The second day of the inaugural Baran Global Hunter Classic at the Longines Tops International Arena unfolded with all the grandeur and competitive tension befitting a premier international event. Set against the expansive Valkenswaard grounds, Day 2 brought a dramatic shift in momentum as elite hunter athletes took center stage in the Classic Hunter Round—a test of both polish and poise.
Leading that charge was veteran equestrian John French, who guided his partner, Crystal Blue, to a dazzling 93-point performance. French’s mastery, underlined by his ability to maintain rhythm and clarity on a challenging, wide-open course, marked a pivotal moment not just for his team, but for the tone of the competition as a whole. The terrain demanded a high level of accuracy, with long, bending lines and broader space than what many competitors are accustomed to navigating.
Though the setting may have been more familiar to jumpers, the hunters rose to the occasion with remarkable adaptability. French himself acknowledged the uniqueness of the venue and the opportunity it provided to elevate the visibility of the hunter division on a global platform. His sentiment mirrored the collective pride of the hunter community in taking part in such a showcase event.
Close on his heels was the ever-consistent Faith Schuttemeyer aboard Juan Carlos, who for the second day running claimed the runner-up spot with a polished 91.67. Teammate Geoffrey Hesslink wasn’t far behind with Paisley Park, adding another stylish ride and 91.33 to Team Hesslink Williams’ impressive tally. Their consistent scoring has kept their team atop the leaderboard, a strong position heading into the final day.
In a display of depth and talent, the leaderboard’s top six featured powerhouse names including Caroline Ingalls (Concerto), Emily Esau Williams (Star Quality), and Lillie Keenan (Spoken), each bringing a blend of technical brilliance and aesthetic finesse.
Team standings now reflect the cumulative weight of the first two phases—Under Saddle and Classic Hunter—with Team Hesslink Williams leading the charge at 91.43 points. Team French follows closely at 88.80, while California Rose and Esau Williams teams remain within striking distance. With the final and most influential Handy Round looming, where half the total score will be decided, there is still everything to play for.
The Handy Round is known to favor bold choices and calculated risks. Riders will need to weave precision with innovation, using tight turns and assertive approaches to leave a lasting impression. It’s the phase that has rewritten leaderboards in the past, and with margins this narrow, tomorrow’s performance will determine who walks away with the very first Baran Global Hunter Classic title.
Spectators, fans, and equestrian enthusiasts alike are eagerly waiting for Saturday’s showdown, where stories will be completed, legacies cemented, and one team will etch their name in history.
