Mill Spring, NC - August 8, 2025 - Rekindling the competitive spirit at Tryon International, John Brown (Mill Spring, NC) piloted Ballon Bleu to victory in the $5,000 LeMieux Welcome Stake. Juan Ortiz (Loxahatchee, FL) entered the ring on his own 2016 Holsteiner gelding Cool More Hero (Casall Ask x Unknown) and earned second place with 37.684 seconds and four jumping faults in the jump off. The 2018 Selle Francais mare, Ines Shanti, (Unknown x Quinta De L'othain Z) owned by Agathe Heurteux and piloted by Florian Ferry (Wiliston, SC) received third place with a time of 38.116 seconds and four jumping faults. 

August at Tryon International is full of fun for families, groups, kids, equestrian enthusiasts and more. From fitness events and competitions to live music, sporting events, and indoor fun to help you stay cool this summer, there’s something for everyone at Tryon International! 

Wrapping up the Tryon Summer Finale 1, Penny Brennan (Ocala, FL) aboard Vertigo Delorme (Chacco Blue x Faretana) claimed a win in the $15,000 1.30m Mini Prix at Tryon International Equestrian Center & Resort (Tryon International). Earning reserve honors with a jump off time of 35.337 seconds was Doug Payne (Rougemont, NC) and The Windwood Group’s 2008 Dutch Warmblood stallion Damokles (Ukato x Orindy). Rounding out the podium with third place was the 2011 Holsteiner gelding Vintage (Verdi TN x Wanda VI) owned by Blue Trim LLC and rider Juan Ortiz (Loxahatchee, FL), completing the jump off in 37.262 seconds.