Erynn Ballard Comes Full Circle at the Royal Horse Show with Victory in the $45,000 Strength & Speed Welcome

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14/11/2025

Toronto, Ontario – Canadian Olympian Erynn Ballard of Tottenham, ON, opened international show jumping competition at the Royal Horse Show with a decisive victory in the $45,000 International Strength & Speed Welcome, riding Let’s Fly to the top spot on Wednesday, November 12, at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto.

The CSI5*-W opener — a “power and speed” course designed by Germany’s Olaf Petersen Jr. — required riders to jump eight initial fences before immediately advancing into the speed phase upon a fault-free start. Let’s Fly lived up to his name, delivering unmatched quickness across the ground and securing a winning time of 26.85 seconds.

“What a horse, to walk in and win on his first time out at The Royal,” said a beaming Ballard of the nine-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Fly x Phin Phin), owned by Roaring Fork Farms.

Let’s Fly was developed by Ballard in partnership with Ilan Ferder, and the gelding is ultimately destined to join the string of young rider Djuna Lauder, who is currently studying at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland but has clear ambitions to compete at the five-star level.

International Podium: Ireland and Israel Close Behind

From a competitive field representing eight nations, Ireland’s Conor Swail finished a close second with Casturano, clocking 27.49 seconds, while Daniel Bluman of Israel secured third place aboard Rebelline de Kwakenbeek, crossing the timers in 27.95 seconds.

A Meaningful Return for Ballard

For 45-year-old Ballard, the win was especially poignant. The Royal Horse Show has always been her “home” event — she first competed here in 1988 on a small pony. Returning after a five-year absence, she marked her comeback with a memorable victory.

“It was a lovely homecoming,” she said. “The show fit well into our schedule this year, and with the World Cup Final on the horizon, this was an important stop.”

The $280,000 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Toronto, held on Saturday evening, will award crucial qualifying points toward the 2026 FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final in Fort Worth, Texas.

“I have the right horses right now,” Ballard added. “They’re an exceptional group, and with the Final being held in North America, it’s absolutely on our radar.”

A Victory Shared with Family

Ballard’s triumph came at a significant moment for her family: the 2025 Royal Horse Show marks the final competition appearance for Looking Back Farm, founded by her parents Sandi and Dave Ballard, who are retiring after a distinguished career developing horses and riders. Her late grandfather, Bob Ballard, a Jump Canada Hall of Famer, was also a regular Royal competitor and represented Canada in numerous Nations Cup events.

“It’s special to win for them and to add another Royal memory. We’ve had great ones here, from small ponies all the way to five-star horses.”

Carl J. Dow Memorial Award Presented to the McKee Family

Opening night also featured the presentation of the Carl J. Dow Memorial Award, honoring the legacy of a longtime horseman and dedicated Royal volunteer. The McKee family, whose connection with the Fair dates back to its earliest days, were recognized in 2025. From founding member John Arnold McKee to multiple generations serving in leadership and volunteer roles, the family’s commitment to The Royal remains strong.

Upcoming Events and Ticket Information

International CSI5*-W show jumping continues through Saturday, November 15, featuring top riders from around the world. All competitions can be streamed live on FEI.TV.

A limited number of hospitality options remain available, including the Royal Terrace and private Sky Suites in the Coliseum. Tickets for the 2025 Royal Horse Show can be purchased via the official website.

Results – $45,000 CSI5-W Strength & Speed Welcome*

Wednesday, November 12, 2025