WEF XI: First International Victory in the CSI4* for Alex Matz
Wellington, Florida – March 22, 2026 — A defining moment in the career of American rider Alex Matz, who, aboard Junior Kannan, secured their first international victory together in the prestigious $200,000 WeatherTech CSI4* Grand Prix, bringing Week 11 of the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) to a thrilling close.
Under the spotlight of the International Arena, during the penultimate week of the circuit, Matz delivered a performance that combined tactical intelligence, composure, and an increasingly refined partnership with his 12-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding.
A decisive jump-off performance
Course designer Andy Christiansen set a technical track that saw nine combinations advance to the jump-off. Riding late in the order, Matz capitalized on his advantageous position, executing a smooth yet assertive round that stopped the clock at 35.79 seconds—a time that ultimately proved unbeatable.
Fellow American McKayla Langmeier, aboard Riesling van de Gaathoeve, produced a strong effort in 36.59 seconds to secure second place, along with the Leading Lady Rider Award for Week 11. Jordan’s Ibrahim Barazi, riding Joie De Vigo R.T., completed the podium in 37.04 seconds.
“Junior is feeling phenomenal,” Matz commented. “He actually jumped even better in the jump-off than in the first round. That gave me the confidence to take a few calculated risks.”
A partnership reaching maturity
The victory marks a significant milestone for a partnership three years in the making. Carefully managed throughout the season, Junior Kannan has demonstrated remarkable consistency, peaking at precisely the right moment.
“I’ve used him sparingly this season,” Matz explained. “After a busy 2025, the plan was to bring him along at the right pace—and today confirmed that strategy.”
As the son of Olympic team silver medalist Michael Matz (Atlanta 1996), Alex continues to carve out his own path at the highest level of the sport, balancing legacy with personal ambition.
The team behind the win
Equally instrumental to the result was the work of groom Cesar Gonzalez, whose meticulous care earned him the Double H Farm Grooms Award and a $500 bonus.
Looking ahead to Rolex Finale Week
Following the retirement of his former top mount Cashew CR at the end of 2025, Matz has shifted focus toward developing a new string of promising horses. Alongside Junior Kannan, he is bringing along several young talents, including 7- and 8-year-olds stepping up to higher levels.
Next on the agenda is one of the most anticipated events of the season: the $1 million Rolex US Equestrian Open Grand Prix, set for March 28 during the final week of WEF.
“Cashew was an incredible partner, and his retirement wasn’t easy,” Matz reflected. “But I have a group of exciting young horses coming up, and I’m optimistic about what the future holds.”
WEF heads toward its grand finale
As Week 12 approaches, the Winter Equestrian Festival prepares for its grand finale, reaffirming its status as one of the premier stages in international show jumping. Following this breakthrough victory, Alex Matz firmly establishes himself among the riders to watch under the lights of Wellington’s iconic “Saturday Night Lights.”
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