The 2025 U.S. Dressage Festival of Champions concluded today at HITS Chicago Lamplight Equestrian Center with five new champions earning national titles. Claire Tucker (Lincoln, Neb.) and Finnur claimed the gold medal with a standout performance that earned an impressive 85.000% for the USEF Dressage Seat Medal Final, ages 14 – 18.

(Photo:  Claire Tucker and Finnur. ©Isabelle Whiteside_US Equestrian)

Tucker, who previously earned bronze in 2023, stepped up to the top of the standings this year with a poised and polished test. The victory was even more meaningful after she faced an unexpected challenge the night before the competition.

Stepped On My Foot!

“It feels amazing,” said Tucker. “Most of my plans worked out, but Finn accidentally stepped on my foot last night. My foot may or may not be okay, but luckily it didn’t really set me back today. We pushed through!”

Despite the setback, Tucker and Finnur, her own 2016 Hanoverian gelding (For Romance I x Wapi Yo), delivered a beautiful test that impressed the judges and secured the gold.

Give It Your All

“I didn’t even qualify for the Medal Final last year,” Tucker added. “I was third at regionals, so I wasn’t expecting to come in and win today. I just really hoped I could do my best, and that’s what I did. At the end of the day, you just have to give it your all and it’s up to the judges.”

Tayla Damyanovich (Hibbing, Minn.) captured the silver medal with True Colors, a 2005 Draft Cross gelding owned by Deanna Hertrich, on a score of 82.000%. Damyanovich was only on her fourth ride with the gelding.

He Took Care Of Me

“He’s just a really solid, sturdy guy,” said Damyanovich. “He took care of me, and he’s a lot of fun. This is my third year in the medal finals, and it’s always so much fun competing with such great riders. I feel really proud of everyone and myself, too.”

The bronze medal went to MK Connatser (Dallas, Tex.) and Schnell’s Highlight, her own 2009 Hanoverian gelding (Blue Hors Hotline x Real Dark Lady), who earned 80.000% after a strong, composed ride.

“[Schnell’s Highlight] was kind of running out of gas, but I’m so proud of him, it was great,” said Connatser. “He felt very focused on me. Looking in the warmup, I thought, ‘Oh no, there are so many great riders here.’ To be competing with them and to make it here and medal with these wonderful girls is such a great accomplishment.”

Foundation For Success

The Dressage Seat Medal Final emphasizes the fundamentals of correct seat, position, and use of aids, skills that form the foundation for success at every level of the sport.

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