Christian Simonson and his horse Indian Rock won the opening test of the USEF dressage Grand Prix National Championship by more than five percentage points, scoring 75.16%. This standalone event, held for the first time in nine years separate from the U.S. dressage Festival of Champions at World Equestrian Center–Ocala, serves as a key selection opportunity for the U.S. team for the world championships in Aachen, Germany. Simonson, who recently earned silver at the Zen Elite FEI dressage World Cup Final, praised the strong partnership and communication he shares with his 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood, Rocky.

Ellesse Gundersen took second place aboard Quintessential 4, a stallion she bred and developed over 12 years, highlighting the significance of their long journey together. Meagan Davis finished third with Toronto Lightfoot, noting the strong camaraderie among competitors and the trust she shares with her horse. The championship continues with the Grand Prix Special and Grand Prix Freestyle tests, with full results and live streaming available through USEF Network.