At The Event at TerraNova in Myakka City, Florida, the cross-country phase proved pivotal for the CCI4-L, CCI4-S, and CCI3-L competitors, with several riders making significant moves on the leaderboard. Phillip Dutton, initially leading in the CCI4-L with Possante, was forced to withdraw after a fall, allowing Sydney Elliott and her 15-year-old Oldenburg gelding QC Diamantaire to take the lead following a fault-free round. Elliott, who has been steadily improving their dressage scores over the years and recently returned from a year-long hiatus due to surgery, praised the challenging but fair course designed by Alec Lochore, noting their strong partnership and excitement for the final stadium jumping phase.

Hayley Frielick also made a remarkable comeback, moving from fifth to second place with her Irish Sport Horse, Sportsfield Lumiere, after a double-clear cross-country round. Frielick, who only resumed riding a few months ago following a broken leg, credited her support team for helping maintain their dressage form and highlighted how the flatter terrain of TerraNova suited their style. Both riders demonstrated resilience and skill, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the competition.