photo credit: Shawn McMillen Photography
Lily Sonneborn of Washington, D.C., rode Spencer, a 12-year-old Dutch Warmblood Gelding, to win the Junior Hunter 3’3” 15 & Under Section B division during the final weekend of the 2024 Capital Challenge Horse Show, held at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro. Sonneborn and Spencer finished first, second and fifth over fences to also claim the Junior Hunter 3’3” Championship. Sonneborn’s stellar performance at the Capital Challenge earned her the Best Junior 3’3” Rider Award, sponsored by Deer Creek Farm, LLC.
This was Sonneborn’s second year competing at the Capital Challenge after only learning to ride three years ago. She currently trains with Geoffrey Hesslink and Brendan Williams but also rides locally at Rolling Acres Farm in Brookeville.
“It’s incredible to be grand champion,” she said. “This was such a bucket list item for me; I never thought this would happen. I’m so lucky to have my team behind me and these incredible horses that make my dreams come true. My trainers work so hard to make everything happen. I’m kind of in shock. I never thought this would happen, so I’m so grateful.”
