The fourth annual #WeRideTogether Open Jumper Classic drew over 100 entries at Thunderbird Show Park, delivering thrilling competition, generous purses, and a powerful message of change. With 104 entries competing across two heights, the event once again proved that every ride can be a step toward healthier, more compassionate sport.

Harlan Veil Phillips, riding Happy Hour Special, claimed victory in the $2,500 0.90m–1.00m class, adding a #WRT title to an already impressive week. Having been named champion in the 0.90m division earlier in the week, Harlan entered the #WeRideTogether class at her mother’s encouragement—and left with the win.

“My mom said, ‘Harlan, let’s just do it. It’ll be fun,’” she recalled. “We did and came in first.”

Harlan has ridden 17-year-old Happy Hour Special, owned by Sierra Baker, for four years and describes him as the ultimate competitor. “He’s always chill. But in the second that the bell rings, he just goes for it. And he always tries. He’s the best.”

When asked about her favourite thing about her barn—she trains with Joelle Froese of In Stride Equestrian Training in Abbotsford, BC but keeps the pony at her home—Harlan pointed to the people. “Everyone’s just so welcoming and kind.”

In the 1.10m–1.15m division, Clara Plunkett rode to victory on Idoctor Classic Fez, a horse she has owned for nearly two years. Trained by Gary Brewster of Twin Oaks in Richmond, BC, Clara was competing in the #WeRideTogether class for the second time and with a clear goal in mind:

“I wanted to go clear first, because we often have rails on classic day,” Clara explained. “I knew that once we were in the jump off, if I just kept my track clean and kept his usual pace, he would be good to go.”

Clara described her striking chestnut gelding as “super honest” and “super easy in general,” adding that “he enjoys jumping and going fast—he is just perfect and he is down for whatever.”

Speaking of her barn environment, Clara echoed Harley’s sentiment. “It’s super supportive. There’s no competitiveness against each other. Everyone’s just really happy to watch everyone.”

The #WeRideTogether Open Jumper Classic is more than a ribbon—it’s a movement. All proceeds from entry fees and donations directly support #WeRideTogether’s mission to eliminate abuse in all sports at every level, internationally. The weekend also featured a friendship bracelet-making activity at the Hunter Hospitality, where participants connected, created, and learned about healthy sport resources.

As the #WeRideTogether class continues to grow—drawing top riders and passionate newcomers alike—its impact reaches far beyond the show ring. With every entry, every donation, and every conversation, the equestrian community is building a future where every athlete can thrive in safety and respect.

For more information on #WeRideTogether and how to support its mission, visit weridetogether.today.