Upper Marlboro, MD – (October 1, 2025) – Lila Abboud, 15, made her first visit to the Capital Challenge Horse Show a memorable one as the young rider jumped into the lead to win the Show Circuit Magazine National Children’s Medal Finals on Sunday afternoon in Upper Marlboro, MD.
The 10th grader made the trip down from New York to compete in the Show Circuit Medal Finals, but didn’t have high expectations for her self. She said, “I’m really excited to have won this class. I came in not expecting to win. I was told to do my best and have fun. I was just excited to be coming and to qualify and everything.”
Children’s equitation riders from across the country competed all year to qualify for the Finals, but only the best 31 arrived at the Capital Challenge Horse Show to try and vie for the title. In the first round of the Finals Taylor Harris of Orange County, California, led the pack with a score of 82.2.
When the top ten returned for a shortened course designed by Michael Rheinheimer, Abboud held the fourth-place position. She went on to post an 82.7 in the second round. Nerves got the best of the final three riders and none of them could score out of the 60’s. No one could come close to Abboud’s two-round total of 162.9.
Abboud rides Sommersby an 11-year-old Hanoverian who is an impressive 17.3 hands tall. She leased the big gelding for a year before buying him in March. “He’s amazing to ride,” said Abboud. “He’s really smooth, and he’s a lot of fun.”
Abboud plans on moving up to the 3’6” equitation classes next year under the tutelage of her trainer Kim Jones, and is looking forward to moving on with “Wes.” She said, “I haven’t done 3’6” at shows yet. I’ll move up to the 3’6 with him. I love him.”
The young rider attends Rye Country Day School in Rye, NY.
The 13th annual Capital Challenge Horse Show will run through October 8th at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro, MD. Aside from the equestrian action running in two rings, the horse show also offers some of the best in equestrian shopping. The shopping areas are located inside and out, with a new Boutique Mall located on the concourse level. With over fifty shops on the premises early holiday shopping is made easy. You’ll find unique gift items, artwork, the finest jewelry, clothing, footwear and a variety of quality equestrian equipment.
As always there is no charge for admission and parking is free. The schedule and results can be found on the Capital Challenge website: www.capitalchallenge.org . For more information on the Capital Challenge Horse Show call (301) 260-2467 prior to the show or (301) 952-7944 during the show.
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