In a night of elite competition and Washington-area pageantry, veteran show jumper Laura Kraut claimed her second President’s Cup trophy at the 2025 Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) on Sunday, adding another milestone to one of the region’s most storied equestrian traditions.
A two-time Olympic medalist and longtime member of the U.S. Equestrian Team, Kraut, known for her precision, consistency and partnership with world-class horses, is a veteran of the Washington International.
Kraut’s win came in the marquee Grand Prix event at the Show Place Arena, where she prevailed against a field of top international and U.S. riders that converged for the finale of the 67th annual WIHS.
Founded in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show has been a D.C. tradition for more than six decades, moving from the D.C. Armory to several venues before settling in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, in 2022.
Despite its changing venues, WIHS has maintained its D.C. identity — pairing world-class equestrian competition with family-friendly traditions like Barn Night, which invites local riding groups to cheer on their favorite athletes and Kids’ Day, a free community event offering interactive horse experiences for children.
Friday’s MARS Barn Night, one of the week’s most popular evenings, drew a sold-out crowd as Olympic gold medalist Rodrigo Pessoa of Brazil and his horse Corrie 9, dressed as “Maverick” and a fighter jet from Top Gun, raced to victory.
Pessoa and Corrie topped a field of 23 riders, clocking a blazing 47.32 seconds in the $63,000 FEI Accumulator Costume Class, a fast-paced event where riders earn points over jumps while showing off creative costumes.
The fan-favorite class, featuring elaborate costumes and high-speed jumping, set the tone for a festive night of community contests, junior awards and equestrian entertainment.
For decades, the Washington International Horse Show has served as the nation’s capital’s link to top-tier equestrian sport — blending athleticism, tradition and community spirit.
With champions like Kraut and Pessoa headlining and young riders continuing to rise, the event remains a showcase of excellence just outside the D.C. city limits.
