Devon, Pennsylvania – September 10, 2026 – The prestigious Devon Show Grounds vibrated with anticipation Thursday evening as the final under-the-lights competition of the 2026 season commenced in the iconic Dixon Oval. The highly anticipated $5,000 1.40m Welcome Jumper Stake, generously sponsored by Westover, served as the opening act for the 2026 Devon Fall Classic, drawing a competitive field of thirty elite horse-and-rider combinations. Emerging victorious from a challenging course designed by renowned course designer Manuel Esparza of Mexico, Morgan Ward-Knowlton and Gowe Farms’ impressive Belgian Warmblood stallion, Qornet VD Bisschop, delivered a flawless double-clear performance to secure their first triumph of the classic.
The atmosphere within the Dixon Oval was electric, a familiar ambiance for the historic Devon Horse Show, which boasts a legacy stretching back over a century. For decades, Devon has been a cornerstone of the equestrian calendar, attracting top talent from across the nation and beyond. The Fall Classic, a more recent but equally esteemed addition, has quickly established itself as a crucial event, offering significant prize money and providing a final opportunity for riders to hone their skills and test their mounts before major championships later in the year. The under-the-lights competition format adds a unique spectacle, with the illuminated arena and the hushed crowd creating an intense and captivating environment for both athletes and spectators.
Manuel Esparza, a celebrated figure in international show jumping course design, crafted a demanding yet fair track for the Welcome Stake. The course featured a carefully orchestrated series of challenging verticals, oxers, and combinations, testing the horses’ scope, athleticism, and carefulness, while demanding precision and strategic riding from the athletes. Riders navigated a demanding line of fences, including a liverpool, a demanding one-stride combination, and a final plank vertical that often proved to be the ultimate test of nerve and control. Esparza’s designs are known for their fairness and ability to highlight the strengths of both horse and rider, and this particular course was no exception. The early success of a double-clear round was a testament to the quality of the partnership and the meticulous preparation of the horse.
Morgan Ward-Knowlton’s victory aboard Qornet VD Bisschop, a striking Belgian Warmblood stallion by Cornet Obolensky out of Ilyda VD Bisschop, was a masterclass in precision and control. The pair executed a seamless first round, demonstrating their synergy and the stallion’s impressive athleticism. They then returned for the jump-off, maintaining their composure and speed to deliver another clear round, leaving the competition with no room for error. Their time of 36.872 seconds in the jump-off proved unbeatable, solidifying their position at the top of the leaderboard. This victory marks a significant achievement for Ward-Knowlton and Gowe Farms, setting a positive tone for their campaign at the Devon Fall Classic.
Ward-Knowlton’s performance was particularly noteworthy as she managed to turn the tables on a familiar rival. In last year’s Welcome Stake, she had secured the second-place position with GF Diego, a talented Warmblood gelding also owned by Gowe Farms. This year, her victory aboard Qornet VD Bisschop was a sweet redemption and a demonstration of her evolving partnership with the stallion.
"It feels great! When I saw Laura chasing me again, I was like, ‘Oh no.’ It was amazing,” Ward-Knowlton commented after the awards ceremony, reflecting on the intense competition. Her acknowledgement of Laura Chapot’s strong performance highlights the caliber of the competition and the friendly rivalry that often defines elite equestrian events. The pressure of a jump-off against such formidable opponents is immense, and Ward-Knowlton’s ability to remain focused and execute a winning round speaks volumes about her skill and determination.
Laura Chapot, a consistent force in the show jumping world, earned the red ribbon, securing second place with C&C Willow, a mare owned by Mary Chapot. Chapot delivered a swift and clean jump-off round, demonstrating her prowess and the mare’s competitive spirit. Her performance underscored the depth of talent present at the Devon Fall Classic, with top riders and horses vying for every advantage.
Rounding out the top three was Alex Matz, riding Virginia McNeil’s Omthago VDL. Matz and his mount showcased a strong effort, navigating the challenging course with skill and precision to claim the third-place honors. Their performance further cemented the competitive nature of the class and the high standard of equestrian sport at Devon.
The success of Qornet VD Bisschop in this event is not an isolated incident. The Belgian Warmblood breed is renowned for its athletic prowess, jumping ability, and often, a trainable temperament, making them highly sought-after in the show jumping arena. Stallions like Qornet VD Bisschop, with proven bloodlines such as Cornet Obolensky, a celebrated sire of numerous successful show jumpers, often possess the innate talent and genetic predisposition for high-level competition. The dedication of Gowe Farms in developing and presenting such talented equine athletes contributes significantly to the sport.
Looking ahead, Ward-Knowlton and Qornet VD Bisschop are set to return to the hallowed grounds of the Dixon Oval on Saturday evening. Their sights will be set on the prestigious $25,000 Devon Fall Classic Grand Prix, sponsored by Main Line Health/Bryn Mawr Hospital. This grand prix event represents a significant step up in prize money and competition intensity, often attracting a larger and more diverse international field. A strong performance in the Welcome Stake provides a valuable confidence boost and a solid foundation for the upcoming challenge. The Grand Prix will undoubtedly be a highlight of the weekend, showcasing the pinnacle of show jumping talent.
The Devon Fall Classic continues its action-packed schedule on Friday, September 11th, with the $10,000 1.40m Speed Stake, sponsored by Land Rover Main Line. This speed class format typically rewards efficiency and bold riding, encouraging riders to take calculated risks in pursuit of the fastest clear round. It offers a different tactical challenge compared to the Welcome Stake and Grand Prix, further diversifying the competitive landscape of the event. Spectators can anticipate another exciting evening of equestrian sport as the speed and agility of the horses and riders are put to the test.
The Devon Fall Classic, held annually at the historic Devon Show Grounds, has evolved into a premier equestrian event, building upon the legacy of the Devon Horse Show. Established to provide a fall showcase of top-tier show jumping and hunter disciplines, it attracts a dedicated following of riders, owners, and enthusiasts. The event’s commitment to high-level competition, coupled with its picturesque setting and rich history, makes it a coveted destination for the equestrian community. The sustained success of events like the $5,000 Welcome Jumper Stake underscores the ongoing appeal and importance of Devon as a venue for showcasing equestrian excellence. The careful curation of prize money, course design, and sponsorship partnerships by the organizing committee ensures that the Devon Fall Classic remains a significant fixture on the national and international equestrian calendar. The continued engagement of sponsors like Westover, Main Line Health/Bryn Mawr Hospital, and Land Rover Main Line is vital to the event’s success and its ability to attract top talent.
