UPPERVILLE, Va., June 5, 2026 — Amanda Steege and Charyl Olsten’s Lafitte de Muze added another chapter to their Upperville legacy on Thursday, capturing the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby for the third consecutive year at the 2026 Upperville Colt & Horse Show, presented by MARS EQUESTRIAN™. The pair topped a competitive field beneath the oaks, once again showcasing the style, scope, and consistency that have made them one of the most successful derby partnerships in recent Upperville history.
“When I came out, Jimmy Torano said that Lafitte looks better than ever; he’s like a fine wine and gets better with age,” said Steege of Califon, N.J., with a smile.
She continued, “He’s always gone fantastically in this derby, and I really enjoy showing here because of the large number of spectators who come to cheer us on. There aren’t many places where you get that kind of crowd in such an intimate setting. When he does one of his extra-special jumps, I can hear the crowd say, ‘Oooh! Ahh!’ and I really enjoy that part of showing here.”
Steege was the final rider to go in the classic round, earning scores of 91 and 92 from the judges, along with four high-option bonus points from each panel, to take the lead. Returning for the handy round, she and Lafitte confidently answered the questions of the course beneath Upperville’s storied oak trees. Scores of 92 and 92, combined with an additional 14 high-option bonus points, secured the victory and completed their third consecutive derby triumph.
Evan Coluccio of Marshall, Va., rode Mary Antonini’s Dorian Grey to second place on a score of 368, while Kate Conover guided Privet Farm, LLC’s Proud to Be to third with 358 points.
For full results and livestream access, visit www.upperville.com.
Sponsors of the 2026 Upperville Colt & Horse Show presented by MARS EQUESTRIAN™ include Ethel M. Chocolates, Dr. Betsee Parker, Michael Smith, Lugano, The Salamander Collection, B&D Builders, Markel Insurance, Delta Air Lines and the Postage Stamp Farm Foundation.
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About the Upperville Colt & Horse Show
The Upperville Colt & Horse Show, also known as the Upperville Horse Show and UCHS, is the oldest horse show in the U.S. Founded in 1853 as a one-day show to encourage better breeding and care of horses, the show has grown to a weeklong tradition with thousands of equestrian and equine pairs competing in a variety of competitive disciplines. Many of the continent’s top professional riders as well as amateurs compete under the spectacular setting featuring the famous oaks at Grafton Farm—the same location as 1853. UCHS is a 501(c)3 charitable organization that supports local area charities, including the Churches of Upperville Outreach Program. For complete schedules and up-to-the-minute results, visit the website at www.upperville.com.