All Eyes on Dublin: Vale and Carissimo Return in Top Form
Fresh off a breakthrough Grand Prix win in Dinard, Aaron Vale and Carissimo 25 head to the Dublin Horse Show carrying momentum, confidence and a proven track record on Irish soil.
Back Where It All Clicked
Last year, Dublin was a defining stop on the calendar for Vale and Carissimo. Not only did they help Team USA clinch the prestigious Aga Khan Nations Cup, they also landed a podium finish in the Rolex Grand Prix, firmly establishing themselves as contenders on the European five-star circuit. Now, they return with even more firepower and a major new title under their belts.
Dinard Breakthrough Ignites the Season
Just weeks ago, Vale and Carissimo delivered a sensational performance in the Rolex Grand Prix of Dinard. Last to jump in the decisive round, they produced the only sub-39-second time of the jump-off, stopping the clock at 38.77 to claim their first ever CSI5* Grand Prix victory as a partnership.
That win was the culmination of persistence and form: it marked their 33rd round together at the five-star 1.60m level and their fourth international win overall. Statistically and emotionally, it was a milestone and one that rocketed Carissimo 25 into the Top 15 US-based horses by Elo rating, now sitting at 718.
Dublin Awaits: Can Lightning Strike Twice?
Their return to the RDS is more than a homecoming, it’s a title defense. After playing a key role in the U.S. victory in last year’s Nations Cup and finishing third in the Grand Prix, Vale and Carissimo are uniquely equipped for success in Dublin’s atmospheric main arena.
With form peaking at the right time, this pair could be the ones to watch in both the Nations Cup and Sunday’s Rolex Grand Prix. Few partnerships combine experience, precision, and current momentum quite like they do and they’ve already shown they can thrive under Dublin’s spotlight.
The Verdict
In a sport where timing is everything, Vale and Carissimo are hitting their stride just as Dublin comes into view. Whether they can repeat, or even surpass, the magic of last summer remains to be seen. But one thing’s clear: they’re not just returning to a familiar stage. They’re coming back as serious threats.