McLain Ward

McLain Ward is an American show jumper and a five-time Olympic medalist, recognized for his extensive career in equestrian sports. After becoming the youngest rider in history to win the United States Equestrian Federation’s Show Jumping Derby in 1990, McLain Ward went on to secure the USET Medal Finals just ten weeks later, making him the first and youngest rider to claim both prestigious titles in the same year. This early dominance set the stage for a remarkable career, earning him the nickname ‘The Kid.’ Ward continued his ascent, winning the Hampton Classic Grand Prix consecutively in 1998 and 1999, a first for any rider-horse combination. By 1999, he also became the youngest rider in history to reach the $1 million prize money mark in Grand Prix competition.

Together, they claimed two Grand Slam Majors: the Rolex CSI5 GP at Geneva in December 2022 and the Rolex CSI5 GP at the Dutch Masters in early 2023, before HH Azur concluded her competitive career in 2023. McLain Ward operates his extensive equestrian program from Castle Hill Farm, maintaining facilities in Brewster, NY, and Wellington, FL. His dedication to the sport continues to place him at the forefront of show jumping, consistently competing at the highest levels of international competition.