Shannon Sullivan and Downtown’s Main Event Conclude Equifest with winning the $50,000 Summit Max Grand Prix at HITS Chicago.

Wayne, Ill. – August 13, 2023 – The Lamplight Equifest Series may be concluding this week, but that does not mean the action has slowed down. Speedy efforts were made in the Grand Prix Stadium for the victory in Sunday’s $50,000 Summit Max Grand Prix. Shannon Sullivan and her mount, Downtown’s Main Event, were too fast to be caught, during the jump-off they crossed the timers double clear and clocking in at an impressive 34.57 seconds. Following right behind Sullivan was Tiffany Hammock with her mount, Ghana FS Z, who claimed second with a double clear and a jump-off time of 35.18 seconds. Rounding out the top three in this very competitive class was Caelinn Leahy and her veteran partner, the Gray Man. The duo went fault-less with a jump-off time of 35.21 seconds.

Shannon Sullivan and Down Town's Main Event. Photographed by Alison Hartwell.

“I imported this gelding [Downtown’s Main Event] from Poland.” Explained Sullivan after her win, “He loves his job and he's kind of quirky. He's got serious separation anxiety, so he's got to have a buddy with him at all times.”

Downtown’s Main Event is a very special horse to Sullivan and the pair have garnered an impressive resume together including winning the $25,000 HITS Grand Prix during Equifest I as well as taking home fourth in the $25,000 HITS Grand Prix during Equifest III.

Tiffany Hammock and Ghana FS Z. Photographed by Alison Hartwell.

“He's a funny guy, but he's the best. He loves his job and the bigger the class, the better. He's like my unicorn.” Sullivan added, “I was hoping to get one big win under our belt this summer. So finishing out Equifest with this blue was very special to me.”

Sullivan spent a lot of time at HITS Chicago this summer, and she expressed her enjoyment at the boutique venue concluding, “It's just such a beautiful showground. The staff is always super friendly.  The rings are very efficient and you're never waiting. My horses love the footing. They love the Grand Prix ring, it's nice and inviting, even for the ones that are just a bit spooky!”

Although Equifest III came to a close the action at Lamplight Equestrian Center will continue through September as a part of the HITS Chicago Series.

Caelinn Leahy and The Gray Man. Photographed by Alison Hartwell.