THE RIDGE AT WELLINGTON GROVES
Carly Anthony clears the Kids Cancer Foundation vertical in the 1.20M division at The Ridge at Wellington Groves. PHOTO COURTESY EQUINIUM SPORTS MARKETING
RIDERS ARE BUILDING AND EXPANDING FOUNDATIONS AT BOUTIQUE LOCAL HORSE SHOW BY HOLLY JOHNSON
The Ridge at Wellington Groves is a show designed for the horse, and by default their riders. The Ridge offers customized offerings to benefit not just the day-to-day show schedules of its competitors, but also the long-term success of the sport. Founded by U.S. Olympian Nona Garson and Grand Prix rider and trainer George D’Ambrosio, The Ridge’s roots span back decades to Garson’s early days riding in New Jersey. After she realized her Olympic dreams, she and D’Ambrosio began hosting the Turf Tour in 2012, a weekly series that toured the many manicured polo fields in Wellington, offering show jumping classes up to Grand Prix. As a great
training ground for everything from young riders to Olympic athletes — including eventers, who loved getting their horses out for show jumping on the grass — the Turf Tour developed a strong following that began to grow beyond the limits of its white-fenced show arenas. After their final years jumping on the turf at Polo West and Black Watch Farm, the show’s owners sold their smaller farm and purchased a 20-plusacre farm between Southern and Okeechobee boulevards, just north of Wellington. With space to spread out and the basic framework for a horse show, they began upgrades that foreshadowed what the events would be-
come: a show designed for horse and rider to grow and develop. These upgrades included an oversized main arena and a second arena with the latest footing, lights and jump materials; wide driveways and long lanes for horse trailers to easily enter, park and exit; permanent high-end tent stabling; and multiple fenced pastures, wash racks, water access points and grazing areas. But the real upgrade at The Ridge is the effort that has been placed on events since those first shows on the Turf Tour: making shows accessible, affordable and welcoming, while providing the atmosphere and feel of a world-class venue. The result is a WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE | February 2026 31