New Podcast: Genay Vaughn lives in Gino's world
A freestyle built on Barry White and Earth, Wind & Fire. A horse who knows he’s the star. A rider chasing down the leaderboard with her family in her corner. Catch up on Genay Vaughn’s unforgettable season and her journey to the Desert Final.
As the US Equestrian Open of Dressage breaks ahead of its final stretch, one of the season’s most captivating partnerships sits in the top five: Genay Vaughn and her partner, Gino. With four wins from four starts, a freestyle rooted in the music of her childhood, and a leaderboard surge that has her closing in on the top, Vaughn's season so far has blended personal expression with elite performance.
Tune in to hear Genay in her own words or catch the highlights below.
Gino: The Star of His Own Show
The bond between Genay and Gino isn’t just strong, it’s the foundation of everything. Their connection goes far beyond training sessions or test scores. It’s the rhythm of their everyday life that builds the deep understanding you see every time they enter the ring.
Since bringing Gino home as a six-year-old, Genay has built their partnership with patience and care. Their original freestyle was designed to keep things comfortable, but with Gino now stronger and more confident, they’re ready to push the boundaries heading into the final.
High Performance Starts at Home
Genay’s team isn’t made up of the usual coaches and grooms - it is her family. Her mom is her trainer, which although it is intense to train, work, and live together, Genay says she wouldn't want it any other way. Her dad, a former Major League Baseball player, brings the high-performance mindset and support to the table. The entire family farm is built on a shared ambition and a relentless drive for success.
It’s a rare dynamic: personal trust mixed with professional expectation. There’s no hiding in a family of competitors and no shortage of motivation, either.
Freestyle with a Personal Beat
One of the most talked-about freestyles on the circuit this season? Genay and Gino’s. Freestyle dressage is all about self-expression, and Genay has mastered that art. Their freestyle music feels as bold and distinctive as the rider herself. The scores speak for themselves - it’s clearly striking a chord with both judges and fans alike.
The Leaderboard
With 80 points, Genay Vaughn currently sits in 5th place on the US Equestrian Open leaderboard, just behind Evelyn Eger and tied contenders in second. Anna Marek leads with 105 points, but it isn’t over yet. If Genay continues her form, the Desert Final could see major movement.
Want to hear from the leader herself?
Check out our podcast with Anna Marek on passion, patience and performance.
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For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, please contact Carly Weilminster at cweilminster@usef.org.
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