Thermal, Calif. – October 31, 2026 – Breanna Bunevacz made it two in a row at Desert International Horse Park on Friday, October 30, winning the 3′ DIHP Junior/Amateur Equitation Challenge, sponsored by Butet, for the second consecutive year. This year, she notched the win with an overall score of 176 – a full 10 points ahead of the field – in her first time showing Contini XO, owned by Hanna Mauritzson.
Bunevacz’s second win in a row also made it back-to-back wins of the $5,000 Trainer Bonus for Bunevacz’s trainer Tasha Visokay.
Breanna Bunevacz and Contini XO. Photo by High Desert Sport Photo
It was at Visokay’s suggestion that the pairing of Bunevacz and Contini XO came together for the special class.
“She said, ‘This could be a really fun opportunity for you,’” explained Bunevacz of acquiring the ride on the 8-year-old American Warmblood stallion. “I’m really grateful that [his owner] gave me the chance to show Tini.”
Bunevacz was one of 20 riders to contest the eq challenge class held during National Sunshine Series 1, presented by Kubota. The three-phase class, held this year in the Grand Eq Arena, is designed to test the complete equitation rider over three phases. Competitors first performed a short pattern on the flat, designed by the judge and course designer, with work at the walk, trot and canter. The second phase moved to a 3’ course, with additional tests also built into the track. A third, optional phase gave top riders one more chance to show their skills, with the top four called back on Friday afternoon. The class was open to junior and adult riders not jumping above 3’3″ at Sunshine 1, and was judged by Constance Tramm Hunt.
Breanna Bunevacz and Contini XO. Photo by High Desert Sport Photo
For Bunevacz, the flat phase offered something new.
“It was my first time doing an NCEA-style flat phase, which I was very excited for,” said Bunevacz, of Calabasas, California. “I didn’t want to be timid, and I didn’t want to stress him out. He was just really good, and his transitions were really great.
“[Over fences] I just wanted to get a really good pace, but with connection, because he likes to ride with that support. He was really, really great,” continued Bunevacz.
Evie Becky and Understudy finished second with a score of 166, while Cassandra Hensley and Pop Up claimed third on 159.5.
For Bunevacz, the challenge class was also a warm-up for the USHJA Gladstone Cup Equitation Classic for Amateurs on Sunday.
“This was our first class, so we didn’t really put any pressure on ourselves. We just wanted to have fun, and it turned out really great,” concluded Bunevacz. “I feel ready and excited for Sunday!”
For complete results of the 3′ DIHP Junior/Amateur Equitation Challenge, sponsored by Butet, click here.