Cayman Islands Young Dressage Stars Shine on International Stage in Mexico

13-year-old Caleigh Corbin makes Caymanian history as she and Sierra Martin fly the flag at CDI-W Mexico 2026

Two of the Cayman Islands’ rising equestrian stars, Caleigh Corbin and Sierra Martin, have proudly represented their country at the prestigious CDI-W Mexico 2026, held from 23–25 October at Rancho St. Vincent in the State of Mexico, Mexico.

Competing against international riders in the challenging Borrowed Horses Programme, both young athletes demonstrated determination, talent and the growing strength of Cayman Islands dressage on the world stage.

For 13-year-old Caleigh Corbin, the competition marked a particularly special milestone — becoming the youngest Caymanian rider to compete and place at an international CDI competition.

Caleigh Corbin Makes History at Just 13

Caymanian rider, Caleigh qualified for the international competition in June 2026 and wasted no time making her presence felt.

Riding Noble Valentina Nodin, Caleigh delivered an outstanding performance in the Children’s division, securing second place in the FEI Children’s Preliminary B Test with a score of 69.000%.

She followed this with a fourth-place finish in the Children’s Team Championship Test, scoring an impressive 69.125%.

Caleigh was also part of a four-rider team that claimed second place overall, competing alongside leading US Grand Prix dressage rider Kevin Kohmann.

Her achievements in Mexico cap off an exceptional year for the young Caymanian.

Earlier in 2026, Caleigh was selected for the Cayman Islands team that won the Caribbean Equestrian Association (CEA) competition, where she also achieved a high-point score for her country.

Under the guidance of Cayman Coach Jessica McTaggart, Caleigh continues to demonstrate that age is no barrier to international success.

Sierra Martin Continues to Break New Ground

Fellow Caymanian rider Sierra Martin also proudly represented the Cayman Islands in Mexico, competing in the Junior division aboard Bohemio de Peña.

Competing on an unfamiliar horse against an international field, Sierra demonstrated adaptability, perseverance and valuable competitive experience.

Mexico was another important milestone in what has already been a groundbreaking year for Sierra.

Earlier in 2026, she became the first Caymanian rider to qualify for the North American Youth Championships (NAYC), following strong performances at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida.

Coach McTaggart: “These Girls Are Showing the World What Cayman Can Do!”

Cayman Coach Jessica McTaggart expressed her pride in both young athletes and their achievements.

“I couldn’t be prouder of Caleigh and Sierra! These girls are proving that coming from a small island doesn’t mean having small ambitions. Competing internationally on borrowed horses is a huge challenge. You have very little time to build a partnership, and then you have to go out and perform against talented riders from around the world.

For Caleigh to make Caymanian history at just 13 years old, competing and placing at an international CDI is fantastic. She has had an incredible year, and this is another exciting step forward.

Sierra continues to push boundaries too. Having already made history by qualifying for NAYC, she is gaining invaluable experience and showing real determination.

What excites me most is not just their results, but their attitude, work ethic and willingness to rise to every challenge. These girls have bright futures, and they are showing the world what Cayman can do!”

— Jessica McTaggart, Cayman Islands Dressage Coach

Small Island. Big Ambitions. Bright Futures.

The Borrowed Horses Programme offers a unique test of horsemanship, requiring riders to quickly develop a connection with unfamiliar horses before competing at international level.

For young Caymanian athletes, opportunities like these are invaluable — building confidence, experience and the skills needed to succeed on the international stage.

The Cayman Islands Equestrian Federation (CIEF) congratulates Caleigh and Sierra on their achievements and recognises the dedication of their coaches, families and supporters who have helped make these opportunities possible.

From making history at 13 to breaking barriers in international dressage, Caleigh Corbin and Sierra Martin are proving that Cayman Islands equestrian sport has an exciting future.