Athena Lekkas Acquires Valdes Z as New Competition Mount, Debuts with Double Clear at Winter Equestrian Festival
Antonio Martinez and Athena Lekkas with Valdes Z (Photo by Katherina Sciuto Photography)
Wellington, FL (February 24, 2026) – Athena Lekkas has taken over the ride on Valdes Z (VIGO D'ARSOUILLES x VALIENTE), a 2010 Zangersheide gelding who has competed through the 1.60M 5-star level. The partnership, made possible by her parents, George and Ursula Lekkas and the team at AMG Equestrian, marks an exciting new chapter in Lekkas' show jumping career.
Lekkas and Valdes Z made their debut together at this year's prestigious Winter Equestrian Festival, delivering a double clear effort in WEF 5's $15,000 1.35M Jumper Classic. The pair ultimately finished 6th out of more than 50 combinations. Their partnership has continued to grow under the tutelage of AMG Equestrian's Antonio Martinez, who was also a catalyst in bringing Valdes and Athena together.
The bay Zangersheide gelding is by the 2010 WEG Gold Medal winning Belgian Warmblood stallion Vigo d’Arsouilles out of a KWPN mare, and has international show jumping experience through the 1.60M level, including a World Cup qualifier. With such an extensive history in the show ring, Lekkas has been focusing on learning how best to ride Valdes for the past two weeks with plans to return to WEF Week 8. With a wonderful combination of sweetness and scope, Valdes has already become favorite of the Lekkas family, and being Valdes' rider is a major milestone for Lekkas, who stated:
"Valdes Z is an incredible partner—brave, athletic, and a true competitor in the ring. I felt an immediate connection with him, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Antonio and the entire AMG Equestrian team for their guidance and for entrusting me with such a special horse, and to my parents and sponsors for their unwavering support over the years."
Elpida comes from the ancient Greek word ἐλπίς (elpis) – the personification and spirit of hope in Greek mythology
Inspired by her own Greek and Puerto Rican heritage, as well as her passion for show jumping, Athena Lekkas competes under her brand, Elpida Equestrian. As a 19-year-old college student, Lekkas is a determined rider whose goal is to ride at the Grand Prix level. Her newly acquired competition mount, Valdes Z, is a Zangersheide gelding by Vigo d’Arsouilles, out of a KWPN mare by Ircorlando. Athena and Valdes are aiming to accomplish her FEI goal under the tutelage of Antonio Martinez of AMG Equestrian.
Follow Athena and Elpida Equestrian on Instagram (@elpida_equestrian)!
All photos courtesy of Equinium Sports Marketing LLC unless otherwise noted
Media Contact:
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.Equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
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