Lance Cooper secured his first major Open cutting title at the Breeder’s Invitational Open Derby on May 16, 2026. He rode Secretsarising to a score of 220, earning $70,833 for new owner Alvin Fults.
For 25-year-old Cooper, this win was a significant milestone in his cutting career. He had grown up in the sport alongside his Hall-of-Fame father, Michael Cooper. After competing as a Non-Pro for years, Cooper transitioned to training professionally out of his father’s program in 2021.
Despite multiple Intermediate Open titles and Open finals qualifications, Cooper had yet to clinch a major Open win. However, everything fell into place for him at the Breeder’s Invitational.
Throughout the competition, Cooper and Secretsarising displayed consistency and skill, marking a 217.5 in the first go and a 221 in the second. They ultimately claimed the title in the finals, overcoming a highly competitive field.
Cooper described the event as one of the toughest shows of the year, emphasizing the challenge of making it to the finals. He expressed his gratitude for the win, highlighting the validation it brought to his career.
Secretsarising, affectionately known as “Kevin” in the barn, played a crucial role in Cooper’s success. Despite his unassuming appearance, the little gelding showcased remarkable power and skill in the show pen.
Reflecting on his victory, Cooper noted that his biggest lesson was learning to let go of the pressure to perform. By focusing on simply doing his job without expectations, he was able to achieve incredible results.
Overall, the Breeder’s Invitational marked a breakthrough moment for Cooper, boosting his confidence and earning him respect among his peers in the cutting world.