How to Score 14 on a Prelim Dressage Test

Jen Carter and Sayyida at Rocking Horse in February. Photo by Samantha Clark.

It’s so much fun to write the weekly EN’s Got Talent series because I get to follow along with the horses after that, and their owners and riders are constantly sending me little updates on how the horses are doing. I feel like I’m along for the ride! I received a very cool email last night from Sean Tennant, who purchased the stunning Trakehner mare Sayyida as a youngster before selling her to Kyle and Jen Carter. I documented Jen’s struggle to build a solid partnership with “Xena” in EN’s Got Talent — Part 1 and Part 2 — but if their performance this weekend at Longwood is any indicator, I’d say they’re on the right track! Jen and Xena scored a 14 on their open prelim dressage test, went clear on cross country and pulled a rail in show jumping to take the win.

The test score sheet, which you can view below, includes 12 9s, as well as 9s for both the rider and impulsion scores. The judge’s comments included “Gorgeous to watch!” and “So uphill and balanced throughout.” Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to track down a video of the test. If you happened to record Jen and Xena laying down a 14 at Longwood, please send the video to [email protected]. Of course, anytime spouses are competing against each other, there’s always a friendly rivalry. Kyle took to Twitter yesterday to document a conversation with the dressage judge, who couldn’t resist getting in on the ribbing. Congrats, Jen! Go Xena!

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