The Retired Racehorse Project’s Thoroughbred Makeover is a very different kind of horse show for a number of reasons. Perhaps the most obvious difference is the fact that there are 12 different disciples all competing together in one facility, but another notable feature is the scoring in some of the disciples, eventing included.
While the dressage phase was scored in the traditional manner, the jumping phases needed to assess the horse’s training and suitability for the job, rather than just using the usual go/no-go penalty system. Each jumping effort was awarded a score from 0 to 3 and a score from 0 to 10 was given for three Overall Impression categories: Rideability, Between Fences, and Open Gallop. The course also had Novice and Beginner Novice options for each fence — riders could earn bonus points by demonstrating a higher level of training and taking all Novice options.
We’ve rounded up four of the top five cross country rounds for your viewing pleasure. Above, you’ll find the helmet cam for Elisa Wallace and Reloaded, owned by Michelle and Madison Chisholm. Elisa and “Sniper” were third going into the finale, but went on to win the eventing division before being crowned America’s Most Wanted Thoroughbred.
Okay, I twisted the truth a little for the sake of alliteration in the title of this post — I don’t just have helmet cams for you! Here’s a spectator’s view of second place finishers Alison Wilaby and Big Ralph:
Elisa was leading the preliminary round on her other ride, Sharp Decision, owned by Susan Day. She and “Sharpie” slipped to third after the finale. Here’s his cross country round:
Additionally, we have EN’s own Kate Samuels and her own Turkomani who finished in fifth place. Kate and “Turkey” had the best XC score out of the top five finishers! Watch their round here:
