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Abby Powell
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Abby Powell

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About Abby Powell

Abby Powell is a native of Northeastern Massachusetts who splits her time between commuting into Boston for work and caring for and riding her rescue Mustang x Arab mare, Maggie.

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Volunteer Nation: 4 Events that Need Your Help This Weekend

By on Aug 13, 2020 1:00 pm -

From New York to Florida and everywhere a couple places in between up and down the East Coast, there’s an event out there that needs YOUR boots on the ground! Got a couple hours on your hands lately? (C’mon, who doesn’t?) Put ’em to good use and help your sport keep on keepin’ on.

We’ve compiled some resources on volunteering with COVID-19 regulations in mind. We’ll reference this list each week in Volunteer Nation, so take a few moments to familiarize yourself with what’s new and different.

COVID-19 Resources for Eventers
Volunteers Adapt to the New Normal
Volunteers Weigh In on New COVID-19 Protocols

As always, you can earn merit points when you donate your time through the USEA’s Volunteer Incentive Program. Registering to volunteer through EventingVolunteers.com makes it easy and seamless to both find a job and shift as well as learn what your role will entail.

Event: Full Gallop Farm August HT
Dates: Sunday, August 16th
Address: 3828 Wagener Rd, Aiken, SC, 29805
Position(s) Available: XC Finish Timer, XC Jump Judge, XC Score Runner, XC Start Timer, XC Starter, XC Warm Up, Dressage Bit Check, Dressage Scribe, Dressage Steward, Hospitality Helper, Floater, Volunteer Check-In & Information, Parking Steward, Office Help, Scorers, SJ In Gate, SJ Jump Crew

Event: Genesee Valley Riding and Driving Club H.T.
Dates: Saturday, August 15 and Sunday, August 16
Address: 4128 Roots Tavern Road, Geneseo, NY, 14454
Position(s) Available: Please text Carol Kozlowski at (585)-317-6906

Event: Ocala Summer H.T.
Dates: Today though Monday, August 17
Address: 11008 S Highway 475, Ocala, FL, 34480
Position(s) Available: XC Decorator, XC Jump Judge, XC Score Runner, Dressage Bit Check, Dressage Check-In, SJ In Gate

Event: Waredaca Farm H.T.
Dates: Friday, August 14 though Sunday, August 16
Address: 4015 Damascus Rd, Laytonsville, MD, 20882
Position(s) Available: Event Prep – SJ, Crowd Control

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin: Matters Pertaining to Racing

By on Aug 13, 2020 1:00 pm -

The Jockey Club’s 68th Annual Round Table Conference on Matters Pertaining to Racing will be held virtually this Sunday, August 16th at 10 a.m. EDT. And what matters currently pertain to racing, you might ask? This year’s topics include anti-doping, achieving integrity, and diversity.

There will be some interesting guest speakers to complement the topics: Greg LeMond, pro cyclist (you know, another sport that has seen it’s share of doping troubles) and three-time Tour de France winner will speak to the importance of clean competition; Bob Costas, who you might remember as the face of NBC’s Olympics coverage for many years (perhaps most unfortunately memorably when he got pink eye during the Sochi Winter Olympics. Oof.) and their Triple Crown coverage will talk about the challenges sports face in 2020 (no, we’re not sure how long this stream will last); and Katrina Adams, the first African American, first former professional tennis player, and youngest person ever to serve as president of the United States Tennis Association (you go, girl) will speak about diversity.

You can find the full agenda and the live stream when it comes time on the Jockey Club’s website. So, if you don’t have any other Sunday morning plans … eh, why not tune in? In the meantime, check out these three adoptable OTTBs who are done pertaining to racing themselves:

Formal Start. Photo via Finger Lakes Finest Racehorse Adoption.

Formal Start (JUMP START – FLOMAR, BY TWO PUNCH): 2014 17.0-hand New York-bred gelding

This huge gelding did decently on the track, earning $148,131 in 34 career starts, but with his sport horse pedigree and proven athleticism he could really shine off the track as well.  Formal Start is nicely built and has a lovely, floaty uphill movement. He may be big, but his handler describes him as “big teddy bear.” While Formal Start is sound, he has occasionally bled in races, which is the reason his owner is looking to find him a new career. Occasional “bleeders” don’t typically have an issue in other careers, however — even at the upper-levels — so don’t overlook this guy!

Located at Finger Lakes Racetrack in Farmington, New York

View Formal Start on Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds on Facebook

Tapping My Heart. Photo via Mid Atlantic Horse Rescue.

Tapping My Heart (TAPIZAR – LION DOWN BY ME, BY LION HEART): 2017 16.1-hand Virginia-bred mare

This young filly came to the Mid Atlantic Horse Rescue (MAHR) through their connections at Maryland’s Beyond the Wire organization and the folks at MAHR are thrill to have her because she really ticks all the boxes of what people want. Tapping My Heart has a great brain, is sound, has no vices, and is a lovely mover with an awesome canter in particular. She only raced five times in her first career, but they think she has the potential to reach the upper-levels of her next sport!

Located in Warwick, Maryland

View Tapping My Heart on Mid Atlantic Equine Rescue

Orange Twister. Photo via New Vocations Racehorse Adoption.

Orange Twister (SHERMANESQUE – FIRST APPROVAL, BY WITH APPROVAL): 2017 15.2-hand Louisiana-bred mare

Orange Twister made 10 total starts and with her best placing being third, which she achieved twice. She may be young and pretty fresh off the track, but “Orange” is easy to handle and super affectionate. She really loves to spend time with her person getting loved on and soaking up attention. Orange has just started with ground work and is being slowly introduced to her new career. She’s showing her trainer that she’s very cleaver and a quick-learner. She’s going to be a super fun (and super cute) one to bring along!

Located in Covington, Louisiana.

View Orange Twister on New Vocations Racehorse Adoption

Monday Video from CLM DWN: Peep the Fair Hill Test Event

By on Aug 10, 2020 5:00 pm -

The test event for the new Maryland Five-Star (canceled/postponed to 2021) was originally supposed to take place back in April just two weeks before the Kentucky Three-Day event (which of course was also canceled, R.I.P. 2020 North American five-stars). With all those big events thrown out the window thanks to COVID, that test event never did take place as scheduled in the spring.

Now that eventing is back in business (well, sort of) eager riders got to test out the new track that will be used for the eventual Maryland Five-Star this past weekend in conjunction with the Fair Hill International August horse trials. With COVID restrictions still in place, no spectators were allowed at the event, but we can take a peek at CCI3*-S action thanks to Area II eventer Emma Hinke. Emma captured tons of footage of various rider and fences, including some of the key questions on course. Thanks for sharing, Emma! You can find video recaps of other big events Emma has attended on her YouTube channel, along with videos chronicling the training of her OTTB gelding.

Here’s a little peek at the turf track as well, thanks to Sara Kozumplik Murphy! Neither event horses nor racehorses are running on the turf this year to allow it to take root and establish itself, but we’ll likely see the five-star cross country track start and end on the oval next year. Check out the brand new arenas in the infield as well. Lookin’ good, Fair Hill, lookin’ good!

Fair Hill International HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Schedule]

 

Saturday Links from Nupafeed USA

By on Aug 8, 2020 12:01 am -

Could there be anyone happier to be out at an event than the lovely Jenni Autry, Managing Director of Eventing for US Equestrian? She would have just attended her first Olympics in her new role as of last weekend — you know, as was the plan prior to the global pandemic — but heck, settling for a burger at Fair Hill during during some three-star dressage sounds absolutely great at this point.

National Holiday: Sneak Some Zucchini Into Your Neighbor’s Porch Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

The Summer Event at Woodside: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

IEA Horse Trials: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

GMHA Festival of Eventing HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Otter Creek HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Fair Hill International HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Schedule]

Spring Gulch HT: [Website] [Ride Times] [Entry Status]

WindRidge Farms Summer HT: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Saturday Links:

Sex Abuse Survivors File Suit Against Morris, USEF And Flintridge

Ringside Chat: Moguel Is Making The Most Of Her Scary Adventure

British Squad Selected to get 2020 FEI Nations Cup Underway

Master the Drop With A Bending Line to a Narrow Fence

Yes, Showing During Covid-19 is Still Fun

Considerations for Building Cross-Country Jumps at Home

3D printed neck bones a revolution in equine vet training

Saturday Video: How ’bout a little Junior Beginner Novice love to start your Saturday? Here are division winners from Rebecca Farm Abigail Popa and Athens:

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin: Delaware Delights

By on Aug 6, 2020 12:30 pm -

For last week’s OTTB Wishlist, we made a virtual visit to Colorado to take a peek at three good-looking horses listed by CANTER. This week we’re zipping east where there’s another lovely contingent of horses available through the Delaware-based CANTER affiliate. No matter where you are in the good ‘ol US of A there’s a former racehorse waiting for you! Here are our three picks of the week:

Not Interested. Photo via CANTER Delaware.

Not Interested (KITTEN’S JOY – DORYPHAR, BY GONE WEST): 2016 15.2-hand Kentucky-bred mare

If you think you’re interested in a horse off the track, you might just change your mind after taking a look at Not Interested. Not Interested is a nicely put together 4-year-old who has yet to finish in the top three after making 13 career starts. She was supposed to be a turf horse, but she apparently didn’t inherit her sire’s affinity for racing and there aren’t many turf races on the cards at Delaware Park either so the best course of action is for her to go on to something different. Perhaps she’ll take to the turf on the cross country course a little better?

Located at Delaware Park.

View Not Interested on CANTER Delaware.

I Won’t Dance. Photo via CANTER Delaware.

I Won’t Dance (FREEDOM CHILD – LET’S GO WALTZING, BY CIRCULAR QUAY): 2018 15.3-hand Pennsylvania-bred mare

This filly’s name doesn’t exactly seem to bode well for dressage, but that doesn’t mean anything of course. I Won’t Dance could very well become a first phase phenom for all we know! This unraced two-year-old came back after a training run with some swelling in her ankle and with a barn full of more promising youngsters, her trainer is wants to find her another home instead of continuing on with her. Give her a little time off to heal and mature and chances are she’ll be good as new and ready to rock n’ roll in a new career.

Located at Delaware Park.

View I Won’t Dance on CANTER Delaware.

Mackattackaronie. Photo via CANTER Delaware.

Mackattackaronie (REDEEMED – PRECIOUS TRADE, BY SKIP AWAY): 2016 16.1-hand Maryland-bred gelding

This gorgeous gelding can run, but his trainer — who also knows the show horse world and has known Mackattackaronie his whole life — thinks he’ll be more successful off the track than on it. With a strong build and some lovely movement, we can definitely picture him succeeding as a sport horse. And not only does this guy have good looks, but he has a great personality to go with it and is a true gentleman.

Located at Delaware Park.

View Mackattackaronie on CANTER Delaware.

Monday Video from CLM DWN: Watch Tamie Smith’s Record-Breaking Dressage Test

By on Aug 3, 2020 5:00 pm -

It’s no secret that Tamie Smith and Mai Baum can d-a-n-c-e DANCE. Tamie and 14-year-old German Sport Horse gelding owned by Alex and Ellen Ahearn and Eric Markell, have been topping first phase leaderboards for a while now — perhaps most notably doing so on their way to winning the Fair Hill CCI4*-L (then CCI3*) in 2015 and then making a splash in their Team USA debut at the 2019 Pan Ams — and it was no different in the Advanced division at Rebecca Farm this year. “Lexus” and Tamie led wire-to-wire to pick up the win, adding just a few cross country time penalties onto their stellar dressage score of 17.7.

If a 17.7 at the Advanced level sounds really low and impressive to you that’s because yes, it is! In fact the USEA confirmed earlier today that it’s the lowest dressage score at the Advanced level since 2006, besting Darren Chiacchia and Windfall II’s 17.9 scored at the Richland Park Horse Trials in August 2008.

And what does a 17.7 scoring Advanced test look like? Watch and learn courtesy of Ride On Video!

Saturday Links from Nupafeed USA

By on Aug 1, 2020 12:01 am -

William Fox-Pitt and Chilli Morning led the field after dressage at Rio 2016. Photo by Jenni Autry.

If everything had gone as planned this year, we would all be hunkered down for an exciting weekend of eventing in Tokyo right now. We’d all be a little groggy this morning, having stayed up late last night to watch the first day of dressage halfway around the world, but you’d better believe we’d all be at it again tonight for dressage day two. Alas, only 355 days to go ’til the Games now …

National Holiday: National Minority Donor Awareness Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Cobblestone Farms HT: [Website] [Ride Times/ Live Scores]

River Glen Summer HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Olney Farm HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Saturday Links: 

High Performance in the Time of COVID-19

Ringside Chat: Tamie Smith Reflects On Silver Linings, Motherhood And Resiliency

Tik’s Picks: A List of Must-Reads for Studious Riders

Practical Electrolyte Use in Horses

Study: How To Cool Out A Horse Quickly

Hot on Horse Nation: NM Diversity Scholarship to Benefit 27 Minority Equestrians

Saturday Video: Instead of dot-watching as the 2020 edition takes off, tune in to a countdown of the best-of Mongol Derby moments from the last decade. Will our own Leslie Wylie make the cut? She frickin’ better. The woman did ride 25 miles without stirrups after all.

Special announcement from Mongol Derby founder Mr Tom:Join us as we retell the greatest moments of the last decade of the #mongolderby .#DerbyDiaries ~the drama unfolds August 2nd. Get to jibbering you lot and ready your finest G & T for the occasion.

Posted by Mongol Derby on Friday, July 31, 2020

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin: Coming from Colorado

By on Jul 30, 2020 9:00 am -

Arapahoe Park in Aurora, Colorado is currently in the midst of its live racing season, which ends on August 26th. The track is closed to spectators due to COVID-19 restrictions, but the fine folks of CANTER Colorado are busy on the backside finding homes for horses who have left the starting gate for the last time. If you’re in the area and in the market for a new equine partner, don’t overlook what these Rocky Mountain OTTBs have to offer!

Dreaming Type. Photo via CANTER Colorado.

Dreaming Type (DATA LINK – ARCHETYPE, BY ARCH): 2017 15.2-hand Indiana-bred gelding

Is Dreaming Type just the type of horse you’ve been dreaming of? This three-year-old is handsome bay with a huge heart and one eye! Now, that’s probably not what you were envisioning when you were dreaming up your perfect event horse prospect, but don’t let it stop you — there have been a number of one-eyed wonders who have gone on to be competitive sport horses. Gove this good-looking guy a shot and see if you can achieve your dreams together.

Located at Arapahoe Park in Aurora, Colorado

View Dreaming Type on CANTER Colorado.

Champ for Justice. Photo via CANTER Colorado.

Champ for Justice (CHAMP PEGASUS – EXCITING JUSTICE, BY GLITTERMAN): 2016 15.3-hand California-bred mare

Champ for Justice enjoyed racing and ran well, according to her owner — she made 23 starts and hit the board a few times — but is being retired due to her owner needing to downsize and because the next track they will be going to won’t have much in the way for races suited to her. This four-year-old has a nice build and tons of potential. She thrived being in a working program and “has the energy and passion for adventure.” Sounds like a winner to me!

Located at Arapahoe Park in Aurora, Colorado

View Champ for Justice on CANTER Colorado.

Mrs. Jones. Photo via CANTER Colorado.

Mrs. Jones (SMARTY JONES – BUFF ‘N POLISH, BY POLISH NUMBERS): 2017 15.1-hand Colorado-bred mare

There are three super fun things about this mare right off the bat: 1) You can sing a modified version of that catchy Counting Crows song “Mr. Jones” all the time (“Mrs. Jones and me … “) you know the one; 2) Her barn name is “Bridget” which is a simply brilliant reference to the long-standing rom-com favorite Bridget Jones’s Diary, and 3) she’s a daughter of the 2004 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Smarty Jones, which is pretty cool! If that isn’t enough for you, then just consider the fact that she’s a sweet young filly who’s being retired sound and ready for any second career that comes her way!

Located at Arapahoe Park in Aurora, Colorado

View Mrs. Jones on CANTER Colorado.

Monday Video from CLM DWN: Helmet Cam Alert! Ride Novice at Rebecca

By on Jul 27, 2020 5:00 pm -

We certainly missed the big International divisions at Rebecca Farm this year — the enormous event on picturesque property in Kallispell, Montana is a real sight to behold — but we’re absolutely thrilled that the event still ran National divisions, treating scores of West Coast and Northwest-based event riders to a wonderful weekend of eventing fun.

Among them was Katrina Natwick of Bozeman, Montana who made her first ever recognized eventing start in the Senior Open Novice C division aboard Sugar and Spice, an 11-year-old Oldenburg mare owned and previously ridden to the Preliminary Andora Tutvedt. Ride along with them as Katrina leaves the bright pink start box for the first time!

Saturday Links from Nupafeed USA

By on Jul 25, 2020 12:01 am -

Katie Ruppel and Houdini at the 2017 Ocala Jockey Club Three-Day Event. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Yesterday it was announced that the 2020 Ocala Jockey Club International 3-Day Event would be unfortunately cancelled and while we’re certainly bummed, we applaud the organizers for truly looking at every angle of the situation. A few of us have mentioned that this one of the the most well-written and informative press releases for an event cancellation yet we’ve read yet and we encourage you to read it if you haven’t already. It really makes you think about all the moving pieces that go in to planning and putting on an event. My appreciation and admiration for event organizers was through the roof already, but this has somehow made me appreciate them even more!

National Holiday: National Day of the Cowboy

U.S. Weekend Action:

Virginia HT & CCI: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

The Event at Rebecca Farm: [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Live Stream] [Live Scores]

Horse Park of New Jersey HT: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

FENCE HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Hunt Club Fars HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Saturday Links:

The Classic Series Conditioning Schedule with Jim Wofford

Will Faudree: Resilient and Ready for More

One To Watch: Smith-Cook’s Star Is Rising At Rebecca Farm

Andrew Hoy’s Olympic memories: ‘You had to ride him like a champion or he would stop’

The Sweat/Wash Cycle: Max Corcoran on Summertime Horse Care

Underwater Fences And The Great Deluge Of The 1968 Olympic Games

Saturday Video: How to jump a ditch and brush … on foot:

We made it to the most beautiful event in the country @rebeccafarm ..@marcgran showed us how to execute the ditch brush on our course walk but might need some work on the landing. ..It was awesome to see the new frangible table technology provided by @useventing foundation. ..Can’t tell you all how great it feels to be back in paradise #rebeccafarm #teamnle #frangiblenow #useventing @fleeceworks @samshieldamerica @frilly__fillies @soless_visors @customsaddlery @auburn_laboratories @c4belts @profchoice @jump4joyusa @coat_defense @nupafeed__usa @devoucoux @ezupshelters @totalsaddlefit @mdc_stirrups @soundhoofconditioner @revitavet @flairstrips @nutrenafeed @premierequestrian @cavallo__boots.fashion @uptimeenergy @haygainUSA @flexineb @mannaprohorse @multiradiance @hylofit @frilly_fillies @neueschuleusa @neue_schule_bits

Posted by Next Level Eventing on Wednesday, July 22, 2020

Weekly OTTB Wishlist: Small But Mighty

By on Jul 24, 2020 11:00 am -

You know that here on EN we absolutely love a pocket rocket who can jump the moon! This week we were lucky enough to find three good-looking OTTBs under 16-hands. One is still racing right now, one is fresh off the track, and one has already shown some serious hops.  You know you want ’em!

Forty Fathoms. Photo via Retired Racehorse Project Horse Listings.

Forty Fathoms (POSEIDON’S WARRIOR – CEDAR ROSE, BY STEPHEN GOT EVEN): 2015 15.2-hand Florida-bred colt

Forty Fathoms is racing fit and still leaving the starting gate at Tampa Bay Downs right now, but his connections know he’s really ready for a new career. This colt may be on the smaller side, but he’s beautifully built and should be well-suited to any second career. Being a colt he is still in tact, obviously, so you may prefer to get a little snip-snip done when you bring him home, but after that you’ll have a lovely prospect!

Located near Tampa, Florida.

View Forty Fathoms on the Retired Racehorse Project Horse Listings. 

On to Cincinnati. Photo via New Vocations Racehorse Adoption.

On to Cincinnati (AWESOME AGAIN – CONQUEST WAR MISS, BY WAR FRONT): 2017 14.1-hand New York-bred mare

Ever dream of having the heart and athletic ability of a Thoroughbred in a pony-sized package? Here’s your chance! “Cici” is a sweet but petite mare who may be short of stature but certainly makes up for it in personality. Cici is actually missing her right eye, but that’s not stopping her from anything. She is is easy to handle and confident on the ground. Under saddle she is a forgiving ride, but has an all-business attitude.

Located in Ganesvoort, New York.

View On to Cincinnati on New Vocations Racehorse Adoption.

Lil Bunny Foo Foo. Photo via CANTER California.

Lil Bunny Foo Foo (COLONEL JOHN – TREE PIPIT, BY WOODMAN): 2013 15.3-hand Kentucky-bred mare

Lil Bunny Foo Foo hopping through the jump course! That’s how to song goes, right? This little mare is pretty appropriately named, judging by the way she pops over these little jumps. Bunny is a really cute mover and dare I see an even cuter jumper and who ever gets their hands on this one is very lucky! Bunny is unraced and was used as a broodmare in Kentucky before coming into training for a third career through CANTER California. She’s still very green but is coming along nicely and has has made her first field trip to school cross country.

Located in Del Mar, California.

View Lil Bunny Foo Foo on CANTER California.

Monday Video from CLM DWN: All Hail Queen Ingrid!

By on Jul 20, 2020 5:00 pm -

We are flashing back to 2017 today with a look back at eventing icon Ingrid Klimke‘s first individual gold medal in the FEI Eventing European Championships. After 17 years of numerous championship competitions and team medal, she finally rode to the top of the individual podium aboard Horseware Hale Bob OLD just a few short years ago. Can you believe that? It just goes to show that good things take time, so #BeLikeIngrid and don’t give up on your goals!

By the by, FEI.TV has extended their free access to on demand content through the end of August so you can watch all the Ingrid you want and more!

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin: Chocolate Three Ways

By on Jul 18, 2020 11:29 pm -

Sweet tooth, anyone? Regardless of whether you’d like to get your hands on some Hershey’s or Nestles or, of course, Mars confections you’re definitely going to want to get your hands on our three chocolatey OTTB picks this week. Bon appetit!

Milk Chocolate. Photo via Second Stride.

Milk Chocolate (TWIRLING CANDY – MADAME X SKI, BY POLISH NUMBERS): 2015 16.0-hand Kentucky-bred gelding

Milk Chocolate retired from racing last year with an injured tendon that has since been fully rehabbed and healed. He’s ready to work and again find a new job that suits him at least as decently as his last did — he won $76,638 in 12 career starts. Milk Chocolate is a perfect gentleman on the ground and the crew at Second Stride simple love his disposition.

Located in Prospect, Kentucky.

View Milk Chocolate on Second Stride.

Hot Cocoa. Photo via Retired Racehorse Project Horse Listings.

Hot Cocoa (SMOKE GLACKEN – CAPPUCINO QUEEN, BY JAVA GOLD): 2005 16.1-hands Kentucky-bred mare

This gorgeous gal hasn’t raced in a long time, having been off the track since 2007 and serving as a broodmare since. Hot Cocoa is a totally sweetheart with impeccable manners — she’s even a pro at ground tying. She was an excellent mother to her babies, but it’s time to find her next thing. And don’t you dare count her out because of her age! We’re betting Hot Cocoa would love to strut her stuff with a person she can call her very own.

Located in Woodbine, Maryland.

View Hot Cocoa on the Retired Racehorse Project Horse Listings.

Ganache. Photo via Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

Ganache (TEUFLESBERG – MESSERAND, BY CLARAMOUNT): 2016 16.1-hand New York-bred mare

This sweet mare was retired from racing because she lacked the necessary speed to be really competitive in the most common races on the card. However, her trainer thinks she’ll be a real cross country talents and she should know — she has placed a number of her horses in homes where they have gone on to successful in upper-level eventing. Ganache only has three career starts and is completely sound and has clean legs. Her trainer has taken her home to her farm during the winters and notes that Ganache greatly prefers farm life to the confinement of the track.

Located at the Finger Lakes Race Track in Farmington, NY

View Ganache on Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

Saturday Links from Nupafeed USA

By on Jul 18, 2020 12:01 am -

A rider at Course Brook Farm tackles the water complex. Photo courtesy of Kristie Gill.

One of my favorite events, Area I’s Course Brook Farm H.T. in Sherborn, MA, is this weekend. I’ll admit I’ve got a bit of a soft spot for it since it was my first USEA Recognized! I won’t be there this weekend, here’s wishing all the competitors good luck and don’t forget to stay hydrated — it’s going to be a scorcher. Electrolytes for horses and humans all around!

National Holiday: Toss Away the “Could Haves” and “Should Haves” Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Full Gallop Farm HT: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times][Live Scores]

Virginia CCI and HT: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times][Live Scores]

Silverwood Farm Summer HT: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times][Live Scores]

Full Moon Farm HT: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times][Live Scores]

Course Brook Farm HT: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times][Live Scores]

Galway Downs HT: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Saturday Links:

Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games Competition Schedule for 2021 Confirmed

From The Magazine: Getting Some Ink For A Good Cause

Featured Clinician: Will Faudree

Ian Stark’s early riding lessons: ‘I learnt stickability and I absolutely loved it’

Babington Strong

Equine Nutrition Survey

Saturday Video:

Monday Video from CLM DWN: Monday Motivation from a Five-Time Paralympic Gold Medalist

By on Jul 13, 2020 10:46 am -

If you’re in the market for a little Monday motivation and inspiration, this beautiful short documentary sharing the story of Natasha Baker, five-time Paralympic Dressage gold medalist and five-time Para-Dressage European Champion, has it in spades.

Natasha was stricken and diagnosed transverse myelitis, a neurological disorder affecting the spinal cord, at 14-months-old. The disease, which in Natasha’s case was caused by an abnormal immune response to a virus, caused permanent nerve damage affecting her balance, a leaving weakness and a lack of sensation in her legs. Always a horse-crazy child anyway, Natasha was thrilled when her doctor told her parents about the local the local Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) where she was then able to ride more regularly and begin showing.

Natasha first learned of Paralympic Dressage the summer of Sydney 2000 — the first year the Paralypmics were televised — and the rest, as they say, is history. Enjoy this FEI TV video that tells Natasha’s story from her early childhood memories to achieving her dreams.

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin: Still Waiting

By on Jul 11, 2020 1:00 pm -

My sister has been trying to adopt a dog for a past few months, subsequent to the passing of our elderly family dog earlier this year. It turns out, though, that everyone and their brother is also trying to adopt a dog this summer too, probably because it’s a great time to get to know a new fuzzy family member during their pandemic stuck-at-home-ness.

I’ve been wondering if the same is true for OTTBs. It’s gotten harder and harder to find new horses to feature through the various rehoming organizations we scout, because it seems they’ve all gotten scooped up! In that vein, here are three perfectly lovely horses that we’ve featured in past editions of OTTB Wishlist and yet are still waiting to find their new homes. Come on, you know you want them!

Paddock Prince. Photo via Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center.

Paddock Prince (CAIRO PRINCE – EL FASTO, BY EL PRADO (IRE)): 2017 16.1-hand Kentucky-bred gelding

Here’s a lovely-looking unraced youngster for you all! He certainly lives up to his name and a real princely-looking prospect. Though Paddock Prince did not race, he did live on the track and have published workouts (so he is 2021 Thoroughbred Makeover eligible!) he was gelded upon arrival at MMSC so and he’ll need an experienced adopter at this time for that reason. He’ll also need a couple more months of pasture turnout to help him recover from a tendon lesion, to allow him to make a full recover before he begins work again, but the sky’s the limit for this guy once he’s been given the opportunity rest and recover!

Located in Lexington, Kentucky.

View Paddock Prince on Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center.

Can Do Man. Photo via Second Strides.

Can Do Man (CAN THE MAN – QUALITY MISS, BY GRAND SLAM): 2017 15.3-hand Kentucky-bred gelding

Can Do Man can do anything when he grows up! This young one is still growing into himself and packing on some pounds, but I can picture a sleek-looking sporthorse under that baby chestnut fuzz, can’t you? He already shows off a big tracking-up trot and good use of his hind-end when working in a round pen. Can Do Man never made a career start on the track and actually hasn’t done any racing, so he’s a clean slate for anyone looking to scoop up a nice young horse to bring along.

Located in Prospect, Kentucky.

View Can Do Man on Second Stride.

Heading to Boca. Photo via Friends of Ferdinand.

Heading to Boca (MAJESTIC WARRIOR – CROSSTOWN TRAFFIC, BY GOOD AND TOUGH): 2011 16.3-hand Indiana-bred gelding

This handsome tall hunk of a gelding needs someone to give him a job! Boca is an athletically gifted guy who enjoys working, but he can be hard on himself if she doesn’t answer the question right the first time. He’ll therefore flourish best with a rider who can be a confident, tactful and encouraging. On the ground, he’ll try to get away with some naughty behavior if you let him, but if you present yourself as the leader and gain his trust then he’ll be a perfect gentleman. The Friends of Ferdinand staff say this horse is real trier and will excel in whatever he’s asked if you can show him patience and dedication.

Located near McCordsville/ Fortville, Indiana.

View Heading to Boca on Friends of Ferdinand.

Saturday Links from Nupafeed USA

By on Jul 11, 2020 12:01 am -

2019 Eventing Thoroughbred Makeover Champions Rosie Napravnik and Sanimo. Photo by CanterClix.

It’s a big bummer for a lot of folks that the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover competition will not happen this year, but it certainly seems like the right call especially after reading the organization’s statement and RRP executive director Jen Roytz’s thoughts. I took the time to read the whole thing and can tell that the decision was not made lightly at all and that the competitors thoughts were taken into account as well, with many reporting via surveys that they did not feel they were able to adequately prepare their Makeover horses with so many shows cancelled up to this point.

The 2021 Makeover sounds extra exciting, however, since it will feature classes specifically for this year’s would-have-been competitors so it will be neat to see different levels of training side by side. We’re also looking forward to Makeover Marketplace still being held in October, albeit in a virtual format, because who doesn’t like a little OTTB eye candy?

National Holiday: National Mojito Day (yes, please!)

U.S. Weekend Action:

Champagne Run at the Park H.T. [Website][Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]
Maryland HT II at Loch Moy Farm: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times][Live Scores]
Poplar Place HT: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times][Live Scores]
Genesee Valley Hunt HT: [Website][Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]
War Horse Event Series HT: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times][Live Scores]

Saturday Links:

Amateur Showcase: Hutcheson On Life With Scoliosis And Her Best Quarantine Purchase

H&H eventing editor’s blog: ‘Did I sleep for four months?’ – dispatches from the first day of BE post-lockdown

Practical Horseman Extra: Sit the Trot or Not

The Essentials of First Aid

Watch Barbury Horse Trials on Horse & Country TV

Application Deadline for $5,000 Diversity Scholarship Extended by One Week to July 17

Saturday Video: We knew Doug Payne was a boss in the jumpers, in addition to being a 5-star event rider, but now he taking to the hunter ring as well! Watch this smooth as silk ride aboard Quiberon. Color us impressed.

Monday Video from CLM DWN: The Five-Star Hamster is Back, Baby

By on Jul 6, 2020 4:30 pm -

A super clear XC today aboard my amazing #firecracker OTTB Call Him Paddy! A miserable pole down in the SJ (due to exhuberance…but who can really blame us?) cost us the win but a lovely 27 in the dressage and a stunning steady clear on the cross brought us home both smiling and profiling! Love this kid to the moon and back and all his American spirit! So blessed to have him under my tack! Happy fourth to everyone! #poweredbyOTTB

Posted by Lainey Ashker on Saturday, July 4, 2020

Laine Ashker celebrated the Fourth of July in style by riding a firecracker American-bred OTTB around the Maryland Horse Trials this weekend. Lainey had more than one thing to celebrate in this ride, however, as it was her mount’s first time back out in competition after injuring a splint bone last summer.

Affectionately known as the five-star hamster due to his smaller stature yet gargantuan love of jumping, Call Him Paddy underwent a surgery to repair his splint bone at the University Of Pennsylvania New Bolton Center which involved removing part of the injured splint bone and replacing it with a graft taken from the hip bone and securing it with a metal plate. While the surgery generally has a good prognosis and the metal place is able to stay in place, “Patrick” had a bit of a lengthened recovery as the he ended up requiring a follow-up procedure to remove the plate. Thanks to the expertise of the his veterinary team, led by Dr. Dean Richardson, and Lainey’s care and careful rehab this spunky OTTB is back, baby, and he’s clearly stoked to run and jump all the things again.

Join them for a double clear ride as they cruise around the Maryland Horse Trials Prelim track!

What a #firecracker💥 #callhimpaddy #poweredbyottb #happyfourth #whoatherepaddy

Posted by Laine Ashker Eventing and Dressage on Saturday, July 4, 2020

Fourth of July Links from Nupafeed USA

By on Jul 4, 2020 12:01 am -

Whitney Mahloch and Military Mind at Millbrook 2019. Photo by Abby Powell.

And just like that *snaps fingers* the August eventing calendar is looking a lot lighter with the loss of Millbrook and postponement of Bromont both announced within the past two days. I’m bummed, but it’s clearly the best, most cautious decision given the recent spike in COVID-19 cases in certain areas. I made my first trip to Millbrook last year to cover it for EN and was really looking forward to a return trip to the beautiful Amenia, New York countryside but I’ll admit I am a little relieved I don’t have to figure out how to interview riders without holding my phone to their faces so they can talk into the voice memo app. I’ve been thinking old school pen and a notebook might be my best bet, but at least I have a little more time to figure it out now.

National Holiday: Independence Day

Weekend Action:

Twin Rivers Summer H.T. : [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Winona H.T: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

The Maryland International + H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Chattahoochee Hills H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Spring Gulch H.T.: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Larkin Hill H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Saturday Links:

‘He’ll stay with me till the day he dies’: five-star eventer bows out

Horses Remember You, Even When You’re On-Screen

The Tough Conversations We Need to Have: Reflections of an Old Horse Caretaker

Extra international classes to give ‘much-needed’ boost to 2020 eventing calendar

Lights Could Help Reduce Horse Stress During Loading, Trailering

Hydration and the Equestrian Athlete

Saturday Video: Take a spin around Chatt Hills with Elisa Wallace and Let It Be Lee:

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin: More Than One Way to Be a War Horse

By on Jul 3, 2020 9:00 am -

There are a couple different definitions of “war horse,” as it it pertains to racing Thoroughbreds. Commonly, it’s a term use for horses who have left the startbox 50 or more times (though I’ve also heard it used for horses with 100 or more starts!) Another definition that some people go by is a horse who has won over $100,000 on track. In this week’s edition of OTTB Wishlisht, we have a war horses of each type and they’re all looking for their next gig. Come and get ’em!

Missin Maggie. Photo via CANTER Maryland.

Missin Maggie (MAGNA GRADUATE – MISSIN, BY EL CORREDOR): 2011 15.3-hand Kentucky-bred mare

“Maggie” has that been-there-done-that attitude that is so typically seen in horses who’ve been on the track for years and years. That’s one of the many reasons to love them! After her 57 career starts, Maggie is ready for a new home and a second career. Her owner has a real soft spot for her — she’s the only horse she’ll ride! — and wants to find her only the best home.

Located at Laurel Park, Maryland.

View Missin Maggie on CANTER Maryland.

 

Calm Pacific. Photo via Second Stride.

Calm Pacific (STORMY ATLANTIC – MINISTRESS, BY DEPUTY MINISTER): 2010 16.1-hand Kentucky-bred gelding

Calm Pacific didn’t quite make war horse status through number of races — he ran 38 — but he did win a hearty $221,181! This 10-year-old most recently raced in January of this year and is under evaluation at Second Stride now. If you love a classy Stakes horse, Calm Pacific could be your guy!

Located in Prospect, Kentucky.

View Calm Pacific on Second Stride.

Congrats Honey. Photo via Retired Racehorse Project Horse Listings.

Congrats Honey (CONGRATS – HAPPY HONEYMOON, BY HONOUR AND GLORY): 2011 16.0-hand Florida-bred mare

Can you believe this sweet lady ran 54 races and earned a grand total of $186,031? That makes her a war horse by both standards! “Honey” is actually looking for her third career. After retiring from racing in 2017, she wen’t back to her owner/’s farm and spent two years as a broodmare. While she was a great mother, her foals just don’t look like they’ll be cutting it as good racing prospects. Even after two years of not being ridden, Honey didn’t miss a beat when her owner hopped back on her recently. He knows this mare has more in her yet and would love to find to find someone to bring her along and realize her full potential.

Located in Versailles, Kentucky.

View Congrats Honey on the Retried Racehorse Project Horse Listings.

Monday Video from CLM DWN: A Quality Ride at the Horse Park of New Jersey

By on Jun 29, 2020 6:00 pm -

Quality Obsession – Intermediate, New Jersey Horse Trials

Barbara Cassani and BE’s Quality Obsession was super today for her 2nd Intermediate and her first show back. Sitting in 4th after dressage, Petal jumped double clear show jumping and had some planned cross country time to finish in 2nd!Ride around the cross country with Tim and Petal thanks to our Cambox Horse helmet cam!

Posted by Bourke Eventing on Saturday, June 27, 2020

You know what we’ve been missing these past few months? (In addition to, you know, actually going eventing.) That’s right — helmet cams! It’s basically the next best thing to going eventing yourself, but it feels like we haven’t had any new ones to ogle over in ages.

Thankfully, the long wait is over and we’ve got our hands on a shiny new video courtesy of US-based Irish rider Tim Bourke, who was out and about at the Horse Park of New Jersey Horse Trials I over the weekend. Tim rode Bourke Eventing and Barbara Cassani‘s 7-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare Quality Obsession to a second place finish in the Open Intermediate C division, after a double clear show jumping round and a cross country run with just a handful of time moved them up from fourth place after dressage. Take a ride around the course with them!

[HPNJ Horse Trials I Results]

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin: Kentucky Derby Will Run With Spectators

By on Jun 28, 2020 9:30 am -

It’s going to be a Kentucky Derby like no other this year, but we knew that upon the announcement that it was going to be postponed from the traditional first Saturday in May to the September 5th this year. Derby goers will in fact get to go to the Derby, however, as it was recently announced that the race will be run with spectators.

In case you missed it, the Belmont Stakes ran this past weekend sans spectator and though it was shortened in length it was no less impressive a race as — spoiler alert — Tiz the Law sprinted to a roughly four-length win in his home state. We’ll have to wait another couple months to see if the New York-bred will run away with the roses in the Bluegrass State in a bid for the strangest Triple Crown ever. In the meantime, check out our three OTTB picks of the week:

Corentin. Photo via Second Stride Inc.

Corentin (CANDY RIDE (ARG) – LENATAREESE, BY BROAD BRUSH): 2017 Kentucky-bred gelding

Corentin made his one and only start in early March of this year and three months later he’s jumping crossrails (so you can imaging how that race went!) He’s loving his new job though, and look at those cute knees! After just a couple rides post-track, Corentin has already shown that he’s a brave and willing ride, ready to try. Sounds like a great event horse prospect to me.

Located in Prospect, Kentucky.

View Corentin on Second Stride Inc.

Bodhicitta. Photo via CANTER Maryland.

Bodhicitta (FACTUM – COULD BE FOR REAL, BY WEST ACRE): 2016 1.0-hand Florida-bred mare

Black Beauty, anyone? After 18 starts, Bodhicitta still has yet to hit her maiden. She’s certainly sound enough to continue trying, but her connections figure maybe it’s about to see if she’d rather be doing a different job. Bodhicitta can get a little bit anxious at the track, so farm life should be more to this sweet girl’s liking and her trainer bets that she’ll take to turnout like a fish to water.

Located in Maryland.

View Bodhicitta on CANTER Maryland.

Jacob’s Flyer. Photo via New Vocations Racehorse Adoption.

Jacob’s Flyer (MASS MEDIA – MOLISTAR, BY PRIZED): 2016 15.2-hand Lousiana-bred gelding

Affectionately known as “Jake from State Farm,” Jacobs Flyer has a lovely kind eye and a personality to match. He’s great on the ground and is ready to learn and listen to his person. Jake can be a little bit of a worrier at first, bit he’s still track fit and not totally used to his new lifestyle yet. Despite worrying, he does his best to listen to his person and relaxes once he gets used to the situation. Once he trusts his person he’s very affectionate and will make you smile every day!

Located in Covington, Lousisiana.

View Jacob’s Flyer on New Vocations Racehorse Adoption.

Sunday Links from One K Helmets

By on Jun 28, 2020 12:01 am -

Photo via Phillip Dutton Eventing on Facebook.

Astute audiences may have noticed that Luke 140, normally campaigned by Boyd Martin, was ridden by Phillip Dutton this weekend in the Advanced division at the Horse Park of New Jersey (and won it!) That’s be cause ‘ol Boydo apparently went and injured himself again. We’re hoping it’s nothing too serious, Boyd! This run qualifies Luke for a 4*-L  and it seems as if Boyd has some big plans for the 9-year-old gelding. Olympics, maybe? We’ll have to wait and see, but Phillip seems to be a fan: “I couldn’t be more pleased for Boyd and all his owners, I really think they’ve got the real deal here,” he said in a Facebook post.

National Holiday: National Paul Bunyan Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Horse Park of New Jersey H.T.: [Website][Entry Status]

Chattahoochee Hills H.T.: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times][Live Scores]

Cobblestone Farms H.T.: [Website][Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Sunday Links:

60 Days Away! The History of AEC Through Numbers

Equestrian Canada Statement on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

‘Willingness to change’: hopes fairytale pictures will help promote diversity in equestrianism

FEI Board allocates Championships and key events for 2021 and 2022

Pippa Funnell, Tom McEwen and Zara Tindall among early entries as eventing prepares to return

New guide on using water treadmills for equine rehab and training

Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe cancelled: plans to run later in 2020 also shelved

Sunday Video: