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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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Fast & Furious Live Updates from #GPE2023

By on Mar 4, 2023 12:20 pm -

Fences 21 and 22, the Banksia Bank and the Battle of Aiken Cannon. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Welcome one and all to our first live updates of the 2023 season! EN is delighted to be bringing you all the action from the $50,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor Harris Insurance Services, and it looks like we’re in for a very exciting finish today.

29 pairs will leave the start box this afternoon and for maximum excitement, they’ll be running in reverse order of standing. The top 5 are separated by 10 seconds of time penalties, so it’s likely the winner will be determined by who can ride the swiftest and the smoothest over this twisty-turny 4 minute, 16 second track. Our leaders, Doug Payne and Starr Witness, have only one second in hand over Liz Halliday-Sharp and Miks Master C, currently sitting in second place. Hot on their heels and are last year’s champions Boyd Martin and Federman B sitting pretty in third.

Take a peek at the course right here and get some insight on the track from EN’s boots on the ground. The first horse leaves the start box at 12:30 p.m. EST. You can find all the info you need to follow along below in our collective of links and you can also watch along yourself via the live stream on H&C+ — you can subscribe or purchase a one-time pass to watch this event here. Otherwise, keep refreshing this page for down-to-the-minute updates and as many GIFs as I can muster.

GPE at Bruce’s Field: GPE Website, Entry List, Ride Times, Live Scores, Team Scores, XC Map, XC Order of Go, Facility Map, H&C+ Livestream, Ride for Charity Public Vote, EN’s Coverage

3:00 PM: What a day at the office for Liz Halliday-Sharp. She was the only rider today to make the time and she did it on not one, but two horses. She takes top honors aboard Miks Master C, who she’s only had the ride on for less than a year still, and also finishes fifth with Cooley Quicksilver. Here’s a look at your top 10. Thanks so much for following along with our live updates today. Stay tuned for a full report and photos coming along soon!

2:55 PM: It’s going to be Liz for the win! Doug didn’t leave anything to chance today, but Liz was simply too fast to catch. Doug stops the clock at 4 minutes, 21 seconds. That’s 5 seconds over the optimum time. It won’t give him the win, but he’ll hang on to second place.

2:53 PM: Whooooaaaa Doug has work for it through the angled one-stride!

2:52 PM: Doug gives Starr Witness a forward ride to fence 8.

2:51 PM: Alright, here we go. Doug and the Ginja Ninja are now on course. Can they do it?

2:50 PM: And she has! Liz and Miks Master C put the pressure on Doug Payne and Starr Witness. Doug will have to come home no more than a second over time to clinch the win.

2:50 PM: Well, the clock on the live stream hasn’t been working for the last few rounds, but judging by Liz’s reaction looking at her watch it looks like she’s done it!

2:48 PM: Just look at Miks Master C skip through the bank:

2:46 PM: Here’s Liz and the always fun to watch Miks Master C. Right from the get-go they have the crowd gasping at their gusto. This pair is going for the win!

2:44 PM: Ack! Two seconds over for Boyd and Bruno! What a ride, it’s hard to believe that round wasn’t quite fast enough. They’ll still keep their slot ahead of Phil and Z though, so they’ll finish the competition no worse than third.

2:41 PM: So far so good for Boyd and Bruno. Bruno has a huge stride, but what clever feet to be so nimble through the bounce:

2:39 PM: And now onto our top 3! Reining champs Boyd Martin and Federman B have left the start box.

2:39 PM: No, they’re over time! It was a fast-looking round, but Phil and Z collect 1.2 time faults. That still slots them into the clubhouse lead, however, over Liz and Cooley Quicksilver.

2:38 PM: This is looking good for Phil and Z, a very smooth ride so far. I’d expect nothing less from this seasoned pair, of course.

2:36 PM: Phillip Dutton and Z are now out on course and once again, Phil is wasting absolutely no time.

2:33 PM: Goldie really gives it his all through the keyhole and good thing Collen ducked! Also a good thing Colleen’s other mount, the over 17-hand Vermont didn’t jump it like that.

2:31 PM: Nooo! Goldie get’s a funny distance and pops over the Palmetto Golf Course, which doesn’t set them up well for the bounce. He doesn’t get his eye on it and puts on the breaks. Colleen brings the gelding around again for another try instead of taking the long route, and they make it through the bounce easily on the next try. Ah well, you win some and learn some!

2:28 PM: Ah, just one second over! That’ll put Will and Pfun in provisional second now. And Colleen Loach and FE Golden Eye are next out on course.

2:26 PM: WFP is so complementary of Will and Pfun’s ride, which is so forward and light in the bridle: “He looks as if he could run about in a head collar,” says WFP.

2:23 PM: Just look at the expression on this horse’s face. He’s a total pro.

2:22 PM: Woods and Contendro come home safely and Will Faudree and Pfun head out on course next, riding a little out of order.

2:19 PM: Whoops, more problems for poor Woods. Contendro comes to a stop at the Battle of Aiken cannon, so they have to do a little improvising to continue the course.

2:18 PM: Uh oh, it looks like Woods dropped a rein in the first water and loses straightness to the next question, so he opts for the long route.

2:17 PM: Long spot alert! Contendro is looking eager as ever and leaves one out.

2:16 PM: Our next on course, Woods Baughman and C’est La Vie 135!

2:15 PM: So close! They cross the finish 2 second over. Sara will be so pleased with that ride though, as will William apparently! Don’t forget to hug your ponies, everybody:

2:13 PM: William says that he’s given Sara strict instructions not to pull on the reins and she’s doing a bang up job. She’s got a chance to catch the time!

2:12 PM: Whoa! Look at how catty Rubens is after getting a close distance to the bounce:

2:10 PM: It’s unicorn time! Sara Kozumplik and Rubens D’ysieux are sailing around and wasting no time. They get a nice forward ride through the first question on course.

2:07 PM: Boyd and Thomas don’t quite catch the time, unfortunately. They’re four seconds over so they collect 1.6 faults and they’ll slot into provisional third place behind Phillip and Azure. Of course, we’ll see Boyd on course again as well with Federman B.

2:04 PM: Boyd and Tsetserleg are now storming around the course, garnering huge cheers from the crowd at every turn.

2:02 PM: They’ve done it! Liz and Cooley Quicksilver come in three seconds inside the time! They’ll finish no worse that 5th place today and no Liz knows exactly what she needs to do aboard her next ride.

2:02 PM: Oop, Cooley Quicksilver slips a little in between the two arenas on their way to the last two fences. It doesn’t seem to have bothered him, but that’s something to watch as the riders later try to go faster.

1:59 PM: William Fox-Pitt joins Holly Hudspeth in the commentary box for this session. He said he likes the course, thought it was fair, and thinks the time should be gettable. Liz and Cooley Quicksilver are looking speedy!

1:57 PM: And we’re back! Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Quicksilver kick off our final session. This pair actually sits in 5th place so they’re riding out of order since we’ll see Liz again as the second to last ride.

1:40 PM: Alright, we have a short break ahead of the top 10. Get yourself a little snack, pour yourself an afternoon cup of tea, and meet me right back here at 1:55 PM. Here are our clubhouse leaders after our first session:

1:39 PM: Ooh, so close! Phil and Azure nearly caught the time — they stop the clock just one second over, but they’re our fastest of the day so far.

1:37 PM: A funky distance for Azure at the Palmetto Golf Club, but no matter. They make that bounce look easy.

1:34 PM: That was a nice ride from Shannon! Ideal HX is another horse now on my watch list — he looked super. They collect 4.8 time penalties. Phillip Dutton and Azure are now out on course and it looks like Phil is flooring it.

1:301 PM: Something interesting: riders can choose to pick off fence 6, the only one on turf, off the left or the right lead. As we get further down in the order and the riders are trying to go faster, it might get interesting to see how tight this turn gets.

1:29 PM: We have two more horses to head out on course before we take a 20 minute break ahead of the top ten. Next out are Shannon Lilley and Ideal HX. Colleen and Vermont finish with 7.2 to add to their score.

1:26 PM: Our next pair on course are Colleen Loach and Vermont and they get an absolutely beautiful shot over the table to skinny, fences 7 and 8:

1:24 PM: Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire have turned in the second fasted round so far, collecting 2 time penalties. No one has caught the time yet.

1:22 PM: Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire, our next starters, look like they’ve been flying! I’ll be interested to their finishing time — Sydney looks like she’s going for it.

1:19 PM: Through the keyhole at the last fence for Doug and Camarillo, who pick up 14 time faults. We’ve also just gotten word that Doug has withdrawn Quantum Leap, so next time we’ll see him will be at the end of the day trying to clinch the title aboard Starr Witness.

1:17 PM: Doug Payne and his first and greenest ride of the day, Camarillo, join us next and are about halfway around the course. Doug gives this young horse a great ride through the bounce:

1:14 PM: Sarah and Mr. Cash finish about a minute over time, but Mr. Cash looks VERY pleased with himself. I’m sure Sarah will be very pleased as well to have had a nice spin around this course and give her horse a great experience.

1:12 PM: Here’s Sarah and Mr. Cash over the up-bank and the cannon, fences 21 and 22:

1:10 PM: Now on course: Sarah Kuhn and Mr. Cash van de Start. I’m not super familiar with this pair, but Mr. Cash looks like such a game guy. They seem to be making easy work fo the course so far and Mr. Cash’s ears are delightfully pricked.

1:07 PM: What a lovely ride William put on this horse — he’ll have gained a boatload of experience today and I bet Heather can’t wait to get back on him.

1:05 PM: Oh no! Vincent Chase just shies at the first element of the angled one-stride and runs out. There’s a lot to look at on the other side of that question. William picks him back up and they easily take the long route out.

1:04 PM: William takes the option at the Palmetto Golf Tees. Smart riding on a horse he’s only just gotten acquainted with!

1:02 PM: Amanda and Carson 119 complete their ride with 6.4 time faults and now William Fox-Pitt on his catch ride, Heather Gillette’s Vincent Chase, join us on course.

12:58 PM: And we’re back! Amanda Beale Clement and Carlson 119 are on course now. The H&C stream is giving such a great look at this massive John Deere Table, which is both fences 5 and 7:

12:53 PM: Erin and Campground have completed their ride with 10.0 time penalties and we’ll now have a 5 minute break in the action due to the withdrawal of Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic.

12:50 PM: There’s something so funny about seeing a horse jumping a tennis net. Erin is giving Campground a nice ride around and giving him plenty of opportunity to read the fences. Liz and Deniro’s score is in and they’ve picked up 4.4 time penalties.

12:47 PM: Liz and Deniro Z are home and we’re waiting on their score, while Erin Kanara and Campground, one of only two full Thoroughbreds in the field are out of the start box now.

12:43 PM: Kendall and Audacious are home with 11.6 time penalties, and now we have a very fast and experienced pair on course next: Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z who are sitting in 15th and riding out of order due to Liz’s standings.

12:40 PM: Kendall takes the long route at the angles brushes, making a circle and picking off the last element.

12:38 PM: Next out of the box are Kendal Lehari and Audacious. This is a bit of a luxury for live updates, as there’s only one horse on course at a time!

12:37 PM: Our pathfinders are home and 2 sends over time. That was a really first round of the dayQ

12:35 PM: Boing! Through the angled fences for Emily and the high-jumping Barry!

12:32 PM: And we’re off! Emily Hamel and Corvett are out on course!

12:30 PM: We’re nearly ready to start, but we do have a last minute withdrawal to report: Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic will not run XC.

12:20 PM: We’re 10 minutes away from the start! Our pathfinders today will be Emily Hamel and Corvett.

GPE at Bruce’s Field: GPE Website, Entry List, Ride Times, Live Scores, Team Scores, XC Map, XC Order of Go, Facility Map, H&C+ Livestream, Ride for Charity Public Vote, EN’s Coverage

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Mar 4, 2023 12:01 am -

Here at Eventing Nation we always have (and always will) preach the importance of minding your melon and wearing a helmet while riding. But until I heard Brianna Noble share her experience of being turned away from sitting on her horse for her lack of helmet, I admit I was shamefully ignorant of the issue that Black equestrians face when trying to reconcile a desire to wear their hair naturally with the right to wear properly fitted safety gear. It’s another obstacle that Black riders face in participating in equestrian sport and a privilege to have never experienced an issue in finding a well-fitted helmet.

Along with recent advances in increasing transparency around helmet safety and price (I see you Virginia Tech Helmet Lab), let’s also hope — and work towards making it a reality — that the industry will also take a look at the problem of inclusivity and figure out a way to ensure that riders with all hair types can find a brain bucket that will suit their safety needs and style.

If you read one thing today make it this New York Times article, which interviews numerous riders as well as helmet manufacturers. It’s heartening to see a large mainstream media outlet drawing attention to the issue. Some of the companies’ replies to the reporter’s inquries are alright (Charles Owen is reportedly working on “several solutions”) while others are actually appalling. Safety should be inclusive. Period.

U.S. Weekend Action

$50,000 Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field (Aiken, SC): [Website] [Entries] [Tickets] [Live Stream] [Scores] [Volunteer] [EN’s Coverage]

Full Gallop Farm March Wednesday H.T. (Aiken, SC): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer][Scoring]

Rocking Horse Winter III H.T (Altoona, FL): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Sporting Days Farm March H.T. II (Aiken, SC): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer][Scoring]

Twin Rivers Winter H.T. (Paso Robles, CA): [Website] [Volunteer] [Entries / Ride Times / Scoring]

Links to Start Your Weekend:

Temple Grandin teams with Australian expert on landmark equine study

Bullet Journaling for Equestrians

Sally Cousins: Work Has Never Been More Fun For This Horsewoman

Polyester halters require special attention when disinfecting after strangles

The A-Team of 2022 Bates USEA Mare of the Year Lady Chatterley and Leslie Law

Sponsor Corner: We are drooling over these Sergio Grasso boots from World Equestrian Brands. The bling! The elegance! The style! *swoon*

Morning Viewing: Just some quick highlights from yesterday’s Grand Prix Eventing show jumping We can’t wait for cross country today!

Area V’s Feather Creek Farm Devastated by Tornado

By on Feb 28, 2023 9:00 am -

Feather Creek Farm’s flattened indoor arena. Photo via Riley Lackey on Facebook.

Beloved Area V eventing facility Feather Creek Farm in Norman, Oklahoma suffered debilitating damage from an EF2 tornado on Sunday evening. Thankfully no horses or humans at the farm were injured, but owner Dynah Korhummel and the local eventing community now face a long and expensive rebuild process as structures throughout the facility have been decimated and the property littered with debris.

A drone video posted by a local meteorologist shows the extensive destruction across the farm:


The footage shows the damage to the home on the property, the indoor arena leveled and its debris scattered throughout the fields, and the roof of the upper barn ripped cleanly off (scroll to the bottom of this post for a closer look at this barn), among numerous other damaged structures, fences, and components of the facility. Two horses were released on Sunday night just before their barn collapsed and all other equine residents of the property have been in the process of being relocated as quickly as possible yesterday.

One of the most immediate needs is assistance with cleanup of the property. Anyone in the area who is able to donate time and energy to help can text Fran Olsen Sharp at (405) 301-6275. For anyone within the greater evening community able to contribute financially, this GoFundMe, created by Miranda Hassler, was set up to collect funds that will go directly to Dynah for the specific purposes of rebuilding Feather Creek Farm, repairing her home, and making up for the farm’s lost income.

Situated just 35 miles south of Oklahoma City, Feather Creek Farm has been an invaluable resource to the Area V community. The farm hosted 23 USEA recognized horse trials between the years of 2009-2020 – the only recognized events in the state – and continues to provide the local community with first-rate schooling and clinic opportunities.

Dynah, a lifelong rider who was long-listed by Team Canada for the 1984 Los Angeles and 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games before settling in Oklahoma, has poured her heart and soul into the development of the facility since closing on its purchase in early 2008. About twenty years prior the property had been known as Tipasa under ownership of US Team rider Mike Huber, before it fell into disrepair in the hands of its post-Mike and pre-Dynah owner.

Most recently, Dynah partnered with the Carolina Horse Park to bring the War Horse Event Series, an acclaimed schooling show series which focuses on education and safety, out west. Feather Creek Farm is scheduled to offer shows in April and September/October this year. Cross country course designer Cathy Wieschhoff had been hard at work over the winter adding new jumps and refreshing the courses, which would include a newly added Modified track.

Amidst the immediate aftermath, there is currently no word on whether the April show will go forward. EN will keep you posted as we receive updates on both the War Horse Event Series and ways you can support the Feather Creek Farm eventing family.

Monday Video: Peek Around Pine Top

By on Feb 27, 2023 3:30 pm -

As one of the first big horse trials offering a full complement of the upper levels early on in the season, it’s so fun to poke around and peek at the scores and social media out of this past weekend’s Pine Top Advanced H.T. to see who’s out and about. This afternoon, we’ve tracked down a few videos of some well-known riders rocking around the competition. Let’s check them out.

Lillian Heard had a busy weekend with five total horses to pilot, four of which were in the Advanced division. Coming out on top in her stable was Advanced level debutante Chilly who lead the division after two phases then collected some cross country time to finish in 5th. (Watch the pair’s show jumping round above!) Also among Lillian’s mounts was her veteran partner LCC Barnaby, getting his first Advanced run of the season in. The pair took it slow across the country since they’re headed to the Eventing Grand-Prix at Bruce’s Field this coming weekend.

Another horse making the Advanced level move up was stunning grey Rio De Janeiro, ridden by Emily Beshear. They finished in sixth place overall and looked to be having a lovely time over this portion of the course:

Here’s Colleen Loach and FE Golden Eye, winners of the Open Intermediate B section, through one of the water complexes on their course. We’ll be seeing this pair later this week too at Bruce’s Field.

Our gal Ema Klugman took her mighty mare Bronte Beach for a romp around the Intermediate cross country as they continue their preparations for a second trip to Kentucky for Ema and a first five-star for Bronte. They finished third overall in the Open Intermediate A this weekend.

And last but certainly not least, we’re so happy to see Tim Bourke back out on course after two surgeries over the course of the last year. Tim eased back into the swing of competition with a cool four rides this weekends. Here he is aboard the lovely Quality Time, with whom he finished ninth in the Open Intermediate B:

Go Eventing at Pine Top!

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Feb 25, 2023 12:01 am -

Yesterday, the eventing world paused for a solemn moment to honor the life of Jimmy Wofford at his memorial services. You can read more reflections from riders, colleagues, and friends, collected by the USEA, here and for anyone interested, Sara Kozumplik has kindly collected the list of places that you can make a memorial donation to:

  • The National Sporting Library, 102 The Plains Road, Middleburg, VA, 20117
  • The Piedmont Foxhounds Conservation Fund, P.O. Box 592 Upperville, VA, 20185
  • Trinity Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 127 Upperville, VA, 20185

U.S. Weekend Action:

Full Gallop Farm Mid February H.T. (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer][Scoring]

Pine Top Advance H.T. (Thomson, GA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Three Lakes Winter II H.T. at Caudle Ranch (Groveland, FL) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times][Volunteer] [Scoring]

Links to Start Your Weekend:

Dan Michaels Is Inventing To Improve Eventing

This Winter Sport Is the Entertainment You Didn’t Know You Needed—A Beginner’s Guide to Skijoring

FEI Solidarity Relief Fund continues support to war-torn Ukraine one year on

Hundreds of horses blocked from FEI events after EHV-1 cases

Learning To Trust

Sponsor Corner: What pony wouldn’t love a nice massage after a hard ride? Thanks to the Equilibrium Therapy Massage Pad, your horse can benefit from massages on demand, whenever and wherever. This pad is clinically proven to improve back flexibility and promote relaxation.

Morning Viewing: Preach, Cathy!

Monday Video: A Cross Country Lesson with Lucinda

By on Feb 20, 2023 4:30 pm -

Fancy a cross country school with the legend herself? While you wait for a clinic opportunity near you, you can enjoy this vlog from UK event rider Evie Llewellyn-Smith. Her recent cross country lesson with Lucinda Green left her feeling a bit, well, drained in the immediate aftermath; but upon letting the lesson sink in and reviewing her own video she realized why.

Lucinda was getting Evie to produce a much more technical ride aboard her mare, Maggie, than she was used to and that was, of course, hard! That technical ability is one of the things that separates a good cross country rider from a great cross country rider and after Evie had some time to digest and reflect on the lesson she felt quite pleased her riding and ready to keep growing and improving her skills in the saddle.

The moral of the story? If you have the opportunity to lesson with Lucinda, take it!

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Feb 18, 2023 12:01 am -

The World Equestrian Center (WEC) has grown to be such a popular spot for event riders looking to get some early season practice over the colored poles. Just this week we’ve spotted Boyd Martin, Liz Halliday-Sharp, Hannah Sue Hollberg, and Mia Farley all in the WEC jumper ring for 1.30 meter classes. Must be a good week to get some cross training in. Check out Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg’s double clear round above.

U.S. Weekend Action:

Ocala Winter I (Ocala, FL): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Ram Tap H.T. (Fresno, CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Jumping Branch Farm H.T. (Aiken, SC): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Volunteer]

Links to Start Your Weekend:

Readers, Riders Share Their Favorite Wofford Memories

Updates to 2022 Equine Medical Research Fund Projects

The Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials: Dates Confirmed

Showing Love to the Barns That Built Us

The Equine Vet Shortage

Sponsor Corner: Give a little to your barn bestie and get a little in exchange with the World Equestrian Brands’ referral promotion. Give your friends 20% off* all qualifying products. Get 20% off* all qualifying products when they shop with your link. Stay up to date on all WEB promotions right here.

Morning Viewing: Take a spin around the Open Intermediate cross country at Rocking Horse Winter II Horse Trials with reigning USEF 3* National Champions Elisa Wallace and Renkum Corsair!

Monday Video: Rock Around Rocking Horse Prelim XC

By on Feb 13, 2023 4:30 pm -

While some of us throughout the country — myself included — patiently wait for our own competition seasons to start, what better way to hype ourselves up for our turn than by enjoying a great helmet cam from a fellow eventer down south?

Jennarose Ortmeyer and her Westphalian/Holsteiner mare Primrose took on their second event of the season last week at Rocking Horse Winter II HT in Florida. The pair competed in the Preliminary Rider division and moved up from fourth place after dressage to finish in second. Well done Jennarose and Primrose, and thanks for taking us along for the ride!

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Feb 11, 2023 12:01 am -

Photo via Paris2024.org

Behold! The official pictograms for the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games have been released! Paris has reimagined the simple icons, “elevating them from mere visual aids to striking coats of arms serving as rallying cries for sports fans.” What do you think of our eventing pictogram, fellow citizens of EN? Honestly I really dig it and I’d like to order a t-shirt ASAP, please. Check out all 62 pictograms here.

U.S. Weekend Action

Full Gallop Farm February I H.T. (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Pine Top Intermediate H.T. (Thomson, GA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Rocking Horse Winter II H.T. (Altoona, FL) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Links to Start Your Weekend:

Understanding Sport Horse Injuries to Limit Them

USEA Emerging Athlete U21 Program Applications Are Open

We Talk Horses with ChatGPT

AAEP Health Coverage: Advances in Sports Medicine

Coolest New Equestrian Products

An Ode to Lesson Horses

Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands sat down with 5* rider Woodge Fulton to talk about setting and achieving your goals for 2023. They cover everything from working your horse in winter, breaking down your goals into bite-size chunks, and more. Read more here!

Morning Viewing: Who’s your pick for the Super Bowl? Connor, a Belgian Draft belonging to the Kentucky Horse Park thinks he knows who’s going to win Sunday’s big game.

Thursday News & Notes

By on Feb 9, 2023 12:01 am -

Just look at all the pretty colors…

I will be forever in awe of anyone who is a wizard at putting together a beautiful Google Sheet or Excel. It’s the kind of thing that I really wish I could do myself (yet haven’t pushed myself to) and makes me inexplicably happy to look at and peruse. Allie Heninger, a recent addition to Team EN, has blessed us with some beautiful documents for our internal use so I was already feeling very spoiled; but imagine my delight when I came across this Google Sheet of Area I events, clinics, and schooling jumper and dressage shows put together by Jay Olcott. Three cheers for Jay, who I will now consider a patron saint of Area I.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Full Gallop Farm February I H.T. (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Pine Top Intermediate H.T. (Thomson, GA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Rocking Horse Winter II H.T. (Altoona, FL) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Your Thursday News & Notes:

Attention all Canadian equestrians! Equestrian Canada needs you to complete their equine industry survey by February 12th. The data on Canada’s equine sector sorely needs updating, as a survey of this kind hasn’t hasn’t been completed since 2010. On yeah, and you could win one of six $50 gift cards as a thank you for your time. [It’s your civic duty, or something]

Reframe your thoughts to have a great ride. It’s easier said than done most times, but we don’t have to tell you that your horse picks up on whatever you’re thinking or feeling. So the next time you find yourself convinced that something bad is going to happen, try some positive thinking. I know, I actually hate that advice too, but positive thinking actually isn’t as corny as it sounds. It’s much more neutral, less cringe, and a useful tool in your mental toolbox. [Pay no attention to your ‘internal Netflix’]

Hey there young riders, thinking of applying for the next U21 session? Get a head start on your application for the USEA Emerging Athletes 21 Program with these top tips. [Why am I having college essay flashbacks?]

Struggling with sitting the trot? The Chronicle of the Horse‘s Mollie Bailey asked three different dressage riders for their sitting trot tips and got three different answers. [Find what works for you!]

Monday Video: Say Goodbye to Slouching

By on Feb 6, 2023 4:00 pm -

Raise your hand if you’ve got a bit of a problem slouching or looking down when you’re riding! (🙋!) So many things that we do out of the saddle — such as sitting at a desk or looking at our phones — encourages that slouchy position. Not only is it not so great for your own long term health and posture, but it’s no so great for your horse’s either and it certainly doesn’t make dressage any easier.

In this video dressage rider Amelia Newcomb shows us exactly how leaning forward and slouching affects everything about your ride: all the way from how it affects your seat to how it affects the contact.

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Feb 4, 2023 12:01 am -

Up until now, it hasn’t been a particularly cold winter in my area so I neglected to put that shrink-wrap style weatherproofing on the windows in my house this year. Of course now that it’s literally zero degrees I’m regretting that decision, but I’ve asked Chinch to step in and help me plug a particularly drafty corner with his bushy tail. He was eventually happy to oblige, even if he was a bit miffed by the request at first. But hey, his work is a little slow this time of year so he can’t be too picky about job offers.

U.S. Weekend Action

Galway Downs 2023 Kickoff H.T. (Temecula, CA): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Sporting Days Farm February H.T. (Aiken, SC): [Website] [Entries] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Three Lakes Winter I H.T. at Caudle Ranch (Groveland, FL): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Links to Start Your Weekend:

Applications Now Open for US Equestrian Higher Education Scholarship for High School Seniors

That Time Jim Wofford Swam A River On An Appaloosa

Para Dressage gets official nod for 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics

Safesport’s Interim Suspension List Nearly Doubled In The Month Of January

Keep Your Eye on the 2022 USEA 7-Year-Old Intermediate Horse of the Year Shanroe Cooley

10-Meter Makeover

Weekly Pick from World Equestrian Brands: Sponsored rider Cornelia Dorr was looking well-outfitted in World Equestrian Brands gear at the US Eventing Developing Rider training session!

Morning Viewing: Ian Stark gives Doug Payne a few pro tips over a tough line at the US Eventing elite training session.

Monday Video: Build Your Own Skinny Brush Fence

By on Jan 30, 2023 2:00 pm -

Course designer and five-star rider Cathy Wieschhoff is back with another “One Minute With Cathy” video, featuring a quick tip for industrious eventers everywhere.

Recently inspired by a portable skinny brush jump she saw at an ECP Symposium, Cathy decided she could make one herself. She’s sharing how she did it, and you’ll only need a few materials and tools:

  • A short pole (repurpose a broken one!)
  • A barrel
  • A paddle drill bit (3/4″ should do it)
  • Some brush! (Anyone still got their Christmas tree around?)

We’ve also seen an additional tip from William Micklem: he advocates for the use of shorter standards with this type of fence in order to reduce the risk of injury to the rider’s kneecaps should the horse drift to one side. If you have some broken wooden standards that you could repurpose or cut a pair down to size, that would be ideal. Of course, then you’ll need to add flags on each side for the full effect. You can buy some bendy poles commercially or maybe try a small diameter PVC pipe from your local hardware store.

Want more quick tips? Cathy’s YouTube is full of ’em! Here’s one on making some brush fillers, if you’re still in a DIY mood.

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Jan 21, 2023 12:01 am -

I’ve had my horse for over ten years now and in that time she’s gone from semi-feral greenie to an absolute gem. In particular, her confidence over fences has come literal leaps and bounds. For years and years she’d always add a stride or do the pony shuffle at the base of the fence if we got a wonky distance, but as her confidence has skyrocketed (and as I’ve learned to stop pulling so much!) she’s become more and more likely to take the long spot. Having had this horse for so long, I forget that she isn’t a baby anymore and it still catches me off guard when she has the gusto to pick a long one that I often audibly gasp as we’re in midair over the fence!

U.S. Weekend Events

Stable View Aiken Opener H.T. (Aiken, SC): [Website] [Entries] [Scoring] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Grand Oaks H.T. (Weirsdale, FL): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Links to Start Your Weekend:

Where Are They Now? New Rider, New Career For RF Demeter

2023 U.S. Equestrian Annual Meeting: Horse and Rider Safety and Social License

Believing In Your Program and Yourself with 2022 RevitaVet USEA Young Rider of the Year Cassie Sanger

One Health cooperation urged between human, animal and environmental groups

The importance of your horse’s posture – plus exercises to improve it

Sponsor Corner: Did you know that a portion of your order at World Equestrian Brands is donated to FlyPups? This non-profit transports dogs from desperate situations to fosters, no-kill shelters, and fur-ever homes. FlyPup pilots also bring aid and relief to areas of natural disaster.

Morning Viewing: I have no idea what’s actually going on here, but here’s video of Ingrid Klimke show jumping while dressed up as Pippi Longstocking. You’re welcome, I guess.

Monday Video: Baby’s First Cross Country

By on Jan 16, 2023 5:00 pm -

If we were to measure how much we love a helmet cam by the number of “Good boys!” (or girls!) the rider shouts, then this one easily makes the top rankings. Honestly though, is there anything more heartwarming than a little baby event horse trying his heart out during his first cross country run?

Three-and-a-half-year-old Chilli Star (Coronado x A Bid For Stardom xx), an Oldenburg/ Thoroughbred bred and owned by Michelle Green at Hidden Creek Ranch Sporthorses, took on his first event at Majestic Oaks HT this weekend. With Jennarose Ortmeyer in the irons, “Legs” had a wonderfully positive experience competing in the starter division, his ears pricked the whole way ’round the course. Young Chilli Star is entered in the 2023 US Event Horse Futurity, and we look forward to following his progress!

Sunday Links from SmartPak

By on Jan 15, 2023 12:01 am -

Here’s a great clinic opportunity for anyone local to Auburn, Alabama. The Auburn Eventing Team will be hosting Swedish Olympian Ludwig Svennerstål for dressage and show jumping lessons at the end of this week. See the info above for details and to reserve a spot!

And speaking of exciting overseas clinicians, we have word from Sara Kozumplik that William Fox Pitt will be making another midwinter trip to the States. He’ll be clinicing in Ocala at the end of February, will compete in the Grand Prix Evening at Bruce’s Field again, and then will have time to teach another U.S. clinic before flying home. Get in touch if you’re interested in hosting him!

U.S. Weekend Action:

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (Ocala, FL): [Website] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Ram Tap Horse Park Combined Test (Fresno, CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Links to Start Your Sunday:

What is a Sport Psychologist and What Do They Offer Equestrians?

Death of Jockey Whisman Shatters Those Who Knew Him

Iraq Army Veteran’s connection to horses helps her heal

Rider Fitness Can Affect Horse Soundness

‘Using Your Core’ Also Helpful For Equine Rehabilitation Patients

Thoroughbred racehorse welfare index emerges from the starting gates

Weekly Pick from SmartPak: Mine were “Freedom”, “Heat”, and “Barrel Racing”… 🤔 (Don’t forget, SmartPak’s Winter Clearance is happening now!)

Saturday Viewing: Doug Payne and the super Starr Witness are hitting the jumper rings at WEF:

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Jan 14, 2023 12:01 am -

Here’s a heck of an opportunity for a lucky (and by lucky I actually mean hard working and skilled) rider out there. The Prices are hiring an assistant rider! Do you meet their criteria and think you have what it takes? Go snag that opportunity of a lifetime and let us live vicariously through you, please.

U.S. Weekend Action:

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (Ocala, FL): [Website] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Ram Tap Horse Park Combined Test (Fresno, CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Links to Start Your Weekend:

What Defines The Good Life For A Horse?

‘You Will Always Be So Loved’: Hall Of Famer Mike Smith Pays Tribute To Late Jockey Avery Whisman

New Membership Opportunity for Participants of the Volunteer Incentive Program

Pros and Cons of Using Haynets: New Information

Changes in Hair Coat Length and Diameter in Blanketed and Nonblanketed Adult Horses in the Winter

Weekly Pick from World Equestrian Brands: Did you know that the luxury of E.A. Mattes sheepskin products isn’t just for horses? Your dog can enjoy total comfort too!

Morning viewing: Off The Record is up for 2022 USEF/SmartPak International Horse of the Year. Relive all his 2022 achievements in this video:

Monday Video: Get a Glimpse of a Dream Horseback Holiday

By on Jan 9, 2023 4:00 pm -

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Take a deep breath everyone, you’ve made it through another Monday. Maybe you’ve just finished sweeping up the barn after a long day on your feet or in the saddle. Or perhaps you’ve just sent a couple last emails before closing your laptop for the day. Either way, it’s time to treat yourself to a good 20 seconds of absolute zen (or, maybe just 20 seconds of absolute envy if you’re feeling a touch bitter today).

Lissa Green recently took the holiday of a lifetime, a riding safari in Kenya, and her fiancé Giorgio captured this absolutely epic video. Enjoy!

Sunday Links from SmartPak

By on Jan 8, 2023 12:01 am -

Dr. Kevin Keane and Sportsfield Candy in the 2022 Lexington CCI4*-S. Photo by Abby Powell.

Some big news out of one of Area II’s finest veterinary establishments: Sports Medicine Associates of Chester County (SMACC) is now under the ownership of Dr. Ashley Taylor and Dr. Taryn Gassert. Both doctors joined the establishment in 2015, which was originally founded by Dr. Kevin Keane in 2005. Dr. Keane has been a steadfast figure in eventing for many years, not only serving as veterinarian to the stars but actively riding at the upper levels – including completing the Kentucky Three-Day Event in 2014 — himself.

Never fear though, Dr. Keane hasn’t hung up his stethoscope — he’ll continue to practice veterinary medicine at SMACC, just no longer as the practice owner. Congratulations to Drs. Taylor and Gassert on purchasing the business, and we hope this means we’ll be seeing you out on course even more, Dr. Keane!

Links to Start Your Sunday:

Reminder: 2024 Rule Change Proposal Comment Period Closes January 9, 2023

Yasmin Ingham: Living the dream

Getting the Right Line Every Time

Far From Foolproof: Cloned Male Equine Born A Filly

Tips for Managing Horse Barns During Winter

Weekly Pick from SmartPak: Here’s wishing all Thoroughbreds a Happy Belated Birthday! Get to know some the of OTTBs loved by their SmartPak family members!

Morning Viewing: Got a horse that yanks you out of the saddle? Here’s a quick tip from dressage Olympic medalist Ali Brock.

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Jan 7, 2023 12:01 am -

As an adult ammy who usually hits the barn in the late afternoon after shutting down my laptop, I already feel like we’re over one of biggest hurdles of the winter. We’ve passed the Winter Solstice as well as the chaotic holiday season and I can now actually notice, just a little bit, that the days are getting a smidgen longer again. I don’t know about you, but that extra sliver of daylight sometimes makes a world of difference to me when I’m trying to pry myself out of my warm office chair and throw myself into a cold saddle. Once I’m in the saddle I’m always glad I’m there regardless, but goodness, that extra Vitamin D sure makes the whole process a lot easier.

Links to Start Your Weekend:

An Adult Amateur’s (Unrealistic) New Years Resolutions

The Four Positions for Cross-Country Success: Day Four of the EA21 National Camp

Alan Davies stepping back from role as ‘super-groom’ to Carl Hester and Charlotte Dujardin

Work of early “veterinarian” paved the way for improved horse care

Horses Are Susceptible to COVID Virus, but Not Disease

Hot on Horse Nation: Weekend Wellness: How To Check Your Horse’s Vital Signs

Weekly Pick from World Equestrian Brands: Honestly who isn’t a little cold-backed in the winter? You might be on your own, but World Equestrian Brands has your horse covered with their Equilibrium Therapy line of products.

Morning Viewing: Just a quick tip to make clipping a saddle patch a little neater!

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Monday Video: Videographers Say the Darndest Things

By on Jan 2, 2023 2:00 pm -

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We probably all have that one friend who can’t help but provide a little commentary as they video our rides, but lucky for the rider (and for us, when those involved feel like sharing their videos) that means all their remarks are caught on camera and we all get to have a good chuckle later.

Take these videos from Australian eventer and blogger Sydelle Boscarello for example, who’s friend Sarah provides some highly relatable thoughts throughout. We might laugh a bit at their commentary, but really a friend that is willing to video your rides is a very good friend indeed!

Click here to view the embedded video above if it does not appear.

New Year’s Day Links from SmartPak

By on Jan 1, 2023 12:01 am -

2022 FEI Eventing World Champion Yasmin Ingham celebrates after her clear round with Banzai du Loir. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Happiest of New Years to YOU, citizens of Eventing Nation! As we close the book on a literal championship year, the EN team would like to say thank you for being here and sharing in our love for the horses, people and community that bring this sport to life. The whole team here is honored to have been your go-to source for the most insane and comprehensive eventing coverage throughout 2022 and we’re looking forward to another big year in 2023. Onwards!

Links to Start Your New Year:

The Stars Pick Their Magic Moments of 2022!

The Best Blogs Of 2022 Encouraged Empathy With Horses And Riders Alike

Tips on Surviving Winter from Northern Ontario

Why I Chose Horses Instead of Babies

Fast Facts: EA21 National Camp

Changing Riding Disciplines

SmartPak Pick of the Week: Have you got some gift certificates burning a hole in your pocket? Now’s a great time to spend ’em, since SmartPak is currently holding their winter clearance event. Get up to 75% off some of your favorite winter gear!

Morning Video: A gentle reminder courtesy of our friends at Dapple Bay <3

New Year’s Eve Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Dec 31, 2022 12:01 am -

A very big, successful year for Caroline Martin turned out to be even more memorable than we imagined! She and Deniz Pamukcu were married one week ago on Christmas Eve and our warmest wishes go out to the happy couple. We’ll be watching out for Caroline Pamukcu on the entry lists next year!

Links to Start Your Weekend:

The Official Horse Inspector of the Tournament of Roses Parade

Black Girls Ride Too! How This 24-Year-Old Equestrian Entrepreneur Is Galloping Toward Olympic Gold

Gradually Build the Trot Extension

‘Badminton was a childhood dream – and next time I want to be more competitive’ – riders to watch in 2023

Betting bias against female jockeys is costing punters, study findings suggest

Last day to enter: the Ultimate LRK3DE Getaway!

World Equestrian Brands Pick of the Week: Roll call! Who was lucky enough to find some goodies from World Equestrian Brands under their tree this year?