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Monday News and Notes from Success Equestrian

By on Feb 24, 2014 12:01 am -
The Stonehenge Complex at Carolina Horse Park! Photo by ??? The Stonehenge Complex at Carolina Horse Park! Photo by ???

I’m probably dating myself by asking this, but who else remembers the Dennis Leary album ‘No Cure For Cancer’? Dennis got it wrong – it’s EVENTING that leads to carpentry. One of the best things about eventing is that it’s the only sport where you get to rampage around and leap over art. There are some very talented jump builders out there who possess some truly amazing building skills.  I can barely put a nail in straight. I can’t wait to see the Stonehenge complex at Carolina Horse Park when it is all done!

Also, just in case you need something to make your day a little brighter, we are less than two weeks away from daylight savings!  Getting up early for work that first day is going to be awful, but when it’s still light out at almost 7pm it will so be worth it!

Weekend Results:
Pine Top Spring Advanced HT [Final Scores]

Events Opening This Week:
Ocala Horse Properties International 3-Day Event, (FL, A-3) Twin Rivers Spring Three-Day Event & H.T. (CA, A-6) St. Johns H.T. (AZ, A-10) Pine Hill Spring H.T. (TX, A-5) Plantation Field H.T. (PA, A-2) FENCE H.T. (SC, A-3)

Monday News and Notes:
Earlier this month Nicole Le May, a young eventer from Area X, suffered a traumatic brain injury after a fall.  Nicole has been taken off of the ventilator, but has still not woken up.  She is currently in the ICU at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.  A GoFundMe page has been established to help the family manage the overwhelming medical costs.  [Nicole Le May Recovery Fund on GoFundMe]

Liz Halliday is on cloud nine after taking home the win in the Vale Sabroso CIC 2* aboard Fernhill By Night.  For her efforts, she has a rather fancy new Harley Davidson.  Not going to lie, I’m kind of totally jealous. Pop over to her Facebook page and check out her sweet new ride.  Question is, did she load it in the trailer or ride it home? [Liz Halliday’s Facebook Page]

Speaking of Facebook, you may have seen something circulating about 13 horses at Eagle Rock Equestrian Center needing to be rehomed or they would be euthanized due to the facility’s closure.  While it is true that the Pennsylvania barn is changing ownership, the rumors about the possible fate of the horses are inaccurate.  [More from PAHomepage.com]

Access to eventing Dressage at the WEGs in Normandy looks as though it may prove challenging.  Dressage will be held at le Pin National stud which will only be accessible by car.  Cross country day spectators will have access to shuttles from various towns in the region.  I say that this is simply further proof that no one really enjoys dressage, we all just tolerate it in order to get out on the cross country course.  [More from Horsetalk.co.nz]

After a stellar career, Miner’s Frolic is retiring early due to a cardiac condition.  Under Tina Cook, Miner’s Frolic has been a consistent contributor to the British Team’s success at the Olympics and the World Equestrian Games. Vets say that his cardiac condition is relatively minor and will not need treatment as he will no longer be performing at high levels.  [More from TheHorse.com]

British Eventing has adopted some new rules in relation to concussions.  All riders who suffer a concussion will be suspended for 21 days. The new rules also take in to account ‘delayed concussions’ where the symptoms develop hours or days after an accident.  Riders who may have a concussion after a fall will need to be re-examined two hours after the fall.  Failure to report for examination will result in the 21 day suspension.  I always find it interesting to see how safety issues are handled by the various national eventing organizations. [More from Horsetalk.co.nz]

Monday Video:  I am always amused by horses and ponies who make funny sounds.  My mare grunts like she’s playing tennis.  This had me in stitches.  Too cute for words.

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Sunday Links from ERS-Eventing.com

By on Feb 23, 2014 12:52 am -
Invasion of the deely boppers! Invasion of the deely boppers!

One of my favorite things about clinic weekends at Dragonfire is the creative things that get show up in our arena.  Today, I arrived early and noticed an invasion of  deely-boppers atop some straw bales.  Hawley wanted flags so she got… well, I guess they are flags? They twirled in the wind and proved quite entertaining all day. Creative solutions are often the best.  There were four deely-bopper hay bale jumps in total, with two strides between each. More details to come in a clinic report!

Events This Weekend:

Pine Top Spring Advanced HT [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Aiken George Morris Clinic Schedule:

The schedule is all set for tomorrow’s George Morris clinic at Bridle Creek Farm in Aiken. All Aiken eventing enthusiasts are encouraged to come out and audit the clinic. George is charging a $60 fee to sit back and watch the action. Please bring your own folding chairs! Directions to the farm can be found at boydandsilvamartin.com. There is also a meet and greet reception for George on Monday afternoon from 4:30-6:30 p.m. down the road at Fernanda Kellogg’s Fox Frolic Farm. All owners, auditors, riders and grooms are invited.

Group 1 — 9 a.m.-11 a.m.
Phillip Dutton
Will Coleman
Boyd Martin
Doug Payne
Jan Byyny
Colleen Loach
Ryan Wood

Group 2 — 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Will Coleman
Boyd Martin
Phillip Dutton
Caitlin Silliman
Erin Sylvester
Kate Chadderton
Lillian Heard

Group 3 — 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
Mike Pen
Sawyer Gilker
Kaitlin Spurlock
Melissa Hunsberger
Booli Selmayr
Will Coleman
Allison Springer

Sunday Links: 

Vet Called After Roll Over Accident Involving Horse Trailer

Horse Show Vet Might See 30 Horses In A Day

Horse Survives Being Shot In The Face

Wild Horse Adoptions Continue

Eight Lies ‘Advocates’ Told About Carriage Horses

Wildcat Red ‘never quits’, Wins In Heart Pounding Photo Finish

Sunday Video:

2012 Hamburger Derby – A seriously fierce show jumping course

ERS-Eventing

Next Year, Head West

By on Feb 19, 2014 10:30 am -
Team Dragonfire on a hack in December. Photo by Clair Thunes Team Dragonfire on a hack in December. Photo by Clair Thunes

Right around this time, every year, I find myself scratching my head and going, “Why did they go south when they could have come here?” Nothing beats California. If you head to the same place every year, rent the same farm every year, show at the same events, eat at the same restaurants every year and essentially do the same thing every year, it is likely that you’ve found some comfort in those routines and traditions. Your comfort zone is a safe place, but nothing new happens there. I will grant that it is a much longer trip for most of the folks who head to Aiken or Ocala for the winter, but it’s so worth it. This year has been an exceptionally mild winter, and even when we get a wet and cold one, the snow stays in the mountains where it belongs.

In California, we have a micro-environment to suit every taste. If you like fog and forests, try the Monterey Bay area. If you want to have the option to slip in the occasional beach day, try San Diego. If you want to have access to both a major metropolitan area and snowy ski-slopes, try the Sacramento area – both are close enough for a day trip. No matter what area you choose, it almost never gets bone-chillingly cold.

If T-shirt weather in the dead of winter isn’t temptation enough, the opportunity to ride under new judges, to tackle courses you’ve never tried before and to meet some fabulous people may be more tempting. With Fresno County Horse Park hosting an early season CIC* and CIC2*, it makes even more sense to skip the trip south and head west! Most of the fabulous people you’ll meet love to party, and our competitor parties are legendary.

Other temptations of California include a number of active hunts — Santa Fe Hunt/West Hills Hounds in the south with Red Rock Hounds, Santa Ynez Valley and Los Altos Hounds in the north. Technically, Red Rock Hounds is based out of Reno, Nev., but they’re less than an hour over the state line.

Additionally, it is worth noting that out west we LOVE clinics. There are lots of great learning opportunities as an amateur, and professionals will find plenty of people willing to help organize clinics.

Finally, the food out here is amazing, especially the Mexican food. A few years ago, I went back east to visit some friends. The first pang of homesickness that hit me was when I experienced what the rest of the country considers “good Mexican food.” Yes, you can get Chipotle in most states now (and that is a great start!), but I cannot even begin to explain what you guys are missing.

Changing your routine and getting outside of your comfort zone is essential for growth. The open road and adventure of the west is calling. Next year when it turns cold, follow the sun across the sky and don’t stop until you see the ocean. We’ll be waiting.

Go Eventing! Go West!

Monday News and Notes from Success Equestrian

By on Feb 17, 2014 12:11 am -
Breakfast of Champions. Boyd using the grill to make eggs and instant coffee due to lack of power at Bridle Creek. Photo from Silliman Eventing's Twitter feed (@CSEventing) Breakfast of Champions. Boyd using the grill to make eggs and instant coffee due to lack of power at Bridle Creek. Photo from Silliman Eventing's Twitter feed (@CSEventing)

There is a point where exhaustion gives over to goofiness and a strange sense of euphoria.  I hit that point last night, driving home from a long day at a local jumper show. Queen’s “We Are The Champions” came on the radio.  Alone in my truck, I sang along at the top of my lungs, doing my best Freddie Mercury hand motions as I rolled along through deep country dark back towards suburbia.  Indeed EN, we -are- the champions of the world. We are eventers! Just look at Boyd. Nothing can stop us! Not even an ice storm in Aiken!

Weekend Results: 

Rocking Horse Winter II [Final Scores]

Paradise Farm [Final Scores]

Fresno County Horse Park HT [Final Scores]

Events Opening This Week: 
The Fork CIC3*/CIC2* & HT (NC, A-2)
Chattahoochee Hills H.T. (GA, A-3)
CDCTA Spring Horse Trials (VA, A-2)
Spring Bay H.T. (KY, A-8)

Monday News and Notes:
Another birthday shout-out is in order, this time for Colleen Rutledge!  Even though Aiken is very chilly at the moment and much of the area has been without power, I would be willing to bet that Colleen and her crew will find some time for fun.  Head on over to her Facebook page and wish her a happy birthday! [Colleen Rutledge Eventing on Facebook]

It has been an exceptionally rough winter when it’s come to colic and other medical emergencies among the eventing crowd.  Please keep a kind thought out for Olivia Loiacano’s horse Subway.  Subway had emergency colic surgery on Friday night.  During the five hour surgery, veterinarians resectioned his small intestine.  Subway is currently recovering.
The Aiken Gala has been rescheduled for THIS Wednesday, February 19 from 6-9 p.m. at the Willcox in downtown Aiken! Attire is casual cocktail. Please come out and support our team! The Willcox address is 100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken. Email us if you have any questions or if you haven’t already RSVP’d: [email protected].
Don’t forget to send a photo for the Smooch Your Horse Contest Presented by Hamilton BioVet! Send a photo of you kissing your horse to [email protected] by midnight EST tonight for a chance to win a $50 gift card to Hamilton BioVet. [Entry Details]
Calling all FEH/YEH aficionados! Join the USEA on February 24th and 25th for their Future Event Horse (FEH) and Young Event Horse (YEH) Educational Seminar. The seminar will be held at Ocala’s Longwood Farm, and will include presentations from breeders and judges, as well as in-hand and ridden demos. The event is FREE for USEA members, and $50 for non-members.  Catch the High Performance training sessions while you’re there! [USEA]
Rebecca Brown has set up a RocketHub project to fund an upper level horse . After getting a degree in finance and building a business, she spent her time honing her skills in the show jumping ring with Joe Fargis as well as earning her Bronze and Silver medals from USDF.  She’s brought along a few young horses as well as participated in the Maccabiah Games.  Check out her RocketHub project! [A New Equine Venture For Rebecca Brown]
Monday Video: 
Laine Ashker recently picked up a GoPro and stuck it to the side of her head.  Lets go for a ride!

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Sunday Links from ERS-Eventing.com

By on Feb 16, 2014 12:28 am -
Eventing 25 Rider Cori Davis and A Golden Effort at Fresno County Horse Park. Photo from Dragonfire Farm's Facebook Page Eventing 25 Rider Cori Davis and A Golden Effort at Fresno County Horse Park. Photo from Dragonfire Farm's Facebook Page

I love living in the digital age. There is nothing better than having information available at your fingertips whether it’s scores from an event or race results. Last night, my husband and I went out to the track with some friends to watch the harness races. It started to sprinkle a little bit and a cold wind was blowing.  One of the less outdoorsy persons in our band of ne’er do-wells complained of the chill and another complained of hunger.  We left after just a couple of races and hit dinner instead.  I was initially reluctant to go because I’d put in a Pick-4, but thanks to Ye Olde Internet I was able to check the results.  Sadly, I didn’t hit the Pick-4, but the sting of missing on it was significantly lessened after having not stood in the cold and drizzle. Today I’ll inevitably spend most of the morning checking results for Fresno County Horse Park where much of Team DF is part taking in some early season action.

Events This Weekend:

Rocking Horse Winter II [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Paradise Farm [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Fresno County Horse Park HT [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Aiken Gala Update:

The Aiken Gala has been rescheduled for THIS Wednesday, February 19 from 6-9 p.m. at the Willcox in downtown Aiken! Attire is casual cocktail. Please come out and support our team! The Willcox address is 100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken. Email us if you have any questions or if you haven’t already RSVP’d: [email protected].

Sunday Links:

Horse Rescued From Swimming Pool

Saddles For Young Riders Stolen from San Francisco Bay Area Stable

Rider Dies In Fall After Horse Spooked By Farm Machinery

Legislation Filed In Response To Connecticut Horse Bite Case

Ollie The Police Horse Retires

Laurel Park Races Cancelled Due To Snowstorm

Sunday Video: I’m always interested in watching the techniques of different body-workers.  Here’s Jim Masterson talking about different techniques he uses to encourage relaxation.

ERS-Eventing

Valentine’s Day Videos: Horsey Wedding Proposals

By on Feb 14, 2014 10:30 am -
Adorable photo via Wikimedia Commons Adorable photo via Wikimedia Commons

It’s Valentine’s Day, so you can indulge in some romantic sappiness guilt-free. I’ll admit that I have a soft spot for proposal videos on YouTube even though I never wanted to be proposed to in a dramatic way myself. Whether you’re spending the day with a four-legged Valentine or one of a two-legged variety, these proposals are sure to put a smile on your face.

Even though he doesn’t get on, you have to give him credit for clanking around in that big ol’ suit:

From the description, it sounds like he bought her the horse too:

This fellow went all out. An effort deserving of a gold star and a box of chocolates:

Happy Valentines Day, EN. We love you!

Happy Birthday: Laine Ashker Turns 30!

By on Feb 10, 2014 12:00 pm -
Lainey and Love Birds, Barney and Elmo Lainey and Love Birds, Barney and Elmo

There are a few milestone birthdays in life and today is one of them for Laine Ashker. She turns the big 3-0 today and will undoubtedly be up to all sorts of shenanigans. Laine is just one of the many awesome people out there that prove that you can still be cool after your twenties. Head on over to her Facebook page and post your best Birthday selfie there or wish her well in the comments below!

 

Monday News and Notes from Success Equestrian

By on Feb 10, 2014 12:01 am -
It's almost time for audiobooks and quarter sheets! It's almost time for audiobooks and quarter sheets!

Fabulous News, EN! We are one month away from the most magical day of the year! I’ve been bouncing around jubilantly in celebration of this small bit of joy. My coworkers don’t quite understand and have only been able to mumble back at me, “Christmas was in December.”  No, horse people know that the most magical day of the year is not Christmas, nor is it the day after Halloween either when all of the Halloween candy goes on sale.  The most magical day of the year is the day we get to roll the clocks ahead one hour and bask in the glory that is Daylight Savings Time.  March 9th can’t get here soon enough.

Weekend Results: 

Pine Top [Final Scores]
Ocala Horse Properties Winter II HT [Final Scores]

Events Opening This Week: 

Ocala Horse Properties International 3-Day Event, (FL, A-3)
Twin Rivers Spring Three-Day Event & H.T. (CA, A-6) Full Gallop Farm H.T. (SC, A-3) Morven Park Spring H.T. (VA, A-2) Galway Downs International Horse Trials (CA, A-6) Texas Rose Horse Park H.T. (TX, A-5) Rocking Horse Spring H.T. (FL, A-3)

Monday News and Notes: 

This year’s ICP Ocala Symposium kicks off today with Dressage.  There are a lot of great riders to watch and will prove educational for the auditors as well.  Jacquelyn Brooks and Aaron Vale will both present some of their perspectives on how to develop horses. Tomorrow will feature show jumping exercises.  The symposium will be held at Longwood Farm South, 10011 NW Hwy 225A in Ocala, Florida.

Don’t Drink and Ride.  In Boulder, Colo. a man accused of riding while drunk has failed to appear at a court hearing and a warrant has been issued for his arrest.  Apparently, he was riding the horse to his brother’s wedding.  [More from TheDenverChannel.com]

A tragic barn fire in Kentucky has killed eight horses.  A barn at Spooky Hollow Racing Farm burned to the ground in the early morning hours on Sunday and officials aren’t yet certain as to how the fire started.  The barn had recently been renovated and everything was up to code.  [More from WKYT.com]  

Kim Hammond, already the all-time leading female trainer by wins has added a new record.  She now has 2000 career victories, thanks to Big Smooth who won his race Saturday at Turfway Park.  She has been training since 1980, with about 20 horses currently in training.  [More from Courier-Journal.com]

If they’re making rules due to your own misbehavior, wouldn’t you show up? Due to some recently uncovered footage there are concerns about certain Middle Eastern countries not making an effort to help clean up Endurance racing.   The FEI held a conference to address these concerns and no representatives from the region attended, including Sayeed Al Tayer, a senior employee of Sheikh Mohammed. [More from Telegraph.co.uk]

Omaha, Nebr. a new mecca for Show Jumping? It could happen in 2017.  Omaha is in the running to host the World Cup Finals.  Omaha’s biggest show, The International, comes to town April 11th and 12th this year and serves as a trial run for hosting large-scale, international caliber competitions.  A few short weeks after the International some of the supporters make a trip to Switzerland to pitch Omaha to the FEI. Personally, I’m all for more upper level horse sports on US soil! Go Omaha! [More from Omaha.com]

Monday Video: It isn’t too early to get excited about Rolex.  Check out some classic footage from 1978.

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Sunday Links from ERS-Eventing.com

By on Feb 9, 2014 12:01 am -
Running errands on rainy days? I've never been so fashion forward! Running errands on rainy days? I've never been so fashion forward!

The rain has finally come to California.  It blasted us hard all day Saturday which meant for me, no riding and a chance to go do “regular people things”, like hit the grocery store.  Of course, these things can only be accomplished after a stop at the barn.   There’s nothing quite like tromping through the aisles with unidentified barn muck on your boots and pony snot all over your favorite barn jacket.  As I headed to the check out, I noticed that the last person in line was sporting black knee high boots, tan pants and tweed coat. As I drew closer I realized she was merely sporting the Equestrian Look and not One Of Us.  I stood in line behind her for a moment fiddling with my phone while she gave me a once over out of the corner of her eye.  I had to smirk when she sort of side stepped to put some distance between the two of us. I guess she didn’t realize that barn-funk is needed if you really want to complete the ensemble.

Events This Weekend:

Pine Top [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Ocala Horse Properties Winter II HT [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Sunday Links: 

After 14 Years On Job, Police Horse Retires

How To Get Horses In To The Winter Olympics

Government Boost For Canadian Horse Breeding

Oregon 4th Graders Helped Pass 1971 Horse Protection Law

Bill Proposes To Shield Horse Owners From Consequences of State Supreme Court Case Weighing Whether Or Not Horses Are Inherently Vicious Animals

Mounted Patrol Supporters Launch Drive To Save Horse Unit

Sunday Video:  Pierre Doriola – an Olympic feat that has survived over 50 years. Until the start of the Rio 2016 Olympics, no other equestrian jumping athlete will have won two individual Olympic gold medals

ERS-Eventing

Taking The Long Way There

By on Feb 6, 2014 4:30 pm -
I slept on the couch the last time I said this to my husband. It's not my fault he called while I was at a horse show. I slept on the couch the last time I said this to my husband. It's not my fault he called while I was at a horse show.

I spent last night curled up in my computer chair with a myriad of websites and spreadsheets open, as well as several different pens and calendars spread out across my desk. With the show season underway, I have been excitedly planning every little detail about the year ahead.

When Team DF took off for Rebecca Farm last year, I found myself obsessively refreshing Facebook, score stalking and desperately trying to find last-minute tickets. Watching the trailer haul out last summer, Stephanie (my barn mate and BFF of 20 years) and I set a goal for ourselves: We would join them on that adventure the next time they headed off to Kalispell. We would take on the Novice Three-Day at Rebecca Farm.

With that thought in mind, I had planned to try to move up at the end of last year. Life got in the way, and it didn’t happen. This year, we are on target to tackle Novice. Bigger fences, faster speeds and those ever treacherous down banks are all in my immediate future. All I need is four qualifying scores, and I will be ready to make the trek to Big Sky Country to don the maroon pinny.

Last night’s binge planning brought me back to reality. There is no reasonable way, as an adult amateur with a regular 9-5 job, that I can make this happen this year while maintaining my sanity. I would need to have those scores in place by May 27.

Yes, technically, it is possible. There are eight events in Area VI that I could show at to get the needed scores. Two of those are at Galway Downs and one is at Copper Meadows. Both Copper and Galway are an 8-hour haul, and even though I like road tripping, I can’t help but think about all of the additional time off of work just for travel that those trips would need when compared to the three-hour hauls for Woodside, Twin Rivers and Fresno County Horse Park. Additionally, one of the FCHP events is during Rolex and I already took a ton of time off of work for that. (I am not missing the Eventing Nation tailgate party!) Ultimately, this leaves me with exactly four opportunities to get the needed scores. This also leaves me with zero room for error.

I’m not going to pressure myself like that. I am an adult amateur, not someone trying to make a team or catch the attention of selectors. It makes no sense to rush around and feel guilty about taking time off of work and spending gobs of money when my primary objective is to have fun.

Goals, priorities and perspective change. Certainly, I still want to take on the Novice Three-Day at Rebecca, but there are so many other adventures just waiting to be had. In addition to the recognized events, my little red organizer is filled with clinics, local jumper shows, combined tests and unrated events. It is filled with opportunities for fun.

My qualifying scores will happen. I don’t need to chase them. They will show up on their own schedule as an extra reward along the way — as documentation of the adventure.

Go Team DF. Go Detours. Go Eventing.

Monday News and Notes from Success Equestrian

By on Feb 3, 2014 12:44 am -
Winner of the Open Preliminary division at Galway Downs this past weekend, Robyn Fisher. Photo by Bill Olson Winner of the Open Preliminary division at Galway Downs this past weekend, Robyn Fisher. Photo by Bill Olson

What a great weekend!  I almost need another weekend just to recover from the weekend.  The West Coast was positively vibrating with activity and it doesn’t appear to be stopping any time soon, but it does have the potential to be interrupted.  Ladies and Gents of EN, consider this your official eleven day warning for Valentines Day. This year it falls on a Friday, which is a prime horse-showing day. You can certainly work this to your advantage. Your significant other may want to do something sweet for you, like a romantic dinner.  This year, don’t be afraid to ask for what you really want: someone to hold your water for you and take video during your ride as well as to hold your horse when you have to make a bathroom stop.  That sounds like a lot, but the way to sell it is all in the phrasing: “You know what I’d -really- love?  If you came to the horse show and then we went to dinner together, afterward.”  Careful though, this request usually only works once.

Weekend Results

Poplar Place February HT [Final Scores]

Sporting Days February HT [Final Scores]

Galway Downs Winter HT [Final Scores]

Events Opening This Week

Poplar Place Farm March H.T. (GA, A-3) Carolina International CIC and Horse Trial (NC, A-2)

Monday News and Notes:

The FEI has finalized the officials for the 2014 WEGs in Normandy.  Gillian Rolton of Australia will serve as the President of the Ground Jury.  Other members of the Ground Jury are Alain James (FRA) and Ernst Topp (GER).  The TD will be Alec Lochore (GBR), assisted by Ataid Pereira (BRA).  Course designer Pierre Michelet (FRA) and chief steward Jürgen Petershagen (GER) round out the ist of officials for eventing. [More from TheHorse.com]

Everyone is talking about the Budweiser commercial, even non-horse people.  If you’re curious about what goes on behind the scenes to shoot a commercial like this, check out this article from the LA Times. [More from TheLATimes.com]

It’s kind of odd that Ocala thinks of itself as the Horse Capital of the World, yet is not home to any race-meets.  David Miller makes some interesting points about the benefits and challenges of bringing racing to Ocala in an opinion piece. [More from Ocala.com]

Emerald Downs is buzzing with activity once again.  Training has begun for the 2014 racing season.  Over two hundred horses are reported to be on the grounds already.  This is expected to rise as April approaches.  Sounds like a fine time to swing by with a trailer and check out some OTTB prospects!  [More from CourierHerald.com]

Remember China’s first Olympic equestrian, Alex Hua Tian?  He was recently interviewed by CCTV regarding horses and his riding career.  He has high hopes that more people in China will become involved in horse sports.  [More from CCTV.com]

It’s that time of year.  Various national organizations are making the needed adjustments and changes to their programs in an effort to be competitive on the world stage.  Even the best programs can continue to get better.  NZ Eventing has had some recent changes, including the appointment of Penny Castle as the Performance Director.  This is an entirely new role within the NZ Eventing community. [More from Scoop.co.nz]

Monday Video:
Most horse-people take Monday off, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take a lesson… from Goofy.

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Sunday Links from ERS-Eventing.com

By on Feb 2, 2014 12:18 am -
Thunder, the Denver Broncos Mascot. Screenshot from NFL.com Thunder, the Denver Broncos Mascot. Screenshot from NFL.com

Hooray for Sunday!  Today there’s some big important football game on the television. Honestly, I prefer hockey to football, but I will probably end up catching a few minutes of the game here and there.  Super Bowl commercials always prove entertaining and there’s guaranteed to be a pony spotting or two as they flew Thunder, the Broncos mascot, in for the game.  For now though, I’m off to ride.  So, um, Go Denveattle Bronhawks! That’s a team, right?

Events This Weekend:

Poplar Place February HT [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Sporting Days February HT [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Galway Downs Winter HT [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Sunday Links:

Clydesdale Commercial Mania!

Watch for Broncos’ Horse On Sunday

Horse Rider Killed in Accident at Wellington identified as Anne Heyman

Roswell, New Mexico, Divided On Horse Slaughterhouse Plan

Police Horse Punched In Perth

Who Wins With The Carriage Horse Ban

FEI Announces Officials for 2014 WEGs

Sunday Video: 

For me, the only reason to watch the Super Bowl is for the Clydesdale commercials.  Last year’s was my favorite, this year’s is pretty sweet and this one is a close third.

ERS-Eventing

Budweiser Releases 2014 Clydesdale Super Bowl Commercial

By on Jan 29, 2014 10:08 am -

Spoiler alert: The main reason to watch the Super Bowl, the Budweiser Clydesdale commercial, has just been released on YouTube! This means you can watch it now and enjoy Sunday with your equine friends instead of glued to the couch waiting for the commercials. Also, the Clydesdale in the commercial has cute knees and a decent canter; maybe he wants to become someone’s Novice superstar?

Monday News and Notes from Success Equestrian

By on Jan 27, 2014 12:01 am -
A successful weekend! John Robertson at Fresno County Horse Park. Photo via Facebook courtesy of Tayside Sport Horses, LLC A successful weekend! John Robertson at Fresno County Horse Park. Photo via Facebook courtesy of Tayside Sport Horses, LLC

It’s official!  Show season is underway on both coasts!  I am impossibly excited. The simple joy of checking scores and seeing pictures of smiling faces with scoresheets and ribbons was very missed.  Once the season’s first outing takes place, the evenings and weekends spent planning trips and daydreaming about the amazing season ahead become so much sweeter.  It is like that first strawberry of summer – small and still a bit tart, firm as you bite in to it, but undeniably a strawberry and a promise of even better things to come.  Yum.

Weekend Results:

Rocking Horse Winter I HT  [Final Scores]

Full Gallop January HT  [Final Scores]

Fresno County Horse Park CT [Final Scores]

Events Opening This Week:

Pine Top Spring H.T. (GA, A-3) Copper Meadows H.T. (CA, A-6) Feather Creek Farm H.T. (OK, A-5)

Monday News and Notes: 

The Aiken Eventing Gala is less than a month away!  The Gala is designated as a benefit for the Land Rover US Eventing Team and is a great opportunity to come out and support them in their quest for Gold at the WEGs.  The Gala will be held at StableView Farm in Aiken, SC.  If you wish to attend, please make sure your RSVP is in by February 7th!  For more information, reach out to Bryn Wells via email at [email protected] or by calling 859.225.6948.

It just became easier for eventers to don helmet cams in Britain!  British Eventing Press Officer Nina Lloyd Jones told us this morning via email that the organization has loosened its rules on helmet cams. “Before now, riders used to be required to tell us every time they were using a hat cam at a BE event and also to notify us every time they were posting the videos online, but they don’t need to anymore. They just have to sign the agreement, and then they can use the footage (within terms of the agreement),” Nina said. A show of hands for who wants to see a William Fox-Pitt helmet cam?

A 28 year old man died in an incredibly tragic trailering accident in Montana over the weekend.  A further three people were injured and one horse euthanized due to the accident.  A horse trailer came unhitched the truck that was towing it, crossed the center line and struck an oncoming vehicle.  [More from greatfallstribune.com]

In New Mexico a horse sale turned violent, leaving one man in critical condition due to a gunshot wound.  From what authorities have been able to piece together so far the situation took a bloody turn as part of an altercation related to the price of the horse.  The suspect has been identified but fled the scene and has yet to be found.  [More from abqjournal.com]

The mustang and wild burro situation in the western United States is a hot mess.  The federal government is responsible for an estimated 40,000 wild horses and burros roaming in the west.  In addition, there are almost 50,000 held and cared for at various holding facilities around the country. The situation is beyond critical and no one seems to have any good answers.  [More from washingtonpost.com]

Set your DVR’s, Weird Al Yankovic is voicing a character for My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic.  The episode is set to air February 1st and features Yankovic as a pony named Cheese Sandwich.  This promises to be at least as entertaining as the time that Conan O’Brien called a horse-race at Santa Anita.  [More from USA Today]

Clive Smith, owner of legendary steeplechaser Kauto Star, is getting in to the eventing game.  With the input of Team Britain’s chef d’equipe, Smith has purchased Pamero 4 and is giving Laura Collett the ride.  Collett and Smith already have an established working relationship as Collett is the trainer that has been retraining Kauto Star for Dressage after his retirement from steeplechasing.  [More from Horse and Hound]

Monday Video:

Yesterday we shared Peter Atkins’ helmet cam from Rocking Horse.  Today, we take a step back and check out the Advanced track from Rocking Horse in 2010 from behind those same ears.

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Sunday Links from ERS-Eventing.com

By on Jan 26, 2014 12:01 am -
Last year's tearjerker from Budweiser. Last year's tearjerker from Budweiser.

Wow, is January seriously almost over already?  This is insane.  We are fast approaching Superbowl Weekend  Puppy Bowl and Awesome Commercial Day.  I’m pretty interested to see what Budwiser does this year.  Last year, I was out to dinner at a shabu place with my husband and some friends when Budwiser’s commercial came on. It was the cheesy, saccharine kind of horse-related sweet that hit me like a ton of bricks.  I started crying, like a giant sap, right there in the middle of the stupid restaurant.  My husband, a bit weirded out by the sight of me all teary eyed, asked me “Did the beer commercial get you in the feels?” The phrasing made me laugh, but I still can’t watch that commercial without getting a little misty eyed.  It still gets me “in the feels”.

Weekend Events and Scores:

Rocking Horse Winter I HT  [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times][Live Scores]

Full Gallop January HT [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Fresno County Horse Park CT [Live Scores] http://eventingscores.com/eventsr/fresno/ct0114/

Sunday Links:

Rumors of Mysterious Kentucky Horse Disease False

From HorseNation: How To Buy A Saddle Online

Cops Chase Fugitive Horse Through Long Island Neighborhood

GVRDC Future Plans Are Inspiring (And Include Area I Championships!)

Firefighters Rescue Horse Stuck In Mud and Ice

California Chrome Shines In California Cup Derby

10 Things You Didn’t Know About The Last Wild Horses On Earth


Sunday Video:  Seriously. Get a tissue.

ERS-Eventing

On Crowdfunding and Syndication

By on Jan 24, 2014 10:30 am -
Richard Spooner is crowdfunding his next Grand Prix horse. Screenshot from rockethub.com Richard Spooner is crowdfunding his next Grand Prix horse. Screenshot from rockethub.com

Crowdfunding is huge these days. It seems as though everyone has the next great idea that could make millions, if only they had the funding. The power of the crowd is mighty, and it seems that Grand Prix show jumper Richard Spooner is trying to tap in to it. I keep seeing the link pop up on my Facebook feed with one of two reactions. The first: “How awesome/smart/clever! It’s hard to afford top level horses these days!” The second is the polar opposite: “This is appalling and trashy.”

I’m not entirely opposed to crowdfunding. I’ve watched it help great ideas like Goldieblox get off the ground. (Full disclosure, my cousin Beau Lewis is married to Debbie Sterling, GoldieBlox CEO.) People with great ideas are out there; worthy causes exist, and I am happy to offer the occasional bit of green to help someone reach a dream.

However, in this instance, it doesn’t sit right with me. It seems tacky and cheap to have gone about it this particular way. A big-name rider beating the “even-10-bucks-will-help” drum comes off as utterly entitled and out of touch. Horses are a luxury. Horses are out of the reach of so many, and it seems insincere to offer a buy-in of $10.

There are those who hope something like this brings new people to the sport, as well as renews interest in owning high-level sport horses. I’m not so sure that holding out your virtual hat on the internet and hoping $500,000 drops in to your lap is the best way to draw attention in a day and age where we have articles on major news sites about how the middle class can’t even afford to go to chain restaurants anymore.

Maybe the backlash is because Spooner has already made it to the level so many of us dream about and aspire to, or that I’ve seen a better model that is already in existence — syndication. Syndication at first glance can look like Spooner’s crowdfunding in that someone is asking for money for a fancy horse, but that is where the similarities end.

In a well-run syndicate, there is a plan, a budget and decisions made about what to do with prize money or if the horse is injured. Syndicate members buy in to actual ownership activities and decision-making processes, though often deferring to and dependent on the rider’s expertise and vision. Syndicate members maintain their shares in the horse with additional funding as well. They are part owners.

Crowdfunding a horse for a big-name rider, on the other hand, is just chucking money at someone so they can buy a horse and go off and have a grand time. There is no contract and no accountability back to the people who threw in, save for whatever the fund-seeker chooses to offer. Crowdfunding of a horse is a dressed-up version of “won’t someone buy me a pony?” There are some serious brass balls involved in the Spooner scenario, especially considering this is a horse that we can safely assume he expects to go out and win buckets of money.

Personally, if I had extra cash to burn, I would rather throw my benjamins at a trainer so that my co-worker’s horse crazy, city-dwelling niece or nephew could have a riding lesson or two. My money goes much further that way in sharing in horses and supporting the community.

Were I a rich woman, I would be all over syndication. It can do amazing things. The day may come when I can no longer ride and somehow have extra money in my bank account; maybe that’s when I’ll buy in to a syndicate. Syndication works because it is an opportunity to buy in to a horse, a relationship, a community and the sport. Crowdfunding can’t accomplish that.

Best of Craigslist: Horse Hay Feeder $250

By on Jan 22, 2014 4:30 pm -

This is the ultimate feat of what a friend of mine likes to call man-genuity. I just call it good ol’ fashioned dumb. Have you spotted something awesome on your local Craigslist? Let us know about it at [email protected].

Horse hay feeder – $250

bestofcraigslistplayhousefeeder

Heavy duty plastic horse hay feeder. The wife was going to buy one of those $600 plastic hay feeders when I came up with this idea. I bought the house, modified it to make the windows bigger & custom built a pallet base to keep the hay off the ground. Up to five or six horses can eat at the same time & they don’t scatter the hay as bad as with hay rings. I had the metal rings before and know how much hay you loose due to weather & due to the horses scattering. Since it has a roof it also keeps the hay dry. One adult can move this. I put it out every winter for the horses, then put it back in the barn come Spring. (hay feeder sits on pallet base but is not fastened to it. Custom Pallet base has some raised braces that keep the feeder on the pallet through wind or the horses bumping / pushing it) Includes the pallet base $250 931-xxx-xxxx

Monday News and Notes from Success Equestrian

By on Jan 20, 2014 12:02 am -
Ahoy mateys, 'tis John Holling! Plundered from John's Facebook Page. YARR! Ahoy mateys, 'tis John Holling! Plundered from John's Facebook Page. YARR!

Avast ye, EN! I hear tale a scallywag of a pirate got a wee spot o’ something in his eye!  Seriously though, getting something in your eye sucks and having to wear a patch because of it sucks a bit more.  At least John Holling appears to be having fun with it.  Too bad Talk Like A Pirate Day isn’t until September.  In all seriousness though, today is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and I always find it a bit amazing to think back on the history of the holiday.  It blows my mind that it twelve years after Martin Luther King Jr’s death for the holiday to be established and then another three years for the first observance.  Even then it took until 2000 for all 50 states to officially observe the holiday.  Amazing stuff.

Weekend Results
Poplar Place January HT: [Website] [Ride Times][Live Scores]

Events Open or Opening This Week
Opened December 24, 2013 Closing Soon!
Ocala Horse Properties Winter II H.T. (Florida, A-3) Full Gallop Farm February H.T. (South Carolina, A-3) Pine Top Winter H.T. (Georgia, A-3)

Opened December 31, 2013
Paradise Farm H.T. (South Carolina, A-3) Fresno County Horse Park CIC & H.T. (California, A-6) Rocking Horse Winter II H.T. (Florida, A-3)

Opened January 07, 2014
Pine Top Spring Advanced HT (Georgia, A-3)

Opened January 14, 2014
Twin Rivers Winter H.T. (California, A-6) Rocking Horse Winter III H.T. (Florida, A-3)  MeadowCreek Park – The Spring Social Event (Texas, A-5) Full Gallop Farm February H.T. (South Carolina, A-3) Sporting Days Farm Horse Trials (South Carolina, A-3)

Open January 21, 2014
Red Hills International Horse Trials & Trade Fair (Florida, A-3) Southern Pines H.T. (North Carolina, A-2) Full Gallop Farm March H.T. (South Carolina, A-3)

Monday News And Notes: 

The Area 2 Annual meeting is coming up next Saturday and online registration is available.  Some great guest speakers are scheduled to appear, including Brian Ross regarding the new Dressage tests, the Schramms, and a vet with a presentation on joint disease.  In addition, there will be the Adult Riders and Young Rider’s meetings and an awards luncheon.  Also, don’t forget that Area 2 is currently running an online silent auction with many great items.  The items include a lot of entries, some schooling passes and a photo shoot.  Every HT in the area is offering an entry! [Check out the Auction here] [Meeting Information Here]

West coast riders, there is still time to snag one of the few remaining spots in the Lucinda Greene clinic coming up January 31st and February 1st at Fresno County Horse Park! This is a great opportunity to ride with one of the best in the world.  The price for the clinic is $400 for FCHP members or $420 for non-members.  This includes facility use for the two days.   If you are interested in one of the few remaining spots, please reach out to clinic organizer Sue Funkey Please note stabling is at an additional cost and can be arranged by contacting John Marshall.  [More at Fresno County Horse Park’s Website]

Horse slaughter has been blocked once again, this time by the federal budget.  President Obama has signed a budget measure that withholds money required for federal inspections of the slaughter process. The measure does provide temporary funding for the government, but the Agriculture Department can not spend the money for the required inspections that would allow slaughterhouses to ship horse meat interstate and export it overseas. [More from USA Today]

Sometimes all you need is a new name!  What was originally called the Melbourne International Three Day Event will now be known as the Melbourne International Horse Trials and boast $50,000 AUD in prize money.  The event runs at Werribee Park in June.  [More from WeeklyTimesNow.com.au]

Animal friendships are one of the fastest ways to get me to go ‘awwww’.  In Ireland a red deer has taken up with a herd of horses.  He showed up a few months ago and initially stayed away from the horses, but now he appears to have a BFF in a black and white pinto nicknamed Charlie. [More from Independent.ie]

A sentencing date has been set for Jaci Rae Jackson who was responsible for the theft of five horses from the Southern Arkansas University rodeo team’s stables last year.  She faces up to 30 years in prison in Arkansas and up to 25 in Oklahoma.  One of the horses was ultimately found dead while the others were recovered malnourished.   [More from UALR Public Radio]

Avast Ye, Monday Video off the starboard bow!

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Sunday Links from ERS-Eventing.com

By on Jan 19, 2014 12:01 am -
"There's a large amount of chatter, Jim. They're up to something."

It’s been a rough start to 2014, hasn’t it?  It seems like we just can’t get a break. We’ve had the tragic loss of some top event horses, drought status and unprecedented fire danger being declared in California and now the Polar Vortex coming back to give the East coasters another taste of bitter cold. Don’t despair though, EN.  Things will start looking up soon as we are only 93 days away from the first horse inspection at Rolex! Also, I probably shouldn’t tell you guys this, but the EN chinchillas are hard at work planning what can only be described as epic insanity for Rolex. Seriously, you won’t want to miss it.

Events This Weekend:

Poplar Place January HT: [Website] [Ride Times][Live Scores]

Sunday Links:

New Federal Budget Effectively Bans Horse-Meat Processing 

Year of the Horse: Silver Stallion Heads To Vegas

Horses Evacuated From California Wildfires

Penn National Tests Horse Showing EHV-1 Symptoms

Horse Burial Rules Debated in Iowa

Woman Fed Up With Horse Poop In Her Neighborhood

Sunday Video:

ERS-Eventing

ERS-Eventing.com provides riders with an interactive online portal that showcases product information, demonstrations, tutorials and reviews from fellow competitors and top international riders.

Ludwig Svennerstal Moving to Mark Todd’s Yard

By on Jan 18, 2014 4:00 pm -
No, that's not James Bond, it's Mark Todd's new yard mate Ludvig Svennerstal and Alexander at Badminton 2013! Photo by Jenni Autry. No, that's not James Bond, it's Mark Todd's new yard mate Ludvig Svennerstal and Alexander at Badminton 2013! Photo by Jenni Autry.

Hot on the heels of the sale of his Olympic mount Shamwari to Boyd Martin, Ludwig Svennerstal is packing up his horses and moving in with Mark Todd at Badgerstown. All six of his horses including, King Bob and Alexander, are moving and Ludwig has high hopes for Badminton in May.

From ludwigsvennerstal.com

Ludwig is moving his string of 6 horses to Mark Todd at Badgerstown, at the end of January. This includes his top horses King Bob and Alexander aimed at Badminton in May.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity of training side by side with one of the world´s best event riders through all times,” says Ludwig.

“It will be very inspiring, and give me a chance to be in a professional environment with great facilities,” continues Ludwig, who is hoping for a medal at the World Equestrian Games in August.

As Ludwig is reorganizing his stable with horses and is hoping to replace Shamwari with a younger horse, with Rio de Janeiro 2016 in mind, he feels excited about the future.

The location of Badgers Town is ideal as it is close to many events and to the M4 which makes it easy to communicate to the rest of England and Europe.

I took just enough Swedish in college to flirt with the hot exchange student.  That said, Lycka till Ludwig!

Lionheart Euthanized Following Colic Surgery Complications

By on Jan 18, 2014 2:23 pm -
Lionheart with William Fox-Pitt. Photo by Samantha Clark. Lionheart with William Fox-Pitt. Photo by Samantha Clark.

Allison Springer has just announced via Facebook that Lionheart has been euthanized following complications from colic surgery. While it initially seemed like Lion was doing better and would pull through after his first surgery on Monday, a second surgery revealed that a vascular accident had occurred in the colon, and both the small and large intestines were irreparably damaged, according to the statement. The EN team extends our condolences during this incredibly tragic time. This has been an unbelievably difficult start to 2014.

From Allison Springer Eventing on Facebook:

Lionheart, the spectacular event horse, owned by Team Lionheart Syndicate LLC and ridden by Allison Springer has succumbed to complications from a week long colic episode. Lionheart, a 12 year old Westphalian gelding, was euthanized after the second of two abdominal surgeries. Surgery revealed that a vascular accident had occurred in the colon and both the small and large intestines were irreparably damaged.

When the colic first presented last Monday, Lionheart was immediately taken to Palm Beach Equine Medical Center on the advice of Allison’s veterinarians Dr. Kent Allen and Dr. Susan Johns at Virginia Equine Imaging. Lionheart was under the care of Dr. Bob Brusie and Dr. Kathleen Timmons and the staff of Palm Beach Equine who worked tirelessly during the last week giving emergency and supportive care to the horse around the clock. A team of experts consulted on the complex colic case during the week and finally it was decided to re-explore the abdomen this morning.

Upon further exploratory surgery, it was obvious that despite his valiant battle Lionheart would not survive. Allison was with him stallside for long hours every day and most nights during his struggle and ultimately made the final decision with collaboration of her veterinary team. Allison said, “This was one of the most challenging and heartbreaking weeks of my life. Lionheart dealt with this as the true champion he was, never giving up. In the end, when the time came and there were no more options. I’m very appreciative of the tremendous veterinary effort made to save Lionheart.”

Dr. Bob Brusie commented on the cause, “the horse had excellent care and there was nothing in the history that would explain the vascular accident that comprised the small intestine and then over time went on to overwhelm the cecum and large bowel. This sort of vascular accident, similar to a stroke, is very unusual in my experience.”

Lionheart, previously ridden by William Fox-Pitt and a silver medalist at the London Olympics, was one of the promising hopefuls expected to help the US Eventing Team be even more competitive at the upcoming World Equestrian Games and Rio Olympics. David O’Connor, US Eventing Team Adviser said, “I’m devastated for Allison’s loss and offer her my deepest sympathy.”

Allison Springer expressed her sincere appreciation to each member of the Team Lionheart Syndicate and her dedicated veterinary support team for their tireless effort and care during this difficult time.

Angled Fences Abound on Day 2 of Hawley-Bennett Awad Clinic

By on Jan 16, 2014 4:30 pm -
Jennifer McFall's young horse Classic Twain DF in the Hawley Bennett-Awad clinic at Dragonfire. Photo courtesy of Dragonfire Farm Jennifer McFall's young horse Classic Twain DF in the Hawley Bennett-Awad clinic at Dragonfire. Photo courtesy of Dragonfire Farm

The second day of the Hawley Bennett-Awad clinic at Dragonfire Farm in Wilton, Calif., was just as challenging as the first. Perhaps even more so as we all partied a bit hard at the McFall’s house on Saturday night. Red wine, food and Team DF always results in very good times.

The morning started out with fog and cold, sending most of the spectators seeking additional jackets. By afternoon, it was gorgeous. Building off the previous day’s themes of accuracy and adjustability, Hawley had riders work through a series of four fences set at right angles to one another about four strides apart. This exercise was excellent to ensure that the horses were on our aids and challenged our accuracy.

Certainly you could have ridden straight through and angled all of the fences, but Hawley was after accuracy, having us ride to the center of each fence. I particularly enjoyed this exercise, as I’ve been lazy about looking to my next fence lately, and it served as a good reminder to actively use my outside aids when turning. It also reminded me to not snap down and duck with my upper body at the waist when I jabbed myself in the throat with the handle of my crop.

From there, Hawley had riders come across the diagonal again through a triple (four strides to four strides). The final jump in the triple was actually part of the broken-line exercise and made for a nice pseudo-figure eight, as it was easy to go boldly across the diagonal but in order to come back through the broken line again, you really had to use your corner well to rebalance and collect.

Once it was established that the horses were responsive and riders were handling the turns well, additional challenges were added, including one where we landed off of a single and made a lefthand turn in six to a one stride, followed immediately by a right hand turn to a single in five. On the far side of the ring there was a very looky oxer-to-bounce combination that was very intimidating when it was first set up; but after seeing it tackled with virtually no problems all day long, it was very straightforward.

HBRingDay2

Everyone showed significant improvement from day one to day two. More fantastic pictures are on the Dragonfire Farm Facebook page.  Hawley is back at Dragonfire in a few short weeks, and I know everyone that attended is looking forward to having her back and curious as to what challenges she’ll bring next time.

Hawley Bennett-Awad Emphasizes Accuracy, Adjustability in Clinic

By on Jan 15, 2014 9:00 am -
Hawley, Jen and Caroline on Day 1 of the clinic at Dragonfire. Photo courtesy of Dragonfire Farm.

Hawley, Jen and Caroline on Day 1 of the clinic at Dragonfire. Photo courtesy of Dragonfire Farm.

Hawley Bennett-Awad dropped in for a wild time at Dragonfire Farm in Wilton, Calif., last weekend. Stretching over two days, the exercises and insights Hawley brought to the clinic were very valuable and educational for all levels. In order to be successful with the questions presented, you had to ride accurately and maintain your horse’s adjustability. One of the things I’ve always appreciated about Hawley’s clinics is that she holds even the Beginner Novice and Intro level groups to the same expectations as the Advanced groups. I rode in a BN/N group with Stephanie Nicora, Earl McFall and Taylor McFall.

One of the core exercises on the first day centered around accuracy and adjustability. Three jumps were set on a circle. If you imagine the circle as a clock, the fences were set at an easy five-strides apart, positioned around the clock face at  3, 6 and 9. In the morning group with Jennifer McFall and Caroline Dein, Hawley spoke for a moment about this exercise as a test of accuracy and the importance of holding the line.

First, the exercise was ridden five strides to five strides, then riders were asked to adjust and fit six strides in the same space without swinging wider on the track. Even though the fences were small, the exercise was a challenge for groups of all levels. I found this exercise extra challenging aboard my mare, who tends to be a bit hot and forward but is also willing to shrink her stride in to nothingness and bounce in place if I ride too much from my hand.

After this initial exercise, Hawley built on it by having riders tackle the circle exercise in five, go out across a four-stride line on the diagonal, return down the long side of the arena through a triple composed of large oxers with Christmas trees for fill and back to the circle exercise, this time fitting in six strides. With the triple on a slight downhill, it was easy for the horses to get a bit strung out, and the challenge was ultimately to get them back and bouncing to fit the six in.  Other variations of the course were explored as well.

HBDay1 Ring

Arena diagram for day one. Not to scale.

All of the riders that participated really brought their A-game to the first day of the clinic. Being in one of the later groups, it was very educational to watch the other groups work through the same exercise and courses a few times before I was tasked with the same. There are some fantastic pictures from the first day on Dragonfire Farm’s Facebook page  that are well worth checking out. (Also, sidenote — that sweet stone wall? I painted that!) If you prefer moving pictures, check out the video recap below. Day two’s exercises and arena layout coming up soon!