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Thursday News & Notes

By on Jan 16, 2025 1:30 am -

Another great example of the eventing community shines bright today with the latest post from Phillip Dutton and his family! Pictured above are Evie Dutton and Lee Lee Dutton with Rochelle Woodeshick, the owner of Tack Butter. Rochelle has donated a portion of proceeds from Tack Butter sales to aid in Lee Lee’s ongoing recovery from a riding accident in 2017. If you want to help out, pick up some luxurious Tack Butter here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

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

Ram Tap Combined Test (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

News & Reading

We’ve teamed up with Strides for Equality Equestrians to raffle off a private flat lesson with British Olympian William Fox-Pitt during his Ocala, FL clinic in March! Click here for more details on how to enter before the end of this month.

Team EN is hard at work on some very exciting things for 2025! To that end, we’ve love your feedback on merch as we look ahead to re-launching our much-loved line just for you, our readers! Click here to take a quick survey. We’d appreciate it!

The United States Eventing Association, Inc. (USEA) and the USEA Young Event Horse (YEH) Committee regretfully announce that the 2025 YEH Symposium, planned for Monday, Feb. 17 in Ocala, FL, has been cancelled. Following the great success of the event in 2024 and due to unforeseen changes in venue availability, the YEH Committee has made the difficult decision to cancel the upcoming educational event to ensure that the quality of the symposium is not sacrificed. Read more about this development here.

From Starter all the way to the top of the sport, the rider’s ability to identify and influence the rhythm, relaxation, balance, straightness, and adjustability of their horse is key, whether you’re riding on the flat or over fences. That was the big focus on Day 2 of the USEA Eventing Coaches Program (ECP) Symposium, held at Galway Downs. Read up on day two’s lessons here.

When EPA Elegance and her owner Shannon Daily ended up with a cheering section, complete with handmade signs, when they crossed the finish line as winners in the training/novice division at the Calais Horse Trials, held Nov. 23 in Powhatan, VA, it marked the end of a year-long nightmare that “Hazel” almost didn’t survive. Read the full story here.

Video Break

And just like that, it’s helmet cam season again! Ride along with Elisa Wallace and Tullymurry Fifi for their pipe opener at Majestic Oaks last weekend:

Wednesday News & Notes

By on Jan 15, 2025 12:01 am -

In the spirit of eventing and community, Pau winner from 2024 Caroline Harris announced that she will be running the Bath Half Marathon this year in support of the British Eventing Support Trust and Saffron Cresswell, a young event rider who was paralyzed from the chest down in a fall while competing at Bramham International last summer. You can read more about Saffron’s rehab journey here. If you’d like to contribute to Charlotte’s endeavor, click here to learn more.

U.S. Weekend Preview

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

Ram Tap Combined Test (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

News & Reading

In times of natural disaster, marginalized communities are often hit the hardest. Abriana Johnson has collected a directory of GoFundMe accounts dedicated to helping displaced Black families in the LA area after devastating wildfires destroyed thousands of homes and livelihoods. Click here to view the list.

On a pack trip in Wyoming’s Big Horn Mountains in 2018 with her family, Australia-born Zara Bewley encountered many memorable creatures—moose, mountain lions, and bears. But it was Sam, a stoic 4-year-old blue roan gelding she rode during the journey, who made the biggest impact on her life. Read the story of the “ultimate amateur partner” here.

Get some quick facts about this week’s USEA Eventing Coaches Program Symposium held at Galway Downs in Temecula, CA here.

The annual Painted Ponies Art Walk & Auction blazes into Carolina starting February 1! Always a popular local event for equestrians and non-horse people alike, the Painted Ponies help raise funding for the Carolina Horse Park Foundation each year. Click here to learn more about this year’s Auction.

Do horses actually enjoy being touched? Researchers looked at how therapy horses reacted to various types of patting on various body parts, when tied up or loose. Horse Sport reports more here.

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Prepping for your first FEI event this year? Go you! Here are some useful tips and tricks from Ride iQ and Jon Holling:

https://www.youtube.com/live/nlJYksir9Xw?si=Lb7NBmqNknq1ILHL

Tuesday News & Notes from Kentucky Performance Products

By on Jan 14, 2025 12:01 am -

As the wildfires in Los Angeles, CA continue to burn, several outposts for assistance have been set up to aid those affected. At the time of writing, the Palisades fire just to the north of Santa Monica is at 14% containment, while the other major fire, the Eaton fire to the north of Pasadena, is 33% contained.

Calabasas Saddlery is one such outpost, setting up a donation site where a large number of items is available for pickup by those displaced or otherwise affected by the fires. Additional donations are also being accepted for distribution into the community. You can find a list of what’s available and what is being accepted above or by clicking here. The Chronicle of the Horse has also compiled a list of ways to assist equestrians here.

Events Opening This Week

Full Gallop Farm March Wednesday H.T. (SC); Rocking Horse Winter III H.T. (FL); Twin Rivers H.T. (CA)

Events Closing Today

Galway Downs Kickoff H.T. (CA); Sporting Days Farm February H.T. II (SC); Three Lakes Winter I at Caudle Ranch (FL)

News & Reading

The FEI has proposed a working group in collaboration with other national federations, including USEF, to conduct further research into air vest technology. As air vests become more prolific outside of eventing, the need for additional research into manufacturer claims and efficacy of the vests has grown stronger. You can read more about this initiative and its goals here.

Tune in for the latest episode of the USEA podcast for a dive into all things rider fitness. Featuring host Nicole Brown as well as Olympian Boyd Martin and equestrian fitness coach Tony Sandoval, the episode will provide you with some insights on making 2025 your strongest year yet. Listen here or on your favorite podcast platform.

Count down to this year’s MARS Badminton Horse Trials, the first CCI5* on the UK calendar that will be here before we know it! Preview the various ticket offerings and need-to-know dates here.

Sponsor Corner: Kentucky Performance Products

New product alert! Kentucky Performance Products is pleased to announce AirWise™, a research-proven supplement designed to support normal airway function in horses facing respiratory challenges. AirWise is formulated with a diverse blend of potent antioxidants and micronutrients. These work synergistically to support a return to a healthier respiratory system in your horse. The end result: Helping horses perform at their best.

Learn more about AirWise here.

Video Break

Peter Wylde was kind enough to brave the cold in Pennsylvania and help me jump all of the horses. Conner aka Commando 3 is fired up for a big year!!

Posted by Boyd Martin on Monday, January 13, 2025

Nothing like the help of an Olympic show jumper to tune up your horses for the season! Here’s a look at Peter Wylde jumping Boyd Martin’s Commando 3 (owned by Yankee Creek Ranch) at Boyd’s home base in Pennsylvania.

Monday News & Notes from Futuretrack

By on Jan 13, 2025 12:01 am -

If your horse had a New Years resolution, what would it be? If we had to guess, probably something along the lines of “figure out a way to get dressage eliminated from eventing” or “make my mom understand that feeding times are simply suggestions” or “attempt to coat my ENTIRE body and not just one side with mud.” What would you add?

U.S. Weekend Results

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Scores]

News & Reading

Looking back, where were the Paris individual medallists three-and-a-half years before their podium moment? EquiRatings dives into the data behind the top finishers in Paris and what the implications are looking ahead to Los Angeles in 2028 here.

Bringing your future eventing prospect with you to a horse trial as a non-compete can be a wonderful educational opportunity for horses not used to the hustle and bustle of the show grounds. However, horses must be registered with the show office as a “non-compete” horse in order to be allowed on grounds. Bringing horses to an event to school, provide lessons, or to campaign for sale without registering them as a non-compete horse is strictly prohibited. Brush up on the rules surrounding non-compete horses in this Rule Refresher from the USEA.

How to identify and manage hoof abscesses—a common condition that often appears out of nowhere, with some tips from Practical Horseman’s Vet On Call column here.

The world’s official oldest horse has passed away at the age of 36. Read more here.

Video Break

Training up some future champions at The Billy Stud for some very important business!

Sunday Links

By on Jan 12, 2025 12:01 am -

Who are these pals at Phillip Dutton’s? None other than Phillip’s Rio Olympic bronze medal partner, Mighty Nice, and his Tokyo horse, Z, enjoying their time in retirement as pasture mates! Way to live up that well-deserved retirement, friends. We love to see it!

U.S. Weekend Preview

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Links & Reading

No, You Don’t Have To ‘Push Through Your Fear’ In Order To Get Over It

Through the Lens: 2024-2025 EA21 National Camp

Tackling Equine Gastric Ulcers

Jumping Lessons: One Exercise, Four Trainers, Four Ways

British Eventing National Championships return to Hartpury for 2025

Video Break

Tune in for a fascinating rider biomechanics ride review with rider biomechanics coach Suzanne Galdun and Ride iQ:

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Jan 11, 2025 12:01 am -

In 2024, we bid a very fond farewell to the beloved Blair Castle International in Scotland, which ran for the final time in 2024 after being a major part of the eventing calendar for over three decades. The team at EN would like to extend our gratitude to the hard-working individuals who worked tirelessly to put on one of the best events in our sport.

The competition calendar will not be left with a void in the literal sense, however, as Scone Palace in Perthshire, located further south of Blair Castle, will take over the competition from 2025 forward. You can read more about this transition here and here. The first Scone Palace International will take place August 21-24. Learn more about Scone Palace International here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Links & Reading

How To Help Equestrians Affected By LA Wildfires

‘To Say That It Felt Apocalyptic Is Putting It Lightly’: From the LA Wildfires

2024 RevitaVet USEA Young Rider of the Year Molly Duda Has Weathered the Ups and Downs of Top-Level Sport and Come Out Stronger

Improve your horse’s rideability and straightness with Harry Meade’s three-fence jumping exercise

The Connection Between the Rider’s and Horse’s Backs

Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands

What some ins and outs on your 2025 list? World Equestrian Brands has some for you!

IN
– XC boots that protect from impact and penetration
– XC boots that don’t rub
– XC boots that are lightweight and help legs stay cool

OUT
– XC boots that are stiff and cause rubs
– XC boots that add weight when going through water
– XC boots that trap heat

Find boots that are definitively IN on World Equestrian Brands here.

Video Break

New year, fresh start, still no idea how to remember my dressage test (but that’s a problem for next year) — who can relate?

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on Jan 10, 2025 12:01 am -

Another offseason, another year in which we are somehow NOT on safari holiday with Laura Collett (maybe next year), but we’re enjoying living vicariously through her and several other top eventers who have journeyed to Africa for a horseback safari tour. The FOMO is real!

U.S. Weekend Preview

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

Equestrian Australia is seeking a new Eventing High Performance Operations Coordinator to provide ongoing support to its eventing program at the top levels. Job duties include managing the eventing National High Performance Program’s operations and logistics, managing International eventing entries, FEI registrations and Passports for athletes based offshore, and other personnel support responsibilities. You can learn more about the position here.

Former Will Coleman 5* ride Tight Lines has entered his medal era, this time with #supergroom Erin Jarboe in the irons. “Phish” may be retired from eventing, but he still shows off in the dressage ring with Erin these days as she works toward her USDF Bronze Medal. Catch up with the Colemans, Erin, and Phish here.

Clinic alert! Belgian chef d’equipe and 5* rider Kai Steffen-Meier is coming stateside for a clinic in Ocala this winter. The clinic will take place at Redtail Ridge South January 27-28. Interested parties should contact O’Neal Equestrian here. Click here to learn more information.

Can any horse go barefoot? To explore the science behind hoof care, horseshoes, and farrier work over the last 50 years, Noëlle Floyd turned to one of the most accomplished farriers in the industry, Stephen Teichman, whose resume includes shoeing horses for kings and queens as well as at six Olympic Games and six Pan American Games. Read the piece on Facebook here.

How did a show jumper wind up as a part of the Beyoncé Bowl during her halftime performance at a recent Houston Texans game? The Chronicle of the Horse dives into a great story of connections and opportunities here.

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

Photo by Liz Crawley Photography.

Today is the final day to submit your late entry for the Stable View Aiken Opener H.T. next weekend (January 18-19)! This event offers recognized divisions from Starter through Preliminary, with courses rated as easy to average in the USEA Omnibus. It’s a perfect opportunity to kick off the season in a welcoming and lower-pressure environment. Also on tap are Stable View staples such as the Graze & Gaze offering of refreshments on Saturday evening, an Adult Team Challenge sponsored by Sunheist, and a $15 yoga class on Friday evening. You can enter here ($50 late fee applies). For more information on this event, click here.

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Andrew Hoy shares some insights on finding your distance to fences:

Thursday News & Notes

By on Jan 9, 2025 12:01 am -

Multiple major fires continue to burn in Los Angeles, CA this week, where strong winds and dry conditions have fueled the rapid spread of wildfires and forced residents from their homes. The fires have claimed the lives of multiple people and have also displaced animals. At the time of writing, the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, one of the largest facilities in the metropolitan area, remained safe and was an evacuation center for those fleeing the fires. The facility is located in Burbank, to the east of the fires, but the situation continues to develop and change and strong winds will continue to affect containment at least through today. The Chronicle of the Horse reports more on the effects of the fire on the equine community here.

We will continue to monitor the situation and will share verified ways to help as we find them.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

Travel the world, be around top sport, see your horses performing on the world stage. No one ever claims that a grooms’ life is an easy one, but this should be an attractive career. And yet we still hear too many stories of burnt out, exhausted grooms. In the latest blog from the International Grooms Association, an IGA member (who wishes to stay anonymous) shared how this issue has affected her life. Read it here.

The USEA recently asked its members on social media to tell them about their 2024 successes. Amateur rider Alyssa Schaefer (Petaluma, California) wrote in about her year with her 16-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding Fuego (Furst Romancier x Stanzie). Read her blog here.

Some British Olympians were not named to the government’s New Year Honours List, setting off an expression of opinions on the decision to award some Olympians and not others. Horse & Hound explores this development here.

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Learn how to introduce a liverpool to your jumping with 5* rider and FEI dressage judge Valerie Pride:

Wednesday News & Notes

By on Jan 8, 2025 12:01 am -

Florida training sessions are well underway for the USEF Eventing Development 25 riders who have the opportunity to learn from Developing coach Leslie Law. It’s that time of year to knock off the rust and start to get serious about some big goals for the season. In eventing, you can never stop learning!

U.S. Weekend Preview

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

Are you a current member or are considering joining the USEA Intercollegiate and Interscholastic League? There’s loads of information for you to brush up on about these programs in this primer.

Highlighting the importance of vigilance and a proactive response, this article on The Chronicle of the Horse calls for a collective effort to protect the welfare of horses and riders alike. This piece serves as a reminder of the responsibility we all share to speak up and take action when we witness unacceptable behavior.

The International Grooms Association shares a heartfelt piece reflecting on the invaluable lessons horses teach us every day. From patience and resilience to trust and communication, this article explores how working closely with these incredible animals shapes not only our careers but our lives as well. Read it here.

Practical Horseman dives into the common yet often frustrating issue of hoof abscesses in their latest “Vet on Call” article. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and best treatment practices to keep your horse comfortable and on the road to recovery here.

Video Break

Fifteen of the first 28 runnings of the Kentucky Derby were won by Black jockeys. They dominated the early years of Thoroughbred racing in the United States—and they were widely regarded as the best in the world. Watch more of the history:

Tuesday News & Notes from Kentucky Performance Products

By on Jan 7, 2025 12:01 am -

Did you miss CrossCountryApp’s round-up of the most inventive jumps found on courses around the world in 2024? It’s well worth a glance through! From the famous Stag jump in Paris, to a Taylor Swift theme, to colorful aboriginal art, and beyond, you won’t want to miss the full round-up here.

Events Opening This Week

Full Gallop Farm Mid-February H.T. (SC); Pine Top Advanced (GA); Three Lakes Winter II at Caudle Ranch (FL)

Events Closing Today

Rocking Horse Winter I (FL); Full Gallop Farm January H.T. (SC); Galway Downs Annual Fundraiser Clinic (CA)

News & Reading

US Equestrian wants to learn more about your body protector and air vest usage and preferences. Click here to take the survey if you are over 18.

Our partner, SmartPak, believes in creating a lasting impact across equine communities. That’s why they make a concerted effort each year to donate to organizations in need. Read their 2024 Give Back recap here.

We aren’t done recapping 2024 yet! If you’re a bookworm, this top list of horse-oriented books will fill up your shopping cart quickly!

Planning to attend the upcoming USEA Eventing Coaches Program workshop at Galway Downs in California next week? Meet the faculty you’ll be learning from here.

Capt. Mark Phillips hasn’t quite called time on his designing career yet, stepping in to design this year’s Agria Blenheim Palace International and the FEI Eventing European Championships in September. Read more on his reaction to the new posting here.

Sponsor Corner: Kentucky Performance Products

Did you know? Supplementation with vitamin E is most crucial during the winter when horses are fed diets almost exclusively composed of preserved forages.

Lack of vitamin E can result in:
– Sore, stiff muscles
– Poor immune system
– Neurological disorders

Elevate Maintenance Powder can be used to maintain adequate blood levels and is economical for long-term use.

Learn more at KPPusa.com.

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We can’t wait to see what’s on tap for this year’s cross country course at Defender Kentucky! Do you have your tickets yet?

Monday News & Notes from Futuretrack

By on Jan 6, 2025 12:01 am -

Exciting news to help you make your travel plans for the new year: the MARS Badminton ticket office is officially open for this year’s event (May 7-11)! Priority ticket booking begins today, dedicated for anyone who had signed up to access the sale early. If you missed out on the priority booking sign-ups, never fear, general tickets go on sale next Monday, January 13. Be sure to mark your calendars and we’ll see you in England! Click here to visit the Badminton box office.

U.S. Weekend Results

Sporting Days Farm January H.T. (SC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

Benefitting from the surge in sports betting stemming from legislation that has been enacted in recent years, the city of Philadelphia has awarded a $500,000 grant to the nonprofit youth polo and access program, Work to Ride, to help the organization build a new indoor arena. Read more about this grant here.

There’s much to glean from watching training sessions, even if they aren’t directly related to eventing. We’ve been following the USEF Horsemastership Sessions in Wellington, Fl., where show jumping legend Beezie Madden imparted some knowledge in the most recent day of training. Read about the session focused on adjustability and gymnastic work here.

There’s a lot of information out there now about the human microbiome and its function, but what about the equine microbiome? Is it time to start talking about this? The Horse dives in here.

Blindfolding horses removes visual stimuli ostensibly to make a frightened animal more reliant on the handler in emergencies, such as leading from a burning barn. An earlier study showed horses actually took longer to lead and displayed more avoidance and resistance behaviours when blindfolded. However, a large variation in individual response was noted, which could be due to temperament. Read up on some research dedicated to this here.

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Meet British 5* rider Simon Grieve and his string of horses over on his new YouTube channel:

Sunday Links

By on Jan 5, 2025 12:01 am -

It wouldn’t be a polar vortex without some very (happy) muddy barn dogs! Exhibit A: EN’s Abby Powell’s dog, Chief, making the most of the snow melt while his mom picked paddocks. No regrets, right?

U.S. Weekend Events

We’re back! The U.S. season kicks off this weekend in Aiken, and you’ll find links to events happening during the upcoming weekend here each Wednesday – Sunday in our News & Notes.

Sporting Days Farm January H.T. (SC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Links & Reading

Apply to participate in the GMHA Junior Horsemanship clinic by February 1

Bid on some great items and support the Maryland Combined Training Association

Proof of Concept Confirmed On Final Day of the 2024-2025 EA21 National Camp

2025 Horsemastership Series: Kursinski Emphasizes The Importance Of Releasing Pressure

Thousands of new training opportunities to benefit riders and former racehorses

Video Break

Meet the athletes at the first USEA Emerging Athletes Training Camp of 2025 this week in Florida:

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Jan 4, 2025 12:01 am -

If you missed out on this week’s closing date for the Stable View Aiken Opener H.T. January 18-19, never fear! Late entries are being accepted through January 10, and the Winter Combined Test will accept entries until January 8. Click here to learn more and register for an event at Stable View.

U.S. Weekend Events

We’re back! The U.S. season kicks off this weekend in Aiken, and you’ll find links to events happening during the upcoming weekend here each Wednesday – Sunday in our News & Notes.

Sporting Days Farm January H.T. (SC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

Catch up with 4* eventer and 2024 Road to the Horse champion Tik Maynard in this podcast interview with fellow horseman Phil Haugen.

How inheritance tax changes could hit equestrians, and other things the horse world is talking about

EquiRatings: 10 Things We Learned the Hard Way in Our 10 Years in Business

System Locked and Loaded on Day 3 of the 2024-2025 EA21 National Camp

Considerations to Reduce the Risk of Hindgut Upset

Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands

Equilibrium Products makes the highest quality boots on the market, and they are available via World Equestrian Brands!

Constructed using a proprietary layering system, while also staying ridiculously breathable. Click here to shop for Equilibrium products.

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A special tribute to an even more special pony:

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on Jan 3, 2025 12:01 am -

We may be a few days into a new year, but we’re still loving the 2024 recaps everyone has been sharing! What was the highlight of your year?

U.S. Weekend Preview

We’re back! The U.S. season kicks off this weekend in Aiken, and you’ll find links to events happening during the upcoming weekend here each Wednesday – Sunday in our News & Notes.

Sporting Days Farm January H.T. (SC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

In the heart of Ocala, Fl., where equestrian culture intertwines with a thriving art scene, two artists are using their talents to celebrate kindness, creativity and the timeless beauty of horses. Cara Van Leuven, a seasoned equine artist living with bipolar disorder, and Kelsey Mahoney, a Sharpie artist with Down syndrome, joined forces to create “Be Kind,” an exhibit on display through Jan. 4 at the Marion Cultural Alliance, and contribute to Brooke USA’s upcoming Divertimentos and Dressage fundraiser. Read the full story here.

Rounding up some of the horse health research that took place in 2024, this article from The Horse dives into the science of how horseshoes affect hooves. Read it here.

“Representation matters. Art matters. Storytelling matters. Beyoncé’s productions have not only celebrated Black culture but have elevated it on global stages, creating moments that spark conversations and inspire generations. Being part of this legacy is a responsibility I don’t take lightly. It motivates me to keep pushing for greater visibility and equity, whether it’s through my equestrian achievements, my academic pursuits, or my storytelling aspirations.” Read all about the incredible experience of equestrian Zoie Brogdon, who worked on Beyonce’s halftime performance in Houston last week, and why it mattered so much.

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

Catch up with the latest winter improvements happening at Stable View!

Video Break

The basics of dressage with Amelia Newcomb:

Thursday News & Notes

By on Jan 2, 2025 12:01 am -

Congratulations to British European Champion Nicola Wilson, who was awarded an MBE designation (Member of the Order of the British Empire) from the British monarchy to cap off 2024. Nicola’s top-level eventing career was cut short after a cross country accident at Badminton in 2022, but she remains a force within the sport, providing mentorship and coaching to other riders and also serving as a broadcaster for multiple CCI5* events and other competitions.

“I am speechless, (for the first time in my life!) shocked and unbelievably humbled to have received an MBE in the New Years Honours List,” Nicola posted on social media. “I have to say that when I got the letter I told my family but said it may be a joke and they mustn’t say anything until the announcement was made to see if my name was actually there….Then whilst teaching yesterday, the local paper rang and I thought with a nervous tummy, this isn’t a joke.

What an incredible honour and I am grateful to you all for helping me along this sometimes challenging journey through life but I feel incredibly lucky to have a life.”

U.S. Weekend Preview

We’re back! The U.S. season kicks off this weekend in Aiken, and you’ll find links to events happening during the upcoming weekend here each Wednesday – Sunday in our News & Notes.

Sporting Days Farm January H.T. (SC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

If you own an equestrian business, this article’s a great read for you as we kick into the new year. What marketing and business trends were evident across the equestrian industry in 2024? Read a recap from Equerry / Co here.

Can blockchain technology transform and modernize our industry? If you just opened a new tab to google “What is Blockchain?”, no judgement here. The Pegasus App surmises that blockchain technology (essentially, technology that enables the secure sharing of information across a network of computers) has the potential to revolutionize key aspects of the equestrian world, particularly horse shows, horse ownership, and management. Read more here.

The USEA EA21 National Training Camp is underway in Ocala, Fl., and you can read all about what the participants are learning here. The first day of camp focused on the importance of clear and consistent communication with their equine partners. The curriculum for the second day focused on the rider’s responsibilities and maintaining rideability.

The word “but” is part of a unique family of words and phrases called verbal erasers – words that have a nasty habit of unintentionally erasing positive things while encouraging you to focus on the negative. Just like the eraser on the end of you pencil that erases words that have been written (assuming you haven’t chewed it off!), verbal erasers erase words that have been spoken – even if those words are positive… and BUT is the most common eraser of all! Read more from Coach Daniel Stewart here.

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More scenes from EA21 camp:

What’s Happening? Your Guide to Horse Shows, Schooling, Clinics & More on STRIDER

By on Jan 1, 2025 9:00 am -

Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

“What’s Happening?,” presented in partnership with Strider, is your guide to horse shows, schooling opportunities, clinics and other riding and educational opportunities.

Need a way to accept digital entries and payment for your venue’s next equestrian activity? Join Strider, a mobile friendly, user-controlled services platform that connects organizers with riders. It’s easy and fast to use — click here to get started.

Here is what’s happening in your USEA Area!

Location Quick Links: Area I | Area II | Area III | Area IV | Area V | Area VI | Area VII | Area VIII | Area IX | Area X

Area I

Area II

Area III

Area IV

Area V

Area VI

Area VII

Area VIII

Area IX

Area X

Go Eventing.

Wednesday News & Notes

By on Jan 1, 2025 12:01 am -

Monica Spencer and Artist. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Happy New Year from all of us at EN! 2024 certainly was a whirlwind, and we’re eager to see what 2025 has in store for us. Whether or not you’re a resolution-maker, we hope this year brings you everything you’ve worked for and more.

U.S. Weekend Preview

We’re back! The U.S. season kicks off this weekend in Aiken, and you’ll find links to events happening during the upcoming weekend here each Wednesday – Sunday in our News & Notes.

Sporting Days Farm January H.T. (SC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

There are three movements most riders aren’t aware of that cannot be judged on talent as their proper execution is the result of correct training alone. These are exercises that riders should pay extra attention to as they are not only a gauge of the quality of your training, but also because they can be honed so that even less talented horses can received exemplary scores on them. Find out what they are here.

Take a look back on this year’s USEA Annual Meeting and Convention in Seattle, WA with the latest edition of the USEA podcast here.

Take an enlightening trip through history to see how helmets have changed over time. There was a period where safety was not as well-known and well-publicized when it came to riding, and helmet technology reflects this. See more here.

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A quick tip for doing basic stretches with your horse!

Tuesday News & Notes from Kentucky Performance Products

By on Dec 31, 2024 12:01 am -

It wouldn’t be the close of an Olympic year without a way to commemorate the accomplishment of becoming an Olympian! Karl Slezak (CAN) got some new ink to mark his first Olympic appearance with Hot Bobo in Paris this past summer. No word on whether he also got a Nickelback tattoo (or if he already has one!).

Events Opening This Week

Rocking Horse Winter II (FL); Ram Tap H.T. (CA); Jumping Branch Farm H.T. (SC)

Events Closing Today

Stable View Aiken Opener H.T. (SC); Ram Tap Combined Test (CA)

News & Reading

The first USEA Emerging Athletes training camp is happening this week, beginning today in Ocala, Fl. These riders were hand-selected following the five USEA EA21 Regional Clinics that took place in the summer of 2024 and will spend the week immersed in an educational experience like no other with classroom sessions, hands-on learning led by industry experts, and in-the-saddle instruction facilitated by O’Connor. Click here to read more fast facts about the week ahead.

Take a look back at 2024 through the lens of stories told on The Chronicle of the Horse throughout the year. Click here to read.

Horse & Hound tackles the topic of the blood rule in competition. Is it working? Why are they in place? Do stakeholders feel the regulations are working? Take a dive into this important topic here.

Sponsor Corner: Kentucky Performance Products

Tips for Feeding Special Needs Horses in the Winter

Preventing Weight Gain in Easy Keepers:

1. Some horses gain weight when given a winter break from trail riding, training, and/or showing.

2. Monitor your horse’s weight carefully during breaks and, if necessary, back off on concentrates.

3. When you feed less than the recommended amounts of a commercial concentrate, you need to supplement with a complete vitamin and mineral pellet (Micro-Phase ™) to ensure your horse’s nutrient requirements are met.

4. Never cut back on hay to reduce calorie intake; instead, change to a more mature grass hay that will provide plenty of fiber but less energy.

More tips for other special needs can be found here.

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A tribute to Ros Canter’s horse of a lifetime, Allstar B:

Monday News & Notes from Futuretrack

By on Dec 30, 2024 12:01 am -

Another chance to learn from British Olympian William Fox-Pitt is heading your way in March! Registration is now open for an upcoming clinic with William at Loch Moy Farm (Adamstown, Md.), March 9-11. You can register for this clinic on Strider here.

News & Reading

It’s time to start thinking about your goals for 2025. They don’t have to be lofty — heck, they don’t even have to involve riding! — but every goal deserves the time and consideration needed to make it a reality. Coach Daniel Stewart reflects on this in his final USEA blog of 2024 here.

How can you best help your horse recover from a joint injury, and what’s the best way to give him the best possible future post-recovery? You can always learn something new about caring for injuries, and this article from The Horse contains some good resources.

There is more than one way to improve your performance and wellbeing. Your horse will benefit from this too! Here are some no-cost ways to help yourself feel and perform better in the new year.

Read all about the journey of STRIDER CEO Tara Swersie & COO Natasha Sprengers-Levine in this feature from Sidelines Magazine.

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Catch one last highlight video from the 2024 Defender Burghley Horse Trials:

Sunday Links

By on Dec 29, 2024 8:30 am -

Photo via Lesley Grant-Law on Facebook.

A blast from the past kicks us off this Sunday morning from Lesley Grant-Law and Max Corcoran! Check out this incredible, star-studded entry list from the MBNA Foxhall Cup in 2002. Quite a few combinations we’d love to see kicking around cross country again if we had the chance. Who would be your pick to see again from this list?

Links & Reading

Rehabbing Your Horse: Two Ride iQ Hack Chats with Lauren Sprieser and Kyle Carter

Proposed Amendments to Bylaws will be Considered by the USEF Board of Directors at the 2025 Annual Meeting

Showing our love of horses – what we can all do to help secure equestrian sport’s future

Off to Dubai: Michi Jung’s Kilcandra Ocean Power becomes a teacher for young riders

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See how the actors on Yellowstone learned to ride for filming!

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Dec 28, 2024 12:01 am -

Don’t forget to get those votes in for the SmartPak/USEF Horses of the Year and USEF Equestrians of the Year honors, to be distributed at the upcoming Pegasus Awards Dinner at the 2025 US Equestrian Annual Meeting in Lexington, Ky. on January 23. Voting closes on December 31 at 11:59 p.m. EST, and two eventing athletes are up for the top honors, among many other accomplished horses and riders. Paris Olympian Liz Halliday was nominated for USEF Equestrian of the Year, while Will Coleman’s Paris reserve horse, Diabolo, is up for International Horse of the Year. Click here to learn more about the nominees and to cast your vote.

Links and Reading

Research In Action: Ice For Laminitis Just One Piece of A Complex Puzzle

The Best Blogs Of 2024 Made Us Reflect, Made Us Cry—And Sometimes Both

10 People Who Make More Than Horse Professionals

Best Practices for Handling Foals

Sugar and Peppermint Treats: Not Safe for All Horses

Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands

Horses’ noses are among their most sensitive body parts, and some horses need just a little extra reassurance. Look no further than the Equilibrium Net Relief, available on World Equestrian Brands. This non-invasive net helps treat headshaking, featuring contoured mesh for a comfortable fit over the muzzle that’s been shown to reduce headshaking by up to 79%. The Equilibrium Net Relief also is constructed to fit unique bridle shapes such as Grackle and Micklem. You can grab one for your horse here.

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Saddle up for a safari in South West Kenya!

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on Dec 27, 2024 12:22 am -

Stéphane Landois and Chaman Dumontceau. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Some bittersweet news about one of the most incredible stories from the eventing space this year. You may recall the horse Ride for Thais Chaman Dumontceau, a horse piloted at the Paris Olympics by Frenchman Stéphane Landois. Stéphane rode in honor of Chaman Dumontceau’s former rider, Thaïs Meheust, who passed away in a cross country accident in 2019. Though Thaïs sadly never realized her own dream of competing at the Olympics, Stéphane was able to realize this dream in tribute at the Paris Olympics, where they finished 14th individually and in silver as a team for France. Now, the 12-year-old Selle Francais gelding will move to a new rider, a yet-to-be-revealed young British rider. “We felt the need to close this book that is both so painful, so strong, so extraordinary and so paradoxical. Chaman is sold to England and will continue under the saddle of a young rider,” ownership group The Thaïs Meheust Foundation said in a story on An Eventful Life. You can read more about the story and the sale here.

News & Reading

Recap the best of 2024 with the help of the USEA in their annual look-back! Take a trip down memory lane for some of the top highlights from an action-packed season here.

Also recapping their year is The Chronicle of the Horse, where horse welfare has been, deservedly, top of mind in 2024. Check out some of the most-viewed stories on COTH here.

A sweet story of how a “grinch” of an OTTB helped give his amateur rider’s dreams wings — don’t miss it here.

Get to know Tina Cook’s daughter and rising eventing star Isabelle Cook in this sitdown interview with Horse & Hound.

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

Want to head into 2025 in a proper head space? Don’t forget that yoga, meditation, and sound baths can be found at Stable View! For just $30 a person, you can sign up for a December 30 sound bath session and yoga class at Stable View. Sign up here.

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Some wise words from Tamie Smith from her recent webinar with Horse Illustrated, which you can watch in full here.

Thursday News & Notes

By on Dec 26, 2024 12:01 am -

Remember THAT Opening Ceremony in Paris this summer? We sure do, and we know there was an absolute mountain of work that went into this history-making Olympic opener. A new film takes us behind the scenes of the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony, from the first concept sketches to the delivery of the entire show. You can watch the film here.

News & Reading

Client expectations are a major concern for vets

Saddle Fit Simplified

The Crystal Snowflake Case, Part I: A Pony Detective story

British Equestrian Delivers Road Map to Sustainable Future

You love your pony through their imperfections. Love yourself and your rider the same way…

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A fun training exercise with Elisa Wallace: