We’re very excited to see Boyd Martin’s Luke 140 back in action, competing in the Preliminary division at Morven Park over the weekend. After navigating some injuries following his fourth place finish at Luhmühlen in 2023, Luke returned this summer and definitely expressed that trademark “enthusiasm” in his dressage test at Morven Park. Now we want to know who draws straws to trot this horse at home, as we know he’s well-known for a good spook and spin! “Well, that was exciting at least!” Boyd wryly remarked after his test.
There are four USEA Young Event Horse program graduates competing this year at the MARS Maryland 5 Star. The development of the young event horse is a system that produces top horses for the future, and each year we see some of these graduates stepping up to the upper levels. [Meet the YEH Graduates at Maryland 5 Star]
Many eventing levels will require riders to drop off a bank of some sort on cross country. This is often paired at higher levels with some sort of narrow fence following the drop, which means you’d better have your balance and control back quickly to make the line. Phillip Dutton checks in with some advice on landing off the drop, finding the right lead on landing, and what you can set up to practice this concept. [Master the Drop with a Narrow Fence]
Grooms heading to Maryland this week! There are several things on tap just for you, including a Grooms’ Dinner and Groom Orientation hosted by the USEA Grooms’ Committee. The Dinner will be held on Tuesday, October 15 starting at 6:30 p.m. in the Athletes’ Lounge by FEI stabling. The Orientation will be held on Wednesday, October 16 at 6:00 p.m. at the Stabling Office. We’re also seeking nominations for our Supergroom Superlative awards, and you can make your nomination here.
Happening tonight! Join the Ride iQ team this evening at 5 p.m. EST for a live session with Jon Holling all about safety and keeping it in focus. Jon will provide his perspective as a Safety Committee member on how to keep safety first in your mind while still being able to enjoy your riding and your horses. [More information on this session]
It’s that time of year to start thinking about the switch that occurs when your horse has less pasture forage and more hay in the winter. Kentucky Performance Products is here to help to mitigate the risk here.
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Watch Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy clinch the CCI4*-L victory at Morven Park this past weekend:
We have international horses on the ground at the MARS Maryland 5 Star, presented by Brown Advisory! In just a couple of days, we’ll kick things off at the final 5* in the U.S., located in Elkton, MD. If you haven’t gotten your tickets to join us, you can still do so by clicking here.
Get your horse fitter with the oh-so-versatile cavaletti. Canadian Olympian Jessie Phoenix checks in with some of her top cavaletti tips for building strength and fitness here.
Read more on Allie Knowles’ and Starburt’s wire-to-wire victory in the USEA/USEF Developing Horse National Championship CCI2*-S at Morven Park this weekend here.
In the latest edition of Thoroughbred Logic over on Horse Nation, Aubrey Graham discusses how there’s something about Thoroughbreds that inspire community. Read it here.
You’ll see a very splashily-colored horse on the 5* track this week at Maryland, and she’s the ride of one Jessie Phoenix. Fluorescent Adolescent is making her 5* debut, and you can learn more about her history here.
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A very funny “where are they now?” update from Libby Head’s former 5* horse, Sir Rockstar:
A real “no scope, no hope” moment out of the mud pit that was Boekelo cross country yesterday! Laura Collett and Dacapo made short work of the course, leaving out a stride or four in the process. Don’t try this at home, kids!
Eventing Nation and Horse Nation are pleased to present our upcoming Holiday Gift Guide series! A series of gift idea lists aimed at everything from the Organizational Freak to the Tech Nerd in your family or barn group, this series will launch in mid-November to help all of the hapless gift givers out there with a gift you’ll ACTUALLY want. If your brand would like to place a product into a list or even obtain full ownership of an exclusive list just for you, visit this link to fill out our interest form. Placements in these lists start at $250, and insertions are being taken until November 11.
We have our first official sneak peek at what Ian Stark has up his sleeve for his final design at the MARS Maryland 5 Star, presented by Brown Advisory! Join Ian ahead of his upcoming retirement, along with eventing legend Bruce Davidson Sr., for a walk around some of the key questions on the CCI5* track. Stay tuned for the full look at what’s Ian and his team of builders have laid out!
Eventing Nation and Horse Nation are pleased to present our upcoming Holiday Gift Guide series! A series of gift idea lists aimed at everything from the Organizational Freak to the Tech Nerd in your family or barn group, this series will launch in mid-November to help all of the hapless gift givers out there with a gift you’ll ACTUALLY want. If your brand would like to place a product into a list or even obtain full ownership of an exclusive list just for you, visit this link to fill out our interest form. Placements in these lists start at $250, and insertions are being taken until November 11.
EN’s classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! It’s still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but we’ve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns they’re searching for. EN readers get unlimited free listings until October 10th with promo code “GoEventing” at checkout. Check it out today! [SHN]
Don’t miss out on your chance to get 20% off Mattes pads through World Equestrian Brands using code 24MATTES20! Order by October 13 to ensure your order is delivered in time for Christmas (or just buy one or three for yourself!). Click here to shop Mattes.
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Just a colorfully cool edit from our friends at Impulsion Media, featuring World Equestrian Brands ambassador Sharon White and Claus 63:
Barry, is that you with a new hair color? Maybe not, but Emily Hamel certainly has an eye for horses that love to jump out of photographers’ frames! Meet Newman Hoksehoeve, a 7-year-old Dutch gelding by Casago who is a new addition to Emily’s string this year. Clearly Training level isn’t *quite* impressive to this young talent. Hang on tight, Emily!
Eventing Nation and Horse Nation are pleased to present our upcoming Holiday Gift Guide series! A series of gift idea lists aimed at everything from the Organizational Freak to the Tech Nerd in your family or barn group, this series will launch in mid-November to help all of the hapless gift givers out there with a gift you’ll ACTUALLY want. If your brand would like to place a product into a list or even obtain full ownership of an exclusive list just for you, visit this link to fill out our interest form. Placements in these lists start at $250, and insertions are being taken until November 11.
EN’s classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! It’s still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but we’ve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns they’re searching for. EN readers get unlimited free listings until October 10th with promo code “GoEventing” at checkout. Check it out today! [SHN]
Don’t forget to nominate a #Supergroom working at Morven Park this weekend for our Achieve Equine award! Nominations close today (October 11).
Catch up on what went down on day one in preliminary competition at the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover. [Preliminary Competition Concludes]
Area 8 riders! Miami Valley Horse Trials needs to hear from you! Please take a moment to fill out this quick survey.
What do you need to know about basic fitness for your event horse? It’s important not just from a “need to get around this cross country course without dying from hyperventilation” standpoint, but also from an injury prevention view. [Read up on this concept here]
Is there a correlation to the health of the global markets and economy and the health of the horse industry? Common sense says yes, but there is more nuance to this relationship. [Read on]
If your horse suffers from asthma, there are some ways to manage this effectively. Dr. Susan White chimes in with some tips and tricks for what you should know as a horse owner. [Read more]
Want to get your brand out in front of thousands of competitors each year? Why not sign up to sponsor one of Stable View’s Competition Barns? Sponsorship benefits include two sponsor branded barn signs, arena signage, digital coverage, road side promotion, and more. Contact Shannon Habenicht at [email protected] or 704.779.6502 for details.
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Manage a horse that anticipates aids and/or transitions with these quick tips from Amelia Newcomb:
Some special news coming ahead of Pau at the end of this month: Gwendolyn Fer’s European Championships and 5* partner, Romantic Love, will be formally retired on Sunday following show jumping. This pair won Pau in 2017, adding to their pile of five FEI wins and 17 top-5 finishes spanning a 13-year career. Many happy returns to this incredible horse!
Eventing Nation and Horse Nation are pleased to present our upcoming Holiday Gift Guide series! A series of gift idea lists aimed at everything from the Organizational Freak to the Tech Nerd in your family or barn group, this series will launch in mid-November to help all of the hapless gift givers out there with a gift you’ll ACTUALLY want. If your brand would like to place a product into a list or even obtain full ownership of an exclusive list just for you, visit this link to fill out our interest form. Placements in these lists start at $250, and insertions are being taken until November 11.
EN’s classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! It’s still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but we’ve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns they’re searching for. EN readers get unlimited free listings until October 10th with promo code “GoEventing” at checkout. Check it out today! [SHN]
Don’t forget to nominate a #Supergroom working at Morven Park this weekend for our Achieve Equine award! Nominations close tomorrow (October 11).
Early bird ticket pricing launches TODAY for the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event! Score the best pricing on your tickets for the #BestWeekendAllYear here.
Jimmy Wofford’s legacy lives on in the Legacy Scholarship offered in his honor by the Waredaca Eventing Education Foundation. Area VI young rider Keira McKeon reflects on the benefits of this award and the education it provides in her write-up for the USEA. [Read it here]
German rider Malin Hansen-Hotopp has been awarded the Golden Riding Badge in her hometown of Schleswig-Holstein, commemorating her accomplishments (which this year include a top-5 finish in her first 5* at Kentucky). [Read more on the award]
Dutch venue Kronenberg has resigned its post as organizer of the 2025 FEI Pony European Championships for Dressage and Eventing. The FEI now seeks a new organizer and host venue, with a portal for applying open until October 23. This leaves more than one European Championship in flux, as we also do not have a date or venue announced for what would be the 2025 FEI European Championships for Eventing. [Read the story]
Giving back has always been at the heart of every horse show at TerraNova Equestrian Center. Since its inaugural event in 2021, TerraNova has partnered with several charities to raise money for local causes. This fall, TerraNova Equestrian Center is taking this giving to the next level with commitments to three charities: The Azinger Family Compassion Center, Easterseals Ranch, and Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee.
Featured during The Event at TerraNova in November, Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee is bringing its popular Empty Bowls charity fundraiser back to TerraNova for a second year. Held Saturday, November 16th from 11am to 2pm, Empty Bowls symbolize the importance of coming together to fill the bowls of our friends and neighbors in need. This community event benefits The Food Bank of Manatee, a PLUS program of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee.
Read more about the awesome efforts TerraNova makes for its community here.
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The new season of Horse & Country’s original series, Riding the the Reddens, is out now! Tune in for the first episode below, and find the rest on H&C+ here.
The calm before the hurricane. Photo via Joe Meyer on Facebook.
Florida is bracing for another big storm as Hurricane Milton succeeds Helene and takes aim to make landfall on the Gulf side of the state as soon as today near Tampa. The trajectory of a hurricane is always changing, but Ocala residents are bracing for impact nonetheless. Please stay safe, everyone.
EN’s classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! It’s still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but we’ve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns they’re searching for. EN readers get unlimited free listings until October 10th with promo code “GoEventing” at checkout. Check it out today! [SHN]
Meet one of the warhorses coming to compete at the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover this week! Dr. Jennifer Selvig and Hot Shot Kid have journeyed from Minnesota to compete at this year’s Makeover in Kentucky, and you can read more on their story here. For more information on following the Makeover, click here.
A new interview with U.S. Olympian and CHIO Aachen winner Will Coleman is out on your favorite podcast platform. Here’s the Spotify link.
The Maryland 5 Star is allowing riders to choose their music for dressage, and Emily Hamel is asking for your help! What’s the perfect song for Corvett to dance to? Cast your vote here.
Read a great profile on the collegiate eventing team at Randolph-Macon College in Virginia here.
Sponsor Corner: Morven Park Fall International & H.T.
Get excited! This weekend marks the official opening of the brand new US Equestrian Open, which will span the course of a year leading up to the finale at the 2025 Morven Park Fall International, where $200k in prize money, along with a $50k points bonus, will be up for grabs. The first qualifier of the Open of Eventing will happen in the CCI4* at Morven Park in Leesburg, VA starting this Friday, October 11.
For those of your unable to be with us in person this weekend, we’re pleased to share that USEF Network will be hosting a live stream of the 4* divisions, as well as the jumping phases USEF Developing Horse Championship for 6- and 7-year-olds in the CCI2*-S and CCI3*-S divisions. You can also follow along on the Morven Park YouTube channel for free offerings. USEF Network is also available for free access to USEF members — click here for more information. You can flip through the slides on the Instagram post above for more information on the Open series and how it works.
Additionally, more information on the entries, schedule, and more can be found here. We’ll have an entry preview coming your way later on here on EN.
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A throwback highlight reel from Boekelo in 2016 to whet your whistle for this weekend:
The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs are approaching at the end of October! On offer is $45,000 in prize monies across FEI divisions as well as a new Devoucoux saddle to the top Junior rider in the CCI2*-L. Come and experience the host of next year’s American Eventing Championships and, in 2028, the presumed site of equestrian at the next Olympic Games. Click here for more information on entries.
EN’s classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! It’s still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but we’ve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns they’re searching for. EN readers get unlimited free listings until October 10th with promo code “GoEventing” at checkout. Check it out today! [SHN]
What better way to commemorate a remarkable Olympic experience? Laura Collett’s #supergroom, Tilly Hughes, had some cool new cushions created for the lorry and we think it meets dog-in-residence Coco’s approval!
EN’s classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! It’s still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but we’ve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns they’re searching for. EN readers get unlimited free listings until October 10th with promo code “GoEventing” at checkout. Check it out today! [SHN]
Amerigo Saddles are designed to keep you in proper balance with your horse without interfering with their body. After all, good tack should not be a distraction — really, you and your horse should barely even notice it because it’s fit well and functions properly. You can explore Amerigo’s full line of jumping and dressage saddles, and book your personalized fitting appointment with the pros at World Equestrian Brands, here.
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We’re looking forward to Mai Baum’s “swan song” at Maryland 5 Star!
We’ve got two CCI5* events left on the calendar this year, both happening this month at the MARS Maryland 5 Star (October 16-20) and Les 5 Etoiles de Pau (October 24-27), and while we eagerly await the full entry list at Pau we do know that Boyd Martin is aiming two of his horses (Fedarman B and Miss Lulu Herself) at this 5*, as are Will Coleman and Off the Record and defending champions Ros Canter and Izilot DHI. Much more to come on the final 5* of the 2024 season — stay tuned.
An FEI stakeholder meeting was held on October 1 to address the social license and welfare issues facing the sport of dressage. The meeting served to reaffirm the core objectives of the sport, as well as to work through ways to realign things to match up better with these core values. [Read the summary]
After 14 years as a rider and coach at Germany’s Warendorf facility, Julia Krajewski is moving on. “It’s a personal decision,” Julia told ReiterRevue. “The time after the Olympic Games is the phase in which athletes think about what to do next. I really enjoyed working as a national coach. I have been a rider and trainer for 14 years now. Now a different phase is coming. I want to concentrate more on myself in the coming period.” Talks are currently underway to identify and hire a new coach at Warendorf, which systematically produces young event riders to the top levels of the sport and has seen numerous success stories out of its program. [More on this story]
Silva Martin lit up the Oval this past weekend during Dressage at Devon, winning the Devon Dance-Off competition with her longtime homebred partner, Rosa Cha. We LOVED Silva’s full embracing of the hippie outfit, just saying. [Read the story]
Entries for the Educational 3-Day at Florida Horse Park are open now! Don’t miss out on this incredible project from the local eventing community dedicated to education and fun at every level of the sport, happening November 18-23 just outside of Ocala. Entry fees go up at the end of October. You can join this Facebook group for more information on the event.
Closing date for the October Eventing Academy at Stable View is TODAY! The October Academy will take place October 11-13 and features ample opportunity for schooling and practice ahead of a low-pressure, unrecognized competition on the final day. You can accumulate points for year-end prizes and gain some valuable experience without the hefty fees. October is one of three Eventing Academy dates left on the 2024 calendar, so don’t miss out! Learn more here. You can also read a write-up on the Stable View Eventing Academy here.
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Get some tips on your 10-meter circles from FEI judge and 5* rider Valerie Pride:
A 5*-sized throwback this Thursday from you out of The Chronicle of the Horse archives: now a renowned Olympic course designer, Derek di Grazia is also a top competitor, riding at the top levels of the sport and winning Kentucky’s then-3* competition in 1985 with Sasquatch. You can read more about this stop on memory lane here.
We’re going to use most of the space in today’s News & Notes to share some opportunities to help those affected by Hurricane Helene as well as news and updates from around the horse communities affected.
Please note, while we do our best to verify the opportunities below, we always advise that you check the context of those gathering donations and otherwise offering help and ensure that you’re giving to an organization or person you trust. We also know this is not a comprehensive list, so feel free to email us at [email protected] with a link to a credible donation outlet or charitable organization.
Take a tour of the beautiful TerraNova Equestrian Center, which looks foward to welcoming eventers at all levels to the November Event at TerraNova (November 14-17) in Myakka City, FL.
A few personnel and staffing changes at the FEI lead off our news round-up this morning as the international governing body has announced a new Director of Eventing to replace Catrin Norinder upon retirement after 37 years of service.
For her part, Catrin Norinder has been involved in the organization of equestrian sports at the Olympic Games starting with Seoul the same year she was hired (1988). She also played a key role in the creation of the Eventing Risk Management Program.
Frédérique Reffet Plantier will take over as Director of Eventing in 2025. Photo courtesy of the FEI.
Frédérique Reffet Plantier will now step up to replace Catrin, effective January 1, 2025. Catrin will stay on in a consulting role for the first part of 2025 to assist with the handover of the role. An FEI press release about the appointment reads:
Working with the FEI since 2012, Reffet Plantier started in the Eventing and Olympic Department working closely with the Director and colleagues on all aspects of event and competition management, FEI Committee administration, and the development of risk management practices within the discipline.
In 2021, she transitioned into the role of Senior Manager within the office of the FEI Secretary General, allowing her to gain valuable experience in governance and decision-making, significantly expanding her skill set in both leadership and management.
“Throughout her time at the FEI, we have had the pleasure of observing Frédérique’s significant contributions across her various roles,” FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said.
“She has approached each challenge with unwavering professionalism and has demonstrated an exceptional ability to manage complex projects.
“Frédérique is well placed to take on this key role within the organisation, with her comprehensive knowledge of the Eventing discipline and her familiarity with the internal workings of the FEI governance structures. Her inclusive and supportive nature has made her a trusted and valued member of the FEI team at our headquarters in Lausanne and we are excited to see the next chapter of the FEI Eventing Department develop under her leadership.”
Chair of the FEI Eventing Committee and former Olympic Eventing gold medallist from the USA, David O’Connor said, “Frédérique brings to the Director’s position a deep understanding of the operational framework of the Eventing discipline, practical experience in implementing these elements at events worldwide, and a sound awareness of horses as an avid equestrian herself.
“Throughout her involvement in the sport’s evolution, Frédérique has played a crucial role in significant decisions, including changes to the Olympic format and advancements in Eventing Risk Management.
“Having witnessed Frédérique’s growth within the sport, I am confident that her respect for its history, combined with her openness to new approaches for future advancement, makes her the ideal candidate for the Director of Eventing position.”
In other personnel news from the FEI, its Communications Director, Olivia Robinson, has also departed from her role after 18 years of service. The governing body will now reassess its operations and departments with findings to be reported in the coming months.
Ocala’s World Equestrian Center housed 1,200 horses during Hurricane Helene. What goes into this effort to help keep horses and humans safe during extreme weather events? Read more here.
Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program Championships, which were to be held at Stable View this weekend, have been postponed to October 24-27 as the venue continues to grapple with damage done as Helene moved through Aiken. Declarations and entries have subsequently been extended to October 15, and full refunds will be given to any competitors provided they scratch by October 4. More information here.
British Equestrian has unveiled a new Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan, which includes six key strategic objectives outlined through research for Horses For All. More information on this plan here.
How can you overcome the things that overwhelm you, especially when it comes to competitive environments? Coach Daniel Stewart has some advice in his latest “Pressure Proof” column for the USEA, and it involves things we can practice both in and out of the saddle. Read more here.
We can’t wait to spend “a day in the country” with you next weekend at the Morven Park Fall International & H.T.! With eventing action and championships happening at multiple levels, a slew of awards on offer for top performers, and plenty of ways to enhance the spectator experience, this is truly a fall event not to be missed. Tailgate and VIP opportunities start at just $150, and you can secure your spot here and here.
We’ll have our defending Pau CCI5* champions back this year to defend their title! Great Britain’s Ros Canter, fresh off a win at Burghley and a gold medal in Paris, will bring Izilot DHI to Pau at the end of October, and we’re chomping at the bit to see the rest of the entry list for the final 5* of the 2024 season. Stay tuned for more news!
EN’s classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! We’re still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but we’ve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns they’re searching for. Check it out today!
If you’re in Germany, here’s a cool opportunity for you: Ingrid Klimke’s facility regularly opens up for open training days, where spectators can go and see a typical day of training and watch Ingrid’s training philosophies at work. See open dates and register here.
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Would you try “horse agility”? Asking for a friend.
It’s been a heck of a week for anyone in the path of Hurricane/Tropical Storm Helene. The storm came ashore late last night in Florida’s Big Bend region and has since worked its way northwest, leaving major flooding, property damage, and power loss in its wake. Stable View was one event affected by the storm, reporting over 30 downed trees and multiple damages to property (no injuries to horses or humans though) and causing the event to shift its start to today.
We hope you have been able to stay safe, wherever you are!
EN’s classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! We’re still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but we’ve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns they’re searching for. Check it out today!
World Equestrian Brands ambassador Sharon White trusts Amerigo Saddles and Vespucci bridles, tack options without distractions because they fit well and hold up to the tough sport that is eventing. Learn more about these brands here.
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Watch cross country live from the FEI Nations Cup leg at Lignières!
We are underway today at Stable View Oktoberfest, where an absolutely bursting roster of competitors spanning nearly every level is ready to tackle this perennial fall stop on the calendar. We’ll be bringing you a full report from the CCI4*-S division later this weekend, but in the meantime don’t forget that Horse & Country will be hosting a live stream (membership or streaming pass required) from show jumping this afternoon around 1:18 p.m. EST. You can follow along with the live stream here and with live scoring here. You can also check out our preview of the weekend that was published yesterday here. Good luck and Go Eventing to all!
The Maryland 5 Star is in the news! Read up on this event and its hope to become one of the largest equestrian attractions in the horse-friendly state of Maryland here.
Meet this inspiring duo who competed at AECs last month. Tonka the Haflinger’s day job is to assist his owner and rider, Emma Kane-Mikan, with her work in mental health. [Read more on this pair]
Horses are shod differently based on their hoof health and which discipline they participate in. Biomechanics play a big factor in this decision-making process, as does the surface the horses is commonly ridden on. [Read an interesting deep dive on shoeing horses by discipline]
We are just a few weeks away from the 2024 Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover! A few format changes and updates have been introduced this year. You can learn more about this year’s event and how to follow it here.
Some fun content is coming your way after show jumping brother duo Daniel and Steven Bluman took a day to visit Windurra, the home base of one Boyd Martin. We can’t WAIT to see what these boys got up to! Welcome to the dark side, Blumans.
Poplar Place H.T. (GA) could use your help to ensure their October event can run! As of yesterday, the venue posted that they need about 35 more entries to make the event viable. Late fees will be waived until Friday, 9/27. Click here for more information on how to enter.
If you’re fleeing the path of Hurricane Helene, Carolina Horse Park (NC) has also opened up their stabling to evacuees. Stalls are $10 per night and you will need to bring at least 3 days worth of shavings, food, and supplies. You can also view some tips on prepping for hurricane season here. [More information]
Do you have a crooked horse? There are several signs that this might be the case, and bodywork and physio expert Jo Ann Wilson has some valuable advice on how to identify and treat these signs. [More here]
California-based Taylor McFall beelined her way straight to a horse’s back as soon as she knew what a horse was. Fast forward a few years, and she’s now full speed ahead as a budding young professional. [Read this great feature on Taylor]
No detail has been spared in the exquisite main barn at TerraNova. Photo by Jane Bannon Photography.
Who doesn’t have a visit to TerraNova Equestrian Center (Myakka City, FL) on their bucket list? Just check out the incredible attention to detail in these barns. The competitor and spectator experience at TerraNova is not one to be missed! We hope to see you at the November FEI event, happening November 14-17. Click here for more information.
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Another fun helmet cam coming your way, this time from Bouckaert Farm in Georgia!
Many happy returns to Sydney Elliott, the Traveling Reserve rider in Paris this summer with QC Diamantaire, who was inducted in the Northwest Louisiana Walk of Stars this week. According to the Walk of Stars website, “The Walk of Stars award was created to recognize individuals from northwest Louisiana who are distinguished in their professional and/or civic endeavors or who have brought recognition and attention to the area. The honorees may come from any profession or industry including, but not limited to, athletics, music, acting, business, politics, education and community service.”
Congratulations and well-deserved, Sydney! You can watch a video of the proceedings below:
William Fox-Pitt has been named to the Horse of the Year Show judging panel happening next month. He’ll joined by fellow judges Ann Overton-Ablitt and Tissie Reason, and will be part of a panel that includes Colin Tibbey, Simon Reynolds, and Caroline Dale-Leech. [Read more here]
Catch up with Hong Kong eventer Yuxuan Su after a busy summer season in this blog.
What should you know about topical antibiotics and horses? Learn more on The Horsehere.
How effective is the use of a whip on cross country? Researchers in the UK wanted to know. This study looked at whip use during 200 videoed cross-country (XC) rounds at the FEI 2*-5* level. Variables recorded included fence type, fence number, number of whip hits, stage of jump, faults occurred, viable reasons for use, and horse’s reaction. [See the findings]
Sponsor Corner: Morven Park Fall International & H.T.
Photo by Erin Gilmore Photography.
The entries are in and Northern Virginia’s most historic horse park is gearing up for competition! The Morven Park Fall International & Horse Trials are less than a month away. Pack a picnic and come #playlearndiscover the exciting sport of eventing on October 10th through the 13th. Tailgate spaces are located in the center of the cross-country course, awarding spectators prime viewing of world-class eventing against the scenic backdrop of the Davis Mansion. Or take advantage of the best seats in the park for 4*-S and 4*-L dressage and show jumping with passes to the VIP Hospitality Tent.
A check in with our most recent Burghley champion is a great way to start our Sunday, and here’s a look at Lordships Graffalo, the partner of Ros Canter in Paris and for her recent Burghley win, making the most of his vacation time. You earned it, Walter!
Some major upgrades are underway at Bromont Horse Park in Bromont, Canada just to the east of Montreal. This project involves a teardown of the existing stalls in the permanent stabling and an upgrade to the footing in the barns, followed by a build of new stalls. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from this must-see/must-do event north of the border.
Did you know you can now find Equipe saddles on World Equestrian Brands? The Selleria Equipe brand represents quality craftsmanship and attention to the detail, representing manufacturing excellence in Italy and worldwide. Each saddle is crafted to satisfy the demands of both the rider and the horse in their chosen equestrian discipline. Selleria Equipe combines this craftsmanship spirit with a great design and material innovation, using a revolutionary carbon fiber in the tree. [Click here to learn more]
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Ride between the ears around the Training level cross country at this year’s AECs in Kentucky!
Take a gander at David Evans’ cross country set up for this weekend’s Blenheim Palace International CCI4*-L, which you can follow along with live on H&C+ here all weekend. You can preview the cross country tracks on CrossCountryApp here.
Today will see the wrap-up of dressage for the various 4* divisions, which also include key 8- and 9-year-old sub-divisions that offer a glimpse at some serious horses for the near future. This graphic from EquiRatings illustrates:
You can follow along with scores and ride times, including for the healthy contingent of U.S. riders competing this weekend, here. We’ll check back in with periodic updates from Blenheim this weekend.
The National Steeplechase Association has revoked the sanction for the 2024 International Gold Cup to run at Great Meadow in The Plains, VA (the former site of Great Meadow International for eventing), which was slated to be held in late October. The Association “deemed the Great Meadow racecourse to be in disrepair and unsafe.” The races will now take place at Glenwood Park in Middleburg, VA. [More on this story]
Meet Sophie Callard, a former physical education teacher who’s taking a crack at her first CCI4*-L this weekend at Blenheim Palace. [Read the story]
A Texas equine vet is facing felony charges for animal cruelty having to do with the use of a cattle prod on a horse. Her license to practice had already been revoked earlier this year. Warning: the story linked here contains graphic depictions of abuse.
When should brands jump on social media trends, and when is it best to cool your jets? Equerry / Co dives into this topic in their latest business column. [Read it here]
Get a peek at some of the behind the scenes prep that goes into pulling off a big community event like Stable View’s Oktoberfest, which is coming up September 26-29 in Aiken, SC. VIP tickets can still be purchased here.
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Hear from David Evans on his Blenheim Palace cross country challenge:
A cute lead for you this morning as Colleen Loach’s FE Golden Eye, who’s a man of many trades, took to the leadline arena for some slightly lower pressure competition (though really, the stakes can get pretty high in those leadline classes!). You go, Goldie!
We haven’t heard much of Oliver Townend’s 5* ride and Pau runner-up, Tregilder, but we now have an update that he’s been sold on to a young rider for his owners, the Hazeldine family. He’s already picked up a ribbon out competing in his new role as a professor!
Read up on Aubrey Graham, who has a column all about retraining Thoroughbreds over on Horse Nation, and the success she’s found through the Thoroughbred horse and the study of anthropology.
Braden Speck is putting his stamp on the sport of eventing, and his story is one all of us can draw inspiration from.
Just like humans, horses are in many ways what they eat. How does a horse’s diet affect their behavior? Read more on this topic here.
Destination: TerraNova. The opening date for entries is approaching on October 1, and you’ll find a level for everyone at this popular end of season event (November 15-17). From Starter up through CCI4*-L, and with Long formats at 1* and up, this is a great opportunity to test out a move up or look to end the season on a competitive bang. Visit the TerraNova website to plan your trip to Myakka City, FL.
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Looking for a glimpse of the cross country at TerraNova? Ride around a CCI1*-S track with Elisa Wallace and Tullymurry Fifi:
We’re very saddened to report this morning that Susie Berry (IRL) has announced the sudden passing of her Paris Olympics horse, Wellfields Lincoln, due to a tragic field accident. Susie announced the news on her Instagram page yesterday.
“Heartbroken to say that we very sadly lost Lincoln yesterday in a tragic field accident,” Susie wrote. “Anyone who knows me will know how much we all adored him. He’ll leave a huge hole in our hearts. Thank you Slinky for all the opportunities and memories. You really were one in a million.”
“Slinky” partnered with Susie for her first Olympic appearance for the Irish. They finished 31st individually for the team. This was a horse Susie had produced from his young horse days, having taken the ride over from Jonty Evans after his life-altering fall in 2018.
Photo by Tilly Berendt.
We’re sending our most heartfelt condolences to Susie and her team, as well as Slinky’s owners and connections.
Some news from the show jumping space, where the upcoming Las Vegas leg of the Longines FEI World Cup series was suddenly canceled after a change in management companies. The show will still host national classes as the management shifts from Blenheim to Desert International Horse Park. [More on this story on The Chronicle of the Horse]
A Willy Wonka themed freestyle cemented Elisa Wallace’s latest mustang win, earning the English competition win at the inaugural Mustang Magic. “The goal has been to really get these horses out, and he’s an amazing ambassador for the breed,” Elisa told Practical Horseman. “[Mustangs are] fantastic. They are really fun horses with really nice qualities.” Read more on Elisa and her fellow competitors here.
Horse Sport brings forward some questions for Equestrian Canada at their upcoming Annual General Meeting. The publication reviewed EC’s Annual Report and dives into their top six questions, most of them relating to finance and promised by-law changes, here.
Dana Cooke and FE Quattro. Photo by Sally Spickard.
The entries are flowing in and Northern Virginia’s most historic horse park is gearing up for competition! The Morven Park Fall International & Horse Trials are less than a month away. Pack a picnic and come #playlearndiscover the exciting sport of eventing on October 10th through the 13th.
Tailgate spaces are located in the center of the cross country course, awarding spectators prime viewing of world-class eventing against the scenic backdrop of the Davis Mansion. Or take advantage of the best seats in the park for 4*-S and 4*-L dressage and show jumping with passes to the VIP Hospitality Tent.
For competitors, don’t forget that MARS Equestrian is generously funding an award for the top American-bred horse in the 4*-L division (or, if no horses qualify in this division, the 4*-S) at this event. The USEF/USEA Developing Horse National Championships for 6- and 7-year-olds will also be held at Morven Park.
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A fun helmet cam from GMHA last month. This one comes from Jane Kreppein and Sport, who finished on their dressage score in fifth place in the Training Rider division.
Sporty and I completed both our first modified yesterday 🥹 He put down a beautiful dressage and show jump, and felt so confident around a large cross country course at GMHA, finishing second in the open 🥈. So lucky to have a great team of support and I am so proud of him!! 🥰♥️
Posted by Jane Kreppein on Monday, September 16, 2024
Have you been following the inaugural Mustang Classic at Kentucky Horse Park this week? This new competition showcases the versatility of the Mustang breed, and one of the well-known eventers who’s made a name for herself as a Mustang trainer is competing.
Elisa Wallace is a name many will associate both with eventing as well as Mustang work, having produced several former wild horses up the levels as well as to prepare them for forever homes. She’s also a decorated Mustang competitor, and she’s looking to add another win or two to her shelf with Zephyr, a five-year-old Mustang who Elisa only got in February of this year.
After two days of competition, which consisted of a Training level dressage test on Friday and a show jumping / cross country fence phase on Saturday. The top 10 (or, in this case, 12 after a scoring miscalculation was corrected by awarding two additional spots to the final phase) move forward to a Freestyle today to determine the winner of the lion’s share of the $125,000 in prize funds.
Elisa and Zephyr currently sit atop the leaderboard, and you can follow along live for free on Equestrian+ here. Practical Horseman has been covering this event, and you can read their Saturday recap here.
