Now that the fields have been revealed for Defender Kentucky (which is SO CLOSE now!), it’s time to keep an eye on some of the pairs who’ve been tapped as ones to watch this year. Now, we know world #1 Tom McEwen is aiming JL Dublin, who’s very nearly won at Kentucky as recently as last year, at Badminton instead of Kentucky, but there is still a full field of threats to take home that coveted 5* win and winner’s share of the $400,000 prize fund.
You can catch up on our Kentucky coverage, including our previews of both the 5* and 4* entries, here.
Did you know that World Equestrian Brands will come to you to help you find the perfect saddle for both you and your horse? Click here to find a fitter near you.
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We thoroughly enjoyed the pure chaos that is Anna Buffini trying to “cook” with her horse, Flynn:
Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Cora Williamson for Liz Crawley Photography.
We’re eagerly anticipating Stable View’s spring 4*-S this weekend in Aiken, SC, where a few Kentucky hopefuls are running their final prep ahead of the big dance at the end of the month in Lexington. We’ll have a full wrap-up report from the action, which is also serving as a US Equestrian Open of Eventing qualifier leg, coming your way from Shelby Allen this weekend, but in the meantime you can use the link list below to follow along.
Attending an event at Stable View isn’t only about competing, of course! The team on the ground always organizes some great activities, including complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres for competitors and families on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings from 5pm-7pm in Ollie’s Inn during Stable View’s traditional “Graze and Gaze”. Friday’s Graze and Gaze is sponsored by Engineered Equine Performance and Saturday’s is sponsored by Forestier Sellier Saddlery. Also, on Saturday from 11:00am – 4:00pm, you can take advantage of a VIP expeirence! Tickets are $75 per person, and limited tickets remain. Ticket holders receive a picnic lunch consisting of Stable View’s signature charcuterie from the Bistro at Stable View, an open bar with beer + wine, access to the Pavilion upstairs, and a stainless steel Stable View tumbler! Click here to snag your ticket before they’re gone.
While Galway Downs reached a big milestone with the LA City Council approving a venue change for the LA28 Olympics last week, FEI president Ingmar De Vos seemed to hedge a little on the final voting from the International Olympic Committee, which is due to take place during an executive board meeting on April 9. “We hope, we think – there is an executive board meeting of the IOC on April 9, so we believe that hopefully by then the master plan, the venue master plan, will be finalized, and that we will know where we will go,” he said, according to a report by Horse & Hound. “But we are in permanent contact with the Los Angeles organising committee about this – everything’s going in the right direction, but we are under a non-disclosure agreement so we cannot say anything.” We’ll keep an eye out for further updates as the final picture becomes clearer.
Cornelia Fletcher made a triumphant return to competition last fall at The Event at TerraNova (FL), winning the CCI4*-L aboard her longtime partner, Daytona Beach 8, just months after giving birth to her daughter, Sparrow. Despite less than four months back in the saddle, Cornelia and the talented but quirky Oldenburg mare delivered a stellar cross country and show jumping to leap from 15th after dressage to the top spot on a final score of 41.4. “This win meant more to me than I can put into words,” she shared. “It was my first competition since having Sparrow—and winning with Daytona just made it even more special.” Cornelia’s story is a powerful reminder that motherhood and five-star dreams can coexist. Read the full story on Practical Horsemanhere.
Adult Riders, it’s time to rally your teams! The 2025 USEA Adult Team Championships (ATC) will once again run in tandem with the USEA American Eventing Championships (AEC) presented by Nutrena Feeds, taking place August 27–31 at Galway Downs in Temecula, CA. This year brings exciting changes: Starter level has been added to the ATC lineup, while Preliminary has been retired to reflect growing demand at the lower levels. Riders in the Rider or Amateur divisions from Starter through Modified are eligible—and if you’re aiming to compete on an ATC team, don’t forget to submit your Letter of Intent by August 1! Mixed Area teams are welcome, and every rider must be 22+ and part of their Area’s Adult Rider Program. Want the inside scoop or to get involved? Click here to learn more and fill out the Letter of Intent.
Mark your calendars for the Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation’s Spring Festival Fundraiser, set for Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Full Moon Farm in Finksburg, MD. This family-friendly event supports FMFEF’s mission to promote good horsemanship and foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within the equestrian community.
Admission is free, and all are welcome to enjoy a day filled with activities. Volunteers, vendors, and donors are encouraged to participate; those interested can reach out via the contact information provided on FMFEF’s official page here.
Riders at Thoresby’s Eventing Spring Carnival praised the introduction of new frangible fence designs, which blend modern safety with traditional aesthetics. The course, designed by Stuart Buntine, marked the first competition use of the updated frangible “parallelogram” chassis, earning support from top riders like Tom McEwen, Laura Collett, and Gemma Stevens—even those who triggered pins. “If it saves a life, it’s worth it,” said Laura. Read more on Horse & Hound here.
Eventing rules were front and center on day two at the FEI Sports Forum in Lausanne, with discussions ranging from potential changes to flag and frangible penalties to the exciting prospect of a new U25 championship. The FEI Eventing Committee, led by David O’Connor, also floated tweaks to MER rules and inspections, and even hinted at using tech to improve flag judgments. Nothing’s official yet—final decisions land in November—but it’s clear the 2026 rulebook (and the LA 2028 path) could look very different. Catch up on the full session here.
From beginner lessons to top-10 AEC finishes, 17-year-old Carolyn Rice has grown up in the sport of eventing—and now she’s paying it forward as a mentor and instructor at Willow South Riding School in Georgia. A longtime member of the USEA Interscholastic Eventing League, Carolyn is looking ahead to this year’s Championship at Stable View with her new partner, Fernhill Oreo. After heartbreak and healing with a previous horse, she’s more inspired than ever to pursue a future in veterinary medicine—and keep competing as part of a team that feels like family. Read the full story here.
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Hear from TerraNova 4*-S winner Jessie Phoenix after she took home the US Equestrian Open of Eventing qualifier leg win with Freedom GS:
Happy Times bows out at Burghley, alongside Sam Griffiths and former head girl Imogen Mercer. Photo by Tilly Berendt.
We invite you to join us in remembering Happy Times, the longtime partner and hall of fame horse of Sam Griffiths who passed away this week at the age of 25. “A son of the great sire Hiraldik, Happy Times had numerous top 10 placings at 5* level including third at both Badminton and Burghley in 2009,” Sam and his team wrote on social media. “Other notable performances include winning Saumur, The World Cup qualifier at Chatsworth and the Grantham cup at Belton. Happy competed at Burghley seven times and was inducted into the Hall of Fame. In his career he amassed over 1700 British Eventing points and represented Australia at both the Olympic Games and the World Championships with his rider Sam Griffiths.”
A message from Sam,
“We are very sad to announce that Happy Times has passed away at the age of 25.
Dressage took center stage at the FEI Sports Forum in Lausanne, where leaders acknowledged growing public distrust and pressure on the discipline. The new Dressage Strategic Action Plan working group discussed potential reforms—including double bridle rules, noseband standards, and the role of ethical training—but emphasized that no formal changes are coming just yet. We’ll have a full recap of eventing-related discussions from the Forum later this week, so stay tuned! Read up on what went down in the working group meeting for dressage here.
Trainers play a huge role in our lives—but it’s essential to choose one carefully. Over 50% of athletes report abuse in sport, often by those in positions of authority. Before committing to a coach, do more than a background check: explore the SafeSport database, ask open-ended questions, confirm they have safety and mental health training, and research their reputation online and in-person. Trust your gut, ask around, and remember: your well-being and your horse’s safety come first. Learn more here and at WeRideTogether.today.
Ten years after selling a horse to Cheryl Oxenburg, Heidi Caldwell never imagined that same acquaintance would later save her life. After a stage IV colon cancer diagnosis and a groundbreaking living liver transplant in 2024, Caldwell is cancer-free—and back in the saddle. Cheryl, who turned out to be her perfect match, donated part of her liver in a 17.5-hour surgery that gave Heidi a second chance. Their incredible journey is a reminder of the power of friendship, faith, and advocacy. Read the story here.
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Don’t miss William Fox-Pitt on the latest episode of the Dear Horse World podcast:
This one’s a tearjerker and a reason to cheer! A massive congratulations is in order as Nicola Wilso received an MBE (that’s Member of the Order of the British Empire, folks!) from none other than The Princess Royal herself at Buckingham Palace this week. With family and friends by their side and two very proud nieces joining for the royal moment, it was a day of pomp, pride, and a proper celebration. Talk about an unforgettable Thursday! Many congratulations to Nicola on this well-deserved honor.
The USEA is saddened to share the passing of Margaret Joyce Good of Leesburg, VA, on February 27, 2025. A lifelong advocate for youth and horses, Margaret served as District Commissioner of the Loudoun Hunt Pony Club for nearly 40 years and was the driving force behind the beloved LHPC Horse Trials. Her decades of service, recognized by honors including the Wofford Cup and USEA’s Legend Award, left a lasting impact on the eventing community. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and all who were touched by her remarkable legacy. Read about Margaret and her incredible life here.
For over 50 years, Mary Fike has poured her heart into eventing, and her dedication to the USEA Classic Series is second to none. From organizing the IEA Horse Trials & Classic Three-Day in Indiana to the Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event in Kentucky, Fike has championed long-format education and opportunity for lower-level riders. This year, she’s upping the game at IEA with a panel of expert clinicians—think Beth Perkins, Debbie Boeh, Wayne Quarles and more—offering hands-on learning from trot-ups to steeplechase. Learn more here.
A notable withdrawal on the CCI5* entry list at Defender Kentucky — see who’s staying home here.
This week’s Mythbuster Monday on Horse Nation tackles a hot topic: Does desensitizing your horse to training aids make them ineffective? The answer: Fact. While desensitization can increase safety and reduce fear, overdoing it—especially with tools like whips or halters—can cause your horse to shut down or become numb to the aids entirely. Experts agree: the goal isn’t to suppress reaction, but to build curiosity and trust. Read the full breakdown here.
It’s getting to be that time to transition your horses over to spring grass, but what if you’re working with a hard keeper? Kentucky Performance Products has some advice on spring feeding for underweight horses. You can view the full graphic and text here.
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Watch Jessie Phoenix and Freedom GS take home the win at the TerraNova CCI4*-S:
He’s done it again! Canadian eventer Tik Maynard donned his cowboy hat this weekend at Kentucky Horse Park and took him a repeat title in the 2025 Road to the Horse World Championships of Colt Starting, besting three other competitors to get the job done with the horse he had chosen, an unbroken Quarter Horse named Goodluck Cat. This annual competition challenges its invited competitors to make as much progress as they can with their chosen horses over the course of three days, with 90 minute sessions with the horses each day. A panel of judges determines the round winners and final champion, and it was once more Tik, whose empathetic and intuitive approach with horses earned him yet another title, a Circle Y saddle, and a big ol’ belt buckle to boot (on top of a winner’s check for $75,000).
If you missed out on any of the Road to the Horse streams, we highly encourage you to check them out. The whole weekend is free to view on YouTube here.
Thorseby Park International Eventing Spring Carnival (UK): [Website] [Scores]
News & Reading
Last chance! The deadline to apply for a free 6-month Equine Academy membership has been extended to TODAY and it’s open to Adult Amateur riders (18+) who competed at least once in 2024 in dressage, hunters, jumpers, or eventing. No need to meet strict USEF amateur rules—if you don’t earn most of your income from riding or teaching, you’re good to go! Four grants are up for grabs (random drawing in April), and if over 250 people apply, that doubles to eight—so spread the word and apply now here!
From grooming at the Olympics to galloping racehorses, designing for top brands, and racing across Mongolia, Linda Vegher has never taken the straight path—and that’s exactly how she likes it. A lifelong horsewoman with a flair for adventure and an eye for detail, Vegher has found her way back to the equine world as a sought-after equine massage therapist. Most recently, she’s traveled with Team USA to the 2024 Paris Olympics, helping top event horses stay at their peak. Her story is a reminder that for some of us, it’s all connected. Read more here.
Your jumping round starts long before the first fence—and according to grand prix rider Ronny Riemer, mastering your course walk is one of the most important skills you can develop. In Part 1 of his EQUESTRIAN+ video series, Ronny breaks down his go-to strategies for walking courses like a pro, from planning your first-fence approach to navigating bending lines, tricky combinations, and more. With clear examples and practical tips, this is a must-watch for anyone looking to ride smarter and with more confidence. Learn more here.
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Take a spin around the 4*-S at the Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International with Elisa Wallace and Lissavorra Quality:
Today we’re wishing a fond farewell to Hawley Bennett-Awad’s former 5* partner, Gin & Juice, who passed away this week at the age of 25. Hawley and “Ginny’s” list of accomplishments could take up a CVS receipt’s worth of paper, traversing the world together to compete at a total of nine then-CCI4* competitions, including two World Championships and the 2012 Olympics in London. Owned by Linda Paine, Ginny was transferred to Sara Mittleider for the latter part of her career before retiring from the sport.
Enjoy a few photos of Hawley and Gin & Juice from their long partnership:
Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice at WEG. Photo by Jenni Autry.
Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice at WEG 2014. Photo by Jenni Autry.
Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice
Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice at Rolex. Photo by Alex Thayer.
Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice. Photo courtesy of Sherry Stewart.
Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice at Pau. Photo by Jenni Autry.
Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice. Photo by Jenni Autry.
The first US Equestrian Open Final is in the books, and it’s a familiar face (and a brand-new dad!) in Olympic gold medalist Christian Kukuk (GER) and Checker 47, who wowed the crowds with their masterclass of a performance in the $750,000 Rolex CSI5* at Wellington International last night. Many congratulations to Veronica Tracy and Christian on the new addition to their family, a daughter named Lila who was born just Saturday morning.
Watch Christian and Checker 47 repeat their grand finale win at WEF:
The Go Eventing Podcast and the Horse Person podcast have teamed up for some discussion over on Instagram, and we want to know your thoughts! Head on over to @goeventing or @horsepersonpodcast on Instagram to join the conversation.
Today marks day two of competition at the Thoresby Park International Eventing Spring Carnival, which is one of the larger prep stops en route to spring 5* events for UK and European-based pairs. The massive entry lists here require two days of dressage competition, and leading the way in his section of the 4*-S is JL Dublin, teamed up with British Olympic team gold medalist Tom McEwen, scoring a 24.5 with plenty more yet to ride their tests today. In the other 4*-S section, it’s New Zealand’s Jesse Campbell riding Speedwell, an 11-year-old Irish gelding formerly ridden by Georgie Campbell, who tragically passed away in an accident at Bicton last year. They sit on a score of 30.0 for the day one lead.
Our UK reporter Tilly Berendt will be on site later on this weekend, so stay tuned for a full wrap-up report from Thoresby coming your way soon. We’ll also have press release updates from Galway Downs and TerraNova coming over the weekend, as there’s plenty of action to catch all around the world! Stay tuned.
Galway Downs is one step closer to being the confirmed host venue for equestrian events at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics after the LA City Council approved the venue update in a meeting this week. The motion still needs to be ratified, which should be happening this week, and then the venue plans will move on to the IOC for final approval, which is anticipated to go forward without issue. Stay tuned for more on this developing news, but in the meantime you can catch up with what we know so far here.
If you’re navigating a return to riding after a confidence-breaking episode like a fall or accident, consider taking a patient approach with yourself. There’s a lot of advice out there on managing fear, but not all advice is created equal. Check out some ways to holistically manage these tough emotions here.
Our reigning World Champion, Yasmin Ingham (GBR), is set to make her long-awaited Badminton debut this year, as are several other “rookies” lined up for one of the most prestigious events in the world. Take a look here.
If you’re feeling nostalgic about your intercollegiate eventing days (or if you simply never got the chance to compete yourself!), you definitely want to check out Stable View’s Alumni Cup, which will be held during the May Local Charities Horse Trials May 2-4 in Aiken, SC. There’s a boatload of prizes up for grabs, and you can also create scramble teams with alumni from other schools. You can submit your team rosters to Emma Young by emailing [email protected].
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Check out the live stream replay from the Wild Card round on day one of the Road to the Horse competition at Kentucky Horse Park:
While we have a ton of eventing happening this weekend, there’s one more very cool competition happening in the 2025 Road to the Horse colt starting competition in Lexington, KY. Why are we so invested? Because one of our own, Tik Maynard, is returning to defend his 2024 title and represent horsemanship across disciplines. He’s joined this year by New Zealand show jumper Vicki Wilson, also carrying the flag for English disciplines, which have not been largely represented historically in this competition, and horsemanship trainer and clinician Phil Haugen. Four wild card competitors will also compete for a shot at the championship.
This is a really unique and interesting competition, which centers around a horse for each competitor and how far they can get in forming a relationship in a limited time. The competition will be livestreamed free of charge here. Things kick off with the Wild Card round today, while the Championship round will begin Friday afternoon. To view more information and the schedule, click here.
Tik will also be doing a pre-release of his forthcoming second book, Starting in the Middle, which chronicles his journey at Road to the Horse last year. If you’re unable to attend, you can pre-order your copy here.
After struggling with confidence, 13-year-old Lila Apple found her stride thanks to a patient Thoroughbred named Beau and a special coach Now a proud member of the newly formed Tryon Collective IEL team, Lila is thriving in competition and aiming for this year’s Interscholastic Eventing League Championships at Stable View. [Read the full story here.]
Success is all about good habits. That goes for your riding too, especially on cross country. In this new training column on Practical Horseman, Phillip Dutton discusses the habits he suggests establishing to make you stronger, more confident, and more capable on cross country. [Read it here.]
Heads up, cross-border competitors: A proposed 25% tariff set to go into effect April 2 could impact not just goods like hay and lumber—but also horses entering the U.S. from Canada or Mexico, even temporarily for shows or breeding. Owners may be required to pay steep deposits at the border (think: thousands of dollars), although options like ATA Carnets could help. The situation remains fluid, and confusion abounds. [Read the full breakdown here.]
As the one-year anniversary of Caroline March’s passing is marked, the Cycle4Caroline fundraising effort nears its next milestone—with nearly £350,000 raised (including Gift Aid) for the British Eventing Support Trust and Spinal Research. Though the Givewheel page closes on March 31, Caroline’s legacy continues. [Read more here.]
Great news from the Green Mountain Horse Association, which has been diligently raising funds to acquire additional land to help prevent flooding. In 2023, four floods between July and December impacted the facility. An anonymous donor has now generously provided a $200,000 Matching Grant for the GMHA Land Acquisition. All donations directed to the land acquisition will be matched, up to $200,000. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation and help this special venue continue the magic of GMHA for the next generation.
To date, GMHA has raised over half of the $2.1 million purchase price, with the balance due in October. For more information, please contact Bruce Perry at 802.457.1509 or visit this link.
Meet the USEA’s latest VIP Volunteer, Laurie Hogan! Laurie is a passionate volunteer and a bit of a music fiend, and while she isn’t an eventer herself, she finds the thrill of cross country day in particular to be just her jam. Read more about Laurie here.
In a moving tribute shared for Women’s History Month, Zoie “Zozo” Brogdon reflects on a full-circle moment that highlights the power of representation in equestrian sport. Just before interviewing her own Changemaker—trailblazing rider Donna Cheek—Zoie discovered that a second grader at her former elementary school had chosen her as her Changemaker. Dressed in full show attire and braids to match, the young student had written and presented a speech honoring Zoie’s journey. What followed was a surprise visit, a heartfelt classroom Q&A, and a powerful reminder that riding isn’t just about ribbons—it’s about leaving a legacy. Read the full story here.
Former show jumper Dani Waldman isn’t one to dodge hard questions — and her latest Horse Bytes episode is no exception. This time, she takes aim at the idea of meritocracy in show jumping, asking: Is it really a sport, or just a hobby for the wealthy? Dani doesn’t hold back, pointing to the influence of money at the 5* level and floating the idea of price caps to level the playing field. But as the episode and a thoughtful rebuttal make clear, the issue is far more nuanced than any quick fix. You can watch the full episode here.
For 16-year-old Arya Vivekanandan, finding a new trainer meant finding a second family at Oasis Farm in Woodside, CA. Led by longtime horseman Colin Daly, Oasis has become a haven for riders who value connection, community, and holistic horsemanship. A lifelong equestrian with a background in both international development and interior architecture, Colin blends classical training with a deep commitment to personal growth—for both horses and humans. “If you want to learn,” Daly says, “you are welcome.” Read the full story here.
Angela Bowles and Novelle. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Many thanks to Angela Bowles for sending in the following tribute to her horse of a lifetime, Novelle, who passed away recently at the age of 23.
Novelle was sent to young professional Angela Bowles as a three-year old sales prospect. She quickly demonstrated her athletic ability by frequently bucking Angela off and made it abundantly clear that she really did not like dressage. Nonetheless, Angela decided she’d like to keep Novelle for herself. A failed PPE that revealed several OCD lesions ultimately stopped Angela from buying the mare, who went back to her owner when Angela moved back to Texas to begin her professional career. As Fate would have it, Novelle’s owner offered to gift the quirky mare to Angela, and they embarked on the most unlikely journey together.
As a team, Angela and Novelle competed through the Preliminary level with considerable success. As a rising young professional trying to make ends meet, Angela was once again faced with the hard decision to part with Novelle. But Fate stepped in again: no one was interested in the petite TB mare who barely tolerated the dressage phase and had a subpar vetting. She secured a permanent home in Angela’s care–exactly where she would stay for the rest of her life.
Angela Bowles and Novelle. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
A rough start to her Intermediate career saw the pair step back to Preliminary for a development year, where Novelle was awarded the 2010 USEA Preliminary Horse of the Year honor–the first of many career accolades. Following the brief pause in their growth through the levels, there was no looking back. Angela and Novelle were named to the developing riders team in 2012, and then successfully moved up to Advanced in 2013. They were second in the CCI4*-S at Copper Meadows; won the Advanced at Texas Rose Horse Park in 2014; and won the Advanced at the Colorado Horse Park in 2016. The pair also had wins at the Grand Prix level in pure show jumping, giving Angela a taste of her future in that discipline. The highlight of Novelle’s time with Angela was twice completing the Rolex Kentucky 5* (2015 and 2016), winning everyone’s admiration for their grit and determination across the country. [Read Angela and Novelle’s ‘Rolex Rookie’ Profile here]
Novelle and Angela completed an astounding fifteen consecutive competitions without a rail down.
After Novelle told Angela her time at the upper levels was over, she spent five years showing the next generation the ropes of the sport she loved. In total, Novelle completed more than 140 USEF recognized competitions with ten riders. She safely guided many through their first horse trials or through their first outings at a new level. Novelle was a gift to every rider she carried, no matter the discipline or competition level. [Read more about Novelle’s incredible career here]
Angela Bowles and Novelle. Photo by Jenni Autry.
Novelle was laid to rest at Fat Dog Farm in Rockbridge Baths, Virginia, overlooking the field where she enjoyed her retirement years as the matriarch of Angela’s stable. She will be forever known for her diminutive size, unassuming personality, and unwavering love for cross country. Angela and Andy Bowles would like to thank all of the veterinarians and farriers who cared for Novelle during her career, as well as all of the riders and families who loved her like she was their own. A special thank you goes to Tamie Smith, Mike Huber, Mark Phillips, and Matt Cyphert: your belief in us changed the course of our lives.
It’s officially closing day for entries to the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event! We’ll be anticipating a full reveal of the entries coming soon, but in the meantime we’re just chomping at the proverbial bit to get on over to Kentucky and get the #BestWeekendAllYear underway!
This year we’ll also have the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S competition running alongside the traditional 5*, as well as a newly-upgraded Kentucky International CSI5* show jumping competition with a Grand Prix on Saturday evening. Tickets are required for the show jumping and for reserved seating/general admission for the eventing competition, so be sure to snag yours here. Reserved seating is likely to sell out, so be sure to get your friends together and make your plans!
If you want to join us in madly refreshing the website for entries, you can do so here.
Catch up with the new U.S. eventing chef d’equipe and High Performance Manager Leslie Law on the latest episode of the USEA Podcast. Listen in as Leslie answers some questions about his new role and responsibilities, what he’s thinking about the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, and more here.
Speaking of podcasts, the third episode of The Go Eventing Podcast is coming your way this morning! Get to know our co-host, Ema Klugman as we recap Carolina and preview the events happening this weekend, talk about 5* horse numbers and ownership support, and much more. Listen on your favorite podcast platform or here.
Sometimes it’s not about the ribbons — it’s about the rider who shows up with grit, grace, and an undeniable love for the sport. Meet 15-year-old Harvest Renfro, a shining example of sportsmanship and spirit, who represented Area VI at the 2023 USEA Emerging Athletes U21 (EA21) National Camp. Selected not for topping leaderboards but for her positive attitude, volunteerism, and unwavering work ethic, Harvest is what eventing is all about. Read all about Harvest here.
Check out the incredible story of the one-eyed horse who represented Sweden in the Longines League of Nations leg in Ocala this past weekend! Read it here.
Sponsor Corner: Kentucky Performance Products
Horses, like people, do cough occasionally. But if your horse is coughing persistently and has symptoms like nasal discharge and labored breathing during exercise, that warrants attention—even if your horse doesn’t have a fever or hasn’t been exposed to sick horses recently.
Equine respiratory issues can crop up at any time of year—especially those caused by a respiratory virus or shipping fever (bacterial pneumonia). But breathing problems related to equine asthma can become more frequent or severe toward the end of winter and early spring, when horses and ponies have been exposed to more dust and allergens in hay, barns, stalls, and indoor arenas. If your horse is coughing but doesn’t have an elevated temperature, hasn’t traveled, and hasn’t been around a horse with a respiratory infection, your veterinarian might suspect equine asthma.
Episode 3 of The Go Eventing Podcast is coming your way TOMORROW! This episode features Aussie 5* rider (and regular EN contributor!) Ema Klugman, and you’ll hear an in-depth recap of Carolina International, a preview of the next batch of 4*-S prep events, all about ownership and syndication options, and much more!
Don’t forget to subscribe/follow us on your favorite podcast platform or here on our main podcast hub.
U.S. Weekend Results
March H.T. at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Scores]
Full Gallop Farm March II H.T. (SC): [Website] [Scores]
News & Reading
British rider Olivia Roberts is back eventing and feeling strong after suffering multiple spinal fractures, multiple broken ribs, and collapsed lungs in a cross country fall last summer in which her horse, who was uninjured, fell on her. Prior to this accident, she had never so much as broken a bone. “What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger” rings true for this brave young girl, and you can read all about her comeback here.
We toss around the word “mindset” often, but sport psychologist Daniel Stewart warns that mindset can steer us in all sorts of directions — and not all of them are useful. If you’re looking to “chart your own” mindset course, look no further than Coach Stewart’s latest “Pressure Proof” column.
Moving the lens over to show jumping for a moment, Team USA’s horses and riders secured their first-ever Longines League of Nations qualifier win on Saturday night at the World Equestrian Center – Ocala. Featuring two Paris Olympians (and one Paris horse), the thrilling competition came down to the final ride, which was none other than team stalwart Mclain Ward and his Paris partner, Ilex. Read more about how it went down and where the U.S. stands in this year-long global competition here.
This article came out last year, but since we hear Belgian Olympian Lara de Liedekerke-Meier may be making a trip stateside to Kentucky this spring, we thought this article all about eventing breeding and a very special mare to be worth a reshare.
Video Break
Stuart Buntine and Jo Williams, sister of Georgie Campbell and organiser of the Georgie Campbell Foundation, talk about the importance of on-going safety initiatives and thinking outside ‘the box’ in frangible fence design
Three cheers for eventing season being well underway! This week, we anticipate the potential of both Kentucky and Badminton entries being revealed at long last, and there’s plenty of action to follow along with all over the globe. Where are you out and about this weekend?
A new live stream option for eventing is hitting the airwaves in 2025! Galway Downs in southern California will be the first event livestreamed on Equestrian+, which will host a free livestream (membership/subscription is required for on-demand viewing) of the CCI3*-S and CCI4*-S divisions at the Galway March International Horse Trials March 27-30. Commentators for the stream will be Frankie Thieriot Stutes and Spencer Sturmey. Be sure to tune in live! Click here for more information.
Looking for a hassle-free way to help your horse post-performance? Check out the Equilibrium Hotspot Mitt. Offering targeted heat and vibration to stimulate blood flow to sore muscles, It is the perfect addition to your therapeutics routine.
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Ride around the CCI4*-S track at Carolina with Elisa Wallace and Lissavorra Quality:
Michael Jung and fisherChipmunk FRH. Photo by Shelby Allen.
Exciting news for all of you stalking Kentucky entries! We’ll be able to reveal the full entry list next week, we think, but in the meantime one Olympic gold medalist named Michael Jung has confirmed on his social media that his Paris and Tokyo Olympic partner (and former Kentucky winner) will be returning to the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event next month!
We’re anticipating a great showing of support from overseas-based combinations and already know of several U.S.-based pairs aiming at the 5* as well as the Cosequin Lexington 4*-S, so stay tuned for the full list reveal but in the meantime, get ready to enjoy potentially one of the last 5* competitions we’ll see from the 17 years young Chipmunk. Could there be one more Kentucky win coming from this pair? We’ll have to watch and find out!
Christoph Hess, one of the most respected voices in dressage and eventing training, dives into the importance of mastering the basics in this insightful piece from The Horse Magazine. He emphasizes that true success in training comes from correct, systematic riding—no shortcuts allowed! From developing the horse’s balance to achieving a proper connection, Hess reminds us that the foundation is everything. Read more here.
What do top Olympic dressage riders like Steffen Peters and Laura Graves have in common? A deep understanding of biomechanics. Dressage Today explores how these elite athletes fine-tune their positions and aids to create harmony with their horses. From core strength to subtle weight shifts, their insights offer valuable takeaways for riders at every level. Read more here.
The USDA has announced that there will be no changes to the Horse Protection Act for 2025, meaning ongoing efforts to strengthen regulations against soring remain stalled. While advocates continue pushing for stricter enforcement, the existing rules will stay in place for another year. The Chronicle of the Horse has the full update here.
For many amateur riders, competing at Badminton is the dream — and for one grassroots eventer, that dream is becoming reality. British Eventing shares a personal journey to the LeMieux Badminton Grassroots Championships, highlighting the dedication, challenges, and sheer determination it takes to qualify for one of the most prestigious amateur events in the sport. Read more here.
Look back on some scenes from the March Eventing Academy at Stable View! Be sure to sign up for the next edition of the Eventing Academy, coming next in July. View the full calendar here.
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Hear from William Fox-Pitt as he stops by The Jon & Rick Show!
Now is your chance to help our neighbors to the north support their team’s efforts to get to future championships! Join the Canadian eventing team in Ocala for a Red & White Party on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Club Adena. The evening will feature live and silent auctions absolutely chock-full of items up for grabs, dinner, dancing, and more! VIP Tables (8 seats) are available for $2,000, offering an exclusive experience with friends, colleagues, and special perks. Individual tickets are also available for $175. To donate an item for the silent or live auctions, or to become a sponsor for the event, please contact Sue Bundy at [email protected] or +1-416-358-6461.
Host of the Horse Person podcast and many other shows throughout her career, Caroline Culbertson is somewhat of an “Oprah” presence within our industry. Dive into a new feature all about Caroline and why telling stories in this medium means so much to her here.
How does the USEA’s Eventing Coaches Program (ECP) help instructors level up? Hear it first-hand from a student of ECP coach Rebecca Brown, and why this program has made the important work done by professionals such as Rebecca that much more impactful. Read the story here.
It may be slightly warmer out these days, but chilly temperatures still exist and there are some considerations to make when it comes time for bathing your horse. Practical Horseman has some tips for you here.
British 5* rider Harry Meade went on an epic journey south to Italy last weekend to contest the first 4*-L of the season with former William Fox-Pitt ride Graffenacht. He and “Lillie” went on to take the win and, most valuably, obtained their 5* competition qualifier in the process. Harry’s not sure yet on where he’ll take this super mare, who’s very nearly won a 5* and certainly has the chops to repeat or better the feat, but we’ll be keen to follow along! Read up on Harry and Lillie’s weekend here.
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Level up your post-competition leg care with top #supergroom Max Corcoran:
Chris Talley and MBF Firebrand. Photo by Sally Spickard.
Did you miss out on the action at the Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International last weekend? Catch up now with on-demand replays on Horse & Country here and via our coverage here.
They say you can’t have it all, but Mallory Hogan seems to be doing exactly that. She recently completed her undergraduate studies, passed the LSAT and is starting law school—having also competed in eventing up to the CCI4* level across the country. Most remarkably, she’s done it all with—and perhaps thanks to—one horse. Don’t miss a new feature on Maddie here.
Want some help with confidence and getting rid of those jitters? The first part of a new series on Horse & Hound has been published with several pieces of advice on how to get that self-belief up as you look to the year ahead. Read it here.
As society debates the use of animals in sport, entertainment, and leisure, there is an increasing focus on the environmental impacts of such activities. The equestrian industry, like most sports, is both affected by climate change and a contributor to it through its reliance on water, land, and fossil fuels. Read up on the impact and sustainability of equestrian sports here.
The #AikenShowcase has grown bigger and better each year since the inaugural event in 2019. With each consecutive year, the AHPF & Organizing Committee implement new ideas and improvements to continue bringing our guests the best experience possible. You can help us by taking just a few minutes of your time to answer the following survey. The first half deals with the economic impact the event has on our local community. This information is vital to the event’s continued support from the City of Aiken. The second half of the survey gives you a chance to provide some feedback. Click here to take the survey.
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Help your older horse feel his or her best with this series from Horse & Country:
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation’s (FMFEF) Spring Festival Fundraiser in Finksburg, MD! In an effort to raise funds to support a new grant aimed at providing opportunity to marginalized riders, the FMFEF is hosting several fundraising opportunities this year. Don’t miss out on a forthcoming silent auction, to which EN has donated three months of advertising (plus many more even cooler things up for grabs!).
New Mini Episode alert! The Go Eventing Podcast is launching bite-sized interviews, starting with Kareem Rosser, author of Crossing the Line and When You’re Ready. Kareem shares his journey with horses, his work with Work to Ride, and his deep connection to Lee Lee Jones, who sustained a traumatic brain injury in 2016. This unedited conversation is raw, inspiring, and not to be missed. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform or here.
Do you know the ins and outs of the USEA Eventing Omnibus? There is tons of information at your fingertips when you dive in, including things like that to expect from the cross country course, which dressage test you’ll be riding, who the officials are, a tentative schedule, and more. It behooves you to know the omnibus, so click here to read more on getting the most from each listing.
Olympic medalist and World Champion Ros Canter and rising star Saffron Cresswell had both entered the ballot for this year’s London Marathon (April 27). After Saffron broke her back in two places and sustained damage to her spinal cord in a fall at Bramham last June, Ros decided to run in aid of Spinal Research, which aims to restore function and movement for people with spinal cord injuries. Read more here.
Do we need an equine SafeSport program? One writer for The Chronicle of the Horse thinks so. In a recent editorial on COTH, Armand Leone writes about the potential of a similar type of “SafeSport” program that could, in the end, become an advocacy voice for the horses who cannot speak for themselves when it comes to how they are being treated. Read more of Armand’s views here.
Check out this recent review of KPP’s Contribute supplement, An affordable and tasty way to add essential omega-3 fatty acids to your horse’s diet.
““My 31-year-old mare is so much more comfortable now that she has Contribute included in her diet. Her movement is more fluid. I fed another Omega 3 oil product from another manufacturer before I found Contribute. Contribute has made her much more comfortable compared to the other product, Contribute is also less expensive. She loves the taste.”
Eventing is in full swing in Italy, and we had the first 4*-L of the European season at Montelibretti over the weekend. This early season competition was won by Great Britain’s Harry Meade, who has taken over the ride on former William Fox-Pitt mount and 5* podium finisher Grafennacht, owned by Amanda Gould.
Harry and “Lillie” bested the field of 14 starters with a finishing score of 39.1 to start their season off with a bang on a wire-to-wire victory.
You can view the full results from Montelibretti here.
Proper conditioning is a very important factor in getting the most out of a competition horse. There are two elements to fitness—cardiovascular and musculoskeletal. They are equally important. Both are ideally developed through long slow distance work (LSD). Such is the advice from Shelley Onderdonk, DVM, in a new excerpt from her book, Winning with Horses. Click here to read the full excerpt.
Read more on Caroline Pamukcu’s victory in the Bouckaert Equestrian International 4*-S earlier this month, a little more about he winning horse, HSH Double Sixteen, what it’s been like to return to competition post-baby, and more in this write-up.
With modern veterinary technology, there are several ways to breed your treasured mare should she have trouble getting pregnant or carrying a foal. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection, or ICSI, an alternative to traditional embryo transfer, is becoming a popular option for the sport horse mare. Read up on this method and its growth in use here.
Did you watch the combined driving demo at the Stirling Venture Capital Grand-Prix Eventing earlier in the month (or see what we call “eventing’s sister sport” elsewhere?) and catch a bit of the bug? Learn all about this incredible sport and its athletes in this primer.
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Sentinel Horse Feed makes a great refresher ingredient for long hauls!
Have you listened to the latest episode of The Go Eventing Podcast yet? You won’t want to miss our conversation with 5* rider and ECP coach Bec Braitling. Find The Go Eventing Podcast here or on your favorite podcast platform!
A very special painting is in the works at the Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International, painted by the ever-talented Larissa Ann, who’s live-painting all weekend in the Carolina Club tent. This year’s paintings feature former winner here, Liz Halliday, as we continue to keep her close during her recovery after a cross country accident left her with a traumatic brain injury. The paintings will be auctioned off to benefit the Carolina Horse Park, and if you want a shot at winning one, click here to place your bid.
here are many options when it comes to sports boots for your horse. How can a person choose?
Choose boots that are fully tested and backed by science! Choose boots that feature details like a durable woven hem that protects the edges of your boots without rubbing. Choose Equilibrium Tri-Zone Impact Sport Boots to protect your horse.
Defender Kentucky is drawing ever closer, and it’s time for an update from designer in chief Derek di Grazia as this year’s cross country takes shape. Hear what Derek had to say in the video below!
