Olympic combination Mélody Johner and Toubleu de Rueire topped an all-female podium on home turf at CHI Geneva’s Indoor Cross. Dutch Olympian Janneke Boonzaaijer and Acsi Champ de Tailleur and Belgian Olympian Lara De Liedekerke-Meier and Kiarado d’Arville claimed the other podium spots.
Need some new blankets this winter season? You can save 20% on SmartPak blankets using code DecBlanket at checkout! Shop here.
With the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention in the rearview, we’ll dedicate this section to relevant news from the weekend:
Molly Pellegrini is the USEA President Elect, the US Eventing Association confirmed over the weekend. Molly first took on the role of active horse show mom, but her years of servitude on countless boards made her an excellent candidate to support the sport at the grassroots level, and she soon found herself working alongside Meg’s Pony Club, serving on the USEA Area VI Board, and eventually becoming a member of the USEA Board of Governors. Read more about Molly here.
Catch up on some key updates from the USEA Board of Governors meeting held at the Annual Meeting and Convention in Seattle this weekend. Among the updates: some Board of Governors personnel changes were made, different models for future Annual Meetings will be examined by a newly-formed Task Force, next year’s Convention will take place in New Orleans, and much more. See more in this easy to follow breakdown of the meeting.
Upcoming rule changes for 2025 were discussed at the Rule Change Forum in Seattle this weekend. A few changes that pertain to eventing include a potential to allow horses and riders to wear biometric sensors for safety purposes, a definition of faults to align with the FEI’s regulation on reattempting frangible devices, and others. Read a summary here.
Tik Maynard, a 4* rider and winner of the 2024 Road to the Horse Colt Starting Championship, gave a moving address as the keynote speaker at the Convention. He reflected on the Road to the Horse competition and how he applies the lessons learned to his eventing, how he encourages others to find their “superpower”, and more. Read a recap of his speech here.
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Watch Kirsty Chabert and Classic VI take on a slightly different type of competition:
Do you make most of your income outside of horses? Are you competing regularly at Beginner Novice or above? Apply for the C Square Farm/ Excel Star Sporthorses Amateur Scholarship!
Winners will receive board for themselves and one horse for a total of 7 days in 2025. The scholarship can be redeemed in Aiken, SC or Nottingham, PA, as Courtney travels. Winners will also enjoy daily lessons on their horses, (with the possibility to ride other horses), and coaching at an event if they choose to compete during their stay.
Transportation to/from C Square Farm, outside facility fees, and competition entries are not included in the scholarship.
Ready to apply? You can request one by emailing [email protected]. Applications should be submitted TODAY, December 15, 2024. Courtney and a panel of her Amateur clients will review applications and choose a winner by December 31, 2024. Good luck to all!
The 2024 Wofford Cup recipient Daine Pitts receives a big hug from Jim Wolf during the 2024 USEA National Year-End Awards Banquet. USEA/Meagan DeLisle photo
United States Eventing Association (USEA) members from all over the country gathered on Friday afternoon for the 2024 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention Year End Awards Ceremony. The afternoon’s ceremony was led by Master of Ceremonies Jim Wolf and recognized riders, horses, and game-changers in the sport of eventing with multiple awards and grants. We’d like to congratulate all of the award winners from this year, and there’s a big list to dive into!
A few notable awards:
USEA Wofford Cup (The Wofford Cup identifies those who have given so much to the sport that they rise to the very top. They dedicate their life to the betterment of eventing): Diane Pitts
Rebecca Broussard International Developing Rider Grant: James Alliston
Rebecca Broussard National Developing Rider Grant: Julie Wolfert
Essex Horse Trials Grant: Cassie Sanger
The Wilton Fair Grant: Cassie Sanger and Gabby Dickerson
USET Connaught Grant: Sharon White
American Horse Trials Foundation Chasing the Gold Grant: Sharon White
Richard Picken Memorial Grant: Madelyn Cease
Kim Meier “Kick On” Memorial Grant: Jules Batters
Don’t miss the full recap of all the goods given out yesterday here.
The Equilibrium Therapy Massage Pad and Hotspot Massage Mitt from World Equestrian Brands are perfect additions to your training program to help keep your horse free from unnecessary soreness. These products can be easily integrated as a pre-ride warm-up and a post-ride recovery option. Shop for yours here.
A little piece of history leads us off this Friday morning, all the way from Burghley Horse Trials in the UK! Here’s what Burghley shared about this photo series:
We were sent the first of these photos by Pierre le Goupil, Course Designer of the 2024 Paris Olympic cross-country course, from his parents home last week – an invitation from British Equestrian (formerly the BEF), and Burghley Horse Trials to the drinks party for the 1974 World Championships held at Burghley. Pierre’s parents were both successful event riders, and his late father, Andre, competed at the 1968 Olympic Games.
This little piece of history inspired a further look into our archives to these World Championships, which were won by Bruce Davidson and Irish Cap. This victory marked the first time an American had won a World title in eventing. It was a pivotal achievement for the sport in the US and contributed to their hosting of the next World Championships at Kentucky in 1978.
The 1974 World Championships were the second that Burghley hosted, the first being in 1966. In only the second year of the horse trials running, Burghley hosted the European Championships (1962), and went on to host a further five in 1971, 1977, 1985, 1989 and 1997, as well as one Young Riders European Championship in 1978 – no other horse trials site has staged as many Championships.
Thank you Pierre, for inspiring a trip down memory lane!
News & Reading
Here is your chance to support one of our valued eventing venues, Virginia Horse Center. The Virginia Horse Center Foundation is running its annual donation drive to support ongoing efforts to improve and expand the Horse Center in Lexington, VA. You can donate here.
Equestrian Australia is updating its helmet safety standards to follow recent updates to FEI guidelines.Click here to see how this affects your helmet choice for competition.
Sally Cat is a 7-year-old mare who transitioned from an untrained rescue to a confident eventing partner under the guidance of Mikenna Hallock. Sally Cat had farm from an auspicious start to her career, having been surrendered to a rescue after her initial owner entered hospice care. She was untrained and fearful, but with Mikenna’s help she’s transformed into an eventing partner of a lifetime. Read this inspiring tale here.
Working with a new OTTB this winter? The first ride outside of the arena can often be a little anxiety-inducing, but never fear! The Retired Racehorse Project has rounded up some advice from a pro to help you make this a great experience for both you and your horse. Read it here.
Entries are officially open for the Aiken Opener H.T., happening January 18 and 19 at Stable View in Aiken, SC! Divisions from Starter through Preliminary are on offer, and it’s a great opportunity to start knocking off that winter rust and legging up for the new season. You can make your entry here, and you can also learn more about the full calendar at Stable View here.
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Make those braids and quarter marks shine next season with these tips from freelance #supergroom Jennie Savolainen:
Boyd Martin and Fedarman B. Photo by Tilly Berendt.
It’s time to vote for the EquiRatings Horse of the Year for 2024! Eight horses have been nominated for the top honor, including the USA’s Fedarman B, owned by the Annie Goodwin Syndicate and partnered with Boyd Martin for the Paris Olympics.
Julia Krajewski and Nickel 21. Photo by Tilly Berendt.
It’s truly an impossible list to choose from, but one must rise to the top!
To vote, join the EquiRatings Eventing WhatsApp channel here and vote in the poll. Voting closes next Wednesday December 18 at 16:00, when the winner will be announced.
You can also hear more background on the contenders for this year’s award in the launch podcast here.
News & Reading
Get ready to kick off the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention in Seattle, WA! The USEA has rounded up all of the information on sessions, special events, and more for the weekend ahead. Bookmark this for more resources.
Sydney Collier is a powerhouse in the world of Para-Dressage, a Paralympian, and one of the stars of the award-winning documentary ParaGold. Known for her determination, infectious positivity, and groundbreaking achievements, Sydney has redefined what it means to pursue greatness in the face of adversity. Read an exclusive interview with Sydney here.
In the latest episode of the Major League Eventing podcast, hear from 1994 WEG Individual Silver Medalist and Inaugural Kentucky 5* winner Dorothy Crowell. Dorothy talks about her famous partner, Molokai who was inducted into the USEA Eventing Hall of Fame in 2015. Today, Dorothy organizes Educational Classical Format 3-Day event for Starter up to Training and discusses the importance of horsemanship. Listen to the episode here.
Four-time Olympic medalist and renowned cross country designer Ian Stark sat down with Horse & Hound for a chat on being superstitious at competitions, learning respect for his horses and the importance of feeding according to work. Read the interview here.
Continuing our vein of Olympic horses coming back from vacation, perhaps in *slightly* more civil fashion, here’s a look at Tom McEwen getting JL Dublin back and going after a well-earned holiday following Paris. That’s the gold medal life right there!
U.S. Weekend Preview
The 2024 season has officially ended! We’ll see you in January with more shows coming your way.
News & Reading
The story of Caroline March, the sister-in-law of British 5* rider Piggy March who passed away earlier this year, is one that carries a heavy weight. Through the efforts of organizations such as Cycle4Caroline, which is raising funds and awareness for the British Eventing Support Trust and Spinal Research, is the tip of the iceberg. This thought-provoking and emotion-inducing article (a fair warning to the reader, the content deals heavily in the concept of assisted suicide) provides a glimpse at the lived experience of those who carry on Caroline’s memory.
Ram truck owners: check your mail! Stellantis, the parent automaker of Ram, has issued a recall of over 300,000 Ram Heavy Duty pickup trucks because a faulty part could cause certain braking and tracking systems to fail. The trucks in question are all model years 2017-18 and include the Ram 2500, 3500, 4500 and 5500. The recall includes a total of 317,630 trucks, including a small number of them in Canada, Mexico and elsewhere. You can read more information about this recall here.
Since its inception in 2015, Detroit Horse Power has served the city’s youth, ages 11-18, with riding and other equine-related programming that helps its young participants develop social and emotional skills. For those nine years, the organization has operated on borrowed horses, equipment and facilities, transporting students from the urban center to participating barns outside of Detroit. Now, Detroit Horse Power is building what stands to be the largest urban equestrian center, continuing to make moves in a world that remains heavily inaccessible due. Read more on their exciting expansion here.
Want to become a professional equine photographer or improve the skills you already have? Now is your chance to learn from one of the best in the business! Shelley Paulson, an equestrian photographer with over 20 years of experience, has opened up her Wings Equestrian Photography Mentorship program, a 3-month, immersive mentorship and learning experience, for new participants! You can learn more information and apply for a spot here.
It wouldn’t be winter without us waiting with bated breath for the next installment of “how London 52 comes back from vacation”, otherwise known as “whatever Laura Collett eats for breakfast, I’ll have twelve”.
Laura shared a compilation of her 5* and Olympic partner enjoying the, errr, joys of jumping over the last few winters, and we’re eagerly awaiting the 2025 edition! Never change, London 52. Never change.
Ingmar De Vos and Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges have been elected as President and Vice-President of the International Horse Sports Confederation at the IHSC General Assembly in Hong Kong on December 6. The IHSC was established in 2013, when the FEI and the IFHA joined forces to create the first formal vehicle for cooperation between the world’s leading bodies for equestrian sport. Read more here.
Equine Network has acquired a controlling interest in Nilforushan Equisport Events to further enhance equestrian shows on the West Coast. This collaboration aims to make the West Coast the preferred destination for hunter/jumper events. Read more on this new partnership here.
A new Education and Research Fund has been established in memory of Chromatic BF through The Foundation for The Horse. The “Chromatic Fund,” a collaborative initiative of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), US Equestrian (USEF), Chromatic’s breeder KC Branscomb, and The Foundation for The Horse will fund innovative research and education initiatives designed to improve the health and welfare of sports horses worldwide. Read more here.
A study of dressage horses found oral lesions caused by the bit in a surprising 45% of horses examined at one competition. At the 19th International Society for Equitation Science (ISE) Conference in New Zealand, associate professor Janne Winther Christensen presented her recent findings: “Oral behaviour during riding is associated with oral lesions in dressage horses – A field study” with co-author Dr. Mette Uldahl. The talk discussed the relation between oral behaviour and lesions in the corners of the mouth in dressage horses. Her presentation highlighted the importance of understanding discomfort signals and emphasised the need for improved training practices to enhance equine well-being. Read more on the study here.
As you continue to care for your equine companion through the seasons, it’s important to adapt your horse care approach to their ever-changing needs. This guide from Kentucky Performance Products delves deeper into specific strategies for managing your horse’s well-being during the transitional periods of fall and spring. From adjusting their diet to accommodating fluctuating weather patterns and maintaining stable conditions, you’ll find provide actionable tips to keep your horse healthy and comfortable no matter the season right here.
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Nail your spiral circle to improve suppleness with Amelia Newcomb Dressage:
CCI5* and World Championships athlete Sinead Halpin Maynard has launched a new side hustle aimed at helping her fellow riders harness their true potential.
“I have been lucky enough in my career to have several wonderful mentors that have advised me throughout my horse journey,” Sinead wrote in a launch post on social media. “But, my location had a lot to do with the luck I had in finding those mentors. I realize being in the hub of Eventing is not possible for everyone; even if you are in a good location, getting someone to sit down with you for a hour can be daunting. Enter a new concept: Mindfuel Mentorship that aims to create a space (not bound by physical location) to help build confidence and provide council for others navigating their own horse journeys.”
Interested in learning from Sinead? Click here for more information.
U.S. Weekend Results
Rocking Horse December H.T. (FL): [Website] [Scores]
Full Gallop Farm Jingle Bells H.T. (SC): [Website] [Scores]
News & Reading
Only a few hours left to enter our giveaway to win a $400 shopping spree with the new apparel brand, Thiandro Equestrian!Click here to enter before 5 p.m. ET today.
The USEA Annual Meeting & Convention kicks off on Thursday of this week in Seattle, WA!Click here to view the full information hub, schedule, and how to secure any last-minute tickets you’ll need.
As the curtains close on the 2024 competition season, the USEA is looking back at an incredibly busy fall season. With the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill, two Dutta. Corp USEA Young Event Horse Championships, Area Championships in all 10 sections of the country, and more, there was no shortage of excitement, but the rise in IEL Team Challenges was certainly a highlight of the year for the USEA Interscholastic Eventing League (IEL). Since we last reported in October, 13 additional IEL Team Challenges were hosted at events across Areas II, III, IV, VI, and VIII, to bring the grand total for the year to 44 challenges. Read the full recap here.
Looking to develop your control, track, and rhythm?Check out this useful “zig-zag” exercise broken down by Horse Sport that can be incorporated into your next training session.
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On Netflix beginning tomorrow in the U.S.: a documentary taking us into the wild world of professional polo. Check out the full trailer below:
Entries are now open for the annual Fundraiser Clinic at Galway Downs in Temecula, CA! This three-day event features an opportunity to ride with several well-respected Area VI coaches, and this year will include a new Showcase with Olympic riders Jock Paget and Ian Stark. These Showcases will take place on Friday, January 17 (Jock Paget) and Saturday, January 18 (Ian Stark). Spectator auditing for these Showcases is available, and all clinic riders will receive complimentary auditing of the Showcases.
All proceeds from this Fundraiser are used to support the Galway Downs eventing program each season. Entries will close on January 7. Click here to enter.
Don’t forget to enter our giveaway to win a $400 shopping spree with the new apparel brand, Thiandro Equestrian!Click here to enter before Monday, December 9.
Coming next week! An online auction hosted by Renaissance Equine Rescue and Welfare Foundation and benefitting horse owners and horses in Western Carolina who have been affected by Hurricane Helene kicks off on December 10. The auction is only running for two days through December 12, so you won’t have to wait long to secure your top bids! Items on offer include donations from Sydney Elliott, Hayley Norfleet, Larissa Ann Fine Art, Breezeway Sporthorse and Diagnostic Clinic, and many more.
Don’t forget to enter our giveaway to win a $400 shopping spree with the new apparel brand, Thiandro Equestrian!Click here to enter before Monday, December 9.
Want to win an Equilibrium Therapy® Massage Pad Heatsense ($879 Value) from World Equestrian Brands? Now is your chance! World Equestrian Brands has teamed up with the educational platform Equestrian+ for a big holiday giveaway. Click here for more on how to enter!
Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro. Photo by Jenni Autry.
The FEI has suspended British Dressage athlete Charlotte Dujardin for one year and imposed a fine of CHF 10,000 ($11,300), effectively concluding the disciplinary proceedings against her.
The multi-Olympic champion had been provisionally suspended since July 23, just before the Paris Olympics, for engaging in conduct contrary to the principles of horse welfare. The time served during her provisional suspension will be credited towards the one-year suspension.
During her suspension, Charlotte is prohibited from participating in all activities related to competitions or events under the jurisdiction of the FEI or of a National Federation. British Equestrian and British Dressage have reciprocated the suspension, resulting in her ineligibility to compete in any national competition or training events during this period.
“I fully respect the verdict issued by the Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI), released today.
As the federation has recognised, my actions in the video do not reflect who I am and I can only apologise again. I understand the responsibility that comes with my position in the sport, and I will forever aim to do better.
This has undoubtedly been one of the darkest and most difficult periods of my life, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported me during this time. To those of you who have sent messages, emails and tried to reach me to check in on how lam – thank you. Every kind word truly has made a difference, more than you’ll ever know.
What I was unable to share at the time is that I am currently pregnant, with my baby due in February. This was planned well before the Olympics and something my partner Dean and I have been excited about for a long time.
At the moment, the energy I have is focused on Dean and our daughter Isabella, and we are all very much looking forward to the arrival of our new family member.”
You can read more information about the FEI’s decision here. Meanwhile, we are still awaiting updates on the ongoing investigation into abuse allegations against 5* eventer Andrew McConnon, who is not listed on the currently open Case Status Table of FEI suspensions as of today.
Don’t forget to enter our giveaway to win a $400 shopping spree with the new apparel brand, Thiandro Equestrian!Click here to enter before Monday, December 9.
Toxic barn behavior: it’s likely we’ve all experienced it to some degree. This reprint from The Plaid Horse is a worthwhile read, offering insight on how one rider was affected by a toxic barn environment, and how she navigated through it. Read the piece here.
What is Neuroathletic training? It’s using the power of brain science to unlock an athlete’s full body potential. Every movement of the rider’s body starts in the brain. Olympic competitor and coach Marc Nölke explains how to direct the specific areas of the brain that control stability, sense of rhythm, precision of movement, breathing, and vision. With his unique brain-focused exercises, riders learn how to change the input sent to their brain to get healthier, more athletic output. Read an excerpt from Marc’s book here.
In The Chronicle of the Horse‘s new series, Ask Stable Sage, one reader asks about financial responsibility in the horse world. Is that even a thing? It certainly can be with a dash of responsibility and accountability, but it requires a fine balance and a willingness to get creative. Read the first Ask Stable Sage column here.
Registration is still open for the IGNITE 2nd Annual Sports Science for the Olympic Disciplines Seminar, happening at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala January 12 and 13, 2025. During this two-day seminar, thought-leaders from both equestrian and human-centric sports will gather to discuss how to use technology to enhance precision within training programs, how athletes acquire skills, how exercise impacts the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems in human and equine athletes, and how to manage chronic injuries, among other topics. Interested parties can view more and register here.
It may be a wrap on 2024, but we’re already keen to get going with the 2025 season at Stable View in Aiken, SC! Entries for their Aiken Opener H.T. (January 18-19) are currently open and the perfect way to get your new year off to a rocking start. Click here to view the full recognized eventing calendar at Stable View for the year ahead.
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In the latest episode of RIDE, presented by Longines, take a trip with the FEI back to 1913 North East England, a time rich in British history and once home to the small but mighty ‘Pit Pony’:
Is it too early to start planning our trip to the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event? Answer: Never!
Luckily, the team at Kentucky is ten steps ahead of us, and planning for the 2025 event (happening April 24-27) began nearly the moment the last horse crossed the finish line this past April. Get a sneak peek of the preparation that’s underway from one of the hardworking course builders working on site, Tyson Rementer, in the video embedded above or by visiting Instagram here.
Today is the final day of Early Bird Pricing for Kentucky tickets, so be sure to grab yours here — they make great holiday gifts!
Don’t forget to enter our giveaway to win a $400 shopping spree with the new apparel brand, Thiandro Equestrian!Click here to enter before Monday, December 9.
British readers! Want to win tickets to MARS Badminton in 2025? Now’s your chance! British Eventing is seeking respondents from members in its annual survey. On the table as an incentive to share your thoughts with organization are tickets to MARS Badminton, a parking pass and two season member badges to the Weatherbys Hamilton Members Enclosure. You can find more information on this survey here.
Peter Thomsen will continue to lead the German eventing team for the next four years, Buschreiter reports. He will be joined by discipline-specific coaches Anne-Kathrin Pohlmeier (dressage) and Frenchman Rodolphe Scherer (cross-country). Andreas Dibowski will take the reins of the U25 age group and development program from former coach Julia Krajewski after she stepped aside earlier this year. Jérôme Robiné, a Warendorf-based top-10 finisher at the 2023 European Championships, will assist Andreas in coaching U25 riders. Read more on Buschreiterhere.
You might recognize the name Donna Brothers, the well-known sports journalist who can be seen on NBC presenting for equestrian sports. Donna got her start in the horse world through the world of racing, eventually finding her way to broadcast and weaving a storied career across disciplines. Read more on Donna’s background, career, and how she keeps it all in balance here.
We’ve all probably dealt with a horse who does not favor having their mane pulled. A tidy mane serves different purposes, but is there more than one way to accomplish this? Explore the topic here.
It wouldn’t be the off season without some plans for improvement – we can’t help it, we’re hooked on getting better (and those dressage judges aren’t getting any more lenient!).
Education is a big deal for us here at EN, and we love to work with brands that provide accessible educational opportunities to riders everywhere. This featured Holiday Gift Guide Wishlist comes to you from Coach Krystal Kelly, who boasts an impressive resume that’s led her to all walks of equestrian life and a passion for helping others.
Coach Krystal Kelly started her company in 2021 during the pandemic and went all in as a virtual coach. She now has several extremely popular and successful virtual coaching programs where she takes her clients through step by step training plans and gives regular critiques on their riding videos. Her speciality that really separates her from the rest of the online equestrian space is her 1:1 coaching, her unique training methods focusing on biomechanics and a system and training plan for her clients to follow to get results fast.
Here are just a few of Coach Krystal’s offerings that we think would make excellent gifts this holiday season. Whether you’re shopping for that hard-to-gift friend, for stocking stuffers, for the rider with a new horse or who’s just starting out, or even for yourself, there’s something for you on our list! Be sure to check out everything Coach Krystal Kelly offers here.
Grand Prix jumpers don’t have time to set up 52 poles every day because it “looks cute” on Instagram. They stick to what works. That’s why in this complete training plan, journal and workbook all-in-one, you will find effective, simple exercises and a step-by-step curriculum to follow to help you catapult your jumping to new heights.
This *complete training plan, journal, and workbook* is designed to take your dressage skills to the next level with step-by-step guidance and scientifically backed exercises.
In this 4-week program, you’ll be guided through warm-ups, main sessions, and cool-downs tailored to progressively build your riding foundation. The unique exercises provided in this workbook focus on improving your horse’s balance, rhythm, and connection—while also sharpening your focus and precision as a rider
Use this 28-day training program to improve your jumping (and your flatwork) while also contributing to the building of a strong, healthy topline in your horse
This powerful horse riding journal includes over 190 pages and is a great tool for equestrians looking to have more structure in their rides and a organized way of documenting their progress.
Get Fun Exercises & Step-By-Step Audio Riding Instructions with a World Renowned FEI II Coach, all on your phone! No matter how remote you live, how many horses you own, what level you ride or discipline you do, you’ll find something to learn in this pack of audio lessons (which can also be purchased as a monthly subscription).
Got a budding entrepreneur who needs a solid gift? Look no further than Coach Krystal’s course all about starting and growing an equine business. You’ll get a behind the curtain look at how Krystal operates her business, as well as insights on what you should be on the lookout for in terms of best practices for a successful business.
Master contact, build topline, fix your position, strengthen your mindset, and much more in this bundle of bestsellers focusing on dressage training that will be applicable to any eventing enthusias
Not sure what the rider in your life would most like? Never fear! Coach Krystal also offers gift cards, which can be used toward any offering on her site.
This Holiday Gift Guide list was provided with support from Coach Krystal Kelly.
We’re wishing #supergroom Hailey Burlock happy trails as she leaves her post at Will Coleman Equestrian following several years of dedication and hard work to the horses in her care.
“On Hailey’s very first day, after flying from New Brunswick with a lingering bout of food poisoning, she got to the barn around evening chores, promptly picked up a broom and began sweeping with an intensity that would prove to be her trademark as she grew and developed into one of this country’s best equine grooms,” Katie Coleman wrote on social media. “We will absolutely miss her dedication to our horses, her love for competition, the silly games she played with our children and her never ending desire to improve and build upon her innate sense of horsemanship. That said, it is safe to say that her best friend Timmy is going to miss her most of all. Not many were going to be a match for Timmy’s quirks and antics but Hailey was 100% his person and such a huge part of his success. Will and I are so grateful that Hailey was with us for the prime of Timmy’s career and also that Hailey was with us while our children were young. Any horse professional who is trying to balance their business with a young family can appreciate that their quality of life is hugely dependent on the people they have in the barn. We were so lucky to have had Hailey for these formative years in our business and family.”
Area X hosted their Championships at SaZEA Horse Trials in Tucson, AZ earlier this month. Get to know the four champions who were crowned here.
Aspiring writers, here’s your sign to never give up! Natalie Keller Reinert inked a seven-figure deal with Amazon as well as Flatiron Books, complete with a forthcoming television series based on her eventing books and a new version of the books themselves. Read the inspiring story of Natalie’s journey from self-publishing to Amazon Prime here.
Heels Down Mag chimes in with some thoughts on the “it’s not natural” argument against horses being used for sport and riding. With welfare top of mind in today’s sporting world, it’s an important discussion — but is what we do with horses “natural”, or is it a part of working with domesticated animals? Read the think piece here.
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Hear from course designer Alec Lochore to gain some insights on what a cross country designer sees — and how you can think like a designer when you walk your next course:
It’s nearly time for the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention, which this year will visit Seattle, WA for its four-day gathering. This year’s Convention will take place December 12-15, and there’s a full schedule of meetings and seminars on tap. You can view the full information hub here, but make sure to clear time in your schedule for a special screening of Hoof Dreams, a documentary focusing on three women’s Olympic eventing pursuits. The documentary, directed by Jessie Deeter, is also available to stream on Peacock with a subscription.
On Saturday, December 14, you can join Jessie Deeter, and one of the film’s stars, Tamie Smith, for a screening and panel Q&A. Tickets are included with Full Convention registrations or can be purchased separately for $15 here.
Hear from some of the Cycle4Caroline riders, who finished a grueling, 1,200km+ journey from Scotland to London to raise funds and awareness for the British Eventing Support Trust and Spinal Research. The campaign brought about a rollercoaster of emotions, capturing once more the communal nature not only of our sport, but of groups of people joined in unison around a dedicated cause. You can read more in Horse & Hound‘s review here.
USEA Podcast Host Nicole Brown, USEA CEO Rob Burk, USEA President Lou Leslie, and Equiratings’ Diarm Byrne got together to reflect on a busy 2024 and the highs and lows that accompanied it. Tune in to the latest episode of the USEA podcast here.
Is a pat on the neck what your horse would choose as a reward? Research suggests it may not be, and the concept of “operant conditioning” is further explored in this article.
Generally when owners feed easy keepers they are overfeeding calories—or underfeeding nutrients. If your horse has such a low metabolism that he can easily subsist on forage alone, then his complete nutrient requirements are not being met; only his energy requirements are fulfilled. On the other hand, if you feed your easy keeper adequate forage plus 5 lb per day of a commercial grain mix in order to meet his vitamin and mineral requirements, then he is likely receiving excessive calories for his metabolism and/or workload. The horse that can meet his or her energy requirements from forage alone should have vitamin and mineral requirements met using a concentrated vitamin and mineral supplement that does not contribute calories to the diet.
Keep in mind that exercise can do wonders for these horses. A little bit of exercise in an easy keeper can go a long way to increasing his metabolic rate. And never starve your easy keeper, as it only serves to slow metabolism more. Extended fasting can lead to a dire ailment known as fatty liver disease. Remember, forage can meet an easy keeper’s energy requirements and a concentrated vitamin/mineral supplement can meet his body’s nutrient requirements.
Learn more about supporting your easy keeper here.
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Tune in for “No Stupid Questions” with Tik Maynard:
Tickets are on sale now for the $100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field, happening February 28 and March 1 in Aiken, SC. This is one of our favorite events that really feels like a kick-off to the eventing season, with big names and familiar faces guaranteed to come compete for some of the best prize money available in our sport. It’s a spectator-friendly venue and you can secure both general admission and VIP experiences right in the middle of Aiken at this link.
The ECP Symposium offers a chance for educators within our sport to continue their education and create a greater system of development for students all of over the country. A pathway to obtaining certification, or also a way to explore interest in becoming ECP-certified, this Symposium is a must-do if you’re an eventing instructor. Click here to learn more about the upcoming Symposium at Galway Downs in January.
Learn more about the incredible initiatives that have been put in place to honor the legacy of the late Georgie Campbell. There are several ways to honor her memory and to support the growth of the newly-formed Georgie Campbell Foundation, which will provide assistance to event riders in need. Learn more about these special projects here.
What “stress influencers” could be keeping you from performing at your best? Mental, emotional, physical, social, spiritual and environmental stress factors influence performance and vary from person to person, and sometimes, from situation to situation. By learning the individual stress factors, determining which factor affect us and how, and by exploring ways to remove the effects of the “detractors we have gained a “secret weapon” in the quest for high performance. Dive into the topic here.
Are you working with a senior horse with a picky palate? It’s a conundrum many horse owners find themselves in, and you might find some useful tips in this article from The Horse.
The brave cyclists participating in Cycle4Caroline reached their final destination in London at The Savoy Hotel yesterday, greeted by supporters lining the streets as they crossed the finish line. The journey took the riders over 700 miles (1,185 km) from Scotland to London, raising funds and awareness for the British Eventing Support Trust and Spinal Research in memory of Caroline March, the former eventer and sister-in-law of Piggy March who passed away earlier this year.
Cycle4Caroline is still looking to reach its fundraising goal, and you can get them closer by donating here.
The deadline to support Millbrook’s fundraising efforts to build a new Modified cross country course is approaching! This New York venue has set its sights on adding a Modified level in 2025, and needs to raise $35,000 in supporting funds to make this happen. They are oh so close to that goal, having raised over $28,000 at the time of writing. Can you help them reach this goal? Click here to learn more and donate.
Before you dive into all of the shopping deals available for the holiday season, we’re asking you to take a moment to read the story of Coach Abed Rahman Muhammad Diab, an equestrian coach formerly employed by the now-destroyed Aljawad Riding Club, living in Gaza with his family who has been struggling to keep his family and peers safe as war rages on in the area. The story of the Aljawad Riding Club was shared on The Chronicle of the Horse earlier this year.
“I am 31 years old, married and father of three children. I am a resident of the northern Gaza Strip. I will share with you my story and what happened after October 2023. I used to work as a riding coach at the Al-Jawad Equestrian Club, and I was paid a good salary,” Coach Abed wrote on a GoFundMe page set up on his behalf. “I enjoyed my job. I was able to fulfill all my needs for myself and my family. I, my father, and my brothers lived in one building of four apartments, each of us having a floor. This building was built by my father after 45 years of dedication, hard work, and sacrifice. But unfortunately, on the morning of October 13, the Occupation asked us to leave the house and go to the south of the Gaza Strip. My father and my brothers fled, along with a small newborn baby, my children. I remained in the in the house, hoping to protect her from war thieves. It was a difficult decision to leave a piece of your heart to volunteer, but there was no other alternative.”
You can also support the rebuilding of the Al-Jawad Equestrian Club here, and you can make a donation to help Coach Abed here. We’d also like to extend our gratitude to Martha Figueroa, who has taken it upon herself to stay in communication with her long-distance friends and has worked tirelessly to bring awareness and support to these equestrian heroes.
Forward Stride, a therapeutic riding center in Oregon, is partnering with the Native American Rehabilitation Association (NARA) to bring the healing power of horses to Native American youth. This program helps reconnect youth with their cultural heritage while providing therapeutic benefits through riding and interacting with horses. Dr. John Spence, a tribal consultant at NARA, emphasizes the importance of reintroducing horses to Native American culture, which was disrupted by historical injustices. Forward Stride and NARA aim to expand these programs to continue supporting youth in their recovery and transition back into their communities. This initiative highlights the growing movement to incorporate horses into therapeutic practices within Native American communities across the country, and you can read more about it here.
British Eventing is seeking a Membership and Marketing Manager, tasked with overseeing the entire membership lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding to engagement, retention, and renewal and generally fostering a positive experience for British Eventing members. Click here to see more about this position.
Celebrate the champions of this year’s USEA Classic Series! If you haven’t put a Classic Three-Day on your bucket list, definitely considering adding one and learning the true foundations of the sport. Catch up with this year’s winners here.
Do you earn most of your income outside of horses? Are you competing regularly at Beginner Novice or above? Apply for the C Square Farm/ Excel Star Sporthorses Amateur Scholarship! Winners will receive board for themselves and one horse for a total of 7 days in 2025. The scholarship can be redeemed in Aiken, SC or Nottingham, PA, as Courtney travels. Winners will enjoy board for their horse, daily lessons on their horse, (with the possibility to ride other horses), housing for themselves, and coaching at an event if they choose to compete during their stay. Applications are due on December 15 and you can request an application by emailing [email protected].
We love seeing riders gaining experience at the Stable View Eventing Academy! This low-pressure show offers plenty of opportunity to practice before competing in a three-phase one-day competition. There is one more Eventing Academy on the books for mid-December, and you can learn more about this event series here.
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Go jumping in the grand Rolex Stadium at Kentucky Horse Park with this throwback to the AECs!
Sara Kozumplik and Rock Phantom. Photo by Sally Spickard.
Happy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate! Today, we’re focused on gratitude for everything the world of horses open up to us. We are committed to contributing to a better world for our horses and ourselves, and we will never lose sight of how thankful we are to be here.
An important read for you today from The Chronicle of the Horse, where blogger Eliza Sydnor Romm analyzes the results of a survey of horse professionals, for which she received over 1,500 responses. The survey covered questions such as Are you consistently making a profit, and if so, how much? Does boarding make money in your business? How much are you paying workers, and what are your most common problems with them? Are you able to save for retirement and/or a rainy day? and the results are very interesting and telling. Read the full breakdown here.
The Technical Delegate at each event is there to help you succeed. Team STRIDER caught up with Laurie Hudson, owner of Hitching Post Farm in South Royalton, Vermont, and a USEA TD to get her top tips for riders heading to a recognized horse trial to have as smooth, safe, and fun an outing as they can. Read the full article here.
Get to know 3* eventer Ali Kuhn on the latest edition of the Major League Eventing podcast. Ali hails from Wisconsin and travels the country each season to maintain her competition schedule. Don’t miss the interview here or on your favorite podcast platform.
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Sara Kozumplik checks in to encourage you to support the USEA’s U21 Emerging Athlete program:
The beneficiary charity for the 2025 MARS Badminton Horse Trials has been selected, and it’s a good one! Guide Dogs UK is “a charity, almost entirely funded by donations, and we are the world’s largest assistance dog organisation,” according to their website. “As world leaders in puppy socialisation and dog training, we’re the only organisation to breed and train guide dogs in the UK. We’re also the largest employer of specialists dedicated to helping children and young people overcome the challenges of sight loss.”
William Fox-Pitt will lead a course walk at Badminton next year (May 7-11) to raise funds for Guide Dogs UK. “Guide Dogs is an amazing cause, and that sense of connection and working as a team resonates very strongly with me. I’ll be at Badminton as a non-competitor this year, and I’m really looking forward to supporting them there,” he commented.
The FEI World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses (WBFSH) Eventing World Championship for Young Horses may be in the rearview, but it’s never too late to look back at the experience of some special horses representing the U.S. in France. A total of six U.S. combinations competed at Le Lion, and the USEF has recapped the competition through the red, white and blue lens here.
The next generation of Phoenixes is rising! Jordan Phoenix has Olympic tenacity in her blood thanks to her super mum, Jessica Phoenix. Horse Sport caught up with this dynamic young lady and her partner in eventing, Patras VR.
Did you know Maryland Combined Training Association (MCTA) gives out grant money to members every year? To, reward MCTA’s consistent adult and junior volunteers, these grants help fund lessons, clinics, and educational opportunities. Every year, MCTA offers up to three grants of up to $500 each, and the deadline to apply for this year’s offerings is approaching on Friday, November 29. More information and the grant application can be found here.
Area IV is seeking nominations for its annual Young Riders Sportsmanship Award. This Award is aimed at riders who demonstrate qualities of true sportsmanship in all areas, consideration for fairness, ethics, and respect for team members or individuals. Nominees must be members of Area IV Young Riders, and the nominee can be a rider, spectator, groom, or anyone else who demonstrates integrity and dedication to creating a sportsman-like atmosphere within the sport of eventing. You can submit your nomination here by December 10.
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How Paul Mescal learned to ride horses for Gladiator II:
If you’re in the area, you’re invited to cheer on the Cycle4Caroline participants as they arrive at the famous Burghley House this afternoon. The cyclists will have completed a grueling 130km ride to this next stop on their destination and will love to have your support!
If you can’t attend, you can always donate to Cycle4Caroline, benefitting Spinal Research and the British Eventing Support Trust by clicking here.
Take a ride with Ingrid Klimke! In this excerpt from Riding Out dives into the training philosophy of this Olympic gold medalist, exploring her approach to creating harmony between horse and rider. From her emphasis on groundwork to cross-training with cavaletti, Ingrid shares tips that have shaped her extraordinary career. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of eventing’s finest — read the full excerpt for a glimpse into her winning strategies.
Struggling to stay balanced in the saddle?Practical Horseman has you covered with expert tips on improving stability while riding. This guide focuses on techniques to strengthen your core, adjust your position, and build confidence for a more secure seat. Whether you’re schooling dressage or heading out on a cross-country course, these strategies can help you ride with greater ease and effectiveness. Check out the full article for actionable advice.
The acquisition of Wellington International has been finalized by WI FL Acquisition, LLC, a new entity formed by the former majority owners of Palm Beach International Equestrian Center: Mark Bellissimo, Marsha Dammerman, Lisa Lourie, and Roger Smith. This strategic move includes the Winter Equestrian Festival and other key assets, with plans for facility upgrades and enhanced competitions starting in 2025. Murray Kessler has been appointed as the new CEO, bringing his extensive experience to lead Wellington International into this new chapter. Read more information here.
How can we ensure the future of equine welfare?The Plaid Horse dives into this critical topic, exploring the evolving dynamics of trust, dignity, and the human-horse relationship. The article examines the role of education, transparency, and innovation in meeting modern welfare standards while preserving equestrian traditions. Check out the full feature for a thought-provoking look at the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of horse care.
It’s that time of year again: time to start hovering over your weather app, doing the blanketing dance, and figuring out what nutritional support your horse needs to navigate the cold weather. The easiest and most effective way to keep your horse warm when the temperatures drop is to feed additional forage 24 hours before cold temps are expected, our friends at Kentucky Performance Products advise. You can find more useful nutrition and health information on kppusa.com.
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We had a special French visitor in the States for The Event at TerraNova last weekend! Check out Olympian Gireg le Coz’s travel diary from a weekend in sunny Florida:
Need a new saddle this winter? Here’s a great cause to support for a chance to win one! Bates has generously donated a saddle to a raffle supporting Cycle4Caroline, and the £10 ticket purchase price will be used to benefit Spinal Research and the British Eventing Support Trust, and you can snag your ticket for a chance to win here.
In his latest “Pressure Proof” column, Daniel Stewart introduces the concept of the “Thank Bank,” a mental strategy to help riders handle the ups and downs of equestrian sport. By focusing on gratitude and storing positive moments, riders can build resilience and find confidence in challenging situations. Head to the full article here to learn how to start your own “Thank Bank” and boost your mental game in the saddle.
Registration is now open for the 2025 US Equestrian Annual Meeting, set to take place January 23-25 in Lexington, KY. This year’s theme, “Driving Success,” will guide discussions, panels, and workshops focused on the future of equestrian sport. Don’t miss the Pegasus Awards and interactive opportunities to connect with industry leaders and peers. Visit this link for details and to secure your spot.
Should you offer your horse cold or warm water in winter?The Horse explores this common question, breaking down how water temperature can impact hydration during colder months. With practical tips for encouraging horses to drink and insights on their natural preferences, this article is a must-read for equestrians preparing for winter care. Check out the full piece to keep your horse healthy and hydrated all season long.
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Learn how Elisa Wallace builds trust and confidence with her horses:
