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Jenni Autry
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Jenni Autry

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About Jenni Autry

Originally from San Diego, Jenni discovered eventing thanks to the Bedford Hunt Pony Club in Virginia. After working in both newspapers and magazines, she joined the EN team in 2012. She travels extensively covering the U.S. Eventing Team and has reported at the Olympic Games, World Equestrian Games, Pan American Games, Badminton, Burghley, Kentucky, Luhmühlen and Pau. As for her favorite event, it’s a toss-up between Aachen and Boekelo. When she isn’t on the road, she’s busy competing her heart horse, Imperial Striker, better known as Derry.

Latest Articles Written

Friday Video: First Day at Galway Downs

By on Nov 1, 2013 10:30 am -

Many thanks to Frankie Thieriot and Bright Horse Communications for this great video recapping the first day of festivities at Galway Downs. The first horse inspection fell on Halloween, so lots of riders dressed up in costumes for the occasion. Taren Atkinson trotted up Gustav as Wonder Woman, and other members of the Justice League made appearances at the jog as well. It’s Taren’s first two-star with Gustav, so we’re sending her all the EN karma for a good trip around.

It was also EN guest blogger James Alliston’s birthday yesterday. Happy birthday, James! He’s riding Talisker in the CCI*, which is the horse’s first one-star, and you also get to see a glimpse of this very handsome horse in the video. Tamie Smith also speaks a bit about Sunsprite Syrius, the 5-year-old YEH West Coast Reserve Champion, and then we hear from Jennifer McFall, who talks about 4-year-old champion Classic Twain DF. And last but not last, we also hear from Sara Mittleider, owner and rider of 5-year-old champion Code Name. Go Galway Downs!

Galway Downs Links: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Facebook Page] [EN Coverage]

Halloween Video: Costumed Gambler’s Choice at WIHS

By on Oct 31, 2013 3:00 pm -

In the spirit of Halloween, enjoy this video of last week’s Costume Gambler’s Choice class at the Washington International Horse Show. Shane Sweetnam — dressed as a keg of beer, definitely an appropriate costume choice for an Irishman — and the lovely mare Solerina stormed around the course and cleared the 5’9″ joker’s fence to win the class. The keg of beer is clever, but definitely not as good as some of the other costumes we’ve seen in past years in this class at WIHS. Check out these videos from past years: McLain Ward as a pirate, Todd Minikus as Uncle Sam and Rodrigo Pessoa as a racecar driver. Go Halloween!

EN’s Best Halloween Costumes: Part III

By on Oct 31, 2013 10:30 am -

Happy Halloween, EN! In honor of this most festive of days, here’s the latest batch of costume photos we received from readers. I especially love Gavin and Derby dressed as William Fox-Pitt and Seacookie TSF, who won Pau just last weekend. Great foresight, Gavin! As always, if you have a ridiculous picture of your horse in a costume, send it to [email protected].

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Emily Pestl-Dimmitt: “This is me (Wonder Woman) and my Advanced horse Airlington (Superman/Clark Kent) proving his tolerance of our Halloween shenanigans and participating in our toilet paper jumping contest. Just thought it was a fun photo of him jumping a 5-foot piece of toilet paper in full costume (observe his glasses!). Below is Jeffrey, my 4-year-old cousin, aboard Airlington later on at the party.”

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Mim Royston: “We did this every year at our barn. Here is CCI2* rider Marina Royston many years ago as Tinkerbell on her horse costumed as Peter Pan.”

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Kelly Peine: “The White River Valley Pony Club hosted their annual Halloween Party on Oct. 18 at Dan Hobyn Stables in Greenwood, Ind. This Gavin Barnes and his horse, Derby, dressed up as William Fox-Pitt and Seacookie TSF.”

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Melanie McCurdy: “Just had to share my Woody and Buzz!”

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Clemson Eventing

By on Oct 30, 2013 3:00 pm -

Christina Kearse, president of the Clemson University Intercollegiate Eventing Team, sent in this fun video of the team competing at the College Team Challenge at Chattahoohee Hills in Fairburn, Ga., last weekend; Clemson finished fourth. We’re big supporters of collegiate eventing here on EN, and we’re sending a big congrats to the Tigers for their great showing at the College Team Challenge.

From Christina:

Last weekend our team sent four riders to compete at the College Team Challenge at Chattahoohee Hills in Fairburn, GA where we finished fourth. Our team is in its 10th year, and I am thrilled by the recent increase in collegiate eventing teams across the country. It was great meeting members of the other teams this past weekend, and I look forward to seeing more of you at future collegiate challenges. I would like to thank the UGA Eventing Team, Carl Bouckaert, and everyone at Chattahoochee Hills for hosting a successful collegiate team challenge and for supporting collegiate eventing.

If anyone is interested in learning more about the future of collegiate eventing, there will be a forum/discussion panel at the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention in Cincinnati, Ohio, on Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. I, along with Leigh Casaceli, will be attending this meeting to represent our Clemson team, and we would love for other college teams to be present as well. Go Tigers!

Paget, McNab Lawyer Up While Awaiting ‘B’ Sample Results

By on Oct 30, 2013 1:30 pm -

Jock Paget and Clifton Promise at Badminton. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Clifton Eventers has taken a stance of total transparency since the shocking news that Clifton Promise and Clifton Pinot tested positive for Reserpine, an FEI Prohibited Substance, following Burghley. While the eventing world awaits the “B” sample results, Jock Paget and Kevin McNab have hired lawyers experienced in FEI cases who have subsequently advised them to cease making informative updates to the public. Test results from the “B” sample should be released any day now, and we will continue to bring you the most up-to-date information on this doping scandal.

From Clifton Eventers’ Facebook Page:

Last week we started the first of what we thought would be a series of weekly updates on the matter of the positive ‘A’ sample findings for Clifton Promise and Clifton Pinot from the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, and the indefinite suspension of their respective riders, Jock Paget and Kevin McNab.

Given the likelihood that these findings will lead to an FEI Tribunal hearing where they intend to prove their innocence, both riders have now engaged lawyers experienced in FEI cases.

The lawyers have advised, given the preparation for such cases is a long complex process, we should cease making such informative updates to the public. This is contrary to our own normal policy of open and frank communication on all topics, but we do fully accept we have no prior experience at all of such FEI cases. Therefore, we will no longer be posting weekly updates from Clifton Eventers. We apologise for any disappointment, but I am sure everyone can understand that this is a very trying time when we all want to follow the advice of those who have been in this situation before.

Click here to read the full statement.

Tredstep Ireland Hosts Fashion Show in West Chester

By on Oct 27, 2013 5:00 pm -

Meet Colleen Peachey! She’s one of the new writers we’re bringing onto the EN team this fall in anticipation of some super exciting news we’ll be unveiling in the coming weeks. In the meantime, Colleen was kind enough to attend the Tredstep Ireland Fashion Show held at Rick’s Heritage  Saddlery in West Chester, Pa., last weekend. Tredstep is one of EN’s awesome sponsors, and they’re also offering $100 off their Raphael or Donatello boots this month only. Click here to check out Tredstep Ireland.

What if I told you a bit of water would rinse that coffee right off?

From Colleen:

When talking about the premiere destinations for fashion, certain cities come to mind — Paris, New York, Milan, Los Angeles … and West Chester, Pa? Ok, so maybe West Chester isn’t really a hub of activity in the fashion world. Last time I was hoofing it around town, I certainly did not see the fashion police on patrol. But last weekend, the equestrian residents of the area were able to relax and munch on some cookies (just don’t tell my trainer) while watching the Tredstep Ireland Fashion Show at Rick’s Heritage Saddlery.

Fashion show? Sure, some of you might be rolling your eyes or raising an eyebrow right now. Most riders I know don’t really have the time of day to go to something as frivolous as a typical fashion show. I mean, we spend hours every day mucking, grooming, riding, and sweating. Let’s just say that my outfits usually feature horse snot, half-eaten chunks of carrots and pieces of hay. So, how do you know if YOU would have enjoyed the Tredstep Ireland Fashion Show?

When you see a new pair of boots, do you want to grab them so you can feel and smell the buttery soft leather? Are you more excited to go shopping for a new pair of breeches than a new pair of jeans (because really, who enjoys shopping for new jeans anyway)? Do you try to talk your great Aunt Erma into buying you a new schooling top for Christmas, instead of another ghastly sweater, because you will wear actually wear it? (Even though you already have the same top in three other colors.)

I thankfully was spared from seeing a line of expressionless models marching around in outfits that would frighten small children and animals. Instead, I spent a pleasant afternoon watching models stroll around Rick’s saddle room in drool-worthy Tredstep Ireland competition and schooling gear.  If you weren’t in the audience Rick’s, here’s what you missed:

1. A fun and relaxing equestrian atmosphere: After walking through the doorway to view the fashion show, attendees were greeted with a scrumptious table of cookies, fruit and apple cider (a fall favorite in the West Chester area!). Instead of an uptight crowd, there was an assorted collection of equestrians (in various states of readiness to go mount up and ride!). The atmosphere was relaxed, and during the time before the event began, everyone’s attention was drawn to the adorable pup in audience. Tredstep Ireland’s own Elaine Jenkins served as MC for the event.

2. A heart-attack inducing demo: I love the way white breeches look as a part of my show attire as much as the next person does. But let’s face it. White breeches have to be some sort of cosmic joke when one considers that they are supposed to be worn around horses. I’ve lost count of the number of times my horse has decided to sneeze on me or just use me as a scratching post about five minutes before I’m due in the ring. At least if the offending smudge is on your butt, the saddle will block it from view (unless you’re in two point, and then, hello!). But those days are about to be over.

The demo that Elaine shared with us was done using a pair of white Symphony No. 3 Rosa breeches and a cup of Starbucks coffee. Yes, you read that correctly. Starbucks. White breeches. Pending disaster? You would think so. It seemed like a crime to intentionally pour coffee over brand new white breeches. I mean, who would DO such a thing? But then, the amazing happened. When a bottle of water was taken and poured over the breeches, the coffee all rinsed off. All of it. Seriously. Do I need a pair of these for my next show? YES!

3. Drool-worthy riding attire: Sitting there with the aroma of leather in the air and Ellie Goulding’s “Anything Can Happen” playing in the background, I started mentally picturing an upgrade to my own riding wardrobe. After seeing the absolutely incredible demonstration of the coffee conquering breeches, who wouldn’t want a pair? All of Tredstep’s clothes are designed with the rider in mind, first and foremost. Fashion and function? Yes, please!

While I felt like I was a little overwhelmed by all of the great looking attire, I’ve narrowed my favorites down enough to add them to my Christmas list. And I may have brought home a pair of Symphony No. 3 Rosa breeches for schooling. So now, I challenge you — dirt, grime, coffee. Do your worst. I’ll just laugh at you while I’m wearing my Rosa breeches. Now, excuse me while I go finish off my Christmas wish list while dreaming of field boots (because who even knows what a sugar plum is?).

Go Fashion. Go Coffee-Conquering Breeches. Go Eventing.

Top 10 Memorable Moments from Pau + Final Press Conference Video

By on Oct 27, 2013 1:58 pm -

Maxime Livio survives a mob of tween girls.

It’s been a whirlwind week here at Pau, and for our final sign-off post from France, Kate and I compiled a list of our top 10 most memorable moments. Be sure to watch the final press conference video below, in which William Fox-Pitt and Maxime Livio break down their successful weekend. Many thanks to all of you who read our posts, liked our Facebook photos and watched our videos. You’re the reason we do what we do. And last but not least, congrats to Team USA for a fantastic performance overall. If you missed my final report on the exciting finale in the show jumping today, click here, and click here to watch the show jumping video gallery. Au revoir!

Pau Links: [Website] [Final Results] [EN Coverage]

Lunch in the press tent

Top 10 Most Memorable Moments from Pau

1. When a group of drunk French people started attempting to sing “Time of My Life” underneath our hotel window at 3 a.m.

2. When it took us three days to realize our rental car was making a beeping noise because I had accidentally activated the parking brake.

3. When Andrew Nicholson stonewalled me in the press conference after the first day of dressage. Click here for video evidence.

4. When the press officer offered us celebratory booze at 10:30 a.m. on show jumping day. The French know how to get their party on.

5. When Kate came back from the trade fair with five pounds of candy … and we ate it all in 24 hours.

Don't mind if we do!

6. When it took me four days to figure out how to pronounce Neuf Des Coeurs. And I still really can’t say it properly.

7. When Kate totally abused the ghastly neon yellow photography vests the journalists had to wear and practically stood in the water jump to snap pictures.

8. When the French announcer led the enthusiastic crowd in a round of “hip hip hooray” after William Fox-Pitt brought his third horse home double clear on cross country.

9. When Maxime Livio was swarmed by tween girls requesting autographs following the final press conference. It’s safe to say he’s eventing’s newest heartthrob.

10. When the French Pony Clubbers saluted William Fox-Pitt’s victory by doing the wave as he took his victory gallop in the awards ceremony.

Go Pau, and Go Eventing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eF2zfQUNO1A

Pau Show Jumping Video Gallery

By on Oct 27, 2013 1:08 pm -

Meet Maxime Livio, eventing's newest heartthrob. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kate and I had front-row seats for show jumping at Les Etoiles de Pau, as photographers were permitted to stand in the main arena. We dutifully shot lots of photos and videos for those of you who weren’t able to follow along on the live stream or FEI TV, so, without further ado, here’s the Pau show jumping video gallery. If you watch one round, be sure to watch Maxime Livio and Cathar De Gamel, who delivered one of the seven double-clear show jumping rounds in their four-star debut to finish in second place. Maxime is currently getting mobbed by tween girls outside the press tent for his autograph, so I think it’s safe to say we’ve launched a new heartthrob here in France.

Pau Links: [Website] [Final Results] [EN Coverage]

William Seals the Deal, Americans Power Through in Wild Pau Finale

By on Oct 27, 2013 11:45 am -

William Fox-Pitt and Seacookie TSF win Pau. Photo by Jenni Autry.

This afternoon’s show jumping finale at Les Etoiles de Pau can only be described as a wild ride. Just four pairs jumped double clear rounds in the top 30 over Bernard Basque’s course, and only seven managed to do so out of the entire field of 50 — that’s just under 15 percent. William Fox Pitt — who came into the show jumping sitting in first, second and third places — had three chances to deliver a clear round, and he couldn’t pull it off, dropping a combined seven rails between his three horses. But he had a rail in hand as the final rider of the day with Seacookie TSF, and while he ended up needing it, he stills wins Pau on a final score of 45.5. This horse has previously finished second in two four-star events at both Rolex and Badminton, and now he adds a win to his record.

Maxime Livio and Cathar De Gamel. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The real story of the weekend has to be Maxime Livio, a 26-year-old French rider contesting his first CCI4* on home turf this weekend with Cathar De Gamel, a scrappy little Anglo-Arabian gelding Kate and I liked right off the bat due to how hard he tried in the dressage. They came home clear yesterday on Pierre Michelet’s cross-country course with just 1.2 time penalties to move into fifth place, and they delivered one of the handful of double clear show jumping rounds today to finish in second place on a score of 46.0. This was also the horse’s first CCI4*, and he tried his heart out once again for Maxime to jump clear today. If you didn’t get a chance to watch the press conference video from yesterday, check it out here to see more from Maxime; his English is quite good.

Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott were the second to last pair to jump today, and they came into the ring right as the boisterous French crowd was going wild over Maxime’s double clear — talk about pressure. Like many of the pairs in the top 30, they pulled two rails to ultimately finish in fourth place on a score of 52.6. And, of course, I have to note that Phillip and Cave would have won had they jumped double clear — damn those rails. We finished another American in the top 10, as Clark Montgomery and Universe also pulled two rails to finish in 10th place on a final score of 60. And continuing the two-rail trend, Lynn Symansky and Donner also dropped two poles to finish in 13th on a final score of 61.3.

Clark Montgomery and Universe. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice had the most success in the show jumping ring out of all our North American pairs, pulling one rail to finish in 16th place on a score of 66.7 for Canada. And Marilyn Little and RF Demeter round out the results for North America, pulling four rails to finish in 18th place on 68.8. It’s definitely a bummer that we didn’t get a single American around the show jumping course with a clear round, but it really was a bowling alley out there. Case in point — William Fox-Pitt and Neuf Des Coeurs — who were sitting in third place overnight — were the first pair to jump in the top 30, and they went in and pulled five rails. It wasn’t easy out there.

Lynn Symansky and Donner. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Riders ultimately needed a bit of luck to make it around the course without dropping a rail, as horses seemed to either be a bit tired after tackling Pierre Michelet’s cross-country course yesterday or rattled by the large, noisy crowds. Considering Donner jumped clear at Rolex and Universe jumped clear at Badminton earlier this spring, I’m not super concerned about the rails. We know these horses can jump clear after a grueling cross-country course. And Mr. Medicott and RF Demeter are also excellent jumpers, so I don’t think we should be too hung up on the rails. Disappointed — yes. Ripping our hair out — no. And we certainly shouldn’t let today mar what ultimately proved to be a very successful weekend for Team USA.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Recapping the weekend for Team USA, we had two pairs deliver very competitive dressage scores in the mid- to lower-40s, with the rest scoring well enough to put them within striking distance for cross country. And after the dust had settled on cross-country day, four clear jumping rounds rocketed our riders up the leaderboard, leaving four within the top 12 heading into the show jumping. And while all the Americans ultimately dropped two or more rails, the challenging show jumping course rode that way for most of the other riders too, which still enabled us to finish the weekend with four Americans in the top 20. I’ll have to see when we last accomplished that at a four-star event here in Europe; I imagine it’s been a very long time.

Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice. Photo by Jenni Autry.

A major goal in bringing so many riders to France was to see Pierre Michelet’s cross-country course in anticipation of the World Equestrian Games next year, and we now have a very good idea of what we need to do in order to be competitive in Normandy. Pierre designs thinking courses, and they’re very different from other four-star courses we’re used to riding — as in the super massive courses with pee-your-pants fences and come-to-Jesus combinations. David O’Connor confirmed earlier this weekend that we’ll be bringing a team to Saumur again in the spring to continue gaining as much experience as we can. We still have much to learn about Pierre’s courses, but we made up a lot of ground here at Pau this weekend. Stay tuned for much more from Pau.

Pau Links: [Website] [Final Results] [EN Coverage]

William Fox-Pitt and Seacookie TSF Win Pau CCI4*

By on Oct 27, 2013 11:07 am -

William Fox-Pitt and Seacookie TSF win Pau! Photo by Jenni Autry.

William Fox-Pitt and Seacookie TSF are your 2013 Les Etoiles de Pau CCI4* winners! All four Americans who show jumped this afternoon finished in the top 20, with Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicot finishing as the highest-placed U.S. pair in fourth place. Kate and I have tons of photos and videos to bring you from the exciting finale at Pau. Stay tuned for the full report.

Pau Links: [Website] [Final Results] [EN Coverage] [Live Stream]

Two Down for Michael Pollard, Shandiss McDonald at Pau

By on Oct 27, 2013 8:03 am -

Michael Pollard and Mensa. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Michael Pollard and Mensa and Shandiss McDonald and Rockfield Grant Juan both jumped in the first group to go in the show jumping at Les Etoiles de Pau, and they both pulled two rails. Michael ran into trouble at fences 3 and 12 — both oxers — and finishes the weekend with Mensa on a score of 108.0. Shandiss and Juan sit right behind Michael and Mensa in the standings on a score of 109.5, and they pulled their rails at a vertical at fence 4 and the first element of the triple combination at 6a, also a vertical.

Team USA still has four more pairs — Lynn Symansky and Donner, Marilyn Little and RF Demeter, Clark Montgomery and Universe, and Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott — to go in the top 30, which doesn’t start jumping until 2:40 p.m. local time, or 9:40 a.m. EST. And Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice will also jump for Canada in the final group. The live stream is still running today — click here to access the link — and show jumping is also streaming on FEI TV.

As I anticipated, it’s warmed up to another beautiful day here at Pau, and the crowds are out in full force lining the arena rails, which can be quite spooky for some horses. We saw a lot of tired horses in the first group, and there were just three double clears, so I’m anticipating we’re going to see a lot of poles falling in the top 30. There’s less than a rail separating William Fox-Pitt’s three mounts and Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott, so it’s going to be a very exciting finale here at Pau.

Pau Links: [Website] [Live Scores] [Show Jumping Order of Go] [EN Coverage] [Live Stream]

All Horses Pass Final Inspection at Pau

By on Oct 27, 2013 5:10 am -

Michael Pollard and Mensa. Photo by Jenni Autry.

All 50 horses that presented at the final inspection here at Les Etoiles de Pau passed and will move on to the show jumping, which begins at noon local time (7 a.m. EST). Only Helene Vattier and Jubal were sent to the holding box, and they passed upon representation. Three riders withdrew their mounts before the final inspection: Benjamin Winter and Woolpit Amble, Murray Lamperd and Under the Clocks, and Francis Whittington and Sir Percival III. All five of the Team USA horses looked well-rested and ready to go, and Michael Pollard and Mensa will be the first to jump for Team USA. The remaining four will go in the second group, in which the top 30 will jump in reverse order starting at 2:40 p.m. local time (9:40 a.m. EST). It’s a bit of a chilly morning here at Pau, but the sun is shining, and I expect the temperatures will rise as we move closer to the start time of the CCI3* show jumping.

Pau Links: [Website] [Live Scores] [Show Jumping Order of Go] [EN Coverage] [Live Stream]

Team USA Recaps a Successful Day at Pau

By on Oct 26, 2013 3:51 pm -

Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kate and I had a powwow last night before we passed out about how we would define a successful cross-country day at Les Etoiles de Pau. We ultimately decided that five riders making it around without any jumping penalties would be an A-plus day, and we came oh so close to meeting that goal. Considering we had two riders come home with double-clear trips and two more bring home clear jumping rounds with a teeny amount of time penalties, I’m still hailing today as a major success for Team USA.

Clark Montgomery — who delivered the first double clear for Team USA with Universe — wisely noted that we’re still probably a few years away from being internationally competitive on a consistent basis — and Coach David O’Connor has echoed the same sentiment — but the point is we’re on the right track. I asked Marilyn Little in our interview if she sees today as a turning point. “Sometimes all you need is a little boost. Today I think is a big boost,” she said. I couldn’t agree more.

Now we look ahead to tomorrow, when our five Americans still in the competition look to leave all the poles in the cups for show jumping. Lynn Symansky and Donner put in a very memorable clear show jumping round at Rolex this spring, and I asked her in our interview if she expected him to do the same here at Pau. She said he gets a bit nervous when people line the arena rails — and we’re definitely going to see big crowds tomorrow — but he’s an excellent jumper, and he can certainly bring it home.

Many thanks to Marilyn, Lynn and Clark for taking time to chat with me this afternoon. And I told Phillip I wouldn’t make him talk twice since we already got a chance to hear from him in the press conference, so check out that video below; Phillip starts speaking at about the 4:55 minute mark. This is the fourth time this year I’ve traveled to Europe with Team USA, and it’s the first time we’ve had an American in a press conference all year. That alone speaks volumes. Go Team USA.

Pau Links: [Website] [EN Coverage] [Live Scores] [Live Stream]

Pau: William Fox-Pitt For President, Four Americans in Top 12

By on Oct 26, 2013 1:45 pm -

Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Holy Pau. At the end of cross-country day at Les Etoiles de Pau, William Fox-Pitt is sitting in first, second and third places on scores of 41.5, 42.2 and 43.2 with Seacookie TSF, Cool Mountain and Neuf Des Coeurs, respectively, and four Americans are sitting inside the top 12. And Andrew Nicholson is probably crying quietly at his lorry. Let me say that again: William Fox-Pitt is totally dominating, and FOUR Americans are in the top 12 after cross country. William has been riding through pain this weekend after he tweaked his back at Le Lyon, but he said in the press conference that the injury luckily didn’t flare up today, and he was able to push through to deliver an unbelievable three double clear trips with all three of his horses. Talk about impressive!

Clark Montgomery and Universe. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Andrew Nicholson, on the other hand — who I imagine came into Pau thinking he would clinch yet another four-star win this weekend — had a bummer of a day on his three horses. He retired about halfway through the course with Viscount George — Kate said she heard the horse loathes keyholes and mounds, both of which made appearances on Pierre Michelet’s course — had a runout at the skinny at fence 20b with Rolex winner Quimbo and I think he might be eliminated with Mr. Cruise Control, who sort of only half jumped the corner at the final combination before galloping for home. Even if he’s not eliminated, he’s still only sitting in sixth place on Mr. Cruise Control, and he’ll have to best William’s three horses to nab a win tomorrow.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Andrew would also have to go through Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott, as they delivered a clear trip with just 0.4 time penalties to move up to fourth place heading into the show jumping. That performance meant Phillip spoke in the press conference (see the video below), so be sure to watch Phillip speak at about the 4:55 minute mark. Phillip said Cave was quite strong in the beginning of the course, and he let him get in deep to several fences to encourage him to back off, which the horse ultimately did. While Phillip had originally planned to take the direct route at the final combination — a big brush table with a rollback turn to a corner — he ultimately elected to take the longer route, which cost him that one second over time. But he wisely observed that it would have been very unfortunate to come so far only to have a runout one jump from home.

Lynn Symansky and Donner. Photo by Jenni Autry.

And that’s just where the good news begins for Team USA. Clark Montgomery and Universe were trailblazers for the Americans this morning, and they delivered the trip of a lifetime, coming home double clear to sit in ninth place and impressing the French announcer so much that she interviewed him in the main arena after their round — the only American to get tapped for an interview all day. Lynn Symansky and Donner brought home another double clear trip shortly thereafter, delivering the fastest round of the entire day for 12th place — which makes the photo I snapped of her checking her watch over the final fence all the more amusing, and it turns out they were up on the clock by a whopping 40 seconds with just one fence to go. Think you made the time there, Lynn.

Michael Pollard and Mensa. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter also came home without any jumping penalties and just 1.6 time penalties to sit in 11th place overnight. I chatted with Marilyn after her round, and she said she was 14 seconds over her minute markers toward the end of the course, so it’s really impressive she was able to make up so much time. Michael Pollard and Mensa also made it around Pierre’s course, although they picked up 20 when the horse glanced off the skinny at 20b. This is Mensa’s first four-star, and I imagine he learned a lot out there despite the jumping penalties. And now for the bad news on Team USA. Hannah Sue Burnett parted ways with Harbour Pilot when the horse slipped badly between fences at the first water complex. Though Hannah Sue tried valiantly to hang on, she just couldn’t quite save it.

Kristi Nunnink and R-Star. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Of course, the grounds crew eventually dropped gravel at that spot after multiple horses nearly went down, and the rest of the Team USA put in bigger studs to account for any slippery spots after seeing Hannah Sue’s bad luck. Kristi Nunnink and R-Star also ran into trouble at the first water complex. While I originally thought she retired on course — and the live scores also show that she retired — Joanie Morris just confirmed that they received a technical elimination when Rosie blew past the first jump at the water, and Kristi jumped the wrong fence when she tried to re-route to the option. Rosie was absolutely raring to go before they set out on course — rearing in the main arena and putting on quite a show — so I think she would have made quick work of the course.

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot. Photo by Jenni Autry.

I’m still hailing this as a major success for Team USA. We’ve spent so much time harping on how we’re not competitive in the dressage that we overlooked the most basic way to move up the leaderboard — deliver clear cross-country trips. Indeed, Phillip and Cave moved from seventh to fourth place, Clark and Buzz moved from 31st to ninth, Marilyn and Demi moved from 27th to 11th, and Lynn and Donner moved from 38th to 12. Of course, the weekend doesn’t end here, and now we need to leave all the poles in the cups tomorrow. But for tonight, let’s savor the victory. Stay tuned for much more from Pau, including Kate’s report, lots of photos, interviews with Marilyn and Lynn, video footage from cross country and video from the press conference. Go Team USA.

Pau Links: [Website] [EN Coverage] [Live Scores] [Live Stream]

Sinead Halpin Gets Ride on Super Pony

By on Oct 26, 2013 11:30 am -

Lauren DeNeve and Forrest Nymph. Photo by Jody Harwood.

Sinead Halpin is taking over the ride on Forrest Nymph, a 14.3-hand New Forest Pony mare who has successfully campaigned through preliminary and tackled her first CCI* in April. I featured Farrah on EN’s Got Talent earlier this year, and since then, her owner, Beth Davidson, decided to put out some feelers to see if any upper-level riders would be interested in seeing just how far this little mare can go. After placing an ad on Sport Horse Nation, Beth received an overwhelming response, and she talked about why she ultimately chose Sinead on her blog:

From Beth’s blog, PonyEventer:

“I had some excellent offers, from four-star riders down to 15 year olds wanting to ride their first preliminary — both foreign and domestic riders. In the end, I chose the rider who I thought would fit Farrah’s personality and riding style best and who impressed me with her professionalism. Even though she couldn’t come for a test ride due to a bum ankle, she sent her good friend Lisa Barry (who did a great job on Farrah) to test ride Farrah and called me that night with a proposal I could not refuse.

“I am so proud to say that Forrest Nymph, aka Farrah or the Red Head, will be ridden by Sinead Halpin (SHE) beginning in December. Farrah’s former owner, Lynn Simpson, and breeder, Leslie Feakins of Trevelyan Farm, are super excited as well. Black Dog Farm (where Farrah resides) will miss her Highness, but we will have a great team to cheer on this winter.”

Sinead is equally excited about bringing this super pony into her barn, and she unveiled the news last night via Facebook:

Many super ponies have been compared to the late great Theodore O’Connor since he stole America’s heart, and now we’ll all wait to see if Farrah is the real deal. With Sinead in the irons, anything can happen! Go Farrah, and Go Team SHE.

Pau CCI4* Cross Country Live Updates

By on Oct 26, 2013 10:00 am -

Fence 4AB. Photo by Kate Samuels.

Good morning from Pau! It’s another beautiful day here, and CCI4* cross country begins at 12:15 p.m. local time (6:15 a.m. EST). For those of you awake at this early hour back in the States, be sure to follow along with the live stream, which seems to be working well this morning. This is a big day for Team USA, and arguably one of the most important days of the entire season as we’re looking for seven clear cross-country trips across Pierre Michelet’s course. All seven of these horse-and-rider combinations are capable of getting around the course and have the necessary experience. It’s just a matter of getting the job done.

The general consensus amongst the riders is it’s more of a mental course than a physical course. The majority of the jumps are smaller than what you’d expect to see on a CCI4* course, but they’re set at tricky angles that will require our riders to be very accurate and committed to their lines. And while the course starts out softer with a lot of straightforward galloping fences, it builds along the way, with many of the trickier combinations coming toward the end. In that way, it’s more of a thinking course, and it’s going to require a lot of mental energy from the riders in those final minutes. Let’s do this. Go Team USA.

North American Cross-Country Ride Times
Peter Barry & Kilrodan Abbott: 1:07pm (7:07am EST)
Kathryn Robinson & Let It Bee: 1:27pm (7:27am EST)
Clark Montgomery & Universe: 2:19pm (8:19am EST)
Hannah Sue Burnett & Harbour Pilot: 2:39pm (8:39am EST)
Lynn Symansky & Donner: 3:03pm (9:03am EST)
Michael Pollard & Mensa G: 3:23pm (9:23am EST)
Kristi Nunnink & R-Star: 3:43pm (9:43am EST)
Phillip Dutton & Mr Medicott: 4:15pm (10:15am EST)
Marilyn Little & RF Demeter: 4:27pm (10:27am EST)
Hawley Bennett-Awad & Gin & Juice: 4:31pm (10:31am EST)

Pau Links: [Website] [EN Coverage] [Live Scores] [Course Preview] [Cross Country Times] [Live Stream] [Course Map]

12:30: Willam Fox-Pitt and Neuf Des Coeurs were first out and delivered a double clear trip.

12:35: Andrew Nicholson and Viscount George retired on course because the horse apparently has an issue with keyholes and mounds. There’s only keyhole on course and multiple mounds.

12:40: We’re seeing a lot of time penalties so far, so William’s quick trip doesn’t necessarily mean the time is easy to make.

12:55: Sarah Bullimore and My Last One delivered the second double clear trip so far.

1:16: Peter Barry and Kilrodan Abbott had a refusal at fence 16 but are continuing on well.

1:18: Peter Barry fell from Kilrodan Abbott at fence 24. Both are up and OK.

1:29: Kathryn Robinson and Let It Bee had a refusal at fence 6, the duck in the first water.

1:36: The big screen in the main arena is showing Kathryn Robinson fell from Let It Bee. Not sure where on course.

2:05: Shandiss McDonald and Rockfield Grant Juan jumped clear with 42 time penalties.  That’s the first pair to make it around for Team Canada.

2:33: Clark Montgomery and Universe delivered a fantastic double clear trip as the trailblazers for Team USA!

2:41: Hannah Sue Burnett fell from Harbour Pilot early in the course at the first water jump when William slipped between fences. She’s OK. Kate confirmed the ground is very slippery there, and many horses have been sliding around.

2:43: Clark is signing autographs for young fans here in the main arena. #celebritystatus

2:54: Andrew Nicholson and Quimbo had a runout at the skinny at fence 20.

3:05: William Fox-Pitt delivered yet another double clear trip with Seacookie TSF. They will hold their lead going into the show jumping.

3:10: Hannah Sue is here in the main ring cheering on her teammates and lending a helping hand.

3:16: Another double clear for Team USA! Lynn Symansky and Donner just romped around the course in super form. Lots of hugs all around.

3:21: Lynn and Donner had the fastest trip of the day so far. They were 40 seconds up on the clock with just one jump to go.

3:22: Also interesting to note both Clark and Lynn were up enough on the clock to take the long route at the final combination and still make the time.

3:31: Michael Pollard and Mensa glanced off the skinny at fence 20b and will pick up 20 jumping there. Such a bummer as they were going so well.

3:38: Michael and Mensa came home with the one refusal and 24.8 time penalties.

3:41: R-Star protested the countdown to her start time by throwing in little rears. She looks ready to decimate the course. Kristi Nunnink and R-Star are on course now!

3:46: It looks like Kristi and R-Star missed the direct route into the water when Kristi had some steering issues. Kate is at the first water and she said it looked like Kristi re-routed to the option but then retired on course. Update: Kristi and R-Star actually received a technical elimination when she jumped the wrong C element at the option.

4:05: Lucy Wiegersma and Simon Porloe retired at the first water after failing to successfully navigate the duck option. They were sitting in sixth place overnight.

4:28: Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott come home clear with just 1 time penalty. They go into third place with about 15 horses to go.

4:39: Marilyn Little and RF Demeter came home clear with just 1.4 time penalties. That’s four clear jumping trips for Team USA.

4:44: Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice jumped clear with 13.2 time penalties. Looks like Ginny was pulling the whole way.

5:09: Lucinda Fredericks and Flying Finish had a run out at the chevron in the final water. They were the overnight leaders.

5:15: Andrew Nicholson and Mr. Cruise Control shimmied over the final corner and took the flag before galloping for home. It really doesn’t look like he made it over the fence, and I’m thinking he’ll probably get eliminated for that.

5:25: William Fox-Pitt just came home double clear with Cool Mountain — his third double clear of today. Talk about a master of cross country. He’s now in first, second and third going into the show jumping tomorrow. Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott are in fourth place, with Maxime Livio and Cathar De Gamel in fifth place. Stay tuned for much more from Pau!

David O’Connor Talks Team USA at Pau

By on Oct 25, 2013 2:55 pm -

David O’Connor was kind enough to sit down and chat after finishing the final cross-country course walk with Team USA this afternoon at Les Etoiles de Pau. The dressage has been a mixed bag for Team USA over the past two days, with two pairs scoring in the 40s and the remaining five scoring in the 50s. It would be a different matter entirely if those scores in the 50s were the best those five riders and horses could produce, but the fact of the matter is that all of them are capable of turning in mistake-free tests with scores in the mid- to low-40s. Scores in the 50s are not up to international standards. David knows that, and the riders know that.

But none of them are making excuses, and everyone is owning their mistakes, which is a critical step on the road to being competitive here in Europe. The next step starts at about noon tomorrow when Team USA sets out on a mission to deliver seven clear cross-country trips. All seven of these pairs can produce clear trips, and, as David said in the interview, clear cross-country trips are ultimately what land riders on the podium. Pierre Michelet’s course will require every ounce of mental energy our riders have to give, especially in the final minutes when some of the most challenging combinations appear. But each of these seven riders can do it. Go Team USA.

Pau Links: [Website] [EN Coverage] [Live Scores] [Course Preview] [Cross Country Times]

Marilyn Little Breaks Down Her Dressage Test at Pau

By on Oct 25, 2013 12:58 pm -

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Marilyn Little was kind enough to chat with me after walking the cross-country course this afternoon following her dressage test with RF Demeter. As Marilyn said in the interview, she lost points along the way for little things here and there, and there’s no room for error at a big four-star competition like Les Etoiles de Pau. Demi was a bit spooky about the cameraman at B, and Marilyn said she should have taken more time to help the mare adjust to that, as it ultimately negatively affected several movements. She also trusted Demi a bit too much in the extended canter, and the mare changed early, so Marilyn is understandably a bit disappointed tonight. Chin up! Many thanks to Marilyn for chatting, and best of luck tomorrow on the cross country.

Update: I forgot to add that announcer extraordinaire John Kyle and his lovely fiancé Pippa Roome, who moonlights as the eventing editor of Horse & Hound, are also here at Pau this weekend. You’ll spot John toward the end of Marilyn’s interview when he pulls off an impressive photo bomb. Well done, John. Go eventing.

Pau Links: [Website] [Live Scores] [Course Preview] [Cross-Country Start Times]

Lucinda Fredericks and Flying Finish Win the Dressage at Pau

By on Oct 25, 2013 11:30 am -

Lucinda Fredericks and Flying Finish. Photo by Jenni Autry.

With the judges cracking down on scoring today, Kate and I wondered if we’d see any scores in the 30s before the conclusion of the dressage at Les Etoiles de Pau. Lucinda Fredericks and Flying Finish scored 39.2 to just sneak into the 30s — the only pair to ultimately do so — and win the dressage with a lovely test in the final group to go today. Lucinda was second after the dressage with this horse at Luhmuhlen, and they were in fine form again today. She said in the post-dressage press conference that the horse is becoming very consistent and workmanlike in how he approaches this phase, and it’s probably about time to begin treating him as such. Kate has been dutifully recording all the top dressage tests over the past two days, so be sure to check out the video below.

William Fox-Pitt and Cool Mountain. Photo by Jenni Autry.

William Fox-Pitt finishes the dressage with all three of his mounts — Seacookie TSF, Cool Mountain and Neuf Des Coeurs — and  sitting in second, third and fourth places on scores of 41.5, 42.2 and 43.2, respectively. He had a chance to take the lead from Lucinda with Cool Mountain as the final ride of the day, but he didn’t quite get there, and he goes into the cross country in third place with that horse. William said in the press conference that he was quite pleased with Cool Mountain, and now he’s looking ahead to tomorrow, when he’ll be riding through some pain after tweaking his back last weekend at Le Lion. He’s riding at Pau under the watchful eye of Jenny Hummel, his physiologist, and he’s hoping to get through tomorrow without too much pain. You’ll hear more on his injury in the press conference video.

Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice were the final pair to go this afternoon for Team Canada, and they were one of the 23 pairs to finish inside the 40s, scoring 49.5 to sit in 22nd place overnight. Ginny can be a bit of a firecracker in the little white box, and I thought she behaved nicely today for Hawley. Marilyn Little and RF Demeter were the last pair to go this afternoon for Team USA, and they scored 51.2 to sit in 27th place overnight. They were on par for a very good score at the beginning of the test, and then the marks started dropping in the canter work. I chatted with Marilyn after her test, and she said Demi’s gaits and the quality of the work are where they need to be, but she knows there are some technical problems she still needs to address. I’ll have that interview uploaded shortly.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Team USA finishes the dressage with two riders in the 40s and the rest in the 50s — definitely a mixed bag across the board, and it’s clear we’re still not where we need to be in this phase on the international stage. Coach David O’Connor was kind enough to sit down and chat with us this afternoon about his thoughts on how Team USA performed over the past two days, as well as give some insight on how he’s coaching the riders to tackle Pierre Michelet’s cross-course course. So stay tuned for the interview with David, as well as Kate’s thoughts on the day, press conference interviews with William Fox-Pitt and Lucinda Fredericks, and an interview with Marilyn Little. And while you’re waiting, be sure to watch all of Kate’s videos below and check out all her photos on Eventing Nation’s Facebook page. Go Pau.

Pau Links: [Website] [Live Scores] [Course Preview] [Cross-Country Start Times]

The View From Kentucky Presented by World Equestrian Brands

By on Oct 25, 2013 10:00 am -

EN loves photos shot between the ears! If you happen to be out for a hack, are riding in some obscure place or just take some cool photos aboard your mount, send them to [email protected] with a quick blurb about the photo’s story. This week’s View comes to us from Britney Hensman at the Kentucky Horse Park.

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From Britney:

Here’s a view looking at the statue of Bruce Davidson at the Rolex stadium. Halo and I were hacking on the Kentucky Horse Park grounds during the Hagyard Midsouth Horse Trials. What a neat thing to be able to see while hacking at the horse park. Halo sure used it as inspiration for the weekend.

 

Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott Deliver at Pau

By on Oct 25, 2013 7:41 am -

Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Mr. Medicott ended the morning session of dressage here at Les Etoiles de Pau on a very positive note, scoring 44.2 in their test to moving into fifth place at the lunch break. With just 14 horses left to go in the dressage, it’s getting very competitive, and Phillip and Cave stayed cool under pressure to deliver the very good score Team USA has been looking for this morning. I swear I saw Phillip sneak in a fist pump when the score was announced, so I think he was quite pleased too. I’m hoping to catch him for an interview during the lunch break and will bring you that video just as soon as I can. We now have two riders in the top 10 here at Pau thanks to scores in the lower 40s, as Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot scored 45.7 for Team USA yesterday.

Lynn Symansky and Donner. Photo by Jenni Autry.

It’s been a bit of a quiet morning here at Pau, and Phillip and Cave’s test is the second best we’ve seen so far, bested only by Lucy Wiegersma and Simon Porloe, who delivered a very accurate test to move into fourth place on a score of 43.8. No one has caught our overnight leaders from yesterday, and William Fox-Pitt remains at the top of the leaderboard with Seacookie TSF on a score of 41.5. He’s also tied for second with Andrew Nicholson and Quimbo on Neuf Des Coeurs on a score of 43.2. If you watched my interview with Andrew during the press conference yesterday, you probably gathered that he’s not at all happy that he didn’t take the lead with Quimbo, so I imagine he’ll be out for blood later this afternoon with Mr. Cruise Control.

Kristi Nunnink and R Star. Photo by Jenni Autry.

In addition to Phillip, we had three other Americans ride in the morning session, with Lynn Symansky and Donner kicking things off as the third pair out, scoring 53.3. After a wonky halt to begin the test, Lynn and Donner struggled to recover, and the judges certainly weren’t feeling generous after seeing that initial bobble. If you missed my interview with Lynn after her test, be sure to check that out here. Kate and I agree that we’re seeing harsher scoring today, and there’s absolutely no room for error, which Michael Pollard discovered first hand when Mensa broke during the second extended trot. Prior to that, we were seeing a lot of 8s on the score board, and Michael and Mensa were poised to sail into the top 10. But after that mistake, the scores plummeted, leading to a score of 55.2.

Michael Pollard and Mensa. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kristi Nunnink and R-Star also faced the judges’ wrath early in their test when Rosie broke during the medium trot, and they got a bit discombobulated at the canter when she swapped behind, which affected the flying change that came shortly thereafter. Rosie is a fabulous mover, but with the judges carefully scrutinizing every moment and flying changes counting as a double coefficient movement, the overall score definitely suffered; they scored 54.5. We still have one more American left to go today, with Marilyn Little and RF Demeter set to ride their test at 2:16 p.m. (8:16 p.m. local time). And we’ll also be bringing you coverage of Canada’s final rider, Hawley Bennett-Award and Gin & Juice, who go just after Marilyn and Demi.

Pau Links: [Website] [Dressage Times] [Live Scores] [Course Preview]

VIDEO: Christopher Burton and Tempranillo

Lynn Symansky Talks Dressage at Pau with Donner

By on Oct 25, 2013 5:59 am -

Lynn Symansky and Donner. Photo by Jenni Autry.

It’s been a busy morning in the Team USA camp, as we’ve already had three Americans ride their dressage tests here at Les Etoiles de Pau. Lynn Symansky and Donner were third out this morning, scoring 53.3 to sit in 21st currently. The judges are out for blood this morning, and it’s been very difficult for the riders to claw their way back after a bobble or mistake. Donner scrambled into the halt at the beginning of the test and anticipated trotting away, and the marks never really recovered after that. The judges are also really rewarding outstanding movers, and Donner — try though he may — just can’t compete with the fancier horses. So that gives you an idea of how the judges came to that score of 53.3. I caught up with Lynn after her test, and she was overall pleased with Donner, though disappointed in that first halt and how the rest of the test was scored.

But, like Lynn said, this certainly isn’t a dressage show. We don’t call Donner the Flying Deer for nothing, and I think he’s going to play with Pierre Michelet’s cross-country course tomorrow. The general consensus among the riders is that the course starts out softer and then builds, with more difficult questions surfacing the further you get into the course. The sheer length of the course — 33 jumping efforts in all — makes it both mentally and physically grueling for both horses and riders, so it’s going to be a big test for Team USA. We’ve also had Kristi Nunnink and R-Star and Michael Pollard and Mensa go for Team USA, scoring 54.5 and 55.2, respectively. I’m trying to track them down for interviews and will bring you more on their tests during the lunch break.

Pau Links: [Website] [Dressage Times] [Live Scores] [Course Preview]

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot Set the Bar for Team USA

By on Oct 24, 2013 1:10 pm -

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Hannah Sue Burnett was kind enough to swing by the press tent after her dressage test to talk about her ride with Harbour Pilot; they scored 45.7 to tie for fifth place overnight with Andreas Dibowski and FRH Fantasia. After spending a summer working to help William feel more relaxed in the dressage arena, Hannah Sue is seeing the fruits of her labor, as she enjoyed an obedient test at Plantation Field last month and an even better test today here at Pau. Hannah Sue said William was very good in warm-up, which actually made her even more nervous, as she worried he had a few tricks up his sleeve. Thankfully, all went well in the little white box. Hannah Sue is going to be guest blogging for EN this weekend, so stay tuned for her first blog. Go Hannah Sue!

Pau Links: [Website] [Dressage Times] [Live Scores] [Course Preview] [FEI TV]

VIDEO: Hannah Sue Burnett & Harbour Pilot’s Dressage Test