EN’s Got Talent is Eventing Nation’s newest series. We hear all the time about horses at the top of the sport, but what about the next generation of equine talent? This series introduces the future superstars of the sport, interviewing riders about how they’re tackling training with these youngsters. Have you spotted a spectacular young horse at an event you think should be highlighted in this column? Tip me at [email protected].

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Jennifer and Anika on their way to winning the 4-year-old YEH West Coast Championships.

Jennifer Wooten’s story about her newest prospect began with her decision to retire her spectacular mare The Good Witch from upper-level competition. “I’d come to that conclusion at the end of last season that I wanted to retire the Witch,” Jennifer said. “I had intended on buying something that was at least going preliminary. But when the word was getting around last fall that I was thinking about retiring her, I posted something silly on Facebook that my dream horse was 16 hands, grey and a mare.”

Her friend Erin Serafini responded to the Facebook post with a link to a video of Anika, a 4-year-old Holsteiner mare who fit that description. “I thought the mare was cute, but I really hadn’t intended on getting anything that green,” Jennifer said. “Then I kind of forgot about her.” It wasn’t until Ram Tap this past February that Jennifer saw Anika there with Erin, tagging along at the event. “At that point she had been started under saddle and been jumping a bit,” Jennifer said. “I saw her and decided to sit on her just to see what I thought. When I sat on her, there was something that just made me have to have her.”

Jennifer and Anika in a schooling session.

Jennifer ended up purchasing Anika — with generous help from her grandfather and fiancé — on the exact same day that Eventing Nation posted the news of The Good Witch’s retirement. “I was sort of scratching my head and wondering what I was doing,” Jennifer said. “I had really wanted a prelim horse, and here I am buying a horse that is just coming 4. But Anika has a self confidence about her that reminded me a lot of the Witch. I have to be careful and remind myself that she is 4 because she’s so good, but at the same time she is very much a baby.”

Anika ran her first event in June at Shepherd Ranch, where she placed second in the beginner novice division. Jennifer decided to move her up to novice in July at Whidbey Island, but ran into an issue on cross-country when Anika refused to go through the water complex. “She was a little bit naughty about the water,” Jennifer said. “At the beginning I thought she was too careful to go into water, but I think it was more about the pressure and the atmosphere, and by the time I got to the water it was a bit overwhelming for her. We’ve been working through that.”

Jennifer Wooten's Anika

Jennifer’s hard work with Anika paid off. Two months later, Anika won the 4-year-old division in the Young Event Horse West Coast Championships at Twin Rivers, only the fourth event of the mare’s career. “When I walked the course, I thought it was a little challenging,” Jennifer said. “There was a trakehner and a log into water. I thought, ‘She’s going to either quit jumping over the log and get herself high-centered, or jump the log and drop a shoulder on landing and dump me into the water.” But Anika proved Jennifer wrong. “She was so brave and bold,” Jennifer said. “She had no problems and went around the course like a champ.”

Next week on EN’s Got Talent: We’ll talk more about Jennifer’s experience at the Young Event Horse West Coast Championships and what she loves about Anika. “She’s very quick to learn things, so I have to be very patient that I don’t apply too much pressure on her to make her go correctly on the aids,” Jennifer said. “She can be a bit opinionated, which I love; I loved that about the Witch. When you channel that into the right direction, they can be very competitive.”

Clayton Fredericks and Walterstown Don at Burghley. Samantha Clark photo.

Clayton Fredericks has taken the eventing community on a wild ride this year. First, he thrilled us with the news that he was setting up a U.S. base in Ocala, Fla., officially moving in over these last few weeks. Then, we started hearing rumors that Clayton had applied to be the next coach of the Canadian Eventing Team, which John wisely labeled “the worst kept secret in eventing for several months.” Equine Canada confirmed this morning that Clayton will in fact take over the job of International Technical Advisor starting on Jan. 1, 2013, when David O’Connor’s tenure ends.

He’s currently up in Toronto riding at the Royal Horse Show — already scoring street cred with the Cannucks; nicely done, Clayton — but I caught him for a few minutes on the phone this morning and was actually the person who informed him that the news was, indeed, official. I’m not entirely sure he believed me, but Clayton made it very clear that he’s thrilled. “It’s no surprise that I really wanted the job, so I’m very excited,” Clayton said. “But now the work starts. At the end of the day, we have the work to do to to get these guys on top. I’m ready for it.”

We all know the Canadian Eventing Team had a rough 2012, highlighted by a disappointing showing at the Olympics. Jessica Phoenix and Exponential were the only Canadian pair to complete at London, finishing in 22nd individually. Michele Mueller’s Amistad tore a tendon on cross country, ending the horse’s career. Hawley Bennett, Peter Barry and Rebecca Howard fell from Gin N’ Juice, Kilrodan Abbott and Riddle Master, respectively, on cross country. London cast a dark shadow over the triumph of a silver medal at the World Equestrian Games in 2010, leaving the Canadian team wondering what exactly went wrong.

While we could hem and haw all day about London, Clayton has made it clear that he’s ready to look to the future with a team that boasts an incredible amount of talent. Luckily for the Canadians, Clayton knows what it’s like to dominate on the international stage, with his team silver from the Olympics and individual silver from the WEG joining a slew of other top placings at the CCI4* level. Looking at his FEI profile page is like reading a Who’s Who of Eventing. I know success in the saddle doesn’t always translate to success as a coach, but if I were a betting woman — and I can be a bit of a poker shark — I’d go all in on Clayton.

Clayton Fredericks. Photo by Samantha Clark.

Clayton Fredericks is in the running to be named the new Canadian eventing team coach, according to a press release published this morning by the Royal Horse Show. If Clayton is tapped for the job, he’ll be taking the reins from David O’Connor, who officially becomes the U.S. Eventing Chef D’Equipe and Technical Advisor next year. “When the job was initially mentioned to me I hadn’t really thought about retiring from riding and focusing solely on coaching, but I suppose a few things fell into place,” Clayton said. “It happened that I was looking to do more coaching, plus I was already planning to open a facility in Florida. I was told by a couple of the Canadian riders about the job and said that I would be interested. So Canada gave me a call and said they’d heard that I might be interested. I said, ‘Yes, absolutely.'”

Clayton indicated that Equine Canada intends to make a decision on who will coach the team by the end of the month, so we could be learning the news any day now. “No one has made a decision yet,” Clayton said. “I believe there are quite a few strong candidates. I’m a little bit in limbo about what I’m doing, because it really depends on what happens with that job. If I get that, then I will be committed to giving them 100 percent.” Giving Equine Canada 100 percent means that Clayton will retire from competing to focus solely on coaching. This announcement comes just days after Clayton finished second in the Fair Hill CCI2* on Pigrela Des Cabanes, a horse he has been training for a South African client, with the end goal of qualifying for the World Equestrian Games.

Clayton recently moved into his new U.S. base at Oak Lane Farm in Ocala, Fla., owned by Chuck and Anne Koch, which sets him up perfectly for a role as Canadian team coach, he said. With more than 600 acres and a cross-country course in the works, Clayton plans for the farm to play host to prestigious events in the future. “The scope of things really depends on the amount of people who want to come and be involved,” Clayton said. “There’s plenty of room for people to come and base with me.” Clayton said Sinead Halpin may be joining him at Oak Lane for the winter, and Michael Pollard is considering stabling with him for the winter as well.

Clayton would bring a wealth of experience as the coach of the Canadian eventing team. A team silver medalist at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing and a member of the Australian eventing team in London this summer, Clayton’s competition history is peppered with accolades. Twice a World Cup champion — in 2005 and again in 2008 — Clayton also won an individual silver medal and team bronze medal at the World Equestrian Games in 2006. On U.S. soil, Clayton won Rolex in 2007 aboard Ben Along Time. Clayton also served as Hong Kong’s Chef d’Equipe at the 2002 Asian Games in Busan, South Korea.

Buck and Ballynoe Castle RM at the Plantation Field CIC3*. Photo by Samantha Clark.

Riders from 17 countries will ride in the CCI4* at Pau this weekend, the first stop on the HSBC FEI Classics 2012/13 calendar and one of only six four-star events in the world. We’ll see a smattering of heavy hitters, including our own Colleen Rutledge and Shiraz and Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM. While all eyes will be on Michael Jung — also known as Ze Terminator, the only rider in history to simultaneously hold the Olympic, World and European titles — the star-studded lineup means anything could happen.

[Website] [Schedule] [Entry List] [Interactive Cross-Country Course]

The HSBC FEI Classics series is comprised of the world’s six four-star events: Pau, Oct. 24-28; Adelaide, Nov. 22-25; Rolex, April 25-28; Badminton, May 3-6; Luhmuhlen, June 13-16; and Burghley, Sept. 5-8. The top five riders with the most cumulative points at the end of the HSBC FEI Classics series split $333,000 in prize money, with the top rider earning $150,000 as the series champion. This year, William Fox-Pitt took him the HSBC FEI Classics top prize, with Andrew Nicholson in second, Allison Springer in third, Michael Jung in fourth and Stuart Tinney in fifth.

Colleen and Shiraz at The Fork CIC3*. Photo by Samantha Clark.

Some notable names and their mounts competing at Pau this weekend:

Colleen Rutledge and Shiraz — Colleen and Shiraz have already made one trip across the pond this year to compete at Luhmühlen, where they placed 16th. While Colleen fell from Luke at Richland, the two bounced back at Plantation to place 25th in the CIC3*.

Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM — Buck and Ballynoe Castle RM most recently placed third in the CIC3* at Plantation Field. Other notable placings this year include sixth in Advanced at the American Eventing Championships, third in the CIC3* at Richland and fourth in the CCI3* at Jersey Fresh in May.

Michael Jung and Leopin FST — While it seems like there aren’t any titles left for Michael Jung to win, the honor of HSBC FEI Classics Series Champion still eludes him. He’ll be looking to start the series off with a bang on Leopin FST, who helped Michael to a win at Luhmühlen in June. Leopin also won the CIC3* at Fontainebleau in March.

William Fox-Pitt and Navigator/Bay My Hero/Chilly Morning — While Navigator placed 15th at Badminton and 11th at Barbury last year, we haven’t seen him out much this year. He most recently won an Advanced at Little Downham last month. Bay My Hero won the CIC3* at Tattersalls in May and placed 2nd in the CIC3* for 8- and 9-year-olds at Blenheim in June. Chilli Morning won the CIC3* at Brahmam in June.

Andrew Nicholson and Nereo/Mr. Cruise Control — Nereo is fresh off a spectacular fourth-place finish in the London Olympics, where he helped win a team bronze medal for New Zealand and just narrowly missed an individual bronze medal. This horse also ran second in the Bramham CIC3* in July. Andrew will also be riding Mr. Cruise Control at Pau, who was fifth in the Hartpury CIC3* in July and 26th at Luhmühlen in June.

Mary King and Imperial Cavalier/King’s Temptress — Mary King’s Olympic mount Imperial Cavalier is back after helping the British eventing team to a silver medal; he and Mary finished fifth individually. The horse’s other notable placings this year include 30th at the Barbury CIC3* in June and 11th at the Houghton Hall CIC3* in May. King’s Temptress last ran at Burghley, where Mary retired the horse on cross country. The two placed 21st in the CIC3* at Barbury and 22nd in the CIC3* at Houghton Hall.

Jonathan Paget and Clifton Promise — Clifton Promise also played a role in helping Jock Paget and the rest of the New Zealand eventing team to a bronze medal in London; the horse finished 10th individually. Jock and Clifton Promise also put in an impressive performance at Rolex this year, finishing sixth.

Mark Todd and Major Milestone — After withdrawing from Luhmühlen following dressage, Major Milestone finished 12th at Burghley and 16th in the CIC3* at Hartpury. This horse also ran sixth at the CIC3* at Tattersalls in May.

Christopher Burton and Underdiscussion — Christopher Burton and Underdiscussion won the Aachen CIC3* in July and most recently placed 19th in the CIC3* at Blenheim in September.

Tik Maynard and Sapphire gave new meaning to the phrase "we have lift off" yesterday.

Well, Eventing Nation, all good things must come to an end. After three full days of eating, breathing and sleeping Fair Hill, I’m trading in my boots for high heels as I attend a good friend’s wedding today. To say I’m disappointed I won’t be in Elkton to cover the conclusion of the CCI2* and CCI3* is an understatement, but I had a blast covering the event and I hope you all enjoyed the updates. I leave you in the very capable hands of Tori, who will be keeping you up-to-date on all your news from Fair Hill today. Jogs start at 8 a.m. this morning. CCI2* show jumping will be underway at 10 a.m., while CCI3* show jumping is set to start at 2 p.m., although event officials anticipate that the PRO Bareback Show Jumping Challenge might push back that time. Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot lead the CCI3*, with Jennie Brannigan and Indie on top of the leaderboard in the CCI2*.

All Things Fair Hill: [Live Scores] [Schedule] [Website] [Fair Hill’s Blog]

Yesterday’s Fair Hill Coverage:

Hannah Sue’s Fair Hill CCI3* Cross Country Report

Jennie’s Fair Hill CCI2* Cross Country Report

Derek’s Fair Hill CCI3*/2* Cross-Country Analysis

Other U.S. Events:

Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event & Team Challenge: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Ram Tap Horse Trials: [Website] [Status/Times/Results]

Paradise Farm HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

The Event at Kelly’s Ford: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Results]

Your Sunday Links:

Burnett Maintains Top Spot In Fair Hill International Three-Star

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot Fly at Fair Hill

Burnett and Brannigan Produce Faultless Rounds at Fair Hill

Headley Brittania will Take Part in Express Eventing Series

Frankel — ‘Best Racehorse in the World — Retires to Stud

Latest U.S. Thoroughbred Breeding Statistics Show Decline

Vet will Discuss West Nile Virus on NPR Radio Show Today

ASPCA Honors Boy’s Efforts in Opposing Horse Slaughter

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive sit in third in the CCI2*.

The top three riders in the Fair Hill CCI3* and CCI2* gathered for a press conference after the conclusion of cross country day. Hannah Sue Burnett and Marilyn Little were the only familiar faces from the post-dressage press conference, which goes to show just how influential Derek Di Grazia’s cross country course turned out to be. After a major leader board shakeup, the riders discussed their horses, their rides, and offered some insightful observations about themselves and the future of the sport.

Hannah Sue Burnett leads the CCI3* on Harbour Pilot on a 43. “I got to go around the two-star earlier in the day (on Danio), so I was able to get a feel for the footing,” she said. “I’ve been picking on my horses and not making time all year, so my goal was to go out, get a rhythm and not scale back on the fences. It was a little scary in spots, but Harbour Pilot answered every question I asked of him.” Hannah Sue is looked ahead to Rolex and the World Equestrian Games with Harbour Pilot, whom she said wasn’t always a top prospect for her based on his quirky personality. “As he’s gotten more confident in his job he really understands what he’s supposed to do now,” she said. “He understands each phase.”

Marilyn Little and RF Smoke in the Water sit in second on a 48.4. “I started out a little slow — and that wouldn’t have been my first pick — but David (O’Connor) said to give him time in the beginning,” she said. “It was pretty hard to make it up in the end. Going second to last meant the footing got pretty torn up. The footing was really good considering the amount of rain we had.” Marilyn thought there were tough questions throughout the course, as evidenced by problem areas like the Farmyard Corners and Sunken Road. “I thought that a lot of the horses were coming out of it quite a bit more confidently then they went into it, which is a great thing to see. Especially for us in the States trying to build horses for the future, this is a great way to leave them.”

Phillip Dutton is sitting in third in both the CCI3* and CCI2*. Fernhill Eagle came home double clear to sit on a 53.2 in the CCI3* going into show jumping tomorrow, while Fernhill Fugitive picked up two time penalties to sit on a 46.2 in the CCI2*. “They both went really well,” Phillip said. “This was Fernhill Fugitive’s second two-star, so this was good to get him more experience. He clocked around and started to get the idea of going a little bit quicker. He ended it and he wasn’t that tired.” Overall, Phillip said he was pleased with how the course rode. “I thought the two-star was a great education for the horses. The footing held up great. Fair Hill should be very proud.”

Jennie Brannigan and Indie moved up from fifth place overnight to lead the CCI2* thanks to a double clear cross country ride. She referenced her recent trip to Boekelo as an eye-opening experience that really changed the way she rode today. “In the warm up at Boekelo, Phillip (Dutton) said you need to ride it like it’s the last cross-country ride you’ll ever do,” she said. “Indie needs an aggressive ride, so I set that tone from the beginning and then let him settle.” In a very honest, humble moment, Jennie spoke about her perspective on the last few years. “Four years ago, I was young and naive and I needed to take a look at myself and my horses and evaluate where I wanted to go. I’m more motivated than ever to keep going.”

Connor Husain stole the show today with Piece of Hope. The two came home with only 0.8 time penalties to sit in second place in the CCI2*. “I purchased this horse a year ago in October. We did a few prelims and qualified for Young Riders,” Connor said. “I really wanted this to be a good end to the season. It’s turned out to be awesome so far. The course rode great. He’s a really good galloping horse. It was a little muddy, and I haven’t dealt with anything like that before. He really held my hand through it.” Everywhere I went on course today I heard people gushing about Connor; it’s clear he has quite the fan club. What’s not to like? A 19-year-old college student with a humble attitude, a great work ethic and talent to boot? It’s clear why his parents were just beaming at the press conference. They should be very proud; the rest of us certainly are.

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot went double clear to maintain their lead in the CCI3*

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot jumped double clear in cross country to maintain their lead in the Fair Hill CCI3*. Marilyn Little and RF Smoke on the Water kept their second-place position, jumping clear and coming home on 3.6 time penalties. That’s where the similarities to the overnight leaderboard end, as the course took its toll on numerous riders. Heather Gillette and Our Questionnaire, in third place after dressage, picked up 20.8 time penalties to drop to 13th. Mara DePuy and Fun Maker, in fourth place overnight, retired on course after a runout at the Farmyard Corners. Will Faudree withdrew Pawlow, who was tied for fifth, after taking a fall from DHI Colour Candy. Jan Byyny, also tied for fifth, had two runouts before retiring on course. Danielle Dichting, in seventh overnight, fell from Tops at the Sunken Road.

On the flip side, riders who jumped clear with little to no time penalties were rewarded with huge jumps up the leaderboard. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Eagle moved up from 11th to third after a double clear. Marilyn Little and RF Demeter jumped clear with four time penalties to move up to fourth. Most notably, Lainey Ashker and Anthony Patch, who sat in 20th after dressage, put in the first double clear round of the day to move all the way up to fifth place. Daniel Clasing and Houston moved up from 22nd to sixth after a double clear; Katie Ruppel and Sir Donovan moved from 17th to seventh; Lindsey Solorzano and Enchantez moved from 25th to eighth; Jan Byyny and Syd Kent moved from 15th to ninth; and Leslie Chelstrom and Cecelia moved from 18th to 10th.

Marilyn Little and RF Smoke on the Water stayed in second place in the CCI3*.

Hannah Sue and Harbour Pilot smoked the course. Interestingly, Hannah Sue has never made the time in an Advanced to date. So, of course, the first time she decided to jump double clear she made a huge statement, running 18 seconds inside the time. I asked her about how William recovered after the course, considering their blazing pace. “He recovered really well,” she said. “He can run a little hot sometimes; he came back and was dragging me around the vet box. David (O’Connor) came by and asked what time I was riding.” Marilyn Little said she started out slower than she would have liked — per David’s orders — and she couldn’t quite make up the time later in the course. That said, she was very pleased with the course and said it was a confidence builder for all the horses that were able to finish.

Unfortunately, many horses didn’t complete the course. While Will Faudree took the only fall of the day when he and DHI Colour Candy parted ways at the Springhouse Water Complex, there were eight retirements or eliminations on course. The Farmyard Corners and the Sunken Road caused the vast majority of problems, with many riders seeing runouts and refusals. Only four riders finished double clear: Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot, Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Eagle, Lainey Ashker and Anthony Patch, and Daniel Clasing and Houston. You can view scores here. Hannah Sue has a rail in hand going into tomorrow’s show jumping. The jog is scheduled for 8 a.m., with show jumping for the CCI3* horses set to begin at 1 p.m. Stay tuned for more Fair Hill photos, videos, and a detailed press report conference.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhQ3QIFft6E
Fair Hill CCI3* Cross Country Recap with Jennie Brannigan and No Objection,
Danica Moore and Utah B (X2), Emily Renfroe and Walk the Line (X2),
Alexandra Green and Fernhill Cubalawn, and Marilyn Little and RF Smoke on the Water

Photo courtesy of the Fair Hill International Blog

I’m back to give you live updates from the CCI3* cross country. The course rode well for the 2* riders this morning, so hopefully we will have a safe, exciting go here in the 3*. Don’t forget to check out my live updates from the CCI2* and my full CCI2* cross country report. Marilyn Little and RF Demeter start us off at 1:10 p.m. Your overnight leaders are Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot, Marilyn Little and RF Smoke on the Water, and Heather Gillette and Our Questionnaire.

[Live Scores][Ride Times]

1:18: Jan Byyny and Inmidair had a runout at 9b and 16. They were sitting in 5th overnight.

1:24: Will Faudree fell from DHI Colour Candy at the Springhouse Water Complex. Both are fine.

1:30: Marilyn Little checked in with Brian O’Connor and said she was very pleased with RF Demeter, who jumped clear and came home with time.

1:47: Madeline Blackman and Gordonstown retired at the Sunken Road.

1:49: Lainey Ashker and Anthony Patch are the first double clear. They came home 4 seconds inside the time.

1:53: Kelly List and Smarty Pants had a runout at the Sunken Road.

1:58: Danielle Dichting and Tops had a runout at the Farmyard Corners before she fell at the Sunken Road.

2: Lainey Ashker was looking for redemption after a less than stellar dressage test yesterday. She spoke to Brian O’Connor after her ride, saying Anthony Patch’s Thoroughbred breeding played a role in their double clear. She was pulling all the way home, she said.

2:02: Lizzie Snow and Coal Creek had a runout at the Farmyard Corners and then retired on course.

2:11: Will Faudree has withdrawn Pawlow after falling from DHI Colour Candy. Brian O’Connor alluded to the fact that Will is likely banged up after the fall. Will and Pawlow were sitting in 5th.

2:13: Doug Payne just reported that the footing is holding well on course.

2:16: Julie Wendell and Cavendish retired on course after a runout at the Farmyard Corners.

2:29: Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot finished 18 seconds inside the time to hold their lead.

2:32: Leslie Law and Zenith ISF pulled up after fence 22 and retired on course.

2:34: Selena O’Hanlan and A First Romance were eliminated at the Farmyard Corners after multiple runouts.

2:46: Ironically, Hannah Sue and Harbour Pilot have never made time in an Advanced.

2:51: Jennie Brannigan and No Objection had a refusal at the Dansko Village.

2:58: Mara DePuy and Fun Maker had a runout at the Farmyard Corners and then pulled up on course.

3:06: Danica Moore and Utah B and Buck Davidson and Mar de Amor both had runouts. Danica later retired on course.

3:30: Robert Meyerhoff and Dunlavin’s Token had a runout at the Sunken Road. That wraps it up. Stay tuned for a more detailed report.

Jennie Brannigan and Indie now lead the CCI2* after a double clear cross-country round.

We’ve just wrapped up the CCI2* cross country at Fair Hill. We had a definite leaderboard shuffle, with Jennie Brannigan and Indie taking an early lead with a double clear and hanging on to sit in first place going into tomorrow. Connor Husain and Piece of Hope had a chance to catch and tie Jennie late in the day, but .8 time penalties put them into second place. Doug Payne and Crown Talisman also had a chance to catch Jennie late in the day, but 7.2 time penalties moved them into fifth. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive picked up two time penalties to sit in third and Clayton Fredericks and Pigrela Des Cabanes hold fourth after picking up 2.8 time penalties.

Elkton was pounded with more rain storms last night, leaving very soggy conditions this morning while I walked the course. I spoke to Will Coleman — who sits in 10th with Zipp after coming home with 6.4 time — about the conditions on course. He said he wouldn’t call the course “sloppy,” but said the course definitely favors a lighter horse. That said, Will was seventh in the order of go and the course has been churned up quite a bit since then. The Fair Hill course officials are doing a great job of stomping down the divots and maintaining the footing around the fences, so we have good conditions on course as we head into the start of the CCI3* at 1:10 p.m.

Connor Husain and Piece of Hope moved up to second place.

Thankfully, there were no major accidents on course. Sally Cousins and Ideal Contini withdrew before the start. Jessica Phoenix and Erodium gave spectators a scare early on when Erodium caught his shoulder at the Spring House Water Complex. Brian O’Connor called it a “soft fall,” and both horse and rider were OK. Jan Byyny and Why Not pulled up and retired on course after the Dansko Village. Lara Borson-Knight and Shooby Doo retired on course after her third stop at the corner at 17b. Ashley MacVaugh and Fernhill Can Do retired at the Upper Chesapeake Water.

Susan Beebee and Wolf, our overnight leaders, couldn’t make the time, picking up 9.6 penalties to drop down to 8th. Danielle Dichting and The Graduate, who sat in second overnight, picked up 9.2 time penalties to sit in ninth. There were only four double clear rides: Jennie Brannigan and Indie, Marilyn Little and RF Azarah, Hannah Sue Burnett and Danio, and Clark Montgomery and Garrison Flash. If the CCI2* results are any indicator, time will definitely play a factoras we get started in the CCI3*

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAUZRCQD5s0
Will Coleman talks course conditions and walks through his ride on Zipp 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEt6wjIai90
Fair Hill CCI2* Cross Country Recap with Jennifer Simmons and Lestaire,
Boyd Martin and Crackerjack, Liz Riley and It’s the Truth, Molly Rosin and Sabrina,
Jessica Phoenix and Patras VR (X2), and Susan Beebee and Uptown Higgins. 

Photo courtesy of the Fair Hill International Blog

Good morning from Fair Hill! We have beautiful sunny skies this morning for cross-country day. Hopefully the sunshine will dry up the ground enough to prevent any major slippery conditions. I’ll be updating this post throughout the day with updates from my phone. Then I’ll be checking in at lunchtime with a more detailed report. Sally Cousins and Ideal Contini withdrew before the start. Darrah Alexander and South Park will lead off in the CCI2* at 9:30 a.m. Kick on!

[Live Scores][Cross Country Times]

9:40: Jessica Phoenix and Erodium fell at the Springhouse Water Complex. Horse and rider are OK.  Jan Byyny and Why Not pulled up after the Dansko Village and have retired on course.

9:50: Marilyn Little and RF Azarah are the first double clear of the morning. Jennie Brannigan and Indie followed as the second double clear.

10: Robin Walker and Freedoms Light just had a refusal at the Sunken Road. Caroline Martin and Petite Flower had a runout at the Dansko Village.

10:18: Hannah Sue Burnette and Danio are our third double clear.

10:25: Susan Beebee and Wolf jumped clear but came home with 9.6 time penalties. That drops them to 2nd.

10:55: Lara Borson-Knight and Shooby Doo retired on course after multiple refusals.

11:02: Buck Davidson and No More Rocks picked up a stop at the Haunted House.

11:13: Ashley MacVaugh and Fernhill Can Do retired at fence 7.

11:31: Boyd Martin and Crackerjack jumped clear but picked up 1.6 time. Jennie Brannigan and Indie are still holding the lead.

11:38: Mary Macklin and Mahogany Beauteo had a runout at 11.

12:05: Connor Husain and Piece of Hope are on course now. If they go double clear they will tie Jennie for first.

12:19: Connor picked up .8 time to move into 2nd.

12:21: Doug and Crown Talisman are on course now. A clear round here moves them into first.

12: 30 Doug picks up 7.2 time to move into 5th. Stay tuned for a full lunchtime report of the CCI2*.

Katie Murphy and Esccord RGS, left, won the Young Event Horse 4-year-old division. Kim Severson and Cooley Cross Border, right, won the 5-year-old Young Event Horse division.

It was survival of the fittest in the jumping portion of today’s USEA Spalding Labs East Coast Young Event Horse Championships. The rain was already falling when Danielle Dichting and Last Diplomat started out on course in the 5-year-old division. By the time Julie Richards and Parc Cooley, third on the order of go, were set to start, we were getting pounded with heavy rain storms. After the hour-long rain delay, the Young Event Horses resumed — still battling the rain. At the end of the competition, Kim and Jackie Severson’s Cooley Cross Border won the 5-year-old division and Katie Murphy’s Escoord RGS triumphed in the 4-year-old division.

Kim Severson said the main reason she decided to get involved in the Young Event Horse series was to give a hat tip to Richard Sheane, who bred Cooley Cross Border and Cooley Streetwise, who competed in the 4-year-old division. “He picks out exquisite horse and does a wonderful job once he has them,” Kim said. She spoke of trouble spots she anticipated on the course, as well as the decision by USEA officials to alter the course. “I thought today rode really well,” Kim said. “I had a couple of concerns about the course yesterday. I thought it was a great decision to remove the trakehner. I was worried about the table going in the water, but it didn’t cause any major problems. Although I had concerns yesterday, it was fine today, so what do I know?” she joked.

EN's Got Talent superstars Doug Payne and Lysander accept their ribbon in the YEH 5-year-old division.

Cross is aiming for the first preliminary event of his career at the Virginia Horse Trials next month. “We have a little bit of a mini issue to sort out, then he’ll go preliminary all next year,” Kim said. “I’ve got things to work on this winter, as everyone does. I would like to do a long format, perhaps in the spring. He doesn’t have the fitness base that Thoroughbreds do, so it’s something that would probably benefit him.” This horse has now won his last three events. If the USEA’s goal with the Young Event Horse program is to scout out and reward the sport’s up-and-coming talent, I’d say they’ve accomplished that in spades.

Katie spoke highly of Garth’s breeding; the horse is a Hanoverian with excellent jumping and dressage lines, she said. “Toward the end of the season he has started to gain more confidence and started really looking to the fences,” Katie said. “He was good in dressage; he got a little bit hot and tight in his back. Down the centerline he gave a scoot. He really was quite exceptional. This is by far the biggest environment he’s been exposed to.” While Katie has participated in the Future Event Horse series, this was her first year of involvement in the Young Event Horse series. “It’s a great way to supplement their education — particularly in such a big environment like this — but it’s a smaller scale for them performance wise,” Katie said. She plans to move Garth up to training level next year.

Pedro Gutierrez, a judge for both the Young Event Horse East and West Coast Championships, compared the two different events. “Overall, the quality of the horses is about the same. The number of horses (entered in the series) is higher on East Coast,” Pedro said. “Over here, I will say you see more eventing-type horses. On the West Coast, you see too much of a warmblood-type of horse.” When it comes to awarding each horse a jumping score, Pedro said it can be difficult to accurately assess all aspects of the horse in a single number. “I can tell you that it is very tough to really separate the good jumpers from the good gallopers,” especially with the show jumping and cross-country portions running back-to-back. He indicated that the Young Event Horse committee will evaluate the program and discuss potential tweaks at the upcoming USEA convention.

Final scores in the Young Event Horse East Coast Championships

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot lead the CCI3* dressage.

We survived the downpours to make it through the dressage for the Fair Hill CCI3*/2*. The top three riders in each division — Hannah Sue Burnett, Marilyn Little and Heather Gillette in the CCI3* and Susan Beebee, Danielle Dichting and Doug Payne in the CCI2* — talked about their performances in dressage and their expectations for tomorrow during the end-of-day press conference. I also caught up with Marilyn Little and Susan Beebee for video interviews, where both offered more in depth analysis on their rides.

“I was actually quite nervous today,” Hannah Sue said at the press conference. “We’ve had a bumpy year trying to figure out all three phases. I really wanted to bring it home this weekend, so I was feeling a lot of pressure. That came through in my warmup; I got tense, so William got tense.” But Hannah Sue indicated that William is a showman and takes it all in stride: “When he’s in the little white box he does his job. We did have a couple of little bobbles. Our halts were not good today — probably because I was tense. Our first change was a bit exuberant, but the rest of the test is quite good. His medium and extended trots have gotten much better. He used to trot like a little pony, but now he really throws his legs out there.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXh6pmmZjFE
I caught up with Marilyn Little after her test on RF Smoke on the Water.
Brian O’Connor also wanted to get in on the interview, as you’ll hear.

On riding Derek Di Grazia’s cross-country course tomorrow: “I love Derek’s courses; I’ve always loved them. I ran his course at Stuart in the 2* and I loved the flow. He uses the terrain so brilliantly. At Rolex in 2011 he designed a really beautiful course; I love the forwardness of it. I think the course here really does prepare you for the next level.” Marilyn agreed that riding Derek’s course will be valuable experience for Rolex next year, as Derek will be designing the course there for 2013. “Some of the elements here are the predecessors of what you see at Rolex,” she said, alluding to the coffin combination and triple brush.

On RF Smoke in the Water’s dressage test, Marilyn said that the horse is quite good for his age at only 7. “Even though he’s young, he’s really an old soul,” Marilyn said. “He’s one of those horses that just gets it. He wakes up in the morning and knows his job.” She talked about developing their partnership at the Winter Equestrian Festival last winter, where Marilyn helped Smoke hone his show jumping skills. “His weak phase is show jumping, whereas that’s my strong phase. His strong phase is dressage, whereas that’s my weak phase,” Marilyn said.

Heather is thrilled to be sitting in third place after taking most of the summer off; she’s very happy to be back in action. “We had stupid, freak little injuries that set us back; that’s why our flatwork got so good,” she joked. “I’ve just been getting him back up for the fall. Hopefully the partnership we have will carry us through tomorrow.” After walking the cross-country course yesterday, Heather thought the ground was a bit unforgiving, so she was grateful to see the rain today. “The footing feels pretty good now; it’s not as wet as it was last year,” Heather said. “The jumps have been set on course to avoid the really deep slop.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qsok6uHWCF4
Susan Beebee talks about Wolf’s performance in the dressage and going cross country tomorrow. 

 When asked about his thoughts on the course conditions, Doug Payne wisely pointed out that it’s not nearly as bad as 2009. Doug, who sits in third in the CCI2*, is glad to be back on top with Crown Talisman after a nasty injury sidelined them last year. “He had an injury at Pine Top a year and a half ago where he ripped a ligament off his stifle,” Doug said. “He was in great shape at Millbrook, but then he ended up with a wicked heal grab, so this is his first run since Millbrook. He’s very brave and talented; I’m looking forward to tomorrow.”

Susan Beebee held on to her lead in the CCI2* dressage with Wolf. “I’m relieved to still be here,” Susan said. “I’m happy to be able to get a shot at going through the ABC element in the ring this  year, since I added the C element last year and got a technical 20.” She noted that she’s grateful to be here with two wonderful horses to ride; her second horse, Uptown Higgins, is currently in 36th in the CCI2*. Cross country has been delayed by one hour to give the course a chance to dry. We’ll resume action at Fair Hill at 9:30 a.m. tomorrow morning with the CCI2*. Your scores after dressage are here.

Marilyn Little and RF Smoke on the Water couldn't catch Hannah Sue Burnett and Cold Harbour, but they put in the best test of the final group in the CCI3*.

Marilyn Little and RF Smoke on the Water put in a spectacular test, but couldn’t catch mid-afternoon leaders Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot in the CCI3* dressage at Fair Hill. Hannah Sue leads with a 43, while Marilyn is hot on her heels with a 44.8. Heather Gillette and Our Questionnaire, our mid-morning leaders, continue to hold third on a 48.6. I’ll run you through the final rides in the CCI3* today and will be back later with interviews and analysis from the top three riders in the CCI3* and CCI2*.

Mara DePuy and Fun Maker were first in the ring for the fourth and final set of riders in the CCI3*. Fun Maker was a bit exuberant in the changes, but was very solid otherwise for a score of 49.6. The two provisionally sit in fourth. Will Faudree and Pawlow were next, putting in a very solid test for a 49.8, which ties them with Jan Byyny and Inmidair for fifth place. Buck Davidson and Mar de Amor had some bobbles, breaking to the canter during trot work, but it was otherwise a lovely test for a 49.8.

Utah B was a little fussy in the canter work for Danica Moore, tossing his head. The horse also bucked in the first change, finishing on a score of 59.8. Emily Renfroe and Walk the Line also broke to the canter during trot work, in addition to missing on both changes. She gave the horse a big pat after the test; the two are on a 62. Lindsey Solorzano and Enchantez were next. The horse spooked before going into the ring, but settled nicely. There was a slight bobble on the first change, and the horse missed behind on the second change, for a score of 61.8.

Marilyn and Smoke on the Water were nearly flawless. She indicated while speaking to me after the test that this is Smoke’s strongest phase and her weakest phase, so together they form a great partnership. Marilyn and Smoke scored 44.8 to move into second. Last to go in the CCI3* were Robert Meyerhoff and Dunlavin’s Token. The canter was four-beaty throughout the test; the two also picked up the wrong canter lead after the halt and reinback. Stay tuned for much more from the CCI3*, including videos of the top tests and a video interview with Marilyn Little.

While I wasn’t able to keep up with the CCI2* tests — as the rings were running concurrently and I was chained to the CCI3* — I did catch up with Susan Beebee for a video interview and have plenty of analysis to bring you from the press conference. At the conclusion of CCI2* dressage, Susan Beebee and Wolf held their lead from yesterday on a 40.8. Danielle Dichting and The Graduate remain in second on a 41.4. Doug Payne and Crown Talisman moved into third place on a 41.7. Again, stay tuned for videos of the tests and photo galleries. Current scores are here.

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1ouTgM5ih8
Marilyn Little and RF Smoke on the Water 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EyS4pYMo8As
Will Faudree and Pawlow 

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot now lead the CCI3* dressage.

Hannah Sue Burnett made a big statement this afternoon, earning a 43 with Harbour Pilot to rocket into first place by more than five points in the CCI3* dressage at Fair Hill. Heather Gillette and Our Questionnaire now sit in second place on a 48.6 and Jan Byyny and Inmidair have been bumped to third on a 49.8. Light rain continues to fall on and off, making spectacting difficult for the many people who have flocked to Fair Hill. But we press on.

Hannah Sue was first into the ring for the third of four groups of riders in the CCI3*. It was really a lovely test, with Harbour Pilot looking a little argumentative at times, but still remaining very obedient. Leslie Law and Zenith ISF were next in the order of go. The horse was sticky on the first change and had a bit of a moose moment, but the second change looked much better, for a score of 51.8 to move into sixth place. Sally Cousins struggled to keep hold of Tsunami III. The mare was full of herself and Sally rode like a pro, particularly in keeping the counter canter. Sally had to really put on the breaks coming down the center line for the final salute, but she hung on for a 61.

A First Romance came into the ring looking very lathered, with Selena O’Hanlon fighting to keep the lid on throughout the test. The horse bucked in the canter circle and was clearly feeling good. Their geometry was a little off in the canter serpentine; the two scored a 63. Phillip Dutton really had to work to get the changes on Fernhill Flutter, but he powered through for a score of  53.2 to sit in eighth provisionally. Holly Payne and Madeline were next in the ring. The two has a small miscommunication in the serpentines, when Madeline broke to the trot. The mare also stumbled coming out of the extended canter, finishing for a score of 63.2

Jennie Brannigan had a test she’d like to forget with No Objection. The horse broke to the canter numerous times during the trot work and when it finally came time to canter, he picked up the wrong lead. Her grimace at the end of the test said it all; their sitting on a 66.6 — ironic score, anyone? Jan Byyny and Syd Kent performed a very obedient test for a 56.2. We’re now heading into the fourth and final group. Keep up with the live scores here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFUTrQxHE0c
Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot 

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npjiaYYYrYk
Jan Byyny and Syd Kent 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KWEvOXkq1U
Leslie Law and Zenith ISF 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg75BS_BdAc
Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Eagle 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S15GL2QEFbk
Sally Cousins and Tsunami III 

Heather Gillette and Our Questionnaire are your lunchtime Fair Hill CCI3* dressage leaders.

After an hour-long rain delay, we’re finally halfway through the CCI3* dressage at Fair Hill. Heather Gillette and Our Questionnaire snuck by Jan Byyny and Inmidair to take the lead on a 48.6. We have quite a few heavy hitters coming up after lunch, so there’s a good chance we’ll see a scoreboard shuffle. The skies have cleared and we actually have some sunshine, so the weather is looking up. If you missed my morning update, be sure to check in for my analysis of the first rides in the CCI3* here.

Madeline Blackman and Gordonstown led off after the first break, performing an obedient test with no major bobbles for a 64.6. Leslie Chelstrom and Cecelia were next, showing off a really lovely extended trot. The horse seemed eager and obedient through the first half of the test, but had a stick lead change and was fussy in the canter serpentine for a 59.2. Kelly List and Smarty Pants rode an obedient test, if a bit tense, for a 53.6. The horse kindly saved a spook until after finishing the test. Danielle Dichting continued her impressive showing this weekend with Tops, earning a 50.2 to sit in third provisionally.

Coal Creek looked a little wild-eyed for Lizzie Snow, breaking to the canter during the trot work for a 56. Sara Kozumplik struggled with Tatton Winter, who spooked while circling the ring. The two had a little disagreement in the canter serpentine and then missed badly on the second change. Heather Gillette and Our Questionnaire was next for a 48.6. The horse had a very cute moment when he put his head down to scratch his leg during the salute at the beginning of the test. The two had a very solid, obedient test; the changes in particular were flawless.

Daniel Clasing struggled with Houston, who was tense throughout the test for a 61. The horse threw his head during the first change, but had a lovely second change. Daniel really didn’t go for it in the extended canter, not that I blame him. They’ll feel more at home tomorrow. Julie Wendell and Cavendish were the last to go before the delayed lunch break, scoring 76.4. The two had hairy moments throughout the test, when the horse bolted during the first change and then changed during the canter serpentine.

In the CCI2* dressage, Susan Beebee and Wolf continue to hold the lead and the top seven placings from yesterday remain unchanged. The highest score of the day thus far goes to EN’s Got Talent superstars Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights on a 46.4. There are 12 riders left to go in the CCI2* after the break, including Susan Beebee on her second ride Uptown Higgins, Doug Payne and Crown Talisman, and Clark Montgomery and Garrison Flash.

I’ll be adding a photo gallery and videos to this post during the lunch break. Be sure to keep up with your CCI3* and CCI2* live scores here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsCTLPoVLqA
Danielle Dichting and Tops 

Jan Bynny and Inmidair currently lead the CCI3* dressage.

We’re finally underway in the CCI3* dressage at Fair Hill. The rain stopped during the first set of morning tests — although it’s picked back up again as I type this. We’re pressing on and hoping for the best. Jan Bynny and Inmidair currently lead on a 49.8. Marilyn Little and Demeter were first up, trotting into the ring, instead of entering at the canter, picking up an error right off the bat. But she recovered to ride a nice test. Demeter was a little fussy in the rein back, but overall very obedient for a score of 52.6

Jan and Inmidair were next in the ring. It was clear Inmidair already has his mind on cross country tomorrow, but Jan really kept him focused. He looked very keen and the test was rather exuberant in spots. Jan struggled to hang on in the extended canter and was visibly relieved at the salute, earning a 49.8. As Buck Davidson passed her while circling the ring, Jan quipped, “Not bad. I’m still on.” Inmidair will be in his element tomorrow.

Buck Davidson and Park Trader rode a very nice test. The horse was up but obedient for a 54. Buck gave him big pats both before and after the test. Will Faudree and DHI Colour Candy were perhaps a touch quiet, but the test was obedient and the changes in particular were lovely for a 60.4.

Sir Donovan is a personal favorite of mine, so I really enjoyed watching him go with Katie Ruppel. His ears were flicking back during the entire test as he carefully listened to Katie. He seemed very relaxed and happy for a 58.8. Megan O’Donoghue struggled to keep Pirate in check. The Thoroughbred gelding gave a little half-buck in the first change, but was better in the second change. Megan kept a tight rein on him in the extended canter, earning a 62.4.

Kristin Schmolze and Ballylaffin Bracken looked lovely together for a 51.6. This horse really tries his heart out and seems to love his job. He’s really a fantastic, floaty mover. Lainey Ashker and Anthony Patch struggled during their test. Anthony Patch was spooky while circling the ring and didn’t settle once the test was underway. She fought to keep him under control the whole way for a score of 60.2.

Stay tuned for much more from the CCI3* dressage and keep up with the live scores here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBHQdOmLEK0
Marilyn Little and RF Demeter 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0anWwmFhUHA
Buck Davidson and Park Trader 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyppB-SrIkI
Kristin Schmolze and Ballylaffin Bracken 

Event officials called a rain delay right as Julie Richards and Parc Cooley were finishing their familiarization with the water complex in the 5-Year-Old YEH East Coast Championships.

Despite forecasts for sunshine at Fair Hill, the skies have opened up and we’re currently experiencing a torrential downpour complete with thunder and lightning. It wouldn’t be Fair Hill without nasty weather, right? Two horses ran in the jumping portion of the 5-Year-Old Young Event Horse Championships before officials called a delay, just as Julie Richards and Parc Cooley were about to start their ride. We’re now under a rain delay, as event officials are anticipating the storm will take about an hour to pass. New ride times: Laura VanderVliet will ride the CCI3* test ride at 9:55 a.m.; Marilyn Little will kick off the CCI3* dressage with RF Demeter at 10:15 a.m.; YEH will resume at 10 a.m. with Julie Richards and Parc Cooley. Stay tuned for more updates.

Update: Laura VanderVliet is warming up now to start the test ride at the new 9:55 a.m. time, despite continued heavy rains. The Young Event Horses are set to resume at 10 a.m. As of 10:10 a.m., course officials have pushed the start for cross country tomorrow to 9:30 a.m. Stay dry out there, everyone!

Kim Severson and Cooley Cross Border

Dressage for the USEA Young Event Horse East Coast Championships ran simultaneously with the CCI2*, meaning I wasn’t able to watch as many rides as I would’ve liked. But the rides I did see made me very excited about the future of U.S. eventing. We have some truly lovely young horses competing this weekend, led by Kim and Jackie Severson’s Cooley Cross Border. The Irish Sporthorse gelding is narrowly holding the lead in the 5-year-old division with a 27.16 dressage score and 12.78 conformation score for a total of 39.94. Kim was very pleased with how he went today: “He was very good — relaxed and easy going,” she said.

Kelli Temple’s two rides are tied for second in the 5-year-old division. Chesney, a Holsteiner gelding, scored 28 on his dressage test and 11.4 in conformation for a total of 39.4. “He’s only done two events — one novice and one training,” Kelli said. “He was just imported from Germany in July, so he doesn’t have as much education. But he has a fantastic temperament and this was his best dressage test to date.” Scirocco, also a Holsteiner gelding, was first up in the order of go. “He can be a very spooky horse, but he was very workmanlike in the ring today,” Kelli said, noting the horse only started jumping in January.

Kerry Torrey sits in fourth in the 5-year-old division with The Stig, a Dutch gelding that was brought over from Holland in December by Matt Flynn. “He was overwhelmed by the atmosphere,” Kerry said. “That’s a long ring for a spooky horse.” All the riders spoke of the value the Young Event Horse program brings to U.S. eventing, particularly when it comes to exposing horses to larger events. “I like to support the program,” Kelli said. “It’s a great learning experience for the horses. In two to three years, we want to be here in a two- or three-star with them, so I like to showcase them before they get to that level.”

There is no live scoring for the YEH, so please enjoy these iPhone photos.

Matt Flynn and Chopard

Molly Rosin and The Diesel Boy

Julie Richards and Fernhill Fluster

Kelli Temple and Scirroco

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Gc8EZpuGcg
Doug Payne and Lysander 

Danielle Dichting and The Graduate

Susan Beebee and Wolf lead the dressage with a 40.8 at the conclusion of Day 1 at Fair Hill International Horse Trials. After 30 horses completed the dressage, Danielle Dichting and The Graduate sit in 2nd on 41.4 and Clayton Fredericks and Pigrela Des Cabanes hold third on a 43.6. The windy conditions definitely played a factor today, with horses looking visibly tense and spooky. Riders who were able to channel their horses’ energy were rewarded, as evidenced by Susan’s classy ride.

Wolf lead after the dressage at the CCI2* last year at Fair Hill, and Susan was very pleased to be back in the same position at the conclusion of Day 1. “He’s really learning to carry himself,” Susan said, noting his walk work was “a little dicey” today. For Danielle, The Graduate is still a fairly new ride; he’s also the only horse she hasn’t personally brought through the levels. “He came out feeling great,” Danielle said. “The wind definitely pushed him up.” Clayton is riding Pigrela Des Cabanes on behalf of owner Holly Cochran — who is studying at the University of South Africa — and indicated his goal is to get the horse ready for the World Equestrian Games.

Susan, Danielle and Clayton all spoke highly of the quality of the event at Fair Hill. “I’ve been here for consecutive years since 2008. The terrain is always fantastic and the course here has great questions,” Susan said. This is Clayton’s first trip to Fair Hill, and he also praised the course, which he walked earlier today. “I thought it was beautifully presented and up to a high international standard,” he said. Clayton noted that the course is a demanding track and is confident that his horse is up to the challenge physically.

Sally Cousins and Ideal Contini

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive

Nora Battig and Steppin' Out

Momo Laframboise and Dejavu

Buck Davidson and No More Rocks

Melissa Hunsberger and Starstruck

Elinor MacPhail and RF Eloquence

Abbie Golden and Arundel

Lara Borson-Knight and Shooby Do

Candace Kircher and Catalina

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V62dSM2zpZc
Sally Cousins and Ideal Contini 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EB8DgC4q-WI
Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFUGjQigXAg
Abbie Golden and Arundel 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xF5SLajFFQ
Clayton Fredericks and Pigrela Des Cabanes 

EN’s Got Talent is Eventing Nation’s newest series. We hear all the time about horses at the top of the sport, but what about the next generation of equine talent? This series introduces the future superstars of the sport, interviewing riders about how they’re tackling training with these youngsters. Have you spotted a spectacular young horse at an event you think should be highlighted in this column? Tip me at [email protected].

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Elisa and Corteo on cross country at Poplar Place. Photo by Aly Ratazzi of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Last week we met Corteo, Elisa Wallace’s newest upper-level prospect, owned by Rosemarie Spillane. As I’ve previously stated, this horse has an incredible jump. It’s so much fun to watch him go in this video from Poplar Place, and I personally can’t wait to see him in person. That stadium round was telling for Elisa, as it showed her that Corteo has that “it” factor she loves to see. “In the stadium round from Poplar, an orangutan came out a little when I was trying to woah down the lines and steer,” Elisa said. “There was a bending line in six strides to a two-stride combination. I thought, ‘Well, I can’t really add coming to that oxer, so we’re going to take the flyer to the combination.’ When it comes to the makings of a good event horse, I’ve found if you don’t get in right, they can shuffle and get out of the way with that fifth leg. That’s when I realized that he has the potential to go really far.”

While Elisa is working on making Corteo more adjustable in his stride, she’s thrilled that he seems to genuinely love his job. “He loves everything on cross country,” Elisa said. “He’s great over ditches and loves to drop into water. The first time he dropped into water he did it like a pro. We’ve popped over some training-level questions and half coffins; he didn’t care. My biggest issue is reeling in the stride a little and doing my homework of grid work. You can’t always take that Superman jump.” But Elisa knows that Superman jump will only play to Corteo’s advantage as he progresses through the levels. “He’s a baby, so I just need to take the time to help him learn,” Elisa said. “It’s getting to where these days you have to have the dressage horse, the cross-country horse and the stadium horse. I think he’s one that can put all three together.”

Elisa and Corteo in stadium at Poplar Place. Photo by Aly Ratazzi of Rather Be Riding Photography.

While reining in the Superman jump has been challenging, flatwork has presented an even greater training question for Elisa. “With babies, you have some that are above the bit and some that hide; he hides,” Elisa said. “Sometimes it feels like I’m riding an eight-legged orangutan on a headless horse with tons of suspension. It feels like his legs are going every which way and I can’t steer. So I’m really focusing on our flatwork and getting him to come into my hand.” Corteo still had his wolf teeth when Elisa brought him home, which only compounded his hiding problem. “He became very defensive against the bit,” Elisa said. “The dressage judges nail me because he gets behind the vertical. It’s so much easier to bring their head down than to have one who doesn’t want to connect once they’ve learned to disappear behind the vertical.”

Elisa plans to spend a lot of time with her dressage trainer, Karen McGolderick, over the winter to work through Corteo’s issues on the flat. “His dressage scores are OK,” Elisa said. “He’s in the low 30s right now, but he has all the ingredients for putting in top scores and being competitive in all three phases. That’s what is so exciting. You don’t come across many youngsters like him.” Despite his orangutan tendencies, Elisa loves Corteo’s heart and good brain. “You can hop on him bareback and ride him to the barn,” Elisa said. “He’s great at horse shows. He doesn’t act like a baby who hasn’t been anywhere. He doesn’t get too worried; if he does he’ll just stick his head up in the air and come back down. He takes things in stride.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VxYupeVBEo
Elisa and Corteo go cross country at Poplar Place 

Since Corteo is still so young, Elisa plans to bring him along slowly and let him mature properly. “I’ll do the rest of fall in novice, and probably the spring too,” Elisa said. “Then I’ll move him up to training next fall when he’s 6. I have to stay patient and make sure I don’t get greedy or eager. I want him to last and hopefully go to Rolex and beyond. In novice it felt like I was riding around an Advanced course. Riding him is hard work trying to stay on, and once I’m done with my ride it feels like I just went to the gym for a work out.” It’s clear Corteo is an up-and-coming superstar, and Elisa indicated that a syndicate is likely in Corteo’s future. “The owner is interested in putting together a syndicate for the horse,” Elisa said. “Syndicates are fantastic ideas that really benefit horses, owners and riders; it just helps give them some relief and support.”

Next week on EN’s Got Talent: Jennifer Wooten’s upper-level horse The Good Witch retired from international competition earlier this year, but Jennifer’s future is looking bright thanks to her newest prospect. Anika, a lovely grey Holsteiner mare owned by Jennifer, won the 4-year-old USEA Young Event Horse West Coast Championships at the Twin Rivers Fall Horse Trials last month. We’ll get to know Anika and find out why Jennifer believes this mare has what it takes to make it to the top. Many thanks to EN reader Char Eurick for the tip!

Indie looking very proud of himself while Jennie wipes her nose, which is exactly what I've been doing all morning. It's a breezy day!

We’re underway in the CCI2* here at Fair Hill. CCI2* dressage and the Young Event Horse Championships are running concurrently in parallel rings, making for a busy warm-up area. We’ve had 16 horses go so far in dressage in the CCI2*. Susan Beebee and Wolf set the bar high with a 40.8 to take the lead. Jennie Brannigan and Indie looked fantastic in their test and are holding second on a 43.9. Will Coleman and Zipp are sitting in third on a 45.8; always the showman, Will tipped his top hat to the crowd after finishing his test.

There’s definitely tension in the air at the fall’s premier event. When Darrah Alexander, first to go, passed me after finishing her ride on South Park, she breathed a giant sigh of relief and said, “Thank God that’s over.” David O’Connor was keeping a close eye on the action this morning. I spotted him talking shop with Boyd Martin early on in the order of go while I was eavesdropping walking by. The morning tests thus far have been lovely; it’s clear the CCI2* riders are really bringing their A-game.

We have some heavy hitters going after the break, with Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive leading off. Still to come this afternoon are Clayton Fredericks and Pigrela Des Cabanes, Buck Davidson and No More Rocks and Sally Cousins and Ideal Contini. Stay tuned for much more from Fair Hill. You can access the live scores here.

USEA twitter posted a photo of the Young Event Horse 5 y/o results.  Kim Severson leads with Cooley Cross Border.

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Boyd Martin and David O'Connor talking shop during the CCI2* morning dressage tests.

Jessica Phoenix and Erodium

Marilyn Little and RF Azarah looked stunning.

Buck Davidson and D.A. Adirmo

Will Coleman gave Zipp a big pat after finishing his test.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PG7jNR_v7aM
Jennie Brannigan and Indie 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P71lW2RddQk
Marilyn Little and RF Azarah 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30Ci8RlLbF8
Jan Bynny and Why Not

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StjkBcbY-lU
Buck Davidson and D.A. Adirmo 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QxQwtgkHg8
Will Coleman and Zipp 

Boyd Martin and Ying Yang Yo won the CCI3* at Fair Hill last year. Who will claim top honors this year?

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It’s here: the fall’s premier U.S. event. The Fair Hill International Horse Trials start with jogs on Wednesday and run through Sunday. Kate already posted a great roundup of all things Fair Hill. I’ll be on the ground providing live coverage of the CCI3* starting Thursday. Without further ado, here’s a look at every single horse-and-rider combination entered in the CCI3* at Fair Hill. Who are you going to be keeping your eye on this week?

Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch — Lainey and Anthony Patch are coming off a slew of fantastic placings in recent events: 3rd in the Area II Advanced Championships at Morven Park, 2nd in Advanced at the AECs and 2nd in Advanced at Millbrook, just to name a few.

Madeline Blackman and Gordonstown — While Madeline and Gordonstown were eliminated on cross-country while running Advanced at Plantation, the pair finished a solid 9th in Intermediate at Fair Hill in August. Their crowning achievement this year was a 24th-place finish at Rolex.

Jennie Brannigan and Walkabout/No Objection — After an injury at MCTA last year took Walkabout out of contention, Jennie has slowly been bringing Walkabout back this year, finishing 14th in the CIC3* at Richland and 31st in the CIC3* at Plantation. No Objection has had a fantastic year, finishing 9th in his first CIC3* at Richland and 18th in the CIC3* at Plantation.

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot — Hannah and Harbour Pilot are coming off several solid performances this summer, including 9th in the CIC3* at Bromont, 5th in Advanced at Richland, 3rd in Advanced at the AECs, and a win in Advanced at Morven Park.

Jennie Brannigan and Walkabout at Richland.

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Jan Bynny and Inmidair/Syd Kent — Jan and Inmidair have had a solid season, running 14th in the CIC3* at Bromont, 5th in the CIC3* at Richland and 12th in the CIC3* at Plantation Field. Syd Kent returned to competition this year after a two-year hiatus, most recently finishing 10th in the CIC3* at Plantation.

Leslie Chelstrom and Cecelia — Leslie and Cecilia finished 8th in the CIC3* at Jersey Fresh and most recently ran 19th in the CIC3* at Richland and 21st in the CIC3* at Plantation Field.

Daniel Clasing and Houston — Daniel and Houston ran 16th in the CIC3* at Jersey Fresh. The pair put in a solid performance at Richland to finish 3rd in Advanced and most recently placed 20th in the CIC3* at Plantation.

Sarah Cousins and Tsunami III — Tsunami will run her first three-star of the year at Fair Hill. She and Sally most recently finished 9th Advanced at the AECs and 2nd in Advanced at Plantation Field.

Buck Davidson and Park Trader/Mar de Amor — Fair Hill will be Park Trader’s second three-star of the year; he and Buck finished 17th in the CIC3* at Richland. Mar de Amor will run his first three-star of the year; he and Buck most recently finished 2nd in Advanced at Richland and 3rd in Advanced at Plantation.

Jan Bynny and Inmidair at the Fork.

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Mara DePuy and Fun Maker — Mara and Fun Maker will run their second three-star of the year at Fair Hill. The pair most recently finished 22nd in Advanced at Plantation Field.

Danielle Dichting and Tops — Danielle and Tops will look to complete their first three-star of the year after an unfortunate fall on cross country at Bromont. The pair most recently placed 6th in Advanced at Richland and 10th in Advanced at the AECs.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Eagle — Phillip and Fernhill Eagle finished 12th at Rolex this year and have had a very solid season. Most recently, the two finished 4th in the CIC3* at Richland and 9th in the CIC3* at Plantation.

Will Faudree and DHI Colour Candy/Pawlow — After retiring on course at the Fork and a fall at Jersey Fresh, Will and DHI Colour Candy were ready for some better luck in three-stars. After finishing 17th in the CIC3* at Plantation, it appears their season is looking up. Pawlow has had a rockstar season, finishing 3rd in the CIC3* at Jersey Fresh, 4th in the CIC3* at Bromont and winning the CIC3* at Plantation Field.

Clayton Fredericks and Walterstown Don — Clayton and Walterstown Don scared BurghleyTV viewers half to death after a terrifying fall at Cottesmore Leap. Luckily, both Clayton and the horse were unhurt. Eventing Nation is excited to watch this lovely gelding go on American soil!

Clayton Fredericks and Walterstown Don at Burghley.

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Elissa Gibbs and Medici — Elissa and Medici have looked solid this year, placing 8th in the CCI3* at Bromont. While the pair withdrew from the CIC3* at Richland, they recently finished 5th in Intermediate at Poplar Place and will look for a good showing at Fair Hill.

Heather Gillette and Our Questionnaire — Heather and Our Questionnaire ran their only CIC3* of the year at the Fork, where they finished 41st. After taking the summer off, the two most recently ran Intermediate at the Area II Championships at Morven Park, finishing 8th.

Alexandra Green and Fernhill Cubalawn — Alexandra and Fernhill will run the second three-star of their career together at Fair Hill. The pair most recently finished 18th in the CCI2* at Bromont, 10th in the CIC2* at Richland and 2nd in the CIC3* at Poplar Place.

Rachel Jurgens and Ziggy — Rachel and Ziggy ran the CIC3* at the Event at Rebecca Farm, finishing 7th in a competitive field. The pair are coming off a solid second-place finish in the Intermediate at Middleburg last month.

Kevin Keane and Fernhill Flutter — EN’s favorite vet and Fernhill Flutter most recently ran the CIC3* at Plantation, finishing 32nd. The pair also had a very strong showing at Bromont, placing 3rd in the CIC3*.

Sara Kozumplik and Tatton Winter at Richland.

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Sara Kozumplik and Tatton Winter — Sara and Tatton Winter ran 3rd in the CIC2* at Stuart, which set them up for a debut in the first three-star of their partnership at Richland. The two finished 20th there and also completed the CIC3* at Plantation to finish in 30th.

Leslie Law and Zenith ISF — Leslie and Zenith ISF had a very strong showing in a competitive CIC3* field at the Fork, finishing 14th. The pair also traveled to Bromont to tackle the CCI3*, where they placed 10th.

Kelly List and Smarty Pants — Kelly and Smarty Pants ran the first three-star of their career together at Bromont, where they finished 10th in the CIC3*. The two are most recently coming off a 16th finish in Advanced at Plantation.

Marilyn Little-Meredith and RF Demeter/RF Rovano Rex/RF Smoke on the Water — Marilyn did not present RF Demeter at Bromont, so the horse’s most recent outing was Rolex, where she placed 9th. RF Rovano Rex was most recently eliminated on cross country at Blenheim and will look to make a comeback at Fair Hill. Marilyn retired RF Smoke on the Water on course at Blenheim, but previously had a solid run at Aston-Le-Walls in July, finishing 4th in the Advanced.

Boyd Martin and Trading Aces — Boyd and Trading Aces have had a bang-up year, finishing 4th in the CIC3* at Jersey Fresh, 2nd in the CCI3* at Bromont, 8th in the CIC3* at both Richland and Plantation, and 2nd in the Area II Advanced Championships at Morven Park.

Boyd Martin and Trading Aces at Plantation Field.

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Danica Moore and Utah B — Danica and Utah B finished 31st in the CIC3* at the Fork, 6th in the CIC3* at Bromont and most recently ran 12th in the CIC3* at Richland.

Karen O’Connor and Veronica/Mandiba — Unfortunately, we won’t be seeing Karen, Veronica or Mandiba at Fair Hill, as Karen will be resting at home while recovering from a burst T4 fracture and a T5 compression fracture sustained in her fall from Veronica at Morven.

Meghan O’Donoghue and Pirate — While Megan took a tumble off Pirate in the CIC3* at the Fork, the pair came back to finish a solid 7th in the CIC3* at Jersey Fresh. The two are coming off a 15th-place finish in the CIC3* at Richland and 14th in the CIC3* at Plantation.

Selena O’Hanlon and A First Romance — Selena and A First Romance started off their season strong with a 14th-place finish in the CIC3* at Red Hills. Their only other run since then came at Richland, where they finished 9th in Advanced.

Holly Payne and Madeline — Holly and Madeline were eliminated on cross country at Rolex, but they came back to win the CIC2* at Stuart. The pair most recently finished 7th in both the CIC3* at Richland and Advanced at the AECs. The two won the Area II Advanced Championships at Morven Park earlier this month.

Holly Payne and Madeline at Richland.

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Michael Pollard and Schoensgreen Hanni — After scratching from Jersey Fresh and retiring on course at Bromont, Michael and Schoensgreen Hanni have been making a comeback. The two won the Advanced division at Richland and most recently finished 4th in the Advanced Championship at the AECs.

Emily Renfroe and Walk the Line — Emily and Walk the Line placed 38th in the CIC3* at the Fork and most recently won the CIC3* at Poplar Place.

Katie Ruppel and Sir Donovan — Katie and Sir Donovan ran 19th in the CIC3* at Red Hills and finished 12th in the CIC3* at the Fork. While a fall on course kept them from finishing Rolex, the pair looked strong with a 10th-place finish in the CIC3* at Richland.

Kristin Schmolze and Ballylaffin Bracken — Kristin and Ballyaffin Bracken have had a very strong season, finishing 36th in the CIC3* at the Fork and 4th in the CIC3* earlier this year at Fair Hill.  The two ran 6th in the CCI3* at Bromont and most recently placed 4th in the Area II Advanced Championships at Morven Park.

Lizzie Snow and Coal Creek — Lizzie and Coal Creek are coming off a 2nd-place finish in the CCI2* NAJYRC. They most recently ran 13th in the CIC3* at Plantation.

Lindsey Solorzano and Enchantez — Lindsey and Enchantez ran the first three-star of their career together at Fair Hill earlier this year, where they finished 6th. The two most recently finished 4th in Advanced at Polar Place.

Julia Wendell and Cavendish — Julie and Cavendish were 7th in the CIC3* at Fair Hill earlier this year. They finished 12th in the CCI3* at Bromont and 20th in the Advanced at the AECs. After a fall in the CIC3* at Plantation, Julie will be looking to make a comeback.

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Have you noticed the gaping hole at the top of the Eventing Nation Facebook page? We have too. That’s why we’re launching the EN Facebook Cover Photo Contest, giving our graphically inclined followers a chance to show off their skills. One lucky winner will earn street cred and the honor of being the designer of our first ever Facebook cover photo. And the best part? We’re leaving it up to you — the dedicated readers — to choose the winner. We’ll upload all the contest submissions to Facebook and let you vote by “liking” your favorite cover photo. To sweeten the deal, the three cover photos with the most “likes” will all receive an Eventing Nation T-shirt. Go graphic design!

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Prizes: 1. Street cred      2. EN T-shirts for the designers of the top three cover photos

Dimensions: All cover photos must be 851 pixels wide by 315 pixels tall

To appease the chinchillas: Incorporate the EN mantra — “Red on right. White on left. Insanity in the middle.”

Voting: All cover photos will be uploaded to Facebook. Readers will vote by “liking” their favorite cover photo.

Deadline: All cover photos must be submitted to [email protected] by Friday, Nov. 2

Questions? Email [email protected]