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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

2019 International Eventing Forum Will Emphasize ‘Better’ Education

By on Jan 5, 2019 5:43 pm -

Charlie Unwin speaking at the 2017 IEF. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The countdown is on for the 2019 International Eventing Forum (IEF), which will take place on Feb. 4, 2019, at Hartpury College in Gloucestershire, England. Since its inception in 2004, the IEF has grown  into a top pre-season educational event in the UK that consistently brings together an all-star lineup of top equine professionals.

This year’s IEF theme of “Better — Not More Education” will address the concept that not all training is created equal: “Training can only be of value if pupils are in a receptive place and educators understand what is of value to teach. So often pupils think that just because they are there and attend training, things get better! Training and trainers so often go through the motions with little perception that they are in fact making things worse, because they are confusing the message.”

The talented dressage duo of Adam Kemp and Matt Frost, who founded AM Dressage in 2009, will kick off the IEF with their session “Simple Still Works.” British Eventing Team performance manager Dickie Waygood will then speak on “Direct Riding.”

Following the lunch break, international course designer Tom Holden will team up with former show jumping world champion Dermott Lennon for “The Jumping Test” and “The Solution” in the feature afternoon session.

Tickets cost £55 at the door and £40 for groups of more than 20. Click here to book tickets.

EN’s UK correspondent Tilly Berendt and guest columnist William Micklem have covered the IEF for EN for the past two years. Be sure to revisit their coverage for a bit of light winter reading:

2017:

Dismantling Limits: Dispatches from the 2018 International Eventing Forum, Part I

Building the Right Foundation: Dispatches from the International Eventing Forum, Part II

Blueprints for Success: Dispatches from the 2018 International Eventing Forum, Part III

2016:

Christoph Hess on Working with the ‘Not So Good’ Dressage Horse

Fittening the Event Horse a Hot Topic at International Eventing Forum

Indoor Cross Country Preparation with Andrew Nicholson

Sneak Peek: Course Taking Shape for $50,000 Aiken Eventing Showcase

By on Jan 5, 2019 3:27 pm -

The Banksia Bank will serve as one of 20 jumps on the cross country course for the $50,000 LiftMaster Invitational. Photo courtesy of Bruce’s Field.

Eric Bull and his team have been hard at work building the cross country course for the $50,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Invitational, presented by LiftMaster, which will serve as the inaugural eventing showcase at Bruce’s Field on March 1-2, 2019, in Aiken, South Carolina.

Invitations will be extended to the top 40 riders in the world to compete in a two-day competition featuring a morning of dressage and an evening of show jumping on March 1, followed by an afternoon of cross country on March 2.

Capt. Mark Phillips designed a 2,500-meter cross country course that will include 20 jumping efforts, all of which will have Aiken-themed names and serve as a tribute to the iconic equestrian community. Click here for a sneak peek at the fences, which have names like the Carolina Bay water complex, the Banksia Bank, The Willcox table, the Hitchcock Woods Fox Squirrel and St. Mary’s Church.

The Carolina Bay water complex is taking shape. Photo courtesy of Bruce’s Field.

When the late Bruce Duchossois purchased the land that would become Bruce’s Field in 2000, he had a vision to grow it into South Carolina’s premier equestrian facility while also maintaining its historic character and paying forward the spirit of generosity.

The Aiken Horse Park Foundation announced yesterday that the showcase will also serve as a Ride for Charity, with the riders representing local non-profit organizations. During the Thursday evening welcome party, each rider will be partnered with a charity. The winning rider will receive $2,500, with second place receiving $1,500 and third place receiving $1,000 — all of which will go to the corresponding charities. Local charities can apply to participate here.

“Because of the late Bruce Duchossois’ support of my career and the ensuing success of Aiken’s eventing community, I am particularly honored to recognize Bruce’s legacy through the creation of what will be an annual highlight to Aiken’s equestrian season,” Phillip Dutton said.

“The eventing showcase format provides a unique experience for both horse and rider while allowing spectators a close and personal perspective.”

Boyd Martin, the three-time undefeated winner of the Wellington Eventing Showcase, has also announced his intent to compete, and we are expecting an all-star entry list. The weekend will also serve as a fun-filled event for the community, with a beer fest featuring local craft beer and other activities for the whole family.

If you can’t make it to Aiken to watch the inaugural eventing showcase in person, EQTV Network will also be streaming all the action live.

A slew of sponsorship opportunities are available, including sponsorship of the one-of-a-kind cross country jumps being built for the showcase. Click here to view sponsorship opportunities and contact Tara Bostwick at [email protected] for more information.

[Aiken Eventing Showcase]

6 Comics Only Horse People Will Understand

By on Jan 5, 2019 11:39 am -

Let’s be honest — in a sport as humbling as eventing, having the ability to laugh at ourselves is practically a prerequisite for participation. That’s why we love Australian eventer Maryanne Wallace’s comic series called Horse on the Run, which captures all the highs and lows of horse ownership and competing.

Click here to browse through her extensive list of comics — here are six only horse people will understand.

Follow Horse on the Run on Facebook to keep up with all of Maryanne’s latest comics.

Year in Review: The EN Stories You Loved the Most in 2018

By on Dec 31, 2018 11:30 am -

As you would expect with the most-read eventing news source on the internet, heavy-hitting headlines lead the way when we tabulate which stories on EN received the most views in 2018. But as we look through the posts that captured the most clicks this year, it’s worth taking a deeper dive to remember the stories that made us laugh and cry, inspired us, and ultimately made us fall even more head-over-heels in love with the sport.

Amidst the more than 7 million page views EN received in 2018, our coverage of the FEI World Equestrian Games dominated the list of most-viewed posts. EN’s coverage of the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event followed closely behind Tryon, with our coverage of the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials hot on Kentucky’s heels.

It’s no secret that controversial stories dominated eventing headlines this year. Cases of visible blood  and excessive whip use on cross country clocked in as the #2 and #10 most-read stories on EN this year. Those incidents ultimately spurred the FEI to introduce new rule changes that will take effect in 2019. (While we have your attention, be sure to brush up on the new rules.)

On a lighter note, celebrating April Fool’s Day is a time-honored tradition here at EN, so we were delighted to see our bogus story about the FEI unanimously voting to ban dogs from all competitions ranking as the #6 most-read story of the year.

While contentious headlines will always garner clicks by nature, one of EN’s driving missions is to celebrate the positive in the sport, especially tales of triumph in the face of adversity. The clicks on stories about Jonty Evans’s fall at Tattersalls and subsequent recovery from a traumatic brain injury rivaled our major event coverage. The outpouring of love and support for Jonty this year truly showcased the eventing community at its best.

With that concept in mind, here are a few of EN’s most-read stories of 2018 that might not have ranked in the top 10 but are very much worthy of revisiting.

On Being a Girl: An Eventer Goes Dress Shopping: We laughed until we cried while reading Rachel Skirvin’s opus about shopping for a bridesmaid’s dress her friend’s wedding. This snippet in particular had us in stitches: “What looks good on a 5’ Midwestern sausage with man shoulders and a slowly fading farmers tan? Nothing.”

The Last Ride: Cat Hill’s post about the decision to place her horse on stall rest following an injury — all the while knowing she might never be able to ride him again — so aptly captures the raw emotion of making that agonizing call. “If I’ve had my last ride on him, I will not mourn for more. I already got more than I could have ever hoped for. But I wish I had known. I wish I had been able to say goodbye to that chapter.”

As Inmidair Retires, Jan Byyny Reflects on Her Horse of a Lifetime: From aiding her recovery from a life-changing accident to becoming the U.S. National CCI3* Champion, Jan Byyny tells JR’s emotional story with touching candor: “We never know what’s going to happen in our lives, but I’m so thankful for everything he has done for me. It was JR who gave me my life back.”

This ‘ISO Horse to Lease’ Is Honesty at Its Most Hilarious: “Seriously though, we’re not interested in your 6yo, 1.5m horse that you want to lease out for $10k a year. I wish … but not right now. I need school-master, broke to death, has maintenance issues, ugly as sin, out of shape, you really don’t care about money but want him to have a great home. Oh, and not across the continental US from GA because I only do a 6 hour radius due to sweet tea.”

6 Times the WEG Vendor Village Made George Morris Die, Just So He Could Roll Over in His Grave: When I saw Leslie Wylie’s proposed headline for this post before we published it, I nervously asked her to change it for fear of backlash from readers. She told me to trust that y’all would love it, and she was 100% right. This illustrated guide to blingy boots, browbands and helmets that George would most definitely not approve of landed a spot in EN’s top 20 most-read posts of 2018.

Robin Godel’s Save of the Day at WEG: We saw some spectacular saves and valiant recovery efforts on cross country day at the FEI World Equestrian Games, but Switzerland’s Robin Godel defied gravity in making this save — with help from his horse Grandeur de Lully CH.

What were your other favorites stories of 2018, EN? Let us know in the comments below.

Thank you for trusting EN as your go-to news source. We are humbled by your support and vow to continue covering the sport with the utmost dedication, integrity and insanity in 2019 and beyond.

Happy New Year! Go Eventing.

Friday News & Notes from SmartPak

By on Dec 28, 2018 12:01 am -

When the hounds are the same size as the pony! Photo by Hazel Hilland.

Well this is just about the cutest thing we’ve ever seen. Daisy Murphy, the 2-year-old daughter of Irish Olympian Joseph Murphy and his wife, Jill, absolutely stole the show with her wee pony, Pepsi, on Boxing Day with the Co Down Hounds in Northern Ireland. It’s safe to say the next generation of American eventers has met their match!

If you’ve not yet ridden in one of Joseph’s clinics, you’re seriously missing out. He’s returning to the States to teach a cross country clinic on Jan. 13-15, 2019, at Liz Halliday-Sharp’s phenomenal facility, Horsepower Equestrian, in Ocala, Florida. You can sign up on Event Clinics.

National Holiday: National Chocolate Candy Day (Editor’s Note: Isn’t this every day?)

Your Friday News & Notes:

GET EXCITED! The 2019 U.S. eventing season starts in only 16 DAYS. Be sure to get your entries in for the Stable View Aiken Opener H.T. and Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks. And while you’re at it, join me in spending an inordinate amount of time pouring over the 2019 omnibus on the new USEA website. [2019 USEA Omnibus]

On that note, the trot up at Badminton is 125 days away. Event director Hugh Thomas wrote a meaty update in his Christmas blog with details on the latest site visit from course designer Mike Winter, course adviser Capt. Mark Phillips and FEI technical delegate Marcin Konarski. [A Festive Post from Hugh Thomas]

‘Tis the season once again to celebrate eventers who made us proud to be eventers in 2018. The EN staff members are busy compiling a list of eventers who inspired us this year, but we want to hear from you, too. Email your nominations to [email protected].

Let’s get to know the Middle Tennessee Pony Club Horse Trials. The event runs once a year at Percy Warner Park in Nashville on the first weekend in October. It is the oldest continuously running recognized horse trials in the U.S. [USEA Events A-Z: Middle Tennessee Pony Club Horse Trials]

SmartPak’s annual winter clearance event has arrived. Shop hundreds of new items in the clearance section — horse supplies, tack and riding apparel — at discounts of up to 50% off. [SmartPak Winter Clearance]

Friday Video: More Daisy and Pepsi … because seriously this is too much! #adorbs

 

View this post on Instagram

 

First day out at Boxing Day Meet.❤️❤️#firstlove#nextgeneratin

A post shared by Joseph Murphy (@j_murphy_eventing) on

Maxime Livio to Headline 2019 USEA Educational Symposium

By on Dec 26, 2018 11:16 am -

Maxime Livio and Qalao Des Mers at Kentucky 2017. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

French team rider Maxime Livio will headline the 2019 USEA Educational Symposium on Feb. 18-21, 2019, at Grand Oaks in Weirsdale, Florida. The USEA Instructors’ Certification Program (ICP), Future Event Horse (FEH) Program and Young Event Horse (YEH) Program will all offer training and education over the course of a jam-packed four days.

Maxime hardly needs an introduction to EN readers, having finished second to Michael Jung at Kentucky in 2017 and won team bronze at the 2018 World Equestrian Games in Tryon. (If you need a little refresher on what we love about Maxime, we’ll just leave this link right here.)

The ICP Symposium will take place on Monday, Feb. 18 and Tuesday, Feb. 19, with Maxime teaching dressage lessons on Monday and show jumping and cross country lessons on Tuesday. The USEA is looking for demo riders at Training to Advanced level for both ICP days. Email Lauren Gash at [email protected] if you are interested in applying to be a demo rider.

Auditors are welcome to watch the lessons on one or both days of the ICP Symposium. One-day tickets cost $35 for ICP Certified Instructors, FEH/YEH participants and USEF licensed officials; $50 for the general public; and $15 for children 12 and under. Two-day tickets cost $60 for all ICP Certified Instructors, FEH/YEH participants and USEF Licensed Officials; $90 for the general public; and $25 for children 12 and under.

Click here to register for the ICP Symposium.

The YEH Symposium — “From Five Years to Five Stars: Identifying the Star Quality” — will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 20, with Maxime evaluating 5-year-olds and their suitability as future five-star horses based on their conformation, movement, behavior, rideability and trainability.

The YEH symposium will start in a classroom setting in the morning to discuss and watch videos of what top international horses looked like as 5-year-olds. In the afternoon, Maxime will assess each demo horse. Demo horses will be ridden by their designated riders, and might also be selected for Maxime to ride.

The USEA is looking for quality horses ranging from 4 to 6 years old to serve as demo horses for the YEH Symposium. Contact Kate Lokey at [email protected] if you are interested.

USEA members can attend the YEH Symposium for $30, and non-members can attend for $40. Two-day tickets to attend both the YEH Symposium and FEH Symposium cost $55 for USEA members and $70 for non-members. Click here to register and purchase tickets.

Click here to register and purchase tickets for the YEH Symposium.

The FEH Symposium will take place on Thursday, Feb. 21 with a focus on hands-on assessment of young eventing prospects. Holly Simenson will lead the morning session on conformation for FEH judges, breeders and competitors. A breeder for more than 30 years, Holly is a conformation specialist and the only approved U.S. inspector of young horses for the Oldenburg Verband.

German show jumping rider Matthias Hollberg will lead the afternoon session on free jumping, studying the canter, and quality of jump and scope. He has multiple wins on the Grand Prix circuit and is well known for his prowess in producing quality young horses.

Robin Walker and Peter Gray, who judged at the 2018 FEH Championships, will also offer commentary during the FEH Symposium.

Young horses ranging from yearlings to 4-year-olds are needed as demo horses for the FEH Symposium. Please contact Kate Lokey at [email protected] if you are interested.

USEA members can attend the YEH Symposium for $30, and non-members can attend for $40. Two-day tickets to attend both the YEH Symposium and FEH Symposium cost $55 for USEA members and $70 for non-members.

Click here to register and purchase tickets for the FEH Symposium.

Christmas Eve News & Notes from Fleeceworks

By on Dec 24, 2018 12:01 am -

All eventers who made the trek to MetroStage in Alexandra, Virginia, to see announcer extraordinaire Brian O’Connor reprise his role as The Chairman in Christmas at The Old Bull & Bush have been treated to an evening of festive frivolity. I saw the matinee on Saturday with many familiar faces in the crowd, and the show absolutely lived up to the hype. As you would expect, the eventers were definitely the rowdy bunch — cheering, laughing and singing off key with gusto. It was a fantastic way to get into the Christmas spirit!

If you are spending the holidays anywhere close to the Northern Virginia area, I highly recommend seeing the show, which runs through Sunday, Dec. 30. Show times are 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday; 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday; and 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday. EN readers can take advantage of a discounted friends and family ticket rate of $35. Call the MetroStage box office at 703-548-9044 and click here for more information.

Your Christmas Eve News & Notes:

SmartPak’s annual winter clearance event has arrived! Shop hundreds of new items in the clearance section — horse supplies, tack and riding apparel — at discounts of up to 50% off. [SmartPak Winter Clearance]

Skijoring at Rebecca Farm has been rescheduled to the weekend of March 2-3, 2019, due to the lack of snow on the ground and in the forecast for the coming week. The event was originally scheduled for Dec. 29 and 30. [Rebecca Farm Skijoring]

Don’t forget to cast your vote for U.S. National CCI3* Champion Chatwin in the semifinal polls for 2018 EquiRatings Horse of the Year. The polls are open until Wednesday, Dec. 26. [Vote for Chatwin]

The Retired Racehorse Project needs your help to reach its 2018 fundraising goal. All donations up to $25,000 are being matched by RRP board member Carolyn Karlson. RRP’s goal is to raise a total of $50,000 to fund 2019 programs. [Donate to RRP]

A Belgian study found that using straw for bedding and feeding dry hay can contribute to inflammatory airway disease in sport horses. Positive fungal cultures were obtained in 55% of the 731 horses used in the study. [Belgian Study Results]

The Only ‘Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy’ You Need to Watch This Christmas

By on Dec 23, 2018 3:00 pm -

Turn your sound on! This video of Carl Hester and Uthopia and Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro splashing through the rain while performing a pas de deux to Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Both Uthopia and Valegro competed on the British gold medal dressage team at the 2012 London Olympics and continue to look fabulous in their retirement.

For any British readers who might like to see Valegro up close and personal this week, he will be at the Liverpool International Horse Show on Friday, Dec. 28 to meet his fans. Tickets are available here.

VOTE! Chatwin Announced as Wildcard for EquiRatings Horse of the Year

By on Dec 22, 2018 8:00 am -

Frankie Thieriot Stutes and Chatwin. Photo by Shelby Allen.

PLOT TWIST! After Phillip Dutton and Z were defeated in Round 1 of voting for 2018 EquiRatings Horse of the Year, we thought America’s chances of repeating a victory were over. But Diarm Byrne, co-founder of EquiRatings and a loose cannon, decided to mix things up and introduce a wildcard in the semi-final round.

U.S. National CCI3* Champions Frankie Thieriot-Stutes and Chatwin will now take on World Champions Ros Canter and Allstar B in the next round of voting. As for how Chatwin got the nod as wildcard, the 10-year-old Oldenburg owned by The Chatwin Group was the only horse in the world to win two CCI events at the CCI3* or CCI4* level in 2018.

To put that into perspective, out of 1,208 results recorded at the CCI3* and CCI4* levels around the world in 2018, we saw 42 winners. Frankie and Chatwin were the only pair to win twice, tasting victory at both the Rebecca Farm CCI3* and the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International CCI3*. This was also Frankie’s first season competing back at the CCI3* level since 2010.

Frankie is an adult amateur rider who only competes one horse. She runs two businesses in Athletux, a sports marking company, and Frankie Cameron, a handbag and diaper company. She is also the mom of two boys under the age of 3.

If you believe in #GIRLPOWER …

If you believe amateurs have a place in the sport …

If you want to support one of the hardest-working and most dedicated riders in U.S. eventing …

VOTE FRANKIE AND CHATWIN!

To cast your vote, simply click on their photo in the poll below.

Voting closes at 1:15 p.m. PST/4:15 p.m. EST on Wednesday, Dec. 26.

Go Amateurs! Go Eventing.

US Equestrian Announces 2019 Eventing Training Lists

By on Dec 21, 2018 4:15 pm -

Photo via Wikimedia Commons

Hot off the presses! US Equestrian has just released the 2019 eventing training lists, which are structured following the new U.S. Eventing Pathway Program. Spearheaded by U.S. Eventing Performance Director Erik Duvander, the program is designed to create a “culture of competitiveness” and provide a more clearly defined pathway for U.S. event riders.

The program restructured the training lists into Elite, Development Pre-Elite and Development Potential groups, and also includes the Emerging Athlete training lists. Click here to read more about the U.S. Eventing Pathway Program.

These lists were approved by an ad hoc croup of the USEF Eventing Sport Committee on Erik’s recommendation, along with input from his Performance Advisory Team. The team is made up of Erik Duvander; Leslie Law, leader of the Development Potential and U25 Program; Ian Stark, European-based eventing expert; Karen O’Connor, U.S.-based eventing expert; Derek di Grazia, universal eventing expert; and Bobby Costello, Chairman of Selectors (pending approval of the USEF Board of Directors).

The Elite Program seeks to support athlete and horse combinations demonstrating the ability to contribute to medal-winning potential at the World Championship level, measured against world-leading performances and looking to compete at the next Olympic or World Championship.

2019 Elite Training List:

Phillip Dutton (West Grove, Pa.) and Z, Thomas Tierney, Simon Roosevelt, Suzanne Lacy, Caroline Moran, and Ann Jones’s 10-year-old Zangersheide gelding

Lynn Symansky (Middleburg, Va.) and Donner, The Donner Syndicate, LLC’s 15-year-old Thoroughbred gelding

The Development Pre-Elite Program aims to identify and support athlete and horse combinations that have the perceived potential to meet Elite status within the next two to four years, with the target of competing on a championship team in the next four to six years.

2019 Development Pre-Elite Training List:

Liz Halliday-Sharp (Ocala, Fla.) and Deniro Z, The Deniro Syndicate and Ocala Horse Properties’ 10-year-old KWPN gelding

Caroline Martin (Miami Beach, Fla.) and Islandwood Captain Jack, her and Sherrie Martin’s nine-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding

Boyd Martin (Cochranville, Pa.) and Long Island T, Long Island T Syndicate’s 12-year-old Oldenburg/Thoroughbred gelding

Doug Payne (Aiken, S.C.) and Getaway, Lisa Wall’s 11-year-old Oldenburg gelding

Tamie Smith (Murrieta, Calif.) and Fleeceworks Royal, Judith McSwain’s nine-year-old Holsteiner mare

Lynn Symansky and RF Cool Play, The Donner Syndicate, LLC’s 10-year-old German Sporthorse gelding

Lynn Symansky and Under Suspection, Mary Ann Ghadban’s 14-year-old Holsteiner mare

Frankie Thieriot Stutes (Occidental, Calif.) and Chatwin, The Chatwin Group’s 10-year-old Oldenburg gelding

The Development Potential Program looks to focus athletes on education aimed at equipping them with the necessary tools and skills to have the perceived talent to reach Elite status in the next four to eight years, with the goal of Pre-Elite targets by the age of 30.

2019 Developing Potential Training List:

Maya Black (Clinton, Wash.)

Jenny Caras (Cartersville, Ga.)

Katherine Coleman (New Orleans, La.)

Hallie Coon (Ocala, Fla.)

Sydney Elliott (Bossier City, La.)

Ariel Grald (Vass, N.C.)

Alex O’Neal (Reddick, Fla.)

The Emerging Athlete Eventing 18 and Eventing 25 Program participants were announced earlier this month. Jenny Caras and Hallie Coon have been removed from the Eventing 25 Program and moved to the 2019 Developing Potential Training List.

[US Equestrian Announces 2019 Eventing Training Lists for New Eventing Pathway Program]

 

Jonty Evans Continuing His Recovery: ‘It’s One Day at a Time’

By on Dec 21, 2018 1:31 pm -

Jonty Evans continues to make steady progress in his recovery from a traumatic brain injury sustained in a fall from Cooley Rorkes Drift at Tattersalls International Horse Trials on June 3, 2018. After spending six weeks in a coma, Jonty awoke to overwhelming support from the eventing family. He speaks candidly about his recovery in this fantastic video interview:

  • “The challenges you face when you are getting better are normal. As each hurdle is overcome, you doubt yourself, and it sounds odds. Physically you’re getting closer, but mentally you feel further away because you realize exactly how much there is to do, and that can be really tough.”
  • “Art (Cooley Rorkes Drift) coming home to me meant I was one step closer to things being normal again. Him being at home just meant a huge amount. To see his face over the door and to see his head in the yard at feed time is just really special.”
  • “When I came out of the coma, some time later my mother and sister tried to express how much support there had been. I didn’t believe them. When you come out of the coma and into the real world, it’s very difficult to comprehend that level of exposure or support.”

Whether Jonty will return to riding and competing remains a question, but Jonty said he wants to be the one who ultimately makes that decision: “I would like above everything most of all for me to make the choice. That’s important to me — that I decide if I event again, I decide which tracks I do, I make the choice. At the moment, it’s one day at a time.”

The Ultimate Christmas Gift: A Dressage Lesson on Valegro

By on Dec 21, 2018 11:54 am -

When Carl Hester is your godfather, Christmas presents come in the form of dressage lessons on double Olympic champion Valegro. This video of Ruby Hughes, daughter of international dressage riders Gareth and Rebecca Hughes, riding Valegro will absolutely put you in the Christmas spirit.

“Christmas really is about giving,” Carl said. “I was so happy to give my 11-year-old goddaughter Ruby an early birthday gift of a lesson on the one and only Valegro.”

“Blueberry” retired from competition in 2016 and at 16 years old still remains in regular work. It’s wonderful to see one of the greatest dressage horses of all time looking so spritely and happy in teaching the next generation.

Be sure to follow Carl Hester on Instagram for more photos of Valegro enjoying his retirement. What a special horse indeed!

8 Things You Need to Know About USEF’s SafeSport Training

By on Dec 19, 2018 2:30 pm -

The deadline for all USEF members to complete their online SafeSport training is fast approaching on Jan. 1, 2019. I completed my SafeSport training last week and am checking in with a handy list of tips for those of you who still need to check this important box on your year-end to-do list.

Why should you complete your SafeSport training as soon as possible? Because you will be ineligible to participate in USEF activities, including competitions, if you don’t.

8 Things You Need to Know About USEF’S SafeSport Training

1. There are THREE SafeSport training modules that you must complete: Sexual Misconduct Awareness Education, Mandatory Reporting, and Emotional and Physical Misconduct. You will receive a certificate of completion each time you complete a module, but you must complete all three to officially complete your SafeSport Training.

2. There is one exception to the Jan. 1, 2019 deadline. If you renewed your USEF membership or joined USEF on or after Dec. 1, 2018, then you will have a 30-day grace period to complete the SafeSport training.

Those who do not complete the training within the grace period will be ineligible to participate in USEF activities, including competitions. Points accrued at horse shows during the 30-day grace period will still count, but if you don’t complete your training within the 30 days, you will be ineligible to compete and points will not count until you have completed the training.

3. Event organizers and secretaries will have access to a combined Suspension and Ineligibility List for SafeSport to determine who has not yet competed their training and therefore cannot compete.

If you appear on the Ineligibility List but complete the training on the first day of an event, you can present a copy of the SafeSport Trained certificate to the show office to prove you are eligible to compete. If you present your certificate after the first day of the event, you can still compete but your points will not be counted.

4. The SafeSport training was developed based on the four requirements of the Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act of 2017:

  • mandatory reporting of sexual misconduct involving a minor
  • establishing reasonable procedures to limit one-on-one interactions between adults and minors
  • provide training to all adult members with regular contact with minors
  • prohibiting retaliation

The USEF Safe Sport Policy and U.S. Center for SafeSport Code were designed to protecting all participants in equestrian sports. USEF clarified that the organization “stands behind these policies to protect the athletes of equestrian sport, not just because a law requires it, but because every member has a responsibility to protect those who have chosen horses as their passion.”

5. In response to whether requiring SafeSport training infringes on the civil rights of members, USEF responded that the “the jurisdiction is no broader than it’s ever been in the past and no one’s civil rights are removed.

“US Equestrian is committed to creating and maintaining and educating and informing an equestrian community free of all forms of emotional, physical, and sexual misconduct. Protecting athletes and fostering an environment where existing participants and newcomers alike feel safe is of the utmost importance.”

6. USEF has released a slew of resources to help with taking the training and provide more information about SafeSport:

7. If you have any technical issues while taking the training, contact the U.S. Center for SafeSport’s Technical Support Help Desk at 720-676-6417. USEF recommends using Google Chrome or Firefox for the training. (I completed mine in Google Chrome on slow wifi and had no problems.)

8. Completing the online SafeSport training will be an annual requirement for all members, so once you complete your 2019 training you will receive a deadline of one year later to complete the 2020 training.

If you have any questions related to SafeSport, please contact Teresa Roper at [email protected].

Must Watch: This Three-Star Horse Was a Cow Pony in Another Life

By on Dec 18, 2018 9:00 am -

 

What does your three star horse do in the off season? Mowgli was in heaven today, Pure joy. I think there may be some cow cutting in his future? Kids do multiple sports these days right? who wants to come play Mowgli in the middle?!? 😉😂🤷🏻‍♀️🙈🤪🥰 #thanksforthelaughs #christmascameearly #monkeyinthemiddle #hissmilewascontagious #noshortageofpersonality #funinthesun #iwastryingtoplaygoalie #betterstarttraininghesfast! #mardanzafarm

Posted by Maya Black on Monday, December 17, 2018

This video of Maya Black’s three-star horse Mowgli playing with his ball is priceless. He was clearly a cow pony in another life! The 8-year-old Thoroughbred (Our New Recruit X Night Siren, by Fast Account) owned by The Mowgli Syndicate certainly proves that the breed is suited to a variety of different disciplines. On that note, trainer applications are now open for the 2019 Thoroughbred Makeover.

USEA Announces 2019 Dates and Locations for FEH/YEH Championships

By on Dec 17, 2018 8:57 am -

Tamie Smith and MB MaiBlume: 2018 USEA Young Event Horse 5-Year-Old East Coast Champions. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

The USEA has announced the dates and locations for the 2019 Future Event Horse (FEH) Championships and the 2019 Young Event Horse (YEH) Championships, as well as a new qualification structure for the YEH Championships.

YEH

YEH West Coast Championships will be held Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, at Fresno County Horse Park in Fresno, California.

YEH East Coast Championships will be held Thursday-Friday, October 17-18, 2019, during Fair Hill International in Elkton, Maryland. (The organizers are placing a cap of 55 horses at the YEH championships, so competitors will be urged to enter on the opening date. Of the 55 slots, 40 of those will be reserved for 5-year-olds, while the last 15 slots will be for 4-year-olds.)

FEH

FEH West Coast Championships will be held Thursday, Sept. 19, 2019, in conjunction with Twin Rivers Fall Horse Trials in Paso Robles, California.

FEH Central Championships will be held Thursday, Sept. 26, 2019, at Snowdonia Farms in Tomball, Texas

FEI East Coast Championships will be held Sept. 28-29, 2019, at Loch Moy Farm in Adamstown, Maryland

Changes to Note

The YEH program introduced major changes in 2018, including shorter dressage tests and a new scoring and judging system. The jumping/galloping test now accounts for 70% of the final score at both qualifiers and championships, and includes individual scores for each of the five show jumping efforts and 10 cross country efforts.

Those changes will remain in effect for 2019, along with a new qualification structure. Previously, a horse could qualify for the YEH Championships by scoring 70% or higher at two qualifying events, or by scoring 75% or higher at one event. Starting in 2019, horses must have one score of 75% or higher at any qualifier to be eligible for the 2019 YEH Championships.

Questions about the FEH or YEH programs? Contact Kate Lokey at [email protected].

[Dates and Locations Announced for the 2019 USEA Young and Future Event Horse Championships]

Monday News & Notes from Fleeceworks

By on Dec 17, 2018 12:01 am -

I sincerely hope anyone who made the early migration down to Florida packed their rain boots — or better yet possesses carpentry skills to build an ark. Ocala has been inundated with torrential rain over the past few days. The National Weather Service confirmed that Ocala set a rainfall record for the date on Saturday with 3.44 inches falling. The total rainfall since Friday evening racked up to 5.44 inches, with one area in western Marion County recording 7.1 inches.

It’s been a challenging year from a precipitation standpoint throughout the U.S. and across the pond. Please join me in a global rain dance in the hopes that 2019 will bring much drier weather and far fewer event abandonments.

National Holiday: National Maple Syrup Day 🥞

Name That Movie: “I happen to know everything there is to know about maple syrup. I love maple syrup. I love it on pancakes; I love it on pizza. I love to take maple syrup and put a little bit in my hair when I’ve had a rough week.”

Your Monday News & Notes:

Fair Hill International is seeking a new executive director in Elkton, Maryland. The Fair Hill eventing calendar goes from April to October, but the work goes on all year. The Executive Director reports to the Executive Committee of the Board, serves as the public face of FHI and assists the committees to do their work. [Job Description]

Applications are now open for the Retired Racehorse Project’s 2019 Thoroughbred Makeover, presented by Thoroughbred Charities of America. Now in its fifth year at the Kentucky Horse Park, the Thoroughbred Makeover features competition in 10 disciplines for recently retired Thoroughbreds with less than 10 months of retraining for a second career. Applications will be accepted through Jan. 15, 2019, and accepted trainers will be announced on Feb. 1, 2019. [TB Makeover]

This is your friendly reminder that all USEF members must complete SafeSport training by Jan. 1, 2019. To complete the training, log in to your USEF member dashboard at USEF.org and click the “SafeSport Training” icon. You need to register on the U.S. Center for SafeSport website prior to signing in. Recommended web browsers include Google Chrome and Firefox. (I used Chrome and had no issues.) [SafeSport Training]

Grand Oaks Horse Trials has adjusted the January 18-20 horse trials in Weirsdale, Florida, to a one-day format. Preliminary and Modified will run on Friday, Jan. 18. Open Training, Open Novice and Open Beginner Novice will run on Saturday, Jan. 20. Training Horse, Training Rider, Novice Horse, Novice Rider, Beginner Novice Horse and Beginner Novice Rider will run on Sunday, Jan. 21. [USEA Omnibus]

Monday Video: It’s Olympia week! Who’s excited?

An Eventer’s Holiday Checklist: Go See Brian O’Connor On Stage

By on Dec 14, 2018 4:57 pm -

Brian O’Connor as the Chairman. Photo by C. Stanley Photography.

You know Brian O’Connor as the voice of U.S. eventing in Area II and beyond, but did you know he is also an actor? While he ultimately pursued a career in announcing, Brian’s background is in theater, and he returned to the stage last year as the Chairman in Christmas at the Old Bull & Bush.

Brian is once again reprising the role this year at MetroStage in Alexandria, Virginia, and he is inviting all EN readers local to the area to take advantage of discounted friends and family tickets and see the play as part of their holiday celebrations.

As the Chairman, Brian narrates the frivolity and takes you into the merriment and revelry of the Bull and Bush, a historic London pub. You’ll enjoy Vaudeville-era tunes, classic Christmas carols, silly puns, sing-alongs (with lyrics provided!) and even a moving tribute to the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day. There is even a chance to join the cast in a hysterical reenactment of the Cratchit dinner from Charles Dickens’s beloved holiday classic, A Christmas Carol.

Joining Brian are veteran musical theater actors Sherri Edelen as the vivacious Florrie Forde; Albert Coia as the lovable and comical Bertie Ramsbottom, who regales the audience with a hilarious rendition of The Night She Cried in My Beer; and the singing and dancing pair, Jimmy Mavrikes and Katherine Riddle.

Broadway World said it best in reviewing the play: “Christmas at the Old Bull & Bush will keep you laughing and singing all the way home.” Christmas crackers, British beer and cider, mince pies and sausage rolls are also available to purchase at the MetroStage bar to ensure a truly festive evening.

Christmas at the Old Bull & Bush, directed by Catherine Flye, runs through Dec. 30 at MetroStage, 1201 North Royal Street, Alexandria, Virginia. Show times are 8 p.m. on Thursdays; 8 p.m. on Fridays; 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturdays; and 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.

To take advantage of the discounted ticket rate of $35, call the MetroStage box office at 703-548-9044. You must ask for the discounted rate and mention you are an EN reader coming to see the play in support of Brian O’Connor. (I’m seeing the Saturday matinee on Dec. 22 and hope to see lots of eventers there!)

Visit www.metrostage.org for more information.

Thursday Video from Nupafeed: Dressage in Infrared

By on Dec 13, 2018 4:30 pm -

Hat tip to Lainey Ashker for sharing this very cool video that shows a dressage test through the lens of infrared technology. It’s fascinating to see the different muscle groups that are engaged on the horse depending on the movement in the test.

The video was produced by Thermografie Centrum, which offers courses in medical infrared imaging and veterinary thermography in the Netherlands. Medical infrared imaging enables analysis of slight variations in skin temperature. The human hand can only detect changes of more than 2ºC (35.6ºF). Infrared cameras can detect changes up to a tenth of a degree centigrade and more without any physical contact with the horse.

Be sure to check out the other fascinating videos from Thermografie Centrum on their Facebook page, including how thermography can be used to detect lameness.

Max Corcoran Will Become Next USEA President in 2020

By on Dec 12, 2018 9:00 am -

Max Corcoran and Mr. Medicott share a moment at the 2012 London Olympic Games. Photo by Erin Gilmore.

Super groom Max Corcoran was carrying a bag of ice to her equine charges when Katherine Cooper approached her at Millbrook Horse Trials to ask if she would consider becoming the next president of the United States Eventing Association.

Katherine, who chairs the USEA Nominating Committee, explained the idea behind nominating Max was a simple one: because she knows all aspects of the sport. Max got her first job as a groom working for Bobby Costello at the tender age of 12 and competed on catch rides during the long format era.

She started working for Karen and David O’Connor in 2001 and spent the next decade grooming at the Olympic Games, World Equestrian Games, Pan American Games, and major events throughout North America and Europe.

Along the way, Max acquired a wealth of knowledge and is considered one of the foremost experts on horse management in the world. She continues to groom at events on a freelance basis, and also works as an event organizer for competitions such as The Fork Horse Trials at Tryon and the Ocala Jockey Club International Three-Day Event.

“The USEA figured all of that was a good balance,” Max laughed. She will shadow current USEA President Carol Kozlowski during 2019 before officially taking up the role in 2020 for a four-year term.

As to her vision for what she would like to accomplish as USEA president, Max said she will bring a “horses first” mission to the table in seeking to promote increased education about equine care in eventing.

“Anyone who knows me knows me I am really passionate about horsemanship. We are losing that a bit in the sport because of time constraints,” Max said. “Professionals are teaching their students to ride and not how to take care of their horses, but people are still hungry for that knowledge.”

On a broader spectrum, Max said she hopes to not only promote equine welfare but also kindness to fellow competitors in the sport.

“Our world is a little but of an ugly place right now, and people are quick to turn on each other. Something I notice between the show jumping and eventing crowds is that the show jumpers are pretty excellent to each other. They all watch, they all learn, they all ask each other questions, they all give each other advice — and they really mean it,” Max said.

“I feel like in eventing you get shunned a bit when you have a bad day, instead of someone walking by and saying, ‘Sorry about that. Is there anything I can do to help you?’ I feel like we miss that a bit in the sport. I think for us to truly support each other as competitors would be great for the lower levels on up to the top of the sport.”

Carol will officially pass the baton to Max at the 2019 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention in Boston, which will be held Dec. 11-15, 2019. As a native of Massachusetts, Max has assured me she intends the convention to be a serious celebration showcasing New England pride. The 2019 USEA Convention is sure to be an unforgettable weekend, as it will also mark the organization’s 60th anniversary.

Please join the EN team in congratulating Max Corcoran! Go Super Grooms. Go Eventing.

Stable View Eventing Academy Crowns Inaugural Series Champions

By on Dec 11, 2018 11:28 am -

Kailey Burack, pictured here with her parents, and Gimlet were crowned Tadpole Champions and Overall Champions of the 2018 Stable View Eventing Academy. Photo courtesy of Stable View.

Stable View Farm crowned the season champions for the inaugural Eventing Academy Series on Sunday in Aiken, South Carolina. The Eventing Academy gives horses and riders who are new to eventing the opportunity to school all three phases on a Saturday before competing in a one-day schooling horse trials on Sunday.

Levels from Sprouts (18″) and Tadpole (2’3″) are offered, along with Beginner Novice, Novice and Training. Mogie Bearden-Muller designs confidence-building cross country courses, while Julie Zapapas designs educational show jumping courses to help horses and riders prepare to compete at recognized horse trials.

Congrats to the 2018 Stable View Eventing Academy Series Champions!

Overall Champion: Kailey Burack and Gimlet

Overall Reserve Champion: Theresa Shahan and Simply Duchess

Theresa Shahan & Simply Duchess were crowned Beginner Novice Champions and Overall Reserve Champions. Photo courtesy of Stable View.

Training Champion: Jennifer Fox and Hazastory

Jennifer Fox and Hazastory were crowned Training Champions. Photo courtesy of Stable View.

Training Reserve Champion: Amy Kaplan and Mr. Montificent

Training Reserve Champion Amy Kaplan. Photo courtesy of Stable View.

Novice Champion: Beth Wheeler and Release My Mind

Novice Champion Beth Wheeler with Release My Mind’s owner, Linda Sullivan. Photo courtesy of Stable View.

Novice Reserve Champion: Sarah Cundith and Whatinsamhill (not pictured)

Beginner Novice Champion: Theresa Shahan and Simply Duchess

Beginner Novice Reserve Champion: Darrell Vaughn and Zander, owned by Shawna Dietrich (not pictured)

Tadpole Champion: Kailey Burack and Gimlet

Tadpole Reserve: Dawn Johnson and Broadway Bobby Z

Dawn Johnson and Broadway Bobby Z were crowned Tadpole Reserve Champions. Photo courtesy of Stable View.

Sprouts Champion: Holly Dana and Sweet Pea (not pictured)

Catlin Rugg and Syren were crowned Sprouts Reserve Champions. Photo courtesy of Stable View.

Sprouts Reserve: Catlin Rugg and Syren

Many thanks to the sponsors of the Eventing Academy awards and prizes: Aiken Saddlery, Horse Guard, Blanchard Equipment, Aiken Pest Control, The Hitch and Tow, Attwood Equestrian Surfaces, The Kneaded Edge and FITS. Click here to view the complete prize list.

The first Eventing Academy in the 2019 series will be held Feb. 23-24. Click here for the omnibus and information for the schooling day, and here for the omnibus and information for the schooling horse trials.

Thank you to Barry and Cyndy Olliff, Christine Turner and the entire Stable View team for making the inaugural Eventing Academy Series such a positive experience for all the horses and riders who participated.

Click here to view the full 2019 calendar for all events at Stable View.

US Equestrian Names 2019 Emerging Athlete Program Participants

By on Dec 10, 2018 4:23 pm -

Charlotte Collier and Clifford M. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The US Equestrian (USEF) Eventing Sport Committee has approved the list of athletes for the Emerging Athlete Eventing 18 and Eventing 25 programs for 2019. The program aims to identity and nurture athletes with the aim of competing at the highest level of the sport and representing the U.S. on an international level.

The athletes will participate in the Eventing 18 and Eventing 25 training sessions, and additional athletes will be invited to audit the sessions. USEF Eventing Emerging Athlete Coach Leslie Law will provide the Eventing 18 and Eventing 25 athletes and auditors with skilled instruction and insight in their respective training sessions. The athletes and auditors will also participate in lectures on horse management, physiotherapy and show jumping course design.

The 12 Eventing 18 athletes were selected based on the talent of the athlete or horse-and-athlete combination, and less on the horse’s ability. The Eventing 18 East Coast winter training sessions will be held in Ocala, Florida, on Jan. 7-10, 2019. The West Coast winter training session will take place Jan. 28-31, 2019, with a location still to be determined.

The Eventing 18 program participants are as follows:

  • Charlotte Babbitt (Petaluma, California)
  • Alexandra Baugh (Lexington, Kentucky)
  • Cierra Daratony (Dexter, Michigan)
  • Amanda Gardiner (Hollis, New Hampshire)
  • Brianna Maroney (Portola Valley, California)
  • Margaret Pellegrini (Newport Beach, California)
  • Dylan Philipps (Pittsboro, North Carolina)
  • Caitlyn Ruud (Franksville, Wisconsin)
  • Austin Skeens (Christiansburg, Virginia)
  • Sophie Tice (Danville, California)
  • Delaney Vaden (Grass Valley, California)
  • McKinsey Wickman (Prosper, Texas)

The Eventing 18 auditing participants are as follows:

  • Nicholas Beshear (Somerset, Virginia)
  • Jordan Crabo (Scottsdale, Arizona)
  • Elizabeth Henry (Lafayette, Indiana.)
  • Abigail Niles (Sherborn, Massachusetts)
  • Catherine Nolan (Kennett Square, Pennsylvania)

Twelve athletes were named to the Emerging Athlete Eventing 25 program. Talent advisors evaluated current form, competition results and the potential to make a valuable contribution in team competition. Advisors also had the option to talent-spot athletes onto the list who met the evaluation criteria but did not meet the CCI2* minimum eligibility requirement.

Leslie Law will work with the Eventing 25 athletes at their winter training session in Ocala, Florida, on Jan. 14-17, 2019, and on the West Coast from Jan. 28-31, 2019 with a location still to be determined.

Eventing 25 participants are as follows:

  • Amanda Beale Clement (Phoenixville, Pennsylvania)
  • Jenny Caras (Cartersville, Georgia.)
  • Charlotte Collier (Winchester, Virginia)
  • Hallie Coon (Ocala, Florida)
  • Cornelia Dorr (Manchester by the Sea, Massachusetts)
  • Mia Farley (San Clemente, California)
  • Jacob Fletcher (North Little Rock, Arkansas)
  • Woodge Fulton (Finksburg, Maryland)
  • Cosby Green (Lexington, Kentucky)
  • Mallory Hogan (Belvedere, California)
  • Ryan Keefe (Sandy Spring, Maryland)
  • Madison Temkin (Sebastopol, California)

Zoe Crawford (Reddick, Florida) will serve as an Eventing 25 auditing participant.

Click here to learn more about the Eventing 18 and Eventing 25 programs.

[US Equestrian Announces Emerging Athlete Eventing 18 and Eventing 25 Program Participants for 2019]

Eventing Riders Association of North America Honors 2018 Award Winners

By on Dec 10, 2018 12:52 pm -

ERA of NA President Shannon Lilley with Elisa Wallace and members of The Simply Priceless Syndicate, winners of the 2018 As You Like It Owners Award. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The Eventing Riders Association of North America (ERA of NA) celebrated the sport of eventing at the annual ERA of NA Awards during the USEA Annual Meeting & Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana. Co-hosted with US Equestrian, the evening served as a celebration of individuals who have had a profound and meaningful impact on the sport.

The festivities began by recognizing the junior and young rider members who competed in the Triple Crown Nutrition Prelim to Pro Championship held at Plantation Field International Horse Trials in Unionville, Pennsylvania. The Furlong’s Healthy Horse Team members were recognized for earning top honors in the team championship, and Cierra Daratony was celebrated as the individual champion.

The As You Like It Owners Award, named for Sara Kozumplik Murphy’s legendary CCI4* partner, is presented annually to an owner who has had a meaningful impact on a rider’s career. The Simply Priceless Syndicate of Steve and Vicki Sukup, Susan Day, Kimberly Loveless and Rick Wallace received the 2018 As You Like It Owner’s Award for their continued support of Elisa Wallace and Simply Priceless.

Formed in 2016, the Simply Priceless Syndicate has given Elisa and “Johnny,” a 17-year-old Australian Thoroughbred, the opportunity to compete at Kentucky, Burghley, Badminton and Blenheim, as well as numerous events throughout North America. The award, donated and supported by Sara Kozumplik Murphy and her longtime owner and friend, Edy Ramieka, also includes a $5,000 donation provided by Sara and Edy to an event of the winner’s choosing.

ERA of NA President Shannon Lilley and Mary Coldren. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The Seema Sonnad Above and Beyond Event Personnel Award recognizes an event organizer, secretary, volunteer or other staff members who throughout the year went “above and beyond” to guarantee the success of their events. Mary Coldren was announced as the 2018 recipient in recognition for her tireless contribution to the sport, including serving as managing director of Plantation Field International and secretary of Fair Hill International, as well as acting as a licensed technical delegate and show jumping judge.

ERA of NA President Shannon Lilley and Frankie Thieriot Stutes. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The Amateur Impact Award recognizes an adult amateur who shows a dedication to the sport of eventing and outstanding sportsmanship, and has made a direct impact on eventing in North America. The 2018 recipient, Frankie Thieriot Stutes, won the CCI3* events at The Event at Rebecca Farm and the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International with The Chatwin Group’s Chatwin.

USEA President-elect Max Corcoran with Shannon Lilley and Karen O’Connor. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The Liz Cochran Memorial Groom’s Award recognizes outstanding grooms who have had a key influence on a rider’s career and the health and well-being of the horses in their care. USEA President-elect Max Corcoran, one of the most respected grooms and individuals on the eventing circuit, received the 2018 award and a $5,000 grant. Max has worked for many of the sport’s top professionals, including Karen O’Connor, Sharon White and Joe Meyer, and groomed at multiple World Championships and Olympic Games.

Joanie Morris, USEF Managing Director of Eventing, and Dr. Mark Hart. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The evening came to a close by recognizing Dr. Mark Hart for his dedication and support of eventing in the North America. Mark was also honored for his work as Chair of the Eventing Owners Task Force, a role he officially passed to Gloria Callen during the USEA Convention.

[ERA of NA Honors Eventing’s Impactful Individuals]

That’s A Wrap: What You Need to Know After the 2018 USEA Convention

By on Dec 10, 2018 9:00 am -

USEA President Carol Kozlowski capturing the spirit of New Orleans during Saturday night’s Hall of Fame Gala. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

That’s a wrap on the 2018 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana. This year’s convention did not disappoint, with The Big Easy serving as a fitting backdrop to capture the true spirit of energy and enthusiasm that encompasses eventing in the U.S.

USEA President Carol Kozlowski said it best in her address to the Board of Governors: “There is a sense of camaraderie that is unique to our discipline.” The convention serves as a time to reminisce  on the past year, recognize the countless incredible people who make this sport so wonderful, and recharge for the year to come.

Please join me in thanking Jennifer Hardwick and her team for organizing yet another superb convention. Mark your calendars — next year’s convention will take place in Boston, Massachusetts, on Dec. 11-15, 2019, and will mark the 60th anniversary of the USEA.

If you missed any of EN’s coverage, keep scrolling to catch up on everything you need to know from the convention. If you missed watching the live stream, the USEA confirmed that videos will be released on-demand in the coming weeks.

EN’s 2018 #USEAConvention Coverage

Dip in USEA Annual Starters Attributed to Weather Woes

Erik Duvander Outlines 2019 Strategic Plan for U.S. Eventing Team

Photo Gallery: Eventers Celebrated at USEA Year End Awards Ceremony

‘Creating a Culture of Competitiveness’: USEF Training Lists Revamped for 2019

USEA Inducts Seven New Members Into Hall of Fame

Must-Read Quotes from the WEG Review Panel

The talented USEA media team also worked tirelessly during convention providing fantastic coverage — shout-out to fabulous friends of EN Leslie Mintz, Jessica Duffy and Claire Kelley. Be sure to read more of their coverage below.

Spotlight on Officials at the 2018 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention

VIDEO: Intercollegiate Open Forum with Leslie Threlkeld and Claire Kelley

Business is the Name of the Game at the 2018 USEA Annual Meeting of Members

Open Forums Continue on Saturday at the USEA Annual Meeting & Convention

Board of Governors Meeting Finishes Up the 2018 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention