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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

First Look at Dressage Stadium for Eventing at WEG

By on Jul 30, 2014 3:00 pm -
The dressage stadium for eventing at Haras du Pin. Photo via WEG Facebook page.

The dressage stadium for eventing at Haras du Pin. Photo via WEG Facebook page. (click for full size)

The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014 in Normandy Facebook page posted a photo of the dressage stadium for eventing set up and ready for action at Haras du Pin for the two days of dressage on Aug. 28 and 29. We knew there were a limited number of tickets sold for eventing dressage, and it does look like a fairly small stadium when compared to the huge d’Ornano stadium that will host the show jumping for the eventers an hour away in Caen. You can click on the photo to see a larger view.

It’s certainly a picturesque setting with the chateaux in the background, and it’s a much less claustrophobic setting than an arena enclosed on all four sides with the spectator stands parked right against the rails, which some horses — like Lynn Symansky’s Donner — strongly dislike. What do you think of the dressage stadium for eventing, EN? Weigh in below in the comments.

[30 days to go: The fitting-out of the venues continues]

Stephanie St. Pierre: Blyth Tait Brings His Expertise to Ontario

By on Jul 30, 2014 1:30 pm -

Arthur Tateishi partner with Eventing Canada[!] to host a Blythe Tate clinic at Pommele Acres in Tottenham, Ontario, earlier this month. Stephanie St. Pierre was kind enough to send in a wonderful clinic report. Remember to send your clinic reports, video and photos at [email protected].

Blyth Tate with Jackie Prior, Arthur Tateishi and Olivia. Photo courtesy of Olivia Epelbaum.

Blyth Tate with Jackie Prior, Arthur Tateishi and Olivia Epelbaum. Photo by Sonja Laing.

From Stephanie:

Ontario riders had the opportunity to ride with master horseman and eventer Blyth Tait earlier this month. The clinic was organized by Arthur Tateishi and Eventing Canada[!] and ran at the lovely Pommele Acres in Tottenham.

Blyth has long been a part of the New Zealand event squad, which dominated international eventing through the 1990s. He is based in England. He needs little introduction in the eventing world, but just a few of his career highlights indicate his great experience and depth of knowledge:

  • 1990 World Championships in Stockholm (with Messiah) individual and team gold
  • 1992 Olympics in Barcelona (with Messiah) individual bronze and team silver
  • 1996 Olympics in Atlanta (with Ready Teddy) individual gold (with Chesterfield) team bronze
  • 1998 World Championships in Rome (with Ready Teddy) individual and team gold

Blyth retired after the Athens Olympics in 2004 and returned to New Zealand to train racehorses. He was team manager for the New Zealand eventing team at the 2006 World Equestrian Games and the 2008 Olympics.

In early 2011, Blyth came out of retirement and is again competing actively.

As well as being a great rider, Blyth Tait is a natural teacher and an excellent clinician. At Pommele Acres, he was fully engaged as he worked with each group and was really generous with both his encouragement and advice for every rider.

There were a few consistent concepts that came into play throughout the clinic.

The Canter: Blyth talked about the three canters one needs in both show jumping and cross-country riding. He defined them as:

  • 1st gear or a “sneaking about canter” (or collected canter). This canter was useful for approaches to more technical jumps, such as narrow-faced fences, jumps on a down-hill approach, vertical jumps or fences with tight turns on landing.
  • 2nd gear or “ordinary canter” (or working canter)
  • 3rd gear or “going places canter.” This canter was important riding uphill or to a wider, ascending oxer.

Impulsion: He described as “contained power” — needed in all three gears of the canter. He encouraged strong impulsion toward oxers and uphill jumps by softening the hand and using the leg to move up to the jump and then, in his words, “sail over it like a bird.”

Steering issues: Blyth was particular about riding the correct line to get to the middle of the fence. He also noted how the turns before fences affected the impulsion and the canter. Coming through a short turn to an oxer, he recommended riders flow through the turn, as making it too square resulted in a loss of impulsion. Conversely, a square turn helped create a more “sneaking around” canter helpful toward a vertical plank jump.

Rider position: Blyth encouraged a light seat and a still upper body. Riders sitting heavily on their seat needed to find their weight in their leg and heel. He noted that riders sitting too far back also tended to jump too far ahead.

Normal: He encouraged riders to have a “normal” ride — i.e. the canter neither too long nor short, no dramatic changes before or after the jump, no exciting arm-flapping. High praise from Blyth was “congratulations, that was a very normal ride.”

It was a rare opportunity to train and spend time with one of the greats in our sport. Those who participated all came away with greater knowledge, some homework for the future and a smile. Special thanks to Blyth for his kind demeanor and friendly presentation. Many thanks to Arthur Tateishi and Eventing Canada [!] for bringing Blyth Tait to Ontario.

USEA: Tips for Traveling to the AECs in Texas

By on Jul 30, 2014 12:00 pm -
Adequan USEA Gold Cup winners Laine Asher and Anthony Patch at the 2013 AECs. Photo by Liz Hall. Adequan USEA Gold Cup winners Laine Asher and Anthony Patch at the 2013 AECs. Photo by Liz Hall.

The American Eventing Championships are just 60 days away on Sept. 25-28, and our friends at the USEA compiled a great list of tips on making the long haul to Tyler, Texas. If you’re qualified for the AECs but nervous about trailering or the cost, read on — you might find a way to make it work after all.

From the USEA:

  • Use the USEA Ride Share Listings to find a travel partner and share a trailer.
  • To keep your horse overnight without breaking the bank, look into local or state fairgrounds.
  • Check out sites like www.horsetrip.com or www.horsemotel.com for more ideas on where to keep your horse overnight.
  • Consider buying the Nationwide Overnight Stabling Directory & Equestrian Vacation Guide at www.overnightstabling.com.
  • If you need somewhere cheap or free to hang your hat overnight, www.CouchSurfing.com has become a popular resource.

Those are just five of the USEA’s great tips on traveling to the AECs, so be sure to click here to read the full list of recommendations. This is the 10-year anniversary of the AECs, and the USEA will give out $100,000 in prize money across the divisions, along with a ton of great prizes. Click here for everything you need to know about the AECs.

[Lower Cost, Lower Stress: Pro Tips for Traveling to the AEC/ATC/Gold Cup Final]

[2004-2014: AEC Celebrates Ten Years with Extravagant Product and Cash Prizes]

Courtney King Dye, Silva Martin Press On After Brain Injuries

By on Jul 30, 2014 10:30 am -
Courtney King Dye received the 2012 FEI Against All Odds Award in honor of her work to raise helmet awareness. Photo used with permission from the FEI. Courtney King Dye received the 2012 FEI Against All Odds Award in honor of her work to raise helmet awareness. Photo used with permission from the FEI.

Their accidents occurred much in the same way.

In March 2010, U.S. Olympic dressage rider Courtney King Dye was schooling a horse that tripped and fell. She fractured her skull and suffered a traumatic brain injury in the fall; she was not wearing a helmet.

Four years later in March of this year, Grand Prix dressage rider Silva Martin suffered a seizure and bleeding on the brain when the horse she was riding tripped, knocking her forward and causing her to hit her head on his neck before she fell to the ground.

Because of the helmet awareness sparked by Courtney’s accident, Silva was wearing her helmet that day, and this Sunday, she will present the inaugural Charles Owen Equestrian Role Model Award at the Millbrook Horse Trials Benefit Luncheon to Courtney, the person who arguably saved her life.

“I grew up in Germany where we rode without helmets because that’s just what we did in Germany, and when Courtney got hurt, I couldn’t believe it,” Silva said. “It was such a crazy accident, and I’ve never not worn a helmet since.”

Courtney was in a coma for four weeks after her accident, and she then spent three months in therapy learning how to walk and talk again. Four years later, the traumatic brain injury still affects her coordination and speech.

Her accident inspired the launch of Riders4Helmets, a helmet advocacy group that commemorated the first International Helmet Awareness Day on July 12, 2010, and has continued to honor the day on each July 12 since, partnering with helmet manufacturers to offer discounts.

The Charles Owen Equestrian Role Model Award carries with it a $5,000 cash prize to be donated to the charity of the winner’s choice, and Courtney will give her check to Riders4Helmets, which started a helmet revolution in the U.S. and beyond, ultimately spurring other awareness campaigns like Evention’s popular #mindyourmelon movement.

Silva Martin and Rose Cha W. Photo by Samantha Clark.

Silva Martin wearing her helmet aboard Rose Cha W last year. Photo by Samantha Clark.

“The difference in awareness to helmet usage my accident has instigated makes me feel that it served a purpose instead of being a simple tragedy,” Courtney said. “I said at the beginning that if my accident saves one life, it makes it seem worthwhile, but the attention to safety it’s evoked has saved many and continues to save more.”

Courtney said she has heard from countless riders since the accident who, like Silva, said her injury encouraged them to regularly strap on a helmet, ultimately preventing a brain injury or even saving their lives in subsequent serious falls.

“Many people have reached out saying my accident saved their life, but no one else ever hears of them,” Courtney said. “The fact that Silva’s accident was so highly publicized shows the world that helmets can save lives, so it’s only right that she should be with me to present a check to Riders4Helmets, as she’s contributed a great amount to spread its message.”

And both Courtney and Silva continue to show that there is life — a rich, wonderful life — after a traumatic brain injury. Courtney gave birth to her first child, a daughter, River, on Feb. 20 of this year and said she is now very much focused on raising her, so much so that she has chosen to forego further therapy at this time.

“I spent nearly four years obsessively trying to heal, to become what I once was, and I realized I was sacrificing enjoying the things I still can do,” Courtney said. “Up until five months ago when I had my daughter, I was still in therapy to improve what I could, but now my daughter is way too important and time-consuming!”

Courtney continues to teach clinics and lessons and still holds onto her goal of one day representing the U.S. on the Paralympic Dressage Team. She qualified for the 2012 Paralympics in London but ultimately decided to forego the U.S. Selection Trials and now looks ahead to Rio.

And Silva is returning to competing this week for the first time since the accident — appropriate timing considering the meaning behind Sunday’s award presentation at Millbrook. She’ll be riding Benefactor RRS, a 6-year-old gelding owned by Melinda Walton and Larry Smith, in 2nd Level today and tomorrow at ESDCTA Summer Days in Gladstone, N.J.

“I’ve been riding Benny for a long time, and he’s very quiet,” Silva said. “My plan is to qualify for GAIG finals for regional championships and maybe qualify for the U.S. finals. It’s my first show back, so we’ll see how it goes.”

Silva Martin and Benefactor in Wellington last year. Photo via Boyd and Silva's blog.

Silva Martin and Benefactor in Wellington last year. Photo via Boyd and Silva’s blog.

Silva said she’s been incredibly lucky to have such a supportive group of people around her to keep the horses going during her recovery, and she’s excited to finally be back in the saddle, though she’s still taking the return to riding one step at a time.

“My balance is getting better every day, but the challenges with my vision are still hard,” Silva said. “It’s coming back slowly, but I’ll still have surgery on my eyes in November, so I’m excited for that because I just want to be done with it. You don’t appreciate what you have until you don’t have it.”

Though her vision continues to be a daily struggle, Silva said her doctors expect her to ultimately make a full recovery, though no doctor is willing to give a guarantee.

“It’s hard because no brain injury is the same, and I had a very rare injury with bleeding on the mid-brain. Lots of people don’t survive that type of injury because you can’t do surgery on it. I was lucky enough that it stopped bleeding. Because it’s so rare, doctors don’t know exactly what will happen.”

In the meantime, Silva, like Courtney, plans to keep defying the odds, as evidenced by the fact that she’s already riding her U.S. Nations Cup gold medal partner Rose Cha W, owned by the Rose Cha W Syndicate, less than five months after the accident.

“She’s a hot horse, but because I’ve had her all her life, I know her inside and out,” Silva said. “It’s really awesome riding her again, and she takes care of me.”

We wish all the best to Silva as she returns to the show ring today, as well as safe travels Saturday night as she flies to Millbrook for the presentation of the Charles Owen Equestrian Role Model Award to Courtney on Sunday afternoon.

“I’m a huge fan of Courtney,” Silva said. “She was one of the most beautiful riders I’ve ever seen, and for her to go out of her way to make life better for everybody else despite what happened to her is truly amazing.”

We couldn’t agree more. Go Silva, and Go Courtney.

Click here for Millbrook organizing committee member Steve Blauner’s comments on the Charles Owen Equestrian Role Model Award. For more information on Millbrook Horse Trials, click here.

Watch Matt Brown’s Path to Victory in the Rebecca Farm CIC3*

By on Jul 30, 2014 9:00 am -
Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF. Photo by Miles Barrett. Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF. Photo by Miles Barrett.

Thanks to Ride On Video, we have video of Matt Brown’s path to victory in the CIC3* at Rebecca Farm with Super Socks BCF. Matt and “Flaxen” were fourth in the horse’s first CIC3* at Twin Rivers in April, scoring 53.4 in dressage and adding 6.4 cross-country time penalties and one rail in show jumping to finish in fourth place on 63.8.

At Rebecca, they scored 47.3 in dressage from judges Gretchen Butts, Susan Baxter and Marilyn Payne, an improvement on their previous CIC3* score of six points. They jumped clear over Ian Stark’s challenging CIC3* track with 7.2 time and then turned in a beautiful clear show jumping round the next day to clinch the win on 54.5 — that’s a nearly 15-point margin over second place.

Matt and Flaxen have been invited to train with Coach David O’Connor on the last two USEF Eventing High Performance Training Lists. Keep your eyes on this pair, EN! Many thanks to Ride On Video for sending us footage of Matt and Flaxen’s dominant performance across all three phases. Go Eventing.

How to Watch the World Equestrian Games Online

By on Jul 29, 2014 4:30 pm -
Screenshot via FEI TV Screenshot via FEI TV

With the World Equestrian Games less than a month away, it’s time to start getting ready to cheer on Team USA and Team Canada. If you’re not traveling to Normandy to watch the action live, that means hashing out a game plan for how you’ll be watching the Games online.

EN’s good friend John Kyle has confirmed that FEI TV will be live streaming “every single ride in every single discipline” — and he’ll be commentating on most of them. Eventing starts on Wednesday, Aug. 27 with the first horse inspection, and FEI TV’s live broadcast of eventing will begin Thursday morning, Aug. 28, with the first day of dressage.

Remember that France is six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time, which means you’ll need to be getting up in the wee hours of the morning to watch the live stream or pulling an all-nighter depending on where you live in North America.

If you don’t have an FEI TV subscription, it costs $14.99 per month or $79.99 per year. Click here to subscribe.

We’re continuing to search for other live stream options and will post additional information as we find it.

[FEI TV]

Rebecca Farm to Add a CCI3* Starting Next Year

By on Jul 29, 2014 10:52 am -
Beautiful Rebecca farm. Photo by Jessica Kerschbaumer.

Beautiful Rebecca farm. Photo by Jessica Kerschbaumer.

In a huge step forward for West Coast eventing, Rebecca Farm has announced plans to add a CCI3* to the popular July event. Rebecca will become just the fifth CCI3* in North America and only the second to service eventers who live on the western side of the United States.

Event organizer Sarah Broussard told the Flathead Beacon that she’s hoped for many years to add a CCI3*, and now the time is finally right: “It is time to move forward and provide the western competitors a CCI 3-Star. We want to continue to make this a showcase event,” Sarah said. “We want to create a CCI 3-Star in the U.S. that is truly international quality.”

Rebecca Farm will join Jersey Fresh in Allentown, N.J., in May; Bromont in Bromont, Quebec, in June; Fair Hill in Elkton, Md., in October; and Galway Downs in Temecula, Calif., in October, as the events in North America that offer a CCI3*.

Twenty-one horses and riders contested the Rebecca Farm CIC3* both this year and last year, a hopeful indicator that the CCI3* would attract a good field. With just one CCI3* on the West Coast calendar at Galway Downs at the very end of the season, West Coast eventers looking to contest a CCI3* earlier in the year have generally trekked across the country to Jersey Fresh or Bromont.

Offering the CCI3* in July at Rebecca will mean West Coast-based riders can stay much closer to home and tackle a three-star at an event that’s long held a special place in the hearts of riders who make the pilgrimage each year.

As if the Broussard family hasn’t already done enough to support U.S. eventing, adding a CCI3* starting with next year’s competition is just one more way they are continuing to better the sport. Many thanks to the Broussards for their tireless work on one of the best events in North America.

Go Eventing.

[The Flathead Beacon: Three-Star Glory]

Millbrook Horse Trials Ready for Record Weekend in New York

By on Jul 29, 2014 9:00 am -
The Millbrook water complex. Photo by Kate Samuels. The Millbrook water complex. Photo by Kate Samuels.

The 14th annual Millbrook Horse Trials kick off this Thursday in New York, and nearly 500 horses and riders are entered to contest Tremaine Cooper’s cross-country course, which features new fences on the area’s famous rolling hills. What makes Millbrook such a highlight of the season for so many eventers? Steve Blauner, who sits on the organizing committee, said there’s more than just one answer.

“Partly, it’s the scarcity factor, as Millbrook is the last event of the season in Area I that still runs Advanced and Intermediate divisions,” Steve said. “Secondly, we really try to make it a first-class experience for the horses and riders; as we say, it’s all about the riding.”

Fellow organizing committee member Louise Meryman focuses on making sure the facilities are top notch for horses and riders alike, Steve said. And Millbrook has a beautiful backdrop to create those top-notch facilities for competitors, as the countryside truly makes this event one of the most picturesque in Area I.

“It’s just beautiful country with the rolling hills, which a lot of riders find refreshing, particularly if they’re based outside Area I,” Steve said. “This event gives an opportunity to run your horse over something other than totally flat ground.”

Course designer Tremaine Cooper introduces new elements to the course each year, from the Beginner Novice level all the way up through Advanced, which this year boasts 48 entries. “We’re one of the few events in the country that runs Beginner Novice to Advanced, and the course is meant to be friendly and welcoming to the riders at all levels,” Steve said.

The terrain makes Millbrook an ideal venue for watching cross country too, as spectators can see large sections of the course while perched on one of the hills. The WaterView Tent is also a favorite spot for spectators to watch the action, Steve said.

“You can buy a ticket to have breakfast and lunch in the WaterView Tent and sit right by the water jump to hear expert commentary from professional riders, who will take the mic all day long while the horses are going through the water,” Steve said.

And while cross-country day is sure to thrill both riders and spectators alike, one of the true highlights of the weekend will come on Sunday during the annual Benefit Luncheon, which this year will feature the inaugural presentation of the Charles Owen Equestrian Role Model Award to Courtney King-Dye.

“This is the first year that we’re fully operational as a 501(c)3,” Steve said. “In the past, our lunch was run by, staged by and put on by the Duchess Land Conservancy, which conserves the land over which we run the event. This year, we were on our own to organize the lunch.

“The board was looking to do something significant and different. One of our board members, Bridget Colman, came up with the idea of giving an award to a horse person who has made a significant, positive impact on all equestrian sports.”

Though none of the board members had ever met Courtney, they unanimously agreed that she has made an incredible impact on the lives of riders in all equestrian sports through her advocacy work to raise helmet awareness since she suffered a traumatic brain injury in a fall in March 2010.

“For me personally, the hat never went on until I started to jump and sat perched on a post on my outdoor ring,” Steve said. “That’s really changed since Courtney’s accident and her outreach through Riders4Helmets. She was a natural person to receive this award.”

The board decided in February to give the award to Courtney, which proved to be serendipitous timing, as Silva Martin’s fall that left her with bleeding and swelling on her brain occurred one month later.

“Boyd said that Silva really owed her life to Courtney because she started wearing a helmet after Courtney’s fall, and had Silva not been wearing her helmet on March 5, the diagnosis would have been a very different and much more dire one,” Steve said.

It’s sure to be an emotional occasion on Sunday, as Silva will present the Charles Owen Equestrian Role Model Award to Courtney, the person who arguably saved her life.

“Nobody would ever accuse me of being a very emotional sort of person, but I just couldn’t be prouder about the award and how it’s come together,” Steve said. “It’s so unusual when one person can make such a positive contribution to so many people. Teachers and great artists and great people like Courtney can honestly say, ‘I’ve made an impact on literally tens of thousands of people and probably saved a few lives.’”

The award gives $5,000 to the winner to be donated to the charity of choice, and Courtney will be donating the prize money to Riders4Helmets, which recently celebrated the 5th annual Riders4Helmets International Helmet Awareness Day on July 12.

Tickets are still available for the Benefit Luncheon and can be purchased on Millbrook’s website. A ticket to the lunch also includes a prime seat for the PRO Four Bar Competition, in which two PRO riders and two local amateur riders will compete against each other for $1,000 in prize money.

Between the huge Advanced division, presentation of the Charles Owen Equestrian Role Model Award at the Benefit Luncheon and PRO Four Bar Competition, it’s going to be an action-packed weekend at Millbrook. Visit www.millbrookhorsetrials.com to purchase tickets for the Benefit Lunch and WaterView Tent.

Go Millbrook, and Go Eventing.

Millbrook Links: [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets]

France Announces World Equestrian Game Squad

By on Jul 28, 2014 7:31 pm -
Pascal Leroy and Minos De Petra. Photo by Jenni Autry. Pascal Leroy and Minos De Petra. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Thierry Touzaint, coach of the French eventing team, named the World Equestrian Games squad for France today. The horses and riders who will be representing France are:

Pascal Leroy and Minos de Petra

Jean Teulère and Matelot du Grand Val

Maxime Livio and Qalao des Mers

Cédric Lyard and Cadeau du Roi

Denis Mesples and Oregon de la Vigne

Thomas Carlile and Quiro Hoy

Rodolphe Scherer and Makara De Montiege have been named as the reserves. Best of luck to the French team as they look to medal on home turf in Normandy.

Go Eventing.

Riders Praise Great Meadow as Ideal Final Outing Before WEG

By on Jul 27, 2014 2:00 pm -
Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot. Photo by Jenni Autry. Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Team USA had nothing but good things to say about the WEG Prep Trials in the press conference following cross country at Great Meadow, and Kim Severson went so far as to declare this the best final outing the team has ever had. “If I was still a selector, I’d be very pleased with today,” Kim said, which is high praise coming from a rider who has represented the U.S. at numerous championships.

Phillip Dutton, who brought home the win with Bruce Duchossois’ Mighty Nice, agreed with Kim, noting that the rainfall in The Plains, Va., last night made the footing even better, and it proved to be the ideal location for the horses to have a proper gallop — “We couldn’t have hoped for a better weekend,” he said.

In addition to having great footing for cross country, Coach David O’Connor said he chose Great Meadow as a final outing venue because it has an arena that can create the type of atmosphere the horses will experience in Normandy — as evidenced by the nearly 900 people who attended yesterday morning to form an enthusiastic crowd for dressage.

“It produced an atmosphere that was very beneficial for us and for the horses because we don’t get to practice in that environment,” David said. Indeed, aside from Rolex, these horses and riders have likely never experienced such an electric atmosphere at another venue in the States, as more than 5,000 people watched show jumping last night.

David’s track rode beautifully this morning, with all 14 horses and riders jumping clear. He said in the press conference that he designed the track as a preparation for Normandy, as opposed to a test. He was able able to use elements that mirror WEG course designer Pierre Michelet’s style, such as combinations set on a half circle, three-stride related distances and mounds.

“We really do feel like (WEG) will be a cross-country dominant competition, which we’re really excited about because we have fantastic cross-country horses and riders,” David said. “That was part of the idea in the selection … these horses and riders have a real ability to answer any type of question someone is going to put in front of them.”

Rob Banner, president of the Great Meadow Foundation, also spoke at the press conference to unveil exciting plans for Great Meadow’s future — think hosting a three-star next year and ultimately hosting an FEI Nations Cup leg for eventing. We’ll have much more on that later this week, but for now, it’s clear Great Meadow is going to be a very exciting venue for the future of eventing in the U.S.

For a taste of just how pumped up everyone is after a great weekend, watch the video of the awards ceremony below. Team USA needed a weekend like this to show boost morale and show the riders we believe they can go to France and come home with a medal. Team spirit has never been stronger, and we’re less than a month away from go time. Get excited, EN. Go Eventing.

Great Meadow: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Course Preview] [Dressage Videos] [Show Jumping Videos] [EN’s Great Meadow Coverage]

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice Win Great Meadow WEG Prep Trials

By on Jul 27, 2014 11:53 am -
Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice. Photo by Jenni Autry. Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM turned in the fastest time of the day on cross country at Great Meadow, picking up just .4 time penalties with a cracking round. But it wasn’t quite enough to catch Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice, who ultimately clinched the win in the WEG Prep Trials with a clear trip and 1.2 time penalties to win by just .2 points on a score of 48.2. U.S. WEG squad alternates Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot jumped clear with 8 time penalties to finish third behind Buck and Reggie on a score of 48.4.

All 14 horses and riders who set out on David O’Connor’s cross-country course came home clear, and it proved to be a wonderful track to prepare horses and riders for the World Equestrian Games next month, with about 4,000 spectators coming out to cheer on Team USA and Team Canada. Aside from Buck and Phillip, most riders set a conservative pace in this last outing before the horses ship to France, as the goals for each pair differed depending on the plan they set with David, which he talked about on Friday.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Boyd Martin had a steadier, slower round with overnight leader Shamwari 4, and he said yesterday that he wouldn’t press the gas pedal down all the way today. The horse is coming off a top-three finish at Luhmühlen last month, and Boyd said he planned to focus on having a consistent round with positive jumping efforts to get the horse on his toes for Normandy. Boyd and Shammie picked up 11.6 time penalties to ultimately finish in fifth place behind U.S. team alternates Marilyn Little and RF Demeter, who picked up 6 time penalties to finish on 53.5. Marilyn and Demi are targeting Burghley or Pau with their Land Rover grant.

Trading Aces’s fast trip with Phillip Dutton for 3.6 time penalties put him in sixth place on 55.6, followed by Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville, who had a beautiful, bold trip through the Land Rover Splash at fences 11 and 12 to come home with 7.2 time penalties. Lynn Symansky and Donner looked very much back in the groove today, cruising around for 12.4 time penalties to finish in eighth place on 59.9. Fernhill Fearless also looked very keen at the Land Rover Splash, and the crowd gave a huge cheer for Kim Severson as she came through there. They picked up 10.5 time penalties for ninth place on 61.4.

Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Team Canada all finished in a cluster on the leaderboard, led by Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High, who added 8 time penalties to finish in 10th place. Jessie Phoenix and A Little Romance, her main horse for the Canadian WEG squad, picked up 15.2 time penalties for 11th place, followed by her alternate mount Pavarotti in 12th place, who had 19.2 time penalties. She picked up the save of the day with Pavarotti at the Land Rover Splash — check it out on the video below.

Meghan O’Donoghue and Pirate had an easy trip around for 18.4 time penalties in preparation for Burghley, and Buck Davidson and Park Trader round out the leaderboard with the slowest time of the day for 22.8 time penalties. Buck was last out on course with Reggie, and the crowd of 4,000 clustered around the final jumps to cheer them home. There’s definitely a sense of team pride here this weekend, and it’s been very inspiring to watch the fans rally around our WEG team riders.

Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville. Photo by Jenni Autry.

It’s been a fantastic weekend at Great Meadow, and I can’t thank the officials, sponsors and volunteers enough for putting on such a wonderful event to prepare our WEG team for Normandy. I have much more to bring you, including video of the Land Rover Splash, video of the awards ceremony and the full press conference report. Keep checking back for much more from Great Meadow. Go Eventing.

Great Meadow: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Course Preview] [Dressage Videos] [Show Jumping Videos] [EN’s Great Meadow Coverage]

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Great Meadow WEG Prep Trials Cross-Country Live Updates

By on Jul 27, 2014 8:40 am -
Fence 6 Fence 6

Good morning, EN! It rained overnight here in The Plains, Va., and more storms are predicted during the day. Cross country gets underway at 9 a.m. EST with Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot first out on course. It should take about an hour for all the riders to come through, and if cell reception cooperates, I’ll be posting live updates from my phone. Be sure to check back later today for the full cross-country report, as well photos and videos. Go Eventing.

9:05: Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot home clear about 20 seconds over time.

9:08: Eight time penalties for HSB and William. Phillip Dutton and Trading Aces and Buck Davidson and Park Trader on course now.

9:10: 3.6 time penalties for Phillip and Trading Aces.

9:15: Buck and Park Trader home clear and 57 seconds over time.

9:18: Jessie Phoenix shows great stickability at the corner out of the Land Rover Splash with Pavarotti. Clear so far!

9:22: Clear and 19.6 time for Jessie and Pavarotti.

9:25: Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless home clear with 10.4 time.

9:30: Leaders Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4 finish clear with 11.6 time.

9:35: Lynn Symansky and Donner come home clear with 12.4 time.

9:40: Clear for Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High with 8 time.

9:42: Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville flying through the Land Rover Splash. #onamission

9:45: Sinead and Tate home clear with 7.2 time.

9:50: Marilyn Little and RF Demeter home with 6 time to go into second place behind Hannah and William.

9:55: Meghan O’Donoghue and Pirate clear with 18.4 time.

10:02: Jessie Phoenix and A Little Romance cross the finish flags clear with 15.2 time.

10:07: Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice home fast and clear with 1.2 time penalties to take the lead!

10:12: Buck Davidson and Balleynoe Castle RM finish clear with .25 time penalties to just finish second to Phillip and Happy! Very exciting finish. Stay tuned for the full report.

Great Meadow: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Course Preview] [Dressage Videos] [Show Jumping Videos] [EN’s Great Meadow Coverage]

Boyd Martin Holds the Lead on Electric Night at Great Meadow

By on Jul 26, 2014 9:08 pm -
Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4. Photo by Jenni Autry. Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4. Photo by Jenni Autry.

It’s an electric night here at Great Meadow, with a huge, enthusiastic crowd of thousands lining the main arena for the WEG Prep Trials for U.S. and Canada. Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4 jumped a beautiful clear round to hold their lead going into cross country tomorrow, and he definitely started celebrating over the final fence — that’s just the type of night it’s been here in The Plains. Everyone here is pumped up for WEG, and the excitement is contagious!

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot were first out to jump — a position Hannah said she’s never been in before, as you’ll hear her say in the interview below. But she handled the pressure beautifully, and all their hard work in the Twilight Jumpers has paid off. They delivered a lovely clear round to hold second place, taking their dressage score of 45.0 through to cross country tomorrow.

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

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

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice put some show jumping demons to rest with a clear round, which moves them up from fourth to third on a score of 47.0. Happy tends to get really amped up in this phase, which we saw last month at Luhmühlen when he pulled three rails. But he kept a lid on it today, jumping a very nice round to leave the poles in the cups.

Lynn Symansky and Donner also jumped clear, though a pesky time penalty dropped them down one place to equal fourth. Donner was jumping out of his skin — a telling sign he hasn’t lost his edge during their relaxed spring season. Marilyn Little and RF Demeter also jumped a clear round, showing they can deliver under pressure when it really counts; that clear round puts them in equal fourth with Lynn and the Flying Deer.

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Crowd favorites Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM delivered another clear round — and he gave us photographers a courtesy warning that he was planning to take the inside turn near where we were standing. Thanks, Bucks! Reggie continues to look on point, and it’s clear he’s a different horse than he was four years ago when he represented Team USA at WEGs. They remain in sixth place on 48.0 heading into cross country.

Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless also join the clear round club, and I’ve never seen Sparky jump better. He was adjustable and attentive to Kim, and they delivered a beautiful trip as a result. Manoir de Carneville looked raring to go for Sinead Halpin, and they unfortunately had a rail down, which drops them from fourth to equal eighth with Phillip Dutton and Trading Aces, who jumped clear. That makes Phillip two for two tonight.

Lynn Symansky and Donner. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Lynn Symansky and Donner. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Selena O’Hanlon leads the way for Team Canada in 10th place with Foxwood High, who pulled a rail and picked up one time penalty. Woody is such a careful jumper, and they just had an unlucky rail down tonight. In truth, there were quite a few lucky rubs, and my fingers are crossed that luck carries #teamcamerica onward to France! Pavarotti came in guns blazing for Jessie Phoenix, and they dropped two rails and picked up three time to move down one spot to 11th place.

A Little Romance, also known as The Little Mare That Could, had one unlucky rail in an otherwise lovely round; I want to emphasize once again that this mare gives 110 percent to everything she does — such a cool horse. Meghan O’Donoghue and Pirate dropped one rail in a very careful round that picked up 11 time penalties, which drops them to 13th place on a score of 70.0. Park Trader rounds out the bunch with three rails down and six time penalties; Kobe is desperately seeking directions to David O’Connor’s cross-country course. 

USA! USA! USA! Photo by Jenni Autry.

USA! USA! USA! Photo by Jenni Autry.

It was very inspiring to hear hundreds — maybe thousands? I need a head count from Great Meadow guru Nate Chambers — cheering for Team USA and Team Canada. All the riders are having a blast at the event, and Great Meadow has done a wonderful job of putting on an event that is really getting everyone amped up for WEG. Check back soon for a video gallery of tonight’s show jumping rounds. Go WEG!

Great Meadow: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Course Preview] [Dressage Videos] [Show Jumping Videos] [EN’s Great Meadow Coverage]

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Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF Take the Lead in Rebecca CIC3*

By on Jul 26, 2014 3:06 pm -
Matthew Brown and Super Socks BCF. Photo by Miles Barrett. Matthew Brown and Super Socks BCF. Photo by Miles Barrett.

Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF took the lead in the Rebecca Farm CIC3* after tackling Ian Stark’s cross-country course this morning in Kalispell, Mont. Sitting in second place after dressage on a score of 47.3, Matt and Super Socks jumped clear with 7.2 time penalties to move up one spot. This is the horse’s second CIC3*, as he just did his first at Twin Rivers in April, where he and Matt finished in fourth place on 63.8. Super Socks pulled one rail at that event, but left all the poles in the cups in his most recent Advanced run at Woodside, so it will be an exciting finish tomorrow.

James Alliston and Mojo moved up from eighth to second place after turning in the fastest trip in the division with just 2 time penalties, which puts them on a score of 57.4 heading into show jumping tomorrow. Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice, who led after dressage, dropped down to third with a clear trip and 10.8 time penalties. This is Ginny’s final prep run before representing Canada in the World Equestrian Games.

Fifteen of the 21 pairs who set out on course completed the track, and 11 pairs jumped clear. Andrea Baxter and Fuerst Nino R retired at fence 9, a ditch and wall and corner combination, after picking up two stops earlier on course, and Natalie Rooney and Jefferson parted ways at this combination. Barb Crabo and Over Easy had a stop at the first water at fence 11 before electing to retire there.

The coffin combination at fence 16 caused the most trouble on course by far, with Katie Frei and Houdini and Kimmy Steinbuch and Pikture This both retiring there after one refusal. Lauren Billys and Ballingowan Ginger were eliminated after three refusals at this combination. Leah Breakey and Master Plan and Andrea Baxter and Indy 500 also picked up 20 penalties at the coffin combination before going on to complete the course.

Matt Brown is also leading the CCI2* after a double clear trip with Happenstance, which moved him up one spot with his dressage score of 43.8. Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster moved up from fourth after dressage to second place thanks to turning in the only other double clear trip in the division; they take their dressage score of 49.0 forward to show jumping. Kaitlin Veltkamp and Flashpoint D round out the top three on 55.8.

In the CIC2*, Marc Grandia and Fernhill Eagle delivered the only double clear trip to move up from fifth to first place on 58.1. Ashlyn Meuchel and Morning Star jumped clear with four time penalties to move up from fourth to second place on 61.5. Taren Atkinson and Gustav picked up 12.8 time penalties to drop one spot from second to third place.

Cross country is also underway in the big CCI* division, with Lauren Billys and Jitter Bug currently leading. Be sure to check back later for Chesna Klimek’s full report, as well as photos and a video from the press conference. And if you missed it, be sure to check out photos of all the fences on Ian’s CIC3* course here. Go Rebecca Farm!

Rebecca Farm Links: [Website] [Live Scores] [Rebecca Farm on Facebook] #RF

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Great Meadow WEG Prep Trials Dressage Video Gallery

By on Jul 26, 2014 1:47 pm -

I’m currently holed away at Middleburg Common Ground coffee house uploading videos of this morning’s dressage tests at the WEG Prep Trials in Great Meadow. Finding wifi that’s fast enough to upload videos is one of the biggest challenges we face, so I appreciate your patience. Keep checking back to this post; I’ll be updating it once each video uploads.

Click here for a full recap of this morning’s tests and an interview with Boyd Martin, Hannah Sue Burnett, Lynn Symansky and Sinead Halpin. Boyd leads on a score of 42.0 with Shamwari, followed by Hannah and Harbour Pilot on 45.0, and Lynn and Donner on 46.5. Show jumping starts at 7 p.m. EST. Go Eventing.

Great Meadow: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Course Preview]

Frankie Thieriot: Honoring Candace Rice Durr as the Ultimate Super Mom

By on Jul 26, 2014 1:29 pm -

Candace Rice Durr is a much-loved super mom in Area VI who is now bravely fighting a battle against breast cancer. We originally published Frankie Thieriot’s touching post in her honor on July 16, and we’re bumping it up again today in support of the Halt Cancer at X program at Rebecca Farm. Go Candace!

An appropriate photo from this week — John Michael Durr and mom Candace Rice at NAJYRC in 2004.

An appropriate photo for this week — John Michael Durr and mom Candace Rice at NAJYRC in 2004.

From Frankie:

Selfless, hardworking, dedicated, passionate, kind, loving, considerate, but most of all, SUPER MOM. These words all describe an incredible woman who has made a tremendous impact on countless lives across the country, and especially within Area VI.

Despite never riding herself, Candace Rice Durr has contributed to countless aspects of the sport of eventing. It all began when her son, John Michael, then a young boy in purple chaps and a red hat, started taking riding lessons at the Oakridge Stables European pony school and caught the bug, so to speak. It was also around this time — when I could not have been older than a third-grader myself — that I remember meeting the Durr family and Candace.

Throughout the years, Candace and her husband John were always coming and going to the barn, shuttling their son John Michael Durr, who is now an Advanced level competitor and coach, back and forth to our stables. I remember them always being warm and kind to all of us other barn kids and the way Candace was always thoughtful and lending a hand at the barn, all while juggling her job as an accountant services manager.

When I went to Young Riders in 2000, I remember getting back to the barn after a successful, yet very long trip home from Chicago to find a huge sign and basket from none other than Candace congratulating me, and to this day remember how special it made me feel.

Fast forward to today, and Candace Rice Durr has worn more hats than I can count. Despite her initial lack of eventing knowledge back in the days of that purple-chapped, red hat-wearing boy, Candace has since proven to be a highly skilled show mom! At any given horse show, you can find her tapping in scores as part of the well-known Scoring Chix, then quickly dashing back and forth to videotape all of John Michael’s rides, then back to scoring, or to comfort or console a competitor on a ride that didn’t go how they hoped.

Candace amazes everyone who knows her on yet another level — with her dedication toward bettering the lives of others, even after being diagnosed with breast cancer and the subsequent treatments she has undergone battling the disease. She has never stopped smiling, cheering everyone on, and, yes, even fulfilling her duties as Area VI treasurer. Time and time again, Candace has demonstrated all the qualities of a SUPER MOM. The truth of it is that Candace is more than just a mom to her children; she has been a mother figure and friend to countless people in addition to taking the word “volunteer” to new heights.

In true Candace form, she is upbeat, courageous and continues to show her zest for life in her breast cancer journey. Support Candace and the Halt Cancer at X program by clicking here to donate to the cause and send Candace a note on her Facebook page. We love you, Candace, and are fortunate to have you as a friend and part of our riding community.  “Thank you” does not seem like a word great enough for all you have done for us.

[Halter Cancer at X]

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Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4 Lead WEG Prep Trials on 42

By on Jul 26, 2014 12:01 pm -
Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4. Photo by Jenni Autry. Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4 are leading the WEG prep trials at Great Meadow on a score of 42.0 after a beautiful, nearly mistake-free dressage test. Had Shammie not been a bit opinionated in the changes, the test would have been dangerously close to cracking the 30s, which is very exciting when you consider Boyd still has one month before Normandy to solidify their partnership. 

After the test, Boyd said they’re still working on smoothing out the little details, but the partnership is progressing well. It’s been a quick turnaround for Shammie since he just ran a month ago at Luhmühlen, and Boyd said he’ll run him a touch slower tomorrow with that in mind. The focus will be on giving the horse a confident run before Normandy, he said in our interview, which you can watch below.

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

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

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot are in second place on 45.0, and Hannah said she was thrilled with how William handled the atmosphere. After Team USA’s combined test in training camp on Wednesday, Hannah said she was able to review her test with judge Sandy Phillips to go over a few places where she could pick up additional marks.

She worked on that today, though Hannah said she pushed for a bit too much in some spots, like in the medium walk when William jigged a bit. She’s been doing the Twilight Jumpers in this arena to tune up William’s jumping this summer, and she said he’s feeling much stronger behind and jumping beautifully as a result.

Kim Severson gives Fernhill Fearless a reassuring pat after their test. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kim Severson gives Fernhill Fearless a reassuring pat after their test. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Lynn Symansky and Donner put in the best four-star performance of their career to date for a score of 46.5 for third place. With Normandy just a month away, this is a perfect time to be peaking, and Lynn said she was thrilled with how mature he proved to be in handling the atmosphere.

Donner isn’t fond of an arena where spectators line the rails, so jumping under the lights tonight will definitely be a challenge for him, but the Flying Deer will be in his element tomorrow. After cantering around the Bromont CIC3* last month, Lynn said she’s been saving Donner for this moment and intends tomorrow to give him the good prep gallop he needs before shipping to France.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice, his reserve horse on the U.S. WEG squad, are in fourth place on 47.0 after putting in a consistent performance. Much like their test in Luhmühlen, there were a few bobbles here and there, but Happy continues to mature with each outing. Marilyn Little and RF Demeter round out the top five on 47.5 with another consistent test, as you’ll see in the video gallery.

Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville are close behind in equal sixth place on 48.0. Tate had a few sassy French moments, but Sinead said she was very happy with him and will look to polish those little bobbles before Normandy. The quality of his work in the little white box continues to improve, especially in the consistency of the contact, she said.

All smiles after Tate's lovely test. Photo by Jenni Autry.

All smiles after Tate’s lovely test. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM are also sitting on 48.0 after dressage. Again, there were a few little bobbles here and there that they’ll be looking to smooth out before Normandy, but this was another very nice test. Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless are in eighth on 51.0, which was perhaps a bit harshly marked. They put in a very fluid performance, and their work on this test should only continue to improve with one more month left to polish the details.

After producing eight for eight perfect changes with Trading Aces at their past two outings together, Phillip’s hot streak came to end today, with Oscar’s trademark attitude bubbling to the surface. The sticky changes impacted the score for 52.0. Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti are the best-placed Canadian pair on 54.5 in 10th place. The changes weren’t quite confirmed today for this horse, who is Jessie’s reserve for Normandy.

Meghan O'Donoghue and Pirate. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Meghan O’Donoghue and Pirate. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Meghan O’Donoghue and Pirate are in 11th place on 55.0, and I thought this was one of the nicer tests we’ve seen from this pair. Meghan is such a lovely, classical rider, and though Pirate can’t compete with the big, powerful movers we saw today, they paint a very nice picture and put in an accurate performance. Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High are in 12th on 58.0, and Woody seemed a bit tense today, definitely more so than what we saw from them in Kentucky.

Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance are in 13th on 64.5. At just 9 years old, Blue Eyes is still learning at this level and building the strength she needs to achieve the quality of work that can pull good marks. I can’t stress enough how hard she tried today, and if these tests were scored on sheer heart, this little mare would be in first place hands down.

Phillip Dutton and Trading Aces. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Trading Aces. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Buck Davidson and Park Trader are in 14th place on 66.5, and Kobe was looking fighting fit. He put in a very relaxed test in Kentucky, but he just didn’t want to play in the little white box today. Lauren Kieffer and Veronica unfortunately scratched from the competition due to a “mishap in warmup yesterday.” I am trying to confirm more details on Veronica’s condition and will update this post when I know more.

I have videos of virtually every test to bring you and will be posting those in this gallery as they upload. There’s a break in the action now as we wait for show jumping to start under the lights at 7 p.m. EST. There will also be a bareback puissance later tonight, so it’s going to be a very fun day at Great Meadow. Stay tuned for much more. Go Eventing.

Great Meadow: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Course Preview] [Dressage Video Gallery]

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Great Meadow WEG Prep Trial Cross-Country Course Preview

By on Jul 26, 2014 8:00 am -
Fence 8AB Fence 8AB

David O’Connor designed the cross-country course for the World Equestrian Games prep trials at Great Meadow to serve as more of a practice run than a serious test for the 12 U.S. pairs and three Canadian pairs set to tackle the track on Saturday. But as you’ll see in the preview photos, there are definitely questions that will keep horses and riders on their toes.

The footing is in perfect condition thanks to the rain The Plains, Va., has seen in recent weeks, so you can expect riders to set out at a fast pace in this final prep run before shipping out for Normandy. Be sure to watch David’s interview below, in which he offers some insight on his course.

Many thanks to Great Meadow guru Nate Chambers for giving EN a tour of the course. The grounds look fantastic and ready for the more than 3,000 spectators who purchased tickets for the event. Dressage kicks off at 8 a.m. EST this morning, with Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot the first to do battle in the little white box. Stay tuned for a full recap later this morning. Go Great Meadow.

Great Meadow: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Friday Afternoon Sights & Sounds from Great Meadow

By on Jul 25, 2014 6:00 pm -
Lookin' good, girls! From left, Meghan O'Donoghie, Sinead Halpin, Lynn Symansky and Hannah Sue Burnett walking the course. Lookin' good, girls! From left, Meghan O'Donoghie, Sinead Halpin, Lynn Symansky and Hannah Sue Burnett walking the course.

Hello from Great Meadow! It’s a beautiful afternoon here in The Plains, Va., where the U.S. riders had lessons with Coach David O’Connor and ring familiarization in preparation for the start of the World Equestrian Games prep trials, which kick off tomorrow morning at 8 a.m. with dressage. 

It’s been a busy week for Team USA, as training camp began on Tuesday at nearby Morningside Farm, and the riders all did a combined test on Wednesday. Sandy Phillips, who is judging dressage tomorrow; David; and team show jumping coach Silvio Mazzoni all worked with the riders on Thursday.

Today, riders spent the afternoon walking David’s course, which we’ll have a full preview of tomorrow morning. Lots of rain in the area in recent week has made for spectacular footing, and David said he designed the course as more of a practice track than a serious test for the horses and riders.

This event is designed to be a final prep outing for the team before Normandy, just like a combination would target a final practice event before a big competition like Badminton or Burghley. With that in mind, David said he’s expecting the riders to set out at full cross-country pace on Saturday.

Watch the video interview for more of David’s comments on the course, which definitely has a French flavor to mirror WEG course designer Pierre Michelet — think mounds, three-stride related distances, and a combination loop at the bottom of the course.

And thanks to team sports chiropractor Dr. Holly Moriarty, the riders will be feeling their best when they tackle the course on Saturday. Holly was on the grounds all afternoon adjusting and stretching the riders to get them feeling their best.

Normandy will be the first major championship in which a sports chiropractor will travel with the U.S. eventing team, as David had Holly join the staff in January. She’s been working with the riders ever since, watching them ride and then adjusting them accordingly to improve their performance and comfort level.

If you missed yesterday’s post, click here for everything you need to know about Great Meadow. It’s going to be a great weekend with beautiful weather! Stay tuned for much more from The Plains. Go USA! Go Canada!

Great Meadow: [Website] [Ride Times] [Tickets]

Everything You Need to Know About Great Meadow

By on Jul 24, 2014 9:00 am -
This scene will be packed this weekend! Photo courtesy of the Great Meadow Foundation. This scene will be packed this weekend! Photo courtesy of the Great Meadow Foundation.

Yesterday marked the 30-day countdown to the opening ceremony of the World Equestrian Games in Normandy, and Team USA has been hard at work in training camp this week in preparation for the WEG Prep Trials in The Plains, Va., which will start Saturday morning.

More than 3,000 tickets have been sold for the event, so it’s going to be packed with spectators eager to get a glimpse of the U.S. team that will hopefully bring a team medal back to the States for the first time since 2002, when John Williams, Kim Severson, David O’Connor and Amy Tryon won team gold in Jerez, Spain.

Jessica Phoenix and Selena O’Hanlon will also represent Canada at this weekend’s WEG prep trials. Fellow Canadian WEG team member Hawley Bennett-Awad will be competing in Montana in the Rebecca Farm CIC3* with Gin & Juice. Selena and Hawley both rode on the 2010 WEG silver medal team for Canada.

Ride times were posted last night. Dressage will start at 8 a.m. Saturday morning to beat the heat. Riders will perform FEI CCI4* Test B under the watchful eye of judge Sandy Phillips; the same test will be used in Normandy. Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot will kick off the day, and Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM will be the last pair in the little white box at 10:21 a.m.

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Jimmy Wofford will lead a course walk at noon, unveiling the new track designed by David O’Connor and constructed by former Rolex course building assistant Aaron Rust. The course will be set at Advanced height but shortened to less than six minutes in length with a pace of 570 meters per minute.

After the course walk, there will be a gap in the action until the VIP dinner reception starts at 5 p.m., with proceeds benefitting the Great Meadows Foundation and U.S. Equestrian Team. Then the action starts again at 7 p.m., when the riders take on Richard Jeffries’ show jumping course, which will be set at 1.30 meters.

After show jumping, be sure to stick around for the bareback puissance, which will start at 8:30 p.m. in the main arena with a cash prize of $1,000. There will also be a cash bar and dancing in the pavilion until 11:30 p.m.

The gates open at 8 a.m. Sunday morning, with cross country starting at 9 a.m. and lasting for about an hour. An awards presentation and press conference will follow. It will be a short competition but an exciting one!

Tickets are still available here. The cost is $30 for one day and $50 for a two-day pass, and you can bring your largest car to pack in all your friends since tickets are purchased per car load. Check out the promo video for the weekend below. Get excited!

Go Eventing.

Great Meadow: [Website] [Ride Times] [Tickets]

NBC’s 45-Minute Rolex Recap Now Available Online

By on Jul 23, 2014 2:19 pm -

NBC’s full 45-minute recap of this year’s Rolex is now available online via Rolex’s YouTube channel. It’s been three months to the day since the first horse inspection in Kentucky, and it feels like just yesterday in watching the highlights again. What were your favorite moments from this year’s Rolex? Let us know in the comments below, and relive all the action by checking out EN’s extensive coverage of the event here. Go Rolex.

[EN’s 2014 Rolex Coverage]

Allie Nelson Clinches CH-J* Gold in Rags-to-Riches Fashion

By on Jul 23, 2014 9:00 am -
The victorious Area II team, from left, Grace Fulton, Meg Schaeffer, Allie Nelson and Maddie Mosing. Photo by Laura Reilly. The victorious Area II team, from left, Grace Fulton, Meg Schaeffer, Allie Nelson and Maddie Mosing. Photo by Laura Reilly.

Everyone loves a Cinderella story, and Allie Nelson’s rags-to-riches tale of how she ultimately won an individual CH-J* gold medal at the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships in Lexington, Ky., this past weekend is a pretty good one.

She started riding like many of us did — at a local hunter/jumper barn at the ripe age of 7. “I also saw people do eventing, and I thought it was the coolest thing,” Allie said. “I really like a challenge, and I’m very competitive and determined, so I really wanted to try eventing.”

With the help of her mom, JoAnn, Allie bought her first pony for $500 from an auction. “He was badly abused, so we rescued him, and I broke him,” Allie said. “We did jumpers, and then I decided to switch to eventing. We evented Beginner Novice together, and he was not a dressage pony at all, but he could jump the moon.”

When it came time to move on to a new horse, Allie, then 11, found another unlikely prospect in Total Eclipse, then a 4-year-old, 15.1-hand unbroke Appaloosa gelding her barn had taken in as a rescue case from a local western farm. “They didn’t want him because he had such a big trot that they couldn’t sit it,” Allie said. “I started working with him, and a year later, I bought him for $800.”

At 12 years old, Allie started training “Casper,” the horse that would ultimately become a gold-medal winner on the biggest stage for junior riders in North America. “I broke him, and we moved up the levels together, which was cool because it was our first time doing everything together,” Allie said.

“We definitely had struggles because he’s very athletic, and I was young, but we also had the most amazing moments. I don’t come from a very wealthy family; the horses that I’ve had, I’ve trained up myself. It’s definitely taught me how to ride, and I wouldn’t change it because I’m so proud of Casper for how far he’s come.”

Victory gallop! Photo by Meg Schaeffer.

Victory gallop! Photo by Meg Schaeffer.

While there were plenty of bumps in the road along the way as Allie and Casper, now 10 years old, learned the ropes in eventing together, she never lost sight of a goal she set from practically the moment she took her first riding lesson: representing Area II at Young Riders.

“Since I was 7 years old, it’s been my goal to get to Young Riders,” Allie said. “Even being there was the most amazing thing. I definitely went there for my team. We altogether were hoping to pull out the gold. That’s everyone’s wish, but we were also very focused on keeping our horses happy and healthy and doing our best.”

Of course, the fact that the Area II CH-J* team also won team gold just makes the story that much sweeter, and Allie said she’s incredibly proud of her teammates, Grace Fulton, Meg Schaeffer and Maddie Mosing, all of whom jumped clear cross-country rounds.

“It wasn’t just that I got individual gold; it was the whole team — we got gold together,” Allie said. “They’re all incredible riders, and we formed the biggest bond after experiencing that together. We were best friends at the end of it, and they were all wonderful, supportive people to be around.”

Allie also said she couldn’t have achieved this milestone without the help of Lynn Symansky, who she trains with at home in Virginia, as well as Area II coach Sinead Halpin, who worked with the riders at training camp for a week prior to shipping out for Kentucky.

“Sinead helped me so much at camp and then when we were in Kentucky,” Allie said. “She taught me so much in just that week we were with her before Young Riders. She made sure we were all ready and took us cross-country schooling at the O’Connor’s so we would be prepared.”

Allie also wanted to thank her mom for all her financial support, as well as Meg Kep and Rich Frankel, co-coordinators of the Area II Young Riders program. “It’s been incredible, and I could not be more thankful to everyone who helped get us there. This is the happiest moment of my life. I’m on top of the world.”