Steve Teichman. Photo courtesy of USA Eventing FB.

After nearly 30 years of service to USA Eventing, Steve Teichman has officially retired as the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team Farrier. Join us as we thank him for his service over the years and his invaluable contribution to medals won, and to wish him a very well deserved retirement!

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Grand Oaks H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Southern Arizona Eventing Association H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Live Scores] [Show Photographer]

Major International Events:

Portugal Winter Tour Week 1/Barroca d’Alva: [Website] [Start Lists]

News From Around the Globe:

The USEA has a new program named the USEA Interscholastic Eventing League (IEL) and since the announcement last month, this new program has gained widespread interest from members all over the country. The USEA website now has an interscholastic homepage that includes guidelines, a scoring template for event organizers, an IEL application form, and a list of interscholastic teams that are already registered for 2021. Interested in joining up? Read more on how to get in on this hot new program. [How To Sign Up for the USEA IEL]

If your equestrian life has been turned upside down by 2020 and various restrictions, well, you’re not alone. Getting back into a schedule and a program can be hard, and taking fitness for both horse and rider seriously is important. Slow and steady wins the race, according to the amazing Lucinda Green. She recommends at least a month to six weeks of slow work, hacking and hills prevalent. [Lucinda Green’s Top Tips For Getting Back in the Saddle After Lockdown]

If you’re watching The Crown, you’ll be delighted to see we’ve reached the time of Diana as well as Princess Anne. You’ll be less delighted to notice that in the exhaustive research for this highly detailed series, they seem to have completely mixed up show jumping and eventing. In fact, they filmed “Badminton” where Anne placed 6th in 1979 at Hickstead, and even featured some of the classic show jump feats. How dare they! [The Crown Mixes Up Eventing and Show Jumping]

Equestrian sport is often painted in the public eye with the stain of cruelty and abuse. It only takes a brief Google or social media search to find horrifying videos and blaring headlines. We all live within this landscape. As equestrians and lovers of horse sport, we must dodge the moguls of public opinion and avoid the landmines of hyperbole. [The Perils of a Shifting Landscape]

Ellie Wood Baxter, age 100. Photo by Elizabeth King.

In my neck of the woods, Ellie Wood Baxter is a legend. Actually, she’s a legend everywhere, but she also happens to live about five minutes from me, and she’s always been a part of the local horse scene for me. Ellie Wood won the 1936 Maclay Finals, and competed from the 1920s through the 1960s, and fox hunted until just a few years ago with the Farmington Hunt Club. This photo is from this week, where at age 100 she’s still going for rides, and happily lecturing people on correct lower leg position. An inspiration to us all!

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Grand Oaks H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Southern Arizona Eventing Association H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Live Scores] [Show Photographer]

Major International Events:

Portugal Winter Tour Week 1/Barroca d’Alva: [Website] [Start Lists]

News From Around the Globe:

Body image issues can affect women and girls in any sport environment – including and maybe especially equestrian sports. We all have a role to play in breaking down these barriers, but Equestrian Canada is taking a more active role. Offering resources on mental health and specific guides to effectively coaching female athletes, they’re showing their dedication to taking down body image stigmas that we all feel. [Body Positivity Resources for Equestrian Athletes]

Ema Klugman has been making the most of her spot on the Australian High Performance Eventing Generation NEXT Squad, despite the disruption of 2020. Using online resources and coaching from Will Enzinger, as well as securing funding through the program to work on her weaknesses in dressage, Ema was able to secure her first FEI win in the CCI3*L at Virginia a few weeks ago. A big bonus to the program is the new workshops with Chris Burton, which Ema says have been incredibly helpful. [Ema Klugman Making the NEXT Move]

What happens when a horse show dad enters the world of Fox Hunting? Coming from the world of show hunters where expensive warmbloods in perfect braids and early mornings and long days are normal, this horse show dad was pleasantly surprised to find that arrival at 10:30 was appropriate, and mimosas were normal pre-ride beverages. Read on for a delightfully tongue in cheek exposé of a different discipline. [Tally Ho]

Best of the Blogs: When Discussing Diversity, Bring Your Anxieties To The Table

Best of Blogs Part II: Displaced by COVID: What I Learned When I Left My Life and My Horse Behind

Video: Laura Collett reviews her 2020 Pau 5* win on London 52 in a new feature video for H&C TV. Here’s the trailer, and you can watch the full version here.

I’ll never tire of silly horse faces. Photo by Kate Samuels.

For the past two days, it’s been raining non stop in Virginia, but also about 65* at night. SIXTY FIVE at night. In November. What is happening?! Also all of the horses that I clipped last month already need to be clipped again and I don’t know what this combination means as an omen for the winter season, but I’m extremely skeptical.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

MARS Tryon International Three-Day Event: [Website] [Schedule] [Drawn Order] [Volunteer] [Show Photographer] [Live Scores]

Morven Park H.T.: [Website] [Ride Times] [Show Photographer] [Volunteer]

Twin Rivers November H.T.: [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Show Photographer]

News From Around the Globe:

The winter season is a perfect time to give your horse an active rest. Not just time off, but relief from the hard mental and physical work of the show season schedule. Your horse’s brain can get exhausted from the workload, but also tendons and bones and muscles don’t always get the rest they need during the year, so now is the time to switch it up, accomplish some goals, but get out of the ring. [Active Rest: 3 Ways To Keep Your Horse in Shape While Preventing Burnout]

In a refreshing twist, dressage rider Jan Brons preaches simplicity as the key to success. While other riders have the equivalent of calculus to keep their horses happy and trained well, Jan rides and coaches with the idea of simple puzzle solving. Selecting honest horses and training them one piece at a time until it all comes together for the big picture. “Dressage should be easy” is his motto, and the results speak for themselves. [Success Through Simplicity]

Spend the winter getting that perfect half pass to bring out with a bang in 2021. When a horse and rider have a good understanding of each other and get that elusive open shoulder and big crossing, it’s the perfect picture of harmony and ease. In reality, of course, getting a fluent and expressive half-pass requires strength and suppleness from the horse, as well as considered and precise riding. Learn about the correct aids, common mistakes, and how to train it better at home. [Riding the Perfect Half Pass]

Barn cats! No real barn is truly fulfilled without a few barn cats, most of which live until they’re 20 and see legions of horses and riders go through their barn. But caring for them and protecting them from the outdoor elements and predators is a different task than your other domesticated animals. You take care of them, they take care of your rodents, and rub your legs every day. [Caring for Barn Cats]

Helmet cam action from Pratoni, which FYI, is the host of the 2022 WEG!!

Some weeks, you just need your brain pulsed. Photo by Kate Samuels.

From the year that brought you six months of March, we now have the week of Tuesday. I believe today is the fourth Tuesday of November so far, and the weekend may be cancelled in light of more Tuesdays. However, I’m writing this at night, so I my predictions could be wrong and tomorrow could, in fact, be Saturday! Let’s all hope. I feel like we could really use a weekend right now.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Full Moon Farms H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Majestic Oaks H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

River Glen H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Texas Rose Horse Park Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

War Horse Event Series November H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Major International Events:

Pratoni International CCI4*L/CCI4*S: [Website] [Entries] [Live Scores]

News From Around the Globe:

The world said goodbye to Shane Rose’s five-star horse All Luck this week, as he died at home at the age of 26. Lucky was a racehorse in his first career, and then took Shane all the way to England in 2006 and finished 3rd at Burghley. The pair was also part of the silver medal team at the 2008 Hong Kong Olympics, producing the fastest cross country time of the day. [RIP All Luck]

The National Turf Writers And Broadcasters pledged $5,000 to the Lexington, Ky.-based Legacy Equine Academy Inc., a unique program that allows African American and racially diverse Middle and High School students the unique opportunity to build life skills while learning horsemanship through exposure to the many opportunities on farms and in the horse racing industry. Legacy Equine Academy recruits students who are then tagged as a “Legacy Leaders” at the Middle School level. Academy members then identify the targeted students interested in the equine industry and works to ensure their candidacy for Locust Trace multi-level curriculum during their High School years, creating a pipeline toward developing future farm and racing industry professionals. [NTWAB Pledges Money to Inclusive Middle School Program]

British Eventing funded a study into the effectiveness of air jackets in the event of a riding fall. The research calculated the risk of severe chest injury fell from 94 percent when wearing a standard BE body protector to 81 percent when wearing an air jacket. While this means the air jacket could reduce the likelihood of severe injury if a horse falls on a rider, BE stated there is still a “high probability” of riders incurring a severe injury. The study further concluded the air jacket is “unlikely” to prevent fatalities should a horse fall directly on a rider. [Air Jackets: Worth It?]

Everybody needs some horsey smooches this week. Photo via Skyeler Icke Voss

Well folks, this week is a testing one for the old United States of America, and I can’t really say more than that, as our futures right now are largely unknown in a lot of ways. We are so fortunate to be able to access our emotional support animals on a regular basis, and it’s no surprise that horses are used worldwide for therapy. My best advice is to follow the lead of young Brinley here and smooch a horse today, and wear a princess dress if it pleases you.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Full Moon Farms H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Majestic Oaks H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

River Glen H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Texas Rose Horse Park Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

War Horse Event Series November H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

News From Around the Globe:

Remember 2014 in Kentucky, there was a small bay thoroughbred with a white face that galloped around the now 5* by the name of Ziggy. Partnered with his owner Rachel Jurgens, Ziggy added just a handful of time to his dressage score, and moved up 27 places to finish in 24th place. After deciding to focus on her business Pony Espresso, Rachel handed the reins to Andrew McConnon, who competed with Ziggy up to the Advanced level, before moving to England and in turn passing him to Rachel King, who competed through Preliminary with him until he was 21. And now, unexpectedly, after a lifetime of distinctly not enjoying the first phase, Ziggy finds himself a willing partner in the journey to Grand Prix dressage at the age of 25. [From Trakehners to Tempi Changes]

Low back pain getting you down? That’s basically a rhetorical question, I think most riders have some kind of lower back pain on a semi regular basis. There are lots of ways of managing it, from strengthening exercises to regular body work, we’ve all got our systems. If you’re looking for new hot tips, check out this pod with Tony Sandoval, joined by Dr. Jenni Douglas from Event Fit Rider Performance, Natasha Gunston from The Eventing Physiologist, and Lisa Bauman from Om Riding for a conversation moderated by Nicole Brown of the Equiratings Eventing Podcast and USEA Official Podcast for a discussion on the topic of low back pain in riders. [Low Back Pain Management for Riders]

With the deep, deep joy of horses, comes the equally deep and even more difficult decision to euthanize a horse. No giving it a euphemism, such as “putting down,” because it is unpleasant. No, this action needs to be done with a clear and concise decision. We spend our lives taking care of animals, putting their needs in front of ours. You thirsty after riding?  Tough, take care of your horse first. You don’t want to go out in the cold? Not an option because the animals need to be fed. Knowing when it’s time is part of caring for them. [When It’s Time]

Dover Saddlery’s HorsePower has been created to bring awareness to positive actions that further unify our equestrian community, support differences, and enrich lives through experiences with horses. Check out their new page to explore the journey of amazing foundations, groups, and individuals who all provide hope, inspiration, education, and healing, to people through the power and passion of horses. [Dover Saddlery’s HorsePower]

Deniz & Caroline. Photo courtesy of Deniz Pamukcu.

Big congratulations go out to Caroline Martin today, as she not only dominated both the five-year-old and four-year-old YEH Championship classes at VHT but got engaged to Deniz Pamukcu! What a week! Winning both of those classes is a huge accomplishment professionally, and it’s nice to see a personal happiness as well. Congrats Caroline!

National Holiday: National Cat Day

U.S. Weekend Preview: 

Galway Downs International Event & H.T.:  [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

The VHT International & H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [YEH Scores]

Rocking Horse Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

News From Around the Globe:

With record entries this year, the YEH Championships for the East Coast wowed the judges at VHT. As previously mentioned, Caroline won the 4 year old class with Redfield HSH Connor, finishing on an impressive 89.37 score, leading the pack from start to finish. She also won the 5 year old class with Redfield King, who at 18 hands conquered the challenges with ease, finishing on a 93.27! The second half of the five-year-olds had to be rescheduled for Sunday, as the bad weather and deteriorating footing conditions made it impossible to continue jumping. They will be scored as a separate division. [4-YO YEH Championships] [5-YO YEH Championships]

Ready for some podcast action during your Friday activities? In this episode of the Horse & Hound Podcast, US Olympic event rider Lauren Nicholson (née Kieffer) talks to podcast host and H&H eventing editor Pippa Roome about her transition from ‘barn rat’ through to Olympic rider and the special horses she’s worked with along the way. Also, a Pau recap and more! [H&H Podcast]

Each international division at VHT has at least one YEH graduate competing in it. With 16 YEH graduates from CCI* to CCI3*-L, they’re scattered everywhere on the entry list. Previous winners and top finishers from both four and five-year-old classes grace the grounds at the Virginia Horse Trials, can you spot them? [YEH Finishers Compete in International Divisons]

Best of Blogs: Leaving Home at 15 To Chase My Dressage Dreams

Get your 10 point wellness and soundness check in perfect order with Dr Tim Ober. Going over your horse head to toe should happen on a daily basis if possible, and definitely knowing what to look for before issues arise is important to the longterm success of your partnership. [10-Point Soundness Check]

Listen: Karen and Rob from Major League Eventing get to know the great voice of many events heard around the world: Brian O’Connor, a legendary announcer who has called everything from Pony Club to WEG.

Watch: Go babies go! From the West Coast USEA Future Event Horse Championships at Woodside last week…

Obsessed! Photo via Chanel Rhodes.

I can’t deny that I am completely obsessed with this matching look from Chanel Rhodes and her mare Lady, on their peaceful ride with the Compton Cowboys to the Compton Library to cast their votes. The ride was to raise awareness for voting this election season, and was absolutely wonderful. But matching hair for horse and rider? That’s next level.

National Holiday: National Cat Day

U.S. Weekend Preview: 

Galway Downs International Event & H.T.:  [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

The VHT International & H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Rocking Horse Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

News From Around the Globe:

In news of vain petitions, dressage riders have petitioned the FEI to allow senior riders to wear top hats. Stating that the top hat is essential to the identity of dressage riders, and that there has never been a serious accident at an international dressage competition, and the riders believe there is no reason to change that for senior competitors at CDI4*/5*, Games and championships on Grand Prix level. Ugh. [Dressage Riders Want Top Hats Again]

Ready to transform your horse’s topline this winter? Start with the basics: nutrition. After that we look at their musculoskeletal  system, and inspect your saddle fit, and maybe some chiropractic work to get a good base. When you’re all sorted there, then you can go about your training, using specific techniques to build good core strength, and work on the proper muscles that will carry you through to a great topline. [Horse Topline Building]

Fly fences: either you love them or you hate them. Cross-country fly fences can either be the easiest cross-country jumps or the most dangerous. They are fences that a horse will jump seamlessly from his galloping stride. Fly fences are at all levels of eventing. They are usually set on even terrain—the takeoff and landing are at the same level—but they can also be set on slight uphill or downhill terrain with a clear approach. Learn how to take on fly fences like a master from Bonnie Mosser in this article. [How To Fly Fences]

Gotta love a good ride of the day:

Photo via Ariat Equestrian FB.

Yesterday I showed two young enthusiasts how to clip the winter hair off a horse, and they were absolutely fascinated. They helped me brush the tiny hairs off the clipped horse, and swept up the tons of hair on the ground in a very fastidious manner. Then the youngest child asked me what it would be like if she was covered in fur like a horse, and her sister replied that she would be a werewolf. And I was standing there, absolutely covered in horse hair, looking like a chestnut werewolf.

Major International Events:

Les 5 Etoiles de Pau CCI5*: Website, Entries, Start Times & Results, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Chattahoochee Hills H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

FEH & YEH Last Chance Qualifier and West Coast Championship: [Website] [Entry Status and Times] [Live Scores]

Grand Oaks H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Holly Hill H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Waredaca Classic Three-Day Event & H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status]

Windermere Run H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status and Times] [Live Scores]

News From Around the Globe:

Ariat Equestrian has teamed up with the Compton Cowboys to help more inner city youth find access to horses. The equestrian brand has been partnered with the Compton Junior Equestrians for ten years, so when the opportunity came up to partner with the Compton Cowboys for a specialized line of products, Ariat jumped at the chance. Special merchandise is available while supplies last, and you are also able to donate alongside Ariat directly to the CC. [Compton Cowboys & Ariat]

Your horse’s bodywork specialist knows more than you think. Not only do they know what kind of work your horse has been doing based on how their body is responding, but they know if you’ve been doing your groundwork, and if your horse respects you as the leader. They can tell how your tack fits (or doesn’t) and they know how you are crooked as a rider. Now, they may not share all this info, but they sure do know. [Horses Tell No Lies: 8 Observations from an Equine Body Worker]

Ready for some YEH and FEH fast facts?? On the west coast, we have 25 entries in the 4 & 5 year old YEH classes, over double last years entries. The FEH class has 18 entries, with four-year-olds, three-year-olds, two-year-olds, and yearlings all taking part. This impressive list of entrants includes prior winners and competitors retuning to the next level up after a year that was chaotic to say the least. [Fast Facts: West Coast FEH/YEH Championships]

Hot on Horse Nation: Just 20 Black & White Photos to Make Your Day

Ermagerd the new turf course at Fair Hill!

Dog Halloween at Virginia Horse Trials! Photo via VHT FB.

Are you heading to the Virginia Horse Trials next week? Bringing your dog? Pack a costume! It’s time to have a little fun by participating in their “Socially Distant” Halloween Doggie Costume Contest at VHT International! Where? The Virginia Horse Center Coliseum When? Saturday, Oct 31 at 6:30 pm. A panel of 3 judges will award prizes for the “Cutest”, “Most Creative”, and “Best Dog and Owner Theme” costumes. Don’t disappoint us EN fans!

Major International Events:

Les 5 Etoiles de Pau CCI5*: Website, Entries, Start Times & Results, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Chattahoochee Hills H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

FEH & YEH Last Chance Qualifier and West Coast Championship: [Website] [Entry Status and Times]

Grand Oaks H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Holly Hill H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Waredaca Classic Three-Day Event & H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status]

Windermere Run H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status and Times]

News From Around the Globe:

The USEA has announced the creation of an Interscholastic Eventing League for 2021. The IEL was created for USEA junior members who are in the 7th through 12th grades, as a pipeline towards intercollegiate riding teams after high school. The mission of the IEL is to bring together junior riders with a common interest and provide a supportive community through which students can continue to pursue their riding interests. This program will help provide a pathway for those riders who seek to be part of a collegiate eventing program as they graduate high school. [Introduction of IEL for Junior USEA Members]

Ahesahmahk Dahn has been selected to receive the 2020 Joe Kelly Maryland Million Unsung Hero Award. Presented annually by the Board of Directors of the Maryland Million Ltd., this award honors the memory of Joe Kelly and celebrates important characteristics that are valuable but often unrewarded. It recognizes honesty, hard work and humility – qualities which serve as inspiration to others. Dahn, a former Baltimore city elementary school teacher and service member in the U.S. Army, founded City Ranch Inc. in 2007 to introduce the children of Baltimore to horses by providing accessible and affordable horseback riding. Its creation inspired by his own love of horses and fueled by the loss of his nephew, the non-profit equestrian program and its herd of nearly 20 horses occupy a 29-acre farm in Windsor Mill, Md. [Maryland Million Unsung Hero Award to Ahesahmahk Dahn]

It’s truly and thoroughly clipping season, which means hairy horses and people wearing rain suits inside. If you’re diving into clipping your horse or others this year, make sure you read the first and only clipping guide you’ll ever need: this one from Emma Ford. With all the details on how to get your lines right, avoid ruining your clippers, and keep your horse looking fresh, you’ll never wonder again how to clip properly. [How To Body Clip with Emma Ford]

Francis Whittington’s team said goodbye to the 5* horse Event this week, after he suffered catastrophic neck damage that couldn’t be healed within reason for his comfort. Francis produced the 11-year-old KWPN gelding from the lower levels all the way to jumping around Burghley last year, and he will be greatly missed from the yard. To think he was just beginning his career at the top levels is an even greater sadness. Our thoughts are with their team. [RIP Evento]

One more headline to get your Thursday off and running … [In Chile, 25 Rare Chinchillas Are Sitting on Top of 3.5 Million Ounces of Gold: Can a mining company safely move them?]

Listen: Equiratings Pau Preview Show

Watch: A little old but still a great video about City Ranch in Baltimore, Maryland.

Will Coleman works on his chalk artistry while Team Rebecca’s Unlimited, leader of the CCI2*-L dressage, looks beautiful for the jogs at Midsouth. Photo via WCE FB.

One day, I’ll make it to Midsouth for their three-day event. There is something magical about Kentucky in October, it’s the most beautiful season (other than April, of course), and to cap off a season by galloping across those hallowed grounds would be such fun. Maybe next year! After an actual season of competition! Check out our recap of the FEI dressage with a beautiful jog gallery by JJ Sillman here.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event & Team Challenge: [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Hunt Club Farms H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Pine Hill Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Tryon Riding & Hunt Club “Morris the Horse” H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Major International Events:

FEI WBFSH Eventing World Breeding Championship for Young Horses – Mondial du Lion: [Website] [Start List/Live Scores]

News From Around the Globe:

Ready to make your barn greener? Between bags of shavings and bags of grain, even a small barn has a huge amount of plastic waste. My barn has a recycling bin as well as a trash bin, and it fills up fast and all get out. Figuring out ways to re-use common items that we all have is just one little step you can do to reduce your carbon footprint in the barn. [Reduce, Reuse, Recycle In The Barn]

Is your horse feeling unexpectedly sluggish? Determining the cause of this can be fraught with confusion, as you do blood tests and change feed and experiment with different approaches to your workload. This article outlines some of the major causes for horses seeming a little less enthused about their jobs, and might help you in narrowing down the cause. [5 Reasons Why Your Horse Is Lacking Energy]

Ah dressage, how do we scientifically figure you out? The ideal dressage horse has supple and relaxed movements, with a pronounced beat. He’s free from resistance and works under light, even, and elastic contact from the rider, with a level of “thoroughness” with the horse functioning in one piece. His steps give the impression that he springs off the ground, and he has energy that is created and contained, but without resistance. But this doesn’t sound very objective, does it? How do we crack the code in terms of equine biomechanics? [Exploring the Science Behind Dressage]

Video: Well if this isn’t a gem of a flashback…

Fair Hill Five Star Team assemble! Photo via Maryland Five Star Twitter.

And just like that, it’s clipping season. Last week I didn’t have any horses to clip, and all of a sudden I have at least one horse to clip every day. They all went from reasonably hairy to so furry they can barely function in the snap of a finger. It’s ok, I’ve got some excellent audiobooks ready to go, and fresh blades in my bag. But, seriously, please don’t send me any more horses to clip, I’ll be drowning in hair.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event & Team Challenge: [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Hunt Club Farms H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Pine Hill Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Tryon Riding & Hunt Club “Morris the Horse” H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Major International Events:

FEI WBFSH Eventing World Breeding Championship for Young Horses – Mondial du Lion: [Website] [Start List/Live Scores]

News From Around the Globe:

While we watch Le Lion unfold this week, we will miss seeing American riders on the entry list. Since 2015, he Holekamp/Turner Grant has awarded significant funds that provide a USEA Young Event Horse graduate the opportunity to represent the United States in the 7-year-old Championship at Mondial du Lion in France. However, due to COVID-19 and the complications with the 2020 competition season, the Holekamp/Turner grant will not be utilized in 2020. The current funds for the grant remain and the USEA looks forward to awarding the grant in 2021 and 2022. [Notes Regarding the Holekamp/Turner Grant]

This week, the best six- and seven-year-olds in eventing from around the world converge on Le Lion d’Angers in France to fight it out for the prestigious young horse World Championship titles. This competition is well known for predicting future stars, and has done for many years past. Just a few names you might recognize like Galan de Sauvagere, some horse called Primmore’s Pride, Oslo, a little mare named FischerRocana FST, and a chestnut named Mr Medicott were all winners at Le Lion, and I feel like they had ok careers. [9 Previous Winners at Le Lion]

Skin crud got you down? Tis the season for mud and leg scud, and frustrated grooms worldwide. Luckily, we’ve got some tricks you might not have heard of from top professional grooms across the world. Sheeps wool clipped freshly off a sheep? If you’ve got it handy, it works great. [Mud Fever, Scratches Be Gone]

It’s spooky season! But hopefully not spooking season! It’s time to get your horse out on the trails for some leisurely hacks, but sometimes that’s easier said than done. Don’t go galivanting around without knowing the trails, and maybe taking some friends with you too. [Spooky Season Trail Tips]

When you’re so tired you nap while being tacked. Photo by Kate Samuels.

When you move a baby horse into a much larger field, the rules dictate that you must take advantage of their extra sleepy state and go on hacks with them and exercise their brains. Bentley (above) has never been in more than a paddock, and I turned him out with two energetic thoroughbreds in a big old field, and he’s doing more exercise at night than he’s used to. Don’t worry, he catches some shut eye while being tacked up, and passes out all day.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Woodside International H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Live Scores]

Maryland H.T. at Loch Moy Farms: [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer] [Live Scores]

Ocala Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Live Scores]

Radnor Hunt H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Show Photographer] [Volunteer] [Live Scores]

St. John’s H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times/Live Scores]

War Horse Event Series H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer] [Live Scores]

Glenarden Farm H.T.: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

News From Around the Globe:

In memory of Zara Buren, riders at Glenarden Farm Horse Trials are asked to wear burgundy while competing this weekend, as well as using the hashtags #RideForZara and #RememberingZara. The event has a downloadable #RideForZara medical armband insert, and the Canadian Young Rider team will be selling #RideForZara bracelets at the event. You can find the downloadable insert on their website. [Glenarden Farm HT]

International dressage judge Sue Hobson from Pahiatua, was just elected as president of Equestrian Sport New Zealand. The position covers all disciplines under the Equestrian Federation: Eventing, Showjumping, Endurance and Dressage – which are all Olympic sports. Sue has had international experience as both an FEI 4* dressage judge and also has been a rider on transtasman teams in Australia at PSG and Grand Prix level. She has also competed in World Dressage Challenges over the years in New Zealand and has been on the New Zealand team. [Sue Hobson: President of ESNZ]

October is officially Maryland Horse Month! Governor Larry Hogan proclaimed October “Maryland Horse Month” in order to recognize the contributions made by the horse industry to the state. The COVID-19 pandemic postponed the Preakness Stakes from May 16 to Oct. 3. Jim McKay Maryland Million Day will take place at Laurel Park Oct. 24. The inaugural Maryland 5 Star eventing competition at Fair Hill International was set to take place in 2020, but that has been postponed to Oct. 14-17, 2021. Despite it’s small size, Maryland is a powerhouse in equestrian events, and the benefits of the horse to the state are innumerable. [Maryland Horse Month]

You’ve watched Schitt’s Creek, right? Ok good. (If you haven’t WHY ARE YOU STILL HERE GO WATCH IT). Wondering if your horse is a David or a Moira? Maybe a Roland? We’ve got you covered. Take this short quiz and find out which Schitt’s Creek character most embodies your horse. [Test Your Horse]

Have you hugged your horse today? Photo via Kelly Jarvis.

This week I did a big treat-yo-self (and treat-yo-horses) and bought a PEMF machine. Anybody who knows me knows that I’m also a huge penny pincher, so it’s a big deal for me to actually buy a rather expensive machine. However, after trying it on myself for nerve damage in my neck, and using it for a few years with the horses, I decided to jump in. After all, 2020, right?? Why not.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Woodside International H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Maryland H.T. at Loch Moy Farms: [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

Ocala Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Radnor Hunt H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Show Photographer] [Volunteer]

St. John’s H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status]

War Horse Event Series H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

News From Around the Globe:

Tickets for the 2021 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™and the $225,000 Kentucky CSI3* Invitational Grand Prix presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute will go on sale in January 2021. Equestrian Events Inc. (EEI), which produces both world-class events, is delaying the opening of ticket sales because of remaining uncertainties related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The events are scheduled to return to the Kentucky Horse Park on April 22-25, 2021, featuring elite horses and riders from across the nation and around the world. More information on the exact date when tickets will be available can be found on the Kentucky Three Day Event website.

The USEA is seeking a volunteer to serve as the USEA Young Rider Committee Chair/National Coordinator. The position leads the 10 USEA Young Rider Area Coordinators at the national level and works directly with respective USEA and USEF personnel. This person should have strong communication skills and organizational skills. They will be responsible for scheduling regular meetings for the Young Rider Area Coordinators, creating agendas for meetings, sharing information and deadlines with Coordinators, coordinating for Young Rider Championships, and bringing forward miscellaneous information from the USEA and USEF regarding the Young Rider program and its series or championships. Sound like you? Apply today! [Apply to be the Young Rider Committee Chair]

COVID-19 precautions for USEF competitions is evolving as we continue the fall season, and we must stay vigilant in order to keep our competitions safe and running. Competitors who test positive for COVID-19 within 14 days of attending a competition must notify the competition organizers, the USEF, as well as their local public health authorities. Guidelines for social distancing at competitions have also been updated, and of course, we must be strict about our use of face masks. [USEF COVID-19 Updates]

Despite a postponed wedding (due to be held in November) and Tokyo dreams on hold, 2020 isn’t all bad for eventing’s newest power couple Jesse Campbell and Georgie Strang. “We are still quietly hopeful that Tokyo is on the cards. We will continue to train that way and look towards it” says Jesse. “As for the wedding,” Georgie goes on, “well we are just trying to rearrange and make a plan within the covid guidelines. It has been disappointing — but it’s not the worst thing. We’re now onto plan F but are determined to make it happen!” One thing they are celebrating is a new partnership as part of the Shires Equestrian Sponsored Riders Team.

Nick Skelton’s 2016 Rio Olympics gold medal-winning hero Big Star has been spotted having a pop at home under the show jumper’s daughter-in-law, Bridget Andrews, who is married to his jockey son Harry Skelton. The 17-year-old stallion son of Quick Star has returned to Nick’s Warwickshire stables following his duties at stud. Retired from competition, but still having fun, this video of Big Star will bring a smile to your face. [Big Star Pumped about Jumping Again]

Featured Video:

Hello from Morven Park! Photo courtesy of
Joanna Yeomans.

Morven Park Horse Trials holds many fond memories for me over the years, and I’ve competed there almost every year since I began eventing all those years ago with a pony and a dream. This year I’ll be missing it, but luckily we have live coverage here on EN so you can keep up with all the action at all the levels. Stay tuned!

U.S. Weekend Preview

Morven Park Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Show Photographer] [Online Program] [Volunteer] [Live Scores]

Genesee Valley Riding and Driving Club Spring H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Heritage Park H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks: [Website] [Entry Status] [Show Photographer] [Volunteer] [Live Scores]

Poplar Place Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Show Photographer] [Volunteer] [Live Scores]

Spokane Sport Horse Sixth Annual Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Show Photographer] [Volunteer]

WindRidge Farm Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

News From Around the Globe:

Horse & Country is partnering with the USEF to bring you even more live streaming of competitions worldwide. Now you’ll be able to enjoy premium content from H&C with your USEF membership, and see even more events on livestream! With spectating limited this year (and maybe next) it’s really great for all of us at home to be able to keep up with all the action. And no extra membership fees! [H&C Partners with USEF]

The Retired Racehorse Project is back again with an amazing online auction! To raise money for the Thoroughbred Makeover, which next year will be a super makeover featuring both 2020 horses and 2021 horses, you’ll find some truly sweet goods available for the next 8 days. Offering a variety of options ranging from coveted racing memorabilia, unique gifts, original art, handcrafted goods, quality services, and one of a kind experiences. [RRP Online Silent Auction]

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and SmartPak is encouraging riders to help them give back. For the second year in a row, they’ve partnered with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and giving back a portion of their sales on exclusive pink-ribbon items. With limited edition Piper Knit Breeches and SmartPak saddle pads, you too can go pink in style and show your support! With their most comfortable and popular styles featuring pink ribbon accents, you’ll be sure to get a great product while also supporting a great cause. [SmartPak Goes Pink]

Kristian Beverly speaks to being actively anti-racist in the horse world. “My existence is not a difference of opinions. A difference of opinion is whether you like glazed or jelly donuts. Not if a person deserves humanity.” [All Parts of Me]

Have you experienced level-shaming? It’s all too common for some of us to casually mention our first “real” event horse, and simply mean our first upper level horse. But within that, we are suggesting that horses or riders that don’t compete at the upper levels are somehow worth less, and this is simply ridiculous. A solid horse that can throw down three good phases at Training level with an amateur rider is just as real as any five-star competitor on the international scale. [What is “Real”?]

Video: A real flashback to Morven 2008!

Horses are so majestic! Photo by Kate Samuels.

We’ve had a brisk fall week here in Virginia, and so accordingly, some of my horses are acting like fools. Notably, and perhaps not surprisingly, my 19-year-old retired Advanced horse is snorting and passaging in from the field every morning, despite having already grown plenty of coat to handle 50 degrees overnight. The otherwise quiet horses seem to have taken up awkward horse ballet, as evidenced above. Sweater weather is my favorite, and seems like they’re enjoying it as well.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Morven Park Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Show Photographer] [Volunteer]

Genesee Valley Riding and Driving Club Spring H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Heritage Park H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks: [Website] [Entry Status] [Show Photographer] [Volunteer]

Poplar Place Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Show Photographer] [Volunteer]

Spokane Sport Horse Sixth Annual Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Show Photographer] [Volunteer]

WindRidge Farm Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status]

News From Around the Globe:

Mare lovers, rejoice! Science has now come to your aid in your long battle for equine gender equality, concluding that mares are no more difficult than geldings. Studying 1,200 horses, they found less than a 5% difference in responses between mares and geldings both on the ground and under saddle. Debunking stereotypes about equine genders improves horse welfare, so don’t cross a mare off your list! [Mares Aren’t More Difficult]

Looking to squeeze one more recognized horse trial into your 2020 show schedule? You’re in luck! Silverwood Farm in Camp Lake, WI has added an October 17 horse trial and entries are being accepted now through the date of the event. Check out the details here. 

In 2008, the YEH program was just in it’s infancy, but many of those first horses went on to fulfill their upper level potential. With 36 horses qualified for the championships, and only 15 that went on to compete that year, the program was starting to get some interest from riders in the US. The USEA looks back on ten of those horses that were incredibly successful, including Who’s A Star, El Cid, Simba, Crimson Tide, Airlington, Fleeceworks Fernhill, Picante, Chiron, Ballyquinn, and Rave Review. [2008 YEH Grad Class]

The recent and tragic death of cherished young eventer, Zara Buren, has touched so many lives, especially those who knew her and rode with her at events in Ontario. She was a well-liked and respected competitor, and a talented rider with a bright equestrian future ahead. The Buren Family, with the Ontario Eventing Association, is honored to announce a new award in Zara’s memory: The Zara Buren Memorial Award will be conferred annually to an Ontario rider, preferably 15 years of age or under, who has competed at the Training Level or below, and who exhibits a passion for eventing as well as commitment to their horse. [Zara Buren Memorial Award]

A little Morven flashback to get you in the mood for this weekend:

When your vest zipper breaks during cross country schooling. Photo via Humans of Eventing Facebook.

If you’re going to event, you better pack a sense of humor, and the Humans of Eventing Facebook page never fails to make us laugh. From overheard wry comments to fun and funny photos, it’s a great reminder to never take ourselves too seriously.

Holiday: National Brave Day

U.S. Weekend Preview:

The Event at Archer: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Show Photographer]

ESDCTA H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Fleur de Leap H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Show Photographer]

The Event at Isaacks Ranch: [Website] [Entry Status]

Larkin Hill H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Show Photographer]

The Middleburg H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Stable View Oktoberfest: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

News From Around the Globe:

Ready for some fast facts about Stable View? In its fifth year, they’re running a CCI4*-S, a CCI3*-S and a CCI2*-S, as well as Beginner Novice through Intermediate level horse trials. With a whopping 380 entries, it’s a positively packed weekend. Lots of previous winners are returning this year, some with different jockeys at different levels, so it’s definitely a fun event to watch unfold. [Stable View Fast Facts]

Applications are open for the 2020 Adequan USEF Futures Team Challenge at Galway Downs International for both the CCI3*-L and the CCI4*-L in Temecula, CA. The Futures Team Challenge, part of USEF’s Eventing Pathway Program, was established in 2019 to prepare future senior team athletes by providing an opportunity to experience competing as part of a team and working with the U.S. team coaches. All U.S. eventing athletes are invited to apply. [Apply for the Futures Team Challenge]

In terms of the weirdest but most wonderful thing you’ll click on this week, I present the Pandemic Performance Panorama online show, and more specifically, the Bad Performance class. I honestly don’t even know how to describe what’s going on here, but it made me giggle. [Bad Performance Class]

Money and horses go together like wine and cheese, but somehow we don’t like to talk about it. But opening the door to talking about the financial side of how different riders make it work helps us all see the real side of horse ownership. In this interview, we learn how an ER nurse is keeping her equestrian dream alive. [ER Nurse Navigates Horse Ownership]

Share the love with EEI! Due to the pandemic, 2020 has been a difficult year for the non-profit Equestrian Events, Inc. With the cancellation of the Kentucky Three-Day Event and the AEC, EEI has suffered a tremendous loss. The success of EEI’s previous events does not translate into deep pockets since the organization either re-invests directly into their events or donates to other charities. In a year with virtually no income, EEI is looking for ways to overcome these financial challenges. You can help by making a donation or shopping LRK3DE merchandise.

We’ll miss you, Julian! Julian Seaman has been an effervescent presence at Badminton Horse Trials as Media Manager for the past 18 years — you’re an true EN legend, Julian! Julian’s successor will be Becky Elvin, who has been part of Julian’s team for some 10 years and our team looks forward to working with her in 2021. [Badminton Horse Trials Appoint New Media Manager]

Video: Relive some 2018 Stable View action. Fan favorites Elisa Wallace and Simply Priceless were entered in the CCI4*-S for this weekend but sadly withdrew before dressage. Elisa still has a busy weekend with two horses in the CCI2*-S, Munson Slew and Sharp Decision, and one horse in the CCI3*-S, Let It Be Lee. Best of luck!

The long grass workout. Photo by Merle-Smith Sporthorses.

The weather this week has been everything that Virginian’s dream about for long sweltering summer months, and then some. 40’s at night, 70’s in the day, what more could a girl ask for? I’m a skeptic though, so I don’t trust it and I’m sure it means some kind of horrible trick coming in October.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

The Event at Archer: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Show Photographer]

ESDCTA H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Fleur de Leap H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Show Photographer]

The Event at Isaacks Ranch: [Website] [Entry Status]

Larkin Hill H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Show Photographer]

The Middleburg H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Stable View Oktoberfest: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

News From Around the Globe:

While the events of 2020 have undoubtedly brought challenge and heartache for a large number of people, lockdown has also allowed many of us to press a pause button on our busy lives, focus on specific goals and spend more time with our families and horses. Australian eventer Andrew Hoy and is no different, as he shares his lockdown experience and ponders his plans for the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games. [Andrew Hoy Plans for 2021]

Get ready for the FEH East Coast Championships this coming weekend at Loch Moy Farm. On the East Coast, there are 50 total entries: 10 in the yearling class, 12 in the 2-year-old class, 24 in the 3-year-old, and four in the 4-year-old class. With several winners from last year returning for the next class up, it’s sure to be an exciting weekend for US event horse breeding. [FEH Fast Facts]

Best of Blogs: Back From the Brink: Lauren Nethery Won’t Take No For an Answer

In April of this year, Rick Wallace’s Ultimate Victory had an accident that no horse owner wants to hear. The 17-year-old Thoroughbred gelding had pulled back on the cross ties, and one had snapped back into his eye, destroying it almost completely. Within two hours, the horse had surgery to remove the eye, but the recovery was the real question. [One Horse’s Incredible Comeback]

I know you want more pictures from Burnham Market, don’t even try to deny it. As the only CCI4*-L in the UK for all of 2020, the best of the best were out and about, and you’ll want to make sure you stalk all of them. [14 World’s Best Eventers at Burnham]

 

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🍰With ‘The Great British Bake Off’ contestants recently announced, we were delighted to receive these photos from a young Eventing fan who entered a competition at her school to bake and decorate a cake to reflect a sporting event they were missing during 2020. 🐴Mimi (aged 11) chose to base her bake on Badminton Horse Trials because it is her favourite weekend of the year and it is her ambition to compete here in the future. She has been a regular Badminton visitor since she was 3. 😋There are 3 sections reflecting each discipline; apparently cross country tasted the best! For the creative fans amongst you all, there will be a chance to get inventive with Badminton in mind in the coming months… #greatbritishbakeoff #GBBO #badmintonhorsetrials

A post shared by Badminton Horse Trials (@bhorsetrials) on Sep 16, 2020 at 11:00am PDT

This week has been a rough one emotionally for the eventing community. I am still hopeful that we can improve with kindness and empathy towards all sides, and remember that we are all part of a big family that cares about one another. Let me repeat that, we care. We care a lot. That’s all for today.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Apple Knoll Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status]

Meadowcreek Park Fall Social Event: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Sundance Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Twin Rivers Fall International: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

News From Around the Globe:

EN has sadly had some of its sponsors drop off in the fall-out of the Unionville venue’s cancellation. In response, we will be donating these vacated spaces to organizations that are doing good work in the equestrian world. Have a suggestion? Please send it to [email protected].

Even after earning her bachelor of science in microbiology from the University of Vermont, Ariel Grald wasn’t sure that the normal 9-5 life was for her. So she packed her bags and moved to Southern Pines to pursue her dreams of upper level eventing, and the rest is history. Her story is definitely worth reading. [Ariel Grald: Eventing to the Top]

Serious questions around the use of nosebands have been raised by the findings of a new study, in which head x-rays revealed bone lesions on the nasal bones and lower jaws of horses. The bony changes — thickening or thinning — were identified at the site typically subjected to pressure from restrictive nosebands. The causes of the lesions seen at the site of nosebands merit further investigation, they said, because inadvertently damaging the bones of horses as part of equitation is difficult to justify on ethical grounds. [Bone Damage in Horses at Site of Noseband]

After a group of children were unable to return to Myanmar to continue their education, The Good Shepherd Centre in Phuket Town set up a program of support. They were, and are still, seeking the support of additional volunteers to help teach the children basic English, simple computer skills, maths, art and craft etc for just an hour a week. Red Bamboo stepped in to offer a complimentary Beginners Riding Class to all the students and to raise awareness of the plight of the students. [Local Horse Riding School Helping Forgotten Children]

Want to win some FLAIR strips? Today is your last chance! We’re giving away two six-packs to a lucky winner this week. All you need to do to enter is submit a photo of your favorite FLAIR strip color – details can be found here.

Best of Blogs: Priced Out: Thoughts On Money, Class, and Horses

Reliving his racehorse days. Photo by Kate Samuels.

Friends, I don’t really have a cute story to tell here today. All I wish during this time of turmoil is that everyone reflects a little on kindness and empathy, and trying to put that out into the world instead of negativity and hatred. That’s all.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Apple Knoll Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status]

Meadowcreek Park Fall Social Event: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Sundance Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Twin Rivers Fall International: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

News From Around the Globe:

Buying your unicorn can be simultaneously exciting and terrifying. However, going into it with some firm rules will result in a better match, no matter where you’re shopping. 1: look for what you NEED, and know what you’re willing to compromise on. 2: be open to new knowledge, and possibilities that you didn’t expect. [Buying a Unicorn]

Want to win some FLAIR strips? We’re giving away two six-packs to a lucky winner this week. All you need to do to enter is submit a photo of your favorite FLAIR strip color – details can be found here.

Best of Blogs: Oregon is On Fire

As fires threaten huge swaths of the Pacific Northwest, many equestrians in northern Oregon are facing evacuation. On Sept. 7, DevonWood Equestrian Centre, a dressage barn and competition venue in Sherwood, Oregon, opened its doors for those fleeing the fires. Over the course of a week, the venue has housed more than 300 evacuated animals. [DevonWood Opens Doors to Farm Animals]

Whoopsie!

Just doing some casual modeling in the river. Photo by Kate Samuels.

In case you’re ever wondering, I highly recommend having a river on your property, it sure makes training event horses a lot easier. Plus, after a hard workout in the ring on a summer day, there isn’t anything they like better than going into the river and doing lots of aggressive splashing. 10/10 recommend.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC: [Website][Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

CDCTA Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Live Scores]

Flora Lea Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Live Scores]

Flying Cross Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Live Scores]

GMHA Summer H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Ocala Summer H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times]

Otter Creek Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Live Scores]

The Event at Skyline: [Website] [Entries] [Live Scores]

Stone Gate Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

News From Around the Globe:

Congratulations to Jessie O., the randomly drawn winner of our latest Fab Freebie! Jessie will take home a snazzy new pair of Amerigo Safety Stirrups. Enjoy!

With the fastest XC time at Great Meadows CCI4*, it’s time to know more about Leamore Master Plan. Known around the barn as Simon, Ariel Grald’s five-star mount has been with her since a very young age, and placed 12th and 10th at Kentucky and Burghley last year, respectively. If you’re feeling generous, be sure to send him Mrs Pasture’s Cookies, as he lives to eat them. [USEA Horse of the Month: Leamore Master Plan]

Would you like to get your hands on Amerigo’s new safety stirrups? Our friends at World Equestrian Brands are giving a pair away FREE. The best part? They come in an array of colors, perfect for eventers. The raffle ends tonight at midnight. [Fab Freebie: Win a Pair of Amerigo’s New Safety Stirrups]

Best of Blogs: Battling Anxiety & Fear 

How has COVID 19 changed the face of horse sales? Making a big investment in a horse without being able to travel and see it in person, or even ride it, is obviously kinda scary. For sellers, it’s important to be super transparent, and maybe make videos of more normal stuff like behavior around the barn in addition to riding videos. Courtney Cooper weighs in on how she’s been navigating sales this year. [COVID 19 & Horse Sales]

Andrew Hoy getting his exercise!

My personal cardio fitness training is sorted for today! ✅ 🤣#GirlsandPonies #Ponylove #ProudDaddy pic.twitter.com/7mZUmacBBN

— Andrew Hoy (@HoyEventing) September 9, 2020

An old man teaching a young whippersnapper. Photo by Kate Samuels.

Yesterday I used my most experienced 19-year-old champion, Nyls, to help me teach a young gelding about adventures. I’m so lucky to have literally thousands of acres to use for my hacking, and rivers, dirt roads, cows, people on bikes, dogs, and all sorts of other stuff for them to learn about. A great way to get going with that is ponying, so after a few lessons on ground work with a rope halter, off we went! I took them across the river and around one very large field, and the baby horse had his mind blown, but was very brave!

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC: [Website][Entries] [Ride Times]

CDCTA Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

Flora Lea Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

Flying Cross Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

GMHA Summer H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times]

Ocala Summer H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times]

Otter Creek Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

The Event at Skyline: [Website] [Entries]

Stone Gate Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

News From Around the Globe:

Deonte Sewell just landed a job at Phillip Dutton’s barn, and he’s ready to show the world just how far he can go. Just a few years ago, Deonte didn’t even know that black riders could be upper level eventers, until he saw Randy Ward competing at Fair Hill. After that, he decided to give his dreams of the Olympics in this sport free rein. His story is nothing short of inspiring. [Pursuing Greater Representation in Eventing]

Karen O’Connor, the legend, the myth, the woman. Thoughts and reflections on a storied career, how she got her start, the struggles of breaking into the elite group of competitors in the early ages of Eventing, and her regrets from a life heartily lived. [KOC: Reflections & Regrets of an Eventing Superstar]

With so many events cancelled this year, it’s nice to see that the Waredaca Three Day Event is still on the calendar. One of the last remaining long format competitions, they boast Preliminary, Training, and Novice three day events with all the old bells and whistles. Along with tons of education along the way, you’ll get to experience roads and tracks, and steeplechase, finally! Conditioning for this competition is different though, and you’ll need to plan accordingly if you want to go. [Training Tips for a Long Format Event]

Would you like to get your hands on Amerigo’s new safety stirrups? Our friends at World Equestrian Brands are giving a pair away FREE. The best part? They come in an array of colors, perfect for eventers. The raffle ends Friday, September 11th at midnight. [Fab Freebie: Win a Pair of Amerigo’s New Safety Stirrups]

In times like these, it’s good to know that there is certainty somewhere. You’ll never have to worry about protecting your horse with Taylor Harris Insurance Services on your side. They take care of many of the top level event horses you see galloping around cross country, and they know exactly how to soothe your fears when it comes to protecting your best friend. [Request a Quote]

I love a good inside tour!

Welcome to Dassett Eventing!

We hope you all enjoy this little sneak peek into life behind the doors of DEHQ! pic.twitter.com/dnmS3Z9d92

— Dassett Eventing (@DassettEventing) September 8, 2020

Throwback to top eventer @DuttonEventing early days with the Nyngan Pony Club in Australia. Can you find our Olympian in this lineup? All correct answers will be entered to win a free book from TSB! Photo from Riding for the Team from @USETFoundation edited by @NancyJaffer pic.twitter.com/HTY1HxG1l9

— HorseandRiderBooks (@TSBbooks) September 3, 2020

Can you guess which one is P Dutty in this photo above? Click on the link to submit your answer and enter to win a book! Better yet, go get your own copy of Riding For The Team, from Trafalgar Square Books and the United States Equestrian Team Foundation and edited by Nancy Jaffer — highly recommend. (And be sure to read this amazing excerpt from Boyd Martin’s contribution, “You Weren’t Really on Him That Long,” on EN here.)

U.S. Weekend Preview

Bucks County Horse Park H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

Caber Farm September H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Entries/Times]

Chardon Valley H.T.: [Website]

Copper Meadows H.T.: [Website] [Entries/Times]

Course Brook H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

Five Points H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Live Scoring]

News From Around the Globe:

For sporthorses, we might as well say “no gut health, no horse” for all the power it holds over their performances. Currently, new gene technology is driving research at an intense rate, providing new insights into the equine microbial community (1) and providing both trainer and the vet with a powerful and accurate analytical tool to improve health and manage disease.  [Differences Between Healthy & Unhealthy Equine Gut Biome]

Walking your show-jump course accurately is half the battle. Riding it is another matter, but going in with a proper plan of attack, and viewing all your turns, lines, and distances correctly is deeply important to your clear round. [Video: How To Walk Showjumping Courses]

Is the cost of outfits for competition excluding more riders? The USEA has already taken measures to make polo shirts legal for competition in all phases through Training level, inviting more riders from the unrecognized circuits to feel welcome. Our sport is expensive enough, do we really need strict dress codes? [Is Our Equestrian Dress Code Pricing Out Riders?]

Tomorrow, Greg Harbut gets to watch his horse run in America’s most famous race. What sets him apart is that he is one of very few black racehorse owners in one of the whitest sports in the country. His great grandfather groomed Man O’War, and his grandfather bred and owned a horse in the 1962 Derby, but Greg still faces racism in 2020 on the backside of the track. [Black History in Racing]

Best of Blogs: A Letter To Me, Emma Ford

Video: 

Well this takes cross country to a whole new level. Photo via Hygain USA.

It’s Burghley week!!! Or, it would have been, so it still is in my mind. There are many memories and celebrations online, including an entire virtual Burghley vendor village, and videos of years past. I’ve only been once, but it was a magical experience that I highly recommend to anybody in the horse world.

Click here to learn more about Burghley’s 2020 virtual programming.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Bucks County Horse Park H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

Caber Farm September H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Entries/Times]

Chardon Valley H.T.: [Website]

Copper Meadows H.T.: [Website] [Entries/Times]

Course Brook H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

Five Points H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T.: [Website] [Entries]

News From Around the Globe:

With good management and good genetics, it’s not that uncommon to see horses competing well into their late teens these days. Elisa Wallace’s top horse Simply Priceless is 19 years old, and she says he’s simply Benjamin Button. Knowing how to keep your horse sound and happy through their long careers is a skill, and some top riders share how they are making it work. [Top Horses As Senior Citizens]

Sally Ike stepped down yesterday as managing director of the U.S. Equestrian Federation’s Licensed Officials committee, but don’t think for a minute that she is just retiring. A multi-faceted pillar of the equestrian community, she will become a consultant for the USEF as an independent contractor. Sally, it’s not goodbye, it’s just see you later! [Sally Ike Retires from USEF]

New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program canceled its 2020 dressage and combined test event that was slated to be held at the Kentucky Horse Park on October 3. The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.) has followed suit, cancelling its Dressage and Combined Test Championships on Oct. 4. Horses qualified and declared by the August 3 deadline for the 2020 championships will be eligible to participate in the 2021 events. [New Vocations] [Thoroughbred Incentive Program]

Get ready for some amazing video coverage coming up with this new partnership between Horse & Country TV and US Equestrian. With more live streams of competitions across disciplines, and premium content to members, your online life just got a little better. As far as eventing goes, it looks like they’re planning to stream Les 5 Etoiles de Pau and we’ll keep you posted on any others as we hear about them. [Live Streams & Videos Galore]

The Philadelphia Urban Riding Academy is one of the country’s oldest inner city equestrian programs. The urban black cowboy has been prevalent in Philadelphia since the early 1900’s, with horse drawn wagons delivering milk, produce, mail, laundry and more. While those services have died out, the black cowboys have remained. [Concrete Cowboys of Philadelphia]

A study is focused on the health of the microbiome (hind gut) and performance of event horses. “We are currently researching this important area, in collaboration with Aberystwyth and Manchester Universities and a yard of 5* to pre novice horses, we are using the latest genomic sequencing to profile microbial communities to provide better insights into how to manage the diet/stress/temperament and energy during training and the competition season.” [Trainer Magazine]

Best of Blogs: Diapers & Dressage — Is Life Balance a Thing?

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Continuing our Rider Insight series, today we focus on the physical preparation for Land Rover Burghley.
And don't forget, it's less than 48 hours now until LRBHT Online Weekend at https://t.co/orneZW86xY#fitnessmotivation #preparetowin #burghleycelebrations pic.twitter.com/iUtHOQWSA2

— Land Rover Burghley (@LRBHT_Official) September 2, 2020