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Bec Braitling Stars in CCI4*-S Shake-up at Galway Downs International

By on Mar 29, 2025 11:30 pm -

Bec Braitling and Caravaggio II. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Spring is a time to prepare for what’s ahead and many of this week’s International Horse Trials contenders took full advantage of ideal opportunities to build confidence, confirm training and find out where they can push the edges of their horse’s performance.

Bec Braitling’s plan to “run quick here” with Caravaggio II was part of a shake-up in the CCI4*-S standings. Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z moved from 6th to 2nd and Megan McIver and Igor B kept their overnight third rank.

Prepping for a return to the Defender Kentucky CCI5-L next month, Braitling and Caravaggio stepped up from 4th after Friday’s dressage and show jumping. It helped that the overnight leaders, Tamie Smith and Kynan, took it easy timewise over Clayton Fredericks’ widely praised cross-country course.

The California-based Australian rider was thrilled with their 30.4 dressage score, though less so with an uncharacteristic rail in show jumping. European show mileage last year accelerated Braitling’s ability to “be brave with his really big stride,” she said of their final phase performance. “He sets himself up really well and I’m learning to not mess it up!” At 6:44 minutes, they were the fastest 4* finishers, incurring 13.2 time penalties.

“I get excited when I see a course I can get a lot out of,” Brailting explained. “I loved the flow. It was really good with distances that helped me with forward riding. And plenty of places to challenge me to be brave in the turns.”

The win gives Braitling 40 qualifying point for the USEF Open of Eventing, set for Morven Park in Virginia in October. “It’s definitely a big goal for this year.”

“It’s safe to say that Z blew everybody’s expectations away,” said Tommy Greengard of That’s Me Z. The 8-year-old Zangersheide has been a young horse superstar and continued that trajectory in his first Advanced level outing. “I felt like he was well prepared for the level, but you never know,” said Greengard. “He finished as well as he started.”

Of the track, the partner in Andrea Pfeiffer’s Chocolate Horse Farms acknowledged that the quantity of challenging corner lines “made me a little nervous. But once he jumped the 8AB Galway Leap/Corner so well, I had a good feeling.”

Megan McIver celebrated her one-year partnership with Igor B, a 12-year-old Dutch Warmblood. They debuted at this show last year by winning the CCI2*-S and ended their year 2nd in the CCI3*-L here in the fall. Recent work with former US eventing coach Eric Duvander has “completely revolutionized how my horses do dressage,” McIver shared. Their 30.8 dressage effort reflected Duvander’s emphasis on “thoroughness and keeping him loose and supple” to excellent effect.

The Northern California-based professional had penciled in next month’s Kentucky pending how well things went this week. “I give serious credit to Clayton (Fredericks’) design. A 4* never feels easy, but I think all the challenges were right where they should be.”

McIver plans to hit Kentucky now, as does Tamie Smith with her overnight leader Kynan. They took their time today to finish 5th. “We had to keep the cat in the bag until it’s time to let him out,” said Smith.

Sitting second overnight, Washington-based professional Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14 had the win in their sights until a heartbreaking run-out at the C element of fence 22 – the coffin combination.

CCI3*-S: Smith and Lillet 3 Light It Up

Tamie Smith and Lillet 3. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Smith went from cruising on Kynan in the 4* to crushing it with Lillet 3 in the 3*. Tommy Greengard had just 1.6 time faults with Balladeer Kilbrickens Lad, who had risen from 7th after dressage and 4th after show jumping. Erin Kellerhouse and Bon Vivant GWF held their third-place position with 5.6 time penalties.

Three seconds under the 5:33 optimal time, Smith and Lillet were the only double clear cross-country duo in this 33-horse field. “She’s amazing, so rideable and just super,” Smith raved of the 9-year-old Holsteiner. “The course was tough. There were a number of combinations that were quite strong, but it was super easy for her.”

Tommy Greengard sat second overnight with Joshuay MBF, but it was lesser-known Balladeer Kilbrickens Lad who zipped into 2nd place. The 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse came to Chocolate Horse Farm’s program less than a year ago with “severe confidence issues,” Greengard said. “He’s new to the upper levels and is just going from strength to strength.”

Greengard took a smooth, leisurely pace with Joshuay, slipping to 11th place. “Everything went exactly to plan,” said Greengard of his two 3* rides, two of the nine horses he competed week. His equine quiver included Open Preliminary Champion MBF Google.

Erin Kellerhouse and Bon Vivant GWF were “getting our mojo back on” after a bad fall last season. In his return to the 3* level, the 10-year-old Oldenburg put in one of his best dressage tests on Friday. “He was with me the whole way. He’s comfortable with this level of work and it’s nice to go into the ring being able to ride for things, rather than just manage them.”

After double-clear show jumping, Bon Vivant was cool over a cross-country course that Kellerhouse admits gave her some pause. “There were three or four hard combinations, but he didn’t care.” Five golf carts of cheering Kellerhouse fans racing alongside their route may have helped, too. “I hear them for sure and that’s been fun!”

Kellerhouse also finished 4th with Ringwood Adios Amigo, a 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse.

CCI2*-S: Smith Keeps Top Two Spots

Tamie Smith and Kareena K. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Kareena K and Solaguayre Cantata kept earning their rider Tamie Smith’s high praise. The 9-year-old Holsteiner mare and the 7-year-old Argentine Thoroughbred finished 1st and 2nd and stayed on their 23.2 and 27.4 dressage scores.

“They were both unbelievable,” said Smith. “It was the first 2* for both and it was a strong one. They answered all the questions.”

Washington-based Anni Grandia-Dodson and Mistral, a 9-year-old German Sport Horse, moved up from 11th to 3rd. “It’s our first time out for the season and our first time finishing on our dressage score at this level,” she said. “Today’s course was really inviting and a great gallop for my horse to start the season. There were lots of great questions, but it wasn’t overly technical.”

CCI1*-S – Kaylawna Smith-Cook Keeps Lead

Kaylawna Smith-Cook and Coco Chanel. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Kaylawna Smith-Cook and Coco Chanel, a 7-year-old Holsteiner, kept it flawless to finish on Friday’s 31.5 dressage effort. A new ride in the young professional’s promising string, Coco Chanel “is gorgeous and she knows it,” said Smith-Cook. The mare had some 2* experience in her native Belgium, but it was mostly the feeling she gave that sold her. “I just felt like she was my horse and that’s not a feeling I’ve had very often.”

Like her mother Tamie Smith, Smith-Cook works monthly with Australian show jumper Scott Keach. She credits him with solidifying her jumping fundamentals for the benefit of all the horses she’s bringing along. Having horses of very high quality helps, too, and Coco Chanel is in that camp.

“She has a little spook in her, and the 1* cross-country was pretty tricky today. But she handled everything just wonderfully.”

Asia Vedder and Litmanen Z, a 7-year-old Zangersheide, finished 2nd, with Megan McIver and Storm Dino, a 6-year-old Irish Sport Horse, in 3rd before cross-country.

Tomorrow’s Stars

The International Horse Trials concluded today, with Starter through Open Training divisions concluding Sunday. Saturday celebrations started shortly after the CCI4* ended as adorable pony riders, brave advanced age equestrians and everything in between took to the Grand Prix Arena for Starter division show jumping.

Raucous cheers and encouragement celebrated the common denominator across all this week’s divisions – a love for the horse and the sport eventing and its community.

CCI3*-S and CCI4*-S divisions are available on-demand for Equestrian+ subscribers. Commentators Frankie Thieriot-Stutes and Spencer Sturmey of Great Britian share their insights and expertise in all phases.

Galway Downs International H.T. (CA): [Website] [Live Stream Replays] [Scores]

Galway Downs International Horse Trials: Tamie Smith Leads 3 of 4 Divisions

By on Mar 29, 2025 1:13 am -

Tamie Smith and Kynan. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Riding a high from the latest milestone in Galway Downs’ path to hosting LA28 Olympic equestrian competition, several of the event’s 50 international competitors tried to put themselves on that same path today.

Today, the Los Angeles City Council formally approved the LA28 Organizing Committee’s proposal that six venues outside the city limits host competitions in various sports – including Galway Downs as host of Equestrian and Para Equestrian events. A final approval from the International Olympic Committee is expected in early April and will fully finalize the plan.

Even for those not on an Olympic path, there’s plenty at stake this weekend. Successful outings can earn both qualification and experience for the USEA’s American Eventing Championships. They’ll be held in California for the first time ever, at Galway Downs August 26-30. This weekend’s CCI4*-S is also a qualifier for the US Open of Eventing, set for Morven Park in Virginia in October.

The CCI Short format competitions for 2*, 3*, and 4* divisions held dressage and show jumping today, with the cross-country decider set for Saturday. The CCI1* division took place Thursday evening and concludes with Saturday’s cross-country.

Tamie Smith continues her reign in the realm, leading the three highest divisions. And her daughter Kaylawna Smith-Cook leads the 1*

CCI4*-S: Smith Sails to Lead

Tamie Smith and Kynan, 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood, were fault free over new course designer Brody Robertson’s show jumping track to stick on a 28.1 dressage score from judges Marilyn Payne and Sukhdev Rathore. They’ll head out on cross-country in the lead – but not by a lot.

Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14, an 11-year-old Westphalian, were also clear to stay on their 30.1 effort. Megan McIver and Igor B had just 1.4 time faults to stand third on a 32.4.

Smith said Kynan “came out this year as a different horse. This sport is always a progression – for all the horses – and Kynan is mentally and physically stronger this year.” Working with Australian show jumper and former eventer Scott Keach has been a big help, Smith added. “I am a student of the sport and always trying to get better with all my horses.”

O’Neal had high praise for the show jumping course. “I come from jumpers, so I love the turns. There were fun, different elements with the outside bending lines, and the triple bar to two uprights. It walked forward and rode forward, and I loved it.”

Cross-country, designed by Galway Downs veteran Clayton Fredericks, “has plenty of places where I’ll need to sit up and ride and I am more confident about doing that after today’s course.”

Regardless how tomorrow goes, “This is a big day for me,” O’Neal shared. An incident while jogging another horse last fall resulting in a broken hip, a hip replacement and months of rehab. During that stretch, Clooney had time off, so having rider and horse back in form is a thrilling step, said the Washington-based professional. A good day tomorrow will help them achieve a major goal of qualifying for the US Open of Eventing.

CCI3*-S: Smith and Lillet 3 Blaze the Trail

Tamie Smith and Lillet 3. Photo by Sally Spickard.

This division’s top three after dressage stayed the same after show jumping as Tamie Smith and Lillet 3 lead on a 25.4 from Marilyn Payne. Tommy Greengard and Joshuay MBF, an 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood, are hot on their heels with a 26, and Erin Kellerhouse and Bon Vivant GWF, a 10-year-old Oldenburg, are third with a 28.3.

Smith and the relatively new ride continue a promising partnership highlighted by winning the Fall International CCI3*-L here last year. The elegant mare is a 9-year-old Holsteiner owned by rising star young rider Molly Duda. They’ve gone from strength to strength and Smith plans to step her up to CCI4*-S at Twin Rivers Ranch in April.

Tommy Greengard is another exhibitor over the moon about his horse, in this case his own “Josh.” It’s their first outing since finishing as reserve national champion in the USEF CCI4*-L Championships in the fall of 2023, Greengard and Josh’s mutual debut at the level. Josh had a minor injury last spring. Meanwhile, Greengard spent several months competing in Europe and “adding new tools to our toolbox and gaining so much more experience and understanding.”

Josh’s comeback could not have gone better. “He is a through and through professional and he never fails to be a showman,” Greengard said. “He has returned so much stronger because we worked on his strength and fitness more than we ever have.”

CCI2*-S: Smith Has Top Two Spots

Tamie Smith and Kareena K. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Tamie Smith dominates another division so far, leading this16-entry field after two phases. Her leader is Kareena, a 9-year-old Holsteiner mare, whose flawless show jumping added nothing to their 23.2 dressage score from judges Marilyn Payne and Christel Carlson.

With Solaguayre Cantata, Smith is 2nd on a 27.4. Like Kareena K, the 7-year-old Argentine Thoroughbred is owned by longtime supporter Julianne Guariglia. And both are “such quality mares,” Smith said. “They are very good on the flat and have amazing gallops, so I’m really excited for tomorrow.”

Having just completed a walk of all four international cross-country courses, Smith described the routes as full of fair challenges and big questions. Smooth rounds will the goal for all her contenders, she said.

Amber Birtcil and Milagro, an 8-year-old Dutch Warmblood, head out on Saturday cross-country on a third-standing 28.5.

Kaylawna Smith-Cook and Coco Chanel. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Kaylawna Smith-Cook kept the division leads in the family by riding Coco Chanel, a 7-year-old Holsteiner. Asia Vedder and Litmanen Z, a 7-year-old Zangersheide, follow them, with Megan McIver and Storm Dino, a 6-year-old Irish Sport Horse, in third before cross-country.

Tune-In Tomorrow!

The International Horse Trials action continues Saturday, with CCI1*-S cross-country starting at 8:30 a.m.

CCI3*-S and CCI4*-S cross-country will be livestreamed on Equestrian+ starting at 1:30 PST. If you can’t make it out, commentators Frankie Thieriot Stutes and Spencer Sturmey of Great Britian bring the action and their expertise to you!

Galway Downs International H.T. (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Live Stream]

2nd Annual Sport Science Seminar Unites and IGNITEs Equine Industry

By on Jan 20, 2025 9:30 am -

“Mind-blowing” was a go-to reaction for attendees describing their experience at IGNITE’s 2nd Annual Sport Science for the Olympic Disciplines Seminar.

Dedicated to advancing equine athlete management, the Seminar drew a diverse field of experts to the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, FL on Jan. 12-13. These veterinarians, physios and researchers connected with top riders, grooms, farriers, footing experts, coaches and owners to compare experiences, ask questions and discuss forward paths for ensuring sport horse well-being, longevity and performance.

Lateral thinking, outside-the-box thinking and collaboration were emphasized in developing a progressive culture for teams supporting sport horses.

Presentations ranged from the very specific – like an encouraging study on the potential for orthobiologics in treating equine asthma – to the broad, like Sunday’s no-holds-barred discussion of the future of equestrian sports as social licensing issues intensify along with concerns about equestrian’s place in the Olympics.

Many discussions were enhanced with wet lab-style workshops at the University of Florida Veterinary Hospital at WEC.

“It was mind-blowing,” said long-time international eventing groom Max Corcoran. “There was so much information, so many smart people who are so passionate about everything they do – whether it’s artificial intelligence, understanding gait analysis, lung capacity, farriery, physiotherapy… Bringing all these people together in one place so we can learn from them is amazing.

“Even though we’re just getting a tiny piece of what they can offer us, it’s all things we can put together to make our horses better, more competitive and extend their careers.”

Lateral Thinking

One of IGNITE’s founders, Mark Revenaugh, DVM, welcomed attendees with an invitation to embrace and apply “lateral thinking” to sport horse management.

Along with fellow international vet, Tim Ober, Revenaugh founded the group as the Equine High-Performance Sports Group over 10 years ago. “Our first motive was how can we get better outcomes?” he said. “As time passed, we got involved with human sports practitioners and realized that their priorities were around keeping athletes happy and healthy and knowing that would lead to better outcomes. That helped us converge into dual priorities of getting better outcomes and improving the well-being of the horse.

“IGNITE is embracing new and creative ways to improve our horse’s well-being with emphasis on maximizing performance and longevity,” Revenaugh continued. “It is time for the veterinary profession to embrace modern methodologies, as is done in human sport science, and add them to the toolbox for managing our equine athletes.”

An increasingly diverse membership inspired a rebranding of the group to IGNITE in January of 2024. Late last year, IGNITE transitioned to a non-profit status as a “platform to facilitate open-ended improvement in the equine industry,” he explained.

Tech & Data

The human performance world is far ahead of equine sports in the collection and use of biometric data in training programs and management decisions. But equine veterinarians including Seminar presenter Cris Navas de Solis DVM, University of Pennsylvania, are leading a sea change in horse sports.

Heart rate, heart rate recovery and lactate testing are among the metrics helping horses improve their performance, prevent injuries and – sometimes — get redirected to a discipline better suited to their physiology.

Lactate testing can be a game-changer for high performance horses, Navas de Solis explained. Muscles produce lactate when they’ve used up fat stores for energy. When they switch to drawing on glucose as their energy source, lactate is produced.

Measuring when a horse starts producing lactate during a work-out of specific intensity and duration is a constructive tool.

Navas de Solis shared the example of one of Tamie Smith’s top horses. The Team USA eventer knew she had a great horse in Danito but had struggled to make the time on cross-country. Combining lactate and heart rate testing with Navas de Solis’ help, Smith altered the horse’s conditioning program to include more sprint work going into the Maryland 5* in 2022.

“Prior to that he had never made the time, and that year he was 20 seconds under, even though we had otherwise done the same training,” Smith shared. The pair finished 2nd at Maryland and Smith became one of several leading event riders to add biometric data to her horses’ program.

There’s an injury prevention benefit to Smith’s realization. “If you look at a horsemanship book, you’d think what we were doing was getting our horses fit. But for these types of horses, you are almost doing too much, which could lead to more injury risk.” Working smarter, not harder, is the goal. The dangers of over-training are widely recognized in the human athlete world and becoming so in sport horse management.

In creating a fitness plan, data enables the horse’s team to “make a bigger first floor foundation or raise the ceiling,” Navas de Solis stated. “It guides how we plan for the long run. We know where we are, we determine where we want to be, and we make a plan for getting there.” Expect frequent revisions, he added.

Context Over Content

“The numbers on their own mean nothing,” he cautioned. “They need to be filtered through brains that understand the context. Context is more important than content.”

Swedish veterinarian and researcher Elin Hernlund had similar cautions in her presentations on the use of gait analysis tools made possible by evolving artificial intelligence and machine learning.

A pioneer with the Sleip gait analysis system, Hernlund clarified the important difference between asymmetries in loading patterns and lameness. She referenced a study in which “one-third of high performing horses had gait asymmetry values of similar magnitude to those seen in clinically lame horses.”

In picking up over 150 key anatomical points on a horse moving to, away from or across the camera’s view, the Sleip system is proving most useful as a means of detecting gait patterns and changes flagging potential lameness.

A demonstration with another Team USA eventer, Will Coleman, showed how the rider can influence the horse. In Coleman’s case, it was for the good as his aids helped an 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse push off stronger on its weak side than it had when trotting in-hand.

Gait analysis is rapidly gaining traction with team vets and top riders, Hernlund shared. German dressage team veterinarian Marc Koene uses it to monitor horses when he’s not physically with them. Austrian show jumper Max Kuhner uses it to pick up problems earlier. Swedish show jumper Peder Fredricson records his horses every other week to identify patterns and slight changes and to compare results to what he’s sensing from the ground and the saddle.

Objective data also enhances communication between everyone caring for a horse. “It can reduce tension between the vet, the rider and the groom because it’s data,” Hernlund stressed. “It facilitates an important and interesting way of evolving communication that has the horse in the center of the discussion.”

During the same demonstration on horse-rider interaction, physiotherapists Kirk Peck and Emily Rose discussed how the horse and rider’s biomechanics affect each other. In Coleman’s case, he could improve the balance in his horse’s trot, while a less talented and/or less balanced rider could do the opposite.

Both physios work on people and animals. They greatly prefer to observe the rider and the horse working together, then do hands-on observations and treatments of each.

They stressed that riders must consider and manage themselves as athletes, with the same attention to joint mobility, strength and flexibility they know is critical for their horses.

Peck and Rose noted that human athletes are gradually embracing physical therapy for injury prevention and performance enhancement. It’s the case even though insurance companies typically only cover physical therapy for rehab from an injury.

They encouraged attendees to embrace this “pre-hab” approach in their horse’s management. Pre-habbing also sets a horse up for a more successful rehab if they do get injured.

More Data & Sharing

“More data” was called for in almost every session over two days.

IGNITE’s Equine Clinicians Registry was described as a step toward fulfilling that challenging request. Starting in 2022, the Registry began to “acquire and analyze clinical data to gain deeper insights into outcomes for equine athletes being treated with orthobiologics,” Dr. Revenaugh explained.

It’s early days, he emphasized, including a steep learning curve for the realities of collecting and using the information. “This is a foundation in the horse world to start building info to help inform all of us what is the right thing to do next.”

Attendees applauded the Registry and recognized the need for further support within the industry. “This is a long-term project we can all get behind,” Revenaugh said. “We already have some wonderful support from diverse interests within the industry, but it can’t happen without further and ongoing financial support.”

Technology can help gather data, but the process also requires a shift toward sharing information.

“We’re going to have to take the lid off some things that we sometimes want to keep close to the vest,” said Chris Kawcak, DVM, of Colorado State University. That’s in addition to valuing data from those closest to the horse. “Sometimes the groom has the best feedback of anybody.”

Ali Morton, DVM, Medical Director of the U of Florida Veterinary Hospital, echoed the call for transparency. “We as an industry have to become more transparent and that is really difficult. There’s a nature to not reveal what’s wrong with our horses.

“What IGNITE is doing is brilliant. We all need to jump aboard and get on the bus!”

Too Much Good Stuff!

The summaries above barely scratch the surface of the 11 sessions held over two days in Ocala, plus the afternoon of demos at the U of Florida Veterinary Hospital. Deep dives into respiratory health, progressive shoeing, bone remodeling, heat stress and building a team around an athlete were among many topics spurring engagement, inquiries and lively discussion.

IGNITE members have access to all the Seminar’s sessions online, along with 180+ hours of presentations on a wide range of topics related to sport horse health, performance and longevity.

Hear from Max Corcoran for her thoughts on this seminar:

Poggio Horsemanship Fund Sponsors IGNITE’s Sport Science Seminar

By on Jan 7, 2025 9:00 am -

IGNITE for Equine Athletes welcomes the USEA Foundation’s Poggio Horsemanship Fund as the newest sponsor of the 2nd Annual Sport Science for the Olympic Disciplines Seminar in Ocala, Jan. 12-13, 2025.

Established in 2020, the Poggio Horsemanship Fund helps the Foundation educate riders, owners, grooms and eventing enthusiasts to give their horses every benefit when it comes to improving their lives.

The Poggio Fund’s mission aligns perfectly with IGNITE’s. The Fund was established in honor of a horse whose 10 years of Advanced level eventing success manifest the competitive and welfare outcomes IGNITE targets for all equine athletes.

“You don’t have long term success with short term vision,” notes IGNITE president Mark Revenaugh, DVM, a core member of Poggio’s care team during the horse’s many Team USA contributions. Owned by Dr. Mark Hart and ridden by Amy Tryon, Poggio competed in two Olympics and two World Equestrian Games, earning two team medals and one individual medal.

Poggio’s rider, the late Amy Tryon, “had an amazing vision of what it was to look after the horses,” explains Max Corcoran, international groom and president of the US Eventing Association when the Poggio Horsemanship Fund was established. “Poggio was a team horse from 1998 to 2009. To keep any horse going at Advanced for 10 years is just amazing.”

Dr. Revenaugh sees absolute alignment between the Poggio Fund and IGNITE’s mission, as well as the story of Poggio’s success and longevity. “IGNITE is about trying to get better outcomes with longevity as a priority, while also looking out for the welfare of our horses.”

Sport Science Seminar Agenda

IGNITE’s Sport Science Seminar for the Olympic Disciplines gathers experts from the human and equine high-performance worlds. They will present and share research, training and conditioning approaches and actionable preparation and performance metrics.

The seminar takes place Jan.12-13, 2025 at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala and includes interactive workshops at the University of Florida WEC Equine Clinic.

“This event is the only seminar in North America focused on providing riders, trainers, veterinarians, farriers, therapists, grooms, owners and their supporting teams with the knowledge and tools needed to enhance their own horse management practices,” said Joop Loomans, DVM, PhD, MBA, IGNITE’s executive director. The gathering is part of IGNITE’s mission to advance high-performance horse health, longevity and performance.

Sign Up & Other Info

  • Registration for two days is $175; and $95 for one day.
  • IGNITE ELITE Members register for free. (Registration still required)
  • IGNITE Pro Members receive a 25% registration discount.
  • Register for the Sports Science Seminar here.
  • Members of the media can inquire about complimentary registration here.
  • Sponsor inquiries here.

Join IGNITE here.

About IGNITE

IGNITE is a platform for advancing leading-edge knowledge, evidence-based approaches and collaborative, proactive practices focused on injury prevention, peak performance and longevity for equine athletes. Five levels of membership provide access to in-person events and an extensive, constantly updated library of live and on-demand content.

For more information, visit www.igniteforequineathletes.com.

Area VI and Regional Championships a Hit at The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs

By on Nov 5, 2024 9:30 am -

Katarina Sapia and Magherboy. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

International competition concluded Saturday night, but the excitement stayed with finalés for the Horse Trials and Regional Championships components of the Eventing Championships at Galway Downs on Sunday.

There might have been fewer current stars competing, but there was no shortage of tomorrow’s likely leaders – horse and human – and lots of love for horses and joy found in the sport on inspiring display.

For the second consecutive year, the USEA Area VI Championships were expanded to welcome pairs from any region. This season-ending Galway Downs event has always drawn many from throughout the West. Those numbers are increasing as reports of generous prize money, first-class prizes and a welcoming, celebratory atmosphere filter through the industry. “I just paid for my entries!” was an exclamation overheard often at the back gate when winners received their checks in bounty bundles made possible by sponsors.

“I think we are really moving this in the right direction,” said Area VI chairman Andrea Pfeiffer. “I think we got the classes right, reflected in more people in them, and the prize giving and prizes. The goal is to make it a West Coast version of the American Eventing Championships.”

US Eventing’s American Eventing Championships will be held at Galway Downs next August, but they are traditionally held on the East Coast. The Regional Championships will be staged again as part of the early November Eventing Championships and the vision is to keep growing participation.

Students of Pfeiffer’s Chocolate Horse Farm excelled in several divisions, adding to her enthusiasm for the event.

Pfeiffer predicts the Regional Championship’s growth will align with more Olympic hopefuls making the trek West to familiarize themselves with Galway Downs, which is the proposed venue for the LA28 Olympic equestrian competition. “I’m surprised more riders haven’t come out for it already, but I think we’ll see it soon.”

Echoing sentiments expressed throughout the week, Pfeiffer is grateful to organizer Robert Kellerhouse and his relentless enthusiasm and drive to improve the venue, support the region’s riders and improve the sport. “His excitement is infectious!”

Meet Our Regional Champions

Dawn Scott and Ghost. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Oh & HSH Redfield Hillside Are Preliminary Champions

High school senior Soobin Oh has early decision college application deadlines looming, but that didn’t deter her from rising to the top of this division. Partnered for one year with HSH Redfield Hillside Star, an 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse, the pair has always excelled in the jumping phases. “He’s the one that gives me confidence,” Soobin relayed. “I thought the coffin was so difficult and that he would take a strong look at it, but he was like, ‘No problem’,” she said of Friday’s cross-country outing designed by Alessandra Allen-Shin.

Dressage is a work in progress, but fault-free efforts on cross-country and stadium propelled the pair to the top of the leaderboard on their 38.6 dressage effort.

Oh rides with James and Helen Alliston, and is considering a gap year as a working student for the Northern California professionals.

Mia Edsall and True Story finished in reserve on Oh’s same score, with the cross-country time breaking their tie. Erin Storey and Dot Notation were third.

Hellfrich & Casanova Are Open Modified Champions

Alexis Helffrich and Casanova. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Professional Alexis Helffrich and Casanova, a 6-year-old German Sport Horse, stayed on their stellar 21 dressage score to win and didn’t need the rail-plus in hand to top the division.

Patience with Casanova has paid off for Helffrich, whose Cheval Training is based in Northern California. “He’s still young and he’s a very sensitive, careful horse so I’ve had to take my time with him. This is the first show where I feel he’s become more mature and is really listening to me. It’s his best performance all around and I could not be more pleased. You never know with horses, but if he continues this trajectory, I think he’s going to be very nice.” Hellfrich hopes a step up to Preliminary early next year.

Helffrich is thrilled Casanova chose the Eventing Championships to shine. “You come here and feel like you’re at the Olympics. It’s a top-notch venue.”

Shelby Murray and Mannoury vd Watermolen are reserve champions, also ending on their dressage score: a 26.9. Sophie Celeste and Max Attraction are third.

Tamie Smith and Kareena K are Modified-Training Champions

Halloween is over but, according to Tamie Smith, there’s been a ghost hovering all weekend – especially over Kareena K, the 7-year-old Holsteiner, who looks, behaves and performs eerily like Soliguayre California. That 2023 Luhmuhlen 5* partner was lost after a freak injury, but her spirit seems to live on in several of Smith’s talented young horses.

Kareena is a former show jumper spotted by Sara Mittleider in Germany. The mare’s similarity to California inspired Mittleider to contact Smith. When Smith went to try her, “I couldn’t not call Julianne (Guariglia, California’s owner),” even though she wasn’t in the market for another horse then. With her family’s support, Julie said yes, “It was kind of a Hail Mary pass,” said Guariglia. “We felt like she had to be ours.”

It was a good decision. Even being new to eventing, Kareena and Smith have won every outing together. “She’s a natural on cross-country and dressage, so I’m just teaching her everything.” As she gets fit for the sport, Kareena is channeling California in and out of the show ring. Warm-up ring high jinks and moments of brassy attitude are emerging as California-esque traits she didn’t exhibit on arrival.

“California’s loss kind of tarnished everything we do because it was just such a fluke,” Smith shared. “But to have her living on in these young horses is amazing.”

Kareena won on a 23.4 dressage score, earning Smith another emotional honor: the Jordan Taylor Memorial trophy. The much-missed Taylor won this division in 2021 and passed away suddenly in 2023. Close friends created the award and it was presented on Sunday by Emilee Libby, Katy Robinson and Ashlyn Dorsey.

Asia Vedder and Litmanen Z were reserve champions, followed by Arizona-based veterinarian Anastasia Keyser and Bellatrix.

Mia Brown and Casa de Prestige are Training-Novice Champions

Bringing a young horse along “wasn’t really on my radar,” explained college freshman Mia Brown. But when Casa de Prestige, an 8-year-old Hanoverian, came into Chocolate Horse Farm as a sales horse, Brown was open to giving her a try. “It was love at first sight and it’s been great bringing her along.” Trainer Tommy Greengard ran her a few times at Novice, before Brown took over the ride.

“She’s my total heart horse and I love this little mare,” Brown shared. “She loves to compete and wants to please. Being here at the Championships with the overall atmosphere and community make it really fun to compete here.”

They won on their 25.7 dressage effort. Two professionals followed them in the rankings: Lauren Billys Shady and Luna are reserve champions, followed by Erin Kellerhouse and Million Bitcoin.

Sophie Stocks & Rosco are Senior Training Rider Champions

Elisa Karnavy and Buzz Ryder. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Amateur rider Sophie Stocks has brought along a few young horses before and Rosco, a 5-year-old Irish Sport Horse, ranks high among them. “I’ve had him since he was 3-and-a-half and we’ve done everything together. He works and tries really hard and it’s been incredibly fun.”

Stocks works full time as an attorney and is grateful to the support of Chocolate Horse Farm’s program for making it possible to progress with serious horsemanship goals alongside a career. Chocolate Horse’s Andrea Pfeiffer “is always in our corner and her team does a wonderful job with everything.”

Stocks and Rosco incurred only one rail through three phases. They won on a 34 score, followed by Lorilee Hanson and Mosaique and Stacia Lloyd and Kid A.

Marilyn Schackner & Georgie Z are Junior Training Rider Champions

Seventeen-year-old Marilyn Schackner is studying to become a commercial pilot and she and Georgie Z flew to a double clear show jump round to retain their lead. It’s the peak in her three-year partnership with the 8-year-old Zangershiede.

Schackner has helped Georgie “find his feet” for dressage, which is a challenge for the ‘big, long horse.” In return, Georgie is honest and brave on cross-country and show jumping. “Even though I make some mistakes, he always helps me a lot and he’s been that way since I first got him.”

Schackner trains with Chocolate Horse Farm and loved the Regional Championships “big atmosphere.” George is “not affected by it too much, but he’s like ‘Wow! This is fun!”

Schackner and Georgie finished on their 30 dressage. Anna Weston-Smith and Kinda B Dazzle are reserve champions and Isabella Rega and Blurred Lines are third.

Lisa Peecook and SZ Raudo are Novice-Beginner Novice Champions

Lisa Peecock and SZ Raudo. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

The Chocolate Horse Farm team had an outsize cheer from the stands when Lisa Peecook and SZ Raudo finished show jumping with just .4 time faults. Peecook is a veteran eventer known for her great history turning OTTBs into eventers, but it’s been a while since she’s had a horse partnership story worthy of that applause.

Paired with the 5-year-old Argentine Sport Horse only since August, Peecook said he’s “been a pure pleasure to ride. It’s been a long time since I had a horse that makes me smile so much.” Asked to name their favorite phase from the weekend, Peecook said, “No! because it’s all been so fun. He is really rideable in all three.”

Peecock has oodles of gratitude to Chocolate Horse Farm’s Andrea Pfeiffer and Tommy Greengard for finding Raudo and having such a great team spirit at the barn.

Peecook and SZ Raudo won with a 25.7, followed by Chloe Smith and SR Myconos and Allyson Hartenburg and William Cool Sunrise.

Dawn Scott and Ghost are Senior Novice Rider Champions

Dawn Scott and Ghost, a 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse, both have eventing experience, but their partnership is new as of this year and everything came together to win the Championship. Scott contested the Championships last year on another horse and had a few rails on the final day, which she attributed to her own nerves.

“This year, I felt like I was finally able to take a breath, get comfortable, then be able to help my horse as well. I thought she would be nervous in the big environment, but she wasn’t. And, she’s a strong jumper.”

Students of Andrea Baxter and Rebecca Braitling at Twin Rivers Ranch, Scott and Ghost finished on their 25.6 dressage score. Jeanne Carley and Shannondale Fionn were reserve and Pam Wright and La Adela Nihull were third.

Katarina Sepia and Magheraboy are Junior Novice Rider Champions

Katraina Sepia and the 6-year-old Irish Draught, Magheraboy, topped this division by staying on their 37.8 dressage score. Michaela Smith and Cashmaker were reserve.

Nazila Hejazi and Tessa are Senior Beginning Novice Rider Championship

Nazila Hejazi didn’t get her own horse until she was 45. That was 7 years ago with the now 20-year-old mare Tessa, and neither had any eventing experience. So, today’s accomplishment was a major milestone on many levels.

Hejazi’s favorite phase was cross-country. “It was educational!” she exclaimed. “I counted six 90-degree turns and 2 180-degree turns which emphasized the importance of the outside leg. You have to have that to make those turns going at speed.”

The victory is the result of a team effort, she stressed. “My trainer, Carmela Richards, my husband, my friend Nicole and Nicole’s husband. It’s all team work and I am very blessed.”

Just one rail in show jumping put the grateful pair on a 32.4 to take the title.

Elisa Karnavy and Buzz Ryder are Junior Beginning Novice Rider Champions

Elisa Karnavy and Buzz Ryder. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Thirteen-year-old Elisa Karnavy got the weekend off to a good start with dressage. Their 34.1 dressage score reflected a best effort yet in her year-long partnership with the 11-year-old Mustang, Buzz Ryder. “I really felt good about that!” said Karnavy, who rides with Sigourney Jellins at Miramar Sport Horses in Northern California’s Woodside.

Karnavy and Buzz Rider had one rail in show jumping, to win on a 38.1. Laine Rethmeier and East Bound & Down are the reserve champions.

Elisa Karnavy and Foxens Little Treat are Starter Champions

After winning the previous division, Elisa Karnavy returned to claim top honors in the Starter Championships with the 20-year-old Foxens Little Treat. The high-stepping Welsh pony, who goes by “Cookie,” had not evented before Karnavy began leasing him three years ago. With the help of her trainer Sigourney Jellins of Miramar Sporthorses, Kanavy helped him learn cross-country. “He hadn’t done it before, but he’s very brave,” the rider explained. “Sometimes too brave!”

The win was a monumental improvement from last year’s Championships when the pair was disqualified after an accidental step outside of the dressage court. No such missteps this year as they started on a 29.3 and stayed there with faultless cross-country and jumping.

Eileen Morgenthaler and Bella Mia Apache are reserve champions and Sierra Clayton and Pancake are third.

The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs (CA): [Website] [Scores]

Molly Duda Enjoys Emotional Win in Galway Downs CCI4*-L

By on Nov 3, 2024 7:53 am -

Molly Duda and Disco Traveler. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

“I was freaking out all day,” admitted young rider Molly Duda of the hours preceding her first CCI4*-L victory – in her debut at the level no less. She’d taken over the lead ahead of her coach Tamie Smith after cross-country and had all day to ponder and plot between competing horses in the 3* and 2*.

“Mentally this sport is so challenging, especially in the long format with show jumping happening last,” Duda said. Compounding matters, her 15-year-old Swedish Warmblood, Disco Traveler, “is more challenging in the show jumping phase.”

That’s the final phase of The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs’ international divisions, staged in the Grand Prix Arena buzzing with fans’ enthusiasm.

Riding last, Disco knocked the second fence on Marc Donovan’s track. “I mentally accepted that we’re probably not going to take the win and I had to go on and ride my best through the rest of the course,” Duda said. Regular work with sports psychologist Natalie Hummel and a midday talk with Smith helped her execute that plan to go clear the rest of the way and within the time.

They only had a rail in hand, but making the time kept them ahead of James Alliston and the other CCI4*-L debutante, Cora. Molly had been working on “base pace” and “trusting a bigger canter” in this phase. “I probably overdid it at fence 1, and I think that caused the rail at 2.”

Describing Disco as a horse that might “not look so impressive from the ground,” Duda heaped praise on her partner. “We clicked from the start. He’s such a fighter and I’m so lucky to have him.”

Hopping off after leaving the ring with her first Championship in hand, Duda and Smith had a long, loud hug fest. “I wanted it so badly, and she wanted it so badly for me, which speaks to her character and how selfless she is,” Duda said of her coach and mentor to many West Coasters.

The admiration is mutual. “I won two FEI divisions today, (the 3* and 1*), but having that happen for Molly was even better,” said Smith. “I can’t say enough good things about Molly as a human being. She’s an amazing human and that’s what I love most and what we need more of in this sport.”

Duda hopes to make another USEF European Development Tour next summer and said a 5* is a possibility for the end of next season.

The nearly 18-hand Cora, a 9-year-old Hanoverian, was her “lady like” best, said runner up James Alliston. She was adjustable in a snaffle bit and left air to spare everywhere. Speed was the only issue, with 1.4 time faults keeping them in the reserve spot. They’d started 4th in the four-horse division after dressage and Alliston is thrilled about the mare’s future.

Jennie Brannigan and FE Connery finished third, happy to return to their California stomping grounds. Jennie regretted having to scratch her other star, Pascal, who she said sustained a spider bite before boarding the plane on the East Coast.

Smith and Kynan jumped clear with .4 time penalties. Even though they finished last after a pilot-error run-out on cross-country, Smith had only praise for the outing. “He was super reliable all weekend and proved that he’s the horse I’ve been hoping he’d be.”

Smith expects to have more competition in the coming years’ international divisions since Galway Downs became the proposed venue for the LA28 Olympic equestrian competition. “I can’t reiterate enough how different it feels to compete at a Championships venue,” she reflected. “Everyone has a unique opportunity to get a lay of the land, which we often don’t at Championships venues.

“I know it’s going to look a lot different in four years, and that’s exciting,” she continued. “I feel very fortunate to know the venue like the back of my hand. I think others will want to come out and get familiar with all the different elements here before the Games.”

Lillet 3* and Tamie Smith Stay Atop the CCI3*-L

Tamie Smith and Lillet 3. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Smith and new ride Lillet 3 needed none of their many rails in hand as they jumped double clear to nail the win. “She gave me such an incredible feeling – quality through and through and jumping with her feet way above the jumps,” Smith enthused. “And I know a lot more about the mare now and am really excited about what a cool horse she is.”

The mare who helped Smith earn the division’s leading rider Yogi Cup is owned by Molly Duda.

Northern California trainer Megan McIver is also high on a relatively new horse – Igor B. The 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood was produced to 4* by Kristina Hall Jackson in England, and purchased by a client to help McIver fulfill international ambitions. Their first outing and win together came at the Galway Downs spring CCI2*-S and Saturday’s double clear show jump was their sixth in a row. A 4*-S is on the agenda for the coming spring.

Christina Rennie travelled three days from Pritchard, Canada to compete here. Second after cross-country, the thrilled rider said her main hope was to earn a qualifying score. She and her 18-hand homebred mare, Flight of the Arabesque, finished third after a two-rail show jump and should have happy drive home.

Molly Duda’s fifth place finish with Carlingsfords He’s A Clover earned her the Mia Eriksson Memorial Trophy as the division’s highest placed young rider. Taylor McFall, 8th with Stoneman, earned reserve honors.

Megan Sykes’ partner, Spiro P, was showered with special prizes as the 2*’s top placed 7-year-old horse.

Alliston & HMR Rolan Top CCI2*-L

James Alliston and HMR Rolan. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

James Alliston called HMR Rolan a “cool dude” yesterday after clean cross-country and the 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse was even cooler day after doing the same for show jumping. “He’s not used to the big arena with all the people around,” Alliston said. “That can really affect concentration, but he was really solid and jumped really well.”

Kendra Mitchell and Calcourt Legend, a 10-year-old Anglo/Dutch Warmblood, laid down the most gratifying effort of their three-year partnership. This was the first time “we really had all the three phases come together,” said Mitchell, who is assistant trainer at Avon Eventing in Northern California. The former show jumper had struggled with dressage, but their 31 score this week reflects improvements. That was coupled with a more rideable, focused gallop on cross-country to set the stage for an excellent finish, Mitchell reported.

Amber Bitcil and Mississipi continued their year of mostly top five finishes at this level, finishing third on their 32.7 dressage performance.

This division had extra extravagant prizes, highlighted by a Devoucoux saddle for the highest placing young rider. That was Greylin Booth, who finished 4th with Modesto RE. Molly Duda earned reserve honors with her 9th place finish with Jutopia.

Young horses had special recognition, too. Andrea Baxter’s two entries, Camelot PJ and The Big Easy, took Champion and Reserve honors as the top placing 6-year-olds.

Smith and Solaguayre Cantata Stay Atop the CCI1*-L

Tamie Smith and Solaguayre Cantata. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Solaguayre Cantata’s development has not been as easy as her flawless three phases might suggest. But Tamie Smith is thrilled with the mare’s maturity when it counted. Their wire-to-wire win looked in potential jeopardy before the bell rang as the 7-year-old Argentine Sporthorse balked and bobbled while passing near fence 2, the Defender square oxer at jumbotron end of the arena.

A few run-outs at that spot red-flagged the fence’s spookiness, so Smith gave her a good look before getting underway. “I tell my students that even when the bell rings, you still have 45 seconds, so don’t get anxious. You still have time to do what you need to.”

A good look at the jump was all Contata needed. Once on course, it was smooth sailing to end on their 24.3 dressage score. Contata is owned by Julianne Guariglia. She is a long-time fixture of Smith’s Next Level Eventing team, which had winners in numerous divisions this week.

Seventeen-year-old Emma Slocum and Patito logged a double clear to move up into reserve champion status, adding just .4 time penalties to finish on a 28.6. The 11-year-old Irish Draught Sport Horse started with one of her “best dressage tests ever,” said Slocum, who rides with Megan McIver in Northern California. “A year ago, we were really struggling, but now this is the most confident she’s ever felt.” Progress with suppleness and relaxation came from lots of bending and stretching work and a long warm-up with both exercises.

“It’s so great to feel confident around such a hard track yesterday.,” Slocum stated. “Today, even though she was tired from that, she tried hard for me and kept the rails up.”

Kaylawna Smith-Cook and Moscato-Versent SA were third. The 7-year-old Dutch Warmblood owned by Bonner Carpenter is known as “Mo” at home, where he’s a champion napper who snores a lot. He’s also smart, quick footed and sparks to life at show time as he did in all phases this weekend.

The Course

There was a lot going on and a lot to look at for hopefuls navigating Marc Donovan’s colorful international tracks. Giant minions, swans, cookies and snails served as standards for fences set at the end of rollbacks, bending lines and a few straight-aways. Related distances dominated the track and staying on the prescribed striding rewarded most horses.

Donovan has been designing Galway Downs show jumping for several years and noted an “absolute evolution” in the caliber of West Coast horse/rider pairs. He said the same of the venue. “Every year I come out here, there’s another million-dollar improvement” This year in particular the management of the footing stands out.

The FEI divisions’ finalés drew a big crowd warmed up by opening ceremonies featuring the Temecula Cowgirls. They set the mood with their famous flag-flying and glitter-enhanced drill routines. The VIP Pavillon was buzzing with loyal enthusiasts and the Southern California Pony Club drew many with their display of horse health research projects.

More To Come

Sunday sees conclusion of the Horse Trials divisions, plus Regional Championships that will be staged in the same amped up atmosphere seen in Saturday’s dressed up Grand Prix arena.

The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Schedule] [Scoring] [Free H&C Live Stream] [Free Ride On Video Live Stream] [Volunteer]

Duda, Smith and Goodman Lead International Divisions at The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs

By on Nov 2, 2024 9:41 am -

Molly Duda and Disco Traveler. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Fans and community leaders came out in force to see what all this Olympic equestrian fuss is about and Galway Downs contenders put on a first class exhibition of the sport.

With 400+ gathered at course-side “Bridle Brunch” locations, Molly Duda and Disco Traveler blazed into the lead of the CCI4*-L. James Alliston and Cora had walk issues in their dressage test yesterday, but no problems galloping full tilt to move into second. Jennie Brannigan and FE Connery picked up 8 time penalties to sit third. And overnight leaders, Tamie Smith and Kynan, dropped to fourth after a pilot error drive-by at 6B.

Fit and fresh to the end of Clayton Fredericks’ 40-effort track, Duda and Disco added 6 time penalties to stand on a 38.9 going into Saturday’s show jumping finale. Pride in her 15-year-old Swedish Warmblood is a recurring theme in the 2023 Young Rider of the Year’s post-ride remarks. “He’s just such a fighter. I definitely made some mistakes, but he saved me every time. He knows his job.”

Knowing his job came in handy in several spots, including 15ABC. Coming off a downhill triple bar at 14, “Clay’s Corner” asked pairs to jump in over a table, then a sharp angle between two corners. “That rode really tricky. I ended up adding a stride and had to get a little scrappy, but he knows to get through the flags.”

Giving Disco a new galloping frame helped Duda navigate another big challenge, the late-course Rails, Ditch and Brush at 26ABC. “By that point in the course, the stride is a little flat and its harder to get the canter you want for an obstacle like that. We’ve been working on opening up his stride, bringing him back, and getting him to work a little more through his back in the gallop. When he uses his back more, he gallops more efficiently and has more energy throughout the course.”

Giving a glimpse of spectator opportunities expected during the Olympics, the crowded tents on course intensified the atmosphere, Duda confirmed. “I noticed that for sure! Disco really gets in the zone, so I don’t know if he noticed, but it was really cool to have a crowd there and for spectators to get to see our sport that way.”

Contesting their first 4*-L format, the Galway Downs Spring CCI4*-S champions finished cross-country with plenty left in the tank. “That’s no small feat at the end of a 10-minute course,” Duda said.

 

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The division’s other first-timer, Cora, had an ideal first outing, said James Alliston, who now sits second on the 9-year-old Hanoverian owned by Alliston Equestrian. “This is a lovely debut for her,” he said. He appreciated the course’s thoughtful design. “It was great for a green horse to have the chance to get the adrenaline going before the meat of the course. She really grew into the course and I think she learned a lot about looking for the flags.”

“I knew the time (10 minutes) would be hard to get, but she galloped well and finished full of gallop,” Alliston said.

Tamie Smith took full blame for Kynan’s 20-point run-out that slid them from first to last. Without that, their time would have put them second. “I’m pissed at myself, but everything he did was literally beautiful.”

Kynan’s only question mark has been his gallop potential, but the 9-year-old Dutch Warmblood wiped out that worry today thanks to work extending his stride in a relaxed, efficient way. “Now he’s eating up the ground. I came in way too long to the first fence. I didn’t ride it like there was a B element, so he didn’t think there was one!”

Smith & Lillet 3 Keep CCI3*-L Lead

Tamie Smith and Lillet 3. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith described the course as “walking softer than it rode,” but none of it fazed Lillet 3, who completed it double clear to maintain their leading 29 dressage score. “The jumps were bigger and the distances were more technical than I thought they would ride, and I don’t know her super well. I had to be super on it, but we made the time and I am super thrilled with her. She is so rideable and she’s fast and I couldn’t have asked more of her.”

Going early in the field, Smith was surprised by the amount of trouble encountered. “What was awesome about Clayton’s (Fredericks) course was that there were rider blips, like run-outs, but no big issues. That’s a clever thing from a course designer and it reflects a well-designed track.”

Cristina Rennie and her homebred Flight of the Arabesque made the most of their three-day trip from Canada by moving up from sixth to second with clear jumping and 13 time faults. The 13-year-old, almost 18-hand, chestnut Westphalian is not what Rennie ordered when she chose a 15.2-hand mare and a normal sized sire, both black. “But I’m not giving him back! I feel like he’s putting it together these last couple of years. He was super strong today and I wish I had a stronger hand, but this is a good positive feeling for the future. My hope is to get a qualifying score. We’re very happy to be here in California!”

Another far-traveler, Megan Sykes and Spiro P, from Texas, stand third in what is now an 11-horse race after three starters retired and one was eliminated.

Goodman & Elwenda DP Maintain CCI2*-L Lead

Stephanie Goodman and Elwenda DP. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

The overnight leaders Stephanie Goodman and Elwenda DP maintain their lead by jumping clean with 2.4 time penalties. Goodman was confident about the former dressage mare’s prospects on cross-country, but their work is not done. The Idaho professional and the 15-year-old Dutch Warmblood must stay on their game as the standings remain as tight as they were after dressage.

James Alliston stays in second position with HMR Rolan, he’s third with Renaissance Man and thrilled about both. Owned by amateur rider Anna Nicholas, Rolan is an 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse who Alliston described as “a cool dude who goes around with his ears pricked.” Finishing with zero time faults, Rolan “is a horse with a high ceiling and we’re excited to be exploring his talent.”

Carolyn Colson’s Renaissance Man is an 8-year-old Hanoverian, often mistaken for Alliston’s 5* horse, Carma. And, not just because he’s jet black. “He’s very fast — he can fly without me really doing anything — and has the same silhouette as Carma.”

Going into Marc Donovan’s show jumping Saturday, the CCI2*-L is now a field of 32, after one rider fall and a withdrawal.

Smith and Solaguayre Cantata Stay Atop the CCI1*-L

“She is really coming into herself now,” said Smith of the 7-year-old Argentine Sporthorse, who is really a 6-year-old due to the late breeding season in Argentina. “She’s gotten the dressage down and today, when we finished cross country (with no faults), it was almost like that was too easy.” They lead on their 24.3 dressage score.

Tamie Smith and Solaguarye Cantata. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Owned by Julianne Guariglia, Contata has an emotional tie for Smith’s team because of her breeding connection to Solaguayre California, Tamie’s 2023 Luhmuhlen Horse Trials partner lost too soon after a freak injury that year.

Junior rider Paige Beauchamp Crandon and Fyfin Ramiro, an 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse, jumped double clear to stay in 2nd place on a 27. And Lauren Crabtree and Derroon Diamond, an 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse, also went double clear to show jump in third on a 27.3.

All but one of this division’s 16 starters finished cross-country Friday. The standings are close enough that one rail by anyone on the top rungs will shake up the standings.

Course designer Clayton Fredericks of Australia was pleased with the day’s results and his courses’ impact on contenders. “Some of the riders told me the courses looked straight forward but rode tougher than they thought they would,” he shared. “At the end of the day, it’s about helping the horses make good shapes over the jumps and helping them progress and come out looking well. I think we accomplished that.”

More to Come….

 

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The International divisions have their show jumping finale Saturday, starting with CCI1* at 11:30 a.m. Pairs compete in reverse order of their standings, setting the stage for a jazzed up conclusion in the Grand Prix Arena. Concurrently, Regional Championships and Horse Trials competition starts on Saturday.

The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Schedule] [Scoring] [Free H&C Live Stream] [Free Ride On Video Live Stream] [Volunteer]

Tamie Smith Leads 4*, 3* and 1* Divisions at The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs

By on Nov 1, 2024 6:42 am -

The energy building for several years crackled with new intensity as the Eventing Championships at Galway Downs (Temecula, CA) unfurled amid news of the venue being the proposed site for LA28 Olympic equestrian competition.

That intensity translated to an extra charged atmosphere on a warm, sunny day’s worth of FEI dressage.

Tamie Smith & Kynan Lead the CCI4*-L

Tamie Smith and Kynan. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Exuberance was on display in this division as four pairs began their quest for this title and the biggest chunk of the FEI divisions’ $45,000 in prize money. All four riders brought oodles of international experience and two of the horses were new to the level.

Tamie Smith and the Kynan Syndicate’s Kynan emerged atop on a 32.3. They are just ahead of student and 2023 Young Rider of the Year Molly Duda and her own Disco Traveler. New to the 4-L, this pair sit on a 32.9. Pennsylvania-based 5* rider Jennie Brannigan and FE Connery are third with a 36.3. Alliston Equestrian’s Cora is also stepping up into this division, and she and James Alliston are fourth with a 37.1.

A 9-year-old Dutch Warmblood, Kynan was “feeling fit and ready to go,” said Smith. “With the atmosphere in that ring I’m super pleased with his walk and trot work. When we picked up the canter, though, he kind of found another gear. He kind of lost it!

“But it’s nothing to be disappointed about,” she continued. “I think he’s actually feeling proud of himself. Now he just needs to learn to be a professional. He has all the qualities to be a top horse in the world,” Smith concluded. “It just takes time.”

Smith’s impact on the West Coast equestrian world is represented in the horsemanship and advancements of several riders, including Molly Duda. Duda is right behind Smith in this division with her own 15-year-old Swedish Warmblood.

“We never knew if he’d be able or want to be a four-star horse but he’s showed us that he’s more than capable of the level,” said Duda. The pair were selected for US Equestrian’s European Developing Riders Tour this past summer, one of many experiences that’s helped them advance.

Two flawless flying changes illustrated one of their greatest points of progress – flatwork, said the University of California Los Angeles sophomore. “We are starting to get that level of collection needed at four-star.”

Third-standing Jennie Brannigan earned her first 4*-L victory at Galway Downs in 2010, with Cambalda, and the venue continues to be a hub for many long friendships. Today, the 12-year-old Holsteiner, FE Connery, who is owned by Tim and Nina Gardner, had moments of excess energy in an otherwise lovely ride. That should serve them well on Friday’s 29-obstacle cross-country adventure from designer Clayton Fredericks.

The CCI4*-L ground jury was Anne-Mette Binder, Bea DiGrazia and Amanda Miller, who also evaluated the CCI3*-L.

Smith and Lillet 3 Lead the CCI3*-L

Tamie Smith and Lillet 3. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Lillet 3’s dressage test was as light and elegant as the impression her name evokes. The 8-year-old Holsteiner mare and Tamie Smith earned a 29 to lead the field of 17 starters.

Lillet is owned by young rider Molly Duda, purchased as a horse for Smith’s future, and it looks like that future may arrive fast. They paired up only this summer and won Preliminary in their debut together at Rebecca Farm.

Smith could not have higher hopes for the mare.

“She’s been an absolute joy. She tries really hard, she’s super elegant, moves well, has a good brain and gallops.” She describes cross-country as Lillet’s strong suit and looks forward to tomorrow. “She’s not strong, she’s careful, brave, fast and rideable.”

Reflecting Smith’s role in West Coast eventing, two of the many riders she helps are tied for second on a 32.1. Molly Duda and her own Carlingsfords He’s A Clover, a 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse, continue an ascendant partnership.

“He’s been a tricky one to figure out,” Duda shared. “He used to be more dull and a horse that you really wanted to get in front of your leg. Now he’s almost gone the other way and I have to reel him in. I feel like I’m riding a new horse.”

Duda credited Smith’s help in all areas, especially “helping me ride what’s underneath me, riding off feel, and to ride the horse you in the moment.”

Duda and Clover are tied with Texas-based Megan Sykes and Spiro P, a 7-year-old German Sport Horse owned by Donna Wallace.

“I’m really pleased with how he handled the atmosphere,” Sykes said. “It’s his first 3*-L and he can be a reactive horse, so I’m happy with how he kept his head even though I had to be a little reserved in some places.”

Sykes and Spiro also have connections to Tamie Smith. Sykes was a working student for Smith years ago and continues to appreciate Smith’s mentorship. Plus, Spiro was purchased from Smith’s daughter and fellow professional, Kaylawna Smith-Cook.

The Texas professional has not been back to Galway Downs in several years and is knocked out by the venue’s improvements. “It’s very impressive what they continue to put into it.” Along with Spiro’s FEI outing, Sykes has a Modified Training horse and students contesting the Regional Championships staged concurrently with FEI and Horse Trails competition. “That added to making the long trip from Texas a great goal for the end of the year.”

Goodman and Elwenda DP Lead CC2*-L

Stephanie Goodman and Elwenda DP. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

At an age when some sport horses plateau, 15-year-old Dutch Warmblood Elwenda DP keeps getting better and better. Idaho-based professional Stephanie Goodman took the mare on as an amateur dressage horse. “We never thought she could do eventing at this level, but she loves to jump and she just keeps showing us that this is what she wants to do.”

Owned by Deanna Briggs, the mare is also spooky. But even in an atmospheric Halloween day in the big arena, Elwenda kept her cool, especially relaxing into the test’s stretchy circles.

James Alliston and HRM Rolan were almost last to go in the 35-horse division, but they jumped into second with a 29.8 score from judges Amanda Miller and Bea DiGrazia. The 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse, owned by Anna Nicholas, gave Alliston another nice ride to celebrate his 40th birthday.

Lauren Billys Shady’s lovely test with Clearsky slotted them into third on a 30.2 score. The 9-year-old Holsteiner is one of three relatively new horses owned by the Team LaToni Syndicate. It’s named after Shady’s Puerto Rican grandmother, the muse for her twice fulfilled Olympic dream that burns anew.

“He’s fun to show because he really turns it on in the ring,” said Shady. “I can really enjoy myself in the dressage ring with him because he is such a reliable partner.”

Shady is excited about tomorrow’s “galloping course with some accuracy questions at the end to slow the rider down and ensure they keep the horse packaged up. I think it will be a great first Long format for this horse. The jumps are well presented and its clear what the course designer wants.”

There is very little wiggle room in the standings. Alliston and Renaissance Man and Reese Blinks and I’m Jaguar are tied right behind Shady on a 30.3, and the rest of the list has little daylight.

Smith & Solaguayre Cantata Lead the CCI*-L

Tamie Smith and Solaguarye Cantata. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Tamie Smith concluded a stellar day in the sandbox when she and Julianne Guariglia’s Solaguayre Cantata earned a 24.3 from judges Vicky Stashuk-Matisi and Bea DiGrazia. The 6-year-old Argentine Sporthorse’s score leads the 16-horse division and lays down the best FEI score of the event.

Fourteen-year-old Paige Beauchamp Crandon and Fyfin Ramiro stand second on a 27, with the thrill of a partnership that “feels like it’s really coming together.”

“We’ve scored well at Modified, but the 1* is a whole different level and it feels great to get this new experience with similar good scores.” Paige and the 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare train with Mickayla Howard and Avon Eventing in the Bay Area. Paige hopes to follow in the super successful Young Rider footsteps of her big sister Julia Beauchamp Crandon.

Lauren Crabtree and Derroon Diamond, another 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare, are positioned third with a 27.3. This 16-horse division is tightly packed from the second rung down.

Cross Country Awaits

The electric atmosphere continues Friday as Galway Downs welcomes new fans and local officials curious for a glimpse of what’s ahead with the LA28 Olympic possibilities. Luxury hospitality tents host a Bridle Brunch near the Oasis water complex and sizable crowds are expected to see horse sports at their very best.

International cross-country begins at 10:05 a.m. with the CCI3*L, followed by 4*, 2*, 1*. You can preview the courses on CrossCountryApp here. Live stream information can be found in the link list below.

The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Schedule] [Scoring] [Free H&C Live Stream] [Free Ride On Video Live Stream] [Volunteer]

Jennie Brannigan Takes Another CCI4*-L Title at Rebecca Farm

By on Jul 22, 2024 9:43 am -

Jennie Brannigan takes all in the CCI4*-L with Pascal. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Jennie Brannigan summed up the sentiments surrounding The Event at Rebecca Farm this afternoon. After nailing a wire-to-wire win of the CCI4*-L with Pascal, Brannigan and the handsome grey lingered in Ring 1 long after the victory gallop.

Brannigan gave her winner’s bouquet of wildflowers to a delighted ringside fan, then posed outside the arena for pictures with others. It was the last hot day of a hot week, but clearly she didn’t want to leave.

The 22nd staging of The Event was filled with compliments for the footing, the hospitality, and other tangibles. But Brannigan’s actions best reflected the Rebecca Farm spirit that regularly attracts 600+ horses, their riders and families, hundreds of loyal volunteers and thousands of fans every year.

Presented by the non-profit Montana Equestrian Events, Inc., The Event has also raised over $1 million dollars for breast cancer research and care through the Halt Cancer At X campaign. Begun in 2012, in honor of the competition’s late founder, Rebecca Broussard, the initiative continues to promote awareness and donations as evidenced by ubiquitous pink ribbons, stickers, apparel and gear, including on many horses’ haunches.

Jennie Brannigan Takes Another CCI4*-L Title

The CCI4*-L champion with Stella Artois in 2019, Brannigan retook the title with the youngest, at 9, of this division’s five horses. They had two-plus rails in hand, but only used 1.6 time penalties over Chris Barnard’s show jumping track made of Rebecca Farm’s famously colorful and artfully-crafted fences. They finished on a 37.8.

Many describe The Event as a litmus test for determining if their 4* horse has 5* potential. “I think he is a really exciting horse for the future,” Brannigan said of Pascal, the Holsteiner she also rode to the CCI3*-L win here last year.

Brannigan seemed equally excited about the success of fellow East Coast-based contenders, many of whom she urged to come west for The Event.

One of those is runner-up Ashley Adams. Debuting at this level, the 11-year-old Westphalian Charly, owned by Adams’ husband Roderick Stuart, had two rails today. Adams described them as pilot problems and perhaps due a little to Charly’s fatigue after running his first Long format cross-country.

“Show jumping is meant to test the horse’s adjustability after cross-country,” Adams noted. “And this course did exactly what it was supposed to do. Charly has a massive stride. Being able to go forward and keep the organization was challenging because some of the distances were more patient. He answered most of the questions really well and maybe it’s me that needs to answer them better!”

Completing standings that stayed the same after cross-country, Colorado-based Dani Sussman and her own Jos Bravio, a 13-year-old Argentine Silla, finished 3rd. Also completing the division were Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy, in 4th, and Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14.

Alexa E. Thompson & Just To Be Clear Stay Atop the CCI4*-S

Only after Alexa E. Thompson and her 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood Just To Be Clear won this division did the Kentucky-based rider allow herself to dwell on it being first FEI win of 53 or 54 outings.

“My groom Hannah Warner and I talked about that a little, but I just forced myself to push that way down in my mind,” she said. Thompson also chose not to think about their two-rail margin, which came in handy after one rail and 3.2 time penalties put their finish at a 58.3.

“Having a margin was nice, but at the end of the day, I just want to do better and do the best for my horse. Today, I let my eye peak down at the liverpool and that’s where our rail came.”

Competing in Europe last summer upped Thompson’s game and an ongoing benefit has been the coaching of French rider Maxime Livio. “He was giving me lessons over Pivio this week, even though we’re eight hours behind him in Paris. He’s an incredible horseman and has helped me a lot.”

Cristina Rennie and Flight of the Arabesque jumped clear with just 2.8 time penalties to move from 3rd to 2nd. And Marc Grandia and the Calexico Syndicate’s GHS Calexico moved from 4th to third, adding only 2 time penalties to their score.

Megan McIver and Elle Lock Up the CCI3*-L

Megan McIver and Elle. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

By finishing on their 33 dressage score, Megan McIver and Tally Chang’s 12-year-old Holsteiner, Elle, kept close challengers at bay and put a bright end to what had been a bad month. The Northern California professional broke her wrist and wasn’t sure she’d be able to compete here. On top of that, another horse she’d planned to bring coliced recently and couldn’t come.

However, the wrist brace came off today — “I couldn’t get my show coat on over it”– and the focus on just one horse helped the pair excel in their toughest phase. McIver determined that suppleness is key to show jumping success with Elle and was able to attain that in their auspicious warm-up. “Today’s round was an amazing way to end what’s been a stressful month!”

The pair surmounted another formidable challenge — having James and Helen Alliston hot on their heels with two 9-year-old horses. James and Cora, a Hanoverian, and Helen and the Bavarian Warmblood, Call Me Rudi, also logged double clear jumping rounds to stay in 2nd and 3rd place, respectively.

Tamie Smith and Sumas Tina Turner Top the CCI3*-S

California-based Team USA rider Tamie Smith “only” had five horses here this week, and one of the relatively new rides, Julianne Guariglia’s Sumas Tina Turner, is among her favorites. Smith didn’t care about their two rails of wiggle room.

“I don’t pay attention to my points,” she said. “I always try to end on my dressage score.” Which she did to stay on a 27.9. “She has such good form and jumping technique I feel very confident with her.” After being the only pair to make cross-country time yesterday, Smith feels the chestnut mare has gone from “treating me like a foster parent” to “now she loves me. We had a blast out there.”

Fellow Californian Taren Hoffos moved up another rung to finish 2nd with her mother Carolyn’s homebred Regalla, a 13-year-old Oldenburg mare. They incurred only 1.6 time penalties to move ahead of Tamie Smith and Molly Duda’s Carlingsford Hes A Clover. This pair had what Smith called an “unlucky” rail in another otherwise “beautiful round.”

Stephanie Goodman and Elwenda DP Rule the CCI2*-L

Stephanie Goodman and Elwenda DP. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography. 

Stephanie Goodman and Elwenda DP, owned by Deanna Briggs, retained their day-one lead in the CCI2*-L, adding another international win to their resume. “She’s a great competitor,” said Goodman. The long-time pair plans to contest the American Eventing Championships in Kentucky this year then, “see how we feel.”

As another Rebecca Farm veteran, the Idaho-based trainer praised the venue and organizer’s ability to ensure that “every year certain things get better. It’s always a joy to come. They do such a great job with all three phases and not many events can say that.”

Finishing on their 26.7 dressage mark, Goodman and 14-year-old Dutch Warmblood had James Alliston close behind on two 8-year-old horses. With his second-place ride, Anna Nicholas’ Irish Sport Horse, HMR Rolan, and his 3rd place partner, Carolyn Colson’s big Hanoverian, Renaissance Man, Alliston was fault free to stay on their 27.1 and 29.3 dressage efforts.

With the completion of its five FEI divisions, the “Western wonderland” that is Rebecca Farm began to look more like an actual farm and less like the equestrian fantasy land it becomes every July. At least until next year…

The Event at Rebecca Farm (Kalispell, MT) [Website] [Results]

Ian Stark’s Final Rebecca Farm Cross Country Shakes Up Standings

By on Jul 21, 2024 10:23 am -

A super day of FEI cross-country saw two leaders retain their places going into show jumping, while the standings in three divisions got shaken and stirred.

The course was the final one to be designed by the legendary Ian Stark. He had high praise for Rebecca Farm on every level and especially for the footing this year. His parting gift to riders and horses was plenty of challenges and options regarding striding and tracks. Ian urges all to ride the horse they have in the moment and to maintain balance. His courses rewarded those who embraced that.

Jennie Brannigan and Pascal Pursue the CCI4*-L Title

Jennie Brannigan and Pascal. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

In the CCI4*-L, Jennie Brannigan and Pascal busted Friday’s first-place tie with an easy-appearing clear jumping round, incurring only 2.4 time penalties. They have 2+ rails in hand taking a 36.2 score into Chris Barnard’s show jumping tomorrow.

The first water obstacle’s Snake, Bounce to Triple Brush at #6, the Water Pipe drop at #9, with water actually flowing over the pipe, and the Moose Bounces at #17 were among many imposing-looking obstacles that appeared to be no issue for the 9-year-old Holsteiner owned by the Pascal Syndicate.

Jennie considers Pascal a Team USA horse for the future. He’s only 9 but is stepping up the levels impressively. A regular traveler here from her East Coast base, Jennie explained, “I wanted to bring him here for his first 4* and I tried my best to put the pedal down.”

She began competing at Rebecca Farm while based in California years ago and has so many friends and supporters here, “it feels like coming home,” she said. Receiving the Rebecca Broussard Developing Rider Grant in 2016 was a pivotal point in her international career and one of several reasons Rebecca Farm holds a special place in her heart and on her competition calendar.

As the winners of last year’s CCI3*-L, Jennie and Pascal hope to lock the CCI4*-L on Sunday.

Ashley Adams and Roderick Stuart’s Charly moved from 3rd into 2nd with clear jumping and 10.8 time penalties. With 5 left in the field, they take a 46.2 score into show jumping.

Dani Sussman and her own Jos Bravio are third, on a 67.7, ahead of Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy on a 69.2. Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14 fell out of the first-place tie after dressage, after a refusal and significant time penalties in their first outing at the level.

With $30,000 in prize money, there’s plenty to play for in show jumping. This phase at Rebecca Farm is famously fickle, so anything could happen.

Just to Be Clear & Alexa Thompson take CCI4*-S Lead

Kentucky-based Alexa Thompson and her groom Hannah Warner volunteered as crossing guards earlier in the week, cheering on all who passed. So maybe there was a little karma playing into their clear cross-country jumping and few enough time penalties, at 12, to bump up one notch into the lead.

“I have to admit, it wasn’t something I expected,” Alexa said of her standing. Her 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood’s performance was both pleasing and more predictable. “I went out trying to get both of us as confident and happy and to be as smooth as we could be. Ian (Stark) is a master. The questions the course asked early on got ‘Cardi’ thinking and on my aids, so we could be smoother at the back end of the course.

“The way Ian uses the hills and other terrain provides a good opportunity to ride off of instinct and less by the numbers.” Even a thrown shoe early on the course didn’t faze her horse. “I’m so pleased with how smart, brave and confident he was.”

Alexa and Just to Be Clear have a two-rail lead going into stadium jumping. Rebecca Farm-based Jen Moody and Eye Of the Storm logged a solid cross-country to advance from 4th to 2nd, where they stand on a 59.3 in the hunt for the CCI3*-S’s $6,000 in prize money. Cristina Rennie and her own Flight Of The Arabasque are third.

Marc Grandia and GHS Calexico and Sophie Click and Quidproquo were clear on course, with time penalties that have them sitting 4th and 5th, respectively. The leader after dressage, Rachel Brickman, unfortunately, was eliminated following refusals.

Megan McIver and Elle Sit Atop the CCI3*-L

Megan McIver and Elle. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Megan McIver and Tally Chang’s 12-year-old Holsteiner, Elle, jumped into the lead with a double clear cross-country. The Northern California professional can’t take credit for making the time. “She just naturally carries that pace,” shared Megan. “She’s easy to set up for the fences, she goes in a loose ring snaffle and doesn’t really pull.”

Like several other riders, Megan praised Ian Stark’s course, especially for the questions and answers it evoked in the beginning to help produce a nice middle and end for horse and rider. “Ian’s courses reward you for staying in a nice balance, and that suits a small horse like Elle very well.”

The seasoned pair’s 33 dressage score leaves little wiggle room and they have two tough contenders on their heels.

That’s James Alliston and Cora, the 9-year-old Hanoverian who incurred no faults or time penalties to slide into 2nd, and Helen Alliston and Call Me Rudi, the 9-year-old Bavarian Warmblood. Cora was double clear to stay on her 36.1 dressage, and Rudi added 6 time penalties to slip to third on a 36.7.

Both horses are owned by the couple’s Alliston Equestrian. It’s a thriving business in Northern California and the base for James’ recent top American finish at the CHIO Aachen with Carma, last year’s CCI4*-L champion at Rebecca Farm.

Helen is intensely competitive, but yesterday she said her main goal was to give Rudi a confidence-building ride, and she accomplished that.

Tamie Smith and Sumas Tina Turner Lead the CCI3*-S

Tamie Smith and Sumas Tina Turner. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Tamie Smith is a master at faster without looking like it, and that came into play bringing Sumas Tina Turner into the lead with a double clear cross-country. They were the only pair to make the time in this division and it moved them up from third on their 27.9 dressage score. Owned by one of Tamie’s long-time owners, Julianne Guariglia, the 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse is small, strong, feisty and fast and a rising star.

Tamie and Molly Duda’s Carlingsford Hes a Clover retained their 2nd seed with 6.8 time penalties that put them on a 33.

Taren Hoffos and her mother Caroline’s beautiful homebred mare Regalla leapt from 12th to 3rd. The Southern California professional and the 13-year-old Oldenburg looked confident and smooth, adding just 2.4 time penalties to enter show jumping on a 34.7.

Friday’s leader Tommy Greengard said he might not put pedal to metal today with he and Andrea Pfeiffer’s Thats Me Z, a 7-year-old Zangershiede. They have a big fall ahead with three months of training and competing in Europe, so a solid confidence-building round was the order today. 10.4 time penalties put them in 4th on a 40.8 for tomorrow’s finalé.

Stephanie Goodman and Elwinda DP Stay Atop the CCI2*-L

Stephanie Goodman and Deanna Briggs’ Elwinda DP were the second pair to maintain their division lead after double clear cross-country to stay on their 26.7 dressage score. However,ut it’s another tightly grouped leaderboard in which one rail could drastically change things up.

The Idaho professional’s goal going into cross-country was to “go as quick as we can, while being mindful of the heat and the length of the course.” Originally a dressage horse, Elwinda is not known for speed, but in every outing she keeps “amazing me,” and today was no exception.

Busy James Alliston is close behind the leader. With Anna Nicholas’ HMR Rolan, he’s 2nd on a 27.1, and he’s third with Carolyn Colson’s Renaissance Man on a 29.3.

Tori Traube and HSH Chase de Muze Top USEA Classic Series Novice Three Day

Northern California professional Tori Traube was thrilled to both compete in and to win this division that incorporates eventing’s traditional endurance day with roads and tracks, steeplechase and cross-country. She and Sheryl Ehrlich’s HSH Chase de Muze led from the start and added only one jumping rail to their dressage score, finishing on a 31.9.

“This was such a good life experience for Chase,” she said of the 5-year-old Irish Sport Horse. “It was great for him to do the jobs and he positively surprised me how well he did in the endurance phases. I think he grew and learned a lot. I especially like the partnership that emerges when we spend so much time together out there on our own. There were times when he was asking me, ‘Do we have to keep going?’ But he trusted me and it helped us have a good bond.”

It was also “a lot of fun and a lot of work,” Tori said.

Sara Sellmer and Samantha Quinn’s Curious George were second on a 36.7 and Michaela Aulicino and her own Cecelia were third with a 39.9.

Erin Grandia and Riptide Rio Win USEA Classic Series Training Three Day

Erin Grandia and Adriane Jimenez’ Riptide Rio started the multi-phase competition with a 21.1 dressage score and they added just .4 penalties in the D endurance phase for a wire-to-wire win with the 7-year-old Irish Sport Horse.

Partners with her husband Marc Grandia in Full Gallop Eventing in Washington, Erin said she loves the Classic 3Day format. She has coached several students through it but hasn’t contested one herself in many years.

“It’s such a great education and way to get horses confident for the future,” Erin said. “It teaches horses and riders how to gallop, to jump out of stride and to dig in when you’re a little tired.”

Tamie Smith and the 6-year-old Argentine Sport Horse Solaguayre Cantata, owned by Julianne Guariglia, were reserve champs on a 23.3. Emma Slocum and Jaime Slocum’s Patito, an 11-year-old Irish Draught Sport Horse, finished third on 29.6.

Sunday’s FEI Schedule

CCI2*-L – 9:30 am

CCI3*-S – 11:45 am

CCI3*-L – 12:45 pm

CCI4*-S – 2:00 pm

CCI4*-L – 2:35 pm

The Event at Rebecca Farm: [Website] [Entries] [Competitor Information] [Volunteer] [Halt Cancer at X] [Ride On Video Live Stream] [H&C Live Stream] [Live Stream Schedule] [Spectator Information]

Dressage Sets Stage for Exciting Cross-Country at Rebecca Farm

By on Jul 20, 2024 10:10 am -

Jennie Brannigan and Pascal. Photo by Marie Cobb for Shannon Brinkman Photography.

FEI dressage wrapped up on Friday, leaving most of the standings tight at the top. In fact, there’s a tie atop the CCI4*-L between two pairs with many similarities. Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14 and Jennie Brannigan and Pascal share the lead on a 33.8. Both have been bringing these horses along for several years and both horses are debuting at this level.

Karen O’Neal and Annika Asling’s 10-year-old Westphalian showed off their progress since competing Beginner Novice here in 2018. The Washington-based rider was thrilled with Clooney’s shoulder-in and half-passes and with the flying changes that have been a struggle. Despite Clooney’s familiarity with the venue, the atmosphere in Ring 1 made him “a little spooky, but still he listened really well to me.”

Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14. Photo by Marie Cobb for Shannon Brinkman Photography.

The judges were Helen Brettell, Robyn Fisher and Gretchen Butts, who also judged Friday’s CCI4*-S and CCI3*-L.

Jennie Brannigan and Pascal, a 9-year-old Holsteiner owned by the Pascal Syndicate, were last year’s CCI3*-L winners, and Jennie acknowledged feeling a little extra umph to take this next title. Her favorite part of Friday’s test was the manifestation of many years work in developing Pascal.

Above all, she is a huge advocate for Rebecca Farm, making the trip annually from her East Coast base and encouraging others to do so.

Rebecca Farm first-timer Ashley Adams, of Virginia, and Roderick Stuart’s Charly earned a 35.4 to sit third.

A Course Walk To Remember

Friday ended with a special course walk led by renowned and retiring course designer, Ian Stark. In a special event honoring horse owners, the USEF invited guests to tour the course by golf cart and enjoy the legend’s insights. He was the loudest of many to praise the ground and the year-round efforts that have gone into making the tracks “the best ever.”

As he discussed key points on the 3* and 4* courses for Saturday, Ian shared his frequent advice to forget about counting strides in favor of riding what comes up in the moment. “Horses love to know where they’re going,” he stressed. “So show them that. I don’t mind causing the riders a sleepless night, so long as the horses can understand what the question is.”

Brickman and Finally DG lead CCI4*-S

Rachel Brickman and Finally DG. Photo by Marie Cobb for Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Several of the 8 horses in this division are new to the level, and the atmosphere and new questions asked played their part in the scores.

Rachel Brickman and Finally DG are among the newbies as a pair, and their 35.1 put them into the lead.

The Seattle area resident and the 14-year-old Dutch Warmblood are Rebecca Farm regulars over the last several years, so the big atmosphere was not an issue. “While there’s always room for improvement, he was excellent today,” said Rachel of the horse she co-owns with friend and The Event organizer Sarah Broussard.

“The course looks great and I am excited to get out there,” Rachel said of Saturday’s cross-country. She plans to tackle it one fence at a time. “Him being new to this level, I’m going to ride the horse I have. He’s an animal that shows up and tries to do the things you ask him to do.”

On the recommendation of several friends, Kentucky-based Alexa Thompson loaded Just To Be Clear into the truck and hauled across country for The Event. Her second place standing, on a 39.1, was icing on a cake she already felt good about upon arrival.

“You could call my horse a ‘try-harder’,” Alexa said of her 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood. “He always wants to do right, and sometimes too badly, but today I felt like he was with me the whole test. I took my leg away going into the walk, and that was our only bobble.”

Rebecca Farm has been on the young professional’s radar a long time. Over the years, the Broussard family has given over $200,000 in Travel Grants to riders and Alexa was one of several to gratefully receive one this year. “With that, the stars finally aligned for us to make the trip.”

Another Alliston Takes Spotlight with CCI3*-L Lead

Helen Alliston and Call Me Rudi. Photo by Marie Cobb for Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Three-time Rebecca Farm 4*-L champion James Alliston has dominated the limelight lately, but it was his better half, Helen, spotlit in the CCI3*-L dressage. She and Call Me Rudi, a 9-year-old Bavarian Warmblood owned by Alliston Equestrian, were elegant, on point and powerful to lead the 10-horse field with a 30.7.

It was the latest of a few outings in which Rudi has continually upped his game, reported the Northern California-based professional. “He’s always been very willing, and he has a good mind. It’s been a matter of getting him stronger. This and his last show were the first time that he’s done really correct canter-to-walk transitions. Plus, he’s never been in Arena 1 before. It has a lot of atmosphere and, even with his good mind, it was really something for him to stay that focused.”

Rudi is equally good on cross-country, but tomorrow’s track will test his courage, especially jumping into big waters. “I’m going to have to give him a very good ride,” Helen said. “He’s only been here once – in Novice. He’s green for this, but his footwork is excellent, he’s very smart and he has a lot of self-preservation instinct.” Access to on-site conditioning hills at the Alliston’s home base has Rudi fighting fit for the next task.

Ashley Adams and her own 9-year-old Swedish Warmblood Quicksilver Gräns stand in 2nd with a 31.9. Receiving one of the Broussard family’s “Little Becky” Grants early this year helped them gain mileage needed to make a solid move up to the 3* level this spring.

Based in Virginia, Ashley was also grateful for tips from another Broussard grant recipient, Tamie Smith. “She suggested some tweaks that really agreed with my horse,” Ashley said. “He’s a quirky horse, but also workmanlike and he does not want to make a mistake. He’s green at the level, and there’s a lot more brilliance in there. So, it’s a matter of getting him stronger and more confident.”

Cross-country should be a great next step in that process. “Ian’s courses lend themselves to the horse getting better and better as we go along.”

Marc Grandia and his longtime partner Campari FFF sit third on a 32.5. The 14-year-old Holsteiner is owned by Team Rebecca.

Stephanie Goodman and Elwinda Hold CCI2*-L Lead

Stephanie Goodman and Deanna Briggs’ Elwinda DP topped the first half of the 34-horse division that concluded yesterday and their 26.7 held when the rest of the class completed this morning.

“She is getting better and better,” Stephanie said of the 14-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare with whom she’s been partnered for three years. “We left a few points on the table, but she was excellent. She’s braver and is going for it more.

“I got her three years ago as a dressage horse,” continued the Idaho-based professional. “She just keeps amazing me.”

Stephanie and Elwinda don’t have much wiggle room. James Alliston and HMR Rolan, owned by Anna Nicolas, are 2nd on a 27.1. Todd Trewin and Tracey Trewin’s Cooley High Society are 3rd with a 29.1 and the rest of the top 10 is tightly bunched.

Saturday’s FEI Cross-Country

CCI3*-S – 8:00 am

CCI3*-L – 9:40 am

CCI4*-L – 10:40 am

CCI4*-S – 11:25 am

CCI2*-L – 12:25 pm

The USEA’s Classic Series Three-Day at Training and Novice conclude with show jumping finales on Saturday.

The Event at Rebecca Farm: [Website] [Entries] [Competitor Information] [Volunteer] [Halt Cancer at X] [Ride On Video Live Stream] [H&C Live Stream] [Live Stream Schedule] [Spectator Information]

Greengard and Smith Kickstart The Event at Rebecca Farm

By on Jul 19, 2024 9:30 am -

Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z. Photo by Marie Cobb Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z sit atop the CCI3*S, the first of The Event at Rebecca Farm’s five FEI divisions to conclude the dressage phase. The second half of the 34-horse CCI2*-Long field will be staged Friday, along with dressage for CCI4*-Long and Short, and the CCI3*-Long.

That’s Me Z is owned by Chocolate Horse Farm’s Andrea Pfeiffer. The 7-year-old Zangershiede jumped into the national spotlight as the USEA’s Young Event Horse 5-Year-Old Champion and has ticked all the advancing boxes since then.

This is Z’s second year at Rebecca Farm, following last year’s Preliminary outing. “If anything, I think he grew a little bit in this atmosphere,” Tommy reported of their 25.2 effort from judges Valerie Pride, Sara Miller Leary and Christel Carlson. “When he was younger, he’d get quite shy in the bigger rings. It’s exciting to have him take ahold of the bridle and show off his great gaits in the ring.

“He’s been doing exactly what we ask in his training at this point,” Tommy continued. “He showed that in the ring.”

Tommy and Z have a big Fall planned. They’ll head to England next week to spend three months riding with New Zealand Olympic eventers Tim and Jonelle Price. Doing well here was part of the plan for a hopeful appearance with Z at the FEI WBFSH Eventing World Championships in France later this year and today’s performance is a great waypoint on that journey.

The young Northern California professional is excited about the CCI3*-S cross-country on Saturday. “It looks very good and I always love Ian Stark’s courses. It’s a great test for Z and where he’s at right now.”

Having ridden Rebecca Farm’s routes several times, Tommy especially appreciates the efforts to differentiate between the questions asked of Intermediate, CCI3*-Long and Short contenders. “That’s very special to Rebecca Farm. Not every venue is able to do as great a job at that as they do.”

Tamie and Calingsford Hes a Clover. Photo by Marie Cobb for Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Tamie Smith had been on a likely path to the Paris Olympics until a minor mishap with her top horse, Mai Baum, prevented them from being in peak form for the U.S. Team’s mandatory outing.  The upside for fans is that she re-routed to Rebecca Farm and the California-based 2023 Land Rover Kentucky 5* champion is making the most of it.

She and Molly Duda’s 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse, Carlingfords Hes A Clover, earned a 26.2 to sit second after CCI3*-S dressage. Tamie is in third, too, with Julianne Guariglia’s Sumas Tina Turner, an 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse, who earned a 27.9.

Tamie is “ecstatic and over the moon” with both new rides. Riding Carlingfords Hes a Clover for his injured young rider, Tamie said his flatwork has been a challenging and rewarding focus. “He can be quite cheeky and I was thrilled with him today.”

“Tina Turner is a bit of a work in progress,” she explained. “We’ve been working hard to gel with her and to let her be the powerful horse that she is. She’s a chestnut mare and she’s named Tina Turner!”

Saturday’s cross-country presents plenty to do, and looks “up to the standard and fair,” Tamie said. It starts with the challenge of galloping away from the barns out of the start box, an issue for some of the lower level pairs today.

The cross-country footing is the best Tamie has ever seen it in many years coming to Rebecca Farm. “When you imagine the many miles of tracks they have to tend, it’s no small feat. They have really stepped it up and figured out how to make the ground the best it can be.”

The Hills Are Alive…

Rebecca Farm’s green hills and landscape were alive throughout the day with Novice and Beginner Novice pairs zooming over cross-country.

Fans began arriving and the Shopping Fair was abuzz with its first of four days full of gift items, equestrian apparel and gear and great food.

Speaking to a visiting television reporter, The Event’s organizer Sarah Broussard shared her pleasure in The Event’s wide-ranging impact. The competition was founded by her late mother, Rebecca Broussard, largely to help West Coast-based eventers have a high-quality competition and the opportunity to prepare for further international campaigns.

The Event quickly became a renowned fixture in the equestrian community.

Supporting the local community is important, too, hence the Halt Cancer at X campaign. “We started in in 2012 as a one-time thing, and we raised $20,000,” Sarah explained. “I thought, ‘Wow!”  Since then, Halt Cancer At X, administered by Montana Equestrian Events, has passed the $1 million mark in grants and supporting research to halt breast cancer and help those coping with it.

Hot Competition & Weather

Misting fan tents feature for horses and riders to cool down. Kim Miller photo.

Temperatures in the 90s added an extra challenge for horses and riders, but it’s one that most are accustomed to and prepared for. Water stations throughout the property help horses, people and dogs stay hydrated, trees and tents provide shade and a gentle breeze has kept things relatively comfortable.

FEI Associate Veterinarian Catherine Kohn, DVM, is one of several seasoned competition officials on site. She explained that the effect of heat is a combination of the ambient temperature, the wind and the humidity.

Kalispell enjoys low humidity, which is a big help in cooling horses after exercise.

Harnessing the power of “conduction” is key to cooling horses down after exertion. The misting fans that await horses (and riders) near the cross-country finish line are a welcome assist in lowering body temperatures. “The cold water transfers the heat from the horse’s skin to the water,” Dr. Kohn explained. “It accepts the heat and takes it off the horse.”

Most competitors are experienced in preparing, competing and helping their equine partners recover in hot weather. For the less experienced, there are many expert advisers and observers present.

Friday’s Action (MST)

CCI2*-L Dressage 8:00 am (second half of the field)

CCI3*-L Dressage 10:50 am

CCI4*-S Dressage 1:30 pm

CCI4*-L Dressage 3:30 pm

The live stream schedule is as follows (links for the free live stream are below):

 The USEA’s Classic Series Three-Day at the Training and Novice levels continue Friday, starting at 9:25 am, and Horse Trials competition continues.

The Event at Rebecca Farm: [Website] [Entries] [Competitor Information] [Volunteer] [Halt Cancer at X] [Ride On Video Live Stream] [H&C Live Stream] [Live Stream Schedule] [Spectator Information]

 

Coming Soon: The Event at Rebecca Farm Begins July 17

By on Jul 12, 2024 9:30 am -

2023 Rebecca Farm CCI4*-L winners James Alliston and Karma. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Often described as “Disneyland for equestrians,” The Event at Rebecca Farm, presented by non-profit Montana Equestrian Events, Inc., gets underway Wednesday, July 17 with contenders coming from both coasts and all points in between.

The Event runs July 17-21 at Rebecca Farm in Kalispell, Montana and features eventing competition up to CCI4*-L, plus Training and Novice Three-Day divisions. Spectators are welcome at no charge, volunteers are greatly appreciated and a vibrant vendor area provides shopping opportunities galore.

Big Challenges & Atmosphere

James Alliston and Karma. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Three-time CCI4*-L winner James Alliston agrees with the Disneyland description in general but clarifies that there’s nothing Mickey Mousey about The Event’s competitive aspects.

“It’s one of the best 4*-Ls around,” says James, fresh from helping Team USA to silver at the Aachen SAP-Cup CCIO4*-S with Karma, his partner in topping The Event’s 4*-L last year.

Rebecca Farm is set on the green grass of Flathead Valley, the peaks of Glacier National Park and Whitefish and Blacktail mountains standing sentry in the distance.

On course, however, it’s the obstacles that demand horse and rider’s attention. “It’s a great class to see if you have a 4* horse capable of going onto the 5* level,” James notes. “The course is challenging, yet fair, as you would expect from designer Ian Stark. The jumps are big, with a lot of big jumps going into the water.” Each obstacle is a work of art, he adds. “They are incredibly constructed, painted and decorated at all levels.”

There’s no let-up in the atmosphere for the stadium jumping finalés. The Event regularly draws 5,000 fans, many of them filling the grassy banks surrounding the show jumping stage. “It’s a big, impressive atmosphere. It’s nice to ride in front of a lot of people, and you need a horse that show jumps well.”

James and his wife and professional partner Helen Alliston campaign Cora and Call Me Rudi, respectively, in the CCI3*-L this year. Plus other horses and several clients in various divisions.

The Event at Rebecca Farm started in 2002 and quickly became a fixture for North American eventers and fans. Along with elite level eventing action, the spectacular settting, buzzy vendor area and the weekend Kid Zone make The Event a Mecca for new and existing horse sport fans everywhere.

“We are really excited to have everybody back,” says event organizer Sarah Broussard. “We’ve made a few changes to give some of our riders a new experience – new paths for the roads and tracks and using some parts of the Farm that haven’t been used before.

“The flags are up, the canola flowers are in bloom and the countdown has begun!”

Broad Impact

USEA CEO Robert Burk in the Halt Cancer at X Challenge. Photo by Shannon Brinkman, official photographer of The Event at Rebecca Farm.

The Event’s impact goes beyond the horse world with Halt Cancer at X. The charitable initiative was launched in 2012 by the Event’s organizer Sarah Broussard in honor of her late mother, Rebecca Broussard, who founded the competition in 2002.

Through Halt Cancer at X, Montana Equestrian Events has so far provided more than $1 million in grant funds to innovative breast cancer research projects and to local non-profits that offer financial and wellness services to breast cancer patients. Those interested in making donations can do so here.

The Event also makes a year-round impact on equestrian sport with generous grant programs.

The Rebecca Broussard Developing Rider Grants began in 2011. They are administered by the US Eventing Association in honor of Rebecca “Becky” Broussard’s legacy of commitment to assisting and encouraging riders pursuing the sport’s highest levels.

The Rebecca Broussard International Developing Rider Grant, aka the “Big Becky,” awards $50,000 to an international quality rider and the “Little Becky” National Developing Rider Grant awards $10,000 to riders on a similar path.

The Rebecca Farm Travel Grant provides funds to defray the costs of traveling to The Event.

A Legacy of Support

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Texas-based Rebecca Brown is a past Little Becky Grant recipient and one of this year’s several Travel Grant recipients.

“I am so grateful to the Broussard family and so happy to be going to an event supported by a family that gives so much back to the sport and in the unique way of targeting developing riders,” she says. That ranks high on the Texas professional’s long list of reasons for hauling horses 1,800 miles to Montana.

“It’s definitely one of the top 5 competitions in the United States,” asserts Rebecca, who rides Fernhill Quite Frankly in the CCI3*-S. “Every level is a good challenge. If you are hoping to go on in the sport, and to produce horses, like I am, it’s a great atmosphere to compete in.”

This sentiment is shared by eventers at all levels. Rebecca will also be hauling a horse owned by an amateur client who set The Event’s Beginner Novice division as this year’s big goal.

“It’s definitively worth the drive,” Rebecca concludes. And, with truck diesel likely to run up a $2,000 tab for the round-trip from Texas, this year’s Travel Grant eases some of the financial pressure on the self-supported rider.

Volunteers Welcome

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Given the multiple levels of competition and their multiple phases, The Event relies on a large number of volunteers to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for all.

There is a perfect post for most ages and abilities and roles range from assisting in the arenas or on the cross-country course, to spectator parking, hospitality, food services and pedestrian crossings. Volunteering at The Event is famously fun and no experience is required for most positions.

Volunteering info and sign-ups can be found here.

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Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z Top Galway Downs Preliminary Challenge

By on May 16, 2024 2:30 pm -

Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Young professional Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z added this year’s Galway Downs Preliminary Challenge title to their two years of ongoing successes in the sport.

Launched in 2009, the Challenge is a West Coast fixture on the spring eventing circuit – giving horses and riders a step-up opportunity with slightly more difficult dressage and show jumping demands.

Equally important, the Challenge showcases its stars in front of a full VIP Pavilion in the buzzy party atmosphere of the Grand Prix Arena. It’s great for testing horses in an exciting environment and it’s festive and fun for exhibitors and fans.

The Preliminary Challenge ran concurrent with the Galway Downs Spring Horse Trials, May 10-12 at the Galway Downs Equestrian Center in Southern California’s Temecula Valley Wine Country. A lovely Mothers Day brunch carried the celebratory vibe into Sunday.

Tommy rides for Chocolate Horse Farm and he and Chocolate Horse’s owner Andrea Pfeiffer own “Z” together. The pair splashed onto the scene in 2022 as the top scorers, nationally, in the USEF Young Event Horse 5-Year-Old Championships and haven’t looked back.

With Intermediate mileage under Z’s belt already, the Challenge’s questions were easily answered in all three phases. After their 27.7 dressage start – from judges Michelle Henry and Carolyn Lindholm – the pair was flawless the rest of the way over cross-country designed by Rob Mobley and Alessandra Allen-Shin and show jumping designed by Chris Barnard.

The bigger priority was giving the Zangersheide 7-year-old more exposure to the Saturday night lights and atmosphere of the show jumping finalé. Neither that, nor the first time show jumping after cross-country, phased the talented horse. “He’s always been a very confident, special horse to bring along,” Tommy said of their two years together.

The Challenge has consistently offered $15,000 in cash and prizes and emphasized special awards presentations and parties to mark the achievements of all.

This year, exhibitors received gifts from Devoucoux, RevitaVet and the Arma line from Shires Equestrian. Devoucoux and CWD provided the top horse and rider a generous basket of approximately $1,500 worth of bridles, reins, martingale, show boots, etc…

Tommy’s Third Win


Tommy first rode in the Preliminary Challenge four years ago, and this year marks his third win. His own 4* partner, Joshua MBF, was his first winning ride. And another Young Event Horse superstar owned by the Chocolate Horse partners, Leonardo Diterma, was also crowned champ with Tommy in the irons.

This year, Tommy also finished 6th with I’m All In, a 6-year-old German Sport Horse that is newer to the level.

“It’s huge to get this level of atmosphere,” Tommy remarked. “It’s great for any event horse. We love the Preliminary Challenge and we encourage everybody to do it.”

Tommy refuses to “get all balled up about” about future plans, but the hope for Z is the FEI World Championships for Young Horses in France this fall. It’s a long ways off, he emphasized, but next steps include additional 3* mileage in Washington state and at Rebecca Farms, Montana, this summer. Receiving the USET Foundation’s Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant this year is making extra preparation possible.

Chocolate Horse Farm’s enthusiasm for the Challenge led to six stablemates entering the line-up. One of them is 2023 USEF Eventing Young Rider Championships team silver medalist Greylin Booth, who finished third overall and as the Top Rider.

Greylin and Quick Quinn, a 7-year-old Holsteiner, stayed on their 33.8 dressage score. (Greylin and professional Bec Braitling tied on that final score, with the closest to optimum cross-country time breaking the tie in Greylin’s favor.)

“It was so fun,” said Greylin, a high school junior who also finished 11th with Modesto RE. “Both of my horses are coming 7, and we picked the Preliminary Challenge for its format. We knew it would be a good experience to show jump in that amount of atmosphere and the dressage test is harder than anything I’d experienced.”

She loved the “incredibly fun, open” cross-country track. “Quinn is so brave and honest and I was able to let him go in some of the stretches, and he still had energy for show jumping. I am really pleased with how well he handled the atmosphere and focused on his job.”

As for her own nerves in that environment, Greylin said she benefited from a similar experience during last fall’s USEF Eventing Young Riders Championships, presented by USEA. Breath work and visualization techniques have been a big help, too. Above all, Andrea Pfeiffer and Tommy Greengard and the Chocolate Horse team have prepared her and her horses for confident progress.

The Galway Downs CCI 2*-L this fall is penciled in for both of Greylin’s horses. “I’m super excited about that and I also believe in letting the horses tell me what they want to do so we ensure good experiences.”

Bec Braitling, the California-based Australian international rider, took 4th place overall with Elliot V, one of two horses she rode in the Challenge for friend Tamie Smith.

A Warrior Rises

Southern California professional and Galway Downs regular Auburn Excell Brady rode the 7-year-old BSP Boudica to top horse honors. Like all three top finishers, they added nothing to their dressage effort – in this case a 29.5.

Auburn was thrilled with the KWPN mare’s outing – from the sand box to show jumping.

“This dressage test is more stop and go and for a horse like her, it’s kind of ‘in your face.’ Except for not working on the rein back enough, I’m pleased that I’d actually gotten her to where she knew what things were happening. She was confident and not put off by me.”

This pair has come a long way since Boudica came to Auburn in the fall of 2022 as a sales horse. “She was never an easy ride, but I finally started getting along with her.” A “come to Jesus” lesson with Ian Stark last summer helped turn the tide, she reported.

At the suggestion of Auburn’s husband, the mare’s name was changed to that of a notorious Celtic warrior. “Maybe I’m superstitious, but I think that might have helped, too!”

Competing regularly at Galway Downs helped put the mare at ease. And, fellow professional Taren Hoffos gave advice — “stop pulling on her” – that paid off over cross-country, Auburn added.

The Shows Go On…

Eventing competition at Galway Downs resumes with the he next recognized event, which will be the Oct. 30-Nov 3 Regional Championships and CCI-L that headline another fixture in the West – Galway Downs’ fall international competition.

Nilforushan Equisport Events stages high-level hunter/jumper competition, going on now through early June, then again in October. Shows in various disciplines keep the Galway Downs calendar full, with the June 14-16 Cheers to Summer dressage competition as a new highlight.

Visit www.galwaydowns.net for more information, and sign-up for the monthly Galway Gazette newsletter to stay abreast of news from this premier equestrian venue.

Smith, Hoffos, McIver and Holland Win FEI Divisions at Galway Downs International

By on Mar 30, 2024 10:45 am -

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Horses and riders were undaunted by the condensed schedule mandated by Saturday’s heavy rain forecast. They embraced an unusually busy day of competition to close out the Galway Downs International Horse Trials with super sport and high spirits.

The CCI4*-S concluded as predicted. Tamie Smith and Mai Baum jumped clear and careful, with only a few time faults on cross-country. They retained their dominant lead after a 23 dressage score and double clean show jumping on Thursday.

The 18-year-old German Sport Horse was raring to go. “He was happy to be out of the start box, and pretty wild out there,” Tamie said of her longtime star owned by Alexandra Ahearn. The finish was perfect prep for the next phase in their hopeful Paris Olympic journey – the CCI4*-S at the Defender Kentucky Three Day Event in late April.

Young rider Molly Duda and Disco Traveler continued an impressive ascent in the sport, finishing 2nd in their 4* debut. They were third after dressage, dropped a rail in show jumping, then roared across cross-country as the only pair to make the time over Clayton Fredericks’ track.

A freshman at UCLA, Molly left the gate determined to make the time. “He’s the best cross-country horse I’ve ever ridden and I know I can open him up out there and have him come back to me. We’re both very competitive and we had a blast out there.”

Doing the U21 and U25 training camps over the winter built on the super successes this pair had last year. Molly also credited show jumping work with Tamie Smith and dressage coaching from Robyn Fisher as key to their continued rise.

Molly was also 4th in the 3* with a newer horse, Carlingfords Hes A Clover, a 12 year old Irish Sport Horse. “Tommy” lives in the Bay Area with Mickayla Howard, who brought Molly up to the 3* level. Juggling a pre-med academic track, Molly is a time management master. “I compete and go to college full time. Both are really important to me. It’s a lot, but I love it!”

Rebecca Farm CCI4*-L is the next big goal for Molly and Disco Traveler, a 15-year-old Swedish Warmblood.

Bec Braitling was thrilled to finish third with Arnell Sporthorse’s Caravaggio II, a 13-year-old British Sport Horse. They are prepping for the Defender Kentucky CCI5*-L after gathering useful experience campaigning in Europe last summer. Today’s finish adds to their reserve champion result in the CCI4*-L at Galway Downs last fall.

Pace was Bec’s priority on cross-country. Incurring only 1.6 time penalties allowed them to move up from 6th after dressage to third. And that was even with a new noseband that gave the California-based Australian “more whoa than I wanted.”

Bec loved the track built by fellow Aussie, Clayton Fredericks. “I thought it would ride more twisty. But it was smooth and really fun to ride.”

She liked the re-shuffled schedule, too, with 4*-S dressage and show jumping on Thursday. “It makes it busy, but I loved being able to work on the fitness aspect of it for him.”

Emilee Libby and Toska added 10.8 cross-country time penalties to their dressage score to land 4th overall.

A rising star in Tamie Smith’s string, Kynan, finished 5th and felt “incredible, strong and so rideable,” she said. Another of Tamie’s mounts, Elliot V, had a tougher day — falling from 4th after show jumping, to elimination with three cross-country refusals. At the end of the day, Tamie said the 15-year-old Dutch Warmblood is probably telling her that 3* is his happy place.

Hoffos & Regalla Top the 3*

Taren Hoffos and Regalla. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Taren Hoffos and Regalla accomplished important goals in logging a wire-to-wire win of the CCI3*-S. This pair won the CCI2*-S in 2022, the CCI3*-S last year and this year they defended their title by finishing on their dressage score — a 32 — and under the cross-country time allowed for the first time at this level.

“Riding a smooth track, taking good lines and trusting her that I don’t need to set her up as much as I might think I do,” were keys to their winning effort, Taren said.

The forward mentality started with dressage. “Bec Braitling and I have been talking about FEI trends toward judges really wanting to see you ride forward – to put your hands forward and go. And I think that carries over.”

Show jumping has been “a struggle” in the past, but it was double clear over Marc Donovan’s route today. Taren had ridden in the Ingrid Klimke clinic here in December, where a crowd of 800 auditors buzzed the already electric Grand Prix Arena vibe. Taren thought the exposure contributed to Regalla’s focus in the same ring this morning for show jumping. “It was really valuable to ride in that atmosphere and that kind of pressure, but in a fun and positive way.”

Next on the 13-year-old Oldenburg mare’s agenda is moving up to Advanced at Twin Rivers in April.

Megan McIver and Elle, a 12-year-old Holsteiner, stayed on their 32.7 dressage to finish second. Bred by owner Tally Chang, the 15.3-hand mare is 70% Thoroughbred and “loves” cross-country, Megan explained.

“I could barely keep her in the start box she because was bouncing around with excitement,” said Megan. Once out of the box, they easily made the time to finish a close second. Elle goes in a snaffle, and “barely needs a touch to bring her back,” Megan said. “I never have to look at my watch to know she’s making the time.”

Elle’s sensitivity made dressage a challenge in the early days of their partnership. Megan credits Tamie Smith with coaching that clicked for the dressage court, plus ongoing work with Anke Herbert at her Northern California base. The Advanced Combined Test at Twin Rivers will be next for Elle. “She’s feeling like the 3* is too easy!”

Auburn Excell Brady and Galliard Lancer proved themselves a new pair to reckon with. They stayed on their 34.2 dressage to finish third.

McIver & Igor B Top the Parker Equine Insurance CCI2*-S

Megan McIver and Igor. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

All three phases of the Parker Equine Insurance CCI2*-S and the CCI1*-S took place today.

After two phases in the 3* with Elle, Megan McIver turned to a newer ride, Igor B, an 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood, for this division. They moved up one rung with each phase to win on a 31.7.

Igor came from the U.K. with 4* experience, purchased by Leo Wang help Megan pursue her international goals. They first ran Training Level at Twin Rivers three weeks ago, then felt fine to advance to the 2* here. “But I didn’t expect to win!”

Young rider Hanni Sreenan and Ebenholtz were tied for 6th after their 28.4 dressage, then went clear in stadium and added 3.6 time penalties to finish 2nd. The result keeps this pair in the news after their USEF CCI2*-L National Championship and USEF Young Rider CCI2*-L National Championships at the Eventing Championships at Galway Downs in November.

Amber Birtcil and the 7-year-old Dutch Warmblood Mississippi went double clear on show jumping and cross-country to leap into 3rd place.

Holland and Joshua Tree Win the CCI1*-S

Fiona Holland and Joshua Tree. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Fifteen-year-old Fiona Holland and Joshua Tree, a 10-year-old Holsteiner, continued to establish themselves as a pair for the future. They won their first 1* by staying on a 27.5 dressage score.

Fiona aspires to the top of the sport and credits work with Tamie Smith, Kaylawna Smith-Cook and Bec Braitling for her auspicious outing today. That’s on top of riding on her own and weekly lessons with Julie Corlett in her Santa Ynez home area.

“We are both learning and I am stoked that we were able to take this step up together,” Fiona said.

Lauren Billys Shady and new ride Kingston 60 followed on a 29.6, and Grace Brownrigg and Dhaulagiri were third on a 31.2.

Ready For Rain

With the FEI divisions completed, the Horse Trials continue Saturday rain or not. The footing for all three phases of Galway Downs competition has proven its ability to withstand Mother Nature’s worst many times in recent years.

A festive dinner and awards ceremony closed out the international competition. Galway Downs organizer Robert Kellerhouse thanked exhibitors for their flexibility with the tightened-up schedule.

He expressed gratitude for the year-round support of Galway Downs’ sponsors. Robert welcomed Adequan’s Kat Kilcommons and Parker Equine Insurance’s Cheri Hubbert to help present the night’s awards.

Galway Downs International H.T. (Temecula, CA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer][Scoring] [Live Stream]

Tamie Smith The Star So Far in Galway Downs CCI4*-S

By on Mar 29, 2024 9:45 am -
Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Sherry Stewart. Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Mai Baum is 18. He’s hot. And he knows it.

The German Sport Horse and his 2023 Land Rover Kentucky 5* champion partner, Tamie Smith, established a distant lead in dressage — scoring a 23 — in the Galway Downs International Horse Trials CCI4*-S.

With a rainy weekend forecast causing dressage and show jumping to be held on the same day in this division, the pair held that lead by easily clearing the jumps within the time allowed.

Emilee Libby and the Dutch Warmblood Toska sit second, also clear in stadium jumping, to retain their 32.2 dressage score.

Tamie occupies two more top 5 spots going into Friday’s cross-country finalé. Kynan is third after today’s two phases, with a 34.7, and Elliot V, is fourth on a 36, after 1.5 time faults in show jumping.

Best Ever

“I think that was his best dressage ever,” Tamie said of Mai Baum’ effort.

Ground Jury president and judge Sandy Phillips concurred. “It was wonderful to see,” she said of their test. “That is the picture we are looking for, with uphill self-carriage and in balance. When I talk about balance at the 4* level, we want to see engagement of the hindquarters, so the horse can lift the front end.”

Mai Baum’s performance reflected both a continuation of Tamie’s program – in which she works with several dressage luminaries — and an extra dose of forward emphasis, courtesy of British eventing legend Ian Stark. “I know not everybody would think of Ian for the flat work, but he really helped with the forward for all my horses.”

“I have a dressage background and I think we can tend to ride almost with a little bit of a backwards feeling,” Tamie continued. “Today Lexus was really forward and in front of my leg.” In short, “We’re just right with each other.”

That was true for show jumping, too, over Marc Donovan’s stout track. This was Mai Baum’s first eventing competition after earning individual third and team silver at CHIO Aachen last July. He prepped at show jumping and dressage competitions this year, and “was happy to be out here and running around” back in the eventing realm.

Mai Baum goes next to the Defender Kentucky Three Day Event in April, to run the CCI4*-S as a prep to peaking, hopefully, in Paris for the Olympics. “It’s about doing whatever is best for each horse,” Tamie explained. “Paris is going to be a very big test. I think some horses need to run a long format before and some don’t. I think it’s best for Lexus not to.”

Tamie was equally thrilled with Kynan, and Elliot V, both Dutch Warmbloods, and with two new horses. The Irish Sport Horse, Sumas Tina Turner, and the Selle Francais stallion, Pierre’s Farceur du Bochard, are 2nd and 4th in the CCI3*-S after dressage.

Asked about her deep string of high-quality horses, Tamie said, “I’m just going to keep enjoying it! It was a longer time that I had really difficult horses!”

Drilling The Dressage

Emilee Libby described Toska’s test as crossing a new threshold in rideability. “We’ve been drilling the dressage more this last month. I realized she can do 3, 4, 5 days of dressage in a row and get better. Sometimes a horse can get annoyed or tired of it, but she’s getting stronger and we’re putting those pieces together. She is starting to mentally come back to earth for me.”

Clean show jumping looked to be a breeze for the 15-year-old Dutch Warmblood. Emilee hopes that Toska will retain her new level of rideability over Clayton Fredericks’ cross-country course tomorrow. “Basically, though, she knows her job. I just need to point her in the right direction.”

Organizer Robert Kellerhouse’s crew, Galway’s officials and exhibitors are adept at working around the weather. With rains forecast to hit Saturday, this year’s CCI-Short became even shorter. The 3* and 4* were condensed to Thursday and Friday and the CCI1* and Parker Equine CCI2* will hold all three phases on Friday.

The 14-horse CCI3*-S field did dressage this afternoon, with Taren Hoffos and Regalla, an Oldenburg, sitting first on a 32 score. The pack is close. Tamie Smith and Sumas Tina Turner are second on a 32.6 and Megan McIver and Elle, a Holsteiner, sit third on a 32.7.

Cross country for the 4*-S begins today (Friday) at 9:30 am PST / 12:30 pm EST and will be live streamed here.

Galway Downs International H.T. (Temecula, CA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer][Scoring] [Live Stream]

West Coast Eventing Spotlight: Meet Course Designer Alessandra Allen-Shinn

By on Feb 7, 2024 9:30 am -

Photo courtesy of Alessandra Allen-Shinn.

Alessandra Allen-Shinn is outstanding in her field.

Literally.

As in, she’s happiest while out standing in the field – ideally, a cross-country field. Designing the course, building the obstacles, working the ground or galloping across it, the 3* eventer and USEF and FEI certified course designer and course builder is a rising star in the West Coast eventing world. She’s set on building 5* tracks and has the talent, determination and industry respect to get there.

“Ali” lives in Kalispell, Montana, where she is assistant trainer for Olympian Jil Walton. Jil’s stable, JARBA Farm, winters at Galway Downs and Ali comes with, caring for the horses, including her own. When she’s not riding or tending to them, she’s plotting new tracks, building new obstacles, and helping horse and property owners with range of small construction tasks.

Building jumps and related materials falls under Ali’s Ride-Sharp enterprise.

While based at Galway Downs, Ali loves her daily mix of running the barn, then hopping out onto cross-country with venue manager and competition organizer Robert Kellerhouse to plot next steps and possibilities.

Having earned her small “r” course design license from the US Equestrian Federation in 2018, Ali has been creating Preliminary and lower-level courses for Galway Downs for three years. Last fall, she earned her FEI Level 1 credentials, allowing her to design at the CCI1* and 2* levels, too.

She’s a regular in USEA Area VII, too, where she builds and designs for Arrowhead Horse Trials, Herron Park and private facilities. The Spring Gulch Horse Trials in Colorado and the Mill Creek Pony Club Horse Trials in Missouri are more events for whom Ali is designing courses.

At Galway Downs, Ali is excited about new fences for the lower-level tracks. The FEI routes have undergone constant additions and upgrades in the look, type and construction of the fences and now it’s the lower levels’ turn. Look for horse head rolltops to match those on the Advanced and Intermediate tracks this season and more nice additions.

One of Galway Downs’ ongoing missions is to make the “lower part” of the property – the cross-country course – as nice as the “upper part,” the Grand Prix Arena, VIP Pavilion and surrounding amenities. Ali’s ongoing work is a big part of that transformation.

How It Started

Ali in competition mode. Photo courtesy of Ride On Photo.

Course design and building doesn’t often arise as a career dream for kids. However, Ali knew what she wanted to do even before she knew it was a professional option.

She traces the earliest inklings for her career path to tagging along with her mom who volunteered as a steward. “I often went with her, putting out flags, whacking weeds and all that stuff. I loved that part of it, but I didn’t realize courses were actually planned. I kind of thought you just threw jumps out in a field and went and jumped them.”

As her riding advanced through lessons and clinics, she began to see the rhyme and reason behind the placement of fences, the tracks between them and the construction, materials and look of the obstacles. “Especially riding with course designers and others who were serious about it, it all started to make sense.”

As she realized that “This was a thing!,” Ali investigated the educational and certification path to becoming a course designer. The more she pursued educational tracks, “the more I got into it.”

Earning certification is not for the faint of heart or the impatient. “It takes a long time because you have to get apprenticeships with different people,” Ali explains. “You ask if you can follow them around while they’re working and ask them questions, and they must fill out paperwork afterward.” In the early days, Ali was sometimes mistaken for a not-very dedicated applicant looking to pad their resume. A few apprenticeships in, however, word got round that she was the real deal and getting “yes” from licensed designers became easier.

Over The Hump

“I feel like I might be over the hump,” says Ali with her characteristic self-effacing humor. “The course designer I’ve ask to apprentice with might call a contemporary and ask, ‘This annoying girl is bugging me. Is she worth it?’ Now, they hear, ‘Yes, let her hang out with you.’”

Adri Doyle is one of Ali’s favorite mentors. “It’s nice to have another girl to talk to and it’s unusual.” Adri is also a technical delegate, which increases the odds of working together. “We help each other setting stuff up and that’s fun. And she’s always honest with me.”

Rob Mobely, FEI course builder, USEF licensed designer and Galway Downs builder, is another favorite mentor.

Shadowing Olympic course designer Derek DiGrazia at the Land Rover Kentucky 5* last year was a learning curve high point for Ali. Given the option of tagging along several weeks before the event or during the week before set-up, Ali chose the latter and was thrilled with the experience.

“That week before, they are adjusting things just a tiny bit. Like the placement of trees as a visual element on the course. Even just by a couple of feet. It’s awesome to know all that information, then watch what happens during the competition.”

A View from the Saddle

Alessandra Allen-Shinn and Fool Me Once. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Like most of her course design colleagues, Ali rides and competes herself. So she has no problem when riders inquire about some of her decisions. “They always say, ‘Why the heck did you do that? How could we ever make it from here to there?’ But actually, it’s often the case where I’m setting the course up to do something for them. When I set something off a turn, that is just balancing the horse for you. If you are going to a coffin jump, you need a packaged canter, so that turn has stopped you from having to haul on your horse’s mouth. I did that for you.”

Ali began plotting her tracks for the Kick Start Horse Trials this weekend back in November, during the Eventing Championships at Galway Downs. At every competition, she prioritizes changing things up. “I don’t want anybody – horses or riders – to think, ‘Oh, I just did that three months ago.’”

She happily puts plenty of thought into every detail – especially during the months based at Galway Downs. “I know the property well and I think about it a lot. I spend a lot of time on the tractor working on the footing, too. Between that and visualizing everything, I like to change my plans for each event as it gets closer. Sometimes riders try to find out what’s in store for an upcoming course, but until I’ve set it and it’s staked, it could still change.”

In her own riding, Ali’s main horse now is 7-year-old Banksy, who she is prepping for his first CCI2*. As a course-designer, builder and rider, it can be hard to focus on riding while competing, especially over a track designed by someone else. “Sometimes it makes me crazy because I over-analyze elements of the course as I’m going around.”

On balance, however, Ali loves her life of juggling related activities. It keeps her beyond busy, which reflects the constant demand for her many talents.

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California Eventing Spotlight: Meet Harper Padgett

By on Jan 17, 2024 9:30 am -

Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

When 15-year-old Harper Padgett arrived at the USEA’s U21 Emerging Athlete national camp this week, she didn’t know what horse she’d be riding. The Seattle-based rider’s three horses are in Florida for the winter, so she’ll be participating in the session with US Olympic gold medalist David O’Connor on a catch ride.

“It’s kind of fun!” said Harper of the awaiting surprise. Plus, she believes that the more experiences she has, the better ride she can give her own horses and the better prepared she’ll be to attain her long-term goal of representing Team USA.

Catch riding is part of Harper’s plan, as is competing on the jumper circuit and taking lessons with dressage and jumping experts.

This past summer, Harper competed jumper division catch rides at Thunderbird Show Park in British Columbia and loved it. “I think it’s an important part of improving and getting a feel, not just for my main horse, but for riding and developing younger horses.” Along with eventing work, she’ll be contesting the Winter Equestrian Festival jumping circuit in Florida this season.

Variety

Even without catch rides, Harper enjoys plenty of variety in her own horses. As her longest time partner, Captivate has been Harper’s best coach. Formerly her mom Leonie Padgett’s horse, Captivate passed to Harper when she was 12 and helped her rapid ascent from Novice and Training to Preliminary and 2* in their first year together, at only 13. “Being able to trust him and having him be so steady at the level has helped me feel so confident in bringing up a young horse to that level.”

He’s a relatively calm character. “It’s nice having a horse that can make the time in Prelim but you don’t feel like he’s running away with you.”

Harper is “super excited” about that younger horse, Cooley Starship, who is the opposite of Captivate personality-wise. “He’s a fiery, super sensitive hot horse,” says Harper. “I’m learning how to ride him and calm him down.”

At the Eventing Championships at Galway Downs last November, this pair was 2nd in the USEF Eventing Young Rider Championships at the CCI1*-L level, and third overall in the division. “I think he is going to be one of my long-term horses,” Harper shares. “I haven’t wanted to rush anything with him. The Young Rider Championships were easy for him and I’m very excited for Preliminary and 2* with him this year.”

Harper also has a newer and more seasoned horse in Cooley Co-Presenter. Her first few months at home with him have been encouraging. So much so that she expects him to be her Intermediate and 3* partner now that she’s entered her 16th year and is eligible for those divisions.

At-Home Horsemanship

Photo by Kim Miller.

Harper keeps her horses at the family’s Seattle area farm. With academics an equal priority to riding, Harper has help with barn chores during the week. She enjoys doing all the conditioning work in the afternoons and handling the horse care responsibilities on the weekends.

Their property has hills for stamina and strength building and Harper uses the time riding on her own to absorb and apply lessons learned from her coaches. “Obviously, horsemanship is not just about the riding,” Harper observes. “Being with the horses 24/7 helps build our bond and developing their ground skills is important to producing our partnerships.”

When she’s home, Harper works with jumping professionals Lauren Crooks and John Turner and dressage coach Debbie Dewitt. This winter, she’ll compete one of her horses on the Winter Equestrian Festival jumping circuit in Florida under Lauren’s watch. She admits the jumper world is tempting. “I love the jumping and there are a lot more girls my age on that circuit. But I love eventing, too, and I wouldn’t want to give up the momentum I have there. Plus, I love the people in eventing. Everyone is so supportive.”

US Olympic eventer Phillip Dutton is Harper’s coach when she’s in Florida. She’s been working with Phillip since meeting him at a clinic at Galway Downs three years ago. Phillip and Liz Halliday have helped source Harper’s horses.

Emerging Athlete

Last year’s accomplishments align perfectly with Harper’s big goals. She was the top Junior Preliminary rider in the country and in USEA Area VII.

Earning a spot in the Emerging Athlete national camp enhances those competitive accomplishments. The 18 participants for the January national camp are drawn from a larger pool selected for five regional camps held earlier in the year. The Jan. 2-6 camp at Kings Way Farm, across the road from Galway Downs, marks the USEA’s second staging of the session and Harper was selected both times.

She appreciates the camps’ half riding and half lectures format. Harper has referenced notes taken in last January’s deep dives on dressage, jumping and cross-country throughout the year. She’s pleased that the USEA offered that depth of education at the regional and national camps, so that more up-and-coming riders can benefit from it.

Networking was another focus of the non-riding sessions. “They talked about the publicity aspect of getting your name on those lists when it comes to grants and being able to advocate for yourself. Building your own connections was a big topic last year.”

Above all, the camps’ focus on training and development basics — including the German training scale — are invaluable as she ascends the levels, Harper says.

Harper recalls being passionate and driven from the start. Her mother Leonie Padgett had evented while growing up in New Zealand. She steered Harper in the eventing direction early on and continues to be a super supportive horse mom and an amateur competitor herself. Harper enjoys sharing the sport with Leonie and having a daily brain storming partner when it comes to training challenges, highs and lows of life with horses and career goals.

Harper started riding a pony at 8 and “I just loved the competition and wanted to do my best all the time.” Prioritizing high school and riding, and maintaining a healthy balance between the two, is an intense juggling act, she acknowledges. But she wouldn’t have it any other way.

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Meet Galway Downs Fundraiser Clinician Ian Stark

By on Jan 5, 2024 9:30 am -

Ian Stark teaches at Galway Downs. Photo by Kim Miller / The West Equestrian.

As a six-time Olympic silver medalist and renowned international course designer, Ian Stark has seen a lot. One thing he hasn’t seen is another equestrian venue stage a clinic anything like the Galway Downs fundraising affair set for Jan. 19-21.

“It’s quite brilliant,” he says. “All these clinicians putting something back to help develop the sport and its venues.”

This year’s gathering marks the 26th year and Ian’s been there from the beginning. In fact, his connection to Galway Downs pre-dates the clinic because he’d flown over the year before to coach riders here. Most of all, he explains, he loves the knowledge ripple effect of the clinic.

“Some of the riders are giving instruction themselves, and then I have them riding with me, too. Everybody benefits from that. It’s all encompassing and very positive. I think nearly all the more experienced riders are very keen to help all the young riders – to give some information and share their experiences,” Ian continues. “Our sport has always been great from that point of view and the Galway Downs clinic epitomizes that.”

Galway Downs’ Growth

Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Visiting every January and designing Galway Downs’ cross-country tracks for many years, Ian has had a front-row seat for the venue’s evolution.

“Galway Downs has grown beyond all recognition,” he observes. “The whole venue is quite impressive.” Ian first came long before Ken Smith purchased the property and began investing in it as a multi-faceted special events site. While community soccer fields now occupy some of the original space for cross-country, Ian sees positives in that.

“There are so many great things going on out there now. With the soccer pitches being on grass, it does mean the footings changes a little bit for the horses. And that means the riders have got to ride accordingly – their horses might react differently.” It’s an opportunity, he explains, for competitors to develop the adaptability required in eventing.

Galway Downs’ evolution parallels the evolution of the talent pool preparing in the West. “The quality of the horses and riders has always been reasonably good, and it’s gone into another stratosphere now,” Ian says. “The riders have so many more opportunities and now the West Coast can compete very competitively on the East Coast and against those based in the East. In the beginning, they were quite behind on that. I think a lot of that comes down to the dedication of people like Robert Kellerhouse and the other great organizers of West Coast competitions.”

One consequence of riders’ progress is that Ian has fewer opportunities to playfully admonish people for counting strides on cross-country. Early on, that was an obsession for many, not just at Galway Downs but among American riders in general, Ian recalls. “I’d ask them to jump certain jumps on cross-country and they’d ask me ‘how many strides?’ I’d say, ‘I have no idea! Go and ride it and react to what you’ve got’.”

Walking courses is useful for knowing whether a combination is a forward or holding distance, and evaluating terrain that affects that, he says, “but I’d much rather people rode from feel. You have to react to however the horse jumps into a combination, then make it happen for the rest of the combination. I like to tease American riders about being hellbent on knowing and riding for certain striding, but there’s a lot less of that now.”

Ian’s approach draws on his own training system. “My training has always been to ride around the farm, go out hunting, jump everything, get on with it and react.” He acknowledges, however, that “there is a lot to be said for both approaches. Instinct and feel are, for me, more important than the number of strides. But when you walk a course, you’ve got to know whether it’s an open or short distance, then have the feel to react if your horse jumps in too boldly or a bit backward and be able to make happen what needs to happen.”

As a competitor and a course designer, Ian has seen the whole sport of eventing evolve. “It’s a different sport, to be honest,” he says. “When I was competing, we still had roads and tracks and steeplechase and the courses at Badminton and Burghley were 13 minutes long. We don’t get courses that long anymore. Cross country day was speed and endurance. It’s still difficult to make the time and gallop clean around many of our courses, but it’s not quite the stamina affair it used to be.

Course Design Finish Line

Ian Stark taking a dip in the water complex on a warm day in Rio. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

“Everything evolves,” Ian concludes – and that includes his course designing career. Fair Hill International this October will be his last course designing assignment. He’s facing the reality with mixed thoughts and emotions.

Until a few years ago, the International Equestrian Federation, the FEI, mandated that officials retire at age 70. That extended to 72, then the limit was removed all together. Yet, Ian had geared this life plan toward retiring at 70 and he’s sticking to that despite considerable pressure to continue.

“I think it’s a good decision. I’ve always been very aware of and anxious about hanging on to something for too long,” he says. “Knowing when to quit is never easy. If you hang on too long you could lose your edge and stop younger people from coming through. I’d rather go when people still want me!” He acknowledges there are different perspectives on this question but feels good about his own.

His family’s Ian Stark Equestrian Centre, and his adult children and four young grandchildren, tilt him toward the original retirement timing. Plus, he’ll keep a hand in course design’s future as a mentor to younger designers.

Ian hopes the pipeline of younger designers will get fuller. Since the FEI implemented more levels of course designer certifications and requirements, “it’s become even more difficult for young ones to get to the top levels,” Ian observes. “It worries me that it takes too long to move up to the higher levels and I hope there will become a way for the very talented ones to be fast tracked.”

Course design is not a track for the faint of heart, he cautions. “When you’re riding, you get a knot in your stomach until you get on and get that adrenaline going. As a designer, you don’t get that release of pressure. And the pressure is enormous.”

The work’s rewards come at day’s end. “The most gratifying aspect of course design is when a rider comes up at the end of the day and says their horse was a bit green at the beginning, but it improved throughout the round and finished with a smile on its face.”

Busy “Retirement” & A Brilliant Career

Ian Stark discusses frangible technology. Photo by Erin Tomson.

Even without designing around the world, Ian has plenty to keep him busy. Run by his wife, Jenny, the Ian Stark Equestrian Centre is located on 500 acres in the Scottish Borders’ town of Selkirk. It offers lessons and a full calendar of competitions and events.

Helping Great Britain earn team silver at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics was a launch point for Ian’s international riding career. His resume includes six Olympic silver medals; World Championships team gold and silver and individual silver; and six team golds, plus individual gold and silver, at the European Championships. He is a three-time Badminton winner and remains the only rider to have finished 1st and 2nd in the same year, which he did in 1988.

Ian retired from team riding in 2000 and “mostly” retired from riding in 2007. The allure of the saddle, however, is such that Californians have seen him campaign or school a horse or two over here in the years since.

Snow skiing fulfills Ian’s free time these days, making up for the years when he abstained because of its injury risks.

His many honorifics include MBE from the Queen of England in 1989 and OBE in 2000; Honorary Fellowship of the British Horse Society and induction into the Halls of Fame of Sporting Scotland, Sporting Scottish Borders, the British Horse Society and the Event Riders’ Association.

In short, he’s a living legend in our sport and the wisdom and wit he’ll share at the Galway Downs fundraising clinic is not to be missed.

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Ingrid Klimke’s Wine Country Masterclass a Huge Hit

By on Dec 12, 2023 12:00 pm -

U.S. Tokyo Olympic Team Silver Medalist – Sabine Schut-Kery and Mr. Spielberg. Photo by Kim Miller / The West Equestrian.

Ingrid Klimke’s Masterclass in the Wine Country drew 700-plus enthusiasts Dec. 2-3 for a fantastic, fun weekend of learning from the 5-time German Olympic eventer and international dressage rider.

Ingrid’s love of the horse was palpable all weekend and she shared Classical dressage and training principles, the multiple benefits of cavalletti work and much more. It was wonderfully staged by Kelly Artz and her organizing team at Entrigue Consulting. All the riders and horses were amazing and it was great to see Galway Downs gussied up again just a month after the Eventing Championships.

Photo by Kim Miller / The West Equestrian.

Divided into six sessions with two horses/rider pairs each, the Masterclass saw Ingrid share her expertise and advice with everything from young dressage horses to those close to Grand Prix level. A session with three eventers – Chloe Smyth, Taren Hoffos and Grace Walker – closed each day.

 

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The versatility of cavalletti work was evident in every session. Cavalletti work is one of many training tactics Ingrid inherited from her father, the eventing and dressage master Reiner Klimke. She has refined the work with successive editions of the book Cavalletti for Dressage and Jumping, 4th Edition. The evolution includes creating her own cavalletti that were used at three heights in a wide variety of gymnastic exercises to fulfill various strengthening, suppling and training objectives.

Arranged in straight and serpentine patterns and set in different distances and striding options, the cavalletti served many functions. They helped horses learn to sit into their hind quarters and develop the strength to articulate their knees, shoulders, stifles and hocks.

Photo by Kim Miller / The West Equestrian.

Circle and serpentine work helped riders prepare for turns — whether they occurred in a jump course or dressage court. They taught suppleness and responsiveness to bend and to change that bend smoothly and on short notice. Stride extensions and collections were yet another area where Ingrid’s cavalletti exercises helped participants advance their partnership, whether that was played out in the dressage court, the jumping arena or on cross-country.

This was really a treat and privilege to have Ingrid in California. She clearly loved the sunny winter weather and Galway Downs’ ability to host both educational opportunities in an elegant, comfortable setting.

Here’s hoping Ingrid will return soon!

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Building a Base of Support at the Annual Galway Downs Fundraiser Clinic

By on Dec 7, 2023 11:30 am -

Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

The annual Galway Downs fundraising clinic is set for its 26th year – Jan. 19-26, 2024 and sign-ups are open now!

Olympic eventers Ian Stark and Jock Paget are the featured clinicians. Land Rover Kentucky 5* winner Tamie Smith headlines a roster of 24 “local” eventing professionals ready to share their expertise. Friday, January 19 features private dressage lesson opportunities with Donna Weinberg or Jo Moran.

The clinic began as and continues to be a way to help fund first-class eventing competition and it’s become a fixture on the West Coast calendar.

Deb Rosen asserts that it’s much more than a money-maker. “It’s my favorite weekend of the year,” says the Wild Ride Eventers proprietor who has participated from the get-go.

A Base Builder

Funds raised from the clinic go to ongoing venue improvements and maintenance. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

“It started as a grassroots event,” she recalls. “Getting everybody together at a time when Galway Downs was new and we wanted to help promote all the efforts being made on behalf of eventers in our area.”

Since then, the clinic has become key to building the base for the sport. Deb is based at the El Sueno Equestrian Center north of Los Angeles. She sees a thriving community of professionals helping riders at the entry and lower levels of eventing.

At the Galway fundraiser, these pros can ride themselves and bring students. Deb estimates that many of those kids and adults will be riding off property for the first time.

One of the most in-demand professionals on the roster, Deb is happy to work with all levels, perhaps especially those relative newbies who want an adventure and education without being overwhelmed. “It’s fine with me if you just want to walk over logs on the ground,” she says. “All of these riders contribute to building up the base of the sport.”

Deb sees the ripple effect of participating in the clinic. Initially, riders stick with her year after year, then gradually branch out. “They’ll ask me, ‘Do you think it’s OK if I ride with someone else?’ That gives me chills when they want to ride with another educator.”

The clinic is part and parcel of Galway Downs’ support of the region’s horses and riders, Deb adds. “I can’t thank Robert Kellerhouse enough for what he has done for our sport and for me personally. There are so many things I would not have been able to experience if it wasn’t for Robert. He and Katy Robinson are just delightful.”

Katy Robinson is coaching herself and suggests another benefit of the clinic – “It’s a great way to check out a trainer you might be considering working with. It’s a super opportunity to see them work.”

The clinic welcomes spectators, although care must be taken while walking on cross-country as there are often a few groups working in different parts of the course. It’s a great way to learn more about cross-country in general and to see how a range of professionals approach various questions on course. In past years, a few brave hunter/jumper riders have entered at the lower levels to test the eventing waters.

A social gathering on Saturday evening adds to the weekend fun.

How It Works

Photo by Sally Spickard.

The Standard Clinic program includes Saturday and Sunday group cross-country lessons, with stabling included. Group or private lessons with Jock and private lessons with Ian Stark are separate options that do not include stabling in the entry fee. Ian and Jock offer dressage, show jumping and cross-country.

At press time, the professionals donating “Standard” cross-country clinic experiences are Allyson Hartenburg, Auburn Excell Brady, Barb Crabo, Chloe Smyth, Deb Rosen, Emilee Libby, Erin Kellerhouse, Frederic Bouland, Gina Economou, Hawley Bennett Awad, Jennifer Johnson, Katie Willis, Katy Robinson, Kaylawna Smith Cook, Kim Goto Miner, Lisa Sabo, Mickayla Howard, Megan McIver, Olivia Putrino, Stacia Arnold, Susan Friend, Tamie Smith, Taren Hoffos and McKenzie Rollins.

Groups are organized by skill and experience level, from. The closing date for entries is January 12. Slots fill up fast and additional clinicians are often added to the roster.

Sign up here.

Why a Texas Trainer Will Make the Long Haul to the Championships at Galway Downs

By on Oct 15, 2023 12:10 pm -

One visit to Galway Downs is all it took to have Dallas, Texas-based professional Rebecca Brown chomping at the bit to return. After finishing 4th in the CCI4*-L with Dassett Choice and being part of the Adequan USEF Futures Team Challenge in 2020, Rebecca is heading back for the Eventing Championships at Galway Downs, November 1-5.

She brings two of her own horses, her relatively new Trust Pommex Z for the USEF CCI2*-L Eventing National Championships and Fernhill Quite Frankly for the Preliminary Challenge. And her student, Camryn Chung, will carry an Area V flag for the USEF Eventing Young Rider National Championships’ CCI2*-L and has a younger horse in the open 1*.

Rebecca has visited the region more recently in her role as USEA Emerging Athletes U21 coach on the West Coast, but she’s itching to be back as a competitor. Before coming to Galway in 2020, she admits to having had an “uneducated view” of the California eventing scene.

“I thought it would be softer than the East Coast. I was wrong!”

Photo by Liz Crawley Photography.

Good Experience Assured

“The courses were spectacular, Robert [Kellerhouse] runs an amazing event, and I really enjoyed my time there. Plus, it’s sunny! I loved it.”

When deciding how to close out the 2023 season, Rebecca debated between Galway Downs or TerraNova, in Sarasota, FL. Surprisingly, they’re only a few hours different in travel time from Texas.

“A big part of my decision is that I just know that I, and especially my horse, are going to have a good experience.”

Rebecca and Trust Pommex Z started their partnership in June. He has some CCI3*-S mileage, and Rebecca felt the 2*-L would be a great next step in getting to know each other. It will help with qualifications, too. The fact that it’s a National Championships was certainly a factor, she says, “but it is more important to me in the long run that ‘Troy’ get exposed to a lot of great things.”

She’s excited that her Preliminary Challenge outing with Quite Frankly will be part of the Area VI Championships. In an unprecedented move, the regional championship is open to contenders from outside areas. “He doesn’t need to do a 2*-L this fall, but I was looking for harder courses at the Preliminary Level so the Challenge is perfect. Galway Downs offers so many options. It’s perfect for pursuing different goals.”

Photo by MGO Photography.

Road Trip Ready

Rebecca purchased Troy after making the difficult decision to sell her 4* horse, Dassett Choice, who she imported as a 4-year-old. “I have terrific owners, but I mostly support myself when it comes to financial aspects. I had the opportunity to sell him to a good friend, Sherry Pound, and the outcome was that I was able to buy Troy.”

She hopes he’ll be the horse with whom she’ll return to the USEF Developing Rider roster. “He has all the attributes. He’s a great jumper and mover. He has a good brain and he seems super brave. We’ve only had two competitions together, but they were successful and I’m excited to see how things go at Galway.”

The 24-hour drive from Dallas will be well worth the trip, Rebecca says with confidence. “Being from Texas, we always have to drive long distances to get to most shows. It’s easier when you know you are showing up at a quality show. It makes the drive so worth it.”

Organizer Robert Kellerhouse sets a welcoming tone from the outset. “He sent me a personal message thanking me for our entries. It’s a simple thing, but so nice.” That’s icing on the cake of Galway’s many physical and organizational attributes, Rebecca says. “These are the events we want to support.”

Family Legacy

Rebecca continues her mother Becky Brown’s ongoing legacy as a horsewoman and coach who launched many careers and lives with horses. “She operated the School of Horsemanship for over 40 years, and lots of kids who rode there went on to compete at high levels and/or become trainers themselves.”

Rebecca didn’t intend to make a career with horses. “I went to college to get a finance degree and had every intention of being a wealthy amateur,” she says, but she graduated in 2009 to an economy in the dumps. Her mom was teaching 150 students at the time and suggested Rebecca come help temporarily. “It turned out to be something I was incredibly passionate about,” she reflects.

The finance degree wasn’t wasted. “What I learned has been hugely helpful in my developing a business successful enough that it can help me support my own horses. I’m lucky enough to have some support with my horse owning syndicate, but the reality is that I still bear a huge amount of personal financial responsibility.” Both her parents are self-employed and that helped Rebecca develop business skills from an early age. “Having the industry experience as a trainer’s kid helped, too.”

Rebecca’s business, RB Riding in Dallas, trains 25 clients competing at all levels. From schooling shows and the Starter level up to the 3*, and including amateurs and juniors. She’s long supported the Area V Young Riders and stands ready to support their Championships coach, Dom Schramm, as needed at Galway Downs. As a member of Area V’s 2005 North American Youth Championships gold medal team, Rebecca is well prepared for the role.

Welcome back, Rebecca!

Notes from the Judge’s Box with Robyn Fisher

By on Sep 19, 2023 10:00 am -

Welcome to a new column brought to you by the team at Galway Downs in Temecula, CA! As we gear up for a full slate of fun at the Galway Eventing Championships (November 1-5), which will host the 2023 USEF CCI2*-L and USEF CCI4*-L Eventing National Championships, 2023 USEF Eventing Young Rider National Championships, presented by USEA and Area VI Championships among many other competition offerings, we’ll be bringing you more content from Galway Downs. Learn more about Galway Downs here.

Robyn Fisher and Betawave. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

Dressage is sometimes dissed as the dull phase of eventing. FEI Level 2 and “S” National Eventing judge Robyn Fisher disagrees.

And not because she’s the proverbial “DQ – dressage queen” who hasn’t experienced the thrill of galloping cross country or flying to a fault-free show jumping finalé — she has!

Robyn has done all that and more in her career as a professional rider, trainer and coach. Her R Farms in Moorpark, CA is a hub for young horse development – dressage and eventing horses — and she coaches amateur and seasoned professional equestrians.

Since starting the rigorous educational journey of earning the USEF’s eventing judge certification in 2011, Robyn has delved deeply into the art of dressage — its execution from the saddle and its evaluation from the judge’s box. She’s a regular on the West Coast eventing circuit and will be part of the Ground Jury at the West Coast eventing season finalé, the Galway Downs Fall International Nov. 1-5.

Thanks to Robyn for taking the time to share a few horsemanship tips from her judge’s perspective.

Galway Gazette: How did your deep dive into dressage come about?

Robyn: I chose to explore the judging program in 2011. Amy Tryon was a very close, dear friend to me and she encouraged me the most to move forward with getting my license. Once I did the first seminar, I was hooked.

The first seminar made it clear that there was/is so much more to learn about a sport I had been living for over 30 years. I tell people who are starting out passionately that you can end up going down a rabbit hole because there are so many fascinating facets to the sport of dressage.

GG: What is your goal for your judging career?

Robyn: My goal is to judge championships and the Olympics one day. Because of that, I have not fast-tracked getting my FEI licenses because I think it’s really important to do right by the riders.

At that level, officials have a duty to get it right for the competitors. It’s important that judges, like riders, continue to learn and have mentors to inspire and educate. I am testing for my Level 3 FEI license this fall and will then be able to officiate as president of the ground jury, at the 4* level.

GG: What are some relatively easy ways to maximize points in a test?

Robyn: It’s so important that the riders read the directives of the test. The directives are the criteria of what judges are looking for in each movement.

GG: What are some common weak points for eventers in dressage?

Robyn: I think the majority of eventers see the dressage phase as a means to an end– meaning they have to do it in order to do the cross-country. I think riders should shift that thinking into understanding that proper dressage schooling will maximize your horse’s competition longevity and soundness, as well as the rideability in the jumping phases.

GG: Can you share any unofficial tips and tricks?

Robyn: Know your test so well that you can focus on good riding rather than on remembering where you need to go. So often nerves influence, positively or negatively, a performance. If you can focus on the performance rather than remembering the pattern, you will tend to have a smoother test.

GG: What things most positively influence a judge?

Robyn: A happy horse. If I see a horse that is doing its test so willing and supple and looks like it’s smiling, usually that will leave an impression.

Also, the judges first look for rhythm and relaxation at every level. Riders need to know and fundamentally understand what rhythm and relaxation mean and how to build upon them.

Dressage is not about making a horse put its head down in a frame. Rather, it’s about getting the horse in a balance that allows for ease of movement, self-carriage, and harmony. That means a horse working with biomechanical correctness from the hind legs, pushing through the body, in an uphill balance. A rider can pull a horse’s head In and do the movements, but that won’t win.

Riders need to understand the correct biomechanics in their horse’s movements. Once they can execute the fundamentals, the points will come.