Become an Eventing Nation BloggerSara and Sarah from SmartPak’s wildly popular comedy series “If Horses Were People” went live on Facebook earlier this month. They acted out scene suggestions and answered questions from readers. They also shared some of their favorite IHWP memories and the backstories behind some of their funniest moments.
If you missed it, you can watch their live performance above (complete with edited-in series flashbacks), and you can check out the entire IHWP playlist by clicking here.
In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN each week. Last week, we featured five great jumping saddles. In this edition we have a selection of dressage saddles (there is still time to get one before Christmas!). We’ve included the ad copy provided; click the links for pricing and contact information.
Amerigo Vega. Photo courtesy J Brown via Sport Horse Nation.
Amerigo Vega Dressage Saddle – 18″ seat
This Amerigo Vega Dressage Saddle has a N tree and a 18″ seat. It is wool-flocked and in great condition. It was only used for a short period of time.
Located in Connecticut.
Voltaire. Courtesy Clare Green via Sport Horse Nation.
17.5 inch Voltaire Design Adelaide monoflap dressage saddle. Rider is no longer eventing due to college and this saddle does not fit her dressage horse.This saddle is made of Buffalo leather, making it durable and giving the rider a secure feeling. It has been broken in but only very lightly used.
Per Voltaire Design:
Extra deep seat. Cut back.The Adelaide is a single-flap dressage saddle designed for eventing riders who want to improve their dressage position and feel closer to their horse. Its narrow twist makes it easier to ride longer. The “cut back” tree makes the Adelaide saddle easy to adjust for high-wither horses.
Located in Maryland.
Erreplus Adelinde. Photo courtesy Liz Millikin via Sport Horse Nation.
New Erreplus Adelinde Dressage Saddle
18″ med tree, black with different size knee blocks that are adjustable! Only sat in a few times! Comes with saddle cover.
Located in Florida.
County Perfection. Photo courtesy Cheryl Batts via Sport Horse Nation.
County Perfection Dressage Saddle Excellent Condition 17.5 M SR
County Perfection Dressage saddle in excellent condition. Very comfortable with knee rolls that hold you in. Size 17.5M SR. Has been stored in house & covered–still black and not faded. Great saddle for horses with high withers. Does not fit my new horse.
Located in North Carolina.
Listings included in this article are randomly selected and confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.
The gold medal CH-J* Area II team at NAJYRC 2015. From left: Skyler Decker, Camilla Grover-Dodge, Amanda Beale Clement and Morgan Booth. Photo by Brant Gamma for the FEI.
The USEF announced last month that The Event at Rebecca Farm in Kalispell, MT, would be the host of the 2017 NAJYRC eventing competition pending FEI approval. Now it is official: Rebecca Farm will be the site of the Young Riders Championships for eventing July 19-23, 2017.
Organizer Sarah Broussard has expressed sincere gratitude at the opportunity to host NAJYRC as it reflects her late mother Rebecca Broussard’s vision for assisting young riders on their path to competing at the upper levels of the sport.
“This competition exposes young riders to a true international championship. Being part of a high performance activity like this affords young riders the opportunity to work with coaches they might not normally meet,” said Sarah said. “It’s an incredible opportunity for young riders.”
It will be an extremely busy week at this world class venue in the Flathead Valley. In addition to the CH-J* and CICOY2* Young Rider Nations Cup divisions, Rebecca Farm will offer Novice to Intermediate horse trials, Novice and Training Three-Day Events, the full scope of FEH/YEH classes, and CCI*, CCI2*, CIC3* and CCI3* divisions.
“We are always looking for ways to grow The Event at Rebecca Farm, and hosting this championship will bring a larger international audience to The Event in July,” Sarah said. “We are honored to welcome new folks to the Flathead Valley each year and to showcase all the community has to offer.”
The 2017 NAJYRC will be a significant alteration to its typical format of having all six disciplines competing at the same location. HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, NY is the proposed location for dressage, jumping and para-dressage. The USEF has opted not to put forth a proposal for endurance as there was no feasible venue option, and we do not yet have information on the proposed location for reining.
The Event at Rebecca Farm will be a long trek across the country for many young riders and the conversations about fundraising and travel tips have already begun. Get in on the conversation: Let’s Discuss: NAJYRC 2017 or Bust.
Will Coleman thanks Nanki Doubleday for her longtime support. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
In addition to the many awards given at the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention, the Professional Riders Organization selected three particularly special individuals to thank for their contributions to the sport during the Friday night PRO Awards.
Will Coleman presented longtime supporter Nanki Doubleday with the PRO As You Like It Owner’s Award. Nanki was Will’s first owner when he was just 20 years old and working to establish himself in the professional horse industry. He said that at the time he was really bad at business and would often be happy to accept a meal as payment for rides, but Nanki taught him to value his time and expertise for more than that and he credits her for helping him begin his professional career.
“When you’re a young professional just coming out of the junior ranks, your first owner is very special, and the fact that Nanki is still such a huge part of my career to this day, some 15 years later, it speaks to the singularity of her support and her loyalty,” Will said. The first horse Nanki owned for Will was Wild Frontier. She also owned Bromont CCI3* winner Nevada Bay and Conair, whose promising career was tragically cut short.
“Nanki has experienced more than her fair share of disappointments and each time has brushed them off respectively as being part of sport and part of life,” Will said. “One could hardly argue with someone if they chose to leave this all behind, saving themselves the emotional and financial cost of such frequent and untimely disappointment. But that’s not Nanki–she is no quitter. She’s one of the toughest ladies I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing, and we honor her tonight for that fighting spirit and for loving in its entirety a sport that does not always love us back.”
Nanki’ is more than just a horse owner. She is a volunteer, works hospitality at Carolina International and has played host and chef to many riders and grooms. “As much as she loves her horses, it is the people of the sport that have endeared themselves to her,” Will said. “She embodies the relationships, friendships, camaraderie and fellowship that binds us all together.”
“She has been a pillar in the foundation of my career despite all that has and could go wrong. I know she will continue to be there until the end. For those of us that have someone like that in their camp you know how incredibly priceless that is. I know in my heart the best is yet to come for her and her horses, but it is her own perseverance and commitment that merits recognition and praise.”
Jane Murray, Marc Donovan and Allison Springer. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
The Seema Sonnad Above and Beyond Event Personnel Award is given to an exceptional volunteer or event staff who goes out of their way to offer a great competition experience. Marc Donovan is this year’s deserving winner.
Marc is a show jumping course designer, the Carolina International Event Director and organizer of the wildly popular War Horse schooling show series at the Carolina Horse Park. In all his work, he keeps the welfare of the horse at the forefront of his mind.
“What he does for the sport is unparalleled,” said Jane Murray, Co-Chair of the Carolina International Executive Committee. “Marc not only makes the Carolina International what it is, but he also runs an unrecognized low level series of events that are noteworthy across the country with prize money and unprecedented participation that is amazingly creative.”
This is the second year for the Above and Beyond award. PRO President Allison Springer said, “We miss Seema dearly. This was her vision. It’s really special that Seema wanted our group to take this award on and present it. I hope for all the organizers, volunteers and people that (make events possible) that we the riders are so grateful for everything you do for us.”
Kendyl Tracy will not soon forget the 2016 Convention as she went home with not one but two awards for being an outstanding groom for PRO rider Lynn Symansky. Kendal won the Christine E. Stafford Eventing Groom Award during the USEA Year-End Awards, and she received the Liz Cochran Memorial Groom’s Award from PRO, which includes a $5,000 prize.
Kendyl arrived at Lynn’s barn as an interim groom. She was done with college and was bringing along her young horse RF Cameron Velvet. She ended up staying on full time and Lynn said she selflessly put some of her own riding on hold to groom at shows.
From left: Allison Springer, Max Corcoran, Kendal Tracy and Lynn Symansky. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
“She has been the most unbelievable person I’ve ever had the honor of working with. There’s a lot of good grooms out there, but it takes something else to be a truly exceptional groom. I think that goes to Kendal’s quality of nature,” Symansky said. “She really gets the psychological needs of the rider and she really gets the horse and it’s been an absolute honor to work with her.”
Kendyl has traveled the world with Lynn and her four-star Thoroughbred Donner, including going to Rio for the Olympic Games as the traveling reserve for the U.S. Eventing Team.
“I think if there is anything harder than being the reserve rider for the Olympics it would be the groom for the reserve rider for the Olympics,” Lynn said. She groomed for me like the horse was getting ready to win a medal every single day. Even after we didn’t jog up for the team she was there every single day helping the other grooms from sun up to sun down.”
In order to ensure the Liz Cochran Memorial Groom’s Award will be funded for the foreseeable future, the Lufkin family has issued a challenge to PRO. Liz was Abigail Lufkin’s groom and the Lufkin family has agreed to give $50,000 to endow the award if PRO can also raise $50,000 to match their contribution.
“This award is very near and dear to my heart. Karen O’Connor and I started this award because, as you know, the grooms are the people that are behind everything that happens,” said Max Corcoran, a PRO Board Member and top international groom. “Our job is to make sure that when the riders get on their horses they worry about nothing else but competing their horses. They trust everything to us. Clearly it’s a labor of love; it’s not a money making scheme.
“Liz gave her entire life to looking after these horses…she was the kindest soul and gave everything to these horses to make them great. We lost her to cancer way, way to early. This award is in honor of Liz and the grooms that give their entire lives to these horses.”
Sam Watson of EquiRatings and Hugh Lochore of Chattahoochee Hills work together to bring in bids to support the Liz Cochran’s Memorial Groom’s Award. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
As part of the effort to raise the necessary funds for the endowment, EquiRatings agreed to donate services to be auctioned off during the PRO Awards. Chattahoochee Hills organizer Hugh Lochore worked the crowd, encouraging bids. In the end, three separate bids of $2,000 each were accepted from Robert Kellerhouse of Galway Downs, Jane Murray of Carolina International and Richard Trayford of Ocala Jockey Club International. EquiRatings agreed to provide sports data to all three competitions in response to their generous donations.
If you would like to donate to help secure the continuation of the Liz Cochran Memorial Groom’s Award, contact PRO Executive Director Samantha Lendl at [email protected].
Congrats to all the winners from the PRO Awards and thanks for all you do for the sport. Go Eventing.
Want to learn more about PRO? Visit their website.
At the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention, we work hard but we play hard, too. It’s five days of non-stop committee meetings, seminars, awards ceremonies and social gatherings, and inevitably we all feel a little hungover at the end (figuratively and, for some, literally).
The presence of the great William Fox-Pitt was a highlight for us and he was gracious to snap a ton of selfies with fans throughout the weekend. The awards dinner is always a happy time and you can’t help but feel pride and excitement for the sport by the end. And while it did rain, it looks like there were plenty of folks who made it outside for a little sun and sand.
We had a great USEA convention! The USEA staff did an amazing job. and…. I actually walked right past Evander Holyfield this afternoon with Carey Ann Williams! Plus I got to meet this guy.
Posted by Rob Burk on Sunday, December 11, 2016
I am in such shock over last night and incredibly grateful to the Connaught Grant board for choosing Stella Artois to…
Posted by Jennie Brannigan on Sunday, December 11, 2016
That’s a wrap of the USEA 2016 Convention!! Had a great time spending time with old friends at the USEA Convention…. Posted by Next Level Eventing on Sunday, December 11, 2016
Photobombing opportunities are EVERYWHERE at the #useaconvention A photo posted by Elisa Wallace (@wallaceeventing) on
These USEA conventions are rough,
Posted by Dayna Lynd-Pugh on Friday, December 9, 2016
Such a fantastic time at #useaconvention – good times with good friends (and a few heroes too!) Posted by Cherie Chauvin on Saturday, December 10, 2016
Good friends @ USEA convention. Posted by Cindy Sapp Phillips on Friday, December 9, 2016
Fun night with great friends ❤️
Posted by Hannah Sue on Sunday, December 11, 2016
And after all that….
Coming into work after the #USEAConvention like pic.twitter.com/GKhT2SIIJB — Shelby Allen (@shiiibbyyy) December 12, 2016
Convention in a nutshell. Photos by Leslie Threlkeld.
Where to begin about the USEA Convention…It’s a whole lot of meetings and a whole lot of socializing, but it’s worth it to attend to be both a participant in the management and improvement of the sport and to celebrate your fellow eventers. Sadly, it rained pretty much the whole time and the wind blew like a hurricane, kicking up the ocean waves and keeping us mostly inside, but the weather didn’t dampen our spirits. Still, I absolutely refused to leave without feeling the sand between my bare toes for at least a few moments, so I hauled all my luggage out to the beach with me, kicked off my shoes and breathed in salty air. Thanks to the USEA for another great Convention. If you haven’t had Convention on your calendar in the past, plan to meet EN in Long Beach next December. Go Eventing.
Monday News and Notes:
The 2016 USEA Annual Meeting concluded yesterday with a meeting of the Board of Governors. Carol Kozlowski opened her first BOG meeting as President, Dr. Suzanne Smith gave an update on the Collapsible Fence Study, Harold Eichell spoke about the success of the fundraiser efforts of the USEA Foundation, and we’re delighted that USEA CEO Rob Burk was given the go ahead to receive a proposal from sports data experts EquiRatings, whose Saturday seminar was one of the most popular of the entire Convention. The hope is that EquiRatings will work with U.S. Eventing to improve safety. Finally, the BOG voted on the locations of the 2018 and 2019 Conventions and they are two great picks! [Click here for more]
As part of the USEA Collapsible Fence Study, Dr. Suzanne Smith created a survey for horse owners to help establish a population for their rotational fall simulator. The survey collects measurements of horses and riders to be used as realistic data in the study. The response to the survey was good but it could be better. I bet EN readers can help. [Take the survey]
Last week we featured an exercise from Jim Wofford’s book “Modern Gymnastics: Systematic Training for Jumping Horses” in a staff edition of What’s In Your Ring? You can order the book from the Equine Network store but you can also learn more about gymnastics through the Jim Wofford Jumping Academy at AIMEquineU.com. Right now you can use the code EVENTING40 for a 40% discount! [Enroll in Jim Wofford’s Jumping Academy]
The (FEI) was named the International Sports Federation of the Year during the recent 2016 International Sports Awards. This award “recognizes” the work of the international governing body for equestrian sport, including its leadership in integrity and governance.” While the creative but really odd Billy to Rio and Hoofloose projects had horse people scratching their heads a bit, the FEI’s #TwoHearts campaign received high praise as a successful social media endeavor and is said to be the best ever promotional campaign pursued by the FEI. [Sports Federation of the Year]
Monday Video: Go back in the barn with Mighty Nice, the 2016 Jump for Joy USEA Overall Horse of the Year, through some great interviews by the USEF Network during Rolex in April.
The USEA Year-End Awards Ceremony is a special time we always look forward to. On this night horses and riders are celebrated for their achievements throughout the year, extraordinary individuals are honored for their service to the sport, and we bid fairwell to the year and look ahead to new and exciting adventures in eventing.
It was a joyful night for Jennie Brannigan, who was awarded the coveted $30,000 “Big Becky” International Developing Rider Grant which may be used to offset expenses incurred competing overseas. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Jennie and Elsbeth Battel’s 8-year-old Holsteiner/Thoroughbred mare Stella Artois was awarded the $25,000 Connaught Grant, which is given to a one- or two-star horse that shows U.S. team potential and is awarded in honor of the late Bruce Duchossois. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
“I cannot even begin to describe what this amount of support means and feel pretty grateful that I live in a country where this is even possible,” Jennie said after the ceremony. “Thank you all so much… I am hungry… and I will strive to make the horse and people that these two grants are in memory of proud in the future.” Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
The Rebecca Broussard Developing Rider Grants are designed to assist and to encourage the development of event riders at the highest level of the sport. Mackenna Shea, 24, received the $10,000 “Little Becky” Developing Rider Grant. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Phillip Dutton’s Rio Olympic Games partner Mighty Nice, owned by the HND Group, won the Jump for Joy USEA Overall Horse of the Year Award. Phillip Dutton is also the Advanced Adult Rider of the Year. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Under Suspection, a 12-year-old Holsteiner mare owned by Mary Ann Ghadban and ridden by Hannah Sue Burnett, won Devoucoux USEA Mare of the Year. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
The Devoucoux Overall Lady Rider of the Year went to Lauren Kieffer. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Jenny Caras, 21,is the 2016 Young Rider of the Year. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Kendyl Tracy received the Christine E. Stafford Eventing Groom Award, presented by Former USEA CEO and Current USEA Development Officer Jo Whitehouse. Kendal also received the Liz Cochran Memorial Groom’s Award during the PRO Awards on Friday. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Susie Beale’s Batteries Not Included received the Theodore O’Connor Trophy as the 2016 Overall Point Two USEA Pony of the Year. His rider Annabelle Kress (pictured) is the Junior Beginner Novice Rider of the Year. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
The newly formed Roger Haller Educational Fund was formed to assist in the education and licensing of officials, judges and course designers in honor of the late Roger Haller. The Fund awarded its first two scholarships last night to Valerie Vizcarrondo and John Williams. Roger Haller’s wife Ann presented these awards with USEA President Carol Kozlowski. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Howard Simpson received the USEA President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his many years of dedicated service to the sport. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Christine Aytug’s health forced her to put riding on hold, but she has remained active in the sport. She received the Ironmaster Award, which is given to which is given to an individual that exemplifies fortitude and courage. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Mary Hutchins received the Wofford Cup and the Governors Cup. Jerome Broussard, Sharon Anthony and Kaiti Saunders also received the Governors Cup. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
USEA CEO Rob Burk thanked outgoing USEA President Diane Pitts for her hard work and dedication over the last three years. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Saturday at the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention is one of the busiest of the week, with the continued scheduled committee meetings and a number of educational sessions offered to attending members. It is also the day of the Annual Meeting of Members and Luncheon with special keynote speaker William Fox-Pitt, and still to come tonight is the USEA Year-End Awards. Catch up on the news of the day below and be sure you’re following EN on Instagram for more photos.
#USEAConvention: Website, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, Instagram, Twitter
USEA Annual Meeting & Keynote Address
USEA members bid a bittersweet farewell to outgoing USEA President Diane Pitts at today’s Annual Meeting of the Members.
“When I think of words to describe Diane Pitts, I think of passionate, committed and a lover of the sport,” USEA CEO Rob Burk said. “She’s been an amazing leader for this association. I have officially learned the meaning of ‘little spitfire.’”
New USEA President Carol Kozlowski delivered an excellent first message in her new role, aptly saying that Diane “put her heart and soul into her presidency.”
“She has been nothing but kind and gracious to me this past year,” Carol said. “She has done everything she could to make my path forward a smooth one. Her commitment to keeping us all on solid ground has been an inspiration.”
We also said goodbye to outgoing members of the USEA Board of Governors: Sarah Broussard, Tremaine Cooper, Phyllis Dawson, Peter Gray, Mark Hart, Janet Horton and Diane Pitts. Jerome Broussard is also stepping down as USEA Foundation Trustee.
The USEA has an excellent recap of the business portion of the Annual Meeting, so click here if you want to delve into the nitty gritty. (We also have to send a special shout out to good friend of EN Leslie Mintz, who was honored for five years of employment with the USEA.)
William Fox-Pitt’s keynote address then took us on the most incredible journey through his fall and recovery, as well as special horses that have impacted his career.
“I’m lucky to be here. We’re all involved in this amazing sport and I’m now part of a happy story and a good ending. I want to share that with you because it has been quite a journey,” William said.
“My saving grace has been my family. They’ve gone on this journey with me and encouraged me and fought for me to get better because when I came out of my coma, I couldn’t do anything.”
We’ll be bringing you a full report on William’s keynote address soon, but in the meantime, read the names of these superstar horses and reminisce: Steadfast, Chakra, Cosmopolitan, Macchiato, Stunning, Tamarillo, Ballincoola, Cool Mountain, Lionheart, Oslo, Parklane Hawk and Chilli Morning.
Keynote speaker William Fox-Pitt charmed the crowd and EN’s own Jenni Autry presented him with a special painting of William and Chilli Morning competing at the Rio Olympic Games. The painting was done by Julie Lawther with a Jenni Autry photo as reference. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
USEF High Performance Riders
Today’s USEF High Performance Riders session touched on much of the same information David O’Connor discussed on Thursday, with a few new tidbits of information. (Click here if you missed Thursday’s report.)
The USEF Eventing Selection Committee is planning to meet before Christmas to select riders for the USEF Eventing High Performance Winter/Spring Training Lists. The timeframe for when the lists will be released is still unclear.
Leslie Law will continue his role as USEF Developing Rider Coach, and High Performance is also looking at bringing him on board to help coach at the senior level during major events, like Nations Cups and championships.
David discussed that the new WEG format means teams will only be allowed one individual slot, which he said is disappointing in part because “it was always a great chance to use those individual slots to develop riders for teams and let them practice in that environment.”
The U.S. selection period for WEG will run for 18 months, starting with CCI events in the spring of 2017. David is encouraging all riders looking to make the 2018 WEG team to run a CCI selection trial in the spring of 2018. As for who will ultimately be selected to a team: “We will be taking the best of the best.”
As always, consistency in results is key, and riders who can consistently score 45 or under in dressage, deliver fast and clear cross country rounds, and leave the poles in the cups for show jumping will greatly increase their chances of being selected.
“Don’t ever give the selectors a reason not to put you on the team,” David said. As we discussed on Thursday, the High Performance riders will now be assessing their own results and will work with David to set target markers to improve performance in all three phases.
In addressing the changes to the Olympic format of three riders with no drop score, David said “we don’t know what that will do to the sport for awhile.”
If a team horse is eliminated or has to be withdrawn during the competition, a reserve horse can be substituted and accept penalty points. The number of penalty points that would be given for using a substitute is still being debated, David said, but 50 points is the number that’s currently on the table.
Lastly, USEF Managing Director Joanie Morris highlighted some notable FEI rule changes for 2017, which we’ve outlined in detail here.
Joanie noted that the FEI is “testing out” the new rule next year that allows riders to miss a flag on cross country and continue on without being eliminated, taking 50 penalties instead. It’s very likely we’ll see that rule continue to change and evolve, David said.
Every seat was filled and people spilled into the hallway during the eye-opening presentation by Sam Watson and Diarm Byrne of EquiRatings. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
EquiRatings
The Convention is buzzing about EquiRatings after co-founders Sam Watson and Diarm Byrne delivered a stats-packed presentation on equine data analysis to a standing room-only crowd this morning.
EN has been a longtime supporter of EquiRatings, both because of their critical work to bolster safety in the sport but also because of the game-changing implications data analysis can have for how we manage High Performance both at home and major competitions.
We’ll be bringing you a full report on EquiRatings’ excellent presentation soon, but in the meantime, if you’re not following them on Twitter, you should remedy that immediately here. Click here to learn more about EquiRatings.
Town Hall and Summit Recap
USEA CEO Rob Burk, outgoing USEA President Diane Pitts and incoming USEA President Carol Kozlowski discussed the results of the Town Hall sessions that took place in every Area in 2016. The intention of these sessions was to expand upon the Sport Summit that took place at the Convention in Washington, DC last year so that members around the country who could not participate could be a part of the discussions to improve the sport and the Association.
The structure was usually one moderator and one note taker, with a current USEA Board member or Area Chair participating in one of these rolls. For every speaker who had a complaint or raised an issue, they were also asked to provide a potential solution or direction to address the problem.
Discussion topics included eventing costs, membership growth, 21st century sport/business, calendar of events, education, organizing events, professionals, adult amateurs, safety and more. Ultimately, the USEA received almost 200 unique recommendations (consolidated from thousands) which were compiled and published on the Eventing 2016-2026 Project Tracker, which can be viewed on the USEA website.
Recommendations have been distributed to appropriate committees, task forces and staff members and the USEA staff will be able to update the Project Tracker as each item is addressed. Additionally, all of the information gathered will be reviewed by the USEA Executive Committee and Strategic Planning Task Force for incorporation into the Strategic Plan.
Diane said that the value of the Town Hall sessions and subsequent development of the Project Tracker shows members that their input is valuable and gives them a platform for their voice to be heard. Carol stated that because Annual Area Town Halls will be a fixture for USEA she hopes attendance will improve in the future: “You the membership has to be part of the bigger picture.”
Volunteer Incentive Program
Nick Hinze developed a pilot program for the Volunteer Incentive Program and ran it in Area II in 2016. The VIP is now being developed to be applied across all Areas. This program will do a number of things to benefit the volunteers that are so important to the success of events and also be a valuable tool for organizers to help fill volunteer positions, track volunteer hours and generate volunteer leaderboards.
Sunsprite Warmbloods is sponsoring the VIP and is making it free for organizers in 2017. Learn more at www.eventingvolunteers.com.
The new USEA President Carol Kozlowski addresses the membership. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Rule Change Open Forum
USEF Eventing Committee member Malcolm Hook led the Rule Change Open Forum, which reviews the rule change proposals that have been voted on at the USEA Convention and will now go forward for approval by the USEF in January. Malcolm also went over new rules that will go into effect in the coming competition season.
One significant rule change proposal written by the USEA Cross Country Safety Task Force adds to the provisions for using frangible technology, specifically on oxers. Put simply, it will mean that builders must use MIMs on the front rail of oxers and MIMs or a reverse pin on the back rail. The language of the rule allows for future frangible devices to be utilized under the written requirements of the rule without requiring a rule change for every new technology. This provision will apply at the Modified level and up. Read more about this rule change proposal and the science behind it here.
There will be rewrite of EV105 which refers to the loss of qualifications. Malcolm said the proposal was done “with the best intentions but wasn’t vetted well.” The change will appear in the Rulebook very briefly, but will then be removed. The change meant to reflect the FEI’s recent rule changes with regard to qualifications/MERs but USEA has to find a way so the language works for both national and international competitors.
The FEI recently included in the 2017 rules that missing a flag on cross country at a corner or narrow fence would incur 50 penalties instead of elimination if the rider continued on without re-approaching the obstacle. The USEA meant to reflect this rule change but Malcolm said they discovered that the FEI has made this change on an experimental basis for 2017 so the proposal from USEA has been withdrawn until the results of the ‘experiment’ are known.
For many years, the USEA has encouraged a necropsy be done on horses that have died in competition. Now a general rule change proposal from the USEF Horse Welfare Initiative Task Force will require a necropsy to be done on any horse that dies at any time while on the grounds of a USEF sanctioned competition. There are also provisions included that help with costs for transportation and lab work. Read more about that proposal here.
“This is a huge step forward for the USEF to take this for all disciplines,” Malcolm said. “It’s fairly easy to understand if a horse jumps a fence and shatters a pastern and has to be euthanized, but the majority of the deaths we look at occur in stabling and no one knows why they occur. It is a source of huge concern to the veterinary, drugs and medications, and welfare committees in the Federation.”
Some nosebands have been added to the list of permitted tack for dressage and those illustrations will be available online soon. Read more here.
It has been proposed to allow spur rowels to rotate vertically and horizontally instead of just vertically, as was the previous requirement, in order to reflect the FEI rules. Read more here.
See all of the eventing specific rule change proposals here.
Read up on important rule changes going into effect for the 2017 season here, and check out the complete 2017 USEF Rules for Eventing here.
Following the discussion on rules, Malcolm brought up a change to how the Watch List is managed. The Watch List was created in 2008 as a way “to keep an eye on individuals that in the opinion of officials (etc) gave the appearance of being at risk to themselves or their horses.” Malcolm said list has not been heavily used and at any one time there are usually fewer than five names on the list.
In reviewing it, the USEA and USEF wanted to make sure it is effective and better utilized. They have expanded the ways that people can end up on the Watch List; for example, now any rider issued a yellow card for dangerous riding will automatically go on the Watch List. The new specifications will be made available on the USEF website.
Finally, Malcolm said he has received permission from the new USEA President Carol Kozlowski to form a task force including officials, organizers and course designers to study and attempt to deter bracket or level ‘creep.’
Jenni Autry contributed to this report.
In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN each week. For this edition, we found five great jumping saddles for sale just in time for Christmas! We’ve included the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and more information.
Amerigo DJ. Photo courtesy of Kaitlyn Bennett via Sport Horse Nation.
17.5 Amerigo DJ, Normal Flap, Medium Tree. In Great Condition. Will ship at buyers expense. Email for more photos.
Located in Ontario.
Frank Baines Enigma. Photo courtesy Bonnie Dixon via Sport Horse Nation.
Frank Baines Enigma – 17.5″ Medium Tree
This saddle was purchased new in 2011 and has been well taken care of. It has forward flaps, knee and thigh blocks for security, and offers a close contact feel. I am a taller rider (5’8) with long legs, and I fit perfectly in this saddle. Wool flocked with gusseted panels. Saddle has some wearing consistent with age and level of use, but has no damage. Please text or email for more information.
Located in Connecticut.
Antares. Photo courtesy Maisy Grassie via Sport Horse Nation.
2011 18” MED TREE WOOL-FLOCKED ANTARES JUMP SADDLE
Seat measures 18”, Flaps measure 12.5” bar to bottom and 12.5” across (0N Flap Size – Short), Front Gullet measures 4 ½” (Medium to slightly Medium-Wide Tree). THIS SADDLE IS WOOL FLOCKED so the fit can be customized to your horse. Dark brown color. The leather is all buffalo upgrade. Excellent condition with mild routine wear (see pics). Antares Blue Saddle Cover included. More pictures available.
Located in Michigan.
CWD Monoflap. Photo courtesy Sam Poole via Sport Horse Nation.
Lovely 2011 CWD XC saddle in fantastic condition. 18.5 in seat with forward flap. Perfect for a long legged rider. Excellent balance and in beautiful shape. Gullet measure 5″ from felt dot to felt dot so it is quite a generous tree.
Please don’t hesitate to ask any questions. Motivated seller. Selling as I just don’t need this many saddles and it doesn’t fit my horse.
Comes with new matching nylon lined leathers, fillis irons and well used Devoucoux monoflap girth w elastic.
Located in North Carolina.
2013 Devoucoux Chiberta with D3D Technology (SOLD!!!!!!!)
Listings included in this article are randomly selected and confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.
USEA CEO Rob Burk addresses the Board of Governors. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Day three of the 2016 USEA Annual Meeting and Convention at the Diplomat Resort and Spa in Fort Lauderdale, Florida was jam packed with committee meetings, open forums and educational sessions all for the benefit of USEA members and U.S. eventing fans.
If you missed our review of today’s eye-opening High Performance Session featuring cross country training advice from Phillip Dutton, click here. Also, the USEA media staff is working tirelessly to bring as much information from the week’s meetings to its members as possible, so be sure to check out their convention coverage here.
USEA Board of Governors Meeting Recap
Murray Kessler, who will begin his role as the new USEF president in January, gave an enlightening presentation on how the USEF is completely revamping. “The fundamental difference going forward is a focus on building membership from the grassroots level on up by improving membership value,” Murray said.
Essentially, the USEF is getting a total overhaul, from a new vision and brand to a new website with educational tools and resources for members. It’s all part of a new strategic plan designed to grow equestrian sports in the U.S.
Part of that strategic plan is “a move for USEF beyond strictly enforcement.” With that in mind, USEF is ditching the “sherrif’s badge” logo and adopting a new logo.
The new website will be rolled out in January and includes a new learning center with educational videos like “How to Walk a Cross Country Course with Phillip Dutton.” More than 50 videos are currently in production, Murray said.
He also announced that outgoing USEA President Diane Pitts will now chair the USEF Governance Committee. Go Diane!
Joanie Morris, USEF Managing Director of Eventing, also gave an update on High Performance that mirrored yesterday’s session with the riders. Click here if you missed that report.
“It was an incredibly busy year for us, and we very much appreciate the fan base. Obviously we were really disappointed with our team result in Rio, and we are working on the evaluation of what happened and how to return the team to the podium. The good news is we did have a medal in every dicsipline at the Games, and we were one of only two countries to do that,” Joanie said.
“We also hosted the first Nations Cup in eventing outside Europe at Great Meadow. It seems like it’s getting more momentum and more excitement from other countries. Riders in other countries usually just think of Rolex, but now we’re getting more events on the world calendar that will hopefully have riders coming to us. We go to Europe a lot to compete, and it would be great if we could get riders to come here.”
Joanie confirmed that the 2017 High Performance plan for the U.S. Eventing Team is not yet complete and will continue to be worked on this week at the convention.
Sarah Broussard, USEA Vice President for Safety reported the excited news that an online test is now available for safety officers to obtain certification. Our own CEO Rob Burk took the test online and is now a certified approved safety officer.
Outgoing members of the Board of Governors were also honored with fun gifts, which you can see in the photo gallery below.
Classic Series: New Committee, Revised Guidelines, Educational Resources
The USEA Classic Long Format Series was spotlighted today in several sessions including a meeting of the recently formed Classics Committee. The Classic Three-Day Open Forum was well attended by those interested in keeping the thrill of the ‘chase alive. Classics Committee Chair Gretchen Butts moderated with additional input from a panel of three-day organizers including Mary Fike, Lee Ann Zobbe, Chris Donovan and Leslie Threlkeld (yes, me).
The Classics Committee was formed earlier this year and they are dedicated to promoting and preserving the Classic Long-Format Series and upholding the mission of the USEA to “advance the sport of eventing through education of riders, trainers, officials and organizers, with the health and well-being of the horse of paramount importance.”
Some of the ways the Committee is doing this is by revising and clarifying the rules/guidelines for three-day events. They are also working to provide educational resources to benefit riders interested in competing in a long-format event and organizers interested in hosting one. Currently there are eight events in the country that offer the long format from the Beginner Novice through Preliminary levels.
Immediately following the Classic Three-Day Open Forum, Sharon White and Colleen Rutledge led an educational seminar on completing a training three-day or one-star.
“The three-day is a wonderful way to learn how to care for a horse and develop the best partnership with your horse,” Sharon said. “Any organizer putting on a classic wants you to be successful and to learn.”
Colleen said that conditioning for the long format gives you a good idea of how your horse handles being tired and teaches them how to work through it.
“Conditioning is a learned response. You can always condition them to be better than they are,” she said. “Horses have to learn how to work through being exhausted. Some horses, especially warmbloods, will hit bottom and act like they can’t go on. They have to learn how to find their second wind.”
On Saturday at 10:00 a.m., three-day organizer Cindy Deporter and Dr. Kim Keeton will teach a session on the Classic Three-Day Horse Inspection.
Organizers Open Forum: Late Entries, Haul In Fees, USEA Technology
The organizers open forum is a place where organizers can discuss key issues affecting event organizers and get feedback from one another.
On topic that comes up time and again is managing late entries. Allison Springer said that making entries entries more expensive after the first week entries are open is a strong incentive for competitors to enter sooner. A member of Millbrook’s organizing committee said that while this may help the bottom line and helps the rider be aware of entering on time, it is not the perfect solution and doesn’t help everywhere.
Gretchen Butts of Waredaca said, “Historically it is a topic of every organizer’s forum and it is not a problem we have solved to date, nor is it an easy solution.” She suggested an Area-wide or national policy for managing late entries be it imposing a consistent late fee or what have you. Denis Glaccum, founder of Plantation Field Equestrian Events, said the marketplace must be determine how organizers manage late fees based on each event’s individual needs.
In response to a question about wait lists and incomplete entries, Denis said that technically by the rules, an entry cannot be accepted if it is incomplete, but realistically the organizer can let a competitor know what items are missing from their entry. “Managing wait lists is difficult but it’s a healthy situation,” he said.
Andrea Baxter of Twin Rivers shared a policy that works for them, which is to allow a 7-day grace period after the closing date to get a full refund minus an office fee. “As a rider I don’t want to enter ahead of time because I don’t want to lose my entry fee if the horse gets hurt, etc…We’re encouraging everyone that there is no penalty to cancel the week after the closing date, we just want them to get their entries in and process with a wait list that is fairly numbered and assigned.”
Some events are charging haul in fees for competitors who do not stable overnight and one attendee asked how that is justified. President-elect Carol Kozlowski said this came up in some of the town hall sessions around the country and made the suggestion to charge by vehicle and not by horse.
Two organizers agreed that their grounds fee is determined based on the costs of renting portable restrooms for the haul in area as well as providing water and cleaning up the space after the event. Another organizer said the fee would be more palatable if it were included in the entry. In response, Robert Kellerhouse from Galway Downs stated that they isolate costs as much as possible to benefit the people who don’t use all the services offered at their event.
Finally Robert Winter, USEA’s Director of Information Systems Management, spoke about the newly developed USEA Event Companion App, which is a mobile application “created to quickly provide important information that you need while you plan, prepare and participate at a USEA competition.” He stressed that this app is a tool for organizers to use, to communicate with their competitors or anyone on grounds at their event. Ideally, organizers will be able to control it on their time utilizing push notifications. The app is not a required tool for organizers, but a service–a platform to benefit their event and provide information to their event participants.
At the end of the session, organizers were given a survey of questions that arose during town hall sessions around the country over the last year. Organizers were encouraged to fill them out completely and return to the USEA.
Jenni Autry contributed to this report.
Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Upper-level riders packed the room at the USEA Convention today to hear Marilyn Payne’s review of the new 2017 FEI CCI4* dressage tests and her suggestions for riding key movements. Marilyn is a 3*/4* FEI Eventing Judge and sits on the FEI Eventing Committee, and she led the charge in creating the new four-star tests, which had not been updated since 2009.
Our resident FEI guru Maggie Deatrick discussed the major changes to the tests in this post. Notably, the half-pirouette at the walk and the counter-canter tour has been dropped altogether; the addition of a stretchy canter circle has been a hot topic online since the announcement of the new tests, and riders will have to start practicing flying changes on medium and extended canter diagonals.
Marilyn began the session with an emphasis on the steps of the Training Scale, and told riders that it is the judge’s bible and should be theirs, too, with the overall goal being to develop a horse that is through and willing to obey the rider’s aids.
Judging is a hard job, and one of the challenges is judging a movement that you cannot see well, like a flying change going away from you or a half-pass on the opposite side of the ring. The new four-star test indicates which letter the side judge must be placed based on the visibility of certain movements in the tests. So certain events may find themselves using test A or B based on how their arena is set-up at their venue. For instance, Rolex will have to use Test A, which places the side judge at E, because of where the grandstands are located. Otherwise, a judge’s box at B would block the view of spectators who pay no small sum for a front-row seat.
Another challenge is consistency between judges. It is not good to have a big swing in the scores from multiple judges watching the same ride, but it is an all too common occurrence at international events. To address this, Marilyn said there is going to be an upcoming three-day judge’s session in Germany where the 3/4* judges of the world will discuss the new tests and get on the same wave length when it comes to scoring.
Here are some additional notes from Marilyn’s session on the new movements. You can review the 2017 FEI 4*-A test here and the 2017 FEI 4*-B test here.
We can’t wait to watch the world’s four-star horses and riders tackle the new tests in 2017! But until then, you can watch dressage rider Melissa Taylor and Nichole Polaski’s Ansgar practice both tests (for SPF Video Services to film the tests, Melissa had to ride “backwards” in the arena, so A is C and C is A. Just ignore the letters and watch the pattern). See if you can spot which movements she does well and which could be done better. What do you think of the new tests after seeing them in action?
#USEAConvention: Website, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, Instagram, Twitter
To The Post. Sculpture by Kerry Millikin.
U.S. Olympian Kerry Millikin always felt that riding and showing a horse at its best is an art form. Although she no longer competes, she still strives to portray the same beauty of movement and athleticism through art. She paints life-like landscapes, and her bronze sculptures are a showcase of the intensity and emotion of equestrian sport.
“I’m always trying to create the electric feeling of say jumping down a six foot drop into water. That sensation, that passion, the feeling, the movement. In the dressage it was the complexity and elegance of the horse and rider I am always trying to emulate,” she said.
Kerry always loved art but pursued a more conventional degree in nursing while she was competing on the international eventing stage. Among the many accomplishments for her and her off-track Thoroughbred Out and About was an individual bronze medal at the 1996 Olympic Games, team bronze at the 1998 World Equestrian Games and team gold at the 1999 Pan American Games. Kerry turned towards art once more after retiring “Outie,” using her years of experience working with animals as a creative guide.
“Riding was an art form for me. It was a performance. It’s beautiful and aesthetically pleasing to see a horse galloping and jumping correctly. It was an art form to me to show off how beautiful and athletic these athletes are. Transferring that elegance and form into art is how I can show my appreciation and love of these athletes.”
In The Air. Sculpture by Kerry Millikin.
Kerry’s upbringing and eventing career positioned her well for her current career. Her mother was a dog breeder and trainer, and she and her sister Liz spent time on the racetrack with their mother from an early age. She describes it as a “lifelong study of the form and function of animals and athletes.”
“I always took care of my own horses. I put my hands down their legs every day and knew their anatomy and conformation. I knew how things were supposed to be put together and move. It’s not that that’s easy to transfer to sculpting. Every time they move different muscles contract and it’s challenging to put that into a 3D piece and get all the angles correct.”
The Lost Wax Process
Kerry uses the lost wax process to create her sculptures. Using an oil based clay that doesn’t dry out, she molds the clay to look like a leaping horse, a playful pup, a balanced dancer. She then transports the clay from her home in Massachusetts to New Art Foundry in Baltimore. Several layers of a rubber composite and then a plastic is painted over the clay until it is several times larger than the original piece.
Heated wax is then poured into the mold and separated when cool. A lot of detail can be lost during this process so the artist will work the wax until they are satisfied. “You make the clay as perfect as you can get it, but there is always something lost along the way,” Kerry lamented. “People don’t notice it, but the artist always does.”
When the artist is finished with the wax, it is outfitted with gates, or vents, dipped in a liquid as a protective shell and the wax is then melted out, or “lost.” The final step is pouring molten bronze into the casing. The foundry and artist work together at various stages after the pour to cover up evidence of the gates or imperfections and make final touch ups.
Kerry said she didn’t realize early on how much labor went into making bronzes, but like most riders, she is “used to hard work.”
Play Ball. Sculpture by Kerry Millikin.
Making a Sculpture ‘Move’
Before Kerry even begins a new piece she takes many photographs of a subject, capturing them from every angle so she can be sure to get the details just right. Then she will spend up to 40 hours or more on the clay, attempting to animate the object and bring it to life.
One of her favorite bronzes is Play Ball, an ode to her lab, Stogie, whom she lost last year. Another is To The Post, portraying a racehorse and jockey galloping to the start of a race. The forward movement of the horse makes it look like it will gallop off the table at any moment, and you can just imagine picking up the ball to toss for the patiently waiting Stogie.
Kerry says she “branching out” and sculpting human figures, seeking the same illusion of movement like what emerges in the grace and flexibility of Half Moon Dancer. The same amount of attention to detail and realism is evident in Kerry’s paintings, which often depict a beautiful landscape you can practically step into.
Kerry accepts commissions for clients; she made the USEA Hall of Fame trophies for the induction ceremonies last year. One piece she described with an obvious smile over the phone is All Ears, a trophy featuring Mike Huber with his dog and a young rider on a horse, going over the upcoming course.
Kerry is enjoying time at home working on her art but she is still active in the eventing community as a USEF Eventing Team selector and a current member of the USEF Eventing Committee and USEA Competitions Calendar and Rules Committee.
Many thanks to Kerry for allowing us to share some of her favorite bronzes here on EN. To see more of her work or to contact her for commissions, visit her website.
This exercise is straight out of Jim Wofford’s “Modern Gymnastics: Systematic Training for Jumping Horses” and is shared here with permission from Jim and the publisher, Practical Horseman. This is exercise number five in the book and the first to introduce bounces.
“Bounce fences, sometimes referred to as a ‘no-stride,’ are a good agility exercise. Your horse will learn to keep his shoulder in front of him as he jumps and will improve his technique,” Jim says. “It is also a good exercise for horses that tend to ‘rush’…Train your horse to keep a steady rhythm in the approach, because when his rhythm is under control, his balance is under control.”
I love bounces because they are great strength training for the horses; it gets them rocking back and pushing well off their hindquarters while also tuning up their footwork and focus. For the rider, gridwork of any type is the perfect opportunity to work on the strength of your position while also getting comfortable allowing the horse to do the job and think for itself while you stay out of the way. Plus, grids are just plain fun.
This particular gymnastic “will improve your horse’s agility, self-carriage and ability to jump multiple efforts without losing his balance,” Jim says.
The grid starts with a placing rail, then a double bounce, one stride to a vertical, one stride to a double bounce, then finish over a placing rail. The grid is symmetrical, meaning it can be jumped from both directions. Jim recommends approaching towards the new part first (going backwards through the grid) any time you add another element so the horse immediately notices the change.
Why It’s In My Ring
There are several things I like about this specific grid. For one thing it can be jumped both ways. I can’t stand jumping an exercise off the same leg over and over, and sometimes the size of shape of your ring restricts your ability to turn to a grid from both directions.
The other thing I like about it is that it can be built up slowly and steadily over time as your horse gets stronger in his mind and body. The first time I set up this grid at home, it took two maybe three jumping sessions before it was built up completely. You want your horse to think through the exercise and use his body well, not feel overwhelmed by a sea of rails and lose confidence or get too tired and body sore (bounces are hard work!).
Also, the jumps don’t have to be big to make the exercise effective. Even on a more experienced horse, I rarely put the jumps higher than 2’3″ because I’m more interested in the strength training for myself and my mount than about proving how high we can jump.
This is also a very versatile set up. Once the standards are put down and the distances measured out, it is really easy to create new exercises by removing one or more jumping efforts. A single bounce, two strides to a vertical, two strides to a single bounce or a single bounce, three strides to another single bounce are among Jim’s suggestions for variation.
I also like to use this grid in combination with another single jump or two in the arena. For example, I’ll work through the grid and then try to maintain the active, engaged canter it helped create through a turn to a single oxer. This way the horses also don’t learn that they get to stop working the moment they complete the grid.
Getting Started
Build the exercise up slowly and simply. Start by trotting over the first rail and the first vertical with all the poles all the ground. Then build up the first vertical to 2′ and trot back and forth over both elements until the horse is comfortable. On a young horse, you may find it takes several tries until they are comfortable with this “bounce” introduction between the placing rail and the first vertical. Keep your leg on but insist they land between the two elements, not jump out over the placing rail.
Then, add the second vertical to create the first bounce and trot back and forth several times until the horse is comfortable. Do the same for the next vertical to create a double bounce and the next vertical to create a one-stride. With young or green horses, I’ll stop here on a good note and come back to complete the grid another day.
On the second school, it should take fewer repetitions for your horse to be comfortable with the double bounce and one-stride going both directions. For the next half of the grid (the second one-stride and double bounce), Jim recommends setting up the final three verticals all at once instead of in increments in order to reduce the number of repetitions. I’ll do this for an experienced horse, but for a young or green horse I’ll build it up incrementally to maintain their confidence, which is another great reason to build this grid up over multiple days.
In the video below, super pony Willow and I breeze through this bouncy exercise. You’ll notice we had removed the placing rails and cantered into the exercise, but only after we had practiced and become proficient at trotting in with placing rails and the pony knew what the question was in front of her.
This gymnastics was great for Willow, who is slightly downhill, because it built up the strength in her hindquarters and encouraged her to keep her shoulders up through the double bounces without falling on the forehand. She loved working out the puzzle of it too. It was fun for her! For me, it was beneficial because in order for her to keep her neck and shoulders up, I had to stay centered and not fall too far over her neck, which is easy to do on a pony!
Is there such a thing as the Perfect Pony Award? Because I’m pretty sure I’ve got the winner right here!
Posted by Leslie Threlkeld on Wednesday, February 10, 2016
You can order Jim Wofford’s Modern Gymnastics from the Equine Network store. From your horse’s first trot poles to solving specific problems over fences like drifting and knocking rails, Jim provides a wonderful progressive approach to jump training with detailed descriptions, instructions and useful photo series to accompany each exercise. Learn more about gymnastics through the Jim Wofford Jumping Academy at AIMEquineU.com. Right now you can use the code EVENTING40 for a 40% discount! Enroll in Jim Wofford’s Jumping Academy!
Frequently, we here at EN reference the time Mark Todd rode Bertie Blunt two-thirds of the way around the 1995 Badminton CCI4* cross country course with only one stirrup. But after digging through the archives we were shocked to discover that we’ve never actually featured the video of this ultimate showcase of balance, tenacity and…something maybe only Toddy the Master could likely manage.
Considering we’ve just wrapped up with #NoStirrupNovember, it seems like the perfect time to honor the one stirrup ninja completing a four-star with only one foot in the irons. This is the superpower you’ve been working towards.
Photo by Kate Shields.
The rain we’ve been begging for has finally arrived. I am very fortunate to be outside of the fire danger zone in Western North Carolina, but the air has been filled with smoke for months and the dry conditions have only increased the risk of new fires. Along with the blessed rain has come cold temperatures and it suddenly feels like winter, but we aren’t even mad. The rain is so very desperately needed, it could start snowing and…well, let’s hold off on that for a bit.
Many of us will be heading South for the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention this week. Sure, the Convention is basically several days of meetings, but a lot of work is done for the good of the sport during that time, there are a lot of educational opportunities provided and it’s a wonderful year-end social happening, where you can catch up with your eventing friends outside of the constraints and stresses of a competition environment.
The Convention, however, has a little bit of an unspoken tradition of getting snow no matter where it is (even in New Orleans!)…but surely we won’t get snow in sunny Florida… right?
U.S. Weekend Action:
Sporting Days Horse Trials [Website] [Results]
Monday News and Notes:
A silent auction benefiting the Roger Haller Educational Fund will be held at the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention and there are some seriously awesome items up for grabs, like a week at the luxurious Mingo Manor in Destin, Florida, a domestic flight for an equine thanks to Tex Sutton and lots of event entries, stabling, lessons and swag. If you can’t be there, your friends can bid on your behalf (that sounds dangerous). [Bid to benefit educational programs for judges, TDs, CDs, instructors and volunteers]
“Training your Horse Show Spouse is a lot like working with a young horse…It’s all about good groundwork early on and developing the personality that you are given.” Horse Nation writer Meagan DeLisle may actually be on to something. Here are four useful, tongue-in-cheek tips on How to Train Your Horse Show Spouse.
The FEI World Cup™ Driving season is well already under way for eventing’s sister sport of combined driving. Dutch four-in-hand driver Koos de Ronde set the fastest times in the third leg of the series this weekend in Budapest, winning the competition with seven seconds to spare over József Dobrovitz and Belgium’s Edouard Simonet. [Superb start for Koos de Ronde in Budapest]
The Mannequin challenge has been taking social media by storm and anyone who can make a horse or other animal stand perfectly still while someone films them doing something ridiculous should be applauded. Here are 10 equine related Mannequin challenges. [Can you top this?]
Monday Video:
David Robinson, also known as the extraordinary equine videographer Harveywetdog whose motto is “where music meets motion,” is a friend of EN and his work is featured here often. From Blenheim to Burghley and in between, David brings us the emotion of the sport on screen. He shows us grand performances, awesome compilations and dramatic slow motion that highlights the personality of the equestrian community and the awesome individuals that are part of it.
In this video, David looks back on “thrills and spills” and memorable moments in 2016, “with thanks to those venues that have accredited me and accepted me and very big thanks to those of you who have #livedyourstory2016 with me.”
Thanks to you, David, for the art and entertainment.
Who is Harveywetdog? Where does he come from and what is his motivation? Learn more here.
You’ll have heard of skijoring, but the Maynard family of Vancouver, BC is responsible for a new equestrian pastime they like to call “ditchboarding.” It’s like skijoring except with a wakeboard and a ditch full of rainwater instead of skis and a mountain of snow.
“It’s normal for the Maynard family to be doing something different with their horses,” laughed Tasha Maynard, who conjured up the idea with her brother-in-law, Jordan. “We live on a farm and he said, ‘the next time the ditches flood, lets go wakeboarding.'”
It might have been a joke to begin with, but when the roadside ditches flooded the following week, Jordan built his own “wakeboard” out of an old piece of plywood and carpet stapled on top. Tasha tacked up one of their lesson ponies, tied the board to the saddle and took off down the road with Jordan skimming through the water behind them.
Bailey the pony pulls a sled in the winter, so he’s used to towing, and Tasha said he had a blast pulling Jordan through the water. “We were on the side of road which is just dirt, so the footing was good enough to canter along safely. He’s a great little pony and he had a blast.”
And while Jordan is not a practiced wakeboarder, he is a fit ultra trail runner and farm manager, so he picked it up fairly quickly (though not without a few dunks in the freezing water). With Jordan’s dad Rick filming the spectacle, the group of them quickly attracted the attention of the neighborhood and even the local media.
“Our neighbors across the street were watching and laughing,” Tasha said. “In the summer the farm is busy, but there are people that live a couple blocks away and didn’t even know the farm was here, so the extra media attention has been good.”
Tasha helps run Southlands Heritage Farm, which is owned by the Maynard family: Rick and Jennifer and their three boys Tik, Tasha’s husband Telf, and Jordan. Southlands Heritage Farm is the last working farm in Vancouver and offers agricultural farming workshops, summer camps for kids and riding lessons.
Maynards we know and love, eventers Tik and his wife Sinead, will be visiting over the holiday season and we’ll go ahead and give them fair warning that they may be challenged to a ditchboarding race, so they should start practicing! (Everyone else, don’t try this at home.)
Click here to learn more about Southlands Heritage Farm and its mission to grow quality food, educate the community on sustainable agriculture and support local farms and food producers.
In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN each week. In this edition we’ve picked out three fantastic four year olds. Looking to bring along your next super star? One of these youngsters might be just what you’re looking for! We’ve included the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and more information.
Hopper. Photo courtesy of Kaitlin Spurlock via Sport Horse Nation.
Competitive Young Horse With Upper Level Ability
Tell M Nothin ‘Hopper’ is a 2012 OTTB gelding with the ability to take an ambitious rider as far as they want to go. Started his eventing career this spring and has a competitive, consistent record. Never had a cross country penalty and placed 1st (Waredaca) and 2nd (Seneca) at his last two events at the novice level. His ability combined with his smart, willing attitude, makes him an excellent partner for an amateur, young rider, or professional.
Located in Pennsylvania.
Maverick. Photo courtesy of Pippa Moon via Sport Horse Nation.
Maverick is a 2012 16.2hh Chestnut Registered Canadian Sport Horse Gelding. KWPN sire, TB dam. He is jumping 2’6″ courses nicely, is brave and straightforward to jump and easy to flat. Green, but has an excellent temperament. 3 good paces, no vices, hacks alone and with company. Suitable for a Jr/YR/AA to bring along with help.
Located in South Carolina.
Teresa. Photo courtesy of Alex Martone via Sport Horse Nation.
Fancy and Safe Petite Sport Horse Mare
Teresa is a 4 yr old 14.3 hand paint mare (rider pictured is 5’7 for reference). She is sound with no vices and excellent conformation. Big bodied, a small adult comfortably rides her. Not marish, easy keeper, and extremely kind. Great ground manners, trailers, clips, etc. Teresa is best suited for a pony clubber or adult looking for a fantastic small sport horse or a fun mare to do it all with! She is not for a beginner as she is still green, however she has an excellent mind and will quickly progress with an understanding rider. Currently is gaining an understanding of lower level dressage and has a soft mouth and comfortable gaits. She is an extremely brave jumper, has yet to come across something she is afraid of! She is currently schooling 2’3 – 2’6 however has scope for much more. Excellent form, and naturally balanced. She is a more forward ride, but not strong. She has completed a few small horse trials and was very competitive. No issue with the big atmosphere or new environment. She is a lovely, and extremely kind horse looking for a great partner. She is very affectionate and a joy to have around the barn. Hacks out alone or with company quietly. Owner has too many horses and unfortunately needs to get Teresa rehomed before Christmas. She is a very special horse, I cannot stress enough how she has continued to impress me. A great home is a must!
Located in North Carolina.
Listings included in this article are randomly selected and confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.
Tessa and Samson share a moment. Photo courtesy of Marjolein Geven.
Werner and Marjolein Geven, professional riders and trainers based at Poplar Place Farm in Georgia, had long been searching for their daughter Tessa’s next perfect pony without success when a friend told them of a nice Connemara in need of a good home. The very same day they drove to meet him and instantly knew he was the one. He had a nice presence, sweet face and calm eye in addition to an uphill build and good head carriage.
“We drove up the driveway, saw him standing in a field and I said, ‘oh honey we’re in trouble! I like him already!’” Werner said. “I walked in the field with a little treat in my pocket. He came up and took the treat then ran off. The next day we came with the trailer.”
However Tullymor’s Houdini, a registered Connemara, had been previously rescued from a neglectful situation and so came with some baggage from his former life. With good care and a lot of patience, the Gevens along with their student Lily Barlow gained “Samson’s” trust and he is now repaying them tenfold.
In the beginning, “Samson” was obviously a very sweet pony with whom someone had done a lot of ground work, but he was petrified of having a saddle on his back and took hours to catch in the field. He also carries physical scars from being bullied by former pasture mates.
Werner knew that Samson’s behavior was not naughtiness, but a fear response. So the Gevens started over, showing Samson that life is good, riding is fun and no one would hurt him.
Lily Barlow and Tullibard’s Houdini. Photo by P.TEN Marketing/Erik Jacobs.
First Samson learned to simply wear a saddle. They would put it on him every day and let him just hang out and munch on hay until he was comfortable wearing tack. Later, Lily would get on and off, over and over, with someone at his head walking him quietly in circles.
“It took a while. He was very much like a very unbroke 3-year-old,” Marjolein said. “Now he’s a quiet pony. He’s not a hot pony but there is still some fear. You can tell he’s been bullied and doesn’t like to be crowded. He doesn’t buck or rear, he just wants to escape.”
Lily has done most of the riding and competing with 14.1-hand Samson while Werner coaches them. “It has been so special that Tessa is riding Lily’s previous pony Dinky, and now Lily is training her next pony too. She has done an amazing job!” Marjolein said. “Once he trusts the rider he wants to please them. When you’re riding him by yourself he gives you all he has.”
“He tries very hard,” Lily agreed. “Once he understands he has no problem.”
The Gevens started taking Samson everywhere to get exposed to new environments and learn to cope with nervousness. At home, they played games to build his confidence and get used to objects and movements that frightened him. Under saddle, he was a natural when they started him over fences, and his good movement regularly earns him scores in the 20s in dressage. Now that he is well schooled and more confident, Tessa is getting to know her new partner.
Tessa and Samson. Photo courtesy of Marjolein Geven.
“He’s super, but Tessa has to figure out how to deal with him without getting nervous herself,” Werner said. In this regard, Tessa is showing great promise.
In their first show together, Samson bolted after the judge had wrung the bell. They quickly realized that Samson was spooking at Tessa’s oversized hair ribbons flapping above him. With the offending ornaments hastily removed, Tessa turned and trotted straight into the arena to compete. With that kind of determination, Tessa and Samson will surely make a great pair.
“I thought she would cry and get off, but she went in and rode a great test,” Marjolein said. “She still needs to be made aware that she can’t ride him like Dinky, like throwing the reins down to hug him. She doesn’t know it can scare the pony.”
In the coming months Tessa will continue to ride Dinky, gaining confidence and valuable experience through Pony Club and schooling shows. Meanwhile she and Samson will work on dressage and forming a bond based on trust. And while young Tessa learns about the nuances of horsemanship, Samson is able to give back to the family that gave him a second chance.
In his first year of eventing, Samson has won six horse trials, placed seventh at the USEA American Eventing Championships and will finish in the top 10 on the 2016 USEA Beginner Novice Leaderboard. The Gevens finally found Tessa’s perfect new pony, and Samson got a new lease on life. This time, everybody wins.
Buccaneer (Lot 2 at the Goresbridge Go for Gold sale) is coming to the U.S! Photo courtesy of Goresbridge, used with permission.
In the coming weeks, 10 Goresbridge Go for Gold graduates will be transported from Ireland to their new homes throughout North America. The Go For Gold sale has produced such stars as Buck Davidson’s Copper Beach and Jonty Evans’ Rio ride Cooley Rorkes Drift, so we’re looking forward to watching the careers of these talented youngsters evolve.
Debbie Adams purchased 5-year-old SRS Cruiseland, a stunning 5-year-old grey gelding who is the grandson of two extremely influential jumping and eventing stallions: Cor de la Bryere and Cruising. Debbie has an extremely good eye for prospects — a recent notable would be D.A. Duras, one of Lauren Kieffer’s current CCI3* string — and has long been active in the USEA young horse programs.
Canadian Karl Slezak purchased 4-year-old Flogas Stepping Stone, an attractive 3-year-old by Loughehoe Guy and out of Tireragh Stepping Stone by Limmerick, making him a half-brother to Cruising Guy, winner of the Horseware Indoor Eventing Challenge at the Royal with Michael Jung. Karl’s wife Katelyn will welcome home 4-year-old Drombane Dynamite (Harlequin du Carel X Drombane Dilemma by VDL Arkansas), the winner of the 2016 Discovery Class at Millstreet International.
Steve Blauner bought 5-year-old Night Quality. He’s out of a mare called Night Fly by the KWPN stallion Maltstriker. Night Quality is a half-brother to Will Coleman’s four-star eventer OBOS O’Reilly through their sire OBOS Quality. Stephen’s second purchase will be heading to South Carolina for training with Doug and Jessica Payne. We caught up with the Paynes as well as Ruthie Meyer to hear more about their new prospects, but first let’s take a quick look at some other the notable notes from the sale.
Prior to the start of the sale, EN perused the Go for Gold catalogue and selected our top three horses we’d love to bring home. One of those, 6-year-old Cornascriebe Glenpatrick just happened to be the highest selling horse of this year’s sale, selling for €160,000 to Ellie Guy Eventing, which blew the previous sales record of €85,000 out of the water.
Another of our picks, Clare Abbott’s 2014 World Equestrian Games mount Euro Prince did not sell, as his €140,000 reserve could not be reached. Clare told Horse & Hound that “his age is a little bit against him,” but the good news is that Clare gets to keep the ride for now.
The second highest sale was Loughnavatta Cedar — another horse EN tapped — a 7-year-old gelding with two-star experience and a participant at the 2016 FEI World Breeding Championship at Le Lion d’Angers with Camilla Speirs. Owner Rory Costigan sold this special homebred for €70,000.
British Team rider Oliver Townend’s CCI3* winner Cooley SRS is a Goresbridge Go For Gold graduate, and we hope he finds equal success with his new mount, an unnamed 3-year-old gelding sired by Gemini XX, a clone of the legendary show jumper Gem Twist. He was purchased for €31,000.
Meyer Bids for Perfect Amateur Partners
Ruthie Meyer runs a sales business with her husband, New Zealand eventer Joe Meyer, who frequently goes overseas to source horses for clients. Joe was unable to travel over for the Go For Gold sale, so Ruthie found herself on two back-to-back shopping trips to Europe in two weeks. On her first trip she attended Ireland’s Monart Sale, then spent only a few days at home before turning around and going back for Go For Gold, where she selected and purchased four lovely youngsters for clients.
Four-year-old Tomgar Conspiracy and 4-year-old Master Cobra will go straight to their new amateur owners while Buccaneer and Patrickswell Royal were purchased as investments for a client and will head to the Meyers’ farm in Florida to be produced and sold.
Buccaneer is a lovely 6-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Clover Brigade X Tobar Bhride by Good Thyne) and is half-brother to four-star horses Bosun and First Mate. Patrickswell Royal is a 4-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare by Royal Storm and out of Rahard Sally. Patrickswells Royal’s damsire, Kings Master, is a son of the world famous event horse sire, Master Imp.
“I didn’t expect we’d be able to get Buccaneer. He had gone from his first Novice to winning at Preliminary in four months this year. I talked to the rider that produced him extensively and he hasn’t been broken even a year,” Ruthie said. “He went very well during the whole thing and he also just had the eye that I really liked. He’s a very kind horse. I’m thinking that he’s going to make an awesome junior/young rider type horse. The same with the mare. She’s green but I picked her on temperament and I’m glad we got her.”
Ruthie had been to the Go For Gold sale once before with Joe, which was the year they found a gem in Copper Beach, who ran his first four-star at Rolex Kentucky this year with Buck Davidson. “Martin Donohoe of Goresbridge kept telling me he hoped I would get one as good as Copper Beach out of this year’s sale,” Ruthie said. “One can only hope!”
On this trip Ruthie was looking for great amateur partners with one- and two-star potential. For a horse like this, Ruthie places a heavy emphasis on temperament. “I look for something that looks like it will be enjoyable to ride and train, the ones that are still trying even though they are tired (from three days of showcases). There’s a horse for everybody. In the end you want to make sure you find one that will do the job well for somebody,” she said.
“I had to go by myself and my clients had faith in me that I would make the right decisions, but you still never know that it will work out when you get back … We sell a lot of horses so for our clients, if a horse is not perfect for them they have an outlet to sell to us because it may be perfect for someone else.”
Jessica Payne’s new partner, Designer Class. Photo courtesy of Goresbridge, used with permission.
Paynes Welcome Two New Stars
Doug and Jessica Payne took their first trip to the Go For Gold sale at the urging of their friend and supporter Steve Blauner. Steve had purchased two horses at the sale last year, including Mr. Mitchel, who placed eighth at the USEA 4-year-old Young Event Horse Championships at Fair Hill just weeks after being crowned the 2016 Beginner Novice Horse Champion at the American Eventing Championships with Doug in the irons.
“We jumped at the opportunity to go,” Doug said. “It was a very interesting process. There is a lot to be learned … The two we came away with seemed well balanced, intelligent, smart and athletic horses. They are very inquisitive and easy going. They took everything in stride and seemed good natured in their outward appearance, and they looked incredibly sound back in the barn.”
Jessica purchased Designer Class (Chakiris X Roinin Dubh by Glenlara), who is 80% Thoroughbred and has close relations to several four-star event horses. Steve purchased an unnamed 3-year-old (Ars Vivendi X Olympics Corner by Olympic Lux) from Brandon View Stud, who will join Designer Class at the Paynes’ farm in Aiken. “These two were our favorites and we’re very lucky we got them,” Jessica said.
Doug and Jessica had observed all the young horses in the riding and free jump showcases, taken notes and highlighted their top picks. When they met the horses up close in the barns, they were joined by Steve’s brother Peter Blauner, VMD, who helped evaluate the horses’ soundness. Although their list of top choices changed as they got to know the horses more, Designer Class was one of Jess’s first picks, and he remained a favorite through to the end.
“His demeanor was quiet but his form never changed,” Jessica said. “He has very good form up front and behind, and it was effortless for him.”
Doug and Jessica will get their new prospects started slowly, and the coming 4-year-olds will start with ground work and lunging before going under saddle. Designer Class has a jump start on long lining and lunging already and Jessica hopes to be riding him soon.
“Aiken is awesome for the winter season for young horses, which is why we love coming here,” Jessica said. “Once we start breaking them, usually a couple of months in they can go to local shows and jumpers during the spring. It’s really cost effective and inexpensive to bring young ones along in Aiken. We can go from there and see what they’re about. If they don’t want to be event horses, we always make sure there is another avenue.”
Inside the Goresbridge Go For Gold Sale
The Goresbridge Go for Gold auction is a branch of the Goresbridge Horse Sales long run by the Donohoe family. The horses included in the Go for Gold sale are carefully selected by a panel of professionals that this year included Sally Parkyn, Clare Ryan and Chris Ryan. Prior to the sale, a detailed catalogue outlining the pedigree and experience of each horse is released along with performance footage. All horses undergo a vetting, and full sets of radiographs are made available to potential buyers.
“Goresbridge is an extremely professional operation and that has been an ingredient for success. I can’t say enough good things about the organization of it,” Ruthie said.
That being said, it is a unique horse shopping experience. Jessica mentioned that her list of top picks changed because the ones she liked on video were not necessarily the ones she liked in person. For Ruthie, the challenge is to identify the good qualities of a horse that may be tired from several days of showing.
“For the most part they are 4- and 5-year-old horses, and they can be pretty cooked by Wednesday on the third day,” Ruthie said. “You have to be able to see the difference between a tired horse and one that is careless or dull.”
While there are representatives for the horses present to share insight on how a horse has been produced or answer any questions a potential buyer may have, Ruthie said you can learn more about the horses standing ringside and watching a variety of other people ride them and see how they respond.
Doug agreed that it isn’t often that a buyer can sit and watch a great number of nice young horses be presented in such a way. “If you just sit down and to see all these quality horses in one place you can tell a lot about them and their different personality traits and how they figure out what is being asked of them,” he said.
As for the auction itself, Doug and Jess found that there is some strategy to keeping up with the ebb and flow of bidding. “Jess liked another one too, but it’s a risk,” Doug said. “If the first one goes cheap, do you go for that or wait and hope the next one doesn’t get too expensive?”
Two beautiful grays, one of which was Oliver Townend’s new son of a Gem Twist clone, were presented just prior to Designer Class, a plain bay. After the two flashy grays went for €31,000 and €22,000, Doug felt that maybe Designer Class went a little “under the radar.” This may have worked in their favor, as they snagged Jessica’s new mount for just €12,500.
Doug Payne and Lysander running Advanced at Stable View this October. Lysander was bred in the U.S. by Elizabeth Callahan and produced by Doug from the start. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Could It Work Here?
Finding and producing quality young horses in the United States is a complex conversation. On the one hand, U.S. event horse breeders often lament that upper-level riders and agents routinely travel to Europe in search of prospects. Despite the expense of international travel and importing, there are many arguments for shopping overseas, the density of quality sale horses and the ability to view many at one time being among them.
And while USEA’s Young Event Horse and Future Event Horse programs have made great strides in showcasing up-and-coming event horses and prospects in the States, there is still the challenge of bringing buyers and sellers together. So, we wondered aloud to both Ruthie and Doug, could an organized sale or auction like Goresbridge Go for Gold work in the U.S.?
“The values are certainly going up for good quality horses, so if you can produce them there is obviously a significant market for well-started good quality horses. The downside is finding them,” Doug said. “We’ve been very lucky to have a lot of domestically bred horses. If you’re going to go find babies it’s hard to do. Our strategy has been to have one yearling per year and we do our best to beat bushes and find babies.”
Ruthie felt that if someone would put in the time and effort to organize an event where sellers could showcase their youngsters and buyers could see a lot of quality animals in one place, it could be great for breeders as well as for the buyers. But she stressed that the young horses found at sales like Goresbridge Go For Gold are produced for that purpose.
“By and large a lot of top level four-star riders go to the sale to buy 3-year-olds. You see it loose jump and know they can get something at a decent price that might be a four-star prospect,” Ruthie said. “If it’s something that could take off in the States and tap into breeders that are around and get them to get 3-year-olds to the sales, it would be really good here.”
Posted by Mark Waldo Lehner on Sunday, November 27, 2016
Click to watch this awesome clip of Jade Anderson-Tucker and Fernhill Oreo, created by Mark Lehner of Hoofclix, the official photographer at this weekend’s Pine Top Thanksgiving Horse Trials.
I had a good laugh yesterday while driving home from the Pine Top Thanksgiving Horse Trials. My brother informed me that my 8-year-old little sister had declared to the family that I was assuredly rich because I had horses and a horse trailer. I laughed hysterically and later shared the story on my Facebook. While it’s funny to say, “no, you’ve confused the word ‘rich’ with the word ‘broke’,” I was reminded that in fact I am quite rich: Horse-rich and happy-rich. Because of this, I am not wealthy, but I’m okay with that and I bet most of you are too!
U.S. Weekend Action:
#OJCInternational: Website, Entries, Ride Times, Live Scores, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage
Pine Top Thanksgiving H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]
Monday News and Notes:
Richard Waygood has been confirmed as the new performance manager for the British eventing team. The former four-star eventer has been the performance manager for the British dressage squad for the past seven years and will join Chris Bartle, who was named performance coach last week, in directing Team Great Britain’s future. [Horse & Hound]
Eventing Nation skipper and lead chinchilla wrangler Jenni Autry and Diarm Byrne of Equiratings don’t just share a passion for cats and horses, but also a real knack for podcast domination. They’ve gotten into a charming groove on Eventing Podcast’s #LockerRoomTalk, and this week they have a stellar interview with Lauren Kieffer about her back story, her current string, and the roller coaster that is 2016. Check it out here! [Eventing Podcast #LockerRoomTalk with Lauren Kieffer]
The inaugural Ocala Jockey Club International horse trials kept the U.S. FEI calendar going longer than we’re used to, but the response was a positive and enthusiastic one, as well over 100 riders turned out to compete at the new venue and vie for $100k in prize money. The event caught the attention of local press, which covered the competition for several days. Check out the story and great photos from Sunday on the Ocala Star Banner.
I’m a huge Appaloosa fan, having ridden and competed an Appy pony for the last few years (and I heard ALL the ‘great’ Appy jokes), so I definitely notice all the Appaloosas at every event I go to. It’s cool to see them kicking butt at all levels, but I especially love when a member of this hardy breed makes it to the international level. My Kinda Party is an Appaloosa that completed his first one-star at OJC this weekend. Find out how “Windsor” got his start in eventing: [My Kinda Party Stands Out]
It’s that time of year when horse owners start obsessing about blanketing and worrying over whether their horses have enough clothes on. But remember that horses are naturally able to stay quite warm with a full winter coat. In fact, it’s easier for a horse to warm up than cool down, and it’s all thanks to his internal furnace. [Equine Internal Combustion]
Monday Video:
In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN each week. The EN staffers are big pony fans; in fact two of us are pony eventers. So this week we’re featuring pint-sized pocket rockets sure to capture your heart! We’ve included the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and contact information.
Arrabella. Photo courtesy of Courtney Cooper via Sport Horse Nation.
Arrabella – 2008, 14.2H, Bay Connemara Cross Mare
Arrabella is an amazing pony that could take someone just learning to jump all the way through the ranks. Imported from Ireland, she’s been shown competitively in the jumpers, eventing and also fox hunts. Arrabella would be best suited for a junior, young rider or small adult amateur rider.
For more information or to see our other horses for sale, please visit our website at www.csquarefarm.com
Located in Pennsylvania
Heavenly Colors. Photo courtesy Josh Schwartz via Sport Horse Nation.
“Heavenly Colors” – 13 year old beginner novice pony for sale!!
Iris is a 14.2hh quarter horse looking for her next rider to take through Beginner Novice. She does well in dressage, and then heads to stadium with a balanced and collected mindset. She goes around cross country bold and confident – no stops, clean, and consistent. Due to rider, she just moved up to BN this June and has placed in top five every time. She will make an excellent new partner for an AA/YR. She is a fun ride in all three phases and a gem on and off the farm. She loads on and off trailer with ease and stands for farrier. No vices and never spooks. Iris has a very sweet and forgiving personality; if the rider makes a mistake, she will take care of him/her. We are only selling her because rider has outgrown her. She really is an excellent option for somebody looking for a consistent and loving pony. Contact for videos.
Located in Georgia.
Archie. Photo courtesy of Caroline Teich via Sport Horse Nation.
Perfect junior mount! Archie is a super event pony and is looking for his next kid to teach. He is very fancy and easy on the flat and a kick ride to the fences, brave over fillers and xc. Archie has shown up to beginner novice level eventing and 2’9 Jumpers. He would be very suitable for hunters and hunter derbies, as he is rhythmical and quiet. He would also be suitable for straight dressage and knows movements up to 1st level. He has brought many riders through the ropes of eventing and is ready for his own person. For sale to only the perfect home! Negotiable on price before winter. Perfect for an Adult or junior rider.
Located in Massachusetts.
Listings included in this article are randomly selected and confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.
Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
It’s a very odd feeling, as the season wraps up and the days and weeks feel a bit slower, but I know many of us are looking forward to down time after a busy year. Area III is set to close out the 2016 competition year with two events this upcoming weekend, the traditional Pine Top Thanksgiving Horse Trials and the inaugural Ocala Jockey Club International Three-Day Event. Sporting Days in Aiken will officially kick off the 2017 competition year the following weekend, and then we all break until the first full weekend of January. One whole month without an event. How ever will we occupy our time?
U.S. Weekend Action:
Paradise Farm H.T. [Results]
Fresno County Horse Park H.T. [Results]
Monday News and Notes:
This up front and honest column by Jonathan Holling is making the rounds on social media. In it he observes that while the sport of eventing has made great strides in increasing safety and continues to study ways to improve the sport, but ultimately the riders have a responsibility to seek good help, be honest with themselves about their abilities and to make good decisions about moving up. [Honestly, We Are Not Good Enough]
Ahead of tomorrow’s FEI General Assembly, the FEI Bureau held an in-person meeting this weekend in Tokyo. Decisions related to eventing included rule changes to the formats for series including the Event Rider Masters, Nations Cup and Classics. A full report of the key decisions by the FEI Bureau can be read here. Tuesday’s FEI General Assembly, at which voting on major FEI decisions and governance of the sport will take place, including the proposed new formats for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, will be livestreamed free of charge at www.feitv.org.
Imagine that wicked a cramp in your calf or thigh muscle spreads to the majority of the muscles in your body and you can hardly move for the pain it causes. When that happens in horses, it’s called tying up, and no one particularly knows exactly why it happens and one cannot always predict the onset of it. There are plenty of theories for the causes of tying up and suggestions for managing horses that are prone to it. The sooner you can identify it, however, the sooner you can help your horse find relief. [5 warning signs your horse might be tying up]
Weekly Business Tip from Mythic Landing Enterprises:If you decide to sell logowear, make sure that you are selling items that people will actually want to wear. This often means that you have to spend a little extra money for something of higher quality, but it will pay off in the end when people where your gear everywhere. Additionally, look into companies that will allow you to create a store through their site. This way, the company is only making what people order, so you are saving a lot by not having to place a bulk order and guessing on sizing.
Best of the Blogs: A Horse Box Subscription Review
Monday Video: It’s easy to learn to love our sister sport, Combined Driving.
