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Leslie Threlkeld

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Buck Davidson and Allison Springer Lead on Day 2 at Plantation Field

By on Sep 15, 2016 6:30 pm -
Buck Davidson and Be Mine. Photo by Amy Dragoo. Buck Davidson and Be Mine. Photo by Amy Dragoo.

Dressage at the Plantation Field International Horse Trials continued today with the CIC* division A and the first 54 rides in the 81-horse CIC2* division.

Buck Davidson and Lisa Darden’s Be Mine were the only pair to break into the 30s today in the two-star to take the lead on a 39.4. This is the first FEI event back for the 10-year-old Rheinland Pfalz-Saar gelding after having been diagnosed with EPM last winter. “Bemine” had some down time during treatment, and they have competed him at horse trials close to home to keep his stress level down.

The disease was not immediately pinpointed, but Buck said the gelding went from being “really cool to not really cool fast.” There was no rhyme or reason to his behavior changes, Buck said. Bemine never went lame and his symptoms were felt more than seen.

“Last year he kept trying and kept going, but he must have been hurting and got himself quite nervous. Lisa is awesome and just wants to do what is best for him. We’ve taken our time to get here and he’s been schooling well at home,” Buck said.

“I’m excited that he was good today and hopefully he will be good for the rest of the weekend. He’s a super nice horse, and nobody wants to see them stressing. The fact that he’s leading is cool, but I would rather have him finish 10th and have a good confident go and come out a better horse after this. We don’t have any three-day plans this year. We’re just hoping to build his strength up and see how we go.”

EN is thrilled to confirm that after 15 years away from Unionville, including training out of Caroline Martin’s facility for the past 10 years, Buck is moving his family and business back home to Chesterland following the upcoming winter season. “We all mutually decided it was time,” Buck said. “Caroline is ready to go out on her own, and the Martins still have the horses with me. We’re all still great friends. My parents are here in Unionville, and there is no better place to train horses. I’m excited to be coming home.”

Currently sitting second after dressage in the CIC2* are Peter Barry and his own Long Island T on a 40.6. Lauren Kieffer and Jacqueline Mars’ Landmark’s Monte Carlo are third on 41.6. There are a lot of horses left to go tomorrow. Can anyway catch Buck and Bemine?

Allison Springer Leads CIC* in Lord Willing’s First FEI Competition

Allison Springer and the Lord Willing Syndicate’s Lord Willing are leading the CIC*-A on a 41.6. This is the 8-year-old Holsteiner gelding’s first FEI competition and Allison’s first CIC* since 2006 with Arthur. She also has 6-year-old Business Ben competing in the one-star; he is currently tied for 11th after dressage on a 47.0.

Allison nearly scratched from the event when a student was forced to withdraw, but having the opportunity to get the young horses out to an event with a big atmosphere is a valuable education. “These horses are getting opportunities that Arthur never had as a young horse,” she said. “I’m glad I came.”

Lord Willing, also known as Liam, came to Allison last year from Kelli Temple and his previous owner, Karen Fox. “He’s a good relationship sort of horse. He’s a lady’s ride and likes having his mom,” Allison said. “I’m excited about him. He’s still new to everything. He’s a super jumper … He gets nervous and he’s a ‘chatty Cathy,’ but he’s a sweet horse and fun to have around. He gets nervous, but in an honest, good sort of way.”

Lord Willing checks out the decorations before he and Allison Springer head down centerline. Photo by Amy Dragoo.

Lord Willing checks out the decorations before he and Allison Springer head down centerline. Photo by Amy Dragoo.

Kurt Martin rode Liam around the Intermediate at Loch Moy this summer while Allison was recovering from an injury sustained at Jersey Fresh in May. Allison said she will likely do another Intermediate with Liam and perhaps aim for a CIC2* to finish out the year.

Allison is looking forward to getting Liam out on the cross country to run on a good galloping course. At their most recent event at the USEA American Eventing Championship, Allison and Liam set out on the Preliminary course after a deluge of rain had saturated the ground, and she slowed down to be safe around the twistier parts of the course. They picked up some time penalties but still finished third overall.

“The (Plantation Field) course looks good. It is obviously a complete change from AEC,” she said. “This should be a lot better. This horse was great at AEC, but this sort of course produces horses better for the long run.”

The Plantation Field crew has been hard at work getting the footing on the cross country course ship shape for the horses, as the severe lack of rain in recent weeks has impacted the hardness of the ground. We explained in this post that Jamie Hicks and his grounds crew have been busy aerating, aggravating and watering the track around the clock.

“Mike Etherington-Smith is obviously one of best designers in the world. This is certainly one of the best facilities in America for cross country,” Buck said. “They are putting in 100 percent effort, and that’s all you can ask. This property has great grass, great old turf, but it hasn’t rained recently. I can’t thank the grounds crew enough. All you can ask for as a rider and someone who cares about horses is that they try, and they’re trying.”

We want to give a big shout out to USEF Managing Director of Eventing Joanie Morris, who is here competing with her 14-year-old Thoroughbred Four Schools. The gelding was bred in Ireland and was a steeplechase horse with 43 starts. His last race was 2013, and he was given to Joanie as a wedding present soon after. Go Joanie!

Dressage continues tomorrow with the rest of the CIC2*, CIC*-B and the CIC3*. The action gets underway at 8 a.m. EST, and you can watch the CIC3* live on USEF Network. Stay tuned for much more from the Best. Event. Ever.

#PlantationField: Website, Entries, Ride Times, Competitor Schedule, General Schedule, Live Scoring, USEF Network, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

CIC2*

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Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Partnership in Action at the AECs

By on Sep 14, 2016 3:00 pm -

Coti Hausman, of Waxhaw, North Carolina, and her 8-year-old Oldenburg gelding Quantico became eventing partners in 2014. They moved up to Preliminary this year and picked up two wins in a row before making their way to the USEA AEC from their home base in Waxhaw, NC to compete in the Preliminary Horse division.

Quantico, who was bred in the U.S. by Elizabeth Callahan and began his eventing career with Marcia Kulak, has never had a cross country jump penalty, and you can tell from the helmet cam that he is a quick study on course. What we love about this video is how Coti talks to Quantico as they go–praising, guiding and occasionally thanking her horse as they went.

Working together around Captain Mark Phillips’ tough Prelim track at the Tryon International Equestrian Center, Coti and Quantico finished clear with some time. We can’t wait to see more from this pair!

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Monday News and Notes from Fleeceworks

By on Sep 12, 2016 12:59 am -
I love this photo for the autumn feel, but the artist has an awesome series of shots from an impromptu encounter with this New Forest Pony. Photo by Tommy Clark/CC/Flickr.

I like this photo for the Autumn feel, but the photographer actually has an awesome series of shots from an impromptu encounter with this New Forest Pony. Click here to see the album which features some other beautiful nature shots. Photo by Tommy Clark/CC/Flickr.

My Facebook feed has been inundated with pictures of friends at horse shows, foxhunts and football games. If that’s not an indication that fall is right around the corner, I don’t know what is. I personally feel so much more active in fall, with the crisp, lively air giving me energy, interest in outdoor activities that aren’t miserably muggy, and the ability to sleep in a tiny bit longer before getting up to ride (6:30 a.m. is far more appealing than 4:30!) . That being said I can’t believe how the year has flown by already. I hope you all have studied your fall calendars closely and are inspired to set goals and work hard to achieve them. There’s still time to make 2016 everything you want it to be.

Events This Weekend:

Blenheim: Website, Entries & Scoring, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Five Points H.T. [Website] [Results]

CDCTA Fall H.T. [Website] [Results]

Bucks County H.T. [Website] [Results]

Poplar Place Farm September CIC & H.T. [Website] [Results]

Copper Meadows CIC & H.T. [Website] [Results]

Aspen Farms H.T. [Website] [Results]

Chardon Valley H.T. [Website] [Results]

Dreamcrest September H.T. [Website] [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

Entries for the October 12-16 Fair Hill International CCI close on Tuesday, September 13th. Additionally, ALL entries must be done through the FEI system, and the system shuts down at 3:00 pm EST on Tuesday (not midnight). Don’t be caught by surprise. The USEF will now charge a fee for any entries they must manually enter for riders after the closing. If you plan to compete, do the FEI entry right now!

The Beginner Novice level was developed by the USEA as an introduction to the sport almost 15 years ago and it has become one of the most popular divisions. Beginner Novice riders competing in USEA recognized competitions have not had to be USEA members and instead paid a $25 non member fee each time they competed, but that will change on December 1, 2016 as all riders will be required to be a USEA member in order to compete in recognized events.  [USEA Membership to be required for Beginner Novice after December 1]

The Paralympic Games are underway in Rio this weekend and the equestrian competition had its horse inspection on Saturday. Seventy-six athlete-and-horse combinations representing 29 countries, including 14 in the team competition, will compete in the equestrian event. The U.S. riders are Sydney Collier, Rebecca Hart, Margaret McIntosh, Angela Peavy and Roxanne Trunnell (individual). Go USA! [U.S. Paralympic Equestrian Team Fit and Ready for Rio]

Fresh off his bronze medal win at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, Canada’s Eric Lamaze returned to Canadian soil to compete in the CSIO5* Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ tournament last week. “I think we’re going to get a nice welcome home,” he said. [Eric Lamaze enjoys homecoming at Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’]

Weekly Business Tip from Mythic Landing Enterprises: Ever wonder what people are saying about you online? In today’s age of social media, it can be imperative to keep tabs on where your name is popping up online. Google Alerts is a great way of tracking this and is easy to set up: https://support.google.com/alerts/answer/4815696?hl=en. You’ll be notified whenever your competition results make it into an article or someone writes a blog about a clinic you taught.

Monday Video:

Weekend Roundup: Area VII Championships, Coast to Coast CIC Results & a Marriage Proposal

By on Sep 11, 2016 7:15 pm -

It was quite a busy week around the eventing nation. We’ve had our eyes on Blenheim Palace International and still feel like we’re a bit in recovery from Burghley and the AEC, but there was plenty going on from the West to the East Coast. Let’s take a look at some key results.

Aspen Farms, Yelm, WA (Area VII)

[Website] [Results]

Aspen Farms Fall Horse Trials hosted the second 2017 USEA Gold Cup qualifier, the Area VII Championship, and hosted Beginner Novice through Advanced level competitors in the horse trials, awarding over $25,000 in cash and prizes.

Adequan Gold Cup Advanced cross-country was amazing! #AFHT

Posted by Aspen Farms Horse Trials on Sunday, September 11, 2016

Mary Burke and her own Prince William won the Gold Cup Advanced division on a 38.4, adding two rails to their dressage score. In second was Sara Sellmer and TF Kreisler, also with two rails, and Jordan Linstedt and Revitavet Capato dropped from a tie for first after dressage to a third place finish overall.

Patience O’Neal and the wonderfully named Huw Munges were leading the Intermediate division after dressage on a 30.0, but 10 seconds of time on cross country moved them down to third and pumped Anne-Sophie Levesque and Eskapade into the lead. Patience show jumped double clear, however, while Anne-Sophie took a rail down, giving Patience and her Welsh Cob gelding the win by 0.5 points. Anne-Sophie and Eskapade finished second, and Natascha Eickert and Oktoberfest moved all the way up from tenth to third thanks to their double clear cross country round – the only one in the division.

Here’s your winner at #AreaVIIChamps Training Rider, Martha Wehling and Cavalier.

Posted by Aspen Farms Horse Trials on Sunday, September 11, 2016

Congratulations to the 2016 Area VII Champions: Karen O’Neal and My Lucky Day (Intermediate), Attila Rajnai and Harry Houdini (Preliminary), Genevieve Kirsch and Fleeceworks Cinco (Jr. Training), Sarah Lorenz and Zuara (Open Training), Martha Wehling and Cavalier (Training Rider), Alexandria Winter and The Duke (Jr. Novice), Julie Williams and Dark Horse (Novice Rider), Lisa Epply and Patos (Open Novice), Courtney Cemulini and Split Decision (Jr. Beginner Novice) and Sarah Matuszewski and Fiesta Bella (Open Beginner Novice).

Copper Meadows Horse Trials, Ramona, CA (Area VI)

[Website] [Results]

Copper Meadows welcomed riders from the Intro level up through Intermediate in the horse trials and also hosted a CIC*, CIC2* and CIC3*.

Amber Levine and Carry On won the CIC3*, leading from start to finish and adding nothing to their dressage score of 46.9. Heather Morris and the Team Express Group LLC’s Charlie Tango were second, adding only 1.2 penalties on cross country to finish on 49.4. Gina Miles and Corie Young’s Contalli Di Revel round out the top three.

Gina picked up a win with Liza MacNaughton’s Lanacapri in the CIC2*, coming fifth after dressage on a 57.2 and adding no other penalties in the jumping phases. Rebecca Braitling and Soaring Bird, owned by Andrea Baxter, also finished on their dressage score and were rewarded with a move up from eighth to second. Sandra Donnelly and Belshazzar led after the first phase, but 6.8 time penalties dropped them to a third place finish.

Who else is excited for this weekend?! #COPPERSTRONG

Posted by Copper Meadows Eventing on Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Heather Morris and Team Express Group LLC’s Get Rowdy handily won the CIC*, adding nothing to their dressage score of 46.7 with plenty of breathing room over second place Amber Levine and Otter Pop on a 55.3. Holly Fox and Flash Gordon moved up from sixth to finish third on a 56.3. Heather also won the Open Preliminary with Judith McSwain’s Fleeceworks Royal in the mare’s first event back after eye surgery as well as the Open Training with Peggy Moore’s Graceland’s Liebling.

Kesley Holmes and NZB the Chosen One were fourth after dressage and while they had 2 time penalties in show jumping, they were one of only two double clears to move them up for a win on a 42.0. Hawley Bennett-Awad and Jollybo are continuing to build their awesome new partnership. They were tied for second after dressage and while they were the only pair in the division without show jumping time penalties, they did add a rail to their score. Those four faults combined with two seconds over time on cross country gave them a final score of 42.1 for second place. Jaime Lawrence and True Distraction finished third on 52.1, moving up from fifth with a double clear cross country round.

 Poplar Place Farm CIC and HT, Hamilton, GA (Area III)

[Website] [Results]

Poplar Place Farm hosted Beginner Novice through Advanced as well as a CIC*, CIC2* and CIC3*. Jonathan Holling and Downtown Harrison led the three-star from start to finish with a dressage score of 54.1, a double clear show jumping round and a clear cross country with 12.4 time penalties. Joe Meyer picked up second and third with Clip Clop and South Paw, respectively, adding no jumping penalties between them.

Jonathan picked up yet another win in the CIC2* with Direct Puissance. They crossed the finish line only one second over optimum time on cross country to finish on a 59.0 with room to spare. Laura Welsh had a clear and fast round with only 0.8 time penalties on Galactic to move into second on 67.9, and Laura and Toute Va Bien rounded out the top three with a final score of 69.4.

In the CIC*, Morgan Batton and Toby the Coal Man were one of two combinations to finish on their dressage score (the other was Laura Welsh riding Cape Town) and so moved up from fourth to ultimately win on a 60.3. Joe Meyer and Fashion Forward added two rails  and 1.4 time penalties across both jumping phases for second on 63.5, and Elissa Gibbs and Miss Ruby Cooley were very close behind in third on 63.9 with two clear jumping rounds and 1.2 time penalties to add.

There were only two competitors in the Advanced division and it was Rebecca Hoos and Little Cruz who finished on top, finishing on a final score of 84.5. Lexi Scovil and Charleston VI were second on 86.6.

Daisy Trayford and Normandy Soldier won the Open Intermediate division, edging out Leslie Law with a faster cross country round. Leslie finished had 8.4 time penalties on both Fernhill Whatever and Tre’ du Kernat to finish second and third respectively.

Five Points Horse Trials, Raeford, NC (Area II)

[Website] [Results]

Five Points Horse Trials was plenty busy hosting a Beginner Novice through Advanced Horse Trials and a Beginner Novice through Intermediate Combined Test plus Future Event Horse, Young Event Horse and New Event Horse division plus a Derby Cross.

We are just beaming that EN’s own Kate Samuels and her fancy French fellow Nyls Du Terroir won the Advanced division. They were second after dressage and show jumping, but a clean, quick round on cross country with only 6.8 time penalties to add moved them up to win on a 48.3. Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlet finished second on 48.9 having added 16.8 time penalties on cross country.

It came down to a tiebreaker in the Open Intermediate division. Kathy Cain and Legal Limit tied with Caitlin Silliman and Vagabon de Champdoux with dressage scores of 32.1. Both pairs dropped a rail in show jumping and both went double clear on cross country. So who finished closer to the optimum time to win the tie? Kathy and Legal Limit crossed the finish line just one second under optimum while Caitlin came in 7 seconds under optimum, so Kathy took home the blue ribbon and Caitlin the red. In third place was Susan Jellum and Rochambeau, finishing on 47.6 and crossing the finish exactly on the optimum time. Great sense of timing, ladies!

We also extend a heartfelt congrats to McKenzie Dey and her beloved, who got engaged during the event. McKenzie also finished sixth in the Open Novice with Payback, which is icing on the cake, right?

Love is in the air at Five Points! Congrats! #fivepoints #chp

Posted by Carolina Horse Park on Saturday, September 10, 2016

Relive Burghley Cross Country Fence by Fence

By on Sep 11, 2016 4:30 pm -

Hopefully you’ve had a fun-filled weekend with your favorite horses and people, but it’s getting to be time to wind down the weekend and start prepping for a fresh new work week. Of course you’ve got plenty to think about–project goals at the office, the next horse show on your calendar, vet and farrier appointments–but you definitely want need to sit down, get comfortable, and for the next half-hour relive the thrill and excitement of 2016 Burghley cross country, fence by fence.

Thanks to harveywetdog for putting together this amazing recap of what was the toughest Burghley cross country day in recent history. Check out more videos on harveywetdog’s Youtube page.

Oliver Townend Takes Event Rider Masters Title, Thomas Carlile Wins Series Finale at Blenheim

By on Sep 11, 2016 11:45 am -
Oliver Townend and ERM winner Cillnabradden Evo pictured at Blair Castle. Photo by Libby Law Photography. Oliver Townend and ERM winner Cillnabradden Evo pictured at Blair Castle. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

What an exciting conclusion to the inaugural Event Rider Masters Series today at the Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials. Great Britain’s Oliver Townend put his foot down on the cross country to finish only two seconds over the optimum time with Cillnabradden Evo to edge ahead of Jonelle Price and Cloud Dancer in the ERM CIC3* division. An ultimate second place finish gave Oliver enough points on the Event Rider Masters Series leaderboard to win the overall title and the £30,000 prize on 100 total points.

Jonelle (NZL) finished third in the ERM CIC3* division at Blenheim and second on the Series leaderboard with 95 points. Jonelle and Cloud Dancer, owned by the Marley and Me Syndicate, were tied for second after dressage on 41.7, but an unfortunate rail and one second of time in this morning’s show jumping dropped them back to eighth. Although the 9-year-old Dutch gelding is not the fastest horse and still managed to finish just one second over the time with Jonelle’s smart riding, even a double clear round would not have been quite enough to put them ahead of Oliver and Cillnabradden Evo.

Paul Tapner for Australia and Yogi Bear VIII were double clear on cross country, but an eighth place finish in the division wasn’t good enough to add points to their ERM Series result, so they finish third in the series on 93 points. Gemma Tattersall was also in the running for the Series win and a first place finish in the division would have given them the Series title outright, but she unfortunately retired on course with Chico Bella P at fence 16, having had a refusal earlier on at 13, putting her out of contention.

Oliver has had a remarkable go in the inaugural ERM Series, picking up a wins at Gatcombe and Blair Castle and very nearly making it a hat trick at Blenheim, all on the same horse. Cillnabradden Evo is a 10-year-old black stallion owned by Sally-Anne Egginton, and the pair has four FEI victories on their record since partnering in January 2015. At Blenheim they were 11th after dressage on 45.7, were clear this morning in the show jumping and then added only 0.8 penalties on cross country to finish just over 2 penalty points behind Thomas Carlile (FRA) and Upsilon.

Thomas Carlile Wins the Final ERM Leg at Blenheim

Thomas and the Anglo-Arab stallion Upsilon were second after dressage on a 41.7 and a clear round in show jumping this morning moved them into the lead. They could only afford to be 11 seconds over the optimum time on cross country to win the class, and with the riders going out on course in reverse order of standing and Oliver watching the live stream from the podium seating had us all on the edge of our seats for the final round.

Upsilon, owned by Carlile Complet Eventing and Scea de Beliard, is just a wonderful horse to watch jump. He’s very careful, clever and quick off the ground. Thomas said after his ride that the horse doesn’t much like touching brush but other than his coloring (a gray can get very dirty!) “you cannot fault him.” A moment or two on course had the commentators on the ERM live stream catching their breath, but Thomas used all his experience to help the talented 8-year-old get home safe, and they crossed the finish just in time to add 2.4 penalties and secure the win and £16,000 first prize.

Besides a victory at Blenheim, Thomas Carlile and Upsilon were second in the fourth leg of the Series at Gatcombe but Thomas, who finished fifth overall with 71 points, lamented that he didn’t know about the Series sooner. Besides just one event where they did not complete, Upsilon has finished no lower than 5th place since his first CCI* in 2014. Keep that in mind when the Series starts again in 2017!

The Event Rider Masters Series was created to “welcome and entertain new audiences as well as those already engaged with the sport” and “packaged specifically for television, with sophisticated commentary, innovative camera techniques and informed by statistical analysis of the kind used by other televised sports.” This year featured six of Britain’s top events and in 2017 the Series aims to expand to other countries and double the number of competitions included, which would undoubtedly bring in additional riders and further their goal of maintaining an ever-changing leaderboard.

This first year of the Series was certainly an exciting one for all of us here at EN and we’ve truly enjoyed following along. You can review all our coverage of the series at this link and be sure we look forward to the 2017 edition and hopefully a leg added in the United States soon as well! Congratulations to all the individuals behind the Event Rider Masters Series who made the inaugural year such a resounding success and to the riders who participated not only as competitors but as key figures and promoters of the sport.

Blenheim Links: Website, Entries & Scoring, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Event Rider Masters Series Top 10:

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Blenheim Event Rider Masters CIC3* Top 10: ">
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Nikita Sotskov Dies in Rotational Fall at Ratomka Minsk CIC3*

By on Sep 10, 2016 8:25 pm -
Photo via Wikimedia Commons Photo via Wikimedia Commons

We are saddened to report that 21-year-old Nikita Sotskov of Russia died today while competing in the CIC3* at Ratomka Horse Trials in Minsk, Belarus. Nikita and his horse Larry Carlton rotated over fence 21 — the second to last jump on course — and Nikita could not be saved by on-site medical specialists. The horse suffered a minor injury to its left hind leg.

Nikita represented Russia at two European Championships as both a junior and a young rider. Ratomka was his first CIC3* attempt.

“Nikita Sotskov was one of Russia’s promising young riders and this news will have a profound effect on all those involved in the sport,” said FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez.

Ratomka’s President of the Ground Jury Natallia Yuranava said, “At every FEI event, the maximum consideration is given to the safety and welfare of horses and competitors. On behalf of the whole sport I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Nikita Sotskov’s family.”

Safety is at the forefront of the minds of eventing participants be they competitors, owners, organizers or officials. “Safety in equestrian sport is a top priority for the FEI and all National Federations, and the FEI is working continuously to make the sport as safe as possible for all athletes, both human and equine. The circumstances of today’s accident will be fully reviewed,” read the FEI’s statement on the accident.

The statement also said that the USA’s own David O’Connor has been nominated to chair the FEI Risk Management working group, a group which “will focus on coordinating initiatives on a global basis, including technology developments, data and statistics, as well as further educational outreach for athletes, course designers, coaches and technical delegates. The working group’s remit is to look at all options to minimise risk factors and is in addition to the FEI’s continual work focused on improving safety in the sport.”

Our thoughts are with Nikita’s family and friends in this difficult time.

[Statement on fatal accident at Ratomka, Minsk CIC3* (Belarus)]

Astier Nicolas Leads Final Leg of Event Rider Masters Series After Dressage at Blenheim

By on Sep 10, 2016 10:00 am -
Astier Nicolas on his way to winning the first ERM Series leg at Chatsworth with Piaf de B'Neville. Photo courtesy of Event Rider Masters. Astier Nicolas on his way to winning the first ERM Series leg at Chatsworth with Piaf de B'Neville. Photo courtesy of Event Rider Masters.

The final leg of the inaugural Event Rider Masters Series takes place this weekend at Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials. The winner of this final leg will walk away with £16,000, but the results of this event will also determine the overall winner of the series, who will receive £30,000.

Frenchman Astier Nicolas, fresh off a team gold and individual silver performance at Rio, is currently leading the ERM CIC3* after dressage at Blenheim. He and Molakai, a 12-year-old gelding owned by Carole Broad, scored a 41.3 in dressage to take the lead, but barely.

Olympic Team Gold and Individual Silver medallist for France, Astier Nicolas is always one to watch. He was our first…

Posted by Event Rider Masters on Saturday, September 10, 2016

Astier and Molokai’s last three CIC3* events this year have seen the pair produce double clear cross country rounds across the board, but they have yet to show jump clear, and they have little breathing room after today.

Jonelle Price and The Marley and Me Syndicate’s Cloud Dancer II is tied for second with Thomas Carlile and Carlile Complet Eventing and Scea de Beliard’s Upsilon on a 41.7. Jonathan Paget and Frances Stead and Russell Hall’s Clifton Signature are fourth on 41.9, which happens to be the 12-year-old Hanoverian’s career best FEI dressage performance.

Even if Astier wins the ERM leg at Blenheim, he cannot garner enough points to win the whole series. There are currently four individuals in the running to win the overall series: Paul Tapner, the current series leader with 93 points; Gemma Tattersall, currently second in the series with 92 points; Oliver Townend, third with 74 points; Jonelle Price, fourth with 71 points.

#ERMeventing series leader and former Badminton Champion, Paul Tapner starts his Blenheim Palace International Horse…

Posted by Event Rider Masters on Saturday, September 10, 2016

With the point system being what it is (you can read up on the series rules and scoring here), there are a whole slew of possible outcomes based on where each of these four riders finish on the leaderboard at Blenheim. Horse & Hound’s Pippa Roome has made sense of it all and written out the detailed circumstances in this post.

As it stands now, Jonelle, Paul and Oliver are all in the top ten and within five points of the lead after dressage. Gemma sits within striking distance in 14th, less than one point outside the top ten leaderboard.

But then, our friends at EquiRatings think Karin Donckers has a good shot at the win.

Only time will tell! The scores are very close and the weather has added an extra element of difficulty. Show jumping for the ERM division gets underway Sunday at 9:30 a.m. local time followed by cross country at 1:15 p.m. Remember ERM is streaming the competition online. Watch live at eventridermasters.tv.

Blenheim Links: Website, Entries & Scoring, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

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Who Jumped It Best? #AEC16 Edition

By on Sep 6, 2016 9:00 am -

Somehow we made it through five days of the USEA American Eventing Championship without posting a single Who Jumped It Best. Fear not, now is your chance to choose which Junior Novice horse and rider combination present the best overall picture as they leap over the iconic AEC show jump, which incidentally didn’t make an appearance until the final day of competition.

Being that this was a championship event and we’re looking at some of the country’s best Junior Novice pairs, we’ve made this edition of WJIB slightly more difficult. The angle that the photo was taken is slightly more closed than the typical 45 degrees that makes easier to judge a rider’s leg position and a horse’s bascule.

Vote in the poll at the bottom of the post for which horse and rider you think present the best overall picture. It’s a tough choice this time around and better you than me! Good luck and remember … it’s all in good fun.

#AEC16: Website, Final Scores, EN’s Coverage, Instagram

Savannah Blackstock and The Unicorn. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Savannah Blackstock and The Unicorn. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Lexi Coleman and Celtic Sapphire. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Lexi Coleman and Celtic Sapphire. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Mia Fox and Sport Tracker. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Mia Fox and Sport Tracker. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Teagan Lapuk and My Blue Heaven. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Teagan Lapuk and My Blue Heaven. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Reiss McKinney and Uptown Funk. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Reiss McKinney and Uptown Funk. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Skylar Norris and Don Ramina. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Skylar Norris and Don Ramina. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Greer Robinson and Springsteen. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Greer Robinson and Springsteen. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

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Monday News and Notes from Fleeceworks

By on Sep 5, 2016 12:50 am -
Ryan Wood's Powell, staring straight into my soul. Photo by yours truly. Ryan Wood's Powell, staring straight into my soul. Photo by yours truly.

That’s a wrap on another USEA American Eventing Championship. I think it’s safe to say that the inaugural year of the AEC being at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in North Carolina was a resounding success. Besides a record number of entries, the world-class facility and Championship-caliber courses, it’s the camaraderie, fun and fellowship that makes this one of our favorite events of the year, no matter where it is located. There are so many amazing people to meet and stories to tell, it’s impossible to get to them all, but believe us that each and every one of you is an inspiration and we are so glad to be on this journey with you, in our small way.

#LRBHT: Website, Entries, Results, Burghley TV, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, @samanthalclark, Instagram

U.S. Weekend Action:

Nutrena USEA American Eventing Championships: Website, Results, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T. [Website] [Results]

Silverwood Farm Fall H.T. [Website] [Results]

Woodland Stallion Station H.T. [Website] [Results]

Kentucky Classique H.T. [Website] [Results]

OHTA Championships at Oakhurst Farm [Website] [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

Ben Way blogged his way through Burghley, chronicling his experience for Horse and Hound each day of competition as well as leading up to the big event. Ben and Galley Light finished in 35th place after the toughest Burghley competition in recent memory. Read all his blog entries here.

Lisa Samuel fell in love the Fjord breed two years ago and purchased Corgi Hill Benson, who Lisa calls her “life pony.” Lisa’s trainer Erika Nesler was bringing an Intermediate and Preliminary horse to the AEC and decided to ride Benson, too, in the Beginner Novice and had a blast, with Lisa cheering them on. [Erika Nelser is having the time of her life]

The Del Mar Showpark played host to the All Seasons Summer Tournament this weekend and last weekend played host to Medal Finals and Hunter Championships. Check out our sister site Jumper Nation’s roundup of favorite sights and scenes from Del Mar. [Back at the Barn]

Weekly Business Tip from Mythic Landing Enterprises: While you probably write down goals for your riding, how often do you write down your business goals? This can be an informal document that you can use to give you guidance on making business decisions. For example, let’s say your business plan states that your targeted market is, “first time riders from ages 8 to 13.” This would be used to steer your marketing efforts, your decisions on the purchase of specific animals to fit this need, and who you would partner with. When you have it in writing, it makes it easier for you to refer back to when making decisions.

Cindy Deporter Clinches Hard Fought Novice Master Amateur Championship

By on Sep 4, 2016 4:15 pm -
Cindy Deporter and Ana D take a victory lap at AEC. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld. Cindy Deporter and Ana D take a victory lap at AEC. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Cindy Deporter, of Oxford, NC, had a tumultuous year but through everything remained determined to compete at the USEA American Eventing Championship with her 11-year-old Hanoverian mare Ana D. Her perseverance paid off as she clinched the win in the Novice Master Amateur Championship yesterday, finishing on her dressage score of 39.5.

Suzanne Murray, of Hilton Head, SC, and her and Neal Murray’s 19-year-old Oldenburg gelding Gunnar tied Cindy and Ana in dressage. While both pairs jumped double clear on cross country and show jumping, Cindy and Ana were five seconds closer to the optimum time to come out ahead in the tie.

Cindy was third heading into the final phase and after securing a top three finish at least with a clear round, the remaining two riders each had rails, giving Cindy and Ana their well earned victory. Through her elation for winning, it was lovely to see Cindy reach for the hand of the overnight leader and exclaim wholeheartedly, “I wanted you to win!”

Suzanne Murray and Gunnar. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Suzanne Murray and Gunnar. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The Master Amateur divisions are for riders aged 40 and up and are an excellent representation of a large majority of the sport’s lower level population. What’s more is they are so happy to be here with their horses and be a part of the Championship alongside their friends and family. It warms our hearts and proves to us what this Championship is all about!

Now, let’s hear from Cindy and Suzanne in this equal parts hilarious and inspiring interview. Take it away, ladies!

#AEC16: Website, Schedule, Rides Times & Live Scores, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

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New York’s Troy Wing Eventing Team Makes the Most of the Trip to AEC

By on Sep 4, 2016 11:54 am -
Troy Wing Eventing from left: Bob Fischetto, Miranda Fischetto, Donna Fischetto, Sarah Fischetto (crouching), Troy Wing, Taylor Wing, Landon Wing, Chantrelle Hayes, Joani Hardy. Leslie Threlkeld Photo. Troy Wing Eventing from left: Bob Fischetto, Miranda Fischetto, Donna Fischetto, Sarah Fischetto (crouching), Troy Wing, Taylor Wing, Landon Wing, Chantrelle Hayes, Joani Hardy. Leslie Threlkeld Photo.

Troy Wing Eventing, based at Altair Farm in Rochester, New York, had not initially planned to attend the 2016 AEC, but when they realized several of them were qualified they decided to make the 15 hour drive to Mill, Spring, NC to compete. They brought along several horses and were supported by an enthusiastic team of family and friends.

The trip was definitely worth it as Sarah Fischetto and Sin Fallo led the Novice Amateur division from start to finish, winning on their dressage score of 24.3, and Chantrelle Hayes and Billy Gunn finished on their dressage score of 36 for a 10th place finish in Beginner Novice Amateur.

The Troy Wing Eventing team as a whole had a great energy and were a joy to chat with. They got on the road home bright and early today so we’re wishing them safe travels and hope to see them again next year!

Go Eventing.

Marilyn Little Crowned Intermediate Champion, Reserve Champion in First AEC Appearance

By on Sep 3, 2016 7:47 pm -
Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous. Photo by Leslie Wylie. Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Marilyn Little took command of the Intermediate Championship at the 2016 AEC right from the get go, scoring a 22.3 in dressage with her Pan American Games gold medal partner RF Scandalous. “Kitty,” owned by Jacqueline Mars, Robin Parsky and Phoebe and Michael Manders has evented only once since Boekelo last October, but the 11-year-old Oldenburg mare didn’t miss a beat on yesterday’s cross country, crossing the finish just one second over time.

Then today, Marilyn and Kitty jumped one of only seven double clear rounds over Marc Donovan’s influential show jumping course to secure the win in a huge division of 54 starters with more than 10 points to spare.

Marilyn Little and RF Overdressed. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Marilyn Little and RF Overdressed. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Marilyn also picked up the Reserve Championship with RF Overdressed, a 9-year-old Hanoverian gelding owned by Jacqueline Mars, Robin Parsky and Raylyn Farms. They were tied for fifth after dressage, produced one of only two double clear cross country rounds in the division and dropped one rail today to finish second on a 34.1. 

Marilyn did pick up a heartbreaking technical elimination with RF Demeter in the Advanced division when she ran right past fence 21 on cross country this afternoon and failed to correct the mistake before jumping fence 22, which Marilyn addresses near the end of the video below. A frustrating result to be sure but that doesn’t dampen her spirits over the great results with in the Intermediate Championship

Boyd Martin and Christine Turner’s 9-year-old Trakehner gelding Tsetserleg were 15th after dressage on a 31.7, but 2.4 time penalties to add on cross country and a careful double clear round today moved them all the way to a third place finish.

#AEC16: Website, Schedule, Rides Times & Live Scores, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

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“You Are Awesomesauce!” AEC Helmet Cam

By on Sep 3, 2016 1:00 pm -

Here’s the first of many AEC helmet cams we hope share with you and it’s a good one.  Justin Hull and his own 14-year-old Andalusian gelding Sterling Silver were double clear during yesterday’s cross country and just jumped double clear again in show jumping to finish in 6th place in the Novice Master Amateur Championship.

The cross country courses here at the Tryon International Equestrian Center are definitely Championship caliber, and through sprinkles of rain and a very busy track, Justin gave his horse constant words of encouragement like “nicely done!” “feet go here!” and my favorite, “you are awesomesauce!”

#AEC16: Website, Schedule, Rides Times & Live Scores, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Monday News and Notes from Fleeceworks

By on Aug 22, 2016 12:10 am -

The 2016 Rio Olympics officially ended last night with the closing ceremonies, wrapping up a remarkable Summer Games. This Olympics had everything: controversy, world records, bullets in the media center, USA equestrians bringing home team and individual medals…we won’t forget these last weeks very soon!

And yet, it somehow seems ages ago that the eventing competition concluded and we’re already thinking ahead to the World Equestrian Games in 2018 and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Who will be at the top of their game when we get there? Will there be new stars standing on the podium alongside our veterans? EN is glad to be part of the journey! #twohearts

U.S. Weekend Action:

Genesee Valley Riding & Driving Club H.T. [Website] [Results]

Waredaca Farm H.T. [Website] [Results]

Full Gallop Farm August H.T. [Website] [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

There has been a lot of confusion over whether or not you can in fact replay the equestrian portions of the Olympic Games. The answer is YES! As long as you have a cable or satellite subscription, you can log in and watch full replays of any of the several hundred Olympic events on NBC Olympics. Why they made it so incredibly difficult to navigate, however, is a question you’ll have to ask NBC. [Click here for step by step instructions]

While we’re of course grateful to be able to watch the Olympics on video at all, there have been a lot of first world problems surrounding the live stream these last weeks. [Jumper Problems: Olympic Streaming Edition]

A lawsuit has been filed against Kalmbach Feeds, Inc., the maker of Tribute Equine Nutrition. The plaintiffs Derek and Rebecca Smith are suing for negligence, fraud, and product liability after losing several horses to allegedly contaminated feed. This is not the first tragic report of equine lives lost or greatly affected by the possible cross contamination of medicated and non-medicated feeds during production. It’s a reminder to be diligent and do thorough research as to what your horses are eating, where it comes from and whether contamination is a risk. [Horse owners sue Kalmbach over contaminated equine feed]

Weekly Business Tip from Mythic Landing Enterprises: Depending on the size of your business, it can be a good idea to put together an e-newsletter that you send out to just your contact list monthly or quarterly, versus an e-blast which can be sent out to a much broader list. These e-newsletters are a great place to highlight your team’s successes and feature upcoming events, new services and sponsors. If you do have an e-newsletter, you will want to make sure that there is an easy way for people to sign up. Many companies, such as Constant Contact, can provide a button that you can put on your website so that people can sign up for your e-newsletter right there and then be automatically added to your database.

Monday Video:

American Eventing Championships Cross Country Maps Released

By on Aug 16, 2016 9:56 pm -
Eric Dierks and Magical Monte on course at TIEC. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld. Eric Dierks and Magical Monte on course at TIEC. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The cross country maps have been made public for the upcoming Nutrena USEA American Eventing Championships, presented by Land Rover, at the Tryon International Equestrian Center!

The courses, designed by Captain Mark Phillips, begin and end in the expansive Derby Field and have at least a couple efforts in the adjacent sand arena before heading out on the brand new cross country track.

The Derby Field. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The Derby Field. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Intermediate and Advanced are the only courses to route down towards the river, where spectators will be able to view the course from above and follow the horses via elevated walking trails.

All levels except Training tackle two water complexes, one in the Derby Field and the one in the photo below, which on the maps is shown to be bordered by residential buildings that have not yet been constructed.

One of two water complexes. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

One of two water complexes. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Follow the links below to view the course maps for each level and click here to check out our preview and photo gallery of the track. Go Eventing.

Advanced | Intermediate | Preliminary | Training | Novice | Beginner Novice

Monday News and Notes from Fleeceworks

By on Aug 15, 2016 12:21 am -
Dom Schramm and Bolytair B. Photo courtesy of Schramm Equestrian. Dom Schramm and Bolytair B. Photo courtesy of Schramm Equestrian.

This sport is a humbling one. One minute you’re up, the next you’re tumbling down…Dom Schramm experienced the full gamut of emotions at the GMHA Festival of Eventing in South Woodstock, VT this weekend. He won the Open Intermediate with Bromont CCI* winner Bolytair B (and a generous $4,000 check) but took a tumble in the one-star with FE Charles Owen (they’re totally fine). To top it all off, he won Open Novice with the lowest final score of the competition–an incredible 15.2–with Cooley Renaissance Man. Way to keep kicking on, Dom!

U.S. Weekend Action:

GMHA Festival of Eventing August H.T. [Website] [Results]

Fair Hill August H.T. [Website] [Results]

WindRidge Farm Summer H.T. [Website] [Results]

Erie Hunt and Saddle Club H.T. [Website] [Results]

Otter Creek Summer H.T. [Website] [Results]

The Summer Event at Woodside H.T. [Website] [Results]

Stanton Farms H.T. [Website] [Live Scores]

Area VII Young Rider Benefit H.T. [Website] [Results]

Colorado Horse Park H.T. [Website] [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

Tamie Smith is taking her career to the next level and heading to Europe with three talented horses and plans to compete at the Blenheim Palace CCI3* and the Le Lion D’Angers Seven Year Old World Championships. There are four days left in the fundraising auction and there are almost 90 awesome items up for grabs ranging from show entries to unique training opportunities to romantic getaways. [Click here to bid!]

The show jumping competition at the Rio Olympic Games got underway yesterday with the first individual qualifying round that determines the jumping order for the team competition. It’s been an intense competition already, but Team USA riders are all qualified for the next individual round and Team USA will jump sixth out of 15 nations in the first team round on Tuesday. [U.S. Show Jumping Team Begins Competition at Rio Olympic Games]

Brazil’s Stephan de Freitas Barcha has been turning heads in the show jumping world this year, producing impressive clear rounds on some of the toughest courses, including today’s first qualifying round at the Olympics. [A Believer and the Horse of a Lifetime]

If you missed the live stream of the U.S. Pony Finals on USEF Network, you can catch up with all the adorable action On Demand. [Click here to watch!]

Monday Video: They are Olympic medalists, but their rise to stardom was not an easy one and nearly came to a premature end. Click here to watch a video on the story of Laura Graves and Verdades.

FEI Sets Charlotte and Valegro’s Freestyle To New Music & It’s Ridiculous

By on Aug 14, 2016 5:00 pm -

The FEI has been busy revamping it’s marketing strategy during the Rio Olympics in an effort to draw in a new, younger generation of fans. Their productions have been creative, albeit unusual, and definitely get your attention, but things like this creepy “Hoofloose” video have left equestrians cringing.

In this latest attempt, Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro’s beautiful test work is set to different genres of music. Seems harmless enough but it’s definitely not what you would expect. I don’t hate the metal and pyrotechnics, but the video game frog face and electronic dance numbers are a bit much. Warning: If you’re sensitive to strobes, best not watch this one.

Who Jumped It Best? Windridge Horse Trials Edition

By on Aug 14, 2016 2:00 pm -

Windridge Farm is a family-owned farm in Mooresboro, NC with rolling terrain, a friendly atmosphere and dedicated competitors who make a point to attend their seasonal events.

The competition this weekend featured Beginner Novice through Preliminary, plus Preliminary/Training, Starter and the newly developed Coaching Allowed test at Beginner Novice level. (Click here for final results)

All levels popped over one of these substantial brush palisades late in the course designed by Jon Wells and built by Rob Mobley. Decide which Training horse and rider you feel jumped it best.

Sara Beth Anton and Rico Suave. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Sara Beth Anton and Rico Suave. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Cathy Blackmon and Hideaways Special Delive. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Cathy Blackmon and Hideaways Special Delivery. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Angela Lenning and Alphanumeric. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Angela Lenning and Alphanumeric. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Cheryl Ray and Glory. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Cheryl Ray and Glory. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Krista Rose and By His Grace. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Krista Rose and By His Grace. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Catherine Schumak and Fuersty Love. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Catherine Schumak and Fuerst Love. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

John Michael Durr’s Road to the AEC

By on Aug 14, 2016 9:22 am -

John Michael Durr’s road to the Nutrena USEA American Eventing Championships has been a long one. Earlier this month John Michael, an upper level eventer and show jumper and rising course designer, packed up and departed his base in Castro Valley, Calif. heading East.

Three days later, John Michael arrived in Tryon, North Carolina with eight horses, a working student and Sterling, the cat. His wife Kimmy drove across the country the following week with four more horses in tow.

The horses of Durr Eventing have spent the last several weeks acclimating to the environment and getting in some jumping practice during horse shows at the Tryon International Equestrian Center. This is John Michael competing Ruth Bley’s Secret Story in yesterday’s $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby:

John Michael Durr and Secret Story. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

John Michael Durr and Secret Story. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

We ran in to John Michael during Saturday Night Lights at TIEC yesterday evening and learned more about how he’s been enjoying his time on the East Coast.

Many thanks to JM for the impromptu chat and huge apologies for the awful lighting.

The AEC is getting steadily closer and we can’t wait to meet more of the many riders that will be trekking to North Carolina from all corners of the country! Go Eventing.

Saturday Video: A Pony Rider’s ‘Perfect’ Dismount

By on Aug 13, 2016 4:30 pm -

Posted by Konglungen Rideklubb on Friday, August 12, 2016

We can’t stop watching this clip of a little rider doing her best impression of Ruy Fonseca and executing some impressive gymnastics moves when her pony unseats her over a jump. She makes this unscheduled dismount look graceful while her precious pony waits patiently for her to sort out which way is up. Kick on, kiddo!

Get a Sneak Peek at Tryon’s AEC Cross Country Course

By on Aug 13, 2016 10:40 am -
Eric Dierks and Magical Monte set out on course at TIEC. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld. Eric Dierks and Magical Monte set out on course at TIEC. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The USEA American Eventing Championship is coming up in two weeks time, and hundreds of America’s top riders at all levels will converge on Mill Spring, North Carolina to compete at the world-class Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC).

Bringing the AEC back to the East Coast was a popular choice, and if the entries are any indication, riders are excited to compete at the expansive facility.

Hosting the AEC at TIEC has not come without reservations, however. There was no cross country course to speak of when the announcements were made and the venue has been undergoing major construction ever since.

When the Pony Club Championships rolled around last month, we all expected to see the first horses galloping out on the newly built cross country. The Beginner Novice through Preliminary courses, however, were confined to a Derby Field and two adjacent arenas and the rumors that the real cross country course would not be ready for AEC spread with renewed vigor.

It just so happens that I live less than an hour from TIEC, so I decided to go see for myself. Having driven by the resort a number of times this year I, too, have become increasingly skeptical as progress seemed slow. There was no clear indication where the course would actually go and not a blade of grass was yet growing.

But before I dive into the details. I will tell you what you really want to know, which is the course WILL be ready in two weeks. There is still quite a bit of construction happening around it, but the cross country track itself, green and gorgeous, is ready for horses to run and jump.

The Derby Field. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The Derby Field. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Mark Bellissimo himself greeted me at TIEC this Thursday and we hopped on an ATV to take a look around the venue. “We’re very excited about the AEC,” said Mark, Managing Partner of Tryon Equestrian Partners. “It’s a big part of everyone’s schedule for the year and we want to make sure everyone walks away with a good experience.”

We began at the Derby Field, which includes a bank and water complex. The Derby Field will be incorporated on course for all levels, but Mark insisted that the lower levels would not be confined to this area. “The Beginner Novice and Novice courses will include the Derby Field and (sand) arenas, but they will do a much more typical cross country course, go outside the arenas and use the various elevations,” Mark said.

The Pony Club Championship courses, Mark said, were deliberately designed in collaboration with Pony Club management as a self contained course. As a result, the biggest uncertainty was that the rest of the course was not ready for AEC.

I spoke with course designer Captain Mark Phillips this morning and he confirmed that all levels will run through the Derby Field as well as out in the country. He also said that the Beginner Novice and Novice ran quite well at Pony Club Championships but that the confined space was less than ideal for Preliminary.

At AEC, Captain Mark Phillips said the Beginner Novice will follow the same track as Novice and Training, but the amount of jumping efforts placed out in the country will vary based on the width of the track and maximum required lengths of course for each level.

Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The view of “The Glades” from a spectator’s walking path. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Of course for eventers, running and jumping on good footing is of the utmost importance and TIEC has famously developed its footing on cross country by stacking synthetic materials, fiber, felt and a soil mix.

Eventer Eric Dierks is based down the road from TIEC and has participated in several of the dressage and jumper shows there. With a number of his event horses aimed at AEC, he was pleased to be invited to test ride the track himself.

Stepping out on the track at TIEC, Eric said he expected the manufactured footing to be spongy, but that wasn’t the case. His gallop began tentatively and as he got more confident in the footing under his horse’s hooves, he kicked it up several notches, testing the inside turns and galloping up to 600 meters per minute in some places.

Eric reported to EN that the footing was firm but not hard and although the grass is short, it is thick and absorbs the horse’s foot falls without digging up the base. Considering the amount of rain we’ve had in the area this past week, he was pleased also that his horse did not slip on slick ground.

“The footing holds. It’s safe and you can gallop strong on it without feeling like you’re going to get (suspensory injuries) on soft footing and concussion on hard footing,” Eric said. “If that’s the representation that is going to be on the course, I have full faith that the AEC is going to run really quite well.”

Check out this drone video of Eric and Magical Monte on course at TIEC:

Mark Bellissimo has become known for his ability to create an inclusive spectator experience at his events, and the AEC will be no different. High above the cross country track, construction crews are hard at work building viewing areas for spectators.

Mark explained that there will be four to five hospitality tents set up around the course that will be open to the public. These tents will be connected by walking paths so that spectators can walk the length of the course and look down on the galloping horses and riders. “We want to make the sport more accessible and interesting,” Mark said.

And yet, I see this feature as a clever mode of safety. It’s always a heartstopping moment at any horse trials when a spectator ducks under a rope in the path of a horse or crosses the track without listening for hoofbeats. Designated viewing areas and walking paths will keep the spectators safely out of the way and allow the riders to really focus on the course in front of them.

Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

There is work yet to be done. Barriers and fencing are under construction around the course, and the edges of the track where grass meets dirt will need to be cleaned up. Construction is ongoing on either side of the water complex and the location of the warm-up and start box has yet to be decided based on feedback from the Pony Club Championships.

Additional parking and a second entrance to the resort are in the process of being built. Plans for expanding the venue are on the table, too, like increasing the size of the Derby Field and incorporating the nearby, recently purchased golf course.

As they say, world-class international equestrian resorts aren’t built in a day, but Mark Bellissimo somehow manages to get it done fairly quickly. I think we’re in for a real treat at the 2016 AEC, but 2017 will be when we really see this place bloom.

Rio Olympics Individual Show Jumping Live Updates

By on Aug 9, 2016 12:48 pm -
Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW. Photo by Jenni Autry. Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The team show jumping final this morning had us on the edge of our seats as the standings shifted with every fallen rail. Ultimately, France came out on top with their second ever Olympic team gold in eventing, Germany won silver and Australia took bronze. New Zealand finished fourth just over two rails away from the gold medal score. Relive the action on our live updates post here.

The top 25 return for a second round to determine individual placings. Their scores from the team cycle carry over to the individual final, which starts at 1:00 p.m. EST. Defending Olympic Champions Michael Jung and Sam FBW are now in the gold medal position individually on a 40.9, having jumped a masterful double clear during the first round. Breathing down their necks on a 42.0 are France’s Astier Nicolas and Piaf de B’Neville, who also jumped clear in the first round.

Christopher Burton and Santano II, the leaders after cross country, added two rails to their total which put them third on a 45.6. Our very own Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice jumped clear with one time penalty and are knocking on the door in fourth on 47.8. Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery are seventh after the first round on 48.9.

The course, designed by Brazil’s Guilherme Jorge, is a bit different from the qualifying round with some new fences to tackle and an optimum time of 63 seconds. Click here for the complete individual results after the qualifying round and here for the order of go for the final round.

#Rio2016: Website, Schedule, Individual Scores, Team Scores, EN’s Ultimate Guide to Rio, How to Watch Live, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

2:29 p.m. EST: Click here for final results. Stay tuned for a full report on the individual final. Meanwhile, grab a tissue and love this moment:

2:04 p.m. EST: John Kyle: “There are very few mountains left for the World #1 to conquer.”

Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW. Photo by Jenni Autry.

2:03 p.m. EST: Here are the individual final results for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. The indomitable Michael Jung (GER) and Sam FBW wins gold, Astier Nicolas and Piaf de B’Neville earn silver for France. The bronze medal goes to America’s own Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice, the first Americans to earn an individual medal since Gina Miles and McKinlaigh’s silver medal performance at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing and Phillip’s first individual medal in six Olympic appearances.

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1:58 p.m. EST: Michael keeps making history. He and Sam are the only horse and rider combination to finish on their dressage score in the 2016 Rio Olympics, he won the Rolex Grand Slam and the Olympics in the same year, and is the third eventer ever to win consecutive Olympic titles and only the second to do it on the same horse.

1:57 p.m. EST: He’s done it! Michael Jung and Sam FBW jump double clear to win GOLD!

1:54 p.m. EST: Four jumping penalties and two time for Astier Nicolas and Peaf de B’Neville, guaranteeing an individual silver for France, who won the team gold earlier today. Now, here we go. It’s Michael Jung and Sam FBW. Can they make it back-to-back Olympic gold?

1:53 p.m. EST: Astier Nicolas and Piaf de B’Neville get it all wrong at the big gray oxer. They take the fence with them and can afford only one more to stay in silver.

1:52 p.m. EST: Chris and Santano have 8 penalties. That drops him off the podium and GUARANTEES PHILLIP DUTTON BRONZE AT LEAST.

1:51 p.m. EST: Christopher Burton (AUS) and Santano II work for it through the triple. He had two down this morning and a clear will be critical.

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice. Photo by Jenni Autry.

1:49 p.m. EST: One rail down for Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice. That’s a final score of 51.8. They hold on to fourth place but widens the gap to the podium. But let’s say it again – Phillip can finish no worse than fourth!

1:48 p.m. EST: Phillip Dutton is in the ring with Mighty Nice. He needs another clear to give him a good chance at a medal.

1:47 p.m. EST: Clarke Johnston (NZL) and Balmoral Sensation have two down, uncharacteristic for this good show jumping horse, but they only drop down one placing, moving Sam Griffiths into the top five!

1:46 p.m. EST: We’re into the top five now.

1:45 p.m. EST: Australia’s Sam Griffiths is over the moon! He and his Badminton winner Paulank Brockagh just produced their second double clear of the day and guaranteed themselves a top 6 finish at the Olympics.

1:43 p.m. EST: Boyd and “Red” had two rails this morning as a result of the horse being a bit tired and he’s added another 12 penalties here in the second round. That does move them well down the leaderboard but really a great performance for this relatively new partnership. This does guarantee a top ten finish for Canada’s Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master.

Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master. Photo by Jenni Autry.

1:42 p.m. EST: Here we go with Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery for the United States!

1:40 p.m. EST: An unlucky block off the blue wall for four penalties and a final score score of 63.6 and a top ten finish for China’s Alex Hua Tian and Don Geniro.

1:39 p.m. EST: Eight total penalty points in the individual round for Mathieu which drops him an unfortunate seven places. He’s still thrilled and smiles broadly at his fans.

1:38 p.m. EST: Mathieu Lemoine and Bart L dropped 2 rails in the first round and had France fighting for the finish. He needs a clear round to stay in the top ten, but he’s just dropped a rail at the new big gray oxer. Jonty Evans moves into the top ten for his first Olympics.

1:36 p.m. EST: Four faults and 65.8 final score for Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master. That moves Mark Todd up a place to the top 10.

1:35 p.m. EST: Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master was double clear in the first round and have had a cracking competition all around. She’s Canada’s hope for a top ten individual finish.

1:34 p.m. EST: Redemption! Mark and Leonidas are double clear to finish on 62 penalties and will finish no worse than 11th.

1:33 p.m. EST: Mark Todd and Leonidas II had a heartbreaking four rails down for 16 added penalties in the first round which dashed New Zealand’s hopes for a team medal. We’re hoping it goes better for him this go around.

1:31 p.m. EST: Carlos has three down again for a 75.3 final score. That drops them sixth places.

1:30 p.m. EST: Carlos Parro (BRA) and Summon Up the Blood had three down in the first round and sit just outside the top ten before the individual final.

1:29 p.m. EST: Jonty Evans just produced his second double clear round today for Ireland with Cooley Rorkes Drift. They finish on 64.6 and he is absolutely delighted!

1:27 p.m. EST: Thibaut Vallette for France with Qing Du Briot were double clear in the first round and had one down this time for a final score of 69.4. Sandra and WFP both move up a place.

1:24 p.m. EST: Ingrid Klimke (GER) and Hale-Bob OLD were clear in the first round but they picked up four penalties here in the individual final. They finish on a 69.5. That will drop them two places and moves Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Luovo into 15th.

1:22 p.m. EST: Jonelle Price (NZL) and Faerie Dianimo had two rails in the first round and the second. They finish on 73.5.

1:20 p.m. EST: Indeed they can! 66.4 final score and a finish of 17th or better.

1:19 p.m. EST: Alright, Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Louvo for Germany, they were clear this morning, can they do it again?

1:17 p.m. EST: William Fox-Pitt and the stallion Chilli Morning produce their second clear round today. They’ve had a perfect show jumping tour at the Rio Olympics. They will finish 18th at least on a final score of 67.4.

1:16 p.m. EST: 76.4 for Merel Blom and Rumour Has It with two rails down for the Netherlands.

1:13 p.m. EST: Japan’s Yoshiaki Oiwa and The Duke of Cavan had one rail in the first round and one more in this one for a final score of of 73.0. He’s guaranteed a finish in the top 20.

1:11 p.m. EST: Two rails down for Stuart Tinney and Pluto Mio from Australia. They have a final score of 84.6.

1:09 p.m. EST: Two rails for Brazil’s Marcio Jorge Carvalho and Lissy Mac Wayer for a final score of 88.0.

1:07 p.m. EST: Tim and Bayro are clear this go around and the time looks to be easier to achieve. Tim finishes on 82.0.

1:06 p.m. EST: Tim Lips (NED) and Bayro are on course. They had two down in the first round.

1:05 p.m. EST: One down in the triple for Italy’s Pietro Roman and Barraduff. They finish on 86.2.

1:03 p.m. EST: Joris makes the time and has just one rail down. He finishes his fourth Olympics on 87.9.

1:01 p.m. EST: Here we go! First of 25 riders in the individual final is Joris Vanspringel and Lully Des Aulnes of Beldium. They come into the ring on a 83.9. The course is a bit different and the time allowed is 63 seconds.