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Leslie Threlkeld

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Photo Gallery: Rolex Dressage Begins

By on Apr 28, 2016 5:01 pm -
Lynn Symansky and Donner. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld. Lynn Symansky and Donner. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

We are accustomed to the second day of dressage at Rolex Kentucky being full of heavy hitters–and this year is no exception. This year, however, the first day’s schedule treated an enthusiastic audience to numerous excellent performances that set the stage for an exciting final day on the flat tomorrow.

Will Faudree and Hans Dampf started us off at 8:00 a.m. with the test ride, followed by a total of 35 horses and riders completing the first phase of the 2016 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive were the first competitors in the ring, setting the bar with a 43.1 that saw them sitting third at the end of the day. Current leaders Michael Jung and fisherRocana FST were poetry in motion and took a commanding lead with a 34.4, a five point improvement over their score from last year. Liz Halliday-Sharp and Fernhill By Night also bettered their 2015 score by five points, which put them second after the first day of dressage.

The clouds rolled in and out, but the rain held off literally until the last rider, Ryan Wood with Fernhill Classic, gave their final salute and exited the arena.

Click here for a look at the leaderboard after day one, here for top quotes from the press conference and catch up on all of EN’s coverage at this link.

Shannon Brinkman’s Wednesday Sights and Sounds from Rolex Kentucky

By on Apr 27, 2016 7:56 pm -
Alexandra Knowles and Sound Prospect. Photo by Shannon Brinkman. Alexandra Knowles and Sound Prospect. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

We have a very special Sights and Sounds post today with images from the lovely Shannon Brinkman. We’re so excited to have her working with the EN team all week! Enjoy these candid moments she captured during today’s horse inspection and around the Kentucky Horse Park. Click here to read the full report jog report and here to catch up with all of EN’s Rolex coverage.

Be sure to find Shannon K Brinkman Photography on Facebook.

Rolex First Horse Inspection Photo Gallery

By on Apr 27, 2016 5:41 pm -
Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld. Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The horses and riders braved the rain for today’s first horse inspection at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Here’s a full photo gallery of the 72 combinations that will move on to dressage. If you missed the full report on what went down at the jog, click here to get caught up. Then click here to read all of EN’s Rolex coverage so far.

Rolex Kentucky: They Have Arrived

By on Apr 25, 2016 6:45 pm -

This week, all roads lead to the Kentucky Horse Park.

How we’re all feeling at this point: Meg Kep gets it.

The EN crew will be arriving in full force on Tuesday. Get ready for a wild week!

The calm before the press storm. #travelswithamy @rk3de_official

A photo posted by Amy Dragoo (@dragoophoto) on

Monday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Apr 25, 2016 12:14 am -
This is what it's all about! This is what it's all about!

This is Sydney Bolton and her new partner, a Thoroughbred gelding called Broomer, on their happy way to a fourth place finish in their second horse trials together this weekend at Sporting Days. We love seeing horses and riders having the time of their life doing what they most love. Thanks to Lynda Clary-Burke for sending us this photo!

U.S. Weekend Action:

Fair Hill International CIC & H.T. [Live Scores]

Longleaf Pine H.T. [Live Scores]

CHC International CIC & H.T. [Live Scores]

Sporting Days Farm H.T. [Website]

River Glen Spring H.T. [Live Scores]

Holly Hill Spring H.T. [Live Scores]

Monday News and Notes:

Enter to Win the Tredstep Pay It Forward Challenge: Eventers are constantly inspiring each other and giving their fellow riders a helping hand. Whether it’s offering a leg up, cheering as a friend leaves the start box, or giving a word of encouragement after a bad day, we all have each others’ shoulders to lean on in this sport. Nominate someone who has inspired or helped you by posting a picture of the person on Instagram using the hashtag #TredstepPayItForward. Be sure to tell us why they inspire you! Entries close on Friday. Both the winning nominee and their nominator will receive a Tredstep Solo Pro Coat and Interchangeable Collar. [Click here for more details]

What’s the big deal about Rolex? It’s A HUGE DEAL. We know this, but try explaining it to a non-horsey person. Four-star event rider Elisa Wallace’s husband Timothy Harfield, founder of HorseHubby.com, has tried to describe the significance of this event in a variety of ways. [What’s the Big Deal About Rolex Anyway?]

Great Britain stood on the top podium at the FEI Eventing Nations Cup qualifier at Ballindenisk this weekend. The Irish team finished with a three-person team as runners-up on their home turf, while France stood third two points behind Ireland. Individually, Britain’s Pippa Funnell led from start to finish with Mirage D’Elle. [Funnell and Britain win, Ireland Second at Ballindenisk]

The Tryon International Equestrian Center, which will host the 2016 USEA American Eventing Championships in September, is a popular hunter/jumper venue in North Carolina. TIEC has upped the ante for its Summer Series, which will increase competition opportunities for hunter and jumper competitors planning to attend the four week series. [Tryon 2016 Summer Series Announces Competition Upgrades]

Retired Racehorse Project is throwing a hoedown after Rolex cross country, and you’ll want to be there. Hagyard is hosting the hoedown for the benefit of the RRP, where a $50 admission (or $35 for RRP members) will get you an open bar and live music from the Steve Norman & Shades of Grass band. Starting at 6 pm just a few short miles from the Horse Park, the Hoedown promises to provide a full-evening’s worth of entertainment alongside the likes of Phillip Dutton, Rosie Napravnik, Chris McCarron and Graham Motion. [Hoedown for Hagyard] [RRP Rolex Activities]

EN is delighted to host an online auction on behalf of Carolina International for a beautiful custom jump, with proceeds benefitting Hearts 4 Heroes United States. H4HUS provides equine-assisted and canine-assisted therapy to U.S. veterans and active duty military suffering from physical and psychological impairments. [Auction]

Does your horse have an inspiring story about coming back from a serious injury or illness? OCD Pellets wants to hear all about it! Send in your rehab to [email protected]for a chance to win an OCD prize pack (2-month supply of OCD Pellets, 1-month supply of COS Canine, and an OCD Pellets hat and T-shirt). Entries close Monday, May 2, 2016, and the story that receives the most views on EN will win. [Contest Details]

Jessica Phoenix and Bentley’s Best Win the Adequan USEA Gold Cup CIC3* at CHC International

By on Apr 24, 2016 4:30 pm -
Jessica Phoenix and Bentley's Best. Photo by Kasey Mueller/Rare Air Photography. Jessica Phoenix and Bentley's Best. Photo by Kasey Mueller/Rare Air Photography.

The CHC International at Chattahoochee Hills in Fairburn, Georgia hosted Intermediate and Advanced horse trials as well as a CIC*, CIC2*, CIC3* and Advanced Combined Test this weekend.

Jessica Phoenix and Don Good’s Bentleys Best topped the small but mighty Adequan USEA Gold Cup CIC3* division, scoring a 45.4 in dressage and adding one rail and time penalties across country to finish on 66.6. April Simmonds and Faydon Enterpirses Quebec NZPH were second on a 67.8. Werner Geven and Carden Burdett’s Vilas County finished third.

Katherine Coleman and her own Wizard of Aus were the winners of the CIC2*, finishing on a 56.2 to move up from equal fifth after dressage. Lexi Scovil and Charleston VI were second on 61.3, and Forrest el-Effendi and Winter Colony, owned by Evie Dutton and Jodi Dady, posted the only double clear cross country round to vault up from eighth to finish third.

Clayton Fredericks dominated the CIC*, coming first and second with FE Lifstyle and FE Vindus respectively. Both horses picked up penalties in show jumping but jumped double clear across the country to finish on a 46.7 and 54.8.

Dana Cooke and the striking Wurttemburg mare FE Mississippi, owned by Kingfisher Park, sat in third throughout, finishing with a rail and just 0.4 time penalties on cross country to stay ahead of Jade Anderson and Jessica Brown’s Fernhill Premier, who finished on her dressage score of 57.7.

Dana took command of Open Intermediate, placing first with Kingfisher Park’s FE Ophelia on a 42.7 and moving from sixth after dressage to finish second on 52.5 on Hugh Wrigley’s Forever Young. Both horses jump clear in show jumping and added no jumping penalties across the country. However both horses crossed the finish line at 6:12, resulting in 9.2 time penalties each.

An Advanced Combined Test was offered to benefit those horse and rider combinations traveling to the Kentucky Horse Park this week. Jessica Phoenix and Don Good’s Pavarotti were first out of five entries, finishing on a dressage score of 44.7. Lauren Kieffer and Team Rebecca, LLC’s Veronica dropped a rail in show jumping to finish on 46.8 for second.

“Thank you Chatt Hills for hosting a Combined Test before Kentucky,” wrote Lauren Kieffer on Facebook. “The event was beautiful and the work that’s been done improving the footing is fantastic. I wish I had brought horses to run cross country because the ground was perfect!”

The Advanced division had a tricky time of things on cross country, with four of the five entries being eliminated or retiring on course. Abby Hamblin and her OTTB Silver Flash were the only pair to complete.

Click here for full results and check out some great interviews with the winners on the USEA website.

Rolex Entry Update: Seven More Horses Withdrawn [Updated 4/25]

By on Apr 24, 2016 2:30 pm -
Will Coleman and Obos O'Reilly. Photo courtesy of Rare Air Photography. Will Coleman and Obos O'Reilly. Photo courtesy of Rare Air Photography.

We’re three days out from the 2016 Rolex Kentucky first horse inspection, and there have been seven additional withdrawals since our last announcement, dropping the entry total to 77.

OBOS O’Reilly, owned by the Four Star Eventing Group and ridden by Will Coleman, has been withdrawn due to injury. The 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding finished sixth at Rolex last year in the gelding’s first four-star attempt and earned the Land Rover Best Ride of the Day.

Will Coleman Equestrian made released the following statement this afternoon: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce OBOS O’Reilly will not be contesting this year’s Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event due to an injury sustained at his last competition. We had the highest of hopes for Oboe this year and we are gutted to say they will not be fulfilled.

“Thank you as always to our wonderful team of vets, farriers and support staff for their continued guidance and to the incredible members of the Four Star Eventing Group who have humbled us with their compassion and understanding. After a successful year in 2015, Oboe has earned this bit of rest and we look forward to having him back out again soon!”

Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Catchascatchcan. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Catchascatchcan. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Sara Kozumplik Murphy has withdrawn both Edith Rameika’s 9-year-old German Warmblood gelding, Catchascatchcan, as well as Fly Me Courageous, an 11-year-old Thoroughbred gelding owned by Edith and Sean Rameika.

It was discovered during a final jog before departing for Kentucky that Fly Me Courageous has an injury. “I feel very lucky to have caught if before we ran cross country next Saturday, at which point it would have been very bad indeed,” Sara said yesterday.

“Since Catch is only 9, and has lost a bit of confidence this season, I had already decided after The Fork that I would only do the the dressage phase at Kentucky. He is sound and happy, and will be just fine, but I feel his future is more important than one horse show.”

Today Sara thanked her friends and fans for their kind words. “Feeling pretty darn lucky to have the support system I do and so grateful that my horses have an owner who never hesitates to do the right thing by them. Every time. Without a moment’s hesitation.”

Allie Sacksen and Sparrow's Nio. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Allie Sacksen and Sparrow’s Nio. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Sparrow’s Nio has been withdrawn after his owner and rider Allie Sacksen noticed the gelding take awkward steps in the field, and a subsequent vet visit revealed the 13-year-old Connemara/Thoroughbred has a soft tissue injury.

“Nio has taken me so far in my career and I care too much for him to even consider risking his lifelong health. He will recover and I look forward to many more trips with him in the future,” Allie said in a statement this afternoon. “I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped me and supported me in this continuous journey. Nio and I have the most loyal and awesome fans in the eventing world and I am so grateful for each and every one of you!”

Eliza Farren has withdrawn her longtime partner Bantry Bay’s Dublin, a 13-year-old Connemara/Thoroughbred she has produced from age 2, from what would have been their first four-star attempt. “This has been a VERY tough decision for me,” Eliza said. “As I always say things happen for a reason. Thank you to everyone that has supported us in our journey, we couldn’t have done it without you!”

Eliza Farren and Bantry Bay's Dublin. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Eliza Farren and Bantry Bay’s Dublin. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Anna Collier has withdrawn her 12-year-old Thoroughbred gelding Gleaming Road. The pair finished in 32nd place at their first Rolex appearance in 2015.

“We were very excited to draw #28 for both Rolex and Badminton and had hoped to clear the Badminton waitlist. In the midst of this, Gleam had a great final prep run at Twin in California but came back with a bit of a bug,” Anna said. “Unfortunately, it will be too soon to ship and run him at a big event.”

Anna confirmed to EN that she will now aim Gleaming Road for Burghley in the fall.

Maddy Mazzola and Mojito also have withdrawn from what would have been the 15-year-old Argentinian Sport Horse gelding’s third trip to Rolex and 21-year-old Maddy’s four-star debut.

Canada’s Holly Jacks also announced that More Inspiration, her 11-year-old Thoroughbred gelding, has been withdrawn from Rolex and will instead contest the CCI3* at Jersey Fresh in May. This would have been this pair’s debut at the four-star level.

Canada’s Waylon Roberts announced on April 25 that he has opted to withdraw Kelecyn Cognac from the competition. Kelecyn Cognac is a 13-year-old Thoroughbred gelding owned by Anthony Connolly and L. Skye Levely. This would have been the gelding’s first four-star attempt.

“Thanks to all who have been supporting me and this class horse,” Waylon said. “My spirit is lifted during this set back knowing that we will be fighting fit very soon.”

Click here to see the entry list for Rolex. Fifteen horses have now been withdrawn since the draw order was released: Wesko, Ballylaffin Bracken, Catalina, High Times, The Dark Mark, Sir Donovan, Catchascatchcan, Fly Me Courageous, Mojito, Bantry Bays Dublin, OBOS O’Reilly, Gleaming Road, Sparrow’s Nio, More Inspiration and Kelecyn Cognac.

Mai Baum Will Not Bid for the Rio Olympics

By on Apr 24, 2016 10:14 am -
Tamie Smith and Mai Baum at Fair Hill in 2016. Photo by Jenni Autry. Tamie Smith and Mai Baum at Fair Hill in 2016. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Mai Baum’s owners Alex and Ellen Ahearn and Eric Markell along with rider Tamie Smith announced this morning that the 10-year-old German Sport Horse has been removed from consideration for the 2016 Rio Olympics in order to give an injury more time to heal.

“Mai Baum strained his tendon after Fair Hill International last season,” Tamie said. “While he has responded extremely well to treatment and is progressing nicely in his rehabilitation, the healing process needs time. After careful consideration and input from David O’Connor, as well as Dr. Susan Johns and Dr. Emily Sandler, we have made the decision that we will not rush Mai Baum back to make a bid for the 2016 Olympics.”

The plan had been for “Lexus,” winner of the 2015 Dutta Corp Fair Hill International CCI3*, 2015 USEA Horse of the Year and 2015 EN Horse and Rider of the Year, to forego a spring CCI and instead aim towards the CICO3* at Great Meadow in July. However, the team has decided not to enter Lexus in any events this year to ensure the horse makes a full recovery.

“Obviously, this was a difficult decision, especially because we all hoped Tamie and Mai Baum might have been selected to join the United States Eventing Team at the Olympic games in Rio,” his owners said. “Always wanting the best for our horse, we all agreed that we needed to focus on Mai Baum’s long-term career and health, which involves giving him ample time to properly heal.”

Mai Baum will likely compete in dressage and show jumping competitions this year and make his return to eventing in 2017.

Will Faudree and Pfun Take the Cake at Fair Hill CIC3*

By on Apr 24, 2016 9:00 am -
Will Faudree and Pfun at The Fork 2016. Photo by Jenni Autry. Will Faudree and Pfun at The Fork 2016. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Fair Hill kicked off its eventing season this weekend with their spring CIC and Horse Trials. Will Faudree and Pfun, a 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Jennifer Mosing and Sterling Silver Stables, topped the CIC3* division, moving up from eighth place out of 18 after dressage. They posted one of only three double clear show jumping rounds to move into third. Significant time penalties were common throughout the class as the rain poured down, but Will and Pfun had the fastest round with 5.6 penalties to secure the win.

Will also finished fourth with Caeleste, a 9-year-old German Sport Horse mare making her first CIC3* appearance. Also owned by Jennifer Mosing and Sterling Silver Stables, Caeleste placed sixth after dressage with a 51.9, followed by a clear show jumping round with two time penalties to move into fourth, a position they maintained after incurring time penalties on cross country.

Ryan Wood and Summit Sporthorses, Ltd.’s 10-year-old Oldenburg gelding Powell were second after dressage on a 47.7. They moved into first despite a rail in show jumping, but 10.8 time penalties resulted in a second place finish overall. Colleen Loach and Peter Barry’s 12-year-old Selle Francais Qorry Blue D’Argouges added one rail and 13.6 time penalties to their dressage score of 51.1 to finish third.

Jan Byyny and her and Richard and Jo Ellen Byyny’s beautiful grey mare Urrem won the CIC2*. The 8-year-old Selle Francais added 6.8 time penalties on cross country – the fastest round in the class – to move up from fifth to finish on a 56.0.

Jan Byyny and Urrem at Carolina International 2016. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Jan Byyny and Urrem at Carolina International 2016. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Peter Barry and Kalle 86, his own 10-year-old Hanoverian gelding, were second after the first two phases, and they held their position after a clear cross country with 11.2 time penalties. Philippa Humphreys and her and Peter Humphrey’s 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse Master Eli round out the top three with a 58.9, adding 12.8 cross country time penalties to their dressage score of 46.1 and their first CIC2* completion as a pair.

Continuing with a cracking weekend, Jan Byyny won the CIC* riding Duke of Diamond, an 8-year-old Oldenburg gelding owned by Jane Musselman. They led the 35-horse division from start to finish, adding only four penalties from a rail in show jumping and crossing the finish in the final phase exactly on the optimum time.

Fresh off a one-star win at Carolina International, 17-year-old Katie Lichten and Harold Lichten’s 10-year-old Hanoverian gelding RF Luminati moved up from sixth to finish second on their dressage score of 49.9. Jenny Caras and her 7-year-old Irish Sport Horse Fernhill Full Throttle were seventh on a 49.6 following dressage. A double clear show jump round moved them into fourth place, and they gained another placing with a perfect round across country.

David Taylor and Serendipity had a fall at the 8th fence on cross country resulting in Mandatory Retirement. Horse and rider are reportedly sore but otherwise okay.

In the Advanced division, Ryan Wood and Woodstock Bennett, a 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by Ryan and Curran Simpson, won with 8.8 time penalties added to their initial score of 35.3 to move up from third. Matthew Brown and Blossom Creek Foundation’s Talking Point BCF led after dressage on a 31.6 in the 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse’s first Advanced attempt. A rail and 18.4 time penalties dropped them back to second place. Madeline Backus and her own 15-year-old Anglo-Trakehner mare P.S. Arianna finished third, adding a rail and 17.6 time penalties to their dressage score of 40.3.

Ryan Wood and Woodstock Bennett at Carolina International 2016. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Ryan Wood and Woodstock Bennett at Carolina International 2016. Photo by Jenni Autry.

In the Intermediate-A division, Jennie Brannigan led from the start with her and Elsbeth Battel’s 8-year-old Holsteiner/Thoroughbred mare. After winning the dressage on 31.0, Jennie made plans to take it slow on cross country. They incurred 11.2 time penalties, but it wasn’t enough to drop them out of the top spot.

Ariel Grald and Anne Elridge’s Leamore Master Plan added 15.6 time penalties on cross country and moved up from third after dressage to finish second on 48.7. Waylon Roberts kicked on with West River, and the Hanoverian mare owned by Caileigh Levely-Connolly vaulted from 14th after dressage to finish third overall, adding 4.4 time penalties across the country.

Molly Kinnamon and her own American Warmblood The Diesel Boy won Intermediate-B, jumping clear in show jumping and adding 10.4 time penalties to finish on 40.8. In second was Erin Sylvester and Marnie Kelly’s Campground, moving all the way up from 13th after dressage to second with two fast, clear rounds. Kevin Keane and his own Fernhill Flutter were leading after the first phase on a 27.7. One rail dropped them to third, but they held that position despite 11.6 cross country time penalties.

The Fair Hill Preliminary winners are Courtney Cooper and Neal Camen’s R Star, leading from start to finish on a remarkable 20.0 in division A, Haley Rosenberg and Sandra Holden’s Evil Munchkin, finishing on 30.4 in division B, and Dom Schramm and Bolytair, owned by Janet, Kurt and and Connor Giesselman, adding nothing to their dressage score of 22 to top division C.

Several Rolex-bound combinations got in last minute practice in a four-star Combined Test. Matthew Brown and Blossom Creek Foundation’s Super Socks BCF scored a 53.3 and added one rail in show jumping to top the division on 57.3. Lisa Marie Fergusson and her own Honor Me were second, adding no show jumping penalties to their dressage score of 59.3. Lillian Heard and her own LCC Barnaby added on 1 time penalty to their dressage of 58.5 for third.

The Training divisions wrap up the competition today. Click here for final results and live scores.

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Buck Davidson and Kyle Carter Preview Rolex Horses and Riders

By on Apr 23, 2016 5:00 pm -

Buck Davidson and Kyle Carter are previewing Rolex on The OK Show About Horses with Buck and Kyle. They’ve published the first three of eight episodes discussing each horse and rider combination on the entry list for this year. Allotting one minute to each pair, they offer professional insight and behind the scenes knowledge to make their predictions.

This is a really interesting preview to what we may expect at the big event next week. Each episode is 15 minutes or more, so put your headphones on and listen in while doing barn chores or going on a hack this weekend.

Hitting the Road to Rolex

By on Apr 23, 2016 3:00 pm -

All this week riders have been doing their final gallops and jump schools and getting in last minute lessons as they put the finishing touches on their Rolex Kentucky preparations. Some have already hit the road to the Bluegrass State, and over the next few days the barns will fill up with the country’s top horses and riders ready to take on #RK3DE2016.

Gearing up for the BIG event next week! #gotthejumpsgoingUP #onatuesday #GoAlGo #roadtorolex #teamBDJ

A video posted by Lainey Ashker (@laineyea) on

Then we have Libby Head and Sir Rockstar on their way to England to contest the Badminton CCI4* for the first time along with Libby’s friend and groom Devon Brown, who is skipping her graduation to go to Badminton. Seems like a no-brainer to me!

The excitement is building! Good luck everyone and keep it locked on EN for all the four-star coverage you can handle.

8 Things You Must Do at Rolex 2016

By on Apr 23, 2016 1:01 pm -

Rolex week is nearly upon us, and we know you’ve been madly packing and planning for a great trip to the Horse Capital of the World. The Kentucky Horse Park has so much to offer during Rolex, so we’ve rounded up a list of must-dos at #RK3DE 2016.

Celebrate Thoroughbreds at the Hagyard Hoedown: The Retired Racehorse Project is hosting the Hoedown at Hagyard, presented by Boehringer Ingelheim, on Saturday, April 30 in the sport horse covered arena at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute from 6 p.m. until the music stops. Steve Norman’s Shades of Grass Band will provide the entertainment with catering by central Kentucky’s award-winning Red State Barbecue, plus there is an open bar around which you can rub elbows with a number of Thoroughbred celebrities. Tickets are $50 or $35 for RRP members. All proceeds will benefit the Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium. Click here for more info and to purchase tickets.

Run for Charity: The second annual RK-5K Twilight Race will take place on Friday, April 29 at 6:30 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Rolex Kentucky’s official charity, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. This year’s run features chip timing, commemorative performance T-shirts, DJ and a new scenic course looping through the Kentucky Horse Park. Not a runner? Go for the 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk that begins five minutes after the 5k. For race updates and information, visit the RK-5K Facebook page. Click here to register for the race or make a donation.

Patrick the mini horse is Rolex bound! Photo courtesy of Jessica Schaaf.

Patrick the mini horse is Rolex bound! Photo courtesy of Jessica Schaaf.

Watch breed and discipline demonstrations: Horses of all shapes and sizes come to the Horse Park to participate in demonstrations and competitions besides the Three-Day Event. Spend some time nearby the Walnut Ring and you’ll be sure to learn something new about an unfamiliar breed and walk away with renewed respect for the versatility of the horse.

We’ve recently profiled Patrick the mini horse and Dungarvan Feather’s Gypsy Cobs who will be doing demonstrations at Rolex this year. Elisa Wallace, who is riding Simply Priceless in the four-star, will also be returning to perform in the Walnut Ring with her mustangs. You’ll also definitely want to catch part of the Prince Philip Cup Games. Click here for a full schedule.

Maker’s Mark Auction, Reception and Tastings: A limited number of Maker’s Mark Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event commemorative bottles featuring the 2015 event winner, Michael Jung riding Fischerrocana FST, will be auctioned off with all proceeds going to Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. The auction and reception will take place Thursday, April 28 at 7 p.m. at The Livery, a Lexington landmark. Tickets are $200 per individual or $300 per couple. Tickets will not be available at the door. Download the order form here.

If you can’t make it to the reception, you can still get a taste of smooth Kentucky bourbon at scheduled tastings at the Horse Park. For $15, a Maker’s Mark Distillery Bourbon Specialist will guide you through a tasting of three select Maker’s Mark bourbons. Of course, you must be 21 to enjoy. There are four tastings per day from Thursday through Sunday. Click here for available times and information on how to reserve your spot!

Jim Wofford and Chinch share a moment. Photo via EN's Instagram.

Jim Wofford and Chinch share a moment. Photo via EN’s Instagram.

Walk the cross country course: There are always a number of opportunities to walk the cross country course with top riders and coaches.
The SmartPak course walk is always a big draw, and this year Boyd Martin and Allison Springer will lead the way. The exact date and time of the course walk will be determined after the ride times are posted, and everyone who pre-registers will receive an email with the final details as soon as they are available. The first 500 registrants to visit the SmartPak Booth the morning of the walk will receive a complimentary gift. Click here to register for the course walk.
Nupafeed is hosting a course walk with Tamie Smith and Hawley Bennett-Awad at the helm on Friday, April 29 at 5 p.m. Meet at Top Rail Tack in booth 100 in the vendor area before heading out to the course. Click here to join the event.
You definitely don’t want to miss Practical Horseman’s course walk with eventing legend and columnist Jim Wofford. Meet at the cross-country start box on Friday, April 29, approximately 30 minutes after the end of the last dressage test. Don’t worry if you’re late, just look for the massive moving wave of people and the guy with the megaphone.

Remember Roger Haller: There will be a special tribute to Roger Haller from 5:40-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 28 at the Head of the Lake. Roger was a tireless servant of the sport who passed away from cancer this March. His absence at this year’s Rolex will be felt my many.

See Hunter Hayes in concert at Rolex. Photo: CC.

See Hunter Hayes in concert at Rolex. Photo: CC.

Hunter Hayes Concert: Having the talented, dreamy country music superstar Hunter Hayes coming to play at concert at Rolex has been the talk of the town since the announcement. Don’t know who Hunter Hayes is? (Neither did I). A hip young eventer explains.
Hunter will perform in the Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park on Saturday, April 30 following cross country. Tickets are $35 for general admission, and a Taylor Harris Insurance Services VIP Access Package is available for $150, which includes a VIP Pit Pass at the front of stage with a full cash bar, VIP lounge with full cash bar and food, an invitation to the VIP After Party and memorabilia signed by Hunter. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. and the concert will begin at 6 p.m. Click here to purchase tickets (scroll down to select the Lexington show). A portion of the ticket sales will benefit the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and the USET Foundation.
Future EN Party People of America. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Future EN Party People of America. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Party EN style: Last but not least, stop by the EN “Insanity in the Middle” Rolex Tailgate Party, presented by Amerigo. This tailgate party is our favorite way to show our appreciation for our readers, who are truly the best in the land. So come on out on cross country day, April 30, to enjoy some snacks, adult beverages (for adults only), free EN swag — and the best Rolex tailgate party on course! We hope to see you there! Here’s everything you need to know.
What is your Rolex must-do? Let us and your friends know in the comments. Want more ideas? Check out our must-do lists from years past (2014, 2015) which include shopping strategies and the best ways to watch cross country.

Kelly Prather’s Tailored Program Produces Horses for the Future

By on Apr 23, 2016 9:00 am -
Kelly Prather and D.A. Duras at Millbrook 2015. Photo by Jenni Autry. Kelly Prather and D.A. Duras at Millbrook 2015. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kelly Prather has a passion for producing young horses, and her mounts routinely go on to succeed with new riders. Her program focuses on keeping horses engaged and happy in their work by piloting them towards the discipline for which they are most mentally and physically suited.

“I love producing young horses. It’s what I’ve always done,” Kelly said. “I love seeing the progress being made. I love riding at the top level myself, and I’ve always made my own horses.”

Born into a horse-enthusiast family, Kelly received a well-rounded education in multiple disciplines as a young rider. After high school she moved to Ireland to work with Carol Gee; Kelly was with Carol in the early days of the Fernhill empire. While there Kelly rode “anything and everything” and said that is when she “truly fell in love with riding.”

Kelly moved home to California from Ireland in 2003 and went to work for her coach Andrea Pfeiffer, staying on as assistant trainer for nine years.

While in Ireland, Kelly had met Ballinakill Glory, a then 3-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare that eventually took Kelly to her first four-star. “She was broke for two days when I saw her. She couldn’t steer so I hopped off and watched her trot around,” Kelly said. Andrea wanted to see where the horse could go, so she purchased the mare for Kelly to ride.

Kelly Prather and Ballinakill Glory at Rolex 2011. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Kelly Prather and Ballinakill Glory at Rolex 2011. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

“I brought her up through the levels and she was a great mare. She went around Kentucky twice, taught me a lot, took me around my first three-star and four-star. She was probably a little big to run around a four-star, conditioning wise, but she had all the jump in the world and a heart of gold. I owe a lot to her getting me to the level and giving me the hunger.”

Kelly credits Glory with laying the foundation for how she develops horses today, and their appearances at Rolex Kentucky helped Kelly secure a job with William Fox-Pitt in England during 2012. Upon returning home, she moved from her home state of California to develop her own business on the East Coast. Today, Kelly splits her time between Ocala, Florida and Unionville, Pennsylvania.

A Philosophy That Works

Kelly likes to keep her business small, with Kelly and her groom Sara Pettey attending to no more than 10 horses at a time so that each one receives individual attention. “I like to ride all of them every day so I have a relationship with each and every horse,” Kelly said. “That’s the side I love — seeing horses improve. Not just young horses but all of them.”

Kelly is often sent young horses to break in and bring along to identify the career that would best suit them. She doesn’t lock them in to eventing simply because that is her primary discipline but takes into account their physical and mental ability when choosing their career path.

“My biggest thing with them all is to keep them happy in their everyday work. They don’t get drilled on the same subject every day. That has a lot to do with how they progress and how much they want to learn. I to keep things switched up so they don’t get bored or sour. I think keeping their minds engaged and doing different things makes them willing to try and learn for you.”

Kelly and Truly Wiley at the March 2016 Poplar Place CIC3*. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Kelly and Truly Wiley at the March 2016 Poplar Place CIC3*. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Proven Results

From a financial standpoint, it works for Kelly to buy horses young and bring them up the levels. As their careers flourish, other riders take notice, as is evidenced by the recent sales of Blackfoot Mystery and D.A. Duras.

Kelly’s client Lisa Peecook found Blackfoot Mystery through the Thoroughbred Rehab Center, an accredited organization of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. She took him off the track as a 3-year-old, and Kelly rode him off and on over the years before taking the ride full time after returning from England.

“I fell in love with him back then and when I moved over to England to ride for William, (his owner) said she never wanted to run a four-star, and I’d be first in line if I he was going to go on to another rider. I always thought he had it all.”

Known as “Red,” Blackfoot Mystery moved East with Kelly in the summer of 2013. Red had experience at the one-star level with Lisa, and Kelly took him through to the CCI3* level, finishing fourth at Jersey Fresh last year.

Shortly after that, Boyd Martin put together a syndicate to buy the horse. The pair promptly went on to finish ninth at the Plantation Field CIC3* and sixth at the Dutta Corp Fair Hill CCI3*. They kicked off 2016 with a win at the Wellington Eventing Showcase, and Red is one of Boyd’s contenders to represent the U.S. at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Kelly Prather and Blackfoot Mystery at the 2014 Plantation Field CIC3*. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kelly Prather and Blackfoot Mystery at the 2014 Plantation Field CIC3*. Photo by Jenni Autry.

“It was an honor to (sell Red to Boyd) and it would have been silly to say no,” Kelly said. 
“It’s been really exciting watching him go and I would love to see him and Boyd go on to do well this year. He’s a horse I loved dearly and had for quite a while.”

EN closely followed the progress of Kelly and D.A. Duras, who was produced through the Preliminary level by owner Debbie Adams, as they prepared for the 2015 FEI World Breeding Eventing CCI2* Championships for 7-year-olds at Le Lion d’Angers, where they finished ninth. After Le Lion, Ms. Jacqueline Mars joined Debbie and Tony Adams as part-owners of the Dutch Warmblood gelding for Lauren Kieffer to take as far as he will go.

Looking Ahead

Kelly has several others coming up the ranks, including Truly Wiley, a Thoroughbred bred by Bruce Davidson that Kelly bought as a 2-year-old. Now 9, Wiley is aiming for his first CCI3* at Jersey Fresh this May.

“He runs around Advanced pretty easily and casually,” she said. “He hasn’t found it horribly difficult at this point. I could see him running a four-star for sure. That would be his longterm goal.”

Flagmount’s Nightcap, a 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding also bred by Bruce, has competed through the two-star level, but Kelly says she will likely focus him more on pure show jumping going forward, and he is currently for sale.

Kelly has several other young ones she’s bringing on and working out what discipline they will prefer.

Here at EN we love tracking the progression of a talented horse and rider, so we’re anxious to see success for Kelly and Wiley this season and look forward to meeting more of her talented youngsters in the years to come.

Sir Donovan Withdrawn from Rolex Due to Lung Infection

By on Apr 19, 2016 3:37 pm -
Philippa Humphreys and Sir Donovan in their final Rolex prep run at the Fork. Photo by Jenni Autry. Philippa Humphreys and Sir Donovan in their final Rolex prep run at the Fork. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Philippa Humphreys has withdrawn Sir Donovan from Rolex Kentucky after the 14-year-old Irish Sport Horse was diagnosed with a lung infection following a successful final prep run in the CIC3* at The Fork Horse Trials. She pulled “Donald” up about halfway around the cross country course as planned, but several days later they noticed he had become ill.

“I’m absolutely gutted to report on Tuesday Donald became sick,” Philippa said. “We have discovered he has a lung infection. Fortunately he was in very close proximity to Dr. Kevin Keane’s sports medicine practice, and they were able to attend to his emergency immediately. He remains in a stable condition under the wonderful care of Dr. Amy Johnson at New Bolton in Pennsylvania, where he is expected to make a full recovery.”

Philippa and “Donald” partnered in 2014, finishing in 23rd place at the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International CCI3* the same year. They completed the Pine Top CIC3* and Carolina International CIC3* this winter and were looking towards Philippa’s first four-star appearance at Rolex. Donald competed at Rolex three times in his career with former rider Katie Ruppel, finishing 15th in 2013.

“Donald’s health and well being will always be my number one priority,” Philippa said. “I have so much appreciation for Donald. He’s a horse of a lifetime.”

We’re sending well wishes to Donald as he recovers and hope to see the two of them compete in Kentucky in the future.

Click here to see the entry list for Rolex. Six horses have now been withdrawn since the draw order was released: Wesko, Ballylaffin Bracken, Catalina, High Times, The Dark Mark and Sir Donovan.

Monday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Apr 18, 2016 12:24 am -

Sports psychology extraordinaire and one of the most positive individuals I’ve ever known, Daniel Stewart, posted this on his Facebook page yesterday. “Yup. That’s what riding is all about,” he said. Having edited and shared many of his newsletters and even written an introduction for his book “Pressure Proof Your Riding,” I made every effort to channel Daniel’s inner coolness while competing my pony this weekend at FENCE horse trials. I failed to remember the many useful mantras and acronyms, but I managed to remember to breathe, and I just couldn’t help but smile and have fun!

U.S. Weekend Action:

Plantation Field April H.T. [Results]

Ocala 3-Day Festival CCI & H.T. [Results]

FENCE H.T. [Results]

Twin Rivers CCI, CIC, & H.T. [Results]

St. Johns H.T. [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

Clark Montgomery continues to make the U.S. proud with a top 20 finish with Loughan Glen in the huge CIC3* division (we’re talking 120+ starters) at the Belton Horse Trials this weekend. This was the 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding’s first run since his big win at the Blenheim CCI3* since last September. [Belton results]

Owning beautiful horses and calling yourself an equestrian is a fashion consideration for some celebrities, but Kaley Cuoco, of Big Bang Theory fame, seems to be the real deal. She rides, she competes, she works at it, she gets it. Kaley Cuoco isn’t just a famous woman who likes to ride, she’s an ambassador for our entire sport. [Keeping Up With Kaley Cuoco]

Weekly Business Tip from Mythic Landing Enterprises: Every good business plan includes a budget. I cannot stress to you enough how important it is to create a budget and to regularly check in on it! I’m a horse person just like you, and I know how tempting it is to buy one.more.pair. of breeches. And don’t even get me started on the fact that my horse has more coats than I do. But I can honestly tell you that if I didn’t have a budget and keep close watch on it, my business would not still be here. It’s so easy to buy that extra pair of breeches or cute new fleece cooler, and there’s no reason why you still can’t make those purchases … just budget for them. And the best part is that budget-friendly purchases are guilt-free purchases.

Intercollegiate eventing has grown by leaps and bounds over the last two years, and many universities area celebrating continued success and growing interest. The University of Maryland has been working hard to make a team happen for their community, and they’re looking forward to a big year! [University of Maryland Eventing Team Celebrates Their First Year]

Does your horse have an inspiring story about coming back from a serious injury or illness? OCD Pellets wants to hear all about it! Send in your rehab to [email protected] for a chance to win an OCD prize pack (2-month supply of OCD Pellets, 1-month supply of COS Canine, and an OCD Pellets hat and T-shirt). Entries close Monday, May 2, 2016, and the story that receives the most views on EN will win. [Contest Details]

Because we have no sense of time or urgency when we’re at the barn, these are the words our significant others either shudder, smirk or roll their eyes to hear: Just Stopping By the Barn

FENCE Horse Trials Helmet Cam Alert!

Monday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Apr 11, 2016 1:08 am -

Come on guys lets put on some white spandex and go run at solid objects in the 28 degree weather!!! Happy Sunday everyone and good luck and HAPPY BIRTHDAY Silvio Mazzoni

Posted by Jennie Brannigan on Sunday, April 10, 2016

Standing ringside for days in a row, watching round after round, test after test with camera in hand isn’t just a great job, it’s a good education for a fellow rider. You end up counting strides along with the competitors, identifying turns and lines that do and don’t work, take note of geometry in tests and closely study equitation. I’m sure I’ve mentioned this all before, but in my bleary-eyed, post-four-day-horse-show condition, it’s what’s on my mind at the moment as next weekend I’ll be competing in a recognized event myself (a rarity). And while I worry nervously about remembering my test and jumping all the fences in the right order, I know that even the best and most experienced riders make mistakes and my job is to just do the best I can on the day and have fun with my amazing pony. What we have in common, no matter what level we compete, is that we’re all learning all the time. And that we’re almost certainly completely crazy.

U.S. Weekend Action:

CDCTA Spring H.T. [Results]

Chattahoochee Hills H.T. [Results]

Pine Hill Spring H.T. [Results]

Spring Bay H.T. [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

Weekly Business Tip from Mythic Landing Enterprises: When creating your business plan, remember that is isn’t something that is set in stone. It can gradually change as your business develops and grows. For example, when I started my business I named it “Mythic Landing Events” because I thought that I would be organizing shows and clinics every weekend. Fast forward eight years and my business is now named “Mythic Landing Enterprises” and the bulk of our business is in marketing and managing equine businesses of all shapes and sizes. My business has grown to fit the needs of my clients, much like I’m sure your business has changed slightly over the years to fit the needs of your clients.

Edwina Tops-Alexander (AUS) and her feisty mare Lintea Tequila claimed a victory at the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Miami Beach. That’s right. A show jumping competition on the beach. Some of EN’s photographer friends were there this weekend and while we love The Fork Horse Trials, we (at least, I) may or may not have been a tiny bit jealous. Horses, sunshine, bare toes in the sand? And it should be mentioned also that this is a fantastic way to present an equestrian sport to a new audience by hosting it somewhere beautiful and accessible. [Click here to read the show report] [Click here to see what the venue looks like]

The USEA is hosting an “r” Course Design Training Program at Waredaca June 3-5. This training program is for anyone interested in obtaining their “r” Course Design License or anyone interested in learning more about cross country course design. This course can also fufill the requirements to remain “certified” to design through the Training level at recognized events. [Information]

Does your horse have an inspiring story about coming back from a serious injury or illness? OCD Pellets wants to hear all about it! Send in your rehab to [email protected]for a chance to win an OCD prize pack (2-month supply of OCD Pellets, 1-month supply of COS Canine, and an OCD Pellets hat and T-shirt). Entries close Monday, May 2, 2016, and the story that receives the most views on EN will win. [Contest Details]

Monday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Apr 4, 2016 12:01 am -
Willow admiring the view in beautiful Green Creek, NC. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld. Willow admiring the view in beautiful Green Creek, NC. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

After numerous cancellations and rescheduling due to a very wet winter and weekend work trips cramping my pony-riding style, this weekend my adventure buddy, Willow, and I finally made it to a Western Carolina Hunter Pace. The weather was just right, the trails were perfect and the views were beyond breathtaking. For a couple of hours, it felt like we were back in Northern Virginia, wandering the countryside with no real destination but a comfortable state of bliss and the appreciation of each other’s companionship. Although these trails were well marked, we both enjoyed the meandering paths through grassy fields and shaded wood. We wrapped up the day with a picnic lunch by the trailer. A perfect day just hanging out with the pony.

Weekend Results:

Morven Park Spring H.T. [Results]

Rocking Horse Spring H.T. [Results]

Full Gallop Farm April H.T. [Results]

Texas Rose Horse Park H.T. [Results]

Galway Downs CIC & H.T. [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

The USA is leading after the first FEI Nations Cup™ Dressage Series competition for 2016. Led by Laura Graves and Verdades, who posted personal bests in both the Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special, the U.S. has a strong lead over second place Canada. [Team USA Wins Opening Leg]

Are you looking for a less severe but equally effective spur for your sensitive horse? Spursuaders, created by Linda Hauck, may be the answer you seek. Designed with a contact surface big enough to apply pressure but smooth enough so that it wouldn’t poke and jab the horse in an uncomfortable way, Spursuaders let you “talk” to your horse without offending it. [Check out Jumper Nation’s Spursuaders Product Review]

A 12-year-old girl was found dead in her horse’s pasture at Paradise Farm in Aiken, SC last Thursday. She died of severe head trauma and the death was ruled an accident by the coroner’s office. It’s a terrible tragedy and a difficult reminder of the dangers of horses, both in and out of the saddle. [Teen Equestrian Dies at Aiken Horse Farm]

Does your horse have an inspiring story about coming back from a serious injury or illness? OCD Pellets wants to hear all about it! Send in your rehab to [email protected] for a chance to win an OCD prize pack (2-month supply of OCD Pellets, 1-month supply of COS Canine, and an OCD Pellets hat and T-shirt). Entries close Monday, May 2, 2016, and the story that receives the most views on EN will win. [Contest Details]

The FEI Sports Forum 2016 begins today, April 4, in Lausanne, Switzerland. The forum will be live streamed free of charge on FEI TV today and tomorrow. [Schedule]

PONIES! Need I say more? [Postcard from Pony Land]

Best of the Blogs: Remember To Not Forget To Not Ride

Monday Video: Look who’s back!

Thursday Video from Nupafeed: Poplar Place Pocket Rocket Helmet Cam

By on Mar 31, 2016 5:00 pm -

John Crowell has brought Little Hail through the levels since the Thoroughbred gelding’s first Beginner Novice horse trials in 2014. At Poplar Place Farm’s most recent event, Little Hail completed his second Preliminary, finishing seventh in the Preliminary Rider division with two clear jumping rounds.

Little Hail, a 7-year-old owned by Bennett Williams, Dorothy Crowell and John, stormed around the course with only a handful of time penalties to add. Standing at 15.1 hands Little Hail is a pocket rocket to be sure, skimming easily over the wet turf, and his tidy knees make an appearance in the frame on more than one occasion. John’s enthusiasm only grows as the course continues and you can’t help but smile with every “Woo-hoo!”

Mastercraft’s Riders Pay It Forward for a Priceless Education

By on Mar 29, 2016 11:00 am -
Kaitlin Hartford and Mastercraft getting ready for cross country. Photo courtesy of Kaitlin Hartford.

Kaitlin Hartford and Mastercraft getting ready for cross country. Photo courtesy of Kaitlin Hartford.

C.S. Lewis said, “No one can teach riding so well as a horse,” and for one quirky gelding named Mastercraft, his destiny is to educate. Now 17 years old and known affectionately as EZ, the Irish Sport Horse has ironically not always been the easiest of rides, but he has nonetheless left a lasting impression on the people in his life.

“He’s special because he’s an incredible athlete,” said EZ’s former owner Wendy Lewis. “He is a little quirky and a little difficult to ride. He’s not going to just give it to you completely, but when you figure him out he’s amazing. He’s got tons of experience and is a really good jumper, brave and catty. You have to adjust your riding a little bit to EZ instead of telling him how it should be. As long as you guys find the middle ground, he’ll do anything for you.”

Wendy Lewis and Mastercraft competing in the 2012 Jersey Fresh CCI2*. Photo by Abby Gibbon.

Wendy Lewis and Mastercraft competing in the 2012 Jersey Fresh CCI2*. Photo by Abby Gibbon.

EZ was originally imported to the U.S. as a show jumper, but he was a tricky ride and so the owners reached out to some event riders thinking he might be better suited to a different discipline. Wendy purchased him in 2009 and sent him to Buck Davidson to ride while she was pregnant with her son. Not surprisingly, EZ, a son of famed eventing sire Cavalier, took to cross country as if he were born for it, and Buck took the horse through the 2* level within a year, finishing fifth at the Jersey Fresh CCI2* in 2010.

EZ returned to Wendy following Jersey Fresh and they progressed through the levels together, moving up to Advanced in 2012. Sadly, after competing at the Bromont CIC3* that summer, EZ started having soundness issues, so she retired him, sending him home to rest.

Buck Davidson and Mastercraft at Chattahoochee Hills in 2010. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Buck Davidson and Mastercraft at Chattahoochee Hills in 2010. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Yet, EZ is a horse who is happiest with a job, and the opportunity to give him a new one presented itself when Savannah “Woodge” Fulton, a working student for Buck, was searching for a new ride. Wendy offered EZ to Woodge to gain experience with at Training and Preliminary.

“As a kid growing up, I was very fortunate to be able to ride a few older ‘schoolmasters,’ and what they taught me was invaluable,” Woodge said. “Being able to ride something that knows and loves its job that can teach you how it’s supposed to be done is a feeling I wish everyone could experience.”

When Woodge was ready to move up, the search began for EZ’s next rider. “I knew I wanted to pass his knowledge on to someone else and pay forward what others had done for me,” she said.

Kaitlin and Mastercraft checking out their course map together. Photo courtesy of Kaitlin Hartford.

Kaitlin and Mastercraft checking out their course map together. Photo courtesy of Kaitlin Hartford.

Choosing a new rider for EZ meant finding a person who appreciated not only his talent but his plentiful quirks as well. “Like most old timers, he knew his job and was set in his ways. Anyone who tried to tell him otherwise was likely to see his grumpy side,” Woodge said.

Enter Kaitlin Hartford, a young rider with big dreams and looking to step up from her pony. After watching a video of Wendy riding EZ Advanced, Kaitlin reached out to the Fultons to inquire. “I think it was his face,” Kaitlin said. “He’s got a really kind eye that caught my attention.”

The Fultons heavily vetted interested persons to be sure they found the right fit for this special horse, but “Kaitlin and her family checked all the right boxes.” So they gave EZ to Kaitlin, for free. “The only stipulation is when I’m done, I’ll pay it forward to someone else who needs him,” Kaitlin explained.

Kaitlin and EZ schooling cross country. Photo by Jessie Hartford.

Kaitlin and EZ schooling cross country. Photo by Jessie Hartford.

After an initial adjustment period to figure one another out, Kaitlin and EZ have hit their stride, and she finds his quirks endearing, insisting he has multiple personalities. “He’s super grumpy when I’m grooming him, but he loves his ears scratched. And he loves oranges.”

Since their partnership began last summer, Kaitlin and EZ have moved up to Training level with the help of their trainer Hilda Donahue. Kaitlin hopes to qualify for the Area III Championships and American Eventing Championships this year, and, if EZ is up for it, compete at the NAJYRC CCI* in 2017.

“It’s been about two years since EZ has been with Kaitlin and it couldn’t have worked out any better. At Rocking Horse I was able to catch up with them and see EZ again and it was truly adorable horse much they love each other,” Woodge said. “The admiration Kaitlin has for EZ’s talent and history and the smug look on that horse’s face knowing he has tricked yet another kid into feeding him endless amounts of treats made me smile and assured me he was in exactly the right place.”

Chatting with Wendy over the phone, the smile was clear in her voice when she said, “I’m so glad he’s still teaching people and making someone else happy.”

Kaitlin and EZ sharing a quiet moment. Photo courtesy of Kaitlin Hartford.

Kaitlin and EZ sharing a quiet moment. Photo courtesy of Kaitlin Hartford.

Monday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Mar 28, 2016 6:00 am -

And the photo bomb award goes to Joan Symansky and Papa Kieffs!

Posted by Allison Springer Eventing on Sunday, March 27, 2016

I’m just thrilled for Allison Springer and Arthur’s incredible success at Carolina International. Putting all three phases together can be so difficult, especially with the pressure of a large and extremely competitive division. Allison is the nicest person and so dedicated to Arthur. She fiercely believes in him and his talent, and it’s so nice to see a long-term partnership like theirs flourish. They deserve this win and all our congratulations!

Events This Weekend:

#2016CI Links: Results, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Poplar Place Farm CIC & H.T. [Results] [EN Coverage]

Stable View Winter II H.T. [Results]

MeadowCreek Park H.T. [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

Morven Park needs jump judges for their horse trials next weekend. Volunteers are needed both days to help with dressage and cross country. No experience is necessary, but it’s a great way to see top equestrian athletes in action. Volunteers will receive lunch and schooling perks. [Click here to sign up]

Germany took control of the FEI Nations Cup Eventing leaderboard with a win it the opening leg of the series at Fontainebleau CIC3* in France this weekend, led by the indefatigable Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW. Michael also finished second with FischerRocana FST. [FEI News]

The August 2016 Great Lakes Equestrian Festival has announced the addition of FEI CSI2* and CSI3* weeks, as well as a $25,000 U-25 Grand Prix to the schedule. There is a ton of prize money on the line, and if you’re looking for a nice summer vacation that involves watching amazing horses in action, Traverse City was voted by Smithsonian Magazine one of the “Top 10 Best Small Towns to Visit in 2015.” [Jumper Nation]

California Chrome made history on Saturday becoming the highest-earning Thoroughbred racehorse in history with a dramatic win in the Dubai World Cup. Even as his saddle slipped dangerously back, the horse continued to pull away down the stretch and jockey Victor Espinoza stayed mesmerizingly balanced all the way to a new track record. [Blood Horse]

Does your horse have an inspiring story about coming back from a serious injury or illness? OCD Pellets wants to hear all about it! Send in your rehab to [email protected]for a chance to win an OCD prize pack (2-month supply of OCD Pellets, 1-month supply of COS Canine, and an OCD Pellets hat and T-shirt). Entries close Monday, May 2, 2016, and the story that receives the most views on EN will win. [Contest Details]

Kentucky Equine Research and EN are teaming up to host the Great KER Fitness Challenge this spring! Download the free KER ClockIt Sport app for your phone and record your rides for a chance to win a $100 gift card to shop.kerx.com, an EcoGold Secure XC Saddle Pad, a lesson with your choice of Bruce Davidson, Liz Halliday-Sharp, or Dom or Jimmie Schramm; and feature story about you and your horse on EN. [Contest Details]

Monday Video:

Who Jumped It Best? Poplar Place College Team Challenge Edition

By on Mar 27, 2016 3:00 pm -

In addition to three FEI divisions and Beginner Novice through Advanced Horse Trials, Poplar Place Farm hosted both an Area III Adult Team Challenge and a Collegiate Team Challenge with six teams participating in each challenge.

Auburn, University of Georgia, Columbus State University, Alabama, Translyvania and Mississippi State sent riders to participate in the Challenge. UGA won the team challenge on a score of 115.1 followed closely by Alabama in second place on a score of 116.8. Click here to see the final team scores.

Many of the teams were fundraising to help finance their trip to the inaugural USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Team Championship at the Virginia Horse Trials May 26-29. It was great to see these young riders taking the initiative to support their team and the camaraderie displayed at this weekend’s event!

Now it’s time to play a friendly game of “Who Jumped It Best?” featuring college team riders competing at the Novice level at Poplar Place Farm.

Poplar Place Farm CIC & H.T. [Website] [Live Scores] [EN Coverage]

Emily Carden and Schwalbestrum (UGA/Auburn). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Emily Carden and Schwalbestrum (UGA/Auburn). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Johannah Crumpton and Tip Share (UGA). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Johannah Crumpton and Tip Share (UGA). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Whitney Granberry and Caraway Pippa (UGA). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Whitney Granberry and Caraway Pippa (UGA). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Meagan Majchszak and Imperial's Catch (Alabama). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Meagan Majchszak and Imperial’s Catch (Alabama). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Charlotte Pruet and Valadour (Translyvania/FSU). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Charlotte Pruet and Valadour (Translyvania/MS State). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Kris Keating, The Sugar Lady

By on Mar 27, 2016 12:00 pm -
Kris Keating, The Sugar Lady. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld. Kris Keating, The Sugar Lady. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

They call her The Sugar Lady, and the horses know her well. Marching down the hill towards dressage warm-up at Poplar Place Farm, with their ears pricked and eyes sparkling, horses approach the white steward’s tent already reaching towards volunteer Kris Keating.

She retrieves a white sugar cube from the pouch at her waist and coos lovingly as a horse happily munches away. It barely notices when she discreetly slides a gloved finger inside its mouth to check the bit. Chatting casually with the rider, she checks the girth and gives their boots a swipe with the rag before sending them on their way.

“She’s a full service provider,” Lora Fields, another steward, says to me as we observe the proceedings. “And she takes her time.”

Indeed, not all horses are eager to have their bit checked, and they will dance and chew nervously. Unconcerned, Kris encourages these horses to accept the treat and quietly reassures them, taking as long as necessary to accomplish the task.

Some of the horses, like Candace Bell's Nimbalina, know Kris keeps sugar cubes in a pack around her waist. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Some of the horses, like Candace Bell’s Nimbalina, know Kris keeps sugar cubes in a pack around her waist. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Kris is now in her 13th year of volunteering. She works every recognized horse trials and dressage show at Poplar Place as well as three-quarters of the schooling shows. In 2016, that will amount to more than 15 weekends.

“I’ve always been horse crazy,” Kris said. “When I moved here due to the military, I found out about Poplar Place and came to a horse show. Then I found out that you could volunteer here. So I signed up! And that’s the end of that!”

Her first volunteer position was warm-up steward, and that is what she has stuck with all this time.

“I get to see a lot of really nice things because a lot of times the riders will push their horses a little more in the warm-up than they will in the actual show arena,” she said. “I’ll probably never get to ride anything this nice in my lifetime, but I get to touch every single one of them.”

Distracted by sugar cubes and snuggles, most horses don't notice when Kris checks their bit. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Distracted by sugar cubes and snuggles, most horses don’t notice when Kris checks their bit. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Kris’s favorite part of the job is getting to love on all the horses. Yet the sugar she offers up isn’t just to spoil the animals she has come to know so well over years.

“The sugar is a bribe in a way to get them to not pay attention to a rubber glove,” she explained. “I always try to give them a piece of sugar and give them something else to think about. Then I try to be just as easy going with the bit check as possible. I think it does help. A lot of them know they’re going to get it so they look forward to coming down here.”

The riders, too, know and trust Kris, and many find comfort in her steady presence. At the very least, they know she would never let them head to the competition ring with stray wisps of shavings in their horse’s tail or dirt on their boots.

“I love this job. I will do it until I am physically not capable of doing it anymore.”

Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Nilson Moreira da Silva and Muggle Gallop to Victory at Poplar Place CIC3*

By on Mar 26, 2016 6:50 pm -
Nilson Moreira da Silva and Muggle. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld. Nilson Moreira da Silva and Muggle. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Time became the deciding factor in the Poplar Place Farm CIC3*, and Nilson Moreira da Silva (BRA) and Muggle came out on top with the fastest clear round of the division. The event was a good lead-up for the pair’s first CCI4* attempt coming soon at Rolex Kentucky, and Nilson was clearly very pleased with his results.

“Muggle is getting better and better. We have finally started to figure out the dressage and I’m really happy with his score. He jumped beautiful this morning in show jumping and he showed in the cross country how good he is coming,” Nilson said.

The pair scored a 48.2 in dressage to secure second place. One rail over a tough show jumping course dropped them to third, but a clear round and only 5.2 time penalties to add on cross country resulted in a win with ten points to spare.

Nilson and Muggle, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred cross gelding owned by the Phoenix Syndicate made up of Nilson, Melissa Stubenburg, Laura VanderVliet and Kathleen Overbaugh, have now completed ten three-stars together over the last three years. They qualified for Rolex last year, but Nilson ultimately decided they needed more experience. Now they aim to tackle their first four-star in April and are on track to represent Brazil at the Rio Olympics this summer.

Nilson receives help from his partner, Laura VanderVliet, at home and receives coaching from Bruce Davidson as well as the Brazilian team coach Mark Todd. All three will be there with him in Kentucky. “I can’t ask for more,” Nilson said.

A three-star win isn’t the only thing to make today special. Nilson met Laura at this event five years ago not long after he moved from Brazil to the U.S; Nilson began his eventing career here and he and Laura now have a business together, L & N Equestrian. Today is also Nilson’s mother’s birthday.

“Looking back five years ago and how far I’ve come, that’s because I have really nice people behind me. I have my owners Melissa and Kathleen and my sponsors Antares and Triple Crown. I’m going to try to do the best I can. I have a really good team supporting me. I can’t ask for more.”

Joe Meyer and Clip Clop. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Joe Meyer and Clip Clop. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The general consensus among the riders I’ve spoken with is that even though some places on course are a bit heavy from Thursday’s deluge of rain, they were glad for the softer ground. Joe Meyer (NZL) and Clip Clop skipped across the course as the three-star division’s trailblazers, adding 11.2 time penalties to finish in second place on a score 67.6, moving up from ninth place after dressage.

“Clippy,” a 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by Joe, Madison Foote and Theresa Foote, will also be making his first four-star appearance at Rolex in April. Joe brought him to Poplar for a good fitness run. “He was good on the hills and that’s what we really needed. We still have a bit more fitness to do the next couple of weeks,” Joe said. “He’s getting much more settled and much more relaxed. A year ago he was still massively wound up at the start and really quite a handful. He’s much quieter now.”

“We were going at a good clip but not flat out. When I got back I was a little disappointed because I had a couple of waiting distances and should have [moved on]. Saying that, you do have a couple of butterflies when it’s your last planned run before a real big one. It’s nice to get that out of the way.”

While many Rolex-bound riders plan to run once more at The Fork, Joe is opting to do the Advanced-CT at Ocala and some show jumping at Longwood in addition to their fitness work.

Julie Richards and Sandhills Brillaire. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Julie Richards and Sandhills Brillaire. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Julie Richards and Sandhills Brillaire were fifth after Friday’s dressage on a 50.2. This morning she and the 14-year-old Thoroughbred/Warmblood mare produced the only double-clear show jumping round in the division, moving into second place. Time penalties on cross country dropped them to third, but Julie is thrilled with the mare’s weekend and is looking forward to continuing to develop their partnership.

“The horse is the most genuine-minded horse I’ve ever ridden,” Julie said. “I’ve had so many Advanced horses, and she’s the calmest horse. I don’t know if it’s intelligence or what, she just knows the job. She’s such a good animal and she’s always giving you everything she has.”

Julie got the ride on “Sparkle” in October 2015, when the Richards family bought her site unseen from her breeder Chris Barrett in Australia, who piloted the mare to a win at the 2012 Adelaide CCI4*. Now owned by Equine Olympic Investments, she is aiming for the Summer Olympics and nearly have their qualifications in order. They will aim for the Ocala CCI2* in April and if all goes well compete in the U.S. Olympic Selection Trials at the Jersey Fresh CCI3* in May. This event was their first Advanced together.

“There were little things I know we can improve, but her dressage is getting so much more connected with me,” Julie said. “In show jumping she is so careful. Cross country was good. It was not overly huge but there was enough out there. I just stayed confident and rode as fast at the jumps as I would at a proper three-day, I just didn’t pick up the gear in between.

“At Ocala I will do the best dressage I can, I don’t want to leave one mark out. At Jersey, I better be competitive. I’ll be trying to make the time there. I set the goal to get her qualified [for the Olympics]. When I started I thought how far fetched it was, now it’s starting to feel like it could be a reality.”

Katie Ruppel and Houdini. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld

Katie Ruppel and Houdini. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld

Katie Ruppel and her own 12-year-old Thoroughbred gelding Houdini held their lead after this morning’s show jumping, lowering one rail but entering cross country with a fair amount of breathing room. They were clear, but a few too many time penalties dropped them to a fourth place finish on 72.3.

“It was a really good confidence builder for him. It wasn’t tricky but it was hard enough with hard lines and angles. It was a good confidence building course and hopefully all the horses came off the course feeling better,” Katie said.

Katie and Houdini will be making a return to Rolex this year to contest North America’s toughest track for the third time. “He’s going better than ever right now. I took him to France [for Pau CCI4*] last fall and we didn’t get the results we wanted, but I feel like the trip helped him and made him grow up. It was a really good experience for him. Hopefully he will not be so wide-eyed going into Kentucky this year and he will perform much the same as he did this weekend.”

Katie and Houdini were the only pair in the division to crack the 30s on Friday’s dressage. They scored a 37.1 to take an early lead. “He’s always been a pretty good dressage horse, but he’s a little quirky, hot, sensitive and nervous. Getting him to the ring takes quite a while but finally at 12 years old I think I have finally figured out what works for him and it seems to be working better and better. I’m really pleased with the test he put in.”

Katie has had Houdini since he was a 2-year-old and produced him up the levels. “He’s a pet. He’s my buddy. He’s really a very sweet horse,” she said. “I want to have fun. He’s my own horse. I own him and I’ve had him for ten years. I just want to enjoy him at the top level. He owes me nothing.”

Karl Slezak and Fernhill Wishes. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Karl Slezak and Fernhill Wishes. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Karl Slezak (CAN) and Fernhill Wishes, a 7-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by Karl and Kirk Hoppner, held fast to their lead in the CIC2* to win handily on a score of 47.4. The pair scored a 37.8 on the flat to take an early lead. A double-clear show jumping round followed by a clear cross country with 9.6 time penalties secured a win for the young horse in only his second two-star appearance.

Nilson Moreira da Silva and Cash, an 8-year-old Thoroughbred owned by the Phoenix Syndicate, rocketed up the leaderboard today. They were 12th after dressage on a 53.6 and posted two clear jumping rounds and adding 6.8 cross country time penalties on cross country to finish second.

Likewise, Lizzy Jahnke and Princeton moved up from ninth place after dressage to finish in third on a 61.6. In their first two-star as a pair, Lizzy and the 10-year-old Thoroughbred owned by Light Speed Equestrian, LLC jumped double-clear in show jumping and added only time penalties to their score on cross country.

Maren Foster and Caribbean Soul led from start to finish in the CIC*, adding 10.0 time penalties on cross country to finish on a 53.4. Haley Currey and Resolute Protector were second with a 58.2 followed by Susie Beale and her own and Leslie Collins’ Amasing F who finished on the same score.

The Training levels show jump tomorrow while Novice and Beginner Novice run cross country. We’ll have more from Poplar Place Farm coming soon.

Poplar Place Farm CIC & H.T. [Website] [Live Scores] [EN Coverage]

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