View Classifieds
Articles Written 1,169
Article Views 3,157,658

Leslie Threlkeld

Achievements

Become an Eventing Nation Blogger

About Leslie Threlkeld

Latest Articles Written

Poplar Place Farm CIC3* Cross Country Course Walk

By on Mar 26, 2016 8:00 am -
12ab. Poplar Lake 12ab. Poplar Lake

Originally, Poplar Place Farm in Hamilton, Ga. had schedule the weekend’s FEI divisions to show jump today and run cross country tomorrow, but due to inclement weather incoming on Sunday, the organizers opted to run both jumping phases for the FEI divisions today. Show jumping for the CIC3* begins at 8:30 with a quick turnaround to cross country at 11:00.

The course is designed by Poplar Place Farm’s longtime designer Tremaine Cooper and built by Tyson Rementer, whose work is well recognized in the many intricate wood carvings found on course. Rob Mobley is also on site this weekend helping with course prep and maintenance.

The track well utilizes Poplar’s rolling terrain, switching back over the property several times but giving horse and rider plenty of time to stand up and gallop. The Advanced follows the same track as the three-star with some differing technical elements noted in the gallery below.

Three of our top four after dressage are entered at Rolex Kentucky: Overnight leader Katie Ruppel and Houdini (though her name is not yet listed on the entries, she has sent one in), Nilson Moreira da Silva and Muggle, Sara Murphy and Catchascatchcan. They’ll all be looking to jump clear of course, but we may see a shake up in the leaderboard in they opt to give their horses a quiet, easy run.

Stay tuned for more from Poplar Place Farm!

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

Katie Ruppel and Houdini Charm the Judges to Lead Poplar Place CIC3*

By on Mar 25, 2016 5:22 pm -
Katie Ruppel and Houdini. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld. Katie Ruppel and Houdini. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Poplar Place Farm in Hamilton, Ga. is hosting close to 250 horses for their annual March Horse Trials, which welcomes national divisions from Beginner Novice through Advanced and a CIC*, CIC2* and CIC3*. The event also features an Adult Team Challenge and Intercollegiate Team Challenge.

Coming into the arena as the penultimate CIC3* combination, Katie Ruppel and her 12-year-old Thoroughbred gelding Houdini laid down a light, flashy test that kept Katie beaming throughout. A 37.1 gives them a commanding lead going into the jumping phases tomorrow.

Nilson Moreira da Silva (BRA) and Muggle, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred cross owned by Nilson and The Phoenix Syndicate, are second with a 48.2. Joe Meyer (NZL) and South Paw, a 9-year-old Hanoverian/Thoroughbred stallion owned by Joe and Ruth Meyer and Nora McDonald Yaney, wrapped up the division with a 48.6, putting them in third place. Joe is also ninth in the same division on a 52.4 with Clip Clop.

In the CIC2*, Karl Slezak (CAN) and Fernhill Wishes put in a very relaxed and obedient test. They were the only pair in the division of 23 starters to crack into the the 30s and are the overnight leaders with a score of 37.8. Fernhill Wishes is a 7-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by Karl and Kirk Hoppner.

Karl and Fernhill Wishes finished ninth in the CIC2* at Red Hills this year and were Intermediate/Preliminary winners at Rocking Horse in January. Imported from Ireland as a 4-year-old, the gelding has made an impressive climb up the levels since his first Training level horse trials in February 2015.

Leslie Law (GBR) and his and Carmen Anderson’s stunning grey gelding Call the Law, another 7-year-old Irish Sport Horse, is second in the two-star with a 42.2. Amanda Beale Clement, 16, and Susie Beale’s 13-year-old Thoroughbred Peter Pan scored a 45.2 to secure third place in their first two-star appearance together.

Karl Slezak and Fernhill Wishes. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Karl Slezak and Fernhill Wishes. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Maren Foster and Caribbean Soul are at the top of the CIC* leaderboard with a 43.4. Maren has brought the now 9-year-old Thoroughbred mare up from the Novice level. This is their second FEI appearance having completed the Red Hills CIC* earlier this month. Dani Sussman and Dani and Kristin Martin’s Howard County Hank are second in the CIC* on a 48.9. Haley Curry and Resolute Protector round out the top three with a 49.2.

Due to inclement weather incoming on Sunday, tomorrow’s schedule has been altered so that the FEI divisions will complete both show jumping and cross country in one day. Stay tuned for much more from Poplar Place including a virtual course walk of the CIC3* cross country and a special volunteer spotlight.

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

Screen Shot 2016-03-25 at 3.57.34 PM

Thursday Video from Nupafeed USA: World’s Worst Dressage Caller

By on Mar 24, 2016 4:30 pm -

Except in the case of the new Assistance Allowed Eventing Tests, dressage tests may not be called for eventers, no matter how many different levels we’re riding at one competition. But calling a test is no simple matter. It does require focus, the ability to speak loudly and clearly and at least a basic understanding of dressage movements and letters.

As a sometimes announcer at dressage shows, I’ve seen good and bad callers, but this one might the worst ever!

Though she may not be so good at giving instructions, when it comes to her interpretation of each movement, she might actually be on to something. “Giraffe on a free-rein please!” Warning: there is at least one instance of foul-mouthed exasperation from the rider (but we can hardly blame her!).

10 Questions with Jessica Bortner-Harris Presented by Omega Alpha

By on Mar 23, 2016 3:00 pm -
Jessica Bortner-Harris and Win the War. Photo by ED/Hoofclix.com Jessica Bortner-Harris and Win the War. Photo by ED/Hoofclix.com

1. How did Bug get his name, Win the War?

I went to Charles Town Racetrack to pick him up with shipping boots, travel helmet, and tail wrap. I was getting him all suited up and this big, fat racetrack trainer guy comes up and he says, “You sure do have a lot of armor for that horse!” I say, “Yeah, well, it’s the most money I’ve spent on a horse, and he’s young, and I don’t want him to get hurt in the trailer.” He sort of huffs and walks off.

Later, it’s dusk, and we are walking him to the trailer down the shedrow outside, and the big dude comes running out behind us and throws his fist in the air and says, “Win the war, Buddy, win the war!” Bug’s Jocky Club name is “Little Jitterbug” and I had every intention of showing him as that, as it was as cute as he was. However, after that, my best friend said, you HAVE to show him as “Win the War.” That’s too awesome.

2. What is your best eventing memory with Bug?

It’s tough to nail down just one memory that I love. I think my best memory is finally getting our CCI3* cross country done. We have had a lot of road blocks and silly little things getting in our way in the past, and we just couldn’t seem to get it done. That was pretty tough for me mentally, because I knew that he had what it took to get it done and get it done well. When we crossed the finish line at Jersey Fresh last spring, I just leaned down and hugged my boy and told him, “I finally rode the way you deserved. We finally did it!”

3. Tell us about your other up-and-coming horse, Bishop.

The second horse in the Win the War Syndicate, Bishop de Selah, is a 7-year-old Zweibrucker gelding. He is pretty fabulous and makes me grin like an idiot just as Bug does. He was born and raised in West Virginia at Selahway Farm owned by Jane Hartleroad. One of my best friends, Autumn Grogan, got him going and did his basic work. The day I met him, I fell in love. He’s a quirky dude, but he and I have always just clicked.

I acquired him from her last May, and he has just blossomed as the months have passed. He has now done two Training level events, and he’s just amazing. Funny enough, his attitude about this sport really reminds me of Bug at that age. Bold but careful. If it’s scary, just jump higher. He is an amazing mover and jumper and just finds it all so much fun. (Jessica is still selling shares for the syndicate. Email her for more info.)

4. You’ve recently moved your business to a new farm in North Carolina. Talk about that change and what it means for you.

My personal farm has been located on my husband’s family’s land in a beautiful but extremely rural area. I love it there, but it has made running the business pretty difficult. I was driving over an hour to teach each of my students, so I was spending five or six hours in the car every day. It meant my days were extremely long, and I was running myself very thin. This new venture with John and Kim Sigmon is going to be amazing. I do have to drive over an hour to get to Sigmon Farm Park in Newton, N.C., but it’s one drive a day, rather than multiple. The farm is beautiful and located in a much more populated area. The horses love it there and the care is unmatched.

Kim and I make an excellent team, and I’m really excited about where things will lead. This new venture has also pushed me to make some major changes. I am no longer breeding, and I am downsizing my herd by a lot. When you own your own farm, sometimes it’s easy to just take on too many. My goal is to get down to just my string and two select young horses from my breeding program that I believe will be lovely eventers. We will then take on 2-3 resale horses at a time. Kim is an avid fox hunter but has done pretty much everything you can think of on a horse. Between the two of us, we should have some pretty fabulous horses to sell.

Jessica riding Bishop in a lesson with Clayton Fredericks. Photo by Mia Hughes.

Jessica riding Bishop in a lesson with Clayton Fredericks. Photo by Mia Hughes.

5. If you could try any other riding discipline, what would be and why?

I think straight show jumping would be a blast on the right horse. People have told me for years that I should take Bug over to the jumper ring and win some money. I think he would love it!

6. If you could ride any other eventing horse, past or present, who would be and why?

That’s a tough one! I think I would choose Cooley Cross Border. I remember the video that Kim took of him from Ireland, and I was enamored then! He is such a very cool horse. I love a horse with some cheek and he definitely has it. Kim has done an impeccable job with him.

7. An injury disrupted your season goal to reach Rolex. What kind of advice would you give to another rider who may have suffered a recent set back?

I have learned with horses, all things can go wrong. My best advice is to be able to write your plans in pencil and not be afraid to use an eraser…a lot. I am a planner, through and through, but I have gotten a lot better over the years to sit down and reassess. I’m hugely bummed about my plans being changed this year, but I already have a new plan, and if that goes awry, I’ll come up with another. This sport definitely teaches you to rise from the ashes over and over and over.

8. Now that you’re back in the saddle, what is your priority going to be moving forward this year?

Going forward this year, my goal is to go to Rebecca Farm for the CCI3* with Bug. I have always wanted to go, and this set back has made the timeline make more sense. At this point he knows his job, so I don’t plan to run him off his feet. I will be super selective about where he goes leading up to it, and he will have a pretty quiet fall. I hope to save him for the big things I want to do and keep him happy and sound for as long as possible. In light of Bug having a lighter year, I am hoping that Bishop gets to have more mileage and maybe shoot for a CCI* late in the fall.

9. Who is your equestrian idol?

This is a tough one. I’m not sure that I can pick just one! I try to take traits from all riders that I really love and aspire to be like that. There is so much to learn from every rider that you watch. I love the way Clayton Fredericks can sit patiently and wait for the distance he wants. I love the way Phillip Dutton can see a distance from 100 miles away every time. I love that Kim Severson is accurate and always on point in the dressage. I love that Bonnie Mosser is a genius at both horse and rider fitness. I love that William Fox-Pitt can keep his super tall body so quiet on every horse that he rides. The list goes on and on. I am also a huge fan of every rider that appreciates their horses and thanks them for the hard work they put in for them every day.

10. What is your favorite Omega Alpha product?

My favorite Omega Alpha product is definitely AntiFlam, though it’s hard to choose just one. My horses work hard and deserve to feel their best. I can see a huge difference in them when they’re on AntiFlam. They have less soreness and recover well after work.

Omega Alpha Antiflam alleviates rheumatic pains and body aches in horses, especially in the back, joints, legs and hooves. Appropriate for administration in both chronic and acute cases, Antiflam also relieves muscle pain and inflammation, encourages the body to repair damaged tissue, strengthens capillaries to prevent swelling and acts as an anti-inflammatory on ligaments and joints. Click here to learn more.

Badminton Entries Go Live

By on Mar 23, 2016 9:00 am -
Sam Griffiths and Paulank Brockagh at Badminton. Photo by Jenni Autry. Sam Griffiths and Paulank Brockagh at Badminton. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The entry list for the 2016 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton CCI4* went live this morning. Ninety horses have been accepted and another 27 are wait-listed. Only a maximum of 85 horses will ultimately compete, but more are shown on the accepted list because of double entries and riders who have entered mutliple horses.

Twelve nations are represented on the accepted entry list, including a strong contingent from the United States. Buck Davidson has entered Park Trader and The Apprentice, and Boyd Martin has four horses entered (Cracker Jack, Master Frisky, Blackfoot Mystery, Shamwari 4). These six horses are also all entered at Rolex Kentucky; Buck and Boyd must declare their final entries to Rolex by the closing date of March 29.

Lynn Symansky and the Donner Syndicate’s Donner are also double-entered in both Rolex and Badminton. Phillip Dutton has one horse entered at Badminton with his relatively new ride Indian Mill, and Libby Head is entered on her pocket rocket Sir Rockstar. Kathryn Robinson and Let It Bee are the sole representatives from Canada.

Anna Collier and Gleaming Road and Tiana Coudray with Rindwood Magister are currently wait listed.

We’re delighted to see both William Fox-Pitt and Andrew Nicholson entered. William has entered his 2012 Rolex Kentucky winner Parklane Hawk and Andrew has entered his 2014 World Equestrian Games mount Nereo and three-time Burghley winner Avebury.

Sam Griffiths is entered with 2014 Badminton winner Paulank Brockagh as well as Happy Times.

[Badminton 2016 Entries and Wait List]

Monday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Mar 21, 2016 12:03 am -

This is what Pine Top officials do after they finish their duties, they fence judge the rest of the afternoon! We have the best officials ever! What a great way to support volunteering.

Posted by Pine Top Eventing on Friday, March 18, 2016

We talk often about the importance of volunteerism and giving back to the sport. This weekend at Pine Top’s final event of the early 2016 season, we saw a great example of that from none other than the event’s officials! Pictured above is dressage judge Nancy Pope and show jumping course designer Chris Barnard fence judging during Friday’s Preliminary one-day horse trials. Chris also fence judged all day on Sunday, and dressage judge Amanda Miller Atkins scribed for dressage on Friday. Bonnie Kibbie, a pathfinder for the budding Volunteer Incentive Program, ran scores and jumped judged in between ride times (she finished second in Preliminary Rider with Loki). There were others, I don’t doubt, and Pine Top has a very dedicated and longstanding group of volunteers who help everything run smoothly. Thanks to the officials for their extra time and the volunteers for everything they do for the sport. We couldn’t do any of this without you!

U.S. Weekend Events:

Pine Top Spring H.T. [Results]

Feather Creek Farm H.T. [Results]

Copper Meadows H.T. [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

While we’re on the subject of volunteers, did you see that USEA President-elect Carol Kozlowski is working her way through a volunteer bucket list? A longtime competitor, coach, organizer and judge, Carol is determined to experience every aspect of the sport. Leading by example, Carol says, “As I step into the Presidency, I think it’s going to give me credibility when I say ‘I understand your issues.’” [A Volunteer’s Bucket List]

Many of us know the remarkable story of The Gentleman Pirate, the OTTB who made a miraculous full recovery after breaking his neck in a pasture accident. He and his owner/rider Kelsey Briggs, who is immeasurably dedicated to her talented horse, have returned to competing and are making their move up to Advanced this year. [Horse of a Lifetime]

Spring may be on it’s way, but I wouldn’t say mud season is over quite yet. Your pastures may be suffering the effects of long-term saturation, but fear not! There are solutions to your soggy problem and techniques to prepare for a luscious spring. [My Winter Fields Are Trashed]

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]

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]

Our world (by that I mean, the horse world) is the most beautiful. Here’s proof. [Spectacular Horse Show Skies]

One of my favorite ever Rolex rounds!

5 Minute Clinic with Dana Cooke: Schooling Green Horses on Cross Country

By on Mar 18, 2016 1:00 pm -
Dana Cooke and FE Ophelia at Five Points Horse Trials. Photo courtesy of High Time Photography. Dana Cooke and FE Ophelia at Five Points Horse Trials. Photo courtesy of High Time Photography.

Schooling a green horse on cross country could be described as anywhere from thrilling to nerve-wracking to downright frightening, and leave you with feelings of pride, exhilaration or desperately in need of a stiff drink. These emotions, in my humble opinion, are affected not only by your own confidence and skill level, but also the fact that it is difficult to predict how your inexperienced horse will take to running and jumping over solid obstacles. Will it fly high or put on the brakes? Will it love cross country as much as you do?

During a recent cross country mini-clinic with Dana Cooke at Kingfisher Park in Mooresville, North Carolina, there were several inexperienced horses in the Starter and Beginner Novice groups. I had two there myself: a 5-year-old doing her very first cross country school and a pony who has done several Starter trials.

Throughout each lesson, the same themes kept emerging. Rule #1 was to make the experience a positive one. To do this, help the horse understand the questions they face, offer liberal praise and build their confidence so that they learn to enjoy cross country and not feel stressed about it.

There can be quite a lot to look at on a sunny Saturday at a popular schooling venue, and Dana stressed that it is fine for a horse to have a look around and take some time to settle, but as long as it wasn’t taking off, try not to hold a tight contact, she said. Use frequent half-halts, but try to let go and give them the chance to hold their own speed and balance. Slow your posting down to help set a pace and keep your upper body back so you aren’t inadvertently encouraging them to rush forward. By doing this, you are helping the horse learn to relax, instead of constantly hanging on them to slow down, which can cause stress and anxiety for both horse and rider.

Start over small, simple jumps and repeat the effort until they are quietly negotiating the fence. If they try to rush or don’t understand the question, let the horse walk towards the fence on a straight line so they have time to see it and ask them to trot a few strides away from the fence. Here again, Dana had the riders keep their hands deliberately forward so as not to pull back and confuse the horse. Soon the horses would pick up the pace on their own once they were on a straight line to the jump and approach it in a soft, relaxed manner.

It is of course not unusual for a green horse to stop at a fence while schooling, and I feel like the general consensus of professional riders I’ve worked with is that you don’t punish the horse for stopping the first time because it doesn’t understand the question. Teach the horse to “solve the puzzle” and have confidence in itself instead of bullying it over fences it’s afraid of. If a horse stops, you can let the horse look at the jump and circle back to approach again, but Dana prefers to keep the horse’s eye on the fence until it’s been cleared.

If a horse stopped in front of a fence during lessons, Dana had the rider back the horse up quietly several steps in as straight of a line as possible. Then they moved forward again straight away to jump the fence. By doing this, the horse never turns away from the fence but has some extra time to see and understand the question before continuing on from a safe distance. For this exercise, Dana said she teaches all her horses to back up early on. It is important to note that the fences were no more than 2’7″ in height.

Introducing a green horse to water and ditches can be the most “interesting” part of a schooling day. Having a lead horse is helpful, but giving the horse time to see and understand this new question is paramount. Dana said “don’t pull back, just steer.” Grabbing mane or having a neck strap is useful so you don’t catch the horse in the mouth if they over jump the first few times. Repeat the effort several times until they are confidently trotting through the water and hopping over a ditch. Walking quietly towards the obstacle and then trotting confidently forward several strides out worked well in these situations as well.

The takeaway is to make cross country schooling a happy and positive experience for a horse — especially a green horse — from start to finish. Their confidence will build as they go and they will relish from the praise of a job well done.

Dana Cooke has been the Director of Equestrian Activities at Kingfisher Park Equestrian in Mooresville, N.C. since January 2015. She is an “A” Pony Club graduate and an Equine Canada Level 1 certified coach. Dana is aiming for the Bromont CCI2* with FE Ophelia and Forever Young, both owned by Kingfisher Park, and hopes to represent Canada at the 2018 World Equestrian Games. Kingfisher Park is situated on 200 rolling acres of land north of Charlotte, NC. It is a popular venue for cross country schooling and host to clinics and schooling shows throughout the year. Click here to learn more.

Helmet Cam Alert! Ride Around Red Hills with Elisa Wallace

By on Mar 16, 2016 11:30 am -

Elisa Wallace wore her helmet cam for all three rides at the Red Hills International Horse Trials last weekend, which means we can get a look between the ears of three different courses on this dynamic track. Elisa finished 20th with Rolex-bound Simply Priceless in the CIC3*, 13th with Borneo Shady in the CIC*, and 13th in Open Preliminary with her Mustang power-mare Hwin.

Monday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Mar 14, 2016 12:50 am -
Photo via Will Faudree's Facebook page. Photo via Will Faudree's Facebook page.

While all eyes were on Red Hills this weekend, Will Faudree made his comeback at Southern Pines Horse Trials six months after having neck surgery to repair an injury sustained in a fall at Five Points Horse Trials. In his returning horse trials, Will competed four horses, winning both the Open Preliminary-A and B divisions with Pfun and Hans Dampf, respectively. He also finished third with Caeleste in Prelim-A and fifth with Socialite in Prelim-B. We’re thrilled to see Will back in the saddle and in such fine form!

U.S. Weekend Action:

Southern Pines H.T. [Results]

Full Gallop Farm March II H.T. [Results]

A recent study showed that horse riding promotes social development and builds character. The study involved more than 400 riders from adolescent teens to women in their mid-60s, and the results showed “clear interpersonal differences” between riders and non-riders finding that riders are determined, balanced and good leaders, among other things. Of course, we already knew this, right? [Horseback Riding Promotes Social Development and Builds Character]

The USEA’s popular Event College will return to Rolex Kentucky in 2016. Presented by the USEA Professional Horseman’s Council, the Event College is designed to educate the general public about the sport. Anyone can attend and “tuition” is free. [The Event College Returns to Rolex Kentucky]

Sophia Middlebrook bought her Paint gelding Sky Blue Dakota at an auction when they were both youngsters. “Spot” began his competitive career as a Western pleasure and halter horse. When he began eventing, Sophia figured “Spot” might make it to Training, but at this weekend’s Red Hills they completed the tough CIC* with no cross country jump penalties. [Pint-Sized Paint]

The 2016 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), just wrapped up week nine of competition. Reed Kessler and her London Olympics mount Cylana picked up their second victory of the $130,000 Ruby et Violette WEF Challenge Cup held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) in Wellington. Reed said the win was a relief after a difficult week 8. [Reed Kessler and Cyana Victorious]

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]

Do you know of a great local eventing organization? EN wants to show them some love! Email [email protected]and tell us about your local organization. We’re looking to spotlight associations that run low level and schooling horse trials in upcoming feature articles. Go Local Eventing!

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]

Cleverly disguised by an adorable Pocket dog title, here’s a behind the scenes look at the Red Hills vet box courtesy of Wallace Eventing, who produced daily vlogs from the event, which you can check out on their YouTube channel. 

Monday News and Notes from Smartpak

By on Mar 7, 2016 12:28 am -

USEF Eventing Selector Chairman, Robert Costello and Chevalier. Bobby and Charlie were 8th at the 2000 Olympic Games. Charlie, now 28, is living out his retirement in Southern Pines, NC Posted by USEF Eventing High Performance on Sunday, March 6, 2016

The horses in our lives are part of our hearts forever, as is clear from the above photo. Each animal in turn takes the chance to teach us and help us grow, both as riders and as individuals, through tragedy and triumph. After a weekend full of horsey happiness, maybe I’m feeling a little sentimental, but it’s a part of my life I wouldn’t trade for anything in the world.

U.S. Weekend Action:

Full Gallop Farm March I H.T. [Results]

Rocking Horse Winter III H.T. [Results]

Sporting Days Farm II H.T. [Results]

Twin Rivers Winter H.T. [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

In response to an unprecedented number of FEI entries at this year’s Carolina International and with the desire to accommodate all riders, an additional day of CIC 3*, 2* and 1* dressage will take place on Wednesday, March 23rd. No further FEI entries will be accepted after the event closing date of Tuesday, March 8th. However, they will continue to accept national horse trials entries after the closing date. [Carolina International]

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]

The Colorado Horse Park, site of the 2016 NAJYRC and soon the USEA AEC, has hit the ground running this season with planned improvements and increased competition opportunities under the new leadership of Meg Krueger. Upgrades will include improvements to the footing and rings, cross-country course and facility amenities as well as layout modifications to better direct the flow of both competitor and spectator traffic. [CHP Begins Year with Major Facility Upgrades]

Do you know of a great local eventing organization? EN wants to show them some love! Email [email protected]and tell us about your local organization. We’re looking to spotlight associations that run low level and schooling horse trials in upcoming feature articles. Go Local Eventing!

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]

Friday Video from World Equestrian Brands: Event Rider Masters Promo

By on Mar 4, 2016 5:00 pm -

The eventing community has been buzzing with excitement over the new Event Rider Masters Series kicking off this season, with £350,000 in prize money on the line and the opportunity to promote the sport to a new audience.

The series is said to packaged specifically for television, and this promo loop gives us an idea of the tone and style they’re going for, highlighting the thrill of the sport and the horses and riders as athletes.

The series gets underway at Chatsworth in May. Click here for more information.

Monday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Feb 29, 2016 12:10 am -

Watching Intermediate Cross country

Posted by Pine Top Eventing on Sunday, February 28, 2016

I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again. Going to a horse show is one of the best ways to get inspired to ride. I was back at Pine Top this weekend, and watching horses literally soar over the massive Hammocks that had everyone talking was exhilarating to say the least. Yet, I enjoyed that just as much as watching professionals pilot green horses confidently around their first Prelim course, and hearing young riders shout with elation at their steed as they conquered their fears over a particularly daunting looking Training table. What a wonderful way to spend the day!

U.S. Weekend Action:

Pine Top CIC & H.T. [Results]

Three Lakes at Caudle Ranch H.T. [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

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]

How often do you stand in the barn aisle, hemming and hawing about what clothes to put on your horse for the night? Well, hem and haw no more! The blanket experts at Horseware Ireland have developed an app to make those difficult blanketing decisions for you. Create a profile for each of your horses, inputting age, breed and whether or not they’re clipped, and the app will use that information along with the weather forecast to generate the best blanket options. The “Horseware Turnout Guide” is now available as a free download for iPhone in the iTunes App Store, and for Android in the Google Play Store.

Tickets are now on sale for Great Meadow International, the final outing for the U.S. Olympic Team before they travel to Rio for the Games. There are plenty of ticket options from car passes to tailgating spots to all out VIP packages. This isn’t just a competition – it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. [Get tickets here]

Four-time Olympian Blyth Tait is taking the next natural step in his storied career in eventing by taking up course design. The New Zealander will make his design debut at Burgham this year, laying out the BE90 and BE100 tracks. With Blyth’s decades of experience, it will be exciting to see what style of design he takes as his own. [Blyth Tait Makes Course Designing Debut]

Meanwhile at Three Lakes…

Posted by Hilda Donahue on Sunday, February 28, 2016

Equine Management Training Center Seeks to Raise Grooming Industry Standards

By on Feb 26, 2016 12:30 pm -
Super groom Max Corcoran and Mr. Medicott share a moment at the 2012 London Olympic Games. Photo by Erin Gilmore. Super groom Max Corcoran and Mr. Medicott share a moment at the 2012 London Olympic Games. Photo by Erin Gilmore.

A new training program offered through the Equine Management Training Center (EMTC) is taking groom and equine management education to the next level. EMTC has developed a comprehensive certification program imparting the knowledge and skills necessary to become a professional groom and stable manager.

For Program Director Suzanne Lacy, the goal is to raise the standard of grooming as an occupation. “The care of the horse is the crutch of the whole thing. The grooms do a lot more than just brush a horse,” she said. “They know that horse inside and out. That’s what I want to get out there. I want to raise the level of the way people think of a groom.”

Sam Burton Henley, the Program Administrator, met Suzanne while working as a groom for Karen and David O’Connor. “We’ve all heard David say it starts from the bottom in the barn. Attention to detail can make or break an entire program. We’re trying to increase the standard from the ground up.”

Sam said that EMTC wants to train professional grooms who can manage a 40-stall barn or get on a plane to go to Burghely their first day on the job. “Hearing things like ‘just a groom’ is the biggest insult in the world. What they do is invaluable. They know the ins and outs of every facility, how to set up nutrition and fitness programs, everything from A to Z.”

Currently, EMTC offers two types of educational opportunities for working and aspiring grooms. Continuing education two-day clinics can give any working student or groom an extra edge when it comes to caring for horses. Sponsors eager to support the program are also providing products and lecture topics to better educate the participants in the current technologies and techniques of horse care.

Sam and Cat Hill, co-author of World Class Grooming for Horses, will offer an informative up-to-date approach to horse care and grooming March 7-9 at Jane Jennings High Valley Farm South in Aiken, South Carolina. The next weekend clinic will be March 19-20 in Reddick, Florida, to be taught by Sam and Max Corcoran at Southern Cross Equestrian.

EMTC also offers two comprehensive 8-week courses that include internships and guaranteed job placement at the conclusion of the course. The first session beginning April 4, 2016 is a program entitled Equine Management. After four weeks of training in topics like biology, nutrition and basic vet care, students will get hands-on experience as an intern at a participating professional barn before they are placed in jobs as a certified Basic Groom.

The second session, Stable Management, is scheduled to begin August 4, 2016 and will cover health, rehabilitation, record keeping, groundwork and more. After this four-week session and a subsequent internship, students will graduate the program as an Elite Groom.

Three $500 scholarships are currently available to students entering the 8-week programs. To be eligible, you must be one of the first three students to complete the application, request a scholarship and pay the tuition balance in full.

Both Sam and Suzanne report that the feedback from industry professionals — riders, grooms and stable managers alike — has been overwhelmingly positive. There is a recognized need for a comprehensive education and higher standard for career grooms. “We’ve been getting calls asking if we have any graduates yet. People are looking for trained professionals to work for them,” Sam said.

There are additional benefits for graduates besides the high appeal of guaranteed employment. EMTC is working directly with the Professional Riders Organization, and once a student has completed the program, they will be listed as a groom on the PRO directory and are eligible for PRO’s health insurance.

“We’re trying to improve the standard of grooms and the way of life for grooms. We want to have them acknowledged as true professionals in the horse world. The opportunities are endless once you get your feet in the door,” Sam said.

Suzanne is also working to partner with a local college to offer stamped certifications for program graduates. Ultimately, she hopes one day there will be a certification requirement for working grooms in the U.S.

“We’re planting our little seed right now to grow it so that we have a pool to draw from of certified grooms,” Suzanne said. “Once that pool is large enough, our professionals who are supporting this will have a place to go and get certified grooms with the same background and knowledge. … Who wouldn’t want an Emma (Ford) in their barn, right?”

For more information about the Equine Management Training Center, two-day clinics and the extended training sessions, visit www.eqmtc.com. You can also follow EMTC on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Pine Top CIC3* Cross Country Course Walk

By on Feb 26, 2016 9:00 am -
12 - Popular Open Oxer 12 - Popular Open Oxer

We’ve finally arrived at the inaugural CIC3* at the ever popular Pine Top Advanced Horse Trials. I hurried into town last evening just in time to take a quick tour of the cross country course as the light began to fade.

In the style we’ve come to expect from Pine Top, the jumps are tall, the tables wide (very wide) and immaculately presented. You won’t find picnic place settings and wood-carved forest friends here — the jumps are solid and natural looking with tactful decor.

Another staple of Pine Top cross country is the clever use of terrain, and this track is no exception. I have a sneaking suspicion that time will be a major factor today. It’s a 6 minute, 5 second course with 19 numbered jumps and 34 efforts. The Advanced track is very similar to the CIC3*, save some technical elements.

While I only shot pictures of the three-star fences, I kept an eye on the CIC1*/2* and national division courses as I went around, and they are certainly nothing to sneeze at. Across the board, this will be a strong test for competitors.

Huge props and sincere thanks to organizers Glenn and Janet Wilson, course designers Derek di Grazia (FEI, A, I, P) and Jeff Kibbie (Training), and the builders and course prep crew including Rob Mobley, Steve Terry and Jamie Gornall, along with the rest of the Pine Top team for all their hard work and dedication. We’re looking forward to a great weekend!

All three FEI divisions will run as a one-day today, so keep an eye on the live scores here and we’ll be back with pictures and a full report at the conclusion.

Pine Top CIC & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Monday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Feb 22, 2016 5:07 am -
Carrie Wehle asks, Carrie Wehle asks," What do you do on a nice warm day in Aiken?"

There was that one weekend we had a bit of ice and a dusting of snow, and another few days where I threw a blanket on the old man at night, but for the most part it’s been a fairly mild winter in my neck of the woods. One thing I could definitely do without, though, is the mud. It’s fun to stomp around in for a few days, but rubber boots aren’t exactly the most comfortable all-day footwear. Then again, I don’t expect the youngsters to ever have any qualms with water jumps and dodgy footing.

U.S. Weekend Action:

Rocking Horse Winter II H.T. [Results]

Paradise Farm H.T. [Results]

Fresno County Horse Park CIC & H.T. [Results]

“Riders and horses were waiting to enter the arena in order to show their hunter-jumper skills from simply walking, trotting, cantering to jumping over obstacles. The ladies from Take Flight Academy were among these equestrians and they are a group of terrific girls who support and cheer for each other.” [Elena Maas: Portrait of a Schooling Show]

Scott Keach may be a top show jumper but his name is not unfamiliar in eventing. An event rider who represented Australia at both the Olympic Games and World Equestrian Games in the ’80s, Scott has since found his way to the Grand Prix show jumping ring. This weekend, Scott topped the $100,000 City of Ocala Grand Prix with an 11-year-old Belgium Warmblood named Fedor, with whom he is preparing to return to the Olympic Games in a new discipline. [Fedor Finds His Rhythm]

An Australian researcher counted the number of eventing rider deaths that have been reported since 1993 and explored obstacles to risk calculation which she published in a journal called Animals. The researcher, Denzil O’Brien, feels that a system should be established to record all falls of horse and rider at every event around the world, the circumstances of which could be analyzed to possibly reduce the risk of falls in the future. [Rider Deaths Identified in Eventing]

The Time to Ride Challenge has introduced more than 60,000 people to horses through beginner-friendly equine experiences since the program’s inception in 2014. The challenge incentivizes horse-related businesses and organizations to focus on outreach for new participants and offers $100,000 in cash and prizes. [Time to Ride Challenge returns with new incentives]

Interested in Becoming a Licensed Eventing Judge or TD? The B & C Jumping Training Program for prospective “r” Eventing Judges and “r” TDs will be conducted April 15-17, 2016 during the Ocala Horse Properties International 3-Day Festival of Eventing in Ocala, Florida. Auditors are welcome to observe and learn as well. [More Info]

New Lower Level Eventing Challenge Comes to the Carolinas

By on Feb 21, 2016 11:30 am -
Hailey Rowe and Whinney The Pooh at the 2014 Heart of the Carolinas Beginner Novice Three-Day. Photo by Brena Jones. Hailey Rowe and Whinney The Pooh at the 2014 Heart of the Carolinas Beginner Novice Three-Day. Photo by Brena Jones.

The Carolina Horse Park and the Heart of the Carolinas Three-Day Event (HOTC) at Southern Eighths Farm have partnered to bring a new eventing series to the area this spring. The Carolina Eventing Challenge (CEC) is open to all riders from the Beginner Novice through Preliminary level, and a grand prize for each level will be awarded at the final, which will take place at the Heart of the Carolinas Three-Day Event in May.

Marc Donovan, a member of the organizing committee at the Carolina Horse Park, came up with the idea of a Carolinas eventing series and approached Cindy Deporter, co-organizer at HOTC, about working together to bring the idea to fruition.

“We’re excited to partner with the Carolina Horse Park on this series,” Cindy said. “This will be a great challenge for riders competing at the Preliminary level and below and an opportunity to showcase two special venues in the Carolinas.”

The CEC includes three events: Southern Pines Horse Trials, March 12-13; Longleaf Pine Horse Trials, April 23-24; and Heart of the Carolinas Three-Day Event, May 4-8. In order to qualify for the Challenge, a horse and rider combination must complete two of the three competitions, and are required to compete in the final at HOTC.

Heart of the Carolinas is known for being the only venue in the country where Beginner Novice, Novice and Training level riders can negotiate their ultimate test in a USEA recognized Training Three-Day, Novice Three-Day and Beginner Novice Three-Day event, and that unique characteristic will be highlighted in the new CEC. Riders competing in the final at HOTC must compete in one of the long-format divisions to be eligible for the grand prize.

Those horses and riders competing in the CEC at the Preliminary level will not be required to compete in a long-format competition but instead prepare themselves to compete in a derby style finale as part of the Preliminary Combined Test at HOTC. Preliminary riders may qualify for the Challenge by competing in either the horse trials or combined tests at the designated Carolina Horse Park events, but the series finale at the HOTC will be formatted similar to an eventing derby, with the show jumping course including both stadium and cross country type obstacles.

Sign up at each event is required for scores to be counted, so look for the CEC flyer in your rider packet at the designated events or download it here. The riders with the lowest combined two scores at each level will be the winners.

Series rules and additional information is available on the Heart of the Carolinas Omnibus page.

Saturday Video: ‘The Equestrians’ Series Teaser

By on Feb 20, 2016 4:00 pm -

The Equestrians is an exciting video project that will explore the unique partnership between horses and humans. According to the series website, the goal of the eight-part series is to increase the public’s understanding of and appreciation for the horse world, bring attention to the number of unwanted and neglected horses and increase support for horse rescue organizations and therapeutic riding centers.

With each episode revolving around a central theme, The Equestrians will feature interviews with well-known figures in the equestrian world as well as those who keep the machine moving behind the scenes like grooms, farriers and others. The series will tackle everything from fashion to slaughter to diversity within the sport and much more!

Learn more about The Equestrians here and stay tuned as we anxiously await details on the series’ release!

Horse Sport Ireland Announces Rio Eventing Squad

By on Feb 20, 2016 2:00 pm -
Clare Abbott and Euro Prince at the 2014 World Equestrian Games. Photo by Jenni Autry. Clare Abbott and Euro Prince at the 2014 World Equestrian Games. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Horse Sport Ireland announced this week the short list of horses and riders from which the 2016 Rio Olympics Irish Eventing Team will be selected.

The current Rio Eventing Squad is:

1. Austin O’ Connor with Balham Houdini and Kilpatrick Knight

Kilpatrick Knight is a 2005 ISH gelding by Master Imp (TB) out of Golden Choice (ISH) by Golden Trump (ID). Breeder: Joan J Dolan. Owner: Mrs W Foster.

Balham Houdini is a 2004 ISH gelding by Warrenstown You 2 (ISH) out of Mimi (ISH) by Hallo (SF). Breeder: Ronan Tynan. Owners: Austin O’Connor and Kate Jarvey.

2. Joseph Murphy with Westwinds Hercules and Sportsfield Othello

Westwinds Hercules is a 2005 ISH gelding by Ramiro B (BWP) out of Westwinds Clover (ISH) by Porter Rhodes (TB). Breeder: Alice Keogh. Owners: Alison Schmutz and Andrew Tinkler

Sportsfield Othello is a 2001 ISH Gelding by Ricardo Z (ZANG) out of Moy View Lady (ISH) by Ring of Ford (TB). Breeder: John Kenny. Owners: Jill Murphy, Alison Schmutz and Andrew Tinkler

3. Aoife Clark with Fernhill Adventure and Wasting Light

Fernhill Adventure is a 2006 ISH gelding by Newmarket Venture out of Cloverwood, by Cloverhill. Breeder: Mary Quinlivan. Owner: Richard Last.

Wasting Light is a 2007 ISH gelding by Ghareeb (TB) out of Barnview Diamond (ISH) by Furisto’s Diamond (ISH) Breeder: Patrick Jones (Wexford). Owners: John Forde and Cressida Legge

4. Clare Abbott with Euro Prince

Euro Prince is a 2003 ISH gelding by Lougheries Quiet Man (UNK) out of Miss Tullydraw. (UNK). Breeder & Owner: Dr. Cormac McKay.

5. Sam Watson with Horseware Lukeswell

Horseware Lukeswell is a 2005 ISH gelding by Puissance (ISH) out of Gentle Servant (ISH) by Kings Servant (ISH). Breeder: Teresa Walsh. Owners: Sam Watson and Horseware Products Ltd.

6. Jonty Evans with Cooley Rorkes Drift

Cooley Rorkes Drift is a 2006 ISH gelding by Courage II out of Doon-A-Ree-Lass, by Rachelle Comet. Breeder: William McCarrison. Owner: Fiona Elliot.

7. Mark Kyle with Jemilla

Jemilla is a 2006 SHBGB mare by Mill Law out of Jessica XIX by Louella Moschallah. Breeder: Mrs S Morley. Owner: Shelagh Moorley.

8. Cathal Daniels with Rioghan Rua

Rioghan Rua is a 2007 ISH mare by Jack Of Diamonds (SWB) out of Highland Destiny (ISH), by Flagmount King (ID). Breeder & Owner: Margaret Kinsella, Co. Galway.

9. Padraig McCarthy with Simon Porloe

Simon Porloe is a 2000 PZHK gelding by Sofix out of Babilonia by Czubaryk. Breeder: SK Nowa Wioska. Owners: Christopher & Sarita Perkins

10. Michael Ryan with Ballylynch Adventure and Dunlough Striker

Ballylynch Adventure is a 2000 ISH gelding by Don Juan De La Bouverie (SBS) out of Stanman Girl (TB), by Standaan (TB). Breeder: John B Hughes, Co. Meath. Owners: Carol and Tom Henry and Sheila Foley.

Dun Lough Striker is a 2005 ISH gelding by Maltstriker (KWPN out of Beau Rud (ISH) by Beau Royal (TB). Breeder: Kevin Nolan. Owner: Carol Henry.

[Current Rio Eventing Squad]

Who Jumped It Best? Pine Top ‘Wiggly Log Brush’ Edition

By on Feb 20, 2016 12:00 pm -

Pine Top Farm’s winter/spring season got underway last weekend in Thomson, Ga. The cross country course, designed by Derek di Grazia and Jeff Kibbie and built by Rob Mobley, was beautifully presented. There were several new fences unveiled on the horse trials courses, and with preparations underway for the Pine Top Advanced event next weekend, we got a sneak peak at what we can look forward to then as well.

We saw quite a lot of good riding at Pine Top, and the Junior Training riders were especially impressive over this imposing looking but cutely named “Wiggly Log Brush.” Check out these four pictures from Mark Lehner of Hoofclix, and choose which horse and rider pair you think display the best overall image. For full results of the Pine Top Intermediate Horse Trials, click here, and for more photos from Hoofclix, click here.

Olivia Dutton and Santa's Playboy. Photo by Hoofclix.com.

Olivia Dutton and Santa’s Playboy. Photo by Hoofclix.com.

Alexa Gartenberg and Patras VR. Photo by Hoofclix.com.

Alexa Gartenberg and Patras VR. Photo by Hoofclix.com.

Makenna Rold and Fernhill Choc. Photo by Hoofclix.com.

Makenna Rold and Fernhill Choc. Photo by Hoofclix.com.

Alice Roosevelt and Get It Together. Photo by Hoofclix.com.

Alice Roosevelt and Get It Together. Photo by Hoofclix.com.

[socialpoll id=”2334431″]

Producing Young Event Horses: 4 Questions with Kai-Steffen Meier

By on Feb 16, 2016 9:30 am -
Kai-Steffen Meier and TSF Karascada M at Badminton 2014. Photo by Jenni Autry. Kai-Steffen Meier and TSF Karascada M at Badminton 2014. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kai-Steffen Meier is a four-star German team rider with an impressive reputation for producing young event horses, finding consistent success at the Bundeschampionat in Germany and the FEI World Breeding Eventing Championships for Young Horses at Le Lion d’Angers in France.

He has been invited to the upcoming USEA Evaluation of the Young Event Horse Symposium in Ocala, Florida as a clinician and will teach in the classroom sessions as well as give instruction from the saddle during live demonstrations.

If you’re at all interested in breeding and riding young event horses, check out EN’s preview of the Feb. 22-23 USEA Young Horse Symposium here and get more information about the schedule and registration here.

EN caught up with Kai to get a behind-the-scenes look at what we can expect to see from him at the symposium.

EN: What do you plan to discuss and teach in the classroom sessions, and what sorts of qualities will you focus on during the riding sessions?

Kai-Steffen Meier: “I’ll explain the German system of Bundeschampionat, how to qualify, the horses needed as well as the training way to bring them there. I’ll try to compare the German system with the U.S. system and to find the significant differences and their pros and cons. During the riding session I will show ideas and exercises for how to train young event horses but also explain what a future event horse should have regarding natural talent.”

EN: What are the most important focal points of developing young horses for eventing? What are the primary qualities your successful young horses have shared?

Kai-Steffen Meier: “For me the most important things are a good canter, a good jump and a good head. Especially the mentality of the horse is very important, as a horse which is willing to learn and has fun doing its job will, at the end, be a good pupil and will be much more easy to build up. Another aspect for sure is the conformation of a horse; the better it is built, the easier it is to work. Although you always should keep in mind ‘they win in all shapes.'”

EN: What do you believe makes the German system for developing young horses for eventing so successful, and what are the real benefits of championships like the Bundeschampionat?

Kai-Steffen Meier: “The biggest advantage are the so called ‘Gelaendepferde.’ These are classes for 4- to 6-year-old horses where they do a short cross country (approximately three to four minutes). They can run more often, they learn fast to go to shows and tackle new tracks and challenges.

“The level of difficulty grows over the season, and the best ones finally compete at the Bundeschampionat, where they have to run some very big courses already, so its not only about winning or top 10 finishes. All my horses which competed at the Bundeschampionat grew up over the season and made their final exam at Warendorf, so it has always a big educational value.”

EN: What sort of advice would you offer to breeders and riders attempting to bring up successful young event horses?

Kai-Steffen Meier: “I think it’s very important to start the horses early enough in their work. We start with our 4-year-olds already with some small competitions in spring before they have a little holiday and then come back for a second half of a season from mid-August to the end of September. Like that we have a lot of time to play with them, to school them cross country and to get them used to traveling to shows and just let them grow up.

“Time is a major factor as every horse develops differently, and if you start them early enough you can give them the time they need. Some are ready to go when they just got 5 years old, others need until they are 6 years old to learn all the skills needed. For me this is not really a question of quality; I had horses which were real super stars as 5 and 6 years old while others just went to shows with average results and as a 7 or 8 year old they could put everything together and were just amazing.”

If you missed Maren Engelhardt’s excellent EN series explaining the Bundeschampionat, be sure to check out the links below!

Bundeschampionat 2015: An Intro to Germany’s Young Horse Championships

Bundeschampionat 2015: Meet the German Young Event Horse Champions

Bundeschampionat 2015: Comparing German & U.S. Young Horse Programs

Monday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Feb 15, 2016 12:53 am -

These jump judges have found a comfy spot on the ground under a warm blanket!

Posted by Pine Top Eventing on Sunday, February 14, 2016

Pine Top is one of my favorite events and a great place to start off the year. I’m delighted for Erin that they’ve had some warm days out West, but all of us in Georgia bundled up until we could barely move through all the layers. Yet the sun was out, the horses were feeling fresh and we’re all definitely looking forward to the Advanced horse trials in two weeks when Pine Top will debut their CIC3*. The Wilsons put on a great event and make everyone feel part of the family!

U.S. Weekend Action:

Full Gallop Farm February H.T. [Results]

Ocala Winter II H.T. [Results]

Pine Top Intermediate H.T. [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

The first formal invitations have been sent out for the FEI Eventing Nations Cup at Great Meadow International in The Plains, Virginia this summer. This will be the first Nations Cup to take place in the States and will also be the final outing for the U.S. Olympic Team before they head to Rio. [Great Meadow International Sends First Round of Invitations]

The Carolina International Horse Trials is officially open to accept entries. Doug Payne, who is on the Board for the competition, is looking forward to the event unveiling some exciting changes and additions this year. In short, expect new courses, live streaming with great commentary and a party you don’t want to miss. [2016 Carolina International is Open!]

A racetrack in New Mexico has suffered an outbreak of equine herpesvirus. The number of affected horses has steadily climbed over the last several days and the latest tally shows 66 horses being ill. [Number of horses affected by EHV-1 at New Mexico racetrack stands at 66]

Laura Graves and Verdades have come out swinging in 2016, picking up two wins last week at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival in Palm Beach. Their longtime partnership was evident, but critics (and Laura) agree that although they won, there are many points left to be had. [Graves and Verdades Go Two for Two]

Monday Video: A peek at some of today’s cross country at Pine Top.

Atlanta Euthanized Following Injury on Cross Country at Ocala Horse Trials

By on Feb 12, 2016 6:06 pm -
Juan Larrazabal and Atlanta at Pine Top 2015. Photo by Hoofclix.com. Juan Larrazabal and Atlanta at Pine Top 2015. Photo by Hoofclix.com.

We are saddened to learn that Atlanta, an 8-year-old Argentinian Sport Horse owned and ridden by Juan Larrazabal, was euthanized today after breaking his leg on cross country while competing in the Open Intermediate-B division at the Ocala Horse Properties Winter II Horse Trials.

According to the press release posted on the USEA website this afternoon, “Atlanta was immediately attended to by the on-site veterinary team, and it was decided that it was in his best interest to be humanely euthanized.”

Juan brought Atlanta up from Novice to the two-star level. Last year they completed the CIC2* at Pine Top and were 28th at the 2015 Jersey Fresh International CCI2*. Together, they represented Venezuela at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto.

EN extends our sincerest condolences to Juan and all those who loved Atlanta.

[Atlanta (2008-2016)]