Leslie Threlkeld

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The Eventing Family Honors Riders Through Fundraising for Health Research

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 16, 2015 1:00 pm -

The worldwide eventing community is a tight-knit family that not only supports one another at the sporting level but frequently comes together to lift up fellow eventers in need. The Eventing Family is a community group in the UK formed by Aaron Millar with support from Helen West, Beccy Barrett, Alex Jackson, Sophie Richardson and Andrew Fell. The purpose of the group is to take positive action to help members of their eventing family overcome illness and injury.

Through an upcoming charity fundraising event and an online auction, The Eventing Family is raising funds for four charities, each linked to a member of the eventing community battling a related disease. Those charities are the Motor Neurone Disease Association, Cancer Research UK, Teenage Cancer Trust and Spinal Research. It was requested that The Eventing Family support these specific causes by the following individuals:

Pat West: She is an eventing mom who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in September 2014. It is a rare condition and there is currently no cure.

Ben Hobday: He is an upper-level event rider and popular personality on social media. He announced he was diagnosed with cancer earlier this summer and the 27-year-old has been undergoing chemotherapy.

Hannah Francis: She is a 17-year-old eventer who was diagnosed with a type of bone cancer called osteosarcoma in May of this year. She has shown immeasurable bravery throughout this difficult ordeal and has been documenting her progress with help from her trusty sidekick Willberry Wonder Pony on Instagram and Twitter.

Jemina Green: She is a lifelong horsewoman who has been learning to live with a spinal injury since she was involved in a terrible car accident earlier this year. She is currently confined to a wheelchair, yet she is determined to get back in the saddle. The Eventing Family’s founder Aaron Miller was also involved in the crash.

The charity fundraising event will take place Saturday, August 22 at the Bicton Arena International Horse Trials in the UK. The party will feature a live auction, dinner, dancing and music from Joey the Lips. If you’re in the area, tickets are still available for purchase.

The online auction is now open with some incredible items up for bid including visits to top riders’ yards, stud fees, BE event entries, vacations, coaching and more. See a full list of the online and live auction items here. The online auction will be open until Sunday, August 23.

Many of the items in the online auction are obviously intended for local bids, but The Eventing Family said if you are interested in a specific prize and do not live in the UK, contact The Eventing Family directly for more information.

The Eventing Family is a brilliant organization that has found a way to support members of the community when they need it most. You can find The Eventing Family on Facebook and Twitter or visit their website. Direct donations may also be made to The Eventing Family at this link.

Behind the Mic with Brian O’Connor

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 16, 2015 9:00 am -

Eventing takes a village, and some of the individuals critical to the success of the sport may not necessarily get the recognition they deserve. In this new series, we will highlight unsung heroes and their commitment to the sport. If you would like to nominate someone for the series, email [email protected].

Brian O’Connor at a Fair Hill horse inspection. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Brian O’Connor was born to be an entertainer, and although he studied to be a theatre actor and has performed in professional singing groups, most of us know him as the voice ringing out over the loudspeaker at horse trials around the country. Here at EN, we love his humorous blogs and videos created during his travels.

Brian spent his adolescence competing in eventing, but his career as a full-time event announcer was unplanned. After high school, he took a gap year in England, working at a theatre in London and falling in love with the arts. When he came home he enrolled in Catholic University and received his undergraduate degree in acting.

Horses had been absent from Brian’s life while he attended school and started his acting career. It wasn’t until he was offered a gig announcing at a local Pony Club show that his future was written in the arena sand.

“Falling back into the horse world was fun for me. I settled back in and there were people who I rode with and against (as a kid) who were then becoming the next superstars,” Brian said. “My knowledge of the sport and my voice training and personality was a great meld. It wasn’t a career choice to go into announcing. I accidentally fell into it,” Brian said.

Captain of the Ship

After the Pony Club show Brian, who was living and performing in Washington DC, started announcing to supplement his income from acting. He worked with Nigel Casserly for a few years before going full time and starting his own company, SpeakEasy Ltd., in 1987.

He still gets his theatre fix during the Christmas holidays when there are no events running. Instead of acting, he has turned to directing, which he said is one of the most rewarding things he’s ever done in theatre. As it turns out, theatre and show announcing complement each other well.

“Personality-wise it’s perfect for me. I’m very much an a-type of personality. What I do in the horse world is very much like a director in addition to announcing. A lot of people call upon me to help them run these shows.”

At events, Brian is not just ‘the voice’; he almost always sets up the sound system around the venue and doubles as controller on cross country day in addition to announcing. He’s the whole package, and he prefers it that way.

“People look for a captain when you’re driving a big ship like an event. That’s one of the personas I take over. It doesn’t happen at every event, but it happens at most events. That’s why I do what I do,” he said.

Brian O’Connor keeping an eye on the action. Photo by Eric Swinebroad.

The Evolution of Event Announcing

Nowadays we can keep up with the action and hear important announcements whether we are on course or in the barns. That is because there are usually speakers set up in every corner of the property and a knowledgeable announcer tethered to his walkie talkie and a microphone. But we weren’t always so spoiled with fancy set-ups. In the early days of horse trials, communications were a bit more complicated.

“When I was a Pony Clubber, they used to call the local Army Guard and they would come out and lay all those phone cables for the old field radios,” Brian said. “They enjoyed doing it because it became a field exercise for them. They didn’t know anything about the horses.”

Their instructions were to call in “rider X clear fence X” and if something happened, call it in and wait for a callback. These field operations were good practice using the same equipment used during service to the community in the event of national disasters. “They became part of the incantation of how we do radios.”

As technology improved, CB radios were used and amateur (ham) radio operators were also called in to help run communications at events. Today, Brian says he’s hired as much for his voice as his toys. He provides the speakers and radios and has his truck rigged so that the microphone is activated when he presses on the foot pedal.

When Brian started in the business of announcing, he knew about sound technology from theatre, but there was a learning curve when it came to PA systems. Today, one of Brian’s biggest jobs of the year is setting up the PA system and headset commentary at Rolex Kentucky.

Brian runs control and has been providing the PA system and sound for the past three years and knows that demands will increase as the course changes and new areas are used. It is a huge challenge but one Brian says he and his great crew are willing to tackle.

“Being at our Superbowl of U.S. eventing is an honor and a thrill. My family has over 100 years of participation at Rolex – myself, David, Karen, Suzanne, Ian, and of course Sally.”

Brian competing in a stick horse challenge at Sharon White's JUMP! Photo by Phyllis Dawson.

Brian and his horse Sydney at Sharon White’s JUMP! in 2014. Photo by Phyllis Dawson.

Equal Parts Entertainment and Information

As an announcer, Brian considers his job to be equal parts entertainment and information. “You want to make it interesting for new people coming out – we’re always looking for new sponsors and spectators. You’re also making it informative not only for those people but also the riders, parents and grooms back at the start box or the barns. They rely on knowing what’s going on.”

So consider Brian a cheerleader for the sport and the people who participate in it, in addition to many other hats he wears. For years, Brian has watched horses and riders progress through the ranks, and his knowledge of those individuals and their successes and hardships gives him unique perspective as an announcer.

He finds other ways to add flair to his work as well. One year he rode in a Novice derby as part of Sharon White’s JUMP fundraiser. This year at Rolex, he rode a Pony Club pony around the show jumping track with designer Richard Jeffery, explaining the different challenges the competitors would face and discussing the intriguing history of each fence.

Brian would like more saddle time, but considering he works 35 horse trials or dressage shows a year, it is difficult to find the time. Lucky for us, he won’t be unplugging his microphone any time soon (unless he wins the lottery) and will stay “on tour” for the foreseeable future.

He may have accidentally fallen into his career as an announcer, but he’s embraced it and carved out an important role in the sport. After all, we know his voice when we hear it.

For more insanity in the middle from Brian, check out his YouTube channel for more gems like this one, and stay tuned for another interview where the O’Connors and I talk about their horseback ride across America!

Ocala Jockey Club to Build New World-Class Eventing Facility

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 15, 2015 5:00 pm -

The clubhouse at the Ocala Jockey Club overlooks the future cross country water complex and stadium course. Photo via Ocala Horse Properties

Equiventures and Ocala Horse Properties have announced the exciting news that they will partner with the Ocala Jockey Club to create a new world-class eventing facility in Ocala, as well as expand the popular Ocala Eventing Series. Ocala Horse Properties has been the title sponsor for the Ocala Eventing Series at the Florida Horse Park for the last four years and not only signed on once again this year, but doubled its financial support.

The Ocala Jockey Club is a 950-acre property featuring multiple training barns, a Thoroughbred training track, rental homes and a 9700-square foot restaurant and event facility. Construction on the new eventing facility will begin in September 2015, and the property’s rolling hills will soon boast a top quality cross country course designed by Mike Etherington-Smith. Richard Jeffery will be the consultant and course designer for the stadium arena and courses.

“Ocala based competitors have for some time requested additional venues in our area, and with the growing numbers at each event, the time was perfect for the owners of the Ocala Jockey Club to show an interest in hosting some high-caliber competitions,” Equiventures CEO Richard Trayford said in a statement.

“Equiventures is delighted to have been given the task of organizing these events and feel that the Ocala Jockey Club along with the Florida Horse Park will provide ideal venues for competitors of all levels. Ocala is well known for having the perfect climate for fall, winter and spring events. Thanks to the support of the area’s leading horse property experts, we are able to get a jump on preparations for next season!”

We’re thrilled to have the Ocala Jockey Club on board to expand eventing in the region and look forward to watching the facility develop. Thank you to Ocala Horse Properties for their continued support of eventing. Anyone with questions or seeking more information can contact Richard at 352-425-7709.

[Ocala Eventing Series: New World Class Location and Doubled Sponsor Support]

William Fox-Pitt and Bay My Hero Win Hartpury CIC3*

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 15, 2015 3:00 pm -

William Fox-Pitt and Bay My Hero. Photo by Jenni Autry.

William Fox-Pitt and Bay My Hero at Rolex. Photo by Jenni Autry.

William Fox-Pitt and 2014 Rolex Kentucky winner Bay My Hero won the 90-horse Superflex CIC3* division at the NAF International Hartpury Horse Trials in Gloucestershire, UK today. The experienced combination took an early lead with a 37.1 dressage score followed by a double-clear show jumping round. Yesterday’s rain gave way to “glorious sunshine” today, and William and “Moonie” made quick work of the the Eric Winter designed cross country course, adding only 0.8 time penalties to secure the win.

Hartpury served as a prep event for next month’s Burghley CCI4* for a number of competitors. William, who was also fifth with Luxury FH and seventh with Fernhill Pimms in the CIC3*, has both Catherine Witt’s Bay My Hero and Fernhill Pimms, owned by Catherine Witt and Carol Gee, entered at Burghley.

Sarah Bullimore and Reve du Rouet produced one of only four double-clear cross country rounds in the division to move up to second place, finishing on their dressage score of 40.4. Sarah and the 11-year-old Oldenburg gelding owned by Christopher Gillespie and Brett Bullimore are also entered at Burghley.

Ibby MacPherson and her own Ballingowan Diamond rounded out the top three in the Hartpury CIC3* having added only 1.2 time penalties to their dressage score of 41.9. Britain-based U.S. rider Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp was second after dressage with Fernhill By Night on a 38.9. One rail in show jumping and 4.4 time penalties across the country resulted in an 8th place finish.

Click here to see full results of the division.

Thanks to our friends at CrossCountry App, we can also take a walk around Eric Winter’s course! Check out the interactive map below or click here.

Germany Names Team for Blair Castle European Championships

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 15, 2015 1:00 pm -

The German Olympic Committee has named the team participants for the 2015 Longines FEI European Eventing Championships at Blair Castle, September 10-15.

Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Louvo. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The German Olympic Committee has named the team participants for the 2015 Longines FEI European Eventing Championships at Blair Castle, September 10-15.

The following athlete-and-horse combinations have been named to the German squad for the European Championships (in alphabetical order):

Sandra Auffarth with Opgun Louvo
Michael Jung with fischerTakinou or Halunke FBW
Bettina Hoy with Designer 10
Ingrid Klimke with Horseware Hale Bob or FRH Escada JS
Dirk Schrade with Hop and Skip
Peter Thomsen with Horseware’s Barny

The following athlete-and-horse combinations have been named as reserves in the following order:

Andreas Dibowski with FRH Butts Avedon
Niklas Bschorer with Tom Tom Go
Claas Hermann Romeike with Cato

All of the above combinations competed at the Nations Cup in Aachen this week, where Germany won the team competition. Individually, Ingrid finished first and second with FRH Escada JS and Horseware Hale Bob, respectively. 2014 WEG gold medalists Sandra and Opgun Louvo finished third. Michael was fifth with fischerTakinou, and Bettina, Dirk and Peter finished in the top 13.

[Germany Names European Championships Eventing Squad]

Missing Person: National Park Service Seeks Info On Ritchard Temple

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 15, 2015 10:00 am -

Photo via the National Park Service

Ritchard Temple, a valued and longstanding member of the eventing community, went missing while hiking on the C&O Canal’s towpath, and the National Park Service is looking for any information that may help locate him.

According to an NPS press release, Ritch began hiking the towpath from the Harper’s Ferry area and traveled west towards Cumberland, MD. It is believed he was heading back towards Harper’s Ferry when communications with him were lost.

He last communicated with his family on July 25, 2015. It is believed he was in the Town Creek area of the park at that time, approximately five miles east of Oldtown, MD, and may have camped at the park’s Town Creek hiker/biker campsite.

Ritch is a white male in his early 50’s, approximately 6’0″ tall and 200 pounds. He has blue eyes, blonde/gray hair and wears glasses. He uses a cane and walks with a limp. He also has limited use of his right arm.

If you have any information on the whereabouts of Ritchard Temple or had any communications with him while he was hiking the trail please call the National Park Service communication center at 301-714-2235.

Ritch has been a member of the eventing community for more than 30 years as a competitor, course designer, “R” Technical Delegate and event organizer. He was instrumental in the development of the venue at Chattahoochee Hills and was the director and course designer of the American Eventing Championships there in 2010 and 2011. He also designed the courses for the Maui Jim Horse Trials and the AEC at Lamplight Equestrian Center 2007-2009.

Our thoughts are with Ritch’s friends and family during this difficult time.

Photo via the National Park Service

Aachen Cross Country Social Media Roundup

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 14, 2015 8:00 pm -

After a whirlwind couple of hours, the only word I could come up with at the end of the Aachen CICO3* cross country was “bananas.” The problems started early on course and it felt like clear rounds were few and far between. In the end, Ingrid Klimke gave us the master class with two double-clear rounds for a first and second place finish. Phillip Dutton brought home the third U.S. team score under pressure, and a late ruling by the officials resulted America’s move up to a third place finish. Despite the problems, social media was teeming with positivity, enthusiasm and admiration for the horse and rider combinations that tackled the course today. Let’s take a look.

#Aachen2015: Website, Ride Times, Live Scores, Team Scores, XC Order of Go, XC Live Stream, Schedule, Aachen Preview, Course Preview, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Ingrid is amazing to watch. Im in love with and scared of her in equal measure.

— Eventing Consultant (@EventingConsult) August 14, 2015

So are we, friend. So are we.

In case u were wondering how to ride cross country. Klimke just showed you — Steph Rhodes Bosch (@SRBequestrian) August 14, 2015

Don’t worry, there will be replays. And a helmet cam.

Mark Todd, horseman of the Century, rode to the third last like a 12 yo pony clubber, heels, elbows, stick all flapping for take off

— Christopher MR Stone (@ChristopherMRSt) August 14, 2015

#getitdone

@eventingnation I almost can’t watch, yet I can’t look away!!! — Courtney Lee (@CCarson0226) August 14, 2015

We sympathize completely, Courtney!

@eventingnation What a mare! What a ride! So proud and happy for them! @laurenkieffer

— D.LeeArt (@DLeeStudio) August 14, 2015

@eventingnation he makes the tractors and coffin look like a schooling grid #themaster — Courtney Lee (@CCarson0226) August 14, 2015

Tough luck for 21-year-old Holly Woodhead who was eliminated for missing a flag, but she definitely has our attention!

Totally and utterly gutted for @hollyWoodhead2 but my god girl you will be mega and you will have your day. Stupid flags I hate them too!!!!

— Gemma Tattersall (@GTeventing) August 14, 2015

There is something majestic about @svennerstal maybe it’s the hair ? #gobobgo — imogen mcmurray (@imogen_mcmurray) August 14, 2015

Yea… maybe it’s his hair…

“Re-insta @kimclundin” What a great couple of days it has been @aachen2015 A few things to sort out for @bciht but all looking good #bestshowever #aachen2015 #bobthecob

A photo posted by Ludwig Svennerstål (@ludwigsvennerstal) on Aug 14, 2015 at 11:34am PDT

Extremely chuffed for @GTeventing !! Such a tough determined rider. Well done Hun!! — Alice Dunsdon (@AliceDunsdon) August 14, 2015

Eventing @Aachen2015 done & dusted, @EquestrianAus team finish in 5th place. The Germans outclassed everyone today but NZ were close behind

— Paul Tapner (@TapnerEventing) August 14, 2015

The senior eventing team moved up to 4th place in Aachen after 3 clear XC rounds today. Well done Padraig, @attington & @DoneganRyanEven — Team IRL Equestrian (@TeamIRLEq) August 14, 2015

And Micheal Jung was on his 3rd and 4th string….. #GermanDomination https://t.co/l3sOIF3cdc

— Laura Collett (@CollettEventing) August 14, 2015

YESSS!! Super clear round for Cheeky!! pic.twitter.com/8wbMgBXFuf — Andrew Hoy (@HoyEventing) August 14, 2015

Love that name! I’ve known a more than a few cheeky ponies in my lifetime…

#allthecarrots

It’s great to see all these top riders thanking their horses after their rounds #Aachen15

— Eventing Worldwide (@EventingWWNEWS) August 14, 2015

Bonkers. That was definitely the word I was looking for.

The crowd go bonkers as Sandra Auffarth comes home clear inside the time. #Aachen2015 #NationsCup — Horse & Country TV (@HorseAndCountry) August 14, 2015

Being a equine sports journalist is basically awesome.

Happiness is not having to choose which stream to watch at work. #DerbyChamps @Aachen2015 @ClipMyHorse @EQSportsNet pic.twitter.com/vFycrriMvC

— Chronicle o/t Horse (@ChronofHorse) August 14, 2015

What a horse Quicklook is! So inexperienced to jump round such a tricky track! So excited about her future #mega #roadtorio !! @Aachen2015 — Gemma Tattersall (@GTeventing) August 14, 2015

OPGUN LOUVO – current world champion is looking very smart – love this horse – a Show Jumper that happens to LOVE XC — Lissa Green Eventing (@LissaGreen88) August 14, 2015

Who doesn’t love cross country?

A masterclass from Jonelle Price on how to keep a line. What a classy horse Faerie Dianimo is.

— Eventing Worldwide (@EventingWWNEWS) August 14, 2015

Wesko you freak. What a round. pic.twitter.com/JnW8gSWZ9t — Eventing Consultant (@EventingConsult) August 14, 2015

Thanks for a brilliant week. See you next year, Aachen!

Aachen CICO3* Cross Country Live Updates

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 14, 2015 7:30 am -

Fence 16AB: The Coffin. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Good morning! We’re looking forward to a great day of cross country in Aachen. We get underway at 8:00 a.m. EST, and keep refreshing this post for updates throughout the morning. Thanks to ClipMyHorse.tv we also have a live video stream of the action, which you can access here. It’s free without registration and available everywhere except Germany.

#Aachen2015: Website, Ride Times, Live Scores, Team Scores, XC Order of Go, XC Live Stream, Schedule, Aachen Preview, Course Preview, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

12:05 p.m. EST: It’s official. Aachen director Frank Kemperman just confirmed in the press conference that the team standings are official: Germany 1st, New Zealand 2nd, USA 3rd.

11:45 a.m. EST: New developments! The live scoring has just been updated to eliminate Holly Woodhead and DHI Lupison for missing a flag at fence 20b. If that stands, it will knock Great Britain out of the Nations Cup standings and move Team USA up to third place:

11:07 a.m. EST: It’s Germany, New Zealand and Great Britain in the top three of this leg of the Nations Cup. The United States moved up to fourth thanks to two clear rounds. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn finished 12th, Lauren Kieffer and Veronica finished 15th and Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master finish 18th for Canada. Stay tuned for a full report from Jenni and thanks for joining us this morning! Go Eventing. Go Aachen.

11:02 a.m. EST: Ingrid has finished first with Escada and second with Horseware’s Hale Bob. #awe-inspiring

Ingrid does it! Total legend! FRH Escada JS wins Luhmuhlen in June and Aachen in August #Aachen2015

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 14, 2015

10:59 a.m. EST: Amazing round from Ingrid and her brilliant mare Escada. They finish clear right on the optimum time to win the division, having led from the start. Absolutely incredible.

10:55 a.m. EST: Go ahead and turn down the volume, it’s going to get LOUD when Ingrid and FRH Escada JS enter the main arena. They are clear through 13 so far!

10:53 a.m. EST: Darn. Twenty penalties at 16b for Holly. The horse just jumped in huge over the first element and couldn’t get organized for the second. That’s a real bummer, but this is a star combination that has competed brilliantly this week. Look for incredible things to come from this pair.

10:52 a.m. EST: 21-year-old Holly Woodhead and DHI Lupison were second after show jumping and they need to finish to give Great Britain a team score.

10:51 a.m. EST: Hoyboy has finished clear with 6.8 time! Gotta love the enthusiasm from the crowd; they are cheering EVERYONE home.

10:50 a.m. EST: Andrew Hoy (AUS) takes the long route with Cheeky Calimbo at 16. Playing it safe just a few from home!

10:47 a.m. EST: Michael Jung and fischerTakinou enter the main arena to the roar of the crowd. They cross the finish clear with 3.6 time penalties riding individually for Germany.

10:46 a.m. EST: Germany once again wins the Aachen CICO3*! #unstoppable

10:43 a.m. EST: Sandra finishes three seconds under the time to huge applause in the main arena. Germany has all four team horses in the top ten with three of them producing double-clear rounds.

10:42 a.m. EST: WEG gold medalists and last year’s Aachen winners Sandra and Opgun Louvo hit the flag at 16b but they’re clear. Michael Jung is on course now with Fischertakinou.

10:40 a.m. EST: Jonelle and the grey mare Faeirie Dianimo finish clear with 3.6 time. That puts three NZL team horses in the top 10.

10:37 a.m. EST: Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Louvo are on course. We’re into the top 5! Jonelle Price and Faerie Dianimo have had a cracking round so far. Have we ever told you how much we love this horse’s ears? Pricked straight forward and looking for the next fence all the time!

10:34 a.m. EST: Stefano Brecciaroli (ITA) and Apollo van de Wendi Kurt Hoeve retire after a runout at 16b. They were 8th after show jumping.

Leave it to Phillip Dutton to bring it home for Team USA! #Aachen2015 A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 14, 2015 at 7:29am PDT

10:31 a.m. EST: Tim Price and Wesko finish clear 10 seconds under the time! That’s the third double-clear of the day and they’re guaranteed a top 10 finish.

10:29 a.m. EST: 2014 Luhmühlen winner Wesko is like a cat through the angled trucks at 16. They’re clear so far.

10:26 a.m. EST: Tim Lips and Concrex Bayro come to grief at 16b. The horse kicked out at the truck as he passed by… we can’t say we blame him…

10:22 a.m. EST: We’re into the top 10 on the leaderboard now. Gemma Tattersall and Quicklook V (better known as Pebbles!) finish with a time of 7:05.

10:19 a.m. EST: Massive applause for Rebecca and “Rupert” as the cross the finish line clear with 2.4 time penalties. Canada also completes the Nations Cup with a team score!

10:18 a.m. EST: Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master are on course for Canada and clear through 22.

10:15 a.m. EST: They’ve done it! Phillip and Cuba finish clear six seconds over the time! The USA finishes the Aachen CICO3* with a team score. Hooray!

10:14 a.m. EST: And the brush corner at 22! Go Phillip! Go Cuba!

10:14 a.m. EST: Phillip is clear through the angled trucks at 16!

10:11 a.m. EST: Austin O’Connor and Kilpatrick Knight cross the finish clear with 10 time penalties. That means all three Irish team riders finished without jumping penalties!

10:10 a.m. EST: Ludwig Svennerstall jumps clear with 8 time for Sweden riding King Bob.

10:09 a.m. EST: Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn are on course. We need them to finish!

10:03 a.m. EST: 20 penalties at 16b for Kevin McNab (AUS) and Casperelli followed by a sticky moment at 22. They’ve finished with a time of 7:11.

10:02. a.m. EST: Padraig McCarthy and Simon Porloe finish clear with 5.2 time. That’s another great team score for Ireland!

10:00 a.m. EST: And let’s burn the brush corner at 22a while we’re at it. Kathryn and Let it Bee pick up another 20 penalties there.

9:58 a.m. EST: Kathryn Robinson and Let it Bee for Canada run out at 16b. These trucks should be broken down for parts when this competition is over.

9:55 a.m. EST: Colleen and CR part ways at the brush corner in the water at 20. She and CR are both up and look to be fine. CR just twisted in the air and Colleen couldn’t stick with it. It’s up to Phillip to finish for the U.S. team.

9:53 a.m. EST: Nooooo!! CR gets in close and then runs out at the truck at 16b.

9:52 a.m. EST: Arrrgh! We’ve hardly seen Colleen on the live feed. They keep showing replays of the Germans at the finish. She’s clear through 15.

9:51 a.m. EST: Colleen and CR are clear through 12! No problems at the Normandy Bank which have caused so much trouble already.

9:48 a.m. EST: Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights are on course! Go Team Go!

9:47 a.m. EST: Dirk Schrade and Hop and Skip for Germany finish bang on the optimum time of 6:40! That’s two double-clears for the German team!

9:44 a.m. EST: Alright Toddy! He and Campino finish clear just a few seconds over the time.

9:39 a.m. EST: Mark Todd is on course with his London Olympic ride NZB Campino. They were fifth at Luhmühlen in June. New Zealand really needs him to finish for the team since Jock Paget was eliminated earlier.

Consensus in chatting to riders is course definitely riding tougher than anticipated. So much for it being “softer” — it’s #Aachen2015!

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 14, 2015

9:34 a.m. EST: Sara Algotsson Ostholt and Reality 39, riding on the Swedish team, are another to fall victim to the trucks at 16. A brilliant save at the second water and they are into the arena with just a few left to jump.

9:32 a.m. EST: Karen Donckers (GER) and Fletcha van’t Verahof finish with 40 jumping penalties and 30.2 time. They ran into trouble at both 16b and 22a, the two technical questions that have been causing the most problems today.

9:28 a.m. EST: Caroline Powell (NZL) and Onwards and Upwards are the first to have a problem in the main arena. They refuse the bank out of the water at 25a and take out some flower pots as well. Caroline keeps looking down at the horse’s boots as they cross the finish.

Just talked to Lauren Kieffer and Holly Jacks-Smither in the vet box. Both thrilled with their rides! Quotes on EN later #Aachen2015 — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 14, 2015

9:19 a.m. EST: The crowd in the arena goes absolutely wild as Ingrid and Horseware Hale Bob cross the finish and post the first DOUBLE-CLEAR ROUND of the day. She’s grinning from ear to ear!

9:18 a.m. EST: Individual German rider Niklas Bschorer and Tom Tom Go 3 finish with 20 penalties at 16b. Peter’s question mark at 11 has been removed.

9:14 a.m. EST: A star next to a flag on the live scores indicates a team horse. No star means they are riding individually. Germany holds the top three placings in the clubhouse with one team score from Michael Hung and Halunke and two individual scores from Bettina Hoy and Peter Thomsen. Ingrid Klimke is on course with her first horse, Horseware Hale Bob. Their score will count for the team.

9:11 a.m. EST: Peter and Horseware’s Barny bring home another clear for Germany, but there is still a question on the live scores for 11c. It’s been taken down and put back up a couple times.

9:10 a.m. EST: There was a question mark next to Peter Thomsen and Horseware’s Barny’s score at 11c. They’ve taken out more than one flag on course but they’ve been allowed to continue on.

9:07 a.m. EST: Paul Tapner finishes with 4.8 time faults aboard Indian Mill. We must mention Michael Ryan and Dunlough Striker finished clear for Ireland with 10.8 time.

9:05 a.m. EST: A word of caution from Blyth Tait:

Do some event riders need reminding that speed is the last ingredient in the recipe for success?? #dodgemsataachen — Blyth Tait (@BlythTait) August 14, 2015

9:04 a.m. EST: Holly punches the air as she and More Inspiration cross the finish line completing their first team event riding for Canada. Well done!

@eventingnation What a mare! What a ride! So proud and happy for them! @laurenkieffer — D.LeeArt (@DLeeStudio) August 14, 2015

9:03 a.m. EST: Rats. A refusal for Holly and More Inspiration at 22a, the same place Donner and Lynn had their mistake.

9:01 a.m. EST: Holly takes the long route at 16 with More Inspiration. She saves a runout at the corner in the second water. They’re just a few fences from home and clear so far!

8:59 a.m. EST: YES!!! Lauren and Veronica are home CLEAR with 10.4 time penalties.

8:58 a.m. EST: The video feed is slowing down a little bit. Can you imagine just how many thousands of people are watching this around the world right now?

8:57 a.m. EST: Lauren and Veronica are clear through those pesky angled trucks at 16!

8:56 a.m. EST: Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration are out first pair on course for Canada.

8:55 a.m. EST: Lauren and Veronica tidily through the first water and the table at 9.

8:53 a.m. EST: Love to see Michael help his groom tend to Halunke at the finish. Lauren Kieffer and Veronica are on course.

8:51 a.m. EST: Michael and Halunke cross the finish clear with a time of 6:46 for just 2.4 time faults.

8:49 a.m. EST: Come on Michael Jung, we need another clear! He and Halunke FBW are clear through 18.

8:44 a.m. EST: Clifton Lush glanced off 16b, unseating Jock Paget. It looked like he might be able to save it but the horse put his head down right before the ditch at 17 and they parted ways. That’s unfortunate elimination.

8:41 a.m. EST: Alice has another runout at 17c, a skinny after the keyhole at the coffin. The live scores are also showing Flora and Bayano got eliminated for a third refusal on course at 22a, a right-pointed brush corner. The skinnies and brushes are causing the problems on this course designed by Rüdiger Schwarz’s.

8:38 a.m. EST: Alice does a brilliant job getting going again just one fence from the first water. Then they pick up a refusal at 11c, the brush corner at the Normandy Bank.

8:37 a.m. EST: We’re back under way.

8:34 a.m. EST: Alice Naber-Lozeman (NED) and ACSI Peter Parker are stopped at 6 with the help of the crowd shouting. Back at fence 9, Wieloch’s Utah Sun is still being tended. He’s limping, but walking and they have not loaded him in a van.

8:31 a.m. EST: Louise Svensson Jadhe (SWE) and Wieloch’s Utah Sun take a hard fall at fence 9, the Harvester Cart after the water. Louise was thrown clear and is up. The horse is getting checked out by the vets.

8:29 a.m. EST: Runout at the first angled truck at 18a and then a runout at 16b on the second attempt for Flora Harris (GBR) and Bayano.

8:25 a.m. EST: Andreas Dibowski and FRH Butts Avedon have a runout at the second element of the angled trucks at 16. That’s the first problem we’ve seen there. Word will be getting back to the barns that you really have to hold your lines on this course!

8:23 a.m. EST: Bettina Hoy and Designer 10 finish clear with 2 time penalties to huge applause in the arena.

8:22 a.m. EST: The live scores are showing elimination for Class Hermann Romeike and Cato 60 at 11c now. The replay showed them taking out the flag.

8:18 a.m. EST: Bettina Hoy and Designer 10 had to work hard to get through the first water at 7. That was some fancy footwork, but they’re clear!

8:17 a.m. EST: Claas Hermann Romeike and Cato 60 have a refusal at 11 c at the Normandy Bank. Francis is the only one to finish without jumping penalties so far.

8:14 a.m. EST: Donner runs out to the right at the corner at 22a! They take the option to clear the complex. The finished with a time of 7:08 for 31.2 total penalties.

8:13 a.m. EST: Lynn and Donner are clear through the angled hedges at 16.

8:11 a.m. EST: Johan nearly goes out the side door when Johnny Cash tipped on landing at the corner at 22a. They had to circle and take the option at B, resulting in a refusal on the scoreboard.

8:09 a.m. EST: Johan Lundin and Johnny Cash take out a flag but they are clear through the angled hedges at 16. Lynn Symansky and Donner are on course!

8:07 a.m. EST: Francis is home clear with a time of 6:58 for 7.2 time penalties. EquiRatings says only four pairs have made the time in the last two years.

8:05 a.m. EST: Francis and “Smokey” beautifully through the angled hedges at 16 that had the riders worried. Our first combination shows it can be done!

8:03 a.m. EST: Here is the direct link to the live stream at ClipMyHorse.tv. It is free, available everwhere except Germany, and it does not require a login or registration.

8:01 a.m. EST: Francis Whittington and Easy Target for GBR are the first out on course.

Aachen Eventing Day 1 Social Media Roundup

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 13, 2015 7:30 pm -

It was a great day for Team USA, with all four horse and rider combinations laying down solid dressage scores in an electric atmosphere this morning at the Aachen CICO3*. With the top 10 individual rides all scoring in the 30s, we weren’t quite competitive enough to match the usual suspects, but the overall improvement of America’s performances in the sandbox is clear.

This afternoon’s show jumping course showed no mercy, particularly when it came to chasing the clock. Two brilliant double-clears from Lauren Kieffer and Veronica and Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn moved Team USA up to fifth place overnight. Aachen is no dressage show, and with four cross country powerhouses representing the red, white and blue this year, we hope to give the competition a run for their money in the final phase.

There will be a free live video feed of the cross country thanks to the good folks at ClipMyHorse.tv starting at 8:00 a.m. EST on Friday. We’ll also be running live updates here on EN. Be sure you’re also following EN on Instagram and Twitter for behind-the-scenes photos from Chinch and friends and up-to-the-second news and notes.

Now, let’s check out Aachen around the interweb.

#Aachen2015: Website, Live Scores, Team Scores, Schedule, Aachen Preview, Course Preview, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Kendyl Tracy and Donner waiting for show jumping to begin.

Posted by Lynn Symansky Equestrian on Thursday, August 13, 2015

Donner was not a huge fan of the close crowds and grass turf today at Aachen. He had one rail down and picked up a…

Posted by Lynn Symansky Equestrian on Thursday, August 13, 2015

Tom Tierney and Simon Roosevelt’s Fernhill Cubalawn jumped clear and inside the time in show jumping this afternoon at…

Posted by Phillip Dutton Eventing on Thursday, August 13, 2015

Sunrise over Aachen

Posted by USEF Eventing High Performance on Wednesday, August 12, 2015

A pretty amazing day here in @Aachen2015 @hollyWoodhead2 rode like a superstar & DHI Lupison was awesome #proudgroom in 2nd overnight

— Alex Van Tuyll (@alex8vt) August 13, 2015

Super star girl thanking her super star horse after a cracking test going to 2nd at @Aachen2015 @hollyWoodhead2 pic.twitter.com/pcbe4Wmkmd — Lissa Green Eventing (@LissaGreen88) August 13, 2015

The German team horses quarters at the @Aachen2015 European Championships. Say hello to Desperados! pic.twitter.com/z4i8ibWg97

— Horse & Hound (@horseandhound) August 13, 2015

Results of @Aachen2015 dressage & jumping & order for cross-country at: http://t.co/3OxZ2kYoHn #GoCanada #CET pic.twitter.com/mxiVH0jN5g — Equine Canada (@Equine_Canada) August 13, 2015

Super test for super pony Cheeky Calimbo – currently 4th on 34.5 pic.twitter.com/c0Xtfz1QFA

— Andrew Hoy (@HoyEventing) August 13, 2015

Designer jumped great but the jockey was a bit too slow :-(((( but super proud of Superhasi!!! http://t.co/vjJrb1rN0q — Bettina Hoy Eventing (@BettinaHoy) August 13, 2015

@GTeventing & Pebbles 11th after show jumping – ahead of Michael Jung! Took some serious riding to bring Pebbles home clear. #qualityjockey

— Chris Tattersall (@ChrisTattersall) August 13, 2015

Well done @TicketToRio – Seriously Impressive! 18 and counting!! pic.twitter.com/XfAkAVokx1 — EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 13, 2015

Quicklook fab in SJ just a tiny bit green so had to hold hand to a few fences, cross to have 1TF! But my god she is mega! #loveher

— Gemma Tattersall (@GTeventing) August 13, 2015

Well done to the Netherlands for winning dressage team gold for the 2015 FEI European Championships! Great Britain earned silver and Germany bronze. Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro are currently leading the individual competition, of course!

The first medals of the FEI European Championships Aachen 2015 were awarded! Congratulations to all teams and looking…

Posted by FEI European Championships Aachen 2015 on Thursday, August 13, 2015

Aachen Horse Inspection and Dressage Championships Social Roundup

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 12, 2015 6:00 pm -

All the eventing horses presented for the Aachen CICO3* passed the first horse inspection today. Competitors will ride dressage and cross country tomorrow so it will be a very exciting day! Jenni will be keeping you posted from start to finish with news and photos, so keep it locked here on EN (just be discreet if you’re in the office, okay?).

In the FEI European Championships (which exclude eventing in Aachen) got started today with the team dressage competition and individual qualifiers. Germany leads after the first day on a combined score of 150.1 with the Netherlands less than two points behind in second. Great Britain is third with a team score of 145.743. There are a whopping 18 countries competing in dressage. Dressage will continue tomorrow alongside eventing as the only two disciplines competing until Friday when reining will begin.

#Aachen2015: Website, Entries, Schedule, Aachen Preview, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

The opening ceremonies were apparently a real spectacle! Jenni said Aachen is like Disney World for horse people. I think she’s right!

Is this the greatest equestrian show on earth? @Aachen2015 kicks off in style ttps://www.an-eventful-life.com.au/ pic.twitter.com/X4QwfS69ol

— An Eventful Life (@eventfulifebook) August 12, 2015

Sure we’re biased, but our Americans looked very professional at the jog today! We’re looking forward to a very exciting day tomorrow.

Some behind the scenes pictures of Aachen taken by Colleens awesome groom Alex.

Posted by Colleen Rutledge Eventing on Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Donner passed the first veterinary inspection at @aachen2015 with flying colors. Dressage for the Deer is at 9:00 AM tomorrow (3:00 AM EST). #fancyDeer #aachen2015

A photo posted by Lynn Symansky (@lynn.symansky.equestrian) on Aug 12, 2015 at 11:04am PDT

Tom Tierney and Simon Roosevelt’s Fernhill Cubalawn passed the horse inspection this afternoon at Aachen CICO3*. He does his dressage at 2:37 p.m. local time tomorrow.

Posted by Phillip Dutton Eventing on Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Lauren looking great and Team Rebecca’s Veronica aka Troll being her usual sassy self at jogs where they were accepted!…

Posted by Lauren Kieffer Eventing on Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Great end of day one at Aachen – http://t.co/gIADGaIONs #supportingTeamGBR (Image: @JonStroud) pic.twitter.com/KFKZVKSWdn — Team GBR (@TeamGBR) August 12, 2015

Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro ride their first test for Great Britain in the FEI European Championships dressage competition on Thursday.

Blueberry saying hello to the Aachen mascot that who we have called Harli 🙂

Posted by Charlotte Dujardin on Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Superstars everywhere in Aachen. Totilas and Matthias Alexander Rath ride for Germany on Thursday as well.

Morning training at Aachen.

Posted by Totilas ; on Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Aachen Arrivals Social Media Roundup

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 11, 2015 3:30 pm -

Some of the world’s best have been making their way to Aachen over the last several days. There is a lot going on with both the FEI Eventing Nations Cup and the FEI European Championships for dressage, show jumping, vaulting, reining and driving taking place at the same venue.

If you missed it, here’s everything you need to know about Aachen. Jenni is in Germany covering the event for EN so stay tuned for tons of brilliant content this week from one of the most highly anticipated team events of the year. The opening ceremonies are happening right now (check out EN’s Instagram for fabulous photos!) and the eventing first horse inspection is tomorrow.

#Aachen2015: Website, Entries, Schedule, Aachen Preview, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

EN is under the lights at #Aachen2015!

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 11, 2015 at 12:02pm PDT

Wir haben seit zwei Tagen charmanten Besuch im Hauptstadion. Die beiden offenbar Frischverliebten – wir haben sie mal… Posted by CHIO Aachen on Thursday, April 30, 2015

Riding during the warm up for the massive opening ceremony was quite exciting but Bob feels great after the trip. Tomorrow vet check @aachen2015 #aachen2015 #bobthecob A photo posted by Ludwig Svennerstål (@ludwigsvennerstal) on Aug 11, 2015 at 11:13am PDT

Aachen 2015!

Posted by Ingrid Klimke on Tuesday, August 11, 2015

The Americans have arrived!

Posted by Lauren Kieffer Eventing on Tuesday, August 11, 2015

The cutest reindeer of them all is settled in his stall at @aachen2015 #AmericanTBinEurope #aachen2015 #eventing #teamUSA

A photo posted by Lynn Symansky (@lynn.symansky.equestrian) on Aug 11, 2015 at 12:30pm PDT

Thrilled to have Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights added to the Nations Cup Team! CR seems to be liking Europe.

Covert Rights new love in England Posted by Colleen Rutledge Eventing on Sunday, August 9, 2015

Tom Tierney and Simon Roosevelt’s Fernhill Cubalawn has been enjoying his time training in Holland with the team in preparation for the Aachen CICO3*. The team ships to the venue this afternoon! Posted by Phillip Dutton Eventing on Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Can’t forget about Canada!

More Inspiration looking very pleased with himself after a good flat school with Holly Jacks-Smither #Aachen2015 A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 11, 2015 at 7:49am PDT

Go Aachen!

Monday News and Notes from Event Clinics

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 10, 2015 12:46 am -

Photo via Polly Gilbert

Polly Gilbert sent us the above photo of Erin Renfroe’s horse De Cordova, or Andy, getting some beauty sleep while his “employees” set his studs for his upcoming Intermediate cross country run at GMHA. It’s kind of sweet that they didn’t make him get up to get dressed for work! He is clearly not concerned about the task ahead and ultimately put in a clear cross country round for a fifth place finish in the division. Well done!

Weekend Action:

Glen Oro H.T. [Final Scores]

GMHA Festival of Eventing H.T. [Final Scores]

Fair Hill H.T. [Final Scores]

Otter Creek Summer H.T. [Final Scores]

Summer Event at Woodside H.T. [Final Scores]

Area VII Young Rider Benefit H.T. [Final Scores]

Monday News and Notes:

To shave or not to shave. The two camps have strong opinions on the topic. Once my horses started living out 24/7 I quit shaving their noses so that they could better find their way at night. Now I don’t think I’d go back to trimming their whiskers at all. Inspired by how mammals use their whiskers to “see”, scientists at the University of Illinois have developed a robotic ‘whisker’ tactile sensor array to create images. [The Nose Knows]

Ian Stark will jump in as the international judge at the 2015 USEA Young Event Horse Championships. Ian certainly has an eye for what makes a great event horse, and his experience as a course designer can only better his judgement for a young horse’s potential over modern courses. [2015 YEH Championships]

It’s not like horse people actually get the frequent chance to go on holiday, but when they do their emotions are torn between sweet freedom and endless worry. Surely some of the feelings in this humorous article will sound familiar to you. [Because you can’t take your horse on holiday]

The Tonto National Forest Service is backing off their plans to round up the famous wild horses of Salt River in Arizona due to public outcry, but the herd’s future is not yet clear. Click here to read more about what’s actually going on with the Salt River horses in an article published by our sister site Horse Nation, and use the following link for more on the current status of the situation. [U.S. Forest Service Backs Off]

The ashes of legendary chaser Kauto Star, who died after a tragic pasture accident in July, will be placed under his statue at Kempton Park where he was a five time winner of the King George Chase. It’s a fitting resting place for a horse who was so loved and admired on that very track. [Kauto Star]

Monday News and Notes from Event Clinics

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 3, 2015 12:26 am -

Hilda Donahue and Tuff Stuff before the Tevis Cup. Photo via Facebook.

While many of us had visions of cross country schooling and perfect grid work dancing in our heads this weekend, four-star event rider and world #2 ranked endurance rider Hilda Donahue was climbing mountains (quite literally) in her first appearance at the 100-mile Tevis Cup, the most difficult equestrian endurance ride in the world. She and her ride Tuff Stuff made it to mile 68 before Hilda opted to retire from the race when the horse showed signs of fatigue. We’ve enjoyed following along with Hilda’s foray into the endurance world and her enthusiasm, determination and above all horsemanship makes us so proud!

U.S. Weekend Action:

Millbrook H.T. [Results]

Olney Farm H.T. [Results]

River Glen H.T. [Results]

Catalpa Corner Charity H.T. [Results]

Silverwood Farm Summer H.T. [Website]

Windy Wyoming H.T. [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

Are you a KER ClockIt user? If so, you’ll want to enter this awesome contest KER is hosting! To encourage consistent usage of the heart monitors, KER will be giving away an ECOGOLD Secure XC Pad during the month of August. Each session you submit after using the heart monitor will grant you an entry, so the more you use KER ClockIt, the better your chances are to win! [KER ClockIt / ECOGOLD Contest]

Take this concussions survey. The science of concussions and their short and long term effects are a major safety topic in equestrian and other sports like football. Arielle Zhitomirsky is doing a physical therapy school project aimed at investigating concussions in equestrians and their implications. [Click here to take her survey]

Thoroughbreds for All! The Retired Racehorse Project event takes place Tuesday, August 4 at Traylor Stables and The Parting Glass in Saratoga Springs, New York. See live demonstrations, a marketplace of ex-racehorses for sale or adoption and preview a preview of horses competing in the $100,000 Thoroughbred Makeover this October. The line up includes Rosie Napravnik, Laine Ashker and Jennie Brannigan among other. [Thoroughbreds for All Tickets and Info]

Madden and Cortes ‘C’ won the Longines King George V Gold Cup for the second consecutive year. Last year Beezie became the first woman to win the prestigious Grand Prix riding Cortes ‘C’. They returned this year and topped a 42 horse division with a clear, fast round in the 6-horse jump off. [Madden and Cortes ‘C’ Win]

Ian Stark is inviting the public to tour his yard. During a free two-hour visit, he will show off some of his horses, discuss training techniques and give a tour of his stable. The visit is part of Harry Hall’s yard visits at top riders’ facilities. Space is limited, however, so click the link for more info and excuse me while I plan a trip to Europe. [Ian Stark to open up his yard to fans]

American Pharoah keeps on running. Triple Crown winner American Pharoah didn’t retire from racing after his historic victory at the Belmont Stakes. Yesterday he claimed his eighth consecutive win during the Haskell Invitational. He absolutely loped home and there was no hint of a whip from jockey Victor Espinoza. [American Pharoah Wins Haskell Invitational]

Catalpa Corner Benefits Local Charity + Hoos Family Dominates at River Glen

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 2, 2015 6:00 pm -

Bill Hoos and Ducati. Photo by Jenni Autry.

River Glen Horse Trials is a popular Area III event located just northeast of Knoxville, Tennessee. The early August horse trials is a good starting point for the fall season, and the dynamic terrain on cross country provides a good test for horse and rider as they gauge their training for the months ahead.

William Hoos and H. Rhodes Hart’s Brookfield Cult King were fourth after dressage, but they were the only combination in the sole Open Intermediate division to add no jumping or time penalties to their initial score. They finished in first place on a 28.5.

Michael Pollard and Boris O’Hara, owned by Heather Gillette, maintained the second place position throughout the three phases, adding one rail and 6.8 time to their score.

William’s daughter Rebecca Hoos rounded out the top three with H. Rhodes Hart’s Little Cruz. They were 12th after dressage with a 38.3, but producing one of only two double-clear show jumping rounds (the other was her dad and Brookfield Cult King) moved the pair up to seventh. Two time penalties on cross country was the second fastest ride of the class, and that fact rewarded them with a third place finish overall.

William and his own Celtic Rhythm moved up from 11th to finish fourth with a clear and fast cross country round. Michael Pollard and Tsetserleg, owned by Christine Turner, finished fifth on 46.1.

The Hoos family had a good run in Preliminary Open as well, with Rebecca picking up third with Davarusus H, owned by Company Harpeth Valley Equestrian Team, as well as seventh with Donnerstorm II, owned by the same. William was fourth with Donna Richards’ Ducati.

M. Paige Pence and Fernhill Can Do set the stage with a 26.4 in dressage and would not be challenged over fences. Two double-clear rounds guaranteed the win. Chelsea Kolman and Dauntless Courage were also flawless over fences, moving up from seventh to second and finishing on their dressage score of 33.2.

Preliminary Rider saw a shakeup after show jumping, with only three out of 16 competitors keeping all the rails in their cups. One of those pairs was Amelia Grubbs and Hang on Snoopy, who were eighth after dressage with 39.1. They moved into the lead after show jumping and followed that up with a double-clear round across the country to take home the blue.

It was a close race at the top with first through third separated by less than a point prior to the final phase. Claire Gordon and Ole Boy, owned by Karen Gordon, were hot on Amelia and Snoopy’s heels. They finished the course without penalty for second place on a 39.7. Katelyn Hagerty and Courtly Miss finished third with a 39.8. Not far behind in fourth was Kathryn Poos and Motocross, who added on two seconds of time to their dressage score, which moved them up from 12th to finish fourth overall.

River Glen H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

The Catalpa Corner Charity Horse Trials in West Branch, Iowa, takes place on a family farm that dates back to the 1800s; it’s history is evident by the many historic buildings on the property. The eventing facility that has been built there by Susan Brigham and Dr. James McNutt complements the history of the grounds and Iowa’s farming heritage. This year, at what the USEA Omnibus lists as a “no frill, but still thrilling event,” the proceeds benefit Miracles in Motion, a therapeutic riding center in Swisher, Iowa.

This year’s event welcomed Starter through Preliminary competitors. Bernard Morauw and Don’t Cross Us went double-clear on cross country to move from third to first place. A careful show jumping round resulting in four jump penalties and 2 time was still good enough to hold on to the top spot in Open Preliminary A.

Leah Lang-Gluscic and Company CML Horses, LLC’s Of Course Carter steadily climbed the leaderboard over three phases. A 33.3 in dressage placed them seventh to begin. A double-clear cross country round moved them up to third, and they gained another placing despite 8 penalties show jumping to finish second.

Andria Pooley and Vanity’s Revenge took their time in show jumping, pulling in 8 time penalties and one rail, but they finished third on a 42.9.

In Open Preliminary B, Alexis Anderson and Holly Golightly finished on their dressage score of 33.3 to win with room to spare over second place Madigan Murphy and Willdebrandt. They were first through the first two phases, but a rail and 2 time penalties dropped them down one place. Liesel Pfleger and Jos Fermin added some time on cross country, but produced one of the few clear show jumping rounds at the level to finish third on a 37.9.

Catalpa Corner Charity H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Congratulations to all the competitors who competed around the country this weekend.

Go Eventing!

Sunday Video: Rebecca Farm Helmet Cam

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 2, 2015 3:00 pm -

Personally, I just can’t get enough of the stunning backdrop and amazing weather found at The Event at Rebecca Farm in Kalispell, Montana. If you’ve never been, plan to make a trip to the Flathead Valley, check out the show and then do some hiking in Glacier Park. You won’t regret it!

Jessica Kerschbaumer better known as Alberta Eventer, recently uploaded her helmet cam from the Intermediate cross country at Rebecca Farm. Jess and her off-the-track Thoroughbred Hard Sun, also known as Sunny, were clear on course with some time due to a slight navigational error at the end of the course.

This is their first season at Intermediate together. Jess wrote in the video description: “Sunny was so on it and absolutely jumping out of her skin, total beast mode, I couldn’t have been more proud!”

Way to go Jess and Sunny!

New Fundraising Effort Will Help Prepare U.S. Teams for Rio Olympics

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 2, 2015 9:00 am -

Team USA at the 2015 Pan American Games. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The United States Equestrian Team Foundation has announced a new fundraising effort to help prepare the United States Equestrian Team for the 2016 Rio Olympics. The “Elizabeth B. Juliano & Havensafe Farm Human Sport Science and Medicine Challenge” hopes to raise $200,000 to jump start a new program.

The money donated will support the USEF’s pilot program for Human Sports Science and Medicine (HSSM), which will work in tandem with the Equine Sports Science Medicine program, an approach that, according to a USET press release, “will allow riders to improve their preparation for and performance at Rio 2016 as well as other Championships by working on their imbalances and injury prevention.”

Riders’ trainers and sports science and medicine personnel will also be included in the coordinated efforts. “It is essential if performance is to be maximized that equine and human SSM personnel work together,” USEF Director of Sport Programs Will Connell told EN.

The fundraising is being run by the USET Foundation, but the program itself will be managed by the USEF Sport Department. Connell said that the resources will go towards developing and delivering the program, which includes bringing in experts in the field.

“We are finalizing the detail of how the program will be delivered on the ground and will work with athletes, the USOC and other key stakeholders once the program is ready to be launched,” Connell said. “We are very confident that as the program develops and the protocols communicated to human SSM practitioners, there will be tangible benefits for all riders.”

Bonnie Jenkins, Executive Director of the USET Foundation, told EN that the pilot program will initially focus on the athletes who could potentially be competing in Rio but will bring in other athletes across all disciplines.

“The ultimate goal of the program is to make sure we are helping athletes involved in High Performance,” Jenkins said. “Betsy is a trustee and owner. She sees the value in adding this program to the High Performance program. She stepped up with a wonderful commitment.”

Elizabeth Juliano, a USET Foundation Trustee and Chair of the Development Committee, dressage rider and high performance dressage horse owner, has committed to match contributions to the challenge, dollar for dollar, up to $100,000.

“We are extremely grateful to Elizabeth B. Juliano & Havensafe Farm for making this program possible,” Connell said. “We are certain that this program will benefit riders from across the disciplines and help them prepare for and perform at the forthcoming Games and Championships.”

[USET Foundation Trustee Elizabeth Juliano Establishes Human Sport Science and Medicine Challenge for Olympic Preparation]

Creative Ways to Use Your Helmet Other Than Wearing it on Your Head

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 1, 2015 2:30 pm -

It’s International Helmet Awareness Day! Launched in 2010 by Riders4Helmets, International Helmet Awareness Day was created to educate riders on the importance of wearing a well-fitting and properly secured helmet every ride, every time.

It’s also a day when retailers all over the world offer discounts on helmets, so if you know you’re due for a new brain bucket, take advantage of the deals that are out there! If there is one riding accessory you should never skimp on, it’s your crash hat.

Minding your melon is the essential function of a good helmet, but our creative friends at SmartPak (who are offering 20% off helmets today only!) came up with some other ways your helmet might be useful. This video is from a few years ago, but the message still applies. Your helmet is not just a skid lid, it’s also a barn purse, a flower pot and… a bottle opener?

Whatever other ways you choose to use your helmet, just make sure you never go riding without one. We like you. And your noggin.

Product Review: IceRider Knee Therapy Wrap by IceHorse

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 1, 2015 1:00 pm -

The IceRider™ Knee Therapy Wrap by IceHorse®, who has provided reliable equine cold therapy products to reduce heat and inflammation for more than 15 years. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

If I were a horse, I would not likely have a career in a sport like eventing. The horse version of me would certainly not pass a jog, and probably not even a pre-purchase exam. The reason is not because I lack heart, but because I have bad leg conformation. Though not exactly knock-kneed, both patellas are rotated inward and, for all intents and purposes, I am severely “over at the knee.”

Professional medical advice has done little to help relieve the pain that comes with such construction, save pamphlets for at-home physical therapy exercises and little diagnosis beyond “that’s what you get for being a chick with hips.” But knee pain, much like back pain, can be debilitating and desperately infuriating.

I’ve experimented with various anti-inflammatories, topical treatment and supportive bandages over the years to relieve the discomfort, so I was grateful for the opportunity to try the IceRider™ Knee Therapy Wrap by IceHorse®, who has provided reliable equine cold therapy products to reduce heat and inflammation after work or injury for more than 15 years.

After a thorough test run of the Knee Therapy Wrap, I can confidently say I will never go back to using an awkward, wet bag of plain old ice to relieve pain and inflammation not only in my knees, but on any ailing joint!

Never use awkward, messy bags of ice again!

Convenient, Clean and Effective

I might whine about it, but I never let knee pain slow me down. Yet after returning from a less-than-leisurely 10-mile bike ride in the wilderness earlier this month, my right knee was more or less screaming at me in protest. Luckily, I had already tucked the two reusable FirstIce® inserts that come with the Knee Therapy Wrap in the freezer, so the brace was ready to strap on after slotting the packets in place and securing the velcro seam.

The granules inside the packets are flexible even when frozen, and after working the packet slightly to loosen the granules, it conforms to your leg comfortably. But you don’t have to confine yourself to the couch for this method of cold therapy; the brace moves with you as you go about your chores in the house or barn because the wrap with both inserts secured inside stays in place thanks to the three stretchy compression straps made with breathable Quadrispan™ anti migration fabric.

The inserts stay cold for up to 4 hours, but I found the packets are never so cold that they are painful or irritating, like you might experience using a bag of ice cubes. When you’re done, simply place the packs back in the freezer for the next use. The non-toxic, reusable packs are effective for up to 50 sessions, and replacements are easily ordered online.

Alternating between a hot and cold compress is often recommended for treating athletic injuries, and I found it a pleasant surprise that the FirstIce® inserts are not only a pain relieving cold remedy, but a soothing hot pack too. If you’re a good planner, you can keep one insert in the freezer and heat up another one according to the easy instructions provided on the insert label and achieve soothing contrast therapy – a far more professional option than the sad rice-filled hot sock and messy bag of ice I usually use!

The granules inside the packets are flexible even when frozen, and after working the packet slightly to loosen the granules, it conforms to your leg comfortably.

A Versatile Product

When using IceHorse® wraps, there are special wraps and boots for use on a hock, stifle or tendon, but what I really love about the FirstIce® inserts that come with the IceRider™ Knee Therapy Wrap is their versatility. They provide quick and effective relief for almost any ailing joint or sore muscle… let me tell you how I figured that out!

Not long after discovering the effectiveness of the IceRider™ Knee Therapy Wrap when used for its intended purpose, the universe gave me another opportunity (make that two) to test the product. One unscheduled dismount left me with a sore but thankfully not broken wrist – no problem, I just strapped a FirstIce® insert on my arm and went about my business.

Another high velocity meeting with the ground two days later left me with not only a bruised ego, but bruised sit bones. Considering sitting, either on a horse or in front of a computer, is the sum of most of my days, this was a problem. I’ll give you three guesses as to what happened next…

It was a week of physical drama I would not choose to repeat, but with each ache and pain I was grateful to find the FirstIce® inserts in the freezer to use as needed, and now I finally have an effective knee brace that can deliver support and reduce inflammation while allowing me to maintain mobility at home or the barn.

Click here to order your own IceRider™ Knee Therapy Wrap and check out other horse and human products by IceHorse®.

Millbrook Advanced Cross Country Live Updates

By Leslie Threlkeld on Aug 1, 2015 10:30 am -

Fence 14ABC. Photo by Madeline Backus.

Cross country got underway this morning at the Millbrook Horse Trials in Millbrook, New York. Join us for live updates of the Advanced division starting at 11:00 a.m.

Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless currently lead the Advanced on a 26.2, but she has very little breathing room, as the top 11 are all within a rail of the lead and time penalties are typical on Millbrook cross country. Lynn Symansky is hot on her heels with Donner followed closely by Buck Davidson and Ballynoecastle RM, who has won this division three times already in his career.

If you missed it, check out Maggie Deatrick’s Advanced course preview. Designer Tremaine Cooper has kept many of the Millbrook staples but has revamped the first loop of the course and added some tough new technical questions.

There is no live streaming of this event, but PRO Radio is live all day. Tune in to hear Piers Owens Lloyd announcing the action. He will be joined by Danny Warrington during the Advanced.

#Millbrook: Website, Schedule, Ride Times, Live Scores, Entries, EN’s Coverage, Instagram

1:27 p.m. EST: Here’s a look at your top ten after cross country at Millbrook!

Chinch: The Unofficial Ambassador of #MillbrookHT

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 1, 2015 at 10:04am PDT

12:55 p.m. EST: The live scores are slow to update so we’re not sure what the top ten looks like in the Advanced division after cross country. We’ll keep you posted as scores come in and stay tuned to EN for a full report. Thanks for following along!

12:53 p.m. EST: “What a great day for the sport!” Danny exclaims as Sarah and Knight Lion cross the finish.

12:52 p.m. EST: Sarah Cousins and Knight Lion are two from home. They are the last Advanced riders of the day.

12:50 p.m. EST: Madeline Backus and her 15.3 mare P.S. Arianna have finished with big smiles. We love how the commentators are so excited for the riders and enthusiastic about these amazing horses!

12:48 p.m. EST: Buck and Reggie finish with a fist pump. Lillian Heard and Share Option also crossed the finish a few minutes ago.

12:44 p.m. EST: “Buck just loves this horse, they’re great to watch!” commentator Danny Warrington says of Buck and Reggie.

12:43 p.m. EST: Kim Severson has reportedly withdrawn Cooley Cross Border before cross country. They were 11th after dressage.

12:42 p.m. EST: Kate Chadderton is on course with her third ride, Buckharo, another OTTB. Buck has started with Ballynoecastle RM, third after dressage.

12:37 p.m. EST: It’s been a beautiful day at Millbrook but now the rain has begun! Holly Payne finished with her OTTB Never Outfoxed – an amazing horse to watch run and jump because he just loves it so much.

12:35 p.m. EST: We reported earlier that Andrea Davidson retired Mystic My, but live scores are showing they were eliminated.

12:32 p.m. EST: Check out this awesome bank complex on the Advanced course!

Sponsored rider Marcia Kulak’s student up the Advanced bounce bank at #MillbrookHT. pic.twitter.com/wKQMTKMkJa

— Triple Crown Feed (@TripleCrownNutr) August 1, 2015

12:29 p.m. EST:

Allison Springer providing some color to the XC commentary #millbrook #eventinglive #PROTour Posted by Professional Riders Organization (PRO) on Saturday, August 1, 2015

12:28 p.m. EST: EN’s own Maggie Deatrick and Divine Comedy are on course now. Go Maggie Go!

12:25 p.m. EST: Colleen Rutledge has finished on her second ride Escot 6.

12:24 p.m. EST:

We have a major crush on Mikki Kuchta’s horse Rubens D’Ysieux. He is so cool! Just went nicely through the water #MillbrookHT — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 1, 2015

Mikki Kuchta and Rubens D’Ysieux. Photo by Jenni Autry.

12:18 p.m. EST: Lynn Symansky and Donner, second after dressage, are nearing the end of the course. They can move into first if they have no more than 1 time penalty.

12:16 p.m. EST: Thank goodness scores are coming in! So far Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights are in first place having produced DOUBLE-CLEAR ROUND – a very rare occurrence at Millbrook. Post-dressage leaders Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless had 3.2 time penalties.

12:10 p.m. EST: Sarah Cousins and Abecca GS are clear through 19, just a few from home now!

12:08 p.m. EST: Ryan and Woodstock Bennett complete the horse’s first Advanced cross country course. Sara Kozumplik is on course with her second ride Fly Me Courageous.

12:05 p.m. EST: The water, skinny tree trunk and coffin have been causing the most problems. We’re sorry we can’t bring you any scores – the spotty connection at Millbrook is making it difficult to upload results.

We’re seeing some very scrappy rides through the water but most are getting it done as long as they commit to their line #MillbrookHT — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 1, 2015

12:04 p.m. EST: Ryan Wood is on course with Woodstock Bennett. They are tied for seventh after dressage. Maya Black and her pocket rocket Doesn’t Play Fair are clear through the difficult coffin.

12:02 p.m. EST: Daryl Kinney with Union Station and Hallie Coon with Celien have both finished.

11:59 a.m. EST:

Daryl and Union Station have a very positive ride through the water after early trouble on course. Great recovery! — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 1, 2015

11:57 a.m. EST: Kate Chadderton has finished her second round in the division. Daryl Kinney has circled again. Sounds like she’s having a tough ride.

11:55 a.m. EST: Daryl Kinney is out on course with Union Station, an off-the-track Thoroughbred owned by Denny Emerson. They’re looking to complete their first Advanced. Sounds like they’ve had some trouble at 9a, the skinny tree trunk, and opted to take the option.

Fence 9AB. Photo by Madeline Backus.

11:53 a.m. EST: Several riders in this division have multiple rides and are heading out on their second mounts around now. Busy, busy!

11:49 a.m. EST:

Lillian Heard living dangerously with Barnaby. Jumped huge into the water and then catty enough to make it over B. Lil gave him a great ride — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 1, 2015

11:40 a.m. EST: Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch are on course. They have won Millbrook Advanced the past two years. Can they pull off a hat trick?

11:39 a.m. EST: The live scores are unfortunately not updating so we are not sure how the riders are doing on time, which is an influential factor at Millbrook.

We’re waiting to hear how the time is riding here at #MillbrookHT. No one has made the time in last 2 years. Optimum time is 5:54 — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 1, 2015

11:37 a.m. EST: Our leader Kim Severson is on course now with Fernhill Fearless!

11:35 a.m. EST:

USEF team selector Marcia Kulak commentating at the WaterView Tent at #MillbrookHT A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 1, 2015 at 8:30am PDT

11:31 a.m. EST: 20-year-old Savannah Fulton has finished her second Advanced with Captain Jack. Cheers heard across the course for this up-and-coming rider!

11:29 a.m. EST: Nilson Moreira da Silva and Muggle have finished. They’re aiming to represent Brazil at the Rio Olympics.

Nilson and Muggle had the crowd on the edge of their seats over the big corner coming out of the water but they get it done #MillbrookHT — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 1, 2015

11:25 a.m. EST: Sara Gumbiner and Polaris had a runout at the coffin, but they finished their first Advanced track!

11:23 a.m. EST: Justine Dutton thrilled to finish – lots of pats for Jollybo!

11:18 a.m. EST: Andrea Davidson and Mystic My’s day comes to an end at the water.

Mystic My jumps huge into the water and runs by the log at B. Andrea Davidson jumped B and then elected to retire #MillbrookHT — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 1, 2015

11:16 a.m. EST: Buck and Park Trader and Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn are both through the finish clear.

11:13 a.m. EST: Husband and wife dream team Buck and Andrea Davidson are on course at the same time!

11:12 a.m. EST: The live scores are not updating at the moment, but Jenni Autry is our boots on the ground at Millbrook and she’s reported on Twitter that the first several riders have been clear.

11:09 a.m. EST: Buck Davidson is on course for the fourth time this morning. He had several Intermediate rides. Park Trader is his first of four Advanced rides.

11:04 a.m. EST: Boyd Martin and Welcome Shadow are the first out on course. It’s announced that they finished but we don’t know the final score yet.

11:00 a.m. EST: We’re underway at Millbrook. Chinch is ready!

Chinch just staked out his spot by the water complex! Advanced cross country starts in 15 minutes #MillbrookHT #eventinglive A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 1, 2015 at 7:45am PDT

Olympics Official Marilyn Payne Shares Her Passion for Learning with the World

By Leslie Threlkeld on Jul 29, 2015 11:00 am -

It was announced in June that America’s own Marilyn Payne was selected as President of the Ground Jury for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. We are grateful to have had the opportunity catch up with Marilyn and learn more about her career as an official and life as a horsewoman.

Marilyn Payne is a known and respected eventing and dressage judge. Photo courtesy Michelle Dunn.

Marilyn Payne is a well-known and respected eventing and dressage judge. Photo courtesy of Michelle Dunn.

Marilyn Payne has officiated at some of the world’s biggest events, including judging at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and serving as President of the Ground Jury at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky. Yet, she was surprised when she was selected as President of the Ground Jury for the 2016 Rio Olympics. “I was honored they would ask me,” she said.

Marilyn’s career as an official has flourished through her love of horses and education. She is now a highly sought after clinician, sits on multiple equestrian committees and is a familiar face at major events around the country as both a Technical Delegate and Judge.

“I just really enjoy watching good horses and riders and I love helping people,” Marilyn said. “I enjoy giving comments that hopefully they can use to keep progressing in their training.”

Marilyn got her start as an official in the ‘70s. She was already an eventing Technical Delegate when the organization now known as the ESDCTA held a dressage judges training program near her home. She was qualified, having ridden at Second Level, so she participated and became a “r” Dressage Judge.

She started judging at both dressage shows and events while she continued to also compete in both. She evented a Thoroughbred named Bold Chance who did not cherish his job, so she focused on dressage and brought him up to the Grand Prix level, achieving the scores needed to pursue her “S” Dressage Judge license.

Marilyn is now a 4* FEI Eventing Judge, “R” Eventing Technical Delegate and USEF “S” Dressage judge. For decades, she has traveled the world to officiate both dressage and eventing competitions, creating lasting friendships and compiling unforgettable experiences along the way.

“One of the best perks of the job is that you always meet fabulous people. Wherever I judge there are always some familiar faces, and at each competition you meet new ones who become part of your family. As you travel around you may see someone only once a year, but it’s like old home week!” Marilyn said.

“No matter where I travel, eventers are all the same. They’re all the kind of people that I would like to be friends with. We all have similar personalities; we love horses, the outdoors and a good time.

“People ask ‘how can you judge and sit there for eight hours?’ But judging isn’t boring. You’re constantly on, watching and commenting, and no test is the same. How can it not be enjoyable watching talented horses and riders and witness the amazing partnership between them? It’s like a vacation; yes, you work and have responsibility, but it’s fun and you get to watch horses and riders having fun.”

Making Memories

“As the years passed, I have had more opportunities to travel. As a dressage judge I travel all over the United States, and as an event judge I have been able to travel worldwide. Judging eventing is fabulous because you get to see the most beautiful places in the world – not only beautiful landscape but also lovely mansions and castles.”

To date, the eventing competition in Hong Kong for the 2008 Olympics is the biggest event Marilyn has ever judged and one of the most fascinating travel destinations. Over the course of three weeks, she and the other officials got to tour the area and experience a completely new culture.

“People ask if I ever get tired of traveling. Not yet! All the venues are gorgeous! They are all totally unique in settings, cultures and surrounding areas. Every one has something unique about it.”

Marilyn’s goal is to officiate at every CCI4* event in the world, and Luhmühlen is the only one left on the list. So far, however, she can’t seem to pick a favorite.

“The organizers are always so gracious. They make you feel at home and help you explore the area. After officiating at the Adelaide CCI4* we were put up in a gorgeous hotel right on the beach. We got a private plane ride over to Kangaroo Island and a private Jeep tour. We saw koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat. What a special treat!”

Marilyn passes on her love of learning and improving as a rider to her students. Photo courtesy Marilyn Payne.

Marilyn passes on her love for learning to her students. Photo courtesy of Marilyn Payne.

The Most Memorable Test

For a person with so much experience officiating, surely there is one extraordinary test that Marilyn will never forget? Indeed, she had no trouble recalling the most memorable test she’s seen.

“The first time I was asked to judge Burghley, in the trot up we’re watching this small, short-strided chestnut mare trot up and I’m thinking ‘how can that be a four-star horse?'”

In disbelief, she looked forward to watching the horse compete. The next day during dressage, Marilyn was nervous because it was her first time judging a big competition abroad. A chestnut came in the ring and Marilyn was giving it high scores from the start.

“Seven, 7, 8, 9. Holy mackerel! This horse had so much presence and cadence. It was just phenomenal. I was throwing out scores thinking ‘I hope the other judges are with me!’” Marilyn recalled.

“The crowd there is very knowledgeable and they could see the scoreboard, which we couldn’t see. I could hear excitement in the air as the test went on, and when when we gave the collectives the crowd went wild.”

Marilyn, who was the side judge, awarded her first 10 for the pair’s final halt and salute. To Marilyn’s relief, the other judges agreed on the quality of the performance from the little chestnut mare.

“I had no idea that was the same chestnut from the day before,” Marilyn admitted. It was Lucinda Fredericks with her mare Headley Britannia. They ended up winning the whole event at Burghley that weekend and went on to win Badminton the following year and Rolex two years after that. “You just never know!”

All in the Family

Despite her illustrious career as an official, Marilyn might be most famous for being the mom of upper level event riders Doug Payne and recently married Holly Payne Caravella, and there are certain weekends every year that she keeps open so she can support them at major competitions, like Rolex and Fair Hill. “If they’re doing a top competition, I want to be there.”

The conflict of interest does present a small challenge if Doug or Holly are planning to compete at the same event where Marilyn is officiating. At a national competition, if Marilyn is the President of the Ground Jury, they can ride but she cannot judge their division or make any decision in regards to them. However, she can never officiate in an FEI division where they wish to ride.

So, she always checks with them and what their season plans are before setting her own schedule. For this reason, she has not judged at Fair Hill for several years and turned down an invitation to judge Rolex in 2016, since they both are planning to compete there.

“Judging at Rolex is amazing, but there is nothing like watching Doug and Holly compete there!”

Back at Applewood Farm in Califon, New Jersey, Marilyn’s husband, Dick, holds down the fort when she is away. He’s not a horse person, Marilyn said, but he does ride once a year at the Christmas gymkhana and usually beats them all, including Doug and Holly.

Dick understands the time and commitment required in a sport like equestrian. He has a vintage Corvette racecar that he takes out a few times a year. His colors are red and yellow, and the car, toolbox, chairs, uniforms, everything is color coordinated, just like in eventing. The friendship and camaraderie between drivers is similar to that of eventers, too, Marilyn said.

“He understands the whole deal with eventing because he does the same thing with car racing. He understands the dedication and hard work it takes to go to competitions.”

Dick went to competitions with Marilyn when they were dating and first married. Today, he goes to the three-star and four-star events to support Doug and Holly. Throughout the year, his presence at home on the farm remains invaluable. “I wouldn’t be where I am without him.”

“I just really enjoy watching good horses and riders and I love helping people.” Photo courtesy of Marilyn Payne.

Working with Young Horses

When Doug and Holly were born, Marilyn quit her “real job” to stay home with them. She started breeding sport horses, just one foal a year at the beginning. She loved watching them grow and develop.

When the USEA’s Young Event Horse program was started, she was asked to be on the committee. Amidst complaints about the judging at YEH events, Marilyn decided to put her experience training judges to good use and helped develop a judges training program for YEH. “We’re not going to have a successful program if no one has confidence in the judging.”

It’s come a long way, Marilyn said. “We are trying to encourage more breeding of event horses here in the U.S. We now have the Turner-Holekamp Grant which offers an incentive for American breeders, and we are working on other plans to encourage event horse breeding. The breeders must love eventing themselves since at this point it is not a big money maker. Owners must love the sport and want to be a part of developing U.S. horses to be a part of our teams.”

Marilyn would love to see less importing and more breeding here in America. “I love teaching and watching horses develop, so it’s fun whether they’re mine or not. I love watching horses progress from yearlings through the Future Event Horse competitions and on to YEH, culminating in the Championships.”

A goal of the YEH program is to identify future team horses, and that milestone was reached at this year’s Pan American Games in Toronto, where two of USA’s team gold medal horses were YEH graduates. Meadowbrook’s Scarlett, ridden by Lauren Kieffer, graduated the program just three years ago while Pancho Villa, ridden by Boyd Martin, was a participant in the early years of the program.

Marilyn and Safe Harbor competing at the Waredaca Training Three-Day. Photo courtesy Marilyn Payne.

Marilyn and Safe Harbor competing at the Waredaca Training Three-Day. Photo courtesy of Marilyn Payne.

When a Judge Competes

Now and then Marilyn keeps a weekend free so that she can compete her own horses. She has some young horses coming along that will start showing dressage soon. In eventing, she has been successful at Training level with her mare Safe Harbor, for whom the USEA’s Safe Harbor Award is named, given annually to a horse at the YEH championships that the judges feel are the most amateur friendly.

“One benefit of judging is it makes you a better rider. You also know exactly what the judges are looking for so you become a better showman and competitor.

“Obtaining a judge’s license takes years of training, listening, watching and learning the basics. It instills in you correct riding and correct training. It keeps making you a better rider as you become a better judge. I’m a person who loves the process, always wanting to learn and confirm my own training program.”

Marilyn upholds her dedication to education through activities offered at Applewood Farm, like frequent clinics and schooling shows for eventing and dressage riders and the popular FEH, YEH and Modified Eventing competition in August. On the occasions she is home, Marilyn’s schedule is typically filled with lessons.

Through officiating, teaching, training and participating in educational opportunities on and off the farm, Marilyn is able to share her passion for learning while enjoying the wonderful horse world with her friends, old and new.

Marilyn will be heading to the Olympic test event in Rio next week, and she promises to send us pictures and tell us what the venue is like. We plan to hold her to it!

Visit Marilyn’s website to learn more about her and upcoming activities at Applewood farm.

William Fox-Pitt’s Legendary Tamarillo Passes Away

By Leslie Threlkeld on Jul 28, 2015 7:17 pm -

View image | gettyimages.com

Tamarillo, William Fox-Pitt’s legendary eventing partner, was humanely euthanized today at age 23 according to a statement posted on the Fox-Pitt Eventing website. “Age had simply caught up” with the Anglo-Arabian gelding bred and owned by the Guinness family at Biddesden Stud.

William and Tamarillo had a storied career together, coming second in the Badminton CCI4* in 2002, a performance that earned them a spot on the British Team for the World Equestrian Games in Jerez. They also represented Great Britain at the 2004 Athens Olympics, the 2005 European Championships at Blenheim (where they won individual silver and team gold) and the 2006 World Equestrian Games in Aachen.

William has said the gelding was a spooky ride, but that was part of what made him so good. Tamarillo gave William his first Badminton victory in 2004, followed by second place there the following year. Their final FEI event together resulted in a victory at Burghley CCI4* in 2008.

Tamarillo spent his retirement “under the watchful eye” of William’s head girl Jackie Potts, who traveled the world caring for the gelding during his glory days. “He had an incredible presence, he was one in a million and I feel very lucky to have partnered him for all those special years,” William said of Tamarillo.

Tamarillo will be missed by many eventing fans young and old, as he has touched hearts across generations. His legacy will live on through our precious memories and a clone of Tamarillo named Tomatillo, born in San Antonio, New Mexico in 2013.

[Tamarillo]

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: Adorable Stuart HT Helmet Cam

By Leslie Threlkeld on Jul 13, 2015 6:30 pm -

If you don’t get a warm fuzzy feeling from watching Jannah Matzan and Carolyn’s Wehle’s 14-year-old Thoroughbred gelding Foghorn J. Leghorn conquer the Training cross country at the Cosequin Stuart Horse Trials this weekend, “That’s a joke, ah say, that’s a joke, son.”

The pair is clearly having a glorious time on course, and Jannah makes sure her steed knows it with no shortage of verbal rewards. Jannah and Foghorn J. Leghorn are both experienced at the level, but this was their first event together, and they made it count with a sixth place finish in Senior Training Rider.

Monday News and Notes from Event Clinics

By Leslie Threlkeld on Jul 13, 2015 12:20 am -

Saturday's sunset at Roebke's Run HT at the Schweiss family farm in Hector, MN. Photo thanks to Rachael W.

In just over a week I’ll be making my way West for my first ever trip to Rebecca Farm… and my first trip to Montana, for that matter. I just love mountains and have always marveled at the pictures that come out of that event every year, so I’m really excited to get to experience this famous venue for myself. One thing about my work in media that I am grateful for is the opportunity to experience the culture and landscape of a new place when traveling to events around the country. Sometimes you have to make the time, but it’s so worth it. While in Kalispell, we’re going to go hiking at Glacier National Park before heading home.

Rebecca Farm is actually in need of volunteers, so if you’re in the area or are hankering for a trip out West and are interested in helping out, use the online form at www.rebeccafarm.org/Volunteer or call (406) 253-1862.

U.S. Weekend Action:

Cosequin Stuart H.T. [Results]

Huntington Farm H.T. [Results]

Riga Meadow H.T. [Website]

Maryland at Loch Moy I H.T. [Results]

Roebke’s Run H.T. [Results]

39th Annual Whidbey Island H.T. [Results]

Champagne Run H.T. [Results]

Powder Basin H.T. [Results]

Coconino Summer I H.T. [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

USA’s Dressage Team won Pan American gold! The American team of Steffen Peters on Legolas, Laura Graves on Verdades, Kimberly Herslow on Rosmarin and Sabine Schut-Kery on Sanceo set the tone on the first day of competition and held onto their lead to win team gold and qualify for the Rio Olympics. Canada earned silver and Brazil the bronze. Individual medals will be determined with the Freestyle competition on Tuesday. USA! USA! [Dressage News]

Eventing’s own Hilda Donahue has risen to second on the FEI Endurance World Rider Rankings. We profiled Hilda’s foray into the endurance world earlier this year, and while she hasn’t left eventing behind, she has big goals in her new discipline. She will be competing in the world’s most difficult endurance ride, the Tevis Cup, on August 1st and is hoping to ultimately qualify for the 2018 WEG in endurance. [Horse Sport Ireland]

Canadian dressage team alternate Jacqueline Brooks is volunteering at the Pan Ams. In a fabulous showing of sportsmanship and national pride, the Canadian rider supported her team and the other competitors in a unique way by opening and closing the gate at A throughout the dressage competition. Lucky for us, she’ll be on hand to help with the eventing dressage portion of the Pan Ams, too. [Chronicle of the Horse]

The Ocala Star Banner featured Lauren Kieffer in a pre-Pan Am profile. With the horse inspection looming this week, the local news got to know Lauren and her parents before she left for Toronto. She talks about her first pony, why she chose eventing, and how her parents reacted when she decided to join the O’Connor camp instead of going to college. [Ocala Star Banner]

Teach your horse to smile! Elisa Wallace teaches her mustangs lots of tricks, and she’s revealed how they learn one of the most popular and adorable tricks – how to smile. In about 30 seconds, Elisa has a horse who has never before practiced this trick well on his way to puckering his lips on command. Stock up on your pony’s favorite snacks and click the link! [Wallace Eventing]

Ryan Lefkowitz and Cork’s Dun Bouncing won the Senior Beginner Novice Rider B division at Stuart Horse Trials this weekend. Check out their winning show jumping round, with a good save by Ryan at the brick wall halfway through the course!

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Aachen CICO3* Cross Country Live Updates

Aachen Eventing Day 1 Social Media Roundup

Aachen Horse Inspection and Dressage Championships Social Roundup

Aachen Arrivals Social Media Roundup

Monday News and Notes from Event Clinics

Monday News and Notes from Event Clinics

Catalpa Corner Benefits Local Charity + Hoos Family Dominates at River Glen

Sunday Video: Rebecca Farm Helmet Cam

New Fundraising Effort Will Help Prepare U.S. Teams for Rio Olympics

Creative Ways to Use Your Helmet Other Than Wearing it on Your Head

Product Review: IceRider Knee Therapy Wrap by IceHorse

Millbrook Advanced Cross Country Live Updates

Olympics Official Marilyn Payne Shares Her Passion for Learning with the World

William Fox-Pitt’s Legendary Tamarillo Passes Away

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: Adorable Stuart HT Helmet Cam

Monday News and Notes from Event Clinics

Stable View

Success Equestrian

FutureTrack

Sport Horse Nation

Kentucky Performance Products

Strides for Equality Equestrians

USEA

USEF

FEI