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Maggie Deatrick

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By the Numbers: Carolina International CIC3*

By on Mar 22, 2016 11:30 am -
Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM at Richland 2015. Photo by Rare Air Eventing Photography. Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM at Richland 2015. Photo by Rare Air Eventing Photography.

In only its third year, Carolina International has quickly become a must-attend show on the spring schedule. These organizers have proven that they can put on a world class event while responding to rider feedback, which is helping them swell their numbers every year. For 2016, almost 80 horses will contest the three-star, making Carolina one of the few North American events that can boast similar numbers to British competitions.

Today I’m going discuss who I think our top 10 finishers in the large CIC3* field will be, a dark horse who will likely make a strong comeback despite what the numbers say, a spoiler who has been under the radar but potentially could win the whole thing, and a sleeper who may or may not be in the top here, but has the potential to develop into world class.

This show is likely to be a test of inches, with my top 10 predicted to be within nine points of each other. There are plenty of contenders not listed below who could come out of the woodwork and contend for the top position this weekend, particularly with a brand new cross country course designer.

For the CIC3*, the dressage test will be 2015 FEI 3*-B. Ian Stark will design the cross country course for the first time this year, while Marc Donovan continues to design the show jumping courses.

TOP TEN

1. Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM: Reggie has already been making his mark this winter, running an Intermediate, the Wellington Eventing Showcase and Rocking Horse Advanced within a month’s time. This horse has won every event that he has completed since The Fork CIC3* last year … when he placed second. Since Reggie characteristically runs clear at Carolina, I don’t expect the streak to stop now.

Ballynoe Castle RM favors this particular test, averaging a 43.9 in four attempts. A double clear average over Marc Donovan show jumping courses will keep him high in the ranks. Surprisingly, this horse has only run once over an Ian Stark course in the past three years, accumulating 4.8 time penalties at Richland last summer while Buck was nursing a few broken ribs. Look for these two in the pole position come Saturday afternoon, with a score in the mid-to-high 40s.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley at the 2015 Wellington Eventing Showcase. Photo by Jenni Autry.

2. Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley: Liz and HHS Cooley have accumulated quite a collection of red ribbons during their time in the States, with second place finishes at Pine Top Advanced and Red Hills CIC3* in 2015 and already another at Pine Top CIC3* this spring. Look for them to add another one to their collection this weekend.

HHS Cooley is another who excels at this particular test, with his average of 45.3 nearly two points better than his overall average. This horse also jumps better than average over Marc Donovan courses, clocking in a double clear over his course at Galway Downs in 2013. With a final score just over 50 these two will take home second place.

3. Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect: Allie and Sound Prospect fly under the radar all too often, despite a clear capability of scoring in the 40s on the flat, running a quick and clean cross country, and jumping double clear show jumping rounds. With a really quality spring season, these two will continue to establish themselves as a leading combination in the U.S.

This pair averages 51.0 on this test, which will put them in stalking range of the leaders after the first phase. Marc Donovan courses are one of their specialties, as they’ve jumped four of five courses of his with no rails. Although they typically average a few penalty points across the country, they’ve proven to be particularly speedy when Ian Stark is the designer, running an average double clear. Look for Allie and Sound Prospect up in third place, with a score only a fraction behind HHS Cooley.

4. Phillip Dutton and Mr. Candyman: Mr. Candyman is one of Phillip’s developing horses, and despite qualifying for his first four-star already, this horse will continue gaining three-star experience this spring instead of going to Rolex. Strong right off the bat in dressage, he is still developing speed and carefulness.

“Elmo” performed this test a couple times last fall, averaging a 49.3 on two attempts. He has also jumped three of four Marc Donovan rounds with no rails, but could accumulate a couple time penalties. In his only attempt at an Ian Stark course, this horse ran double clear at Galway Downs last fall. If he replicates his effort, he should finish fourth, less than half a point behind Sound Prospect.

Kurt Martin and Delux Z. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kurt Martin and Delux Z. Photo by Jenni Autry.

5. Kurt Martin and DeLux Z: Kurt and DeLux Z are another pair that are flying a bit under the radar, despite a win at their first CCI3* last summer at Rebecca Farm. These two have a chance to do particularly well here, with strong experience with both course designers.

This horse averages a 52.9 on this particular test, which is right in line with his overall average. Although Kurt and “Lux” have split their two Marc Donovan courses with one rail and one clear, overall these two tend to show jump double clear. A double clear over their only Ian Stark course last summer clinched them a win, and a similar run here would bump them up into the top five, on a final score in the low 50s.

6. Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High: This pair is another who has improved leaps and bounds in the past 12 months, particularly in the dressage. Their new prowess on the flat will serve them well this weekend, positioning them for another crack at Rolex.

Selena and Foxwood High average a 47.1 on this test, nearly seven points better than their overall average. They do historically average one rail and one time penalty over Marc Donovan’s courses, but a quicker than average pace of 3.2 penalties over Ian Stark’s courses will bump them up again. This pair should end up in sixth, with a score less than a point behind DeLux Z.

7. Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville: Sinead and Tate are competing in their first FEI event together since the World Equestrian Games in 2014. A rough start to their season at Rocking Horse Advanced de-railed them a bit, but a third place finish in the Intermediate at Rocking Horse Winter III showed that things seem to be back on track.

Sinead and Tate haven’t performed this dressage test yet, but a solid average of 45.5 at this level should have them near the top of the leaderboard after the first phase. They do average one rail over Marc Donovan courses, which will drop them down a little. An average of 6.0 time penalties over Ian Stark’s course will keep them up inside the top 10. A final score in the mid-50s should see these two in seventh.

Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch at Burghley 2015. Photo by Nico Morgan.

Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch at Burghley 2015. Photo by Nico Morgan.

8. Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch: Laine and her longtime partner Anthony Patch are back for another go at Rolex and are making Carolina their final prep run before the big game. These two can really pull it out in all three phases and will be looking for a good run to feel confident heading to Kentucky.

Anthony Patch averages a stellar 44.3 on this test, only slightly better than his typical overall average. This pair does average a rail over Marc Donovan courses, slipping them down the ranks after show jumping. A slightly slower average pace of 7.6 time penalties over Ian Stark courses will cause them to slip a little further. Laine and Anthony Patch will take eighth place with a score less than half a point behind Manoir de Carneville.

9. Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF: Matt and Super Socks BCF have the potential to be in the top 10 this weekend, but only if they run. Matt has been particularly careful about the footing this spring, withdrawing from both Pine Top and Red Hills amid concerns about the ground.

Super Socks BCF has an affinity for this test, with his average of 47.3 almost three points better than his overall average. A tendency to have a rail and one time penalty over Marc Donovan courses will maintain their placing. These two tend to run quickly over Ian Stark courses, averaging only 3.6 time penalties. A final score less than half a point behind Anthony Patch will sew up ninth place for this pair.

10. Buck Davidson and Copper Beach: Buck Davidson has two sets of Advanced horses: the green and the experienced. With four CCI3* under his belt, two of which were overseas, Copper Beach has now crossed into the experienced side of Buck’s stable.

Copper Beach averages a 49.6 on this test, higher than his typical average. A double clear round over Marc Donovan’s course will bump him up. This horse averages 6.8 time penalties over Ian Stark’s courses, which will help him round out the top 10 with a score in the mid-50s.

Boyd Martin and Master Frisky. Photo by Kasey Mueller.

Boyd Martin and Master Frisky at Rolex 2015. Photo by Rare Air Eventing Photography.

THE DARK HORSE

Boyd Martin and Master Frisky: Boyd is bringing Master Frisky out again to compete at his first FEI start since Rolex last year, and it was at this event last year where Master Frisky showed he was a force to be reckoned with.

This horse’s dressage and show jumping averages show he’ll be right in the mix after the first two phases. With no history over Ian Stark courses, the math goes with his overall time penalty score, which is almost 10 additional penalties. However, Boyd made time on this course last year, and his overall 2015 time penalty average was only 2.0 penalties. If Boyd continues to push the pace, this horse will likely crack the top five.

Caroline Martin and Center Stage. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Caroline Martin and Center Stage at Millbrook 2015. Photo by Jenni Autry.

THE SPOILER

Caroline Martin and Center Stage: Center Stage hasn’t competed at this level since Fair Hill last fall, and with a target date of Bramham CCI3*-U25 in June, it’s not surprising that Caroline waited to start his spring season until now.

This horse looks to be extremely promising for Caroline, with strong dressage and show jumping phases. Although he has thus far accumulated an average of 25 seconds over optimum time, he also made the time over the only Ian Stark course he has run at Richland Park CIC3*. If he can match that pace as well as his average on this test and his standard double clear show jumping round, he has the potential to take the whole show.

Kylie Lyman and Da Vinci Code at Fair Hill 2015. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kylie Lyman and Da Vinci Code at Fair Hill 2015. Photo by Jenni Autry.

THE SLEEPER

Kylie Lyman and Da Vinci Code:  Da Vinci Code only moved up to Advanced at Pine Top in February, but he did it with a bang, winning a division of 32 horses on a dressage score in the low 30s, a double clear show jumping round, and a cross country round that clocked in only 13 seconds over the optimum in a division where no one made the time. If they can put in a similar effort this weekend, they should find themselves solidly amongst the top 10.

Buck Davidson and Petite Flower. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Buck Davidson and Petite Flower. Photo by Jenni Autry.

ADVANCED

Number of pairs: 25

Pairs to watch:

  • Buck Davidson and Petite Flower
  • Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby
  • Lauren Keiffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo
  • Boyd Martin and Crackerjack
  • Boyd Martin and Welcome Shadow
  • Ryan Wood and McLovin

2016 Rio Olympic Power Rankings: Round 3

By on Mar 18, 2016 11:00 am -

We’re full swing into the season now, and our Round 3 rankings finally produced some movement. Red Hills and Twin Rivers both held CIC3* events since Round 2, which shuffled the ranks a bit. On top of that, the rolling scores came into effect, with the 2015 Red Hills CIC3* dropping off the board.

Next round we’ll see even more movement, with Carolina International and Poplar Place both hosting CIC3* divisions in the meantime. The West Coast won’t see any movement until after Galway Downs CIC3* at the beginning of April. The unveiling of Rolex entries confirms where many horses are aimed for this spring.

When creating these rankings, we used the following criteria:

  • The horse and rider must have already qualified as a pair at one of the 2015 qualifying events.
  • The average penalty score for each phase is added up to determine each horse’s average completion score.
  • Rankings are calculated using FEI scores in the previous calendar year only, from the three-star and four-star levels.
  • The rankings will be rolling, meaning that scores will be dropped from the averages as they pass the one-year date.
  • Only results as a pair are counted.

Currently 70 U.S. combinations have achieved at least one Olympic qualifier, although five of those pairs are no longer competing together. Pairs not yet qualified will have additional opportunities in 2016 to qualify at Rolex, Badminton, Jersey Fresh, Saumur, Tattersalls, Bromont and Bramham. We’ll list a few pairs at the end of the rankings who have yet to qualify but could certainly be up for consideration if they qualify this spring.

Note: To be considered for an Olympic team, a horse must have been submitted as an applicant to the FEI by Feb. 19, 2016. This list does not reflect whether horses have been submitted for Olympic consideration.

Rewind to: Round 1, Round 2

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen. Photo courtesy of ????

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen. Photo by Samantha Clark.

1. Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Luhmühlen CCI4*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 37.57
  • Number of FEI 3*/4*runs in past calendar year: 4
  • Last round’s ranking: #1

Loughan Glen was scheduled to make his 2016 debut this past weekend at Tweseldown, but unfortunately the event was canceled due to torrential rains. Clark currently has this horse entered at the Belton CIC3* in the middle of April, which they won last year. It’s possible they will re-route to another prep event after getting rained out this past weekend.

2. Tamie Smith and Mai Baum

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 47.28
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5
  • Last round’s ranking: #2

Tamie Smith confirmed to EN that she and Mai Baum’s owners have decided it is in his best interest to forgo competing in a CCI this spring, instead aiming him to do the CICO3* at Great Meadow in July. Mai Baum sustained a minor injury after Fair Hill last fall and is just starting back to work. This decision has been made as to not rush his fitness level and work load as he comes back into full competition shape.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo by Jenni Autry.

3. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*, 2015 Galway Downs CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 50.48
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 6
  • Last round’s ranking: #5

Fernhill Fugitive is proving he is every bit as reliable as his stablemates, winning the Red Hills CIC3* with one of his best dressage scores yet, a double clear show jumping round, and the fastest cross country round of the day. Fernhill Fugitive will bypass Carolina and run next at The Fork CIC3*.

4. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*, 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 51.59
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5
  • Last round’s ranking: #4

Phillip is running Fernhill Cubalawn for the first time in 2016 in the CIC2* at Carolina International. After that, he will go head-to-head with his rapidly improving stablemate Fernhill Fugitive in the CIC3* at The Fork.

Boyd Martin and Master Frisky. Photo courtesy of Kasey Mueller.

Boyd Martin and Master Frisky. Photo courtesy of Kasey Mueller.

5. Boyd Martin and Master Frisky

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*
  • Average completion score: 52.50
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 3
  • Last round’s ranking: #6

Master Frisky hasn’t competed since Round 2 of the Power Rankings but is next entered in the CIC3* at Carolina, followed by an entry in the CIC3* at The Fork.

6. Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 52.90
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 4
  • Last round’s ranking: #7

Like Fernhill Cubalawn, Mighty Nice will be running for the first time this year at Carolina in the CIC2*, followed by a go at The Fork CIC3*.

7. Will Coleman and OBOS O’Reilly

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 53.87
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 3
  • Last round’s ranking: #8

Will Coleman is following a similar strategy as Phillip Dutton, bringing OBOS O’Reilly out for the first time at the Carolina International in the Open Intermediate. He will also move on to contest the CIC3* at The Fork.

8. Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Jersey Fresh CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 54.29
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 7
  • Last round’s ranking: #9

Reggie hasn’t had any runs since Round 2 of the Power Rankings, but he too will be in the CIC3* at Carolina and The Fork.

9. Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Jersey Fresh CCI3*, 2015 Galway Downs CCI3*
  • Average Completion Score: 54.55
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* Runs in past calendar year: 4
  • Last round’s ranking: #3

Meadowbrook’s Scarlett has fallen in the rankings this round to due to the highest dressage score of her short three-star career, along with a slower cross country pace at Red Hills. A double clear show jumping round shows this mare is still on form and should return to her usual ways in the CIC3* at The Fork in April. This mare will be bypassing Rolex to gain additional three-star mileage this spring.

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Jenni Autry.

10. Lauren Kieffer and Veronica

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bramham CCI3*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 54.77
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 4
  • Last round’s ranking: #10

Veronica took the win in the Advanced at Red Hills for a second consecutive year in commanding fashion, adding only time to her dressage score to win by nearly eight points. Next up is a run in the CIC3* at The Fork and then another go at Rolex.

11. Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 55.85
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 2
  • Last round’s ranking: #11

Blackfoot Mystery sat out at Red Hills, but we will next see him in the CIC3* at Carolina and then The Fork.

12. Emily Beshear and Shame on the Moon

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bromont CCI3*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 57.86
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5
  • Last round’s ranking: #12

Shame on the Moon will next be competing in the CIC3* at Carolina, followed with an entry in the Advanced-A division at The Fork.

Jennie Brannigan and Catalina. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Jennie Brannigan and Catalina. Photo by Jenni Autry.

13. Jennie Brannigan and Catalina

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 57.93
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 3
  • Last round’s ranking: #17

Catalina earned quite a boost this weekend earning second place with a dressage score nearly 10 points lower than her scores from last fall and adding only a few time penalties across the country. She is currently entered in the CIC3* divisions at both Carolina and The Fork.

14. Buck Davidson and Copper Beach

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Tattersalls CCI3*, 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score:58.37
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 6
  • Last round’s ranking: #18

Copper Beach earned a boost this week by doing nothing at all. Copper Beach last had a blip on cross country at Red Hills last year, and with the rolling score, it no longer factors into these Power Rankings, boosting his score. We will next see him at the Carolina CIC3* and The Fork CIC3*.

15. Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bromont CCI3*, 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 58.60
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 6
  • Last round’s ranking: #14

Matt once again did dressage with this horse but withdrew before stadium and cross country with concerns about the footing. Hopefully, the footing at the Carolina CIC3* and  The Fork CIC3* will be more to his liking.

16. Boyd Martin and Pancho Villa

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Jersey Fresh CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 59.13
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 3
  • Last round’s ranking: #15

Pancho Villa has yet to compete following the 2015 Pan American Games and is not currently appearing on any entry lists.

17. Marilyn Little and RF Demeter

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bromont CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 59.27
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 7
  • Last round’s ranking: #13

Other than a run in the Wellington Eventing Showcase, Marilyn Little has yet to post entries for this spring. Marilyn confirmed to EN that Demi will have a light spring campaign, likely competing next at Rocking Horse’s Spring H.T. in the first weekend of April.

18. Jon Holling and Downtown Harrison

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 60.15
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 2
  • Last round’s ranking: #16

Jon has this horse currently entered in the CIC3* at both Carolina and The Fork.

Boyd Martin and Welcome Shadow. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Boyd Martin and Welcome Shadow. Photo by Jenni Autry.

19. Boyd Martin and Welcome Shadow

  • Qualifiers: Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 62.60
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 3
  • Last round’s ranking: Unranked

Welcome Shadow is improving every time out, and a fifth place finish in the Red Hills CIC3* just goes to show how quickly this mare is catching up to her other talented stablemates. She’s next entered in the Advanced at Carolina.

20. Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 63.52
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5
  • Last round’s ranking: #19

This horse finished ninth this past weekend in the Red Hills CIC3*, where a pair of rails in the show jumping hurt his overall score. We’ll next see him in Advanced runs at Carolina and The Fork before he takes a crack at his first four-star in April at Rolex.

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot. Photo by Jenni Autry.

TWIN RIVERS & RED HILLS RECAP

At Twin Rivers, Bunnie Sexton and Rise Against placed second to Lauren Billys. In Florida, Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive snatched up the win, with Jennie Brannigan and Catalina finishing second. Welcome Shadow, Fly Me Courageous, Doesn’t Play Fair, Landmark’s Monte Carlo and Mr. Candyman are all qualified pairs that finished inside the top 10. Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot still need to qualify for Rio but made a strong statement at Red Hills, leading the dressage and ultimately finishing in third in their first start at this level since 2014.

Rio Watch List
Combinations currently ranked outside the top 20
(their next competition is listed in parentheses)

  • Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Doug Payne and Vandiver (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Lynn Symansky and Donner (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Buck Davidson and Petite Flower (Carolina CIC3*)

Contenders Not Yet Qualified
 (their next competition is listed in parentheses)

  • Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot (The Fork Advanced-A)
  • Phillip Dutton and Indian Mill (The Fork CIC3*)
  • Will Faudree and Hans Dampf (The Fork CIC3*)
  • Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4 (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Julie Richards and Sandhills Brillaire (Poplar Place CIC3*)
  • Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Allison Springer and Arthur (Carolina CIC3*)

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Mar 16, 2016 12:01 am -
An example of the information Rick helps provide to EN. Thanks Rick! An example of the information Rick helps provide to EN. Thanks Rick!

I’d like to take a minute to give a shout-out to Rick Dunkerton, the ever-present master of EventEntries, who seems to never take a day off during the season. For my database, I check for entry status updates for every big show on a daily (or even hourly) basis in order to stay ahead of my analysis and rarely does a day go by without some sort of update from Rick. Meanwhile, he’s juggling live scores for multiple shows over a weekend, and yet still we see updated entries. As if that wasn’t enough, he has now stepped up to help EN obtain judge dressage percentages for FEI at shows where they aren’t posted anywhere. Thanks for being a Superman, Rick, EN salutes you!

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Pine Top Spring H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Schedule]

Feather Creek Farm H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Copper Meadows H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Holly Hill Farm is stepping up to provide temporary homes to horses displaced by flooding. Bossier City, Lousiana has seen unprecedented flooding in the past few days, and farms have been scrambling to get their horses to higher ground. Holly Hill, which hosts a horse trials in both the spring and fall for Area V, has opened its doors to provide temporary boarding while the floodwaters recede.  [Holly Hill Farm Provides Refuge]

If you are in Lexington, KY at the end of March, check out the documentary on Snowman. The Kentucky Theatre in downtown Lexington is screening an advanced showing of new documentary Harry & Snowman, the story of Harry deLeyer and his indomitable grey Amish jumper. Profits from the March 31st showing will go to the Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center.  [Harry & Snowman]

The Humane Society of the United States Offers Course on Horse Emergencies and Rescues. The Humane Society of the United States will be hosting a daylong certificate course titled Horses 101: Health, Emergencies and Sheltering at the second Honoring the Horse event held at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 11th, 2016. Attendees will learn from leading experts in their field on a variety of issues related to horse care including equine disaster preparedness, trailering safety, cruelty assessment, horse health and nutrition, large animal rescue and everything in between. The event is geared toward equestrians, horse rescue personnel, law enforcement, as well as people who work in the sheltering community. [Animal Care Expo]

Roebke’s Run will host Area IV Championships! In addition to the championships, Roebke’s Run has also added two schooling shows to their schedule, which already include an FEI CCI/CIC and horse trials in June. Organizers felt riders needed the opportunity to practice with young horses, or consider moving up level without having to incur the cost of a recognized show, so added the schooling shows for the benefit of all. [Press Release]

Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation Commits $1.16 Million to Equine Research. The board of directors of Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation has approved a budget of $1,160,556 to fund equine research in 2016.  The 11 new projects funded address an important range of issues, including dorsal displacement of the soft palate, the importance of latency in outbreaks of Equine Herpes Virus-1, foal pneumonia, prevention of strangles, training and surface factors in preventing injury, and underlying mechanisms of disease. The eight projects entering a second year of research include other aspects of pneumonia and EHV-1, plus laminitis, colic, and placentitis. [New Projects]

SmartPak Product of the Day: I’ve been thinking about upgrading my safety vest to an ASTM or BETA certified vest and have been busy trying on all the brands. This Airowear vest is by far the best fit for my body, with room for my chest and tapering for my waste.  [SmartPak]

Ride On Video has been busy uploading video from Twin Rivers a couple weeks ago, so here’s some west coast love!

By the Numbers: Red Hills CIC3*

By on Mar 10, 2016 10:30 am -
Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook's Scarlett at Great Meadow 2015. Photo by Jenni Autry. Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook's Scarlett at Great Meadow 2015. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Red Hills continues to evolve, looking for ways to better serve both riders and spectators to ensure strong participation and big audiences. Their efforts are paying off, with nearly 50 horses entered in the CIC3* and another baker’s dozen in the Advanced, both improvements over last year’s entry numbers.

In an effort to give the riders options while also preserving the chance for an exciting show jumping conclusion, the CIC3* will run with show jumping on Saturday morning before the cross country, while the Advanced division will show jump on Sunday after running the course on Saturday. This is an ideal way to give riders options to do what is best for their horse in their preparations for the spring CCI competitions.

The dressage test will be 2015 FEI 3*-A. The cross country course designer, new for 2016, is Mike Etherington-Smith, and the show jumping course designer is Fuzzy Mayo. Mike Etherington-Smith will also be designing at Great Meadow later this year as well at Plantation Field in the fall. Fuzzy Mayo is exclusively seen at this event.

TOP FIVE

1. Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett: It’s become difficult to bet against Lauren these days. Because Meadowbrook’s Scarlett is strong in all three phases, she consistently appears at the top of the leaderboard, and this week will be no exception.

Meadowbrook’s Scarlett favors this particular dressage test, averaging a 43.5 in the two times she’s executed it. This will be her first time jumping a Fuzzy Mayo course, but she averages only one rail per round at this level. Her biggest strength is across the country, where she averages only 1.6 time penalties. If she matches that across her first Mike Etherington-Smith course, she’ll give Lauren the blue with a score just under 50.

Maya Black and Doesn't Play Fair. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair. Photo by Jenni Autry.

2. Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair: Maya and Doesn’t Play Fair had a stellar run in their first year at Advanced in 2014, then cooled off slightly during 2015. With more experience under their belt, this pair could be the surprise pair of 2016 if they show they can put all the pieces together in one weekend.

Although they haven’t done this particular test yet, Maya and Doesn’t Play Fair average a 48.4 on the flat, which will have them stalking the leaders just after the first phase. Doesn’t Play Fair hasn’t jumped a Fuzzy Mayo course, but he averages one rail per round overall. Across the country, he is quicker than average when Mike Etherington-Smith is the designer, racking up only 3.6 time penalties. Look for these two in second place, with a score in the mid-50s.

3. Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo: Once again, Lauren is bringing multiple horses to the party, and while Meadowbrook’s Scarlett flew under the radar last year, Landmark’s Monte Carlo will be flying under the radar this year. This horse already has some overseas experience under his belt after a season in England with Lauren’s string last fall.

“Patrick” is another who excels at this test, averaging a 47.5, nearly 1.5 points better than his overall average. This horse also averages one rail per round, though this will be his first attempt at a Fuzzy Mayo course. He hasn’t yet seen a Mike Etherington-Smith course, but a quick average of only 5.6 time penalties across the country will serve him well. Lauren will lock up third place with a score in the mid-to-high 50s.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo by Jenni Autry.

4. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive: Fernhill Fugitive is the most experienced of Phillip’s trio in the three-star this weekend. This horse has been blossoming as of late, with his dressage dropping consistently into the 40s and his feet becoming very careful over the colored poles in the latter part of 2015.

Fernhill Fugitive has only done this test once, but he knocked it out of the park with a 43.4, nearly seven points better than his overall average. In his only attempt at a Fuzzy Mayo course, he incurred two rails in what was only his second Advanced. This will be his first crack at a Mike Etherington-Smith course, but an average of 7.2 penalties will still bring him home in fourth place, with a score in the high 50s.

5. Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF: Matt and his stalwart Super Socks BCF are coming here after running just the dressage test at Pine Top, where Super Socks BCF knocked off some rust. Expect this pair to bring their A game after a great finish at Boekelo CCIO3* last fall.

This horse can be hit or miss with this particular test, overall averaging a 50.4 when attempting it. Matt and Super Socks BCF average a rail and 1 time penalty while show jumping, although this will be their first Fuzzy Mayo course. A swift average of only 6.4 time penalties will serve them well as they attempt their first Mike Etherington-Smith course. Look for them to round out the top five with a score just over 60.

Selena O'Hanlon and Foxwood High. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High. Photo by Jenni Autry.

THE SPOILER

Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High: The last time that Selena and Foxwood High attempted this dressage test, at this event last year, they scored a 57.7. Since then, they’ve dropped their dressage average by an astonishing 15 points. In all likelihood, this pair’s final score will be about 15 points below what the numbers predict, putting them up near the very top of the division.

Phillip Dutton and Mr. Candyman. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Mr. Candyman. Photo by Jenni Autry.

THE DARK HORSE

Phillip Dutton and Mr. Candyman: One of the less-experienced horses in Phillip’s three-star string, Mr. Candyman only stepped up to this level for the first time at Millbrook last summer. In his only attempt at a Mike Etherington-Smith course, he accumulated a stop on cross country at Plantation Field CIC3* last fall. However, that stop is his only blemish on his cross country record thus far, and a clean run across the country would put this pair right near the top of the leaderboard.

Phillip Dutton and Sportsfield Candy. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Sportsfield Candy. Photo by Jenni Autry.

THE SLEEPER

Phillip Dutton and Sportsfield Candy: Phillip has another potential star on his hands with the sweetly named Sportsfield Candy, owned by Patricia Vos. Previously ridden by Jenn Simmons, this horse just recently stepped up to Advanced at Pine Top a couple of weeks ago, where he finished in fifth. Simply matching his scores from that show would put this horse up in the top five.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Fernhill By Night. Photo courtesy of Rare Air Photography.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Fernhill By Night. Photo courtesy of Rare Air Photography.

ADVANCED DIVISION

Number of entries: 14

Pairs to watch:

  • Phillip Dutton and Indian Mill
  • Liz Halliday-Sharp and Fernhill By Night
  • Lauren Kieffer and Veronica
  • Sara Kozumplik-Murphy and Catchascatchcan

The Name Blame Game

By on Mar 10, 2016 8:00 am -
Photo by Eric Swinebroad. Photo by Eric Swinebroad.

Since I was in fifth grade, I’ve kept a list of horse names that I’ve collected over the years. Intended originally for the hundreds of racehorses I would co-own with my trainer/breeder husband while I piloted them to victory (thanks, Thoroughbred series), it eventually just morphed into a brainstorming starter for the horses I eventually would own.

I’ve only officially been able to use this list once for the purpose I created it, and I’m currently on track to use it a second time. Like many others out there, I am generally on a tight budget when I get to horse shop. This means I’m pretty focused on acquiring a Thoroughbred, as that is what best fits my wallet.

The first time I shopped, I ended up purchasing a horse named Aiken Pike after the street in Lexington on which he was born. It was fine, but boring. I instantly re-christened him with a new show name and barn name that tied cleverly together, and never gave it another thought.

The second time, well … I haven’t finished shopping yet. But I have looked at some horses with some pretty terrible names but pretty lovely bones, and I’d hate to think that others might walk away from a lovely prospect because they couldn’t afford the fee to change a horrible name.

Why Re-Naming Thoroughbreds Is Not a Non-Issue

The breeders and sellers who are in favor of the FEI’s new $1,000 penalty to change a name seem to be ignoring the quandary of the OTTB owners. They claim that this policy will provide clarity and ensure that the horse’s past is preserved, making it difficult to erase show records through name changes.

When confronted directly regarding the OTTB issue, many of these sporthorse breeders and sellers claim that Thoroughbreds rarely come with papers anyways, so you can feel free to name them whatever you want. This is completely incorrect.

Just because a Thoroughbred doesn’t come with papers doesn’t mean that horse doesn’t have papers. The majority of Thoroughbreds in the U.S. do have papers, regardless of whether or not they are transferred to a new owner. The FEI doesn’t care if you have those papers in hand or not, but they want the name to match those papers regardless. Otherwise, according to the FEI, the fine applies.

Some have suggested that we can just claim the horses were unregistered. Aside from being dishonest, this could be easily disproven using sites like Equineline, Equibase or Pedigree Query, and certainly the FEI knows that most American Thoroughbreds have Jockey Club papers. So after we go through with this charade, we must hope the FEI decides not to crack down on this practice and fine us (or worse) in retrospect.

Let’s talk about the implications of pretending our Thoroughbred is unregistered.

Both the horse registration and life recording forms for the USEF require you to input registered (in this case, the Jockey Club) name of the horse, sire and dam, as well as breed. In order to pretend a horse was not previously registered, I would need to intentionally leave the registered name blank, and additionally also leave sire, and dam blank to avoid being tracked down through the aforementioned databases. Even inputting Thoroughbred as a breed could be a red flag for the FEI, as the majority of them in America do have registration.

So all of a sudden, I’ve erased my horse’s past and made it impossible to track. Isn’t that what we are trying to prevent?

Why the Practice of Name Changing Will Continue

There’s a disconnect about what group of people this fine will actually deter from name changing. The riders and owners who are buying horses from overseas or purpose-bred horses probably have deeper pockets and can afford to change the name despite the steep fee. They’ll complain (as they rightly should, in my opinion), but they will still fork over the money rather than keep the original name if they don’t like it. Some of the sourcers have already stated that they are likely to pay the fee rather than lose the prefix, and ultimately the cost of that would be passed onto the buyer in the price of the horse.

Unfortunately, the group of people who can’t afford it are most likely to be those who are sourcing off-track Thoroughbreds to produce up the levels. Many of these people are young up-and-coming pros, kids looking for a young rider prospect on a budget, amateurs who can only afford one or two horses. A lot of these people have a tight budget, and paying a fine that costs as much as the horse’s purchase price isn’t in the cards. These are the people who will simply be stuck with whatever Jockey Club name the horse originally has.

As we all know, Thoroughbreds can have some of the absolute worst names. Rarely is there any prefix from the breeder included, nor are the breeders gaining any sort of financial advantage by keeping the birth name throughout the life of the horse. So protecting the breeder in the case of Thoroughbreds is a red herring.

Ultimately, the buyers of the warmbloods, imports and purpose-breds will generally continue to change the names while paying the fee. This won’t make the RF, FE, Fernhill, Clifton or Cooley prefixes go away. It will just increase the number of names like Bimbo Collect, Anna’s My Mom, or Decend to Xanadu (all actual Jockey Club names of horses owned by EN readers). And yes, Decend to Xanadu is spelled incorrectly. Do we really think it’s that out of line to allow these horses a new name?

Why the Rule Could be Better Written — And Applied

So, what appears to be the purpose of this fine?

The first reason seems to be to clarify the identity of the horse throughout its past, and ensure that the competition record stays preserved throughout its life. Well, the FEI already does that. Search a horse by their current name in their database and all of their previous FEI show records appear, regardless of what name the horse was showing under at the time. Ta da! Problem solved.

What about a horse who has his name changed four times before he is 6? Well, this fine does nothing to solve that issue unless the owner is actually applying for a passport, at which time the horse would be forced to revert back to the birth name. Or, the owner could just pay $1,000 and change the name. Again. Registering a different name, or even changing it once or twice with the USEA, USDF or USHJA doesn’t trigger the FEI fine. So that practice will continue anyways.

The second reason seems to be to curtail the use of commercial prefixes in horse names. The breeder exception appears not to necessarily be to protect the breeder prefix from confusion with a sourcer prefix, but to differentiate exactly at what point a prefix is deemed ‘non-commercial’ or non-profitable.

At this point we need to discuss what exactly constitutes a commercial prefix. There are two types of commercial prefixes; those provided by companies looking to seek exposure, like fischer, Revitavet or Fleeceworks. There are also commercial prefixes given to horses that have been sourced by certain individuals, such as Fernhill, Cooley or RF. Many of the sourcers have relied on the continuation of their prefix to build their business, essentially creating a brand, and some have even gone as far as writing financial penalties into the sales contract should the prefix ever be dropped.

It has been pointed out that with the rise of sponsorship of championships and arenas and venues, the FEI may have been concerned about competing sponsors with prefixes promoting their brands in the names of horses. The commercial fine may have initially been designed to curb the use of companies including their name in a horse’s name to prevent a situation in which a horse with a Rolex prefix competes in an event sponsored by Longines, for example.

I’m not quite sure why the breeders can be exempt from the prefix fine and the sourcers can’t. Both situations use the prefix to promote themselves, either their breeding abilities or horse-finding abilities. Many breeders are chiming in that there is confusion due to the prefixes because people believe that the prefixes always indicates who bred the horse. To me, that is a matter of educating buyers as to the difference between breeders and sourcers, and not a matter for the FEI to take up.

As stated before, the sourcers will continue to use their prefix, but will unfortunately simply have a financial penalty to do so; the confusion will remain. The breeders also claim frustration when a name is changed to drop the breeder prefix, but they are as equally able to preserve their prefix through the sales contract as a sourcer.

Ultimately, the $1,000 fine is poorly written and poorly applied; Thoroughbred names in particular appeared to have been an afterthought, if that. The fine is large enough to deter people from changing the names on a large group of horses that generally have particularly terrible monikers, and no real advantage to keeping their racing identity. But the fine isn’t large enough to really deter name-changing on the group it apparently targets.

What’s the Best Solution?

The best solution could be to allow one name change from the birth name without incurring any fine. Attempting to change it a second time could incur an even larger fine, which might actually deter even those with deep pockets. This would let people like the Thoroughbred owners drop the truly heinous names, but rein in the practice of re-naming a horse four times.

The sourcers’ prefix should be differentiated from a commercial prefix, with the commercial prefix requiring the fine as it is. The sourcers’ prefix should be permitted either in the one name change clause or perhaps as a one-time licensing fee.

If the breeders’ prefix really needs to have special treatment, the FEI could make the fine applicable only if the horse’s birth name contained a breeder prefix and was altered to exclude the breeder prefix. Everyone could be best served if the breeders imitated the sourcers and included a similar clause in their sales contract prohibiting the removal of the prefix without a heavy financial penalty.

The FEI and all of the National Federations should include the birth name and previous competition name in their database searches. This is no different than the current capability of searching for a horse by sire name.

Better solutions could be found.

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Mar 9, 2016 12:01 am -
Meadowbrook's Scarlett thinks 1.3m fences are nbd, tbh. Photo via USEF High Performance FB page. Meadowbrook's Scarlett thinks 1.3m fences are nbd, tbh. Photo via USEF High Performance FB page.

Yesterday, it was spring! And today it is still spring! I don’t want to jinx anything, but it really is starting to look like winter may have exited stage left, even before Daylight Savings Time. All of a sudden, instead of being a little smug that I don’t have to ride or even be outside, I can’t wait until I can get back on my horse. Or maybe buy a second one.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Southern Pines H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Schedule]

Red Hills International CIC & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Full Gallop Farm March II H.T. [Website] [Entry Status]

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

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

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

Did you know that George Morris apparently taught a three-day clinic in a string bikini? Yeah, me neither! In George Morris’ autobiography, Unrelenting, George Morris opens up about the wild nights, the horses who made him, and the glamour of yesteryear. Check out Jumper Nation’s enticing review.  [Book Review: Unrelenting]

Are you totally clear on how you can accumulate 20 penalties in a combination on cross country? Horse and Hound has created a quiz to test your knowledge. It’s not as easy as you might think. I strongly recommend you take thirty seconds of your day to take this quiz, you might learn something!  [Eventing Quiz]

SmartPak Product of the Day: Guys. I bought these boots by Professional Choice last fall and I. love. them. They stay clean, are impossible to budge, and are super protective. Use them for schooling, cross country, or just for pretty photos. Seriously, they are fab.  [SmartPak]

For comparison’s sake, here is the three-star water from Red Hills last year. With a new course designer this year, it will be interesting to see how similar this year’s complex is.

2016 Rio Olympic Power Rankings: Round 2

By on Mar 4, 2016 11:45 am -

Round 2 of the Power Rankings are upon us, and with Pine Top holding the only CIC3* of the season thus far, there wasn’t much movement from Round 1. A couple horses did move up the ranks but didn’t quite crack the top 20 … yet.

Most of the horses have yet to compete in any FEI competitions yet but have started warming up through various Intermediate and Advanced events, and even the Wellington Eventing Showcase. Before our next round, we’ll have both Twin Rivers and Red Hills to further shake up the rankings, while Rolex entries will begin to trickle in to further reveal everyone’s spring plans.

When creating these rankings, we used the following criteria:

  • The horse and rider must have already qualified as a pair at one of the 2015 qualifying events.
  • The average penalty score for each phase is added up to determine each horse’s average completion score.
  • Rankings are calculated using FEI scores in the previous calendar year only, from the three-star and four-star levels.
  • The rankings will be rolling, meaning that scores will be dropped from the averages as they pass the one-year date.
  • Only results as a pair are counted.

Currently 70 U.S. combinations have achieved at least one Olympic qualifier, although five of those pairs are no longer competing together. Pairs not yet qualified will have additional opportunities in 2016 to qualify at Rolex, Badminton, Jersey Fresh, Saumur, Tattersalls, Bromont and Bramham. We’ll list a few pairs at the end of the rankings who have yet to qualify but could certainly be up for consideration if they qualify this spring.

Note: To be considered for an Olympic team, a horse must have been submitted as an applicant to the FEI by Feb. 19, 2016. This list does not reflect whether horses have been submitted for Olympic consideration.

Rewind to: Round 1

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen take command of the Blenheim Palace CCI3* Dressage Phase. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen at Blenheim CCI3*. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

1. Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Luhmuhlen CCI4*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 37.57
  • Number of FEI 3*/4*runs in past calendar year: 4
  • Last round’s ranking: 1

Clark revealed his game plan to Eventing Nation last week, announcing he has decided to compete at three CIC3* in preparation for the Olympics. With no CCI competition in the crosshairs, Clark will be relying on Loughan Glen’s stellar 2015 record to carry the weight of his selection, using the 2016 season to prove this horse’s excellent form is here to stay. Loughan Glen will not be competing in a three-star until mid-April at Belton Park, with a couple of national shows planned before then.

2. Tamie Smith and Mai Baum

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 47.28
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5
  • Last round’s ranking: 2

Mai Baum is another horse who has yet to compete at all this year, receiving a nice long vacation after his strong but busy 2015 season that concluded with a win in the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International CCI3*. Tamie does not currently have any entries posted for shows beyond Twin Rivers this weekend.

Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook's Scarlett. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett at Great Meadow. Photo by Jenni Autry.

3. Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Jersey Fresh CCI3*, 2015 Galway Downs CCI3*
  • Average Completion Score: 50.33
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* Runs in past calendar year: 3
  • Last round’s ranking: 3

Meadowbrook’s Scarlett began her season at Rocking Horse Winter 2 H.T., winning the Intermediate-A division by adding only 4.0 cross country time penalties to her dressage score of 27.7. She’s currently entered in the CIC3* at Red Hills next week, followed by an entry in the Advanced division at Carolina International and the CIC3* at The Fork in April.

4. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*, 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 51.59
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5
  • Last round’s ranking: 4

Phillip has entered Fernhill Cubalawn in the CIC2* at Carolina International, which is the first time we will see him compete this spring. After that, he will contest the CIC3* at The Fork. Cuba jumped in a 1.30-meter class at HITS Ocala several weeks ago and will be jumping at HITS again next Wednesday.

5. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*, 2015 Galway Downs CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 52.04
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5
  • Last round’s ranking: 5

Fernhill Fugitive just began his season in the Intermediate-A division at Pine Top Advanced, finishing fifth behind stablemates Z and Indian Mill. We’ll see him in each of the three big spring CIC3* at Red Hills, Carolina and The Fork.

6. Boyd Martin and Master Frisky

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*
  • Average completion score: 52.50
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 3
  • Last round’s ranking: 6

Master Frisky just returned to the scene, running a Preliminary with Phillip Dutton in the irons early this month while Boyd Martin mended from his broken collarbone, followed by a fourth place finish in the Intermediate-A division at Pine Top with Boyd back in the saddle. Master Frisky is next entered in the CIC3* at Carolina.

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice at Fair Hill CCI3*. Photo by Jenni Autry.

7. Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 52.90
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 4
  • Last round’s ranking: 7

Like Fernhill Cubalawn, Mighty Nice will be running for the first time this year at Carolina in the CIC2*, followed by a go at The Fork CIC3*. Also like his stablemate, Happy jumped in a 1.30-meter class at HITS Ocala last month and will be back to jump again next Wednesday.

8. Will Coleman and OBOS O’Reilly

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 53.87
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 3
  • Last round’s ranking: 8

Will Coleman is following a similar strategy as Phillip, bringing OBOS O’Reilly out for the first time at the Carolina International CIC2*. EN has confirmed that Oboe will also jump next Tuesday in the $15,000 Ocala Horse Properties Eventing Prix Invitational at Southern Cross Equestrian.

9. Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Jersey Fresh CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 54.29
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 7
  • Last round’s ranking: 9

Ballynoe Castle RM began the year with a win in the Intermediate-D division at Rocking Horse Winter 1 H.T. After a quick jaunt down to Wellington to participate in the Eventing Showcase, Reggie made quick work of the Advanced-B division at Rocking Horse Winter 2 H.T. We will next see Reggie in the CIC3* at Carolina.

10. Lauren Kieffer and Veronica

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bramham CCI3*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 54.77
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 4
  • Last round’s ranking: 10

Veronica started her season with a third place finish in the Intermediate-B division at Rocking Horse Winter 2, adding only 2.8 time penalties to her 24.0 dressage score. Next up is a run in the Advanced at Red Hills, as well as runs in the CIC3* at both Carolina and The Fork.

11. Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 55.85
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 2
  • Last round’s ranking: 11

Blackfoot Mystery started the year with a well-publicized win at the Wellington Eventing Showcase. He followed it up with a fourth place finish in the Intermediate-B section at Pine Top last weekend, adding only cross country time penalties to his dressage score. Boyd will next compete Blackfoot Mystery in the CIC3* at Carolina.

Emily Beshear guides 9 year old Shame on the Moon to a clear round XC at Blenheim Palace CCI3* Photo By Shannon Brinkman

Emily Beshear and Shame on the Moon at Blenheim CCI3*. Photo By Shannon Brinkman.

12. Emily Beshear and Shame on the Moon

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bromont CCI3*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 57.86
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5
  • Last round’s ranking: 12

This mare began her year with a third place in the Intermediate-A division at Pine Top earlier last month, then picked up another third place finish in the Advanced-B section last weekend at the same venue. We will next see her at Carolina CIC3* in a couple of weeks.

13. Marilyn Little and RF Demeter

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bromont CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 58.16
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 8
  • Last round’s ranking: 13

Other than a run in the Wellington Eventing Showcase, Marilyn Little has yet to post entries for this spring. Marilyn confirmed to EN that Demi will have a light spring campaign, likely competing next at Rocking Horse’s Spring H.T. in the first weekend of April.

14. Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bromont CCI3*, 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 58.65
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 6
  • Last round’s ranking: 14

Super Socks BCF finished eighth in the Intermediate-B at Pine Top early in February, then returned to the venue last weekend to just do dressage before withdrawing as planned. Matt will take him next to Red Hills to run the CIC3*, followed up with an entry in the Carolina CIC3*.

15. Boyd Martin and Pancho Villa

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Jersey Fresh CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 59.13
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 3
  • Last round’s ranking: 15

Pancho Villa has yet to compete following the 2015 Pan American Games and is not currently listed on any entry lists.

Jon Holling and Downtown Harrison. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Jon Holling and Downtown Harrison at Boekelo CCIO3*. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

16. Jon Holling and Downtown Harrison

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 60.15
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 2
  • Last round’s ranking 16

Downtown Harrison came out to play in the Intermediate-B division at Rocking Horse Winter 2 H.T., finishing in sixth place. Jon has this horse currently entered in the CIC3* at both Carolina and The Fork.

17. Jennie Brannigan and Catalina

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 60.90
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 2
  • Last round’s ranking: 17

Catalina had a good run around at the Wellington Eventing Showcase, then did the combined test at Rocking Horse Winter 2 H.T., withdrawing before the cross country. Her first real test will be at the CIC3* at Red Hills in two weeks, followed by runs in the CIC3* divisions at both Carolina and The Fork.

18. Buck Davidson and Copper Beach

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Tattersalls CCI3*, 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 62.44
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 7
  • Last round’s ranking: 18

Copper Beach started the year by winning the Intermediate-B division at Rocking Horse Winter 1 H.T., followed by a third-place finish in the Advanced-A division at Rocking Horse Winter 2 H.T. We will next see him at the Carolina CIC3*.

Lauren Kieffer and Landmark's Monte Carlo. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo at Boekelo CCIO3*. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

19. Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 63.73
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 4
  • Last round’s ranking: 19

This gray horse finished second behind his stablemate Meadowbrook’s Scarlett in the Intermediate-A division at Rocking Horse Winter 2 H.T. He next will take a crack at the Red Hills CIC3*, followed by an Advanced run at The Fork.

20. Marilyn Little and RF Quarterman

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bromont CCI3*, 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 63.82
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5
  • Last round’s ranking: 20

RF Quarterman has yet to appear on any entry lists this year.

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights. Photo by LT/HoofClix.com.

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights at Pine Top CIC3*. Photo by LT/HoofClix.com.

PINE TOP RECAP

A few pairs hanging outside the top 20 were out at Pine Top CIC3* recently. Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley made the biggest leap in the rankings, climbing up to 21st place after finishing second. The winner of the division, Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights, are also shooting up the ranks and will continue to do so as the dates begin to roll forward.

Doug Payne and Vandiver proved they should be up for consideration as well, continuing their streak of double clear show jumping rounds. Unfortunately, Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless had a tough weekend due to circumstances mostly out of their control, but will head next to Carolina International to seek redemption.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley. Photo by LT/Hoofclix.com.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley at Pine Top CIC3*. Photo by LT/Hoofclix.com.

Rio Watch List
Top combinations currently ranked outside the top 20
(their next competition is listed in parentheses)

  • Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Doug Payne and Vandiver (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Lynn Symansky and Donner (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Elisa Wallace and Simply Priceless (Red Hills CIC3*)

Top Contenders Not Yet Qualified
 (their next competition is listed in parentheses)

  • Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot (Red Hills CIC3*)
  • Phillip Dutton and Indian Mill (The Fork CIC3*)
  • Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4 (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Julie Richards and Sandhills Brillaire
  • Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless (Carolina CIC3*)
  • Allison Springer and Arthur (Carolina CIC3*)

By the Numbers: Twin Rivers CIC3*

By on Mar 3, 2016 9:00 am -

While Pine Top kicked off the U.S. three-star season last weekend, California is heating up with their own circuit, with Twin Rivers running the first CIC3* on the West Coast this year. While the division is a bit sparse with only four entries, there are some big implications, as Twin Rivers is the final North American FEI event that individuals can earn points towards Olympic rankings. Because the division is so small, I’m only picking the winner today, as well as a pair of horses to keep an eye on in the Advanced division.

The dressage test will be 2015 FEI 3*-B. The cross country course designer is Derek di Grazia and the show jumping course designer is Jose Nava. Derek di Grazia is a prominent designer on both sides of the country, and designs Rolex and Fair Hill among other events. Jose Nava designs exclusively on the West Coast, and most of the pairs here are familiar with his designs.

Barb Crabo and Eveready. Photo courtesy of Sherry Stewart.

Barb Crabo and Eveready. Photo courtesy of Sherry Stewart.

WINNER

Barb Crabo and Eveready: Eveready is entering an astonishing ninth year competing at the three-star level. He first competed at this venue in the CIC3* in September of 2007 and has competed in at least one three-star every year since, except for 2010. In a truly remarkable career, it would be icing on the cake for this pair to win here where it all started.

Eveready has only done this test once, scoring a 52.8 last summer at Rebecca Farm. Although often a clear jumper, this horse does average one rail over Jose Nava’s courses. At Derek di Grazia’s Woodside course in 2013, this pair went clear with only 1 second over optimum time. Matching that pace would give them the win with a score in the high 50s.

Mackenna Shea and Landioso. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Mackenna Shea and Landioso. Photo by Jenni Autry.

ADVANCED DIVISION

Number of entries: 6

Pairs to watch:

  • Mackenna Shea and Landioso
  • Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Mar 2, 2016 12:01 am -
Big changes are afoot at the Kentucky Horse Park. Photo by Samantha Clark. Big changes are afoot at the Kentucky Horse Park. Photo by Samantha Clark.

Oh, is that a new water complex I spy? Or perhaps an old one that has been expanded? Sometimes a sneak peak is almost worse than not knowing at all. I plan on burning up with curiosity for the next two months. Meanwhile, the riders are busy gathering paper work and sending in entries. Opening day of Rolex also means my mouse will be getting some extra exercise, as I click-click-click the refresh button on the Rolex website.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Full Gallop Farm March I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Rocking Horse Winter III H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Sporting Days Farm II H.T. [Website] [Entry Status]

Twin Rivers Winter H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

The new format for Olympic eventing will be decided today by the FEI Eventing Committee. Great Britain, New Zealand, Australia, Germany, the U.S. and France have all formally provided feedback on the proposed Olympic 2020 changes. Stay tuned to EN as we wait for the news on the finalized Olympic eventing format. [Horse & Hound]

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

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

Sam Griffiths really likes sea food. He also has a geography degree, loves gardening, and thinks deep-sea fishing is pretty fun. His brothers are named Mark and Tom, and all three were horsey. One of his nieces is following in his footsteps down in Melbourne.  [Nine Things You Didn’t Know About Sam Griffith]

Behind the Stall Door features on of our own. Mai Baum isn’t just a great competitor, he’s also a gentleman on the ground. Being brushed isn’t his favorite, and spray bottles you can forget about, but he will demand snuggles and adoration if you are in his eyesight.  [Behind the Stall Door]

SmartPak Product of the Day: I had no idea that wet bellies and necks were a despised problem for cooler-users, but if you too hate a wet belly, this will apparently solve all your problems! Someone please let us know how well it works.  [SmartPak]

SmartPak does their best to keep everyone learning a little bit about something every day. In their newest segment, Ask A Vet, Dr. Lydia Gray answers questions submitted by readers.

By the Numbers: Pine Top CIC3*

By on Feb 24, 2016 9:18 am -
Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless at the 2014 World Equestrian Games. Photo by Jenni Autry. Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless at the 2014 World Equestrian Games. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Welcome to the first By the Numbers for 2016! Pine Top is running a CIC3* in February for the first time, which also coincidentally happens to be the very first CIC3* run in the U.S. this year.

Today I’m going discuss who I think our top five finishers in the CIC3* will be, a spoiler who could maintain their pattern of upward trajectory and take the whole thing, and horses to keep an eye on for the two Advanced divisions.

For those who need a refresher from last year, these predicted scores were not pulled from thin air, but are a result of the compilation of a very large database in which I now have recorded every single Advanced, CIC/CCI3* and CCI4* run from every single pair who has attempted the level in the United States since 2013, as well as overseas results for U.S. pairs.

This database contains not just bare scores, but also who the cross country and show jumping course designers were, how long the cross country track was, the surfaces the dressage and show jumping were on, the condition of the ground, which dressage test was performed, and the dressage judges and their respective scores.

Currently, I deal simply in past performance averages. If the rider has experience with the course designer for either cross country or show jumping, or has performed the same dressage test before, I use an average of those scores to compile my final score. Otherwise, I simply use the average of their experience at that level. If the horse has no experience at the level, I do not rank them. This method does not account for improvement in the horse’s record, so I often will make an improving record the dark horse, sleeper or spoiler.

For Pine Top, the dressage test will be 2015 FEI 3*-A. The cross country course designer is Derek di Grazia and the show jumping course designer is Chris Barnard. Derek di Grazia is the designer of Rolex, as well as Fair Hill. Chris Barnard also designs the show jumping at The Fork.

TOP FIVE

1. Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless: Kim and her 2014 World Equestrian Games partner are back on the competition trail and have a good chance of returning with a bang. “Sparky” competed lightly last year and is coming back into form well, winning at Pine Top Intermediate two weeks ago.

Kim and Fernhill Fearless haven’t yet performed this dressage test, but a dressage average of 50.8 should have them stalking the leaders right off the bat. They’ve never had a rail over a Chris Barnard course. The only two times they attempted a Derek di Grazia course have been at CCIs, where they went double clear. Kim may not aim to go quite so fast this weekend, but even sticking closer to their overall average of 4.8 time penalties will snag them the win with a final score just over 50.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley. Photo by Jenni Autry.

2. Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley: Liz and HHS Cooley can never be discounted with all the valuable experience they have from European tracks. When this big gray horse is in the groove, he is as competitive as any in the world.

HHS Cooley favors this test; his average of 44.6 is more than two points better than his overall dressage average. In his two attempts over a Chris Barnard course, he has averaged one rail and 3 time penalties. This horse’s only run over a Derek di Grazia course was at this show last year, where he finished the cross country with only 2.4 time penalties. A final score in the mid-50s will put them easily in second.

3. Doug Payne and Vandiver: A very new partnership last fall, Doug had to be strategic to ensure he obtained his qualifications with this horse. Now we will likely see this pair flex their muscles a bit as they grow comfortable with one another this spring.

Although they haven’t done this test yet, Doug and Vandiver got off to a quick start on the flat, averaging 50.4 in their tests last fall. This will be the first time they test their show jumping prowess over a Chris Barnard course, but they have yet to have a rail in competition at this level. With only 6.8 time penalties over Derek di Grazia’s Fair Hill course, they should be able to make good time this weekend. Look for them in the third position, with a score in the mid-to-high 50s.

Sydney Conley Elliott and Cisko A. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Sydney Conley Elliott and Cisko A. Photo by Sally Spickard.

4. Sydney Conley Elliott and Cisko A: Sydney built quite a solid resume with this horse in 2015 en route to qualifying for their first four-star. With more experience under their belt now, these two will be looking for a solid run to begin the season.

Cisko A has only executed this test once, scoring a career best 49.6 at the Great Meadow International last summer. They jumped a double clear over the only Chris Barnard course they have attempted at The Fork in 2014. When these two tackled Derek di Grazia’s Fair Hill course last fall, they finished with 9.6 time penalties. A similar effort will land this pair in fourth, with a score in the high 50s.

5. Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights: Colleen and her rapidly improving homebred could certainly make waves here. A strong second place finish at the Wellington Eventing Showcase last month proves that the upward trajectory of this horse continues from last year.

This pair has only performed this test once, scoring a 50 at Great Meadow last summer, which is on the high side for them. Covert Rights favors Chris Barnard courses, averaging no rails and 3 time penalties when attempting them. Across Derek’s courses, these two average 9.6 time penalties, although their quickest run over his tracks came at last year’s Pine Top. If they match their averages, they will round out the top five with a score in the low 60s.

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights. Photo by Jenni Autry.

THE SPOILER

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights: Colleen and Covert Rights are sitting just inside the top five right now, but a closer look at their performance record shows that a win isn’t at all out of the question. In 2015, these two dropped their dressage score by a full three points over their 2014 average. They also increased their speed across the country, knocking more than 16 seconds off their average time over optimum.

Although show jumping continues to be a weak spot for them, a double clear at Burghley may have marked a turning point in this phase, recently reinforced by a double clear over the tricky course at Wellington. Don’t be shocked to see this pair in the pole position by the end of the weekend.   

Jenny Caras and Fernhill Fortitude. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Jenny Caras and Fernhill Fortitude. Photo by Jenni Autry.

ADVANCED DIVISION A-A

Number of entries: 4

Pairs to watch:

  • Jenny Caras and Fernhill Fortitude
  • Holly Payne-Caravella and Never OutFoxed
Kurt Martin and Delux Z. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kurt Martin and Delux Z. Photo by Jenni Autry.

ADVANCED DIVISION A-B

Number of entries: 33

Pairs to watch:

  • Emily Beshear and Shame on the Moon
  • Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF
  • Libby Head and Sir Rockstar
  • Kurt Martin and Delux Z
  • Ryan Wood and Frankie

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Feb 24, 2016 12:01 am -
Time to gird your loins, Advanced riders! Photo via Pine Top Eventing FB page. Time to gird your loins, Advanced riders! Photo via Pine Top Eventing FB page.

We’re just getting into the swing of things this season, with Pine Top starting off this Friday with three FEI divisions and two Advanced divisions. Meanwhile, Red Hills, Poplar Place, and Twin Rivers have entry stats up and I find myself hitting refresh every three seconds to check for Carolina. Before you know it, we’ll be stalking the Rolex website, waiting desperately to know who will be making the trek from overseas to contest our only America four-star. It’s better than Christmas!

U.S. Weekend Preview:

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

Three Lakes at Caudle Ranch H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Event riders converge on England to discuss Olympic format changes. With the IOC emphasizing the need to make the sport accessible and entertaining, the FEI has proposed changes in order to better engage the general public. Event riders and delegates from 23 countries met yesterday to try to reach a consensus. [Eventers Meet to Discuss]

Los Angeles has submitted a bid for the 2024 Olympics. While an Olympics in Los Angeles would mark the first time the Summer Games have been held in the U.S. since Atlanta in 1996, three European cities will attempt to bring them back to Europe. Rome, Budapest, and Paris have all also submitted bids, and honestly they all sound like pretty awesome destinations for an Olympic Games.  [Where will the 2024 Olymics Be?]

Connolly’s Red Mills will continue to sponsor the Eventing Ireland SuperLeague this year. Ending at Tattersalls on August 12, the SuperLeague consists of seven legs at Irish events throughout the year. Riders earns points based on the level of class. For a full review of the rules, check out the link.    [Connolly’s Red Mills SuperLeague 2016]

CDCTA is sporting a brand new look this year. For the first time, CDCTA will now be held at Nelson Farm in Berryville, VA, on April 10th and 11th. Organizer Mike Mendell and course designer Jon Wells invite everyone to come on March 20th between noon and 2 p.m. to view to new courses. [CDCTA Open House]

Time to check the whorls on your horse. I never put much stock into the whorls on a horse and what they mean, but apparently it’s a legitimate thing. Whorls on the face in particular can indicate personality patterns while random whirls on the back, barrel, or withers can indicate explosive issues later one.  [Whorolology]

Amateurs Like Us: An Unlikely Horse. Despite competing up through the one-star level as a teen and a lifelong love for horse, Amy Jenne almost quit after a bad fall off a lease horse that wasn’t a good fit after her college years. Still, a horse named Just Tiger, was available, and despite a tentative start, Amy eventually knew she couldn’t walk away. Now Tiger lives with her on her farm, where they ride every day before Amy goes to work.  [Amateurs Like Us]

SmartPak Product of the Day: SmartPak now stocks CocoSoya! This coconut-soybean oil is great for adding weight to a light horse and doesn’t make them hotter either. I used this last summer when my three-star horse dropped a bit too much weight while fitting up, and this stuff worked miracles for him.  [SmartPak]

As soon as I saw that Catch A Star’s new rider, Ada Plumb, was riding a palomino Welsh Pony around Preliminary, I knew I had to see a video. Thanks to RNS, here is your daily dose of cute.

2016 Rio Olympic Power Rankings: Round 1

By on Feb 18, 2016 9:15 am -

Welcome to EN’s first round of Olympic Power Rankings! This series will be a bi-weekly ranking of the qualified American pairs for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games running through the spring and concluding when the team is announced on June 20, 2016.

When creating these rankings, we used the following criteria:

  • The horse and rider must have already qualified as a pair at one of the 2015 qualifying events.
  • The average penalty score for each phase is added up to determine each horse’s average completion score.
  • Rankings are calculated using FEI scores in the previous calendar year only, from the three-star and four-star levels.
  • The rankings will be rolling, meaning that scores will be dropped from the averages as they pass the one-year date.
  • Only results as a pair are counted.

Currently 70 U.S. combinations have achieved at least one Olympic qualifier, although five of those pairs are no longer competing together. Pairs not yet qualified will have additional opportunities in 2016 to qualify at Rolex, Badminton, Jersey Fresh, Saumur, Tattersalls, Bromont and Bramham. We’ll list a few pairs at the end of the rankings who have yet to qualify but could certainly be up for consideration if they qualify this spring.

Note: To be considered for an Olympic team, a horse must be submitted as an applicant to the FEI by Feb. 19, 2016. This list does not reflect whether horses have been submitted for Olympic consideration.

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen flying round the Blenheim CCI3* track to maintain their XC lead. Photo by Shannon Brinkman

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen on their way to the 2015 Blenheim CCI3* win. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

1. Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Luhmuhlen CCI4*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 37.57
  • Number of FEI 3*/4*runs in past calendar year:: 4

This pair was two for two in three-star classes last year, dominating huge fields loaded with talent at Belton and Blenheim. A sixth place finish at a Luhmühlen CCI4* with the lowest dressage average on record  is impressive as well. Loughan Glen will be difficult to ignore if he replicates his 2015 record during his spring campaign.

2. Tamie Smith and Mai Baum

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 47.28
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5

While Loughan Glen flexed his muscles in Europe, Mai Baum was emerging as a rising star here in the States. Winning four of his five three-star starts and dominating a couple of strong East Coast fields proved he was no lightweight. Despite being untested at the four-star level, a stellar spring season will make this pair strong contenders come June.

3. Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Jersey Fresh CCI3*, 2015 Galway Downs CCI3*
  • Average Completion Score: 50.33
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* Runs in past calendar year: 3

Though she represented the U.S. at the Pan American Games last summer, Meadowbrook’s Scarlett is still only lightly tested at the three-star level, with just three starts last year. But two of those three starts were CCI completions where she placed in the top two. If this precocious mare puts in a strong showing moving forward, her consistency could land her on a second team this summer.

4. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*, 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 51.59
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5

Fernhill Cubalawn spent most of 2015 proving his strength across the board, putting in solid phases both here at home at his first four-star and overseas at Aachen. Despite top five finishes at Rolex, Plantation Field and Fair Hill, this horse has yet to have a signature win. Still, being the top ranked ride of team stalwart Phillip Dutton means this horse will get serious consideration if he just maintains his consistency.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo courtesy of Kasey Mueller.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive at the 2016 Wellington Eventing Showcase. Photo by Kasey Mueller/Rare Air Eventing Photography.

5. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*, 2015 Galway Downs CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 52.04
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5

Though overshadowed by his stablemate in 2015, Fernhill Fugitive has been steadily improving across the board. After representing the U.S. at the Pan American Games in Toronto, Fernhill Fugitive emphasized how strong a contender he could be by winning the Galway Downs CCI3*. This horse may need to step up his game on the flat to sneak a spot from his frontrunner stablemate, but he is breathing right down Fernhill Cubalawn’s neck.

6. Boyd Martin and Master Frisky

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*
  • Average completion score: 52.50
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 3

Master Frisky stepped up in a big way in the fall of 2014 with a second place finish at his first CCI3*, then kept up the momentum through the spring with a top ten finish at his first CCI4*. After taking the fall competition season off, Master Frisky is in danger of being overshadowed by his red stablemate Blackfoot Mystery and will need to put in a strong spring to end up as top choice for a rider with a plethora of options.

7. Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 52.90
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 4

Mighty Nice is the most experienced of Phillip’s string, but can struggle with consistency in the show jumping phase. After a relatively quiet spring and a withdrawal after cross country at Rolex due to a stifle injury, Mighty Nice stepped up in the fall to become the Reserve National CCI3* Champion at the Dutta Corp Fair Hill CCI3*. This horse will need to maintain a consistent schedule and avoid rails this spring to dethrone his two stablemates for a shot at the team.

Will Coleman and Obos O'Reilly. Photo by Kasey Mueller/Rare Air Photography.

Will Coleman and OBOS O’Reilly at 2015 Richland Park CIC3*. Photo by Kasey Mueller/Rare Air Eventing Photography.

8. Will Coleman and OBOS O’Reilly

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Rolex CCI4*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 53.87
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 3

OBOS O’Reilly had an extremely strong cross country record last year, with no penalties in any of his FEI events, paired with significantly improved dressage scores. His show jumping, with a rail in two of his three rounds in 2015, may currently be the weakest link but his consistency in cross country with a strong performance in the other two phases builds a case for Rio.

9. Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Jersey Fresh CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 54.29
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 7

Despite being Buck’s top horse in these rankings, Ballynoe Castle RM’s struggles at the World Equestrian Games and at Rolex last year may make him more of a long shot for the team than the numbers show. After Rolex, “Reggie” bounced back and picked up wins at the Jersey Fresh CCI3* and Richland Park CIC3*, but still struggled to be consistent in cross country. But his experience cannot be discounted, and if he completes a flawless spring with a top CCI performance, it will be difficult to overlook him.

10. Lauren Kieffer and Veronica

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bramham CCI3*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 54.77
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 4

At the beginning of 2015, no one thought it odd that Lauren might be representing Team USA on a dark bay mare. No one realized that mare might not be Veronica, a mare who had an average of sub-45 on the flat and no rails last year. Veronica is better on the flat and in the show jumping ring than her stablemate, and when paired with more experience, the nod could still go to her as Lauren’s top Olympic prospect. Making the time across the country is the biggest question mark for this horse.

Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery at the 2016 Wellington Eventing Showcase. Photo by Jenni Autry.

11. Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 55.85
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 2

Boyd didn’t have long to get to know this horse last fall before getting him qualified for the Olympics at Fair Hill, and the partnership will likely only get better. With two rails in both FEI show jumping rounds from 2015, Boyd will be out to improve this horse’s record in the final phase. A double clear over a tough course in Wellington shows that this process has already begun. A spring with a consistently strong show jumping record will go a long way to convincing the selectors to give this horse the nod.

12. Emily Beshear and Shame on the Moon

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bromont CCI3*, 2015 Blenheim CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 57.86
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5

Emily and Shame on the Moon sat quietly under the radar for most of last year, knocking off several top 10 finishes, including a second place at Bromont CCI3* and a third at Richland Park CIC3*. “Delta” is another whose weakest phase is in the show jumping, but with double clear rounds at her last two events of the year, one of which was Blenheim, she may have turned a corner. Her ability to jump clear rounds and stay close to the time across the country will be important this spring in her quest to make a team.

13. Marilyn Little and RF Demeter

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bromont CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 58.16
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 8

RF Demeter is one of the most experienced horses on the scene and up until last year was almost a lock to do well at any given event. Despite still dominating at the CIC3* level as well as picking up a win at the Bromont CCI3*, RF Demeter struggled at key moments during Rolex and Galway Downs. To make the team this summer, RF Demeter will need to prove she is back to her consistent self.

Matt Brown and Supersocks BCF. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF at 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

14. Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bromont CCI3*, 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 58.65
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 6

Matt Brown made the decision last summer to move to the East Coast to better pursue his Team USA goals, and after bringing home a top placing at Boekelo with Super Socks BCF, his gamble has a chance to pay off. This horse will need to prove he can consistently deliver clear show jumping rounds this spring to climb the ranks.

15. Boyd Martin and Pancho Villa

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Jersey Fresh CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 59.13
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 3

Pancho Villa showed he was a real contender by making the Pan American Games team last summer, but his opportunities to make the Olympics team are a bit more slim due to Boyd’s talented string. After sitting out the fall season, Pancho’s name has yet to appear on any entry lists, and he’ll need to get out soon to make a case for himself with so many stablemates gunning for Rio.

16. Jon Holling and Downtown Harrison

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 60.15
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 2

Downtown Harrison has returned to top form at just the right time, and in no time at all reminded us why he was previously selected for a Pan Ams team back in 2011 with Jon Holling. Last fall’s scores seemed as if this horse was just warming up after a long hiatus, and an impressive showing at a CCI this spring could jump this pair up into contention.

Jennie Brannigan and Catalina. Photo by Rare Air Eventing Photography.

Jennie Brannigan and Catalina at the 2016 Wellington Eventing Showcase. Photo by Kasey Mueller/Rare Air Eventing Photography.

17. Jennie Brannigan and Catalina

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Fair Hill CCI3*
  • Average completion score: 60.90
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 2

Catalina popped onto the scene with a bang last fall, stepping up to the level at Plantation Field CIC3* and making her sophomore debut at Fair Hill CCI3*. She is still fairly green compared to some of her competitors, but good showings throughout the spring and a solid CCI result could rocket her up the ranks.

18. Buck Davidson and Copper Beach

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Tattersalls CCI3*, 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 62.44
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 7

Buck has taken his time with this horse, running him in four CCI3* events before thinking about a four-star. Buck’s patience could pay off this spring if they aim for Rolex, as Copper Beach’s experience at the three-star level will make him one of the most prepared horses stepping up to a CCI4* for the first time.

19. Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 63.73
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 4

Lauren stepped her string up in 2015 in a big way, and among her rising stars is Landmark’s Monte Carlo, bred by the indomitable Jacqueline Mars. Despite two CCI3* completions, including one at Boekelo, this horse is still developing in all three phases. With two superstar mares ahead of him to be Lauren’s top Rio prospect, Monte Carlo will have to make a big statement this spring to have a shot at the Olympics.

20. Marilyn Little and RF Quarterman

  • Qualifiers: 2015 Bromont CCI3*, 2015 Boekelo CCIO3*
  • Average completion score: 63.82
  • Number of FEI 3*/4* runs in past calendar year: 5

Our final position in the top 20 is also one of the youngest horses qualified for the Olympics. RF Quarterman showed that the cross country is no issue by completing that phase with no jump penalties at all of his events last year. He is still developing in the other two phases though, with flashes of brilliance showing what he might become in a few years. It’s unlikely he will de-rail RF Demeter as top horse in the barn in time for the Olympics.

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights at the 2016 Wellington Eventing Showcase. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Rio Watch List
Top combinations currently ranked outside the top 20

  • Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley
  • Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights
  • Kim Severson and Cooley Cross Border
  • Lynn Symansky and Donner
  • Elisa Wallace and Simply Priceless

Top Contenders Not Yet Qualified

  • Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot
  • Phillip Dutton and Indian Mill
  • Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville
  • Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4
  • Julie Richards and Sandhills Brillaire
  • Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless
  • Allison Springer and Arthur

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Feb 17, 2016 12:01 am -
I seriously need a ribbon for putting on pants today. Photo via TheHeirloomTomatoes Etsy page. I seriously need a ribbon for putting on pants today. Photo via TheHeirloomTomatoes Etsy page.

Some days I need a pat on the head just for getting out of bed and making it to work like an adult. February is basically an entire month made up of those type of days, and it’s always right about now when it starts dragging. It always feels to me that February is the longest month, despite it actually being the shortest. Therefore I appreciate the sentiments of the above ribbons, which you can buy here, just for doing the arduous task of adulting.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Rocking Horse Winter II H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Paradise Farm H.T. [Website] [Entry Status]

Fresno County Horse Park CIC & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Giving 110% is essential to making it as a professional in this sport. Ashley Kriegel-Trier talks about getting a late start as a professional rider. With a horse who has a bit of disdain for the sandbox, she sometimes feels left behind the other pros who have years at Advanced. Despite that, she knows that she can always work the hardest to continue to try and get ahead. [Bridging the Gap]

The Annual ICP Symposiums have begun. The West Coast sessions ran first this year and Laura Powell recounts her experiences. With teaching flatwork first on the agenda, David O’Connor stresses that instructors need to keep technique, theory, instinct, intuition, and imagination all in mind as they impart concepts to students.  [The Progression of Horse and Rider]

Behind the Stall Door: Rosamunde. Steffen Peters has a new star on the scene, a young mare who is poised to make the Olympic team if all goes well. Rosamunde is a 9 year old Rheinlander who began competing in the small tour in 2014 and stepped up to the Grand Prix divisions last year. She is quite the treat hound in the stables, and knows that the four-wheeler is the best place to snag treats.  [Behind the Stall Door]

SmartPak Product of the Day: The Micklem Competition Bridle has become very popular in recent years and after curiosity, I snagged one for myself. I was pleasantly surprised at the price, since it included rubber reins, and the bridle fit my horse quite well. He seemed to like it, and it is now a favorite for trot sets and hacking.  [SmartPak]

Our YEH champion, SpectraVet Cohiba, returned to the scene with Lynn Symansky last weekend, and our friend Thehorsepesterer got it all on tape.

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Feb 10, 2016 12:01 am -
Let's all play Crack the Hat! Photo via Megan Duffield. Let's all play Crack the Hat! Photo via Megan Duffield.

A team of students at The Royal Agricultural University from across the pond have come up with campaign called Crack the Hat, similar to the Ice Bucket Challenge, to promote the wearing of a riding helmet at all time while mounted. Crack The Hat involves people videoing themselves cracking an egg on their heads or riding helmets, uploading it to the official Crack The Hat Facebook page, nominating friends or family and donating £2 (or dollars!) to the chosen charity, The Injured Jockeys Fund.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Full Gallop Farm February H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Ocala Winter II H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Pine Top Intermediate H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Should U.S. Olympians be wary of attending the Olympics? The Zika virus is quickly becoming a serious threat. The USOC has alerted the national federations of each sport that athletes should make a decision to attend based on their concern for their health. Women athletes who are possibly pregnant or looking to get pregnant should take extra precautions when making this decision. The USOC has not yet officially released a recommendation differing from the alerts issued by the CDC and WHO. [U.S. Athletes Should Consider Skipping Rio]

Charles Owen is pushing the boundaries to reduce concussions. Charles Owens has been one of a few companies to be offered a $250,000 grant from the NFL and UnderArmour to continue development of a new material for helmets. Cardiff University has created a new impact-absorbing material and will be workin in tandem with Charles to create applications to assist in reducing the number of concussions in sport.  [Material to Prevent Brain Injuries Backed by NFL]

Groom Spotlight: Sergio Reyes. Sergio is no stranger to top notch horses, having worked for top racehorse trainer Todd Pletcher for many years. After his daughter was born, he decided to put down roots, and now spends a lot of time prepping horses for Boyd Martin in Pennsylvania. When his charge Blackfoot Mystery won the Wellington Eventing Showcase, Sergio got to take home a piece of the prize.  [Groom Spotlight]

Allie Conrad has a lot of fun and a lot of questions. The executive director and founder of CANTER Mid-Atlantic, Allie hopped a flight from North Carolina and flew down to the Wellington Eventing Showcase. Despite her initial misgivings, she quite enjoyed the experience, but plans to keep her eyes wide open regarding the endgame to expanding the market to certain clientele.  [Sun, Fun And a Few Concerns]

SmartPak Product of the Day: An oldie but goodie, these Tredstep half chaps are the only ones I’ve ever found to combine durability, looks, and function. While not cheap, one pair has lasted me a fair number of years and still looks as good as the first day I put them on. The key is getting the correct size, which may seem way too small the first three times you wrangle them on, but they quickly settle into a great form-fitting feel. [SmartPak]

I for one was supremely disappointed that there was no real Budweiser Clydesdale commercial this year. To console myself, I dug up my favorite one of all time, with a classic twist at the end.

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Feb 3, 2016 12:01 am -
Will Faudree makes a triumphant return to the saddle! Photo via Will Faudree Eventing. Will Faudree makes a triumphant return to the saddle! Photo via Will Faudree Eventing.

Last fall was a bit rough, with the accidents of Andrew Nicholson, Will Faudree, and William Fox-Pitt sitting heavily on our minds. I’m glad to see the return of Will Faudree to the saddle this week for the first time since his accident. All three of these riders has now returned to the tack, and it’s wonderful to see them doing what they love again.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Stable View Winter I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Poplar Place Farm February H.T. [Website] [Entry Status]

Sporting Days H.T. [Website] [Entry Status]

Galway Downs H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

The University of Georgia’s Large Animal Teaching Hospital is temporarily closed after a single horse that was admitted to the emergency service on Jan. 31 tested positive for Equine Herpes-1 virus. The hospital will NOT admit any patients for at least the next two to three weeks as a precaution. Auburn University’s Large Animal Hospital is available to take patients during UGA’s closure. [UGA Temporary Closing]

The deadline to apply for the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover has closed. Almost 500 trainers applied to participate, with a pool of nearly 750 horses. Most of the applicants are professionals, but many amateurs and juniors applied as well. The applicants cover almost all of the states and several Canadian territories and eventers, show jumpers, and show hunters dominated the discipline selections. Final participants will be announced on February 15. [RRP Makeover Application Closes]

The owners of a photo-bombing horse feel cheated out of prize. David and Jacob Bellis went on a walk near their house in Wales and decided to take a photo with a neighbor’s horse. Said horse photobombed the photo, the photo went on to win a holiday for the Bellis’ after David entered it in a contest, and now the owner of the horse is calling foul. Because the horse was the reason the photo won the contest, they feel cheated out of a prize. Talk about some sour grapes.  [Photo Bombing Horse in Wales]

Behind the Stall Door: American Pharoah. America’s favorite racehorse is now snug and secure in his life at Coolmore Stud, where he spends mornings turned out next two Thunder Gulch, the horse who won the Kentucky Derby exactly 20 years before he did. Described as sweet and cuddle, AP is mostly a pretty chill dude and makes it entirely too easy to fall in love with him all over again.  [Behind the Stall Door]

Lauren Sprieser details out how Facebook has changed the process of horse shopping. After putting an ISO ad (In Search Of) up on Facebook, Lauren realized that even something as simple as asking for leads on top quality horses in the US was now seen and judged by everyone. Everyone has an opinion, and on Facebook, everyone states it. Facebook has completely changed the way we do business.  [The Search for Phenomenal]

If you trailer a lot, you should have USRider. Like AAA for horse trailers, USRider is invaluable when you are stuck in a jam. Kentucky Equine Research is giving away a free annual membership and all you need to do is sign up for their e-mail newsletter. Check out the PDF for direction on how to enter the promotion. [Win a USRider Membership with KER]

The USPC Championships have found a new home for 2016. Starting this July, the USPC Championships East will be held at Tryon International Equestrian Center. [USPC Champs to be Based at TIEC]

SmartPak Product of the Day: It’s the time of year where all the horses are sick of wearing blankets, but they still have to wear them for another month or two. If they’re the type that are prone to rubbing the hair off on their shoulders, try a shoulder guard to protect them. [SmartPak]

I may have laughed for three days when I saw. Possibly NSFW, depending on your workplace. But unicorns. And rainbows.

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Jan 20, 2016 12:01 am -
Someone is trying to crash the lecture! Photo via USEF High Performance Facebook page. Someone is trying to crash the lecture! Photo via USEF High Performance Facebook page.

Last week it was E25, this week it’s the E18’s who are soaking up the high performance attention. It’s amazing to see how quickly these two programs have evolved from their inception. With their own exclusive coach in Leslie Law, these riders now have mentors to help guide them in their transition from juniors to young riders, to full blow professional. It might take a little longer than developing a horse to the top levels, but the evolution of our youngest riders is every bit as important.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Poplar Place Farm January H.T. [Website] [Entry Status]

Concerns are rolling in over the readiness of the equestrian events for Rio. There have been delays in refurbishing the Deodoro venue according to sources, but the FEI is monitoring the situation and feels comfortable that they will be ready. FEI representatives will periodically be visiting Deodoro to make sure they are fully aware of the completion of improvements. [Concern’s Over Rio’s Equestrian Venues]

Japan is collecting dressage horses ahead of the Olympics. Japan clinched team qualification at Perl CDI in September and appears to be reloading their aresenal. British Olympic horse Clearwater was secured as Akihiro Shimoda to ride, while Akane Kuroki acquired Toots from the Dutch. Earlier this year, Kiichi Harada obtained a lease on a top German horse called Tiesto.  [Japan Invests in Elite Horses]

Behind the Stall Door: Legolas 92. Be prepared to get the warm fuzzies. Legolas is apparently Mr. Personality at home, who demands attention and pouts when he doesn’t get it. He’s not super fond of the vet, but loves his groom friend Eddie, and enjoys untying Steffen Peters’ boot laces just before a competition.  [Behind the Stall Door]

This week on the Eventing Radio Show: Daisy Trayford and Boyd Martin. Hosts Joe Meyer and Max Corcoran check in with Daisy Trayford, who won the highest division at the first event of 2016 with Normandy Soldier. Boyd Martin chimes in with a report on a new venue up in Aiken and a plan to spend all his lottery winnings. [Eventing Radio Show]

SmartPak Product of the Day: This might be a necessity for jogs, vet boxes, and basically any time a groom needs to spiff up a horse just prior to competing. [SmartPak]

Buck has taken over the ride on Escariz du Rona, the horse he bought for his wife Andrea as a wedding present, while she is pregnant with their first child. We see what you did there, Buck.

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Jan 13, 2016 12:01 am -
Madeline Backus and P.S. Arianna under the watchful eye of Leslie Law. Photo via USEF High Performance FB page. Madeline Backus and P.S. Arianna under the watchful eye of Leslie Law. Photo via USEF High Performance FB page.

You know it’s competition season when the high performance sessions start, and we are kicking off first with the U25 sessions under Developing Rider coach Leslie Law. Two days ago the riders went through their paces on the flat and now they’ve moved onto jumping. I’ve got to give a particular shout-out to my current barn-mate Madeline Backus who rocked around her first Advanced and CIC3* last year at the tender age of nineteen, as well as former barn-mates Avery Klunick and Jacob Fletcher, who all made the list this year. Soak it up!

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Three Lakes January at Caudle Ranch H.T. [Website] [Entry Status]

The march of bad news continue as we hear of the passing of two more four star competitors. Highland Lad, who won the 2002 Burghley under William Fox-Pitt, has diead at the age of 22. Additionally, Chris Burton’s 2008 Adelaide winner Newsprint passed away on January 5th due to liver disease. Both horses were retired in England [WFP’s Second Burghley Winner Dies] [Tribues Paid to Very Special Four Star Event Horse]

HH Azur made a big impression on Chronicle writer Catie Staszak . Catie once had the fortune to meet Barbaro, prior to his win in the Kentucky Derby. She was immediately struck by his presence and had no doubt of his future greatness. Catie hadn’t had the same feeling upon meeting a horse until she laid eyes on McClain Ward’s show jumping mare HH Azur.  [HH Azur is Show Jumping’s ‘It’ Girl]

The CEO of the USEF has left his position. Chris Welton was hired eighteen months ago, but has now left to pursue other interests. In the meantime, William Moroney has been appointed as the interim CEO until the position is permanently filled. Moroney is currently the president of the USHJA.  [USEF Announces CEO Departure]

Matt Brown knows he has to break out of his comfort zone to make it big. Matt has sacrificed a lot in the past year, uprooting his wife and moving across the country while leaving a thriving training business behind to pursue his dream of representing the U.S. Yet sometimes the biggest obstacles are ourselves, and he is now having to learn how to be a salesman as well as a rider, something he has never felt comfortable doing. [The Diary of a Reluctant Salesman]

The Fair Hill Inn is generously donating a portion of their bills to Fair Hill International. On Thursday, January 21, the Fair Hill Inn will donate 20% of your bill to the event if you mention the name “Bodgie” to your server. You aren’t sure who Bodgie is? Then you definitely need to show up and find out! [Fair Hill “Squared” Fundraiser]

New event venue Stable View is holding a fundraiser for the USET. On Thursday, March 3, Boyd and Phillip will hold a Master Class which will be followed by an after party. Tickets are available to both the Masterclass and After Party, or just the Masterclass. All proceeds will benefit the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team in their journey to Rio. [Eventing Aiken]

This week on the Eventing Radio Show: Ben Hobday and Caroline Martin. Hosts Liz Halliday-Sharp and Paul Tapner with U25 rider Caroline Martin, who is building up a string these days. Ben Hobday stops by for an update on his health and competition plans. [Eventing Radio Show]

SmartPak Product of the Day: One thing I’m absolutely a stickler for is having a spare halter around. You never know when you’ll see a loose horse running by your trailer and need to snatch something quick. Or for that matter, when you buy a new horse, might be nice to put a pretty new halter on his head… [SmartPak]

Three-star horse Under Suspection is back in action after a year’s hiatus, now with Hannah Sue Burnett in the irons.

 

 

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Jan 6, 2016 12:01 am -
One of Lainey Ashker's herd likes to trailer au naturale. Photo via Lauren Sherrill's FB page. One of Lainey Ashker's herd likes to trailer au naturale. Photo via Lauren Sherrill's FB page.

The great migration has fully begun, with the eventers who stayed north for the holidays now making their way south. After an unseasonably warm December, the east coast is getting it’s first taste of winter with temperatures finally dipping into the teens. The sharp reminder that it will eventually snow and not just stay temperate for another three months is definitely motivating riders to get on the road.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Ocala Winter I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

The Galway Downs Trifecta Event is being held January 20-24. The Trifecta Event begins with an ICP Symposium with David O’Connor for two days before holding a Sports Psychology Symposium with Shannon Thompson. The fun continues on Saturday with the Area VI Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet with Boyd Martin as the keynote speaker, while a two day clinic is held with Ian Stark, Boyd Martin, and basically every west-coast based top level eventer.  Sign up today! [Trifecta Flyer] [Galway Downs]

A British jockey has been knighted. AP McCoy, a legendary jump jockey who recently retired after a stellar twenty-year career, was knighted at the year end Queen’s New Year’s Honours List. The honor came as a surprise to McCoy, who became the first jockey to be knighted in more than half a century. He shares the distinction only with Sir Gordon Richards, a jockey knighted in 1953.  [AP McCoy Knighted]

Kitty King is a rising star on the British eventing scene. Kitty became the first person to represent Britain at the Europeans in all four levels, beginning with pony, continuing with junior and young rider, and culminating with senior. She credits her success to several different coaches throughout the years, including a dressage stint with Carl Hester. [9 Things You Didn’t Know]

Behind the Stall Door is back, this time with Mr. Medicott. With a truly international resume, Mr. Medicott has certainly made his fair share of headlines, having represented both Germany and the US at international competitions. Check out his softer side, where he loves to be scritched on one specific spot and is totally chill about his rehab schedule. [Behind the Stall Door]

SmartPak Product of the Day: Eskadron open front boots set the standard, but I rarely see them on sale. You’re in luck, as SmartPak currently has a full set of four in their sale section. Snap them up before they go back up in price! [SmartPak]

We all followed along with Alice Dunsdon as she trekked to Australia to keep her dream of competing the same horse in all six CCI4* alive. Now CNN has caught up with Alice to document her incredible journey.

Top Five Equine Performers in Show Jumping in 2015

By on Dec 31, 2015 9:15 am -

This series highlights the top five horses and riders in each phase at the Advanced, three-star, and four-star levels from 2015. While we often recognize greatness over all three phases in our sport, we should also strive to recognize strength in each phase. This series aims to give that recognition, and highlight horses and riders who have had particularly strong years in one phase or another.

Welcome to the third post in our series highlighting the top five horses and riders in each phase at the Advanced, three-star, and four-star levels from 2015. We’ve already looked at top cross country horses and dressage powerhouses among the American and U.S. based horses. Today we pay tribute to the top five show jumping horses of 2015.

To be considered for EN’s Top Five, we first began with horses with at least three show jumping rounds at this level who had no rails the entire year. We then ranked the horses according to which ones averaged the fewest time penalties in this phase. Four horses managed to complete all of their show jumping courses without any time penalties this year.

We then turned to ranking them by the number of rounds they completed clear, with the winner being the horse that jumped the most double clear rounds. For further tie-breakers, the level of show was looked at, and the horse with more CCI runs took the tie-breaker.

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Jenni Autry.

FIFTH PLACE: Veronica

Jump Penalties: 0

Time Penalty Average: 0.17

Number of Rounds: 6

Veronica was extremely impressive this year, jumping six show jumping rounds with no rails. Of her six rounds, four were in divisions where show jumping ran last, and two of those were at a CCI3*.

Lauren debuted Veronica in 2015 at Red Hills Advanced before moving on to the Advanced division at Carolina. At The Fork, Veronica received her only show jumping penalty of the year, a single second over the time.

She then headed overseas for the Bramham CCI3* and produced another double clear round, and Veronica rounded out the fall with double clears at both Aachen CICO3* and Blenheim CCI3*.

Michael Pollard and Cyrano. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Michael Pollard and Cyrano. Photo by Jenni Autry.

FOURTH PLACE: Cyrano Z

Jump Penalties: 0

Time Penalty Average: 0

Number of Rounds: 3

Michael Pollard quickly entered the Pan American Games picture with Cyrano Z after a stellar showing at the Wellington Eventing Showcase in January. Moving on to recognized events, Cyrano Z jumped his first official double clear of the year at Pine Top Advanced.

He then jumped double clear at Carolina International CIC3* before hanging out at the two-star level to obtain Pan Ams qualifications. Returning to the CIC3* level at Great Meadow, the experienced gelding clocked in his final double clear show jumping round of 2015.

Marilyn Little and RF West Indie. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Marilyn Little and RF West Indie. Photo by Jenni Autry.

THIRD PLACE: RF West Indie

Jump Penalties: 0

Time Penalty Average: 0

Number of Rounds: 3

RF West Indie didn’t spend a lot of time at the Advanced level this year, but she quickly proved herself an excellent show jumper. She started with a double clear round at Poplar Place CIC3*, which was her move-up to that level.

At a sloppy Morven Park CIC3*, she produced yet another double clear round before moving on to Fair Hill CCI3*, where she proved that she could do the same after a grueling cross country day in her first CCI3* attempt.

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen at Blenheim. Photo by Samantha Clark.

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen at Blenheim. Photo by Samantha Clark.

SECOND PLACE: Loughan Glen

Jump Penalties: 0

Time Penalty Average: 0

Number of Rounds: 4

Loughan Glen really had a phenomenal year, despite only starting four times at this level. After taking the top spot in our dressage top five, he returns to take the second spot here. In his only Advanced of the year, this gelding started things right in the show jumping phase at Weston Park with a double clear.

He then moved onto Belton Park CIC3*, where a double clear helped to maintain his top ranking after dressage. At Luhmühlen CCI4*, he mastered the bigger heights with another double clear and then proved it was no fluke by doing it again at Blenheim CCI3* in September.

Buck Davidson and Petite Flower at Red Hills. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Buck Davidson and Petite Flower at Red Hills. Photo by Jenni Autry.

FIRST PLACE: Petite Flower

Jump Penalties: 0

Time Penalty Average: 0.0

Number of Rounds: 5

Petite Flower didn’t compete this season after Rebecca Farm, but she still produced the most double clear show jumping rounds of any horse in the country. Beyond that, she hasn’t had a single penalty in the show jumping phase since March 2014. In her entire career at this level, she has only ever had two rails total.

Buck Davidson began the year with Petite Flower at Rocking Horse II in the Advanced before heading to Red Hills Advanced and Carolina International CIC3*, where three double clear rounds prepared her for her first CCI4*. At Rolex, she again proved her jumping prowess with a double clear round before a final run at Great Meadow CIC3* finished up her perfect show jumping year.

Top Five Equine Performers in Cross Country for 2015

By on Dec 30, 2015 9:30 am -
Will Coleman and OBOS O'Reilly at the Blenheim Palace CCI3*. Photo by Shannon Brinkman. Will Coleman and OBOS O'Reilly at the Blenheim Palace CCI3*. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Welcome to the second post in our series highlighting the top five horses and riders in each phase at the Advanced, three-star, and four-star levels from 2015. Yesterday we highlighted the top five dressage powerhouses among the American and U.S. based horses. Today we pay tribute to the top five cross country horses of 2015.

To be considered for EN’s Top Five in this category, we first began with horses that completed every cross country round they started and incurred no jump penalties or frangible penalties in any of their starts; in other words, a perfect jump penalty record for 2015. The horses also needed to have completed at least cross country rounds this season to be considered.

We then ranked the horses according to who averaged the fewest number of time penalties across the country. Two horses managed to complete all of their cross country courses without any time penalties this year. These two horses nominally tied for first, but the tie-breaker was given to the one who managed to stay closer to optimum time.

Boyd Martin and Master Frisky. Photo courtesy of Kasey Mueller.

Boyd Martin and Master Frisky. Photo by Rare Air Photography.

FIFTH PLACE: Master Frisky

Jump Penalties: 0

Time Penalty Average: 2.00

Number of Runs: 3

The 2014 Fair Hill CCI3* runner-up didn’t get a lot of runs this year, but he showed he excelled in the cross country phase at the events he did go to. Boyd Martin began the year with this horse at Carolina International CIC3*, piloting him to a double clear round exactly on the optimum time of 7:05 to finish in second place.

Next up was the The Fork CIC3*, where Master Frisky put in his slowest round of the year, finishing 11 seconds over the optimum time of 6:49 to accumulate 4.4 time penalties. Then at his first CCI4* at Rolex, Master Frisky proved the mud was no issue, rocking around the 11:06 course only four seconds over to finish with just 1.6 time penalties.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn at Aachen. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn at Aachen. Photo by Jenni Autry.

FOURTH PLACE: Fernhill Cubalawn

Jump Penalties: 0

Time Penalty Average: 1.95

Number of Runs: 8

Fernhill Cubalawn spent the year firmly cementing himself in the upper echelon of U.S. horses. This horse started and completed eight cross country rounds and only once did he finish more than 10 seconds over optimum time.

Fernhill Cubalawn began the year at Pine Top, putting in a workmanlike round six seconds over a course of 6:16 for 2.4 time penalties. Next up he earned his first double clear round of 2015 at Carolina International CIC3*, clocking in seven seconds under the optimum time of 7:05. In his final prep for Rolex at The Fork CIC3*, he accumulated 1.6 time penalties before heading to his first four-star to finish only eight seconds over the time on muddy ground.

Millbrook Advanced was his slowest round of the season, as “Cuba” finished 15 seconds over time in his final prep before heading overseas to the Aachen CICO3* for one of the fastest rounds with only 2.4 time penalties. These would be his last penalties of the year, as he put in a quick round five seconds under the optimum time of 6:14 at the Plantation Field CIC3* and followed it up with a round 15 seconds below the 10:00 optimum time at Fair Hill CCI3*.

Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook's Scarlett. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett. Photo by Jenni Autry.

THIRD PLACE: Meadowbrook’s Scarlett

Jump Penalties: 0

Time Penalty Average: 1.36

Number of Runs: 5

This mare was still flying under the radar at the start of the 2015 season, but her ability to consistently perform in all three phases has now made Meadowbrook’s Scarlett a well-known name.

Scarlett began her Advanced career this year at Rocking Horse II, finishing only three seconds over the optimum time of 6:09 in her first try at the level. Proving it wasn’t a fluke, she came to Carolina International CIC3* and put in a round only five seconds over.

Lauren then brought this precocious mare to The Fork, where she put in her slowest run of the season, finishing seven seconds over in the Advanced division. Meadowbrook’s Scarlett then polished off her spring season with a double clear round over the 9:54 course at Jersey Fresh CCI3*, finishing right on optimum time.

She then took some time to represent Team USA at the Pan American Games and had most of the fall season off, before heading west to contest the Galway Downs CCI3*, finishing only two seconds over the optimum time of 10:23.

James Alliston and Parker. Photo by Sally Spickard.

James Alliston and Parker. Photo by Sally Spickard.

SECOND PLACE: Parker

Jump Penalties: 0

Time Penalty Average: 0.0

Average Seconds Under Optimum Time: 17.50

Number of Runs: 4

Parker is arguably the most consistent cross country horse in North America, having last incurred time penalties in March of 2013 and having never incurred a jump penalty in an Advanced career that started in 2010. In fact, only one fluke fall at Rolex in 2012 mars this horse’s otherwise perfect cross country record.

This year was no exception for Parker, as he and James Alliston clocked in a double clear round at Twin Rivers Advanced before heading east to Kentucky. At the Rolex CCI4*, he put in his third consecutive double clear cross country round, coming in 14 seconds under the 11:06 optimum time.

Heading back west in July, Parker put in an astonishingly quick round at the Rebecca CCI3* by finishing a whopping 38 seconds under the 10:41 time, before capping the season at the Woodside CIC3* in October with a leisurely round 14 seconds faster than the optimum time of 6:25.

Will Coleman and Obos O'Reilly. Photo by Samantha Clark.

Will Coleman and Obos O’Reilly. Photo by Samantha Clark.

FIRST PLACE: OBOS O’Reilly

Jump Penalties: 0

Time Penalty Average: 0.0

Average Seconds Under Optimum Time: 14.25

Number of Runs: 4

While Parker has always been quick across the country, OBOS O’Reilly turned over a new leaf in 2015. Previously averaging around 30 seconds over optimum time, Will Coleman turned this horse into a cross country machine that didn’t once incur a penalty in the second phase.

OBOS O’Reilly began the year at The Fork Advanced with a blazing double clear round in his final prep for his first crack at a four-star. He continued on to Rolex CCI4*, completing his first course at this level in the mud two seconds under the optimum to win a two-year lease on a Land Rover Discovery Sport.

Next up was the Richland CIC3*, which OBOS O’Reilly tackled easily, clocking in three seconds early before heading overseas for the first time. At the Blenheim CCI3*, he finished double clear on his dressage score, nine seconds under the optimum time.

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Dec 30, 2015 12:01 am -
And Buck will be filling his own division at Ocala. We call it 'OP-Buck' and 'OP-Everyone Else' And Buck will be filling his own division at Ocala. We call it 'OP-Buck' and 'OP-Everyone Else'

The holidays are over, the relatives have left, and it’s officially time to start stalking the entry lists. Entries for Ocala I, Rocking Horse I, and the new event Three Lakes are all already available. Some old favorites are back after a hiatus, and Buck already has about fifty more entries than anyone else. Does anyone else have some entries to peruse? Bored office workers need something to fill the hours!

U.S. Weekend Preview

Just one more week to go, folks.

Lost a bit of MOJO? Get it back with this week’s Fab Freebie! MOJO is giving away a prize pack containing both wristbands and halter patches, and we think you will really enjoy using them! Enter by midnight on Friday for your chance to win. [Fab Freebie: MOJO]

The USEA needs your help to begin to renew the Frangible Fence Study. Begun in 2009 at the University of Kentucky, the study was put on hold due to lack of funds. Mrs. Jacqueline Mars has generously offered to donate $25,000 towards renewing the study, but only if the USEA can match the amount by January 15th. This amount will allow the study to resume, while fundraising continues. Once renewed, the study will take a total of $160,000 to complete. Please consider contributing to this important research aiming to improve the safety of our sport. [Cross Country Safety Study] [USEA Launches Campaign]

Carleigh Fedorka had a rollercoaster of a year. Despite the incredible highs of winning the dressage division of the RRTP and running her first Training, Carleigh had some rough days…and months…in 2015. In this blog, she puts it all in perspective with the help of an old saying, urging the reader to remember the ups and to let go of the downs. [How Do You Measure A Year]

In a heart-wrenching Groom’s Spotlight, we meet Crystal Lee. Crystal Lee, the long-time groom for dressage rider Jim Koford, was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2014. Since then, she has had three surgeries, yet continues to look forward, eager to ride again. Her two year old Hanoverian, Dragon, keep her company. She urges everyone in the horse industry, rider, groom, or working student, to make time in their schedule for regular check-ups. [Crystal Lee Lives to Ride]

Stephen Bradley is looking to return to the top with a young German Warmblood. Armicor, a 5-year old chestnut gelding with a striking blaze, caught the eye of Stephen while he was in Germany recently. Stephen imported him to the States and is now looking for syndicate owners to share in the journey with Armicor. Please contact [email protected] if you are interested in becoming a syndicate member and would like more details. [Armicor]

SmartPak Product of the Day: These boots are absolutely gorgeous, and I’ve been drooling over them for years. As pretty as they are, I’m not sure I could bring myself to wear them to the barn, but they would sure get a lot of compliments as I walk through the city. [Smart Pak]

Here’s Buck on one of his fifty entries from Ocala 1 last year.

(It wasn’t fifty entries, we exaggerate.)

(Probably.)

Top Five Equine Performers in Dressage for 2015

By on Dec 29, 2015 9:30 am -

Welcome to the inaugural post in our Top Five of 2015 series! This series will highlight the top five horses and riders in each phase at the Advanced, three-star and four-star levels from 2015.

While we often recognize greatness over all three phases in our sport, we should also strive to recognize strength in each phase. This series aims to give that recognition and highlight horses and riders who have had particularly strong years in one phase or another.

Today’s Top Five will highlight the horses that had the five lowest dressage averages in 2015. To be considered for EN’s top five, the horse must have performed at least two dressage tests at these levels. All U.S. horses were considered, regardless of where they are based, as well as all horses who competed at least twice on U.S. soil.

These averages include Advanced scores that have been converted into FEI scores to allow for direct comparison. I’ve included the average in terms of both FEI and USEF scoring, but both scores include all Advanced/3*/4* tests from the year. (As a side note, 15 American horses averaged below the all-important 45.0 mark this year.)

Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti at the 2015 Pan American Games. Photo by Jenni Autry.

FIFTH PLACE: Pavarotti

FEI Average: 42.00

USEF Average: 28.00

Number of Tests: 3

Jessica Phoenix’s Pan American Games partner didn’t play much this year at the upper levels, and in fact didn’t complete an event at these levels. Jessica withdrew him at both Rolex CCI4* and Fair Hill CCI3* after the first phase, and just popped off him on the cross country at Plantation Field CIC3*.

Still, this horse made it known he still excels on the flat, scoring a solid 45.0 (FEI) at Rolex, hunting the leaders at Plantation with a 41.8 (FEI), and putting the heat on Mai Baum with a 39.2 (FEI) at Fair Hill on his personal best score of the year.

Courtney Cooper and Who's A Star. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Courtney Cooper and Who’s A Star at Fair Hill. Photo by Jenni Autry.

FOURTH PLACE: Who’s A Star

FEI Average: 41.85

USEF Average: 27.90

Number of Tests: 3

Who’s A Star is another horse that didn’t get to play much at this level this year, first sidelined by a minor injury just before Rolex, then curtailed in the fall season as Courtney Cooper recovered from a broken leg. His three marks of the year all came early on in his spring campaign.

“Tag” is another horse who improved on each test, beginning with a 30.6 (USEF) at Pine Top Advanced. He broke the 30 threshold at Carolina International, also in the Advanced, clocking in a 29.3 (USEF). It was at The Fork that he really threw down the gauntlet, scoring a 23.8 (USEF) on what would be his final test at this level for 2015.

Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous at Plantation Field. Photo by Jenni Autry.

THIRD PLACE: RF Scandalous

FEI Average: 41.40

USEF Average: 27.60

Number of Tests: 3

We all realized that this mare would be a powerhouse in the first phase when she navigated through a spring season of competitive two-stars undefeated, then moved on to win individual gold in Toronto. Although “Kitty” only completed one event at this level, she laid down three dressage tests that should make you sit down and take notes.

Marilyn Little first piloted RF Scandalous to an astounding 37.6 (FEI) at Poplar Place CIC3*, before laying down a 41.1 (FEI) at Plantation Field to lie second in a huge field. Then they took a trip overseas to Boekelo CCIO3*, where an extremely solid 45.5 (FEI) showed she had the chops to compete with the Europeans on the flat.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum at The Fork. Photo by Jenni Autry.

SECOND PLACE: Mai Baum

FEI Average: 38.97

USEF Average: 25.98

Number of Tests: 6

Mai Baum had an absolute bang-up year, with wins in five of six starts at this level, leading all five of those wins from start to finish. Tamie Smith moved Mai Baum up for his first Advanced test at Copper Meadows, where he scored a jaw-dropping 22.8 (USEF). After a two-star campaign on the East Coast, Mai Baum popped back into mix at Great Meadow CIC3*, laying down a 41.1 (FEI) for third place after the first phase behind Cambalda and Ballynoe Castle RM.

A summer stint at back west reinforced his prowess on the flat, with a 40.5 (FEI) at Rebecca Farm CIC3* and 41.3 (FEI) at Copper Meadows CIC3*. Mai Baum’s second trip to the East Coast produced the final knock-out scores, as he led a huge field at Plantation Field CIC3* with a 38.2 (FEI), then summed it up with a 38.5 (FEI) at Fair Hill CCI3*.

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen at Blenheim. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

FIRST PLACE: Loughan Glen

FEI Average: 36.79

USEF Average: 24.53

Number of Tests: 4

While Mai Baum was busy dominating all across the U.S., Clark Montgomery was smashing fields at some of the biggest events in Europe. Loughan Glen began his season leading an Advanced field at Weston Park with a 24.3 (BEF, equivalent to USEF) before making headlines by being one of two horses to break the 40s mark with a 39.8 (FEI) at Belton Park CIC3* in a massive field of 106.

Next up was Luhmühlen in Germany, where the horse scored a 37.1 (FEI) at his only four-star competition of the year. Loughan Glen ended the season with a bang, leading a field of 101 from start to finish with a dominating 33.8 (FEI) at Blenheim CCI3* to soundly top the dressage charts for 2015.

Wednesday News and Notes from SmartPak

By on Dec 23, 2015 12:01 am -
Tiffany and her mare Diamond Daylilly getting into the Christmas spirit! Photo courtesy of Tiffany Morey. Tiffany and her mare Diamond Daylilly getting into the Christmas spirit! Photo courtesy of Tiffany Morey.

The EN team received this lovely email from Tiffany Morey in Ringoes, New Jersey:

“Just wanted to wish all of you a happy holiday and thank you for all that you do to maintain the best website ever! I visit it multiple times a day, and don’t know what I would do to get my eventing fix without it … Happy holidays!”

Thanks, Tiffany. You sure brightened our day! We hope you have a very merry Christmas indeed!

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Who cares about shows, it’s Christmas!

Don’t miss a chance to clinic with top Australian eventer Bill Levett. Woods Lane Farm in Mt. Airy, Maryland, is hosting Bill for two days of clinics on Jan. 30 and 31. Sessions from three to four riders will range from Beginner Novice to Advanced, and will concentrate on show jumping exercises on Saturday and cross country skills on Sunday. This is your chance to improve your skills over the winter with an internationally renowned 4* eventer. [Bill Levett Eventing Clinic] [Entry Form]

Are you hosting clinics, lessons or special events for eventers this winter? Send in your event listing for EN’s new weekly What’s Going On This Winter series. Be sure to include cost, location, contact information and any forms or flyers you’d like included (see below for a sample event listing). Send listings to [email protected].

Join Peter Gray every week this winter at Wentworth Farm for “Wednesday Gymnastics” working on rider position and improving your horse’s jumping technique. Groups of four, Novice to Advanced, for one-hour sessions of fun! Cost is $75. Please book by phone (253-425-6302) or email 24 hours prior to your lesson. Address is 12345 NW 110th Street, Reddick, FL 32686.

The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has a new member. Tampa Bay Downs has signed on with the TAA, which is the official charity of Rolex Kentucky. Tampa Bay Downs will be providing the opportunity for racehorse owners to donate $5 for each start to assist in the cause of re-homing retired racehorses. The Downs will match the donations provided by the owners.  [Tampa Bay Downs Signs On With TAA]

Bertram Allen has been eliminated from his win at Olympia. Bertram won the Olympia show jumping event in London, but was later eliminated for a small amount of blood on the side of Quiet Easy. Photos in the article reveal tiny spur marks on the side of the horse. Many riders have risen to Bertram’s defense, asking if we are to refrain from ever competing thin-skinned horses. Is a zero tolerance rule what equestrian sport needs, or should the blood continue to be evaluated on a case by case basis? [Bertram Allen Disqualified]

Consider wearing a helmet while handling horses, not just riding. British event rider Gina Ruck was injured after getting kicked in the head while turning out. As a result, she’s urging others to consider wearing a helmet during the occasionally dangerous periods of turn-out and bringing in. A study done by the University of Kentucky Trauma Center shows the idea has merit, as injuries seemed to be evenly split between handling and riding. [Event Rider ‘Lucky to Be Still Be Here’]

SmartPak Product of the Day: It’s probably too late to ship this in time for Christmas, but if you’re like me and tend to give out Christmas gifts in late January, this bracelet could be a good stocking stuffer. [SmartPak]

This is a little long, but the summary is that little girls get sent on a scavenger hunt to find their Christmas gifts….which are ponies.