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Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS Withdraw from Lexington CCI4*-S at the Kentucky Three-Day

By Edited Press Release on Apr 25, 2024 5:41 pm -

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Will Coleman and Hyperion Stud have made the decision to withdraw Chin Tonic HS from the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day.

Coleman said, “I’m sorry to say that Chin Tonic HS will be withdrawn from this year’s Kentucky 4*S. Chin arrived here after a great spring season and is in fabulous form. He’s sound and well, his usual happy and proud self. Despite his wellness, an issue in his carpal sheath has surfaced that could present the possibility of injury were we to compete here, and so we’ve made the obvious and responsible decision to pull him from the competition and explore this issue more fully.”

He continued, “With so much riding on this year, this may seem to have been a difficult decision to make. But it honestly wasn’t. It never is a hard decision to do right by your horse, and protecting them from a potential injury is a responsibility I take very seriously, regardless of our aspirations. Grateful to my team at home, my wife, Chin’s groom Erin Jarboe, and my vets Lisa Casinella and Tim Ober, all of whom have played such a huge role in getting Chin to this point in his career. I am especially thankful for Chin’s owner, Vicky Castegren of Hyperion Stud. She could not be more supportive of this decision, and her always horse-first attitude cannot be commended enough. It is truly an honor to ride for her, as it is for all of my incredible owners. Chin will be back, and I have no doubt he will better than ever when he does return to top sport. Thanks everyone.”

Hyperion Stud’s Vicky Castegren concluded, “We have spent the last 10 years protecting Chin’s health and well-being during his development to the top of the sport. In times when we are given the signs that the horse is not at its absolute best, we must listen. We have been given those signs and we have acted in accordance to what is best for his health and longevity as a horse and athlete. The incredible attention to detail and dedication by Team Coleman Equestrian and everyone involved is second to none and I am deeply grateful for their incredible care and horsemanship.”

Chin Tonic HS will use this time to rest and we look forward to watching Off The Record compete this weekend after a beautiful dressage test on Thursday for the Off The Record Syndicate!

A CCI4*-L Win for Chris Burton at Strzegom

By Edited Press Release on Apr 22, 2024 9:30 am -

Christopher Burton and Clever Louis. Photo by Leszek Wójcik.

Christopher Burton riding Clever Louis triumphed in the CCI4*-L, the most demanding class held during the second leg of Strzegom Spring Open.

Christopher Burton took the lead after the dressage test, kept it with overtime points in the cross country and sealed the victory with a clear performance in the showjumping – 35.4.

Second place went to Pontus Hugosson with Zin Fire – 47.2. The best ride in the cross-country ensured the Swede’s jump from fifth to second position, and even with one knockdown and being four seconds late in the last trial, he kept his second place. Poland’s Joanna Pawlak riding Fantastic Frieda was seventh after dressage, she went clear but late in the cross-country, but despite this moved up to fifth place. Sunday she scored a clear round in the showjumping and finished with 52,4.

The winner of the 4*S was Robin Godel with Grandeur De Lully – 32.0. The Swiss was the runner-up after dressage, he maintained his position after cross despite penalty points for the time, and with a clear showjumping round he secured his first place on the podium. Second went to Andrew Hoy with Vassily De Lassos – 33.4. The Australian representative was eighth after dressage, he moved up to third after a clear but over time cross country, and added nothing during the showjumping. Third place was taken Belgium’s Lara De Liedekerke – Meier with Formidable 62 – 34.0.

The leader after the dressage trial, Germany’s Johanna Marloh on the mare Crazy Carlotta, won the 3*L class after a faultless cross-country and one knockdown in showjumping, with a final score of 31.8. Second place went to her compatriot Mathies Rüder with Bon Ton – 34.8 and third to Swiss Mélody Johner riding Gratte Cielle Peccau with 36.4.

Antonia Baumgart with Lamango was victorious in the 3*S. The German took the lead after a faultless performance in the jumping test, she crossed the cross-country line clear with a slight overtime – 31.1. A very good performance and the second place on the podium belonged to Paweł Warszawski with the Polish-bred mare Hatteria II – 32.7. The pair made no mistakes in their jumping trial, and in the cross-country they only went one second over the optimum time. Third place went to Mélody Johner with Erin – 35.1.

Kane Van Houte from the Netherlands on the horse Guapo 29 won the 2*L competition after a double clear – 34.8. Second belonged to Lara De Liedekerke – Meier with La La Land D’arville – 36.8, and third to Dutch athlete Ilonka Kluytmans with Prince Canna – 38.8.

In the 2*S, the best was Germany’s Mathis Huisinga riding Carlotta – 31.0, before Dutch riders representatives Nick Ros with Ottello Z – 34.0 and Dennis Huits riding Perseverance Luxery from Second Life Z – 35.0.

The Strzegom Spring Open competition determined the winners of ten classes, with over 330 horse-and-rider combinations representing 24 countries taking part.

Strzegom Spring Open II [Website] [Entries] [Timetable] [Scoring] [Live Stream]

Perfect Conditions for the Adelaide Equestrian Festival Finale

By Edited Press Release on Apr 21, 2024 9:45 am -

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The Adelaide Equestrian Festival gates opened at 8am for the TRM Horse Inspections with blue skies and sunshine seeing spectators arriving early in anticipation for the final day of competition.

A morning performance from Guy McLean Horsemanship was welcomed with crowd laughter, applause and cheers as his time with the festival came to an end after a successful four days.

The competition commenced at 10am with the Heritage Grand Stand quickly filling up with eager onlookers. Some late rail drops saw overnight leaders Sam Woods and SS Eight Count drop into fourth place while Olivia Barton and APH Sodoku demonstrated a seamless clear round to take out the 2024 Racing SA CCI3*-L.

It was the Horseland CCI4*-S that followed with a stellar line-up of riders who delivered an exciting midday session. Shenae Lowings took out the win with a gasp-worthy performance with Bold Venture fortunately making a quick recovery following a stumble coming off the back of the Brand South Australia jump.

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It was a nail-biting finish for the Adelaide International CCI5* with David Middleton completing the only clear round of the class which saw the Australian rider take out first place. It was the year 2000 that last saw David win first place at the South Australian event with his then horse, Willowbank Jack. Olivia Barton received second place with a remarkable round in her first ever 5* start with Hollyander HG while Donna Edwards-Smith from New Zealand took out third place.

The Racing SA CCI*3-L Results:

First Place: Olivia Barton and APH SODOKU (AUS) 31.9

Second Place: Olivia Shore and DREAMCATCHER (AUS) 32.4

Third Place: Gemma Tinney and PHS HILTON (AUS) 36.2

Bates Saddle Young Rider Championship: Olivia Shore and DREAMCATCHER (AUS)

Horseland CCI4*-S Results:

First Place: Shenae Lowings and BOLD VENTURE (AUS) 31.8

Second Place: Andrew Cooper and PEPPERJACK (AUS) 43.6

Third Place: Oliver Barrett and SANDHILLS SPECIAL (AUS) 46.9

Pure Steed Grooms Awards: Charlotte Andrews

Adelaide International CCI5* Results:

First Place: David Middleton and WEC IN THE MONEY (AUS) 47.8

Second Place: Olivia Barton and HOLLANDER HG (AUS) 53.4

Third Place: Donna Edwards-Smith and DSE MENDOZA (NZ) 63.3

The Adelaide Equestrian Festival Chair Greg Rolton said the 2024 program was a standout with an excellent display of world-class performances supported by a record-breaking crowd.

“What a fantastic competition that we have just witnessed right here in the heart of the Adelaide CBD. It’s been a pleasure to watch these talented equestrian athletes and their horses compete in our 4-day International event.”

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“For all of our spectators that have joined us here in the Adelaide Park Lands, thank you. And for those who have watched from afar, we also say thank you. Likewise, to our fantastic sponsors and volunteers – without you we wouldn’t have this world-class event to share with the world.”

Adelaide Equestrian Festival [Website] [5* Entries] [Schedule] [Scoring] [Live Stream Replay]

Adelaide Cross Country Day Delivers Standout Performances

By Edited Press Release on Apr 20, 2024 5:00 pm -

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It was a picture-perfect Saturday as South Australia turned on the weather for day three of the Adelaide Equestrian Festival – the RB Sellars Cross Country Day.

The morning kicked off with a Godolphin Cross Country Masterclass in the Gillian Rolton Main Arena. Hosted by Olympian Amanda Ross, the Masterclass was a one-hour showcase guided by the experience and knowledge of a world-class athlete as Amanda workshopped a series of cross country tips and techniques, showcasing the athleticism of five off-the-track Thoroughbreds.

Sam Woods and SS Eight Count. Photo courtesy of Adelaide International.

The Racing SA CCI3*-L cross country saw riders take to the course this morning with clear skies and pristine conditions. Rider Sam Woods and SS Eight Count took out the top spot by a narrow 0.1 margin over Olivia Barton and APH Sodoku.

The Adelaide International CCI5* cross country presented a stellar line-up of riders with the action-packed session seeing Australian rider Olivia Barton and Hollyander effortlessly executing their first ever CCI5* clear and under time, allowing her to jump from seventh after dressage to first place. First-phase leaders Diane Gilder and Your Attorney slipped to second when adding 14.8 time penalties, while first-phase runners-up Andrew Cooper and Hey Arnold picked up an unfortunate 20 penalties to drop to seventh. Ten of the eleven starters completed the phase; just one pair, Sam Woods and Cage Fighter, were eliminated after a horse fall at fence 24B, the second of a double of open corners. Olivia will go into the final phase with two rails and time in hand.

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The Horseland CCI4* cross country rounded out the third day with last year’s winner, Shenae Lowings and Bold Venture taking out the top spot with 27.8.

The Adelaide Equestrian Festival Chair Greg Rolton said the level of athleticism on display across the day was second to none.

“The Adelaide Park Lands were alive with atmosphere as spectators made their way between Victoria Park and Rymill Park to watch on as each incredible rider took to the course. The RB Sellars cross country day was the perfect showcase of what South Australia has to offer. It was a pleasure to see so many families and equine enthusiasts out experiencing this great sport. The challenging course put riders to the test as each athlete put their bodies and horses on the line as we head into the final day of the competition.”

Check out the results in full here. To tune in for the remainder of the competition, check out our viewing guide. Showjumping for the CCI5* will commence on Sunday at 2:45pm local time/1:15am ET/ 7:15am CEST.

Adelaide Equestrian Festival [Website] [5* Entries] [Schedule] [Scoring] [Live Stream]

MARS Bromont Rising U25 Grant Program Returns to MARS Bromont CCI for 2024; Applications Now Open

By Edited Press Release on Apr 16, 2024 12:45 pm -

MARS Bromont Rising Grant Recipients with guest coach Bettina Hoy on the cross-country course at Bromont June, 2023

The MARS Bromont Rising U25 scholarship program, administered by the USEA Foundation, is pleased to announce that up to 10 grants of up to $2,500 each will once again be available for talented young riders aged 25 and under aiming to compete in the MARS Bromont (Quebec, Canada) U25 CCI’s in June, 2024. Highlighting this year’s program is the return of three-time German Olympic team member Bettina Hoy, as a guest coach for 2024.

The brainchild of Bromont organizer Sue Ockendon and the late Steve Blauner; the scholarship program was first offered in 2019 for riders competing at Bromont and at the time Ocala, and was expanded to include Galway Downs in 2022 and 2023. Event horse owner Blauner had the vision of supporting young eventers from the US and Canada who were not yet under the radar of national U25 training programs. Ockendon had long had the dream of offering financial support the youth of the sport, who are the future of Eventing in North America.

A complete training program was devised to help the riders prepare themselves and their horses for competition. The grants assist with travel and entry expenses, but the program also includes classroom sessions with course designers, high performance riders and a dressage test analysis by an 5* FEI judge. Coaching and course walks during the events are also available, in conjunction with riders own coaches.

MARS Bromont Rising grant recipient Sara Schulman (USA) topped the 2023 CCIU252*-L
with Cooley Chromatic at June’s MARS Bromont CCI © Michelle Dunn

Program director, Olympian and FEI judge, Peter Gray acts as a clinician at the event, including his “centreline workshop” on how to make the most of your warm-up and exactly what the judges are looking for movement by movement.

“I’m thrilled the MARS Bromont Rising grants will be offered once again at Bromont this year,” he remarked. “Bromont is such a unique destination with its challenging terrain and world-class courses designed by renowned Derek DiGrazia, and having guest coaches like Bettina Hoy back on board is an incredible opportunity for the athletes.”

Three-time German Olympian and former international coach for Holland, Hoy speaks extremely highly of the program.

“Programs like Bromont Rising, the USEF and USEA’s Developing Rider Programs, Australia’s Next GEN squads, and in Germany the Stiftung Deutscher Spitzensport-supported mentorship program are very valuable, particularly if students are willing to take them on in an immersive way,” Hoy remarked. “Education goes way beyond riding instruction. In future workshops, I would like to add seminars on horse management – how to plan your season, how to structure your fitness program, and proper aftercare to really complete the cycle of looking at the big picture. And of course we need to discuss social license and the use of social media today.”

Following last year’s event, Hoy gave her impressions on the week and in particular the strength of the facility as a preparation ground for the next generation of serious young riders.

“I was very, very impressed by Bromont, full stop. Everyone has put a huge effort into fantastic courses. You know where you are fitness wise, as well as in the education of horse and rider. I think it’s very important that this event stays up to height so we can educate riders about that as well as fitness and technicality.”

Maya Clarkson and Maks Mojo C finished second in the CCI3*-L (combined U25)
at the MARS Bromont CCI 2023. © Michelle Dunn Photo

American young rider Maya Clarkson (23, of Middleburg, VA) received a grant in 2023 and benefited tremendously from the experience. Clarkson rides with American veteran Lauren Nicholson, who has also worked with Bettina Hoy in the past. Nicholson was excited for her student to experience both the ‘team’ atmosphere of the program, as well as learning from outside professionals.

One of the highlights of the week for Clarkson was having direct access to, and input from Bromont’s cross-country course designer Derek DiGrazia (USA), who designed at the Tokyo Olympics and designs for two of the most prestigious CCI5*s in the world: Kentucky (USA) and Burghley (United Kingdom.)

“Being able to have access to Derek DiGrazia was incredible,” commented Clarkson. “I really got a lot out of learning about his philosophy and intentions. He talked a lot about reading the footing and in particular the ground itself. The footing is amazing and the ground has rolls and is really varied. You need to be balanced in your galloping. If you don’t take care of that you could easily have a trip that could create a bad jump. I found myself really riding every stride much more, especially while galloping between the jumps. It has really changed how I ride.”

Clarkson, who finished second overall in the combined U25/CCI3*-L division behind US Olympian Boyd Martin, also mentioned that receiving a prestigious grant such as this has helped legitimize her work and goal of riding at the upper levels.

“Because I applied and received a Bromont Rising grant in 2023, I think it’s even helped my parents understand that there are people out there who will support a rider like me — that it’s worth investing in someone like me who has not been a rider since being a toddler. They are incredibly supportive but it showed them others are out there too!”

Canadian and US U25 riders competing in the CCIU252*-L and CCIU253*-L are eligible to apply. Grant applications are open now and the following deadlines have been updated for 2024:

MARS Bromont CCI June 5-9, 2024

CCIU252*-L and CCIU253*-L

https://bromontcci.com

APPLICATION DEADLINE MAY 6, 2024

Laura Collett and London 52 Delight Crowds with 4* Title at Burnham Market

By Edited Press Release on Apr 15, 2024 9:30 am -

Laura Collett and London 52. Photo via Hannah Cole Photography/Musketeer Events Press Release.

This year’s FEI Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market International Horse Trials CCI-S 4* title went to Laura Collett and her own, Karen Bartlett and Keith Scott’s London 52. The result proved popular with the crowds, who had come to enjoy some great sport and to help celebrate 25 years of eventing in this stunning corner of north Norfolk.

Laura and London 52 add this title at Burnham Market to their incredible resume, which includes Olympic team gold at the Tokyo Games and no less than three 5* titles. They were untouchable throughout the weekend at Burnham Market, taking the lead with an impressive dressage score of 19.8 on Saturday afternoon and flying through the jumping phases with no penalties to add.

“Absolutely delighted with London 52 in all three phases,” said Laura of their performance. “He’s been a total professional. He was on cruise control round the cross country, I had an absolutely amazing ride. I’m very, very lucky to sit on a horse as talented as him and I just have to make sure I don’t mess it up for him!”

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Fellow Tokyo gold medallist, Oliver Townend was amongst those leading the charge to try and get ahead of Laura. With 15 4* titles at Burnham Market to his name, he was keen to make it a sweet 16 but, on this occasion, had to settle for second with Paul and Diana Ridgeon’s Cooley Rosalent. The pair did everything they could, finishing on their dressage score of 23.4. Kitty King and Vendredi Biats completed an all-British top 3, also keeping a clean sheet to finish on a score of 26.1.

This year’s CCI-S 3* class belonged to New Zealand’s Clarke Johnstone, who not only took the win with his own and the Johnstone family’s Domasco but finished with four horses inside the top 7 of a very competitive field.

“I had a very good day today,” said Clarke. “It’s been a busy morning, but my horses all went extremely well – four double clears, which doesn’t happen terribly often. They all loved the ground conditions and the beautiful course, and I was able to really let them all run.”

“I’m just delighted with him,” he added of the winner, Domasco. “He’s quite experienced at this level now and about ready to step up to 4* but it was a quality field, lots of lovely horses, and I couldn’t think of anything he could of done much better for me over the weekend. I had a beautiful round on him and the other horses and couldn’t be happier.”

The top three in the 3* ended up being incredibly close with Clarke and Domasco finishing on a score of 27; Bubby Upton and Its Cooley Time on a score of 27.4 in second; and another of Clarke’s rides, Menlo Park just 0.1 behind in third on a score of 27.5.

The international classes were the climax of a wonderful weekend of sport, which also included a strong schedule of national classes. Fabulous weather, great going, super crowds and some stand-out performances seem a fitting way to mark 25 years of eventing on the site.

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Started by Alec and Emily Lochore back in 1999, they are delighted to still be welcoming the eventing family to Burnham Market. “If you had asked me back in 1999 how the event would progress over the next few years, I would not have anticipated that 25 years later we would have the privilege to watch the world’s elite horses and riders, with so may Olympic medals to their name, galloping around this beautiful corner of North West Norfolk at our event,” said Alec. “The 25 years of sport is great testament the the wonderful army of volunteers and sponsors that enable events such as this to take place.”

Full results from across all the days are available here.

All the action from the weekend’s cross country is available on catch up via your mobile, tablet, TV or desktop with H&C+. Visit the Horse & Country website to find out more.

USEA Names Athletes for 2024 EA21 Regional Programs

By Edited Press Release on Apr 12, 2024 12:30 pm -

Elsa Warble and FE Unlimited. USEA/Lindsay Berreth photo

The United States Eventing Association (USEA) is pleased to announce the athletes selected for the 2024 USEA Emerging Athlete U21 Program (EA21). USEA Young Rider program members aged 21 and under are eligible for the program. The purpose of the USEA EA21 Program is to identify and provide consistent quality instruction to the next generation of elite event riders. The aim is to create a pipeline for potential team riders by identifying and developing young talent, improving horsemanship and riding skills, and training and improving skills and consistency.

Participants in the USEA EA21 Program will have the opportunity to work with USEA Eventing Coaches Program (ECP) coaches that have been selected for each regional clinic by the EA21 Task Force, and the EA21 Director of Coaching, David O’Connor. O’Connor will mentor the ECP coaches selected for the regional clinics and will develop a curriculum that leads to the national camp that he will coach in Ocala, Florida, Dec. 31, 2024-Jan. 4, 2025. The exact location of the national camp will be announced in the coming months, and the national athletes will be selected from the summer regional clinics and announced in the fall.

The USEA will cover the regional clinic cost and stabling fees for all accepted applicants. Applicants will be responsible for their own travel and lodging costs, and will be contacted by the USEA and on-site Young Rider Coordinators with more information and scheduling.

The 2024 EA21 regional clinic venues, dates, and coaches are listed below, along with the athletes selected for each clinic:

*Athletes are listed in alphabetical order per clinic, and the wait lists appear in the order the athletes will be accepted should openings occur at each clinic.

Central Clinic | Longview Horse Park (Kansas City, Missouri) | Tuesday-Wednesday, June 18-19:

Coached by Bec Braitling

Camryn Chung
Ava Davis
Sierra Fishell
Addison Hagan
Megan Hopkins
Scarlett Peinado
Finley Powell
Willow Schwartz
Eva Taylor
Sierra Thomas
Abigail Williams
Brett Youssi

WAITLIST 1: Ava Staton

WAITLIST 2: Katherine Hyndman

WAITLIST 3: Annabelle Friend

East Coast I Clinic | Morven Park International Equestrian Center (Leesburg, Virginia) | Tuesday-Wednesday, June 25-26:

Coached by Shannon Lilley

Emma Armstrong
Sylvia Byars
Emeline Gilbert
Madison Haney
Lizzie Hoff
Samantha Homeyer
Caitlin O’Roark
Audrey Ogan
Eliza Quigley
Adelyn Rinehart
Camila Saenz
Annabelle Sprague

WAITLIST 1: Carlin Keefe

WAITLIST 2: Ruth Rosendaul

WAITLIST 3: Elle Stephenson

East Coast II Clinic | Stable View Farm (Aiken, South Carolina) | Tuesday-Wednesday, July 23-24:

Coached by Emily Beshear

Kate Bell
Hadley Bruce
Grace Dilger
Catherine Frank
Audrey Littlefield
Jillian Newman
Tate Northrup
Lara Roberts
Breeana Robinette
Rebecca Roth
Kelsey Seidel
Devon Tresan

WAITLIST 1: Jake Tessler

WAITLIST 2: Sophia Brady-Owen

WAITLIST 3: Chloe Paddack

West Coast I Clinic | Twin Rivers Ranch (Paso Robles, California) | Tuesday-Wednesday, June 25-26:

Coached by Rebecca Brown

Kayley Batt
Julia Beauchamp Crandon
Lauren Crabtree
Molly Duda
Ella Garcia
Fiona Holland
Jillian Mader
Taylor McFall
Soobin Oh
Nadia Vogt
Elsa Warble
Anna Weston Smith

WAITLIST 1: Brooke Corsaut

WAITLIST 2: Lauren Bebb

WAITLIST 3: Coco Ramkowsky

West Coast || Clinic | Aspen Farms (Yelm, Washington) | Tuesday-Wednesday, August 13-14:

Coached by Rebecca Brown

Shruti Bona
Simone Clark
Gabrielle Curtis
Ella Eisenbarth
Olivia Keye
McLaine Mangum
Harper Padgett
Kaylee Petticord
Abigail Popa
Caterina Ritson
Kendal Smith
Hanni Sreenan

WAITLIST 1: Lizzie Lynch

WAITLIST 2: Brianna Rasmussen

WAITLIST 3: Lorelei Frederickson

“This program has really grown in popularity since its inception and the vast number of applicants exemplifies this,” stated EA21 Task Force founding member and coach, Rebecca Brown. “The EA21 Task Force and coaches are blown away each year with the quality of applicants; the selections are an intense process each year. If you did not get chosen to participate this year, keep applying! Just because you did not make it this year, doesn’t mean you aren’t a great candidate for the following year. We are watching you, rooting for you, and hoping to get you involved in the program in years to come!”

The USEA would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of the USEA EA21 program: Shires Equestrian, Kerrits, Ride iQ, Sidelines Magazine, WeRideTogether

Buy a Mai Baum Hat, Support Strides for Equality Equestrians at Kentucky

By Edited Press Release on Apr 12, 2024 9:30 am -

Tamie Smith poses with Mai Baum, owned by Ellen and Alex Ahearn and Eric Markell. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

To celebrate their victory with Mai Baum at the 2023 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, Tamie Smith and the Ahearn/Markell family are joining forces with Strides for Equality Equestrians (SEE) and the USEA Foundation to raise funds and create a program which helps improve access to eventing for underrepresented members of our community.

As an organization, SEE’s mission is to create a welcoming and open environment for all people who have one thing in common, a love for horses. We seek to grow both allyship and diversity in Equestrian sports by promoting access and inclusion for those who may feel marginalized because of their ethnicity or race. To learn more about SEE, click here.

A simple and elegant baseball cap with the likeness of Mai Baum will be offered for sale for $25 at the USEA booth at the 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, happening April 25-28 at Kentucky Horse Park.

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In purchasing a cap, you will be supporting a Mai Baum SEE Scholarship offered through the USEA Foundation. This program will support experiential internships that promote openness and diversity to young equestrians. All proceeds from the cap sales will be contributed the scholarship.

When asked about the program’s goals, the family responded, “We would love USEA members to buy a cap and for those going to Defender Kentucky this year to wear one. We would like to give others the equestrian opportunity that has changed so many lives. Life sometimes just comes down to giving people a fair shot. That is what we aim to do. If we can use the Mai Baum SEE Scholarship to give the gift of equestrianism to others, we will have succeeded.”

Tamie echoes the importance of giving opportunity saying, “It’s amazing what giving someone a chance can do to their lives and those around them. There was an old saying on TV that ‘opportunity knocks, but you have to open the door.’ We want to help open the doors to Eventing for those who may never have been given that shot. If US Eventing is to going to survive and prosper, we need to expand the opportunity for everyone to participate. There are so many ways to be in and around Eventing. We just need to do our part to help expand the opportunity to do so.

Heather Gillette, co-founder of Strides for Equality Equestrians says “I’m excited to develop a scholarship with the Ahearn-Markell family that will help deserving young equestrians realize there is space for them in Eventing. That they have supporters within the sport, that they have allies who want to help them and that we are invested in their success. This scholarship fits right in with other programs that SEE offers in our effort to grow the sport we love by making it more diverse and welcoming.”

Adelaide Equestrian Festival Offers All-Star Golden Event Ahead of Paris

By Edited Press Release on Apr 11, 2024 9:30 am -

The cross country course at Adelaide runs directly through the city, making for a very unique rider and spectator experience. Photo by Julie Wilson/FEI.

The Adelaide Equestrian Festival will, from 18 – 21 April 2024, deliver a show-stopping 5-star equestrian event as riders from around the country compete against each other in the lead-up to the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.

This prestigious event is the only CCI5* event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and will feature more than 70 equestrian athletes and their impressive horses as they each look to stand-out from the competition in a race to secure a coveted place on the Australian Olympic team and compete on the world stage in Paris this July.

Uniquely located in the heart of the Adelaide CBD, Victoria Park/Pakapakanthi and its surrounding parklands will host the four-day festival showcasing the disciplines of Dressage, Cross Country and Show Jumping.

Greg Rolton of the Adelaide Equestrian Festival said the top-tier, globally recognised event continued to grow in popularity year-on-year. “When you provide an opportunity to see world-class riders take part in eventing that is only witnessed at this level in seven events globally, it doesn’t matter if you’re an equine enthusiast or not – you’ll be drawn into the highly competitive and engaging atmosphere that is the Adelaide Equestrian Festival,” Mr Rolton said. “Last year we welcomed more than 30,000 spectators to the Adelaide CBD parklands and with the family-friendly activations and entertainment offering that we have secured for this year, we anticipate that this number will continue to grow.”

“The incredible skill that these riders have and the raw power and ability of these horses are unmatched. We’re excited to see which riders will be using this event to their advantage in the lead up to the Olympics.”

A free family fun day on Thursday April 18 will see the public invited into the parklands to witness the start of the Adelaide Equestrian Festival with entertainment and interactive activities for all ages.

The 2024 AEF competition timetable includes:

Thursday April 18 – Through the generosity of ResourceCo Thursday is free to attend for all spectators. Watch as the Dressage competition begins, let the kids enjoy school holiday arts and craft activities and free face painting while even your four-legged pooch can have some fun in the parklands OFFICIAL OFFICIAL

Friday April 19 – Pryde’s Easifeed sponsor the Dressage competition. Guests will enjoy entertainment from world-renowned Australian horseman and bush poet, Guy McLean, plus you can opt for a seat in the VIP marquee which includes a sit-down long lunch as you watch the day unfold in front of your eyes

Saturday April 20 – The action and adrenalin of the sponsored RB Sellars Cross Country Day is sure to excite everyone. Enjoy a curated selection of pop-up wine stalls and South Australian hospitality while you witness a team of retired racehorses demonstrate their ability in the Olympic sport of eventing.

Sunday April 21 – The podium places will be decided in the highly anticipated ATCO Show Jumping Day as the final discipline showcased for the festival.

South Australian Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison said: “Adelaide’s beautiful Victoria Park/Pakapakanthi and its surrounding parklands will be hot to trot this April, as we welcome back the Adelaide Equestrian Festival.

“More than 30,000 spectators came out last year to experience the five-star equestrian event – the only one of its kind in the southern hemisphere – which is only set to grow in 2024 as more than 70 riders compete in the lead up to the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics,” Minister Bettison said.

“The elite sporting festival will continue our state’s non-stop event action, cementing South Australia’s reputation as an event destination of choice while injecting valuable dollars into our economy as athletes and spectators stay and play in SA.” Adelaide Equestrian Festival tickets can be purchased at www.adelaideequestrianfestival.com.au.

The competition will also be streamed live on H+C+ (membership or one-time pass required – use code EVENTINGNATION15 to save 15% off an annual memmbership) here.

The CCI5* competition includes a roster of 15 horses and riders; the list can be viewed here. Full entries can be found here.

Adelaide Equestrian Festival: [Website] [Entries] [Live Stream]

Olympic Gold Medalist Custom Made to Be Inducted into the Kentucky Horse Park’s Hall of Champions

By Edited Press Release on Apr 5, 2024 9:30 am -

David O’Connor and Custom Made. Photo courtesy of US Equestrian.

Legendary eventing horse and Olympic gold medalist Custom Made will be posthumously inducted into the Kentucky Horse Park’s Hall of Champions. The 17.1-hand Irish Sport Horse known to many as “Tailor” will be buried in the Memorial Walk of Champions, the final resting place for some of the most famous equine athletes.

“The sport of eventing is an integral part of the Kentucky Horse Park story, and this should be recognized in our Hall of Champions,” said President Lee Carter. “Custom Made is arguably the most decorated horse to compete at the Park, having won the Kentucky Three-Day Event [1995], Badminton Horse Trials [1997] and Olympic gold [2000]. While Custom Made is no longer with us, we are thankful to David O’Connor for allowing future generations the chance to learn the history of this amazing horse.”

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Tailor (Bassompierre x Purple Heather) was foaled in Ireland in 1985. In 1998 he was imported to the United States by owner Joseph Zada of Xandarius, LCC to be a mount for O’Connor. The two captured the hearts of Americans in their first year of partnership by winning the 1995 Kentucky Three-Day Event at the Kentucky Horse Park.

The following year, Tailor and O’Connor finished third in the Badminton Horse Trials (England) and placed fifth individually in the Atlanta Olympic Games. They returned to Badminton in 1997 to secure the win, making Tailor the second American horse ever to win the prestigious competition.

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The remarkable duo achieved their crowning moment at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, winning the eventing individual gold medal. This was the first eventing gold medal for the U.S. in 25 years. They continued a successful career together including the win of the gelding’s final competition at the 2002 Fair Hill International Three-Day CCI4*-L (Elkton, Maryland). He was formally retired at the 2004 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event and was inducted into the United States Eventing Association Hall of Fame in 2009.

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Tailor lived out the rest of his life at Jacqueline Mars’ Stonehall Farm in The Plains, Virginia. He died in October 2019 at the age of 34 with O’Connor by his side, ending a celebrated chapter in U.S. eventing history. “Tailor was the horse of a lifetime,” said O’Connor. “The most powerful horse I have ever sat on and a true gentleman of every sort. He was a great combination of athlete, legend, and friend.”

A public ceremony will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park on April 23 at 5:30 p.m.

Early Look at Roster for Stable View’s April CCI4*-S

By Edited Press Release on Apr 2, 2024 9:30 am -

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

It seems like just yesterday was the Tokyo Olympics. However, now the Paris Olympics are a few short months away. With the United States eventing team yet to be named, there is a lot at stake for competitors this Spring. In addition to the team being named, there are two CCI5*s on the horizon making this a talent-packed entry list.

There are currently 47 riders entered for the CCI4*S at Stable View (April 5-7). The U.S. Tokyo Team riders are all on the roster with different mounts from their Olympic partners. Boyd Martin is entered with Fedarman B and Commando 3. Fedarman B or “Bruno” as he is known in the barn is recently coming off a third-place finish at the Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field only adding some cross-country time to his dressage score.

Doug Payne and Camarillo. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Doug Payne will bring forward three mounts: Quantum Leap, Carmarillo, and Quiberon. “Quantum” is the most experienced of them all and Doug will be looking for a successful run to make his bid for the Paris Team. Phillip Dutton is entered with five mounts. He is entered with Azure, Denim, Jewelent, Possante, and Quasi Cool. Phillip and Z were the winners of the Stable View Oktoberfest Four-Star and Phillip will no doubt be looking to defend his title. His daughter, Olivia, is also entered with Sea of Clouds.

Liz Halliday is no stranger to winning at the Four-Star level. She recently won at Carolina International. She also placed fifth with entered horse, Cooley Nutcracker. In addition to Cooley Nutcracker, she is also entered with Shanroe Cooley. Will Coleman also has three entries for his chance to win some of the prize money. He and Chin Tonic HS are coming fresh off their Eventing Showcase win at Bruce’s Field. Stablemate, Off The Record, wasn’t far behind coming in second. Will is also entered with Diabolo. Buck Davidson has two horses entered: Irish Sport Horse, Cooley Candyman and Holsteiner, Erroll Gobey.

Year-round Stable View resident, Nilson Moreira Da Silva, has his gelding, Elmo, entered for his chance for a home-base win. Andre Parro has two horses entered with both, Carin L and Watusi. Georgia-based, Mary Bess Davis brings forward Imperio Magic. The pair placed sixth at Oktoberfest last fall and will be hoping to only better their placing. Law student, Ema Klugman, also brings forward two mounts with Bronte Beach Z and Slieve Callan Alpha.

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

The four-star line-up is full of riders who are no strangers to being adventurous. Julie Wolfert competed in the Mongol Derby in 2022 and is entered with her horse, SSH Playboy, next weekend. Elisa Wallace is entered with Renkum Corsair and is known for training Mustangs. Briggs Surratt brings forward Corture for his chance for a piece of the prize money.

Canadian riders are also working to get spots on their Paris team. Dana Cooke is entered with her mount, FE Quattro. Colleen Loach is also entered with two of her long-time mounts: Vermont and FE Golden Eye. Representing Great Britain, Lucienne Bellissimo, has two horses entered: Dyri and Tremanton. Irish event rider, Tim Bourke, is also entered with Monbeg Libertine.

Caroline Martin and She’s The One. Photo by Shelby Allen.

2023 Pan American Gold Medalist, Caroline Pamukcu, is signed up with She’s the One. Kentucky-based, Alexandra Knowles, has two shots for the top prize with Morswood and Leo Santos. Sydney Elliot and QC Diamantaire were on the Pan American team last fall and the World Equestrian Games team the year before. No stranger to representing the United States, they will be hoping for some solid results this Spring.

Rounding out the four-star division, Woods Baughman, will bring forward Hopak de Greenbay Z. Ariel Grald is entered with Diara. Jean van Gysel is entered with Eiffel de L’Abbaye. Sydney Solomon has her upper-level mount, Early Review C, entered. Christina Henriksen is planning to bring forward JTH Zest. Finally, Brittany Crandell is signed up with Cooley Almighty.

There will be a lot for riders to accomplish on Helen West and Mark Phillip’s track. It should make for an exciting weekend of sport.

Don’t miss out on your chance to watch this talent-packed field navigate Helen West/Mark Phillip’s Cross Country Course and Chris Barnard’s show jumping track. It is free to come spectate. If you want the VIP experience, there are still VIP Tickets for sale. These tickets are $120 and give ticket holders access to the upstairs of the pavilion with viewing access to the competition, VIP swag, catered lunch by Blue Collard, and drinks.

Alyssa Phillips Nails the Win in Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S at TerraNova

By Edited Press Release on Mar 31, 2024 9:00 am -

Alyssa Phillips (USA) and Oskar took the win of the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S.
Shannon Brinkman Photo

Alyssa Phillips (USA) of Fort Worth, Texas, won the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S at The Event at TerraNova, presented by B&D Builders, at TerraNova Equestrian Center on Saturday aboard Oskar (Coriando x Nicole), a 15-year-old 16.2-hand bay Holsteiner gelding. She also won the Open Preliminary division with Keep Calm (Biscayo x Beauty), a 9-year-old 16.2-hand bay Dutch Warmblood gelding, and placed third in The Estates at TerraNova CCI3*-S with Cornelius Bo (Concours Complet x Charlotte), a 10-year-old 16.2 hand bay Hanoverian gelding. Phillips owns all three horses.

Jessica Phoenix (CAN) of Cannington, Ontario, finished second in the CCI4*-S with Freedom GS (Humble GS x Friedel GS), a 12-year-old 16.1-hand bay Trakehner/Oldenburg gelding.

Lauren Nicholson (USA) of Ocala, Florida, placed third in the CCI4*-S with I’ll Have Another (Gaultjers x Kameja), an 11-year-old 16.3-hand dark bay Latvian Warmblood gelding owned by Brandye Randermann. Nicholson also won the CCI3*-S with Larcot Z (L’arc de Triomphe x Kocote de la Londe), an 11-year-old 16.1-hand bay Zangersheide gelding owned by Jacqueline Mars.

The course’s 34 jumping efforts unrolled invitingly on the TerraNova terrain. Creative technical questions posed stiff challenges, but they offered options that some riders found saved the day.

FEI 3*/4* Course Designer Alec Lochore’s goal was to create a “nice galloping open start to the course.” He said he placed the first combination at fences five and six “so the course would begin with a test but on a really positive, forward stride.”

Jessica Phoenix (CAN) and Freedom GS moved up to finish in second place from fifth after a successful
cross-country round in the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S. Shannon Brinkman Photo

Phillips said that before setting out on the course, some riders were questioning how to ride that combination. “It was designed to be ridden in three and four [strides]. We considered that, but most of us changed our minds and did five and four. It worked out really well.”

The combination led to a big solid oxer constructed of thick logs. The route then required four committed strides on a straight line to a brush open ditch. Riders could tailor the distance by jumping to the left or the right side of a parallel there.

The middle of the course presented a brush oxer and two rails jumped on an angle. At the top of the slope, horses ran immediately down on two strides to the second element. “I wanted the slope to set the horses up so they would just pop over it, and then the riders would be able to sit up and go down to the angle. It’s just about being controlled in this environment,” said Lochore.

Lauren Nicholson (USA) and I’ll Have Another, in 19th place after stadium jumping, finished in third place after cross-country in the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S. Shannon Brinkman Photo

About the last portion of the course, he said, “They’ve really got to get going. They’ve had some technical jumps, and now comes the second last of the really technical jumps. They’ve got a big spread jump at the bottom of the slope, four strides up the slope to this pretty skinny little wedge at the top. Horses can’t see where they’re going to land. They can see that the ground is running away after them, and then they land, and then there are three quite gentle strides down to the frangible rails wedge at the bottom of the hill. This is about power over the first jump, accuracy and bravery over the top jump, and control down the slope.”

Phillips called her experience at TerraNova “wonderful,” adding, “It’s always a treat to come here. Every time I’ve come, new improvements have been made, and they’re all absolutely fantastic. The turf on the cross-country course is the best that I’ve ever seen it, and it made it really fun to run across.

Lauren Nicholson (USA) and Larcot Z earned the win of The Estates at TerraNova CCI3*-S.
Shannon Brinkman Photo

“I appreciate all the effort that everybody involved put into the event – the organizers, the volunteers, the TerraNova staff, the owners – everybody’s put a lot into this venue. People should make this a place they come to every year because it’s a very spectacular venue. I’ll definitely be back next year.”

Events at TerraNova thanks all the sponsors, competitors, owners, volunteers, attendees and staff for joining us for world-class equestrian eventing competition. Join us at TerraNova Equestrian Center for our next event, TerraNova Dressage I CDI4*/USEF Level 5 April 4-7.

The Event at TerraNova (Myakka City, FL) [Website] [Scoring]

Alyssa Phillips Surges Into the Lead After Show Jumping in The Event at TerraNova CCI4*-S

By Edited Press Release on Mar 30, 2024 9:00 am -

Alyssa Phillips (USA) and Oskar move into first place after stadium jumping in the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S.
Shannon Brinkman Photo

Alyssa Phillips (USA) of Fort Worth, Texas, took the lead after show jumping Friday in the CCI4*-S division in The Event at TerraNova, presented by B&D Builders, featuring the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S at TerraNova Equestrian Center. She deftly piloted Oskar (Coriando x Nicole), a 15-year-old 16.2 hand bay Holsteiner gelding, who stood in second after Thursday’s dressage, across course designer Chris Barnard’s flowing 4*-S course.

Phillips also stands third in The Estates at TerraNova CCI3*-S with Cornelius Bo (Concours Complet x Charlotte), a 10-year-old 16.2 hand bay Hanoverian gelding whose comical personality earned him the barn names “Corny” and “Corn Dog.” Phillips owns both horses.

The three top-ranked competitors in the 4*-S resembled a United Nations delegation, with riders representing the United States (Phillips), Canada (Karl Slezak) and New Zealand (Monica Spencer).

Phillips was thrilled with Oskar’s performance and called preparing him for the CCI4*-S “a work in progress because he is a bit stronger when the show jumping phase comes before cross country. I’ve worked really hard on that this winter.”

Karl Slezak (CAN) and Hot Bobo moved up to second place from fifth after a flawless stadium jumping round
in the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S. Shannon Brinkman Photo

She said the 4*-S course was a difficult show jumping track but found that it rode extremely well. “There were spots when you had to wait a bit, but the time was also tight, so you needed to keep the energy throughout the course. At the same time, you needed to get there perfectly so the horse was able to cover the distances. It was a great track and it was really fun to ride around.”

Most riders found the first part of the course relatively clear sailing, but the lines and combinations in the middle posed serious questions. Several riders overreached by trying to finish within the time allowed of 80 seconds. From start to finish, the pace and striding were exacting. The consensus among riders was that the course was a very fair test and that it readied the horses for the cross-country phase on Saturday.

Monica Spencer (NZL) and Artist moved to third place after stadium jumping
in the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S. Shannon Brinkman Photo

This was the first course Barnard has designed at TerraNova Equestrian Center. “I’m a big believer in the standard – making sure that everything’s up to standard, the height, the width, everything,” he said. “Even though it’s early in the season, it’s still a 4*. So I like to make sure that it’s big enough and wide enough. My philosophy is building courses that flow. I just try to have a course that’s big enough, bold enough, and that encourages forward riding.”

Barnard characterized the time allowed as a tool that a course designer has to make the course a bit more difficult. “If you make them be a little swift, then they can’t take their time and get the perfect distance.They’ve got to bear that in mind,” he said. “So when the time is a little tight, the riders tend to rush a couple of bits and pieces and therefore, might make a little mistake or the horse gets a rail down. If the time allowed is a bit generous, then they can all take their time, and a lot of these riders are good enough to manipulate the whole course to have a clear round.”

Lauren Nicholson (USA) of Ocala, Fla., who holds two top-10 standings in the 3*-S, said she enjoyed the course, noting that officials made a good choice to use the Lakeside arena. “It was a great atmosphere to practice jumping our horses in and prepping for our spring three days,” she said. “The course was prepared immaculately, and I’m looking forward to jumping around the cross-country track.”

Lauren Nicholson (USA) and Larcot Z were clear and took the lead after stadium jumping in The Estates at TerraNova CCI3*-S.Shannon Brinkman Photo

Nicholson leads the 3*-S with Larcot Z (L’arc de Triomphe x Kocote de la Londe), an 11-year-old 16.3 hand bay Zangersheide gelding, and stands in seventh position with Landmark’s Jungle’s Gold (Diarado x Jungle Tale), a 9-year-old 16.3 hand bay Holsteiner/Irish Sport Horse gelding. Both horses are owned by Jacqueline Mars.

The Event at TerraNova, presented by B&D Builders, featuring the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S at TerraNova Equestrian Center, concludes Saturday with the cross-country phase, which for the 4*-S begins at 11:30 a.m. ET. Cross country can be viewed on the Horse & Country live stream here; the day will begin with the Blalock Walters CCI2*-S at 8:30 a.m. ET.

The Event at TerraNova (Myakka City, FL) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring] [Live Stream]

Leslie Law Seizes the Lead After Dressage in the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S At The Event at TerraNova, Presented by B&D Builders

By Edited Press Release on Mar 29, 2024 10:30 am -

Leslie Law (GBR) and Lady Chatterly lead after dressage in the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S at
The Event at TerraNova, presented by B&D Builders
Shannon Brinkman Photo

Olympian Leslie Law (GBR) of Ocala, Florida, took a firm lead after dressage on opening day of The Event at TerraNova, presented by B&D Builders, featuring the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S at TerraNova Equestrian Center. A smooth, steady test on Lady Chatterly, a 13-year-old bay mare owned by Jackie and Steve Brown, earned Law a score of 28.5. He was among a diverse field of riders from six nations, five of whom, including him, had two horses in the CCI4*-S division.

Alyssa Phillips (USA) and Oskar are in second place after dressage in the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S.
Shannon Brinkman Photo

Alyssa Phillips (USA) of Fort Worth, Texas, stood in second with a dressage score of 29.3 aboard Oskar (Coriando x Nicole), a 16.2 hand bay Holsteiner gelding. She finished the day leading The Estates at TerraNova CCI3*-S with a score of 25.0 on another of her horses, Cornelius Bo (Concours Complet x Charlotte), a 10-year-old 16.2 hand bay gelding. Phillips owns both horses.

Holding third position was Lucienne Bellissimo (GBR) of Campobello, South Carolina, with Dyri, a 12-year-old 16.2 hand brown Holsteiner/Trakehner gelding owned by Horse Scout Eventing LLC.

Law said “Fleur” (Lady Chatterly’s barn name) was extremely relaxed and supple in the TerraNova environment. “As a result, she worked really through and allowed me to ride a very forward, positive, strong test. I was absolutely delighted with her performance.”

He described her as “a pretty sharp mare. . .We’ve always said if she were in the wild, she would be the last one to get caught by anything because she doesn’t miss anything. She’s a very alert, very sharp and intelligent lady. She knows exactly what’s going on around her. But when it actually comes to the job, she really buckles down and is very workman-like.

Lucienne Bellissimo (GBR) and Dyri stand in third after dressage in the the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S.. Shannon Brinkman Photo

“It’s great to be back here again at TerraNova to see the changes that have happened. It just quite honestly keeps getting better and better. We really enjoy coming here, and I look forward to seeing more changes when I come back in the fall.”

Phillips, who has two additional horses competing in the preliminary division at TerraNova, said she was pleased with Oskar’s test. “He has become so reliable in the ring and is acting as a professional these days. It’s nice to be able to go into the ring and show him off now. I’m really happy with all four of my horses, and I can’t wait to show jump and run around the beautiful cross-country track. They’ve done an amazing job.”

Alyssa Phillips (USA) and Cornelius Bo lead after dressage in the The Estates at TerraNova CCI3*-S.
Shannon Brinkman Photo

Phillips noted that Cornelius is “quite spooky, but he’s a good show jumper. I’ll just be looking to give him a good confident round tomorrow.” She said show jumping is the weakest phase for her other horse, Oskar, when it comes before cross country. “He would actually prefer to show jump last. I’m going to give him the best ride that I can tomorrow and hopefully all the homework we’ve been working on pays off. The only person I’m really trying to beat is myself and to improve on each performance. Obviously, you’d like to jump clear, but I’ll be happy with my horses either way.”

Bellissimo said the TerraNova facility suits Dyri, particularly following a winter in Wellington. “I love that it’s flat here because he hasn’t had a chance yet to get super fit, and he hasn’t seen a hill in many months.” She added that because TerraNova has atmosphere it’s a great environment for the young horses.

The Event at TerraNova, presented by B&D Builders, featuring the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-S at TerraNova Equestrian Center, resumes Friday with the show jumping phase.

Events at TerraNova is grateful for all the wonderful volunteers. TerraNova Equestrian Foundation is donating $20 per volunteer hour worked to Easterseals Southwest Florida.

The Event at TerraNova (Myakka City, FL) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring] [Live Stream]

Blair Castle to Sign off as Host of International Horse Trials After 35 years

By Edited Press Release on Mar 20, 2024 9:15 am -

Photo courtesy of Blair Castle International Horse Trials.

The Blair Castle International Horse Trials will take place at Blair Castle for the last time in 2024.

The event has been hosted at Blair for 35 years and will go ahead this year as planned in a farewell celebration. Alec Lochore, Event Director, Blair International Horse Trials, said: “This event became a phenomenal international success and has had unstinting support from the Blair Castle team.

“Of course, it is the end of an era for everyone involved – sponsors, competitors, volunteers, spectators and many more – and we are determined to sign off with a tremendous celebration at this year’s event in August.

“At this stage it is too early to say what the future holds. There are a significant number of equestrian bodies involved and discussions to explore options will have to take place. The equestrian community is extremely grateful to the Blair Castle team for its outstanding commitment over so many years.”

Chuffy Clarke and Second Supreme in Event Rider Masters competition at Blair Castle (2018). Photo by Ben Clark.

The farmland on which the trials are held is increasing its involvement in regenerative agriculture and in future the land will require to be managed all year round in a way that is in accordance with its environmental aims.

Bertie Troughton, Resident Trustee of Blair Castle, said: “It has been a great pleasure and privilege being at the centre of Scottish equestrianism for so many years. We are bowing out after this year with huge gratitude to everyone who made the event so special. We are looking forward to hosting a fantastic event later this year which will be a fitting tribute to hosting the event for 35 years.”

All arrangements for entries and competitors for the Defender Blair Castle International Horse Trials 2024 between August 22 and 25 are unchanged. Full details are available on the horse trials website: www.blairhorsetrials.co.uk

Double the Fun for the Spirit Award Contests at the 2024 USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Eventing Championships

By Edited Press Release on Mar 19, 2024 12:30 pm -

The 2023 Spirit Award Champions at the USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championship: University of Kentucky. USEA/Shelby Allen photo

The coveted Spirit Award, which originated from the USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championship and quickly became as important as the competition itself, will be returning this year with double the excitement at the 2024 USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Eventing Championships! With the two program championships merging for the first time, the organizing team at Stable View is committed to making the weekend an unforgettable experience for these middle school, high school, and undergraduate students.

Separate Spirit Contests will be offered for each program, and Stable View has generously donated perpetual trophies for the two contest champions. The 2024 USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Championships will be held at the Stable View Local Charities H.T. on May 4-5, 2024 in Aiken, South Carolina. Click here to learn more and prepare to enter on opening day tomorrow, Tuesday, March 19!

As per tradition, the Spirit Award contests will be assessed by Affiliate, meaning each college or university in the Intercollegiate Eventing Program, or each club in the IEL program, will be competing as one, rather than each Championship team of 3-4 riders being assessed alone. For example, all of the members of the University of Kentucky team won the Spirit Award at the 2023 Championship.

For each program, Stable View will determine 1st through 3rd place winners based on the cumulative results of the following spirit activities and attributes: Barn Decorations, Hobby Horse Contest, Mechanical Bull Riding Contest, Pavilion Window Decorations, and Overall Spirit, Sportsmanship, and Camaraderie.

Photo by Shelby Allen.

Barn Decorating Contest

The barn decorating contest has traditionally been a staple of the Intercollegiate Eventing Championships, and it gives the teams a chance to flex their creativity while promoting their group to the rest of the competitors.

Whether it be life-size cutouts of each horse’s head gracing the outside of their stalls, fast facts on each horse and rider combo scattered through the barn, streamers and balloons in the team’s signature colors, or more, the barn decorating contest is an opportunity to scream “team pride” to everyone on-site. Competitors have until Saturday, May 4 at 2:00 p.m. ET to perfect their decorations before the judges take their walk-through. The winners will be announced at Saturday evening’s Graze and Gaze party.

Hobby Horse Contest

A fun twist on last year’s Bouncy Horse Championship, Stable View will be hosting a Hobby Horse jumping contest on Saturday evening during the Graze and Gaze party. Each school or club will elect one member to represent them in the official competition, and scores will be determined by time and their ability to complete the correct course while keeping the poles up. Once each group’s representative has laid down their round, anyone else interested in participating can take their turn around their course.

Mechanical Bull Riding Contest

In addition to the Hobby Horse Contest, there will also be a Mechanical Bull Riding competition. Again, each school or club will elect one member to represent them in the official contest. Do you have someone on your team who is known for being notoriously “sticky” in the tack? Elect them to represent your group! The results will be determined in order of longest ride times. Once the team representatives have competed, anyone will be welcome to try their hand at the bull!

Pavilion Window Decorating Contest

Finally, in addition to the barn decorating, each affiliate will get a section of the window upstairs in Stable View’s Pavilion, which overlooks the main arena, to decorate with their colors and mascots. All window decorating must be completed by Sunday, May 5 at 10:00 a.m. EST for the judges to make their assessments by midday. The winners of this competition will be announced just before the final Spirit Award Champions are crowned at the Awards Ceremony at the end of the competition.

Auburn University. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Overall Spirit, Sportsmanship, and Camaraderie

How does your team interact with fellow competitors from different schools or clubs? How do you treat the volunteers on-site helping with the Championships? How would you react if an opposing competitor asked for help? All of these concepts come into play in the assessment of groups’ overall spirit, sportsmanship, and camaraderie at the event. The way competitors act towards each other and their opponents, as well as to the organizers, officials, volunteers, and staff, will be heavily considered in the final placings, as kindness and good-hearted competition are at the heart of the true spirit of the Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Eventing Championships!

In the end, the scores from all four activities and the assessment of each group’s overall spirit, sportsmanship, and camaraderie will be tallied up to determine the Spirit Award Champions for each program. Each Spirit Champion will be the first recipient of the new perpetual trophies and will receive Stable View saddle pads for every member of their team during the Awards Ceremony at the end of the competition.

For the Intercollegiate Spirit Award, past winners from 2016 to present will already be recognized on the cup, while this year’s champion in the IEL Spirit Contest will be the first to add their names to said trophy. Reserve champions of the contest will receive stable view hats, and third-place winners will receive Stable View mugs.

University of Kentucky. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Entries for the Championships open Tuesday, March 19, and will close on Tuesday, April 16. The USEA anticipates significant interest in participating in the Championships and entries are limited to a maximum of 400 competitors, so early entry is highly recommended to ensure your spot. All Collegiate Teams and IEL Affiliates are welcome and encouraged to enter to compete at the 2024 Championships.

There are no qualifications necessary to enter, but teams represented must be registered Affiliates of the USEA. Don’t forget to submit your Collegiate Team Applications or IEL Application Form, along with your official rosters, to Jennifer Hardwick, USEA Senior Director of Membership Services, at [email protected] as soon as possible to ensure your members are eligible to compete.

Tentative team rosters for the Championships are due no later than the closing date on April 16, and definite team rosters must be provided by 12:00 p.m. EST on Monday, April 29. For the USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championship, please submit your team rosters to Leslie Threlkeld, Chair of the Intercollegiate Eventing Committee, at [email protected]. For the USEA Interscholastic Eventing League Championship, please submit your team rosters to Chris Donovan, IEL Task Force member, at [email protected]. Alumni Cup rosters are due to Emma Young, Stable View Team Member, at [email protected], by April 16.

Please be sure to include your stabling requests with your entry. Separate stabling blocks will be allotted for each program, and each affiliate will receive one complimentary tack stall upon entry. Alumni can request to be stabled with fellow Alumni Cup participants in close proximity to the College Town stabling, but they will not be able to be included in stabling with the Intercollegiate Eventing Championship participants.

If you plan to compete in the 2024 Intercollegiate and IEL Championships, don’t forget to sign up to join the Stable View WhatsApp group for the Championships. Click here or scan the QR code to the right to join the group. The team at Stable View will post regular updates and share news related to the championships in this group chat, so members will be first to know about all the exciting updates as the event takes shape.

Any questions regarding the Intercollegiate Eventing Program or Interscholastic Eventing League and the upcoming 2024 Championships can be directed to USEA Staff Liaison, Kaleigh Collett, at [email protected].

About the USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Program

The USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Program was established in 2014 to provide a framework within which eventing teams and individual competitors could flourish at universities and colleges across the country. The USEA offers a discount of $25 on annual USEA memberships for current students at universities and colleges registered as Affiliates with the USEA. Many events across the country offer Intercollegiate Team Challenges where collegiate eventers can compete individually or on teams with their fellow students. In Intercollegiate Team Challenges, each rider’s score is multiplied by a coefficient appropriate for their level to account for differences in level difficulty, and then the individual scores are added together to determine the team score. The USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championship is a capstone event for the program, which is held annually in the spring. The 2024 USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championship will be held at Stable View in Aiken, South Carolina, on May 4-5. Click here to learn more about the Intercollegiate Eventing Program.

The USEA would like to thank Bates Saddles, Horse & Country, Kerrits, U.S. Equestrian, WeRideTogether, and World Equestrian Brands for sponsoring the USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Program.

About the USEA Interscholastic Eventing League (IEL)

In August 2020, the USEA Board of Governors approved the creation of the USEA Interscholastic Eventing League (IEL) as an official program of the USEA. The mission of IEL is to unite junior riders who are in the 5th—12th grades and provide a supportive community through which students can continue to pursue their riding interests. A group of junior members in the 5th—12th grade who share a common bond, such as the same barn, school, Pony Club, or other connection, can register with the USEA as an IEL Affiliate. The USEA Board of Governors recently approved an inaugural IEL Championship to kick off in 2024 at Stable View in Aiken, South Carolina, which will be held in conjunction with the USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championships on May 4-5, 2024. Click here to learn more about the Interscholastic Eventing League.

The USEA would like to thank Kerrits and Horse & Country for sponsoring the USEA Interscholastic Eventing League.

Happening Today: Conversations with Team Canada – How I Got Here

By Edited Press Release on Mar 19, 2024 9:30 am -

EC’s Eventing High Performance Advisory Group is thrilled to extend the invitation for the fourth ‘Conversations with Team Canada’ webinar. Join us for a unique inside perspective as four of our Canadian eventing athletes share their personal athlete journey to high performance. This promises to be an inspiring and insightful session for all enthusiasts of our sport!

Conversations with Team Canada – How I Got Here
Date: March 19, 2024 (Tuesday)
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM EST

Highlights:
• Personal narrative from High Performance athletes.
• Insights into their training and preparation.
• Q&A session for you to engage directly with the athletes.

This webinar series is in support of the team’s “Pathway to Paris” campaign, where we delve into the world of Canadian Eventing High Performance. Be part of this exciting journey and witness the dedication, skill, and camaraderie that define Team Canada. Guests include Dana Cooke, Jamie Kellock, Selena O’Hanlon, and Waylon Roberts.

We look forward to having you join us for what promises to be an empowering evening of passion, dedication, and inspiration.

Save your spot now by registering and secure your exclusive access to this incredible conversation with our high performance athletes.

Registration is available here.

Shane Rose Takes 4*-S Title, Kiwi Young Riders Triumph at NZL Land Rover Horse of the Year Show

By Edited Press Release on Mar 10, 2024 12:30 pm -

Shane Rose rides Virgil in the CCI4* Show Jumping. Sunday March 10, 2024. Credit: KAMPIC / Sarah Lord

Australia ruled in the Land Rover CCI4*-S this weekend at New Zealand’s Land Rover Horse of the Year show, with the visitors claiming a hattrick in the Oceania Eventing Challenge and Olympian Shane Rose riding off with the individual title.

Finishing behind Shane and Virgil’s 30.8 penalty score, was Oliva Barton (AUS) in second on 33.9, with Andrew Cooper (AUS) and Sharvalley Thunder in third on 38.2. Diane Gilder was the best of the Kiwis in fifth on 47.4.

Australian chef d’equipe Stuart Tinney said there was plenty to love about their Land Rover Horse of the Year Show. “It is a wonderful show,” he said. “The cross country was a great track and it is just what we need to get into this sort of environment. It is so valuable.”

He was excited for the future of their riding coming through. “They all did a great job out there.”

The challenge of the cross country course not being able to be walked in full until just before the class added another layer of learning for all.

“It is a great learning curve and something you only see at big events and all good experience.”

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A post shared by Land Rover Horse of the Year (@landroverhorseoftheyear)

He was confident there was plenty to take away for all from the event, including experiencing travelling with horses and being part of the whole team environment. Having Shane Rose there too was also a real bonus especially as all of those who had made the trip have a desire to represent Australia at World Champs or Olympic Games in the future. “It is a fantastic effort for Shane to win for his journey in preparation for the Olympic Games. I am very proud of our training programme and coaches moving for the future.”

New Zealand chef Jock Paget reiterated his words, saying it has also been a great opportunity for the senior riders to experience the pressure of a team environment at LRHOY which had a real international feeling.

“This is part of the bigger picture for our programme and it is at these types of events that you get the hardest lessons. Now it is up to us as a programme and the riders to look at what we do, find the gaps and close them.”

In the end, Australia finished on 161.3 penalty points for their best three combinations, with New Zealand on 203.

Shane Rose and Virgil en route to a clear cross country. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

Just two combinations – Shane Rose and Olivia Barton (AUS) aboard Hollyander HG – finished on their dressage scores, with five combinations coming home clear in the showjumping including New Zealand’s Madison Seivwright aboard Waitangi Pinterest and individual Donna Edwards-Smith with DSE Mendoza.

On hand to see Shane Rose win was Virgil’s owner and breeder Michelle Hasibar. It was his first-ever win at LRHOY. “This was a massive part of my Paris programme and it was key to get my qualification here.”

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A post shared by Land Rover Horse of the Year (@landroverhorseoftheyear)

He figured LRHOY would be perfect for the 18-year-old horse to get it ticked off and allow them to continue with their programme. “If he goes well, he is normally pretty competitive,” said Shane, who loved that the cross country was so late in coming together due to it sweeping through the whole showgrounds.

He was chuffed to receive the Sir Mark Todd Trophy. “It’s pretty special that Mark has so generously given his 1994 Badminton trophy for this.”

Shane would love to see more competition between Australia and New Zealand including a Trans-Tasman series that could run over a season.

It was New Zealand for the double in the Fiber Fresh CCI3* eventing with the young rider team winning the Oceania Challenge and Kiwi Abbey Thompson aboard Cadbury KSNZ winning the individual.

Riders came back in reverse order with barely a change in the top seven combinations, albeit a shuffle of placings.

Australian Molly Lines and Tadpole posted the first clear of the class for her final tally of 38.2 penalty points, which was quickly bettered by Abbey added nothing to her 36.9 score. Last to go was overnight leader and New Zealand Oceania team member Bridie Quigley aboard Oranoa Greyson who were dreadfully unlucky to take the last and finish on a score of 37.4 for second placed behind Abbey with Molly in third.

The New Zealand Junior Team takes the Oceania Championship for the Fiber Fresh CCI3*-S. 2024 NZL-Land Rover Horse of the Year. Tomoana Showgrounds, Hawkes Bay. Sunday 10 March. Copyright Photo: Libby Law Photography

Bridie’s calm riding saw the New Zealanders hold on to the Oceania 124.7 penalty points to the Australian’s 130.2.

New Zealand chef d’equipe Lizzie Green was very proud of her crew. “They are such a great bunch and a very tight knit group,” she said. “It is very important to have that unity in a team. They are all very good riders and exciting for the future.”

She again underlined the importance of team competitions for the future of both New Zealand and Australia.

Individual winner Abbey, who heads to the UK after competing at the Adelaide next month, was rapt. “He tried his heart out,” she said. “He was a bit tired after yesterday as I don’t usually go that fast on the cross country but I decided I needed to get into that rhythm.”

It’s eight-year-old Cadbury’s first LRHOY and Abbey says he coped well with the atmosphere and pressure. “He is so sweet and easy to have around and is a very genuine horse.”

She was doubly happy for the win, given she’s been second more times than she cares to count at New Zealand’s bigger competitions.

“I certainly didn’t think I would be winning at the beginning of the week.”

She and Cadbury head to the UK on a one-way ticket and will base with Harry Mead in Wiltshire.

For full results, head to www.evoevents.co.nz.

Announcing the 2024 Ride for Charity Teams at #GPE2024

By Edited Press Release on Feb 25, 2024 1:56 pm -

Emily Hamel and Corvett. Photo by Shelby Allen.

The 2024 $100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor, Harris Insurance Services (GPE) Organizing Committee and the Aiken Horse Park Foundation are excited to announce the 2024 Ride For Charity Teams and Online Fan Vote!

Since the inaugural event in 2019, #AnEventLikeNoOther has featured the extraordinary Ride For Charity team competition. Along with the main event, the riders competing at the GPE are divided into 6 teams, each representing a local charitable organization. The top 3 finishing teams earn prize money for their respective charities.

In addition, since 2021 we have incorporated the “Online Fan Vote”, where the public can get in on the action and vote for their favorite team. At $5 per vote, 100% of the proceeds go back to our participating charitable organizations.

The Aiken Horse Park Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization, prides itself on its charitable contributions at EVERY event here at Bruce’s Field! Whether raising funds, awareness, or both, our charitable work is central to who we are.

Please read on to learn more about our 6 participating charitable organizations and join our “Online Fan Vote” to contribute to your favorite causes. Fans may vote as often, for as many teams, as they wish! Online voting will close at 4:00 pm EST, Saturday, March 2nd. [Click here to cast your vote]

Tickets are still available for this one-of-a-kind event, and you can get yours by clicking here.

TEAM RED

Great Oak Equine Assisted Programs

Captained by Colleen Loach

Sydney Elliott

Kyle Carter

Waylon Roberts

Great Oak provides equine assisted activities that promote the physical, emotional, and psychological health of individuals with disabilities. At Great Oak, we change lives. Our programs are the catalyst for unbridled personal growth and awareness. We share our knowledge to empower individuals and their families.

TEAM ORANGE

TRI DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Captained by Liz Halliday

Dani Sussman

Buck Davidson

Shannon Lilley

We make sure that individuals’ strengths and abilities are recognized. People with disabilities are vital and integral members of our society. They are supported as members of the community, rather than clients of programs or consumers of services. Opportunities to grow and achieve are offered in natural settings on a systematic and timely basis. Everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

TEAM YELLOW

AIKEN VOLUNTEER MOUNTED UNIT

Captained by Doug Payne

Caroline Pamukcu

Arden Wildasin

Sara Kozumplik

ADPS deploys volunteer personnel to supplement other components of the department in a non-law enforcement capacity as deemed necessary by the Director of Public Safety. Mounted volunteers can be an effective tool in operations, ceremonial details, and other areas of public relations. The volunteers of the unit are civilian volunteers. Participation as a volunteer does not confer law enforcement authority upon the civilian volunteers. It is the policy of the Department to utilize trained mounted horse volunteers in specific capacities as designated by the Director.

TEAM GREEN

AIKEN COUNTY PONY CLUB

Captained by Emily Hamel

Will Coleman

Austin O’Connor

Sharon White

Aiken County Pony Club (ACPC) was founded in 1998 by Sporting Days owner Joannah Glass, and has grown in leaps and bounds over the past 20+ years. ACPC is incredibly lucky to be based in one of the most exceptional equestrian locations in the world – Aiken, SC, with access to Olympic coaches, notable equestrians and horse trainers, and exceptional facilities. Each member plays an important role in our club, and we have riders of all abilities – from those learning to ride to those with Olympic dreams (and every one in between). Our club is part of a greater network of equestrians and sportspeople through the Regional and National Pony Club Organizations. Through Pony Club our members compete in Pony Club competitions (known as rallies), which require the kids to work together as a team, in the spirit of great horsemanship.

TEAM BLUE

HITCHCOCK WOODS FOUNDATION

Captained by Phillip Dutton

Will Faudree

Bobby Meyerhoff

Allison Springer

The Hitchcock Woods Foundation is solely responsible for the preservation and management of the Hitchcock Woods, which is the largest privately-owned urban forest in the country. Its 2,100 acres and 70 miles of sandy trails have been a haven for pedestrian and equestrian users since the early 1800’s.

TEAM PURPLE

BATTLEFRONT OUTDOORS

Captained by Boyd Martin

Monica Spencer

Matthew Grayling

Erin Kanara

To provide outdoor adventures and therapeutic events to the men and women who serve at home and abroad.

Tommy Greengard Receives the USET Foundation’s 2024 Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant

By Edited Press Release on Feb 23, 2024 12:00 pm -

Tommy Greengard and Joshuay MBF. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Up-and-coming eventing athlete Tommy Greengard of Malibu, California, was named the recipient of the United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation’s Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant for 2024. A current competitor on the US Equestrian (USEF) Eventing Emerging Program List, Greengard has aspirations of representing the United States internationally.

The Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant is awarded annually through the USET Foundation’s Amanda Pirie Warrington Fund. Pirie’s family established the fund in her memory to provide financial assistance to an eventing athlete identified as having the talent and ability to represent the United States in the future. It is intended for a recipient that will benefit most from the opportunity to continue their training with top coaches and to compete against the world’s best in eventing, one of three Olympic equestrian disciplines. As the recipient of the grant, Greengard will receive up to $5,000 to help offset expenses associated with his training throughout 2024.

“I’m so appreciative to the USET Foundation and USEF for all of the opportunities that have been offered to me including this grant,” stated Greengard. “Earning this grant took me by surprise; I wasn’t expecting it all. It’s a wonderful way to start the year, and I’m very grateful.”

Greengard began riding when he was six years old and trained with Robyn Fisher in Malibu, California, for nearly nine years. When he moved to northern California to attend college at the University of California, Berkeley, he began training with Andrea Pfeiffer. After graduating in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental science, Greengard decided to make horses a career and began to work as a full-time trainer at Pfeiffer’s Chocolate Horse Farm in Petaluma, California.

While Greengard has had success at the four-star level with his own Joshuay MBF 2, a 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, including winning the CCI4*-S at Woodside Fall International in October 2023 and placing third in the CCI4*-L at the Eventing Championships at Galway Downs in November 2023, he hopes to leverage the Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant to make his international debut.

Working closely with Pfeiffer, Greengard has been focused on building a string of promising young eventing horses and plans to leverage the grant to support the development of one particular horse, That’s Me Z, Greengard and Pfeiffer’s seven-year-old Zangersheide gelding.

“I have some exciting up-and-coming horses, and I’m hoping that I can take That’s Me Z to the 2024 FEI World Championship for Young Horses in Le Lion d’Angers, France,” Greengard explained. “I’d like to use this grant to gain additional training and competition opportunities that I might not have access to otherwise for That’s Me Z. He’s a pretty brave horse, but I think new experiences and introducing him to different atmospheres will be important before competing on the world stage.”

With his sights set on international competition, Greengard credits his partnership with Pfeiffer and support from USEF’s Eventing Emerging Program List for bolstering his career path.

“First and foremost, I have to acknowledge Andrea Pfeiffer. She has been behind me and the horses one thousand percent day in and day out,” said Greengard. “I’ve also been fortunate to have help from USEF’s Development and Emerging Coach Leslie Law through the Emerging Program List. Finally, Lilo Fore has helped me on the flat and, of course, my parents have been hugely influential in making everything happen.”

Thanks to the Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant, Greengard can continue to focus on his training to help reach his goal of representing the United States around the world.

Ingrid Klimke on FEI World Championships at Aachen: ‘Nothing Better Could Happen!’

By Edited Press Release on Feb 22, 2024 3:00 pm -

This story has been shared with permission from Aachen 2026, the site of the next FEI World Championships for eventing, show jumping, dressage, para dressage, vaulting and driving. Subscribe to the Aachen 2026 newsletter to keep up with the latest updates from this exciting event here. [EN’s Coverage of #Aachen2026]

Ingrid Klimke and Equistro’s Siena Just Do It. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

She is one of the most successful riders in the world and has won countless medals at Olympic Games, World and European Championships so far in her career. And yet one championship event particularly springs to mind for riding master, Ingrid Klimke: The FEI World Equestrian Games 2006 in Aachen.

In an interview the 55-year-old not only looked back on this emotional major event, but also looked ahead to the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026.

The World Championships are returning to Aachen in 2026. How was your reaction to this decision?

I was initially absolutely delighted, of course. But, at the same time, all of those wonderful memories of the best World Equestrian Games I had ever experienced immediately came to mind again. All of the disciplines being staged jointly, cheering on all the other participants together and the truly first-class conditions that turned the championships into a real world festival. That all of this is going to be repeated now 20 years later: Nothing better could happen for the equestrian sport! I am sure this event is going to be a fantastic experience for everyone involved.

What significance does the fact that all six disciplines are being staged in Aachen have?

For me the fact that all disciplines take place in one location is what distinguishes the horse family. And if I could wish for something it would be that this is always the case. Each discipline quite often has its own championships. Everyone knows each other in our sport, we are all one big community. But for me personally it is always especially nice to have a look at what goes on in the other disciplines and engage in an exchange with the other competitors. One celebrates together, one suffers with each other, when anything goes wrong. And apart from that one can learn a lot watching the other riders and broaden one’s horizon. So, it is a wonderful enrichment when all of the disciplines are united at one location.

Ingrid Klimke and SAP Hale Bob OLD. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

You were on board in 2006 and experienced the World Championships in Aachen as an active competitor. What are your memories of the event?

Oh, there were so many unforgettable and really exceptional moments: From the Opening Ceremony in the sold-out Main Stadium, through to the Reception in front of the Town Hall of the City of Aachen. I also recall the many wonderful evenings spent together with the athletes of all the disciplines, but also with friends, acquaintances and my family. Experiencing such an event in one’s own country simply allows many people to be there, who otherwise wouldn’t be able to attend.

How would you describe the atmosphere back then?

Happy, exuberant, simply fantastic. There were so many moments of joy that were celebrated with an incredible air of lightness, but also moments of consolation, when disappointed athletes received solace from the crowds. Throughout the entire duration, the mood in 2006 in Aachen was better than at any other championships I have ever experienced.

What would it mean to you to be able to take part as a competitor again in 2026?

Simply everything. And that is exactly what I am going to work towards over the next two years. I have great horses in my yard, which I will bring on systematically and hopefully I will be selected to compete in Aachen in 2026. That is my next major goal now.

Irish Olympian & 5* Winner, Austin O’Connor Scheduled to Compete at #GPE2024

By Edited Press Release on Feb 18, 2024 10:00 am -

Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue: Your 2023 MARS Maryland 5 Star winners! Photo by Sally Spickard.

The 2024 $100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor, Harris Insurance Services (GPE) Organizing Committee and the Aiken Horse Park Foundation are thrilled to announce 2023 Maryland CCI 5* winner, Austin O’Connor (IRL), is scheduled to compete at the March 1 & 2 event, in Aiken, SC.

O’Conner bases his program at Alderbrook Stud in England, and will be making the trip across the pond to catch ride at #AnEventLikeNoOther.

US Eventing fans will likely recognize world #22, Austin O’Connor, as they witnessed him win the 2023 Maryland CCI5* this past October, becoming the first Irishman to win a 5* in 58 years! 2023 was a big year for O’Connor, as he also took 3rd at the Badminton CCI5* back in the spring, also aboard Maryland winner Colorado Blue. O’Connor has represented Ireland at 7 championships and 13 CCI5* competitions thus far in his career (fei.org).

Carlson 119 & Amanda Beale Clement at the 2023 Showcase
Photo by Christine Quinn Photography

O’Connor will be teaming up with showcase veteran, Carlson 119. The 14 yo German Sport Horse gelding, owned by Micheal Dell’Angelo, Reese Dell’Angelo, & Elizabeth Bales, was the long time partner of Amanda Beale Clement until just this past year when Amanda handed the reins over to student Reese Dell’Angelo, who is now learning from the experienced schoolmaster.

“Carl” and Amanda have had some very impressive results throughout their career together, including several top 5 finishes at the CCI3* and CCI4* level. The pair competed at both the 2022 & 2023 Showcase. Amanda and Carl were the top placed Young Rider pair in 2023, scoring a 27.7 in the first phase. If O’Connor and Carlson 119 can repeat that success in 2024, they’ll be well placed heading into the jumping phases with a good shot at the top of the leaderboard.

Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue at the Tokyo Olympics (2021). Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

On attracting such an impressive, international rider to the GPE, event director Joanie Morris commented:

“We love that there is this kind of buzz about this event. It is the only eventing showcase of its kind and that lends itself to great interest from overseas riders. It is a huge testament to our sponsors who stepped up and allowed us to increase our prize money to $100k, and to the team at the Aiken Horse Park Foundation that continues to raise the bar across the board. We look forward to welcoming Austin to Aiken, in addition to the best riders in North America.”

VIP & General Admission tickets available online

There are several General Admission ticket options available. Exclusive online purchase options include:

One Full Event Pass which grants access to Friday, March 1st Dressage & Show Jumping AND Saturday, March 2nd Cross-Country
Full Event Pass $30.00 (Friday, March 1st & Saturday, March 2nd)
Two Single Day Pass options, which grant access to one day’s activities respectively

Friday, March 1st Only Pass $20.00 (Dressage & Show Jumping)

Saturday, March 2nd Only Pass $20.00 (Cross-Country)

These General Admission ticket options are only available online. General Admission tickets will be available at the gate for $25.oo per day,

VIP tickets include:

Invitation to the Thursday evening, February 29th, Welcome Party
Ring side for the Friday evening, March 1st, Show Jumping
Prime viewing locations for the Saturday, March 2nd, Cross-Country
Access to all VIP areas (VIP tent & Chalets) for the entire event
Food & Beverage served
VIP Parking

VIP tickets start at $1,000.00. For more information on Reserved Tables, Chalets, or Tailgate Parking Spots, please contact [email protected].

396 Trainers Accepted to 2024 Thoroughbred Makeover

By Edited Press Release on Feb 16, 2024 9:30 am -

Photo via Retired Racehorse Project.

The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) announced this week that 396 trainers have been accepted to the 2024 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, presented by Thoroughbred Charities of America. The world’s largest and most lucrative retraining competition for recently-retired racehorses and broodmares takes place on October 9-12, 2024 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, awarding over $100,000 in prize money.

The flagship event of the RRP, the Thoroughbred Makeover not only provides a showcase competition for the horses participating, but serves as an inspiration point to encourage more equestrians to get involved with the breed. The competition is open to professionals, amateurs, juniors and teams, all competing on an equal footing with racehorses that raced or trained to race within the past two years with no more than 15 retraining rides prior to December 1, 2023. The Former Broodmare division offers competition alongside the Retiring Racehorse division for mares exiting the breeding industry; Former Broodmares compete for a separate pot of prize money.

“Congratulations to all of the trainers accepted into the 2024 Thoroughbred Makeover,” said Erin Halliwell, executive director of TCA. “We sincerely appreciate the time and dedication it takes to transition Thoroughbreds into their next careers. We’re looking forward to October where we’ll see hundreds of Thoroughbreds demonstrating their new skills in many different disciplines.”

Competition at the Thoroughbred Makeover is available in ten disciplines, and trainers can choose to compete in up to two per horse: barrel racing, competitive trail, dressage, eventing, field hunter, polo, ranch work, show hunter, show jumper, and freestyle (a free-form discipline to showcase skills of the trainer’s choice).

While trainers did not need to declare their entry intentions for their individual horses on their applications, they did need to provide a horseman’s resume that detailed their training and competition experience, including riding video in their disciplines of declared expertise. Applicants also furnished letters from their veterinarians stating that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to appropriately care for a horse transitioning from the track. An independent application committee considered each applicant’s ability as described in their application to bring along a recently-retired Thoroughbred and compete at a national venue in a big environment.

Accepted trainers are encouraged to register their horses with the RRP as soon as they acquire them; horse registration closes on July 31, 2024. As horses are registered and approved, they will appear on the entry list at TheRRP.org/entries. Trainers have signed up to bring a total of 416 horses. (Late applications will also be considered through June 28, 2024.)

“Efficient and effective aftercare in North America is dependent on demand for horses from sport and pleasure riders who want to support the transition from racing,” said Kirsten Green, executive director of the RRP. “We’re proud to welcome the Thoroughbred Makeover class of 2024 to the vital community of individuals and organizations who have transitioned more than 4,700 horses since the inception of the event.”

The 2024 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium is a gathering for North America’s aftercare industry with networking opportunities for both non-profit and for-profit entities. The event includes the ASPCA Makeover Marketplace and ASPCA Right Horse Adoption Barn, offering horse shoppers and adopters the unique opportunity to watch horses compete, trial ride, and complete a pre-purchase exam all in one location. A hands-on seminar series and vendor fair round out the Makeover experience for attendees.

The Thoroughbred Makeover is the flagship event of the RRP, a 501(c)3 non-profit committed to increasing the demand for and value of Thoroughbreds in careers beyond racing.

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