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

By 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 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 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.

The Event at TerraNova Welcomes Alec Lochore as Course Designer of Spring 2024 Event

By on Feb 13, 2024 9:30 am -

Alec Lochore gives a tour of the cross-country course at The Event at TerraNova CCI 4*-L, November 2023.
Photo by EQ Media.

Events at TerraNova is pleased to announce the appointment of Alec Lochore as course designer for The Event at TerraNova CCI 4*-S, CCI 3*-S, and Advanced divisions alongside Mogie Bearden-Muller, course designer of the CCI 2*-S, CCI 1*, and Intermediate-Intro levels. The Event at TerraNova will be held March 27-30, 2024, at TerraNova Equestrian Center in Myakka City, Florida.

Hosted on a biannual basis, The Event at TerraNova has offered a world-class competition experience for eventing athletes from the Intro level through FEI CCI 4*. Living legend Captain Mark Phillips lent his expertise during the development and construction of TerraNova Equestrian Center’s cross-country course and has served as course designer from the inaugural event in 2021 through last November’s CCI 4*-L.

Upon announcing retirement plans, Captain Mark Phillips passed the torch to Alec Lochore for this spring’s event. Formerly serving as TD at The Event at TerraNova, Lochore boasts an extensive resume as a consultant, Technical Delegate, organizer, and course designer for high-profile events including three Olympic Games, the World Equestrian Games, and European Eventing Championships. Over the last decade, Lochore has worked closely alongside Captain Phillips to develop courses across Europe. The Event at TerraNova will be Lochore’s first 4* course in the United States.

Lucienne Bellissimo and Tremanton. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

“Alec has huge shoes to fill,” says Shelley Page, organizer of The Event at TerraNova. “Similar to Mark’s world of experience, Alec sees the courses from many different perspectives that are current and relative to what is currently happening in our sport, offering a well-rounded experience for both horse and rider.”

With The Event at TerraNova running just one month before the Kentucky Three Day Event and Badminton, Lochore hopes to bring new features to the course to complement horse and rider combinations early in their spring season. “It is important that those heading to the big spring events have a proper run and jump bold fences and good lines,” says Lochore. “It is equally important that those horses coming through to 4* for the first time are encouraged, educated, and challenged appropriately, so my challenge will be to create something to suit all.”

The Event at TerraNova CCI 4*-S division also provides a minimum eligibility requirement opportunity for riders pursuing qualification for selection on the Olympic eventing team for the 2024 Summer Olympics in France.

“We look forward to welcoming back our international competitors and riders of all levels to enjoy The Event at TerraNova this March! We are looking forward to continuously improving this event and are excited about the future growth,” says Molly Oakman, President of Events at TerraNova.

Cosequin® Lexington 4*-S to Offer Increased Prize Money at 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian

By on Feb 10, 2024 9:30 am -

Karl Slezak and Hot Bobo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), producer of the world-renowned Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™, is excited to announce that prize money for the Cosequin® Lexington 4*-S is being increased to $50,000 for this year’s event, which returns to the Kentucky Horse Park, April 25-28.

Introduced in 2021, the Cosequin® Lexington 4* runs concurrently with the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian (K3DE), one of only seven annual Five Star three-day events in the world. Known as “The Best Weekend All Year,” K3DE annually attracts nearly 90,000 spectators who also enjoy extensive shopping, a variety of hospitality experiences and a wide array of demonstrations. The event also features the Kentucky CSI4* Invitational Grand Prix presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.

Thanks to increased support from Cosequin® and other generous sponsors, the Cosequin® Lexington 4* will now offer double last year’s prize money, with money distributed to the top-ten finishers as follows:

  • 1st place – $16,400
  • 2nd place – $12,000
  • 3rd place – $7,200
  • 4th place – $4,800
  • 5th place – $2,600
  • 6th place – $2,000
  • 7th place – $1,800
  • 8th place – $1,600
  • 9th place – $1,000
  • 10th place – $600

“We are thrilled to increase the prize money being offered to our riders in the Cosequin® Lexington 4* and also deeply honored by the show of sponsor support for our event,” said Erin Woodall, Executive Director of EEI. “Without the generous support of our sponsors, the event wouldn’t be what it is today. This year promises to be the biggest and best yet for every level at the K3DE, and we look forward to providing competitors and spectators alike with the same world-class excitement they’ve come to expect.”

“Cosequin® has been a longtime sponsor of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, and we are proud to return for the second year as the title sponsor of the Cosequin Lexington 4* event,” said Todd Henderson, DVM, President and CEO of Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences, Inc. “We are excited to see the 4* continue to grow and offer more to the riders who have worked so hard to compete at this event.”

Tickets for viewing the Cosequin® Lexington 4*-S are included when purchasing K3DE tickets and can be purchased at kentuckythreedayevent.com/tickets.

BEDE to Return to Ballot Entries System for 2024 British Eventing Season

By on Jan 28, 2024 12:17 pm -

Bubby Upton pilots Cola III around Thoresby’s spring CCI4*-S fixture. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

BEDE Events, which runs popular events including Oasby, the Eventing Spring Carnival at Thoresby, the first British four-star of the season, Osberton International Horse Trials, and a roster of national events, can confirm a return to the standard ballot system for British Eventing entries.

Entries for will open on 29th January for Oasby (1), which takes place from March 7-10 in Lincolnshire.  As one of the most well attended fixtures in the early season calendar, competitors are urged to get their entry in ahead of ballot on the 6th February.

Of the decision, BEDE Director Stuart Buntine commented: “Despite our enthusiasm for change and to move areas of the sport forward, we will be moving back to a ballot system for entries as per the British Eventing rules.  We had hoped that changes to the BE entries systems would be in place for the start of the 2024 season, however this has not been possible and as we saw last year the system could not cope with the surge in volume for first-come-first-served entries.

“This will undoubtedly come as a disappointment to many who felt that the first-come-first-served system offered confidence in their entry and allowed them to plan in advance without the risk of either not gaining their entry or having the day of competition changed.

”We will continue to work with British Eventing to support the development of a more robust system, in order for a first-come-first-served approach to be adopted.”

Rosie Williams said, “Whilst the objective is to modernise our incumbent entries system, the complexity of eventing means it is a considerable technical challenge.  We rely heavily on the partnerships we have with our organisers and we look forward to continuing the work we have been doing with Stuart and others to achieve our aim.”

2023 entries for Oasby (1), which was later sadly abandoned due to snow, filled within 24-hours.  A significant entry is once again expected for the 2024 fixture, with BEDE opting for a reduced window for entries giving them increased time to plan the event for the relevant level of entries.

Oasby (1) will play host to three new BEDE Events leagues – the EcoVoltz League that focuses on horse/rider combinations and runs across all classes, the Agria BE100 league and the Arena Saddles Novice league.  Details for all leagues, and registration links, can be found via the BEDE Events website.

Further information can be found via www.bede-events.co.uk

Kentucky 5* Gets a New Name: Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by MARS Equestrian

By on Jan 25, 2024 10:15 am -

Tom McEwen and JL Dublin. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Just as we were getting accustomed to calling Kentucky “Land Rover” for short, organizing group Equestrian Events Inc. has announced a new title sponsorship for the event, and a new moniker to go with it. The first North American 5* on the calendar will now be known as the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by MARS Equestrian. The weekend of equestrian sport also features the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-Sand Kentucky CSI4* Invitational Grand Prix presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.

“We are delighted to announce a new name for our world-class event – the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event,” said Erin Woodall, Executive Director of EEI, in a press release. “The Kentucky Three-Day Event has a rich history of inspiring people to overcome obstacles on any terrain, a quality that applies equally well to Defender. This year promises to be a great year for our event with many exciting changes in the works, none of which would be possible without the support of Defender and our other generous sponsors.”

Charlotte Blank, U.S. Chief Marketing Officer, JLR North America, said: “We are pleased to continue the title sponsorship of one of the premier equestrian events in the world, the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian. The Defender is an ideal partner for the equestrian lifestyle, thanks to its purposeful design and exceptional capability. We look forward to continued relationships with the community and showcasing the Defender lifestyle at future events. Lastly, we wish all the competitors the best of luck during this legendary competition.”

Phillip Dutton and Z. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Defender was prominently featured during the 2023 event, and this year’s event will again highlight the synergy between Defender and the equestrian lifestyle. Representing over 70 years of innovation and improvement, Defender blends extraordinary capability within a reductive, modern and purposeful design. Defender’s distinctive exterior instantly demonstrates the vehicle’s character, while the cabin features advanced, intuitive technologies to ensure full connectivity through modern adventures.

With its expanded support, Defender returns as the Official Luxury Automotive Vehicle of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event and as title sponsor of the Defender/USEF CCI5*-L Eventing National Championship presented by MARS Equestrian for the event’s U.S. athletes. The event’s Sponsor Courtyard will also feature the Defender Experience, Defender Drives and the Defender Junior Drive Experience.

During Saturday’s cross-country phase, the Defender Tailgate will be the best way to experience the day, providing up-close views of horses and riders on course. Popular spots on course will include the iconic Defender Head of the Lake complex, featuring artisan carvings, for the CCI5*-L and the Defender Offroad for the CCI4*-S.

Eventing Legends and Industry Experts Set to Lead the 2024 ECP Symposium

By on Jan 20, 2024 2:37 pm -

Photo by Meagan DeLisle/USEA.

The 2024 ECP Symposium is less than two weeks away, and the star-studded list of faculty and special guests set to lead the three-day immersive educational experience is sure to make this an unforgettable event. On Jan. 30–Feb. 1, current eventing coaches, riders, parents, owners, and avid supporters of the sport will convene in Ocala, Florida, at the Florida Horse Park to experience some of the key elements of the USEA’s revamped program for developing coaches and evaluate riders of all levels. Click here to register to attend today!

In recent years, the interactive group teaching model has become an extremely popular format for the ECP Symposium, and this year, the ECP Committee has new plans to further enhance the model for attendees. Participants will again be divided into groups with assigned faculty to evaluate riders at various levels in all three phases, and each group will be asked to present their observations of what should be addressed and how best to improve each horse and rider pair.

New this year, prepare to have your observation skills honed! Each group presentation will highlight the exact principles or techniques they observed as needing improvement and demonstrate the exercises and concepts which address those issues. Other groups will be invited to contribute their own observations and suggestions to broaden the discussion around each horse/rider combination. Participants will play an active role in prioritizing learning segments for various horse and rider pairs to support the most successful path forward in their training.

Several top ECP faculty will be on hand to help facilitate the group learning portion of the Symposium. Among the Level V and IV ECP Certified Coaches who will help mentor and facilitate the process are:

  • Emily Beshear, a five-star eventer with experience coaching riders from Starter through Advanced, including EA21 athletes and Young Rider teams.
  • Jan Byyny, a top-ranked international rider who’s represented the U.S. at Pan American and World Equestrian Games, and now focuses her time on running her own Surefire Farm.
  • Mary D’Arcy, an ECP Assessor and Faculty member with experience coaching through the Olympic level.
  • David O’Connor, Olympic gold medalist, Director of Coaching for the USEA EA21 Program, and USEF Chief of Sport
  • Karen O’Connor, an ECP Assessor and Faculty member who has represented the U.S. at the Olympics, World Equestrian Games and Pan American Games, while also being named the U.S. Equestrian Female Athlete of the Year 10 times.
  • Jennifer Howlett Rousseau, as ECP coach that trains riders from the Starter to three-star level, the USEA Vice President of Education, and the champion of the subcommittee that created The USEA Eventing Handbook by the Levels.
  • Robin Walker, a founding force behind the USEA ECP and an active competitor in both eventing and Grand Prix show jumping.

The ECP Symposium will also feature several exciting guest speakers. Peter Gray, a Level V ECP Certified Coach, will kick off the fun on Tuesday with an interactive dressage judging exercise. Gray will provide real-time movement by movement commentary on ridden dressage tests from the judge’s perspective, giving attendees unique insight before they tackle their group learning exercises in the afternoon. Throughout his career, Gray competed at some of the most prestigious international events in North America and Europe, including two Olympic Games, the World Championships, and the Pan American Games, and he now serves as an FEI Level IV Eventing Judge, the highest certification for international officials, and recently served on the Ground Jury at the 2022 Eventing World Championships at Pratoni del Vivaro in Italy.

On Wednesday, crowd-favorite sports psychologist Dr. Paul Haefner will return to the Symposium to present a special segment on self-care for the professional, focusing on ways coaches can ensure that their own mental and physical wellbeing are being prioritized. Dr. Haefner will provide attendees with coping mechanisms and tips on dealing with the daily stressors that may arise in their line of work. Dr. Haefner will also be available for individual consultations all three days of the event, at no charge. If you would like to preschedule a consultation, please contact Dr. Haefner via email at [email protected].

During the event, the USEF Developing Riders will also be utilizing the Florida Horse Park for a training session and attendees will have the opportunity to audit some of their training time. Symposium attendees will be in for a treat on Wednesday afternoon, as the Developing Riders will lead a panel discussion for all to enjoy on their current training programs and their educational journeys as they climbed the levels of the sport. A Q&A session will follow to allow eager attendees to pick the brains of these successful upper-level competitors.

Finally, equine legal expert and USEA Board of Governors member Yvonne Ocrant, will discuss the basics of what coaches need to know about equine and business liability on Thursday morning. Ocrant’s equine law experience is extensive and includes handling litigation and transactions involving the Equine Activity Liability Act, assisting industry professionals to litigate and resolve claims of personal injury, property damage and other losses, drafting contracts for horse purchases, sales and leases, creating liability releases for individuals and entities sponsoring or participating in equine activities, and developing multi-owner syndicates for horses in numerous disciplines. Ocrant will break down complex equine liability laws and coverage to help attendees ensure that they are properly protected in their businesses.

Registration for the 2024 ECP Symposium at the Florida Horse Park on Jan. 30–Feb. 1 is open now! Current ECP Certified Coaches and/or USEF Licensed Officials can attend the event for the discounted daily fee of $50 per day or the full event fee of $125. The general public is also welcome to attend, and their rates are $80 per day or $215 for the full event. If you are planning on bringing your child or a student under the age of twelve, their attendance is free of charge. Advanced registration is greatly appreciated, so click here to register now. On-site registration will also be available.

If you have any questions about the ECP Symposium or the Eventing Coaches Program, please contact Nancy Knight, Senior Director of Education, at [email protected].

New Talent Joins British Eventing Youth Programme Coaching Roster

By on Jan 19, 2024 11:57 am -

The 2021 European Champion Nicola Wilson will join the British Eventing Youth coaching team this year. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

British Eventing is delighted to announce two new coaches joining their Youth Programme which will offer further support to young members as they journey through our training and competition opportunities.   

The two new coaches will join an experienced team of existing Youth Coaches under the guidance of Head of Youth Darrell Scaife. 

Nicola Wilson, a former Olympian and a UKCC Level 3 Coach will be joining the team as a National Youth Coach with a particular focus on Ponies. Nicola was a member of the silver medal-winning team at London 2012 riding Opposition Buzz and has also won a further eight medals at both World and European Championship level, five of which were gold.  

Tim Rogers, a UKCC Level 3 coach, will join the Central region as a Youth Regional Coach. Tim is an international rider and a former Junior European individual medallist.  

In addition, Camilla Kruger, also a former Olympian and a UKCC Level 3 Coach, will continue to support the International Pony Squad as Chef d’Equipe. Camilla is a keen hockey player, a wonderful communicator and is part of the Eastern Regional Youth Coaching team. 

Darrell Scaife said of the appointments: “We are delighted that both Nicola and Tim have accepted the roles offered to them and that Camilla will continue the good work she started with Ponies last year. They will be a great asset to the existing team, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience that young members will undoubtedly benefit from.  

“The calibre of training on offer this season to our youth membership is, in my opinion, second to none. I am really looking forward to watching our up-and-coming riders reap the rewards from what we are putting in place.” 

British Eventing CEO Rosie Williams OBE added: “This is an exciting opportunity for British Eventing’s young riders. Having people to work with them of the calibre of Nicola, Tim and Camila is brilliant and our riders should be very excited about the opportunities now available to them. We went through a very rigorous selection process, and I am extremely pleased to welcome the coaches to the BE team and look forward to supporting them along their coaching journey.”  

Darrell Scaife further added thanks to Jonquil Hemmings, who had held the post of National Youth Coach for the past 25 years, by saying: “Jonquil has had huge influence on the success of Great Britain’s event riders. Alongside a mighty haul of multiple medal wins, Jonquil has undoubtedly enabled and empowered young people to be the best versions of themselves on and off the field of play. I’m thrilled that we will be working with Jonquil to deliver some new initiatives to our members in the future months.” 

The British Eventing Youth Programme offers riders aged between 12 – 21 years the extensive training, education and support focused on the different categories of BE80/90, BE100 and International competition. The Youth Programme also offers a regional championship for riders across all categories competing on both ponies and horses. The three performance coaches are additionally supported by a network of regional coaches to offer an end-to-end training platform for all levels of ability across the youth eventing membership. 

To find out more about British Eventing Youth, please click here.

Wesko Foundation Welcomes New Riders — And New Partner

By on Jan 18, 2024 9:30 am -

The Wesko Equestrian Foundation has welcomed a new class of sixteen event riders onto the 2024 Young Eventers’ Pathway, with the support of Agria Equine Insurance.

The new class of Pathway riders includes those moving from grassroots to international competition, as well as those looking to progress to CCI5* level.  Following the new partnership with Agria, Pathway riders will benefit from two 2-day training camps in February and April, at Solihull Riding Club.

“The team at Agria are so proud to be supporting these aspiring young riders, who have shown such incredible promise to join the Wesko Young Eventers’ Pathway,” says Agria UK CEO Vicky Wentworth. “The opportunities provided by Wesko are truly life-changing, and so well deserved by the latest cohort of talented equestrians we see out there today.  Congratulations to each and every one of those selected; we cannot wait to cheer you on and follow the incredible journey you are about to embark upon.”

During the two early season training camps riders will benefit from expert coaching from former European Champion Nicola Wilson, British Equestrian Assistant Performance Manager Philip Surl, and dressage judge and coach Nikki Herbert.  Further advanced level cross-country training will be provided during the summer season, with riders also benefitting from education in cross-country course design and building techniques.

The goal at the heart of the Foundation continues to be to bring increased education and training to talented young event riders to support their futures, whilst putting the welfare of the horse and rider at the heart of the programme. The continued development of the Pathway Programme aims to offer these opportunities and support to riders with a 12-month education programme to accompany ridden coaching.

“We are extremely grateful to Agria Equine for their generous sponsorship of the Wesko Equestrian Pathway Programme,” says Wesko Equestrian Foundation CEO, Mariachiara Apruzzese. “Their support will play a vital role in providing training and education to young event riders, empowering them to achieve their goals and excel in the eventing world. Congratulations to the newly selected riders. We can’t wait to follow them this season.”

The Foundation has also received support from Toggi Clothing and continues its relationship with A Young Riders Academy. Members of the Eventers’ Pathway will be able to join with the Academy’s showjumping riders in Lugano and Geneva later this year.

2024 Wesko Young Eventers’ Pathway riders:

  • Alexa Palmer (GBR)
  • Alice Hallows (GBR)
  • Alicia Wilkinson (GBR)
  • Brier Dunn (GBR)
  • Danielle McCormack (IRL)
  • Ellie Healy (GBR)
  • Emily Mustow (GBR)
  • Grace Cooper (GBR)
  • Holly Horton (GBR)
  • Jack Whiteford (GBR)
  • Lizzie Schofield (IRL)
  • Oliver Woodland (GBR)
  • Richard Norfolk (GBR)
  • Saffron Cresswell (GBR)
  • Sophie Hulme (USA)
  • Tyler Smith (GBR)

British Eventing’s Inaugural National Youth Forum Participants Named

By on Jan 13, 2024 1:15 pm -

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

British Eventing is pleased to announce the successful applicants appointed to the inaugural National Youth Forum. The applicants, aged 12 – 21 years, will be working with British Eventing to assist in shaping the future of eventing in Great Britain.

The National Youth Forum members will be encouraged to identify and implement ideas and initiatives alongside likeminded members. They will be given the opportunity to ensure both their own, and the voice of the youth membership, is heard by the national governing body for the sport and key stakeholders.

As youth ambassadors, members of the National Youth Forum will assist foster and promote co-operation, dialogue and a sense of community within the youth eventing community. Serving a minimum of a two-year term, they will work on varying projects and with a variety of working groups within the sport, giving them exposure and a platform.

A recruitment process for the National Youth Forum commenced in November drawing an overwhelming response from those wishing to be involved. The fifteen successful candidates, who represent a broad range of our youth membership, are as follows:

The final panel consists of:

Harriet Blair, aged 17 from Somerset

Flo Burnop, aged 17 from Kent

Natasha Crapper, aged 13 from Wiltshire

Matilda Davey, aged 13 from Hereford

Kyle Forgan, aged 17 from Fife

Sarah Hoare, aged 18 from Lancashire

Jago Jackson, aged 16 from Buckinghamshire

Freya Jones, aged 20 from Devon

Tara Kay, aged 18 from Northamptonshire

Brian Lin, aged 15 from Berkshire

Beatrice Montgomerie, aged 18 from Gloucestershire

Evie Smith, aged 17 from East Lothian

Abi Stuart, aged 17 from Cornwall

Mimi Woodliffe, aged 14 from Somerset

Rosie Williams, CEO of British Eventing, said: “It’s great to see our youth membership embracing the opportunity to work with us and shape the sport for themselves and the future. It’s important that we listen to our youth members and take into account their experiences to ensure we meet our objectives and continue to offer a youth programme that works for all.”

Head of Youth at British Eventing, Darrell Scaife, added: “We’re excited to be restructuring the youth programme into one that will meet everyone’s needs, from grassroots through to international performance. To see such a strong contingent come forward is very encouraging and we look forward to taking the forum’s feedback and rolling out positive changes over the coming months.”

Alongside the National Youth Forum, British Eventing will also be recruiting members for the working groups being created to support the Youth Review Panel. Further information will be released shortly.

To find out more about British Eventing’s Youth programme, click here: https://www.britisheventing.com/compete/youth-eventing

Scholarships for Junior and FEI Riders Up for Grabs at Maryland Horse Trials

By on Jan 12, 2024 3:14 pm -

Loch Moy Farm shows off its photogenic nature. Photo by Alison Green for Erin Gilmore Photography.

Six scholarships across two categories will be available this spring from the Maryland International Equestrian Foundation for Juniors and FEI riders alike.

The MEIF will award four $1,000 scholarships to riders wanting to compete at the 1*, 2*, 3* or 4* levels at the July Maryland International Horse Trials. The scholarship funds will used entry fees, stabling, travel costs, and other associated competition expenses up to $1,000.

Applications are open from January 15, 2024 to March 31, 2024. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Recipients will be announced April 15, 2024. To apply, click here.

Applicant Criteria:

  • Open to riders who are USEF and USEA members in good standing.

  • Horses and riders must be capable of competing at the level of scholarship they are applying for.

  • Riders may apply for more than one scholarship level as long as it is a different horse/rider combination.

  • Riders and horses who have competed in a 5* competition and/or outside of North America are not eligible.

  • Horse and rider combination may not have competed above the level for which they are applying.

  • Previous applicants are encouraged to re-apply

  • Members of the MIEF Board of Directors and members of their families are not eligible. Family members or current clients of the Scholarship Award Committee are not eligible.

  • Incomplete applications without a video submission and letter of recommendation will not be considered.

The Merrylegs Junior Rider scholarships are geared towards diverse, young equestrians who are competing at a grassroots level. Scholarship recipients will receive a credit of $500 towards Maryland Starter Horse Trials (unrecognized) entries and schooling opportunities at Loch Moy Farm over the next year. The scholarship period is one year after the date the recipient enters their first event. After this period, unused scholarship funds will expire. Loch Moy Farm offers a variety of fun and accessible opportunities throughout the year for grassroots riders to learn and compete.

Applications for this initial round are due March 1, 2024. Two scholarships will be awarded during this round. To apply, click here.

Applicant Criteria:

  • Junior riders* age 13 – 17 riding at a grassroots level who would like to compete or are competing at the elementary, beginner novice, or novice levels. *{as defined by USEF and USEA Rulebook)

  • Local to Loch Moy Farm and able to arrange a suitable horse and travel to the venue. Scholarship funds can also be applied towards stabling. Recipients do not need to own their own horse, or use the same horse throughout the year. Participants in riding school lesson programs are encouraged to apply!

  • Ready to tell us how this scholarship would help them advance their riding goals.

  • Enthusiastic about increasing access to equestrian sports for underrepresented groups.

  • Willing to share their experience on Maryland Horse Trials and MIEF social & print media.

  • Able to further their equestrian education by volunteering 8 hours at any Maryland Horse Trials event. The volunteer hours may be split up.

Scholarship recipients will be subject to the rules and requirements of the events they enter.

2024 Thoroughbred Makeover Applications are Open for Submission

By on Jan 9, 2024 9:30 am -

Photo courtesy of Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover.

The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) announced today that applications for the 2024 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, presented by Thoroughbred Charities of America, are now open for submission. The application period closes at 5 PM EST on January 19, 2024.

Accepted trainers will be announced no later than February 15, 2024. The 2024 Thoroughbred Makeover Rulebook outlines all rules and information relevant to the competition, with changes for 2024 marked in red and clarifying information marked in blue. Interested applicants can start the application process now by logging in at theRRP.org.

Entering its tenth year at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, the Thoroughbred Makeover features competition in ten disciplines for recently-retired Thoroughbreds in their first year of retraining for a career after racing. A competition division is also open to recently-retired broodmares exiting the bloodstock industry. Horses and their trainers may compete in one or two disciplines of their choice, including Barrel Racing, Competitive Trail, Dressage, Eventing, Field Hunter, Polo, Ranch Work, Show Hunter, Show Jumper and Freestyle (a freeform discipline showcasing skills of the trainer’s choosing).

Horses and trainers will compete for more than $110,000 in total prize money, plus the coveted title of Thoroughbred Makeover Champion, at the Kentucky Horse Park on October 9-12, 2024. The Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium includes not only the competition, but educational seminars, a vendor fair, the Makeover Marketplace horse sale and Right Horse Adoption Barn, and more. The Thoroughbred Makeover Finale will feature the top five horses in each discipline in the Retiring Racehorse division based on preliminary competition, and will be live-streamed for viewers at home.

The Thoroughbred Makeover is open to professionals, amateurs, juniors (ages 12 and over), and teams. Applicants are required to provide information about their riding and competition background as well as references, including one from a veterinarian, and video that showcases their riding ability. Competitors do not need to have acquired their horse at the time of application, though they must register their horse no later than July 31, 2024.

Accepted trainers may acquire eligible Thoroughbreds through whatever source they choose, or can ride under contract from an owner. Eligible horses in the Retiring Racehorse division must have raced or had a published work on or after July 1, 2022 and must not have started retraining for a second career prior to December 1, 2023 other than a maximum of 15 rides, intended to allow for trial rides and assessment purposes. Eligible horses in the Former Broodmare division must have raced or had a published work in their lifetime, and must have produced a foal or have been bred in the 2022 breeding season or after as reported by The Jockey Club; they may not have shown or competed prior to December 1, 2023. Full eligibility requirements can be found in the rulebook at theRRP.org.

Photo courtesy of Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover.

The Thoroughbred Makeover has directly impacted over 4,600 horses since the competition began in 2013, and over $40 million has been invested into the future of those participating horses by their Makeover trainers including health care, training and more. The Thoroughbred Makeover has been a transformative event in Thoroughbred aftercare, increasing not only the demand for Thoroughbreds beyond racing but their value as retiring prospects, plus inspiring thousands of equestrians to get involved with the breed.

The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) is a 501(c)3 charitable organization working to increase demand for off-track Thoroughbreds beyond racing. In addition to producing the Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, the world’s largest and most lucrative retraining competition for recently-retired racehorses, the organization also maintains an educational library of content to empower more equestrians to ride a Thoroughbred, offers the only Thoroughbred-only online horse listings, and conducts clinics and seminars throughout the country.

FEI Publishes Olympic and Paralympic Rankings for Paris 2024

By on Jan 3, 2024 9:30 am -

The equestrian sports at Paris 2024 will take place at the Palace of Versailles.

Following the end of the qualification period at December 31, 2023, the FEI has published the Olympic and Paralympic Rankings which are used as the basis for the individual qualification slots for Paris 2024, and where relevant for reallocation and composite team purposes as per the qualification systems inherent to each discipline. Below is the update as it pertains to the sport of eventing. All other information from the FEI regarding Paris can be found here.

Eventing Update

Overall quota: 65 Athlete/Horse Combinations – 16 Teams (48 Athlete/Horse Combinations) & 17 Individual Athlete/Horse Combinations)

16 NOCs that have obtained a Team quota place (subject to meeting relevant requirements – NOC Certificate of Capability to be confirmed by January 8, 2024): France (as host nation), Germany, United States of America, New Zealand, Great Britain, Ireland, Sweden, Switzerland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland, Canada, Brazil, Australia, Japan, Italy.

The above NOCs have until February 5, 2024 to confirm their Team quota place with the exception of France (as host country) who is required to confirm by January 8, 2024.

Once the Teams have been confirmed (including any required reallocation process February/March 2024), only NOCs that have not accepted a Team quota place will be eligible to obtain Individual quota places, based on the FEI Olympic Ranking for Eventing published today (note: this ranking list does not include individuals from team qualified federations). Important to note an NOC can qualify for a maximum of two individual places in Eventing (only one per NOC in Jumping and Dressage), either through their FEI Olympic Group or through the overall FEI Olympic Ranking, or both.

The FEI Olympic Ranking – Eventing is limited to the best four results per Athlete/Horse combination in the qualifying events, within the period from January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023.

An NOC can therefore earn up to two individual quota places via the FEI Olympic Group Rankings with 14 Individual Quota places allocated via the FEI Olympic Group Rankings and three Individual Quota places allocated via the overall FEI Olympic Ranking. See links and current nations eligible for Individual quota places below, however, depending on the reallocation of unused Team quota places and/or should any nations decline their Team slot (deadline 5 February 2024), or not meet the requirements, the reallocation process for unused Team quota places would have an impact on the nations listed below.

The following nations have qualified one or two individual slots for Paris. This list is, however, subject to change should any of the nations listed in the team list above decline their spot or not meet relevant requirements.

Olympic Ranking – Group A: Denmark (1) and Finland (1)
Olympic Ranking – Group B: Spain (1) and Austria (1)
Olympic Ranking – Group C: Lithuania (1) and Hungary (1)
Olympic Ranking – Groups D & E*: Chile (1), Argentina (1), Ecuador (2)
Olympic Ranking – Group F: South Africa (1) and Morocco (1)
Olympic Ranking – Group G: China (2)
Three highest Ranked: Spain (+1), Finland (+1), Denmark (+1)
TOTAL: 17

A nominated long list is required from each nation by March 28, with final entries due to Paris organizers by July 8. Competitors have until June 24 to obtain any needed final MERs.

[Read more analysis on Olympic qualification from Tilly Berendt here]

Follow along with all of EN’s coverage of the Olympics here.

EN’s pre-coverage of the Paris Olympics in 2024 is brought to you with support from Zoetis — Long Live the Horse.

Stable View to Host Alumni Challenge at 2024 Intercollegiate Championships

By on Dec 29, 2023 10:00 am -

University of Kentucky. Photo by Shelby Allen.

In addition to hosting the Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Eventing Championships at the Charity Horse Trials May 4th-5th, Stable View will also be hosting an Alumni Challenge.

This challenge will allow current graduate students as well as any college alumni to form teams. Stable View recognizes that due to Covid many recent college graduates missed opportunities to compete at Champs for their college. There are lots of college graduates who went to school before the Intercollegiate Eventing Program’s inception and never had the opportunity to compete in any team challenges.

Photo by Shelby Allen.

This inaugural Alumni and Graduate Student Championship hosted by Stable View will be the chance for any and all college alumni and graduate students to compete as part of a team. This will be the first of what is planned to be future Alumni Challenges. Gather your college friends and teammates and see you May 4th and 5th at Stable View.

The Alumni Challenge will have its own set of awards that will be announced as soon as possible.

In addition to the Alumni Challenge, Starter has been added to the Charity Horse Trials allowing even more opportunities for horse trial and championship competitors.

For more information and updates about the Intercollegiate Championships and Alumni Challenge at Stable View, click here.

British Eventing Releases 2024 Fixture Calendar

By on Dec 21, 2023 5:00 pm -

Early season eventing action at beautiful Thoresby Park. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography for BEDE Events.

It’s time to get planning: British Eventing has released next season’s fixtures calendar, which is set to get underway at Epworth (1) in South Yorkshire and Poplar Park in Suffolk on Saturday 2 March 2024.

The 2024 calendar has been particularly challenging due to both Badminton and Burghley moving their dates which has had a huge knock-on implication for the rest of the fixtures for 2024 and 2025. BE has worked hard with organisers to create the most fair and balanced schedules as possible.

Despite the challenges, there are plenty of positives to focus on including the welcome return of Weston Park who will run on 6-7 April, offering classes from Novice to Advanced, which will no doubt be very popular with members.

There will also be several exciting new grassroots additions to the calendar, including two new events in Scotland; Brechin Castle in Angus (BE80-BE100) and Oatridge in West Lothian (BE80-BE100), while in the South West, BE welcomes Kingston Maurward in Dorset (BE80-BE100).

Regional Championships will continue at venues across the country acting as a pathway to the NAF Five Star BE80 Championships at Bramham and the Voltaire Design BE90 and BE100 Grassroots Championships at Badminton.

The British Eventing Leagues will also continue to run across BE80 – BE100 in 2024, including the Newcomers league for those in their first season competing within these height categories. A performance-based prize fund of £10,000 prize fund continues to be allocated to them with prize money being paid out bi-monthly.

The popular GoBE classes will also be available across multiple venues. GoBE BE80 – BE100 classes will continue to require no membership fee payable and offer unpublished results across all levels.

Some other changes to the calendar include an additional day of cross country on the Friday at Cirencester (1) while Oxstalls (1) will replace Goring Heath for 2024 on the Easter weekend. Oasby (1) in March will offer extra Intermediate opportunities for the membership.

For the second year running, Chatsworth will host the British leg of the FEI Nations Cup in May, and in addition to this, BE is grateful for the organisers of Epworth (2) stepping up as a permanent replacement for Speetley in June.

Osberton International (1) is a replacement for Rockingham with classes running from BE100 to Intermediate, CCI2*S, CCI3*S & CCIP2*.

We have also seen some calendar moves this year including Bovington moving to 20-21 April, Tweseldown (2) moving to 10-12 May, Little Downham (2) has moved to 3-4 August, Hopetoun has moved to 3-4 August with Regional Championships, and Chard Equestrian has moved to 31 August-1 September.

Due to reasons beyond the control of the Organisers, South of England has had to move to 21- 22 September for 2024 only, and sadly this means that for one year South of England will not host any FEI classes. A replacement will be announced early in the New Year.

The Fixtures Committee have circulated an Expression of Interest (EOI) to existing Organisers in the hope that these valuable MER opportunities can be replaced. This move was enabled due to the organisers of Munstead kindly agreeing to move to the last week in September to help South of England, a splendid example of organisers working together to give members the best opportunities as possible.

The organisers of Horseheath, Floors Castle, Richmond, Speetley, Somerford Park and Warwick Hall are unable to run this year for various reasons, but we trust that the exciting additions to the calendar will make up for those lost.

 Numbers of key classes

  • 11 events with advanced classes
  • 38 events with Intermediate classes
  • 5 events with 1*S classes
  • 13 events with 2*S classes
  • 14 events with 3*S classes
  • 11 events with 4*S classes
  • 5 events with 2*L classes
  • 4 events with 3*L classes
  • 3 events with 4*L classes
  • 4 events with P2*S classes
  • 6 Regional Championships
  • 19 105 classes
  • 11 80u18 classes
  • 15 18u90 classes
  • 13 18u100 classes
  • 13 18uN classes
  • 106 GoBE cross country days

View the fixtures calendar here. Please note that the website is updating at the moment and will take time for all the fixtures to upload.

In the meantime you can view the full fixtures calendar and further details of which classes are running on each day here.

Conversations with Canada: Sign Up for a Pre-Christmas Webinar

By on Dec 16, 2023 2:25 pm -

The Canadian team is launching a very fun new concept: beginning on December 20th, they’ll be diving into a webinar series with all the horsey heroes who make up the Canadian high performance machine that’s working towards the Paris Olympics.

First up to bat? The team that earned that Paris ticket at the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile in October. Gain an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the team’s journey and discover the stories that led them to victory. Highlights of the webinar are set to include:
• Personal anecdotes from the gold medalists
• Insights into their training and preparation
• Q&A session for you to engage directly with the athletes

This webinar is just the beginning of a series 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.

Save your spot now by registering and secure your front-row seat to this incredible conversation with the champions.

 

 

Boyd Martin and Commando 3 Receive the USET Foundation’s Connaught Grant

By on Dec 10, 2023 10:30 am -

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation has named three-time eventing Olympian Boyd Martin of Cochranville, Pennsylvania, and his mount, Commando 3, a 10-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Connor 48 x R-Adelgunde) owned by Yankee Creek Ranch, the recipients of the 2024 Connaught Grant.

Each year, the USET Foundation administers up to $25,000 to a developing horse that is seen as a potential candidate to represent the United States eventing team at the international level. The grant was established and is funded by Caroline Moran in memory of her dear friend, the late R. Bruce Duchossois, who was dedicated to encouraging the development of eventing horses in the U.S., and is named after Connaught, a horse that was owned by Duchossois and ridden by Phillip Dutton at the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games and 2008 Beijing Olympics.

As the recipient of the Connaught Grant, Martin, who is an athlete on the US Equestrian (USEF) Eventing Elite Program List with Commando 3 and Luke 140, will use the funds to support further competition and training with Commando 3 with the aim of riding for the U.S. at the highest levels on the international stage.

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Sally Spickard.

“It’s a huge honor and privilege to receive the Connaught Grant with Commando 3,” stated Martin. “In the last year, Commando 3 has burst onto the U.S. equestrian scene. We’ve worked very hard at building a partnership. I really feel like he is developing into one of the top horses in the nation.

“When I first arrived in the U.S., I got a job as a rider for Philip Dutton and was lucky enough to get to know Bruce Duchossois and Connaught,” continued Martin. “From the bottom of my heart, receiving this grant is a touching moment because I witnessed how much Bruce [Duchossois] changed his career and helped U.S. equestrian sport. I was also there to see Connaught in his finest moments, winning five-star events, and representing America. To be put in a category with a champion bloke like Bruce and a horse like Connaught is a huge accomplishment.”

Throughout 2023, Martin and Commando 3 have competed at the four-star level. Most recently, in October, the pair won the CCI4*-L at the Morven Park International, in Leesburg, Virginia. This win came on the heels of several top-five finishes in four-star competition, including winning the CCI4*-S in September at The Fork at Tryon International and placing third in the horse’s first CCI4*-L in May at the Tryon International Three-Day Event, both in Mill Spring, North Carolina.

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Erin Gilmore Photography.

Martin credits Commando 3’s character and is also quick to recognize the horse’s owners for their support.

“He’s an interesting character,” Martin said of Commando 3. “He’s a very good-looking horse and, sadly, he knows it. He struts around like a wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles. He has an amazing presence, and even when I watch him walking in the field, he has a championship look. I feel like we have an exciting future on the horizon with him.

“I’m really grateful for Yankee Creek Ranch getting behind me and owning Commando 3,” he continued. “We’ve developed a great friendship and partnership and it’s a fantastic feeling to ride a horse for people that have the same beliefs, goals, and aspirations.”

Next year, Martin has his eyes on the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, with Commando 3 and other horses in his string. Whether or not Commando 3 is selected for the Games, Martin plans to enter the gelding in five-star competition.

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

While Martin will leverage the grant in a way that will help Commando 3 gain the experience necessary for him to be successful on the world stage, he also hopes that up-and-coming athletes will continue their hard work and look for opportunities for the USET Foundation and USEF to support their journeys up the ranks.

“The USET Foundation and USEF do an incredible job identifying and supporting the great horse-and-rider talent we have in America,” Martin concluded. “To anyone that wants a shot at greatness, my advice would be to put your head down and work as hard as you can. Strive for the pinnacle of the sport. I promise there will be many ups and downs, but if you can hang in there and you keep chipping away, this sport will eventually reward you.”

Previous Connaught Grant Recipients

2023 Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake

2022 Will Coleman and Chin Tonic

2021 Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way

2020 Liz Halliday and Cooley Moonshine

2019 Alexander O’Neal and Fury H

2018 Matt Brown and Big Berry

2017 Emilee Libby and Jakobi

2016 Jennie Brannigan and Stella Artois

2015 Heather Morris and Charlie Tango

Level Up with a Scholarship from Green Mountain Horse Association

By on Dec 9, 2023 12:50 pm -

Photo courtesy of GMHA.

A big part of the Green Mountain Horse Association (GMHA) mission is to help educate future generations of riders and welcome a new generation of riders into GMHA and into the wider world of equestrian sports.

To help advance this mission, generous donors have provided funds to GMHA specifically earmarked to help young riders in their quest for excellence. The following scholarships are open to applicants and are due March 24, 2024.

Young Equestrian Development Scholarships

This fund provides financial assistance to hard-working young riders under the age of 21 to allow them to compete or participate in a learning activity at GMHA.

Scholarship funds may be awarded for GMHA clinics, competitions (e.g., Competitive Trail Rides, Dressage Shows, Driving shows, Horse Trials, Hunter/Jumper Shows, etc.), or other educational activities hosted by GMHA.

This scholarship allows our Youth members to achieve their equestrian goals and improve their horsemanship skills in a professional environment and may provide a chance to explore other disciplines.

Scholarship applications are now being accepted and must be received by March 24, 2024. To be eligible one must be a member of GMHA. Membership can be submitted with your scholarship application.

The Virginia Lancaster Memorial Youth Fund

Andrea Sinner has chosen to honor the memory of Virginia Lancaster through the establishment of an endowment fund for the purpose of assisting young equestrians to pursue and advance in their sport. She was one of the grateful beneficiaries of Virginia Lancaster’s passion for all things equestrian, which allowed her and other children to fall in love with horses and begin a lifelong journey with them. Virginia was also an enthusiastic supporter of GMHA.

The Fund will award scholarships to enable young people to advance their interest and participation in equestrian activities, especially in GMHA s youth-focused activities and trail programs through stipends, scholarships, and other forms of support. Funds may be expended for any activities or competitions held at GMHA.

Geoff and Joanie Nichols Youth Fund Scholarship

The children of Geoff and Joan Nichols have chosen to honor the memory of their parents through the establishment of an endowment fund to assist young equestrians to pursue and advance in their sport. Geoff and Joan Nichols in their lifetimes were accomplished equestrians, owners and supporters of top event horses, enthusiastic supporters of youth participation in equestrian sports, and lifelong supporters of GMHA.

The Fund will award scholarships to young equestrians interested in the eventing disciplines to support their participation in GMHA activities to advance their skills. Scholarships may be expended for any activities or competitions held at GMHA, or, with specific approval in advance by the GMHA Awards Committee, to help defray the costs of participating in activities or competitions elsewhere to advance in their sport.

JHC Scholarships

Established in 1956, GMHA’s Junior Horsemanship Clinic is the premier Eventing camp for young riders ages 9-17. Riders bring their own horses or ponies to camp and receive quality mounted and unmounted instruction. Riders will school all three phases of Eventing: dressage, cross-country, and show jumping.

The GMHA Junior Horsemanship Clinic is celebrating its 68th Anniversary June 23-30 in 2024! Our professional staff and extensive facility make this an amazing opportunity!

In addition to the scholarships listed above, which may be awarded for JHC, there are specific scholarships just for JHC.

Learn more about the Junior Horsemanship Clinic through our JHC page.

We invite you to become a member of the most well-loved, oldest and continuously operating horse association in the country.

Located in South Woodstock, Vermont, GMHA is made up of passionate horsemen and women who value the connection between horse, human and nature. Founded in 1926, Green Mountain Horse Association’s focus was directed to its annual horse show and marking a growing network of trails. Since that time, GMHA expanded its events to include competitive trail, combined driving, dressage and horse trials, in addition to the hunter/jumper events. Moreover, GMHA continues to educate and develop horsemen and women and up and coming youth equestrians through clinics and camps.

Members’ support helps to ensure that GMHA, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, will continue to exist for generations to come, and will continue to preserve our important legacy in the equestrian community. Membership ensures the continuation of GMHA’s positive impact on the equestrian sport and its inherent land preservation and trail maintenance, all geared toward fostering the bond between horse and rider. Support the sport and the facility that brings joy to so many. GMHA members will receive Membership Perks, thanks to the support of its business sponsors. Become a member and obtain special discounts!

The Annie Goodwin Rising Star Grant Committee & the Aiken Horse Park Foundation Announce Inaugural Winner

By on Dec 5, 2023 9:30 am -

Isabelle Bosley and Night Quality. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The Annie Goodwin Rising Star Grant Committee & the Aiken Horse Park Foundation are pleased to congratulate Isabelle Bosley on being selected as the inaugural recipient of the Annie Goodwin Rising Star Grant.

Isabelle Bosley has been riding her entire life, and started eventing at age eight. She has worked for 5* rider, Lillian Heard, for the last eight years and is slowly building up her own business. With Lillian’s guidance, Isabelle has hopes of being at the top of the sport one day. Isabelle has competed through the 4* level and has three main competition horses, all at different levels, that she has produced with the help of Lillian.

On being informed that she was selected as the recipient for the 2023 grant, Isabelle commented:

“I am incredibly honored and grateful to receive this grant. Annie was a fantastic horsewoman in this sport, and someone I looked up to not only as a rider but also as a person. I feel very privileged to be chosen as the inaugural recipient, and am looking forward to the opportunities this grant will present in the 2024 season!”

The Annie Goodwin Rising Star Grant provides financial support for young professional equestrians establishing the early years of their business and wishing to continue their equestrian education and competition.

Isabelle Bosley and Night Quality. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Twenty-seven applications were received for the 2023 grant. All applicants had to meet the following criteria:

  • Professional member in good standing with their respective national governing body
  • US citizen or legal resident
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Reside in Aiken, SC for a minimum of three (3) months annually
  • Between the ages of eighteen (18) and thirty (30) years of age by January thirty-one (31) of application year

This year’s applicants represented four prominent disciplines in the Aiken area; Eventing, Hunter/Jumper, Driving, and Dressage. Their applications, additional responses, and letters of recommendation, were diligently reviewed, with a primary focus on the applicant’s strong connections to Aiken, substantial experience in the equestrian profession, well-crafted future plans, and, most importantly, the candidate’s demonstration that they share a kindred spirit with Annie. Ultimately the candidate chosen was someone who consistently extends support and encouragement to others while simultaneously pursuing their own journey to the upper echelons of the sport.

While the grant funds will be made available to Isabelle in early 2024, we will formally celebrate her during the 2024 $100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor, Harris Insurance Services. For more information on how you can attend, see the information at the bottom of this release. We hope everyone will join us!

Annie Goodwin and Fedarman B. Photo by Christine Quinn Photography.

In the spirit of Annie’s vision and legacy, the Aiken Horse Park Foundation established the Annie Goodwin Rising Star Fund, to foster, support and develop Aiken’s young equestrians who embody Annie’s character and dedication in their respective sports.

Please consider making a donation to the Annie Goodwin Rising Star Fund, so that we can continue to grow the impact of these annual grants.

Thank you to all of Annie’s friends and family who have already donated to the Annie Goodwin Rising Star Fund. To date we have raised $135,000.00. These funds will serve as the initial corpus to provide for the annual grant program.

We encourage everyone to continue to donate to this fund in support of Annie’s memory so that more aspiring young professionals may experience the impact of Annie’s gift.

Back to Back Victories for Maxime Livio in the Agria Top 10 Indoor Eventing

By on Dec 4, 2023 11:00 am -

Agria Top 10 Indoor Eventing brings together some of the world’s very best eventing riders. In the Sunday final, France’s Maxime Livio was best of them all. He secured the victory with Boleybawn Prince and the duo thereby repeated their 2022 win.

Maxime Livio and Boleybawn Prince won the very first Agria Top 10 Indoor Eventing final in 2022 and when this hugely popular event was back in Friends Arena this year, the pair showed masterclass and copied the victory. Last year the duo won the warm-up class as well, where this year they were third. For 19-year-old Boleybawn Prince this was the last time at Friends Arena as he is set to retire after his next competition.

Maxime Livio-Boleybawn Prince. Credit to Roland Thunholm/SIHS.

“It’s always a big pleasure when you are thinking of a plan, because you have a nice horse, and you manage to follow this plan”, Maxime Livio summarizes his ride.

“And for sure with this horse I have quite a lot of pressure. Because if I do my job well, I’m 100% sure he will do his job well. So if he misses something it’s because I miss something. So it’s quite a lot of pressure, not regarding the competition but more regarding our relationship, because since he’s so generous I really would like to ride my very best. When I manage to do that, most of the time he is really successful. I’m very happy to have such a horse.”

Cyril Gavrilovic from Belgium guided his good jumper Gatine de l’Aubree sensibly around the challenging course for a clear round, which was enough for second place as the Christmas-inspired jumps caused trouble for some of the other riders. Sweden’s Frida Andersén and Box Compris saw a quick ride, but collected some expensive penalties. They ended up third in what was the mare’s last competition as Box Compris is now set to go into breeding.

After winning the warm-up class earlier in the week, American Boyd Martin finished 4th on the Swedish horse Caruccio Paradise, a catch ride we saw him finish 5th on at the event last year. Caruccio Paradise has been campaigned through the 3* level with Johan Lundin and the 2* level with Klara Liden Kiraly.


<a href="https://online.equipe.com/startlists/899072"

Click here for full results from the competition.

Wesko Equestrian Foundation Young Eventers Pathway Applications Open

By on Dec 2, 2023 4:35 pm -

Photo courtesy of the Wesko Equestrian Foundation.

The Wesko Equestrian Foundation launched its first project in 2018, the Young Eventers Programme, where the Foundation aimed to support the transition from Young Rider to Senior and amateur to professional. Moving into 2023, the Foundation expanded its support of young event riders via the new Young Eventers Pathway. Our aim is to support young eventers from every background to become better and more viable athletes. The Foundation’s vision is to create an eventing community and peer learning environment that surrounds the riders who are participating in the programme.

Moving into 2024, Wesko has combined the three separate pathways from 2023 (Grassroots, 2/3* and 4/5* level), into one new Young Eventers Pathway. The new Pathway will accommodate up to 16 riders, between the ages of 21 and 28-years-old, and will not only offer three separate training events with our coaching team of European Champion Nicola Wilson, 5* dressage judge Nikki Herbert, and British Equestrian Assistant Performance Manager Philip Surl, but will also have access to a 12-month education programme, that will offer riders support in a variety of areas, from business to media training, fitness and nutrition, and to equine welfare.

The education programme will be free for all Pathway members, while ridden coaching sessions are £160 for two days and cross-country training will be £60 per rider. These fees are inclusivee of training (with one or two horses per session), venue hire, stabling, meals, refreshments, and unmounted activities.

The total value of training days is between £300-350 per rider, per day, but the Foundation is pleased to be able to subsidise access to this training and education programme, thanks to the generosity of our donors and sponsors, including Pathway partner Agria Equine Lifetime. All ridden training taking place at Solihull Riding Club.

Riders can apply from 1st December to the 15th December here. Applicants must be based in the United Kingdom and able to commit to all of the relevant Pathway dates. These dates are as follows:

JANUARY – 11th

  • Induction day to outline the programme
  • Social Media & Sponsorship support from Sarah Skillin
  • Introduction to insurance from Agria Equine Lifetime
  • Kitting out session with team kit, supported by Toggi and Agria
  • Discussion around aims and goals for the 2024 season
  • Discussion of individual support plans

FEBRUARY  – 3rd – 4th 

  • Dressage training with Nikki Herbert (1 lesson per rider)
  • Showjumping training on day 1 (2 sessions per rider)
  • Area Cross-country training on day 2 (2 sessions per rider)
  • Jumping coach – Philip Surl
  • Dismounted activities and education sessions TBC
  • All to stable on-site, unless local to commute for evening meal and education session

APRIL – 25th – 26th

  • Dressage training with Nikki Herbert (1 lesson per rider)
  • Showjumping training on day 1 (2 sessions per rider)
  • Cross-country training on day 2 (2 sessions per rider)
  • Jumping coach – Nicola Wilson
  • Dismounted activities and education sessions TBC
  • All to stable on-site, unless local to commute for evening meal and education session

JUNE/JULY – TBC

  • Cross-country training day to focus on Novice – Advanced level riding
  • Coach – TBC

BADMINTON & BURGHLEY

  • Course walking support and advice will be available for riders competing in the 5* and Grassroots events
  • Media support for those competing at 5* level

BRAMHAM

  • Course walks and support for riders competing in the 4*

 

On Sale Now: Get Your Tickets for the 2024 $100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field

By on Dec 2, 2023 1:00 pm -

Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration, winners of the Retired Racehorse Project Highpoint Thoroughbred Award at LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing, Bruce’s Field, Aiken, SC in 2021. Photo by Chris Quinn.

Festive season present idea alert! Tickets are now on sale for the 2024 $100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor, Harris Insurance Services. VIP and General Admission tickets are both available for purchase online for this fast, furious, and incredibly fun showcase of upper-level eventing action, set to take place March 1 and 2 at Bruce’s Field in Aiken, South Carolina.

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 a 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, cash or check only.

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]. In need of somewhere to stay in Aiken for the weekend? Check out this handy list of recommended hotels and B&Bs in the area. Happy spectating!