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Adelaide Set for Epic Equestrian Showdown at 2026 Oceania Championships

By on Mar 3, 2026 9:00 am -

Jess Somerfield and Finch Farm Carpenteria compete at Adelaide in 2025. Photo by Atalya Boytner.

The Adelaide Park Lands will provide the perfect backdrop for the upcoming and prestigious Adelaide Equestrian Festival from April 16-19, which will also play host to the Oceania Championships.

The Adelaide Equestrian Festival is the only CCI5* in the Southern Hemisphere, representing one of seven such events around the world. In a huge win for the State, the Adelaide Equestrian Festival was selected as the Oceania Championships host for 2026 and 2029. South Australia last hosted the event in 2009.

The Oceania Championships will be contested across two divisions: the CCI3*-L for Under 25 competitors and the CCI4*-S for Senior competitors. Athletes selected to the CCI4*-S squad will have demonstrated the ability to support ongoing development of the Australian Eventing Team as the nation looks ahead to this summer’s World Championships at Aachen. This will also be the first time the Under 25 division will be hosted at the Adelaide Equestrian Festival.

Greg Rolton of the Adelaide Equestrian Festival said the 2026 program is set to deliver what is undoubtably the most expansive offering to date as the Festival continues to up the stakes as Australia’s premium equine event.

“As the ‘Festival State’ South Australia continues to dial up the action year on year with access to the very best music, culture, food and sporting events,” Greg said. “The Adelaide Equestrian Festival continues to provide an all-in, family friendly event that not only showcases the finest Equestrian athletes but also blends hospitality, entertainment and education within the pristine surrounds of the Adelaide Park Lands.”

“You just don’t get this type of event anywhere in the world – and I can say that, because it’s true. Horses and Riders performing Dressage, Cross Country and Show Jumping in the heart of the Adelaide CBD… it is truly one of a kind,” he continued.

The world-class CCI5*-L course, designed by renowned Mike Etherington-Smith, is expected to challenge more than 20 elite riders from across Australia and New Zealand while the Oceania Championship divisions will see Australians Clayton Fredericks take over the CCI4*-S course design and Mick Pineo the CCI3*-L.

And there’s more to this big weekend of equestrian sport than horses only. The Festival that accompanies this competition will feature some special acts including:

Golden Guitar–winning musician and horseman Tom Curtain will perform across three days. Showcasing his talents both on horseback and with a guitar in hand, Tom’s performances invite festivalgoers, young and old, to get involved and be part of the action.

On Saturday afternoon, following the thrill of cross country, spectators will be treated to a full performance of the award-winning Katherine Outback Experience, with special musical guests joining Tom Curtain in Victoria Park.

There is something for everyone at the Adelaide Equestrian Festival including family picnic hampers or the choice to pack your bag for the day, interactive free kid’s activities, informative education learning seminars, ticketed marquee passes for premium catered experiences, High Tea, live music and more.

Adelaide Equestrian Festival Director Kirsty Withers said the event was the perfect School Holiday outing.

“The Festival is truly accessible for everyone,” she said. “Thursday presents a great opportunity for families with free General Admission, while children under five can attend free across all four days. We are incredibly proud to also offer free entry for kids under 12 on our benchmark Cross Country Day, Saturday 18 April — making it a truly budget-friendly option for families wanting to enjoy the outdoors and witness jaw-dropping equestrian action just metres away.”

“Cross country day on Saturday never disappoints,” Kirsty continued. “This wildly energetic day sees families and equine enthusiasts spread across the Adelaide Park Lands, enjoying great food and drink, browsing vibrant pop-up markets and soaking up the unforgettable sights and sounds of horses galloping past — a thrilling display of both grace and power – and this year a perfect end to the big day will be watching Tom Curtain perform.”

More than 30,000 spectators are expected at the Adelaide Equestrian Festival with travellers from the Eastern Seaboard, New Zealand and across the State.

South Australian Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison said “South Australia continues to be recognised as the destination of choice when it comes to hosting elite sporting events, such as the Oceania Championships in 2026 and 2029.”

“The more than 30,000 spectators expected to attend the Adelaide Equestrian Festival 2026 will experience why South Australia is the nation’s official Best Event State,” Zoe continued. “The program boasts the highest calibre of equine competition, while offering immersive experiences that showcase our premium produce and beauty of our green city. I encourage those travelling to our State to extend their stay and discover the simple pleasures our tourism regions have to offer, from our wine regions bursting with Australia’s best food and drink to our stunning coastlines.”

The 2026 Adelaide Equestrian Festival timetable includes:

April 16: FREE General Admission. Retail, food, drink, world-class Eventing – it’s all happening for the first day of Dressage. A great way to explore the event with family and friends if you’ve never been before – you’ll be sure to come back for more next year!

April 17: Spectators get a front row seat for the gentle, skilled and highly competitive display of Dressage thanks to Pryde’s Easifeed. Soak in all the action from the iconic Victoria Grand Stand and enjoy the picturesque Park Lands.

April 18: Sponsored by RB Sellars, this event is bound to have your heart racing! The sights and sounds are horses and their riders gallop across the Park Lands makes for a highly exhilarating day out! The atmosphere is abuzz with music, markets, hospitality, kids’ activities and more!

April 19: This is the last discipline on display – who will take to the podium following the heart stopping ATCO Show Jumping Day?

The 2026 Adelaide Equestrian Festival is supported by the South Australian Government through the South Australian Tourism Commission.

Adelaide Equestrian Festival 2026 tickets can be purchased here.

[Read: Atalya Boytner’s experience at Adelaide in 2025]

MARS Bromont Rising U25 Grant Program Returns to MARS Bromont CCI for 2026

By on Feb 13, 2026 12:07 pm -

MARS Bromont Rising Grant Recipients with guest coach Bettina Hoy on the cross-country course at Bromont June, 2025. Photo by Sally Spickard.

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, 2026. Three-time German Olympic team member Bettina Hoy will return as the guest coach for 2026, and new additions this year will include a stable management module with Max Corcoran and a welcome BBQ for participants and their teams, courtesy of the Wildasin family’s Fox Nation.

The brainchild of Bromont organizer Sue Ockendon and the late Steve Blauner, the Bromont Rising 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. Blauner, a longtime event horse owner and dedicated advocate for the sport, had the vision of supporting young eventers from the US and Canada who were not yet on the radar of national U25 training programs. Ockendon also had long held the dream of offering financial support to 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 respected industry leaders who give their time generously in support of the next generation of young riders. Returning presenters for 2026 include Bromont and CCI5* Burghley cross-country course designer Derek DiGrazia (USA); FEI 5* judge and FEI World Championships 2026 eventing Ground Jury member Peter Gray (CAN); and multiple Olympic, World Equestrian Games and European Championships competitor and medalist, Bettina Hoy (GER). 


New education features for 2026 include stable management with former US Eventing Association president and Olympic groom Max Corcoran (USA), talks on sponsor & owner relations as well as social license to operate, and a welcome BBQ for all Bromont Rising participants on Tuesday evening courtesy of the Wildasin family / Fox Nation.

2024 MARS Bromont Rising grant recipient Julia Fanello (USA) with FE Prince of Darkness
in the CCIU252*-L at June’s MARS Bromont CCI 2024 © Michelle Dunn

MARS Bromont Rising program director, Olympian and Ground Jury/Judge at this year’s FEI World Championships, Peter Gray acts as a clinician at the event. His centreline workshop details how to make the most of your dressage warm-up, and exactly what the judges are looking for movement-by-movement in order to produce a winning dressage test.

“We are incredibly excited that MARS Bromont Rising grants will be offered once again at Bromont this year,” he remarked. “Bromont is a world-class competition destination with challenging terrain and cross-country courses designed by renowned CCI5* course designer Derek DiGrazia. Competition at Bromont rivals that of any major international event in the world. Having guest instructors like Bettina Hoy and Max Corcoran is an unmatched opportunity for these U25 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, especially if participants are willing to take them on in an immersive way,” Hoy remarked. “Education goes far beyond riding instruction. During the week at Bromont not only do we walk courses and talk dressage, but we also discuss every aspect of “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 discuss the use of social media today.”

Bromont Rising coat Bettina Hoy pins the second place ribbon on Emeline Gilbert and EWSZ Mozart. Photo by Abby Powell.

Canadian young rider Emma McHugh of Beaconsfield, Quebec, received a grant in 2025:

“This year’s Bromont was truly one of the best experiences I’ve ever had, and it made my first 2*L feel so much more positive and supported. I can’t thank Sue Ockendon and the organizers enough, and Ms. Mars for making this incredible opportunity possible. I learned so much in such a short time. It’s definitely something every young rider should get the chance to experience.

“The atmosphere, the people, and the level of learning at this amazing venue in Canada made it unforgettable. I made amazing connections and friendships. The highlight was my lesson with the legendary Bettina Hoy!

Thank you all for your hard work and dedication, this program is something very special and I am so excited to see what’s next for it.”

Canadian and American U25 riders competing in the CCIU252*-L and CCIU253*-L as well as the CCI4*-L/S are eligible to apply.

Grant application information is as follows:

MARS Bromont CCI June 4-7, 2026

NEW THIS YEAR $50,000 in total prize money across all divisions including the CCI4*-S

CCIU252*-L, CCIU253*-L, CCI4*-L/S

Applications will open February 15, 2026

APPLICATION DEADLINE MARCH 15, 2026

You can access information and the application form for MARS Bromont Rising here.

Double the Legacy: A Matching Challenge for the Richard Picken Memorial Grant

By on Feb 7, 2026 9:30 am -

Meg Pellegrini was the 2025 recipient of the Richard Picken Memorial Grant. USEA/Meagan DeLisle photo.

The Richard Picken Memorial Grant was established in memory of the late Richard Picken by his loved ones to support intensive training in the show jumping phase of eventing. The grant is aimed at riders age 25 and under who are competing at the FEI CCI2* level or higher. Since its inception, the grant has begun to demonstrate its impact on recipients, prompting the Rimora Foundation to honor Picken’s legacy by sustaining the program for several more years through a $20,000 matching challenge in 2026.

Picken firmly believed that specialized show jumping training was essential to success for event riders. His methodical approach, keen attention to detail, and ability to perform under immense pressure helped his students at all levels produce clear rounds when it mattered most.

“He taught young riders with the same commitment and interest that he coached high performance riders,” said Picken’s wife, Joanie Morris. “He believed in a systematic approach to developing horses and riders and was committed to the long game. There were no shortcuts—he would not rush—and most of the time that paid off when it mattered most. It’s been more than three years since he died, and people still come up to me and say they think of him in their training, in their warm-up, or when they jump a clear round. I believe this grant continues his legacy and helps build the future of our sport.”

Picken enjoyed the training at home as much as, if not more than, the atmosphere of major competitions. Competitive to his core, he understood that a clear round under pressure rarely happened by accident. He was deeply committed to instilling the skills, focus, and preparation needed to deliver consistent results. Picken frequently drove through the night to coach riders up and down the East Coast, particularly in the lead-up to major events and championships, and he approached the 20th lesson of the day with the same energy and dedication as the first. His courses and exercises remain set in arenas across the country, reflecting the breadth of his influence through regular clinics in Texas, California, Washington, Michigan, Kentucky, and the Mid-Atlantic.

Caitlin O’Roark, a 2023 recipient of the Richard Picken Memorial Grant, shared that the support significantly improved her show jumping performance while also strengthening her mental approach in competition. O’Roark primarily used the grant funds to train with Scott Keach.

“Overall, it has had a huge positive impact on my riding in all three phases,” she said. “It has affected my riding in the competition ring, but has also expanded my skill set and improved my patience in training the many horses I encounter.”

Another 2023 recipient, Olivia Dutton, used her award to train and compete in the jumper ring with Olympian Lauren Hough.

“My horse, Sea of Clouds, and I really benefitted from that work,” Dutton said. “I would not have been able to have such good results or get so much help without the Richard Picken grant.”

USEA RevitaVet Young Rider of the Year Meg Pellegrini is the recipient of the Richard Picken Memorial Grant for the 2026 competition season. The USEA Foundation looks forward to seeing how Pellegrini will utilize this support in the year ahead.

You can help ensure this grant continues to provide critical funding to future riders by donating at www.USEAFoundation.org. The Rimora Foundation will match all donations up to $20,000 during 2026. Double your impact on eventing’s future by donating today.

Bruce’s Field Welcomes LiftMaster “Home” as Title Sponsor of 2026 $100,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase

By on Feb 6, 2026 12:30 pm -

The Aiken Horse Park Foundation is honored to welcome LiftMaster back “home” as the Title Sponsor of the 2026 $100,000 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field, p/b Taylor, Harris Insurance Services, returning February 27–28, 2026 in Aiken, South Carolina.

A cherished winter tradition on the national eventing calendar, the LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase offers a spectator-first take on the sport’s three phases — dressage, show jumping, and cross-country — thoughtfully condensed into a format designed to bring fans closer to the action, the horses, and the riders they admire.

“Having LiftMaster return as the title sponsor of this event continues to cement its place of visibility and importance on the eventing calendar. Not only is the GPE one of the top four biggest prizes in eventing in the States, but it is an integral part of the preparation for our team horses and riders. We have championship atmosphere and intensity in a showcase environment and the $100,000 in prize money is a key component to that world-class feel,” said Joanie Morris, COO Aiken Horse Park Foundation.

“We’re thrilled to be back as the title sponsor of the Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase” said Erich Stuckmeyer, EVP and Chief Product Officer of Chamberlain Group, the parent company of LiftMaster. “This event is particularly meaningful for LiftMaster as it has deep roots in our business – both from an access control and security standpoint, and also due to our direct connection to Bruce’s Field.”

LiftMaster’s return feels especially meaningful at Bruce’s Field, a venue rooted in vision, generosity, and legacy. The field bears the name of Bruce Duchossois, whose dream helped shape what is now one of Aiken’s most beloved gathering places. LiftMaster was the inaugural Title Sponsor of the very first $100,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase in 2019 and remained in that role through 2020 and 2021, helping lay the foundation for what has become one of Aiken’s most anticipated winter traditions. Their return this year feels less like a new sponsorship and more like a natural and welcome homecoming to an event they helped bring to life.

“We are pleased to welcome LiftMaster back to Aiken as our title sponsor. Privacy, safety, and security are essential considerations for equestrian properties, and LiftMaster gates represent the gold standard in the industry. This renewed partnership reflects a strong alignment of values and underscores the Foundation’s increasing ability to deliver meaningful brand visibility and engagement for corporate partners seeking to connect with a highly discerning equestrian audience,” said Tara Bostwick, CEO Aiken Horse Park Foundation. 

The 2026 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase begins Friday morning with dressage, followed by show jumping that afternoon. On Saturday, the fan-favorite cross-country phase unfolds across the park, where horses and riders navigate bold, technical efforts in a format that is easy to follow and electric to watch.

At Bruce’s Field, the experience is as welcoming as it is exciting. Spectators are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket, settle in for the day, and enjoy not only world-class sport but a lively Vendor Village, food and beverage offerings, and a crowd that ranges from lifelong eventing fans to first-time visitors who “just came to see what this was all about.” Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome, and the atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and distinctly Aiken.

Ticketing is designed to be simple and flexible for both day-trippers and weekend visitors. General Admission includes full weekend passes (Friday + Saturday) as well as single-day options. Children 12 and under attend free, making the Showcase an easy “bring the whole crew” outing.

For those looking for a more elevated experience, a limited number of VIP hospitality tickets are available and tend to sell quickly. Tailgating packages offer designated course-side space for groups to enjoy Saturday’s action in comfort and style. VIP and tailgating purchases close in mid-February and are not available at the gate, so advance purchase is strongly encouraged.

General Admission tickets are available online in advance, with day-of tickets potentially available at the gate (cash or check only).

While the Showcase highlights top sport, it is equally rooted in something deeper: giving back to the community that makes Bruce’s Field possible. A signature element of the weekend is Ride For Charity, which pairs elite riders with nonprofit beneficiaries and invites fans to rally behind the causes closest to their hearts. Each team is led by a prominent rider serving as Captain, competing not only for bragging rights, but for meaningful impact.

2026 Team Captains & Beneficiaries

  • Team Red — Allison Springer, Leg Up Experience
  • Team Orange — Monica Spencer, Aiken Equine Rescue
  • Team Yellow — Will Coleman, Old Barnwell USCA Caddie Scholarship
  • Team Green — Emily Hamel, Aiken County Pony Club
  • Team Blue — Phillip Dutton, Great Oak Equine Assisted Programs
  • Team Purple — Boyd Martin, Aiken Volunteer Mounted Unit

Additional details about Ride For Charity participation, fundraising, and team activities will be shared as event week approaches. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.

Media Contact
For media inquiries, interviews, sponsorship information, or event details:
Aiken Horse Park Foundation
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (803) 830-7077

About LiftMaster
LiftMaster is a leading brand of professionally installed residential garage door openers and a manufacturer of commercial door operators, residential and commercial gate operators, smart video intercoms, and smart door controllers. Driven by the access and security needs of today’s marketplace, LiftMaster’s expansive line of residential and commercial solutions is designed to fit any lifestyle or application—delivering the latest technology in safety, security, and convenience. Learn more at LiftMaster.com.

About the Aiken Horse Park Foundation
The Aiken Horse Park Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the stewardship and continued growth of Bruce’s Field in Aiken, South Carolina, supporting equestrian sport, community engagement, and charitable impact through world-class events and year-round access to the park. The MISSION of the Aiken Horse Park Foundation is to promote Aiken’s equestrian way of life and encourage the community’s civic, educational, and charitable endeavors.

Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation Announces New Modified Division as Perpetual Fundraiser

By on Jan 30, 2026 9:30 am -

. Photo from Karen Fulton.

The Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation (FMFEF) is thrilled to announce the introduction of a Modified division at all 2026 recognized FMF Horse Trials — established with the intention of creating a recurring, annual fundraiser to support the Foundation’s mission of promoting inclusion within the equestrian community.

Beginning with the June 2026 Aloha HT, 100% of proceeds from all Full Moon Farm Modified-level entries will be donated directly to FMFEF. These funds will help advance the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to create a more welcoming, accessible, and equitable environment for riders, professionals, and spectators across the sport of eventing.

To successfully launch this new division and ensure it becomes a lasting fixture at FMF Horse Trials, FMFEF is kicking off a $10,000 fundraising campaign. This initial investment will allow FMF to purchase new Modified-level cross-country jumps and retrofit existing complexes to meet the specifications and safety standards required for the new division. These upgrades will not only elevate the competition experience but will also broaden the opportunities available to Area II competitors.

FMFEF board members enjoy a day of fundraising.

The first fundraising opportunity for the Modified division will be the FMFEF Spring Festival on April 12, 2026. The Spring Festival includes a Silent Auction, Derby X, Pet Costume contest, Pony Rides, and more! More details on the 2026 Spring Festival will be shared in the coming weeks. Please reach out to Katrina Davis ([email protected]) if you would like to donate to the silent auction or be a vendor at the festival.

Those interested in supporting the Modified division fundraiser can make Direct donations via PayPal or check, and follow FMFEF pages on Facebook & Instagram for more information.

About the Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation (FMFEF)

The Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation (FMFEF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. FMFEF strives to promote good horsemanship, prevent marginalization, and foster diversity, equity, and inclusion. We serve marginalized communities by developing and promoting educational resources, scholarships, and grants.

[Read our feature on FMFEF here]

Country Yucca Travel Grants Awarded to U25 Eventing Athletes

By on Dec 29, 2025 9:30 am -

Equestrian Canada’s Eventing High Performance Advisory Group is pleased to announce the Country Yucca Eventing Travel Grant U25 recipients for 2026. Designed to assist young Canadian eventing athletes aged 16-25 in furthering their competition experience either across North America or overseas, $20,000 (CAD) total in grants is distributed once per calendar year to up to four recipients, with $5,000 for travel within North America, or $10,000 for overseas travel.

These generous annual grants were established and named in honour of Country Yucca, a pony with a huge heart and personality ridden by Nick Holmes-Smith, who later went on to represent Canada in Eventing at the Seoul 1988 and Barcelona 1992 Olympics.

This year’s recipients – who were all named to the 2025 Eventing High Performance Development Squad – are:

  • Kyle Morton – 22, Cobourg, Ontario (residing in Hamburg, Germany)
  • Emma McHugh – 21, Beaconsfield, QC (based in Virginia and Florida)
  • Gabrielle Shank – 23, Sturgeon County, AB
  • Mégane Sauvé – 24, Saint-Paul, QC

Kyle Morton spent 2025 campaigning Shannondale Gambit, his striking grey 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse, at the CCI2*/3*/4* level in Europe. “This grant is incredible,” he said. “To be supported by a federation such as Equestrian Canada, who has always been behind me throughout my career, is second to none. Next season I plan to travel to Ireland for the U25 World Championships in Millstreet, so this grant will be immensely valuable in getting me there!”

Emma McHugh had a busy summer in Canada and the U.S. competing her 2* horses Ricochet, Imperial and Quality Explosion. She remarked, “I’m incredibly grateful to the Canadian Eventing High Performance Advisory Group, and especially to Nick Holmes-Smith, for generously supporting Young Riders like me through the Country Yucca Travel Grant. Making it in this sport is extremely challenging financially, and receiving this grant means so much. As a Young Rider working hard to represent Canada at the highest level, this support makes a huge difference. I’ll be putting these funds straight toward my upcoming FEI competitions.”

Alberta native Gabrielle Shank covered a lot of miles this summer, from Washington to Florida, with her 3* horse Billy, a 12-year-old ISH gelding. She recently received Rider of the Year honours from the Alberta Horse Trials Association, while Billy earned Horse of the Year. Regarding the Country Yucca grant, she noted, “Receiving this bursary truly means the world to me. As a western Canadian rider working toward the upper levels of eventing, opportunities to compete and train at the FEI level are limited, and support like this makes a meaningful difference. This funding allows me to continue developing my partnership with my horse, Billy, as we work toward the CCI3-L and progress toward Advanced in 2026. It will directly support our winter training and competition plan in Ocala, as well as our return to Rebecca Farm, two key steps in achieving our long-term goals.”

She added, “Balancing high-performance riding with my post-secondary studies can be challenging, and this bursary helps relieve some of the financial pressure so I can stay focused on improving, learning, and representing the Canadian Eventing U25 Development Team to the best of my ability. I’m incredibly grateful for this support and excited for the season ahead.”

This summer, Mégane Sauvé moved her 3* partner Nuance, an 11-year-old Thoroughbred mare, up to the 4* level at Bromont in August. “Receiving the U25 Country Yucca Travel Bursary not only means financial support for next year, but also that the hard work and effort poured into the sport are coming back around,” said the eventer. “Huge thank-you to the Eventing High Performance Advisory Group and Nick Holmes-Smith for putting this grant together. As a U25 athlete trying to build a career in eventing out of a childhood dream, I am very grateful to have been chosen to receive this grant.”

Country Yucca: The Inspiration

Country Yucca represented the resilience of a true cross-country athlete; the pony loved cross-country and he was hard to miss with his signature bald face and four white socks. Some might have thought Yucca was too small to jump the more advanced fences, but he quickly proved otherwise.

Over the years, his rider, Nick Holmes-Smith, has mentored and influenced many Canadian eventers, including several riders who have gone on to wear the maple leaf. Bruce Mandeville, Rebecca Howard, and Michael Winter have all been fortunate to have worked with Nick on their road to representing Team Canada.

Holmes-Smith explained, “In the 1970s to early 1990s, as an eventing competitor I struggled to afford the costs of travelling and competing. I am now very happy to be able to help today’s riders with their financial challenges.”

Rebecca Howard, Technical Advisor and chef d’équipe of Canadian Eventing High Performance, said. “The Country Yucca grants are an example of influence coming full circle. Nick and Yucca symbolize the tenacity and ‘get-it-done’ attitude required of our Canadian athletes operating in a small sport in a very large country. Pushing boundaries is in his DNA. These grants showcase eventing and horses as a life-long endeavour and the impact of those who paved the way for others. This is an investment in our sports future, providing developing riders access to more competitions, training opportunities and exposure to ‘the next level’.”

For more information about the Country Yucca Eventing Travel Grants, click here.

Isabelle Bosley and Conner Receive the USET Foundation’s 2026 Connaught Grant in Memory of R. Bruce Duchossois

By on Dec 22, 2025 9:00 am -

USEA Photo

The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation awarded Isabelle Bosley and Conner, Karen Martin’s eight-year-old Oldenburg gelding by Casiro 3 x Concetto, the 2026 Connaught Grant in Memory of R. Bruce Duchossois at the United States Eventing Association (USEA) year-end awards dinner in New Orleans, Louisiana, on December 14, 2025.

Each year, the USET Foundation awards up to $25,000 to a developing horse seen as a potential future 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 event horses in the U.S. The grant is named after Connaught, a horse owned by Duchossois and ridden by Phillip Dutton — Bosley’s mentor — at the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games and 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

Conner and Bosley had a remarkable season in 2025. After winning the CCI2*-S at Stable View, South Carolina, in April, the 28-year-old rider stepped Conner up to the three-star level later that month and finished second in their debut CCI3*-S at Fair Hill International, Maryland.

In June, they recorded their first win at the new level, leading the CCI3*-S at Adamstown, Maryland, on 37.3 penalties. In October, the duo led the CCI3*-L at the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill from start to finish, completing on their impressive dressage score of 24.8 penalties. They recorded no jumping faults in the show jumping phase in any of their five international starts in 2025. They have won four of their last six events — an incredible achievement.

“I had thought that maybe Conner had a chance at getting this grant because he’s had a pretty decent year,” said Bosley. “I went to the USEA gala because he was intermediate horse of the year, but when it was announced that we had also been awarded the USET Foundation’s Connaught Grant, it was still a surprise.

“It’s such nice recognition for him and for Karen, his owner, who has been so supportive. She has allowed me to take time and not put pressure on the horse, so I am particularly honored to receive this grant. It means a lot to have this special horse recognized in this way,” she continued. “We’ve always thought that Conner is pretty cool, and to have that acknowledged by other people is very special.

“There are so many expenses involved with eventing every year, and it’s a constant battle to keep up, be competitive, and do all the things everyone else is doing,” she continued. “It’s so hard when you are limited by financial constraints, so to have a grant like this that removes some of those limitations makes a huge difference.”

“We are delighted to award Isabelle Bosley and her talented horse, Conner, the 2026 Connaught Grant in Memory of R. Bruce Duchossois,” said USET Foundation Executive Director Bonnie B. Jenkins. “Supporting up-and-coming horse-and-athlete combinations is essential to building the future of our sport, and this grant reflects our commitment to helping promising partnerships gain the experience, confidence, and resources they need along the US Equestrian (USEF) Eventing High Performance Pathway to top-level competition. Isabelle and Conner exemplify the dedication, potential, and horsemanship this grant was created to encourage, and we are proud to support them as they pursue their goals on the national and international stage.”

Isabelle Bosley and Conner won the MARS Maryland 5 Star CCI3*-L on their dressage score of 24.8 penalties.
Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography

Although Conner only stepped up to the intermediate level in 2025, Bosley has long felt that he encapsulates all the qualities of an elite event horse capable of excelling in all three disciplines.

She plans to use the Connaught Grant for competitions, fees, and training with Conner. She trains regularly with two-time U.S. Olympic eventing gold medalist Phillip Dutton in West Grove, Pennsylvania, and in Wellington, Florida, in the winter. She takes jumping lessons with U.S. jumping Olympian Lauren Hough, as well as sessions with other trainers including Bettina Hoy and Brett Parberry.

Bosley noted that the financial pressures on riders and owners with competition horses are immense, and the pathway to the top is rarely linear. However, she has her sights set high with Conner.

“I certainly have big goals with him,” she revealed. “The 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games could be a possibility, but if not, then the Games after that. I’d also love to get on other U.S. teams. The sky is the limit with him and, under Phillip, we’re in the best place to get there. Coupled with this grant to help support us, it’s all so exciting. Even though I have all these big goals, I’m still mindful to put Conner first every day. Sometimes the slower route gets you there quicker. Hopefully, we will move up to the advanced level this year, and then maybe set some overseas goals after that.

“Grants like this are what keep us riders going and help shape our careers,” concluded Bosley. “This support really allows us to keep pushing forward, meeting our goals, and staying at the top of sport. It makes all the difference, and I’m so grateful to the USET Foundation for this opportunity.”

Previous Connaught Grant Recipients:

2025 Sharon White and Jaguars Duende
2024 Boyd Martin and Commando 3
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

For additional information or to support the USET Foundation and U.S. equestrian athletes, visit https://www.uset.org/donate/.

The First Standalone USEA Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Eventing Championships are Coming to Stable View in 2026

By on Dec 10, 2025 9:00 am -

Photo by Annan Hepner / USEA.

The USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Eventing Championships have become a spring staple for 5th through 12th graders and undergraduate collegiate athletes. The weekend brings joy, camaraderie, and celebration of a year of growth with their fellow teammates, and a chance to represent their school on the big stage. Each year, interest in the Championships has grown, and with the help of our partners at Stable View, the USEA is thrilled that 2026 will mark the first standalone event for program members.

This means that on the weekend of May 15-17, 2026, the USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Eventing Championships will be held exclusively for Intercollegiate and Interscholastic program members. In the past, the championships have been hosted alongside an existing USEA-recognized horse trial to bolster numbers, but now that the championships have proven to attract the interest of more than 200 participants each year, there isn’t a need for non-championship entries. The growth of the joint championships over the last two years since the inaugural event in 2024 has been nothing short of incredible, and that is thanks to the enthusiasm of the students’ athletes and their support networks.

“Stable View is looking forward to welcoming students to the first standalone USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Eventing Championships,” said Barry Olliff, co-owner of Stable View with his wife, Cindy Olliff. “The ongoing development of these Championships has been very inspiring to watch. We will be continuing to play our part in what has become one of the outstanding events on the Stable View Eventing calendar.”

The Intercollegiate & IEL Championships have been proudly hosted by Stable View for the last two years, and the Event Organizers have dedicated themselves to enhancing the experience for the competitors at every turn. In addition to opening and closing ceremonies, evening parties and team bonding opportunities each night of the event, and creative Spirit Award competitions, Stable View offered a College Fair in 2025 that gained great traction, allowing collegiate members to promote their programs to the IEL riders as they consider the next steps in their educational and eventing journey.

In 2026, there will be even more in store. The USEA plans to include exciting educational opportunities for students to attend, including a session on grooming and horsemanship best practices, and there will be exclusive championships merch available at the Shop USEA booth on-site for the first time.

“We are thrilled to see the evolution of the Intercollegiate & IEL Championships into the first standalone event,” exclaimed Rob Burk, USEA CEO. “I am so thankful for the work of the respective committees and USEA staff who have championed these programs. This is the culmination of years of effort on their part. We can’t wait for an even bigger and better event at Stable View next spring!”

If you haven’t already, sign up to join the Championships WhatsApp group hosted by Stable View for updates in the lead up to the event. Click here or scan the QR code to the right to join the group. Both championships will host divisions at the Starter through Preliminary levels, and Spirit Awards will be offered separately for each program. There will be no qualifications necessary to enter the Intercollegiate Eventing Championship or the IEL Championship, however, all schools and teams represented must be registered affiliates of the USEA.

Don’t forget to submit your Collegiate Team Applications or IEL Application Forms, along with an official roster, to Jennifer Hardwick, USEA Senior Director of Membership Services, at [email protected] by February 15, 2025.

All collegiate participants must be enrolled as undergraduate students, or with their school’s approval, be no more than 6 months past the completion of their undergraduate education, allowing December graduates to compete in the May championship. Collegiate participants are also required to hold an active USEA Membership, and if they intend to compete in the Championship, they must hold a Full or Life membership.

If you attend an accredited university or college that isn’t currently listed on the Intercollegiate Eventing Program List, consider starting a new team by reviewing the program information here and submitting a Collegiate Team Application.

All IEL participants must be enrolled in 5th through 12th grade at a public school, private school, online school or homeschool program. Unlike the Intercollegiate Eventing Program, IEL Clubs can be made up of any group of junior riders who share a common bond – like riding at the same barn, competing with the same trainer, attending the same school or being a part of the same Pony Club. For a list of the current Interscholastic Eventing Clubs, please click here. All Interscholastic participants are also required to hold an active USEA Membership, and if they intend to compete in the Championship, they must hold a Full or Life membership.

If you are interested in starting a new IEL Club, click here to learn more about the program and submit an IEL Application Form today. Any questions regarding the Intercollegiate Eventing Program or Interscholastic Eventing League and the upcoming 2026 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. Many events across the country offer Intercollegiate Team Challenges where collegiate eventers can compete individually or in 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 2026 USEA Intercollegiate & IEL Championships will be held at Stable View in Aiken, South Carolina, on May 15-17. Click here to learn more about the Intercollegiate Eventing Program.

The USEA would like to thank Bates Saddles, Horse & Country, Kerrits, PulseVet, Sidelines, U.S. Equestrian, WeRideTogether, World Equestrian Brands and Young Rider Magazine 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 grade 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 Club. The 2026 USEA Intercollegiate & IEL Championships will be held at Stable View in Aiken, South Carolina, on May 15-17. Click here to learn more about the Interscholastic Eventing League.

The USEA would like to thank Bates Saddles, Horse & Country, Kerrits, PulseVet, Sidelines, U.S. Equestrian, WeRideTogether, World Equestrian Brands, and Young Rider Magazine for sponsoring the USEA Interscholastic Eventing League.

India’s Ashish Limaye Wins Eventing Gold and Thailand Earns Team Gold at FEI Asian Championships

By on Dec 5, 2025 11:30 am -

Ashish Lamaye wins individual gold for India at the FEI Asian Championships. Photo: FEI / Yong Teck Lim

The Thai Polo & Equestrian Club stadium arena hosted the final test for the eventing discipline, the CCI3* show jumping, at the FEI Asian Championships 2025 Pattaya this past weekend. With the last five to go at less than a rail’s penalty apart and afternoon temperatures hitting 34°C (93°F), all present could feel the heat literally and figuratively.

Entering the arena in the penultimate position, Ashish Limaye (IND) and Willy Be Dun mastered the questions asked without fault, keeping their penalty point total at 29.4 and putting the pressure on the last to go, Thailand’s Korntawat Samran and B.Grimm Billy Elmy.

Lowering the height of one jump on course caused Samran to add four penalty points, and finish with a score of 32.8 for the bronze. Rising into the silver spot on the podium were Patrick Lam and Jockey Club Highdown March. Lam rode the track fault free and remained on a score of 30.1 penalty points, moving up from fourth to second overall.

The Olaf Petersen, Jr. (GER) designed course asked riders to negotiate several related distances, as well as a double combination, a triple bar and a triple combination. Inviting but not easy, rails fell throughout the 14 effort track. Only four championship competitors finished without jumping or time faults.

Ashish Lamaye and Willy Be Dun. Photo: FEI / Yong Teck Lim

With the pressure on as he entered the arena, Limaye stayed focused on the ride. “I was only thinking about going clear, not winning a medal,” he admitted. “But after being clear, then, yes, I was hoping for gold.”

Winning India’s first gold at an Asian Championship, Limaye was knocking at the podium door in each phase, finishing third in dressage, then moving into second after cross country and ultimately finishing first after his fault free ride in show jumping.

The gold medalist was on his way to a medal position in 2023 when he missed a fence on cross country. “It feels like I’ve redeemed myself,” he admitted and then credited his horse. “He is one that gives you 100%. I can trust him. With the relationship we’ve developed over the last three years, I know I can count on him.”

Silver medalist Lam, who is also competing in the show jumping discipline at the Championships that started today, spoke highly of both the event organizers and his owners.

“A massive thank you to all the organizers. The facility is amazing. And to my owners, a big thanks to them. Let’s hope we come back in two years!”

Team Gold Goes to host country Thailand

Team Thailand wins gold! Photo: FEI / Yong Teck Lim

With a cumulative score of 117.6 penalties, Team Thailand secured gold on home turf. India came in a close second, winning silver with a total of 121.8, narrowly beating Hong Kong, China, who finished with 122.9, earning bronze.

Even with incurring a single rail, Samran’s performance with B. Grimm Billy Elmy was top notch. The twenty-eight year old’s overall achievement of team gold and an individual bronze is admirable.
“My horse was amazing today. He gave me his best in dressage and cross country and even today he jumped well. I missed one jump because I was a bit too open and that is why we had one down. I am very thankful to the owners and the groom and everyone behind us.”
Teammate Weerapat Pitakanonda, who finished with 37.3 penalties, praised his horse, Billy Grimm Carnival March, as well as his supporters and the team.

“I am so proud – the longer we are together the more we understand each other. Thank you for the support from the owner and also my family. Without them it would not be possible to have this medal. The atmosphere is great and I was very happy to compete at home. The team spirit is amazing, we know each other well.”

The FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2025 were hosted at B.Grimm Country Club, also known as Thai Polo & Equestrian Club Pattaya, with the support of B.Grimm.

FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2025 (Thailand): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]

Wednesday News & Notes

By on Dec 3, 2025 12:01 am -

A new podcast featuring 5* rider and Olympian Will Coleman has hit the airwaves! Tune into the latest episode of Dear Horse World on your favorite platform (we’ll also drop the video at the bottom of this post) and listen to Will’s background with horses, what he feels makes them tick, what’s been his biggest inspiration and so much more.

U.S. Events This Week

Rocking Horse December H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [Volunteer]

Full Gallop Farm Jingle Bells H.T. (SC): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

We’d love your help shaping Season 2 of The Go Eventing Podcast! Take our quick listener survey here and let us know what you want more of in 2026!

The pink and green were out in force this season as Class Act Farm from Apopka, FL racked up two big wins in the USEA Interscholastic Eventing League (IEL). Trainer Jennie Jarnstrom-Dennis has long fostered a positive, team-based barn culture, and when barn mom Courtney Borton suggested forming an IEL Club, the match was natural. Now, with 10 riders on the squad and goals set for the 2026 IEL Championships at Stable View, the Class Act crew is proving that team spirit, horsemanship, and friendship go a long way—whether you’re riding at Starter or an FEI level. Read more on this story here.

During this season of giving, take a moment to appreciate the unsung heroes of our sport: nonprofit horse show venues. From Virginia Horse Center to Paso Robles, Carolina Horse Park to Bruce’s Field, these community-backed facilities reinvest every dollar into footing upgrades, educational programs, and preserving equestrian access for future generations. In a landscape increasingly dominated by commercial venues, these nonprofits keep horsemanship and tradition at the forefront. You can read more and learn how you can give back here.

Video Break

Will Coleman on the latest episode of Dear Horse World:

Lead Changes on Eventing Day Two as Thailand’s Korntawat Samran Takes Over Top Spot at FEI Asian Championships

By on Dec 2, 2025 11:28 am -

Korntawat Samran (THA) and B.Grimm Billy Elmy. Photo by Yong Teck Lim.

The FEI Asian Championships 2025 CCI2* cross country phase ran in the morning before the day reached max temperature of over 31°C (89°F). As we often see after the completion of this phase, the placings shifted just a bit. Thailand’s Korntawat Samran and B.Grimm Billy Elmy (Qif Elmy x Dandy de Surcy), owned by Mr. Harald Link & Ms. Nunthinee Tanner, took over the top spot, keeping their penalty score at 28.8. Sitting on a penalty score of 29.4, Ashish Limaye (IND) aboard Willy Be Dun took over the second spot. Still in the top three, Alex Hua Tian (CHN) and Manjushri were clear over the course, but incurred 2.4 time penalties, for a score of 29.6.

Partnered with his mount for three years now, Samran said, “He gave me his best out there and he was really motivated.”

The attractive 22 obstacle course, with four combinations, designed by Helen West of Great Britain, overall rode quite well with a few challenging spots. Samran indicated that the middle elements from fence 13 to 14, where going downhill with a sharp angle was the trickiest aspect. Limaye noted that the last water element at 20AB, which required riders to jump over a skinny elephant down into the water and to negotiate another elephant at element B while splashing through the water, was the most difficult.

Statistically, six competitors completed the track clear inside the time, including the current top two, while four riders completed the course with just time penalties. With less than a rail separating the top five riders, tomorrow’s show jumping phase is poised to be a nail-biter that could completely reshuffle the podium.

Now based in France, Samran feels the pressure of riding in an FEI Championship on home turf. “Of course there is pressure at any event, but even more at your home. I am more than happy to be here and put the pressure on myself, because it has been a long time since I’ve been back.”

When asked about tomorrow’s test in the show jumping arena, Samran felt confident, Limaye noted “fingers crossed” and Hua Tian said “Tomorrow is another day. I hope to jump a nice clear round and put the pressure on these two boys.”

Ashish Limaye (IND) and Willy Be Dun. Photo by Yong Teck Lim.

Team Standings

After day two, Hong Kong, China held their lead in the team standings on a total of 101.3 penalty points. At 105.6 penalty points, Thailand moved into the second spot, with just over a rail separating them from Hong Kong, China. India is currently third with a cumulative 121.

Alex Lachore (GBR), Eventing Technical Delegate (TD) who has been a part of international events all over the world, tipped his hat to the organizers “I think the organization of this Asian Championships has been fantastic, first class. The facilities for the horses today were amazing. Welfare was paramount with an excellent team of vets and doctors out there.”

The FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2025 are being hosted at B.Grimm Country Club, also known as Thai Polo & Equestrian Club Pattaya, with the support of B.Grimm.

FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2025 (Thailand): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream]

How to Support the Waredaca Eventing Education Foundation on Giving Tuesday

By on Dec 2, 2025 11:09 am -

WEEF Scholarship recipient Nicole Carlone and Mr. Incredible at the Event at Rebecca Farm. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

December marks the finale of the Waredaca Eventing Education Foundation’s (WEEF) third year of supporting ambitious junior and adult amateur eventers from across the country through the Jimmy Wofford Legacy Fund Scholarship program. This year, thanks to the generous support of WEEF donors, the Wofford Legacy Fund awarded eight scholarships to eight riders competing in seven different USEA Classic 3 Day events. This year’s Wofford Scholarship recipients impressively represented the culture and values of the Classic 3 Day format through strategic preparation, diligent horse care and responsible day-of decision making. WEEF is proud to partner with the dedicated organizers of each Classic format venue in creating these valuable opportunities for the growth of our sport.

This year’s Wofford Scholarship winners were:
• Zara Bewley and her horse Blue Wallaby, Indiana Eventing Association H.T.
• Arianah Romero and her horse Flash of Gray, Summer Coconino Classic Three-Day
• Nicole Carlone and her horse Mr. Incredible, the Event at Rebecca Farm
• Cassidy Thompson and her horse Hector, Spokane Sport Horse H.T.
• Simone Cardosa and her horse I’d Toast to That!, Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event
• Paulina Sobolewski and her horse No Strings Attached, Waredaca Classic Three-Day Event and H.T.
• Cammie Gregg and her horse Nikki Beach, Waredaca Classic Three-Day Event and H.T.
• Leona Sobehrad and her horse Flying Solo, Ram Tap H.T. and Classic 3-Day

The Wofford Scholarship awards a free entry to a WEEF partnered Classic 3 Day and $1,000 to be used towards fees associated with preparing for and competing in a Classic 3 Day event. Recipients expressed an overwhelming gratefulness for the opportunity this scholarship creates for riders eager to compete at a Classic 3 Day. By decreasing some of the financial barriers associated with the long-format competition, the Wofford Scholarship aims to both celebrate the traditional format and support those riders dedicated to presenting a fit, sound, and competitive horse to the event. Those awarded the Wofford Scholarships in 2025 proved to be exemplary horsemen and competitors, embracing the challenge of the classic format, and prioritizing their horses every step of the way.

WEEF Scholarship recipient Paulina Sobolewski and her horse No Strings Attached at the Waredaca Classic Three-Day. Photo by Maya Kuntz Photography.

Arianah Romero, Wofford Scholarship recipient for the Summer Coconino Classic shared, “This scholarship had a tremendous impact on my ability to both participate in and prepare for the event. Without it, I would have faced significant financial barriers that could’ve limited our training, travel, and even the opportunity to enter.” She added, “[The scholarship] allowed me to invest in proper conditioning for my horse, access to ample coaching, and focus more fully on our preparation without the constant stress of budgeting every detail. I truly feel that this opportunity elevated our entire experience and played a huge role in our success at the event.”

Paulina Sobolewski, Wofford Scholarship adult amateur recipient for the Waredaca Classic said, “This scholarship was a huge impact in allowing me to participate in a three-day long format. Without it, I would not have been able to financially afford the fees. The scholarship motivated me, pushed me to stick with my preparation game plan. I am forever grateful for the opportunity!”

WEEF would like to congratulate all the 2025 Wofford Scholarship winners and thank our generous donors and Classic Series partners. WEEF looks forward to the continued celebration of Jimmy Wofford’s legacy to eventing through supporting the Classic series.

Be sure to follow WEEF on social media for 2026 Wofford Scholarship application deadlines. To contribute to the impact WEEF is creating through Jimmy Wofford Legacy Fund scholarships, please donate here.

Sweet Redemption for Niklas Lindbäck with Agria Indoor Eventing Victory at Sweden International Horse Show

By on Dec 2, 2025 9:30 am -

From last to first. Niklas Lindbäck made a strong comeback in Sunday’s final of the Agria Indoor Eventing. Roland Thunholm/SIHS photo.

Just three days after falling off his horse Focus Filiocus in the warm up of the Indoor Eventing at Sweden International Horse Show, Swedish eventer Niklas Lindbäck made a remarkable comeback. On Sunday evening, he secured the victory in the Agria Indoor Eventing final.

What began with a dramatic setback on Thursday turned into a triumphant finish for Niklas Lindbäck. After parting ways with Focus Filiocus in the Strawberry Arena earlier in the week, Lindbäck returned stronger than ever. The duo delivered a flawless and lightning-fast round to claim the Agria Indoor Eventing title. The pair stopped the clock at an impressive 32.72 seconds with no penalties, a performance that echoed Frida Andersén’s comeback victory last year.

For Lindbäck, Sunday’s performance was the perfect response to a frustrating start to the week.

“I needed this after Thursday’s fall. I was frustrated because it was completely my fault. But we had a couple of days to reset, and I found my motivation again,” says Niklas Lindbäck. With more than a decade of international experience, Niklas Lindbäck and “Focus” remain one of Sweden’s most seasoned combinations. “My horse is incredible and I’m so grateful for him. Today I really got to show what Focus can do. As the first rider out, I didn’t think my time would hold, but it did. Winning is always a thrill, and we’re really enjoying this moment.”

Close behind was fellow Swede Anna Freskgård, who piloted her former top horse Techno to an identical time of 32.72 seconds. A late knockdown forced Anna to add four penalty seconds, placing her second, mirroring her runner-up finish in Thursday’s warm-up class. Having competed up to five-star level, the partnership’s reunion was a highlight in itself.

“I started riding Techno in 2018 when his owner Sophia Ericsson asked if I could take him for a season, and that turned into five. He went back to Sophia two years ago, and I haven’t competed him since, so this felt like a real reunion,” says Anna Freskgård.

Germany’s Rebecca-Juana Gerken and Fame 227 finished third in 38.24 seconds, while Thursday’s winner Sofia Sjöborg delivered a blistering time but slipped to fourth after picking up eight penalty seconds.

Agria Indoor Eventing – Final Results

Niklas Lindbäck / Focus Filiocus (SWE) – 32.72 sec
Anna Freskgård / Techno (SWE) – 36.72 sec
Rebecca-Juana Gerken / Fame 227 (GER) – 38.24 sec

Complete results can be found here.

China’s Alex Hua Tian Takes the Lead on Eventing Day One at FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2025

By on Dec 1, 2025 12:05 pm -

Alex Hua Tian and Manjushri. Photo by Yong Teck Lim.

Dressage competition kicked off the Eventing discipline at the FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2025 this afternoon. Alex Hua Tian (CHN) and the Irish Sport Horse Manjushri, known as Bodhi in the barn, took the lead riding the CCI3* test to an impressive 27.2 penalty points. The last ride in the arena proved second best when Thai rider Korntawat Samran rode B.Grimm Billy Elmy to wrap up the first phase with 28.8. Rounding out the top three as we head into tomorrow’s cross country competition is Ashish Limaye (IND) aboard Willy Be Dun who finished on a score of 29.4.

“I’m really happy with Bodhi. He has such talent and quality in all phases,” Alex Hua Tian said of his horse.“I felt he really tried for me. We did make some small uncharacteristic mistakes, so I was a bit nervous watching the last few horses.”

Horse and rider combinations representing five nations throughout Asia will head out on the cross-country course tomorrow morning. A demanding test of endurance and ability, the CCI 2*-L track includes 22 efforts. With questions asked throughout the course, the leaderboard often changes in this phase.

Alex Hua Tian and Manjushri. Photo by Yong Teck Lim.

Hua Tian looks forward to the challenge. “Helen’s course looks great,” he said. “The strongest I’ve seen at this level in Asia so far.”

After day one, Hong Kong leads the team standings on a total of 92.2 penalty points. Chef D’Equipe, Corinne Bracken, noted “With the tragedy that has struck Hong Kong in the last few days, obviously it is at the forefront of our minds. However, I think my riders showed strength and I’m immensely proud of their performance showing solidarity as a team.”

Finishing the day with a total of 99, India sits second in the teams standings, while Thailand is currently third with a cumulative 103.2. “Very happy to be here in Thailand competing in Asia,” Hua Tian, who is based in Britain, said. He echoes what other Championship competitors have also commented,“Thailand and Thai Polo have put on such a nice event, it really is paradise.”

FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2025 (Thailand): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream]

Eventers Win Big at 2025 Horse & Hound Awards

By on Nov 28, 2025 4:24 pm -

Ros Canter takes the Professional Rider of the Year title at the Horse & Hound Awards. Photo courtesy of Horse & Hound.

Jane Holderness-Roddam collected the Horse & Hound Lifetime Achievement Awards at last night’s Horse & Hound Awards, in partnership with NAF and Agria. Jane, a double Badminton winner and Britain’s first female Olympic eventing team gold medallist, announced in August that West Kington Stud, which she founded with her late husband Tim, will close at the end of the year. As well as her personal riding achievements and the work of the stud, Jane has given her time, knowledge and energy unstintingly to numerous causes in the horse world and the audience took to their feet to recognise her contribution.

Receiving the award from former Lifetime Achievement winner, longstanding Horse & Hound columnist and team-mate Mark Phillips, Jane reminisced about the fairytale of taking Our Nobby from Pony Club teams right through to Badminton and the Olympics.

“My family have been a fantastic support to me all along and of course everybody else, but none of us would be here if it wasn’t for the horse,” she said, raising spontaneous applause from the guests. “Horses are everything – they helped me so much when my parents died when I was quite young. The best thing was going out for a ride and crying my eyes out with Our Nobby. Whenever anything happened, I’d just go out and talk to the horses and they often put me back on track, which is wonderful.”

The 10th Horse & Hound Awards took place at Dallas Burston Polo Club in Warwickshire, where some 300 people gathered to celebrate the equestrian stars of 2025. More than 107,000 votes were cast as fans rallied to support their idols, as
well as unsung heroes of the horse world. Badminton and Burghley winner Ros Canter and her ride Lordships Graffalo were big winners too, taking home an award each. Ros picked up the Zoetis Professional Rider of the Year award and co-owner Michele Saul joined Ros on stage to collect Lordships Graffalo’s Hit-Air Event Horse of the Year prize.

Ros said: “He’s a truly wonderful horse – not just a wonderful event horse, but a great character and a great person, so it’s a privilege to have him at home with us. He’s full of himself, he’s a confident kind of chap who loves pulling faces, licking things and is into everything. But equally he’s pretty chill – he goes to those big occasions and absolutely thrives. He never really gets nervous.”

Other winners included Becky Moody’s European team silver medallist Jagerbomb (Dressage Horse of the Year for the second year in a row), Scott Brash’s double European silver medallist Hello Folie (Showjumping Horse of the
Year), three-time Royal Windsor show pony champion Stoneleigh Showtime, ridden by Isabella Walker (Show Horse of the Year) and young rider showjumping European champion and puissance star Rachel Proudley (Young Rider of the
Year).

You can read more about the winners here.

The Horse & Hound Awards 2025 winners are:
● Zoetis Professional Rider of the Year: Ros Canter
● Baileys Horse Feeds Vet of the Year: Claire Maher
● Show Horse of the Year: Stoneleigh Showtime
● Horse & Hound Podcast Unsung Hero of the Year: Victoria Privett
● Hit-Air Event Horse of the Year: Lordships Graffalo
● Absorbine Groom of the Year: Kim Masson
● NAF Five Star PROFEET Farrier of the Year: Greig Elliott
● Showjumping Horse of the Year: Hello Folie
● SPILLERS Horse Feeds Pony of the Year: Mighty Max II
● Agria Horse of a Lifetime: Hovis
● Amateur Rider of the Year: Hollie Clark
● Dressage Horse of the Year: Jagerbomb
● Young Rider of the Year: Rachel Proudley
● Inspiration of the Year: Abi Lyle
● Horse & Hound Lifetime Achievement Award: Jane Holderness-Roddam

TerraNova Update: Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire Claim Victory in B&D Builders CCI4*-L

By on Nov 16, 2025 7:00 pm -

Sydney Elliott wins the B&D Builders CCI4*-L at TerraNova with Carol Stephens’ QC Diamantaire. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

In an epic conclusion to the feature event, the B&D Builders CCI4*-L, 11 horses returned for the final phase: stadium jumping.

After a double-clear cross-country round yesterday on a challenging course, Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire—known as “Q” at home—rose from second place to the top of the leaderboard. Today, Elliott and Q delivered yet another standout performance, jumping clear and finishing just one second over the optimum time to secure the CCI4*-L victory.

“After cross-country yesterday, he felt incredible—so fresh, and even during the hold on the cross-country course, he wasn’t breathing hard. That gave me a lot of confidence coming into today. He was very fresh this morning, which I was thankful for. He jumped well in the warm-up, and we kept things simple—I focused on not overthinking it. He knows his job and loves it, so I just let him enjoy himself out there—and here we are!”

Before heading into the final phase, Elliott walked the stadium course designed by Chris Barnard—one she described as fair, thoughtful, and true to his signature style.

“Chris’s courses are always so good,” Elliott says. “They ride exactly how they walk, as long as you keep a cool head. You have some leeway with the distances, which I appreciate. Even in the last line, I thought, ‘There might be a five stride here,’ but then I told myself not to get greedy and stick with the six. And honestly, it rode just the way it walked!”

With more than a decade of partnership in the show ring, Elliott and QC Diamantaire share a bond built on knowing each other inside and out.

“It’s been about ten years—going into our eleventh—and as my friend and groom likes to say, we’re basically identical characters,” Elliott says. “He’s a bit of a diva in the best way. He’s incredibly sweet and kind, but very particular about who’s around him, when he wants attention, and when he’d rather be left alone.”

Hayley Frielick and Sportsfield Lumiere. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Hayley Frielick and Sportsfield Lumiere also surged up the leaderboard yesterday, climbing from 5th to 2nd after a standout cross-country round. Today, they held their ranking, delivering an impressive double-clear in stadium jumping to secure second place against a highly competitive field.

The overnight third-placed pair, Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach Z, were unfortunately eliminated at the jog inspection and were unable to compete in today’s final phase.

The Estates at TerraNova & Laughlin Tanner Group CCI3*-L also wrapped up competition today with stadium jumping as its final phase—and a new pair rose to the top.

After dressage, Marley Stone Bourke and First Obama sat in 13th on a score of 32.2. Their double-clear cross-country round yesterday—with just 3.2 time faults—catapulted them into second place heading into the final phase.

Marley Stone Bourke and First Obama. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Today, Bourke and First Obama delivered once more, jumping clear and adding only 1.6 time faults in the stadium phase. Their accurate performance sealed the victory, securing the CCI3*-L win at The Event at TerraNova.

But what makes their win especially impressive is how new their partnership is—and how quickly the pair has found their rhythm together.

“I’ve actually only had him for a couple of months,” Bourke says. “This is probably our fifth event together. I’d been looking for a horse for about two years and just hadn’t found one I really loved. Tim was in Ireland for a wedding and got a random Facebook message from Michael O’Toole about this horse he thought we might be interested in. Tim tried him, and I bought him—I didn’t even get to try him myself. So, shout-out to my husband, Tim, for finding me the perfect horse. I’ve just gotten along with him so well, and I’m still learning how he wants to be ridden. We’ve only done a few competitions at this level together—the three-star shorts at Tryon and Morven Park, and a couple of intermediates—but he’s an incredible horse, and I’m fortunate to have him.”

After securing a strong position following cross-country, Bourke admitted she tried to stay focused on the ride itself rather than the leaderboard pressure heading into the final phase.

“I tried not to think about it too much,” Bourke says. “I know he’s a good jumper, and he’s really careful. If I’m honest, it wasn’t the best round of my life out there, but he’s such a good boy. For the future, it’s just about figuring him out a little more, so we’re not adding in quite so many strides. He wants to be careful, he wants to leave the rails up—what more can you ask for? And to be doing that after only a few months together really shows what a class horse he is. He’s just so genuine. He loves the job, he’s good in all three phases, and he’s like a little cat out on cross-country. He’s super careful and loves what he does, and it’s been amazing how quickly we’ve clicked—I feel really confident on him.”

Bourke emphasized that today’s win was a true team effort and credited the people behind the scenes who helped make this moment possible.

“I just want to say a big thank-you to my team. I’m fortunate to have such amazing people around me,” Bourke says. “My husband has put so much time and effort into helping me become the rider I want to be. And we have an incredible group of girls—Leah, my groom, takes impeccable care of him. I really try to surround myself with great people, and while the results don’t always show the work behind the scenes, today it’s special to have a result that reflects how wonderful my whole team is.”

Sydney Elliott and Greenhall Good Decision. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Sydney Elliott and Greenhall Good Decision began the competition tied for seventh after dressage with a score of 29.9. Following cross-country, they climbed into fourth place.

Although they finished well within the time, the pair picked up 11 penalties for activating the frangible pin at fence 6A. However, the fence 6 combination, part of the downhill-to-ditch combination, proved challenging for many in the division and contributed to multiple penalties, refusals, eliminations, and falls throughout the day.

Riley Zgrebnak (USA) and Cooley Criminal Mind, the overnight leaders after cross-country, incurred 12 unfortunate jumping faults in the stadium phase—though they added no time penalties—which dropped them to third in the final standings.

The Event at TerraNova (FL): [Website] [Scores]

Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire Jump to Top of TerraNova CCI4*-L; Will Coleman Takes CCI4*-S

By on Nov 15, 2025 9:15 pm -

Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

It was cross-country day for the CCI4*-L, CCI4*-S, and CCI3*-L competitors—and the final day of competition for the CCI4*-S, which completed both dressage and stadium jumping yesterday, at The Event at TerraNova (Myakka City, FL).

The B&D Builders CCI4*-L, which completed its dressage phase yesterday, saw Phillip Dutton and Possante in the lead with an impressive score of 26.8. Unfortunately, after a rider fall at Fence 6A on cross-country — the very influential rail ditch complex that caused a lot of trouble in both the 4*-L and 3*-L today — the pair will not move forward to tomorrow’s stadium jumping phase. Both Phillip and “Impy” were reported to be unharmed.

That left the door open for Sydney Elliott and Carol Stephens’ QC Diamantaire — previously sitting just behind Dutton in second with a dressage score of 29.3 — to move into the lead, which they did on an impressive double-clear cross-country round, even after being briefly held on course while a frangible pin was reset from the rider ahead of them, which didn’t seem to faze them.

Even with their second-placing dressage score, Sydney explained that the phase has taken years of steady refinement for QC Diamantaire.

“Dressage has been a work in progress with him,” she said. “He’s so striking and has great movement, but we’ve never really been consistently scoring in the 20s. I’ve been working with Bettina Hoy for the last few years, just chipping away little by little to improve in the phase.”

Sydney also shared that this season has been a significant comeback for both her and QC Diamantaire after she spent nearly a year out of the saddle.

“Cross-country was tough today—I love this phase, it’s why I do the sport—but it demanded a lot of accuracy. He can be a little quirky going into water, and that bounce in was pretty impressive, so I definitely lost some sleep over that. But he was incredible. The coffin combination was heavy on everyone’s minds, especially after riding the three-star this morning, and I was a bit cautious about it. Still, it rode well. The course was fair and challenging, and it’s exciting that the designer, Alec Lochore, is also working on the LA 2028 course—that was a big part of why we wanted to compete here.”

Their long partnership has also played a role in their success so far this weekend, and Sydney looks forward to the final phase of this event.

“I know Q really well at this point. We got him from good friends of ours when he was five—he’s 15 now—and he’s taken me everywhere, from Aachen to the Kentucky Three-Day Event,” she says. “We call him the unicorn because he truly is one of a kind—we probably won’t ever have another one like him. I’m excited for stadium jumping tomorrow, even though he might be a bit fresh depending on the atmosphere—fresh can be a good thing, though!”

Hayley Frielick and Sportsfield Lumiere. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Hayley Frielick of New Zealand and Sportsfield Lumiere also leaped ahead on the leaderboard, climbing from 5th after dressage to 2nd overall thanks to their double-clear cross-country round. Their performance was even more remarkable given that Frielick also only returned to riding a couple of months ago after breaking her leg earlier this year.

“Sportsfield Lumiere is phenomenal. He’s a 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse that my business partner, Martha Tomlinson, put on a plane and insisted I needed. I wasn’t planning on another horse, but incredible supporters made it possible, and he’s the most scopey, honest, genuine guy. Our lead-up wasn’t ideal—I broke my leg the day after Bromont, where he was second in the four-star long—so my whole summer was derailed. Thankfully, the team at Windurra, especially Silva Martin, stepped in when I couldn’t ride. It really does take a village, and her help made all the difference in the dressage phase this week.”

Frielick noted that today’s cross-country course was actually ideal for the pair, given her recent injury recovery. This was also the first time she had competed back at the four-star level since before her injury.

“The course was amazing—this is our first time at TerraNova, and it’s just beautiful,” she says. “The flatter terrain really suited us, especially with my recent recovery. But he was brilliant and so fast out there—he’s very scopey and he can save my bacon from any distance. I had a blast, and I knew I had to keep pushing to make the time, but he had plenty of gas in the tank and kept responding, answering every question out there.”

Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach Z. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Ema Klugman enjoyed a good day at the office with three horses in this division alone. She’s highest-placed with Bronte Beach, who made the influential track look like a walk in the park and moved into third on a score of 33.5. She’s also 5th with Chiraz, with whom she competed for Australia at Boekelo in October, and 11th and RF Redfern.

Following the Horse Inspection tomorrow morning, show jumping for the 4*-L will begin at 12:00 p.m. EST. You’ll be able to catch the live stream here.

Will Coleman Wins CCI4*-S on Comeback Tour with Diabolo

Will Coleman and Diabolo. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

For Will Coleman and his CCI4*-S mount Diabolo (owned by the Diabolo Group), the weekend was smooth sailing from start to finish. The pair led after dressage with an impressive score of 26.1, then delivered a clear stadium round yesterday afternoon, adding just 0.8 time faults. Today, they followed it up with an outstanding cross-country performance, finishing with no jumping penalties and 21 seconds of planned time, securing their lead to win the Leibold Irrigation CCI4*-S.

“The time faults were sort of planned—this was his first run back at this level in about a year after a minor injury in 2024, so we’re just ecstatic to have him back,” Will says. “He’s such a quality horse and made it all feel easy today. I had a blast out there, and now we can look ahead to next year—this was the perfect way to finish our season.”

Will’s other CCI4*-S mount, Team Rebecca’s Fahrenheit Addict, climbed from 5th to 2nd after yesterday’s stadium jumping round. However, time penalties on today’s cross-country course pushed the pair back to fifth in the final CCI4*-S standings.

“Fahrenheit Addict was awesome—he’s a younger horse, and this is his first year at the four-star level with us,” Will says. “We really just wanted to give him a nice, confidence-building run to finish the season, and we got that today. He’s improved so much this year, and I’m really excited about his future. It was a great day overall—our whole barn had a fantastic outing, and a couple of my students did really well, too. We’re fortunate to have such a great village behind us.”

Notably, one of Will’s students, Meg Pellegrini, had a busy day with three horses in the 4*-S division. She produced three clear rounds aboard three very different horses, finishing the day highest placed with DonDante, the former 5* ride of Will’s, in 7th on a 46.0.

Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Lucienne Bellissimo and her mount, Dyri, also demonstrated how pivotal a clear cross-country round can be: after sitting third following dressage, the pair slipped to sixth when they picked up 8 jumping faults and 1.6 time penalties in stadium. But with a cross-country round that produced no jumping penalties and finished just one second over the optimum time, they climbed all the way back up to finish 2nd overall in the CCI4*-S.

A New Leader Rockets to the Top of Tanner Group CCI3*-L

Riley Zgrebnak and Cooley Criminal Mind. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

In The Estates at TerraNova & Laughlin Tanner Group CCI3*-L—which held dressage on Thursday and ran cross-country today—a new leader emerged from deep in the standings, having previously been tied for 28th after dressage.

Riley Zgrebnak and Cooley Criminal Mind head into tomorrow’s stadium jumping phase in first place after delivering a double-clear cross-country round on a course that proved challenging for many pairs in the division.

One of the most influential questions of the day was the Fence 6 combination—a downhill jump followed by a ditch just a few strides away. Although several alternative routes were available, including jump options before and after the ditch, the ditch sitting at the bottom of the slope proved challenging for many pairs. This resulted in multiple refusals, eliminations, and retirements.

“I’ve had Cooley Criminal Mind a little over three years now, and we only moved up to intermediate in February,” Riley says. “We’ve had just five runs at the three-star level. My trainer, Kim [Severson], owned him before I bought him—she took him Intermediate and tried a three-star, and it didn’t go super well, so I wasn’t sure we’d compete at this level. But with our partnership, it just seems to work. Our dressage test was one of the best we’ve had all season—that phase isn’t normally his strongest. Today on cross-country, I decided to take the long route before we jumped the ditch, since so many people were having trouble, and it paid off.”

When asked what makes Cooley Criminal Mind so special, Riley describes the horse’s personality as one of his greatest strengths. “He’s the kindest horse ever—very much a people horse,” she says. “He loves pets and scratches, he knows his name, and he’s honestly the sweetest horse I’ve ever met. His barn name is Gideon, but I call him Giddy.”

The Long formats conclude competition with show jumping on Sunday, starting with the CCI3*-L at 10:30 a.m. EST, the CCI4*-L at 12:00 a.m. EST, and the CCI2*-L at 1:30 p.m. EST. You can follow along live using the links below.

The Event at TerraNova (FL): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [Live Stream] [Volunteer]

Waylon Roberts Wins Record Ninth Indoor Eventing Challenge at Toronto’s Royal Horse Show

By on Nov 10, 2025 9:30 am -

Waylon Roberts and Lakeside Park. Photo by Ben Radvanyi Photography.

Waylon Roberts of Port Perry, ON, broke his own record with a remarkable ninth win in the $20,000 Mad Barn Indoor Eventing Challenge on Saturday evening, November 8, at the Royal Horse Show, held as part of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto, ON.

Roberts had only ridden his winning mount, Lakeside Park, for the first time 48 hours prior to Saturday night’s final. Roberts was sitting second after the opening round on Friday, nipping at the heels of leader Holly Jacks of Hillsburgh, ON. He made good use of the up-and-coming talent of Lakeside Park, an eight-year-old Canadian-bred Thoroughbred gelding owned by Penny Rowland, to go penalty free again on Saturday and finish on a combined winning time of 186.29 seconds.

Waylon Roberts of Port Perry, ON, riding Lakeside Park claimed a record ninth win in the $20,000 Mad Barn Indoor Eventing Challenge on Saturday, November 8, at the Royal Horse Show in Toronto, ON.

The Mad Barn Indoor Eventing Challenge is a title Roberts last won—for a record eighth time on that occasion—in 2015. This year, he was hopeful but set few expectations.

“I was only trying to do right by Penny, but what a horse,” he said of the horse regularly ridden by fellow Canadian eventer Jamie Kellock. “Jamie and Jessica [Phoenix] worked together this week to prepare him. I showed up Friday morning, rode him at Jamie’s, then rode him a little here in the afternoon, and we did the class. I was trying to draw on all the good training I’ve had from my great coaches over the years, and that’s all you can try to do.

“Indoor eventing always gets your heart racing,” continued Roberts, a member of Canada’s bronze medal eventing team at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto. “It gets your blood pumping, and this atmosphere is second to none.”

The Coca-Cola Coliseum welcomed record numbers on opening weekend of the Royal Horse Show.

“It’s great to see this place jam-packed, and I think the horses love it,” said Roberts, who has been coming to The Royal with his family since he was a child. “They see all those eyes on them, and they hear people cheer for them. I know it gets the riders going but the horses love it too.”

Holly Jacks and Josephine. Photo by Ben Radvanyi Photography

Holly Jacks of Hillsburgh, ON, rode Josephine to second in the $20,000 Mad Barn Indoor Eventing Challenge on Saturday, November 8, at the Royal Horse Show in Toronto, ON.

The Mad Barn Indoor Eventing Challenge returned to the Royal Horse Show this year to deliver the adrenaline-pumping thrills of cross-country to an indoor setting. Featuring a combination of show jumping and cross-country obstacles, the course designed by world-renowned Captain Mark Phillips of Great Britain challenged horses and riders to be both daring and accurate to the cheers of an enthusiastic crowd in the Coca-Cola Coliseum.

After her opening night win, Jacks held on for a second-place finish. She piloted Ontario-bred Josephine for owner and breeder, Donna Van Beek, to a penalty-free finish just fractions of a second behind Roberts in 186.87 seconds. Three-time Canadian Olympian Jessica Phoenix of Cannington, ON, rounded out the top three with a clear performance and total time of 195.37 seconds on ESI Nixon, also owned by Penny Rowland.

Jessica Phoenix and ESI Nixon. Photo by Ben Radvanyi Photography

The number one eventing rider in the world, Harry Meade (GBR) concluded his Royal Horse Show debut by placing eighth riding borrowed mount BDE Olympic Royale, a nine-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare usually campaigned by 18-year-old Avery Tallman.

“It’s amazing to see the work that goes in behind the scenes at the Royal,” concluded Roberts, who is now based in Aiken, SC, after taking in some of the other sights and sounds of The Royal on Saturday afternoon. “I sat and watched the cow show a little bit this afternoon. You get to see things here that you wouldn’t in your daily life. It’s great!”

$20,000 Mad Barn Indoor Eventing Challenge – Final Standings

Saturday Evening, November 8, 2025

Rider / Hometown / Horse / Penalties / Time

1. Waylon Roberts / Port Perry, ON / Lakeside Park / 0 / 186.29

2. Holly Jacks / Hillsburgh, ON / Josephine / 0 / 186.87

3. Jessica Phoenix / Cannington, ON / ESI Nixon / 0 / 195.37

4. Melissa Boutin / Sherbrooke, QC / Penny GS / 0 / 213.93

5. Selena O’Hanlon / Kingston, ON / Ten Lakes / 5 / 213.43

6. Diana Burnett / Blackstock, ON / Whatsyourproblem / 5 / 219.23

7. Megane Sauve / St. Paul, QC / Nuance / 10 / 190.83

8. Harry Meade / South Gloucestershire, GBR / BDE Olympic Royale / 25 / 213.14

USEA Announces New Freelance Groom Award for 2025

By on Oct 27, 2025 9:00 am -

Supergroom Bill Olson with Emilee Libby and Jakobi. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The United States Eventing Association (USEA) has announced the creation of a brand-new honor for 2025 — the USEA Freelance Groom Award, celebrating the tireless individuals who keep the sport’s equine athletes happy, healthy, and ready to shine.

Behind every polished pony and peak performance stands a hardworking, under-caffeinated groom. Freelance grooms bring their skill and dedication to a wide range of riders and horses throughout the season. This new award recognizes one standout freelance groom who has gone above and beyond in their role, offering their expertise and dedication across multiple programs as they travel from event to event.

Nominations for the 2025 USEA Freelance Groom Award are now open through Monday, Nov. 3. Submissions can be sent directly via email to [email protected] or through the USEA Appreciation Awards Nomination Form here.

The recipient, selected by the USEA Grooms Committee, will receive $3,000 and an engraved memorial trophy in recognition of their contributions to the sport.

The award is made possible through the generosity of the Duda Family, whose support helps shine a well-deserved spotlight on the freelance grooms who form the heartbeat of eventing behind the scenes.

For more information or with questions about the USEA Appreciation Awards or the nomination process, contact Abigail Fulmer at [email protected]. You can learn more about USEA programs and upcoming initiatives at useventing.com.

Updated Course Design Team Named for Adelaide Equestrian Festival CCI3*-L, CCI4*-S and CCI5*

By on Oct 21, 2025 9:00 am -

Adelaide’s beautiful parklands play host to the first CCI5* of the season in April. Photo by Atalya Boytner.

The Adelaide Equestrian Festival is thrilled to announce the appointment of Australia’s two Level 4 FEI Course Designers, Clayton Fredericks and Ewan Kellett, as part of the Festival’s elite course design team for 2026.

After two successful years serving as Assistant Course Designer for the CCI5* class, Clayton Fredericks will now take the reins as Course Designer for the CCI4*-S and Senior Teams Oceania Championship class in 2026.

“It’s a real honour to step into the lead Course Designer role for the CCI4*-S class in 2026,” said Clayton Fredericks. “Designing at Adelaide is a special opportunity —Adelaide is not just Australia’s premier equestrian event, but the leading event in the Southern Hemisphere. I’m excited to create a course that is truly worthy of the occasion for the Oceania Championship senior teams competition”.

In addition, the Festival confirms that Ewan Kellett will join the team as Assistant Course Designer under the continued leadership of Mike Etherington-Smith for the prestigious CCI5* – the only 5-star event in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Adelaide Equestrian Festival is committed to nurturing Australian talent in course design, ensuring a sustainable legacy of homegrown expertise. This commitment extends across all levels of the event, with Mick Pineo continuing in his vital role as Cross Country Lead and Chief Course Builder, as well as Course Designer for the CCI3*-L and Young Rider Oceania Teams Competition.

“It’s been a pleasure working with Clayton and Ewan and seeing them develop into top-level course designers. Adelaide is a unique event, and having them involved brings fresh
perspective while building depth and continuity. I’m looking forward to supporting them in their expanded roles in 2026,” says Mike Etherington-Smith.

As the equestrian community looks ahead to a home Olympic Games, the Adelaide Equestrian Festival continues to strengthen not just its competitive offerings, but also its readiness across officials, volunteers, and event operations. The appointment of both Clayton and Ewan to key course design roles reflects a meaningful step towards long-term Olympic preparation for all involved in the sport.

Tickets for the 2026 Adelaide Equestrian Festival will go on sale in mid-November, with an exciting range of new ticketing packages and premium hospitality offerings to be
announced. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the sport, the 2026 event promises unforgettable action, world-class competition, and the unique thrill of eventing in the heart of Adelaide.

Confirmation of 2026 Course Designers:

CCI5*
Course Designer: Mike Etherington-Smith
Assistant Course Designer: Clayton Fredericks, Ewan Kellet

CCI4*-S (incorporaSng Oceania Championships – Senior Teams)
Course Designer: Clayton Fredericks
Assistant Course Designer: Mike Etherington-Smith

CCI3*-L (incorporaSng Oceania Championships – Young Rider Teams)
Course Designer: Mick Pineo
Assistant Course Designer: Mike Etherington-Smith

Horse Fatality Reported at Florida Horse Park’s Ocala Fall H.T.

By on Oct 6, 2025 1:31 pm -

Erin Farrell and Atavious. Photo by Sally Spickard.

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Ataviuos, owned and ridden by Erin Farrell, following an accident during the Ocala Fall Horse Trials at the Florida Horse Park in Ocala, Florida, on Sunday.

Erin and Ataviuos, a 7-year-old Thoroughbred gelding (Hard Spun x Wild Silk), were competing in the Intermediate division. Erin, a talented young rider, had developed a strong partnership with Ataviuos through the levels, and he was greatly loved by those who knew him.

The horse will undergo a necropsy at the University of Florida Veterinary Hospital for further examination. Erin was uninjured in the incident.

The Florida Horse Park Organizing Committee and the USEA extend their sincere condolences to Erin and everyone connected to Ataviuos. We take all such incidents seriously and will thoroughly review the circumstances to enhance safety measures and reduce risks within equestrian sport.

Goresbridge To Offer Prize Money for 2025 USEA Young Event Horse Championships

By on Oct 4, 2025 9:00 am -

Diego Farje and Schmick show off the after-burners. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

For the first time since the program’s inception, the United States Eventing Association (USEA) is proud to announce that prize money will be awarded at the USEA Young Event Horse (YEH) Championships on both the East and West Coasts this year. This milestone achievement is made possible through a new partnership with Goresbridge, one of the world’s premier sport horse auction houses.

As part of their commitment to supporting the future of eventing, Goresbridge will provide $1,000 in prize money to both the 4-year-old and 5-year-old YEH Champions at each coast’s championship. In addition, each winner will receive a certificate redeemable as a credit toward the purchase of a horse at the prestigious Goresbridge Go For Gold Sale, taking place in November of this year.

The 2025 USEA YEH East Coast Championships will be held Oct. 16–17 at the Maryland 5 Star in Elkton, Maryland, followed by the West Coast Championships on Oct. 24–25 at Twin Rivers Ranch in Paso Robles, California.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering such an important occasion in the world of eventing,” said Ed Donohoe of Goresbridge. “It’s great for us to have this opportunity to promote both Goresbridge and the Go For Gold sale to one of our most important markets. Customers in the USA have been great supporters of the sale, and our presence here allows us to showcase this year’s Go For Gold sale, which offers the best young Irish event horses in the country.”

“We’re incredibly grateful and excited to welcome Goresbridge as our first prize money sponsor for the YEH Championships—a milestone that reflects growing support for the future of the sport and the talent of young horses,” said Molly Pellegrini, YEH Committee Chair. “This partnership not only rewards excellence but also inspires the next generation of champions.”

The USEA Young Event Horse Championships are designed to identify and encourage the development of exceptional young event horses at the 4- and 5-year-old age group, showcasing their talent and potential for the upper levels of the sport. The addition of prize money and incentives from Goresbridge marks an exciting new chapter in the program’s continued growth and impact.

Equestrian Canada’s Eventing High Performance Advisory Group Announces Country Yucca Eventing Travel Grants for U25 athletes

By on Oct 3, 2025 9:00 am -

Saffron Klotz and Ballingowan Clarity. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Equestrian Canada’s Eventing High Performance Advisory Group is pleased to announce the Country Yucca Eventing Travel Grants for U25 athletes, designed to assist young Canadian eventing riders in furthering their competition experience either across North America or overseas.

These grants have been established and named in honour of Country Yucca, a pony with a huge heart and personality ridden by Nick Holmes-Smith, who later represented the Canadian Eventing Team at the Seoul 1988 and Barcelona 1992 Olympics.

“In the 1970’s to early 1990’s as an eventing competitor I struggled to afford the costs of traveling and competing. I am now very happy to be able to help today’s riders with their financial challenges,” says Holmes-Smith.

Emily Gilbert, chair of the Eventing High Performance Committee remarked: “We are deeply grateful to Nick Holmes-Smith for his generous support of the Eventing HPAG’s vision and strategy. His commitment helps us expand programming and opportunities for U25 athletes and exemplifies the spirit of giving back to the sport of Eventing.”

Awarded once per calendar year, grants will be distributed to up to four recipients at the discretion of the selection committee. $20,000 CAD total will be awarded once per year with grants of $5,000 for travel within North America or $10,000 for overseas travel.

The grant must be used toward:

  • Travel expenses (flights, fuel, horse transport)
  • Entry fees and stabling
  • Accommodation during the event
  • Veterinary and health certificates for travel
  • Other approved competition-related costs

Eligibility: To be considered for the grant, applicants must:

  • Be aged 16–25 as of January 1 of the competition year
  • Be actively competing at the Training level or above
  • Be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada
  • Demonstrate financial need and clear competitive goals
  • Have a plan to compete outside of their home region, either across North America or internationally
  • Be in good standing with Equestrian Canada

The selection committee will take into account the competition performance record of the athlete/horse combination, giving specific consideration to Athlete/horse combinations who have achieved a Target Performance Result as outlined in the full criteria. Preference will be given to Athlete/Horse combinations having completed a CCI2*-L or higher.

For the 2026 competition season the application timeline is as follows:

  • Applications Open: October 1, 2025
  • Deadline to Apply: November 1, 2025
  • Recipients Notified: December 1, 2025

How to Apply

Applicants must submit the following information to the Eventing HPAG at [email protected]

1. A personal statement (max. 750 words) including:

  • Your competition goals
    Why this grant is important to your development
    How you plan to use the funds

2. An outline of travel plans

3. A detailed budget breakdown of estimated travel expenses

4. One reference letter from a coach, mentor, or federation official

5. A competition resume from the last 2 years

The Inspiration: Country Yucca represents the resilience of a true cross-country athlete. Yucca loved cross country and was well-known with his signature bald face and four white socks – he was hard to miss. At first, some might have thought Yucca was too small to jump the more advanced fences, but he quickly proved otherwise. Nick and Yucca were kindred spirits, small and carefree, enjoying galloping over the countryside in the southern Okanagan, British Columbia and all-over North America. Nick has influenced many Canadian eventers over the years, including several riders who have gone on to wear the maple leaf. Bruce Mandeville, Rebecca Howard and Michael Winter have all been fortunate to have worked with Nick on their road to representing Team Canada