Sally Spickard
Articles Written 4,441
Article Views 11,032,794

Sally Spickard

Achievements

Become an Eventing Nation Blogger

About Sally Spickard

Sally Spickard is a Korean adoptee living in San Diego, California. Sally joined the Eventing Nation team in 2013 and has subsequently written for Noelle Floyd, Heels Down Mag, and other publications both in and out of the equestrian world. Sally is an eventing fan through and through and enjoys telling the stories of riders who are not well-represented within equestrian media.

Latest Articles Written

Take a Virtual Walk Around the Rebecca Farm Training Three-Day Cross Country with Bec Braitling

Photo courtesy of CrossCountry App.

CrossCountry App has been hard at work bringing you preview content of courses all over the world, and if you’re riding this week at Rebecca Farm or are aiming at a USEA Classic Long Format in the future, this guided preview of the Training Three-Day track with Australian 5* rider and USEA ECP coach Bec Braitling will provide you with some valuable insights.

Did you know that CrossCountry App is free to use? You can also upgrade to a Pro membership to gain access to even more tools, such as self-recording of your course walks complete with minute markers, adding notes to fences for things to remember, downloading maps for use when signal is poor and much more. Learn more about the Pro membership here.

Click here or use the embedded map below to go on a fence-by-fence walk with Bec around this beautiful Training Three-Day course, and good luck to all competitors this weekend!

The Event at Rebecca Farm (MT): [Website] [Halt Cancer at X] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Official Photographer] [Live Stream] [Volunteer]

CHIO Aachen: A First-Timer’s Observations

I admittedly didn’t have the full-blown Wellington experience the first time I visited the south Florida equestrian hub. I’d grown up reading about WEF, “Welly World” as many call it. Scrolling the beautiful photos, palm trees featuring prominently in every background.

But the first time I visited, I distinctly remember leaving feeling…underwhelmed. I’d visited to gather some b-roll for a film shoot, and granted, it was a slow day on site. There were fewer classes actively competing, less buzz. What stayed on me, though (and I’m very sorry to my Wellington-ite friends who are probably raising their hackles as they read on), was the feeling I left with. Like I had been sprayed with a mixture of suncreen and shame, unable to rinse off the feeling that I was simply not good enough. Not rich enough. Not pretty or skinny enough.

I’ve always loved eventing for many reasons, but chief among them is the sense I have of its blue-collar tendencies. Of course, to be involved in equestrian sports – especially at a recreational level – requires some form of disposable income. But I love eventing for its heart. The roll up your sleeves, push the bill collectors off another couple weeks, stretch the tall boots to their thinnest, grin and bear it.

Disclaimer: I do not believe this is a healthy lifestyle. I could write more pages on the lack of balance I know exists in our industry. But since when is everything you love completely healthy? I also love macaroni and cheese. And the occasional cigarette.

The view from inside the main Aachen stadium.

I harbored some worry that I would leave CHIO Aachen with the same sticky feeling on my skin. Here I was, attending arguably the best horse show in the world, which plays host to some 350,000 spectators every year and unifies most FEI disciplines together over a ten-day festival. There should be the show jumpers with their ritz and glamour, the dressage riders with their six-or-seven-figure horses.

Your first impression of walking through the ticket gates at Aachen is the sheer size of the place. Everywhere you turn, a stadium or yawning arena looms in the background, with retail tents stretching down enticing rows, displaying their wares. In short, it feels much like any other sporting event, but when you consider the scale of most equestrian competitions outside of racing, in the U.S. at least, it gives you that heightened buzz often accompanying a larger event like a football game (American or otherwise, take your pick).

If I were choosing an event to spectate at, Aachen would be at the top of my list. Yes, the crowds are teeming, but generally it’s a good crowd — you’ve got your retiscent slow-walkers and the stop-in-the-middle-of-the-walkway types, but it’s a respectful crowd who just wants to collectively join in the experience of spending loads of money on saddle pads and, if you’re into it, lingerie. The main stadium itself holds about 40,000 people, so there’s plenty of room for large crowds, and trust me: you’ll need at least a week to make it through the 200+ tradestands on the grounds.

You always have the chance to get up close and personal with the athletes and horses, with Aachen laying out bridle paths throughout that stream their way to the various collecting rings, lunging areas and the stables.

Through all of this, I was left with the distinct feeling that I did, in fact, feel like I belonged there. Sure, everywhere I turned there were Hot People™ dressed in clothes that I would need an entire quarter’s worth of pay to afford, not unlike Wellington…but it just felt different. It felt more accessible, and like all of the walks of life mixed together into one sweaty, currywurst-smelling fervor about horses.

I felt less sticky when I left. Despite the sweat, and the faint film left behind by overconsumption of currywurst (ok, that is my only other bit of feedback: could we perhaps have SLIGHTLY less sausage options in terms of cuisine?).

Like a Mini-Olympics

Aachen’s “wall of fame” – which features some quite funny photo choices if you keep looking.

Casting an eye down the start lists for each class, be it jumping, dressage or eventing (also on the docket are combined driving and vaulting, which I regrettably didn’t have the chance to take in for myself) is like reading through an Olympic roster. It’s no secret the best in the world frequent CHIO Aachen, and particularly this year, just over 12 months from the upcoming FEI World Championships for all of these disciplines, it seemed each country was keen to gain some key intel on the venue and the environment to use in their preparation.

Personally, I’d love to see something like this festival come to the U.S. While I understand we don’t always have the numbers that our UK and European counterparts do, I think we are also underselling ourselves in terms of spectator draw. Let’s look at Kentucky, for example, which attracts a few hundred thousand spectators throughout the spring, between the Keeneland spring meet, the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event and the Kentucky Derby. There IS horse culture in America, and maybe pulling the threads of these often heavily segmented satellite sports would result in a similar-feeling celebration of the horse. The Kentucky Horse Park has the infrastructure to support multiple disciplines (as demonstrated by the 2010 FEI World Equestrian Games, as well as the simultatneous 5* show jumping and eventing that take place during Kentucky Three-Day week). Creating even a bi-annual festival (the Europeans have their European Championships every two years — and yes, we have the Pan American Games every four years as well — this could be come North, Central and South America’s version of this, in some ways). That’s a guaranteed bi-annual multi-million dollar economic impact, epsecially if this festival coincided with other major events like the Kentucky Three-Day or the Kentucky Derby.

(If anyone institutes this, I’d love a credit and corresponding compensation; even better, let me know if you’d like to back this idea.)

I sadly only visited the Lindt candy bar ONE TIME, which offends even me.

There are also a lot of takeaways gleaned from my experience as a member of the media. Athletes (and owners, grooms — people with credentials, basically) and media had access to a special area of the grounds that featured a VIP Area, an open bar, a Lindt candy bar and catered lunch every day. We were situated just behind the main stadium and its collecting/warm-up ring, and we had a dedicated media center with decent WiFI available to us as late as we needed it every day.

Listen: everyone working a horse show works hard, long hours. As media, our days are typically in the 15-18 hour range (made all the more exhausting by the fact that while the riders and owners are tucking into their open bar beverages upon competition completion at the end of the day, we’re really just beginning our work day), and there is nothing worse than having to battle the food lines in the spectator area, fight your way into some sort of workspace, pull your hair out from slow internet, and meanwhile be all at once dehydrating and starving yoursel for lack of provisions. We’re tasked with telling the stories of the week — having proper infrastructure with which to do this makes a massive difference, and makes the long days feel less all-out draining.

The entrance to the building that houses the media center.

A very swanky open bar for riders and media that, again, I only visited once.

It wasn’t all perfect — I was a bit stuck chasing riders down toward the barns like an annoying little duckling if I wanted quotes after dressage (luckily event riders by nature are VERY NICE and I love them for it) because there was no dedicated mixed zone, and on more than one occasion it was difficult to find seats in the press tribune seating, clearly marked for press and media only but inexplicably always occupied by riders and owners (who had their own dedicated section) with no enforcement of who could sit where happening — but it was pretty damn close.

A Reminder of Just How Global Equestrian Sports Are

No better view in the world!

It’s very easy to get sort of stuck in your chamber, feeling like the silly “horse stuff” you do doesn’t really matter in the grand scheme of things.

And let’s be clear before I go too much further: in the context of the world at large, where unspeakable atrocities are occurring with every word I type, where people suffer from unimaginable inequality and abuse — the context of a miffed dressage test or a run-out on cross country falls into stark contrast. Yes, we work in a very privileged environment. It’s our livelihood, but damn — what a livelihood it is. We are lucky. We cannot forget this, and we cannot forget that all-important context against the broad spectrum of troubles that plague our word.

But sometimes, at least for me, it can feel like what I do is too silly to legitimize. I struggle to name or even describe what I do for work in the company of my higher-educated, corporate job-working friends.

Is there a better office view??

My trip to Aachen reminded me: we work in a global sport that reaches millions of people each year. It’s so well-recognized in some areas that people come from far and wide to take it in — and even the non-horsey among them leave feeling bitten by a bug or one sort or another. It was a good, validating reminder for me — and yes, I’m the type that needs that sort of validation, just every once in awhile, when my own self-confidence is flagging a bit.

As we look ahead to Aachen’s World Championships in 2026, it’s valuable for us all to remember: Our sports matter, they have an impact. We should protect them, nourish their growth, and always ensure the horses are the top of every decision made. I witnessed that at Aachen this year, and it gives me hope for the future.

Dressage Icon Carl Hester to Host Exclusive Masterclass at Galway Downs

Mark your calendars for an unmissable weekend of elite dressage education as British Olympic gold medalist Carl Hester brings his celebrated Harvest Dressage Masterclass to Galway Downs on November 8–9, 2025, presented by Entrigue Marketing.

Renowned across the globe for his impact on the sport, Carl is not only one of the most decorated British dressage riders of all time—having competed at seven Olympic Games and earned team gold at London 2012—but also a dedicated trainer and mentor to the next generation of riders. His deep commitment to horsemanship, technique, and development from young horses through Grand Prix levels has made him a household name in international equestrian sport.

Over two days in Southern California wine country, Carl will guide riders and spectators through his trademark training insights, offering a rare look into the system that has produced Olympic and World Championship podium finishes.

Interested in Riding with Carl?

Applications are now open for a select group of horse-and-rider pairs to participate in the masterclass sessions. The program, carefully developed in collaboration with Carl, is designed to showcase a wide range of training levels—from young horse development to Grand Prix refinement. Riders looking to benefit from direct feedback and one-on-one instruction from one of dressage’s greatest minds should submit an application no later than September 1, 2025.

Ticket Options

General Admission: Two-day general admission tickets include covered spectator seating, access to Galway’s vibrant vendor village, and a photo and autograph opportunity with Carl. Single-day tickets are also available.

VIP Experience: Enjoy the event in luxury with VIP balcony tables (seating for eight) or individual VIP tickets. VIP perks include:

  • Daily breakfast and lunch
  • Unlimited snacks and beverages
  • Two VIP parking passes (for table reservations)
  • Exclusive VIP Meet & Greet with Carl, including private table photos and autograph/book signing

Click here to book your tickets.

Whether you’re an aspiring dressage rider, a trainer, or simply an enthusiast who loves to learn, this is your chance to witness and learn from one of the sport’s most influential figures.

For applications and ticketing details, click here.

Apply Now for a Jimmy Wofford Legacy Fund Scholarship Supporting Classic Three-Day Event Riders

Photo by Vernon Bewley.

The Waredaca Eventing Education Foundation (WEEF) has officially opened the next round of applications for the Jimmy Wofford Legacy Fund Scholarship, offering aspiring eventers across the country critical financial support to pursue their Classic Three-Day goals.

Named in honor of the late Jimmy Wofford—an Olympic medalist and beloved mentor in the sport—the scholarship celebrates his passion for education, horsemanship, and the classic format of eventing. Through the generosity of WEEF donors and Classic Three-Day organizers nationwide, each scholarship includes a free entry to a Classic Three-Day Event and $1,000 to help offset training, travel, or related expenses.

With several events already completed this year and four more still to come, WEEF encourages riders to submit their applications by August 1.

Recipients of this year’s scholarships have already shared the meaningful impact of the award:

“This scholarship will help me continue to chase my dreams—not just as an eventer, but as someone who wants to advocate for the health and welfare of sport horses at the highest levels,” said Nicole Carlone, who will compete at Rebecca Farm’s Classic Three-Day this week.

“This opportunity not only supports my passion for eventing but will allow me to continue to broaden my knowledge as a rider and horsewoman,” shared Arianah Romero, a recipient riding at Summer Coconino in Arizona.

Zara Bewley, a competitor at Indiana Eventing Association’s (IEA) Classic Three-Day, added, “I am truly honored and deeply grateful… This scholarship will help with extra lessons and cross-country schooling as we work toward IEA.”

  • Eligibility requirements include:
  • Must be a current USEA/USEF Adult Amateur or Junior/Young Rider member
  • Planning to compete in a 2025 Classic Three-Day at the Beginner Novice level or higher
  • Demonstrated financial need
  • Must not be participating in other USEA/USEF grant programs
  • Must show volunteer commitment to the sport
  • One letter of reference is required

For full eligibility details and to apply, visit the WEEF website here.

Don’t miss your chance to carry the torch of tradition—apply by August 1 and ride for the legacy.

Germany Names Long List for 2025 FEI Eventing European Championships

Julia Krajewski and Nickel. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Following qualification events at Luhmühlen and CHIO Aachen, Germany has named its long list of riders from which it will eventually select its team and individual representatives for the FEI Eventing European Championships. This year’s Europeans will be held at Blenheim Palace, September 18-25.

The long list is as follows; the final team will be named after the CCIO4*-S event at Arville running August 15-18.

  • Nicolai Aldinger with Timmo (Owners: Cornelia & Dieter Aldinger and Jutta & Michael Spethmann; Breeder: Ole Lehmann)
  • Arne Bergendahl with Luthien (owner: Helmut Bergendahl; breeder: Heinrich Bergendahl)
  • Calvin Böckmann with Altair de la Cense (owners: Simone, Jason and Liam Böckmann; breeders: Diego & Filipa Horta E Costa) and The Phantom of the Opera (owners: Simone, Roger, Jason, Liam & Calvin Böckmann; breeder: Peter Fick)
  • Emma Brüssau with Dark Desire GS (Owner: Dr. Jürgen Andreas Brüssau; Breeder: Bernd Gehrdau-Schröder)
  • Malin Hansen-Hotopp with Carlitos Quidditch K (Owner: Dr. Bodil Ipsen; Breeder: Miriam Kühl)
  • Heike Jahncke with Mighty Spring (Owners: Carsten Küst and Heike Jahncke; Breeder: Jörg Bätje)
  • Michael Jung with fischerChipmunk FRH (Owners: Sabine & Klaus Fischer, Joachim Jung and the DOKR; Breeder: Sabine and Dr. Hilmer Meyer-Kulenkampff)
  • Pauline Knorr with Aevolet MAF (owner: Ute Thümler; breeder: Marco Fischer)
  • Julia Krajewski with Nickel (Owner: Prof. Dr. Bernd Heicke; Breeder: Hindrick Stüvel)
  • Libussa Lübbeke with Caramia (Owner: Annelie and Dr. Martin Lübbeke; Breeder: Annelie Lübbeke)
  • Jérôme Robine with Black Ice (Owner: Dorothea von Zedtwitz; Breeder: Judith McClelland)
  • Anna Siemer with FRH Butt’s Avondale (owner and breeder: Prof. Dr. Volker Steinkraus)
  • Christoph Wahler with D’Accord FRH (Owner: Hendrik von Paepke & Stefan Haupt; Breeder: Christa von Paepke)

Karin Donckers Calls Time on Legendary Career of Fletcha van’t Verahof

One last time. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“How do you know when to retire a horse?” Kentucky 5* winner Tamie Smith mused in a text conversation recently, speaking of her horse of a lifetime partner, Mai Baum (who, speaking of, will retire after one last fun run at Rebecca Farm later this month). The truth is, I don’t think there’s a tangible answer to this — not when the horse is sound, enjoying his or her job, still producing competitive results.

It’s a question any rider would love to be lucky enough to consider. The responsibility of producing and maintaining a horse at the top levels of sport is a large one. It requires empathy. Patience. Dedication. Trust. Awareness. Respect. And that same responsibility comes again when it’s time to bid farewell to a legacy career.

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Last summer, Belgium’s Karin Donckers left Fletcha van’t Verahof — 20 years young this year — at home for the Paris Olympics, having been selected on his full brother, Leipheimer Van’t Verahof for her seventh Games. Fletcha, for his part, expressed his displeasure at being left home. “We left at 12:30 in the night with Leiphaimer,” she recalled. “I went to the stall of Fletcha and I looked in his eyes. He was really watching me, like, ‘come on, you’re gonna take me too!’ I know, I know, I thought. I still think so much about that moment.”

In her mind, Karin knew Fletcha’s tenure at the top of the sport would be drawing to a close soon. Every horsewoman or horseman wants to make that call at the right time — before the horse sustains an injury or begins to sour on the job. And Fletcha, who was bred in Belgium by Peter van Dame-de Smedt, had carried his age well.

Through her own dedication to her program of care and fitness, his body has stayed sound and his mind happy. When you think about the fact that championships run on four-year cycles (or for Europeans, every two years), for the horse to have done as much as he has is, well, astounding.

Karin Donckers’ Fletcha Van’t Verahof (BEL). Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“It’s a matter to keep him happy,” Karin said. “It’s a bit like me, I guess, because I’m 54 and that’s a bit the same for me. I love the passion for the horse, I love the passion for the sport, and that’s why I like to keep doing it. And that keeps me motivated, that keeps me fit. You know, when I came with the lorry [to come to Aachen], and I opened the lorry, he was like, ‘Oh yeah, wow!’ His eyes were popping out. And he was really like, ‘Yes, I did it again, over here again!’ So, you know, I’m sure that that’s the same for the horse.”

At home, Fletcha lives out, or in a big stall with its own attached outside paddock. Karin insists that once she felt she had the right approach to keeping him sound and happy, it was important not to make too many changes. Stick with what works, she says. “You just have to let him be a horse. You have to listen to them,” she continued. “I know him so well, and that’s what gives confidence. I guess that’s like in a good relationship with people too. You know what you have from each other. You know that you can count on each other. You don’t need much; you grow this path together in the last 13 years. That’s a special bond you have, and so much respect you have for each other. That makes it special.”

Karin Donckers and Fletcha van’t Verahof (BEL). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

“I think I have to follow what he what I always said, and what he deserves, you know?” Karin told me after she finished cross country, clear with time, at Aachen on Saturday. “You want to finish on a good way. And Aachen is something really, really special for the horses, and I think he deserves to finish here.”

To be sure, it wasn’t always a definite path for Fletcha (who is owned by Karin along with Carl Bouckaert and Joris de Brabander), who wasn’t the easiest to produce. “This horse was definitely not the easiest one in the beginning — way too bold and taking strides out and when really way too ambitious,” Karin explained. “It took me almost until he was 11 or 12 before he became easy to ride.”

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

And so, after another successful Aachen (his fifth time competing here, and the first time he’d been back since 2017), the curtain closes on the career of a horse of a lifetime. An Olympics, two World Equestrian Games, four European Championships, 48 FEI completions. What emerges as Karin’s favorite moment?

“I think the WEG when he was nine years old,” she said after a moment of thought. “He finished the WEG in fifth place. So that was incredible. And then knowing that he did three World Championships, I think that’s also something that not many horses did in eventing, because the World Championship is only every four years. So that’s amazing. On his nine, on his 13, and on his 17.”

Karen Donckers and Fletcha Van’t Verahof. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Every horse leaves you with lessons, if you’re willing to listen. Karin’s taking what she’s been taught by Fletcha and taking it forward to produce the next generation. “Give your horse a chance and make sure that you give them good education. Also, when it’s not so easy in the beginning, don’t give up on them. Give them a chance. Because often, the very, very good horses are not the easiest ones in the beginning, you know? That’s definitely what I learned.”

Here, she used a Dutch term — pluk de vruchten — that doesn’t really have a direct English translation here — but after consulting with fellow Belgian Lara de Liedekerke-Meier, the meaning became clear: after exercising patience and nourishing something along, you can — if the cards fall your way — reap the benefit and reward.

Tears popping to her eyes, Karin pauses for a moment as we wrapped up our interview. “I’m so happy that I had done 6, 7, 8 years, where it was every time a dream to ride him in cross country, you know? And I’m so grateful. Thanks to my owners and sponsors, we had such a life together. I’m just so thankful that I got this journey with him.”

To see more coverage from CHIO Aachen, click here.

An Eye to the Future: Previewing Giuseppe Della Chiesa’s CHIO Aachen Cross Country

We came to CHIO Aachen this year with high anticipation. After all, this site will, for the first time in 20 years, see the return of *most* disciplines in a reunited World Championships next year that will harken back to the World Equestrian Games of 2006. With that in mind, it falls to newly-installed course designer Giuseppe Della Chiesa (ITA) — also the designer for our most recent World Championships held at Pratoni del Vivaro in 2022 — to put together a track that allows him to fact-find for 2026.

As a result, we’ve got quite a different look and feel to the track, which was designed by Germany’s Rüdiger Schwarz previously before he retired. Giuseppe and his team have taken on the workload to open up new areas of the property — which isn’t boundless to begin with. It’s a completely different piece of land in comparison to the expansive terrain in Pratoni, but Giuseppe sees a future for this course, and that’s what he’s designing for.

“This was the main thing — what can we do to produce the course for next year?” Giuseppe told me. “So we came with the idea to produce something for next year, but especially to produce a venue for the next 20 years. This was the thinking. I spoke with the organizer. [I asked] ‘What is your intention for the next 20 years — to go on with eventing or not?’ Yes? Okay, then we try to produce a venue that can give for the future a lot more possibilities of changing course, of getting, you know, an instance.”

British rider Tom McEwen describes Aachen as “an unofficial five-star Short.”

“[Giuseppe] has designed an awesome course,” he said. “It lets you flow into it, and then all of a sudden, the intensity really hits you. We all know that the time is the biggest problem and I’ve seen many the top rider on the top horse just have the odd thing because of speed, which makes it an exciting show.”

And so we look ahead to this new design, which has received largely favorable reviews from the riders coming in from their walks. Most prominent in terms of flow, the first six or so fences are set on a yawning loop that will allow the riders to get their horses up into the bridle before the intensive, twisting parts of the track come in to play.

[The first combination comes at 4AB, and while it shouldn’t cause much trouble, riders will want to be aware of their right aids to keep their horses on the line and ensure they’ve got the tools they need as the course progresses.]

">


After a handful of single fences on a gentle uphill slope to get the horses up in the air, riders will tackle the first combination at 4AB, a set of brush arrowheads positioned on a related, left-handed distance down a double mound. This question shouldn’t really cause much trouble, but will be good information for riders to use as they move on — Giuseppe says he’s set this on a somewhat progressive tone, with similar-feeling questions at increasing technicality coming later on.

[The BC and D elements of the straight route here involve a rollercoaster of a terrain change in between.]


The first big question comes at fence 7ABCD. This is a famous heartbreaker type of fence, where many great riders have come to grief, what with the distraction of the combined driving obstacles and the undulating terrain that compels riders to have a horse that can maintain a line.

After getting up over a big table at 7A, the riders will tackle two arrowheads, set again on a left-handed related distance but with the additional challenge of a steep, rollercoaster-esque dip in the terrain. There is an option here that will send riders off to the right should they not wish to answer this question right away or have trouble at the BC element.

From there, the hits just keep coming. The time is wheeled tightly at 6:35 — shorter than the course’s recent counterparts — and riders will need to ensure they keep the RPMs up while maintaining the necessary control to execute the turning and technicality exercises well. The next challenge comes at 9ABC, where the horses will get their feet wet for the first time.

This is another newer, or at least significantly modified, addition to the track; you’ll recall there was once a bridge over this Rolex water that frankly was barely used as more than decoration, but that has been removed this year. For Giuseppe, the removal of the bridge (which was done because it needed redoing and the organizers opted to just remove it) actually gives him more options.

“So we don’t have a bridge anymore, and now the water is much more accessible,” he explained. “And now we actually can go twice in water, no problem. I made this new exit [and] entrance with the brush down the hill, and now for the future we have many different options.”

The brush down the hill comes after a mound to 9A, a brush vertical that feeds the horses down into the water and over a right-handed corner and then a duck in the water off a left-handed turn at C.

[This is another series of fences that look somewhat deceiving in photos, as it’s hard to capture the steep dip in terrain that occurs between 10 and 11.]

We’ll then have another rollercoaster, line-testing question at 10 and 11 that will test footwork and rideability over two inviting logs. They’ll then come back into the Rolex water at 12, jumping a hanging log with a nice, guiding ground line to feed them in, followed by another duck in the water, and a right-handed corner off a short related distance.

Need to take a breath? Think again! You’ve now only got a few seconds to prepare for the coffin — a very “classical coffin”, as Giuseppe puts it, at 13ABC that features a steep downhill after a MIM-pinned airy rail. A very narrow arrowhead awaits at C, and Bettina Hoy noted on our walk that the steepness of the hill and the ditch could throw an odd wiggle into some horses, which will of course make the C that much more difficult to attain.

The next combination — and one that could exert its fair share of influence — comes at 16 ABC. The A element of this, a brush vertical, comes at the top of another mound, this time off a relatively short left-handed turn. Riders will need to find their line immediately after the A, as they’ll get pulled downhill to a pair of offset hedges set at a standard two-stride distance.

The view through 16A to the offset brushes below.

“That’s a real five-star angle for me,” Irish rider Padraig McCarthy told me. “There’s no deviation of your line, and if your horse isn’t reading it, you’re going to have a mistake. I think we might see people going long, especially if it’s influential at the start of the competition.”

You’re almost home at 18, which is perennially an influential question as it’s the final one before riders enter into the stadium to finish. By now, most are chasing the time, and can get caught out with a silly mistake here. This year, the combination has been backed off of its previous location closer to the road, and it’s a pair of left-handed open corners set on three strides. It’s a fairly straightforward question, but again, the complexity factor should be added in when accounting for the desire to catch the time.

Fence 21 features a MIM-pinned gate into the water.

After this, riders will gallop into the festive, raucous main stadium, where a handful of fences and an eager crowd of spectators await them. Giuseppe’s done a steeplechase brush, a MIM oxer, a MIM gate into the water and a step out, as well as the traditional keyhole to finish on. While these are generally more of speed bump questions, we’ve seen more than a few riders get caught up in a flat jump trying to get home, so he’s done his due diligence here to try to slow them down as much as possible.

“This course here, the only place where you can really make time is the beginning,” Giuseppe said. “The risk is that, if you go out really as a bullet… you risk to come to [4AB] with a horse that is all very free, and then here you could run into trouble. If we have nobody in the time, I’m not worried. But then the time becomes the deciding factor. And so… you still put some pressure on them, and some little mistakes come and that becomes more exciting.”

Giuseppe’s design philosophy comes down to challenging the riders. To him, the general 4* horse can jump any question. It’s a matter of placing questions in a way that makes the riders think and make good decisions. This is his way of laying out a challenge that tests the best without crushing the rest; a philosophy he’ll be tested even further on next year at World Championships.

“You can design for the horses or for the riders,” he elaborated. “I will say, I like to design for the riders. If a rider rides well, he has a horse that is well prepared. [The horse] doesn’t need to be a star; the normal horse must be able to do things. Then the good ones are the ones that can do it more economically and be a bit quicker. Sometimes it’s more… you’re testing their brain. The adaptability of the horse that is under control. Sometimes you have horses that are very powerful, but no real control.”

“It definitely needs good riding,” echoed Belgian Olympic legend Karin Donckers, who’s brought the 20-years-young Fletcha van’t Verahof here and who also competed at WEG in 2006. “You have to be on the right line, the right angle, everything has to be right. You’re not going to finish the course by luck. And that’s what I think the future for the sport is, and what we like — it’s the schooling of the horses, the good education, the trust, the good building up to this highest level. And I think if you did all that well, then you have the benefit [here she used a Dutch phrase that she didn’t know the English version of, so consider this your eventing ad libs for the day] — you have the big result in competitions like this.”

And so we anxiously await the official christening of this new track, which for all intents and purposes feels very much like a sneak preview of World Championships next year. Giuseppe’s already built some other features that aren’t being used this weekend but will factor in next year, and of course there will be more ground to use to lengthen the track to 9 or 10 minutes for Worlds.

We’ll get a first taste of the track starting at 9:55 am local time / 3:55 am EST on Saturday, so be sure to tune in live on ClipMyHorse.TV and/or via Cheg Darlington’s live blog here on EN.

Want a better look at the course? See the post below to see our walkthrough:

Safe rides to all, and Go Eventing!

CHIO Aachen: [Website] [Program/Entries] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s Ultimate Guide to CHIO Aachen CCIO4*-S

Team USA waits for their turn in the prizegiving ceremony. Photo by Tilly Berendt. Team USA waits for their turn in the prizegiving ceremony. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We are just a couple of days away from kicking off eventing at CHIO Aachen, a prestigious 10-day festival that takes place in west Germany, just over the Dutch border. Eventing is just one of several disciplines represented throughout this spectator-heavy event (Aachen attracts something like 350,000 spectators each year), and we’ll see things get underway on Thursday with the horse inspection, followed by two days of competition. Dressage and show jumping will take place on Friday, with the eventers getting a chance to jump under the lights in the main stadium, followed by cross country as the final phase on Saturday.

The Players

CHIO Aachen always attracts a star-studded list of entries, and this year is no different. The U.S. has sent an A-team of Olympians and 2021 Aachen individual winners Will Coleman and Off the Record, but they’ll nonetheless have a run for their money with heavy-hitter nations like Great Britain and New Zealand also sending strong contingents. You can also view Tilly’s full entry preview here and the entry list here.

How to Watch

ClipMyHorse.TV has the live feed for the entirety of CHIO Aachen, and while you do need a subscription to watch, you’ll also have access to the full line-up of live streams and original content. The live feeds can also be viewed on-demand if you don’t feel like waking up at an odd hour to watch. Click here to view the live stream.

Social Media Channels and Hashtags

To keep up with CHIO Aachen’s coverage, you can follow their Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X and YouTube pages.

You can also follow along on EN’s Instagram, where we’ll be posting daily recap galleries, a venue tour and more.

For hashtags, your best bet is #CHIOAachen to find all of the latest on socials.

EN’s Coverage

Keep this page bookmarked and refreshed to see our coverage articles throughout the week.

Saturday, July 5

The Clock’s The Key: Dispatches from Cross-Country Day at Aachen

Follow Along with the Action from Aachen: Live Blog from the Cross Country at CHIO Aachen

Friday, July 4

It’s the Plot Twist Olympics: Tim Price and Vitali Lead After Tough Aachen Showjumping

An Eye to the Future: Previewing Giuseppe Della Chiesa’s CHIO Aachen Cross Country

Best for Last: Jérôme Robiné Takes Individual CHIO Aachen Lead; Kiwis Take Charge of Team Competition

Thursday July 3

One Horse Withdrawn at Aachen First Inspection

Inside the Dress Rehearsal: Preview CHIO Aachen’s Stacked Entry List

CHIO Aachen: [Website] [Program/Entries] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Tickets are On Sale for FEI World Championships at Aachen in 2026

Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Don’t wait around — tickets are now on sale and going fast for the FEI World Championships at Aachen in Germany, taking place August 11-23, 2026.

This event signifies a reunification of sorts across FEI disciplines, with eventing, jumping, dressage, para dressage, vaulting and driving all taking place throughout the competition.

You can view the full breakdown of schedule and ticket pricing here. For eventing fans, there is a choice between single phase tickets as well as a “season pass” option that provides reserved seating for dressage and show jumping as well as admission to cross country day.

Keep up with the latest from Aachen 2026 here and stay tuned for more as we hurtle toward our next world championship. Tickets can be sourced here.

US Equestrian Expands Equine Welfare Conversation with New Town Hall Series

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Following the success of its first Equine Safety and Welfare Town Hall earlier this month, US Equestrian has announced a new series of town hall events set for summer and fall 2025. The initiative aims to foster open dialogue between the Federation and participants across all breeds and disciplines, as the organization seeks to improve the well-being of equine athletes through collaborative conversation and thoughtful action.

The first town hall took place June 11 at the Split Rock Hunter Jumper Classic II at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky, and featured USEF staff engaging with attendees on the evolving standards and expectations around equine welfare. Click here to learn more about the first town hall. There is one meeting on the schedule taking place at an eventing competition, at Stable View’s Oktoberfest on September 27. There will also be meetings held during the winter season in Florida and California, with exact timing to be announced later.

Each upcoming event will be open to the public and will include panels of USEF staff and affiliate organization representatives, when possible. Exact dates, times, and locations within each host venue will be shared as they are finalized by USEF and show management. The full schedule, which is subject to updates, will be available on the USEF website here.

In addition to the in-person events, an online town hall will take place before the end of the year to ensure broader access for those unable to attend on site. US Equestrian also welcomes written feedback about equine welfare and ideas for improving the sport—emails can be sent directly to [email protected].

Ask ChatGPT

Creating Healthier Barns from the Inside Out: Join the USEA Eventing Grooms Program for “Barn Harmony” Panel

The USEA Eventing Grooms Program is back with another impactful and important conversation—this time tackling the link between barn management and mental health. Titled Barn Harmony: Where Management Meets Mental Wellness, the live panel invites horse lovers of all stripes to take a closer look at the emotional and logistical realities of life behind the scenes.

Featuring an all-star lineup—sports psychologist and performance coach Dr. Tyler Murray, renowned groom and educator Emma Ford, and top groom Stephanie Simpson—the panel will unpack the invisible load so many barn professionals carry and explore how we can build a more supportive, sustainable culture for both horses and humans.

This virtual event is free to attend and open to everyone—whether you’re managing a bustling program or simply looking for better balance in your horse life. Attendees can even submit questions in advance when they register.

📅 Don’t miss this powerful session—register here.

US Equestrian Open of Eventing: Where Things Stand After the Spring Qualifiers

Phillip Dutton and Jewelent. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

We’re just about halfway to the $200,000 Final of the US Equestrian Open of Eventing, and the leaderboard is starting to take shape — though if we’ve learned anything from the first few qualifier legs, it’s that anything can happen in this exciting new game.

The most recent qualifier, held at Tryon International Equestrian Center, added a fresh twist to the standings as Sharon White and her MARS Maryland 5 Star CCI3*-L winner Jaguars Duende clinched the win and picked up 40 points toward the Open leaderboard to bring her total to 90. 

If you’re just catching up: the US Equestrian Open is a brand-new high-stakes series aimed at raising the profile — and the prize money — of eventing in the U.S. The format is straightforward: compete in designated CCI4*-S qualifiers across the country, earn points based on your finish, and earn your spot in the Final, held at Morven Park’s CCI4*-L this October. That Final carries a $200,000 purse — the biggest ever awarded at this level in the U.S. (and really, just about anywhere in the world). On top of that, the top points earners are eligible for an additional $50,000 in prize money. To keep things fair, riders can use their top six finishes toward the series prize. 

Jessica Phoenix and Freedom GS. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Here’s how it works:

  • Each qualifier is worth up to 50 points for the winner of the CCI4*-S division, depending on the number of starters.
  • Points are awarded through 10th place in divisions with 25+ starters, and through 8th in divisions with 25 or fewer starters. 
  • Your best six results count toward your final score — meaning consistency is key, but there’s room to rebound if one weekend doesn’t go to plan.
  • Riders can also buy in to the Final for a $5,000 fee (which is contributed to the overall prize fund), which opens this competition up to riders who missed qualifiers or even international riders who want to come from overseas. We could see some riders bring a 4* horse over for Morven and a 5* horse over for the Maryland 5 Star the following weekend.

James Alliston and Karma. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

So far, we’ve seen qualifiers at venues such as TerraNova, Stable View, Ocala, Kentucky, Aspen Farms and Tryon. Next is Maryland International (MD) this weekend. From there, it’s on to the final stretch: six qualifiers will remain before we turn toward the season finale in Leesburg, VA. The final qualifier will be held at Woodside International in California.

And what a finale it promises to be — a championship-style atmosphere, a big crowd, and that eye-popping prize pot. For many riders, this is a rare chance to ride for serious money at a level that develops our future 5* stars and team horses.

Looking to the current leaderboard, U.S. Olympic medalist Phillip Dutton is currently sitting atop the standings, with 215 points accumulated toward the leaderboard bonus to date. Dutton has completed his minimum of six qualifiers, but can still add more points by replacing one or some of those six results with better finishes at future events. Right behind Dutton is Canadian Olympic rider Jessica Phoenix, who has earned 185 points with five qualifying results. Brit-turned-American rider James Alliston is in third overall currently with 145 points across five qualifying results. 

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Want to dive deeper?
🧠 Here’s a quick guide to how the series works
📊 Check the current leaderboard — and get ready to hit refresh after every qualifier

We’ll be watching closely as the summer season kicks off — and we’ll keep bringing you the stories behind the points, the partnerships that are building momentum, and the nail-biters yet to come. Who will punch their ticket to Morven Park? We’ve only a short time to wait to find out.

Hold onto your helmet covers — this one’s only just heating up.

This article is brought to you with support from the Virginia Horse Industry Board, championing the Commonwealth’s vibrant equine community.

The Virginia Horse Industry Board (VHIB) was established to promote the economic development of the state’s horse industry through education, marketing, and research. Funded by fees collected from feed sales, the VHIB reinvests in programs that benefit horse owners, breeders, and enthusiasts across all disciplines. From supporting local events and youth initiatives to advancing equine health and industry sustainability, the Board plays a key role in preserving and growing Virginia’s rich horse heritage. Learn more here.

German Squad Named for CHIO Aachen

Anna Siemer and FRH Butts Avondale (GER). Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Germany has tapped the riders it will be sending to compete on “home” turf at CHIO Aachen in July (July 4-5 will see the eventing competition during this 10-day festival). The following pairs have been nominated, in alphabetical order:

  • Nicolai Aldinger with Timmo
  • Antonia Baumgart with Ris de Talm
  • TEAM Calvin Böckmann with Altair de la Cense
  • Emma Brüssau with Dark Desire GS
  • Pauline Knorr with Aevolet MAF
  • TEAM Libussa Lübbeke with Caramia
  • TEAM Jérôme Robiné with Black Ice
  • Nina Schultes with Grand Prix iWest
  • TEAM Anna Siemer with FRH Butt’s Avondale

To add to the fun, Calvin Böckmann with Kasparow FRH and Jérôme Robiné with Thorsten will also be competing in the popular Jump & Drive class on Saturday evening. We can also look forward to the unveiling of a cross country course put down through fresh eyes in Giuseppe Della Chiesa, who is also anticipated to be tapped to design for next year’s FEI World Championships, also to be held at CHIO Aachen.

To follow along with more CHIO Aachen coverage, click here.

A Brighter Moon: How Full Moon Farm’s Eventing Foundation is Widening Eventing’s Orbit

FMFEF Board Members (L to R: Katrina Davis, Chris Lindsay, Christine Hryzak, Stephen Fulton, Karen Fulton, Ashley Pearman, Jeremy Scott, Grace Fulton); also pictured: Dylan Vancamp)

Tucked into the rolling hills of Finksburg, MD, Full Moon Farm has been a local mainstay in the Mid-Atlantic equestrian scene for over 30 years. Known for its warm welcome and grassroots focus, the farm has long provided a launching pad for riders of all backgrounds. Now, through the creation of the Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation (FMFEF), the Fulton family is working to ensure that horses—and the sport of eventing—are not just available to the few, but truly accessible to all.

The foundation, launched officially in 2024, is the culmination of a decades-long dream for farm owners Karen and Stephen Fulton. “We’d kicked the idea around for about 30 years,” Karen explains. “After COVID, and with everything happening in the world, it just felt like the right time. Horses are good for people—period—and we wanted to make sure that everyone who wanted a path into this world had a way in.”

That mission, Karen says, has always been at the heart of Full Moon Farm’s operations. The farm welcomes a wide range of students across socio-economic backgrounds, and their thriving lesson and lease program has introduced hundreds of young riders to horses without the need for ownership. Formalizing their inclusive ethos into a nonprofit was a natural next step.

FMFEF was built around three pillars: to promote good horsemanship, to prevent marginalization, and to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in equestrian sport. While the foundation’s name includes “eventing,” its scope goes far beyond competitive goals. “We don’t just want to support riders who look a certain way or ride at a certain level,” Karen says. “We want to help anyone with financial need, anyone who wants to be part of this world—whether that’s in the saddle or behind the scenes.”

Photo by Madi Hunter for Erin Gilmore Photography.

One of FMFEF’s most ambitious early goals was to establish a national award through the United States Eventing Association (USEA) that would support riders from underrepresented or underserved backgrounds. In order to create an ongoing award—rather than a one-time grant—the foundation was tasked with raising $25,000 in seed funding. The USEA invests this amount, guaranteeing that the award can be given annually for years to come.

Raising that amount would be a stretch for any new organization, let alone one operating just months into its existence. But the FMFEF team took the challenge head-on. “It was a little bit of a ‘go big or go home’ moment,” Karen says. “We want to be part of building a wider base for the sport, and this felt like a way to put our money where our mouth is.” At the time of this writing, the foundation has already surpassed $20,000 in donations—well ahead of schedule.

While the national grant may be the marquee project, FMFEF’s impact is felt most directly in its local community. Each summer, the foundation offers fully-funded scholarships for youth riders to attend Full Moon Farm’s popular camps. “Horse camp is expensive,” Karen says. “Even for day camp, it adds up quickly. This is a way we can bring in kids who might never have had the opportunity otherwise.” FMFEF partners with local organizations such as Sub Scholars to identify scholarship recipients, and plans to expand the number of supported campers in the future.

Fundraising efforts have been woven into the existing rhythm of life at the farm. The annual Derby-Cross, held just before a recognized horse trials, doubles as a fundraiser—and a fan favorite. “People like feeling like they’re getting something for their money, not just writing a check,” Karen says. “And we’re already setting everything up for the horse trials anyway, so it works.” Community outreach extends beyond the farm gates, too—especially when it involves Oliver, the foundation’s beloved miniature horse. Outfitted in a rainbow-trimmed blanket bearing a QR code, Oliver is a frequent visitor at farmers markets, local festivals, and Pride events, where he serves as both mascot and walking donation box.

The foundation also prioritizes educational outreach, with a focus on inclusion. This June, FMFEF will host a virtual panel discussion titled “Navigating the Horse Industry as Trans and Queer Equestrians.” Moderated by Emily Jacobs, a longtime community member and former Navy officer, the panel aims to offer a space for shared experiences and practical guidance, both for LGBTQ+ riders and for allies hoping to foster safer, more welcoming barns. “These are people who have been part of our community forever,” Karen says. “We just want to make sure they know they’re seen and supported.”

That sense of belonging has long been baked into the culture at Full Moon Farm. “We always tell people—there are plenty of great places to ride. But if you don’t treat people right, you’re not going to be welcome here,” Karen says. “We’ve got kids and grandkids growing up at this farm. It’s our home.”

Karen recalls one of the early community forums the foundation held in 2024, where a young rider—someone who had grown up at the farm—shared for the first time what it had meant to navigate the space as a queer teen. “I’d known this kid forever, and it just never occurred to me,” Karen says. “But it was so powerful to hear how hard it had been sometimes. Not because anyone meant to be hurtful, but just because we weren’t thinking.”

Those stories sparked a series of listening sessions and informal trainings—led by board member Katrina, who works in HR professionally—designed to help the FMF community better understand the lived experiences of its members. “No one wants to make someone feel uncomfortable,” Karen says. “But if we’re not aware of what someone else is carrying, how can we help lighten the load?”

That commitment to awareness and education is also reflected in the farm’s riding school model, which serves as the true backbone of Full Moon Farm. “We’ve always believed in starting from the bottom,” Karen explains. “You come for a birthday party, you take a couple lessons, maybe you lease a pony, maybe you join an equitation team.” With a stable of 60 horses and a staff committed to developing riders at all levels, FMF makes it possible to ride—really ride—without needing to own a horse.

Jeremy and Oliver make excellent mascots!

That model feeds into the Foundation’s goals too. Many of the farm’s students go on to volunteer as jump judges, scorers, ring crew, and course decorators. “It’s a full-circle process,” Karen says. “You start out as a camper, and maybe one day you’re helping judge a horse trials. That kind of engagement is what keeps the sport alive.”

Full Moon Farm’s calendar reflects that same holistic mindset. In addition to three annual recognized events—April, June 29, and fall—the farm also runs unrecognized schooling shows, summer clinics, and youth programs. New for 2025 is a USEA Young Event Horse Qualifier scheduled for June 30, added to address a lack of local qualifiers prior to the July rule changes.

This week also saw the return of FMF’s summer clinic series, with horsemanship sessions led by Michael Aloisi, jumping days with Woodge Fulton, and cross country schooling with Christine Hryzak. While many sessions are already full, auditing opportunities remain—and proceeds will support FMFEF. The full calendar of events on the docket can be found here.

The foundation’s work may be just beginning, but it has already built a groundswell of support. That, Karen says, is proof that the sport is ready to grow. “Horses don’t care what pronouns you use or what’s in your wallet,” she says. “They care if you bring carrots. And we want to make sure more people get the chance to show up with a pocket full of carrots.”

For more information about FMFEF, upcoming events, or how to donate, visit the FMFEF website here.

Irish Team Named for CHIO Aachen

Ian Cassells and Millridge Atlantis. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The Irish team heading to CHIO Aachen in July (July 4-5 will see eventing competition action in Germany) has been named! Here’s a look at the pairs who will be representing the Irish in just a couple weeks’ time:

☘️ Padraig McCarthy and Zabaoine (ISH)
2016 Bay Gelding. Breeder: Padraig McCarthy. Sire: Zavall VDL. Dam: Viancara VDL. Owners: Diane Brunsden, Peter Cattell, Padraig McCarthy

☘️ Georgie Goss and Kojak (KWPN)
2015 Black Gelding. Breeder: H. Vos. Sire: Namelus R. Dam: Vicktoria. Owners: Molly Fisher, Lucy Fleming, Georgie Goss, Samantha Wilson

☘️ Sarah Ennis and Dourough Ferro Class Act (ISH)
2015 Bay Gelding. Breeder: Gordon Drury. Sire: S Creevagh Ferro. Dam: ISHD Class Act. Owners: James Potterton, Niki Potterton

☘️ Ian Cassells and Millridge Atlantis (ISH)
2014 Grey Gelding. Breeder: Sean O’Loughlin. Sire: Dinan Sascaletto. Dam: Kereen Sue. Owners: Fiona & Gerry Leahy

To see more teams for Aachen and other coverage, click here.

Girl On Fire: Samantha Lissington is Riding the Wave

Sam Lissington and Ricker Ridge Sooty GNZ. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

It’s been a big spring for British-based Kiwi rider Samantha Lissington, who rode the wave of a triple podium sweep at Royal Jump’s CCI4*-L in Chaumont-en-Vexin, France to an additional podium finish in the CCI5* at Longines Luhmühlen in Germany.

“When you’re on form, you can either maintain or go downhill, so there’s a bit of pressure to keep it up!” Sam admitted at Luhmühlen. And it’s true: big results come few and far between in our sport. With that in mind, however, it’s key to enjoy the waves of success when they come, using them as fuel to build toward more of the same in the future.

For Sam, the results of the past few weeks are proof in the pudding of exactly what can happen when horsepower, hustle, and business smarts come together at the right moment.

Those “big results” began (this year, at least) at Bicton where Sam was on the podium in the CCI4*S with Lord Seekonig. A week later, she headed to Royal Jump, where Sam took home first place in the CCI4*-L with the High Flyers Syndicate’s Quantas R, second aboard Billy Alberto for Alison Spence, and third on Delarado for Kate Maitland, Rachel Bessell, Sam and her husband, Brayden. She was also second in the CCI4*-S that weekend with Ricker Ridge Sooty GNZ in what would be his final prep for Luhmühlen; the 14-year-old Holsteiner/Thoroughbred gelding would go on to finish second in Germany.

A Journey to the World Stage

Sam and Quantas R en route to the 4*-L victory at Royal Jump. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

For Sam, this string of success is part of a bigger picture—one she’s been patiently building alongside her husband, Brayden, ever since she made the leap from New Zealand to the UK in 2019. Like many Kiwi riders before her—Mark Todd, Andrew Nicholson, Blyth Tait, Jock Paget, Tim and Jonelle Price, to name just a few—she knew the only way to develop consistently at the top of the sport was to compete against the best, in the heart of where it all happens.

“I always viewed New Zealand as the place to build a foundation and sharpen your skills,” she said. “But if you want to play on the world stage, you have to be based abroad.”

Sam knew she had an eye for both selecting and producing horses; the first horse she took 5* in New Zealand was a horse called Ricker Ridge Pico Boo, a horse she and her father picked out as a three-year-old when she was a teenager. She went on to take that horse to the Adelaide 5* before setting her sights on expanding her operations.

“I got lucky with the one horse who really put me on the map, and for some reason I think that developed my feel and my eye, and picking horses has always come super naturally to me,” Sam explained. “I’ve always invested time – more importantly than money – into finding horsepower, and I’ve always had the philosophy that the right horse doesn’t always come at the right time, sometimes you have to go out on a limb or take a risk, and other times you just have to be patient. I think that has paid off in the long run.”

“You could argue that I’m just good at producing, but the horses I choose do seem to go on,” she continued. “I’d gotten to the point where I had four four-star horses in New Zealand before we left.”

The eventual move to the UK came with no guarantees. She arrived with four horses, no local owner base, and a whole lot of uncertainty.

And then COVID hit.

“We struggled for two years during the pandemic because we couldn’t build any new relationships. No one could visit the yard, there were no events, no way to meet people,” she recalled. “But it also gave us the space to refine our system. We would not have survived without the support of our two New Zealand based owners, Pip McCarroll and Sharon Honiss – they were a lifeline for us and they didn’t even get to see their horses in the flesh until years later!”

Horses, Owners, and Honest Conversations

Sam Lissington and Ricker Ridge Sooty. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

The foundation of that system is built not just on picking the right horses—but on connecting with the right people.

Samantha and her husband Brayden (who co-hosts the popular Eventing Weekly podcast) didn’t arrive in the UK with deep pockets. What they had was drive, transparency, and a willingness to let their work—and their horses—speak for themselves.

Their first UK ownership relationship began at a pub, when Brayden struck up a conversation while walking their dog. That stranger-soon-to-be-friend, Jules Humphreys and her husband, Martin, lived just down the hill from their yard, came up for a visit, and brought along their friends (Annabelle and Robin Greville-Williams). The group would eventually buy into Quantas R, and from there, the circle kept growing.

The list of Team Lissington supporters is burgeoning and growing and “these relationships have been instrumental in helping us be successful.”

“Our owners are really our friends,” she continued. “Friendships can begin anywhere: a dog walk, standing in a coffee line at an event, a loose connection through a mutual friend. But all friendships are based on honesty and a genuine connection. There is a lot of opportunity here in the UK, but it is important that you bring the right people for the right reasons into your circle.”

What follows is a structure rooted in that aforementioned honesty. “We never overpromise, and we’re always super clear about long-term goals and our expectations of the horses.. People want to feel like they’re part of something, and when you’re transparent and consistent, they stick with you through the ups and downs.”

Many of her owners are horse people themselves—some with top-level experience, others who just love the game. “I’d like to think they believe in us as people, not just in the horse of the moment,” Sam said. “That makes a difference when you’re building something sustainable.”

Building a String from the Ground Up

Samantha Lissington and Lord Seekonig. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

This year’s results (and we’re only halfway through the year!) are a payoff from years of thoughtful planning and selective building on Sam’s part – and these horses are just a few of the current and coming 4* horses in her yard.

Quantas R, further to Sam’s philosophy that too much too fast doesn’t do anyone any good, didn’t even run a 4*-L last year—by choice.

“He had a huge seven-year-old year, and we knew he was special. We didn’t want to run the legs off him. We took a step back and focused on control, maturity, and the big picture,” she said.

Billy Alberto was a different sort of project. Produced by Sophie Fouracre and handed down to a Junior rider, he came with a tricky flatwork foundation and a whole lot of personality. “He’d rather gallop around with his nose in the air like a giraffe,” Sam laughed. “But he’s fast, runs in a snaffle, and is surprisingly rideable. He’s the ultimate yes-man – unless you’re asking him to do dressage!”

Sam and Delarado at Royal Jump. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

Delarado, originally meant to be sold as a potential Young Rider horse, was another who turned out to be too special to part with. “She’s never had a rail down with me in eventing, and she came home from her first 4*-L feeling like a proper one,” she said. “We decided to buy into her ourselves at the end of last year in order to keep the ride, and I’m so glad we did.”

Ricker Ridge Sooty GNZ (who was second in the 4*-S at Royal Jump) is the longest standing member of Team Lissington and was purchased with co-owner Pip McCarroll as a five-year-old nearly a decade ago, making the eventual move to the UK with Sam and her team. Now 14, he has taken them all over the world and, as Sam puts it, “We fit each other like a glove.” Last weekend at Luhmühlen, he brought Sam her best 5* result to date.
“I always knew he was going to be a good one,” Sam said of “Sooty” after her show jumping round at Luhmühlen. “I’m so glad I’ve been able to show the world what a horse he is.”

Lord Seekonig, who was second at Bicton in the CCI4*S in May, was the first horse Sam didn’t produce from scratch. She and Sharon Honiss had sold a young horse and bought the took a “shortcut”, buying him as a nine-year-old campaigning at 3* level by Ireland’s Alex Power in 2022. Two years later, he’d finish just outside the top 10 at Luhmühlen’s 5*. Annabelle and Robin Greville-Williams and Neil Robertson joined the journey as supporters of this horse, and Sam believes they are only just starting to tap into his real potential. She’s planning to aim him at CHIO Aachen in July with an eye to the upcoming FEI World Championships, also to be held at Aachen in 2026.

Sam also has two 3* horses in the wings (Malibu TS and Lucas Stone) who will aim for Blenheim at the end of the year.

The Philosophy: Safety, Type, and the Long Game

Sam and Billy Alberto at Royal Jump. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

Now part of the EquiRatings Horse Sales team, Sam’s eye for talent is helping other riders and owners find the right horses, too. With access to performance data from over 8,000 FEI horses, she filters potential matches, not by name recognition or flashy breeding, but by metrics and then, most importantly, instincts.

“What I look for first is a horse that’s careful—with a good front end,” she explained. “That’s non-negotiable. Safety over cross country and reliability in the show jumping ring are absolutely key.”

From there, it’s about potential and rideability. “You start by asking: what can we improve? How much will that improvement impact the final score? Is this horse more suited to Burghley, or the Olympics, or something like Aachen? Those are very different jobs now.”

Blood percentage used to be the first filter—but not anymore. “We used to shop 50% [blood] or more, but now we shop on type. Easter Star [a mare with about 35% blood on paper who is currently campaigned at the Advanced level in the U.S. by Britain’s Lucienne Bellissimo] proved that to me. Some of our best gallopers with the most stamina don’t have much blood on paper.”

Importantly, Sam builds with flexibility – and commercial viability – in mind. “Not every horse has to be a 5* horse. But they all need to have a job. If it turns out they’re better suited to a talented amateur or Young Rider, then we reinvest and go again. Our owners know that—some horses become ‘keepers’, and some we end up producing to sell. But every horse has a future, and every one of them teaches us something.”

Additionally, this enables Sam to sell horses on that will make her owners a tidy profit; as she puts it, “our owners have generally done really well because they either get a four- or a five-star horse, or they make some money. The goal is to keep delivering that within our community.”

Sam Lissington and Ricker Ridge Sooty GNZ. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

At the end of the day, any professional rider also needs to create a business model that allows them to fund their operation. Sam clued me in to the model she’s crafted the business around: “We’ve created a model that is more sustainable than we used to have,” she explained. “Whenever we buy a young horse we try to keep at least 25% ownership, so if that horse gets sold we get some money back in the bank to fund the running costs of others. But if that horse transitions to a ‘keeper’, usually at the point where it proves it has what it takes to be competitive at four-star level, we sell the final 12.5% share to an owner who might like to get involved at the top end with a proven horse. This allows us to keep putting our money where our mouth is in that we are always financially invested in the horses’ journeys, but it also keeps the business sustainable long term.”

Delarado and Quantas are now both at that stage, with 12.5% shares now on offer for interested parties.

As she looks ahead to her upcoming goals for her burgeoning string of horses, which include a trip to the Blenheim 8/9-Year-Olds in September for Quantas R, Lucas Stone and Malibu TS, a start at Burghley for Billy Alberto, a trip to CHIO Aachen with Lord Seekonig, and Boekelo, Strezgom and Pau also on the list. She’s a busy girl, but the proof is in the results – both on paper, and intrinsically felt in training – that a dedication to correct production, enlisting trusted support, and her riding and production of horses speaks for itself.

With all eyes on WEG in 2026, Sam looks back at her journey to this point with pride.

“It’s not just about this result,” she said at Luhmühlen. “It’s about the last 15 years of work that have gone into it. So, it feels like we’re riding a wave, and I’m hoping we can keep riding it—keep learning and building on it.

“We’ve built a team I’m proud of,” Sam concluded in our interview. “And now we’re trying to create a program where every horse, every owner, and every moment adds up to something bigger.”

LA28 Has a Cross Country Course Designer: Alec Lochore

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

The FEI has unanimously approved Great Britain’s Alec Lochore as cross country course designer for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028 during its recent Board Meeting in Swizterland. All equestrian sports, including para equestrian, will be held at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, just to the north of LA proper, from July 14-30, 2028. Fellow Brit Mike Etherington-Smith has been tapped as course advisor.

Alec brings a wealth of experience both as a designer as well as a person who’s been involved on the ground at the Olympics; he’s previously served as Eventing Manager for the London Olympics in 2012 and helped to oversee test events and cross country planning at both London and Tokyo (2021). A Level 4 FEI course designer, he has also designed at staple events such as Burnham Market CCI4*-S/L, Houghton International CCIO4*-S, Barbury Castle CCI4*-S and Blair Castle CCI4*-S/L. Stateside, he is the current designer at The Event at TerraNova in Myakka City, FL.

“I am humbled, honoured and delighted to have been asked to design the cross-country track for the Olympic Games LA28,” Alec said in an FEI press release. “It will be a great challenge, and one which I am looking forward to immensely. Each Olympics is unique and special. The Olympics is the biggest showcase that our sport — that any sport — has, and to be chosen as course designer is very exciting.”

FEI President Ingmar De Vos praised the appointment, stating: “He holds excellent credentials as a first-class Eventing course designer but also as a technical delegate and an organiser. He was instrumental in advising the FEI on the cross-country feasibility at the LA28 equestrian venue at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, and we are confident that, in cooperation with Mike Etherington-Smith, he will design a course that challenges the world’s best while showcasing the heart of our sport to a wider global audience.”

Work on the LA28 cross country course is set to begin in the coming weeks.

Steph Simpson Enjoys the Ride with Tsetserleg at New Jersey

Steph Simpson and Tsetserleg. Photo by Amy Dragoo.

It wasn’t a high-stakes international competition or a final bid for a championship title, but for the people who know him best, the Open Novice run at the New Jersey Horse Trials might go down as one of the most meaningful moments in the legendary career of Tsetserleg TSF.

Now 18, the diminutive black Trakehner gelding—known simply as “Thomas”—has spent nearly a decade at the pinnacle of eventing. With Boyd Martin in the irons, he represented the U.S. at the World Equestrian Games, the Pan American Games, and the Tokyo Olympics. He tackled the world’s toughest tracks: Kentucky, Badminton, Burghley, Luhmühlen. But at New Jersey this weekend, the reins were passed—literally and symbolically—to someone else: longtime #supergroom and rider Stephanie Simpson.

“I was really trying to fly under the radar,” Steph admitted. I told her that when I was watching, there was no such thing. “But then entries went live and I was like, ‘Oh god, they’re here!’”

For years, Steph has been Thomas’s steady constant—the one who managed his day-to-day care, kept him fit at home, and stayed quietly in the background while he shined on the world stage. Her relationship with Thomas began when both she and the horse arrived at Windurra nearly at the same time. Since then, their bond has been unshakable.

“It’s been no secret that Stephanie and Thomas have had a unique connection,” Boyd said. “She’s been right by his side through epic championships—the Pan Ams, the WEGs, the Olympics—and five-stars at Badminton, Burghley, Luhmühlen, and Kentucky. She always dreamed of what it would feel like to ride him in a show.”

Stephanie Simpson and Tsetserleg in Tokyo. Photo via Stephanie Simpson.

That dream became reality thanks to the blessing Thomas’s longtime owner, Christine Turner (who owns Thomas alongside her husband, Thomas, and her daughter, Tommie), who saw the opportunity as a fitting thank-you to the person who’s devoted so much of her life to the horse.

“Steph rides him all the time and loves that horse so much,” Chris said. “She’s done so much for him—this was the least I could do. And I think she’s going to go down as having the lowest dressage score in the history of Thomas!”

Chris has been with Thomas very nearly since the beginning — he was bred in the U.S. by the late Tim Holekamp — and at this point in his lengthy career, she’s continuing to enjoy the ride. She’s trusted Boyd’s judgment throughout his career, and after his spring campaign and a trip to Luhmühlen that didn’t happen due to opposing schedules, it became clear that it might be the perfect time to let Steph have a spin.

“He’ll give you everything he has, even when it’s getting hard,” Boyd said. “We all came up with the idea that it would be special for both Thomas and Steph to go to a show together—something fun and light.”

Even so, Steph wasn’t taking anything for granted. Though she’s ridden Thomas on the flat and helped with conditioning work for years, it had been quite awhile since she’d jumped him. And in true Thomas fashion, he approached the Novice fences with a bit of skepticism.

Steph and Tsetserleg during show jumping at HPNJ. Photo by Amy Dragoo.

“The first day we went cross country schooling, he looked at me like, ‘Are we supposed to be doing this?’” she laughed. “And then at the event, in warm-up, I literally jumped two logs and said, ‘Okay, we’re going with that.’ The first few fences on course, he was like, ‘Surely this gets more complex soon.’ But by fence ten, he was cruising.”

The dressage phase showcased the prowess that’s always made Thomas a crowd favorite—albeit with a few confused moments as he recalibrated to the simpler demands of the level. “The hardest thing for him is the easiest movements,” Steph said. “Like a canter-trot transition—he’s thinking, is it a flying change? A walk? I’m like, ‘No buddy, we’re in kindergarten again.’ But if I give him half a decent ride, he does the rest.”

While she may have earned Thomas’s lowest dressage score, the clock wasn’t quite as generous. “I threw in a couple of courtesy circles because we were going way too fast,” she said wryly. “But by the end, he was really with me. It was actually a good learning experience for both of us. If we go out again, I think he’ll be a little more relaxed, a little less convinced that he’s running a four-star.”

Chris, watching from afar, couldn’t help but reflect on the journey they’ve all shared. “I’ve gotten to see the world with my horse,” she said. “How many people can say that? I never imagined I’d go to the Olympics as a horse owner—it’s been incredible. He never quite got his big win, and I’ve always felt that. But he helped Boyd get to all those championships and finish strong, and that meant everything.”

For Steph, the ride marked a deeply personal full-circle moment. “He doesn’t owe me anything,” she said. “This is just something fun for him—something easier on his body that keeps him happy. And when he tells us he’s over it, we’ll listen. But for now, he’s still Thomas.”

Photo by Amy Dragoo.

If Boyd had been there, she suspects it wouldn’t have gone quite so smoothly. “He would’ve embarrassed the hell out of me and made me jump stuff I didn’t want to!” she joked. “It was the perfect storm that he wasn’t.”

But in truth, there was nothing stormy about the day—just a quiet (ok, maybe not ALL THE WAY quiet), joyful lap around a Novice course with a horse who has given his people everything. And with any luck, a few more of those moments are still to come.

Yellow Card Issued at Luhmühlen CCI5*

Lea Siegl and DSP Fighting Line. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

One FEI Yellow Warning Card was issued at Longines Luhmühlen in Germany this past weekend. Austrian Olympian Lea Siegl was handed down the penalty for “Abuse of Horse – Excessive use of whip, bit and/or spurs (Eventing Rules Art. 526).” The card was issued after Lea’s cross country ride aboard DSP Fighting Line; the combination went on to finish fifth overall in the CCI5* division. No further information on the penalty has been issued.

FEI Yellow Warning Cards can be issued by the President of the Ground Jury, the Chief Steward or the Technical Delegate during the Period of Jurisdiction for the following offenses:

  • Abuse of Horse
  • Incorrect Behaviour by the Person Responsible and/or Incorrect Behaviour by a member of their entourage. For the purpose of this article, the term “entourage” shall mean the Person Responsible’s parent, spouse or partner, family
    member, coach, trainer, groom, crew or other person directly connected with the Person Responsible and includes the owner(s) of the Person Responsible’s Horse.
  • Non-compliance with applicable Sport Rules
  • Non-compliance with Protective Headgear Rules

This is Lea’s only recorded warning or yellow card, according to the list of sanctions that’s maintained by the FEI. A second offense within one year of the issuance of the first results in a two-month suspension.

How EN reports on warnings, cards, and other sanctions: EN reports on sanctions handed down after CCI5* events and major championships (Olympics, World Championships, etc.). The current list of FEI yellow cards and recorded warnings can be found here

22 Riders Receive Rebecca Farm Travel Grants

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

As riders across the country prepare to make the journey to Kalispell, MT for The Event at Rebecca Farm, held July 16-20, many will do so with critical financial support thanks to the Rebecca Farm Travel Grants. Administered by the USEA Foundation and made possible by the generosity of the Broussard Family Charitable Foundation Trust, these grants have long played a vital role in helping up-and-coming riders compete at one of North America’s premier eventing destinations.

In total, $59,000 in grant funds were awarded this year, with all eligible applicants receiving funding. The travel grants are available to riders of any age competing at the CCI3 or CCI4 level** who have not yet represented the United States at a senior championship such as the Olympics, World Championships, or Pan American Games.

The 2025 grants reflect an expanded commitment to the program, with earlier announcements confirming a doubling of the grant amounts to better offset the rising cost of travel. This year, recipients in the CCI4* divisions will receive approximately $2 per mile traveled, while CCI3* competitors will receive $1 per mile.

Since the inception of the travel grant program in 2011, over $200,000 has been distributed to promising athletes striving toward future international representation.

2025 Rebecca Farm Travel Grant Recipients

CCI3*

  • Anni Grandia-Dodson
  • Meg Pellegrini
  • Claire Robinson
  • Lauren Salgueiro
  • Kaylawna Smith-Cook
  • Megan Sykes
  • Harper Click
  • Marc Grandia
  • Mason Reidy
  • Ali Kuhn

CCI4*

  • Alex Conrad
  • Tommy Greengard
  • Allison Springer
  • Briggs Surratt
  • Chris Talley
  • Skyeler Voss
  • Madeline Backus
  • Rebecca Brown
  • Jack Curtis
  • Kristi Foresman
  • Erin Grandia
  • Lizzie Hoff

With continued support from the Broussard Family Charitable Foundation Trust, the Rebecca Farm Travel Grants remain a powerful example of investing in the future of U.S. eventing by helping talented riders reach their goals on one of the sport’s most inspiring stages.

Learn more about the USEA Foundation and its work supporting educational, safety, inclusion and equine welfare initiatives here.

Chris Bartle to Lead First-Ever Eventing Training at CHIO Aachen CAMPUS

Chris Bartle heads up a Team GB stronghold at the in-gate. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

This July, the world-renowned CHIO Aachen grounds will welcome a new class of equestrian athletes as the CHIO Aachen CAMPUS hosts its first-ever International Training Camp for Eventing, led by one of the sport’s most respected figures: Chris Bartle.

Taking place from July 18–20, 2025, the immersive three-day program is designed for eventing riders competing at the international level, requiring participants to have achieved at least one Minimum Eligibility Requirement (MER) at the 2* level or above with their participating horse. The cost of the full program is €1,500 (about $1734 USD), which includes stabling, full board for both rider and a companion, and a packed schedule of world-class education.

“Aachen is an amazing venue,” said Chris, who currently serves as the British Eventing High Performance Coach. “It will be great to have eventing as part of the CHIO Aachen CAMPUS for the first time. We want to expand the standard of the sport and provide new incentives for riders and horses.”

Participants will train across the CHIO Aachen Dressage Stadium and the iconic Aachen cross-country course (weather permitting), offering a rare opportunity to ride on the same turf as the world’s top eventers. Bartle will lead an intensive program focused on developing a deeper partnership between horse and rider, emphasizing clear communication, shared responsibility, and a system riders can rely on even under the pressure of top competition.

Program Highlights:
Day 1: Technical arena training focused on the core principles of cross-country riding

Day 2: Individual dressage sessions in the CHIO Aachen Dressage Stadium

Day 3: Cross country session on the official CHIO Aachen course (weather-dependent)

Additional Features:

  • Seat training on the advanced SAP equestrian simulator, replicating the Aachen cross country course
  • Fitness training tailored to riders
  • Theory session on cross-country fundamentals
  • Course walk and video analysis of the 2025 CHIO Aachen cross country
  • Q&A with Chris Bartle in the official CHIO Aachen press conference room

Throughout the camp, Chris will share his proven training philosophy: “The rider communicates with the horse through seat position and body language, supported by seat, leg, and only finally with the hand.” This method helped guide Germany to multiple team medals during his 16-year tenure with their national eventing program.

For those who’ve dreamed of riding at Aachen but haven’t yet made it to the World Equestrian Festival, this camp provides an exclusive opportunity to train at the sport’s pinnacle venue while learning from one of its most influential minds.

More information and registration details can be found here.

FEI Launches New Working Group to Tackle Equestrian Safety Vest Standards

Jessie Phoenix and Wabbit. Photo by Sally Spickard.

In a significant move toward advancing rider safety, the FEI has announced the creation of the Equestrian Safety Vest Working Group (ESVWG), a global initiative designed to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of protective equipment used across equestrian disciplines.

With the popularity of both traditional body protectors and air vests steadily rising, questions have mounted over the lack of independent, science-backed data assessing their true impact on injury prevention. The newly formed group, chaired by Dr. Mark Hart (USA), Chair of the FEI Medical Committee, aims to close this gap through a comprehensive review of safety vest performance, real-world injury data, and testing protocols.

“While there is growing support for the use of body protectors and air vests in both sport and recreational riding, there is still minimal data to fully understand their effectiveness,” Dr. Hart said. “Athletes and others in the community are asking important, constructive questions… and these insights are helping to drive the discussion toward more effective and evidence-based safety solutions.”

The ESVWG will operate through two international panels:

The Scientific Panel, comprised of experts in biomechanics, injury modeling, medicine, vest manufacturing, and regulatory standards, will focus on analyzing thoracic and spinal injuries and developing more relevant safety testing frameworks.

The National Federation Advisory Panel, composed of members nominated by their respective NFs, will ensure global stakeholder input, support community communication, and assist with fundraising for future research efforts.

The Working Group’s remit includes evaluating how vests affect rider mobility and horse behavior, as well as recommending improvements to injury data collection and fall analysis. It will also seek collaboration with other high-risk sports like horse racing and motocross to cross-reference findings and promote safer vest design.

The ESVWG follows in the footsteps of the FEI Helmet Working Group, whose research helped shape Virginia Tech’s influential equestrian helmet rating system. By applying a similar evidence-based approach, the FEI hopes to deliver meaningful change in rider safety through innovation, scientific scrutiny, and global collaboration.

A full list of ESVWG members and other information is available on the FEI website here.

Maj-Jonna Ziebell’s Chiquita Euthanized Following Injury in Luhmühlen CCI4*-S

We are devastated to bring you news of a horse death at Longines Luhmühlen’s CCI4*-s today following an incident on cross country. German rider Maj-Jonna Ziebell and Chiquita, a 13-year-old Polish mare, fell at the C element of fence 14 on course today. The mare was immediately attended to and transported to a local veterinary clinic, where it was determined that her injury — a broken shoulder — was too severe and the decision was made to humanely euthanize.

Luhmühlen has released the following statement. The statement has been translated from German; please forgive any translation errors.

“During a fall on the CCI4*-S cross-country course, the horse Chiquita, ridden by German rider Maj-Jonna Ziebell, sustained an injury. The horse received immediate veterinary care on site and was transported to a nearby veterinary clinic.

“Unfortunately, we have just received the news that, following a veterinary examination, the unavoidable decision was made to euthanize the horse. The rider is deeply affected: “My horse was something truly special. Everyone who had the chance to get to know Chiquita better — which she allowed on her own terms — fell in love with her. I’ve lost my best friend and I’m unimaginably heartbroken.”

The team at EN extends our heartfelt condolences to Maj-Jonna and the connections of Chiquita.

This article was updated to provide the nature of the injury to Chiquita.