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Sally Spickard
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Sally Spickard

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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

Tuesday Video Break: Let the Carolina International Helmet Cams Commence

By on Mar 21, 2023 2:30 pm - 574 views

It’s time for us to relive the action from this year’s Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International, thanks to the helmet cams donned by many competitors throughout the weekend. Our first helmet cam comes to us from the CCI2*-S division, where last year’s CCI1*-S champions Olivia Coolidge and her off-track Thoroughbred, Bold Impression (Bolductiv – Good Impressions), made the step up. Olivia and “Benny” steadily moved up the leaderboard throughout the weekend, eventually finishing in 13th overall as they aim for the CCI2*-L at Ocala International later this spring.

Enjoy the ride!

Carolina International
[Website] [Final Scores] [Live Stream Replay] [EN’s Coverage]

Farewell to Primmore’s Pride

By on Mar 21, 2023 9:30 am - 1,820 views

Pippa Funnell and Primmore’s Pride after their Kentucky victory in 2003. Photo by Michelle Dunn.

One of the great eventing horses of our time, Pippa Funnell’s Primmore’s Pride was put to sleep on Monday at the age of 30.

Eventing enthusiasts likely know well the name Primmore’s Pride; a true-blue event horse that lived for the long-format days, “Kiri” found much success at the pinnacle of the sport. Perhaps best known to the eventing public as the bookend winner of Pippa’s Rolex Grand Slam, the majority Thoroughbred gelding bred by Joanna and Roger Day won both the 2003 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event as well as the 2003 Burghley Horse Trials. He was helped along by stablemate Supreme Rock, who won Badminton Horse Trials in 2003 to help secure the Grand Slam for Pippa.

It wasn’t only the Grand Slam that earned Primmore’s Pride his due. He showed early success as a young horse, finishing first in the prestigious Burghley Young Event Horse prize as a five-year-old and going on to top that with a win as a seven-year-old in the Young Horse Breeding World Championships at Le Lion d’Anger. In his debut at the now-five-star level, Primmore’s Pride was sixth at Burghley, following that up with a win as a ten-year-old at Kentucky. Pippa and Kiri’s first shot at the Olympics together came in 2004 when they were named to the British team for Athens. They’d make good on their success to date, finishing third individually and earning a team silver medal.

Pippa Funnell and Primmore’s Pride. Photo by Michelle Dunn.

As one final marker of definitive success and Breyer horse status, Primmore’s Pride picked up one final five-star win at the only major event he’d not won yet: the 2005 Badminton Horse Trials.

“I will be forever grateful to [owners] Denise and Roger Lincoln for giving me the opportunity to produce and compete a horse with such incredible ability,” Pippa wrote on social media. “Pippa Woodall for looking after him with such great care during his retirement, thank you. He gave me some momentous life changing victories such as winning two legs of The Rolex Grandslam plus two medals in Athens…I will never have another horse that will score 3 x 10’s [sic] for an extended trot like you did at the Games. You were incredible, despite being ever so slightly arrogant.”

The first year I attended the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, I kept my program. I’d attended as many autograph signings as I could and tucked it away for posterity down the road. While writing this tribute, I went back into my bedroom and found the program, acting on a memory that I’d been lucky enough to make the year Pippa and Kiri won the first leg of the Grand Slam my “eventing debut”.

Photo by Sally Spickard.

So here’s to the legends like Primmore’s Pride: the ones you remember long after they’ve galloped past you, the ones who make you feel a little silly because they make you want to take on the biggest courses in the world — if only you had a horse just like that. We won’t soon forget the endless memories, and our condolences go out to Pippa and all who knew and loved Kiri.

Fox-Pitt Partner Oratorio Passes Away at Lincolnshire

By on Mar 20, 2023 12:52 pm - 40,732 views

William Fox-Pitt and Oratorio II. Photo by Shelby Allen.

We are deeply saddened to report today that William Fox-Pitt’s 5* partner, Oratorio (Oslo Biats – Cinnamon Brulee), suffered a heart attack between fences while competing in the Open Intermediate division at Lincolnshire this weekend. The gelding, known as “Rio” around the barn, was 14.

William wrote the following statement, which was shared by longtime head groom and yard manager Jackie Potts:

“After a rapid turnaround with the lorry on Saturday, we picked up Alex VT to help with the driving, and we picked up the three Advanced horses. We were very lucky to be staying overnight with Piggy [March], sadly we arrived rather late but the stables were all ready for us which was very spoiling. We had another pretty early start to get up for Lincoln.

Oratorio got the day off to a brilliant start in the dressage with a score of 23, he felt so established and relaxed, even though it was an OI I was quite excited. He jumped a very respectable show jumping round with one pole down.

The cross country turned the day into a tragedy. He flew the first part of the cross country course, feeling amazing and making it all seemless. But then the worst happened; we were galloping towards the last fence and he collapsed and died from a heart attack.

There is no easy way of saying this but it was out of nowhere, he was one minute feeling fantastic and next minute gone, and I have to take consolation from the fact that he did not suffer, there was no indication that anything was untoward and we all have to believe that, with any animal there is always uncertainty.

My devastation extends to the whole Oratorio team who have supported him for so long, and believed in him. We were all very excited about Badminton 2023, and he had really felt like an established mature 5* event horse.

The Lincoln team dealt with the nightmare brilliantly, they were very professional and efficient and I am very grateful for all their support.

My team were brilliant too, and much as we would have preferred not to, we had to continue with the day to qualify the horses for the season ahead.”

William Fox-Pitt and Oratorio II. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Bred by Cozmo Jenks, Oratorio was the offspring of one of William’s 5* winners, 2011 Pau champion Oslo. He began his international eventing career under the tutelage of fellow Brit Laura Collett before transferring to William’s string ahead of the 2017 season. William would then produce the gelding up to his 5* debut at Badminton in 2019, where he finished 13th overall. He also finished in the top-30 at Pau that same year. In 2022, William and Oratorio finished 14th at Badminton. He was owned and loved by the Oratorio Syndicate, and will be immensely missed.

Please join us in sending condolences and comfort to the Fox-Pitt team.

#ICYMI: Watch Will Coleman’s Leading Dressage Test in Yanmar America CCI4*-S at Carolina

By on Mar 17, 2023 9:30 am - 203 views

You’ve probably heard rumblings of a 19.4 scored at the Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International on Thursday in the headlining Yanmar America CCI4*-S division. This score was earned by Will Coleman and Hyperion Stud LLC’s Chin Tonic HS, who save one bobble in the flying change work displayed a masterful show of harmony and performance to take the early lead.

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Will they retain their lead after show jumping today? Be sure to tune in live all day — the CCI4*-S division will begin show jumping at 1:50 p.m., and Will will jump with Chin Tonic HS at 2:54 p.m. EST — on Horse & Country. You’ll need an H&C+ subscription (you can save 15% off an annual subscription here using code EVENTINGNATION15 – the code is case-sensitive – this weekend only!), or you can also purchase a one-time viewing pass for this event for $19.99. Click here to access the live stream.

Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International: [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Ride Times] [Order of Go] [Live Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage] [EN’s Form Guide] [Volunteer]

Thursday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: America Runs on Duncan (and Helmet Cams)

By on Mar 16, 2023 2:00 pm - 313 views

I love listening to a helmet cam’s audio almost as much as I love watching the video, and this one from Amanda Cousins at Southern Pines last weekend is worth turning the volume up for! Listen and watch as Amanda navigates Jessica Goldberg’s America Runs on Duncan (which may also win my favorite name of the year) to a win in the Prelim Rider division. Make sure to watch until the end for the celebration. Many congrats, Amanda and Duncan!

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Will Coleman in Early Command of SRF Carolina International CCI4*-S

By on Mar 16, 2023 12:49 pm - 1,226 views

Will Coleman and Off the Record. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We’re blessed with a lovely first day of competition here at the 2023 Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International, with the FEI divisions getting underway with their first phase.

While the 2022 winning horse, Dondante, is not here to defend his title this weekend, Will Coleman nonetheless finds himself positioned well to take a third win and second consecutive trophy in the Yanmar America CCI4*-S division, taking the early lead with the Off the Record Syndicate’s Off the Record (VDL Arkansas – Drumagoland Bay). The pair earned a flashing 22.1 from the judging panel of Robert Stevenson and Andrew Bennie. Judging from B, Andrew Bennie awarded Will and “Timmy” two 9s: one for the final flying change and one for the collective mark for harmony. The score of 22.1 is just a tick off of this horse’s personal best at the level; he scored a 21.9 at Great Meadow’s 4*-S in 2020 previously.

Doug Payne and Starr Witness. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Second in the morning session and initially taking charge of the 4*-S are Doug Payne and Starr Witness (Chello III VDL – Carmen), owned by Laurie McRee, Catherine Winter, and Doug and Jessica Payne. Despite being early on in the going and displaying some exuberance, Doug and the “Ginja Ninja” earned a 24.6 for their efforts and will be in second ahead of the afternoon’s rides.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Quicksilver. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Liz Halliday-Sharp delivered a stellar test aboard the Monster Partnership’s Cooley Quicksilver (Womanizer – Kylemore Crystal), earning a 26.1 from the judges to sit third ahead of the lunch break.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Nutcracker. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Looking to the 3*-S and 2*-S divisions, taking the early leads are Liz Halliday-Sharp aboard the Nutcracker Syndicate’s Cooley Nutcracker (Tolant R – Ballyshan Cleopatra), formerly ridden by French rider Astier Nicolas before joining her string after the 2021 season. This pair earned a 26.7 for the Cordelia Family Foundation CCI3*-S lead, starting their season with some leg-up events after finishing the 2022 season at the Advanced level.

In the Breezeway Sporthorse and Diagnostic Clinic and Friendship Mobile Veterinary Imaging and Sports Medicine CCI2*-S division, Australia’s Dom Schramm and the Quadrocana Syndicate’s Quadrocana (Quadrofino – Rocana II) earned a personal best of 22.7 to take the lead in the morning session. A fun fact, in case the name Quadrocana sounds somewhat familiar, the mare’s damsire, Ituango xx, is the sire of Michael Jung’s fischerRocana FST.

We’ll be back underway after lunch at 1:00 p.m. EST and as always you can follow along live with the action on Horse & Country’s live stream. You’ll need an H&C+ subscription (you can save 15% off an annual subscription here using code EVENTINGNATION15 – the code is case-sensitive – this weekend only!), or you can also purchase a one-time viewing pass for this event for $19.99. Click here to access the live stream.

Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International: [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Ride Times] [Dressage Order of Go] [Live Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage] [EN’s Form Guide] [Volunteer]

Your Guide to the 2023 Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International

By on Mar 15, 2023 10:00 pm - 880 views

Doug Payne and Starr Witness. Photo by Brant Gamma Photography.

It’s officially here: the 2023 Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International, presented by Lumbee River EMC, kicks off today with a full slate of both national and FEI divisions riding their dressage tests. The headlining Yanmar America CCI4*-S — the first 4* on the 2023 FEI calendar — will begin this morning just before 9:30 a.m. EST.

All the FEI action and then some can be seen on Horse & Country’s live stream, available to H&C+ subscribers or for a one-time $19.99 purchase here. For the FEI division, all dressage will be completed on Thursday, followed by show jumping on Friday and cross country on Saturday.

Keep an eye on this page all week for the latest coverage from Carolina, where EN is pleased to provide the press experience for media members.

Need to study up on the competitors? Check out our Yanmar America 4*-S Form Guide here.

If you’re attending the event this weekend, be sure to check out the awesome trading cards the event has created with help from EquiRatings — they’ll be available in each competitor packet, at each vendor village tent, and in the Carolina Club!

 

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There is also a full slate of family and spectator-friendly activities happening all week — check out the full schedule here.

EN’s Coverage

Will Coleman in Early Command of SRF Carolina International CCI4*-S
Meet the Horses and Riders of the 2023 Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International 4*-S, presented by Yanmar America

Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International: [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Ride Times] [Dressage Order of Go] [Live Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage] [EN’s Form Guide] [Volunteer]

Tuesday Videos: Understanding the Barn Sour Horse

By on Mar 14, 2023 3:00 pm - 388 views

Chelsea Canedy and Little Einstein. Photo by Sally Spickard.

There is something so frustrating about having a barn sour horse. I can still distinctly remember trying to hack my horse from my farm to literally across the street to ride at Peter Gray’s, only to spend 30 minutes spinning and hanging on for dear life while my horse decided I was, without a doubt, riding him toward his death. I ended the ride feeling dejected and disappointed, unable to figure out the right tools to end on a good note.

Luckily, if you’re in my situation now, there are an infinite amount of resources available to help navigate these situations. And as stressful as they are for us as the riders, they can be infinitely more so for our horses.

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting eventer and horsemanship pro Chelsea Canedy in the past, and I’ve really come to appreciate her clear communication techniques. In a recent Equestrian Masterclass with Noelle Floyd, Chelsea talks about how to manage barn sour horses. These two short videos provide a few of the tips she teaches in her Masterclass, and they’re well worth checking out!

Now excuse me while I invent a time machine so I can make it over to Peter’s, finally!

A ‘Weekend in the Life’ with Cathy Wieschhoff

By on Mar 13, 2023 1:30 pm - 766 views

It’s always so interesting to get a peek behind the scenes at an event. While we focus primarily on the horses and riders competing each weekend, we can always shine more light on those who make these events run smoothly. There is much pre-work done to prepare a venue for an event, whether it’s a major 4* or a local horse trial.

Cathy Wieschhoff was the course designer for the 2* at Chattahoochee Hills at Bouckaert Farm this weekend, and as is her nature she welcomed us along with her with a series of short, informative videos as she completed her tasks ahead of competition. I thought it would be interesting to share these videos with our readers for some additional insights into what goes into putting on an event.

You can give Cathy a follow on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube to keep up with her videos — she’s a wealth of knowledge, and we should all be so lucky to learn from someone with her depth of experience!

All videos used in this article are from Instagram — if the embedded videos below do not display in your browser, please click here.

Checking in on arrival at the venue (with a special stowaway on the golf cart!):

A few notes on the importance of cross country fence decoration:

Next up, filling out forms for the FEI — in case you thought course designing got you out of paperwork!

Followed by a lovely evening spent on the dock…

Next up — why we video some fences on FEI cross country:

And that’s a wrap! But not before a quick stop in Tennessee to finalize courses for River Glen. No rest for the weary (or the highly caffienated!).

Many thanks to Cathy for taking us along with her in her travels. If you see her around at an event, be sure to say hi and to thank her for all her dedication to the sport.

Weekend Winners: Chattahoochee Hills, SAzEA, Southern Pines, Full Gallop

By on Mar 13, 2023 11:30 am - 660 views

I think one of the best parts of writing the Weekend Winners column is reading all of your posts and celebrating your wins. From returning to eventing after a few years away, to moving up a level, to overcoming nerves and bad weather, you are all an inspiration! Keep those posts coming. It’s not so much about the blue ribbons for me — it’s about the personal sense of achievement we get from our relationships with our horses. That’s what keeps me coming back, and I’m sure the same applies to you.

Chattahoochee Hills H.T. (Fairburn, GA): [Website] [Scoring]

Advanced: Leslie Law and Voltaire de Tre (37.7)
CCI3*-S: Jenny Caras and Trendy Fernhill (28.5)
CCI2*-S: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Maybach (20.9)
Intermediate Rider: Solomon Edwards and Graffique (45.6)
Open Intermediate: Buck Davidson and DHI Showman (41.2)
Open Preliminary: Allie Knowles and Business Class (26.6)
Preliminary Rider: Eileen Galoostian and Ardeo Lord Lancelot (34.3)
Modified Rider: Sydney Schultz and Excel Star Saphira (30.3)
Open Modified: Breeana Robinette and Cape Kimberly (19.5)
Open Training: Caroline Martin and Cascadella 8 (27.5)
Training Rider: Mindy Cady and Fit for Fun RAA (26.1)
Novice Rider: Claire Gamlin and Alohomora (33.6)
Open Novice: Madison Temkin and Fernhill Bertus (26.7)
Beginner Novice Rider: Celia White and To Infinity and Beyond DASH (27.9)
Open Beginner Novice: Laura Vello and Felix (27.7)

SAzEA Spring H.T. (Tucson, AZ) : [Website] [Final Scores]

Open Preliminary: Heather Drager and Winnsome (41.7)
Training Rider: Jennifer Buchanan and Red Rox (40.2)
Open Training: Paige Dinnie and Fine Dutch Chocolate (29.2)
Open Novice: Amanda Vines and Redfield Lotte (27.9)
Novice Rider A: Jennifer Row and Bella Vida GWF (26.7)
Novice Rider B: Heather Bogdan and Just Boo (35.1)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider: David Timchak and Over Easy (29.4)
Open Beginner Novice: Deirdre Orcelletto and Breeze By (30.9)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider: Amber McKain and Burton Hill (28.2)
Starter A: Olga Grunwaldt and Haymish (26.7)
Starter B: Hannah Venyige and Athena Overly Dramatic (31.7)
Pre-Competition: Briley Ellis and Sven (30.0)

Rayna took home the blue ribbon and we added another saddle pad to our collection 🤣. What a weekend. All of our homework…

Posted by Jennifer Row on Sunday, March 12, 2023

Southern Pines H.T. (Raeford, NC) : [Website] [Final Scores]

Advanced CT: Skyeler Voss and Argyle (38.8)
Intermediate CT: Jeff Beshear and Storm Is Due (43.9)
Open Preliminary: Annabelle Sprague and Da Vinci Code (27.1)
Preliminary CT: Sydney Elliott and ChinTonic 3 (27.5)
Preliminary Rider: Amanda Cousins and American Runs on Duncan (44.9)
Modified Rider: Mary Nofzinger Clare and Golden King (27.9)
Open Modified: Will Faudree and Fastidious (28.1)
Open Training: Linden Wiesman and Fifth Ace (21.9)
Training CT: Jeanne Hobbs and Guiness (33.3)
Training Rider A: Cindi Moravec and Holloway (30.2)
Training Rider B: Sarah Murawski and Templewood (31.9)
Training Rider Jr.: Carlin Keefe and Rosalina (27.6)
Novice CT: Karen Berger and Fiona (48.1)
Novice Rider A: Abigail McGowan and Mystic Serenade (34.7)
Novice Rider B: Cynthia Holbrook and Sweet Peak (35.9)
Novice Rider C: Devon Lane Champlain and Champagne Event (30.8)
Novice Rider Jr.: Kendal Fansler and Curioso (23.9)
Open Novice A: Laura Hilsman Sparks and GTB Felix Felicis (22.9)
Open Novice B: Martin Douzant and BSF Frame Charleston (23.6)
Beginner Novice CT: Shaina Gilger and Casanova (36.3)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Phyllis Hardgrove and Cooley Castle (30.4)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Jaime Fitzpatrick and Osaka (30.8)
Beginner Novice Rider Jr.: Madeline DeMeirsman and Digby (28.8)
Open Beginner Novice: Will Faudree and Pfzar HP (22.8)
Starter: Lindsey Bullard and Hidden Springs One and Only (30.3)

Hitching Post Farm goes south to Southern Pines – and picks up some ribbons along the way.
Sarah Murawski photo.

Full Gallop Farm March I H.T. (Aiken, SC) : [Website]

Sunday Video: Just Another Glamourdale Freestyle

By on Mar 12, 2023 1:30 pm - 447 views

We’re big fans of Great Britain’s Charlotte Fry and her exceptional KWPN stallion, Glamourdale (Lord Leatherdale – Thuja), and they’ve just added another big win to their impressive collection en route to this spring’s FEI World Cup Finals in Omaha, NE. The World Championship pair secured a win in the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Freestyle at the Dutch Masters – Indoor Brabant. This was the final leg of the Western European League.

Charlotte has yet to formally commit to competing in Omaha — but we sure hope to see her and her horse of a lifetime competing stateside next month! Tickets for the FEI World Cup Finals are on sale here.

Gallery: Leslie Law and Voltaire de Tre Top $10k Chattahoochee Hills Advanced at Bouckaert Farm

By on Mar 12, 2023 10:00 am - 1,371 views

Leslie Law and Voltaire de Tre take the Advanced victory. Photo by Hunter Crawley for Liz Crawley Photography.

Sunday brought the news that cross country at Chattahoochee Hills at Bouckaert Farm would be canceled for the day due to inclement weather, but Saturday’s action revealed the winners of the $10,000 Advanced offering at the popular Fairburn, GA spring prep. The prize money comes from a pot of $35,000 offered during the spring calendar at the venue, which will also host a $25,000 Advanced/Intermediate, aimed at riders prepping for Kentucky, at the end of March.

As to be anticipated this time of year, time penalties were par for the course on yesterday’s cross country, but 5* pair Leslie Law and Tre Book’s Voltaire de Tre (Gentleman IV – Jasmina du Fresne) booked the quickest turn of foot to move up and take the win after starting the weekend tied for ninth.

Hannah Sue Hollberg and Capitol HIM. Photo by Liz Crawley Photography.

Hannah Sue Hollberg and Christa Schmidt’s Capitol HIM (Con Air 7 – O-Heraldika) moved up into second after sitting tenth following show jumping. Top Young Rider in USEF 3*-L National Championship Cassie Sanger picked up third with her own Fernhill Zoro (Verdi – Oronia 2), a strong showing in the pair’s third Advanced competition.

Cassie Sanger and Fernhill Zoro. Photo by Jennifer Crawley for Liz Crawley Photography.

Many thanks to the Liz Crawley Photography team for providing this gallery of the top 10 in the Advanced division!

Here’s a look at the results for divisions that completed on Saturday — stay tuned for Monday’s Weekend Winners column for more from Bouckaert Farm!

CCI3*-S: Jenny Caras and Trendy Fernhill (28.5)
CCI2*-S: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Maybach (20.9)
Intermediate Rider: Solomon Edwards and Graffique (45.6)
Open Intermediate: Buck Davidson and DHI Showman (41.2)

Chattahoochee Hills H.T. at Bouckaert Farm (Fairburn, GA): [Website] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Fully Recovered after Freak Injury, Cornelia Dorr’s Heart Horse is Back At It

By on Mar 11, 2023 10:00 am - 4,919 views

Cornelia Dorr and Sir Patico MH. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

In 2020, Cornelia Dorr was busy gearing up for what would have been her debut at the 5* level. Having run around the tough English 4*-L at Blenheim the previous fall, she now felt she and her “heart horse”, the splashily-colored Sir Patico MH (Queen’s Lite xx – Lite the Fuse) were ready for the next step: the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event. Everything was on track — until it wasn’t.

First, the event was canceled due to the growing Covid-19 pandemic. Opting to let “Hugo” down from his 5*-fit state, Cornelia brought the paint Zweibrucker gelding home to Arkansas for some time off. Then, Hugo began to show signs of lameness, and it was later discovered that he had a hind suspensory injury that would require surgery. With a successful surgery and rehab, though, it was thought that he’d be back and sound enough to continue his competitive career.

What Cornelia wasn’t prepared for was for her horse of a lifetime to break his leg while waking up from the anesthesia.

“It was one of those things where he put a leg out awkwardly and put too much pressure on it,” Cornelia, who was away teaching a clinic during the surgery, remembers. To make matters worse, one of the bone fragments from the break had gone into the tendon. Once the injury was identified, several options were discussed, including euthanasia. In the end, it was concluded that Hugo could recover from the injury, with at least a year of stall rest, to eventually be pasture sound.

Cornelia Dorr and Sir Patico MH — reunited at last. Photo by JJ Sillman.

“I listened to my gut,” Cornelia says. “This happened in September, and I think he was in a stall until February. And he was just so depressed. He loves being outside, so I went and bought a twelve-by-twelve enclosure so he could be out in the sun every day. I did x-rays every two weeks, and as soon as we got the thumbs up, I turned him out.”

Here Cornelia credits #supergroom Katie Strickland for her work caring for and rehabbing her horse. “Katie and her mom took him to their place in Georgia, where he stayed for the last two years. They did a wonderful job, and so did their vet. I never worried about him.”

In her mind, the ending to Hugo’s story had been different than she thought, but better than it could have been. “The vets told me he’d never canter again, and to me I was just happy to see him thriving, even if it wasn’t with me.”

But then, Cornelia received a call from Katie’s mother, Allina Bell. Hugo didn’t really want to be retired, she felt. At 75 years old, she’d been hacking him out, but he was getting increasingly ‘sassy”‘ What the heck, Cornelia thought, as she got in her truck and hauled up to get him. The x-rays and follow-ups had been more positive than the veterinarians had originally forecasted, and Hugo was as sound as he’d been before his suspensory injury.

A few days later, Cornelia tacked her horse up and jumped her first jumps with him in more than two years.

“He didn’t miss a beat,” she says. “It was amazing. He just went around on a loopy rein.”

Cornelia says she doesn’t have any specific plans for Hugo now that he’s back and happier than ever, though she did borrow him for this winter’s USEF Developing Rider Training Sessions with Leslie Law. She also handed the reins over to her working student, Emily Stamper, to do some lower level competitions in Florida. For her, the biggest reward is simply having her friend back.

“I got him when I was turning fourteen,” Cornelia reminisces. “He was there for so many major life events. He was my security blanket when I went to school. And he was just family. I didn’t get serious about eventing until I was a sophomore in high school, and he was there with me every step of the way.”

Cornelia gives her best pal some love. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Cornelia’s now been able to take what she learned from Hugo and apply it to her up-and-coming horses, including the talented and quirky Daytona Beach 8, who was tenth in her 5* debut at Burghley last fall.

“In hindsight, I’m not sure I appreciated it so much in the moment, but [Hugo is] such an individual and he doesn’t fit into any box, even down to his color,” she says. “And I think that I now appreciate that if a horse comes into my program, they’re very much an individual. I try to find the middle ground. I think that’s what’s made me successful with Daytona now. I allow the horse to be who they are and then capitalize on their strengths. That’s what he taught me.”

And for what it’s worth? Hugo has certainly not lost his competitive chops: he successfully returned to eventing this winter at Rocking Horse, where he won an Open Novice with Cornelia and finished eighth in a Training Rider division earlier in March with Emily in the irons.

“He’ll tell us what he wants to do, but he can do as much or as little as he wants,” Cornelia says. “As long as he’s happy and healthy, that’s the thing that matters most.”

This story is brought to you with support from World Equestrian Brands. For Cornelia, her Amerigo saddles are among her favorite items sourced from World Equestrian Brands, which carries top-end equipment from Vespucci, Sergio Grasso, Equilibrium, and Mattes, too. “I’ve never seen a saddle company that’s as versatile as [Amerigo], and every horse, Robin and the World Equestrian Brands team work hard to find the correct tree and fit for every horse,” Cornelia described. You can equip your equine athlete with the best by shopping at worldequestrianbrands.com.

Who Jumped It Best? Twin Rivers Open Intermediate Edition

By on Mar 8, 2023 3:32 pm - 1,296 views

Here we go — another fresh edition of Who Jumped It Best? is coming in hot from this past weekend’s Winter H.T. at Twin Rivers in Paso Robles, CA. You know the drill: cast your vote in the poll at the bottom of this article to support the rider you feel presents the best overall moment in time.

Catch up on more Twin Rivers news here.

Go Eventing!

Nicole Aden and Illustrator. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Taren Hoffos and Regalla. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Emilee Libby and Toska. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Lauren Billys Shady and Can Be Sweet. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Katherine Robinson and Teki to the Limit. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Marc Grandia and Campari FFF. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith and Kynan. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Grace Wechser and Raskadero. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tuesday Video: Don’t Miss Tonight’s Ride iQ Ask an Expert with EN’s Own Maggie Deatrick

By on Mar 7, 2023 3:30 pm - 124 views

Bookmark this! Each week, Ride iQ hosts a different expert from various walks of life in the equestrian industry for a live Q&A. This week, they’ll be joined by none other than EN’s own Maggie Deatrick. Maggie juggles all facets of her life as an amateur upper-level rider, mother, and engineer (and we sure do miss her writing here on EN, but she will forever be a part of the family!).

The live Q&A will kick off at 7 p.m. EST on the Ride iQ YouTube channel and social media. For anyone unable to attend live, the sessions are made available for replay and will also be pulled into the Ride iQ audio library for future consumption.

Jonelle Price is Coming to Ocala! How to Audit a Clinic to Benefit Team Canada

By on Mar 7, 2023 9:00 am - 600 views

Jonelle Price and Grappa Nera add another sterling accolade to the Price family’s roster. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Exciting news and a rare opportunity for you, EN! New Zealand Olympian and World Championships rider Jonelle Price is coming to the U.S. for a three-day Canadian High Performance Training Camp and a one-day open clinic. The Canadian training camp will focus on all three phases, and the open clinic on the 15th will focus on show jumping. The clinic will take place in two locations: March 12-13’s training camp as well as the open clinic on March 15 will be held at Kepferle Equestrian in Anthony, FL. The cross country portion of the training camp will be held at Will Coleman’s Okonokos in Ocala.

If you want to have a chance to audit this special opportunity, which was spearheaded in large part by Canadian Eventing Chef d’Equipe Rebecca Howard, you can purchase an auditing pass for $100 CDN ($73 USD). This auditing pass will give you admission to all three days of training camp as well as the open clinic. The open clinic is full at this time, but you can join the waitlist and/or purchase an auditing pass by emailing [email protected].

EN’s Amanda Chance will be covering a portion of the clinic — and if you’re interested in submitting a report of your own during the clinic, please let us know at [email protected].

Go Eventing!

#GoEventing at Twin Rivers: Just a Few Moody Cross Country Shots

By on Mar 6, 2023 1:30 pm - 669 views

Kaylawna Smith-Cook and Passepartout. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Twin Rivers in Paso Robles, CA celebrated a successful return to eventing after sustaining major damages from record-breaking rains and flooding in the area earlier this year. Thanks to Sherry Stewart for sending in some moody shots from what was still a wet weekend in California — but it sure made for some epic photos!

James Alliston and Karma. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith and Elliot V. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

We saw several West Coast-based heavy hitters out in action, including James Alliston, Lauren Billys Shady and Tamie Smith, as well as some rising stars to keep an eye on throughout the remainder of the season.

Lauren Billys Shady and Can Be Sweet. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Amanda Boyce and Carter. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Bec Braitling and Caravaggio. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

The facility, owned by the Baxter family, will host dressage and hunter/jumper shows over the next few weeks and will next host a recognized event in April. Visit the Twin Rivers website for more information and a full competition calendar.

Elsa Warble and FE Unlimited. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith and Kynan. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Helen Alliston and Flinterro Z. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Twin Rivers Winter H.T. (Paso Robles, CA): [Website] [Final Scores]

Weekend Winners: Full Gallop, Rocking Horse, Sporting Days, Twin Rivers

By on Mar 6, 2023 11:30 am - 455 views

We’re kicking off today’s Weekend Winners with a special shout to all who helped get Twin Rivers Ranch back into tip-top shape following massive flooding from California’s superstorms earlier this year. Between donations made via a GoFundMe to on the ground assistance getting the grounds repaired, massive efforts were made and this weekend’s event went off beautifully. Well done to all — what an effort, and what a testament to our eventing community.

$50,000 Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field (Aiken, SC): [Website] [Tickets] [Live Stream Replay] [ Final Scores] [Volunteer] [EN’s Coverage]

Full Gallop Farm March Wednesday H.T. (Aiken, SC): [Website], [Final Scores]

Preliminary: Matthew Ulmer and Kings Carter (43.4)
Preliminary/Training: Tracey Ann Asti Bienemann and Venezuelan River (30.1)
Training: Madison Manley and NDR’s Fex (27.8)
Training/Novice: Nadia Novik and Dartfield’s One (43.4)
Novice A: Kate Brown and Kokoleka (31.1)
Novice B: Rebecca Mahaffey and What the Blip (30.3)
Beginner Novice A: Jennifer Fox and Galloway (27.7)
Beginner Novice B: Lauren Lindsay and FGF Giacokhan (27.7)
Starter A: Anna North and R’Whispers (25.3)
Starter B: Maria Elizabeth Novotny and Kayla’s Tune (31.7)

Rocking Horse Winter III H.T (Altoona, FL): [Website] [Final Scores]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Caitlin O’Roark and What The Devil (55.1)
Intermediate Rider: Olivia Miller and Cooley Starstruck (45.3)
Open Intermediate A: Alyssa Phillips and Cornelius Bo (30.7)
Open Intermediate B: Dani Sussman and Jos Bravio (33.7)
Open Intermediate One Day: Selena O’Hanlon and M S Thunderbolt (32.8)
Open Preliminary A: Guillermo De Campo Marambio and Castigado (28.2)
Open Preliminary B: Guillermo De Campo Marambio and Anahuac SDC (28.5)
Open Preliminary One Day: Melissa Boutin and Obeah Dancer GS (34.7)
Open Preliminary One Day: Lexi Scovil and Keep Calm (32.4)
Preliminary Horse: Megan Edwards and Global Dynasty (34.1)
Preliminary Rider: Lizzie Hoff and HSH Limited Edition (27.4)
Modified Rider A: Katherine Maroko and Rosie’s Little Miss Liberty (31.6)
Modified Rider B: Devon Tresan and Zavallo (26.7)
Open Modified A: William Ward III and Phantom of the Opera (29.5)
Open Modified B: Conor Rollins and Cavalier Monte Carla (30.7)
Open Modified C: Liz Lund and Franklin Delano CF (28.6)
Jr. Training Rider: Macy Hale and Ardeo Audacity (28.6)
Open Training A: Mia Farley and Redfield Jim (25.2)
Open Training B: Amy Ehteridge and Royal Lufttanzer (24.5)
Open Training C: Katie Malensek and FE Cheerio (24.1)
Sr. Training Rider A: Chris Kawcak and Amelie (33.9)
Sr. Training Rider B: Nancy Lee and PHF Wind Me Up (34.3)
Training Horse A: Dani Sussman and Baral Triumph (29.2)
Training Horse B: Meghan O’Donoghue and Global Eros (27.9)
Jr. Novice Rider: Jaeli Uselding and My Fair Prince (30.8)
Novice Horse A: Gabby Dickerson and Frijole (27.5)
Novice Horse B: Lynn Symansky and DHI Kickodieza (28.3)
Novice Horse C: Declan Bast and FE City Boy (21.1)
Open Novice A: Alexandra du Celliee Muller and HH Zephyr (27.6)
Open Novice B: Melanie Rousseau and Cabriolet 18 (20.0)
Open Novice C: Sinead Maynard and Lightning V/Z (26.8)
Sr. Novice Rider A: Sam Hellerman and Roheryn (31.7)
Sr. Novice Rider B: April Hays and Anteros HSH (29.7)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Laura Carlson and Kilkelly See The Difference (28.1)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Coco Fiorita and Oskar (28.8)
Open Beginner Novice A: Cindy Rawson and Truly Stellar (28.8)
Open Beginner Novice B: Michael Nolan and Jalisca (26.6)

Sporting Days Farm March H.T. II (Aiken, SC): [Website] [Final Scores]

Intermediate CT: Kathleen Bertuna and Excel Star Harry (39.0)
Open Preliminary: Arden Foster Wildasin and Apogee (29.8)
Preliminary Horse: Mary Bess Davis and Monius (37.3)
Preliminary Rider: Jax Maxian and Milo Diamond (33.8)
Open Training: Ryan Wood and Fernhill Domino (24.3)
Preliminary/Training: Julia Spatt and Uptown Funk (33.4)
Training Horse: Danielle Downing and Caribe PCH (31.4)
Training Rider A: Madeline Cracknell and Wild Affair (33.6)
Training Rider B: Lisa Edinger and Quinto Quest (28.3)
Novice Rider A: Avery Cascarino and Excel Star Quidam’s Cavalier (27.2)
Novice Rider B: Samantha Schwartz and Rumble Fish (25.8)
Open Novice A: Alexander Conrad and FE Lions Darco (26.7)
Open Novice B: Ryan Wood and Kiltubrid Harley (21.7)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Tiffany Stewart and Crimson Clover (25.6)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Kristina Keilty and Best of Broadway (35.3)
Open Beginner Novice A: Natiel McKim and Windsor (29.1)
Open Beginner Novice B: Alison Eastman-Lawler and Sara Bella (28.4)
Starter A: Bryce Jungling and In Living Color (30.7)
Starter B: Arabelle Armstrong and Requiem In Color (31.3)

Twin Rivers Winter H.T. (Paso Robles, CA): [Website] [Final Scores]

Advanced: Tamie Smith and Elliot V (36.4)
Open Intermediate: Tamie Smith and Kynan (33.8)
Open Preliminary: Helen Alliston and Flinterro Z (26.6)
Preliminary Rider: Elsa Warble and FE Unlimited (28.8)
Open Modified: Molly Duda and Carlingfords Hes a Clover (25.3)
Jr. Training Rider: Fiona Holland and Joshua Tree (25.6)
Open Training: Tommy Greengard and Cooley Sligo (28.3)
Sr. Training Rider: Teresa Harcourt and Csongor (29.2)
Training Amateur: Jessica Jones and Jameson (30.6)
Jr. Novice Rider: Holly Fosmark and When Starz Align (29.2)
Novice Amateur: Taylor Miles and RLE Cappuccino (26.1)
Open Novice: Bec Braitling and Made by Leontine EB (26.1)
Sr. Novice Rider: Alexandra Naeve and Soaring Bird (30.0)
Beginner Novice Rider: Kelly Estes and Waltz With Me (25.3)
Open Beginner Novice: Lauren Billys Shady and Mister Cooley (30.6)
Starter: Helen Alliston and Faraó

#ICYMI: Relive Three Leading Rounds + How to Watch the Grand-Prix Eventing Replay

By on Mar 5, 2023 10:15 am - 472 views

I always love to go back and watch replays of events after I get home. As much as being there in person is irreplaceable, I still enjoy seeing the complete rides or anyone I may have missed while running around an event.

I collected a few highlight rounds for your viewing pleasure, but if you’re like me and would rather watch the whole event back, you can do so over on Horse & Country here (subscription required).

Liz Halliday-Sharp Takes the 2023 Grand-Prix Eventing Win

Relive Liz Halliday-Sharp – HS Eventing's winning cross country round at the 2023 Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce's Field, thanks to this replay from Horse & Country TV!

Posted by Eventing Nation on Sunday, March 5, 2023

Preview the $50,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Festival Cross Country Course

By on Mar 4, 2023 9:00 am - 766 views

The final fence, the Aiken Horse Park keyhole. Photo by Shelby Allen.

The 2023 $50,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor Harris Insurance Services is very much: same jumps, new vibe. With an entirely brand new area to run through, the Capt. Mark Phillips-designed track takes a new shape this year, while still utilizing the gorgeous Eric Bull-built cross country fences, each of which give a nod to the local area.

Take a peek at the CrossCountryApp fence-by-fence preview below (or click here to view in your browser).

The optimum time for the course is 4 minutes, 16 seconds. Historically, time isn’t easy to grab here — not surprising considering the go-kart track nature here. Riders will double back on several jumps, jumping in and out of five different arenas. The addition of a new arena to use this year reduces the amount of galloping on turf, which means the turns also come up that much quicker. Riders will need to be thinking on their feet if they want to have a shot at the time, saving time where they can but also making sure to give their horses enough time to reach each question.

Photo by Shelby Allen.

Photo by Shelby Allen.

Several related distance questions are placed around the course, including an exciting-looking bounce at 11 and 12 (there is an option, and the elements are numbered separately), as well as a severe angle and one stride between the two Bruce’s Field brushes. Riders also have the option to jump fence 6, the only fence located out on the turf, in either direction as they turn around and head back toward the arenas.

Fence 6, the Savannah River Site, can be jumped in either direction as it’s used as a change of direction point. Photo by Shelby Allen.

A total of 23 combinations will move forward to tomorrow’s cross country following Friday’s show jumping that saw seven pairs opted to withdraw and three pairs given Compulsory Retirements for having five or more rails down.

This fence will have tennis balls filling the base! Eyes up, everyone! Photo by Shelby Allen.

Cross country begins at 12:30 p.m. EST, and will be run in reverse order of standing to lead to an exciting event finish. You can view the order of go here. As always, H&C+ will carry the live stream — you can subscribe or purchase a one-time pass to watch this event here. Abby Powell will also be running live updates during cross country right here on EN.

GPE at Bruce’s Field: GPE Website, Entry List, Ride Times, Live Scores, Team Scores, XC Map, XC Order of Go, Facility Map, H&C+ Livestream, Ride for Charity Public Vote, EN’s Coverage

Your Guide to the 2023 $50,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce’s Field

By on Mar 2, 2023 1:05 am - 2,689 views

Boyd Martin and Fedarman B en route to the 2022 win. Photo by Christine Quinn Photography.

It’s nearly time to get this 2023 season kicked off in earnest! While we’ve been in the thick of late-winter competitions already, the $50,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor Harris Insurance Services, seems to signify the buzz that accompanies the ramp-up of each eventing season.

Returning for the fifth year in 2023, the Grand-Prix Eventing festival features a competitive roster of horses and riders and an experience fit for both new and old eventing fans.

Eventing Nation is pleased to provide the media experience for this year’s Grand-Prix Eventing, and if you’re following along with us you’ll want to keep this article bookmarked as your hub of information. We’ll keep this page updated with links all weekend. For those unable to join us in Aiken, our friends at Horse & Country will provide a livestream of all three phases. Abby Powell will also be providing live updates for cross country on Saturday afternoon.

Information Links:

GPE Website

Entry List

Dressage Order of Go

Ride Times

Live Scores

Facility Map

H&C+ Livestream

Ride for Charity Public Vote

The Entries

Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Woods Baughman and C’est la Vie 135
15-year-old Hanoverian gelding (Contendro I – Anette, by Aarking xx)
Owned by Kim, James, and Woods Baughman

A Lexington, KY native, Woods Baughman packed his bags and went off to work for 5* rider Sharon White at the beginning of his upper-level eventing career. In the process, he found his current 5* partner, C’est la Vie 135 (“Contendro” in the barn), in Germany via Dirk Schrade. Woods recently struck out on his own to carve out a path as a budding professional. While Woods and Contendro have had to work hard at finding the rideability they need to communicate well enough to stay competitive at the 5* level, this pair is certainly one to watch as a potential to impress this weekend. If Woods can adjust his horse’s massive stride on Capt. Mark Phillips’ tight track on Saturday, their dressage marks may keep them in contention for some of the $50,000 prize pot. This pair was most recently sixth in the Advanced at Rocking Horse in early February.

Amanda Beale Clement and Carlson 119. Photo by Abby Powell.

Amanda Beale Clement and Carlson 119
13-year-old Brandenburg gelding (Camarque 3 – Palma, by Phantomic xx)
Owned by the Get Ready Syndicate

Amanda Beale Clement’s international eventing career began when she was 15, and she’s collected several Young Rider accolades along the way to becoming an Advanced rider. Carlson 119 has become a horse on which Amanda can pin her aspirations, becoming her second 4* horse and journeying with her to major events such as Morven Park’s 4*-L, and the USEF National 3*-L Championship at Maryland 5 Star. This pair will be out for redemption at Grand-Prix Eventing this year, having parted ways at the 2022 event.

Buck Davidson and Carlevo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Buck Davidson and Carlevo
16-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Eurocommerce Caresino – Ramatuelle, by Levernois)
Owned by Katherine O’Brien

Carlevo is another horse on the entry list sourced through Germany’s Dirk Schrade, coming to Buck Davidson in time for the 2015 season having done some 2* and 3*-level eventing. Since then, he’s become a stalwart campaigner for Buck, and the pair most recently finished 12th at the 2022 Maryland 5 Star. They were also fifth at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event in 2022. This is a pair who are well capable of putting down a competitive dressage mark, and if they can get up on the time come Saturday they could be one to threaten the top of the leaderboard and take home a chunk of the prize money.

Buck Davidson and Erroll Gobey. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Buck Davidson and Erroll Gobey
13-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Cassini II – Ulla II, by Contender)
Owned by Cassie Segal, Lisa Darden and Natalie Sandler

Erroll Gobey has spent the vast majority of his FEI career under the tutelage of the very experienced Buck Davidson, who’s taken the gelding up from his first now-3* level events and eventually making his 5* debut in 2021 at Kentucky. Though he’s yet to notch his first 5* completion, he’s been a solid citizen for Buck in recent years, most recently finishing 10th at the Morven Park 4*-L last October. He also picked up a handy win in the Advanced at Rocking Horse in February. The tight, twisting track with a tough-to-beat time may prove challenging for this pair to stay competitive, but luckily Gobey’s got a good jockey in the irons who knows exactly how to put the pedal to the metal to give it all he’s got.

Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic
9-year-old Anglo-European gelding (Cassander C – Khadija des Hayettes, by Banboula du Thot)
Owned by rider

This weekend presents a big test for one of the youngest horses in the Grand-Prix Eventing field. Imperio Magic has been carefully produced by Georgia-based Mary Bess Davis of Triple Creek Eventing, and he’s got an impeccable cross country record to show for this care. Mary Bess and Imperio Magic moved up to the Advanced/4* level in 2022, not once finishing outside of the top four in three starts at the level. This weekend will likely be a “teaching” weekend for this pair, who will tackle the 5* dressage test as well as a different type of cross country than they’re accustomed to seeing. However, don’t count this pair out as ones who could surprise us with a competitive finish if they can be quick enough across the country on Saturday.

Phillip Dutton and Azure. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Phillip Dutton and Azure
11-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare (Omar – Cavalier Roselier, by Cavalier Royal)
Owned by Anne Moran, Caroline Moran and Michael Moran

Azure was one of the most exciting purchases by a U.S.-based rider in 2022, coming to Phillip Dutton’s barn from Irish rider Esib Power. With experience through the 4* level in Ireland, she makes a competitive addition to Phillip’s string as he looks to qualify horses for the upcoming Olympics in Paris. She’s only done a handful of FEI competitions with Phillip in the irons, but she was third in the USEF 4*-L National Championship at Tryon last fall. This weekend marks her first eventing competition of the new season, so we likely won’t see Phillip kicking for the win on Saturday. He’ll instead be looking to show this young mare some atmosphere, test her skills and training in the 5* dressage test, and give her an interesting challenge to gain some experience come cross country day.

Phillip Dutton and Z. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Phillip Dutton and Z
15-year-old Zangersheide gelding (Asca Z – Bellabouche, by Babouche VH Gehucht Z)
Owned by Evie Dutton, Ann Jones, Suzanne Lacy, Caroline Moran, Tom Tierney, Patricia Vos and David Vos

Z came to Phillip Dutton having formerly been partnered with Portuguese rider Duarte Seabra, who rode the gelding in honor of his brother, Francisco, who passed away in a riding accident in 2015. Duarte made the difficult decision to sell Z as a future top event horse, wanting to focus on show jumping in his own career. Through Fernhill Sport Horses’ Carol Gee, the gelding found his way to Phillip and would go on to be his partner in the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games (finishing 13th individually) as well as the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo (finishing 21st individually). This pair knows each other quite well, now in their eighth season together. Most recently, Z was fourth in the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill in October of 2022. This is a horse we could expect Phillip to go for the gold on, though it may well come down to how quickly he can get around Saturday’s cross country.

Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire
13-year-old Oldenburg gelding (Diarado – Lantana, by Sandro Hit)
Owned by Carol Stephens

Fan favorite QC Diamantaire has become quite the world traveler with his longtime partner, Louisiana-based Sydney Elliott, having come into his own at the 4* level and earning a ticket to represent the U.S. at the CCIO4* FEI Nations Cup at Aachen as well as Boekelo in 2021. They’ve notched up a healthy amount of competitive results, finishing fifth individually at Boekelo and eighth overall in the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event in 2022. Sydney has been partnered with Carol Stephens for many years, importing horses and producing young superstars together in an empathetic and intentional way, and those results really shine with “Q”. This pair competed in the Grand-Prix Eventing in 2022, finishing eighth overall and securing a rare clear cross country inside the time — can they match or even improve that placing this year?

Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way
12-year-old Hanoverian gelding (Mighty Magic – Straightaway, by Star Regent xx)
Owned by Jennifer Mosing and Sterling Silver Stables

Last weekend at Pine Top, I was sitting ringside with Ema Klugman watching the Advanced dressage. As Will Faudree trotted by on “Mason”, as Mama’s Magic Way is known at home, Ema remarked, “that’s the type of horse who could jump around any course in the world.” And to look at this striking Hanoverian gelding is to agree with that sentiment — he just looks like a classic event horse. He’s got three different 5* events under his belt at this point in his career: he was 14th in his debut at Kentucky in 2021, following that up with a top-25 finish at the Maryland 5 Star as well as a trip over the pond to compete at Badminton in 2022. This year, Mason has spent some time in the jumper ring with Will in prep for his eventing season, and he most recently won that very Advanced division at Pine Top last weekend (it was definitely the good juju from Ema, at least in part!). This weekend will be just a combined test (dressage and show jumping) for Mason, who is aimed at Kentucky’s 5* in April. For his part, Will is getting back to the swing of things after breaking his foot last season and spending much of the off-season healing.

Will Faudree and PFun. Photo by Abby Powell.

Will Faudree and PFun
16-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Tadmus – Celerina, by Cento)
Owned by Jennifer Mosing and Sterling Silver Stables

Pfun is a veteran at the top levels of the sport as he enters his 16th year and 10th season of FEI eventing. Pfun has also enjoyed his fair share of big tracks in his time with Will, including three trips around the Kentucky 5*. In 2019, the pair traveled to Ireland and finished fifth in the tough 4*-L at Millstreet. This year, Will plans to focus primarily on 4*-S events instead of aiming for another 5*, he told The Chronicle of the Horse.

Heather Gillette and Vincent Chase. Photo by Alleyn Evans for Shannon Brinkman Photography.

William Fox-Pitt and Vincent Chase
11-year-old Thoroughbred gelding (Value Plus – Her Entourage, by Elusive Quality)
Owned by rider

A very special treat awaits this weekend as British Olympian and 5* winner William Fox-Pitt returns to compete at Grand-Prix Eventing once more, this time partnering up with Heather Gillette’s Vincent Chase. Heather has produced “Vinnie” herself since he came off the track, moving up to the Advanced and 4* level in 2022. Heather volunteered Vinnie as William’s teammate this weekend, and they’ve spent the last few days getting to know one another in Ocala. Vinnie’s dressage marks won’t threaten the top of the board on Friday morning, but he’s a keen jumper who’s eager to do the job. If William can put the gas pedal down, he could leap up in the standings with two clear jumping rounds. Meanwhile, Heather — a 5* rider in her own right — gets to play nervous owner/mom/groom this weekend, so if you see her, maybe give her a cookie.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z
15-year-old KWPN gelding (Zapatero – Zonne-Trend, by French Buffet xx)
Owned by Ocala Horse Properties

Here’s our first former winner of Grand-Prix Eventing — this pair won the 2020 edition of the event and remain a real threat to take a second win this weekend with a strong performance. Deniro Z has been with Liz since the beginning of his FEI career in 2015 and has been a real competitor for the former racecar driver/current adrenaline junkie. After rehabbing from a hoof injury that kept him out of the Tokyo Olympics, Deniro Z returned to competition in the spring of last year, finishing the year with a second place in the 4*-L National Championship at Tryon. This weekend will be Deniro’s first eventing competition of the season, and if we know Liz, she’ll be testing her chops to go for a competitive finish.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Quicksilver. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Quicksilver
12-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Womanizer – Kylemore Crystal, by Creggan Diamond)
Owned by The Monster Partnership

Cooley Quicksilver has proven himself to be a tough competitor for Liz Halliday-Sharp, who has produced him through his entire international career. She knows this gelding well, often remarking about how much he’s come up and progressed from his “over-cooked noodle” days, when she found him in a small dealers’ yard in Ireland. Purchased as a project, he grew into his own and put any and all doubts to rest when he finished seventh at the FEI WBFSH Young Horse World Breeding Championships at Le Lion d’Angers as a seven-year-old. “Monster” has now completed three 5* events and could prove to be just as competitive this weekend if Liz decides it’s his weekend to go for the gold.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Miks Master C. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Miks Master C
11-year-old Swedish Warmblood gelding (Mighty Magic – Qui Luma CBF, by Flyinge Quite Easy 958)
Owned by Debbie Palmer and Ocala Horse Properties

Miks Master C is one of the newer additions to Liz’s string, joining her in 2022 and picking up a slew of competitive results (how does three consecutive FEI wins sound? Pretty good, eh?) in the earliest days of their partnership. Liz teamed up with Miks Master C to represent the U.S. at Boekelo last fall, finishing fifth individually. This is a supremely exciting horse for Liz to have in her pocket, especially with an eye on next year’s Olympics. He’s competitive across all three phases and is well capabable of a leading dressage mark on his day to set the tone. Keep your eyes on this one this weekend!

Emily Hamel and Corvett. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Emily Hamel and Corvett
16-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Corrido – Tina XII, by Clearway)
Owned by Black Flag Option LLC

It’s everyone’s favorite jumping bean, “Barry”! Corvett is one of the most exuberant jumpers you’ll see in this sport, always making sure to clear even the biggest 5* fences by a healthy margin. Despite this, he’s quite nimble and light on his feet, though the hang time does add a bit of time on the clock come cross country day. This has been Emily’s first 5* horse, and they’ve done quite well to see the sights together: they’ve competed at Kentucky, Maryland, Badminton, and Burghley. Perhaps we should add a certain German and a certain French (and heck, a certain Australian) 5* to that list! Get your cameras out while this pair jumps around on Saturday — you won’t be disappointed.

Lillian Heard & Dassett Olympus. Photo by Abby Powell.

Lillian Heard Wood and Dassett Olympus
10-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Lancelot – Cushlamochree, by Cruising)
Owned by rider

Another younger horse in the field, Dassett Olympus is entering his 10-year-old season ready to compete, having already picked up several top results in 2022. He represented the U.S. at Bromont last summer, finishing fourth individually, and was in the top 10 at the Morven Park 4*-L later in the year. This is an exciting rising star for Lillian, who knows a thing or two about producing a 5* horse (she brought two to her own debut at the level, for starters!). She’s also got her more seasoned horse, LCC Barnaby, with her this weekend, giving her double the chances to put those quick-riding cross country skills to the test for a strong finish.

Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Lillian Heard Wood and LCC Barnaby
17-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Guy Cavalier – Lady Tanjour, by Rafael)
Owned by rider

Another very experienced horse in the field, LCC Barnaby brings seven 5* completions to the table this weekend, having traveled the world with longtime rider Lillian. They were most recently 11th at Maryland last fall, where Lillian told us he’s felt better and better as he’s gotten older, allowing her to ride him more efficiently and lower his dressage marks in the process. He’s historically not been the most rideable horse across the country but once more, Lillian credits time and experience with him understanding the task at hand better each year. At 17, Barnaby is an older guy, but you wouldn’t know it by looking at him — he’s still got energy and spring to spare!

Erin Sylvester and Campground. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Erin Kanara and Campground
16-year-old Thoroughbred gelding (Forest Camp – Kneel)
Owned by Marnie Kelly

The cutest (okay, one of the cutest) elements of Campground’s story is the fact that when he isn’t out jumping around 5* events with Erin Kanara, he can be found gallivanting about with owner Marnie Kelly. Marnie is one of those incredible owners who just loves to see her horses doing what they love, and once she figured out that Campground wanted to be a superstar she handed the reins to Erin to produce him up the levels. They made their 5* debut together at Maryland last fall, finishing 15th overall and solidifying the off-track Thoroughbred gelding’s status as a true-blue event horse. Erin is another speed queen on cross country, and she’s seen some big tracks in her career. We wouldn’t be surprised to see Erin open the throttle come Saturday to go for a strong finish.

Sara Kozumplik and Rubens D’Ysieux. Photo by Abby Powell.

Sara Kozumplik and Rubens D’ysieux
18-year-old Selle Francais gelding (Balougran – Orenda D’Ysieux, by Mr Blue)
Owned by the Rubens D’Ysieux Syndicate LLC

A true unicorn exists among us, folks. At least, that’s what we like to call Rubens D’Ysieux, whose easily recognizable coloring makes him a fan favorite and whose jumping skills have earned him more than a few prizes in the jumper ring, to boot. Sara has primarily focused on short-format events with Rubens as he’s gotten older, an avenue he seems to relish. They wrapped up their 2022 season with a third place finish at the TerraNova 4*-S and are certainly a pair to watch this weekend. They’re capable of delivering a sub-30 dressage mark, and if they can also lay down two clear jumping rounds they could find themselves in that prize pot when the dust settles.

Dan Kreitl and Carmango. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Dan Kreitl and Carmango
10-year-old Westphalian gelding (Chirivell – Taramanga, by Templer GL xx)
Owned by Kay Dixon

Everyone loves a good amateur story, and you need not look further than Indiana native Dan Kreitl for a great one. Dan doesn’t keep a ton of horses in his string — Carmango is his top horse at the moment — but he’s made the most of it, even winning the USEF 4*-L National Championship in 2022. Dan’s wife, Alyssa, has battled a rare form of cancer for the past few years, and the couple also have two children at home in addition to a college housing rental business that keeps them busy. It’s one of those “make it work with what you can” situations, and Dan’s lucky to have the support of longtime owner Kay Dixon, who can even be found in the barn helping out with chores from time to time. It’s a true family affair, and the successes couldn’t have come to a nicer guy. Dan can typically be found at events wearing his signature green and with his Great Dane, Dwight, in tow, and I’m not sure I’ve ever seen him without a big smile on his face, happy to be out with his much-loved horses experiencing the sport that keeps him grounded. This pair will lay down a competitive dressage mark, though show jumping has been more their nemesis. If they can leave the poles up Friday, they would be one to watch to grab a top finish here this weekend.

Sarah Kuhn and Mr. Cash van de Start. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Sarah Kuhn and Mr. Cash van de Start
11-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding (Deauville Van T L – Ishtar Van de Start, by Toulon)
Owned by Deborah Kuhn

This will be the second full season at the Advanced and 4* level for Mr. Cash van de Start and local rider Sarah Kuhn. This pair has been together since Mr. Cash was five, and he’s become her first 4* horse now with multiple finishes at both Long and Short format events. They capped off 2022 with a 10th place finish in the 4*-L National Championship at Tryon and have gotten off to a light start in 2023 with a couple of Intermediate starts. This pair has a great cross country record, though time might keep them from climbing too far up the board on Saturday. Nonetheless, the weekend offers great opportunity to get some 5* practice and acclimate to some heightened atmosphere.

Kendal Lehari and Audacious. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Kendal Lehari and Audacious
10-year-old Oldenburg/Thoroughbred gelding (Iron Man – Meagan’s Mayflower)
Owned by rider

Canadian rider Kendal Lehari has an exciting prospect for this year’s Pan American Games and potentially the Paris Olympics in the 10-year-old Audacious, who got his first taste of the Advanced level in 2022. Kendal has become a well-respected producer of event horses, bringing 13 along from unbroken or unproven to become international eventers. Audacious was purchased as a three-year-old, a part of Kendal’s program since the beginning of his career. This pair also competes in the show jumping arena when they aren’t out eventing. This weekend will likely be an educational focus for Kendal, who will be keen to get her rising star in front of some crowds in anticipation of bigger things yet to come.

Shannon Lilley and Ideal HX. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Shannon Lilley and Ideal HX
10-year-old KWPN gelding (Vittorio – Elocia, by Ustinov)
Owned by Shannon and Alex Lilley

Californian-turned-East Coaster Shannon Lilley is another rider who’s earned herself a reputation as a producer of horses and has also represented the U.S. internationally at the Pan American Games. Ideal HX is the top horse in Shannon’s string, coming her way via breeder Stal Hendrix as well as Caroline Martin’s sales program. They first began competing at the 4* level in 2022, capping off the year with a top-15 finish at Morven Park’s 4*-L. Most recently, this pair was fourth in the Advanced at Rocking Horse.

Colleen Loach and Vermont. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Colleen Loach and Vermont
11-year-old Hanoverian gelding (Van Helsing – Hauptstutbuch Hollywood, by Heraldik xx)
Owned by Peter Barry

Canada is well-represented this weekend, adding Olympic rider Colleen Loach to the mix with her two top horses, Vermont and FE Golden Eye. Originally selected to travel to Italy for the FEI World Championships for Eventing in 2022, Colleen withdrew Vermont from the event due to a minor setback, but the pair is back and ready to get to it here in 2023. Colleen galloped to two top-five finishes at Grand-Prix Eventing in 2023, and we’ll look for her to do the same or even improve on those placings this year.

Colleen Loach and FE Golden Eye (CAN). Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Colleen Loach and FE Golden Eye
11-year-old Hanoverian gelding (Goldfever 3 – Cascade, by Contendro I)
Owned by Peter Barry, Amanda Bernhard and rider

Also quite the powerhouse in the show jumping arena, FE Golden Eye is a horse of many talents who we’ll likely see making the step up to the 5* level before too long. This was Colleen’s Pan American Games partner in 2019, and they’ve also represented Canada in Nations Cup competition. They were sixth in the very tough Lexington 4*-S at LRK3DE last spring and finished off their season with some jumper shows. “Monty” moved up from 16th to finish 7th last year at this event thanks to two clear jumping rounds. Can they do it again this year?

Boyd Martin and Fedarman B en route to the 2022 GPE win. Photo by Christine Quinn Photography.

Boyd Martin and Fedarman B
13-year-old KWPN gelding (Eurocommerce Washington – Paulien B, by Fedor)
Owned by the Annie Goodwin Syndicate

Our 2022 Grand-Prix Eventing winner needs little introduction. Boyd Martin took home an emotional win with Fedarman B, who he rides in honor of the late Annie Goodwin. Since taking the reins, Boyd has collected multiple top finishes with “Bruno”, who exudes a natural ability and generally affable demeanor that makes him a quality partner. It’s a bittersweet scenario for all involved, and there wasn’t a dry eye to be found when Boyd secured the win last year. This is a highly competitive pair who would also be one to tap for the upcoming Olympics, and it won’t be surprising if they manage to repeat their victory this year.

Boyd & Luke 140. Photo by Kim Miller.

Boyd Martin and Luke 140

12-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Landos – Omega VI, by Limbus)

 Owned by the The Luke 140 Syndicate 

Where Fedarman B might be described as “affable”, stablemate Luke 140 might be described more as…not the most chill horse in the barn. He’s a freakish talent who came to Boyd’s program in 2019, and he was originally selected to be Boyd’s horse for the Tokyo Olympics before sustaining a minor injury that saw Tsetserleg step up to fill in. When he’s not trying to buck Boyd off, he’s quite the athlete who’s picked up three FEI wins to date. He had a light competition year in 2022, but Boyd will be aiming the 12-year-old gelding for a spring 5* event and will use this weekend to open up the pipes in prep for bigger goals.

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg TSF. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg
16-year-old Trakehner gelding (Windfall II – Thabana, by Buddenbrock)
Owned by Christine, Thomas and Tommie Turner

Boyd’s Tokyo and FEI World Championships partner is back in action this year and stands as a positive threat to take the win from stablemate Fedarman B. “Thomas” is the little horse that could, one of those horses that might be unassuming at first but seems to grow a few inches taller when faced with a beefy cross country track. He and Boyd know each other quite well at this point in their lengthy tenure together, and this partnership has served them well with countless top finishes in both National and FEI competition. Show jumping would be the only “weak” link in the 16-year-old U.S.-bred’s repertoire, but Boyd works diligtently with coach Peter Wylde to coax the best possible results out of Thomas.

Doug Payne and Starr Witness. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Doug Payne and Starr Witness
12-year-old KWPN mare (Chello III VDL – Carmen, by Veneur)
Owned by Laurie McRee, Catherine Winter and Doug Payne

The “Ginja Ninja” is back in action for 2023 after having a light 2022 and a winter spent honing the 12-year-old mare’s already-stunning dressage. This pair finished sixth in the USEF National 4*-L Championship at Tryon last fall to finish their year strong. Doug says Starr Witness would definitely be a supermodel if she were human (we agree!), and she actually got her start in the hunter ring before switching to eventing. This mare can throw down in the first phase, and she loves the challenge of cross country. If this pair can make the time, and if Doug decides it’s the right time to go for the win, we could be in for an exciting finish come Saturday.

Doug Payne and Quantum Leap. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Doug Payne and Quantum Leap
12-year-old DSP gelding (Quite Capitol – Report to Sloopy, by Corporate Report)
Owned by Doug and Jess Payne

The reigning USEF National 5* Champion, Quantum Leap, has stepped up wonderfully to fill the horseshoes of stablemate and Olympic veteran Vandiver, who was retired following Kentucky last year. Affectionately known as “Baby Quantum” for most of his younger years, you can’t quite use that name these days as the gelding has notched four 5*s to date, only finishing outside of the top 10 once. Quantum Leap also turned in his first sub-30 dressage mark at the 5* level at Maryland last fall, and he stands to be a serious contender for some prize money this weekend — especially if Doug decides to be bold with his line choices on cross country.

Doug Payne and Camarillo. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Doug Payne and Camarillo
9-year-old DSP gelding (Chicardo – Rehobeth, by Riverman)
Owned by Patrice Jennings-Rado and rider

“Carl” is a relative newcomer to the 4* level, having moved up to his first 4* competitions in 2022. As he’s matured, he’s gotten more rideable and stands to be another competitive horse for Doug’s Pan American and Olympic bid. He’s got some improvement to make on the flat (as young horses go), but he’s shown greater strength and abilities as his career has progressed. This weekend will be an experience-building one for this gelding, who’ll be taking on the 5* test for the first time. Doug has three chances at a share of the $50,000 prize, and we’ll likely see him go for it more with his other two, more experienced horses rather than Camarillo.

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights. Photo by Abby Powell.

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights
17-year-old Thoroughbred cross gelding (BFF Incognito – Let’s Get It Right)
Owned by rider

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights can always be marked in the program as a fan favorite, and they make their return to Grand-Prix Eventing as they prep for their spring destinations. They last competed at Bromont’s Nations Cup leg, where they finished in the top 15 overall. Most eventing fans know that Covert Rights has a good amount of Clydesdale in his breeding — a fascinating tidbit that makes him quite the attraction!

Ryan Wood and Cooley Flight. Photo by Abby Powell.

Ryan Wood and Cooley Flight
11-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Pot Blue – Making Moments, by Laughton’s Flight)
Owned by Linda Ledray and rider

Australian rider Ryan Wood has been partnered with the 11-year-old Cooley Flight for his entire FEI career, stepping up to the 4* event last year. They were fifth in the Morven Park 4*-L last fall. This weekend will also be an educational one for this pair, but they’re a good pair across the country and should make for a fun ride to watch on Saturday.

William Fox-Pitt Returns to Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce’s Field

By on Feb 21, 2023 9:47 am - 1,909 views

William Fox-Pitt and Sandro’s Star. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Exciting news, EN! British Olympic eventing legend William Fox-Pitt will make his return to the Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor Harris Insurance Services, happening in Aiken, SC March 3-4. William will take the reins of 5* rider and Strides for Equality Equestrians co-founder Heather Gillette’s off-track Thoroughbred, Vincent Chase, for the competition. Lanky Will is becoming something of a regular at Bruce’s Field, which should tell you everything it needs to about how great the show is: he borrowed Sara Kozumplik’s Rock Phantom last year, finishing sixteenth, and was third in 2019 on Hannah Salazar’s Sandro’s Star.

Heather Gillette and Vincent Chase. Photo by Abby Powell.

Heather has produced “Vinnie” since his off-track days, moving him up to the Advanced and 4* level in 2022. This will be his first trip to a showcase-format event, which also boasts a growing entry roster that includes former winners Liz Halliday-Sharp and Boyd Martin.

Check out the full entry list here and our update on the packed event schedule here. Tickets can be purchased here, and if you aren’t planning to attend in person, Horse & Country will provide a live stream of all phases.

#TrainingTipTuesday Video: Using Cones to Perfect Circles

By on Feb 14, 2023 5:00 pm - 263 views

There are plenty of us who ride at home without a full dressage court setup in the arena or field. This can make it difficult to practice geometry in our tests — a skill that is necessary to keep scores competitive and earn the best possible marks. Ring craft should be a part of our everyday practice, but how to do this without a ring?

Answer: the always valuable cone!

In this video, Amelia Newcomb and her husband, Germán, walk us through a simple set-up using cones to help riders improve their circles. It’s not just about nailing a shape, it’s about achieving a level of suppleness with your horse that allows you to flow. Germán also demonstrates a spiral in and out exercise that can help riders practice their aids with this concept.

Enjoy, and don’t forget to peruse the rest of Amelia Newcomb’s dressage training on her YouTube channel here.