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.
We’re getting hyped for cross country on Saturday here at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, and just in time the USEF Network has posted a course preview with designer Derek di Grazia. Check it out as Derek walks us through some of the most challenging questions on the course.
Woodge Fulton and Captain Jack. Photo by Jenni Autry.
It’s just about time to wrap up the dressage here at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. This morning we were treated to some real master classes on how to perform a CCI4* test, and it’s Clark Montgomery leading the charge with Loughan Glen on a 33.6. You can catch up on our full report here and our morning open thread here.
While it will be a tough play to best Clark’s score from this morning, there is still plenty of deep talent left to see today, and it’s likely we’ll see quite a few more shuffles on the board before we finalize the standings heading into cross country.
Keep refreshing this page for the latest, and we’ll be joining you shortly at 1:30 p.m. EST with the first ride of the afternoon, Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby, her second ride of the weekend.
3:41 p.m.: Catch Buck’s thoughts on his last ride with Petite Flower:
3:38 p.m.: Well it will be Clark Montgomery, Michael Jung and Kim Severson who are your top three heading into tomorrow’s cross country! Stay tuned for the full report, and I will continue to add more tidbits to this thread.
3:37 p.m.: I really hope that the judges kept a score for Allison because we would love to know how she would have placed!
3:37 p.m.:
3:35 p.m.: Allison receives a standing ovation from a packed house as her final curtain call with Arthur comes to an end. The pure emotion that we’re seeing right now is overwhelming. She now takes a victory gallop as a final farewell. I am really sorry I don’t have more GIFs, my computer chose the perfect time to say nah.
3:26 p.m.: Oh God. It’s time. I can’t handle the amount of tears that are about to happen.
3:26 p.m.: Buck is working on a really nice test here with Flower.
3:12 p.m.: Just a couple more to see still and now we will see Jessica Phoenix’s third and final ride, Bentley’s Best.
3:11 p.m.: How is that for consistency? Phillip earns a 44.8 on Mr. Medicott to tie with his earlier ride, I’m Sew Ready.
3:10 p.m. An absolutely lovely test from Phillip and “Cave.” Unfortunately, my GIF maker has decided to crap out on me so bear with me as I try to get it up and running again.
3:02 p.m.: Some tension will hurt Will’s score with Tight Lines but a solid showing with a good finish for this horse’s first CCI4*.
2:58 p.m.: Hear from Will Faudree on his ride with Pfun:
2:57 p.m.: Will Coleman and a stunning looking Tight Lines are the next in.
2:33 p.m.: Get Boyd’s thoughts on Steady Eddie’s test:
2:33 p.m.:
"That was a super test for Steady Eddie, that was the best this horse could have done!" – Silva after Steady Eddie's dressage at #RK3DEpic.twitter.com/HkvLLRUrXl
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2:26 p.m.: And we’re onto our final break of the day and will resume at 2:40 p.m. with Will Faudree and Pfun.
2:23 p.m.: Nice changes from Boyd, I missed the last one off of the extended canter, but that was my favorite. A lovely transition from the extended to the collected and a nice lift for the change.
2:22 p.m.: We caught up with Tim Price after his test:
2:21 p.m.: Am I the only one who was kind of wishing that the FEI didn’t institute a new rule about not catch riding at this level so that William Fox-Pitt could have ridden this horse?
2:17 p.m.: And the final of our second to last group today is Boyd Martin and his second ride, Steady Eddie.
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2:10 p.m.: Here are Jordan Linstedt’s thoughts on her test:
2:08 p.m.: Tim left a few points on the table in the latter half of his test but nailed his final halt to give a good final impression. They will take a 46.9 into cross country tomorrow. Next we will see Doug Payne and Vandiver.
2:04 p.m.: A superb start for Ringwood Sky Boy. This could be a challenger! A slight mistake when Sky Boy tried to take a step forward in the rein back and then hit the board during.
2:02 p.m.: Here’s what Woodge Fulton thought of her test:
2:01 p.m.: And now we have Tim Price with Ringwood Sky Boy, who could be ones to challenge the leaders.
2:00 p.m.:
Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato earn a 47.3 to shave a couple off of their 2016 score #RK3DE
1:59 p.m.: John Kyle comments that the number of changes in this test has held many riders back from better scores, especially since they come as some of the last movements of the test.
1:58 p.m.: A lovely change for Capato, who has my favorite gallop. Just wait til you see him tomorrow.
1:57 p.m.: A little resistance in the rein back for Capato:
1:47 p.m.: A little tense heading into the first medium trot on the short diagonal. Perhaps a bit of tension from this horse, but they still present a really nice picture.
Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF.
1:46 p.m.: Next up, Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF. Matt surely has his superhero socks on, and this will likely be a super lovely test.
1:43 p.m.: And Woodge has made her official Rolex debut! We all know Captain Jack is not a huge fan of the dressage (we get it, buddy), but now it’s on to the fun stuff!
1:40 p.m.: Captain Jack says “How do I look?” to the crowd at his halt at C.
Woodge Fulton and Captain Jack.
1:38 p.m.: And now we have another Rookie and another one of our youngest riders this year, Woodge Fulton and Captain Jack.
1:35 p.m.: Lillian has a big grin as she makes her final halt. A really nice test with just a couple of mistakes from LCC Barnaby. They earn a 57.0 from the judges. Barnaby looks quite pleased with himself!
1:32 p.m.: Karen O’Connor comments that LCC Barnaby is not “the most extravagant” of movers, so Lillian really has to concentrate on quality of transitions and accuracy, as well as setting her horse up as best she can to get the most out of each movement.
Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby.
1:30 p.m.: And here we go! Underway with Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby, who is 11 this year and looking for his second CCI4* completion this weekend.
1:27 p.m.: The ever wonderful John Kyle is now re-joined by Karen O’Connor for this first afternoon session.
Lauren Kieffer and Vermiculus. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Lauren Kieffer’s eventing career has come full circle this weekend as she pilots Ms. Jacqueline Mars’ Vermiculus around his first CCI4* at Rolex Kentucky. Vermiculus, a 10-year-old Anglo-Arabian (Serazim X Wake Me Gently), was purchased by Lauren as a 3-year-old because he is the full brother of her first CCI4* horse, Snooze Alarm. (Read more: “The One That Started It All: Snooze Alarm.”
Both Anglo Arab geldings, Vermiculus and Snooze Alarm share both the Thoroughbred athleticism and the Arab stamina that makes for excellent eventing horses.
Lauren said that the two are very different rides, even though they share blood. With that in mind, here is a look at Vermiculus’ Rolex 2017 test …
… in comparison to Snooze Alarm at Rolex in 2010:
See any resemblance?
“It’s special to have his connection (to Snooze),” Lauren said yesterday. “He’s greener and known for being cheeky in the dressage. This year he’s grown up a little, but I didn’t expect him to be quite so good in there. You can’t match the atmosphere with a green horse, so you just don’t know exactly what will happen.”
Lauren and Vermiculus are off to a super start, having scored a 43.8 in dressage that was good for second place heading into Friday’s competition. We look forward to watching Vermiculus follow in his big brother’s hoof steps on Saturday — Snooze Alarm jumped around clear with time here in 2010.
Lauren Kieffer couldn’t be more thrilled with Vermiculus! Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen. Photo by Jenni Autry.
Welcome to day two of competition here in beautiful Lexington, Kentucky! Once again, we’re ready to bring you the latest and greatest in all things #RK3DE, and we’re kicking things off in high gear with the morning session of dressage.
We’re in for some real treats today as the remaining horses and riders will take their turn in the sandbox. Stay tuned to see reigning champs Michael Jung and fischerRocana FST as well as powerhouses Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen, Buck Davidson and Boyd Martin with their remaining rides, as well as so many more.
And, last but not least, please stay after the final ride of the day and watch what is sure to be an emotional, bring-the-house-down finale with the final ride of Allison Springer and Arthur. I got chills just typing that, I swear. And … commence ugly crying. Dang it.
12:11 p.m.: Here are your top 10 heading into the lunch break:
12:08 p.m.: So it’s a 37.1, actually a tad high for Roxy, for second place. It’s the Clark Montgomery show this morning! We now go to lunch and reconvene for the final session!
12:06 p.m.: Well he didn’t quite trend up to where Clark was early on but let’s see! What a LOVELY test.
12:04 p.m.: The thing I love about Rocana is how happy she looks to work. One of the most pleasant horses I think I’ve ever seen.
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11:42 a.m.: And a 41.0 for Kim puts this pair into second!
11:40 a.m.: A minor bobble in one of the changes but such a nice picture. A huge cheer from the crowd, we all love Kim here! She NAILED her final halt too.
11:37 a.m.: I absolutely love this horse. I’m so thrilled that he seems to have really come into his own in the last season.
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11:23 a.m.: We’re now treated to Marilyn Payne’s commentary in the booth. What a privilege to get a pro judge’s opinion!
11:21 a.m.: A lovely, candenced medium trot from “Pippy”. HSB is busy this month, as she goes next to Badminton to compete Harbour Pilot.
Hannah Sue and Under Suspection.
11:20 a.m.: And we’re back underway with Hannah Sue Burnett and Under Suspection.
11:17 a.m.: OK, what do we think? To date, fischerRocana’s best four star score has been a 34.1 at Luhmühlen in 2015. Last year she earned a 34.4. What will she get this year?
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10:55 a.m.: A 51.6 for Cooley on Show, and now we’re onto our second short break of the day. Next up we will see Hannah Sue Burnett and Under Suspection at 11:20.
10:49 a.m.: Hear what Clark had to say about killing the game:
10:48 a.m.: And last to go before our next short break is Sharon White and Cooley On Show. This horse will look lovely in Sharon’s signature orange on Saturday! This is the first Rolex for this horse, who is 10 this year.
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10:46 a.m.: Aidan looks pleased with Master Tredstep following their test, which earned them a score of 48.6 to tie for 11th with Boyd Martin/Crackerjack and Will Coleman/OBOS O’Reilly.
10:40 a.m.: Bobby Meyerhoff talks dressage with the press:
10:39 a.m.: Believe it or not, this is actually not a personal CCI4* best for Clark and Glen; their previous low was a 33.3 at Badminton in 2014. No big deal.
10:38 a.m.: WOW. Clark has thrown down the gauntlet with a 33.9 to take the lead by 8 points. Your move, Roxy.
10:37 a.m.: What a treat that was. So accurate. We are looking at our new leader, methinks.
10:34 a.m.: Early on, Clark and Glen are trending towards the mid to upper 70s. Lovely, lovely.
10:33 a.m.: And now we should really be in for a treat: Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen! These two can throw DOWN!
10:22 a.m.: And now a pair who is very near and dear to my heart: Bobby Meyerhoff and Dunlavin’s Token. Bobby and Token are having their last hurrah this weekend, as Token will retire from upper level competition. Let’s give them all a big collective cheer! Bobby also recently had a fall off of a young horse and broke several ribs and suffered a collapsed lung. Like, two weeks ago. The first time he rode again was this week in Kentucky. It’s fine. I texted him shortly after he got out of the hospital asking if he was still going to Kentucky and he basically said “Well, duh.” My bad, Bobby. Have fun with that sitting trot friend!
10:21 a.m.: A nice change coming back from the extended canter for “Obie”:
10:19 a.m.: A nice obedient rein back from Sir Oberon:
10:16 a.m.: Some tension marred Lisa’s test with Honor Me, but I have to say that he’s one of the most well turned out I’ve seen so far! He earns a 62.4 from the judges. Next we will see Ellen Doughty-Hume and Sir Oberon. If you remember, Ellen actually got married here a few years ago! #weddinggoals
10:13 a.m.: Many, many thanks to all of our wonderful volunteers this weekend!
"I like listening to the commentary while watching dressage I think it's a really great learning experience"- Gracie Blone @RolexKentuckypic.twitter.com/M7wUXwSRQG
10:07 a.m.: Seeing a lot of horses really anticipating a halt up the final centerline rather than a trot transition. Andrea had some really, really nice changes with her little mare and gets a huge cheer from the crowd! Welcome back, Andrea!
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10:04 a.m.: A special treat now as John Kyle is joined now by Tim Price’s wife, Jonelle, in the booth.
10:01 a.m.: And we are back underway with the West Coast’s Andrea Baxter and Indy 500. Andrea makes her return to this level for the first time since 2010 and has really done an excellent job producing this Thoroughbred mare.
9:58 a.m.: Kurt Martin talks about his ride on Delux Z:
9:45 a.m.: I’m a big fan of Kurt’s stretch canter circle, mostly because you didn’t see the rhythm change at all. Kurt looks really happy with his test! Well done.
Kurt Martin and Delux Z.
9:41 a.m.: What a compliment: Lauren Kieffer tells us that she’s often asked Kurt to help ride her horses when she is gone. Lauren, I’m also available if the need ever arises. #justsaying #amateurfriendly
9:32 a.m.: Next up we will see Rachel McDonough and Irish Rhythm, who is an 18-year-old OTTB who completed his first Rolex in 2014. This is an awesome cross country horse, be sure to take the time to watch these two on Saturday.
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9:28 a.m.: Holly putting in a tactful ride on a keen Never OutFoxed. Lots of tension, as this one is ready to get this silly dressage over with! She will be happy to move on to phase two! Lauren Kieffer said it best: “There are a lot of people who would want to sit on this horse on Saturday!”
Holly and Never Outfoxed.
9:24 a.m.: Next up we will see Holly Payve Caravella and Never Outfoxed.
9:24 a.m.: Phillip shares his thoughts on Fernhill Fugitive’s test:
9:22 a.m.: Copper Beach scores a 51.8 with a decent amount of spread from the judges, ranging from 63.750 to over 67. I am honestly a bit disappointed in this score, I thought that this was a score in the 40s, even with a couple of bobbles. But, this is why I am not a judge, I suppose.
9:21 a.m.: A bit of a loss of rhythm into “Sean’s” last change, but overall a really nice looking test. This horse was my “Spoiler Alert” pick this year, so I’ll have my eye on this one come Saturday!
9:19 a.m.: Copper Beach had some really nice, relaxed walk work and this canter transition was really well executed:
Buck and Copper Beach.
9:17 a.m.: Get Liz Halliday Sharp’s thoughts on her superb test as she chats with Samantha Clark:
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9:11 a.m.: Fun fact, Liz Halliday and Fernhill By Night earned a personal best at the CCI4* level today. Their previous lowest came last year when they scored a 43.0.
9:10 a.m.: I have to confess, “Jack” is my favorite of Phillip’s horses. He just seems like such a nice guy.
9:05 a.m.: A really great start to the day from one of our dressage powerhouses! Liz will be pleased, and gives a fist pump to the crowd.
9:04 a.m.: This is a really lovely showing from Liz. Really nice changes from Blackie:
9:03 a.m.: Liz and “Blackie” show great lateral movement in their second half-pass:
9:02 a.m.: Liz had, if you want to call it this, the advantage of being in the announcer’s booth watching a lot of the rides yesterday. With this being a new test this year, it had to have been helpful to see how different riders handled the test and what respective marks they received.
9:00 a.m.: John Kyle is joined this morning by Lauren Kieffer in the commentator’s booth.
9:00 a.m.:
Blackie having his salon session ahead of dressage this morning! Heading down the center line at… https://t.co/cpP1gUoivU
Kathleen Murray and Ballynoe Castle RM head into the ring. Photo via Maralee Paul on Instagram.
It’s been one heck of a day here in Lexington, and all eyes were on Rolex Stadium as the first pairs tackled the new CCI4* dressage test. Between the emotional test ride from Kathleen Murray and Ballynoe Castle RM and the test that brought the house down to conclude the day from Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti, there is a lot to look back on. Here is today’s social media round-up from #RK3DE!
Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Welcome to the afternoon session of dressage here on day one of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event! We’re all geared up for some more fancy prancing, and we’re sure to see some lovely tests this afternoon.
As it stands now, Katie Ruppel and her OTTB Houdini hold the lead on a personal best score of 46.0. First up this afternoon at 1:30 p.m. EST will be Canada’s Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High.
If you missed any of this morning’s action, catch up on our open thread here and the lunch report here. Keep refreshing this page for the latest!
3:40 p.m.: The leaderboard has been updated again and it looks like Jessica’s score is actually a 43.1. Way to go, Jessie!
3:37 p.m.: Still waiting on final confirmation but it looks like Jessica Phoenix has taken the overnight lead with Pavarotti on a score of 43.5. Lauren’s score was adjusted to a 43.8.
3:33 p.m.: Big pats for Pavarotti and a big cheer from the crowd as the final ride of the day. Now, we wait.
3:32 p.m.: Nice lateral work from “Rotti”.
3:31 p.m.: Well, Vermiculus just threw down the gauntlet in his four-star debut, earning a 43.9 to take the lead! Only Pavarotti stands in his way for today.
3:30 p.m.: Pavarotti’s last two four-star scores are lower than the leading score today. Can he do it again and steal the show?
3:28 p.m.: We could well see some shuffles between Lauren and Vermiculus and now Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti, who are quite well known for stealing the show on the flat.
3:26 p.m.: No matter how high profile Lauren is, or how many horse she has, Lauren still shows so much love for each horse she sits on.
3:21 p.m.: In 2010, Lauren Kieffer made her CCI4* debut aboard her Anglo-Arab, Snooze Alarm. Today, she enters the ring on his full brother, Vermiculus, whom she purchased as a yearling.
3:20 p.m.: Just two more to see today: Lauren Kieffer and Vermiculus and Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti. Jen McFall scores a 55.7 with High Times. They scored a 71.5 in their debut in 2014, so that is hard work paying off right there!
3:17 p.m.: Jen did a great job holding together a strong Billy, and she looks very pleased at the end. We can’t wait to see this pair on Saturday!
3:16 p.m.: Lol, true story:
Eventers are the nice people of the equestrian world. There ain’t no way hunter/jumper riders tell other competitors how the course rode.
3:07 p.m.: A bit behind on the stretch circle but Truly Wiley has relaxed a bit more throughout the test.
3:01 p.m.: And now we welcome back Kelly Prather to the Rolex Arena, this time with Truly Wiley. Kelly last made an appearance here in 2011 with Ballinakill Glory, where they finished in the top 30.
2:59 p.m.:
Stop by the World Equestrian Brands booth in the @RolexKentucky Trade Fair (#212) at 3:30 for autographs with Hawley Bennett & Sharon White!
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1:57 p.m.: We hate the rein back too, buddy. We get it.
1:55 p.m.: Allison Springer confesses that she’s a “sucker for Connemaras,” aren’t we all!
1:54 p.m.: Next up, Allie Sacksen and the world’s cutest Connemara/TB cross, Sparrow’s Nio. Get to know them here.
1:53 p.m.: A 61.0 for Erin and Mettraise.
1:52 p.m.: So interesting getting tidbits from the commentators. Allison remarks that managing tense horses often involves putting them into a bit lower of a frame, which can then take away from a forward, connected downward transition.
1:51 p.m.: Erin and Mettraise put together a nice looking test even with some tension. They’ll be happy to get on with the fun stuff!
1:46 p.m.: Next up with be Erin Sylvester and Mettraise, making his CCI4* debut. Frankie Thieriot Stutes mentions that is is beginning to rain now.
1:45 p.m.: A very exuberant change! This pair scores a 62.9.
1:43 p.m.: Rox got a little stuck coming off of his left half pass but Kristin is doing a great job here. This is a big, strong horse and Kristin is keeping a lid on any tension quite expertly.
1:41 p.m.: Rox shows off his moves on the extended trot.
1:39 p.m.: “I hope for a lot for (Kristin) this year,” Jimmy says. Kristin and “Rox” really strike a lasting impression together.
1:37 p.m.: A 50.1 puts Selena on her personal best with this horse at Rolex – their official personal best at this level is a 49.5 earned at WEG in 2014. Next up will be Kristin Schmolze and Ballylaffin Bracken.
1:35 p.m.: Selena looks pleased with her test. A couple of tiny mistakes in the canter work but such a nice looking test overall and their final centerline was very smooth.
1:33 p.m.: Woody looking lovely and relaxed in his walk work, which is often quite difficult for these horses. Selena has worked very hard on the flat with this horse, and the work is paying off with some really nice work today.
1:31 p.m.: This is Woody’s fifth CCI4* start. He was 10th here in Kentucky in his debut in 2014 and also represented Canada at WEG in Normandy that year.
1:31 p.m.: And we are back underway with Selena and “Woody”!
1:28 p.m.: Guest commentator Jimmy Wofford says “We don’t have a talent deficit in this country, we have an experience deficit.” John Kyle is joined by Jimmy as well as Allison Springer for the afternoon session.
Good morning from Lexington! We are getting in position for day one of dressage at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, and I could not be more thrilled to watch Kathleen Murray and Ballynoe Castle RM do the test ride at 9:40 a.m. EST. This is a moment not to miss, so I highly suggest pulling up a chair and tuning in!
I’ll be updating this post throughout each ride, so keep refreshing to stay up to date with the latest. I’ll also start a new thread after the lunch break this afternoon, so there is a ton of exciting content coming your way. Enjoy!
12:16 p.m.: And we go to our lunch break with your first 13 horses done for the day. Here is your leaderboard, with Bunnie Sexton in 13th on a score of 68.3. We’ll be back with a new open thread this afternoon at 1:30 p.m. EST, so stay tuned!
12:13 p.m.: Ecko got quite offended coming off of his left half-pass. Bunnie does such a great job taking a breath and asking again without losing composure. We could all learn something from her style and tact. You’ll see she also tries to leave the curb rein alone so as to keep the peace.
12:10 p.m.: “Ecko” is not a fan of the dressage, but if anyone can squeeze points out of this horse, it will be Bunnie with her tactful rider. You will not want to miss this pair on Saturday! Also, Bunnie’s groom, Taylor Ravenscroft, is currently leading our Rolex Groom’s award! Go vote here.
12:09 p.m.: Next in is fan favorite (and my personal hero) Bunnie Sexton and Rise Against. Bunnie is an inspiration to us all, completing her first Rolex at the age of 50. #BeLikeBunnie
12:03 p.m.: Madeline looking so calm and mature beyond her years for her first Rolex test. I remember talking to Madeline in 2013 when she was competing in the Junior Training division with P.S. Arianna, and thinking that this kid was going to go somewhere.
12:01 p.m.: Two of our Rookies are the youngest riders this year: Madeline (21) and Woodge Fulton (22). When I was 21, well, let’s just say that I wasn’t riding at the four-star level. #noviceforthewin
11:37 a.m.: We will now see the first of Boyd Martin’s ride, Lucy Boynton Lie’s Crackerjack. This is the second Rolex start for Crackerjack, who finished 10th at Luhmühlen last year.
11:34 a.m.: Katie Ruppel’s score has been adjusted to a 46.0 which will put her in the lead. Lillian scores a 51.6 with Share Option.
11:33 a.m.: Lillian shows off one of the most stretchy canter circles that we’ve seen so far. I’ve been really interested to see how this movement rides, and so far I’ve noticed that the stretch is a bit difficult to really achieve, but Whitey is really demonstrating a lengthened frame here.
11:28 a.m.: Katie and Houdini earn a 46.1 to tie with Phillip and I’m Sew Ready. This is a personal best at this level, besting their former best of 48.3 in 2016. Next up is Lillian Heard and her first of two, Share Option.
11:26 a.m.: “I think Katie did a great job with him,” coach Clayton Fredericks says of Katie’s ride. He’s had the ride on this horse this spring and Katie has taken the ride back for Rolex.
11:24 a.m.: Houdini says, “Ok, I feel I’ve done enough here, cross country now?” Katie doing a lovely job squeezing every point she can out of her test. This pair is ready to go!
11:22 a.m.: Ok, Houdini is definitely #OTTBgoals. If I could get my little Thoroughbred to move like this for our Training test, that’d be awesome, k thanks.
11:20 a.m.: And we’re back underway with Katie Ruppel and Houdini, an off-track Thoroughbred gelding making his fifth CCI4* start this weekend. Hang onto your hats, it looks a bit windy right now!
11:00 a.m.: Don’t forget to support the online auction for Lee Lee Jones, Phillip Dutton’s stepdaughter. There is so much good stuff to bid on, check it out here.
10:57 a.m.: Rain, rain, stay away! At least it’s not too much on the radar.
10:56 a.m.: A couple of bobbles for Buck and Park Trader but he looks happy and gives the horse big pats after his salute. They earn a 53.6 which will put them into provisional third at the moment. We go onto a short break now and will see Katie Ruppel and Houdini at 11:20.
10:52 a.m.: One tiny bobble in an otherwise lovely extended for “Kobe.”
10:50 a.m.: Buck Davidson nails the first halt with Park Trader and is off to a great start.
10:41 a.m.: New in we will see Will Coleman and his first of two, OBOS O’Reilly, a 14-year-old Irish gelding contesting his second CCI4*. He was sixth here in 2015.
10:33 a.m.: And we’re getting underway with our first U.S. competitor of the day with Phillip Dutton and John and Kristine Norton’s I’m Sew Ready. This is the first CCI4* for this horse, but we should be in for a treat right now.
10:29 a.m.: Ok, Reggie/Kathleen obsession done (for now). Back to your regularly scheduled programming.
10:32 a.m.: Joe looks thrilled! Some really nice moments from Clip Clop in a very difficult test on a windy and what looks to be a bit chilly of a day!
10:23 a.m.: Jessie has an error after missing her canter stretch circle. A Little Romance is looking a little short and tense in the canter work, but if anyone can coax relaxation out of a horse, it’s Jessie.
10:19 a.m.: Next in is Canada’s Jessica Phoenix and her first of three, A Little Romance. This is Jessie’s 2016 Olympic mount.
10:17 a.m.: A 56.7 for James and Parker to get us started. If you want to follow along with the new CCI4* Test A, click here. This is a personal best for this pair at the level; their previous lowest score was a 62.5 in 2012. Well done!
10:16 a.m.: James demonstrates a new movement in this test, the stretch canter circle. This will be an interesting movement to watch for these super fit event horses! James looks pleased with this test, which commentator Liz Halliday-Sharp remarked was one of the more relaxed she’s ever seen this horse do.
10:12 a.m.: So far looking cool and collected for this pair, who is one of the most experienced in their field. This is their seventh CCI4* start.
10:11 a.m.: James Alliston and Parker are getting us underway! James has pinned the tails of his shadbelly today to try and keep Parker as relaxed as possible.
9:49 a.m.: We will be back in just about 20 minutes with the first competitive ride of the day, James Alliston and Parker!
9:47 a.m. : And, I’m ugly crying. The cheers. THANK YOU, EN, for filling this stadium for this ride. It means so much to the BDJ camp and the Segal family.
9:42 a.m.: Looking like the pros they are. If you missed this special story, catch up here.
9:40 a.m.: And entering Rolex Stadium, Kathleen Murray and Ballynoe Castle RM. Reggie has his game face on, and I am crying. This is not going to be pretty (for me, not Kathleen. You do your thing, girl).
What would we do without super grooms? Photo by Samantha Clark.
In lieu of a Best Dressed vote this year for Rolex Kentucky, EN is saluting the hardworking grooms who spent hours making their charges look perfect for today’s jog. With that in mind, we’re delighted to announce that this year we’ll be awarding our inaugural Rolex Groom’s Award, with prizes from our friends at SmartPak, Athletux and Cavalor.
The EN team has chosen our finalists, and now it’s up to you to help us decide the winner. The winning groom will receive a brand new Athletux backpack stuffed with Athletux goodies, as well as a $100 SmartPak gift card. The second placed groom will receive a prize bucket full of goodies from Cavalor. Consider it a small token of our thanks for making the equines of Rolex look so darn perfect!
This was not an easy decision as each horse looked absolutely stunning, so to all the grooms we say well done and thank you for your hard work and dedication to these equine athletes. The poll to choose the winner will close tomorrow at 3 p.m. EST, so get those votes in early and we will announce the winner after the poll closes.
The veterinary inspections at three-day events is always one for the fashion books — because every once in awhile we all like to pretend that we aren’t perpetually covered in slobber and horse hair and can actually apply make-up like a normal person. The first horse inspection is always a fashion show for both horses and riders at Rolex, and here is a round-up from around social media today. And remember, we will be going a social media roundup each day, so be sure to use #RK3DE on your posts so that we can include yours!
It’s officially go time at the 2017 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by Land Rover! The EN team is all in place and we’re all set to bring you the absolute best coverage of #RK3DE that you can find on the internet. As we post this, horses and riders dressed to the nines are lining up ready to preset to the Ground Jury for the First Horse Inspection.
For those of you following along at home, we’ll be doing open threads like this one for each phase of competition, and you can also find ways to watch online here. Enjoy, and keep refreshing this page for live updates from the official first day of Rolex!
4:20 p.m.: And just like that, we are underway here at Rolex Kentucky! Just one pair, Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights, will not move on to competition. Stay tuned for the full report!
4:20 p.m.: That was intense. Had to let my heart rate subside a bit! Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato are ACCEPTED upon reinspection! Big sigh of relief and big pats for Capato!
4:14 p.m.: Jordan is heading back down to re-present now.
4:14 p.m.: Big shout-out to Frankie Thieriot Stutes, our commentator for today’s jog!
4:09 p.m.: Pfun is accepted. Look at that vision in white!! *heart eye emoji*
4:08 p.m.: Doug Payne and Vandiver are accepted! Just two more to go, including Will Faudree with Pfun. Will is definitely going for best dressed this year in all white!
4:07 p.m.: Ringwood Sky Boy makes Tim jump a couple of flower pots on the way back down the strip but they’re accepted. Next up, Doug Payne and Vandiver.
4:06 p.m.: Dang it. Jordan sent to the hold box. For anyone experiencing technical difficulties with the feed, the USEF Network is aware and working on it! Tim Price with Ringwood Sky Boy will present next.
4:05 p.m.: Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF are accepted. Next up, Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato, who looks stunning as always.
4:03 p.m.: Another Rookie pair, Woodge Fulton and Captain Jack, are accepted!
4:03 p.m.: All hail the queen!
Two-time winners Michael Jung and fischerRocana FST accepted #RK3DE
3:58 p.m.: Fernhill Classic would much rather gaze longingly at cross country than stand for the Ground Jury. Good thing he is accepted, not long to go now my friend!
3:55 p.m.: Sharon White and the stunning Cooley On Show are accepted. The horses have all been remarkably well behaved today! Come on ponies, my GIF-making fingers are itchy!
3:54 p.m.:
Aidan Keogh and Master Tredstep accepted for Ireland #RK3DE 🇮🇪
3:51 p.m.: Ellen Doughty-Hume has to sprint to keep up with Sir Oberon, but they’re accepted! Next up is Bobby Meyerhoff and Dunlavin’s Token, who is contesting his final Rolex this weekend. Bobby had a cross country fall a couple of weeks ago and is recovering from broken ribs and a collapsed lung. When I texted him to ask if he was still going to Kentucky, he said, “Well, yeah…” Dumb question, Bobby, my bad.
3:51 p.m.:
Sir Oberon accepted with Ellen Doughty-Hume #rk3de
3:43 p.m.: Liz Halliday-Sharp and a very keen Fernhill By Night are accepted, as are Lauren Kieffer and Vermiculus. Next up is Holly Payne Caravella with Never OutFoxed.
3:41 p.m.: Another West Coast pair in to present now, Jen McFall and High Times. They’re accepted and looking sharp!
#RK3DE 🇫🇷 Qalao des Mers accepté à la visite vétérinaire !
Rdv demain jeudi à 19h46 heure française pour sa reprise de dressage ! pic.twitter.com/K4ZQN1zU1D
3:33 p.m.: Colleen Rutledge has withdrawn Covert Rights from the hold box.
3:32 p.m.: Work that hat, Allie!
3:30 p.m.: Hey, can I tell you a secret? We’re doing the first ever EN Best Turned Out Poll this year in lieu of a Best Dressed. Those hard working grooms next some recognition for making these horses absolutely gleam! Stay tuned for more. Meanwhile, Erin and Mettraise are accepted and are followed by Allie Sacksen and Sparrow’s Nio, a Connemara/TB.
3:28 p.m.: Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High accepted, moving on to Kristin Schmolze and Ballylaffin Bracken, aka my favorite horse name ever. “Rox” is also the biggest horse in the field, at 17.3 hands. He’s accepted and next up is Erin Sylvester and Mettraise.
3:25 p.m.: What must it feel like to walk onto the jog strip for the first time as a Rolex Rookie? We’d love to be inside Madeline Backus’ head right now as she presents P.S. Arianna!
3:24 p.m.: Who’s A Star gave Sally Cousins’ Tsunami the side eye (or maybe a good luck nod?) on the way off of the jog strip after being accepted with Courtney Cooper.
3:22 p.m.: Boyd’s two, Crackerjack and Steady Eddie are accepted. Covert Rights has been sent to the hold box with Colleen Rutledge.
3:19 p.m.: Lillian is accepted with both horses, now it’s Boyd Martin up to present.
3:17 p.m.: Katie Ruppel and Houdini are accepted, and now it’s a very spring festive Lillian Heard with her two mounts, Share Option and LCC Barnaby. Fun fact: Share Option can speak on command!
3:15 p.m.: Petite Flower looks cool as a cucumber for Buck as she is the last to be accepted of his three. Next up is Katie Ruppel and her OTTB Houdini.
3:13 p.m.: Will Coleman and his two handsome mounts accepted, and now it’s Buck Davidson with his three horses. He’s got his lucky socks on!
3:11 p.m.:
Fernhill Fugitive, 12- year-old ISH ridden by Philip Dutton, passes the horse inspection at Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. pic.twitter.com/J7fltF3Q52
3:08 p.m.: We’d like to extend a big EN welcome back to Mr. Medicott, who is competing in his first CCI4* since 2014. All of Phillip’s horses are accepted and we’re moving on to Will Coleman with his two rides, OBOS O’Reilly and Tight Lines.
3:05 p.m.: All of Jessica’s mounts accepted! Now it’s Joe Meyer and Clip Clop, who is looking stunning and absolutely fighting fit. Next up is Phillip Dutton with his three horses.
3:05 p.m.:
Bentleys Best with a little spunk, Accepted! #RK3DE
The eventing community has been buzzing ever since Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson posted this photo on Instagram over the weekend. Of course, we couldn’t resist asking Will Coleman what “The Rock” is like. “He’s just a great dude and loves horses,” Will told EN. As if we weren’t already huge fans of The Rock, how cool is it to know that one of Hollywood’s biggest stars is just as horse crazy as the rest of us?
We also have to send a special shout out to Will, who is competing two horses at a CCI4* for the first time in his career. “It’s a big deal for us, the owners and my sponsors to have both OBOS O’Reilly and Tight Lines entered at Rolex, and we’re really excited for the week ahead.” Best of luck to Will, Katie, Oboe and Phish!
It’s official! Jennie Brannigan will ride Joshua G in the Maryland Hunt Cup this Saturday, April 29 at 4 p.m. EST. Thirteen horses are entered in the 4-mile race, which is considered one of the most prestigious timber races in the country. The EN team is sending our very best wishes to Jennie, trainer Kathy Neilson and owner Armata Stable. You can read much more about Jennie’s foray into timber racing here. Maryland Hunt Cup Field
Today is the last day to enter the 2017 Dubarry Nations Team Challenge #RK3DE Fantasy League! Up for grabs to the winning team owner is a pair of Dubarry boots from our friends at SmartPak, so you’ll definitely want to set yours up. Just select one team of four riders to compete against your friends this weekend. Entries will be locked tonight at 10 p.m.! Dubarry #RK3DE Fantasy League
This blog about heart horses really hit home with us.Chronicle of the Horse blogger Meghan Holland talks about her love for a special mare named Pretty Soon. You’ll definitely be holding back (or letting loose) the tears for this one. The Ones We Love Never Really Leave Us
Tuesday Video:
Get a taste for cross country action with this look at the Advanced cross country at Belton Park:
It wouldn’t be Rolex week without some proper hype, so let’s get things cooking with this awesome video compiled by Photography In Stride featuring some of the stars of the show from 2016. Relive all of the moments and get ready to share in some new ones in just a few days’ time!
As always, we’ll be bringing you the best Rolex coverage there ever was all week, so keep it locked down right here on EN. Click here to catch up on all of our coverage so far.
Allison Springer and Arthur at Rolex. Photo by Jenni Autry.
After Allison Springer announced the retirement of her longtime partner, Arthur, last week, she confirmed today what his throngs of fans were hoping. She and Arthur will ride their final CCI4* dressage test together in the Rolex Stadium as an exhibition ride, the last ride of the day on Friday.
The dressage has truly been one of the hallmarks of Arthur’s career, with many top placings following phase one of competition thanks to his natural prowess in the sand box.
One of our favorite “Allithur” moments, Rolex 2014.
Click here to catch up on all of EN’s pre-Rolex coverage, and keep it locked right here as we bring you the most extensive coverage of America’s premier event. Go Eventing.
This may not be breaking news to some, but judging by the fact that I am just now getting wind of this, I figured I wasn’t the only one who didn’t know. Michael Jung has an Instagram account. And he’s posting photos from Rolex!
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No, it’s not just a fan page. It’s a bona fide, legitimate Instagram account and the inner social media stalker in us all is finally breathing a happy little sigh of relief.
Not only do we get a glimpse into the daily life of Mr. Jung, we get to catch up with the horses he competes in pure show jumping as well as his eventers. We also get to play fly on the wall with some behind the scenes intel from his home base in Germany. Basically, we couldn’t be much happier.
It’s promising to be an exciting year at The Event at Rebecca Farm this year, with both the National Junior and Young Rider Championships, multiple FEI divisions through a CCI3* as well as Horse Trials running all in one action packed week in beautiful Kalispell, Montana.
Rebecca Farm just released a preview video for this year’s event, and we can’t wait until July! Mark your calendars for July 19-23 for one of the literal best weekends all year. Go Eventing!
The title of this video says it all: Eventing on the West Coast is on a whole new level of cool. Sometimes I still can’t quite believe that I get to be a very small part of it, so this one really rings true.
Many thanks to Ellie Leonard for once again capturing the spirit of one of the biggest events of the spring at Twin Rives Ranch in Paso Robles. Enjoy!
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I had a conversation with a friend last night who somehow, magically, braided a whopping 54 horses over the weekend at Twin Rivers. I messaged her and asked how in the world she managed that, which she replied to with a Snapchat of some completed braids around 4 a.m. Somehow, she’s gotten her timing down to a science and was able to, sleep notwithstanding, get all 54 horses braided beautifully. If that isn’t dedication and love for the sport, I’m not sure what is. Just one of the many things I love about this sport and the people in it.
The 2017 Event at Rebecca Farm has officially opened for volunteer opportunities. If you’ve never had the chance to attend this incredible event, this is the perfect opportunity to do so. No prior experience needed! [Rebecca Farm Needs Volunteers]
The Heart of the Carolinas (HOTC) Three-Day Event and Horse Trials is pleased to announce Arbor One Farm Credit as the Volunteer Appreciation Sponsor for the May 3-7, 2017 event at Southern 8ths Farm in Chesterfield, SC. This is an awesome opportunity to show our appreciation for hard working volunteers! [Southern 8ths Farm]
With the announcement of the $1,000,000 Wilton Fair Fund this week, here’s a look back at this wonderful horse’s career. [#TBT: Wilton Fair]
Tuesday Video:
A look at some of the craziest conditions Fair Hill has ever seen, featuring Wlton Fair himself:
Oliver Townend and Cooley Master Class. Photo by Julie Walker/MEM.
In the second leg of the Shearwater Insurance Tri-Star Grand Slam, Oliver Townend and Cooley Master Class were the CIC3* winners at the Barefoot Estates Burnham Market International.
The Shearwater Insurance Tri-Star Grand Slam is a winner take-all concept running over five events. The grand slam winner would need to win three out of five of the events for a total prize of £50,000.
This was also a big weekend for Oliver on a personal record level, as this is his fifth consecutive CIC3* at Burnham since 2014.
The first competition for the Grand Slam this year was Belton International, which was won by Izzy Taylor and KBIS Starburst. This weekend, it was Oliver Townend with the 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by Angela Hislop who took home the top honors in the CIC3* on a final score of 40.2.
“Burnham Market is always the first event of the year where I really aim to be competitive,” Oliver said. “I trust the ground, I trust the course designer, I trust everything about the place. I think running here sets my horses up for what’s to come later in the season.”
It was a top weekend for Oliver, not just in the CIC3* but also the Advanced, Intermediate and one of the Novice divisions, all of which he took home first place.
Oliver was closely followed by Piggy French and Vanir Kamira, second on a final score of 42.8. Andrew Nicholson brought up third place aboard Byrnesgrove First Diamond, a 9-year-old Irish horse who improved on his first CIC3* start at Belton by over 20 points.
Andrew Nicholson at Burnham Market. Photo courtesy of the Burnham press office.
The next leg of the Grand Slam will be Houghton International at the end of May, which will also play host of a Nations Cup event. Look for much more from Houghton as some of our U.S. team members will be traveling to compete, including Caroline Martin and Mackenna Shea on the first stop of their Karen Stives European tour.
It’s like Christmas! With just under two weeks to go until the first horse leaves the start box in Kentucky at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, we’re delighted that a sneak peek course preview has been released for our viewing pleasure.
Join Samantha Clark and course designer extraordinaire Derek di Grazia as well as TD Tom Ryckewaert to check out some of what’s in store for the horses and riders this year; it’s always an exciting time when a course designer’s vision is brought to life.
Check it out and comment: what question are you going to be sure to watch this year?
Phillip Dutton and Mr. Candyman. Photo by Julieann Prettyman.
Phillip Dutton once again showed why he’s one of the best in the business today on cross country at Fair Hill, picking up the win in the CIC3* as well as second place aboard Mr. Candyman and Z, respectively. Time was tricky, and no one in the division made it but Phillip turned in two of the quickest rounds of the day to cement the win and move up from third with Z.
Phillip Dutton and Z. Photo by Julieann Prettyman.
Mr Candyman finished on a final score of 54.5 followed by his stablemate on a 55.7. Moving up from fourth into third is Erin Sylvester and Paddy the Caddy, who made his three-star debut this weekend.
Erin Sylvester also had a rocking day in the Advanced, picking up the win with Campground, a 10-year-old Thoroughbred gelding owned by Marnie Kelly who completed the CCI3* at Fair Hill last fall in the top 25. Campground will finish the weekend on a final score of 43.2, followed by Boyd Martin with Steady Eddie (43.7) and Cracker Jack (44.3) in second and third positions.
Moving to the West Coast, Mackenna Shea and Landioso are your winners of the CIC3* at Twin Rivers, making quick work of today’s cross country to come home with 7.2 time and the win on a final score of 66.7. Tamie Smith and Kevin Baumgardner’s Wembley finished in second position, followed by Robyn Fisher and Carol Singh’s Betawave.
Rolex bound James Alliston and Parker are your Advanced winners at Twin, finishing on a final score of 47.8 for their last prep before heading to Kentucky. This pair hardly needs any introduction, as they will be contesting their seventh Rolex together this year after finishing in the top 30 in 2016.
Emily Pestl-Dimmitt and Michelle Pestl’s Arlington picked up time today and moved into second place to finish the weekend, followed by Sabrina Glaser and Patricia Yust’s Rembrandt.
We’ll be putting together a social media recap from all of the big events this weekend, so be sure to tag your posts at the event location to be included! Go eventing.
We’re sad to report today that Carrick, John Williams’ 2004 Olympic partner, was euthanized yesterday from health complications at the age of 25.
“He was in no pain and it was all very peaceful,” Ellen Chaney said. Carrick has been under her care for almost 22 years and has spent his retirement at her farm in Southern Pines. “His longtime companion, Sloopy, stood near. Carrick was incredible: wise, kind, arrogant, generous. He has left a huge void here.”
Sloopy and Carrick enjoying a graze together. Photo courtesy of Ellen Chaney.
John and Carrick finished 28th individually at the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens for Team USA, which finished on the podium in bronze. Together they also finished fourth individually at the 2002 World Equestrian Games in Spain as members of the gold medal winning Team USA consisting of John, Kimberly Vinoski and Winsome Adante, David O’Connor on Giltedge, and Amy Tryon on Poggio II.
Carrick was a true blue cross country machine, with no cross country jump penalties on his FEI record which includes a second place finish at Rolex Kentucky in 2002 as well as a fourth place finish at Burghley in 2003.
We’d like to thank Carrick for the special memories as one of the greats of our sport. Rest in peace, old friend.
Please leave your tributes and memories to Carrick in the comments section of this article.
Phillip Dutton and Mr. Candyman. Photo by Jenni Autry.
Phillip Dutton and Mr Candyman are your leaders in the CIC3* at Fair Hill today after moving up to take the lead following a double clear show jumping round. Phillip and the 10-year-old Holsteiner gelding owned by Ann Jones, Bridget Colman, Caroline Moran and Tom Tierney earned a 48.9 in the dressage to sit behind early leaders Boyd Martin and Bonito.
Ryan Wood and Powell will be in second looking ahead to cross country with one rail added today for a total penalty score of 50.7, followed by Phillip again on Z, who remains on his dressage score of 50.9.
There is also a 4* Combined Test going on at Fair Hill this weekend for those putting the finishing touches on their Rolex preparations, and we have a tie for the leaders after dressage on a score of 46.5: Colleen Rutledge with fan favorite Covert Rights, tied with Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF.
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Looking to the Advanced at Fair Hill, Boyd Martin is in control after two phases, moving up from sixth with a double clear show jumping round to remain on a score of 34.9. Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby also had a clear round that was rewarded with a move up, from seventh into second on a 35.2. Third place will be Ryan Wood and Fernhill Classic on a score of 34.5. Several of the Advanced horses are heading for Rolex next, so expect a nice easy run tomorrow as a final fitness run and tune-up for many of these pairs.
Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal. Photo by Sally Spickard.
On the West Coast, Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal are your CIC3* leaders on a score of 47.9. This is the first CIC3* start for “Rory”, who completed the Young Event Horse Championships at Le Lion d’Angers last year in the top 25.
In second are Mackenna Shea and Landioso, who are recipients of this year’s Karen Stives Eventing Endowment Fund from the USEF this year and will tackle the Houghton Hall CICO3* and Bramham CCI3*-U25, will be your second placed pair on a score of 50.5.
Robyn Fisher and Betawave, another alumni of the Le Lion d’Angers CCI2* last year, are closely in third on a 50.6.
The CIC3* will show jump this afternoon beginning at 4:55 p.m. PST, and you can watch the action thanks to Ride On Video’s live stream here.
Hannah Sue Burnett and RF Demeter. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.
Ocala International is also running a CCI4* CT this weekend, and Hannah Sue Burnett and RF Demeter have taken the lead on a 41.3 following dressage. Not one to outdo herself, Hannah Sue also holds second and third aboard Under Suspection (41.8) and Harbour Pilot (45.0) heading into show jumping this afternoon.
The hotly anticipated FEI divisions at Ocala are quite large and competitive this weekend, and Liz Halliday-Sharp will be your early leader in the CCI2* with Deniro Z on a score of 36.1, the only score in the 30s of the field. This is the first CCI2* run for Deniro Z, who has won two CIC2*s this year already.
Doug Payne and Getaway, a 10-year-old Oldenburg gelding by Contendro owned by Lisa Wall, are your second placed pair on a score of 40.3. This is also the first CCI2* start for Getaway.
Buck Davidson completes the top three on Victor B Z, a 7-year-old Zangersheide gelding owned by Buck and Carl Segal. Victor B Z finished in the top 10 in the end of the year CCI1* at Hagyard Midsouth last year and this year has had several competitive placings at the Preliminary and Intermediate levels.
Megan Lynn and The Natural E. Photo courtesy of Becky Young.
And finally, we’d like to congratulate Megan Lynn and The Natural E for besting a ginormous CCI1* division to win the dressage on a score of 38.1, one of just two scores in the 30s. It’s no small feat to win the dressage in general, and to win it in grand fashion over a seriously deep field is a big one! Time will tell how the remainder of the weekend plays out, but enjoy that feeling Megan!
We’ll bring you much more from Fair Hill, Twin Rivers and Ocala over the weekend, so keep it locked right here!
Kyle Carter and Madison Park. Photo by Sally Spickard.
Kyle Carter posted a video announcement on his Facebook page yesterday that Madison Park, his upper level partner of many years, will be retired from upper level competition rather than competing at Rolex or Badminton this year.
“Parker” is 19 this year, and together he and Kyle have completed six CCI4* events, including the 2008 Summer Olympics in Hong Kong and the 2010 World Equestrian Games, representing Canada. Kyle and Madison Park finished fifth individually at the 2007 Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro as members of the silver medal winning Canadian team.
Parker also boasts an incredible comeback on his CV, successfully rehabbing from an injury sustained at Blenheim in 2011 to continue on to compete at the top levels of the sport.
In all, Parker has 35 FEI competitions on his record, the majority of which are three-star competitions. In 2016, he finished 34th at Rolex and this year finished 16th in the Advanced at Rocking Horse Winter II.
We would like to wish Parker the happiest of retirements, though Kyle has said that the Thoroughbred gelding isn’t done competing altogether — we’ll likely see him out playing at the Prelim and Intermediate level, with perhaps an Advanced scattered in for fun.
Don’t forget, entries are now open for our 2017 Dubarry of Ireland Rolex Nations Team Challenge Fantasy League! You can select your four team members all the way up until the morning of the First Horse Inspection, and the grand prize up for grabs is a pair of Dubarry boots from our friends at SmartPak! [2017 RK3DE Fantasy League]
The O’Connor Equestrian Eventing Camp is now accepting entries! Confirmed instructors include Karen and David O’Connor, and Cathy Wieschhoff. Campers rotate among all instructors and ride in small groups to ensure each student receives individualized attention. Top level grooms, who assist with horsemanship and lectures, will be available to answer questions regarding stable management and horse care. [O’Connor Eventing Camp]
Big news! The USEA will be offering new Worth the Trust Sports Psychology Scholarships in 2017. The Worth the Trust Sports Psychology Scholarships will be available for the first time this year for Adult Amateurs and Young Adult Amateurs. The first Worth the Trust Sports Psychology Scholarship will be awarded at the 2017 USEA Annual Meeting and Convention, December 5-10, 2017 in Long Beach, Calif. The deadline for this inaugural award is October 2, 2017. [Worth the Trust Sports Psychology Scholarship]
Tuesday Video:
Here’s a great throwback to the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, and if you watch you’ll catch a glimpse of Kyle Carter and Madison Park:
