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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 News & Notes from Cavalor

By on Mar 22, 2016 12:01 am -
Emily Beshear and Shame On the Moon at Carolina International in 2014. Photo by Sally Spickard. Emily Beshear and Shame On the Moon at Carolina International in 2014. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Carolina International kicks off this week and we are excited to be bringing you, as always, the latest and greatest coverage right here on EN. Carolina is a personal favorite event of mine. It holds the promise of the new season as Rolex competitors finish knocking the rust off and start to put their pedal to the metal, and it gives us a glimpse at up and coming pairs to watch in years to come.

We’re also excited that EqSportsNet will be hosting a live stream of all three phases from Carolina Horse Park this weekend. Stay tuned for full details on the stream, as well as much more from Carolina.

Events Opening This Week:

Heart of the Carolinas 3-Day Event & H.T. (SC, A-3),  Penny Oaks H.T. (IN, A-8),  Greenwood Farm, Inc. H.T. (TX, A-5),  MCTA H.T., Inc (MD, A-2),  Poplar Place Farm May H.T. (GA, A-3),  King Oak Farm Spring H.T. (MA, A-1),  The Event at Skyline (UT, A-9)

Events Closing Today:

CDCTA Spring Horse Trials (VA, A-2),  Chattahoochee Hills H.T. (GA, A-3),  Pine Hill Spring H.T. (TX, A-5),  The Fork CIC3*/CIC2*/CIC1* & HT (NC, A-2),  Spring Bay H.T. (KY, A-8)

News & Notes:

Kentucky Equine Research and EN are teaming up to host the Great KER Fitness Challenge this spring! Download the free KER ClockIt Sport app for your phone and record your rides for a chance to win a $100 gift card to shop.kerx.com, an EcoGold Secure XC Saddle Pad, a lesson with your choice of Bruce Davidson, Liz Halliday-Sharp, or Dom or Jimmie Schramm; and feature story about you and your horse on EN. [Contest Details]

Does your horse have an inspiring story about coming back from a serious injury or illness? OCD Pellets wants to hear all about it! Send in your rehab to [email protected] for a chance to win an OCD prize pack (2-month supply of OCD Pellets, 1-month supply of COS Canine, and an OCD Pellets hat and T-shirt). Entries close Monday, May 2, 2016, and the story that receives the most views on EN will win. [Contest Details]

Morven Park is seeking volunteers for its event on April 2 and 3. To sign up for your preferred position, visit the Sign Up Genius link listed here. [Morven Park Volunteers]

As we all know in this sport, it’s the heart of both horse and rider that matter the most at the end of the day. Don’t miss this touching blog from Suzanne Adams on the USEA that speaks to this point. Anyone who is the parent of an event rider (or even a trainer!) can relate to every point in this article. [It’s the Heart That Matters]

Looking for some braiding tips? Our sister site, Jumper Nation, has the skinny. These may be hunter braids, but there are tips to learn for all here. Check these out, and take yourself on a self-guided tour of the snazzy new member of Nation Media! [Warp Speed Main Braiding]

Tuesday Video:

Here’s a little throwback to Carolina International 2015 to get you ready for this weekend!

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: Amazing Save at Loch Moy

By on Mar 21, 2016 5:00 pm -

EN reader Jamie Hood sent us the shots and video of her great save while competing Beginner Novice at Loch Moy over the weekend. Jamie’s horse, Charade, took a stagger step as they approached the last fence on course.

Jamie kept her wits about her as her horse decided to jump anyway, essentially dismounting and remounting in mid air! Check out the video:

Jamie is a part of the Red Hawke Eventing team, training with Mary Macklin in Mount Airy, Maryland. We’re not sure where Jamie learned those save skills, but we’re certainly impressed!

Go Eventing.

Carrie Landry’s Our Questionnaire Dies After Pasture Accident

By on Mar 21, 2016 3:07 pm -
Heather Gillette and Our Questionnaire at Red Hills in 2013. Photo by Samantha Clark. Heather Gillette and Our Questionnaire at Red Hills in 2013. Photo by Samantha Clark.

It is with great sadness that we report that Carrie Landry’s Our Questionnaire, the former upper-level partner of Heather Gillette, has died following a pasture accident. Despite the best efforts of his surgical team, Questie is sadly no longer with us and will be remembered as a fierce cross country competitor who campaigned at the upper levels with Heather for several years.

Heather posted on her Facebook page earlier today that “Questie” was in surgery after fracturing his elbow and dislocating his foreleg. “He is the most courageous fellow as he made it through the night, loaded onto the trailer this morning like a champ, and is fighting to stay alive,” Heather wrote. “He is STILL looking for MINTS! So far the surgery is going well. His days of going cross country will be over but his days of being loved by his new mom will hopefully be many.”

Our Questionnaire completed eight three-star competitions and started at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day event twice in 2011 and 2013. His FEI career highlights include a top-10 finish in the CCI3* at Jersey Fresh in 2010 and a sixth place finish in the CIC3* at Rebecca Farm in 2011.

Questie is off to the great cross country course in the sky. Goodbye my dear friend.

Posted by Heather Gillette on Monday, March 21, 2016

Most recently, the 20-year-old Thoroughbred gelding competed at the Novice level with his owner Carrie Landry, picking up a third place finish at the Nutrena American Eventing Championships in 2014.

We’re extending our condolences to Heather, Carrie and all others who were impacted by another special horse gone too soon. Rest in peace, Questie.

USEA Reponds to FEI’s Proposed Changes to Eventing

By on Mar 21, 2016 1:30 pm -

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On the heels of a response from the United States Equestrian Federation in regard to the radical changes proposed by the FEI for the sport of eventing, the USEA has also published their response in a point by point format.

“The USEA typically defers to the USEF on topics directly related to Olympic and International Competition and the USEA Board of Governors believes that the USEF has done a thorough and admirable job in outlining the issues with the FEI proposals as presented. We encourage the FEI to examine the USEF responses closely,” the USEA states in a release. “The USEA has chosen to respond to this invitation for input with the sole purpose of adding more voices to the chorus to ensure that the integrity and safety of the sport are not irreconcilably altered. It is with this background that we write with concern regarding several of the proposals currently being considered by the FEI.”

“The USEA agrees that more work needs to be done to better market and translate the sport to the general public, however, those efforts should not include the dismantling of the sport to a point that it no longer embodies the principles on which it was established.”

The following is a summary of the USEA’s response, the full text of which can be found here. You can also read the full summary of this response on the USEA by clicking here.

COMPETITION LEVELS & FORMATS

For the 2017 competition year the USEA and the USEF will introduce a new National level of competition termed “Modified.” This level was established for the same purposes as outlined by the FEI for the 1.05-meter level and will feature similar obstacle heights as proposed.

An adjustment to the star rating would be understandable although we would recommend against using the word “Classics” to describe the CCI4* competition. The term “Classics” in the United States refers to traditional long format competitions, with all four phases of the endurance day run, held at the National level.

We would encourage a different name be considered such as “Worlds”, “Masters”, “Experts” or a synonym of those words denoting the level as the highest within the sport.

POSITIVE SCORING

The weight of the score by test should not further erode the importance of the endurance (cross-country) phase of the competition. Cross-country is the heart and soul of the sport of Eventing.

As described in the FEI summary document it appears that a country could field a team of three horse and rider pairs and opt to skip the cross-country phase of the competition and still be considered to have completed the competition. We strongly oppose such a change as it would irrevocably harm the integrity of the sport.

RENAMING THE DISCIPLINE

Of all of the proposals suggested this perhaps generates the largest negative response from our general membership. In the words of the USEF, “It is not the name but the promotion of the identity of the sport, which is linked to that name, which is more important. Is adopting a new name going to change anything or just further divide the community and confuse the public?”

A substantial amount of funding would need to be spent by national governing bodies, related businesses and Associations (such as the USEA) should a name change be enacted. Trademarks, licensing and copyrights would need to be re-established for the whole sport to realign with this name change and retain a unified marketing message on all levels.

Marketing would need to be put in place to draw a connection between the sport under its new nomenclature, especially in areas where the name “Eventing” has had commercial success with the general public.

For this reason, we recommend that this change not be made without due consideration of its economic effects, and that no change be made unless and until such analysis shows it to have a potential positive economic impact upon our sport.

Additional points related to the FEI document entitled Session 6 – Olympic Competition Format.

Traditional Order of Tests

Differing opinions exist within the sport on this topic. We ask that enough flexibility exist within the rules to allow for events to tailor the order of each of the tests to best suit the conditions under which they operate and the clientele they serve.

MAXIMUM of three riders per nation

In its explanation for the proposal of limiting the number of riders per nation to three the FEI states that its intent is to address the main objective of “a more open and inclusive competition.” It is counterintuitive to suggest that by reducing the number of riders allowed to compete that a competition could be more open and inclusive.

Under the current structure of four riders per team with one drop score a nation is able supply a team of three riders. So this change simply reduces the number of riders allowed to compete and thereby limits the potential diversity of field.

The only actual accomplishment of limiting teams to three riders and removing the drop score is that there will be more pressure on each team to complete even in the case of an unprepared or physically compromised horse or rider. This raises huge concerns about the safety of the sport and the welfare of our horses.

CONCLUSION

Rule changes without thorough consideration and impact assessment may have the opposite effect of its original intention. We must constantly probe and confirm the desired outcome of proposed rule changes and carefully judge if such changes are worthwhile.

Should the FEI move forward with all of the proposals as outlined and deviate from the recommendations as outlined by the USEF, the USEA and other major National Governing Bodies of the sport, we will need to reconsider whether risking the integrity of the sport of Eventing justifies remaining a part of the Olympic Games.

[USEA Responds to Proposed FEI Changes]

Big News! SmartPak Now Offers Two-Day Shipping to West Coast

By on Mar 21, 2016 1:00 pm -

Ever seen a tape gun smoking? You will now, as SmartPak is now offering “the fastest shipping in the West” with new two-day shipping available to the West coast. This is a big development for those who are on the West coast who are SmartPak fans — now your spending addition is even more easily fueled!

So get to shopping EN, and worry not about receiving your items quickly. SmartPak is here to help!

Spring Has Sprung! Grab One of These Working Student Positions [Updated 3/30]

By on Mar 20, 2016 3:00 pm -
Working students totally have all the fun. Photo courtesy of Meg Kep. Working students totally have all the fun. Photo courtesy of Meg Kep.

Spring is here! Riders and trainers, if you’re looking for a working student and have a listing you’d like to add, please email [email protected]. To future working students, happy job hunting!

Hawley Bennett-Awad (CA): Hawley Bennett Eventing, located in Temecula, California, is interviewing for a Head Groom/working student position opening as of April 1st. Duties to include grooming for Canadian Team member Hawley Bennett, organizing horses and equipment for events, helping with turn in, feeding, general care of barn, assisting with jump schooling of horses, learning how to set jump courses, vet care as required, hacking and fitness work. Individuals must be self motivated, reliable, hard working, have good ethics, be willing to travel to events, have the ability to work on your own, have strong organizational skills and have a happy, cheerful and positive attitude. In exchange you will be given daily lessons, free shipping for one horse to events, the chance to learn excellent horse husbandry, travel to many local, out of state and possibly out of country events. Pony Club or eventing experience is a plus. You will also have a chance to ride horses at various levels as your skills develop. Your costs would be stall board if you choose to bring your own horse to learn and develop on. Many extras are available to you and your horse such as magnetic blanket, revita vet therapies and, Euro sizer on property. All applicants must be 18 years old and position commitment of a minimum of 6 months. Please expect a 6 day work week within barn hours. There is an apartment available on property for rent if housing is required. Please send resume and references to [email protected].

Courtney Cooper (PA): Leading sales barn and home to upper level event rider, Courtney Cooper and her team at C Square Farm have an immediate opening for a working student position at their farm in Nottingham, Pennsylvania. The team is returning home after a very successful winter in Aiken, South Carolina competing and selling horses. One of our wonderful working students is headed home so we currently have an opening for a responsible and reliable individual. Working students will receive expert instruction from an Advanced-level competitor along with exposure to many aspects of the horse business. Learn the ins-and-outs about running a successful breeding operation, sale horse program and upper level competition. Housing is provided and benefits could include board for one horse, although a horse is not required. Opportunities to ride other horses based on your ability may be available. A positive attitude and great character are required. If an opportunity like this appeals to you, please contact Courtney at [email protected] to discuss further details. Please include your resume and riding video.

Phyllis Dawson (VA): Phyllis Dawson is looking for a long-term working student at Windchase beginning in early 2016. Receive daily lessons, full board for your horse, experience riding multiple horses, housing, and shipping to competitions, a package with a value of over $3,000 per month — in return for barn work and horse care. You will be part of a top quality Eventing stable, train with an Olympic rider, and learning how to run a successful business. Plenty of riding opportunities and daily instruction, and top class facilities. Check out our Web site: www.teamwindchase.com. We are in the heart of the Area II Eventing community. Bring your horse, ride and compete — or if you don’t have a horse take lessons on ours. We are looking for dedicated students who can commit to at least six months. Contact Phyllis at [email protected]

Woodge Fulton/Full Moon Farm (FL/PA): Open working student position for 3* rider, Savannah (Woodge) Fulton. Individual will training and riding out of Buck Davidson’s barn in Ocala, FL in the winter and Reiglesville, PA during the summer. Great opportunity for learning all aspects of an upper level barn. Requires a motivated and hardworking individual. Housing provided and a minimum 6 month commitment required. If an opportunity like this appeals to you, please text Savannah at 443-821-5193. Position available immediately.

Boyd Martin (PA): The Eventing side of the business has an immediate opening for a new working student.  Candidate must be exceptionally hard working with a great attitude and willingness to learn the ropes of an Olympic level operation.  This is a great opportunity to train with the best in the business of Eventing and Dressage, and there is the potential for this to turn into a salaried position. Qualified candidate may bring their own horse and housing can be arranged.
Please email Sara for more details!

Colleen Rutledge (MD): Colleen Rutledge Eventing is seeking a working student/grooms assistant to join the team in Mount Airy, Maryland starting April 15. This position will entail duties including but not limited to feeding, mucking, tack cleaning, grooming, tacking/untacking, bathing, basic vet care, sole charge, clipping/mane pulling, facility maintenance, and some lungeing and hacking and exercising depending on experience.

The ideal candidate would be 18 years or older, mature, hard-working, self-reliant, self-motivated, conscientious, capable of following direction, have a sense of humor, have previous experience caring for and working around horses (Pony Club experience preferred) and a working knowledge of the eventing industry. Access to own transportation is a bonus.

Student will have front seat to the inner workings of a top eventing program with horses competing from novice to four star levels as well as yearlings and green broke horses and will have access to learn from other top professionals in the sport. Student will work along side head girl to prep horses for daily work and competitions along with providing the highest standard of daily care for the horses, equipment and facility. Student will have access to lessons with Colleen on a regular basis. Student will remain at the farm during away competitions to care for and exercise remaining horses.

A three month commitment is required. Student will start with a two-week trial period. If interested, please send resume and cover letter to Colleen Rutledge ([email protected]) and Alex Ambelang ([email protected]).

Jane Sleeper (KY): Looking for part time barn help- mornings 7-12:00 and we’re interviewing for a new working student for the exciting spring and summer event seasons!! Bring your horse and ride many of ours – eager to school cross country this week!! Give me a call 603-718-4446.

Below are some additional recent listings from EN’s classifieds site Sport Horse Nation:

Susie Beale (SC): Looking for an aspiring event rider to join our team in Aiken. Ride, train, work, and enjoy all that Aiken has to offer. Opportunity to stay on after we move back to PA is a possibility. We will be in Aiken the beginning of January through the end of March. Learn and train with Advanced-level competitor Susie Beale while working alongside a positive, team-oriented staff. Candidates should be hard working and have a positive attitude, no competition experience required. Stipend and shared housing available. If this is you, please contact [email protected] or Chris Adair at 484-868-6581.

Jeremy Dingy (SC): We are looking for an energetic, motivated, enthusiastic individual who is eager to further their riding and horse management skills while learning what it takes to run a quality training and boarding facility. Job duties will include tacking horses, cleaning stalls, feeding, turn out and turn in, cleaning tack, assisting in preparing for competitions, show grooming, braiding, wrapping, assisting farrier, vet, etc. Applicants should have prior experience caring for horses and must list references. In return we provide a training program for you and your horse with event/dressage trainer, Jeremy Dingy, free pasture board or reduced full board rate for one horse, and stipend. Possibility of seasoning in Central New York April through December. We are located in Hatchaway Bridge – right in the heart of Aiken’s eventing community. Contact Jeremy Dingy 315-730-0817 [email protected]

Tiffani Loudon-Meetze (SC): Eventing working student opportunity with Tiffani Loudon-Meetze. Looking for a long term, highly motivated, hard working person wanting to improve their riding skills as well as gain knowledge in horse care and management. Lovely, low key facility with brand new apartment. We are located north of Columbia SC and 1 hr. from Aiken. We offer housing, board for 1 horse, weekly lessons & transport to shows. Opportunities to ride and have lessons on other horses too. Duties include feeding, turning in and out, stall cleaning, grooming, tack cleaning etc.. 5-6 days per week. If interested please send a brief resume with references to [email protected]. Tiffaniloudoneventing.com

Selena O’Hanlon (CAN): We are sad to be saying goodbye to one of our best students. We are looking for someone to join the team. We are all very passionate about horses and the sport and we need someone who feels the same way. A hard working self starter who can use initiative and common sense. We offer daily lessons in riding and stable management, we will look at candidates with or without their own horse. [email protected]

Samantha St. Jacques (PA): St Jacques Equestrian has a position opening for a working student. We are located in Allentown, PA in the Lehigh Valley on a beautiful full service training facility. We are looking for a working student that is motivated, positive and hard working with a keen desire to improve. Please contact Samantha with resume, references and for more information. [email protected] 561-601-3048

Benita Strini, Plain Dealing Farm (VA): Immediate opening for motivated, hard working individual at premier Eventing facility in Scottsville, VA. Position involves, but is not limited to, daily care of horses including mucking, feeding, turn-out, tacking/untacking, maintaining neat and tide stable as well as some riding. Position also includes traveling to away shows and FEI competitions as well as wintering in South Carolina. Board for one horse included as well as use of the fantastic facilities. Great opportunity for someone looking to gain knowledge and experience grooming and working with a great team of dedicated, horse loving, individuals. Salary DOA, benefits include housing, insurance and vacation time. Position is full time, grooming experience ideal, and riding experience a must. [email protected]

Jane Sleeper (SC): We are looking for another eventor to join us in Aiken, SC for January 15, 2016 through March 15, 2016. We are based at Full Gallop Farm and we work, train, compete, attend clinics, and dodge the snow & frozen ground. Hope to find another working student and/or part time employee to learn, work, and enjoy the opportunity. Please contact Jane 610-857-2514, [email protected] and let’s get going!

Kelli Temple (SC): Working Student Needed – immediate opening. Aiken , SC. Board for one horse – lessons from Olympian Kelli Temple – coaching at events. PM Kelly for more info!

Amber Levine and Carry On Jump to Advanced Victory at Copper Meadows

By on Mar 20, 2016 1:00 pm -
Amber Levine and Carry On. Photo courtesy of Bill Olsen. Amber Levine and Carry On. Photo courtesy of Bill Olsen.

Amber Levine and Carry On successfully jumped a faultless round over a tricky Jose Nava show jumping course today to clinch their first Advanced win at Copper Meadows. Just the second Advanced run for this pair, the win was the cherry on top of a weekend that proved anything is possible.

Amber finished on a final score of 28, followed by Bunnie Sexton and Rise Against, who were able to move up into second thanks to a double clear round. “Ecko” definitely looked keen and ready to go today, and he got away with a few rubs but overall jumped and rated nicely for Bunnie to leave the rails in their cups. They end their weekend on a 41.5 as they move closer to their goal of journeying back to Kentucky next month.

Bunnie Sexton and Rise Against. Photo courtesy of Bill Olsen.

Bunnie Sexton and Rise Against. Photo courtesy of Bill Olsen.

Nikki Ayers and Rubicon picked up third place in their second Advanced start. A pair of rails down kept Nikki from remaining in her overnight second position, but she still gave “Rubix” some extra big pats to the delight of her supporters looking on after clearing the final fence.

Nikki Ayers and Rubicon. Photo courtesy of Bill Olsen.

Nikki Ayers and Rubicon. Photo courtesy of Bill Olsen.

The course rode well for the most part, with two out of seven pairs having rails down. There appears to be a decent amount of atmosphere in this ring at Copper Meadows, what with spectators standing at every rail and plenty of shadows to distract even the most seasoned horse. The Advanced pairs handled things well, though, and rode the course with poise and just the right amount of control.

In the Intermediate division, Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato are your winners, finished on a final score of 33.9. Jordan and Capato moved into first following a double clear cross country run  — the only one of the division — and finished up by adding no penalties in today’s show jumping.

Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato. Photo courtesy of Bill Olsen.

Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato. Photo courtesy of Bill Olsen.

Robyn Fischer and Betawave, a 7-year-old Holsteiner mare owned by Robyn and Carol Singh, finished in second place with a double clear show jumping today for  a weekend score of 37.0. This mare is a rising star for Robyn; she won her Intermediate debut at Fresno last fall and most recently in 2016 picked up fourth place in her first CIC2* last month.

Mia Farley and Fernhill Fine Diamond, whom we have talent spotted in the past, are your third place finishers in the Open Intermediate on a final score of 40.5. Mia has been working hard as a part of the Eventing 18 group of young riders this year, and that work is certainly paying off with this result in the pair’s first Intermediate together.

Many thanks to Ride On Video for providing a great live stream of the show jumping today!

Copper Meadows H.T. [Website] [Live Scores]

Rolex Entry Update: The Kiwis Are Coming

By on Mar 20, 2016 11:00 am -
Tim Price and Wesko. Photo by Rare Air Eventing Photography. Tim Price and Wesko. Photo by Rare Air Eventing Photography.

New Zealand riders Tim Price, Mark Todd and Jock Paget have all been added to the Rolex entry list for next month. Tim Price is returning to Kentucky after finishing in second place with Wesko, a 13-year-old Dutch gelding owned by Christina Knudsen and The Wesko Syndicate.

Tim is also bringing Bango, a 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by the Numero Uno Syndicate who finished in the top 15 in his CCI4* debut at Luhmühlen last year. This horse also finished 12th in the CCI2* for 7-year-olds at Le Lion d’Angers — definitely a talented horse for Tim’s string.

Mark Todd, whom we haven’t seen stateside since 2014, has entered NZB Campino, a 14-year-old Hanoverian gelding owned by New Zealand Bloodstock and Mark Todd. This is one of Mark’s most seasoned campaigners, having been tapped as his 2012 Olympic mount and most recently picking up a 10th place finish at Pau in 2015. This will be NZB Campino’s first trip to Kentucky.

We last saw Jock Paget compete at Kentucky in 2012 when he finished in sixth place aboard Clifton Promise. This time he’s bringing Clifton Signature, an 11-year-old Thoroughbred/Hanoverian gelding owned by Frances Stead and Russell Hall. Jock and Clifton Signature finished 14th at Pau CCI4* last fall.

We’re always excited to welcome overseas entries to Rolex, and we anxiously await additional entries from across the pond as the March 29 closing date draws closer. There are now 42 combinations entered. Stay tuned for many more entry list updates!

[Rolex Kentucky Entry List]

Hope Springs Eternal for Kirsten Buffamoyer and Jim

By on Mar 20, 2016 9:00 am -
Kirsten Buffamoyer and Jim at Fair Hill. Photo by Jenni Autry. Kirsten Buffamoyer and Jim at Fair Hill. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Having a horse to gallop around big Advanced courses has been a long time coming for Kirsten Buffamoyer. No stranger to the concept of having plans go awry when it comes to horses, Kirsten is thrilled to finally have the opportunity of a lifetime with her 13-year-old OTTB gelding, Jim.

It was a chance meeting that brought Jim into Kirsten’s life — she was contacted by a gentleman who had acquired some Thoroughbreds, and she originally was going over to look at a gray son of Storm Cat.

“He wasn’t what I was looking for, and I was trying to figure out how to graciously decline when Jim came walking down the hill,” Kirsten recalled. “He was underweight and had rain rot but he had this huge eye. He was seven at the time and hadn’t been ridden in three years, but we put a saddle on him and he cantered off on this little loose rein canter. I bought him on the spot.”

Jim has an exuberant jumping style, one that Kirsten worked hard to fine tune as the upper levels approached. “He’s always jumped much higher than he needs to,” Kirsten said. “He’s a crazy good jumper, and as the jumps have gotten higher he’s really started to figure it out. We’ve worked with Peter Atkins a lot right before we moved up to Prelim so we weren’t over jumping Prelim fences by three feet!”

“When I ran around my first Prelim, it was just so easy for him,” she continued. “He was dead straight, dead honest. The only issues I’ve ever had are if I don’t sit up and steer. If I place the question in front of him and he sees it, there’s no doubt that he will go.”

After a year of Prelim competition, Kirsten elected to make the step up to Intermediate with her OTTB. She made her move at Pine Top in 2014 and was rewarded with a fourth place finish in their debut as a pair. Kirsten has limited upper level experience prior to Jim, but it was becoming apparent that she may have the real deal on her hands.

Kirsten spent the majority of 2014 and 2015 at the Intermediate and two-star level, putting all of the pieces together while keeping the “big A” in the back of her mind. As with all horses, though, the campaign was filled with plenty of ups and downs, to the point where Kirsten took a moment to consider her options.

Jim gives the big Pine Top hammock plenty of room. Photo courtesy of Hoofclix.com.

Jim gives the big Pine Top hammock plenty of room. Photo courtesy of Hoofclix.com.

“Last fall, I was at the point where I was considering selling him. I have some really nice young horses and I thought, ‘Maybe this is what I’m supposed to do, bring along the young horses and let someone else take Jim and enjoy him,'” she said.

Then, Kirsten took a lesson with Bruce Davidson Sr., where he quickly assuaged her thoughts. “Halfway through, he looked at me and asked what my plans were. He said, ‘This is a four-star horse, and you’re crazy if you sell him.’ So I guess when Bruce Davidson tells you that your horse is a four-star horse, you sit up and listen!”

So Kirsten made the decision to keep tugging away, keep chipping away at the pieces. She aimed Jim back at the CCI2* at Fair Hill. “I had two run-bys when I didn’t sit up and steer like I should have,” Kirsten recalled. “Through all of the hard things, though, he was just so spot on. He just jumped out of his skin. I thought, maybe this is my shot.”

Kirsten kept working through the winter, eyeing a move up to Advanced this spring. She made her Advanced debut with Jim at Rocking Horse in February and followed that with two clear cross county runs at Pine Top and the CIC3* at Red Hills, most recently.

Now, Kirsten is allowing herself to look farther ahead — she’s tentatively aiming for the CCI3* at Jersey Fresh this spring and then the CCI3* at Fair Hill in the fall. “I think anyone who plays this game at a serious level has the three- and four-star level in the back of their head,” Kirsten said. “My goal wasn’t necessarily a four-star, but just having the ability to go Advanced and gain experience.”

“(Four-star) is hard not to think about though!” she laughed. “It’s always kind of there in the back of your head. I guess I’ve had so many disappointments, you just kind of push it down. It’s been the ride of my life, and the dream is definitely still there.”

Amber Levine and Carry On In Charge of Copper Meadows Advanced

By on Mar 19, 2016 5:30 pm -
Amber Levine and Carry On. Photo by Miles Barrett. Amber Levine and Carry On. Photo by Miles Barrett.

Amber Levine and Carry On, a 9-year-old KWPN gelding, remained in control of the Advanced at Copper Meadows following cross country today, putting in a clear round just a few seconds over time to sit on a 28.0 going into tomorrow’s show jumping.

This is the second Advanced run for Amber, who stepped up to the level with this horse at Fresno last month, finishing fourth in their debut. This pair had a successful campaign at the Intermediate and two-star level, picking up fourth place finishes in the CCI2* at both Rebecca Farm and Galway Downs in 2015.

Nikki Ayers and her “horse of a different color,” Rubicon, are also running their second Advanced together — they finished third in their debut at Fresno — and will take second place into tomorrow on a score of 38.5.

Crazy legs and harmony_eventing getting it done !! Making the… https://t.co/jxoPIQ6TB1

Posted by Hawley Bennett Eventing on Saturday, March 19, 2016

In third after two phases are Bunnie Sexton and Rise Against, who are aiming for a second go at Rolex this spring. This pair rose from sixth into third thanks to the fastest cross country trip of the day, incurring just 1.6 time penalties. They’ll be on a score of 41.5 as they look ahead to show jumping.

For anyone who is not able to attend the Copper Meadows event this weekend, Ride On Video will be live streaming show jumping tomorrow (and are also doing so today). You can view the live stream link here to follow along with all the action.

Advanced show jumping kicks off at 8:30 a.m. PST / 11:30 a.m. EST, so stay tuned for the finale of one of the West Coast’s favorite spring events!

Copper Meadows H.T. [Website] [Live Scores]

A Primetime Ride

By on Mar 19, 2016 1:00 pm -
Leah Lang-Gluscic, AP Prime, and I. Leah Lang-Gluscic, AP Prime, and I.

My trip to Ocala was nothing if not full of firsts. It was truly the trip of a lifetime and I came home with plenty of homework and memories to last me a lifetime. I had the privilege of taking a spin on Ballynoe Castle RM over at Buck Davidson’s, and a conversation over a bottle of wine led to another opportunity to ride a top level horse: Leah Lang-Gluscic’s AP Prime.

I headed over to Leah’s Ocala base one afternoon after she expressed a need for a videographer to take some footage of a sales horse. Happy to oblige, I shot some video and Leah offered me a glass of wine to show her appreciation. As we sat on her porch taking in the views, the conversation turned to Buck and Reggie.

“So how did that even come about?” Leah asked. I happily relived the tale, smiling at the thought of that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Leah grinned at me and told me that I should come and hop aboard AP Prime next time I was over. I couldn’t quite believe my luck — if all the stars align, I might be able to say I rode not one, but two horses heading down centerline at Rolex this year!

The next week, I once again headed to Leah’s, feeling those familiar jitters at the prospect of sitting astride a horse way above my talent level. Once again, the thoughts entered my head of what could go wrong (everything) and the ways I could screw up (there were a lot).

I tried to push those thoughts from my head, though, as Leah began tacking AP up for our little jaunt. Let me just start by saying, I am a huge fan of smaller horses. Not tiny, per se, but 16 hands or so. Nothing large — I like to feel like I’m riding a sports car.

If you were to describe AP Prime in a word, “small” would not be it. The OTTB gelding is about 16.2 on a short day and every bit as muscular as the human equivalent of his athletic level. Definitely not the small, in your pocket type that I am used to.

AP eyed me cautiously, wondering what hell I was about to put him through. I laughed and reassured him that this would probably be the easiest ride he would ever have to endure.

I got on and set off around the arena with Leah watching. As I set off to do some flatwork, I focused on keeping my position as strong as possible and letting AP show me exactly how he likes to be ridden. On the flat, he’s once again a great example of a well trained horse. A whisper of a leg and he is bent around it, a soft wiggle on the inside rein and he’s on the bit. Riding horses such as this is a great learning experience and example of where you eventually want your horse to be.

I loped around the arena a bit before Leah told me to go and jump the small course she had set up. I gulped to myself, knowing that this would definitely be a different ride than what I am accustomed to.

And it undoubtedly was. Poor AP didn’t know what was coming — I think I missed every distance the first time through because I was too nervous and momentarily forgot that a horse like this could jump a two-foot course in his sleep and that I was just hindering him by trying to manage things too much.

After I choked out an apology and convinced myself I had broken AP because he cross-cantered after a fence, Leah told me to try again but to trust him and let him find his own distances when I could.

So I did, and the result was worlds better than the first. Granted, the horse still jumped me out of the tack (at two-foot — pretty impressive), but I felt much more confident by the time we had gone through again and couldn’t keep the grin off my face.

Leah had many proud mom moments while I was riding — I feel like it’s a sign of a truly great horse when he can successfully and quietly pack around an amateur. Granted, not all great horses are suitable for just anyone to ride, but it’s always a plus when you know you can safely let someone else ride your upper level horse.

After our ride, Leah told me to take AP for a hack around the farm. As he strode off confidently and looking for his next job, I took everything in. It was one of my last days in Ocala, and the experience had truly come full circle.

At the end of the day, it’s not about what “cool” things you get to do. It’s about what you learn and take home with you. From this trip, I took home inspiration — from riding both Reggie and AP I realized that having a horse that well-trained is not so impossible. I realized that even “people like me” can dream big, that we all started somewhere. I learned that eventers truly want to see their peers succeed. And those are the most important parts of this trip that I will keep with me as I continue to work towards my own goals.

I’d like to extend my thanks to Leah for entrusting me with her special horse and to each and every person who I came in contact with while in Florida. It truly is a trip of a lifetime, and the lessons learned will be valuable for a long time to come.

Rolex Entry Update: Phillip Dutton Adds 3, 37 Now Entered

By on Mar 19, 2016 11:00 am -
Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn. Photo by Jenni Autry. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The Rolex entry list for 2016 continues to grow daily, and we now see the additions of several riders, including Phillip Dutton with three rides.

Phillip will be bring Fernhill Cubalawn, Fernhill Fugitive and Mighty Nice to Kentucky this year — all horses who have a shot at being seriously competitive and who are also on the Rio radar as the Olympics rapidly approach.

Fernhill Cubalawn boosted Phillip to a USEF National Champion title in 2015 with a fifth place finish at Rolex, followed closely by stablemate Fernhill Fugitive in ninth place. This will be Mighty Nice’s fourth crack at the Kentucky four-star — he finished in tenth place in his first CCI4* start in 2012 and most recently finished second in the CCI3* at Fair Hill International last fall.

Also added to the list on this latest update is Lillian Heard, who is also bringing three horses this year. In addition to her veteran partner, Share Option, Lillian will be piloting LCC Barnaby and FYI in their first CCI4* starts. This will be Lillian’s second Rolex trip, and she has enjoyed some consistent results of late with all three of her horses so she is sitting in a great position to have a competitive go in Kentucky.

Lynn Symansky returns to the entry list with Donner, the “flying deer” OTTB gelding who will be contesting his sixth four-star. This pair took a trip to Normandy for the World Equestrian Games in 2014 and also took home a top-15 finish at Burghley last year.

Canadian Olympian Selena O’Hanlon is also a recent entry with her partner, Foxwood High. 2014 was the first CCI4* for “Woody”, and the smile on Selena’s face upon finishing a clear cross country said it all. This is a partnership Selena is quite proud of, and for good reason. Woody went on to represent Canada at the World Equestrian Games and his dressage is an ever improving phase — this is a pair to watch for Canada as the season progresses.

Stay tuned for many more updates on the latest Rolex entries!

[Rolex Entry List]

William Fox-Pitt Cleared for Competition

By on Mar 19, 2016 9:00 am -
William Fox-Pitt and Chilli Morning. Photo by Jenni Autry. William Fox-Pitt and Chilli Morning. Photo by Jenni Autry.

William Fox-Pitt posted an update on his website yesterday confirming that he has been cleared to compete by his doctor. William suffered a head injury after a fall at Le Lion d’Angers last fall, and he has been on the road to recovery with the full intent of returning to competition this year.

“I have been checked by the specialist and have been cleared to compete,” William said in the announcement. “[British coach Yogi Breisner] came down this week and we jumped four horses together and it very much feels like all systems go. A big thank you to everyone who has supported me through my recovery. I am looking forward to working with Chilli Morning and the rest of the horses and getting going with the season.”

We have not yet heard whether or not William plans to aim for a spring CCI4* (or two), but we have no doubt that he has a plan in mind for how he wants to leg his horses back up with the 2016 season and, importantly, the Summer Olympics looming.

Meanwhile, Harry Meade and Hector Payne have stepped up to take some of William’s younger horses out competing — and we hear he also has a new hand to help in the U.S.’ own Andrew McConnon, who just arrived in Dorset, England this week.

We’ll continue to bring you more updates from the Fox Pitt camp and are thrilled to hear that William is doing well in his recovery.

Friday Video from World Equestrian Brands: Countdown to Badminton

By on Mar 18, 2016 5:00 pm -

Badminton course designer Giuseppe Della Chiesa and technical delegate Alec Lochore took a few minutes to chat about their vision for the 2016 course as we eagerly anticipate the big spring CCI events.

A lot of vision and hard work goes into the design of any cross country course, let alone one of the most prolific events in the world. “It’s good to have somebody to share these ideas and see if they’re completely mad ideas or if they’re possible,” Giuseppe says of his appreciation for Alec in the interview.

Go behind the scenes as the brains behind one of the biggest cross country courses in the world takes on its shape for the new year. Stay tuned for much more from Badminton, including the upcoming release of the accepted entries list!

Thursday Video from Nupafeed USA: Learn About the Irish Sport Horse

By on Mar 17, 2016 6:00 pm -

The Irish Sport Horse is a staple in many equine disciplines and has a prominent place within the eventing world. In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, we’re dedicating today’s video to this sturdy and versatile breed with this great video from HorseMarket Ireland.

Take a look at various examples of traditionally bred Irish horses and the characteristics they display in this footage from the Dublin Horse Show in 2013 — a true showcase of the Irish horse.

Whether you have a Irish Sport Horse, a Connemara, or a mix of something in between, many people will tell you that these are among the best sport horses there are to be had.

Go Irish Horses, and Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: An Intro to Free Jumping

By on Mar 16, 2016 5:00 pm -
Click image to play video.

Click image to play video.

The USEA’s Young Event Horse Program is a key part to producing future superstars in the sport of eventing. With Young Event Horse symposiums and competitions all over the country, there is ample opportunity to learn about what to look for and how to best prepare your young horse for its career.

This informative video features instruction on the topic of free jumping. Free jumping is a popular way to showcase scope and footwork that comes naturally to young horses.

For those of you on the West coast who are interested in learning more, Dragonfire Farm will be hosting a free jumping clinic in Wilton, California May 21-22. This will be a useful educational opportunity for those interested in the Future Event Horse classes, which will now be asked to free jump in addition to showing in hand.

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Not sure which horse supplement best meets your horse’s needs? We are here to help. Contact us at 859-873-2974 or visit our website at KPPusa.com.

Interested in e-facts about equine nutrition and horse health information? Click here to sign up for KPP’s nutritionalminute: http://eepurl.com/cMPw.

Rolex Entries Go Live: 28 Pairs Entered So Far

By on Mar 15, 2016 6:00 pm -
Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville at Rolex in 2014. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Rolex Kentucky entries have just gone live, and we have 28 pairs entered at this first update! Entries only recently opened, and riders have until March 29 to submit their paperwork. The full list of accepted entries will be published no later than April 6, 2016

We’ll be bringing you updates on the entry list as new pairs are listed, so without further ado here is our first look at the 2016 Rolex entry list!

We’re thrilled to see Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot return to Rolex after “William” sustained a tendon injury at Burghley in 2014. Hannah and the 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Ms. Jacqueline Mars have had a great start to their 2016 season, most recently finishing third in the CIC3* at Red Hills over the weekend. Welcome back, William!

Many seasoned campaigners will be back out for another go at the only CCI4* in North America. Notably, Sinead Halpin with Manoir de Carneville, Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch, and Lauren Kieffer with Veronica have become staples of the Kentucky entry list and will be making their return in 2016.

We’re also seeing the first of the overseas entries listed, as Oliver Townend will be making a return to Kentucky aboard Black Tie. Oliver last visited Rolex in 2012 and this time will bring his 2014 World Equestrian Games mount, a 15-year-old Thoroughbred gelding owned by Oliver and Karyn Shuter.

Also appearing on the entry list for Great Britain is Panda Christie with Little Leo, a 14-year-old gelding who will be contesting his second CCI4* with Panda after completing Pau in 2015. This will be Panda’s first visit to Rolex, and we’re excited to welcome her to the U.S.!

Other international riders include Waylon Roberts and Kelecyn Cognac (CAN); Daniela Moguel and Cecelia (MEX), who represented Mexico at the 2015 Pan American Games and, in their first CCI4*; Tim Bourke (IRL) and Luckaun Quality; Philippa Humphreys (GBR) and Sir Donovan; Joe Meyer (NZL) and Clip Clop; and Cody Sturgess (CAN) and Imperial Melody.

To view the complete entry list, click here and stay tuned for many more updates as more entries begin to file in. It’s that time of year, EN! Go Rolex!

[Rolex Entry List]

Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: The #RideForOlivia Mosaic

By on Mar 15, 2016 5:00 pm -

The mosaic created from photos of hundreds of thousands of riders all over the world was presented to the Inglis family this weekend at Olivia’s memorial service. The #RideForOlivia hashtag took on a life of its own, spurring riders from all disciplines and walks of life to share their photos in her honor.

This video gives us a closer look at the #RideForOlivia mosaic, as well as the sheer effort and thoughtfulness that went into its creation. We hope this brought some comfort to the Inglis family. Olivia’s memory continues to live on in equestrians the world over — we will never forget her.

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Tuesday News & Notes from Cavalor

By on Mar 15, 2016 12:01 am -
What happens in the Red Hills media tent ... stays in the Red Hills media tent? Photo via EN on Instagram. What happens in the Red Hills media tent ... stays in the Red Hills media tent? Photo via EN on Instagram.

One thing I love about eventers is our willingness to have fun. Just take a look at this photo — you certainly can’t say this happens in media tents in just any discipline! Eventers definitely know how to kick back and have a good time — perhaps it’s just the loose screw we all have that makes us brave enough to jump ginormous jumps and come away with a smile on our face.

Eventers are also a giant, caring, community, as exemplified by the recent #RideForOlivia phenomenon. We may be a crazy, fun group, but at the end of the day there is still a giant net of like-minded people ready to catch you when you fall.

Events Opening This Week:

Fresno County Horse Park H.T. (CA, A-6),  University of New Hampshire Spring H.T. (NH, A-1),  Jersey Fresh International Three-day Event (NJ, A-2),  Loudoun Hunt Pony Club Spring H.T. (VA, A-2),  Riga Meadow Combined Test (CT, A-1)

Events Closing Today:

Rocking Horse Spring H.T. (FL, A-3),  Galway Downs International Horse Trials (CA, A-6),  Morven Park Spring Horse Trial (VA, A-2),  Texas Rose Horse Park H.T. (TX, A-5), Full Gallop Farm April H.T. (SC, A-3)

News & Notes:

Have you checked out our newest sister site, Jumper Nation, yet? If not, you’re definitely missing out. Whether or not you dabble in the jumper ring, it’s always fascinating to see how crazy talented these horses and riders are, and JN is just the place to catch up on the action. [Jumper Nation]

This week’s Fab Freebie is a fancy one! We’ve teamed up with Highland Browbands to give away a Custom Triple Color Browband to a lucky winner. Show off those colors with a design to call your own. [Fab Freebie: Highland Browbands]

Area IV’s annual online auction is in full swing, and there is plenty of loot to get your hands on this year. The annual auction raises money to support Area IV throughout the year, so every penny helps! Even if you are not an Area IV rider, you may still find something of interest to you, including lessons with upper level riders and even a getaway vacation! [USEA Area IV Online Auction]

Does your horse have an inspiring story about coming back from a serious injury or illness? OCD Pellets wants to hear all about it! Send in your rehab to [email protected] for a chance to win an OCD prize pack (2-month supply of OCD Pellets, 1-month supply of COS Canine, and an OCD Pellets hat and T-shirt). Entries close Monday, May 2, 2016, and the story that receives the most views on EN will win. [Contest Details]

Kentucky Equine Research and EN are teaming up to host the Great KER Fitness Challenge this spring! Download the free KER ClockIt Sport app for your phone and record your rides for a chance to win a $100 gift card to shop.kerx.com, an EcoGold Secure XC Saddle Pad, a lesson with your choice of Bruce Davidson, Liz Halliday-Sharp, or Dom or Jimmie Schramm; and feature story about you and your horse on EN. [Contest Details]

Tuesday Video:

This is definitely a cool way to introduce cross country jumps!

Piper and I are having an amazing time in FL. Learning so much,But today we took some time just to have a little fun.

Posted by Amy Bowers on Monday, March 14, 2016

Buck and Andrea Davidson Welcome Aubrey Brook Davidson

By on Mar 14, 2016 11:28 pm -
Bruce and Buck Davidson with baby Aubrey. Photo courtesy of Buck Davidson. Bruce and Buck Davidson with baby Aubrey. Photo courtesy of Buck Davidson.

Please join us in congratulating Buck and Andrea Davidson on the birth of their baby girl, Aubrey Brook Davidson! Aubrey made her grand appearance today, weighing 6 pounds, 9 ounces.

If you caught a glimpse of Andrea coaching at Rocking Horse last weekend, you’d never know she was a day or two past her due date — the girl is an Energizer Bunny!

Buck and Andrea Davidson with baby Aubrey. Photo courtesy of Buck Davidson.

Buck and Andrea Davidson with baby Aubrey. Photo courtesy of Buck Davidson.

Both mother and father are doing well and will be busy tending to their new addition. We’re thrilled for the family and cannot wait to watch Aubrey grow up (hopefully to be a famous eventer!).

Congratulations to all!

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: #BeTheInspiration

By on Mar 14, 2016 5:00 pm -

Be The Inspiration: Clarke“Spending time with your horse is essential. You have to form a partnership with them, so you know how each other is feeling during competition.”Clarke Johnstone Eventing#BeTheInspiration #EnduranceRead more: http://www.olympic.org.nz/news/be-the-inspiration-clarke-johnstone/

Posted by NZ Olympic Team on Saturday, March 12, 2016

This beautifully produced video was just published by the New Zealand Olympic Team Facebook page featuring Clarke Johnstone and his partner, Balmoral Sensation. Balmoral Sensation finished third in the CCI4* at Adelaide last fall, and Clarke has built a name for himself as a prominent New Zealand rider.

Check out this video on the bond Clarke has with his horses and the importance of inspiration — go ahead, get inspired!

Celebrating the Thoroughbred: T.I.P Eventing Winners from 2015

By on Mar 14, 2016 3:00 pm -
McKenzie Scroggins and Wild ChaCha Dancer. Photo provided by McKenzie Scroggins. McKenzie Scroggins and Wild ChaCha Dancer. Photo provided by McKenzie Scroggins.

The Jockey Club’s Thoroughbred Incentive Program is an excellent nod to the versatility of the off-track Thoroughbred, one of the most common breeds you can find in eventing. The Jockey Club has released the 2015 Performance Awards winners for the horses who participated in the Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.) last year, and the list includes many eventers.

“The growth T.I.P. has shown in the last four years confirms the dedication our owners and riders have about retired Thoroughbreds,” Kristin Leshney, senior counsel for The Jockey Club and the administrator of T.I.P, said in a press release. “We are pleased to announce the winners of this year’s Performance Awards and look forward to another successful T.I.P. show season in 2016.”

For the Eventing and Combined Training division, Wild ChaCha Dancer (Wild Gold – Mel’s Dancer, by Raja’s Best Boy) is the overall winner. Wild ChaCha Dancer, who now competes as “Cha Cha”, is owned by Area IV’s McKenzie Scroggins at the age of 10. McKenzie and ChaCha were the Junior Beginner Novice winners at AECs last year and are now successfully campaigning at the Novice level.

Eventers were also honored by division, beginning with Pre-Beginner Novice and going up through Intermediate and FEI levels.

Confiado

Beth Zollicoffer and Confiado. Photo provided by Beth Zollicoffer.

The Pre-Beginner Novice winner is Confiado, owned and ridden by Beth Zollicoffer. Wild ChaCha Dancer is the Beginner Novice winner thanks to his top placings at the level with McKenzie Scroggins.

First in the Novice division is Dynamic Lisa (Dynaformer – Ashley Lindsey, by Turkoman), owned and ridden by Tracey Woods. The Training winners are Biker Chef (Polish Navy – A Golden Rose, by Strike the Gold), owned and ridden by Jocelyn Hawe. Biker Chef now shows as “Carry On” and has multiple top placings at Training level and has also competed at Prelim.

Alex Reed and King Katz (On Broadway). Photo provided by Alex Reed.

Alex Reed and King Katz (On Broadway). Photo provided by Alex Reed.

King Katz (Mass Market – Catz (IRE), by Catrail), owned and ridden by Alex Reed, is the Preliminary winner and are currently competing at the Prelim and CIC1* level.

Hillary Irwin and Bit Of Irish. Photo courtesy of Brant Gamma.

Hillary Irwin and Bit Of Irish. Photo courtesy of Brant Gamma.

Drop of the Irish, owned by Hillary Irwin, is the Intermediate top horse for the 2015 season. Now showing as “Bit of Irish”, Hillary and this 2007 mare have busily been climbing the levels and chipping away at their chance at the top levels.

Hillary Irwin and Kilbeggan. Photo courtesy of Brant Gamma.

Hillary Irwin and Kilbeggan. Photo courtesy of Brant Gamma.

Hillary also has the top CIC/CCI horse in Kilbeggan ( Concerto – Miss Tullamore Dew, by Mecke), who capped off 2015 with a win in the CCI1* at Hagyard Midsouth.

You can view the full press release and list of winners here. Congratulations to all Thoroughbreds on successful 2015 seasons! If you haven’t registered your OTTB for a Thoroughbred Incentive Program number, you can do so by clicking here.

Fab Freebie: Win a Custom Browband from Highland Browbands

By on Mar 14, 2016 9:00 am -
Photo courtesy of Highland Browbands. Photo courtesy of Highland Browbands.

Colorful browbands have become all the rage in the horse world, and for good reason. The right browband can add the perfect splash of color and bling to your outfit, whether it be for the dressage ring or the jumping ring.

This week, we are teaming up with Highland Browbands to give away a beautiful Custom Triple Color Browband to one lucky winner. That’s right, you’ll get to customize your new browband in whatever color combination you’d like! There are also several shapes to choose from, and the winner will have their choice.

You and your horse will be extra fancy with the help of Highland Browbands this year! If you’ve taken a peek at their website and are itching to get to shopping, EN readers can use the code ENFREESHIP during the month of March to receive free shipping on their orders!

To enter this week’s giveaway, use the Rafflecopter widget below and check this Friday’s News & Notes to find out if you’re the lucky winner!

Disclaimer: Information given in the Rafflecopter widget, including email addresses, may be shared with the corresponding sponsor at their request. You will also be signed up for our weekly EN eNews email newsletter, if you aren’t already. Don’t worry — you’ll just wonder what you’ve been missing out on — and you can unsubscribe if you don’t want it.

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