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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

Love Is In the Air: A Valentine’s Day Social Media Wrap

By on Feb 14, 2016 1:00 pm -

Love or hate Valentine’s Day, it’s nevertheless an opportunity to express love for our two- and four-legged partners. Luckily for most equestrians, our horses are our main love, so it’s no surprise that social media is full of gushings surrounding our horses (sorry boys and girls! We love you, too).

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Posted by Carl Hester on Sunday, February 14, 2016

Love your pony today!

Posted by Dragonfire Farm on Sunday, February 14, 2016

Quite possibly the most awesome Valentines Day card ever #happypinksparklythingsday

A photo posted by Sara Gartland (@sagartland) on

Tate is wishing all of his lady loves (past and future) a very Happy Valentine’s Day! 🙂

Posted by Tatendrang on Sunday, February 14, 2016

Screenshot_17

Screenshot_18

Happy Valentine’s Day, EN!

Saturday Videos: Athens Olympic Throwback

By on Feb 13, 2016 5:00 pm -

With 2016 being an Olympic year, we’ve all got the podium on our minds. While we’re in the mood, our friend David Robinson posted some great throwback footage of the 2004 Athens cross country for our enjoyment.

That year, it was Leslie Law with Shear L’Eau who took home the individual gold medal, followed by Kim Severson on Winsome Adante and Pippa Funnel on Primmore’s Pride. France earned the team gold medal, followed by Great Britain and the U.S., respectively.

Check out this great video of Leslie’s round:

While we sadly don’t see a video of Kim and Dan’s round, here are some more videos to look back on, including U.S. team members Darren Chiacchia and John Williams.

David also uploaded Part 6 of his series, which features none other than Kim Severson!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNDI2oGbcmQ

Enjoy!

Taylor McFall and Kilbarry Prince Tackled Their First Training and It’s Adorbs

By on Feb 13, 2016 11:00 am -
Taylor McFall and Kilbarry Prince. Photo by Jen McFall. Taylor McFall and Kilbarry Prince. Photo by Jen McFall.

Taylor McFall had her Pony Club kick ready for her Training debut aboard Kilbarry Prince, the pony she purchased after a summer of hard work, last weekend at the Galway Downs Winter Event. The pair completed their first event at the level with some show jump penalties but an otherwise successful move up.

After spending 2015 competing at Novice, including a 12th place finish in the Novice Three Day at Rebecca Farm, 12-year-old Taylor began preparing for her first Training level event with help from coach Hawley Bennett-Awad.

“It was one of the scariest things I’ve ever done,” Taylor said. “But I’m glad I did it. The experience made me believe more in my pony than ever and my ability to make things happen even at a higher level.”

And make things happen she did, even when Prince was a bit unmotivated in the show jumping phase:

242S Taylor McFall On Kilbarry Prince YR Training Show Jumping Galway Downs Feb 2016

“I’m so proud of her for that ride!” Taylor’s mother, Jen McFall, said of her show jumping ride. “It was tough and she got the job done.”

Taylor and Prince will run another Novice at Fresno next to make sure both of their confidence is still in good shape and will look to another Training event after that.

We’ll continue to follow Taylor and Prince’s 2016 season and wish them all the best with their move up!

Clayton Fredericks Takes Ocala Advanced CT, Kylie Lyman Cleans Up Intermediate

By on Feb 13, 2016 9:00 am -
Clayton Fredericks and FE Bowman. Photo by Kasey Mueller/Rare Air Photography. Clayton Fredericks and FE Bowman. Photo by Kasey Mueller/Rare Air Photography.

Clayton Fredericks and FE Bowman are an exciting pair to watch — well, really, any of the horses in Clayton’s barn are well deserving of praise! — and they handily took home the honors in the Advanced CT running at Ocala Horse Properties Winter II yesterday.

A 2008 Württemburg gelding by Balloon (Balou de Rouet – Eyleen), FE Bowman originally sat in fifth place in a competitive field with a score of 27.7, but he was one of just four to jump double clear to clinch the win.

FE Bowman had a wildly successful 2015 season, culminating in a CCI2* win at Richland Park in August. This weekend was the gelding’s first foray into the Advanced world, and the results bode well for an equally successful 2016. He’s already collected a second place and a win at Intermediate in 2016, so keep an eye out for this one! For interested parties, there are still some syndicate shares available for this horse — visit Fredericks Equestrian for more information.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley were good for second in the Advanced CT despite collecting nine penalties in the show jumping. Their division best dressage score of 22.7 gave them a bit of breathing room — I suppose you could say Liz has got them #DressageSkillz.

Jon Holling and his longtime partner, Downtown Harrison, moved from 10th into third overall with just one time penalty incurred over fences. Jon and Downtown Harrison have perhaps one of the best partnerships to watch, and it’s great to see them doing so well in 2016.

Kylie Lyman has had a rocking weekend so far, picking up the win in both Open Intermediate divisions aboard Da Vinci Code and Lup The Loop, both owned by Joan Nichols.

Kylie Dermody and Lup the Loop. Photo courtesy of Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Kylie Dermody and Lup the Loop. Photo courtesy of Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Kylie capped off a successful 2015 season with three top-20 finishes in the Fair Hill CCI2* — no small feat and a testament to the talent she is sitting on at the moment. This weekend was no different as Kylie led wire to wire aboard Lup The Loop and moved up from fourth to take first with Da Vinci Code. She also finished in third place in the Intermediate Horse division with Sacramento, owned by Cristin O’Hara.

In the Open Intermediate A, Sinead Halpin and High Altitude finished in second after moving up from ninth place on cross country. This was the first Intermediate start for this horse, a 2008 Thoroughbred mare owned by Gail Opatut.

Jon Holling and Avoca Druid, an Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Team Rebecca LLC, moved up into third place with a shade of time accumulated on cross country. This horse had a great year at the Preliminary level in 2015 and has now completed two Intermediate events with top-3 placings.

Buck Davidson catch rode Justine Dutton’s Jak My Style, owned by Kathleen Cuca, in the Open Intermediate B after Justine suffered a dislocated shoulder this week. Buck was a successful pilot for the 10-year-old Thoroughbred gelding, finishing second in the division on his dressage score of 27.7.

Ellen Eoughty-Hume and Sir Oberon at the Eventing Prix Invitational. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Ellen Eoughty-Hume and Sir Oberon at the Eventing Prix Invitational. Photo by Jenni Autry.

In third in the B division are fan favorites Ellen Doughty and Sir Oberon, who are once again aiming at Rolex this spring and were out to stretch their legs this weekend after arriving in Florida.

In the Intermediate Horse division, Caroline Martin and Effervescent were the winners, leading from start to finish on their dressage score of 29.0. This pair completed the CCI2* at Fair Hill last fall and also picked up a top 20 finish in their first Intermediate start of the new season.

Buck Davidson and Approved Power got up for second place, also finishing on their dressage score of 29.8. Approved Power is owned by Amy Tunney and most recently finished fifth in his Open Intermediate division at Rocking Horse Winter I.

Kaitlyn Hewson and Fernhill Cascum Marco in OP-B

Kaitlyn Hewson and Fernhill Cascum Marco. Photo by Rare Air Photography.

Katlyn Hewson and Fernhill Cascum Marco were the big winners of the Intermediate Rider division, their first run of the season. Katlyn and Fernhill Cascum Marco finished their 2015 season with a completion in the CIC2* at Richland Park.

Jeanie Clarke and Head for More finished in second place in the Rider division with just a few seconds of time on cross country. This pair had a great season at Preliminary last year and picked up their best placing so far in 2016 in three starts.

In third for the Rider division are Lexi Scovil and Charleston VI, who also completed a tough CCI2* at Fair Hill to finish off their season last year. Lexi and Charleston VI were tied for sixth following dressage and successfully jumped up a few places thanks to clear jumping rounds.

We are all still reeling from the devastating news of the loss of Atlanta yesterday on course for the Intermediate division. Our thoughts and condolences continue to be with owner and rider Juan Larrazabal and all of Atlanta’s connections.

Ocala Winter III continues throughout the weekend with the remainder of the Preliminary through Beginner Novice divisions.

Ocala Winter II H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Learning to Stay in the Backseat

By on Feb 11, 2016 1:30 pm -
Justine Dutton and Jollybo (GBR). Photo by Jenni Autry. Justine Dutton and Jollybo (GBR). Photo by Jenni Autry.

It’s pretty incredible to come to Ocala and essentially have your pick of who you’d like to train with. It’s a golden opportunity and one that I am doing my best to take full advantage of, as my finances will allow.

I was able to take a cross country lesson with Justine Dutton — the “other” Dutton — this week along with my coach and our barn owner who had come down for the week. In all, we took a total of five horses for a great day of cross country schooling at Rocking Horse.

Right away, Justine put us all at ease (we were all riding fairly inexperienced horses, with the exception of one), warming us up over small jumps so that she could gauge our horses and how game they looked to be.

Justine spends a lot of time training with Buck Davidson, and his style is also evident in her own teaching style: positive yet challenging, firm yet encouraging.

I was riding my new horse who had only been cross country schooling once before, and this was his first time with me. So I was a bit nervous with that in mind and the additional rust of it being the first school of the season. I have a terrible habit of getting a bit forward and ahead when I’m feeling nervous, a habit that Justine was quick to notice and help correct by reminding me to just sit in the backseat more.

The “backseat” is a term often used by eventers, and it’s definitely a useful one. That said, especially at the lower levels, I feel there is a difference between sitting with a soft, driving seat and giving hands and a hard, forceful seat that is using more coercion than coaxing. Yes, there is a need for many different positions on any given horse, but the backseat position that Justine encouraged was a soft one with a driving and supporting leg.

This position really helped my horse gain confidence as we went. After the first few fences, he was boldly moving up when I asked and cantering gamely away afterward without pulling on me. Justine built our group up slowly, throwing in some Novice questions towards the end when we were all feeling much more confident than when we’d started.

My coach (incidentally, also another Dutton) first rode her nervous OTTB who had only schooled once before and found it to be a bit overwhelming. Justine patiently gave my coach some other tools to try, often citing position as a means of communicating calmness and confidence to your horse — again with the soft but firm backseat position.

While all three of us riders have varying levels of experience with our respective horses, Justine was adaptable and able to structure the lesson so that we were all equally challenged without being overfaced. As someone who needs to build up to being confident, I appreciate a challenge without feeling shaky on the approach from nerves that this will be too big of a question.

Another point Justine brought up is, in her words, “you’re in charge of the GPS” — meaning you are the one who is directing your horse on where you’re going. If you look down, if you give mixed signals with your hand versus your leg or if you don’t insist on straightness, you are confusing your horse — especially a greener one such as the majority of what we brought to school — and therefore sacrificing quality of canter and the subsequent jump.

It was a great and successful day, a perfect way to kick off our season and knock the rust off our boots. Justine was an excellent teacher who utilized her experience and was relatable while giving her instructions. If you have the opportunity to take a lesson or clinic from her, I definitely encourage it — there is a lot to be learned!

Tuesday News & Notes from Cavalor

By on Feb 9, 2016 12:01 am -
Eric Bull on course at Fair Hill. Photo via ETB Equine Construction on Facebook. Eric Bull on course at Fair Hill. Photo via ETB Equine Construction on Facebook.

Great news, EN! Eric Bull and ETB Construction have signed a contract to build the new, state-of-the-art cross country course in preparation for the 2016 Nutrena American Eventing Championships.

Eric has become a household name within the sport, constructing courses such as Fair Hill, the Pan American Games, and the Wellington Eventing Showcase, to name just a few. We can’t wait to see what’s in store for this new course at Tryon International Equestrian Center in North Carolina.

“It’s manicured and showy, which will look great with the Florida-themed part of the course that will cross-promote the Asheville Regional Airport Wellington Eventing Showcase,” Eric said in a USEA interview. “These jumps look like Florida mansions, with painted finishes and have lots of little doors and windows and other details that will look appropriate in this setting.”

[ETB Construction Signs Contract for AECs Course]

Events Opening This Week:

Carolina International CIC and Horse Trial (NC, A-2),  MeadowCreek Park – The Spring Social Event (TX, A-5),  Stable View Winter Horse Trials II (SC, A-3), Poplar Place Farm March H.T. (GA, A-3)

Events Closing Today:

Pine Top Advanced, CIC3,CIC2*, CIC1* & H.T. (GA, A-3), Three Lakes February Horse Trials at Caudle Ranch (FL, A-3)

News & Notes:

Ocala Horse Properties Winter II Horse Trials is still in need of a few volunteers for this weekend’s event! Advanced dressage will begin Thursday, so there is plenty of room for volunteers, who will receive food and schooling coupons in exchange for their time. You can contact Beth Davidson if you have some time to help out!

Do you ever find the terminology and processes for neurological testing utterly confusing? We agree. Dr. Amy Johnson of the University of Pennsylvania has taken some time to break down the definitions and testing process for many common neurological disorders such as EPM and Lyme. [Testing for EPM, Lyme and Others]

Whether or not you’re a Broncos fan (I’m definitely not), you have to admit they have a pretty great mascot. Meet Thunder, a gray Arabian gelding who has the wherewithall to canter around placidly with thousands of fans screaming and carrying on. Check out more in the latest edition of the Chronicle’s Behind the Stall door series. [Behind the Stall Door: Thunder]

Tuesday Video:

Just because I’m bitter about Budweiser not having a tear-jerking Super Bowl ad this year…

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: The First 2016 Mustang Cam

By on Feb 8, 2016 5:00 pm -

Elisa Wallace and her talented mustang, Hwin, competed in the Training Horse division at Rocking Horse Winter I earlier this month and rocked around the cross country course for their first outing of the year.

Hwin went double clear across country and finished 14th in her division — and luckily, Elisa donned her helmet cam for the ride. Have a ride along for the first “mustang cam” of 2016!

Relive the Magic of the Wellington Eventing Showcase

By on Feb 8, 2016 3:00 pm -
Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery. Photo by Rare Air Photography. Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery. Photo by Rare Air Photography.

For anyone who missed the live stream of the $75,000 Wellington Eventing Showcase — or if you just want to be able to relive the magic — archived videos are now available thanks to our friends at the Chronicle of the Horse.

From the elegance of the dressage to the nail biters of the show jumping and cross country phases, there is a lot to watch and learn from. Check out these links to view playback of the event:

Dressage
Show Jumping
Cross Country

Enjoy, and don’t tell your boss we made you do it. Go Eventing!

Enjoy Ocala: The Hidden Gem That Is Amelia Island

By on Feb 8, 2016 1:00 pm -

Welcome to our new Enjoy Ocala series! Sally Spickard is spending the colder weeks in Ocala for the first time, so it's only fitting that she attempt all of the cool horse-y things there are to do. When in Ocala, right? If you have anything to add that you'd like Sally to try and write about, email [email protected] or comment here.

Photo by Kelly Dutton. Photo by Kelly Dutton.

Ah, Ocala. It’s a bit chilly this morning — high 30s — but I’m not really complaining. There is a plethora of things to do when you decide to take a “day off” here, and my coach and I have been excited to try the list of Ocala must-dos that seem to be on everyone’s bucket list.

Riding horses on the beach has always been a dream of every equestrian, yet not all of us have had the chance to enjoy this before. We searched online for a good beach that was horse friendly, and found a few different options. St. Augustine beach was one that seemed like a good choice; unfortunately they require riders to have a permit with a two-week waiting period.

On doing another search, we landed on Amelia Island. It’s a bit of a drive from the Ocala area — a little over two hours — but if you have the time to spare, it’s definitely one to add to your list.

Rico looks out over the surf. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Rico looks out over the surf. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The Amelia Island State Park is exactly that — a virtually untouched, tourist free beach that allows 15 horses at a time on the beach, free of charge. All you need to do is call the ranger’s office to let them know you’re coming.

We chose Super Bowl Sunday as our day to take on Amelia Island, so I’m not sure if the empty beach we encountered was an anomaly or not, but the fact that the number is limited to 15 at any given time makes it seem like you won’t ever arrive to find a beach choked full of horses and manure.

#bucketlist

Posted by Sally Spickard on Sunday, February 7, 2016

As we rode along the surf, I was amazed at the pristine appearance of the beach — a sheer lack of hoofprints and plenty of sand dunes to explore. As I said, we had the beach to ourselves and were able to ride for a good two or three hours without having to turn back.

This was hands down one of the best horse related experiences of my life. Not only did I get to check a bucket list item off, but it could not have been in any more perfect of conditions. The only thing I wished for was for slightly warmer water to perhaps coax my horse further in!

If you ever have the opportunity to spend time in Ocala, definitely add Amelia Island to your list. I promise, you will not be disappointed!

Sunday Video from Nupafeed: Devoucoux Indoor Derby

By on Feb 7, 2016 5:00 pm -

Another indoor derby has come and gone as the Devoucoux Indoor Derby showed off the skills of several accomplished pairs last night.

It was Karim Florent Laghouag and Punch de l’Esques who were the big winners of this indoor derby, finishing with a final time of 128.49. In fact, it was all French riders at the top of the board, with Spanish rider Albert Hermoso Farras picking up fourth place.

Check out some action:

 

Wonderful Welly World: A Social Media Wrap

By on Feb 7, 2016 11:00 am -

I feel like Happy Gilmore!!

Posted by Boyd Martin on Sunday, February 7, 2016

It was an exciting weekend we will not soon forget down in Wellington for the $75,000 (soon to be $100,000!) Eventing Showcase. Boyd Martin took home the top honors once again, this time aboard the Blackfoot Mystery Syndicate’s Blackfoot Mystery. The strapping chestnut OTTB gelding made quick work of the Captain Mark Phillips cross country yesterday to seal the deal over Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights.

There is plenty of social media to catch up on from the weekend, so let’s get started:

I couldn't have been happier(unless,of course, I had won all the money) with Boris at the #eventingshowcase. He's a real…

Posted by Pollard Eventing on Sunday, February 7, 2016

This is Win the War aka Bug. We love him and his owner Jessica Bortner-Harris. He did fabulous!

Posted by Sunni Ball on Saturday, February 6, 2016

Really could not be happier with this guy who tried his heart out on his best behavior in Wellington :)Thank you so…

Posted by Lynn Symansky on Sunday, February 7, 2016

This guy … ❤️

Posted by Sinead Halpin on Saturday, February 6, 2016

Love Jennie! She's a true horsewoman and I can't wait to see what 2016 brings her and the team

Posted by Rebekkah Redden on Saturday, February 6, 2016

Ride Along with Doug Payne and Vandiver in Wellington

By on Feb 7, 2016 9:00 am -

Doug Payne donned his helmet cam for yesterday’s exciting cross country phase at the $75,000 Wellington Eventing Showcase. Doug piloted his own and Debi Crowley’s Vandiver, or “Quinn”, to a 12th place finish overall in a strong and competitive field.

As is Doug’s style, he dubs over his helmet cam with commentary and analysis of his ride and the course — a super way to learn about each question and the horse Doug is on.

Check out Doug’s helmet cam for the rider’s eye view we’ve all been dying to see. We’re especially excited to see how that VIP tent looks as you gallop through. Thanks to Doug for posting this awesome perspective!

#EventingShowcase: Website, Final Scores, XC Course Map, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, EN’s Instagram

Wellington Cross Country Open Thread: Boyd Martin & Blackfoot Mystery Win!

By on Feb 6, 2016 12:56 pm -
Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery take the win! Photo by Jenni Autry. Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery take the win! Photo by Jenni Autry.

We’re all set to go for the exciting finale at the Wellington Eventing Showcase. This morning proved to be a total nail biter of a second phase as the leaderboard shuffled to put Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery into the lead.

Now we move onto Capt. Mark Phillips’ exciting cross country course, complete with a true shock-factor question that involves a gallop through the VIP tent. Stay tuned for the latest and greatest from the cross country finale right here on EN!

Live Stream: 1 p.m. Sat: Cross Country

3:33 p.m. EST: Here are the final top five. Stay tuned for the full report!

Screenshot_25

3:33 p.m. EST: He’s done it again! Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery WIN!

https://gyazo.com/d293e8aee25bbf6cc5f10474ac911141

3:31 p.m. EST:

3:30 p.m. EST: Good so far:

https://gyazo.com/364a9aba49b73b78cb814499203a7c9f

3:29 p.m. EST: Alright, here we go! Can Boyd make it a back to back win?

3:28 p.m. EST: Big huge pats for CR as Colleen comes home four seconds under the time! “Oh my God, he is phenomenal!” Colleen tells Jimmie.

https://gyazo.com/f14c969b127350679535e43be1f7dc2a

3:26 p.m. EST: Colleen’s got the pedal to the medal and really means business out there aboard Covert Rights.

3:25 p.m. EST: Colleen is “balls to the walls out there,” according to Dom.

https://gyazo.com/f4d942f8e1360f5d5790903384528211

3:24 p.m. EST: Ok, this whole weekend has just been a Kiwi Master Class! What a class round from Dan Jocelyn and Devil Munchkin. Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights are the penultimate pair of the day!

3:23 p.m. EST Kick on, Dan! Second catch ride of the day on Devil Munchkin.
https://gyazo.com/69443a2fb67f393a947577e4ecc144b5

3:21 p.m. EST:

3:17 p.m. EST: That Arthur gallop tho…

https://gyazo.com/e6437e510d9cb899c765bae8054ee7f3

3:16 p.m. EST: We’re getting closer and closer! Allison and Arthur are on course.

3:11 p.m. EST:

3:09 p.m. EST: Go Reggie, go!
https://gyazo.com/bfc975aabf658287cea3390f30e9cdbb

3:06 p.m. EST: Jennie is home with a big fist bump aboard Catalina! Next up are Buck and Reggie.

3:06 p.m. EST:

3:03 p.m. EST: Jennie Brannigan is back on course with Catalina.

3:01 p.m. EST:

3:00 p.m. EST: Marilyn Little and RF Demeter are total cross country pros. Looking good so far.

https://gyazo.com/1beeb04bc5ed132359726db8ac923b4b

2:57 p.m. EST: Smooth and clear for Lynn and Donner!
https://gyazo.com/e44b619098dc1c15a8901ec7f3cba7fd

2:56 p.m. EST: Flying Deer time!
https://gyazo.com/548506239868be6d52be0b857932b7ca

2:52 p.m. EST: Oh no! Quite a tumble for Hannah Sue and Cooley Dream. Both are up and appear to be ok.

2:50 p.m. EST:

2:49 p.m. EST: Hannah Sue Burnett and Cooley Dream are on course!

https://gyazo.com/6dcf91d2cd5c64c7e53f37290030f71d

2:49 p.m. EST:

2:45 p.m. EST: Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Catchascatchcan are our latest starters.

https://gyazo.com/b95b0cf37a08a0f451d3be158b6fdc0c

2:44 p.m. EST: Clear with time for Michael Pollard! He’s got a newer ride in Boris as well.

2:44 p.m. EST:

2:40 p.m. EST: Michael Pollard and the very lofty jumping Boris O’Hara are the next pair out on course.

2:39 p.m. EST: Clear and inside the time for Tim and Novelle.

2:38 p.m. EST: Looking strong, Tim and Novelle! This mare is flying.

https://gyazo.com/8737110e03c7a616c008456485388ef7

2:37 p.m. EST:

@dpequestrian through the #tent at the #eventingshowcase in #wellington

A video posted by Allie Conrad (@alliemcboobles) on

2:36 p.m. EST We are into the top 15 now with Tim Price and Novelle, his second catch ride of the day.

2:35 p.m. EST:

2:35 p.m. EST: Vandiver leapt out of the tent and is home clear!
https://gyazo.com/61d6de007a17528bc943bf847bb765b3

2:34 p.m. EST:

Tate is still my favorite and a xc monster !!!!

Posted by Meg Kep on Saturday, February 6, 2016

2:32 p.m. EST
https://gyazo.com/66ddc08ea7a6a8bfb91c59296341f378

2:31 p.m. EST:

2:31 p.m. EST: Doug Payne and Vandiver are out on course. Liz came home clear with time on HHS Cooley.

2:30 p.m. EST:
https://gyazo.com/76916604a36ecadea7ef8509621963d7

2:29 p.m. EST:

2:28 p.m. EST:

Ok that’s ridiculous and #awesome #wellingtonshowcase #Eventing #eventingshowcase

A video posted by Allie Conrad (@alliemcboobles) on

2:27 p.m. EST:

2:26 p.m. EST: Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley are our newest starters.

2:25 p.m. EST: Welcome Shadow takes a flyer at the skinny down the hill but they’re home clear!

2:24 p.m. EST:
https://gyazo.com/e098d94f691a0072e766fdf7c8483859

2:23 p.m. EST:

2:22 p.m. EST: Boyd and his first ride, Welcome Shadow, are on course!

2:22 p.m. EST:

2:21 p.m. EST: Phillip and Cuba absolutely skipped home! Definitely one of the fastest of the day.

https://gyazo.com/0b3dfdc1e8975b8804c653483bb6f1be

2:20 p.m. EST: #SchrammoQuotes: “He ain’t muckin’ around here.”

2:19 p.m. EST: Phillip and Cuba catch some air and look like they’re enjoying themselves early on.

https://gyazo.com/28a3e4790384e1bb91f59911c7b15421

2:18 p.m. EST: Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn, his first of two, are on course!

2:16 p.m. EST: Jessie and Bentley’s Best are looking cracking as they head for home!

https://gyazo.com/b86b75a8ccf14226d13aad7903cfad65

2:15 p.m. EST:

2:14 p.m. EST:
https://gyazo.com/6c80f52bb758ba05bf260ffa7c283715

2:14 p.m. EST:

2:13 p.m. EST: Jessica Phoenix and Bentley’s Best are our newest starters!

2:12 p.m. EST: Joe Meyer and Clip Clop bring home our second clear of the day! “He was fantastic!”

2:11 p.m. EST:

2:09 p.m. EST: Joe and Clip Clop have perhaps the nicest ride so far through the double corners.

2:09 p.m. EST: Joe Meyer is back at it again, this time with Clip Clop.

2:08 p.m. EST: She’s made the time! By .32 seconds, wow. And on a horse that is definitely a new ride for her, formerly ridden by Heath Ryan.

https://gyazo.com/0dacb6be4d5f52491aaeab62b05e1e6b

2:06 p.m. EST: I wish I would’ve caught this a shade earlier, but Jennie really wants that time! She got in her jockey position for a moment as she really opened Aspire R up.

https://gyazo.com/5cf71e4a5db473a0633998ae8db1ad79

2:05 p.m. EST: Aspire R gets “a little flicky flick from the whippy whip,” in Dom’s colorful terms, as a reminder from pilot Jennie Brannigan.

https://gyazo.com/7ae7712d311d036d089e9fb61fa4bb99

2:03 p.m. EST: 11 seconds over the time for Ryan and “Skippy”, who “skips along like a kangaroo,” according to Ryan. Jennie Brannigan and Aspire R are out on course now.

2:01 p.m. EST: Ryan and Woodstock Bennett are super accurate as they make their way around course. He is slipping a bit around a couple of these turns – it will be interesting to see how the footing holds up as it handles more horses.

https://gyazo.com/17199efff5f4e9028d232261c9f91320

2:00 p.m. EST: Ryan Wood and Woodstock Bennett are our newest riders on course.

1:59 p.m. EST: “I glad I made it that far,” Buck says of the VIP tent “runway” as he comes home clear aboard Carlevo. Dom overhears Buck telling his groom that it’s a bit slippery out on course. Stud it up, riders!

https://gyazo.com/ab923f7cd37cc78fca108adcdf6d8418

1:57 p.m. EST: Buck took a very interesting route to the double corners but he made it work and he’s clear through the water aboard Carlevo! #gobuckgo

https://gyazo.com/686f8655004954bf3d021708d223023f

1:55 p.m. EST: Kyle has to duck a bit more than the others to get through the tent but he’s home clear! “I was hoping someone was going to hand me a drink as I came through the tent!” Someone get the man a drink! Buck Davidson and Carlevo are our next starters.

1:53 p.m. EST: Kyle still looking strong through the last half of the course.

https://gyazo.com/e42c9400ba7a2e4fa55b5bf3437f20ee

1:52 p.m. EST: Kyle and FR’s Trust Fund take the long route through the double corners.

https://gyazo.com/cc45fc3046df443caa8702f63a6d21c7

1:50 p.m. EST: “It was tough to keep him focused … no better horse to ride cross country!” Allie says to Jimmie after her clear round. Kyle Carter and FR’s Trust Fund are next out.

1:48 p.m. EST: Allie and Sounder looking bold and strong so far.

https://gyazo.com/fdf14d7adc1f5ee1d70b60180f99ec03

1:46 p.m. EST: Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect are our next starters.

1:46 p.m. EST: “I’ve never ate so well in my life,” Selena says of this weekend.

1:45 p.m. EST: Selena and Woody are home 14 seconds over time.

https://gyazo.com/f3e08f3d4617c142e2f0954786e57dc6

1:44 p.m. EST: Correction, Dan Jocelyn and Win the War had 4.8 time penalties. Still the fastest so far.

1:43 p.m. EST: Look at that Woody gallop!

https://gyazo.com/68ba109d43035039aed56b9fd68d9e6c

1:41 p.m. EST: “He’s just a game, good jumper. One too many whoas coming down the hill — whoops,” Colleen tells Jimmie. Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High are on course!

1:41 p.m. EST: Colleen and Escot 6 have a drive by at the skinny coming down the hill.

1:40 p.m. EST: As Dom put it, “That horse can seriously, seriously jump.”

https://gyazo.com/1696e4e33acbccc7da543f31c700b678

1:38 p.m. EST: Remember, Colleen was the only one to bring home two double clear show jump rounds earlier. Can she repeat on the cross country course?

https://gyazo.com/767473819a83b1e1a478ce96f3ef39d3

1:37 p.m. EST: Colleen Rutledge and Escot 6 are our newest starters.

1:35 p.m. EST: Dan and Bug are our first double clear of the day! “He gave me a great ride, he felt like a very experienced horse,” Dan said. Owner Jessica Bortner-Harris will be thrilled.

1:35 p.m. EST: Hang on, Dan!

https://gyazo.com/f2dcbe4fc238d45e92afec06936d1a49

1:33 p.m. EST: Dan and Bug are catching some air out there!

https://gyazo.com/b02b089b827aa96bc04567a4cdaab048

1:32 p.m. EST: Dan Jocelyn and Win the War are out next.

1:32 p.m. EST: The optimum time is 3 minutes 53 seconds. Sinead and Tate are home clear just a shade over time.

1:31 p.m. EST: Joe Meyer and South Paw are our fastest of the day so far with 6.4 time picked up.

1:29 p.m. EST: The French Princess looks to be having a blast out there.

https://gyazo.com/9059ed8a3469f0c16cd35c3bc90196d8

1:28 p.m. EST: This should be a treat. Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville are on course.

1:28 p.m. EST: The tent is really not impressing these horses at all. Jessie and A Little Romance are home clear and Jessie says she’s “amazing.”

https://gyazo.com/098bedba1a27998f820d096f804e8e95

1:26 p.m. EST: Jessica and A Little Romance are quick footed around this course.

https://gyazo.com/f7657cd519d9a642349e2a260bb57b30

1:24 p.m. EST: Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance are our new starters!

https://gyazo.com/3402abcb373c6f2d556d393d8e99df63

1:20 p.m. EST: Allison says Cascani has not gone Advanced yet so this was a big test for him. He certainly stepped up to the plate! Erin Sylvester and Mattraise make it through a scrappy save at the corners and are well on their way.

1:16 p.m. EST: Allison and Cascani take a forward five through the double corners.
animation

1:14 p.m. EST: Allison Springer and Cascani are now on course.

1:13 p.m. EST: Be sure to check out our course preview with photos here.

1:12 p.m. EST: Tim and Clasico Z call it a day after two more stops at the big ditch and brush. Bummer.

1:11 p.m. EST: Tim and Clasico Z have a runout at the second corner early on course. Clear on the second attempt.

1:10 p.m. EST: “He never looked at the tent, I didn’t think he would,” Joe Meyer says to Jimmie after he pulls up. Tim Price and Clasico Z are our next starters.

1:09 p.m. EST: The skinny arrowhead before the VIP tent takes a victim in Joe Meyer and South Paw. Through the tent question.

1:08 p.m. EST Sinead Halpin has withdrawn Grey Area.

1:06 p.m. EST: Next up, Joe Meyer and the lovely stallion South Paw.

1:05 p.m. EST: Ok, the tent thing is pretty cool. Madison Park was just casual about it. “These people are here for me, right?”

1:01 p.m. EST:: And we’re underway with Kyle Carter and Madison Park!

1:00 p.m. EST: Here is a look at the course map.

Screenshot_24

Bailey Moran Furthers Her Education by Heading West

By on Feb 4, 2016 9:00 am -
Bailey Moran and Loughnatousa Caislean. Photo by Dan Moran. Bailey Moran and Loughnatousa Caislean. Photo by Dan Moran.

There is always something to be said about a young rider with a thirst for education. Bailey Moran, a Texas native, is on a quest for knowledge this winter as she spends the off-season months training with Tamie Smith in Murietta, California.

Another big goal in spending the winter with Tamie is to take another cracking at stepping up to Advanced level with her 11-year-old Irish Sport horse gelding, Loughnatousa Caislean. Bailey and “Leo” last tried to complete an Advanced event at Rocking Horse last year, but things didn’t go according to plan.

“It was probably about the 15th fence on cross country — a skinny out of the water — and I just completely missed and ran him right into it,” Bailey said. “He jumped it anyway because he’s a good boy, but I was so out of the tack that I just popped off.”

Bailey had been working hard to prepare for her move up, working with her longtime trainer Donna Kinney as well as Joe Meyer. But the blip that she had at her first try at Advanced was enough to give her confidence a bit of a shake.

“It got to me enough that I got backed off with my riding,” Bailey said. After giving her goals some thought, Bailey reached out to Tamie Smith, whom she had met at the 2012 USEA Annual Meeting and Convention.

“We had immediately hit it off and clicked. (Tamie) was so gracious and friendly, and (my family and I) have gotten to know her,” Bailey said. Tamie was able to give Bailey a few lessons in Texas, and from there the idea was born to travel to California to spend more time under her eye.

Bailey Moran and Loughnatousa Caislean. Photo credit to Storey Crenshaw.

Bailey Moran and Loughnatousa Caislean. Photo credit to Storey Crenshaw.

Bailey made the decision to take Leo to California with her, intending to have another go at Advanced in 2016. “The plan is for me to run him Intermediate at Galway this weekend and then for Tamie to take him Advanced after that. We’re both so new to this — neither of us have done this before — so I think Tamie giving him the brave ride he needs will really give him confidence.”

Now that Bailey and Leo are preparing for their first California event this weekend, she says she’s feeling her mojo coming back. “I texted my parents the other day and told them how nice it was to be excited and feel prepared for an event,” she said. “Tamie has really worked on getting my base stronger — putting me in the position I need to be to ride effectively.”

Bailey is also fortunate to have a great mentor and coach back in Texas in Donna Kinney. “Donna has been amazing — she’s like a second mother to me,” she said. “She has been in consistent contact with Tamie to find out what she needs to work with me on when I go back. She’s a true student of the sport and is always looking to learn new things.”

Bailey Moran and Loughnatousa Caislean. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Bailey Moran and Loughnatousa Caislean. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Another advantage of competing in California is the array of events to choose from on the calendar, even early in the season. “It’s nice here because if you run and things don’t go as well as you’d like, it’s easy to re-route,” Bailey said. “It really gives us the ability to be flexible with Leo’s schedule and not push too hard.”

Now that she’s settled into her new routine at Next Level Eventing, Bailey feels right at home. “The minute you walk into the barn, you’re welcomed by family,” she said. “It’s very drama-free, and everyone just wants the best for you. It’s a great environment to be in, and I’d definitely love to come back sometime.”

We wish Bailey and Leo all the best with their plans for 2016 and are thrilled to hear that their trip to California is going so well!

Go Eventing.

Tuesday News & Notes from Cavalor

By on Feb 2, 2016 12:01 am -
Photo by Sally Spickard. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Being down here in Ocala for the winter is quite a surreal feeling if we’re being honest. To be surrounded by great riders and beautiful horse farms no matter which direction you look — it truly is eventer’s paradise. It’s also more than a little intimidating to be here among all the greats with a green horse. But as several people have shrewdly said, it makes you step up your game and want to be even better for being immersed in this world. That’s my daily tidbit of inspiration for you: surround yourself by others who are just as dedicated and hard working as you, and watch your own skill set blossom.

Events Opening This Week:

 Pine Top Spring H.T. (GA, A-3),  Feather Creek Farm H.T. (OK, A-5),  Copper Meadows Winter H.T. (CA, A-6)

Events Closing Today:

Fresno County Horse Park CIC & H.T. (CA, A-6), Rocking Horse Winter II H.T. (FL, A-3),  Paradise Farm H.T. (SC, A-3)

Tuesday News:

Looking to add a little color to your eventing wardrobe? Look no further than this week’s Fab Freebie featuring a colorful cross country pinny holder just for you. It’s high time someone thought of this idea! [Fab Freebie: Color Cross Country Pinny Holder]

Please join us in congratulating Bridget Parker, who has officially taken the reins at the Nunney International Horse Trials. Held in Somerset, Nunney is a staple event on the European calendar, and organizing is no small undertaking. Bridget is an Olympic gold medalist who brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. [Nunney International Horse Trials]

FLAIR Nasal Strips will be offering free applications at Galway Downs this week! Beginning on Thursday, you can set up an appointment with a FLAIR representative for your free application. Appointments may be made by calling 612-913-1395.

We’re loving the USEA’s Grid Pro Quo series, and the latest one features tips and tricks from Tim Bourke. You can use this suggested exercise for any level to focus on quality of jumping and responsiveness to aids. [Grid Pro Quo: Tim Bourke]

Tuesday Video:

Speaking of grid work, here’s another #GOTD from Laine Ashker:

Finally! A long overdue #GOTD and although it may look simple and easy you better think again! Set up three barrels…

Posted by Lainey Ashker on Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: What a 15.2 Dressage Score Looks Like

By on Feb 1, 2016 5:30 pm -

Flashy boy Oskar performing his winning 15.6 dressage test yesterday! Love this special horse- wish I could keep him!

Posted by Liz Halliday on Sunday, January 31, 2016

If you’ve ever wondered what a dressage test worthy of a 15.2 score looks like, here’s your answer. Liz Halliday-Sharp piloted HS Oskar, a 2009 Holsteiner gelding by Coriando, to a win in the Training Horse C division at Rocking Horse Winter I Horse Trials this past weekend in Florida.

Oskar certainly had his fancy prancing shoes on. If you’re in the market, this lovely horse is for sale! You can view more information on Liz’s sales page here.

[Rocking Horse Winter I H.T. Results]

Fab Freebie: Win a Colorful Cross Country Pinny Holder!

By on Feb 1, 2016 8:45 am -
Photo courtesy of Jon Sonkin. Photo courtesy of Jon Sonkin.

It’s time to get geared up for the 2016 season! We’re here to help with the ongoing needs of the color-conscious eventer, and thanks to Jon Sonkin we are offering up a brand new product in cross country equipment: a color pinny holder to completely top off your coordinated look out on course.

These stylish pinny holders come in an array of colors: green, red, black, purple and blue. There is literally something for just about every eventer out there, and they’re definitely catching on.

Justine Dutton models her new custom colored pinny holder. Photo via Justine on Facebook.

Justine Dutton models her new custom colored pinny holder. Photo via Justine on Facebook.

The holders are also available in custom colors through special order and are durable, comfortable and feature extra support on the lower strap to ensure your pinny doesn’t go flying when you get up to speed.

Prices for these pinny holders are $50 for a standard solid color, $65 for any two colors, and $100 with some added bling to spice things up. To order your own, email Jon here.

In the meantime, we’re teaming up with Jon to give away a solid colored pinny holder in this week’s Fab Freebie! You can use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter, and we’ll announce the winner in this Friday’s News & Notes. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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.

Brand New Eyes

By on Jan 29, 2016 5:00 pm -
Photo by Sally Spickard via EN on Instagram. Photo by Sally Spickard via EN on Instagram.

There is something to be said about attending a horse trial at the beginning of the season. Perhaps I am sentimental or overly emotional, but it just doesn’t get much better than watching some of the country and world’s best out and about in the early goings of a fresh season.

Walking around Rocking Horse Winter I today, there was a palpable excitement in the air. Relief that the 2016 season is officially in full swing, happiness in the glow of a warm Florida afternoon, glee on the faces of riders who are tackling a pipe opening cross country run.

Out on the Intermediate cross country course, scores of horses and riders galloped past on a day when clear rounds were prominent and the rust got knocked off on the way back to the finish line.

Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM, who are perhaps one of the best relationships to witness between horse and rider, gleefully galloped across the finish, with Buck all but dropping his reins and letting Reggie finish up on his own.

Diane Portwood and Cinerescent bounced around the course, Diane encouraging her mare the whole way round.

I’ve said it many times before and I will say it again — eventers are a whole different culture. The casual conversations between competitors, the helping hand always offered to hold a horse or give a leg up, the bustling of working students and grooms who help even the busiest of riders have a smooth day — everything just feels brand new and fresh at this time of year.

Here in Ocala, it’s easy to look ahead and see a promising 2016. The season is just starting, and it’s as if the whole word is there for the taking.

So here’s to new beginnings, fresh starts and brand new eyes. We can’t wait to see what 2016 brings, and we’re thrilled to be here with you every step of the way.

Check Out This Insane Hunt Derby — Would You Try It?

By on Jan 29, 2016 1:00 pm -

6 months since Falsterbo, hope to be back this summer, Sydsvenskan Falsterbo hunting 2015.

Posted by Fanny Nilsson on Sunday, January 17, 2016

Talk about a good challenge! The Sydsvenskan Falsterbo Hunting is a show jumping and cross country cross held in Sweden. The class is designed for horses and riders with one-star experience. Fanny Nilsson posted her helmet cam from her 2015 round and we think this is pretty neat.

There is a lot to take in once you leave the main arena as the track takes you through what appears to be the trade fair and even the dressage ring. Talk about insanity in the middle.

So, EN, what do you think? Would you give this a shot?

#FlashbackFriday: How the Buck Does He Do It?

By on Jan 29, 2016 9:00 am -

In honor of the first Rocking Horse event of the new year, we're bringing back one of our favorite posts from the archives. Enjoy!

A depiction of a typical event weekend for Buck Davidson. Illustration by Lindsey Kahn. A depiction of a typical event weekend for Buck Davidson. Illustration by Lindsey Kahn.

I was perusing the ride timetable for the Rocking Horse Winter I Horse Trials this weekend, and I couldn’t help but stare at Buck Davidson’s ride times for a few minutes. If I’m being honest, I think I went a little cross-eyed trying to make sense of it all. As has become a Buck tradition it seems, the man had 9 rides this weekend.

That’s 27 trips in the saddle. While I do understand that Buck is a consummate professional, I immediately felt weak and fatigued at the thought of 9 rides crammed into 36 hours.

Then I looked past the sheer number of rides to the timetable of how this all went down. After numerous graphs and diagrams, I eventually gave up on trying to make sense of how this was going to happen successfully. Take a look for yourself (this has been updated for the 2016 Rocking Horse I times!):

Buck's ride times for the first Rocking Horse of 2016.

Buck’s ride times for the first Rocking Horse of 2016.

Makes you a little dizzy, doesn’t it? Since we were feeling at bit lost at the thought of how many working students it would take to make this operation run, Lindsey and I put our heads together and thought we would pay tribute to Buck: the man, the myth, the legend. As Lindsey so thoughtfully illustrated above, it would only make sense to have some sort of map like this drawn out ahead of time so that everyone involved knew where they had to be and when.

Buck, we don’t know how you do it. We don’t know how any of you pros do it, actually. Give me one horse and three ride times and I already have enough anxiety to last me a full week. So thank you, Buck, and every other pro and working student out there who make our heads spin with the sheer amount of dedication you show to your job. We salute you!

Wednesday News & Notes from SmartPak

By on Jan 27, 2016 12:01 am -
Photo courtesy of Kim Keppick. Photo courtesy of Kim Keppick.

There is still so much snow on the ground! We’re still seeing numerous photos of various stages of snow removal, as well as a few of people and their horses out enjoying (is that the right word?) the drifts. EN reader Kim Keppick sent us this “between the ears” shot from Virginia, courtesy of Joey Snider of Hume, Virginia. Keep digging, everyone!

Weekend Preview:

Rocking Horse Winter I HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times

Full Gallop Farm January HT: [Website] [Entry Status]

News & Notes:

Did you know it’s a common colic myth that if your horse is passing manure, he’s fine? According to a new article from Kentucky Performance Products, veterinary surgeons are saying this may not necessarily be true. Passing manure does not rule out the possibility of a blockage higher up. [KPP Nutritional Minute]

Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino in Sunland Park, New Mexico has suspended racing after some horses were diagnosed with EHV-1. To date, there have been 12 confirmed cases. The quarantine could have other effects on the track, as the March Sunland Derby is a Derby prep and could be affected. [Sunland Park Has EHV-1 Outbreak]

Uceko, one of Kent Farrington’s top show jumpers, has got to have one of the most adorable faces there is. Don’t let his sweet face fool you though — he’s a fierce competitor in the ring. The Chronicle of the Horse got to know him a little better in their latest Behind the Stall Door installment. [Behind the Stall Door: Uceko]

SmartPak Product of the Day: Traveling down to Florida has been a tricky challenge when it comes to blanketing. I am a bit of an overpacker, so I packed almost every blanket I have for my horse. What has really come in handy the most, though, is my Amigo Jersey Cooler. I picked this up recently and am absolutely IN LOVE with it. The jersey knit is really top-quality and doesn’t give the impression that it will pill or deteriorate. This thin layer provides just enough protection from a slight chill after a good work. At this affordable price, I definitely recommend it! [Amigo Jersey Cooler]

And lastly…

Are Puissance’s with width challenges instead of height the next big thing? This girl is already preparing:

Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: The Making of an Olympian

By on Jan 26, 2016 5:30 pm -

As if we hadn’t embarrassed Boyd Martin enough in the last few days … First, he runs wild through Wellington while filming a commercial, and then his wife Silva sent us this video of Boyd back when he was just a kid cantering over logs in a field.

Meet Willy, Boyd’s childhood pony. Willy is a solid citizen who happily carries Boyd all over the property, including over a course of makeshift cross country jumps. (Please note the posters that Boyd hangs in Willy’s stall to keep him “motivated” to compete.)

As any good cross county course designer would, Boyd picked out names for all the fences on his course. We decided to start a reader poll in favor of the best fence name, so vote for your favorite below!

Why SpectraVET?

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SpectraVET is committed to providing only the highest-quality products and services to our customers, and to educating the world in the science and art of laser therapy.

We design and manufacture the broadest range of clinically-proven veterinary therapeutic laser products, which are represented and supported worldwide by our network of specialist distributors and authorized service centers.

Tuesday News & Notes from Cavalor

By on Jan 26, 2016 12:01 am -
Photo via Joe Williams on Facebook. Photo via Joe Williams on Facebook.

Ok, so I know this is not necessarily eventing-related, but hear me out. The barn my coach and I are renting stalls from in Ocala this winter is home to a couple of accomplished Mustang Makeover trainers, Joe and Colby Williams. This past week, they each brought home a new mustang to start fresh with and have 100 days to put in as much training as they can.

Joe’s mustang mare, Maybelline, is literally the most sane horse I’ve ever seen. So sane, in fact, that he was able to ride her on the first day she arrived. It’s insane to see how responsive she is to training, and it’s been really interesting to see first hand. Stay tuned for a full blog series following these mustangs over on our sister site, Horse Nation!

Events Opening Today:

Southern Pines H.T. (NC, A-2),  Red Hills International Horse Trials & Trade Fair (FL, A-3),  Full Gallop Farm March II H.T. (SC, A-3)

Events Closing This Week:

Pine Top Intermediate Horse Trials (GA, A-3), Full Gallop Farm February H.T. (SC, A-3),  Ocala Horse Properties Winter II H.T. (FL, A-3)

Tuesday News:

The USEA’s Grid Pro Quo series is an excellent resource for education and new ideas to spice up your training. The exercises can be made as high or low as desired, which is great because it’s useful for horses and riders of all abilities. Check out the latest edition featuring advice from Holly Hudspeth. [Grid Pro Quo with Holly Hudspeth]

We all know the risk that our gray horses run for melanomas. It’s a scary thought and unfortunately all too common in our fair skinned friends. There may be some good news out there, though, as testing is underway for the canine melanoma vaccine and its effectiveness on horses. [Canine Melanoma Vaccine Testing]

Superstar Valegro’s equally superstar groom, Alan Davies, was awarded the British Grooms Award last week in honor of his service to his charge. Congratulations to Alan! [British Riders and Grooms Honored at British Breeders Awards]

Tuesday Video:

I don’t know about you, but this is a much more exciting reveal than a fashion runway any day. Check out the new line of products coming up from Professional’s Choice in 2016!