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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

David O’Connor, Silvio Mazzoni Impart Knowledge at Ocala ICP Symposium

By on Feb 22, 2016 3:00 pm -
Auditors gather to watch Silvio Mazzoni teach day two of the Ocala ICP Symposium. Photo by Sally Spickard. Auditors gather to watch Silvio Mazzoni teach day two of the Ocala ICP Symposium. Photo by Sally Spickard.

There was much to be learned in last week’s Ocala ICP Symposium, held at the beautiful Longwood Farm South. Featuring clinics and lectures from David O’Connor and Silvio Mazzoni, the U.S. Chef d’Equipe and U.S. Show Jumping Coach, respectively, both the demo riders and the large audience were able to take new tools home with them when it comes to instruction.

Day two of the symposium involved a show jumping lesson for both the Training/Prelim as well as the Intermediate/Advanced riders. Silvio took the reins on this day, methodically setting up gymnastic exercises that tested both horse and rider.

Silvio took the time to address each horse and rider, focusing on the key points of straightness and position effectiveness. Without an effective position, he explained, the horse was unable to know or perform its job correctly. He reminded many riders to avoid getting defensive with their hands when on stronger horses, instead encouraging the horses to seek the bit even over fences.

Silvio’s gymnastic was progressively raised in height and involved a bounce to a one stride to a second bounce and ending on another one stride. This kept the horse’s feet moving while encouraging the rider to maintain an effective position in order to achieve straightness and a correct jump.

From there, the lesson progressed to a full course that again challenged the riders to find straight lines aboard a responsive and adjustable horse. He instructed the riders to halt after jumping an oxer on a diagonal line, again reminding them to use their seat and leg to achieve the halt rather than a defensive and aggressive hand.

Demo riders for the Training/Prelim group on Tuesday were AJ Dyer, Megan Gardiner, Steph Kohr, and Marah Lueders. The Intermediate/Advanced group for Silvio’s lesson were Hannah Sue Burnett, Leah Lang-Glucsic, Lara Knight, Jeanie Clarke, and Sally Buchheister.

Monday’s session included many thoughtful insights from David O’Connor on all three phases of eventing. You can read the full reports over on the USEA here.

Many thanks to Event Clinics for sponsoring a fun and educational seminar that contributes immensely to the further education of both rider and instructor. The ICP Symposiums are an excellent opportunity to learn, and the ICP Certification Program is also available for those who wish to become more involved as coaches.

Ride Around Rocking Horse with Laine Ashker & Anthony Patch

By on Feb 22, 2016 1:00 pm -

Laine Ashker brought Anthony Patch out for his first full run since completing Burghley last fall at Rocking Horse Winter II this weekend. The pair finished in second place in the Open Intermediate division, and Laine donned her trusty GoPro to document her first ride of the season aboard a keen looking “Al.”

Ride along with Laine and Al here:

Finally! I’ve been waiting to post one of these since early September of last year! Here’s #GoAlGopro helmet cam from…

Posted by Lainey Ashker on Sunday, February 21, 2016

Eventing Stakeholders Aiming for Consensus on Olympic Format

By on Feb 22, 2016 8:45 am -
FEI President Ingmar De Vos, left, with the three Olympic discipline Chairs, Frank Kemperman (dressage), John Madden (jumping) and Giuseppe Della Chiesa (eventing) at yesterdays General Assembly. Photo by FEI/Richard Juilliart. FEI President Ingmar De Vos, left, with the three Olympic discipline Chairs, Frank Kemperman (dressage), John Madden (jumping) and Giuseppe Della Chiesa (eventing) at yesterdays General Assembly. Photo by FEI/Richard Juilliart.

Bruce Haskell, president of ERA International, has penned an open letter in light of a meeting be held in London tomorrow for key stakeholders and representatives in the sport to discuss the future of eventing under the Olympic Agenda 2020.

You can view the entire letter open letter by clicking here, and read on for key highlights. The meeting, hosted by British Eventing and chaired by David Holmes, will bring together representatives from many national governing bodies to search for solutions ahead of the FEI Sports Forum in April, where the new Olympic formats for all equestrian disciplines will be presented. Click here to see the current proposed changes for eventing’s Olympic format.

“The proposed format has some significant changes that intend to meet the (International Olympic Committee) suggested criteria for making our sport more easily understood to a wider audience and increasing nation participation,” Bruce said. “It also makes a clear attempt to retain the ‘core’ of eventing whilst enhancing the separation from team and individual medals.”

ERA International acknowledges the divisive nature of many of the proposed changes to the Olympic format of eventing and has identified three core issues that remain divisive:

  • 3 in a team with no drop score
  • Show jumping running order. Individual first or last.
  • Inclusion of composite teams and a moderated scoring system.

“Eventing has to be careful at this point and consider the future of what our sport will look like at all levels. The Olympics, as we have seen in past, has a top down effect of the rest of the sport,” Bruce said. “There is a potential influence that in order to meet IOC criteria of the Olympic Eventing competition being the highest level of our sport, we may have to use this format at all team competitions.”

The intent of tomorrow’s meeting is to draw conclusions, even if the conclusion is that a consensus cannot be achieved. “The meeting is seen as as a way of supporting the FEI Eventing Committee to be able to produce an Olympic Format that both meets the changing needs of the sport and the need for change from the IOC,” Bruce said.

“Whatever the outcome will be ERA International is aware that change needs to occur. Change will never suit all stakeholders. We must all look to find a balance between the role of eventing in the evolving nature of sport as medium of entertainment and the traditional values of our unique sport. The time for change is upon us and this meeting is essential to defining what that change looks like and what eventing looks like in the future.”

We will continue to provide updates on the meeting and future developments within the FEI as eventing’s Olympic format continues to evolve. In the meantime, you can view the open letter from ERA International in its entirety here: ERA International 2020 meeting 23-2-16 open letter.

[Will Eventing Become ‘Equestrian Triathlon’ By 2020 Olympics?]

More Than 125 Eventers Entered in 2016 Thoroughbred Makeover

By on Feb 16, 2016 1:15 pm -
Emily Daignault-Salvaggio and Gin Joint, winners of the Field Hunter division at the 2015 Thoroughbred Makeover. Photo by Heather Benson. Emily Daignault-Salvaggio and Gin Joint, winners of the Field Hunter division at the 2015 Thoroughbred Makeover. Photo by Heather Benson.

The Retired Racehorse Project has released the list of trainers that registered for this year’s Thoroughbred Makeover, which will be held October 27-30, 2016, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. The list is highlighted by 13 Advanced level event riders, including names such as Tik Maynard (who won the 2015 Freestyle in this competition), Kendal Lehari, Dorothy Crowell, Cathy Wieschhoff, Jane Sleeper, Elisa Wallace, Selena O’Hanlon and Denny Emerson.

A total of 129 entrants selected eventing as their primary discipline for the Thoroughbred Makeover, with an additional 50 selecting eventing as their secondary discipline. Based on those 179 total potential entries, eventing is the second most prominently represented sport within the Makeover, just behind show jumping with 181 total potential entries.

All 10 of the discipline winners from last year’s Makeover applied to return to defend their titles, along with 73 other Makeover alumni on new horses. The remaining group of nearly 400 trainers will be entering the Makeover for the first time, making it what “may be the most diverse group of accomplished horse trainers ever to gather in one place,” RRP President Steuart Pittman said.

“Reading through the applications of these 480 trainers was like opening Christmas presents. Off-track Thoroughbreds dominated the horse show world in this country when they were in the barns of our very best riders and trainers. We believe that a key to restoring demand for these horses is matching some of them with the best trainers. Doing so not only increases their chances of winning, but it encourages those trainers’ clients and fans to consider an off-track Thoroughbred,” Steuart said.

“With the carrot of $100,000 in prize money, lots of promotion and a buzz among the horse industry too loud to ignore, we have recruited trainers who are leaders in their sports. Many of these trainers have barns full of warmbloods and Quarter Horses. Some grew up on Thoroughbreds and feel like this is coming home. Others are trying something completely new.”

The Makeover offers divisions in barrel racing, competitive trail, dressage, eventing, field hunter, freestyle, polo, show hunter, show jumping and working ranch. In total, 480 trainers from 45 states will compete in this year’s Makeover for prize money totaling $100,000.

You can view much more information on the Thoroughbred Makeover here, and check out the video below for more details on this year’s Makeover applicants. We’ll keep you posted on the eventing trainers’ progress with their horses and look forward to seeing how the field shakes out in October.

Behind the Scenes with BDJ Eventing and Ballynoe Castle RM

By on Feb 16, 2016 11:00 am -
Cheesing like a child with Reggie, Buck and Kathleen. Photo by Kelly Dutton.

Cheesing like a child with Reggie, Buck and Kathleen. Photo by Kelly Dutton.

It all began during a simple conversation with Buck Davidson. A few of EN’s loyal readers had mused about what would happen if Buck were to wear a FitBit during an event weekend (when it’s not unusual to see him riding 10 or more horses), so I decided to ask him to wear mine at Rocking Horse II this weekend.

Being a good sport, Buck kindly agreed to that request and then threw me a curveball: “Come over to the farm anytime … you can ride Reggie.” Yes, THAT Reggie — Carl and Cassie Segal’s superstar Ballynoe Castle RM.

I asked Buck yesterday if he had some time for me to drop by the farm this week, which was followed by a phone call asking if I could be at his farm in an hour. Yep, sure can.

My coach, Kelly, and I arrived at Buck’s winter base in Ocala and immediately felt immersed in a different world. The farm itself is 600 acres, and Buck rents two of the barns, one for his horses and the other for his students who come down for the winter. There is a large jump field, a full dressage arena in another field, and a cross country field in addition to a 5/8 mile track and acreage as far as the eye can see for hacking and galloping.

In short, there is everything an eventer would need. The farm itself has a welcoming air to it — lots of friendly faces and happy horses.

Buck’s plan was to have his longtime student Woodge Fulton run through her Advanced test on Reggie before letting me get on, which meant we were able to watch Buck teach and ride for a bit before Woodge finished. Every direction you could crane your neck was a different upper level horse and/or rider out for a school or hack. There was truly not enough time to take everything in!

Nature walking. Photo by Kelly Dutton.

Nature walking. Photo by Kelly Dutton.

After Woodge got through her test, it was my turn. Let me stop here and say that I was a complete nervous wreck who was convinced that I’d somehow grab my outside rein too hard and immediately break poor Reggie. Or something equally illogical.

But before I knew it, I was getting a leg up and there I was, sitting on top of a horse that is the highest scoring horse in all of USEA history and has countless accolades to his name.

I walked around the dressage court and felt a bit sheepish, as I had no idea if I was expected to just walk around or if there was more to it. Truth me told, anything would have been fine with me — what more could I possibly ask for?

Then Buck turned from his lesson and told me to go actually ride, so I took up the world’s longest reins (once again, fear of breaking fancy horse) and trotted off.

So let’s just talk about the well-trained horse. This has been on my mind since reading a clinic report on Sinead and Tik’s Winter Camp, and Reggie is living proof of this concept. I am far from an upper-level rider, but Reggie will make you feel like you’re the best rider in the world.

I played around a little with the trot and canter (and super long reins) and could do nothing but smile like an idiot every time another passing rider said, “Isn’t he just the best?” I was soaking it in and thoroughly enjoying the experience.

Demonstrating how to canter when you're afraid of breaking a fancy horse - aka with the longest reins known to man. Photo by Kelly Dutton.

Demonstrating how to canter when you’re afraid of breaking a fancy horse — AKA with the longest reins known to man. Photo by Kelly Dutton.

Reggie is clearly one of the most loved horses in the barn. It’s a well deserved honor — he’s a perfect gentleman under saddle and on the ground, and it’s easy to see why Buck, the Segals and everyone else love him like a pet.

Once I successfully floated my way home, I took a moment to reflect on the opportunity the day had presented. It was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I felt welcomed and not as out of place as I thought I would be among all of the upper-level riders. I may be a true amateur, but that day I felt as if perhaps the stars were not too far out of reach.

Photo by Kelly Dutton.

Photo by Kelly Dutton.

Many, many thanks are in order to Buck Davidson, super groom Kathleen Blauth-Murray, Carl and Cassie Segal, and everyone else who helped make yesterday special. It was a day I will surely never forget.

Tuesday News & Notes from Cavalor

By on Feb 16, 2016 12:01 am -
Photo by Kelly Dutton. Photo by Kelly Dutton.

I had the privilege of spending some time at Buck Davidson’s Ocala base yesterday, and it was without a doubt a memorable experience. Many riders were having dressage schools under Buck’s watchful eye, and it was a friendly atmosphere that buzzed with the dedication of hard working riders and working students.

It’s natural to be curious about what goes on “behind the scenes” at the big eventing barns, and to be honest it was fairly low key. Busy, but quiet at the same time. But one of the most favored memories I’ll take is the smiling faces and the camaraderie of the entire team.

Events Opening This Week:

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

Events Closing Today:

Rocking Horse Winter III H.T. (FL, A-3),  Full Gallop Farm March I H.T. (SC, A-3),  Sporting Days Farm Horse Trials II (SC, A-3), Twin Rivers Winter H.T. (CA, A-6)

News & Notes:

The Cheshire Races in Pennsylvania just got a even more exciting! Organizers have announced the addition of the Mrs. Miles B. Valentine Memorial Side Saddle Race as an addition to an already bustling card full of both timber and flat races. The Side Saddle race will be held over a 1 1/8 mile track resembling hunt country and featuring natural obstacles. [Cheshire Point to Point]

British Eventing has given approval to use an alternative to frangible pin fences on cross country. The MIM clip may not be a foreign concept to some countries, but it is previously unused in Great Britain and has now been approved for use. The MIM clip gained FEI approval in 2012. [BE Approves Use of MIM Clips]

Do you have a senior horse? These tips from The Horse may be useful to you when it comes to maintaining weight on older horses. There are always countless options when it comes to formulating the right diet for your horse, so here are some helpful hints for senior horses. [Maintaining Weight on Senior Horses]

Tuesday Video:

Because we can’t get enough of this throwback Athens footage, here is William Fox-Pitt’s ride aboard Tamarillo.

Who Jumped It Best? Ocala Winter II Intermediate Edition

By on Feb 15, 2016 3:00 pm -

It’s time to play Who Jumped It Best? Ocala Horse Properties Winter II Intermediate Edition! Our friend, JJ Sillman, was kind enough to share some photos from the Intermediate cross country this weekend, and we picked a few good shots for our reader poll.

Take a look at the photos and vote for which pair you feel presents the best overall picture.

Caroline Martin and Effervescent. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Caroline Martin and Effervescent. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Buck Davidson and Approved Power. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Buck Davidson and Approved Power. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Meghan O'Donoghue and Palm Crescent. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Meghan O’Donoghue and Palm Crescent. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Natalia Neneman and Weisser Riese. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Natalia Neneman and Weisser Riese. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Popular Eventing Prix Invitational Returning to Ocala Next Month

By on Feb 15, 2016 11:00 am -
Lillian Heard and Share Option at the 2015 Eventing Prix Invitational. Photo by Jenni Autry. Lillian Heard and Share Option at the 2015 Eventing Prix Invitational. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Ocala Horse Properties has announced the date of this year’s Eventing Prix Invitational, the third edition of the popular event which is used by many international riders as competition preparation leading up to key spring events.

A total of 36 competitors are slated to compete in this year’s Eventing Prix Invitational at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 8 at Southern Cross Equestrian in Reddick, Florida.

The event is open to the public, and spectators are also welcome to attend the 1.15-1.20 meter warmup class at noon Monday, March 7, where invited riders may compete a maximum of four horses, one of which they will jump in the Tuesday Prix.

Marc Donovan will design the 1.30-meter course, which will feature elaborate jump design, a sponsor tent and plenty of atmosphere to prepare the horses for Red Hills International Horse Trials later in the week. Riders from the U.S., Canada, New Zealand and England will be featured as competitors, and the U.S. and Canada are using the event as an official training competition.

We’re also thrilled to announce that we will be partnering with this event to bring you a simulcast of the live stream right here on EN provided by EQTV, and our own Jenni Autry will be providing live commentary alongside Max Corcoran.

Riders will be competing for prize money in a team style format. Last year’s winning team included Lynn Symansky, Sinead Halpin, Lauren Kieffer and Liz Halliday-Sharp, and Jennie Brannigan won the individual honors aboard Vamor. In addition to team and individual rider honors, Brewster Walker Horse Transportation is also sponsoring a Groom’s Award this year.

The Prix is free to attend. Celebrations Catering will provide food and drink in the ringside VIP tent, and tables are still available for $600. Food will also be available for purchase on the grounds from Humble Pie Pizza, with beer courtesy of Edge Brewing Barcelona.

It’s set to be a thrilling day at beautiful Southern Cross Equestrian, which is owned by Scott Keach and is the home base of several eventers for the winter. Southern Cross is located at 13440 NW Highway 225, Reddick, FL 32686. For more information, please contact Max Corcoran. To reserve a VIP table, contact Denise Goyea.

Thank you to the event’s sponsors: Ocala Horse Properties, Woodmen of the World Insurance, The Dutta Corp, Southern Cross Equestrian, Brewster Walker Horse Transportation and Tryon International Equestrian Center.

Keep it locked right here on EN for much more from the Eventing Prix Invitational, including the entry list and more information on live streaming.

Sunday Videos: Ocala Winter II Action

By on Feb 14, 2016 3:00 pm -

There is a lot of action to catch up on if you weren’t able to watch any of the Ocala Horse Properties Winter II event this weekend. We saw a lot of horses out for their first time or move-ups this weekend and, in turn, plenty of smiling faces and rockin’ rounds.

Thanks to our friend, The Horse Pesterer, we have a lot of videos to show you from the weekend. Keep an eye on his YouTube page for more videos throughout the winter season.

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

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.