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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

Andrew Nicholson and Nereo Take Command of Barbury International

By on Jul 9, 2015 1:00 pm -

Andrew Nicholson has taken the early lead in the CIC3* at Barbury, although his three-time winner, Avebury, has yet to go in the dressage. Andrew and Deborah Sellar’s Nereo scored a 38.3 today for the overnight lead about halfway through the division of 100.

Nereo most recently placed sixth at Badminton and is making his return to Barbury after finishing fifth here in 2013. Naturally, much of the attention surrounds Avebury this weekend, but Andrew’s WEG mount is not to be taken lightly — he poses an honest threat to take home the whole shebang.

In second place after today’s dressage are Great Britain’s Louise Harwood and Louise Skelton’s Whitson, who scored a 39.6 to be one of the two pairs to eke into the 30s so far.

Whitson was sixth at Barbury in 2013 and Louise will be over the moon with the dressage today as this is a personal best at the FEI levels for this horse. For comparison’s sake, Whitson scored a 51 in the dressage last year. Well done!

French rider Mathieu Lemoine and Bart L will take third position after a solid effort landed them a score of 40.7. This pair won the CCI3* at Saumur in May and is visiting Barbury for the first time this weekend.

Also representing Great Britain, Nana Dalton and Abbeylara Prince will take a 43.5 into the show jumping on Saturday. This is also a personal best FEI score for this horse, who completed here at Barbury in 2014.

And rounding out the top five are Ireland’s Jonty Evans and Cooley Rorkes Drift, a 9-year-old Irish gelding who is in the midst of his first full season at this level. This pair scored a 44.8 with their test today.

Tomorrow holds many more heavy hitters in the CIC3*, including Oliver Townend with Armada, Camilla Spiers and Portersize Just a Jiff, Francis Whittington and Easy Target, and many more. Don’t forget, you can watch the live stream of tomorrow’s dressage by clicking here.

Stay tuned for much more from the beautiful Barbury Castle.

Barbury Links: Website, Ride Times, Live Scores

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Andrew Nicholson Chats about Avebury at Barbury

By on Jul 9, 2015 11:00 am -

All eyes are on Andrew Nicholson and Avebury as they contest the CIC3* at Barbury International this weekend against a very strong field. Dressage is wrapping up as we speak, so we’ll have a full update for you this afternoon.

Recently, Andrew spoke candidly about his three-time Barbury winner who is “easy to ride” and who Andrew knows like the back of his hand. It’s always interesting to hear what riders have to say about their long time mounts; they speak quite fondly of their horses and you can tell how proud Andrew is of the 15-year-old gelding.

Andrew and Avebury will ride their dressage tomorrow, and you can catch the full live stream by clicking here. Stay tuned for much more from Barbury!

Barbury Links: Website, Ride Times, Live Scores

 

9 Questions with C4 Riders Doug and Jess Payne

By on Jul 9, 2015 9:00 am -
Doug and Jess Payne. Photos by Sally Spickard and Samantha Clark.

Doug and Jess Payne. Photos by Sally Spickard and Samantha Clark.

When Doug and Jess Payne aren’t busy prepping young horses for sale, they’re competing them in both the event world and the show jumping world. They’re also in the process of building a brand new facility in North Carolina and have clients in training with them regularly.

So when does a busy couple like this have time to step away and enjoy each other’s company? What would they be doing if they weren’t running a successful equine business? We found out in this month’s C4 rider Q&A!

EN: How do you balance your time working together as well as outside of the barn?

Jess: We’re together 24/7, so sometimes it is hard to step away, but we are best friends so it’s kind of easy to work together. (Head groom Michelle Novak) is basically the mediator.  Whoever Michelle sides with, the other person usually ends up agreeing and it solves the problem.

Doug: Basically Michelle is our relationship counselor.

Jess: We don’t really have too many days off. We split so much time between events and hunter/jumper shows, but we do try to take two sequential days off per month and do non horse things. We went to the lake with friends last month. It’s good to get off the farm for a little bit when we can.

EN: How did you meet each other?

Jess: My mother! We used to go bowling on Monday nights with some friends, including some eventers, and my mom is awesome and so much fun so she would come with us. I was on a team with my friends, and my mom went off and joined another team. Next thing I knew, she came back and said ‘I met this really great guy, and I’ve invited him to dinner.’

It wasn’t even that she was setting us up, she just comes from a big family and likes having people around. But then Doug and I started talking and he asked me out on a date—

Doug: I don’t think I actually asked you out on a date!

Jess: Well, we ended up going out and talking and now here we are.

EN: If you could be a professional in any other equine sport besides eventing, what would it be?

Jess: Hunters or jumpers. I came from that world, I didn’t start eventing until I was 18, so I am more used to it.

Doug: Probably jumpers.

EN: What event is on your competition bucket list?

Jess: Can I pick one I’ve already been to? Because I’d love to go back to Blenheim. I went with High Society and I’d love to go on another horse. Either that or Aachen.

Doug: Anything with an international championship feel, so probably Aachen.

EN: If you could take a spin on any horse, past or present, who would it be?

Jess: I would honestly go back on High Society. He was such an amazing cross country horse. But I would also pick Reed Kessler’s Cylana.

Doug: I would pick Valegro or Kent Farrington’s horse, Uceko. They’re two totally different rides, but I would love to do that.

EN: What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?

Jess: Always take a deep breath. It’s something I use for everything in life, not just the horses.

Doug: Don’t do anything well that you don’t want to do for the rest of your life.

EN: What is your career highlight to date?

Jess: When we both finished Kentucky in the top 20 in 2012. I think Doug and I finished 18th and 19th, that was a really neat feeling.

Doug: I don’t know that I’d pick a certain event — for me, (Crown Talisman) is what I am most proud of. He had a lot of issues at first and ended up having some pretty competitive results, and I’m really proud of that.

EN: You both spend a lot of time in both the event world as well as the hunter/jumper world. What are some of the biggest differences you see?

Jess: I actually love that there are no ride times. If you go in with an open mind knowing the ring may be running late, it actually can be quite relaxing. Not to mention, there are times when Doug and I are showing in different rings, and I can put myself last in my ring so I can go and help Doug. We like to help each other.

I can coach all of my clients, and not have to rush back to get a horse ready or anything like that. I love the flexibility, and it’s nice to just be able to hang out and relax.

Doug: It’s a very different mindset. For those who grew up eventing, it seems foreign at first but it begins to make sense as you get more into it. One thing that I appreciate is that in terms of versatility and developing your horse, there is a lot of opportunity.

If I take a horse in the 1.10m class and it doesn’t do as well as I’d like, then I can go right back in at a lower height and work on some other things. It’s nice to have that option.

EN: What are your favorite things about C4 Belts?

Jess: I think I have about five of them, and I bring at least three everywhere I go. I love that I can match them to all of my outfits!

Doug: They are definitely the most versatile and comfortable belts I’ve used.

If Doug and Jess have you hankering for a new belt now, you’re in luck! This month, we’ve partnered with C4 to offer 10% off and FREE shipping on your purchase. Just use the code PayneC4 at checkout to receive your EN exclusive discount. Click the banner below to go shopping!

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Groom Olympics?

By on Jul 8, 2015 5:00 pm -

LGCT grooms FINAL

Posted by Philippe Le Jeune Jr. on Sunday, July 5, 2015

How would you fare in Groom Olympics? Grooms at the Longines Champion Tour in Paris were tested with a speed polo wrapping contest, and we’re marveling at just how quickly these grooms can wrap their polos so that they’re ready to be used.

Demi finale LGCT grooms

Posted by Philippe Le Jeune Jr. on Sunday, July 5, 2015

We tip our caps to all of the grooms who competed in this challenge, and it’s gotten us thinking of other Groom Olympics challenges! Speed Mucking? Quick Braiding? Hoof Packing Champion? The possibilities are endless!

All joking aside, let’s take a moment to thank all of the tirelessly working grooms and working students who help keep their charges in pristine condition day in and day out. Grooms are certainly an integral part of the sport, and it takes a very special person to take on that responsibility.

The horse that matters to you matters to us(r).

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

Grab a Summer Job with These Working Student Listings [Updated 7/8]

By on Jul 8, 2015 1:00 pm -
This could be you! After your barn duties are done, of course. This could be you! After your barn duties are done, of course.

It’s just about that time of year when school lets out for the next few months and you taste that elusive bit of freedom you’ve been craving all year. Not so fast, though! You’ve been eyeing a working student job all spring, and now you actually have the time on your hands to be able to go and grab the bull by the horns.

Naturally, being a working student is not for the faint of heart. Prefer to stay in the A/C surfing the web or watching Netflix? Probably best to spend your summer not working for Buck Davidson or Hawley Bennett. Do you enjoy daily (heck, even hourly) challenges? Are you a quick learner and a hard worker? Do you not flinch at the thought of being covered in sweat, dirt, manure and who-kn0ws-what-else day in and day out? Then these listings are for you.

We’ll be updating this post as listings are added and filled, so keep an eye out for us to repost this. Riders and trainers, please email [email protected] with your listings! We are not carrying over any listings from our spring edition of Working Student Jobs, so if your position was previously listed and is not filled, please do let us know.

And for any of you who do snag one of our listed positions, we’d love to hear from you! We know you won’t have a ton of free time, but if you’re feeling extra motivated to send us some Working Student Diaries, we’d be happy to share them!

Current Working Student Listings

Tracy  Bienemann (MD): Immediate opening for a reliable, motivated person with Advanced/3* eventer Tracey Bienemann on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. This position may be applied for as a Season only or longer term position. Winter is in Aiken for 4-6 weeks. The right candidate will be extremely motivated to learn about ALL aspects of an eventing program (from the upper level horses to just starting greenies), a hard worker, and a good team player. 6-7 days of hard work in exchange for a stall at Worthmore Equestrian Center, lessons 2-5 days a week, coaching at all events, and riding opportunities for the right candidate on well schooled or green horses. Duties will include all daily chores, grooming, tacking, bathing, clipping and show prep, show grooming and travel, and some exercise or lesson rides on additional horses. If you don’t have a horse to bring, you may ride and compete a schoolmaster! Candidate must have own transportation, and living arrangements can be discussed. If you think you have what it takes send your information with references and riding video if available to [email protected]. More information about Tracey can be found on www.tabeventing.com

Brevard Equestrian Center (FL): Brevard Equestrian Center in Grant, FL, has an immediate opening for a working student. Duties include daily care including stall cleaning, feeding, turn in/out, grooming, tacking, riding based on ability. Compensation includes housing, lessons from trainers Lisa Smit and Dara Storm in dressage and jumping at least 4 days a week, mentoring, and education in all aspects of horse care and farm management. You will also have opportunities to ride with top clinicians. You do not need your own horse. Reduced board is offered if you want to bring a horse. Six days per week. Email a resume and video link to [email protected] or call 321-960-2305. Web site iswww.brevardec.com.

Hannah Sue Burnett (VA): HSB Eventing is looking to hire new working students! Bring your horse and enjoy being apart of a great team in Middleburg, VA this summer! Must have a car/drivers license and some experience in eventing is preferred. Contact Hannah Sue for more information.

Bystorm Farm (Olympian Garry Roque/ Shawn Ferguson) (ON): Looking for a working student for summer (or longer) 2015. Stall, lessons, coaching at shows, accommodation provided. Lots of opportunity to ride and attend all the shows in Ontario and USA. Position is for a motivated, goal-oriented, hard working individual looking to further their education in riding and stable management. Preference given to applicants with showing goals. Please inquire to [email protected] or 905.452.2672. Located in Erin, Ontario.

Kyle and Jennifer Carter/Five Ring Eventing (FL): Working student needed for Kyle and Jennifer Carter at Five Ring Stable.  Looking for a long term person that is motivated, responsible and non smoking.  We offer board for one horse, housing, lessons and coaching at shows.  It is a 6 day per week position.  Great group of people to work with and lots of nice horses to ride.  Please email Jen at [email protected].

Class Act Farm/Jennie Jarnstrom (FL): Looking for a full time working student at an active event barn with 30+ horses. You will be mentored by Jennie Jarnstrom, a 3*/4* rider and trainer. Duties include but are not limited to assisting with am/pm feedings, turn in/out, stall cleaning, and other various barn chores. Benefits include daily riding opportunities, hands on experience working with horses, learning medical management skills, and building overall barn management skills. Looking for someone with a willingness to learn and ability to take direction in a positive environment. There may also be opportunities for applicant to travel to shows and gain additional educational experience. Willing to accept applicants to start immediately. Please contact [email protected] and send riding pictures/videos with a summary of your experience.

Courtney Cooper (PA): C Square Farm has a long-term working student position available starting immediately in Nottingham, Pennsylvania. Courtney Cooper runs one of the top eventing sale barns in the country, competes at the upper-levels with her homebred horses and keeps up with a successful breeding operation. Working students will not only receive instruction from an Advanced-level competitor, but will become well-rounded in many aspects of the horse business. Room and housing is provided and could include board for one horse. You do not need your own horse though, opportunities to ride other horses based on your ability may be available. A positive attitude and a great character are required. If an opportunity like this appeals to you please contact Courtney at [email protected] to discuss further details, please also include your resume and riding video.

Durr Eventing (CA): Durr Eventing of Castro Valley, CA, a high performance training and sales program, has an immediate opening for a working student. Program operated by John Michael & Kimmy Durr, both high performance riders and trainers; J.M. is a USEA ICP Level IV instructor. Duties include tacking, untacking, some riding, graining, packing and travel to shows as well as normal farm chores (no daily stall cleaning). Compensation in the form of housing, daily lesson and $100 per week. Ideal candidate has valid drivers license, reliable vehicle, a positive attitude and a desire to learn. Candidate with out their own horse is preferred, but arrangements can be made to bring a personal horse. [Durr Eventing]

Hillary Irwin (NC): We have an immediate position available for a hard working, self motivated, responsible, and fun individual!  We are quite busy here, so an ability to manage time is essential. This is a very quiet barn with between 8-11 horses in daily work. Responsibilities include: grooming/bathing horses, setting jumps and videoing, cleaning stalls to cleaning tack (and everything in between!), helping groom at some competitions, and riding opportunities will be based on skill level. This is a great opportunity for someone who doesn’t own a horse. With the number of horses in work, you will have the chance to experience different mounts. We will provide you with housing and 3-5 lessons per week, and 4-6+ rides per week! Must have drivers license, and be 18+. This is the perfect place for someone who enjoys taking fantastic care of horses, loves being involved in the process of training horses, and wants to be part of a team! Contact [email protected] for more information!

MK Equestrian/Molly Kinnamon (PA): Our barn works mainly out of Kirkwood, PA where we are lucky enough to train our eventing horses out in the Andrews Bridge hunt land. We actively compete in Area II with horses of all ages and levels. We also spend a few months in the winter working down south to give our horses a good healthy start to their seasons. Our working students handle all aspects of horse care and training- to me it’s incredibly important for my riders/students/employees to really truly “know” the horses. The actual program varies for each individual working student depending on if they come with or without a horse and what their personal goals are. Requirements- Good character; honesty and reliability. Please contact me with any questions! We will be starting trials right away and will be looking to have the position filled by August. [email protected]

Olivia Loiacono (CA): OKL Eventing is looking for a hard working and motivated working student. Equestrian experience is a must, eventing experience preferred. Learn about the program at www.okleventing.com and contact Olivia for more information. [email protected]

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

Morningside Eventing (VA): Morningside Eventing is looking for a working student to join the team! Must be able to commit long term, six months minimum, preferably longer. Morningside will provide living, board, and training at a top class facility. Working student tasks include care of competition horses (feeding, turn-out, grooming, tacking up, and riding) 6 days per week. Please contact Connor at [email protected]

Kelly Prather (PA): Kelly Prather Eventing has an opening starting in July for a hard working eager to learn working student in Kennett Square Pa. Must have previous horse experience. Come learn the ins and outs of a top level competition barn.
Contact Kelly via Facebook messager or @ [email protected]

Redbud Farm Equestrian/Betsy Ball/Jessie Shull (MS/FL): We are looking for a working student to start immediately. Redbud Farm is a relatively small operation, but we compete all over the east coast at national and FEI competitions, we winter in Ocala, and we have a breeding program getting off the ground. You will be an integral part of all farm actives. Duties include daily chores, grooming, and riding in exchange for training board for one horse, room and board, lessons, and trailering as well as coaching at competitions. This job will give you valuable hands on experience in every aspect of a career with horses. Previous working students have gone on to positions with other top professionals. For more information see our website (www.redbudequestrian.com) or contact us at [email protected].

Katie Ruppel (FL): Katie Ruppel is looking for a working student to join her eventing program in Ocala, FL. Minimum 6 month commitment for free board for 1 horse, living accommodations on the farm, stipend for groceries, lessons, shipping to events. Mostly sale horses so lots of riding opportunities. Great attitude and work ethic a must. Contact Katie at 269-806-5974 or via Facebook message.

Jane Sleeper (PA): Summer working student position open now for this summer! We are busy: competing, training, schooling xc, Starter HT, show jumping, and combined tests: so much to do in Area 2! Bring your horse and ride a variety of young horses through the upper level. All duties with an individual program set up for you & your horse, and you have the opportunity to ride/compete on our horses. And join us in breaking some 2 & 3 year olds. Each student gets to design a grid and show jumping course. So much to do and learn! We are also interviewing now for the fall/winter session so let’s get going. Get in touch-Email [email protected] 610-857-2514.

Lindsey Traisnel (France): Traisnel Equestrian is looking for a working student to join our team. Living accommodation, lessons, coaching, and meals when we are in the road in exchange for help with typical yard duties 6 days a week and help at competitions. We compete all over France and Europe. Possibility to bring own horse. We also have a lot of experience helping people find horses from Novice level to Olympians. This could be a great opportunity for someone looking for a horse to come compete in France for a while before taking it home. Ability to speak French before you come is not necessary. Possible use of car for responsible drivers. We have helped most of our former working students find paying jobs in the horse industry after working for us. Contact Lindsay Traisnel [email protected]

A Horse of a Different Color: Rubicon

By on Jul 8, 2015 11:00 am -

"A Horse of a Different Color" features horses and ponies that have been successful in the sport of eventing while representing a unique breed. Do you have a horse that you think would be a great feature subject? If so, email [email protected].

Nikki Ayers and Rubicon at Aspen Farms. Photo by Chesna Klimek. Nikki Ayers and Rubicon at Aspen Farms. Photo by Chesna Klimek.

In 2003, Andrée Stow, was a breeder of the rare breed, the “Canadian Horse.” She was looking to breed something a bit more “fancy,” as she put it, from a Canadian Warmblood mare, Elixir II, she also owned.

“Another event rider, Robin Zimmer, had recommended me look at a stallion (Rubignon 961) and I thought he was really nice,” Andree recalled. “I agreed to this breeding, and you could just tell from the get-go that the resultant foal (Rubicon, aka Rubix) was different. He just moved differently from my other foals, so we decided to keep him.”

Rubicon was the product of a Swedish Warmblood/Canadian Warmblood cross, getting his distinctive tobiano pinto coloring from his dam. Foaled in 2004, “Rubix” was earmarked as Andrée’s next lower level event horse.

“I had a traumatic riding accident three years ago, on another horse, and (Rubix) had been my main riding horse for dressage and low level eventing up until then,” Andrée said. “I was laid up for a year, and I scrambled to get my horses into full training. I initially put him in a dressage barn, but he loves to jump!

“After a few months of extra dressage training, I approached Nikki (Ayers) about keeping him going until I was ready to ride again. Those were famous last words,” Andrée chuckled.

“The original plan was for me to keep him going at Novice until Andrée was ready to get back to riding,” Nikki said. “As it turned out, her recovery took a bit longer than expected, and Rubix was getting a bit bored at that level so after discussing it, Andrée gave me her blessing to move him up to Training.”

Nikki Ayers and Rubicon. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Nikki Ayers and Rubicon. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Out of an unfortunate turn of events that brought Rubix into Nikki’s program, there have been many bonuses. It’s been a journey that all involved have been thrilled to be a part of, witnessing the ease with which Nikki and the now 11-year-old gelding have steadily moved up the levels together.

“We never really had a specific plan for what we were going to do,” Nikki said. “It started with getting him solid at Novice, and Andree encouraged me to just keep seeing what he could do.”

Nikki and Rubix began competing in FEI divisions in 2014, finishing second in their first CIC* in British Columbia. Now, three years into their partnership, this pair has successfully moved up to the two-star and Intermediate level, most recently placing second in the CIC2* at Aspen Farms.

“(Nikki) has done such a great job with him,” Andrée said. “I’m riding again now but I haven’t ridden him since my accident. I just told Nikki to see where the story would lead.”

Rubix was a tough horse to get to know. “On one hand he is very laid back but he can also be very emotional,” Nikki said. “If he doesn’t want to do something, he just pokes his nose out and says, ‘I’m not doing this.’ But I knew that if I could just learn to ride him in harmony you never know what we could do! Fortunately, the work we have been putting into our dressage is starting to pay off for us.”

Nikki and Rubix at Aspen Farms. Photo by Chesna Klimek.

Nikki and Rubix at Aspen Farms. Photo by Chesna Klimek.

“Rubix has been blessed with wonderful form over fences, he’s a very pretty jumper. He loves footwork and he really excels at cross country.  Every time I leave the startbox, I feel the safest I have ever felt on a horse. He takes care of me and he has never let me down and he will always try for me.

“I don’t think there was a defining moment for me to know that he would someday be an upper level horse — he just kept answering every question we asked and looked for more. We always knew the talent and skill was there, but I don’t think anyone ever thought he’d go this far.”

Though Nikki and Rubix’s relationship is ever growing and improving, they’ve gotten to the point where they know each other quite well. “We make a great team,’ Nikki said. “For the most part, he knows his job and at this point,  I just need to ride more sensitively to his needs. You have to make it his idea to do something.”

While Nikki and Rubix were named to the Canadian National training team, unfortunately they were not selected to represent Canada at the Pan American Games this month. However, they still plan to continue their dream trip.

“As long as it’s fun for both of them, they’ll continue doing what they’re doing,” Andrée said. “Nikki and I watch videos of their rides together and we see a horse with his ears pricked forward, having a great time. Nikki is a horse person first and a competitor second, and I have full faith that she will know when Rubix has reached his full potential. We’re both very realistic, and we are looking to him to tell us when that will be.”

Indeed, Nikki is grateful for every opportunity this unique and talented horse, along with his supportive owner, has afforded her. “It’s just kind of been a Cinderella story for me,” Nikki said. “I was just riding a fun horse and enjoying the ride and it’s just grown. It’s been quite a journey.”

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: This Video Will Make You Fall in Love with Eventing (Again)

By on Jul 7, 2015 5:00 pm -

This just-released hype video featuring highlights from Arville is enough to make us fall in love with the sport all over again. Featuring chill-inducing footage from all three phases and just the right music to set the tone, this video is the summary of all we love about eventing.

As if we needed any further reason to don our cross country vests and tackle a big cross country course, this video makes us want to hop across the pond and take on some of the beautiful, scenic courses there as well.

Ah well, if you can’t actually travel to Europe to compete, at least you can live vicariously through wonderful videos such as these. Enjoy!

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Solve Your #EventerProblems with SmartPak’s 15% Off Sale

By on Jul 7, 2015 3:00 pm -

SmartPak threw a big ol’ Fourth of July party this weekend, offering 15% off sitewide in honor of Independence Day — and guess what? They decided to go all extra-generous on us and extend the sale through tonight. So, what does that mean? Shopping spree!

Since there are always deals to be found on SmartPak, we decided to go for a little jaunt around their website to pick out some items we can all benefit from. After all, we all have #EventerProblems, so here’s a few items that can help make our lives easier.

Have too many left handed gloves to count? We can solve that with a new pair of summer weight gloves fit for your everyday in the saddle needs. We’re loving these Tredstep Summer Cool Gloves, which are lightweight and sweat wicking to prevent your hands from getting slick when the going gets tough.

Screenshot_2

Hair net problems? We hear you. Trust us, once you try this RWR No Knot Hairnet, you won’t go back to the regular ones you buy at Wal-mart.

Especially if you’re blessed (cursed?) with long hair, this hairnet will be a life saver. Plus, it doesn’t get loose and hang down around your ears after a few uses, so no more accidental ear injuries from those stuck earrings!

Dealing with nasty tan lines this summer? Aren’t we all. Luckily, the options for sun shielding clothing are endless now, and we can now ride in style without risking a bad sunburn and resulting embarrassing tan line.

We particularly like the SmartPak SunShield line, which offers shirts in both long and short sleeve options. Leave your sunscreen at home and stay cool and sunburn free this summer!

Eventers are always looking for ways to increase their efficiency — how else are we supposed to manage training for all three phases and the care that goes along with it? If you need a convenient way to poultice, look no further than STAYONS from Hamilton BioVet. You’ll no longer be searching for extra poultice paper once these are stocked in your tack room!

So there you have it, EN. Take it from us, where there is an #EventerProblem, there is a #SmartPakSolution. Don’t forget to enter the code JULY15 at checkout to receive your 15% off today only!

Go Eventing, and Go SmartPak.

Jen McFall, Kate Chadderton Stamping Tickets to Blenheim

By on Jul 7, 2015 9:30 am -
Jen McFall and High Times. Photo by Sally Spickard. Jen McFall and High Times. Photo by Sally Spickard.

In addition to the exciting announcement from the USEF last night of the fall competition grants, both Jen McFall and Kate Chadderton have declared their intent to travel to the Blenheim CCI3* in September. Hailed as one of the most difficult three-star tracks in Europe, Blenheim will be positively teeming with U.S. riders — and one U.S.-based Aussie!

Jen McFall will be traveling with her upper-level partner, High Times, who missed a second trip to Rolex this year after an ill-timed hematoma kept him sidelined from Kentucky. She’s looking forward to her first trip overseas, though, and plans to make it a trip to remember with “Billy.”

“We’ve always talked about going to Europe, and last year we definitely started talking about where to go,” Jen said. “Blenheim is ideal because it’s a big, galloping track, which suits Billy.”

Additionally, Jen is looking forward to her trip for the opportunity to see some of the well-known studs situated in the English countryside. “It’s going to be a dream if we can set up some trips to visit some studs,” she said. “Those programs are so well run, and what we learn there can only help enrich our (breeding) program here.”

In preparation for the trip in September, Jen will be running the CIC3* at Rebecca Farm later this month, followed by a combined test at Woodside in August. In between, she’ll focus her energy on dressage and show jumping classes to sharpen their skills in those phases.

To aid her trip overseas, Jen and her supporters have begun fundraising for assistance with the cost of travel. On July 31, a fundraising dinner will be hosted by the Votaw family, featuring custom sushi designs, a raffle and silent auction. More information on tickets to this unique event can be found by contacting Jen.

The McFalls will also be hosting an online auction and are accepting donations on the Dragonfire Farm website. We’ll provide a link to the auction once it begins — likely in August.

Kate Chadderton & VS McCuan Civil Liberty. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Kate Chadderton and VS McCuan Civil Liberty. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Kate Chadderton and VS McCuan Civil Liberty, owned by Pat McCuan, Adrienne Wisenberg and Carla Macleod, will also be making their first trip to to compete overseas, representing Australia at Blenheim.

Civil Liberty is an 11-year-old OTTB  who has come up the levels with Kate, most recently finishing 15th in the CCI3* at Bromont last month. The intent was to take the horse overseas last year before an injury sidelined him for the remainder of the 2014 season. Kate and “Libby’s” owners put a lot of thought into the decision of which event to target, and Kate is confident she’s chosen the best one.

“(Blenheim is) well thought out; it’s fair,” Kate said. “I want to test this horse on a different circuit, and this seems to be a place he will thrive. Don’t get me wrong, I love the American events; they’re world class. I also like meat pies, which are available in England, not America.”

Kate and Libby will be focusing on sharpening their show jumping leading up to Blenheim. “Libby is consistent in all three phases, and I know him like the back of my hand,” she said. “He’s sound, fit and ready, so we’ll go to Loch Moy in two weeks.”

Kate will finish her preparations at Five Points before setting off for England, and she’ll also be prepping her other top OTTB mounts, Collection Pass and Buckharo, for the CCI3* at the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International this fall

Kate will also be holding an online auction, information for which will be available soon. Her sponsors have also been highly supportive of her efforts, and she’s looking forward to representing both America and Australia in Europe. “Libby is an American OTTB produced in America by an Australian; I’m proud we’re a combination of the great countries.”

We wish all riders the best of luck in their final preparations for their European trips this fall. Don’t forget to keep it locked right here on EN for the latest updates from the European events. Go Eventing.

USEF Announces Recipients of Fall Competition Grants

By on Jul 6, 2015 11:18 pm -
Lynn Symansky and Donner. Photo by Jenni Autry. Lynn Symansky and Donner. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The latest list of USEF competition grants is chock full of talent, and we’re gearing up for what’s sure to be a thrilling fall season overseas. The USEF has just announced the competition grants for the following events: Aachen CICO3*, Burghley CCI4*, Blenheim CCI3* and Boekelo CCIO3*.

All riders listed submitted applications for the grant process.

The Karen E. Stives Endowment Fund for High Performance Eventing Competition Grants for Aachen, where the U.S. riders will compete as individuals, are as follows:

Phillip Dutton and Thomas Tierney and Simon Roosevelt’s Fernhill Cubalawn, a 2003 Holsteiner gelding

Lauren Kieffer and Team Rebecca, LLC’s Veronica, a 2002 Dutch Warmblood mare

We do not know yet whether or not the U.S. will be sending a team to Aachen to compete in the Nations Cup, but should an invitation be extended, the following riders will receive grants to travel, depending on the number of slots available:

Lynn Symansky and The Donner Syndicate, LLC’s Donner, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred gelding

Marilyn Little and Team Demeter, LLC’s RF Demeter, a 13-year-old Oldenburg mare

Colleen Rutledge and her own Covert Rights, a nine-year-old Thoroughbred Cross gelding

The competition grant recipients for Burghley are:

Land Rover USEF Competition Grant: Lynn Symansky (Middleburg, Va.) and The Donner Syndicate, LLC’s Donner, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred gelding

Jacqueline B. Mars Competition Grant: Colleen Rutledge (Frederick, Md.) and her own Covert Rights, a nine-year-old Thoroughbred Cross gelding

A large contingent of riders has been awarded grants to travel to the CCI3* at Blenheim:

Lauren Kieffer and Team Rebecca, LLC’s Veronica, a 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare. This competition is included in the aforementioned Jacqueline B. Mars Competition Grant, through the USET Foundation.

Will Coleman and The Four Star Eventing Group’s OBOS O’Reilly, a 2003 Irish Sport Horse gelding. Coleman has been awarded a Land Rover USEF Competition Grant.

Matt Brown and the Blossom Creek Foundation’s Super Socks BCF, a 2006 Irish Sport Horse gelding. Brown has been awarded a Jacqueline B. Mars Competition Grant, through the USET Foundation.

Elisa Wallace and David and Jill Hopcroft’s Simply Priceless, a 2001 Thoroughbred gelding. Wallace has been awarded a Land Rover USEF Competition Grant.

Emily Beshear and Deep Purple Eventing’s Shame On The Moon, a 2006 Trakehner/Thoroughbred mare. Beshear has been awarded a Land Rover USEF Competition Grant.

Last, but certainly not least, Land Rover USEF Competition Grants for the Boekelo CCI3* have been awarded to:

Buck Davidson and Sherrie Martin and Carl Segal’s Copper Beach, a 2006 Irish Sport Horse gelding

Matt Brown and the Blossom Creek Foundation’s BCF Belicoso, a 2006 Irish Sport Horse gelding

Marilyn Little and Raylyn Farms, Inc.’s RF Quarterman, a 2008 Oldenburg gelding

 [USEF Announces Fall Competition Grant Recipients]

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: Supporting Ben Hobday

By on Jul 6, 2015 5:00 pm -

The eventing community worldwide has rallied in support of Ben Hobday, who announced last week that he has been diagnosed with cancer. Ben is continuing to undergo testing and has begun chemo treatments, according to his Twitter page, and the outpouring of support has been incredible.

Thanks to YouTube user and #HobdayMyHero fan xRecklessRenditionx, we have a great video highlighting Ben’s career to enjoy, and to remind us that Ben’s cause is one worth fighting for.

Please join us in wishing Ben the best of luck in his treatments — we can’t wait to see him back on a cross country course! #YehBoi #KickingCancersButt

Product Review: Horze Horsehair Grooming Supplies

By on Jul 6, 2015 3:50 pm -
The Horze Natural Hair Body Brush. Photo by Sally Spickard. The Horze Natural Hair Body Brush. Photo by Sally Spickard.

With shedding season gone, it’s that time of year to really focus on polishing our horses’ coats to a show-ring worthy shine. After picking up a copy of World Class Grooming last month, I’ve been slowly improving my grooming routine — which has been made difficult by the fact that my horse lives outside in the mud thanks to a monsoon-like spring.

One thing I decided to try out were horse hair brushes, which I can honestly say I’ve never used before. I was interested to see if I could tell a difference in my horse’s coat (once it’s clean), so I decided to try out Horze’s line of horsehair brushes.

I selected three brushes to take for a test drive: the Natural Hair Large Body Brush, the Horse Hair Dandy Brush and the Soft Horsehair Finishing Brush. I also picked up the Horze Grooming Block to test out its usefulness for removing stubborn mud and other unmentionables.

I’ve always used synthetic brushes on my horses, so it’s safe to say I haven’t branched out a ton. I do still use a brush with synthetic bristles as my hard brush to get that initial layer of crud off, but I’ve had a really nice experience with the Horze Natural Hair brushes.

Now that my horse has finally (more or less) finished shedding for the summer, I’m enjoying the glossy look that comes with good nutrition and a good grooming regimen. Although he lives outside 24/7, I’m still able to achieve that “summer glow” with a little extra elbow grease — especially on the muddy days, which have been frequent this year.

The Natural Hair Large Body Brush is what I have used after a good curry and hard brush session. The Body Brush really does a nice job of getting down to the skin and really bringing out anything that may have been missed by the curry and hard brush.

I notice a definite difference between a body brush with synthetic hairs and one with natural hair — it seems that this brush leaves behind the most “gloss”, which I attribute to the more gentle nature of the horse hairs.

The Horze Natural Hair Dandy Brush. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The Horze Natural Hair Dandy Brush. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The Dandy Brush comes next to whisk away any dislodged dirt and hair from the legs and any other more sensitive areas — once again, I’ve been really pleased with this brush in its ability to pick up dirt and leave behind a clean, shiny coat in its wake.

Another thing I’ve noticed is that the bristles on these brushes tend to stay put pretty easily without much breakage or “shedding” from daily use. I’ve also found that keeping them clean is easy, and they don’t seem to deteriorate with cleanings.

Finish off the dirt with this snazzy Finishing Brush. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Finish off the dirt with this snazzy Finishing Brush. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The Finishing Brush is my favorite for a last minute once over before I head in for my lesson. I prefer to look as polished as possible, even in my every day rides, so at least starting off with out any dirt or dust is important to me.

The Finishing Brush ensures that for me, without needing any coat conditioner or shine serum to make everything look put together.

The nifty Grooming Block. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The nifty Grooming Block. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The Horze Grooming Block is something else different for me. I was pleasantly surprised with this, which I found to be highly useful for removing stubborn mud from around my horse’s fetlocks.

The Grooming Block does break down with use, and it’s advertised to last for about 10-12 groomings, which I would say is about right. I think it’s safe to say I will be replacing mine as soon as it’s time!

Since I’ve started using the Horze Natural Hair brushes, I’ve noticed an improvement in my horse’s coat condition. Naturally, good health has a lot to do with this, but I’ve really tried to be conscious of my grooming regimen, and I think it’s really paying off.

After all, it’s important that our horses feel and look their best, right? I can’t help but imagine that he knows he looks good — and that extra layer of polish gives his rider that much more confidence, too.

You can shop Horze’s line of brushes and other grooming supplies here. The great thing is that they offer great quality at an even better price. You can’t go wrong there!

Meg Kepferle Reaps Rewards of Paying Her Dues

By on Jul 6, 2015 11:00 am -
Meg Kepferle and Caherconree Cooley. Photo courtesy of Brian Callanan. Meg Kepferle and Caherconree Cooley. Photo courtesy of Brian Callanan.

When you’re the head groom and barn manager for a High Performance program, there isn’t much time to make a lot of headway on your personal goals. Super groom Meg Kepferle knows this first hand, having spent the last few years working for Sinead Halpin. Her hard work has not gone unnoticed, however, and now she’s putting all of the pieces together to start building a business of her own — and perhaps a return to competition with a new ride.

Meg first began working for Sinead in 2010, and she quickly began learning the ins and outs of an upper level eventing business. She became the head caretaker for Manoir de Carneville and a valued assistant to Sinead as she traveled the world competing.

Eventually, Meg took up teaching, building a small base of clients who were young or adult amateurs learning the ropes of the sport. “I think it’s important to have that exposure to a high performance program,” Meg explained. “We make it accessible for riders of all levels, and they feel comfortable asking questions. Our students have a clear path for what they want to do, and we give them the tools to achieve their goals.”

It’s a business model that has worked well for both Meg and Sinead, who coaches the upper level riders while competing herself. Meg, who has previously evented through Training level, is a big believer in being able to demonstrate what she is trying to teach, which led her to begin riding more for both Sinead and her husband, Tik.

“I’ve been riding for Sinead and her husband for awhile now,” she said. “I think now is the time to start riding and teaching better. I think it’s better to teach while you’re riding regularly — I feel more confident in my teaching abilities when I can do it myself.”

Meg and Manoir de Carneville. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Meg and Manoir de Carneville. Photo by Sally Spickard.

When asked what her best attribute for being an instructor is, Meg quickly responds with patience. “I’m really good with younger kids and timid adults,” she said. “Which is funny, because I’m otherwise a pretty impatient person. But I compare our program to a farm league. I develop the talent and then I send them on. If I have a kid who rides better than I do, I know I can’t keep teaching them. I think that’s an issue that many people run into, the trouble letting go. I want them to go on and achieve bigger things if that’s what their goal is.”

To that end, Meg has handed off most of her management duties for Sinead to newer employees and is able to focus more of her time on building her own clientele. “Sinead has been very supportive of everything — it was actually her who asked me one day what I was planning to do in the future. It really got me going on what I wanted to do, I really hadn’t thought about it too much.”

While Meg says she doesn’t plan to grow a huge program, she plans to keep growing her lesson program and also try to get a few more competition rides secured — all while sharing barn space with Sinead’s business. It’s a successful model, and proof that the two have forged a professional relationship that will allow the other to grow.

“I’ve been ‘rogue’ for so long, it’s an adjustment,” Meg said with a laugh. “But this is what I’ve always wanted to do. Life just has a way of happening, and I’m so grateful for all of the opportunities I’ve had — I’ve learned so much from watching and being so heavily involved with Tate and the program. It’s difficult to really comprehend until you’ve experienced that, but all of that will be useful now.”

Meg has enrolled to get her ICP certification and plans to eventually get her Level 2 certificate, with plans to continue moving up with experience. Competition experience is something she’ll need to continue to get better as a rider and trainer — and that opportunity has presented itself in the form of a young Irish mare.

Meg and "Tegan", Sinead on Gail Opatuts' High Altitude and Kasey Callanan on the ground while cross country schooling at Windurra. Photo courtesy of Brian Callanan.

Meg and “Tegan”, Sinead on Gail Opatuts’ High Altitude and Kasey Callanan on the ground while cross country schooling at Windurra. Photo courtesy of Brian Callanan.

Caherconree Cooley

In the fall of 2014, Sinead received a call from Richard Sheane, one of the masterminds behind the Cooley name, advising her to snatch up a promising four-year-old mare. Caherconree Cooley is by OBOS Quality out of a Puissance mare and was the Champion Mare of her Future Event Horse class at the Dublin Horse Show, showing early talent for the sport.

“Richard knew Sinead was looking for some young horses, and he told her she needed this one, so she was purchased sight unseen,” Meg said. “Sinead wasn’t sure what she was going to do with her. She was only four and she had some other horses who were farther along in their training that she was focusing on.”

Sinead owned “Tegan” on her own, so was looking for an option to either keep her training progressing or send her to compete as a jumper. “She and I had talked about me becoming more of a rider and focusing on my business. She let her take a lesson on Tegan and I really liked her. She’s definitely the nicest jumping horse I’ve personally sat on.”

The idea occurred to Meg to try to make the mare her own, so she started putting some feelers out and found that Sinead was happily receptive to the idea. “I decided to syndicate her and have sold three out of five shares, all to first time horse owners,” she said. “It’s been really incredible to see the support from people and from Sinead.”

With the syndicate officially formed, Tegan officially became Meg’s ride to bring up the levels. Last weekend, Meg made her return to competition as a rider on a horse of her own for the first time since before she began working for Sinead. It was a moment to remember as she crossed the finish line following a clear Novice cross country.

“You’d think we’d just finished running Burghley — I’ll be honest, I had a tear in my eye,” Meg said. “She was just foot perfect. I’m really lucky. She’s just in a whole new league. We’re both green, and we have a lot of work to do, so it’s just going to be about being patient with her.”

Meg’s goals for the remainder of the year include a lot of mileage at Novice. “Sinead put it well when she said we want to wait until Novice just feels like Novice, until it feels easy. Then we’ll be ready to move up. But she just turned five this year, so we are taking it slow.”

Eventually, Meg would love to be able to do a two-star with Tegan, who she feels is more than up to the task. “That’s my plan at this point,” she said. “If we get there — and that’s several years away still — we’ll reevaluate. But having never even done a one-star, I think a two-star is my big goal for right now.”

If there was ever any proof that hard work and paying your dues can open more doors than you ever thought possible, Meg’s growing business and talented horse is it. With the proper support system in place, there are many opportunities for success for the ambitious.

“Your goals change, and then one day you wake up and wonder what you’re doing with your life,” Meg said. “At this point, I’m just going with it. I’m very lucky, and everything is just very exciting right now.”

To learn more about syndicate shares for Caherconree Cooley, please contact Meg via email. 

Fab Freebie: Buzz Off with a Bucas Zebra Fly Sheet

By on Jul 6, 2015 9:00 am -
Photo via Bucas Blankets. Photo via Bucas Blankets.

It seems that an unusually wet spring has made for a particularly “buzzy” summer, if you know what I mean. It’s definitely fly sheet season, you guys. I’m sure this is a giant news flash to everyone who is reading this!

As is the custom with fly season, we are all looking for the best way to protect our horses from those nasty biters. We recently gave away another Bucas staple, the Buzz Off Fly Sheet, and now we’re returning with another opportunity to win a leading option for fly protection: the Zebra Buzz-Off Fly Sheet.

The zebra material may seem like pure decoration, but it’s actually been shown that the pattern helps ward off flies better than solid color sheets. The material also helps protect against harmful UV rays and is made from one sheet of fabric for extra strength, a great option for the more playful pasture horses!

This week, we’re teaming up with Bucas to give away a Zebra Buzz-Off fly sheet, and we know your horse will just love it and look stylin’ at the same time. You know the drill: simply enter using the RaffleCopter widget below no later than midnight on Friday, and we’ll announce the winner in 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.

Friday Video from World Equestrian Brands: Tips from the Top with William-Fox Pitt

By on Jul 3, 2015 5:00 pm -

Do you currently have a horse who gets spooky and tense in warm-up or other situations? Who better to give some timely advice than William Fox-Pitt himself? In this ‘Tips From the Top’ video from EquestrianPR, William shares some advice on dealing with spooky or tense horses.

William focuses not on force but on giving the horse security and confidence, which can improve their responsiveness and relax them in a tense situation. What other advice would you add?

Chatt Hills Promises an Epic Fourth of July Competitor’s Party

By on Jul 3, 2015 1:00 pm -
The calm before the ... party? The calm before the ... party?

Get your party pants on, people! Chatt Hills’ host site, Bouckaert Farm, is bringing the heat this weekend with a competitor’s party to end all competitor’s parties. As you may know, the property has been used for one of the biggest electronic music festivals in the country, TomorrowWorld, for the past few years, so what better setting to throw the best competitor party of the year?

Chatt Hills will be hosting a Fourth of July laser show and dance party tomorrow in commemoration of Independence Day. All competitors will receive free access, and admission for all others is just $10. For the younger members of the crowd, the show will be family friendly, with the party continuing on later into the evening.

One sponsor of the party is Cavalor in celebration of their first full year manufacturing in the U.S. “We are really pleased to join Chattahoochee Hills Eventing in giving back to the sport,” a Cavalor representative said. “Early July marks the first full year manufacturing our product in North America, and it seems fitting to celebrate that milestone on the Fourth of July and in Georgia. We are very serious about our mission at Cavalor, but we also believe in enjoying the moments of small victories. We look forward to celebrating with you.”

Organizers have been working hard to pull of the party of the year, including course designer Hugh Lochore. “Bouckaert Farm is synonymous with high level equestrianism and the largest music production in America,” he said. “Our July Horse Trials have blended the two for a July 4th spectacular unlike any other in the most magical setting imaginable.”

Michael Pollard has also been heavily involved with planning the party — something that will make anyone who has attended any of his other parties excited — and we know that all of the stops will be pulled out this weekend.

“I am really excited to have the event put on an exciting evening for competitors,” Michael said. “It reminds me of the old North Georgia days! I hope plenty of people will come so I’m not dancing alone … because that’s embarrassing, but likely to happen.”

Chattahoochee Hills Eventing is hosting a killer Fourth of July Laser show and Dance party on Saturday night. Competitors free entrance, but open to all for $10. Going to be something like below after 9, but there will be a children appropriate show from 8-930:)

Posted by Pollard Eventing on Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Don’t let Michael dance alone! Be sure to stop by the competitor’s party tomorrow evening, and don’t forget to send us pictures! Speaking of pictures, the event is also running a promo in partnership with Cavalor. Post your party pictures on Instagram tomorrow using the hashtag #CavalorCooled to be entered in a drawing to win a year’s supply of Cavalor Cooling Wash and Cavalor Muscooler.

Party on, EN! Go Eventing.

Chattahoochee Hills HT Summer Series 2: [Website] [Ride Times]

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By on Jul 2, 2015 5:00 pm -

As I look back on my personal journey with my own OTTB, I can’t help but wonder at the sense of pride that comes from producing a horse yourself. Until this horse, I’ve spent more of my riding “career” on the backs of horses who had at least been started and were jumping courses. This was my first true baby green horse, and I have loved every second of it.

Sure, I’m not a professional, and likely never will be, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting to give my horse the best possible start I can give him. I have the help of some amazing trainers, and our own Kate Samuels has become my “texting coach” in addition, so you definitely need support. It truly takes a village, and I think my baby horse would thank each and every person who has had a hand in his development.

At the end of the day, I know I can look back and say that I am responsible for every mistake, hole, or bad habit. But I can, hopefully, also say that I am at least mostly responsible for his success. And that is truly rewarding.

Now, enough with my sappy story and let’s find you an OTTB of your own to produce!

Photo courtesy of New Vocations.

Photo courtesy of New Vocations.

First up this week is a lovely girl available through New Vocations in Lexington, Ky. Tuesday’s Pal (One Nice Cat – Its Tuesday, by Take Me Out) is a 2011 mare who just raced one time last October at Belmont Park. She’s a “big-bodied” 16 hands and does have a granuloma on her left eye but does not have any special needs.

Tuesday’s Pal is a quick learner with a great attitude and has already been started free jumping. Check her out on New Vocations here.

Photo via Akindale Thoroughbred Rescue.

Photo via Akindale Thoroughbred Rescue.

We’re featuring a listing from an organization we haven’t had on here yet: Akindale Thoroughbred Rescue in New York. This commendable organization’s goal is to rescue Thoroughbreds from auctions such as New Holland in order to give them a new chance at a fresh start.

Oklahoma Ace (Malibu Moon – Miss Moonlight, by Broad Brush) is a 2011 gelding standing 16+ hands. This handsome guy also raced just one time at Saratoga last summer. He is currently entered in the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover this fall and will happily make someone a great project! Check out more information about Oklahoma Ace here.

Mighty Whirl

Photo used with permission from CANTER Texas.

Third this week is Mighty Whirl, a 2012 colt standing 16-16.1 hands available through CANTER Texas. Mighty Whirl (Ish Ar – Nanie’s Whirl, by Pancho Villa) raced 8 times, earning nearly $8,000. He last raced in May of 2015 and does have chips in his left knee and right fetlock that may need attention from his new owner. He is, however, said to be sound at the moment.

Mighty Whirl is said to be friendly and well-mannered and just needs someone to take a chance on him for his second career. You can learn more about him here.

Would You Try This Eventing Simulator?

By on Jul 2, 2015 3:00 pm -

This has to be one of the coolest things we’ve seen in awhile. If you’ve ever played those Equestriad-type computer games, you’ll be just as excited about this.

Racewood Equestrian Simulators has designed an eventing simulator, complete with the option to perform upper-level dressage tests, jump around a technical cross country course, and try to keep it all together in the show jumping — all without ever setting foot on a real horse.

Racewood has produced several different simulators for everything from racing to polo, so it seems natural that the eventing simulator was on the way. Think everything will be perfect and you’ll easily finish on your dressage score every time? Think again. The horse is able to refuse, so best to keep that leg on and eye up, even on the mechanical horse.

Different sensors are placed on various parts of the “horse’s body,” allowing the rider to give signals and ask for things such as a flying change or a longer stride. It seems that this simulator is about as close as you can get to the real thing without leaving your home.

So, what do you think? Would you give this simulator a try? Or do you prefer to test your skills out on the real thing any day? Weigh in with a comment below.

Icabad Crane Prepares for One-Star Debut with Phillip Dutton

By on Jul 2, 2015 1:00 pm -
Phillip Dutton and Icabad Crane schooling at True Prospect Farm this week. Photo by Maggie Kimmitt. Phillip Dutton and Icabad Crane schooling at True Prospect Farm this week. Photo by Maggie Kimmitt.

Graham and Anita Motion’s Icabad Crane has been easily progressing through the levels with Phillip Dutton since beginning his eventing career last year, and he’s now slated to make his one-star debut at Plantation Field International Horse Trials this fall.

We’ve followed the 10-year-old Thoroughbred gelding’s progress closely, and behind-the-scenes videos from Phillip have given us an insider’s look at the training process and the temperament of the Preakness and Belmont stakes runner and America’s Most Wanted Thoroughbred.

In this newest training video, Phillip focuses on Icabad Crane’s flatwork, working on developing expression and collection in his gaits. We’ll keep bringing you more updates from Icabad Crane’s training as he prepares for his first one-star at Plantation Field in September.

Go Icabad!

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Product: Are You Ready for Rebecca?

By on Jul 1, 2015 5:00 pm -

The Event at Rebecca Farm is just around the corner and, as if the event could get any more action packed, the addition of a CCI3* division this year is sure to bring some heavy hitters to beautiful Montana.

We’re pleased to say that EN (including Chinch) will be on the ground this year at Rebecca, and we can’t wait! We dug through the archives to find some great video coverage from the event last year:

And don’t miss this rider’s eye view from Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato from last year’s CIC3*:

Rebecca Farm will run from July 23-26, and we look forward to seeing you there! Go Eventing.

Rebecca Farm: [Website] [Entries]

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5th Annual EN Blogger Contest: And the Winner Is …

By on Jul 1, 2015 11:00 am -

It’s been a hard fought battle, but in the end only one can come out on top. We’ve once again been privileged to have a multitude of quality entries to sift through in our 5th Annual EN Blogger Contest, and we’ve put our finalists through some rigorous test to get a feel for their style and talent.

We also asked you to vote on who you thought should be the winner of this year’s contest — while the votes were not the sole determining factor in our decision, they certainly played a hand.

So, without further ado, we are incredibly thrilled and proud to announce that the winner of this year’s EN Blogger Contest is…

David taylor 2

David Taylor!

David hails from Maryland, where he’s currently the head tractor driver and an avid event rider who owns three OTTBs. He’s been a big EN fan from the get-go and has really put his best foot forward in our blogger contest. I mean, who dresses in a women’s tank top just to get noticed? David does, ya’ll.

David has written for Bloggers Row, our page for our readers to share their own blogs, in the past, so his byline may be familiar to you. We’re pleased that he will be joining the EN team (who are we kidding, he’ll be put to work doing Chinch’s bidding) and adding his humor and knowledge to our staff.

Thank you once again to each and every one of our participants this year, as well as to our readers for their continued support. We’re already looking forward to next year’s contest!

Tuesday Videos from SpectraVET: Chris Bartle on Rider Position

By on Jun 30, 2015 1:00 pm -

German team coach Chris Bartle taught an ICP clinic in California earlier this year, and we now have a sneak peek of his discussion on position with the riders thanks to our friends at Eventing Training Online. Providing a fresh perspective for those in attendance, Chris had many useful pieces of advice and gems to take away, as you’ll see in the videos. You can access the full footage at this link.

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National Hunt Champion Kauto Star Euthanized After Pasture Accident

By on Jun 30, 2015 10:08 am -
The great Kauto Star. Photo via KT/Creative Commons. The great Kauto Star. Photo via KT/Creative Commons.

Kauto Star, the National Hunt champion that was trying his hand at a new career in dressage with event rider Laura Collett, has been euthanized after fracturing his neck and pelvis in a pasture accident last week.

The 15-year-old French-bred Thoroughbred gelding trained by Paul Nicholls and owned by Clive Smith, won the prestigious Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2007 and 2009. He also took home a record five wins in the King George VI Chase and was considered one of the most successful steeplechasing horses of his time.

Kauto Star retired in 2012 after winning 23 of 41 starts, having become the winningest National Hunt horse in the sport’s history, earning £2,375,883 during a career that spanned nearly nine years. Clive Smith made the decision to send Kauto Star to Laura Collet’s yard for assessment under the eyes of British coach Yogi Breisner for a career in dressage.

Just a few short months later, Kauto Star was putting on a demonstration at Olympia Horse of the Year Show in London to show his progress.

He will be greatly missed by fans all over the world who have followed his career and retirement from day one.

Rest in peace, Kauto Star.

[UPDATE]: Laura Collett has penned a tribute to Kauto Star, which you can read over on Horse & Hound.