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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

5 Ground Pole Exercises to Add to Your Winter Routine

By on Nov 12, 2015 11:00 am -
Dom walks out the distance for placement poles to help a rushing horse slow the canter. Photo by Rachael Walker. Dom walks out the distance for placement poles to help a rushing horse slow the canter. Photo by Rachael Walker.

With the official start to the off-season, it’s time to start thinking outside the box when it comes to your winter training routine. For those of us not fortunate to winter somewhere warmer, this involves a lot of time spent in the indoor and, therefore, a big potential for boredom.

Horses thrive on routine, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend your entire winter doing endless three-loop serpentines and 20 meter circles! We took the liberty of digging up some creative exercises that will throw some variety into the mix and keep your horse in top shape to come out swinging next season.

Evention TV is always a great resource for training tips, and we found this great episode featuring three cavaletti exercises that are easy to set up. Remember, ground pole and cavaletti work is a great way to exercise without putting a lot of stress on your horse’s body. It’s a win win!

Kate gave me an entire book full of ground pole exercises from Ingrid Klimke to borrow, and I seriously haven’t been able to put it down. This woman is a master of her craft, so there is a lot to learn from watching and reading her material. Here’s a great example of some cavaletti work — and the reasoning behind it.

And yet another masterful rider to learn from, Karen O’Connor. One important thing to keep in mind with your ground pole work is the improvement in your horse’s self-carriage, which is a very important part of the dressage training scale.

You can really get down to the basics with your cavaletti work without getting bored out of your mind. Trust me, I’ve thought this through. This video from the 2006 USDF National Symposium also adds some fuel to the cavaletti fire.

And finally, you can’t have groundpole videos without a visit back to one of the most creative uses of those pesky things on the ground. If anyone cares to recreate this, be sure to send it to us!

Post by Kelley Shetter-Ruiz.

Have anything to add to the list? Add your suggestion in the comments below!

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Australian International Flyover

By on Nov 11, 2015 5:00 pm -

The final CCI4* of the year is approaching next weekend all the way down south in Adelaide. The 35-strong field is preparing to take on a challenging test, but one of the coolest things about this event is the setting in which it’s held.

The Australian International is held right smack in the middle of the city, in the Adelaide city parklands. So you get to gallop through public parks and have a view of skyscrapers in the immediate distance — if that isn’t unique, I don’t know what is.

We’ll be covering the #AUS3DE from a distance this year, although I think Chinch will be sad when we break the news that he doesn’t to hop on a plane down under this year. In the meantime, enjoy this awesome drone flyover from the Adelaide city center — warning: you may want to turn your volume off or down for this as the drone makes quite a bit of noise.

#AUS3DE: [Website] [Entries]

 

A Year to Remember: Prelim to PRO 2015 Riders Reflect on Experience

By on Nov 11, 2015 3:00 pm -
Caroline Martin and Effervescent. Photo by Jenni Autry. Caroline Martin and Effervescent. Photo by Jenni Autry.

It was a year to remember for the talented young riders who were selected to participate in the 2015 Prelim to PRO Program. Presented by Triple Crown Nutrition, these riders had the opportunity to learn from experienced mentors and experience a team environment culminating in the CIC1* at Plantation Field.

Participants Jordan Olijslager, Lee Lee Jones, Grace Fulton, Mikaela Kantorowski and Caroline Martin took a few minutes to share a blog about their experiences this year, and it’s an exciting look into the future of the sport.

“The biggest thing I took away from being apart of Prelim to PRO is how to be a team member,” Caroline Martin blogged. “The series really brought the participants together in a friendly and educational atmosphere. Prelim to PRO is the only series I have participated in that tries to shape the next generation of young riders. It has so many aspects to the program that in future years I believe it will be the destination series for all young riders in North America.”

“One of my many favorite seminars PRO provided was the media seminar, which was given by Ann Haller,” Grace Fulton added. “I am 20 years old and in college and not only did the media seminar provide tips for navigating the horse world media but overall knowledge in general. There are certain things I would not have thought about such as the “3 Sentence Answer” and how not to give an interview. As she talked to us I could definitely count the times I have said my rides were “amazing” or just gushed like a young teenager when I am in fact 20 and want people to take professional notice of how I hold myself.”

Looking ahead to the coming seasons, these riders now have many more tools in their arsenal with which to prepare for future upper level careers. We’re excited that PRO and Triple Crown Nutrition have partnered on such a great opportunity for the next generation and we look forward to seeing many more successes coming from the Prelim to PRO program in the future.

[Young Riders Reflect on Prelim to PRO 2015 Program]

A Salute to Veterans, War Horses and the Roots of Eventing

By on Nov 11, 2015 1:00 pm -
Illustration by Lindsey Kahn. Illustration by Lindsey Kahn.

Today is a special day for all those who have served in the armed forces, striving to protect the things that are most sacred to this country. On a day such as this, it’s important to take a moment to thank the veterans among us, both two- and four-legged.

Eventing has its roots firmly planted in the cavalry, with its original origin being to test the fitness and ability of cavalry officers and their mounts. All three phases were designed to test a different area of suitability, from quietness during parades (dressage) to stamina across long distances and difficult terrain (cross country) and, finally, the continued soundness after a grueling competition (stadium jumping).

Oscar Engelhardt, a cavalry officer, at the Trakehnen stud in 1936. Photo courtesy of Engelhardt Family Archives.

Oscar Engelhardt, a cavalry officer, at the Trakehnen stud in 1936. Photo courtesy of Engelhardt Family Archives.

Originally, the Olympic teams for eventing were provided by the military, who at the time had 14 regiments of cavalry. From there, the sport progressed to the format we see today, but still with a nod to the original intent of each test.

In turn, horses have had a vital role in the military for thousands of years. While we have seen the use of horses phased out since World War I, a few cavalry units still exist and, of course, we still see horses in use as mounted patrols or supply carriers around the world.

So today we salute each and every veteran out there. Thank you for all of your service and sacrifice, a gesture that we will never forget.

Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: Evention’s Event Horse Feeding Tips

By on Nov 10, 2015 5:00 pm -

Have you ever wondered what type of feeding program works best for event horses? Naturally, each and every horse is a bit different, but many similarities can be found based on what job a horse performs.

EventionTV has just released a new episode containing feeding program tips for your event horse. Dom and Jimmie traveled to Kentucky to visit with Dr. Joe Pagan of Kentucky Equine Research.

In this video, you’ll learn a lot about what an event horse requires in its average diet and what to keep in mind when designing your feeding program.

Why SpectraVET?

Reliable. Effective. Affordable.

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

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

Thursday Video from Zoetis: Tik Maynard’s Thoroughbred Makeover Freestyle

By on Nov 5, 2015 5:00 pm -

One of the many divisions at last month’s TCA Thoroughbred Makeover and Symposium was the freestyle, and many ex-racehorses showed off their paces in an effort to win the hearts of judges and spectators alike.

Eventer Tik Maynard, who is also known for his natural horsemanship training, took home the top honors with Mr. Pleasantree (renamed Remarkable 54 in his new career). Check it out!

We know everyone is eager to see video from this year’s TCA Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium and we promise…

Posted by Retired Racehorse Project on Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Pretty neat, right? I wish I could teach my horse that going bridleless and standing on his back were acceptable things. Perhaps I’ve found a new winter project for him! Here’s some more footage of Tik and Remarkable 54 working together at liberty:

Tik also events Remarkable 54, getting some Beginner Novice events under his belt this year and also competing him in the Young Event Horse Championships class at Surefire in September.

We’re eagerly anticipating more videos and highlights from this year’s Thoroughbred Makeover, and it looks like the Retired Racehorse Project is hard at work putting together some more material for us to see the action.

You can also check out some more eventing competition from these ex-racehorses on RNS Video here.

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By on Nov 5, 2015 3:00 pm -

It’s almost the holiday shopping season! Or, if you’re super OCD or particularly excited for the holidays perhaps you’ve already started shopping.

Either way, I know a fancy new OTTB is on many peoples’ lists. And why not? It’s a good time of year to be horse shopping as the tracks close down for the year and many horses are in need of new homes.

Here are our featured listings for the week — go ahead and check that off your list!

Photo used with permission from CANTER Illinois.

Photo used with permission from CANTER Illinois.

First this week is a fresh listing from CANTER Illinois, Won Great Pass (Pass Rush – Distinctive Gold, by Touch Gold). This is a 2012 gelding standing 16.2 hands tall with just six starts on his card. This guy is advertised to be a big love and in need of a new job as he’s a bit bored with life at the track.

Won Great Pass on CANTER Illinois

Photo via the Retired Racehorse Project.

Photo via the Retired Racehorse Project.

While we’re on a chestnut kick, check out Andy who is currently listed with the Retired Racehorse Project. Fun fact, right now adopted horses through the RRP are eligible to receive a $20 gift certificate and a new halter and lead from Shires Equestrian!

Andromeda’s Moon (Andy) is a 2009 gelding by Andromeda’s Hero out of Locust Moon. This guy is a war horse who raced 27 times and earned over $50,000. He’s been off the track since August of this year and has several rides under his belt already.

Andy on the Retired Racehorse Project

Photo via New Vocations.

Photo via New Vocations.

We also had to give this girl a shout-out. Valatie Gal (Utopia (JPN) – Appetizer, by Tomorrows Cat) is a 16 hand 2012 mare who raced four times before retiring. She’s said to be a one-person type of girl who is athletic and suitable for any discipline. She is looking for her person to help her reach new heights in her new career — could it be you?

Valatie Gal on New Vocations

Developing Young Horses Into Champions

By on Nov 5, 2015 1:00 pm -
Doug Payne and Lysander. Photo by Sally Spickard. Doug Payne and Lysander. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Doug Payne’s book, The Riding Horse Repair Manual, has been well-received for its advice on training and developing horses.

Doug just posted this video chronicling his work with Lysander, a horse we talent spotted awhile back who just completed the CCI2* at Fair Hill last month.

This is a great look at the growing up of “Leo” who is owned by Doug and Kristin Michaloski. There really is something to be said about the development of a horse from the early stages of training through, potentially, an upper level career.

Many of the tips and tools that Doug talks about in his video are available in his book, which can be seen and purchased through this link.

Seeing horses like this progress is always encouraging for those of us who are attempting to “make” our own partner. After all, it’s all about the journey at the end of the day, right?

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Now This is a Stallion Showcase

By on Nov 4, 2015 3:00 pm -

Trakehner Hengstmarkt GalaI'm glad thousands of people are enjoying my little video! Thank you for all the friend requests, please follow me on my Hancock Trakehner Stallion Facebook page!

Posted by Marilyn Handschiegel Black on Sunday, October 18, 2015

Ok, now I’m not trying to say that stallion tests and showcases are not impressive as it is, but this one takes it to a whole new level. I stumbled upon this video last night and couldn’t help but watch more than once.

While the jumps may not be the largest on this little “man-made” (literally) course, this particular spectacle of the Trakehner Hengstmarkt Gala is a sight to behold nonetheless.

Take a look and tell us if you think your horse would go around a course like this one? Do we feel a new EN challenge coming on?

On Having a ‘Type’

By on Nov 4, 2015 1:43 pm -
William Fox-Pitt gives Bay My Hero a pat on the Rolex cross country course. Photo by Rare Air Photography. William Fox-Pitt gives Bay My Hero a pat on the Rolex cross country course. Photo by Rare Air Photography.

A recent conversation with my trainer got me thinking: what does it mean to have a “type”?

I used to think that being able to (and enjoying) riding “hot” horses made you a credible rider. So I tried to ride those hot horses and ended up making them hotter by grabbing their face and pinching my knees. In turn, my confidence plummeted and I found myself too timid to jump a 2-foot fence.

So then I went in the opposite direction, gravitating towards plucky school horse types that you had to kick and prod to get any sort of forward momentum. I believed that this was all I was capable of riding, and again I failed to make progress with my riding.

When it came time for me to horse shop last year, I asked myself some honest questions. What do I want out of this horse? What personality do I want it to have? What are my expectations? Realistically, what type of ride do I do my best with?

I got lucky with my horse, who was purchased sight unseen. What I had in my barn was a sane, willing albeit slightly opinionated, forward thinking but not hot, strong but not rip-your-arms-out-of-their-sockets, brave young horse who may not end up being the scopiest thing in the world but will suit me just fine for my goals in the near future.

It led me to think of a rider’s type, and how adapting your riding to become a better partner for your horse can be the most beneficial choice to make.

I had a conversation with a co-worker awhile back about William Fox-Pitt’s horses. How they all seem to have similar ways of going and personalities (from sheer outside observation). My colleague brought up the point that William has the luxury of choosing the horses he wants — and while this is true, he still knows himself and his riding to know what type of horse he can be most successful with.

To address the other side of this conversation, there are absolutely situations in which riders will “take what they can get,” so to speak — and multiple success stories coming from this approach. Not all riders have the luxury of choice, that I completely understand.

But another helpful point my trainer brought up was the ability and willingness to adapt to your horse in order to create a better and safer partnership. Yes, you may have struck a bargain on a horse that others don’t want or you may have slim choices of quality horses — but you adapt yourself and your ability to be able to get to a safe point with this horse.

Having a type is something to keep in mind. Just because Buck Davidson can pilot a broomstick around a three-star course doesn’t mean you have to as well. Just because watching a “quiet” horse mosey around cross country safely and confidently isn’t as “thrilling” as watching a cross country machine hot-head of a horse blaze around doesn’t mean the former is less credible.

Honing your ability to adapt and evolve, along with knowing yourself and what limits and boundaries you have when it comes to your horse, can only help you become the best rider you can be. Whether that means you end up representing your country in the Olympics or you successfully navigate a Beginner Novice course — comparing yourself to what others’ types are will only be a source of confusion.

Stick to what you know about yourself and you might find that your goals and dreams quickly become a reality.

William Fox-Pitt Remains in Hospital, Continues Progress

By on Nov 4, 2015 10:44 am -
William Fox-Pitt and Bay My Hero at Rolex 2015. Photo by Rare Air Photography. William Fox-Pitt and Bay My Hero at Rolex 2015. Photo by Rare Air Photography.

British Eventing has just released the latest update on William Fox-Pitt’s condition fall his fall and subsequent head injury at Le Lion d’Angers last month:

William continues to make steady progress, and his recovery is going to take time. He remains in hospital in France.

Once again the family are hugely grateful to the team who are looking after him, and also to everyone who has sent messages of support.

The most recent update prior to this was that William had been moved out of the intensive care unit, and it appears now that he continues to make strides in his recovery.

We’ll keep an eye out for more updates from William’s family and British Eventing. In the meantime, please continue to send your positive thoughts to William in this difficult time.

[William Fox-Pitt Moved Out of Intensive Care Unit]

[William Fox-Pitt Conscious and Communicating with Family]

[William Fox-Pitt Suffers Head Injury after Fall at Le Lion d’Angers]

Share Your #NoStirrupNovember Pain and Win with Total Saddle Fit

By on Nov 4, 2015 9:00 am -
And there they'll stay? Maybe. Photo via Amber Roberts Graham on Facebook. And there they'll stay? Maybe. Photo via Amber Roberts Graham on Facebook.

Well, I can’t say I’m necessarily excited that it’s No Stirrup November. I mean, I look forward to having new opportunities to improve myself, but there just isn’t a whole lot that’s fun about this month.

Each year, hundreds of dedicated equestrians tie their stirrups up or hide them in inaccessible places in an attempt to better their leg and impress their coach (let’s face it, that’s part of it!).

Between the screaming leg muscles and the fact that you feel as if you won’t be able to stand up straight for the rest of your life, it’s a good solid month of various degrees of torture. But it’s all worth it right?

In addition to having a bomb lower leg at the end of this month, we’re making No Stirrup November even more worth your while thanks to Total Saddle Fit.

We’re giving away a beautiful pair of calfskin stirrup leathers from Total Saddle Fit to the EN reader who most creatively illustrates their No Stirrup November pain. Here’s the full scoop:

How to enter: Email us at [email protected] or tag us on Instagram using #TSFNoStirrupNovember and show us exactly what lengths you’re going to in order to have a successful No Stirrup November. You can use a photo or a short video to show us your dedication.

When are entries due?: We’ve extended the entry deadline! Entries will now close on Monday, November 16 at 5 p.m. EST.

Who decides the winner?: We’ll post the top entries right here on EN and put them to a vote to decide the winner!

So let’s see those hidden stirrups and other torture devices, EN! We can all commiserate together.

Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: Lessons in Perseverence at Galway Downs

By on Nov 3, 2015 4:00 pm -

We received this adorable and inspirational video from Beth Obermeyer, whose daughter Anneke and her horse Wodie rode in the Junior Training division at Galway Downs this past weekend.

Beth provided some background information for this video:

Anneke, 14 years old, moved up to Training three weeks ago at Las Cruces Horse Trials. She was doing fabulously until Wodie, a 9-year-old Appendix gelding and her partner for over two years, dead stopped at a jump into the water.

Anneke fell off — her first fall off of Wodie. She landed square on concrete and a log, and has had a lot of lower back pain. We weren’t sure she would even make it to her first time at Galway … but she decided she was coming!

Her dressage test at Galway was less than great because Wodie was fascinated by the horses exercising on the track.

Then their stadium round was kind of a mess when Wodie stopped at a random jump … and knocked two rails. Anneke was feeling very defeated and like a fish out of water with all of the amazing horses and riders around her. She was fighting intense fear about falling off on cross country again and wondering if moving up to Training had been a mistake.

She spent most of her day off on Saturday struggling with whether she wanted to ride on Sunday. But standing on the sidelines and watching the strength of the top level riders and horses inspired her. She decided to do her best on Sunday, taking her time and not worrying about time faults. She just wanted to prove to herself and Wodie that they could complete a Training round. They did it.

Her smile at the finish line (and over the last two jumps) has never been so big. She has learned a valuable lesson in perseverance, believing in her horse and finishing the race — even if it means last place!

Many thanks to Beth and Anneke for sharing their story, and congratulationst to Anneke on her first Training level completion!

Why SpectraVET?

Reliable. Effective. Affordable.

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

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

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: Galway Downs GoPro Style

By on Nov 2, 2015 3:30 pm -

Vanessa Hughes of Lady Photographic set some of her GoPro cameras out around the cross country at Galway Downs this weekend and got some really cool angles of the action. There’s so much you can do with a handy little camera, and this angle is particularly cool as it’s a different perspective of cross country jumping.

Here’s another angle of Jessica Phoenix and Abbey GS:

Pretty neat, right? Makes me miss California all over again! If you have any cool videos from the event this weekend, be sure to send them to us at [email protected].

Get Your Rolex Tickets! On Sale Today

By on Nov 2, 2015 11:00 am -
Michael Jung and fischerRocana FST at Rolex. Photo by Rare Air Photography. Michael Jung and fischerRocana FST at Rolex. Photo by Rare Air Photography.

It’s like Christmas! It’s that day of the year, the day when the best weekend all year seems to be just a bit closer. Tickets for the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, held April 28-May 1 next year, are officially on sale! Granted, we still have the entire winter to get through … but we can just try to forget about that for now, because Rolex tickets are on sale today!

Even though it may not be for several months yet (5, if you’re counting), Rolex tickets make holiday, birthday or just because gifts. Or, if you’re like me, it appeals to the OCD planner inside who likes to have all of her ducks in a row months before things happen. Ask me if I’ve booked my hotel yet.

Ticket packages are available for both individuals and groups as well as single and multi-day options. Early bird pricing will be available from today through December 16, so get them now before the prices go up!

Screenshot_12

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And don’t forget, we’ll be bringing back our annual Insanity in the Middle Tailgate Party! We’re working on the details of what’s going to be the ultimate Rolex party for 2016, and you can also get your own tailgating package here.

So go ahead and break open those piggy banks, EN. We’ll see you in Kentucky!

[Rolex Ticketing]

Another Dutton Master Class: Fernhill Fugitive Wins Galway Downs CCI3*

By on Nov 1, 2015 6:45 pm -
Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

Phillip Dutton said in yesterday’s press conference that he was confident in Tom Tierney and Annie Jones’ Fernhill Fugitive’s abilities this weekend, and that confidence didn’t waver as the two jumped a double clear round to hold onto their lead in the CCI3* at Galway Downs for the big win.

Phillip held onto his lead from the outset of competition, taking charge in the dressage and gritting his teeth for one of just three double clear rides yesterday and finally giving us all a course in show jumping this afternoon.

Maggie wrote in her By the Numbers for this division that “Jack” tends to pull no more than one rail in show jumping — though doing so today would have cost him the win. This was EN’s Dark Horse pick for the weekend, and on a weekend that clearly defined the best from the rest it was a good one to step up to the plate.

“I couldn’t be any more proud of Jack,” Phillip said. “He’s just had a great year and every event he seems to get better and better. I’m so excited for him and for Annie Jones and Tom Tierney who have been very patient with me and him.”

Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

One prediction we did correctly make was that of Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect for second place. Allie and “Sounder” really had a heck of a weekend, having made the trek all the way from the East Coast following Fair Hill. Allie’s had a big smile on her face all weekend, and her hard work at building a partnership with Sounder paid off in spades today.

In second place overnight, Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett pulled one rail at the wine bottle jump (still empty, sadly) to drop down into third place overall. While we missed out on our win prediction, Lauren’s final score of 46.7 was on par with our numbers.

The course, for the most part, rode fairly well, with nine double clear rounds of 16 starters. The lighting was a bit tricky all day, with shadows being cast in various parts of the arena depending on the hour, but Marc’s course presented a fair challenge of accuracy and a measure of how much gas was left in the tank.

Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook's Scarlett. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

While the top five remained virtually unchanged from yesterday, I owe Lisa Marie Fergusson a big shout-out for an ace of a weekend with Honor Me. She’s taken her time bringing this big guy along, but her hard work shows as he successfully completed his first CCI3* in seventh place, steadily making her way up the board from 13th following dressage. Lisa is another who took a long road trip to get here from the East Coast, and she’ll be celebrating the whole way home I’m sure.

On a last note, Bella Mowbray posted on her Facebook that last night Star Vision’s knee began swelling. Upon further examination, a tiny puncture was found that unfortunately went all the way to the joint. He underwent surgery to flush the joint capsule last night at San Luis Rey Equine Hospital and now begins the road to recovery. We wish “Sheppy” the best of luck with his recovery!

It’s been such a great weekend in Temecula. I can’t thank everyone enough for their hard work and dedication that shows in the smiles on each and every competitor and spectator’s face. Thank you to Robert Kellerhouse for organizing this event, to Ann Haller for always running a great press tent and to the many other officials and volunteers who always make my life easy. Also, thanks once again to Vanessa Hughes of Lady Photographic for providing photos as I had a plane to catch with extremely poor timing!

Until next time, California! (Do I really have to leave?)

Screenshot_8

Tamie Smith and Chatwin Lead Wire to Wire in Galway Downs CCI2*

By on Nov 1, 2015 6:00 pm -
Tamie Smith and Chatwin. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic. Tamie Smith and Chatwin. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

Tamie Smith is having herself a heck of a weekend — a year, at that — and she closed out her day in the CCI2* at Galway Downs with a handy victory aboard The Chatwin Group’s Chatwin. This has been a new ride for Tamie this summer and fall while usual rider Frankie Thieriot was on maternity leave, and she closed her partnership out with a bang today.

Marc Donovan’s course was once again tricky in the CCI2* as it was in the CCI1*, although just about half of the field jumped double clear. Tamie did not have a rail in hand for her round after Marilyn Little jumped double clear as well aboard RF Overdressed.

Tamie Smith and Chatwin. Photo by Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

Tamie Smith and Chatwin. Photo by Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

She needed no cushion, though, as she and Chatwin jumped a beautiful round and left all of the rails in tact to finish the weekend on their dressage score of 41.5. As we said before, this is Chatwin’s first CCI2*, and he’s typically a good jumper both across country and in the show jumping.

Chatwin will now return home to Frankie and we’ll look forward to seeing him back out in the spring. He’s just 7 years old, so once again we’ve got a really exciting horse to keep an eye on.

Marilyn Little and RF Overdressed also finished on their dressage score of 42.7. This is another gorgeous mover on Marilyn’s string, and while his weekend ended early at Fair Hill he certainly got what he came for today. This horse has been a consistent performer at the two-star level and moved up to Advanced this year.

Marilyn Little and RF Overdressed. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

Marilyn Little and RF Overdressed. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hudgens / Lady Photographic.

Jon Holling and Kildalton Cooley also ended their weekend on a high note, finishing on a three day score of 55.6. I’ve really enjoyed watching this horse all weekend and am really excited to see more. This is his first completion at the CCI2* level and his highest FEI placing to date, surely a sign of things to come. Looks like you got yourself a good one, Jon!

Jon Holling and Kildalton Cooley. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

Jon Holling and Kildalton Cooley. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

Amber Levine and Carry On are another pair I really enjoyed this weekend — especially out on cross country. This pair absolutely tore up the track yesterday and when they came through the arena they were still guns blazing as they neared the end of the course. Carry On had enough in the tank to leave the rails up today as well, finishing on a final score of 59.2 for fourth place.

And rounding out the CCI2* top five are Sara Sellmer and TF Kreisler, who moved up from 12th after dressage to finish in fifth overall. Remember, the time was difficult yesterday and Sara turned one of the quickest of the day with just two seconds of time. She did lower one rail today, but she should still be pleased with her weekend. This is also the first CCI2* for this Canadian pair and they’ve had a solid year at the Intermediate level this year.

We’re all set to kick off the grand finale, the CCI3* in just about 20 minutes time so stay tuned for the full report as well as more photos from the CCI2*!

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Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal Come Out On Top of Galway Downs CCI1*

By on Nov 1, 2015 3:00 pm -
Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic. Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Hughes / Lady Photographic.

It was exceedingly tight at the top of the CCI1* here at Galway Downs, with single rails on Marc Donovan’s course dropping riders several places and the win coming down to one unfortunate rail down in the treble.

Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal gave us all a start when they rubbed a vertical flanked by giant wine bottles (I checked, there was no wine in them) hard, but somehow the poles stayed in tact and Tamie jumped clear to take home the win.

Fleeceworks Royal is a 6-year-old Holsteiner mare with loads of talent owned by Judy McSwain, and she’s definitely shown her promise with several top finishes in her short FEI career. She most recently won the Prelim Horse Championships at AECs and I’m sure we’ve seen only a glimpse of future talent here.

Megan Traynham and Lord Lombardi. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Megan Traynham and Lord Lombardi. Photo by Sally Spickard.

It was an equally impressive weekend for 16-year-old Megan Traynham and Lord Lombardi, who led following cross country but dropped the second element of the triple combination (that was coming down or at least getting some hard rubs all day) to finish on a final score of 41.7 for second place.

Megan and Lord Lombardi completed their second CCI1* together and are hoping to go to Young Riders next year — if this weekend has been any clue, this will definitely be a team to watch on the Young Rider team!

Alexandra Tett and Quiproquo Des Vatys. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Alexandra Tett and Quiproquo Des Vatys. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Alexandra Tett and Quiproquo Des Vatys were able to move from fourth into third thanks to a double clear round, ending their weekend on a 43.0. This pair completed the CCI1* at Rebecca Farm earlier this year and attain their highest FEI placing to date this weekend.

Hilary Niemann and Undercover. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Hilary Niemann and Undercover. Photo by Sally Spickard.

In fourth place are Hilary Niemann and Undercover, who lowered one tricky rail in an otherwise lovely looking round for a final score of 45.6. Hilary has produced this horse from the lower levels and completes her first CCI1* with him this weekend — without a doubt an achievement to be very proud of.

Buck Davidson and RF Outlandish. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Buck Davidson and RF Outlandish. Photo by Sally Spickard.

And finally in fifth place are Buck Davidson and Jennifer Taxay Kelly’s RF Outlandish. Fun fact: This is a catch ride for Buck, who just rode the horse for the first time earlier this week. RF Outlandish, a 7-year-old Oldenburg mare, really tried her heart out this weekend and jumped a beautiful double clear for a three day score of 45.8.

Many thanks to Vanessa Hughes of Lady Photographic for stepping in to assist me with photos as my shots of Tamie were not coming out ok. Life saver!

We’re preparing to kick off the CCI2* here in just about 30 minutes, so be sure to tune in to the live stream and stay tuned for much more straight from California!

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Watch Galway Downs FEI Show Jumping Live Stream

By on Nov 1, 2015 1:30 pm -

Ride On Video Live Event Streaming

Thanks to the hard work of the organizers as well as Ride On Video here at Galway Downs, we will have a live stream for your viewing pleasure this weekend!

Ride On Video will be streaming all three FEI divisions of show jumping today beginning at 10:45 a.m. PST / 1:45 p.m. EST. Here is the full schedule:

Sunday:
CIC*, CCI2* and CCI3* show jumping 10:45 a.m. – 3:45 p.m. PST

We’ll be re-posting the live stream before each phase. Go Galway!

All Presented Horses Pass CCI2* and CCI3* Jogs, One Withdrawn from CCI* at Galway Downs

By on Nov 1, 2015 12:00 pm -
Lauren Kieffer Meadowbrook's Scarlett, in second overnight. Photo by Sally Spickard. Lauren Kieffer Meadowbrook's Scarlett, in second overnight. Photo by Sally Spickard.

It was a pleasantly uneventful morning at the final horse inspection at Galway Downs. The FEI divisions all trotted up for the Ground Jury this morning and most all of the presented horses were accepted to continue on to show jumping.

In the CCI*, just one pair did not re-present after being sent to the hold box: Jennifer McDonald and Charlotte. Aside from that, 41 horses will move forward to show jumping which begins in about 45 minutes.

Tamie Smith and Chatwin. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Tamie Smith and Chatwin. Photo by Sally Spickard.

In the CCI2* we did see two horses sent to the hold: Caroline Smith and Lucas as well as Lauren Burnell and Counterpoint. Both were accepted upon their second jog. Taren Atkinson withdrew Gustav overnight and did not present. Overnight leaders Tamie Smith and Chatwin looked fit and fresh for their jog with Frankie Thieriot and baby Drake looking on.

Finally for the CCI3*, we had no holds and some fit looking horses for the Ground Jury to mull over. Antlone Anto was particularly fresh for Allison Springer, cantering off at first but settling down.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Poor Rachel McDonough fell victim to the water trough at the far end of the field when Irish Rhythm appeared to spook sideways. Somehow he ended up on the other side of the trough but Rachel in her effort to hang on was dragged into the water. Needless to say, I’m sure she was thankful to have a backup dress to change into! Bless her heart for being a great sport about the very comical incident.

Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect. Photo by Sally Spickard.

There were two overnight withdrawals from the CCI3*: Bella Mowbray and Star Vision as well as Ronald Zabala-Goetschel and Mr Wise Guy. In all, we’ll see 16 in the CCI3* show jumping and 14 in the CCI2*.

Don’t forget, Ride On Video is generously providing a live stream of all FEI show jumping for us beginning at 10:45 a.m. PST / 1:45 p.m. EST. We’ll be going in order from lowest to highest, with the CCI1* jumping first. The CCI2* will follow at approximately 1:20 p.m. PST / 4:20 p.m. EST and the CCI3* to wrap it up at 2:50 p.m. PST / 5:50 p.m. EST.

We’ve got an exciting conclusion to a wonderful event to look forward to this afternoon, so stay tuned for much more from Galway!

Watch Cross Country Highlights from All FEI Divisions at Galway Downs

By on Nov 1, 2015 11:00 am -

As we reported yesterday, it was a dramatic day at Galway Downs with plenty of challenges to be answered on all FEI cross country courses. Thanks to Ride On Video, we now have highlights from each of the top three of the CCI1*, CCI2* and CCI3* on cross country yesterday!

While there were plenty of problems scattered throughout each course, the top three riders all made their rounds look pretty effortless and it’s impressive to see. We can’t wait to see how the exciting finale will play out later today when the weekend concludes with the show jumping.

Stay tuned for much more from Galway!

 

Who Jumped It Best? Galway Downs CCI* Cross Country Edition

By on Nov 1, 2015 9:00 am -

We’ve finally got the first Galway Downs edition of Who Jumped It Best? ready to go! I headed out to catch some of the CCI1* cross country yesterday afternoon, and this was also a tough course as was the theme for the day.

Megan Traynham and Lord Lombardi, who were originally leading following dressage until a corrected score for Tamie Smith and Lagos Star came back, stormed around just their second CCI1* together to take the lead once again on a score of 37.7.

They’re the only pair in the FEI divisions to have a score in the 30s following cross country, and one of only two to receive a score in the 30s in the dressage.

What’s even cooler about this pair? They’re young. Megan is 15 and Lord Lombardi is 7 — definitely keep an eye out for these two!

Ian’s cross country caused its fair share of problems within this division as well — 9 riders did not complete the course and 10 more completed with jumping penalties out of the 42 finishers. It rode well for many, though, and I saw some great rides through the final water heading for home.

I was able to catch a handful of rides over a big table just before riders headed back over the berm and towards the finish. As per usual, you’re voting for the horse and rider who presents the best overall picture. The poll will close on Tuesday, November 3 at noon. Good luck to all!

Buck Davidson and RF Outlandish. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Buck Davidson and RF Outlandish. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Gina Miles and Lanacapri. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Gina Miles and Lanacapri. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Hawley Bennett-Awad and Cheval de Tonnerre.

Hawley Bennett-Awad and Cheval de Tonnerre.

Hollard Garrett and LA Lux. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Hollard Garrett and LA Lux. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Lulu Sieling and Georgio Armani. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Lulu Sieling and Georgio Armani. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Sabrina Glaser and Rembrandt. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Sabrina Glaser and Rembrandt. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Watch American Pharoah Demolish the Breeders’ Cup Classic Field

By on Oct 31, 2015 7:43 pm -

American Pharoah ended his illustrious career in style this afternoon, absolutely blowing a stacked Breeders’ Cup Classic field away to win his final race before retiring.

After losing to Keen Ice in the Travers earlier this summer, Pharoah had some time to take a breath in between races, not racing again until today. This has long been the set swan song for “America’s Horse,” who stole our hearts when he won the Triple Crown this spring.

American Pharoah won the Classic by 6 1/2 lengths in a time of 2:00.07, shattering the former Keeneland record by more than five seconds. “It’s a horse racing fairy tale and I just happen to be in it,” trainer Bob Baffert said to ESPN following the race.

Race fans all over the country are celebrating this wonder horse — truly a once in a lifetime athlete. Even at Galway, we delayed our CCI3* press conference so we could have time to watch the race.

Props to David for calling it near the top of the stretch! Photo by Ann Haller.

Props to David for calling it near the top of the stretch! Photo by Ann Haller.

Now, American Pharoah will enjoy his well-earned retirement. While I’m sure we would all love to see more from him, we still have many memories made from a horse who truly loved what he does.

Thanks for the memories, AP.