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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

EquiRatings Prepares to Launch Extensive Eventing Database

By on May 17, 2015 9:00 am -
Graphic via EquiRatings on Twitter. Graphic via EquiRatings on Twitter.

For all you number nerds out there, the new website launching this month, EquiRatings.com, will make your heart sing with joy. Specializing in eventing data and anayltics, EquiRatings has already been teasing us on Twitter with daily trivia questions and answers based on the numbers they’ve collected.

Graphic via EquiRatings on Twitter.

Graphic via EquiRatings on Twitter.

The trivia gets pretty in depth too, showing that there just may not be any limit to the scope of the database being built by EquiRatings. A visit to EquiRatings.com yields a “coming soon” page, promising trends, statistics, and analysis for every rider and every horse at every international event.

While scores for international events can be found in a rider or horse’s FEI record, there still isn’t a way to firmly track and analyze scores in one place. Organizations such as the USEA and British Eventing also offer searchable results by horse or rider, and scores are available for events in real time, but it’s difficult to collect scores for analytical purposes.

We’re eagerly awaiting the official launch of EquiRatings.com, but in the meantime we’re following them on Twitter — and you should too — for the latest updates and trivia questions. We’ll have much more on this exciting company when it officially launches, so stay tuned for much more.

American Pharoah Dominates the Preakness in the Slop

By on May 16, 2015 7:08 pm -

The floodgates opened just as the riders were given the leg up signal at Pimlico this afternoon, and torrential rain poured during the warm-up and post parade leading up to the 140th Preakness Stakes.

American Pharoah (Pioneerof the Nile – Littleprincessemma, by Yankee Gentleman), who drew the dreaded inside position in his bid to win the second leg of the Triple Crown, looked unfazed as he sauntered to the gate. The infield was emptied moments before the gates were loaded due to some thunder in the area, but the horses were loaded just about on time to get the race started.

American Pharoah broke alertly and after getting his bearings shot up to the lead, dueling early challenger Mr. Z as they headed to the first turn. The front runners set quick fractions, which would have been quick even without the mud, but American Pharoah looked relaxed and professional in the slop.

It wasn’t until the field had crested the final turn when jockey Victor Espinoza asked American Pharaoh to go on, and he hand rode the strapping bay colt almost the whole way to the wire as he powered forward to turn the race into a one-man show. Victor and American Pharoah crossed the wire seven lengths in front, stopping the clock at 1:58.46.

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So American Pharoah’s bid to win the first Triple Crown since 1978 stays alive as the Belmont Stakes looms on June 6. Naturally, there will more than likely be a field sprinkled with horses who have not been on the Triple Crown trail this year, a debate that is fierce among racing fans.

Will American Pharoah gallop his way into history next month? We’d like to hope so, but only time will tell. In the meantime, pop open the champagne, American Pharaoah. You’ve earned it.

Leslie Law, Libby Head Finish Strong and Win at CHC International

By on May 16, 2015 5:00 pm -
Libby Head and Sir Rockstar at AECs. Photo by Sally Spickard. Libby Head and Sir Rockstar at AECs. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Leslie Law maintained his lead aboard Beatrice Rey-Herme’s Tout de Suite in the CIC3* at Chattahoochee Hills this afternoon, picking up the win on a final score of 57.0 with 14 time penalties added. “Colby” really stepped up to the plate this weekend, and while Leslie will likely still continue to work to improve (as we all know, event horses are always a work in progress!), he will be pleased with the horse’s efforts.

After that, the leaderboard shook up quite a bit after Ellie MacPhail and RF Eloquence picked up 20 jumping penalties on course, dropping them down to fifth overall. Lying in third after show jumping, Jacob Fletcher and Atlantic Domino also ran into some trouble, ending their weekend with 40 penalties added to their final score.

Avery Klunick had her face painted to match her horse. Love? Photo by Libby Head.

Avery Klunick had her face painted to match her horse. Love? Photo by Libby Head.

The door was then opened for others to step up, and Avery Klunick and In It to Win It did just that. This pair moved up from fourth to take over second place, picking up 20 time penalties on course. We had to share the photo Libby sent us this afternoon — evidently face painting is available at Chatt Hills this weekend, and Avery decided she’d like to match her horse. That’s love, Avery. That’s love.

Just one pair came home clear inside the time: Nilson Moreira da Silva and Magnum’s Martini. This was Magnum Martini’s debut at this level, and the 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding owned by L and N Equestrian certainly made a statement today, moving from ninth to finish with a yellow ribbon for his efforts.

Abby Hamblin and Silver Flash also made some moves, scooting up the board from eighth to finish in fourth with another clear round with time. This pair has successfully made the step up to Advanced in 2015, and this is also their debut at the CIC3* level.

We also must give a shout-out to Jon Holling, who made his return to competition after breaking his leg earlier this spring. He piloted Proper Timing around clear with time to finish sixth today. Not to mention, Jon also threw his leg over three other horses this weekend, completing them all and taking home the win in the Prelim with Downtown Harrison. Welcome back, Jon!

Two pairs retired on course: William Hoos and Brookfield Cult King as well as Tiffany Cooke and Patent Pending. Buck Davidson withdrew D.A. Adirmo prior to cross country.

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In the Advanced, it was another day at the office for Libby Head, who will be packing her bags for Luhmühlen with an even bigger wave of confidence to ride. She told us yesterday she didn’t plan to put the pedal to the metal; she was able to cruise around with 22 time penalties for her final confidence and fitness run before she and Sir Rockstar head to Europe.

Unfortunately, Julie Norman and Consensus had a spot of trouble on course, picking up a 20 which drops them into fourth for the weekend. All is well, though, as Julie reported on Facebook that “Thomas” felt very keen today. Julie said she missed her line to a combination and had to re-approach — she’s got a happy, healthy horse back in the barn with her tonight, so they’ll regroup and get back at it next time.

Elisa Wallace and Corteo recorded the fastest time of the division, picking up 14 time to move up from fourth into second overall on a final score of 60.7. Elisa and Corteo’s owner, Rose Spillane, will be thrilled with their weekend in the gelding’s first run at the Advanced level.

Zach Brandt and Cavallino Cocktail will take third place home with them, finishing on a 63.7 with 24.4 time added today.

Both the CIC3* and Advanced divisions this weekend were qualifiers for the Adequan USEA Gold Cup Final, which will be held at AECs in September. All riders in these two divisions who completed on a number with no more than 20 cross country jumping penalties are now qualified for the Final, if they were not already. We hope to see as many of them as possible in Texas this fall!

CHC International: Website, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage

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CHC International CIC3*/Advanced Cross Country Course Preview

By on May 16, 2015 11:00 am -
Photo by Libby Head. Photo by Libby Head.

Competitors at Chattahoochee Hills will tackle Hugh Lochore’s course this afternoon, and Libby Head and Devon Brown were kind enough to send us photos from their course walk this morning.

The CIC3* and Advanced riders will be sharing essentially the same course, minus the combination at fence 13, which has a different line between the Advanced and the CIC3*.

Libby commented that the course looks open and inviting, and anticipates it will ride well. Many thanks to Libby for providing these photos. We’ll be back later today with a wrap-up after cross-country completes. Wishing everyone safe, clear and fast rides today! Go Eventing.

CHC International: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Facebook] [Rather Be Riding Photography] [By the Numbers]

Orient Express Fatally Injured at Taupo

By on May 16, 2015 8:30 am -
Clarke Johnstone and Orient Express at Kihikihi. Photo courtesy of Jane Thompson.

Clarke Johnstone and Orient Express at Kihikihi. Photo courtesy of Jane Thompson.

The Johnstone Family’s Orient Express, a 16-year-old Thoroughbred gelding piloted by Clark Johnstone, was sadly fatally injured while competing in the NRM CCI3* at Taupo in New Zealand earlier today.

Equestrian Sports New Zealand released the following statement:

It is with regret we announce that Orient Express, ridden by Clarke Johnstone and owned by the Johnstone family, was fatally injured while competing in the cross country phase at the National 3 Day Event at Taupo this afternoon.  Clarke was not injured in this incident.  Orient Express, a 16 year old gelding, had achieved many international successes in the sport.

Bev Shandley, President of the Ground Jury at the event said, “We are saddened by the loss of this fine equine athlete today, and we offer our sympathies to the Johnstone family.

Clark and Orient Express were in second place in their first CCI3* together since 2011, scoring a 38.1 in the dressage behind Shane Rose and CP Qualified.

Orient Express enjoyed a long career with Clark Johnstone, beginning his FEI career in 2006 at the one-star level. Orient Express, known as “Blue” at home, represented New Zealand on the World Equestrian Games stage in 2010, where the Kiwis took home the bronze medal.

Clark and Blue also accumulated two top-10 finishes in CCIO3* competition at Aachen as well as Blenheim in 2011. Interestingly enough, Blue was retired in 2013, but returned to FEI competition this year.

We will provide updates to this story as it develops. In the meantime, we send our deepest condolences to the Johnstone family.

Rest in peace, Blue.

 

Jordan McDonald’s Family Releases Statement on Recent Inquest

By on May 15, 2015 7:53 pm -
Jordan McDonald at Bromont in 2013. Photo by Jenni Autry. Jordan McDonald at Bromont in 2013. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Horse & Hound recently published the findings of an inquest into the rotational fall that resulted in the death of event rider Jordan McDonald at Nunney Horse Trials in 2014. The inquest reported that a “substandard body protector” was worn by Jordan at the time of his fall.

Jordan’s sister, Shannon Maas, has released a statement on behalf of the McDonald family in response to the inquest:

My brother was a smart man and he was not wearing substandard body protection. He was wearing a Tipperary vest, which is a well-known North American brand.

Mr Michael Whitlock is a registered medical practitioner and is deemed an expert in eventing safety equipment. He was the one who examined Jordan’s helmet and vest. The helmet (Charles Owen Skull Cap) performed as expected. With the vest he found that the foam pieces, in their design, were spaced too far apart to be approved by BETA standards.

Mr Whitlock stated, “In my experience working at horse trials, a Class 3 (the BETA requirement) body protector will help reduce the incidents of rib fractures from kicks but not the crush injury.”

In Mr Whitlock’s final summary he said, “It cannot be proven with any certainty that a body protector to the correct standard would have prevented a fatal injury.“

I think it’s important for people to know that Jordan was not wearing a substandard vest. Safety is very important to us and as I said before he was wearing a popular vest worn by many fellow event riders in North America.

My feeling is that the USEA and Equine Canada should follow what BE has done and make the highest standard of body protector a requirement in their rulebook. Then all organizations, including British Eventing, should develop a method to assure that the rider’s body protector meets this standard prior to competition.

I feel that Jordan’s death was a tragic accident as it was deemed by the inquest. There was no information put forward that could, with any certainty, have changed the outcome.

An important takeaway here is that the governing rules surrounding safety equipment varies according to which country a rider is competing in. British Eventing’s rules on body protector vests are as follows:

Click to enlarge image.

Click to enlarge image.

We continue to send our condolences to Jordan’s family as they continue to deal with unspeakable tragedy. To find out how you can help Jordan’s family, click here.

Friday Video from World Equestrian Brands: William Fox-Pitt’s Yard from the Air

By on May 15, 2015 6:00 pm -

I think it’s safe to say we all wish we could step inside William Fox-Pitt’s yard — and perhaps bring a few of those four-star winners back home with us! Thanks to Equilibrium Products, we now have a gorgeous birds-eye view of the place where the magic happens, or at least gets started.

From a picture perfect gallop track to neatly manicured arenas, we can see just another reason why the horses in William’s care seem to glow with happiness. Trust me, you’ll probably watch this more than once trying to picture yourself there — I know I did!

 

CHC International CIC3* Leaders Remain Unchanged, Libby Head Takes Charge of Advanced

By on May 15, 2015 5:00 pm -

The CIC3* top three all laid down strong efforts to remain on their dressage scores going into tomorrow’s cross country after this afternoon’s show jumping. Marc Donovan is the show jump course designer, and his course proved doable for the leaders and caused a handful of issues throughout the rest of the division.

“(The course) really stressed forward riding with an adjustable horse,” Ellie MacPhail, in second currently, said. “The course was made up of mostly related distances on bending lines, and you had options for whatever ride was most suitable for your horse. With the atmosphere of the big arena here, it’s especially hard to keep them focused and it rewarded the horses that were more rideable in the forward and back questions.”

Jacob Fletcher was the only one of the top three to incur jumping faults, just four, but he was still able to remain in third place on a 52.6.

Avery Klunick and In It to Win It. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Avery Klunick and In It to Win It. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Buck Davidson had eight jumping faults with D.A. Adirmo to drop into fifth place, while Avery Klunick moved up into fourth with a double clear round on In It to Win It.

Just one other CIC3* rider had a fault free round: Tiffany Cooke and Patent Pending. Jump and time penalties are on the remaining riders’ cards as they look ahead to Hugh Lochore’s cross country course. Time will almost certainly prove to be a factor, as some riders are using this event as a prep and others have horses newer to the level.

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Libby Head and her scrappy OTTB, Sir Rockstar, have overtaken the lead after show jumping in the Advanced. Libby is headed for the CCI4* at Luhmühlen next month, so this event is one of her final prep for her first trip overseas.

Libby will take a score of 37.2 into cross country, but she doesn’t have too much breathing room with Julie Norman and Consensus breathing down her neck on a 37.8.

“I think right now my plan is not necessarily to push him for time, but I’ll definitely go at a nice clip as my last real fitness run before we leave,” Libby said. “I don’t want to hammer him too hard but I also want to make sure I’m not wasting this run (as an opportunity) to get him fitter.”

With her second CCI4* — and first trip ever out of the country — looming, Libby is definitely feeling the nerves, but she’s ready for the challenge. “I am really nervous but I’m really excited, I’ve never been out of the country myself so taking a horse out of the country too — there are so many things that I didn’t even know I needed to think about! But I’m really excited to do it and to have this experience. It would be great to do well, but just being able to do it is awesome.”

Zach Brandt and Cavallino Cocktail. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Zach Brandt and Cavallino Cocktail. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Julie and Thomas incurred four jumping faults but will look to cross country to put all the pieces together, and Zach Brandt with Cavallino Cocktail moved up from fifth to third with a double clear effort.

Julie Norman and Consensus. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Julie Norman and Consensus. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Elisa Wallace and Corteo had eight jumping penalties to add to their score for a total of 46.7 after two phases, and unfortunately Lara Borson-Knight elected to retire Shooby Do on course. She reported on her Facebook page that Shooby felt not quite right, so she will save him for another day.

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CHC International: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Facebook] [Rather Be Riding Photography] [By the Numbers]

Leslie Law Tops CHC International CIC3*, Julie Norman Leads Advanced

By on May 15, 2015 1:00 pm -
Leslie Law and Tout de Suite. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Leslie Law and Tout de Suite. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Dressage kicked off for the competitors at Chattahoochee Hills this morning, and it was Leslie Law who won the first phase on the talented Tout de Suite. You may remember the 8-year-old British Sport Horse gelding from our talent spot series last year (Part One, Part Two).

Leslie Law has spent much time producing “Colby”, who is owned by Beatrice Rey-Herme, establishing consistency in the lower levels and fine tuning his dressage work as he continues to step up to new challenges.

This weekend marks Tout de Suite’s second CIC3* start, having won his debut at Poplar earlier in the spring. He scored a 43.0 today, performing the 2015 FEI 3*-A test, to take the lead over second placed Ellie MacPhail and RF Eloquence.

Ellie and “Ricky Bobby” re-routed to Chatt Hills after ending their Rolex debut earlier then anticipated and will be looking for a solid, confidence boosting run this weekend. Ellie and RF Eloquence scored a 45.9 to put themselves in great position for a competitive weekend going into the stadium jumping test.

Jacob Fletcher and Atlantic Domino. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Jacob Fletcher and Atlantic Domino. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Jacob Fletcher and Atlantic Domino also came to play today, scoring a 48.6, their best score at the three-star level to date. Jacob spent his 2014 season in England riding with Kevin McNab, and now he’s said his goal is to aim for Rebecca Farm this summer.

Jacob and Domino are coming off a win in the Advanced/Intermediate at Holly Hill as well as a fifth place in the Advanced at Texas Rose, and they hold a solid third place going into show jumping this afternoon.

Buck Davidson and D.A. Adirmo will take fourth position into show jumping, scoring a 51.8. This is the 10-year-old Dutch gelding’s return to the three-star level since 2013, and it’s great to see him back out competing for owner Debbie Adams.

Rounding out the top five in a smaller yet mighty division are the save queen herself, Avery Klunick, and In It to Win It. This pair scored a 57.8 and knocked a handful of points off their previous three-star test scores and are returning to three-star competition for the first time since being eliminated at Fair Hill last fall.

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After ending their second Rolex trip on the cross country course last month, Julie Norman and Consensus are back in action this weekend, leading the Advanced division after dressage on a score of 33.8. “Thomas” was on his best behavior for his test today, and judging by Julie’s Facebook after her ride, the Norman camp is thoroughly pleased with their performance this morning.

Julie Norman and Consensus. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Julie Norman and Consensus. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Lara Borson-Knight and Shooby Do are sitting in second place, not far off from Julie on a score of 34.7. Lara and her 11-year-old OTTB gelding are coming off of a fourth place finish in the Intermediate at River Glen. They also completed the Advanced at Rocking Horse earlier this year.

Lara posted on her Facebook that there were some “could have been better, could have been worse” moments in their test, with several things to continue working on and several movements that showed improvement from recent hard work.

Lara Borson-Knight and Shooby Do. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Lara Borson-Knight and Shooby Do. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Elisa Wallace and Corteo round out the top three in the Advanced on a score of 35.7. This is Rose Spillane’s 8-year-old Dutch Warmblood’s Advanced debut, having had a solid final prep for the step up in the CCI2* at Ocala last month.

Elisa and Corteo have had a partnership since the gelding was learning the ropes at the lower levels, so this is a fulfilling moment for everyone involved in the journey that is producing an upper level event horse.

Elisa Wallace and Corteo. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

Elisa Wallace and Corteo. Photo courtesy of Rather Be Riding Photography.

The upper levels will show jump this afternoon, before contesting cross country tomorrow, so stay tuned for much more from Georgia. Many thanks to Rather Be Riding Photography, who has provided some lovely photos from the dressage action this morning. Be sure to visit their Facebook page for more, and check out the gallery below for more photos from the three-star and Advanced.

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CHC International: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Facebook] [Rather Be Riding Photography] [By the Numbers]

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By on May 14, 2015 4:00 pm -

We hope you’ve got your shopping pants on this week, EN! We caught a glimpse of a few show stopping OTTBs this week, and we couldn’t wait to share some of our favorites with you today. If you spot one you’re interested, act fast!

Photo courtesy of CANTER PA.

Photo courtesy of CANTER PA.

First up is a lovely gelding named Royal Ignition who just screams sport horse. Royal Ignition (Jump Start – Royal Illusion, by Louis Quartorze) is a 2006, 16.2hh model who raced 48 times, earning just under $64,000 in his career. Royal Ignition has been with the same trainer for seven years, so you’ll be getting him from someone who knows him inside and out — always a plus!

Royal Ignition is advertised on CANTER PA, and we know he’ll be happily headed to his new home soon! Check out more information on this guy here.

Photo via CANTER Mid Atlantic.

Photo via CANTER Mid Atlantic.

Our second horse is just as striking as our first! Meet Automatic Jax, who is currently available through CANTER Mid Atlantic at Mountaineer Park. Automatic Jax (Broken Vow – Nite in Rome, by Harlan’s Holiday) is a 2011 gelding standing 16hh. He did come in with a slight hitch in his gait, and the vets determined that he may have a slight case of stringhalt, but he’s been deemed sound to continue on to a second career.

Automatic Jax raced 22 times, hitting the board nine times. He’s currently enjoying 24/7 turnout and is ready to move into his new home. To find out more, click here.

Photo courtesy of New Vocations.

Photo courtesy of New Vocations.

Last but most certainly not least is this lovely mare, Shooting Star, who is available through New Vocations in Marysville, Oh. Shooting Star (Iron Deputy – Sweetgeorgiabrown, by Mazel Trick) is a special mare who is looking for someone to really form a bond of trust with her. She’s got striking looks and is well built for just about anything, but she will need someone who will draw out her “fun side” and personality.

Shooting Star only raced four times, so she’s fresh and ready to continue on to her next career. Will it be with you? Find out more here.

Jessica Phoenix Update: Plans Being Made to Transport Back to Canada [UPDATE]: Back in Canada

By on May 14, 2015 1:18 pm -
"All is well in New Jersey! Rocking the side braid heading out of the ICU tonight!!! Thanks so much for all the love and support." Photo via Phoenix Equestrian Team on Facebook.

We’re pleased to report that Jessica Phoenix is still on the mend and making great progress as she recovers from injuries sustained in a fall at Jersey Fresh last weekend. We last reported that Jessica had progressed enough to be moved out of the ICU at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ.

Now, it appears that plans are being made to transport her to a hospital back in Toronto, which will allow her to be closer to home.

“We are working on getting her back to (a) hospital in Toronto, but not sure when that will happen,” Jessica’s husband, Joel, told us. “We hope today or tomorrow, but no confirmation yet! She is feeling better and starting to move slowly; she’s making very good progress.”

Jessica broke three ribs and her sacrum, the triangular bone at the base of the spine, in the fall; she also sustained damage to her liver, which was repaired Saturday afternoon in surgery. She was wearing an air vest during the fall.

We’ll continue to bring you up to date information on Jessica’s recovery. In the meantime, please continue to send well wishes to Jessica as she continues her #superwoman battle back to the saddle.

#teamjessica

We made it home!! So great to be back in canada :)))

Posted by Phoenix Equestrian Team on Friday, May 15, 2015

[UPDATE 5/15, 11:40 a.m. EST]: The Phoenix Equestrian Team just posted on their Facebook page that Jessica has safely been transported to a hospital in Canada. After a bed opened up, Jessica was flown via air ambulance and will now finish her recovery much closer to home.

Stay tuned for more updates!

[Jessica Phoenix Moved Out of ICU]

[Jessica Phoenix Injury Update After Fall at Jersey Fresh]

 

The Alchemyst Takes on Teacher Role with Lauren Sherrill

By on May 14, 2015 11:00 am -
Debbie Rosen and The Alchemyst at the 2014 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Photo by Jenni Autry. Debbie Rosen and The Alchemyst at the 2014 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Photo by Jenni Autry.

After the Nutrena American Eventing Championships last fall, Debbie Rosen bid farewell to her longtime partner, The Alchemyst, as he headed back East in Laine Ashker’s trailer. Debbie had decided to retire her Canadian Sport Horse gelding from upper level competition, and she was entrusting longtime friend Jennie Brannigan to find him a new partner in crime.

Debbie and “Al”, who is 15 this year, enjoyed a long partnership at the Advanced and above levels, and Debbie looked forward to handing the reins to someone for Al to assume the role of teacher.

After testing several possibilities for a sale, a new prospective opportunity surfaced when Jennie and Laine sat down to dinner one evening. “Both Jennie and Laine have previous experience with the horse,” Debbie said. “Together, they hatched an idea for Laine’s working student, Lauren Sherrill, to lease Al.”

The situation couldn’t have worked out any better if the ladies had tried. Lauren was looking for a horse on which she could gain more experience at the Prelim level.

“When we brought Al home with us from AECs, I got to hack him and watched Laine jump him around,” Lauren recalled. “He was just so much fun. I had been looking for something to gain some mileage on, and we’d tried a few others but hadn’t really found anything yet. I wanted something that I could make the ‘green’ mistakes on without killing their confidence.”

While Debbie had had several offers for lease homes or sales, she couldn’t quite fill the niche she sought. “I didn’t necessarily want him to go and be a Pan American Games horse for someone, and he was good for some of the lower level people but I just didn’t feel he was ready for that yet.”

Debbie had added the option to lease the horse should the right situation present itself. “I never really knew leasing was such a big thing for eventers,” Debbie said. “It’s a great way for juniors and amateurs to get experience, it just hadn’t been something I’d thought of at first.”

The Alchemyst surveys his new home in Virginia. Photo via Lauren Sherrill on Facebook.

The Alchemyst surveys his new home in Virginia. Photo via Lauren Sherrill on Facebook.

As luck would have it, The Alchemyst soon found himself on his way to join Lauren in Virginia with the signing of a year’s lease agreement. “We just thought it was perfect,” Lauren said. “I really wanted something to give me confidence, especially in the jumping phases — a cross country machine. And that’s really what (Al) is.”

Lauren and Laine picked Al up from Jennie last week, and they’ve already set out to begin their partnership. While Lauren doesn’t have any immediate plans to compete him, she’s hoping to eventually step out to the one-star level in the coming months.

“I want to get really confident at Prelim and maybe do a one-star,” Lauren said. “I want to do as much as I can and learn everything he has to teach me.”

As Al settles into his home for at least the next year, Debbie couldn’t be more thrilled with how everything worked out. “He really loves it on the East Coast,” she said. “He settled in right away; I couldn’t offer him the big pastures and the hacking space here in Los Angeles, so it’s the best thing for him.”

Debbie is fully supportive of whatever the future may hold for Lauren and Al. “I think longer term (for the lease) is a definite possibility,” she said. “The horse goes around Prelim like it’s Novice. It just depends on what (Lauren) wants to do. If she wants to step up to Intermediate, I think he could absolutely do it.”

Both Lauren and Debbie are thankful for Jennie and Laine’s involvement in finding the perfect match for the big gelding. “(Jennie) always only wants what is best for the horse,” Debbie said. “Al is going to someone who I trust immensely, and with Jennie’s obvious stamp of approval. I couldn’t have dreamt of a better way for this to work out.”

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: An Eventing Passion Project

By on May 13, 2015 6:00 pm -

EN reader Cornelia Dorr sent us this great video from a recent school project that she produced. “I was assigned as my final project for English class to present my passion to my grade. That was easy! Within two seconds I knew that I was going to do,” she said. “I made a video which you can see here. It is clips of my horse Hugo and I  (aka Sir Patico MH) competing. My goal was to show my class what it takes to be an event rider and how much time and energy it requires. Not many of them are familiar with horse let alone our sport.”

Cornelia competes at Prelim on the East Coast with her horse, Sir Patico MH. Many thanks to Cornelia for sending in this great video — we think the accompanying speech makes for a truly relatable video. Go Eventing!

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Vote for the Winner of Our One K Caption Contest

By on May 12, 2015 4:30 pm -
Lainey Ashker and Anthony Patch after completing Rolex. Photo courtesy of Hannah Cardew. Lainey Ashker and Anthony Patch after completing Rolex. Photo courtesy of Hannah Cardew.

Last week, we asked you to caption this great shot from One K rider Lainey Ashker and Anthony Patch’s show jumping round at Rolex. Between Lainey’s elated smile and Al’s funny expression, we thought the possibilities for captions were endless.

You didn’t disappoint, as we received over 50 entries for this caption contest. The lucky winner will receive a One K Defender Bling helmet, so the competition was fierce. We’ve narrowed the field to 11 finalists, and now it’s your turn to decide the winner.

Voting will conclude on Friday, May 15 at 5 p.m. EST, and we’ll announce the winner in Sunday’s Links from One K Helmets. Good luck to all of our finalists!

1. Maura Gorman: “There was a spider on me the WHOLE TIME? Where?! Get it off!”

2. Liz Hocking: Lainey: “Sunday night and we takin’ Rolex…” Al: “Don’t believe us, just watch!” (to the tune of Bruno Mars’ Uptown Funk)

3. Cathy Bittinger: “Guess what day it is! Jump daaay! Yeah! Whoop whoop!”

4. Kate Lassiter: “Oh my god is that fischerRocana? Stop mom, you’re embarrassing me.”

5. Anna Clifton: #ermahgerd #boom #dropthemic

6. Becca Willner: “Home by when? Mom, I just jumped clear at Rolex. No curfew tonight, fischerRocana and I are going out. Gettin’ lucky in Kentucky.”

7. Jill Haag: “OMG … Buck Davidson just winked at me!!”

8. Joan Mayfield: “Don’t you point that thing at me!”

9. Amy Lacy: “Al’s got bling for brains!”

10. Erica Seib: “OK Laine, you said there’d be a watch … I’m not seeing any watch … Where’s the watch … stop pointing at me … I can’t find the watch…”

11. Bethany Astorino: “Hold me back, Imma bout to spaz … FourFiveSeconds from spookin'” (to the tune of Rihanna’s FourFiveSeconds)

Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: Jersey Fresh CCI3* Water Complex

By on May 12, 2015 3:00 pm -

RNS Video provides a great montage from most of the major events they cover, and Jersey Fresh International was no different. This footage from the water complex on the CCI3* course is both entertaining and educational, providing a look at how each rider approaches the question and how their horses respond.

Many thanks to RNS Video for the great videos, as always! Be sure to check out their YouTube channel for more videos as they are uploaded from Jersey Fresh.

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.

 

Entries Now Open for the Fifth Annual EN Blogger Contest

By on May 12, 2015 1:30 pm -

It’s that time of year, EN! The Fifth Annual Eventing Nation Blogger Contest is upon us. If you’ve followed along with the previous Blogger Contests, you know that this is your shot to join the eclectic EN team that delivers your daily eventing fix.

The past winners of our Blogger Contest have gone on to take positions with EN and its sister site, Horse Nation, after wowing us (and Chinch, who constitutes a majority vote) with their creative skills. The first ever winner, Leslie Wylie, is now the Managing Editor for Horse Nation and also is a part of the traveling event coverage team here at EN.

Jenni Autry, one of our fearless leaders, is now the the Managing Editor of EN after winning the second Blogger Contest in 2012. She’s also our head globetrotter, traipsing about the eventing world with her loyal Chinch in tow, tracking down the best Chinch photobomb opportunities and interviewing William Fox-Pitt in her spare time.

In 2013, I joined the team as a finalist in the Blogger Contest and now find myself as a part of the coverage team as well as the sponsor account manager. It’s an opportunity I never thought would be possible, until it was. This team has truly been a blessing to work for, and while I essentially live and breathe eventing, at least it’s my job to do so now.

Erin Critz and Maggie Deatrick, our 2013 and 2014 Blogger Contest winners, are also integral parts of the team. Erin is our lead weekend Links correspondent, and you know Maggie as our resident crystal ball reader, whose predictions on who will win each major event in the U.S. are eerily accurate.

The opportunities are truly endless for the right person, and we want you to show us why you would be the perfect fit to join our team.

The fine print:

Contestants should want to write part-time for Eventing Nation — at least two to three posts per week. If this already sounds like too much, don’t apply. All are eligible (including previous contestants), and no prior experience is necessary. Personal style is a must. Take risks. Laugh. Entertain. Create something only you can create.

Your Round 1 entries should include a short bio (name, age, background, character-defining qualities, embarrassing tidbits, etc.) and a 300 to 600 word sample of your best eventing-related work.

The EN team will judge by the same standards as the last three years (interesting, funny, informative, creative) and factor public opinion into our final decision. Keep in mind that you’re writing for a very large audience, and we’ll be selecting finalists based on the quality of entries — no pressure.

Entries are due one week from today, on Tuesday, May 19 at 8 p.m. EST. Email your entry to [email protected] with the subject “EN Blogger Contest Entry.” Good luck, and Go Eventing.

Monday Videos from Tredstep Ireland: Lauren Kieffer’s CIC3* Win at Jersey Fresh

By on May 11, 2015 4:30 pm -

Tredstep rider Lauren Kieffer and Jacqueline Mars’ Landmark’s Monte Carlo skipped to the CIC3* win at Jersey Fresh this past weekend. This was the 9-year-old Irish/Thoroughbred cross gelding’s first CIC3*, though you wouldn’t have known it watching him make light work of the challenging questions.

After scoring a 46.2, good for second place, in the dressage, Lauren and Landmark’s Monte Carlo went on to add just eight time penalties on cross country to move into first place, also claiming just one of a handful of double clear rounds in the show jumping.

Thanks to The Horse Pestesrer, we can get a good look at what is surely an exciting talent in Lauren’s string. We’ll be on the lookout for more from this talented young horse! Be sure to check out all of The Horse Pesterer’s videos from the weekend here.

#JFI3DE: Website, Live Scores,Ride Times, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram,@jenniautry

 

A Stallion on Top: Chilli Morning’s Recipe for Success

By on May 11, 2015 12:00 pm -
William Fox-PItt and Chilli Morning jump an immaculate clear to take the title. Photo by Samantha Clark. William Fox-PItt and Chilli Morning jump an immaculate clear to take the title. Photo by Samantha Clark.

It’s not often we see a stallion who achieves what this 15-year-old Brandenburg stallion owned by Chris Stone has, but this weekend we saw pure greatness from Chilli Morning as he neatly finished Badminton on his dressage score.

Formerly campaigned by both Mary King and Nick Gauntlett, the stallion has steadily worked his way up the ranks, finishing third individually at last year’s World Equestrian Games with William Fox-Pitt in the irons and finally this weekend winning what no other stallion has won before: Badminton Horse Trials.

With the argument that successful event horses must possess a substantial amount of Thoroughbred blood, Chilli Morning’s genetic makeup does not disappoint. He is 56.25% Thoroughbred thanks to a predominantly Thoroughbred sire line. His sire line shows much success on the racetrack, while the damsire line shows success in the Olympic show jumping arena (Kolibri show jumped at the Olympic level). You can view more details on his breeding here.

Screenshot (38)

Chilli Morning has also been active in the breeding shed, utilizing his vacation time from competition to produce what many hope will be successful sport horses for the future. These exciting youngsters include two 2010 foals from Mary King’s prolific mount, King’s Temptress.

King Robert and King’s Ginger both began their eventing careers with Mary in the irons this spring. It’s no secret that these two are regally bred for success in the sport of eventing, so only time will tell just how successful they will be. You can view more information on Chilli’s progeny by clicking here.

Screenshot (37)

Chilli was selected for his athletic ability as well as his temperament — more than a few comments on his calm demeanor in high pressure situations — and he demonstrated that focus perfectly in yesterday’s pressure cooker of a show jumping arena at Badminton.

The horse also played a key role for the British team at last year’s WEG, where he won individual bronze and team silver. In what many have called the worst footing they’ve seen on a cross country course, William Fox-Pitt expertly piloted Chilli around to pick up just 12.8 time penalties to add to his dressage score. The horse came back the next day still fighting fit, and though he lowered one rail it was still a memorable performance.

William also brought Chilli to Rolex in 2013 but retired the stallion on course after picking up an early runout. He went back to his daily routine of thorough preparation and went on to pick up four top-10 placings at the three-star level before being selected to the British WEG team.

It’s exceedingly rare to see a stallion have such measured success at the top levels of the sport. Windfall, the famed Trakehner stallion, is the last stallion to win an event of this magnitude when he picked up the win in the modified division of the 2004 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. These two continue to dominate the household talk when it comes to successful eventing stallions and for good reason.

Congratulations once again to Chris Stone, William Fox-Pitt and all who have had a hand in Chilli Morning’s success. It’s without a doubt exciting to see a stallion taste victory on the world stage, and we’re sure we’ve not seen the last from Chilli and his progeny.

#MMBHT: Website, Final Scores, EN’s Coverage

Watch Niklas Bschorer Make the Best Save at Badminton

By on May 11, 2015 10:30 am -

As we return from yet another action packed weekend, we find ourselves reviewing the best moments from the events around the world. This particular moment from Badminton will not soon be forgotten, as it’s truly a display of both athleticism, determination, and more than a dash of sheer stubbornness.

German rider Niklas Bschorer was contesting his first Badminton with Tom Tom Go 3 when he encountered some trouble at the lake complex. Many pairs had this same issue, not quite making it to the bank on the correct stride, making for an awkward exit from the water and an impossible question in the bounce that followed.

Tom Tom Go 3, a 12-year-old Holsteiner gelding, knew he couldn’t make the bounce work and ducked to the side to regain his balance after all but scrambling up the bank. This motion tossed Niklas out the right door, but fortunately he was able to push off of the jump and somehow regain his position — after inflating his air vest, naturally.

Unfortunately, Niklas and Tom Tom Go 3 would retire on course, but they fought their way through this question with enough tenacity that we’re confident we’ll see them back again in no time at all.

#MMBHT: Website, Final Scores,EN’s Coverage

Friday Videos from World Equestrian Brands: Jersey Fresh Dressage Highlights

By on May 8, 2015 4:18 pm -

The Horse Pesterer has popped up again, this time at the Horse Park of New Jersey, just in time to catch some FEI dressage at Jersey Fresh. He’ll be uploading videos to his YouTube channel throughout the weekend, so go ahead and click that “Subscribe” button — you know you want to.

Here’s a look at some of the great dressage rides from the CCI2* and CCI3* yesterday. Stay tuned for much more from Jersey Fresh!

#JFI3DE: Website, Live Scores,Ride Times, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram,@jenniautry

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: A Love Story, Continued

By on May 6, 2015 3:00 pm -

How often have we all had to take a few moments to escape from the world in  our horse’s stall? There’s something soothing about the smell of hay and the comforting presence of a horse who gives us its all each day. Kentucky Performance Products’ latest campaign on the love stories we share with our horses always hits a chord, and their latest video is no different.

What’s your favorite part about a quiet moment with your horse? Tell us all about it in the comments below!

The horse that matters to you matters to us®. 

Click here to sign up for KPP’s nutritional minute. Join other horse lovers who receive monthly: 

Fast facts on horse nutrition and care

Informational “tips and topics” articles

Educational infographic downloads

Fun cartoons 

You can count on Kentucky Performance Products to provide affordable, high-quality, research-proven products that carry a 100% satisfaction guarantee. 

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.

Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: Jersey Fresh Hype Video

By on May 5, 2015 4:30 pm -

Jersey Fresh International will commence tomorrow beginning with the first horse inspection for the CCI competitors. With this being the final selection trial for the Pan American Games this summer, there is a lot on the line for the competitors hoping to plant themselves on the radar for team selection.

There’s a buzz of excitement this week with both Jersey and Badminton running this weekend, and we found the perfect hype video to get us excited. Thanks to YouTube user Charmingtorri, this video showcases some of the action from last weekend’s event.

Jenni will be on the ground for EN this weekend in New Jersey, so stay tuned for the latest and greatest coverage right here on EN. Go Jersey!

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.

Congratulations to the Dubarry Rolex Nations Team Challenge Fantasy Winner!

By on May 5, 2015 3:00 pm -

It was a hard fought battle, but at the end of the day only one winner can be crowned. Over 300 teams duked it out in our first ever Rolex Fantasy League, sponsored by Dubarry, this year. With the usual team format of four members, one score was eligible to be dropped.

We ended up with a four team tie for first place with a total score of 134.9. With the tiebreaker picks in place, we were able to narrow the field down to one winner: team Rockin’ Rolex, piloted by Barbara Price Morrison!

Team Rockin' Rolex. Remember, Zara's score was dropped from the total.

Team Rockin’ Rolex. Remember, Zara’s score was dropped from the total.

Barbara is the lucky recipient of a “Toe to Head” Dubarry of Ireland winner, thanks to the generosity of our sponsor. We can’t thank Dubarry enough for sponsoring this league as well as the masterminds behind Fantasizr, who were able to create a custom league to accommodate us.

We’d like to sincerely thank each and every one of you who played in this year’s Fantasy League. We definitely plan to bring this back next year, and so we’d like to welcome your feedback on ideas for improvement the next time around. Please send your feedback to [email protected] so that we know what you’d like to see next year. We appreciate you sticking with us during some growing pains, and we’re already excited and planning ahead for 2016.

Congratulations again to our big winner, and thank you, as always, for your support. Go Eventing.