View Classifieds
Sally Spickard
Articles Written 4,644
Article Views 12,238,829

Sally Spickard

Achievements

Become an Eventing Nation Blogger

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

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: Bobbie Jones’ First Training Level Helmet Cam

By on Jun 1, 2015 5:30 pm -
Bobbie Jones and Rebel's Heartbreaker. Photo via Bobbie on Facebook. Bobbie Jones and Rebel's Heartbreaker. Photo via Bobbie on Facebook.

Our favorite chatty eventer is back with her latest helmet cam from IEA this past weekend. Together with her American Paint, Rebel’s Heartbreaker, Bobbie successfully completed her first Training level event in ninth place with a double clear cross country run. Despite some rainy conditions, Bobbie and Rebel cheerfully made their way around the course, with plenty of verbal encouragement from Bobbie.

Bobbie excitedly posted on her Facebook after her run:

“Well, it’s official, Rebel and I are a Training Level team! We completed our very first Training event with a double clear cross country round in the rain, despite pulling another shoe (Yes ANOTHER…. that makes 2 shoes off in 3 days….), and finished 9th! I am so proud of that pony! He’s absolutely the best pony ever, no doubt about it!”

Congratulations to Bobbie and Rebel on successful move up! You can catch up on Bobbie’s other helmet cams using the link below. Don’t forget, we want to see your helmet cams too! Send them to [email protected] and look for them right here on EN!

Bobbie Jones and Rebel’s Heartbreaker Take Texas by Storm

 

Product Review: Bucas Buzz Off Full Neck Fly Sheet

By on Jun 1, 2015 9:00 am -
Photo by Sally Spickard. Photo by Sally Spickard.

I went to the barn the other day in shorts (and muck boots — blasted mud!) and came home feeling all crawly from the number of flies that are already out this year. It’s been so wet here in Kansas City that I can only imagine how many creepy crawly creatures are having a free for all reproducing, and they’re definitely out in full force on the hot, muggy days in between thunderstorms.

The pasture my horse lives in is kind of neat because it’s on top of a hill, which makes for a nice breeze to keep the air moving on the stuffy days. It also helps a bit when it comes to keeping the bugs away. Unfortunately, flies are some of the most resilient creatures I’ve ever encountered, so my poor guy still finds himself all twitchy from the flies.

I’ve been exploring fly sheet options, and the last thing I wanted to end up with was something that felt like it was made from old lawn chair material. You know, the stiff, unforgiving nearly plastic feeling “mesh” that wards off flies and also prevents any sort of movement, nevermind comfort.

Having enjoyed my experience with Jesse’s light turnout blanket, which is a Bucas Power Turnout, I was eager to give the Bucas Buzz Off sheet a try as well. Obviously, my first criteria was the material, which did not disappoint me. The mesh is very lightweight and flexible, which means it can move when Jesse moves without rubbing.

I went ahead and tried the full neck option for Jesse — call me overprotective, #sorrynotsorry — and was pleased to see that he looked well covered once I got it on, but also not like he was going to sweat to death underneath all of that covering.

The belly band feature of the Buzz Off Fly Sheet. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The belly band feature of the Buzz Off Fly Sheet. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Once again, the attention to detail on Bucas’ part is fantastic. From the front closure, which emphasizes comfort and protection, to the well thought-out belly band which offers another layer of protection from the biters, it’s clear that the horse was in the designers’ minds as they created the fly sheet.

The belly band is really neat, and it’s flexible which will allow Jesse to roll or go through any of his other daily antics without worry of dislodging the blanket. But, if you aren’t a fan of the belly band it’s fully detachable, although the belly band does help stabilize the sheet, so it’s a nice way to ensure it doesn’t get loose during turnout.

Although there are no shoulder darts on the Buzz Off sheet, I was pleased to see that Jesse was still able to move around with it on. He has gained a bit of weight from the spring grass, so even though he typically wears a 75″, I found this sheet to be just a bit snug. However, his Power Turnout is also a 75″ and I tried that on to be sure that it was just him gaining a bit of weight, and I can report that the sheet does still fit true to size. Suffice it to say, now that he’s going into full summer work the sheet should fit perfectly soon enough.

The Bucas Buzz Off Fly Sheet is available in a full neck and also a classic sheet. There is also a matching fly mask available if you want to get the full outfit going on. Why not, right? I sure would want everything possible to ward off the flies this summer. It’s going to be an interesting one!

You can find more on the Buzz Off line (and purchase your own!) here. We’re also giving one of these great sheets away in this week’s Fab Freebie, so be sure to enter here before midnight on Friday, June 5. Good luck!

Fab Freebie: Bucas Buzz Off Fly Sheet

By on Jun 1, 2015 9:00 am -
Photo by Sally Spickard. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Fly season is here! And, if you are lucky enough to live in certain parts of the country, locust season too. I was driving to the barn yesterday and happened to have my windows down so I could hear the buzzing of what sounded like thousands upon thousands of locusts. Great, right? At least they aren’t particularly pesky, but I’d still prefer to not have a bunch of insect carcasses strewn about. Just my preference, though.

Luckily, Bucas offers some really great options for fly control, and with any luck your horse will be comfortable and relatively fly-free this summer. If you’ve been in the market for a new fly sheet for this year, you definitely need to check out the Buzz Off Fly Sheet from Bucas. It’s offered in full neck and regular options, and we’re giving you the opportunity to win one this week! Be sure to read up on the Buzz Off Fly Sheet in our review here.

You know the drill: simply use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter up to three times. We’ll announce the winner in Friday’s News & Notes. Good luck to all! We’re sure your horse will thank you.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclaimer: Information given in the Rafflecopter widget, including email addresses, may be shared with the corresponding sponsor at their request. You will also be signed up for our weekly EN eNews email newsletter, if you aren’t already. Don’t worry — you’ll just wonder what you’ve been missing out on — and you can unsubscribe if you don’t want it.

Dear Mz. Manners: Horse Edition

By on May 31, 2015 11:00 am -
Photo by Jessica Spengler via Flickr/Creative Commons

Photo by Jessica Spengler via Flickr/Creative Commons

As part of the Thoroughbred Aftercare movement, CANTER has watched the transformation of endless horses as they leave the racetrack to embark on new adventures. Some horses make the transition seamlessly, others find the sport horse world foreign and ridiculous. For those horses, Mz. Manners is primed to address their questions and concerns.

 Dear Mz. Manners,

I recently shipped to a new track and have found myself in a delicate situation. The people are nice and all, but the riders are colossal in size. There’s no way these jocks are making weight. I swear to you, these riders are so large, no one will offer them a leg up; instead they bribe me to stand beside this huge wood block just to get their Amazon feet in the stirrups. It’s like carrying two riders on my back; is this what handicappers mean by a “daily double”?

Weighed Down in Wilmington

Dear Weighed Down in Wilmington,

On behalf of those riders who have not weighed 116 pounds in a very long time, I apologize. However, I think you will find numerous benefits that go along with your “gigantic” lifestyle. Have you noticed nearly everything in your world is bigger – stalls, paddocks, treats? I am certain within a few months you, too, will be letting your girth out a few holes and join the category of “colossal.” Enjoy it!

Mz. Manners,

I have this sweet new owner who purchased me off the track; she found a huge green paddock for me to live in and life is good, mostly. However, she has a dark side. Every day she pulls me out and tortures me with what she calls “grooming.” She has these special made brushes that are made out of nails; I’m telling you if she pushes any harder my skin is going to rip off. I wanna kick her in the gut. Please explain this barbaric practice?

Bald in Buffalo

Dear Baldy,

Transitioning a human to OTTB etiquette takes patience; you may wish to study up on different types of negative reinforcement to address unwanted behavior. I would start with some fair, but firm nipping. Aim for any loose or flabby skin; you’ll get double impact of causing physical pain, as well as mental anguish in the realization that she’s been consuming far too many Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappachinos. If her uncalled-for conduct persists, you may progress to the next step, an old-fashioned foot stomp. By swishing your tail prior to aiming, she will assume there is a fly and will immediately forgive you. If all else fails, kick her in the gut – people need rules and boundaries.

 Mz. Manners,

Since leaving the racetrack, my owner rides me ad nauseam. Six days a week, round and round we go. I try to coach her on aerobic fitness, randomly scooting forward and sideways, but she always goes back to that incessant jog, circling until I’m too dizzy to object. Didn’t anyone tell her that at the track we only have to make two laps and we’re done for the day? To rub salt in the wound, she tells all her little friends I’m a RETIRED racehorse. I don’t think that word means what she thinks it means. Help!

Overworked in Orlando

Dear Overworked in Orlando,

People talk about racing being strenuous, but many after-track careers are no joke. While the day in day out training may be more monotonous than you are accustomed, with consistency comes results. For instance, have you taken a glimpse of yourself in the dressage mirrors lately? SCRUMPTIOUS BOOTY, don’t you think? You will need a strong caboose to fight off all those advances in the pasture. So rest up, my friend, you have several decades before you can cash in on that pension!

To all the ex-racehorses who have bravely made the career change from runner to sport horse, we applaud you. If you or your human have any questions to be addressed by Mz. Manners, please feel free to e-mail her at [email protected].

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By on May 29, 2015 2:12 pm -

Oh hey, fellow OTTB lovers of the world! We’re wrapping up three of our favorite listings from around the interwebs this week, and we can’t wait to see where these lovely horses end up next. We’d also like to take a moment to thank the organizations responsible for helping these horses by allowing us to share their photos and listings. The more people we can share these horses with, the better chance they have of finding an excellent new home.

Photo courtesy of Finger Lakes Finest.

Photo courtesy of Finger Lakes Finest.

Our first listing this week comes to us from Finger Lakes Finest in New York. Warrior From Above (A. P. Warrior – Mooncoin, by Conquistador Cielo) is a 2008 gelding standing 16 hands tall. He raced 51 times, most recently on May 22, earning $62,846 in his career. According to his listing, Warrior From Above’s trainer has nothing but great things to say about his athletic ability. He’s said to be a barn favorite and will surely excel in a worthy new home.

Warrior From Above on Finger Lakes Finest

Photo used with permission from CANTER Texas.

Photo used with permission from CANTER Texas.

Calling all gray fans! If only they could find a way to make those dapples permament, eh? Mister Ricky (Air Commander – Sal’s My Gal, by Empire Glory) is a 2010 17 hand gelding offered through CANTER Texas. This guy raced 22 times and won once, also hitting the board on eight other occasions.

Mister Ricky is said to have a great mind and is sound for his next career. Don’t let this one be the one that got away!

Mister Ricky on CANTER Texas

Photo courtesy of CANTER Illinois.

Photo courtesy of CANTER Illinois.

Finally this week is a listing from CANTER Illinois by the name of Bullet Bob (Good Reward – Dart, by Farma Way). Bullet Bob is a 2011 model standing 16 hands and ready for you to take him to his new home. Bullet Bob raced 16 times and is advertised as very sweet to handle. We think he makes quite the athletic looking package!

Bullet Bob on CANTER Illinois

What Do You Do When No One is Watching?

By on May 29, 2015 11:53 am -
Sometimes the behind the scenes moments can be the best. Sometimes the behind the scenes moments can be the best.

I recently read a quote that resonated with me: “Don’t compare your behind the scenes with everyone else’s highlight reel.”

That stuck with me, and made me really think about the nature of comparison and how it correlates with self-worth. Social media is here to stay — if anything, its presence in our lives is growing at a frighteningly exponential rate.

It’s easy to put on a face. Upload a few photos of your smiling face to your Facebook and insert a few “humble brags” about your latest show or ride and you’ve easily created a picture of yourself that others may aspire to be. And that’s fine! That is what your Facebook is for — to remember things, the good, bad and the ugly.

But on the flip side, it’s very easy to get sucked into someone else’s world by comparing your life and your accomplishments to theirs. You see someone who is 10 years younger than you competing at Rolex. Someone just bought their second or third horse when you’re still saving for your first. These things happen, so how do you stop yourself from falling into that pit of comparison envy?

Think about what you do when no one is watching. What does your “behind the scenes” footage look like? Surely it’s not all glitz and glamour — if it is, please tell me your secret!

Let’s say you have a goal. That goal is to compete in an FEI event with your horse that you’ve produced yourself. Sure, it’s easy to look around your Facebook or Instagram and see people who already there. They make it look easy! Maybe you aren’t cut out for this, since you’re barely cantering cross rails right now. Before you know it, you’re down in the dumps and you aren’t entirely sure how you go to that point.

Remove yourself from the trap of comparison for just a moment. Take a good look at what your everyday life looks like. What are you doing to achieve your goals? Every moment spent envying someone else’s accomplishments is a moment wasted that could have been used to take one small step closer to making your dream a reality.

Instead of focusing on what others have that you don’t, focus on what you need to do to become the person you aspire to be like. Focus on the little things.

Do you and your horse look respectable each time you set foot in the arena, or do you look like you just climbed out of bed and pulled your horse out of a mud pit? Do you take the time to listen to what your coach is saying and practice the things you don’t like when they are not around?

Do you spend time with your horse, establishing a bond and getting to know every vital sign and every marking on his body so that you are the first to know if something is off?

When you get home, do you immediately switch your brain off until the next ride, or do you reflect on what you learned and what you need to work on? Do you take a few minutes to read an article on an exercise you’d like to try or watch a video on YouTube of a rider who sets a good example for your riding style?

These are just a few of the questions to ask yourself when you get stuck in a cycle of feeling down on yourself. Be meticulous. Do your homework. Trust me, each and every person out there has had to walk a difficult road to get to where they are. Horses are heartbreaking, and they’re expensive. This is a reality that every horse person must accept and work with — they don’t call it an addiction without good reason.

This is something I myself struggle with on a daily basis. When I read the quote I began this post with, I tried to realign my way of thinking (which is much easier said than done) and focus more on what steps I was taking to improve myself.

Be cognizant of what you do when no one is watching. These are the moments that build you up to reap the fruits of your hard work. Soon enough, your own highlight reel will be more than enough, and it will all be a result of your focus on the behind the scenes.

Sam Griffiths Leads, Buck Davidson Just Outside of Tattersalls CCI3* Top 20

By on May 28, 2015 1:30 pm -
Tattersalls CCI3* leaders Sam Griffiths and Favorit Z. Photo by Libby Law Photography. Tattersalls CCI3* leaders Sam Griffiths and Favorit Z. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

It was a stiff day of competition in the CCI3* at Tattersalls in Ireland today. North American riders are represented in nearly every division this weekend, and Buck Davidson with Carl and Cassie Segal and Sherrie Martin’s Copper Beach represents the U.S. in the CCI3*.

Sam Griffiths and Favorit Z will take the lead in the CCI3* after the dressage, scoring a 36.1. Favorit Z is a 10-year-old Zangersheide gelding owned by Sam as well as Sue Brendish. Favorit Z achieved his personal best FEI dressage score today and was one of just two horses to crack into the 30s.

The next few positions on the board belong to British riders, with Flora Harris and Bayano scoring a 37.4 for second and Nick Gauntlett and Crown Talisman in third on a 41.3.

Crown Talisman, as you may recall, was sold to Nick Gauntlett after campaigning to the three-star level with U.S. rider Doug Payne. This is the first CCI3* competition for Nick and “Tali”, who most recently completed the CIC3* at Belton.

Buck Davidson and Copper Beach. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

Buck Davidson and Copper Beach. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

Buck Davidson and Copper Beach had a nice, consistent test. A bobble in one of the flying changes cost them some marks, but this was a very nice debut for this horse in his first overseas start. Buck and Sean scored a 50.1 to sit just outside of the top 20 going into cross country.

This is Buck’s first time competing in Ireland, and it’s also the first trip to an Irish event for the Segals. Sherrie Martin is also supporting her daughter, Caroline, who is prepping for Bramham in the CIC3* with Quantum Solace.

U.S. coach David O'Connor is all smiles. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

U.S. coach David O’Connor is all smiles. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

The remainder of the North American riders will compete tomorrow in the dressage. You can read more background information on the North Americans at Tattersalls this weekend here.

As always, we’d like to thank Niamh Flynn of the Tattersalls press team, Libby Law Photography and the Eventing Consultant himself Diarm Byrne of EquiRatings for giving us behind the scenes access this weekend at #Tatts2015. Stay tuned from much more from Ireland.

Tattersalls Links: Website, Entries, Ride Times, Live Scores, Schedule, Live Stream, @Tatts2015

Jumper Rider Ali Boone Acquires the Ride on Otis Barbotiere

By on May 28, 2015 9:00 am -
Boyd Martin and Otis Barbotiere at Luhmühlen. Photo by Jenni Autry. Boyd Martin and Otis Barbotiere at Luhmühlen. Photo by Jenni Autry.

After sending Otis Barbotiere to Florida earlier this year to be tried as a jumper mount, Boyd Martin confirmed that Ali Boone, a young jumper rider from Kentucky, has acquired the ride on his London Olympic mount. The news comes several months after Trading Aces, another of Boyd’s four-star mounts, was sold as an equitation horse to young rider Alexandra Pielet.

Otis, a 13-year-old Selle Francais gelding owned by the Otis Barbotiere Syndicate, most recently competed with Boyd at Luhmühlen CCI4* last year, where they finished 15th. After that competition, Boyd and his syndicate members made the decision to seek a new home for Otis, as they felt that upper level eventing was not ideal for his longterm soundness.

“He still loves competing, and he’s a high energy horse that likes to be in on the action,” Boyd said. “We made plans to redirect his career. We originally paired him with Lauren Hough down in Florida, who would take him and show him in some jumper classes.”

Lauren then searched for a rider she thought would be a good match for Otis in a jumper career. “Lauren wouldn’t let him go to just anyone,” Boyd said. “She did a wonderful job and found him an excellent rider in Ali Boone, who takes excellent care of her horses.”

With Otis’ longterm soundness in mind, Boyd and Lauren wanted to find a rider who competes on a lighter schedule. “We didn’t want someone who would use him up too much — Ali shows him maybe twice a month. She wintered in Palm Beach and will spend some time in Kentucky before heading up to Calgary to compete at Spruce Meadows,” Boyd said.

Otis, who is by Quidam de Revel out of Java Barbotiere, by Veneur de Baugy, is well bred to be a pure show jumper, and he began his competition career as a jumper in France before coming over to the U.S. to event with Boyd.

Boyd said he is happy to see his horses move on to homes where they can thrive. He’s grateful to the Otis Barbotiere Syndicate members who have provided their support, and he hopes that eventually his next “needle in a haystack horse” will come along as his next eventing superstar.

“Now that two of my big syndicated horses have gone on to other careers, I’m not necessarily actively looking, but special horses come along once in a blue moon. I am hopeful that when the next special horse comes around, the syndicate members will be ready to have another go,” Boyd said.

“Otis really completed a dream of mine to compete at the Olympics. It’s something I’ll always be indebted to him for. I can proudly call myself an Olympian, and I will never forget riding around Greenwich Park — a very testing course — and he showed wonderful grit and determination. He tries so hard, and it’s my duty to make sure he’s looked after for the rest of his life.”

We wish Otis the best of luck with his new rider, and we’ll be looking for updates from Spruce Meadows soon!

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: On Board with Ingrid Klimke + Data Analysis

By on May 27, 2015 5:00 pm -

We have begun excitedly refreshing YouTube when we hear that Ingrid Klimke was out competing over a weekend, as her helmet cams with SAP Analysis have been a huge hit for fans all over the world. SAP Equestrian Analytics has been able to sync Ingrid’s helmet cam to provide up to the second data on speed as well as her position on course.

Ingrid competed FRH Escada JS in the CIC3* at Wiesbaden this past weekend, finishing in fourth on a final score of 46.7. If you missed any of the recap from this German event, you can catch up on Maren Engelhardt’s report here.

No more guesswork. No more worries. 

With hundreds of different supplements on the market today, trying to pick the right one for your horse can be frustrating and worrisome. Let your veterinarian and Wiser Concepts® supplements ease the uncertainty. As a team, you and your vet will choose the Wiser Concepts supplement that best meets your horse’s needs. 

Wiser Concepts supplements are available only through your veterinarian. Learn more at KPPvet.com.

Stefanie Brand Released from Hospital After Rotational Fall

By on May 27, 2015 2:00 pm -
Stefanie Brand and Claudius. Photo via Stefanie on Facebook. Stefanie Brand and Claudius. Photo via Stefanie on Facebook.

We’re pleased to report that Stefanie Brand was released from the hospital in Atlanta last week after undergoing surgery to place a plate on her broken collarbone sustained after a rotational fall at CHC International earlier this month. After spending the night in Atlanta, Stefanie was on a plane the next day to return to her home country of Guatemala to begin physical therapy treatments.

“She’s feeling much better now that she is out of the hospital and seeing the real world again,” family friend and groom Barry Tomason said. “She’s of course itching to get back on her horse, but she’s taking it one day at a time at this point.”

Stefanie’s horse, Claudius, was uninjured in the fall and has traveled to Canada with the rest of the Guatemalan team. Claudius will continue his preparations for Toronto with Peter Gray, although at this point Stefanie’s plan of running at Bromont is no more.

“Peter will continue to ride the horse and keep him sharp,” Barry said. “At this point, she is not running Bromont. We aren’t sure yet if someone will ride him and do the dressage, but she will not be riding.”

As it stands now, Stefanie still would like to represent Guatemala at the Pan American Games in July, but naturally her recovery will be the top priority as she looks ahead to the rest of the summer.

We will continue to provide updates on Stefanie and her progress as it becomes available. In the meantime, we’re relieved to hear that she is well on her way to returning to the saddle and that Claudius was able to walk away from the fall unscathed.

Kristi Nunnink Announces R-Star’s Venture Into Jumper Ring

By on May 27, 2015 12:00 pm -
Kristi Nunnink and R-Star. Photo by Samantha Clark. Kristi Nunnink and R-Star. Photo by Samantha Clark.

It’s been a rollercoaster of a week for Kristi Nunnink, who announced the heartbreaking news on her Facebook page that her talented former four-star mare R-Star lost her foal by Royaldik just before the due date. Fortunately, the prognosis for “Rosie” is good, and the mare should make a full recovery.

“We still aren’t exactly sure what happened to the foal,” Kristi said. “I had dropped Rosie off at the vet clinic on my way to a show over the weekend, because she was due while I was gone. I’m very thankful that I did that, because I’m afraid we would have lost her as well if the vet wasn’t right there.”

The first sign of trouble came on Thursday evening, when the vet called and told Kristi that the foal’s vital signs were “slowing down.” Kristi instructed the vets to do whatever they could to save her beloved mare. “It was very nerve wracking,” she said. “I wanted that baby, but I love that mare more than anything, and so I told them to do everything they could to keep her alive.”

Rosie ultimately never went into labor, and the foal died in utero. The 14-year-old Holsteiner mare remained under veterinary care for the next few days while her own vital signs returned to normal, and she was released to Kristi’s care this week.

Now, Kristi has begun planning to bring the mare back into work. While a heart condition discovered before Rolex last year will prevent R-Star from returning to her career as an event horse, she’s been cleared to continue competing as either a pure dressage or a pure show jumping mount.

“Her heart could handle everything but the high cardiac activity for a prolonged amount of time,” Kristi said. “I’ve been given the green light from the vets to see what she wants to do in the jumper ring.”

R-Star was never one to have much trouble in the show jumping phase during her eventing career, so Kristi has not done much in the jumper ring with her. “I’ve done up to Fourth Level dressage with her to help her settle, but she’s always been so good with the show jumping I never felt she needed the extra time,” she said. “But I grew up doing hunters and jumpers, so it will be great to be able to make a return to that.”

Kristi is confident that Rosie will make a return to full work soon, as she’s been ridden periodically since her retirement from eventing. “She was unhappy sitting around, and she hated seeing us leave for shows,” she said. “So we eventually put shoes on her, and I had my girls start riding her here and there, just so she felt she was doing something. Once she got pregnant, she seemed much more content.”

Despite the loss of her foal, Kristi reports that Rosie is in good spirits. The mare is definitely purpose bred for dressage or show jumping (by Riverman out of Marisol, by Corofino I), so it looks like she should be right at home in the jumper ring.

“She’s quite good at getting to the base and jumping around and not up,” Kristi said. “I’ve been told on multiple occasions that she had the talent to either be a Grand Prix dressage horse or a Grand Prix show jumper, so we’ll just see what she wants to do. I don’t think I’ve even tapped into her scope. The big question is: How high can she go without me falling off?”

Kristi hasn’t left her dream of breeding R-Star behind just yet, but she does not want to put the mare through another pregnancy at this time. “I do have some very nice semen frozen still,” she said with a laugh, “so not this year, but maybe next year we may look at doing some embryo transfers.”

“I’m really looking forward to riding her — I’ve missed her!” she continued. “I’m not in a hurry to get to a jumper show; I know I will spend a lot of time doing flatwork to get her stronger, and when she feels really good, we will find a show to go to.”

We wish Kristi and R-Star the best of luck in their new adventure together and send our condolences for what surely would have been a lovely foal. We’ll keep you updated on Rosie’s new foray into the jumper world as we learn more.

Go Rosie.

Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: Eventers Tackle Devon Hunt Night

By on May 26, 2015 5:00 pm -

Devon Hunt Night is a popular night for those attending and competing at the popular Pennsylvania hunter/jumper show. It seems that each year, a team of eventers tackles the hunter ring on Hunt Night. Last year, we profiled Justine Dutton’s Sport Ponies UK team, who placed second out of 16 teams.

This year, Sara Gartland, Samantha Fillman, and Brooke Holloway decided to swap their neck straps and monoflap saddles for martingales and hunter pads for a chance to compete at Devon.

Sara and As You Wish WF, Samantha and Adonis, and Brooke and Ace On the River (cool name!) placed fourth out of 18 hunt teams Saturday night — way to go, ladies!

Sara and As You Wish WF compete in Training and Prelim level events, Adonis and Sam compete in Novice and Training level events, and Ace on the River and Brooke are converts from the jumper ring (she qualified at Devon for the jumpers a few years ago) and currently compete at Beginner Novice and Novice level events.

Congratulations to another event team who showed the hunters how it’s done at Devon! Thanks to Julie Brooks Rudisill for providing video of this team’s round.

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: Ze Terminator Helmet Cam

By on May 25, 2015 5:00 pm -

Michael also competed Marbach CIC3* winner Halunke FBW, who is also entered at Luhmühlen next month, in the CIC3* at Pfingstturnier in Germany this weekend, placing second on a score of 42.1. He brought a string of 9 horses with him to Pfingstturnier, competing in show jumping and eventing — because why just win in one discipline when you can achieve total world domination in every other as well?

The 10-year-old Württemberg gelding named Sportsmann S was a winner in the CSI4* 1.45m class as well, proving that Michael wasn’t kidding when he said at Rolex that he has many horses that competing in pure show jumping and dressage. He’s truly an example of being a master of his craft. We salute you, Mr. Jung!

 

 

Uncle George Returning to Windurra This Week

By on May 25, 2015 1:00 pm -
He's coming... He's coming...

George Morris is returning to Boyd and Silva Martin’s Windurra USA in Cochranville, PA this week to wreak havoc educate a hefty line-up including Boyd Martin, Phillip Dutton, Waylon Roberts, and more.

If you’re curious on what George has had to say to eventers in the past, you can read our recap on a previous Windurra clinic here.

Pearls of wisdom from the master.

Pearls of wisdom from the master.

Auditors are welcome for the clinic, which will be held Tuesday and Wednesday this week. Auditing passes are $60 per day. If you’re in the area, this is a great opportunity to and observe how George’s philosophies translate to how he instructs event riders.

It’s always great to see riders who seek out opportunities for continuing education, and while riding with George may require some mental courage, we’re firm believers that he’s one of the best authorities on proper horsemanship in the business.

George meme 2

Want some more George-isms in meme form? Never fear, we’ve got you covered. Click here for many more top quotes from George, and stay tuned for more from this week’s clinic!

Here are the ride times for Tuesday, May 26:

Boyd Martin
Molly Rosin
Caitlin Silliman
Jenny Caras
Jess Brumfield
Kate Hicks
Boyd Martin
Matt Brown
Phillip Dutton
Lauren Balcomb
Waylon Roberts
Mark Beecher
Erin Sylvester
Amy Ruth
Erika Nessler
Bradly Champagne
Mike Pendleton
Emily Smith
Jess Brumfield

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By on May 24, 2015 3:00 pm -

With school out for the summer and all of us eagerly planning for longer daylight hours at the barn, it’s a great time to take on a new project. If you’re not sure where to start with your OTTB search, never fear as we’re here to bring you our favorite listings of the week to provide some inspiration!

Photo via CANTER Ohio.

Photo via CANTER Ohio.

Our first listing this week is the very handsome Mar Bravo, who is currently listed with CANTER Ohio. We featured this guy’s listing in December, and we can’t believe he is still available! Mar Bravo (Marciano – Jazz Gal, by Lord Avie) is a 2008 gelding who has raced 41 times and is said to be a nice tempered gelding who is sound but does have some stiffness in his back end that he works out of. He’s ready to move on to his new career, and with looks like that he will definitely turn some heads!

Mar Bravo on CANTER Ohio

Photo via CANTER Illinois.

Photo via CANTER Illinois.

This lovely looking guy is a Canadian bred gelding by the name of Aish Tamid (Purim – First Light, by Salt Lake) who was foaled in 2010 and raced just four times. Aish Tamid does have a front ankle that is bothering him that will benefit from some downtime, but he’s said to have a great personality that will do well with bonding with his new owner. Aish Tamid is available through CANTER Illinois — will he be your next four legged companion?

Aish Tamid on CANTER Illinois

Photo courtesy of New Vocations.

Photo courtesy of New Vocations.

We’re loving the sweet face and unique markings on our last listing of the week, a 2008 gelding by the name of Tapaway (Tapit – Victory Road, by Ikari). Tapaway raced 16 times and hit the board five times, earning a total of $115,756. Tapit is a very in demand stallion in the racing world, and he seems to pass along a lot of athleticism and talent in his offspring. He is listed as suitable for a flatwork career, but he’s said to be quite unflappable and a hard worker under saddle.

Tapaway on New Vocations

Ashley Kehoe Takes the Next Step with Philipp Kolossa

By on May 23, 2015 1:00 pm -
Ashley Kehoe and Cinco de Mayo at Fair Hill. Photo courtesy of Photo courtesy of Tara Katherine Photography.

Ashley Kehoe and Cinco de Mayo at Fair Hill. Photo courtesy of Tara Katherine Photography.

Ashley Kehoe has always had big ambitions of training and competing in Europe, and it’s a goal she’s been working toward for several years. Now, it seems the stars are aligning for her as she looks ahead to a new position riding for renowned event horse source Philipp Kolossa in Germany. So she’s packing her bags (and one horse) and moving to Germany next month, where she’ll no doubt be exposed to some of the best education in the business.

Ashley has spent the last two years riding and working for Pollard Eventing, a position she feels has groomed her appropriately for the next step in her career. “The plan with Michael and Nathalie was to be with them for a couple years,” she explained. “I’ve wanted to go to Europe to experience their event circuit and learn from the best riders in the world.”

Originally, Ashley planned to finish 2015 with the Pollards while competing her mare, D.A. Vittoria, at the three-star level. Earlier this year, however, Ashley made the decision to move her mare into the jumper ring, where she felt the horse was better suited.

“She was bred to be a Grand Prix jumper and is already very successful at the 1.30m level. Sadly, dressage was always a challenge for her. Unfortunately, our sport is so competitive now, mediocre dressage isn’t good enough anymore.”

With her upper-level competition plans on hold, Ashley knew the timing was right to begin seriously planning her trip to Europe. She has Jennie Brannigan, among many others, to thank for this new opportunity with Philipp, who is well-known for finding and producing top-tier event horses. Seeking out horses with a higher percentage of Thoroughbred blood, Philipp has proven time and time again that he has the eye for serious upper-level talent.

10704205_832563516788373_582133783987413231_o

Ashley Kehoe and D.A. Vittoria at Fair Hill. Photo courtesy of Tara Katherine Photography.

“Jennie told me that if she had gone and worked in Europe before going out on her own that she would have worked for Philipp,” Ashley said. “She called him and introduced us. I spent a day with him while I was in Europe for a week. Everything just fell into place, and I will be riding and competing young horses for him. He has sold a lot of horses to four-star riders that he’s started in his program. His goal is really to find the new superstar event horse.”

Ashley is no stranger to competing young horses, having competed for both Debbie Adams and Sharon White before joining the Pollards. “I was responsible for working with the young horses and sales horses at Pollard Eventing, so with the new skills I have learned from Michael and Nathalie, I feel even more confident going to Europe,” she said. “I also have the O’Connors to thank; I was lucky enough to train with them for six years as a young rider.”

Aside from the pure horse handling skills, Ashley is also leaving Florida more fit than she’s ever been thanks to mandatory team Crossfit outings three days a week. “Michael believes that his fitness has been a huge part of his success, and he wanted to share it with everyone on the team,” she explained. “I appreciate him sharing that aspect of strength training with me. I do think it has made me ride that much better.”

As far as her riding is concerned, Ashley has had a great deal of experience competing through the upper levels and has also had the chance to continually hone her skills at home. “Michael and Nathalie are both masters in their own right, and I’m really grateful for everything they have taught me, especially on the flat,” she said. “They train their horses to the highest standard, and you just learn to expect that from yourself and your horses.”

Ashley will be taking her younger horse, Cinco de Mayo, to Germany, looking to continue competing him up the levels while she is there. D.A. Vittoria will be staying behind to campaign and eventually be sold under Silvio Mazzoni.

Ashley is unsure of how long she will stay. Right now she is just grateful for the opportunity to focus on working with one of the best… If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em!

Auf Wiedersehen, Ashley! We wish you and Cinco the best of luck in all of your endeavors overseas.

Friday Video from World Equestrian Brands: Watch Trading Aces at the Devon Horse Show

By on May 22, 2015 5:00 pm -

Since Trading Aces was sold to be an equitation horse earlier this year, he’s been a busy guy. New rider Alexandra Pielet showed him at WEF in several Maclay, USEF Talent Search, and jumper clases. The pair earned their first win together in a Washington International Horse Show Equitation division, where they placed third overall after completing a class in each ring.

Screenshot via Boyd Martin on Facebook.

Screenshot via Boyd Martin on Facebook.

Alexandra and Trading Aces also have top placings in recent USEF Hunt Seat Medal classes, and this week they are competing at Devon. Thanks to EqSportsNet, who shared a video of Alexandra and Trading Aces competing in the jumper phase of the Washington International Horse Show Talent Search, we can now get a glimpse of Trading Aces in his new career.

We wonder if she kept his barn name as Oscar or if she changed it. Nonetheless, we’re excited to see that “Oscar” seems to be thriving with his new young rider, and we wish him and Alexandra all the best.

To view more from the Devon Horse Show, visit EqSportsNet here.

 

Star Studded Line-up Promised at Luhmühlen CCI4*

By on May 22, 2015 1:00 pm -
Tim Price and Wesko. Photo by Jenni Autry. Tim Price and Wesko. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The spring season’s next CCI4* is quickly approaching as entries closed this week for Luhmühlen in Germany. We’ll have two American riders representing this year: Libby Head with Sir Rockstar and Clark Montgomery with Loughan Glen, plus Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master making their triumphant return to the four-star level for Team Canada.

A glance at the list of entries is enough to make us impatient to see the action get underway, and an updated cross country course from designer Capt. Mark Phillips will give riders a new feel from years past.

While entries will certainly withdraw before the ride times go up, there is plenty of star power on display at the moment. Newly crowned Rolex Kentucky champion Michael Jung is, naturally, entered, this time with Halunke FBW. An 11-year-old Württemberg gelding, Halunke FBW began his career with Michael in 2011. This will be his first CCI4* start, but he’s coming off a win in the CIC3* at Marbach in May. Plus, he’s got Michael Jung in the irons — enough said.

Michael’s Rolex entries, La Biosthetique Sam and fischerRocana FST are also on the list, however we can safely presume that this entry was a back-up in case he needed to re-route from Kentucky. Don’t tell Sam and Rocana that, though, I’m sure they could easily go around again.

With this being Germany’s home CCI4*, there are plenty of entries on the list from the host country. Ingrid Klimke has two entries: Zilia D and FRH Escada JS, and other German heavy hitters such as Andreas Dibowski, Andreas Ostholt and Dirk Schrade will also be riding.

In another highlight of the weekend, Andreas Dibowski’s veteran partner, FRH Butts Leon, will be retired in a special ceremony during this year’s event.

Photo courtesy of Thomas Ix.

Photo courtesy of Thomas Ix.

As for the American contingent, Libby Head will be contesting her second CCI4* with her OTTB gelding, Sir Rockstar. Libby won the Essex Grant at the 2014 USEA Annual Meeting, the funds for which she will be using to offset some of the cost of competing overseas. Libby had attempted to travel abroad last year, but she was unable to meet her fundraising goal to make the trip possible. This year, however, she’s flying high and hopes to have a competitive weekend in Germany.

Clark Montgomery received a USEF Land Rover Competition Grant to compete with Loughan Glen this year. This will be Glen’s first CCI4* since he won the dressage at Badminton in 2014 and subsequently retired on the no-mercy cross country course. Look for this pair to be at or very near the top of the pack after the first phase of competition.

Along with the rest of the star-studded lineup, 2014 winner Tim Price is also entered for New Zealand, fresh off of a second place finish at his first Rolex with Wesko and a 15th place finish at Badminton with Ringwood Sky Boy. He’ll be riding the 9-year-old Bango in his CCI4* debut after most recently completing the CIC3* at Belton in April.

Capt. Mark Phillips recently spoke in a press release about his vision for this year’s course. “It is a completely new approach,” he said. “The DHL Water Complex doesn’t come up so early in the course, giving the horses and riders a better chance to warm up and get into the rhythm. Furthermore, we have increased the use of frangible devices approved by the FEI and are going to use the English Frangible Pin and the Swedish MIM systems. If a system triggers, it will be fined with eleven penalty points.

“Essentially, I think the penalizing makes sense – for the most important safety aspect is the riders’ respect for the jumps. Therefore we are always trying to find the balance between forgiving fences and tasks that are taken seriously by the riders.”

We’re excited to see how this year’s Luhmühlen shakes out, and we’ll have Wylie on the ground for EN to bring us all of the up to date action. Stay tuned for much more from Germany, as the action kicks off on June 18.

Luhmühlen: [Website] [Entry List]

Jessica Phoenix Released from Hospital

By on May 22, 2015 10:25 am -
Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance. Photo by Jenni Autry.

We’ve had some great news from the Phoenix camp this week, as Jessica Phoenix has been released from the hospital and is now recovering at home. She was transported from the hospital where she initially received treatment in New Jersey to one closer to home in Canada last week, and now she is one step closer to making her return to the saddle.

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

Despite it all, Jessica is still in good spirits and plans to return to the saddle at the beginning of next month. We don’t call her #Superwoman for nothing, folks.

“It’s so good to be home!” Jessie said today. “Thank you to everyone for their support throughout these last couple of weeks. It truly does take an incredible team of people including our family, barn staff, owners, sponsors and supporters. It truly is overwhelming to have this much support and I can’t thank everyone enough for their help and support. I’m very much looking forward to getting back in the saddle!”

We wish Jessie all the best as she continues to recover, and we know she’ll be in the saddle as soon as (super)humanly possible. In the meantime, please continue to keep her in your thoughts, and we will provide more updates as they become available.

#teamjessica

[Jessica Phoenix Transported Back to Canada]

[Jessica Phoenix Moved Out of ICU]

[Jessica Phoenix Injury Update After Fall at Jersey Fresh]

USEF Announces Spring/Summer Land Rover Competition Grants

By on May 21, 2015 5:13 pm -
Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Jenni Autry. Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Hot on the heels of last night’s announcement of the Pan American Games team and alternates, the USEF has also released the recipients of Land Rover Competition Grants for this spring and summer. Two grants have been given out for the upcoming Bramham CCI3* and Luhmühlen CCI4*:

Equi-Trek Bramham International Horse Trials – June 11-14

Lauren Kieffer and Team Rebbeca, LLC’s Veronica
Veronica is a 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare

Luhmühlen CCI4* Presented by DHL – June 18-21

Clark Montgomery and Jessica Montgomery, Kathryn Kraft, and Holly and William Becker’s Loughan Glen
Loughan Glen is a 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding

Kurt Martin and Anna Bella originally received a grant to compete at Bramham, but have since withdrawn from the competition. Libby Head will also be competing at Luhmühlen thanks to her receipt of the Essex Award at the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention last year.

Congratulations to this round of grant recipients as they prepare to pack their bags to hit the European circuit. We’ll bring you more updates from the traveling pairs as their journeys begin, so stay tuned for much more.

Mike Etherington-Smith Named New CIC3* Course Designer for Red Hills

By on May 21, 2015 3:00 pm -
Lauren Kieffer and Czechmate. Photo by Jenni Autry. Lauren Kieffer and Czechmate. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Red Hills International, a popular destination for eventers prepping for Rolex or stepping up a level, announced today that a new cross country course design team has been put in place in preparation for 2016 and beyond.

“Etherington-Smith’s international experience at the highest levels of the sport, combined with O’Connor’s 17 years of experience competing and coaching at Red Hills creates a true dream team,” Marvin Mayer, co-organizer of Red Hills, said in a press release. “Needless to say, Red Hills is extremely proud to have two of the sport’s premier professionals as part of our family.”

Mike Etherington-Smith will take the reins of the CIC3* course design from Hugh Lochore, and David O’Connor will be collaborating for the CIC2* and CIC* courses. Mike has stepped up his involvement in course design this year and is renowned for his design of the courses at both the 2000 and 2008 Olympics as well as the World Equestrian Games in 2010.

A big priority for the new design team is to expand the galloping lanes in an effort to give the competitors more time out in the open while on course.

Another priority will be to improve the footing at the venue, and the team has already been hard at work preparing the footing for next spring. The footing has had lime added and has been added and had top dressing and seed drilling, all of which have already begun to yield positive changes.

Additionally, fiber will be added to the crushed stone base in the arenas with the intent being to give the horses more cushion while competed on the surface.

We’re excited to see these new improvements, as well as the new vision in the cross country courses brought about by Mike Etherington-Smith and David O’Connor. We’ll see you in Tallahassee next spring!

For more information, visit the Red Hills website or Facebook page.

57 Pairs Set to Contest Popular Woodside Preliminary Challenge

By on May 21, 2015 1:00 pm -
Frankie Thieriot and Chatwin. Photo courtesy of Sherry Stewart. Frankie Thieriot and Chatwin. Photo courtesy of Sherry Stewart.

The ever-popular Preliminary Challenge at Woodside is set to commence this weekend, and 57 pairs across two divisions (Rider and Horse) will compete for $15,000 in prize money and an additional $15,000 in prizes. This is the seventh running of this event, which has attracted professionals and amateurs alike since its inception.

The Preliminary Challenge will run dressage on Friday, cross country Saturday morning, and will conclude with show jumping in the atmospheric Grand Prix Arena on Saturday evening. A heated ringside tent will offer a Gala Dinner for fans, friends, and family, and tickets to the tent — which have sold out each year — are available here. Reserved seating and dinner is $60 per person or $550 for a table of 10. Proceeds from the Gala Dinner will benefit construction of the cross-country course at the Horse Park at Woodside.

“I think the format we’ve created for the Woodside Preliminary Challenge – the evening show jumping competition with the awards right afterward and the catered dinner – has become something truly special over the last six years, ” said event organizer Robert Kellerhouse in a recent press release. “The Preliminary Challenge has become a competition that the riders aim for every year, and it’s become an event that people in the Woodside area and people riding in the other divisions at Woodside look forward to watching every year.”

Riders will have a chance to take a crack at new course designer Ian Stark’s creation on Saturday, which is an exciting development for this event. The course promises to be challenging yet fair, and we are looking forward to seeing how it rides over the weekend.

As far as qualifications are concerned, competing horses in the Horse division may not have competed above Intermediate from 2008-2015, while the riders may be of any experience level. For the Rider division, the riders may not have competed above Intermediate between 2008 and 2015. In other to achieve qualification for the Preliminary Challenge, horses and riders must have also earned two qualifying scores as a pair at Prelim.

CWD, Devoucoux, Equine Insurance of California and Professional’s Choice are the Presenting Sponsors of the 2015 Event At Woodside. Sunsprite Warmbloods is the Gold Medal Sponsor.

The Silver Medal Sponsors are: JRD Saddles, SmartPak and Voltaire Design.

The Bronze Medal Sponsors are: Auburn Laboratories Inc., Elk Grove Milling, Finish Line Horse Products, Geranium Street Floral, Ice Horse, the Professional Riders Organization, Ride On Video, and Shires Equestrian Products.

Friend Sponsors are: American Medical Response, California Retirement Management Account – funding aftercare for OTTBs, Eventing Training Online, Revitavet Therapeutic Systems, Steinbeck Country Equine Clinic and Triple Crown Nutrition.

Tickets for cross country day ($10/person) as well as Saturday evening’s Gala Dinner can be found here. We’ll be bringing you recaps from the Preliminary Challenge all weekend, so stay tuned for much more from Woodside.

Go Eventing!

The Spring Event at Woodside: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

USEF Names Team and Alternate Members for Pan American Games

By on May 20, 2015 5:21 pm -
Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo by Jenni Autry. Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The moment we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived: the USEF has just named the team members and alternates for the 2015 Pan American Games, to be held in July in Toronto.

With Team USA’s Olympic qualifications on the line for 2016, the selectors had a job envied by none in naming this team on which many hopes will be pinned. To that end, here are your 2015 Pan American team members for the United States:

Phillip Dutton and Tom Tierney and Simon Roosevelt’s Fernhill Cubalawn or Tom Tierney and Annie Jones’ Fernhill Fugitive
Fernhill Cubalawn is a 2003 Holsteiner gelding 
Fernhill Fugitive is a 2005 Irish Sport Horse gelding

Lauren Kieffer and Marie Le Menestrel’s Meadowbrook’s Scarlett
Meadowbrook’s Scarlett is a 2007 Thoroughbred cross mare 

Marilyn Little and Raylyn Farm Inc. and Phoebe and Michael Manders’ RF Scandalous
RF Scandalous is a 2005 Oldenburg mare

Boyd Martin and the Pancho Villa Syndicate’s Pancho Villa
Pancho Villa is a 2003 Selle Francais gelding

The alternates are as follows:

Jennie Brannigan and Nina Gardner’s Cambalda
Cambalda is a 2002 Thoroughbred cross gelding

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

Will Faudree and Jennifer Mosing and Sterling Silver Stables’ Pfun
Pfun is a 2007 Irish Sport Horse gelding

Lauren Kieffer and Jacqueline Mars’ Vermiculus
Vermiculus is a 2007 Anglo-Arabian gelding

Michael Pollard and Carl, Nicolas and Stanislas Bouckaert’s Cyrano Z
Cyrano is a 2001 Zangersheide gelding

Tamie Smith and Alex Ahearn’s Mai Baum
Mai Baum is a 2006 German Sport Horse gelding

As per the usual with big announcements such as these, there are plenty of surprises as well as no-brainers on the roster. Final team veterinary evaluations were performed on all horses this week, which certainly plays into the decision making process for any team scenario.

We’ll have an in-depth analysis of the Pan Am team coming your way shortly, so keep it locked right here for all of the latest Pan Ams coverage. In the meantime, here’s a rare sighting of David O’Connor as he names the team he’ll be taking to Toronto with him.

Go Team USA.