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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

Ocala International CCI* Cross Country Course Preview and Commentary

By Sally Spickard on Apr 11, 2015 9:03 am -

Thanks to Siobhain O’Connor, who is competing in the CCI* at Ocala this weekend with Faux Indigo. This pair is currently in 10th place as they look ahead to cross country, and Siobhain generously shared her course walk photos and commentary for how she plans to ride with us.

The questions begin early on in the course, not in the form of combinations but in that riders will be jumping towards the show jumping ring and stabling. Riders will need to be sure their horses are focused on the task at hand and not wishing they were back in their stalls munching on hay.

Photo courtesy of Siobhain O’Connor.

The first water complex comes early in the course at fence 6AB, and Siobhain says it is not to be taken lightly. “Even though we don’t land in water we need a strong bold jump in to set the tone for the course. The out is a very vertical gate with a safety pin it,” she said.

Photo courtesy of Siobhain O’Connor.

The next tricky combination comes at fence 10ABC, the coffin complex. The striding is a two to a three and Siobhain thinks it will ride nicely if the rider is bold and forward, which at this point they definitely should be.

Photo courtesy of Siobhain O’Connor.

The next serious question comes up quick as well at 12 and 13. “You need to make sure you are square to the house with enough power but not speed to jump the cabin on the hill,” Siobhain said. “Then you land, dropping into the hollow, and run up to another skinny hedge. And then bend again to another skinny hedge.”

Photo courtesy of Siobhain O’Connor.

Finally, riders will face another technical question at the second and final water complex at 16 and 17. “It’s then a nice snug turn (after 15) to the water, where I will have to give Indigo a reminder tap about how much I love him when he jumps into water. It’s a bold two strides to a jump in the water then a skinny hedge out.”

As you may have noticed, a few of these jumps will also be used on the CCI2* course. Please enjoy the full gallery of the CCI* fences below, and many thanks to Siobhain O’Connor for sharing her thoughts and photos! Good luck to all competitors!

Ocala International: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Schedule, Live Scores, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage

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Friday Videos from World Equestrian Brands: Buck Davidson’s Busy Day at Ocala

By Sally Spickard on Apr 10, 2015 6:00 pm -

World Equestrian Brands rider Buck Davidson had a busy day in the dressage ring today at the Ocala International Festival of Eventing, and The Horse Pesterer was on hand to capture his rides for us to enjoy this evening. Videos are still being uploaded, so be sure to check out The Horse Pesterer’s YouTube channel for the latest uploads.

In the meantime, please enjoy these videos of Buck’s CCI* ride, Rocky Car, who earned a 41.4 to sit in 7th place going into cross country tomorrow and of an Intermediate ride, Carlevo. We’ll add more videos of Buck’s rides as they become available, so stay tuned for more from Ocala! Many thanks, as always, to The Horse Pesterer for the great videos.

Ocala International: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Schedule, Live Scores, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage

Kim Severson Retains Ocala CCI2* Lead, Marilyn Little Slides Into CCI* Lead

By Sally Spickard on Apr 10, 2015 5:00 pm -

Marilyn Little and RF West Indie at Galway Downs. Photo by Jenni Autry.

No one was quite able to catch Kim Severson and Cooley Cross Border in the CCI2* at the Ocala International Festival of Eventing today, and Kim will hold her lead on a score of 30.9 going into tomorrow’s cross country.

Several heavy hitters threw down in the dressage ring today, and while Kim was the only rider to crack into the 30s (and almost the 20s!), several very competitive scores were recorded from today’s rides. Marilyn Little and RF West Indie recorded the best score of the day two riders, earning a 40.6 to sit in fourth position overnight.

Owned by Raylyn Farms, RF West Indie is competing in her second CCI2* — she won her first outing at the level at Galway Downs last fall after re-routing there from Fair Hill.

Another Marilyn Little ride, RF Scandalous is also in very close range in fourth place on a score of 41.4. RF Scandalous is hot off of three back to back CIC2* wins already this season — this mare is certainly in rip roaring form to be tackling her first CCI2*.

In a tie for sixth place on a dressage score of 42.5 are Michael Pollard and Tsetserleg as well as Buck Davidson and Quasar. Tsetserleg is making his CCI2* debut after spending the majority of 2014 honing his skills at the Preliminary level. The 8-year-old Trakehner gelding owned by Christine Turner most recently finished 19th in the CIC2* at Carolina International, and he’s knocked quite a bit off of that dressage score for a great start to this weekend.

Ann Clements’ Quasar, who is 8 years old, finished sixth in the CCI2* at Fair Hill in 2014 for a solid debut at the CCI2* level. The Oldenburg gelding also competed at Carolina International in March, finishing 15th in the CIC2* as his final prep for this weekend.

Just 12.8 penalties separate the top 10, and there are many other pairs just knocking on the door and waiting for their chance to strike the top placings as the cross country approaches. Our friends at Whats Up Media will be providing a live stream of the cross country beginning at 9:50 a.m. EST tomorrow. Be sure to tune in by visiting this link.

Marilyn Little took the reins in the CCI* aboard RF Overdressed to lead the division on a score of 37.0 going into cross country. Philippa Humphreys — who would have held the lead save a pesky error for wearing her boots in her test! — will maintain excellent position in second place on her modified score of 37.8.

RF Overdressed, an 8-year-old Hanoverian gelding, previously competed at the CIC* and CCI* level, winning four times, with German rider Julia Krajewski before coming to the U.S. This is his first CCI* with Marilyn in the irons, and these two are on the right track to having a successful weekend in Ocala.

Rounding out the top three in the CCI* are junior rider Makenna Rold and Fernhill Imperial. This is Makenna’s first CCI* with Fernhill Imperial, an 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse. These two completed the CIC* at Carolina International last month after capturing five top-10 finishes at the Preliminary level to begin their 2015 season.

In the Advanced Combined Test, Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch put the finishing touches on their dressage and show jumping in their final prep for Kentucky. This veteran pair took home the blue on a score of 40.0 with no rails added to their dressage score.

Michael Pollard and Ballingowan Pizazz accumulated four jumping penalties in the show jumping to move down to second place overall on a score of 42.0, followed by Rolex Rookie Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair, who added just one time penalty on the show jumping course today.

Most of the pairs contesting the CT are headed for Kentucky next, so they’ll be glad to have had that extra practice in the books as they make their final preparations for the big R in a couple weeks.

While overnight leaders Lauren Kieffer and Veronica just rode the dressage, you can get a peek at their lovely test below — the same test they will be riding in Kentucky!

Ellie MacPhail and RF Eloquence also elected to just ride the dressage — these pairs likely just wanted the extra practice on the test they will ride at Rolex. Many thanks to Laine Ashker for sending in a photo of the score sheet from the CT!

Be sure to click here to check out video uploads from The Horse Pesterer. Stay tuned for much more from Ocala!

Ocala International: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Schedule, Live Scores, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By Sally Spickard on Apr 10, 2015 1:00 pm -

OTTBs are among the most prominently represented breed in the eventing world. Each day, hundreds of ex-racehorses find themselves at the end of their racing career and in need of a new home. Luckily, organizations such as CANTER, New Vocations, Recycled Racehorses, and many more are always on alert for new horses that are ready for second careers. Each week, we'll be bringing you a few OTTB ads that caught our eye. Keep an eye out here for your next eventing superstar!

Horse shopping never gets old, does it? Even when you’ve got a brand new horse sitting in your barn, the window shopping instinct is still overpowering. I get the feeling that if the people behind the show Hoarders would get wind of our horse buying problems, we may have a new television series on our hands.

Of course, the most important thing about giving a horse a new home is that you have the means to take care of it. Leslie Wylie posted this wonderfully sentimental article about the responsibilities that lie within our committments to our horses. It’s definitely worth a read, and is a timely reminder of how dependent these horses are on us to survive.

With that said, here is your weekly OTTB fix! Don’t forget to let us know if one of these horses ends up in your barn. Go OTTBs!

Photo via Track to Tranquility on Facebook.

Our first horse this week is a handsome 7-year-old gelding by the name of Loving Dove. Loving Dove (Mo Mon – Dove Creek, by Dove Hunt) is available through Track to Tranquility in New Jersey. Standing 16.3hh, Loving Dove has already had a new start off the track and is well on his way to becoming someone’s successful show horse. He’s been schooled on Beginner Novice questions and has three correct gaits for your consideration.

Loving Dove raced a total of 43 times, last racing in August of 2014. He won nearly $200,000 on the track, so he’s no slouch! Check out Track to Tranquility for more information on this lovely guy.

Photo via Recycled Racehorses.

Next up is this adorable girl named Call Her Kathy Too, a 16h 2007 mare available through Recycled Racehorses. Call Her Kathy Too (Omega Code – Call Her Kathy, by More Than Ready) raced just one time, so she’s perfect for those of you who are fans of lightly raced horses.

Call Her Kathy Too is said to be very sweet and quiet under saddle, which will make her a great prospect for retraining. Check out her listing on Recycled Racehorses here.

Photo via After the Races.

Sticking with our East Coast theme this week, our final horse is a very handsome gelding by the name of Strike Down who is available through After the Races in Pennsylvania. This guy is a 7-year-old who stands 17hh. Strike Down (Tenpins – Lady Fenwick, by Smoke Glacken) raced an impressive 65 times from 2010 to 2015, winning just over $200,o00.

Strike Down was checked over upon arrival at After the Races and was declared sound, and he’s had 30 days of let down time to gain some weight and just be a horse for awhile. Now he’s ready to take on his new career with his quiet attitude. Will he be the right one for you? Check out his listing on After the Races for more information.

Complete Your Rolex Outfit with Dubarry’s New Black/Brown Longford Boot

By Sally Spickard on Apr 10, 2015 11:13 am -

The stylish new Dubarry Longford boot in black and brown.

I don’t know about you, but I always have to plan my wardrobe for Rolex. Given the unpredictable weather for this time of year and the miles upon miles of walking, there are plenty of factors to keep in mind. If you’re stumped on footwear, Dubarry’s got the answer for you!

Dubarry just released a new color of their popular Longford boot — the boot is now available in black/brown. You’ll make a splash in this new color addition to the line, perfect for all of your barn and horse show needs.

Made from Dubarry’s DryFast-DrySoft™ leathers, the boot also features a Gore-Tex liner that is waterproof and breathable. The attention to detail on these boots adds a sophisticated and polished look to a functional piece of footwear.

We’re inviting you to make a splash this spring in this new boot, and we’re offering you a chance to win a pair of your own! Simply fill out the Rafflecopter widget below for your chance to win. We’ll be announcing the winner on Sunday, April 19. Thanks to our awesome sponsor, Dubarry, for partnering with us on this giveaway. Stay tuned for another exciting announcement from Dubarry as Rolex approaches!

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.

A Horse of a Different Color: Poppyfields Tristan

By Sally Spickard on Apr 9, 2015 11:30 am -

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

Katharine Stancliff and Poppyfields Tristan at FENCE. Photo courtesy of Nathan Stancliff.

After years of riding lesson horses, Katharine Stancliff found herself frustrated with the lack of progress her riding was making. Living in Illinois at the time, Katharine decided that the time had come for her to have a horse of her own, so she mentioned the idea to her trainer.

As luck would have it, Katharine’s trainer had a new sales project that had just arrived. He was a 15.3, 8-year-old buckskin Connemara/Trakehner cross named Poppyfields Tristan with long lines of endurance blood coursing through his veins.

“I didn’t look at any other horses. I sat on him, and that was it,” Katharine recalled. “He’d just been a trail horse before, but he’d gone cross country schooling once and seemed to love it.”

Katharine was eyeing a switch to the eventing world, but the transition was not without its hiccups. “I took him to a mini event and did Novice, and our dressage was terrible. It’s taken me eight or nine years to try to convince him that he doesn’t need to be a giraffe!” she laughed.

The work was worth the rewards, though, as after Katharine and Tristan’s first cross country course she succumbed to tears of joy at the accomplishment they’d just achieved together. “I think I was just hooked on the adrenaline rush,” Katharine said. “I was just so excited to have accomplished it — and most of that excitement comes from him. He just loves cross country.”

Katharine has taken her time with Tristan, spending time at each level until it becomes boring. “We did Novice until it was boring and then stepped up to Training. We had some rough times because for me it was a big step up, and now we’re going through similar growing pains stepping up to Prelim.”

A self-professed cautious rider, Katharine credits Tristan for taking the reins and giving her confidence through the years. “I’m a very meticulous rider, and most of my background is in dressage,” she said. “I enjoy the adrenaline of cross country, but I’m very afraid of doing something that would hurt either of us. So we’ve just kind of crawled up the levels.”

“I know we are nowhere near hitting the limit of his scope,” she continued. “With a more confident rider, I have no doubt he’d be going Advanced. But he’s been so great to me and safe to ride. If we get in a sticky spot, he either figures out a way to make it work or he won’t jump because he wants to stay safe. He’s always looking out for us.”

Photo courtesy of Nathan Stancliff.

Tristan’s conformation has made him slightly downhill, which does cause some difficulty in the dressage, especially as the tests become more intricate. “My joke is that some days I’m riding a Connemara and some days I’m riding a Trakehner — and on the unholy days I’m riding both,” Katharine said. “The Trakehner lends a lot of athleticism, while the Connemara lightens up the load, but the downhill build can be difficult, and he does take more work to be in top condition.”

“He’s not quick off the cross country like the Thoroughbreds are, but he still comes off feeling like he could go around again. He can be a little hot and stubborn, but I like the Connemara in him because he’s always thinking and trying his best.”

Tristan is 16 now, and while he shows no signs of slowing down, Katharine remains realistic about her goals with her wonder horse. “I have my eyes on a one-star in the future. I’d love to finish his career off that way,” she said. “I’ll let him tell me if it’s something he wants to do. He’s my best friend, and I don’t want to do anything that would put him in a bad place. If we do a one-star, it will be because it’s the next logical step for us and it’s easy for him to do.”

Always a planner, Katharine decided that her experience with the Connemara cross was something she wanted to continue in her next horse. She contacted Tristan’s breeder, who advised her to contact Black Dog Farm’s Beth Davidson, who breeds Connemara crosses for sport.

“Tristan’s breeder told me that she has mostly Connemara mares now, and that I’d be better off with a Connemara stallion and a Trakehner mare,” Katharine said. “She didn’t want me to end up with something too small. So I’ve been in touch with Beth (Davidson) and I plan to find one that she’s bred when it’s time for me to have a new horse.”

In the meantime, Katharine is enjoying her new season with Tristan; they most recently completed the Training division at The Fork and will be working on a successful run at Prelim this season. “We’ve really enjoyed this partnership, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do this year.”

You may remember one of our most-loved helmet cams here on EN, which we shared with you last year. Click here to revisit Katharine and Tristan’s emotional trip around the Prelim course at FENCE last year.

Wednesday Videos from Kentucky Performance Products: The Fork FEI Winners

By Sally Spickard on Apr 8, 2015 5:00 pm -

RNS Video has begun uploading their three-phase videos from The Fork, beginning with the three FEI division winners. Watch Molly Tulley and Allie Knowles’ Last Call dominating the CIC* in their second CCI together. Molly and “Fergie” led after show jumping and didn’t look back, and it seems like this pair has a lovely partnership in the works.

Tamie Smith and Alex Ahearn’s Mai Baum also took home a big win in the CIC2*, coming home with the quickest time of the division on cross country to move from fourth into first place. This is a newer partnership for Tamie, and she’s been working hard at forming a partnership with the stunning German Sport Horse gelding. These two will head to Jersey Fresh next month as the next stop on their East Coast campaign as they look to make a mid for the U.S. Pan American Games team.

And finally, Jennie Brannigan and Tim and Nina Gardner’s Cambalda triumphed in the CIC3*, ending their Rolex prep runs on a very high note as they look ahead to Kentucky. We already saw some snippets of their cross country ride courtesy of the Thehorsepesterer, but now you can watch the full trip in this video from RNS.

Many thanks to RNS Video for providing such comprehensive video coverage for so many events. Be sure to check out their YouTube page and keep an eye out for them at your next event!

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Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: Spring Bay Helmet Cam

By Sally Spickard on Apr 7, 2015 6:00 pm -

You may remember a certain helmet cam from the Nutrena American Eventing Championships last year, featuring rider Bobbie Jones giving her 8-year-old American Paint pep talks throughout the whole course.

Well, we’re excited to say that Bobbie and Rebel’s Heartbreaker were back in action, complete with their helmet cam, at Spring Bay this past weekend. We love hearing Bobbie talk to Rebel throughout the course, and it looks like they both had a blast!

Many thanks to Bobbie for allowing us to share her videos. You can check out more videos from Bobbie and Rebel on her YouTube page here.

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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.

Rolex Rookies: Elinor MacPhail and RF Eloquence

By Sally Spickard on Apr 7, 2015 3:00 pm -

Welcome to our second annual Rolex Rookies series! We're thrilled to be profiling the new faces on the entry list for Rolex this year, and we couldn't be more excited for these riders taking their first crack at Kentucky. We'll be bringing you exclusive profiles on each Rookie pair, so keep checking back to learn more about the competitors you'll see in Kentucky this year. Go Rolex!

Elinor MacPhail and RF Eloquence. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Confidence is Ellie MacPhail’s keyword as she makes her final preparations for her CCI4* debut with RF Eloquence, a 10-year-old Holsteiner gelding owned by Sally Crane. After stepping back to the two-star level with “Ricky Bobby” after he rehabbed from a minor injury, Ellie felt that his confidence had really boosted and that he was ready to tackle his first four-star.

Competed through the CIC* level with Germany’s Dirk Schrade, RF Eloquence was sourced by Karen O’Connor and Marilyn Little as a 6-year-old for another rider, and Ellie was who he ended up with in the end. “They called me and let me know he was available, as they thought he’d be well suited for me,” Ellie recalled.

The goal for the gelding was always for him to become an upper-level talent, so she has spent the time putting in the necessary work to achieve that goal.

“It’s been a little difficult finding the balance between keeping him confident and not overdoing it,” Ellie said. “We did a lot of cross country schools, but we didn’t overdo it. But it’s really been great for his confidence to school the questions and keep him working.”

Ellie has described the talented gelding before as one that prefers to have his hand held, but she’s begun feeling him become more confident as time progresses. “The good thing is, he is brave about corners and drops, so we don’t have to worry about those,” Ellie said. “It’s not that he’s afraid — he just needs to take the edge off a little.“

After finishing second in the CIC3* at Poplar Place last month, Elinor felt that both she and Ricky Bobby were ready for their next challenge. “I think we really knew he was ready after we moved back up to Advanced last year, before Fair Hill,” she said. “At Poplar, he really stepped up and I realized that he was really a serious horse. He’s always the type to be nervous on cross country, but then he steps up and handles it way better than you’d ever expect.”

Ellie works with Clayton Fredericks in Florida and was also named to the Eventing 25 list program year, where she was able to receive coaching from Leslie Law. “The main thing we got from Leslie was some changes to my hand position,” she said. “Bobby gets a little tense and curled, so Leslie worked with us on staying out of his way and letting them do their job.”

Ellie and RF Eloquence finished 11th in the CCI3* at Fair Hill last year, giving them a solid prep for Derek di Grazia’s beefed-up Rolex course. As is the opinion of most riders, Ellie is excited to get out and tackle Derek’s course.

“Fair Hill was great,” she said. “All of the questions were presented in a way that the horses understood them, but it was still tricky. I’m still pretty freaked out, but it’s been good to have the prep events leading up so I can just focus on one step at a time.“

For Ellie, Rolex is a goal that has been in the works since she volunteered as a Pony Club member when she was younger. “I went and volunteered, and that’s when I knew I wanted to event,” she said in her Eventing 25 interview. “My mom fox hunted, so I grew up around the horses, and I kind of always knew I’d find what I wanted to do with it.”

Don’t Miss EN’s ‘Insanity In the Middle’ Rolex Tailgate, Presented by World Equestrian Brands

By Sally Spickard on Apr 7, 2015 1:00 pm -

Get ready...

If you missed it last year, it should probably go at or near the top of your Rolex bucket list. That’s right, EN — our official “Insanity In the Middle” Rolex tailgate party, presented by World Equestrian Brands, is going to be bigger than ever!

Our tailgate party is our favorite way to show our appreciation for our readers, as without each and every one of you we would not be half as successful as we are. So come on out on cross country day, April 25, to enjoy some snacks, adult beverages, free EN swag0- and the best Rolex tailgate party on course!

Come party with us!

We’ve gone all out this year, securing two tailgate spots in a premium position to accommodate as many EN readers (and celebrities!) as possible. Our generous sponsor, World Equestrian Brands, will be on hand for some great contests and giveaways throughout the day, and their sponsored riders will be stopping by to rub elbows throughout the day.

Here’s all of the info you need to know:

Why yes, those are mimosas!

What: An all day, ridiculous party on the Rolex cross country course. We’ll be taking in the action from our premium tailgate spots while partying it up with our readers. Several celebrity appearances are scheduled, and Chinch will also be taking selfies in the selfie booth if you’d like an opportunity to hang with a real celebrity.

When: Saturday, April 25 from the first horse on course (usually around 10 a.m.) until the last horse crosses the finish line — otherwise known as whenever Buck Davidson is finished riding all 17 of his horses.

Where: You can find us in the infield at the Kentucky Horse Park, in tailgate spots B90 and B91 — you can check out the location by viewing the tailgate spot map here.

We’ll have a schedule of the fun for you in the days leading up to the party of the year. Until then, mark your calendars and get your party pants on, EN! We’ll see you on course.

Go Eventing!

Eventing 25 Rider Kaitlin Veltkamp Retires Flashpoint D

By Sally Spickard on Apr 7, 2015 11:00 am -

Kaitlin Veltkamp and Flashpoint D. Photo courtesy of Natalie Kuhny.

Kaitie Veltkamp has enjoyed multitudes of success with her 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, Flashpoint D. The gelding had suffered a superficial tendon tear that, with the help and research of an entire team of experts, was rehabbed to the point where he was able to continue competing at the upper levels, but Kaitie knew that every ride aboard “Undie” was a blessing.

Unfortunately, Kaitie announced on her Facebook page this week that she had made the decision to retire her partner in the interest of preserving his soundness. She hopes to be out competing in pure dressage with him, as he is by no means ready to spend the rest of his days in a pasture.

“He’s doing his best to convince me that he’s fit, happy and ready to go jump stuff,” Kaitie said. “It’s so heartbreaking, but he’s given me so much that I can’t complain even for a moment.“

Kaitie posted the following statement on her Facebook page:

My little champion, my horse of a lifetime. Thank you for everything you have given to me over the last ten years. You have taken me to places I could only ever dream of the day I first met you at only 11 years old. I don’t know how I’m going to tell you that your days of galloping on the course eagerly hunting down your next fence are over.

Your spirit and your passion are so huge but your little body just can not hold up any longer. You have given me everything. You have pushed through the pain for me and for this crazy sport of ours. I will be forever searching for another partner that will give me the same joy you have.

You have given me the best ten years of my life but now this high jumping, fast galloping chapter is over. It’s time for you to start a new one enjoying warm, sunny days in a big, green pasture. I love you, Undles. Thank you for everything past, present, and future. You’ve got a heart of gold, little man. Give your baby sister a pep talk for me, she’s got some very big shoes to fill.

Thank you so much to everyone who has helped us on our journey. We have been blessed with the best parents, trainers, farriers, vets, and friends we could have ever asked for. We couldn’t have gone even half this distance without your knowledge, love, and support.

Kaitie would like to thank those who have supported her and Undie’s endeavors through the year, namely Dayna Lynd-Pugh, Sarah Lorenz, Leslie Law, and Lesley Grant-Law. She also wishes to thank her sponsor, Cur-Ost, for keeping Undie running his best for as long as he could.

We wish Flashpoint D the best of luck in his retirement; meanwhile, we know that Kaitie has a talented young horse on which she’ll be focusing for the time being so we can’t wait to see more from her in the future.

Monday Videos from Tredstep Ireland: Team Tredstep Out in Full Force at The Fork

By Sally Spickard on Apr 6, 2015 5:00 pm -

Tredstep riders were out and about in North Carolina this weekend as they competed in various divisions at The Fork. As usual, we have The Horse Pesterer to thank for collecting multiple videos of their rides, so we’ve got plenty of action to watch to keep us distracted from our event hangovers.

Keep an eye out for a very special Tredstep contest as we count down the days until Rolex!

Lillian Heard, Boyd Martin Win Great Save Awards at The Fork

By Sally Spickard on Apr 6, 2015 3:00 pm -

Boyd Martin and Crackerjack. Photo by Jenni Autry.

We all love a good “great save” story, and we’ve got two good ones for you from The Fork this weekend. We’re sure we’re missing some, so if you have a tip (and a photo or video!) on a great save that you don’t mind sharing, then send it to us at [email protected].

Lillian Heard and Boyd Martin picked up a great save each on course this weekend, both escaping hairy situations to the delight of the crowd who had gathered to watch. Lillian Heard, who was riding Abbie Golden’s Arundel in the CIC2* pulled off a fantastic save in the tricky water complex after Arundel unseated her on the way in.

Lillian and Arundel both stayed professional while Lillian righted herself in the saddle and somehow made the B and C elements of the question work from a “tranter,” as Abbie called it. Check out Lillian’s save in its entirety here:

Not to be outdone, Boyd Martin and Lucy Boynton Lie’s Crackerjack also pulled off a “Superman” moment on the mound complex near the end of the course. Many combinations had to work hard to make this tough question work, and Boyd showed his experience reining a feisty Crackerjack in to make it over the hanging log at the top of the mound.

Despite the ballooning nature of the horse’s jump, Boyd managed to stay out of his way and continue on his way to the final jump in that question — just another day in the office for Boyd!

So, who gets your vote for the best save of the day at The Fork? Comment with your choice below! Many thanks to The Horse Pesterer for capturing these memorable moments on video as always — be sure to check out the rest of his playlist from The Fork here.

Rolex Rookies: Lizzie Snow and Coal Creek

By Sally Spickard on Apr 6, 2015 11:00 am -

Lizzie Snow and Coal Creek at Bromont. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Lizzie Snow has had big plans for her and her black OTTB, Coal Creek, in 2015. Those big goals have always included a CCI4* debut in Kentucky, but it wasn’t until 2014 when that goal became to seem like a reality.

“I think (Rolex) has always been in the back of my mind,” she said. “But I’d say after last year it actually became possible. I’ve always wanted to go, but the past year I think we’ve really solidified our partnership and made the idea worth entertaining.”

It hasn’t always been an easy ride for Lizzie, who acquired the ride on Coal Creek in 2011. Campaigned through the CCI3* level by Amy Tryon, “Devon” became Lizzie’s new ride thanks to the generosity of his owner Kathryn Rosson, who made half of the horse available for purchase to Lizzie and her mother, Diane.

Lizzie commented in her Eventing 25 interview that Devon had taught her to ride, teaching her patience and giving her invaluable experience that she would need to compete at the top levels.

“I think he’s changed quite a bit since I got him,” Lizzie said. “He was so strong; he ran away with me at Young Riders (in 2011), and he tends to be more strong at different venues. I figured out how to ride him in the three-star at Carolina, where he’s usually very strong.”

“I’ve figured out how to deal with how strong he is, especially on a course like Carolina where there are a lot of turns. I’ve had to just let him go in between fences and learn how to get him back. Carolina is very twisty and turning and I think that type of course is harder for him.”

Lizzie Snow and Coal Creek. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Lizzie Snow and Coal Creek at Bromont. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Lizzie and Devon, who will be 16 this year, placed third in the CCI3* at Bromont last year and re-routed to the CCI3* at Galway Downs after retiring at Fair Hill in the fall. Having ridden a good amount of tracks designed by Derek di Grazia, Lizzie is feeling confident that she’s as prepared as she can be for Rolex.

“I think that we’ve been running at the Advanced level and gotten our partnership strong enough to where I am comfortable with the step up,” Lizzie elaborated. “Of course, whenever I walk the course for the first time (at Rolex), I’m sure I’ll change my mind!”

Lizzie is hoping to add Kentucky to the list of venues that Devon seems to prefer. “We’ve had a string of bad luck at Fair Hill — we’ve never gotten around there,” Lizzie said. “But he isn’t too strong there, so I’m not sure what it is. He’s run well at Pine Top and The Fork, and he’s very strong at Carolina. I do feel the bigger, more open courses suit him, such as Bromont and Galway, so I think that bodes well for Kentucky. I think he prefers the bigger galloping stretches because then I am not on him all the time to adjust.”

Lizzie ran the Intermediate at The Fork over the weekend as her final prep, with the intent to be to go slow and have a solid fitness run leading up to Kentucky, where they finished fourth, logging 13.6 time penalties to add to their dressage score.

As Rolex approaches, Lizzie says she is the most nervous about the dressage. “He can be really good, or something will set him off and he’ll bolt and take off,” she said. “I’m just hoping to get his brain in the right place and not have him look up and see the crowd!”

Lizzie knows she has a lot to be grateful for as her longtime goal finally approaches fulfillment. “At the moment, I’m not feeling too bad — I’m sure that will change, though. I am really excited to go and get around, and I think it’s the next logical step for us.”

Best of luck to Lizzie and Devon as the days continue to count down to their Rolex debut!

10 Ways to Be a Successful Eventer from Mary King

By Sally Spickard on Apr 5, 2015 3:00 pm -

Mary King and Imperial Cavalier at Badminton. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Mary King’s newest book, Mary King, My Way: How I Train for Success is chock full of valuable information from one of the most experienced event riders in the sport’s history. With countless accolades adorning her CV, picking up a copy of her autobiography or her latest book is sure to yield many tips for success.

In her newest book, which you can find here, Mary compiles a list of 10 ways to become successful in the sport of eventing — and realistically these tips can all be applied to every walk of life. It’s a solid reminder of the skill set and determination it takes to make it in this sport, and Mary speaks from experience when she talks through each bullet point.

Our friends over at Horse & Hound have printed the list of success tips in its entirety, which you can read here. Here are a few examples to get you started:

Understanding and coping with tension

Tension can be caused by a variety of reasons — excitement on the part of the horse, anticipation of the work ahead, nervousness, not trusting the rider. Therefore, find ways of easing the pressure for your horse and helping him to relax — perhaps through lots of steady work, hacks and plenty of turnout. A tense horse will be much happoer to be out 24/7 and ideally with a calm companion.

Coping with the lows

Difficult though it may be at the time, try to take a positive out of a negative situation. In eventing, you have to be able to cope with the lows if you want to continue eventing and compete for a long time. And don’t let yourself get too low in the lows. Simply work out what went wrong, why it went wrong, how you can make it right and how it could have been prevented. Then enjoy the good times!

Choosing the right horse

Don’t be too proud and persist with a horse who’s not living up to your dreams. If a horse you’ve bought — who you thought would be top class — is not enjoying the work and not performing consistently well for the level of training he’s at, be prepared to bite the bullet and sell him on to someone who’s less competitive and happy to compete at the lower levels. Keep looking for that right horse — there will be one out there for you.

You can read the remaining seven pieces of advice by visiting Horse & Hound here. And don’t forget to order a copy of Mary King, My Way for yourself here. We’re sure it will be a worthwhile addition to your library!

Relive Jennie Brannigan’s Winning Weekend at The Fork

By Sally Spickard on Apr 5, 2015 1:00 pm -

Nina Gardner, Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda celebrate their winning weekend. Photo via Laura Reilly on Facebook.

Thanks to the fine video skills of The Horse Pesterer, we’re now able to take a look back at Jennie Brannigan’s big win in the CIC3* at The Fork with Cambalda this weekend. This pair historically performs very well at this event and were our predicted winners for the weekend.

Perhaps one of our favorite parts of watching Jennie’s weekend is seeing her celebration after the crosses the finish on cross country, knowing she’s come home double clear to clinch the win. Many thanks to The Horse Pesterer for capturing those moments! To relive all of the action from The Fork, visit The Horse Pesterer on YouTube here.

Meet the OTTBs Who are Coming to Rolex This Year

By Sally Spickard on Apr 5, 2015 11:00 am -

Meghan O'Donoghue and Pirate. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The entry list for Rolex has been set, and Thorougbred aficionados from all over have taken to poring over it for former racehorses who will be making their appearance on center line in a few weeks. Thanks to the diligent research of the brains behind the Retired Racehorse Project, we’ve got the most updated list of OTTBs as well as pure, unraced Thoroughbreds who will be competing in Kentucky this year.

You can find the full analysis of the Thoroughbreds over on the Retired Racehorse Project here. We’d also like to add that Lisa Barry’s horse, F.I.S. Prince Charming, is a New Zealand Thoroughbred who raced until he was four in his home country. Fellow OTTB supporter Allie Conrad did some digging based on the sire information listed in the FEI database and narrowed the results down to:

Waitui Jo (NZ), 2003 gelding, by His Royal Highness (NZ), out of Mystic (NZ)

Here’s the full list of Thoroughbreds entered at Rolex this year. Thanks to the Retired Racehorse Project for all of their hard work compiling this list! Who will you be cheering on later this month?

Anthony Patch (Lainey Ashker/rider) USA
Alex’s Castledream (NJ), 1999 gelding, by Castle Guard, out of Aimee Alexis by Right Mind
Race Record: 10 starts – 0 win – 0 place – 0 show, $815 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 2 CCI4* – 4 CCI3* – 4 CIC3* – 20 Advanced HT
20th 2011 Rolex CCI4*; 14th 2010 Rolex CCI4*

AP Prime (Leah Lang-Gluscic/CML Horses LLC) USA
A. P. Prime (KY), 2005 gelding, by Aptitude, out of Czarina Kate by The Prime Minister
Race Record: 31 starts – 2 wins – 4 place – 5 show, $20,175 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 0 CCI4*– 2 CCI3* – 1 CIC3* – 5 Advanced HT

Coal Creek (Ellizabeth Snow/rider) CAN
Frank J (WA), 1999 gelding, by Devil on Ice, out of Hard to Fathom by Search for Gold
Race Record: 7 starts – 1 win – 0 place – 1 show, $3,628 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 0 CCI4* – 4 CCI3*– 7 CIC3* – 15 Advanced HT

Collection Pass (Kate Chadderton/Rege Dvorsky) AUS
Collection Pass (PA), 2002 gelding, by Collection Agent, out of Winged Passage by Assault Landing
Race Record: 6 starts – 0 win – 0 place – 0 show, $0 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 0 CCI4*– 1 CCI3* – 4 CIC3* – 7 Advanced HT

Donner (Lynn Symansky/rider) USA
Smart Gorky (NY), 2003 gelding, by Gorky Park (FR), out of Smart Jane by Smarten
Race Record: 6 starts – 0 win – 0 place – 0 show, $2,870 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 3 CCI4* – 1 CCI3* – 6 CIC3* – 7 Advanced HT – 5th 2013 Rolex CCI4*

Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Fly Me Courageous. Photo by Kasey Mueller.

Fly Me Courageous (Sara Kozumplik Murphy/Debbie Foote) USA
Truly Improper (TX), 2005 gelding, by Truluck, out of Proper Eight by Proper Reality
Race Record: 10 starts – 0 win – 1 place – 0 show, $3,630 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 0 CCI4* – 1 CCI3* – 3 CIC3* – 2 Advanced HT

Gleaming Road (Anna Collier/rider) USA
Pistol Pakin Pete (WA), 2003 gelding, by Cahill Road, out of Aspiring Proof by Proof
Race Record: 22 starts – 3 wins – 3 place – 3 show, $19,383 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 0 CCI4* – 1 CCI3* – 3 CIC3* – 4 Advanced HT

Houdini (Katie Frei/rider) USA
Rocky Times (WV), 2004 gelding, by Hot Rock, out of Nancy’s Star by Big Sal
Race Record: 5 starts – 0 win – 0 place – 1 show, $1,180 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 1 CCI4*– 1 CCI3* – 3 CIC3* – 8 Advanced HT – 34th 2014 Rolex CCI4*

Imperial Melody (Cody Sturgess/rider) CAN
Imperial Melody (ON), 2003 mare, by My Imperial Slew, out of Golden Melody by Geiger Counter
Race Record: 1 starts – 0 win – 0 place – 1 show, $550 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 0 CCI4* – 1 CCI3* – 5 CIC3* – 2 Advanced HT

Rachel McDonough and Irish Rhythm. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Irish Rhythm (Rachel McDonough/rider) CAN
Daniel Alexander (ON), 1999 gelding, by Vice Chancellor, out of Dawnsari by Dawn Flight
Race Record: 43 starts – 1 win – 3 place – 4 show, $25,923 earnings
Competition Record: 1 CCI4* – 2 CCI3*– 3 CIC3* – 1 Advanced HT – 25th 2014 Rolex CCI4*

Madison Park (Kyle Carter/rider & Jennifer Carter) CAN
Magic Retribution (WA), 1998 gelding, by Monaco Magic, out of Mistress of Mine by Band Practice
Race Record: 11starts – 1 win – 0 place – 0 show, $2,744 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 5 CCI4* – 2 CCI3* – 14 CIC3* – 13 Advanced HT
13th 2010 Rolex CCI4*; 33rd 2009 Rolex CCI4*; 18th 2008 Rolex CCI4*

Nonsensical (Emilee Libby/rider) USA
Nonsensical (FL), 2003 gelding, by Point Given, out of On the Brink by Cox’s Ridge
Race Record: 6 starts – 1 win – 1 place – 0 show, $45,000 earnings
Competition Record: 0 CCI4*– 2 CCI3* – 2 CIC3* – 4 Advanced HT

James Alliston and Parker. Photo by Kasey Mueller.

Parker (James Alliston/rider) GBR
Eastside Park (NJ), 2002 gelding, by Marquetry, out of Hello Mom by Caveat
Race Record: 15 starts – 0 win – 0 place – 3 show, $8,145 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 3 CCI4* – 4 CCI3* – 3 CIC3* – 11 Advanced HT (322 Lifetime USEA Points)
22nd 2014 Rolex CCI4*, 14th 2013 Rolex CCI4*, 14th 2011 Rolex CCI4*

Parklane Hawk (William Fox-Pitt/Catherine Witt) GBR
Park Lane (NZ), 2000 gelding, by Grosvener (NZ), out of Deebee Lady (NZ) by Briilliant Invader (AUS)
Race Record: 19 starts – 0 win – 0 place – 2 show, $1,875 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 5 CCI4* – 2 CCI3* – 7 CIC3* – 1st 2012 Rolex CCI4*

Pirate (Meghan O’Donoghue/rider) USA
Pirate’s Gold Star (IL), 2002 gelding, by Pirate Stronghold, out of Stars Heir by Risen Star
Race Record: 10 starts – 1 win – 0 place – 2 show, $3,840 earnings
USEA Competition Record:2 CCI4* – 2 CCI3* – 6 CIC3* – 10 Advanced HT
17th 2014 Rolex CCI4*; 12th 2013 Rolex CCI4*

Relentless Pursuit (Dana Widstrand/rider) USA
Super Rover (IL), 1996 gelding, by A Lee Rover, out of Sumptious Gal by Super Hit
Race Record: 3 starts – 3 wins – 0 place – 0 show, $13,201 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 0 CCI4* – 2 CCI3* – 4 CIC3* – 11 Advanced HT

Bunnie Sexton and Rise Against. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Rise Against (Bunnie Sexton/rider) USA
Trabuco Kid (CA), 1999 gelding, by Far Out East, out of April Betty by Distant Land
Race Record: 4 starts – 0 win – 0 place – 0 show, $0 earnings
USEA Competition Record: 0 CCI 4*– 2 CCI3* – 3 CIC3* – 9 Advanced HT

Shiraz (Colleen Rutledge/rider) USA
Bold and Burley (FL), 1998 gelding, by Gallapiat, out of Bold Blossom by Fountain of Gold
Race Record: 14 starts – 2 wins – 0 place – 1 show, $10,862 earnings
Competition Record: 5 CCI4*– 2 CCI3*– 9 CIC3*– 16 Advanced HT – 12th 2011 Rolex CCI4*

Elisa and Johnny at Bromont. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Simply Priceless (Elisa Wallace/Jill Hopcroft) USA
Kalinga Damo (AUS), 2001 gelding, by Waterford Road, out of Faux Franc (AUS) by Twig Moss (FR)
Race Record: 10 starts – 0 win – 0 show – 1 place, $711 earnings
Competition Record: 0 CCI4* – 1 CCI3* – 2 CIC3* – 7 Advanced HT

Sound Prospect (Alexandra Knowles/rider) USA
Sound Prospect (KY), 2002 gelding, by Eastern Echo, out of Miners Girl by Miner’s Mark
Race Record: 13 starts – 0 win – 2 place – 1 show, $2,546 earnings
Competition record: 0 CCI4* – 2 CCI3* – 6 CIC3* – 7 Advanced HT

Tsunami (Sally Cousins/rider) USA
Tsu Tsu Ro (PA), 1999 mare, by Roanoke, out of Tsu Tsu Slew by Tsunami Slew
Race Record: 24 starts – 3 wins – 2 place – 4 show, $35,170 earnings
Competition Record: 2 CCI4*– 6 CCI3* – 6 CIC3* – 11 Advanced HT
18th 2014 Rolex CCI4*, 14th 2012 Rolex CCI4*

Vilas County (Werner Geven/Carden Burdette) NED
Vilas County (KY), 2004 gelding, by Jump Start, out of Brave Hearted (GB) by Dancing Brave
Race Record: 9 starts – 1 win – 0 place – 0 show, $5,763 earnings
Competition Record:

Pure Thoroughbreds – unraced (and, in two cases, un-registered)

Andromaque (Will Faudree/Jennifer Mosing and Sterling Silver Stables) USA
unnamed (IRE), 2001 mare, by Anshan (GB), out of Gortnagale (IRE) by Strong Gale (IRE)
USEA Competition Record: 1 CCI4* – 2 CCI3* – 12 CIC3* – 4 Advanced HT
16th, 2012 Rolex CCI4*

Freddie Mac (William Fox-Pitt/Lady Best and Jane Kier) GBR
Unregistered (NZ), 2004 gelding, by Heroicity (AUS), out of Go Tara (NZ) by Tarrago (ITY)
International Competition Record: 0 CCI4* – 2 CCI3* – 1 CIC3* with William Fox-Pitt

Never Outfoxed (Holly Payne/rider) USA
Never Outfoxed (FL), 2006 Gelding, by Veronica’s Sir, out of Caroverse by Opening Verse
USEA Competition Record: 0 CCI4* – 2 CCI3* – 2 CIC3* – 4 Advanced HT

Angela Grzywinksi and Novelle. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Novelle (Angela Grzywinkski/rider) USA
Cupid’s Tart (KY), 2002 mare, by Frisk Me Now, out of Teetawk by Lil E. Tee
USEA Competition Record: 0 CCI4*– 1 CCI3* – 3 CIC3* – 5 Advanced HT

Petite Flower (Buck Davidson/Caroline and Sherrie Martin) USA
Unregistered (PA), 2002 mare, by Amber’s Lust, out of Tears of a Loss (IRE) by Prince Rupert (FR)
USEA Competition Record: 0 CCI4* – 1 CCI3* – 3 CIC3* – 7 Advanced HT

What It’s All About: A Social Media Recap from The Fork

By Sally Spickard on Apr 4, 2015 8:49 pm -

Tamie Smith is a happy camper tonight with Mai Baum and Fleur de Lis, first and third in the CIC2*. Photo via Mackenna Shea on Facebook.

The FEI divisions as well as the Advanced wrapped up today at The Fork, and the riders who are bound for Kentucky are breathing a collective sigh of relief after a safe day of cross country. While a few fell victim to Tremaine Cooper’s course, we’re pleased to report that it appears everyone is just fine, except for possibly a few bruised egos, as the sun sets on North Carolina. And that is the most important thing at the end of each competition day!

Sinead Halpin had an unlucky fall from Grey Area in the CIC2* today, but she’s reporting that all’s well this evening. Good thing eventers are hard headed, right? We wish Sinead the best and are happy to hear she will be ok after knocking her head.

Phillip Dutton had a great day on cross country, who piloted all four of his rides home clear across tough courses. Phillip will head to Kentucky next with Mighty Nice, Fernhill Fugitive, and Fernhill Cubalawn.

Jessica Bortner-Harris and Win the War romped around the Advanced cross country, logging the second fastest time of the Advanced B division. Needless to say, Jessica is thrilled with her mighty OTTB and how well he stepped up to the plate all weekend.

Liz Riley and It’s the Truth were the second to last pair out on cross country in the Advanced division today, and from the sound of the announcer it sounds like they had a blast out there. This pair also blazed around the course to move up from 28th to 19th overall.

EN’s very own Kate Samuels also had a great day today, easily coming home clear on the Advanced cross country to move up to seventh place overall. Kate has been thrilled with Nyls all weekend — well, maybe not so much with his dressage, but he quickly redeemed himself with two fantastic jumping rounds. Way to go, Kate! #ENkarmaalltheway

I also must give a shout-out to Kelsey Briggs and The Gentleman Pirate, who skipped around the CIC2* cross country course today, surviving a very hairy moment thanks to some quick thinking and good riding. You may remember Kelsey and her incredible story with her OTTB — if not, catch up here and become a fan!

Cheers to Justine Dutton for managing to stay in the saddle today! Just joking, Justine! But after parting ways unluckily at Poplar Place in their last run, redemption is sweet! This pair also skipped around the Advanced cross country with just time added. It’s on to Jersey Fresh for this talented mare!

And, finally, one of our favorite photos of the day. Win, lose or draw — this is what our sport is all about. The camraderie we witness is unmatched, and it’s heartwarming to see Buck congratulating Jennie Brannigan on her CIC3* win. When the dusts settles, our horses’ happiness and our relationship with our peers are two of the most special and important things in this sport. It’s definitely worth remember when times get tough. We hope you’re celebrating tonight, Jennie! Well deserved.

Go Eventing.

#TheFork: Website, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By Sally Spickard on Apr 4, 2015 2:30 pm -

Every year when the Rolex entry list goes live, I always peruse the list for former racehorses. There’s just something special about seeing a racehorse thriving in its new career, and while of course I prefer eventing to be that career it’s definitely a known fact that these versatile horses can be invaluable in just about any avenue of life. Just take this Quarter Horse trapped in an OTTB’s body over on Horse Nation.

Just like I peruse the Rolex list for OTTBs, I also find myself constantly window shopping for horses who have that sparkle that just gives me those stomach butterflies we all are familiar with. Luckily, I seem to have landed on the perfect OTTB for myself — and while I wish had the financial security to take in another (or three), I know that there are good homes just waiting for their next perfect match. Perhaps yours is listed in this week’s wish list! Have a look:

Photo via CANTER Illinois.

If you’re a fan of chestnuts with some bling, you’ll stop and look at Boom Boom Billy, a big handsome 3-year-old just listed with CANTER Illinois. Boom Boom Billy (Mauk Four – Bridget’s Tribute, by Gold Tribute) has raced three times and is slated to make his fourth start at Fairmount Park today.

Standing 17 hands tall, this guy is said to be well mannered and sound for any discipline. He’s just ready to take on his new career outside of the racetrack. Low miles on this one, and he’s ready to finish in the way you please!

Boom Boom Billy on CANTER Illinois

Photo via CANTER Mid-Atlantic.

Kwiatkowski is our next listing this week, available through CANTER Mid-Atlantic. Kwiatkowski (Delta Miner – Chrome, by Rhodes) is a 2011 colt who has raced a total of six times without hitting the board. This guy stands 16 hands and is said to be a nice mover who will finish out as a nice sport horse. He’s got clean legs and is available at Mahoning Valley in Austintown, Ohio.

Kwiatkowski on CANTER Mid Atlantic

Photo courtesy of New Vocations.

If color is your thing, we’ve got a sampler pack for you this week! Our final featured listing of the week is Desert Doc, a 6-year-old gelding currently available for adoption through the Lexington, Kentucky chapter of New Vocations. Desert Doc (Kela – Jessica, by Doc’s Leader) is our biggest earner this week, racing 21 times for a total career earning of $33,628. He’s been off the track since 2013, though, so he’s had time to settle into life away from the racing world.

At 16 hands, Desert Doc is said to be stockily built and a very easy going guy. New Vocations has found that he really seems to prefer to be a one-person horse, so he’d be perfect if you’re looking for that one horse to form a bond with.

Desert Doc on New Vocations

The Fork Advanced Live Cross Country Updates: Lauren Kieffer Wins Both

By Sally Spickard on Apr 4, 2015 12:25 pm -

Fence 2 - Uwharrie Technology Trap House

It’s already been a jam-packed day in Norwood, North Carolina as the CIC* and CIC3* contested their cross country courses already. Now, it’s the Advanced division’s turn, and Lauren Kieffer will look to take home the win aboard stablemates Veronica and Czechmate. That’s right, Lauren is currently leading both the Advanced Test A and Advanced Test B divisions, and she’s doing it on two scores in the 20s at that.

Tremaine Cooper’s cross country course is formidable, though, so we’ll be looking for some leaderboard shakeup as these combinations get out on course. Refresh this page to keep up with our live updates, and you can also follow along with the PRO Radio Tour here.

#TheFork: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram, PRO Radio Tour

2:10 p.m. EST: That’s a wrap for the Advanced divisions at The Fork! We’ll have a full report coming your way shortly.

2:07 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Czechmate were 7 seconds over for 2.8 time penalties. Very close for the top three in the Advanced B, with Boyd and Pancho Villa finishing on a 31.1. Lauren and Czechmate have scraped by to win on a 30.6 provisionally. How’s that for total domination?

2:06 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Czechmate are home clear, let’s see what her time is.

2:03 p.m. EST: Boyd and Pancho Villa finished 6 seconds over time. Liz Riley and It’s the Truth on their way to the finish. Lauren and Czechmate have the course to themselves.

2:02 p.m. EST: Liz Riley has a hard jump into the water and does good to stay aboard. Kate Chadderton is over 21.

2:02 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Czechmate are on course – can she win both Advanced divisions today?

2:01 p.m. EST:

2:00 p.m. EST: Boyd and Pancho Villa are clear through 18 and 19, Kate Chadderton is at the water at 13 and Liz Riley is clear through 6.

1:59 p.m. EST: Liz Riley and It’s The Truth are on course on their way to 2 and 3.

1:57 p.m. EST: Busy girl Kate Chadderton and VS McCaun Civil Liberty are on course.

1:56 p.m. EST: Boyd Martin and Pancho Villa are headed for fence 7. Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Catchascatchcan are clear through 20.

1:55 p.m. EST: Sally Cousins and Tsunami are clear through 10.

1:51 p.m. EST: Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Catchascatchcan are on course, Victoria Jessop are clear through 12. Ellie MacPhail finishes 18 seconds over in her final prep run with RF Eloquence before Rolex.

1:50 p.m. EST: An uncharacteristic refusal at the water with Ziggy for Andrew McConnon. They’ve picked up a second refusal on the next attempt, and now Andrew’s put his hand up. He’s walking Ziggy through the water to end on a good note. #horsemanship

1:49 p.m. EST: Allison and Mr Sydney Rocks have a hairy go at the water but make it work.

1:48 p.m. EST: Ellie MacPhail and RF Eloquence are nearing the end of their course. Just about 8 more to go today. Victoria Jessop and Desert Mystery are the next to go.

1:46 p.m. EST: Allison Springer and Mr Sydney Rocks are on course and clear through 8. Andrew McConnon and Ziggy are on their way. Ryan Wood and McLovin are clear at 22.

1:43 p.m. EST: Elinor MacPhail and RF Eloquence are on course now. Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo are clear at 18. Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby are home clear. Course appears to be riding very smoothly for this division overall.

1:40 p.m. EST: Ryan Wood and McLovin’ are on their way to fence one. Lisa finishes in 6:55 so she just accumulates 3.2 time penalties.

1:38 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer on course again with Landmark’s Monte Carlo. Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming are home with a clear round and a big smile. She’ll feel great heading into Kentucky with this run.

1:38 p.m. EST: 7:23 for Justine and JollyBo, 7:12 for Colleen Loach. Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming are clear at 18, Lillian is clear at 7.

1:36 p.m. EST: Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby are the new starters. Colleen Loach and Freespirit are on to fence 21, almost home now.

1:35 p.m. EST: Mara DePuy and Coolcorron Kinsale have called it a day at the turtle pond. Brian remarks that the horse got a little caught up on the jump in. They’re walking home.

1:34 p.m. EST: Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming are on course now. This little New Zealand Thoroughbred is a jumping bean! Justine Dutton and JollyBo are jolly good with a clear round and through the finish.

1:33 p.m. EST: Mara DePuy and Coolcorron Kinsale are clear through 9. Justine Dutton and JollyBo are nearing the finish at fence 21.

1:32 p.m. EST: Mara DePuy and Coolcorron Kinsale are on course now. Kate Chadderton and Buckharo are on their way home at 21.

1:30 p.m. EST: Justine and JollyBo are clear through 13. This mare has continued to improve with each start. Allie Knowles and The Dark Mark are home clear with 3.6 time penalties.

1:30 p.m. EST: Colleen Loach and Freespirit are on course now.

1:28 p.m. EST: Justine Dutton and JollyBo are on course and clear through 5. Jessica Bortner Harris and Win the War are just 3 seconds over for 1.2 time – she’ll be positively thrilled with that finish on a score of 53.5.

1:26 p.m. EST: Kate Chadderton and Buckharo are clear through 6. Caroline Martin finishes in 7:05, 18 seconds over with Spring Easy for 7.2 time penalties added.

1:23 p.m. EST: Jennie Jarnstrom finishes in 7:08 with Cape Town. Jessica Bortner Harris are on their way to 18. Allie Knowles and The Dark Mark are on course and clear through 12.

1:22 p.m. EST: Jessica Bortner Harris and Win the War are the new starters. Caroline Martin and Spring Easy are clear through 8.

1:20 p.m. EST: A hard landing at the water for Jennie Jarnstrom and Cape Town but Jennie sticks with it. #stickthelanding

1:20 p.m. EST: Caroline Martin and Spring Easy are on course.

1:19 p.m. EST: Dana Widstrand unfortunately parts ways from Relentless Pursuit at the water. Both she and Rover appear to be ok; Rover appeared to leave a bit of a leg at the jump in.

1:18 p.m. EST: A better view of the Carolina Farm Credit Curve that’s causing issues.

Fence 5 – Carolina Farm Credit Curve

1:17 p.m. EST: Meghan O’Donoghue, Ryan Wood and Lauren Kieffer are all home with time. Sally Cousins and Abecca GS are turning for home. Dana Widstrand is on her way to fence 8. Jennie Jarnstrom and Cape Town are the new starters.

1:15 p.m. EST: Steppin’ Out says no again at 5B, so unfortunately that’s an elimination for this pair. Dana Widstrand and Relentless Pursuit are on course now.

1:14 p.m. EST: Nora and Steppin’ Out have a runout at 5B, and another at their second attempt.

1:13 p.m. EST: Nora Battig and Steppin’ Out are on their way to fence 1. Ryan Wood and Fernhill Classic is clear through 23 and on to the finish. Sally Cousins is clear through 12, Lauren Kieffer is at 18.

1:11 p.m. EST: Sally Cousins and Abecca GS are on course. Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett are coming to the water at 13. Meghan O’Donoghue and Pirate have just two to go.

1:09 p.m. EST: Moving into the Advanced B division, Lauren Kieffer is back on course with Meadowbrook’s Scarlett.

1:08 p.m. EST: Meghan O’Donoghue and Pirate are clear through 12. This crowd favorite is headed to Kentucky next. Will Coleman adds .8 for Obos O’Reilly for a 31.9.

1:07 p.m. EST: Ryan Wood and Fernhill Classic are on course now. Kristin Schmolze is over 17, Will Coleman is almost home with just one to go.

1:04 p.m. EST: Kate Chadderton finishes in 7:11, Phillip and Fernhill Cubalawn in 6:51. Babette Lenna and Little Oliver pick up just 1.6 time penalties. Will Coleman and Obos O’Reilly are in and out of the turtle pond. Kristin Schmolze and Ballylaffin Bracken are clear through 9, Courtney Cooper and Who’s A Star are through 20. Meghan O’Donoghue are on their way.

12:57 p.m. EST: Kate Samuels and Nyls have 2.8 time, Katie Frei have 20 jumping and some time.

12:56 p.m. EST: Kevin Keane and Fernhill Flutter are the newest starters. Kate Chadderton is on her way to 19.

12:55 p.m. EST: Kate Samuels is clear through 22 and on her way home. Phillip Dutton clear through 9.

12:53 p.m. EST: Maya and Doesn’t Play Fair are double clear to finish their weekend on a 31.2. Phillip and Fernhill Cubalawn are the next starters.

12:51 p.m. EST: Lillian Heard and Share Option pick up .8 time for a final score of 27.4. Will Faudree has withdrawn Andromaque. Kate and Nyls are clear through 12. Kate Chadderton and Collection Pass are on course.

12:50 p.m. EST: Kate’s pre-xc ritual:

12:49 p.m. EST: EN’s very own Kate Samuels and Nyls du Terroir are on course! #enkarma

12:48 p.m. EST: Katie and Houdini have a runout at 5B.

12:47 p.m. EST: Katie Frei and Houdini are the newest starters. Lillian Heard and Share Option are on to the finish.

12:45 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Veronica will retain their lead to win the Advanced Test A with a double clear aboard Veronica, finishing on a 23.0. Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair are away.

12:43 p.m. EST: Holly Payne and Never OutFoxed finished double clear to remain on a 38.3. Jimmie Schramm and Bellamy finish in a time of 7:21. Abby Hamblin and Silver Flash are on course. They’ve had a runout at 5B coming a bit too quick down the hill.

12:43 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Veronica are clear at 20. Jimmie Schramm and Bellamy are on their way home.

12:42 p.m. EST: Lillian Heard and Share Option are on course and coming to fence 4.

12:41 p.m. EST: Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect have fallen at 3, they are both up and appear to be ok.

Fence 3 – First Health Trellis Table

12:38 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Veronica are clear through 12.

12:37 p.m. EST: Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice are home with 3.6 time for a 30.7 on the weekend.

12:36 p.m. EST: Jimmie Schramm has a runout at 5, clear on the second attempt.

Fence 5 – Carolina Farm Credit Curve

12:35 p.m. EST: Phillip is clear through 19. Holly Payne is making her way to the turtle pond, and our new starter is Jimmie Schramm and Bellamy. #webelieveinbells

12:33 p.m. EST: Holly Payne and Never OutFoxed are up next. Phillip Dutton is clear through 15.

12:31 p.m. EST: And we’re off! Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice are clear through 4 and 5. These horses will run a very similar course, minus the final water and a couple of other fences.

Lexington Area Recovering from Torrential Rain, More Rain Forecasted

By Sally Spickard on Apr 4, 2015 11:30 am -

The entrance to Kentucky Horse Park virtually unrecognizable. Photo by Courtney Carson.

With just three weeks to go until nearly 100 horses and riders gallop around cross country at Rolex, the Lexington area is warily eyeing the ground as over five inches of rain have fallen on the area in the last 24 hours.

Competitors arriving to compete at Spring Bay this weekend were greeted by torrential downpours and flooded facilities.

Photo via Jennifer Williams Finlan on Facebook.

Courtney Carson, who is scheduled to compete her horse, Bird Is the Word, at Spring Bay this weekend, anticipated the competition being turned into a CT, although the cross country is held at nearby Masterson Station Park and not the Horse Park. Thankfully today, though, it looks like cross country was given the green light to run tomorrow! Cross country is held on Sunday, and the sun is expected to be out today which may help dry the ground a bit.

With all of the rain that’s drenched the area, some of us are surely wondering how the massive amounts of accumulation will affect the cross country course later this month — especially if more rain comes down between now and then. Unfortunately at the latest glance at the forecast, the rain isn’t scheduled to abate anytime soon, save for a dry and sunny weekend. Here’s a look at the upcoming week:

Via weather.com.

Historically, the remainder of April records an average of less than a quarter of an inch of precipitation daily. We’ve been fortunate to have great weather at Rolex, for the most part, the past few years, so here’s hoping that the ground will dry and the rain will let up in time to allow the hard working crew at the Horse Park time to prepare for the arrival of Rolex.

Courtney Carson updated us this morning that Kentucky Horse Park roads are clear of water now, which is a huge relief after seeing the images from yesterday.

Photo via Jen Roytz on Instagram.

The same spot, one hour later. Photo via Jen Roytz on Instagram.

We’ll be keeping an eye on the weather this weekend, and we wish all riders competing at Spring Bay the best of luck, as well as those who live in the Lexington area. Please send us your rain updates, as we’ll continue to update our readers leading up to Rolex. You can send any tips or media to [email protected].

Front entrance of KHP at 6pm. We are pulling out onto Iron Works. What you are seeing is the “in” before the guard shacks

Posted by Lara Knight on Friday, April 3, 2015

Stay dry, EN! Here’s a few more photos of the incredible precipitation pounding Lexington this week.

: Photo via Jen Roytz on Instagram.

: The same spot, one hour later. Photo via Jen Roytz on Instagram.

: Photo via Jennifer Williams Finlin on Facebook.

: Photo via Jennifer Williams Finlin on Facebook.

: Photo via Jenn O’Neill on Facebook.

: Photo via the Spring Bay Horse Trials Facebook page.

: Photo via the Spring Bay Horse Trials Facebook page.

: Photo via the Spring Bay Horse Trials Facebook page.

The Fork CIC3* Cross Country Live Updates: Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda Win

By Sally Spickard on Apr 4, 2015 10:00 am -

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Happy cross country day, EN! It’s going to be a busy day of cross country action, and we’ll be bringing you live updates from both the CIC3* and Advanced divisions thanks to the live radio stream provided by PRO. You can follow along on the radio stream here, and be sure to refresh this page periodically for the latest updates.

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda triumphantly torched the course to come home as the seventh double clear pair to secure their win. The stars have certainly aligned for this pair as they head to Rolex next. We’ll have the full report up shortly!

#TheFork: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram, PRO Tour Radio

12:48 p.m. EST: Fist pump!

12:17 p.m. EST: And that’s the seventh double clear of the division and a WINNER for Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda! Live scores have not updated yet, but Buck Davidson and Reggie were in a close second. We’ll have the full report coming soon!

12:16 p.m. EST: Jennie and Cambalda are home! Waiting on the time.

12:16 p.m. EST: Jennie is heading to the last combination. She’s got 7 seconds in hand to retain her lead.

12:15 p.m. EST: Anyone else make a “Ping” sound whenever they watch Cambalda jump, knowing that’s his barn name? Just me?

12:14 p.m. EST: It’s all Jennie now as Buck crosses the finish double clear. She takes out the flag on the corner in the water but she kicks on. Buck finishes on a 45.7.

12:13 p.m. EST: Buck Davidson and Reggie are on their way home. Jennie Brannigan is approaching the big water. Liz Halliday-Sharp was home clear with time.

12:12 p.m. EST: Jennie Brannigan is clear through 8. Mackenna Shea finishes on a time of 7:48 and 20 jumping.

12:10 p.m. EST: Your leaders Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda are over the first!

12:10 p.m. EST: Sir Rockstar enjoys a well-deserved ice break:

12:08 p.m. EST: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Fernhill By Night are into the splash at 15. They make quick work of it and are clear through there. Buck is clear through 6. Mackenna and Landioso are turning for home.

12:07 p.m. EST: Second placed Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM are on course!

12:07 p.m. EST: Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights still managed to make the time despite their runout, finishing on a 70.3

12:05 p.m. EST: Landioso catches a leg on the corner and Mackenna almost comes out of the saddle. Caused a runout at the jump out as they were a bit off balance but she’s clear on the second attempt.

12:04 p.m. EST: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Fernhill By Night are on their way, in third place overnight.

12:03 p.m. EST: Bummer! Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights have a runout at the cheese wedges at 17. Clear on their second attempt.

12:02 p.m. EST: Great ride at the water for Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights. Marilyn Little and RF Demeter are home with a double clear to remain on a 50.8. #chestnutlightning

12:01 p.m. EST: Mackenna Shea and Landioso are on their way. Marilyn Little is on her way home.

12:00 p.m. EST: Boyd and Master Frisky add 4.4 time for a provisional final of 55.3.

11:59 a.m. EST: Boyd is on his way home with Master Frisky. Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights are on course.

11:56 a.m. EST: Marilyn Little and RF Demeter are on course now. You can anticipate a quick round from these two.

11:55 a.m. EST: Phillip and Fernhill Fugitive have 1.2 time for a provisional total of 52.9. Lynn Symansky is clear through 19. Boyd and Master Frisky are clear through 9.

11:53 a.m. EST: We’re into the top 8 now – pressure’s on!

11:53 a.m. EST: Boyd Martin and Master Frisky are on course. Phillip has two to go.

11:52 a.m. EST: Kurt Martin and Anna Bella are home with just 3.6 time for a three day total of 55.8. Phillip and Fernhill Fugitive are clear through 19, Lynn and Donner clear through 12.

11:49 a.m. EST: Lynn Symansky and The Flying Deer (Donner) are on course.

11:47 a.m. EST: Kurt Martin and Anna Bella are clear through 15 after Kurt had the runout there with Delux Z.

11:47 a.m. EST: Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive are on course.

11:46 a.m. EST: Kelly Prather picks up her second run-out on course at 17.

Fence 17 – PricewaterhouseCoopers Wedges

11:45 a.m. EST:

Beaulieu’s Cayenne looking so impressive. Big cheers from Julie Richards’ team as they cross the finish

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) April 4, 2015

11:44 a.m. EST: Bramham bound Kurt Martin and Anna Bella are on course. Julie Richards and Beaulieu’s Cayenne are home with just 3.6 time.

11:43 a.m. EST: Kelly Prather and Blackfoot Mystery have a glance off at 8. They’re clear on their second attempt. This combination has caused a handful of problems today.

11:41 a.m. EST: Julie Richards is clear through the water at 15. Sharon White and Wundermaske are the fourth double clear of the day to finish on a 56.8.

11:40 a.m. EST: Tim Bourke and Luckaun Quality finish with 20 jumping and some time. Kelly Prather and Blackfoot Mystery are away.

11:38 a.m. EST: Sharon White and Wundermaske very handy through the water at 15.

11:38 a.m. EST: Julie Richards and Beaulieu’s Cayenne are on course now.

11:36 a.m. EST: Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Fly Me Courageous log a double clear! A final provisional score of 62.7 for these two.

11:35 a.m. EST: Tim Bourke just misses his line to the last element at 15 with Luckauan Quality. He’ll reroute to the alternate route and he’s clear on that attempt. Unlucky.

11:35 a.m. EST: Sharon White and Wundermaske are the next on course.

11:34 a.m. EST: Cavallino Cocktail will hitch a ride back on the trailer, it appears she cut her leg a bit but is ok. No hold on course.

11:31 a.m. EST: Timothy Bourke and Luckaun Quality are on course.

11:30 a.m. EST: Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Fly Me Courageous are clear through 8. Caroline and Quantum Solace finished with a time of 7:13, 24 seconds over for 9.6 time.

11:28 a.m. EST: Zach Brandt falls victim to the splash at 15. Both horse and rider are up and appear to be ok. Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Fly Me Courageous are on course.

11:27 a.m. EST: 10.8 time penalties for Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley, no jumping. Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace are on their way to 18.

11:25 a.m. EST: Amanda and Cool Decision are home 26 seconds over time. Caroline Martin with Quantum Solace as well as Zach Brandt and Cavallino Cocktail are on their way. Liz and HHS Cooley are clear through the last combination, on their way home.

11:21 a.m. EST: Amanda Wilson and Cool Decision are good through the splash. Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley are now on course.

11:19 a.m. EST: 8 time for Michael and Walterstown Don for a total provisional of 60.5

11:18 a.m. EST: Update on Pebbly Maximus, he is apparently doing just fine after riding home in the trailer. Great news!

11:17 a.m. EST: Amanda Wilson and Cool Decision are on course. Michael Pollard and Walterstown Don are home with no jumping penalties. Holly Jacks and More Inspiration choose the option at 15.

11:15 a.m. EST: Holly Jacks and More Inspiration have a refusal at 8. They’re clear on the second attempt.

Fence 8 – Land Rover Leap

11:14 a.m. EST: Didn’t hear too much about Colleen’s ride with Shiraz, but they’re home. Holly Jacks and More Inspiration are now on course. Michael Pollard is clear through the splash at 15.

11:12 a.m. EST: Selena O’Hanlon finishes 13 seconds UNDER the time on Foxwood High. How’s that for a double clear? #moversandshakers

11:11 a.m. EST: Michael Pollard and Walterstown Don are the newest starters.

11:09 a.m. EST: Buck Davidson has withdrawn Copper Beech.

11:08 a.m. EST: Jessie and A Little Romance are through the finish 9 seconds over for 3.6 time. That finishes them on a provisional of 61.4. Lovely ride through the splash at 15 for Selena and Foxwood High.

11:07 a.m. EST: Colleen is back on course with Shiraz this time.

11:05 a.m. EST: Good recovery by Jessie Phoenix after a big jump into the water at 15. Showing her experience here. Erin Sylvester stops the clock 3 seconds under, the first double clear of the day!

11:04 a.m. EST: Jessie Phoenix is clear through 10, Erin Sylvester is almost home at 21. Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High are next on course.

11:03 a.m. EST: Phillip and I’m Sew Ready are the quickest with just 1.6 time and a final score of 57.2.

11:01 a.m. EST: Big Phil and I’m Sew Ready are home clear. Erin Sylvester and No Boundaries are clear through the first water at the Turtle Pond. Jessie Phoenix and A Little Romance are on their way.

11:00 a.m. EST: Kelly Prather and Truly Wiley, Becky Holder and Can’t Fire Me and Leslie Law and Zatopek B all withdrew.

10:59 a.m. EST: Erin Sylvester and No Boundaries are on course. They’re heading to Rolex next.

10:58 a.m. EST: A great ride through the water at 15 for Phillip and I’m Sew Ready. Big cheers for the Carolina International CIC3* winners. Kurt Martin and Delux Z are almost home.

10:55 a.m. EST: Kurt Martin and Delux Z have a runout at the water at 15. Libby Head and Sir Rockstar have just 2 time – the best of the day! She will finish on a total of 73.4.

10:54 a.m. EST: Boyd and Crackerjack finish on a 67.3 with 10 time penalties. Phillip and I’m Sew Ready are now on course.

10:52 a.m. EST: Tame Smith and Twizted Syster had a runout at 21. Caitlin was the second fastest of the time, just 6 seconds over. Libby Head and Sir Rockstar as well as Kurt Martin and Delux Z are on course. Libby had one of the best rides so far through the splash.

10:45 a.m. EST: Boyd Martin and Crackerjack are on course. Caitlin is clear through the Turtle Pond.

10:43 a.m. EST: Tamie and Twizted Syster had a very close call at the corner in the water at 15 but she’s got it done! #msstickability

10:43 a.m. EST: We’re back underway with Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster, who is clear through 12. Caitlin Silliman and Catch a Star are now on course.

10:34 a.m. EST: Fence 11 is going to be removed from the course after the ground jury determined it was not riding safely. The striding was rather tight; good decision by the ground jury.

Fence 11 – Uwharrie Bank Hollow

10:30 a.m. EST: Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato have just 2.8 time, the fastest of the day. No horses on course at the moment as Pebbly Maximus is going to be vanned off the course. Word is that he appears to have stung his leg.

10:17 a.m. EST: Caroline Martin has had a fall from Pebbly Maximus at the Hollow at 11. Horse is up and now Caroline is too.

10:25 a.m. EST: Jordan shows off her stickability at the water over the corner and also at the third element but they’re through it and continuing on their way.

10:24 a.m. EST: Colleen and Escot 6 add just 6 time. Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato are clear through 9. Caroline Martin and Pebbly Maximus are on their way.

10:22 a.m. EST: Holly Payne opts for the option at 15 and has a runout, putting her at two so far. Colleen and Escot 6 are home clear, time pending.

10:21 a.m. EST: Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato now on course.

10:20 a.m. EST: 23 seconds over for Buck and The Apprentice, so 9.2 time penalties, no jumping. Holly and Santino have a refusal at 8, the Land Rover Ditch combination. Clear on second attempt.

10:18 a.m. EST: Holly Payne and Santino now on course. Buck sounds like he’s making child’s play of the course as the trailblazer. Colleen and Escot 6 are heading to the water. Clear through there – very clever there.

10:15 a.m. EST: Colleen Rutledge is also riding out of order with her three rides. She’s on course with Escot 6, currently in 36th. Buck and The Apprentice are clear through the tricky water at 15. Takes out the flag on the corner in the water but he’s got it done.

10:11 a.m. EST: First rider is Buck Davidson and The Apprentice. He’s in 15th place after the first two phases. Riders are going in reverse order today, but Buck will be interspersed throughout with his multiple rides. This is one of Buck’s rides aimed at Rolex.

Friday Video from World Equestrian Brands: Flashback Friday Mondial du Lion Footage

By Sally Spickard on Apr 3, 2015 4:30 pm -

Anyone up for a Flashback Friday? We dug up some vintage footage from Mondial du Lion from 1993, courtesy of our YouTube friend, David Robinson.

That year, according to the history page on Mondial du Lion’s website, many European events were cancelled due to heavy amounts of rainfall. Many riders came to Mondial du Lion that year in an attempt to salvage their season, making for an exciting weekend.

Swiss rider Jôrg Bodenmuller with Fancy Hill took home the win that weekend followed by Bettina Overesch (now Hoy) and Green Cotten B.

Check out this great footage for a step back in time to this historic event in France. Happy Friday!

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