EN TRENDS:

Articles Written 4,649

Article Views 12,310,200

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

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By Sally Spickard on Apr 4, 2015 2:30 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!

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!

Watch Dressage Action from The Fork CIC3*

By Sally Spickard on Apr 3, 2015 1:00 pm -

The Horse Pesterer was up all night — or at least his computer was! — uploading videos from yesterday’s dressage tests at The Fork, and now we’ve got enough to keep us distracted for the whole morning. You can view the leading dressage tests in the CIC3* as well as a handful of tests from the CIC2* and Advanced.

Many thanks to The Horse Pesterer for deciding to make the trip to Norwood to bring us his great videos! For the full playlist, check out his YouTube channel here. Stay tuned for more action from today’s show jumping.

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

Rolex Begins to Take Shape at Kentucky Horse Park

By Sally Spickard on Apr 3, 2015 11:00 am -

Course designer Derek Di Grazia and course builder Mick Costello arranging the red cabins around the Head of the Lake.

The Rolex Kentucky Facebook page posted a few photos this morning giving us a sneak peek at the preparations that are underway for the #BestWeekendAllYear at the end of this month. The cross country course is beginning to take shape, as is the Sponsor Village row of the trade fair.

Course designer Derek di Grazia and course builder Mick Costello are hard at work preparing this year’s cross country course. Judging from the placement of the red cabins, which were toward the end of the course in 2014, it looks like we’re definitely in for some changes this year.

Check out this gallery of the course and park preparations, courtesy of the Rolex Kentucky Facebook page. Be sure to follow the page for more updates from Kentucky as we get closer and closer to Rolex 2015!

: Photo via RK3DE on Facebook.

: Photo via RK3DE on Facebook.

: Photo via RK3DE on Facebook.

: Photo via RK3DE on Facebook.

: Photo via RK3DE on Facebook.

: Photo via RK3DE on Facebook.

: Photo via RK3DE on Facebook.

Five Americans Ranked in Top 20 in Latest FEI Rankings

By Sally Spickard on Apr 3, 2015 9:00 am -

Buck Davidson and Park Trader at Fair Hill. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The latest FEI World Eventing Athlete Rankings were released yesterday, and five Americans are in the top 20. It’s no surprise that William Fox-Pitt still holds the top position, followed by Jonelle Price, Michael Jung and Oliver Townend. William’s got a hefty hold on the lead at this point, with 568 points over Jonelle’s 480.

Buck Davidson is the highest ranked U.S. rider on the list in fifth place with 428 points. Both he and Boyd Martin retain the same positions from the last ranking list, with Boyd in seventh position and 400 points, behind Andrew Nicholson.

Phillip Dutton enjoyed a nice bump in the rankings, moving from 19th to 13th thanks to his big win in the CIC3* at Carolina International with John and Kristie Norton’s I’m Sew Ready. Phillip also picked up a sixth in the CIC3* with Fernhill Fugitive and as well as second place in the CIC2* with Mighty Nice.

Marilyn Little dropped a couple of spots but is still in the top 20, going from 16th to 18th in the rankings. Lauren Kieffer is the final U.S. rider in the top 20, moving from 25th to 19th thanks to her win in the CIC3* at Red Hills aboard Czechmate.

Four more American riders are within the top 50: Erin Sylvester (36th), Michael Pollard (46th), Elinor MacPhail (47th), and Sharon White (50th).

[FEI World Eventing Athlete Rankings]

10 Questions with C4 Rider Laine Ashker

By Sally Spickard on Apr 2, 2015 11:00 am -

Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Laine Ashker is gearing up for her return to Rolex this year, her fourth trip with her veteran OTTB partner, Anthony Patch. Laine graciously took a few minutes to answer some of our questions as she prepares her mental game for the upcoming competition. Thank you to Laine for her time, and thank you for reading!

EN: Who who was your riding idol growing up?

Laine: Karen O’Connor, hands down. Obviously Buck is my biggest influence right now, but she has been my riding idol ever since I was a little girl. She’s ridden horses as big as Biko and as small as Teddy, and I think she is one of the most fierce competitors there is.

I was at Red Hills when I was about 17 in the two-star, and I was riding back from finishing cross country. She passed me and asked what my time was. I said I was a couple seconds over and she said, ‘Ok I have to beat that.’ The fact that she was competitive with someone like me, who was a nobody — I took it as a compliment!

EN: What was it about Anthony Patch that made you think he’s the real deal?

Laine: Four-star is a bit of luck. You can have something with talent, but if they don’t have heart they just aren’t going to do it. Al had great movement on the lunge and he was exactly my sort of type. But I have to say, it took me four two-stars to get a qualifying score. It took me awhile to figure out how to ride him.

The biggest thing with him is to build a relationship. We haven’t had success because I’m an amazing rider but because of our relationship. Any success that we’ve had is a direct result of that.

I’ve stuck with him over his freakouts over cows, which got to be almost dangerous at times. He trusts me and I trust him — that counts for 90% of it. What I saw was typical of any horse — he was obviously talented and looked like an event horse but it wasn’t really until I started building a relationship that I had success with him.

EN: What is the biggest piece of advice you’ve received for your career?

Laine: I’m a very mental rider, probably a result of things that have happened, and my head game gets in the way of my physical game. Buck always tells me to go in and take a deep breath. There’s so many ups and downs in this sport, and I’ve found that in riding, you take one step forward and three steps back.

So always remember to take that deep breath. Take one thing at a time — take one jump at a time and one day at a time. It’s something we always have to remember.

EN: What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Laine: Coming back to Rolex in 2010 and finishing in the top 15 with Al. It was coming back and tackling after the experience that I had (in 2008) and being able to overcome so many different fears and things that were blocking me.

The fact that he placed well was secondary — it was getting through those finish flags and realizing that I can do this. I’ve made mistakes as a rider, but we battled those demons and just beat them. It just was reaffirmation that we belonged and that I could do it. Winning the AECs was amazing as well and his career has been incredible, but the one thing that stands out is that year at Rolex.

EN: Did you always want to go back to Rolex after your accident?

Laine: It was always me thinking, ‘I have to get back on.’ It really wasn’t until after the end of 2008 when I ended up getting nervous, and I called Buck and said ‘I don’t think I want to do this anymore.’

It was the mental part. I did Intermediate the whole spring and one Advanced before the three-star at Jersey Fresh, and once I sort of got back into it and ignored everything it felt better. I did no interviews for two years, it was just that reading everything and being a part of social media made it so much harder.

I was able to find the fun again and figure out why I do this. I don’t do it to impress anyone. I do love being a face and role model but why I do it is because I love the horses and I love the people. I’ve had a lot of support from my own peers and I had to just find solace in my horses and in myself and do some deep soul searching.

Going back to Kentucky was the hardest thing I’ll ever have to do, but I am a true believer in learning from every mistake. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, which is unfortunately very cliché for me. I have learned, and fortunately I had to learn the hard way and my horse had to learn the hardest way. I’ve wanted to make sure that whatever happens, I learn from it.

I will make mistakes in the future but I was able to take away from that. I am maybe a more mental rider now. Without the support of my family and my coach it would have been impossible but I already had a great horse in Al and I had my mom there with me. I had a couple of mental breakdowns but, like Buck told me, I took one breath at a time and lo and behold got through the finish line. I wasn’t there to make time or to win. I was just there to do what I knew I could do.

If you read what people are saying bad about you — and that’s the responsibility that anyone at this level has — you will accept the consequences of people being upset. That’s the sort of thing you have to expect. I was sort of thrust into that position from the accident. I didn’t go from being a star to being a fallen star; I had to build my way back up. I did it through being quiet and using social media as a positive thing.

Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch triumphant at Millbrook 2014. Photo by Jenni Autry.

EN: If you weren’t riding what would you be doing?

Laine: I would be doing something in high fashion, probably living in a little cubicle in New York but loving it. I love fashion and makeup. I love the trot ups because you can really express your individuality.

My family is big into music; my dad had a studio and my mom was a recording artist. We’ve both sung the national anthem at sporting events. I love fast paced life, which is why I thrive on eventing. I like being the spokesperson for something, so music or fashion would be my choice.

EN: Speaking of fashion, do you already have your Rolex trot up outfits planned?

Laine: I’ve got my first one already planned out, my second one is still being planned. You never know because of the weather. I am so proud of myself — I’ve been working on what makes me tick and ride the best, and for me feeling confident in myself is fun so I’ve take it upon myself to lose some weight. Not only because my horses are small, but if I feel more confident in myself then I ride better. I’m hoping to get a couple size smaller pants for Rolex, so that will be my reward to myself. Just feeling better about myself and feeling confident helps me perform better.

EN: What kind of advice do you give a student getting ready to do their first cross country course?

Laine: If it’s their first event, we school harder at home so that at the event, in theory, it should be easier. The first one is the last thing to leave the flags is your shoulders — keep your shoulders back. I also preach warrior mentality. But you have to have fun. That is why we do this sport, for the fun — especially for a first timer.

EN: What horse would you take a spin on, past or present?

Laine: I’m a big fan of Barb’s horse Everready! I love that she bred him, and he looks like a really fun horse to ride. I would also love to ride Totilas’ extended trot just one time just to feel that sort of grandeur and power and to feel what it’s supposed to feel like.

EN: What are your favorite things about C4?

Laine: C4 has been a great supporter. I love that we can customize our colors and let our personalities out. I plan to do a logo design with my new logo, so keep an eye out for that! I love that it’s for a good cause, and I’m big sort of organic person and so it’s graet that they’re made with recyclable materials. Thinking green and going green is the way to go.

If you love C4 as much as Laine does, then you’ll want to take advantage of this month’s exclusive EN discount! Simply enter the code C4Lainey to receive 10% off your order, a free bonus buckle, and free shipping! This promo code is good for the entire month of April, so stock up while you can! Click the banner below to start shopping.

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Throwing Back to The Fork 2014

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

We thought we’d take a walk down memory lane with another great video from RNS Video. This montage gives us a look at the CIC3* competitors as the tackle a tough water complex. There’s so much education in these videos, and it’s a great way to get pumped for the final Rolex prep for many of the riders competing this weekend.

EN will be on the ground covering The Fork this weekend, beginning tomorrow, so stay tuned for much more from North Carolina! Thank you to RNS Video for the great service they provide!

The horse that matters to you matters to us®.

Click here to sign up for KPP’s nutritional minute.

Join other horse lovers who receive monthly:

Fast facts on horse nutrition and care

Informational “tips and topics” articles

Educational infographic downloads

Fun cartoons

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

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

Evention TV Announces ‘Real World: Aussies in America’

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

America won't know what hit it ...

After a successful run of Evention’s popular Along for the Ride series on Horse & Country TV, creators Dom and Jimmie Schramm have announced that they’ve signed a deal with MTV to launch a new spinoff of the Real World reality television series called Aussies in America.

MTV Head of Programming David Janollari told EN that after his niece, who events, sent him a link to Along for the Ride and explained that a number of Australians live in America to compete in the sport, he realized the Aussie eventers would make ideal reality TV stars.

“We loved the idea of featuring the Australian accents and weird food. Vegemite alone could open whole new doors for the American food industry, so our advertisers have embraced the idea enthusiastically,” David said.

Cast members were revealed today: Dom Schramm, Boyd Martin, Phillip Dutton, Kate Chadderton and Ryan Wood will all be living in a converted barn in the Pennsylvania countryside for six months during filming.

“I’m really excited to be taking Evention further into the reality TV world,” Evention producer Dom Schramm said. “Who doesn’t love a bunch of Australian accents living under the same roof? It’s promising to be the most dramatic, entertaining and memorable series to hit TV in many years.”

Country charm? The converted barn the Aussies in America housemates will be living in.

While Real World housemates have traditionally lived in more upscale accommodations, the Aussies in America cast members have been relegated to a converted old barn in order for the show to appeal to the equestrian market.

“I’m lobbying for a big mansion, but MTV seems to think we can all just coexist in this converted barn. We’ll just put Boyd in the hayloft with his cats. I think everything will be fine then,” Dom continued.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a good reality TV show without a little controversy. Dom’s wife and co-producer of Evention, Jimmie Schramm, said there’s no telling what trouble the Aussies will get up to when they’re all under one roof: “I don’t think MTV knows what they’re getting into!”

Fellow eventer Kate Chadderton said she hopes to use Aussies in America as her springboard to reality TV fame after being rejected by The Bachelor. The hit ABC show announced last night that the EN Chinchilla will star on the show next season.

“I originally signed up for The Bachelor, but they apparently don’t accept eventers because of the high-risk nature of the sport and something about ‘mental illness.’ I’m glad MTV is much more open-minded, and I hope this will be my stepping stone to fame,” she said.

Kate also added: “I’m not really a cat person, and I know Boyd won’t travel without his cats, but I guess I can deal.”

Veteran competitor Phillip Dutton seems less enthused about the project: “I don’t understand why they want us all to live in the same house,” he said. “I don’t have time for this.”

They’re smiling now …

Boyd Martin said he is looking forward to filming the show knowing he can bring his cats, Manny Pacquiao and Kostya Tszyu, into the house. “As long as I can bring my cats, I’ll be fine,” Boyd said. “We’ll see how this living with Schrammo thing goes.”

Meanwhile, Ryan Wood has already warned his family and sponsors not to watch the show. “You’re about to see a side of Ryan Wood you’ve never seen before,” he said. “You’ve been warned.”

A release date for Aussies In America has yet to be announced. The riders will all continue their preparations for the big summer events, and we’ve been told MTV is finalizing plans to follow the cast with film crews at Rolex next month.

Stay tuned for more details on Aussies in America — get your DVRs ready!

Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: Burgham International CIC3* Cross Country

By Sally Spickard on Mar 31, 2015 5:00 pm -

The Owen Pugh CIC3* at Burgham International Horse Trials ran this past weekend in the UK, and it was Gemma Tattersalls and Chico Bella P who took home the win over Ireland’s Sarah Ennis and Stellor Rebound. Gemma had a very successful weekend overall, though, also picking up third place aboard Arctic Soul.

Several big players on the European circuit were out for this event, such as Joseph Murphy and his WEG mount, Electric Cruise, Camila Spears and Portersize Just A Jiff, and Paul Tapner with Yogi Bear VIII.

In the Howard Russell CIC2*, Rolex bound Nicole Wilson and Annie Clover took home the win with just 2.4 time added on cross country. Nicola’s other mount on the Rolex entry list, Watermill Vision, also contested the CIC2*, finishing in sixth place.

Burgham International: [Website] [Scores]

Elite Eventing has just posted cross country footage from the CIC3* as their first event of 2015, and it’s a great one! Check out the action from across the pond in the video above.

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.

West Coast Riders Begin East Coast Journeys

By Sally Spickard on Mar 31, 2015 3:00 pm -

California horses all tucked in at The Fork. Photo via Mackenna Shea on Facebook.

The West Coast riders who will be campaigning on the East Coast this spring have begun preparing for their long trips, and many have already arrived safely at their destinations.

It’s an admirable trip, trekking across the country and leaving your life and business back at home. Fortunately, West Coasters know how to do things right, so they’ve all got game plans in place to make their trips as stress free as possible.

Mackenna Shea has been keeping us up to date on her road trip progress, having safely arrived with a full load of horses at The Fork in North Carolina this week.

Mai Baum, Landioso, and Fleur de Lis tucked away for the road trip. Photo via Mackenna Shea on Facebook.

Alex Ahearn’s Mai Baum, Mackenna Shea’s Landioso, and and the Team Milton Syndicate’s Fleur de Lis tucked away for the road trip. Photo via Mackenna Shea on Facebook.

We’re sure Mackenna and her crew were relieved to see their final state sign as they crossed into North Carolina. Mackenna is aiming for her first CCI4* at Rolex at the end of April, so that will be her next stop on her East Coast trip. Tamie’s rides will compete at The Fork and then are aimed for Jersey Fresh at the beginning of May.

Photo via Mackenna Shea on Facebook.

Jen McFall packed up the “Billy Bus” to hit the road and posted a photo on her and Earl’s Facebook page. High Times (Billy) and company are certainly traveling in style!

Jordan Linstedt made her trip from Washington a bit earlier in the year, competing in Florida and Georgia in preparation for Kentucky. We’re sure she’s glad she’s already made the big drive, although the drive home is always the worst part of any trip — especially one as exciting as this one!

Photo via Jordan Linstedt on Facebook.

As Rolex draws ever closer, we’re very excited to see so many West Coast riders and supporters heading East. It’s turning out to be an exciting year so far, and we can’t wait to see what has yet to come.

Go West Coast Eventing!

SmartPak Presents: ‘If Horses Were People, Picture Taking Edition’

By Sally Spickard on Mar 31, 2015 1:00 pm -

If only our horses understood the importance of selfie-taking or conformation shots. Our lives would be much easier, right? SmartPak understands the struggle we all go through with a horse who just knows they have better things to do than stand patiently for the perfect photo.

SmartPak just released the latest version of their “If Horses Were People” video series, and it’s one I think we all can relate to! This is Part I of the picture taking edition — we can’t wait to see what Part II has in store!

Check out SmartPak’s YouTube channel here for more hilarious videos. Go SmartPak!

Rolex Rookies: Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming

By Sally Spickard on Mar 31, 2015 11:00 am -

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!

Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming at the 2015 Eventing Prix Invitational. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Lisa Barry found herself frustrated after a horse shopping trip to Europe left her with significantly less money and no horse to bring home with her. Donna Smith, whom Lisa had worked for briefly in New Zealand, had called before the European trip with a tip on a new horse off the track that was showing potential for upper level eventing.

“(Donna) told me I should come down to take a look, but I just couldn’t make the trip work on shorter notice. It was too expensive,” Lisa recalled. “After I came back from Europe, she told me she still had the horse, who was about six months off the track at that point. She’d run him at two Prelims [U.S. Novice] and said it was just a walk in the park for him.”

Lisa still couldn’t make a physical trip to New Zealand work, so she asked Donna to send her a video of the horse, which she obliged. “She just sent me a video on her phone of him on a Parelli line hopping over fences, and I said, ‘Oh — I see what she’s talking about now.'”

Lisa had her new prospect vetted just from the video, something she’d never done before. Before too long, the small but mighty New Zealand Thoroughbred, F.I.S. Prince Charming, who was four at the time, was on his way to America.

“When he first got off the trailer, I was a little nervous,” Lisa laughed. “He’s small. He’s just really low in his back, so it feels like you’re riding a pony. But when he jumps like that, how can I say no?”

After being imported in 2008, Lisa gave “Peanut” about a year to really settle into life in his new home, understanding that coming from overseas can really turn one’s world upside down. Lisa began competing Peanut in 2009, bringing him out at Novice at Waredaca where he finished in 11th on his dressage score.

Two years later, Lisa and Peanut had climbed up to the Intermediate level and Lisa began working towards an Advanced move-up with her diminutive mount. “With the jumping, once he figured out that he didn’t have to jump the standards he was just awesome,” she said. “He tries so hard every time. Cross country is his favorite; he gives me so much confidence because he’s just so game.”

“He’s very strong for a little horse, so we’ve had to figure out the best bitting options for him, but he’s so adjustable which is a change since my last three-star horse, Kenzo, was a freight train. But Peanut is a bit of a machine, and he’s there for me when I make mistakes. He just never stops trying.”

Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming at Jersey Fresh. Photo by Sally Spickard

The pair moved up to Advanced in 2012 and went on to complete the CCI3* at Bromont and at Fair Hill in 2014. “I like the way Derek (di Grazia) designs his courses,” she said of her experience over his bigger tracks. “I find that he certainly gives us enough to do but also keeps in mind that the horses need to catch their breath. I know that Kentucky will be beefier, and I hope his style continues in that the horses can use a gallop fence as a breather.”

“I think my horse has done well with the courses he’s jumped in the past; it will certainly be the biggest track he’s seen so far but he’s been great and I hope that continues.”

Lisa knows that the dressage will be the biggest challenge for her — she’s not the only one who will be breathing a sign of relief after her final halt. “I’m really hoping we don’t go towards the end of the day on Friday when there will be a lot of people there. He’s never been in an atmosphere like that. It will be interesting to see how he does with ring familiarization and coming down the chute. I’m interested to see if he’s impressed by it.“

Coming to Rolex has been a goal of Lisa’s for as long as she can remember. “I’ve gone literally every year except maybe two,” she said. “My mom used to go before she really knew what eventing was. I think I’ve got pictures of myself in a stroller at Rolex as 2-year-old. I groomed for Holly Hepp (Hudspeth) when she had Lester Piggott there when I was 17, and at that point you walk around and just see how big everything is.”

“I remember my mom telling people around us that someday her daughter would be here — and she meant it! I’ve had a few horses that I thought would make it there, but I’m a big believer in everything happening for a reason. I think years ago I would have been really intimidated. Now I have more experience, and of course I’m still intimidated but I don’t feel panicked.“

Lisa and Peanut are entered in the Advanced at The Fork this weekend for their final prep before heading to Kentucky. We wish both Lisa and F.I.S. Prince Charming the best of luck in their four-star debut!

Julie Norman Goes Wire to Wire in Texas + Other Scores

By Sally Spickard on Mar 29, 2015 5:00 pm -

Julie Norman and Consensus. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Three Rolex bound pairs contested the Advanced division at the Texas Rose March HT this weekend, and it was Julie Norman and Consensus who led from start to take home the blue ribbon in their final prep run for Kentucky.

Julie found herself in the lead with “Thomas” after scoring a 31.8 in the dressage and didn’t look back, accumulating 6.4 time penalties across country today to secure her win. Alyssa Phillips and Bliss III finished second on the weekend on a final score of 40.5. This was Alyssa and Bliss III’s second Advanced together, so they’ll be thrilled with this solid finish.

In third place in the Texas Rose Advanced are Rolex Rookies Angela Grzywinski and Novelle, who moved up from fifth to third with just 4.8 time on cross country today. Also headed to Rolex, Ellen Doughty-Hume and Sir Oberon finished their weekend in fourth place with a final score of 46.9.

Texas Rose Horse Park H.T. [Website] [Omnibus] [Live Scores]

Rocking Horse hosted their spring event this weekend, running divisions from Tadpole all the way up to Intermediate — a busy weekend for the Florida eventers! Kelly Prather and Blackfoot Mystery are your Open Intermediate winners, moving up from fourth to take the win after cross country. Kelly and Blackfoot Mystery will tackle the CIC3* at The Fork next weekend.

In second place are Lisa Marie Fergusson and Honor Me, who jumped from seventh to second with the only double clear cross country run of the division. These two finished on a 31.3 for second place over Diana Burnett and Diamond Cut III, who picked up six time penalties on cross country to relinquish their overnight lead.

Canada’s Jessie Phoenix rounds out the top five in the Open Intermediate with Abbey GS and Bentleys Best, respectively. These two finished on a 33.0 and a 36.1 to move up a few spots to fourth and fifth to end the weekend.

Rocking Horse Spring H.T. [Website] [Omnibus] [Live Scores]

Topping the Intermediate Rider division at Rocking Horse is Sable Giesler and Devil Munchkin, who steadily moved up throughout the weekend to clinch first place on a double clear cross country. This pair ended their weekend, Devil Munchkin’s first complete Intermediate, on a final score of 30.8.

Bailey Moran and Loughnatousa Caislean moved up from fourth to second, also with a double clear cross country, to finish on a weekend total of 34.6. Bailey and Loughnatousa Caislean are eyeing a move back up to Advanced after ending their debut early last month but have been taking the time to ensure their confidence is at a peak when they pull the trigger again. It certainly looks like these two are meshing well and will be ready to step back up to the big A in no time.

Rounding out the top three in the IR are Sarah Dunkerton and Old Man Moel who also logged a double clear to finish on a final score of 39.4.

The course proved to be very tricky for the IR division, with five riders completing, four eliminated and one falling.

Nicole Doolittle and Tops are the winners of the Intermediate division at Full Gallop, which ran its March II event this weekend. Nicole and Tops led from start to finish, adding just two time penalties to their dressage score for a total of 26.6.

Lindsay Mahon and Playtime finished in second place for the weekend, moving up from third after show jumping for a weekend final of 49.4. This was the first Intermediate start of the year for this pair, who has collected two fourth place finishes at Preliminary so far in 2015.

Kelli Temple and Matilda complete the division in third place. This pair is also contesting their first Intermediate of 2015 together; most recently the mare finished second in the Prelim at Pine Top.

Full Gallop March II H.T. [Website] [Omnibus] [Live Scores]

Vote for Your Favorite Rolex Ticket Art, Presented by Tipperary

By Sally Spickard on Mar 29, 2015 3:00 pm -

Photo by Lenore Threlkeld.

We asked you to come with a creative, EN style way to show off your Rolex tickets for a chance to win a T-series helmet from Tipperary, and you certainly delivered! We can tell you’re all itching to get to Rolex as much as Chinch is hankering for a William Fox-Pitt autograph.

It was a tough job, but we’ve narrowed the field down to five finalists, and we need your help deciding on the winner! Check out our finalists below and cast your vote for the winner. Voting will end on Friday, April 3 at 5 p.m. EST, and we’ll announce the winner in Saturday’s News & Notes.

Happy voting, and good luck to our finalists!

Kerry Parker:

Submitted by Kerry Parker.

Susanne Lamborn:

Submitted by Susanne Lamborn.

Dawn Briand:

Submitted by Dawn Briand.

Audra Alland:

Submitted by Audra Alland.

Anna Suhl:

Submitted by Anna Suhl.

Watch Galway Downs Cross Country Highlights and Press Conference Video

By Sally Spickard on Mar 29, 2015 11:00 am -

The FEI divisions at Galway Downs wrapped up yesterday, with Rolex-bound James Alliston and Tivoli taking home the top spot after a double clear cross country run. Barb Carbo and Over Easy won the CIC2* and Heather Morris and Russell’s Reserve conquered the CIC*.

A few of the FEI top finishers provided their thoughts on cross country day in a post-ride press conference, commenting that Ian Stark’s course did exactly what it needed to this weekend. Rolex Rookie John Michael Durr said his mare really jumped well over the course, even though he’s still battling some nerves leading up to his CCI4* debut.

Jolie Wentworth, who is returning to Kentucky this year with Goodknight, also said she was thrilled with how her weekend went. “I feel like I have kind of really come back now,” she said of her comeback tour after giving birth to her first daughter. “I’ve had all winter and now all spring and I’ve kind of gotten my legs back underneath me now, and it feels great.”

You can hear more of the riders’ thoughts on cross country day below. We’d like to thank Ride On Video and Frankie Thieriot for all of their hard work this weekend. The highlight videos are a great way to keep abreast of the action, and we really appreciate all of the effort made by the Ride On team and Frankie.

Go Galway!

Galway Downs H.T. & CIC [Website] [Omnibus] [Live Scores]

A Horse of a Different Color: Artistic Flaire

By Sally Spickard on Mar 29, 2015 9:00 am -

Claire Jan and Artistic Flaire. Photo courtesy of Captured Moment Photography.

Claire Jan wasn’t shopping for an upper level horse when she first met Artistic Flaire, a 14.2 Morgan gelding. Claire was 11 when she found “Ace” in 2009 as a 5-year-old, and it’s been a journey she’ll never forget ever since she brought him home.

“I was just looking for a good first horse,” Claire recalled. “I was not by any means ready to bring a horse up through the levels. But we went and tried him and it was just one of those cliche moments where I knew it was right.”

Ace has just started jumping, competing in two Novice events before Claire purchased him. They began their career in 2009 together at the Beginner Novice level, finishing fourth on their dressage score in their first recognized event.

“When we got Ace, we were told he’d probably go Training level,” Claire said. “It’s just the way he is; he’s a good jumper and he’s cute but he’s got pony gaits. He doesn’t have a super fancy trot. We just kind of thought he’d be a good, safe first horse.”

Claire and Ace took their time, solidifying their partnership before attempting to move up. Their move up to Training level in 2011 wasn’t without its bumps, but Claire and Ace pressed on and their results began to improve. “When we moved up, it went really well but then we started to have some problems,” Claire said. “We just kept working through everything, and once we did it’s like everything began clicking for us.”

Claire went on to complete two T3Ds with her pony, and she was thrilled to find that he seemed not to find anything impressive or difficult. Claire was beginning to realize that Training may not be the limit for her special gelding.

She intended to continue moving up the levels, and once she had moved Ace up to Training level she began shopping for a horse who could go higher, remembering what she had been told about her pony only being able to go so far. The horse buying process didn’t turn up anything for Claire, so she instead decided to give Ace a shot and see how far he wanted to go.

“I went to California to be a working student for James and Taren Atkinson, and we sat down and talked about our future plans,” Claire recalled. “We made the decision to go ahead and try for Prelim.“

Photo courtesy of Captured Moments Photography.

Photo courtesy of Captured Moment Photography.

Claie and Ace moved up to Prelim in 2013 at Copper Meadows, finishing seventh after adding just time and a pair of rails in the show jumping. If nothing else, Claire was sitting on a horse who was always up for a challenge.

“He really enjoys stepping up to the plate,” she said. “It’s just his personality. He loves to please. It really helps that he is so game and honest; even when he is a little unsure, he still is always honest and tries his little heart out to make it work.”

Since their move up, Claire and Ace have completed seven Prelims, two CCI*s and one CIC* — very impressive for a 14.2 pony who was only supposed to go Training level. Ace wasn’t done showing what he had yet, though, and he and Claire completed their first Intermediate earlier this month at Copper Meadows.

“I’m extremely happy with how it went,” Claire said. “On paper, it doesn’t look like it was as successful of a weekend as it was. He was so obedient in the dressage, he scored very well. On cross country, it never felt hairy or backed off. It was like he just went out there and told me to hang on. Show jumping was a lot of rider error. I think the mental game of it all got to me, and we had five rails. I just didn’t ride him the way I should have.”

From here, Claire plans to do the CIC* at Twin Rivers the second weekend of April and plans to continue getting mileage at the Intermediate level. Claire’s also hoping to make the trip to the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships in Kentucky this summer at the CCI* level representing Area 9.

“I want to focus on getting more experience now, and then we’ll see if maybe a two-star isn’t out of the question,” Claire said. “I think it would be awesome if he could do more — and I think he could — but we’re just taking it one day at a time.”

Claire knows the game is very much mental when it comes to piloting a pony around a cross country course where the jumps often rival him in size. “I remember my first Prelim, I was walking the course and I thought ‘Wow, this jump is bigger than him,'” she said. “I have to trust that he is smart enough to take care of himself.”

“If he thinks he can’t make it, I think we’re both smart enough to realize it. But it is a bit intimidating to gallop down to something that is wider than your horse or getting up there and his shoulder is about where the top of the jump is. But he’s quick and agile, and he can get himself out of a lot of sticky situations.”

Claire trains out of Utah, where she returned after her working student stint concluded. Training with longtime coach Robin Sundeen, Claire is enjoying her time flying high aboard her little pony who could.

Saturday Videos: Catch Up on Galway Downs Action

By Sally Spickard on Mar 28, 2015 5:00 pm -

The FEI divisions at Galway Downs are in full swing, and our newest team member, Stephanie, is on the grounds covering the CIC2* and CIC3*. These divisions are preparing to tackle Ian Stark’s cross country course this afternoon, so stay tuned for full reports from those divisions as they wrap up their weekend.

Ride On Video and Frankie Thieriot have been hard at work as well, putting together some excellent video recaps from the action so far. You can catch up on the dressage and show jumping phases in these videos.

Many thanks to Ride On Video and Frankie for these great recaps! Go Galway.

Galway Downs H.T. & CIC [Website] [Omnibus] [Live Scores]

The Event College Returning to Rolex in 2015

By Sally Spickard on Mar 28, 2015 3:00 pm -

Max Corcoran, one of last year's Event College presenters, educates the masses in a clinic. Photo courtesy of Mary Beth Herbert.

After a successful seminar at Rolex in 2014, the USEA announced that The Event College, an educational seminar presented by the USEA’s Professional Horseman’s Council, will be returning to Kentucky this year.

The Event College is a specially designed educational series held in conjunction with Rolex Kentucky and is designed to educate the general public about the sport of three-day eventing.

“Tuition” for The Event College is free, and participants will meet the designated speaker at specified locations around the horse park throughout the event. Education will be provided during each phase of competition in 15 minute segments.

Last year’s speakers included Sinead Halpin, Max Corcoran, Leslie Law, Karen O’Connor, and many more well-known professionals. This year’s lineup is sure to be just as impressive. We’ll provide more updates on the schedule, speakers, and sign-up process as they become available. This is a great opportunity for both eventing rookies and veterans alike!

[USEA Announces Return of Event College]

Friday Videos from World Equestrian Brands: Phillip Dutton Recaps Carolina International

By Sally Spickard on Mar 27, 2015 5:00 pm -

Phillip Dutton capped off a successful weekend at the Cloud 11 – Gavilan North LLC Carolina International with a CIC3* win aboard Jim and Kristie Norton’s I’m Sew Ready. He took a few moments to chat with commentator Karen O’Connor after his final cross country ride of the day. You can view footage of his rides on the USEF Network, along with every other ride from the CIC3* that weekend, by clicking here.

[Carolina International Coverage]

In the meantime, check out Phillip’s winning weekend aboard I’m Sew Ready below:

Snag a Working Student Job with These Listings [Updated 3/27]

By Sally Spickard on Mar 27, 2015 3:00 pm -

Working students have all the ... fun? Photo by Meg Kep.

With the spring season reaching full swing, many eventers are beginning the search for working students once again. Working students are an essential part of any equine operation, involving themselves in the day to day work that goes into maintaining top horses.

Working for a rider affords you the opportunity to learn from a professional while also building your resume and sense of responsibility. It’s hard work, that’s no question! In the end, though, you’ll walk away with one of the best character building experiences of your life. We’ll be updating this post throughout the next few weeks as new listings are added.

Riders and trainers: If you are searching for a working student or groom, please email [email protected] so we can add your listing to our post.

Go Working Students!

Open Working Student Positions

Bascule Farm/Lillian Heard/Dick and Julie Hagen (MD): We have a very successful year long resident student program. We are currently looking for a strong novice level or above rider to be sponsored to compete young and more advanced horses in starter and recognized trials in 2015. Housing, field board for one horse, 4 lessons a week, competitions/hauling/coaching and $100/wk. Check out our website and fill out an application if interested in interviewing.

Hawley Bennett (CA): Hawley Bennett Eventing is looking for a working student to start as soon as possible. Things have gotten extra busy and we’d love the help! Contact h[email protected] for more information.

Kyle and Jen Carter (FL): We are looking for a barn manager and also have an opening for a working student, both starting in April. We have a busy event barn with horses from green thru CCI****, learn all aspects of the business from selling to training and competing. Accommodations plus room for one horse. Minimum of 6 month commitment. Please email at [email protected].

C Square Farm/Courtney Cooper (PA): C Square Farm has a long term working student position available starting at the end of March in Nottingham, Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, our awesome Aiken working student will be pursuing other life adventures after selling her horse and will not be joining us back home. This position will teach you the ins-and-outs of running a successful horse business as well as lessons from Advanced-level event rider Courtney Cooper. Room and housing is provided and could include board for one horse. You do not need your own horse though, opportunities to ride other horses based on your ability may be available. A positive attitude and a great character are required. Please contact Courtney and her team at [email protected] for more information.

Buck Davidson/Andrea Leatherman Davidson (PA/FL): We have another opening for a working student! Andrea is currently looking for someone to join her and her husband’s incredible team. Must be motivated, hard working, and a great personality. Andrea and Buck work together so the working student will become a part of a large, fast pace and rewarding program. For more information click here.

Mara DePuy (SC/VA): Mara DePuy has an immediate opening for a working student in Aiken, SC until March, when they will move north to Round Hill, VA. Fantastic opportunity for one-on-one education from one of the best. More details and contact information can be found at MaraDepuyeventing.com

Destination Farm/Natalie Hollis/Suz Cornue (MD): We have an opening for a working student starting in July. Working students receive lessons, housing, stall board for 1 horse, shipping to events, and coaching at events in exchange for doing barn work, general farm upkeep, grooming at home and shows, and riding horses in our program. Own horse not required. Working students generally ride 3 horses a day. 6 month minimum commitment, but will sometimes take on shorter term help for the summer. We are located in Dickerson, MD- very close to many Area II events and places to XC school. Facilities include 30 stalls with indoor and outdoor ring, grass jumping field, and great hacking/conditioning/trails. More information at www.destinationeventing.com. Contact [email protected].

Elysian Hills Equestrian Center (VA): Elysian Hills Equestrian Center is looking for working students for the summer of 2015 or long term. Working students at Elysian Hills spend much more time in the saddle than the average working student, often getting several lessons each day. In addition to caring for the boarders, horses in training, and breeding stock, working students are responsible for riding several horses a day that vary in experience from green broke to seasoned horses who have competed through intermediate. Working students have the opportunity to take lessons from renowned international event riders on a weekly basis, as well as compete in local and recognized shows throughout the area. There is no minimum age for the position, but working students must be responsible, independent, and self-motivated. This the perfect opportunity for dedicated riders who do not have the finances to back them. Students may choose to live in a shared apartment on the farm or commute. There is a possibility to bring your own horse. Please Contact Lucy Gordon at [email protected] for more information.

Sinead Halpin (FL/NC): We at Sinead Halpin Eventing are looking for a working student to start right away in Florida. We will be in Ocala till the third week in March then head to North Carolina until Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Perks of the job… great horses, great people, plenty of lessons and competitions BUT this is a HARD job with long hours, little sleep and requires a self-motivated dedicated applicant. Please email me at [email protected] if you are interested.

Allie Knowles (KY): Alexandra Knowles Eventing is in need of one or two driven and motivated working students! AKE is a team-oriented farm so we are looking for team players, ready and willing to work and learn. Room, board, and lessons are provided. The farm is located in Paris, KY- just 25 miles from the Kentucky Horse Park! If you have any additional questions or are interested please e-mail Allie at [email protected] or check out akeventing.com

Kelli Temple (VA): Working student position for Kelly Temple Eventing opening April 1. Come work and train with Olympic rider, Kelli McMullen Temple – We are looking for a motivated, energetic and enthusiastic student who’s interest is in eventing. Position requires 6 days of work in exchange for board of one horse, lessons, coaching and transport to shows. We are located just outside of Middleburg, VA on a 60 acre farm with an outdoor jumping ring, covered arena and full x-country schooling course. Our team prides itself on individual attention and a positive learning environment – ideal for the dedicated rider. For more info pls contact Kelli at [email protected] or visit our website – www.kellitempleeventing.com.

Kismet Farm/Tracy Bowman/Jolie Wentworth (CA): Top California event barn, Kismet Farms, is looking for an eager working student for the 2015 season. Responsibilities to include barn chores (no mucking!), turn outs, and riding. Working student will receive frequent lessons with head trainer Tracy Bowman and 4 star rider Jolie Wentworth. Plenty of horses in the barn to ride if you don’t bring your own, but personal horses also welcome. Plenty of learning, schooling, and showing possibilities and plenty of saddle time! Modest living accommodations provided. Please contact Tracy for additional details at 925-917-3276, [email protected] or visit www.kismetfarms.net.

Jeffrey Kohler – Combined Driving (Ontario): Working Student position available at Relhok Farm Barrie Ontario. Full service training facility for riding, pleasure and combined driving, specializing in ponies. 22 stalls, wash stall, 2 grooming stalls, tack room/viewing room, 70×180 indoor, 100mx40m outdoor ring, 135 acres with hacking. Looking for ambitious, self starting, reliable and dedicated working student. Responsibilities to include stalls, grooming, turnout, tack cleaning, feeding, light lawn care etc. Different arrangements available from onsite apartment to living off site. Stall available for student’s horse or pony. Opportunity to ride and for carriage driving. Travel to shows all over Ontario and the US training/coaching in carriage driving. Availability to show if qualified — on the line, under saddle and Carriage Driving. Please contact Jeffrey Kohler at [email protected].

Caroline Martin (FL): Full time groom needed for private yard in Spirngtown, PA and Ocala, FL (six months spent at each base) with a great string of upper level event horses competing internationally. Need someone who is knowledgeable of all aspects of horse care and show care. For more information, please contact Caroline Martin.

Sean McQuillan (VA): McQuillan Equestrian is looking for a special candidate to fill their open working student position starting in March. Located at Kilfinnan Stables in Warrenton, VA, McQuillan Equestrian is dedicated to the sport of eventing and providing top-level training to both horses and riders. Our ideal candidate has a good work ethic, strong time-management skills and a keen interest in learning, as well as their own method of transportation. You must be able to work well with others, take direction and have a great attitude. Practical experience with horses is a must, and experience with young horses and a familiarity with eventing would be helpful. We maintain a 6-day workweek with consistent barn hours. Most days will consist of riding for the first part of the day with routine horse management and the availability of a lesson in the afternoon. Traveling to shows and events should be expected. In addition to riding, you will have a behind-the-scenes look at the horse management and veterinary side of our business, and gain experience in helping to manage a successful training operation. Housing will be provided and board for one horse is a possibility. Must be at least 18 years old. If you are interested in our working student position, please send a resume and a riding video to Kendra McQuillan: [email protected]. For more information about McQuillan Equestrian, our facilities and our horses, please visit our website: www.kilfinnanstables.com.

Doug and Jessica Payne (SC/NC): International 4* Riders Doug and Jessica Payne are looking for a working student. It’s perfect for an individual who wants to be part of a top notch Eventing and Show Jumping Barn. This job offers the rare opportunity to groom and participate at the top levels of both show jumping and eventing, and to train daily under the eye of a judge. Applicants should be hard workers and dedicated to working in a team environment. Located in Aiken, SC until the new farm is finished being built in Hillsborough, NC. Please contact Jessica at [email protected] for more information.

Playland Farm Equestrian Center/Glenda Player (MD): Playland Equestrian Center (Union Bridge) is currently seeking long and short-term working students to be a part of the Playland team. All working students are required to be at least 18-years-old. Long-term working students stay for a minimum of six months, and receive free housing at the farm and board for one horse. Short-term working students generally come for the summer or spring break, and receive board at a reduced rate. All students are encouraged to bring their own horse if they have one. Depending on the students’ skill level, students may receive the opportunity to work several horses a day, whether it is in-hand or under saddle, including their own horse in addition to other farm and operational tasks. Lessons/coaching/showing opportunities also available. Limited housing available on the farm. Salary to be discussed with applicant. Apply Today! Visitwww.playlandequestriancenter.com for more information.

Pollard Eventing (GA): Pollard Eventing is seeking a working student or two. Come and be a part of our successful team. Learn the ins and outs of what it takes to ride at the top levels of the sport. The position is open to candidates who can commit for a minimum of 6 months, preferably one year. Housing and lessons are provided in exchange for hard work. There is room to bring your horse. If you are interested, please contact Allison at [email protected].

Denise Rath (FL): Denise Rath at Grey Fox Farm in Ocala, FL has an immediate opening for a full time working student. This is a great opportunity for somebody who wants to do some riding & competing, as well learning the day to day operations of a large barn. In exchange for your hard work we offer nice accommodations, board for your horse & daily lessons. For the right person we can offer the rare opportunity of a free lease on one of our horses with advanced level experience. Please send resumes to [email protected] or [email protected]

Dom and Jimmie Schramm (PA): We are looking for another working student to come on board at Schramm Equestrian! A few prerequisites: Must be finished with either High School or College, no online classes or just summer working students we want someone who can commit long term. We would prefer someone in their 20s but must be at least 18 years old. Must have their own form of transportation. Must be able to pay for their horse’s hard expenses (grain, hay, feed, straw). No dogs. This is not a riding position and it will be hard work. We have a fantastic team so far and are looking to add the last piece to the puzzle. We are looking for someone hardworking that loves to have fun but also can pay attention to detail. Please email your resumes to Stephanie Simpson at [email protected]. She will be your go to person.

Jane Sleeper (PA): Active event stable with a variety of young horses through the upper level rides is interviewing for a working student for this spring season and into the summer. All duties with an individual program set up for you & your horse, and you have the opportunity to ride/compete on our horses. Lessons, clinics, housing, and board available to the motivated, hard working training level eventor with a six month commitment. We also offer a summer working student program for students with a shorter time frame and desire to learn by first hand experience at a professional yard. Come for an interview & meet the team! Email [email protected] for more information.

USEA (Varied): The USEA Media Committee has just been launched as an effort to keep the USEA media outlets — website, FB, US Eventing magazine — current with its members and apprised of recent news and important discussion topics from coast to coast. This is a member-generated effort, and I am looking for young people interested in journalism, communications, social media, and eventing to help move this work forward. I’ve already had a strong response from the East Coast and Midwest, so now I’m calling on some of my West Coast peeps to step up! Internship credits available. Email Katy Groesbeck at [email protected] for more info.

Eventing Nation