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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.

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Rolex Entry Update: Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch Added, Historic 91 Entered

By Sally Spickard on Mar 27, 2015 11:00 am -

Laine Ashker sporting her helmet cam with Anthony Patch at Millbrook. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The last few entries are still trickling in this week, and fans of Laine Ashker will be thrilled to see her confirmed entry with Anthony Patch added this morning. We also saw the addition of Werner Geven’s second ride, Vilas County.

Laine and her 16-year-old OTTB gelding, Anthony Patch, have completed Rolex twice, in 2010 and 2011. After an untimely abscess kept them out of the competition last year, Laine made returning to Kentucky this year her goal — and we all know that this girl will do just about anything she puts her mind to! Keep an eye out for high fashion on the jog lane and selfies galore from the Kentucky Horse Park as this veteran pair makes their return.

Werner Geven and Vilas County at Poplar Place. Photo courtesy of Bailey Moran.

Werner Geven has also entered a second ride in addition to Vandiver: Carden Burdette’s Vilas County. Vilas County is an 11-year-old Thoroughbred gelding who will be contesting his first CCI4* at Rolex. Werner and Vilas County were most recently 12th in the CIC3* at Poplar Place and also finished in the top 20 in the CCI3* at Fair Hill in 2013. Werner’s making his first CCI4* start since 2006, when he completed Rolex and WEG aboard Esker Riada.

With these two most recent entries, that brings our total of entries up to 91. We’re 10 higher than 2014’s entry list, and there is a chance that a late entry or two may still pop up. Naturally, we’ll be waiting with bated breath for the first horse inspection to pass for our official starting number, but suffice it to say we are thrilled with this historic high for entries.

At the latest tally, we’ve got nine federations represented, 20 Rolex Rookies, and 13 participants in the 2014 World Equestrian Games in Normandy. We’ll be breaking down the numbers of the field in a later post, but it’s definitely promised to be a great year in Kentucky!

[Rolex Entry List]

Thursday Video: Watch Jennie Brannigan’s Jockey Debut Aboard Where’s the Beef

By Sally Spickard on Mar 26, 2015 3:00 pm -

Jennie Brannigan and Where's The Beef lead the race. Photo by Tod Marks Photography.

Jennie Brannigan made a splash in the racing world this past weekend, piloting Tim and Nina Gardner’s Where’s The Beef to a fourth place finish in an allowance turf race at the Aiken Spring Steeplechase. The 7-year-old gelding has been a special undertaking of Jennie’s, and he’s on his way back to the top levels of the sport as he is aiming for the $75,000 Carolina Cup this weekend.

HCP Sports provided a video of the race, which Jennie and “Beef” led for the majority of the time. It’s a thrilling race to watch, and we have to say Jennie looks right at home galloping along the turf. Of course, she’s been galloping racehorses for quite some time now, so this seems like the next natural step for her!

Congratulations once again to Jennie on her jockey debut. Next up, we’ll be seeing her galloping around another turf — the Rolex turf that is!

To view the video, please click here or on the image below.

Rolex Entry Update: Boyd Martin Enters Three, Entries at 89

By Sally Spickard on Mar 26, 2015 11:00 am -

Boyd Martin and Master Frisky. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Entries for Rolex closed on Tuesday, so we’re seeing the last few entries trickling in right now. This morning, Boyd Martin finally made his appearance on the list with three horses who will be contesting their first four-stars: Master Frisky, Pancho Villa and Crackerjack. We also saw the addition of Will Coleman and Obos O’Reilly, who will also be making his first CCI4* start, as well as Rolex Rookies Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair.

Boyd himself missed Rolex last year after breaking his leg at Carolina International — suffice it to say, we’re happy he made it through the event this past weekend in one piece! His two horses will be in experienced hands as they go around Kentucky for the first time.

Master Frisky, an 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Steve Blauner, is fresh off of a second place finish in the CIC3* at Carolina International. Boyd and “Mikey” finished on their dressage score after logging a double clear cross country run, and they are entered in the CIC3* at The Fork next weekend for their final tune-up.

In 2014, Master Frisky finished second in his CCI3* debut at the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International, and he’s gone clear across country in every FEI start he’s made to date.

Boyd Martin and Pancho Villa. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Pancho Villa is a 12-year-old Selle Francais gelding owned by the Pancho Villa Syndicate that Boyd began riding in 2013. Together, they completed the horse’s first CCI3* at Fair Hill last year in 17th place, and they’re also coming off a solid start at Carolina International. “Pancho” lowered two rails over a tricky show jumping course in the CIC3* at Carolina but added nothing on cross country. He’s also entered at The Fork and will compete in the Advanced division.

Boyd Martin and Crackerjack at Plantation Field CIC3*. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Crackerjack, owned by Lucy Boynton Lie, is a 12-year-old Thoroughbred gelding who picked up a solid fifth place finish in the CIC3* at Carolina International this past weekend. He also finished in the top 15 in the CCI3* at Fair Hill last fall and has had a great start to his season leading up to Rolex.

Crackerjack is entered in the CIC3* at The Fork for his final practice run before Kentucky.

Will Coleman and OBOS O’Reilly. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Will Coleman is set to make a return to the CCI4* level with Obos O’Reilly. Will represented the United States at the 2012 Olympic Games aboard Twizzel and has also been to Kentucky three times before. This year he’s bringing Obos O’Reilly, a 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding who won the CCI3* at Bromont in 2013.

Most recently, Will and Obos O’Reilly finished 12th in the CIC2* at Carolina International and he’s entered in the Advanced at The Fork next weekend.

Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Last but most certainly not least, Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair are entered into their first CCI4*. Doesn’t Play Fair, a 10-year-old Holsteiner gelding owned by Dawn Doffelmier, was third in the CCI3* at Galway Downs last fall and also won the CIC3* at Plantation Field in 2014. This pair also finished in the top 20 of the CIC3* at Carolina International and are entered in the Advanced at The Fork next weekend.

That brings our entries total up to 89 for this year, which exceeds last year’s record high of 82 entries, and it’s really shaped up to be a very exciting start list. We’ll be keeping an eye on the entries for any late changes, but as of right now we have a very clear picture of who we’ll see in Kentucky this year. Click below for the full entry list.

[Rolex Entry List]

Rolex Rookies: Cody Sturgess and Imperial Melody

By Sally Spickard on Mar 26, 2015 9:00 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!

Cody Sturgress and Imperial Melody at Poplar Place. Photo courtesy of Bailey Moran.

Cody Sturgess has always seen something special in his OTTB mare, Imperial Melody. Purchased off the track as a two-year-old who had just raced one time, Imperial Melody (My Imperial Slew – Golden Melody, by Geiger Counter), “Melly” was originally tagged as a resale project for Cody and his mother, Susan, but Cody quickly laid claim to her.

“I said to my mom, ‘I think there’s something special about this one,‘” Cody recalled. “I asked if it would be ok if we kept her. She just had such a great attitude and willingness to work. Even as a baby, she was very keen to jump — anything and everything. You can’t train them to do that; they either want to or they don’t. She was amazing from the start, and picked up on things so well that you had to be careful not to do too much too fast with her.”

Cody and Melly made their recognized debut in Canada at Training level in 2008, where she placed second. Cody took his time with his talented mare, spending nearly three years at Training and Prelim before making her FEI debut at the CCI* in 2010. From there, the pair never looked back and began competing in the U.S. for Canada in 2013.

“Her first Advanced was at Richland Park, and I walked the course feeling like I was going to throw up,” Cody said. “After I walked it about five times, it started to look rideable. We went out on cross country and went double clear — it just wasn’t difficult for her. I thought to myself, ‘Ok, this is a serious horse.’ You always think they’re serious, but until they actually go out and do it you always wonder.“

Indeed, the 15.3 mare has never had a cross country jumping penalty on her record in FEI competition. “She’s an amazing cross country horse and a great galloper,” Cody said. “We’ve made a lot of changes with her prep and training, and it’s really beginning to pay off with her scoring well on the flat and jumping well in the show jumping.”

“She’s 15.3 on a good day with new shoes on,” he joked. “She absolutely tries her heart out every day. There’s always stories about the smaller OTTBs who do well, and she’s one of them. She knows her job and loves it. The only time she’s ever had time on cross country is if we were planning to go slow.”

Cody and Melly at Poplar Place. Photo courtesy of Bailey Moran.

Cody is spending the months leading up to Rolex training with Canadian coach Clayton Fredericks in Florida. “I wanted to give us the best possible chance of success, and Clayton has been very helpful in preparing us,” he said.

Rolex became a solid goal for Cody last year after the pair had success competing at the three-star level. As far as the big picture, Cody’s got his eyes set on representing Canada in the Olympics. He and Melly were short-listed for the Canadian Eventing Team this year, their first nomination to the short list.

“I knew she would be a Rolex horse, and my focus has always been to compete for Canada and represent at the Olympics. With the Pan Am Games this year, it didn’t make sense to hold her back and hope to get selected when Rolex was coming up and we knew she was capable of going and being successful.”

Having finished 11th at Bromont last year, Cody feels confident coming into another technical course designed by Derek di Grazia. “I think that type of course will suit her well, and it’s the type that I prefer,” he elaborated. “I like the open galloping courses. Bromont felt very easy for her. She’s so small and adjustable, she could get around any course, I feel. I would feel confident going around any course in the world on this horse.”

In the final weeks leading up to Rolex, Cody is focusing on keeping his mare happy, sound and healthy. After going double clear on cross country in the CIC3* at Poplar Place this past weekend, Cody plans to keep working on those dressage and show jumping skills before making the trek to Kentucky.

“She’s confirmed on cross country, she doesn’t need another run before Rolex,” he said. “Her cross country record speaks for itself. We’re going to focus on keeping her feeling good though her body, which is more important to me than drilling her in the ring.”

Cody’s feeling game and confident going into his first CCI4* with his horse of a lifetime. “I owe my whole career to this horse and to the support of my mother who helped make all of this possible. I’m confident that we can go out and be competitive, and my goal is to come home with a top-20 finish.”

Best of luck to Cody and Imperial Melody as they tackle their first Rolex together. To learn more about Cody and how you can support his journey, click here. You can also follow along with his updates on his Facebook page here.

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Carolina CIC3* Water Complex

By Sally Spickard on Mar 25, 2015 3:00 pm -

We got lucky with the coverage from Carolina International this past weekend, as RNS Video was also on site to bring us video of the action. Check out the above footage from the CIC3* Cloud 11 Watership Down complex. Who gets your vote for best ride?

Thanks to the fantastic services of the USEF Network this weekend at Carolina International, we are also now are able to view the competition on demand this week. Who needs Netflix when you’ve got hours of eventing coverage to binge watch?

The cross country is divided up into sections on USEF Network, and you can also go back and view show jumping and dressage rides from individual riders. There’s quite a lot of videos to sift through, so there’s plenty to help keep us occupied until Rolex.

Click here to visit the USEF Network and view all of the Carolina International videos on demand.

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Product Review: Padded Ponies Half Pad

By Sally Spickard on Mar 25, 2015 12:13 pm -

Jesse enjoys his model status. Photo by Sally Spickard.

It’s always a tough choice, choosing the right pad that works for both you and your horse. Fortunately, there are a multitude of options on the market today for just about every shape, size, and preference.

The idea of a custom pad has always been a big seller in today’s market. Especially for eventers, who love to color coordinate. When Padded Ponies approached me with the opportunity to test one of their memory foam half pads, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity.

I’m lucky enough to have a relatively “normal” shaped horse. He doesn’t have the “shark fin” withers that many Thoroughbreds have, and he goes in a standard medium tree saddle. When testing out a demo saddle a couple of weeks ago, I was pleased that no major altercations would need to be made once I ordered his saddle.

I may be a minority in this opinion — perhaps it’s because I’ve dealt with an ill-fitting saddle for the past few years — but I still favor the idea of using a half pad, as long as it does not interfere with my saddle fit. Like I said, my old saddle (the one pictured) needed a lot of help in that department. So I’m always game to test out a new half pad to see if it provides some more comfort for both my horse and me.

The obvious thing about Padded Ponies is the custom options. A click through their website yields so many options that you’ll be able to find any color and pattern combination possible. They also offer solid colors, so if patterns aren’t your thing not to worry!

Fun and functional! Photo by Sally Spickard.

I ordered mine in my eventing colors of royal purple and gray (ok, my colors also include black and white but who’s counting?). Out of the box, I was impressed with the quality with which the pads are made. There’s even an embroidered reminder on washing instructions (machine wash, line dry) on the spine so you don’t have any pesky tags to worry about. That’s what I call attention to detail.

The memory foam was cold out of the box from shipping, but I was pleased to see that once it warmed up it was pliable and ready to use.

The thing about memory foam is that it can appear pretty thick on first glance. I wasn’t sure how it would work with my saddle since it did seem a bit thick out of the box, but I was pleased to see that once it was on, the foam immediately conformed to my saddle, alleviating pressure points and achieving a nice fit without interfering.

During my ride, I felt comfortable and secure in the saddle and I felt my horse moving well through his back, making me feel that he enjoyed the extra comfort between him and the saddle.

Once I was finished riding, the pad almost immediately returned to its full shape. This was encouraging, as it made me feel that it could be used on multiple horses and conform accordingly to them. I’m happy to report that after a handful of rides, the pad is still returning to its original shape and density after removal.

The pad is large enough to fit a larger saddle (my old saddle, pictured, is a 16.5″) with plenty of room, which is great considering I will have a larger saddle coming in the next few months.

Overall, I’ve had a positive experience with Padded Ponies. Their customer service is wonderful, and they’re able to offer a custom product at an affordable price. I think I can speak for both my horse and myself when I say I’m glad we landed on this option, which is both fun and functional.

You can view more information on Padded Ponies (and order your own!) here. You can find saddle pads, stirrup and saddle covers, and different types of half pads, so shop to your heart’s content!

Go Padded Ponies!

Tuesday Videos from SpectraVET: Elisa Wallace’s Poplar Place Weekend

By Sally Spickard on Mar 24, 2015 6:00 pm -

Elisa Wallace brought out her upper level campaigners as well as two of her mustangs to Poplar Place over the weekend. Competing her newest mustang, Hwin, at the Novice level, she picked up a fifth place finish after adding two rails to their dressage score. Hwin is a lovely looking mare who has really taken to her new career as an eventer, and we can’t wait to see where these two head next.

Rune, one of Elisa’s mustangs who she’s had for some time now, was also out competing at the Novice level. Despite a stop at a ditch, which evidently was full of mustang eating grelims, Rune added nothing else to his dressage score for a 12th place finish in the Novice B.

Elisa also used this weekend as a prep run for Jill Hopcroft’s Simply Priceless, who is heading to Rolex next month. Elisa and “Johnny” contested the dressage and stadium phases and will also ride a CT at Ocala as their final prep for Kentucky.

Rosemarie Spillane’s Corteo also competed at Poplar, finishing fifth with just time on cross country in the CIC2*. Corteo seems nonplussed by the rainy weather than descended upon the event over the weekend, and Wallace Eventing wrote that his performance was very strong, even with the less than ideal conditions.

Congratulations to Elisa on a successful outing. It’s great to see the mustangs out enjoying themselves as always, and we can’t wait to see more from Elisa in Kentucky next month.

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Get Creative with Your Rolex Tickets and Win a T-Series Helmet from Tipperary

By Sally Spickard on Mar 24, 2015 3:00 pm -

Photo by Lenore Threlkeld.

Rolex is just around the corner, and the tickets we’ve all ordered are making their appearances in our mailboxes as we speak. Chinch has already started packing, and we can’t say we blame him!

In honor of our excitement for the upcoming Super Bowl of eventing, we’ve partnered with our sponsor, Tipperary, to give away a brand new T-series helmet! We want you to be riding in style this spring, and what better way to do it than to celebrate another upcoming Rolex? Here’s what you need to do:

What do I need to do to enter?

Easy! We want to see how creative you can get with your Rolex tickets. Want to arrange them in Buck Davidson’s initials? Sure! Feel like recreating the Head of the Lake? Go for it! The more creative, the better!

Once you’ve snapped your photo, send it to [email protected] with the subject line “Tipperary Rolex Contest” no later than Saturday, March 28.

How will I know if I’m a finalist?

We’ll be posting the best photos in a voting post right here on EN on Sunday, March 29 to determine the winner.

How do I claim my awesome T-series helmet?

A reader vote will determine the winner, who we will contact with information on claiming their T-series helmet from Tipperary.

So what are you waiting for, EN? Let’s see those Rolex tickets!

USEF Accepting Bids to Host 2016 FEI Nations Cup Leg in U.S.

By Sally Spickard on Mar 24, 2015 1:00 pm -

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice at Great Meadow. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The USEF announced today that it is accepting bids to host a leg of the 2016 FEI Nations Cup Eventing Series here on U.S. soil, which would be a huge step forward for eventing in North America. The FEI Nations Cup has never hosted a leg in the United States, but it’s been a goal of several event organizers for some time now.

In just one example, Rob Banner, president of the Great Meadow Foundation, spoke to EN last year about his goal of hosting a leg of the Nations Cup at the facility in Virginia, which hosted the WEG Prep Trials last summer and will host its inaugural CIC3* in conjunction with the Pan Am Prep Trials this June.

“We’ve proved that we can certainly draw a big crowd, and a lot of people realized at the WEG Prep Trials that we can handle the larger task as well,” Rob said. “We’ll get together the very best committee we possibly can to not only navigate the organization of a Nations Cup but also work with the FEI to secure a date.”

Both David O’Connor and Leslie Law have been supportive of the U.S. hosting a leg of Nations Cup, and Rob has already done much of the leg work towards turning this goal into a reality. He’s working with Washington Dulles International Airport to secure a new vetport, which would allow European competitors to have easy access to the site should it host an event like this.

“It would be a thrill if we could get the vetport secured to help horsemen who bring horses from Europe,” Rob said. “Having that here would be a great asset to Great Meadow and other area venues. We’re urging for it to happen, and, so far, Dulles seems to be interested in having this kind of activity at the airport.”

There are a multitude of other venues in the U.S. that could potentially submit a bid for the Nations Cup. Bids are due to the USEF by April 3 and are open to organizing committees that have organized a USEF-licensed FEI Two-Star Level or above event.

We’re thrilled to see this proposal in the works, and we’ll be sure to keep you up to speed on the bids once they are announced. For more information on the bid process, click here.

[USEF Accepting Bids for Nations Cup]

Andrew McConnon Learns from a Master with Ziggy

By Sally Spickard on Mar 24, 2015 11:00 am -

Andrew McConnon and Ziggy. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Andrew McConnon made a good friend when he met Rachel Jurgens, who produced the 19-year-old OTTB gelding, Ziggy, to the CCI4* level as an amateur. After Rachel and Ziggy finished in the top 30 in their first Rolex together in 2014, Rachel decided to focus on her up and coming horses and began thinking of new options for her veteran partner.

“Ziggy is the type of horse who wouldn’t do well ‘retiring,’” Rachel said. “He doesn’t like not having a job. I thought I’d ask Andrew if he’d like to ride him — he’d been so impressive with how helpful and hardworking he was.”

Rachel was nervous about handing over the reins to Andrew, as she’d been the only one to ever sit on the gelding’s back in the past. “I did have a young rider try him at one point, and I just kind of thought he would be bored doing lower levels. He wanted to continue going Advanced.”

Andrew had previously competed through the two-star level and was searching for an opportunity to gain some mileage at the Advanced level. “What I needed most was to get experience around larger tracks,” he said. “Ziggy is so good on cross country — he’s given me a lot of confidence. They say good horses make good riders, and I absolutely believe that’s true.”

Andrew and Ziggy got off to a great start together, winning their first outing together in the Intermediate/Preliminary at Full Gallop in August of last year, Ziggy’s first event back after completing Rolex.

From there, Andrew set his sights on the CCI2* at Fair Hill in the fall, which they completed in 16th place — no small feat in an event in which many competitors fell victim to the tough cross country. This all came after a nail-biting start in which Andrew was wait listed for the entry list.

“I had waited until the CIC* at Plantation to enter, so I was put on the wait list,” he recalled. “It was nerve wracking being on the wait list. We were able to get in right at the last minute; we jogged on Friday morning right before our test. I think I walked the cross country for the first time on Friday, but he’s so phenomenal on cross country that everything just rode great.”

“He’s so efficient on cross country — you don’t need to take hardly any time to set him up for the questions. He’s very efficient, which makes the time quite attainable,” Andrew continued. “I had a look at my watch after the last water at Fair Hill and realized he was coming in quite early, so I was able to just lope him home. It felt great on a day when the time and the penalties were so influential.”

Andrew McConnon and Ziggy at Carolina International. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Andrew reconvened with Rachel after Fair Hill to map out some other goals to attain. Andrew still aimed to move up to Advanced with Ziggy, and with Rachel’s blessing he moved up to the big A at Pine Top last month, where they finished a very respectable sixth.

“He was the only horse to come in ahead of time at Pine Top,” Andrew said. “I didn’t even pay attention to the time — that wasn’t our goal for the event. But I don’t ever have to go fast with him, he’s just so efficient. We just sweep through the turns and spend very little time rebalancing.”

Andrew contested his first CIC3* at Carolina International this past weekend, where they romped around cross country double clear and added just one stadium rail to their dressage score.

“Ziggy did a great job holding in his excitement in the dressage ring where he’s accustomed to show jumping,” Andrew said. “He jumped extremely well over a technical and influential show jumping course, followed by a double clear cross country round.”

Andrew and Ziggy received lots of praise from commentators Karen O’Connor and Kim Severson on the USEF Network live feed — Ziggy received the praise from Karen, who said that he’d be a horse that could pull her out of retirement to ride!

Rachel is thrilled with the partnership Andrew has quickly formed with her gelding. “He’s a very good rider,” she said. “He’s the easiest horse anyone will ever ride on cross country. I’m an amateur, and I miss — thank God he seems to have 10 legs! Sometimes I think Ziggy likes Andrew better than he did me!”

Rachel took care to not put an excessive amount of runs on Ziggy as he got older, which she credits to his soundness over the years. “Knock wood, he takes really good care of himself,” she said. “He’s got low miles so we’re blessed that his physical being is as great as his brain.”

What’s next for Andrew and Ziggy? “I’d love it if they could make it to Kentucky, but with the qualifications I’m not sure it will happen,” Rachel said. “I know they can at least do a three-star together, but after that it’s up to Ziggy what he wants to do next.”

Andrew is grateful to Rachel for providing such a wonderful opportunity to learn from a master of his craft in Ziggy. “She’s one of the kindest, most selfless people I’ve ever met,” he said. “I know it’s hard watching someone else compete your horse, but she’s been unbelievably supportive and and given me an opportunity that most people dream about.”

Andrew McConnon working with a CANTER horse. Photo courtesy of Allie Conrad.

Giving back to the OTTB cause

Andrew also keeps busy at his home base in North Carolina helping the local CANTER chapter, CANTER Mid-Atlantic, in the retraining of their OTTBs.

“Allie Conrad is here in Southern Pines and she contacted me for some help with a homebred horse of her,” he said. “She later asked if I’d be willing to help train and re-sell the OTTBs, which I was happy to do.”

Andrew favors the Thoroughbred, so working with the horses coming off the track has brought him supreme pleasure. “I think they have such heart and athletic ability. I like to do whatever I can to help with the program. I’ve got several horses in the barn re-training, and it’s been a really rewarding job.“

Allie and Andrew will typically select horses who show potential together, and those horses will go on to begin their new careers with Andrew before being sold. “CANTER is more focused on finding them good homes in different disciplines, whichever they want to do,” he explained. “Allie has a spectacular ability for picking horses and matching them with people. It’s been really great to be able to give back and see these horses go on to be successful in their careers.“

Rolex Entry Update: The Germans Are Coming

By Sally Spickard on Mar 24, 2015 9:00 am -

Michael Jung and fischerRocana FST. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Hold onto your hats, EN — the Germans are coming to Rolex! We reported last month that both Andreas Dibowski and Michael Jung were planning to head for Rolex, and we finally have confirmation. Michael Jung will be bringing the big guns, 2014 WEG individual silver medalist fischerRocana FST and 2010 WEG and 2012 London gold individual medalist La Biosthetique Sam.

Both Rocana and Sam are coming off of very good performances in the first leg of the FEI Nations Cup at Fontainebleau. Sam made a triumphant return to FEI competition after withdrawing from the German WEG squad last year with a win in the CICO3*, while stablemate Rocana picked up a seventh place finish.

Andreas Dibowski has entered FRH Butts Avedon at Rolex, who finished second at Pau last year and has completed Luhmühlen twice. The 12-year-old Hanoverian gelding was also second in the CCI2* championship for 7-year-olds at Le Lion d’Angers with Andreas in the irons. Andreas has competed Butts Avedon in FEI competitions since 2009, producing him from the CIC* level, so this is a very experienced partnership.

This will be the first time in five years we’ll see a German rider at Rolex; Bettina Hoy and Ringwood Cockatoo finished second in 2009 as the last German combination to compete at the event.

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda. Photo by Alec Thayer.

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda. Photo by Kasey Mueller.

Jennie Brannigan and Tim and Nina Gardner’s Cambalda, a 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse, are also now entered. Jennie and “Ping” were sadly eliminated last year after missing a flag on cross country, though they completed the entire course in grand fashion. We’ll be sending all the EN karma to this pair as they look to complete their first CCI4*, and they’re coming hot off a third place finish in the CIC3* at Red Hills.

Hallie Coon is one of the new Rolex Rookies on the list, appearing with her 15-year-old KWPN gelding, Namaste. These two completed the CCI3* at the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International last fall and this year placed eighth in the Advanced at Rocking Horse in February. They completed the dressage and show jumping of the CIC3* at Carolina International before withdrawing, and they’re also entered in the CIC3* at The Fork as their final prep.

Courtney Cooper and Who’s A Star. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Courtney Cooper and Who’s A Star will be heading to Kentucky for the first CCI4*. Who’s A Star is a 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse/NZ Thoroughbred owned by Courtney Cooper and Neal Camens who picked up a seventh place finish in the CCI3* at Fair Hill last year. Most recently, this pair finished fourth in the Advanced at Carolina International, and they’ll also contest the Advanced at The Fork, the hot spot for Rolex hopefuls each year.

Will Faudree and Andromaque. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The ever popular Andromaque is on the list to make her return to Kentucky this year with Will Faudree in the irons. Owned by Jennifer Mosing, the 14-year-old Irish Thoroughbred mare had several months off from competition between 2013 and 2014, beginning a comeback tour this year that has most recently included a third place performance in the CIC3* at Carolina International this past weekend. The mare will be making her third CCI4* start; she placed 16th in her first Rolex attempt in 2011.

In yet another addition to a very exciting list, Gina Miles is making her return to Rolex. Gina last competed at the CCI4* level with McKinlaigh, who was her silver medal partner in the 2008 Olympics in Hong Kong. Now, she’s bringing the S.V.R. Ron Syndicate LLC’s S.V.R. Ron; she acquired the ride after the 15-year-old gelding represented Uruguay in the 2011 Pan American Games. They finished 13th in the CCI3* at Galway last year and are entered in the CIC3* at Galway this coming weekend.

Ireland is also now represented on the entry list with Austin O’Connor and Balham Houdini. Austin last came to Kentucky in 2013 with Ringwood Mississippi, with whom he finished 13th. Now he’s brining Balham Houdini, an 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse, for his first CCI4* attempt. This pair also contested the CICO3* at Fontainebleau this past weekend, finishing in 20th place.

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

Crowd favorites Meghan O’Donoghue and her speedy little OTTB, Pirate, will be making their third start in Kentucky and fourth CCI4* start together. Meghan and Pirate, who is 13 this year, have finished in the top 15 and top 20 in their first two years competing in Kentucky and are rapidly becoming a staple to see galloping across country the last weekend in April. These two finished 11th in the Advanced at Carolina International last weekend and are entered in the CIC3* at The Fork for their final prep.

Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Jessie Phoenix is bringing two horses to Kentucky this year: A Little Romance and Pavarotti. Owned by Don Leschied, A Little Romance is a 10-year-old mare who will be stepping up to the CCI4* level in Kentucky. This lovely mare won the CCI3* at Bromont last year and will contest the CIC3* at The Fork before heading to Kentucky.

Pavarotti, owned by Don Good, is the more experienced of Jessie’s rides, having represented Canada on the 2014 WEG squad. Pavarotti, a 13-year-old Westphalian gelding, also won individual gold at the 2011 Pan American Games with Jessie, and aside from doing just the dressage in 2014, this will be his first proper Rolex start.

Katie Ruppel and Houdini. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Katie Ruppel and her 11-year-old OTTB gelding, Houdini, will be making their second start in Kentucky together after completing last year. Katie is entered in the Advanced at The Fork with Houdini, who she has said is feeling great for Kentucky, as their final prep run.

Caitlin Silliman and Catch A Star. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Making their third trip to Rolex this year are Caitlin Silliman and Catch a Star, a 15-year-old Oldenburg mare. Caitlin and “Hoku” have been together since 2011 and finished 24th in their first CCI4* in 2013. So far this year they’ve placed second in the Advanced at Carolina and will carry on to the CIC3* at The Fork next.

Cody Sturgess and Imperial Melody, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred mare, are also Rolex Rookies this year. Representing Canada, this pair finished 11th in their first CCI3* at Bromont last year and most recently finished seventh in the Advanced at Red Hills. We’ll be profiling each Rookie rider individually just like we did last year, so stay tuned for more on Cody!

Sharon White and Wundermaske. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Our final new addition today is Sharon White and Wundermaske, who is making his third CCI4* start. Sharon and “Patch,” owned by Sharon White and Richard Weber, finished 19th at Pau last year while representing the U.S. and also finished 23rd in his first Rolex last April. The 12-year-old Hanoverian/Thoroughbred gelding most recently placed second in the Advanced at Carolina International and will travel to The Fork on his way to Kentucky for the CIC3*.

In some disappointing news, we’ve just learned from Phillip Dutton that Mr. Medicott will not be making his return to Kentucky this year. After finishing eighth in the CIC2* at Carolina International, Phillip and his team have decided to err on the side of caution and give “Cave” some more time to be ready to return to the top levels. You can read Phillip’s statement on his Facebook page here.

Entries close on Thursday, so keep an eye out for the final entries as they make their way in. What a fantastic list this is turning out to be. See you in Kentucky!

[Rolex Entry List]

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: Laine Ashker’s Carolina International CIC3* Helmet Cam

By Sally Spickard on Mar 23, 2015 4:30 pm -

Post by Lainey Ashker.

We’re so glad that the USEF lifted the temporary ban on helmet cams — how else would we get to experience courses like these from behind the ears of a horse who loves his job as much as Anthony Patch does?

Laine has been sporting her GoPro since she received it as a Christmas gift last year, making us anxiously await her footage after each cross country run. She didn’t disappoint, as she gives us a rider’s eye view of Hugh Lochore’s CIC3* course at Carolina International this past weekend. Laine and “Al” are headed to Rolex next, and they added another double clear cross country run to their record in their final prep for Kentucky. #GoAlGo!

Lynn Symansky to Syndicate Donner

By Sally Spickard on Mar 23, 2015 12:50 pm -

Lynn Symansky and Donner at WEG. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Lynn Symansky announced today that she is offering syndicate shares for Donner, her 12-year-old OTTB gelding with whom she represented the United States at both the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara and the 2014 World Equestrian Games in Normandy.

“I am excited to announce the formation of the Donner Syndicate, which will allow this talented horse to continue in international competition and to obtain another horse to follow in his hoof prints,” Lynn said.

“Owners will not only share in the expansion of Donner’s international competitive career, but will also have the opportunity to be part of the development of an up and coming young superstar of the sport.”

Twenty shares will be made available in the Donner Syndicate, and all share holders will also be members of a syndicate of a yet-to-be-purchased young horse with international potential.

“I truly believe that Donner is the ‘people’s horse,’” Lynn said. “I have tried to structure the syndicate so that it is affordable to a wide range of eventing enthusiasts.”

Lynn and Donner’s career highlights include placing sixth individually and winning team gold at the 2011 Pan Ams, finishing fifth in his first CCI4* at Rolex in 2013 and finishing 13th at Pau later that year; and placing in the top 50 individually as members of the U.S. WEG team squad last year.

Lynn and Donner are entered to compete at Rolex next month after a successful run in the Advanced at Carolina International this past weekend. For more information on the Donner Syndicate, please visit Lynn Symansky’s website here. Go Donner!

Rolex Entry Update: Donner Makes His Return to Kentucky, 63 Now Entered

By Sally Spickard on Mar 23, 2015 11:00 am -

Lynn Symansky and Donner at Rolex. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Everyone’s favorite flying deer is descending upon Kentucky this year, the latest updates to the Rolex entry list show. Fan favorites Lynn Symansky and her 12-year-old OTTB gelding, Donner, are scheduled to make their return to Kentucky in their return to FEI competition after representing the United States at WEG last year.

Lynn and Donner finished fourth in their first appearance at Rolex together in 2013, effectively stealing the hearts of fans all over the country. Donner was also awarded the annual Golden Chinchilla for winning the EN Horse of the Year award in 2013.

Lillian Heard and Share Option. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Lillian Heard is returning to Kentucky for the second time with Share Option, a 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding. Lillian and Share Option completed Rolex on their first try last year and will be looking for another solid run this year. Lillian has Share Option entered in the Advanced at The Fork as their lead-up event.

Maddy Mazzola and Mojito. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Our first rookie to make an appearance on the list this week is Maddy Mazzola, who will be riding Mojito in her CCI4* debut. The 14-year-old Argentinian warmblood cross has made the trip to the Bluegrass State twice, completing with Kate Brown in 2012.

Maddy took over the ride on the gray gelding in 2013 and moved up to Advanced last year. Highlights of their year at Advanced include an eighth place finish in a competitive CCI3* at Jersey Fresh and a seventh in the CIC3* at Rebecca Farm. Most recently, Maddy and Mojito placed seventh in the Advanced at Copper Meadows. They’re entered in the CIC3* at Galway Downs this weekend before heading East.

Jimmie Schramm and Bellamy. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Our final new entry of the day is another Rolex Rookie, Jimmie Schramm and Bellamy. “Bells” is a 15-year-old Oldenburg/Thoroughbred gelding who has been Jimmie’s upper level campaigner for several years now. They’ve had a very strong spring season, most recently picking up a 14th place finish on their dressage score in the CIC3* at Carolina International. These two will head to the Advanced at The Fork for their final prep run before making their debut in Kentucky.

Stay tuned for more updates from the Rolex entry list!

[Rolex Entry List]

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Product Review: A Horse Box

By Sally Spickard on Mar 23, 2015 9:00 am -

Photo by Sally Spickard.

I’m not going to lie to you, I’m kind of addicted to subscription boxes. It all started with BirchBox, which is hilarious because I really don’t even use makeup these days but I still feel the need to buy it like it’s going out of style. Now, there are so many boxes to choose from it almost makes my head spin. But when A Horse Box came out last year, I knew I had to have it.

First off, there’s something really nice about samples. You get to try a product and decide whether you like it before you have your hands on a full size container of it. It takes a lot of pressure and guesswork out of trying new things, which is one thing I can really appreciate about A Horse Box.

A Horse Box has partnered with a lot of brands, some of which are already well established in the equine industry and others are newer companies, in order to bring variety and quality to their subscription boxes. I’ve been really impressed with the quality of the items I’ve received, from full sized doses of Omega Alpha supplements (Gastra-FX Ultra this month) to wound treatment products and everything in between, you’re bound to find something you like in your box each month.

These look good enough that I want to try them! Photo by Sally Spickard.

Of course, my horse is a huge fan of the gourmet treat samples that are almost always present in his box. Each month, he’s been able to sample a new type of treat, and I think he’s begun to expect this sample party each month!

Photo by Sally Spickard.

Each month, there is a card included with A Horse Box that gives you a rundown of what you can find in the box. This month’s box marked A Horse Box’s two-year anniversary, so they made sure that we got some really great products, along with a neat little gift bag, in this month’s box.

I’ve been continually impressed with both the products included each month as well as the promptness of the service. I signed up for a six-month recurring subscription, and each month my PayPal is deducted for my payment, and I receive an email containing my tracking number right around the middle of the month. If I’m not mistaken, your shipment date just coincides with whenever you sign up. For instance, I signed up in the middle of the month, so my box for that month shipped a few days later.

Don’t forget, we’re giving away A Horse Box to try for yourself in this week’s Fab Freebie! Click here to learn more and enter to win. Also, don’t forget to check out A Horse Box’s website to sign up for your subcription!

Fab Freebie: Win a Free Month of A Horse Box

By Sally Spickard on Mar 23, 2015 9:00 am -

Photo by Sally Spickard.

With the rapid rise in popularity of subscription boxes, it’s no wonder that the equine market has jumped on the bandwagon. And why not? Horse people are always looking for the next best product to help protect, feed, groom, or otherwise care for their horse. But the issue we run into is not wanting to shell out the bucks for a full sized product which we haven’t tried yet.

Enter A Horse Box. This wonderful subscription box provides a few different options for their boxes: A Horse Box, A Tack Box, A Mini Horse Box (coming soon) and A Barn Box (coming soon). Here’s how they all break down:

A Horse Box

Your standard sample box, which will give you 4-6 products to try each month. Check out our review of this month’s Horse Box to get an idea of what is included! This plan is discounted with a six-month commitment, but you’re also able to try it for just one month or subscribe for three months.

A Tack Box

This is a one-time box, not available for subscription, that contains everyday essentials for both horse and rider. A great way to get introduced to A Horse Box and it’s partner companies!

A Mini Horse Box

This is an option that is returning in 2015. This smaller box option will provide 2-3 products for you to try each month.

A Barn Box

This is also a one-time box slated to make its appearance this year. Said to be ideal for multiple horse owners, look for some great essentials to have around the barn to be sent out in these boxes.

The nice thing about A Horse Box is that it’s not discipline specific, meaning if you have multiple horses or run a barn then you’ll have a sample (and sometimes a full-sized product!) for any type of horse of issue. You’ll find brands such as Omega Alpha and Cavalor in your Horse Box, as well as gourmet treat samples and many other products for you to test.

We want you to be able to try A Horse Box for yourself, so we’ve teamed up with the company, who is generously offering a one-month Horse Box to our Fab Freebie this week! Simply use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter, and we’ll announce the winner in this Friday’s News & Notes. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By Sally Spickard on Mar 22, 2015 5:38 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!

It wouldn’t be Sunday Funday without a bit of OTTB window shopping, wouldn’t you agree? Whether you’re on the hunt for your next upper level prospect or in search of a partner to hit the trails with, and everything in between, OTTBs are among the most versatile of options when it comes to horse shopping. Here’s a few options for you this week!

Photo via Second Stride Inc.

Our first horse this week is Grand Giant, a 5-year-old gelding available for adoption through Second Stride, Inc. in Kentucky. Standing 15.3hh, Grand Giant (Giant’s Causeway – French Grand, by French Deputy) is said to be well-behaved, even out for a hack in very cold winter temperatures. Grand Giant made 15 career starts and earned nearly $75,000 on the track. This handsome redhead is ready for you to pick him up to start his new career!

Grand Giant on Second Stride, Inc.

Photo via the Makers Mark Secretariat Center.

There’s something about a red bay that just makes me all happy inside. This handsome guy, Colonel Harlan, is available through the Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center adjacent to the Kentucky Horse Park. Colonel Harlan (Visionaire – Jacaranda Jane (SAF), by Joshua Dancer) was foaled in 2011 and raced just six times and has been retired sound since 2013.

The MMSC describes “Harlan” as tentative and needing a worthy leader to help him gain confidence and grow into himself. We know his leader is just waiting to bring him home! Check out Colonel Harlan’s listing for more photos and video.

Photo via CANTER Illinois.

This eye-catching guy, Summer In Montana, is a fresh new listing from the Illinois CANTER chapter. Fans of Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus will perk their ears at this one, who’s got royalty in his bloodlines. Summer In Montana (Fusaichi Pegasus – Melon Moon, by Formal Dinner) stands approximately 16 hands tall and is believed to be sound for any discipline. This 2011 gelding raced 20 times and earned over $30,000. He’s got personality to boot — just check out his listing for more images!

Leslie Law and Tout de Suite Win Poplar CIC3*, Jordan Linstedt Wins Advanced

By Sally Spickard on Mar 22, 2015 4:30 pm -

Leslie Law and Tout de Suite. Photo courtesy of Randy Traynor.

Leslie Law and Tout de Suite showed us all how it’s done in the CIC3* at Poplar Place today, taking their time but still coming home with enough in hand to clinch the win after cross country. The rain came down hard last night and today, so most participants planned to take it a bit easier around Tremaine Cooper’s course, but Leslie’s 14.4 time penalties were still low enough to keep them in a hefty lead. This pair finished on a final score of 54.5 for a great finish to the gelding’s first CIC3*.

Elinor MacPhail retained her second placed position aboard Rolex-bound RF Eloquence, accumulating 9.6 time for a final weekend score of 64.6. Elinor will head to North Carolina next for The Fork, where RF Eloquence is entered in the Advanced division as a final Rolex prep run.

Those who did put the pedal to the metal a bit more were rewarded with some jumps up the board. Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Fly Me Courageous moved up from seventh to third with one of the quicker rounds of the division, picking up 4.8 time penalties.

Nilson Moreira da Silva and Muggle also were able to move up from ninth to fourth with the second fastest ride of the day, accumulating 3.6 time penalties for a total of 67.2 for the weekend.

Cody Sturgess and Imperial Melody, who are also on the Rolex path, recorded the only double clear run of the day and were bumped from 14th to finish seventh on the weekend.

Justine Dutton had a scary moment with Jollybo, with whom she was in sixth after show jumping, taking a tumble at a bounce bank. We’re happy to report that both Justine and Jollybo will be back to fight another day, which is a big relief.

Jordan Linstedt reported on her Facebook page prior to cross country that she was planning to be careful on cross country today, and she came home with 10.4 time penalties, still good enough to take home the Advanced win. She and RevitaVet Capato are scheduled to make their final prep for Kentucky in the CIC3* at The Fork, so she’ll be pleased with the results this weekend as they gain momentum for Capato’s CCI4* debut.

Sara Kozumplik Murphy also had a great weekend with Catchascatchcan, remaining in second position after picking up 12.8 time on cross country for a final score of 48.7. Sara will also head to The Fork next, where she’s got Catchascatchcan entered in the Advanced, Fly Me Courageous in the CIC3*, and Sebastian in the CIC*.

Libby Head continued her successful weekend with a third place finish aboard her OTTB, Sir Rockstar. Libby and Rocky had the second fastest time in the division with 10 time penalties for a total of 49.5 for the weekend.

We’ll be updating this post later on today with photos from today’s action. Thank you to the Poplar Place organizers and photographers for keeping us informed this weekend!

Poplar Place Farm March H.T. & CIC: [Live Scores]

Michael Jung Seals the Deal at Fontainebleau CICO3*, France Wins First Leg of Nations Cup

By Sally Spickard on Mar 22, 2015 12:58 pm -

Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam clinching their win. Photo courtesy of Les Garennes.

Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam put the cherry on top of a triumphant weekend at Fontainebleau today, jumping clear with one time penalty in the show jumping to win on a cumulative score of 42.7. As we remarked earlier this weekend, this was Sam’s return to FEI competition after being withdrawn from the German WEG squad last year due to a minor hoof injury. It’s been said that Michael is aiming for Kentucky with both Sam and fischerRocana FST, who finished seventh with four penalties added today.

France also took home the first win of this year’s FEI Nations Cup, with Gwendolen Fer and Romantic Love, Lt. Col. Thibaut Vallette and Qing du Briot, and Arnaud Boiteau and Quoriano holding steady in the second through fourth positions. Team France dominated the Nations Cup competition, finishing with a total of 148.3 penalties, finishing nearly 30 points ahead of second placed Australia.

Australia’s Chris Burton and TS Jamaimo moved up to fifth place on the weekend with a double clear round, the highest placed Aussie pair. Izzy Taylor and KBIS Briarlands Matilda finished in sixth place after lowering one rail for a total score of 51.6.

Photo courtesy of Les Garennes.

Another pair rumored to be heading for Kentucky next month, Germany’s Andreas Dibowski and FRH Butts Avedon, finished their weekend in eighth place overall after a double clear effort today.

Just four pairs out of the remaining 34 starters managed to collect double clear jumping rounds today. Two horses were withdrawn at the final horse inspection this morning: Mon Segneur Barbotiere, ridden by French rider Marie Bertrand, and Nieve CP 32, ridden by Spain’s Carlos Diaz Fernandez.

Crown Talisman capped off a successful first FEI start with Nick Gauntlett by moving up two spots to finish in 16th overall with one rail down today. Tali ended his weekend on a total score of 65.8.

The next leg of the FEI Nations Cup will be held at Ballendenisk in Ireland April 24-26.

Fontainebleau Links: Scores

Rolex Entry Update: Entries Increase to 59

By Sally Spickard on Mar 22, 2015 9:00 am -

Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The Rolex entry list now boasts 59 strong entries, with several new additions making an appearance on this list yesterday. The entry list is a great mix of returning veterans and first time or up and coming riders, and we can’t wait to see who else has yet to make their entry known.

Sinead Halpin and The French Princess, otherwise known as Manoir de Carneville, will be making their third trip to Rolex together this year. “Tate”, who is 15 this year, returned to competition after some R&R upon returning from WEG last year.

Sinead and Tate have had great success at the CCI4* level, finishing third in their first attempt at Rolex in 2011, followed by a 15th and a second place finish at Burghley in 2011 and 2012, respectively, and a fourth place finish in Kentucky last year. This pair also completed WEG for Team USA in 38th place individually.

Anna Collier and Gleaming Road. Photo by Chesna Klimek.

Anna Collier, of Washington, and her own Gleaming Road will be making the trek East for Gleaming Road’s first CCI4*. Gleaming Road is an 11-year-old Thoroughbred gelding, and together with Anna he’s enjoyed much success at the Advanced and three-star level on the West Coast. Most recently, Anna and Gleaming Road picked up a 14th place finish in the Advanced at Twin Rivers.

Riding for Sweden, Jennie Jarnstrom is also making her first CCI4* start with her own 9-year-old Holsteiner gelding, Cape Town. Jennie and Cape Town most recently finished 18th in the CIC3* at Red Hills.

Bobby Meyerhoff and Dunlavin’s Token. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Making his second trip to Rolex, Bobby Meyerhoff and Dunlavin’s Token are also on the latest entry list. Bobby suffered a setback in 2014 when he injured his knee in a cross country schooling accident, but he was determined not to let the injury derail his plans to return to Kentucky this year. Bobby and Token will be riding with purpose in Kentucky this year, as they had an unlucky mishap on cross country last year that resulted in an early end to their weekend.

This will be the first trip back East for Bobby, who relocated to California last year. He and “Token”, a 15-year-old Zangershiede gelding, finished 15th in the CCI3* at Bromont last year and have returned to competition this year with a 12th place in the Prelim at Twin Rivers last month.

Bunnie Sexton and Rise Against at Bromont. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Bunnie Sexton also returns to the Rolex roster this year with Rise Against, her 16-year-old OTTB gelding. Bunnie and “Ecko” were slated to make their first CCI4* attempt in 2014, but Bunnie decided to withdraw Ecko in hopes of making the trip this year. We profiled Bunnie in her Rolex Rookies interview last year, which you can read here.

Be sure to stay tuned for more updates on the Rolex entries as they continue to come in. Just five more weeks to go!

[Rolex Entry List]

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Michael Jung Retains Fontainebleau CICO3* Lead, France Still Leads Nations Cup

By Sally Spickard on Mar 21, 2015 8:45 pm -

Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW on cross country. Photo courtesy of Les Garennes.

If there were any questions remaining regarding La Biosthetique Sam’s return to FEI competition this weekend, Michael Jung quickly silenced them in Ze Terminator fashion, clocking in a clear and quick cross country run today to hold the lead in the CICO3* at Fontainebleau in France.

Michael and Sam added 7.6 time penalties to their dressage score to take 41.7 penalties into tomorrow’s show jumping. He doesn’t have much breathing room, though, as he’s got less than a rail in hand over France’s Gwendolen Fer and Romantic Love, who rocketed up the board from 13th place with the quickest run of the day.

Gwendolen Fer and Romantic Love. Photo courtesy of Les Garennes.

Gwendolen and Romantic Love, a 10-year-old Selle Francais gelding, accumulated just 1.2 time penalties to take a two-day score of 45.3 into the show jumping competition tomorrow.

France is solidly in first position in the FEI Nations Cup competition thanks to three of their riders holding steady in the second through fourth positions after today.

Arnaud Boiteau and Lt. Col. Thibaut Vallette swapped spots on the board after lying second and third after dressage, adding just time to their dressage scores to sit in third and fourth, respectively, overnight.

Great Britain’s Izzy Taylor and KBIS Briarlands Matilda round out the top five with another quick round, adding 7.2 time to their dressage score, good enough to bump them from seventh on a cumulative score of 47.6.

Michael Jung’s other superstar, Fischerrocana FST, will remain in sixth place with 7.6 time penalties added. Consistency, anyone? Michael brought both of his rides home with exactly the same amount of time penalties.

U.S. bred Crown Talisman moved up a few spots, from 23rd to 18th, with Great Britain’s Nick Gauntlett after a clear round with 12.8 time penalties accumulated. Go Tali!

Cross country seems to have ridden quite well for the competitors, with just four pairs running into any trouble on course. One pair, France’s Stanislas de Zuchowicz and Qogoun des Ibis elected to retire on course.

Stay tuned for much more from Fontainbleau as the competition wraps up with show jumping tomorrow!

Fontainebleau Links: Schedule, Scores

Leslie Law Holds Poplar CIC3* Lead, Jordan Linstedt Takes Over Advanced

By Sally Spickard on Mar 21, 2015 8:06 pm -

Leslie Law and Tout de Suite. Photo courtesy of Jessica Lively.

The top three on the board in the CIC3* at Poplar Place remained unchanged after the pairs contested Jan Brodkin’s course today. Leslie Law and Tout de Suite jumped with no jumping penalties and one time penalty to remain in the lead going into cross country tomorrow on a score of 40.1.

The CIC3* course was definitely tricky, judging by the scores, as five out of 15 pairs jumped double clear. Second placed Ellie MacPhail and RF Eloquence accumulated four jumping and three time penalties to take a score of 55.0 into tomorrow.

Remaining in third are Julie Richards and Urlanmore Beauty, who added eight jumping faults to their score for a two-day total of 58.6.

Julie’s double clear effort aboard Beaulieu’s Cayenne was rewarded with a move up the board, from sixth to fourth on a score of 59.3. She’ll be racing against herself tomorrow!

Rounding out the CIC3* top five are Werner Given and Vandiver, who were also bumped up the standings after a double clear round today.

15 pairs will move into tomorrow’s cross country course designed by Tremaine Cooper.

Poplar Place Farm March H.T. & CIC [Website] [Omnibus] [Live Scores]

In the Advanced, Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato moved up from second to first with four jumping penalties for a two-day total of 35.7. Overnight leaders Brittany Kart and Llewellyn picked up eight jumping faults to move them down into fourth place.

Sarah Kozumplik Murphy and Catchascatchcan jumped from sixth to second after a double clear round today, one of just two in the division. This is the German Warmblood gelding’s second start at Advanced, and the weekend appears to be going swimmingly for this pair.

Nora Battig and Steppin’ Out also moved up, from fifth to third, with just four jumping penalties. The second double clear of the day belonged to Libby Head and Sir Rockstar, who are aiming for Luhmühlen this year, who round out the top five on a score of 39.5.

Cross country should be exciting tomorrow, as less than five penalties separate the top five currently.

Please enjoy this photo gallery from the show jumping today, courtesy of Jessica Lively and WNC Photography, the official Poplar Place photographer this weekend. We haven’t been able to positively identify all of the riders, so if you see yourself please email [email protected]. We didn’t want to mis-identify anyone!

: Photo courtesy of WRC Photography.

: Photo courtesy of WRC Photography.

: Photo courtesy of WRC Photography.

: Photo courtesy of WRC Photography.

: Photo courtesy of WRC Photography.

: Photo courtesy of WRC Photography.

: Photo courtesy of WRC Photography.

: Photo courtesy of WRC Photography.

: Photo courtesy of Jessica Lively.

: Photo courtesy of Jessica Lively.

: Photo courtesy of Jessica Lively.

: Photo courtesy of Jessica Lively.

: Photo courtesy of Jessica Lively.

Friday Video from World Equestrian Brands: Let’s Get to Know Lauren Billys

By Sally Spickard on Mar 20, 2015 6:30 pm -

PRO’s wonderful video series Faces of Eventing allows us to get to know a variety of riders around the country. This week, we have the opportunity to learn more about West Coast rider Lauren Billys, who represents her home country of Puerto Rico internationally and is aiming for this year’s Pan American Games in Toronto.

Many thanks to PRO and World Equestrian Brands for providing such a great resource to get to know some of our favorite riders!

Eventing Nation

Sally Spickard

Achievements

About Sally Spickard

Latest Articles Written

Rolex Entry Update: Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch Added, Historic 91 Entered

Thursday Video: Watch Jennie Brannigan’s Jockey Debut Aboard Where’s the Beef

Rolex Entry Update: Boyd Martin Enters Three, Entries at 89

Rolex Rookies: Cody Sturgess and Imperial Melody

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Carolina CIC3* Water Complex

Product Review: Padded Ponies Half Pad

Tuesday Videos from SpectraVET: Elisa Wallace’s Poplar Place Weekend

Get Creative with Your Rolex Tickets and Win a T-Series Helmet from Tipperary

USEF Accepting Bids to Host 2016 FEI Nations Cup Leg in U.S.

Andrew McConnon Learns from a Master with Ziggy

Rolex Entry Update: The Germans Are Coming

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: Laine Ashker’s Carolina International CIC3* Helmet Cam

Lynn Symansky to Syndicate Donner

Rolex Entry Update: Donner Makes His Return to Kentucky, 63 Now Entered

Product Review: A Horse Box

Fab Freebie: Win a Free Month of A Horse Box

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

Leslie Law and Tout de Suite Win Poplar CIC3*, Jordan Linstedt Wins Advanced

Michael Jung Seals the Deal at Fontainebleau CICO3*, France Wins First Leg of Nations Cup

Rolex Entry Update: Entries Increase to 59

Michael Jung Retains Fontainebleau CICO3* Lead, France Still Leads Nations Cup

Leslie Law Holds Poplar CIC3* Lead, Jordan Linstedt Takes Over Advanced

Friday Video from World Equestrian Brands: Let’s Get to Know Lauren Billys

Stable View

Success Equestrian

Sport Horse Nation

Kentucky Performance Products

Strides for Equality Equestrians

USEA

USEF

FEI