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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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Saturday Video: Get Your Morven Park Fix

By on Oct 4, 2014 12:00 pm -

Morven Park cross country is running today, and we find that it’s easier to pass the time when we can’t be there watching by stalking looking up videos from years past. Thanks to our good friend, Buzzterbrown, we found some great footage from last year’s Advanced division.

This event is probably one of the most scenic; Leesburg really is a poster child for picturesque eventing. There’s just something about the terrain and the bright fall colors that make me want to eat/drink everything pumpkin flavored and kick up my feet to binge watch some cross country action.

For more from Buzzterbrown, be sure to check out his YouTube channel.

Gina Miles Pulls Off a Big (Bridle) Save at Woodside

By on Oct 4, 2014 10:30 am -
Photo courtesy of Liz Hall. Photo courtesy of Liz Hall.

Those west coast eventers sure are handy with a sticky situation! We saw Avery Klunick’s Best. Save. Ever. last week at the AECs, but now Gina Miles is giving her a run for her money for that title.

Gina is contesting the CIC3* at Woodside this weekend aboard SVR Ron, who decided to put on the brakes just a few fences from home. Gina nearly fell from Ron as he scrambled backward from the fence, but she managed to stay on. Ron’s bridle and ear bonnet slipped off, leaving just the bit in his mouth. Gina was able to keep him calm, although the wayward leather was definitely not his favorite thing, and somehow maneuvered the bridle back into place before continuing on her way.

We’re not sure whose save was more epic: Avery’s or Gina’s? We can’t decide – both of these ladies deserve some sort of crazy special award!

Liz Hall was kind enough to send in her photos of this great save. Check out the gallery below to see how it all went down:

And never fear, Ride On Video was on hand to capture this save on video. We applaud you, Gina!

Mackenzie Spaes: University of Alabama Eventing Fluorishing In First Year

By on Oct 4, 2014 9:12 am -

Mackenzie Spaes is the president of the University of Alabama's eventing team, which has really grown and seen success in just its first year of operation. She's kindly sent in an update on her team and what they've been up to since forming. Do you have a tip or story on a collegiate team? Send it to [email protected].

UA Eventing Team members. UA Eventing Team members.

From Mackenzie:

I wrote a blog for Eventing Nation just one year ago, and I am thrilled to share that we have made huge milestones as an up and coming eventing team. Our team is only a year old; I was one of the founding members in the fall of 2013.

When the team was first founded I had no idea the accomplishments we were going to achieve in our first year. We have hosted two successful schooling shows and a clinic, and we have also sent two teams to the Collegiate Challenge at Chattahoochee Hills Spring Event in 2014. I never believed this was possible.

The most amazing thing about the sport of eventing is how much support you get from your fellow competitors. Everyone around us wanted to see us succeed and was standing right behind us through the hardships. I traveled to Chattahoochee Hills in the fall of 2013 with two other teammates. It was the first official Collegiate Challenge; none of us were competing, but we decided it would be beneficial to make an appearance and show how serious we were.

We set up a booth overlooking the beautiful facility and just waited. We didn’t know if we’d get donations, support from people, interest, or even just meet people. People slowly came up to us and introduced themselves, watched our video, and learned more about our upcoming team. I could see in their eyes how they appreciated the fact that even though we didn’t have horses, or members there to compete, we still showed up.

We left Chattahoochee Hills that day somewhat defeated. We hadn’t raised any money or received any donations and I didn’t really know where to go next. I knew that we needed some sort of kick start to get the ball rolling.

If it’s one thing I learned from the sport is that you can never give up no matter how defeated you feel. Eventers never quit. We persevere to achieve every goal we set. Our president at the time, Lizzie Walters, decided it would be best to contact other eventing teams and get ideas from them. UGA, Clemson, UK, etc… all had successful eventing teams and we knew we could learn from them.

Each team gave us a special piece of information that I knew would help us succeed. There are no words to describe how thankful I am to have such amazing collegiate eventers from other schools who always support each other. It makes this so much more rewarding.

After communicating with the other schools, we figured our best fundraising idea would be to sell t-shirts. We decided on a simple t-shirt with our logo and started to market it. The demand for them was insane, people were buying them left and right.

I finally felt like we were headed in the right direction. That was almost a year ago. I was elected president in the fall of 2014 and I cannot describe how honored I am to be chosen by my wonderful teammates.

Since the beginning of the school year, we have hosted a UA Eventing Clinic with Bryan Tweed and a combined test/schooling show with Nick Cwick as our judge. Bryan did an amazing job working with all of our team members. The basis of his teaching was surrounded by four elements we needed to master to improve our riding; direction, speed, balance, and rhythm. Four qualities that we understood as riders but sometimes overlooked. He taught us different exercises that would improve each quality while improving our riding in its entirety.

Our Fall Schooling Show was our biggest success as a team. We put on a combined test, jumper rounds, and even test’s of choice. Nick Cwick did a great job encouraging members and competitors with helpful comments in dressage. He was incredibly helpful and we’re happy to have him as a supporter of our team.

We are so thankful to have amazing people who continue to support our team and ensure that we are successful. Collegiate Eventing is becoming more and more successful everyday, and I’m so excited to be a part of it. Be on the lookout for our upcoming t-shirt order form.

Please like us on Facebook at UA Eventing! Thank you to all our sponsors and Ride, Tide, Ride!

Bea di Grazia and Lad’s Night Out Take Woodside CIC3* Lead

By on Oct 4, 2014 8:59 am -
Lauren Billys and Ballingowan Ginger. Photo by Chesna Klimek. Lauren Billys and Ballingowan Ginger. Photo by Chesna Klimek.

Dressage and show jumping for the CIC3* completed last night at Woodside, and it’s Bea di Grazia who has taken command on a score of 46.5 aboard Lad’s Night Out. This pair is coming off of a third place finish in the Intermediate division at Twin Rivers last month. Bea imported the Irish gelding when he was six and sold him to a junior rider before buying him back, a decision she’s likely not regretting in the least!

“I’m not going to do anything about the time. I’m not even going to wear a watch. I’m going to be accurate and correct at all the jumps and see how fast we end up. And it’s going to be really hot , so I’m not going to do anything silly,” Bea said of today’s cross country in a press release following show jumping.

Bonner Carpenter and Basco are in second place after dressage on a 47.7 in their third attempt at a CIC3*. They’ll be looking for a strong and educational round this weekend as they go for their first completion at this level.

James Alliston and Tivoli will hold down third place going into cross country after earning a 51.3. As Maggie pointed out in her predictions for this event, this pair has had some time off from competing together. This is Tivoli’s second run since Rolex in 2013, having completed an Intermediate at Woodside earlier this summer in fourth place.

Morven Park Fall CIC & H.T. [Website]  [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [By the Numbers]

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In the CIC2*, Lauren Billys and her prospective Rio mount, Castle Larchfield Purdy, moved from second to first after show jumping on a score of 52.2. Lauren also has Ballingowan Ginger in this division, currently in a tie for second. She’ll ride Ginger prior to Purdy on today’s cross country, which she said will help her get an idea of the time. “(Purdy’s) such a new horse for me that I just want to go out there and have an accurate ride. But he has such a huge step that the time might not be a big problem,” she said in a press release.

James Atkinson and Gustav lowered two rails to move down from their initial lead into the equal second place tie with Lauren Billys. McKena Knott and Flanigan are in fourth place after the first two phases, also knocking two rails for a score of 62.8.

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Nathan Grosse and Ray are your Woodside Advanced leaders after dressage and show jumping despite knocking one rail. The show jumping course was tough on this division. Ashlynn Muechel and Morning Star incurred 12 jump and 6 time for second place, followed by Rebecca Buehler and Brighton in third.

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Last, but certainly not least, good friend of EN Frankie Thieriot and Chatwin are the current CIC* leaders on a score of 43.7. Frankie knocked one rail over Derek di Grazia’s show jump course, but was able to move from second into first. This is the six-year-old’s first FEI competition, and Frankie said in a press release that she’ll decide how much to put the gas pedal down when she gets a feel for how confident her horse is today.

“The most important thing is to cement our partnership and to ride the course in a rhythm that does that, whether we finish first or second or eighth,” Frankie said. “I think he’s going to be a big-time horse, and the most important thing about this weekend is to get him ready for the CCI1* at Galway Downs next month.”

Asia Vedder and Gaelic Wealth are contesting their second FEI event after stepping up to Preliminary last fall. This pair has a fairly consistent record at the level and is in good striking position on a score of 47.1 in second place.

Ruth Bley and Rodrigue Du Granit, who have a couple of seasons at this level under their belts, are currently in third place after one of just three double clear rounds bumped them up from seventh after dressage.

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Rails Fly, Colleen Rutledge Hangs Onto Morven Park CIC3* Lead

By on Oct 3, 2014 4:30 pm -
Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights at Jersey Fresh in 2013. Photo by Jenni Autry. Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights at Jersey Fresh in 2013. Photo by Jenni Autry.

In what Leah Lang-Gluscic called a “hilly and slick” show jumping course, rails fell to the ground throughout the CIC3* division this afternoon. Just two pairs came home clear inside the time: Kate Samuels and Nyls du Terroir and Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace.

Despite having one rail down, Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights held onto their lead going into tomorrow’s cross country. Phillip Dutton and Seams Ready were also able to maintain their second place position with one rail lowered.

Kate Samuels moved up from fourth to settle into third place with her double clear round. Kate called Nyls a superstar on her Facebook page; this is definitely a great start to this pair’s fall season.

Kristin Schmolze and Ballylaffin Bracken dropped two rails to move from fourth into fifth place overnight. Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace bumped themselves up from eighth to sixth with their double clear round and put themselves into a great position looking forward to cross country.

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Rails were also frequent fliers in the Advanced division. A clear and fast round from Buck Davidson and The Apprentice allowed them to slide into the lead ahead of Phillip Dutton and I’m Sew Ready, who lowered one to add four to their score.

Allison Springer and Copycat Chloe enjoyed a nice move up, from a tie for eighth all the way to third, with a double clear round. Boyd Martin and Crackerjack also leaped up the board, from tenth to fourth, after leaving all of the rails intact. The top ten has definitely shifted after the show jumping, and could well change even further after the combinations take on Tremaine Cooper’s cross country course tomorrow.

Morven Park Fall CIC & H.T. [Website]  [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

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Don’t forget to check out the preview of the CIC3* cross country, complete with drone footage, that we posted earlier this afternoon.

Go Morven Park!

Check Out This Drone Fly-Through of the Morven Park CIC3* Cross Country

By on Oct 3, 2014 3:30 pm -
Click photo to view video.

Click photo to view video.

Tremaine Cooper kindly sent over this great preview of the CIC3* course at Morven Park, which the horses and riders will be tackling tomorrow. As is expected, the rolling terrain and gorgeous scenery really lend themselves to a course that is designed to challenge and invite all at once.

The fly through lends a helmet cam feel, and you can really get a feel for what Tremaine is asking as the course progresses. There is lots of room to gallop while still having technical questions that will really challenge the riders’ lines and commitment.

The CIC3* division may be light on entries, but it’s still stacked with talent so we’re sure to see some top quality rides across the board tomorrow. Many thanks to Tremaine and the Morven Park organizers for providing such a great video. Stay tuned for much more from Leesburg!

Morven Park Fall CIC & H.T. [Website]  [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Friday Video from World Equestrian Brands: RRP Throughbred Makeover

By on Oct 3, 2014 2:30 pm -

This weekend, eventers and others from around the equine industry will be at Pimlico Racecourse to promote the wonderful OTTB. The Retired Racehorse Project has done a great job of putting together this event, which spotlights former racehorses who are thriving in their new homes.

As we reported earlier, Laine Ashker, Jennie Brannigan, Phillip Dutton, and many more will be on hand throughout the weekend to showcase the breed and the sport of eventing. Former racer Icabad Crane, who is in the running to win this year’s makeover, will be one of the stars of the show. We’ve followed this horse’s eventing career this year, the coverage of which you can find here.

As Icabad Crane and the rest of the OTTB world prepares for this weekend’s showcase, here’s a look at some of his competitions from the year.

For more information on the RRP, click here.

 

 

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights Lead the Way in Morven Park CIC3*

By on Oct 3, 2014 12:00 pm -
Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights at Plantation Field. Photo by Jenni Autry. Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights at Plantation Field. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Scores are coming in from Morven Park this morning, and Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights scored a 45.0 to take the lead going into this afternoon’s show jumping. This score bests their previous two scores at this level handily, with the score from both Plantation Field and Richland Park coming in the 50s.

Phillip Dutton and the first of his two catch rides, Seams Ready, scored a 49.5 to sit in second place prior to show jumping. Phillip has been riding both Seams Ready and I’m Sew Ready for Kristen Bond this summer and fall as she prepares to have her first child.

Kristin Schmolze and Ballylaffin Bracken are in the top three on a score of 53.4. This is Ballylaffin Bracken’s first FEI event since completing in the top 20 at Rolex in April; the pair had one pipe-opening run at Five Points in the Intermediate earlier this month as their first event back.

Most of Maggie’s picks from her By the Numbers post on this division are right where they need to be to finish as predicted after the first phase. EN’s own Kate Samuels and Nyls du Terroir are in fourth currently on a score of 57.6, and Caroline Martin with Quantum Solace scored a 65.1 for eighth place. Both of these horses love to eat up cross country, so we’ll be on the lookout for them to make some moves up the board as competition progresses.

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In the Advanced division, Phillip Dutton and I’m Sew Ready are in the lead after scoring a lovely 26.8 this morning. We’ve got two scores in the 20s for this division, though, as Buck Davidson and The Apprentice earned a 29.1 for second place.

Elinor MacPhail and RF Eloquence complete the top three, just barely edging out of the 20s on a 30.3. Picked to win this division, it looks like Lauren Kieffer and Veronica are just completing the CCI4* test as their final prep for Pau, along with Sharon White and Wundermaske.

Less than 10 penalties currently separate the top 13 horses in the Advanced division, making for an exciting competition as the jumping phases approach. Many of these pairs are headed to Fair Hill, as are a few in the CIC3*, so we can expect to see some steady and solid rounds coming up as the rider’s look for a good run before their big fall three-day.

Morven Park Fall CIC & H.T. [Website]  [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

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Registration Now Open for the 2014 USEA Convention in Texas

By on Oct 3, 2014 10:26 am -

Eventers will once again converge upon Texas as the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention is slated to be held in Dallas from December 3-7. EN has covered the convention in years past and will do so again this year, and it’s always full of worthwhile lectures and seminars, not to mention plenty of elbow-rubbing and partying to satisfy even the most outrageous eventers.

This year, the keynote speaker for the convention will be Leslie Law, who will impart much of his knowledge and comedic relief on the audience. Also, the USEA’s annual awards will be given out, which is always a great way to recognize the top horses and riders in U.S. eventing.

Also on the ticket for this year are several educational opportunities that you won’t want to miss:

  • Eventing Calendar Forum for 2016 and Beyond — Open Forum
  • Buying Your Next Event Horse Suitable for Rider’s Age and Ability
  • Feeding Solutions for the High Performance Horse
  • Securing and Maintaining the Rider/Sponsor Relationship
  • USEA Intercollegiate Program Jumpstart
  • Rule Change Open Forum
  • WEG Discussion Panel — “What’s Keeping Us From Coming Out a Winner?”

Registration is now open, with a deadline of November 14 to receive reduced rates. The convention will be held at the Omni Hotel in Fort Worth, Texas. For more information, visit the USEA here.

USEA Convention Links: [Website] [Schedule] [Registration]

Watch Andrew Nicholson Break Down His Burghley Win

By on Oct 2, 2014 1:30 pm -

This year’s Burghley winner Andrew Nicholson took some time to chat about his historic weekend with Burghley TV, saying he knew he had a good horse underneath him from the beginning.

Andrew and Avebury went on to win their third consecutive Burghley title — he took the title in 2013 due to Jock Paget’s disqualification — a feat that is nothing short of incredible when considering the toughness of the Capt. Mark Phillips track and the toll it took on some of the other competitors.

It’s always a great learning opportunity to hear from riders at the top of the sport and to hear about their successes from their perspective. Many thanks to Burghley.tv and Andrew Nicholson for making such a great video.

[EN’s Burghley Coverage]

Mia Farley Finds Her Broom Aboard The Good Witch

By on Oct 2, 2014 12:00 pm -
Mia Farley and The Good Witch at the AECs. Photo by Sally Spickard. Mia Farley and The Good Witch at the AECs. Photo by Sally Spickard.

When looking for a new mount to take her up the levels two years ago, then 12-year-old Mia Farley found herself with the opportunity of a lifetime to team up with The Good Witch, Jen Wooten’s former upper-level partner. Now 14, Mia said the dark bay mare has taught her that big dreams really can come true, as she discovered this past weekend at the Nutrena USEA American Eventing Championships.

Mia, who hails from San Clemente, Calif., began riding at the age of 7 and quickly turned to eventing as her sport of choice. “I was riding a little paint pony before,” she said. “We were looking for a horse that I could move up on, and (The Good Witch) was an option we found as a lease.” Owned by Donn and Daisy Tognazzini, the mare retired from international competition in 2012.

In a career spanning eight years, Jen Wooten and “Pooh” completed 30 competitions at the Advanced and CCI4* level, including a go at five out of six of the world’s four-stars. And The Good Witch is no stranger to the AECs, as she won the Gold Cup in 2010. Her accolades also include being named 2008 USEA Mare of the Year.

Upon retirement, as with many horses of The Good Witch’s wisdom and experience, teacher became her new job title. It was then that Mia met the mare, and upon riding her for the first time, she knew it was a perfect fit.

“I don’t think I stopped smiling from the moment I got on,” Mia said of their first ride together. “I had to get used to her stride and style, but it was just such a good fit; I don’t think it could have worked out any better.”

So Mia and Pooh began their partnership together, training with Ginnie Bryant. The pair competed at Training level for their first two seasons of competition together, accumulating numerous top placings and finishing outside of the top five just once in 11 starts.

In 2013, Mia and Pooh journeyed to Texas to contest their first AECs together in the Junior Training division. They finished on their dressage score to take home fifth place in a large division of 29 combinations.

Coming out in 2014, Mia had her sights set on moving up to Preliminary, and she and Pooh contested their first event at that level at Galway Downs in February, once again finishing on their dressage score to take home the win.

Since then, these two have been unstoppable at Prelim, winning each start they’ve made leading up to their return to Texas for this year’s AECs. “The best part of riding her is that I get to experience a great canter,” Mia said. “There’s so much I feel I can do now thanks to her teaching and Ginnie’s coaching, and it’s just been a great experience.”

Mia and The Good Witch took home the Reserve Championships in the Junior/Young Rider Preliminary division this past weekend in Texas, adding nothing to their dressage score of 29.1. Their impressive dressage score wasn’t quite enough to catch wire-to-wire leaders Meghan Noelle Wilson and Ghypsy, but Mia still wore a big grin during the victory gallop, covered in ribbons for her efforts.

When asked about her goals for the future, Mia says she wants to go to the Olympics. “I know everyone says that, but I just keep learning that things are possible when you work hard,” Mia said. Mature beyond her young age, Mia and The Good Witch seem to have a bright future ahead of them, and we wish them luck in all of their future endeavors.

Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: Novice and Beginner Novice AEC Highlights

By on Sep 30, 2014 6:00 pm -

RNS Video has done a great job of putting up highlight reels from the Nutrena American Eventing Championships this weekend. The recap of the Novice and Beginner Novice winners is now available for our viewing enjoyment.

We particularly enjoyed watching Novice Horse winners Corinna Garcia and Jamaica Skodstrupp, her “horse of a different color,” the second pair in the Novice video. What a cool looking horse!

For more highlights from AEC weekend, be sure to check out both our coverage and the RNS Video YouTube page.

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Novice and Beginner Novice Wraps Up a Big Texas Weekend

By on Sep 28, 2014 4:30 pm -
Ashley Russell and Philharmonic at the AECs. Photo by Sally Spickard. Ashley Russell and Philharmonic at the AECs. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The Nutrena American Eventing Championships have officially wrapped up at the Texas Rose Horse Park, and I can say with confidence that it was a great, well-organized event for all in attendance. Once again, I can’t thank the USEA and Robert Kellerhouse enough for their organization, Michelle Dunn for managing the press center efficiently with a smile all weekend, and all of the countless volunteers, judges, officials, and riders that helped make this event run smoothly. It’s not easy to host this many divisions and competitors, but Texas pulled it off once again. I can’t wait to be back next year!

The Novice and Beginner Novice combinations show jumped today to close out the competition, and we saw some more great results coming through.

#USEAAEC: Website, Live Scores, Ride Times, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, USEA’s Coverage, @eventingnation, EN’s Instagram

Another wire to wire win was seen in the Junior Novice division, with Seguin Alexander and Motion Granted finishing on their dressage score of 22.5. Emma Ciafone and Cady O’Daly Gabriel also finished on their dressage score to finish in second, followed by Lily Huval and Simply Archie.

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Corinna Garcia and Jamaica Skodstrupp came from behind with a double clear round to take the Novice Horse win after overnight leaders Andrea Leatherman and Mr. Poppers had one rail down to finish in third. Julie Wolfert and Buenas Suerte picked up second place with a clear round, which Julie will be pleased with considering the Thoroughbred gelding has still been figuring out which way his legs go in show jumping!

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Colorado’s Kristin Hardy and Enchanted swept the top honors in the Senior Novice division, adding no penalties to their dressage score of 27.5. Hannah Smitherton and Sir Lamp Chop (cute name!) moved up from third to take over second, followed by Carrie Landry and Our Questionnaire, Heather Gillette’s former upper level ride.

I also have to make mention of Britt Sabbah and Saint Louie, one of my oldest friends from the summer camp days at the barn. Britt recently converted to the dark side eventing and rides with Jennifer Wooten of Trinity Eventing. When I spoke with her earlier this week, she said Louie had settled in exceptionally well at Texas Rose, and that calmness translated into a fifth place finish in their first AECs. Congratulations, Britt!

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In the Beginner Novice Horse division, Erin Pullen and Strider Can Fly maintained their lead from dressage and never looked back, finishing on an impressive 20.0. I was able to see Erin out on cross country, and she really looked to be having a blast with Strider as they flew around.

Laura Corsentino and Gravitas picked up second place, also finishing on their dressage score of 22.0. Cathy Wieschhoff and Yacht Club Debt (also a great name!) moved up from fourth to take home the yellow for their efforts this weekend.

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Melissa Morris and RSR Private Eye will go home with the blue ribbon in the Junior Beginner Novice, moving up from third with a double clear round. Leading overnight, Hannah Gurske and Buenos Dias had an unlucky rail and take second place home with them – a great achievement for this new partnership! Kelly Rischard and Wyatt ended their weekend in third on a score of 28.0.

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Maddalyn Hunt and Jos Estoico won the Junior Beginner Novice – 14 & Under on their dressage score of 24.5, followed by Molly Humes and Madoc Golden Graham and Grace Peters aboard Dream Catcher. I’m always just so impressed seeing these young riders do so well in very large divisions – I’m not sure I could handle the pressure, myself!

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And finally, Area IV darling Jill Wagenknecht and C.D. Dancer led from start to finish in the Senior Beginner Novice to take home the winner’s spoils. I’ve heard through the grapevine that Jill’s mare is just to die for, and after catching a glimpse in a video earlier this week, I might just have to agree!

Kelly Quick and Better Than Chocolate also finished with no added penalties in second place, followed by Jenna Calcaterra and Santos, who were able to move up to third from seventh place – a great finish for this pair!

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Preliminary Riders Close Out Exciting AEC Weekend

By on Sep 28, 2014 1:30 pm -
Alex Wikstrom and Change Order, who took second place in the Senior Preliminary. Photo by Sally Spickard. Alex Wikstrom and Change Order, who took second place in the Senior Preliminary. Photo by Sally Spickard.

We saw some really classy Preliminary show jumping rounds yesterday and have to send a shout out to the winners. Darlenne McInnis and Warlord took home the top honors in the senior division, the only pair to finish on their dressage score and one of just two double clear show jump rounds yesterday to finish on a score of 28.3.

Alex Wikstrom and Change Order lowered one rail but still moved up from fourth to second overall. She’s taking home some really great prizes, and she looks understandably thrilled, as you can see in the photo above.

Rounding out the top three is Christina Henriksen and Princess Paven, who had two rails down for a final score of 39.4. Christina commented earlier this week that her mare was still a bit green, and with that considered she should be thrilled with her finish at her first AEC.

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In the junior division, the pressure was on for Meghan Noelle Wilson after the riders before her jumped double clear rounds. Cool as a cucumber, she piloted Ghypsy to a double clear herself, cementing the wire to wire victory on a final score of 27.6.

Apologies for cutting off the top of the head, but look at that smile over the last from Meghan! Photo by Sally Spickard.

Apologies for cutting off the top of the head, but look at that smile over the last from Meghan! Photo by Sally Spickard.

In second place were Mia Farley and The Good Witch, who jumped a beautiful round to remain on their dressage score. The junior riders also put in some super show jumping rounds, which is very exciting considering that they represent part of the next generation of the sport.

Caroline Testi and Crimson Tide. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Caroline Testi and Crimson Tide. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Caroline Testi and Crimson Tide finished in third place, also on their dressage score of 30.9. Congrats to the top finishers!

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Heather Morris and Charlie Tango were the wire-to-wire winners in the Preliminary Horse division, adding nothing to their dressage score of 25.4. This is Charlie Tango’s first year at Prelim, and the win this weekend marks his third at this level.

Tamie Smith continued her great weekend with a second place finish aboard Dempsey. Tamie was in fourth for the majority of the weekend and was able to move up with a strong double clear round on a day when rails were falling frequently.

Moving up from fifth to third was Kadi Eykamp and Double Rivers Rockstar, who also finished on their dressage score of 30.0. Interestingly enough, it looks like Kadi more or less catch rode this horse for the weekend, as she’s only competed him a handful of times in the past couple of years. Well done, Kadi!

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We’ll be back later on today with a wrap up from the Beginner Novice and Novice divisions, which complete competition today, as well as a wrap on the rest of the events running this weekend. Stay tuned!

#USEAAEC: Website, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, USEA’s Coverage, @eventingnation, EN’s Instagram

Memory of Christine Brown Lives On In Mr. Poppers

By on Sep 28, 2014 11:50 am -
Andrea Leatherman and Mr. Poppers. Photo via Lainey Ashker's IG. Andrea Leatherman and Mr. Poppers. Photo via Lainey Ashker's IG.

A handsome black horse trotted around the Novice Horse dressage arena on Friday, turning heads and scoring a 21.5 to take the lead in a large and highly competitive division. But it wasn’t the dressage score that meant the most to this horse’s owners and connections – it was the fact that he was here in Texas competing in the first place.

Mr. Poppers is a six-year-old Canadian Sport Horse gelding owned by Dr. Stuart Brown, husband to the late Christine Brown. Piloted by Andrea Leatherman, “Sam” represents much more than a 21.5. He represents the fond memories of a woman who loved her animals more than just about anything else.

“I met Stuart and Christine a few years ago when Christine called me and asked if I’d come and do a clinic in Kentucky,” Buck Davidson said. “I stayed at their house and I just loved them from the start. They were the most genuine, caring people.“

Christine had a strong affinity for animals, rescuing any animal she could to give it a better life at her home. “The care that the Browns put into their animals was so thoughtful, and I just admired them. Since the tragedy, Stuart and I have become very close and I am honored to call him one of my best friends now.”

After the tragic riding accident that claimed Christine’s life in 2013, Stuart had to make decisions on what to do with Christine’s horses, namely Mr. Poppers. “Stuart asked if I’d be willing to take ‘Sam’ into my barn,” Buck recalled. “I was honored that a man of his stature would have one of his horses in my barn, and we took Sam in and began working with him.”

Stuart and Christine both held Buck in a high regard when it comes to his care and love for the horses in his barn, and Stuart was confident that sending Sam to Buck for training would be what Christine wanted for the talented horse.

“Stuart is a gentle, compassionate, and classy guy,” Buck said. “They also have a racehorse that was with Graham Motion, because they had a lot of respect for him. It’s been such an honor to have Sam and represent Christine. I only hope I can treat Andrea the same way he treated Christine.”

It was Buck’s soon to be wife, Andrea, who ended up taking over the ride on the fancy gelding, and the pair has now completed five events at the Novice level this year, including the American Eventing Championships this weekend.

The Davidson camp celebrating Mr. Poppers’ impressive dressage score and double clear cross country and focused on the final phase, set to compete earlier this morning. Stuart took time off of work to come down to Texas to watch his horse compete, and it’s been a great weekend of reminiscing and laughing – what Christine would have wanted.

Andrea and Mr. Poppers lowered one rail in the show jumping this morning to take third overall. “Win, lose, or draw, we’ve still won this weekend,” Buck said. “Just to be able to have Stuart here and to see Andrea and Sam, knowing what the horse represents, it’s what Christine would have wanted. If a rail comes down, so be it. What’s important is that we’re all here celebrating Christine and enjoying the horses, and that is really what the sport is about.”

Avery Klunick Wins ‘Best Save Ever’ Award

By on Sep 28, 2014 8:51 am -
Avery Klunick and It It to Win It. Photo by Sally Spickard. Avery Klunick and It It to Win It. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Avery Klunick and In It to Win It enjoyed a smooth round around Richard Jeffery’s show jumping course in the Adequan USEA Gold Cup final yesterday – until fence 9, that is. Approaching a black and white vertical, In It to Win It slammed on the brakes, the momentum causing Avery to go up the neck a bit, taking the bridle off in the process.

With the bridle off, In It to Win It took a few trot steps towards the in gate but stayed calm and stopped when Avery asked. Since both dismounting and asking for or accepting assistance would have resulted in elimination, Avery only had one choice if she were to continue on her way: find a way to get the bridle back in its place.

“It was really surprising that he stopped, he was jumping so well up to that point,” Avery said. “I just didn’t close my leg enough and he stopped pretty hard and I literally thought I was falling off.

“He was a really good boy and he just let me push myself back on. And then I wasn’t sure what to do, I looked at the people by the arena and asked if anyone could help and they said they couldn’t if I wanted to continue. And Tamie (Smith) said ‘Put it on!’ so I just reached down and grabbed the bridle. I felt like it was taking forever, and I was thinking ‘why are they letting me just run around the arena?’ I was waiting for them to buzz me out!“

Clear on the second attempt! Photo by Sally Spickard.

Clear on the second attempt! Photo by Sally Spickard.

Avery calmly reached forward and slipped the bridle back on her horse’s head. Luckily, she was riding in a hackamore, which likely made it much easier to put back on. Avery got the main parts of the bridle back on, but the throatlatch remained over her horse’s forehead. “Everyone was asking why I had my throatlatch that way, but I just couldn’t get it back underneath!,” Avery said.  Either way, Avery magically got situated and continued on her way.

“I was just crawling on him and hanging on him like a spider, and he was such a saint,” Avery said. “I’m really lucky that he didn’t run off or jump out because it easily could have been really bad and one or both of us could have gotten hurt.”

The crowd roared its delight, and the pair went on to finish their round with a big smile (and perhaps a slight smirk from In It to Win It). Avery is heading to Fair Hill next, and in her racing mind after “Winston” stopped, she thought that she really needed to finish on a good note so that they were ready for Fair Hill.

“I was literally thinking a million things at the time, which felt like 10 minutes passing, and I just really wanted to finish. I really thought they were just laughing at me up in the announcer booth so they weren’t going to buzz me out!”

I asked Avery last night if she planned to purchase the video so we could all relive the epic save, and she answered with a definitive ‘yes!’. This came as a relief, as Maggie and I were talking about starting a Kickstarter to purchase it if Avery wasn’t going to. Thanks for saving us the work, Avery!

Check out Avery’s epic save in the video below, thanks to RNS Video. What’s your most epic save moment?

Girls’ Day Out: Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster Win 2014 Merial Open Intermediate at AECs

By on Sep 27, 2014 10:57 pm -
Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster. Photo by Sally Spickard. Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster. Photo by Sally Spickard.

I’ve been watching Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster’s partnership all weekend, and I couldn’t helped but be impressed by the talent this mare shows. After putting in a relaxed dressage test that put this pair into fifth place, Tamie and “Chloe” moved up to fifth after a clear and fast cross country run, and finally clinched the win with a double clear trip around Richard Jeffery’s show jump course this afternoon.

Tamie and Chloe received some of the loudest cheers we heard all day – clearly this California pair is popular! This seven-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare jumped beautifully today, adding another accolade to her already impressive resume. Keep your eye out for this one, EN!

Buck Davidson and Quasar. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Buck Davidson and Quasar. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Overnight leaders Buck Davidson and Quasar unfortunately had just one unlucky rail down today, leaving them in second place overall. Quasar is still relatively young and a newer ride for Buck, so you can expect this pair to continue to build on this weekend as their time together continues.

Bailey Moran and Loughnatousa Caislean. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Bailey Moran and Loughnatousa Caislean. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Young rider Bailey Moran and Loughnatousa Caislean had a rock star weekend as well, steadily moving up from sixth after dressage to take home the third place honors. This pair has only finished outside of the top 10 one time since moving up to the Intermediate level this year. I’m sure we can expect an Eventing Dad blog any day now full of proud father moments for Bailey.

Julie Richards rode two professional looking rounds aboard Beaulieu’s Cayenne and Urlanmore Beauty to finish in fourth and fifth, respectively. This is the first year at this level for both horses, and this weekend was Urlanmore Beauty’s fourth run at the level, including a CIC2* last month.

Two fences seemed to come down the most, both of which were red,white, and blue USEA jumps. The first was an oxer heading directly towards the spectators watching on a hill, and the second was the last fence on course, a vertical that was pointed towards the in-gate. The course was demanding and required a rider to really ride accurate turns and keep their horses in front of their leg.

Elisa Wallace and Corteo. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Elisa Wallace and Corteo. Photo by Sally Spickard.

In second place after cross country, Elisa Wallace and Corteo knocked two disappointing rails to end their weekend in seventh. Elisa posted on her Facebook page later on that she was disappointed in her rails, but she can still go home pleased with the effort that Corteo put in this weekend.

A bit less than half of the division were able to turn in clear rounds. One pair was unfortunately eliminated: Caroline Martin and Roller Skate, who took a strong disliking to oxers and stopped twice. Caroline gave Roller Skate a pat as they exited the ring, and I’m sure this pair will bounce back just fine.

#USEAAEC: Website, Live Scores, Ride Times, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, USEA’s Coverage, @eventingnation, EN’s Instagram

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Buck Davidson and Petite Flower Win 2014 Adequan USEA Gold Cup

By on Sep 27, 2014 7:28 pm -
Buck Davidson and Petite Flower. Photo by Sally Spickard. Buck Davidson and Petite Flower. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Buck Davidson and Petite Flower put all of the pieces together today, jumping a lovely and quiet clear round to win the 2014 Adequan USEA Gold Cup here at the Nutrena American Eventing Championships.

Buck entered the arena originally in fourth place, but one rail dropped by each of the top three ushered Buck in to take home the winnings. Buck commented in yesterday’s press conference that he’s really been working hard with Flower to get her prepared for Fair Hill, and he will be thrilled with his results this weekend leading up to the big three-day in October.

Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Defending champions Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch entered the ring looking cool and collected, and really jumped a lovely round with a heartbreaking rail that came at the first fence of one of the triple combinations. Laine will surely be disappointed, but she should still be supremely proud of a lovely performance all weekend, even with a night spent in the hospital!

Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Matthew Brown continued his successful weekend in his first trip East with his two California horses, taking home third with Super Socks BCF. “Flaxen” got away with a few rubs and had just one rail down to drop from second to third, but he should still feel prepared for the Fair Hill CCI3*, the next stop on his road trip.

Jon Holling and DHI Zatopek B. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Jon Holling and DHI Zatopek B. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Jonathan Holling said last night that he’s been working to get DHI Zatopek B back on track after a patchy spring season, and the horse looked strong and confident in the show jumping today, dropping one rail in the first treble to drop down from third into fourth. Jon’s other horse, Proper Timing, was the first in the ring this afternoon and also dropped a single round.

Barb Crabo and Eveready. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Barb Crabo and Eveready. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Barbara Crabo turned in the only other double clear round of the day aboard Eveready – what a lovely weekend for these two! Hailing from California, Barb added just eight time on cross country to take away fifth place overall.

Avery Klunick officially wins the “true grit” award for her tough round today. In It To Win It put on the breaks at a black and pink vertical about midway through the course, and the horse’s bridle slid off in the process. In It To Win It was a good boy and didn’t run off, and Avery was able to slip her bridle back on, much to the delight of the crowd, and finished her round to raucous cheers that resembled a reining competition. You go, girl!

I have to now drive as fast as I (il)legally can to make my departing flight, I will have full recaps on the Intermediate as well as the other divisions that competed today later on tonight.

In the meantime, I must give a HUGE thank you to the USEA and all of the officials, volunteers, judges, announcers, and spectators for making this a great weekend in Texas. It may be a hike for some, but I can’t recommend this event enough. I could go on for many more paragraphs, but I will leave it at this: the AECs rock!

#USEAAEC: Website, Live Scores, Ride Times, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, USEA’s Coverage, @eventingnation, EN’s Instagram

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Who Jumped It Best? Broadstone Beginner Novice Horse Edition

By on Sep 27, 2014 4:30 pm -
Erin Pullen and Strider Can Fly. Photo by Sally Spickard. Erin Pullen and Strider Can Fly. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Our Junior Training edition of the Who Jumped It Best? series was a huge hit yesterday, so we’ve got another one for you today! The Beginner Novice and Novice horses were out on cross country today, and I was able to get out to see some of the Broadstone Beginner Novice Horse this afternoon.

So, EN, you know what to do! Pick your favorite and vote for the winner of the eternal EN karma.

Erin Pullen and Strider Can Fly. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Erin Pullen and Strider Can Fly. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Ingvill Ramberg and Jamie's Private Collection. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Ingvill Ramberg and Jamie’s Private Collection. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Jennifer Taxay Kelly and Granstom. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Jennifer Taxay Kelly and Granstom. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Jenny Lantz and Kawliga. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Jenny Lantz and Kawliga. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Kimberly Willnow and Ashes to Ashes. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Kimberly Willnow and Ashes to Ashes. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Ashley Russell and Philharmonic. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Ashley Russell and Philharmonic. Photo by Sally Spickard.

AEC Training Level Divisions Wrap Up in Exciting Finale

By on Sep 27, 2014 3:00 pm -
Emerson Gotcher and Kurious in the Junior Training division at AECs. Photo by Sally Spickard. Emerson Gotcher and Kurious in the Junior Training division at AECs. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Emerson Gotcher and Kurious won two prestigious events today at the AECs: the Junior Training division and the Who Jumped It Best? from yesterday’s cross country. What a weekend for Emerson!

#USEAAEC: Website, Live Scores, Ride Times, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, USEA’s Coverage, @eventingnation, EN’s Instagram

Emerson and her Irish Sport Horse gelding have won here at Texas Rose previously, picking up the blue in their Training division back in March. Since then, the pair has finished in the top five at their other Training starts this year and culminated their hard work with a come from behind win in the show jumping today.

Richard Jeffery’s show jumping course proved to be influential for the Junior Training riders today, with overnight leader Natasha Erschen knocking picking up a total of nine penalties to move down into seventh. A clear round from Emerson allowed her to move up and take the top spot after sitting in third after cross country.

Arden Stephens and No More Rocks also moved up, coming from fourth to finish second with a clear round. Sofia Guarachi and Fernhill Shannondale moved from fifth into third after jumping clear.

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Brittany Vinson and Falcon Dusty Tiger also came from behind to win the Senior Training division after taking third place into today’s show jumping. This is a solid Training level pair, having competed at this level for a couple of years now with a few runs at Preliminary. A well deserved win, Brittany!

Claire Gordon and Ole Boy also jumped clear to move from fourth into second overall. This pair was in fifth after the dressage and steadily climbed up the board to finish on their dressage score of 30.5.

Melissa Fox and Diamond Legacy moved up as well, coming from fifth to finish third after jumping double clear.

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Heather Morris and Russell are enjoying a win in the Training Horse division after a double clear round today. This pair moved up from a tie for second to win the whole thing. This horse moved up to Training level this year, only placing outside of the top 10 once. This is Heather and Russell’s second consecutive win, with the last coming here at Texas Rose back in June.

Beau Gimmond and Filibuster ST had one unfortunate rail in their round today to go into second overall. Candace Wheeler Bell and Fernhill Jet, in tenth after the dressage, finished on their dressage score of 33.6 after two double clear jumping rounds to take third overall.

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Golf Carts Gone Wild at the AECs

By on Sep 27, 2014 1:30 pm -

We launched an awesome contest for those in attendance at the Nutrena American Eventing Championships this weekend, challenging contestants to decorate their stall or golf carts with the most insanity they could possibly manage.

We’re happy to report that our entrants were most definitely up to the challenge and delivered some of the craziest, most fun decorations we’ve ever seen. We’re thinking that this might have to be a perennial contest – what do you think, EN?

Our first place winners hail from BABS Eventing out of Great Falls, Virginia. We profiled Ashley Russell’s incredible story here on EN a few days ago, and she and her cohorts took their golf cart decorations to the next level. Judge Laine Ashker was beside herself with the skeleton (“Babs”), the C4 belt, and all of the pink she could handle. Way to steal the judge’s heart, Team BABS!

Team BABS for the win! Photo by Sally Spickard.

Team BABS for the win! Photo by Sally Spickard.

Ashley and the rest of Team BABS came away with plenty of loot from our generous sponsors: Cosequin, FLAIR, Success Equestrian, Do or Do Knot, and Smart Tie. Enjoy your spoils, Ashley!

That's a winner! Ashley Russell and Laine Ashker. Photo by Sally Spickard.

That’s a winner! Ashley Russell and Laine Ashker. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The rest of the competition was close, making for a very tough decision for Laine. Not to be outdone, our second placed finisher hails from Minnesota, so they did a fun take on a northern theme for their golf cart.

A modern horse-drawn sleigh? Photo by Sally Spickard.

A modern horse-drawn sleigh? Photo by Sally Spickard.

Decorated by Bill and Ingvill Ramberg and Jennifer Stevens, this cart looks like a modern take on the horse-drawn sleigh – something that’s probably much needed during those cold Minnesota winters!

Photo by Sally Spickard.

Photo by Sally Spickard.

And last, but certainly not least, we had an appearance from the world’s cutest minions on our third placed entry. Decorated by Bigtime Eventing, consisting of Lauren Eckardt, Leila Saxe, Carla Jimmerson, and Annie Stolberg, this golf cart had two minions at the helm and plenty of color to stand out in the crowd.

Minions

How did they manage to see out the back? Photo by Sally Spickard.

Here’s where I share an embarrassing tidbit with you, EN: I actually have a massive phobia of balloons. I think I had some sort of traumatic (or as traumatic as you can get with balloons!) experience as a youngster and always feel some anxiety when I’m in close range. Luckily, I had Laine with me to judge so I didn’t have to get too close!

Look at those minion smiles! Photo by Sally Spickard.

Look at those minion smiles! Photo by Sally Spickard.

All of the winners were thrilled to receive their prizes, rightfully so! We’re so happy to have had the chance to see everyone’s creativity. Once again, we’d like to extend a huge thank you to our sponsors who made this contest possible, as well as to Laine Ashker for taking the time out of her busy schedule to help out. We can’t wait to do it all again next year.

Ingvill Ramberg enjoys her prize. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Ingvill Ramberg enjoys her prize. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Much more still to come from the AECs, so keep it locked right here on EN!

 

Prelim and Training AEC Riders Take Charge of Challenging Cross Country Day

By on Sep 26, 2014 10:35 pm -
Emerson Gotcher and Kurious in the Junior Training division at AECs. Photo by Sally Spickard. Emerson Gotcher and Kurious in the Junior Training division at AECs. Photo by Sally Spickard.

I spent a bit of time out on the course today watching the Training riders. The courses seemed to be riding fairly well, while still holding true to their championship status. The rides I saw in the Junior Training division looked solid, although the technicality of some of the combinations definitely made some riders really earn their keep.

In the Junior Training, Natasha Erschen and Magic Drummer were able to move from second into first after overnight leader Kelsey Holmes decided to retire after picking up two refusals. Tashi Brundige and Ringo Star (one of my favorite names, behind Fernhill Patronus Charm #potterheadsunite) moved up from fourth to second, and Emerson Gotcher with Kurious also moved up, from fifth to third.

#USEAAEC: Website, Live Scores, Ride Times, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, USEA’s Coverage, @eventingnation, EN’s Instagram

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In the Senior Training, Anne Kornak and Double Rivers Really Cool have taken command after a clear and fast round. Unfortunately, leaders Carrie Meehan and Cavalier retired on course, saying on Facebook that it just wasn’t their day. We know Carrie will be back to her winning ways in no time at all!

The remainder of the top three remains unchanged, with the third and fourth placed riders after dressage moving up into second and third: Pamela Kimmel and Special Performance and Brittany Vinson with Falcon Dusky Tiger.

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Beau Gimmond took sole possession of the Training Horse division aboard Filibuster ST after a double clear run across country today. Heather Morris and Russell jumped from a tie for fifth to second after today, and Elliot Blackmon and W.H. Topgun retained their third place position.

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In the Training Adult Team Challenge, the division is down to just two riders after Jean Fowler and NZ Bay of Islands retired on course. Aside from that, the standings remain unchanged with Carrie Polson and High Maintenance holding onto the lead and Cindy De Porter with Drop the Buck holding second place.

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The Preliminary riders also had a great day out on cross country today. In the Jr/YR division, Megan Noelle Wilson and Mia Farley are still battling for the top placings, remaining in first and second, respectively, after double clear runs. I had a chance to speak with Mia about her leased ride, The Good Witch, so keep an eye out for another story forthcoming.

Impressively, the majority of these young riders went double clear around a very challenging track. Five pairs came home with time, and there was one rider fall on the scores. What a successful day for these next-gen eventers!

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Heather Morris holds onto the lead in the Preliminary Horse division with Charlie Tango, sitting on a 25.4 after a double clear round today. Erin Kellerhouse positively rocked her way around the course with Rafaella to remain in second. A tie for fourth place was broken when Leslie Law came home closer to the optimum time with Unborn de Lelo, followed by Tamie Smith on Dempsey.

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In the Senior division, overnight leaders Christina Henriksen and Princess Paven came home with just 1.2 time penalties, which was unfortunately enough to drop them into second. Christina will likely be thrilled with her talented mare, who she has produced herself, and heads into show jumping less than a rail behind new leaders Darlene McInnes and Warlord.

Kentucky’s Pamela Kimmel and Midnight Special moved up from fifth to third after another clear and fast round.

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In the Adult Team Challenge, the standings remain relatively unchanged, with just second and third swapping spots after today. Catie Cejka and Light in the Dark remain in the lead with a double clear round, one of two in the division.

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