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Sally Spickard
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Sally Spickard

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About Sally Spickard

Sally Spickard is a Korean adoptee living in San Diego, California. Sally joined the Eventing Nation team in 2013 and has subsequently written for Noelle Floyd, Heels Down Mag, and other publications both in and out of the equestrian world. Sally is an eventing fan through and through and enjoys telling the stories of riders who are not well-represented within equestrian media.

Latest Articles Written

Wednesday News & Notes from Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International

By on Jan 4, 2023 12:01 am -

Please join us in welcoming the 2023 Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International CCI & H.T. to the Eventing Nation family of partners! We’re getting keyed up for the upcoming International, celebrating its 10th anniversary March 16-19 in Raeford, NC. A key stop on the Land Rover Kentucky prep calendar as well as a popular stopover for riders competing at other FEI levels and moving up the National levels, Carolina International always seems to help usher in a bustling international eventing season here in the U.S. and this year, due to calendar modifications, is the first 4*-S of the year.

We’ll be bringing you much more about Carolina as we approach, including content about this year’s incoming title sponsor, Setters’ Run Farm — you may recognize the name as associated with super eventing supporter Annie Eldridge, who among other things decorating her busy schedule owns horses for FEI World Championships rider Ariel Grald.

[More on the Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International]

We’re just one week removed from the kick off of the new calendar year’s worth of competing — hang in there, score-stalking junkies!

Wednesday News & Reading

This week marks the beginning of the new EA21 National Camp, hosted in Ocala via the USEA’s Emerging Athlete 21 program. 19 young riders are taking part in this weeklong National Camp via invitation after participation in the various regional camps around the country. David O’Connor was the coach tapped for the first day of instruction, which saw the riders working on fundamentals, critical thinking, and practical application. [Focusing on Fundamentals on Day One of EA21 National Camp]

As winter hits Ukraine, the Ukrainian Equestrian Charity Foundation is seeking donations of hay and blankets as it continues to provide aid to those fleeing or otherwise affected by the ongoing war with Russia. [UECF Seeks Hay and Blankets]

If you’re in Ocala this winter, you can check out the return of a popular schooling jumper series hosted at a collection of farms in the area. The series kicks off at Will Coleman’s this week and rotates to Sara Kozumplik’s Overlook South next week. [Check out the full schedule]

“No horse, no hoof” will never not ring true, and this theory applies in a recent study conducted by PhD candidate Yogi Sharp, Dipl. WCF, BSc (Hons). His goal was to test the notion that hind hoof balance has much to do with the overall musculoskeletal posture and health of the horse. “I just wanted to specifically test the theory of the hoof being a neurosensory organ that informs posture because, you know, that’s been suggested, but no one’s ever actually quantified or tested it,” Sharp said to TheHorse.com. [Correcting Hind Hoof Balance Could Fix Whole-Horse Issues]

Wednesday Video Break

Since we’re in a Carolina mood today, here’s a throwback helmet cam from Elisa Wallace and Simply Priceless in 2018:

Tuesday Video: Learning How to ‘Fail’ with Landsafe

By on Jan 3, 2023 2:30 pm -

If you’ve ever attended a Landsafe Equestrian clinic put on by Danny and Kelli Warrington, you know the basic concepts behind the idea of falling in a safer way that could help reduce risk of severe injury in the event of a rotational fall. If you haven’t attended, we’ve got the perfect vlog to take a peek behind the scenes and pique your interest.

YouTuber Gypsy Equestrian, based in Texas, recently attended a Landsafe clinic and gleaned a lot of useful information, even as a rider who doesn’t event herself. There are a lot of fundamental topics covered in these excellent clinics, which focus on rider safety and muscle memory to become more instinctive with our reactions.

Landsafe Equestrian is always on tour, so you can check out their upcoming dates — or schedule a clinic at your farm — here.

Celebrating 10 Years at Stable View: Training Incentive Announced in Prep for Aiken Opener

By on Jan 3, 2023 12:00 pm -

Photo by Christine Quinn Photography.

The winter portion of the 2023 season is kicking off soon, and in preparation for its Aiken Opener H.T. January 21-22, Stable View Farm is offering a new training incentive to those who compete in its schooling series this month.

2023 also marks the 10 year anniversary for the Aiken, SC venue, which hosts two 4*-S events each year along with a packed calendar of unrecognized events, recognized hunter, jumper, eventing and dressage competition.

Riders wishing to polish up their phases ahead of the Aiken Opener have the option to compete in three schooling shows: Schooling Jumpers on Wednesday, January 4, Schooling Dressage on Wednesday, January 11, and a Combined Test on Saturday, January 14. Riders entering both the Schooling Jumpers and Schooling Dressage shows will receive half off their Combined Test entry, making for a three-show package at an entry price of $100. You can view all prize lists and entry forms on the Stable View website here.

We’re looking forward to a full-slate season at Stable View. Follow along on their website and Instagram for the latest updates and event openings!

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: The Do’s and Don’ts of Working with ‘Pushy’ Horses

By on Dec 28, 2022 6:55 pm -

I used to have a horse who would be classified as “pushy”. It was partially my doing for being pretty lenient with cookie-giving (I’m a sucker, what can I say?), and it wouldn’t have been an issue if he wasn’t the type to want to escalate things when boundaries were mentioned.

Suffice it to say I wish I would have had access to the resources — even five years ago! — that are now readily available at my fingertips online.

Now, let me also put in a disclaimer here that not all training advice is good advice. One balancing factor that comes with the increased availability of information is knowing how to sift good information from not-so-good. Common sense and horse sense should govern well here, but it’s always good to do your research on who is teaching, what their credentials are, and what their results have been.

Noelle Floyd’s Equestrian Masterclass often shares shortened clips from their various curriculum on YouTube, and this one contains lots of useful pointers from Tik Maynard. Have a look and maybe pick up a few new clues!

Is your horse challenged by GI tract imbalances, diarrhea, and/or ulcers?

Neigh-Lox® Advanced provides a scientifically advanced blend of ingredients that work synergistically to maintain your horse’s digestive tract in peak condition by supporting both the gastrointestinal tissues and the beneficial bacteria that populate the gut. Maintaining a healthy digestive tract reduces the risk of colonic and gastric ulcers, colic, laminitis related to hindgut acidosis, and oxidative stress that damages digestive tract tissues themselves. Horses with a well-balanced GI tract have good appetites, absorb more nutrients from their diets, maintain a strong immune system, and stay healthier.

The horse that matters to you matters to us®. KPPusa.com

Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Dec 28, 2022 12:01 am -

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by FEI Eventing (@fei_eventing)

What’s been your favorite eventing story of the year? Each year, I try to pick a favorite, but inevitably one of two things happened: I can’t remember a damn thing — like, this season may as well have never happened — or I get stuck waffling between sentimental favorites. I think one of the best that sticks in my mind is this great one sniffed out by Shelby Allen at the FEI World Championships on Danish rider Hanne Wind Ramsgaard. [“If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It”]

Wednesday News & Reading

Time is running out to enter our Ultimate LRK3DE Giveaway! You and three friends could win travel funds for your trip to The Best Weekend All Year, general admission to each day plus premium cross country tailgating, and Dubarry gear — all you need to do is enter by December 31 for a shot at winning. [Fly Away to LRK3DE]

In most other major eventing nations, certification is required in order to become an instructor. In the U.S., certification is available through the recently-revamped Eventing Coaches Program (ECP — formerly known as the Instructor’s Certification Program). [Certification: An Important Choice]

Is your horse depressed? Just like us, our horses experience their own gamut of emotions — and yes, depression can indeed be one of them. Our friends at KPP have some tips for spotting and helping depression in horses. [Is Your Horse Depressed?]

Don’t forget to cast your votes for the USEF Equestrian of the Year Honors! Included in the field are FEI World Championships team rider Will Coleman along with Off the Record, nominated for International Horse of the Year. [Cast your votes by December 29]

FEI World Championships Ground Jury member and 5* dressage judge Peter Gray finds a whole new level of thrill in the judge’s box. He may have competed internationally in the sports of eventing and dressage, but the view from the box is one that can’t be replaced — and it’s this love of all this horses and sport that has led him down a path he wouldn’t trade in for anything. [Gray’s Found His Next Chapter in the Judge’s Box]

What’s gone into the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab’s rating of equestrian helmets? Don’t forget: this isn’t their first spin around the testing-out-the-melon-protector block. The Helmet Lab has made a name for itself for its research and ratings of helmets for all types of sports, from football to motorsports and, now, to equestrian. [Rating Helmet Safety]

Tack Facts with Sterling Essentials: Raise your hand if your New Year’s Resolution is to clean your tack more! [Then watch this video]

Sponsor Corner: Haygain sales will support World Horse Welfare during the month of September, with 2% of proceeds committed for sales through December 31. Shop for a good cause here.

Wednesday Video Break

Working on your own fitness this winter? Try these tips to solidify your jumping position, thanks to Coach Tony Sandoval:

Fly Away to the #BestWeekendAllYear: How to Win the Ultimate LRK3DE Getaway

By on Dec 27, 2022 9:00 am -

Kentucky is JUST around the corner (yes, it’s December, and yes, we already have our hotels booked and yes, we know we’re crazy – but we know you are too), and if you’re a diehard eventing fan like us you’ve already been making plans for the #BestWeekendAllYear.

Allow us to level up your plans! Beginning today, entries are now open for The Ultimate LRK3DE Giveaway, presented by Eventing Nation, Athletux, Ocala Horse Properties, and Dubarry of Ireland. If you’re planning to attend Kentucky next year (April 27-30) – keep reading!

For the 2023 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, we’re pleased to offer one winner and three friends

  1. Four (4) General Admission Tickets for each day of the event

  2. One (1) Land Rover Tailgating Premium Package (2 entries w/vehicle & 6 additional GA tickets for Saturday of the event – Tailgate area)

  3. $750 in travel funds via VISA gift card

  4. Dubarry Crew Jacket (1) and a $250 E-voucher for use on dubarry.com/us

  5. Package of Eventing Nation merchandise

You have several options to enter! Each entry will count on its own, so if you use all entry options, you’ll have up to 4 chances to win.

Option 1: Use this form to enter your email address. You will be signed up to receive emails from: Eventing Nation, Athletux, Ocala Horse Properties, and Dubarry, but you may unsubscribe at any time.

Option 2: Follow ALL of the following accounts on Instagram: @goeventing, @athletux, @ocalahorseproperties, @dubarry.usa, @kentuckythreedayevent

Option 3: Tag a friend in the comments on the contest announcement post on any of the following Instagram accounts: @goeventing, @athletux, @ocalahorseproperties, @dubarry.usa, @kentuckythreedayevent

Option 4: Share the Instagram post announcing this giveaway from any of the following accounts to your story (must be public to be viewable): @goeventing, @athletux, @ocalahorseproperties, @dubarry.usa, @kentuckythreedayevent

Entries are open from December 15, through Saturday, December 31. We will announce the winner during the week of January 2, 2023. You must be 18 or older (or have a parent/guardian enter on your behalf) to be eligible to win. This contest is open to anyone regardless of location.

Use this link to fill out the entry form if the form below does not function in your browser.

Christmas Day Video Break: He’s Baaaaack!

By on Dec 25, 2022 10:51 am -

It’s the moment I know we’ve ALL been waiting for: London 52’s first jump school after vacation!

If you’re new to this party, allow us to fill you in.

As most riders do, Badminton winner and Tokyo gold medalist for Britain Laura Collett gives her horses a solid vacation after major competitions. Generally, this means most of them come back into work right around the close of each year. London 52 is an annual attraction on this first-day-of-school event because of his aerial antics and pure enthusiasm for returning back to work.

Here he is! (Can’t see the embedded Instagram post below? Click here to watch it in the app)

ICYMI, here’s a look at “Dan’s” previous antics (Laura, we think you’re missing a serious cash grab not selling tickets to this, tbh):

Go Dan, and Go Eventing!

Sunday Links from SmartPak

By on Dec 25, 2022 9:00 am -

A very merry Christmas and a happy Hanukkah to all who are celebrating this weekend! We’re enjoying a light couple of weeks here at EN and hope you are also getting some downtime — and don’t forget to take care of those taking care of our horses this weekend, especially in the parts of the world hardest hit by winter.

Sunday Links

How does water temperature affect horses’ drinking habits?

William Fox-Pitt: Bringing Out Your Horse’s Best

The Top 9 USEA Instagram Posts of 2022

Everything You Never Knew About Sleigh Bells

Sunday Video:

Stuff riders say during gift giving times — I think we can ALL relate!

Jackie Potts Receives British Equestrian Medal of Honor

By on Dec 22, 2022 10:18 am -

Last week, British Equestrian honored leading equestrian figures for their services to the industry. Eight individuals were presented with the British Equestrian Medal of Honor by the Federation’s Chair, Malcolm Wharton CBE, and CEO, Jim Eyre. The presentation took place in the main arena at the London International Horse Show, presenting medals to:

Charlotte Fry (2021)
Gareth Hughes (2021)
Sophie Thomas (2021)
David Trott (2021)
Professor Eric Jenkinson (2022)
Dr. Chris Meadon (2022)
Jackie Potts (2022)
Charlotte Thornycroft (2022)

The British Equestrian Medal of Honor is awarded to those recognized as having completed acts of international endeavor in relation to equestrian sport, and for outstanding services to the Federation or its Member Bodies.

Jackie Potts, longtime head groom and manager-of-all-things for William Fox-Pitt, needs little introduction as one recipient of this prestigious award.

A familiar figure on the eventing circuit, Jackie has been the head groom at William Fox-Pitt’s yard for over thirty years. The epitome of a world-class groom, Jackie’s knowledge, skill and attention to detail are second-to-none and she is always ready to offer support to those who need it. She has five Olympic Games, five World Championships and eight European Championships on her CV, and too many three-day events to count. Jackie is a founding Director for the International Grooms Association and a longstanding ambassador for the British Grooms Association. Being a groom is, in her own words, ‘a way of life, not a job’.

Hear from Jackie after her award (can’t see the embedded video below? Click here to watch it on Facebook):

 

We caught up with super-groom Jackie Potts after she was presented with a British Equestrian Medal of Honour earlier today. Watch the video to hear some of Jackie’s highlights of working with Fox-Pitt Eventing for over 30 years and how she hope that receiving this award will inspire a new generation of grooms 🫶 👇

#LIHS2022

Posted by British Equestrian on Friday, December 16, 2022

You can read more about the recipients of the British Equestrian Medal of Honor here.

Will Coleman, Off the Record Represent Eventers in 2022 USEF Equestrian of the Year Awards

By on Dec 21, 2022 12:00 pm -

Off The Record’s crew. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Eventers, it’s time to rock the vote!

The USEF Horse of the year and Equestrian of the Year Awards are put to a popular vote each year to determine the winning athletes, pulling from a pool of finalists from multiple disciplines. Eventing doesn’t always make the cut in these awards, but this year FEI World Championships team member Will Coleman represents the insanity in the middle along with the Off the Record Syndicate’s Off the Record.

The International and National Equestrians of the Year will be announced at the 2022 Pegasus Awards Dinner on Thursday, January 12, and the International and National Horses of the Year will be announced at the 2022 SmartPak/USEF Horse of the Year Awards Dinner on Saturday, January 14, at the 2023 US Equestrian Annual Meeting in Lexington, Ky.

[View all nominees and vote]

Voting is open now through 11:59 p.m. ET on Dec. 29. Click here to vote now. Please note that you must be logged in to your USEF account to vote. After submitting your selections, you will receive an email asking you to confirm your vote. You must confirm your ballot in order for your votes to count!

Let’s take a look at the full field of nominees for International Equestrian of the Year:

Will Coleman and Off The Record. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Will Coleman
Ocala, FL
Eventing

2022 World Championship silver medalist Will Coleman is a notable athlete and competitor for U.S. eventing. His decorated 2022 hit its pinnacle with helping the U.S. Eventing Team qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics with an incredible effort at the World Championships in Pratoni del Vivaro, Italy, highlighted by a clutch clear show jumping round with medals on the line, but they don’t end there. Coleman’s consistency placed him within the top 10 as an individual in every CCI5*-L competition he entered this year, finishing seventh at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ with Dondante, seventh at the FEI World Eventing Championship in Pratoni del Vivaro with Off The Record, and sixth at the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill with Dondante.

Additionally, Coleman took home a win at the Carolina International CCI4*-S with Dondante, placed third at the Great Meadow International CCI4*-S with Off The Record, and was second at the Morven Park International CCI4*-L with Chin Tonic HS, as well as a pair of top 10 placings at CHIO Aachen on both Chin Tonic HS and Off The Record.

Coleman, who owns and operates Okonokos Farm in Ocala, Fla., a conditioning and training site utilized by U.S. Eventing, is living a “lifelong dream” that began when he was six years old in Charlottesville, Va., on a Shetland pony and continues today.

Kate Shoemaker, a member of the U.S. Para Dressage Team that won bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, enjoyed another banner year in 2022.

Adrienne Lyle and Salvino. Photo by Matt Turer / US Equestrian.

Adrienne Lyle
Wellington, FL
Dressage

Coming off a team silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games just last summer, U.S. dressage athlete Adrienne Lyle has not slowed down.

In August, Lyle posted an 83.704% in the Blue Hors FEI World Dressage Grand Prix Freestyle Championship at Herning 2022 on Salvino—the second-highest score of her career and good for sixth place amongst a strong international field. The combination was the only American team partnership to compete in the Grand Prix, Grand Prix Special, and Freestyle at the World Championships, where they also played a key role in qualifying the U.S. Dressage Team for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Ranked 11th in the FEI Dressage World Ranking at the time of her nomination, Lyle took home two national championships at the 2022 U.S. Dressage Festival of Champions, winning the Markel/USEF Young Horse Four-Year-Old Dressage National Championship with Fürst Dream and the Markel/USEF Young Horse Five-Year-Old Dressage National Championship with Valor, positioning herself for an exciting present and future with U.S. Dressage.

Kate Shoemaker. Photo by Taylor Pence / US Equestrian.

Kate Shoemaker
Wellington, FL
Para Dressage

She shone on the international stage, most notably at the ECCO FEI World Championships in Herning, Denmark, where she was the U.S. team’s highest-placing individual medalist. In Herning, riding her own mare Quiana, she scored a personal-best 80.275% to win the silver medal in the FEI Para Dressage Grade IV Freestyle. The pair also contributed the highest score toward the Adequan® U.S. Para Dressage Team’s team bronze effort, which qualified the U.S. for a team berth at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.

Riding Quiana and Solitaer 40 during 2022 season, she also earned a team silver and individual overall CPEDI3* championship in Doha, Qatar, as well as top individual CPEDI3* results in Wellington, Fla., and a team victory and individual reserve honors in Tryon, N.C., among other notable achievements.

Shoemaker’s contributions to para dressage in 2022 went beyond her own competition performances. Through her mentorship and coaching, and through training and lending horses, she has made a lasting impact on the sport. In 2022, she helped put together four horse-and-rider partnerships, including helping her Herning teammate Roxanne Trunnell secure the ride on Fortunato H2O. In October, she also coached a pair of up-and-coming riders at the Perrigo CPEDI3* at Tryon: overall winner Fiona Howard and junior rider Genevieve Rohner, who achieved a personal best score.

And the nominees for International Horses of Honor:

Will Coleman and Off the Record. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Off The Record
(VDL Arkansas x Drumagoland Bay, Ard Ohio)
2009 Irish Sport Horse gelding
Owner: Off The Record Syndicate

Off The Record, frequently called “Timmy,” began his international career with Olympian Will Coleman in 2015. Seven years into that partnership, the combination was as strong as ever in 2022. Off The Record and Coleman finished 12th at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ CCI5*-L and two months later placed sixth at CHIO Aachen as a member of the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team.

A top-three finish at the Great Meadow CCI4*-S set up Off The Record for three days of key results at the Pratoni del Vivaro 2022 FEI World Eventing Championship. After a 26.4 dressage score, Off The Record and Coleman were trailblazers for the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team on cross-country day, finishing just two seconds over time. On show jumping day with medals on the line, Off The Record and Coleman produced the only clear round for the team, managing the questions asked throughout the difficult track with poise, demonstrating the scopiness, rideability, and talent the 2009 Irish Sport Horse gelding is known for.

The pair finished as the highest-placed individual U.S. combination in Pratoni del Vivaro, taking seventh place overall and helping the U.S. to a silver medal—its first eventing team medal at a World Championship since 2002.

Orafina. Photo by Sportfot.

Orafina
(For Fashion x Corofina, Canturo)
2012 KPWN mare
Owner: Kent Farrington LLC

Orafina has been a member of Kent Farrington’s string for the past two years, developing through the levels to become a top international CSI5* horse. The pair started the 2022 season with several top placings in Wellington, Fla., at the Winter Equestrian Festival, including a win in the $75,000 Adequan® WEF Challenge CSI5* and a second-place finish that same week in the $406,000 Douglas Elliman Grand Prix CSI5*. They also captured a win in the $140,000 Bainbridge Companies Grand Prix CSI3* just a few weeks later. Farrington then traveled to Thunderbird as part of the NetJets U.S. Jumping Team where he and Orafina earned top honors in the $186,900 Longines Grand Prix CSIO5*.

With Orafina in top form, the pair secured several podium-topping performances at Spruce Meadows before continuing their Canadian tour success, notching another victory in the $215,000 RBC Grand Prix CSI5* in Ottawa to mark their ninth victory together in 2022. Farrington piloted Orafina to another international win in Tryon, taking the $139,000 Horseware Ireland Grand Prix CSI3* with the pair closing out their season in California, earning a final win in the $74,200 CWD Jump-Off Challenge CSI5* and a second-place finish in the $450,000 Marshall & Sterling Grand Prix CSI5*.

Quiana. Photo by Matt Turer / US Equestrian.

Quiana
(Quaterstern x Rubina, Rubinstern Noir)
2014 Rheinland mare
Owner: Kate Shoemaker

Quiana began her partnership with Paralympian Kate Shoemaker in January 2022, and the pair quickly became a winning combination. Quiana and Shoemaker won their first CPEDI3* together and helped the Adequan® U.S. Para Dressage Team earn the silver medal at CHI Al Shaqab in Doha, Qatar. They finished in the top three in the Grade IV classes at their next CPEDI3* in Randbøl, Denmark, including a personal-best 75.813% in the Individual Test.

The impressive results secured Quiana and Shoemaker a spot on the Adequan® U.S. Para Dressage Team at the ECCO FEI World Championships in Herning, Denmark. The duo helped the U.S. earn a team bronze medal and qualify for a team berth at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Quiana and Shoemaker closed out the World Championships by scoring a personal best 80.275% to win the silver medal in the FEI Para Dressage Grade IV Freestyle and being the U.S. team’s highest-placing individual medalists.

Following their World Championships success, Quiana and Shoemaker finished their remarkable 2022 season by sweeping the Grade IV classes at the CPEDI3* in Riesenbeck, Germany. With Quiana’s help, it was the first time that Shoemaker topped the podium at an international competition in Europe.

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Salvino
(Sandro Hit x Dynastie, Donnerhall)
2007 Hanoverian stallion
Owner: Betsy Juliano LLC

Currently ranked 11th in the FEI Dressage World rankings with Olympian Adrienne Lyle, Salvino closed 2022 as one half of the top-ranked U.S. Dressage combinations in the world. And for good reason.

Success for Salvino, also known as “Vinny,” started at the 2022 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival in February and March. At AGDF 7, he and Lyle placed first in the CDI5* Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special. Then, at AGDF 11, another first-place finish, this time in the CDI4* Grand Prix.

Salvino added to a long list of career accomplishments during August’s Herning 2022 FEI Dressage World Championship where, with Lyle, he was a part of the only The Dutta Corp. U.S. Dressage Team combination to compete in the Grand Prix, Grand Prix Special, and Freestyle in Denmark. In the Freestyle, Salvino posted the second-highest score of his career with an 83.704% that put him and Lyle sixth in the extremely competitive Blue Hors FEI World Dressage Grand Prix Freestyle Championship.

A 2007 Hanoverian stallion owned by Besty Juliano LLC, Salvino notoriously loves showing off for a crowd, and Lyle felt the excitement and energy in Denmark. The pair have successfully completed three championships together. Lyle says that she’s grateful and cherishes everyday she gets to spend with Vinny as the pair has formed an incredibly close partnership over the past seven years.

[Click here to cast your vote by Dec. 29!]

Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Dec 21, 2022 12:01 am -

Is there much better of a feeling than returning to the saddle after some time off? Our team here at EN is a mixed bag of current and former riders, and we love to cheer each other on as we wrangle with life, babies, jobs, and words about horses. EN’s Maggie Deatrick returned from a competition hiatus earlier this month with Cthulhu (or as he’s affectionately know, “Squid”), finishing 11th in her first Prelim since 2019. Welcome back, Maggie!

U.S Weekend Preview

Your only assignment this weekend is to enjoy the holiday break!

Wednesday News & Reading

Don’t forget to enter our Ultimate LRK3DE Giveaway! You and three friends could win tickets, premium tailgating for cross country, a travel voucher valued at $750, and Dubarry gear for the trip. Entries are open until 12/31, so don’t delay! [Fly Away to LRK3DE]

Part of competitive success is the ability to “get in the zone” — but this is, of course, much easier said than done. Daniel Stewart is back in his latest column with some thoughts on “mojo-mantras” and how they can encourage us to go into a flow state. Super interesting stuff. [Pressure Proof with Daniel Stewart]

Have provisions intended to protect racehorses from falling through the cracks failed? Is aftercare really at the top of the priority list for most stakeholders? Writing for Thoroughbred Daily News, Nicole Forbes makes the case that the system has, in fact, failed. “To be frank, it might be too late,” she writes. “I’m honestly not sure if we can act fast enough on an industry-wide solution to eliminate this crisis.” [Op/Ed: The System Has Failed]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Edinburgh has sought to identify whether or not dressage judges’ marks are indicative of “conflict behaviors” and “horse antagonistic responses”, Horse Sport reports. With more attention being paid to horse body language, this study and its results will provide useful information that can be used to improve judging. [Conflict Behaviors and Dressage Scoring]

Not all candy canes are created equal — and your horse doesn’t actually need all the sugary treats this holiday season. As knowledge of equine nutrition continues to expand, sugar content comes under higher scrutiny in terms of its effects on overall health. Should you let your horse indulge this winter? [Sugars and Peppermints: Not Safe Treats for All Horses]

Best of the Blogs: A Good Ride on Good Horses

Tack Facts with Sterling Essentials: Can you use Sterling Essentials on buffalo leather? Find out here.

Sponsor Corner: “Not all steam is created equal.” That comes early in the story of Haygain’s development of high-temperature hay steaming. This Business of Horses podcast host Amanda Watson elicited that knowledge nugget from Royal Agricultural University professor Meriel Moore-Colyer in a recent edition. [Read more + listen]

Wednesday Video Break

I love a good horse-y vlog, and this one’s been a favorite to watch!

Tuesday Video: All the Highlights from Maryland 5 Star

By on Dec 20, 2022 12:30 pm -

This year’s MARS Maryland 5 Star was one for the books, and if you’re anything like me you came home from the event and immediately tuned in to the replay coverage to catch up on any moments you might have missed in person (if you haven’t done this yet, or you’re just looking for something to do over the holiday break, USEF Network has all the on-demand your heart desires!)

I’m getting definite FOMO from this highlight reel, and I was there! If you missed out on this year’s event, you’ll definitely not want to miss it in 2023. Save the date for October 19-23, 2023!

Saturday Video: A 90% at London International

By on Dec 17, 2022 6:08 pm -

Charlotte Fry (GBR) riding Glamourdale – winners of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ 2022/23 – London Excel (GBR). Photo: ©FEI/Jon Stroud

The recently-crowned double world champions, 26-year-old Lottie Fry and the fabulous 11-year-old stallion Glamourdale (Lord Leatherdale – Thuja, by Negro), stormed to victory with a massive score of 90.995% at the fifth leg of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ 2022/2023 Western European League series on home ground at the London International Horse Show last night. You won’t want to miss the video!

Announcing the 2022 EN Blogger Contest Winner!

By on Dec 17, 2022 1:22 pm -

Only here at EN do Blogger Contests take six months. We could say it simply adds to the suspense, but the reality is: we owe you an apology! Our finalists have been patiently waiting to hear the results of the 2022 EN Blogger Contest, and we are pleased to — at very long last — announce the winners who will be joining the team in 2023!

We received an overwhelming number of initial entries as well as reader votes on the eventual finalist pieces. While we’ve identified our official winner and runners-up, who will each receive cash prizes, we have also extended offers to continue writing for EN to two other finalists.

Without further ado, your Blogger Contest results are:

Winner: Diana Gilbertson

Photo courtesy of Diana Gilbertson.

Diana, a UK resident and adventure junkie, has displayed the highest level of enthusiasm throughout the entire Blogger Contest process, despite our clunky delays in wrapping this contest up. Her writing exudes a passion for the sport and we’re thrilled to give her a crack at continuing on this path she’s found herself on. Diana now joins Tilly Berendt (winner: 2017) as our second winner from the UK. Welcome to the team, Diana!

Runner-up: Allie Heninger

Photo courtesy of Allie Heninger.

Also known as the Autoimmune Equestrian on social media, Allie is an amateur rider who brought her deep perspectives to her writing and whose passion for horses and perseverence is evident in everything she does. We look forward to adding her viewpoint to our roster of writers from all types of backgrounds!

Runner-up: Sydney Steverson

Photo courtesy of Sydney Steverson.

Sydney had us absolutely rolling when she sent in her first entry (which we’ll share here on EN soon) depicting the conversations we have with our horses on cross country. Her second entry, The Terror and Hope of Cross Country Day, accurately sums up the eventing experience for approximately 99% of us. Sydney hails from the midwest and is also an avid TikToker (is that the right term? I’m old) with a sense of humor and a perspective that lends itself well to inspiring as well as entertaining. We can’t wait to see what else Sydney has up her sleeve — welcome to the team!

Other writers who have been extended offers to continue writing for EN are: Cheg Darlington and Cassidy Oeltjen.

Congratulations to all of you, and thank you to all who submitted pieces for this year’s Blogger Contest. If this wasn’t your year, we encourage you to re-submit during our next contest — you never know!

Go Eventing.

Friday Video: 5 Steps to Introducing Spooky Jumps

By on Dec 16, 2022 6:08 pm -

Slow and steady always wins the race when it comes to introducing new or “scary” concepts to our horses. In partnership with Equestrian Masterclass, Tik Maynard has broken down the steps horses go through when encountering something frightening:

⭐️ Denial (your horse might refuse to look at the jump or acknowledge it’s there)

⭐️ Fear (your horse wants to move backwards or run away from it)

⭐️ Curiosity (your horse will look at the object, sniff it, or fee it)

⭐️ Play (Touching or sniffing with their nose or touching with their legs)

⭐️ Acceptance (Understanding what the object is and feeling familiar around it)

Now, how to translate this into working with spooky jumps? Let’s take a dive in with these short videos from Noelle Floyd:

Preview the 2023 FEI Eventing Nations Cup Calendar

By on Dec 16, 2022 12:45 pm -

Jonelle Price’s Grappa Nera. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

A new year brings a new international calendar for eventing, and though there are no major worldwide championships on the docket it’s still stacking up to be an action-packed year of sport. Highlights for 2023 include the FEI European Eventing Championships, to be held at Haras du Pin in August (and also to be designed by incoming Paris Olympic cross country designer Pierre le Goupil), as well as the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile in late October (also designed by Pierre le Goupil). Among the most notable revisions to the calendar is the change to the UK’s Nations Cup leg, which will now be hosted at Chatsworth the week after Badminton, rather than the now defunct Houghton International Horse Trials later in the month.

The FEI Eventing Nations Cup is a highlight of the international calendar, and while this year will see no legs hosted in North America — a usual challenge given the distance required to travel and the resulting difficulty of forming enough teams — a total of eight stops will make up the schedule.

The 2023 FEI Eventing Nations Cup schedule is as follows:

CCIO4*-NC-S Montelibretti (ITA) – March 9-12, 2023
CCIO4*-NC-S Chatsworth (GBR) – May 13-14, 2023
CCIO4*-NC-S Millstreet (IRL) – June 1-6, 2023
CCIO4*-NC-S Strzegom (POL) – June 21-25, 2023
CCIO4*-NC-S Haras de Jardy (FRA) – July 13-16, 2023
CCIO4*-NC-S Avenches (SUI) – July 20-23, 2023
CCIO4*-NC-S Arville (BEL) – August 17-20, 2023
CCIO4*-NC-L Boekelo (NED) – October 5-10, 2023

Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Dec 14, 2022 12:01 am -

I somehow missed out on National Day of the Horse yesterday like a dummy, so I’ll just share one of my favorite posts from yesterday here to make up for it. I’ve really enjoyed following the McFall family adventures as they tackle the sport with several of their own homebreds. This family is one that does it all, from breeding sport horses to competing at the upper levels to providing coaching to riders in northern California — they’re fun to follow!

U.S. Weekend Preview

We have arrived at that weird time of year in which there aren’t many events to be found. Enjoy a weekend off, friends!

Wednesday News & Reading

One of the greatest services we can do for our horses is to seek to understand them. In his new book, For the Love of the Horse, Mark Rashid muses on the concept of understanding horse behavior and how these clues can give us a broader picture of how our partner is feeling. [Read more here]

After the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab released its first helmet rankings, opinions swirled. One voice added to the mix is that of the group behind the MIPS technology that has become commonplace in our helmets. They’ve issued a statement addressing the results of the study, and you can read more about it here.

If you’re a fan of the Equestrian Voices podcast, you can show your support by voting for it as the best Sports podcast in this year’s 1st Annual Listener’s Choice Signal Awards. [Cast your vote]

We can all relate to the…er…fun…that is a winter riding lesson. This play-by-play from The Plaid Horse had me rolling (and feeling extremely called out, if I’m being honest…).

Several rule changes were approved or moved forward to the USEF for final consideration at last weekend’s USEA Annual Meeting & Convention in Savannah, GA. More information on the pending rule changes will be released in the coming days, but you can read a summary of the final USEA Board of Governors meeting here.

I’m getting pretty pumped for the London International Horse Show, which kicks off in earnest this week and always signals the true beginning of holiday season, in my opinion. Our friends at Horse & Country will carry the live stream from this year’s competition, and you can view the schedule, subscribe, or buy a one-time pass to watch the action here.

Tack Facts with Sterling Essentials: I think this review from Anna S. of Sterling Essentials (and honestly, what the brand teaches in terms of how to actually care for tack) puts how we feel perfectly: “I have to say, Sterling Essentials will forever change the way I care for my saddles. I was taught to use oils to care and condition my tack, which I never tried anything else because that’s how I was taught! When I tried this… My mind was blown! The cleaner pulled off all the oils that were just sitting on the top of my saddles. Then when I used the conditioner… It truly works itself into the leather to make it soft and restore it and no residue remains. I’m so impressed with this that I will never use anything else on my tack. Thank you for creating an amazing product!”

Sponsor Corner: Don’t forget to snag your holiday deal from Haygain!

Wednesday Video Break

K, I want to see the full camera footage from this — talk about cross country with even more adrenaline, if that was even possible!

12 Days of Giveaways, Day 12: Win a Private Lesson with Liz Halliday-Sharp

By on Dec 12, 2022 9:00 am -

We’re celebrating the final month of 2022 with some free stuff — everyone’s favorite! This year, we’ve partnered with a whole slew of brands for these 12 (or more!) giveaways. There will be plenty you won’t want to miss out on, so remember to check back on Eventing Nation (and also, there are giveaways happening daily over on Horse Nation!) each day through December 12.

It’s the grand finale of our 12 Days of Giveaways, and we’ve saved a very special prize for last! We’ve teamed up with Ocala Horse Properties and Liz Halliday-Sharp to give away a private lesson with Liz at either her Lexington or Ocala home base!

One lucky winner will win the opportunity to take their horse to HS Eventing’s beautiful Ocala, FL or Lexington, KY facility at a mutually agreed upon date for a private lesson with Liz. With the most international wins in the world for three years running, Liz is one of the best riders to learn from. For those unable to transport their horse to Liz in person, a video lesson may also be coordinated.

Congratulations to Leslie M. — you’re our winner!

12 Days of Giveaways, Day 11: Win a Set of Horseware Ice-Vibe Boots

By on Dec 11, 2022 9:00 am -

It’s time to kick off the final month of 2022 with some free stuff — everyone’s favorite! This year, we’ve partnered with a whole slew of brands for these 12 (or more!) giveaways. There will be plenty you won’t want to miss out on, so remember to check back on Eventing Nation (and also, there are giveaways happening daily over on Horse Nation!) each day through December 12.

Today (December 11), we’re teaming up with Horseware to give away a pair of always-popular Ice Vibe® Boots! Ice-Vibe® therapeutic horse boots combine the effects of cooling and massage therapy to reduce soreness and swelling, help boost circulation and stimulate healing.

Congratulations to Emma H. from MD — you’re our winner!

12 Days of Giveaways, Day 10: Win a Pair of Amerigo Aluminum Stirrup Irons from World Equestrian Brands

By on Dec 10, 2022 11:00 am -

It’s time to kick off the final month of 2022 with some free stuff — everyone’s favorite! This year, we’ve partnered with a whole slew of brands for these 12 (or more!) giveaways. There will be plenty you won’t want to miss out on, so remember to check back on Eventing Nation (and also, there are giveaways happening daily over on Horse Nation!) each day through December 12.

Today (December 10), we’re teaming up with World Equestrian Brands to give away a pair of Amerigo Aluminum Stirrups!
Amerigo Stirrup Irons are made from aluminum and the special design of the surface holes creates a self-cleaning tread, as well as excellent grip for all types of boots. Furthermore, the 30 degree inclination of the hole through which the stirrup leathers are threaded allows the stirrups themselves to be constantly in the correct position therefore enhancing the grip further on the riders boots. The new Amerigo stirrup iron combines hi-tech qualities and comfort, in keeping with Amerigo’s philosophy aimed at innovation and attention to detail for both horse and rider.

Congratulations to Sarah B. from CA — you’re our winner!

12 Days of Giveaways, Day 10: Win a Haygain Forager Slow Feeder

By on Dec 10, 2022 9:00 am -

It’s time to kick off the final month of 2022 with some free stuff — everyone’s favorite! This year, we’ve partnered with a whole slew of brands for these 12 (or more!) giveaways. There will be plenty you won’t want to miss out on, so remember to check back on Eventing Nation (and also, there are giveaways happening daily over on Horse Nation!) each day through December 12.

Today (December 10), we’re teaming up with Haygain to give away a Haygain Forager Slow Feeder! As grazing animals, horses have digestive systems that are designed to process forage in small quantities over several hours. The Forager Slow Feeder facilitates this in modern horse management by extending mealtimes without frustrating your horse. More time eating equals less time for boredom behaviors and food scarcity stress, especially for horses on restricted diets.
Use this form to enter and check back here tomorrow (12/11) for the winner announcement! Winners will also be contacted via email.
Please note: This giveaway is shared between EN and HN, and one winner will be drawn from the total pool of entries.

Congratulations to Jaclyn P. — you’re our winner!

Celebrating the 2022 USEA Year End Award and Grant Winners

By on Dec 9, 2022 5:00 pm -

The 2022 recipients of the Rebecca Broussard Charitable Foundation Developing Rider Grants. From left to right: Sarah Broussard, Chris Talley, James Alliston, Rebecca Brown, Kaylawna Smith-Cook, Valerie Pride, Jerome and Beth Broussard. USEA/Meagan DeLisle photo.

The drinks were flowing and the mid-afternoon Friday party at the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention was in full swing today at the Year End Awards Luncheon, hosted by Max Corcoran and Jim Wolf. This year’s USEA Annual Meeting is hosted in the positively lovely Savannah, GA, and while I’ll have to book another trip to see the famous green river for St. Patrick’s Day, I’m not sure there could be a better spot to cap off the year in eventing land.

The Year End Awards Luncheon is a festive event, with nearly 30 recipients given USEA Foundation Awards and the end of year leaders in each division and category honored. Development grants for horses, riders, and event support were also given, which means we’ve got a whole list of winners to celebrate. Let’s jump right in — and stay tuned for more stories on some of these award recipients in the coming weeks.

First up, please join us in congratulating the USEA Leaderboard winners from 2022:

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg represent the U.S. at FEI World Championships. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Overall
World Equestrian Brands Rider of the Year: Boyd Martin (PA)
Bates USEA Lady Rider of the Year: Tamie Smith (CA)
RevitaVet USEA Young Rider of the Year: Cassie Sanger (CT)
Capital Square USEA Adult Amateur of the Year: Kevin Keane (SC)
Standlee Premium Western Forage Horse of the Year: Dondante/Four Star Eventing Group (FL), Team Rebecca, LLC (MT)
Bates USEA Mare of the Year: Lady Chatterley/Lesley Grant-Law (FL), Stephen Brown (FL)
SmartPak USEA Stallion of the Year: Geluk HVF/Bethany Hutchins-Kristen (FL)
Pony of the Year: Coud’Poker/Donna Miller (GA)

Beginner Novice
Junior Rider: Madison Zgutowicz (GA)
Young Adult Rider: Maya Chinana (DE)
Intercollegiate: Gillian Stover (KY)
Adult Rider: Kristen Mumme (FL)
Master Rider: Carla Jimmerson (GA)
Adult Amateur Rider: Lindsay Parsley (KY)
Master Amateur Rider: Carla Jimmerson (GA)
Horse: Delilah’s Boy/Hedgerow Farm (MD)

Novice
Junior Rider: Quidley Kellermann (TX)
Young Adult Rider: Jenna Alland (TX)
Intercollegiate: Emilia Sweeny (CT)
Adult Rider: Kyla Tovar (IL)
Master Rider: Madeline Bletzacker (OH)
Adult Amateur Rider: Kyla Tovar (IL)
Master Amateur Rider: Madeline Bletzacker (OH)
Horse: Paddington/Alyssa Cairo (MI)

Katie Malensek and Landjaeger. Photo by Lisa Madren.

Training
Junior Rider: Ella Eisenbarth (WA)
Young Adult Rider: Sarah Ross (NV)
Intercollegiate: Cora Severs (KY)
Adult Rider: Ashley Kehoe (VA)
Master Rider: Katie Malensek (FL)
Adult Amateur Rider: Amber Pearson (CA)
Master Amateur Rider: Kirsten Hiles (MN)
Horse: Daktaris/Ashley Kehoe Eventing (VA)

Modified
Junior Rider: Chloe Paddack (FL)
Young Adult Rider: Kalli Core (TX)
Intercollegiate: Dorothy Dreelin (GA)
Adult Rider: Megan Tardiff (ME)
Master Rider: Brooke Kahl (SC)
Adult Amateur Rider: Abby Foltz (VA)
Master Amateur Rider: Brooke Kahl (SC)
Horse: Nata Montada SCF/Brooke Kahl (SC)

Eileen Galoostian and Ardeo Living The Dream. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Preliminary
Junior Rider: Cassie Sanger (CT)
Young Adult Rider: Kalli Core (TX)
Intercollegiate: Kiersten Miller (MI)
Adult Rider: Caroline Martin (PA)
Master Rider: Liz Halliday-Sharp (FL)
Adult Amateur Rider: Marley Stone Bourke (VA)
Master Amateur Rider: Eileen Galoostian (UT)

Will Coleman and Dondante. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Advanced
Adult Rider: Boyd Martin (PA)
Intercollegiate: Cosby Green (KY)
Adult Amateur Rider: Katie Lichten (MA)
Master Amateur Rider: Kevin Keane (SC)
Horse: Dondante/Four Star Eventing Group (FL), Team Rebecca, LLC (MT)

Next up were the grants given to fund development of horses and riders for future championship competition:

Caroline Martin receives the Connaught Grant in honor of Bruce O. Duchossois. Photo by Red Bay Stock.

Connaught Grant: Caroline Martin and HSH Blake
The Connaught Grant, in honor of the late R. Bruce Duchossois, will give $25,000 to a CCI* or CCI2* horse in the U.S. that is seen as a potential candidate to represent Team USA on an international level. The Grant, which helps offset the cost of competitions, travel in relationship to competitions, training and horse care, is the brainchild of Phillip and Evie Dutton and longtime supporter Caroline Moran.

Wilton Fair Fund: Hallie Coon
The Wilton Fair Fund allows up to $100,000 in grants to be given each year for a variety of educational opportunities for riders ages 29 and under who have not yet ridden on a senior team.

Essex Horse Trials Grant: Cornelia Dorr
The Essex Horse Trials Grant is available to a developing rider aged 25 and under who is competing successfully at CCI4*-S and above and who is working towards representing the U.S. in international team competition. The grant is intended to assist the recipient develop the essential horsemanship skills required for a successful transition from the Young Rider ranks to the Senior Rider ranks. The grant may be used for expenses related to equestrian education, coaching, training, and competing.

Haller Educational Scholarships: Heather Gillette and Ashley Johnson
The USEA has established two educational scholarships in memory of the late Roger Haller and his wife Ann Haller. Designed to provide financial assistance to those licensed officials who are working towards promotion to the “R” license, the “S” license, or the FEI licenses. The Scholarship may be used to offset the costs involved in gaining the necessary education and practical experience required to attain promotion. The sport is in urgent need of well-trained and committed officials who can serve at the highest international levels of the sport.

Seema Sonad Junior Rider Grant: Julia Crandon
The Seema Sonnad Junior Rider Grant is for riders 14-18 years of age who are competing successfully at the Preliminary/two-star level and who are working towards representing his or her Area at the NAYC CCI3*-S team competition in the following year. The grant is intended to assist the recipient in developing the essential horsemanship skills required for a successful transition from the Junior Rider ranks to the Young Rider CCI3*-S level. The grant may be used for expenses related to equestrian education, coaching, training, and competing.

Peter Gray receives the inaugural Packy Prize in honor of Packy McGaughan. Photo by Red Bay Stock.

Mike Huber Award: John Bourgoin
Donated by friends of Mike Huber, this prize is awarded annually to any NAYC coach, chef d’equipe, or team support person who best exemplifies Huber’s enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and dedication to the youth of the sport. This special trophy was earned for the first time at the 2016 NAYC. Each winner will take home their own trophy to keep as well as have their name engraved on a plaque for a perpetual trophy.

Packy Prize: Peter Gray
An award in Packy McGaughan’s honor was established through the USEA Foundation. That award will include a beautiful bronze trophy and award recipients will be recognized at the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention. 2022 is the first year this award is given.

Tremaine Cooper Cross Country Design: Derek di Grazia, John Michael Durr, Jeff Kibbe, Carsten Meyer, David O’Connor, Beth Perkins, Morgan Rowsell, John Williams
The Tremaine Cooper Fund for Cross-Country Design will be awarded annually to support the attendance of FEI Level 2 or higher course designers who are U.S. citizens at FEI Eventing Continuing Education Seminars/Clinics that are held overseas (i.e. outside of North America).

Broussard Charitable Foundation Trust Going Forward Grants: Janice Binkley, Rebecca Caulfield, Allison Eastman Lawler, Colleen Rutledge, Mallory Stiver
This educational opportunity provided the possibility to transforming members’ lives, careers, and horsemanship, along with enriching the sport of eventing. The Broussard Charitable Foundation Trust generously donated a one-time gift of $25,000 to the USEA Foundation for the Going Forward USEA Members Grant. The Grants were intended as a one-time opportunity and were offered only in 2020. However, the reception they received and the success achieved by the grant recipients inspired the Broussard family, through their Charitable Foundation Trust, to offer them each year for the next three years.

Next up were the Event Riders of North America (ERA of NA) Awards:

Above & Beyond Event Personnel Award: Jane and Tim Murray
This award is to be presented to an individual employed in a supporting career such as an event organizer, official, secretary, or other staff members who throughout the year went “above and beyond” their duties.

Amateur Impact Award: Stephanie Tassos-Reimers
This award is to be presented to an Adult Amateur that embodies a dedication to the sport of eventing, outstanding sportsmanship, and has made a direct impact on eventing in North America.

As You Like It Owner’s Award: Nancy Winter
The award is to be presented to an outstanding owner who has had a large influence on a rider’s career. Additionally, nominees will also be recognized for having made an exceptional contribution to the sport of eventing.

Liz Cochran Memorial Groom’s Award: Hailey Burlock and Erin Jarboe (#supergrooms to Will Coleman Equestrian)
This award recognizes an outstanding groom who has had a large influence on their rider’s career and the health and well-being of the horses under their care.

Last but most certainly not least came the USEA Appreciation Awards:

Vintage Cup: John Meriweather (OR), Sally Holman (IN), Suz Roehl (CA)
The Vintage Cup is awarded to members 60 years of age and over who are competing at any level in recognized USEA competitions and who show good sportsmanship.

Ironmaster Trophy: Sandra McDonald (SC)
The Ironmaster Trophy is presented to the individual that exemplifies fortitude and courage. Open to anyone associated with the sport: volunteer, spectator, official, trainer, competitor, groom, or grounds-keeper.

Cornerstone Instructors Award: Natalie Hollis, Sue Berrill
The Cornerstone Instructors Award honors the lower level instructor who has inspired riders in the sport of eventing with their encouragement and long-term dedication teaching basic horsemanship skills.

Eventing Coaches Program Sue Hershey Award: Christian Eagles
The Sue Hershey Award honors an ICP certified instructor who exemplifies the values, commitment, and character of the ICP program and who has inspired students in the sport of eventing, with their instruction, encouragement, and long-term dedication to teaching correct horsemanship and stable management skills. Sue Hershey dedicated over 20 years to the development and continued progression of the Instructors’ Certification Program.

Posthole Digger Award: Tyson Rementer
The Posthole Digger Award is presented to a builder who has exhibited exceptional ability and dedication to the sport through their work.

Neil Ayers Course Designers’ Award: Derek di Grazia
The Neil Ayer Course Designers’ Award is presented to a cross-country course designer in recognition of their innovation and vision.

Wofford Cup: Jo Whitehouse
The Wofford Cup is presented by Jim Wofford to an individual that has made an outstanding contribution to the sport.

I’m always keen to talk to some of these award recipients to find out how they feel about this recognition, so stay tuned for more stories yet to come!

For more on this year’s USEA Annual Meeting and Convention, click here.

12 Days of Giveaways, Day 9: Win a Care Bundle from Sterling Essentials

By on Dec 9, 2022 11:00 am -

It’s time to kick off the final month of 2022 with some free stuff — everyone’s favorite! This year, we’ve partnered with a whole slew of brands for these 12 (or more!) giveaways. There will be plenty you won’t want to miss out on, so remember to check back on Eventing Nation (and also, there are giveaways happening daily over on Horse Nation!) each day through December 12.

Today (December 9), we’re teaming up with Sterling Essentials to give away a bundle full of goodies for both horse and rider, including:
  • Leather Cleaner (16 fl oz. – choice of scent: Lavender, Citrus, Eucalyptus)
  • Leather Conditioner (8 oz. – choice of scent: Lavender, Citrus, Eucalyptus)
  • Breathing and Affirmations for a More Calm and Confident Ride – A Guided Meditation for the Nervous Rider

[Read our review of Sterling Essentials here]

Congratulations to Casey L. from MA! You’re our winner!