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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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Dream It, Do It: Julie Wolfert Nails Her First CCI4*-L Win at Morven Park with SSH Playboy

By on Oct 13, 2024 6:52 pm -

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Julie Wolfert may have won her first 4*-L at Morven Park this weekend with Team Pivot’s SSH Playboy (Cit Cat – Stomeyford Black Pearl), but the pathway she’s taken to this point in her career has been far from a straightforward one. A few years ago, Julie was questioning her entire career as an upper-level rider.

Some may recognize Julie’s name, as she’s certainly been on the radar in the past. First it was with her off-track Thoroughbred, Buenos Aires, who’s success in the sport earned her a spot on the USEF Developing Rider list in 2014. Their journey was cut short, however, after “Aires” succumbed to a tragic bout of cellulitis later on that year. Next came Djabouti, a dressage-bred Dutch horse who became her next eventing partner. Julie wasn’t quite able to make the moves up that she had hoped with that horse and eventually sold him on to a non-eventing home. She enjoyed a brief partnership with another off-track Thoroughbred in Iowa Lot of Money, but he also wasn’t meant to be her top Advanced horse.

By the time COVID struck, Julie was feeling the weight of disappointment. She’s also a rider who doesn’t live in a hub of eventing, hailing from Bucyrus, KS, where she bases out of her own Chaps Equestrian Center and runs one of the largest eventing training programs in Area IV, coaching students from those just starting out to those competing at the upper FEI levels. Maintaining her own career — with only one horse going at upper levels at a time, to boot — meant logging hundreds of hours in her truck each season, traversing the country to get to the events she needed.

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Sally Spickard.

It takes much grit to have a career in this sport, and I dare say even more if you A) don’t have a string of horses and B) live far from most upper level events.

So when Renee Senter and Sheri Gurske, both parents of students of Julie’s, saw her struggling, they intervened.

“If you were to say Julie were a trainer or a friend first, I would definitely say a friend first,” Sheri said to me a couple of years ago. “She has become a part of our family. If I had to choose a relationship, if I could only choose one, I would choose that family friend relationship. We just love her. It was so hard to see her struggling and Renee and I and our husbands were in a position to say, ‘you know what? We can do this.’ And we don’t need anything back other than going to all these places. We wanted to launch her.”

Thus, Team Pivot was formed, and the women first looked at a few horses stateside before traveling to Ireland and subsequently trialing some 40 horses before finding SSH Playboy, a nearly black Irish gelding who’d been taken to the 3* level by Irish rider Camilla Speirs.

Despite his obvious talent for the sport, though, “Jaego” has certainly had his own share of growing pains as he’s come up the levels. He can be quite hot, bucking Julie off several times and injuring her enough to make her miss the rest of a season. In 2023, he bucked her off in show jumping warm-up at Carolina, relegating her to stall rest for the remainder of a year that was intended to be their breakout year at the 4* level.

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Sally Spickard.

She watched Morven Park on the live stream from her couch last fall, shedding tears and wondering if she would ever get her own shot to compete here.

“Every day,” Julie said when we asked her if there was a point in time when she thought about throwing in the towel or questioned her career. “I would say, ‘Why am I doing this?’ It is a struggle. And just like everybody else for sure has their struggles and ups and downs with horses, but I just feel like a little bit in the Midwest we have our own set of obstacles.”

So the victory comes with much sentimental attachment and a huge personal victory for Julie, who’s primarily goal for the weekend was simply to have a confidence-boosting run after experiencing some difficulties over the summer at her competitions with SSH Playboy.

A win was certainly not on her radar, but getting in a solid preparation as she eyes her 5* debut, potentially at Kentucky next year, was.

“I needed this weekend because I had done two four-longs, but the last one was sketchy for me,” she said. “We had a stop [at Rebecca Farm in July]. And I’m thinking, ‘just because you’re qualified [for a five-star] doesn’t mean you’re ready to go. So after this week, and I was like, my horse is a baller, he’s ready.”

“It’s just partnership I have this horse now,” Julie reflected. “The other horses, I might have had one or two seasons barely. Then you have to go back to Beginner Novice for some reason. So the fact that I’ve been at this level now for almost two years, it’s like, I’m back at it again. It is so hard if you do not have multiple horses at this level. If you only have one, it is so hard to stay sharp because I get one chance — a lot of others have multiple, or even horses going at two-star or three-star. I literally just have this one horse.”

“I wouldn’t have this horse if I didn’t have Team Pivot behind me, Renee and Sheri,” Julie said emotionally. “Because they saw me struggle and they were like, ‘Hey, you’re a great rider, and we want to help you out.’ I would still be doing, literally, Beginner Novice with an off-track Thoroughbred right now.”

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Julie’s double clear show jumping today around Chris Barnard’s 4*-L track in the big Grand Prix arena at Morven Park officially puts her back on the map, and despite her expressing to us yesterday that she felt embarrassed to ask for any help from her fellow pros because she feared no one knew who she was, I don’t think she’ll need to worry about that anymore. She also got some help this weekend from Jan Byyny, and she previously worked for and rode with Emily Mastervich Beshear when she was younger.

Has she ever considered relocating? Julie says no.

“I stay in Kansas because I love my family and I grew up there, but also, there is a very big need for event trainers in the Midwest, in Kansas, and I feel like if I leave, then there’s nobody. I help run a recognized horse trial that is very much in need of help, and we’re all volunteers in a nonprofit. And I just love my students, and I want them to understand that if they want to come out here and do this, they can. I’ll go to places with them, and I’ll drive across the country with them. That just because we live in the Midwest doesn’t mean we can’t do it.”

Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Lucienne Bellisimo and Horse Scout Eventing’s Dyri (Diarado – La Calera, by King Milford xx) also amassed a banner weekend, adding no penalties today and cementing second place but even more significantly making a big step up in the 12-year-old Holsteiner gelding’s career. Now, Lucienne says, she feels the horse is getting closer to being ready to step up to the 5* level, most likely also at Kentucky in 2025.

As I wrote yesterday, the production of any event horse is an exercise in patience and a sense of humor, and this is certainly the case with Dyri, who’s campaigned at Advanced and 4* for two years and has taken some time to get to the point where he can go fast on cross country and maintain his confidence.

“He’s so sensitive. He deserves the patience,” Lucienne expressed. “But I think he’s ready now, because he helped me as well yesterday [on cross country] a couple of times. He knows his job, and we’re just going to go slow around his first five-star and we’ll see what he wants to do.”

Allison Springer and No May Moon. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Allison Springer got a nice bonus surprise today in addition to finishing on the podium with Nancy Winter’s Bromont 4*-L winner No May Moon (Catherston Dazzler – Ebony Moon, by Mystic Replica). With this placing, Allison and “Maizie” took home the top prize for the new MARS Equestrian American Bred Talent Trophy, presented to the top-scoring pairs across the 4*-L and 4*-S that featured a U.S.-bred horse, with $10,000 awarded to the winner and $5,000 awarded to the runner-up, in this case 4*-S winners Emily Beshear and Rio de Janeiro.

“Nancy Winter has a huge equestrian history in this country. Her family helped start the US Equestrian Team, and she’s just an amazing woman,” Allison said. “This award was not on my radar, so that was a really nice surprise. And it was super fun today, because Maizey’s full brother, Crystal Crescent Moon won the Preliminary. Obviously, I buy horses from Europe too, but we can make them here. [The breeding is] not as generational in our country, but there are some good horses. So I’m thrilled for Nancy. It’s just, I know this is a huge dream come true for her, seeing her horses. She’s always been supportive of me and other horses, but it brings her so much joy to see her own go through the levels.”

Allison Springer and No May Moon. Photo by Sally Spickard.

No May Moon is another horse that could see a 5* move up soon, but Allison says she’ll make that call later on and after consulting with Phillip Dutton, who’s been helping her with her horses. For her, it’s more about ensuring her horses have the full confidence to step up without feeling impressed. Two full seasons at the 3* level did this for this mare moving up to Advanced, and so another full or half season at this level could yet be in the cards.

“When I moved her up to Advanced, she actually didn’t feel green. She felt like she knew the job. So I think that’s really important when I asked her for that next step up. Making sure you’re picking the right place and right time. But I mean, she gave me such a good feel yesterday, and she recovered so well. I don’t know what the best next best move is, but she definitely has a five-star in her. It’s just the timing and when it’s right, so she has a very well-deserved vacation here and then we’ll regroup.”

Arden Wildasin and Sunday Times. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Other notables from the 4*-L include a fourth-place finish for Arden Wildasin and Sunday Times, who moved up from 15th thanks to one of the few double clears on cross country and another double clear in show jumping today. Arden has also gone the route of Bromont and Morven Park in anticipation of a 5* debut at Kentucky in the spring, and this result cements her preparation is paying off. She said she’ll work on her dressage over the off-season and aim for the big Kentucky in the new season.

Matt Brown and Alderwood. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Matt Brown also piloted Shelley Onderdonk’s Alderwood to a move-up fifth place finish after starting the weekend in 12th and also going double clear on cross country. One rail in show jumping dropped them to fourth, but what a strong finish for Matt, who we’re so pleased to see competing at this level once again.

Emily Beshear Wins First US Equestrian Open Leg in CCI4*-S

Emily Beshear and Rio de Janeiro take home second place for the MARS Equestrian American Bred Talent Trophy. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The lead of the first US Equestrian Open leg in the CCI4*-S changed hands after each phase this weekend. After overnight leaders Hannah Sue Hollberg and Business Ben withdrew due to some soreness after cross country, the win was up for grabs and Ema Klugman with RF Redfern was in first place.

One rail lowered for Ema meant that Emily Mastervich Beshear, who had come into today in second and breathing down Ema’s neck, and Rio de Janeiro‘s (River Dancer – Vanilla Ice) clear round would elevate them to the victory spot by a razor-thin margin of just .1 penalty points.

“Rio” is a horse that’s come to the upper levels later in life at age 15, but he’s showed much agreeability for the upper levels after starting out with one of Emily’s students and later coming to her and her son, Nicholas, to campaign.

“The goal all year was to just take it one event at a time and see if he liked playing the game at this level,” Emily said. “And he loved the cross country yesterday. I think he started off a little bit surprised by some of the efforts, but he finished like a rock star. So, you know, this [win] is just icing on the cake.”

“To me, he’s an American fairy tale,” Emily continued. “As far as event horses go. The family that bred him is in Michigan, and they run some of the only horse trials up there now. Their daughter produced him and rode him in the Young Rider ranks and I coached her there. When she went off to college and decided to stop riding, I was able to purchase him, and they still follow him.”

Emily’s not completely sure of what she’ll do next year with the Holsteiner/Thoroughbred gelding, noting that because of his age she’s not sure a 5* is in the cards (though we think she hasn’t *quite* ruled it out!) and she may instead focus on Short-format events.

Emily now collects 40 points for her win in the US Equestrian Open qualifier and has also earned a berth to the Championship Final in the 4*-L at Morven Park next fall. A points bonus of $50k is also on the line for the riders who secure the most points in the next 12 months.

“I think it’s great for the sport,” Emily said of the US Equestrian Open, which will distribute upwards of $250k in prize money and point bonuses in eventing. “I mean, it gives us another avenue to go down, as far as the excitement of something to build towards and bringing a little more public awareness to the sport. It just great because it does get easy for us to just focus on doing, you know, one competition as our goal for the season, our goal for the year. And so having this cumulative ask is really cool.”

Here’s some information on how the qualifications and points work for the US Equestrian Open:

FEI Winner Round-up

Sara Kozumplik and Rock Phantom. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Looking to the remaining FEI divisions that concluded today, Sara Kozumplik and Edy Rameika’s Rock Phantom (Spirit Hous xx – Ballycroy Rose, by Clonakilty Hero) ticked another box on their comeback tour after the Irish gelding underwent surgery on his neck earlier this year, winning the 3*-S with a healthy berth on a score of 29.2.

Monica Spencer and Marvel. Photo by Sally Spickard.

In the Young Horse 3*-S, Monica Spencer and Marvel (Cassiano 3 – Aberfino, by Corofino II) were the last pair standing, and they did lower two rails but finished the 7-year-old homebred of Sandra Ray’s first 3* in style with the victory.

Allie Knowles and Starburst. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Finally, Allie Knowles completed a wire-to-wire win in the Young Horse CCI2*-S with Katherine O’Brien’s spirited mare, Starburst, finishing the weekend on their dressage score of 24.8.

It’s been another great weekend of eventing here at Morven Park, and we’re already counting down the days to 2025, which will feature the championship final for the US Equestrian Open. Mark your calendars now, and meet us in Leesburg this time next year!

I’ll now take this crazy train on the road up to the MARS Maryland 5 Star next week, so we’ll see you soon for the penultimate 5* of the year.

Go Eventing.

Morven Park Fall International & H.T. (VA): [Website] [YouTube Channel] [USEF Network] [Scores]

All Horses Pass Final Horse Inspections at Morven Park Fall International & H.T.

By on Oct 13, 2024 9:21 am -

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Sally Spickard.

It’s a beautifully crisp fall morning here at Morven Park, where bright and early this morning we saw the FEI divisions trot up for their respective Ground Jury members to ensure the horses were fit and sound to continue on to the final show jumping phase later today.

We enjoyed a relatively drama-free trot-up (save, of course, a few spooks thrown in at the cutout of the mansion that sat at the end of the jog strip), though three horses were sent to the hold between the 4*-L and 4*-S divisions.

Monica Spencer and Marvel (CCI3*YH). Photo by Sally Spickard.

Jules Ennis Batters and Cooley O and Braden Speck and BSF Liam were sent to the holding box for the 4*-S, while Dani Sussman and Jos Bravio were held in the 4*-L. All three horses were accepted when they were brought back to present for a second time.

Ema Klugman and RF Redfern (CCI4*-S). Photo by Sally Spickard.

We also had one overnight leader withdrawn ahead of the jog in 4*-S in Hannah Sue Hollberg and Business Ben. This leaves Ema Klugman and RF Redfern in the lead of this division.

Sara Kozumplik and Rock Phanton (CCI3*S). Photo by Sally Spickard.

We now move ahead to the commencement of show jumping at 11 a.m. EST with the CCI2*-S Developing Horse Championship first to see. We’ll conclude with the CCI4*-L beginning at 2:25 p.m. EST. Meanwhile, the National divisions will tackle cross country throughout the day.

Allie Knowles and Sunburst (CCI2*YH). Photo by Sally Spickard.

Don’t forget to tune in live for show jumping on USEF Network and/or the Morven Park YouTube channel using the links below.

Morven Park Fall International & H.T. (VA): [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [YouTube Channel] [USEF Network] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy Leap to Morven Park CCI4*-L Lead, Hannah Sue Hollberg Leads US Equestrian Open Qualifier

By on Oct 12, 2024 7:00 pm -

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Prior to this year, Kansas-based Julie Wolfert had not competed in a CCI4*-L, though she’s produced a handful of horses up to the Advanced level throughout her career. This season, she came out in determination with the 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding SSH Playboy (Cit Cat – Stomeyford Black Pearl), a horse acquired in 2020 after a marathon of trials in Ireland with the owners behind Team Pivot, Sherri Gurske and Renee Senter. Today, Julie and “Jaego” jumped a flawless clear cross country, stopping the clock inside the optimum time of 10:24 to move from sixth after dressage into first overnight on a two-phase score of 34.5.

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing getting to this point. This summer, things went a bit sideways for Julie and “Jaego”. After finishing sixth in the CCI4*-L at Tryon in May, Julie ventured to Montana to tackle the 4*-L at Rebecca Farm. There, she picked up 20 penalties on cross country and despite finishing fourth overall felt her horse was not jumping with the same aplomb he usually tackles this phase with.

“This summer, we just kind of…it hasn’t been terrible, but we just kind of hit a roadblock, maybe had some runouts that aren’t normally typical for us,” Julie recalled. “The entire course [at Rebecca Farm] was for us, like he just was sticky everywhere and just not completely himself. So I was really bummed. And of course, as riders, we get in our head about that and we try to go back to square one and try to fix things, but then it’s hard to try to fix things, and there’s really no big venues to cross country school where I’m at to set up combinations I need. So I try my best to make it happen at home. But it just really hard to replicate that.”

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Julie took Jaego to the AECs at the end of August, where once again the horse came out stickier than typical and had an early frangible pin down on cross country. She decided to stick to her plan of picking up one more 4*-L on her fall schedule, traveling to Virginia early to stay with Jan Byyny, who helped her school some of the technical questions that had been causing trouble. “We walked off down banks until he was bored with life, and then we just thought we’d give [Morven Park] our best shot.”

Julie admits she was quite nervous to head out on cross country today. Morven Park is notoriously tough, a true prep for those wanting to step up the 5* level and in many ways a step up from the previous 4*-Ls Julie had done. She decided to really focus on the first part of the Derek di Grazia-designed track, injecting confidence early on and then worrying about speed.

“I decided, because [in] our last two runs, the beginning of the course has been a little bit sketchy, I would just take my time and really set him up properly in front of the combinations, get confidence going, and then I slowly let him just kind of ease into that gallop,” she explained. “I wasn’t even paying attention to my watch. I kept hearing it go off, and I know I’m behind every single minute until I hit the 10 minute mark, and then I was like, ‘Holy crap, I’m actually flying right now!’ I had no idea. Because he’s kind of kick ride; he’s a very slow, big Irish Sport Horse. He’s not this fast little Thoroughbred, just taking off with you and galloping and he just kind of keeps one pace about the entire course and that’s as fast he goes! So I was seriously in shock. At every event I’ve ever gone to, I’ve never made time with this horse, like never, not even at Prelim. So I literally — I can’t tell you how in shock I am right now. What just happened? I’m kind of pinching myself making sure this is real!”

Julie heads into show jumping tomorrow on a two-phase score of 34.5, without a rail in hand over second-placed Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri (35.5). SSH Playboy is a strong show jumper, having one double clear under his girth after running a 4*-L cross country, though he did lower two rails at Rebecca Farm — the sole marks on his international record.

“He’s a decent show jumper,” Julie said. “So honestly, as long as I do my part and stay out of his way, he knows his job, and he wants to be careful.”

In the meantime, you can find Julie rewatching her ride of a lifetime today, if you need her. “I’m just trying to relive every moment again, because that was…yeah, I’m so fortunate that I was able to have that ride on him today.”

Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Equally thrilled with her ride today was Great Britain’s Lucienne Bellissimo, who scored a clear round on cross country with Horse Scout Eventing’s Dyri (Diarado – La Calera, by King Milford xx), losing her top placing but still holding second and well within range to still collect a win should Julie and SSH Playboy have a rail. Producing the 12-year-old Holsteiner gelding to this point has been a practice in patience; he’s a careful horse, and Lucienne noted earlier this week that she was encouraging him to learn how to look at a jump without stopping at it — something that’s run them into trouble in the past. As a result, she’s not yet been able to really push for time, and to be fair, today that wasn’t her top goal.

Yes, after winning the Stable View Oktoberfest 4*-S last month, she felt things were really ticking, but she emphasized that her top priority was ensuring he could maintain his gallop and jump clear. She accomplished both, and in doing so only picked up four time penalties to go onto a two-phase score of 35.5.

“He was a really good boy. I’m really proud of him,” Lucienne said. “It was a little scrappy in places, but that’s as brave as he’s ever been. I walked the course this morning, and I sort of promised myself that I would wait until he had jumped that second water, which is before the big ditch brush, and I wouldn’t look at my watch until then. And I could see I was about like 15, 17 seconds down-ish, and that last stretch, I just thought, ‘if I can keep galloping with him, I will.’ And he was just traveling better today overall. He’s still a little bit looky, but so much more genuine and just felt like he understood his job better than last time I was here.”

Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Dyri did jump clear at this event last year, but did so with a hefty amount of time penalties (27.6), which makes today’s result that much more impactful and indicative of growth. “Something’s ticked in his head, where he’s now learning how to spook and travel at the same time,” she said. “He sometimes would hesitate and that’s where he sort of stalls, and he wasn’t stalling the same way today. He felt a bit like, ‘No, I get it, I can look and jump.’ He was finding it fun. They’ve got to enjoy it at this level, you know.”

Lucienne and Dyri jumped a double clear show jumping at Morven Park’s 4*-L last year, and while they do have some rails spotting their record we know they’ve got the chops to finish the job tomorrow. “It would be great if he could jump a clear tomorrow,” she said. “That is obviously what I’m going to aim for. But similarly, you know, if he’s tired — he’s not run this fast before around a four-Long — and sometimes they just surprise you, and they suddenly are a little flatter than normal. So, 100% I hope we can jump a clear but similarly, he’s proven to me today he’s good enough to do the distance. And if he needs to have a little bit more work with the show jumping, we will work with that.”

Allison Springer and No May Moon. Photo by Atalya Boytner for Erin Gilmore Photography.

Also jumping their way up the board, all the way from 12th after dressage into third, are Bromont 4*-L winners Allison Springer and No May Moon (Catherston Dazzler – Ebony Moon, by Mystic Replica). This pair is also the current top contender for the MARS Equestrian American Bred Trophy, which will award a cash prize to the two top-placed horses in the 4* divisions here that are bred here in the U.S. No May Moon, a Connemara/Thoroughbred mare, was bred by Allison’s longtime friend and supporter, Nancy Winter.

“Maizie” once again showed her chops as a true cross country horse today, earning one of the three clears inside the optimum time with Allison and adding nothing to her dressage score of 38.1. Despite the success Allison had with this 10-year-old mare, she admits she still had some nerves heading out of the start box today.

“There are definitely some parts in this course where it’s like, you’ve got to do your best job to give them a great ride in and then you have to have a partner. You have to have a horse that’s picking up on it and reading it,” she said, noting the serious nature of the imposing Leaf Pit question designed by Derek in honor of late former course designer here, Tremaine Cooper. “She was just spot on. She just kept looking for the flags and doing it. So I’m really pleased.”

Despite any nerves she felt about today, though, Allison expressed her full trust in Derek di Grazia as a horses-first designer, letting that trust and her preparation put those butterflies to rest. “I always feel like he makes courses that the horses really read,” she elaborated. “Even if you’re like, ‘Oh my God, I don’t know,’ I’m just then like, ‘well, Derek built this, so he knows right.’ So I have so much faith in him as a course designer. And it was great.”

As for the time, Allison says she really didn’t look at her watch until she was nearly home. She broke her left hand earlier this year and still wears a brace, so she focused on managing her ride instead of checking the time and messing with her hands too much. “She’s a very fast horse — she’s my little dirt bike,” Allison described. “She’s little, and she likes to jump out of pace a bit. I can really box her up and jump her around. So I have always just kind of let her run where she’s happy. The ground was fast today. Bromont was definitely heavier and she had one of the quicker times there too.”

Matt Brown and Alderwood. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Matt Brown also made some major moves up in the standings, leaping from 14th into fourth with Shelley Onderdonk’s Alderwood (Flex A Bill – Calandra Z, by Cobra), a 12-year-old Irish gelding contesting his second 4*-L this weekend after coming 11th in his debut at TerraNova last fall. This is the first horse Matt’s brought up to this level in a handful of years, so it’s a very warm welcome back!

Buck Davidson and Cooley Candyman. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Rounding out the top five are Buck Davidson (who did make it back from his whirlwind trip yesterday to pick up his kids in Florida, despite missing one of his flights!) and his own and Carl Segal’s Cooley Candyman (Sligo Candy Boy – Dashing Hill, by Flame Hill). This pair picked up eight time penalties to drop off the podium for now, but their current score of 40.3 is still within striking distance should he jump a clear and anyone in front of him lowers a rail or two.

Hannah Sue Hollberg and Business Ben Lead CCI4*-S

Hannah Sue Hollberg and Business Ben. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The first qualifier leg of the new US Equestrian Open is currently led by Hannah Sue Hollberg and former Allison Springer ride Business Ben (Artie Schiller – Min Elreeh, by Danzig), a 14-year-old Thoroughbred gelding owned by Ms. Jacqueline Mars and Christa Schmidt. This pair took over the lead after dressage leaders Jennie Brannigan and Connery had an untimely frangible pin penalty on course, and their score of 38.1 gives them a rail in hand over second-placed Ema Klugman and RF Redfern (42.9).

Ema Klugman and RF Redfern. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Hannah Sue emphasizes that she’s focused on building a partnership with Business Ben — always a challenge when a rider takes on a horse that’s competed Advanced already, though he was beautifully produced to the level by Allison. “I haven’t really tried to go fast at all,” Hannah Sue said. “He’s got a great record with Allison, so I figured he’s really good, and he knows how to do it and go fast. But I didn’t want to do that until I felt like it was worth it. He’s a freak. He’s so much fun.”

Looking to the remaining divisions, here’s a look at your leaders and winners crowned today:

Sara Kozumplik and Rock Phantom. Photo by Sally Spickard.

CCI3*-S: Sara Kozumplik and Rock Phantom lead the way in a very tough 3* today. The course claimed its fair share of victims, though no injuries to horse or human have been reported at this time. Sara is bringing “Rocky” back up the levels after he had surgery on his neck, and they delivered a confident clear today to add just one second of time and lead on a 29.2 — a healthy berth ahead of show jumping tomorrow.

Monica Spencer and Marvel. Photo by Sally Spickard.

CCI3*-S – Developing Horse Championship: Monica Spencer and Sandra Ray’s homebred, Marvel are the last team standing in this smaller 7-year-old Championship division after Jeff Kibbe’s course claimed the remaining five horses, primarily at the tricky first water complex that featured an angled brush on an island. Monica, who rides for New Zealand but is basing here in Virginia on a multi-year visa, and Marvel — in his first 3* this weekend — added 10.4 time penalties to sit on a score of 43.4.

Kelley Hutchinson and Cascadella 8. Photo by Chelsea Spear for Erin Gilmore Photography.

CCI2*-S: Riding for Ireland, Kelley Hutchinson and Lizzie Hoff’s Cascadella 8 moved up from fourth after dressage and show jumping to win the 2*-S on a score of 30.1.

Allie Knowles and Starburst. Photo by Sally Spickard.

CCI2*-S Developing Horse Championship: Leading the way in the 6-year-old Championship are Allie Knowles and Katherine O’Brien’s Starburst, who is making her FEI debut this weekend and retains her dressage score of 24.8 to stay ahead of the pack going into show jumping.

Tomorrow we’ll conclude the action at Morven Park with the final jog for the 4*-L pairs at 8 a.m. EST, followed by show jumping beginning at 11 a.m. with the Developing Horse CCI2*-S. We’ll see the 4*-S beginning at 1:45 p.m. and the 4*-L around 2:25 p.m. As always, you can tune in live on USEF Network or the Morven Park YouTube channel.

Morven Park Fall International & H.T. (VA): [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [YouTube Channel] [USEF Network] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Preview the First US Equestrian Open of Eventing Qualifier Leg at Morven Park Fall International

By on Oct 10, 2024 9:00 am -

There’s much to look forward to this weekend as the Morven Park Fall International & H.T. prepares for take-off, hosting a slew of championship divisions and a qualifier leg for the new US Equestrian Open. Let’s take a look at what’s on tap in beautiful Leesburg, VA.

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The Offerings

Morven Park’s CCI4*-L is a major fall destination for horses needing an MER qualification. It’s a tough track on par with its counterpart at Bromont with a Derek di Grazia-designed cross country that takes full advantage of the rolling terrain and expansive space found on the property. Truthfully, there’s certainly enough room on this property to host a CCI5*! Derek di Grazia took over designing here after the tragic passing of former designer Tremaine Cooper in 2021.

Also on offer this weekend is a CCI4*-S division as well as FEI divisions from 2*-S up, and National divisions from Novice through Preliminary. Within the CCI3*-S and CCI2*-S are the USEF/USEA Developing Horse National Championship for 6- and 7-year-olds. Want to learn more about the field? Click on over to the USEA’s Fast Facts here.

Within the two 4* divisions, a trophy for the top-placed American-bred horse will be awarded by MARS Equestrian, with an additional $15,000 in prize monies up for grabs for this prize.

For the 4*-S division, we’ll see the first Qualifier leg for the brand-new US Equestrian Open, a circuit aimed at promoting the three Olympic disciplines ahead of the LA Olympics in 2028. $2 million in prize money is on offer across the three disciplines of dressage, show jumping, and eventing, and $250k is up for grabs in eventing alone. Morven Park is the first of 18 qualifier legs spanning the country. Riders are given points based on their placing at event qualifier leg they complete, putting them in the running to earn the season points bonus as well as qualify for the final, which will take place here at Morven Park in October of 2025. Qualification for the final, which will be at CCI4*-L competition, is achieved by earning at least one MER from a qualifier leg. For the series bonus, riders’ six best scores will be factored in for the final ranking. You can see an explainer of the series here.

The Piedmont Equine Practice will award prizes to the top-placed U25 riders in the CCI3*-S and the combined 4*-L and 4*-S divisions. The Rockview Mr. Diamond Award will be given to the top-placed rider in the Preliminary Rider division. Finally, the Sparrow’s Nio Award will be given to a pair in the CCI3*-S, selected by the Ground Jury, who demonstrates incredible partnership with their horse throughout the weekend.

The Schedule

Beautiful Morven Park! Photo by Sally Spickard.

We’ll kick things off with the First Horse Inspection for the CCI4*-L division on Thursday, October 10 at 3:00 p.m. EST.

Dressage will begin on Friday, October 11, with the 4* divisions going first and concluding with 2*-S dressage. National divisions will start their competition with dressage and show jumping on Saturday, October 12.

On Saturday, we’ll see the FEI divisions tackle cross country, starting at 9:00 a.m. EST with the 3*-S, followed by the 4* divisions and ending the day with the standard 2* divisions, which will have show jumped earlier in the day on Saturday.

Sunday brings about our Final Horse Inspection for the 4*-L, followed by show jumping for all FEI divisions except the standard 2*-S and National cross country. Show jumping begins with the 2* Young Horse competitors and concluding with the 4* divisions.

How to Watch Live

Dana Cooke and FE Quattro. Photo by Sally Spickard.

You’ll have two opportunities to watch live all weekend, including one option to catch at least some of the action for free by accessing the Morven Park YouTube channel. USEF Network on ClipMyHorse.TV will also carry CCI4*-L and CCI4*-S dressage, all cross country on Saturday, and all show jumping on Sunday. You can access this live stream using your ClipMyHorse account or by linking your USEF account for free access. You can find instructions on how to link your accounts here.

Who’s Competing

The Morven Park Leaf Pit. Photo by Sally Spickard.

18 horses and riders are entered in the CCI4*-L and 16 are entered in the CCI4*-S. The list for the 4*-L includes Great Britain’s Lucienne Bellissimo with both Dyri (who just won the 4*-S at Stable View Oktoberfest) and Tremanton, ticking off more boxes as she aims for a potential 5* next spring. Buck Davidson’s ride, Cooley Candyman, was second in the 4*-L here in 2021 and will be looking for a clean finish this weekend after picking up a pesky 20 on cross country at Tryon’s 4*-L earlier this year. Ariel Grald’s stunning Isla de Coco, who’s not finished worse than third in FEI competition since competing here as a 7-year-old in 2021, will tackle her first 4*-L after some intentional prep and solid finishes in her three previous 4*-S starts. Canadian Olympian Colleen Loach will bring forward FE Golden Eye for his major fall goal. Allison Springer will bring back her Bromont 4*-L winner, No May Moon, for another crack at the level after showing us all how it’s done in fine fashion at the tough Canadian venue in June. Arden Wildasin and Sunday Times are also inching toward a 5* debut next year, having competed well at Bromont this spring and now aiming for an equally strong finish at Morven Park.

In the 4*-S divisions, we’ll see riders such as Mia Farley, bringing her younger horses Invictus and BGS Calculated Chaos for a crack, Hannah Sue Hollberg and former Allison Springer ride Business Ben, Erin Kanara with another OTTB in Charmed Victory, Ema Klugman and RF Redfern, Emile Beshear Mastervich’s VHC Eventing 3* winner Rio de Janerio, and a slew of other competitive combinations both early on in their 4* career and carrying more experience.

This is, of course, by no means a full list, so you can view all of the entries across divisions here.

I will be our eyes and ears on the ground this weekend as I arrive on Thursday evening, so stay tuned for daily reports from the action! Also, if you’re grooming at Morven Park — or if you know a #Supergroom working here this weekend — please nominate yourself or someone you know for our Achieve Equine #Supergroom Award! Nominations close on Friday, October 11.

Morven Park Fall International & H.T. (VA): [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [YouTube Channel] [USEF Network] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Nominate a Groom at Morven Park for EN’s Achieve Equine #Supergroom Award

By on Oct 9, 2024 10:30 am -

It’s time for another round of our Achieve Equine #Supergroom Award! This time, we’re hitting the road to give out some in-person awards, one at Morven Park this weekend and others at the MARS Maryland 5 Star next weekend. Stay tuned for the nomination form for Maryland 5 Star grooms, as well our upcoming winter #supergroom Award that will be open to all grooms.

For now, we’d appreciate if you took a moment to nominate a hardworking groom who is working at Morven Park Fall International this weekend for one of two #Supergroom backpacks with a few surprises inside. Nominations will close on Friday, October 11, and we’ll contact the winners to get them their prizes over the weekend at Morven Park.

To nominate a #Supergroom, click here or use the form embedded below. Good luck to all, and Go Eventing!

Morven Park Fall International & H.T. (VA): [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [YouTube Channel] [USEF Network] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

How to Follow Military Boekelo CCIO4*-L This Weekend

By on Oct 9, 2024 9:00 am -

Hallie Coon and Cute Girl jump into the main water at Boekelo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We’re kicking things off on a busy weekend of top-level eventing with two major CCI4*-L events happening here in the U.S. at Morven Park and also at Military Boekelo in the Netherlands. As I write this, the First Horse Inspection at Boekelo will be wrapping up, so you can anticipate a jog report coming from Tilly Berendt later on today. In the meantime, here are some more bits of information to help you follow along all weekend.

The Schedule

Tomorrow sees the start of two very full days of dressage, with 97 entries finalized for the start of competition. This is down from the original number of 103, and we do see that the USA’s Dan Kreitl has unfortunately withdrawn Carmango from competition before it begins; Tilly tells us he was sent to the hold along with several others in the field and then withdrew from the hold. She’ll have more in her forthcoming jog report.

Dressage will kick off at 9:00 a.m. local time, which is about 3:00 a.m. EST, on Thursday and Friday, 10/10 and 10/11.

From there, we’ll move to a full day of cross country on Saturday (10/12), also beginning at 9:00 a.m. local time / 3:00 a.m. EST.

Show jumping will commence at 10:30 a.m. local time / 4:30 a.m. EST on Sunday (10/13) to determine the final individual and Nations Cup team winners.

How to Watch Live

There will be two live streams to follow this weekend, one on ClipMyHorse.TV (which you’ll need a membership to watch — more info on that here) as well as on the FEI YouTube channel, which is free. You can find all of the scheduled live streams on the FEI YouTube channel here. All three phases will be broadcast on both streams.

Who’s Competing

More like — who isn’t competing? Boekelo is a big destination for many riders based in Europe, and it’s also one circled on the U.S. Eventing Team’s calendar each fall. The atmosphere at Boekelo — known amongst eventers as a perfect party venue, featuring a raucous competitors’ welcome party on Tuesday evening each year — is unmatched, with spectators crowding in on cross country day to imbibe while taking in the action. This and it’s up-to-standard CCI4*-L course makes it a standout for competitors looking to tick off an MER for a 5* next spring or to gain some strong Nations Cup experience.

A total of eight Nations Cup teams representing Germany, Ireland, USA, Great Britain, Sweden, the Netherlands, France, and New Zealand. Representing the USA are team riders Phillip Dutton and Possante, Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic, Cassie Sanger and Redfield Fyre, and Hallie Coon with Cute Girl. Also representing the USA this week are Lauren Nicholson with both I’ll Have Another and Larcot Z, Olivia Dutton and Sea of Clouds, Alexa Gartenberg and Cooley Kildaire, Sophia Middlebrook and Prontissimo, and Cosby Green with Cooley Seeing Magic.

You can view the full list of entries here, which is the same link that will serve as your leaderboard throughout the weekend. Stay tuned for much more coming your way all weekend from Boekelo!

Military Boekelo CCIO4*-L (Netherlands): [Website] [Entries/Timing/Scoring] [ClipMyHorse.TV Live Stream] [FEI YouTube Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

MARS Maryland 5 Star Drawn Order: Inaugural Winners to Trailblaze

By on Oct 8, 2024 5:58 pm -

Boyd Martin and On Cue. Photo by Abby Powell.

The drawn order of running for this year’s MARS Maryland 5 Star is live, which means we now know which rider we’ll see first down centerline on dressage day and first out of the start box on cross country.

This year’s trailblazer is a special one: Boyd Martin and the Turner family’s On Cue, the inaugural winners of this young CCI5* back in 2021, will be our first pair to see to open this year’s event. Boyd’s the busiest rider in the 5* division this year with three rides in On Cue, the Turner family’s Tsetserleg, and Yankee Creek Ranch LLC’s Commando 3. Tsetserleg will be Boyd’s last ride and the final in the division to see, while Commando 3 will take his turn about midway through the field.

Harry Meade and Away Cruising (no word yet on if he’s packed these pants for Maryland, but we sure hope he does). Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Representing Great Britain, Harry Meade will be our first visitor from overseas with the first of his two rides, Jane Dear, Charlotte and Peter Opperman’s Away Cruising. He’ll be the penultimate to see with his second horse, 5* debutant Et Hop du Matz (owned by Harry as well as Mandy Gray).

The full drawn order for the CCI5* is:

  1. Boyd Martin (USA) and On Cue
  2. Jessica Phoenix (CAN) and Fluorescent Adolescent
  3. Harry Meade (GBR) and Away Cruising
  4. Lillian Heard Wood (USA) and LCC Barnaby
  5. Emily Hamel (USA) and Corvett
  6. Cosby Green (USA) and Highly Suspicious
  7. David Doel (GBR) and Galileo Nieuwmoed
  8. Buck Davidson (USA) and Sorocaima
  9. Grace Taylor (USA) and Game Changer
  10. Lindsay Traisnel (CAN) and Bacyrouge
  11. Allie Knowles (USA) and Morswood
  12. Boyd Martin (USA) and Commando 3
  13. Bubby Upton (GBR) and Cola
  14. Tiana Coudray (USA) and Cancaras Girl
  15. Tamie Smith (USA) and Mai Baum
  16. Oliver Townend (GBR) and Ballaghmor Class
  17. Joe Meyer (NZL) and Harbin
  18. Ema Klugman (AUS) and Bronte Beach Z
  19. Jennie Brannigan (USA) and Twilightslastgleam
  20. Tim Price (NZL) and Falco
  21. Jessica Phoenix (CAN) and Wabbit
  22. Harry Meade (GBR) and Et Hop du Matz
  23. Boyd Martin (USA) and Tsetserleg

Boyd Martin and Mo Chroi. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Boyd’s also drawn the same duty for the CCI3*-L, which serves as the USEF National CCI3*-L Championship, taking that first spot with the Turner family’s rangy chestnut, Mo Chroi. Kiersten Miller and her own Rosconnell Alto will be the final pair to go in the CCI3*-L in the first two phases.

You can view the full order of running for both divisions here.

You can view full entries to the MARS Maryland 5 Star and much more information on the event here.

MARS Maryland 5 Star: [Website] [Entries] [Tickets] [Volunteer] [EN’s Coverage]

Our coverage of the MARS Maryland 5 Star is brought to you by our incredible supporters, Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional products to keep your horse feeling their best at all times. They’ll even get on the phone with you to help you formulate a solid supplementation plan for your horse’s individual needs! We’d really appreciate your support of KPP, as they’re champions for our sport and beyond and are wonderful people to boot. Check them out here.

Les 5 Étoiles de Pau Sees Record Entries with 80 Combinations on Roster

By on Oct 8, 2024 12:00 pm -

Ros Canter and Izilot DHI. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We now have the full entry list for the final CCI5* of the season, held in France at Les 5 Etoiles de Pau from October 24-27. A record-setting roster of 80 combinations, an increase from 2023, will tackle this unique track that, while it doesn’t feature the grueling terrain of some of its 5* counterparts, presents a technical challenge in an atmosphere full of rowdy spectators. Pierre Michelet, the cross country designer for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, returns as designer in residence for this edition of Pau.

Featuring on the roster are last year’s Pau champions, Ros Canter and Izilot DHI, who will return to defend their title after collecting a handful of wins and podium finishes at the 4* level since. They did start two other 5*s this year, at both Badminton and Burghley, but ran into difficulty on cross country in both instances and retired on course rather than push for a completion. It’s highly likely that this will be your first-phase leader, having scored a jaw-dropping 19.9 at Burghley last month and averaging scores in the low 20s otherwise. If Ros and “Isaac” can put those pieces together in France, they could be looking at a rare repeat title.

Tom McEwen and Brookfield Quality. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Ros’ fellow Brits represent about 40% of the entries at Pau, underscoring once more just how much depth the reigning Olympic champions have waiting in the wings. The British contingent features pairs such as Pippa Funnell and MCS Maverick, Emily King and Valmy Biats, Yasmin Ingham and Rehy DJ, Piggy March and Halo, Tom McEwen with 5* debutant MHS Brown Jack as well as Brookfield Quality, who started Luhmühlen but did not complete that first 5* start. Oliver Townend is also slated to ride three horses in Kentucky champion Cooley Rosalent, and 5* debutants Crazy du Loir and En Taro des Vernier. For the British we’ll also see the return of Ben Hobday and Shadow Man‘s partnership; you’ll recall Ben “lent” Shadow Man to Australian rider Chris Burton for the Paris Olympics. That gamble paid off in spades, earning Chris an individual silver medal. For his part, Ben has focused heavily on show jumping since his last 5* start at Badminton in 2022 with this horse and makes his first return to the level since then.

The French are also sending a healthy contingent to their home 5*, with nine combinations entered, including the oldest horse in the field in 17-year-old Toronto d’Aurois, making his ninth 5* start with Arthur Duffort in the irons and their first time back at Pau since 2021.

Clarke Johnstone and Menlo Park (NZL). Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We’ll also see strong showings from the Kiwis, who are sending nine combinations including 2021 Pau winner Tim Price, who brings forward the 10-year-old Jarillo for his first 5*. Paris Olympians Clarke Johnstone and Menlo Park will also contest this event — a first true 5* for this horse, in fact, as he’s primarily been aimed at championships and competed both in Paris as well as in Pratoni at World Championships in 2022.

Ireland is another country sending forward a strong number of competitors, with 11 pairs entered, including Paris Olympian Sarah Ennis and Grantstown Jackson, Joseph Murphy and Belline Fighting Spirit, and Felicity Ward with Regal Bounty.

Will Coleman and Off The Record. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

For the USA, Paris Olympians Boyd Martin and Will Coleman will be the sole representatives, bringing Fedarman B (Boyd’s Paris partner) and Miss Lulu Herself (making her 5* debut), and Off the Record (Will’s Pratoni and CHIO Aachen partner). The U.S. may have a small contingent, but both Fedarman B and Off the Record in particular are strong 5* horses with a good shot at a podium finish in France.

Boyd Martin and Fedarman B. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

This is, of course, not a comprehensive preview — we’ll have that coming in our Form Guide the week of the event. In the meantime, the full entry list can be found here.

Pau is introducing its own live stream this year as well. For roughly $26 USD, you can access the full live feed throughout the weekend. You can view more information here.

We’ll have much more coming your way as this final 5* of the year approaches, and as always Tilly Berendt will be our eyes and ears on the ground for our full coverage all weekend. Stay tuned, and Go Eventing.

Les 5 Etoiles de Pau: [Website] [Entries] [Live Stream]

Our coverage of the Pau is brought to you by our incredible supporters, Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional products to keep your horse feeling their best at all times. They’ll even get on the phone with you to help you formulate a solid supplementation plan for your horse’s individual needs! We’d really appreciate your support of KPP, as they’re champions for our sport and beyond and are wonderful people to boot. Check them out here.

Maryland 5 Star Entry Preview: Mai Baum Returns, Strong International Contenders Feature on Roster

By on Oct 3, 2024 9:00 am -

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum at Kentucky.

Entries have closed and we now have a small but mighty field to look forward to at this year’s MARS Maryland 5 Star, presented by Brown Advisory (October 17-20). As always, the Maryland 5 Star also features a large CCI3*-L entry list, as well as entries for the USEA East Coast Young Event Horse Championships for 4- and 5-year-olds, all of which run alongside the CCI5* division.

The North America-Based Contenders

Boyd Martin and On Cue. Photo by Abby Powell.

It goes without saying that all eyes will be on Mai Baum, the Defender Kentucky champion from 2023, who returns to the CCI5* level for one last hurrah with Tamie Smith. The 18-year-old German gelding owned by the Ahearn and Markell families narrowly missed out on a team spot for Paris this summer after dealing with some minor injuries, but Tamie set her sights on Maryland as an ideal “plan B.” “Lexus” has had a light year due to the aforementioned downtime, winning an Intermediate at Twin Rivers this summer en route to the East coast. He last competed at the 4*+ level earlier this year after finishing third individually at CHIO Aachen in the summer of 2023, winning the 4*-S at Galway Downs to kick off his 2024 season. He also won the Open Intermediate at Twin Rivers in September as his final prep for Maryland.

Paris Olympian Boyd Martin features on this list with three horses who are household names at this point. This includes the inaugural Maryland 5 Star winner, On Cue (owned by the Turner family), who was 10th at Burghley in 2023. “Cue”, who is also one of three 18-year-old horses in the field, has also enjoyed a lighter prep this summer, leaning on her experience to prep her for this start without unnecessary wear and tear.

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Boyd’s Tokyo partner Tsetserleg (owned by the Turner family) also joins the field, just missing out on the 18-year-old club membership at 17 this year. Of all the 5* starts to this U.S.-bred Trakehner gelding’s record, Maryland 5 Star has never been one of them, and Boyd has eyed this up as his goal for his longtime friend after taking him to Badminton earlier this year.

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Making his debut at the 5* level is Commando 3 (owned by Yankee Creek Ranch), who was Boyd’s direct reserve horse in Paris. In the short time Boyd’s had the ride on this 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding, he’s ticked off all the prep stops one would imagine en route to a competitive 5* debut, including a second-place finish in the Lexington CCI4*-S in April, a win in the CCI4*-L at Morven Park last fall, and a top 5 in the CCI4*-S at Bromont last spring. While this is very much a horse for the future, you also shouldn’t let the first 5* deter you from picking “Connor” as a top finisher.

Jennie Saville and Twilightslastgleam. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Jennie Brannigan is another one to watch on the U.S. side, bringing forward the Gardners’ homebred Twilightslastgleam, a 14-year-old Thoroughbred gelding who made his 5* debut here at Maryland in 2022, finishing just outside of the top 15. Fun fact, this horse also competed in the Young Event Horse Championships at Fair Hill when he was just a young gun!

Buck Davidson and Sorocaima. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Buck Davidson will bring forward the 13-year-old Thoroughbred gelding Sorocaima, who seriously impressed at Kentucky this spring with a sixth place finish. Buck and “Cam” were also inside the top 10 in the final standings at Maryland in 2023.

Emily Hamel and Corvett. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Emily Hamel is another name most eventing fans will recognize, thanks in part to her partner, Corvett‘s “unusual” jumping style. This will be Emily and “Barry’s” eighth CCI5* start together, and their third time competing in the Maryland 5 Star. They’ve done nearly every 5* there is to be done in the world at this point, except for Pau and Adelaide, and they’re consistent performers who can generally be trusted to jump clear and finish close their dressage score.

Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach. Photo by Abby Powell.

Ema Klugman is back for another 5* start with the athletic mare Bronte Beach Z. This will be Bronte’s second CCI5* start, having debuted at the level in Kentucky this year, where she finished just outside of the top 20. Ema, who just started a new job as a newly-minted attorney working as a law clerk, balances her new career with managing several horses at the Advanced and Intermediate levels, and Bronte Beach is a product of this system. We can anticipate improvement from this pair as the 12-year-old Zangersheide mare gains more experience and strength for the demands of the top level.

Allie Knowles and Morswood. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Allie Knowles and Morswood are another pair we’ve come to anticipate on these 5* entry lists, coming forward this time for their seventh start at the level. They took an abbreviated trip around Burghley’s cross country last month, an unlucky parting of ways cutting their trip overseas short and putting a re-route on their path.

Joe Meyer and Harbin. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Riding for New Zealand but very much a part of the U.S. community is Joe Meyer, who will bring foward Harbin (owned by the Meyers as well as Theresa Foote), a 14-year-old Thoroughbred gelding, for his second CCI5* start. This was another pair that caught our eye in Kentucky with their gritty performance, where they finished in the top 15.

Jessie Phoenix and Wabbit. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Three-time Canadian Olympian Jessie Phoenix will bring forward fan favorite (it’s all in the ears!) Wabbit (owned by Jim Phillips) for his second CCI5* of the year after completing Badminton this spring. Wabbit is yet another Thoroughbred in this year’s field, and Jessie will be looking to improve upon her top 20 finish with this horse at Maryland in 2022. She will also ride the 16-year-old Canadian Sporthorse mare Fluorescent Adolescent (owned by Makayla Rydzik) in her CCI5* debut.

Lindsay Traisnel and Bacyrouge. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Also representing Canada is Lindsay Traisnel, who will compete Patrica Pearce’s 13-year-old Selle Francais gelding Bacyrouge in his first CCI5*. Lindsay has started a 5* before (Pau – 2012) but will be looking for her first completion and a long-awaited return to the level with the horse she took to the Pan American Games last fall, earning a team gold medal and individual bronze.

Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Lillian Heard Wood is partnered with the third 18-year-old horse in the field in one LCC Barnaby, who comes forward for his 15th CCI5* start. This horse has competed at this level for nearly a decade with Lillian, and she’s the first to tell you he’s only gotten better (and more rideable on cross country!) with age.

Last but certainly not least, three UK-based American riders are coming “home” for a visit and a trip around the Maryland 5 Star.

Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

London Olympian Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl burst onto the 5* scene at Badminton earlier this year, their sophomore effort at the level after parting ways on cross country in the now-14-year-old mare’s debut. At Badminton, they put Burghley to bed for good with an emphatic top-25 finish that featured a near-personal best dressage mark.

Cosby Green and Highly Suspicious. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Cosby Green, fresh off a 16th-place finish at Burghley with Copper Beach, will bring the 14-year-old Irish gelding Highly Suspicious for his 5* debut. This is a horse Cosby’s had in her program for the better part of 10 years, methodically producing him for this moment. She’s got a lot of experience at this level now, but bringing a first-time horse versus one that’s done it before requires a different approach. She’s done that in spades, working with the Prices (with whom she’s been basing in the UK) and selecting the right events to test the horse’s mettle before stepping up to 5*. She and Highly Suspicious are coming off back-to-back 4* podium finishes in Ireland and France and have also finished strong in their two CCI4*-L competitions.

Grace Taylor and Game Changer. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Grace Taylor is also coming over from the UK, bringing the 12-year-old Irish Sporthorse gelding, Game Changer, for a third CCI5* start. This pair has jumped around cross country at Badminton (18th – 2024) and Burghley (withdrew before show jumping – 2023) and come forward well-prepared for their first 5* on American soil.

One notable absentee from this roster on the U.S. side is Diabolo, who was to contest his first 5* with Will Coleman at Maryland. Will shared with EN that “Dab” picked up a minor injury in his last prep run in Unionville and will be sidelined for the remainder of the season.

The Overseas Entries

Six of the entries on this year’s Maryland list come from international riders (not counting the U.S. riders based in the UK mentioned above).

Oliver Townend and Ballaghmor Class. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Current world #3 and defending Kentucky champion Oliver Townend (GBR) is making another trip over for Maryland, this time with another former Kentucky champion, Ballaghmor Class (owned by Angela Hislop, Val Ryan, and Karyn Shuter). One of several 17-year-olds in the field, “Thomas” capped off 2023 in a big way, winning Defender Burghley for the second time and adding to his bursting trophy cabinet. This is the most successful horse in the field, winning three 5*s and finishing off the podium just once, in fifth place, in nine starts. This 10th 5* stands to be a big one for Oliver and Ballaghmor Class if they can return to the form they’ve demonstrated to this point.

Tim Price and Falco. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

World #7 and another winner here at Maryland, Tim Price (NZL), will compete with Falco (owned by Sue Benson), who was his partner for a sixth place individual finish in Paris this summer. Falco is also a 5* winner in his own right, taking the Pau title 2021, which has been his sole 5* start as he’s been aimed primarily at championships in the intervening years. He was individual and team bronze at World Championships in Pratoni and at 14 still has much left to give — including, potentially, another 5* trophy in his first event on U.S. soil.

Harry Meade and Away Cruising. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Harry Meade (GBR) finds himself rather flush with 5* horses this year, bringing two to Maryland after competing three other horses at Burghley last month. He’s got two solid contenders in the Dear and Opperman families’ 17-year-old Away Cruising (also making his 10th 5* start at Maryland) and 5* debutant Et Hop Du Matz (owned by Mandy Gray).

Bubby Upton and Cola. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Bubby Upton continues her incredible comeback story with a first trip to the U.S. aboard Cola, who was 10th at Badminton this spring. Bubby had a series of massive injuries last summer after a fall while riding on the flat. She underwent extensive surgeries to stabilize a burst fracture of the L3 and a horizontal fracture of the L2 vertebrae, and went on to return to the 5* level at Badminton. And she hasn’t just launched a comeback — she’s in it to win it, and she’s got a horse to do it on. A frangible pin penalty at Badminton created a “what could have been” scenario, but she’ll be ready to put that to bed this month in Maryland and leave it all out on the cross country track.

David Doel and Galileo Nieuwmoed. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

David Doel is making his second trip to the U.S. and first to the Maryland 5 Star with Galileo Nieuwmoed (owned by Mary Fox, Gillian Jonas, and the rider), making their ninth CCI5* start together. This pair is yet another serious threat to the top of the leaderboard, having coming second at Burghley last year. They’ve finished at least in the top five in four times in their 5* partnership and stand to make it a fifth this. month.

And there you have it! It’s a small field, but in an Olympic year and with two other 5*s on the late summer/fall calendar, it’s to be expected. We’ll be cheering on each and every rider, and you’ll be able to learn even more about the 5* pairs in our forthcoming Form Guide, which is included in the MARS Maryland 5 Star Digital Program.

You can view full entries to the MARS Maryland 5 Star and much more information on the event here.

MARS Maryland 5 Star: [Website] [Entries] [Tickets] [Volunteer] [EN’s Coverage]

Our coverage of the MARS Maryland 5 Star is brought to you by our incredible supporters, Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional products to keep your horse feeling their best at all times. They’ll even get on the phone with you to help you formulate a solid supplementation plan for your horse’s individual needs! We’d really appreciate your support of KPP, as they’re champions for our sport and beyond and are wonderful people to boot. Check them out here.

US Equestrian Open of Eventing Announces Qualifier Schedule

By on Oct 2, 2024 9:30 am -

Following the recent announcement of the forthcoming US Equestrian Open, a new series of events highlighting the Olympic disciplines of eventing, dressage, and show jumping, the qualifier competitions for the Eventing competition have been unveiled.

The US Equestrian Open of Eventing will feature an unprecedented amount of prize monies, including $1 million on offer across disciplines and $200,000 up for grabs at the Eventing Final hosted at Morven Park in October of 2025.

More details have yet to be revealed about the series, but the qualifier pathway will feature a $50,000 series award that can be distributed based on rankings. The qualifier schedule also highlights venues around the country and on both coasts to ensure athletes in all areas can have a chance to compete in the series.

The full Eventing Final qualifier schedule is as follows:

2024 Competitions:
1. Morven Park International & Fall Horse Trials CCI-4*-S – October 10-13
2. Bouckaert Equestrian Horse Trials International CCI4*-S – October 25-27

2025 Competitions:
1. Bouckaert Equestrian Horse Trials International CCI4*-S – March 6-9
2. Carolina International CCI4*-S – March 13-16
3. The Event at Terranova CCI4*-S – March 27-30
4. Stable View Spring CCI4*-S – April 4-6
5. Twin Rivers Spring International CCI4*-S – April 10-13
6. Ocala International Festival of Eventing CCI4* – April 17-20
7. Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI4*-S – April 23-27
8. Tryon International Three-Day Event CCI4*-S – May 7-11
9. Aspen Farm Horse Trials CCI4*-S – June 12-15
10. The Maryland International CCI4*-S – July 3-7
11. The Event at Rebecca Farm CCI4*-S – July 16-20
12. Bouckaert Equestrian Horse Trials International CCI4*-S – August 29-31
13. The Fork at Tryon CCI4* – September 11-14
14. Twin Rivers Fall International CCI4*-S – September 19-21
15. Stable View Oktoberfest CCI4*S – September 24-28
16. Woodside Fall International CCI4*-S – October 3-5

The Final:
US Equestrian Open of Eventing Final – Morven Park International & Fall Horse Trials CCI4*-L – October 9-12

The US Equestrian Open has a new website, on which you’ll be able to follow along with events in each discipline’s series, leaderboard updates, and live streaming information. We’ll keep you updated on new announcements from this series and beyond and will see you at the first qualifier leg happening at Morven Park next weekend.

 

US Equestrian Announces Changes to GR838 Regarding Unethical Treatment of Horses

By on Oct 1, 2024 10:00 am -

US Equestrian has confirmed some additional changes to a forthcoming update to GR838, which deals with the reporting and handling of horse abuse incidents. Until December 1, 2024, the rule is written to cover reports of horse abuse at USEF-licensed or endorsed competitions only. This means that reports of abuse, or in the updated language provided for this rule, “unethical treatment of horses” that occur on private property do not currently fall under the USEF’s jurisdiction.

Related to recent reports of abusive behavior on the part of riders such as Cesar Parra in dressage and, later, Andrew McConnon in eventing, US Equestrian undertook an update to the rule that will expand its abilities to enforce this rule on private property. The update will not, however, apply retroactively, which means that reports of unethical behavior that are filed prior to December 1 will not qualify under this jurisdiction.

“Individuals who engage in unethical treatment of horses—regardless of location—are compromising the integrity of our sport and endangering its viability, sustainability, and public perception at a time when all equestrian sport, including USEF-governed breeds and disciplines, is under increasing scrutiny,” US Equestrian wrote in a press release. “Situations such as those that have come to light recently via social media are unacceptable. US Equestrian has heard your concerns and appreciates the courage it takes to report alleged incidents of cruelty to and abuse of our equine partners. We understand and share your frustration that, in many instances, we could not act on incidents that occurred outside of the competition environment.”

The current revisions to GR838 include replacing “cruelty to and abuse of a horse” with “unethical treatment of a horse” to “more accurately reflect US Equestrian’s role as guardian of both sport and our horses.”

This revision will also see the rule applied anywhere unethical treatment is reported, regardless of whether it occurred at a USEF-licensed or endorsed competition. The rule does not give US Equestrian free rein to enter a person’s property unannounced.

“Rather, we will continue to rely on you to report incidents of unethical treatment of the horse,” the press release states. “Once a report is received, US Equestrian will work diligently to interview witnesses with personal knowledge and authenticate any photographs, videos, or other physical evidence related to the alleged incident. This takes time. All allegations are taken seriously. While we are eager to hold wrongdoers accountable, fairness and the integrity of the process dictate that they have the opportunity to be heard and offer evidence in response.”

“The time has come for the US Equestrian community to strengthen our existing leadership on this issue for the betterment of horses and equestrian sport. This also means that each of us must model exemplary behavior at all times. We believe the revisions to GR838, coupled with the existing process and procedures, protect both our horses and our members.”

Liz Halliday Update 9/28: The Next Phase of Recovery Begins

By on Sep 28, 2024 4:10 pm -

Liz Halliday’s team has shared a new update with us today, stating that Liz has been moved to the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago, a specialized physical medicine and rehabilitation research hospital, to continue the next phase of her recovery. Liz sustained a traumatic brain injury in a fall at AECs on August 29.

The latest update reads:

We are thrilled to share that Liz officially started the next phase of her recovery journey this week at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago. This marks an incredible step forward in her recovery, and we couldn’t be more proud of her progress.

Shirley Ryan is renowned as the #1 rehabilitation hospital in the nation, and Liz is now in the hands of an exceptional team of specialists dedicated to empowering her as she moves forward on the path to healing. With Shirley Ryan’s innovative therapies and unwavering support, Liz is working hard every day to conquer new challenges.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible team at UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital. Their exceptional care and dedication during Liz’s stay have been instrumental in her recovery, and we will forever be thankful for their expertise and compassion.

Thank you to everyone who has sent messages, photos, and #LapForLiz videos for her. Your words of encouragement have been a constant source of strength for Liz and her family and friends. We continue to share them with her as she embarks on this next chapter in her healing process.

Thank you for standing by her side every step of the way. We’re looking forward to celebrating each milestone with you as Liz continues to make strides on her road to recovery. Stay tuned for more updates, and keep sending those positive vibes her way. #KeepFightingLiz

With love and thanks, Liz’s Family and Friends

You can continue to follow Liz’s progress with periodic updates on her website here.

On Tap: Preview and How to Follow Stable View Oktoberfest This Weekend

By on Sep 26, 2024 2:30 pm -

Emily Hamel and Corvett. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Coming up this weekend is another major prep for fall 5*/4*-L season with Stable View’s Oktoberfest taking place in Aiken, SC. Oktoberfest runs National levels from Beginner Novice up through Advanced as well as FEI divisions from 2*-S through 4*-S, making it a premier stop for riders at all levels looking to cap off their summer season strong or ramp up for a competitive end of the year.

In the CCI4*-S this weekend, 16 combinations will come forward en route to their respective major fall goals, including pairs heading to Military Boekelo CCIO4*-L, Morven Park’s CCI4*-L, and the Maryland 5 Star.

Featuring on the 4*-S list are Boekelo-bound Phillip Dutton and Possante as well as Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic, both of whom will represent the U.S. on the Boekelo Nations Cup team. Representing Great Britain, Lucienne Bellissimo also brings forward her two top horses, Dyri and Tremanton, as she aims them at the Morven Park CCI4*-L in early October. Arden Wildasin is another rider aiming at Morven Park with Sunday Times as she eyes a 5* move-up potentially next year.

Arden Wildasin and Sunday Times. Photo by Sally Spickard.

This weekend also marks a 4* move-up for Colin Gaffney and Baymax, as well as for Kate Sand and Top Shelf. Emily Beshear‘s Rio de Janeiro, who are coming off back to back 3*-S victories at Virginia Horse Center and Fair Hill, will also step up to the 15-year-old geldings first 4*-S. Sweden’s Jennie Jarnstrom-Dennis also has a younger horse in her move-up era, competing in the 4* with the 10-year-old Splash Dance. Jennie will also compete her 4*-S podium finisher, Flower Girl.

Canada is well-represented by Lindsay Traisnel, who brings forward her stalwart partner Bacyrouge, as well as Katie Malensek, competing with two horses in STX Mex and Landjaeger. Rounding out the entry list are British Olympian Leslie Law and Lady Chatterley, Maryland 5 Star-bound Emily Hamel and Corvett, and Phillip Dutton with a second ride in Azure.

You can view the full entry list here.

Katie Malensek and Landjaeger. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Horse & Country will be providing a live stream from show jumping tomorrow (Friday), which for the 4*-S begins at 1:18 p.m. on 9/27. The FEI divisions will conclude competition on Saturday with cross country. We’ll have a full report on the 4*-S coming your way on Sunday, and you can also follow along on Stable View’s Instagram for much more from on the ground.

Tailgaiting and a car show? A real neighborhood event at Stable View! Photo by Christine Quinn.

For spectators, there is much to enjoy during your Oktoberfest experience, including VIP opportunities (click here to see what’s still available). The Aiken Horsepower Association’s Annual Car Show will also be on site adjacent to the Pavilion featuring fast cars and hot rods along with knowledgeable car owners to chat about their wheels. You can also enjoy a bustling Vendor Row for all your shopping needs, and then end the day with friends at the Graze & Gaze happy hour sponsored by StableFeed from 5 pm-7 pm! The Graze & Gaze is hosted downstairs in the Pavilion at Ollie’s Pub. Complimentary food and beverages (beer, wine, non-alcoholic options) for VIP guests, competitors, and families.

Want to lend a helping hand? There are still a handful of volunteer spots open for the taking. Snacks and food are provided to volunteers, and you can also grab a free schooling pass for your time. Click here to view the current open opportunities.

Stable View Oktoberfest 2/3/4* & H.T. (SC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Lara de Liedekerke Meier’s Hermione d’Arville Passes Away in Stables at Lignieres

By on Sep 26, 2024 12:31 pm -

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Hermione d’Arville. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We are incredibly sad to report that Hermione d’Arville, Lara de Liedekerke Meier’s Pratoni and European Championships partner who also finished seventh individually at CHIO Aachen this summer, has passed away at Lignieres (France). The event reported that the 11-year-old mare passed suddenly in the stables and despite immediate intervention of the on-site veterinary team could not be saved.

We are sending Lara and her team all of our love and support in the wake of this devastating loss. Fly high, Hermione.

Tamie Smith: Navigating Highs and Lows and Mai Baum’s Swan Song

By on Sep 24, 2024 10:22 am -

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum are the first U.S. leaders of LRK3DE going into show jumping since 2008, when Becky Holder held the lead after cross country. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

At the end of April last year, Tamie Smith was on top of the world. She’d just won her first CCI5* — and became the first U.S. rider to win Defender Kentucky since 2008 (Phillip Dutton) — with the Ahearn family’s striking black gelding, Mai Baum. She had a string of other horses ready to step up to or competing at the 4* and 5* levels of the sport. The Paris Olympics loomed large, and fresh off claiming a team silver at World Championships in 2022, the horizon was bright for the hottest pair in the U.S. and, arguably, the world.

In the months since then, a series of unfortunate events transpired, leaving Tamie in their wake to navigate the infamous ups and downs that is equestrian sports.

In June of 2023, Tamie Smith competed the Guariglia family’s Solaguayre California at Longines Luhmühlen CCI5* in Germany. After injuring her knee while jumping through the first water complex on cross country, California was transported to a local equine hospital, where upon commencement of surgery to the injury it was discovered that the damage was far more extensive than originally thought. The difficult decision was made to euthanize the Argentinian mare.

Ruth Bley’s Danito was another horse Tamie had grand plans for at the top levels, slotted to be one of three strong contenders for an Olympic spot in 2024. But Danito had dealt with some niggling injuries along the way, and his return to the top levels in 2023 was abbreviated.

Tamie Smith and Solaguayre California. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

At the outset of 2024, Mai Baum was pegged by many as a virtual shoo-in for the U.S. Olympic team, having been meticulously prepped and bubble-wrapped as his final selection trial, the Lexington Kentucky CCI4*-S in April, approached. Just before he was to hop on a plane to join Tamie in Kentucky, Mai Baum slipped on the ground (without a rider) and tweaked himself just enough to warrant not pushing him to fly across the country and compete. Though the Olympics weren’t fully off the table yet, it was certainly not ideal timing with so much at stake.

Then, at Tryon in May of this year, Tamie took a hard fall with Kynan on cross country and opted to withdraw her other rides that weekend. When she returned from Tryon, her goal was to focus her efforts on Mai Baum and getting him to Stable View for the upcoming Mandatory Outing for Paris. He had been cleared by vets from his tweak injury, but Tamie felt some conflict within herself.

“We had sent him for some advanced imagery and the team was basically like, “We’re ok, you need to get home and ride your horse. So Kaylawna started legging him up a couple weeks before we got home, which also happened to be the week he was getting vetted for the team. I got home and he looked like he’d been sitting on the couch watching Netflix for a year. He was huge! And the team was fantastic about giving us a shot, and his team vetting went well. We planned to bring him to the Mandatory Outing.”

“Then I woke up the next morning and they hadn’t announced the team yet; I think that was coming at the end of the week,” Tamie continued. “And I was just like, ‘I can’t do this.’ I would never do this to any horse. I would never have a horse have five weeks off, be back for two weeks and then fly to a Mandatory Outing and go around an Advanced. There was just something in me that said, ‘you would never do that.'”

With that, Tamie’s Olympic bid ended. On top of that, she was down two horses at the level, one having been lost in such a devastating manner.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“I will say, after Tryon, I did some reflecting,” Tamie said. “I think all of us in eventing tend to accept that the sport is tough and you’re going to get knocked down. It’s not a matter of ‘if’, it’s a matter of ‘when’. When you’re at the top of anything, there are always these ebb and flow periods, but after Tryon I finally was just like, ‘do I need to reevaluate? Why is this happening?'”

Tamie decided she needed to take a step back, focus on reconnecting with her horses. While she was navigating this mental hurdle, Tamie also began to see the cumulative effects not just of her hard work, but of the support team she has built around herself over time.

Thanks to the support of the Guariglia and Duda families, as well as the ongoing support of the Ahearn family and countless others, Tamie acquired a slew of up and coming horses, one of which took her breath away in a way she didn’t expect.

“We were looking for a mare and we just hadn’t been able to find the right one,” Tamie recalled. “[Julianne Guariglia and I] had just purchased one and were in a place where we thought worst case, she could be a resale project. Then Sara Mittleider called me and said, ‘I know this is odd timing, but I just saw this horse and she looks exactly like [Solaguayre Calfornia] and I think you should try her.'”

The mare was in Germany, and when Tamie walked into the barn to try her, she stopped in her tracks. She was California’s complete doppelgänger. The mare, Kareena K, went on to join Tamie’s string and joins a handful of others that she describes as “exuding talent and rideability”.

“[The support] was something I couldn’t have ever even imagined,” Tamie said. “But it was really awesome. It was just all of these events that kind of came forward and the families have been so unbelievably supportive.”

Tamie Smith and Kareena K. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

As for Mai Baum, it’s all systems go for one last CCI5* hurrah at the MARS Maryland 5 Star in October. At 18 this year, Paris was always intended to be his swan song, but after those plans went off script, the Maryland 5 Star became the “plan B”, and an appropriate one at that, with it being Ian Stark’s final course ahead of his retirement. “Over the last year and a half, Ian’s kind of been my guy,” Tamie explained. “And I think it’s just kind of really fitting that it’s pretty much Ian’s very last course. I love Ian as a designer and I think Maryland’s track is absolutely beautiful, and it suits [Mai Baum]; it’s a very open, galloping, bold track. So we thought, ‘let’s try to put Paris behind us and try to go America’s other five-star.'”

“I knew he had another big competition in him, and he deserves to have a big send-off,” Tamie said. “We were really trying to get him to the Olympics, and really this year he had felt better than ever. For me, with horses you look at how easy or difficult it is for them. I don’t want Lexus to compete and for there to be an obvious decline in his performance and for everyone to go, ‘well, he’s old now’. I don’t think any of us in this country thought that horse was a five-star horse initially, let alone to do five or six of them. He owes us absolutely nothing, and if there’s a day that he comes out of his stall and says I don’t want to do this, I’ll pull the plug immediately.”

“There is something to be said for retiring a horse while they are at the top of the sport,” she continued. “He won’t fully retire, but the Ahearns and I have talked about it and maybe Alex [Ahearn, Mai Baum’s original rider who gave the reins over to Tamie after competing him through the now-3* level] will ride him a little, or I’ve always wanted to do some hunter derbies!”

Alex Ahearn and Mai Baum at AECs in 2014. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Truly, this is a horse that has opened many doors for his owners and for Tamie herself, and despite the fact he may have been an Olympic medalist if given the chance, both Tamie and the Ahearn family have made it their priority to always put him first — and to see the bigger picture.

And with Liz Halliday, who would eventually step up to an Olympic team spot after the withdrawal of Will Coleman’s horses, currently fighting her way back from a traumatic brain injury sustained at the AECs in August, Tamie says her friend and fellow competitor has been constantly on her mind.

“I really do feel things are meant to be,” Tamie said. “And ultimately I was just reflecting about this the other day and I went ‘gosh, if Lexus had been fine, Liz may not have gone to [Paris],’ and I would trade her a million chances. God forbid, if she didn’t get another chance, then that had some meaning, I hope. Then by all means, it was worth it.”

Video Break: Take a Quick Tour of the New Barns at Kentucky Horse Park

By on Sep 22, 2024 10:00 am -

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Derek Braun (@derekabraun)

Split Rock Jumping Tour’s Derek Braun took to Instagram this week for an impromptu tour of the newly-constructed barns at the Kentucky Horse Park. While the Horse Park is of course used for competitions across disciplines, we’ll be especially keen to see some 4* and 5* horses stabled here next year for Defender Kentucky. Take a peek and get excited! Construction continues with plans to eventually redo all of the barns currently standing in the stabling area.

Liz Halliday Update 9/21: Out of the ICU

By on Sep 21, 2024 3:33 pm -

Photo by Shelby Allen.

Liz Halliday’s team has shared a new update on her status. Liz fell on cross country at the AECs on August 29 and has been on the road to recovery from a traumatic brain injury.

Further updates can be found on Liz’s website here.

“We are grateful to share that Liz has been moved out of the ICU and is making steady improvements as she prepares to transition to inpatient rehab to begin her therapy. The road to recovery from a severe traumatic brain injury is long, but Liz is showing her incredible strength and resilience every day.

We want to extend our deepest thanks to everyone who has reached out with messages of support and encouragement. Each note, photo, and video has brought immense comfort to Liz and her family and friends. We continue to read every message to her and show her the love pouring in from around the world.

This weekend, we invite you to take a #LapforLiz and hug your two- and four-legged loved ones a little tighter. Let’s keep the positive energy and support flowing as Liz takes on this next phase of her recovery. Your support means the world to us.

Thank you for being with us on this journey. Together, we’re all helping Liz reach each new milestone. #KeepFightingLiz”

[More Updates on Liz Halliday]

 

Grand Slam of Eventing Organizers Seek New Series Title Sponsor

By on Sep 19, 2024 12:17 pm -

Pippa Funnell and Primmore’s Pride. Photo by Michelle Dunn.

For the first time in 23 years, the coveted Grand Slam of Eventing title is open for title sponsorship.

The award, which has been sponsored by Rolex since its inception in 1999, has been earned just two times in its existence. The challenge of winning, in succession, the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, MARS Badminton and Defender Burghley is truly a pinnacle of the sport. Pippa Funnell (2003) and Michael Jung (2016) are the only two riders to achieve this goal and win the $350,000 prize that coms along with it.

Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Many thanks to Rolex for their years of support of this award and equestrian sports as a whole. The organizers of Grand Slam events are now seeking a new title partner. Interested parties can contact James Wolf of Wolf Sports Group by emailing [email protected].

Video Break: Elisa Wallace and Zephyr’s Winning Mustang Classic Freestyle

By on Sep 16, 2024 12:30 pm -

Elisa Wallace took home another mustang achievement this weekend as she came best of the bunch in the English Mustang Classic, a first-of-its-kind competition hosted at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Elisa won this competition with Zephyr, a young mustang who only came off of federal ground as a wild horse in February of this year. You can look back on Zephyr’s training progression on Elisa’s YouTube channel here.

The Mustang Classic competition consisted of a Training level dressage test, a jumping round with show jumps and cross country fences, and a finale of a freestyle performance (which for this pair was Willy Wonka themed) for the top 12 competitors.

Sophie Click and Tarantino 54 Jump to Aspen Farms Advanced Championship Lead

By on Sep 15, 2024 11:53 am -

Sophie Click and Tarantino 54. Photo by Ashley Kemp Photography.

The second day of competition at Aspen Farms Horse Trials and United States Eventing Association’s (USEA) Area VII Championships featured cross-country and show jumping. The Championship, Advanced, and Intermediate divisions navigated the cross-country courses designed by Morgan Rowsell.

In the Advanced division, Sophie Click and Tarantino 54 jumped clear with 11.2 time penalties to move up fr0m third to first.

“The course rode super well,” said Click after cross-country. “Quinn was amazing. In the spring we had a little oopsies here at Aspen Farms on cross-country, and we came out today and conquered that. I’m super happy with that.”

Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14, owned by Annika Asling, added 20 penalties at the Toklat Originals Water Complex which dropped them from first to second.

The Advanced division will show jump first at 8 a.m. in the sand ring on Sunday. Cash prizes are at stake for the top finishers, sponsored by Tin Men Supply.

Marc Grandia and GHS Calexico. Photo by Ashley Kemp Photography.

In the USEA Area VII Open Intermediate Championship, Marc Grandia and GHS Calexico, owned by Calexico Syndicate LLC, and Devin Robel and Gillou are tied for first on the overnight leaderboard.

“I had a blast,” said Grandia after his clear jumping effort cross-country. “It was a lot of fun out there. The conditions were absolutely perfect with the rain we’ve had, and the weather.”

Devin Robel was happy with the cross-country performance from her Warmblood gelding, Gillou. She has owned Gillou since he was a yearling, produced him herself, and most recently competed in Florida over this past winter with great success at the Intermediate level. Gillou is currently ranked third in Intermediate in the nation.

“I had a plan,” Robel said about her cross-country ride. “I’ve been trying to teach him to jump more out of stride. We had a lot of very nice fences, and we had some where we need to keep working on that. But overall, he was ‘game on.’ The course was great.”

Robel feels good going into show jumping Sunday: “He’s a super jumper. When I’m show jumping regularly, show jumping is great for us. But it has been hard to keep him going where we live in Oregon. Our goal tomorrow is to ride the lines well. I love Chris Barnard’s courses. He’ll jump clean!”

In the Open Intermediate division, Alyssa Schaefer and Fuego maintained their lead by jumping clear cross-country and running faster than their counterparts. All riders in the division added time penalties. Audrey Morrissey and Lord Limon are in second, and Sara Zulyniak and Ulterra Alaris, owned Nicolas Helayel, are in third.

In the large USEA Area VII Preliminary Championship, Chloe Kischuk and Dassett Endeavour switched places with Brooke Phillips and JL’s Dartagnan after cross-country to take the lead. Sara Sellmer and JB Virgin Electric, owned by Jil Walton, are third.

“The course rode so well,” said Kischuk. “When I walked the course it looked like it was going to ride well–you always hope that will be the case–and it was so perfect to ride.”

Looking ahead to show jumping, Kischuk shared: “He’s been show jumping so well at home. We’ve really been working on it. I’m excited to see how it pays off.”

In USEA Area VII Training Amateur Championship, Reese Blinks and her Hanoverian gelding, Lowmax, jumped clear to take over the lead. Lorilee Hanson and Mosaïque are second.

“The course designer did a great job using the terrain to create a course that was challenging, but still flowed and was appropriate for the level,” said Blinks. “Aspen does a great job with their footing, and the jumps are so beautiful. All this came together to provide a fun track for Championships. The double down Arion banks were really fun. My horse read the course very well.”

Blinks is hoping to finish this first year competing with her horse strong: “We’ve been pretty consistent throughout the year at Training level. He’s still a younger horse, and I’ve only had him about a year, so we are still getting to know each other. He’s a really cool horse. I’m hoping to have a fun time and a good round tomorrow.”

The overnight leaders in the USEA Area VII Novice Amateur Championship are Kimberly Johnson and her 8-year-old rescue mare Ascendance. They qualified for Championships at Young Rider Benefit Horse Trials.

“I really loved the course today,” said Blinks. “Lots of directional changes; it was a fun challenge. She’s a good horse. She’s very athletic. I have all the confidence in her. She saves me when I need saving, and I guide her when she needs some guidance. We’re a fun team.”

In USEA Area VII Junior Training Championship, Dakota McGill and her Irish Sporthorse, NSC Mettaphor, held their lead. Alexis Johnson and Encore are second, and Courtney Brandt and One True King are third.

“It felt smooth,” said McGill of her cross-country ride. “I’m really gaining speed now. I’m getting used to riding faster. I’m hoping to move up to Prelim. I’ve been working on being soft and letting him figure it out–trusting him. Show jumping is a strong phase for him. He really likes it. Tomorrow I just need to be quiet and push him on; he will be good!”

In the highly competitive USEA Area VII Open Novice Championship division, Sara Sellmer and Courious George, owned by Samantha Quinn, emerged on top of the leaderboard after a double clear cross-country ride to hold their dressage score of 27.5. Anna Stein and Our Theodore, owned by Lisa Escobar, are second on 27.8. Marc Grandia and Obligado VD Watermolen, owned by Melissa Jaten, went just one second over time to move from tied first to third. The top ten pairs in the division are all within one rail of the leader.

“In the warm-up Marc [Grandia] and I were having fun razzing each other,” said Sellmer, referring to their tie after dressage. “He went slow trying to get as close as possible to the optimum time and put the pressure on me. I was watching him and I thought he was so brave! I thought for sure he got it, so I went too fast! I knew I had too much time at the last fence. But at the end Marc’s mom let me know he went one second over, so we broke the tie. George was lovely on course; he’s a really honest ‘blue collar’ boy. A lot people might pass him over, but he wins everything. I’m building him for my friend Sam. He’s going to be her Novice packer champ, and he’s turning out to be all those things! He’s a lovely horse.”

In the USEA Area VII Junior Beginner Novice Championships, Addisyn and her Dutch Warmblood gelding Parahoniak ADR’s Fausto are first, Carsyn Ritter and MR. CURIOSITY are second, and Rita Caiado and Makin It Big In Hollywood are third.

“It was amazing,” Parahoniak shared after her cross-country ride. “It was really fun. I’m excited for show jumping tomorrow, but it’s a lot of pressure to be in first. Show jumping is not his strongest phase, but he’s usually very good.”

Sunday over $35,000 worth of cash and prizes will be awarded to the the top finishers in the Horse Trials and USEA Area VII Championships thanks to generous show sponsors. In addition, there is an opportunity for an Amateur/Rider to win a free custom Arion saddle in The Arion Challenge. To win, an Amateur Rider and horse combination must have won their Amateur/Rider division at the June Aspen Farms Horse Trials and repeat the win this weekend.

“Super excited to be doing The Arion Challenge for the second year in a row,” said Stacy von Marenholtz of Arion. “We love that it gives Amateur riders the opportunity to win a great prize. It’s a good incentive that is unique from anything anyone else is offering. We’re cheering on all the riders; we hope we have another winner this year!”

Follow along with more show coverage on Aspen Farm’s Facebook Page and on Instagram @AspenFarmsHorseTrials.

Aspen Farms H.T. (WA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Will Coleman and Off the Record Win, an Update on Chin Tonic, and Boekelo-Bound Dan Kreitl at The Fork at Tryon

By on Sep 15, 2024 10:00 am -

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

Will Coleman had his original Paris horse, Off the Record, back in action this week at The Fork at Tryon (NC), moving up from second Saturday on cross country to finish first on a score of 38.5. This run is serving as one of his final preparation competitions ahead of a trip back to France to compete in Les 5 Etoiles de Pau at the end of October.

After opting not to do a spring 5* or other Long format with “Timmy” in anticipation of Paris and then after narrowly missing out on an opportunity to compete at the Olympics, Will selected Pau as his fall destination thinking it will suit the 15-year-old Irish gelding.

“I’ve never been there before, but I think it will be a track that suits Timmy,” Will said. “And he’s getting a little older, so we thought we’d just enjoy him while he’s finding this fun and easy. I just continue to be so impressed with how professional and reliable he is. He really just loves it. It’s amazing to leave the start box on a horse like that. It really does make cross country so fun.”

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

As is typical with these Long format preps, time penalties played a role in the final standings. Will “didn’t go blasting around” and went out with more of a plan to let Timmy set his own pace. “He’s just so efficient, so we had a bit of time but on a course like that I think it will be a great set-up for what’s next.”

Will will aim Diabolo at the Maryland 5 Star before hopping a plane to meet Off the Record (Arkansas VDL – Drumagoland Bay, by Ard Ohio), who is owned by The Off the Record Syndicate, in France for Pau at the end of the month.

He also gave us an update on Chin Tonic HS, who was sidelined earlier this year after a mild check ligament injury caused some swelling in the carpal sheath. That swelling prompted Will to withdraw “Chin” from the Lexington 4*-S and, subsequently, from Olympic consideration. “The only way we could determine if the tendon was involved was through an arthroscopy,” he explained. “And it was really just the irritation had caused the swelling, so he had a very mild surgery on that and now he’s back in work.” We can anticipate a return to competition in 2025 for Chin Tonic, who is owned by Hyperion Stud.

Dan Kreitl and Carmango. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Dan Kreitl has his Aachen partner, Kay Dixon’s Carmango (Chirivell – Taramanga, by Templer GL xx), back in action at the 4* level this summer, finishing second today with a score of 44.6 with 9.6 time penalties added on cross country.

“Fritz” picked up mild strain in a front tendon following Aachen last year, and while he stayed in dressage work during his downtime, Dan took the gas off the pedal in terms of jumping and competing. This, as well as the effects of the accumulation of fitness that horses build over time, has resulted in the 11-year-old Westphalian gelding feeling “better than ever”.

“The fitness, he’s so much stronger,” Dan explained. “We’ve learned more how to manage him well, and that means not running quite as often. It was really nice to feel like he could go awhile without competing and still show up and be ready to go.”

Of course, with this horse being the only horse Dan has going at the Advanced level at the moment (though he does have a group of exciting young ones moving up the ranks now), he admits that the repetition has always been useful for him. “My confidence comes from repetition, so if I could show him every weekend that would be great, but that just wouldn’t work with the horse, my work, my family. So I just try to keep my cool, and I do think I’m getting mentally better and I’ve learned that the harder I try, the worse I do!”

Dan Kreitl and Carmango. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Dan was selected as an alternate for the U.S. Nations Cup team heading to Boekelo in October, but he’d planned to go as an individual regardless of team selection. After all, he has an unused Dutta Corp. flight grant still waiting its usage after winning the Tryon CCI4*-L in 2022!

To that end, Dan used this final prep run to ensure he was riding in a similar manner to how he will need to in the Netherlands. “Part of me wanted to make the time [today], but I wanted to prioritize giving him a good run,” Dan said. “I did ride more direct and aggressive on the turns, trying to make it a little more challenging for him because I can imagine Boekelo will have that same feel of intensity.”

Dan will focus on fine-tuning his dressage and show jumping between now and early October, when he’ll fly to meet Carmango in Europe.

Phillip Dutton and Jewelent. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Phillip Dutton earned the third spot on the leaderboard for his birthday (which was on Friday) with the Jewelent Group’s Jewelent (Valent – Bellaney Jewel, by Roselier), finishing on a score of 46.9. This 12-year-old Irish gelding will be aiming for a fall Long format and seeking a first 4*-L completion since joining Phillip’s string from Ireland at the end of the 2023 season.

Boyd Martin had his Paris partner, Fedarman B, back in action in the Advanced division. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Here’s a look at the remainder of the winners crowned across divisions on Saturday at The Fork at Tryon:

CCI3*-S: Will Coleman and Cold Red Rum (28.2)
CCI2*-L: Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Sebastian (29.3)
CCI2*-S: Dan Kreitl and Odyssey (38.7)
CCI1*-S: Anna Rose Hutcheson and F For Fortune (36.4)
Advanced: Boyd Martin and On Cue (56.8)
Open Intermediate: Gabby Dickerson and Top Carrera (35.7)
Open Prelim: Ashley Adams and Global Halycon (29.8)
Prelim Rider: Logan Harris and Omnipotent (29.0)
Modified: Caitlin Harms and LCC King Julian (28.3)

The Fork at Tryon (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Liz Halliday Update 9/12 and 9/13: The Best Days Yet

By on Sep 14, 2024 9:30 am -

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We’re catching you up on the two latest updates from Liz Halliday’s team. Liz remains in the ICU at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, KY after suffering a traumatic brain injury in a fall on cross country at AECs on August 29.

Here are the two updates Liz’s team has shared over the last couple of days:

September 12:

We are excited to report Liz made several victories today! 

This morning, Liz SMILED at Mark. Then, this afternoon, she actively reached for Debby, her mom’s hand, and smiled again.
Additionally, she’s regaining use of her right hand and opening both eyes. Liz is still mostly tracking with just her left eye. Her fever has abated, and the nurses and attending doctor are extremely happy with her progress.
She’s still a few days from leaving the ICU, but the trends are all positive.
Thank you to all who are participating in the #LapforLiz . The Foxfire Eventing Team is taking their first lap tonight at 7 pm EST! Your notes and pictures have truly helped give Liz the #horsepower she needs to get through this. Remember to tag us in your lap, whether on horseback or around your block on foot, and we will show all of the photos and videos to Liz.
With love and thanks, Liz’s Family and Friends
September 13:
Today was another very good day for Liz, with her vitals consistently stable.
The most significant moment of the day was when a visitor, the Baugh Family, came to visit. As they were leaving, Liz waved to them goodbye! After a moment, Chris joked, “What, I don’t get a wave?” She did her best to try to smile & nearly laugh.
This was our most optimistic day yet.
We have been showing Liz all of the #LapforLiz photos and videos. Thank you to Team Foxfire Eventing for organizing this fantastic event. We are looking forward to all of the continued #LapsforLiz
We cannot thank you all enough for the love and support you continue to show Liz. Our next update will be on Monday, September 16th. In the meantime, we will continue to show Liz all of your #LapsforLiz.
With love and thanks,
Liz’s Family and Friends
You can continue to follow along with Liz on her website here.

Below are some of your posts for #LapForLiz – keep them coming!

Ride the Defender Burghley Cross Country with Tom McEwen and CHF Cooliser

By on Sep 12, 2024 2:37 pm -

Here’s one you won’t want to miss! Tom McEwen piloted the 14-year-old Irish mare, CHF Cooliser (Womanizer – Super Spring, by Ramiro B), to a clear round at Defender Burghley last weekend. Though Tom withdrew the mare before show jumping, citing the fact that the mare was not 100% right and opting not to push her for a completion, this round was definitively one of the best of the day.

Be sure to watch with sound on!

Catch up with the rest of our Defender Burghley coverage, which was supported by Kentucky Performance Products, here.