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Sally Spickard
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Sally Spickard

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About Sally Spickard

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

Latest Articles Written

Weekend Winners: Full Gallop, Ocala Winter I, Pine Top, Poplar Valentine’s Day, Copper Meadows Sun Series

By on Feb 14, 2022 11:00 am -

Busy eventing weekends are what dreams are made of! Nearly 700 horses took to the start box over the weekend at Florida Horse Park, and with busy events running in South Carolina and Georgia we were treated to a full-send weekend once again.

Our Unofficial Low Score Award winners this weekend are Liz Halliday-Sharp and Emilie Mudd’s Quite Nice 11, who won their Preliminary division at Ocala I on a final score of 20.8.

Take a look at the rest of this weekend’s winners below, and keep scrolling for some snippets from schooling events at Poplar Place and Copper Meadows!

Full Gallop Farm February I H.T. (Aiken, Sc.): [Website] [Live Scores]

Preliminary: Brooke Burchianti and Cooley Space Grey (49.3)
Training: Meg Bowers and L’Avventura (29.2)
Novice: Barbara Selmayr and Just My Style (25.8)
Training/Novice: Meaghan Marinovich-Burdick and HSH Bitcoin (32.7)
Beginner Novice: Julia Paratore and Hanleen McFly (25.2)
Starter: AJ Carter and Texas Avalanche (23.2)

Ocala Winter I H.T. (Ocala, Fl.): [Website] [Results]

Advanced/Intermediate A: Woods Baughman and C’est La Vie 135 (28.0)
Advanced/Intermediate B: Colleen Loach and FE Golden Eye (33.9)
Intermediate Rider: Sydney Rovira and Oakdale (39.6)
Open Intermediate A: Kendal Lehari and Audacious (29.0)
Open Intermediate B: Kurt Martin and D.A. Lifetime (35.6)
Open Intermediate – Jackpot: Jennie Brannigan and Twilightslastgleam (23.0)
Open Preliminary One Day A: Alex O’Neal and Redtail Achiever (33.2)
Open Preliminary One Day B: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Quite Nice 11 (20.8)
Open Preliminary A: Bethany Hutchins-Kristen and Geluk HVF (26.7)
Open Preliminary B: Maxine Preston and Wants To Be Cooley (33.3)
Open Preliminary Jackpot: Buck Davidson and Victor B Z (21.8)
Preliminary Horse: Buck Davidson and Stracathro Solitary Minstral (28.4)
Preliminary Rider A: Sophie Miller and Quarlotta C (30.2)
Preliminary Rider B: Rebecca Roth and Chapter Two (26.1)
Modified Open A: Ainsley Hagen and Risque S (26.7)
Modified Open B: Michelle Mercier and Tullibards Chance Taken (21.8)
Modified Rider A: Lydia Bradshaw and Cassio’s Picasso (26.1)
Modified Rider B: Katherine Hyndman and Sir Oberon (33.3)
Open Modified One Day A: Hugh Wrigley and FE Money Made (24.3)
Open Modified One Day B: Maya Black and FE Chardonnay (26.5)
Jr. Training: Chloe Paddack and Hawthornstud Fortunate Love (26.4)
Open Training One Day A: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Sky Watch (25.3)
Open Training One Day B: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Newmarket Cooley (24.7)
Open Training A: Brodie Seabrook and Maserati (30.8)
Open Training B: Sophia Middlebrook and Monbeg Odyssey (29.1)
Sr. Training Rider A: Sophie Ann Stremple and Street Fighting (32.6)
Sr. Training Rider B: Tanya Miller and Churros (32.1)
Training Horse A: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Maybach (28.1)
Training Horse B: Megan Loughnane and Lynton (22.5)
Jr. Novice: Ava Davis and Timothy (27.5)
Novice Horse A: Clayton Fredericks and FE Velvet Underground (23.3)
Novice Horse B: Hannah Sue Burnett and “J” (23.6)
Open Novice A: Jimmie Schramm and Castletown Cooley (28.1)
Open Novice B: Molly McMillen and Lily (27.2)
Open Novice C: Joe Meyer and Crugraff (27.5)
Open Novice Jackpot: Sarah Matuszewski-Sullivan (26.7)
Sr. Novice Rider A: Jenna Alland and Carro de la Leche (26.7)
Sr. Novice Rider B: Alyssa Cairo and Paddington (28.9)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Emma Suess and HVF On Point (23.8)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Jaeli Uselding and My Fair Prince (24.4)
Open Beginner Novice A: Keith Robinson and Magnolia (21.5)
Open Beginner Novice B: Charlotte Collier and Celtic King (26.5)

Pine Top Intermediate H.T. (Thomson, Ga.): [Website] [Results]

Advanced/Intermediate: Mia Petersen and Fernhill Royale (48.5)
Intermediate Rider: Lisa Borgia and Silmarillion (35.4)
Open Intermediate A: Tim Bourke and Quality Obsession (31.8)
Open Intermediate B: Tim Bourke and Lennard (28.2)
Open Preliminary A: Jenny Caras and Sommersby (29.6)
Open Preliminary B: Emily Beshear and Rio De Janeiro (23.4)
Open Preliminary C: Emily Beshear and Cayr Della Caccia (26.1)
Preliminary Rider: Maddie Hale and Cinzano 87 (45.4)
Modified Open A: Erin Kanara and Morning Glory SE (30.5)
Modified Open B: Emily Beshear and Plumpjack (26.8)
Modified Rider: Anna Scoggins and Pretty Like Me (32.5)
Jr. Training: Breeana Robinette and Cape Kimberly (26.9)
Open Training A: Caitlin Silliman and Excel Star Vero Amore (28.1)
Open Training B: Darci Phelps and Sandro Street (23.3)
Sr. Training Rider: Keyanna Farken and Fernhill Saulsford Nazar (32.2)
Training/Novice: Angelika Beutel and Canaday Z (29.4)
Jr. Novice: Catherine Kelly and Cooley Meridian (28.3)
Open Novice A: Maddie Lichten and RF Luminati (24.7)
Open Novice B: Caroline Honeycutt and Beall Spring Seahawk (24.2)
Sr. Novice Rider: Claudia Schultze and Windchase Lionstar (44.5)

Looking to the schooling shows that ran this week, let’s check in on Instagram from Copper Meadows and Poplar Place:

Mark Todd Under Investigation After Viral Video from Clinic

By on Feb 14, 2022 9:00 am -

Sir Mark Todd and McClaren at the World Equestrian Games in 2018. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Video footage taken at a clinic with New Zealand’s Mark Todd approximately two years ago made waves online this weekend as the video shows the Olympic gold medalist repeatedly whipping a horse with a tree branch at a water question.

The video and its implications were quickly met with furor online, and Mark Todd has since issued a formal apology for the behavior shown. The British Horseracing Authority (the former eventer now trains racehorses, basing out of Wiltshire, UK) has also launched an investigation into the matter, stating:

“The footage seen this weekend of Sir Mark Todd hitting a horse with a branch has rightly caused anger and upset within the equestrian community and beyond. His behaviour, for which he has apologised, fell a long way short of the standards of care we expect of licensed individuals and that we know is provided to the overwhelming majority of horses in training in Britain every day. The BHA is looking into the incident.”

Mark Todd issued a statement addressing the incident:

“I wholeheartedly apologise to the horse and all involved for my actions in this video clip. One of the main things I preach is about establishing a mutual respect between horse and rider and that patience and kindness is the best way to get results. I believe this is one of the main attributes along with a great empathy with animals that has enabled me to have a long and successful career in eventing. I am very disappointed in myself that I did not adhere to that in this case.”

Several major sponsors of Mark Todd and equestrian sport have made statements regarding pending investigations, including Land Rover UK.

This is a developing story.

Update – February 14, 5:15 p.m ET: Horse & Hound reports that Mark Todd voluntarily resigned from his post as patron of World Horse Welfare in the aftermath of the video. They also report that British Eventing has acknowledged their awareness of the incident, quoting “We are disappointed at the content and would like to stress that we view equine welfare as paramount to everything we do and that we expect our members, along with the wider equestrian community, to uphold the same values.”

Preview the Entries for the $50,000 Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field

By on Feb 12, 2022 10:00 am -

Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration, winners of the Retired Racehorse Project Highpoint Thoroughbred Award at the 2021 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing, Bruce’s Field, Aiken, SC. Photo by Chris Quinn.

It’s nearly time for the popular $50,000 Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field, happening March 4 and 5 at the Aiken Horse Park in South Carolina. Each year, riders are invited to compete with their four- and five-star partners in an event that’s both exciting and unique, showcasing all phases of eventing in a condensed format.

This year’s Grand-Prix Eventing will be live streamed on Horse & Country, and you can view the full schedule and more details here.

We’ll see a final entry list closer to the event itself, but for now we’ve got a preview of who’s accepted their invitations so far:

  • Alex Baugh (I Spye)
  • Hannah Sue Burnett (Lukeswell)
  • Amanda Beale Clement (Carlson 119)
  • Nilson Moriera da Silva (Magnum’s Martini)
  • Buck Davidson (Carlevo, Jak My Style, Erroll Gobey)
  • Phillip Dutton (Z, Quasi Cool, Sea of Clouds)
  • Sydney Elliott (QC Diamantaire)
  • Jules Ennis (Cooley O)
  • Lisa Marie Fergusson (Honor Me)
  • William Fox Pitt (Rock Phantom)
  • Clayton Fredericks (TBD)
  • Ariel Grald (Leamore Master Plan)
  • Emily Hamel (Corvett)
  • Lillian Heard (LCC Barnaby)
  • Allie Knowles (Morswood, Ms Poppins)
  • Boyd Martin (Tsetserleg, On Cue, Fedarman B)
  • Missy Miller (Quinn)
  • Sara Murphy (Rubens d’Yseiux)
  • Doug Payne (Vandiver, Quantum Leap, Starr Witness)
  • Mike Pendleton (Steady Eddie)
  • Colleen Rutledge (Covert Rights)
  • Jimmie Schramm (Eclaire)
  • Caitlin Silliman (Ally KGO)
  • Sharon White (Cooley On Show, Claus 63)

This event will be open to spectators, so if you’re in the area it’s a great source of entertainment! Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

Ride Smarter to Ride Better: Four Days with Bettina Hoy

By on Feb 10, 2022 1:00 pm -

Bettina supervises Sharon White and Cooley On Show on jump day. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Spending a week in Florida last month lined up beautifully as my trip happened to align with a Bettina Hoy clinic at Mardanza Farms. I was headed south to do some freelance work, and Sharon White was gracious enough to host me – which meant I was front and center to learn from Bettina for the first part of the week.

Bettina Hoy certainly needs no introduction, but allow me to wax for just a bit. A three-time Olympian for Germany, Bettina made history in 2004 when she earned the gold medal as the first woman to top the podium in eventing. While some ill-timed controversy would sadly reverse this result, the fact remains that Bettina was the best that weekend and also has multiple other accolades adorning her name, including a European Championship gold, two WEG medals, and two five-star wins with her famous partner Ringwood Cockatoo.

Now spending her time primarily in the dressage ring and traveling the world as a coach, Bettina shares the wisdom she’s accumulated through her career, doing so in a delightfully engaging manner that somehow also makes you want to become her best friend.

For as much as we might expect a top-level clinician to get technical with their exercises, Bettina stayed refreshingly basic. She primarily taught a variety of professional riders – and one pro Western dressage rider! – on experienced horses, but the exercises remained similar across the board.

Resting at the core of Bettina’s riding and training philosophy is the dressage pyramid of training, a progressive system that creates a balanced and responsive athlete. Through this scale, a horse learns to properly understand the rider’s aids. This, Bettina says, is where everything starts. “A horse can only understand if the rider sits in balance,” she explained. Further, Bettina believes that issues rarely lie in the test movements themselves – rather, trouble in movements can be fixed by going back to the basics and foundation of the horse’s training (and understanding of aids).

Bettina preferred to teach riders on multiple days, with two days of flatwork and one day of jumping. This, she said, allowed her to see progression of both horse and rider – “they’ve had the night to think about everything!” she would laugh before day two’s lessons began – and make any additional adjustments to the concepts she’d taught the day before.

 

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Every combination began over a series of pole questions. Bettina was insistent that each horse be responsive to the rider’s aids – right away – and this became a focal point for the majority of riders she saw. She wanted riders to show more leadership in the saddle. “By taking responsibility and taking charge, it actually helps the horse relax,” she explained. “And when they relax, they get supple and find the bit.”

Bettina worked with riders to supple their horses, getting them to move more from their hind ends and over their backs. Much of this suppling work involved, as Bettina put it, “placing the front end in a way so that the hind end can follow”. Stiffness, she noted, protects the body. Horses that are stiff and/or tense are holding on, and taking this tension down requires patience. She wanted horses to show more “body composure” or awareness of where their body was – many horses’ weaknesses were exposed during this work.

Lea Adams-Blackmore navigates poles on flatwork day. Photo by Sally Spickard.

To help establish a greater sense of body awareness, Bettina slowed things down and had riders do a lot of work at the walk. “Set your ground rules at the walk,” she instructed. “There’s no point going faster until those ground rules are established.” What ground rules, exactly? Responsiveness to aids – does your horse yield to your leg immediately, or is there a delay? Do they respond to suppling and half-halts, or do they dig in and resist?

Just like us, horses are animals of habit. We can use this concept to our advantage in the saddle by establishing better habits and paying attention to details. This requires body awareness of our own, as well as a present mind to be able to feel what’s happening in the moment. “Feel, then act,” Bettina said often. “If you have to react, you are too late.”

On jumping day, once again the exercises stayed small and simple. Bettina worked with placement poles on either side of single verticals and oxers, stringing together small courses that focused more on efficiency of lines than speed or size. She also introduced angles, but only over poles, noting that this was a way to incorporate cross country lines into everyday work without adding stress on the horse’s legs.

“You can be faster without riding faster,” Bettina explained of the importance of choosing good lines. “This doesn’t take as much energy away from the horse. Ride better lines, and ride them at the walk. It’s possible to practice as long as the horse is in front of your leg.”

Bettina works with Olivia Miller over some basic jump exercises. Photo by Sally Spickard.

By the end of each ride, we saw higher quality gaits and better responsiveness (and delivery of) to aids. Bettina expects you to listen and execute, but her genuine excitement when the lightbulb clicks on is contagious. She mixed in tales from her adventures eventing around the world, life lessons learned, and enough jokes to keep us all laughing, and everyone seemed to come away with some valuable new tools.

And it’s not just tools for achieving better scores in the ring – Bettina emphasized that this work also helps horses stay stronger and sounder. A fitness buff herself, Bettina associates correct riding (remember that body composure she spoke often of – that applies to horse and rider!) with sound horses. “Correct riding is not just a means to get a better dressage score but also to keep the horse sound and healthy in whatever we ask them to do,” she explained. “Particularly when we are asking them to run and jump at speed.”

Training horses is a universal language. Photo by Sally Spickard.

A highlight of the week was watching Bettina teach Rachel Ory, a professional who competes in Western dressage and a variety of other disciplines. It was a wonderful experience to watch Bettina teach Rachel and her beautifully trained partner, Jagalicious, demonstrating that partnership with a horse is a universal language. “I have used dressage training as cross training and it has made her stronger and more balanced,” Rachel commented. “It has complemented her reining training from the start.”

Bettina capped off her week with a spin on one of Tom Pierson’s experienced reiners, and then it was off to Maryland for one more clinic before returning to Germany.

Always cool to learn something new in the saddle especially having 19 year old Casey teaching you how to do it!
Thank you Tom Pierson and Rachel Ory for giving me an insight in your work. Absolutely loved it Sharon White
Schockemöhle Sports breeches just looked the part 😊

Posted by Bettina Hoy Eventing on Thursday, January 27, 2022

Auditing a clinic is an invaluable experience, even if you aren’t actively riding. Bettina’s clinic would be one of my favorites on record, and should you ever find yourself with the chance to ride with her or audit a clinic, seize it!

Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Feb 9, 2022 12:01 am -

Now here is a cool opportunity just waiting to be seized! Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. Equestrian and Therapeutic Center has received funding from the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving to provide full scholarships to 20 BIPOC mental health professionals as well as MSW (Masters in Social Work) and BSW (Bachelor’s in Social Work) students. The grant will also provide full scholarships to 15 BIPOC equine specialists. Here is some more information from EHI:

“Ebony Horsewomen, Inc’s model is unique because it addresses cultural differences and diverse demographics. The goal of our training program is to help form and strengthen collaborative relationships with local BIPOC-led clinical care practices, professional associations, and educational institutions for BIPOC mental health students and practitioners. This is a prime opportunity for those in the mental health and equestrian world looking to help heal and empower those in underserved communities.”

For detailed info, an application, and a class schedule, visit this link.

Black History Bit of the Day:

Did you know that the first jockey to win the Kentucky Derby was Black? Learn more about Oliver Lewis, who won the Derby aboard Aristedes:

U.S. Weekend Preview

Full Gallop Farm February I H.T. (Aiken, Sc.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Ocala Winter I H.T. (Ocala, Fl.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Pine Top Intermediate H.T. (Thomson, Ga.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Wednesday News & Reading

The Omaha Equestrian Foundation has started a donation drive to benefit Karen Cudmore and Heartland Farms, a beloved community fixture and show jumping barn located in Nebraska. The farm suffered a devastating loss of one human life and nine horse lives after a fire ripped through the main barn. Individuals who would like to make a donation can visit Individual – Omaha Equestrian Foundation and click on “To benefit Heartland Farms/Cudmore”.

Are you planning to ride on an IEL or Intercollegiate Eventing Team this year? Rosters for these programs are due February 15 to the USEA — click here to learn more.

I’ve done some of my best learning astride a schoolmaster, and I’m sure you might be able to say the same. Lauren Sprieser mused about the concept of a schoolmaster — and the internet’s thoughts on them — in her latest blog for The Chronicle of the Horse.

Volunteers make the world go ’round! The Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event is just one event that relies on support from volunteers, and their latest blog features a spotlight of the hardworking individuals who make The Best Weekend All Year possible. Read more here.

Have you been playing “EN Wordle”? If not, you’re definitely missing out. We put a horse-y spin on the game no one can get enough of, and you can play today’s puzzle here.

How does Haygain make a difference? We love catching up on Haygain’s blog, which often features case studies and profiles on riders who are seeing massive benefits from steaming hay. The latest case? Meet riding instructor Maryam Edah-Tally of Southern California and how Haygain has impacted her program for the better.

PS: Haygain is running a special deal through Valentine’s Day! Learn more here.

Watch This on H&C+:

Wednesday Video Break

Scenes from Ever So Sweet Scholarship winner Sierra Lesny’s first event ever!

‘EN Wordle’, February 8

By on Feb 8, 2022 10:00 am -

We can’t take credit for creating the very addictive game Wordle, but we can take advantage of the custom Wordle knockoffs floating around the internet to make an eventing fan version! We’ll share new “EN Wordle” games here on EN and on social media throughout the week, so stay tuned!

Try today’s puzzle — and don’t forget to share your results: EN Wordle, February 8

To play previous versions of EN Wordle, click here.

Addicted to Wordle? Try the Eventing Edition!

By on Feb 7, 2022 6:00 pm -

Unless you permanently live under a rock (which I am definitely guilty of these days), you’ve likely heard of and are even more likely to be addicted to the new web game, Wordle.

This simple game, which challenges players to guess one five-letter word each day using a series of hints, has taken the internet by storm and was even recently acquired by the New York Times (how’s that for a pandemic side gig?). We’ve been hankering for more Wordle in our lives, so we’ve taken it upon ourselves to create some horse and eventing-specific Worlde knockoffs just for you!

We’ll share new Eventing Wordle links here on EN throughout each week with eventing and horse-specific words, so keep an eye out here — and be sure to share your results on social and tag us!

Click here to play today’s EN Wordle.

Updated FEI World Rankings: Five U.S. Riders in Top 20

By on Feb 7, 2022 2:30 pm -

Will Coleman moves up from #32 to #15 in the latest FEI World Ranking. Photo by Abby Powell.

We are finally seeing a return to some state of normalcy (in terms of eventing, at least) as the world continues to contend with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. In 2020, the FEI released updated mitigation procedures for calculating FEI World Rankings to account for competition interruptions and cancellations.

Now, the first look at rankings for 2022 has been released, keeping to the traditional 12-month rolling period in which a rider’s six best scores from the previous 12-month period are put toward their final ranking. Rankings are typically tabulated at the end of each month, dropping scores from the same month in the previous year.

Jonelle Price en route to a podium finish at Pau with McLaren, to the tune of 102 FEI points. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Oliver Townend will take his #1 ranking into the start of the 2022 season, but from that point on we see quite a bit of shuffle in the rankings, including five U.S. riders ranked within the top 20. Boyd Martin remains the highets-ranked U.S. rider, currently in ninth with 380 points. Take look at the updated top 20:

Notable movers and shakers include New Zealand’s Jonelle Price, who climbs from #5 to #2, Great Britain’s Gemma Tattersall moving from #15 to #7, fellow Brit Nicola Wilson moving from #23 to #10, Aachen winner Will Coleman jumping from #32 to #15, as well as moves by Tamie Smith and Phillip Dutton up into the top 20.

Confused as to what events/placings add up to what points? Click the number of points accumulated by each rider on the right hand side of the ranking table (viewable here) to see a breakdown of their points.

Weekend Winners: Galway Downs, Sporting Days, Three Lakes

By on Feb 7, 2022 1:00 pm -

Let’s kick off this week’s Weekend Winners column with a special shout to Susanna Rodell, who completed a century ride (horse and rider combined age over 100) and finished on their dressage score to wind up fourth in their Beginner Novice division at Galway Downs.

I dug up a few things from Susanna, including this piece written for Practical Horseman a few years ago in which she muses on the concept of transitioning from Pony Club mom to Horsemaster. Then, she concluded her article by saying, “…if Lady and I manage to hang in there for another 5 years, we’ll be eligible for century classes. Life is good.”

I’d say mission accomplished, Susanna!

Now, onto more scores from another weekend of eventing:

Galway Downs 2022 Kickoff H.T.: [Final Scores]

Advanced CT: Katy Robinson and Outrageous Dance (39.6)
Advanced/Intermediate: Emilee Libby and Jakobi (29.8)
Open Intermediate: Tamie Smith and MaiTänzer (36.4)
Open Preliminary: Tamie Smith and Mameluke (29.0)
Preliminary Rider: Haley Dwight and WS Radagast (39.3)
Jr. Training Rider: Lauren Crabtree and Excellence (31.9)
Open Training: Erin Kellerhouse and Ringwood Adios Amigo (21.7)
Sr. Training Rider: Kristin Terris and Rathcash Olympia (30.6)
Jr. Novice Rider: Jillian Newman and Curraghgraigue Freeman (31.7)
Novice Amateur: Michelle Jones and Balou Print (21.9)
Open Novice: Erin Kellerhouse and Genesis (29.2)
Sr. Novice Rider: Courtney Lance and Talk To Me Goose (29.7)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Julienne Biglin and Reverie GWF (29.1)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Fiona Holland and Dancing On The Moon (32.1)
Open Beginner Novice: Chloe Smyth and Byzantine SC (30.0)
Starter: Sarah Pinfield and Kingsbridge (30.7)

 

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Sporting Days February H.T.: [Final Scores]

Intermediate CT: Mia Petersen and Fernhill Royale (39.4)
Open Preliminary: Boyd Martin and Butt’s Aria W (39.8)
Preliminary Horse: Nilson Moreira da Silva and Go Global (36.4)
Preliminary Rider: Morgyn Johnson and Peter Parker GS (38.1)
Open Training: Alexander Conrad and Lexington II (28.3)
Preliminary/Training: Brooke Burchianti and Cooley Space Gray (29.7)
Training CT: Meg Bowers and L’Avventura (36.0)
Training Horse: Meg Pellegrini and Cassilio G (35.4)
Training Rider: Sophia Dime and Quidam de Plot (32.1)
Novice Rider A: Lisa Edinger and Quinto Quest (30.8)
Novice Rider B: Isabel Lopez and Beau’s Emergence (30.3)
Open Novice A: Ryan Wood and Ben Nevis (28.1)
Open Novice B: Tim Bourke and Electric Quality (26.7)
Beginner Novice CT: Meg Bowers and Turning The Table (43.4)
Beginner Novice Rider: Sarah Meek and Scherzo Di Notte (29.1)
Open Beginner Novice A: Emily Marsh and Dylano Q (31.3)
Open Beginner Novice B: Annie Read and Classic Chrome PCH (25.9)
Starter: Kristen Goldin and Ashwood Flinn (19.3)

 

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Three Lakes Winter I H.T.: [Final Scores]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Daniela Moguel and Hideaway’s Ness (43.0)
Open Preliminary: Caroline Martin and Galwaybay Redfield HSH Connor (29.7)
Preliminary Rider: Katarina Midgley and Ditch (43.8)
Preliminary/Training: Kimmy Cecere and Landmark’s Jungle’s Gold (30.9)
Open Training A: Caroline Martin and HSH Limited Edition (26.7)
Open Training B: Leonie Padgett and Cooley Precision (25.8)
Training Rider: Alyssa Craig and SBT Clover Road (40.3)
Novice Rider A: Liz Mason and Wisdom Grey (30.8)
Novice Rider B: Alyssa Cairo and Paddington (20.6)
Open Novice A: Delaney Emerson and Redfield Rolex (27.2)
Open Novice B: Delaney Emerson and Redfield Soranella (29.7)
Open Novice C: Chelsey Sawtell and Covenant (29.2)
Beginner Novice Rider: Alison Zeitlin and Royal Report (34.0)
Open Beginner Novice A: Ashley Trier and State of Emergency (28.4)
Open Beginner Novice B: Madeline Scott and Molon Labe (28.4)

 

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Looking to the unrecognized side of the calendar, Chattahoochee Hills hosted a schooling show over the weekend, scores from which can be viewed here. MeadowCreek Park in Kossem Tx, also hosted a schooling show with divisions from Green As Grass up through Preliminary.

 

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Catching Up with Ever So Sweet Scholarship Recipient Sierra Lesny

By on Feb 7, 2022 9:30 am -

Big pats for Edy Rameika’s Sebastian, schoolmaster in residence at Overlook South. Photo by Sally Spickard

Strides for Equality Equestrians (SEE) was formed in 2020 and immediately set off to help grow our sport through increased representation and opportunity for riders from diverse backgrounds. The fruits of this labor manifested in a large way with the creation of the Ever So Sweet Scholarship, in partnership with the USEA Foundation and Edy Rameika. The scholarship provides opportunity for a deserving rider to spend time, fully funded, training with Sara Kozumplik at her Virginia and Florida bases. Now into its second cycle, the Ever So Sweet scholarship for this winter was awarded to Pennsylvania-based Sierra Lesny, who joined Sara and her team at their Ocala base last month with her partner, off-track Thoroughbred “Pea”.

While I was in Ocala last month, I stopped by to meet Sierra and see what she’s been up to since arriving in Florida. Sierra has had a whirlwind of a winter so far; she won a sweepstakes put on by Phillip Dutton and Cosequin, traveling down to his new Wellington base before going to Ocala and even taking a spin on his Olympic mount, Z.

Sierra grew up with horse influence from her grandparents — her grandmother ran a lesson program, where Sierra would spend much of her childhood. From there, Sierra found she had aspirations to progress with her riding. She spent as much time as she could at the barn through middle and high school, working student at a variety of hunter/jumper barns. After taking time to go to college, focusing on her studies and working at a suicide hotline while horses took a backseat. She then took a job as a middle school teacher, but when she returned home on break and saw her saddle sitting, she felt the bug flutter again. So it was back to grooming and working at barns, and eventually getting back in the saddle.

Sierra stumbled upon the Ever So Sweet scholarship online and applied mostly on a whim — “I didn’t think I would hear anything from it,” she admits now, and she was pleasantly surprised to learn that she’d been awarded the scholarship for the winter term. Around this time, Pea’s owner offered Sierra an ownership share, and soon enough she was packing up to head south to learn with Sara. “Both of us are kind of learning at the same time,” Sierra laughed, noting that this week had been her first time sitting in a dressage saddle or putting on a cross country vest.

Sierra and Pea share a moment. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Sierra aspires to become a professional in the long run. “I’m not sure exactly how I want to be involved,” she mused. “Most of my background has been working with the ‘bad’ horses, working with young horses. But I do have a competitive streak and I do like to compete. I definitely do want to make this a full-time career, and there are so many amazing horse people in this industry from all different backgrounds that if I can learn from someone else, it’s really helpful.”

Sara has been teaching Sierra both on Pea as well as resident schoolmaster Sebastian, and leading up to her first eventing experience she’s gone cross country schooling for the first time ever, attended some educational seminars put on by the US Eventing Grooms Association, scribed for and ridden with dressage judges, and spent as much time as possible in the barn learning how a top-level operation runs. For her, this opportunity is all about seizing the day.

“There’s so much to do here, I’m really happy to be here just to learn and see as much as I can,” Sierra said. She’ll spend the next couple of months in Florida before heading back north. “Ocala in general is a much different area than what I’m used to. I’m still getting my feet wet, and the biggest change has been learning about eventing in general. Sara is so helpful when she’s teaching, and even though I’m very out of my comfort zone she has been really encouraging. It’s really interesting learning how much she really breaks her training down and about each phase of eventing.”

Over the weekend, Sierra officially came over to the dark side (welcome!) and competed in her first event at Majestic Oaks, winning her Novice dressage with Sebastian and going on to finish third in the division. We think she may have caught the bug!

You can follow along with Sierra (and future Ever So Sweet recipients) on Instagram and Facebook, and you can also keep an eye on the SEE website for updates on the next round of Ever So Sweet applications if this article has given you FOMO!

A Very Special ‘Who Jumped It Best’ from Groton House Horse Trials

By on Feb 3, 2022 9:00 am -

The great Groton House Horse Trials, long an eventing destination heralding back to the “golden days” of the sport, will close its doors this year and bring an end to an era at the same time.

When we heard the news, we reached out to longtime Area I photographer Joan Davis of Flatlandsfoto, who has graciously put together this very special edition of Who Jumped It Best from “back in the day” at Groton House. And what a special one it is — some very famous faces, some who are sadly no longer with us, some who are still actively competing or involved in the sport. Which is your favorite? There are too many to choose from!

Mark Weissbecker. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Kristin Schmolze. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Karen O’Connor. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Beth Perkins. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Matt Flynn. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Nancy Guyotte. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Dan Clasing. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Phillip Dutton. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Tremaine Cooper. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Colin Davidson. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Darren Chiacchia. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Laine Ashker. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

You know the drill — vote for the winner of eternal EN karma by casting your vote below. Of course, this whole crew is full of winners so it’s not quite a contest!

Where Are They Now? Neville Bardos Still Has That Get Up and Go!

By on Feb 2, 2022 12:14 pm -

This article is brought to you with support from Zoetis.

Social media is a great way to keep up with the horses we loved to follow in their hey-day. Neville Bardos is a name most everyday eventing fans know well: the cheeky former racehorse purchased off the sale truck for $850 back in Australia would go on to be Boyd Martin’s partner for the 2010 World Equestrian Games, where they finished 10th individually. Neville also made a remarkable recovery after being rescued from the devastating fire at Windurra in 2011, returning to not only complete but also finish in the top 10 at Burghley that same year.

Neville Bardos training at Windurra

Going to have to agree with Silva Martin on this one…glad to see Nev is feeling like himself after all these years 😂

Posted by Boyd Martin on Monday, January 31, 2022

Neville is now 23, but as you can see in the video above he still has plenty of pep in that step! He’s spent his days teaching the next generation of riders at the Martins’ home facility, and we’re happy to see him thriving in his well-deserved retirement.

Want to walk down memory lane with Neville Bardos? Here are a few links to send you down the rabbit hole:

NBC News: Neville Bardos Cheats Death and Jockeys for a Position on U.S. Olympic Team
USEA: Horse Heros – Neville Bardos
New York Times: Fire Survivor and a Possible Olympian – A Horse Named Neville (paywall)

A long career (and, more importantly, a long and healthy life) is always a goal for our horses. Ask your veterinarian about Zoetis’ line-up of Regenerative Medicine Devices that can help support your horse for a long-lasting and comfortable career and life.

Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Feb 2, 2022 12:01 am -

Not quite the “tiger” we envisioned this Lunar New Year… Photo by Tilly Berendt.

I always chuckle at the end of a calendar year when I send my sister in Korea a “Happy New Year!” text because I know what I’ll get in response: “Silly, that’s not the new year!”

I was 30 before I really learned about the existence of Lunar New Year, which coincides with the moon’s phases and this year began yesterday, February 1. My 30th year was the year I met my birth mother, and I’ve subsequently met my biological sister in person in the years since that first trip back to Korea. Through this extended family, I’ve been able to learn more about Lunar New Year and its celebrations around the world. For example, Koreans celebrate Seollal, a festival commemorating the Lunar New Year and treated similarly to how we would on Christmas or another family-centric holiday. In this sense, the turning of the Gregorian calendar to January 1 doesn’t mean quite as much to some — the “real” new year begins when the moon begins a new cycle of 12 phases, meaning the date of Lunar New Year changes year to year. In 2023, the Lunar New Year will begin on January 22.

2022 brings the year of the tiger. What does that mean, exactly? Each year is represented by one of the 12 animals depicted in the Chinese Zodiac and, as you might have imagined already, people born within these years often are characterized by traits of that year’s animal. Tigers, for example, are characterized as “natural leaders who are both brave and thrill-seeking, often craving attention”, among other things.

What does this have to do with eventing, you might ask? Well, nothing, specifically. Except for the fact that you may share barns with an Asian rider who celebrates this holiday as religiously as you might celebrate Christmas, and now you have some additional knowledge from which to grow a conversation!

Black History Bit of the Day:

Each day in February, we’re celebrating Black voices in honor of Black History Month. We look forward to sharing what we’re learning about Black equestrians right here in News & Notes each morning.

When you hear the term “cowboy”, many call to mind the image of a wizened, white man in a tall cowboy hat. Stereotypical as this has become, it’s not the only accurate depiction of the horsemen who roamed the country before us. Smithsonian Magazine tackles the lesser-known history of Black cowboys in this deep-dive.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Galway Downs Kickoff H.T. (Temecula, Ca.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Sporting Days Farm February H.T. (Aiken, Sc.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

Three Lakes Winter I H.T. at Caudle Ranch (Groveland, Fla.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Wednesday News & Reading:

The new Eventing Handbook by the Levels is intended to be every rider and trainer’s best friend, and it’s full of useful information particularly for those wanting to obtain their Instructor Certification Program designation. Click here to read more about the revamped ICP program and the new Handbook.

The EquiRatings Horse Form Index (HFI) was developed in partnership with the FEI and is now available for public use. The HFI considers recent performances (similar to the EQRI index found on your USEA profile) and is intended to help riders assess their readiness and safety before attempting a competition. Horse & Hound has the full report here.

California riders! There are a lot of excellent clinicians headed to Earl and Jen McFall’s Dragonfire Farm this season. Want to ride with Hawley Bennett-Awad, Susie Hutchinson, Phillip Dutton, or Boyd Martin (or, all of the above)? Check out this Instagram post for dates and information on how to sign up.

Did you miss Strides for Equality Equestrians’ presentation at the USEA Annual Meeting & Convention in December? Now you can watch the full session online here — and it’s well worth a rewatch for perspective on DEI work in the industry and ways to help grow our sport through greater representation. Click here to watch the video.

Amateur 2* eventer Courtenay Tuxhorn is a lifelong athlete — but it hasn’t always been horses that have caught her competitive fancy. In fact, she’s a former triathlete, and she sat down with Chris Stafford for the Women in Sports podcast — you can listen to the episode here.

Watch This on H&C+:

Up Your Care and Management Game with USEGA and ERA This Winter

By on Jan 31, 2022 11:00 am -

The winter is an optimal time to spend some time learning before competitions fill the schedule, and the newly-formed US Eventing Grooms Association (USEGA) and Eventing Riders Association have teamed up to offer grooming, care, and management seminars in Ocala. The series began earlier this month with sessions on show jumping course design/walking, clipping, icing, braiding, and other useful topics for eventers (or, really, riders of any background) and continues into February with topics including nutrition and massage therapy.

Below you’ll find the upcoming schedule and locations of the next seminars (note: while these sessions are hosted in Ocala, the organizers will post live streams when possible on social media and video content post-seminar):

These sessions are offered free of charge to attendees — if you’d like to support this program, organizers are encouraging donations to the USEA Foundation for the Liz Cochrane Memorial Grooms Award. You can join this private Facebook group for more updates on this series.

Want to see what’s been discussed so far? Keep scrolling:

Course Design 101 with Chris Barnard: Why design from Advanced down?

Forelock Braiding 101: The legend herself, Max Corcoran, shows us how:

Icing 101: Why ice young horses?

Be sure to follow USEGA on Instagram for more updates.

Weekend Winners: Full Gallop, Rocking Horse

By on Jan 31, 2022 9:00 am -

We’ve got a special shout-out this week: you may recall the brilliant pink colors of Charlotte Collier as she swarmed around cross country courses with her longtime Advanced partner, Clifford M. But after Clifford M presented with severe respiratory symptoms last fall, Charlotte thought her heart horse’s career was done for. As it turned out, Clifford M was suffering from a rare and mysterious condition that involved him inhaling his own saliva, essentially drowning himself over time. Surgery was successful in reducing symptoms, but he was still experiencing discomfort.

It was here that Charlotte became connected to Pinpoint Equine, which uses hair follicle analysis to formulate supplementation for each individual horse — and Charlotte says this has made all the difference for “Nils”, who was soon enough back to bucking, squealing, and yes even jumping! We’re thrilled to see Charlotte and Nils make their competition return this weekend at Rocking Horse, where they enjoyed an easy romp around the Training level. Here’s to what we hope will be many more such adventures together! To read Charlotte’s full experience, check out the comments on the post above.

Full Gallop Farm January H.T. (Aiken, Sc.): [Final Results]

Preliminary: Kristi Foresman and KDR Kingston (64.4)
Training: Jennifer Helgren and Del Rio (29.0)
Novice: Alexander Conrad and Ricky (26.8)
Training/Novice: Erin Pullen and Fibonacci (40.3)
Beginner Novice A: Rosary Murphy and Fiji (24.7)
Beginner Novice B: Erin Pullen and Garvey (25.6)
Starter: Nick Olijslager and Northern Quest Lionheart (26.7)

 

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Rocking Horse Winter I H.T. (Altoona, Fla.): [Final Results]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Jamie McAllister and Army Ranger (39.1)
Open Intermediate A: Leslie Law and Lady Chatterley (27.9)
Open Intermediate B: Buck Davidson and Carlevo (23.9)
Open Intermediate One Day: Natalia Neneman and Electric Lux (33.9)
Open Preliminary: Lucienne Bellissimo and Tremanton (24.3)
Open Preliminary One Day: Sharon White and Cooley Kildaire (29.1)
Preliminary Horse: Leslie Law and Fupsilon Grande Lande (24.4)
Preliminary Rider: Darcy Drury and Ardeo Illusion (27.2)
Jr. Training Rider: Audrey Littlefield and Prince Renan (32.1)
Open Training A: Anna Loschiavo and I’m Special VG (27.1)
Open Training B: Katie Malensek and FE Cheerio (26.0)
Open Training C: Stephanie Jackson and Drumloman Lad (23.3)
Preliminary/Training: Catherine Pournelle and MTF Cooley Knight (35.0)
Sr. Training Rider: Amelia Ebhardt and Fernhill In Motion (28.1)
Training Horse A: Elinor O’Neal and FE Lions Darco (31.4)
Training Horse B: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Sky Watch (25.7)
Jr. Novice Rider: Molly McLaughlin and Fernhill Sinatra (25.8)
Novice Horse A: Chelsea Canedy and Little Einstein (29.7)
Novice Horse B: Alex Green Kerby and Lanikai (26.7)
Open Novice A: Mike Huber and Fernhill Liverpool (22.8)
Open Novice B: Delaney Emerson and Namiro Star (30.0)
Sr. Novice Rider: Alyssa Cairo and Paddington (33.7)
Beginner Novice Rider A: River Rogers and Redfield Jim (25.6)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Maura Tierney and Ballytarsna Dunne Waiting (24.1)
Open Beginner Novice: Angela Bowles and Sybil AB (31.6)

 

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Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Jan 26, 2022 12:01 am -

Panama has itself a newly-minted eventer! Congratulations to Romulo Roux and Colenomer on finishing third in a big Novice Rider division at Grand Oaks this past weekend! We love welcoming new faces to the dark side, so come on over, Romulo!

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Rocking Horse Winter I H.T. (Altoona, Fl.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Full Gallop Farm January H.T. (Aiken, Sc.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Wednesday News & Reading:

Cynthia Smith recorded over 500 hours volunteering in 2021 — how incredible is that? This is the highest number of hours recorded since the inception of the USEA’s Volunteer Incentive Program in 2016. Way to go, Cynthia! You can read more about her in this profile.

Pro tip: speed does not equal power, nor does it carry the same value. Liz Halliday-Sharp gave an informal clinic in southern California earlier this year, and this concept remained a major emphasis of her teaching. Learn more in this wrap-up from Practical Horseman.

If you’ve ever free-fed hay and watched your horse absolutely gorge himself into oblivion, you’ve likely worried about your choice. How do you free-feed the best way? These tips from The Horse might help.

Make sure you’re following the Strides for Equality Equestrians Ever So Sweet scholarship social media accounts! The most recent scholarship recipient, Sierra Lesny, has officially begun her training with Sara Kozumplik in Ocala, and she’s keeping us up to speed on her adventures on Facebook and Instagram.

Watch This on H&C+:

Video Break:

5 Barn Hacks from Brianna Noble to Make Your Life Easier

By on Jan 24, 2022 12:00 pm -

We all love a good barn hack, and we’re always on the lookout for new ideas to make life with horses more efficient and, by association, more fun. Northern California-based Brianna Noble maintains an active social media presence and has recently begun sharing some barn hacks that she has in her toolbox. We collected a few for you below, but for much more you should definitely give Brianna a follow at @urbancowgirl510.

Barn Hack 1: Backing the Trailer

 

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Barn Hack 2: Preventing Water Spills

 

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Barn Hack 3: Opening a Hay Bale

 

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Barn Hack 4: Filling a Hay Net

 

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Barn Hack 5: A Better Way to Spray

 

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Weekend Winners: Stable View Aiken Opener, Grand Oaks

By on Jan 24, 2022 9:00 am -

It’s so nice to be back to score-stalking writing Weekend Winners each week. I took this column over a couple of years ago and have always enjoyed my Monday mornings checking on results. I get a lot of enjoyment from following my friends, people I’ve met through the years, and horses that have caught my eye, and I hope you do too!

This weekend featured events in each main winter “hub”: Stable View’s Aiken Opener and Grand Oaks in Ocala. Stable View heroically dealt with the challenges handed down by Mother Nature, furiously prepping the grounds for impending winter weather, even going to lengths to save the water jumps from freezing over and handing out hand warmers at the gates. Hats off to the crew at Stable View!

 

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Our Unofficial Low Score Award this week was earned by Matt Brown, who teamed up with Alexa Gartenberg’s Frame Shamrock (originally produced by U.S-based young horse producer Martin Douzant) to earn a 20.3 and win the Open Preliminary A at Stable View. Nicely done!

Stable View Aiken: Final Scores

Open Preliminary A: Matt Brown and Frame Shamrock (20.3)
Open Preliminary B: Alexander Conrad and Malibu Preacher (28.7)
Preliminary Horse: Matthew Ulmer and Kings Carter (33.2)
Preliminary Rider: Sophie Miller and Quarlotta C (25.8)
Modified A: Allison Springer and No May Moon (27.3)
Modified B: Mike Pendleton andd Napoleon Z (33.5)
Open Training A: Waylon Roberts and Mighty Finn (24.3)
Open Training B: Marty Riney and George Alexander (27.5)
Training Horse: Emily Watson and Upland Seven Z (23.6)
Training Rider A: Olivia Moore and Kubota (26.1)
Training Rider B: Solomon Edwards and Graffique (36.4)
Training Rider C: Isabel Brunker andd Allia (34.4)
Novice Horse: Boyd Martin and Spartin Martin Z (21.9)
Novice Rider A: Mary Carol Harsch and Foster’s Bold Favorite (29.7)
Novice Rider B: Lisa Hida and Cooleys Rule of Law (27.2)
Open Novice A: Amy Cobb and Lock and Load (28.7)
Open Novice B: Mike Pendleton and Clemons T (24.7)
Beginner Novice Horse: Emily Beshear and Waffle (24.1)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Heather Currier and Newmarket Equador (29.1)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Anna Burgess and String Theory (26.8)
Open Beginner Novice: Darrell Vaughn and R. Chumley (25.9)

 

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Grand Oaks Ocala: Final Scores

Open Preliminary: Lisa Barry and Rosie’s Aventadora (33.2)
Preliminary Rider: Morgan McAllister and Made To Order (35.0)
Modified A: Lynn Symansky and Bounce 6 (22.0)
Modified B: Hillary Irwin and Cavalier Monte Carlo (32.0)
Open Training A: Hugh Wrigley and FE Money Made (26.4)
Open Training B: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Maybach (29.7)
Training Rider: Devin Robel and High Light (31.7)
Novice Rider A: Emma McHugh and Lincoln Park (29.7)
Novice Rider B: Darlene Dee Walters and Concord Dawn (30.8)
Open Novice A: Delaney Emerson and Redfield Soranella (24.4)
Open Novice B: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Sky Watch (27.5)
Beginner Novice Rider: Penny Welsch and Mr. Poppers (30.9)
Open Beginner Novice: Lee Maher and Evros HSH Gambler (31.0)

 

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Monday News & Notes from Futuretrack

By on Jan 24, 2022 12:01 am -

Photo via Kim Severson on Facebook.

Now here’s a cool little throwback to start your week! Kim Severson posed for a quick photo with her cross country vest from the 2004 Olympics in Athens, where she and the famous Winsome Adante won individual silver and team bronze. “What a fun surprise!” Kim wrote on her social media. “I found two of my Team USA vests on display at the local tack shop, one of which was from the 2004 Athens Olympics. It’s always a good day to remember those special moments with Winsome Adante!”

Weekend Results:

Grand Oaks H.T. (Weirsdale, Fl.): [Website] [Final Scores]

Stable View Aiken Opener H.T. (Aiken, Sc.): [Website] [Final Scores]

Monday News & Readding:

Let’s get to know the USEA areas! The U.S. is split up into 10 eventing regions, and this new series kicks off with a profile on Area 1. Read more here.

Honestly, we could all use a Bobby in our lives. Meet the 35-year-old eventing pony who won his last outing (a 30cm lead-line class, which honestly we need here!), and Bobby’s six-year-old partner Amy is hoping to repeat the feat in 2022. Read more about this adorable duo here.

Take a look back at this year’s US Equestrian Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony with photos from the evening’s awardees.

Have you heard of Ebony Horsewomen yet? This incredible organization based in Hartford, Connecticut is striving to help the local community improve its mental health with the help of horses. Learn more about the work Ebony Horsewomen is doing in this video.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers might not be heading for a Super Bowl repeat, but luckily linebacker Devin White has plenty of fun to fill his off-season: riding his horses. He sat down for a chat with veteran sports journalist Erin Andrews all about his love of horses earlier this month. You can read more about Devin and his horses on Horse Nation here.

Video Break:

Boyd Martin was reunited with his Rio Olympic partner, Blackfoot Mystery, during a clinic in Texas earlier this month:

#GoEventing ‘Grams of the Week: Let’s Get It Started In Here!

By on Jan 23, 2022 9:30 am -

It’s that time! Time to dust off the show britches, do your pre-dressage prayer ritual, and get out eventing! The season in the U.S. has begun and we’re getting back into full swing — judging by your #goeventing Instagrams this week, you’re raring to get out there. Let’s take a look around — and don’t forget to tag your public posts with #goeventing so we can feature you!

 

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Video Break: Add These Gymnastic Exercises from Gemma Tattersall to Your Arsenal

By on Jan 22, 2022 4:00 pm -

If you follow enough professional riders on social media, the amount of education and new tools you can pick up is rather remarkable. British 5* winner Gemma Tattersall shared a few pole exercises she’s using at home this winter that can easily be incorporated into your program as well.

“The exercises in the video can be used with horses of all levels from babies right up to established 5* eventers and GP show jumpers!” Gemma describes of the video above. “We set out two lots of 3 poles on a fan – 3 yards middle to middle – which are primarily there to help with control but can also be used to help improve flying changes. We’ve then got two oxers – 6 yards apart with poles in the middle and guide poles in and out to help with straightness.”

Remember: jumps don’t have to be big to be instrumental. Exercises like this are generally set small to reduce wear and tear and focus instead on fundamentals and strength building.

“All of the exercises can be done individually or as a sequence together on either rein and can be done out of trot if you’re on a young one,” Gemma explained in her post. “I’ve found these really get the older ones thinking about their feet & staying straight too!”

Happy practicing! Go Eventing.

Photo Gallery: 2022 Kicks Off at Majestic Oaks Ocala

By on Jan 19, 2022 12:01 pm -

Training Rider A: Tawnie Anderson and Gorgeous In Grey. Photo by Lisa Madren.

The eventing season in the U.S. is officially underway as riders left the startbox for the first time this year at Majestic Oaks in Ocala last weekend. Majestic Oaks is just one of the many venues decorating the Florida landscape and frequented by winter eventers coming down to train and knock the rust off.

Running levels from Starter through Preliminary, Majestic Oaks is described as having bold, inviting, and educational cross country courses, all of which were designed by John Williams. Here’s a look at the final winning scores:

Majestic Oaks Ocala H.T. (Ocala, Fl.): Final Scores

Open Preliminary: Leslie Law and Fupsilon Grande Lande (23.7)
Preliminary Rider: Ella Strote and Karmic Calling (31.1)
Open Training A: Devin Robel and Gilou (27.9)
Open Training B: Catherine Pournelle and MTF Cooley Knight (25.2)
Open Training C: Maya Black and FE Chardonnay (22.4)
Training Rider A: Tawnie Anderson and Gorgeous In Grey (34.5)
Training Rider B: Claire Williams and In Vogue (26.7)
Novice Rider A: Cherye Huber and Sam I Am (28.2)
Novice Rider B: Corey Jarman and Fernhill Joker (28.6)
Open Novice A: Delaney Emerson and Namiro Star (27.5)
Open Novice B: Ariel Grald and HSF Leamore Last Call (21.7)
Open Novice C: Caroline Martin and As Good As Cash (20.0)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Kristen Ayers and Pack Leader (30.6)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Emma Miklos and Fernhill Full Throttle (30.3)
Open Beginner Novice A: Caroline Martin and Redfield Rolex (22.2)
Open Beginner Novice B: Leah Lang-Gluscic and Kubo Cat (30.6)
Starter-Intro: Brenda Hutton and True Taste (29.9)

Lisa Madren was the photographer on duty at Majestic Oaks and she’s generously shared a few shots of our winners from the weekend with us. Want to support Lisa’s work? Visit her website or Instagram for more.

Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Jan 19, 2022 12:01 am -

Photo via Phillip Dutton Eventing on Facebook.

I am just a teeny bit envious of Sierra Lesny, who is having herself a whirl of a winter thanks to two very cool opportunities: a day spent with Phillip Dutton, in partnership with Cosequin, and a full scholarship to train with Sara Kozumplik in Florida thanks to Strides for Equality Equestrians. Sierra began her winter tour with a day at Phillip’s Wellington base, where she got to take a spin on his Tokyo partner, Z. We’re green with envy, Sierra — but we hope you’re enjoying yourself!

Earlier this week, we welcomed the winner of the Cosequin Equine Phillip Dutton Experience Sweepstakes, Sierra Lesny, to…

Posted by Phillip Dutton Eventing on Thursday, January 13, 2022

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Grand Oaks H.T. (Weirsdale, Fl.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Stable View Aiken Opener H.T. (Aiken, Sc.): [Website] [Entry Status] [EN’s Preview] [Volunteer]

Wednesday News & Reading:

I’m excited to sit down for a one-on-one interview with Canadian Olympian Kyle Carter for a chat on the topic of longevity — both for ourselves and for our horses — later this month. How does one set themselves up for having a long career (amateur or professional!) as an eventer? How do we best support our horses for longevity? We’d love to ask Kyle some questions that you want answers to during this interview, which will be recorded and released on our channels later this month. Submit your question here and we may bring it to Kyle during the interview. This chat is brought to you by Zoetis Equine’s Regenerative Medicine Device line. Learn more here.

Your dressage test for this year has been updated! Be sure to learn your 2022 test, and find some guidance from Marilyn Payne’s session at the USEA Annual Meeting & Convention here.

US Equestrian’s calendar process webinar, originally scheduled for today, has been postponed with no new date yet available. Click here for more information.

Corner jumps always look cool in photos, but what’s the technique to answering the question safely and correctly? This how-to from Practical Horseman will set you straight for your next attempt at a corner question.

Soft arms = better connection. But man, is that hard to achieve! Find the middle ground between noodle arms and 2×4 arms with this guide from Dressage Today.

Cool job alert: SmartPak/Covetrus are looking for a Director of Health Product Development. To view the job description and requirements, click here. This can be a remote position.

Do you have any “horse health resolutions” this year? Haygain has a few to get you started — and they culminate in a happier and better understood partner!

Watch This on H&C+:

Wednesday Video Break: More barn hacks from Brianna Noble!