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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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Military Boekelo CCIO4*-L Cross Country Live Updates: Tamie Smith in 3rd, Team USA 2nd

By on Oct 9, 2021 4:59 am -

Eventing Nation’s coverage of Boekelo is brought to you by Kentucky Performance Products, our go-to source for the best support your horse can get. With a full line of proven supplements designed to help your horse feel his or her best, you can have peace of mind knowing that Kentucky Performance Products has your horse’s top health in mind. Learn more about KPP by visiting kppusa.com.

It’s live update time! My coffee is brewed up, my dog is confused, and I’m ready to get to GIF-ing as we get set for the start of cross country at Boekelo, located in Enschede, Netherlands just to the east of Amsterdam. If you’re just catching up with the action, Germany’s Sophie Leube and Jadore Moi is currently the leader, having won the dressage on a score of 24.4. She will not, however, have any breathing room as the top four are all on sub-25 scores and the top 10 are separated by just 5.8 seconds of time.

British designer Adrian Ditcham, who managed and built the London 2012 Olympic track, is the man behind the plans today, creating a 10 minute, 16 second course with 40 jumping efforts to give both the Nations Cup team riders as well as the individuals a formidable test today. It’s going to be crisp and clear all day, making conditions fantastic for fit horses (thank goodness the dressage is done!).

Graphic via Military Boekelo.

The U.S. is sitting in a very competitive spot after dressage, sitting on a cumulative penalty score of 83.5 to sit just a hair behind Great Britain, who leads the way on a team score of 80.8. Tamie Smith is well-placed with both her team ride (Danito) and individual ride (Solaguayre California) in the top 10. Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire are tied for 11th, and we have a cluster of Americans (Jennie Brannigan and FE Lifestyle, Hallie Coon and Global Ex, Matt Flynn and Wizzerd) a bit further down the board in the early 30s, but at this point not out of contention ahead of cross country. Sadly, individual competitor Katie Ruppel withdrew Houdini prior to dressage on Friday after the gelding sustained a minor ligament injury on Thursday.

I’ll be bringing you updates as quickly as I can manage them, but I highly encourage you to check out the live stream over on ClipMyHorse.TV/FEI.TV. If you’re not up at the crack of dawn to watch, this platform is fairly quick about getting replays up — I’ve found the dressage replays were available same-day, so that bodes well for the cross country replay! You can sign up for a free 30-day trial of ClipMyHorse.TV to enjoy all of the rides (which are even sortable by rider once replay is up, which is a great feature) here. You can preview the course here.

The first rider will leave the start box at 11 a.m. local CEST time / 5 a.m. EST. The U.S. riders’ times are as follows:

Tamie Smith and Danito (Team – 3rd – 24.7): 11:28 a.m. local / 5:28 a.m. EST – CLEAR, 2 seconds of time
Matt Flynn and Wizzerd (Team – 34th – 32.2): 11:56 a.m. local / 5:56 a.m. EST – ELIMINATED, Rider Fall
Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire (Team – 11th – 26.7) 12:44 p.m. local / 6:44 a.m. EST – CLEAR inside the time
Jennie Brannigan and FE Lifestyle (Team – 32nd – 32.1): 1:20 p.m. local / 7:20 a.m. EST – CLEAR, 1 second of time
Hallie Coon and Global Ex (Individual – 32nd – 32.1): 2:20 p.m. local / 8:20 a.m. EST – CLEAR, inside the time
Tamie Smith and Solaguayre California (Individual – 6th – 25.6) 3:36 p.m. local / 9:36 a.m EST – 20 PENALTIES, inside the time

Refresh this page periodically for updates! Tilly will check in later today with a full report from Boekelo. Safe, clear and fast to all – Go Eventing!

Military Boekelo/FEI Eventing Nations Cup CCIO4*-L: Website, Start Lists + Scores, XC Order of Go, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

9:51 a.m. EST: Malin is home clear but picks up too much time to retain her top five placing. Our last to go, Merel Blom, has also fallen from Ceda N.O.P. at fence 20A, which will also bump her out of the top of the leaderboard. So we’ll finish the day with four U.S. pairs inside the top 15 and two in the top 10. Tamie Smith and Danito will be in third overnight on a two-day score of 25.5, and the U.S. will be in second as a team. You can check out complete scores and fence analysis here. Some facts and figures for you:

  • 44 of 58 starters completed the cross country for a 75.9% completion rate
  • 11 pairs were eliminated, 3 retired
  • 11 riders made the optimum time of 10:16
  • Less than two rails separate the entire top 10, and the top 6 have one rail between them

9:47 a.m. EST: Well we’ve lost the feed but Tamie is home with Solaguayre California, still managing to come home inside the time despite that trouble at the ditch and rails. She’ll be kicking herself for that, no doubt, but what a showing for this young mare in her very first CCI4*-L!

9:44 a.m. EST: Tamie and Solaguayre California have a bold ride through the water at 20, this mare is looking on her game and it’s a shame they had that one problem!

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

9:42 a.m. EST: Tamie Smith had a runout at the C of the coffin at 11. We also welcome Malin Hansen-Hotopp and Monsieur Schnabel. We also see a 20 for Toshi at the arrowhead at 27.

9:39 a.m. Solaguayre California is just a little green jumping down the Bartenburg Bank at 4, but Tamie navigates her through clear.

9:36 a.m. EST: Brennus was another to have a bit of a trip or peck on landing in the water at 20, but Dibo keeps him on his feet and they’re safely through. And here’s Tamie!

9:32 a.m. EST: Next away will be another Japanese Olympic rider, Toshiyuki Tanaka and Talma d’Allou, who are currently in 15th on a score of 27.6. Tamie Smith will be the next to go with Solaguayre California.

9:28 a.m. EST: Oh no! Another one to fall at the number 20 water, Brian Morrison and Global Faerie Flashy. They are wet but both up and seem to be ok. Meanwhile, we have Andreas Dibowski and Brennus out on course next.

9:22 a.m. EST: Opposition Filmstar tries to add in an extra stride before this corner at 13 but scrapes his way through thanks to some quick reacting:

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

9:16 a.m. EST: Arthur Marx punches the air as he gets a bold shot out of the water at 20 aboard Church’ile. Fellow French rider Barbara Sayous is now away with Opposition Filmstar.

9:14 a.m. EST: Sadly Willemina fell from Ekino at fence 13, what a bummer!

9:12 a.m. EST: We’ll next see Japanese Olympian Yoshiaki Oiwa and Calle 44, coming out on a 26.7 in 11th after dressage. This pair is coming off of a seventh place finish at Aachen last month after parting ways on cross country in Tokyo for a very unlucky early ending.

9:08 a.m. EST: Willemina opts for the long route at the coffin at 11 as we now welcome Arthur Marx and Church’ile, riding as individuals for France, to the course.

9:04 a.m. EST: And now we welcome Willemina and Ekino as we start the final group of 10 to see today!

8:57 a.m. EST: Hm, now Thierry van Reine has now been given a refusal at 27 and not an elimination for missing a jump.

8:54 a.m. EST Cool story that Spencer Sturmey has just shared: Dutch rider and our next to see, Willemina van der Goes-Petter, made it a goal of hers to ride here on home turf at Boekelo before she turned 50. Now at 49, she’s made it here and she’s done one better: she’s in eighth position coming into today. She’ll ride on a score of 26.1 as she leaves the start box.

8:46 a.m. EST: We’ve got just about 11 more riders to see go out of the start box this beautiful day, including our final U.S. rider Tamie Smith with her individual ride Solaguayre California. They’ll be taking their turn in just under an hour. Meanwhile, we’ve got British individual pair Tom Rowland and Quintillus out on course and looking to maybe move up a hair if they can go quick.

8:42 a.m. EST: Yes, it looks like Thierry jumped the brush over there at the end of the course and went right by the narrow arrowhead. What a bummer! That will be elimination for this pair. At least eventing eliminations don’t work the way Squid Game eliminations do…?

8:40 a.m. EST: An absolute class round for Thierry van Reine and the 18-years-young ACSI Harry Belafonte, who looked nowhere near his age as he skipped around out there. They are showing as having missed a jump at fence 27, so that could be a disappointing end to their weekend…

8:30 a.m. EST: Hallie Coon and Global Ex are home two seconds inside the time! They will remain on their dressage score of 32.1 and provisionally will go into 11th.

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

8:28 a.m. EST: Hallie kills is through the water at 20:

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

8:26 a.m. EST: Nicely sat for Hallie through the ditch and rail question:

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

8:25 a.m. EST: Hallie clips the flag at the right-hand corner at fence 12B, but no issues as Global Ex locks right on and keeps going.

8:23 a.m. EST: Hallie looking strong down the Bartenburg Bank at 4:

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

8:19 a.m. EST: A couple of updates, Simon Grieve and Drumbilla Metro retired after trouble at 9. U.S. individuals Hallie Coon and Global Ex will be the next to see.

8:18 a.m. EST: Ah, Declan Cullen and the 9-year-old stallion Grand Mariner have a runout at the big brush table coming off the Batenburg Bank at 4C. They’re clear on the second attempt.

8:15 a.m. EST: Jule Wewer had a stop at the first corner at 17 and she has called it a day. The horse just didn’t quite look totally switched on throughout — they also had a runout at the first water at 9 earlier on, too.

8:11 a.m. EST: Tamara Acklin and Caltra Western Beauty parted ways at fence 13 — we didn’t catch it on the live feed. Jule Wewer and Ruling Spirit, individuals for Germany, are clear through the long route at 11.

8:05 a.m. EST: Ugh! Irish rider Michael Ryan is another to fall victim to the water at 20 after TR Kaygraff just catches the toes on the landing in similar fashion to some before them. Michael gives a thumbs up after catch his horse and both look no worse for the wear. Meanwhile, Swiss rider Tamara Acklin has a runout at 12B.

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

8:00 a.m. EST: A look at Alina through the water at 20, where she elects to go for the longer option.

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

7:53 a.m. EST: Now we see Alina Dibowski, Andreas Dibowski’s daughter, on course and clear through the first few with Barbados 26. Meanwhile, Great Britain’s Izzy Taylor and Hartacker are clear through 26.

7:51 a.m. EST: The best way to celebrate a fast clear? Two Dutch beers and some quality time with your superstar groom and superstar horse:

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

7:43 a.m. EST: The U.S. will solidly retain its second-place position as we wrap up the team rounds at Boekelo. Great Britain is on a team score of 80.8, followed by the U.S. on an 84.7. We still have Izzy Taylor to see for Great Britain as the final team rider, but thanks to three clear rounds ahead of her she’s got less pressure to worry about.

7:38 a.m. EST: Jennie does the U.S. proud with just one second of time aboard FE Lifestyle. What a brilliant ride! Jennie’s had some poor luck overseas in the past and it’s so wonderful to see her bring home a great one. Well done! Meanwhile, Sandra Gustafsson and Koordinat have two stops at the cottage at The Homestead (fence 16) and have called it a day. Maarten Boon and Gravin van Cantos opt for the long route at the ditch and rails at 11.

7:37 a.m. EST: Jennie is bold and clear through the water at 20!

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

7:31 a.m. EST: Ah, Jordy Wilken falls from Curacao at the final corner at 25 after the horse twisted a bit on the air and couldn’t stick the landing. Susie Berry has also picked up a runout on course, I believe at the corners at 17/18. We get a view of Jennie as she comes to the coffin — FE Lifestyle almost looked like he got off the line a bit but they’re safely through!

The loneliest place on the cross country course. GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

7:28 a.m. EST: And away goes Jennie Brannigan with FE Lifestyle!

7:24 a.m. EST: Italy’s Tosca Brambilla and Legaland Mood Swing have a refusal at the corner at 17 and later have a fall at the water at 20, much similar to Matt’s fall on landing. Ireland’s Susie Berry is now away with Ringwood LB.

7:22 a.m. EST: She’s done it! Despite the pressure, Sophie rebounded from Aachen, where she lost the lead due to time faults, and will keep her lead overnight now after coming home clear inside the time! Nicely done.

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

7:19 a.m. EST: Sidney Dufresne punches the air as he finishes inside the time with the Jaguar Mail stallion Tresor Mail. He’ll go into fourth place currently.

7:16 a.m. EST: Sophie Leube opts to take the longer route at the ditch and rails at 11. We’ll see if that affects her on the clock at all — remember, she has basically nothing in hand — one second, I think — to keep her lead. William, meanwhile, has slotted into second after his brilliant round, remaining on a score of 24.9.

7:14 a.m. EST: William and Grafennacht finish two seconds under the time with probably the smoothest and easiest-looking ride of the day. This mare has a lovely expression, shown here through the final water:

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

7:13 a.m. EST: Sophie Leube and Jadore Moi are on course!

7:10 a.m. EST: Overnight leaders Sophie Leube and Jadore Moi will be the next to see. We’re also joined by French team rider Sidney Dufresne and Tresor Mail.

7:08 a.m. EST: William makes the ditch and rails at 11 look like a schooling gymnastic, naturally.

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

7:06 a.m. EST: William Fox-Pitt is now on course with the lovely mare Grafennacht. This is another pair in strong contention, coming forward on a score of 24.9. Lina Forsberg and Kaizen finish their round four seconds in the time — this was a really cool pair to watch. Meanwhile, Belgian Olympian Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Cascaria V are clear on the direct route at the final water.

7:03 a.m. EST: Sydney is 10 SECONDS inside the time! She adds no marks to her dressage score and gets a huge hug from coach Erik Duvander at the finish. Well done!

7:02 a.m. EST: Sydney has to work to keep QC Diamantaire on the line to the corner at 25, and he kicks the flag out to the right but is clearly through.

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

7:00 a.m. EST: Gosh, what a round Sydney is having! Brilliant through the water at 20. Meanwhile, Sweden’s Lina Forsberg takes the long route at 11 with the very bold Kaizen.

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

6:57 a.m. EST: Sydney and QC Diamantaire have a brilliant ride through the ditch and rails at 11 as well as the brush to corner at 12. Sydney is really riding forward and keeping her horse out in front of her so she can be efficient and agile.

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

6:55 a.m. EST: Tim is going to pick up time penalties with a time of 10:53 but a wonderful round with a confident-finishing horse!

 

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6:54 a.m. EST: Tim is carrying a bit of brush on his right foot — if he ends up with any time penalties surely we can just blame it on the extra drag?

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

6:52 a.m. EST: Tim and Lady Chin are sharp through the final water, going long but not losing any time. And our next U.S. rider, Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire, are away!

6:49 a.m. EST: And away now we see Ireland’s Padraig McCarthy with Tokyo Phil. Tim Lips shows his guts at the ditch rail at C and he’s safely through that troublesome question.

6:46 a.m. EST: Another one who reads the hanging log at 5 just fine will be Tim and Lady Chin. A look at the drop question at 4, the Batenburg Bank:

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

6:43 a.m. EST: Dutch rider Tim Lips and student/Chinese Olympian Huadong Sun’s Lady Chin van’t Moerven Z are away. There has, surprisingly, never been a Dutch winner on home turf here at Boekelo, but Tim finds himself in good position in second on score of 24.5.

6:42 a.m. EST: Uhlan de l’Epine has a look to get down the big drop at the Batenburg Bank found early on at 4, but they’re clear there as well as over that hanging log at 5.

6:40 a.m. EST: Looks like we are getting set to proceed as Italy’s Giulio Guglielmi and Uhlan de l’Epine are away.

6:36 a.m. EST: Just on a bit of a hold now, maybe for the Ground Jury to take a look at that hanging log that has become quite problematic.

6:30 a.m. EST: Oh gosh, Mighty Spring also takes a look at the hanging log at 5, goes to jump but then hangs at the knees almost and very nearly has a rotational fall. Heike takes a moment to get up but now she’s on her feet — what a bummer. This fence definitely is looking funny to the horses.

6:26 a.m. EST: A bit of a break now in between riders, and our next to see will be Germany’s Heike Jahncke and Mighty Spring.

6:23 a.m. EST: Bummer — Camille’s weekend comes to an end after he and Dame Decoeur Tardonne have a stop at the narrow arrowhead at 27. This was their third on course and so close to the end!

6:20 a.m. EST: Quite a few riders are kicking out the left side flat at the corner at 17. No flag penalties as of yet, as everyone looks to be getting their horse safely through, but that jump judge is busy today!

6:19 a.m. EST: Nicola Wilson is the first one to come home inside the time with a finish of 10:05 aboard Coolparks Sarco. She slots in just behind the clubhouse leader, Tamie and Danito.

6:15 a.m. EST: French team rider Camille Lejeune and Dame Decoeur Tardonne have a stop at the hanging log at 5 — this is not the first one we’ve seen take a hard look here so there must be an issue with light there. Nicola Wilson has to call on her skills a bit to get Coolparks Sarco through the final water but they make short work of the direct work. Camile now has a drive-by at the C element of fence 11.

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

6:12 a.m. EST: Just in from Tamie: turns out her watch stopped during her round, so she had to ride solely off her feel and this is the quickest she’s been able to go on Ruth Bley’s Danito to date. Hats off!

6:08 a.m. EST:

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

6:04 a.m. EST: Matt and Wizzerd are safely through the corners at 17 and 18. But — no! Wizzerd has a bit of a look and trip on landing into the water at 20, catching a foot and sending Matt out over his left shoulder. They are both fine, but what a bummer for this pair.

6:00 a.m. EST: Felicity Ward and Regal Bounty, riding for Ireland, safely navigate the direct route at the water at 20. Wizzerd sadly has a runout at the rails at C — Lucinda comments about the narrow ditch and the extra split second a horse might need to pick the C element up. Matt and Wizzerd are clear on their attempt at the option. Bummer!

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

5:58 a.m. EST: Perhaps another light issue, Wizzerd takes a hard look under the hanging log at 5, but he’s clear over it.

5:57 a.m. EST: Now on course are the second pair for the U.S., Matt Flynn and Wizzerd!

 

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5:55 a.m. EST: I think the shadows this morning are having a bit of an effect on some questions — and as I said earlier, combined with the relative inexperience of this field we’re seeing quite a few greener reads of some questions. Eveline Bertoli’s Fidjy des Melezes had a very bold, almost looky drop into the water at 20, which prompted Eveline to pull out for the alternate route. There is a very steep angled brush at a very short distance from the drop, so I think we’ll see a few more taking this alternative rather than risk a silly problem.

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

5:53 a.m. EST: Here’s a look at the ditch rail question at 11, as shown by Eveline Bertoli:

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

5:51 a.m. EST: A look at Tamie and Danito over the last! Time will tell how influential those two seconds of time will be at the end of the day, but for now they’re no worse than fifth.

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

5:48 a.m. EST: Germany’s Malin Hansen-Hotopp and Carlitos Quidditch K fly into the water at 20 and nearly lose their balance, forcing Malin to go for the alternate route to keep her round clean. Meanwhile, Fidjy des Melezes is another horse to look a bit surprised at the C element of the ditch and rail coffin question with Italian team rider Eveline Bertoli, but this pair gets away clear.

5:43 a.m. EST: French rider Gireg le Coz has a runout at the C element of the coffin at 11 with Caramel d’Orchis — this looks like it might be an influential question as the day progresses due to the tricky nature of the line (which does seem to be subject to shadows right now) as well as the inexperience of some of these horses.

5:39 a.m. EST: And Tamie is home clear! She was originally given a 20 at fence 23 but that has been removed and she finishes in a time of 10:18 — just 2 seconds of time over! I apologize for the lack of GIFs in these updates, I’m just dealing with a slow upload so I’ll sprinkle them in as I can! Here’s a look at Tamie over the corner at 25:

GIF via ClipMyHorse.TV.

5:35 a.m. EST: Ugh, I jinxed Brian as he had a runout at fence 23, but hey — with an 8-year-old, who looks to finish with his ears pricked still, this is still a fantastic effort. Tamie is shown as clear through fence 19 on fence reports. We finally see her coming through the water at 20, a bit squirrely at the angled brush out, but clear!

5:34 a.m. EST: Well we’ve barely seen Tamie on the stream so I will update you as soon as we can catch up with her.

5:33 a.m. EST: Gosh, how cool is Global DHI? He’s just eight years old, but he’s so bold and keen he looks more mature than his age would suggest. He navigates the water at 20 greenly but there really doesn’t ever look to be a question of whether or not he’s going to go!

5:29 a.m. EST: Sanne de Jong has a bit of a Jesus take the wheel moment at the water at 20, having to lean back and slip the reins to allow Enjoy to navigate the severely angled brush out of the question.

5:27 a.m. EST: Ingrid finishes with Equistro’s Siena Just Do It with some big pats — this will have been a learning moment for this pair and this feisty mare is surely one to watch as she continues to mature. We’ve just spotted Tamie in the start box with Danito!

5:25 a.m. EST: French rider Sanne de Jong and Enjoy have a hard look at the brush corner at 12B but is clear on the option. We’re also joined by Ireland’s Brian Morrison and the 8-year-old Global DHI.

5:22 a.m. EST: Bummer! Siena Just Do It just doesn’t quite see the narrow rails coming out of the coffin at 11 and has a run out to the left. She’s through the option, but a rather green moment and a disappointing 20 to boot here.

5:17 a.m. EST: And she’s away! Ingrid now joins us on course with another young horse, the 9-year-old Equistro’s Siena Just Do It.

5:13 a.m. EST: We’re treated to some great commentary as usual today from Spencer Sturmey, who is joined this weekend by Lucinda Green.

5:11 a.m. EST: Right, I think I’ve gotten myself in a working order here, just as our first pair of the day, Benjamin Massie and the 9-year-old Climaine de Cacao, have completed the track on a clear round. They’ve collected one second of time to add just .4 to their dressage score of 36.1. We’ll next see Germany’s Ingrid Klimke and Equistro’s Siena Just Do It, coming on a score of 29.2 and 20th position (yes, a sub-30 still will only get you a spot in the top 20 in this ultra-competitive field).

5:08 a.m. EST: I’m currently working through some technical difficulties with the live stream, so thanks for bearing with me!

Don’t Miss Out on the Eventing Extravaganza Happening at TerraNova’s First FEI Event This Month

By on Oct 8, 2021 4:35 pm -

Photo courtesy of TerraNova Equestrian Center.

You’ve seen the sneak peeks at the gorgeous TerraNova Equestrian venue in Myakka City, Fl., and now you can snag the chance to take your horse for a spin at the brand-new facility hosting its first recognized/FEI event October 22-24. If you haven’t sent in your entry for the weekend — which will offer national divisions (with prize money for all!) from Starter up through Intermediate as well as FEI divisions from CCI1*-S through CCI4*-S — you’ve got some extra time thanks to a closing date extension through Tuesday, October 12. The headline CCI4*-S division will compete for $17,500 in prize money, but there is cash to be won in each and every class at TerraNova.

Riders competing at TerraNova also have a unique opportunity to help make a difference for a variety of local nonprofit organizations that have been selected as beneficiaries of grants after the event concludes. Each rider will have the opportunity to select and ride for one of three charity partners in the competition: Southeastern Guide Dogs, Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee and Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy. This will then be turned into a team style competition, with collective scores counted and the winning “team” determining the highest grant recipient. Grants will range from $10,000 for the winning organization to $5,000 for the third-placed team/organization.

For spectators (or riders who like to have a good time!), there is also a full slate of VIP Experience options to take in the event in style. With options that include full-service catering and bar options, comfortable seating, and the best views of competition, there is an experience for everyone who wants to make a weekend out of the TerraNova event.

“We are looking forward to a great event and opening the facility for the first time,” TerraNova owners Hannah and Zach Ketelboeter said. “The courses look fantastic, and we can’t wait to see everyone enjoying it.” Captain Mark Phillips, assisted by Mogie Bearden-Muller who has also designed the CCI1*-S, CCI2*-S and national levels, is the designer for the CCI3*-S and CCI4*-S this weekend. Nick Granat will design the show jumping courses. “It has been an incredible journey that I have been honored to have been part of and that I’ve rarely been as proud of anything in my life,” Sara Kozumplik Murphy, who has been involved with TerraNova on multiple fronts since the facility’s infancy, commented.

To learn more about The Event at TerraNova, including how to enter, click here.

Oliver Townend is Teaching a One Day Clinic at Appleton Equestrian on October 11

By on Oct 8, 2021 3:50 pm -

Oliver Townend and Ballaghmor Class. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

FEI Eventing world #1-ranked rider, three-time Kentucky Three-Day winner, and recent Olympic gold medalist Oliver Townend is coming to compete for the crown at the inaugural Maryland 5 Star, but before he gets down to business he’s stopping at Juli Sebring’s Appleton Equestrian facility to teach a one day clinic on Monday, October 11.

This will be a very limited opportunity, but there are still a couple of spots available for riders who want to learn from Oliver. Auditing spots are also available for $25. The clinic will begin at 2 p.m. on Monday at Appleton Equestrian (1966 Appleton Road, Elkton, Maryland 21921), and riders will be divided into combined groups by level. The cost for riding in this clinic is $375.

To learn more and to sign up for the clinic, visit Strider here. Oliver will also be riding Juli’s CCI3*-L horse, Ulises, who he campaigned through the CCI4* level before the gelding was sold to Juli, at Maryland next week.

Enter to Win VIP Passes to the Maryland 5 Star!

By on Oct 8, 2021 1:46 pm -

We couldn’t celebrate the opening of the second North American five-star without a bit of a party, so we’re inviting you to join us in Maryland next week with a giveaway of two VIP passes to the event! Here’s a look at what’s up for grabs:

Tier 2 West Grandstand Club 4-Day Package Pass (Single Pass x 2): This Pass offers access to an exclusive club experience (Cincoro Club) to purchasers for all four competition days and phases of the event. 4-DAY PASSES ARE INCLUSIVE OF GENERAL ADMISSION PASSES AND RESERVED SEATS FOR THE DAYS INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE.

Tier 2 West Grandstand Club 4-Day Passes grant you the following benefits for all four days of the event:

  • Front and center reserved, covered bleacher seating within the Tier 2 West Grandstand
  • Reserved seat remains reserved for your use on Saturday for viewing and enjoyment of equine demonstrations taking place in the Main Arena.
  • Premium rail-side view of elite competition taking place in the Main Arena
  • Access to the exclusive Cincoro Club located directly behind the Tier 2 West Grandstand. Cincoro Club amenities include:
  • Gourmet catering by The Classic Catering People available for purchase
  • Catering offerings to include:
  • Continental Breakfast Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
  • Buffet Lunch on Thursday, Friday and Sunday
  • Boxed Lunch on Saturday
  • Variety of Beverages
  • Full Service Bar
  • TV screens so you don’t miss any of the Main Arena Action
  • Climate control for increased comfort regardless of the days’ weather
  • Private Bathrooms
  • One (1) VIP Parking Pass valid for all four days
  • Admittance into the event venue and all the amenities as outlined for General Admission including:
  • Admittance into the event venue, including unlimited infield access
  • Access to GA bleacher seating in designated areas of the North Aintree Grandstand
  • Unlimited access to our curated Retail Vendor Areas
  • On-site fan activations
  • Wide variety of food and beverage offerings
  • Access to viewing around the Warm-Up and Practice Arenas
  • Access to viewing of the Young Event Horse Competition (Thursday and Friday only)
  • Access to walk the entirety of the new Cross Country Courses up close and personal to all the action with purchase for Saturday

Sounds fun, right? We agree! It’s easy to enter: simply use the form below or click here to sign up for the Eventing Nation Maryland 5 Star Daily Digest, which will begin sending on Wednesday, October 13. You must sign up by 12 p.m. EST on Monday, October 11 — the winner (one winner will receive two passes) will be drawn and notified via email and in this post Monday afternoon.

Good luck and we’ll see you in Maryland!

EDIT: Congratulations to our winner, Joanna Y.! Joanna, please check your email for communications regarding your VIP passes. Enjoy your weekend!

P.S.: If you’d still like to receive our Maryland Daily Digest email, you can sign up here.

Your Guide to the Military Boekelo CCIO4*-L Nations Cup

By on Oct 6, 2021 11:17 pm -

Eventing Nation’s coverage of Boekelo is brought to you by Kentucky Performance Products, our go-to source for the best support your horse can get. With a full line of proven supplements designed to help your horse feel his or her best, you can have peace of mind knowing that Kentucky Performance Products has your horse’s top health in mind. Learn more about KPP by visiting kppusa.com.

By the time you read this, we’ll likely be underway in The Netherlands, about two hours to the east of Amsterdam at Military Boekelo. This fall destination event features the finale of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup, and Team USA stands in a strong position to be a contender here this weekend. The U.S. will also have three individual combinations competing in the CCIO4*-L.

Tilly Berendt is our reporter on the ground this weekend, and you can bookmark this hub for relevant information and links to follow along all throughout.

What’s at stake? This is the fifth and final leg of the 2021 FEI Eventing Nations Cup, which is held annually over a series of up to eight events at the CCI4* level. This year, due to cancelations of Nations Cup legs at Bromont and Ballendenisk, only five of the original seven legs will have been held. This series finale is also the sole long format event of the Nations Cup. Sweden currently holds the lead on an accumulated total of 240 points, but it’s a three-horse race for the next  spot as Italy, Germany and Belgium are all on 180 points. This is the first leg of the Nations Cup that the U.S. has participated in this year, primarily due to ongoing Covid precautions. However, USEF Eventing High Performance Director Erik Duvander has emphasized his intention to prioritize this event as a regular stop for U.S. teams looking to gain some practice in a higher pressure environment. Many of the American riders this week are here thanks to the support of the Jacqueline B. Mars International Competition & Training Grants and the Karen E. Stives Endowment Fund Grant

How do I watch?: There is a live stream of all phases of competition thanks to ClipMyHorse.TV’s partnership with FEI TV. You will need to purchase or sign up for a free trial of a Premium subscription in order to view the cross country phase. Generally, CMH.TV is quite quick to put up replays, so chances are you’ll be able to follow along fairly closely even if you opt not to wake up at 3 a.m. each morning. Click here for the Boekelo live stream schedule.

Team USA’s schedule: The U.S. is represented by a total of seven combinations this weekend, four of whom will serve as members of the Nations Cup team. The U.S. contingent’s ride times are as follows (we will update this post with cross country times following dressage):

THURSDAY 10/7 – Cross Country 

  • Tamie Smith and Danito: 10.28 a.m. local/4.28 a.m. Eastern
  • Matt Flynn and Wizzerd: 11.32 a.m. local/5.32 a.m. Eastern
  • Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire: 12.35 p.m. local/6.35 a.m. Eastern
  • Jennie Brannigan and FE Lifestyle: 2.49 p.m. local/8.49 a.m. Eastern

FRIDAY 10/8 – Cross Country

  • Hallie Coon and Global Ex: 11:26 a.m. local/5:26 a.m. Eastern
  • Katie Ruppel and Houdini: 12:35 a.m. local/6:35 a.m. Eastern
  • Tamie Smith and Solaguayre California: 2:49 p.m. local/8:49 a.m. Eastern

Who are the officials? The Ground Jury will be presided over by New Zealand’s Andrew Bennie, who will be joined by Sweden’s Christina Klingspor and Dutch member Merel Schurink. British designer Adrian Ditcham has designed the cross country track and Dutch designer Kris van Gelder will handle the layout of the show jumping.

Where do I find ride times and scores? All timing and scoring is kept on Rechenstelle, so keep this link handy all weekend. The schedule for the weekend can be found here.

How do I follow EN’s coverage? EN’s coverage of Boekelo, which is brought to you thanks to support from Kentucky Performance Products, can be found at this tag and nonstop right here on EventingNation.com as well as our Instagram, @goeventing. Thanks for following along!

Military Boekelo/FEI Eventing Nations Cup CCIO4*-L: Website, Start Lists + Scores, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Wednesday Social Media from Boekelo: Do as the Dutch Do

By on Oct 6, 2021 5:30 pm -

Eventing Nation’s coverage of Boekelo is brought to you by Kentucky Performance Products, our go-to source for the best support your horse can get. With a full line of proven supplements designed to help your horse feel his or her best, you can have peace of mind knowing that Kentucky Performance Products has your horse’s top health in mind. Learn more about KPP by visiting kppusa.com.

 

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A post shared by Tamie Smith (@tsmitheventing)

Kicking off the week at Boekelo typically involves a welcome bash-induced hangover (or, so I’m told at least, having never ventured over to the land of the Dutch myself), but most everyone managed to make it to and through the first horse inspection this afternoon. Boekelo is always a favorite of mine each year (and a warm welcome back this year, at that!) as it just looks like a fun event. Yes, it’s the Nations Cup finale. Yes, it’s a serious long-format with an equally serious entry list. But man, it looks like a good time. And at under two hours from Amsterdam, you’ve got ample option for a post-event vacation spot, too.

Anyway, I digress — the point is, we’re ready to party all week long as we do as the Dutch do and enjoy a good weekend of fall eventing. Tilly is on the ground in The Netherlands (no, we don’t ever let her go home) this week and we’re, of course, cheering hard for Team USA as they look to finish the weekend in strong contention.

Without further ado, let’s take a scroll through Instagram at some of the highlights from trot-up day:

 

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A post shared by Jennie Brannigan (@branniganeventing)

 

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A post shared by Ingrid Klimke (@ingridklimke)

 

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A post shared by Thierry van Reine (@thierryvanreine)

 

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Military Boekelo: [Website] [Entries and Live Scoring] [Live-Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Learning at EQUITANA USA: Inside Phillip Dutton’s Clinic on Jumping with Green Horses

By on Oct 6, 2021 2:30 pm -

Dual Olympic Gold Medalist Phillip Dutton teaches the nuances of equestrian competition at EQUITANA USA. Photo courtesy of EQUITANA USA.

There’s never a bad time to take part in an opportunity to learn, and when eventer Kelly Jarvis saw that Phillip Dutton was teaching a clinic at Equitana USA last weekend at the Kentucky Horse Park, she jumped at the chance. She got even more than she bargained for when she found herself as, for the first part of the session at least, she was the sole participant on the first day of the clinic. Kelly brought her 7-year-old off-track Thoroughbred, Watson, to tackle a session focused on introducing jumping to green horses, and she took a few minutes to fill us in on some of the main takeaways from an incredible learning experience that even saw Phillip get on Watson for a part of the lesson.

With jumping a green horse, being forward is the number one priority, if they’re not forward at every jump, it quickly becomes unsafe.

Leg on means GO! Watson was kicking at my leg when we were doing flat work which caused issues almost immediately when we started jumping. Phillip was able to keep his leg on strong enough to get the message across that leg on means go and bucking wasn’t going to take that leg away.

When there are holes in your training, they will eventually shine through and it’s best to find the holes and patch them sooner rather than later.

Even with green horses, it’s important to start working on adjustability in your horse’s stride early on so you have options when you go to ask for transitions. We practiced this on the flat because forward doesn’t always mean running.

Unless you have a horse that bolts or rushes jumps, always canter away from the jump and go straight rather than turning immediately.

If your horse chooses to run out to the left, you immediately turn right and vice versa so you don’t agree with your horse that running out is okay.

When Phillip Dutton asks you if he can hop on your horse, you always say yes! It was an excellent learning opportunity for the both of us. My next ride was completely different, he was immediately responsive to my leg and our transitions happened the first time I asked rather than at the fourth or fifth ask.

“Overall it was such a great experience and opportunity that I plan to sign up for every chance I get in the future,” Kelly said. “The atmosphere, the education, and getting to ride in the famous Rolex arena was an unforgettable experience that couldn’t have been possible without Equitana.”

Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Oct 6, 2021 12:01 am -

Caitlin Gooch (Saddle Up and Read), Carson Cressley, Emily and Sarah Harris (Sisters Horsing Around), and Sydney Collier (Paralympian – Paradressage) at EQUITANA USA. Photo via Caitlin Gooch.

I’m still just so happy I was able to make it to EQUITANA USA this year, and some of the people I was lucky enough to meet really made it an unforgettable weekend. The exhibition and trade show focused around a theme of “Discovering Diversity”, showcasing the brilliant variety of horse sports and disciplines as well as the enthusiasts who also represent a wide variety of backgrounds. We get so stuck in a bubble, following one sport the majority of the time — this was a nice reminder that our world is just one small part of a larger universe revolving around a common thread of love of the horse.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Morven Park International CCI4*-L (Leesburg, Va.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Schedule] [Volunteer]

Woodside International H.T. (Woodside, Ca.): [Website] [Volunteer] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Heritage Park H.T. (Olathe, Ks.): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Hitching Post Farm H.T. (South Royalton, Vt.): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Poplar Place Farm H.T. (Hamilton, Ga.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

Radnor Hunt H.T. (Malvern, Pa.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

WindRidge Farm H.T. (Mooresboro, Nc.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Major International Events

Military Boekelo Enschede CCIO4*-L & FEI Nations Cup of Eventing: [Website] [Info Hub] [Entries] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Wednesday Reading List:

The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials will have a new Event Director at the helm after the appointment of Martyn Johnson. Prior to accepting this position, Martyn served as Event Director for Burgham International as well as Sport Director for the Event Rider Masters series. More on the appointment here.

Nominations are now open for the 2021 USEA Appreciation Awards! These awards were created as an opportunity for the eventing community to recognize and honor people who have served the sport tirelessly both in a non-riding capacity and riding capacity. The deadline for submitting nominations is October 31 — you can find a description of the awards acceptation nominations and more information on how to submit here.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to vote for our eventing friends (particularly supergroom Stephanie Simspon!) in the 2021 FEI Awards — learn more here.

The application deadline for the Strides for Equality Equestrians Ever So Sweet scholarship is rapidly approaching! Have you applied yet? Learn more here.

Morven Park riders: be sure to take advantage of several course walk opportunities at the inaugural CCI4*-L and Horse Trials this weekend. Walk the CCI4* track with Phyllis Dawson on Friday, October 8 and the Novice, Training and Preliminary courses with Lisa Bauman, Lynn Symansky and Meghan O’Donoghue, respectively on Saturday, October 9. Times for all walks are TBA — click here to learn more.

See who will be representing the on-fire Team GB at this weekend’s Nation’s Cup leg, happening at Boekelo.

International show jumper Mavis Spencer recently took up steaming hay for her string of competition horses. It was a groom’s perspective that helped turn her on to the idea, and soon she saw for herself how beneficial the steamed hay was, especially when her horses were on the road traveling to shows. Read more in this Haygain blog.

Watch This:

Ever wondered what it’s like to be an eventing influencer? H&C+ followed along with four eventing stars as they venture to training camp for a new series available worldwide on the H&C+ platform. New episodes every two weeks, and the first is already up and ready for watching. Click here to sign up — it’s well worth it!

Wednesday Video Break:

Take a look at the beautiful grounds hosting Boekelo’s CCIO4*-L this weekend:

WHAT A VIEW 👀

From the stables to the main area 🙏🏻

Founders Military Boekelo Military Boekelo – Enschede #mbe21 #MBE2021

Posted by Military Boekelo – Enschede on Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Tickets for the 2022 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Are Now On Sale!

By on Oct 5, 2021 11:00 am -

Photo by Sally Spickard.

The moment you’ve all been waiting for is here! Tickets for the 2022 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event are now on sale, and with next year slated to be the first spectator-friendly edition of the event since 2019 it’s sure to be a full weekend of eventing greatness. The 2022 event is scheduled to run April 28 through May 1. Fans can also reserve tailgating spots (pro tip: these sell fast and it’s recommended you reserve yours immediately) and/or VIP hospitality packages to complement their weekend.

To pick up your tickets, visit https://kentuckythreedayevent.com/tickets/. We can’t wait to see you in Kentucky next spring!

Who Jumped It Best? Jump Start Training Level Edition

By on Oct 5, 2021 9:00 am -

While at Equitana USA this past weekend, we got a chance to wander over to catch some of the action at Jump Start, which was running concurrently and also hosting Area VIII’s 2021 Championships. I was able to catch just a few riders tackling Cathy Weischhoff’s cross country course on Friday evening at the end of our day at Equitana, so I thought I’d compile them for a quick edition of Who Jumped It Best?

The majority of the riders pictured hail from the Training Amateur Championship division, though we also have a few appearances from other Training divisions. Apologies for not being able to capture more, but you know the drill! Cast your vote for the pair presenting the best overall picture of harmony using the poll below. Bragging points and EN karma to the winner!

Sophie Coorssen and Coolnaboy Rubens. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Hayley Barbato and Whiskey Road. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Lydia Eifler and Hans Christian. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Maria Temperini and The Flying Dutchman. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Lily Callahan and Royal Crest’s Granite Permission. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Scott Owens and Summer Knight. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Bailey Hennings and Floral Clock. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Erin Neville and Bluestone. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Ruth Rosendaul and Kaloosh. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feeds

By on Oct 5, 2021 12:01 am -

Lily Callahan and Royal Crest’s Granite Permission. Photo by Sally Spickard.

I’m dedicating today’s News & Notes to all of our eventers out there riding horses “of a different color”, aka breeds you typically might not expect to see doing the sport. Truthfully, the term “horse of a different color” in this context is really a bit exclusionary. After all, haven’t we been shown time and time again that just about any horse can at least dabble in eventing? Name a breed of horse, or a mix of breeds, and you’re likely to find one eventing somewhere — this is one of the things I love the most about the sport. Going on a (I’ll try to keep it brief) tangent, I’m re-reading Malcolm Gladwell’s book Blink, which dives into the nitty-gritty of the snap judgement and first impression and how humans are driven by these instincts at a very basic, unconscious level. Just as with everything else, our lives and experiences have shaped our perspective and therefore affect our first impressions.

I bet if you asked a fair majority of eventing enthusiasts what type of horse they pictured when the term “event horse” is mentioned, they’d tell you they saw an athletic, lean, rangy, powerful horse with good conformation, correct gaits, and a powerful gallop and jump. Sure, the eventing archetype may look a lot like this — but event horses come in all shapes, sizes and colors (just as event riders do!). I attended the Equitana USA exhibition this past weekend and was treated to a display of all sorts of disciplines, breeds and riders. Honestly? It was sort of refreshing to be at an event that wasn’t only for eventers — but of course, I did seek out the eventers!

Lily Callahan and Royal Crest’s Granite Permission, her 18-year-old American Saddlebred gelding, were one pair I had the privilege of meeting this weekend. Lily was kind enough to venture over to participate in the Equitana USA American Saddlebred demo shortly before heading out to cross country, where she was competing for the Area VIII Training level title at Jump Start. Lily’s had her Saddlebred for several years, moving through the levels and competing through Modified. They went on to finish 10th in the Training Amateur Championship over the weekend, setting a grand example as ambassadors of the breed while they were at it.

We want to showcase more of these event horses of all types — please tip us by emailing [email protected] and show off your horse!

Events Closing Today: Waredaca Classic Three-Day Event & H.T., The Event at TerraNova, Tryon Riding & Hunt Club “Morris the Horse” Trials, Windermere Run H.T., Holly Hill H.T., Fresno County Horse Park H.T. (Oct), Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event

Events Opening Today: Fresno County Horse Park H.T. (Nov), SAzEA Fall H.T.

Tuesday News:

We are rapidly approaching blanketing season, and our friends at SmartPak want to kit your horse out with the latest and greatest in warmth. As a part of a mega giveaway period on SmartPak, you can enter to win two blankets this week just in time for the cooler temperatures. Click here to submit your entry — and be sure to keep an eye on SmartPak over the next few weeks for new giveaways.

Go behind the scenes at the #1 ranked UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and how its future Equine Performance and Rehabilitation Center will enable an Olympic-level approach to sport horse health and injury prevention in a free virtual event open to the public entitled “Going for Gold: Setting the Standard for Equine Athletes”. Attendees will also learn about the unmatched educational opportunities the center will provide to veterinary students. You can register for this free event here.

Jordán Linstedt has had more than her share of ups and downs when it comes to life and horses. In the latest issue of Sidelines Magazine, Jordán reflects on her horse of a lifetime, the late RevitaVet Capato, motherhood, and what the future holds — you can read the article here.

Multiple factors need to be considered when it comes to safety in eventing. Five-star rider Jon Holling and Landsafe co-founder Danny Warrington discussed some important topics pertaining to safety at the USEA Event College at AEC last month. Read their thoughts on selecting a trainer, schooling safety, moving up and more here.

Hot on Horse Nation: Just-in feedback on the newly-released essay collection, Horse Girls, edited by Halimah Marcus: “Recovering, aspiring, and devoted riders redefine the iconic bond,” states the cover – Horse Girls is an essay collection exploring what it means to be a “horse girl.” Edited by Halimah Marcus, it features essays from instantly recognizable names, like Jane Smiley, but also plenty of work from authors not quite as well-known. The book showcases the diversity of the horse world, featuring works from authors around the world, from Black authors, Pakistani authors, authors with Native American heritage, LGBTQ+ authors and transgender authors and that is what makes it great. Read the review here.

Tuesday Video Break:

Fresh off their trip to Tokyo, Australia’s Stuart and Karen Tinney sat down to answer some questions for Horseland Australia:

Weekend Winners: Areas II and VIII Crown Champions + More!

By on Oct 4, 2021 1:00 pm -

It’s Area Championship season as we get into the thick of the fall competition calendar, and we saw champions from both Area II and Area VIII take home their prizes over the weekend. Let’s jump right in!

This week’s Unofficial Low Score award was a battle of the 19s, but eventually it was Hannah Reeser and Ltl Ireland Summr Soldier, competing in the Area VIII Beginner Novice Amateur Championship, would took the top honors with a finishing score of 19.3 at Jump Start. Ltl Ireland Summr Soldier is a 2014 Morgan mare, and this pair is no stranger to competitive scores on the flat! Their personal best together came at this same event in 2019, where they earned a 15.5 to win the Beginner Novice Amateur Championship. They also finished third in the same division at this year’s USEA American Eventing Championships, also held at Kentucky Horse Park. Many congratulations, you two!

Coming closely behind Hannah and also finishing on scores in the 19s this week are Adalee Ladwig and Argenta MSF (Jump Start – Area VIII Open Novice Championship) and Julie Augustine and Texas Riddle (Maryland – Area II Novice Championship), who each ended on a score of 19.8. Well done to all!

Editor’s Note: As of publication, Facebook and Instagram are still down, so we’ll update this post with social media once they’re back up and running!

Fleur de Leap H.T. (Folsom, La.): [Website] [Results]

Training: Emily Jackson and Southern Reserver ERE (83.7)
Training/Novice: Margaret Morgan and Kegan MacCruise (37.1)
Novice: Kalie Beckers and Calla GBF (28.3)
Novice Junior: Hudsyn Bagwell and Ardeo Mermus Hill (37.4)
Beginner Novice: Ginny Harrison and Romeo Alfa R (31.8)
Beginner Novice Junior: Ann Parker Meyers and Lean Upon Me (34.3)
Novice/Beginner Novice: Hannah Reynolds and Painted Postcard (32.6)
Introductory: Delanie Ward and Wish Upon A Star (37.0)
Starter: McMillan Williams and Misty’s Sorrento Breeze (35.8)
Starter Junior: Victoria Sudkamp and Razzles (32.8)

Jump Start H.T. and Area VIII Championships (Lexington, Ky.): [Website] [Results]

Intermediate Championship: Dan Kreitl and Horales (46.0)
Open Intermediate: Allie Knowles and Street Call (50.7)
Open Preliminary Div 1: Benjamin Noonan and Keep Kitty (30.7)
Open Preliminary Div 2: Liz Halliday-Sharp and FE Caison (24.4)
Preliminary Championship: Maxine Preston and Wants To Be Cooley (32.2)
Open Training: Marty Riney and George Alexander (28.3)
Open Training Championship: Adalee Ludwig and Diego (29.1)
Open Training Junior Championship: Lydia Eifler and Hans Christian (25.0)
Training Amateur Championship: Cora Severs and Cuervo (25.2)
Training Horse: Ciaran Thompson and Ooh La La SCF (29.2)
Training Rider Div 1: Jenny Lackey and Dallo de la Galerna (25.5)
Training Rider Div 2: Micki McDaniel and Magic Artist (30.9)
Novice Amateur Championship: Jane Musselman and Bentley’s Best (25.5)
Novice Horse: Julia Spatt and Uptown Funk (25.7)
Novice Junior Championship: Victoria Baugh and Curioso (28.3)
Novice Rider Div 1: Ansley Whitehouse and Dynamic Knight (32.3)
Novice Rider Div 2: Erin Kowalewski and HSH Lastikko (21.7)
Novice Rider Div 3: Madeline Bletzacker and Landtino S (28.6)
Open Novice: Megan Edwards and Galwaybay HSH (24.1)
Open Novice Championship: Adalee Ladwig and Argenta MSF (19.8)
Beginner Novice Amateur Championship: Hannah Reeser and Ltl Ireland Summr Soldier (19.3)
Beginner Novice Horse: Tate Northrop and Bourbon Boy (26.8)
Beginner Novice Jr. Championship: Maggie Hahn and Duchess (32.0)
Beginner Novice Rider Div 1: Ajay Ryan and Cool Under Fire (32.5)
Beginner Novice Rider Div 2: Lindsay Parsley and Kilkenny Mile (28.0)
Open Beginner Novice: Kaylianna McMorris and Fernhill Future Star (28.0)
Open Beginner Novice Championship: Anika Hawes and Can Do Man (27.3)
Starter Div 1: Brittany Wilson and Playboy (26.3)
Starter Div 2: Danielle Northup and Charley (30.0)
Starter Div 3: Erika Adams and Girl On Fire (28.5)

Larkin Hill H.T. (North Chatham, Ny.): [Website] [Scores]

**Larkin Hill was run as a CT due to weather, and we are told the scoring reflects the final placings. We apologize if any of the results from this show are incorrect!**

Preliminary CT: Booli Selmayr and Carnivale King (28.7)
Training CT: Kate Day and Fortissimo (26.6)
Open Novice A: Emilie Smith and Kildare’s BGS Destination Street (32.6)
Open Novice B: Alexander Conrad and Lexington II (22.6)
Introductory A: Hayden Aureli and Number Nine (33.9)
Introductory B: Miriam Evans and Sunny (24.7)
Open Beginner Novice A: Sophia Grace and Craig Mor Tom (27.0)
Open Beginner Novice B: Alexander Conrad and Sequel (26.5)
Open Beginner Novice C: Morgen M Bowers and Joya de Esmeralda (28.5)

Thank you to Joan Davis of Flatlandsfoto for sharing these winner shots from Larkin Hill! Don’t forget to support your show photographers — Larkin Hill riders can order their shots from this weekend here.

The Maryland H.T. at Loch Moy Farm + Area II Championships (Adamstown, Md.): [Website] [Results]

Intermediate Championships: Tim Bourke and Quality Explosion (43.4)
Open Intermediate: Anna Loschiavo and Fernhill That Guy Jack (45.9)
Open Preliminary: Ryan Wood and Bellavista (38.9)
Preliminary Championships: Martin Douzant and Olympus (34.0)
Modified A: Holly Shade and Hang on Caitlyn (32.1)
Modified B: Tim Bourke and Kung Fu Quality (35.1)
Modified C: Lindsay Kelley and Plumes (31.9)
Modified Championships: Courtney Cooper and Briarhill Excel Star Take 2 (29.5)
Junior Open Training: Jenna Levesque and Paprika (36.8)
Junior Training Championships: Sydney Sturgill and Papa Pablo (42.4)
Open Training: Lexi Scovil and SH Just For Laughs (23.6)
Training Championships: Ashley Trier and LNJ Encyclopedia (30.2)
Training Rider: Kenya Siepser and Charlie Hustle (41.2)
Junior Novice Championships: Leeci Rowsell and Man of Conviction (30.2)
Junior Open Novice: Catherine Kelly and Cooley Meridian (36.4)
Novice Championships: Julie Augustine and Texas Riddle (19.8)
Novice Rider A: Cassandra Strobel and Weather Advisory (31.2)
Novice Rider B: Alexandria Huber and Willy Wonka (31.7)
Open Novice: Kate Coleman and Calloway (22.4)
Beginner Novice Championships: Rebecca Barber and Here and Now (29.5)
Beginner Novice Rider: Sonja Tucker and Gustav (28.0)
Junior Beginner Novice: Daisy Shumaker and The Magician’s Nephew (38.5)
Junior Beginner Novice Championships: Willow Chase and Diablo (25.1)
Open Beginner Novice: Courtney Cooper and Excel Star Quidam’s Cavalier (24.3)

Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (Nashville, Tn.): [Website] [Results]

Training: Sydney Ayres and Pucon (30.9)
Novice: Chelsea Sawtell and Covenant (24.5)
Beginner Novice A: Kim Clark and Mimi’s Musical (22.3)
Beginner Novice B: Sofie Rhodes and Fly High Harvey (35.9)
Starter A: Anne Dottore and Admiralty (34.0)
Starter B: Olivia Trotter and Corner Oak Loch Lorian (39.3)

Moqui Meadows H.T. (Greeley, Co.): [Website] [Results]

Open Training: Julie Pawlak and Catch Me (39.7)
Open Novice A: Dean Santistevan and Vegas (33.1)
Open Novice B: Kara Miller and Chesterland’s Knockout (31.0)
Open Beginner Novice A: Sarah Richards and LaMarca WF (32.0)
Open Beginner Novice B: Emmy Williams and Fortunate Rebel (31.3)
Introductory A: Madeline Backus and Felix Felicis (23.9)
Introductory B: Lauren Fedorczyk and C3’s Playing With Fire (37.1)

Spokane Sport Horse Seventh Annual Fall H.T. (Spokane, Wa.): [Website] [Results]

CCI3*-S: Stephanie Cooper and Sketchy Past (46.2)
CCI2*-S: Ella Kurtz and Sportsfield Harley Davis (37.7)
Open Intermediate: Ashley Widmer and What Are The Odds (53.0)
Open Preliminary: Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14 (28.5)
Open Modified: Dane Padgett and Cafe Noir (27.8)
Junior Training: Ella Eisenbarth and Bryn Carregwen Serendipity (31.8)
Open Training: Whitney Spicher and Ballon (27.9)
Training Amateur: Kathryn Daniel and de la Renta (28.4)
Training Three-Day: Annie Budiselich and Bff Brushfire (33.5)
Junior Novice: Hanni Sreenan and Enchanted (29.8)
Novice Amateur: Sandy Flowers and Reno’s Lad (29.8)
Open Novice: Devin Robel and Gillou (21.2)
Novice Three-Day: Olivia Murphy and Navigator (26.8)
Beginner Novice Amateur: Emily Morrison and Finn (31.3)
Junior Beginner Novice: Piper Hale and Diavolo (29.0)
Open Beginner Novice: Natalie Sullivan and Liberia (32.3)
Beginner Novice Three-Day: Kady Ellifritz and Yankee Bay (29.7)
Introductory A: Whitney Spicher and Jaguar’s Jewell (26.9)
Introductory B: Kathy Rundhaug and Etched In Copper (38.2)
FEH 2 Year Old: Ghislaine Homan-Taylor and Trilogy (72.9)
FEH 3 Year Old: Tanya Adamson and Idaho’s Icewater (73.7)
FEH 4 Year Old: Mary Burke and Valinteno (73.0)
FEH Yearling: Julie Bishop and TBF Sweet Harmony (69.7)
YEH 4 Year Old: Sarah Sullivan and La Copine (81.6)
YEH 5 Year Old: Lois James and Copper Fox (83.7)

Sundance Farm H.T. (Plymouth, Wi.): [Website] [Results]

Open Preliminary: Rebecca Roth and Chapter Two (31.7)
Open Training: Hannah Boyd and Billy McClusky (25.2)
Novice Rider Junior: Megan Holmes and VC Casandra (25.7)
Novice Rider Senior: Cathrine Wunderlich and Concatulations (30.2)
Open Novice: Lauren Miller and Beau’s My Daddy (30.2)
Beginner Novice Junior: Morgan Peterson and Tiz Vivid (29.0)
Beginner Novice Senior: Alexandra Walters and Wrenaissance (28.1)
Open Beginner Novice: Kenneth Dierks and Forget To Remember (34.3)
Starter A: Christy Schlough and Vanquish (33.0)
Starter B: Keileen Driscoll and White Gold (31.4)

Willow Draw Charity Show (Weatherford, Tx.): [Website] [Results]

Open Training: Rebecca Brown and Fe Chiara Mia (30.9)
Training Rider: Courtney Kurlger and Eagle Rising (33.4)
Novice Rider Junior: Scarlett Peinado and 50 Shades of Envy (31.0)
Novice Rider Senior: Ashton Jones and CMF Rembrandt (37.4)
Open Novice: Laura McEvoy and Visconti (28.3)
Beginner Novice Rider Junior: Avery Stroud and Valedictorian (31.5)
Beginner Novice Rider Senior: Anna Hailey and Roma (32.5)
Open Beginner Novice: Hannah Corlett and Mac Creiche (26.8)
Starter: Kamran Fatehdin and Native Black Label (36.6)

Thursday Video: Ride Around Stable View with Elisa Wallace and Riot Gear

By on Sep 30, 2021 4:00 pm -

It’s never a bad time for a good helmet cam, and Elisa Wallace is always blessing us with her latest footage as she campaigns her string each season. In her latest GoPro video, check out her ride aboard Steve and Vicki Sukup’s Riot Gear, who finished ninth in the CCI3*-S at beautiful Stable View last weekend. I’m constantly amazed at the quality these helmet cams are putting out — no more motion sickness while watching a helmet cam video!

Volunteer Nation: 5 Events Where You Can Lend a Hand This Weekend

By on Sep 30, 2021 11:30 am -

Our sport is run on volunteer power, and if you’re wanting to get out and help this weekend we’ve got a full listing of currently available positions at events around the country. Don’t forget, you can accumulate points and win prizes by racking up volunteer hours — not to mention, it’s a great educational opportunity and a chance to take in the sport from another angle.

To learn more about the USEA’s Volunteer Incentive Program, click here.

Planning ahead? The Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill in Elkton, Md. is still looking for volunteers at its inaugural fall event! Click here to sign up.

Event: Spokane Sport Horse Farm Fall H.T.
Address: 10710 S Sherman Rd, Spokane, WA, 99224
Dates: Today through Sunday, October 3
Positions Available: YEH Jump Crew, YEH Score Runner, General Help, Parking Steward, Dressage Bit Check, Dressage Check-In, Dressage Scribe, Dressage Steward, Event Takedown – Dressage, XC Jump Judge, Phase A&C Checkpoint Judges, Phase A Finish Timer, Phase A Start Timer, Phase B Judge, Phase B Start Timer, Phase C Start Timer, Hospitality Steward, SJ In-Gate, SJ Jump Crew, SJ Timer, SJ Warm-up, Vet Box Check-In, Vet Box Scribe, Vet Box Timer, XC Warm-up, Hospitality Helper, Awards Committee, Office Help

Event: MDHT at Loch Moy Farm + Area II Championships
Address: 1235 Park Mills Road, Adamstown, MD, 21710
Dates: Today through Sunday, October 3
Positions Available: Event Prep – General, XC Jump Judge, Dressage Bit Check, Dressage Steward, Dressage Warm-up, Horse Ambulance Driver, XC Finish Timer, XC Starter, Awards Committee

Event: Fleur de Leap H.T.
Address: 13349 Verger Rd, Folsom, LA, 70437
Dates: Today through Sunday, October 3
Positions Available: Event Prep – Dressage, Event Prep – XC, Office Help, Hospitality Steward, SJ Jump Crew, SJ Warm-up, XC Crew, XC Crossing Guard, XC Jump Judge, XC Start Timer, XC Warm-up, Hospitality Steward

Event: Jump Start H.T.
Address: 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY, 40511
Dates: Friday, October 1 through Sunday, October 3
Positions Available: XC Crossing Guard, XC Score Input, XC Score Runner, Dressage Score Runner, Dressage Scribe, Dressage Steward, SJ Jump Crew, XC Starter, Scorers, SJ In-Gate, XC Jump Judge

Event: Larkin Hill Autumn H.T.
Address: 515 County Route 312, North Chatham, NY, 12132
Dates: Today through Monday, October 4
Positions Available: Event Prep – Dressage, Event Prep – SJ, Stabling Check-in & Trailer Parking, XC Jump Judge, Dressage Score Runner, Hospitality Helper, Hospitality Prep, Volunteer Information, Parking Steward, Scorers, Secretary – Awards, SJ Jump Crew,

Catching Up with Strides for Equality Equestrians Ever So Sweet Scholarship Recipient Helen Casteel

By on Sep 30, 2021 9:00 am -

Helen Casteel and Unapproachable. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

As Strides for Equality Equestrians prepares to award its second round of the Ever So Sweet scholarship, generously supported by Edy Rameike and the USEA Foundation, we sat down and caught up with our first scholarship winner, Helen Casteel of Silver Spring, Maryland.

The Ever So Sweet scholarship, which is the first of its kind, provides a fully-funded opportunity for riders from diverse backgrounds to train with upper-level professionals. The scholarship will cover expenses for full board and training costs for the horse, several lessons per week, housing for the rider, a stipend to cover living expenses, competition fees, and coaching at competitions. Participants will learn to manage, care for, and compete horses in an immersive program and will have the opportunity to work as part of the team in all aspects of running a large, competitive barn. For the upcoming winter session, the awardee will train with Sara and Brian at their Ocala, Florida facility.

SEE is currently accepting applications for the winter 2021-2022 round of the ess scholarship. the application deadline is october 15, 2021. click here to learn more and apply.

Photo courtesy of Helen Casteel.

SEE: What were your expectations coming into the Ever So Sweet Scholarship?

HC: Well, when I came into this I had applied but never imagined I would actually receive the scholarship. I didn’t know much about Sara, but everyone I asked had great things to say about her and she has an incredible reputation in the sport. So I really wasn’t sure what to expect — mostly, I worried about whether or not she’d like me or my horse, Abel. But I didn’t have to worry about that!

SEE: Can you describe your experience training with Sara?

HC: It’s been great from start to finish. I’ve never thought and still don’t think I’m a particularly brilliant rider, but doing this is kind of like going into boot camp where they pick you apart and then put you together. There was a lot of doing something different – so it’s not even a continuation, it’s almost a new beginning for my riding. It’s been a whole eye-opening experience as far as the training — what it means to be straight and forward, for example. We thought we did but we didn’t! And the details of care around the barn, little stuff that you just didn’t think of until you’re in a barn like this. All things that I’m so happy to have the opportunity to soak up and learn.

SEE: Tell us about a typical day working with Sara and her team.

HC: We would usually ride in the mornings — we did a lot of lessoning and received a lot of instruction. Dressage is a foundation of everything they do, so we’ve done a lot of flatwork. Show jumping has always in my head been my weakest phase so it’s been good because Sara is very good at it. When we do jump it’s very focused — two fences on a line, a lot of counting.

From there, every day is a little different. Sara has a great relationship with her staff and team, and as much as I offered to help out it really seemed like a well-oiled machine and I would have just gotten in the way! I was able to balance my remote work and my riding, while also making a ton of progress with my riding and my relationship with Abel.

First Virginia hack: check! Photo courtesy of Helen Casteel.

SEE: Do you have any advice for future recipients of the ESS?

HC: I would say the biggest thing is to keep an open mind on the training. The expectation is for you to get better. Be prepared to take it all in and just know that she wants you to get better. Horsemanship is so key. Really appreciate your horse when you’re there — even Sara will yell at me sometimes to pat my horse faster! And finally, enjoy the hell out of it. It will go by far too fast!

ESS Scholarship Description & History

Edy Rameika, Sara Kozumplik Murphy, and Brian Murphy will provide bi-annual sponsored internships for riders to train with Sara and Brian. Beginning in summer 2021, scholarship recipients will receive funding to immerse themselves in a high-performance training program with Brian and Sara at Overlook Farm Equestrian Center in Berryville, VA for three months. During the winter, the scholarship will provide two months of training with Sara and Brian in Florida. Sara and Brian will determine the exact dates of each scholarship period in coordination with the awardee. The scholarship will cover expenses for full board and training costs for the horse, several lessons per week, housing for the rider, a stipend to cover living expenses, competition fees, and coaching at competitions. Participants will learn to manage, care for, and compete horses in an immersive program and will have the opportunity to work as part of the team in all aspects of running a large, competitive barn.

Riders will also make professional connections that would otherwise be unattainable and play an active role in fostering a more inclusive environment within the sport. “I’ve had to overcome many challenges in my life as an upper-level event rider, but I never had the challenge of feeling like the sport wasn’t easily available to me. This scholarship allows access for those that currently don’t have a clear pathway to fight for their dreams,” Sara said when explaining why they decided to offer the opportunity. The Ever So Sweet scholarship is an important first step toward increasing diversity and inclusion in equestrian sports.

Edy shares the passion for providing opportunities for deserving riders, “Our family loves horses and the sport of eventing. My daughters, Roxanne and Nadine, began riding when they were quite young. They rode and competed through high school, and Roxanne continued into her college career. We are very fortunate. But there are students in underserved communities who have the passion and talent for the sport but perhaps not the means. Roxanne passed away in 2017 but her passion lives on through her family. Nadine, Sara, and I want to honor Roxanne and Nadine’s Native American heritage and their love of eventing through this scholarship in the hopes of helping to keep others’ dreams alive. Ever So Sweet is a song that was beloved to Roxanne and Nadine, especially during those memorable years of riding.”

Eligibility Requirements

The purpose of the scholarship is to provide education, experience, and networking opportunities for diverse young people interested in careers in competitive horse sports, particularly in the disciplines of eventing or show jumping. Please review the full description of this opportunity above and the detailed eligibility criteria within the scholarship application to determine if this opportunity is right for you or someone you know. Strides for Equality Equestrians welcomes inquiries for more information about the scholarship and/or application process.

The scholarship is offered twice annually for winter and summer sessions. Applicants who are not selected are eligible to reapply to future rounds.

Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Sep 29, 2021 12:01 am -

I’ve just landed in Kentucky for the first Equitana USA trade fair and exhibition, happening this weekend, October 1-3. Equitana is a bit of a multi-purpose trip for me: it’s a great opportunity to meet our sponsors in person, maybe meet some new ones, and dabble in some event coverage for our sister site, Horse Nation. Horse Nation’s editor, DeAnn Sloan, is joining me in Kentucky this week and we’re looking forward to experiencing Equitana and all of its jam-packed schedule. You can click here to view the happenings and buy your tickets.

One session I’m particularly keen to check out is the “Closing The Gap” panel, featuring Nicole Byrd of Detroit Horse Power, Patricia Kelly of Ebony Horsewomen, and Dr. Anastasia Curwood of Strides for Equality Equestrians. The session will be held on Saturday, October 2 at 2:45 pm on the Shadowfax Main Stage at Kentucky Horse Park. Click here to view more about the panel and here to purchase your tickets.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Fleur de Leap H.T. (Folsom, La.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

Jump Start H.T. and Area VIII Championships (Lexington, Ky.): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Larkin Hill H.T. (North Chatham, Ny.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

The Maryland H.T. at Loch Moy Farm + Area II Championships (Adamstown, Md.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (Nashville, Tn.): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Moqui Meadows H.T. (Greeley, Co.): [Website]

Spokane Sport Horse Seventh Annual Fall H.T. (Spokane, Wa.): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Sundance Farm H.T. (Plymouth, Wi.): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Willow Draw Charity Show (Weatherford, Tx.): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Wednesday Reading List:

What does it mean to possess emotional intelligence when it comes to riding? Well, we all know that horses are mirrors of our internal thoughts and emotions — even more so than ourselves, sometimes — so it comes as no surprise that successfully managing emotions will translate to better riding. This piece from the FEI provides some insights on accomplishing this challenge.

What happens when you decide to bring your horse along for the adventure on your overseas military assignment? Well, Chronicle of the Horse Blogger Lindsey Colburn has done just that, relocating with her horse to the UK for her new assignment — and she’s written about her initial impressions here.

Aiming for the Classic Three-Day at Waredaca this fall? Exciting news! The Preliminary Classic Three-Day will be offering jackpot prize money. The Jackpot is currently at $2,000 but is anticipated to rise, and the winning rider will take home 50% of the prize pot. Learn more here.

Heading to Morven Park’s inaugural CCI4*-L? If you plan to apply for media credentials, you can do so here. Registered media will receive a press pass, parking pass, invites to media events, and more — all media reps planning to attend are asked to register.

Watch This Wednesday:

What’s new on H&C+ this week? If you’re a dressage fan, there is plenty of action to take in from Dressage At Devon, which returns this week to the storied Pennsylvania venue. Catch all of the action, all week long with your H&C+ subscription! Plus, relive Osberton, Blenheim Palace, Bicton and more with on-demand live stream coverage. Click here to subscribe to H&C+.

Wednesday Video Break:

Ride around Stable View’s CCI3*-S with Elisa Wallace and Sharp Decision:

Tuesday Video: Relive Team GB’s Epic Europeans Win

By on Sep 28, 2021 4:06 pm -

If you missed any of the action from the FEI Longines Eventing European Championships, it’s a good thing there are plenty of highlights floating around from a truly epic weekend in Switzerland. You’ll want to look back at Tilly’s coverage — click here to see all of her reports — and here’s a look back at just the latest in a truly epic run of major wins for the still-surging British team.

Maryland 5 Star Entry Update: An International Smorgasbord

By on Sep 28, 2021 10:51 am -

Astier Nicolas and Babylon de Gamma. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Entries are still filing in for the Maryland 5 Star as more and more riders get wind of what to expect at the inaugural Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill in Elkton, Md. — and now we’ve got a handful more international entries whom we’ll be welcoming to the States, many of which will be making their first trek across the pond.

A total of 51 entries are now slotted in for the CCI5*, with a full-capacity CCI3*L championship and East Coast Young Event Horse Championship roster to boot. Here’s a look at some of the newcomers to the CCI5* entry list:

  • Maxime Livio (FRA) and Vitorio du Montet (12-year-old Selle Francais stallion by Lando, 8th at Pau in 2020)
  • Astier Nicolas (FRA) and Babylon de Gamma (10-year-old Selle Francais gelding by Mylord Carthago, making his CCI5* debut)
  • Zara Tindall (GBR) and Class Affair (12-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding by OBOS Quality 004 looking for his first CCI5* completion)

Zara Tindall and Class Affair. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Buck Davidson has thrown a fourth potential ride, the 10-year-old Thoroughbred Sorocaima, into the mix but will have to whittle his entries down come jog day (he’s already entered with Carlevo, Erroll Gobey and Jak My Style).

Lynn Symansky will bring forward her 2019 Pan American Games partner, the Donner Syndicate’s RF Cool Play (a 13-year-old German Sporthorse gelding by Condors Champion) for his CCI5* debut.

Great Britain’s Oliver Townend, entered in the CCI5* with Kentucky winner Cooley Master Class, will also contest the CCI3*L with Juli Sebring’s Ulises, a former ride of his before Juli acquired the ride earlier this year. Ulises campaigned through the CCI4* level with Oliver and was also formerly ridden in his earlier days by Andrew Nicholson. More on this cool story to come!

Lynn Symansky and RF Cool Play (USA). Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

FEI Definite Entries for the Maryland 5 Star close this week, so we may yet see a few more latecomers join the party. But for now, we’ve got one of the most exciting U.S. five-star entry lists (and heck, one of the most exciting five-star lists, period) we’ve ever seen to look forward to in less than a month’s time. We hope you’ll be joining us in Maryland — click here to purchase your tickets! Stay tuned for much more to come. Go Eventing!

Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill: [Website] [Entries] [Tickets] [Volunteer]

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feed

By on Sep 28, 2021 12:01 am -

Have you entered The Event at TerraNova yet? It promises to be an all-star weekend for all levels down in west Florida, and you still have until October 5 to get your entry in. Click here to view the Omnibus listing and sort out your entry!

Events Opening This Week:

Tryon International Three-Day Event, River Glen Fall H.T., Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks

Events Closing This Week:

Ocala Fall H.T.

Tuesday News:

Have you entered Legends Horse Feeds’ sweepstakes yet? Five lucky winners will take home 10 bags of Legends Horse Feed, and all you have to do is enter by September 30 to have your chance. Click here to enter!

Did you know the USEA has several Young Rider programs available for you? Whether you’re in high school or college or taking a different path, there is likely a program that fits your educational/competitive needs. Check out the range of programs available here.

You know you love a good Hallmark move, don’t you? We’ve got a new one coming your way, and this past weekend the new movie Taking The Reins premiered and has plenty of horse life to satiate your TV-movie cravings. Fran Jurga breaks down the equestrian elements of the film, including the location, in her latest article.

Eventing Nation is proud to partner with the Maryland 5 Star to produce the official Digital Program & Form Guide that will feature all the information you need to know, right at your fingertips and free to access. We’ll also be including a Deal Book with discounts and deals from both on-site vendors as well as other brands. Do you want to include your brand or product? Email me at [email protected].

Tuesday Video Break:

Take a look back at Nicola Wilson’s historic Europeans win with the smashing JL Dublin:

Photo Gallery: Twin Rivers Hosts Fall International, Youth Team Challenge

By on Sep 25, 2021 11:46 am -

The West coast riders are also busy gearing up for the big events of the fall season, which makes for a busy weekend of eventing action at Twin Rivers in Paso Robles, Ca. We’re also getting a glimpse of Tamie Smith, who seems immune to jet lag, as she scurried back from Aachen to pilot a few of her other horses around at Twin Rivers before flying back to Europe for the upcoming Boekelo CCI4*-L. Twin is also running Future and Young Event Horse competition as well as a Youth Team Challenge, so there is a lot to keep up with. Thankfully, our friends at Ride On Video are providing a free live stream throughout the weekend — and its cross country day!

Click image to go to live stream.

Many thanks to Ride On Photo for providing some images from the action so far. Here’s a look at your FEI leaders:

CCI4*-S: Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal (37.5)
CCI3*-S: Haley Turner and Shadow Inspector (28.6)
CCI2*-S: Kaylawna Smith-Cook and AEV Above Authority (34.7)

Follow along with live scoring here. Twin Rivers could still use a few volunteers for cross country today, so if you’re in the area stop by or sign up here.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Singapore In Charge of Stable View Oktoberfest CCI4*-S

By on Sep 24, 2021 6:46 pm -

Eventing Nation’s coverage of Stable View Oktoberfest is presented by Kentucky Performance products. The horse that matters to you, matters to Kentucky Performance Products, and they’ve designed a time-tested line of supportive products that will help your horse live his or her best life. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Singapore. Photo by Emilie Rollett.

We’re heading straight into a very exciting fall season in eventing land, and this weekend’s 400+ entry-strong Stable View Oktoberfest, featuring $60,000 in prize money, is one big prep where we’re getting a glimpse of horses and riders preparing for fall three-days. We’re through the first two phases in the headline CCI4*-S division, and it’s MARS Great Meadow International winners Phillip Dutton and Annie Jones, Tom Tierney and David Vos’ Fernhill Singapore in the driver’s seat on a score of 28.2 following show jumping.

Fernhill Singapore (owned by Tom Tierney, Annie Jones and Dave and Patricia Vos) keeps getting better and better in the dressage phase, and I was very pleased with him yesterday at Stable View. He earned his personal-best dressage score of 23.8 and currently sits in the lead in the CCI4*-S. He'll run cross-country this morning at 11:51 a.m., following Sea of Clouds at 10:57 a.m.

Posted by Phillip Dutton Eventing on Saturday, September 25, 2021

Leslie Law and Lady Chatterley. Photo by Emilie Rollett.

Show jumping did a bit of a shuffle among the early leaders, and while Phillip will retain the lead he took in the dressage, three of the newly-formed top five combinations moved up by turning in double clear jumping efforts. Clayton Fredericks and his Maryland-bound partner, Kingfisher Park’s FE Stormtrooper moved from sixth into second, followed by Leslie Law occupying the third and fourth positions aboard Beatrice Ray-Herme’s First Class (31.5) and Jackie and Steve Brown’s Lady Chatterley (31.9). Leslie moves both of his rides up from outside of the top 10. Kyle Carter and Christy Edwards’ Reddy Or Not complete the top five, dropping just a shade with one pesky rail down on Chris Barnard’s show jumping track, on a score of 32.3.

Dom Schramm and Bolytair B. Photo by Emilie Rollett.

Looking to the other FEI divisions at Oktoberfest, it’s Ellie O’Neal with Sally Cox’s Zick Zack leading the way in the CCI3*-S on a two-phase score of 27.0, moving up from second after dressage thanks to a double clear show jumping effort. Ellie is aiming for the CCI3*-L National Championship at Maryland next month with the 12-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare.

Autumn Schweiss and Global Invieto DHI, owned by Julie Schweiss, moved from third up into second position heading into tomorrow’s cross country on a score of 27.1., followed by Candace Bell and Fernhill Philm Star on a score of 27.6. This pair is also heading for the Maryland CCI3*-L as their big three-day of the fall season.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Ocala Horse Properties’ Shanroe Cooley, the newly-crowned Preliminary Horse champion from the USEA American Eventing Championships last month, will share the dressage lead in the CCI2*-S, sitting alongside Jenna Sack and her own Fernhill Imperial Flight, each earning a score of 27.6. Jenna and Fernhill Imperial Flight have been on a championship tour themselves, finishing second in the Area II Preliminary Championships at this venue earlier this summer as well as sixth in the Preliminary Amateur Championship at the American Eventing Championships. Daniela Moguel and Pedro Gutierrez’s Estela de la Galerna, a 9-year-old Mexican Sport Horse/Irish Sport Horse mare making her FEI debut, are in third after the first phase 28.1

Shelby Allen will be on the ground for tomorrow’s jumping action, so stay tuned for much more from Stable View! Many thanks to Emilie Rollett, who’s been helping with photos and press releases from Stable View. And as always, Go Eventing!

Stable View Oktoberfest 2/3/4* and H.T. (Aiken, Sc.): [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Volunteer]

How to Watch the 2021 FEI Eventing European Championships This Week

By on Sep 22, 2021 1:30 pm -

Ingrid Klimke and SAP Hale Bob OLD. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Another frenetic weekend of eventing action is all queued up for you this week, and headlining the international line-up of competition is the 2021 FEI Eventing European Championships at the beautiful Swiss Avenches venue. The best of the European best is slated to compete — including a handful of horses and many riders we saw in Tokyo — and action has already begun with the first horse inspection this afternoon, Swiss time. Click here to check out Tilly’s report from the trot-up.

Tilly Berendt is on the ground in Switzerland (and yes, we’re all jealous and considering relocating EN headquarters as we speak) and she’ll be along all week with reports from the competition. You can follow along as well — if you signed up for a free trial of ClipMyHorse.TV, you’re in luck as this will be the same platform for the European Championship live stream. Will Ingrid Klimke defend her crown and become a three-time European Champion? Will Germany take the top honors again, or will Tokyo gold medal-winners Great Britain snatch the gold? It’s all up for grabs at this point…

Here’s a quick view of the live stream schedule:

Provider: ClipMyHorse.TV / FEI.TV

Dressage Day 1, Thursday September 23: 3:50 a.m. EST / 9:50 a.m. CEST
Dressage Day 2, Friday September 24: 3:50 a.m. EST / 9:50 a.m. CEST
Cross Country, Saturday September 25: 4:50 a.m. EST / 10:50 a.m. CEST
Show Jumping, Sunday September 26: 4:50 a.m. EST / 10:50 a.m. CEST

If you’re not an early riser, not to worry – ClipMyHorse.TV generally has replays available within 24 hours so you’ll be able to rewatch when it’s better for you.

Take a look back at Ingrid and Bobby’s winning ways:

FEI Eventing European Championships: [Website] [Entries] [Start List & Scores] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Sep 22, 2021 12:01 am -

Ava L. presents prizes to Alyssa Phillips at Great Meadow. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Strides for Equality Equestrians (SEE) were able to welcome riders from Warrenton, Va.’s White Oak Stables to MARS Great Meadow International last month — major thank you to Darrin Mollett and the team at GMI for making the opportunity possible! It was so great to meet some new faces and watch them take in the sport at its finest. One rider, Ava, even got to hand out some prizes to division winners. All in all, it was an incredibly special weekend — and SEE looks forward to working with more events in the future to welcome riders from all backgrounds to the sport. Want to get involved with your barn or event? Visit StridesForEquality.org for more!

U.S. Weekend Preview

Stable View Oktoberfest 2/3/4* and H.T. (Aiken, Sc.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

Twin Rivers Fall International (Paso Robles, Ca.): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Volunteer]

ESDCTA New Jersey H.T. (Allentown, Nj.): [Website] [Volunteer]

Old Tavern H.T. at Great Meadow (The Plains, Va.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

University of New Hampshire H.T. (Durham, Nh.): [Website] [Entries]

Major International Events:

FEI Eventing European Championships: [Website] [Entries] [Start List & Scores] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Wednesday Reading List:

The deadline for the winter Ever So Sweet scholarship, part of Strides for Equality Equestrians and the USEA Foundation, is rapidly approaching! October 15 is the last day to submit your application for the scholarship, which provides an incredible opportunity of all expenses paid training with Sara Kozumplik Murphy at her Ocala, Fl. facility this winter. Visit this link to learn more and submit your application.

Eventing Nation is proud to partner with the Maryland 5 Star to produce the official Digital Program & Form Guide that will feature all the information you need to know, right at your fingertips and free to access. We’ll also be including a Deal Book with discounts and deals from both on-site vendors as well as other brands. Do you want to include your brand or product? Email me at [email protected].

It’s International Helmet Awareness month (or at least, it should be — let’s be honest, every day is IHAD!) and SmartPak is not only running an excellent deal on helmets and safety equipment, they’re also sharing meaningful stories about the impact (no pun intended) helmets can have on our safety and well-being. In this blog, learn about Team SmartPak rider Silva Martin’s life was saved by wearing a helmet.

The saga that is Canada Equestrian continues as another chair of the federation’s Eventing Committee has now vacated his post, voicing several concerns with the management of the organization. “I’ve resigned for three main reasons,” Nicholas Austin explained to Horse Sport. “First, Equestrian Canada has treated the volunteers with disrespect. Second, [EC] is making changes to the sport without consultation with the committee. And third, there is little evidence to show they actually comprehend the ramifications of any of their decisions as it relates to Eventing.”

Looking for a cool gig in the horse industry? I have a couple opportunities for you! First up is a videographer opening with West coast service Ride On Video. Ride On Video films riders at events all up and down the West coast and is in need of help through the fall season. You can visit this Facebook post for more information — this is a great gig with awesome people, perfect for some side cash and the opportunity to visit some cool events. Next is an opening for a Marketing Manager for Equitana USA through the show’s producer, ReedPop. This position is open to remote work, though you will want to have some experience backing you up before you apply. Visit this link to learn more about this position.

Wednesday Watch This:

Did you know that H&C+ has a whole library of Masterclass content with riders such as newly-crowned CHIO Aachen winner Will Coleman, five-star rider Liz Halliday-Sharp, and many more? View the Will Coleman Masterclass — which is accessible with your H&C+ membership — here.

Wednesday Video Break:

Just some zen from Beezie and John Madden’s heavenly farm…

And hey, who doesn’t love more Will Coleman?