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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

Volunteer Nation: 5 Events In Need of Assistance This Weekend

By on Feb 13, 2020 2:00 pm -

Last weekend at the Florida Horse Park, a couple of familiar faces were spotted paying their dues back to the sport in the form of some volunteer hours. Some riders may not have recognized the man in the baseball cap barking out the upcoming order of go or the five-star rider helping out at cross country warm-up. Both David O’Connor as well as Katie Ruppel were out volunteering in a great show of what it means to be all-in with the sport we love.

So how would you feel if a former president of the USEF volunteered to be ring steward at your event? How about the former USEF Eventing coach and current Canadian technical advisor? Or maybe the current FEI Eventing chairman? Ok fine then we will just settle for Olympic Gold medalist. I thought it was pretty cool to see the world famous David O’Connor volunteering at the Florida Horse Park last weekend. I am not sure the kids in his ring knew who the guy in the hat getting them in the ring was but they knew they had better listen! Be sure to tune in for the Jon and Rick Show from Horse Trailer Pros studios this Thursday the 13th at 6pm! #horsetrailerpros

Posted by The Jon and Rick Show on Monday, February 10, 2020

Yes, showing can be busy and stressful. But these shows do not run without the support of volunteers who are also up at the crack of dawn to get ready for the day and who spend their whole day on their feet out in the sun. So let’s all make it a goal to make an effort to volunteer as much as we can. And no matter what, always thank the volunteers when it’s your turn to compete!

If you’re looking for an opportunity to volunteer this weekend, here are a few shows in need of some help. Not listed below but likely still in need of extra hands is Rocking Horse’s Winter II Horse Trials in Altoona, Florida. You can visit this site to sign up as a part of the volunteer crew.

Event: Fresno County Horse Park February Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday, February 14 through Sunday, February 16
Address: 7430 North Weber Avenue, Fresno, CA, 93726
Positions available: Dressage Score Runner, XC Jump Judge, XC Safety Check, SJ Jump Crew, SJ Timer

Event: Paradise Farm February Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday, February 14 through Sunday, February 16
Address: 4069 Wagener Rd., Aiken, SC, 29805
Positions available: XC Finish Timer, XC Jump Judge, XC Steward, Dressage Steward, Dressage Warm-up, Hospitality Steward, Volunteer Lead, SJ Jump Crew, SJ Out Gate, SJ Score Runner, SJ Warm-up, Dressage Bit Check, Dressage Score Runner, Stabling Check-in and Trailer Parking, XC Score Runner

Event: Carolina Horse Park Pipe Opener II
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday, February 14 through Saturday, February 15
Address: 2814 Montrose Rd., Raeford, NC, 28376
Positions available: All positions filled at time of publication. Please reach out on the grounds if you want to help!

Event: Pine Hill GHCTA Schooling Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Saturday, February 15 through Sunday, February 16
Address: 1720 Hwy 159 East, Bellville, TX, 77418
Positions available: Parking Steward, XC Crossing Guard, XC Jump Judge, XC Pinney Collector, XC Score Runner, Dressage Score Runner, Event Takedown – XC, Secretary, SJ Jump Crew, SJ Timer, SJ Warm-up

Event: Stable View February Eventing Academy
Date(s) volunteers needed: Saturday, February 15 through Tuesday, February 18
Address: 117 Stable Dr, Aiken, SC, 29801
Positions available: Event Prep – SJ, Event Prep – General, XC Jump Judge, Floater, Parking Steward, XC Safety Spotter, Hospitality Prep, General Sign-up, Jump Crew

Want to Win a Trip to Land Rover Kentucky? Here’s How

By on Feb 13, 2020 9:00 am -

Enter the 2020 Land Rover VIP Insiders Package Sweepstakes

The 2020 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Event is right around the corner and Land Rover is giving away 4 VIP hospitality passes + so much more!!Enter the sweepstakes (🇺🇸 residents only): https://www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events-and-sponsorships/kentucky-three-day-event-kmi.html

Posted by USA Eventing on Wednesday, February 12, 2020

We are just over two months away from the Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event, and for anyone who’s been eyeing a trip to eventing’s North American mecca will want to enter a new sweepstakes put on by Land Rover USA.

The Land Rover USA VIP Insiders Package Sweepstakes is a chance for four eventing mega fans to venture to the Bluegrass State for the weekend of a lifetime. Sweepstakes winners will receive:

*Four (4) VIP Hospitality Passes for the 2020 EEI Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event.
*A Course walk with an Eventing Rider for four (4) people during the 2020 EEI Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event.
*Land Rover Test Drive at the Land Rover off-road experience for four (4) people at a pre-arranged time during the 2020 EEI Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event.
*Land Rover Branded Swag for winner only.
*Sponsor to provide a catered tailgate for four (4) people using a Land Rover vehicle in the Sponsor VIP section of the Tailgate Parking Area during the Cross Country competition on Saturday, April 25, 2020.
*One (1) Preferred Tailgate Space for the 2021 EEI Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event which will include (6) General Admission Tickets for Saturday,April 2021.

To enter, simply fill out this form. Entries are currently open and being accepted through April 1, so don’t wait! Good luck to you, and we’ll see you in Kentucky!

Wednesday News & Notes from Ecovet

By on Feb 12, 2020 12:05 am -

A little love goes a long way! Photo by JJ Sillman.

I was today years old when I learned that Galentine’s Day actually has its own date. I also was today years old when I found out that the term originated on the TV show Parks and Recreation. So, I’m sure many of you are much more with the times than I am, but I thought I’d share that fun fact.

So in honor of this hallowed day, I would like to just say a word of thanks for all of the gal (and guy) pals I’ve made at the barn throughout my life. I’m sure most of you can relate to this; the barn is truly a place where I feel continually safe, accepted, included. Today, make sure you take a moment to celebrate this little pre-Valentine’s Day holiday (and let’s be honest, most of us will spend Valentine’s Day at the barn, anyway) to let your pals know you love them. After all, we’re all in this crazy thing called horses together. #HorseGirlEnergy forever, y’all.

National Holiday: Galentine’s Day

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Rocking Horse Winter II: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times]
Paradise Farm H.T.: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times]
Fresno County Horse Park H.T.: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times]

Wednesday News:

Learn more about the official charity for this year’s Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event. The Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation is devoted to the progression of equine research. Data continues to play an integral role in understanding equine health and performance. Find out more about the Foundation in the latest USEA Event College video.

Australia has named its National High Performance Eventing Squads for 2020. Divided into three categories — Gold, Green, and Next — the squads are named based on a variety of criteria. Factors such as fitness, ability to develop a consistent program, and ability to represent Australia on the biggest stages were considered. [Equestrian Australia Names High Performance Squads]

Did you know that Mary King spends her time out of the saddle … sailing? And she doesn’t just go out for a lazy jaunt about the harbor, either. No, this multiple Olympian and general badass just competed in a small race called the Clipper Round the World Ocean Race. Listen to the fascinating story in the newest Horse Show episode from Women In Sports. [Mary King Sails the Southern Ocean]

Wednesday Watch:

I know, I know … this is an eventing site. But let’s be honest, we could all take a page out of Steffen Peters’ book. You’ll want to watch this ride from the Adequan Global Dressage Festival in Wellington past weekend. The performance stamped Steffan and Suppenkasper’s ticket to the World Cup Finals in Vegas this April. Watch them dance to the tune of a personal best 83.495%:

You don’t want to miss this #FNSWinningRound presented by Premier Equestrian! 🌟 Steffen Peters’ breathtaking performance aboard Suppenkasper earned an incredible score of 83.495% to claim last night’s Grand Prix Freestyle CDI-W presented by Helgstrand Dressage. 👏🏻

Posted by Adequan Global Dressage Festival on Saturday, February 8, 2020

Ecovet is the only fly repellent that improves insect-related skin sensitivity. Learn more at eco-vet.com.

Karim Florent Laghouag Takes Devoucoux Indoor Derby at Bordeaux

By on Feb 11, 2020 9:00 am -

The more I watch indoor eventing, the more I think about how it takes a very special, unflappable yet very in tune horse to do well in this sub-discipline of the sport. The feeling you get watching indoor eventing is more akin to watching a reiner run a pattern or a show jumper doing a Gambler’s Choice round. The crowd is energetic, even boisterous, the announcer is beside himself, the noise is deafening. And yet somehow, you’ve got to put on the blinders and navigate a twisty, turning course of no less than 30 jumping efforts.

It’s truly a spectacle, which is why the winter season signals high tide for those who dare to dream of indoor eventing glory. Much of the winter in Europe is spent at massive indoor shows, many of which play host to multiple disciplines in a given weekend. This weekend was no different, at the Jumping International of Bordeaux in the famous wine country of southwestern France.

17 competitors would come forward to compete against one another and the clock on a technical track that spanned two arenas and 22 fences/30 jumping efforts. Playing a heavy factor into the competition was a handful of bank questions, along with the sheer technicality of simply remembering which direction to go. At the end, it was hometown hero Karim Florent Laghouag who would take home the win aboard Punch de l’Esques, a slalwart campaigner who at 17 years young has become somewhat of an indoor veteran with eight FEI recognized starts since 2017.

This pair has been turning up the heat all winter, collecting a win in the indoor eventing in Paris last December as well as a second place at Geneva the following week. It’s a partnership of a lifetime for Karim and the lithe chestnut Anglo-Arab gelding; they’ve been campaigning together at international levels since 2009.

“Punch is a horse that I have had for a long time,” Karim said after his big night. “He arrived at mine aged four, today he is 17. Once again, he gave me a nice victory. He is in top form; we saw the vets who told me he was stainless. He is very good, he loves the atmosphere, he is more and more calm and he has gained more serenity and experience in this type of class.”

Calm and cool, indeed — see for yourself in their round. Somehow, Karim came in nearly seven seconds ahead of his closest competitor, finishing in 108.56 seconds to Luc Chateau’s 115.03 seconds.

It was an all-French podium as fellow countrymen Luc Chateau and Rodolphe Scherer would take home second and third place, respectively. Some guy named Michael Jung, who himself has become a bit of a figure indoors, picked up fourth place after he and Highlighter had one fence down. “Michael Jung almost got me though,” Karim said. “He was fast, but was forced out of his comfort zone, which was my goal. I did not want to take all the risks so as not to drop a fence therefore Michael was forced to take risks, which cost him a fault.” Ireland’s Cathal Daniels, whose had a great season with back-to-back wins indoors, finished up in fifth place with Alcatraz.

If you missed out on the indoor derby at Bordeaux, you’re in luck because the entire event is available now for replay. Catch it below:

Jumping International of Bordeaux: [Website][Devoucoux Indoor Derby Results]

Did You Miss the $50,000 MARS Eventing Showcase? Watch the Replays Now

By on Feb 10, 2020 3:00 pm -

Jacob Fletcher and Van Gough. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

If you opted out of watching the $50,000 MARS Eventing Showcase yesterday, then you should definitely set aside some time to sit down and have a look. Thanks to Equestrian Sport Productions, the full replay of the show jumping and cross country phases is now available for free viewing.

Ryan Wood and Powell. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Some may have thought that a three minute cross country course mostly intended to ride as an exhibition for those new to the sport would not cause much in the way of dramatics or excitement — but this was far from the truth when the first horse entered the grass derby field yesterday.

Problems were scattered throughout both Andy Christiansen’s show jumping course as well as Capt. Mark Phillips’ cross country track. Combine the trickiness of both courses with the atmosphere, the derby grass, the fact that show jumping was held prior to cross country, and a little dusting of early season rust and you’ve got yourself some entertainment!

Charlotte Collier and Clifford M. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

You can tune in and relive the show jumping action here (and keep up with our live updates here) and then get in on the cross country finale (live updates) here.

$50k MARS Eventing Showcase: Website, Entries, Live Scores, Show Jumping Live Stream, XC Live Stream,  EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

Irish Eventing Goes On Tour with Take On Tokyo Event

By on Feb 10, 2020 1:00 pm -

The fact that 2020 is an Olympic year means that teams across the world are already hard at work drumming up support and exposure as August draws ever closer. A creative effort by the Irish eventing team drew spectators and participants to the Take On Tokyo Tour, a three-stop demonstration show put on to raise funds for the program and its efforts to field a strong team for the Summer Games.

The Take On Tokyo Tour made its three stops over this past weekend, giving eager participants a chance to interact with and learn from prominent figures on the Irish team. Demonstrations from riders such as Cathal Daniels and Sam Watson gave riders a glimpse at the new 5* Olympic test as well as jumping exercises that can be applied to horses at various stages of training and development. Team show jumping coach Grant Wilson was on hand for these sessions, and other lectures were given to provide attendees with a full spectrum experience.

The 2020 ‘Take On Tokyo’ Eventing Tour kicked off at Maryville in Co. Cork. The tour which is supported by Horse Sport…

Posted by Irish Eventing Times on Friday, February 7, 2020

The 2020 ‘Take On Tokyo’ Eventing Tour moved to Ravensdale for day 2. The tour which is supported by Horse Sport…

Posted by Irish Eventing Times on Saturday, February 8, 2020

A special moment was given to Cathal Daniels, who enjoyed a meteoric rise to the top in 2019 with an individual bronze medal at the European Eventing Championships, and Margaret Kinsella’s Rioghan Rua, who was awarded an Irish Eventing lifetime membership in recognition of her career achievements to date.

Take a look at some scenes from the tour this weekend:

Some clips from the final day of the eventing Take on Tokyo tour which took place at Spruce Lodge in Co.Wicklow.#horsesports #horsesoninstagram #eventinglife #horsetrials #goeventing #equestriansport #irisheventing #igtv #horsesonigtv #eventing #horsesportireland #eventingireland #irisheventingtimes@eventingireland@tredstep@cathaldaniels@elizabethpower

Posted by Irish Eventing Times on Monday, February 10, 2020

Luhmühlen Announces €25,000 Increase in Prize Money for 2020 CCI5*-L

By on Feb 10, 2020 11:00 am -

Photo by Thomas Ix, courtesy of Luhmühlen.

Thanks to returning title sponsor Longines, the CCI5*L division at Luhmühlen this June will play host to an additional EUR 25,000 ($27,316) in prize money. This increases the pot from EUR 100,000  ($109,264) and brings the German five-star up to the fifth position on the list of prize money pools available at the top level.

“We are excited to see the effect this significant raise in prize money will have on the Luhmühlen entries,” Luhmühlen event director Julie Otto said in a press release. The CCI4*-S, which runs concurrently with the CCI5*-L, will likely draw many Tokyo hopefuls, but the significant increase in prize money up for grabs should garner a strong field to contest Mike Etherington-Smith’s refreshed track.

Mike Etherington-Smith visits the Luhmühlen track for some updates this month. Photo by Laura Gause, courtesy of Luhmühlen.

“Both courses have a slightly different feel to them, especially in terms of where the questions are distributed,” Mike said in a press release. “I am trying to manage the speed a bit better whilst maintaining the flow and so I have come up with some new lines to hopefully make the time more influential. The flow and balance of the course is very important since they encourage horses to jump well.”

In addition to the support from Longines, the team behind Luhmühlen expressed thanks for the additional support of sponsors such as LVM insurance agency Bernd Bamberger, Lotto Niedersachsen, Meßmer, and Charles Owen.

Weekend Winners: Ocala Winter I, Pine Top Intermediate, Full Gallop Farm

By on Feb 10, 2020 9:00 am -

What with all the excitement down south in Wellington this weekend, we can’t forget about our competing compatriots at the three other recognized events this weekend. One of my favorite winter pastimes is to check out entries and scores of the winter horse shows; I always like to think of it as a “Kentucky preview,” a who’s who of horses aiming for the top level this year. It’s exciting to keep tabs on the pairs who we might be cheering on in just a couple of months on the Bluegrass. I can’t hardly wait!

This week, our low score award goes to Erin Walker and Zydeco Nights, who finished their weekend in the Senior Novice division at Ocala Winter I on a 22.6. Well done, you two!

Pine Top Intermediate H.T.  [Website] [Final Scores]

Advanced/Intermediate: Colleen Loach and Qorry Blue D’Argouges (41.4)
Intermediate Rider: Sydney Shinn and Paprika (51.9)
Open Intermediate A: Will Faudree and Caeleste (32.9)
Open Intermediate B: Jenny Caras and Trendy Fernhill (37.6)
Open Preliminary A: Daniel Clasing and Luska Candy Clover (32.8)
Open Preliminary B: Chris Talley and Fibber and Molly (29.8)
Open Preliminary C: Andrew McConnon and Ferrie’s Cello (32.0)
Preliminary Rider A: Olivia Coolidge and Bold Impression (40.7)
Preliminary Rider B: Lynnea Woody and Prince Eric (40.9)
Jr. Training Rider: Mya Poulos and Guy’s Elegant Miss (35.0)
Open Training A: Mike Pendleton and The Fonz Himself (27.5)
Open Training B: Andrew McConnon and D’Luxe Steel (29.3)
Preliminary/Training: Haley Carspecken and Get Out (30.0)
Sr. Training Rider: Norah Springgate and Jaywalker (37.9)
Jr. Novice Rider: Alexandra Kleinmann and BB Returns (29.8)
Sr. Novice Rider: Megan Harris and TBS Declan Pondi (31.4)
Training/Novice: Daryl Kinney and Monte Carlo (33.6)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider: Sabrina Carmichael and Briars of Buchannan (38.6)
Open Beginner Novice: Lisa Hida and Cooleys Rule of Law (28.9)
Sr. Beginner Novice: Magdalene Montgomery and Casanova (36.1)

View this post on Instagram

It was a day for the greys at Pine Top Intermediate HT! The videos are not all of the same horse even though they are lookalikes. The dressage and SJ clip are of Barry (#corvett ) and the XC is of Trueno (Roll of Thunder). Barry had a great first event putting in a much improved dressage score thanks to @jamesburtwell 's amazing lessons. A double clear SJ round with @richpicken 's expertise guidance. And a clear jump around a very wet XC track adding a bit of time to finish 4th in a competitive division. I am very thankful every time I get to ride this amazing horse thanks to his owners Black Flag Option. It's going to be an exciting year for our special boy! 🤞 I also got to ride @trixievos and Dave's lovely horse Trueno in the Prelim. I had so much fun riding him and we finished 3rd in a big division. I literally couldn't have made today happen without the help of @juleseventer who got thrown in the deep end with 2 grey horses and quick changes between rides. You are amazing! 🙏 #eventersofinstagram #greyhorses #eventinglife #thewholeequestrian #teamworkmakesthedreamwork

A post shared by Emily Hamel (@hameleventing) on

Ocala Winter I H.T. [Website] [Final Scores]

Advanced CT: Kylie Lyman and Da Vinci Code (28.8)
Advanced Intermediate: Karl Slezak and Fernhill Wishes (38.9)
Intermediate Horse: Melissa Boutin and EWSZ Jalando (39.3)
Intermediate Rider: Kirsten Schuitema and One Sly Fox (49.9)
Open Intermediate: Leah Lang-Gluscic and AP Prime (33.5)
Open Intermediate Jackpot: Ellen Doughty-Hume and Sir Oberon (34.3)
Open Preliminary: Kurt Martin and D.A. Lifetime (29.8)
Open Preliminary – Friday: Natalia Neneman and Electric Lux (31.8)
Open Preliminary Jackpot: Dom Schramm and Casalto (29.6)
Preliminary Horse: Ashley Adams and Charly (40.3)
Preliminary Rider A: Karli Wright and Master Eli (41.1)
Preliminary Rider B: Ben Noonan and Keep Kitty (28.3)
Jr. Training Rider: Emeline Gilbert and Herr Winzig (27.1)
Modified A: Kendal Lehari and Iron Lorde (26.7)
Modified B: Kendyl Tracy and Bobbie Burns (29.4)
Open Modified Jackpot: Cindy Rawson and Harry Cotter (33.0)
Open Training A: Kurt Martin and Space Ranger (30.2)
Open Training B: Allie Knowles and Hooked On Cooley (31.7)
Open Training Jackpot: Jon Holling and Avoca Druid (30.5)
Sr. Training Rider: Katie Grace Bond and High Class (31.9)
Training Horse A: Kurt Martin and D.A. Shannondale Cushla (25.7)
Training Horse B: Sara Blackwell and Brig’s Swift Arrival (29.1)
Jr. Novice Rider: Brayden Edmonds and Jay of Diamonds (31.2)
Novice Horse A: Rebekah Simmons and Kingsfield Jasperretto (27.6)
Novice Horse B: Karl Slezak and Poynstown Jaguar (24.1)
Open Novice A: Ashlynn Meuchel and Infinity KH (29.5)
Open Novice B: Dom Schramm and Dawn Breaker (29.3)
Open Novice Jackpot: Kirsten Schuitema and Prinz S.W. (23.8)
Sr. Novice Rider: Erin Walker and Zydeco Nights (22.6)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Kevin Stamper and M C Dancer (27.6)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Emma Tuit and Rapid Romero KV (30.8)
Open Beginner Novice A: Tik Maynard and Privatised (28.3)

Full Gallop Farm February HT: [Website][Final Scores]

Preliminary: Meg Bowers and Keep the Change (34.4)
Preliminary/Training: Ashley Carr and Just Because (56.0)
Training: Finley Habenicht and Aleta NSF (27.1)
Novice A: Susan Thomas and FGF Fancy Footwork (30.7)
Novice B: Booli Selmayr and Governor Malibh (24.1)
Beginner Novice A: Chacea Sundman and Billy Hero (27.5)
Beginner Novice B: Jessica Schultz and FGF Giacokhan (26.7)
Starter: Brooke Webb and Bluegrass Beat (33.1)

$50,000 MARS Eventing Showcase Cross Country Live Updates

By on Feb 9, 2020 1:25 pm -

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

It’s a quick turnaround for the horses and riders left to battle it out for the top prize (and a cool few thousand dollars) over Capt. Mark Phillips’ cross country course this afternoon at the $50,000 MARS Eventing Showcase. Wellington isn’t exactly known as an eventing hub, but it’s sure been turned into one today.

Riders will be facing 19 jumping efforts set out in the derby field for a twisting and turning show of cross country riding. The first rider is due out on course at 1:30 pm ET, and we’ll be seeing the pairs coming forward in reverse order of go.

You can see our course preview here and follow along with the cross country live stream here.

$50k MARS Eventing Showcase: Website, Entries, Live Scores, XC Live Stream,  EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

3:16 pm ET: Buck Davidson was originally announced the winner but it looks like Marilyn’s time has been corrected and she will eke out the win by the hair on Kitty’s nose. Their final score of 28.2 is enough to beat out Buck and Carlevo on a 28.6! A thriller finale here in Wellington! Stay tuned for the final report.

3:12 pm ET: Marilyn Little gets away with some hairy moments at the skinny brushes at 9 and 10 as well as at the final corners, forcing a circle between the two. However, the two corners are separately numbered so she gets home with no jump penalties but her time is 3 minutes 23 seconds.

Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous.

3:08 pm ET: Buck scraps his way through and makes it under the time! Now it comes to our leader, Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous. Will they hang on for the big win? Marilyn has a few seconds of time in hand but cannot afford any jumping penalties.

3:06 pm ET: Buck and Carlevo aren’t hanging around either — this one will come down to the wire as the pressure cooker is on!

3:05 pm ET: Buck Davidson and Carlevo are our second to last out of the box on a score of 28.6.

3:03 pm ET: Phillip gives us a masterclass in how to ride forward through the turns and comes home in 3 minutes 7 seconds for another clear inside the time.

3:01 pm ET: Liz Halliday-Sharp will finish both Deniro Z and Cooley Quicksilver in the top 5 today after collecting another double clear with her second ride of the day.

2:58 pm ET: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z are our next out looking for a clear round. This pair finished 15th at Burghley in 2019 and will be looking to build on that this year.

2:57 pm ET: Waylon Roberts and Lancaster easily make the time to keep the pressure on our leaders.

2:53 pm ET: SO GOOD! Lots of love for Louie as Sharon White stops the clock at just over 3:07 for a clear inside the time to stay on their score of 31.3. They’ll take the provisional lead with five more to see.

2:51 pm ET: Sharon and “Louie” have a beautiful ride through the arrowheads at 9 and 10 and are looking to be good on time so far.

2:50 pm ET: We’re having a bit of an issue getting scores to load, so I apologize for the lack of specifics on scores. I’ll get you back up to date as soon as I can.

2:47 pm ET: Karen O’Connor tells us how Daniela describes Cecelia as more mature these days, hunting flags and understanding how many elements there are in a question. This experience shows as they continue attacking this course in a great rhythm. These two finish inside the time! Our next underway is Sharon White with Cooley On Show.

2:46 pm ET: Mexico’s Daniela Moguel and Cecelia are our next starters.

2:44 pm ET: Hallie Coon and Celien have come out attacking this course! They have a really catty ride through the skinny brushes that have been troublesome at fences 9 and 10.

Hallie Coon and Celien.

2:42 pm ET: A lot to love about Ryan Wood’s quiet manner with Powell. Perhaps a touch too quiet to challenge for the win today, but he’ll be pleased with this pipe opener. This course has really rewarded a flowing ride (as most courses should, if we’re being honest), and it’s a nod to Capt. Phillips’ chops for designing with limited space that still allows for a good rhythm.

Ryan Wood and Powell.

2:38 pm ET: Ryan Wood and Powell are our next to see on a score of 33.5. It’s looking like a safe bet that we’ll crown a new winner for the first time of the Wellington Showcase history. Who will it be?

2:37 pm ET: Boyd lives dangerously at the skinny fences at 9 and 10 but he’s safely through as Boyd can do. He is a bit down on the clock as he comes for home.

2:33 pm ET: Phillip Dutton adds .4 time penalties, just barely clocking in over the optimum. He’ll take a score of 34.1 for the three phases with Fernhill Singapore. Now away are Boyd Martin with Long Island T.

2:32 pm ET: Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Singapore look to be on a mission to make the time through the first handful of fences.

2:31 pm ET: A 35.8 will be Selena’s final score with Foxwood High after they add just one tick over the optimum time for .4 time penalties. What a ride from this experienced pair!

Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High.

2:27 pm ET: Jennie Brannigan and Ibella have a lovely go with a couple green moments, adding just some time for a great educational round for this talented mare. Keep an eye on this one this year! Next out are Canadian fan favorites Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High.

2:24 pm ET: Jacob Fletcher hails a cab over the Nutro Ditch and comes home just outside of the time with the lovely Van Gough.

2:20 pm ET: Buck comes home at 3 minutes 30 seconds plus 20 jumping. Bummer, but some really great things to like about this round. A scopey jumper, that one!

2:19 pm ET: Buck becomes the first to fall victim to the narrow squirrel in the water at fence 12 after a beautiful ride through the skinny brushes at 9 and 10.

Buck Davidson and Erroll Gobey.

2:17 pm ET: Buck is underway with Erroll Gobey! This pair had one bummer of a rail earlier today and bring forward a score of 37.2.

2:16 pm ET: Lisa Marie Fergusson and Honor Me:

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

2:15 pm ET: Ok, looks like we’re about to get set to head out with the next pair. It’ll be Buck Davidson and Erroll Gobey next out.

2:15 pm ET: Looks like they’ve got a cart up to help Clayton. FE Money Made is said to be fine. We’re just on a bit of a delay right now.

2:11 pm ET: Rats! Clayton Fredericks takes a tumble from FE Money Made also at fence 10, the second skinny arrowhead at the top of the hill. That’ll be an abbreviated end to their day, sadly.

2:10 pm ET: Ariel and Leamore Master Plan surprisingly fall victim to the skinnies atop the hill at fence 10. She continued on to finish on the final set of corners and has now pulled up to save her horse for another day.

Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan

2:06 pm ET: Ah! Lisa Marie and “Tali” have a drive by at the pair of corners at fence 16. They very nearly make the time even with the resulting circle, coming home in 3 minutes 11 seconds. She’ll be bummed about that runout, but their round was beautiful aside from that small blip. On the next one, girl! Next out are Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan.

Lisa Marie Fergusson and Honor Me.

2:03 pm ET: Canadian pair Lisa Marie Fergusson and her Welsh Cob cross Honor Me will be our next to go. This pair loves cross country.

2:01 pm ET: Man, what a cross country horse LCC Barnaby is. And Lillian’s forward, going eye is something we can all emulate. They’re having a cracking go so far. Lillian’s having to take a bit more time to set up her keen Irish Sport Horse so they come home 10 seconds over the optimum.

1:58 pm ET: Bummer, Sara Kozumplik Murphy exits through the back door after she and Rubens came in a bit under powered to the second skinny atop the hill at fence 10. Rubens climbed through the arrowhead a bit, but they’re both going to fight another day. We’ll see Lillian Heard with LCC Barnaby leaving the start box next.

1:56 pm ET: Charlotte Collier remain on their two phase score of 41.6. Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Rubens D’Ysieux are our new starters.

1:55 pm ET: Charlotte Collier and Clifford M just laid down a beautiful round to cross the line clear inside the time. I’m not sure she took one tug, it was such a smooth round. Well ridden!

Charlotte Collier and Clifford M.

1:52 pm ET: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Quicksilver become our second to come home inside the optimum time!

1:48 pm ET: Doug Paybe and Quantum Leap are making quick work of this course and are going to prove my bet right! 3 minutes and 5 seconds gets them within the optimum of 3 minute 9 seconds.

1:45 pm ET: It looks like Joe Meyer and Bucaneer have picked up a technical elimination. We’re off with Doug Payne and Quantum Leap.

1:42 pm ET: Cornelia Dorr and Sir Patico MH are home clear, even looking a bit steady in places but they look to have come in at least close to the time. 3 minutes and 28 seconds was their time. Joe Meyer and Bucaneer have had a drive by out on course.

1:40 pm ET: 3.2 time will be added for Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration. Who will be our first clear inside the time of the day? My money’s on Doug Payne with Quantum Leap. Also, it looks like Erin Sylvester has withdrawn both of her horses, as have Lauren Kieffer with Veronica and Doug Payne with Vandiver.

1:38 pm ET: Cornelia Dorr and Sir Patico MH will be our next pair to see. Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration are home clear, waiting on their time.

Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration

1:37 pm ET: Hang on, Holly! She’s unseated as “Morris” gets close to a fence but she keeps her balance and kicks away to turn for home.

1:35 pm ET: 7.2 penalties to add for Anna Loschiavo and Spartacus Q after a great trailblazing round. Away now are Canada’s Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration, sitting on a score of 50.9.

1:33 pm ET: Spartacus Q is very keen and raring to go, really showing us that a forward stride will be rewarded today. It’s a tough job to be a pathfinder but this pair is setting a good example as they settle into a good rhythm.

1:32 pm ET: Our first pair is away! Anna Loschiavo and Spartacus Q had a bit of a disappointing show jumping round but will be out to seek a clear round today.

1:30 pm ET: Here are your top 10 heading into cross country. We’ll be seeing the remaining pairs in reverse order of go for what promises to be a thrilling finale here in Wellington.

$50,000 MARS Eventing Showcase Show Jumping Live Updates: Marilyn Little Keeps Lead

By on Feb 9, 2020 10:32 am -

Daniela Moguel and Cecelia. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

It’s just about go time for day two here at the $50,000 MARS Eventing Showcase! We’re getting ready to kick off show jumping, which will commence at 10:30 am ET. Keep refreshing this page for live updates from the action; if you’d rather watch yourself, you can find the show jumping live stream right here.

The time allowed for today’s show jumping will be 76 seconds for Andy Christiansen’s course today. Let’s get this started!

$50k MARS Eventing Showcase: Website, Entries, Dressage Order of Go, Live Scores, Show Jumping Live Stream, XC Live Stream,  EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

Here is your top 10 following show jumping:

11:52 am ET: Boyd Martin and Long Island T:

Boyd Martin and Long Island T. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

11:48 am ET: Marilyn needed one of her rails after an enthusiastic RF Scandalous made her way around, but they’ll still hold on to a sizable lead heading into cross country, which will begin at 1:30 pm ET.

11:45 am ET: Although she likely won’t need it, Boyd Martin has also given overnight leader Marilyn Little more breathing room with two down after an otherwise lovely, flowing round from Long Island T. They’ll drop down all the way to 11th after the costly rails. Marilyn will now take a 2-rail in hand lead into her round.

11:42 am ET: Foxwood High and Selena O’Hanlon had the second of the two-stride down as well as the first of the final line so they’ll be bumped down quite a bit sadly.

Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

11:41 am ET: Phillip and Z:

Phillip Dutton and Z. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

11:40 am ET: Another clear round, this one from Buck Davidson and Carlevo to remain on a 28.6 going forward.

11:38 am ET: A clear round from pro pair Phillip Dutton and Z to keep the pressure on our top 4!

11:36 am ET: One down, just the top rail of a vertical, for Ryan Wood and Powell. This will drop them down into 7th at the moment on a score of 33.5.

11:34 am ET: It’s a beautiful day here at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center! Is this even real life?

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

11:33 am ET: Another clear round for Liz Halliday-Sharp, this time with Deniro Z! They will keep their dressage score of 29.0 intact.

11:29 am ET: Lauren Kieffer and her veteran partner Veronica have fence 9 and the final fence down in an otherwise lovely round and return to this level for the 18-year-old mare.

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

11:28 am ET: Erin Sylvester and Paddy and Caddy have a smooth and efficient round with just one rail down at the green oxer at fence 9

11:27 am ET: Sharon White and Cooley On Show:

11:24 am ET: A beautiful clear round and a big huge smile from Sharon White and Cooley On Show. One of the loveliest rounds of the day. They’ll take their dressage score of 31.3 into the final phase.

11:24 am ET: Jacob Fletcher and Van Gough:

Jacob Fletcher and Van Gough. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

11:22 am ET: Fernhill Singapore takes a detour in the middle of the final line but Phil being Big Phil gets him back in line to clear the last.

11:20 am ET: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Quicksilver:

Liz Halliday Sharp and Deniro Z. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

11:19 am ET: 4 rails down for Doug and Quantum Leap. A tough challenge Mr. Christiansen has put forward today!

11:17 am ET: Correction: Doug Payne did not withdraw Quantum Leap and now brings him forward for his turn.

11:17 am ET: Jacob Fletcher throws his head back after knocking just the last fence down for a 46.5 following two phases.

11:16 am ET: Daniela Moguel and Cecelia:

Daniela Moguel and Cecelia. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

11:15 am ET: Jacob Fletcher and Van Gough will be our next to see as we step into the top 15.

11:14 am ET: Daniela Moguel and Cecelia jump a clear round as well! Have a day, ladies!

11:10 am ET: We have had several withdrawals before this phase: Boyd Martin/Tsetserleg, Ryan Wood/Rembrandt, Will Coleman/Off the Record, Katherine Coleman/Monte Classico, and Lynn Symansky/RF Cool Play.

11:09 am ET: Just inside the time with four rails down for Canada’s Kyle Carter and Reddy or Not.

11:08 am ET: Celien jumps a lovely clear for Hallie Coon to stay on their dressage score of 32.9.

11:07 am ET: FYI, this live update thread was supposed to be much more interesting than me typing a bunch of words. Hopefully I can get my technical trouble sorted for cross country. Just consider this the test run.

11:06 am ET: Buck Davidson uses all his expertise to pilot Erroll Gobey around for just one rail down. Made that pesky last line look good!

11:02 am ET: Man, this final line is really causing some issues today. Another victim, Cornelia with Sir Patico MH. Buck Davidson and Erroll Gobey will be up next.

11:00 am ET: A 50.9 two phase score for Holly Jacks-Smither after a four rail round. Next into the top 25 are Cornelia Dorr and Sir Patico MH.

10:59 am ET: One rail down for Joe Meyer with Bucaneer. Canada’s Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration are next to go.

10:58 am ET: Here is your Order of Go:

10:56 am ET: Doug Payne and Vandiver were a bit delayed coming to the ring after “Quinn” threw a shoe and unfortunately had four down to add to their score. It looked like Quinn may have thrown a shoe again coming out of one of the lines.

10:54 am ET: Clayton Fredericks and FE Money Made have a heartbreaker rail down at the last to go forward on a score of 39.1.

10:52 am ET: Ibella jumps absolutely out of her skin for Jennie to take the early lead with the third clear of the day!

10:51 am ET: Take a look at the course the riders are tackling today:

10:47 am ET: Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan have one rolling rail in the final line. Just two clear rounds so far, one from Joe Meyer and the other from Lisa Fergusson. Next up will be Jennie Brannigan with Ibella.

10:42 am ET: Unfortunately seven rails come down for Anna and Spartacus Q. Next we’ll see Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Rubens D’ysieux.

10:40 am ET: One costly rail down, the second of the double, for Charlotte and Clifford M to drop her down a couple of spots. Anna Loschiavo will ride next with Spartacus Q.

10:38 am ET: Lisa Marie and “Tali” will stay on their dressage score with another clear round. Next up are Charlotte Collier and Clifford M on a 37.6.

10:36 am ET: A clear round for Joe and Clip Clop! Next up will be Lisa Marie Fergusson with Honor Me for Canada. They bring forward a score of 40.5 from the dressage.

10:34 am ET: 12 jumping faults but clear on the time for Erin Sylvester and Campground. We’re running in reverse order of go from the dressage phase, and we’ll see Joe Meyer with Clip Clop next.

10:32 am ET: Our first to see today will be Erin Sylvester and Campground. This pair has a lot of experience here in Florida, winning the CCI4*-L at Ocala last year.

 

 

Preview the $50,000 MARS Eventing Showcase Cross Country Course

By on Feb 8, 2020 9:30 am -

Photo courtesy of JJ Sillman.

Captain Mark Phillips is back to design the always-exciting MARS Eventing Showcase in Wellington, happening today and tomorrow at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. It’s a brilliant weekend of equestrian sport, as week 5 of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival is running concurrently with the Showcase.

Thanks to friend of EN JJ Sillman, we’ve got a first look at the cross country course featuring 19 fences/jumping efforts. The course is set at an optimum time of 3 minutes, 9 seconds. The track walks fairly straightforward, JJ says, although a couple of related distances including a pair of skinnies atop the hill at fences 9 and 10 might be particularly interesting accuracy questions.

You can follow along with all the Showcase action live thanks to the efforts of Equestrian Sport Productions. Show jumping will kick off at 10:30 am E.T. tomorrow, followed by cross country at 1:30 p.m. ET. In the meantime, here’s a look at what the riders will be tackling tomorrow:

View from on top of hill

Posted by Jj Jayhawk Sillman on Friday, February 7, 2020

$50k MARS Eventing Showcase: Website, Entries, Dressage Order of Go, Live Scores, Show Jumping Live Stream, XC Live Stream,  EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

Empathy and Polish: A Clinic with Chris Burton

By on Feb 7, 2020 3:00 pm -

Chris Burton and Quality Purdey. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Australian speedster Chris Burton is currently on a tour of North America, teaching clinics on both coasts to eager riders ready to learn his tricks of the trade. Sara Kozumplik Murphy was one rider who participated in this past week’s clinic organized by Arden Wildasin in South Carolina, and the takeaways from Chris, who is well-known for his efficient, smooth, and quick style of riding across the country, abound.

“He is empathetic to the horses, doesn’t jump the legs off them by jumping too big or too much, and is extremely fair in how he presents the lines to the before adding difficulty,” Sara wrote in a Facebook post recapping her experience. “He allows the horses to travel the way they like to go naturally and is insistent on the riders finding a jumpable distance, then staying out of the way.”

Chris’ riding philosophy is evident when he teaches, focusing mostly on balance, riding with empathy, and putting a bit of polish on the top. And in some instances, going slow means going quick, taking more efficient turns in order to cover more ground.

One exercise that Chris used was a simple line of ground poles, in between which he challenged riders to get a variety of strides. Take a look at Sara piloting Devil Munchkin through this exercise:

The coolest little Kermit was one of the few horses able to stretch out to do a very long 3 in the poles yesterday during the Chris Burton clinic at Fox Nation in Aiken. He also did 10 strides 😊💗 Huge thank you to Arden for organizing this wonderful opportunity at your beautiful facility. All of us had a great time learning 🙌 #DevilMunchkin

Posted by Sara Kozumplik Murphy on Wednesday, February 5, 2020

Riding responsibly and with a responsive horse is an important step to increasing speed safely and laying down a smooth round. “What makes great cross country riders great is their ability to adapt to a sudden change in situation, even when things go quite against plan,” Sara wrote. “However you MUST be married to the fact that it is your job (and your job alone) to present your horse in balance to a realistic distance. You MUST understand when you have failed to do so. You MUST also take full responsibility on figuring out how to prevent it from happening again.”

You can read Sara’s full recap and watch more videos from her rides with Chris below:

For those of you who asked what I thought of Chris Burton’s clinic that Arden was cool enough to organize this…

Posted by Sara Kozumplik Murphy on Thursday, February 6, 2020

Chris Burton next heads to the West coast for a clinic at Galway Downs in Temecula, California this weekend, February 8-9. Auditing is available, and more information on doing so can be found here.

Year of the Pig: Don’t Miss This New Documentary from Horse & Country TV

By on Feb 7, 2020 1:00 pm -

If you’re seeking something new to watch next time you’ve got some free time, then we’ve got a treat for you. Horse & Country TV has just released a brand new documentary highlighting the epic 2019 British rider Piggy French experienced. In “Year of the Pig”, viewers will get a glimpse behind the scenes of one of the biggest stars of the last year.

2019 was truly Piggy’s year. Collecting 15 international wins — including one at a tiny show in the UK called Badminton — and countless top-5 finishes on a strong string of horses, it was truly a year in which hard work, grit, talent, and pure determination paid off in rare form. As Piggy focuses on the Olympic season ahead, it will be thrilling to follow along.

Horse & Country TV has released “Year of the Pig” for H&C Plus subscribers — and if you’re a diehard eventing fan, the subscription is well worthwhile. Horse & Country TV has also recently merged with EQSportsNet, another prominent figure on the equestrian streaming front. Subscriptions can be combined to access content on both platforms, including upcoming live streams. Subscriptions to H&C Plus start at just $9.99 per month with no commitment. Live streams and content such as “Year of the Pig” are valuable to growing our sports, so let’s do our part and support these platforms!

Your Ultimate Guide to the $50,000 MARS Eventing Showcase

By on Feb 7, 2020 11:00 am -

It’s nearly go time for the $50,000 MARS Eventing Showcase at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, Florida taking place Saturday, February 8 through Sunday, February 9. After taking the last two years off, the popular condensed format event makes its return with a strong roster of invited horses and riders ready for the challenge.

The action for the Eventing Showcase begins tomorrow with the dressage phase in front of judges Jame Hamlin (USA) and Nick Burton (GBR). The event will be a first big test of the new season for many of the pairs entered as they look ahead to their spring goals.

Daily Schedule:

SATURDAY, FEB 8
8:30am – 2:30pm: Dressage phase

SUNDAY, FEB 9
10:30am – 12:00pm: Stadium Jumping phase – Live Stream here

1:30pm – 4:00pm: Cross-country phase – Live stream here

There will be a free live stream available thanks to Equestrian Sport Productions, although the dressage on Saturday will not be streamed. Viewers can access show jumping beginning at 10:30 am ET on Sunday, followed by cross country at 1:30 pm ET on Sunday.

Admission is free to the public. For those wanting a true hospitality experience, Wellington style, there are VIP tickets and packages up for grabs at this link. Options are available for both single seats/single days as well as tables and full-spectrum VIP experiences. The Showcase could also use a couple more volunteers, which is a truly great opportunity for someone to experience an entirely different style of eventing — sign up at EventingVolunteers.com.

It’ll be a meeting of the EN minds this weekend as both Leslie Wylie and Tilly Berendt will be in Wellington all weekend long. Expect much ridiculousness to follow. We are thrilled to see the return of this remarkable event, and we’d like to give a special thanks to sponsors MARS Equestrian, Adequan, Ocala Horse Properties, and Horse Boxes USA for their generous support in bringing the Showcase back. Keep it locked right here on EN for all of the latest, greatest action yet to come. Go Eventing!

MARS Eventing Showcase: [Website][Entries][Dressage Order of Go][Live Scores][Show Jumping Live Stream][XC Live Stream][EN’s Coverage][EN’s Instagram]

Severe Storms Level Stable View Temporary Barns, Leave Path of Damage in Aiken

By on Feb 7, 2020 9:00 am -

Chelsea Spear contributed to this report.

It was nearly dark when a severe thunderstorm ripped through Aiken County, South Carolina yesterday, and as it was just a matter of minutes before thousands of dollars worth of damage was left in the storm’s path. Stable View, one of the premier venues for all disciplines in the Aiken area, took some of the most devastating damage and is today left to start the repair process with the first dressage show of the season approaching this weekend.

[UPDATE 2/7/20, 2:11 pm ET]: The National Weather Service has confirmed that an EF-1 tornado occurred in the area on February 6.

A storm survey team from US National Weather Service Columbia South Carolina has confirmed an EF-1 Tornado occurred…

Posted by US National Weather Service Columbia South Carolina on Friday, February 7, 2020

WHOA. This is the damage at Stable View Farms in Aiken County on Spring Field Church Road.Download WRDW On Your Side…

Posted by News 12 NBC 26 on Thursday, February 6, 2020

We’re happy to report that at the time of publication there have been no injuries to horses or people reported. However, Stable View is currently picking up the pieces of 100 temporary stalls, fencing and equipment and is facing massive structural and property repairs. Stable View owners Barry and Cyndy Olliff are already hard at work with the help of some volunteers preparing the property for repairs and for the arrival of competitors this weekend.

“Our focus at the moment is the event tomorrow,” Barry told EN. “There were about 75 horses and 40 people on the property at the moment and we’re relieved there were no injuries.”

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: As a result of a part of Stable View being hit by a tornado, we're sorry about our…

Posted by Stable View on Thursday, February 6, 2020

Sara Katz, who works with Julie Gomena and has her horses up the road, happened to be driving to Stable View at the time the storm hit. “It was weird because it was barely drizzling, and I was only going about 25 MPH,” she said. “I was driving down the road to Stable View when all of sudden I saw the temporary barn start lifting up and fly across the road in front of me. The stalls were going one by one, and then everything went pitch black because the wind rain were so strong. Debris started flying everywhere. I floored it in reverse and then something hit the truck and blew out the back window.

“Then just like that it just stopped. I basically saw the debris and wind, a tornado, and it crossed the street.  It was like watching a deer run across the road, it was so quick. Just came out of nowhere and could not see it anywhere and then all of a sudden it was just on us. If it was the front window that got hit with something, I may not be here. People think riding horses you are never in control, this was an out of control body experience. I felt so helpless, 100% helpless. I am so glad I was driving a big truck!”

The broken window of her truck. Photo by Sara Katz.

Valerie Vizcarrondo Pride is at Stable View for the winter season and has her horses, who are all fine, on the premises. She reported to EN that there are cross country jumps in the trees. Some of her staff was at Stable View when the storm hit (Valerie was walking her course for Pine Top!) and the girls said they looked past the covered arena and saw a funnel. They report that you could hear it before you could see it.

Many eventers in Aiken are gearing up for Pine Top Intermediate Horse Trials this weekend, and as as Valerie said, “The show must go on!” They are using a battery powered light to braid and get things ready. Valerie said, “We are incredibly lucky that all of the horses and the team are safe — everything else is fixable and replaceable and in fact already being addressed by the hardworking Stable View staff.”

Molly Koch, Vallerie’s groom, braiding by battery light in preparation for Pine Top. Photo by Valerie Vizcarrondo Pride.

Damage was spread throughout Aiken County, flooding roads, downing trees, and leaving many residents without power. This storm was widespread, causing high waters and severe weather all the way into Alabama, Mississippi, and North Carolina.

To that end, many of our fellow eventers and riders are in Aiken this winter and may be in need of your assistance. In particular, Stable View has requested the ongoing help of volunteers as they scramble to get the facility back up and running at full tilt. Each weekend forthcoming has an event scheduled, and the Olliffs aren’t cancelling.

“Stable View will be better than it was first time around, that’s the challenge and we’re giving ourselves a month to get this sorted so hopefully we’ll be in very good shape for the March (FEI event),” Barry said. If you’re able to help, Barry has requested volunteers who are able to help pick up and sort rubble and garbage and help with the clean-up of cross country, which Barry says is “devastated.” Please bring gloves, and Stable View will provide food. For more on how you can assist, please contact Barry Olliff directly at 215-313-3774.

Let’s band together and help our friends in Aiken, EN! If you see any other riders in need of assistance, please let us know by emailing [email protected].

Thursday Video from FLAIR: Jon Holling Analyzes a Viewer Submission

By on Feb 6, 2020 5:00 pm -

In the most recent episode of “The Long and Short of It,” Jon Holling tackled a viewer submitted video for some breakdown of cross country riding. I personally love the concept of video analysis, and having a top pro look at your ride from their perspective can be invaluable. I strongly encourage anyone who appreciates feedback to submit a video when they see an opportunity — the tidbits you can glean are useful for any rider!

If you’d like to submit a video for analysis, you can send it via email to Jon at [email protected]. Make sure the video is clear and that you have permission to use it!

Volunteer Nation: Can You Help These Events This Weekend?

By on Feb 6, 2020 1:04 pm -

Beautiful day out here fence judging @GalwayDowns! I got to see some pretty great rides including Ian Stark and Hawley Bennett + Jollybo!

Posted by Rob Burk on Saturday, February 1, 2020

Nothing like a little volunteering to get your weekend right! USEA CEO Rob Burk agrees, and he stopped by Galway Downs in Temecula, California last weekend to jump judge and help out. Thanks for your time, Rob!

We’re kicking off this week’s list of volunteer opportunities with a shout-out to the Horse Park of New Jersey’s 2019 Volunteer of the Year, Chris Boylan.

“Many in the eventing community know Chris as he was the cross country starter at the first Jersey Fresh in 2002, and has only missed being there only three times since its inception,” the Horse Park said in an award announcement. “In any given year, Chris likely talks to more than 500 competitors as they get ready to head out on cross country. Or looking at it another way, he has likely sent well over 8,500 riders out of the start box.

Chris started out as a “horse dad” who was inspired to ride himself in the 1990s by seeing some videos of eventing that looked exciting (the rider who inspired him being Bruce Davidson Sr.!), and eventually made his way to volunteering.

Chris is well recognized by returning riders to the Park, and on a first name basis with many of the top competitors. He offers reassurance to nervous riders, banters with the high level riders, and keeps the show running by coordinating with various officials. If you are at the Horse Park of NJ this year, be sure to say “hi” to Chris and thank him for being our ‘Volunteer of the Year’.”

Congratulations to Chris Boylan for being awarded the HPNJ 2019 Volunteer of the Year at this past weekends Breeders…

Posted by Horse Park of New Jersey at Stone Tavern, Inc. on Tuesday, January 28, 2020

Many happy returns, Chris, and thank you for being such an inspirational part of eventing!

[Update 2/7/20]: If you’re in the Aiken area this weekend, Stable View Farm is in need of volunteers as they work to clean up the severe damage left by a storm on Thursday of this week. Please consider helping out if you can, as the clean-up efforts will reach well into the coming weeks. You can find out more information here.

Here’s a look at some events in need of some extra helping hands this weekend. You can sign up for the shift or role you want directly through EventingVolunteers.com.

Event: Wellington Eventing Showcase
Date(s) volunteers needed: Saturday, February 8 through Sunday, February 9
Address: 13500 South Shore Boulevard, Wellington, FL, 33414
Positions available: XC Jump Judge, XC Jump Videographer, XC Start Timer, XC Steward, XC Warm-up, Hospitality Steward, SJ Steward, SJ Warm-up

Event: Pine Top Farm Intermediate Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday, February 7 through Sunday, February 9
Address: 1432 Augusta Hwy, Thomson, GA, 30824
Positions available: XC Jump Judge, Dressage Bit Check, Dressage Steward, SJ Jump Crew, XC Jump Judge

Event: Ocala Winter I
Date(s) volunteers needed: Today through Sunday, February 9
Address: 11008 S Highway 475, Ocala, FL, 34480
Positions available: XC Decoration, XC Finish Timer, XC Jump Judge, XC Score Runner, XC Warm-up, Dressage Check-in, Dressage Scribe

Can You Help These Riders Find Horses for the Aiken Eventing Showcase?

By on Feb 3, 2020 3:00 pm -

William Fox-Pitt and Sandro’s Star. Photo by Shelby Allen.

We are just a few weeks away from the second $50,000 Liftmaster Eventing Grand Prix at Bruce’s Field in Aiken, South Carolina. The event, to be held February 28 – 29, promises to be a thrilling showcase of eventing and is set to feature many top-billed riders who have been invited to compete. As this showcase approaches, we have word of two international riders who are still in search of catch rides for the weekend:

You may have heard of a British rider by the name of William Fox-Pitt, who was third placed at the 2019 showcase aboard Sandro’s Star. William is returning to the States to contest the Eventing Grand Prix once more and is looking for a horse to compete with. William is certainly no stranger to catch riding with great success — he also rode Anna Locshiavo’s Prince Renan for the Eventing Showcase at Central Park in 2017.

Christoffer Forsberg and Con Classic 2 (SWE). Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Also seeking a partner for the Grand Prix is Swedish 5-star rider Christoffer Forsberg, who has a long history at the top levels including a top-20 finish at Burghley in 2010 with Grafman. Christoffer is also an accomplished international show jumper, so whoever lends their horse to him should be in for an exciting weekend.

If you’ve got a horse that might be a good fit, check out the following criteria: As a USEF recognized event, horses must meet the Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MER) to compete in a CCI-L of the same height level. Horses need three Advanced MER, plus one Advanced MER with no more than 20 jumping penalties on cross country. One MER must be from within the 12-month period prior to the competition. If you would like to express interest in lending a horse, please contact Kate Boggan at [email protected].

Other international riders invited to appear include Great Britain’s Tom Crisp as well as Canadian and Australia stalwarts such as Colleen Loach, Holly Jacks-Smither, Ryan Wood, Waylon Roberts, Clayton Fredericks, and Jessica Phoenix.

The showcase is USEF recognized held at the Advanced level. Dressage is scheduled for the morning of Friday, February 28. Show jumping will follow on Friday afternoon with a course set at Advanced height and designed by Michel Vaillancourt. Cross country will be held Saturday, February 29. On Saturday you can also enjoy a beer fest which will double in size at this year’s event, as well as live music following cross country.

A $25 General Admission ticket will give you access to the event over both days. Click here to purchase general admission tickets.

VIP tickets cost $400 and include VIP parking, access to the ringside VIP tent, drinks and food, and tickets to Thursday’s welcome party. Click here to purchase VIP tickets.

Grand Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field: Website, Tickets, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

USEF Futures Team Challenge to Return to Carolina, Will Expand to Galway Downs

By on Feb 3, 2020 12:07 pm -

Team Erik Duvader, winners of the first Futures Team Challenge at Carolina International last year. Photos by USEA/Leslie Mintz.

After a successful first year of the USEF Futures Team Challenge program, intended to give young and developing riders a taste of team format competition, US Equestrian has announced the program’s return to Carolina International as well as an expansion to the fall international event at Galway Downs. The CCI4*-S and CCI3*-S will be used at Carolina, and the CCI4*-L and CCI3*-L will be used at Galway.

In 2019, teams competed at both Carolina International as well as Bromont.

“Last year was a trial of the program and the feedback was super-positive,” Performance Director Erik Duvander said in the press release. “I found it very valuable because it gave me the opportunity to work with athletes outside the training lists, and it gave those athletes the chance to put themselves forward for this program. We will constantly keep tweaking the program and continue improving it.”

Team Leslie Law for the 2019 Carolina International. Photos by USEA/Leslie Mintz.

The USEF Futures Team Challenge is a part of the U.S. Eventing Pathway Program. Designed to simulate a team competition, the Team Challenge provides opportunity for two teams of four, one coached by Erik Duvander and one coached by U.S. Developing and Emerging Coach Leslie Law, to compete at select events. Athletes can submit applications for consideration by the USEF Performance Advisory Team beginning on Monday, February 3. Applications must be submitted no later than Monday, February 24. Following the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ selection criteria, athletes will be selected based on their results, potential, willingness to learn, and commitment to developing into future team athletes.

“It’s a great opportunity to expose athletes in this country to a team experience,” Leslie Law commented. “In Europe, athletes get a lot of experience with the Nations Cups, and we’re limited in the U.S. by how much team experience we can give to our athletes. This program aims to give our athletes the same opportunity to get exposure to a team competition. I think it’s really valuable to give our athletes this opportunity so that when we go up against the rest of the world in team competitions, they’ve already had experience in a team environment.”

Galway Downs organizer Robert Kellerhouse, a staunch supporter of the continued promotion and support of eventing on the west coast, is excited to bring the Futures Team Challenge to Area VI. “The Futures Team Challenge has so many elements of excitement and team-building,” he said. “We are looking forward to it paying dividends in the future for our U.S. Eventing Team, as well as providing our community with some incredible competition. All of this is only because of the USEF High Performance efforts to bring the Futures to Galway, and we are really looking forward to making it a huge success.”

[USEF Futures Team Challenge Competitions Announced for 2020]

Nupafeed Weekend Winners: Galway Downs, Three Lakes, Sporting Days

By on Feb 3, 2020 11:00 am -

Team Next Level Eventing and friends celebrate a Chiefs Super Bowl win. Photo via Next Level Eventing on Facebook.

Well, it wouldn’t be a post about winning without letting this Chiefs fan go a little nuts after seeing the Kansas City football team take the Super Bowl win last night for the first time in 50 years. This win was particularly special for the Next Level Eventing team — Heather Morris’ late brother, Dylan, was a huge Chiefs fan. This one was for you, Dylan! If you want to help celebrate in Dylan’s name, please consider making a donation to F*ck Cancer here.

In the meantime, a grand weekend of eventing was had on both coasts, with recognized events running in each major winter eventing hub. Riders ventured out to knock off some more off-season rust at Galway Downs in southern California, Sporting Days in Aiken, and Three Lakes in Ocala.

There was some hot competition for this weekend’s unofficial lowest score award, but in the end it was Lea Adams-Blackmore and Fernhill Frostbite who will take home the nod with a 17.1 in the Open Novice B division at Three Lakes. Hot on Lea’s tail were Alyssa Phillips and Cornelius Bo, who scored a 17.6 in the Open Novice A division. I think I scored a 17 on a dressage test once. Only it wasn’t an eventing dressage test. Well done, ladies!

Let’s get to the rest of this weekend’s big winners. Congratulations to all and Go Eventing!

Galway Downs Winter Horse Trials:  [Website] [Final Scores]

Advanced CT: Erin Kellerhouse and Woodford Reserve (29.3)
Open Intermediate: Emilee Libby and Jakobi (27.7)
Open Preliminary: Emilee Libby and Toska (28.7)
Preliminary Rider: Meg Pellegrini and Dassett Richochet (24.1)
Junior Training Rider: Gabriella Ringer and Get Wild (28.8)
Open Training: Sara Sellmer and Casualleigh (27.6)
Senior Training Rider: Madison Langerak and Normandy’s Kivalo (30.4)
Junior Novice Rider: Shelby Murray and Sonik Mambo No. 5 (27.6)
Open Novice: Erin Kellerhouse and Smarty Pants GWF (29.8)
Senior Novice Rider: Kassandra Wilsey and #IWokeUpLikeThis (27.6)
Introductory Roder: Ava Torres and WKD Lad (35.8)
Junior Beginner Novice: Lauren Roberts and Cabela (32.5)
Open Beginner Novice: Nick Cwick and Raggio Di Luna (27.8)
Open Introductory: Olivia Miller and Convince Me (33.3)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider: Kate Flaherty and Eli’s Coming (31.8)

Sporting Days Farm I:  [Website] [Final Scores]

Open Preliminary: Boyd Martin and Fernhill Prezley (28.9)
Preliminary Horse: Kevin Keane and HH Ontario (25.9)
Preliminary Rider: Laura Douglas and Sophia Fab (35.5)
Open Training: Tim Bourke and Cavalier Rockstar (28.2)
Preliminary/Training: Skyler Decker and HHS Iris (27.8)
Training Horse: Jessica Ebzery and Absolut Cooley Quality (26.6)
Training Rider: Finley Habenicht and Aleta NSF (30.9)
Novice Rider: Barbara Warren and Holy City (30.7)
Open Novice A: Matt Brown and Sunsprite’s Huatulco (25.8)
Open Novice B: Amanda Beale Clement and BE Maxwell 16 (27.1)
Beginner Novice Rider: Abigail Gallagher and Ziggy Stardust (28.3)
Open Beginner Novice: Michele Kuchta and Fiji (22.0)
Starter: Heather Sinclair and Force Ten (31.4)

Three Lakes Winter I Horse Trials: [Website] [Final Scores]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Maxine Preston and Shannondale Magnum (48.4)
Open Preliminary A: Caroline Martin and Redfield Carmen Zita (28.7)
Open Preliminary B: Kyle Carter and Gaillards Lancer (33.5)
Preliminary Rider: Michael Tansey and Johnny Hawk (54.9)
Open Training A: Jessica Phoenix and FE Akari (20.3)
Open Training B: Sharon White and Zig Zag 4 (23.3)
Open Training C: Caroline Martin and Redfield Galwaybay HSH (26.7)
Training Rider: Angelika Beutel and Alwin (27.4)
Novice Rider: Aline Briot and Kid Rock (25.7)
Open Novice A: Alyssa Phillips and Cornelius Bo (17.6)
Open Novice B: Lea Adams-Blackmore and Fernhill Frostbite (17.1)
Open Novice C: Katherine DeLaney and Elbaran (29.5)
Beginner Novice Rider: Sophia Carattini and Artax (29.2)
Open Beginner Novice: Katherine DeLaney and Sommersby (23.6)

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It's not always about the ribbon. It's about training hard, doing your best, having a good time, learning from your mistakes, and kissing your horse, thanking him for a great ride. Kat and Cody competed at Three Lakes Horse Trials this weekend. They had a great dressage test, one rail in stadium, then did a little sight seeing on cross country, giving them lots of time faults, finishing in 12th place. You can hear her yelling "good boy" over every jump, see that huge smile on her face, and watch her reach down to pet Cody as they race across the finish line. Even though they had time, the clear jump round gave them the qualifying ride they needed to qualify for AEC 2020. Thank you @marenfoster, you are always amazing! #waterfordeventing #eventing #eventingnation #ottb #tjctip #tipambassadors #thoroughbredincentiveprogram #aec2020 #roadtoaec2020

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Thursday Video: Ins and Outs of Cross Country Course Design

By on Jan 30, 2020 5:00 pm -

It is fascinating to get inside the mind of a course designer. The amount of detail that goes into setting each fence, each line, each combination according to terrain and a multitude of other factors is nothing short of astounding.

In the latest video from the FEI, French course designer Pierre Le Goupil walks us through what he enjoys about course design and what all goes into the work. Take a look, and if you’re thinking of starting your journey to obtaining your course design certification, stay tuned for a new series here on EN on how to accomplish that goal!

Go Eventing.

Volunteer Nation: Get Those Hours In at These Four Events This Weekend

By on Jan 30, 2020 11:00 am -

Jump crew at Fair Hill. Volunteers needed at your local event! Photo by Holly Covey

How many volunteer hours have you logged in 2020, EN? One new feature of the USEA Volunteer Incentive Program in 2020 is the introduction of a new medal system. This is an effort to recognize volunteers as they dedicate their time to helping the sport each year. All hours logged through EventingVolunteers.com will be counted towards the medal totals, which are as follows:

Bronze Medal: 500 volunteer hours
Award: embroidered polo, pin, certificate

Silver Medal: 1000 volunteer hours
Award: embroidered vest, pin, certificate

Gold Medal: 2000 volunteer hours
Award: embroidered jacket, pin, certificate

Bear in mind that hours must be logged through EventingVolunteers.com and that only hours submitted for recognized events will count towards the medal program — but please don’t let that stop you from helping out at your local schooling show, too! We’ll list all such opportunities in this post each week. Get out, go volunteer, and have fun!

Event: Sporting Days Farm Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday, January 31 through Saturday, February 1
Address: 3549 Charleston Hwy, Aiken, SC, 29801
Positions available: XC Jump Judge, Dressage Bit Check, SJ In Gate, SJ Jump Crew

Area VI eventers can benefit from volunteering at Galway Downs this weekend by picking up certificates that can be redeemed for cross country schoolings! A full day of volunteering will earn you a $50 certificate, and a half day of four hours or less will get you a $25 certificate that can now be used on entry fees, schooling fees, Galway Downs gear, or Galways Downs memberships.

Event: Galway Downs Winter Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday, January 31 through Sunday, February 2
Address: 38801 Los Corralitos Road, Temecula, CA, 92592
Positions available: XC Ring Steward, XC Timers, Dressage Ring Steward, Dressage Scribe, XC Jump Judge, XC Score Runners, SJ Ring Steward

Event: 2020 MDHT February Cross Derby
Date(s) volunteers needed: Saturday, February 1
Address: 1235 Park Mills Road, Adamstown, MD, 21710
Positions available: All positions are currently filled, but please contact the show if you’d like to help out!

Event: Superbowl Schooling Horse Trials at Meadow Creek Park
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday, January 31 through Sunday, February 2
Address: 1342 Highway 14 South, Kosse, TX, 76653
Positions available: Early Prep – Dressage & SJ, Parking Steward, Office Help, Dressage Scribe, Dressage Warm-up, Floater, General Announcer, SJ Jump Crew, SJ Scribe, SJ Timer, SJ Warm-up, XC Control, XC Finish Timer, XC Jump Judge, XC Start Timer, XC Warm-up

Ready, Steady, Tokyo: An Update on Construction and Development

By on Jan 29, 2020 1:00 pm -

We are eagerly anticipating this year’s Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan, and the city has been hard at work constructing what has been labeled the most sustainable Olympic Games in history. Thanks to the donations of Japanese citizens, the Olympic medals this year will be uniquely constructed from recycled mobile phone parts, and it was recently announced that the traditional Olympic torch will be fueled by hydrogen for the first time in an effort to leave as small of an environmental footprint as possible.

Of course, putting on an event of this magnitude is a massive undertaking. But leave it to the Japanese to leave no stone unturned as they ready new complexes for the Olympic athletes that will descend on the city in August. On Twitter, the Tokyo 2020 page posted a first look at the newly constructed, energy efficient Athletes’ Village. Take a peek:

One of the eternal questions surrounding the Games and their ongoing impact on host cities is that of the fate of the new construction, often hastily built and left empty in the wake of the Olympiad. This year, the Athletes’ Village was constructed from 40,000 pieces of timber donated by various Japanese municipalities. After the conclusion of the Games, these buildings will be deconstructed and the timber returned to the donating municipalities for re-use.

You can view the entire outline for Japan’s sustainability plans for Tokyo here. Take a look at some of the other latest developments from #Tokyo2020:

Stay tuned for all the latest from Tokyo right here on EN! Just 176 days left to go! Looking for all you need to know about eventing in this year’s Olympics? Get the low-down here.