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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

Nupafeed Weekend Winners: Kicking Off 2020 at Majestic Oaks

By on Jan 13, 2020 1:00 pm -

We’re back with the first edition of Weekend Winners for the new year! This weekend, the American eventing season officially kicked off at Majestic Oaks in Reddick, Florida where riders knocked off the rust and opened the pipes from the Starter through Preliminary levels. Majestic Oaks has initiated a point system and prize money to encourage competitors to come back for their March event. A total of $4,125 is on the line for riders who meet qualifications — and this goes for riders at all levels! Prize money is awarded to the winning rider/horse combinations after the conclusion of the March Horse Trials.

We’ve got a special treat from the weekend, as friend of EN Lisa Madren was on the ground at Majestic Oaks with her camera in hand. Scroll down for a full winner gallery from all divisions. In the meantime, let’s take a look at the results and social media from the first official eventing weekend of 2020:

Majestic Oaks H.T. [Website] [Final Scores]

Open Preliminary: Caroline Martin and Cheranimo (29.0)
Preliminary Rider: Samantha Tinney and Glenbrook Cooley (29.0)
Open Training A: Leslie Law and Rock On Cooley (20.5)
Open Training B: Andrea Davidson and Victor B Z (25.7)
Training Rider: Catherine Shu and 24 Karat Fernhill (31.0)
Novice Rider: Ellie Celarek and FWF Princess Shatka (26.9)
Open Novice A: Will Zuschlag and Lincara TWF (22.1)
Open Novice B: Kelly Prather and Southern Chrome (26.7)
Beginner Novice Rider: Gillian Matheson and Imagine That (31.5)
Open Beginner Novice: Caroline Martin and Redfield Galwaybay HSH (21.8)
Starter: Jamie Bassett and Master Higgins (30.2)

Thursday Video from Professional’s Choice: The Madden Method for Blanketing

By on Jan 9, 2020 5:00 pm -

We have a special edition of Beezie and John Madden’s popular video series, “The Madden Method” for you today, EN! Even the more casual show jumping followers will likely recognize the name Authentic. Best known for helping Beezie win two Olympic medals (2004 and 2008) and two WEG medals (2006), countless Grand Prixs, and Horse of the Year honors on multiple occasions, the KWPN gelding is a world famous name who currently lives in well-deserved retirement on “Madden Mountain” in Cazenovia, New York. And in this latest video, Authentic is the star of the show as the resident field horse/young horse babysitter.

To blanket or not to blanket — it’s the age old debate that horse owners muddle over each winter. There are several schools of thought on the concepts of blanketing and clipping, and of course there is a horse’s natural body chemistry to factor in as well. This is where Madden head girl Becky Huestis focuses the latest Madden Method video. Becky takes us through the ins and outs of horse’s winter coats, clipping, and blanketing throughout the winter. If you haven’t watched any of the Madden Method videos, we highly recommend them, not only for the tips and advice but also for the great explanation of the “why” behind the method.

Becky also lists out some best practices for field horses in the winter as well as tips for managing their comfort both inside and out during colder temperatures. Bookmark this and be sure to check out the rest of the Madden Method videos here.

Volunteer Nation: We’re Back!

By on Jan 9, 2020 1:00 pm -

From the the Marlborough Horse Trials Facebook page: “Getting our volunteers started young! Big th anks to these pony clubbers (and more) for helping with jump painting today! We ❤️our volunteers!”

It’s just about time for eventing season to start fresh — and that means there are opportunities aplenty for volunteering and helping your local event thrive. Since the launch of the USEA Volunteer Incentive Program (VIP) in 2015, volunteers have had the ability to keep track of their hours in order to be eligible for local and national awards. In 2019, over 45,000 volunteer hours from over 3,000 volunteers were recorded at events around the country. Can we grow that number even more in 2020?

With this in mind, I challenge all of you to step up and volunteer this year. It’s tough in our sport to find the time — we know eventers are a busy bunch. But consider helping with set-up in the days before an event, help with tear down in the mornings or evenings, or simply reach out to the event’s volunteer coordinator if you’re unsure how you can help. And don’t forget, you can always see available positions (and sign up for them) on EventingVolunteers.com, which is where you can track your time. Each week here on EN, we’ll round up the events in need of help for the coming weekend — but it’s never too early to plan ahead! Let’s get those volunteer spots filled this weekend — here are two events that could use a hand:

Event: Majestic Oaks Recognized Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Today through Sunday, January 12
Address: 17500 N US Highway 441, Reddick, FL, 32686
Positions available: SJ Jump Crew, XC Jump Judge, Crossing Guard

Event: Carolina Horse Park Pipe Opener I
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday, January 10 through Saturday, January 12
Address: 2814 Montrose Rd., Raeford, NC, 28376
Positions available: Event Prep – SJ, Dressage Steward

Eventers Chime in to Promote OTTBS with #NeverEclipsed Campaign

By on Jan 9, 2020 9:00 am -

If you’ve spent any time on social media this week, you’ve in all likelihood noticed a new hashtag making its way around the horse community. #NeverEclipsed is a social media campaign launched by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association to salute the versatile off-track Thoroughbred as the 49th Annual Eclipse Awards for Thoroughbred racing approach later this month.

You can participate in the #NeverEclipsed campaign, which stops taking submissions on January 17. Select submissions will be shown, highlight-reel style, during the awards ceremony at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Florida. Note: Thanks to our readers for pointing out that posts on Facebook and Twitter using #NeverEclipsed will be used, and Instagram is not mentioned as an eligible platform for selection into the highlight reel.

We’ve seen plenty of eventers jumping on the wagon, so here is a round-up of a few of our favorite #NeverEclipsed posts. Don’t forget to add yours to the mix to promote the breed most loved by event riders the world over! Go OTTBS, and Go Eventing.

#nevereclipsed #SimplyPriceless aka kalinga Damo(his Australian track name) the thoroughbred that gives me wings ❤️❤️:) #gojohnnygo

Posted by Elisa Wallace on Wednesday, January 8, 2020

#nevereclipsedRaced under the Jockey club name MightyrecklessHollywood and I living the dream!

Posted by Kelly Sult-Ransom on Wednesday, January 8, 2020

View this post on Instagram

Jumping on the #ottb #nevereclipsed bandwagon, because god forbid I pass up any opportunity to brag about my kiddos. 💙💚 I brought both kiddos from their second ride off the track to prelim and I couldn’t be more proud of them. Cassius C aka Donnie aka Donatello. 23: 2, 2, 9. Earning $34.6K. My first event horse and taught me the hard way everything I know. He’s temperamental, sassy, has more opinions than I care for, and my ultimate heart horse. We’ve traveled all across the county, won countless ribbons at events and jumper shows, taken home our fair share of year end awards, and now he cruises around beginner novice and novice like the queen he was meant to be. He has endless heart it’s the coolest feeling in the world on cross country when he digs deep and steps his gallop and jump into another gear. T Hop aka Oscar aka Valhalla 16: 1, 2, 2. Earning $7.7K The horse I stumbled onto when I wasn’t even horse shopping. Philly said I had to have him and he’d change my life. I took a leap of faith and bought him even though he failed his PPE. The first year was rough with the baby dinosaur, he was slow to trust, would lose his legs out from under him at the canter and fall over and it felt like we were constantly out of control. A slow start to his eventing career was exactly what he needed, as he effortlessly cruised around his first season at prelim this year. He’s by far the most game horse I’ve ever ridden, and every day impresses me with how much he continues to grow up. Every time we think he’s hit his max he shows us he’s just a little lazy and unimpressed. Can’t wait to see where he goes. I am SO blessed these failed racehorses found their way into my life and continue to bless me with their strong personalities, insane athleticism, and unconditional love. I love the #nevereclipsed campaign and seeing how versatile and awesome off-the-track thoroughbreds are. 🐎

A post shared by Ashley Harvey DeWitt (@hd_eventing) on

Happily Twisted #nevereclipsed 2016 came off track, 2019 ran his first 3*. Horse of a lifetime

Posted by Kim Wendel on Wednesday, January 8, 2020

#nevereclipsed to the horse that gave me limitless wings. There will never be another❤️ #GoAlGo #anthonypatch #yesimcryingpostingthese #unforgettablememories #internationAL

Posted by Lainey Ashker on Wednesday, January 8, 2020

#NeverEclipsed Radio Flyer by Stick Together, out of Gypsy Hoofer. Off the track in '98, he brought me back to the…

Posted by Dorothy Crowell on Thursday, January 9, 2020

Kulik Lodge (Curlin) bred and raced by Stonestreet Farm. He ran 12 times, earned $180,000. Now he’s leaping big into his…

Posted by Wendy Uzelac Wooley on Wednesday, January 8, 2020

Nupafeed Weekend Winners: EquiRatings Crowns 2019 Horse of the Year

By on Jan 6, 2020 1:00 pm -

Cathal Daniels and Rioghan Rua make easy work of the final line. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Just one more week until eventing begins anew in the U.S. and our Nupafeed Weekend Winners column returns to business as usual. In the interim, however, the EquiRatings Horse of the Year prize is one that diehard eventing fans all over the world anxiously await at the end of each season. True to the concept of fan engagement, EquiRatings involves a social media vote each year to help decide the eventual winner. The tournament style voting pits top horses against one another, making for a truly agonizing decision on the part of the voters. Just look at the agony pulled from the comments on each poll!

“How can you pitch these pair of amazing horses against each other???!!!”
“This is like choosing between oxygen and food.”
“Man, this one is just mean.”
“No, this is too much stress for Boxing Day. We’re all too fragile.”

The final round of voting pitted Ingrid Klimke’s SAP Hale Bob OLD against Cathal Daniels’ Rioghan Rua. But, one horse must prevail over the rest, and the eventual crowned #ERHOTY19 is none other than the red princess, Rioghan Rua, piloted for Ireland by the immensely talented Cathal Daniels.

She has done it. In the fifth year of #ERHOTY we have our first ever Irish winner – Rioghan Rua. A hugely popular mare,…

Posted by EquiRatings on Monday, December 30, 2019

Rioghan Rua needs little introduction. The 13 year old Irish Sport Horse mare (Highland Destiny x Jack of Diamonds) owned and bred by Margaret and Frank Kinsella has spent her entire FEI career with Cathal and burst onto the five-star radar with a top-15 placing at Pau in 2016. The pair followed this up with a smashing Badminton debut, making short work of a demanding cross country course despite the mare’s diminutive size. Rioghan Rua and Cathal Daniels went on to represent Ireland at WEG in 2018 and capped off an incredible 2019 season with an Under 25 CCI4*-L win at Bramham and an individual bronze at the European Eventing Championships at Luhmühlen in August.

Cathal Daniels and Rioghan Rua speed across the finish. Photo by William Carey.

We’ve certainly not seen the last (or, likely, the greatest) from this Irish super-duo, and we’re equally thrilled to see the chestnut mare well represented with such a classic example of where pure heart, determination, grit, and talent can get you. We wish Cathal and the newly crowned #ERHOTY19 the best of luck as the 2020 season draws closer! Go Eventing.

Dreaming of a Three Day? Here Are Your USEA Classic Series Dates for 2020

By on Jan 6, 2020 11:00 am -

The three-day vet box at The Event at Rebecca Farm. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

The classic long format event is one that many of us have always wanted to complete. The challenge of getting a horse traditionally “three day fit” has evolved over time with the changing of formats, but one thing the USEA has done throughout the years is stay true to the sport’s roots with the USEA Classic Series.

Returning for the 2020 calendar, riders at levels from Beginner Novice through Preliminary will have several opportunities around the country to compete in a long format three-day event. Take a look at the full schedule here.

Why Do a Three Day?

Aside from the requisite “cool factor” that comes with completing a three day, there are endless learning opportunities during the process. For starters, learning how to get a horse fit and keep it sound during the process is something we should all be well-versed in, at any level. Fitness for both horse and rider is something that varies from breed to breed and from level to level. However, your horse (and you!) should be fit enough for the challenge that is a long format event, so taking your conditioning work seriously is great practice, no matter what level you plan to compete at.

In addition, competing in a three day allows riders to experience all four phases of cross country, from the warm-up Roads and Tracks phase to the 10 minute vet box. Learning the basics of temperature, respiratory rate, and heart rate will serve you well as you prepare for a Classic Series event.

How Do I Qualify?

You can check the qualification requirements for each level here. Brushing up on requirements should be something that is done at the start of each season as you map out your competition plans. Don’t get caught unaware of you and your horse’s qualification status!

Good luck to all, and Go Eventing! Which Classic Series event are you targeting this year?

USEA Announces Classic Series Dates for 2020

Thursday Video from Professional’s Choice: 10 Questions with Oliver Townend

By on Jan 2, 2020 5:00 pm -

Oliver Townend loves the smell of victory, but his other favorite smell is a good cooked breakfast. He also enjoys a good vacation and dinner in Barbados. How do we know this? Well, the world number one event rider recently sat down with one of his sponsors, TRM Supplements, to answer a few burning questions including his favorite horses and breeding lines, favorite event, and much more. Get to know Oliver a little better in this quick interview!

If Horses Made New Year’s Resolutions

By on Jan 1, 2020 12:00 pm -

While you’re busy making a list of self-improvements for the upcoming year, your horse may just be doing the same thing. As much as we love them, surely there are some things we’d put on our horses’ resolution list. If horses were the type to make New Year’s resolutions, here are some we’d most likely see, along with a look back at some of our favorite naughty horses from the last decade:

I promise to not start a fight at feeding times (only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays).

I promise not to paw in the water trough for hours but then refuse to set foot in the water jump.

I promise not to roll within 15 minutes after a bath (anything after 16 minutes is fair game).

I promise not to spook at plastic bags. Or minis. Or cars. Or leaves. Or my own shadow.

I promise not to impersonate a giraffe in our dressage tests (but only if the judge seems nice).

I promise to jump everything on the first (or second) attempt.

I promise not to run too far away if my rider falls off (though I take zero responsibility for the fall itself).

I promise not to use manure as a pillow (but, really, have you tried it?).

I promise to keep my fly mask on and not shred my blankets, no matter how much my friends make fun of me for wearing them.

I promise to stop practicing my flying during the trot-up. Rumor has it that this is frowned upon, but it sure makes for a great photo.

Cheers to a happy, successful 2020 full of wide open cross country courses and well-behaved horses!

Six New Year’s Resolutions You’ll Actually Want to Keep in 2020

By on Jan 1, 2020 9:00 am -
2018 AEC Jr. Beginner Novice champions Ella Robinson and Fernhill Fearless des Terdrix. Photo by Leslie Wylie. 2018 AEC Jr. Beginner Novice champions Ella Robinson and Fernhill Fearless des Terdrix. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Whether or not you’re a resolution maker, there’s something about the clean slate feeling of a new year that makes us feel optimistic for the future. It’s easy to write out a list of all the things we want to change in the new year, but for the sake of being realistic it’s important to set goals that are attainable. Even if you don’t make a list of resolutions, it’s still an optimal time of year for reflection and goal setting for the upcoming season — and we all know how much eventers love to plan out their year in horse terms!

If you’re grasping about for some resolutions or improvements to make in 2020, allow us to help get you started:

Resolve to learn more. Much as with other skills, the art of riding is something that must be continually practiced and improved upon. No matter how many years of experience you have under your belt, there is always something to improve. There is no shame in learning a new lesson, and there will always be someone who has something new to teach you. Attend a clinic, even just to audit. Watch more live streams or replays. We have three entirely different phases to fine tune — it’s a process, and learning to embrace it will make you a more complete rider.

Resolve to get fitter outside of the saddle. No matter what your stance is on barn work as exercise, it remains a fact that fitness is an important component of a rider’s skill tool set and it’s an element that many of us don’t take into enough consideration. But don’t worry, it’s not about resolving to go to the gym every day — if you’re like most riders, time is limited, and it’s precious. So instead of setting up a badass but perhaps unrealistic in terms of time workout plan, find opportunities in your existing schedule for some extra exercise. Laura Crump Anderson has some great pointers for rider fitness right here on EN — click here to read her articles.

Resolve to start treating yourself like the athlete you are. Taking care of your body is important, and it goes beyond fitness. You wouldn’t ask your horse to push through pain, would you? Yes, it’s true that taking off time is nearly impossible when life will always press on without you, but take the care to invest in proper care when you’re nursing an injury or illness. Go to your physical therapy appointments. Book a sports massage once a month. Eat healthy and eat enough. Your body is half of the equation out there on cross country. Do you want to be at anything less than 100 percent?

Resolve to learn more about your horse. Establishing a bond with your horse goes beyond riding every day. Take your horse’s vitals periodically. Learn all of their normal routines and behaviors so that it’s easier to know when something is amiss. Listen to your gut. Learn their mannerisms at feeding time, in turn out, under saddle, away from home. It’s likely you already know all of these — great job! How can you take your bond with your horse to the next level this year? Try some horsemanship or tackless work on the ground. Go somewhere new with your horse. Dabble in other disciplines. Learn to listen more closely to what your horse is telling you.

Resolve to be nicer to others. With the increased use of social media, I’ve found it’s easy to get sucked into the gossip and rumor mill. This year, let’s resolve to give it a rest. Stop gossiping so much. If we spent the time it takes to have a twenty minutes text conversation about a peer watching a few of Ingrid Klimke’s videos or doing some rider fitness work, think of how much progress we’d make on our own individual riding.

Resolve to remember your bite-sized goals. The concept of setting bite-sized goals has always stuck with me. I think that a lot of us, myself included, get caught up in the end goal. In the process, we miss out on the steps it takes to get there. We get discouraged. We experience setbacks. Those goals seem more like dreams. To make life more manageable, less defeating, the idea of bite sized goals is a lifeline. Just as with any other resolution — going Prelim, running a 5k, reading more, meditating, losing weight — it’s easy to get caught up in absolutes and unrealistic expectations. So write out a list of bite-sized goals — manageable, small changes you can make. You might find that those lead to the bigger changes you never thought would be possible.

So, EN, we want to hear it: what are your goals and resolutions for the new year?

Ingrid Klimke is Now Eligible for Not One, but Two Olympic Spots, Because That’s How Queens Roll

By on Dec 23, 2019 1:30 pm -

Life goals: Be like Ingrid. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Why be an Olympian, when you could be a dual Olympian? We’re already familiar with double European eventing champion and five-time Olympian Ingrid Klimke — but some casual followers may not know that Germany’s reigning queen has reached the upper echelons of success in the dressage arena, too. Now, word comes that Ingrid has achieved Olympic qualification for the German dressage team, making her eligible to become the first equestrian to compete in two disciplines at the same Games since Mark Todd in 1992.

Ingrid competed Franziskus, an 11 year old Hanoverian stallion owned by Wilhem Holkenbrink, in Frankfurt over the weekend where she earned a new personal best score of 76.128% in the Grand Prix Special for second place in the division.

Of course, only time will tell if Ingrid will travel to Tokyo this summer with two horses, one, or none, but take a moment to just marvel at the dedication, talent, and drive (not to mention disdain for everyday luxuries such as sleep or vacation) that it takes to achieve Olympic qualification for two sports. Ingrid is also joined by China’s Liang Ruiji (qualified for eventing and show jumping) and fellow countryman Michael Jung (qualified for eventing and show jumping) as potential dual athletes.

As #Tokyo2020 hurtles closer and closer, the fervor surrounding the team announcements will surely heat up with the potential double threats poised to make history. Stay tuned for more as these storylines develop!

If you haven’t watched a full ride from Ingrid and Franziskus, then this freestyle performance from this summer at Weisbaden (where she also took third in the ERM leg aboard SAP Hale Bob OLD, no big deal) should make you a lifelong fan:

The Event Horse Decade Challenge: Catching Up with Fan Favorites

By on Dec 23, 2019 9:00 am -

We’ve released our own version of the #DecadeChallenge that’s been making waves on social media recently, starting with video footage from each CCI5* event around the world. It’s fascinating to see how things change, and it’s equally mind-blowing to think of how quickly a decade passes.

I remember fall of 2010. I received a phone call from a barn mate asking if I wanted to hop in her car for a last-minute trip to the World Equestrian Games that were happening a couple states away in Kentucky. I was working in retail at the time, so getting a day off approved on short notice was tough to do. Yet somehow, after much convincing, my boss came over and tapped me on the shoulder and told me to enjoy my trip. We left at 2 a.m. to drive to Lexington and got there just in time to find a prime spot at the Head of the Lake for the cross country. I remember watching my favorites: Henry Jota Hampton, Grass Valley, Nereo. The magnitude of having the Games on U.S. turf was not lost on me, and I felt lucky to be there seeing it all in person — even if we had to return home that evening so I could be at work the following day.

And somehow, 10 years have passed since that day. As I cobbled together this fan-favorite #DecadeChallenge, I couldn’t help but take a walk down memory lane and think of the moments that shaped my love of eventing since that chilly, sunny day in October. It’s fun to look back and see how far we’ve come. Without further waxing poetic, enjoy this look at a handful of popular horses back then and today!

Donner:

Donner’s very first event! Photo by GRC Photo.

Lynn Symansky and Donner (USA). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Ballynoe Castle RM:

Buck Davidson and Ballynoecastle RM. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Ballynoe Castle RM (Reggie) taking his retirement role very seriously. Photo by Kathleen Murray.

Snooze Alarm:

Lauren Kieffer and Snooze Alarm, Rolex Kentucky 2010.

Snooze Alarm living his best life today. Photo via Lauren Kieffer.

Vermiculus:

Baby Vermiculus, circa 2008. Photo via Lauren Kieffer.

Lauren Kieffer and Vermiculus. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Landmark’s Monte Carlo:

Landmark’s Monte Carlo at his very first event in 2010. Photo by Susan Clarke.

Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Anthony Patch:

Laine Ashker and Anthony Patch. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Anthony Patch (“Al”) taking in a retirement sunset. Photo by Lainey Ashker.

Chilli Morning:

Chilli Morning and William Fox-Pitt, photo by Kasey Mueller

Best of 2019 Video Countdown: #12 – The Madden Method of Stall Cleaning

By on Dec 20, 2019 4:15 pm -

Each day between now and the New Year we’re counting down the top 15 most popular videos shared on EN in 2019. The #12 spot goes to “The Madden Method of Stall Cleaning,” which garnered 4,581 views when it was originally posted by on Sept. 26, 2019.

Even all of us here in our eventing corner of the world are familiar with show jumping legend Beezie Madden. Running one of the busiest and most successful show barns in North America requires a high level of attention to detail — and this is a duty that Becky Huestis takes seriously. In the latest “Madden Method” video, Becky takes us behind the scenes at the Madden home facility in Cazenovia, Ny. Here are some top takeaways from behind the scenes at the Madden home base:

  • Water buckets are favored over automatic waterers
  • Feed buckets are fastened at the back corner to give caretakers an additional opportunity to walk into the stall to check on each horse
  • Straw is used in lieu of shavings or sawdust
  • It’s bad luck to put picks and shovels away dirty!
  • Shavings underneath the straw in areas where a horse uses the bathroom in the same spot can help absorb wet spots
  • Using straw helps save on plastic
  • Use your broom to do a quick cobweb and dust sweep after you clean the stall #multitasking
  • “Remember, if it’s not comfortable for you, it’s probably not comfortable for them.” – wise words from Becky

Want more Madden Method videos? Check out the main YouTube page for many more helpful tips!

Thursday Video from Professional’s Choice: Great Meadow Highlight Reel

By on Dec 19, 2019 6:00 pm -

The MARS Equestrian Great Meadow International is a highlight of the summer season. Taking place in the picturesque Plains, Virginia, eventers of the top caliber come out to compete, often in front of the panel of selectors for the current championship cycle. We loved this highlight reel looking back on #GMI2019 and are already looking forward to the 2020 running, to be held August 20-23.

ERA of NA Announces 2019 Award Recipients

By on Dec 16, 2019 3:30 pm -

Sally Robertson and Vermiculus. Photo by JJ Sillman.

After fielding nominations for a variety of year-end recognition awards, the Eventing Riders Association of North America has announced recipients across all categories of awards. Please join us in congratulating the following award winners on their contributions and accomplishments within the eventing community, and many thanks to ERA of NA for providing special recognition opportunities for our sport.

Sally Robertson, head groom to Lauren Kieffer, is the winner of the 2019 Liz Cochran Memorial Groom’s Award recognizes an outstanding groom who has had a large influence on their rider’s career and the health and well-being of the horses under their care. Nominees should epitomize the example set forth by Liz Cochran in setting the standard for a professional groom. The winner receives a $5,000 grant.

“Sally has been a benefit to so many top riders’ programs and deserves the recognition of the hard work and dedication of her life to this sport, and the most important thing, the horses,” Lauren Kieffer said in an ERA press release.

Anita Antenucci takes home this year’s As You Like It Owner’s Award, which is awarded to an outstanding owner who has had a large influence on a rider’s career. Additionally, nominees will also be recognized for having made an exceptional contribution to the sport of eventing. Anita is recognized for her contributions to the sport of eventing and her support of Jan Byyny, Sharon White, and Nina Fout. As a part of this award, Anita will have the ability to select an event to receive a $5,000 donation from Sara Kozumplik Murphy and her longtime and supporter, Edy Ramieka.

Emily Holmes  is the recipient of the Seema Sonnad Above & Beyond Event Personnel Award, offered to an event organizer, secretary, volunteer or other staff members who throughout the year went “above and beyond.” Nominees will have carried out their work in a manner that notably improved the experience for those attending the event as competitors, owners, grooms, sponsors, or spectators.

Jon Holling summed up Emily’s dedication to the sport: ““Emily Holmes is the example of what an event organizer should be. She consistently goes out of her way to make certain that every competitor, both human and equine, has every opportunity to compete at their best. From footing to course presentation no stone is left unturned. I can’t say thank you enough to Emily for being a true competitor’s organizer.”

Last but certainly not least, Amanda Chance receives the Amateur Impact Award. This award recognizes an Adult Amateur that embodies dedication to the sport of eventing, outstanding sportsmanship and has made a direct impact on eventing in North America. The recipient of Amateur Impact Award is an individual that is highly respected by their peers, has demonstrated leadership within the sport and seeks to see eventing continue to grow and flourish. Amanda was nominated for her ongoing commitment to both improving and sustaining the sport through the support of U.S. breeding programs.

[ERA of NA Honors 2019 Year End Award Recipients]

AEC to Remain at Kentucky Horse Park in 2021, Negotiations Underway for 2022 Venue

By on Dec 16, 2019 9:00 am -

Julia Spatt & 501 Macintosh, winner of the Bates Preliminary Rider division. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Big news, EN! After the vocal support of the membership population of the USEA and further considerations, the American Eventing Championships will extend its term at the Kentucky Horse Park for 2021. The current contract in place for the Horse Park and the AEC runs through 2020 with the option to add a third year.

Rebecca Farm in the Flathead Valley. Photo by Chesna Klimek.

The 2020 dates for the American Eventing Championships are August 30 – September 5 [Editor’s Note: the dates originally reported in this article have been updated to reflect a correction made on January 15, 2020 by the USEA). Meanwhile, the USEA Board of Governors has selected Rebecca Farm as the nominee venue for 2022, meaning contract negotiations can begin. Currently host to one USEA and FEI event each year, the Kalispell, Montana destination venue has long been tossed around as an option for the Championships. The proposed date for the 2022 AEC is August 31-September 4, 2022 and this event would be run in addition to their flagship July event.

So, who’s got Kentucky on their calendar for the next two years? Would you make the trip to Montana for the 2022 AEC? Go Eventing!

Thursday Video from Professional’s Choice: FEI Asian Championship Highlight Reel

By on Dec 12, 2019 7:00 pm -

Highlights – Eventing

As our series of highlights continues, lets take a look at how multiple medal winner Arinadtha Chavatanont found herself leading after cross country in the Eventing discipline at the FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2019 ⏱️🐴

Posted by FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2019 on Friday, December 6, 2019

Team Thailand took home the top honors at the inaugural FEI Asian Championships held in Pattaya, Thailand last weekend. Anchored by Arinadtha Chavatanont and Tzar of Her Dreams, the Thai team was able to hang on to the team gold medal after a glorious weekend on home turf.

Arinadtha also earned the individual eventing gold medal in addition to competing on the dressage side of these Championships, earning individual bronze in the Freestyle. Check out the highlights from Arinadtha’s busy weekend in the cross country recap above. Go eventing!

Wednesday News & Notes

By on Dec 11, 2019 12:01 am -

Relatable, honestly. If you missed Maggie Deatrick’s thoughtful breakdown of her life as a self-proclaimed ‘9-to-5 amateur’ last week, it’s definitely worth a look back. Many of us can relate to that hustle and grind lifestyle! As we enjoy some downtime in preparation for the upcoming new season, don’t forget to take a moment to worry just a little less and appreciate this sport we call home. Here’s to productive winters for us all!

National Holiday: National App Day

Weekend Preview: Don’t miss the USEA Annual Meeting & Convention, happening Friday through Sunday in Boston, Massachusetts. For those who are unable to attend, don’t forget to tune in to the live stream that is generously being offered once again. [Website][Live Stream]

News & Notes:

A productive thought while riding would be “I should focus on this canter depart during my test to set myself up for the 20-meter circle,” while a destructive thought might be “I’m worried my horse will spook at the flower box during my canter depart.” Learn about why riders need to be able to manage their productive and destructive thoughts in Daniel Stewart’s Tip of the Month. [USEA]

Two years ago, Holly Payne Caravella wasn’t sure if her veteran five-star horse, Never Outfoxed, would compete again. Read the incredible story of Holly’s “horse of a lifetime” and his return to competition from the brink of disaster. [Chronicle of the Horse]

Sure, it’s been done multiple times now. But should successfully cloned horses be able to compete? Some may be more curious about this controversial option, as the going rate is said to have dropped considerably in price. [Robb Report]

Wednesday Social Media:

Enjoy some incredible shots from Libby Law as she reflects on one of her favorite events each season, Mondial du Lion:

Re-Edit FABULOUSNESS from one of my favourite events – Mondial du Lion (FRA) – where the STARS of the future simply take…

Posted by Libby Law Photography – NZL on Monday, December 9, 2019

Featured Video:

FEI Releases New Dressage Tests for 2020

By on Dec 10, 2019 3:00 pm -

Oliver Townend and BALLAGHMOR CLASS during the dressage phase, Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials, Gloucestershire, 2019

Just in time to start practicing for the upcoming season, the FEI has released updated dressage tests for all international levels for 2020. These new tests will replace the versions released in 2017.

View the 2020 FEI dressage tests here.

You may recall that the FEI elected to replace the “Overall Impression” mark with a “Harmony” mark for the new tests. This new mark will be weighted as a double coefficient.

Looking to the CCI5* tests, the CCI5*A test will reintroduce the counter canter movement that was removed from the 2017 version. While in the 2017 version of the A test had riders executing flying changes immediately following their short diagonals in medium canter, the 2020 A test will ask riders to ride a counter canter through the corner before doing a flying change at A. The extended canter in the 5*A test will also now be followed by counter canter rather than an immediate flying change.

For riders competing at the other FEI levels, you’ll notice several distinct changes in each test. It’s the off-season, so that means plenty of time for studying up. If you’re attending (or watching the live stream of) the upcoming USEA Annual Meeting & Convention this weekend, Marilyn Payne will be hosting a seminar to break down these new tests. “The New FEI Tests Demystified” will be held on Friday, December 13 from 10 am – 11 am EST. This session will also be a part of the Members Only live stream, which can be accessed by current USEA members here.

Learn from the Best: Entries Now Open for Galway Downs’ Annual Fundraiser Clinic

By on Dec 6, 2019 3:00 pm -

Photo courtesy of Galway Downs

Galway Downs has been a main staple on any West Coast eventer’s calendar for decades. The Temecula, California venue hosts events ranging from Starter through the CCI4*-L levels, as well as competitions for other disciplines, throughout each year. In order to sustain the ongoing improvements at Galway Downs, an annual fundraiser has been run for the last two decades to raise money to support the upcoming season. Entries for this year’s fundraiser clinic, happening Jan. 18-19, are now open.

The Galway Downs Fundraiser Clinic is a fantastic opportunity for riders of all levels to come and learn from a variety of trainers. Coaches donate their time for the weekend clinic, and riders are given the option to sign up for lessons with the clinician of their choosing. This year, Ian Stark will return as a featured clinician, offering private lessons throughout the weekend.

“(We have enjoyed) 21 years of support from the base of trainers and competitors that helped to make our events happen,” Galway Downs and Del Mar Eventing Event Director Robert Kellerhouse said. “We are honored to host this unique educational experience.”

Riders can opt for lessons for riders such as Debbie Rosen, Hawley Bennett-Awad, Jennifer Wooten-Macouzet, Tamie Smith, Olivia Loiacono, and many more for a total fee of $250, which typically includes two lessons (small groups are put together according to level), stabling, and a Saturday night dinner.

Sign-ups for the Galway Downs Fundraiser Clinic can be completed here, and early reservations are recommended to secure your spot. Don’t miss out on an incredible opportunity to learn from some of the best riders in the country and support one of the top Area VI event venues while you’re at it!

Go Eventing.

Thursday Video from Professional’s Choice: Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill Unveils Official Branding

By on Dec 5, 2019 5:32 pm -

The newest addition to the CCI5* roster has unveiled its official branding today with a special video announcement from Fair Hill Organizing Committee CEO Jeff Newman. The logo for the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill features an homage to the state colors of Maryland, and a new website has also been launched in preparation for the inaugural running of the event in 2020.

The Maryland 5 Star unveils OFFICIAL Event Name, Logo and Website

Jeff Newman, CEO of The Fair Hill Organizing Committee unveils the OFFICIAL Event Name, Logo and Website for the Maryland 5 Star

Posted by Maryland 5 Star on Thursday, December 5, 2019

The Maryland 5 Star will run from October 15-18, 2020 at the newly redesigned Fair Hill Special Events Zone, construction on which began in June of this year. It’s been a collaborative effort by many organizations to secure capital and support for the event, and the inception of the newest five-star event is a true meeting of the minds and joint effort between the equestrian world and the state of Maryland.

Will you be joining us in Maryland next fall?

Maryland 5 Star: [Website] [Facebook] [Twitter] [Instagram]

Volunteer Nation: The Final Recognized Event of 2019 Needs Your Help

By on Dec 5, 2019 1:00 pm -

Have you ever been a first-fence jump judge? Photo by Holly Covey.

Save a few schooling events that will need volunteers in the coming weeks, we’re heading into the final weekend of USEA recognized eventing for the 2019 season. Sporting Days Farm in Aiken, South Carolina will host its final horse trials of the season this weekend, and two schooling events are also in need of volunteer help.

As we head into the official off-season, we’ll be bringing you advice on volunteering in this post each week. Thanks to opportunities such as the Volunteer Incentive Program, volunteering comes with several perks on top of the satisfaction that comes from knowing you’ve played a role in running a successful event. For anyone looking to get some more volunteering hours under their belt next season, stay tuned for advice from volunteer coordinators on how you can best support your local events.

Go volunteering, and go eventing!

Event: Sporting Days Farm Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday December 6 through Saturday December 7
Address: 3549 Charleston Hwy, Aiken, SC, 29801
Positions available: Event Prep – General, XC Finish Timer, Dressage Bit Check, Dressage Scribe, SJ Timer

Event: Pine Hill GHCTA Schooling Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Saturday December 7 – Sunday December 8
Address: 1720 Hwy 159 East, Bellville, TX, 77418
Positions available: XC Jump Judge, XC On Course Timer, XC Pinney Collector, XC Score Runner, General Announcer, Scoring Steward, Secretary, SJ Timer

Event: 2019 MDHT Donation Derby
Date(s) volunteers needed: Saturday December 7 – Sunday December 8
Address: 1235 Park Mills Road, Adamstown, MD, 21710
Positions available: Score Runner, SJ In-gate, SJ Steward

 

Remember to log those volunteer hours with the USEA Volunteer Incentive Program (VIP), as there are plenty of perks and awards up for grabs at the end of each season. You can check out the Volunteer leaderboard here and find more volunteering opportunities on EventingVolunteers.com.

Get Your Learn On: USEA to Provide Live Stream Coverage of Annual Meeting & Convention

By on Dec 2, 2019 3:00 pm -

If you’ve been lamenting about missing the USEA Annual Meeting & Convention this month in Boston, Mass., never fear! The USEA has announced that it will be providing two live streams, one open stream and one designated for USEA members only, throughout the Convention.

The “Member Feed” stream will be available for USEA members who have joined or renewed their memberships for 2020, while the “Open Stream” will be free for all to view.

The content available to stream on the Open feed is rich in educational opportunities, and we highly encourage all eventers to check out the broadcast schedule and mark down the sessions that pique your interest. Some of the seminars that will be streamed for free include “Having and Instilling Rider Responsibility”, a Maryland Five-Star Update forum, “Feeding Strategies and Nutrition for the Sport Horse”, and an Amateur and Adult Rider Open Form, among many others. Broadcasting will be available on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, December 12-14.

For USEA members, broadcast viewing opportunities include Horsemanship seminars with Max Corcoran and a variety of equine veterinarians and physio experts, a Safety Committee Open Forum, and a seminar on Rider Sponsorships and Building Your Brand. Other thought provoking seminar topics include one session on the longevity of event horse careers led by Matt Brown, Max Corcoran, Erik Duvander, and Sam Watson as well as a session on where the sport is heading featuring Dan Michaels, Jon Holling, and Tremaine Cooper.

These are just a small sampling of the educational seminars that will be available via live stream — for the full schedule, click here.

The USEA Annual Meeting & Convention kicks off on Thursday December 12 and concludes on Sunday December 15 at the Sheraton Boston Hotel. The USEA is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, and a special keynote session will be presented looking at the past, present, and future of the sport with a panel of keynote speakers including Jim Wofford, Max Corcoran, and Woodge Fulton. For more information on the Annual Meeting, visit the website here.

Inaugural FEI Asian Eventing Championships Set to Kick Off in Thailand

By on Dec 2, 2019 1:00 pm -

Asian Championships riders during ring familiarization. Photo via the FEI Asian Championships Facebook page.

For the first time, over 15 countries will be represented in the inaugural FEI Asian Championships, happening this week in Pattaya, Thailand. Riders competing in dressage, eventing, and show jumping will compete for seven medals throughout the course of the week, and we’ll see nine eventing riders come down centerline tomorrow in a CCI2*-L competition. The FEI is providing a live stream for the dressage and show jumping portions of the eventing competition, both of which can be found on their YouTube channel here (Thailand is 12 hours ahead of Eastern time).

The stage is set!

The stage is set and the final touches have been applied! We are just one day away from welcoming the world to FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2019https://www.acpattaya2019.com/program#FirstChampionOfAsia#MakingHistory#MakingHistoryTogether#AsiansforAsians#FEIAsianChampionships2019 #ACPattaya2019#Equestrian #Dressage #Jumping #Eventing

Posted by FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2019 on Friday, November 29, 2019

A mixed bag of riders will contest the CCI2*-L eventing championship, including a handful of riders who base in Europe and the United Kingdom. For Thai rider Preecha Khunjan, competing in the Asian Championships will be a home turf contest — Preecha mostly competes in Thailand at the Pattaya venue and also finished in the top 15 in last year’s Asian Games with the 12-year-old gelding, Snowrunner. Iranian rider Toufan Torabi has won at this venue previously.

Another Pattaya winner, Hong Kong’s Annie Ho, makes the trek from her UK base after a strong lead-up with the Irish Sport Horse Lost in Translation. This pair came third in the CCI2*-L at Ballendenisk in September. Another experienced rider, Hong Kong’s Thomas Heffernan Ho, has also made the trip from his UK base to contest the Championship with Jockey Club Charlene OLD.

The venue for the Championships, Thai Polo & Equestrian Club, is stunning and well-prepared to host the 100+ horses and riders that will be competing all week long.

A stunning venue! Photo via the FEI Asian Championships Facebook page.

Take a look at the beautiful cross country course, designed by Peter Fell, here:

Cross Country Course Walk today at the FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2019!🤩Eventing Dressage competition starts…

Posted by FEI Asian Championships Pattaya 2019 on Monday, December 2, 2019

Stay tuned for more updates from the competition right here on EN. Go eventing!

#ACPattaya2019: [Website] [Schedule] [Ride Times] [Live Stream]