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Fairy Tale Finale for Will Coleman & Off The Record in Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S

By on Apr 27, 2025 6:06 pm -

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

Will Coleman never runs out of favorable words to describe his longtime partner Off The Record, and today was no exception as he sang “Timmy’s” praises after a banner weekend that ended with victory in the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S.

Timmy was sourced through Richard Sheane and landed with Will as a 4-year-old. Though somewhat difficult as a youngster, the now 16-year-old Irish Sport Horse blossomed into one of the most consistent campaigners in the sport. He’s delivered some of Will’s most memorable career achievements, including becoming the first-ever U.S. winners at the prestigious CHIO Aachen CCIO4*-S (Germany) and helping the U.S. end a twenty-year dry spell and claim team silver at the FEI World Championships at Pratoni (Italy) as the highest-placed American pair. But there’s no doubt that grabbing a 35th career FEI win in front of thousands of spectators just hits differently.

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

“It was humble beginnings. He was a pretty hardy young horse, but he always displayed a real knack for cross country — and that kept us going with him. He’s not the most natural in the other phases, but he has an incredible work ethic,” Will said. “As our relationship improved and we found more harmony in our communication, he really started to blossom. It’s been a joy to have him. He has his own style, but his character is what makes him a good horse. He’s a genuine guy, and he honestly has a conscience about trying to do the right thing — especially in competition. That’s a wonderful quality.”

The round finished as a fairytale, but it wasn’t the perfect story at the start. Timmy kicked off with some tension that had him cross-cantering to the first few fences. The packed grandstands sucked in a collective gasp when they knocked the front rail of the Mars two-stride combination, but fortunately for Will, that was their only fault, and they finished on a score of 33.

“I did hear the rail fall and then I said, ‘Oh, now I really have to think about the clock.’ So I hustled a little bit. I knew Timmy was going to try his best. He actually felt like he went in there and just tightened up on me a little bit — missing his leads. And it just makes it hard to ride as smooth a round as you’d envision. But the truth is that the horse has gotten this far in the sport with grit, determination, and try, and he showed all those things to come home with us out in front. I’m just happy for the horse — that I didn’t let him down.”

Phillip Dutton and Possante. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Possante, a 12-year-old KWPN (Namelus — Wedelien, by Otangelo) owned by the Possante Group, takes the next step on the podium in second place with Phillip Dutton.

Phillip had the advantage of riding the course once before with his overnight third-placed Denim and used that insider information to his advantage, jumping clear only one second above the optimum time with Possante to complete the weekend on a score of 33.9.

Phillip Dutton and Denim. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

His first horse, Denim, the 10-year-old Holsteiner (Dinken — Celia II, by Ibisco) owned by Ann Jones, Ann Lapides, Caroline Moran, and Neill Sites, was slightly slower than his stablemate, but otherwise clear. He picked up 1.6 time penalties to drop into fourth place.

“We all earmarked this event early on in the year. This was the one we were all aiming for. It’s kind of a relief to be sitting up here with a good result,” he said.

“It’s a bit ironic — my best jumper is Denim, and he’s the one that moved back down because I was too slow on the cross country. But I couldn’t be more pleased with Possante. Show jumping hasn’t always been easy for us. I have to thank Lauren Hough, who’s been helping me through thick and thin. As you know, improvement isn’t always linear. You have ups and downs.”

The Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S is one of 19 qualifying events on the US Equestrian Open series, of which Phillip is currently the highest-ranked rider, and these second- and fourth-place finishes boost his current score to 215. Competitors earn points at each qualifier, and whoever earns the most points throughout the season will be awarded a $25,000 check.

Jessica Phoenix and Freedom GS. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Just like they did at the Paris Olympics, Jessica Phoenix and Freedom GS delivered a double clear and moved onto the podium in third place. The leggy bay showed just how world-class he is this weekend, migrating up the leaderboard 11 points from start to finish.

After last year’s Olympics, the Canadian eventer knew she wanted to strengthen Charlotte Schickedanz’s 13-year-old Oldenburg/Trakehner (Humble GS — Friedel GS) in the first phase in order to be more competitive, so she looked to Ashley Holzer for help.

“It’s definitely been an amazing spring season for us. Coming away from the Paris Olympics, we really felt we needed to hit the dressage phase harder. We needed the horses stronger — and me stronger, too.
Getting more confident with my body type and figuring out what worked best for my position was the focus. After Paris, I started training with Ashley Holzer, and she has been a real game-changer for me. She understands exactly how to teach me and explain where I need to be to help the horses the most,” Jessica said.

“It really feels like the communication with all my horses has gotten so much better. They’ve always been strong in the show jumping phase, but now the dressage is coming along too. To see the fruits of all the hard work we put in over the winter coming out this spring — seeing the horses so confident and happy — it’s just pure joy.”

Allison Springer and No May Moon. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The can-do Connemara cross No May Moon earned fifth place with Allison Springer. Owner Nancy Winter, who was short-listed for the 1984 Olympics on a Connemara, bred “Mayzie” (as well as her full sibling, 3* eventer Crystal Crescent Moon) by the British dressage horse Catherston Dazzler and out of Ebony Moon (by Mystic Replica).

Mayzie, who won the Bromont CCI4*-L last season, was gritty and quick to complete double clear on a final result of 40.4.

Mia Farley and Invictus. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Mia Farley piloted Karen O’Connor’s owned and bred Invictus, a 9-year-old Holsteiner/Thoroughbred (Diarado — Sunset Paradise, by Unbridled Jet), to double clear success, finishing her weekend on a score of 42.9.

James Alliston and Nemesis. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

After starting the weekend in 26th place, James Alliston claimed seventh with Alliston Equestrian’s Nemesis, an 11-year-old Canadian Warmblood (Novalis 46 — Maesy).

2023 Kentucky 5* winner Tamie Smith is eighth with the 10-year-old KWPN Kynan (Envoy — Daniel, by Zirocco Blue). Eleventh after the first phase, Kynan added only 17.2 time penalties on Saturday’s cross country, but none today to finish on a score of 46.

Ema Klugman and Chiraz. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Australia’s Ema Klugman and the striking grey Chiraz finished ninth. The 12-year-old Holsteiner (Cayado 3 — Asquetta, by Casall), who has previously been campaigned by both Boyd Martin and Nicola Wilson, lowered one rail and added two seconds to the clock to remain in the top ten.

A clear round with 2.8 time penalties elevated Jan Byyny and Beautiful Storm, a 10-year-old Thoroughbred (Get Stormy — So Beautiful, by Arch) owned by Jan, Jo Ellen, and Richard Byyny, from 16th after cross country to take the final top ten spot at competition end.

After over a dozen riders struggled against the clock, it was Elisa Wallace and Lissavorra Quality who were the first to prove that it was possible to finish this phase double clear. They finished 15th on a score of 53.8.

“She’s really green, but she feeds off of that environment in there. She can be a tough mare because she’s Irish and she’s got her own opinion, but she helps you out when you need it. I tried to stay out of her way and she helped me out when I needed it,” Elisa said.

This four-star has once again proven to be one of the toughest in the country, if not the world, and gives horses and riders the opportunity to test their mettle in a world-class atmosphere. Congratulations to all competitors for a job well done.

Defender Kentucky: [Website] [Tickets] [Official Schedule] [Entries & Ride Times] [Scoring] [XC Maps] [ClipMyHorse Live Stream] [USEF Network on ClipMyHorse Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage] [EN’s Form Guide]

EN’s coverage of Defender Kentucky is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

Off The Record Delivers for Will Coleman in Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S Cross Country

By on Apr 26, 2025 7:05 pm -

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

Where some wore the challenges of Derek di Grazia’s cross country course in their knitted brows and gritted teeth, dressage leader Off The Record barely had a bead of sweat to wipe from his forehead as he and Will Coleman maintained control of the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S.

“Timmy” is a stalwart in Will’s program. At 16, the Off The Record Syndicate’s Irish Sport Horse has been at this level for six seasons, and like a fine wine, he seems to get better with age. After earning the lowest international dressage score of his career on Friday, Timmy sailed around the Kentucky Horse Park cross-country like it was a training exercise—straight as a pin through the Mighty Moguls and steady as the rain through the Park Question coffin.

“He was great… I’m just tickled. When you have an older horse, and they come out and they just feel that inspired to go out and do it–it’s just a really rewarding feeling, and it makes you just feel very satisfied. He gave me everything he could today, and he just enjoyed every second. I have nothing but admiration for that horse and everything he stands for,” Will said.

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

Although they were 18 seconds over the clock, these two remained the fastest pair of the day, picking up 7.2 time penalties for a two-day score of 29.

“When I walked the course, I wasn’t sure anybody was going to be able to get the time. It was a fantastic track — extremely challenging — but the roping and the way the questions were strung together just made it very difficult for you to maintain the necessary average speed to get the time allowed. I don’t think that necessarily takes away from the competition in any way, shape or form, but it just wasn’t surprising to me at all that nobody really got close,” he said. 

Looking ahead to the final phase, this combination is certainly capable of a clear show jumping test. But just for a little extra wiggle room, Will has given himself one rail in hand–just in case.

Will withdrew his second ride, Very Dignified, who was eighth after dressage. He explained that since the partnership is so new, he didn’t think the two of them as a pair were quite ready to face the challenge of the 4.5* cross country here in Kentucky, considering they’ve so far only done two Intermediate horse trials.

Phillip Dutton and Possante. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Phillip Dutton dug deep with both his horses to keep ahold of second place with Possante and third place with Denim.

First up was Ann Jones, Ann Lapides, Caroline Moran and Neill Sites’ Denim. The 10-year-old Holsteiner (Dinken – Celia II,by Ibisco) leaned into Phillip’s experience early on in the course, especially through the four-part coffin, but he kept showing up the whole way around, adding 10.4 time penalties to remain in second place on score of 33.5.

Taking insights from his ride with Denim, Phillip delivered a polished presentation with Possante, a 12-year-old KWPN (Namelus — Wedelien, by Otangelo) owned by the Possante Group. This pair is third after 11.6 time penalties on 37.2 points.

Phillip Dutton and Denim. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“It was a lot of hard work, but certainly rewarding. We knew it was a strong track, and then the conditions, the crowd, everything—it takes a little bit of practice to go quick at this level. I was trying to have a crack at it, but I didn’t go quite as fast as I was hoping. Still, the horses tried hard, and I think we’ll come out of it better for what we did today,” he said. 

As for the future with these two horses, Phillip said, “I’m always aiming for something bigger. This is a good experience and probably the strongest course they’ve jumped, so I haven’t got any immediate plans, but I think they are ready to find a five-star.”

Jessica Phoenix and Freedom GS. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Canada’s Jessica Phoenix had the third-fastest round of the day with her Paris Olympics partner Freedom GS. Coming home 20 seconds above the optimum time, Charlotte Schickendaz’s 13-year-old leapt from 14th to sit just beside the podium in fourth place.

“Freedom GS was just pure class out there today,” Jessica said. “She’s just such a fun horse to ride cross-country — she loves to gallop, and she’s so attentive to the questions. She looks for the flags. But exactly like Will was saying, the way they set the course, you knew the time was going to be really tough to make.”

Allison Springer and No May Moon. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Another major climber, Allison Springer, saw her ride, No May Moon, go from 27th to 5th after laying down the second-fastest ride of the day.

The clever 11-year-old Connemara cross (Catherston Dazzler — Ebony Moon, by Mystic Replica), who was bred by her owner, Nancy Winter, zipped around cleanly with 7.6 time penalties added for a current score of 40.4. Allison has carefully produced this mare to the top of the sport, honoring that she’s been a late bloomer, and now that former careful persistence has allowed Allison the opportunity to put the pressure on to let this diamond shine.

“I’m super grateful for the rain yesterday because the ground was not hard, but it wasn’t super fast either. I think some horses got tired, but both of mine galloped great. They really were super,” Allison said. “Maizey was just her unbelievable self. The course didn’t ride quite according to plan, and I think that was partly the footing, but she’s just such a clever pony. She loves this job so much, and she was still full of gas at the end… It feels like such a privilege to be galloping around this beautiful place at Kentucky.”

Despite the 22-rung climb, Allison and “Maizey” still aren’t the day’s biggest movers; that recognition was earned by Australia’s Ema Klugman and Chiraz, who launched 23 spots to ultimately land in a tie for seventh place.

Mia Farley and Invictus. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Mia Farley is sixth with Invictus, a 9-year-old Holsteiner/Thoroughbred (Diarado — Sunset Paradise, by Unbridled Jet) who is bred and owned by Karen O’Connor. Mia shares a lengthy partnership with “Sammy,” who she backed herself and has been riding since he was four. Today, 13.6 time penalties moved them from 12th to sixth on a score of 42.9.

“It was so hard — but it felt so good. Derek really set up the questions to challenge the horses, but he also gave us opportunities to put them in the right place and have them fully understand. It was nice to feel like I was able to do that in most places. There were a few times where Sammy saved my butt, but it was really great to feel like we could hunt the flags at the end of the course,” she said.

“In the past, I’ve actually gotten into a little bit of trouble toward the end of courses with him. He’s big and young, so I’ve sometimes lost a bit of rideability at the end. But it was really cool to feel, at this course, because he’s so talented, he actually had to work pretty hard — and by the end, he was like, ‘Hey, what do you want?’ And I was like, ‘Yes! It’s there!'”

In his first trip to the Kentucky Three-Day Event, Alex O’Neal had his work cut out for him with the green Redtail Penumbra (Kevin Z — True Dynamite, by Yes It’s True). This challenge was only the third start at the four-star level for the 13-year-old DSP, who is a homebred of Alex and his wife, Ellie O’Neal, but Alex thoughtfully showed her the way, giving the mare both an educational and proficient run. Their 11.6 time penalties have them in a shared tie with Ema and Chiraz on a score of 43.4.

The Chiraz Syndicate and Ema Klugman’s Chiraz, a 12-year-old Holsteiner (Cayado 3 — Asquetta, by Casall), who has previously been campaigned by both Boyd Martin and Nicola Wilson, showed off his enthusiastic demeanor and mammoth step to add 9.6 time penalties.

California-based James Alliston moved Alliston Equestrian’s Nemesis, an 11-year-old Canadian Warmblood (Novalis 46 — Maesy), into the top ten on a score of 45.1 with 11.6 time penalties added.

Canada’s Dana Cooke actually dropped one placing after dressage, from 9th to 10th, after picking up 16.8 time penalties with FE Quattro.

The optimum time was every competitor’s biggest nemesis, with no combinations managing to beat the clock. Of the jumping efforts, the Mighty Moguls were the most influential, coming early in the course with a massive brush table to corner at Fence 4AB. Eight riders picked up 20 penalties here, with the second most influential combination being the coffin (Park Question) at 6ABCDE.

Of the 48 starters, 38 finished the course. More than half of those who completed did so without jumping penalties, leaving time penalties to deliver most of the placings.

Though this is not a long format, the four-star competitors will present their horses a second time for the Ground Jury Sunday morning, beginning at 7:30 a.m., followed by the show jumping finale at 10:45 a.m.

Stay tuned for more from Kentucky, including a complete deep dive into the mammoth five-star cross-country report.

Defender Kentucky: [Website] [Tickets] [Official Schedule] [Entries & Ride Times] [Scoring] [XC Maps] [ClipMyHorse Live Stream] [USEF Network on ClipMyHorse Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage] [EN’s Form Guide]

EN’s coverage of Defender Kentucky is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

Will Coleman Claims Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S Dressage Lead with Off The Record

By on Apr 25, 2025 2:03 pm -

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

In a sport of peaks and valleys, there’s no denying the feeling of elation you’d get from a personal best on a major stage. Will Coleman is basking in that light Friday in the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S with his longtime partner Off The Record.

“What can you say about him? He’s [got] the heart of a lion. He just keeps trying to get better, even though he’s a year older. I just can’t say enough about him,” he said. 

Riding for the Off The Record Syndicate, Will and “Timmy” rode an hour later than anticipated due to a weather delay, but despite that and the deluge, the 16-year-old Irish Sport Horse rose to the occasion, laying down the best dressage score of his International career on 21.8 points. (His previous PB was 21.9 at Great Meadow in 2020)

Groom Erin Jarboe with Off The Record. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“He was really up this morning. I mean, he hasn’t really been out a whole lot this spring… but he’s an old, experienced horse. He remembers what he’s done here for so many years, and he was really excited this morning. And I actually think the rain kind of helped me,” Will said. 

The first phase isn’t necessarily Timmy’s strength, though he is proficient and professional, so Will focuses on achieving relaxation above all else in warmup.

“I had a lot of great assistance from the Woodhead family—Ian and Amy—these last couple weeks. They’ve helped me a lot in understanding how to try to ride Timmy for those four minutes. We have to have him looking a certain way in the arena, getting him in there feeling confident in his body, and a little softer in his brain and in his frame,” he said.

“[I’m] not really riding for a test outline or a test frame until the horse is really soft and really available and feeling good about himself. And that might only be for a couple of minutes before you go down centerline, but I’m lucky that he’s experienced, and I know he’s going to be on his game in there. We relied on that. [I’m] kind of trying to be a yoga instructor for him—as sort of frustrating as that can feel at times—it worked.”

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

The 2024 season was one that was teed up to be monumental for Will, but ultimately ended up falling short of expectations. After narrowly missing out on the Paris Olympic Games, he opted for Timmy to have a crack at Pau CCI5*-L. Grueling conditions in a foot of mud left the pair settling for self preservation rather than speed, and their 24th place finish was respectable, but not the result he’d hoped for the 16-year-old Irish Sport Horse. Because of that, he opted to ease Timmy into the 2025 season with four-stars rather than go pedal to the medal to get him five-star ready.

“You know, he had a long year last year. It ended up feeling like just a really kind of draining 2024, and Pau was just kind of a mess. It wasn’t at all what we had envisioned when we went over there,” Will said. “He’s 16. I didn’t want to start him back really that early this spring to have him as fit as he would need to be for Kentucky. The five-star level has always been kind of a stretch for him, and I think we wanted to just bring him out, do this 4*-S, maybe see how he feels after doing that—see what he feels like out there tomorrow. Then we can maybe pick and choose something, either like Luhmühlen, or maybe something else later in the year. But we just felt like the time frame was going to be a little quick. It felt like it would have been maybe a little taxing on him. He’s at a point where we don’t really want to tax him. I’ve always wanted to finish feeling like he’s got another run in him—not feeling like, ‘Oh, I wish I hadn’t done that.’”

Phillip Dutton and Possante. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Thursday’s dressage leader Phillip Dutton beat his own leading score, but couldn’t quite catch Will and Timmy. He moved his second ride, the the 12-year-old KWPN Possante into second place. Denim is now third on his score of 25.6.

Riding for the Possante Group, Phillip brought “Impy” to a new personal best not only at the level, but of his International career. His previous career-best was a 23.9 way back at the CCI2*-L level with former rider Emily King of Great Britain.

“I’m pretty pleased with Impy. It’s not the best conditions and there’s a lot of atmosphere in there and he kept listening to the all the way through,” Phillip said.

Phillip decided to enter both Possante and Denim in the four-star rather than the five-star this weekend, but he certainly won’t be bored on Saturday’s cross country.

“It’s bloody tough. Its a big course,” he said. “There’s six-and-a-half minutes and a lot to do in that time, so the time is going to be hard to get as well. I think you’ve got to ride pretty smart and have a plan, but you’ve got to be ready to adjust the plan as your horse is reacting.”

Chris Talley and FE Marco Polo. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Chris Talley takes fourth place with Allison Pratt’s FE Marco Polo. This the 9-year-old Oldenburg’s second four-star, and today they laid down a 26.8–their best International dressage score to date.

“He’s a remarkable horse. He’s quite emotional, but I think he and I are on the same kind of wavelength, so we’ve worked through some of his spooky issues. He’s really come to the horse park, and he felt like he wanted to play–like he knew it was a big deal. He’s been great all week, but my biggest concern was him being in there alone because he can go hero to zero really fast. But he believed me the whole way around. That’s what this sport is about–making a partnership with the horse, and today he rewarded me with that.”

Ariel Grald and Diara. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Ariel Grald moves into striking distance with Annie Eldridge’s adorably floppy-eared mare Diara. The 11-year-old Hanoverian (Diacontinus — Lady Revens, by Colon xx) has been challenging on the flat for Ariel in the last two seasons, posting uncharacteristic scores into the 40s, but today she was the picture of rideability, dancing to an easy 27.3 for third place.

Thursday’s second-placed Molly Duda and Disco Traveler have settled in sixth place (27.7), and Caroline Pamukcu moved from third to seventh with her Paris Olympics partner HSH Blake (27.9). Will Coleman’s Thursday ride, Very Dignified, moved from fourth down into eighth on a score of 28.

Canada’s Dana Cooke claimed ninth place with FE Quatro, an 11-year-old DSP (Quaterstern — Elina, by Coriograph B) owned by the FE Quattro Syndicate, on a score of 28.3. Aiken-based Sarah Kuhn wraps up the top ten aboard Deborah Kuhn’s 13-year-old Belgian Warmblood (Deauville van TL — Ishtar van de Start, by Toulon) Mr. Cash van de Start on a score of 28.4.

You’ll see the entire four-star class come forward for cross country Saturday starting at 9:00 a.m. You can watch it all live on ClipMyHorse or follow along with our live updates on EN.

Defender Kentucky: [Website] [Tickets] [Official Schedule] [Entries & Ride Times] [Scoring] [XC Maps] [ClipMyHorse Live Stream] [USEF Network on ClipMyHorse Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage] [EN’s Form Guide]

EN’s coverage of Defender Kentucky is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

 

Dutton and Denim Take Thursday Dressage Lead of Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S

By on Apr 24, 2025 6:40 pm -

Phillip Dutton and Denim. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Seven-time Olympian Phillip Dutton has prioritized the heavily contested Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S with his two top horses and it’s already paying off with Ann Jones, Ann Lapides, Caroline Moran and Neill Sites’ Denim taking the Thursday dressage lead. 

Anyone who had a keen eye on this class shouldn’t be surprised to see this 10-year-old Holsteiner (Dinken – Celia II,by Ibisco) earn a 25.6 from judges Bea di Grazia (USA) and Andrew Bennie (NZL). It’s a personal best for Denim’s entire FEI career, but it’s only a breath away from their 25.9 earned at Blenheim CCI4*-S last autumn. 

Both Bea at C and Andrew at E were synchronized in their impressions from the test, giving Phillip nearly identical scores of 74.33% and 74.5%, respectively. 

Denim celebrates his dressage lead. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

“Let’s not get too carried away—it’s only day one. There’s a long way to go and strong competition ahead,” Phillip said. “I couldn’t be more proud of Denim. He’s 10 now, relatively experienced, and has been to Boekelo, Blenheim and le Lion, but we still call him ‘the baby’ of the family, but he’s a great competitor.”

This is Demin’s fourth season under Phillip’s tutelage. He was produced through the two-star level by The Netherland’s Merel Blom. “He’s an athlete, but not naturally the strongest horse. He really has to try hard in all three phases, especially the dressage. He doesn’t have the natural strength to carry himself easily, so I have to manage the warm up carefully to keep him supple without overworking him.” 

The Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S is one of 19 qualifying events on the US Equestrian Open series, of which Phillip is currently the highest-ranked rider by a 30-point margin. In addition to chasing that leaderboard, Phillip wants to use this four-star as a preparation on a major stage for “possibly Luhmühlen or Aachen” over the summer. 

Molly Duda and Disco Traveler. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Representing the west coast, 21-year-old Molly Duda staked her claim on second place with her own Disco Traveler. She and the 15-year-old Oldenburg (Donatelli – Cadence) busted into sub-30 territory for the first time at this 4* level with their new personal best of 27.7.

“I’m just so incredibly proud of ‘Disco.’ Flatwork hasn’t always been his strongest phase, but today he really tried his heart out,” Molly said. “He doesn’t have the flashiest talent, but he has the biggest heart, and I’ve always felt safe and confident on him.” 

Molly Duda and Disco Traveler. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Molly and “Disco” moved up to Advanced only last season, but the past year has given them a wealth of information between training with Tamie Smith and being chosen for the USEF European Development Tour. This is their second appearance in the four-star here in Kentucky, and though last year saw an early end after Molly fell on cross country, she’s feeling wholly optimistic this time around. 

“Last year was ambitious. I had only done one four-star before I came here and, honestly, I was a bit overconfident. I ended up in the ditch at the coffin. It was humbling. But Disco bounced back immediately, like nothing ever happened. We went to Europe, had great runs, including a strong finish at Millstreet and a win in our first CCI4*-L. He just keeps getting better, and I’ve learned so much. I feel ready now and I’m excited to have another crack at it,” she said. 

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Paris Olympians Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake made an early bid for the “Little Kentucky” division before being usurped by Thursday’s leaders. “Blake,” who is owned by Mollie Hoff, Sherrie Martin, and Caroline and Deniz Pamukcu, and Caroline were right on the money of what we’d expect from this seasoned pair, posting a 27.9. This is just the second time we’ve seen the 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Tolan R – Doughiska Lass, by Kannan) this season since they completed the Olympic Games last summer. 

“Blake was fabulous today—I couldn’t be prouder. He’s been a bit on the back burner this year, taking it easy after a busy 2023. And with me having a baby, we’ve just been easing back into the spring with an eye on Aachen,” she said. 

In addition to Blake, Caroline also has two entries contesting their first five-star: HSH Double Sixteen and She’s The One. 

Will Coleman and Very Dignified. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The budding partnership of Will Coleman and the 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare Very Dignified (Dignified van’t Zorgvliet – Kateys Gem, by Ricardo) is fourth in their first International appearance together. Owned by Jerome Broussard, Gloria Callen and Elizabeth Lendrum, “Nora” landed in Will’s string this year from Ireland, where she was produced to the Advanced level by Robbie Kearns. They carry 28 points into the cross country phase. 

“She’s a really nice mare. I have high hopes for her, but it’s still early days. We’re just getting to know each other. This whole weekend was about giving her a good experience and building a foundation,” Will said. 

So far this season, these two have tackled two Intermediate horse trials together, so this weekend is a big test in an electric atmosphere for the green partnership. 

“She’s a quality horse with a really good brain – that makes a big difference. But even with experience, it still takes time for a horse to get to know you, your program – and vice versa. It’s challenging, sure, but I’ve enjoyed it. She’s exciting to have in the barn. We’ll need a bit more time, but today was a great start – something we can build on, “Will said. 

Robin Walker was the final rider to earn a sub-30 score from the four-star judges, and he did so for fifth place with Alston Kerr, Roger Schramm and his own SBT Barolo. Their 29.8 is a personal best for the pair at the level. 

Lexington local Allie Knowles is sixth with Katherine O’Brien’s Morswood. The 17-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Ricardo – Princess In Arms, by Present Arms) sits on a 30.3. Buck Davidson and Cooley Candyman are 7th on a score of 31.3, and Hannah Sue Hollberg is 8th on a 31.7 with Carsonstown. On a score of 32.8, Allison Springer and Olivia Dutton tied for ninth with No May Moon and Sea of Clouds, respectively. 

There’s still more heavy hitters to come in Friday morning’s dressage session, so this leaderboard could take a different shape before we look toward Saturday’s mammoth cross country challenge. Dressage continues at 8:00 a.m. 

Defender Kentucky: [Website] [Tickets] [Official Schedule] [Entries & Ride Times] [Scoring] [XC Maps] [ClipMyHorse Live Stream] [USEF Network on ClipMyHorse Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage] [EN’s Form Guide]

EN’s coverage of Defender Kentucky is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

Hard Work, Determination and (Imperio) Magic Turn Mary Bess Davis’ 5* Dreams into Reality

By on Apr 15, 2025 9:00 am -

Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Mary Bess Davis is one of several riders making a splashing CCI5* debut at the Defender Kentucky Three Day Event this month. She’ll be partnered with her own 11-year-old Anglo European gelding Imperio Magic to take on their biggest challenge yet.

Considering Mary Bess’ early life, it’s no surprise she’s ended up a professional rider. Daughter of FEI veterinarian Dr. Mike Sigman, she grew up on the family farm in Covington, GA, where she was around horses since she was a little girl.

“I’ve been around horses my whole life, but I really started learning about all the disciplines through Pony Club,” she said. “I started doing Pony Club and did a little bit of three day eventing, a little hunting, and then actually started vaulting. I stopped eventing after I was 14, and didn’t really ride that much after that—I just vaulted competitively until I was 19. My brother had evented growing up. That’s part of why I initially chose vaulting—I didn’t want to do what my brother did.”

She put horses on the back burner when she went to college at the University of Georgia, but got pulled back in by those family ties.

“My dad actually got me back into eventing because when my brother went to college, he quit riding. My dad started riding his horses to keep them in shape, and then he started eventing when he was 52,” she said. “My dad was like, ‘Hey, you should come go eventing with me,’ so we got a lower level horse and I just did it for fun with my dad.”

Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic at Boekelo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“My mom and dad bought me a Thoroughbred at the Novice level, and that little horse took me from Novice to Advanced,” she continued. “By that point, I think I was a senior in college. I started running a barn and just took off from there. I’ve never looked back. It all just kind of fell into place the way it was supposed to.”

Mary Bess’ business continued to boom, and she eventually relocated her program to the family farm in Covington. By 2008, Mary Bess had brought three other horses to the Advanced level and had been named to the USEF Developing Rider List. While she continued training horses and teaching students, the next decade of her life was focused on her family as she welcomed two sons with husband Mark Davis. Once the boys were school age, Mary Bess’ competitive aspirations reignited. She turned to her former coach, Canadian Mike Winter, for a horse shopping trip with the goal of bringing home two horses: one to sell and one to keep.

Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

“Mike found McColl and said, ‘This is the horse.’ I hadn’t even sat on him, but Mike knew me and my type really well. He told me, ‘Just don’t sell him too quickly—I think this is the one you’re going to want to keep,’ she recalled. “We laugh about that now because after I saw him jump, I pretty much knew he wasn’t going anywhere. My husband is very understanding, so I actually kept both horses I bought—one for myself and McColl, who was meant to be an investment. The other went up to the three-star level, and McColl just kept going.”

It was that trip that gave the striking bay gelding his barn name, McColl, after the name of a pub where over a few drinks, Mary Bess was able to convince her husband to buy both horses. Once stateside, McColl (Cassander C x Khadijah Des Layettes, by Banboula du Thot) and Mary Bess clicked together like a puzzle, and he quickly brought her back to the four-star level after a ten hear hiatus.

“He’s always understood things—if I present it in a way he can understand, he’s in. He’s so brave. It was just easy. We had to be careful not to move him up too quickly. I got him when he was just turning six, and then he went to the Fair Hill three-star as a seven-year-old—he hadn’t done anything before that. So he basically went from Beginner Novice to the three-star at Fair Hill in a year. That just shows how incredible he is—how smart, how much he gets it, and how much he loves it. He kind of plays with it—he really thinks it’s fun,” she said.

McColl with his groom Courtney Lucas. Photo courtesy of Mary Bess Davis.

While he can be quirky in the warmup, in the barn he’s a complete “pet,” especially to Mary Bess’ groom Courtney Lucas.

“He’s so precious. He is a pet, through and through. He just loves everyone. He wants to be in everybody’s pocket in the barn—he’s just a love. So sensible, sweet, and kind,” she said. “[McColl and Courtney] are inseparable. I can’t say enough. She stares at him all the time, spends so much time making sure he’s just right. I’m very, very thankful. She loves him just as much as I do, which is so special. I always know she loves him just as much as I do, so it’s easy to have her take care of him.”

For most upper level competitors, getting to the five-star level is the ultimate goal, but Mary Bess is exceedingly realistic, so she turned her attention away from her highest aspirations, and instead focused on the experience of bringing along a talented horse. McColl blossomed in the sport with this mindset, quickly bounding from his first event to the Advanced level in just two years. In the last two seasons they’ve picked up two top-ten CCI4*-L finishes stateside and were 19th in their overseas debut at Military Boekelo CCIO4*-L last autumn.

“You know, getting a five-star horse is so hard—finding one, especially without a lot of funding. The goal was just to go back to the upper levels, be out there, enjoy it, have goals to work toward, and be competitive. That was pretty much it. This is just the icing on the cake. I’ve had three other horses qualified for [Kentucky] but I never got to go. That was never really the goal, even though it was always the dream. I never gave up on the dream, but I’m also, sadly, very realistic. So [with McColl], I really just took it easy and enjoyed the journey. It’s been such a gift—I didn’t expect it. Then with him, I started to think it might all be possible. But I never let myself get too excited, because you just never know.”

The Kentucky start box looms nearer and nearer, but life on the farm continues at its usual chaotic pace as she balances horses and family. Mary Bess sat down to talk with EN in a short window of time between getting home from Stable View–where she and McColl finished 7th in the 4*– traveling across the state for her son’s soccer game, and organizing an 8th birthday party two weeks before cross country day. All this made possible by her invauable support system.

Mary Bess with her sons, Grayson and Austin, and Karen O’Connor at the Kentucky 4*-S in 2024. Photo courtesy of Mary Bess.

“It’s wild. It’s all in every direction but thankfully, I have the best team ever so that I can be in different places and you know that [the horses] are all taken care of.  Natalie Barnes and Felipe Patiño take care of the barn when I’m away and Courtney travels with me. My mom lives right next-door and then my mother-in-law is right around the corner so anytime I leave she comes to help which is amazing. Everything is taken care of for me because I just have such great people in my life, which is just lucky,” she said.

The competition and riding goals are squared away, thanks to invaluable expertise she’s gotten from longtime coaches Karen O’Connor and Mike Winter, and now it’s time to put pen to paper, so to say, and get the weekend started.

“It’s all the emotions daily. He looks great, but of course, I want to check on him all the time. You go through every emotion—one minute you feel ready, the next you’re second-guessing everything. But I am excited. I’m trying to remember to be excited with everything else going on. Everything looks really good. He’s so confident and so fit right now, so I feel confident—at least as confident as I can, going into something I’ve never done.”

Defender Kentucky: [Website] [Tickets] [Schedule] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of Defender Kentucky is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

Defender Kentucky 5* Draw Order Released: Tim Price is Pathfinder

By on Apr 11, 2025 5:04 pm -

Tim Price and Jarillo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The order of competitors has been drawn for the much anticipated Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by MARS Equestrian. Held April 24-27, 2025 at the Kentucky Horse Park, the CCI5*-L boasts 40 entries.

New Zealand’s Tim Price comes forward as trailblazer with Lucy Allison, Frances Stead, and James and Rachel Good’s Jarillo. His other two entries, Happy Boy and Falco will follow 20th and 38th, respectively. Harry Meade will be second to compete aboard Superstition, and Boyd Martin is third with Fedarman B as both these riders also have three horses entered.

The 2022 champions Michael Jung and fischerChipmunk FRH come early in the order as they have been drawn as the eighth combination.

The full draw order can be found at the bottom of this post. For a deeper dive into the 5* entries, click here.

Lisa Barry and Rosie’s Aventadora. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Lisa Barry will be the pathfinder for the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S with her own and Denise Barry’s Rosie’s Aventadora. Entires have dropped to 60 in this competitive division, as seven names have disappeared since entries went live, most notably, Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS, who were early favorites.

Click here to see the full order for the 4*, and click here for EN’s 4* entry preview.

Defender Kentucky: [Website] [Tickets] [Schedule] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of Defender Kentucky is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

NO. RIDER HORSE/OWNER NAT.
1 Tim Price JARILLO
Lucy Allison, Frances Stead, James and Rachel Good		 NZL
2 Harry Meade SUPERSTITION
Mandy Gray, Harry Meade		 GBR
3 Boyd Martin FEDARMAN B
Annie Goodwin Syndicate		 USA
4 Emily Hamel CORVETT
Black Flag Option, LLC		 USA
5 Jessica Phoenix FLUORESCENT ADOLESCENT
Makayla Rydzik		 CAN
6 Lindsay Traisnel BACYROUGE
Patricia Pearce		 CAN
7 Sharon White CLAUS 63
Sharon White		 USA
8 Michael Jung FISCHERCHIPMUNK FRH
Joachim Jung, Deutsches Olympiade-Komitee für Reiterei e.V., Klaus and Sabine Fischer		 GER
9 Clarke Johnstone MENLO PARK
Clarke Jonstone, Jean Johnstone, Rob Johnstone		 NZL
10 James Alliston KARMA
Alliston Equestrian, Ric Plummer		 USA
11 Caroline Pamukcu HSH DOUBLE SIXTEEN
Double Sixteen Partnership		 USA
14 Jonelle Price HIARADO
David and Karie Thomson		 NZL
15 Jennie Brannigan FE LIFESTYLE
Tim and Nina Gardner		 USA
16 Bruce (Buck) Davidson Jr SOROCAIMA
Buck Davidson and Carl Segal		 USA
17 Calvin Böckmann THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
Calvin Böckmann, Jason Böckmann, Liam Böckmann, Roger Böckmann, Simone Böckmann		 GER
18 Arden Wildasin SUNDAY TIMES
Arden Wildasin		 USA
19 Lauren Nicholson I’LL HAVE ANOTHER
Brandye Randermann		 USA
20 Tim Price HAPPY BOY
Susan Lamb, Therese Miller, Tim Price		 NZL
21 Harry Meade ET HOP DU MATZ
Mandy Gray, Harry Meade		 GBR
22 Boyd Martin LUKE 140
Luke 140 Syndicate		 USA
23 Libussa Lübbeke CARAMIA 34
Annelie and Martin Lübbeke		 GER
24 Katherine Coleman MONBEG SENNA
Kalai LLC		 USA
25 Monica Spencer ARTIST
Spencer Eventing		 NZL
26 Cassie Sanger REDFIELD FYRE
Cassie Sanger		 USA
27 Brooke Burchianti COOLEY SPACE GREY
Karin Burchianti		 USA
28 Julie Wolfert SSH PLAYBOY
Julie Wolfert, Renee Senter, Sheri Gurske		 USA
29 Tom McEwen BROOKFIELD QUALITY
Alison Swinburn, John and Chloe Perry		 GBR
30 Shannon Lilley EINDHOVEN GARETTE
Shannon Lilley, Alex Lilley		 USA
31 Caroline Pamukcu SHE’S THE ONE
Andy and Mollie Hoff, Sherrie Martin, Caroline Pamukcu		 USA
32 Rebecca Braitling CARAVAGGIO II
Arnell Sporthorses, Rebecca Braitling		 AUS
33 Mary Bess Davis IMPERIO MAGIC
Mary Bess Davis		 USA
34 Jennie Brannigan TWILIGHTSLASTGLEAM
Nina Gardner		 USA
35 Matthew Brown ALDERWOOD
Shelley Onderdonk, D.V.M.		 USA
36 Ema Klugman BRONTE BEACH Z
Bronte Beach Syndicate		 AUS
37 Lucienne Bellissimo DYRI
Horse Scout Eventing, LLC		 GBR
38 Tim Price FALCO
Sue Benson, Tim Price		 NZL
39 Harry Meade GRAFENNACHT
Amanda Gould		 GBR
40 Boyd Martin COMMANDO 3
Yankee Creek Ranch, LLC		 USA

EN’s coverage of Defender Kentucky is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

Boyd Martin Dominates Stable View Spring CCI4*-S

By on Apr 5, 2025 8:33 pm -

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Boyd Martin very nearly swept the Stable View Spring CCI4*-S podium this weekend in Aiken, S.C., claiming 1st, 2nd and 4th among a stand-out class. The placings shuffled between his three horses, but Boyd refused to concede the top spot in any phase. Once the dust settled, Yankee Creek Ranch’s Commando 3 (Connor 48 – R-Adelgunde, by Amigo xx) emerged as the winner.

The 12-year-old Holsteiner kicked things off on Friday by winning the dressage on a 26. “He was sensational on the flat. He put in a great test. He’s a horse that’s got incredible extravagance, and he’s performing well. He’s just starting to get really seasoned at this level, so we’re very pleased with his dressage test,” Boyd said.

“Connor” stepped down into second place after one rail dropped in the show jumping before once again pouncing into the lead during the final phase cross country phase, which he completed with eight time penalties for a score of 38.

“Even though we had four penalties (in the show jumping), I was very pleased with how he jumped a tough, technical track. It was up to size, and we just ticked the third-last fence,” he continued.

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Connor was poised to strike in his five-star debut last fall at Maryland, but an early fall thwarted their efforts, leaving the pair with increased grit and determination as they set their sights on the Kentucky CCI5*-L.

“This cross-country course (at Stable View) was a great preparation for him. It had everything: good coffins, three water jumps, corners, and narrows, and he gave me a really positive, brave feeling the whole way around,” Boyd said. “We still have three weeks of training ahead, with a couple more gallops, but I’ve got my tail up with Connor. I think he’s in great shape coming into Kentucky.”

Boyd Martin and Fedarman B. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Boyd’s Paris Olympics partner Fedarman B showed his depth of experience trailblazing for his stablemates, especially as he navigated the Defender Columbia Coffin Question at 12abcd, which had riders buzzing as they walked the course. Eight time penalties granted “Bruno” a second place finish (38.8)

“He went really well. He’s in great shape. This is his first time going to Kentucky. He’s been to Luhmühlen (Germany), Pau (France) and he’s been to the Olympic Games, but he’s never really competed [at this level] in America. He’s almost a little too brave sometimes on cross country, but the five-star events suit him,” Boyd said. “We’ll try to get him settled in, but it’s important not to ride him too fast in a five-star because it’s a long, demanding course. I think Kentucky’s big jumps and open gallops will actually suit him. He gets a bit over-aggressive sometimes, but if we can keep him relaxed between the jumps, I think he’ll do great.”

Last (for Boyd), but certainly not least — he was fourth in fact — is Luke 140 (Landos x Omega VI, by Limbus).

Riding for the Luke 140 Syndicate, Boyd piloted this “wild man” slightly slower than the rest with 11.2 time penalties added for the sake of control, but came through the finish flags with an increased confidence in the 14-year-old Holsteiner.

Boyd Martin and Luke 140. Photo by Shelby Allen.

 

“He’s a rocket ship, and I love him,” Boyd said. “He’s a maniac—he’s got this amazing blend of careful and brave. I’ve been a bit cautious with him because he’s wild! It’s tough to contain him at times, but I think we’re in good shape with him.”

For a horse who often teeters the line between feral and fantastic, Boyd is hopeful that a massive endurance challenge in Kentucky will be a good match for “Luke.” “He’s a pain in the ass every single day. He’s just a ball of energy, and he can’t contain himself. It’s in his DNA—he’s not being naughty, he’s just wild! I’ve come off him seven times this year, but you have to remind yourself that when it gets tough at the top level of sport, he’s a champ. I’ve put up with a lot, but I think he’s one of the best horses in the country.”

Boyd’s winter season was slightly unusual after a hip surgery set him on the sidelines briefly. Coming back from that, he’s carefully calculated his training, and these results at Stable View were gratifying proof that everything was going to plan.

“I’ve been a little cautious with them this year after surgery early on. I’ve been taking it easy, focusing on keeping them healthy and confident in their preparation,” he said. “Today, though, I felt like it was time to open them up a bit. I needed a good fitness run, and the crew here at Stable View did a sensational job on the footing. It was the perfect moment to push them without taking any ridiculous risks.”

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Shelby Allen.

No one was able to wrestle the lead from Boyd, but Morven Park CCI4*-L winners Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy (Cit Cat x Stomeyford Black Pearl) came the closest. Julie had the pedal down with Sheri Gurske, Renee Senter and her own 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse, finishing three seconds over the optimum time — the fastest round of the day — to plant themselves on the podium in third place.

“I wasn’t trying to be the fastest, but I was trying to be fast. I’m preparing for my first five-star, and I really wanted to use this weekend as a good prep for it. I wanted to see where his fitness level was, so I tried to ride a little tighter, taking more direct lines to the fences. He was such a champ. I’m so excited! He felt incredible today,” Julie said. “He just made it look easy. And at the end of the day, that’s what I wanted. I almost want four-stars to feel a little boring for him, right? So then you know you did all the preparation right so you’re ready for your first five star.”

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Stable View was a key preparatory event for Julie and “Jaego” as they have plans for a five-star debut this spring. They are entered at Kentucky, but she’s also applied for the European Development Tour which would pivot their travel plans toward Luhmühlen instead. Julie has been somewhat of a nomad this spring in preparation—traveling back and forth from her home base in Bucyrus, KS, to FEI competitions along the east coast. This commitment to her own competition goals as well as her students back home is a sacrifice, but one that has bolstered her belief in her riding.

“It’s so rewarding, honestly. I get emotional just talking about it, but it can be so hard eventing in the Midwest. When I can compete alongside people from the bigger Areas and even be on the podium, it feels pretty amazing, like I compete with with them, and you know, prevent Boyd from having a podium sweep. I can’t see myself as the underdog anymore. It’s kind of cool—I really am a good rider, and it gives me so much confidence.”

Starting in 15th, those scant 1.2 cross country time penalties were Julie and Jaego’s only fault to finish on 39.3 penalties.

Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Great Britain’s Lucienne Bellissimo rounds out the top five with Horse Scout Eventing’s Dyri. Like Julie, Lucienne is also gearing up for her and the 13-year-old Holsteiner’s (Diarado x La Calera, by King Milford xx) first five-star.

This pair were second after the first phase on a commendable 27.9 and dropped one rail in the show jumping, which Lucienne feels is an effect of her shifting focus toward fitness work rather than gridwork at home, but she got the best feel from his confident cross country effort, which added 13.6 time penalties.

“He was unusually a little bit lit up and strong for the first six or seven fences. We came out of the start box a bit energized, but I could feel the fitness work starting to kick in, which is great because that’s something he’s struggled with historically—staying with me and staying switched on for cross-country. But all in all, it was one of the best rides he’s given me. He had a lot of confidence and wasn’t second-guessing or double-checking things. He felt a bit more set up, which I’m grateful for because the last thing I wanted was for him to go out and feel like he wasn’t trusting me,” she said.

For Lucienne the next three weeks will be focused on maintaining the confident feeling that she achieved at Stable View this weekend. “I’ll do some galloping, run through the test a few times, and just cross country school him.” she said. “But mainly, I just want to keep him safe, sound, and happy. I’m not going to Kentucky to try and lay down a great score; I’m going to try to quietly upgrade him, keep my head down, and just keep him confident. Hopefully, in time, he’ll become super competitive at that level.”

Emily Hamel and Corvett. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Aiken-based Emily Hamel and Corvett were sixth (46.2), Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic were seventh (48.7), and Mia Farley and BGS Calculated Chaos were eighth (51.3). Kim Severson and Cooley Corraghy Diamond were ninth (51.3), and Christina Henriksen finished 10th with Cisco’s Calor Z (51.4).

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

Will Coleman Dominates $100k Stirling Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field After Show Jumping

By on Feb 28, 2025 7:17 pm -

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Déjà vu anyone? The show jumping leaderboard at the 2025 $100,000 Stirling Venture Capital Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor Harris Insurance Services bears a nearly identical resemblance to the final standings of last year’s showcase. Today, just like last year, Will Coleman sits in the enviable position of first and second, while Boyd Martin is once again in third.

A minor injury interrupted much of the 2024 season for Hyperion Stud’s Chin Tonic HS, making this event his official return to action. He dove in head first, making waves with a new GPE dressage record of 17.3.

In addition to being an easy favorite this weekend — Equirating’s gave him a 38% chance of winning — the Holsteiner gelding (Chin Champ – Wildera, by Quinar Z) also boasts an impressive show jumping resume. Today’s double clear shouldn’t have come as a surprise considering he’s jumped clear in his last eight International appearances.

“I was pretty happy,” Will said, “I mean, Chin hasn’t been in a real competitive setting in, you know, 10 months, so I was thrilled with him just coming in here. He was a little bit over the top, excited, and maybe lost the shape a little bit going through his round, but he just tried so hard to leave the poles up. I sort of got away with it.”

Will Coleman and Off The Record. Photo by Shelby Allen.

While Chin is the only horse from Will’s barn to have won here, his stablemate Off The Record doesn’t seem to have any plans to leave Aiken, S.C. without a prize check of his own.

The World Championship silver medalist remains of his dressage score of 26 after delivering in the first two phases. He’s closing in on another podium finish as he looks forward to the final, and arguably, his strongest phase. A true galloper through and through, this venue doesn’t necessarily seem like a perfect fit for the long format superstar, but his performance here last year proved that the Irish Sport Horse (Arkansas – Drumagoland Bay, by Ard Ohio) is ready to rise to the challenge no matter the environment.

“Off the Record, I think, jumped out of his socks today. I was thrilled with him. He’s just the most amazing horse. He just keeps kind of giving us what he can, and it’s more than good enough. He’s just been a wonderful horse. And I’m just lucky to have him, you know, right here with me now at 16 years old, but he still feels like he loves it and certainly doesn’t feel like he wants to be retired anytime soon,” he said.

Will’s rides are separated by 8.7 points or 21 seconds on cross country. While Chin has a great deal of wiggle room, Timmy only has one second to keep a nose ahead of third place.

“Timmy, he loves competing. I think he will go and just be Timmy out there tomorrow. I don’t know if that’s gonna be good enough to go clean and make the time, but I think we’re gonna go and give it a crack and let him have a bit of fun. He loves this kind of stuff. I think the time will be incredibly difficult to make. I’m not sure anybody will get it.”

Boyd Martin and Fedarman B. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Riding for the Annie Goodwin Syndicate, Boyd Martin has piloted his 2022 winner Fedarman B into third place.

“Bruno,” who he rides in honor of the late Annie Goodwin, is a hometown favorite and seems to grow to match the crowd’s excitement as he makes his way around the arena.Boyd and the KWPN gelding (Eurocommerce Washington – Paulien B, by Fedor) look ahead to the finale on a score of 26.7.

“Bruno is just a legend. I’ve gotta make sure that I get myself focused and fired up for the show jumping – usually I’m terrified and nervous in the warm-up and my coach Peter [Wylde] said ‘hey, come on and just sharpen up a bit here’ and he’s such a such a phenomenal jumper. He’s still a real joy to ride,” Boyd said.

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Boyd increased his chance for a top finish by jumping clear a second time with Yankee Creek Ranch LLC’s Commando 3 for fourth place overnight.

The Holsteiner (Connor 48 – R-Adelgunde, by Amigo XX) called “Connor” looked much more at home in this year’s competition, and he’ll hope to improve last year’s 17th place finish.

Monica Spencer and Artist. Photo by Shelby Allen.

One rail fell and six extra seconds elapsed for kiwi Monica Spencer, dropping her and her own Artist from second to fifth on a score of 29.6.

“I thought he jumped super. I don’t think I quite got him straight before fence three—it was in the shade, so I probably didn’t do him justice there. And then, he was just a little slow. I need to get back into competition mode. Early season and all that… Even with a few faults today, I’m still in a good spot, and that’s the bonus of having a solid dressage score. I’m really happy with him,” she said.

Jennie Brannigan and FE Lifestyle. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Jennie Brannigan also joined the clear round club aboard her reliable campaigner FE Lifestyle. Owned by Nina and Tim Gardner, “Foxy,” carries a score of 31.1 into the final phase in sixth place.

Sharon White and Claus 63. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Where last year’s debut had tension and apprehension, 12 months gave Sharon White’s Claus 63 a wealth of confidence that allowed her to push him to a dressage result of 27.9 (a 13-point improvement from 2024). The Holsteiner (Catoo – Tina II, by Levisto) tipped a rail from fence three to sit on a two-phase score of 31.9 for seventh place.

Phillip Dutton and Possante. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Eight jump penalties lowered Phillip Dutton from third to eighth place with The Possante Group’s Possante. Fortunately, the KWPN gelding (Namelus R – Wendelien, by Otangelo) went sub-30 in the first phase, so their current penalty score of 32.9 leaves this pair still very much in the hunt.

Sarah Kuhn and Mr. Cash van de Start. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Ninth place belongs to local rider Sarah Kuhn and Deborah Kuhn’s Mr. Cash van de Start. One pole and 0.8 time penalties leaves them with a current score of 36.1.

Boyd closes out the top ten here with his final ride, The Nutcracker Syndicate and Ocala Horse Properties’ Cooley Nutcracker. “Bali” was formerly campaigned by Liz Halliday, with whom he finished top twenty at the Paris Olympics. Liz’s absence here at the showcase is palpable — not only is she a three-time winner, but generally a massive presence across the US eventing landscape. Boyd only recently took guardianship of the Irish Sport Horse (Tolan R. – Ballyshan Cleopatra, by Cobra), but he’s decided to rise to the challenge for his friend during her recovery. He and Bali sit on a score of 37.3.

Competition resumes with the cross country finale at 12:30 p.m.

$100k Stirling Venture Capital Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field (SC): [Website] [Schedule] [Entries] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Tickets] [Volunteer] [EN’s Coverage]

Chin Tonic HS Breaks Records in $100k Stirling Venture Capital Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase Dressage

By on Feb 28, 2025 2:04 pm -

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Defending champions Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS cracked the code on the first phase of the 2025 $100,000 Stirling Venture Capital Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor, Harris Insurance Services (GPE). Their mic drop was an incredible 17.3 in the first phase, now this event’s lowest ever dressage score, usurping Doug Payne and Starr Witness who earned a 19.9 in 2023.

“It’s great to have him back period, and to be back here in Aiken is doubly special,” Will said of Hyperion Stud’s 2012 Holsteiner gelding (Chin Champ – Wildera, by Quinar Z). “He was excited to be out and see all these people.”

After winning here one year ago, the gelding suffered a minor event that sidelined him for nearly the entirety of the season, making this their debut back to the action. Though two more challenges are yet to come for this combination, they are notoriously proficient in the show jumping phase where they haven’t seen a rail fall in their last eight International runs.

Monica Spencer and Artist. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Speaking of personal bests, New Zealand’s Monica Spencer grabbed at her own aboard the capable 2011 Thoroughbred Artist (Guillotine – Maxamore, by Volksraad). Their 22.4 puts them in second place.

Phillip Dutton and Possante. Photo by Shelby Allen.

The penultimate combination of the day, Phillip Dutton and Possante land in third place on 24.9.Will Coleman’s second leaderboard appearance is fourth place with Off The Record on a score of 26. 2022 champions Boyd Martin and Fedarman B  are in fifth place on 26.7.

Competition continues with show jumping at 3:00 p.m. If you aren’t lucky enough to join us under a cloudless sky here in Aiken, be sure to catach all the action on Horse & Country TV.

$100k Stirling Venture Capital Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field (SC): [Website] [Schedule] [Entries] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Tickets] [Volunteer] [EN’s Coverage]

FEI Issues Yellow Card in Response to PETA Complaint

By on Jul 28, 2024 4:35 am -

Carlos Parro and Safira. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

This story has been updated with comment from the rider. 

The FEI have issued a yellow card at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games to Brazilian team rider Carlos Parro in response to concerns raised by the animal rights group PETA.

A letter of concern and photographs were sent by PETA which appear to show Carlos hyper-flexing Safira to FEI president Ingmar De Vos on Friday.

“The FEI can confirm receipt of the letter and accompanying photographs from PETA highlighting the concerns about the conduct of Brazilian athlete Carlos Parro. The FEI Officials have issued a yellow warning card as the action of the athlete could have caused unnecessary discomfort to the horse,” The FEI said in a statement.

“Additionally, the Ground Jury has directly addressed the situation with the athlete and the chef d’Equipe of Brazil. The FEI Stewards are aware of this incident and will be vigilant at all times for any behavior that is not in line with horse welfare and are prepared to take immediate action if such behavior occurs.”

The four-time Olympian is ranked 51 after the first phase with his and John and Juliet Chambers’ Safira, a 12-year-old British Sport Horse (Spring’s Spirit – Hidden Sapphire, by Uptons Deli Circus), on a score of 37.7.

Following cross country, Carlos responded to the warning stating that the mare is an anxious type and “naturally” can move in that way when the reins slack. “The stewards were there. They could have seen if I was done anything wrong, and they didn’t. She will do that anytime. You let the reins go, the first thing she’ll do is put her head down,” he said, adding that on that day schooling he tried Safira in a double bridle, which he doesn’t normally employ.

“I did try a double bridle on her that day. I was suggested to try it because as I said she does tend to put her head down. It was suggested to me that I put a double bridle to help her come up a bit. It could have been that she didn’t want it, but I’ve never ridden in a double bridle before. It’s always on a snaffle. I put snaffle back, it’s fine,” he said. Carlos went on to complete his dressage test in his usual snaffle bridle.

“I think it’s it’s wrong that the governing body is accepting that and giving them wood for the fire. Because, as I said I was not riding her over-bent. She did it by herself. My hands were loose. The curb rein was loose. It’s not something I do. We love the horses. That’s why we do sport. When we were kids we rode every day because we wanted to be around them not to treat them badly,” he said.

#Paris2024: [Website] [Equestrian Schedule, Timing, Scoring] [Peacock for U.S. Viewers] [How to Watch Guide] [Ticket Resale Market] [Spectator Guides] [EN’s Coverage] [Form Guide] [Team Form Guide] [Dressage Companion Guide]

Leipheimer Van’t Verahof: The Olympic Eventing Stallion Who Delivered Personal Best for Belgium

By on Jul 27, 2024 3:00 pm -

Karin Donckers and Leipheimer Van’t Verahof. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

With seven Olympic Games, eight World Championships, and 14 European Championships on her resume, Belgium’s Karin Donckers has partnered with a slew of talented horses throughout her lengthy career, but this season brings Joris De Brabander’s talented stallion Leipheimer Van’t Verahof into the spotlight.

The name may sound awfully familiar, and it should. The 13-year-old Belgian Warmblood (Vigo d Arsouilles STX – Southern Queen xx, by South Gale xx) is a full brother to Karin’s former Olympic and World Championship partner Fletcher van’t Verahof. “Leip” is also the only stallion in Paris’ 64-entry field. He balances his busy competition schedule with an equally demanding breeding schedule, and so far, he’s got one offspring competing at International levels, the 6-year-old Next Level Leipeimer Dutch.

Fathered by 2010 Show Jumping World Champion Vigo d Arsouilles STX, Leip certainly boasts his sire’s athleticism over fences, while also benefiting from the blood of his dam, the Thoroughbred mare Southern Queen xx. 

Karin Donckers and Leipheimer Van’t Verahof. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

All horses have their unique quirks, and that’s especially true of stallions in sport, but it’s no bother to Karin. “You have to respect the stallions the way they are. That’s what I have learned from them,” Karin said. And this lesson began early in life, as Karin rode whatever she could as a child. “It’s not the first time that I’ve ridden a stallion. I never had the choice to choose what I got to ride. I grew up on a farm where we didn’t have the money to buy nice ponies, so I’ve learned throughout my life to get the best out of the horse that you have.”

To date, Karin’s best CCI4*-L finish in fact has been thanks to a stallion, Lamicell Charizard, with whom she was third at Pau in 2014. 

“You have to respect them more and really accept how they are. If you have a good trust relationship with them, then you have to believe that they will fight for you,” she said. “But I find it a bit different then the mares or the geldings, the geldings are a bit more easy going. The mares are a bit more of the fighters. The stallions are a bit different.”

Karin Donckers and Leipheimer Van’t Verahof. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Karin’s three-time World Championship partner “Fletch” may now be stepping aside to let his stablemate into the limelight, but the Belgian rider always knew what Leip could be capable of, as she brought him up the ranks herself. 

“We worked seven years with the stallion really towards this. Even at Le Lion d’Angers when he was seven year old that I felt that he was my next championship horse,” she said. 

Her Paris ride rose to the occasion today when it mattered most: delivering a personal best of 26.6 on the world’s biggest stage, a massive aid to the burgeoning Belgian team.

#Paris2024: [Website] [Equestrian Schedule, Timing, Scoring] [Peacock for U.S. Viewers] [How to Watch Guide] [Ticket Resale Market] [Spectator Guides] [EN’s Coverage] [Form Guide] [Team Form Guide] [Dressage Companion Guide]

Behind the Barn with Yasmin Ingham and Tom McEwen

By on Apr 27, 2024 7:42 am -

The British have landed! Tom McEwen and Yasmin Ingham are currently first and second, respectively, in the CCI5*-L, but when they’re not going head-to-head on the leaderboard, they’re always down for a good laugh. You can watch this and the entire library of these episodes on the Kentucky YouTube channel here.

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Ride Times] [Live Stream] [Ultimate Guide] [EN’s Coverage]

Behind the Barn with Caroline Pamukcu and Hannah Sue Hollberg

By on Apr 26, 2024 10:02 am -

Whose spirit animal is a bald eagle? Does Kentucky have a distinct smell? And how in the world do you pronounce Pamukcu? The most unconventional questions that equestrian journalists don’t have the cojones to ask are answered as Caroline Pamukcu and Hannah Sue Hollberg sit down for episode 11 of Behind the Barn.

Don’t forget you can watch the entire library of these episodes on the Kentucky YouTube channel here.

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Ultimate Guide] [EN’s Coverage]

Behind the Barn with “The Smiling Assassin” Jessica Phoenix

By on Apr 25, 2024 7:44 pm -

Jessica Phoenix may be one of the friendliest event riders of all time, but her peers know her as one of the grittiest, toughest riders around — and she does it all with a smile on her face. The most recent episode of Behind the Barn gets us up close and personal with one of Canada’s most decorated event riders.

Don’t forget you can watch the entire library of these episodes on the Kentucky YouTube channel here.

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Ultimate Guide] [EN’s Coverage]

Behind the Barn with Buck Davidson and Leslie Law

By on Apr 25, 2024 12:30 pm -

If Buck Davidson was an animal what would he be? What is Leslie Law’s skincare routine? Who has the best Irish accent? These hard hitting questions and MORE answered in the latest episode of Behind the Barn.

There’s plenty more where that came from. You can check out the entire library on the Kentucky YouTube channel here.

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event: [Website] [Tickets] [Entries/Drawn Order] [Form Guide] [EN’s Coverage]

Behind the Barn with Phillip Dutton and A Walk Down Memory Lane

By on Apr 25, 2024 6:17 am -

Phillip Dutton has been a familiar face around the Kentucky Three-Day Event for nearly 30 years. Since his first trip around the bluegrass in 1996, he boast an 88% cross country clear jumping rate, so theres few who know this place better than Phil. He takes a walk down memory lane, reflecting on the venue and some of the incredible horses he’s shared it with.

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event: [Website] [Tickets] [Entries/Drawn Order] [Form Guide] [EN’s Coverage]

Behind the Barn with the Next Generation

By on Apr 24, 2024 6:21 pm -

Who says their dad is bad at golf? Whose parent loves munching on vegemite? This and more straight from the mouths of babes.

The latest edition of Behind the Barn features a few very special guests: children of Kentucky competitors. Your kids can be your toughest critic, so what do these youngins think about their parents? Tune in above and check back for even more episodes dropping this week on the Kentucky YouTube channel here.

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event: [Website] [Tickets] [Entries/Drawn Order] [Form Guide] [EN’s Coverage]

Sunday Links from EcoVet

By on Apr 14, 2024 12:01 am -

On the second day of competition at the FEI Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market International Horse Trials, the indomitable pair of Laura Collett and London 52 emerged as the dressage winners of the four-star class. Of the 94 entries, Laura and Dan were the only pair to crack the teens. They’re sat on a 19.4 ahead of Sunday’s jumping phases.

[FEI Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market International Horse Trials – Saturday Round-up]

U.S. Weekend Action

F.E.N.C.E. H.T. (Tryon, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Longleaf Pine H.T. (Raeford, NC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Unionville Horse Trials (Unionville, PA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Spring Bay H.T. (Lexington, KY) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Twin Rivers Spring International (Paso Robles, CA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring] [Live Stream]

International Events

Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market International (Norfolk, UK) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring] [Live Stream]

North Holland Horse Trials (The Netherlands) [Website] [Entries] [Scoring] [Live Stream]

Sunday Links:

Now On Course: AEC Dreaming After a 30-Year Hiatus with Kelly O’Brien

Applications for The Event at Rebecca Farm Travel Grant Due June 1

The U.S.-Bred Horse Taking On The Jumping World Cup Final

‘I hope this will encourage others’ – owner-breeder tells the story of Laura Collett’s Badminton ride

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Chin Tonic HS Untouchable in $100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field

By on Mar 1, 2024 9:07 pm -

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS. Photo by Sally Spickard.

It’s been five years since Will Coleman graced the entry list here at Bruce’s Field, but he’s returned with a bang: headlining the leaderboard of the 2024 $100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field with EquiRatings’ favorite to win Chin Tonic HS. 

With such a banner year ahead — the elephant in the room being the 2024 Paris Olympic Games — Will opted to move “Chin” outside his comfort zone. “He’s never been here before, so that was part of the idea. We’re trying to just continue to season him for some some bigger things in his career. He’s kind of entering his prime, I would say,” he said of Hyperion Stud’s 14-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Chin Champ – Wildera, by Quinar). “Our plan is to not do a five-star this year, so we decided that this event could serve as well. And we’re going to use the atmosphere and sort of the five-star feel that it gives you here, which I think very beneficial [for both my horses.]”

Will is likely not alone in this goal, and tomorrow’s cross country test, which packs 29 efforts in a 4 minute 18 second time, may emulate more of the twisty, punchy course we may expect at the upcoming Olympics.

“I don’t know if [this kind of track] really suits any horse that well, but that’s part of why you do it. I think you can get better from from doing stuff like this,” Will explained. “And for Chin, he’s a really good horse, and he’s gotten way better in his cross country at reading the questions, but this will be a good early season test where the rideability is and where his brain is.”

Will Coleman and Off The Record. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Both of Will’s entries, Chin and Off The Record, who jumped five spaces from 10th to 5th, were among the sixteen to jump a double clear effort, contributing to the 43% clear jumping rate.

Phillip Dutton and Possante. Photo by Shelby Allen.

U.S. Team stalwart Phillip Dutton moved himself into the reserve position with Possante, an 11-year-old KWPN gelding (Namelus R – Wendelien, by Otangelo) who was previously campaigned by Emily King. Their partnership began in earnest only recently in the fall of 2023.

“We’re still getting to know each other, and we’re very excited. Obviously he’s a talented horse, but you never quite know what they’re going to do when you have atmosphere and conditions like we had today. He stepped up, but we really haven’t been to battle yet on cross country with anything too difficult, so we’ll see how we do tomorrow,” Phillip said.

Owned by The Possante Group, “Impy” remains on his dressage score of 30.6 after a faultless jumping effort despite a less than ideal warmup.

Phillip Dutton and Quasi Cool. Photo by Shelby Allen.

“We jumped better than I thought he was going to because in the warm up he’s very spooky,” Phillip described. “He’s a bit horse shy, and there’s a lot of people there, so the warm up was more difficult than getting in the ring. There’s a lot lot to look at [too, in the arena] with the cross country jumps and it’s quite a unique arena to jumping in. I was really pleased with him.”

Phillip’s second ride, Caroline Moran’s Quasi Cool, moved down the leaderboard from third to eighth after having one rail down and two seconds against the clock.

Boyd Martin and Fedarman B. Photo by Shelby Allen.

2022 Champions Boyd Martin and the Annie Goodwin Syndicate’s Fedarman B hold third place overnight. “Bruno” is one of the strongest show jumpers in the field — he and Boyd have only had one rail down in their International career together — and he looked very much at home around Michel Villancourt’s track.

“He’s a champion. He’s probably the best show jumper I’ve ever had, so there’s never an excuse to have a rail down. He’s a phenomenal athlete. He’s razor sharp, He’s confident. He’s careful. And he’s one of the only horses I just have immense confidence in, going into the show jumping.  sometimes I’ve got to make make myself cautious enough, because he’s so so good at jumping, that I don’t get too blasé,” Boyd said of the 14-year-old KWPN gelding (Clooney – Paulien B, by Fedor).

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg TSF. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Second after dressage, Tsetserleg TSF tumbled down to sixth after a miscommunication at fence three saw the rail fall. He carries a current score of 33. Boyd’s final ride Commando 3 sits 14th after a double clear show jumping result.

Liz Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker. Photo by Shelby Allen.

With more wins here than any other rider, Liz Halliday is currently most competitive with Cooley Nutcracker, a 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Tolant R – Ballyshan Cleopatra, by Cobra) owned by his namesake syndicate. She and “Bali” are fourth after a clear round on a score of 31.6, which is just over five points behind our leaders.

Her two other rides, Cooley Quicksilver and Miks Master C each saw one pole come down and sit 12th and 16th, respectively.

Monica Spencer and Artist. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Seventh place belongs to kiwi eventer Monica Spencer and her ex-racehorse Artist. You may recognize the name from the Maryland CCI5*-L last fall where they finished seventh. After that top ten display, Monica returned home to the southern hemisphere before relocating once again to the United States only a month ago. This being their first run of the 2024 season, she and “Max,” hold their dressage score of 33.2 going into Saturday’s cross country finale.

Colleen Loach and Vermont. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Flying the flag for Canada, Colleen Loach moved herself into the top ten with Peter Barry’s Vermont, a 12-year-old Hanoverian gelding (Van Helsing – Hauptstutbuch Hollywood, by Heraldik xx). They hold a score of 34.6 after a double clear show jumping effort.

Doug Payne and Camarillo. Photo by Shelby Allen.

The best of Doug Payne’s three entries is Camarillo, a 10-year-old Zweibrucker gelding (Chicardo – Rehobeth, by Riverman) owned by Doug and Patrice Jennings-Rado. The quick-footed grey remains on his dressage score of 35.3 for 10th place overnight.

Cross country begins at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday with Doug set as our first rider aboard Quantum Leap. If you aren’t some of the lucky ones joining us in Aiken tomorrow, watch all the action on Horse & Country. Click here to view your options and access the live stream.

$100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Ride For Charity Teams] [Ride For Charity Online Vote] [Volunteer] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage] [Ultimate Guide]

We’re pleased to introduce Deirdre Stoker Vaillancourt, with her robust expertise and portfolio of property options in the Aiken area, as the sponsor of our coverage of the Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce’s Field. Seasonal or year-round, southern charm and the sporting lifestyle await you in Aiken!

Favorites Coleman & Chin Tonic HS Rise to the Occasion in Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field

By on Mar 1, 2024 2:12 pm -

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS earn a 26.5 to win the first phase of the 2024 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce’s Field. Photo by Shelby Allen.

While the eventing calendar is well underway in the southeast, each year the Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor Harris Insurance Services feels like the unofficial starting line for the upper level campaigners’ spring season. This convergence of some of the most elite event riders in the world creates a melting pot of proven and potential world-beaters all looking to stretch their legs in a condensed format with $100,000 on the line.

Slated favorites, according to EquiRatings’ Prediction Centre, Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS are living up to their promise after the first phase with a score of 26.5 that has them leading the 37-entry field.

“It’s an early season test, so it’s kind of a ‘Where are we now?’ type weekend for us — that’s our reason for being here. They do a great job of presenting a big time atmosphere and a showcase event here, so I think it’s just great practice, and it’s an excellent opportunity for us to get this horse into this five-star test again,” Will said, noting his main goal for Chin was to squeeze out every mark possible in this test, especially throughout the flying changes.

Will and Hyperion Stud’s 2012 Holsteiner gelding (Chin Champ – Wildera, by Quinar), delivered a silky smooth test, which we’ve come to expect from the pair, though they are just hovering a few points above their six run International average of 22.5. Today, though, they were rewarded throughout the movements, with their halt standing out as a perfect 10 for dressage judge Xavier Le Sauce at B.

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg TSF. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Olympic and World Championship stalwarts Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg TSF landed in second place on a 29, earning an identical score of 71.11% from Le Sauce at B with our dressage winners. “Thomas,” a 2007 Trakehner gelding (Windfall – Thabana, by Buddenbrock), was absolutely at home in this Aiken venue. Though he hasn’t won here yet, he has previously posted two of the top ten dressage scores in this event’s history — a 23.7 in 2022 and 23 in 2023.

Phillip Dutton and Possante. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Phillip Dutton slots into the top three in this early phase with the only other sub-20 dressage result aboard Caroline Moran’s Quasi Cool, a 2011 Holsteiner gelding (Quo Vados – B-Estelle, by Lord). He’s also fourth with one of his newest partners, Possante, a 2013 KWPN gelding (Namelus R – Wendelien, by Otangelo), on a 30.6.

The final pair of the morning, 2022 GPE winners Boyd Martin and Fedarman B, battled what was likely the biggest downpour of the day to sit fifth on a score of 31.3.

Liz Halliday and Miks Master C. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Three-time GPE winner Liz Halliday is well in the hunt with three horses giving her a pre-competition 38% likely win chance. Cooley Nutcracker is the best placed of the bunch currently in sixth (31.6), followed by Cooley Quicksilver in seventh (31.7) and Ocala Horse Properties and Deborah Palmer’s Miks Master C in ninth (32).

Competitors next turn their attention to Michel Villancourt’s show jumping track, and we will welcome our first rider in the ring at 3 p.m. Stay tuned for much more from Bruce’s Field.

$100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Ride For Charity Teams] [Ride For Charity Online Vote] [Volunteer] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage] [Ultimate Guide]

We’re pleased to introduce Deirdre Stoker Vaillancourt, with her robust expertise and portfolio of property options in the Aiken area, as the sponsor of our coverage of the Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce’s Field. Seasonal or year-round, southern charm and the sporting lifestyle await you in Aiken!

Jenny Caras and Trendy Fernhill Tip the Scales in TerraNova CCI4*-L

By on Nov 19, 2023 8:00 pm -

Jenny Caras and Trendy Fernhill. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Eventing is a sport where winners are often decided by the smallest of margins, and that rang especially true this weekend at The Event at TerraNova where the Galati Yacht Sales CCI4*-L, presented by Insurance Office of America, was decided by one second of time in the final phase.

Dressage winner Lucienne Bellissimo had maintained her leading position after Saturday’s endurance test by just two-tenths of a point, but when she completed a clear show jumping round in 74 seconds, second-placed Jenny Caras, who navigated Marc Donovan’s course in 73 seconds, stepped to the top of the podium — claiming her second career CCI4*-L victory with Trendy Fernhill.

Jenny has been partnered with Trendy Fernhill (Ars Vivendi — Cruseings Girl, by Cruising) or “Joey” since he was four, but he’s come a long way from the wild-eyed Irish gelding she met off the plane. “When I got him as a four year old I think I re-broke him like five times,” she recalled, and although he’s still known to dump Jenny during a hack from time to time, Joey found his sea legs under her care and they settled into a comfortable rhythm together climbing the levels thanks to the support of his owner Elyse Eisenberg, who is based in Maryland.

Jenny moved him up to the Advanced level in 2020 where he won his debut CCI4*-S competition at Tryon, and most recently they were awarded a Karen E. Stives Endowment Fund Grant which allowed them to participate in their first-ever Nations Cup at Stzregom where they finished 11th individually. Their summer and a few runs at the intermediate level into the fall, gave the pair an enormous amount of confidence heading into this fall three-day.

Jenny Caras and Trendy Fernhill claim the top spoils. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

A score of 34.9 tied the pair for third on the flat despite a less than ideal entrance. “I came down the centerline and I think did like one of the best halt salutes that I’ve ever had on on him and then I just turned the corner and he actually broke into the canner. So that was hard way to actually start the test, but I just, you know, had to put that behind us and keep going,” Jenny said.

She admitted that cross country may be a challenge as this year she’s set a goal for herself to be more competitive against the clock — a big ask for the strong, big-strided gelding.

“I’ve struggled with him a bit in the past with time penalties. Just because he’s quite a strong horse and he’s has a huge stride to being able to not spend forever in front of the jumps setting up for the combinations. So I just recently changed his bit and his bridle, and I think he really likes it because it helps us be much more efficient, and I wasn’t having to work so hard to set him up,” Jenny said.

She trialed the new set up — a rubber gag with a loosely fitted figure eight — for the first time at Chattahoochee Hills last month. “That was the first time that I had tried it, and that’s actually the first time that I had ever made the time at an Intermediate or Advanced level competition on him, so I knew I was kind of on the right track. Then I was just hopeful that it would be the right thing at this level as well,” she said, and it turned out to be a Cinderella fit: she and Joey were the only pair out of 23 starters to finish Captain Mark Phillips’ track double clear.

Lucienne Bellissimo and Tremanton. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

“I knew I wanted to go out there and try and make the time while having all good jumps, and he’s just such an honest horse,” she said. “I’ve had him since he was four, and so we’ve done everything together and we know each other really well. So I know when I tell him ‘We’re a little bit off this corner but you’re going,’ that he knows his job. If you get him anywhere near the jump he wants to jump in for you, so I was lucky that way.”

Marc Donovan’s show jumping test on the final day proved influential toward both rails and time with only two pairs — Sara Kozumplik with Rock Phantom and Mary Bess Davis with Imperio Magic — jumping double clear. The course relied heavily on related distances, leaving little opportunity to make up time and therefore rewarding those who kept pace.

Second overnight, Jenny and Joey were the penultimate pair in Magnolia Ring and they demonstrated a stylish clear round only one second over the optimum time of 72 seconds for a final result of 35.3.

“He’s a careful horse but he’s a big, big, slow stepping guy so you kind of have to help him off the front rail. But that being said, I don’t know that there is a horse who tries harder. He goes out there and he knows that he’s not supposed to hit the jumps, and he just digs deep and tries hard. And I mean, he was just incredible. I don’t know that he touched a single jump,” Jenny said.

That one pesky second dropped Great Britain’s Lucienne Bellisimo and Horse Scout Eventing LLC’s Tremanton, an 11-year-old British Sport Horse (Birkhof’s Grafenstolz — Trevia, by Hand In Glove), to rest in the reserve position on 35.5 after a stylish show jumping effort that left all the rails in their cups.

Will Coleman and Diabolo. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Finishing in third was Will Coleman and one of his newest rides, Diabolo, who was produced through the four-star level previously by Gemma Tinney in Australia before making his way stateside in early 2023. The 11-year-old Holsteiner (Diarado — Roulett M, by Aljano 2) had 2.8 time penalties on cross country and 1.2 in show jumping for a final score of 38.

Watch the top three discuss their show jump rounds:

Alyssa Phillips and Cornelius Bo complete the comeback. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

CCI3*-L

The Estates at TerraNova CCI3*-L, presented by Laughlin Tanner Group at Premier Sotheby’s International Realty was dominated from start to finish by Alyssa Phillips and her own Cornelius Bo.

Alyssa first met the now-9-year-old Hanoverian (Concours Complet — Charlotte, by Carismo) in German five-star eventer Anna Siemer’s stable four years ago. The pair won their first four International events together in the U.S. at the two-star level. After setting in at the Intermediate level last year, Alyssa had big plans for “Corn” this season, but a “silly mistake” here in the spring left Alyssa with a broken ankle and several weeks out of the saddle.

“I was at the same event and was clocking around the cross country and then just a stupid, silly little mistake. And then there goes my ankle. And then I’m like, well, there goes the rest of my fall plans,” she said.

Two surgeries later, Alyssa decided to aim him for the CCI2*-L at Rebecca Farm in July, which she says was only possible thanks to riding help from Alexa Lapp. Cornelius Bo went on to win that event.

Heading into the fall, Alyssa was once again optimistic about her fall plans, but then got the most fortunate interruption when she was called up as the traveling reserve for the U.S. Team at the Pan American Games with her Advanced horse, Oskar.

“I didn’t think I’d make it [to Rebecca], and then I did. then slowly that the pieces for the fall started to fall into place. And then all of a sudden they called me in, they’re like, ‘Hey, you’re gonna be the traveling reserve for the Pan American Games.’ It throws me for a loop because I wasn’t expecting that by any means, so that changed plans again, but I think everything happens for a reason,” she said.

While she was on the road for most of October, her neighbors and friends Cornelia and Jacob Fletcher stepped in to keep her other horses fit and ready for this weekend’s event. Thanks to their help, Alyssa was able to quickly get back in town and finish this CCI3*-L on her dressage score of 28.

“He felt super, super confident leading into this week, and I think he knew he was he was somewhere big because on dressage day he grew about two inches and fancy pranced around and he was very good boy. He’s becoming such a great cross country horse, too. He’s super super careful in the show jumping and I’ve had to work through some of that and across country, but anytime there’s a problem, it’s normally my fault, so I was just hoping to give him a good go around the cross country as quickly as I could. He answered everything super easily, and was very confident about it all. And then he came out out today and he just, I mean, he just jumped out of his skin,” she said.

“Some people may think this year was crazy,” Alyssa continued. “And it was but I actually really appreciate this year a lot. I’ve learned a lot. I’ve grown a lot that horses have grown a lot and we ended it on a very, very great note and great experiences involved along the way.”

Michael Nolan finished second with Carrabeg Hulla Balou on a score of 32, and Caroline Pamaucku was third with Redfield Dexter on 32.5 points.

In the CC2*-L Meg Pellegrini claimed the top spot aboard Gorgeous DHI, and Lucienne Bellissimo was the winner of the CCI*-L with Duke’s Jory.

EN’s final report on The Event at TerraNova is brought to you with support from Ocala Horse Properties, your stop for horse property in Ocala and beyond. If you’re thinking of making the move to Florida, for all or part of the year, be sure to check in with Ocala Horse Properties for your farm-finding needs.

The Event at TerraNova: [Website] [Final Scores] [Live Stream Replays] [More Coverage]

Thursday News & Notes

By on Nov 9, 2023 12:01 am -

Got enough room in there, buddy? Sammy clearly wasn’t sure if he was going to quite squeeze through the keyhole with Mia Farley at the Maryland Five-Star last month. Click ahead to the next photo to see him come to a quick realization that he did — in fact — have plenty of space. That said, not all keyholes are as open or friendly, and whether or not keyholes are appropriate cross country questions has been debated since what feels like their entire existence. What do you think, EN?

U.S. Weekend Preview

Full Moon Farm’s Fall HT (Finksburg, MD) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (Reddick, FL) [Website] [Entries][Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

River Glen Fall H.T. (New Market, TN) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

News From Around the Globe:

It came down to the wire for the prolific U.S. Show Jumping Team to clinch a team spot at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. They finally sealed the deal at the 2023 Pan American Games — which was the last chance for qualification. Though they were fifth provisionally after the first day of competition, they cemented their team gold spot on the final day and confirmed a spot in Paris. Joining them are the Canadians who qualified dressage, show jumping and eventing teams at the Pan Ams. [Paris 2024 places go to the wire in final race for Olympic team tickets]

Bubby Upton is officially back in the saddle following a spine surgery. The 24-year-old suffered a riding accident on the flat in August which lead to a lumbar spine surgery. After 11 weeks of rehabilitation, Bubby made her way home to horseback on November 7, and says, “This is my comeback and I’m going to continue giving it my absolute all.” [‘The day I’ve been dreaming about’: five-star rider shares major milestone following spinal surgery]

We’ve got good news from the Aharoni crew: Dutch Times is on the mend. Arielle Aharoni’s Dutch Times suffered an injury at the Maryland Five-Star last month, where the rider says he ruptured the superficial digital flexor tendon and will require at least nine months of rehab. He’s been doted on by Arielle while he’s on stall rest with hand grazing privileges. Though his future isn’t clear, Arielle doesn’t think he’ll be ready to retire anytime soon. [Dutch Times is on the mend]

 

Stable View Celebrates 10 Years of Eventing With Oktoberfest Cross Country

By on Sep 30, 2023 8:59 am -

Fence 19, just one of the twenty-five questions facing the 4* riders this morning at Stable View Photo by Shelby Allen.

The entire team at Stable View has spent the last decade pouring their hearts and souls into the always adapting and improving facility here in Aiken, South Carolina, and this weekend is a celebration of all that they have accomplished at the Oktoberfest 2/3/4* and USEF/USEA Horse Trials. Of course one of the biggest components of an event venue is the cross country course, and Captain Mark Phillips has been an integral part of the vision and follow through of that effort for Stable View, and he once again comes forward as the course designer for the feature four-star class.

Competitors will be challenged with 37 jumping efforts that curl them around the sandy Aiken landscape, which the crew at Stable View has been tirelessly watering, and Mark will expect them back through the finish flags in an optimum time of 6 minutes 35 seconds. Easier said than done!

Overnight leader Phillip Dutton says this course, “is the best I’ve seen Mark do here,” and it’s certainly the creation of a man who knows this terrain and venue like the back of his hand. With that much familiarity, who better to take us around the Oktoberfest cross country course? Read on from Captain Mark Phillips himself:

“As riders set off from outside the Hunt Boxes, the Log Box (1) and the Hammock (2) have a familiar look to them. But turning down the hill towards the Meadow, the Diamond Brush, (3) with its new cedar top, starts to put the size of this year’s Oktoberfest into perspective.

“The Chevron Table and Corner in the Meadow (4) is a kind first combination before the climb up the hill to Boyd’s Table (5) and the Boyd’s Water Combination (6). While the Table is kind enough, riders will need to be brave at the Cabin and careful at the MIM Rail on the Mound. All will be thankful when the Open Corner after is behind them.

“The Log Pile (7) on the down slope to the Academy Alp looks massive. Riders have an interesting choice of the ends of the Alp (8) where the quicker right hand side down to a Stable View Shoulder looks a little scary while the left side will take longer.

Fence 12abc Stable View’s Sunken Road. Photo by Shelby Allen.

“The Hayrack (10) in the Cut Through and the Gate (11) after won’t hold too many fears but while the four efforts at the Sunk Road (12) is not new, it still needs a lot of respect.

15 a and bc over there in the far left of the photo, The Land Rover Question. Photo Courtesy of CrossCountryApp.

“Riders will enjoy Barry’s Desk (13) and the Memorial Garden Table (14) before coming to the daunting Derby Field Alp (15). Here the Triple Brushes and Brush Corner are definitely impressive.

Fence 17ab, the Beehive Oxers. Photo Courtesy of CrossCountryApp.

“The Cross Question (16) is unchanged but the Metal Oxer Combination (17) on the downslope cannot be taken for granted.

Fence 20a is followed by a corner at 20b. Photo Courtesy of CrossCountryApp.

“The Tiger Trap (18) is a welcome breather before the Derby Field. The Triple Bar (19) in the water followed by the Blanchard Table and Corner (20) will all come up quickly one after the other.

Fence 23a, followed by 23b in the second water, the GL Williams Water Complex. Photo by Shelby Allen.

“The Double Brush (21) with its new cedar top looks bigger than ever while the two Boats give the GL Williams Water (22) a completely new look. It’s then the run home over the Step Table (23) before the Stable View Village (24) and the Finish.

“A good round here will give horses and riders a massive confidence boost before heading for the Maryland 5* designed by Ian Stark later in the month.”

Need a TLDR? Check our EN’s quick ‘n dirty instagram reel:

First horse leaves the startbox for this division at 12:06 p.m. this afternoon. Check back with us to see how it all shakes out.

Stable View Oktoberfest 2/3/4* and H.T. (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Live Scores] [Ride Times/Orders of Go]