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Two Held, One Spun in Red Hills CCI4*-S Horse Inspection

Zoe Crawford and K.E.C. Zara. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Twenty five CCI4*-S pairs advance to the final phase at the 2020 Red Hills International Horse Trials after this morning’s horse inspection.

Two horses, Unmarked Bills and Clifford M were held by the Ground Jury of Judy Hancock (GBR) and Robert Stevenson (USA). Fifth-placed Unmarked Bills, who is ridden by Chris Talley, was accepted on representation. Charlotte Collier’s Clifford M, who was 10th after cross country, was unfortunately not accepted.

The CCI3*-S and CCI2*-S fields are also smaller by one. Savannah Blackstock’s GarryNdruig Albie was held and ultimately not accepted by the Ground Jury of Vanda Stewart (IRL) and Debbie Rodriguez (USA).

Connor Rollin’s On Target withdrew from the hold box in the two-star division.

The CCI2*-S show jumping is underway now. They will be followed by the four- and three-star divisions.

Red Hills International: WebsiteRide TimesLive ScoresEN’s Coverage, EN’s TwitterEN’s Instagram

Sunday Links from One K Helmets

Who says Brits can’t yee haw? When Tom McEwen’s martingale was causing problems this spring, he obviously undid his reins mid-ride, took it off and rode a few fences with it in his mouth?? Sure, right. What else would you do.

National Holiday: International Women’s Day

U.S. Weekend Action: 

Red Hills International H.T. (FL) [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Full Gallop Farm March H.T. (SC) [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Southern Pines H.T. (NC) [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Sunday Links:

Brandon McMechan and Oscar’s Wild Take the Cake

US eventing community acts to improve safety after rider’s death

Beautiful Bargain: Red Hills competitor shares the story of her $750 horse

Red Hills Trials competition underway in Tallahassee

Hot on Horse Nation: 6 Things You Can Say About Your Horse (but Not Your Girlfriend)

Red Hills: Kyle Carter & Gaillard Lancer Lead the CCI3*-S Class

Kyle Carter and Gaillard Lancer. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Spectators couldn’t have asked for a prettier Saturday at the 2020 Red Hills International Horse Trials, home to the mecca of Tallahassee tailgating. Horse enthusiasts and eventing regulars alike crowded around water jumps to whoop and holler for their favorite combinations.

Kyle Carter and Gaillard Lancer 9-year-old KWPN (Diardo x Urlanto) emerged as the leaders of the CCI3*-S division after battling David O’Connor’s cross country.

“I brought him here last year to do the one-star and we didn’t get around the course,” Kyle laughed. “So we had a lot of regrouping to do last year. Coming into this the plan was to go out on cross country today and not help him as much and try to let him see the combinations and deal with them a little more on his own.”

Luck was more on their side this year. They jumped clear with 4 time penalties to take control of the division on a score of 32.6. Gaillard Lancer is owned by Savannah Blackstock, who is currently sixth in the division with GarryNdruig Albie. The horse is now going on the market, but Kyle confirmed to EN that his dream would be to put together a partnership to keep the ride.

“We bought the horse for her, but she’s just a bit strong and cheeky, so I started riding him and he pretty much went from strength to strength,” Kyle said. “I think he could win a medal at the Worlds or Olympics.”

Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Christina Henriksen is second on a score of 33.9 with her own JTH Zest, a 9-year-old British Sport Horse (Zamboucca x Maybee Baybee). Lauren Nicholson was third and fifth with Landmark’s Monte Carlo and Vermiculus, respectively.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Seeking Fortune. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Photo by Shelby Allen.Liz Halliday-Sharp had a classic switcheroo in the CCI2*-S division. Her dressage winner Cooley Seeking Fortune, a 7-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Heritage Fortunus x Jade des Cotes) owned by Ocala Horse Properties, dropped into second, by her second-placed Cooley Be Cool, a 7-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Heritage Fortunus x HHS Carlota) owned by Ocala Horse Properties and The Monster Partnership, took over the lead.

Red Hills International: WebsiteRide TimesLive ScoresEN’s Coverage, EN’s TwitterEN’s Instagram

Brandon McMechan & Oscar’s Wild Motor to Red Hills CCI4*-S Lead

Brandon McMecahn and Oscar’s Wild. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Today was Os(k)ar’s day as we saw two horses of the same name leading the feature classes at the 2020 Red Hills International Horse Trials. Brandon McMecahn and Oscar’s Wild lead the CCI4*-S and Alyssa Phillips and Oskar lead the Advanced.

Brandon proved that speed was king today on Mike Etherington-Smith’s cross country track. He and Oscar’s Wild, an 11-year-old Thoroughbred (Whiskey Wisdom x Rax) owned by Michael and Glenn McMechan laid down the fastest trip of the day, coming home just three seconds over the time. Their red hot performance launched them from 18th after dressage into the top spot.

This is the pair’s second season at the level, having made their four-star debut here last year where they finished seventh.

“I have a great horse – today is his birthday, so he wanted to celebrate by putting in a nice, fast round for me,” Brandon said. Happy Birthday, Oscar!

Hallie Coon and Celien. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Tied dressage winners Hallie Coon and Sharon White both settled into second and third place, respectively.

Similarly to the first phase, they were again close to identical today. Hallie was only just faster, finishing four seconds ahead of Sharon, for second place with Celien, a 13-year-old KWPN mare (Tenerife VDL x R Quicksilver, by Hamlet) owned by Hallie & Helen Coon. They added 11.2 time penalties for a two-day score of 42.6.

Sharon White and Cooley On Show. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Sharon White and Cooley On Show are third. She and the 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Ricardo x Jogantina, by Grand D’Espange), who Sharon owns herself, accumulated 12.8 time penalties for a score of 44.2.

Leslie Law and Voltaire de Tre. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Leslie Law and Voltaire de Tre saw themselves move from 14th to 4th after cross country. He and Tre Brook’s 11-year-old Selle Francias (Gentleman IV x Jasmina du Fresne, by Socrate de Chivre) added 10 time penalties to sit on 45.8 points.

Chris Talley and Unmarked Bills. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Chris Talley and the adored 11-year-old off-track Thoroughbred Unmarked Bills also benefitted from a speedy trip. The second fastest of the day, they jumped 17 spots to land fifth with 8 time penalties added for a score of 47.5.

With five rides in the division, Jessica Phoenix’s best trip was aboard her own Pavarotti for sixth place after adding 14.4 time penalties. She’s also 8th with Humble GS (48.2), 12 with Watson GS (52.7), and 22nd with Wabbit (61.5). She retired with Bentley’s Best on course today after having a stop at 14B.

Emily Hamel and Corvett. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Emily Hamel sits in seventh with Corvett, a 13-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Corrido x Tina XII, by Clearway) owned by Black Flag Option LLC. They added 12.4 time penalties for a score of 48.

Maya Black piloted Miks Master C. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Maya Black piloted Miks Master C, an 8-year-old Swedish Warmblood (Mighty Magic x Qui Luma CBF, by Flyinge Quite Easy958) owned and bred by Laurie Cameron to 9th place on a score of 49.6, and Charlotte Collier and Clifford M, her 14-year-old Holsteiner (Cristo 5 x Naomi IV, by Carpaccio), hold 10th on 50.5 points.

Alyssa Phillips and Oskar. Photo by Shelby Allen.

The time was equally influential for the Advanced division, and once again we saw the fastest pair — Alyssa Phillips and Oskar — take over the lead.

At 7 minutes and 9 seconds, Alyssa and the 11-year-old Holsteiner owned by the rider and Julie Phillips added 14.8 time penalties to sit on a score of 38.9.

Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Overnight leaders Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous, a 14-year-old Oldenburg (Carry Gold x Richardia, by Lario), owned by Ms. Jacqueline Mars and Phoebe and Michael Manders, took an easy, confident trip around today, picking up 21.2 time penalties. That drops them to second place on a score of 41.2.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Flash Cooley. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Liz Halliday-Sharp cruised around with Flash Cooley to hold their third place position. The 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by Pru Dawes and Liz had 15.6 time penalties for a two-phase result of 46.1.

As predicted, the clock was the most significant obstacle riders faced today. Of the 29 horses in these two divisions, only three had jump penalties. Of the majority who went clear, only Brandon had less than 10 time penalties.

More quotes from the top

Brandon McMechan: “It really started to click in the last few years. I don’t have to take a lot of time setting him up. I think that’s probably the biggest think – we aren’t out there arguing. We’re out there as a team… after years and years of practice. I was hoping for a better performance yesterday after the dressage, but he won’t win the dressage. Today is the day he makes up ground.”

Hallie Coon: “She was a bit sleepy. We weren’t really set up timing-wise because of what was happening because of the holds, so I got out a bit too early. It was a hurry up and wait situation. Her warm up is so fine tuned at this point – we’re an old married couple, so I know exactly how long it takes,” she said. “I struggled to get her out in front of my leg, but she was such an honest horse. She picked up on the questions and takes care of it no matter where she is as long as I get her there and give her a decent ride.”

Sharon White: “He’s so much fun to ride, so it was definitely a good time. I think the time is just hard, but everyone is in the same boat, so it’s hard for everybody. I wouldn’t have wanted to go any faster on my horse. Mike ES said it best. He designed the course to have riders knock some cobwebs off, and that was perfect. It rode very well.”

Go eventing.

Red Hills International: WebsiteRide TimesLive ScoresEN’s Coverage, EN’s TwitterEN’s Instagram

 

 

 

Red Hills CCI4*-S/Advanced Cross Country Live Updates

The B element of fence 18 on the CCI4*-S course. Photo by Shems Hamilton/Red Hills.

5, 4, 3, 2, 1… GO! Have a great ride! Chinch is on site and ready for an exciting cross country day at the 2020 Red Hills International Horse Trials. While there is no live stream, EN will provide minute-by-minute updates of the CCI4*-S and Advanced classes right here. The four-star begins at 11:00 a.m. followed by the Advanced at 12:56 p.m.

The CCI4*-S track is 3795 meters to be run in 6 minutes and 29 seconds, but beating the clock is famously difficult here, so expect time penalties to be influential today. Check out our full course preview at this link.

Red Hills International: WebsiteRide TimesLive ScoresEN’s Coverage, EN’s TwitterEN’s Instagram

2:32 Here’s your top ten from both divisions. The CCI3*-S division has just gotten underway, stay tuned for reports later today!

 

1:55 Alyssa Phillips’ time as 7:06 — that puts her into the lead in the Advanced division with Oskar! Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous are currently second.

1:52 Will Coleman and Don Dante are hunting the fences. They’re clear through 18.

1:51 Clayton finishes clear with FE Stormtrooper.

1:50 Liz Halliday-Sharp zooms through the upper water with Flash Cooley.

1:49 Clayton Fredericks and FE Stormtrooper are clear through the upper water.

1:48 Marilyn Little finishes clear. We eagerly await their time.

1:44 We’ve got three left in the Advanced as Marilyn heads toward the finish.

1:42 Marylin Little and RF Scandalous are clear through 7.

1:38 Lucia Strini and MTF Cooley Classic have a stop at the Boathouse Water at fence 10C, the brush heading out of the water.

1:37 The force was with Meg and Anakin. They finish clear in a time of 7:55

1:33 Steph Cauffman is home clear with a time of 7:43. Meg Kep is clear so far through the upper water with Anakin.

1:30 Beautiful riding through the upper water for Steph Cauffman!

1:29 Jennie Brannigan lays down a clear round with Twilightslastgleam with a time of 7:12.

1:27 Steph Cauffman and Chatsworth Third Revolution are clear through the coffin.

1:25 Jennie Brannigan and Twilightslastgleam are the first out on course in the Advanced.

1:20 Brandon McMechan and Oscar’s Wild are our CCI4*-S leaders after cross country with the fastest trip of the day! Hallie Coon & Celien are second and Sharon White and Cooley On Show are third. The Advanced will start NOW with no break between divisions.

1:19 Jessica Phoenix finishes her fourth jumping clear of the day with Humble GS. Her time of 7:08 giver her a score of 48.2.

1:13 Last pair are on course! Here goes Jessica Phoenix and Humble GS.

1:12 Bobby Meyerhoff and Fotuna finish with a time of 6:54. They add 9.2 time penalties.

1:07 Gabby Ruane finishes clear with a time of 7:26 that gives her 22.8 time penalties.

1:00 Emily Hamel and Corvett go clear through the upper water. Gabby Ruane is on course now. 6th overnight, she’s the only one left who could go ahead of Brandon.

12:59 Leslie Law QC First Class finish clear with a time of 7:14
12:56 Jessica Phoenix is out on the course again with her fourth entry, Wabbit.

12:54 Karl finishes 33 seconds over the time.

12:52 Alex Green and Fernhill Limited Edition are clear through the Boathouse water  Karl Slezak is clear through the upper water at 18

12:48 Leah Lang-Gluscic and AP Prime retire at fence 17.
12:44 Kyle Carter and Reddy Or Not finish clear with a time of 7:25.

12:36 Third-placed Jennie Jarnstrom and Calicia C have scratched. Jennie had a fall earlier in the day, she is ok but out of caution withdrew this 4* ride.

12:31 Hallie Coon and Celien have finished clear! She finished 28 seconds over, just beating Sharon White, who was 32 seconds over. That puts her in second a score of 42.6  Brandon McMechan is our new leader!

12:30 Leslie Law and Voltaire de Tre Finish clear. They added 10.4 time penalties.

12:27 Caroline Martin and Islandwood Captain  Jack finish clear with time penalties added.

12:24 Chris Talley and Unmarked Bills finish clear with just five time penalties.

12:20 Jessica Phoenix has a stop with Bentley’s Best at the corner at 14B. She elects you retire.

12:16 Good riding from Jennie Brannigan. Bliss III takes a flier into the upper water.

12:12 Sharon White and Cooley On Show finish clear! They have a time of 7:01. That gives them 12.4 time penalties tentatively.

12:08 Ashley Kehoe finishes with a time of 7:47. Everyone is clear so far, but the time is once again proving difficult to achieve.

12:07 Overnight leaders Sharon White and Cooley On Show now on course!

12:06 Maya Black narrowly avoids disaster at the Boathouse Water. She comes out of the tack, but sticks the landing. Nice save!

12:05 Nilson da Silva finished 22 seconds over with a time of 6:51.

12:03 13th-placed Ashley Kehoe and Kiltealy Toss Up are clear through the double banks at Pebble Hill.

12:02 Brandon McMechan comes home clear with the fastest round of the day so far at 6:35

11:59 Brandon McMechan and Oscar’s Wild are clear through the upper water. Riders cross through this complex twice, and it’s riding well so far.

11:57 Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration are tearing around the course. They’re clear through 16 so far.

11:56 Bobby Meyerhoff finishes clear. He does have time penalties. Tentative time TBD.

11:53 Jessica and Pavarotti finish clear with a time of 7:05. That tentatively gives her 14.4 time penalites Bobby Meyerhoff and Albano are clear through the upper water at 18.

11:45 Jessica Phoenix kicks things off for the four-star group with Pavarotti. We are 45 minutes behind the schedule, but will continue to run horses at three minute intervals.

11:26 a.m. Due to holds during earlier divisions, we are running about 30 minutes behind. Stay tuned for an estimated 11:30 start time.

Tour the Red Hills CCI4*-S Cross Country Course

Pebble Hill, fence 10 ABC on the CCI4*-S course. Photo by Shems Hamilton/Red Hills.

It’s cross country day at Red Hills International Horse Trails and we have a very exciting lineup for you today. Mike Etherington-Smith returns for the fifth year as course designer for the CCI4*-S folks, laying out a test that will surely keep tailgaters on their toes all afternoon.

Exploring the magic of Elinor Klapp-Phipps Park, it’s easy to forget that we’re here for a competition. The flagged fences weave and dart through gorgeous, established Live Oaks dripping in Spanish Moss like garland hung for a year-round celebration. The park is maintained by the City of Tallahassee, Leon County and the Northwest Florida Water Management District, whose top crew has produced a fabulous surface for galloping.

The Big Leap In, fence 16. Photo by Shems Hamilton/Red Hills.

The entire track is 3795 meters to be run at a 570 meters per minute. There are 23 labeled fences and 35 jumping efforts. Riders will be aiming to come home in 6 minutes and 40 seconds, but the time is famously difficult here, with only five riders finding it possible in the event’s 21-year history. Last year, Selena O’Hanlon became the first to beat the clock three times.

The first of two angled tables jumping into the Boathouse Complex. Photo by Shems Hamilton/Red Hills.

This year’s course shares similarities with the 2019 edition, following it the same direction. For fence-by-fence insider tips,scroll down for a tour of the course from CrossCountry App featuring commentary from Mike ES. It also includes beautiful photos from Shems Hamilton, who has served as the fabulous volunteer photographer for Red Hills for many years. You can view all the Red Hills courses on CrossCountry App’s website.

The CCI4*-S cross country starts at 11:00 a.m. There is no live stream, but EN will be providing live updates, so tune in here for the minute-by-minute action.

Red Hills International: WebsiteRide TimesLive ScoresEN’s Coverage, EN’s TwitterEN’s Instagram

Marilyn Little Seeing 20/20 in Advanced + More From Dressage Day at Red Hills

Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous stepped into a familiar role today at the Red Hills International Horse Trials, leading a three-day event after the first phase. A score of 20 in the dressage, the best score all day across all divisions, has them topping the advanced.

“She’s great in this phase. We have our own goals that we’ve set for Kentucky, and this was very much a stepping stone on the path,” she said.

The 14-year-old Oldenburg (Carry Gold x Richardia, by Lario), owned by Ms. Jacqueline Mars and Phoebe and Michael Manders is aimed at Kentucky next month and this weekend is a key prep for all three phases.

“I rode her very conservatively today. I have to be able to train her on days like today, so for me to be able to ride conservatively, she has to think about discipline and exactly where she’s putting her feet,” Marilyn said. “She was quite fresh, but she was still a very different horse than she was two years ago. I’m looking forward to where she can be by April.”

Alyssa Phillips and Oskar. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Alyssa Phillips is second with Oskar, an 11-year-old Holsteiner owned by Alyssa and Julie Phillips. They laid down a 24.1. Oskar moved up to the Advanced level last fall at The Jockey Club, and he bested that dressage result by over 10 points today.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Flash Cooley. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Flash Cooley, an 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by Pru Dawes and Liz, are third on a score of 30.5.

Will Coleman and Don Dante are fourth on a score of 31.1, and Clayton Fredericks is fifth with FE Stormtrooper on a score of 31.6.

More you need to know:

The CCI3*-S is headed up by Robin Walker aboard SBT Barolo, a 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by Robin Walker, Roger Schramm and Alston Kerr. Their 28.3 was unmatched throughout the division.

Kyle Carter is second with Gaillards Lancer on a score of 28.6, and Rebecca Brown sits third with Dassett Choice on an even 30.

Jonathan Holling leads the Open Preliminary division with Kilkenny Mile. They earned a 20.8, and held the record for lowest score of the day until they were usurped by Marilyn and “Kitty.”

Cross country kicks off here in Tallahassee tomorrow with the Preliminary riders beginning at 8:30 a.m. Here’s a schedule:

Preliminary: 8:30 – 9:20 a.m.
CCI2*-S: 9:24-10:34 a.m.
CCI4*-S: 11 a.m. – 12:50 p.m.
Advanced: 12:56 – 1:32 p.m.
CCI3*-S: 2 – 3:24 p.m.
Intermediate: 3:24 – 4:04 p.m.

Go eventing.

Red Hills International: WebsiteRide TimesLive ScoresEN’s Coverage, EN’s TwitterEN’s Instagram

Red Hills: Sharon White & Hallie Coon Tied at Top of CCI4*-S

Hallie Coon and Celien. Photo by Shelby Allen.

It’s a battle of the best at the 2020 Red Hills International Horse Trails in Tallahassee, Florida, where not not one, but two riders share the leading role of the CCI4*-S division after dressage. Sharon White and Hallie Coon sit on an equal result of 31.4.

Like any good perfectionist, Hallie is pleased with her result, but yearns for even more magic on the flat this season with longtime partner Celien, a 13-year-old KWPN mare (Tenerife VDL x R Quicksilver, by Hamlet) owned by Hallie & Helen Coon

“She lit up in there a little. She spooked in her first walk pirouette, which she hardly ever spooks. I was a little unhappy with moments, but I think the rideability and the connection is getting better. Hopefully in the future we will be able to focus more. She was just very exuberant, but you can’t hardly ever be mad at her she’s such a good girl,” she said.

Sharon White and Cooley On Show. Photo by Shelby Allen.

The always affable Sharon White says this weekend is about enjoying the ride with her Cooley On Show or “Louie.” Sharon says the 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Ricardo x Jogantina, by Grand D’Espange) was very “genuine” and that dressage is very much a sport of inches, and today’s focus was on the journey and always getting just a bit better. Tomorrow, she says, is about having fun.

“I will enjoy the horse. I think footing is perfect. The rain yesterday is made it ideal for, us so I will let him have fun. It will be a good day to let him go shed a few pounds,” she laughed.

Breaking the tie will first come down to cross country time penalties. Assuming both riders finish clear, whoever is closest to the optimum time will advance in the standings, so must be both quick and cognizant of the clock.

Jennie Jarnstrom and Calicia Z. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Jennie Jarnstrom was all smiles with her own Calicia Z after their test produced a score of 32.2 for second place. The 9-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare (Papillon Z x Cassidy, by Perell) is a second generation homebred for Jennie, making today’s success even sweeter.

“She was born right at my house,” Jennie said proudly. Her mother bred the sire, Papillion, and Jennie brought him over from Sweden to breed with the mare Cassidy in the states.

Jessica Phoenix wins the award for busiest rider this weekend. She has five — yes five — horses entered in the CCI4*-S class. She is fourth with Humble GS (32.6), fifth with her own Pavarotti (33.3), seventh with Bentley’s Best (34.4), ninth with Watson GS (34.7), and 29th with Wabbit (43.9).

Gabrielle Ruane and Lismakeera Brewski. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Gabrielle Ruane is sixth with her own Lismakeera Brewski, an 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Carlo Bank x Droum Bridge Lass, by Kahtan). This duo, who moved up to the four-star level last year, earned a new personal best of 34.3 in their blossoming experience at this level.

Pretty in pink, Charlotte Collier piloted her own Clifford M into eighth place. She and the 14-year-old Holsteiner earned 34.5 — an eight point improvement on their debut at the level last November.

Kyle Carter and Reddy or Not. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Riding for Canada, Kyle Carter rounds out the top ten. He sits on an even 35 points with Reddy or Not, an 11-year-old Trakehner (Oskar II x Raven Riley, by Windfall).

Jennie Brannigan and Bliss III. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Looking down the leaderboard, Jennie Brannigan is 11th with Bliss III on a score of 35.4, Emily Hamel and Corvett are 12th with 35.6 points, and Ashley Kehoe and Kiltealy Toss Up sit 13th on a score of 35.7.

Leslie Law and Voltaire De Tre. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Leslie Law and Voltaire De Tre take 14th with their score of 35.8, and Holly Jacks-Smither and Candy King earned a 36.5 for 15th place.

Cross country four the CCI4*-S division kicks off at 11 a.m. tomorrow. While there is not live stream, we will be doing live updates on EN. Stay tuned for all the latest.

Red Hills International: WebsiteRide TimesLive ScoresEN’s Coverage, EN’s TwitterEN’s Instagram

 

 

#EventerProblems Vol. 217, Presented by Haygain: Leap Day Every Day

View this post on Instagram

#eventerproblems #eventersofinstagram #humble

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“Why wait every four years to leap in the air?” — horses everywhere.

We know you guys didn’t need to be reminded to celebrate Leap Day. Here’s your latest roundup of #EventerProblems to celebrate:

Haygain is a science driven company with the horse’s health as the primary focus.

We are committed to improving equine health through scientific research, product innovation and consumer education in respiratory and digestive health. Developed by riders, for riders, we understand the importance of clean forage and a healthy stable environment in maintaining the overall well-being of the horse.

Our Haygain hay steamers are recommended by the world’s leading riders, trainers and equine vets and ComfortStall® Sealed Orthopedic Flooring System is used and recommended by leading Veterinary Hospitals, including Cornell University.

Wednesday News & Notes

Bruce Davidson hunting with Orange County. Photo by Liz Callar.

Look who was out hunting this week! The legendary Bruce Davidson took a spin with the Orange County Hounds from South Hollow. Please join me in this surge of jealousy that I’m not out hunting today!

National Holiday: National Hospitalist Day

U.S. Weekend Preview: 

Red Hills International H.T. (FL) [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Full Gallop Farm March H.T. (SC) [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Southern Pines H.T. (NC) [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Wednesday News: 

Relentless Pursuit is being celebrated as the USEA’s Horse of the Month for March. At 24, he’s been eventing for 19 years. You might recognize him from his two appearances at the Kentucky Three Day Event with Dana Widstrand, but most recently he finished second at the Ocala Winter I H.T. in the Preliminary Rider division with Amanda Gardiner [USEA Horse of the Month: Relentless Pursuit]

US Equestrian is looking for their next President. Nominations are now open for the 2021-2025 term. Nominees must meet certain criteria, including serving on the US Equestrian Board of Directors within the last six years. [US Equestrian Now Seeking Presidential Nominations for 2021-2025 Presidential Term]

At least $75,000 have been fundraised for the implementation of frangible technology since Monday. A GoFundMe effort launched on Monday, Frangible Fences for Eventing in US, has already raised over $60,000; another $15,000 has been raised by the USEA’s Frangible Fence Research initiative. The goal is $500,000, so let’s keep the donations coming! [GoFundMe] [USEA Frangible Fund] [Update from Jon Holling]

Enjoy the Carolina International CCI and H.T. (March 19-22, 2020) as a Carolina Club member! Different levels of membership offer different levels of access including reserved tables, parking passes, program recognition, prime viewing and more. Cross country tailgate packages are also available. [Carolina Club Tickets] [Tailgate Passes]

Wednesday Social Media:

It's time to send in those entries!Plantation Field Horse TrialsSporting Days FarmRiver Glen Equestrian ParkHolly…

Posted by United States Eventing Association, Inc. (USEA) on Tuesday, March 3, 2020

Tuesday Video from Flexible Fit Equestrian USA: GPE at Bruce’s Field on Demand

If you missed any of the action from the $50,000 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up every second of the coverage from EQTV Network, so you can watch it right here on demand.

We’d like to give a huge thank you to the team at EQTV for their brilliant wall-to-wall coverage! Click here to catch up on all the EN coverage from Aiken.

Go eventing.

Grand Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field: WebsiteResultsLive StreamEN’s Coverage, EN’s TwitterEN’s Instagram

An Interview with Liz Halliday-Sharp: 

Congratulations to @lizhallidaysharp on her win at the @grandprix_eventing showcase today!

Posted by EQTV Network on Saturday, February 29, 2020

Cross Country: 

Cross Country from the 2020 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce's Field. Watch the Aiken Eventing Showcase live and on demand at EQTVNetwork.com.

Posted by EQTV Network on Saturday, February 29, 2020

Show Jumping: 

Show Jumping at the 2020 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce's Field! Watch the Aiken Eventing Showcase live and on demand at EQTVNetwork.com.

Posted by EQTV Network on Friday, February 28, 2020

Dressage:

We’re back after the lunch break for the 2020 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce's Field, with Dressage Part 2. Watch the Aiken Eventing Showcase live and on demand at EQTVNetwork.com.

Posted by EQTV Network on Friday, February 28, 2020

2020 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce's Field Dressage Part 1. Watch the Aiken Eventing Showcase live and on demand at EQTVNetwork.com.

Posted by EQTV Network on Friday, February 28, 2020

Flexible Fit Equestrian: Redefining Comfort & Quality at an Affordable Price. Learn more at www.ffequestrian.com.au

$20K Ocala Horse Properties Eventing Prix Live Updates: A Hat Trick for Will Coleman!

It is once again time for the $20K Ocala Horse Properties Eventing Prix Invitational held at Max Corcoran and Scott Keach’s beautiful Southern Cross Equestrian in Ocala, Florida. Today we look forward to watching 34 talented pairs take on Chris Barnard’s 1.30m track.

Consider this your base camp for all the action today. We’ve got the live stream included abocve and we’ll be running by the minute updates, so keep refreshing this page for the latest. You can find the entries/order of go at this link.

Of course you can also watch the action live thanks to EQTV. The action starts at 2 p.m.

4:12 Well done Will Coleman! Here’s the tentative standings:

1st: Will Coleman & TKS Cooley

2nd: Karl Slezak & Fernhill Wishes

3rd: Mia Farley & BGS Firecracker

4th: Collen Loach & FE Golden Eye

5th: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Quicksilver

6th: Lauren Nicholson & Paramount Importance

4:11 Colleen has just the one rail and a time of 41.420.

4:11 Colleen takes down the second fence. Will has officially won this thing for the third time!

4:10 Final rider in the ring. Here goes Colleen Loach.

4:10 They also drop the front rail on the final fence. Their time is 42.818.

4:09 The angle catches them out at fence two and the rail falls.

4:09 Rebecca Brown starts out at breakneck speed. Here we go!

4:08 Monster takes down the back rail of the in and out. They finish with the four jump faults in a time of 44.438.

4:07 Liz Halliday-Sharp is next up. Can she beat Will?

4:06 Mia takes a risky inside turn to the fourth element, but they take down the back rail with a back leg. Her time is 41.400.

4:06 BGS Firecracker has a lot of opinions today! The two are flying.

4:05 Let’s go Mia Farley!

4:04 Dang, Allie pushes for it but misses at the brown oxer and takes it down. They only have that one rail and a time of 45.547.

4:04 Here goes Allie Knowles and Ms. Poppins. She slices to the second fence and gets very lucky.

4:03 A clear for Will!! The time to beat is officially 42.258. He’s put the pressure on.

4:02 He’s clear throught he EquiJets fence

4:02 Will Coleman and TKS Cooley won here last year. Can they do it again?

4:01 Ultimately three come down for Hallie Coon. She has those 12 jump penalties in addition to a time of 42.793.

4:01 The brown owner (7) also falls for Hallie

4:00 Hallie Coon started off all rockets, but she paid the price by taking the rail over fence 1.

3:59 Karl Slezak also falls victim to the EquiJets vertical. He finishes with just the one rail and a time of 41.073.

3:58 One comes down for Lauren — the EquiJets vertical. Her time is 45.615.

3:57 Lauren looks like she’s opting to take more direct lines, but not increase the speed too much. Let’s see if it pays off.

3:57 Let’s go Lauren! She and Paramount Importance head for the first one.

3:56 Dang. Sharon has another fall. That’s 8 jump penalties in a time of 44.832.

3:55 The rail for fence 7 (5th fence of the jump off) falls.

3:54 Here we go! The jump off is underway. Sharon White and Claus 63 are first up. Time allowed is 50 seconds, but really this is fastest wins.

3:37 Here’s who you can expect in the jump off: Colleen Loach, Rebecca Brown, Karl Slezak, Allie Knowles, Liz Halliday-Sharp, Mia Farley, Will Coleman, Lauren Nicholson, Hallie Coon, and Sharon White. We’re on a break now then we will be underway again!

3:36 Collen makes it happen to jump clear! She’s the final rider added to the jump off.

3:35 Colleen is working for it! FE Golden Eye has a spook in him today.

3:34 Here’s our final pair: Colleen Loach and Fe Golden Eye

3:34 We’ve got another coming to the jump off! Great round for Rebecca Brown and Dasset Choice.

3:32 Leslie Law sees two rails fall during his round with Voltare de Tre

3:29 Liz goes clear in a blazing 72.228. That’s good enough for second place at the moment.

3:29 Liz and Monster are flying! This lady does not go to school, she goes to win.

3:28 Fresh off her win at Bruce’s Field, Liz Halliday-Sharp is on course with Cooley Quicksilver.

3:27 Charlotte finishes with two down and four time penalties.

3:25 Charlotte Collier and Clifford M look pretty in pink! They’re clear so far, but they rubbed fence 3.

3:25 Holly has only the one down with a time of 73.2 for 13th place at the moment.

3:23 Holly Jacks Smither and More Inspiration drop a rail at fence four, a vertical.

3:22 Bummer about the one fence down. She has a time of  77.981.

3:22 The oxer at seven falls. They just got a little too much momentum coming toward it.

3:21 Alyssa picks back up and goes clear over fence three. It’s a big oxer to take after a break.

3:20 Whoops, fence three falls as Alyssa jumps over two. The bell rings as they reset it.

3:19 Caroline finishes clear with two time penalties, so she won’t be in the jump off. Now let’s welcome Alysa Phillips and Oskar.

3:17 Next up is Caroline Martin. They’ve rubbed a few from the start, but so far clear.

3:17 Mia is now the seventh person to join the jump off group after a beautiful round.

3:15 We are back on track. Mia Farley and BGS Firecracker get the final group started. They’re clear through six.

3:07 We’re on another drag break and then we will have 10 more pairs to jump.

3:05 Beautiful, beautiful effort from Allie! She moves on to the jump off. Their time of 70.761 seconds is also the fastest clear so far — keep your eye on her for the jump off!

3:04 Allie Knowles and Ms. Poppins have just a little rub on the first fence, but she’s certainly got her foot on the pedal today.

3:02 Jennie Brannigan and Ibella jump clear, but a time of 78.1 keeps them out of the jump off. Those two time penalties were expensive.

3:01 Two came down for Melissa. They had a time of 71.052.

3:01 Weeeee! Jalando takes a long one to the oxer at 7.

2:59 Melissa Boutin EWSZ Jalando are off and clear through three.

2:58 The plank fence comes down for Elisa. What a bummer. They had a time of 74.222.

2:57 I hear some big cheers for Elisa Wallace and Simply Priceless.

2:56 That’s a shame — they take the rail at the oxer at 7. That was their only fault. Their time of 71.377 is the fastest four-faulter, so they could be in the money. They’re sixth at the moment.

2:55 From Canada, now we welcome Shelby Brost and Crimson. They’re clear over the first two, which have proved a little tricky so far today. Fence two is a vertical that heads straight toward the VIP tent.

2:54 Abigail carries on.  She takes a few more rails down with her, but I have to say she certainly kept riding better and better as she went. As Jon Holling said, “she will definitely learn something from this today.”

2:53 Abigail has three rails fall before having a stop at the middle element at the triple. They got a bit close to the first element, and couldn’t quite make up the distance.

2:51 Abigail Niles is now starting with Carrick Finest Lad.

2:51 Dang — Clayton taps fence 13 the EquiJets vertical.

2:50 Clayton opts to add an extra stride ahead of the liverpool at 6, which has been a popular choice among these riders.

2:48 Now we have Australian rider Clayton Fredericks in the ring with a pretty perfect shot into fence 1.

2:48 A clear round for Will Coleman puts them in the lineup for the jump off.

2:47 That was a close call at fence two. TKS Cooley is definitely giving some air time!

2:45 Here’s a big round: defending champions Will Coleman and TKS Cooley. He’s just taking a little walk around the arena because wind has blown over fence 11. He will start after it’s reset.

2:44 Kimmy Cecere and Lankmark’s Monaco knock the rail on fence 2, but have an otherwise lovely round.

2:43 It’s been a while since we saw a clear round, but remember: after those in the jump off are placed, the standings will go to the four-faulters who are the fastest. So far Sara Murphy is the fastest of those with one rail.

2:42 Bummer! The rail on 13 — a vertical — is knocked for Meg and Anakin.

2:41 Meg Kepferle has a lovely start with the Thoroughbred Anakin. They’re clear so far through fence 4.

2:39 Oof the planks ahead of the triple at fence 5 come down. We will not see our past winner in the jump off. Sara did come in at 72.8 seconds, so it looks like the time is being pretty easily achieved by this bunch today.

2:38 Sara Kozumplik Murphy trots around the ring now with the gorgeous Rubens D’Ysieux.

2:38 Shannon looks thrilled with her horse. It was a lovely effort with just the one unlucky rail.

2:37 Fence number three, the Buckeye oxer falls when they drift ever so slightly to the right.

2:35 We’re just finished with the drag break, and now we welcome Shannon Baker and Balligowen Zeal.

2:28 We’re on a drag break now. So far we have four going to the jump off: Sharon White, Lauren Nicholson, Karl Slezak and Hallie Coon.

2:26 Hallie Coon comes in just under the time. She jumped clear in 76.067 seconds.

2:25 Hallie Coon got a little lucky at the second one. This pair might be a littler close to the time.

2:23 Kylie Lyman took down the last vertical in the triple to add four faults with Da Vinci Code.

2:21 That will be a time of 75.996 for Michael, but one falling keeps him out of the jump off.

2:20 Irish pair Michael Nolan SRS Picasso are now starting.

2:19 Two down drops Sinead from the jump off, but her time of 73.5 is good.

2:18 Now we welcome Sinead Maynard and Cutty Sark

2:17 Jessie makes the time, coming in at 74.433, but does take one down.

2:17 Next up, Jessica Phoenix and Watson GS for Canada.

2:16 Ariel Aharoni and Dutch Times put in a beautiful effort, but just knock the middle down in the triple.

2:13 They drop on pesky rail, so they’ll be out of the jump off, but their time of 73.082 is good.

2:12 New mother Ellie O’Neal is in great form with Zick Zack.

2:10 Riding for Canada, Karl Slezak also has a clear round.

2:08 Lauren will advance to the jump off after a clear round.

2:07 Lauren Nicholson is in now Paramount Importance.

2:05 p.m. Second rider Anna Loschiavo has come out of the tack after a miscommunication with Fernhill That Guy Jack. She gets caught in the stirrup but thankfully both separate without issue.

2:04 p.m. Sharon had a foot perfect round. She finished with a time of 74.69, well inside the time of 77 seconds.

2:03 p.m. Beautifully done through the triple for Sharon. This one is set on a one stride to a one stride making it a bit more difficult.

2:00 p.m. First up we have Sharon White and Claus 63. It’s looking very windy in Ocala!

1:30 p.m. Here’s the entries:

Who Jumped It Best? GPE at Bruce’s Field Edition

It’s time for another round of Who Jumped It Best? This edition takes us to Aiken, S.C. for the Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field. We caught a few of the finishers over fence 15, the Hitchcock Woods Memorial Gate.

Now you get to be the judge. Put on your equitation hat and decide which horse and rider present the best overall picture by voting in the poll at the bottom of this post.

Grand Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field: WebsiteRide TimesLive ScoresTicketsLive StreamEN’s Coverage, EN’s TwitterEN’s Instagram

Will Faudree and Caeleste. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Mike Pendleton and Steadie Eddie Photo by Shelby Allen.

Phillip Dutton and Z. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Anna Loschiavo and Spartacus Q. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feeds

Photo via Kat Morel’s Facebook Page.

If you spend any time reading EN today (aside from this News & Notes post) I implore you to give Maggie Deatrick’s ‘A Plea for Transparency‘ a read. Let’s keep pushing and fighting to keep this sport safe and sustainable.

“USEF, USEA, can you hear us? Are you investigating? Are you looking into these deaths behind closed doors? Is our sport learning anything from these deaths? And if we are, will you please let us also learn?

I know nothing about what led to the deaths of these women. I cannot learn from their tragedies and cannot take measures to ensure that I do not share their fate for the same reasons. I do not know if there is a common thread or if each died due to different factors.

I might be making the same mistakes. I might die because of them.

Please let me learn, so that I might not become one of these women.”

Go eventing.

National Holiday: National Mulled Wine Day

Events Opening This Week: Sporting Days Farm April H.T. III, River Glen Spring H.T.Holly Hill H.T.Fresno County Horse Park H.T.St. Johns H.T.Plantation Field April H.T.

Events Closing This Week: Carolina International CCI and H.T.Horse Trials at Majestic OaksPoplar Place Farm March H.T.Southern Arizona H.T.

Tuesday News: 

The latest USEA podcast is out! Listen here: [USEA Podcast #252: Marching in on the Season]

This horse is definitely up on the latest fashions. As you know, big sunnies are in. [Behind The Photo: Cool Shades Bro]

Hot on Horse Nation: Forging New Paths: Morehouse College Forms Polo Club

Tuesday Video: Some footage from Twin:

Nupafeed Weekend Winners: Twin Rivers, Rocking Horse, Chatt Hills & Sporting Days

Photo courtesy of Callan Littrell.

We’re extremely proud of the dozens of y’all who earned blue ribbons, but my friend Callan Littrell deserves a special shout out. She won the Open Beginner Novice division this weekend at Chattahoochee Hills with her own Thoroughbred Seeking the Storm on a score of 31.4. “Declan” as he’s called around the barn is a talented guy, but he certainly has a mind of his own — and a buck that give you whiplash only watching it. Callan has put in considerable work to make sure Declan loves the job, and this is an example of good, consistent training paying off.

Also this week, let’s congratulate Meghan Lewis and Rayastrada. They are our low score winners this week after finishing the Twin Rivers Sr. Training Rider division on an incredible 16.7. Well done!

Twin River Winter H.T. [Website] [Results]

Advanced: Frankie Thieriot Stutes & Chatwin (27.8)
Open Intermediate: Lauren Billys & Castle Larchfield Purdy (28.2)
Jr/Y.R. Open Preliminary: Bruce Hill & Bossinova (28.5)
Open Preliminary: Lauren Burnell Freedom Hill (24.1)
Preliminary Rider: India McEvoy E’zara (29.8)
Jr. Training Rider: Payton Piearcy Liam’s Guinness (21.9)
Open Training: Jordan Linstedt Staccato (21.2)
Sr. Training Amateur: Leslie LaBraque Falkonet (34.5)
Sr. Training Rider: Sara Kelson Rhonaldo (20.4)
Training Horse: Amber Levine Keep Calm (26.4)
Jr. Novice Rider A: Emily Schmitz greenfort othello (27.2)
Jr. Novice Rider B: Sophia Merz Clara Bö (24.6)
Novice Horse: Lisa Peecook Twister (29.5)
Open Novice: Robyn Fisher Livdon (26.2)
Sr. Novice Amateur: Matthew Walley Cassiopeia (20.7)
Sr. Novice Rider: Meghan Lewis Rayastrada (16.7)
Jr. Beg. Novice Rider: Elsa Warble Fleeceworks Emerald (29.7)
Open Beginner Novice: Auburn Excell Brady Confetti 42 (20.8)
Sr. Beg. Novice Rider : Amy Luca Saturday Sun (30.8)
Introductory: Edie Halloran Triple Spice (30.8)

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I’m over the moon about today! Miss Rizzo and I took home the blue after finishing on our dressage score 🥳💕 Rizzo was more than perfect the whole time and we had such a great first experience/show together! 🍀👑 Thank you to @rbriding and @ash.worth for everything !! I’m gonna miss Florida so very much but it’s time to head back home to Texas 😢 (It was so great to see @eliza_eventing_ @adsequestrian @skyler.eventing @amg_eventing @ktm.eventing this weekend🤍) #averysdoitbest #fernhillsporthorses #fernhilltickthebox #ride4ashley #ride4grady #frscheckitoutnow #sprinkleofpixiedust #rbriding #fernhillfierce #areav #areaiii #rideforkatharine #rideforkatharineandkerryon ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ @polos_over_bros Avery17 for 15% off🎊 @ellanyequestrian Avery10 for 10% off!💛 @msvids_ ambassador☑️ @thepamperedponytreats sponsor 🛍

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Not a single day goes by that I don’t think to myself how insanely lucky I am for the horses that I’m surrounded by, and the people that own them. For anyone who sends a horse to me and trusts me to care for, ride, compete, or sell, I want to do the absolute best job possible. I am not the best there is, but I will always do my very very best, and to the people who believe in and trust me with their animals, thank you. Heath, Bram, and Hank are all three owned by three amazing women who love them dearly. All three were fabulous this weekend, and came away more educated and confident. Heath , who is owned by Jane-Ashe Gailmard, my fairy godmother, absolutely blows me away. I respect his bravery and athleticism so much, and consider it such a privilege to be sat on him. He is the most kind soul, and tries his heart out for me 110% of the time. He was his usual trusty self this weekend giving me such good experience XC, showing me what it feels like to ride a bold, forward, and confident horse. We have some super exciting plans for him coming up! He is so much fun. Bram, who is owned by Teana Costa Phillips, had his first outing in a long time, and completely crushed it!! His scored well on the flat, jumped a super clear show jumping, and gave me the best feeling XC completing his weekend in a super competitive division on his dressage score! This boy is for sale, and ready to win the JR or SR novice and training divisions, and go preliminary with the right rider! This boy has endless scope and potential, with a wonderful brain to match. Hank, who is owned by Rachel Ford, had an extremely educational weekend at his first ever event. He was cool as a cucumber the entire weekend, and came away much more educated than when he arrived at the show! He might be green, but his talent and ability is absolutely endless. Someone who wants talent, ability, scope, and a brain, on a low budget, is going to hit the jack pot on this one.

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Rocking Horse III H.T. [Website] [Results]

Advanced/Intermediate: Leslie Law & Lady Chatterley (37.1)
Open Intermediate A:  Leslie Law & Tout De Suite (40.2)
Open Intermediate B: Marilyn Little & RF Scandalous (39)
Open Intermediate (Friday) A: Sara Kozumplik Murphy & Devil Munchkin (30.9)
Open Intermediate (Friday) B: Elisa Wallace & Simply Priceless (34.6)
Open Preliminary: Hannah Sue Burnett & Harbour Pilot (22.5)
Open Preliminary (Friday) A: Jonathan Holling & Prophet (26.7)
Open Preliminary (Friday) B: Kendyl Tracy & Bobbie Burns (24.2)
Preliminary Horse: Leslie Law & Typically Fernhill (27.6)
Preliminary Rider A: Kiersten Miller & Mama Mia (33.2)
Preliminary Rider B: Lauren Chumley & Atlanta B (32.9)
Jr. Training Rider: Kylie Strate & Supah Cool (29.1)
Open Training A: Jane Stephenson & Ballymoyle Pilot (27.1)
Open Training B:  Jennifer Brannigan & VFE Soldier’s Salute (25.2)
Open Training C: Leslie Law & Shirsheen Ice (28.9)
Sr. Training Rider A: Tracey Corey & Byrnwyck West (28.6)
Sr. Training Rider B: Lea Adams-Blackmore & Fernhill Frostbite (29.8)
Training Horse A: Caroline Martin & Farfadet De Barbereau (29.1)
Training Horse B: Beth Murphy & Jimba (29.2)
Training Horse C: Lesley Grant-Law & Fernhill Finalist (32.2)
Jr. Novice Rider: Avery Daigle & Fernhill Fierce (32.4)
Novice Horse A: William Hoos & L.B Avenue (24.5)
Novice Horse B: Madeleine Richards & Donail Arco Bennett (28.8)
Open Novice A: Rebecca Hoos & Ramble On (34.3)
Open Novice B: Sarah Main & Isaac GS (26)
Sr. Novice Rider A: Kristin Osley & King of Beer (32.9)
Sr. Novice Rider B: Sofie Van Olmen & Highlife’s Je T’aime (31.2)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider: Emma Miklos & Gun Slingin’ Bully (31.3)
Open Beginner Novice A: Madeline Backus & Title Contender (30.5)
Open Beginner Novice B: Meghan O’Donoghue Wrocket Man (26.5)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider A: Morgan Scudder & Rossini (29)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider B: Amy Fowler & Ginnetts Manricko (29)

Chattahoochee Hills H.T. [Website] [Results]

Open Intermediate: Kim Severson & Cooley Cross Border (27.4)
Open Preliminary: Werner Geven & MSH Cooley Twilight (36)
Preliminary Rider: Danielle Bolte & Diamond n the Rough (30.4)
Modified: Julie Richards & Fernhill Fifth Avenue (32.5)
Open Training: Sallie Johnson & Fernhill Copas (22.4)
Training Rider: Alison Kroviak & Dolce (30.2)
Novice Rider A: Lilli Wichert & Fernhill Tito (28.6)
Novice Rider B: Tessa Geven & Tullymor’s Houdini (29.3)
Open Novice: Mary Bess Davis & Imperio Magic (29.9)
Beginner Novice Rider: Olivia Moore & Kubota (28.3)
Open Beginner Novice: Callan Littrell & Seeking the Storm (31.4)

Sporting Days Farm March H.T. [Website] [Results]

Open Preliminary A: Kevin Keane & HH Ontario (28.3)
Open Preliminary B: Boyd Martin & Miss LuLu Herself (27.2)
Preliminary Horse: Matthew Kidney & Social Network LLWB (30)
Preliminary Rider A: Leah Vrieling & Glendening Avis (33)
Preliminary Rider B: Cassie Plumb Vagabon de Champdoux (31.5)
Open Training A: Allison Springer Sir Duke (23.4)
Open Training B: Ryan Wood & Ben Nevis (25)
Preliminary/Training: Katherine Knowles & Cillnabradden Ceonna (25.5)
Training Horse A: Caitlin Silliman & Aspen KD (25.7)
Training Horse B:  Morgan Batton & Jamaican Vacation (25.5)
Training Rider A: Barbara Fitch & Donte (33.8)
Training Rider B:  Elizabeth Weick Bit of Gold (29.6)
Novice Horse: Marty Riney & Geroge Alexander (25.5)
Novice Rider A: Kathleen Bertuna & Excel Star Harry (26.9)
Novice Rider B: Jennifer Achilles & Excel Star Lance (25.5)
Novice Rider C: Grace Mykityshyn & Lusi (32.1)
Open Novice A: Julie Cayer & Great Moments (33.8)
Open Novice B: Madison Smith & Spiritual Advisor (31.2)
Beginner Novice Horse: Adalee Ladwig & Argenta MSF (29.3)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Catherine Dennehy Fenian (32.5)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Mary Bancroft & Twain (28.8)
Open Beginner Novice:  Maya Kozauer & Rhapsody in Red (26.3)

 

Sunday Links from One K Helmets

Sara Gumbiner and Polaris. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Today is a hard day. I didn’t personally know Katharine, but my heart goes out to her loved ones. Us eventers all share a common love of horses — a love that connects us all. We lost one of our own yesterday. Please join me in sending condolences to Katharine’s tribe. Hug your friends. Hug your ponies.

National Holiday: National Minnesota Day

Grand Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field: WebsiteLive ScoresEntry StatusTicketsLive StreamEN’s CoverageEN’s InstagramEN’s Twitter

U.S. Weekend Action:

Twin River Winter H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Rocking Horse III H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Chattahoochee Hills H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Sporting Days Farm March H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Sunday Links: 

Tokyo Talk: Five Months to Go

Halliday-Sharp Takes Her Second $50,000 LiftMaster Grand Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field Title

Mark Todd to don jockey silks for Irish challenge race

Lyle Enters 80 Percent Club With CDI4* Grand Prix Special Win At AGDF

Coronavirus Raises Questions About 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games

Tears as Thug the €1 showjumper saved from slaughter reunited with former rider

Grand-Prix Eventing kicks off with Martin and Tsetserleg leading the way

Sunday Video: The Horsepesterer caught footage of Marilyn Little and Kitty this weekend:

Katharine Morel Dies in Cross Country Accident at Rocking Horse H.T.

Katharine Morel and Kerry On. Photo by Lisa Madren.

We are devastated to report that Canadian eventer Katharine Morel died today in a cross country accident at Rocking Horse Winter III H.T. in Altoona, Florida. She and her horse, Kerry On, an 8-year-old Thoroughbred mare, fell at fence 8 in the Open Intermediate B division. Kerry On did not survive the accident.

The USEA released the following statement:

“It is with our deepest regret that we announce Katharine Morel and her 8-year-old Thoroughbred mare Kerry On suffered a rotational fall at fence eight of the Intermediate level cross-country course while competing at the Rocking Horse Stables Winter III Horse Trials on February 29, 2020. The horse suffered fatal injuries and passed shortly after the fall. The rider was immediately transported by Lake County EMS to a local hospital where she later succumbed to her injuries. The United States Eventing Association, Rocking Horse Stables Organizing Committee, and competition officials send our deepest condolences and sympathies to the family and friends of Katharine Morel.”

Katharine and Kerry On placed 4th in their Open Intermediate division at Rocking Horse Winter II H.T. earlier this month. Katharine was 33 years old.

EN extends our condolences to Katharine’s family and friends in this very difficult time.

[Horse and Rider Fatalities at Rocking Horse Winter III H.T.]

 

Liz Halliday-Sharp Claims Back-to-Back Wins in $50k Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Defending champion Liz Halliday-Sharp felt the pressure when she left the start box at the $50,000 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field. After overnight leader Boyd Martin withdrew, the inaugural winner had no one to beat but herself on the cross country. Partnered with Deniro Z, she went 2-0 at the Aiken, S.C. venue.

“That’s how I wanted it to be,” Liz smiled of her back-to-back wins. “We have such a great partnership, and he’s such a good friend of mine as well. He was just magic. The horse just keeps getting better. He’s so adjustable this year, so I didn’t feel like I was going crazy. I galloped fast in between, but I never felt like I was taking a risk. I didn’t have any fences that weren’t as I planned, so that’s super when you can still set them up a little, but you’re still that far under the time. He’s just a great horse. It’s a pleasure to be here riding him.

Starting the weekend in third place, she and the 12-year-old KWPN (Zapatero VDL x Zonne-Trend, by French Buffet xx) owned by Ocala Horse Properties and The Deniro Syndicate, moved up after each phase, finally securing the win on their dressage score of 31.1.

“You always feel pressure when you’re in the lead. I knew the time was tight but I didn’t think it was quite as tight as Wellington because some people were way under, so it sort of felt like if I was smart I’d be inside the time, but you never know. It was a tough enough course to ride,” she said. Coming in fifteen seconds under the time, the duo were also the fastest combination of the day.

“It’s a lot of fun here because you’ve got to zoom through the different arenas, so it’s a very different feel to running through Wellington. I think the course was a bit stronger this year than last year, which is cool. I think it’s good for all of us. Certainly the show jumping was a real test for all of us, which we all need to do: to be put out of our comfort zone and under pressure, and that’s why we come to these things,” she said.

Phillip Dutton and Z. Photo by Shelby Allen.

U.S. Eventing legend Phillip Dutton produced two double clear rounds aboard both Z and Fernhill Singapore to earn second and third place, respectively.

Fernhill Singapore, an 11-year-old KWPN (Sinapore x Riedellia, by Animo) owned by Ann Jones, Thomas Tierney and David Vos, was first to go. He jumped clear to finish on a score of 33.1.

With the intel from his first ride, Phillip made easy work of his second attempt with The Z Partnership’s 12-year-old Zangersheide (Asca X Bellabouche, by Babouche VH Gehucht Z). He and his World Equestrian Games partner eight seconds inside the time to close their weekend out on 32.6 points.

“You can only deal with what happens on the day and they both went well. I thought Liz rode beautifully so it was a good finish. It rode a bit quicker than I expected, we had to go a little bit faster than we did in Florida but it’s a little bit later in the year so that’s good,” he said. “I’ll probably go out a little slower next time and get them back to settling down but I think it’s been a huge success for the sport and for the town; it brings a lot of new people, and people that get to see the sport this way and I think it’s pretty exciting having it in reverse order.”

Will Faudree and Caeleste. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Will Faudree and Jennifer Mosing & Sterling Silver Stables’ 13-year-old Holsteiner (Contender x Happygolucky, by Lucky Lionel) Caeleste took four place. The pair rocketed around Capt. Mark Phillips’ track inside the time for a finish on 33.6 points.

Lauren Nicholson and Veronica. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Dressage winners Lauren Nicholson and Veronica, an 18-year-old KWPN (Pacific x Kimbel, by Ferro) owned by Team Rebecca, slotted into fifth place. In addition to their one pole down yesterday, they added 1.2 time penalties today for a final result of 34.8.

Mike Pendleton and Steadie Eddie. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Mike Pendleton piloted Steady Eddie into sixth place after jumping double clear for a final score of 35.2.

Buck Davidson finished 7th and 8th with Carlevo (35.3) and Jak My Style (35.6). Doug Payne finished 9th with five-star partner Vandiver on a score of 39.9. Clayton Fredericks closed out the top ten with FE Stormtrooper after 2.8 time penalties for a score of 40.7.

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Preview the $50K Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field Cross Country

Bruce’s Field. Photo by Shelby Allen.

From The Wilcox to Hitchcock woods, the cross country course at the $50,000 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field is undeniably Aiken. As the only showcase for the snowbird paradise city, course designer Capt. Mark Phillips and course builder Eric Bull have dedicated the project to honoring the city.
The course is similar to last year, but defending champion Liz Halliday-Sharp says this year feels a bit tighter, and predicts that the time may be harder to achieve. Riders will want to come home in less than 4 minutes and 3 seconds. Here’s a look at the course, and you can find a gallery at the end of this post:
We can confirm 12 combinations have withdrawn, including overnight leaders Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg. Boyd has said that “Thomas” ran at Pine Top just six days ago, so in the interest of best preparing him for Kentucky, he’s opted to sit this one out.
Start time for cross country is 2:34 p.m. with Allie Knowles and Morswood as the first to go. You can watch it on EQTV or right here on EN.

Watch the $50,000 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field Live Stream

Bruce’s Field is once again hosting its Grand-Prix Eventing showcase which is underway now at the Aiken Horse Park in South Carolina. It’s a who’s-who of eventing, with American greats like Phillip Dutton and Boyd Martin among the entrants, all with an eye on the $50,000 purse.

The competition will run in a two-day format, with dressage and show jumping held on Friday and cross country on Saturday. If you can join us in Aiken for the weekend, then be sure to tune into EQTV‘s live stream broadcast. Here’s their weekend schedule:

FRIDAY
Dressage: 7:45 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Show Jumping: 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. EST

SATURDAY
Cross country: 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. EST
Presentation of Awards: 4:45 p.m. EST

Eventers are once again riding to raise money for local charities, but this year in a team format. Each team of riders will support two charitable organizations based here in Aiken. Here are the team rosters:

Team Red — Aiken Civil Ballet & Friends of the Animal Shelter

Phillip Dutton* & Fernhill Singapore — Team Captain
Phillip Dutton & Z
Mike Pendleton & Steady Eddie
Colleen Loach & Qorry Blue D’Argouges
Daniela Moguel & Cecelia

Team Orange — Equine Rescue of Aiken & Mental Health America

Liz Halliday-Sharp* & Carpe Diem IV — Captain
Liz Halliday-Sharp & Deniro Z
Will Faudree & Caeleste
Mallory Hogan & Clarissa Purisima
Allie Sacksen & Sparrow’s Nio

Team Yellow — Aiken Volunteer Mounted Unit & Tri-Development Center of Aiken 

Doug Payne* & Quantum Leap
Doug Payne & Vandiver
Clayton Fredericks & FE Stormtrooper
Anna Loschiavo & Spartacus Q
Arden Wildasin & Il Vici

Team Green — Brothers and Sisters of Aiken County & Megiddo Dream Station

Ryan Wood* & Powell
Ryan Wood & Rembrant
Nilson de Silva & Rock Phantom
Lillian Heard & LCC Barnaby
Lauren Nicholson & Veronica

Team Blue — Aiken Steeplechase Association & Great Oak 

Boyd Martin* & Long Island T
Buck Davidson & Carlevo
Buck Davidson & Jak My Style
Sar Gumbiner & Polaris
Dana Cook & FE Mississippi

Team Purple — The First Tee & USC Aiken Equestrian 

Allison Springer* & Business Ben
Allison Springer & Sapphire Blue B
Jules Ennis & Cooley O
Allie Knowles & Morsood
Colleen Rutledge & Covert Rights

 *Denotes team captain. 

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Boyd Martin Makes His Move in Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg. Photo by Shelby Allen.

It was a craps game this afternoon at the $50,000 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field. Michel Vaillancourt’s course carefully collected the leaderboard, shook it up and scattered the results like a dice role, shuffling the deck to reveal Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg as the new leaders.

Our Pan American double gold medalists Boyd and “Thomas,” Christine Turner’s 12-year-old Trakehner gelding (Windfall x Thabana, by Buddenbrock), jumped double clear — to remain on a score of 30.7 — and all seems right with the world.

“It’s the biggest track he’s jumped since last year. The biggest track I’ve jumped since last year as well, so it’s good to be back in the swing of things,” Boyd said.

Welcome back, you two. To be fair, their two-phase result was hard-earned as they were one of only five pairs to jump faultlessly. “The dressage was like that a bit too,” Boyd said of the course’s difficulty. “A lot of electricity in the ring, big jumps, tough technical course with lots of long strides then short strides… it was a real mega course. I was thrilled to leave them up.”

Spoiler alert: You can expect another leaderboard change tomorrow, as Boyd’s already planned to withdraw both Thomas and Long Island T, who is in 13th place.

“Thomas ran in the Intermediate just six days ago at Pine Top in Georgia, so he’s had a cross country ride not long ago, and I’m really trying to set him up well for Kentucky, and it would be an act of madness to sprint him around the cross country here six days after he’s had a run. The other bloke, he’s had sore heels, and he missed a bit of work this week. Two poles down — we’re out of it so I’ll just run him next week,” he said.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z. Photo by Shelby Allen.

That leaves the door wide open for defending champion Liz Halliday-Sharp. This year she’s brought forward two rides: Deniro Z, who sits second and Cooley Quicksilver who is 16th.

Liz was tied with Boyd after dressage, but one second t0 many in the show jumping bumped her just behind the leaders on a score of 31.1 with the 12-year-old KWPN (Zapatero VDL x Zonne-Trend, by French Buffet xx) owned by Ocala Horse Properties and The Deniro Syndicate.

“I’m furious at myself for that,” she said of the 0.4 time penalties. “It’s been interesting this year because ever since Deniro did Burghley, he’s completely changed to jump. He’s really polite now, and he used to land and go, so I have this believe as to where I’m going to be. More than one time working this year I’ve ended up adding a stride in a combination, which I’ve never done in my life because the horse is so waiting for me that if I don’t move a bit when I land I’m like ‘Whoa!’

“It was one hundred percent my fault. The horse jumped great. It was a tough course to ride — it put pressure on you. So I’m owning the one second that’s one hundred percent Halliday-Sharp. We’ll keep working — I’d rather him be polite, and now I just have to learn to ride my polite horse. “

Liz describes herself as ‘competitive,’ and has assured us she’s gunning for a back-to-back win tomorrow as a prep for the Kentucky Three-Day Event.

“I’ll run him quick for the time. This is what we planned this year to do Wellington and this as runs for him instead of Pine Top because he’s really good on a big, galloping track, so it’s good for him to do these nippy tracks where you put the pressure on and turn him tight. It’s good practice for both of us,” she said.

Phillip Dutton and Z. Photo by Shelby Allen.

It was a good day in the office for Phillip Dutton who moved Z and Fernhill Singapore into third and fourth place, respectively. The Z Partnership’s 12-year-old Zangersheide (Asca X Bellabouche, by Babouche VH Gehucht Z) went double clear to remain on 32.6, and Fernhill Singapore, an 11-year-old KWPN (Sinapore x Riedellia, by Animo) owned by Ann Jones, Thomas Tierney and David Vos, added just 0.4 time penalties for a score of 33.1.

“It was a difficult show jumping track but the rails were spread evenly around so I think Michel got it about right. The show jumping standard in eventing, just like all the other phases, is getting stronger and stronger. I think everyone handled it pretty well,” he said. Phillip also confirmed that both his horses will compete tomorrow.

“I’ve targeted these two horses to do the Showcase in Wellington and then this Eventing Grand Prix, the idea being that it’s good to practice your skills under pressure,” he explained. “It’s reasonably difficult doing the five star test in the dressage and then a bigger show jumping and the cross country shouldn’t be that taxing on the horses because it’s quite short.”

Will Faudree and Caeleste. Photo by Shelby Allen.

A double clear round boosted Will Faudree and Caeleste from 11th to fifth place. Jennifer Mosing & Sterling Silver Stables’ 13-year-old Holsteiner (Contender x Happygolucky, by Lucky Lionel), who began her career with Kitty King, stays on her dressage score of 33.6.

Lauren Nicholson and Veronica. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Dressage winners Lauren Nicholson (née Kieffer) and Veronica had one pole down in the second half of the course to drop into a tie for fifth with Faudree.

Erin Sylvester-Kanara and Paddy The Caddy. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Erin Sylvester-Kanara and Paddy The Caddy took over seventh place as one of the five double cleans on a score of 35.1. Mike Pendleton and Steadie Eddie are eighth. They jumped clear, but added 1.6 time penalties to sit on 35.2 points.

Buck Davidson took ninth and 10th with Carlevo and Jak My Style, respectively. Carlevo, a 13-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Eurocommerce Caresino x  Ramateulle, by  Levernois) owned by Carlevo LLC, dropped on rail and added 0.8 time penalties for a score of 35.3. Stablemate Jak My Style left all the poles up, but racked up 1.2 time penalties for a score of 35.6.

The cross country gets underway tomorrow at 2:30 p.m. It will all be streamed live, so tune in at this link to watch the action unfold.

Go eventing.

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Grand-Prix Eventing: Lauren Nicholson & Veronica Take Dressage Lead at Bruce’s Field

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Shelby Allen.

At 18, Veronica may be entering the golden years of her career, but she had no hesitation showing the rest of the competition how it’s done this morning at the $50,000 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field, winning the dressage phase with Lauren Nicholson (née Kieffer) in the irons.

Lauren told EN earlier this spring, that riding Team Rebecca’s spicy KWPN (Pacific x Kimbel, by Ferro) is comfortable and well known, much like “Putting on your favorite old sweatshirt.” For the pair that knows each other backwards and forwards, Lauren knew that full retirement would never be an option for “Troll,” so with no plans to return to the top levels of the sport, they’ve opted to simply enjoy the ride.

The years built into the partnership showed today in the arena, and the pair easily snagged a score of 29.6 — the only sub-30 result in the bunch.

“She was pretty wild actually. She’s very excited to be competing again, and she was very pleased to be the only horse we brought here. She thinks that’s how it’s always supposed to be,” Lauren said. “She feels as good as she ever did. She was pretty tense in there, but she’s such a professional, she makes it look fine even though you feel like you’re sitting on a ticking time bomb.”

Buck Davidson and Carlevo, a 13-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Eurocommerce Caresino x  Ramateulle, by  Levernois) owned by Carlevo LLC, follow in second place. Sitting on 30.5 points, they’re within striking distance ahead of this afternoon’s show jumping.

“He’s very trained how. I just try to keep him fresh and keep him enthusiastic about the whole thing. It’s very much like Reggie was in the end; I don’t hassle him too much at home. He knows how to do things,” Buck said.

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Boyd Martin and Liz Halliday-Sharp currently split a two-way tie for third place on a score of 30.7.

Double Pan American Games gold medalists Boyd and Tsetserleg, a 12-year-old Trakehner gelding (Windfall x Thabana, by Buddenbrock) owned by Christine Turner, are up against defending champion Liz aboard with Deniro Z, a 12-year-old KWPN (Zapatero VDL x Zonne-Trend, by French Buffet xx) owned by Ocala Horse Properties and The Deniro Syndicate.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Boyd also sits fifth with his second ride, Long Island T, a 14-year-old Oldenburg/Thoroughbred (Ludwig von Bayern x Haupstsbuch Highlight, by Heraldik xx) owned by The Long Island T Syndicate, on a score of 31.1.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Singapore. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Ryan Wood and the American-bred Powell earned sixth place. The 14-year-old Oldenburg gelding (Pablito x Dinara, by Donnerwerth), who is owned by Summit Sporthorses and Ryan, carries 31.9 points into the jumping phases. Phillip Dutton sits seventh and eighth with Z and Fernhill Singapore, respectively. A 12-year-old Zangersheide (Asca X Bellabouche, by Babouche VH Gehucht Z) owned by the Z Partnership, Z scored 32.6. His stablemate, an 11-year-old KWPN (Sinapore x Riedellia, by Animo) owned by Ann Jones, Thomas Tierney and David Vos, sits on 32.7 points.

Allie Knowles and Morswood. Photo by Shelby Allen.

There’s also a tie for ninth place with Allie Knowles and Liz Halliday-Sharp both on 33.1 points. Allie is paired with Morswood, a 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by Katherine O’Brien, and Liz rides Cooley Quicksilver, a 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by The Monster Partnership.

These guys are enjoying a breather now before the show jumping phase starts at 4 p.m. — please note this is updated from the original time of 4:30 p.m. Stay tuned for more from Aiken.

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Tuesday Video: ‘Mud Walking’ with William Fox-Pitt

If you’ve felt especially bogged down this winter with all the rain, then you’re in good company. According to William Fox-Pitt, that’s the perfect ground to bring your horse back into work on. In his most recent video, William shows us how he likes to start his horses after a holiday: Mud Walking. Yes, it’s just as it sounds. All you need is a muddy field and a barefoot horse. He credits this exercise to strengthening the horses legs in the early season, also arguing that the first time they see mud shouldn’t be at an event. If it’s good enough for WFP, then it’s certainly good enough for me!