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Kentucky Day Two: A Fancy Prancing Photo Gallery

By on Apr 26, 2019 6:59 pm -

Another dressage day at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event is in the books! We saw heaps of talented performances throughout the day, and the amazingly talented Shannon Brinkman (who received an IAEG award today for her outstanding photography!) was there to catch it all. Scroll on for her gorgeous gallery:

Keep up with us tomorrow. You can find minute-by-minute updates on EN’s Open Thread, and of course you can watch it all live of USEF Network. Click here for details on how to watch, and click here to catch up on all of our coverage.

#LRK3DE: Website, Schedule, Entries & Drawn Order, Live Scores, How to Watch Live, USEF Network, Horse & Country TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

Oliver Townend & Cooley Master Class Claim Kentucky Dressage Lead

By on Apr 26, 2019 6:18 pm -

Oliver Townend and Cooley Master Class. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

World Number One Oliver Townend’s got one thing on his mind this weekend: getting behind the wheel of another gorgeous Land Rover at the conclusion of Sunday’s show jumping, and he’s well on his way after smashing a 24.1 in the first phase of the 2019 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by MARS Equestrian with Cooley Master Class. 

“It’s obviously a great feeling to be back here. It’s one of my favorite events full stop. The people here are very friendly. The atmosphere is second to none, and the stadium is out of this world. It’s an event that if I had the last event of my career, this would be the one I’d want to be at,” Oliver said.

He and Angela Hislop’s  14-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Ramiro B X The Swallow, by Master Imp) delivered a masterful performance to beat personal best at the level by over four points.

“It’s nice to be on the lead after dressage. I’m very happy with his performance. He was very laid back, almost bone idle. The weather was looky, but I wouldn’t have wanted it any hotter because he was nearly going to sleep on me. He knows me very well and I know him — I’ve had him since he was four, so I’m basically going in there to do a clear round and press the buttons,” he said.

Piggy French and Quarrycrest Echo. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Compatriot Piggy French also got the personal best memo, as she and Qarrycrest Echo, a 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Clover Echo x Royal China, by Cavalier Royale) owned by Jayne McGivern, delivered their own on 27.1 points.

“It’s windy in there. You go down the tunnel and actually the breeze gets you, so it just felt quite stormy. And he just felt a bit fresh when I got on him so I’m relieved there was no big mistakes,” Piggy said. “I know in his work bits could be better — he’s not a great trotter — so he needs to be as relaxed and as up as he possibly can to get the 7s or 7.5s, but his canter work is usually pretty good. I was delighted with him from how he felt in the warm up to go in there and be professional and do his job.”

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Boyd Martin leads the Land Rover/USEF CCI5*-L National Championship as the highest placed American sitting in third place with Christine Turner’s Tsetserleg on a score of 27.9.

“I was happy with my bloke. Dressage is a frustrating sport because you can always look back on it and wish you did things better. Last year he was very green here and sort of scraped through all three phases. This year he’s a bit more seasoned and confirmed at this level,” he said.

“Last year was a little bit of a rush getting through this and going to the WEG. It felt like we were doing everything on a wing and a prayer. It’s been good to take a moment to get to know each other.”

Overnight leaders Felix Vogg and Colero, 10-year-old Westphalian’s (Captain Fire X Bonia, Bormio xx) owned by Jürgen Vogg, now sit fourth on a score of 28.

Tim Price and Xavier Faer. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

New Zealand’s Tim Price joined Liz Halliday-Sharp and Ocala Horse Properties/The Deniro Z Syndicate’s Deniro Z on a score of 30.9 tie for fifth place.

After winning Burghley last fall, Tim is here this weekend chasing the Rolex Grand Slam dream with Xavier Faer, a 13-year-old SHBGB (Catherston Liberator x Faerie Dazzler) owned by Tim, Trisha Rickards, and Nigella Hall.

Phillip Dutton and Z. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Seventh place belongs to Phillip Dutton and Z, a 10-year-old Zangersheide (Asca X Bellabouche, by Babouche VH Gehucht Z) owned by the Z Partnership, on a score of 31.7.

Buck Davidson sits 8th with his first of three rides, Park Trader, a 17-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Master Imp x Ballyhast Polly, by Highland King) owned by Carl and Cassie Segal. He carries 32.1 points into tomorrow’s cross country.

He’s also 15th with Kathleen and Roberto Cuca’s Jak My Style (34.1) and 21st with Carl Segal & Sherrie Martin’s Copper Beach (35.9).

Erin Sylvester and Paddy The Caddy. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Erin Sylvester piloted Frank McEnte’s Paddy The Caddy, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred (Azamore x Slamy), to 9th place after a personal best dressage result of 32.2.

Waylon Roberts ties for 10th with Halie Coon & Celien after his 32.7 dressage test aboard Lancaster, A 12-year-old Canadian Sport Horse owned by Michelle and John Koppin.

By The Numbers 

Overall, the judges differed an average of 3.19% per test, 0.68% higher than we saw here last year. Now let’s unpack those who saw differences of more than 5% among judges: 2017 saw this in 1.7% of riders, 2018 was 8.7%, and this year 16.7% of the competitors had more than a five percent difference between their highest and lowest scores.

As a group, scores were 1.49 points above what we expected, with Friday morning’s session faring the best at just 0.25 points above. Thursday morning took the brunt with their results were an average of 2.58 points above expected.

As a whole, riders earned more favorable scores on Friday. The Friday group scored an average of 0.87 points above expected, while Thursday’s rides averaged +2.20.

Judges didn’t heavily punish those at the lower end of the spectrum but those expected to score well had to earn every point. Horses expected to score in 20s scored +1.36, expected 30-35 were +2.88, expected 35-40 were +0.61, expected 40+ were +0.13.

EN’s Data Analyst Maggie Deatrick has been madly crunching numbers all day. She’s compiled a summary into the handy graphic above to demonstrate the range of each pair. Pale orange demonstrates the range that each pair scores in 67% of the time while the black mark shows their average over the last twelve months. Actual score is a black dot, so you can see how your favorite pairs did!

As we look ahead to tomorrow’s cross country phase, we’ve got perfect ground and even better weather in the forecast, so the time should be easier to achieve than in rain-soaked years. But there’s no doubt that Derek di Grazia’s beefy track will, as usual, play a major influence. You can check out our fence-by-fence preview at this link.

Last year Oliver Townend was the only rider in the field to pilot both his horses around Derek’s track inside the time, so he’ll be ready to put his foot on the pedal tomorrow.

“It always amazes me how much the course does change from year to year here. Even questions that you think not many people got 100% right last year all of a sudden disappear and a new question arrives. It’s something that’s very different over here possibly to a lot of places that we ride in England,” Oliver said.

“I’m a huge fan of Derek di Grazia’s courses. I think he has a real knack knowing exactly what works in terms of distance between the combinations and also what a horse can see in terms of the lines,” he continued. “This course I think is as tough as I’ve seen here and I think that you need to be switched on every step of the way. I think you could have a very easy blip without doing too much wrong. It’s a true five star test, and I think that it’s definitely not a dressage competition. It’s a proper, proper job from start to finish.”

First horse will leave the box tomorrow at 10:30 a.m. EST. You can watch every single second of the action live (and for free!) on USEF Network. Click here for details on how to watch. If you can’t watch, be sure to follow along here on EN in our open thread or on Twitter.

#LRK3DE: Website, Schedule, Entries & Drawn Order, Live Scores, How to Watch Live, USEF Network, Horse & Country TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

 

 

Kentucky Day 2 Lunch Update: Piggy French Takes Over

By on Apr 26, 2019 12:38 pm -

Piggy French and Quarrycrest Echo. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Friday’s draw order is teeming with horses talented on the flat, almost none more so than Quarrycrest Echo who has taken over the lead of the 2019 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event with Piggy French in the tack.

Jayne McGivern’s 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Clover Echo x Royal China, by Cavalier Royale) has the best dressage average in the field at this level, but they went ahead topped that with a personal best of 27.1.

“To be honest I didn’t think I had him quite right outside so in my mind I was thinking, I knew I wasn’t in the perfect place you want to be, but I really was impressed with him the fact that he’s become more professional over the years and tried very hard and knuckled down, so I was just delighted and could start breathing when I did the final halt and he had been a good boy,” she said.

The next leaderboard change is brought to you courtesy of Erin Sylvester and Paddy The Caddy, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred (Azamore x Slamy) owned by Frank McEnte. They also ventured into personal best territory with their score of 32.2, which moves them into fifth place.

Lauren Kieffer and Paramount Importance. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Lauren Kieffer, who was the very first ride of the day, took over 7th place on a score of 33.6 with Paramount Importance, a 12-year-old Holsteiner (Pasco x Gesche II, by Lois).

Colleen Loach and Qorry Blue d’Argouges, a 15-year-old Thoroughbred/Selle Francais (Mr. Blue x Hardie du Bourg, by Count Ivor) owned by Petter Barry, sit 8th after on a score of 34 — another personal best today.

Will Coleman and Tight Lines. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Will Coleman and Tight Lines, a 12-year-old French Thoroughbred  (Turgeon x Merindole, Tel Quel) move into 12th on a score of 35.7.

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

We welcomed Leslie Law back to the top level after a decade hiatus to sit 16th on a score of 36.9 with Voltaire de Tre’, a 10-year-old Selle Francais (Gentleman IV x Jasmina du Frense) owned by Tre’ Brooks.

This morning’s session proved the “Friday Phenomenon” exists, as scores have been an average of 0.25 points above what we expected — a stark contrast to yesterday which saw the morning sessions 2.58 and 1.85 points higher on average.

For the morning group, the judges have had a 3.42% difference of opinion, and of the three judges, Mark Weissbecker has remained the lowest scoring so far.

Keep up with all of Maggie Deatrick’s analysis as she follows live on EN’s Twitter.

We’ll be back underway with the final session starting at 1:00 with Waylon Roberts and Lancaster. You can watch live on USEF Network. Stay tuned for much more from #LRK3DE. Go Eventing.

#LRK3DE: Website, Schedule, Entries & Drawn Order, Live Scores, How to Watch Live, USEF Network, Horse & Country TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

 

Magic Moments: Kentucky Day One Photo Gallery

By on Apr 25, 2019 5:27 pm -

Watching horses and riders canter into the arena at the Kentucky Three-Day Event will never get old. It’s a day overflowing with emotion after months and years of following a dream. The talented Shannon Brinkman has a special knack for finding these special moments, and she has another gorgeous photo gallery to enjoy:

#LRK3DE: Website, Schedule, Entries & Drawn Order, Live Scores, How to Watch Live, USEF Network, Horse & Country TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

Kentucky Day One: Felix Vogg and Colero Soar to Dressage Lead

By on Apr 25, 2019 5:06 pm -

Felix Vogg and Colero. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

American-transplant Felix Vogg and Jürgen Vogg’s Colero have marched right up to the very front of the pack at the 2019 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by MARS Equestrian.

Leaders at the lunch break, no one in the afternoon session could touch the 10-year-old Westphalian’s (Captain Fire X Bonia, Bormio xx) score of 28. Looking forward to the jumping phases, he’s in a favorable position as the last seven winners here have all had a sub-30 dressage score.

In addition to dreams of being the first Swiss rider to win Kentucky, a top finish here for Felix would be the ultimate cherry on top of his American adventure. “I move back to Germany next week, and this was the final thing you can do here in America. It’s one of the biggest events in the world. I always wanted to ride here,” Felix said.

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

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z were easy favorites coming into this event as Liz has been on a serious hot streak with 10 wins in 2019 so far.

Today’s score of 30.9 pops just above their only other score at this level (29.8, Luhmühlen 2018), which Liz attributes to the flying changes, which have always been a nemesis of sorts for Ocala Horse Properties and The Deniro Z Syndicate’s 11-year-old KWPN gelding (Zapatero VDL X Zonne- Trend, by French Buffet xx).

“I was really pleased with Deniro Z. This is his first time at Kentucky. It’s never easy being third to go and so early on. I felt he gave me everything he had,” Liz said. “I was a little disappointed with the score if I’m being honest. He does struggle with the flying changes. I had hoped we’d done enough to get into the high 20s. He gave me everything. He was perfect in the atmosphere.”

Buck Davidson delivered two top five performances with third-placed Park Trader and fifth-placed Jak My Style, respectively.

Park Trader, a 17-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Master Imp x Ballyhast Polly, by Highland King) owned by Carl and Cassie Segal, earned a personal best score of 32.1 to sit third in his eighth CCI5*-L start.

Buck Davidson and Jak My Style. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Five-star first-timer Jak My Style, a 14-year-old Thoroughbred owned by Kathleen and Roberto Cuca, followed in his stablemate’s example to earn a score of 34. “Jak” has a colorful backstory — that’s the nice way to say he’s bucked a lot of people off! — and you can read all about it in our preview. Buck is the only rider in the competition with three horses; he will ride Copper Beach tomorrow.

“[Park Trader] did as well as he can possibly do. He did all four changes and he made no mistakes. Maybe a little bit later (in the order), and he’d be on a better score, but I’m very happy with the score and I’m not disappointed to be on 32 going into the next phase,” Buck said.

“One thing I can say about all three horses: they compete. They give you their best in the ring, and when the lights shine they show up.”

Hallie Coon and Celien. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Hallie Coon and Celien, 12-year-old KWPN (Tenerife VDL x R Quicksilver, by Hamelt), who is owned by Hallie and Helen Coon, rose to the meet their first Kentucky challenge today, securing sixth place on a score of 32.7.

“It felt amazing. It’s an atmosphere unlike any other. I’ve done a five-star before, but Pau wasn’t quite like this. I was really happy with how she kept her cool in there and I was just generally really pleased. It was a great experience,” Hallie said.

Daniela Moguel and Cecelia. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Will Faudree and Daniela Moguel share sixth place on an identical score of 35.4.

Will rides Pfun, a 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Tadmus x Celerina, by Cento) owned by Jennifer Mosing and Sterling Silver Stables.

Mexico’s Daniela, who is battling a broken rib this week, is riding her World Equestrian Games partner, Cecelia, a 16-year-old Thoroughbred (Connecticut x Penny Stock, by Spend A Buck) owned by Paloma Garcia and Jorge Eduardo Martinez Castrejon.

Caroline Martin and Spring Easy. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

We have another tie between eighth-placed Caroline Martin and Ellen Doughty-Hume on a score of 36.2.

Caroline earned this score aboard Danger Mouse, an 11-year-old Warmblood owned by Caroline and Sherrie Martin, and Ellen rides her own and Alistair Hume’s Sir Oberon, a 17-year-old Holsteiner/Thoroughbred (HQ Outrigger x Cher) as she aims for a fifth five-star completion here at Kentucky.

Allie Sacksen sits 10th with her own Sparrow’s Nio, a 16-year-old Connemara/Thoroughbred (Grange Finn Sparrow x JB), on a personal best of 36.7.

EN’s data analyst Maggie Deatrick has been madly crunching numbers all day, and she’s reporting that today’s scores have hovered on the high range, an average of 2.19 points higher than expected. The morning section was a bit more skewed at 2.57 points above expected and the afternoon session was 1.85 points above.

Joe Meyer and Johnny Royale. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

On average, the ground jury of Christina Klingspor (SWE), Martin Plewa (GER) and Mark Weissbecker (USA)  differed an average of 3.55%. They agreed most on both Hallie Coon and Celien and Joe Meyer and Johnny Royale’s tests (1.93%), and differed most on Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z with 7.69% difference.

Don’t miss Maggie’s continued analysis tomorrow on EN’s Twitter.

Looking ahead to the rest of the competition, Derek di Grazia has laid out an impressive cross country track that all the riders agreed will ride much harder than it walks. Take a peek at a fence-by-fence preview at this link.

Felix is thankful to be sitting on a fit horse after walking the many undulations across the Kentucky Horse Park.

“It looks like a nice course. I think for my horse there is more adjusting as (the terrain) goes up and down,” he said. “It’s more fitness work that probably someone thinks. I just saw last year that the fitter horse the better. Every five-star is challenging but I think especially here you need a fit horse.”

Liz believes the course should suit Deniro in his second five-star appearance saying, “I always love Derek’s courses. I think he’s a brilliant course designer. He always brings something different and I think he’s done that again this year. He tries to keep you guessing a little bit.” Liz said

“I think it will be interesting to ride Deniro here because his first five-star was at Luhmühlen which is very, very twisty through the trees, and this is a much more open, galloping track that will I hope reward a big, bold jumping horse, which is what he is.”

Buck added: “To me its deceivingly hilly here from the start box all the way to the quarry. Then you get a minute downhill on the way to the lake, but then you go back up hill, and it lulls you in the beginning to thinking it’s a big galloping track, but then it’s very technical at the end. It will be interesting just to find out how tired they get because you need some energy at the end of course. There’s a lot of jumping at the end — maybe more so than the beginning.”

We’re back underway with dressage tomorrow starting at 10 a.m. with Lauren Kieffer and Paramount Importance first in the ring. Watch all the action live at USEF Network.

Keep it locked right here for all the latest from the #BestWeekendAllYear. Go Eventing.

#LRK3DE: Website, Schedule, Entries & Drawn Order, Live Scores, How to Watch Live, USEF Network, Horse & Country TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

 

Thursday Kentucky Lunch Update: Felix Vogg & Colero On Top

By on Apr 25, 2019 12:47 pm -

Felix Vogg and Colero. Photo by Shannon Binkman Photography.

The top of the leaderboard was Felix Vogg’s for the taking as he and Colero danced around the dressage arena at the 2019 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by MARS Equestrian.

On a morning when nerves unraveled dressage powerhouses, Jürgen Vogg’s 10-year-old Westphalian (Captain Fire X Bonia, Bormio xx) oozed relaxation, and that earned him a score of 28 — a new CCI5*-L personal best.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z stepped into second place on a score of 30.9. Bobbles in the flying changes interrupted what was a beautiful test for the 11-year-old KWPN gelding (Zapatero VDL X Zonne- Trend, by French Buffet xx) owned by The Deniro Syndicate, who posted a score of 30.9.

Buck Davidson and Park Trader. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Buck Davidson piloted the first of his three rides, Park Trader, a 17-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Master Imp x Ballyhast Polly, by Highland King) owned by Carl and Cassie Segal, into the current top three bang on their personal best at the level (32.1, Burghley 2018).

Hallie Coon and Celien take fourth in their Kentucky debut. The 12-year-old KWPN (Tenerife VDL x R Quicksilver, by Hamelt), who is owned by Hallie and Helen Coon, earned a score of 32.7.

Allie Sacksen and Sparrow’s Nio. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Allie Sacksen was all smiles with her own Sparrow’s Nio after their test. She and the 16-year-old Connemara/Thoroughbred (Grange Finn Sparrow x JB) delivered a personal best of 36.8 in their third Kentucky appearance.

It was a tense morning for many horses in the Kentucky atmosphere, and we saw it across leaderboard as our first session scored 2.57 points higher than expected. Martin Plewa (GER), who is sitting at E, has been the most generous judge thus far while, Mark Weissbecker (USA) at M has been consistently lower through the morning session.

So far the three judges have had a 3.63% average difference of opinion across the scores. They most agreed on Allie Sacken and Sparrow’s Nio where they were only 2.11% apart, and they disagreed the most on Liz Halliday-Sharp, who earned a 73.27% from Martin, 65.58% from Christina Klingspor (SWE) at C, and 68.46% from Mark.

EN’s data analyst Maggie Deatrick is crunching the numbers throughout dressage, so be sure to follow her analysis this afternoon on Twitter.

Remember you can watch all the action live on on USEF Network with a free fan membership; click here for details on how to sign up. Follow along with all of EN’s coverage in our Ultimate Guide to the event. Stay tuned for much more from #LRK3DE. Go Eventing.

Dressage starts back at 1 p.m. with Joe Meyer and Johnny Royale, one of the off-track Thoroughbreds competing this weekend. You can read more about the OTTBs of Kentucky here.

You can catch up on the morning session with minute-by-minute updates from Tilly Berendt in our Open Thread, presented by Smartpak.

#LRK3DE: Website, Schedule, Entries & Drawn Order, Live Scores, How to Watch Live, USEF Network, Horse & Country TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

EN’s Unofficial Kentucky Jog Awards + Photo Gallery

By on Apr 24, 2019 7:49 pm -

We’ve been watching countless episodes of Project Runway just to prepare for this, the biggest fashion event in three-day eventing. Riders made the jog strip their runway in the beautiful Kentucky sun this afternoon (41 have been given the stamp of approval to compete), and we are pleased to announce the very unofficial winners of EN’s coveted titles. All that PLUS a stunning gallery from Shannon Brinkman Photography.

#LRK3DE: Website, Schedule, Entries & Drawn Order, How to Watch Live, USEF Network, Horse & Country TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

Best Turned Out: Voltaire de Tre & Leslie Law 

Leslie Law and Voltaire de Tre. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Best Turned Out Honorable Mention: Tsetserleg & Boyd Martin

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Best Kite Impression : Deniro Z

Deniro Z, held by kite-wranger/supergroom Debbie Carpenter. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Best Braids: Congo Brazzaville Z and Mara dePuy 

Mara dePuy and Congo Brazzaville C. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Best Braids Not on a Horse: Hawley Bennett-Awad  (for the second year in a row)

Hawley Bennett-Awad and Jollybo. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Tough As Nails: Daniela Moguel, for her brilliant display of a trot up with a busted rib.

Daniela Moguel and Cecelia. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Most Thoughtful Outfit: Chris Talley

Chris’ suit was a tribute to his grandmother, who passed three years ago. A huge supporter of Chris, he embroidered her favorite flower, daisies, and “Love” in her own hand.

Chris Talley and Unmarked Bills. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Best Hat: Sara Gumbiner

Sara Gumbiner and Polaris. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Best Jumpsuit: Ariel Grald

Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Best Pop of Color: Allie Sacksen 

Allie Sacksen and Sparrows Nio. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Stay tuned for much, much more from Kentucky. Go eventing.

 

 

Your Ultimate Guide to the 2019 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event

By on Apr 24, 2019 10:00 am -

Will Coleman and Tight Lines. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Hello and welcome to The Best Weekend All Year! EN is here to help guide you through how to get the absolute most from your experience at the 2019 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Mars Equestrian. Keep checking back on this page throughout the week to stay up to date on all of the latest from EN’s coverage.

#LRK3DE: Website, Schedule, Live Scores, Entries & Drawn Order, How to Watch Live, USEF Network, Horse & Country TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

MUST READ 

How to Watch the 2019 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Online

The Thoroughbreds of the 2019 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event

Two Must-Have Mobile Apps for Keeping Up With Kentucky

Meet the Four Five-Star First-Timers Contesting Kentucky 2019

Kentucky 2019 At-A-Glance: Meet The Horses

Jak My Style: Get to Know Buck Davidson’s Unlikely Kentucky Entry

CONTESTS

EN’s Annual Kentucky Pick ‘Em Contest, Presented by Omega Alpha

  • Congratulations to Bonnie Dixon, who predicted that Oliver Townend and Cooley Master Class would win on a score of 25.6, AND that Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg would finish second. Over achiever!

EN’s 8th Annual Kentucky Top Dog Contest, Presented by World Equestrian Brands

WEDNESDAY 

Kentucky 2019 At-a-Glance: Meet the Riders

Kentucky 2019 At-a-Glance: Meet the Riders

Your Shopping, Signing & Course Walk Guide to Kentucky 2019

First Look: Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Course Preview

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: In the Barn with Deniro Z

41 Horses Accepted at Kentucky Three-Day Event First Inspection

Jog Day Social Media Roundup from Horsepower Technologies

EN’s Unofficial Kentucky Jog Awards + Photo Gallery

THURSDAY 

Dressage Powerhouses of Kentucky: Day One

The Thoroughbred Superfan’s Guide to LRK3DE

Kentucky Thursday Morning Open Thread, Presented by SmartPak

It’s Go Time! EN’s Team Picks for Kentucky 2019

Thursday Kentucky Lunch Update: Felix Vogg & Colero On Top

Kentucky Thursday Afternoon Open Thread, Presented by SmartPak

Thursday Video from Ecovet: Get PUMPED! Cross Country Day is Coming

Can’t Miss Quotes from Dressage Day One at Kentucky

Kentucky Day One: Felix Vogg and Colero Soar to Dressage Lead

Kentucky Day One: Felix Vogg and Colero Soar to Dressage Lead

Magic Moments: Kentucky Day One Photo Gallery

FRIDAY 

Dressage Powerhouses of Kentucky: Day Two

Kentucky Friday Morning Open Thread, Presented by SmartPak

Kentucky Day 2 Lunch Update: Piggy French Takes Over

Kentucky Friday Afternoon Open Thread, Presented by SmartPak

Friday Video from Smartpak: Odds-On Oliver’s Leading Test

Oliver Townend & Cooley Master Class Claim Kentucky Dressage Lead

Kentucky Day Two: A Fancy Prancing Photo Gallery

Can’t Miss Quotes from Dressage Day Two at Kentucky

Dressage Day Two Social Media Roundup from Horsepower Technologies

SATURDAY

Kentucky 2019 At-A-Glance: Dressage Gear

Dandelions in the Park

Cross Country Powerhouses of Kentucky

Kentucky Cross Country Open Thread, Presented by Horseware

Kentucky Cross Country: The Oliver Townend Takeover Continues

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: The Perfect Kentucky Pump-Up

By on Apr 23, 2019 4:50 pm -

Land Rover x Kentucky Three-Day Event

Three days. Three disciplines. One Champion.Experience every exhilarating moment from the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event tomorrow at 2pm EST on NBC.

Posted by Land Rover on Saturday, May 5, 2018

It’s nearly go time for the 2019 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event! Our defending champions Oliver Townend and Cooley Master Class have returned to defend their title, but maybe this is our lucky year for an American to snag the win? Either way, we can’t wait to bring you all the latest and greatest, so keep it locked on EN this week.

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SpectraVET is committed to providing only the highest-quality products and services to our customers, and to educating the world in the science and art of laser therapy.

We design and manufacture the broadest range of clinically-proven veterinary therapeutic laser products, which are represented and supported worldwide by our network of specialist distributors and authorized service centers.

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feeds

By on Apr 23, 2019 12:01 am -

The outstanding team of volunteers at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event were hard at work on Easter Sunday. Decorators were busy making the five-star cross country course look absolutely perfect. What happens to all these gorgeous flowers after cross country day, you might wonder. The event says the decorations are carefully uprooted and reused to decorate Sunday’s show jumping phase. After the conclusion of the event, some are sold to volunteers and many others that were rented are returned.

National Holiday: National Picnic Day

#LRK3DE: Website, Schedule, Entries & Drawn Order, How to Watch Live, USEF Network, Horse & Country TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

Events Opening This Week: Plantation Field H.T., The Middleburg H.T., River Glen June H.T., Queeny Park H.T., Feather Creek Farm H.T., Camelot Equestrian Horse Park-Over The Moon in June H.T.

Events Closing This Week: Plantation Field May H.T., WindRidge Farm H.T., Mill Creek Pony Club H.T. at Longview, Texas Rose Horse Park Summer H.T., Galway Downs Spring H.T., Woodland Stallion Station H.T., Spokane Sport Horse Farm 4th Annual Spring H.T., Winona Horse Trials, Old Chatham H.T.

Tuesday News: 

We love the story of a horse that wasn’t bound for eventing, but is going to Badminton anyway. That’s the background of Carryon Bobby Boy, Julia Norman’s entry. This horse only started eventing 4 years ago, and makes his five-star debut in two short weeks. [Badminton first-timers: Julia Norman — ‘we never thought we would get this far’]

Dogs at events is a touchy subject. They are allowed at big events, leashed of course, but every few months there’s a story of a dog that chased someone around a cross country course. So if you’re bringing your furry friend to Kentucky this week, please be mindful. [Should I bring my dog?]

Jumper Nation has all the latest on LGCT Miami Beach: [Home win for Kristen Vanderbeen in CSI5* Opener at LGCT Miami Beach] [St. Tropex Pirates at the Helm for Global Champions League Miami Beach]

Tuesday Video:

Rest in Peace, Keep the Faith

By on Apr 21, 2019 12:30 pm -

Hannah Sue Burnett and Keep the Faith. Photo via Michael Burnett’s Facebook Page.

We’re saddened to learn of the loss of Keep the Faith, Hannah Sue Burnett’s first five-star horse, who passed away on April, 5, 2019 at the age of 28.

“Benny,” a bay Thoroughbred (Big Jim Taylor x Spring Double), was Hannah Sue’s first “big time” horse. They completed their first event in 2000, the Preliminary at River Glen, and continued to climb the ranks together.

Hannah Sue Burnett and Keep the Faith. Photo via Hannah Sue’s Facebook Page.

After a 14th place finish at Young Riders in 2006, they moved up to the four-star level and prepared for the biggest event of their lives: The 2007 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Hannah Sue was 20-year-old and riding on the wings of her angel, Benny.

Hannah Sue shared a tribute to Benny on her Facebook page today:

“Every year when Kentucky 3-Day Event rolls around I am reminded of my first time competing there…in 2007 when I was 20 years old riding Keep the Faith.

“I will never forget the feelings of that incredible week—mostly of sheer terror but also incredible support from family and friends. The biggest thing that sticks out in my mind is the overwhelming feeling of love and appreciation for my horse.

“This year there is something missing as Kentucky week nears as my family and I lost a member of our family on Friday, April 5, 2019.
Keep the Faith (aka Benny) was not only my first real event horse, he was my best friend. He was always turning heads with his beauty but was humble in how he always forgave my constant mistakes.

“He literally taught me to keep my faith in all parts of my life. I’ll never forget Clark Montgomery leading me around the start box at Rolex that day—Clark as pale with fear as I when we heard Jessica shakily (but seriously) say, ‘Jesus take the wheel.’

“We have made a lot of jokes about that moment since but I know—and as my mom always said, our Benny was an absolute gift from God. I will never forget what a blessing he was and still is in my and my family’s lives.

“Thank you to my parents for loving him as much as I did and for taking wonderful care of him in his retirement. I’ll love you forever Benny. Rest well my friend.”

Our hearts go out to Hannah and her family. Rest in peace, Keep the Faith.

Photo Gallery: Cross Country Day at Fair Hill

By on Apr 21, 2019 11:00 am -

If April showers bring May flowers, then Fair Hill International should soon be in full bloom! Amy Flemming-Waters of AFW Photography takes us around the beautiful Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area for CCI4*-S cross country day with this stunning photo gallery:

Click here to catch up on our coverage at Fair Hill.

Fair Hill CCI & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [EN’s Coverage]

Easter Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Apr 21, 2019 12:01 am -

Heads up college students! The 2019 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event wants to give you money. You can sign up for the “Next Gen Fans Sweepstakes” on cross country day for your chance to win one of five $1,000 scholarships. Enter on site on cross country day, April 27. There will three designated Sweepstakes sign-up locations: one in Sponsor Village, one in the Trade Fair, and one on The Hill. Click here for details.

National Holiday: Happy Easter!

U.S. Weekend Action:

Fair Hill CCI & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Holly Hill H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Longleaf Pine H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

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

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

Sunday Links: 

PODCAST: Your Guide to Show Jumping Time Penalties

The Relationship Between Conformation and Lameness, Part Two

One Week ‘Til Kentucky: What Oliver Townend, Will Coleman, and Others Are Doing to Prepare

FEI asks: should riders be given yellow cards for badly behaved parents?

‘He will love being back’: Jonty Evans and Art to return to Badminton

U.S. Eventers Fall Afoul Of New FEI Blood And Whip Use Rules

Sunday Video: 

View this post on Instagram

Hungry Houdini at work 😂 #gotlifesorted

A post shared by Jonelle Price (@jonelle_price) on

Boyd Martin & On Cue Conquer Fair Hill CCI4*-S

By on Apr 20, 2019 4:32 pm -

Boyd Martin and On Cue. Photo by Amy Flemming-Waters / AFW Photography.

The CCI4*-S leaderboard was a rollercoaster this weekend at the Fair Hill International April CCI & H.T. Between torrential rainfall and and a last minute course change, it wasn’t abundantly clear who won this popular spring event by day’s end. The leading role shuffled between riders, but once the dust — or more likely, mud — settled, it was Boyd Martin and On Cue who came out on top.

Fourth after dressage, Christine Turner’s 12-year-old Anglo-European mare (Cabri D’Elle x On High, Primitive Rising) powered through the jumping phases with one rail down and 12.4 time penalties across country. The final result of 48.6 secured her a fourth international career win.

Boyd Martin and Ray Price. Photo by Amy Flemming-Waters / AFW Photography.

Boyd Martin was also seventh and ninth with Ray Price (74.7) and Contestor (84.6), respectively.

Alexa Lapp and Cambalda. Photo by Amy Flemming-Waters / AFW Photography.

A little rain couldn’t slow down second place finishers Alexa Lapp and  Cambalda, who finished on an identical cross country time with Boyd.

This pair moved up to Advanced last month at Carolina International, and now “Ping,” a 17-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Balda Beau x Cathy’s Lady) owned by Tim and Nina Gardner, has added an 8th four-star win to his record as he shows Alexa the ropes at the top of the sport.

The duo started in second after dressage (30.4), dropped to seventh after show jumping with two down before climbing back into second with 12.4 time penalties for a final score of 50.8.

Kristen Bond and I’m Sew Ready. Photo by Amy Flemming-Waters / AFW Photography.

Kristen Bond and I’m Sew Ready sit proudly in third. Kristine and John Norton’s 15-year-old KWPN (Lupicor x Jarda, by Elcaro) had one rail down and 17.6 time penalties for a three-phase score of 53.6.

“Jackson” has been campaigned by Phillip Dutton over the last few seasons, and has returned to Kristen to be sold. Click here to check out his ad on Sport Horse Nation.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Singapore. Photo by Amy Flemming-Waters / AFW Photography.

Phillip Dutton piloted Fernhill Singapore, a 10-year-old KWPN (Singapore x Reidellia, by Animo) owed by Ann Jones, Tom Tierney and David Vos, to a fourth place finish on a score of 62.9. They started the weekend in 18th place after dressage, but a clear round and 18.4 cross country time penalties landed them in the top four.

Arielle Aharoni and Dutch Times. Photo by Amy Flemming-Waters / AFW Photography.

Fifth place in the division belongs to Arielle Aharoni and Dutch Times. Christina Aharoni’s 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood had one rail down and 23.2 cross country time penalties to finish on 69.2.

Erin Sylvester and Campground. Photo by Amy Flemming-Waters / AFW Photography.

Erin Sylvester went for sixth with Marnie Kelly’s Campground. The 12-year-old Thoroughbred had the second fastest cross country round of the group with 14.8 time penalties to finish on 69.4 penalty points.

Katherine Coleman and Monte Classico. Photo by Amy Flemming-Waters / AFW Photography.

Katherine Coleman and Monte Classico were 8th (75.6), Felix Vogg and Cayenne were 10th (131.6) and Missy Miller finished 11th with Quinn (144.5).

Competitors were up against sloppy conditions this weekend nearly continuous rainfall over the last 24 hours. How much rain, you ask?

It is 9:15 am. How wet is it right now at Fair Hill?

Posted by Plantation Field Horse Trials on Saturday, April 20, 2019

Fair Hill International is held together by an unbeatable team of volunteers who kept the show rolling — thanks to each and every one of you!

We’ve been lucky to follow Fair Hill through Amy Flemming-Waters’ lens! Stay tuned for even more of her gorgeous photos in a gallery later this weekend. You can also find more of her work on her AFW Photography website.

Fair Hill CCI & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [EN’s Coverage]

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: Bluegrass State Beauties

By on Apr 20, 2019 9:00 am -

In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN each week. We include the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and contact information.

In case you happen to live under a rock, we’re barreling straight toward Kentucky’s biggest horse weekend of the year. Okay — maybe second biggest if you’re into the Kentucky Derby sort of thing. Either way, horse people will soon be traveling to Lexington, KY in droves. If you’re looking to do some shopping outside of the vendor village, here are some listings close by!

Low Key Obsession. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Experienced training level horse perfect for a YR or AA looking to move up through the levels

Low Key Obsession “Rico” is an 9YO 16.1h chestnut TB gelding. He was completely produced by a young rider through training level without ever having a cross country penalty. Rico is brave and uncomplicated on XC and has only had one career rail in show jumping. He has many top 10 placings and has won at training level on a 29.1. He has also won multiple TIP awards. This guy would be great for an ambitious amateur or young rider as he has plenty of scope to move up through the levels but at the same time is very forgiving, catty, and a great confidence builder. Price includes Voltaire saddle.

Scrappy. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Super fun horse 16.1hh Unraced TB Gelding

Scrappy is a 12 yr, 16.1 hh, bay TB gelding that did not race or train at the track. He is an easy ride on the flat and to fences with an adjustable canter and a tidy jumping technique. He enjoys work and tries to please. He has some show experience in dressage and lower jumper classes, schooled XC, and has been on trails. We think he could perform well in several disciplines- dressage, H/J and eventing. No vices, easy to handle, loads and trailers well. Somewhat atypical for a thoroughbred – he has wonderful feet is a very ‘good-doer’ tending to get chubby. Located in Lexington, KY near the Kentucky Horse Park. $10,000.

Frankie. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Flashy Athletic TB gelding

“Frankie” is as flashy as they get, turning heads wherever we go. This 7yo 15.3 gelding is easy to be around on the ground, he is an easy keeper – even going barefoot with no issues. Hacks out both alone or in a group and is quite brave when doing so.

A fantastic jumper, Frankie competed this summer at recognized horse trials at Beginner Novice, where he scored a 32 on the flat and loved every minute on XC. Can get forward to fences, but is super brave – including ditches, water, banks (up/down/into water/out of water), and has never met a fence he didn’t like. He gets the step with no problem and always jumps in classic form. Is inconsistent on the flat and needs a rider which can help him with this aspect of his training. Not for a beginner.

Best suited for a gutsy teen or young adult who wants a pocket rocket of a ride on XC and can finish him in their own way. I am happy to release all vet records including a PPE from two years ago for anyone moving forward with a purchase. Please do not ask me otherwise. Mild cribber but controlled with a strap. A new baby has left me with time to only ride one horse right now and he needs to find his person. Currently not in work for the past two months due to time and weather. Asking $3000 negotiable for a quick sale. Located in Lexington KY 15 minutes from the KHP. Videos on youtube (user KMBrennan03).

Date A Saint. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Date A Saint – Saint

10 year old, 16.3 hh TB gelding. Solid training level horse that has competed up to preliminary. Saint is brave and uncomplicated over fences with a great canter and scopey jump. Would be best suited for junior/young rider or adult amateur looking to do 1.10/1.15 in the jumpers or learn the lower levels of eventing.
Ties, loads, hacks out alone or in a group. Stands well for vet and farrier.
Located in Lexington, KY.

Cole. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Cole, 9 yr old, 16 hh, TB Dark Bay Gelding Upper Level Potential

Cole is a 16hh dark bay OTTB gelding with a lighter build. He has an athletic, scopey jump and soft loose movement. We intended for him to stay and become a top class eventer with us, but we think he will be better suited to a “my only horse” situation and not one of 20 as he is here. Nick also prefers a hotter horse as Cole has a quiet temperament.

Cole has excellent ground manners and is easy to trailer, handle, hold, etc. He’s easy to hack and ride. And would be just as happy competing at the lower levels. He’s been turned out with some of our mares and he’s very gentle around them.

He started his competition career in 2018 finishing 6th at novice at Spring Run at his first event. His racing name was Cole Cole and he was sourced by Brookwood Farm Sporthorses.

15 short video clips of Cole have been added to our Wainui farm youtube page.

Listings included in this article are randomly selected and confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Lainey Ashker’s Trickiest #GOTD Yet

By on Apr 17, 2019 5:00 pm -

We’ve shared many of Lainey Ashker’s awesome #GODT (Grid of The Day) exercises here on EN. She’s constantly introducing new and fun ways to sharpen your skills over fences, but you might want to grab your neck strap for this one.

#GOTD❤️ Probably the most difficult yet rewarding exercises I’ve built to date to really encourage FORWARD riding and balance directly from the rider’s position keeping the hands OUT of the equation. The cavalettis in the vertical line and oxers help to lift the horses’ shoulders but only with the help and support of their jockeys! I really felt a difference in all of my horses’ shapes and push after accomplishing this exercise! Remember to build as necessary to you and your horse’s level. To give you a gage, both Jamison (from a previous video) and Riviera (shown here) are both intermediate level horses so practice accordingly! Cheers! #læsquad #gotd

Posted by Lainey Ashker on Tuesday, April 9, 2019

This one really hones in on the shape of your horses jump while encouraging “Forward riding and balance directly from the rider’s position,” Lainey says.

The meat of the grid features four verticals separated by 9-foot cavalettis. “The cavalettis in the vertical line and oxers help to lift the horses’ shoulders but only with the help and support of their jockeys! I really felt a difference in all of my horses’ shapes and push after accomplishing this exercise,” she continued.

Please be aware Lainey used this exercise with two of her horses who have competed through the Intermediate level, so make sure you bridge this to be appropriate with your riding level, and enjoy!

Photo and diagram by Lainey Ashker.

Go Lainey. Go eventing.

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Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: The Celine Dion + Eventing Mashup You Didn’t Know You Needed

By on Apr 16, 2019 5:00 pm -

Eventing Nation, I promise this is the best thing you’ll see on the Internet this week. Who knew five-time Grammy winner Celine Dion and a gritting-through-your-teeth-determined eventer faced with a chevron cross country fence would have so much in common?

Karla Parsons kindly shares this Twitter gold with the world. Please, enjoy with your sound on!

Why SpectraVET?

Reliable. Effective. Affordable.

SpectraVET is committed to providing only the highest-quality products and services to our customers, and to educating the world in the science and art of laser therapy.

We design and manufacture the broadest range of clinically-proven veterinary therapeutic laser products, which are represented and supported worldwide by our network of specialist distributors and authorized service centers.

 

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feeds

By on Apr 16, 2019 12:01 am -

Frankie Thieriot Stutes and Chatwin at Twin Rivers. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

We are so sad to share that Frankie Thieriot Stutes has withdrawn Chatwin from the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian. She posted to her Facebook page that Chatwin sustained an injury in their last outing, the Advanced CT at Twin Rivers, which they won.

“The Universe has other plans for us, I have no idea why, but I am sure eventually I will figure that out. I have my horse, and luckily for me, he means much more to me as a partner than the ribbons or accolades we have earned and will earn together,” she said.

We know these two will be back stronger than ever, and we wish Chatwin quick healing in the meantime.

National Holiday: National Wear Your Pajamas to Work Day

Events Opening This Week: GMHA June HorseTrials, Genesee Valley Riding & Driving Club Spring Horse Trials, Waredaca H.T., NJ Region’s H.T., Ocala Summer H.T. I, Carriage House Farm Combined Test, Equestrians’ Institute H.T., IEA Horse Trials, Classic Training & Novice 3-Day Event, Colorado Horse Park H.T., Poplar Place Farm June H.T. and Area Championships, Colorado Horse Park H.T.

Events Closing This Week: Riga Meadow at Coole Park Combined Test, MCTA H.T., Inc, Heart of the Carolinas 3-Day Event & H.T., Poplar Place Farm May H.T., The Event at Skyline

Tuesday News: 

In addition to Frankie and Chatwin, there have been a few other withdrawals from Kentucky. [Land Rover Kentucky CCI5*-L Withdrawals]

The Badminton draw order has been revealed! Pippa Funnel will be the pathfinder of the group. As we look to our US riders, Jenny Caras and Fernhill Fortitude are #63 and Tamie Smith and Wembley are #76. [Full draw revealed for Badminton Horse Trials: Pippa Funnell to be pathfinder]

Winning is nice, but there’s so much more to riding than a blue ribbon. It’s hard to not let your placing in a division define the success of your weekend, but Annette Paterakis talks about getting your headspace right and having more fun. [How To Stop Letting The Scoreboard Be Your Main Measure Of Success]

Tuesday Video: 

Tamie Smith Unstoppable in Twin Rivers CCI3*-L

By on Apr 15, 2019 10:00 am -

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

After near domination of the CCI3*-L cross country track yesterday, Tamie Smith felt one of this sport’s many valleys as she and her final ride, Ruth Bley’s Danito parted ways at the final water.

Fortunately there are no broken bones, but she took a pretty hard hit to one of her ankles. Tamie is one tough cookie and decided she wasn’t going to let it stop her from giving the rest of her string the finish they deserved, especially considering the three-star division stood as the only 2019 west coast qualifier for the this year’s Pan American Games.

By Sunday morning, she was as good as gold (at least in the saddle), and claimed both the CCI3*-L win as well as second place with Mai Baum and Fleeceworks Royal, respectively.

Alex and Ellen Ahearn and Eric Markell’s Mai Baum, a 13-year-old German Sport Horse (Loredano x Ramira, Rike), was right at home in the top spot from start to finish. Only one second on cross country marred his final result, which stands as 25.3.

Tamie Smith and Fleecework’s Royal. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

His gorgeous grey stablemate, Judy McSwain’s Fleeceworks Royal, a 10-year-old Holsteiner (Riverman x Marisol) put in an equally impressive clear round over Jose Nava’s show jumping track to finish in second on 29.7 points.

“I felt the best on Fleeceworks Royal,” Tamie told USEA’s journalist, Jessica Duffy. “Her and my partnership is finally just 110 percent which makes me really happy. It felt good, I just didn’t really have the use of my left leg which felt really weird. But she’s just so good.”

Amber Levine and Cinzano. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Amber Levine and her own Cinzano, an 8-year-old Holsteiner (Classe x Walta, by Corrado I) gradually climbed the leaderboard this weekend, starting in ninth after dressage, then nailing two fault-free jumping phases for third place on 33.4.

Meg Pellegrini and RF Eloquence. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Meg Pellegrini is a force to be reckoned with on the west coast. She and her RF Eloquence, a 14-year-old Holsteiner (Contender x D-Ginger, by Grundyman xx) have now won back to back two-star competitions after a Galway Downs CCI2*-S victory two weeks ago and now the CCI2*-L here at Twin. This win is courtesy of an FOD on a score of 29.8.

“I was really happy with how well he was jumping and how well he was feeling after cross-country,” she said. “(The cross country) was a long and tough course so I was impressed with how well he bounced back.”

Savannah Gwin and Glock Pullman. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Savannah Gwin and her Glock Pullman, a 13-year-old Warmblood (Coriall x Ahdonna Pullman) captured second place on a score of 31.3.

Megan Compton and Coco Mademoiselle W. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Megan Compton was third with Coco Mademoiselle W,  her 9-year-old Westphalian (Coronas 2 x Sierra). This pair climbed from fifth after dressage, going double clear in both jumping phases for a final result of 31.8.

Go Twin Rivers. Go Eventing.

[Nothing Can Stop Smith and Mai Baum in the Twin Rivers CCI3*-L]

Halliday-Sharp Can’t Be Beat in Ocala CCI3*-L, Kieffer Wins CCI2*-L

By on Apr 14, 2019 10:38 pm -

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Flash Cooley. Photo by Lisa Madren.

A quick scan of Liz Halliday-Sharp‘s recent record shows a dizzying collection of first, second and third place finishes — she is currently the top rider in the country on USEA’s leaderboard with 262 points, after all.

Liz seems to have produced the magic formula to get her whole string to peak at the same time, and this weekend at The Ocala International Three-Day Event was no exception. She held both first and second place in the CCI3*-L from post to pillar.

This weekend’s big equine winner is Pru Dawes’ Flash Cooley a 7-year-old Irish Sport Horse (CSF MR Kroon X Castlefield Ruby). “Casper” didn’t put a foot wrong all weekend to finish on his dressage score of 23.8.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Quicksilver. Photo by Lisa Madren.

In similar fashion, stablemate Cooley Quicksilver, an 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Womanizer X Kylemore Crystal, by Creggan Diamond) owned by the The Monster Partnership also achieved an FOD on a penalty-free score of 27.3.

Jessica Phoenix and Bentley’s Best. Photo by Lisa Madren.

Bentley’s Best moved into fourth after a double clear show jumping with Jessica Phoenix in the tack. The Bentley’s Best Group’s 12-year-old Trakehner earned a final result of 29.2.

Lesley Grant-Law and Lady Chatterley. Photo by Lisa Madren.

Lesley Grant-Law and Lady Chatterley, an 8-year-old Holsteiner (Connor 48 x Jucy, by Mytens xx),  jumped clear for fourth place with 30.1 penalty points.

This three-star class is brimming with talented jumpers as 15 of the 29 finishers managed double clear rounds.

Lauren Kieffer and Get Gaudi. Photo by Lisa Madren.

Chris Barnard’s show jumping track changed the look of the CCI2*-L division where Lauren Kieffer and Get Gaudi emerged as the winners.

Jacqueline Mars’ 8-year-old KWPN (Alicante HBC x Second Floor, by Faram) made skillful work of all three phases, adding nothing to his dressage score of 27.7 in his FEI debut.

Will Coleman and Cooley Mahgeeta. Photo by Lisa Madren.

Another double clear round bumped Will Coleman and Teresa Loughin’s Cooley Mahgeeta, a 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Master Imp x Kilnamac Misty, by Clover Hill), to the second place finish on 28.4 points.

Kyle Carter and Gaillard Lancer. Photo by Lisa Madren.

Just 0.4 show jumping time penalties put Kyle Carter behind Will, but he still managed an impressive third with Gaillard Lancer in the 45-entry division. Brandon Blackstock’s 8-year-old KWPN (Diarado x Urlanta, by Flemmingh) now boasts two top three finishes at this level after today’s result of 28.5.

Caroline Martin and her Cristano Z were fourth on a score of 29.3, and Liz Halliday-Sharp was fifth with Pru Dawes’ Duiske Abbey on 29.5.

Ocala International CCI & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Sunday Video: First Look at 2019 Land Rover Kentucky CCI5*-L Cross Country

By on Apr 14, 2019 11:00 am -

2019 LRK3DE Cross-Country Course Preview

Here it is! The #2019 LRK3DE Cross-Country Course preview. Enjoy! Will YOU be here watching? #BestWeekendAllYear!Tickets: www.kentuckythreedayevent.com/tickets

Posted by Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event on Friday, April 12, 2019

The 2019 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by MARS Equestrian is officially less than two weeks away, which means EN is officially in freak out mode.

Thankfully, LRK3DE has published a cross country course preview to quell our excitement. Lisa Barry and course designer Derek di Grazia take us around a few key combinations as course begins to take its final shape.

The countdown is on for The Best Weekend All Year! Keep it locked on EN for all the latest and greatest from the first five-star of the year.

Go eventing.

LRK3DE: Entries, Website, Schedule, EN’s Coverage

 

Twin Rivers XC Report: Lauren Billys & Castle Larchfield Purdy Secure CCI4*-S Win

By on Apr 14, 2019 9:00 am -

Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy continued their dominance of the CCI4*-S Saturday at Twin Rivers Spring International Event in Paso Robles, California, where bold cross country riding tied a big, beautiful bow on their wire-to-wire win in the division.

Any big success like this is special, but this one even more so for the Puerto Rican rider. It marked “Purdy’s” triumphant return to full health after a colic surgery last fall, and it officially qualified for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

“That horse has such courage and bravery and even when I’m hesitant he gives me the feeling that I can be brave with him. I just love riding him,” Lauren said to the USEA. ““I can’t believe he’s back, he’s really back. I started tearing up as I came across the finish line. I have a really great group of owners behind him and they love him. It’s been really cool to honor them and honor Purdy along the way.”

Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

The  17-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Karistos x Hallo Purdy, by Hallo), owned by the rider and Purdy Syndicate LLC, soared around James Atkinson’s track with ease, adding just 0.8 time penalties to their dressage score for a final result of 30.6.

“It was important for me to finish on a score that would be competitive anywhere. I feel like I did that – I finished on my best score yet. That made me feel excited for him. Like a fine wine, he just keeps getting better!”

Liza Horan and Lafite. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Bold cross country riding moved Liza Horan right into second place aboard her own Lafite. She and the 12-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Linaro x Sundrift Sandal) jumped clear with 18 time penalties to close the weekend on 66.8 points.

A runout at fence 11B dropped Leah Breakey and Master Class, her 10-year-old Canadian Warmblood gelding (Cree x Night Destiny xx), into third on a final score of 83.9, and Derek di Grazia decided to call it a day with Ringwood Justice, his 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Ringwood Harley Carol x Ringwood Venus), after having at stop in the sunken road.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith kept a tight grip on the top three CCI3*-L spots after cross country day. She still leads with heartthrob Mai Baum, a 13-year-old German Sport Horse (Loredano x Ramira, Rike), who finished one second behind the clock for a two-day score of 25.3. Tamie holds the next two placings with Ruth Bley’s En Vogue (25.6) and Judy McSwain’s Fleecework’s Royal (29.7), who both went double clear.

Shannon Lilley and Greenfort Carnival. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Shannon Lilley and Greenfort Carnival, a 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Aughrim Knight x Easkey Princess) owned by Shannon and Cassandra Ertl, slowly climbed the ranks this weekend in the CCI3*-S division, starting in fourth after dressage, and ending with a win on their dressage score of 34.8. This was the geldings first international win, and a solid finish as he next heads to his Advanced debut at Woodside.

Liza Horan and Jennifer Salinger’s Hollister 13. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Liza Horan and Jennifer Salinger’s Hollister 13 were second on 41.1., and Jess Hargrave was third with her own Regenmann (46.3).

Marc Grandia and Campari FFF . Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Marc Grandia piloted Team Rebecca’s Campari FFF to a win of the Advanced division in the horse’s debut at the level. The 9-year-old Holsteiner added six time penalties to finish on 49.6.

The CCI3*-L and CCI2*-L riders now move onto the show jumping phase. Don’t forget it watch it live right here on EN starting at 12:50 p.m. local/3:50 p.m. EST for the two-star and 2:35 p.m. local/5:35 p.m. EST for the three-star.

[Victory is Sweet for Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy in the Twin Rivers CCI4*-S]

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Apr 14, 2019 12:01 am -

Lauren Kieffer and Get Gaudi. Photo by Lisa Madren.

Upper-level riders are prepared to handle nearly anything that comes at them on cross country: bad weather, icky footing, naughty horses and, apparently, reptiles. As Lauren Kieffer approached fence 16 on the CCI2*-L course, she noticed something near the base of the fence. Possibly a ground line? No, she decided, when it started slithering. Lauren admits she “screamed like a little girl,” but she still cleared the fence like a warrior.

National Holiday: National Pecan Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Ocala CCI & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times][Live Stream] [Live Scores]

Twin Rivers CCI & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Plantation Field H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

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

Sunday Links: 

Going to LRK3DE? Here’s What Not to Miss

The Method Behind the Madness: 10 Questions with Course Designer James Atkinson

Fair Hill Foundation Inc. Updates

Horse Sport Ireland in running for two sport industry awards

Importing A Horse Off A Video: A Cautionary Tale

Horsemen Want To Know How Brexit Will Affect The Horse Industry

Sunday Video: 

Queen Elizabeth Stakes

RACE REPLAY: In her career finale WINX wins the Queen Elizabeth Stakes. That's what we wanted. Video by Sky Racing // #gowinx #winxhorse

Posted by WINX – official on Friday, April 12, 2019