Articles Written 1,371
Article Views 3,387,284

Shelby Allen

Achievements

Become an Eventing Nation Blogger

About Shelby Allen

Latest Articles Written

Cooley SRS, Vinci de la Vigne Sold to Top International Riders

Astier Nicolas and Vinci de la Vigne (FRA). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

With the 2020 Tokyo Olympics on the horizon, we will see two equine powerhouses competing under a new flag in 2019. Australian Hazel Shannon has gotten the ride on Cooley SRS, and Vinci de la Vigne will join Kazuma Tomoto’s string.

Oliver Townend announced yesterday that his European gold medalist Cooley SRS has been sold to Australian Terry Snow, who is giving the ride to two-time Adelaide winner Hazel Shannon.

Cooley SRS and Oliver Townend at Badminton. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Formerly owned by Angela Hislop, the 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse (Ramiro B x Ballynattin Pride, by Kiltealy Spring) competed successfully through CCI4* level with Oliver, finishing second at Badminton this spring. The pair were also were part of the European gold medal winning team at Strzegom in 2017.

Oliver’s statement pointed to ‘mixed emotions’ on the sale. “Since ‘Aero’ came to us as a 4-year-old he has not only proven to be an astounding athlete, but also a very dear friend to myself, Angela (Hislop, his owner) and our whole team.”

“It’s very sad to see a top class horse, particularly one that finished runner up in his first 4* at Badminton this year, leave the yard and Britain – but, at the same time, his sale enables Angela to invest in another future star.”

Hazel recently became the second rider to win The Australian International Three-Day Event twice with Willingapark Clifford, who is also owned by Terry.

“I’m extremely happy to see him go to a lovely home with Terry Snow, who is a huge supporter of equestrianism,” Oliver said. “I hope that Cooley SRS will bring as much pleasure to Terry and his new rider, Hazel Shannon, as he has done to both myself and Angela, and I wish them every success.”

Astier Nicolas and Vinci de la Vigne (FRA). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Laurent Bousquet with Francecomplet.fr reported this week that Vinci de la Vigne has been acquired by the Japanese Federation with Kazuma Tomoto picking up the ride.

The 9-year-old Selle Francais has competed successfully through the CCI3* level with Frenchman Astier Nicholas, most recently finishing 7th at the World Equestrian Games. Esterel des Bois SF x Korrigane de Vigne SF, by Duc du Hutrel).

Ahead of the 2018 season, Astier explained to Grand Prix Replay that he and the shared owners Philippe and Marie-José Gerard planned to aim for WEG and sell the gelding afterwards.

Kazuma, who is based with William Fox-Pitt, now further strengthens the increasingly impressive Japanese team, who finished fourth at WEG, ahead of their hosting the Olympic Games.

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: Snow Days Off

A day off is a foreign suggestion for most professional riders, and a bit of foul weather won’t stop an eventer from getting their daily tasks finished — even it is snowing on grid day. Laura Collett is taking a snowy plunge headfirst into the offseason, and we just want to know how she keeps the snowballs out of the horse’s feet?

Go eventing.

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

Sir Rockstar getting some love at Pine Top Farm. Photo via Erin Jarboe’s Facebook Page.

While it’s no longer the final event of the year, Pine Top’s Thanksgiving HT is always the happiest season wrap up for me. This is one of my favorite events of the year. We always went with a group of friends right after the holiday, so it felt like a family affair. Congratulations to all who had a great weekend!

National Holiday: Giving Tuesday

There are no events opening or closing this week. Countdown to the 2019 season starts… now!

Tuesday News: 

Poland has earned another Olympic qualifier at the Equestrian Festival Baborówka. This offers C group athletes a valuable chance to represent their country on the biggest stage. The event will be held May 23-26, 2019. [From Baborówka to the Olympic Games in Tokyo 2020]

If you’re like me, and bummed to be missing the USEA Convention, then you’re in luck because they’re live streaming it! Some content will be open to all, and others will only be available to members, so be sure to renew your membership before next week. [USEA to Live Stream the 2018 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention]

A study in Denmark is hoping to shine more light on the issue of rider weight. Participants wore weighted vests over a period of two months, and the researchers are now analyzing the data. [Rider weight: Researchers hope study will cast light on thorny issue]

The Hill family is at it again! Last November EN profiled Katherine and Bruce Hill, a brother-sister duo from Area V for whom eventing — and volunteering — is a family affair. Now the whole Hill family has a new goal: to run to half of the L.A. Marathon in March 2019 with Team World Vision to help provide clean water for children in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Today, on Giving Tuesday, any donations made to their accounts will be doubled by Team World Vision. This means that if someone donates $50, which provides clean water for one person for life, that donation will be matched so now two people will be receiving clean water for life. Can you help the cause? [Katherine’s Team World Vision donation page]

Another way to lend a helping hand on Giving Tuesday: It’s getting cold outside, and the horses of Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation are in need of extra care. The Foundation’s goal is to raise $9,000 to purchase new run-in sheds and a round pen for the Sanctuary Herds. Make a donation today to their “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” campaign, if you can! [Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation]

Tuesday Video: 

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

The Charbonnet Sport Horses Crew. Photo by Jane Allen.

Being home for Thanksgiving meant I got to spend some time with my old retired guy (fourth from the left) who lives a happy, fat life at my parent’s farm. He got to hangout with a few cool Thoroughbreds who were having their first outing since coming off the track last month. Fortunately, the young guys were perfectly behaved, whereas mine was feral! I’m thankful that he’s still got so much spunk, but I honestly could’ve lived with a little less excitement.

National Holiday: National Parfait Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

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

Sunday Links 

Through the Lens: 2018 Ocala Jockey Club International Three-Day Event

USEA’s Eventing Hall of Fame: Class of 2015

The medal-winning event horse with a spooky connection to his rider’s family

A Naked Foxhunter’s Wild Nevada Adventure

Need an electrocardiogram on your horse? There’s a phone app for that

FEI Terminates Agreements With AQHA and NRHA

Sunday Video:

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: Hang On! Even More Helmet Cams From Ocala Jockey Club

OK you might be a little tired of seeing stuff about Ocala Jockey Club, but we’re facing the grim reality of the end of the season! So let’s enjoy a few more helmet cam views of the beautiful Ocala landscape with Doug Payne. Doug was second in the CCI2* with Starr Witness and 14th in the CCI* with Cascor. The countdown to the 2019 season starts NOW!

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

Boyd Martin and Christine Turner at the ATA Annual Meeting. Photo courtesy of the American Trakehner Association.

Congratulations are in order for Tsetserleg, who won The American Trakehner Association’s Special Director’s Award this week. This is a $10,000 prize awarded to the owner, Christine Turner, for Thomas representing at the 2018 World Equestrian Games. Tim Holekamp was also recognized as the breeder of the 11-year-old Trakehner (Windfall x Thabana, by Buddenbrock). Congratulations, all!

National Holiday: National Absurdity Day

There are no events opening or closing this week! Welcome to the winter eventing break, EN!

Tuesday News:

Matt Brown gets brilliantly honest in his latest blog where he discusses living with the highs and the lows of our sport. He opens a frank discussion of dealing with the feelings associated with trying to reach your full potential. You can’t miss this piece. [A Case For Not Focusing on Your Goals: Part 1]

Get in the Christmas spirit every single day next month thanks to Horse & Hound. The cover of their next issue will be an advent calendar with beautiful illustration from Norman Thelwell. [Horse & Hound’s advent calendar cover: open the doors every day until Christmas]

The 2019 US Equestrian Annual Meeting is heading to sunny West Palm Beach. It will be held January 19-21. All the movers and shakers of equestrian sport will be there, and there are plenty of interesting topics including SafeSport, building equestrian business, grassroots of the sport and more! [2019 US Equestrian Annual Meeting]

The Horse Radio Network Radiothon is one week away. Tune in on Monday Nov. 26 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST.; EN’s Leslie Wylie and HN’s Kristen Kovatch are co-hosting the final hour. You can listen live here  or on the free Horse Radio Network Phone App — search Horse Radio Network in the IOS or Google Play store. Call in for a chance to win over $4,000 in Prizes on Radiothon Day: 435-272-1997. [HRN Radiothon]

Tuesday Video:

Horse of the Month | Sam

It had to be… the one and only, Sam! This month, we say goodbye to an FEI Eventing legend as he retires from competition! A bittersweet moment, we wish this double Olympian and arguably one of the best horses of all time, a brilliant retirement. ❤️Let's all raise a carrot to Sam! 🥕🥂Full facts 👉 https://www.fei.org/stories/horse-of-the-month-sam

Posted by Fédération Equestre Internationale on Tuesday, November 13, 2018

Sunday Video from Total Saddle Fit: OCJ CIC3* Clubhouse Water Complex

It’s been a marathon weekend at the Ocala Jockey Club with CCI*, CCI2* CCI3* and CIC3* divisions all running. While the three-day competitors show jumped today, the CIC3* riders left the start box for cross country, and RNS Video streamed it live. Liz Halliday-Sharp sealed the deal on a wire-to-wire win with Fernhill By Night. We will have a full report later today, but in the meantime relive the action from the Clubhouse water complex!

Specifically for eventers, the StretchTec Shoulder Relief Girth now comes in two shades of brown to match monoflap jump saddles! Let your horse move more freely and breathe easier by using the same girth as Tamra Smith. See them all here: totalsaddlefit.com

Hazel Shannon Captures Second Adelaide CCI4* Win in Historic Finish

Hazel Shannon and Willingapark Clifford. Photo by Julie Wilson Photography.

Hazel Shannon and Willingapark Clifford made history Sunday at the Australian International Three-Day Event when they became the first pair to pick up a second CCI4* win at Adelaide (2016 & 2018).

Girl power has bee the theme of 2018 (Ros Canter, double world champion; Jonelle Price, back-to-back four-star winner), and Hazel continued the trend at Adelaide, leading the charge of the first ever all-female top ten in a CCI4*.

“It feels great, as good as the first time,” Hazel said. “I’m still in disbelief.  Willingapark Clifford performs best when he’s fresh, and he loves Adelaide.”

In second place after cross country, Hazel and Terrence Snow’s 13-year-old Thoroughbred had two poles down, making Hazel the fourth rider to ever have 8 penalties in the final phase of a four-star and still win. They finish on a score of 59.5.

Amanda Pottinger and Just Kidding. Photo by Julie Wilson Photography.

Overnight leader and CCI4* first-timer Amanda Pottinger had four down with Just Kidding, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred (Fusaichi Pegasus x Gypsy Princess, by Sadler’s Wells) owned by the Pottinger family. She ended in second place on a final result of 63.2.

Two rails and three time penalties moved Sonja Johnson and Misty Isle Valentino, a 10-year-old Arabian Warmblood (Tani Mani Dances With Wolves x Valuka, by Stirling Lukas) owned by the rider and Phoebe Johnson into third. They had a final score of 78.8.

Of the 24 starters, 11 — all women — finished the Australian four-star. Emily Gray and Jocular vision were 4th after having two down and five time penalties (80.3), and Hayley Frielick was fifth with Class Action JP on 90.3.

Click here to see the final results.

Adelaide Links: Website, Results

[History is made]

 

 

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

View this post on Instagram

@lkieffer has her hands full with this one 😂

A post shared by Jj (@skipperdoodlefritz) on

JJ Silliman captured this amazing photo yesterday at the Ocala Jockey Club start box, and I’m having trouble picking my favorite part. Maybe it’s the determination in the horse’s eye that he will make the decisions. Or the look on Lauren’s face — I’m assuming she’s coming to the realization that she has to pilot this thing around the course once he lands on the ground. But I think really it might have to be that the timer looks like he’s shielding his eye from the drama. What a fantastic photo!

National Holiday: Mickey Mouse’s Birthday

Major Weekend Events:

Ocala Jockey Club: Website, Live Scores, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

U.S. Weekend Action:

Fresno County Horse Park H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Sunday Links:

World Equestrian Games: Is this the end of the line?

Winning racehorse with only one ear captures public’s imagination

Horses, Hotels And Casinos! Behind The Scenes At The Las Vegas National

O’Neal and Fury H Blaze Around Ocala Jockey Club CCI**

Plans For Horse Park In West Virginia Put Into Action

Amanda’s Adelaide after cross country!

Five Things The Great British Baking Show Has Taught Me About Riding

Sunday Video: 

The Future of WEG In Question as FEI Opens Bidding Process for Individual Championships

WEG 2018 may be over and out, but there’s still plenty to contemplate as we look back on the Games. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Today the FEI quietly acknowledged the potential abandonment of a central World Equestrian Games in favor of  individual discipline championships. This was agreed upon during discussions held at the in-person FEI Bureau meeting of the FEI General Assembly in Manama, Bahrain.

The FEI confirmed that they have opened the bidding process for the 2022 FEI World Equestrian Games twice, but this did not produce any “realistic” bids.

Because of this, the Bureau unanimously agreed to open a bidding process for individual world championships in all divisions for 2022. They also included that multi-discipline bids would receive preference, and that dressage and para dressage should be combined.

This decision comes as both 2014 and 2018 World Equestrian Games have received criticism, calling the sustainability of a 7-discipline world championship into question.

In an FEI document, FEI President Ingmar de Vos was attributed as saying that this decision, “does not necessarily mean the end of the FEI World Equestrian Games™ and bids to host the full seven-discipline Games for 2022 and 2026 will be considered.”

The statement continued in addressing the importance of world championships as part of the Olympic movement: “Securing world championships for 2022 in the Olympic and Paralympic disciplines was crucial as these serve as qualifiers for the Paris 2024 Games.”

Also discussed at the Bureau meeting today was the 2018 WEG at the Tryon International Equestrian Center. Tim Hadaway, the FEI Games Operations Director, provided the Bureau with a detailed report that has not been made available to the public.

According to the document summarizing the Bureau’s meeting, the report weighed the successes and failures of WEG by, “highlighting the quality of the sport delivery and the sport itself (with the exception of Endurance), but also the areas of concern, particularly late delivery of the venue facilities.”

Going forward from here, all interested hosts should submit expressions of interest by February 2019. Workshops with bidders would follow, and the bids would be considered throughout 2019. Decisions based on bids received can be expected by the in-person Bureau meeting next November.

[Main Decisions From FEI Bureau Meeting, Manama (BRN), 17 November 2018]

 

Ocala Jockey Club CCI3*/CCI2* Cross Country Live Updates

Fence 23ABC – Clubhouse Water. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Welcome, EN, to cross country day at Ocala Jockey Club! We’re pleased to be bringing you all the action from both the CCI3* and the CCI2*.

Kristen Bond and Liz Bond’s Enough Already are your three-star dressage leaders, and they are slated to run at 1:23 p.m. Meanwhile, Alex O’Neal and Fury H lead the two-star group.

Both the CCI3* and the CCI2* are streaming live on EQTV Network with commentary from our own Jenni Autry, and we’ll be bringing you live updates here, so keep updating this page for all the latest.

Update 2:04: We’re about to get started with the CCI2*, so If you missed the CCI3* keep scrolling to the bottom to catch up on the action.

#OJC3DE Links: Website, Cross Country Start Times, Live Scores, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

Katherine Coleman and Monte Classico have taken over the lead of the CCI3*, and Alex O’Neal kept his lead of the CCI2* with Fury H. Stay tuned for the report soon!

CCI2* Live Updates 2

4:13 The time was easy to catch, and the top of the CCI2* remains relatively unchanged.

4:13 Nilson is home clear with Cash.

4:12 Little close for Nilson at the corner out of the final water, but the horse’s shoulder was inside the flags.

4:11 John Holling and Dushi Terma finish clear inside the time.

4:10 Nilson Moreira Da Silva and Cash having a runout at the angled brush. They’re the final pair on course.

4:09 Dushi Terma gives Jon Holling a wild ride into the water, but they’re clear through the corner out.

4:07 Final rider, Allie Knowles has fallen from Business Class at fence two. Arden Wildasin also had an issue there, so we are suspecting that the light is making that tricky.

4:06 Don Dante again with a bold jump into the final water.

4:05 Leslie Law and First Class home 5 seconds inside the time.

4:02 Jon Holling and Dushi Terma off to a good start! We’re nearing the end of this division.

4:00 Don Dante with a big beautiful jump into the first water. He looks very keen!

4:00 Leslie did the angled brush in a beautiful two, where many have done three.

3:58 Leslie Law just loosing his balance into the first water with First Class, but to be fair to him, he’s ridden a lot of horses out here today!

3:58 Will Coleman off and away with Don Dante

3:57 Jade Anderson and Fernhill Oreo with a beautiful three strides in the angled brush.

3:55 Katie Ruppel has decided to retire Greek Empire on course.

3:55 Leslie Law is on course with First Class.

3:53 Katie Ruppel and Greek Empire have had a runout at the brush at 13.

3:52 Alex O’Neal and Fury H are clear! They’ll hold their lead into the final phase.

3:51 BT Just a Rebel is happy to just lave one out at the Elephant Trap. Hang on Lila!

3:51 Alex is clear through the final combination. He’s one from home and is looking good on the time.

3:50 Lila Gendal and BT Just A Rebel are sailing around this track

3:49 Katie Ruppel and Greek Empire are off and away.

3:48 Arden has a very positive ride through the final water. You can see the shadows changing on course, so it’s possible the light affected visibility where she had her early stop.

3:46 Kim Liddell is home clear inside the time.

3:46 Lila Gendal and BT Just A Rebel have a great ride through the elephant trap.

3:44 Kim Liddell hasn’t gotten a lot of screen time, but the snippets have been very impressive riding.

3:43 Overnight leader Alex O’Neal is on course with Fury H. He has to make the time to keep his lead.

3:42 Robin Walker and SBT Barolo are continue to have a very confident round in the horse’s debut at the level.

3:41 Hallie is home clear. She’s had a super cross country day in Florida.

3:40 Arden Wildasin has picked up a stop at the second fence with Il Vici.

3:38 Robin Walker and SBT Barolo take the long route at the first water.

3:36 Hallie Coon has a super ride through the offset hedges, and she’s been pulled up on a hold as they repair the frangible pin at 19.

3:34 Ashley Johnson and Firefly have picked up 11 penalties for activating the frangible pin at the Elephant Trap.

3:34 Hallie Coon and Cooley SOS have a big jump into the first water.

3:33 Lindsay has a great ride through the final water.

3:31 Ashley Johnson and FireFly making the double wedges look easy.

3:29 Lindsay has had a runout at fence 13, those have caused a lot of issues today.

3:27 Lindsay Traisnel and Bacyrouge clear through the first water.

3:25 Joe Meyer shares a few reminders with Gortglas Crazy Love, and they’re clear through the first water.

3:23 Allie and Casarino have continued to go clear. I should add that this grey horse is absolutely sparkling! Shout out to her groom!

3:21 Stephanie Goodman and Drs Resolute have had a runout at fence 7. She’s clear on second attempt.

3:20 Maya has a super ride through the final water.

3:19 Allie Knowles is back with fifth-placed Casarino.

3:18 Maya Black and FE Black Ice clear through the offset hedges.

3:17 MGH Heartbeat looking full of running for Justine.

3:17

View this post on Instagram

@lkieffer has her hands full with this one 😂

A post shared by Jj (@skipperdoodlefritz) on

3:15 We’re getting out first sighting of Justine Dutton and MGH Heartbeat, who has quite the incredible gallop.

3:13 We can confirm that Doug and Starr Witness did make the time, so he’s our provisional leader. Alex O’Neal is the only rider who could beat him now.

3:12 Uprising does a flyby at the offset hedges with Waylon.

3:10 Gabrielle Ruane has jumped clear, and becomes the provisional leader as we wait for confirmation on Doug’s time.

3:10 Hang on there Waylon! Uprising jumps like a rocket into the first water.

3:09 Starr Witness plops a big into the final water, but makes it to the corner out easily.

3:07 Rebecca Hoos and Little Cruz are clear through the tricky combination at 13.

3:06 We’re watching Doug cut corners in his usual style to gain some time.

3:05 4.4 time penalties for Lesley and Lady Chatterley.

3:05 Will Coleman currently leads, but Gabrielle Ruane and Doug Payne, who are both on course, could go ahead of him with a clear round.

3:03 Lesley and Lady Chatterley keep looking more and more confident after each fence. A really great round!

3:01 Second-placed Starr Witness and Doug Payne are off to a good shot with a textbook performance through the first combination.

2:59 We finally get a view of fence 13 that’s caused so much trouble, and we saw Lesley Grant-Law and Lady Chatterley tackle it easily.

2:58 Crimson has put the breaks on at the jump in of the final water. She and Shelby are clear on second attempt, but now have 40 penalties.

2:56 Oh no! Clark Montgomery and Caribbean Soul have had a run out at fence 13. He decided to call it a day.

2:54 Shelby and Crimson have had a stop at those pesky brushes at 13.

2:52 Shelby Brost and Crimson just skip through the first water.

2:52 Clark Montgomery off to a super start with this exciting Thoroughbred Caribbean Soul.

2:50 Natasha has been eliminated with a third refusal at fence 17.

2:49 Natasha has had a second runout at fence 14.

2:48 Natasha Erschen and FE Gran Torino become another pair to have a runout at the brush at 13.

2:47 Now we’re hearing Arden game home clear 41 seconds inside the time. I would agree with our commentators, she didn’t look too fast, so I think the time is proving easy today.

2:46 Arden Wildasin is having a very efficient round.

2:46 Sinead Halpin has picked up 20 jumping penalties with Cutty Sark. Not sure where yet.

2:45 A beautiful ride for Briggs Surratt and Bright Water at fence 14.

2:42 Sinead gets a great shot over the running rails.

2:41 Will Coleman and TKS Cooley come home in an incredible 9 minutes and 31 seconds. The optimum time is 10 minutes.

2:29 Arden Wildasin and APOGEE get just a little quick to the B element of fence four.

2:38 Sinead Halpin is clear through the first water with Cutty Sark.

2:37 La Paz jumping the high side of the angled brush, but getting it done.

2:36 Sara Mittleider and La Paz have a runout at 13, the same spot where Leslie had his runout.

2:35 Jon Holling and Dalanteretto finish 20 seconds inside the time.

2:25 I missed this earlier, but now can confirm that Allie Knowles and Princess B did make the time. With two already going double clear, we can expect many more to do the same.

2:33 We haven’t seen much of her, but Dalanteretto looking really super through the water with Jon Holling in the mare’s CCi2* debut.

2:30 Sara Mittleider  and La Paz shows off his impressive scope over the third fence.

2:29 Nilson Moreira Da Silva  and Rock Phantom are off and away. They’re clear through the first combination.

2:27 Jade Anderson and Fernhill Q home 14 seconds inside the time.

2:26 TKS Cooley is looking very game at the first water!

2:24 Unfortunately Leslie Law and LCC Vogue have had a runout at fence 13. They were placed third after dressage, so we may be looking at a leaderboard shuffle today.

2:23 Allie and Princess B are home clear. Will Coleman and TKS Cooley have started.

2:22 Jade Anderson and Fernhill Q are making their CCI2* but have been looking brilliant around this track.

2:20 Third-placed Leslie Law and LCC Vogue are on course.

2:19 Allie and Princess B with a confident ride through the Elephant trap.

2:17 Jade Anderson and Fernhill Q are now off and away.

2:17 Allie gets a little stuck at the first water, but definitely responds afterward with forward riding.

2:24 We’re looking at a 10 minute course for this division, which is on the longer side for the two-star level, but with the ground being so good I am looking forward to seeing how that may affect times.

2:13 Pathfinders Allie Knowles and Princess B are off onto Clayton Frederick’s cross country course.

CCI3* Live Updates 

2:03 Your CCI3* Top Ten after cross country:

1:54 What a great day for the three-star riders! We’re just waiting on Lauren’s official time. Stay tuned as the two-star will start at 2:10!

1:52 Probably 10 or so seconds above the time for Lauren. That means Katherine Coleman and Monte Classico are your new CCI3* leaders!

1:51 Lauren has an absolutely beautiful ride through the final water, but she’s not looking like she’ll be quite fast enough to take the lead.

1:50 Lauren goes for a long one at the angled brush, and Paramount Importance steps up for her.

1:49 Joe Meyer and Johnny Royale pick up 5.6 time penalties.

1:47 Johnny Royale is another to hang a leg at the final water, and again his rider, Joe, sits strong to go clear.

1:46 Joe Meyer takes a careful look at his watch after the log to skinny brush combination at 22. He’s sitting on a Thoroughbred, so we’re hoping he can make the time.

1:46 Just lovely through the first water for Lauren Kieffer and Paramount Importance.

1:45 Kristen Bond seemed to be taking a bit of a detour before the last combination. It’s unclear if she took a wrong turn or potentially was having control problems.

1:44 Now the only rider who could take the lead from Katherine Coleman, Lauren Kieffer, is on course. It will be a race against the clock for her.

1:43 Ugh! A devastating runout for Kristen Bond at the brush at fence 20B. Katherine Coleman now currently take the lead in the division.

1:42 Joe Meyer and Johnny Royale taking a flying leap into the water. This horse is very keen!

1:41 Kristen sees a great shot through the Elephant trap, but she’s got to put the pedal down a little more to keep her lead.

1:40 Kristen is clear with the double corners.

1:39 We’ve only seen a few shots of Kristen and Enough Already, but they’re clear so far and looking quick!

1:39 Leslie Law has a runout at the angled brushes, the same fence where Jacob had a runout.

1:38 Jacob and Atlantic Domino clear through the final combination. We’re so bummed for him having that runout on course.

1:36 Hallie Coon and Lansdowne pick up just 4.4 time penalties. They’ve got the fastest ride of the day so far.

1:36 Oh dear. A runout at fence 20 for Jacob Fletcher and Atlantic Domino.

1:35 Overnight leaders Kristen Bond and Enough Already are on course!

1:35 Leslie has a beautiful ride through the first water!

1:33 Lansdowne is yet another horse to hang a leg in the clubhouse water. Hallie hangs on and jumps the C element with no stirrups. Good save!

1:32 Atlantic Domino proves how clever he is through the first water. They’re off to a great start.

1:31 Olympian Leslie Law now comes forward with Voltaire De Tre

1:30 Erin Sylvester and Paddy The Caddy have definitely had the best ride through the final water by the clubhouse so far.

1:29 Jacob Fletcher and Atlantic Domino are off to a very strong start!

1:28 Hallie Coon and Lansdowne looking scrappy, but super through the first water.

1:27 Oh dear. London Town hangs a leg over the middle element of the final water, and trips after, nearly unseating Alexis. They save it to go clear over the C element. Way to get it done!

1:26 Erin and Paddy The Caddy get a little too close for comfort to the middle element of the first water, but they get it done.

1:25 Official time in for Katherine Coleman. She and Monte Classico add 4.8 time penalties for a score of 34.5.

1:25 Hallie Coon is away with Lansdowne

1:24 London Town made the Elephant Trap look easy.

1:22 We’re also seeing our first sighting of Erin Sylvester and Paddy The Caddy. This is the only pair in the group who have previously won a CCI3*.

1:22 West coasters Alexis Helffrich and London Town clear through the first water, though just a little underpowered.

1:21 Katherine and Monte Classico home in what I’m expecting to be a quick time.

1:20 Kate Chadderton coming to grief at the corner at 13A with VS McCuan Civil Liberty. She retires after two run outs.

1:19 Monte Classico gets a little tied up with the middle element at the final water, but recovers very quickly.

1:18 Ellie and Zeta finish 39 seconds over the optimum time of 10 minutes.

1:17 Ellie is clear through the final water, but down on the clock at the moment. Meanwhile, Katherine is speeding up toward the end.

1:16 Beautiful going for Monte Classico! Easily tackles the double brush at 15ABC.

1:15 VS McCuan Civil Liberty is making his return to the CCI3* level for the first time since 2015 with Kate Chadderton riding.

1:14 Katherine kept a beautiful quiet balance through the first water. She’s clear so far.

1:12 Ellie is clear through the double corners at 13AB. This was a hugely influential combination last year, taking out some of the best.

1:11 Ellie and Zeta have a textbook performance through the first water at 11ABC.

1:11 Wow! The gallop on Monte Classico is enough to make you drool!

1:10 Katherine Coleman is circling the box now with Monte Classico, who is making his CCI3* debut.

1:08 Ellie makes quick work of the Turf Table Combo at fence 6ABC.

1:07 Ellie and Zeta are looking super across the first few fences.

1:05 Ellie O’Neal and Zeta are circling the box! Here we go.

1:01 Jenni Autry and Karen O’Connor are leading the way on the live stream with brilliant commentary. Check it out for some cool drone footage of the course as we await the start.

12:58 Looks like we’re just a few minutes delayed as we wait for the live stream to pick back up!

12:40 p.m. Click here for an order of go. First horse is off at 12:55 p.m.

Amanda Pottinger Leads Adelaide CCI4* After Dramatic Cross Country

Amanda Pottinger and Just Kidding. Photo courtesy of the Australian International Three-Day Event.

Amanda Pottinger and Just Kidding lead the Adelaide CCI4*after an exciting and somewhat controversial cross country day at the Australian International Three-Day Event.

Coming off the course, Amanda and the 12-year-old Thoroughbred (Fusaichi Pegasus x Gypsy Princess, by Sadler’s Wells) had 50 penalty points added to their score for jumping outside of the flag on fence 9C, a  brush corner, according to a report from New Zealand Horse & Pony. Second-placed Hazel Shannon was also given the same penalty at the same fence.

After reviewing video, the Ground Jury ultimately decided to remove the penalties for both riders giving us a sense of déjà vu after last year’s penalty controversy.

Four-star debutants, Amanda and “Ferg,” who is owned by the Pottinger Family, were in 8th place yesterday after scoring a 34.8 on the flat. The kiwi pair picked up 12.4 time penalties to go (almost) straight to the top as the second fastest of the day. They carry a score of 47.2 into the final phase.

Hazel Shannon and Willingapark Clifford. Photo courtesy of the Australian International Three-Day Event.

2016 winners Hazel Shannon and Willingapark Clifford, a 13-year-old Thoroughbred owned by Terrence Snow, are looking confident in second place on a current score of 51.5. They added 17.6 time penalties around Mike Etherington-Smith’s track to move up from fifth.

Emily Gray and Jocular Vision. Photo courtesy of the Australian International Three-Day Event.

Though they didn’t finish the day in the very top spot, Emily Gray and  Jocular Vision, a 14-year old Warmblood/Thoroughbred (Jubliee Bay x Pocohontas, by Domingo) made the incredible leap from last place to the top three after a challenging cross country test. They were the very fastest pair of the bunch in 11 minutes and 51 seconds for a two-day result of 67.3.

“I knew this wasn’t going to be a dressage competition for us, we were definitely looking ahead to the Cross Country,” Emily said. “I had my plan in my head. It was a tough track, I didn’t know what had happened out there, and I wanted to stick to my own plan.”

Mike Etherington-Smith’s track received rave reviews from competitors and fans. If you missed it, check out a fly-by at this link. Only half of the 24 starters finished. None finished within the time, but Emily Gray was the closest to the optimum time of 11 minutes 27 seconds.

Adelaide Links: Website, Cross Country Results, Dressage Results, Schedule

[What a difference a day makes (4* Cross Country results)]

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: A Happy Retirement for Super Sam

Ruhestand? Was ist das ?Sam hat einfach so einen Spaß auf unserer Geländewiese. Das will man ihm nicht nehmen 😉Auch wenn ich momentan leider nicht selbst im Sattel sitzen kann, macht es viel Freude ihn so gesund und munter zu sehen 🐴😍

Posted by Michael Jung on Monday, November 12, 2018

We learned this fall that the legendary La Biosthetique-Sam FBW was officially retiring from competition, but we are pleased to report that the Olympic champion is still in fighting form. Check him out stretching his legs across the Jung’s schooling field. This video will make your heart happy.

Here’s Michael’s translated statement from his Facebook Page: “Retirement? What is this? Sam just has such fun on our terrain meadow. You don’t want to take that (away from him). Even though I can’t sit in the saddle right now, it makes a lot of joy to see him so healthy and sound.”

Go Sam. Go Eventing.

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

Gemma Tattersall and Arctic Soul (GBR). Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Join Gemma Tattersall and Lynn Symansky for a luncheon this week! Ocala folks and Jockey Club visitors are welcomed to enjoy a Celebration of Women in Peak Performance Equestrian Sports Luncheon. Celebrate the women in our sport and discuss the current support system for female riders in our sport. The luncheon will be held Friday, Nov. 16. Admission is included with VIP package, and other tickets are available for $45 and can be found at this link. 

National Holiday: World Kindness Day

Events Closing This Week: Sporting Days Farm Horse Trials IV (SC, A-3)

Tuesday News:

Abscesses can be a nightmare for event riders, and they always seem to creep up at the worst possible time, like the day before a show. With a hoof abscesses poultice can be your best friend. [The Best Way to Treat an Abscess]

When it comes to blanketing, a new study finds that less is actually more. Horses have a larger range of a ‘thermoneutral zone’ or temperature at which their body is most comfortable. This means they can adjust to external temperature changes easier than humans. [Unnecessary rugging could compromise equine welfare, study finds]

Loch Moy Farm hosted their first Beginner Novice Three-Day Event last month, and Ella Lucas and Truthful Saint were the inaugural winners. Check out the recap and photos from USEA. [Memories Made in Maryland at MDHT’s First Classic Series Beginner Novice Three-Day]

Tuesday Video:

Ruhestand? Was ist das ?Sam hat einfach so einen Spaß auf unserer Geländewiese. Das will man ihm nicht nehmen 😉Auch wenn ich momentan leider nicht selbst im Sattel sitzen kann, macht es viel Freude ihn so gesund und munter zu sehen 🐴😍

Posted by Michael Jung on Monday, November 12, 2018

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

Photo via the USEA’s Facebook page, from the USEA Archives.

If you’re like me and have an interest in history, then you’ll love the posts the USEA does on their Facebook page every week for a Throwback Thursday! It’s a fun combination of throwback and eventing. The USEA has a massive archive of photos — prints and films! — from past decades, and they usually share these gems weekly. It’s especially fun to see how tack, attire and the fences themselves have changed over the years. Click here to like them on Facebook.

National Holiday: Veterans Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Full Moon Farms H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

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

Poplar Place Farm H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Texas Rose Horse Park H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Sunday Links: 

Grand Oaks Horse Trials Cancelled

Doping: The Figures Behind The Headlines at Tryon

Annie Joppe’s endurance blog: this year’s successes and failures

The unpalatable truth: Bits are linked to a host of behavioral and breathing issues

Remembering the war horses, 100 years on

Featured Clinician: Jim Wofford

USEA’s Eventing Hall of Fame: Class of 2012

Natalya Slipchenko And Drain’s Marlo Tommy Are Showing Off Percheron Power At U.S. Dressage Finals

Sunday Video: 

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: Virginia CCI2* Water Complex

Splish splash! RNS Video Media takes us to the picturesque Virginia CCI/CIC & Horse Trials to check out the CCI2* riders as they took on one of the water complexes of Andy Bowles’s cross country course. Let us know who you think rode it best.

If you missed any of the coverage of VAHT this weekend, you can catch up here. And be sure to check out the Virginia Horse Trial’s Facebook page for some beautiful photos by Leslie Threlkeld.

Virginia CCI, CIC, & H.T.: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scores

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

I had serious FOMO this weekend watching the Virginia Horse Trials action from afar. It became a favorite of mine when I was living in Virginia, and I’m looking forward to a return one day hopefully soon! Something about the autumn colors in the foothills makes my heart happy.

National Holiday: Voting Day! Don’t forget to get out to the polls today, EN.

Events Closing This Week: Grand Oaks H.T. (FL, A-3)  Pine Top Thanksgiving H.T. (GA, A-3)

Tuesday News: 

If you live in Maryland’s Anne Arundel County, don’t forget to rock the vote for Steuart Pittman! Perhaps best known for his work as founder of Retired Racehorse Project, Steuart now has his sights set on making a different kind of change in the world. He is a do-er, which led to his campaign to be elected Anne Arundel County Executive. The incumbent Executive, Steve Schuh, was bad news: a far right-wing Republican with a developer-funded agenda of unchecked, fiscally irresponsible growth. When nobody came forward to oppose him for reelection, Steuart reckoned that he was going to have to do it himself. You can read more about Steuart’s community-first platform via his campaign website. [Pittman for People]

I was riding horses when I was 15, but not 5-year-old at the YEH Championship! Emma Keahon was, and she was riding Dorry Gascon and Andrew Keahon’s 5-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding, PS Duty Calls. [Now on Course: Emma Keahon and PS Duty Calls]

Former four-star horse Idalgo was sadly euthanized this week. Ridden by William Fox-Pitt, “Frog” finished second at Badminton and won a European gold medal in 2009. He retired from eventing in 2010, and spend the rest of his life with William’s former pupil Alex van Tuyll, enjoying life and hunting. [Heartbreak as British team gold medallist dies: ‘He was cheeky, but never malicious’]

It’s nearly impossible to predict the outcomes of an entire season, and 2018 was no different. There were ups and downs and twists we couldn’t have thought up ourselves. Horse & Hound highlights the most memorable. [When the unexpected strikes… 11 surprises of the 2018 eventing season]

Tuesday Video: 

Sunday Video from Total Saddle Fit: No Stirrup November Inspo

Are you tackling No Stirrup November? Here are 4 videos to inspire you this month!

1. No stirrupless conversation is complete without mentioning Mark Todd’s epic Badminton completion with one stirrup. There are a million reasons to ride like Toddy, but this one has to top it:

2. Then of course there’s Louise Van Dijck, who reminded us a lot of Toddy this year at the Europeans where she also completed with one stirrup.

3. If anyone can set you straight about no stirrups, it’s George Morris:

5. A broken ankle could’ve sidelined Sydney Luzicka for the season, but she embodied her inner eventer to kick on without them.

Whether you’re hanging your stirrups up completely or just dropping them more regularly, Happy No Stirrup November!

Specifically for eventers, the StretchTec Shoulder Relief Girth now comes in two shades of brown to match monoflap jump saddles! Let your horse move more freely and breathe easier by using the same girth as Tamra Smith. See them all here: totalsaddlefit.com

Madison Temkin Leads Galway Downs CCI2*, Tie at The Top of CCI* After Cross Country

Madison Temkin and Dr. Hart. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Galway Downs is the final Area VI competition of the year, drawing in west coast riders for a world-class competition to close out the season across CCI2* and CCI* divisions.

Madison Temkin piloted her own Dr Hart to the top of the CCI2* leaderboard at Galway Downs after a foot-perfect cross cross country performance in the 11-year-old Thoroughbred’s debut at the level. The pair ride into the final phase on their dressage score of 32.7.

James Alliston and Pandora. Photo by Shelby Allen.

James Alliston and Laura Boyer’s Pandora follow in second place. The 8-year-old Swedish Warmblood has a pony-like appearance, but dismisses that quickly with her incredible talent over fences. She and James also remain on their dressage score of 34.6.

Returning to the west coast after a stint east, Mallory Hogan and Clarissa Purisima are in third with a super performance under the clock. They carry 35.1 points into the final phase.

Many in the division came out of the cross country relatively untouched as seven in the 10-horse division jumped double clear, but rails tend to fall easily on the third day, and no one at the top has room for error.

Megan Sykes and Classic’s Mojah. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

The tie for first place in the CCI* remains shared between Megan Skyes and Charlotte Babbitt after cross country — both remain on a score of 25.

Megan and Classic’s Mojah, a former dressage horse turned eventer, came home inside the time. The 9-year-old Oldenburg had a time of 6:54, which puts them slightly closer to the optimum time of 7 minutes 5 seconds if the tie continues after the final phase.

Charlotte and 2AM in the last combination of the CCI*

Posted by Chocolate Horse Farm on Saturday, November 3, 2018

Charlotte Babbitt and 2 A.M. looked fresh and ready in this morning’s horse inspection and will be looking to finish on their dressage score in their first CCI* completion.

Asia Vedder is waiting in the wings with Isi. They carry a 26.6 penalty points for third place. Auburn Excell-Brady is in fourth with BSP Tuxedo on 27.7, and Leigh Mesher is fifth with Finally DG on 27.9.

The one-star will jump in reverse order of standing at 11:30 a.m. PST/2:30 p.m. EST, and the two-star will follow at 2 p.m. PST/5 p.m. EST. You can watch the finale live thanks to Ride On Video.

Galway Downs CCI & H.T.: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scores, Live Stream

 

Boyd Martin Wins Virginia CIC2*, Sharon White Leads USEF CCI* Championship

Boyd Martin and Kyra. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

It was a good day at the office for Boyd Martin at the Virginia CCI/CIC & Horse Trials as he went went one-two in the CCI2*, while also winning the CIC2*.

Boyd stalked the top of the leaderboard after dressage, and after two masterful performances he sits first and second in the CCI2*. Division leader Barry, a 9-year-old Thoroughbred owned by Martin and Windurra USA, added 9.6 time penalties to sit on a score of 37.5. Second-placed Contestor, an 11-year-old KWPN owned by Denise Lahey, was a bit speedier with 8.8 time penalties for a day two score of 39.7.

“Barry is a legend. A year ago he was all over the shop. I had experts tapping me on the shoulder telling me it’s time for him to move on, but I knew he was just green and inexperienced,” he said. “[Today] he galloped strong all the way around and pulled up fresh. I think he’s in good shape to jump tomorrow.”

After a soggy rain, competitors battled muddy conditions which made the notorious Virginia Horse Trials terrain even trickier.

“Hats off to the course designer. Initially when I walked the track I thought he made it too soft. When I rode it I got a sudden change in mind. It rode a lot tougher than it walked,” Boyd said. “The direction of the track was much better going starting at the base of the hill and working your way up the mountain. It was a test of endurance and stamina and the rider that could pace their horse. It made the cross country phase more important than in past years. Especially for CCIs, it shouldn’t be a dressage show.”

Boyd also had the fastest round of the day with Christine Turner’s Kyra in the CIC2*, which secured him the win of the division. The 11-year-old Canadian Warmblood had 1.6 time penalties for a final result of 33.4.

“She’s a feisty red-head mare. It’s been up and down all year for her so it’s rewarding to finish the year well,” he said. “She’s a fantastic show jumper and cross country is her tougher point, so we’ve been schooling a lot. The rain overnight made the course challenging and to Kyra’s credit, she went out and fought hard all the way around.”

Allison Springer sits third in the CCI2* with Sapphire Blue B. The pair had 11.6 time penalties for a score of 40.9. Skeyler Voss and Argyle are third with 42 points after 9.2 time penalties, and Dasha Ivandaeva and DB Cooper are fifth on 42.6.

Sharon White and Masterel. Photo by Brant Gamma Photography.

John Michael Durr’s cross country course dissolved the three-way tie of the USEF CCI1* Eventing National Championship, and Sharon White emerged as the new leader with her and Denis Glaccum’s Masterel.

Sharon and the 9-year-old Italian Thoroughbred were fifth in the CCI1*-A group overnight and took over the one-star championship after a double clear cross country, which Sharon said felt easy for the leggy Thoroughbred. They remain on their dressage score of 28.8.

“This is the first time I have ever let him run because I basically have had 30 time penalties everywhere I’ve taken him,” she said. “He is a real racehorse, and I have spent all of this time just trying to help him relax and really be with me. He is an unbelievable horse. So it was really satisfying today to see if I could let him go and it was wonderful.”

Colleen Rutledge is currently second in the championship, which is awarded to the highest placed U.S. rider who is 22 or older, with C Me Fly. The 6-year-old Westphalian holds a score of 30.3.

Overnight leaders of CCI*-A, Ryan Wood and Ruby stayed in the top spot after cross country. Riding for Australia, Ryan isn’t eligible for the USEF championship, but he and the Summit Sporthorses’ 9-year-old Oldenburg had a fantastic 2.8 time penalties on cross country for a two-phase score of 25.4.

Kelsey Ann Quinn and Dandy Longlegs. Photo by Brant Gamma Photography.

Kelsey Ann Quinn also kept her lead of both the USEF CCI1*-JR/YR Eventing National Championship and the CCI*-B division with Dandy Longlegs, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred owned by Julie Quinn. 5.2 cross country time penalties gives them a current score of 32.9.

The show jumping finale gets underway this morning. You can follow the live scoring at this link.

[Sharon White Pulls Ahead After Cross-Country in the USEF CCI1* Eventing National Championship; Kelsey Ann Quinn Maintains the Lead in the USEF CCI1*-JR/YR Eventing National Championship]

[A Banner Day for Boyd Martin at Virginia CCI/CIC & Horse Trials]

 

 

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

Grooms are such an absolutely integral part of our sport, and the Liz Cochrane Memorial Award is one small recognition of their huge efforts. Help support this award by taking part in a jumper show at Mardanza Farm in Ocala, or you can donate at this link. Thanks to the many super grooms that keep eventing running!

National Holiday: National Candy Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Virginia CCI, CIC, & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

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

Full Gallop Farm November H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Galway Downs CCI & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Sunday Links: 

‘He was a glass half-full kind of guy’: eventer says sad farewell to four-star horse

Champions galore — the next generation of jockeys lines up at Olympia

There is More Than One Way: Thinking Outside of the Box to Finance Your Eventing Dreams

USEA Rule Refresher: Rule Changes Effective December 1, 2018

New independent testing lab for drug testing US sport horses

Sunday Video:

Jess Hargrave Heads Up Galway Downs CCI2*

Jess Hargrave and Regenmann at Galway Downs in 2017. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Jess Hargrave is all smiles after a division leading dressage test in the CCI2* with Regenmann, a horse who she once dismissed as, “too spooky to be a pure dressage horse.” The pair pulled off a 27.1 to top the 10-entry class.

“He just keeps getting better and better and I’m continuously so blessed, so thankful, and so beyond grateful for this ride,” Jess said of the 11-year-old Trakehner.

The division performed for judges Mark Weissbecker and Bea di Grazia Thursday, which gave Jess an extra day to assess the cross country challenge, which is designed by Jay Hambley and Bert Wood. “It’s big!” she said. ““With a lot of combinations early on. So, this is not going to be a dressage competition!”

Madison Temkin and her own Dr. Hart are second on a 32.70 — a personal best for this pair. “It’s the most rideable he’s ever been,” she said. “He’s really coming into his own and maturing,” she said.

Great Britain’s James Alliston sits third with a 34.6 with with the pocket-sized Pandora. “She can be a bit buzzy, but she can do it all, it’s just a matter of having her relaxed. She’s small but she has a big jump and lots of talent,” he said.

Charlotte Babbitt and 2 A.M. Photo by Kim F Miller.

Megan Noelle Skyes and Charlotte Babbit share the spotlight in the CCI* after identical dressage scores of 25 with their horses Classic’s Mojah and 2 A.M., respectively.

Megan and “Mo” look for a second one-star victory this weekend after they topped the competitive CCI* at Rebecca Farm this summer. The 9-year-old Oldenburg glided easily in the sandbox — he was a full time dressage horse earlier in his life under Steffen Peters’ tutelage, and Megan brought him over to the dark side three years ago.

Charlotte is also on a hot streak as her and “Abe,” earned a recent CIC* win at Woodside just last month.

Galway Downs has introduced a number of amenities this year, including the brand new Grand Prix area, which brings an entirely new level of atmosphere to the southern California venue.

You can watch the the cross country action live this weekend thanks to Ride On Video. Find the live stream schedule below:

Saturday — Cross Country
8:40 a.m. PST/11:40 a.m. EST Training 3-Day
10:50 a.m. PST/ 1:50 p.m. EST  CCI2*
12:10 p.m. PST/3:10 p.m. EST  CCI1*

Sunday — Show Jumping
10:00 a.m. PST/1 p.m. ESTTraining 3-Day
11:30 a.m. PST/ 2:30 p.m. EST CCI1*
2:00 p.m. PST/5 p.m. EST CCI2*

Galway Downs CCI & H.T.: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scores

Will Faudree Leads Virginia CCI2*, CCI* Championship All Tied Up

Will Faudree and FRH Ramona. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The Virginia CCI/CIC & Horse Trials have a packed house this weekend between their national levels, FEI divisions and a three-way tie for the USEF CCI* Eventing National Championship. Will Faudree currently leads the pack in the CCI2* with FRH Ramona.

The 8-year-old Hanoverian, who is owned by Jennifer Mosing and Sterling Silver Stables, was sourced by Francesca Pollara in Germany before finding her place with Will. Now, they’re polishing all the pieces, producing a score of 26.8 to lead the division.

“She can be very, very hot. She’s just gotten better each test this season. She really wants to please and wants to do things right but is very sensitive,” Will said. “[Recently], most of my tests were just going in and trying to keep it quiet and steady as possible. Today I felt like I’m starting to be able to ride her in the test and not just keep the lid on her.”

Terrain is always an influential factor at VHT, and riders, including Faudree, have to keep a careful eye on their gas tank while they navigate Andy Bowles’ challenging course.

“There’s plenty to do out there. It’s going to be about going out and making sure she’s in a good rhythm and not over using her in the beginning so I have horse at the end. I’m going to go out and go quick as I can. She’s still very new at this level. She’s a very brave, game horse cross country so it’s going to be about going out and getting into a rhythm and hopefully things go our way,” Will said.

Rebecca Brown and Dassett Choice. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Rebecca Brown and Dassett Choice jumped straight to the top of the CIC2* after textbook performances in the first two phases. She and the 9-year-old Dutch Warmblood danced for 29.3 and added nothing to it across Chris Barnard’s show jumping test.

“There is always more that you want and I still think there is a lot more in there for him, but he’s so professional. He makes my life really easy in there. He’s never wanted to touch a pole– if I ever have a rail, it’s my fault,” Rebecca said.

Dassett Choice joins the ever-growing group of top horses coming out of Kate Rocher-Smith’s Dassett Eventing in the UK. Joe Meyer introduced the pair, and it’s been smooth sailing since.

“He’s always been talented but I really liked his eye. He has a really soft, kind eye and I had ‘that feeling’ when I rode him,” Brown said. “I saved up money and then put a group of owners together and we bought him… we trotted our way around our first Novice. We’ve done everything together ever since.”

Kelsey Ann Quinn and Dandy Longlegs. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The one-star divisions are already competitive enough at VHT, and introducing a few national championships adds an extra level of excitement to the mix.

As leaders of the CCI*-B division, Kelsey Ann Quinn and Dandy Longlegs also head up the USEF CCI1*-JR/YR Eventing National Championships. The 16-year-old rider piloted the 12-year-old Thoroughbred to a 27.7 in the first phase.

“We’ve been working on better lengthenings and trying to have a good consistent ride and keep him as calm as possible. He couldn’t have been better,” she said.

Three riders earned a 28.3 for a three-way tie in the division as well as atop the USEF CCI1* Eventing National Championship. It’s split between Ariel Grald with Monbeg Game Face, Sharon White with Highlife’s Je T’aime, and Colleen Rutledge with C Me Fly.

Meanwhile in the CCI*-A group, Ryan Wood sits in the top spot with Summit Sporthorses’ Ruby. The 9-year-old Oldenburg, who is a half sibling to Ryan’s CCI3* ride, Powell, earned a 22.6 on the flat. Because Ryan rides under the Australian flag (though he has been invited to join the stars and stripes squad unofficially by EN), he’s not in contention for the USEF CCI* Championships this weekend, but he’ll still be hunting the win in this one-star class.

The upcoming jumping phases will prove extremely influential for this championship, which is awarded to the highest-placed U.S. rider who is at least 22. They’ll set out on the cross country course today at 1 p.m.

Virginia CCI, CIC, & H.T.: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scores

[Faudree Leads CCI2*, Three-Way Tie in USEF CCI1* Eventing National Championships]

[Three-Way Tie for First in the USEF CCI1* Eventing National Championship; Kelsey Ann Quinn Tops the Leaderboard in USEF CCI1*-JR/YR Eventing National Championship at the Virginia Horse Trials]