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Winner Winner Chicken Dinner! Pine Top + Ocala Intermediate Recap

By on Feb 11, 2018 6:30 pm -

It was a big weekend in Area III as heavy hitters came out swinging at both Pine Top and Ocala, and we can safely say the winter season is well underway in the southern states.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z at Ocala Winter I Horse Trials. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Over 500 competitors  gathered at the Florida Horse Park for Equiventures’ Ocala Winter I presented by Ocala Ranches, which gave way to four competitive Intermediate divisions. The first open division was won by Katie Ruppel aboard her up-and-coming star Foreign Affair (34.5), and the second open division went to Liz Halliday-Sharp and her own Deniro Z (24.3).

Clayton Fredericks made the jump from fifth to first by the end of the weekend in the Intermediate Horse division with Kingfisher Park’s FE Stiff Upper Lip (32.4). They added only .8 cross country time penalties to their dressage score. Following in second is Clark Montgomery and his promising new ride Caribbean Soul, an 11-year-old Thoroughbred owned by Maren Foster. Finishing on a score of 32.5 they were the only Intermediate pair to come inside the time on cross country this weekend in Ocala.

The fourth and final Intermediate win belongs to Anna Loschiavo and Prince Renan, a 15-year-old Thoroughbred owned by Rodney Oakes and Gina Giudici-Oakes, who led start to finish in the rider division.

Selena O’Hanlon showed that her Fair Hill winner Foxwood High is feeling fine this season, winning the Advanced combined test with a dressage score of 25 and one rail down.

Ocala Winter I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Results]

Pine Top Intermediate

Speaking of three-star superstars, Cooley Cross Border also earned himself a blue ribbon Georgia with Kim Severson across in the Advanced/Intermediate division. They finished on a score of 24.9.

Intermediate A was had by Allison Springer and The Lord Willing Syndicate’s Lord Willing who led from wire-to-wire on 32.4. Following in second is Waylon Roberts & Lancaster (35.7), and Tim Bourke in third with Quality Time (38.8).

Doug Payne was the winner of the second Intermediate division aboard Lisa Wall’s Getaway on a final result of 40.8. Keeping the sibling rivalry alive, Holly Payne Caravella finished second with CharmKing (41.5).

Kerry Torrey and her own Zumba lead the Intermediate rider division from start to finish. Tipping one rail and accruing a handful of cross country time penalties for a final result of 37.2. Maddie Lichten and Yarrow took second place (43), and Marley Stone-Bourke finished third with LVS Dassett Charisma (49.1).

Pine Top Intermediate H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Results]

Sunday Video from Total Saddle Fit: Eventing Sunny Florida

By on Feb 11, 2018 4:30 pm -

It was a busy weekend at the Florida Horse Park as competitors geared up for the Ocala Winter I Horse Trials presented by Ocala Ranches. You’ve got a front row seat to watch some of the blue ribbon rides thanks to David Frechette! You can find even more videos from all phases of competition on his YouTube Page, The Horsepesterer (make sure to subscribe while you’re there!).

Ocala Winter I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Results]

Intermediate Horse: Clayton Fredericks & FE Stiff Upper Lip

Intermediate Rider: Anna Loschiavo & Prince Renan

Open Intermediate B: Liz Halliday-Sharp & Dinero Z

Open Preliminary A (Weekend): Leslie Law & QC First Class

Open Preliminary A (Friday One-Day): David O’Connor & Cooley Dream

Specifically for eventers, the StretchTec Shoulder Relief Girth now comes in 2 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.  Them all here: totalsaddlefit.com

What’s In Your Arena? Presented by Attwood: Up Your Circle Game

By on Feb 11, 2018 2:30 pm -

What’s in Your Arena? is an EN series sponsored by Attwood Equestrian Surfaces in which riders share their favorite jumping exercises. It’s easy to get stuck in a training rut, and we hope this will inspire you with fresh ideas that you can take home and incorporate into your own programs.

Photo by Lainey Ashker.

Have you gotten dizzy practicing Werner Geven’s Circle of Hell that we shared a few weeks ago? You’re in luck because we’ve got an even bigger challenge for you today: Meet the Circle of Hell’s big, bad brother.

Lainey Ashker shared this gem as part of her #GOTD series. Like Werner, she describes the task as “deceptively simple,” but if you tried the Circle of Hell in your arena, then you know that it’s anything but!

Essentially, you start on the circle with four rhythmical strides in each of the ‘slices,’ then you take it out to surrounding oxers, which are set on an outside line with two of the verticals set on the circle.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bet9GK_hlCu/?taken-by=laineyea

“This deceivingly simple jumping exercise hones outside rein effectiveness and the rhythm of the canter! I also like how supple the horses become at the end of the workout!” Lainey said. 

She also filmed an entire lesson helping a few students of all levels work through this tricky exercise, which you can rewatch here:

Go eventing.

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Feb 11, 2018 12:01 am -

Have you gotten really into the winter Olympics? I have, and it’s getting me so excited for the World Equestrian Games this year! Sure I didn’t know anything about figure skating earlier today, but now I’m very confident about the technical movements in figure skating. Happy Winter Olympics!

National Holiday: National Don’t Cry Over Spilt Milk Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Pine Top Intermediate H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Results]

Ocala Winter I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Results]

Sunday Links: 

Area III Young Riders Seeks NAJC/CICOY Coach

Grid Pro Quo with Robert Costello

Vegan riding boots step out in the horse world

New Bolton Center Lifts EHV Quarantine

Hang On to Your Hat: An Insider’s Guide to Eventing in 2018

22 showjumping tips from the top to unlock your success

Nature of warm-up affects showjumping performance, researchers find

Sunday Video:


Rider Falls Will Result in Elimination Under New British Eventing Rule

By on Feb 10, 2018 1:00 pm -

Photo by Kate Samuels.

British Eventing has implemented a new rule eliminating any rider who suffers a fall during competition. 

This change comes after continued following of concussion research and recommendations from healthcare professionals, BE Medical Officers, and organizers and officials.  It will be enforced for the 2018 season, which begins March 3, 2018.

“Post fall assessment of riders may require a thorough physical, mental competence and neurological assessment,” Judith Johnson, BE Chief Medical Officer, said in a statement.

“This is a time consuming process may need to be repeated after a period of time in order to make a clinical decision whether that rider is fit to compete again that day. We have a duty of care to our members which, in the light of recent guidelines on concussion management, has led to this rule change.”

This update replaces the current rules allowing riders to continue on after a fall in any phase. In dressage, a rider would not be eliminated and only, “penalised by the effect of the fall on the execution of the movement concerned and in the collective mark.”

As part of an earlier 2018 rule change, after a fall in show jumping, the clock would be stopped, allowing the rider to remount and incur a six second time penalty. On cross country, riders would be allowed to remount only once they were evaluated by onsite medics.

“Whilst every effort has been made to enable a rider to continue after a fall in a safe manner, BE and event organisers have worked incredibly hard to provide standards of safety and medical provision for all BE events that are as high as possible and this rule change is essential to ensure that rider safety is maintained,” said BE National Safety Officer Jonathan Clissold.

British Eventing rules now fall in line with FEI and USEF rules regarding the rider falls in the show jumping and cross country tests for Training level and above.

Here are the key points as outlined by BE:

  • Riders who fall during their dressage test or anywhere on course in the show jumping or cross country phases will be eliminated and unable to continue.
  • Riders who fall in the warm up of any phase or before passing through the start of the show jumping or cross country must be checked by a doctor before continuing.
  • Multiple horse riders who fall off must undergo a fit to ride assessment carried out by the event doctor before being allowed to ride subsequent horses.
  • A competitor who falls at any stage of the competition must be checked by the event doctor before continuing or leaving site. It is the responsibility of the competitor to ensure compliance with these rules.

[Important change to rider falls and medical checks]

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: Cross Country Schooling for Young Horses

By on Feb 6, 2018 4:00 pm -

Take a trip to Ocala this afternoon with Major League Eventing as they share Joe Meyer’s philosophies on introducing young horses to cross country in episode four of their “Major League Training” series.

Follow along with Joe as he teaches two students on green horses, conquering introductory cross country fences including ditches and water. This episode is a must for anyone bringing up a young horse in the sport (I’m looking at you, one of the 794 Thoroughbred Makeover trainers accepted for eventing!).

Be sure to subscribe to Major League Eventing on YouTube, so you can be the first to see their next videos and like them on Facebook as well!

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 Cavalor

By on Feb 6, 2018 12:01 am -

Photo by Shelby Allen.

When your barn pup decides to be poorly behaved while you’re playing horse holder, you get creative. A rein quickly becomes a leash with optional stopper attachment. Then of course you’re in charge of two creatures, so hang on tight.

National Holiday: National Frozen Yogurt Day

Events Opening This Week: Poplar Place Farm March H.T. (GA, A-3) Carolina International CIC and H.T. (NC, A-2) Stable View Spring H.T. (SC, A-3) Southern Arizona H.T. (AZ, A-10)

Events Closing This Week: Three Lakes February II H.T. at Caudle Ranch (FL, A-3) Pine Top Advanced, CIC2*, CIC1* & H.T. (GA, A-3)

Tuesday News:

Thanks generous financial backing from the USEA, US Equestrian will continue their commitment to deformable fence technology in 2018. Organizers can apply for a grant to receive frangible pins at little to no cost, aiding their compliance with EV140.9 b with requires all oxers at Modified level or above to be pinned with a frangible device. [USEF to Continue Eventing Frangible Technology Grant Program in 2018 with Continued Support from the USEA]

The best way to battle ulcers is to prevent them. While an Omeprazole treatment like Gastroguard is arguably the most effective, even the addition of alfalfa can help by lowering the acidity in the stomach. [Ulcer prevention the key to keeping your competitive horse happy]

Four horses have tested positive for EHV-1 in Ohio this week. Two of the horses raced recently at the Meadows Racetrack and Casino, in Washington, Pennsylvania, and the other two are at the University of Findlay. Horse owners in the area should stay alert to their horses condition, and are advised to check their temperature daily. [Four Ohio Horses Test Positive for EHV-1]

If you’re anything like me, you’ve blindly wandered around a jumper show excited about the schooling opportunity but not sure of much else. Here’s your guide to jumper classes. [What Are All These Show Jumping Classes? Jumper Tables Explained]

Hot on Horse Nation: #TBT: Colts vs. Broncos: Horse Nation Wins

Tuesday Video: The highest score ever earned at Global:

4 Reasons Why You Should Attend the 2018 USEA Educational Symposium

By on Feb 5, 2018 9:00 am -

Robin Walker discusses the introduction of the canter and free jump at the FEH Championships. At this year’s symposium, attendees will learn how to properly prepare young horses for free jumping. Photo by USEA/Caroline Culbertson, used with permission.

The USEA’s Young Event Horse, Future Event Horse and Instructors’ Certification Programs are teaming up again this year for the mega USEA Educational Symposium, Feb. 19-22, 2018, in Ocala, Florida. Whether you have close ties to these programs or you are just looking for an awesome opportunity to learn, this symposium definitely has something for you!

Learn from World-Class Instructors 

For an affordable fee, you can learn from a few of our sport’s top teachers including Leslie Law, Kai-Steffen Meier and Chris Ryan. You’ll experience both engaging classroom sessions at the beautiful Ocala Jockey Club followed by riding demonstrations at Longwood Farm. Watching and learning the progression of both instructors and young horses is an extremely beneficial way to strengthen your own riding whether through new exercises or new ways to think about training. Instructors include:

ICP: Kai-Steffen Meier and Leslie Law
YEH: Kai-Steffen Meier and Leslie Law, with Marilyn Payne teaching the new YEH scoring system
FEH: Chris Ryan, Shauna Spurlock, Susan Graham White

View the complete symposium schedule here.

Kai-Steffen Meier and TSF Karascada M at Badminton 2014. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Explore the New Changes to the Young Event Horse Program

The USEA Young Event Horse Program rolled out some major changes last month including an entirely new scoring system. The conformation section has been removed from qualifying events, increasing the emphasis on the jumping/galloping portion. Class structure for the YEH program can be found here.

Anyone with ties to YEH, including judges and participants, have been encouraged to attend to make sure they are prepared to comply with the new additions.

Strengthen Your Understanding in All Phases of Horse Development

Whether you want to find your next top horse or make sure the basics are truly there with your veteran partner, the experts at the USEA Symposium have a wealth of knowledge to share. The Future Event Horse portion will cover appropriate conformation, bloodlines and behavior that are ideal for eventing. The Young Event Horse Program and the Instructors’ Certification Program will cover training and teaching techniques that you can carry with you in your own riding.

Florida Weather 

Escape the cold weather for a educational holiday! It’s Ocala in February … enough said.

The ICP portion of the symposium runs Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 19-20, YEH will be Wednesday, Feb. 21 and FEH will be Thursday, Feb. 22.To attend, you must register for the FEH/YEH and the ICP portions separately. Click here for Young Horse registration. Click here for ICP registration.

USEA Symposium: Website, FEH/YEH Registration, ICP Registration, Schedule

[Save the Date For the 2018 USEA Educational Symposium in Ocala]

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Feb 4, 2018 12:01 am -

Photo by Stephanie Rhodes Bosch Jenkins.

They are never to young to learn about helmet safety! Stephanie Rhodes Bosch’s daughter, Izzy, demonstrates how important it is to mind your melon, even if you’re riding a unicorn! Too cute.

National Holiday: National Homemade Soup Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Three Lakes H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Results]

Sporting Days H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Results]

Galway Downs Winter H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Results]

Sunday Links:

Ever wondered how a hunt kennels works? Go behind-the-scenes with the Belvoir Hunt

Grid Pro Quo with Sally Cousins

Ray Dance Beat The Odds With Charlotte Jorst

Concussion issues can linger for years, New Zealand study finds

Showjumper banned for five years after ‘damaging sport’s reputation’

Association implores horse owners: Don’t break your vet

Behind The Photo: Who Needs Wings When You’ve Got Springs For Feet?

Saturday Video: Dakota The Super Pony is Back!

By on Feb 3, 2018 4:00 pm -

You may remember the a certain darling pony from her impromptu catch ride for Mark Todd last fall. To jog your memory…

The stunning 12hh Dartmoor cross is named Dakota, and she is loved by a young girl named Millie who is a quite talented rider herself!

Dakota made the rounds on social media last fall, becoming an instant sensation, and now she’s back with a new rider in tow – none other that Pippa Funnell. Pippa took a spin on the handy pony following a demo clinic in Aberdeen, UK.

“A lot of fun was had including riding Millie Lawson’s little Dakota. What a lovely lovely pony. A true school mistress putting up with amateurs such as Sir Mark Todd and myself. She was 11.2 but after my weight she is now a Shetland.
Thank you Millie,” Pippa shared on her Facebook page.

A pony clearly worth her weight in gold.

Go Dakota.

Michael Jung Sweeps Devoucoux Indoor Derby at Bordeaux

By on Feb 3, 2018 11:00 am -

Photo courtesy of the event at Bordeaux.

In traditional fashion, Michael Jung has pulled out yet another impressive victory in our sport, this time in the Devoucoux Indoor Derby in Bordeaux.

He and Maria Stein’s 8-year-old Hanoverian Corazon just edged out frenchman Maxime Livio, their win secured by only 39 hundredths of a second.

The course was well designed and a pleasure to ride. There were many options to do short-cuts, it was very interesting,” Michael said. “The crowd here is amazing. They are cheerful and fair play as they encourage even the foreign riders.”

“It is a very nice class,” he continued. “I appreciated the fact that the horses had the opportunity to explore the course beforehand as we had the chance to ride it in the morning. That way, when they entered the arena in the evening, the fences were already a little familiar. It is an impressive show for them.”

He took a few moments Friday night to celebrate his win, but then it’s back to business for Ze Terminator as he must, “concentrate on the coloured fences again,” with fisherChelsea entered in tonight’s CSI5*. Also in tow this weekend is fisherSolution, who finished 25th in last night’s 1.50m class.

Michael is keeping his show jumping sharp this weekend as he prepares for his show jumping team debut for Germany next month in the Abu Dhabi Nations Cup CSIO5* in the United Arab Emirates.

Maxime finished just shy of the win aboard Boleybawn Prince, a 14-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by a Mr. Prasert, Mrs. Kanchanaporn and Ms. Arinadtha Chavatanont. Maxime got the ride on this promising gelding by Colin Diamond last year, finishing 14th in the CCI2* at Le Pouget. Watch their trip around the indoor derby here:

 

For complete results for the indoor derby, click here.
Tonight all eyes will be on the Longines FEI World Cup™, where top riders will be looking to qualify for the final in Paris, April 10-15, 2018. You can watch live on FEI TV beginning at 2:30 EST. The FEI World Cup™ Driving Final will follow at 5:20 EST.
 International Jumping de Bordeaux: Website, Startlist & Results, FEI TV

Rest In Peace, Hollywood

By on Jan 30, 2018 7:30 pm -

Kelly and Reggie at the Kentucky Three-Day Event. Photo by Lisa Tossey.

We are saddened to share the news that Kelly Sult-Ransom’s OTTB powerhouse Hollywood passed away today at the age of 25.

By Mighty Adversary and out of Reckless Knight, Reggie raced under the name Mightyreckless. Despite the blood of racing legends Native Dancer, Nasrullah and War Admiral running through his veins, he didn’t excel on the track. After 12 starts and less than $700 earned, he entered the next phase of his life where he met Kelly.

It was love at first sight for 13-year-old Kelly, and despite Reggie’s nasty reputation, she and her father, Mark Sult, started training the young ex-racehorse. It was not smooth sailing initially — at their first event they were eliminated at the water — but Kelly didn’t give up.

Kelly and Reggie. Photo by Lisa Tossey.

She kept believing in her cheeky OTTB, and her persistence paid off. Soon they were tearing around at the Advanced level and earning a 6th place finish in the two-star at at NAJYRC in 2007. The following year they made their four-star debut, finishing 14th as the highest placed young rider at the Kentucky Three-Day Event.

After four more successful completions at the CCI4* level, Kelly retired Reggie sound and happy, taking pride in the OTTB that she and her father trained themselves all the way.

“He was my heart horse who started everything for me! Brought so many people together and brought smiles to everyone around him,” Kelly said in a Facebook post. “He was a quirky dude that I will never forget and will thank him daily for everything he has done for me!”

“He gave me wings to fly around Rolex four-star four times and gave me so many opportunities to be at the top of the sport while giving me his heart through everything! I LOVE YOU REGGIE!”

Go Reggie.

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: A Little Trot Through the Water

By on Jan 30, 2018 5:00 pm -

Hang on tight! This Tuesday video may give you some sympathy whiplash. I’ve seen some eager beavers on their introduction to water, but none so eager as this…

Hats off to Margot Curtis for sitting this wild ride, and, like any respectable rider, for asking if her friend caught it on video. She’s definitely put herself in the running for the 2018 EN Stickability Award!

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 Cavalor

By on Jan 30, 2018 12:01 am -

Lily Stokes and Russian River won the starter division this weekend at Full Gallop. Photo by Shelby Allen.

It was a soggy Sunday in Aiken this weekend for Full Gallop Farm’s January HT. Despite the weather, it was great to be back and see the hard work that Lara Anderson and her team have implemented! It is a great venue, so if you’re in the area stop by and ride or volunteer. They are still accepting entries and volunteers for their February I HT next week. Learn more on their website.

National Holiday: National Croissant Day

Events Opening This Week: Ocala Winter II Presented by Ocala Ranches (FL, A-3) Copper Meadows Winter H.T. (CA, A-6) Pine Top Spring H.T. (GA, A-3) Live Oak International (FL, A-3) MeadowCreek Park – The Spring Social Event (TX, A-5)

Events Closing This Week: Rocking Horse Winter II H.T. (FL, A-3) Fresno County Horse Park CIC & H.T. (CA, A-6) Paradise Farm H.T. (SC, A-3)

Tuesday News:

The start of the year is a great time to set goals. But you don’t want this year to be another resolution fail. Matt Brown says setting smaller goals throughout the year and having your coach/trainer/friends keep you accountable will help you stay on track. [Goal Setting For a Successful Season with Matt Brown]

Rider fitness is a key component of success in the saddle. But are you covering all your basics? British Eventing breaks it down into four key components to focus: cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance strength, core strength and stability and suppleness. [Four key areas of rider fitness]

The colored poles are good for more than just jumping. Pole work can help improve strength, range of motion and balance.  Horse & Hound shares a few videos to keep the polework interesting. [Watch how to strengthen your horse at home using polework]

Hot on Horse Nation: On Shelley Browning & the Court of Public Opinion: How Do We Move Forward?

Tuesday Video:

 

One of the most classic equestrian fails

Posted by Danielle Moraski on Thursday, January 25, 2018

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Jan 28, 2018 12:01 am -

Thinking of all the things she could roll in… Photo by Shelby Allen.

Let’s all say a silent prayer for grey competition horse owners. As a two-time victim of this harmful attribute, I so empathize with you. You bathe and bathe and bathe and they never quite stop looking yellow? After the umpteenth spa session, you tuck them (sleazy and all) into a spotless stall, only to arrive in the morning to see them somehow covered in poop. Grey horse owners, we salute you!

National Holiday: National Blueberry Pancake Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Rocking Horse Winter I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Results]

Full Gallop H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Results]

Sunday Links: 

Grid Pro Quo with Lainey Ashker

The Affordable Riding Act

British showjumpers stripped of titles after positive dope tests

Non-GMO horse feed: It’s not necessarily safe

Signs of ivermectin resistance seen in small strongyles on large British stud

What do cross-country colours actually mean?

Eventing Ireland increase entry fees for 2018

Sunday Video: This came up on my timeline today and I just have so many questions.

Long Live the Three-Day! Waredaca and HOTC Add P3D Divisions

By on Jan 27, 2018 11:30 am -

Novice Three-Day competitors Emma Keahon and Wil’Ya Love Me on course at the 2015 Waredaca Classic Event. Photo by Kate Samuels.

The USEA Classic Series is growing! Both Waredaca and Heart of the Carolinas recently announced that they have both added Preliminary Three-Day divisions to their seasonal events. Joining the ranks of the Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day, these are the only three events to host this challenging competition at the Preliminary level. 

The Heart of the Carolinas Three-Day Event, hosted at Southern 8ths Farm in Chesterfield, South Carolina, is the only venue in the country to offer Beginner Novice through Preliminary long format divisions through the USEA Classic Series. USEA President Carol Kozlowski, Holly Hepp Hudspeth and Kim Keeton, DVM, have been named as 2018 clinicians.  

The Waredaca Classic Three-Day Event & H.T., October 25-28, 2018 in Layonsville, Maryland, offers Novice – Preliminary long format divisions alongside their horse trials.

While we could carry on all day about the benefits of a three-day, I think Waredaca said it best in a Facebook status: 

“It’ll leave you with goosebumps on your arms, sweat running down your body and elation in your heart. It will push you to your limits, at times scare the bejeezus out of you, but at the end of the three days, it’ll leave you and your horse bonded in a way you haven’t felt before.”

There’s a lot of talk about the value of the long format event…about how “back in the day,” that–that was real eventing; when cross country/endurance day was at the heart of the sport; when riders had to practice a different kind of horsemanship. Ask anyone who’s contested the Classic and they’ll tell you there’s truth to these claims. No event, championship or otherwise, can come close to the experience of completing a long format event.”

With the adoption of the short format, many missed their chance at experiencing the blood, sweat and tears of training for a three-day, but, thankfully, the USEA stands as the long format’s biggest advocate, and remains the only national association to continue offering the traditional format.

Go eventing.

Eventing Flourishes in Southern Arizona with New Horse Trial in 2018

By on Jan 27, 2018 9:00 am -

Three cheers for eventing in Southern Arizona! Photo via Southern Arizona Eventing Association’s Facebook page.

We are very pleased to wish a warm EN welcome to Area X’s newest event, Southern Arizona H.T.! Held at the Pima County Fairgrounds in Tuscon, Arizona, the inaugural competition will take place March 24-25, 2018.

Though this event is brand spanking new, it’s creation is years in the making. It all starts with George and Nina Masek who owned Grass Ridge Farm in Sonoita, Arizona.

They faithfully served their eventing community for decades, and their Grass Ridge Farm H.T. was a staple on the Area X calendar. Following their deaths, the last of their farm’s namesake competitions was sadly held in 2014. The Grass Ridge Equestrian Foundation (GREF) then set out to ensure the sport’s future in southern Arizona.

Grass Ridge Farm H.T. Photo via Southern Arizona Eventing Association’s Facebook Page.

“‘GREF’ was tasked with the unfortunate reality of wrapping up operations, but wanted to preserve the Masek’s legacy and eventing in Southern Arizona in same way,”  explained Marian LaLonde, President of the Southern Arizona Eventing Association. It was the end of an era, but the beginning of a new one and from there, the Southern Arizona Eventing Association (“SAzEA”) was born. The GREF Board worked to preserve the jumps and equipment and passed the torch to SAzEA and a new Board of Directors who accepted the mission to find a new home to continue eventing in Southern Arizona.”

The SAzEA explored their options for an eventing hub, eventually finding a home at the Pima County Fairgrounds in Tuscon, Arizona, where 60 acres have been allotted by the Southwestern Fair Commission for a cross country course.

Check out a tour of the Southern Arizona H.T. venue:

In addition to the spacious cross country track, which is being designed by Adri Lea Doyal, the fairgrounds also boasts permanent stabling, hundreds of RV hookups, accessibility to the beautiful city of Tucson and close proximity to Interstate 10.

“This is a dream come true and SAzEA is the story of how a collaborative effort consisting of an amazing group of board members, coordinators, builders, trainers, donors, supporters, family members and invaluable volunteers can make a positive difference in our sport!” Marian continued.

One of the many beautiful jumps that will be featured at the March Horse Trial! Photo via Southern Arizona Eventing Association’s Facebook page.

“We are so pleased to be able to provide another venue for the training and education of our Pony Clubs, Young Riders, and Adult Riders who are all part of keeping the sport of eventing alive. We look forward to seeing everyone in March for our first annual Southern Arizona Horse Trials and future Arena Eventing or clinic events in 2018.”

“We are dedicated to continuing to improve and expand the course and to offer new and exciting opportunities for our sport in the years to come. We are so grateful for the fantastic amount of enthusiasm and support we have received and we are especially appreciative of all of the encouragement and generosity from our donors, exhibitors and trainers in Area X. This project was a huge undertaking and those of us on the SAzEA Board didn’t fully appreciate what we were getting ourselves into, but we have learned that it pays off to dream big. At long last, it is finally time for all of us to KICK ON AND RIDE! See you all soon!”

Southern Arizona H.T.: Website, Omnibus

 

 

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: You’ve Never Seen Galway Downs Like This

By on Jan 23, 2018 3:30 pm -

Each winter, the Galway Downs Equestrian Center in Temecula, California hosts a clinic to raise funds for facility improvements, specifically to the cross country course, in the current year. Over two dozen trainers came forward to help the 20th annual fundraiser which lead to a hugely successful and busy day!

Chris Gentile perfectly captured the hustle and bustle with his drone footage, which gives a perspective of Galway that even the most regular competitors haven’t seen.

Thanks to all those who supported this fantastic Area VI competition!

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 Cavalor

By on Jan 23, 2018 12:01 am -

Photo by Cecilia Sacksen/Saddle Creek Photography LLC.

Belated congratulations are in order for Allie Sacksen who became a mother earlier this month. Her precious daughter Anastasia Louise looks right at home with her mom’s four-star ride Sparrow’s Nio. Congratulations to this crew!

National Holiday: National Handwriting Day

Events Opening this Week: Southern Pines H.T. (NC, A-2) Red Hills International H.T. (FL, A-3) Full Gallop Farm March H.T. (SC, A-3)

Events Closing This Week:  Ocala Winter I Presented by Ocala Ranches. (FL, A-3)  Full Gallop Farm February I H.T. (SC, A-3)  Pine Top Intermediate H.T. (GA, A-3)

Tuesday News:

The Green Mountain Horse Association (GMHA) is looking for a summer intern! This opportunity will have an intern working alongside the GMHA staff and learn the ins and outs of running dozens of horse shows in a variety of disciplines. Sounds like a great way to dive into the horse show world. [GMHA Summer Internship]

Ready to show your school spirit? Today the USEA released a lineup of horse trials hosting Intercollegiate Team Challenges in 2018. Ocala Winter I will be the first up, followed by 13 other opportunities for teams to go head to head. [Get Ready to Show Your School Spirit at the 2018 Intercollegiate Team Challenges]

Charlotte Dujardin believes in the importance of hacking! All of her horses have four schooling days a week, two hacking days and one day off. She shared more of these pearls of wisdom at her recent masterclass in Kentucky last week. Don’t worry – she also updated us on Valegro who is enjoying being ridden four days per week. Charlotte’s fiance Dean Golding even took him for a spin on Christmas Eve. [Ride Forward To Create Enthusiasm Says Dujardin On Day 2 Of Masterclass]

Tuesday Video: 

‘Bringing Joy, Embracing Change’: US Equestrian Annual Meeting Report

By on Jan 22, 2018 9:00 am -

This weekend US Equestrian wrapped up its 2018 Annual Meeting in Lexington, Kentucky. Under the theme, “Bringing Joy, Embracing Change,” this organization brought nearly 30 breed and discipline groups together under one commonality: a love for horses. The atmosphere was optimistic throughout the weekend as accomplishments were celebrated and new goals were set for the coming year.

US Equestrian Strategic Plan Update

One year ago, USEF unveiled its new identity as US Equestrian along with a radical new plan to, “bring the joy of horse sports to as many people as possible,” and according to them — it’s working.

US Equestrian has seen a 28% increase in membership to bring the total member count to 105,000, with 27,000 of those holding a new fan membership.

Looking forward to 2018, US Equestrian has pledged to continue to improve member benefits with more perks and discounts as well as better member communication.

“You gave us a $750,000 investment last year to get started,” said US Equestrian President Murray Kessler. “That means by the end of 2018 we will have delivered a 500% return, but we’ll have that benefit every year going forward because we’ll be at a new level. That’s huge.”

[Strategic Plan Update: It’s Working!]

Moderated Forums

The Moderated Forums explored the many topics including the SafeSport Initiative and a proposed coach register.

The SafeSport Initiative is a tool for equestrians to educate themselves on recognize and reduce abuse in our sport. US Equestrian also noted that they will refer any claims of sexual misconduct to the U.S. Center for SafeSport, a nonprofit organization which serves the 47 U.S. Olympic National Governing Bodies. US Equestrian retains jurisdiction over other non-sexual misconduct reports.

Many disciplines have their own instructor certification programs, but there has been a call to create a central coaching register within US Equestrian that carries across disciplines. To be included, coaches would need to undergo concussion and basic first-aid training, SafeSport training and background checks. US Equestrian’s Director of Sport Programs, Will Connell, who is leading the charge for this cause, stressed that this registry would not replace existing discipline registry, like the USEA’s Instructors’ Certification Program (ICP), but instead would link multiple sports together.

[Annual Meeting 2018’s Moderated Forums: The SafeSport Initiative]

[Annual Meeting 2018’s Moderated Forums: A Proposed Coach Register]

Year End Awards

Though there were no eventers picking up year-end awards this year, we are proud to celebrate the achievements of many talented equestrians, including McLain Ward who earned the Robert P. Strub Trophy as the 2017 USEF Equestrian of the Year during the Pegasus Awards.

McLain enjoyed huge successes last year with wins in the $380,000 Suncast Grand Prix CSI5* at WEF and the FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final in Omaha, Nebraska with Double H Farm and François Mathy’s HH Azur, who additionally was titled International Horse of the Year. The 11-year-old Belgian Warmblood impressively did not pick up a single fault in team competition last year.

Longtime eventing supporter Jacqueline Mars and eventing journalist Nancy Jaffer were also awarded Pegasus Medals of Honor.

  • International Horse of the Year: HH Azur, 12-year-old Belgian Warmblood owned by Double H Farm and François Mathy.
  • National Horse of the Year: Cuba, 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood owned by John and Stephanie Ingram
  • International Horse of Honor: Verdades, 15-year-old Dutch Warmblood owned by Laura Graves and Curt Maes
  • National Horse of Honor: Co Fan S, a 15-year-old Friesian gelding owned by Little River Friesians
  • National Horse of Honor: Winding Oaks Tom Foolery, a 14-year-old Welsh cross gelding owned by Katie Whaley

To see a complete list of award winners, click here.

To watch more videos from the 2017 Annual Meeting, click here.

[McLain Ward Wins 2017 USEF Equestrian of the Year Title at Pegasus Awards]

[HH Azur and Cuba Win 2017 Horse of the Year Titles]

Inter-Discipline Discussion

US Equestrian opened an Affiliate Roundtable discussion to collaborate ideas and open communication between all 29 of USEF’s breed and discipline affiliates. membership growth was a hot topic, and discussion was lively as affiliates brainstormed ways to grow membership across disciplines. Their are plans in place to explore more marketing opportunities especially with the FEI World Equestrian Games approaching.

[Breeds, Disciplines Share Ideas at Affiliate Roundtable]

Collegiate/Young Riders

US Equestrian named Rebecca Farm as the host for the Eventing Adequan® FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships, presented by Gotham North in both 2018 and 2019, pending FEI approval. The Championships will coincide with The Event at Rebecca Farm July 18-22, 2018.

Old Salem Farm will host the 2018 Dressage Adequan® FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North, as well as the 2018 and 2019 Jumping Adequan® FEI North American Junior Children and Young Rider Championships.

Collegiate programs also got their moment for discussion on Friday. United States Eventing Association (USEA) as well other collegiate and scholastic organizations met Friday to discuss ways to retain riders at ages 18-24 where membership usually dips for all disciplines.

To additionally solve the issue of a dwindling number of licensed officials, USEA CEO Rob Burk also suggested proposing a curriculum  for college equine studies programs where students could work toward their judging/officiating/designing requirements while in school.

[US Equestrian Announces 2018 and 2019 Host Sites for Adequan® FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North]

Shoulder Relief Sunday Video from Total Saddle Fit: Eventing Pura Vida

By on Jan 21, 2018 4:00 pm -

Lainey Ashker traveled to San Jose, Costa Rica this week to teach her first international clinic at the La Finca Equestrian Center. During her trip, she took a spin around the Center’s Novice Derby aboard Leonor Muñoz Ortiz’s Simpatica. The 19-year-old Rheinlander mare was only recently introduced to eventing after a competitive career in show jumping, and from the looks of it she’s definitely a fan! Watch her round: 

Go Costa Rica eventing!

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Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Jan 21, 2018 12:01 am -

The cross country course at Grand Oaks. Photo by Jenni Autry.

It’s a beautiful weekend in Weirsdale, Florida for the first ever Grand Oaks Horse Trials. Our own Jenni Autry is enjoying the southern weather and competing this weekend. She’ll get the chance to challenge Clayton Frederick’s cross country course this morning – Good luck to Jenni and everyone at Grand Oaks!

National Holiday: National Granola Bar Day, National Hugging Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Grand Oaks H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Results]

Sunday Links:

Baltimore County Horse Tests Positive for Equine Herpes Virus

COTH Horse Show Dad: A Very Young Rider (Does Her Own Chores)

Ward And Dotoli Take Center Stage At USEF Pegasus Awards

‘I always do it before Badminton’: eventer who broke back faces race to be fit

Thoroughbreds evaluated before and after racing in US heart study

Equine Melanoma Vaccines

Stallion Collection Schedules Affect Mare Pregnancy Rates

Hot on Horse Nation: ‘5 Things I Learned Horseback Riding’

Sunday Video:

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: David O’Connor Back in the Saddle

By on Jan 16, 2018 5:00 pm -

If you’ve been paying attention to the east coast eventing scene through the fall, then you heard a familiar name called over the show speakers. David O’Connor has officially ended his competition hiatus, piloting a few horses at local events including Michelle Donlick’s Tremolo with whom he finished 6th in the Open Preliminary at Rocking Horse last November.

In Tremolo’s sale ad, Lauren Kieffer jokingly notes that he’s “currently competing with an old man,” but we’d say they look pretty spectacular. Check out their rides, courtesy of the generous David Frechette aka The Horsepesterer!

Go David O’Connor. 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.