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Great Meadow CICO3* Live Cross Country Updates

By on Jul 9, 2017 9:00 am -

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Good Morning, EN! It’s cross country day at Great Meadow! This is the event’s second year hosting an FEI Eventing Nations Cup, and it’s a treat to see Team USA competing stateside.

Canadian Jessica Phoenix and Don Good’s Pavarotti currently lead the pack individually after their impressive performance over the colored poles yesterday, but The United States held onto the top spot in the Nations Cup Standings. Click here to catch up on all of EN’s Coverage of #GMI2017.

Mike Etherington-Smith has flipped the course around this year, and you can check it out via drone by clicking here, or by viewing fence-by-fence photos here. We will follow along with live updates all morning here, but you can watch for yourself either through USEF Network or FEI TV.

#GMI2017: Website, Schedule, Entries, Ride Times, Live Scoring, USEF Network, FEI TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

Jennie Brannigan and Nina Gardner’s Cambalda are repeat winners at Great Meadow International CICO3* presented by Adequan®! They finish on a score of 49.8. Team USA wins the FEI Nations Cup here for the second year in a row!

Screen shot via CourseWalkApp.com

Screen shot via CourseWalkApp.com

9:00 a.m. EST: First pair will leave the start box at 9:30 a.m.

9:33 a.m. EST: Trailblazers Justine Dutton and Jak My Style clear through the Adequan Drop Complex. They’re looking great so far.

9:36 a.m. EST: Justine and Jak My Style have had a fall in the final water. Fence judges and medics were seen moving to assist her.

9:38 a.m. EST: Overnight leaders Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti have been held at fence 12.

9:43 a.m. EST: The course is still being held. We will update you the moment we have more information about Justine!

9:46 a.m. EST: Justine is conscious and responsive following a rotational fall at fence 18A The Adequan Beaver Pond. She is being transported to the hospital now for a complete check over.

9:51 a.m. EST: We’ve gotten a five minute countdown until they restart the course.

9:54 a.m. EST: Karen O’Connor reported from the live stream that Justine is in her normal “fighting form” and is “moving everything.”

9:56 a.m. EST: Jessica and Pavarotti have been restarted and are clear through the Adequan drop complex.

9:57 a.m. EST: Jessica nearly comes unseated after taking the flag on the B element of Jet Linx Launch, but she sticks it! Go girl!

Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti. Photo via @GoEventing on Instagram.

10:03 a.m. EST: Boyd Martin and Steady Eddie have a picture perfect ride through the Salamander Splash as the first rider for Team USA!

10:05 a.m. EST: Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti picked up 12.4 time faults which will drop them from the lead.

10:08 a.m. EST: Woods Baughman and Montesquieu have unfortunately been eliminated after three stops at the corner in the main arena. Montesquieu seemed to be saying “No!” to getting near the corner.

10:10 a.m. EST: Jenny Caras has withdrawn Fernhill Fortitude.

10:12 a.m. EST: Boyd and Steady Eddie had a masterful round coming in one second under the optimum time of 6:31.

10:16 a.m. EST: 4.4 time penalties added to an otherwise clear and confident round for Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration.

10:19 a.m. EST: A stop for Matthew Heath and One of a Kind of Great Britain look to have picked up a stop at the final element of the first water.

10:20 a.m. EST: Oh no! Two more stops for Matthew and One of a Kind. Great Britain will not have a team completion this weekend.

10:22 a.m. EST: Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High will a fantastic ride so far for Canada. Karen O’Connor says “You can see the look in her eye – she wants to make the time today!”

10:29 a.m. EST: Selena looked like she was on a hack today. She made the time and made it look easy! They came in on a time of 6:30.

10:36 a.m. EST: Hallie Coon and Celien not quite quick enough to make the time, but a lovely round!

10:38 a.m. EST: Emily Beshear and Silver Night Lady have a slip turning to the C element of the Adequan drop. She had not yet presented, so Emily had a tricky time of jumping that corner without crossing her tracks, but she got it done!

10:39 a.m. EST: Jessica Phoenix has picked up a stop in the main arena with Abbey GS.

10:40 a.m. EST: After another stop in the arena, Jessica calls it a day and retires.

10:45 a.m. EST: Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect are on course! This is Allie’s first three-star back since her injury this spring. It’s great to see her here!

10:49 a.m. EST: Sounder looks a little strong today. Allie has the tough job of swerving around to jump the corner without crossing her tracks.

10:52 a.m. EST: Mara DePuy is doing an expert job of navigating Congo Brazzaville C through this track. He’s clearly very keen, but still green at this level.

10:53 a.m. EST: Rachel McDonough and Irish Rhythm are now on course and clear through the first water.

10:55 a.m. EST: Rats! Congo hung a leg on the drop into the final water, throwing Mara off. She is understandably disappointed but ok!

10:59 a.m. EST: Holly Payne Caravella and Never Outfoxed have a stop at the corner in the arena. This is definitely proving to be the most influential fences today.

11:02 a.m. EST: Waylon Roberts and Kelecyn Cognac are on course for Team Canada!

11:05 a.m. EST: Will Coleman and Tight Lines have a discussion at the tricky arena complex, but they make it through!

11:09 a.m. EST: Waylon Roberts and Antony Connolly’s Kelecyn Cognac finish clear and within the time with the fastest round of the day so far at 6:21.

11:12 a.m. EST: Clayton Fredericks and FE Ophelia made the Adequan Drop Complex look easy! The horse is getting more confident with each fence.

11:14 a.m. EST: Sticky moment for Clayton at the Adequan Beaver Pond when FE Ophelia hung a leg, but he stuck it!

11:15 a.m. EST: The day has unraveled for Jessica Phoenix. She’s retired A Little Romance after two stops at the Beverly Brush question in the arena.

11:18 a.m. EST: Honor Me was definitely looking for the flags through the first water with Lisa Marie Ferguesson. Nicely done!

11:22 a.m. EST: Kurt Martin and Anna Bella out of the start box. We’re now running the top eight in reverse order of standing.

11:26 a.m. EST: Emily Llewellyn and Emirati Night Sky are off for Great Britain! At 8, this horses is one of the youngest in the field.

11:30 a.m. EST: Kurt picks up 12.8 time, but had a very confident round as Anna Bella returns to top form!

11:31 a.m. EST: Emily really has to put the pressure on into the last water, but they’re clear through.

11:33 a.m. EST: Riding for USA, Lynn Symansky and Donner are easily through the McEnearney Open Houses at 10AB.

11:34 a.m. EST: Emily Llewellyn picked up 8.8 time penalties with Emirati Night Sky giving them a provisional score of 58.1.

11:36 a.m. EST: Great Britain is out for team contention, but their final individuals are having stellar rides! Nicky Roncoroni and Watts Burn clear through the arena and looking good on the time.

11:38 a.m. EST: Another strong finish for the United States! Lynn and Donner finish three second over.

11:40 a.m. EST: Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda have a little misstep in the ring, but are quick to save it before the B element.

11:42 a.m. EST: Nicky and Watts Burn picked up 4.4 time penalties. They sit just behind Lynn and Donner on a score of 53.

11:45 a.m. EST: Jan Byyny and Inmidair look determined to finish on their dressage score. They’re zooming around course, halfway through now.

11:46 a.m. EST: 1.6 time penalties for Jennie and Ping. They put the pressure on as Phillip Dutton leaves the startbox.

11:48 a.m. EST: Phillip and I’m Sew Ready with an economical ride through the arena. If anyone can make the time across country, its Phillip!

11:49 a.m. EST: At the halfway point, Phillip is 6 seconds ahead of the minute markers.

11:51 a.m. EST: Jan and Inmidiar had a finishing time of 6:58 which gives them 10 time penalties. They’ve dropped to sixth as we wait for Phillip to finish.

11:53 a.m. EST: Phillip and Jackson are home clear! They had 10 seconds of breathing room. Did he manage it?

11:54 a.m. EST: 5.6 time penalties for Phillip and Jackson means Jennie and Ping have won Great Meadow for the second time on a score of 49.8!

11:55 a.m. EST: Team USA wins the Nations Cup with a team score of 151.5! Canada follows in second on 168.6 points.

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Jul 9, 2017 12:01 am -

Follow the Chinch’s epic adventures on our Instagram: @goeventing.

Chinch had a great day at Great Meadow International getting his apprentice hours in! His friendly demeanor did him well in warm up, but his Chinch-sized arms gave him a heck of a hard time actually checking bits! Who knows what he will get into tomorrow on cross country day…

National Holiday: National Sugar Cookie Day

Great Meadow CICO3* Links: Website, Schedule, Entries, Ride Times, Live Scoring, USEF Network, FEI TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

U.S. Weekend Action:

Huntington Farm H.T. [Website] *CANCELLED DUE TO FLOODING*

Old Chatham H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Maryland at Loch Moy I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

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

Roebke’s Run H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

41st Annual Whidbey Island H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Coconino Summer I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Sunday Links:

Allie Knowles on How She’s Battling Back from Injury, One Mini-Victory at a Time

Full Circle: Great Meadow Eventing

Protecting Against Wildfire

Rider invents ground-breaking device to help return from injury

How to Handle Wild Animal Encounters with Your Horse

The Knabstrupper Breed in Profile: Spot the Difference

11 Reasons Your Horse Thinks Your Crazy

Sunday Video: We’re all exciting to be following the action at #GMI2017, but there’s also plenty of national horse trial action this weekend too! Follow along at the Maryland Horse Trials with Lainey Ashker and Flagmount’s Spartan.


Fourth of July Tuesday News & Notes from Cavalor

By on Jul 4, 2017 12:01 am -

Photo by Sarah Rupert.

Happy Fourth of July, EN! Here’s Will Coleman’s ride Dondante, owned by the Four Star Eventing Group and Team Rebecca, giving his best founding fathers impersonation in honor of the holiday. We hope your Independence Day is red on the right, white on the left and patriotic insanity in the middle!

National Holiday: Independence Day & National Barbecue Day. Well paired!

Events Opening This Week: Waredaca Farm H.T. (MD, A-2) Genesee Valley Riding & Driving Club H.T. (NY, A-1) Full Gallop Farm August HT (SC, A-3) Huntington Farm H.T. (VT, A-1) Applewood Farm YEH/FEH & Mini Event (NJ, A-2)

Events Closing Today: SPC National Championship (KY, A-11) Silverwood Farm Summer H.T. (WI, A-4) Full Moon Farms H.T.(MD, A-2) Event at Rebecca Farm (MT, A-7) Fitch’s Corner H.T. (NY, A-1)

Tuesday News and Notes: 

Margie Davis has been recognized by the USEA as the July Volunteer of the Month. Besides giving her time whenever necessary, she has also served as the Volunteer Coordinator at Cooper Meadows for the last 14 years. If you see her helping out in Area VI, don’t forget to say thank you! [Margie Davis: USEA’s Volunteer of the Month Presented by Athletux]

Holidays can be stressful for horse owners, and Forth of July may be the most nerve-wracking of them all. The Horse shares a few tips for keeping horses calm and safe during the firework festivities. [Tips for Keeping Horses Safe During July 4th Festivities]

Austria hosted their first Eventing Nations Cup this weekend at Wiener Neustadt. Germany came out on top, but the Austrian team was thrilled with a podium finish in third place. Georgia Spence rode to the individual win for Great Britain. [Finale of Nations Cup Eventing at Wiener Neustadt]

Tuesday Video: Helmet Cam alert! Melanie Smith and Shakedown take us around the Preliminary course at Stableview:

Boyd Martin & Steady Eddie Substituted Onto U.S. Nations Cup Team for Great Meadow

By on Jul 3, 2017 9:19 pm -

Boyd Martin and Steady Eddie. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Doug Payne has withdrawn Debi Crowley and Doug and Jessica Payne’s Vandiver from the FEI Nations Cup CICO3* at Great Meadow International presented by Adequan today after suffering a broken collarbone while schooling a young horse.

US Equestrian has substituted Boyd Martin & Steady Eddie, who were previously announced as alternates, onto the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team in their place.

The team is now as follows:

Boyd Martin (Cochranville, Pa.) with Gretchen and George Wintersteen, Pierre Colin, and Denise Lahey’s Steady Eddie, a 2003 Australian Thoroughbred gelding

Jennie Brannigan (Reddick, Fla.) with Tim and Nina Gardner’s Cambalda, a 2002 Irish Sport Horse gelding

Buck Davidson (Unionville, Pa.) with Sherrie Martin and Carl Segal’s Copper Beach, a 2006 Irish Sport Horse gelding

Phillip Dutton (West Grove, Pa.) with Kristine and John Norton’s I’m Sew Ready, a 2004 Dutch Warmblood gelding

Lynn Symansky and The Donner Syndicate’s Donner remain team alternates.  The competition will be held this week, July 7-9 in The Plains, Virginia.

The EN team would like to wish Doug a speedy recovery!

[UPDATE: US Equestrian Names Substitution to the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team for Great Meadow International presented by Adequan CICO3*]

Horse Park of NJ & Chattahoochee Hills Kick Off Summer Show Series

By on Jul 2, 2017 1:15 pm -

It was a quiet weekend for eventers as we look ahead to the Nations Cup at Great Meadow next week, but meanwhile Chattahoochee Hills and The Horse Park of New Jersey both kicked off their first summer shows.

Buck Davidson and Huck Finn. Photo via Justine Dutton’s Instagram.

Horse Park of NJ 1

The Horse Park of New Jersey I held on Advanced and two Intermediate divisions. In the Advanced, Buck Davidson won the division on a catch-ride: Patricia Weiser and longtime student Justine Dutton’s Huck Finn. One pole down was the only penalty added to their dressage score of 35, giving them a final mark of 39.

Justine, who has piloted “Finn” through the Advanced level herself, posted on Instagram that she was “so proud of my coach and friend for giving Finn the ride of his life and showing me he does indeed still want to play at this level.” With this confidence booster under his belt, we’re looking forward to seeing continued success for Finn and his team.

Erin Sylvester took second place with Frank McEntee’s Paddy the Caddy. After posting a 35.6 in the sandbox, they knocked one rail and came in one second over the optimum time on cross country to finish on a score of 40.

Erika Nesler rounds out the top three with Doug and Cindy Howe’s Right Above It. They had two down in the show jumping, but joined Buck and Finn as the second pair to finish the cross country within the time, ending the weekend on a score of 44.

This Advanced division fared well around Morgan Rowsell’s cross country track, with only three of the sixteen starters having problems. Show jumping proved to be influential however. Only four pairs in this group managed faultless rounds: Katie Ruppel & Foreign Affair, William Hoos & Ducati, Amanda Beale Clement & Get Ready, and Emily Beshear and Silver Night Lady.

Megan Lynn and The Natural E. Photo via Megan’s Facebook Page.

In the first Open Intermediate group, Megan Lynn took home blue with The Natural E. They led from start to finish, adding only 3.2 cross country time penalties to their dressage score of 26.5. This time last year “Leo” was cruising around training level, and Megan has piloted him successfully up the levels to this win at his second Intermediate.

Hallie Coon and Celien finished on their dressage score (29.8) for second place, followed by Buck Davidson and Park Trader on a score of 32.3.

Victory in the Open Intermediate-B went to Emily Beshear and Olney Uncle Sam. This pair picked up .8 time penalties on the cross country to finish on 34.1. Emily got the ride this spring, and the pair has now won four of their five horse trials together.

Boyd Martin swooped in for second with Long Island T. One rail down and 2.8 time penalties on cross country gave them a finishing score of 39.3

Caitlin Tierney and Killea Gynis View earned third place with a 39.9. They added just 3.2 cross country time penalties to their dressage score (36.7).

Chattahoochee Hills H.T.

At Chattahoochee Hills, Leslie Law ruled the Open Intermediate from start to finish with the Law Eventing Syndicate’s Cooleys Rule of Law. A 31.5 on the flat put them out in front, and 10.4 time on cross country and 2 time in show jumping handed them the win on a final result of 43.9. You might remember this horse from Leslie’s epic AEC Save in 2015, but he seems all grown up now!

Ashley Kehoe took second with Kehoe Enterprise’s Kiltealy Toss Up. The pair were in third after earning a 36.9 in dressage, and kept it after picking up 11.6 time penalties across country. They ultimately finished in the reserve spot with one rail down and two time added in show jumping.

Kingfisher Park’s Forever Young ended the weekend in third with Dana Cooke in the tack. 37.7 on the flat, 12.8 time on cross country and a single pole down gave them a final result of 54.5.

Fourth-place finishers Zackary Brandt and Vasiliev ended on 60.5 and were the only pair to have a double clear show jumping round.

Chattahoochee Hills has a quick turnaround to their second summer event next weekend, which will also host the Area III Championships.

Horse Park of New Jersey I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

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

 

USEA Unveils a New Look for Discover Eventing

By on Jul 2, 2017 11:00 am -

The issue of making eventing more known and understood in the eyes of the general public has plagued the sport for years, and pressure from bodies like the IOC only make these efforts more important for the sport. Dedicated to education, our friends at the USEA have recently re-introduced Discover Eventing, a handy resource eventers can share with our non-three-day counterparts when they ask “What Is Eventing?”

Screenshot via Discover Eventing.

The webpage gives a reader-friendly rundown on the sport and its three phases. Next time a friend asks you how your “horse race” went, you can easily clear things up for them by sending the link, www.DiscoverEventing.com. 

Screenshot via Discover Eventing.

Ok they know about eventing, now what? The “Get Involved” tab shows the many options for enthusiasts to get a taste of the sport from competing, to volunteering to owning an event horse.

Screenshot via Discover Eventing.

For riders switching to eventing or just starting out, Discover Eventing also has a step-by-step guide to the ins and outs of their first competition under the tab “My First Event.” It is a great resource for those looking for clarification on how to enter an event, what to wear or what to expect of the big day. 

The USEA is dedicated to educating both current eventers and potential new event enthusiasts and this site is an extension of the efforts. Check it out at DiscoverEventing.com and let us know what you think in the comments.  

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Jul 2, 2017 12:01 am -

Yay! Photo by Ellie Glaccum.

You can’t help but say “yay!” when you see this picture. Everyone deserves a coach like Jennie Brannigan. Instructors can make or break your experience in the sport, and I’ve been lucky that all of mine have been very supportive and encouraging. I hope yours have too. Let’s hear it for all the fantastic teachers who make eventing fun!

National Holidays: World UFO Day and National I Forgot day. Coincidence? I think not.

U.S. Weekend Action:

Horse Park of New Jersey I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

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

South Farm H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Sunday Links: 

Abuse: Several Faces, All Ugly 

Editorial: This Embarrassing Display of Privilege in our Sport Must Stop

Quentin Judge: Chasing a Childhood Dream

Pin the Lead-Line, Then Hide in the Porta-Potty

Intercollegiate Team Challenge Coming to Tryon Riding & Hunt Club H.T.

Entries Open for the First Hannah Francis One-Day Event

Pony Mad Mum’s Blog: Who’s in Charge? The Art of Natural ‘Humanship’

Adding Fuel to the Fire: How Diet Effects Horse Behavior

Sunday Video: A dressage rider, a show jumper and an eventer walked into a bar… just kidding, they all got together for Champions Live! A Q&A organized by the Kentucky Three-Day Event at this year’s competition. Open to the public, audience members could ask anything they’d like, so if you want to hear from Silva Martin, Melanie Smith Taylor and Phillip Dutton, set some time aside for this:

US Equestrian Releases 2017 Eventing High Performance Summer Training Lists

By on Jul 1, 2017 5:44 pm -

Matthew Brown and Super Socks BCF. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

US Equestrian has named the Eventing High Performance Summer Training Lists for 2017. The High Performance Program continues to include Elite, Development and Merging Athlete Programs, but new to this summer’s list is a two-tiered system for the Development Program.

Here is the tier breakdown from the USEF:

“Tier 1 is designed to support experienced international athletes who have horses that are on a trajectory to reach the Elite criteria in the next four years and experienced international athletes who have horses that do not meet the Elite criteria but remain in contention for selection for the next World or Olympic Games.”

“Tier 2 is designed for athletes who have not previously attained team selection or Elite criteria that are on a trajectory to achieve Elite status in this or the next four-year period.”

US Equestrian also included that no changes have been made to the previously announced 2017 Emerging Athlete Program’s participant list. 

Congratulations to the following horses and riders!

ELITE PROGRAM 

Hannah Sue Burnett (The Plains, Va.) with Jacqueline Mars’s Harbour Pilot and Mary Ann Ghadban’s Under Suspection

Matt Brown (Cochranville, Pa.) with Blossom Creek Foundation’s Super Socks BCF

Phillip Dutton (West Grove, Pa.) with Kristine and John Norton’s I’m Sew Ready, HND Group’s Mighty Nice, and Thomas Tierney, Simon Roosevelt, Suzanne Lacy, Ann Jones, and Caroline Moran’s Z

Lauren Kieffer (Middleburg, Va.) with Team Rebecca, LLC’s Veronica and Marie Le Menestrel’s Meadowbrook’s Scarlett

Marilyn Little (Frederick, Md.) with Jacqueline Mars, Robin Parsky, and Phoebe and Michael Manders’s RF Scandalous

Boyd Martin (Cochranville, Pa.) with the Blackfoot Mystery Syndicate’s Blackfoot Mystery

DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM – TIER 1

Will Coleman (Charlottesville, Va.) with The Conair Syndicate’s Tight Lines and Four Star Eventing Group’s OBOS O’Reilly

Buck Davidson (Unionville, Pa.) with Carlevo LLC’s Carlevo

Phillip Dutton with the Revelation Group’s Fernhill Revelation

Lauren Kieffer with Debbie Adams and Jacqueline Mars’s D.A. Duras

Boyd Martin with Lucy Boynton Lie’s Crackerjack

Doug Payne (Aiken, S.C.) with Debi Crowley and Doug and Jessica Payne’s Vandiver

Lynn Symansky (Middleburg, Va.) with The Donner Syndicate, LLC’s Donner

Sharon White (Summit Point, W.Va.) with her own Cooley On Show

DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM – TIER 2

Katherine Coleman (New Orleans, La.) with Kalai, LLC’s Back to Business

Lillian Heard (Hamilton, Va.) with her own LCC Barnaby

Kurt Martin (Middleburg, Va.) with his and Carol and William Martin’s DeLux Z

[US Equestrian Names Eventing High Performance Summer Training Lists for 2017]

Social Media Roundup: Happy 150th, Canada!

By on Jul 1, 2017 3:00 pm -

Happy Canada Day! Here at EN we love our northern neighbors, and today we celebrate you! This day marks the 150th anniversary of the signing of the British North America Act, which united three colonies into a single Dominion in the British Empire called Canada.

Stephanie Rhodes-Bosh won for cutest picture. Her daughter Izzy’s smile is adorable!

Equestrian Canada made a special post today honoring Canada’s National Horse.

Happy Canada Day, EN!

Tuesday News & Notes from Cavalor

By on Jun 27, 2017 12:01 am -

Baby Payne Coming December 2017! Photo via Doug & Jessica Payne.

Oh boy! Looks like another eventing dynasty is expanding after Doug & Jessica Payne announced this weekend that they are expecting their first child. Since we already know the gender, the real question is: will he be more into eventing or show jumping? Either way, we’re looking forward to another baby on the scene. Congratulations Doug and Jessica!

Events Opening This Week: 

Area VII Young Rider Benefit H.T. (WA, A-7) Fair Hill International H.T. (MD, A-2) Otter Creek Summer H.T. (WI, A-4) Colorado Horse Park 3 Day Event & H.T. (CO, A-9) Erie Hunt and Saddle Club H.T. (PA, A-2) Stanton Farms H.T. (ID, A-7) WindRidge Farm Summer Horse Trials (NC, A-2) The Summer Event at Woodside (CA, A-6) GMHA Festival of Eventing August Horse Trials (VT, A-1)

Events Closing Today: 

Riga Meadow H.T. (CT, A-1) Genesee Valley Hunt H.T. (NY, A-1) Aspen Ridge H.T. (CO, A-9) The Maryland H.T. at Loch Moy Farm II (MD, A-2) Western Underground, Inc Coconino Summer HT & T/N3D Event (AZ, A-10) Champagne Run at the Park H.T. (KY, A-8)

News & Notes: 

Have you ever wanted to volunteer at an event, but were unsure of the skills you might need? Not to worry, the USEA just introduced a slew of new volunteer resources including helpful checklists and training videos to help you feel ready for the next event near you. [New Volunteer Training Resources Now Available]

It’s the ultimate rags to riches story as World Horse Welfare’s top rehomed rescue horses to make an appearance at the Burghley Horse Trials. The competition is open now to horses or ponies who were previously rescued by the organization. The top six will join a parade at Burghley where the overall winner will be announced. [Top Rehomed Horses to Appear at Burghley and in Horse & Hound]

Horseback riding is both a physical and mental game, and that becomes highlighted when a rider finds herself sidelined by an injury. Paige Cade shares her experience of managing with her training program from the ground, and the mental hardships that involves, after a fall this spring temporarily derailed her dreams. [Playing Catch Up]

Researchers have found crystals that equestrians will find especially valuable. Microscopic protein crystals in their horse’s cartilage that is. These have so far have only been found to exist in horses, and they are believed to be responsible for horse joints to withstand high levels of mechanical stress. [Your Horse’s Cartilage Has Bling]

Tuesday Video: 

Ever wanted to see the world from your horse’s perspective? You aren’t the only one. Lexington, Kentucky’s tourism website decided to act on it, and let horses film their newest ad campaign. As if we needed another reason to visit Lexington.

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Jun 25, 2017 12:01 am -

USEA CEO Rob Burk. Photo by Leslie Mintz.

We’re 65 days away from the 2017 American Eventing Championships, and no one is more excited than USEA CEO Rob Burk! In all seriousness, Rob and the entire USEA office work their tails off to make AEC an outstanding competition. It really is a hallmark weekend for riders of all levels, so if you have the chance, go!

And in the spirit of countdowns, there may be those who are missing the winter months in the midst of the summer heat. Don’t fret: today is National Leon Day! That means we’re exactly six months away from Christmas (Leon is Noel spelled backwards). It’s like Christmas in… June?

U.S. Weekend Action:

Groton House Farm H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Surefire H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

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

Stable View Summer H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Fox River Valley Pony Club H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Shepherd Ranch SYVPC H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Inavale Farm H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

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

Midsouth Pony Club H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Honey Run H.T. [Website] [Live Scores]

Sunday Links: 

Top Eventer Aims for Second Goodwood Win

Tips for Keeping Horses Safe During 4th of July Festivities

Save the Date for the 2017 USEA Annual Meeting and Convention

Therapy Pony with ‘Magic Touch’ Brings Joy to Disabled Children 

‘It’s A Lot Harder Than It Looks’: William Fox-Pitt Tries His Hand at Polo

US Equestrian Federation to Build A New HQ at Kentucky Horse Park

Sunday Video: Have you met Geoffry the Conqueror? He may be small but he’s becoming hugely popular, being featured on Horse & Hound and Horse Nation. Follow along on one of his many adventures.

2017 Chasin’ for Chalfin Race to Benefit Lee Lee Jones and Paddy Young

By on Jun 20, 2017 9:00 am -

Lee Lee Jones. Photo by Lisa Thomas.

When steeplechase jockey Jake Chalfin was paralyzed in a point-to-point race in 2010, his friends and family rallied to help. They created a fundraising committee to ensure Jake could focus on his rehabilitation without worrying of the expenses associated with his injuries, and this race was created as a major piece of the fundraising puzzle.

“The concept of the event started four years ago when my fundraising committee wanted to create an annual event to help offset my continued life-long medical expenses related to paralysis,” said Jake.

Jake Chalfin. Photo courtesy of Tod Marks.

And thus, The Chasin’ for Chalfin was born at the Runnymede Estate in Coatesville, PA as the last leg of the five race Trail Creek Series. As the race grew, it began grew to benefit other disabled athletes or organizations that provide adaptive sporting opportunities.

The event announced that this year’s race will benefit Lee Lee Jones, who is rehabilitating following a traumatic brain injury last fall, and Paddy Young, who suffered a riding accident last month at the Radnor Hunt Races. The race will be held this Saturday, June 24th, and will offer both 5 and 10K tracks.

“It has become a wonderful and much beloved community event,” Jake continued. “After the first year we decided that we would dedicate a portion of the funds raised to support other disabled athletes or organizations that provide adaptive sporting opportunities.”

Paddy Young. Photo courtesy of Tod Marks.

“This year we would like to include both Lee Lee Jones and Paddy Young as additional beneficiaries of this race. We hope that by tapping into the two different spheres of the eventing and racing world that we can really grow this event and raise a lot of money for Paddy and Lee Lee.”

As an extra incentive this year, equestrians are invited to get a group together for a Battle of the Barns. Teams with the best overall average placing in the 5K race will earn prizes including schooling passes for Boyd and Silva Martin’s Windurra Farm. Teams must include at least three members.

Local equestrians, trade your boots for some running shoes and help support Paddy and Lee Lee this Saturday! And if you can’t be there, sign up as a “virtual runner” to pledge your support to #TeamLeeLee!

To register as a runner (both actual and virtual), click here.

[Chasin’ for Chalfin Trail Race Raises Critical Funds for Injured Riders]

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Jun 18, 2017 12:01 am -

Finding your way to all the world’s four-stars. Photo via @turniergesellschaft_luhmuehlen on Instagram.

Wow! is all I can say about all five riders reppin’ the U.S. of A this weekend at Luhmühlen CCI4*. It’s thrilling to not only see our riders finish safely at this level, but successfully too. I will be cheering them on today as they take on the final phase of competition. Go USA!

Luhmühlen Links: Website, Entries, Schedule, SJ Starting Order, Live Scores, FEI TV, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

North American Weekend Action:

Little Bromont HT: [Live Scores]

Feather Creek Farm HT: [Website] [Ride Times & Live Scores]

Golden Spike HT: [Website] [Ride Times & Live Scores]

Come Again Farm Fathers Day HT: [Website] [Ride Times & Live Scores]

Bucks County Park HT: [Website] [Ride Times & Live Scores]

Silverwood Farm Spring HT: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Seneca Valley Pony Club Spring HT: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Full Gallop Farm June HT: [Website] [Ride Times]

Great Vista HT: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

War Horse Event Series June HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Sunday Links:

Horses Vs. Toddlers

Beyond Blazes: Horse Marks Seldom Seen

The Dressage Equation: Putting Together Training Knowledge, Rider Aids, and Equine Biomechanics 

Exploring Equine Seasonal Allergies

USEA Events A-Z: Aspen Ridge Horse Trials 

How Old Is Too Old for Colic Surgery?

Andalusian Gelding Acts as Nanny for Orphaned RSPCA Foal

ICYMI: Entries Now Open For 7th Annual EN Blogger Contest 

Sunday Video:

Summer is in full swing, which means horses and humans alike are eagerly searching for ways to stay cool. Some more creative than others:

 

 

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Jun 11, 2017 12:01 am -

Stella Artois and Cool As Ice. Photo via Jennie Brannigan’s Facebook Page.

Eventing can bring the highest highs and the lowest lows, and today was no exception. Jennie Brannigan piloted both Stella Artois and Cool As Ice clear through the finish flags on the CCI3* course, and if you caught Five Bromont Fast Facts from EquiRatings, you’ll know this means Jennie is on a hot streak of 28 consecutive clear FEI cross country runs. You go girl!

On the opposite hand, the eventing community mourns for the loss of Jaeda, who died yesterday at Bromont. My deepest condolences go to Booli, Kelly, Sarah and all those who were lucky to know this lovely mare.

Bromont Links: Website, Entries, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

Bramham Links: Website, Entries & Live Scores, XC Live Stream, EN’s Coverage

U.S. Weekend Action:

Larkin Hill H.T. [Website] [Ride Times]

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

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

The Middleburg H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Results]

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

Roebke’s Run CCI/CIC & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Queeny Park H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Copper Meadows H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Camelot Equestrian Horse Park H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Aspen Farms H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Derbyshire Farms H.T. [Website/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Sunday Links:

Tapwrit Wins 149th Belmont Stakes by Two Lengths Over Irish War Cry

ETB Equine Construction to Build Cross Country Course for 2018 World Equestrian Games

Runners and Horses Go Head to Head in Marathon

Exercises to Tune Your Eye for Jumps

After Earning Over $2 Million on the Track Twilight Eclipse Retired, to Begin Training in Eventing

Empowering the Spooky Horse and Person

Sunday Video: 

Meanwhile on the West Coast … Sabrina Glaser and Hypona To Be True are leading the Aspen Farms CIC2* division, moving up to fourth after a double clear show jumping. Check out their round over the colored poles:

Lots of changes to the CIC2* standings after a tough show jumping course. Sabrina Glaser and Hypona To Be True moved from fourth to first thanks to their clear round!Scores: http://eventing.startboxscoring.com/eventsr/aspen/ht0617/phase2_select.php?division=11&order=place

Posted by Aspen Farms Horse Trials on Saturday, June 10, 2017

Who Jumped It Best? Woodside Preliminary Challenge Edition

By on May 30, 2017 9:01 am -

It’s time for another exciting edition of Who Jumped It Best? This time we check out a few competitors from the popular Preliminary Challenge which was hosted last weekend at The Spring Event at Woodside.

Riders tackled Ian Stark’s challenging course on Saturday morning as the second phase of the competition, and these eight Preliminary pairs had their games faces on for #10AB — the log box to corner. Decide which of these combinations presents the best overall picture and vote at the poll below!

The Spring Event at Woodside: Website, Scores, Cross Country Course Walk, EN’s Coverage

Lauren Henry and Improvisor. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Alyssa Schaefer and Fuego. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Rebecca Braitling and Santana II. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Jennifer Wooten-Macouzet and Patina DCF. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Abigail Halstead and Sabina. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Margie Davis and Luminescence. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Mallory Hogan and Clarissa Purisima. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Jessica Gradillas and Sam Adams. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Woodside Wrap Up: James Alliston and Parker Take Home Advanced Win

By on May 29, 2017 9:00 am -

James Alliston and Parker. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

While all eyes were on the Preliminary Challenge this weekend, Woodside also hosted a small but mighty Advanced division which was won by James Alliston and his own Parker.

Coming off an unlucky tumble in Kentucky, James and the 15-year-old Thoroughbred started the weekend on a score of 31.9 and had the fastest round of the day across country, picking up 2.8 time penalties to move into the lead.

The duo handily won the division after a faultless show jumping round gave them a three-phase score of 34.7 — six points ahead of second place.

Alexis Helffrich and London Town. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Alexis Helffrich ended the weekend in second place with Pamela Williams’ London Town. They started the weekend on a 30.2, and added 10.8 time penalties on cross country to finish on a result of 41.

James Alliston and Happenstance. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

James made an second appearance in the top three with Mary McKee’s Happenstance. 33.1 in dressage and 6.8 cross country time penalties had them in second before the final phase, but an unlucky rail dropped them to third.

Helen Bouscaren and her own Ben made the biggest leap on this leaderboard. A dressage mark of 39.1 had them starting in ninth place, but a quick trip around both cross country and show jumping handed them a fourth place result.

Bunnie Sexton and her own Rise Against are the last pair to fill out this Advanced top five. This combination had 34.9 on the flat, 7.2 time penalties on cross country and one rail down for a cumulative score of 46.1.

Dressage leaders Heather Morris and Charlie Tango were unfortunately eliminated on cross country at fence nine, but all others in the division came home without jump penalties. In show jumping, three riders — James, Alexis and Heather — had double clear rounds.

That’s a wrap on another exciting weekend at Woodside!

The Spring Event at Woodside: Website, Entry Status/Ride, Times/Live Scores

Tiebreak Decides Woodside Preliminary Challenge

By on May 28, 2017 9:00 am -

Bec Braitling and Mallory Hogan. Photo by Shelby Allen.

This year’s Preliminary Challenge certainly did not disappoint! Both cross country and show jumping took their toll on the final standings, and it was finally Mallory Hogan in the rider division and Rebecca Braitling in the horse division who earned a win in the end.

When a single show jumping time penalty tied Erin Kellerhouse and Rebecca Braitling on 27 points, a mad dash ensued to decide who won the Preliminary Challenge Horse division. Not only did these ladies have an identical result, but they also clocked around cross country in the same exact time: 5 minutes and 34 seconds. Unfortunately for Erin, this meant that the best show jumping score would be the determining factor thanks to a recent amendment of EV132 and it choose Rebecca the winner today.

Bec Braitling and Santana II. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

“It was kind of surprising actually because Erin and James are usually not very easy to beat, so I was happy to go in and just have a clear round,” Bec said. She and Lauren Burnell’s Santana II left all the poles in their cups for this duo’s first competition together. They also had a very successful cross country, adding 1.6 time penalties to their score.

“We had a few green moments early on cross country, so I had to tone it down a little and not worry about the time as much and find a rhythm, but then she show jumped really really well this afternoon,” she added.

Though she fell from the lead, Erin still claimed second with her own Woodford Reserve, a 6-year-old Irish Sport Horse. While Erin might be kicking herself now, we know these two have nowhere to go but up from here!

David Adamo finished third with Christiana Rosenblatt’s Junit. After a 27.8 in dressage the 8-year-old Belgian Warmblood also came through the cross country finish flags with an identical time to match Erin and Bec.

Mallory Hogan and Clarissa Purisima. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Meanwhile in the rider division, Mallory Hogan took home blue with her own Clarissa Pruisima, a 9-year-old Hosteiner mare. The pair set out on cross country full of determination, and they moved into the lead after picking up 3.2 time penalties.

“I went out there knowing the time was going to be a little harder to make, so I rode everything in a forward rhythm and let her do her job,” Mallory said. “She loves cross country, that’s one of our strongest phases, so I just let her do her thing out there.”

Very last to go in the ring in front of a packed crowd, the pressure was weighing heavily on Mallory and “Clarissa.” But if she was nervous she didn’t show it. They had a fault free round to finish on a score of 34.6 for the win.

“After cross country when I saw that I moved up I knew the atmosphere was going to be a lot and I didn’t know how she was going to handle it, but she went in there today and she was really mature and grown up about it,” Mallory continued.

Second place went to Claire Poch and her own Kirschblüte 3, an 8-year-old Trakehner. They picked up 0.4 time penalties on cross country and 2 time penalties in show jumping for a final result of 36.9. Katelyn Grubich and the 15-year-old Thoroughbred Kaptain Jak finished third and the recipients of the OTTB High Point Award.

Our two winners are hoping to spend a lot more time with each other this summer as Bec coaches the Area VI Young Rider Team, and Mallory is hoping to represent that team at NAJYRC. Go Area VI!

Thanks for following the Preliminary Challenge action with us, EN!

The Spring Event at Woodside: Website, Live Scores/Ride Times, EN’s Coverage

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on May 28, 2017 12:01 am -

Jenna DeLisle and On The Spot. Photo by Shelby Allen.

It’s been a big weekend for eventing around the world, but no matter how many high-profile competitions I visit, I always find myself gravitating toward the lower levels. This is the heart and soul of the sport and it’s just plain fun! Plus, I can’t stay away from adorably spotted ponies like Kylie McKee’s On The Spot who is being ridden by Jenna DeLisle in the Junior Beginner Novice Rider division at Woodside this weekend. Three cheers for cute ponies!

International Events:

[Saumur Live Scoring]

[Houghton Hall Live Scoring]

U.S. Weekend Action:

Mystic Valley Hunt Club H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

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

Flora Lea Spring H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Paradise Farm H.T. [Website]  [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Willow Draw Charity H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

The Spring Event at Woodside H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Equestrians Institute H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

May-Daze at the Park H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Coconino Spring H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Sunday Links:

Could A Bitting Clinic Be The Answer to Your Problems?

Horse & Hound Grassroots Champs: The 100cm Leader Who Benefits From Beach Gallops and Sleepovers

Get Your Horse Trailer Organized and Back on Track

Why Close Encounters with Animals Soothe Us

17 Schools Represented at Second Annual USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championship

Coco Fath Pulls Off a Winning Devon

Sunday Video: 

Take a spin around the Preliminary track at Virginia Horse Trials with Doug Payne and Quantum Leap:

 

‘I’m Living My Dream!’: Leslie LaBraque Leads Woodside Preliminary Challenge

By on May 26, 2017 8:46 pm -

Leslie LaBraque and Falkonet. Photo courtesy of Woodside.

This weekend is chock-full of competition both domestically and internationally, and standing proudly on the West Coast is the Spring Event at Woodside which once again features the $15,000 Preliminary Challenge. After a full day of dressage, Erin Kellerhouse and  Leslie LaBraque emerged as the best placed in the two challenge divisions.

In the Preliminary Challenge Rider division, Leslie LaBraque and her own Falkonet, an 18-year-old Thoroughbred, found themselves at the very top of the leaderboard after securing a score of 30.2 on the flat.

“I was shocked actually. I went off course twice!” Leslie said in disbelief. “The second time I just completely lost focus, but in my mind I was like, ‘just do good on the other stuff.’ After the first mistake, seeing people in the past do so well, I thought, ‘I’m done.’” Little did she know that she was far from finished as they now lead this 21-entry division.

Without daily access to a riding arena, Leslie and “Falco” have gotten creative. “At home I don’t have a dressage arena. I ride in between orange groves and I take him to the beach once a week. It has really helped our lateral work. When the waves come in he’s like ‘Whoa!’” Leslie explained as she reenacted his leg yielding abilities. “I recommend that for anyone who is having problems with lateral work!”

This duo have been together for two years, and competing in the Preliminary Challenge has been a major bucket list item they can finally check off. “I got Falco two years ago and he was owned by professionals and I’m an amateur and my goal was to do the Prelim Challenge and to do a one-star, so I’m living my dream right now. I’m almost 60 years old!” she beamed.

Mallory Hogan and Clarissa Purisima. Photo courtesy of Woodside.

Mallory Hogan piloted her own Clarissa Purisima to second place in this division. The 9-year-old Holsteiner mare (Limmerick I x Briza) sits on 31.4 penalty points.

“I was really happy with her. I was a little concerned as to how she would handle the environment for her first time being in that big ring, but she went in and she was really focused. I asked her to do her job and she was really on task. I’m so proud of her,” Mallory shared.

This pair have eyes on representing Arae VI for a second time at NAJYRC this summer, and the Preliminary Challenge is proving to be a perfect preparation. “I got her to be my Young Rider horse and to move up the levels,” Mallory explained. “She’s a really good horse with a great brain. I’ve had a really great time experiencing everything with her. We decided to do the challenge this time as a fun way to get in a competitive division before Montana.”

Alyssa Schaefer and her own Fuego, an 8-year-old Dutch Warmblood, round out the top three on a score of 33. Margie Davis takes fourth place on her own Luminescence with a score of 33.2, and just behind in fifth place is Lauren Henry and her own Improvisor on 33.3 points.

Erin Kellerhouse and Woodford Reserve. Photo courtesy of Woodside.

Woodford Reserve, who was identified just six days ago in our “EN’s Got Talent” series, leads the Preliminary Challenge Horse division with Erin Kellerhouse in the tack.

“He was very business like he went in there and did his job. He was just a good boy and with me every second,” Erin said. “I thought his medium trot was really nice, and he’s always relaxed in the free walk. The reinback was the only part that I didn’t like. He’s a little offended by it. He doesn’t understand why he has to back up.”

The 6-year-old Irish Sport Horse by Tinarana’s Inspector earned a score of 24.4 today, which is just 0.1 behind his personal best at this level.  

“Woody” is relatively green at the level, but shows a lot of promise. “It’s his third Prelim, so it will be a lot of course for him. I’m definitely going to have to ride. He’s pretty honest and wants to do the job, he just needs a little time to think about it. If I ride him well and give him a good set up, he’ll be good,” Erin said as she trekked around the Woodside cross country course. 

Rebecca Braitling finished the day in second place with catch-ride Santana II, a 7-year-old Oldenburg owned by Lauren Burnell.

“We purchased her in January from England and then Lauren got pregnant, so then all the sudden we were like, ‘oh I guess I’ll start riding her.’ She had ridden her at two or three shows and then I got to take her over,” Rebecca explained.

Tomorrow’s cross country will be an exciting challenge for this fresh pair as they become better acquainted. “It looks tough out there,” Rebecca said. “They’re using the coffin from the one-star. I’ve schooled her and I’ve jumped her, so I’m pretty confident. She’s a smart mare. I’m excited to see what she’s got.”

James Alliston holds third with Helen Bouscaren’s Baron on a score of 26.6. David Adamo sits in fourth place with Christiana Rosenblatt’s Junit on 27.8. Marc Grandia and Team Rebecca’s Campari FFF are in fifth place carrying 28.2 penalty points into the jumping phases.

Heather Morris and Charlie Tango. Photo courtesy of Woodside.

While the Preliminary Challenge sits in the spotlight this weekend, the Advanced division also completed the first phase of competition today.

In this group, Heather Morris and The Team Express Group’s Charlie Tango landed the leading position. The 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse  (Shannondale Sarco St. Ghyvan x Our Queen Bee) earned a 30 on the flat, which matches his score from his only other start at this level.

Alexis Helffrich and London Town, a 10-year-old Warmblood owned by Pamela Williams, scooted into second place on a score of 30.2.

James Alliston filled out third and fourth place with his own Parker and Mary McKee’s Happenstance, respectively. Tamra Smith and Judy McSwain’s Fleeceworks Royal are the final pair in the top five after earning a score of 33.7.

We head into a busy day of cross country and show jumping for the Preliminary Challenge competitors tomorrow, so stay tuned for an action-packed West Coast finale!

The Spring Event at Woodside: Website, Live Scores/Ride Times, Cross Country Course Walk, EN’s Coverage

Hello California! 2017 Woodside Preliminary Challenge Course Walk

By on May 25, 2017 8:06 pm -

11 – Slab Table. Photo via Woodside’s Facebook Page.

West coast riders are gearing up for the 2017 Spring Event at Woodside which features 22 divisions including the the ninth annual Preliminary Challenge.

The Preliminary Challenge is a special competition held each year that gives horses and riders who have not yet competed above Preliminary level a taste of top class competition (with top class prize money!) tailored specifically for them. Forty-seven competitors are entered across the horse and rider challenge divisions this year. 

The competition begins tomorrow at 8:00 am with the Preliminary Rider Challenge division, followed by the Preliminary Horse Challenge division at noon. In addition to the Challenge divisions, EN will also be following the Advanced division which begins with dressage tomorrow at 11 am. 

Ian Stark returns as course designer for all levels this weekend, and we got an up close look at the Preliminary Challenge course thanks to our friends at Woodside! The course includes 27 jumping efforts over 2,860 meters. Riders will be aiming to come in under the optimum time of 6 minutes and 30 seconds. Check out the course walk below:

The Spring Event at Woodside: Website, Entry Status/Ride Times, EN’s Coverage

 

Sir Rockstar’s Career Continues with Erin Jarbo at Intercollegiate Championships

By on May 24, 2017 2:00 pm -

Libby Head on Courtney Cook’s Honey and Erin Jarbo on Rocky. Photo by Courtney Cook.

Pint-sized eventing superstar Sir Rockstar first captured the hearts of eventing enthusiasts in 2014 when he and his rider, then 22-year-old Libby Head, nailed a top-20 result in their first CCI4* appearance at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event.  

Despite a trip to the French four-star at Pau getting sidelined later that year, their fairy tale continued at Badminton in 2015 thanks to a bit of grit, determination, and the $10,000 Essex Grant. Not one to stray from tradition, “Rocky” again jumped his heart out to make Libby the highest-placed 25 and under rider.

Libby Head and Sir Rockstar at Badminton. Photo by Shannon Brinkman

An unlucky fall at Burghley later that year thwarted their chance at a third four-star completion and, fans wondered, what now for the little superstar? At 18, he had truly reached the ultimate highs of the sport and had given Libby a ride of a lifetime.

“Rocky came out this year and did the Intermediate at Red Hills and was great at his first time out since Burghley. We kind of had plans to go to Rolex, so we did Advanced at Poplar in March, and he had two uncharacteristic stops in show jumping, so we were eliminated,” Libby explained. “He hasn’t stopped in the nine years I’ve had him so it made me step back and see what I really wanted to do with him this year because he is 19.”

Libby was confounded with a difficult decision. Her longtime partner, who wasn’t showing any physical limitations, was suddenly saying no.

“He has nothing at all to prove, so I started thinking of leasing him out to teach someone else how he taught me. I didn’t really want to say the ‘R’ word either, so this was another option,” she said, knowing Rocky truly wasn’t ready for the dreaded ‘R’ word: retirement. Wheels began turning to find Rocky a more appropriate job as he neared his twilight years.

Conveniently, at the same time that Libby was considering sharing her super special guy, Erin Jarbo, a teammate of Libby’s from the University of Georgia Eventing Team, was looking for a catch ride for the USEA Intercollegiate Championships.

Erin Jarbo and Sir Rockstar. Photo courtesy of Erin.

“He’s one of those horses that you don’t have to be a four-star rider to ride him, and my friends have ridden him all the time, so I wasn’t hesitant to have someone lease him. I thought he would be his normal self and take care of someone,” Libby continued.

And thus, a new partnership was born and Erin had her chance at her own ride of a lifetime.

“It’s been pretty amazing to ride something that’s so experienced. My first impression was that I walked and trotted and he felt like a normal horse, but then I cantered and I was like, ‘Whoa! This is why he’s a four-star horse!’” Erin beamed. “His canter is so powerful and has so much jump to it. He’s fun on the flat and has tricks I’ve never been able to school before.”

Though Erin returns to the USEA Intercollegiate Championships at the Virginia Horse Trials this weekend as a defending champion, she’s keeping the focus on having a fun and successful experience with her new ride. “My main goal is to finish on my dressage score whatever that may be. Hopefully it’s a good one!” she smiled.

Rocky hasn’t competed at Novice level since 2008, but we’re pretty sure he’ll happily show his new jockey the ropes. If you’re at the Virginia Horse Trials this weekend, be sure to give a big cheer (not during dressage!) for EN’s 2014 Horse of the Year, Sir Rockstar.

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on May 21, 2017 12:01 am -

Lazy Sunday. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Yawn! What a weekend. I moved myself, my horse and all my belongings from Middleburg, Virginia, to Atlanta, Georgia on Saturday. It’s a strange, but liberating feeling to have your entire life fit in a two horse bumper pull. All I can say now is that I’m glad to be out of that truck!

 

U.S. Weekend Action:

Hitching Post Farm H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Results]

Kent School Spring H.T. [Website] [Ride Times]

Fair Hill May H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

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

Otter Creek Spring H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

CCC Spring Gulch H.T. [Website] [Ride Times]

Sunday Links:

Grandmother Scores First BE Win Aged 69

Popular Preliminary Challenge Returns for a Ninth Year at The Spring Event at Woodside

Laura Graves Shares Tools on Working Through Tension

Tired of Explaining Your Sport to Your Friends? Check Out DiscoverEventing.com

You and Your Horse Can Become Environmentally Friendly

Freakness at the Preakness: The Running of the Urinals

Sunday Video:

Cloud Computing managed to edge ahead of Classic Empire and Kentucky Derby winner Always Dreaming to win the Preakness Stakes yesterday:

 

 

David O’Connor Takes On Training & Preliminary Course Design at Waredaca

By on May 17, 2017 8:30 am -

David O’Connor teaching a clinic at Waredaca. Photo by Sarah Gonzalez.

Though he’s designed many Intermediate cross country courses at Waredaca Horse Trials, David O’Connor will now expand his responsibilities to include laying out the Training and Preliminary tracks, beginning with the June horse trials this year.

David, who is is licensed through the 3*/4* level, first started designing at Waredaca in 2009, and he is taking on these new levels with a fresh sense of vision for the Laytonsville, Maryland venue.

“We’re trying to look at the property in a new way, with a multi-year plan to build some new features there,” David said. “We are trying to change the features around a little bit to give us more flexibility for the future.”

Mounds, which are slated to be built this summer, and a new facelift for the water complexes are among the planned changes for Waredaca’s course.

“Waredaca has always been a good working event for riders in Area II to get their practice done and their qualifications,” David said. “It’s a good course because you can run clockwise and counterclockwise in the spring and the autumn with the multiple events they have.”

David has a storied experience with Waredaca, having spent countless hours riding there as a child while growing up in the area, which makes this project even more exciting for him and the venue’s dedicated team.

“In many ways, this was David’s ‘home’ event and I believe still holds a unique and special place for him,” Gretchen Butts, event organizer, said. “His mother, Sally, was the person who started Robert and I organizing events in 1979, and we never looked back. David, too, has always been very supportive of our work here and has been very generous with his talent, time and efforts with the design aspect.”

Of course having a designer of this caliber at a local event is exciting, but what riders are always dying to know is what they can expect from the new course.

“It’s more of a move-up kind of course,” David said. “It’s a course at the beginning of the summer, so they aren’t overly technical, but they will all be up to size because I am a believer that the straightforward fences should be up to size. It’s a good place for educating riders and horses, and that’s the main goal.”

David’s Training and Preliminary courses will debut at Waredaca Horse Trials on June 3-4, 2017. Steph Kohr will return to work alongside David as the Beginner Novice and Novice cross country course designer.

Interested in learning more from David at Waredaca? He will be leading an Expert Day at the venue next Monday, May 22, which still has a few riding spots spots available and is free to auditors. Click here for more information.

Waredaca H.T.: Omnibus, Entry Status, Website