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Pierre Le Goupil Appointed as Paris 2024 Eventing Course Designer

By on Feb 25, 2022 9:00 am -

Pierre Le Goupil appointed Eventing Course Designer for Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Photo © Pierre Le Goupil.

The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) has confirmed the appointment of Pierre Le Goupil (FRA) as Course Designer for Eventing at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

A master in his field and highly respected by his peers in a role that requires enormous skill, Pierre Le Goupil (59) knows the sport from both sides of the fence. Born in a family entirely dedicated to horse sport and breeding, his father Andre Le Goupil had been a member of the French Eventing squad at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City – a memory that Le Goupil still has clear in his mind.

“Taking part in the Olympic Games, somehow or other and whatever your role, can be seen as an absolute dream or the pinnacle in a career. I feel honoured to be appointed for the Paris Olympic Games as the Eventing Course Designer of a cross-country course held in the park of Versailles palace,” Pierre Le Goupil said.

“It is truly something like getting the “job of a life”! But it is also and above all a huge challenge that I am totally aware of. The fabulous opportunity of running the Olympic Equestrian Sports in such an iconic venue also commits all those who will be in charge of the event, to the highest level of responsibility.

“I am extremely thankful to those who trust and support me and I am excited to start racking my brains in that inspirational playground,” Le Goupil concluded.

A former top-level Eventing athlete, he competed up to five star level at international events from 1975 to 2002. He has been involved in organising events since 1995, and with his family created « Le Grand Complet », the biggest equestrian event in Normandy (FRA) and one of the most important in France and Europe. The event moved in 2010 to the Haras National du Pin.

His skill and proficiency in course designing has taken him to many parts of the world, working in ten different countries including Brazil, Bulgaria, Belarus, China, Hungary, India, Japan, Russia and Chile. His appointment for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is an endorsement of his accomplishments and a true reflection of his wealth of experience which has also recently led him to being appointed as Course Designer for the upcoming Pan American Games to be held in Santiago (CHI) in 2023 and the FEI European Championships 2023 which will take place in Haras du Pin (FRA).

Le Goupil continues designing and building courses for international events in France. His expertise in consulting, cross country building and designing for all levels will make equestrian sport shine, not only in his home country, one of the world’s greatest equestrian nations, but to a global audience during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, in the most exhilarating and prestigious setting at the Château de Versailles, an iconic symbol recognised worldwide.

“I am very happy that a French representative has been chosen to build the Olympic Cross Country course, in his home country, on a site with such historic value”, David O’Connor Chair of the FEI Eventing Committee said.

“Le Goupil has travelled the world designing courses at top international shows and the Olympics is the pinnacle of any sporting achievement. There is enormous pride in representing your country in a sport and profession you have dedicated your life to, and to be recognised on the greatest sporting international stage.

O’Connor continues, “as a former Olympian myself, I can only reiterate the feeling of pride when competing for your country – it exudes from within. It’s a unique experience for athletes, for fans and everyone involved in the Games. There is nothing that compares to the nostalgia you get when you walk onto the Olympic site knowing all that you have worked for to get there. Your roots, your heritage, your culture, and your place of living all on display to the world, the expectations are high but such an honour is irreplaceable.

“Working alongside the Paris 2024 Organising Committee and supported by an exceptional team, there is no doubt Le Goupil will pay homage to his great nation through the creation of the cross country course – demanding, technical and spectacular, but always with the horse welfare at the fore, showcasing key features of Versailles as the centre stage of the equestrian competitions”.

Le Goupil was elected a member of the FEI Eventing Committee in 2020 for a four year term.

US Equestrian Announces Athletes for the 2022 Eventing Development Athlete Program

By on Feb 24, 2022 3:42 pm -

Woods Baughman and C’est La Vie 135. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

US Equestrian has announced the athletes selected for the 2022 Eventing Development Athlete Program. The Development Program is a step in the eventing pathway with the objective of supporting athletes with the potential to reach Elite or Pre-Elite status within the next two to three years.

The Development Program is for athletes of any age who have achieved benchmark results at the CCI3*-L or CCI4*-L level(s) within the last 12 months and have not previously competed on an Olympic Games, World Championship, or Pan American Games team for eventing. Click here to view the full Development Training List Criteria.

Upon the completion of the Eventing Elite Program Task Force’s work, a review of the Development Program selection and retention criteria and processes will be conducted to ensure the Program is cohesive with the restructured Elite/Pre-Elite Programs.

Alyssa Phillips and Oskar. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Athletes named to the Development Program will work with U.S. Eventing Development and Emerging Coach, Leslie Law, in order to further advance the skills needed to progress up the pathway and ultimately be prepared to represent the U.S. in international competition.

“The Development list for 2022 certainly does not disappoint,” said Law. “This is a great group of riders with some fantastic horses. I’m very much looking forward to helping this group achieve the results they are capable of. America has much to be proud of in this program.”

The following athlete/horse combinations have been named to the 2022 Eventing Development Athlete Program, in alphabetical order:

  • Woods Baughman (Lexington, Ky) and C’est La Vie 135, a 2008 Hanoverian gelding owned by Woods, Kim, and James Baughman Jr.
  • Ariel Grald (Southern Pines, N.C.) and Forrest Gump 124, a 2011 Hanoverian gelding; Diara, a 2014 Hanoverian mare; and Isla de Coco, a 2014 Holsteiner gelding, all owned by Annie Eldridge
  • Lillian Heard (Cochranville, Pa.) and Dassett Olympus, her own and Deborah Greenspan’s 2013 Irish Sport Horse gelding
  • Kurt Martin (Marshall, Va.) and D.A. Lifetime, a 2012 Holsteiner mare owned by Debbie Adams
  • Caroline Martin (Miami Beach, Fla.) and Redfield Champion, a 2014 Hanoverian gelding; and HSH Vamonos, both owned by Caroline and Sherrie Martin
  • Andrew McConnon (Vass, N.C.) and Ferrie’s Cello, a 2012 Warmblood gelding owned by Caroline Martin and Jeanne Shigo
  • Caitlin Silliman (Kennett Square, Pa.) and Ally KGO, a 2011 Trakehner mare owned by Caitlin Silliman and the Ally KGO Syndicate, LLC
  • Alyssa Phillips (Fort Worth, Texas) and Oskar, a 2009 Holsteiner gelding owned by Alyssa and June Phillips

To learn more about the Eventing Pathway Program, please contact Christina Vaughn, Director of Eventing Programs and Program Support, at [email protected].

Cloud 11 ~ Gavilan North LLC Carolina International Partners with Industry Leading Media Sponsors

By on Feb 23, 2022 12:11 pm -

Andrew McConnon and D’Luxe Steel. Photo by Brant Gamma Photography.

The Carolina International Organizing Committee is delighted to welcome a host of cutting-edge equestrian businesses as media partners for the 2022 event running March 24-27. Ride EquiSafe has joined Carolina International as the Official Media Sponsor, while the CrossCountry App will serve as the Official Mapping Partner. Additionally, Horse & Country returns as the Host Broadcaster for the live stream of international divisions which will once again be supported by data and analytics from EquiRatings.

Offering the broadest selection of equestrian safety equipment in North America, Ride EquiSafe specializes in air vests, body protectors, safety stirrups, MIPS helmets, and air vest compatible clothing. Catherine Winter, owner of Ride EquiSafe, states “our goal is to educate riders about the latest technology and best options to keep them safe in the saddle so they can make the most informed decisions for themselves. We look forward to sharing our safety gear and knowledge at the Carolina International.”

As the Official Mapping Partner, the CrossCountry App will assist riders in reviewing Carolina International cross country course maps on this game-changing app that provides GPS accurate maps, fence photos and timing information. “We are thrilled to be delivering innovative, interactive maps for the Carolina international. They will help riders to prepare, spectators to get the utmost from their visit and fans following online to fully understand the questions posed by Ian Stark,” said CrossCountry App co-founder, Helen Diacono.

In addition to providing insightful data, analytics and competition statistics for the H&C Live Steam and its commentators EquiRatings will once again provide social media updates and infographics to engage eventing fans both onsite and those following online.

“The Carolina International is a feature event at the start of the US eventing season, regularly bringing together one of the most-competitive CCI4*-S classes on US soil. EquiRatings is delighted to support the event’s media coverage again this year,” said Diarm Byrne, EquiRatings Managing Director. “The 2022 Carolina International Preview episode will be live on March 23 and fans can listen for free via all podcast platforms.”

For competition information and a complete list of the 2022 Carolina International sponsors, please visit www.carolinainternationalcci.com.

Long Live the Horse: A Brand Refresh for Zoetis Equine

By on Feb 17, 2022 1:00 pm -

All horse caregivers know that when horses recognize care and dedication, they return it tenfold. The Zoetis U.S. Equine division is by the side of horses and their caregivers every day, helping strengthen those relationships by providing a health care portfolio designed to help horses live happier, healthier lives.

As part of the company’s Long Live the Horse campaign introduced at the 2021 American Association of Equine Practitioners Annual Convention & Trade Show, Zoetis Equine has sharpened its core strategic focus. This refined focus recognizes that because horses add so much to the lives of the people who love and care for them, it is imperative that we help give horses the best possible care over their lifetimes in return.

“This new initiative embodies our internal mantra, ‘Ask not what your horse can do for you, ask what you can do for your horse,’” said Jen Grant, head of marketing, Zoetis U.S. Equine. “It’s a bold stance to suggest that our products and services are not about getting more out of the horse, but rather doing more for her. It’s this profound sense of purpose that fuels us and fuels the equine veterinarians and owners who represent our customer base.”

A diverse and growing portfolio supports comprehensive horse care

As a division of the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis Equine is relentlessly committed to the industry, to horses, and to the people who love and care for them. The company fosters the horse-human bond through dedicated teams of equine veterinarians, equine sales specialists and horse-savvy customer service representatives who provide expertise and support to both equine veterinary professionals and horse owners every step of the way. As the U.S. Equine division of Zoetis has aligned its team of professionals to provide great service, it has positioned the elements in its product portfolio to address the needs of both veterinarians and horse owners.

“Veterinarians are familiar with Zoetis products, and horse owners know some of our signature offerings such as QUEST® Gel dewormer, Pro-Stride® APS regenerative therapy device and CORE EQ INNOVATOR® vaccine,” said Grant. “Now, Zoetis’ revamped marketing is making a stronger connection between its equine portfolio and what horse owners and veterinarians may need to give their horses the right care. Our evolved branding reflects our commitment to always being by the side of horses and their caregivers in providing the products, education and support to help horses live their best lives.”

With vaccines that help protect against potentially fatal diseases; diagnostic instruments that offer convenience; medications that facilitate sedation, pain management, respiratory health, and treatment of parasites among other health concerns; trailblazing regenerative medicine devices; and advanced nutritional support, Zoetis demonstrates clearly and confidently that it is a company committed to making horses and their well-being its first priority across the continuum of care and throughout the full journey of a horse’s life.

To learn more about how Zoetis is making lives better for horses and those who care for them, visit zoetisequine.com and Zoetis Equine on Facebook and Instagram.

About Zoetis

As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After 70 years innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect and treat animal illness, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide, from livestock farmers to veterinarians and pet owners. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. A Fortune 500 company, Zoetis generated revenue of $7.8 billion in 2021 with approximately 12,100 employees. For more, visit zoetis.com.

The Zoetis Equine division is committed to providing horse care you can count on. Our team includes numerous equine veterinarians and other experts who are inspired daily by the opportunity and profound responsibility to support horses, the owners who love them and the equine veterinarians and other care team members who safeguard their well-being every day. Whether at the clinic or in the field, Zoetis is always by your side with a comprehensive, innovative portfolio of equine products and services at every step of a horse’s care and throughout the journey of a horse’s life.

In Keeping with the Times: Windrush Equestrian Foundation Announces Name Change

By on Feb 16, 2022 3:00 pm -

Christina Knudsen, Tim Price, and Wesko. Photo courtesy of the Wesko Equestrian Foundation.

The artist formerly known as the Windrush Equestrian Foundation has announced that it will be rebranding as the Wesko Equestrian Foundation in honour of Tim Price’s now-retired five-star winner who was owned by the late Christina Knudsen, in whose honour the British-based Foundation was launched three years ago. Though initially named for the property on which Knudsen lived, the Foundation’s board felt that the name — which mirrors that of the Windrush generation of Caribbean expatriates who relocated to Britain in the aftermath of the Second World War – represented a conflict of interests as the Foundation continues to expand its horizons.

“As an organisation, our bottom line has always been learning,” says the Board in a statement released today. “But learning is the investment of a lifetime and a process that never stops, and although the Foundation was named in good faith after the property that Ms Knudsen owned, the Foundation’s board has become increasingly cognisant of the complicated history of this name. One of the primary lessons that aspiring professionals under the Foundation’s tutelage learn is that to progress, you have to own and accept the wrong turns made along the way. As such, we’re retiring the name of Windrush and moving forward with Wesko as our figurehead.”

“As we continue to expand the newly rebranded Wesko Equestrian Foundation, our plans include the furthering of the Outreach Programme, which initially will see increased collaboration with the Brixton-based Ebony Horse Club, an excellent initiative that allows children from a diverse array of backgrounds to experience the joys of riding and horse care. For many of these children, the name ‘Windrush’ doesn’t evoke pastoral scenes of upper-level equestrian opportunities, and nor should it – instead, it refers to the generation of Caribbean expatriates who arrived in Great Britain in the decade following the Second World War and played an enormous part in rebuilding their adopted country’s economic system, often facing unspeakable discrimination and racial violence along the way.”

“Even now, the Windrush generation faces ongoing trauma, leaving many elderly people without access to social services and, in many cases, facing deportation over the past decade. Our decision to step away from our former moniker is one made out of respect to the Windrush generation and their descendants, many of whom we hope to welcome into our programme in the coming years. Our intention has never been to detract from their stories.”

Graduates of the Wesko Equestrian Federation include 2021 Blenheim CCI4*-L victor Yasmin Ingham. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The Outreach Programme was launched last year and will provide students of the Ebony Horse Club with a day of lessons with Foundation ambassador and World Number Three Tim Price. Previously, Ebony students have been invited to attend Foundation training days with Pippa Funnell at the Billy Stud, which allowed them to actively audit the sessions and learn to walk courses, set fences, and prepare for competition. Alongside the expansion of the Outreach Programme, the Wesko Equestrian Foundation – which currently supports up-and-coming young event riders already established at the international levels – is pledging to offer further support to riders at the lower levels, too, as well as expanding to developing eventing nations further afield to provide access points and education in the sport.

Another exciting new initiative is the Young Eventers Pathway, which will take place on the 15th and 16th of March at the British Showjumping Training Centre in Hothorpe. Upwards of 40 event riders between the ages of 21 and 28 will be able to participate in this fully-funded training day, with coaching from British chef d’equipes Richard Waygood and Philip Surl, as well as top dressage trainer Nikki Herbert.

“The goal at the heart of the Foundation continues to be, bringing increased education and training to talented young event riders to support their futures, with the welfare of the horse and rider at the heart of the programme,” says the Board.

 

482 Trainers Accepted to 2022 Thoroughbred Makeover

By on Feb 15, 2022 1:00 pm -

Image via RPP.

The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) announced today the acceptance of 482 trainers, including both individuals and team members, to the 2022 class of the Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, presented by Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA).

The Thoroughbred Makeover is the world’s largest and most lucrative retraining competition for ex-racehorses, awarding over $100,000 in prize money annually since 2015. The Makeover returns to its single-year format in 2022 after the postponement of the 2020 event led to a “double” Makeover in 2021, with two competition years running simultaneously. The 2022 Makeover will take place on October 12-15, 2022 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.

Open to professionals, juniors, amateurs, and teams, the Thoroughbred Makeover is a retraining competition for recently-retired ex-racehorses. Competition is available in ten disciplines, with trainers choosing to compete in up to two: barrel racing, competitive trail, dressage, eventing, field hunter, polo, ranch work, show hunter, show jumper, and freestyle (a free-form discipline to demonstrate skills of the trainer’s choice).

All horses compete in preliminary rounds in their respective disciplines, with the top five in each discipline returning for the Finale Championship on Saturday to determine final placings. A panel including all discipline judges will determine the overall Thoroughbred Makeover Champion and a $10,000 cash prize; a popular vote by in-person and online spectators will determine the People’s Choice Award who wins the right to direct a donation to an equine charity of their choosing.

“TCA has been a supporter of the Makeover since the beginning because we believe strongly in the mission of the RRP,” said Erin Halliwell, executive director of TCA. “The RRP and its programming have made a positive impact on the lives of thousands of Thoroughbreds over the years. We congratulate the trainers accepted into the 2022 Makeover and appreciate your dedication to Thoroughbreds.”

Accepted trainers are encouraged to register their horses at TBMakeover.org as soon as they acquire them; horse registration closes on July 29, 2022. As horses are registered, they will appear on the entry list here. Trainers have signed up to bring a total of 505 horses.

The application process for the 2022 Thoroughbred Makeover required trainers to complete a “horseman’s resume” that detailed their training and competition experience and included riding video, allowing the application committee the best possible look at applicants’ experience levels and their ability to bring along a recently-retired Thoroughbred and compete at a large venue with a big environment. Applicants also furnished letters from their veterinarians stating that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to appropriately care for a horse transitioning off the track.

The Makeover has historically attracted a broad cross-section of the horse industry, represented by junior, amateur and professional equestrians, as well as teams (allowing families, stables, or collegiate teams the opportunity to prepare a horse together). The great equalizer at the Makeover are the horses: eligible Thoroughbreds competing in 2022 will all come from similar backgrounds, with no more than 10 months of retraining for a second career and all having raced or trained to race within the past two years.

This format allows all trainers to all categories to compete side-by-side on equal footing. Juniors, amateurs and teams routinely enjoy great success at the Makeover and have earned top-five finishes; the 2017 Thoroughbred Makeover Champion Old Tavern was trained by junior Charlie Caldwell.

With the uncertainty of training green horses, the length of time between acceptance of trainers and final entry, and the fact that some horses sell before the Makeover, the RRP is once again offering a waitlist. Individuals who missed the initial round of applications are welcome to apply to the waitlist and can do so at TBMakeover.org/trainer-portal. The waitlist does not guarantee final entry into the competition, but does widen the impact of the Makeover and helps more horses transition to second careers.

New for 2022, the Makeover will also play host to The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.) Western Championships and Central Region Dressage Championships. After a successful implementation of the inaugural T.I.P. Barrel Racing Championships in 2021, the RRP and T.I.P. are expanding on their working relationship to add more opportunities for Thoroughbreds and Thoroughbred enthusiasts to make the most of the week at the Kentucky Horse Park.

For riders seeking a well-started off-track Thoroughbred for competition or pleasure, the ASPCA Makeover Marketplace will return in 2022, offering buyers and adopters the unique opportunity to watch a horse compete, trial ride, and complete a pre-purchase exam all in one location. New for 2022, the Makeover will offer the ASPCA Future Prospects barn, including recently-retired Thoroughbreds available for adoption from participating aftercare organizations.

“Although we’re back to our ‘normal’ Makeover schedule at the Kentucky Horse Park in October, we’re pleased to expand other aspects of the event to reach more Thoroughbred lovers and serve a broader portion of the aftercare industry,” said RRP executive director, Kirsten Green. “Hosting additional T.I.P. Championship classes and the pilot year of the ASPCA Makeover Marketplace Future Prospects barn is broadening the scope of the Thoroughbred Makeover and making it a true cornerstone event for Thoroughbred enthusiasts.”

The Makeover also provides ample opportunities for education for both trainers and the public, including the Thoroughbred Aftercare Summit, the seminar series, and the Makeover Master Class (a retraining demonstration featuring three trainers with their own unique approaches to initial training sessions with recently-retired Thoroughbreds). A vendor fair provides plenty of shopping opportunities for attendees as well.

The Thoroughbred Makeover is the flagship event for the RRP, a 501(c)(3) non-profit committed to increasing the demand and value of Thoroughbreds in their careers after racing. Sponsorship opportunities are available for the 2022 Thoroughbred Makeover: contact [email protected] for more information.

Thoroughbred Makeover fast facts:

  • The 2022 competition is open to any Thoroughbred that raced or had a published work after July 1, 2020 and did not start retraining for a second career before December 1, 2021.
  • Trainers indicate their primary discipline(s) of expertise on their applications, but are free to change disciplines as the competition approaches and they learn their horses’ strengths. A horse can compete in up to two disciplines, and a trainers can compete a maximum of three horses.
  • Trainers do not need to have obtained the horse they intend to compete at the time of application. Horses can be registered through July 31.
  • Participation in the Thoroughbred Makeover Marketplace sale is entirely voluntary, but many trainers take advantage of the extra exposure to market their horses. All sales are private contracts between individual trainers and buyers; the RRP is not involved and receives no commissions.

About the Retired Racehorse Project: The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) is a 501(c)3 charitable organization working to increase demand for off-track Thoroughbreds in the equestrian world. In addition to producing the Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium  the world’s largest and most lucrative retraining competition for recently-retired racehorses, the organization also publishes Off-Track Thoroughbred Magazine, produces the Master Class retraining clinic series, and presents programming at major horse expos and events around the country. The RRP maintains an educational library of content to empower more equestrians to ride a Thoroughbred.

 

The 2022 Thoroughbred Incentive Program Championships will Return to Stable View

By on Feb 6, 2022 10:30 am -

Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.) announced today that the T.I.P. Championships in hunters, jumpers, combined test, English pleasure, and English in-hand will return this year to Stable View in Aiken, South Carolina. The event will also include an East Coast Dressage T.I.P. Championship show.

The show will kick off with a welcome party on the evening of Thursday, October 6, and will run through Sunday, October 9.

“We are thrilled to be returning to Stable View for T.I.P. Championships in 2022,” said Kristin Werner, senior counsel for The Jockey Club and administrator of T.I.P. “Thoroughbreds continue to prove their versatility across a wide range of disciplines, and we are excited to again team up with Stable View to showcase and promote Thoroughbreds’ abilities beyond the racetrack.”

“We look forward to the return of TIP Championships to Stable View, and our intention is to make the event even better than last year,” said Barry and Cyndy Olliff, owners of the United States Equestrian Federation Elite Training Center. “With an added day of competition, and the recent completion of a sixth arena, we are prepared to welcome even more entries. As a bonus, this year, our rider lounges will be stocked with light refreshments during the day, followed by Stable View’s signature Graze & Gaze each evening.”

Qualifying information is available on the T.I.P. website at tjctip.com/About/CSI. Prize lists will be made available for the events in the spring. T.I.P. previously announced the dates of the Western T.I.P. Championships and Central Dressage Championships, which will be held in conjunction with the Retired Racehorse Project’s 2022 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, presented by Thoroughbred Charities of America, October 12-15, 2022, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky.

Created and announced in October 2011, T.I.P. recognizes and rewards the versatility of the Thoroughbred through sponsorship of Thoroughbred classes and high point awards at sanctioned horse shows, performance awards, and non-competition awards. In addition to the complete schedule of T.I.P.-sponsored shows, other information about the program is available on the T.I.P. website, tjctip.com. Those interested in T.I.P. can follow the program at facebook.com/tjctip.

The Jockey Club, founded in 1894 and dedicated to the improvement of Thoroughbred breeding and racing, is the breed registry for North American Thoroughbreds. In fulfillment of its mission, The Jockey Club, directly or through subsidiaries, provides support and leadership on a wide range of important industry initiatives, and it serves the information and technology needs of owners, breeders, media, fans and farms. It founded America’s Best Racing (americasbestracing.net), the broad-based fan development initiative for Thoroughbred racing, and in partnership with the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, operates OwnerView (ownerview.com), the ownership resource. Additional information is available at jockeyclub.com.

Stable View is a top-notch equestrian facility located in Aiken, South Carolina. Established in 2010, Stable View has now developed and diversified its equestrian program to meet the needs of both the discerning amateur and the elite professional across a variety of equestrian disciplines. For more information, visit www.svfequestrian.com/.

Equestrian Sport Confirmed in Initial Program For Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games

By on Feb 4, 2022 11:00 am -

Photo by FEI/Christophe Taniere.

The FEI President has welcomed the announcement by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) that Equestrian sport is officially confirmed in the Initial Sports Programme for Los Angeles 2028.

The confirmation for inclusion in the LA 2028 Initial Sports Programme took place yesterday during the IOC session in Beijing (CHN), and followed the announcement by the IOC in December 2021 that equestrian sport was amongst the 28 sports proposed.

“We are delighted with this confirmation, which is a glowing endorsement of the valuable contribution and legacy that equestrian sport brings to the Olympic movement” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said.

“However, this is only a first step. The Equestrian Disciplines for LA 2028 will be decided mid-2023 and the Equestrian Events and the Quota for LA will only be decided after Paris 2024”.

Universality, integrity and fairness, gender equality and popularity were highlighted as key requirements of the evaluation criteria to determine the Disciplines and Events for the programme, in line with the recommendations of Olympic Agenda 2020+5. Athlete safety, environmental sustainability and keeping the sport relevant to youth were also reiterated as significant factors in the decision making process.

“We are committed to deliver successful sport at the Olympics and are passionate about universality and growing our sport to reach new audiences and develop talent around the world” FEI President Ingmar De Vos continued.

“Youth participation and development play a key role in this process, and will ensure we have a diverse and inclusive equestrian community for young people to grow, progress and strive for Olympic greatness.

“The youth are the future and with equestrian sport in the LA2028 programme, a youth focused Games, it’s an added incentive for our ambitious young athletes to prepare to showcase their talent on the biggest world stage.

“Consolidation of our place in the LA 2028 Olympic programme will keep the equestrian community strong and resilient in this competitive sporting landscape.”

MARS Bromont Rising U25 Grant Program Returns for 2022 Competitions

By on Feb 2, 2022 9:00 am -

Quebec’s Melissa Boutin (CAN) and Threes are Wild at the Bromont CCI-S in 2021. Photo by Cealy Teatly.

The MARS Bromont Rising U25 scholarship program is pleased to announce that following two years of pandemic related cancellations of the program, grants will be available once again for riders aged 25 and under.

Bromont organizer Sue Ockendon has had a long-time dream of offering financial support “to recognize and support the youth in the sport; the future of Eventing in North America.”

Bromont Horse Trials located in Quebec, Canada, with its European charm has been a popular destination for North American competitors and provides a unique opportunity for athletes heading to their first international competition.

2019 was the first year the Mars Bromont Rising U25 scholarship program was offered and was the brainchild of organizer Sue Ockendon and the late Steve Blauner.

Steve had a vision of supporting young eventers from the US and Canada who were not yet under the radar of national U25 training programs. Riders competing at any level of FEI competition offered are eligible to apply.

MARS Bromont Rising U25 grants of up to $2,500 will be awarded to ten successful applicants to help assist with travel expenses and entry fees for the MARS Bromont CCI happening June 8-12, 2022. In addition, classroom presentations will be made by course designers, High Performance riders and a dressage test analysis by a 5* FEI judge. Optional coaching during the three-day event is also available.

The MARS Bromont Rising Program is delighted to announce that the same financial assistance will be given to 10 athletes traveling to Galway Downs International to be held November 2-6 in 2022. This is the first time the grant has been offered to a West coast competition and organizer, Robert Kellerhouse could not be more delighted, stating “we are honored to be the West Coast host for the MARS Bromont Rising U25 grants. This program will inspire it’s recipients to do more as it shines a light on those up-and-coming athletes and provides a lift in advancing their abilities in our sport”.

Grant application forms and hotel information can be found on the respective websites;

MARS Bromont CCI
June 8-12, 2022
CCI4*-L, CCI4*-S, CCI3*-L, CCI2*-L
https://bromontcci.com

Galway Downs International 3-day Event
November 2-6, 2022
CCI4*L, CCI3*L, CCI2*L
https://galwaydowns.net/

For more information contact Program Director Peter Gray [email protected].

Popular Painted Ponies Art Walk Returns to Southern Pines

By on Jan 30, 2022 10:00 am -

Photo courtesy of Carolina Horse Park.

Soon, the Painted Ponies will roam the streets of downtown Southern Pines! The third annual Painted Ponies Art Walk runs from January 29 through the end of March as 15 fiberglass Ponies line Broad Street for visitors to enjoy as they stroll through downtown. The ponies include 9 large horse sculptures along with 6 smaller colts. After the Art Walk is over, the ponies will be auctioned off on Saturday, April 9, with the proceeds benefitting the Carolina Horse Park Foundation.

“The Carolina Horse Park is proud to once again bring the Painted Ponies Art Walk to downtown Southern Pines. It demonstrates our commitment to our local businesses and artists while also highlighting our equestrian heritage and community,” said Bryan Rosenberg, chairman of the board for the Carolina Horse Park. “The Art Walk has been a phenomenal community effort. We look forward to visitors and residents enjoying the Painted Ponies while they line Broad Street and generously supporting the online auction on April 9.”

Local businesses coordinated to sponsor the Painted Ponies that will be placed at 15 locations in downtown Southern Pines. Artists from the region donated their time and talent to transform the ponies into exquisite works of art. Once the display ends, the Painted Ponies will be removed and auctioned off through an online auction on Saturday, April 9.

Photo courtesy of Carolina Horse Park.

The 2022 Painted Ponies Sponsors are:

  • Aberdeen Supply Company

     

  • Ashten’s Restaurant and Bar

     

  • Assertive Professionals

     

  • Audrey Wiggins

     

  • BHGRE Lifestyle Property Partners

     

  • Cabin Branch Tack Shop

     

  • Casino Guitars

     

  • DAHR

     

  • Dreher Financial Partners

     

  • Duncraig Manor & Gardens

     

  • English Riding Supply

     

  • FirstHealth of the Carolinas

     

  • Front Runner Realty Group

     

  • Glenda Kirby, The Amazing Grace Farm

     

  • Moore Exposure

     

  • NC State College of Veterinary Medicine

     

  • NorthState Insurance & Advisors

     

  • Opulence & DUXIANA of Southern Pines

     

  • Phreestyle Equestrian Artwork

     

  • Railhouse Brewery

     

  • Southern Pines Equine Associates

     

  • Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique

     

  • The Neon Rooster

     

  • Truist

     

  • Twin Gates Farm

     

  • Valkyrie Sporthorses

     

  • Windy Hill Creative

Visitors viewing the Painted Ponies Art Walk are invited to use the hashtag #PaintedPoniesCHP when taking pictures and posting them to social media.
The Carolina Horse Park (CHP) Foundation was established to support a 315-acre, nationally recognized premier equine competition venue and land preserve located in Hoke County, NC.

Founded in 1998 as a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization by equestrian enthusiasts, CHP is dedicated to the preservation of open space for equestrian events, as well as educational and recreational purposes.

For more information about the Painted Ponies Art Walk and Auction, visit www.CarolinaHorsePark.com.

US Equestrian Announces Athletes Selected to 2022 Eventing 25 Emerging Athlete Program

By on Jan 28, 2022 1:20 pm -

Alina Patterson and Flashback. Photo by Abby Powell.

US Equestrian is pleased to announce the athletes selected for the 2022 USEF Eventing Emerging Athlete Program. Eventers age 25 and under are eligible for the program, which identifies and supports athlete/horse combinations that have shown the potential to develop into future U.S. team candidates.

Participants in the Emerging Athlete Program have the opportunity to work with U.S. Eventing Development and Emerging Coach Leslie Law in honing their skills in competition as well as their knowledge of the pathway to high performance.

Athletes are selected for the Emerging Athlete Program based on their application, which includes their results at the CCI3*-L level. Applicants who have not yet achieved an MER at a CCI3*-L may be talent spotted into the program by the Performance Advisory Team. For this year’s program, applicants were evaluated at assessment sessions in January at Stable View in Aiken, S.C.; Caroline Martin Eventing in Ocala, Fla.; and at Twin Rivers Ranch in Paso Robles, Calif.

The following athletes are listed in alphabetical order.

Alex Baugh (Lexington, Ky.)
Isabelle Bosley (Cochranville, Pa.)
Sophie Click (Snoqualmie, Wash.)
Cornelia Dorr (Manchester-by-the-Sea, Mass.)
Mia Farley (San Juan Capistrano, Calif.)
Cosby Green (Lexington, Ky.)
Tommy Greengard (Malibu, Calif.)*
Savannah Gwin (San Clemente, Calif.)
Katie Lichten (South Hamilton, Mass.)
Alina Patterson (Chehalis, Wash.)
Meg Pellegrini (Wayne, Pa.)
Cassie Sanger (Lakeville, Conn.)*
Maddy Tempkin (Sebastapol, Calif.)
Haley Turner (Alamo, Calif.)*
*Denotes athlete was talented spotted for assessment sessions.

To learn more about the Eventing Pathway Program, please contact Christina Vaughn, Director of Eventing Performance and Program Support, at [email protected].

US Equestrian Launches New USEF Safe Sport PSA & MAAP Policies Campaign

By on Jan 26, 2022 3:00 pm -

We are glad that US Equestrian continues to step up its efforts to protect its minor athletes from abuse. The governing body issued the following update today:

“US Equestrian has launched an expansion of the USEF Safe Sport and Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policy (MAAPP) campaign with important video messages from US Equestrian President Tom O’Mara and USEF General Counsel, Sonja Keating. The new videos reinforce US Equestrian’s ongoing commitment to creating and maintaining a welcoming, safe, enjoyable, and supportive environment for all, especially children and their families. One of the videos is specifically dedicated to creating awareness of the newly amended MAAPP which took effect January 1, 2022. The video conveys the policies developed to limit one-on-one interactions between adults and minors, now apply both on and off competition grounds. These policies are required by federal law and have been implemented as additional measures to further our efforts to protect minors from abuse.

“The videos will be shared on US Equestrian social media platforms, appear within the USEF Safe Sport hub, run on USEF Network, and be provided to competition organizers via the Competition Resource Center on usef.org, offering access to share the videos with exhibitors and participants via their communication platforms.

“The campaign is a reminder that the equestrian community as a whole is part of the solution, and it is a shared responsibility of our community. With continued commitment, we will collectively make our sport the safest place possible for all to enjoy.”

You can view these and other videos here.  Some helpful educational links, at a glance:

To learn more about the updated Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention policies and how you can be a part of achieving safety for all participants, click here. 

$50K Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce’s Field to Offer VIP Chalets

By on Jan 20, 2022 1:00 pm -

Photo courtesy of Aiken Horse Park Foundation.

The Organizers of the 2022 $50,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Festival at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor, Harris Insurance Services (GPE), would like to extend a unique VIP opportunity to interested parties. The 2022 showcase will be held March 4 & 5 at Bruce’s Field, Aiken, SC.

Last year in an effort to social distance, in lieu of a large VIP tent, the event introduced private VIP chalets for the $5,000 sponsorship level and up. Due to the massive popularity of this format, they will continue using the VIP chalets for the 2022 event. These chalets seat six, and come with a prime viewing location for all the adrenaline pumping action! There will be menus of available catering options closer to the event. The Park encourages everyone to make the 10×10 space your own, and decorate the chalet to your taste!

Photo courtesy of Aiken Horse Park Foundation.

Please be aware that space is limited and there is a finite number of VIP Chalets that can be accommodated. VIP Chalets and General Admission Tickets are on sale now at: aikenhorsepark.org/eventing 

An Eventing “Showcase” is a unique version of Eventing competition that condenses the traditional country-side Eventing environment into a spectator friendly venue. The showcase format allows the general public the chance to be up close and personal, right next to the galloping lanes and massive fences, and experience the thrilling sport of Eventing in a whole new way. This equestrian triathlon presents a prime opportunity for top eventing riders to kick start their competition season, and to welcome the public to an exciting fast-paced equestrian event.

Learn more by visiting the website here.

Photo courtesy of Aiken Horse Park Foundation.

Dates and Location Announced for 2022 USEF Young Rider Eventing Championship

By on Jan 19, 2022 4:43 pm -

Crockett Miller and Mr. Panda on course at the inaugural Youth Team Challenge event at Stable View Horse Trials in March 2021. Photo by GRCPhoto.com.

US Equestrian has released the dates and location today for the 2022 USEF Young Rider Eventing Championship, which serves to replace the Adequan®/USEF Youth Team Challenge series that took place in 2021. The new-look championship will take place at the Tryon International Three-Day Event, November 10-13, in Mill Spring, N.C., and will award Championship titles at CCI1*-L, CCI2*-L, and CCI3*-L. Applications and area declaration forms can be found on the Athlete Dashboard and will be accepted now through May 1, 2022, at 12:00 p.m. (noon) ET.

The USEF Youth Team Challenge Task Force took feedback from Area Coordinators and participants in evaluating the YTC program and created the new championship in response to best serve the needs of the community. Host bids for the championship were accepted from November 20 through December 14, 2021, with the popular site of the 2018 World Equestrian Games ultimately winning out.

Click here for selection procedures and more information about the USEF Young Rider Eventing Championship or contact Christina Vaughn, Director of Eventing Performance & Program Support, at [email protected]. We’d also love to hear your thoughts on the new championship – does the change feel more exciting and cohesive to you as a competitor, or does the loss of regional championships make it more difficult for you to compete? Leave your thoughts in the comments!

Eventing Supporters Honored at USEF Pegasus Awards Dinner Celebration

By on Jan 14, 2022 9:00 am -

Howard Simpson and David O’Connor at the 2018 USEA Awards Banquet. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The 2022 Pegasus Awards Dinner Celebration was held last night at the USEF Annual Meeting in Naples, Fla., and we were pleased to see contributors to the sport of eventing honored.

Howard Simpson of Lake Forest, Ill. was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to major equestrian events in the U.S. He and his wife, the late Martha Smith Simpson, hosted the first American Continental Young Riders Championship at their Temple Farms in 1985. In 1988, the competition became the North American Young Rider Championships, now called the North American Youth Championships. He served as the director of the NAYC for more than 20 years.

Simpson was instrumental in the creation of the Kentucky Three-Day Event as the first CCI4* (now CCI5*) in the country, and later led the evaluation team that recommended the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill as the second CCI5* in North America.

Simpson has been active in governance of equestrian sport over the years. He was on the Board of Directors and several committees and councils for US Equestrian. He was on the Board of Governors, served as Vice President of Communications, and is currently a member of the Rebecca Broussard International Developing Rider Grant Selection Committee for the United States Eventing Association Foundation.

The late Tremaine Cooper, a prolific course designer, as well as Sue Hershey, who was instrumental in starting the USEA ICP program, were honored with a Richard E. McDevitt Award of Merit.

You can view a complete list of award winners here.

Ireland’s Youth Eventing High Performance Team Managers Confirmed Up to 2024

By on Jan 7, 2022 1:00 pm -

Horse Sport Ireland announced today the appointment of the three team managers for Ireland’s Youth Eventing High Performance Program up to Oct. 31, 2024.

Sue Shortt was re-appointed as U21 (Young Rider) and U25 team manager. Dag Albert was re-appointed as U18 (Junior) team manager, while Jane Kinsella was appointed as Pony (U16) team manager.

Denis Duggan, who took up his position as the new CEO of Horse Sport Ireland this week, said, “I am delighted to see the calibre of team managers that have come forward for the Eventing High Performance Youth Programs and I am looking forward to working with all of them during 2022 and beyond and hopefully securing more podium places at Championship level.”

 


Dag Albert and Sue Shortt. Photo via Horse Sport Ireland.

Sue Shortt has held the position of High Performance Team Manager for Ireland’s Under 21 (Young Rider) Eventing team since 2019. A native of Kildare, Sue has represented Ireland in eventing at Under 18, Under 21 and Senior levels including the Athens and Sydney Olympic Games and the WEG in Jerez, Spain. From 2005 to 2013, Sue was High Performance Team Manager for the Irish Pony team during which time the team and individual riders achieved numerous medal successes at European Championship level. In 2021, Sue was team manager of the GAIN Equine Nutrition Irish Young Rider (U21) Eventing team that won the silver medal at the FEI European Eventing Championships in Segersjö, Sweden.

Speaking after her reappointment, Sue said, “I am delighted to renew my contract with Horse Sport Ireland for a further three years. We have a large squad of riders again this year, including five combinations that were part of the silver medal winning team in 2021. I am really looking forward to working with all the riders and hopefully we can go one better in 2022!”

Swedish-born Dag Albert was first appointed to the position of High Performance Team Manager for Ireland’s Under 18 (Junior) Eventing team in 2019. Dag is one of Sweden’s most experienced eventing riders. He has successfully represented his country at Under 16, 18 and Under 21 level and is a BE Accredited Coach. Dag has competed numerous times at Badminton and Burghley and has represented his country at European and World Championships along with the Olympic Games at Atlanta in 1996 and Beijing in 2008. Dag managed the GAIN Equine Nutrition Irish Junior (U18) team to a sixth place finish at the 2021 European Championships in Segersjö, Sweden.

Dag commented, “I am delighted to have been re-appointed as Junior Eventing team manager. We have a very talented group of riders in the Junior High Performance squad including four riders who competed at last year’s European Championships so they bring a lot of experience with them. We also have some exciting riders moving up from ponies. The squad has already started training and we are looking forward to the season ahead.”

Jane Kinsella. Photo via Horse Sport Ireland.

A native of Kildare and now living in Meath, Jane Kinsella has a PhD in Parasitology, a QQI level 6 in training, delivery and evaluation. Jane is a HSI Level 2 coach and is currently completing the Coach Developer course with Sport Ireland. Jane has represented Ireland in Eventing at European Championship level and has over 20 years High Performance coaching experience. She coaches from grass roots to 5* level and has a proven track record of delivering success at the highest level in both Eventing and Show Jumping. Jane has coached athletes on every Pony Eventing European squad since 2013, securing many top 10 and medal winning performances.

Jane was awarded ‘HSI Development Coach of the year in 2017 and is looking forward to taking up the position of Irish Pony Eventing team manager. “I am delighted to accept the role of High Performance team manager for Ireland’s Pony Eventing team,” she said. “I would like to thank Horse Sport Ireland for this opportunity and I am looking forward to working with the incredibly talented riders and their associated support networks. The Irish Pony squads have been hugely successful over the last number of years and I aim, not only to maintain and improve upon the medal successes at European Championship level, but also to develop strength and depth in the Pony squad, producing well-educated, competitive riders of the future.“

Reminder: Learn Your 2022 USEF Eventing Dressage Tests

By on Jan 5, 2022 11:59 am -

This press release was first published on EN on September 17, 2021.

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS. Photo by Sally Spickard.

US Equestrian has announced the publication of the new 2022 USEF Eventing Dressage Tests for Beginner Novice through Advanced, effective December 1, 2021, through November 30, 2025.

The tests are published on the USEA website and can be found here. The digital PDF versions of the judge’s copies of the tests will be available for purchase on the ShopUSEA website.

2022 USEF Dressage Tests

(Effective beginning December 1, 2021)

Beginner Novice: Test A | Test B

Novice: Test A | Test B | Novice Three-Day

Training: Test A | Test B | Training Three-Day

Modified: Test A | Test B | Test C | Modified Three-Day

Preliminary: Test A | Test B | Test C | Preliminary Three-Day

Intermediate: Test A | Test B | Test C

Advanced: Test A | Test B

The 2022 USEF Intermediate Test C, which is written for use in a 20×40 arena, may only be used for Eventing competitions that demonstrate a topographical or logistical hardship which renders the venue unable to assemble a 20×60 arena in the designated competition area. The process to request permission to use this test can be found here.

Best of 2021 Video Countdown: #3 – ‘She Knew What She Was Doing’

By on Dec 29, 2021 12:00 pm -

Each day between now and the New Year we’re counting down the top 20 most popular videos shared on EN in 2021. The #3 spot goes to this video, which garnered 5,065 views when it was originally posted on August 5, 2021.

*Trigger warning* This video contains discussions of sexual abuse and misconduct.

Young athletes, particularly those in elite sports, are more frequently sexually abused by coaches when they are competing at a higher level. There are several reasons for this. None of which are “she knew what she was doing.” The second PSA of the #WeRideTogether campaign has launched features Maggie Kehring, a survivor of abuse bt world champion show jumper Rich Fellers who has since been banned from the sport.

#WeRideTogether gives a voice to survivor stories, provides resources to report abuse and get help, and offers educational information for athletes, coaches, and families. Sexual misconduct and abuse have long been an issue in equestrian sport, and is often ignored, minimized, or wrongly blamed on the victim. The equestrian community is no longer sitting idly by.

The microsite will be updated on an ongoing basis to provide a safe place for survivors to share their experiences. It is intended a true movement and cultural shift that demands increased accountability from trainers and coaches, gives survivors a safe platform for their voice, and helps diminish the stigma and fear of coming forward.

Visit WeRideTogether.Today to learn more.

Will Coleman & Chin Tonic Receive the USET Foundation’s Connaught Grant in Memory of Bruce Duchossois

By on Dec 14, 2021 2:00 pm -

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation has named Olympic eventer Will Coleman of Gordonsville, Virginia, and his mount, Chin Tonic, a nine-year-old Holsteiner gelding owned by Hyperion Stud, LLC, the recipients of the 2022 Connaught Grant.

Each year, the USET Foundation administers up to $25,000 to a CCI1* or CCI2* horse in the U.S. that is seen as a potential candidate to represent the U.S. Eventing team on an international level. The grant was established by Caroline Moran in memory of her dear friend, the late R. Bruce Duchossois, who was passionate about and dedicated to encouraging the development of eventing horses in the United States, and is named after the famous eventing horse Connaught, who was owned by Duchossois and ridden by Phillip Dutton.

As the recipient of the Connaught Grant, Coleman, who is an athlete on US Equestrian’s Eventing High Performance 2021 Pre-Elite Training List with other top mounts, will be able to use the funds to support further competition and training with Chin Tonic with the aim of riding for the United States on the international stage.

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS. Photo by Sally Spickard.

“Obviously winning the Connaught Grant is a tremendous honor, primarily because of who it represents and the horse it represents,” said Coleman who represented the U.S. at the 2012 London Olympic Games and the 2018 World Equestrian Games in Tryon, North Carolina. “Bruce Duchossois was such a generous person and an incredibly supportive horse owner for Phillip Dutton for so many years. He was the backbone for Phillip as well as for horse shows and equestrian endeavors around the country. He supported the community in such a humble way, and I always had a tremendous amount of respect for him. I genuinely enjoyed the times I got to be around him, so I’m very honored for this horse to be recognized.

“Chin Tonic is owned by Hyperion Stud and Vicky Castegren,” continued Coleman. “Vicky has been an incredible supporter of mine for many years. Chin Tonic was a horse she bought as a two-year-old stallion. He’s an incredible athlete, and he is a testament to patience. We’ve been taking our time with him and allowing him to develop physically and mentally. I’m really pleased with the horse he’s become. There’s still another level to be attained so we still have work to do, and the Connaught Grant will be hugely helpful in that regard.”

For Coleman, grants have allowed him to gain international experience over the years, and he’s grateful for the support from Caroline Moran and the USET Foundation that is offered to up-and-coming eventing talent. “The grants are a huge benefit to horses and riders,” he explained. “If you’re lucky enough to get one, they’re a bonus and something that emboldens you to do the country and do the U.S. team proud. My team and I are all very, very appreciative of the grants.

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS. By Shannon Brinkman Photography.

“Caroline is already a horse owner for other riders, so for her to so generously donate funds to someone who she may not support as an owner speaks to how the country as a whole wants to see the American eventing program succeed,” stated Coleman. “Her generosity contributes to a greater sense of camaraderie and shows that we’re all on the same team. I think that speaks volumes.”

Coleman, who made history as the first American to win CCIO4*-S at CHIO Aachen in September 2021 with Off The Record, a 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by the Off The Record Syndicate, has no plans to rest on his laurels with any of his horses. “I’m very humbled by the win at CHIO Aachen, and I’m anxious to keep working and keep getting better,” he shared. “I love producing horses. I’d love to get some other ones, maybe a horse like Chin Tonic, that can go back there and do as well as Off The Record.”

Thanks to the Connaught Grant, Coleman and Chin Tonic can continue their training with the goal of representing the United States in future international competitions.

Equestrian Sport Named in Olympic Program for Los Angeles 2028

By on Dec 10, 2021 3:00 pm -

Photo by FEI/Christophe Taniere.

The FEI President has welcomed the announcement by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) that equestrian sport will be proposed for inclusion in the Olympic programme for the Los Angeles 2028 Games.

During the IOC Executive Board meeting yesterday, the initial list of twenty-eight sports to be recommended the LA28 Initial Sports Programme, which includes equestrian, was agreed and is now subject to final approval at the IOC Session in February 2022. Discussions also focussed on defining the process for finalising the disciplines in each sport offering early certainty to athletes, National Olympic Committees (NOCs), International Federations (IFs) and the Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (OCOG).

Universality, integrity and fairness, gender equality and popularity were highlighted as key requirements of the evaluation criteria which will be used to determine the disciplines and events for the programme, in line with the recommendations of Olympic Agenda 2020+5. Athlete safety, environmental sustainability and keeping the sport relevant to youth were also reiterated as significant factors in the decision making process.

“I am confident equestrian sport, a celebration of the unique bond between human and equine athletes, has its place in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games programme,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said.

“The recent endorsement from the IOC following the success of the Tokyo 2020 Games reflected on the positive changes the FEI made, highlighting our willingness to adapt and modernise our sport.

“We had more flags. Universality was one of the key requirements in Agenda 2020 alongside making the sport easier to understand and more exciting for a broader audience – criteria which remain fundamental going forward”

The IOC also published figures this week which revealed the Tokyo 2020 Games reached a global broadcast audience of more than three billion people across linear TV and digital platforms. This significant and rapid growth in the change of the digital landscape, meant more fans were able to experience the Games, with greater accessibility to more content than ever before.

“The collective future of equestrian sport depends on our position in the Olympic movement,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos continued.

“We need to guarantee global visibility of our sport in the media and digital platforms, and continue to showcase relevant content and entice new fans. We have this opportunity every four years and consolidating equestrian sport in the Olympic Movement is crucial for the FEI and for our community.”

“Another key focus for the FEI is Youth development. Keeping the youth engaged in equestrian sport and inspiring new generations to make the Olympic Games their goal. We have robust development programmes around the world targeting the next generation of athletes, but also fans and industry professionals, because equestrian sport is a way of life that is multifaceted and extremely diverse. How we engage with younger generations is vital in our pathway to the future”.

In 2017 when the IOC allocated the 2028 Olympic Games to Los Angeles during the IOC Session in Lima (PER), the FEI President welcomed this great opportunity that this candidate city could deliver the Games in a cost-effective way. The United States have a long and successful equestrian tradition, and has developed as a country with sustained equestrian excellence on an international stage. The equestrian venue in Los Angeles will have the stunning sports backdrop of the Santa Monica Mountains and will offer a fantastic opportunity to showcase our sport.

The approval of the Initial Sports Programme will take place in February 2022 and the finalisation of the events and athlete quota will be confirmed in December 2024, following the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

 

Review This: New USEF Rule Changes for Amateurs + More

By on Dec 5, 2021 10:00 am -

The USEF Board of Directors met on November 22, 2021 and approved the following Extraordinary Rule Changes that went into effect on December 1, 2021.

Amateur Rule Changes Put Forward by the USEF Amateur Task Force

  • GR1306.1
    Allows amateurs to accept remuneration for performing specified barn duties, including lunging, without affecting their amateur status.
  • GR1306.1
    Increases the value of a non-monetary token or gift of appreciation an amateur can receive from less than $300 to less than $1,000 annually.
  • GR1306.2
    Allows amateurs to receive renumeration as a Social Media Influencer or Social Media Brand Ambassador. The rule change also designates individuals who accept remuneration for the use of commercially logoed items while on competition grounds as Sponsored Riders, and therefore professionals. The rule change added definitions for Social Media Influencer, Social Media Brand Ambassador, and Sponsored Riders to differentiate between activities allowed and disallowed by amateur participants.
  • GR1306.2
    Allows amateurs in the American Saddlebred, Saddle Seat Equitation, Morgan, Arabian, Andalusian/Lusitano, National Show Horse, Paso Fino, and Western Divisions to accept remuneration for teaching beginner riding lessons in a non-competition environment for fewer than 20 hours a week under the following conditions:

    1. The amateur must register with USEF prior to performing any instruction.
    2. Total lesson time cannot exceed 20 hours per calendar week.
    3. Lessons must be given under the oversight of a USEF Competing Member in good standing who is designated as a Professional.
    4. Lessons cannot be conducted at a competition, including Federation Licensed Competitions and non-licensed competitions.
    5. Student must be a beginner who has not competed and is not competing at any level of competition, and lessons must not exceed the basic beginner level.
    6. Teacher must maintain a log of all lessons. Log must include lesson date, lesson time and name of student.
    7. A USEF Competing Member designated as a Professional must review the teacher’s log and verify its accuracy.
    8. The teacher and professional are responsible and accountable for compliance with this rule.
    9. USEF may request proof of compliance and refusal to provide such proof constitutes a violation of the rule.
      Information on the registration process for amateurs who plan to teach beginner lessons will be available soon.
  • GR1306.6
    Includes a one-time exception for individuals aged 18 to 25 who engage in professional activities to reapply for amateur status after a utilizing a three-month waiting period.

The complete updated Amateur Rule is available here. 

If you now qualify as an amateur under these new rules and wish to be reclassified as an Amateur, please submit a letter to the Regulation Department outlining the horse related activities which previously led you to select/hold professional status and explain, as accurately as possible why you believe you are now eligible for Amateur status. You must also verify that you are otherwise eligible for amateur status. The letter must be signed and notarized. The letter can be sent to [email protected]. The Regulation Department will review the letter and update your status accordingly. Any concerns surrounding the request will be forwarded to the Hearing Committee Co-Chairs for review. The Regulation Department may request additional information from you, as necessary. No fee will be required from individuals who are benefiting from the changes to the rule.

Safety and Welfare Rule Changes

  • GR849
    Any human injury occurring at a licensed competition of which competition management is made aware must also be reported to the Federation on the applicable Accident/Injury form, including injuries to non-competitors such as grooms, spectators, owners, etc.
  • GR702.1
    Violations of the 2021 updated USEF Code of Conduct are now included in the list of violations against which penalties may be imposed.
  • DR 133.5
    Remove “riding without stirrups” from the list of additional movements and exercises that may be requested in Dressage Seat Equitation classes. This is a safety issue, as it impacts young children, some new to dressage, and those who compete on borrowed horses.
  • AR221.15
    Adding lameness to the list of penalties in Arabian Ranch Horse Riding and Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure classes, thereby providing judges the ability to disqualify an entry if warranted.
  • EV153.4
    For safety reasons an Eventing competitor who receives a Compulsory Retirement Penalty at Training level or above, will not be given permission to ride the cross-country course.
  • EV108
    In Eventing, placement poles are now prohibited for jumps at National Horse Trials.

In addition, several Competition Task Force proposed rule changes specific to the Hunter/Jumper competition environment were approved that will take effect December 1, 2022 for the 2023 competition year. These rule changes were necessary to support the 2023 Hunter/Jumper competition restructure approved by the USEF Board earlier this year. USEF and USHJA have been working collaboratively to initiate these rule changes in order to address the needs and priorities identified through member and competitor feedback that include:

  • Safety, fairness and enjoyment
  • Accessibility based on location, cost and offerings
  • Opportunities to attend well-organized, appropriate quality competitions at all levels that comply with standards
  • Meaningful recognition for horses and athletes at all levels
  • Simplification of the sport

The Competition Task Force will be hosting a member webinar in the coming weeks and providing additional resources to assist competition organizers and members in better understanding the updated competition structure.

_____________

A comprehensive list of the rule changes approved by the Board of Directors at the November 22, 2021 Meeting can be seen here.

USEF Crowns 2021 Youth Team Challenge Champions Ahead of Major Change to Series

By on Dec 1, 2021 12:00 pm -

Chloe Johnson and Chilli Bean. Photo by Leslie Potter/US Equestrian.

With last month’s West Coast Final in Temecula, California well in the rearview, US Equestrian has crowned its 2021 overall champions in the Adequan/USEF Eventing Youth Team Challenge series, which aims to provide the country’s stars of the future with valuable opportunities to gain team mileage and ride under pressure. This year, we’ve seen eight legs throughout the season at events around the country, which have hosted classes at CCI1*, CCI2*, and CCI3*.

This year’s overall CCI1* Champion is Chloe Johnson, who lives in Dallas, Texas, and represents Area V with her spring-heeled New Zealand Sport Horse mare Chilli Bean (Chilli Morning x Curtain Call). While en route to total domination as an individual, she also played a valuable part in her team, which was made up of riders from several areas and ultimately took second place.

“It was a wonderful experience to be on a team with such supportive people,” Chloe says. “While Area V didn’t have our own team in the 1*, everyone else from Area V encouraged each other and helped each other out in the barn. Our combined area 1* team allowed me to meet new, incredibly nice people from areas other than Area V that I may not have had the chance to meet otherwise.”

Rebecca Roth and Chapter Two. Photo by Leslie Potter/US Equestrian.

The overall CCI2* title goes to Rebecca Roth of Malone, Wisconsin, who piloted the Thoroughbred gelding Chapter Two (More Than Ready x Winds of March) to the top spot, helping her area IV team to second place in the process. This adds another title to the pair’s collection — they were the Area IV Preliminary Champions in 2020.

Audrey Sanborn and OBOS Quality Time. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Finally, Area VI rider Audrey Sanborn proved the increasing strength in depth of the West Coast scene, taking the overall CCI3* top honours with her Irish Sport Horse gelding OBOS Quality Time (OBOS Quality 004 x Diamond DI). Though the San Luis Obispo-based rider’s team didn’t finish on the podium this year, they’ve got plenty to be excited about for the seasons to come.

Area II riders swept the boards in the team rankings, taking the win at all three levels.

This will be the last time we see the Youth Team Challenge program in this format, however: following extensive feedback from Area Coordinators and athletes, the USEF Youth Team Challenge Task Force opted to propose a singular championship, which would combat issues of low participation at some legs. The proposal was approved by the Eventing Sport Committee, the International Disciplines Committee, and the USEF Board of Directors, and bidding opened yesterday for prospective hosts of the new championship, which will host the CCI1*-L, CCI2*-L, and CCI3*-L championship in the latter part of the season. We’ll be sharing more information on the bids soon, but in the meantime, inquiries can be directed to Christina Vaugh, Director of Eventing and Program Support, at [email protected].

2021 Adequan/USEF Eventing Youth Team Challenge series results

CCI1* Overall Individual Standings:

  1. Chloe Johnson
  2. Ella Braundel
  3. Claudia Oppedisano
  4. Grace Mykityshyn
  5. Juliana Cassar
  6. Camryn Chung
  7. Matthew Heinzle
  8. Crockett Miller

CCI1* Overall Team Standings

  1. Area II
  2. Area III, Area V, Area VII (tie) 

CCI2* Overall Individual Standings:

  1. Rebecca Roth
  2. Jackson Dillard
  3. Jack Curtis
  4. Lea Adamas- Blackmore
  5. Kiera Kenny
  6. Pip Hayes
  7. Claire Strehlow
  8. Eliana Thompson

CCI2* Overall Team Standings

  1. Area II
  2. Area IV
  3. Area VI

CCI3* Overall Individual Standings:

  1. Audrey Sanborn
  2. Madison Temkin
  3. Alexandra Baugh
  4. Meg Pellegrini
  5. Sydney Solomon
  6. Sarah bowman
  7. Isabel Bosley
    Ben Noonan (tie)

CCI3* Overall Team Standings:

  1. Area II
  2. Area V
  3. Area III

Tryon International Equestrian Center Awarded 2022 Week 19 CCI4*-L on East Coast

By on Nov 30, 2021 2:00 pm -

Tamie Smith and EnVogue. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Following the cancellation of the Jersey Fresh International Three-Day Event for 2022, US Equestrian opened a one-week bid process to fill the date on the 2022 U.S. Eventing Calendar for one year only. Per the 2022 U.S. FEI Eventing Calendar Policies and Procedures, applications to host the CCI4*-L level during the 2022 competition season are accepted by invitation only.

The bid process opened October 21, and closed October 29 for one competition on the East Coast to run the CCI4*-L level on Week 19 of the U.S. Eventing Calendar, May 11-15, 2022. Once the bid period ended, organizer feedback was sought from organizers hosting FEI competitions two weeks prior to and two weeks after the proposed competition.

The bid was ultimately awarded to the Tryon International Equestrian Center (“TIEC”). TIEC will host the CCI4*-L during the Tryon International May 3-Day Event on May 16-19, 2022. TIEC was also awarded the following levels: CCI1*, CCI3*-S, CCI3*-L, CCI4*-S. The bid application was recommended for approval by the USEF Calendar Working Group, Eventing Sport Committee, and International Disciplines Council before receiving Board of Directors approval on Monday, November 22.

All FEI competitions are subject to FEI approval. See the FEI Calendar here.

Please note that a new calendar process will go into effect for 2023-2027. For more information, visit the USEF Eventing Calendar Process webpage. Inquiries can be directed to [email protected].