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Equestrian Australia Sweetens the Pot for Australian Riders Aiming for Aus3DE CCI5*

By US Equestrian Press Release on May 13, 2021 9:00 am -

Stuart Tinney and Leporis on their way to a second place finish in the 2019 Aus3DE CCI5*. Photo courtesy of Kirsty Pasto.

Australian riders hoping to contest the CCI5* at the Australian International 3 Day Event in November will have an added incentive this year owing to an increased funding commitment by the Equestrian Australia (EA) High Performance Program.

In addition to EA High Performance’s current financial support of the Australian International 3 Day Event the Program will now also fund the cost of entry and stable fees and for all Australian combinations participating in the CCI5* class, as well as provide a $500 AUD grant per CCI5* Australian rider to reduce travel expenses to Adelaide.

With the widespread economic consequences of the global pandemic many athletes, owners and organising committees have felt the impact of Covid-19, forcing some to reconsider large-scale campaigns.

“The EA High Performance Program is dedicated to supporting our elite athletes on their journey to represent Australia on the world stage, which includes providing them with opportunities to compete at the highest level of our sport,” explains EA High Performance Director, Chris Webb.

As the only CCI5* event in the Southern Hemisphere, and one of only seven held worldwide [editor’s note: for 2021, Badminton and Burghley have been canceled, leaving Kentucky, Luhmühlen, Pau and Maryland as the only five-stars in addition to Australia], the event provides a unique opportunity for Australian riders to gain international exposure at a premier event within Australia.

This year’s competition will also boast the largest prize pool in the Southern Hemisphere, with over $150,000 on offer in 2021.
The event, which will be held in the heart of Adelaide’s city centre, will not only showcase Australia’s equestrian talent across the disciplines of Eventing and Jumping, it will also serve as a qualification event for the World Equestrian Games 2022.

“The Australian International 3 Day Event has worked closely with the Equestrian Australia High Performance Program over the years to ensure that Australian based riders can experience the atmosphere of an international event on home soil. This commitment from EA High Performance ensures that we can deliver another world class three-day event in 2021, and that riders can plan well ahead to ride at Adelaide,” said Australian International 3 Day Event Director, Belinda Lindh.

Further information about the event can be found at https://australian3de.com.au. The event will take place November 18-21, 2021.

Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill Announces $300,000 Prize Money for Inaugural Event

By US Equestrian Press Release on May 12, 2021 10:15 am -

The Fair Hill Organizing Committee (FHOC), an affiliate of the Sport and Entertainment Corporation of Maryland (The Sport Corp.), today announced athletes and horses in the inaugural Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill (CCI5*-L) will be competing for $300,000 in prize money. Additionally, the US Equestrian Federation (USEF) Eventing National Championship (CCI3*-L), running in conjunction with the 5 Star, will award $25,000 in prize money. Both events, as well as the United States Eventing Association (USEA) Young Event Horse East Coast Championships, will take place this October 14-17 at the new Fair Hill Special Event Zone in Cecil County, Maryland.

Planning and developments for the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill continue to move forward. On May 3, licensees of USEF competitions held in May were permitted to welcome a limited number of spectators back to their competitions with pending news forthcoming regarding competitions held after June 1.

USEF’s COVID-19 Action Plan, including requirements and recommendations for operating USEF-licensed competitions during the pandemic, are being adjusted regularly. As a result, FHOC anticipates releasing various announcements in the coming weeks with information related to retail vendor applications, ticket offerings, sponsorships, volunteer opportunities, livestream and broadcast partners, media credentialing, and more. Event organizers will continue to monitor and administer all current health and safety protocols as necessary for the protection of all those in attendance.

FHOC Co-Chairs, Mike Gill and Michael Hankin said, “While we remain focused on monitoring health and safety protocols for our event, we are excited to see that the conditions continue to improve here in Maryland, and that events are beginning to open up. We are looking forward to producing an inaugural Maryland 5 Star that will provide a top-class experience for our competitors, as well as our spectators.”

The event will mark a new chapter for the State of Maryland’s rich horse and equestrian tradition. The Maryland 5 Star is one of only two CCI5*-L events in the United States, and seventh worldwide. It will showcase four days of thrilling competition at the sport of Eventing’s highest-level across its three discipline’s, Dressage, Cross-Country and Show Jumping.

“It is great feeling having sporting events coming back in Maryland this year and welcoming spectators,” commented Terry Hasseltine, President of The Sport Corp. “The Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill will be one of the highlights during the fall giving people something to look forward to, and something new to experience. We are excited to showcase the new Fair Hill Special Event Zone for the first time and produce an event that our state can be proud of.”

For additional information and news from the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill, visit Maryland5Star.us or follow on social @maryland5star

About the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill:

One of only two 5 Star events in the United States, and seventh worldwide, the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill will continue the storied legacy of Eventing at the new Fair Hill Special Event Zone in Elkton, Maryland, located in Cecil County. The prestigious 5 Star (CCI5*-L) designation is the pinnacle of the sport of Eventing also known as the equestrian triathlon. The Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill is produced by The Fair Hill Organizing Committee (FHOC), an affiliate of the Sport and Entertainment Corporation of Maryland (The Sport Corp.), and in partnership with Fair Hill International (FHI). The Maryland Food Bank serves as an event beneficiary.

About the Sport and Entertainment Corporation of Maryland (The Sport Corp.):

The Sport and Entertainment Corporation of Maryland is a 501(c)(3) established in 2019 to further, promote, and move the State of Maryland forward through sports.

Discover Cecil County Maryland!:

Centrally located between Philadelphia and Baltimore on I-95, Cecil County, Maryland boasts vibrant small towns, 200 miles of waterfront, foodie destinations, and scenic countryside providing the perfect backdrop for the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill. Experience fabulous local food with a Chesapeake Bay flair, local beer and wine, outdoor recreation, family friendly attractions, and specialty shops, plus discover 80 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Destination Cecil County…Just a Daydream Away!

Tim Price Announces Retirement of Wesko at Age of 18

By US Equestrian Press Release on May 10, 2021 2:26 pm -

Tim Price and Wesko. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Windrush Equestrian Foundation, and Tim Price, are sad to announce the retirement of their beloved Wesko, from top level competition. The 18-year-old CCI5* Champion was being prepared for the delayed Tokyo Olympics but has sadly sustained a minor injury during his meticulous early season preparations.

Tim Price paid tribute to his “best mate”:

“It was going to be a bit of a push for an 18-year-old to make the final four at the Olympics later this year and sadly is just wasn’t mean to be. We have had so much fun together, so I have a lot to be thankful for. Above all he’s my mate and that isn’t about to change.”

“Dash” will remain with Tim Price for his retirement and be allowed to embrace his ‘inner pony’: “Dash will finally be allowed to let his inner pony out, getting fluffy, fat and happy, and winning people over with his friendly charm.”

It is with great sadness that the day has come for me to announce Wesko's retirement from top level competition. It was…

Posted by Team Price on Monday, May 10, 2021

Wesko has had a glittering career partnered with Tim, amassing 1356 British Eventing points and six international wins, including the CCI5* at Luhmuhlen 2014. Looking back across the past decade to his first British Eventing season in 2011 where he recorded his first international win at Brand Hall and failed to finish outside of the top three across the season. From there on there were wins at Blair Castle CCI4*L (2013), Tattersalls CCI4*L (2014), Arville ERM CCI4*S (2019) and Lignieres CCI3*L (2019), in addition to two CCI5* third place finishes at Les Etoiles de Pau (2015 & 2020).

“After his injury in 2016, Wesko’s return to eventing began not long after his owner, Christina Knudsen passed away suddenly and all too soon. He has since proudly competed under the ownership of the Windrush Equestrian Foundation – formed in Christina’s memory to help nurture young equestrian talent. I am proud to be an ambassador for this great cause and am excited to see the Foundation’s positive impact on young athletes.”

Windrush Equestrian Foundation CEO, Mariachiara Apruzzese said:

“We are truly grateful to Tim for his continued love and partnership with Wesko. Together they have helped fulfil some of Christina’s dreams and ambitions. As much as we’re all sad that Wesko hasn’t been able to make the Olympics his final triumph we’re all so happy that he is finishing his wonderful career fit, happy and healthy and will continue to live out his retirement with his best friend – Tim. We’re also extremely grateful to have Tim continue as an ambassador for the Windrush Foundation.”

The Windrush Equestrian Foundation is a non-profit organisation founded in memory of Christina Knudsen and her passion for the sport of Eventing. The aim of the foundation is to bring 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 program.

The Foundation’s riders receive mentoring and in-depth training from one of the world’s most decorated eventing riders, Pippa Funnell, along with former Team GBR World Class Performance Manager, Yogi Breisner. The programme also includes a 360-degree education programme in partnership with A Young Riders Academy.

Please enjoy a few of our favorite Wesko shots through the years:

: Tim Price and Wesko. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

: Tim Price and Wesko. Photo courtesy of Event Rider Masters.

: Tim Price and Wesko. Photo courtesy of Nico Morgan Photography.

: Tim Price and Wesko

: Tim Price and Wesko. Photo by Jenni Autry.

: Tim Price and Wesko. Photo by Rare Air Photography.

: Tim Price and Wesko. Photo by Jenni Autry.

: Tim Price and Wesko. Photo by Jenni Autry.

New Covid-19 Protocols from USEF: Fully Vaccinated Individuals May Forego Masks at Outdoor Competitions

By US Equestrian Press Release on May 10, 2021 1:44 pm -

US Equestrian has issued the following directive updating its Covid-19 protocols for competitions.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Quicksilver. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Dear USEF Members,

Beginning May 17, 2021, USEF will implement new protocols regarding the use of face coverings/masks at USEF-licensed competitions in response to recently updated CDC recommendations. Please click here to access the full amendments to the USEF COVID-19 Action Plan protocols.

This change means that unless more restrictive requirements are imposed by state or local governments or by competition organizers, any individual who is fully vaccinated is no longer required to wear a face covering/mask at USEF competitions when outdoors and at least six feet from any other individuals, except individuals in the same immediate household. However, if you enter an area that is fully or partially indoors, you must wear your face covering/mask and stay socially distanced. Since there is a likelihood that you will enter an indoor area while at a competition, stay prepared and keep a face covering/mask with you at all times. We will continue to support organizers who feel it is in the best interest of their event to impose stronger requirements.

While we are all looking forward to the continued easing of restrictions on COVID-related protocols, we must also realize that the effects of the pandemic are not over and as cases increase and decrease, state and local modifications may occur. Overall, our community has done a great job of not only being one of the first organized sports to reopen, but has also successfully kept our sport open by complying with the USEF COVID-19 Action Plan. As we continue to ease restrictions, we must do so in a responsible and moderated manner. Personal responsibility continues to be a critical component of easing restrictions and ensuring we can continue to enjoy equestrian sport.

Thank you again for your compliance with the Action Plan requirements.

Requirements Announced to Allow U.S.-based Athletes & Team Members to Attend Bromont

By US Equestrian Press Release on May 7, 2021 9:00 am -

Jessica Phoenix and Wabbit at Bromont.
Photo by Cealy Tetley.

The organizing committee of the MARS Bromont CCI has announced the first set of requirements which will allow United States based athletes and their support team members to enter Canada for the duration of competition scheduled for June 2-6, 2021. This is exciting news for the many riders who have flocked to this popular top destination for some of the best eventing has to offer in North America year after year.

Plans for travelers from the United States will include several required elements. Those that attend will be required to present proof of completed vaccinations for all people traveling to the event, and a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of arriving at the border. Additional requirements will be announced as released by the local and federal government. Competitors and support staff must book lodging accommodations directly with Domaine Château Bromont. The hotel has already confirmed plans with the organizers to provide both local restaurant and grocery store deliveries directly to your accommodations. A special rate for all competitors at the hotel will be available.

It is important to note that all entries to the MARS Bromont CCI will be 100% refundable.

For those riders who have yet to experience competition at Bromont, you’re in for a treat. Derek Di Grazia of Carmel Valley, California, FEI cross-country course designer at Bromont since 2009 and the course designer for the Tokyo Olympic Games, will set a challenging track with the help of Canadian course builder Jay Hambly and his team, utilizing the spectacular hills and natural water features Bromont has to offer.

The MARS Bromont CCI is made possible in part through a contribution from Sport Canada. The Bromont organizing committee also wishes to thank the Government of Quebec, and the City of Bromont for their support.

Mark your calendar for these other 2021 Bromont Dates: June 12, 2021 – Little Bromont Horse Trials, Aug. 13- 15, 2021 – FEI Eventing Nations Cup Bromont, and Sept. 17- 19, 2021 – Bromont Autumn CCI-S Three Day Event

About Bromont CCI
Bromont has featured top competition for three decades, will be welcoming some of the best horse-and-rider combinations from all over North America in CCI4-L, CCI4-S, CCI3-L, CCI2-L, CCIU252* – L, CCIU253* -L divisions.

About MARS Equestrian™
MARS Equestrian™ Sponsorship by Mars, Incorporated is the link between our iconic brands and the equestrian community. For generations, Mars has celebrated a rich equestrian heritage, and through purposeful partnerships, MARS Equestrian™ is committed to the sport and building an enduring legacy. From world-class competitions across all equestrian disciplines, to stewarding the power of horses on society and sustainability, MARS Equestrian™ is dedicated to our purpose to improve the lives of horses, pets, and the people who love them. For more information please visit our website at www.marsequestrian.com and social media @marsequestrian. MARS Equestrian is proud to support the Bromont CCI Three Day Event.

Information regarding further details including the COVID-19 plan will be posted on our website at https://bromontcci.com and linked to our social media. Contact the event at [email protected].

Jessica Phoenix Becomes First Canadian Eventer to Smash the 100th CCI4*-S Mark

By US Equestrian Press Release on May 4, 2021 9:00 am -

Jessica Phoenix and Wabbit. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Jessica Phoenix has become the only Canadian eventer to start in over 100 CCI 4* S events, making her one of 17 eventers in the world to achieve this benchmark. She did so with her beloved Pavarotti this past weekend at the inaugural CCI4*-S at Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event. It was a special moment for Jessica, and so fitting to have shared it with Pavarotti, with whom she has won five medals over three consecutive Pan Am Games, including individual Gold and Team Silver in Guadalajara, Mexico (2011); Individual Silver and Team Bronze in Toronto (2015); and Team Bronze in Lima, Peru (2019).

Jessica said of the achievement, “It was a total surprise to learn of this milestone! It’s a huge honor to be recognized among the top riders in the sport who have achieved this record — of course, it wouldn’t be possible without the incredible horses I’m able to ride and the owners that support me.”

Jessica finished 8th with Bogue Sound, Pavarotti, as well as Bogue Sound and Wabbit – her two other mounts – both off-the-track Thoroughbred accruing only time faults on the wet terrain.

Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti. Photo by Shelby Allen.

“Wabbit was my most inexperienced horse there and after walking the cross-country course we knew it was going to be a very tough challenge,” says Jessica. “It asked every question it could possibly ask. To have Wabbit go out as trailblazer in terrible weather and make the course look like a gymnastics exercise was thrilling. Bogue Sound is born to do cross country. He was phenomenal all the way around and he’s a Kentucky Thoroughbred, so he has always loved competing at the Kentucky Horse Park. As the weather grew worse and the footing deteriorated, I was thankful that Pavarotti was my last ride of the day because it felt like a 5* through and through. He is so reliable and an absolute professional on the course.”

With the ongoing pandemic, Jessica chose to stay in Canada for the winter season and trained indoors at her family farm near Cannington, ON, in her new ReitenRight Arena. This meant that she was not able to compete at the weekly horse trails in the south as other riders do during the harsh Canadian winters. Phoenix’s three Top 11 finishes make this year’s event even more remarkable: She placed 8th on Bogue Sound, 10th on Wabbit and 11th on Pavarotti.

Jessica Phoenix and Bogue Sound. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Said Jessica of her horses’ overall performance: “To prepare the horses at home in Canada instead of my usual training in Florida, and to have Kentucky as my first event of the season was a huge ask. To have all three of them finish in the top 11 was amazing. It was what I hoped for and confirmed that my training in Canada was ample. It’s a relief to discover that you can prepare for an event of that stature at home during a pandemic and know that you can hold your own on the world stage. As one of the last runs leading up to the Tokyo Olympics, I’m happy with where my horses are at in their training and they are being set up to peak for Tokyo.”

So how did she do it? Without question, it’s thanks to her amazing team at home, including partners, owners and sponsors who allow her to focus on a diligent training routine.

“I have incredible sponsors who not only stuck by me during these challenging times, but they also stepped up. We’re so grateful for all of our sponsors, owners and staff. It’s been a challenging year and everyone rose to the occasion and kept pressing forward. I’m thrilled with our team!”

One can learn more about Jessica and her remarkable journey in RISE: The Jessica Phoenix Story (ISBN: 978-0-9688438-1-9) by Julie Fitz-Gerald.

Fresh Off Kentucky Podium, Tim Price Wins at Strzegom

By US Equestrian Press Release on May 2, 2021 10:30 am -

Tim Price and Vitali. Leszek Wójcik photo.

Tim Price of New Zealand with the 11-year-old Vitali was the winner in the CCI4*-L class, the highest ranked one during Strzegom Spring Open. Polish rider finished second in the three-star class.

Price, the current world number two, was the one to watch in the class from the beginning. He took the lead after dressage, but gained some penalties after going over the time in the cross-country and fell into third. He made up for it in the jumping with a clear round that ensured his victory. Second place went to Mélody Johner aboard Toubleu de Rueire. The Swiss rider was the only one clear inside the time in the XC and went into the last trial as the leader, but two knockdowns cost her the leading position. Merel Blom (NED) with Ceda N.O.P. finished third.

Belgian rider Lara De Liedekerke-Meier was victorious in the CCI3*-L with Cascaria V after a clear round in the jumping. Second place went to Rebecca-Juana Gerken (GER) with Fame 227, and third to Seppe Vilain (BEL) riding Lamparo V.

The long two-star class ended with the win of Nicholas Goldbeck (GER) with Chintano 7. Andreas Ostholt (GER) finished second with Chilli Supreme and third went to Nadja Minder (SUI) with Victoryhope Treille.

Cross-country trials on Saturday ended the rivalry in the short format classes. The best pair of the CCI4*-S was Merel Blom (NED) and The Quizmaster. Niklas Lindbäck (SWE) with Focus Filiocus was second, and Andreas Dibowski (GER) with Brennus – third.

Hella Jensen (GER) took home the win in the CCI3*-S with Canjo, before Julia Gillmaier (POL) riding Red Dream Princes and Dutch rider Merel Blom with Crossborder Radar Love N.O.P. Blom was the best rider of the CCI*-Intro aboard Calgary 92.

Strzegom Spring Open selected the winners of six international and three national classes, with 185 riders competing with almost 300 horses from 17 countries.

To view results from the Strzegom Spring Open, click here.

Virginia Horse Trials Adds CCI3*-L to May Event

By US Equestrian Press Release on Apr 28, 2021 11:30 am -

Cross country laid out at Virginia Horse Trials. Photo by David Taylor.

The Virginia Horse Trials (VHT) is pleased to announce the addition of a CCI3*-L at the VHT International May 27-30, 2021, pending USEF and FEI approval.

Due to the current COVID-19 related travel restrictions between the United States and Canada, the addition of a CCI3*-L at VHT has been presented as an alternative to Bromont International in Quebec following requests by riders and the USEF.

“The pandemic has presented many challenges for the sport, and crossing the border between the United States and Canada with horses is unfortunately one of them,” said VHT Organizer Andy Bowles. “We received requests from riders and from the federation to add the level, so we are happy to include the CCI3*-L on our division roster at the Memorial Day weekend event.”

VHT will host the following divisions at the May event: CCI3*-L (pending approval), CCI3*-S, CCI2*-L, CCI2*-S, CCI1*-L, Advanced/Intermediate, Intermediate, Preliminary, Modified, Training, Novice, Beginner Novice, Starter, Young Event Horse-5, and Young Event Horse-4. The venue is also host of the 2021 USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championship.

For more information, please visit vahorsetrials.com.

Holly Hill Spring H.T. Hosts New Interscholastic Eventing League Competition

By US Equestrian Press Release on Apr 27, 2021 4:37 pm -

Photo courtesy of Holly Hill H.T.

Twenty-eight middle and high school students competing in a new USEA-sanctioned Interscholastic Eventing League (IEL) were among 250 riders at the Holly Hill Horse Trials April 17 and 18.

Holly Hill Farm, in Benton, Louisiana, is one of three Area V venues offering IEL teams a chance to compete this year. Farm owners Tracy and Bobby Hewlett started the horse trials in 1996 and have embraced opportunities to share their love of eventing with riders of all ages. Holly Hill runs the horse trials twice a year, in April and October. The farm’s signature red clover was in full bloom for the 2021 spring trials, providing a colorful backdrop for horses galloping around the cross country course.

“It was a wet weekend with rain all day Friday and cloudy and cool on Saturday, but everyone chose to be a good sport,” Tracy said. “The footing held up well for the horses all day Saturday. Luckily the sun came out Sunday morning and it was a beautiful day for upper level cross country and lower level show jumping!”

Seven teams composed of seventh- through 12th-grade students competed in the inaugural IEL challenge at Holly Hill in April. For now, teams compete for bragging rights, but ultimately USEA plans to have IEL eventing championships similar to collegiate eventing championships. The IEL program also is structured to prepare students for college eventing team participation.

Nicole Hackett gives the Holly Hill Horse Trials and the IEL challenge two thumbs up. Nicole is the chaperone for an IEL team based at Texas Rose Horse Park near Tyler, Texas. Her daughter, Luci, competed as an individual event rider at Holly Hill before joining the IEL team this year. Nicole competes in dressage.

“When we saw Holly Hill was on the IEL schedule, we picked a day to come school. It was a really nice introductory point for those that had never been there,” Nicole said. “The horse trial was fantastic. Eventing is my daughter’s social life, and to be able to go to an event and have her team support her was great. They were checking on each other, helping each braid, cheering each other on. It was so much fun to have that extra motivation and encouragement.”

The IEL team challenge wasn’t the only new feature at the horse trials this spring. Tracy and Bobby made other changes designed to improve the experience for horses and riders.

“We decided to move the cross country warm up area this year to make it bigger and get farther away from an entry gate and the dressage arenas. That worked out well,” Tracy said.

Tracy, Bobby and competitors also marked a bittersweet moment on April 18: USEA Eventing Hall of Fame member Mike Huber’s final horse trials in Area V. Mike is moving to Ocala, Florida, permanently after dividing his time between his Gold Chip Stables operations in Bartonville, Texas, and Ocala. A former member of the United States Equestrian Team, Mike has coached the Area V Young Riders Team and numerous individual riders.

“We recognized all his service to Area V and the USEA over the past 30 years,” Tracy said.

Ever So Sweet Scholarship Provides Opportunity for Diverse Equestrians to Train With Top Riders

By US Equestrian Press Release on Apr 22, 2021 12:00 pm -

The Ever So Sweet Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for diverse equestrians to train with top riders. Photo by Kimberly Loushin.

Strides for Equality Equestrians (SEE) and the United States Eventing Association Foundation are proud to announce the formation of the Ever So Sweet Scholarship. The scholarship, which is the first of its kind, provides a fully-funded opportunity for riders from diverse backgrounds to train with upper-level professionals.

Edy Rameika, Sara Kozumplik Murphy, and Brian Murphy will provide bi-annual sponsored internships for riders to train with Sara and Brian. Beginning in summer 2021, scholarship recipients will receive funding to immerse themselves in a high-performance training program with Brian and Sara at Overlook Farm Equestrian Center in Berryville, VA for three months. During the winter, the scholarship will provide two months of training with Sara and Brian in Florida. The scholarship will cover expenses for full board and training costs for the horse, several lessons per week, housing for the rider, a stipend to cover living expenses, competition fees, and coaching at competitions. Participants will learn to manage, care for, and compete horses in an immersive program and will have the opportunity to work as part of the team in all aspects of running a large, competitive barn.

Riders will also make professional connections that would otherwise be unattainable and play an active role in fostering a more inclusive environment within the sport. “I’ve had to overcome many challenges in my life as an upper-level event rider, but I never had the challenge of feeling like the sport wasn’t easily available to me. This scholarship allows access for those that currently don’t have a clear pathway to fight for their dreams,” Sara said when explaining why they decided to offer the opportunity. The Ever So Sweet scholarship is an important first step toward increasing diversity and inclusion in equestrian sports.

Edy shares the passion for providing opportunities for deserving riders, “Our family loves horses and the sport of eventing. My daughters, Roxanne and Nadine, began riding when they were quite young. They rode and competed through high school, and Roxanne continued into her college career. We are very fortunate. But there are students in underserved communities who have the passion and talent for the sport but perhaps not the means. Roxanne passed away in 2017 but her passion lives on through her family. Nadine, Sara, and I want to honor Roxanne and Nadine’s Native American heritage and their love of eventing through this scholarship in the hopes of helping to keep others’ dreams alive. ‘Ever So Sweet‘ is a song that was beloved to Roxanne and Nadine, especially during those memorable years of riding.”

Riders who are at least 17 years old, have access to an appropriate horse, and are committed to promoting access and inclusion in horse sports are invited to apply. Strides for Equality Equestrians also welcomes inquiries for more information about the scholarship and/or application process.

The scholarship application is available on SEE’s website here.

Strides for Equality Equestrians (SEE), founded in 2020 as an allyship program for the equestrian community, seeks to address the lack of racial and ethnic diversity in equestrian sports. SEE promotes a more inclusive culture by listening to and addressing the concerns of Black, Indigenous, and people of color within the community while educating equestrians about effective allyship. For more information, please visit www.stridesforequality.org.r

LRK3DE Announces ‘Behind the Barn’ Series of Interviews

By US Equestrian Press Release on Apr 16, 2021 3:41 pm -

Daniela Moguel and Cecelia. Photo by Shelby Allen.

The Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by MARS Equestrian™ (LRK3DE) is proud to introduce “Behind The Barn,” a unique series of 12 intimate video interviews with participants at the 2021 event. The in-depth, sit-down interviews will be featured on the event’s social media channels and website starting on Sunday, April 18.

The 2021 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by MARS Equestrian™ will be held – without spectators – April 22-25 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. With so many of its fans unable to attend “America’s Premier Equestrian Event,” Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), producer of the world-class event, is creating this series of interviews to enhance viewers’ online experience.

“This will be a chance to hear some of the biggest names in equestrian sport reveal what inspires them and what they hope to accomplish as they prepare for this year’s event,” said Lee Carter, EEI Executive Director. “In many ways this will give fans of our event an up-close look at our sport’s leading competitors beyond anything they could experience in person. We think everyone will be touched by some of the previously private stories they’ll hear.”

Known as “The Best Weekend All Year,” the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by MARS Equestrian™ (LRK3DE) hosts one of only seven annual Five Star three-day events in the world and is serving as a U.S. selection trial for this summer’s Tokyo Olympic Games. As the United States’ premier three-day event, LRK3DE serves as the Land Rover/USEF CCI-5*-L Eventing National Championship Presented by MARS Equestrian™ for U.S. athletes.

A new partnership between EEI and the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation combined with the support of US Equestrian (USEF), longstanding sponsors Land Rover, MARS Equestrian™ and Rolex and many other valued event sponsors, plus the collective efforts of the many individuals who donated, ensured that the nation’s premier equestrian event will be held with its traditional CCI5*-L in the afternoons and a new CCI4*-S in the mornings. Although the event is being held without spectators, it can be seen live online, free of charge, on the USEF Network.
The “Behind The Barn” interviews are hosted by veteran TV personality and three-day event rider Frankie Thieriot Stutes. The interviews will premiere on the event’s website and social media pages (Facebook and Instagram) as follows:

1. Sunday, April 18 – Liz Halliday-Sharp
2. Sunday, April 18 – Emilee Libby
3. Monday, April 19 – Derek DiGrazia
4. Monday, April 19 – Daniela Moguel
5. Monday, April 19 – Lauren Kieffer Nicholson and Jo Kieffer
6. Tuesday, April 20 – Tim and Jonelle Price
7. Tuesday, April 20 – Erik Duvander
8. Tuesday, April 20 – Buck Davidson
9. Wednesday, April 21 – Will Faudree
10. Wednesday, April 21 – Allison Springer
11. Wednesday, April 21 – Boyd Martin and Phillip Dutton
12. Wednesday, April 21 – William Fox-Pitt

“I have no doubt that these interviews will be incredibly popular,” Carter added. “The riders open up and reveal some very personal feelings that will touch everyone who watches. I am so excited about these interviews and I can’t wait for everyone to see them!”

[Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event]

USEF Announces Competition Spectator Capacity

By US Equestrian Press Release on Apr 15, 2021 11:00 am -

Photo courtesy of US Equestrian.

US Equestrian is pleased to announce that beginning May 3, 2021, licensees of USEF competitions are permitted to welcome a limited number of spectators back to their competitions. Dr. Mark Hart, USEF Chief Medical Officer stated, “In the spirit of moving our sport forward and recognizing the ever-changing dynamics of the Covid-19 pandemic resulting from the increasing number of distributed vaccines, we are working to finalize the specific protocols related to a measured return of spectator attendance. We continue to collaborate with our USEF stakeholders and public health officials and plan to distribute these new measures along with any other pertinent updates in the USEF COVID-19 Action Plan next Tuesday, April 20, 2021.”

Beginning May 3, 2021, spectators will be allowed on competition grounds under the following capacity restrictions:

Outdoor Venues: A maximum of 40% of the ticketed spectator capacity for competitions that operate with a ticketed gate, OR a maximum of 400 spectators for competitions that do not ticket spectators, whichever is greater.
Indoor Venues: A maximum of 30% of the ticketed spectator capacity for competitions that operate with a ticketed gate, OR a maximum of 300 spectators for competitions that do not ticket spectators, whichever is greater.
For venues that consist of both outdoor and indoor components, the above capacity restrictions apply accordingly.

It is important to note that spectators must comply with all applicable requirements of the Action Plan, including but not limited to wearing face masks/face coverings, social distancing, and frequent hand washing. The capacity numbers included above are the maximum permitted at a USEF competition each day. Because of the requirement to socially distance, some venues or situations might not allow organizers to accommodate the maximum allowable number of spectators.

Additionally, USEF has expanded the definition of sponsors to include individual persons or business entities that have an agreement in place with the competition to provide goods, services, or financial support integral to the sustainability of a competition. Sponsors, participants, competition staff, support personnel, volunteers, and service providers are not included in the spectator capacity numbers.

USEF hopes that the community will continue its collective effort to keep the sport open as restrictions are eased by remaining compliant with the requirements of the Action Plan. “We will continue to carefully monitor conditions and regularly consult with health authorities with the goal of being able to provide additional updates in the coming weeks and months that will further ease restrictions without endangering the health and safety of competitors,” added Dr. Hart.

Thank you for your participation in USEF competitions and your support of the COVID-19 Action Plan. Your efforts have helped keep you and those around you safe and healthy while also keeping the sport open and operating during a global pandemic.

[USEF Announces Competition Spectator Capacity]

USEF Competition COVID Protocols Update: Developing Plans to Permit Spectators at USEF Competitions

By US Equestrian Press Release on Apr 8, 2021 1:00 pm -

US Equestrian has released the following letter to members regarding updates to COVID protocols and spectators at USEF-licensed competitions:

Photo by Shelby Allen.

Dear USEF Members,

We have all been watching the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic and are looking forward to the day when our world will return to a level of pre-pandemic normalcy. As more and more individuals across the country are getting vaccinated, hope is increasing that we are getting closer to this goal. However, the threats posed by the numerous virus variants, coupled with the increase in COVID cases in many of the states that have recently lifted restrictions, remind us that now is not the time to let our guard down. We must remain vigilant and continue to engage in the practices proven to reduce the risk of virus transmission (mask-wearing, social distancing, and frequent hand-washing).

To this end, the current USEF COVID-19 Action Plan remains in place for all USEF-licensed competitions. However, we are optimistic that we will be able to permit a limited number of spectators at USEF-licensed competitions by mid-May. Further updates and new protocols will be provided in the coming weeks so that organizers and spectators have time to prepare in advance.

To develop the safest possible USEF spectator protocols for use at competitions nationwide, we are regularly consulting with our USEF Chief Medical Officer and national public health organizations while staying up to date on the COVID status in each state. Like the other requirements outlined in the USEF COVID-19 Action Plan, these protocols will apply unilaterally to all USEF-licensed competitions, regardless of location. The only exceptions involve instances where state, county, or local government and health authorities or a particular competition organizer have more stringent requirements in place, in which case those more stringent requirements take precedence.

We thank you for your participation in USEF competitions and your support of the COVID-19 Action Plan. Your efforts have helped keep you and those around you safe and healthy and our sport open and operating during this devastating global pandemic. It is important that we all continue to work together on a safe return to more normal and healthier times for everyone.

Best regards,

Thomas F. X. O’Mara
President

William J. Moroney
Chief Executive Officer

Next Up in US Equestrian’s DEI Community Conversations Series: Accessibility and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities

By US Equestrian Press Release on Apr 6, 2021 3:00 pm -

US Equestrian is pleased to announce that the next DEI Community Conversation, “Harnessing Accessibility and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities,” will be held via Zoom on Wednesday, April 14, from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. ET. Hosted in partnership with RespectAbility, this conversation will focus on the lived experience of people with different disabilities in the equestrian industry and beyond, as well as offer 10 tips for disability etiquette. Para dressage rider and disability advocate Alanna Flax-Clark will be the keynote speaker.

“Harnessing Accessibility and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities” is free to attend and open to all people. You do not need to be a USEF member. Captions and an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter will be provided for this DEI Community Conversation.

Can’t make the live session? USEF members will be able to access the conversation on demand in the Learning Center. Join US Equestrian for free by signing up for a fan membership here using promo code inclusion21.

Meet the Panelists

Alanna Flax-Clark, M.S.Ed. (Glen Gardner, N.J.) is a para-equestrian competing in dressage, as well as an actress, model, and writer. She was a member of the silver medal-winning Adequan® U.S. Para Dressage Team at the 2019 Caledon Spring Jubilee CPEDI3* and was named the 2019 Adequan/United States Dressage Federation Para Dressage Rider of the Year, among many other impressive performances.

Photo courtesy of Alanna Flax-Clark

Flax-Clark is a disability advocate, mentor to newly disabled members of the community, and aims to bring greater awareness to how sports and an active lifestyle can positively affect people with disabilities. She was diagnosed with a chronic neurological disease when she was younger and contracted a severe case of the influenza virus in her mid-20s that caused her immune system to attack her nerves, leaving her a quadriplegic. Flax-Clark decided to test out equine-assisted activities and therapies after becoming frustrated with her traditional rehab. She fell in love with horses and the sport of para dressage. Full Bio

Photo courtesy Ava Xiao-Lin Rigelhaupt.

Ava Xiao-Lin Rigelhaupt is an avid equestrian and a writer, actress, and advocate for disability and autism representation in the entertainment industry. As an Entertainment Media Communications Fellow with RespectAbility, she consults on television shows and movies with studios like Disney and Netflix. Rigelhaupt started her disability advocacy as a founding member of a neurodiverse theatre company and as an inclusion intern at Trinity Repertory Company in Rhode Island. Rigelhaupt wants to write for TV or film and continue her love of acting by working with entertainment companies and professionals to create more opportunities for diverse people with disabilities in the entertainment industry. Full Bio

Photo by Rick Guidotti, Positive Exposure 109

Abigail Shaw is a long-distance runner and received a Bachelor of Science in Music Industry Studies from Appalachian State University and currently is pursuing a Master of Social Work from Fordham University. She works at Learning Ally, an educational solutions organization serving individuals with learning disabilities and those who are blind or low-vision. She is the College Success Program’s mentorship coordinator and the production coordinator of audiobooks at Learning Ally. Shaw is co-captain of the New York City chapter of Achilles International, an organization promoting mainstream athletics for people with disabilities. Whether by plane, train, automobile, or on foot, Shaw’s preferred method of transportation includes her yellow lab guide dog, Kit, by her side. Full Bio (Photo by Rick Guidotti, Positive Exposure 109)

Photo courtesy of Rabbi Darby Leigh.

Rabbi Darby Leigh is a passionate snowboarder and the rabbi of Congregation Kerem Shalom in Concord, Mass. He is an advocate for the deaf community, committed to creating an inclusive, caring community with intellectual honesty and spiritual depth. Leigh is a published author, including a chapter in Deaf Identities: Exploring New Frontiers. He was a consultant for Hands On, an organization that provides sign language interpreting services for Broadway and off-Broadway productions, as well as for the Oscar-nominated documentary Sound and Fury. Leigh has also worked to create online videos with numerous other organizations where he has taught on issues related to deafness and disability access, earning many accolades along the way. He is married to Dr. Randi Leigh and they have three daughters. Full Bio

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Fink.

Jennifer Fink is a routine dog walker of her two retrievers, health care consultant for a D.C.-based firm, and social entrepreneur. Her passion lies in promoting behavioral and community health to empower individuals learning to cope with anxiety and depression. Fink lives with these nonvisible disabilities due to an accident and illness in her mid-20s. Fink had founded a nonprofit and co-authored a children’s book supporting military-connected children. She collaborated with the Obama White House’s Joining Forces Initiative; and due to Fink’s finesse, former First Lady Michelle Obama filmed a video for a USO Asia-Pacific Tour that Fink co-led. Fink offers simple tips in “mental fitness” that can benefit everyone, during and beyond the pandemic. A captivating and relatable storyteller, she weaves in humor and grace as she shares her story, wisdom, and lessons learned from her journey. (Photo courtesy of Jennifer Fink)

Photo by Peter Michelena.

Andrea Jennings is a former events planner and the founder of Shifting Creative Paradigms Entertainment and Productions, a production company dedicated to creating and producing inclusive and diverse content for television, film, theatre, and music productions. She is also guest lecturer at California State University, Los Angeles, and advocates for accessibility and disability rights through various advisory committees and as a commissioner. She trains individuals and industry professionals to “level the playing field” by teaching them creative solutions to influence social change in the arts, fashion, entertainment, and more. Jennings experienced a major car accident when she was working for a global advertising conglomerate. The accident left her with multiple life-changing injuries, which affected her ability to walk and work. After the accident, she realized her purpose was to create equitable solutions for social change and accessible events through her lived experience so that she could help others.(Photo by Peter Michelena)

Photo courtesy of Debbie Fink.

Debbie Fink is the moderator, director, and producer of DEI Community Conversations: Harnessing Accessibility and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities. Fink is the outgoing Director of Community Outreach and Impact for RespectAbility and the incoming Vice President of Disability, Education, and Inclusion at the Cerebral Palsy Foundation, where she will oversee the national scaling of the disability inclusion school-based program, “Just Say Hi.”

About RespectAbility

RespectAbility is a national, nonpartisan, non-profit organization that fights stigmas and advances opportunities so people with disabilities can fully participate in all aspects of community. To realize its mission, RespectAbility works collaboratively with employers, elected officials, policy makers, educators, self-advocates, non-profits, faith-based organizations, philanthropists, and the entertainment and news media. Led by diverse people with disabilities and allies, RespectAbility knows that people with disabilities and their families have the same hopes and dreams as everyone else. All six panelists for this DEI Community Conversation are speakers with RespectAbility’s National Disability Speakers Bureau (NDSB). To learn more about the NDSB, and/or to book one of its speakers, email [email protected].

About the DEI Community Conversations Series

US Equestrian’s DEI Community Conversations series will serve as a forum for raising awareness about the various experiences and issues affecting equestrians from under-represented or under-served communities. The series aims to lift traditionally marginalized voices from the equestrian community, and beyond, while building community across the broad network of horse sport enthusiasts. The series is an initiative of the DEI Action Plan’s comprehensive marketing plan strategy, one of 10 strategies to advance DEI in the sport over the next three to five years.

Doug Payne and Vandiver Grab the Win in The Fork at TIEC CCI4*-S

By US Equestrian Press Release on Apr 4, 2021 10:30 pm -

Doug Payne and Vandiver. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Sunday saw thrilling finishes across the board for The Fork at TIEC presented by Nutrena®, but none as definitive as Doug Payne (USA) topping the leaderboard in the ProElite® CCI4*-S Division, in addition to top-ten placings with Quantum Leap and Starr Witness, in fifth and eighth. In between rides and coaching across all divisions in Eventing, Payne was also winning in the Jumper rings as part of Tryon Welcome 2 competition, where he went two-for-two aboard Quintessence. Read more about Tryon Welcome 2 results here.

Sunday at Tryon International Equestrian Center and Resort (TIEC) saw competitors contest Cross-Country and Show Jumping phases of The Fork at TIEC presented by Nutrena®, with upper levels challenging the Captain Mark Phillips (GBR) course design on the White Oak Cross-Country Course and Michel Vaillancourt (CAN) designing Show Jumping courses in Tryon Stadium. Read below to see results and interviews from all divisions.

Doug Payne (USA) and Vandiver, the 2004 Trakehner gelding (Windfall 2 – Visions of Grandeur, by Mystic Replica xx) owned by Debi Crowley and Doug and Jessica Payne, were the only pair to avoid adding time faults to their score after Cross-Country, securing the win in the ProElite® CCI 4*-S Division on a score of 25.7. Payne also collected fifth place with Quantum Leap, the 2011 DSP gelding (Quite Capitol – Report to Sloopy, by Corporate Report) owned by Doug and Jessica Payne, on a score of 34.6, while Starr Witness, the 2011 Dutch Warmblood mare (Chello III VDL – Carmen, by Veneur) owned by Laurie H. McRee, Doug Payne, and Catherine Winter, scored 37.9 to grab eighth place. Holding steady all weekend at second place, Boyd Martin (USA) finished on a score of 28.1 for reserve with Tsetserleg, the 2007 Trakehner gelding (Windfall *PG* – Thabanna, by Buddenbrock) owned by Christine, Thomas IV and Tommie Turner. Tamie Smith (USA) held onto the podium with Mai Baum, adding 7.2 to her score to finish with a 28.4 in third aboard the 2006 German Sport Horse gelding (Loredano – Ramira, by Rike) owned by Alexandra Ahearn, Ellen Ahearn and Eric Markell.

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Payne, whose three CCI 4*-S mounts are all qualified for Tokyo should he get the chance to go, reported that his goal with each horse was to “let them flow and see what we could get done,” which resulted in top ten finishes. “Quinn [Vandiver] is the old man of the group, but he’s just getting better and better each year! He’s honestly easy and efficient – it’s not that I wasn’t trying to go fast, but he’s just a quick horse. He covers the ground and is easy on himself,” Payne explained. “Whereas, with Quantum [Leap], who was pretty close to the time, every once in a while needs to be set up a little more. He’s a five-star horse in the making, without a doubt.”

Starr Witness, Payne’s Pan-American Games mount, is aiming at a 4*-L run in Jersey unlike the others, who are aimed at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, he explained. “Clearly, she’s a classy horse as well. She just doesn’t have the base fitness that the other two do at the moment. Fitness is a little less urgent with her right now. We’ll see what we can do the rest of the season!”

Doug Payne and Vandiver. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Payne was one of numerous riders to take advantage of jump schooling opportunities under the lights in Tryon Stadium and Dressage test of choice schooling offerings. “I think it’s a great opportunity, and honestly, under-utilized,” Payne shared. “You seldom ever get a chance to ride in an atmosphere that’s provided here, so to do that in a schooling environment is awesome. Hopefully that continues, because it was super valuable.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

“Only at Tryon could you jump and event in the same weekend easily,” Payne emphasized about his multidiscipline weekend. “The footing [on Cross-Country] was excellent, I thought. It’s super helpful that they pulled the little jumps off last night. I can’t say enough [about the team here.] Tryon has done an excellent job here, and we look forward to coming back as often as we can!” Payne concluded, “I’m really lucky to have this group of horses and the team behind us that makes it all happen. There’s certainly a lot going on, but it’s great.”

Lucienne Elms and Tremanton. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Lucienne Elms and Tremanton Breeze to CCI 3*-S Win

Lucienne Elms (GBR) blazed around the White Oak Cross-Country Course with Tremanton to maintain their lead in the CCI 3*-S Division, finishing on a score of 28.9 for the win. Allison Springer (USA) and Crystal Crescent Moon, the 2013 Connemara cross gelding (Catherston Dazzler – Ebony Moon, by Mystic Replica) owned by Nancy Winter, grabbed reserve on a score of 29.3 after their double-clear Cross-Country run, while Tamie Smith and Solaguayre California, the 2011 Silla Argentina mare (Caspara – Solaguayre Calandria, by Casall) owned by David and Julianne Guariglia, kept their 30.8 score to receive third place.

Elms said that the 2012 Sport Horse Breeding of Great Britain mare (Birkhof’s Graffenstolz – Trevia, by Hand in Glove) felt confident and balanced, lending to a speedier ride than she had anticipated. “Genuinely, my plan was actually just to let her find a rhythm and then not hassle her out a bit, but I set off riding forward and actually, the way they built it, the course rewarded quite forward riding, I guess, and the combinations were built to sort of just keep moving. So she felt confident, and balanced, and the ground was great. So I just kept the same rhythm and when I got to the furthest part of the course, I saw that I was on a pretty good time at that point. Every time she landed, I kept her just moving forward; she’s got a lot of blood in her with a natural gallop. I rode carefully through the second water. That was a little bit big for her. And then she had loads of gallop left!

“That’s the joy of her having a full thoroughbred dam: she can open up and dig deep when she needs to!” Elms emphasized. “But I’ll definitely now back off for a month or so to give her some time, but I’m really encouraged with that run. The course was brilliant; it was really educational, and there was a table on four strides to a corner on the way home. When they build like that, it’s lovely cause it just prepares them for the next level. It’s just lovely education for the horses’ brains.”

After a successful weekend with multiple rides beneath her, Elms is now looking to aim Tremanton for a 3*-L at the Tryon International Three-Day Event in November, after a lighter summer ahead of her. “I really just want to say thank you so much to the Tryon team for creating such a professional, international environment. The arenas and the footing are fantastic. I know how much effort they’ve had to put in, given that we had so much rain here last week,” she concluded.

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

Maya Black and Double Diamond C Dominate CCI 2*-S Division

Maya Black (USA) and Double Diamond C, the 2015 Hanoverian gelding (Diacontinus – Lois Lane CBF) owned by Laurie Cameron, capped off the weekend with a win in the CCI 2*-S Division, making light work of the White Oak Cross-Country course to finish on a score of 28.8. Meghan O’Donoghue (USA) and Fashionable Man, her own 2013 Thoroughbred gelding (Charitable Man – So Francie), claimed second place on a score of 30.8, while third place went to Jordan Crabo (USA) on a score of 32.3 aboard her own FE Uncle Sam, a 2014 Holsteiner gelding (Uriko – Tinka I, by Paramount).

Black summed up her Cross-Country tour with Double Diamond C, whom she calls “Perfect Peter,” as a “pretty perfect round. He was perfect out there, and everything rode great. He jumped very confidently, and very rideable, and he jumped really well into the water. Sometimes he can jump a bit big into the water, but now at this level, the water jumps are getting bigger, so he’s jumping more normally into the water because it’s a bigger drop. He felt very well prepared and comfortable and just galloped around and felt exactly how I would have hoped him to be!”

Facing no trouble at the drop-in at the water obstacle that caused her to take a tumble last fall, Black emphasized that she was extra prepared to have good rides on all three shots she took on course. “I jumped off that jump into the water three times today, and I made sure to put my arm back all three times, which might’ve been a little extreme, but I [was determined] to not do that again! They all three jumped in super, and didn’t have any bobbles, so that was good.”

After qualifying her rides for a 2*-L later on in the season, Black will give her young mounts some well-deserved rest time before planning for the fall season. “Really, for their age, my horses are ahead of schedule, basically, so they’re going to have an easy while when we head back to Virginia. They’ll get out in the fields for a month or so, and then we’ll start working on flat work and fitness again before we look at the plan for the fall. I’m trying to keep them sound and happy for the future!”

Boyd Martin and On Cue. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Austin Skeens and What Gives Win their First CCI 1*-S

Austin Skeens (USA) the 2014 Thoroughbred gelding owned by Heather Skeens, What Gives, made light work of the CCI 1*-S Division to claim the gelding’s first FEI event on a score of 39.4. Second place went to Anna Billings (USA) with her own Wexford Cruise, the 2013 Irish Sport Horse gelding (Loch Cruise – Glebe Creme, by Rich Rebel), on a score of 44.1, while Sandra Holden (USA) and Cano Cristales, her own 2003 Hanoverian gelding (Conteur – Konny, by Kolibri), rounded out the podium on a final score of 65.6.

Skeens reported that he wasn’t sure how What Gives would handle the massive environment that TIEC offers as a venue, but was amazed to see his young mount take everything in stride. “We came into this not exactly sure what we’d have, because it’s just such a big venue, especially [for a horse] who’s never been here. But he was just such an absolute superstar, in all three phases. I’m just incredibly impressed with the way he handled all of the atmosphere everywhere that he went.”

Beyond the scores, Skeens is excited to have discovered that What Gives handles atmosphere and excitement “like a pro” and that even on Cross-Country, they left the start box and “didn’t look back. He was super super fast, and jumped everything just as well as he could and carried on straight to the finish line. He had lots of gas left in the tank at the end, even after the big hill. At the bottom, he was ready to take me right up it. It was really, really great.”

Going forward, Skeens will reassess his plans for What Gives after such a successful outing, he admitted. “We will just kind of see where the road takes us. When you have a weekend like this, you kind of look at everything in a different light. He came into the Dressage and really held his own against some really nice horses, and then of course he ran Cross-Country like a champion. He’s proving that he’s really a great horse, so we’re just lucky to have him on board.”

Though he’s competed at TIEC before, at the 2017 American Eventing Championships, Skeens concluded that he had especially enjoyed arriving early and enjoying Tryon Resort’s atmosphere outside of the competition rings. “I just brought one horse, so being at Tryon has been great. I always love coming here – whenever you get an excuse to come to a place like this, definitely do! It’s just another world, you know. The experience is great, and it’s like Disneyland! It was nice to have an extra day to kind of take in the sights and spend Friday just enjoying the park and enjoying life here. It’s just really fun to be here, and it was a great weekend. We will definitely be back!”

Arden Wildasin and Tokyo Drift. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Will Faudree and Boyd Martin Collect Advanced Division Wins

Will Faudree (Southern Pines, NC) and Mama’s Magic Way, the 2011 Hanoverian gelding (Mighty Magic – Straightaway) owned by Jennifer Mosing and Sterling Silver Stables, collected a win in the Advanced – Test A Division despite pulling two rails in Show Jumping and adding 16.4 time penalties after Cross-Country, finishing on a 52.2. Lucienne Elms (Campobello, SC) and Atlantic Vital Spark, her own 2010 Irish Sport Horse gelding (Atlantic Sparky – Atlantic Biance), improved from fourth to second on a final score of 58.7, while Sarah Kuhn (Aiken, SC) and Mr. Cash van de Start, Deborah Kuhn’s 2012 Belgian Warmblood gelding (Deauville de la Vie – Ishtar van de Start), retained third place honors on a final score of 59.1.

Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way led the entire weekend in the division, and he calls the gelding a “kindred spirit” who is really starting to come together as an Advanced horse. “He’s a really cool horse. Everybody that knows me and him knows we’re basically like kindred spirits, like 3-year-old toddlers let loose in a candy store on a sugar high. The Dressage is starting to come together, and there’s more there, which is really exciting. He’s a super jumper and he’s really fun to ride on the Cross Country and in the Show Jumping.”

Though pulling a few rails in Tryon Stadium Saturday night didn’t cost them the win, Faudree mentioned that his horse’s extreme carefulness became a bit of a foil when shadows on the ground started to look like ground poles: “I felt a bit bad for him last night. One rail, I could’ve given him a bit more room, but the next rail it was like he was trying to bounce the shadow rail in front of the jump. The lighting in the ring at the time, about an hour before sunset when he went, just made him a bit spooky. I felt a bit bad for him because he does not like to touch things! He was just superb at Cross-Country,” Faudree shared. “It was a great track and a great venue to be at leading up to Kentucky in a couple weeks.”

Boyd Martin (Cochranville, PA) retained his one-two placing in the Advanced – Test B Division, with Long Island T taking over the lead after Cross-Country phase to finish on a score of 41.8 with the 2006 Oldenburg/Thoroughbred gelding (Ludwig von Bayern – Highlight) owned by the Long Island T Syndicate. Luke 140, the 2011 Holsteiner gelding (Landos – Omega VI) owned by the Luke 140 Syndicate, finished in reserve on a score of 42.7. Staying steady in third, Daniela Moguel (Shelby, NC) piloted Cecelia, the 2003 Thoroughbred mare (Connecticut – Penny Stock) owned by Jorge Martinez and Paloma Garcia, to third place with a final tally of 47.3 points.

Tamie Smith and Danito. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Caroline Martin and Vamonos are Victorious in Open Preliminary

Caroline Martin (Miami Beach, FL) and Vamonos, the 2015 Zangersheide gelding (Andiamo VH Kapelhof Z – Quasimodelle Kapelhof Z), which she owns with Sherrie Martin, scored a win in the Open Preliminary Division on a final total of 32.2, improving from second to first and trading places with Paige Crotty (Southboro, MA) aboard Excel Star Armina Z, her own 2012 Irish Zangersheide mare (Air Jordan Z – Cromina Z), who finished on a score of 33.4 for reserve after adding four faults to her score. In third, Mary Bess Davis (Mansfield, GA) and her own Imperio Magic, the 2014 Warmblood gelding (Cassander C – Khadija des Hayattes), scored 38.1 after pulling a rail in Tryon Stadium.

Martin is still getting to know Vamonos, after she received him as a wedding present recently, she revealed. “I just started riding him about a month and a half ago. He was produced by Emily King, who took him to young horse championships and stuff like that as a six year old. He had a quiet year last year and went back to his home in Ireland. Funny enough, he’s a wedding present! My friend who is a dealer and sells horses with me got him for me as an engagement/wedding present. He’s a super horse, and I ended up buying him. We’re just getting to know each other.”

Though they’ve only been to a few shows together yet, Martin sees Vamonos as a horse to bring up the levels and keep in her string for the long haul. “He’s definitely able to go up the levels. We’ve got a big future, and we’re looking more towards next year! It was a good weekend for all of the horses,” she concluded. “The surfaces for Dressage are amazing, and the Show Jumping under the lights in the big stadium is a great atmosphere for the horses. It was very good practice for them, and the Cross-Country course was lovely.”

Benita Strini and DHI Kevin G Collect Open Novice Win

Benita Strini (Scottsville, VA) and DHI Kevin G, the 2015 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Plain Dealing Farm, led Open Novice the whole way to finish on a score of 20.2 in their competitive division. Kelly Waters (Verbank, NY) earned second place aboard Family Man, her own 2008 Hanoverian gelding, ending up with a final score of 21.2, while Audrie Stanka (Simonton, TX) and Jenny, the 2014 Dutch Warmblood mare owned by Zachary Brandt, took home third place on a score of 23.3.

The Fork at TIEC: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Area 2, Area 1 Victorious in Inaugural USEF Eventing Youth Team Challenge Aiken

By US Equestrian Press Release on Apr 1, 2021 2:00 pm -

A total of 29 youth athletes participated in the inaugural Adequan/USEF Eventing Youth Team Challenge Aiken on March 25-27, 2021, at Stable View Farm in Aiken, S.C., representing Areas 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8.

A new USEF Eventing program launched in 2021 as an evolution of the FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC), the Youth Team Challenge (YTC) mimics the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ Series by offering youth athletes between the FEI ages of 14-25 the opportunity to compete for their Areas in selected short-format competitions throughout the season, culminating in a long-format Final in the fall on both coasts.

“We were thrilled with the strong response from athletes across seven different Areas to make the inaugural Adequan/USEF Eventing Youth Team Challenge Aiken such a success,” said Jenni Autry, USEF Managing Director of Eventing. “The feedback from athletes has been very encouraging, and we will continue to seek ways to promote, grow, and expand this program in its pilot year and beyond. Creating team opportunities for youth athletes is a vitally important component of the Eventing Pathway, and the Youth Team Challenge provides a format for us to facilitate these opportunities.”

CCI3*-S Team and Individual Results
The Area 2 team of Sydney Solomon, 23, (Dayton, Md.) and her own and Leslie Solomon’s FE Mactan; Meg Pellegrini, 16, (Wayne, Pa.) and her own RF Eloquence; Isabelle Bosley, 23, (Cochranville, Pa.) and her own Night Quality; and Calli Lipping, 19, (Bethesda, Md.) and her own Wild Affair topped the YTC CCI3*-S podium on a final team score of 148.5. Two double-clear show jumping rounds around Chris Barnard’s tough track ultimately boosted the team to victory.

Meg Pellegrini and RF Eloquence GRC Photography — *Meg Pellegrini & RF Eloquence. Photo courtesy of GRCPhoto.com.*

Area 4’s team of Greta Schwickert, 22, (Kasota, Minn.) and her own and Jane and Kent Schwickert’s Matchless; Kristine Burgess, 22, (Lino Lakes, Minn.) and her own Twoggeron; and Caitlyn Ruud, 17, (Franksville, Wisc.) and Light Speed Equestrian’s Up to You de Lorage took second place in the CCI3*-S team results. A scramble team of Area 2’s Vanessa Stoltzfus, 22, (Lancaster, Pa.) and Teddy Sarc; Area 5’s Kit Ferguson, 19, (Tulsa, Okla.) and Cilbhrid Tom; and Area 4’s Caitlyn Ruud and MGH Heartbeat finished third.

In the individual CCI3*-S YTC standings, Area 2’s Isabelle Bosley and Night Quality took the top podium spot on a final score of 32.9, which placed them third overall in a large field of more than 50 combinations. Bosley said her clear round inside the time on Capt. Mark Phillips’ cross-country course stands out as a highlight of the competition.

*Sydney Solomon & FE Mactan. Photo courtesy of GRCPhoto.com.*

“My goal was a good run to prep us for the bigger shows later in the spring. He did a good dressage test and felt super in show jumping. By that point, I knew we were in a competitive spot and thought we would go for the time on cross-country. He was really bold cross-country and gave me a great feeling all the way around. I was thrilled. I wanted to get a good confident run, and it was a cherry on top to have the result we did,” Bosley said, adding that she enjoyed competing in a team environment.

“I work for and train with Lillian Heard. The Area 2 team consisted of my coworker, Calli, and Meg and Sydney, who are both students of Lillian. We are all close already, so it made it really fun that we were all able to compete together. It gave the weekend a bit of a special of feel to it. It’s really fun to have the team environment, and it makes the whole show more exciting and makes you more jazzed for all phases because you want to do the best you can for your teammates.”

*Calli Lipping & Wild Affair. Photo courtesy of GRCPhoto.com.*

The YTC Aiken was Bosley’s first team experience, as she had not previously participated at NAYC.

“Previously I had never applied for NAYC because it wasn’t as affordable and realistic for me, as I needed to be able to work and couldn’t be away from home for so long. With this new format, I was able to groom and work for Lillian while competing in the Team Challenge, so it makes it much more accessible for me. NAYC didn’t fit in with my schedule and my life, but this is something that can definitely work for me.”

Area 8’s Alex Baugh,19, (Lexington, Ky.) and Altorac Farm’s Mr. Candyman finished second in the YTC CCI3*-S individual standings and 11th overall on a final score of 42.0. Area 2’s Meg Pellegrini and RF Eloquence finished third in the YTC standings and 16th overall on a final score of 45.3.

CCI2*-S Team and Individual Results
Weather delays did not stop the Area 1 team of Elizabeth Gill, 18, (Wellesley, Mass.) and her own Opportunity Knoxx; Libby Scruton, 18, (Elizaville, N.Y.) and her own One and Only; Ayden Schain, 17, (Bradford, Vt.) and Dawn Barclay’s Fernhill Hole Shot; and Jack Curtis, 17, (Beverly, Mass.) and Betsy Curtis’s Luska Candy Clover from leading the CCI2*-S team competition from start to finish. The team delivered three double-clear cross-country rounds to finish on a team score of 96.4.

*Libby Scruton & One and Only. Photo courtesy of GRCPhoto.com.*

The scramble team for Areas 3 and 4 of Katarina Midgley, 18, (Franklin, Tenn.) and her own Ditch; Mya Poulos, 16, (Barrington Hills, Ill.) and her own Sir Duke; Carly Blank, 16, (Alpharetta, Ga.) and her own Connacht Dinin; and Rebecca Roth, 16, (Malone, Wisc.) and Stephanie Roth’s Chapter Two took second place on a score of 134.3.

Rounding out the top three teams was the scramble team for Areas 5 and 2 of Anna Pierce, 20, (McGregor, Texas) and her own and Diane Pierce’s Obiejohn; Mikayla Cutler, 19, (Annapolis, Md.) and her own Reverie; Kenna Jensen, 17, (League City, Texas) and her own Gowiene; and Vienna Allport, 14, (Rockwall, Texas) and Darren Allport’s DHI Zatopek B.

Area 1 also swept the CCI2*-S individual standings, with Ayden Schain and Fernhill Hole Shot taking top honors, finishing on their dressage score of 30.9 to place the combination eighth in a competitive division of more than 60 horses. This was the first FEI competition and first team competition for Schain, and she said the pressure of the team environment changed the feel of the competition.

*Ayden Schain & Fernhill Hole Shot. GRC PhotographyPhoto courtesy of GRCPhoto.com.*

“[Fernhill Hole Shot] had some of his best work in the dressage, so I was really pleased with him. He’s a really nice moving horse, so the dressage comes very naturally to him. He’s like a dancing partner, and that’s been fun for me to feel. The show jumping was foot perfect. He’s a bigger horse at 17.2, so the jumps aren’t super big for him and he’s pretty scopey. On the cross-country, he’s really come a long way since I’ve had him. It was a great confidence-boosting round for us. He’s gotten really brave, and to feel that over the last year has been fun. I felt like it all came together on course,” Schain said.

“Normally when I compete, I am really competitive, but I know I’m only competing for myself and against myself. But with the team, I felt like every time I went in the arena or left the start box, the pressure was on. It was a different feeling, but I really liked it knowing that the team score was on the line. I was last to go out for the team on cross-country and everyone before me had clear rounds, and I knew I had to jump clean and I had to go fast. I hadn’t made time with him yet, and I made time at Stable View. Knowing the pressure was on made me really push for it.”

*Elizabeth Gill & Opportuntity Knoxx. Photo courtesy of GRCPhoto.com.*

Looking to the rest of the YTC CCI2*-S standings, Jack Curtis and Luska Candy Clover finished second on the individual leaderboard and ninth overall in the division on a final score of 31.0. Libby Scruton and One and Only rounded out the top three in the individual YTC standings and placed 16th on a final score of 34.5.

The YTC also offers a new opportunity for athletes between the FEI ages of 14-18 to participate at the CCI1* level. While no Areas brought forward teams for the CCI1*, Area 1’s Crockett Miller, 15, (Ellerslie, Ga.) and her own Mr. Panda added only one rail in show jumping to their dressage score of 32.6 to top the individual YTC CCI1* leaderboard and finish second overall in the division.

Barry Olliff, owner of Stable View Farm, was thrilled to add the YTC to the venue’s spring FEI competition, which also hosted a CCI4*-S in addition to the other FEI levels.

*Jack Curtis & Luska Candy Clover. Photo courtesy of GRCPhoto.com.*

“Stable View was very proud to have hosted the first Youth Team Challenge,” Olliff said. “Apart from some heavy rain, which was great for cross-country, the three days went very smoothly and the competition went well. This is a great format for the future of U.S. Eventing.”

Team Results
Individual Results

Thank you to Adequan for their title sponsorship of the Adequan/USEF Eventing Youth Team Challenge, and to Attwood Equestrian Surfaces for donating a cooler to the top-placed individuals in the CCI2*-S and CCI3*-S.

Learn more about the Youth Team Challenge and future competitions on the USEF Eventing website at usef.org/eventing.

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FEI Publishes Return to Competition Measures for Mainland Europe

By US Equestrian Press Release on Mar 30, 2021 12:00 pm -

Stock image via Canva.

The FEI has today published the Return To Competition measures that will allow for a safe resumption of international sport in mainland Europe on April 12 following a six-week shutdown to control the spread of the neurological form of the Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1).

The measures focus on six key areas: Pre-event venue preparations by Organisers; Athlete pre-event preparations; Examination on Arrival; Onsite at Event Venue; Departure from Events; and Jurisdiction.

The Return To Competition measures, which were comprehensively reviewed at a stakeholder consultation session last week and fine-tuned by both the FEI Veterinary Epidemiology Working Group and the FEI Veterinary Committee, have now been approved by the FEI Board.

Stakeholders who joined last week’s two-hour online consultation session included Athlete Representatives Pedro Veniss (Jumping) and Beatriz Ferrer Salat (Dressage), Eleonora Ottaviani (International Jumping Riders Club), Klaus Roeser (International Dressage Riders Club), Peter Bollen (Equestrian Organisers), Dominique Megret (Jumping Owners Club), Quentin Simonet and Ulf Helgstrand (European Equestrian Federation), together with international grooms Heidi Mulari (Steve Guerdat) and Kirsty Pascoe (Jérôme Guery), and FEI Events Stable Manager Patrick Borg.

The measures include a series of temporary provisions, which will remain in place until May 30, 2021, providing a science-based safety margin to allow for monitoring of any further related outbreaks. This date can be extended if required and advance notice will be provided to the community. These temporary provisions will be formalised in legally binding Bylaws which will be published during the week commencing April 5 2021.

The FEI Veterinary Epidemiology Working Group has agreed that there is currently no evidence indicating that it would be unsafe to return to international competition in mainland Europe as planned on April 12, provided the mandated enhanced preventive measures are implemented and there are no further linked outbreaks. The Group will continue to monitor the evolution of the European outbreak on a daily basis.

The FEI HorseApp will be updated with new modules which will allow for enhanced traceability as part of the EHV-1 Return To Competition measures. These will be launched in the second week of April.

The Return To Competition measures, which clearly outline roles and responsibilities, are available online and for download in the dedicated EHV-1 hub. Additional documentation will be added in the coming days.

How to Watch the Elite Eventing Action at Oasby Tomorrow

By US Equestrian Press Release on Mar 21, 2021 10:00 am -

Piggy March and Vanir Kamira. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Many of the world’s leading event riders are set to converge on Oasby in the UK for their Elite event on Monday, March 22.

Organised by the team at BEDE Events, Oasby Elite attracts major names in the sport and Horse & Country will live stream more than five hours of action from the cross-country phase.

Riders making their way to the Lincolnshire event include 2020 Pau 5* winner, Laura Collet and London 52, Burghley winners, Pippa Funnell and MGH Grafton Street along with Piggy March, Tom McEwen and Ros Canter. The line-up is second to none with many riders bringing their top horses to take part in the Open Intermediate section and get their season underway.

The stream starts at 7:30 a.m. EST/11:30 a.m. BST on Monday and will run until around 1 p.m. EST/5 p.m. BST with the cross-country course designed to give riders and horses a good “pipe opener” as they start their competition campaign. Well-known commentator and international rider, Spencer Sturmey, will bring the action to life as riders make their way around Stuart Buntine’s cross-country course.

H&C Director of Content, Jonathan Rippon said: “We are delighted to be live streaming Oasby Elite. It will be a real feast for eventing fans to be able to see so many of the country’s major stars in action throughout the Monday afternoon. It is brilliant to get live stream coverage from the UK underway and showcase what a magical sport eventing is to our worldwide audience. We will also be live streaming Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event in April and hope to announce more upcoming live streaming from other events as they get confirmed.”

To watch the live stream, make sure you are signed up to H&C+, Horse & Country’s worldwide streaming service. H&C+ members can watch online or with H&C’s mobile apps, as well as on Roku, Apple TV, Android TV, and Amazon Fire. Membership is just £5.99 per month and full details on how to join can be found at horseandcountry.tv.

Oasby Elite: [Schedule and Entries]

Friends of Ferdinand, Inc. Launches New Broodmare Pilot Program

By US Equestrian Press Release on Mar 17, 2021 3:30 pm -

Stock image.

Friends of Ferdinand, Inc. (FFI) is thrilled to announce the launch of their new pilot program called Broodmare Bunch. This program is an expansion of FFI’s current mission to rehab, retrain, and rehome Thoroughbreds directly off the track after their racing careers. Broodmare Bunch will be open to Thoroughbred mares who have been pensioned from broodmare duty as part of the horseracing breeding industry. The program will assist potentially at-risk broodmares in finding homes after their breeding careers have ended.

“While there are many organizations that assist horses fresh from the racetrack, there are very few that have a program dedicated to the broodmares. This is an unmet need,” says FFI President Sara Busbice. “Anything from fertility issues, difficulty foaling, lack of successful racing offspring, or downsizing a herd can cause a broodmare to be removed from a breeding farm, often at a young enough age that she could go on to have a terrific ‘third’ career after her jobs on the racetrack and as a mother are over.”

Trainer Lori Miller, who runs Greenstone Stables where many of FFI’s horses live during their retraining, expressed her excitement about FFI expanding into this new realm of the Thoroughbred industry. “We would certainly be fulfilling an industry need by adding broodmares to our roster,” she says. “Diversifying our herd will give us the ability to have more horses available for different levels of potential adopters. We are looking forward to expanding our existing program by bringing these new horses into our barn!”

The pilot program for FFI’s Broodmare Bunch is launching in March 2021. Individuals or farms interested in submitting a broodmare for consideration into the program can do so by filling out a “Donate a Horse” form on the Friends of Ferdinand website. A limited, select number of broodmares will be accepted into the program initially. Preference will be given to horses with connections to racing or breeding in Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky.

As the only Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance-accredited program in Indiana, FFI is dedicated to assisting off-track Thoroughbreds transition to their second or third careers. The program has TAA-accredited farms around Indiana and Ohio as rehabilitation and retraining facilities for Off-Track Thoroughbreds, and these will also be available for mares that are part of the Broodmare Bunch.

The Broodmare Bunch is funded in part by groups and individuals donating to FFI. One of the first, and largest, benefactors of the Broodmare Bunch is the Indiana Thoroughbred Alliance (ITA). ITA is a collaboration of breeders, owners, trainers, and horse-racing enthusiasts dedicated to the continued success of Thoroughbred breeding and racing in the state of Indiana. Their donation of $5,000 will help to launch the program. The money was raised from ITA’s first stallion service auction in December.

“As passionate breeders in Indiana, we know how important it is to not only find second careers for our racehorses, but also for our broodmares,” says Christine Cagle, owner of Springcliff Farm and ITA board member. “The ITA is not only dedicated to the promotion of horse racing in Indiana, but also to the transition of second, or third, careers for our Thoroughbreds. This partnership was a no-brainer.”

Photo courtesy of Friends of Ferdinand.

To learn more about the Broodmare Bunch program, visit the Friends of Ferdinand website. If resources for these broodmares are important to you, and you want to support Broodmare Bunch or get involved, you can direct your questions and comments to [email protected]. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to support this new program, you can do so securely through the Friends of Ferdinand website.

For more updates on this exciting new expansion of Friends of Ferdinand’s retraining program, and to learn about the mares that will be accepted into the pilot program of Broodmare Bunch and eventually listed for adoption, follow FFI on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay in the loop.

Friends of Ferdinand, Inc. (FFI) is a 501c3 nonprofit equine organization that is dedicated to retired racehorses, and the only organization in Indiana that is accredited by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA). Graduates from the FFI program have gone on to have success in eventing, dressage, calf-roping, western riding, trail riding, as hunter/jumpers, and as therapy horses.

Woods Baughman to Receive USET Foundation Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant

By US Equestrian Press Release on Mar 16, 2021 11:30 am -

Woods Baughman and C’est La Vie 135. Photo by Abby Powell.

The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation has named Woods Baughman of Lexington, Ky., as the recipient of the 2021 Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant. Baughman is a current member of the US Equestrian 2021 Eventing High Performance Pre-Elite Training List.

As the recipient of the grant, Baughman will receive up to $5,000 to help offset expenses associated with his training over the next year.

“I can’t thank the USET Foundation and the people involved with this grant enough,” stated Baughman, 25. “You can never have enough training, and I’ll certainly put this to good use.

“It can be hard trying to put yourself in the right place without having enough financial backing to get the training and support that will help the rider and horses improve,” he continued. “Having good eyes on you is important because there is always something you’re missing. It’s huge to have this help and not have to worry about if I can make this happen.”

Baughman plans to use the grant to support training with his horse C’est La Vie 135, a 13-year-old Hanoverian gelding (Contendro I x Aarking xx).

“C’est La Vie is at the top of the sport and I think if I can polish him, he’s really world class,” explained Baughman. “Anything and everything I can do to fill my gaps [in training] so that I can show off the horse I am lucky to ride is worth it.”

The USET Foundation Amanda Pirie Warrington Fund allocates the Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant annually. Pirie’s family established the fund in her memory for the purpose of providing financial assistance to an eventing athlete identified with great talent and ability to represent the United States in the future. It is intended for a recipient that will benefit most from the opportunity to continue their training with top coaches and to compete against the world’s best in eventing, one of three Olympic equestrian disciplines.

Thanks to the Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant, Baughman can continue to focus on his training and prepare for competitions, helping to reach his goal of representing the United States on the international stage.

2021 Carolina International Will Stream Exclusively on Horse & Country TV

By US Equestrian Press Release on Mar 16, 2021 9:00 am -

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Fernhill By Night. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Horse & Country (H&C), the international equestrian sports network, is pleased to announce exclusive coverage of the 2021 Carolina International on its streaming service, H&C+ from the 18th to the 20th of March. With the event closed to the public, in line with USEF and FEI guidelines, H&C+ members can still enjoy the action from one of the most prestigious three-day events in the calendar.

Viewers will be able to watch all three phases from the 4*, as well as the Showjumping and Cross Country from the 3*. Riders confirmed include Will Coleman, Phillip Dutton, Will Faudree, Clayton Fredericks and Liz Halliday-Sharp. With an Ian Stark designed Cross Country course, it’s set to be a fascinating competition as combinations set their sights on Kentucky.

“We’re delighted to be streaming the Carolina International,” said H&C Executive Producer, David Qualls. “Our coverage will ensure that, notwithstanding the closed doors, the event reaches the widest possible audience in 2021.”

H&C+ members can watch online or with H&C’s mobile apps, as well as on Roku, Apple TV, Android TV, and Amazon Fire. Membership is just $9.99 per month and full details on how to join can be found at horseandcountry.tv.

Over and above H&C’s extensive sports coverage, members also get access to over 1,600 hours of programming, including Masterclasses by Will Faudree and Will Coleman, and episodes of H&C’s Barn Talk series featuring profiles of both Wills and Liz Halliday-Sharp.

Retired Racehorse Project Presents $5,000 Highpoint Thoroughbred Award at 2021 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing

By US Equestrian Press Release on Mar 12, 2021 1:00 pm -

Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration, winners of the Retired Racehorse Project Highpoint Thoroughbred Award at LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing, Bruce’s Field, Aiken, SC. Photo by Chris Quinn.

The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) proudly presented the $5,000 Highpoint Thoroughbred Award at the 2021 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field in Aiken, SC on Saturday, March 6. Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration took top honors as the highest-placed Thoroughbred, with Colleen Rutledge and Confidence Game coming in second.

The Highpoint Thoroughbred Award was first introduced at the 2020 Grand-Prix Eventing, and the Retired Racehorse Project continued the tradition thanks to the contributions of Dr. Kevin Pfiester of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Dr. Stuart E. Brown of Brownstead Farm, Dr. Andy Clark and Kathleen Sullivan, and Dr. Rebecca Newell and William Griffin. The RRP’s board president Carolyn Karlson was on hand to present the award.

RRP board president Carolyn Karlson, Holly Jacks-Smither, Dr. Rebecca Newell. Photo by Chris Quinn.

“Showcasing Thoroughbred competing successfully at the highest levels of equestrian sport goes a long way in increasing demand for them in the equestrian world,” said the RRP’s executive director Jen Roytz. “The RRP was proud to support this year’s Highpoint Thoroughbred Award, along with Dr. Kevin Pfiester, Dr. Stuart Brown, Dr. Andy Clark and Kathleen Sullivan, and Dr. Rebecca Newell and William Griffin. All of us are thrilled to shine a light on More Inspiration, Confidence Game, and their talented riders in this way.”

Holly Jacks-Smither’s More Inspiration is a 16-year-old Ontario-bred gelding bred by Display Farm, by Inspired Prospect out of the Buckley Boy mare Gentle Buck. He made 28 starts in Ontario, winning four for total career earnings of $55,560. With strong ties to the racing industry — Jacks-Smither started galloping racehorses at age 12 and her husband is a racing trainer — it’s fitting that she has taken an off-track Thoroughbred to the highest levels of eventing.

Holly Jacks-Smither and More Inspiration, winners of the Retired Racehorse Project Highpoint Thoroughbred Award at LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing, Bruce’s Field, Aiken, SC. Photo by Chris Quinn.

“I grew up riding Thoroughbreds and that’s essentially almost all I’ve ever ridden, so it’s amazing to have the Retired Racehorse Project getting behind these horses!” stated Jacks-Smither. “It’s always special to have one you produced yourself come up through the levels, especially More Inspiration — he’s the horse that made my career.”

Taking home the second prize for the Highpoint Thoroughbred Award, Confidence Game is Jockey Club-registered as Pam’s Luc, an 11-year-old Arkansas-bred stallion bred by Richard Hessee. Confidence Game is by Morluc out of the Brief Ruckus mare Pam’s Ruckus. Colleen Rutledge sourced the horse through Three Plain Bays, a private Thoroughbred reseller based in Maryland.

Colleen Rutledge and Confidence Game (JC: Pam’s Luc), second place in the Retired Racehorse Project Highpoint Thoroughbred Award at LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing, Bruce’s Field, Aiken, SC. Photo by Chris Quinn.

“I’m so proud of Confidence Game and how he handled the weekend,” described Rutledge. “This was the toughest course he’s ever seen from a visual aspect. Thoroughbreds have such great heart, and he gave me everything I could have asked from him on the cross-country and show jumping.”

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 organization also publishes Off-Track Thoroughbred Magazine, hosts off-track Thoroughbred retraining clinics and programming at major horse expos and events around the country, and maintains the online Thoroughbred Sport Tracker (the internet’s only user-driven database tracking second career talents and accomplishments of registered Thoroughbreds). Visit the RRP online at TheRRP.org.

FEI Extends Mainland Europe Shutdowns Through April 11

By US Equestrian Press Release on Mar 12, 2021 12:03 pm -

Embed from Getty Images

The FEI has imposed a further two-week extension of the shutdown of all international events in mainland Europe until April 11, 2021 due to the ongoing outbreak of the neurological form of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1). The FEI had previously announced a 28-day shutdown on March 1.

The move, which aims to minimize the further spread of the very aggressive strain of the virus, was unanimously approved at an emergency FEI Executive Board meeting today. The extended lockdown applies to all FEI disciplines.

The decision is based on detailed scientific risk assessment conducted by world leading epidemiologist Dr. Richard Newton and the FEI Veterinary Department.

The extended lockdown applies to all countries that have international scheduled events in the period to 11 April – Austria, Belgium, Spain, Estonia, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal and Sweden. However, the FEI again strongly recommends that all National Federations in mainland Europe cancel their national events in order to minimize horse movement.

The shutdown will mean the cancellation of the FEI World Cup™ Finals for the second consecutive year following the loss of the 2020 Finals in Las Vegas (USA) to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final and the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final were scheduled to be held in Gothenburg (SWE) from March 31 through April 4.

“The extension of the lockdown is difficult for everyone, and the loss of the FEI World Cup Finals for a second year is particularly devastating, especially for the qualified athletes and for our loyal Top Partner Longines,” FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said. “We know how much work Tomas Torgersen and his incredible team in Gothenburg have put into organizing the 2021 Finals, which would have been part of the 400th birthday anniversary celebrations for the city, so this is a desperately bitter blow.

“We cannot eradicate EHV as it is endemic in many countries, but we need to work together to minimize the transmission of this particular strain, which has already caused the death of 12 horses in Europe. All of the original in-contact horses from Valencia, Vejer de la Frontera and Doha are already blocked on the FEI Database, but the whole community needs to be on the alert and monitoring their horses. We strongly urge all European-based FEI athletes to avoid travel with their horses during this prolonged shutdown, as travel is a very clear risk factor.

“Sadly this additional lockdown is crucial to slow down the spread of the virus so that we can preserve the rest of the season, get our athletes and horses back competing safely and allow as long a period as possible for those aiming for Tokyo to earn their Minimum Eligibility Requirements and confirmation results, and of course to prepare their horses for the Games.

“Nobody wants to see an outbreak like this ever again. There will be a comprehensive and fully transparent investigation into every aspect of this outbreak and the way it has been handled, and the findings will be published so that, together with our community, we can all learn from this.

“We will be putting in place enhanced protocols to allow for a safe return to play once this outbreak is under control, and we will advise our community on those well in advance of the resumption of international events, but the priority right now has to be the treatment of sick horses and getting healthy horses back to their home countries in a safe and biosecure way. We all need to focus on safeguarding not just FEI horses, but the wider European horse community.”

Work on identifying the gene sequencing of this strain of the virus is already underway, and the FEI is continuing to monitor the evolution of the virus through the FEI Veterinary Epidemiology Working Group, which was formalized this week. The Group is composed of world-leading EHV specialists, the FEI Veterinary Director and FEI Senior Veterinary Advisor, supported by the Chair of the FEI Veterinary Committee. Reports and recommendations from this Group will be published on a weekly basis.

The FEI is also publishing daily updates on the dedicated EHV-1 hub. You can read more updates on EHV-1 cases in the U.S. (which at this time have not been linked to the European outbreak) here.

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