View Classifieds
Articles Written 573
Article Views 632,861

US Equestrian Press Release

Achievements

Become an Eventing Nation Blogger

About US Equestrian Press Release

Latest Articles Written

Big Rewards for Mark Davidson at Burgham

By on Jul 28, 2023 2:17 pm -

Mark Davidson and Fonbherna Lancer. Photo by Peter Nixon for Burgham International Horse Trials.

Cumbrian-born rider Mark Davidson scored by far the biggest payday of his career to date today when taking section A of the AW Jenkinson CCI3*-S at Burgham International Horse Trials on Fonbherna Lancer. Mark’s Burgham victory means he wins a £7,000 bonus for scoring in two legs of the Northumberland Challenge – the big-money prize-pot that unites the county’s three international events (Belsay, Alnwick Ford and Burgham).

Mark won on the The Round Table Syndicate’s 13-year-old grey last month at Alnwick Ford, and pulled off this second win at Burgham against a highly competitive field of top riders.

“It’s amazing – it’s not every day you win £7,000 and it goes a long way! I was reminded when I was warming up for showjumping that I probably won’t get to ride for prize-money like this again for another decade,” joked a delighted Mark, 30. “‘Lance’ was completely brilliant. He pricks his ears, says ‘Look at me’. We are still a new partnership – I managed to get a syndicate together to buy him for me to ride in the spring – and I was so pleased with him. He’s a total gentleman and a lovely horse to have anything to do with.”

Mark, who is based at leading rider Piggy March’s Northamptonshire yard, led the dressage on an impressive score of 21.1, showjumped clear and just picked up 1.2 time-penalties across country. His winning margin over second-placed Tom Jackson (Dazzling Intuition) was 7.8 marks.

Belsay organiser Laura de Wesselow, who started the Northumberland Challenge in 2022, said: “I am absolutely delighted for Mark Davidson and the Round Table Syndicate’s Fonbherna Lancer. We started the Northumberland Challenge last year across the CCI2*-S events at Belsay, Alnwick Ford and Burgham and extended it this year to the CCI3*-S with a total available prize pot of £45,000 generously provided by our sponsors, AW Jenkinson Forest Products (for the CCI3*-S) and Encon Technical Solutions Ltd and NIS Group Ltd (for the CCI2*-S).  The whole idea of the Challenge is to encourage owners and riders, both amateur and professional, to make the journey north to our fabulous venues in Northumberland and we look forward to seeing more of them up here in 2024.”

Section B of the AW Jenkinson CCI3*-S at Burgham went to Tokyo Olympics gold medallist Laura Collett, riding the Ace of Spades Syndicate’s eight-year-old Fetiche Des Rouges.

Laura said: “He’s a little pocket rocket! I’m stand-in jockey for [Irish rider] Aoife Clark, who is injured – I’d prefer to be full-time jockey, because he’s so cool. I have had four runs now in quick succession to try to get used to him; he’s a bit of a cheeky chap, but he’s really come out and been a little professional here. He gallops like a thoroughbred but jumps like a warmblood, which is really nice! Today we felt like a proper partnership.”

The pair finished on a score of 33.3, while second-placed combination Arthur Duffort and JSC Bucket List completed on 37.

In the feature Holme Dodsworth Metals CCI4*-S, Ros Canter has held on to her day one lead on Izilot DHI in section C with a mark of 26, a fraction ahead of Piggy March and the grey stallion Halo on 26.2.

Oliver Townend and Ballaghmor Class, part of Britain’s gold medal-winning team at the Tokyo Olympics and already dual winners of this class at Burgham, are in pole position in section D on 24.4. Again, Piggy March is 0.2 of a penalty behind, this time on Coolparks Sarco.

Showjumping and cross-country for the CCI4*-S classes start tomorrow (Saturday, 29 July). Visitors can enjoy a great variety of tradestands and locally produced food and drink while they are watching the sporting action – and there’s even a fun dog show on Saturday and Sunday to raise money for Burgham’s supported charity, the British Eventing Support Trust (BEST).

Burgham is thrilled to welcome Project Pony as its supporting partner for 2023. This new initiative aims to identify and support up-and-coming young riders by giving them the opportunity to compete on elite event ponies.

To buy tickets and for more information, please visit burghaminternationalhorsetrials.co.uk. Tickets will also be available to purchase on the gate.

If you can’t make it to Burgham, Horse & Country TV will be streaming the cross-country on both Saturday and Sunday – horseandcountry.tv.

Fred Scala Enjoys Champagne Moment on Corriebeg Supernova at Hickstead

By on Jul 27, 2023 3:21 pm -

Fred Scala and Corriebeg Supernova tackle the Hickstead bank. Photo by Boots and Hooves Photography.

Ireland’s Fred Scala produced a masterful round on Corriebeg Supernova to win today’s Ashby Underwriting Eventers’ Challenge at the Longines Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead, England, while last year’s victor Gemma Stevens had to settle for second and third place.

It was the first time Fred had taken part in the class, though he has always wanted to compete at Hickstead – the iconic English venue that also plays host to June’s Hickstead Derby and tomorrow’s FEI Jumping Nations Cup.

“I wanted to do this class forever growing up. It was always a highlight on the telly, so it’s just been a dream to compete. When I got the opportunity to come here, I knew I had a little horse that I knew could be fast and careful, and if there was a class that she was going to be good at, it would be this one,” says the 34-year-old rider, who is from Co Carlow but is now based in Derbyshire.

Although Fred incurred a four second penalty for knocking the second part of the Devil’s Dyke, he crossed the line in a time of 128.84 seconds to go into the lead. The course incorporates many of the Hickstead arena’s iconic features, including a sideways route up the famous bank.

“There was a lot of questions that she’d never had to answer before, particularly the bank – so two before I went, I started to get a little nervous about it – so I actually had to ask Gemma whether or not she had gone off the steep one and still been in the lead. I thought she’d gone long. She said she jumped off the steep one, so that was that!”

 

Fred Scala and Corriebeg Supernova. Photo by Boots and Hooves Photography.

“It was just great fun, and such a fun class – fast, a great course, the ground was amazing, the atmosphere was amazing, and the crowd was amazing. The horse just really moved up a gear and answered everything. I was very nervous walking the open ditch – that’s a long distance and she’s only 15.2, so I thought, ‘Jesus, will I have to try and fit two in here?”

For a moment it looked like defending champions Gemma Stevens and Flash Cooley, last to go, might knock Fred off the top spot – but when she also picked up a four second time penalty at the final fence, her time of 129.59 seconds relegated her to second place. She also produced the fastest round of the day on her other ride, the Burghley top-ten finisher Santiago Bay, but with two fences down they finished on a total time of 130.52 seconds.

“Bless Flash Cooley – yesterday [the show’s organisers] said to me, ‘do you want to ride two?’ And I said, ‘yeah – but I’ve got to go home and give him a jump, because he’s actually not jumped since Aachen!’ I was jumping him at half-past seven last night,” says Gemma with a laugh. “He’s quite a careful little horse, and he always tries so hard, so I actually jump him quite often at home so he stays really confident. So I think he was just a little bit out of practice, but he’s still game, and he was still absolutely brilliant. I just had a bit of a galloping one at the last and he said ‘ooh, I’m a bit out of practice, maybe I’ll put down’ – I wish I’d looked up at the clock and taken a pull because I’d have been alright!”

Gemma remained philosophical at missing out on back-to-back titles. “It’s not a bad day in the office, taking second and third – and it never gets old going in that arena. I’ve been incredibly lucky over the last couple of years and I’ve had plenty of spins round there in different classes, and honest to God, it never gets old cantering up the chute into the main arena. It’s just awesome,” she said.

Fred gave effusive thanks to the organisers and sponsors of this popular eventing showcase. “It was just great fun, and such a fun class – fast, a great course, the ground was amazing, the atmosphere was amazing, and the crowd was amazing,” he said.

US Equestrian Board of Directors Approves Amendment to Protective Headgear Rule

By on Jul 26, 2023 10:00 am -

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

During a special meeting of the US Equestrian Board of Directors on July 24, the Board approved an amendment to the protective headgear certification rule change, which was originally approved during the Mid-Year Board meeting in June (click here). With this amendment, the rule change will have an effective date of August 1, 2023.

This rule change expands the list of acceptable international testing standards for equestrian protective headgear, allowing more helmet and headgear options for competitors at USEF licensed competitions. By moving the effective date up to August 1, 2023 (from its original effective date of December 1, 2023), competitors can take advantage of the expanded options almost immediately rather than waiting until the start of the 2024 competition year.

“The expanded options that will be available to competitors at USEF national competitions is consistent with the FEI standards and clarifies other international testing standards that meet or exceed the ASTM standards,” stated Dr. Stephanie Bonin, Principal and Senior Biomechanical Engineer at MEA Forensic Engineers & Scientists and Chair of ASTM Equestrian Helmet Task Group.

The rule change intent was “To include SNELL Foundation as an acceptable helmet certification along with ASTM for use in USEF Competition. The FEI recognizes the Snell Foundation helmet certification as acceptable protective headgear.” The approval of this change now adds SNELL ratings to the list of currently approved rating systems for equestrian helmet. The Snell Foundation was established in 1957 to memorialize amateur racer Pete Snell after he died of head injury during an auto racing event. The Foundation created its own rating system for equestrian helmets which can be found here. The updated list of acceptable ratings systems can be found here.

Additionally, the list of accepted international testing standards and corresponding certified quality control labels for equestrian protective headgear have been posted on the USEF website rather than within the USEF Rule Book to allow for making future updates to the list without having to undergo the timeline associated with the rule change process. Click here to reference the International Test Standards list.

If you have any questions about this rule change or the types of protective headgear approved for use at USEF licensed competitions, please contact Katlynn Wilbers at [email protected].

All Systems Go for a Brilliant Burgham

By on Jul 25, 2023 12:00 pm -

Reigning World Champions Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir compete at Burgham in 2022. Photo by Rupert Gibson Photography.

With the largest number of entries in the event’s history and perfect conditions underfoot, Burgham International Horse Trials 2023 (July 26-30) looks set to be the best yet.

Riders from every continent with the exception of Antarctica will be competing at Burgham, and they encompass 20 different countries as far-flung as Norway, Namibia, Morocco, China, India and Argentina alongside the most customary USA, Australia, New Zealand and mainland Europe.

Once again, Burgham – Northern England’s premier equestrian event – has a star-studded cast. British Tokyo Olympics gold medallists Laura Collett and Oliver Townend will face serious opposition from the 2023 Badminton CCI5* winner Ros Canter, 2022 Burghley CCI5* heroine Piggy March and reigning World Champion Yasmin Ingham, among many others. There is also a large contingent of Irish competitors targeting Burgham this year, headed by World Championship team silver medallists Padraig McCarthy and Sarah Ennis.

Burgham commences on Wednesday, July 26 with international dressage and the popular Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse qualifiers for four- and five-year-old horses. There is cross-country to watch every day from Thursday to Sunday; the feature CCI4*-S sections, sponsored by Holme Dodsworth Metals, take centre stage on Saturday, July 29.

Grassroots competitors have plenty of opportunities to compete alongside the most famous riders in the sport of eventing with British Riding Clubs senior and junior team jumping on Saturday, and showing and dressage classes for thoroughbreds and ex-racehorses on Sunday, July 30.

Visitors can enjoy a great variety of tradestands and locally produced food and drink while they are watching the sporting action – and there’s even a fun dog show on Saturday and Sunday to raise money for Burgham’s supported charity, the British Eventing Support Trust (BEST).

Burgham is thrilled to welcome Project Pony as its supporting partner for 2023. This new initiative aims to identify and support up-and-coming young riders by giving them the opportunity to compete on elite event ponies.

Burgham is the final leg of the Northumberland Challenge. Sponsored by AW Jenkinson Forest Products, Encon Technical Solutions and NIS Group Ltd, the 2023 Northumberland Challenge offers horse and rider combinations entering the CCI2*-S and CCI3*-S classes at Belsay, Alnwick Ford and Burgham the opportunity to win cash bonuses of up to £20,000 for the CCI2*-S and £25,000 for the CCI3*-S, totalling £45,000. Who will take home the cheques at the end of this weekend…? Oliver Townend has high hopes of CCI2*-S bonus money, while Oliver, Mark Davidson and Yasmin Ingham also have chances of collecting CCI3*-S cash.

Event Director Craig Anderson said: “Burgham is an incredibly special event, and our huge number of very high-quality entries prove how much riders and owners love to come to it. This is top-class eventing in an intimate, relaxed and friendly atmosphere in the heart of Northumberland – who wouldn’t love it?! We look forward to welcoming lots of spectators – there’s so much for them to see and enjoy.”

You’ll be able to follow Burgham International live using your Horse & Country viewing pass or subscription. Click here to bookmark the live stream page for this event.

Burgham International: [Website] [Entries/Timing/Scoring] [Live Stream]

Hong Kong Fields Record Squad of 11 Combinations (5 Eventers!) for 2023 Asian Games

By on Jul 22, 2023 10:00 am -

The Hong Kong Jockey Club is pleased to announce that nine athletes (11 rider-horse combinations) supported by the Club will represent Hong Kong, China at the 19th Asian Games to be held in Hangzhou from September to October this year. This is the largest equestrian squad Hong Kong, China has ever sent to the games. All of the athletes are members of the HKJC Equestrian Team and have benefited from high-level coaching and professional support provided by the Club under the Hong Kong Equestrian Performance Plan.

Here’s a look at the riders named to represent Hong Kong:

For the sport of eventing, a full team of four and one reserve combination will travel to Hangzhou. It’s a group of riders with a large amount of experience at the Asian Games and beyond, largely based in Europe or the UK full-time.

Two horses are owned by the Hong Kong Jockey Club: the Irish-bred 10-year-old Jockey Club Miss Matana (OBOS Quality 004 – Rienroe Ashbrook) and Jockey Club Highdown March (Jaguar Mail – Valentina II), who was purchased from Piggy and Tom March’s program and is a half-brother on the dam side (Valentina competed through the 5* level with Richard Jones) to the Burghley 4-year-old Young Event Horse champion Cupid March. His rider, Olympian Patrick Lam, is also competing on the show jumping team with Claron CR — this is the discipline in which Patrick has ridden at the Olympics (2008).

Another rider competing in two disciplines is Annie Ho, whose preferred second sport is dressage. She’ll ride Jockey Club Miss Matana in the eventing and Southern Cross Braemar in the dressage competition at the Asian Games. Annie is an experienced Asian Games competitor, winning team bronze in Incheon (KOR) in 2014 and otherwise competing in two other Games as well as coming first overall in the 2013 FEI Asia Eventing Championships.

You can also read a profile we published on Yu Xuan Su here. He’ll partner with the 14-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding Spypark Ferro XS, owned by longtime supporter Howard Green for his second trip to the Asian Games.

Daniella Lin will compete in her first major Championship with A Sparkling Bellini, with whom she has done all of her international eventing to date. After first catching the horse bug at a summer camp hosted by the HKJC when she was 11, she quickly got involved in riding through Hong Kong’s Lo Wu Saddle Club and now at the age of 20 bases in the UK with her “horse of a lifetime”, A Sparkling Bellini.

Called up on reserve for the eventing squad will be UK-based Nicole Pearson and James and Nicole Pearson and Pacific Risk Advisors’ Hanerina SSF. Nicole is a three-time Asian Games competitor, earning team bronze alongside Annie Ho in 2014.

The equestrian events of the 19th Asian Games will be held at the Tonglu Equestrian Centre in Hangzhou from September 26 to October 6. A team of nine athletes will represent Hong Kong, China in dressage, eventing and show jumping competitions. This is the first time the team will be competing in both the individual and team competitions in all three disciplines. 3 competition horses for the team are also being provided by the Club.

Club Chairman and President of the Equestrian Federation of Hong Kong, China, Michael Lee congratulated the riders. “Hong Kong equestrian sport has come a long way in a very short space of time and this owes a great deal to the hard work of riders as well as to the support of The Hong Kong Jockey Club. My sincere congratulations to the entire team.”

“The 19th Asian Games will be a wonderful showcase for Hangzhou and for Hong Kong’s riding talent. The Club is delighted to provide its professional support for the organisation of the equestrian events and to support Hong Kong, China equestrian team. I look forward to an outstanding games and to great performances from Team Hong Kong, China,” said Club Chief Executive Officer Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Equestrian Performance Manager, Corinne Bracken will be the Chef d’Equipe of the Hong Kong, China team at the 19th Asian Games. To support athletes and horses, the Club is sending a specialist support team to Hangzhou including coaches, grooms, veterinarians, farriers and physiotherapists for both athletes and horses.

In addition, under a Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Club and the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou 2022 Organising Committee, the Club will provide technical support for the equestrian events in six functional areas, namely biosecurity, horse transportation, stable management, veterinary and farriery services, venue operations and international stakeholder management.

Members of the HKJC Equestrian team have represented Hong Kong, China at past Asian Games, winning back-to-back medals since 2010. They include Jacqueline Siu, who won Hong Kong’s first ever equestrian gold medal in Individual Dressage in Jakarta in 2018; Annie Ho, Thomas Ho and Nicole Pearson, who won a Team Eventing Bronze medal in Incheon in 2014; and Patrick Lam, Jacqueline Lai, Kenneth Cheng and Samantha Lam, who won a Team Jumping Bronze medal in Guangzhou in 2010.

The Club is a long-standing supporter of equestrian sport, both through its public riding schools and through the HKJC Equestrian Team and Junior Equestrian Training Squad (JETS), established following the Beijing 2008 Olympics to develop the potential of Hong Kong, China’s elite riders. Under the Hong Kong Equestrian Performance Plan launched in 2016, equestrian and para equestrian riders benefit from high-level coaching and professional support services. Support for youth athletes is provided through the HKJC Youth Equestrian Development Programme (previously JETS), run in collaboration with the Equestrian Federation of Hong Kong, China and the Hong Kong Sports Institute. In 2022, the Club expanded this programme with the addition of a Mainland squad, which supports young talented Hong Kong athletes who are based full time in the Mainland.

Applications Open for First Annual Annie Goodwin Rising Star Grant

By on Jul 15, 2023 10:00 am -

Annie Goodwin and Fedarman B. Photo by Christine Quinn Photography.

After raising $135,000 in donations and support, the Annie Goodwin Rising Star Grant is officially open for its first round of applications. This grant was established in partnership with the Aiken Horse Park Foundation and Annie’s family. The grant will be awarded to a recipient who meets grant criteria in the amount of $20,000 for 2023. Riders who meet the following criteria are welcome to apply:

The Annie Goodwin Rising Star Grant provides financial support for young professional equestrians establishing the early years of their business and wishing to continue their equestrian education and competition.

All applicants must be:

  • Professional member in good standing with their respective national governing body
  • US citizen or legal resident
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Reside in Aiken, SC for a minimum of three (3) months annually
  • Between the ages of eighteen (18) and thirty (30) years of age by January thirty-one (31) of application year

The Annie Goodwin Rising Star was founded in memory of Annie Goodwin, who passed away in a riding accident in 2022. Her memory lives on throughout the Aiken and eventing worldwide community, and in the continued career of her upper-level horse, Fedarman B. With Boyd Martin in the irons and supported by the Annie Goodwin Syndicate, Fedarman B made a successful debut at the CCI5* level at Luhmühlen in June, finishing inside the top 10.

Annie’s parents, Tina and Putter played an integral role in the development of the grant application. They spent numerous hours side by side the AHPF staff, crafting a meaningful application that was representative of Annie’s spirit and ambition. It is their desire that this grant provide eligible young professionals a leg up to establish a successful and sustainable business in their sport.

While we take this time today to remember Annie, we also pause to reflect and celebrate the life of her mother Tina McLanahan Goodwin who passed away on May 22, 2023. Thirty-five years of Rheumatoid Arthritis, fusions, surgeries and other health issues finally took its toll. She had a brilliant mind, a follower of science, respecter and lover of all animals, gardener, swimmer and sailor. In her prime, she rode fast, ran fast, skied the steep and climbed the tall. Tina was a devoted Mom, wife, sister, aunt and the best friend you could ever ask for. She is dearly missed by all that knew her.

Applications for this grant will be reviewed by a committee of individuals with close ties to Annie herself. The committee includes:

  • Daniel Geitner – AHPF board member, Hunter/Jumper Professional
  • Putter Goodwin – Annie’s dad
  • Gene “Tiger” Kneece – Polo Professional
  • Boyd Martin – Olympian, Eventing Professional
  • Catherine Stumberg – Hunter/Jumper Amateur
  • Caitlin Silliman – Eventing Professional
  • Robert “Bobby” Stevenson – FEI Judge, Eventing Professional

Each Member of the selection committee had a strong connection to Annie that transcended sport, friendship, and family. Together with a thoughtfully crafted application, the committee is poised to successfully chose a worthy candidate.

To learn more and submit an application for the Annie Goodwin Rising Star Grant, click here. On that page, you can also choose to make a donation to further the Rising Star Grant’s future. Applications are due on September 30, 2023.

A Sporting Weekend in the Country at Millbrook Horse Trials

By on Jul 14, 2023 12:25 pm -

Allison Springer & Business Ben. Photo by Abby Powell.

While riders enjoy the top class competition at the 2023 Millbrook Horse Trials (July 26–30), spectators, sponsors and volunteers are also in for a treat. Social events at the summer horse trials in picturesque Dutchess County, NY have long been an attraction and this year promises something for everyone.

General admission and parking is free of charge. Family entertainment includes the vendor village and weekend Millbrook Market, as well as food trucks featuring a variety of cuisines. A petting zoo and arts and crafts tent are sure to keep young children entertained.

Zoe Crawford and K.E.C Zara at Millbrook. Photo by Abby Powell.

Tailgating is available during cross country, with each space comfortably accommodating 10 people. Bring your own tent, chairs and picnic and show your personal style, or enjoy delicious cuisine from our food trucks and the Simply Gourmet concession tent. For a refreshing cocktail, the elegantly converted horse trailer bar The Fizzy Filly will be conveniently located next to the tailgating area.

Enjoy giving back to the sport that you love? Plenty of volunteer opportunities are still available, from shuttle drivers to cross country jump judges. For more information visit the Millbrook website. A welcome party for competitors and volunteers takes place Friday evening, sponsored by Purina and Triple Crown.

Millbrook is one of the few remaining horse trials in the Northeast. It is by far the largest, and it is the only one that still runs all levels through Advanced. The event typically attracts world-class equestrians as well as grassroots competitors. The Millbrook area is characterized by large areas of open farmland and has a strong equestrian tradition. It boasts a local Pony Club, thriving foxhunt and active polo club, and is home to riders of all types. The Horse Trials features natural cross country courses over preserved countryside, world-class competition, first-class social events, and entertainment for the whole family.

For sponsors and patrons, social events include a Saturday morning brunch at the Yellowframe Farm Waterview tent, overlooking the water complex during upper-level cross country, and a Sunday luncheon in private ringside tents overlooking the show jumping arena, where the culmination of the competition can be viewed in style.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Sponsors this year include Yellowframe Farm, Goldman Sachs Gives, Danbury Porsche and Audi, Taylor Harris Insurance, HW Guernsey at Compass, Bank of Millbrook, Purina, Triple Crown, Millbrook Equine, and Millerton Agway as well as numerous families, farms and individual patrons. For more information visit www.millbrookhorsetrials.com.

 

Lauren Billys Shady Takes Special Gold for Puerto Rico in San Salvador

By on Jul 10, 2023 10:00 am -

Puerto Rico took their first-ever international gold medal in thrilling style at the Central American and Caribbean Games in San Salvador.

Two-time Olympian Lauren Shady stormed to eventing gold with Can Be Sweet, finishing ahead of Mexico’s Luis Ariel Santiago Franco and Fernando Parroquin Delfin.

Mexico took Team Gold ahead of Colombia and the Centro Caribe Sports representative team at the multi-sport event in El Salvador, which comes just weeks before the 2023 Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile.Lauren is originally from California but has represented Puerto Rico for more than a decade. The 35-year-old qualified to represent the tiny Caribbean island via her grandmother, who she thanks for encouraging her to take up the opportunity.

Lauren took to Instagram to mark the occasion: “I want to freeze this moment in time. It’s a place that I could live in forever. The joy of competition despite all the challenges. The moment when my horse and I want it equally as bad.

“This is my first win at a championship. I have so many to thank: my federation, the Olympic committee, my owners, my teammates who helped me warm up and stood by me, Amy Spink groom extraordinaire, Emily Sandler, Tamie Smith for her inspiration and coaching via WhatsApp, my husband, my family, my barn family at home, sweet Charlie for stepping into the role of champion effortlessly and confidently, and my grandma for encouraging me to do this 13 years ago.”

FEI.org photo.

There was home joy for El Salvador as Juan Manuel Bolaños Barrios & Zilouet Mystic Rose took Jumping gold. They finished just ahead of Mexico’s Alberto Sanchez-Cozar and Venezuela’s Luis Fernando Larrazabal. There was also success in the Team event for Sanchez-Cozar, however, as Mexico took the top spot ahead of Colombia and Venezuela.

Yvonne Losos De Muñiz rolled back the years to take Dressage gold some 21 years after achieving the same feat in the same city. The Dominican Republic athlete took Individual gold for a third time at the Central American and Caribbean Games, this time with Idwinaretto.Colombia’s Juliana Gutierrez Aguilera took silver and helped her country to Team gold ahead of México and Costa Rica. Carlos Maldonado Lara of Mexico took individual bronze.

Stable View to Host New USEA Interscholastic Eventing League & Intercollegiate Championships 2024-2025

By on Jul 9, 2023 2:02 pm -
Suzanne Hillhouse and FGF Bob'n for Silver. Photo by Shelby Allen. Suzanne Hillhouse and FGF Bob'n for Silver. Photo by Shelby Allen.

The Stable View Horse Trials will have an extra dose of fun in store for 2024 and 2025, as they are set to host not only the USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championships, but also the first ever USEA Interscholastic Eventing League Championships.

“The USEA is looking forward to hosting the inaugural IEL Championship in conjunction with the Intercollegiate Eventing Championship,” said USEA CEO Rob Burk. “The team at Stable View is so enthusiastic about welcoming these programs to their beautiful venue in Aiken, South Carolina and has already shared several ways that they plan to enhance the championship experience for our Young Riders. Stay tuned for more developments as we get closer to the event and start preparing your teams today!”

Photo by Shelby Allen.

Both championships to be held on May 4-5, 2024 and May 3-4, 2025 will host Beginner Novice through Intermediate levels with no qualifications needed to enter, so long as your school and team are registered affiliates with the USEA. The IEC championships were most recently held at the Tryon International Equestrian Center and Chattahoochee Hills in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

The Interscholastic Eventing League began in 2021 and is a national pathway program hoping to increase education, engagement, and membership in the Intercollegiate programs for junior riders in 7th through 12th grade. The USEA states the mission of IEL as an opportunity “to bring together junior riders with a common interest and provide a supportive community through which students can continue to pursue their riding interests. This program will encourage team camaraderie and will give junior members a chance to compete in a team atmosphere. This program will also help provide a pathway for those riders who seek to be part of a collegiate eventing program as they graduate high school.”

The groups of junior riders do not have to all attend the same school to register with the USEA as an interscholastic team, but may share a common bond, such as the same barn or Pony Club.

Photo by Shelby Allen.

Any questions regarding the Intercollegiate Eventing Program or Interscholastic Eventing League and the upcoming 2024/2025 championships can be directed to USEA Staff Liaison, Kaleigh Collett, at [email protected]. Further information about the championships will be forthcoming as planning progresses, and a dedicated informational website for the championships will be established soon.

US Equestrian to Begin Tracking Fall Data

By on Jul 3, 2023 11:28 am -

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The safety and welfare of horses and riders at US Equestrian-licensed competitions continues to be of paramount importance to stakeholders at all levels of equestrian sport. It is well known that minimizing the occurrence of horse and rider falls decreases the risk of injury to participants and our equine partners in competition. To inform change, evaluate risk, and implement risk mitigation strategies in our sport, accurate data pertaining to falls is needed.

In an effort to collect uniform and actionable fall data across all levels of competition, beginning December 1, 2023, US Equestrian will require falls of horse and falls of rider occurring in competition to be reported in the class results at each competition.

Horse falls will be reported as ‘HF’ in the competition results and rider falls will be reported as ‘RF’. This requirement will be for all licensed breeds and disciplines, excluding eventing. For eventing competitions horse falls will continue to be reported as ‘MR’ in the competition results, and rider falls will continue to be reported as ‘RF’.

General Rule 122 defines the fall of a rider or a horse in competition. A rider is considered to have fallen when they are separated from their horse, that has not fallen, in such a way as to necessitate remounting or vaulting into the saddle. A horse is considered to have fallen when the shoulder and haunch on the same side have touched the ground or an obstacle and the ground.

If you have any questions regarding this requirement, please contact Katlynn Wilbers at [email protected]

British Eventing CCI4* Nations Cup Team Confirmed for Jardy

By on Jul 1, 2023 9:00 am -

Alex Bragg and Quindiva. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

British Eventing is pleased to announce the team that have been selected to represent Great Britain at the CCIO4*-S Nations Cup competition in Haras de Jardy, France, between 13 – 16 July is as follows:

Alex Bragg from Bridgwater, Somerset with the 13-year-old mare Quindiva owned by The Rowe Family, and the 10-year-old gelding Ardeo Premier, owned by Debbie and Neil Nuttall, as direct reserve.

Aaron Millar from Malmesbury, Wiltshire with the 10-year-old gelding Cooley Exchange owned by Lara Read.

Mollie Summerland from Burton-on-Trent, Derbyshire with the 9-year-old gelding Flow 7 owned by herself, Paula Cloke and Mark Johns.

Flora Harris Class Vista from Marlborough, Wiltshire with her own 10-year-old gelding Class Vista.

The team will be accompanied by Chef d’Equipe Philip Surl.

The British Eventing teams are supported by the British Equestrian Federation’s World Class Programme, funded by UK Sport through the National Lottery. The Programme focuses on identifying talent, developing potential and maximising medal-winning performances on the world stage.

More information on the FEI Nations Cup, including the full calendar, is available here.

US Equestrian: Continued Focus on Air Quality Concerns

By on Jun 29, 2023 9:00 am -

Embed from Getty Images

US Equestrian released the following update regarding air quality issues stemming from Canadian wildfires:

A few weeks ago, we put an alert out regarding the Air Quality Index (AQI) and concerns stemming from the Canadian wildfires on our east coast.  As we look at the weather this week across the northern and midwestern portions of America, we want to once again remind everyone to be aware of the AQI in your area.

Previous Alert:

USEF believes the decision by organizers to operate, suspend, or cancel competitions due to compromised air quality is best made by each individual organizer, because venue conditions can vary and can change rapidly depending upon weather, geography, and other factors. In order to make the most informed decision, competition organizers must consult with state and local health authorities and government agencies and should frequently review the Environmental Protection Agency guidelines involving air quality at AirNow.gov to determine whether or not to operate their events. Additionally, to best protect the health and safety of both equine and human competitors, the USEF strongly recommends that, in situations where the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches 151 or above, an organizer consider suspending or cancelling competition. In cases of cancellation, organizers must inform competitors about refund or credit policies.

Similarly, members must conduct their own risk assessment regarding air quality based on the situation in their area and determine whether to compete. Certainly, anyone with underlying medical conditions should individually consider not competing in situations where the AQI is in the orange zone of 101 to 150. Many resources exist to monitor the air quality including AirNow.gov, a website formed in a collaborative effort by several national agencies including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Weather Service, the CDC, and many others. AirNow.gov reports air quality using the official, color-coded U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI).

New Zealand’s Prospective Olympians Get Coaching Boost on Road to Paris 2024

By on Jun 28, 2023 2:39 pm -

Team New Zealand chef d’equipe Sam Griffiths at last year’s Pratoni test event. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

New Zealand’s four-strong equestrian team has continued its strong build up to Paris 2024 with their recent first placing overall at the 2023 Mill Street International Horse Trial in Ireland.

Leading the coaching support for the equestrian team is UK-based Sam Griffiths, who is himself getting support through HPSNZ’s Coach Accelerator Te Tūāpapa programme.

As part of Te Tūāpapa’s bespoke pinnacle event campaign support, programme lead Christian Penny has been working with Sam and has headed to the UK to assist him with campaign planning ahead of the all-important five-star horse trial in Aachen, Germany, a critical event on the road to Paris.

In December 2022 the New Zealand equestrian team undertook a Te Tūāpapa residential programme using tikanga marae process as a guide and work template for the group to help them gain clarity and commitment on a shared approach to Paris, says Christian.

“Sam was part of the equestrian team that undertook the residential and is one of the leaders who ‘glue’ them together. Eventing is essentially an individual challenge so keeping a sense of shared momentum, especially heading to Paris, is part of the plan to break through a glass ceiling in that event.”

Following the team’s time in New Zealand, Christian set up a fortnightly, online coaching session with Sam which has focussed on his current questions around bringing his best to coaching the New Zealand team.

“A key question I ask high performance coaches like Sam is ‘what do you need to be your best for the athlete or team in a pinnacle event like Paris?’ As part of the remote coaching sessions, we’ve covered a wide range of topics that are important in Sam’s role including contracting, use of powerful language, adapting to different athlete learning styles, laying down a challenge, and preparation and reflection on sessions and competition,” says Christian.

Sam is enthusiastic about the opportunity to work face to face with Christian.  “If we want an athlete to put in a world class performance then their support needs to be world class,” says Sam. “Christian is helping me raise my game to try and give that level of support in a multi-dimensional way.”

Equally Christian says seeing the coach and athletes in action helps further build the right support.

“It is a real privilege and opportunity for me to spend valuable time with Sam as he further builds on his coaching toolkit to enable the equestrian team to compete at their very best in Paris.”

Here’s a more in-depth look at how the program works:

 

 

Canadian Eventing Team Announced for FEI Eventing Nations Cup Arville

By on Jun 27, 2023 9:30 am -

Ottawa, ON, June 26, 2023 – The Equestrian Canada (EC) High Performance Advisory Group, Eventing (HPAG) is pleased to announce the team that will represent Canada at the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ in Arville, Belgium from August 17 – 20, 2023.

Thanks to a generous donation from Kelly McCarthy-Maine and Shane Maine, the athletes will have access to travel grants to assist in the costs of travelling to and competing in the southern Belgian town close to the border of Luxembourg.

The following members of the Canadian Eventing team will represent the maple leaf in Arville (in alphabetical order):

Hanna Bundy and Lovely Assistant. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Hanna Bundy
Horse: Lovely Assistant (Colonel John x Silver Ghost)
Owner: Juliana Hansen

Kendal Lehari and Audacious. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Kendal Lehari
Horse: Audacious (Iron Man x Rumlum Star)
Owners: Gwen, Kendal, and Rein Lehari

Katie Malensek and Landjaeger. Photo by Lisa Madren.

Katie Malensek
Horse: Landjaeger (Landkönig 3 x Unbridled’s Image XX)
Owner: Katie Malensek

Jessica Phoenix and Wabbit. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Jessica Phoenix
Horse: Wabbit (Line of Departure x Great Gladiator)
Owners: Jim Phillips, Colleen Mitchell, and Jessica Phoenix

“The Eventing High Performance Advisory Group is excited to be sending four horse & rider combinations to Arville, thanks to Kelly and Shane’s generosity,” shared HPAG chair Emily Gilbert. “This competition will provide crucial team experience and exposure to the Nations Cup format for the athlete combinations and international experience in a globally competitive field.”

Last year’s Nations Cup at Arville saw five European nations compete including Belgium, Sweden, Italy, Great Britain, and FEI World Championship winners – Germany. With a key strategic goal of building a positive performance trajectory for the Canadian Eventing Team adding them into a mix with some of the world’s best will deliver in spades.

The team heading to Arville has three newcomers to this level of international competition with one veteran rider. As a three-time Olympian, five-time Pan American Games medalist and appearances in three FEI World Equestrian Games, Phoenix has a wealth of intercontinental experience. Bundy, Lehari and Malensek will be making their first appearance on European soil. Each are excited for what the experience will bring to them, their horses, and the Canadian Eventing Team as a whole.

“We are incredibly honoured to have been named to the Nations Cup team for Arville this August,” said Phoenix of Cannington, ON. “Canadian Eventing is building a world-class program with exceptional opportunities, and we are so thankful to be a part of this upward momentum. Thank you to Kelly and Shane for making this travel grant possible! And thank you to Jim Phillips and Colleen Mitchell for being wonderful owners of Wabbit!”

Bundy of Toronto, ON shared her pride for representing the maple leaf. “I am so proud to be named to the Canadian Nations Cup team in Arville, Belgium,” she said. “Receiving one of the generous travel grants has made the trip possible for us and I am so grateful. Go Canada!”

Malensek, who resides in Ormond Beach, FL, is a small animal veterinarian who competed in her first CCI 4* in Myakka, FL, earlier this year. She and ‘Brewster,’ now nine, have been partnered since he was a yearling. “It is an honour to be selected for the Nations Cup team for Canada this summer. I am so grateful for the opportunity provided by the Eventing HPAG, and of course, Kelly and Shane,” she said. “The exposure for my horse and I to the competition, training and courses overseas will be unparalleled.”

Lehari of Uxbridge, ON, said “I am very excited and honoured to be named to the Nation’s Cup Team for Arville on Audacious,” she said. “This is such a fantastic opportunity to get experience overseas that the HPAG, Kelly McCarthy Maine and Shane Maine have made possible. I will travel overseas with two horses (Audacious and Mitchell) and extend my stay to train and compete in the UK to get more experience competing overseas.”

For more information on the CCI4* Arville, please click here.

British Equestrian Announces Nominated Entries for FEI Eventing European Championship

By on Jun 26, 2023 1:54 pm -
Tom McEwen and JL Dublin. Photo by Tilly Berendt. Tom McEwen and JL Dublin. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

British Equestrian and the British Eventing selectors can today confirm the 18 horse and rider combinations that will form their list of nominated entries ahead of the FEI Eventing European Championship, set to take place at Haras du Pin, France from 9–13 August this year.

Nominated entries, listed in alphabetical order by athlete surname:

Ros Canter (37) from Hallington, Lincolnshire, with Michele Saul’s Lordships Graffalo (bay, gelding, 11yrs, 17hh, Grafenstolz x Rock King, Breeder: Lordships Stud, Writtle College GBR) and Kate James and Annie Makin’s Pencos Crown Jewel (bay, mare, 14yrs, 16.1hh, Jumbo x Rock King, Breeder: Mrs Pennie Wallace GBR)

Laura Collett (33) from Salperton, Gloucestershire, with Keith Scott, Karen Bartlett and her own London 52 (bay, gelding, 14yrs, 16.3hh, Landos x Quinar, Breeder: Ocke Riewerts GER)

David Doel (30) from Chippenham, Wiltshire, with Gillian Jonas’ Galileo Nieuwmoed (dark bay, gelding, 12yrs, 17hh, Carambole x Harcos, Breeder: J. W. and A. P. Jurrius NED)

Pippa Funnell (54) from Dorking, Surrey, with Sarah Ross’ MCS Maverick (bay, gelding, 10yrs, 16.1hh, s. Mill Law, Breeder: Mrs M Watson GBR)

Yasmin Ingham (26) from Nantwich, Cheshire (originally from Isle of Man), with The Sue Davies Fund and Janette Chinn’s Banzai du Loir (chestnut, gelding, 12yrs, 16.2hh, Nouma D’Auzay x Livarot, Breeder: Pierre Gouye FRA) and The Sue Davies Fund and Janette Chinn’s Rehy DJ (bay, gelding, 13yrs, 16.1hh, Tinarana’s Inspector x Big Shot Hope, Breeder: Noel Russell IRL)

Tom Jackson (30) from Godalming, Surrey, with Patricia Davenport, Millie Simmie and Sarah Webb’s Capels Hollow Drift (grey, gelding, 12yrs, 16.2hh, Shannondale Sarco St Ghyvan x Lucky Gift, Breeder: Jeanette Glynn GBR)

Kitty King (40) from Chippenham, Wiltshire, with Diana Bown, the late Sally Eyre, Samantha Wilson and Sally Lloyd-Baker’s Vendredi Biats (grey, gelding, 14yrs, Winningmood x Camelia de Ruelles, Breeder: Phillipe Briviois FRA)

Piggy March (42) from Maidwell, Northamptonshire, with John and Chloe Perry and Alison Swinburn’s Brookfield Cavalier Cruise (brown, gelding, 10yrs, 16.3hh, Cavalier Carnival x Atlantic Cruise, Breeder: Martin Ryan IRL) and James and Jo Lambert’s Coolparks Sarco (bay, gelding, 11yrs, 16.2hh, Shannondale Sarco St Ghyvan x Clarion Hotel Coolcorran Cool Diamond, Breeder: Michael Burke IRL)

Tom McEwen (32) from Stroud, Gloucestershire, with James and Jo Lambert and Deirdre Johnston’s JL Dublin (dark brown, gelding, 16.2hh, Diarado x Cantano, Breeder: Volker Göttsche-Götze GER), Martin Belsham’s Luna Mist (bay, mare, 10yrs, 16hh, Alvescot Paper Moon x Wickstead Didger I Doo) and Fred and Penny Barker, Jane Coppell and Alison McEwen’s Toledo de Kerser (bay, gelding, 16yrs, 16.1hh, Diamant de Semilly x Papillon Rouge, Breeder: Kerstin Drevet FRA)

Gemma Stevens (38) from Horsham, West Sussex, with Pru Dawes’ Flash Cooley (grey, gelding, 11yrs, 16.1hh, CSF Mr Kroon x OBOS Quality, Breeder: Jim O’Neill IRL)

Oliver Townend (40) from Ellesmere, Shropshire, with Karyn Shuter, Angela Hislop and Val Ryan’s Ballaghmor Class (grey, gelding, 16yrs, 16.2hh, s. Courage II, Breeder: Noel Hicky IRL) and Paul and Diana Ridgeon’s Swallow Springs (grey, gelding, 15yrs, 16.2hh, Chillout x Cult Hero, Breeder: Maria Keating IRL)

Bubby Upton (24) from Newmarket, Suffolk, with Rachel Upton and The Zebedee Syndicate’s Magic Roundabout (chestnut, gelding, 13yrs, 16.1hh, s. Samraan, Breeder: Sharon Shone GBR)

At the time of release, the names of the grooms for each horse have not been confirmed but will be included in the final squad announcement.

Selection decisions are subject to the athlete and horse maintaining fitness and performance, and this list may be amended at any point up to 10 July 2023. The selected squad of six combinations to travel to Haras du Pin, plus reserves, will be announced later in July.

The funding that the British Equestrian World Class Programme receives from the National Lottery and UK Sport is pivotal in preparing teams for senior championships and supporting them on the ground.

New CEO for British Eventing Announced

By on Jun 24, 2023 1:16 pm -

British Eventing is delighted to announce the appointment of Rosie Williams OBE as its new Chief Executive Officer. Rosie will assume her role in mid-September.

With a distinguished career spanning several decades in the sports industry, Rosie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this position. Her achievements and exceptional leadership skills make her the ideal candidate to lead British Eventing into the next era of growth and success. Rosie’s first national governing body role was as National Sports Manager for the Australian Equestrian Federation, a role which gave her a real appreciation for equestrian sport. Most of her career has been spent in the sport of Rugby. Rosie spent 10 years as CEO of the Rugby Football Union for Women in England, delivering such outstanding success in the development of the sport that she was awarded an OBE for her contribution to Rugby.

Rosie fully understands the challenges of running major events. She took on the role of Tournament Director of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2010, delivering a world class athlete centred event that had a hugely positive effect on the profile of women’s rugby worldwide. Running her own consultancy business for several years gave her broad exposure to highly commercial environments. In early 2022 Rosie took up the role of CEO of Softball Australia, implementing a major change management programme transforming the organisation’s financial management, strategic direction, and operational process.

Rosie has established herself as a respected figure in the sports world. She has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the sporting landscape. Her passion for equestrian sports started early; growing up in New South Wales, Australia, Rosie competed in several equestrian disciplines include eventing, show jumping, dressage, and polocrosse.

As the newly appointed CEO, Rosie will be responsible for overseeing all strategic and operational aspects of British Eventing. Her primary focus will be to foster the continued development of eventing, promote inclusivity within the sport and enhance the overall experience for participants and spectators alike, alongside an improved value proposition to members.

Commenting on her appointment, Rosie said “I am thrilled and honoured to join British Eventing as CEO. Eventing holds a special place in my heart and I am excited to contribute to the growth and success of this incredible sport. I am committed to working closely with the talented team at British Eventing, as well as the broader eventing community to ensure that our athletes, horses and all stakeholders have the best possible experience.”

Mark Sartori, Chairman of British Eventing, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the appointment, stating “We are delighted that Rosie is joining BE as she brings successful CEO and national governing body (NGB) experience to BE. Eventing, along with all Equestrian sports faces challenges and we need a highly experienced CEO as we continue our 3 year re-structuring plan. It is vital that we unite all our stakeholders and Rosie has huge experience across a number of businesses, sports and different stakeholders. Running a NGB is not an easy role and the Board agreed that we needed someone who had a proven track record both as a CEO and working within a NGB and thus we are delighted that Rosie will be starting in September.

On behalf of all at BE we ask all our stakeholders to continue to support the sport we love and help Rosie and the team over the exciting years ahead. I am personally very positive for the future as we continue to make the changes that will allow BE to not only be sustainable but thrive and become a world leader again.”

Horses Test Positive for EHV-1 at Virginia Horse Center

By on Jun 23, 2023 3:00 pm -

Sunrise over the Virginia Horse Center. Photo by Dave Taylor.

Two horses displaying neurologic signs at a USEF licensed competition at the Virginia Horse Center (VHC) were confirmed positive for Equine Herpesivrus-1(EHV-1). Both horses were immediately moved off the grounds to a veterinary clinic. One horse is receiving medical care and is stable. Sadly, the other horse was euthanized due to the severity of clinical signs.

Approximately 80 exposed horses that were stabled in the same barn as the two positive horses at the VHC have been placed under quarantine, prohibited from competition, and placed in isolation by the State Veterinarian’s Office of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. All exposed horses are being monitored twice daily for fever (temperature over 101.50° F) and other clinical signs.

No other horses at the horse show are considered exposed and the horse show will continue. However, out of an abundance of caution, the unexposed horses are having temperatures and clinical signs monitored.

The USEF Equine Health and Biosecurity Veterinarian, Dr. Katie Flynn, has been in direct communication with all parties regarding the response to the confirmation of EHV-1. “I applaud the VHC staff, the show veterinarians, competition management, and show participants for their prompt response and collaborative efforts to immediately implement biosecurity measures to protect the health of all equines on the premises,” said Dr. Flynn.

Based on the thorough assessment of the premises by the Virginia State Veterinarian’s office, and the immediate activation of the VHC biosecurity and disease response plan upon confirmation of EHV-1; the USEF supports the continuation of competition with the enhanced biosecurity measures and monitoring of horse health through twice daily temperature recording and observation for signs of illness. USEF will continue to monitor the situation.

As a reminder when commingling horses, there is always a risk of disease. There is no way to eliminate all risks. Vaccination and good biosecurity practices reduce the risk of disease while at competitions. For more biosecurity tips for keeping horses healthy during competition visit https://www.usef.org/forms-pubs/Kgxcgp4ytKE/exhibitor-biosecurity-measures-pamphlet

For more information on EHV-1 or the latest on disease outbreaks visit https://equinediseasecc.org/.

Two Months ’til the Euros: Taking Stock at Haras du Pin

By on Jun 23, 2023 11:00 am -

The unique terrain of Haras du Pin will host the European Championships this summer. Photo courtesy of Haras du Pin.

On Wednesday June 14, media and institutions gathered at the magnificent Haras National du Pin (Orne, Normandy) for a preview of what is sure to be the highlight of the summer eventing calendar. In the presence of Astier Nicolas, double Olympic medallist and member of the French team, Michel Asseray, French National Technical Director in charge of eventing, and Pierre Le Goupil, international course designer, the details of the event, in terms of both sport and entertainment, were outlined. It was also an exclusive opportunity to discover the infrastructures of the brand-new Pôle International des Sports Equestres (PISE), where some of the tests will be held.

Four new sub-irrigated arenas, natural grandstands, spacious and functional permanent stables, and a multi-faceted reception building: the PISE offers new perspectives for competitors and spectators alike. The main arena will host the opening ceremony on Wednesday August 9, followed by the dressage test on Thursday August 10 and Friday August 11, before giving way to the breeding competitions organized by Cheval Normandie, the association gathering all the sport horse breeders of Normandy. The action then moves to the Parc du Hautbois on Saturday for the crucial and always spectacular cross-country test, before finishing on Sunday on the iconic Château arena with the ultimate show-jumping test…and the reveal of the new European champions!

Thus, the continent’s best combinations will come to compete for medals but also, for some nations, a spot at the Olympic Games in Paris 2024. As a major event of the 2023 season, the FEI Eventing European Championships is for many the main goal of the season. With a core group of twenty people (plus up to 300 volunteers during the competition), everything is currently being put in place by the Ustica association, organizer of the event at the Haras National du Pin, to offer all teams and spectators the best possible conditions to guarantee great sport and a great show.

Gaspard Maksud and Zaragoza at Haras du Pin. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Guillame Blanc will act as event director, as he has been since 2017 on the ‘Grand Complet’ (CCIO4*-S FEI Eventing Nations Cup), within the organizing association Ustica, as well as acting as technical delegate for numerous international competitions.

“After so many years of competition, you grow up,” he smiles. “When you look back and see where we started from 27 years ago with our first competition, it’s really satisfying. It’s also a challenge, especially for an organization like ours, which is entirely associative. All our projects are progressing well. We’re finalizing with Argentan Intercom and the SNCF to make it easier for spectators to get here. Everything is falling into place. We have also established several collaborations with various research and health organizations to ensure maximum safety for the horses’ well-being.

“This is very important to us. The new infrastructures built on the site will enable us to move up another level. This is a major challenge. With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, it will also enable us to repeat protocols with very high-level horses.”

These words were echoed by the French team rider Olympic team champion and individual runner-up at the 2016 Rio Olympics, Astier Nicolas: “The unique site of the Haras du Pin offers us an excellent opportunity to develop our horses on a cross-country course of the highest level. Of course we enjoy competing abroad, but we’re even more excited here in France, where we’ll have home advantage before the Olympic Games next year.”

The cross-country course, the highlight of the four days of competition on Saturday August 12, is the focus of much attention. While the course remains a “secret” right up to the last moment, course designer Pierre Le Goupil’s plans have been drawn up.

“The course is mapped out and the obstacles are all in my head,” he says. “We’ve planned a big loop of over 4000m in the grasslands of the Haras du Pin, an area very different from the Parc du Haut-Bois, where the start and finish will take place. Efforts will be progressive but even, with decreasing difficulty at the end. The terrain is never flat, and riders will need to keep their horses’ energy to tackle the course’s topography, which is comparable to that of the 2014 World Equestrian Games. The course has been designed for some forty obstacles, spread over 5800m, to be cleared in around ten minutes. Discovery will be limited, as all the nations are used to coming to this terrain on the occasion of the Grand Complet. Riders know every inch of it. We have a superb setting and a perfectly adapted course with plenty of space and gradients. Normandy is a beautiful place.”

With a year to go until the Olympic trials (July 27-29 for eventing) in the gardens of the Château de Versailles, only seven European nations have already qualified: France (as host country), Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Sweden, Switzerland, the USA, and New Zealand at the World Championships in Pratoni last year; Poland in a group C qualifier at Baborowko; and Australia and China in a qualifier at Millstreet. The FEI Eventing European Championships in Le Pin-au-Haras will distribute two new tickets for countries that have not yet qualified. The Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Spain, Belgium, Italy and Austria are candidates for these two tickets — the penultimate chance to see Versailles (a final ticket will be awarded at the end of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup circuit).

“There’s qualification for some nations, with inevitably some happy but also some disappointed ones at the end of the competition, but we can be sure that the nations will also want to show their muscles a year before the Olympic Games,” predicts the director. It promises to be one hell of a good fight — and a hell of a show, with the Tricolores, on the podium at the last two Olympic Games (gold in 2016, bronze in 2021), hoping to win their first ever European team title in front of their home fans.

Strides for Equality Equestrians: Summer Ever So Sweet Scholarship Awarded to Sabrina Sharpe

By on Jun 23, 2023 9:00 am -

Strides for Equality Equestrians is thrilled to announce that Sabrina Sharpe of Missouri has been selected to receive the Summer 2023 Ever So Sweet scholarship to study with Sara Kozumplik at Overlook Farm. Sharpe is the youngest ever recipient of this competitive, one-of-a-kind scholarship opportunity for equestrians of diverse backgrounds to train, learn, and build their professional networks under the guidance of an upper-level professional eventer.

Sharpe, 17, is a rising senior at Park Hill South high school in Kansas City, MO. She is a nationally rated Pony Clubber, certified in HB level horse management and working toward her C3 certification, and she has successfully evented through Novice. She currently competes with her 7-year-old off-track Thoroughbred gelding King (TJC: Barbie’s King), who she restarted herself in 2021. Sharpe and King are working to make a transition to hunter-jumpers after King showed a lack of enthusiasm for cross-country.

One of Sharpe’s hopes for her ESS Scholarship is to learn from professionals how to reckon with changes in training goals that come from listening closely to what the horse wants and needs, and how to balance her horse’s needs against her own eventing aspirations. In her application, she wrote candidly about the impact of this experience and its relation to broader experiences as an equestrian of color. “Because of facing many obstacles, such as financial access, being a first generation equestrian in my family, and being a person of color in general, I was proud and excited to buy and start my own OTTB, which has been a great joy and an extreme heartbreak. In one regard, he is amazing at dressage, show jumping and hunters, and is delightful on the ground, but on the other, I love cross country and he does not.”

Sharpe will begin her scholarship with Kozumplik this week at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, FL, where she will meet Sara and ESS alum Sierra Lesny and hit the ground running in her educational experience, witnessing and participating in Kozumplik Equestrian’s Florida season. Through the generous sponsorship of Kozumplik and Edy Rameika, Sharpe and King will then spend the remainder of the summer months training with Sara at Overlook Farm Equestrian Center in Berryville, VA. The scholarship covers expenses for full board and training costs for King, several lessons per week, housing for Sabrina, a stipend to cover living expenses, competition fees, and coaching at competitions.

Sabrina will also improve her horse care skills by learning to manage and care for upper-level horses and working with the Overlook team in the running of a large, competitive barn. She is especially excited to gain experience with the upper-level eventing world as she contemplates what her future professional and personal equestrian goals will be. She is also excited to have more opportunities and a larger platform to share her experiences as an equestrian of color and to educate others on the importance of inclusion and representation across the horse industry. In her application, she shared that she has experienced prejudice as a rider of color, “but in light of those experiences, I have found more good than bad in people, I’ve developed everlasting friendships, met people that have helped me grow in my riding experiences, and recently have been discussing the importance of allyship in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Ultimately, I want a career that allows me the opportunity to help others with a similar background as mine.”

Sharpe is the fifth recipient of an ESS Scholarship, the first participant to train at Overlook Farm while still in high school, and the first recipient representing the Midwest and USEA Area IV. In addition to the opportunities she will have this summer, Sharpe will serve as an ambassador for the ESS Scholarship in coming years and will join a growing community of Ever So Sweet and Leg Up Scholarship recipients who are working to make diversity more visible in equestrian sport.

Follow Sabrina’s journey firsthand on the @see.eversosweet Instagram, and check in with her and the other alums at @stridesforequality on Instagram and on the Strides for Equality Equestrians Facebook page. Learn more about Strides for Equality across our website, and consider donating to support riders like Sabrina today!

US Equestrian Announces Opportunity Fund Grants Awarded to USEF Community Outreach Organizations

By on Jun 22, 2023 11:00 am -

US Equestrian is pleased to announce that it has awarded more than $128,000 in USEF Opportunity Fund grants to 13 USEF Community Outreach Organizations in the fund’s second year.

The 2023 USEF Opportunity Fund grants will support a range of projects, from expanding programming and purchasing safety equipment to infrastructure improvements and business operations support. Grantees are listed below in alphabetical order:

Beachwood Center for Wellbeing (Charlestown, R.I.)

Beachwood will use this grant for programming costs associated with the services and therapies offered to their clients. Also, the grant will be used for updates to their new facility in Wellington, Fla.

Ebony Horsewomen (Hartford, Conn.)

Ebony Horsewoman will use the grant for operating costs to fund horse care,feed, and staffing needs.

GallopNYC (New York, N.Y.)

GallopNYC plans to use the grant for programming support services for their clients directly.

Horse SenseAbility (Sherborn, Mass.)

This grant will be used for programming costs to support at-risk youth and young adults. These participants develop life skills by learning about, caring for, and being with horses in a peaceful, rural setting.

Horses N Heroes (Ocala, Fla.)

Horses N Heroes plans to use the grant to help with programming costs to support economically disadvantaged girls in the Ocala community.

Horses of Hope (Isabela, Puerto Rico)

Horses of Hope is in the process of moving locations to expand the services offered. The grant will be used to assist with this transition as well as facility improvements.

Kentucky Horse Park Foundation Mustang Troop (Lexington, Ky.)

The Mustang Troop, based at the Kentucky Horse Park, plans to use the grant to enhance programming. By increasing the staff and herd, the Mustang Troop hopes to serve more youth in the area.

Kindle Hill Foundation Charity (Blue Bell, Pa.)

Kindle Hill will use the grant for program fee assistance resources as well as advancement of internal operations with purchase of HIPAA-compliant technology.

Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center (Redmond, Wash.)

Little Bit will use the funds to purchase new horses for programming. The goal of seven new horses would allow Little Bit to expand on the current services offered. Additionally, this would allow for a few of their horses to enjoy a well-deserved retirement.

Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue (Dover Plains, N.Y.)

Lucky Orphans will use the grant to supplement participant costs in the youth development program and the equine assisted therapy program.

Manes for Movement (Torrance, Calif.)

Manes for Movement has added a new horse to the herd. This grant would be used for operating costs of feed, shelter, and farrier/veterinary care.

Maryland Therapeutic Riding Inc. (Crownsville, Md.)

Maryland Therapeutic Riding will use the grant to purchase two BEMER horse sets to enhance the health and wellness of their 16 horses.

Taking The Reins (Los Angeles, Calif.)

Taking The Reins plans to use the grant to support the operating costs of horse care, feed, and staffing needs.

Learn more about all of the USEF Community Outreach organizations here.

“I can’t say enough about these Community Outreach Organizations. I have learned so much about their missions, values, and operations over the past two years, and it’s just amazing to see and hear their stories and how they work with horses to help so many people, said Tom O’Mara, President of US Equestrian.

“This started with US Equestrian members, from all around the country, identifying the need to connect with these organizations, and then it was easy to pitch the Community Outreach Program to the USEF Board and get an enthusiastic buy-in to make this work,” said O’Mara. “USEF staff and volunteer members have worked diligently to make this all happen, so thank you to all who’ve kick-started such a worthwhile undertaking. We have members, sponsors, friends, families, and event organizers all pitching in. This really shows the power of our US Equestrian community. I encourage you to take some time and scroll through the links and learn more about the organizations.”

These grants were awarded through a competitive grants request process. One hundred-percent of funds raised for the Opportunity Fund are dedicated to supporting the USEF Community Outreach Program and its recognized USEF Community Outreach Organizations. These organizations can be found across the country and are committed to bringing horses to traditionally under-represented and/or under-served communities, including active military and veterans; low-income individuals; people with disabilities; Black, Indigenous, and people of color; and more. The USEF Opportunity Fund aims to extend the reach and impact of these outstanding organizations to improve access to horses and bring the joy of horse sports to as many people as possible. These grants were made possible by the generous contributions of the USEF Board of Directors, members, partners, and competition organizers. Please consider supporting the Opportunity Fund and make a donation today.

About USEF Community Outreach Organizations

Recognized USEF Community Outreach Organizations are united by their standards in their mission to provide equine-based learning opportunities and to support the positive impact horses can have within their local communities. These organizations must meet certain standards of horse and human welfare, including USEF Safe Sport requirements and abiding by the USEF Non-Discrimination Policy, as well as offering their services for free or on a sliding scale of fees based on financial need, and more, before being recognized through this program.

How You Can Help

  • Opportunity Fund – Donate today to help fund grants for the USEF Community Outreach Organizations.
  • Shop USEF – Show your support with the purchase of a USEF Community Outreach Program pin. 100% of the proceeds from pin sales will be contributed to the USEF Opportunity Fund.

Announcing The Dutta Corp./USEF Eventing High Performance Flight Grants for Paris 2024

By on Jun 21, 2023 3:03 pm -

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg in Tokyo. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

US Equestrian is pleased to announce the establishment of The Dutta Corp./USEF Eventing High Performance Flight Grants. These grants will be awarded to eventing athletes who are targeting the 2024 Olympic Games.

US Equestrian will award two air transportation grants with a value up to $20,000 each to be used toward horse flight expenses for a CCI4* or CCI5*-L competition during the 2023 calendar year. The application period will run from June 20th to August 7th, and FEI-registered eventing athletes will receive have been sent an email notification with further information, and it is also available here. After consultation with the Eventing Pathway Working Group, the Eventing Technical Advisor will recommend a list of grant recipients to the USEF CEO for approval.

“The Dutta Corp. has been a generous partner of US Equestrian’s eventing programs, and we’re so pleased to have their support as we look toward the 2024 Olympics in Paris,” said US Equestrian CEO Bill Moroney. “These travel grants will be a valuable asset to Olympic hopefuls as they compete in FEI events this year and prepare to go for the gold in 2024.”

“We are honored to partner again with US Equestrian to support the excellent U.S. horsemen and horsewomen as they travel the world to be the best they can be and give it all to be on the podium in Paris 2024 and beyond,” said Tim Dutta, founder and CEO of The Dutta Corp. “We are humbled to give their horses wings.”

EN’s pre-coverage of the Paris Olympics in 2024 is brought to you with support from Zoetis — Long Live the Horse.

Hangzhou Gears Up for Equestrian Excellence at the 19th Asian Games

By on Jun 20, 2023 2:30 pm -

Jacqueline Siu of Hong Kong pats her horse JC Fuerst On Tour after winning the individual dressage event during the equestrian competition at the 18th Asian Games at Jakarta International Equestrian Park on August 23, 2018 in Jakarta, Indonesia. FEI/Yong Teck Lim photo.

As the prestigious 19th Asian Games draws ever-closer, equestrian athletes and fans alike are eagerly awaiting the events set to unfold in Hangzhou, China. With just 100 days remaining until the equestrian events kick off on 26 September, the excitement is building among riders, teams, and the equestrian community.

From September 26 to October 6, the magnificent Hangzhou International Equestrian Park will serve as the playing field for the competitions across the 3 Olympic disciplines of Jumping, Dressage and Eventing. A state-of-the-art venue, spread over an impressive area of approximately 54,000 square meters, awaits the arrival of world-class equine and human athletes with meticulously designed training arenas, stables and veterinary facilities.

Organized by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Asian Games bring together the OCA’s 45 member countries to compete in a diverse range of 40 sports.

Since its debut appearance at the 9th Asian Games in 1982 held in New Delhi, India, equestrian sport has become an integral part of the Asian Games program. Following a brief absence in the 11th edition in Beijing, it returned in 1994 and has been a core of the programme ever since.

At Hangzhou 2022, we can expect an impressive roster of 20 nations to participate in the equestrian events, including powerhouse equestrian countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates, alongside emerging contenders like Palestine, Qatar, and Uzbekistan, vying for supremacy and national pride.

A Rich History

Yoshi Oiwa and Bart L JRA. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Over the years, legendary riders and talented teams have etched their names in Asian Games history.

In Jakarta (INA) 2018, Ali Al Khorafi from Kuwait clinched the individual Jumping gold medal with his remarkable horse Cheril, while Ali Al-Thani of Qatar secured the silver aboard Sirocco. Meanwhile, Ramzy Al-Duhami from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia galloped to a bronze medal victory astride Ted.

Notably, the Saudi Arabian team, comprising Abdullah Al-Sharbatly, Khaled Al Eid, and Khaled Al Mobty alongside Ramzy Al-Duhami, claimed the team gold.

Hong Kong’s Jacqueline Wing Ying Siu left an indelible mark in Jakarta, winning the individual Dressage gold medal with her extraordinary horse, Jockey Club Fuerst On Tour, while Japan took the top spots in the team competition.

In Eventing, it was Yoshiaki Oiwa from Japan who emerged victorious, capturing the individual gold with Bart L JRA. India’s Fouaad Mirza secured the silver medal on his mount Seigneur Medicott, while Alex Hua-Tian from China claimed the bronze riding PSH Convivial.

The Japanese Eventing team, comprising Ryuzo Kitajima, Takayuki Yumira, Kenta Hiranaga, and Yoshiaki Oiwa, also stood atop the podium, proudly taking home the team gold medals.

Equestrian sport’s rich history at the Asian Games is a testament to the sport’s growth and popularity in the region. The inclusion of equestrian events in the program since 1982 speaks volumes about the enduring appeal and impact it has had on the Asian sporting landscape, which is growing every year.

With Hangzhou 2022 on the horizon, it offers a unique opportunity for riders and teams to showcase their talents on a continental stage, while inspiring a new generation of equestrians across Asia.

The countdown has begun, and the stage is set…

The Asian Games runs from 23 September to 8 October, with the equestrian events slated for 26 September to 6 October.

Maryland International and Horse Trials Running this July

By on Jun 19, 2023 10:30 am -

The Maryland International and Horse Trials will run from July 7-9, 2023 at Loch Moy Farm at the foot of beautiful Sugarloaf Mountain in Adamstown, Maryland. Come and see past and future Olympians ride the Maryland International running FEI levels CCI 1,2,3,4*-S as well as a new Advanced track.

Photo by Alison Green for Erin Gilmore.

The XC course design is by 5* course designer Ian Stark (GB). Ian has added exciting jumps as well as new terrain features that include a triple bank complex at the water, new coffin and leaf pit track. Loch Moy has been watering the course in the months leading up to the event to create the best footing for the horses to gallop on. The tracks will also be aggravated.

The course has been
maintained for the comfort of horse and rider.

Not only will the horses and competitors have the very best conditions to ride on, but spectators will also have the best opportunities to watch the competition. General Admission is free, and a shuttle service from general admission parking will be provided. VIP passes are available that will give spectators exclusive access to all three days of the event.

VIP passes include:

– Entrance to the VIP Hospitality Tent allowing premium viewing of
dressage, cross country and show jumping

– Cross country course walk with world renowned 5* course designer
Ian Stark (on Friday after dressage)

– “Brunch on the Berm” including brunch and drinks while watching XC (Saturday)

– Premium parking pass

– Complimentary Maryland International swag

Entries are still open, until tomorrow (6/20) at midnight. For more information, click here.