View Classifieds
AJ Dyer
Articles Written 1,534
Article Views 1,534,883

AJ Dyer

Achievements

Become an Eventing Nation Blogger

About AJ Dyer

Visionaire is one of the foundation writers of Eventing Nation from the very early days in 2010. She has ridden up to Advanced level and spent six years as head groom for Dorothy Crowell. After a few years in the Thoroughbred industry, she now spends her time writing for EN, riding a few nice OTTBs, and working with her husband's hay business, A.T. Acres Farm.

Latest Articles Written

More Badminton Videos: Interviews & Paul Tapner’s Course Walk

By on May 4, 2013 4:39 pm -

  1. Badminton Horse Trials 2013 Guided XC course walk with Taperz

    Walk the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton 2013 Cross Country Course with former winner Paul ‘TAPERZ” Tapner.

    —

  2. HSBC FEI Classics™ 2012/13 – Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials – Andrew Nicholson

    Andrew Nicholson discusses the Cross Country and the incredible last week he has had in the run up to the event.

  3. HSBC FEI Classics™ 2012/13 – Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials – Michael Jung Dressage Leader

    Michael Jung talks about being in the lead after the Dressage phase at the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials 2013.

    –

  4. HSBC FEI Classics™ 2012/13 – Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials – Mark Todd

    Mark Todd discusses his competition during the weekend head, especially Andrew Nicholson and William Fox-Pitt who are riding …


    –

  5. Thumbnail

    HSBC FEI Classics™ 2012/13 – Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials – William Fox-Pitt

    William Fox-Pitt talks about the the Cross Country Ahead of his Two Rides.

    –

  6. HSBC FEI Classics™ 2012/13 – Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials – Pippa Funnell

    Pippa Funnell discusses her thoughts at the beginning of the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials 2013.

    –

  7. HSBC FEI Classics™ 2012/13 – Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials – Zara Phillips

    Zara Phillips discusses her thoughts at the beginning of the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials 2013.

Badminton News from Around the ‘Net

By on May 3, 2013 8:25 pm -

William Fox-Pitt and Oslo at Badminton, photo by Jenni Autry

 

EN’s Jenni Autry has done an outstanding job holding her own across the pond, giving us quick informative updates and dressage videos as fast as Youtube allows.  But in case you just can’t get enough Badminton coverage, here’s what other news outlets have to say about today’s action:

 

Horse & Hound

  • Badminton Horse Trials blog: this year’s event has a brilliant buzz – “Today’s dressage judging hasn’t been altogether consistent, with the two British judges different by almost 8% over what mark William Fox-Pitt should be awarded on Oslo. I am slightly surprised that, with the calibre field there is this year, no one has broken the 40-barrier on the first day — but it is likely to happen several times over tomorrow.”
  • Australia’s Christopher Burton leads Badminton Horse Trials 2013  – ‘Christopher said: “She is a lovely old horse, but not the most extravagant so you have to ride for as few mistakes as you possible can. I was delighted with how she stayed with me. I was aiming for a sub-45 score so I’m thrilled with 43 to lead.”’

 

Horse & Country

  • Antipodeans go top on day one of Badminton – “‘I’m always nervous going into the dressage – she’s a lovely horse but not the most extravagant, so I always have to make as few mistakes as I can. I was aiming to go below 45 so to be in the lead on a score of 43 is fantastic and unbelievable,’ said Burton.”
  • Jenny’s video blog: Badminton day two – Roving reporter Jenny Rudall is at Badminton, filming for ‘Rudall’s Round-Up: Badminton’ and ‘Badminton: A Rider’s View’, starring Francis Whittington and sponsored by Saracen Horse Feeds.

 

 

The Chronicle of the Horse

The FEI

 

Nico Morgan’s 2013 Badminton Photo Gallery

 

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald

  • BADMINTON HORSE TRIALS DAY ONE: Big two in Trials contention – “Fox-Pitt and Nicholson will return to the dressage arena tomorrow afternoon on their respective principal challengers Parklane Hawk and Nereo, although several powerful combinations are queueing up to potentially dash their Rolex Grand Slam hopes.”

 

 

Jennifer Shattuck: Walking in the Hoof Prints of Greatness

By on May 3, 2013 11:45 am -

Jennifer Shattuck wrote a beautiful piece as a tribute to attending Rolex.  Many thanks to Jen for sharing with us…she truly brings the magic and mystique of Rolex to life.

–

Photo by Kasey Mueller

–

Walking in the Hoof Prints of Greatness

by Jen Shattuck

–

On a quiet Sunday morning, in the shy hours of a Kentucky day, I traced a path.
Before the hum of sound system checks and the call of vendors, before the rattle of gates and the cheer of the crowds, before the sun had noticed the morning dew, and, most desperately, before the passing of time had allowed the magic to fade into crumbled dirt and workman’s boots.
I stood at The Start and felt the power of a hundred hooves. I looked down and placed my own foot gingerly in the print before me, still soft and perfect in its outline, feeling a pang of guilt as the form collapsed to accommodate my weight. I let my eyes gaze down that historical lane, and then I walked.
And I listened.
In the hush of that morning I listened to story of the prints below. I followed along like an eager child, stopping in my own tracks at the dizzying magnitude of obstacles as they came into view, an obscene combination of beauty and terror, and for a moment I became lost in a memory of imagination.
I hear the disconnected reality of thousands of voices muted into a faint echo. The law of time suspended as motion slows and each stride becomes its own pulse. Nostrils widen, breath quickens, a bead of sweat falls away. And for a fleeting moment gravity patiently waits and there is only air. Perhaps a spectator’s gasp escapes the silence and an ear twitches to follow the sound. But then hoof and earth reunite, the ticking of the clock returns to its proper pace, and the raucous joy of fans is left behind in the wake of effort.  A private conversation is shared with a pat on the neck in a single gesture of gratitude, encouragement, and trust.
I made my way around that famous course. Turn by turn, jump by jump, my own breathing becoming labored at times, until I reached the last. I paused at The Finish and looked back at the prints that had allowed, possibly even welcomed, my company.  I quietly thanked them and a subtle nod of respect passed between us.
And then I stepped beyond the boundary and it was over. A gentle wave of sadness rippled through me as I suddenly became just a girl occupying space on a random clod of dirt.  Around me there were dogs splashing, children climbing, workers coiling miles of cable, and memories of victory and defeat sinking into the earth to escape it all.
I traced a path of greatness that morning, a path built upon hope and struggle, of jubilance and sorrow. A path that many will dream of, but few will achieve.
As I walked away I submitted to a brief delay in my return to reality and took a sentimental glance over my shoulder.  I was surprised to see a man standing alone and quiet at The Start. He gazed downward at the rounded outlines in the grass and tentatively took a step forward.
And I smiled.

Watch Badminton Live Online at FEI TV Sunday & Monday

By on May 3, 2013 9:27 am -

 

Badminton promises to be extra dramatic this year, and with Jenni Autry in place overseas, we’ll bring you top-notch coverage as always.  The dressage will not be broadcast, but cross-country and show-jumping can be viewed around the world online at FEI TV.

 

Watch Online:  Watch Badminton online through FEITV.org.   FEI TV is a fee-based service, but they offer on-demand streaming, meaning that you will be able to watch the cross-country and show jumping online whenever you want to.  Here are your options for subscribing:

I haven’t paid for FEI TV before, but I have heard good things.

[FEI TV]

Broadcast Schedule:

SUNDAY 5th MAY

10:55 – 16:30 hours  (5:55am-1:30pm ET)

(Cross Country  – to include 1 hour Dressage highlights prior to Cross Country)

MONDAY 6th MAY

10:55 – 11:45 hours – Show Jumping (first rounds)  (5:55am-6:45am ET)

13:25 – 14:30 hours – Show Jumping – Top 20 (8:25am-9:30am ET)

 

Viewers in the UK can watch Badminton on the BBC.  For other TV listings, see the Badminton site.


Photos: [Official Badminton Photos, Nico Morgan]

 

LISTEN to Badminton online: Go to the Badminton Homepage, and look for the radio link about halfway down the page on the right-hand side.


Websites: Badminton is probably the most thoroughly covered 4* on the planet so all of the regular equestrian media outlets and some irregular outlets are giving it a lot of attention.  Here’s a list of the websites to check for Badminton updates. [Horse and Hound, Badminton Homepage, H&C Badminton Videos][XC overview with videos and drawings of every jump][Ride Times] 

 

That’s all for now.  It goes without saying that we’ll have all of the top Badminton links right here on EN throughout the weekend and through the show jumping on Monday.

Thursday Video: Animated Badminton Course Walk, presented by Sylvan Farm Retirement Dispersal

By on May 2, 2013 5:15 pm -

The excitement for Badminton is building. Here’s a virtual coursewalk on cross-country, taking a tour of the grounds and giving a 3-D look at the track riders will tackle on Sunday.

 —

 

—-

Decorated sport horse breeder and USEF judge Judy Hedreen of Sylvan Farm has announced her retirement after more than thirty years. As part of her retirement, Hedreen will sell the majority of her horses via live auction on June 1, 2013 at 3pm PDT. Bid by phone, on-site or via the internet. The sale and horse preview will be streamed live via the Internet at www.sylvanfarmauction.com. This unprecedented access to their collection of homebreds includes show horses, young prospects, broodmares and a FEI licensed stallion. Low reserves will apply. A live video preview will be broadcast on May 31, 2013 at 4pm PDT

Rolex 2013: Jog and Show Jumping Photos from Kasey Mueller

By on May 1, 2013 10:00 am -

EN reader Kasey Mueller was one of the first to start sending in her photos from Rolex this year.  Kasey has been incredibly generous with her beautiful photos, and we decided to share a bunch of them here in their own post.  We have received a vast amount of images from other readers as well– fear not, they will be published in another gallery, soon!

From Kasey:

My name is Kasey Mueller and I am a photography addict (more commonly called a  freelance photographer). I have a passion- to capture/create memories for Eventers and their fans at every level of the sport.  I get excited before every horse show, Pony Club outing, or Horse Trials, wondering who and what I will see and capture that day. I hope that the memories of the competitions, including the adrenaline rushes and the smiles, live on for my subjects, every time they see themselves in one of my pictures.  If you would like a copy of these images, send me an email at [email protected].

Charlotte Agnew: Heading to Badminton

By on May 1, 2013 8:00 am -

Charlotte is one of Great Britain’s most promising Event Riders, having represented her country on both Junior and Young Rider teams – most notably winning team gold and finishing 4th individually on Little Beau at Blair Castle in 2007.

Charlotte graduated from Edinburgh University in 2011 with a 2:1 in English Literature.

She has been placed consistently, including finishing 9th at Blenheim in 2011 and 5th at Luhmuhlen CCI**** with the homebred Out of Africa (“Zulu”) in 2012.  Despite being a true British rider Charlotte is keen to remember her Scottish roots, and indeed she has been ranked the No. 1 Scottish Event rider in the FEI World Rankings for the last two years.

Supported by the lottery funded World Class Development program she now has her eyes firmly set on the 2016 Olympics.  Charlotte is excited to write for Eventing Nation as she prepares for Badminton just a few weeks away.  Thanks for writing, Charlotte, and thank you for reading.  For more, visit her website.  All photos used with permission.  Click here to read her first blog.

—

 

From Charlotte:

 

As I write this Zul has just had his last jump with Yogi before we head off to the big B.  He is feeling extremely well, and I am starting to feel a tinsy bit nervous…. I’ve been trying not to think about it too much, and have actually managed to stay relatively chilled I think, but there’s no escaping it now!!  Tomorrow morning he’s going for a final swim, and then we’ll be off –  woohoo – for what will undoubtedly be a seriously exciting week, regardless of how I go.

Finally the sun has decided to make an appearance, and it has been SUCH a treat eventing in the dry!  It started with Belton, which sadly Woody (Longwood) was unable to attend, so I ended up only having Zulu there.  He warmed up beautifully but very quickly, and as a result was slightly over-done by the time we came to do the test, which combined with a couple of ‘frisky’ mistakes kept us away from a really great mark.  Still, I was really pleased with him as he produced some very exciting work, and it’s been a while since he was at a big party.  Similarly, he had a couple of fences down show-jumping as a result of being quite enthusiastic, but the big plus was that we didn’t get any time faults, which proves (thankfully!) that my homework – under Yogi’s magic eye – has paid off.

Since Mark Phillips has taken over the cross-country design at Belton I have had some great rides there.  It’s always a bold track that encourages forward riding, with some tricky questions thrown in, which I think makes it ideal preparation for Bramham or Badminton.  Zul is feeling so much stronger this year, and it’s amazing looking back and remembering how fierce I had to be those two years ago to get our first Advanced clear!  He felt really switched on and well within himself, so I’m really hoping I get the same feeling at Badminton.  However I am going to have to put my foot down there – I can’t help protecting him a little now at the one day events, and I haven’t actually pushed him for the time since Luhmuhlen (as he missed Burghley), so am hoping I haven’t lost my inner speed demon!

Dumbleton had his first outing at Hambleden the following week, which was glorious on several levels.  Firstly it was so sunny I actually put on sunglasses whilst driving there, secondly my lovely friend Becca came to keep me company and cheer us on, and thirdly Dumble was a star.  He is a completely different horse to last year – so much more confident in himself and I think much more comfortable too – which has made the work a lot easier for him.  As a result he delicately sashayed his way around the arena for 28 in the very competitive Open Novice, and followed it up with a super double clear.  I really do love riding him, he’s such a sweet person and thrives on trust.  This weekend though was a true indication of why I am so glad that we have three phases in our sport, rather than just one – again Dumble did a lovely test, this time at Withington, but we got 40.  Okay there were a couple of minor things that meant it wasn’t absolutely perfect, but 12 marks was a bit ridiculous.  Perhaps it was just a reminder that I shouldn’t be complacent!  Eventing is certainly a great leveller.  Once again he jumped a fantastic double clear, and it reminded me of my JRN and Junior days with Little Beau, where we were always the highest climbers, but I would never have changed that – it’s so much nicer going home with a smile.

So we’re off to Badminton tomorrow, and most of all – providing we do actually get there – I will feel so proud that Zul, our little homebred star, who my whole family and team has nurtured so carefully for the last 13 years, is going to be competing at the biggest and most prestigious event in the world.  Who knows what will happen but I do hope that luck will be on our side as I’m sure we’ll both be giving it our best shot.  Feel free to follow the action on twitter – @Charlotte_Agnew!

2013 Rolex Photos: Dressage and Cross-Country, from Kasey Mueller

By on Apr 30, 2013 7:15 pm -

EN reader Kasey Mueller was one of the first to start sending in her photos from Rolex this year.  Kasey has been incredibly generous with her beautiful photos, and we decided to share a bunch of them here in their own post.  We have received a vast amount of images from other readers as well– fear not, they will be published in another gallery, soon!  If you have some great memories of Rolex to share, please send them to [email protected].

 

From Kasey:

My name is Kasey Mueller and I am a photography addict (more commonly called a  freelance photographer). I have a passion- to capture/create memories for Eventers and their fans at every level of the sport.  I get excited before every horse show, Pony Club outing, or Horse Trials, wondering who and what I will see and capture that day. I hope that the memories of the competitions, including the adrenaline rushes and the smiles, live on for my subjects, every time they see themselves in one of my pictures.  If you would like a copy of these images, send me an email at [email protected].

–

Lauren Nethery: The 2013 Kentucky Derby Field

By on Apr 30, 2013 5:42 pm -

 

For me, these are the final days of a two-month-long Monday filled with 2 Year-Old’s in Training, Keeneland, Rolex, and finally the Run for The Roses.  Perhaps next week I will finally get some sleep and holy cow, I’m ready for it!  The rest of the world (well, really just the American racing world), however, is on the edge of their seats watching the final works of 25 or so horses with keen interest, pouring of Daily Racing Forum’s and The Bloodhorse, and scraping together every last penny they can pinch for their FirstSaturdayInMay Betting Bankroll.  I’m here to give you just a little bit of insight into the top contenders and help you spend your hard earned dollars wisely if you choose to bet.  First and foremost, bookmark these two resources that are key for knowing all there is to know about every derby detail and putting that knowledge to good use:  KENTUCKYDERBY.COM andXPRESSBET.  Now, on to the horses (listed in order of points with my picks in bold):

–

Orb: Coming off two wins in the Fountain of Youth and the Florida Derby, this horse has settled into Churchill like he owns the place and has a jockey on board (Joel Rosario) that just set a single-meet wins record at Keeneland.  Hard to look to any other horse to win but when it comes down to it, the Derby is really just about who gets the best trip.

Verrazano: Undefeated in 4 starts.  Need I say more? (however, traditionally and statistically, he’s got nowhere to go but down)

Goldencents: A Louisville favorite because of his part-owner Rick Pitino, this horse has really been laying down some nice efforts with wins recorded in 3 stakes this year already.  I expect a solid run from this horse for at least a mile.  It remains to be seen if he’ll relish the extra quarter mile.

Java’s War: I watched this horse win the Bluegrass Stakes at Keeneland in person and he really made an impression.  He should tolerate dirt better than most other horses who record wins on polytrack and target the Derby as well.  I expect a good showing from him.

Overanalyze:  One of the favorites for a reason, this horse comes off to big wins at a mile and an eighth on dirt.  A leading trainer, jockey, and owner combination virtually assure that this horse will be on the board but remember, it’s not about how nice the horse that wins the Derby is, it’s about how good his trip was. 

Revolutionary: According to my super-secret inside sources, this horse is the only one of all of the workers so far that has still been pulling his rider around the gallop out and appears to be peaking.  The vets say he’s sound and happy, he looks the part, and he’s coming off two graded stakes wins.  I’m seeing dollar signs already. 

Lines Of Battle: The only foreign contingent in the Derby, this horse is coming off a win on a synthetic surface, which works against him.  He does, however, earn some points back for beating tough company in that race at a distance of 1-3/16th miles.  Owners Magnier, Tabor, and Smith (Coolmore) always like to have a Derby player, regardless of their aptitude, though.

Vyjack:  This horse would have to outrun his pedigree to do well on Saturday and is backing up with added distance.  Fun factoid though: this horse galloped for much of his career in a hackmore after a few episodes of freezing up on the track.

Will Take Charge:  My sentimental favorite, this horse goes to post with Jon Court up for D.Wayne Lucas, who holds more records than a Virgin store.  He is improving with distance, likes the dirt, and will be a good price.  Worth a $10 win-place-show bet for sure. 

Itsmyluckyday: A winner at a mile and a sixteenth only to back up to second in the 1 – 1/8th mile Florida Derby, I don’t think the added distance will be to this horse’s liking.

Black Onxy:  Won the Spiral Stakes at Turfway but that race, run of polytrack, has not consistently produced a legitimate Derby contender, aside from Animal Kingdom (2011).  However, with a wide, even blaze and two tall socks (thought they are on the same side if I’m going to be picky), this horse may get the ‘pretty pony’ award.

Palace Malice: While this horse is bred for the distance, he’s bred to be a better four-year-old (Curlin/Royal Anthem).  While he has improved from third at a mile and a sixteenth to second at a mile and an eighth, it may be that the switch from dirt to synthetic moved him up more than they extra 1/16th of a mile.  Not a huge in-the-money contender in my opinion.

Normandy Invasion: Coming off of two second place efforts on dirt at a mile and an eighth in which he was really storming home, a mile and a quarter should but this horse very near to the front.  A successful Derby jockey and an on-the-rise trainer also bode well. 

Frac Daddy: Coming off of a second in the Arkansas Derby, this horse is almost got up to win at a a mile and an eighth so he should relish the 1 ¼ mile distance with a little more room to close.

Mylute: The opposite of Itsmyluckyday, this horse has improved from third at a mile and a sixteenth to second at a mile and an eighth.  I expect the distance to help this horse’s chances, despite his pedigree that speaks to sprinting ability, and he has relished a surface at Fair Grounds that is similar to Churchill.  With female jockey Rosie Napravnik up, this horse will be getting some of my money, especially if it rains. 

Oxbow: The distance will likely not suit this horse, who has struggled at a mile and an eighth.  While he does like dirt, he really just doesn’t stand out to me as a solid contender for an in-the-money placing.

Falling Sky: This horse is bred to be a star at distances shorter than a mile and after two well-beaten efforts in the Tampa Bay Derby (3rd) and Arkansas Derby (4th), there isn’t much to write home about.

Charming Kitten: Third in the Bluegrass Stakes at Keeneland on polytrack, this horse isn’t really bred to be a dirt runner (sire Kitten’s Joy excelled on the grass).  I broke this horse’s full sibling, Queen’splatekitten, three winters ago and, as they are both out of a dam that failed to win in 11 tries, it’s astonishing they have run so well.

Golden Soul: Another horse bred for turf, this colt, out of an unraced dam, doesn’t seem to hold much promise at all and is backing up in his success with added distance.

Fear The Kitten:  This horse is squeaking in with only SIX points (while the rest of the horses have between 20 and 150) and is really just looking like a spot-filler in the starting gate.  I echo the comment from Charming Kitten that these Kitten’s Joy horses rarely take to dirt but, if anything is working for this horse, a little more distance might move him up.

Phillip Dutton’s Thoughts: Add a CIC*** to Rolex?

By on Apr 30, 2013 3:56 pm -

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Eagle at Rolex, photo by Kasey Mueller

 

Phillip Dutton hypothesizes that some of the “Tale of Two Courses” effect at Rolex this year– with the morning horses going great, and the afternoon horses having trouble– could possibly be attributed to the large lunch break and ride times spread widely throughout the day.  Perhaps riders lost their edge just sitting around all day, or took the course for granted after it rode so well in the morning?  Either way, Phillip suggests adding a CIC*** division in addition to the CCI****.  This is not unprecedented, as for many years Rolex ran two divisions; most recently back in 2004 with the CCI**** long format and “modified format” events, but the four-star started back in 1998 alongside the traditional three-star event.  Prior to that, it also ran with an Advanced horse trial (selection trials for Olympics some years), and even a CCI* alongside the CCI***.   Despite Rolex being the only four-star in the US, it is unlikely to ever be as oversubscribed as Badminton, and filling the day with another division would surely be enjoyed by spectators.

 

From Phillip’s Facebook Page:

“I think this year was a very successful Rolex for the sport. There was a great competition and an exciting finish for the crowds. I do feel however that the organizers need to look closely at the schedule on Saturday and how it runs. With only about 40 horses running cross country at five minute intervals there are a lot of breaks with inevitable scratches, and the long lunch break is particularly a problem. I feel this year with the morning horses doing the course so easily riders in the afternoon were pretty complacent and possibly not riding with enough aggression and respect for the course. I think that a complementary class should be added – perhaps a CIC***? The CIC*** could run in the morning and then the CCI**** could still be the feature class in the afternoon. This would be much more exciting for the spectators and better mentally for the competitors.”

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: Helmet Cam from Loudoun XC

By on Apr 30, 2013 2:23 pm -

Believe it or not, there were other events this weekend aside from Rolex.  Here’s a helmet cam from Kyle Smith and Collinwood Super going Novice at Loudoun Horse Trials in Leesburg, VA.  Thanks to Jackie for sending it in to us!

 —

 

—

Why SpectraVET?

Reliable. Effective. Affordable.

SpectraVET is committed to providing only the highest-quality products and services to our customers, and to educating the world in the science and art of laser therapy.

We design and manufacture the broadest range of clinically-proven veterinary therapeutic laser products, which are represented and supported worldwide by our network of specialist distributors and authorised service centres.

Wanted: Your Scenes From Rolex 2013

By on Apr 29, 2013 2:47 pm -

Chilli Morning and William Fox-Pitt, photo by Kasey Mueller

 

Last year, readers sent us dozens of photos from their Rolex experiences.  Beautiful pictures of competitors on course, dogs enjoying a day out, and gifts from the trade fair were all featured.  If you have some photos to share in this year’s gallery, send them to us at [email protected]!   (JPEG attachments work best.)

 

Thanks and we hope you enjoyed Rolex 2013!

In Case You Missed It: Best of EN’s Rolex Coverage 2013

By on Apr 29, 2013 9:08 am -

William Fox-Pitt and Seacookie TSF into the Head of the Lake, photo by Kasey Mueller

 

Perhaps you were in the rainforest in Brazil over the weekend, or at your brother’s wedding, or otherwise inconvenienced when it came to following all the action at Rolex.  If so, you missed one heck of a weekend out in Lexington; a showdown between the Silver Fox and Big Willie, with bases loaded for both of them heading into Badminton this week.  To save you the effort of flipping through pages and pages of daily coverage, here’s a summary of how it all went down this weekend on Eventing Nation.

 

2013 Rolex Posts from Eventing Nation:

  • A Few Questions For Rolex – John gives his thoughts on this year’s competition; who will win, fan favorites, and wonders will the US ever win its own four-star again?
Wednesday 4/24/13
  • 46 Horses Move on after Rolex First Horse Inspection – John checks in from the jog.  All horses passed, though Andrew Nicholson had to re-present Quimbo.  Emily Beshear did not present Here’s To You, as Quincy may have tweaked himself and the best option is to save him for another day.
Thursday 4/25/13
  • Becky Holder and Can’t Fire Me Move Into Second – A brief recap after the second morning session of Thursday’s dressage.  Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda have been re-assigned to Friday, as Cambalda reportedly got loose Thursday morning and slipped on the pavement.
  • A quick update on Cambalda – It is confirmed that Cambalda got away from his groom while lunging Thursday morning, slipped on pavement, and pending a vet inspection Jenni Brannigan will compete on Friday instead.
Friday 4/26/13
  • Five Notes from David O’Connor’s EOTF Walk – John tagged along with David’s coursewalk for High Performance event owners.  The combinations on course look for a forward ride, and don’t underestimate the hills at the Horse Park!
Saturday 4/27/13
  • Rolex Cross-Country Lunchtime Update – Jenni Autry quickly recaps the morning rides, which went quite well, starting off with a superb ride from William Fox-Pitt and Seacookie TSF.
  • A Tale of Two Courses – John breaks down the day of cross-country action, discussing how differently the course rode in the afternoon.
  • Rolex Saturday Interviews – Watch post-XC video interviews with Meghan O’Donoghue, Buck Davidson, Daniel Clasing, Kristi Nunnink, Kristin Schmolze, Peter Barry, Caitlin Silliman, Jan Byyny, Hawley Bennett-Awad, Emily Renfroe and James Alliston.
Sunday, 4/28/13
  • Andrew Nicholson Seals the Deal with Quimbo – Jenni Autry reports on all the action from Show Jumping day, which saw only 5 clear rounds (4 double clear).  William Fox-Pitt finished second, sandwiched between Andrew’s two horses.  Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM were the highest US pair, in 4th.  OTTB war horse Donner had a brilliant time at his first four-star, finishing on his dressage score in 5th. Meghan O’Donoghue and Pirate won the HSBC award for highest-placed first-timer at Rolex, coming in 12th.
  • Rolex: A Weekend of Expected and Unexpected Results – John gives his thoughts on the weekend, with notes from the press conference.  William Fox-Pitt admitted he broke his finger during show jumping, but we all know that doesn’t matter because he can still jump clear with one hand tied behind his back!  Andrew Nicholson said he was proud of Calico Joe, calling  him “not the best show jumper,” but despite 3 rails hung on for third.  And Quimbo?  Andrew now knows the horse has the stamina to make time on a four-star course, and little worries in the show jumping!

 

Samantha Clark’s Photo Journal: Sights From Rolex 2013

  • Getting Ready for Rolex Part II – Samantha meets the early arrivals, including Andrew Nicholson and Quimbo/Calico Joe, Fernhill Urco, and Kristi Nunnink with R-Star.
  • Monday at Rolex – Arrivals Day –  Catching up with more riders and horses as they settle into the Horse Park, including WFP and Chilli Morning, Tom and Magette Meagher, and lots of other photos.
  • Tuesday at Rolex Kentucky CCI**** 2013 – Samantha watches various riders and horses schooling on the flat and hacking about before the real competition begins.  Plus, photos from riders’ visit to the UK Children’s Hospital.

Today’s Interviews from Rolex Kentucky

By on Apr 26, 2013 9:20 pm -

The RolexKentucky youtube page is full of interviews with riders at this year’s three-day event.  Click on a photo or link below to watch the video on youtube.

[Lounge Interview: Andrew Nicholson and Jonelle Richards]

—-

[Buck Davidson Interview]

—-

[William Fox-Pitt Interview]

—-

[Andrew Nicholson Interview]

—-

[Boyd Martin Interview]

—-

[James Alliston Interview]

—-

[Alexandra Knowles Interview: 2013 Rolex Kentucky]

—-

Watch more at www.rk3de.org

—-

Lastly, a video from Practical Horseman:

William’s Comments on Chilli Morning after his Rolex-leading Ride

By on Apr 26, 2013 5:56 pm -

Photo by Jenni Autry

 

Rolex has kindly shared the following interview with us from William Fox-Pitt.  Many thanks to Rolex for their continued support of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event and the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing.  It was also announced today that Rolex is sponsoring a Grand Slam of Show Jumping, including the Grands Prix of Spruce Meadows in Canada, Geneva in Switzerland and Germany’s World Equestrian Festival, CHIO Aachen.  Thank you, Rolex!

 

All hotting up here at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day event with William Fox-Pitt lying in 1st place on Chilli Morning after the dressage phase, with Andrew Nicholson lying in both 2nd place on Quimbo and also lying in 3rd place on Calico Joe!

–

Q. William – how was that?

He’s an exciting horse – I’ve had him for a year now and he’s produced back home by Nick Gauntlett who’s done a superb job with him so I was very lucky he came to me last spring. He really has been very good since then. But this is difference for him – the atmosphere is electric – so many more people – massive difference to Pau so a different track, but you’ve got to give it a go!

He’s a classy horse and I’m very lucky to have him but there’s still some more good ones to come and it’s just the dressage!

He’s a rare horse in that he’s at 4 star level as a stallion – he’d be the only one here – there’s an added pressure on him without a doubt – I’ve always said that if he was a gelding he would be even better but he’s got an amazing presence and he loves being in there saying “look at me all the way – I’m the king” and when you are riding that kind of horse it is a great feeling. I knew he could do a good test but then actually you are a bit more nervous because you don’t want to make a mistake and that was the bit of pressure added, but I would much rather have that than one that’s learning and not up to the job so from that point of view –

He’s covered some mares so he knows his job but he’s got an amazing temperament – he’s travelled over here with all the other horses from the UK – he’s a very kind and dear horse – he’s a lovely personality actually – you can give him a good cuddle and he will never put his ears back – he’s a real gentleman!

–

Q. You had a brilliant test in there – did you think you were going to score 33?

I hoped it would be in the 30’s.  As it was going I was thinking “this is going quite well” as you do and I had a little sneaky preview of the scoreboard once and thought “OK right!”   You cant help but look and it can be quite demoralizing but I thought it was worth the risk, but I did feel very confident and hopefully he will finish on that mark and it will be very exciting but as you know things change a lot here there’s some big questions and a superb course for tomorrow with lots of ‘skinnys’ and turns and distances that need to be thought about and I’m looking forward to riding him – he’s fit and well and the footing is amazing considering the rain we had on Wednesday.

–

Q. You chose to ride him second tomorrow – reasons for that?

I know Sea Cookie so well and he’s been here before and I’ve had him all his four star career or since he was eight so he was a good horse to ride first. Chilli Morning I don’t – there is a little bit of advantage maybe of watching others go first but a little bit of a risk in that if the conditions change you can find the footing can slow you up a lot but I hope it was the right thing, but also Chilli Morning was the first to go in Pau and that’s not a slot that us riders like so I thought I can’t do that to him again!

 

Twitter Wrap-up: Thursday Dressage at Rolex 2013

By on Apr 25, 2013 7:41 pm -

After a rocky start for the digital supporters, resulting in watching William Fox-Pitt and Seacookie from outer space, USEF got their feed going (with audio even!) and the EN Live Blog was flowing smoothly.  We narrowly avoided massive site melt-down here at EN, but the ship stayed afloat and we all enjoyed a great day of coverage from 2013 Rolex Kentucky.

Missed it?  Check out the USEF Network’s On-Demand videos.

 

 

Meg Kep’s reaction to Andrew Nicholson’s ride of the day on Calico Joe:

 

 

Does Meg Kep have some competition?

 

 

Hawley Bennett-Awad and Phillip (Phyllis?) Dutton were busy meeting fans today:

— –  

 

The USEFNetwork’s free live stream has been a huge hit today, causing a drop in productivity at work and distracted students nationwide.

 
(more…)

Video: Andrew Nicholson and Calico Joe score 40.8 [Updated with Becky and Can’t Fire Me, Kristin and Ballylaffin Bracken]

By on Apr 25, 2013 3:50 pm -

Andrew Nicholson and Calico Joe had a near flawless test that the judges rewarded with a 40.8.  He currently sits in the lead going into Friday’s dressage.  [Scores]

–

—–

–

Becky Holder hasn’t missed a beat with Courageous Comet’s retirement, as Can’t Fire Me put in a beautiful test, reminiscent of his stablemate, to sit in second with 44.2.

—-

–

Everyone on the Live Blog was raving about the lovely Ballylaffin Bracken and Kristin Schmolze.  The horse is still a bit green at this level, but you can see his potential as he stepped up to score a 53.7 to tie for 6th.

—————-

Many thanks to the USEF for their FREE live streaming coverage of the Rolex Kentucky 3-Day Event.  Check out more videos as they become available on the USEF Network Youtube Page and at USEFNetwork.com.

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Helmet Cam XC from Holly Hill

By on Apr 24, 2013 12:00 pm -

While we wait for the Rolex jog, enjoy this cool helmet cam and side video combined from cross-country at Holly Hill HT with Ginny Harrison and The Professor. According to Ginny, “this was ‘Dexter’s’ first prelim, so we went a little slower and he was a little green at the mound and the water but was very brave and had a great confidence building run!”  [Results]

–

–

 

Holly Hill Event Report

By on Apr 23, 2013 3:05 pm -
Brooke Schafer kindly sent us an event write-up from Holly Hill Horse Trials in Benton, Louisiana.  You may remember Brooke and her horse Mighty Military from a story she wrote for EN back in February.  We always appreciate updates, and especially included with event reports!  Many thanks to Brooke for writing, and thank you for reading.  Send your stories to [email protected]!
From Brooke:

Julie Norman & Double O'Seven, owned by Pat Willcox, competing in Open Prelim at Holly Hill.

For the last four years I have looked forward to the third weekend in April and the last weekend in October as those two special weekends host the incredible Holly Hill Horse Trials. This weekend Bob and Tracy Hewlett’s Holly Hill Farm in Benton, Louisiana opened up its gates once again for the Spring Horse Trials. There were over 300 entries with more than 275 competitors coming out of the start box. The farm boasted beautiful new facilities for the competitors as well as new footing in the Stadium Jumping arena and added jumps to the cross country course. With a chilly start it turned out to be a beautiful weekend.
Local Benton riders Sydney Conley-Elliott and Julie Norman had great rides on client-owned horses and also promoted their own businesses through fundraising events. Sydney Conley-Elliott recently sold her Advanced gelding Pancho Villa to Boyd Martin of Windurra and is looking to create a new syndication while Julie Norman is actively working to compete at Rolex 2014 with her self-owned gelding Consensus (winner of the inaugural Texas Rose Horse Trials Advanced division in Tyler TX last month).
On a personal note, I accomplished my goal of competing my horse Mighty Military (previously featured in the story “From Race Tracks to Galloping Lanes” http://eventingnation.com/home/from-race-tracks-to-galloping-lanes.html) in our first Training division and while we didn’t come home with a blue ribbon on the dash of the truck, we did leave a lasting impression on our audience as “Ghost” performed some naughty airs above the ground moves in Dressage. We’ll have to work on that.
It was also a bittersweet weekend for me as it is the last time I will compete at Holly Hill Farm before moving back to Lexington Kentucky this coming weekend. I will miss my Holly Hill family greatly and want to encourage anyone who has never visitied this great farm to stop in for a visit or bring a horse to school. The level or riding and horsemanship at Holly Hill is second to none and the local riders are sure to put Louisiana on the eventing map.

Kelsey Regan & Revelation (self-owned, local rider, horse was foaled and raised at Holly Hill, competing in Intermediate)

Julie Norman & Landmark's Double Clear, owned by Barbara McQuiller.