Area V’s Lisa Takada gives Wishbone a big pat after their NAYC CICOY2* dressage test. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
There are so many ways to follow along with the action here at Rebecca Farm: live stream, social media, and colorful media coverage coming at you from all directions. Keeping up with it all is a full-time job — our hard-working, good-looking friends at USEF, USEA and The Chronicle are all here, and even between the lot of us there’s too much going on to cover it all!
So if you actually have a full-time job, and you only have time for a fast-and-dirty overview, these daily recap videos from Ride On Video are a great place to start. They cover not just the headlining championships and upper-level divisions, but provide a snapshot of all the action swirling around here at Rebecca.
If you missed it, check out our story on yesterday’s NAYC CICOY2* dressage here. Just tuning in? Spoiler alert: Area II is in the lead — that’s Olivia Dutton/Mr. Medicott, Ryan Keefe/Flintstar, Alexa Lapp/Cambalda, and Tayler Stewart/Ideal Contini.
Leading the NAYC CICOY2* division individually is Alexandra Baugh and Ballingowan Pizazz, on a score of 30.8. Watch their test, courtesy of USEF Network!
There are a whole lot of stars in the sky out here in Montana. Some beam down big and bright like Christmas lights, some swirl in glittering clusters, and every now and again one goes sprinting across the chalkboard black sky. It’s an impossible performance to rival, but you could at least string together an impressive constellation — if not a small galaxy — with all the stars on the FEI records of this year’s NAYC mounts.
The Area II CICOY2* team, in particular, is backed by serious horsepower. The squad includes two Olympic veterans, Mr. Medicott and Flintstar, plus 2017 USEA Horse of the Year Cambalda and three-star horse Ideal Contini. They sit atop the NAYC CICOY2* leaderboard after dressage on a combined score of 97.9, ahead of the 2nd placed mix team from Area I, IV and VIII (101.8) and 3rd placed Area VI (113.2).
The riders of these veterans, however, want you to know they aren’t just pushbutton ponies. They have button(s), plural, plus a complicated dashboard of various dials, gears, levers and blink-y lights that take time to figure out and skill to navigate — and hair-trigger alarm systems that go off when you get it wrong.
Tayler Stewart and Ideal Contini. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
The top placed Area II rider is Tayler Stewart with Ideal Contini, who sit 2nd on a score of 31.2. This is Tayler’s second time contesting NAYC with the 2003 Westphalian gelding (Contini x Riviera Wonder) owned by herself, Emily and Tyler Stewart — they placed 7th in the CCIJ1* in 2016.
Prior to his partnership with Tayler, Ideal Contini was competed through the three-star level by Sally Cousins. Moving from a professional’s multi-horse program into the center of a young rider’s universe was a big shift for the horse, but Tayler believes it was a positive one.
“It’s a very unique relationship,” she says. “We built a relationship that is so much trust. When I make a mistake he helps me out, and I have to know when he’s not feeling his best. He was meant to be a Young Rider horse. He loves it.”
Of their test today, Tayler says she was thrilled, especially after she saw the score. “I never quite know what I’m going to get when I go in the ring — he can lay down a good score or a not-so-good score — but I think I prepared as best I could for this test. He was just really steady and really game today, and he’s not always that way, so I was really proud of him and myself for riding smart and not just trying to get through it.”
Alexa Lapp and Cambalda. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Alexa Lapp has the ride on Cambalda, a 16-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Balda Beau x Cathy’s Lady), who developed into one of the best three-star horses in the biz with Jennie Brannigan. They scored a 32.6 today to sit 3rd heading into cross country.
“I’m so lucky,” Alexa says. “He was really good. I think we had a couple miscommunications … he was really lead-change happy, he ended up doing one in the mediums, and he walked a little early, but he was just trying to be good. I think sometimes I ask too early for things because I’m used to a greener horse and he’s kind of sharp.”
It’s fun to watch Alexa ride — she looks like a mini-Jennie in the tack. And Ping’s owners Tim and Nina Gardner are here at Rebecca to cheer the pair on, to Alexa’s delight: “They’re the bomb!”
This is Alexa’s second time on an Area II Young Riders Championship team, having contested the CCIJ1* in 2016 with her horse Paprika. Having such an accomplished partner this go-round might make it seem like there are higher stakes, but she says they’ve all taken comfort in the team experience.
“I think we’ve had a bit of pressure as a team, but it’s really been nice though because we all have even amounts of pressure,” she says. “I’m on a really good three-star horse, and they are on Olympic horses, and Tayler’s horse is really experienced, but everyone has been super supportive of each other. It’s been really really cool. I love all the girls on the two-star and one-star teams and everybody is cheering each other on.”
Olivia Dutton and Mr Medicott. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Olivia Dutton is competing Mr. Medicott, a 19-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Cruising x Slieveluachra) owned by the Mr. Medicott Syndicate, whose track record includes the 2012 Olympic Games with Karen O’Connor and a 4th place finish at Kentucky last year with Olivia’s father Phillip. Olivia and “Cave” sit 6th after dressage on a score of 34.1.
“A lot people think that since they’ve done four-star and everything that they’re so easy to ride, but they’re really hard!,” Olivia says. “But they have so much experience and they teach you so well. I’m having so much fun learning from Cave.”
Of their performance today, Olivia says, “It’s taken me quite a bit to learn what buttons to push but he really listened to me today. I thought he was going to be a bit strong, but he really came back to me, so I was really happy with him.”
Ryan Keefe and Flintstar. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Rounding out the Area II crew is Ryan Keefe and her partner Flintstar, a 2000 New Zealand bred Thoroughbred gelding (Zabalu x Croftlea Firequeen) owned by Rumsey Keefe. Flintstar was competed through the four-star level by New Zealand’s Jonelle Price, with a resume that includes the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
The pair scored a 35.4, good enough for 8th place. “It’s not really a secret that dressage isn’t his favorite, but he was actually really good today and he kept it together and I felt like I could ride him a bit more instead of just going through the motions,” Ryan says.
Cross country, on the other hand, is Flintstar’s wheelhouse. “He’s given me a lot of confidence after my last horses that weren’t as reliable. I know I can give him a few pulls around course and kick him and he’ll go as long as he sees it — or even if he doesn’t see it until the last stride,” Ryan says with a laugh.
Area II team, from L to R: Tayler Stewart, Alexa Lapp, Olivia Dutton and Ryan Keefe. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
The Area II Young Riders team is coached by Holly Payne-Caravella with chef d’equipe as Meg Kepferle. The Area II YR coordinator is Chris Donovan.
Area II’s all-important groom roster is comprised of Caitlin O’Roark, Dylan Phillips, Zoe Bruno, Colette Leber, Cori Jarman, Anna Fitzhugh and Ella Braundel.
“I think we’re very lucky this year with Area II that we have a very strong support system behind us,” says Tayler. “They really do believe in us, and it’s not just that our horses are great, but they believe in us as riders, too. We have this pressure and we can take it on.”
Alexandra Baugh & Ballingowan Pizazz. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Leading the NAYC CICOY2*division individually is Alexandra Baugh and Ballingowan Pizazz — another veteran turned Young Rider star. “Mango,” a 16-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Obos Quality x Rocklea, by Leabeg) owned by Altorac Farm, was Shannon Lilley’s mount for the 2011 Pan Am Games in Guadalajara, after which Michael Pollard competed him through the three-star level.
For most of their dressage test, Alexandra’s face was a picture of concentration. But when the pair began their final 10-meter half circle onto the centerline, a big grin crept onto her face as it sunk in that they’d nailed it.
“He was absolutely perfect,” she says. “That was definitely one of our best tests to date. He’s been a bit of a challenge, I’ve had him for two years, and I feel like we’ve finally gotten to know each other more and figured it all out.
Alexandra and Mango are representing the mixed team of Area I, IV and VIII. This is their third trip to the NAYC — the pair finished 2nd here in the CCIJ1* and were 4th the year before that, when NAYC was held at Colorado Horse Park — and we wish them and all this year’s NAYC competitors the best of luck this weekend!
NAYC 2018 continues tomorrow with CCIJ1* dressage, followed by cross country Saturday and show jumping Sunday.
Kate Gillespie and Renegade Reno in the Twin Rivers CIC3* in 2009. Photo courtesy of the USEA.
Ten years ago, Kate Gillespie stormed around the CCI2* cross country track at Rebecca Farm on her way to a red ribbon finish aboard her beloved partner Renegade Reno. A year later she returned to tackle the CIC3,* their debut at the level. The pair’s skyrocket trajectory continued in 2010, when they were short-listed for the 2010 World Equestrian Games for Kate’s home country of South Africa.
Kate and Reno’s climb to the top of the sport was a testament to her hard-headed perseverance and belief in the tall, dark and handsome yet extremely opinionated horse. She bought Reno despite his renowned skill-set of bucking, biting, rearing and kicking, and in the early days he was prone to hitting the eject button on her with abandon. But Kate, a tough cookie herself, stuck it out and their hard work paid off.
“He’s pretty feisty, but that’s what makes the good ones,” Kate told a reporter after winning the Twin Rivers CIC1* in 2007.
Takes one to know one, Kate.
Kate Gillespie and Renegade Reno in the Twin Rivers CIC3* in 2009. Photo courtesy of the USEA.
Sadly, the equestrian community lost Kate earlier this summer. A warrior until the end, she kicked on bravely and quietly in the years following a debilitating riding accident in 2012 while working for Steffen and Shannon Peters, whose world-class dressage operation she ran for 15 years.
Those whose lives she touched are quick to point out that beneath her force-of-nature personality, she had a tender and giving yet vulnerable heart.
“Kate was a trainer, friend, sister, daughter, aunt, confidant, a shoulder you could lean on, a fire breathing dragon, and tough chick through and through,” reflects Tamie Smith of Next Level Eventing, for whom Kate worked in recent years. “But what she was deep down was a chronic pain sufferer. So many people all over are suffering from similar situations.”
“She was someone that if you needed anything she would drop everything to be there,” Tamie says.
Photo via Kate Gillespie’s Facebook.
Bunnie Sexton says Kate was hugely influential to her own riding career, as a friend and competitor at the upper levels who had her share of riding with injuries.
“When I felt like I couldn’t do it, Kate had a tough but loving way of telling me to buck up,” she says. “She had such a talent, and event while she was dealing with much more serious limitations she got me through the last few months of fear and pain with my dual knee replacements. She made a huge imprint on my life in what seems like such a short time. And although I admired her riding and talent for teaching tremendously, it was her compassion and middle-of-the-night ‘text me if you are struggling’ huge heart that I will miss so much, and always be grateful for.”
Kate’s friends and supporters will be wearing South African ribbon at Rebecca Farm to honor Kate’s memory. Pictured: Madison Tempkin and Dr. Hart in the CICOY2*. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
A community effort is now underway to commemorate Kate’s extraordinary life, including a new memorial jump to be built in her honor at Ken and Bunnie Sexton’s Shepherd Ranch in Santa Ynez, California. The jump, to include Beginner Novice through Prelim options, will be constructed with the guidance of course designer James Atkinson.
“We would be honored to have a jump at Shepherd Ranch that reflects Kate — intimidating at first glance but ultimately the jump that brings out the best in horse and rider,” Bunnie says.
“We wanted to honor her memory for what we all knew she was to each of us, and that was a kind and gentle soul deep down. I know it will be something she will be very proud of,” Tamie says.
Paypal donations for the jump can be made here — please reference the jump in your memo. Donors’ names will be added to the jump, as well as provided with a South African flag ribbon to wear at Rebecca Farm in Kate’s honor. Additionally, a memorial will be held on July 28 at 2 p.m. at Tucalota Creek Ranch in Temecula, California.
Chris Talley and stallion supermodel Sandro’s Star, hopeful future baby-daddy of my superpony mare Princess! Many thanks to Sandro and his team for taking the time between Great Meadow and Rebecca Farm to help knock her up, fingers crossed! Photo by Leslie Wylie.
The sun was shining down on the Event at Rebecca Farm today as the FEI, NAYC and USEA Classic Series divisions took to the runway for the first horse inspection. It’s absolutely breathtaking out here — green grass stretching for miles, dramatic blue peaks on the horizon, and a warm, hair-tussling breeze.
Looking easy-breezy-beautiful out there, competitors! We’ve on the front end of a long weekend in eventing paradise … what’s not to smile about, really?
Helen Bouscaren and Ebay. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
In addition to CCI3*, CIC3*, CCI2* and CCI1* FEI divisions, Rebecca Farm is hosting NAYC eventing as well as Novice and Training Three-Days, both of which attracted dozens of entries. The first horse inspection took the better part of the day, starting at 10 a.m. and wrapping late in the afternoon, a testament to the success of this destination event.
Both the three-star divisions are compact — the CIC3* has 11 entries, and the CCI3* has 12 — but mighty, a fun mix of experienced pathfinders and a few making their debut at the level. They hail from both coasts; you can review the list 2018 Rebecca Farm Travel Grant recipients here.
The FEI divisions were presented before the Ground Jury of Christina Klingspor, Jane Hamlin and Peter Gray. One CCI3* pair, Ellen Doughty-Hume and Sir Oberon, was held but passed upon re-inspection. EN’s in-house fortune teller Maggie Deatrick has used some combination of calculator and crystal ball to deduce a watch-list of CCI3* pairs with an eye on the win — we’ll be sharing those “By the Number” predictions first thing tomorrow.
A few photos from the CIC3*/CCI3* horse inspection:
Frankie Thieriot Stutes and Chatwin. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Sabrina Glaser and Rembrandt. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Maya Black and Mowgli. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Jenn McFall and High Times. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Kim Liddell and Eye of the Storm. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Hawley Bennett-Awad and Jollybo. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Alexis Helffrich and London Town. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Kristen Bond and Enough Already. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Forty-four out of 45 NAYC entries were green-lighted by the Ground Jury of Jo Young, Robert Stevenson and Judy Hancock to proceed to dressage. Two horses, Annah Yoder’s Ern More Cash (Area V) in the CCIJ1* and Sophie Tice’s Mojo (Area VI) in the CICOY2*, were sent to the hold box. Mojo was accepted upon re-inspection but Ern More Cash was sadly not accepted — bad luck, Annah. The three-star had my camera lens’ attention today, but I promise the NAYC competitors a full jog photo gallery on Sunday!
Andrea Baxter and Indy 500 were among several competitors sporting a Halt Canter at X quarter mark. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
Novice and Training horse trial division dressage is already on the books, with Classic Three-Day and NAYC dressage taking to the sandbox tomorrow and dressage for the two- and three-star FEI divisions to follow on Friday. With so many divisions running simultaneously, it’s a challenge to keep up with everything that is going on, but you know EN is on the case!
I don’t know who he is or what lady eventer he belongs to (good job dragging him to Kentucky!), but as the proud owner of a #horseshowboyfriend turned #horseshowhusband myself (look at him go!) …
One-hundred fifty editions of #EventerProblems in and still going strong. That’s worth a congratulations … or something. Keep ’em coming, EN — we know you will (because as long as there are horses, there will be problems). Here’s to another 150!
Up with the sun? You’re right on time to catch the Event Rider Masters CIC3* cross country action at Haras de Jardy. The first rider leaves the box at 12:30 p.m. local time/6:30 a.m. EST. Don’t forget you can watch all the ERM action at Haras de Jardy for free at this link.
Show jumping has already wrapped and dressage leader Alexander Bragg (GBR) and Zagreb is still out front, having turned in a foot-perfect round. Alexander and the 14-year-old Dutch Warmblood stallion (Perion x Renera, by Nagano), owned by Sally Ellicot, a personal best of 23.6. You can find the rest of the scores here. Check out a cross country course preview here.
For the fifth and penultimate event in the 2018 Event Rider Masters series we head to Haras de Jardy, a famous Thoroughbred stud in a western suburb of Paris.
The competition is underway, with dressage taking place today from 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. local time (4:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. EST). Check out the dressage ride times here. Division trailblazers Michael Jung and Corazon have the lead at the lunch break on a 26.9 but there are plenty of heavy-hitters still to go, including ERM series leader Chris Burton with Cooleys Land. Lots of good commentary and you can even chime into the chat thread yourself. Watch live now!
ERM Haras de Jardy continues with show jumping and cross country tomorrow. Check out the course preview here. Vive la ERM!
The SAP Speedy Snail Splash on the Jardy ERM CIC3* course. Photo courtesy of CrossCountryApp.
Faster than a speeding snail, the Event Rider Masters circuit races on this weekend with Leg 5 at the Jardy International Eventing Show. The setting: Haras de Jardy, a famous Thoroughbred stud in a western suburb of Paris. Established in 1890, the venue’s centerpiece is a century-old stable yard, iconic clock tower and indoor riding school that looks like something out of a storybook, surrounded by mixed meadows and woodlands. Enchanting!
Photo via Wikimedia Commons.
Jardy is the fifth and penultimate event in the 2018 ERM series, with Blair Castle as the grand finale August 25-26. Australia’s Chris Burton earned himself the top spot on the 2018 Series Leaderboard after a stellar performance in Leg 4 at Barbury Castle — can anyone catch him? All of the top six riders in the series are heading to Jardy and the stage is set for an epic battle over the 2018 Series Podium.
Here’s the CIC3* course preview from our friends at CrossCountryApp. Many thanks to Paul Tapner for recording.
The action begins bright (er, still dark if you’re stateside) on Saturday with Michael Jung and Corazon at 10:30 a.m. local time/4:30 a.m. EST. Go Eventing!
“Still looking to trade my TB filly for something with a penis. I can’t handle females of any species. Are you happy? Are you going to cry? Will this piss you off today? Is the color of my shirt deeply offensive to you? I can’t tell.
“I get males. Literally everything in my life is a male. 4 male children, 1 male husband, 2 male dogs. I get them. They may be dumb but they’re consistently dumb. No surprises there. I don’t like surprises. I like boring. I’m really boring.
“Josie is a 4 year old OTTB, although I’m being generous with that term. She was on the track. She trained. She did not start because she decided the gate or the required speed or the color of her saddle towel were displeasing and that was that. She is super fancy. Big time hunter potential movement. 16h and big bodied, she is starting to fill out and look like a real horse. She came off the track at the beginning of her 3 year old year and then sat around for a year doing absolutely nothing…which she liked. A lot. I restarted her about 2 months ago and her opinion on having a job to do is that she’d rather not. She needs a rider that makes her do it. Once she realizes being a free loader for life isn’t an option, she works nicely. If you let her walk all over you, she will take full advantage and laugh doing it.
“She is sound, currently barefoot, gets along well in a mixed turnout group. Clips, bathes, really likes to eat. She wasn’t born here so she must load. Going w/t/c in a western saddle because I’m cool like that and I like something to hang onto in case she decides I’d look better on the ground. She’s never gotten me off, but she definitely needs a rider that can handle a temper tantrum buck and get after her. She knocks it off if you make her. There is a really nice, fancy horse in there. Deep down. Want a challenge? Like to feel accomplished? Want really impressive before and after videos of how far you’ve brought her? Have at it. Does best with consistent work. I am not consistent. I like to go to the barn without my kids and sit around. Maybe I’ll ride, maybe I won’t. I’ll probably eat instead.
“Looking to trade for a gelding that is sound, at least 16h, and doesn’t want to lawn dart me.
Man, my dream job would be some sort of PR/marketing position with the FEI. I can see myself sitting a board table, at their headquarters in Switzerland, hemming and hawing over hashtags. While eating a grilled Swiss cheese sandwich. (Back off! This is MY fantasy, of course it involves cheese, leave me alone!)
In advance of the 2016 Rio Olympics, the FEI think-tank came up with the heartwarming #TwoHearts campaign. And now, with WEG on the horizon, a new hashtag has been born: #BeOne.
“We are very pleased to launch our BeOne campaign today as the excitement really kicks off in the countdown to the FEI World Equestrian Games Tryon this September,” says FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez. “When you look at equestrian sport, which is intense and emotive, our sport thrives on passion, not only from our athletes but our fans, this campaign will clearly showcase the diversity of our disciplines and will demonstrate that it really all comes down to one partnership and one sporting effort. A true celebration of the sport and as for the Games, there’s really is no event quite like it!”
Equestrian fans, athletes and teams from across the globe will come together to celebrate the sport — as one. We will #BeOne and stand proud as a global community united by sport and horsemanship as we honor the unrivaled bond between horse and human.
We ask equestrian fans to come together and show their love of the sport at one of the biggest events in the world. It’s the chance to celebrate everything that makes equestrianism one of the most loved sports worldwide.
It’s time to be passionate.
Be epic. Be free. Be united. Be fearless. Be spectacular. Be victorious. Be one.
OK!
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The US Equestrian Eventing Show Jumping Course Advisor Program has gone a long way toward upping many events’ course design game. Today the federation announced its plans for the program going forward: After reviewing all FEI level eventing show jumping courses in 2017, US Equestrian Eventing Show Jumping Course Advisor Richard Jeffery will turn his focus to 12 National Horse Trial show jumping courses across the preliminary and intermediate levels in 2018. However, in a shift from 2017, Jeffery will evaluate the courses prior to each event in addition to offering a critique of the course post event.
“We are receiving a lot of positive feedback from riders as they have seen great improvement in the courses,” Richard says. “We are working hard to reach as many course designers as possible since many do not have an opportunity to attend other events to see firsthand how eventing show jumping is progressing.
“Through the US Equestrian website, course designers can learn from each other, especially from more senior course designers, compare courses and read the evaluations. In some instances, events use the same show jumping course across all divisions. This can be equal for some, harder for others, and too simple for the advanced divisions, so the idea of this program is to make course designers aware of the degree of technicality that should go into each division.”
Course designers will submit their courses with all technical details to Richard 14 days prior to the start of competition. He will review the course and provide feedback to the course designer and technical delegate before the start of the event. Within five days of the event’s conclusion, course designers will complete an evaluation form, also noting the adjustments made to the course based off Richard’s pre-competition feedback.
Each course’s pre-competition evaluation and overall analysis will be available on USequestrian.org. This gives course designers an opportunity to review a variety of courses and consider Richard’s input from them when designing. To view his 2017 FEI-level course critiques, visit USequestrian.org.
For more information about the US Equestrian Eventing Show Jumping Course Advisor Program, contact Shealagh Costello, Director of Eventing National Programs, at [email protected]or 859-225-6923.
Growing up, I loved flipping to the back of my weekly Chronicle of the Horse magazines to see who won what over the weekend — and, on the occasion that I’d had a good horse trial finish myself, excitedly racing around the house pointing at the fine print and shouting to my family: “Look, it’s my name!” As much as any blue ribbon, that little bit of recognition made me feel special.
There are a few very sensible reasons why the Chronicle stopped publishing comprehensive results some years ago. Timeliness is one: Nowadays, you can follow event scores as the event is still unfolding. Oftentimes, scores even post online before they’ve hit the actual scoreboard at a show. Compiling them, also, is extremely time-consuming, and nowadays there are more events countrywide than ever before. Putting “Weekend Winners” together for EN is a monster cut-and-paste weekly project that takes me as long or longer than any other post I write.
It’s nothing, however, compared to the hundreds or thousands of hours of work that eventers around the country put into the effort of competing in this sport. And you’re not doing it for a $3 ribbon, although success is certainly a measuring stick to keep progress on track. You do it because you love it.
And I cut-and-paste for hours each Monday not for page views, but because I love the idea of some eventer out there seeing their name or photo on EN and feeling a little burst of pride. From EN to each week’s winners, may we extend a heartfelt congrats and a well-deserved moment in the sun.
An extra-special shout-out to Jordan Linstedt and Staccato, who posted the lowest finishing score in the country this weekend! The pair earned a 19.8 to win Open Preliminary at the 42nd Annual Whidbey Island H.T.
And now, for your weekly winners!
Huntington Farm H.T. [Website] [Results]
Open Preliminary: Christina Reiter & Outlier (50.7)
Junior Young Rider Training: Hannah Smith & Bittersweet Aurora (39.4)
Open Training A: Nicole Leikert & All the Above (33.5)
Open Training B: Jane Hamlin & Fernhill Mischief (39.6)
Junior Novice: Maya Zigler & King Dingaling (34.3)
Open Novice A: Andrea Manley & Shadais China Moon (31.2)
Open Novice B: Julie Howard & Isn’t She Sweet (31.7)
Junior Beginner Novice: Isabel Estes & Fernhill Blue Moon (31.7)
Open Beginner Novice A: Sue Levy & Baltic Mahogany (27.8)
Open Beginner Novice B: Kristy Branco & Phair Play (32.2)
Maryland at Loch Moy I H.T. [Website] [Results]
Open Intermediate: Kelli Temple & Metallica (30.5)
Junior Young Riders Open Preliminary: Emma Ayre & Dad Arewethereyet (34.4)
Open Preliminary-A: Kelli Temple & Caleesi (25.7)
Open Preliminary-B: Maya Black & West River (31.7)
Preliminary Rider: Bennett Camp-Crowder & Rosalynd (31.7)
Modified A: Nicholas Hinze & Dakota Blues (36.1)
Modified B: Abigail Lindsay & A Kodak Image (31.1)
Junior Open Training: William Kidwell & Tremolo (27.4)
Open Training-A: Sarah Cousins & Sneaky Rascal (32.9)
Open Training-B: Jan Byyny & Dashwood (30.0)
Training Rider-A: Elizabeth Billings & Calero (31.9)
Training Rider-B: Nicole Wisniewski & Compromise Elsewhere (34.1)
Junior Open Novice-A: Brynn Hershbine & Cadenza Aria (23.4)
Junior Open Novice-B: Amara Underwood & Slim Jim (35.7)
Novice Rider-A: Katelyn Duda & Will You Remember Me (32.4)
Novice Rider-B: Taylor Martin & Stiletto (25.7)
Open Novice-A: Alexandra Peterson & Captain Crunch (31.0)
Open Novice-B: Sarah Whitehead & Proletariat (30.2)
Beginner Novice Rider-A: Jennifer Trautmann & Norman (25.8)
Beginner Novice Rider-B: Annabel Carruthers & Princess Leia (38.6)
Junior Beginner Novice-A: Sadie Phifer & Gusty Day (32.8)
Junior Beginner Novice-B: Georgia Cooley & Gossip Girl (35.3)
Open Beginner Novice-A: Courtney Sendak & Just Once Ide (29.2)
Open Beginner Novice-B: Carla Tussey & Wise Thinking (23.9)
Powder Basin H.T. [Website] [Results]
Preliminary-Open: Lynnea Woody & Prince Eric (43.1)
Training-Open: Linda Quist & Belle Gambe (29.2)
Junior Novice: Jhett Jenkins & Pedernales Cat (33.1)
Open Novice A: Erin Contino & Handsome Ransom (28.5)
Open Novice B: Anna Weatherford & Thaddaeus (30.7)
Junior Beginner Novice: Hanna Wildin & Happy Dance (30.8)
Open Beginner Novice A: Sabrina Manning & The River (36.8)
Open Beginner Novice B: Anika Bronfman & Sidecar (31.6)
Intro-Open CT: Kirsi Hussa & The Rest of the Story (34.0)
Coconino Summer I H.T. [Website] [Results]
Intermediate: Summer Peterson & Jake the Fish (44.9)
Open Preliminary: Ellie Brown & Ringfort Fighting Chance (31.0)
Open Training: Jeanine Allred & Shabang (27.1)
Training Junior: Lauren Gillis & Under the Spotlight (26.8)
Training Rider: Shannon Bird & Gatsby V (26.1)
Novice Junior: Savannah Carter & Ballustree Dun Believable (24.1)
Novice Rider: Ashley Armijo & Cimbria (30.0)
Open Novice: Rachel Maloney & Empire Bear Bones (28.1)
Beginner Novice Junior: Sophia Hardesty & San Marco (29.8)
Beginner Novice Rider: Jane Worrall & Mystique Knights (26.5)
Open Beginner Novice: Nicholas Madsen & American Style (27.0)
Intro: Jennifer Wooten & Bella (28.6)
Also, all the props to the plucky young eventer in this next one. Reagan Barefoot, age 8, recently embarked on her very first cross country school at Full Gallop Farm riding Darling Pearl, or “Pearl” as she’s known around the barn.
Eyewitness Helen Kaiser explains, “Reagan is a feisty kid and wants to do everything the adults do. She does a great job with Pearl’s unconventional jump. She had been down the bank once cleanly, and the second time around Pearl dived a bit more exuberantly. Reagan was holding on to the front of the saddle but her hands slipped. She did take a plunge in the mud, but her peacock stirrups did their job and she was laughing before she was on her feet. She went around and did it three more times perfectly.”
We love Reagan’s positive attitude, grit and determination. That’s not failing — that’s winning!
Go Reagan go! Hero status. In the spirit of “we’ve all been there,” here are a few more winning fails (but is it even failing if you can laugh about it afterward?) to get you through your Friday!
You can always count on eventers to get the job done! In lieu of your regularly scheduled #EventerProblems programming, here are a few strokes of #EventerSolutions genius as ‘grammed by EN readers.
Happy Independence Day! SmartPak is getting in the spirit with its 15% off (or 20% with an association discount) Fourth of July sale — use promo code July18. My fellow Americans, you know what to do.
Being a World Equestrian Games year, it is prime time to stock up on your Team USA gear. Be honest with yourself: do you have enough red, white and blue clothes in your closet and gear in your tack room? The answer, probably, is no.
Unless, of course, you are Jenni or I.
Leslie and Jenni at the 2014 World Equestrian Games in Normandy.
Here are a few red, white and blue items you might consider checking off your SmartPak wishlist:
Ariat Team Sunstopper Longsleeve 1/4 Zip. Photo via SmartPak.
Ariat Team Sunstopper Longsleeve 1/4 Zip: I own this myself, obviously, and it’s an MVP of my equestrian wardrobe. Don’t let the long sleeves fool you: It’s made of a lightweight, moisture-wicking pique knit with breathable mesh underarm paneling and a sun protective finish. The color blocking is super-flattering and the mock collar makes it perfect for clinics and schooling shows in addition to everyday wear.
It also pairs really well with red patent leather stilettos, patriotic socks, a light-up tutu and tinsel boa for a night on the town.
These colors don’t run, y’all.
The Ariat Sunstopper Longsleeve and its Ariat team brethren are already offered at the lowest price allowed by the manufacturer, which means the 15% off JULY17 promo discount doesn’t apply. However, there are plenty of other Uncle Sam approved purchases that are! Including but not limited to….
Groton House Farm H.T. Preliminary Training winners Madeline Hartsock & Prinz S.W. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.
Can I start this week’s edition by just raving over our cover model a bit? I’ve been a little bit obsessed with Madeline Hartsock‘s Prinz S.W. since seeing them win the Junior Training division at the AEC last year. Square knees, pricked pony ears, expression like a kid on Christmas morning and a tail so bushy you could hang Christmas ornaments from it … I can’t even deal. Madeline and her 9-year-old German Sport Horse Pony (PR. H. Principal Boy x St. Pr. St. Hauptsutbuch Bienchen) won the Preliminary Training division at Groton House Farm H.T. over the weekend — congrats to this dynamic duo!
Another shout-out to the lowest finishing score in the country of the weekend: a 21.1 earned by Emily Beshear and Templewood in a division of Open Preliminary at Horse Park of New Jersey I H.T. Well-played.
And now for your weekend winners!
Groton House Farm H.T. [Website] [Live Scores]
Intermediate Preliminary: Katie Lichten & RF Luminati (36.7)
Junior Young Rider Open Preliminary: Abigail Niles & Carrick Finest Lad (29.2)
Open Preliminary: Jasmine Jencks & D’Paradi (34.2)
Junior Open Training: Abigail Niles & Delight (34.5)
Preliminary Training: Madeline Hartsock & Prinz S.W. (31.5)
Senior Open Training-A: Barbara Cassani & King’s Mustard (30.7)
Senior Open Training-B: Annie Read & Carolina PCH (31.8)
Senior Open Training-C: Beth Murphy & It’s Me (24.8)
Junior Open Novice-A: Dean Tengdin & Watson’s Autumn (32.6)
Junior Open Novice-B: Madison Haney & Revelation (26.2)
Senior Open Novice-A: Meaghan Wood & Make Change (27.4)
Senior Open Novice-B: Sarah Noble & Man About Town (27.6)
Senior Open Novice-C: Jean Detert & Dorchis (32.0)
Senior Open Novice-D: Mike Robbins & Alexander (24.5)
Training Novice: Nancy Read & Caribe PCH (26.0)
Many thanks toJoan Davis of Flatlandsfoto for this photo gallery of Groton House Farm winners!
Senior Open Training-B winners Nancy Read & Caribe PCH. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.
Junior Young Rider Open Preliminary winners Abigail Niles & Carrick Finest Lad. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.
Intermediate Preliminary winners Katie Lichten & RF Luminati. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.
Junior Open Novice-B winners Madison Haney & Revelation. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.
Senior Open Training-A winners Barbara Cassani & King’s Mustard. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.
Groton House Farm H.T. Preliminary Training winners Madeline Hartsock & Prinz S.W. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.
Horse Park of New Jersey I H.T. [Website] [Live Scores]
Advanced: Buck Davidson & Carlevo (31.3)
Open Intermediate-A: Maya Black & Black Ice (41.2)
Open Intermediate-B: Caroline Martin & Cristano Z (31.3)
Open Preliminary-A: Emily Beshear & Templewood (21.1)
Open Preliminary-B: Maya Black & Miks Master C (28.9)
Open Preliminary-C: Emily Beshear & LVS Jackson (31.8)
Open Training-A: Mikki Kuchta & Cano Cristales (28.5)
Open Training-B: Bobby Meyerhoff & Lumumba (29.3)
Training Rider-A: Goldie Roth & Rain Dancer (44.0)
Training Rider-B: Elizabeth Posillico & Hill Dancer (27.5)
Novice Rider-A: Cindi Cauffman & Lamondale Florinia (33.8)
Novice Rider-B: Emeline Gilbert & Herr Winzig (28.6)
Open Novice-A: Skyler Decker & Excel Star Eminem m2s (32.4)
Open Novice-B: Amanda Beale Clement & BE Kilgoric Felix (28.6)
Beginner Novice Rider: Michelle Donelan & Rocket Man (34.0)
Open Beginner Novice: Lindsay Hafer & Reflecktions (31.3)
Chattahoochee Hills H.T. [Website] [Live Scores]
Open Intermediate-A: Leslie Law & QC First Class (36.1)
Open Intermediate-B: Leslie Law & JKF Vogue (37.2)
Open Preliminary-A: Andrew McConnon & Bossinova (30.0)
Open Preliminary-B: Lauren Hoover & Atlanta VII (33.6)
Open Preliminary-C: Arden Stephens & Ultra T (43.1)
Open Training: Julie Norman & La Sonrisa (26.4)
Training Rider-A: Cindy Phillips & 3rd Times The Charm (28.1)
Training Rider-B: Hannah Page & WHF Wilhelmina (32.9)
Novice Rider-A: Christy Wood & Queen Valentine (33.1)
Novice Rider-B: Kaitlyn Brittendall & Blyth’s Madeline GS (31.8)
Open Novice: Charlotte Cloudsdale & Oxygen (28.8)
Beginner Novice Rider-A: Erin Walker & Cinerescent (29.4)
Beginner Novice Rider-B: Anna Mitchell & All That Hoopla (37.9)
Open Beginner Novice: Sarah Dunkerton & Here’s Hope (32.8)
When Eventing World Wide issued a rally cry to show support for the plight of Jonty Evans by wearing green, the eventing community answered. The #WearGreenForJonty initiative has taken off, with eventers around the world posting photos of themselves in Jonty’s signature colors. Proceeds from the campaign (visit the website here) go to benefit the David Foster Injured Riders Fund.
Jonty is in a coma after having suffered a head injury following a fall from Cooley Rorkes Drift on the CIC3* cross country course at Tattersalls International Horse Trials & Country Fair on Sunday, June 3. At last update on June 20, Eventing Ireland confirmed that Jonty remains in a stable but serious condition in the high dependency ward in the Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, West Dublin.
We are all behind you, Jonty, and praying that you wake up soon. #WearGreenForJonty
Marie Kraack and Havana Bay. Photo by Mariusz Chmieliński/ LOTTO Strzegom Horse Trials.
Seven teams are in the hunt for Nations Cup victory at Poland’s LOTTO Strzegom Horse Trials, with France taking the early lead after dressage today. Sweden lies second, and Germany rounds out the top three.
The CICO3* Nations Cup individual leaderboard was topped by Marie Kraack from Germany, who scored a 26.1 with Havana Club.
“He was really super, he did what we expected from him, and he performed very well,” says Marie of the 15-year-old Polish-bred gelding (Mesandra x Nike, by Cardiff).
Linda Algotsson of Sweden and Fair Spot sit second on a dressage score of 26.3 …
… followed by Yoshiaki Oiwa of Japan with Duke of Cavan, who scored a 28.2.
“He was very good, I’m happy with the test. He was a bit tense inside, I could have done a nicer test, but otherwise I’m really pleased with him,” Yoshiaki says.
Yoshiaki Oiwa and Duke of Cavan. Photo by Mariusz Chmieliński/ LOTTO Strzegom Horse Trials.
The best placed Polish rider was Mateusz Kiempa with Lassban Radovix, who are currently 11th: “I think the test went alright. It is a great honor for me to compete in the Nations Cup representing Poland — I want my score to be as good as possible for our team.”
View more post-ride videos on Strzegom’s YouTube channel here.
The Nations Cup competition in Strzegom is the first test of the new Olympic format, which will be used at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Three riders compete for each team, and their added score counts for the overall classification.
In the two-star competition two riders are tied for the lead with the same score: Maxime Livio (FRA) with Ariano du Quinze and Mateusz Kiempa (POL) with Libertina. In the one-star Pia Münker (GER) with Dunkin Donut M. has taken the lead.
Strzegom continues with cross country tomorrow. Go Eventing!
Strzegom CIC03* Nations Cup Top 10 After Dressage:
Hashtag “happy horses” indeed! Watch Michi Jung’s youngsters (Jungsters?) happily popping off a Prelim-sized drop into water. Between the music and Michael’s quiet, positive methodology and the clockwise lunging on repeat ad infinitum, there’s something mesmerizing about this video. If your Friday gets stressful, consider this a soft landing.
The eye-catching grey is fischerDaily Impressed, a 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Cartani 4 x Impression, by Elcaro) who has been doing quite well for himself on the jumper circuit with Michael. His cross-training paid off at this recent derby obstacle!
Sara Algotsson Ostholt and Wega. Photo by Leszek Wójcik/LOTTO Strzegom Horse Trials.
Poland’s LOTTO Strzegom Horse Trials is an important competition, especially in a championship year with several nations still ironing our their World Equestrian Games lineups. It’s also on the FEI Eventing Nations Cup fixture, with the CIC3* and team competition kicking off tomorrow.
The CCI3* division completed its dressage today at the Morawa hippodrome. Sweden’s Sara Algotsson Ostholt is the leader aboard Wega, a 17-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare (Irco Mena x La Fair, by Labrador 58) owned by Margareta Algotsson. The pair scored a 26.0.
“Wega was fantastic!,” Sara says. “She was amazing to ride, she loves to show off in the dressage arena, and she did so today.”
The Ostholt family was well-represented at the top of the CCI3* leaderboard, with Andreas Ostholt and So Is Et in 4th and Frank Ostholt and Jum Jum in 6th. Both represent Germany. Linda Ostholt sits 10th in the CIC2* and has two horses in the CIC3*.
Karin Donckers of Belgium, a veteran of the event, and the Belgian-bred gelding Fletcha van’t Verahof sit 2nd in the CCI3* on 26.8. “I had a good feeling about our test with Fletcha,” she says. “I’m happy with how it went, I’m really pleased with my horse. It’s been a very good year for him.”
Christoph Wahler of Germany and Carjatan S are 3rd on 27.1. The only Polish rider in the CCI3* is Artur Społowicz with Poker, currently 12th after dressage.
In the CCI2*, German rider Kai Ruder has taken the lead with Chicago M. Sara Algotsson Ostholt is currently 2nd and 3rd with Arpertina and Cesar accordingly. Poland’s Margit Appelt and Born to Fly lead the CIC1*.
Bum-crack of dawn rides, scary tanlines, sizzling temperatures, storms that turn horse shows into mud wrestling tournaments (we see you, Fox River Valley Pony Club H.T.!) … some #EventerProblems are particularly rampant this time of the year.
Today’s “Let’s Discuss” topic was inspired by Amy Nelson, EN blogger and trainer at Hummingbird Stables in Rochester, Illinois. She asks, “What’s the worst way you’ve ever gotten eliminated in eventing?”
Hers: Over the weekend at Fox River Valley Pony Club H.T.: “Young Prelim horse River spooked at VIP and giant American flag in dressage. Bolted. Jumped out of the ring. Had some 6.5s and 6.0s until then. Crowd dove out of the way screaming as they thought he was jumping the wood arena fence too. I figured here we go … better two-point.”
“One second you’re the windshield. Next second you’re the bug,” Amy says. “For the record I did NOT fall off and no one in the crowd was injured.”
Hey, letter scores happen. Tell us in the comments what is the worst way YOU have gotten eliminated at an event?
