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#EventerSolutions: DIY Nation

By on Dec 28, 2016 11:30 am -

Where there are #EventerProblems there are #EventerSolutions, as we horsefolks tend to be a pretty crafty, resourceful and frugal (read: broke) bunch.

In this spinoff series we spotlight some of your most inventive problem-solving masterpieces and determined DIY efforts. Be sure to tag your photos with the hashtag #EventerSolutions on social for inclusion in future editions!

My new stirrup covers!! #wriskyranch #sirnewton #eventerproblems #horsecrafting

A photo posted by Rochelle Wrisky (@wriskyhorse) on

When you work 8-5 and want to keep red mare in shape… one day we will have an arena with lights #eventerproblems #farmlife

A photo posted by Sarah Vogler Jenkins (@rara_jenks) on

Go Eventing.

Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: Grab Fistfuls of Pony Mane for This Finnish Helmet Cam

By on Dec 27, 2016 3:00 pm -
That is some serious mane. Photo via YouTube screenshot. That is some serious mane. Photo via YouTube screenshot.

Meet 14-year-old Sandra Sunde Lian of Oslo, Norway, and her superpony Oscar The Boxer. Earlier this year the precious duo tackled the Nordic Baltic Eventing Championship in Finland, and we can’t get enough of this helmet cam Sandra recently posted of their cross country trip.

The view of these big jumps between pricked pony ears alone would be enough to make it a worthwhile virtual ride, but the skewbald Irish Cob’s thick, billowing mane just sends it over the edge.

Well-done, Sandra and Oscar. Go Eventing!

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 authorized service centers.

EN’s 2016 Video Countdown #5: Why We <3 Ruy Fonseca

By on Dec 27, 2016 11:00 am -

As we near the end of 2016 we're revisiting EN's most popular video posts of the year. Here's #5, originally posted on Aug. 9 and clocking in at 9,408 views!

Nobody had a bigger bummer of an Olympic equestrian finale than Brazilian eventer Ruy Fonseca. In a near-repeat of their show jumping round at Rolex in 2014, Tom Bombadill Too was going really well …

animation (4)

… until Tommy pushed the ejector seat button on his rider, resulting in elimination.

animation (5)

Ruy is the kind of guy who’s easy to root for — a lovely, kind, humble human being who clearly adores his horse come good days and bad. He and the 16-year-old Holsteiner gelding have been roaming the world together since 2009 and have shared in many more successes than defeats.

They have represented Brazil well and proudly at the past two World Equestrian Games, and most recently they finished third at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto. It’s clear that Ruy is driven by his passion for the sport and his love of his horse in equal parts, and that’s something we can all respect.

After Ruy’s accidental front handspring on the Olympic show jumping course today — if only it had been a pommel horse rather than a real horse, Ruy, you would have scored straight 10s! — Ruy demonstrated his absolute class by helping to set back up the jump he’d just knocked down. Who even does that?

animation (7)

Ruy Fonseca does.

You can watch the full (sadly unembeddable) video replay on the NBC YouTube channel here.

Go Eventing.

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By on Dec 26, 2016 2:30 pm -

Didn’t find a horse under the Christmas tree yourself this year? It’s not too late to be your own Santa! Here are three OTTBs with eventing potential — just imagine them with a big red bow around their neck. Each is from Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation that works with trainers at the Western New York’s Finger Lakes Race Track to help retiring race horses find ideal new homes.

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Photo via Finger Lakes FInest Thoroughbreds.

Little Gidding (Mineshaft – Destiny’s Design, by El Prado (IRE)): 2011 16-hand bay mare

Little Gidding is a very well bred daughter of Mineshaft out of an El Prado mare. Her trainer described her as sound, quiet and very good to handle and work with. She has been an honest and consistent race horse, with six wins and 20 in the money finishes in 42 starts.

FLF admired her strong shoulder and pretty head and kind eye, reporting that she is a quality mare with excellent potential for any discipline. At the jog, she showed nice movement, with good engagement and suspension from behind, and a nice reach from her shoulders. With her breeding she should also be of interest to breeders. Mineshaft, a son of AP Indy, is a top quality Kentucky sire; her dam is a sister to a multiple stakes winner, and this female family has produced many top black type winners over the years.

View Little Gidding on Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

Photo via Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

Photo via Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

Neveramomentspeace (Prime Timber – Moment of Peace, by Explosive Red): 2009 16.2-hand bay gelding

This big homebred son of Prime Timber is a great prospect for eventing, hunter paces, trails, pleasure and all around fun. You will be able to get his whole history from his breeder/owner/trainer, who praised this boy as a very sound horse, easy going, great to handle and ride. He is ready to find his homebred a new home and career because this year he just isn’t racing as well as he used to.

Neveramomentspeace has had a well spaced 35 starts, with winters and springs off to enjoy life at his breeder/owner’s farm, so there’s a lot less wear and tear on him than one might find on other 7 year olds. He turns out well with a group of horses, and he also has been so sound that he’s never had any injections or other special treatments. Prime Timber (from the Cox’s Ridge sire line) is coveted as a sire of horses with great minds who are athletic and durable, and can jump. FLF has placed several of them, and they are excelling in eventing, in fox hunting, on trails, and in other disciplines. For his jog video Neveramomentspeace showed a big step with good engagement from behind — we can see him loving cross country riding!

View Neveramomentspeace on Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

Photo via Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

Photo via Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

Senora de Lolol (Read the Footnotes – Costly Emotion, by Affirmed): 2011 16-hand chestnut mare

Named for a region of Chilean royalty, this adorable young mare will certainly not disappoint! FLF observed her kind eye, complemented by her athletic build and workmanlike attitude. Her handler reports that she is a nice girl nice to work around with no stall vices.

She’s been a successful race horse, earning over $50,000 in her 40 starts, but her connections are looking to move her on while she is still young and capable. She is reportedly good to work, and seems to enjoy going to work each day. She is consistent and predictable — a good working mare. Her trainer says she is sound and FLF saw nice clean legs. We can picture her enjoying any new discipline. Call today to bring this cute girl home with you before the end of the race meet!

View Senora de Lolol on Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

EN’s 2016 Video Countdown #6: Hannah Francis Inspires Us All

By on Dec 26, 2016 12:00 pm -

As we near the end 2016 we're revisiting EN's most popular video posts of the year. Here's #6, originally posted on June 2, and it's a truly special one as Hannah sadly lost her brave battle against cancer just two months later. Hannah, we will never forget. Rest in peace.

Photo by Jack Lyons. Photo by Jack Lyons.

No rider at Tattersalls this year got a bigger cheer — or wore a bigger smile — than 18-year-old Hannah Francis, who fulfilled a lifelong dream to represent Team GB internationally when she performed the one- and two-star dressage test rides on her mare Mavis.

Hannah succumbed to her battle with an aggressive form of bone cancer on Aug. 1, but not before inspiring us all. Hannah bravely shared her fight on social media and established a lasting legacy in the Wilberry Wonder Pony charity, which upholds a mission to “continue #kickingcancersbutt by funding bone cancer research.”

Hannah, we will never forget. Rest in peace.

Event Horse Names, Part 9: Christmas Edition

By on Dec 25, 2016 5:00 pm -

Trivia: Of all the reindeer — Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and, of course, Rudolph — only one doesn’t share its name with a USEA registered horse. Can you guess which is is? Scroll down past this word cloud of Christmas-themed event horse names, gathered from actual names in the USEA Horse Registry database, for the answer!

screen-shot-2016-12-12-at-8-16-58-am

And the answer is … Dasher! Which seems like a totally fitting event horse name, so come and get it.

In case you missed them, check out these previous editions of Event Horse Names: Authors, Books & Characters, Battle of the Booze, The Empire Business, Monster Trucks, Celebrities, Snow, St. Paddy’s Day and Fourth of July.

Happy holidays! Go Eventing.

7 Little Girls Freaking Out Because They Got a Horse For Christmas

By on Dec 25, 2016 11:00 am -

Combing YouTube for videos of surprise Christmas horses is a much-beloved holiday tradition here at Nation Media. Grab some tissues and cry along!

From squealing to screaming to sobbing to standing frozen in a state of shock, these reactions to getting The Best Present Ever are priceless.

First up, we’ve got the happy weepers:

And the surprised squealer:

And the girl who just can’t stop jumping up and down:

And the  one who is stunned speechless:

And last but not least, because you’re never too old to be a horse-crazy little girl:

Merry Christmas. Go Eventing.

Christmas Sunday Links from One K Helmets

By on Dec 25, 2016 12:00 am -
#NailedIt. Photo by Leslie Wylie. #NailedIt. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Merry Christmas, Eventing Nation! I hope you unwrap a present today that is even half as cool as the Secret Santa gift I received from longtime Nation Media writer/illustrator extraordinaire Lindsey Kahn: a Noble Outfitters Wine Down Hoof Pick.

Without further ado because it’s Christmas, y’all, and I’ve got mimosas to drink, here are your links:

12 ponies of Christmas: gelding found in sorry state has bright future

Rescued Shetland Mr Chips finds a home in time for Christmas

Pets provide valuable support to those with mental health problems, study suggests

Steady Eddie Proves It’s Not Always About The Money

Horse racing, pari-mutuel operations face challenges

Go Eventing.

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas: Eventing Edition

By on Dec 24, 2016 9:30 am -

This post is such a Christmas Eve reader favorite, we can’t resist sharing it again! Here we go …

Is that Donner the Reindeer? Read on to find out! Is that Donner the Reindeer? Read on to find out!

‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the farm

not an event horse was stirring in Lynn Symansky’s barn.

All the bridles were hung on their racks with care

horses wondering, “We’re getting tomorrow off, right? That only seems fair.”

Donner was nestled all snug in his stall

dreaming of four-stars and his scheme to conquer them all

and maybe, just maybe, if all goes according to plan

on an Olympic podium in Rio his mom could stand.

When out on the roof there arose such a clatter

Donner sprang up from the ground to see what was the matter.

The barn lights clicked on and Donner peered out his stall

to see a gang of reindeer marching down the hall.

“Yeah, that’s him,” said the one with the glowing red nose.

“Hey Donner!” he exclaimed, and Donner’s heart froze.

“There’s been a mistake!” Donner neighed in desperate plea.

“I’ve heard of the guy you’re looking for — it’s not me!”

But Rudolph, he wouldn’t take no for an answer

nor would Vixen, Cupid, Blitzen, Dasher or Dancer.

Donner followed them outside, his head hung low.

“Mom’s gonna kill me,” he sighed as he walked through the snow.

But then, to his surprise, what did he spot?

A familiar face among Rudolph’s flock!

“Courageous Comet, is that you, dude?” Donner neighed

to a familiar looking, confused-faced gray.

Comet said, “Yeah man, I guess they needed a sub …

a couple of the reindeer have abscesses or something, welcome to the club.”

They stood motionless as Santa hooked them onto the sled

staring up at the sky with a terrible dread.

But Santa, he knew how to make this crowd fly:

“3, 2, 1 … Have a great ride!”

They took off galloping and at the moment when Santa clucked

They gathered their courage, rocked back on their haunches and jumped.

“Hey,” Donner said, “this almost feels like a dream”

Comet snorted: “I guess you could say we made the team!”

For hours they ran and jumped with no regrets

and it made them thankful for all those long trot sets.

At the end of the night Santa dropped them back at the farm

just before the sound of Lynn and Becky’s alarms.

They dozed off, happy memories filling their heads …

saving Christmas was (almost) as fun as country country at WEG!

Merry Christmas and Go Eventing!

EN’s 2016 Video Countdown #7: 5 Questions with Sir Mark Todd & Lady Martha

By on Dec 23, 2016 3:00 pm -

As we near the end 2016 we're revisiting EN's most popular video posts of the year. Here's #7, originally posted on May 7 and collecting 7,930 views! In it Lady Martha Sitwell, whom you may remember as the champagne-swilling foxhunting madwoman from our "Meeting Martha" series early this year, met up with us at Badminton doing a little "color commentary" for EN.

That bike's a little big for you, eh Toddy? Photo by Leslie Wylie. That bike's a little big for you, eh Toddy? Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Lady Martha Sitwell, whom you may remember as the champagne-swilling foxhunting madwoman from our “Meeting Martha” series earlier this year, is here with us at Badminton doing a little “color commentary” for EN.

Leslie and Martha, reunited.

The Leslie and Martha show.

For starters, she offered to interview her dear friend, Mark Todd, a four-time Badminton winner who is currently sitting in fourth place after cross country with Leonidas II.

It’s not surprising that they’re mates as they have quite a lot in common, such as their shared talent for riding with just one stirrup: She’s a sidesaddle rider, and he legendarily rode two-thirds of the 1995 Badders course with only one stirrup. (The horse he was riding, Bertie Blunt, was unfortunately eliminated at the jog the next day, but the pair came back the next year and won the whole shebang.)

But if you think she’s about to ask him something normal, like, I don’t know, how his cross-country ride went today or what his thoughts on show jumping tomorrow, you’d be very, very mistaken.

Take it away, Martha:

Go Eventing.

USEF Names 2017 Eventing 25 & Eventing 18 Program Participants

By on Dec 22, 2016 5:30 pm -
Madeline Backus and P.S. Ariana. Photo by Jenni Autry. Madeline Backus and P.S. Ariana. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The USEF has just released the 2017 Eventing 25 and Eventing 18 Program Participants List! These riders will be invited to participate in training sessions with USEF Eventing Emerging Athlete Coach Leslie Law in California and Ocala.

From the USEF: 

Following the post-Rio review, new approaches and definitions to all of the USEF eventing programs are being evaluated and introduced.

The Emerging Athletes Lists are designated as athletes with the potential to evolve into future team candidates. USEF Eventing Emerging Athlete Coach Leslie Law will provide the Eventing 25 and Eventing 18 athletes with skill instruction and insight in their respective training sessions.

The Eventing 25 athletes will train at Meredyth South in Ocala, Fla., Jan. 9-12, followed by the Eventing 18 athletes, Jan. 16-20. Both groups will train at Tucalota Creek Ranch in Temecula, Calif., Jan. 30 through Feb. 2.

Eventing 25

Madeline Backus (Larkspur, Colo.)              
Zachary Brandt (Ocala, Fla.)                
Jenny Caras (Cartersville, Ga.)                      
Zoe Crawford (Jamaica Plain, Mass.)                    
*Cornelia Dorr (Manchester-by-the-Sea, Mass.)                          
Jacob Fletcher (North Little Rock, Ark.)                 
Savannah (Woodge) Fulton (Ocala, Fla.)                 
Caroline Martin (Miami Beach, Fla.)                  
Morgan McCue (Malvern, Pa.)                 
Mackenna Shea (Temecula, Calif.)               
*Lizzie Snow (Southern Pines, N.C.)     
                  

Eventing 18

Arielle Aharoni (Bedminster, N.J.)                   
Amanda Beale Clement (Phoenixville, Pa.)    
Emma Ciafone (Castle Rock, Colo.)                  
Jane Cook (Dallas, Texas)                         
Haley Curry (Canton, Miss.)                       
Mia Farley (San Clemente, Calif.)                          
Grace Fulton (Finksburg, Md.)                      
Cosby Green (Lexington, Ky.)                     
Gigi Hogan (Heath, Texas)                        
Katie Lichten (Hamilton, Mass.)                     
Patience O’Neal (Fall City, Wash.)                
Makenna Rold (Delano, Minn.)                    
Arden Stephens (Little Rock, Ark.)                
Tayler Stewart (Damascus, Md.)                   
Madison Temkin (Sebastopol, Calif.)                
Megan Traynham (Arbuckle, Calif.)             
Cassandra Wallskog (Mequon, Wis.)   

*Indicates rider(s) that were talent spotted into the program.

Congrats to all the riders named!

[Emerging Athlete Eventing 25 and Eventing 18 Program Participants Named for 2017]

USA’s Lexington & Slovakia’s Samorin Announced as Official Candidates to Host 2022 WEG

By on Dec 22, 2016 12:30 pm -
Photo by Lorraine Jackson Photo by Lorraine Jackson

Lexington, Kentucky and Samorin, Slovakia have been named official candidates to host the World Equestrian Games in 2022, the FEI announced today.

Neither venue is a stranger to WEG venue selection. Lexington, of course, hosted the 2010 WEG; the Samorin Equestrian Centre in Slovakia was under consideration for the 2018 WEG, with the Games ultimately being allocated to Tryon International Equestrian Center. FEI eventing will come to the venue next year, as Samorin has been approved to host a CCI3* on Sept. 7-10, 2017.

“We are very happy to have two such strong official candidates for the FEI World Equestrian Games in 2022,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said. “Both the Kentucky and Samorin venues have the infrastructure in place already to host the Games, which is one of the biggest events on the global sporting calendar.

“The last edition in Normandy two years ago attracted more than half a million spectators and a worldwide television audience of 350 million, delivering a significant economic impact to the French economy.

“There’s no doubt that these Games are a huge undertaking, but we believe both Samorin and Kentucky have the capability to host spectacular Games and we look forward to working with them through the further stages of the bid process over the next year.”

According to the FEI, both sites will be visited between January and May 2017, with a deadline of June 2017 for submission of the Candidates’ complete bid and signed host agreement. The Candidates will make formal presentations to the FEI Evaluation Commission in the third quarter of 2017, with the final FEI Bureau decision and allocation of the Games in November 2017.

[FEI announces Candidate Cities for FEI World Equestrian Games 2022]

Thursday Video: A Very SmartPak Christmas

By on Dec 22, 2016 10:30 am -
Home alone ... at SmartPak! Home alone ... at SmartPak!

It’s that time of the year and you know it’s getting festive up in SmartPak HQ. Unlike my own office holiday decorations, comprised primarily of dirty coffee mugs and cookie crumbs on the keyboard, SmartPak employees go all out to show their Christmas spirit.

Take it away, SmartPak!

At SmartPak, we’re a festive bunch. We’re also a very competitive bunch, which makes office competitions really, well…competitive. And around the holidays, we hold an office decorating contest where the winner gets to donate money to a charity of their choice. This year’s contest was our best yet — that’s not to say 2013’s contest wasn’t awesome, but this year topped all previous years.

In the end, the Creative Department’s portrayal of Home Alone earned them the win, followed by the IT System Administrators (The Trans-SmartPakian Horsechestra) in second, and Merchandising (Winter Wonderland) and the Customer Care Phones Team (reindeer barn) tied for third.

Gotta admit, I found myself rooting for the IT guys:

Sorry, Trans-SmartPakian Horsechestra — y’all got robbed.

Go SmartPak. Go Eventing!

Tuesday Video from SpectraVET: Michael Willham’s Hagyard Midsouth P3D Walkthrough Helmet Cam

By on Dec 20, 2016 5:30 pm -
Michael Willham and Fernhill Cayenne, winners of the Hagyard Midsouth Long Format Prelim 3-Day Event. Photo by Photography In Stride.

Michael Willham and Fernhill Cayenne, winners of the Hagyard Midsouth Long Format Prelim 3-Day Event. Photo by Photography In Stride.

Michael Willham has got the classic long format on lock. After winning the Hagyard Midsouth Long Format Training Three-Day in 2015, he and his 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse Fernhill Cayenne (A.K.A. “Cayenne” or “Cay”) returned to take the Prelim Three-Day title this year in October. The pair led from start to finish, adding just 1.2 time penalties on endurance day to their dressage score for the win.

Michael is a big proponent of the experience. “I thoroughly recommend competing in a long format event,” he says. “It is a ton of fun, an excellent way to honor tradition, and an exceptional learning experience for both you and your horse. That is why I not only competed in the T3D in 2015, but came back to compete at the P3D in 2016 instead of contesting the CCI1*.”

When he first began entertaining the idea of doing a classic long format, however, he recalls, “I didn’t know what to expect, what it would look like, how to prepare, what would be required.”

He hopes this video cam of his Hagyard Midsouth run will help educate others about the experience: “This video is for those of you who are thinking about competing in a classic long format but are unsure of what to expect. I was in your shoes a little over a year ago, when I decided to compete in the T3D at Hagyard Midsouth in 2015.”

“It is still about 29 minutes long, so just be prepared,” he says. “However, if you were like me before I did my first T3D, I had a bunch of questions and would’ve willingly watched a half hour helmet cam video, if there was one available — I looked, I never found one! So this is why I wanted to run my helmet cam for the entire time this year. Hopefully this helps someone ease the anxiety about what is involved.”

Many thanks to Michael for putting the video together, which includes walkthrough text explaining aspects of the format Michael had questions on before he first competed in the classic long format. We love the commentary and tips scattered throughout, the speed/course data, and of course the view between Cay’s happy, pricked ears!

Best of luck to you and Cay in 2017, Michael! Go Eventing.

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 authorized service centers.

Vote Phillip Dutton & Mighty Nice for USEF International Horse & Equestrian of the Year!

By on Dec 20, 2016 2:47 pm -
Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice. Photo by Jenni Autry. Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Phillip Dutton’s Olympic ride Mighty Nice stole all of our hearts this year. From their fourth-place finish at Rolex to an individual bronze medal in Rio, “Happy” did the U.S. proud on the international stage.

Now the 2004 Irish Sport Horse gelding (Ard Ohio x Sarazen) owned by the HND Group has been nominated for a huge honor: USEF International Horse of the Year. And there’s more! Phillip has been nominated for USEF Equestrian of the Year.

Votes play an integral role in deciding which equestrian and horse will take this year’s titles. Voting will run through midnight EST Jan. 4, 2017. The USEF National and International Horse of the Year winners will be named on Jan. 14 during the 2017 HOTY Awards Gala.

Click here to vote for USEF Equestrian of the Year

Click here to vote for USEF International Horse of the Year

Go Phillip. Go Happy. Go Eventing.

 

Need Info NOW at an Event? There’s an App for That!

By on Dec 20, 2016 1:30 pm -
Screenshot via USEA Event Companion.

Screenshot via USEA Event Companion.

Christmas has come early for eventers with the unveiling of the USEA’s new Event Companion App.

Have you ever been on the way to an event and realize you need the address? 

Yes!

Or gotten in the warm up only to forget your dressage test?

Story of my life!

This app is designed to make your life easier and make all necessary competition information available at your fingertips.

Tell me more, USEA!

With the Event Companion App, you search and sort events by name, level or distance. If you have an event you regularly attend, you can “favorite” that event, which will save it to a personalized list. This allows users to quickly access information for their most frequented events. Your favorite events can also be stored offline, so you can access information even when you are out of network. Eventually, the app will be able to give push notifications for the opening and closing dates of these events.

Whoa.

Screenshots via USEA Event Companion.

Screenshots via USEA Event Companion.

“The USEA Event Companion was created to quickly provide important information that you need while you plan, prepare and participate at a USEA competition. While the first version of the app has its limitations, we have big plans for it,” says Robert Winter, USEA Director of Information Systems Management.

“The USEA is supporting its ongoing development, so there will be regular new features and fixes. In the near future, it will expand to support both recognized and registered events, event app notifications, deep result searches and integrations with other third-party eventing apps.”

You can check out a full list of features here. The app is free and now available for iOS and Android devices. Download it today, and if you have any feedback or ideas the USEA invites you to share it with them — email [email protected].

[USEA Event Companion App, Now Available for iOS and Android]

Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: Elisa Wallace + Simply Priceless 4* Year in Review

By on Dec 19, 2016 4:30 pm -

“This has been an amazing year to say the least with this amazing horse,” wrote Team Tredstep eventer Elisa Wallace on her Wallace Eventing vlog. “Finishing 8th at Rolex Kentucky CCI4*, becoming an alternate for the 2016 Rio Olympics, and placing 14th and top American at our very first Burghley CCI4*.”

To celebrate, Wallace Eventing has released this mashup video of Elisa’s Rolex and Burghley performances. Her partner, of course, is Simply Priceless — known as “Johnny” around the farm — who has proven himself an elite equine athlete and fan favorite. Hot tip: there are two remaining shares available in the Simply Priceless syndicate, come and get them! Click here for more details or email [email protected].

“I can not really put into words how much Johnny means to me, he truly is SIMPLY PRICELESS,” Elisa says. “And in making this video I was inspired by the passion of the sport of eventing, the love of an incredible horse, and the amazing community that supports me! Johnny and I have attained some of my biggest dreams this year and with many more to come, I’m really excited for 2017!”

We’re excited, too, Elisa. Go Eventing!

#Dogs(AndCats!)OfEN: Because We’re Equal Opportunity Like That

By on Dec 19, 2016 1:00 pm -

Since we began the #DogsOfEN series, there’s been a slow but steady uprising of barn cats who want a piece of that sweet, sweet spotlight pie. Who are we to deny them? Hell hath no fury like a kitten scorned.

The adventures of ranger and Elmo on crappy barn days #barncat #dogsofinstagram #eventerproblems #ineedanewcouch #dogsofEN

A photo posted by Renee Sternhagen (@renee.a.sternhagen) on

Is this what dreaming of warmer weather looks like? #dogsofEN #dogsofinstgram #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Renee Sternhagen (@renee.a.sternhagen) on

Walking the mutts on a snowy day #thankyouforthis #dogsofinstgram #dogsofEN #barndogs #love

A photo posted by Renee Sternhagen (@renee.a.sternhagen) on

Go EVenting.

Let’s Discuss: What Complementary Healing Modalities Do You Use?

By on Dec 19, 2016 11:00 am -
Photo by Leslie Wylie. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Eventers will move heaven and earth to keep our horses happy and performing at their best. And many of us have discovered that incorporating complementary/alternative healing modalities into our horse’s regimens goes a long way toward that end.

Acupuncture, massage, chiropractic … my pony Princess, who is basically a princess, gets them all on an as-often-as-my-bank-account allows basis. It’s hard not to be a little envious, as my own soundness regimen is based on an economy-size bottle of ibuprofen and box wine. “You ought to set a table up in here for owners, like they do for couple’s massage,” I told the acupuncturist during our last visit.

This week’s question: What complementary/alternative healing modalities have you found to be most useful for YOUR horses? Discuss amongst yourselves in the comments!

Princess receiving an acupuncture treatment at the University of Tennessee. not pictured: cabana boy standing off to the side fanning her with palm fronds and feeding her grapes. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Princess receiving an acupuncture treatment at the University of Tennessee. Not pictured: cabana boy standing off to the side fanning her with palm fronds and feeding her grapes. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By on Dec 18, 2016 11:00 am -

Know what looks great under a Christmas tree? A shiny new OTTB. But don’t wait around for a delivery from Santa, as we hear he’s more of a reindeer connoisseur than a horseman.

Take a tip from Tennessee eventer Shannon O’Hatnick, who snagged this handsome guy just in time for the holidays. Black Market (After Market – Keep the Feeling, by Kris S.) is a 4-year-old Kentucky-bred OTTB who was retired from the track after seven starts.

Welcome to the fam Black Market!!

Posted by Shannon O’Hatnick on Friday, December 9, 2016

Oh my god he’s the cutest and I actually still can equitate after over a month not jumping. Allie Knowles you’re the best

Posted by Shannon O’Hatnick on Friday, December 9, 2016

So fancy — can’t wait to see him in a startbox. Congrats, Shannon! Here are three more OTTBs who are ready for a new career.

Photo via Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

Photo via Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

King Gettigan (Read the Footnotes – Red Hot Peppers, by Jelly Roll Blues): 2011 16-hh bay gelding

Gettigan’s owner is sending him off from racing with gratitude for his accomplishments on the track. This young gelding has had a respectable racing career with $100,000 in earnings and three wins in 39 starts. He last raced on Nov. 11, 2016 and finished second.

He is reported to be nice to work with, sound and without vices. FLF admired his athletic build and nice, fluid movement at the jog. Here’s your chance to take a cute gelding to next year’s RRP at a bargain price.

View King Gettigan on Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.

Photo via Maker's Mark Secretariat Center.

Photo via Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center.

True Simon (Harlan’s Holiday – True Addiction, by Yes It’s True): 2012 16-hh bay gelding

True Simon is so truly alluring that he’s worth taking home just to look at! His soon-to-be manly physique and his impossibly cute expression that is sparkly yet vulnerable will melt your heart.

But it gets better! Simon is athletic, and when he grows into his adult self, he will be jaw-dropping. He’s studious but playful, curious but analytical, and he’s fascinated by new challenges and unknown things. This is a horse with silver screen quality and we can’t wait to see who he will become.

View True Simon on Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center.

Photo via CANTER.

Photo via CANTER.

Rictor Nine Dot O (The Deputy (IRE) – Denium Cowgirl, by Sasha’s Prospect) – 2011 15.2-hh bay gelding.

Out of Denium Cowgirl by multiple graded stakes winner The Deputy (IRE), who earned $817,270 in his racing career. His bloodline also includes Mr. Prospector and Northern Dancer. “Ricky” had 32 starts, with three firsts, three seconds, and two third place finishes, earning $44,874 in his racing career. Last raced Sept. 24, at Hazel Park. Ricky likes to jump and is very natural and willing. He settles into his work after a few minutes. Cribs.

View Rictor Nine Dot O on CANTER Michigan.

Product Review: Reign Supreme Winter Boot from The Original Muck Boot Company

By on Dec 16, 2016 9:23 am -
Photo by Leslie Wylie. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

I am NOT a cold weather person. I am a 100% southern born-and-raised hothouse flower, prone to psychological frostbite the moment temps dip below 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

Despite the fact that I live in Tennessee, which has relatively mild winters, I would hibernate completely were it not for one thing: my horses. And not only do horses possess the power to draw me outside into the elements, they’ll keep me out there for hours at a stretch on a daily basis.

Hardcore bundling up is my survival strategy, and insulated boots from The Original Muck Boot Company have always been a staple of my stay-warm gear. These days there are lots of equestrian winter boot options out there, but nothing I’ve tried compares to Muck Boots’ neoprene shell construction and natural rubber uppers.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

A pair I picked up at the local farmer’s co-op several years back has held up for me winter after tortuous winter, and I’m sure they’ll last me several more. From ankle-deep mud to slushy snow to underwater rings, they’ve never failed to keep my feet toasty and dry.

I feel bad saying a single negative thing about my trusty old Muck Boots, which have served me so well. If I had to nitpick, though, I’d change two things: One, they’re a bit clunky and stiff for in-the-saddle wear. Two, and this is so embarrassingly superficial — no offense, trusty Muck Boots! — they’re just not that … cute.

No offense, Muck Boots v1.0. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

To my great delight, it was recently brought to my attention that the Muck Boot Company has expanded its product line in the past few years to include boots that are functional and stylish.

Exhibit A: the Reign Supreme. These winter equestrian boots tick all the boxes that made me fall in love with my original Muck Boots — they’re 100% waterproof and have a comfort rating of -20°- 50° Fahrenheit, which is way more ammo than I need but I’ll take it! I heart the soft fleece lining that is warm yet breathable. Add some thermal socks and I feel like you could go hiking through the Arctic in these bad boys, so I’m pretty sure I’ll be snug as a bug putzing around the barn even on the coldest winter days.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

The Reign Supreme has updated its silhouette as well. The tall slim profile hugs my lower leg in a form-fitting way, and there’s no gap at the top for rain or snow to sneak its way in. They’re lightweight and flexible, and pulling them on and off is a breeze. 

The foot is roomy enough to accommodate a heavy duty sock, and — this is so important! — the toe box has wiggle room. Loss of circulation from squished toes = numb toes, and I prefer to be able to feel all my body parts at all times! The removable etc® Sockliner is a practical touch.

The articulated heel is safe and functional for riding, and the gripping horizontal tread outsole ensures that my foot stays in the place in the stirrup iron. And, of course, that I don’t go ice skating when I’m on the ground.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

I had to put my Reign Supremes to the test in the saddle during a recent dressage clinic. I was the first ride of the day, at 8 a.m., and it was literally 20 degrees outside. I went to put on my tall leather dress boots only to discover, to my horror, that they were literally frozen to my trailer tack room floor — I guess they’d had some moisture in them. Not in the mood to encase my lower leg in a literally block of ice, I rode in my Reign Supremes. They performed well, kept my feet toasty warm and rather than giving me a lecture about showing up in proper attire my dressage trainer actually complimented them! 

My fingers, on the other hand … I had to stop several times during the lesson to blow on them because they kept going numb. Request to the Original Muck Boot Co.: Can you start making gloves, please?

But here’s the real kicker: they’re as good looking as they are hard working. Not that I haven’t worn my old Muck Boots into the grocery store and other “real world” destinations, but I always had the feeling that I was on the fashion police’s most-wanted list.

These, though, I’ve actually worn in public on purpose! Paired with some skinny cords or woolly knee socks and a skirt, my Reign Supremes turn heads in a good way. The heathered knit upper and side buckle add a sophisticated touch.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

The Reign Supreme is available in black/grey or brown/bison and retails for $179.95. Check ’em out at The Original Muck Boot Company. 

 

Congrats to the Winners of the 2016 Triple Crown Junior Young Rider PRO Scholarship!

By on Dec 15, 2016 3:00 pm -
Kate Knowles and Cillnabradden Leona. Photo courtesy of Kate Knowles. Kate Knowles and Cillnabradden Leona. Photo courtesy of Kate Knowles.

The Triple Crown Junior Young Rider PRO Scholarship, an annual award offered to junior and young riders who have success at the Training level, offers its winners an incredible opportunity: the opportunity to spend a week training at the facilities of an upper level PRO rider.

And the 2016 winners are …

East Coast
Kate Knowles, 19, of Alexandria, VA
Arielle Aharoni, 16, of Bedminster, NJ

West Coast
Mikayla Howitz, 19, of Salt Lake City, UT
Bella Silveira, 15, Santa Rosa, CA

Kate Knowles, a student at the University of Virginia, finished as overall Triple Crown Junior Leaderboard Champion. She and her mare Cillnabradden Leona have had a successful year, accumulating several wins and top finishes at Training and enjoying a successful Prelim debut as well.

In addition to the scholarship, Kate wins a full complement of tack from World Equestrian Brands. She will receive a new Amerigo Saddle, girth, breastplate and leathers, a Vespucci Bridle and reins, an E.A. Mattes Half-Pad and Equilibrium Airlite Cross Country Boots.

“Participating in the Triple Crown PRO Junior scholarship program this year was an amazing experience,” Kate says. “Receiving feedback on my performance, connecting with other young riders, and attending the seminars all benefited my education as a rider and horse person.

“I am so grateful to Triple Crown, World Equestrian Brands, and the Professional Riders Organization for sponsoring this program, and to all of the individuals involved in organizing, including Marcia Kulak, Ashley Johnson and Samantha Lendl for making this program possible. I am honored to be receiving this award. Having programs like this to motivate young riders to strive for excellence in this sport is crucial for the future of eventing and I am so lucky to be a part of it.”

Following closely behind Kate on the Triple Crown Junior Leaderboard was Arielle Aharoni, a longstanding PRO Junior Member who also participated in the Triple Crown Prelim to PRO Team Series in 2016. This is the first time that she has earned a scholarship week.

Mikayla Howitz and Bella Silveira, both West Coast based riders, will be hosted by Tamra Smith and Hawley Bennett Awad respectively.

“We continue to be amazed at how mature and ‘together’ these young riders are; their parents really should be proud,” says Amy Iafolla, Regional Sales Manager at Triple Crown Nutrition.

The goal of the program is to provide talented young riders the opportunity to learn first hand the valuable skills needed to be successful at the upper levels of the sport and covers all aspects of technique and horse and stable management.

“I’m really thrilled with the success of the program, the quality of the educational seminars and the incredible support that we’ve received from Triple Crown Feed,” says Marcia Kulak, founder of PRO Junior Programs. “The Triple Crown PRO Scholarship Award is a wonderful and rewarding achievement for young riders to work towards and the incredible prize package that World Equestrian Brands so generously gives to the Triple Crown Junior Leaderboard Champion is truly exceptional.”

To learn more about the Triple Crown PRO Scholarship Program, click here; to learn more about the Prelim to PRO Team Series presented by Triple Crown Nutrition, click here.

Many thanks to PRO and the sponsors of these great scholarships, Triple Crown Feed and World Equestrian Brands.

#EventerProblems Vol. 99: ‘We’ve Got 99 Problems & A Horse Is Every One’ Edition

By on Dec 15, 2016 11:00 am -

To commemorate Vol. 99 of the #EventerProblems series, we are dropping an epic 99-problem #EP bomb on the Eventing Nation. Boom! #EPsplosion! Enjoy.

Me, trying to get through adulthood at the moment. #eventerproblems #misseditmonday #thesunwasinoureyes

A photo posted by Logan Bearden (@loganbeardy95) on

Waiting for the vet cus radar poked his eye #glamourous #patagonia #forthewin #iwearskiclothestothebarn #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Tatiana Kitchens (@the40ftwoman) on

Early fail Friday? I love that this is the worst of his bad habits #failfriday#eventerproblems#eventersdoitbetter

A video posted by Remi & Lillian (@fat.friesian) on

…and then he spooked… #nowtrending #indyfail #nomorecoffee #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Victoria Law (@dvmeventer) on

I love winter barn chores!….said no one ever….. #everythingisfrozen #poopsicles #eventingnation #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Kate Mumford (@potatoprincess33) on

Mobile tack room

A photo posted by WhenISayJump (@sarasiglerfiegen) on

HAHAHAHAHA actual conversation that just happened: . **Mom and I were at the eye doctor’s waiting for the receptionist to ring up her prescription** . Me to mom: “I sent that video of Beau to Tara, but I told her his days of looking feral have reached an end because that turd stain is coming off of his face one way or another this afternoon.” . Receptionist (looking quite confused): “… I take it you’re not happy with your boyfriend participating in No Shave November…?” . . After unsuccessfully attempting to hold in my laughter, I explained to her that Beau is a horse and what I was referring to is, indeed, a literal stain on his face made by rolling in turds. I don’t think she found it quite as amusing as I did, but the comment certainly made my day nonetheless. #eventerproblems #equestrianproblems #daymade

A photo posted by Taylor (@taylordawn_13) on

No more jointed stirrups for us! #eventerproblems #rideliketoddy #goodthingitsnotnostirrupnovemberanymore #wardrobemalfunction

A photo posted by Full Gallop Eventing (@fullgallopeventing) on

Bad. Horse! #thisiswhyheliveswithababysitter #bad #ottb #dorado #20goingon5 #eventerproblems

A video posted by Erica Spradling (@xbetterbesocialx) on

Oh look! A three star prospect! HEB really does have everything! #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Zara Flores-Kinney (@thefeanarion) on

And this boys and girls, is why owning a grey is a silly idea #doescowboymagiccomebythegallon #youmissedaspot #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Kristen Brennan (@kbflippyfloppy) on

A moment earlier he was prancing around. Soon as I reached for the camera…. #eventpony #dressagepony #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Helen Donnell (@helendonnell) on

If I hide she won’t make me do dressage #eventing #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Kate (@mackate3kids) on

Black Friday Shopping #eventerproblems #boweneventing

A photo posted by Jessica Bowen (@boweneventing11) on

#horsetrainerproblems #moreleg #eventing #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Helen Brew (@helen_brew) on

True Life: I’m a Horse Lady #eventerproblems #equestrianproblems #thisiswhyimsingle #horsenation

A photo posted by Diane (@dmzrimsek) on

The dangers of working at @sporthorsesaddlery when your inner child is screaming #eventerproblems #horsesofinstagram #breyer

A photo posted by Renee Sternhagen (@renee.a.sternhagen) on

Pretty lady had a mudd bath today #ilovemygrey #eventerproblems #eventingnation #stjernedamen

A photo posted by Lea Ditte Marsk Lauridsen (@lea_lauridsen) on

Showing off my #equestrianstyle at Starbucks this morning. #eventerproblems #shoesmaketheoutfit

A photo posted by Anne Koontz (@anne.k01) on

When you party to hard, and your bro is checking to make sure you’re still alive #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Abby + Nick (@a.n.eventing) on

Duct tape square =abscess time just in time to go to the indoor!!! #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Megan Howe (@meganandmillie) on

He looks as sleepy as I feel #theearlybirdgetstheworm #derp #eventerproblems #6amcrew

A photo posted by Tatiana Kitchens (@the40ftwoman) on

This was not how I wanted to spend the fall season :-(. #eventpony #dressagepony #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Helen Donnell (@helendonnell) on

Only #horsepeople hang out at the urgent care and have fun there! #eventerproblems Don’t worry, Max is okay!

A photo posted by Helen Brew (@helen_brew) on

Why you so nosey? #eventerproblems #girlproblems

A photo posted by Tori Morgan (@tmorgan994) on

I don’t know if this is what they meant by taking your work home with you… #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Kate Drake (@katedrakevt) on

A photo posted by Kelley Smith (@kelleygram) on

Porter Paint has a very hard life… #droopylipsyndrome #savingthathayforlater #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Amanda Conti (@mbhorsejumper) on

When you wait too long to order a new set of bell boots #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Lisa Johnson (@lmjohnson0604) on

Still makes me laugh And Major is perfect (No, I didn’t really fall off) #EventerProblems

Posted by Olivia Webb on Monday, November 21, 2016

Phew.

Go Eventing.