Canadian Eventing has named their initial squad for the Pan American Games–emphasis on initial. Additional riders can be named to the squad prior to August 31st, which will be partly based on qualification and performance at the last North American CCI2* of the summer at Rebecca Farm. Two names who could be added to the list are James Atkinson and Jessica Phoenix–Jessie still needs to qualify with Pavarotti, and James won the June CCI2* in Colorado. The Pan American Games will be held from October 21st to 23rd in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Hawley Bennett-Awad and Five O’Clock Somewhere
Rebecca Howard and Roquefort
Micheline Jordan and Irish Diamonds
Jordan McDonald and Apple Cider
Danica Moore and Utah B
Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High
I spoke with Canadian Chef d’equippe Graeme Thom about Canada’s schedule leading up tot the Games. He said that Richland will not be a mandatory event for Canada because Richland is just a week before Burghley. Richland is the mandatory selection trials for the USEF. Currently, Hawley Bennett has been named to the Pan Am list and has received a training grant to attend Burghley with Gin N’ Juice. Jessica Phoenix has also received a Burghley grant, as has Kyle Carter. The Canadians will likely use a combination of Richland, Morven, and Millbrook for their last runs before the Pan Ams.
As an interesting scoring note, each nation can compete 5 pairs in the team and individual Pan American Games competition with the best three scores to count towards the final team classification.
Strap in folks, it’s shaping up to be a busy day around Eventing Nation. I’ll see you soon and go Canada.
