Classic Eventing Nation

Defender U.S. Eventing Team Takes Second in FEI Eventing Nations Cup Bicton CCIO4*-NC-S

By on May 27, 2025 10:30 am -

The Defender U.S. Eventing Team secured a well-earned podium finish in the FEI Eventing Nations Cup CCIO4*-S hosted in Bicton, Great Britain. The team completed the weekend on a team total of 132.9, with Jenny Caras and Sommersby finishing as the highest placed U.S. combination individually in 10th on a 39.4. The team was led by Chef d’Equipe Karyn Shuter and Team Leader Gemma Stobbs. Great Britain finished on top of the leaderboard on a final total of 87.8, while New Zealand took third.

“The team gained valuable experience from this weekend and produced some very respectable results for the first competition of the tour,” said Karyn Shuter, U.S. Eventing Team High Performance Advisor and Chef d’Equipe for the Development Tour. “With Bramham and Luhmühlen still to come, there is more opportunity for them to continue developing their skills and build a more comprehensive understanding of what it takes to be competitive amongst the best.”

The team started with the first phase of dressage on Friday, with Olivia Dutton (West Grove, Pa.) and Sea of Clouds, a 2011 Thoroughbred (Malibu Moon x Jolie’s Halo) gelding, owned by the Sea of Clouds Partnership, and cared for by Emma Yanek, finishing as the only combination to score a sub-30 mark, earning a 29.7. The other three team combinations received scores under 35 penalties, keeping the team competitive against the four other nations represented in the team-format competition.

Caras (Buckhead, GA) and Sommersby, a 2012 Holsteiner (Sargeant Pepper x d’Mademoiselle) gelding, owned by Jenny Caras and Jerry Hollis, and cared for by Emma Ford, who competed as a part of the tour in 2024, used their experience to earn a 30.2, while Cosby Green (Lexington, KY) and Highly Suspicious, a 2010 Irish Sport Horse (Russel II x Unknown) gelding, owned by Clay and Edie Green, and cared for by Tilly Conder, finished their first phase with a score of 31.3. Mia Farley (Ocala, FL) and Invictus, a 2016 Holsteiner/Thoroughbred (Diarado x Sunset Paradise) gelding, owned by Karen O’Conner, and cared for by herself, would move forward on a starting score of 34.6.

In the short-format order of phases, the team next looked to the show jumping phase, with a challenging track set by Krissy Spiller (GBR) and hosted on Saturday afternoon in Bicton Arena. Both Green and Caras kept the rails in tack and crossed through the finishing within the time allowed, adding nothing to their dressage scores. Farley and Invictus added just a single rail and .4-time faults. Dutton and Sea of Clouds added twelve faults, gaining valuable experience together in their first team appearance for the U.S.

Dutton and Sea of Clouds were the pathfinders on Sunday, with the pair heading out of the start box with confidence across the picturesque track designed by Helen West (GBR). A stop at the airy drop into the water complex at 10A added 20 jumping penalties and 20.4 in time to their score to finish on a three-phase total of 82.1. Green, who has been based in the U.K. for the past two years with Tim and Jonelle Price, were the second out for the team, utilizing the valuable information brought back to the team after Dutton’s round. Green produced a fast and accurate trip with Highly Suspicious, adding just ten time faults to their original dressage score of 31.3 and finishing on a 41.3 for 13th overall.

Building on her recent success in the CCI4*-S in Lexington, Ky., in April, Farley and Invictus were efficient and clear around the track, and just added time, crossing through the finish in six minutes and 40 seconds for 13.2 added time penalties. The pair would take 19th overall individually. Caras and her long-time partner Sommersby were bold and forward in their approach to the cross-country as the most veteran pair for the team and serving as the anchor combination. The pair added just 9.2 in time to their impressive cross-country round to finish the weekend on a final score of 39.4.

Earlier in the week, Alexander O’Neal (Reddick, FL) and Redtail Penumbra, who were originally selected to compete on the team, withdrew after the dressage phase as the result of an untimely foot abscess. O’Neal and Redtail Penumbra will reroute and now target the Bramham CCI4*-L.

Molly Duda (Menlo Park, CA) and Disco Traveler, who are also a part of the European Development Tour, competed as individuals and took 22nd overall in their preparation for the Bramham CCI4*-L later this month.

The Tour offers two tracks for the selected combinations depending on their goals and competition plans. Tour participants will compete in the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ Bicton CCIO4*-NC-S (GBR) at Bicton’s May International Horse Trials from May 22-25. Additionally, the athletes will have a choice of competing in the CCI4*-S or CCI4*-L (GBR) at the Defender Bramham International Horse Trials (GBR) from June 4-8 or the CCI4*-S or CCI5*-L at the Longines Luhmühlen Horse Trials (GER) from June 11-15.

The Tour is supported by the Dutta Corporation, who’s expertise and dedication to safe equine travel make it possible for athletes and their horses to travel abroad and represent the United States.

Bicton International (UK): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]

Tuesday News & Notes from Kentucky Performance Products

By on May 27, 2025 12:01 am -

A big congrats to our team of riders over in Europe for the USEF Eventing European Development Tour, who picked up silver in the first FEI Eventing Nations Cup at Bicton this past weekend. Next, we’ll see many of these riders at Luhmühlen in Germany across the 4*-S and 5* divisions, so stay tuned for more from the tour!

U.S. Events Opening for Entries Today

Summer Coconino H.T. and Western Underground, Inc. TR,N,BN 3 Day Event (AZ); Huntington Farm H.T. (VT); The Maryland Horse Trials at Loch Moy Farm (MD); Genesee Valley Hunt H.T. (NY)

U.S. Events Closing Entries Today

Golden Spike H.T. (UT); Aspen Farm H.T. (WA); Shepherd Ranch Pony Club H.T. (CA); Silverwood Farm Spring H.T. (WI); Horse Park of New Jersey H.T. I (NJ); Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T. (MD); Full Gallop Farm H.T. (SC); Essex H.T. (NJ)

News & Reading

Are you planning on a Classic Three-Day Event this year? This is one of the best ways to learn all about conditioning and producing a horse for this throwback to the original format of eventing, and there are some considerations to keep in mind when it comes to fitness. Kim Goto Miner has some advice for you here.

Miss Lulu Herself stamped herself as a two-time Arena Eventing champion at the Devon Horse Show this week under Boyd Martin, who took home another hometown hero win in front of a packed house on Sunday night. Read about Boyd and Lulu’s big night here.

A large number of horse deaths in eventing do not occur from falls at fences, research has shown. A new study, published in Equine Veterinary Journal, aimed to gather data to understand the reasons for equine fatalities in eventing. In the absence of full data sets being publicly available, information was gathered from various media reports between 1998 and 2023. Read more on Horse & Hound here.

Use these six tips to help transform your horse’s topline from under-developed to well-toned.

Sponsor Corner: Kentucky Performance Products

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And don’t forget the gut! ProbioticWise™ from Kentucky Performance Products supports a healthy digestive tract—essential for performance, recovery, and overall wellness. Ask your vet if it’s right for your horse.

Video Break

Hear from one of this weekend’s winners at VHC Eventing at Virginia Horse Center!

Boyd Martin and Miss Lulu Herself Make it Two for Two at Devon Arena Eventing

By on May 26, 2025 2:05 pm -

Sunday night at the Devon Horse Show in PA concluded with yet another distinct discipline on display in the Dixon Oval. Spectators filled the stands for the annual Devon Arena Eventing, held under the lights to cap off the first full week of the show.

Boyd Martin and Miss Lulu Herself. Photo by Mane Source Media for Devon Horse Show.

One of only a few events of its kind in the world, Devon’s Arena Eventing is unlike any other jumping event at the show. The course combines cross-country obstacles with traditional show jumps and spans both the Wheeler Ring and the Dixon Oval.

In the end, it was defending champion Boyd Martin on Miss Lulu Herself who topped the class, taking home the winner’s share of the $50,000 prize fund.

“I love coming here, just because a lot of our personal friends would never, ever come watch an event, you know, and we have a huge circle of friends in our community that are outside horses,” Boyd told The Chronicle of the Horse. “I kind of like being a bit anonymous amongst them. There are lots of kids, parents and their friends, and this is sort of one event that they can come see what we do, so it’s kind of nice. It’s a great event. There are not many events where we sort of ride at night in front of a crowd. So it’s a real privilege and honor to be here at Devon. It’s got so much history and such an aura about it.”

Boyd also piloted Ocala Horse Properties’ Shanroe Cooley, a former ride of Liz Halliday’s, to third place in the division. Shannon Lilley and Ideal HX also turned in a speedy clear round to secure second place on the podium. Caroline Pamukcu and Redfield Dexter picked up fourth, and Ema Klugman rounds out the top five with Chiraz, and also finished in the top 10 with RF Redfern.

Boyd Martin and Miss Lulu Herself. Photo by Mane Source Media for Devon Horse Show.

Full results can be found here. You can also hear more from Boyd and see more photos from the night in The Chronicle of the Horse‘s full report here.

Weekend Winners: VHC, Woodside, Coconino, Willow Draw, & Flora Lea

By on May 26, 2025 12:56 pm -

Another wonderful weekend of Eventing in the books!

Congrats to all of our Weekend Winners on successful outings! As always, we’re taking a moment out of our Monday to celebrate the weekend gone by, and give a shout out to so many great rides… along with a special shout out to the winner of our Unofficial Low Score Award, Annie Desmond and Little Elf, who scored a 20.0 in the Senior Beginner Novice Rider B division at Woodside.

VHC Eventing (VA): [Website][Scoring]

CCI 3*S: Ashley Kehoe and Daktaris (47.4)
CCI 2*L: Emily Hamel and Kingston (31.5)
CCI 2*S: Lucienne Bellissimo and Tremanton (24.9)
CCI 1*L: James Power and Brambleridge Ponder the Truth (Patrick) (37.0)
Advanced CT: William Coleman and Very Dignified (28.0)
Advanced/Intermediate: Chris Talley and FE Marco Polo (31.5)
Open Intermediate: Ariel Grald and Libris Charlotte (35.2)
Open Preliminary A: Devin Robel and Gillou (25.8)
Open Preliminary B: Daniel Clasing and Sportsfield All Out (29.7)
Preliminary Rider: Brooke Kahl and Nata Montada SCF (33.3)
Modified Rider: Lee Maher and HTF Charming Cooley (27.8)
Open Modified: Caitlin Romeo and Fernhill B Good (23.0)
Junior Training Rider: Iselin Byars and CSF Dassett Decoy (33.4)
Open Training: Susan Plumb and Bugsy Malone (23.3)
Senior Training Rider: Jessica Sappenfield and Westwood (29.2)
Training Horse: Tori Nuckols and Nonpareil SPF (31.7)
Junior Novice Rider: Olivia Hickman and Rocktop Dreamer (28.6)
Novice Horse: Ariel Grald and MGH Catch Me (27.5)
Open Novice: Kaitlin Clasing and Pamorkus BSW (31.0)
Senior Novice Rider: Catherine Ramsey and Cakewalk (30.3)
Beginner Novice Horse: Domenica Kujawa and Cesar (26.2)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Olivia Swank and Truly A Moon Shot (36.8)
Open Beginner Novice: Lauren Sumner and Excel Star Babadook (26.2)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider A: Lara Morris and Swan’s Shine Brightly (30.3)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider B: Rachael Grice and Meadow Dancer (27.1)
Starter A: Hayley Palmer and Perplexing (31.7)
Starter B: Allison Smith and Threat Level Midnight (26.7)

Woodside Spring H.T. (VA): [Website][Scoring]

Advanced: Tamra Smith and Kynan (47.3)
Open Intermediate: Tamra Smith and Jutopia (31.0)
Open Preliminary: James Alliston and Made by Leontine EB (25.8)
Preliminary Rider: Olivia Baca and Casskinero (29.0)
Modified Horse Match: Stephanie Goodman and Diranca (30.4)
Modified Rider Match: Saulo Tristao and Cartaleyo JF (32.7)
Open Modified: Tommy Greengard and Cooley Sligo (28.0)
Junior Training Rider: Zoe Barker and Kontessa M (30.3)
Senior Training Rider: Nicci Guzzetta and Little Richard (26.6)
Training Amateur: Clara Marks and Crystal Blue Persuasion (26.1)
Open Training: Tommy Greengard and EWSZ Java (30.3)
Junior Novice Rider: Michaela Smith and Cashmaker (27.2)
Senior Novice Rider: Lisa Peecook and SZ Raudo (23.6)
Senior Novice Amateur: Dana Chase and CARADETTE SZ (28.1)
Open Novice: Tommy Greengard and SD FORT I VALENT (23.9)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider A: Sophia Kuzma and CF Quintano (29.7)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider B: Emma de Vos Benavente and Cat Ballou (31.8)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider A: Gretchen Pope and Optimistic Sol (32.0)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider B: Annie Desmond and Little Elf (20.0)
Open Beginner Novice A: Tommy Greengard and Sailing Time (33.3)
Open Beginner Novice B: Sigourney Jellins and Lausbub Z (28.2)
Junior Starter Rider: Aliana Reiss and Cre Ard Lady (29.3)
Senior Starter Rider: Mohamed Mostafa and Rodrigue Du Granit (28.7)
Open Starter: Ashley Cox and Leilani (28.0)

Spring Coconino H.T. (AZ): [Website][Scoring]


Preliminary-Open: Lindsey Smith and Lucky Sun (32.6)
Modified-Open: Anastasia Keyser and Bellatrix (59.7)
Training-Open: Jennifer Buchanan and Rumer MWF (42.1)
Novice-Open: Angela Carmitchel and Big Fame (25.6)
Beginner Novice-Open A: Jessicca Butorac and Ready Freddy (22.9)
Beginner Novice-Open B: David Timchak and Ole Boy (36.2)
Starter-Open A: Erin Phipps and Finn MacCool (33.7)
Starter-Open B: Julia San Roman and Pragmatic (27.1)
1-Day: Susan Charlton and Prince Buttercup (31.0)

Willow Draw Charity H.T. (TX): [Website][Scoring]

Open Training: Albany Castor and Aurelius (28.1)
Training Rider: Julia Pinell and Street Fighter (29.4)
Novice Rider Jr: Sarah Jackson and WHF Wangari (26.1)
Novice Rider Sr: Scottiann Evans and Chance Encounter (28.7)
Open Novice: Karen Kruse and Viktor CSF (25.1)
BNovice Rider: Julia Engle and Fernhill Philm Star (26.5)
Open BNovice: Katie Carney and Talk of Texas (32.4)
Open Starter Jr: Grace Fahrenbruch and SF Sassafras (34.7)
Open Starter Sr: Kimberly Stafford and Charmed Night HU (23.0)

Flora Lea Spring H.T. (NJ): [Website][Scoring]

Open Preliminary: Matthew Lewis and Quaden AF (38.3)
Open Training: Holly Payne Caravella and Princess Candy (27.7)
Training Rider: Peyton Frankovich and Ben-jamin’ Traveler (36.2)
Novice Rider: Valentine Jie and Hillowan Bob (35.7)
Open Novice: Lacey Ogden and Cooley Ground Control (23.6)
Beginner Novice Rider: Laura Poveromo and Belmont (32.7)
Open Beginner Novice: Pam Wiedemann and DF Andrew (28.8)
Young Event Horse 4 Year Old: Ella Marinucci and Authentic Lies (80.000)
Young Event Horse 5 Year Old: Hayley Frielick and Dunedin LB Muze (79.150)

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier Claims Baborówko CCI4*-L Victory with Kiarado d’Arville

By on May 26, 2025 9:00 am -

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Kiarado d’Arville. Photo courtesy of Equestrian Festival Baborókow.

The Equestrian Festival Baborówko 2025 concluded Sunday with a spectacular finale, crowning champions in the event’s top-level classes and celebrating outstanding performances from riders across the world. With ideal weather and enthusiastic crowds, the final day delivered intense emotions, technical mastery, and sporting drama befitting one of Europe’s most respected equestrian events.

In the CCI4*-L, the most prestigious and demanding class of the Festival – the KUHN Maszyny Rolnicze Trophy under the patronage of the Wielkopolska Region – Belgium’s Lara De Liedekerke-Meier secured a commanding victory aboard Kiarado D’Arville, finishing on 44.5 penalty points. Switzerland’s Felix Vogg and Frieda claimed second place with 48.4 points, while the Netherlands’ Florinoor Hoogland took third with Hontoni on 62.8 points.

“From the first time I came here I really really liked it. Huge facilities, so many sand arenas. The stables are really good and you know you have a lot of place (…). I love coming here and it is every year in my calendar” – said Lara De Liedekerke-Meier, the winner of CCI4*-L, about the whole Equestrian Festival Baborówko.

Julia Krajewski and Uelzener’s Nickel. Photo courtesy of Equestrian Festival Baborókow.

The CCI4*-S, for the Prize of Patron of the Show Roman Roszkiewicz, was dominated by Julia Krajewski of Germany, who led from dressage to the final round and clinched the win with Uelzener’s Nickel, maintaining her score of 26.8 penalty points. Calvin Böckmann followed in second with Altair De La Cense (37.8 pts), and Lara de Liedekerke-Meier once again stepped onto the podium, this time in third with Ducati D’Arville (39.4 pts).

Special trophies were also awarded on this final day. Julia Krajewski received the Apart Trophy for Best Female Rider and the Trophy for Best Dressage Performance, confirming her outstanding overall form. The Trophy for Best Cross Country Performance was awarded jointly to Calvin Böckmann and Lara De Liedekerke-Meier. The Trophy for Best Polish Rider was awarded to Paweł Warszawski, highlighting national excellence in an elite international field.

“I know that Nickel is the most genuine horse. Whatever you point him at, he jumps” – said Julia Krajewski, the winner of CCI4*-S, about her special horse.

Photo courtesy of Equestrian Festival Baborókow.

In the CCI3*-S for the Energys Polska Trophy, Antonia Baumgart of Germany maintained her lead to take victory aboard Ris De Talm with 26.3 points. She was followed by Pia Leuwer with Hanami 4 (33.5 pts) and Lea Siegl riding Dark Gambler (34 pts).

“I’m absolutely pleased with my horse. He was absolutely fantastic during the whole weekend. From start to finish, just perfect” – said Antonia Baumgart, the winners of CCI3*-S, about her horse, which was bought a few years before at the auction in Baborówko.

The CCI2*-S, sponsored by Grupa DUON, was won by Brandon Schäfer-Gehrau and Cadorico with an impressive finish on 23.1 points. Nicolai Aldinger and Giganta placed second (26.4 pts), while Antonia Baumgart, again on the podium, came third with Blaya D’Ha Z (26.7 pts).

In the national CNC100 class, Nicolai Aldinger topped the leaderboard with Quality De La Vie (29.7 pts), followed by Sanna Siltakorpi on Buba D’Mues (30.9 pts), and Aldinger again in third with Kilcandra Bonnie Princess (31.6 pts).

The CNC-18 category saw Julia Rohde take first place with Kingston (26.9 pts), while Rita Vaarala on Sunnyside 3 and Pola Stachura riding Pepper N shared second and third place respectively, both finishing on 30.6 points.

The 2025 edition of Equestrian Festival Baborówko once again proved to be a celebration of international equestrian sport, uniting top talent, passionate supporters, and a commitment to excellence. With multiple nations represented on the podium and many young horses and riders showcasing promise for the future, Baborówko continues to strengthen its position as a key event on the global eventing calendar.

Equestrian Festival Baborówko (Poland): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]

Monday News & Notes from Futuretrack

By on May 26, 2025 12:01 am -

A legacy of hope and courage lives on through the Hannah Francis Award, which is now accepting applications for 2025.

Created in memory of Hannah Francis—an incredibly brave young eventer whose battle with osteosarcoma inspired the world—this annual award honors an Inspirational Young Eventer who embodies the spirit Hannah so fiercely demonstrated: dreaming bigger than fear, riding through adversity, and giving back to the community.

Hannah’s story, shared through her beloved soft toy, Willberry the Wonder Pony, captivated tens of thousands. Her charity, Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony, continues to fund critical research into bone cancer and grant equine wishes to others facing serious illness. The award’s bronze trophy, a beautiful sculpture of Hannah and her horse Mavis created by artist Amy Goodman, symbolizes not just the trials Hannah faced, but the strength, resilience, and passion she gave to this sport.

To learn more or apply, visit here. Let Hannah’s legacy remind us: it’s not just about the accomplishments — it’s about the ride.

U.S. Weekend Results

VHC Eventing (VA): [Website] [Scores]

Woodside Spring H.T. (VA): [Website] [Scores]

Spring Coconino H.T. (AZ): [Website] [Scores]

Willow Draw Charity H.T. (TX): [Website] [Scores]

Flora Lea Spring H.T. (NJ): [Website] [Scores]

Major International Events

Bicton International (UK): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]

Equestrian Festival Baborówko (Poland): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]

News & Reading

Fear is an emotion we’ve ALL experienced, and oftentimes it rears its head at the most inopportune times. Fear also has many layers to it, which means understanding it and its hold on us is key. In his latest Pressure Proof Column, Coach Daniel Stewart offers up some words of wisdom on navigating fear. Read it here.

Many congratulations to Canadian Olympian Jessie Phoenix, who has been selected to receive a $20,000 travel grant to help her compete at CHIO Aachen in July with Freedom GS. Freedom GS is a special horse for Jessie, having been her partner for the Paris Olympics, a win in the TerraNova 4*-S this spring, and a podium finish in the Lexington 4*-S in April, setting up for what could be a great weekend in Germany. Read more here.

Does your off-track Thoroughbred seem to lose all her zen as soon as you leave your home property? Really, this advice can apply to any horse, but if you struggle with this, then Aubrey Graham’s latest Thoroughbred Logic column on Horse Nation should be your next read. See what Aubrey recommends here.

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Video Break

Take a ride around Waredaca’s Training cross country course!

Blue Ribbons in the Blue Ridge Mountains: Hamel and Kingston Win CCI2*-L at VHC Eventing, Presented by Capital Square

By on May 25, 2025 8:59 pm -

Emily Hamel and Kingston. Photos by: Veronica Green-Gott.

The remaining two FEI divisions at VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square, wrapped up with inaugural International wins for the leaders of both long-format divisions, the CCI2*-L and the CCI1*-L. Emily Hamel and her new partner, Kingston, won the CCI2*-L division on a score of 31.5. In the CCI1*-L, James Power took home the blue ribbon aboard Brambleridge Ponder the Truth with a score of 37.

Hamel may be a seasoned five-star event rider with the iconic gray gelding, 18-year-old Corvette, but this weekend ended in a crowning achievement for any rider– her first FEI win. While she may not have come home with a blue ribbon prior to this weekend, Hamel has come close many times throughout her career, with two podium finishes and eleven top ten finishes thus far.

“I was really proud of him,” Hamel said of Kingston, owned by Black Flag Option. “This is his first FEI and I’ve only had him since November, so it’s a new partnership. He’s relatively new to eventing and he just tried so hard. Coming into the weekend, I just wanted to have a good run, so winning was icing on the cake.”

The 2015 Dutch Warmblood gelding seems poised to continue in the hoofprints of Hamel’s previous five-star horses. Despite never having seen terrain like that at the Virginia Horse Center, which is frequently referred to as a “mini Bromont,” Kingston rose to the challenge with ease.

“He was great,” Hamel said. “I didn’t know what to expect, because he’s never seen that many hills, but he just loved it. He had such a good time running up and down, and he’s so quick and clever. It was a really fun ride.”

Emily Hamel and Kingston. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott.

Heading into the final phase, Hamel had been trying not to get her hopes too high. Second place winner Tim Bourke and Sing to Me Cooley, owned by Hedgerow Farm, were less than a half of a point behind Hamel. If Hamel wanted to hold onto her lead, her only option was a double clear round. Luckily, Kingston’s show jumping background gave her the minute edge she needed. The pair crossed the finish flags six seconds ahead of the optimum time.

Kate Servais and her own Life Story moved up from fourth place to take home third with a score of 40.2.

It was a big weekend for Hamel. Celebrating her birthday the Wednesday before the event, her first FEI win was possibly the best present she could have asked for. “It feels really cool [to win],” Hamel said. “I’ve done a million FEIs at this point, but I haven’t won an FEI. So it’s extra special.”

Hamel returned to the Virginia Horse Center this weekend after a long period away. “I love it here,” she said. “I haven’t been here in years. I think the last time I was here was when I was working for Phillip [Dutton], so that was a while ago. It’s such a beautiful facility. They’ve done a lot of great upgrades, like the arenas are great to ride in, and the cross country– I think they got some new fences– and it was just a really good experience, overall. Everybody here working and volunteering has been really helpful.”

In the CCI1*-L, James Power found himself heading into the show jumping phase poised to win after yesterday’s leader, Alyssa Phillips and her own Centerfold, did not pass the horse inspection on Sunday morning. With an 11-point lead heading into the ring, Power and Brambleridge Ponder the Truth, owned by the rider, used up some of their overall buffer after knocking a pole at fence nine to finish on a final score of 37. Annabelle Friend and the creatively named Tater’CZalad, owned by the rider, took home second place with a score of 44. Liana Anason and her own Biscuit Snatcher earned a score of 46, sliding into third place.

Like Hamel, it’s the pair’s inaugural FEI win, made even more special by “Patrick’s” comeback from a serious injury in the fall. “I’ve never won an FEI before, and he’s coming off a season ending injury from last year,” Power said. “Being able to come into this season and winning this FEI means so much to me. My mom always helps me out so much, with grooming and just being here supporting me. So I’m overall really happy with how it went.”

James Power and Brambleridge Ponder The Truth.

In the past, Power said he’s struggled to get Patrick to relax at events, but didn’t spare a second thought for the challenging terrain at the Virginia Horse Center. Patrick may be only 15.3 hands, but the Connemara/Thoroughbred is a cross country machine.

“My rides this weekend were pretty good,” Power said. “I got him really relaxed for dressage, he was really good for that. But the cross country is always really good– he’s a beast out there all the time. Show jumping is not my strongest phase. I would say he’s pretty solid at it, but I get really nervous in there. So, I got the one rail, but I’m not disappointed at all with how this weekend went.”

Power, who found time to support his fellow competitors by volunteering at the Horse Center over the weekend, also won the CCI1*-L Young Rider Award, sponsored by Hyperion Stud. Friend came in second place, with Anson taking third. The Award is given to the young rider with the lowest score in each division. Power has been involved in the Young Rider program, which aims to promote community and educational opportunities among up-and-coming riders, for some time. He competed at the Young Rider Championships at the Maryland International in 2024.

James Power, Annabelle Friend and Liana Anson earning the Young Rider Awards, sponsored by Hyperion Stud.

According to Power, the Young Rider program has helped him find a community. “My friend Mia, that’s how I met her,” Power said. “We didn’t know each other before, and we’ve become really good friends, hanging out outside of horses and stuff. Also Claire Allen, and a bunch of other people that I never knew before. I would say the number one thing that I’ve gotten from Young Riders is making a lot of friends and making connections with people.”

Kate Servais and Life Story.

Kate Servais, head groom for five-star event rider Sharon White, won the Hyperion Stud Young Rider Award in the CCI2*-L with Life Story. She purchased the 14-year-old Holsteiner/Thoroughbred from Olympian Caroline Pamukcu.

“I am so proud of him,” Servais said. “He tried so hard all weekend, and I just absolutely adore him so much. He’s so perfect. He tries so hard all the time, and he’s just the sweetest creature ever.”

Historically, Servais said that finding relaxation at competitions has been difficult for the pair, but this weekend they had a breakthrough in the show jumping phase. “We’ve really struggled,” she said. “I’ve struggled with the tenseness and relaxation in the ring. He’s so in tune with me. He’s such a telepathic horse. He can tell any emotion I’m feeling sooner than I can. So going in there and just jumping around so soft and supple and happy– I was so pleased with him.”

Over the last several months, Servais says that “Basil” has transformed her riding for the better. “He’s just changed my riding– learning to relax, learning to calm down, not take everything so seriously and be so intense all the time,” Servais said. “Having more of a sensitive horse has taught me to be quieter and more reactive in the right way, in a calm, quiet way.”

VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square, will return to the Virginia Horse Center on October 30th through November 2nd for another weekend of competition, this time in the crisp fall air against a backdrop of autumn leaves in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Entries open on September 16th and close on October 14th.

Without the support of sponsors like Capital Square, Hyperion Stud, Triple Crown Feed, Old Dominion Equine, and Blue Ridge Equine, events like VHC Eventing wouldn’t be possible.

VHC Eventing (VA): [Website] [Scores]

Laura Collett and London 52 Dominate in Spectacular Three-Peat at Bicton

By on May 25, 2025 8:52 pm -

Team GB takes the first Nations Cup leg. Photo by ESP Photographic.

On the final day of this year’s Bicton International Horse Trials (22-25 May) we saw a spectacular day of sport, but one rider stole the show.

Laura Collett was the rider of the moment at Bicton International Horse Trials in the TopSpec CCI4*-S leading the British team to victory in the first leg of the 2025 FEI Eventing Nations Cup™. The winning British team comprised Laura (riding London 52), pathfinder Gemma Stevens, who looks to have another Chilli Morning-sired star in Chilli King in 14th, Barnie Brotherton, who made an excellent British team debut in eighth place on DHI King Nelson, and Selina Milnes on Cooley Snapchat in fifth place.

Technical Director and Eventing Performance Manager Richard ‘Dickie’ Waygood commented, “There’s so many highlights to mention, with some lovely young horses that will have gone away from here with a really good experience. It has been great to get Barnie on to the team, giving him a wonderful opportunity and he has really shone from beginning to end, which is great for the future. All in all, it’s been a great day for the team and lots of exciting prospects.”

Laura Collett and London 52. Photo by ESP Photographic.

The US team, several of whose riders are spending the summer in Europe as members of the US Development Squad, finished second with Jenny Caras the highest placed rider in 10th on Sommersby.

Laura, a renowned specialist around Bicton’s spectacular cross country course, led the CCI4*-S from the start with a record dressage score for the Devon event, 18.5, on her dual Olympic gold medallist and 2022 Badminton winner, co-owned with Karen Bartlett and Keith Scott, London 52.

She was also third on Dacapo – echoing her first and third placings on the same horses in 2023. Her win on London 52 makes the pair the sole winners of the CCI4*-S since its inaugural run. Their beautiful cross country round, with just 2.4 time penalties, was the fastest of the day. “It was amazing,” Collett commented fresh from her round. “All my horses have been incredible but when I get on [London 52] I get quite emotional because he is just unbelievable. I’m just the luckiest girl in the world to have a horse like him. What he has done for my career has been beyond imaginable. He loves performing in front of a crowd and is at his happiest when people are clapping and cheering, so he’s a happy boy today.”

Samantha Lissington, representing New Zealand, was second on Lord Seekonig and the experienced British combination of Kitty King and Vendredi Biats, holders of European team gold and individual silver medals, were fourth.

Elizabeth Barratt and Big Boss Melo. Photo by ESP Photographic.

Elizabeth Barratt was crowned the Succeed British Young Rider Champion at the start of the day. It was a rollercoaster week for Barratt, but in the end her clear on the ever-reliable 14-year-old Big Boss Melo, owned by Barratt Eventing, snatched the win back for her. “’It means so much to me,” commented Elizabeth once she found out she had the win. “It’s so special, and not something that I ever thought would happen. There are so many amazing young riders at the moment and it’s amazing to be able to compete against them.’”

Symonds & Sampson CCI3*-L saw a shake up of the leaderboard over Krissy Spiller’s show jumping course, with Ros Canter’s one, two finally being intercepted by a stellar clear from Yasmin Ingham and Kinda Corvette.

Ros Canter Silversters Finesse. Photo by ESP Photographic.

The in-form Ros Canter, fresh from a brilliant Badminton victory a fortnight ago, added another trophy to her cabinet with a win on Deborah and Fergus Langstaff’s eight-year-old chestnut mare, Silvesters Finesse, and third on Armscote Explorer. “I’m over the moon. This year both horses have come out and started to really show that they’re top class,” said Ros, post-show jumping round. “I’m delighted for Silvester Finesse’s owner, who sadly isn’t at Bicton today, she has been very supportive and so I’m really pleased for this result with her.”

Kitty King and Dassett Flight. Photo by ESP Photographic.

Kitty King and Elizabeth Golby’s Dassett Flight Path led throughout to win the Equilume CCI2*-L. Tom McEwen followed in second on Brookfield Danny De Muze with Laura Collett and Cooley Iceage in third. “It’s been an excellent week, I always really enjoy coming to Bicton, it’s one of my favourite venues and being based in Wiltshire it’s really nice to support local events,” commented Kitty. “We’ve had a great time with Dassett Flight Path and he’s learnt a lot at this event. He’s just come out and performed at every phase; he’s not let me down or himself down and been a little trooper all week.”

There were universal plaudits for the team at the Bicton International Horse Trials, which catered for around 180 horses over the weekend, producing immaculate footing on Helen West’s cross country course which was beautifully presented and rode well throughout. “It’s been a real pleasure to watch so many horses, both experienced and novice, enjoying themselves,” said Helen. “This is what the sport is all about, and we’ve had really exciting competitions and been lucky enough to have seen both established stars and ones to watch for the future.”

There were special prizes given throughout the sections from the wonderful supporting companies Tackroom Distillery, Redpost Equestrian, Wyvern Equestrian, Darts Farm, Yeti, Equilume, Chatham, Halley Floral Designs, Nyetimber, Darts Farm, Gatehouse Trailer Bar, Taste of Sidmouth and The Kitchen at Combe.

Bicton International (UK): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]

Entry Preview + How to Watch Arena Eventing at the Devon Horse Show

By on May 25, 2025 9:30 am -

Boyd Martin & Contestor. Winners of the 2019 Devon Arena Eventing. Photo courtesy of The Book LLC.

We’re getting ready for some Arena Eventing at the Devon Horse Show with an iconic class that visits this historic competition each year. A total of 16 entries are on the docket for this eventing’s competition, which will go over two rounds and begin at 7 p.m. ET. If you want to watch live, you can do so on USEF Network by ClipMyHorse.TV here.

The full entry list can be found here. Featuring on the entry list is multi-winner here, Boyd Martin, who’s entered with Miss Lulu Herself, who’s won here at Devon before, as well as Shanroe Cooley, a former ride of Liz Halliday’s. We’ll also see an appearance from U.S. Olympian Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake, Ema Klugman with both Chiraz and RF Redfern, Buck Davidson and Sorocaima, Shannon Lilley and Ideal HX, and many other top names.

Tune in live starting at 7 p.m. and see who will be crowned this year’s champion! Results and orders of go will be found here.

Sunday Links

By on May 25, 2025 12:01 am -

Save the date! Boyd and Silva Martin’s Windurra Camp is returning this year from August 1-3! This camp, which started in 2024, is back by popular demand and will feature plenty of opportunities for both ridden and unmounted instruction. Registration information is coming soon, so be sure to follow Windurra on social for the latest so you can get those applications in.

U.S. Weekend Preview

VHC Eventing (VA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Woodside Spring H.T. (VA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Spring Coconino H.T. (AZ): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Willow Draw Charity H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Flora Lea Spring H.T. (NJ): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]

Major International Events

Bicton International (UK): [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream]

Equestrian Festival Baborówko (Poland): [Website] [Schedule] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream]

Links & Reading

Tracey Bienemann And Venezuelan River Earn ‘Ironic’ Fair Hill Win

How to Ride the Horse You Thought You Bought

Best of the Blogs: Rockin’ with Breed. Ride. Event.

What You Need To Know: 2025 Devon Horse Show

British Eventing Support Trust awarded grant from Kairos Philanthropy

Video Break

Take a peek at the glow up happening ahead of the 2025 Longines Luhmühlen CCI5* next month!