Classic Eventing Nation

Monday News & Notes from Fleeceworks

By on Apr 1, 2019 12:01 am -

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Very special treat to see the remarkable partnership that is @jontyeventing & ‘Art’ COOLEY ROURKES DRIFT who made an appearance at @bedeevents Belton today What a special treat to see the hard work that Jonty and the team have put into his recovery and the gorgeous Art lapping up the applause from the excited crowd – a privilege to witness. #Eventing #BritishEventing #BE #XC #Equestrian #Dressage #Showjumping #CrossCountry #EquestrianPhotography #EquinePhotography #Horse #Cheval #Pferd #Riding #HorseTrials #Twohearts #GoEventing #RidersWithStyle #EventingStyle #RuralLifestyle #EquestrianLife #EquestrianStyle #HorsesofInstagram #HorsePhoto #HannahColePhotography #Sony #Alpha

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One year after his victory in the Grantham Cup at Belton, Jonty Evans returned to the venue to make his first public appearance riding Cooley Rorkes Drift since his traumatic brain injury at Tattersalls in June 2018. Jonty spent six weeks in a coma and has made nothing short of a miraculous recovery, returning to riding and even tackling his first full show jumping course since the fall last month. Be sure to follow Jonty Evans Eventing on Facebook to track his continued progress in his recovery.

[Jonty Evans and Cooley Rorkes Drift delight crowds with Belton appearance]

National Holiday: National Sourdough Bread Day

Weekend Results:

Galway Downs International H.T. [Final Scores]

Belton International [Final Scores]

Morven Park Spring H.T. [Final Scores]

Rocking Horse Spring H.T. [Final Scores]

Full Gallop Farm March II H.T. [Final Scores]

Texas Rose March H.T. [Final Scores]

Your Monday News & Notes:

Tom McEwen delivered a surprise win with Figaro Van Het Broekxhof in the Grantham Cup CCI4*-S at Belton. Just four of the 89 combinations that completed cross country managed to catch the optimum time. Follow the link for an audio interview with Tom discussing his win. [Tom McEwen wins Lycetts Grantham Cup at Belton]

Several German superstars had their first international runs of the season this weekend in the CCI3*-S at Luhmühlen. Reigning German National Champions Julia Krajewski and Samourai du Thot won on 23.9, followed closely by Badminton-bound Ingrid Klimke and SAP Hale Bob OLD. Michael Jung had an easy cruise around with Lennox 364, who is very much on the radar as his potential European Championships mount. [Luhmühlen Results]

“This sport has taught me to be thankful for the little things and take nothing for granted.” The USEA’s Now On Course series profiles a variety of different riders throughout the country. This week, we meet Sam Kelly and learn about her journey to balance college and compete three horses. [Now On Course: Things I Would Tell My 14-Year-Old Self]

Your Monday Video: Jonty and Art’s triumphant return at Belton!

Emilee Libby Is ‘Not the Bridesmaid’ at Galway CCI4*-S; Tamie Smith Takes CCI3*-S Win

By on Mar 31, 2019 11:30 am -

Emilee Libby and Jakobi. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Emilee Libby very much wanted to protect the Galway Downs International Horse Trials CCI4*-S lead in what would be her biggest win with Jakobi, and two major distractions didn’t stand in their way.

First, Emilee noticed runners-up Tamie Smith and Wembley circle late on their course as she approached the startbox. Once underway, the loudspeaker announced that Frankie Thieriot Stutes and Chatwin had parted company after a slip on the grass between jumps. “It was actually more nerve wracking,” said the 31-year-old Emilee. “I was worried whether she was OK.” (Frankie and Chatwin are both fine.)

 Jakobi, however, gave her no additional distractions as they sailed around Jay Hambly’s track. The 10-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding (Ustinov x Expression, by Coriano), owned by the rider and Linda Libby, is a powerful athlete whose energy in Saturday’s clear show jumping round had given Emilee pause as to whether she could manage it on cross country. “He was with me on course, my half halts were working and he was moving off my leg,” she reported.

Emilee Libby and Jakobi. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

With her training business based at Galway Downs, she is careful to keep cross-country schooling to a minimum so that Jakobi is freshly impressed with the obstacles in competition. A new bit arrangement is working well at this level, too. “I’m usually not a fan of gag bits, but he is going really well in a simple rope cavesson with a gag,” she said. “I think he prefers the poll pressure and he was listening really well through the whole track.”

As a junior, Emilee was something of a child prodigy: first 1* at 14, first 2* at 16, first Kentucky 4* at 19, plus three North American Young Riders Championship appearances. She credits coach Buck Davidson for much of her success and is grateful to work with USET chef d’equipe Erik Duvander this week at Galway toward her hopes of more team competition. “The whole team aspect is a lot of fun for me,” she said.

And, after several red ribbons in major competitions: “I’m finally not the bridesmaid!”

James Alliston and Pandora. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

James Alliston and Pandora. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

It’s possible that Pandora’s petite size made it easier for James Alliston to navigate the sharp right turn he opted for after the BarnMaster #4ABC combination, which took them through some low hanging branches. “That was a bit stupid!” James said, describing the smooth rest of the course as “a testament to the mare’s confidence and bravery.”

The gamble contributed to crossing through the flags four seconds under the 6:30 time limit to finish second on a 38.6. That pleased both James and Pandora’s many fans. “Everywhere we go, people call out ‘Good luck Pandora!’ It’s kind of cool.” James and the 9-year-old palomino Swedish Warmblood (Prostor x Camellia E, by Comefast), owned by Laura Boyer, finished 2nd.

Sabrina Glaser and Rembrandt. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Sabrina Glaser and Rembrandt. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

“James told me not to make that turn,” laughed third-place finisher Sabrina Glaser, who travelled from British Columbia with five horses and several students to gain much-appreciated international mileage. Having had a high fault show jumping round Saturday, she was surprised to learn of her third-place finish with Rembrandt after Sunday’s cross country.

“I saw Jimmy (Alliston) do it and we had some time to make up, so I had to make some tough decisions,” she said. “I pulled on the right rein and kept my head down.” It wasn’t their smoothest outing, Sabrina acknowledged, but not bad at all considering it was only their second time running after four months riding in an indoor ring though Canada’s winter.

Mallory Hogan and Clarissa Purisima. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Young rider Mallory Hogan and Clarissa Purisima had some time penalties but moved up to fourth in her first CCI4*-S adventure. Andrea Baxter and Indy 500 slipped to fifth after a refusal, while dressage leader Frankie and Chatwin had a slip mid-course and parted company. Along with a refusal that Tamie Smith attributed to inattentiveness, on her part and Wembley’s, she jumped the wrong first fence and was eliminated after completing the whole course.

“Otherwise, he jumped all of the hard parts great,” Tamie said. “It’s kind of the smack in the head we needed before Badminton Horse Trials,” which awaits the powerhouse pair in early May.

The CCI4*-S awarded ribbons through sixth place, with the winner receiving $1000 in prize money; $500 and $50 gift certificates from Devoucoux and Ride On Video, respectively; three photographs from Marcus Greene Outdoor Photography and one bottle of APF Pro. Second place received a $750 prize and a $50 SmartPak gift certificate; third earned $600 in prize money and Flair Equine Nasal Strip; and fourth, a $450 prize. Fifth and sixth finishers received $200 and $100 respectively. All ribbon winners earned coveted Galway Downs swag: wine glasses, beer steins, caps, etc.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Madison Tempkin and Dr. Hart earned a pillar to post victory in the Advanced horse trials.

Madison Tempkin and Dr. Hart. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

            Tamie Smith and Mai Baum Take the CCI3*-S

As predicted, Tamie and Mai Baum’s 21.9 dressage score remained unbeatable, and a new star in her big string, Danito, stayed in second, both having clear cross country rounds. Erin Kellerhouse and Woodford Reserve did the same to stay in the third spot.

“I knew I probably had 10 seconds in hand,” said Tamie of her calm demeanor heading out of on course on the 13-year-old German Sport Horse (Loredano x Ramira, by Rike) owned by Alexandra and Ellen Ahearn and Eric Markell. “He covers the ground really well and I knew if I just kept it smooth, we’d be fine. Actually, with all my horses, when things are going right, if you’re smooth, you’re also fast.”

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

With six horses starting the CCI3*-S, plus Wembley in the 4*, and a full stable of Next Level Eventing students to coach with partner Heather Morris, Tamie had a busy weekend. Gatorade and a regular fitness routine powered her through. “I typically ride 10 horses a day and go to the gym five or six days, so I’m in pretty good shape for this,” she said.

Tamie Smith and Danito. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith and Danito. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Danito, a 10-year-old Hanoverian gelding (Dancier x Wie Musik, by Wolkenstein II) owned by Ruth Bley, has finished on his dressage score almost every outing since Tamie got the ride last July. “He’s greener than Lexus (Mai Baum), but he’s going to give him a run for his money,” Tamie said.

Erin Kellerhouse and Woodford Reserve. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Erin Kellerhouse and Woodford Reserve. Photo by Sherry Stewart. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Erin Kellerhouse was thrilled with this latest chapter in Woodford Reserve’s progress. She’s had the 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Tinaranas Inspector x Laharns Laughton, by Laughton’s Flight) since the end of his 4-year-old year and said “he’s been a pleasure to bring along at every step.” They were clean and well under the time on cross country to stay on their 27.3 dressage score for third.

Tamie and Fleeceworks Royal, a 10-year-old Holsteiner mare (Riverman-ISF x Marisol) owned by Judy McSwain, finished 4th.

Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

CCI3*-S awarded ribbons to 12th, with the top prize of $1,000, $500 and $50 gift certificates from Voltaire Design and Ride On Video; three photographs from Marcus Greene Outdoor Photography; and one bottle of APF Pro. The runner-up received $750 in prize money and a $50 SmartPak gift certificate. Third place received a $600 prize and a Flair Equine Nasal Strip; fourth earned $450; and fifth, $200.  Plus, all were gifted Galway Downs branded goodies.

Meg Pellegrini and RF Eloquence. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

            Meg Pellegrini Makes It a CCI2*-S Victory

Excess excitement led to RF Eloquence not getting through the starting gate until several seconds after the clock started ticking. Yet 15-year-old Meg Pellegrini didn’t get frazzled even with the lead at stake.

“It was important to me that he was confident and happy, so if he hadn’t wanted to get in the box any longer, I would have stopped worrying about the time,” she said. The seasoned campaigner, a 14-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Contender x D-Ginger, by Grundyman xx) owned by Margaret Pellegrini, got right down to business after that and Meg was thrilled with their trip. Even a lost shoe somewhere mid-course went unnoticed by horse or rider until someone retrieved it later.

Photo by Sherry Stewart.

James Alliston earned another red ribbon with Cassio’s Picasso, a 7-year-old Paint Trakehner who is attracting attention for his athletic abilities and his good looks. “He’s moves and jumps really well and has a really nice temperament – all the bits,” along with two foals on the way and growing interest in his breeding services.

Lilly Linder and Tucker Too. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Lilly Linder and Tucker Too stayed in the third spot they’d held after show jumping, and Meg and her longtime partner Ganymede finished in the fourth seed they attained after dressage.

Meg Pellegrini with the Devoucoux team. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

The CCI2*-S awarded ribbons to 12th, with the winner receiving a Devoucoux saddle, plus $1,000 in prize money, a $50 Ride On Video gift certificate, three photographs from Marcus Green Outdoor Photography and one bottle of APF Pro. The runner-up earned a $750 prize and a $50 SmartPak gift certificate. Third received a $600 prize and Flair Equine Nasal Strip; fourth, $450; fifth, $200; and $100 for sixth through eighth finishers. These winners went home with Galway Downs swag, too.

            High Praise for Galway Downs

Just as riders regularly thanked Galway’s all-important volunteers and wished their fellow competitors good luck, exhibitors consistency praised the Galway Downs organizers and the venue itself for staging a high quality event. Whether preparing for the Land Rover Kentucky in April or a graduation from the Beginner Novice ranks, riders echoed comments like those of Canadian CCI4*-S competitor Sabrina Glaser: “They are doing an incredible job!”

Overall entries were up significantly over last year’s event, with Californians competing with top contenders from throughout the Northwest and Arizona. Especially strong turn-outs in the CCI3*-S and CCI2*-S divisions are positive trends for the West Coast eventing scene and signal a strong 2019 for the region.

            The Galway Downs International Horse Trials’ high quality of competition is made possible by generous sponsors. They are:

            Presenting Sponsors: Equine Insurance, Devoucoux, CWD, California Horse Trader and the USEA

            Gold: Sunsprite Warmbloods

            Silver: Temecula Creek Inn, Smartpak

            Bronze & Friend: AHTF-Horse Trials Foundation, Auburn Lab (APF), Geranium, Ride On Video, Voltaire, Symons Ambulance Service, San Dieguito Equine.

            The Preliminary Challenge Up Next

Kellerhouse’s Del Mar Eventing crew now focuses on The Preliminary Challenge Preview, at Galway Downs May 10-12, followed by The Preliminary Challenge and the Woodside Spring Event, set for May 24-26 at the Woodside Horse Park in Northern California. (Entries open April 9.)

The Preview at Galway Downs offers $2,500 in prize money for both the Training and Preliminary divisions, with a Sunday finalé round and brunch honoring Mother’s Day. Two weekends later in Woodside, The Preliminary Challenge offers $15,000 in prize money in both the horse and rider divisions and the final rounds are contested during a reverse-order stadium jumping round in front of a packed house of Saturday Evening Gala guests at the Woodside Horse Park. Both iterations of The Preliminary Challenge draw top pairs to this stepping stone to international level competition.

For more information on the Galway Downs International Horse Trials, visit www.galwaydowns.net. For more information on The Preliminary Challenge and the Woodside Spring Event, visit www.woodsideeventing.com. For media credentials for both, contact press officer Kim F Miller at [email protected] or 949 293 1555.

Amazing photos compliments of Sherry Stewart.

Galway Downs: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Results, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage

Galway CCI4*-S Final Results:

Galway CCI3*-S Final Top 10:

Galway CCI2*-S Final Top 10:

Advanced Results: 

Best of JN: 10 Terrifying Texts Your Trainer Sends You

By on Mar 31, 2019 11:00 am -

The invention of text messaging has definitely made communication a lot easier, but along with that came text-induced anxiety. Every time my trainer’s name pops up on my phone my heart stops for a fraction of a second as my finger slides across the screen. What will this text bring? Good news? Bad news? You never know, but there are a handful of terrifying texts sent by our trainers that can really put a damper in our day. What messages have you been on the receiving end of that have shot chills down your spine?

“See you in ten minutes. Go ahead and take your stirrups off for the day.”

 

“I think we should school the open water today.” 

How I imagine that working out for me…

 

“I’m sending you a new invoice. It’s a little more this month.” 

 

“I think he needs X, Y, and X injected.”

 

“Remember that wall he kept stopping at a few months ago? Yeah, I put that back up in the ring today.” 

I can see into the future…

 

“I feel like you don’t realize that you are doing that, but you definitely are.”

This text is usually accompanied by a video of me failing horribly.

 

“She went outside today and really enjoyed herself…”

 

“Someone forgot the latch the gate!!!”

 

“Just be warned, no one has had any turnout lately…”

 

And the absolute most terrifying text of all…

“So, I have an idea.”

Who knew three little gray dots could be so horrifying?

Go Jumping!

Sunday Video: Multitasking Sir Mark Todd Returns to Racing

By on Mar 31, 2019 9:00 am -

Sir Mark Todd is no stranger to the racing world. After “retiring” from eventing after the Sydney Olympics in 2000, he turned to training racehorses in New Zealand, earning Grade 1 wins including the New Zealand Oaks in 2003 and the Wellington Cup in 2007. Eventing eventually sank its claws into Sir Mark once again and he returned to eventing with great fanfare shortly after the Cup.

Lately he’s been back at it, training the first racehorse he’s had out in 10 years. He’s Eminent (Frankel x You’ll Be Mine, by Kingmambo) had a successful start to his career, but after losing form and subsequently being found to have a fibrillating heart, he was on his way to stud in New Zealand when he passed through Sir Mark’s Wiltshire yard. The horse’s owner, New Zealand Bloodstock principal Sir Peter Vela, has owned several eventing horses with Todd, and thought Eminent might enjoy one last crack at the starting gate. He asked Sir Mark if he’d like to be his trainer.

Never one to shy away from a challenge, Sir Mark said yes. Away they went to Australia to take aim at two Grade 1 races in Sydney: the Ranvet Stakes on March 23 and the Queen Elizabeth Stakes on April 13.

In the Ranvet, the horse finished an impressive second with jockey James McDonald after leading much of the race. He’s the #5 bay with a big blaze and blue silks in this replay video.

Many thanks to reader Annie for the tip. She remarks, “They call him SIR Mark Todd for a reason — because he can be in the money as a racehorse trainer for a group 1 race while doing that whole international eventing thing.”

What a testament to the extraordinary horsemanship of one of our sport’s greats. Go Sir Mark Todd. Go Eventing!

Sunday Links Presented by One K Helmets

By on Mar 31, 2019 12:01 am -

Andrea Baxter and Indy 500. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Galway Downs is a favorite event of mine. Set in the Temecula valley, the venue sets you up for some pretty awesome surroundings — not to mention the herds of hot air balloons you’ll normally see on Saturday and Sunday mornings in the distance. Tune in to cross country day to see it live at this link. Cross country starts at 9 a.m. PST/12 p.m. EST.National Holiday:

Major Events This Weekend:

Galway Downs International H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scoring]

Belton International [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage] [EN’s Twitter] [EN’s Instagram]

U.S. Weekend Action:

Morven Park Spring H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scoring]

Rocking Horse Spring H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scoring]

Full Gallop Farm March II H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scoring]

Texas Rose March H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scoring]

Sunday Links: 

The Dressage World Faces Collective(S) Angst

Mexican Eventing Has To Modernize In A Big Way. What’s Holding Them Back?

A Rider’s Closet: At Home With Jessica Springsteen

Three exciting British entries for Kentucky Three-Day Event

Ian Stark ‘thrilled’ to design his first five-star cross-country course

After A Slew Of Equine Fatalities, What’s Happening At Santa Anita Park?

Through the Lens: 2019 Carolina International CCI and Horse Trials

10 Things You Didn’t Know About the FEH Program

Emilee Libby and Jakobi Overtake CCI4*-S Show Jumping Lead at Galway

By on Mar 30, 2019 10:23 pm -

Galway Downs International CCI4*-S overnight leaders Emilee Libby and Jakobi. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Show jumping day at Galway Downs International saw some leaderboard shuffles, including a new leader in the CCI4*-S division. Here’s a recap of the day’s action with gorgeous photos from Sherry Stewart.

Emilee Libby and Jakobi Overtake CCI4*-S Lead

When dressage leaders Frankie Thieriot Stutes and Chatwin felled a couple mid-course rails, the door swung open for 2nd positioned Emilee Libby and Jakobi to overtake the lead. Emilee and the 10-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding (Ustinov x Expression, by Coriano), owned by the rider and Linda Libby, jumped a clear round with 0.4 time penalties to slide into the top spot.

Emilee says she was happy to have contained Jakobi’s “electric and strong” attitude in the warm-up well enough to log a clear over Marc Donovan’s track. The pair has been honing their show jumping this winter, spending two weeks on the HITS Coachella hunter/jumper circuit earlier this year. Emilee bought Jakobi as a 5-year-old, off of a video sent by a friend of a friend. While powerful and athletic, Jakobi can also be tense and jumpy, Emilee says, but “he’s always been really tuned into what the rider wants him to do.”

Emilee is aiming to go clean and quick over Jay Hambly’s cross country course on Sunday. “He’s great on cross-country. With how he felt today, I’m a little worried about the power,” Emilee admitted. “Maybe I should do some push-ups tonight! Mostly, I’m excited to just gallop and open up his lungs, jump all the jumps and go between the flags.”

Emilee Libby and Jakobi. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith and Wembley, a 16-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Lester x E-VIP, by Cantus) owned by Kevin Baumgardner, turned in a clear round with 1.2 time to shift from 3rd into 2nd.

Tamie Smith and Wembley. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith and Wembley. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

A clear, fast round also paid off for Kentucky-bound Andrea Baxter and Indy 500, her own 14-year-old Thoroughbred mare (Cromwell x Tens of Thousands, by Spend a Buck), who made a big jump from 6th into the top three, having produced the only double-clear round in the CCI4*-S division.

Andrea Baxter and Indy 500. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

CCI4*-S cross country begins at 9 a.m. PT Sunday.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum Are Smooth Sailing in CCI3*-S 

Tamie and Mai Baum, a 13-year-old German Sport Horse (Loredano x Ramira, by Rike) owned by Alexandra and Ellen Ahearn and Eric Markell, remained uncatchable in CCI3*-S show jumping. The pair produced a clear, fast round to remain in the lead on their super dressage score of 21.9.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie kept control of 2nd as well with Danito, a 10-year-old Hanoverian gelding (Dancier x Wie Musik, by Wolkenstein II) owned by Ruth Bley, who also jumped clear with no time.

Tamie Smith and Danito. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith and Danito. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Erin Kellerhouse and Woodford Reserve, her own 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Tinaranas Inspector x Laharns Laughton, by Laughton’s Flight), moved from 4th into 3rd.

Erin Kellerhouse and Woodford Reserve. Photo by Kim Miller.

Erin Kellerhouse and Woodford Reserve. Photo by Kim Miller.

Tamie and Fleeceworks Royal, a 10-year-old Holsteiner mare (Riverman-ISF x Marisol) owned by Judy McSwain, turned in a double-clear round to move from 5th to 4th.

Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tamie Smith and Fleeceworks Royal. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy sit 5th with a clear stadium round for a 32.2 score. Shannon Lilley and Greenfort Carnival and Tamie and En Vogue share the six-spot with a 33. The large 3* division cross country begins at 10:20 a.m. PT Sunday.

Meg Pellegrini and RF Eloquence Keep Hold of CCI2*-S Lead

There would be no shaking Meg Pellegrini and RF Eloquence from their lead in the CCI2*-S. Meg and the 14-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Contender x D-Ginger, by Grundyman xx), owned by Margaret Pellegrini, kept up the rails to head into cross country on their dressage score of 26.8.

Meg Pellegrini & RF Eloquence. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Meg Pellegrini & RF Eloquence. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

James Alliston and Cassio’s Picasso collected just 0.4 time to move from 3rd into 2nd.

James Alliston and Cassio’s Picasso. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

James Alliston and Cassio’s Picasso. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Lilly Linder and Tucker Too had two rails but it only cost them one place, from 2nd to 3rd.

Lilly Linder and Tucker Too. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Lilly Linder and Tucker Too. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

And in 4th is Meg again with Ganymede, who pulled one rail.

Meg Pellegrini and Ganymede. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Madison Tempkin and Dr. Hart Out Front in Advanced

Madison Tempkin and Dr. Hart pulled one rail but maintained their dressage lead in the Advanced Horse Trials division. They’ll head to cross country on a score of 35.0.

Madison Tempkin and Dr. Hart. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Much more to come tomorrow! International, Advanced and Open Intermediate cross country will all be live streamed by Ride On Video. Beginner Novice through Training divisions conclude with show jumping on Sunday.

Galway Downs: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scoring, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage

Galway CCI4*-S Standings After Show Jumping: 

Galway CCI3*-S Top 10 After Show Jumping:

Galway CCI2*-S Top 10 After Show Jumping:

 

Belton, Day Two: Taylor is Untouchable; Comeback King Returns to Main Stage

By on Mar 30, 2019 8:34 pm -

Despite valiant efforts, no one could usurp Monkeying Around’s decisive lead in Belton’s Grantham Cup CCI4*-S today. Piloted by world number 12 Izzy Taylor, he put a 26.2 on the board yesterday morning and, although he’s one of the most inexperienced horses in the field, continues to hold top spot going into the final day of competition. Though this is his first appearance at the four-star level, he showed a maturity which belied his years.

“I was delighted with him; he’s only eight,” says Izzy. “He’s very capable, but it’s a lot in there, and it’s a level up in what he’s got to do. He’s one I’ve had from the beginning, and it’s lovely when they’re yours from the very beginning. It makes a big difference.”

For Izzy, the process of taking a horse through a high-pressure competition like this is much the same, whether she’s sitting on an experienced horse or, in the case of Monkeying Around, a youngster: at the end of the day, it’s about taking one step at a time and adapting to what the horse needs at every juncture.

“He’s got to showjump tomorrow, and we’ll see how he goes and jumps,” she says firmly. “Then — well, he’s a very exciting horse for the future, and today, or tomorrow, or whenever isn’t the be-all and end-all. His future is still the most important thing; he’s still learning, but equally, I’m very driven, and I know him and he knows me. If I’m going around and he suddenly says, ‘I’m not okay with it’, then we go from there.”

Izzy Taylor and Springpower. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

But #BusyIzzy wasn’t sitting on her laurels today – she also brought forward the Badminton-bound Springpower (Power Blade xx x April Imperator), who duly showed that he’s lacking in neither spring nor, as it happens, power. Some cheeky moments pushed them down to a 34.7, which sees them hold 32nd in this incredibly competitive class. But lest you discount her now, remember that Izzy is one of the fastest and most reliable cross-country jockeys on the scene, and this certainly won’t be a competition that ends in the first phase.

“He’s quite naughty and can be cheeky,” says Izzy. “It’s the first outing here – the sun’s out, the warm-up’s manic, and you go in there … it’s irritating, but he’s a very good horse, and hopefully going to Badminton, so very exciting.”

Pippa Funnell and MGH Grafton Street get their Badminton prep underway. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Pippa Funnell stepped into second place overnight with Billy Walk On, one of her Badminton entries and a product of her Billy Stud sport horse operation. He scored a 27.6, rocketing him up the leaderboard and placing him well ahead of his ordinarily competitive stable mate MGH Grafton Street, who scored 33.9 for provisional 27th place.

Harry Meade and Away Cruising follow up their Burghley success with a strong start at Belton. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Harry Meade’s Away Cruising delivered a CCI4*-S personal best of 27.9 to hold third place going into the final session of dressage tomorrow morning. He’s been a reliable circa-30 scorer at this level for a while now, although his career-best performance at Burghley last year saw him score a 29.5 in this phase. Last year, he produced a 30.5 in this class – with his major spring run at Badminton looming, this impressive spike could bode well for his early-season campaign.

Mr Bass impresses for 6th place provisionally. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Laura Collett held second place yesterday after a fantastic test with London 52, and although he slipped a couple of spots into 4th, he was joined in the top ten by stablemate Mr Bass today. Mr Bass, or Chuck, put a 29.9 on the board and sits sixth after having shown much of his typical class today. Between Laura’s two star boys sits Australia’s Bill Levett, riding his former five-star campaigner Shannondale Titan. The Event Rider Masters specialist scored a 29.6, leaving him in fifth place overnight.

Oliver Townend and Kentucky winner Cooley Master Class. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

William Fox-Pitt and Little Fire managed to stay in seventh place after their afternoon test yesterday, while Piggy French and early runner-up Quarrycrest Echo share overnight eighth with Gemma Tattersall and Pamero 4, as well as Oliver Townend and his Kentucky winner (and entrant) Cooley Master Class. Though the latter lost marks for unsolicited lead changes in both counter canters, the quality of the rest of his test allowed him to cling onto a top-ten provisional placing on 30.4. Oliver brings forward his Burghley winner Ballaghmor Class tomorrow, who dazzled us all with a record-equalling 20.8 at Badminton last year – though Oliver is prone to an eleventh-hour withdrawal at this competition, so his looming test shouldn’t cause too much alarm amongst the ranks.

Jenny Caras and Fernhill Fortitude fly the flag for the USA. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Our sole US representative – and currently the only US rider accepted at Badminton – is Jenny Caras, and she and Fernhill Fortitude strode down the centreline today for their UK season debut. Some tension marred their overall score, and the pair move ahead to the showjumping and cross country with a dressage score of 40.1, which sees them sit in 75th place overnight.

Pregnancy isn’t slowing Ros Canter down: she and Allstar B gave an educational and entertaining demonstration in the main arena. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Baby on Board

Spectators were treated to a surprise main arena appearance from World Champion Ros Canter and her WEG mount, Allstar B. Ros, who announced her first pregnancy shortly after her Tryon successes, might be sidelined this spring – but she’s not letting it slow her down. She’s been keeping busy fine-tuning her horses’ flatwork at home, and today, she demonstrated how she schools and warms up her top horses.

“I might do most of this in canter – it’s a little bit more comfortable,” she laughed, gesturing to her burgeoning bump. Ros, who’s due in early summer, then demonstrated a series of breezy flying changes and canter pirouettes because, you know, she’s rather good.

We’ve got a while to wait yet, but here’s something slightly frightening to mull over: we’ve seen an awful lot of riders come back better than ever after their maternity leave. If Ros gets any better, what hope do the rest of us have?!

Flanked by his teammates, Jonty Evans makes a return to his happy hunting ground at Belton. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The Return of the King

Today’s competition was punctuated by a warm welcome back to reigning Grantham Cup champions Jonty Evans and Cooley Rorkes Drift. Their victory in Belton’s feature class last spring felt a fitting and poignant one – it came, after all, on the back of a gruelling fundraising effort to secure the horse, which birthed a nearly-7,000 strong collective, referred to as ‘Art’s Amazing Family’. Then, of course, the partnership’s story took another turn: Jonty fell from Art in Tattersall’s CCI4*-L and spent the next seven weeks in a coma. Since then, he’s defied every single odd that’s been stacked against him – first, he woke up, despite doctors warning his family that he might not. Then, he walked. Soon, he ran. Before too long, he was back aboard his beloved horse, and today, they made their first public appearance together, riding back into Belton’s main arena flanked by former teammates Padraig McCarthy and Austin O’Connor.

Jonty Evans and Cooley Rorkes Drift at Belton. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

After parading around the main arena, Jonty and Art gave the crowd a show, popping a fence before stopping to thank Jonty’s many supporters throughout his ordeal. Those mentioned included Art’s part-owners Jane and Fred Moss, long-time owners Helen and Nick Caton, head girl Jane Felton, handyman and friend Michael Knight, and his family, including mum Maggie, stepfather Arthur, sister Rebecca, and children Mia and Charlie.

Jonty and Art treated their fans to a show, demonstrating their enviable flatwork and popping a fence, too. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

I’m quite confident I speak for all of our noble eventing nation denizens when I say we’re glad to see Jonty back – we look forward to welcoming him into the spotlight for many, many years to come.

Tomorrow brings us an even more ludicrously jam-packed day: we’ll be powering through one last tiny dressage section in the morning, which includes Kitty King and Vendredi Biats and Burghley winners Oliver Townend and Ballaghmor Class, and then we’ll go straight from showjumping into the weekend’s cross-country finale. Stay tuned for an absolutely colossal report and photo gallery tomorrow!

It’s a who’s-who of eventing in the Grantham Cup CCI4*-S – here’s your top ten as we head into tomorrow’s final short session of dressage.

Belton: Website, Ride Times, Live Scores, Live Stream, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

Who Had the Lowest Heart Rate at the Carolina CCI4*-S Finish?

By on Mar 30, 2019 1:00 pm -

Lisa Marie Fergusson and Honor Me were one of four pairs who wore Hylofit heart-rate monitors on the Carolina CCI4*-S cross country course. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Four horses and riders wore Hylofit heart-rate monitors during cross country in the CCI4*-S at the Cloud 11 ~ Gavilan North Carolina International, and their heart rates, distance and speed were shown in real-time on the EQSportsNet live stream.

Carolina marked the first time Hylofit was used during a competition, and Kate Motley, co-founder of the company, said she hopes using the technology at events will become a regular occurrence.

“The more people ride, the more we can aggregate data and start to provide comparative analytics for riders to track course results and understand their own performance as it compares to the larger field,” she said.

Normal resting heart rate for humans is between 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm). For horses, resting heart rate usually ranges between 32 to 36 bpm. Once a horse’s heart rate reaches 175 to 180 bpm, or 80% of his maximum heart rate, his lactic acid levels spike sharply. If you’ve been following along with EN’s articles about training with heart rate, you know lactic acid creates fatigue.

Doug Payne, Clayton Fredericks and Lisa Marie Fergusson all wore Hylofit heart-rate monitors at Carolina. You can watch the footage below.

Let’s take a look at the data at the same points on Ian Stark’s CCI4*-S cross country course — jumping over fence 7C at the influential coffin combination and at fence 21, the last jump.

Doug had two rides in the CCI4*-S and set out first with Quantum Leap, a 7-year-old RPSI gelding (Quite Capitol X Report to Sloopy xx, by Corporate Report xx) he owns with Susan Drillock. Quantum Leap only just stepped up to the Advanced level at Pine Top last month and made his CCI4*-S debut at Carolina, adding 3.2 time penalties to finish 20th.

Doug’s heart rate at the coffin was 161 bpm, with Quantum Leap’s at 196 bpm.

After traveling a further 1 1/2 miles to the finish, Doug and Quantum Leap’s heart rates both rose a further 20 bpm.

Let’s compare that to Doug’s seasoned five-star partner Vandiver, a 14-year-old Trakehner (Windfall II X Visions of Grandeur, by Mystic Replica xx) owned by Debi Crowley. Doug and Vandiver won Carolina last year as the only pair to make the optimum time. With this run serving as the horse’s final prep for the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, these two set out of the start box on a mission.

Since Doug set out with the goal of catching the time, do you think that means we could expect his heart rate to be higher than it was while riding Quantum Leap?

It was! Doug’s heart rate was 168 bpm at the coffin, 7 bpm higher than it was with Quantum Leap. (If you compare the speeds between the two horses, Vandiver also went through the combination at a faster pace.)

At the end of the course, both Doug and Vandiver’s heart rates both rose by about 20 bpm, with Doug’s heart rate at 4 bpm higher than it was with Quantum Leap at the finish. Vandiver finished 4 seconds inside the time for fourth place — mission accomplished and on to Kentucky. (Click here if you missed the Kentucky entry list.)

Next up, let’s look at Lisa Marie Fergusson and her own Honor Me, a 13-year-old Welsh Sport Horse gelding (Brynarian Brenin X Dream Contessa xx, by Royal Chocolate xx) who represented Canada at the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games. These two are well known as a speedy cross country duo and are also aiming for Kentucky, so they set out of the start box to beat the clock.

Honor Me had a higher rate rate at the coffin than Doug’s horses — over 10 bpm higher — but Lisa Marie’s heart rate was just 121 bpm — over 60 bpm lower than Doug’s.

By the end of the course, Tali’s heart rate rose by 11 bpm to be on par with the 220-bpm range we saw with Doug’s horses. But instead of rising 20 bpm like we saw with Doug, Lisa Marie’s heart rate actually dropped a further 3 bpm by the end of the course to just 117 bpm. Lisa finished 5 seconds inside the time for 16th place — talk about being cool under pressure!

Next up, let’s look at Clayton Fredericks and Luksor, a 17-year-old Polish gelding (Efez X Lektura, by Farnik) owned by Lily and Mary Beth Geelan. Luksor stepped up to the Advanced level last year with Lily before she went off to college, and Clayton has had the ride since last fall. The horse averaged 13.6 time penalties in his previous two runs at CCI4*-S level, and Clayton set out of the start box with a steady clear in mind.

Clayton’s heart rate at the coffin was 120 bpm, 1 bpm lower that Lisa Marie at the same point on course. Luksor’s heart rate of 198 bpm was the second lowest of the four horses — just 2 bpm higher than Quantum Leap’s.

Like Lisa Marie, Clayton’s heart rate also dropped throughout the course, falling a further 3 bpm by the final fence to match her at 117 bpm — but keep in mind that Lisa Marie was going for time and Clayton wasn’t. Luksor’s heart rate rose 23 bpm by the end of the course to 221 bpm. Clayton added 3.2 time penalties for 15th place.

Interestingly, while Clayton tied with Lisa Marie for the lowest heart rate at the finish of cross country, his heart rate spiked to nearly 180 bpm in dressage. You can watch his test with Luksor here.

You can watch more of the footage showing the Hylofit heart-rate monitor in action at Carolina on Hylofit’s YouTube Channel. Notice the difference in heart rate across the three disciplines — riders seem to be working much harder in dressage.

If you think studying heart rate is fascinating, you can track your own fitness journey with your horse this season using Hylofit — it’s like Fitbit for your horse and so easy to use. Here’s a full guide on how to get started. Go Eventing.

[Watch More Videos from Carolina International]

Best of HN: What’s the Deal With Bisphosphonates?

By on Mar 30, 2019 11:00 am -

What are bisphosphonates, and why are they suddenly in the headlines? This class of drugs is intended to treat horses with symptoms of navicular syndrome — but off-label use may be doing more harm than good. The racing industry is beginning to fight back against such off-label use. Horse Nation reports. 

Photo by Pixabay/CC.

No single cause has been determined for the rash of fatal breakdowns earlier this year at Santa Anita, in which 22 horses suffered injuries too severe for rehabilitation and were subsequently euthanized. Plenty of speculative theories abound from the track surface to the long-term effects of certain pharmaceuticals; the Stronach Group, which owns Santa Anita, issued a ban on the drug Lasix as well as jockeys’ whips, which has been criticized by some as a knee-jerk reaction to pressure from animal rights groups.

However, a class of drugs intended to treat horses with symptoms of navicular syndrome is making its way into the headlines in the wake of Santa Anita’s breakdowns: bisphosphonates, sold under the brand names Tilden and Osphos, are reportedly being used to help correct certain orthopedic problems in young sales horses. Bisphosphonates also provide some long-term analgesia. But there isn’t enough research yet to know exactly how bisphosphonates affect bone remodeling in race horses in strenuous exericse, and long-term effects are still unknown. There is no hard data for how many horses in the racing industry are treated with bisphosphonates, so there is no way to know for certain if the drug is at least partially responsible for the rash of fatal breakdowns.

How Bisphosphonates Work

Both Tildren and Osphos are approved by the FDA for use in horses four years old and older. Bisphosphonates work by inhibiting osteoclasts, which are cells that clear away woven bone — that’s a temporary bonelike substance that grows to fill in a fracture — so that osteoblasts can lay down better-organized and stronger bone. Inhibiting the osteoclasts and the clearing away of woven bone works to slow conditions such as osteoporosis in humans and navicular syndrome in horses. The analgesic effect is also helpful for horses suffering from pain associated with navicular syndrome.

The drug binds to bone material, and it’s currently unknown how long bisphosphonates remain active in a horse’s system. Current testing abilities can only show whether the drug was administered within the past 28 days.

Side Effects & Off-Label Use

Off-label use of a drug is not actually illegal; the warnings against off-label use that come in drug literature are intended to protect the manufacturer. That means that there is very little data to support any of the claims of benefits from the use of bisphosphonates for any reason other than to treat horses older than four with symptoms of navicular disease — all that exists now is anecdotal evidence. That in and of itself should be taken with a grain of salt, because of the risk of liability: some veterinarians are reporting no adverse affects, while others claim to have seen a massive uptick in catastrophic injuries since the administration of bisphosphonates. Many deny administrating them altogether, but it’s generally believed that their off-label use is widespread, especially in young horses.

Equine orthopedic surgeon Dr. Larry Bramlage of Rood & Riddle warned in 2018 that the use of bisphosphonates could delay healing — he observed many injuries that should have been healed months later just “patched up” with woven bone. Dr. Bramlage reported more recently, however, that he was seeing fewer surgical patients experiencing slow healing since his 2018 presentation.

Reportedly, bisphosphonates can be used to hide evidence of sesamoiditis in weanlings and yearlings in radiographs — which nearly all young horses undergo at sales so that potential buyers can assess any potential problems on the horizon. Sesamoiditis affects not only the sesamoid bones but the attached ligaments. As with other off-label use, there’s no way of knowing how many young horses might be treated with bisphosphonates in order to affect how the lower leg may appear on radiograph, or if the drug is intended to help correct other orthopedic problems.

The lack of hard data makes any discussion of bisphosphonates truly frustrating, but that fact on its own should give one pause — if we don’t know enough about how bisphosphonates work, especially in young horses, then why do we continue to use them in horses who will be in intense training and exertion while racing?

Racing Industry Response

While there is no research-banked link at this time to bisphosphonate use and increased breakdowns, anecdotal evidence certainly raises red flags — enough that the racing industry is responding.

The three largest sales companies in North America — Keeneland Association, Fasig-Tipton and Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company — announced jointly on March 25 that bisphosphonates were banned for off-label use in horses, enabling buyers to request testing of horses under the age of four. If a sale horse tests positive, a buyer has the right to rescind the sale. These sales conditions go into effect on July 1, 2019.

Testing can currently determine if a horse was administered bisphosphonates within the past 28 days, but horses could be receiving the drug months before the sale; research is underway to develop a more long-term test.

The entire Mid-Atlantic region, including regulators, horsemen’s organizations, breeders’ organizations, racetrack operators and veterinarians, came together at the annual Mid-Atlantic Regulatory and Stakeholders on March 21, 2019 and announced immediate prohibition on the use of bisphosphonates on horses under the age of four, until more definitive research on the effects of the drug use on young horses was available. The use of bisphosphonates on horses older than four has been limited only to horses who have been diagnosed with navicular syndrome by a veterinarian.

These bans are supported by Dechra, the pharmaceutical company that produces Osphos. The company has directed more resources recently towards client education to encourage veterinarians to follow the drug’s intended use and directions.

[Bisphosphonates and Navicular Disease in Horses]

[What We Know (And Don’t Know) About Bisphosphonates]

[Bisphosphonates: What We Know About Off-Label Use, And What One Drug Company Is Doing About It]

[Bramlage: ‘Price to Pay’ For Bisphosphonate Use Is Delayed Healing]

[Mid-Atlantic Region Bans Bisphosphonates For Horses Under Four; HBPA Calls For National Ban]

[Sale Companies Ban Off-Label Use of Bisphosphonates]

[Better Bisphosphonate Test and Tighter Controls Coming]

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: Six Marvelous Mares

By on Mar 30, 2019 9:00 am -

In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN each week. We include the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and contact information.

“Ask a Gelding. Tell a Stud. Discuss it with a mare.”

Where geldings might be agreeable, there’s so much to say about the partnership you can build with a mare! When you get them on your side there’s nothing you can’t accomplish. Here’s six of the latest mares listed for sale on Sport Horse Nation (And click here if you missed the geldings we featured last week):

Spellbound. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Spellbound: Athletic, Upper Level Potential

Spellbound is an athletic and sensitive mare with three correct uphill gaits who is bursting with talent for upper level Eventing but could also continue to excel in Dressage or Jumpers. Born in 2010, Spellbound is a 16.3hh impeccably bred Oldenburg –Soprano/A Jungle Prince/Rubinstein. Spellbound had a light start in her early years before she was put into classical dressage training at the age of six with highly accomplished Grand Prix dressage trainer Deborah Dean-Smith. In dressage competition she has received scores into the 70’s with 9’s for her gaits. She is correct and flashy in the arena and will win the Dressage. She is currently schooling second level dressage movements as well as her changes. She was started over fences in the fall of 2018 where she has shown incredible scope, footwork and bravery with all the athleticism for the upper levels. She has cross country schooled multiple times including banks, ditches, water and all types of fences. She is currently in a professional training program. Spellbound is microchipped and has a passport as well has a clean set of X-rays. No history of injury or unsoundness and no vices. Call or text Anna Loschiavo 802-274-6289 for videos and to set up a time to ride Spellbound. Located in Florida.

Shesaruckus. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Shesaruckus

Zoe is an unraced 9 year old TB mare standing 16.2H. She is currently showing Open Novice level but ready to move up to Training Level. She has been a ribbon earner in the Novice division. Zoe is very good mover and brave to the fences. She definitely has the ability to do it all. Located in California.

Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

5 YO 16.1hh Canadian Warmblood mare makes the jumps feel small!

Lovely redhead with flawless barn manners. Completed Novice this weekend at Ocala Winter 2. Has completed 3 Beginner Novices with ribbons in 2. This beauty has a big trot and a super jump with plenty of scope. Bold to the jumps but not hot, easily rateable, with a balanced rhythmic canter, she is confident through ditches, water, drops etc… Fun to ride, she could also show in the Hunters with her changes well in place. Located in Ocala until the end of March.

MiAmore. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

MiAmore, WB/Welsh 14.1 3/4hh pony, 2005

Stunning, brave, winning, barefoot, mare. Events novice, show jumper thru .95, Foxhunts. Always in the ribbons, often gr. champion, a pro.

Rider moving up to a horse. Our beloved Mia is a sweetheart, gorgeous and forward, loves a spa day! Ready for her next rider. Located in Maryland.

Luna. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Winning Novice Horse For Sale

9 year old Black Oldenburg Mare 16 hh. Luna is well schooled on the flat and a lovey mover. She is easy to frame and has her own engine. She has a scopey jump and is bold to the fences.

Won Sporting Days Novice Division with a 23! Some experience at Training Level and scope for more. In Aiken Until April 1and then returns to Ontario.

Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Prelim/ young rider horse **videos NOW working**

Preliminary horse with Young Rider Championship experience and CIC always clear xc. Oldenburg mare 2009 15.31/2hh. Good in all 3 phases, jumps all xc fences, ditches, banks, water, brush. Can take a bad distance and not be upset at all. Great dressage, works to 3rd level dressage. Easy changes has schooled to 3 time changes.
No soundness issues, easy keeper. Could do 1.20 jumpers, possibly more.

Is a little too much horse for her new 11 year old petite rider coming off a 12hh pony but will suit someone bigger who has already started eventing at Novice level or above, as she does have extensive preliminary experience mostly gained by a 16/17 yo. No history of lameness, no injuries, great legs and feet for her negotiable asking price.

Listings included in this article are randomly selected and confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.