Classic Eventing Nation

Thursday News & Notes from Ecogold

By on May 16, 2024 12:01 am -

Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy? Ever since Badminton I’ve been struck with one heck of an eventing hangover, and seeing this share from Laura Collett made me wonder if I was in the midst of one of the far-out lucid dreams I’m plagued with secretly enjoy, which are, apparently, a symptom of being embroiled in the eventing madness that is a 5* weekend. I don’t keep a diary, but I do relay my nocturnal headtrips to an EN buddy and it turns out, I’m pretty normal – well, when I’m firmly planted between the flags with the red on my right, at least.

In other – less weird – news, Hot Bobo’s baby is doing great after a bit of a turbulent start to life. Little Hot Tamale is home and Karl Slezak has assured everyone who’s been following her journey that there are no expected future limitations linked to her premature birth. ‘Molly’ sure looks like hot stuff and we can’t wait to see her galloping in her mom’s footsteps at events one day.

National Day of Note: Today is National Horse Rescue Day – which, really, should be every day. It’s such a privilege to spend our lives with horses, and, although it can be a pretty tough life, with the weight of responsibility, the physical labor, the emotional turmoil they can put you through, the lack of sleep… over and above it all is the power of our connection with these awesome beings and the devotion they give us. If there’s anything you can do to help out one of the excellent horse rescue programs that are working to give all horses what we give ours, please think about that today, and every day, really.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Bouckaert Equestrian H.T. (Fairburn, GA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times]

Fair Hill International Recognized H.T. (Elkton, MD) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Hitching Post Farm H.T. (South Royalton, VT) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Hunt Club Farms H.T. (Berryville, VA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Otter Creek Spring H.T. (Wheeler, WI) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Spokane Sport Horse Spring H.T. (Spokane, WA) [Website] [Entries][Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Spring Gulch H.T. (Highlands Ranch, CO) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

The Vista Spring YEH/NEH Qualifier (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring]

UK International Events

Chatsworth International (FEI Nations Cup) (Derbyshire, UK) [Website] [Entries] [Scoring] [H&C+ Live Stream] [NC 4*-S XC Livestream via FEI YouTube Channel]

European International Events

LONGINES Whitsun Tournament Wiesbaden (Germany) [Website] [Times] [Scoring] [CMH Live Stream]

Thursday News and Reading

Call out for USEA Members and VIP Volunteers to share their best bits If you’re one of those very, very good guys who help to keep our sport running, head on over to this IG post and share what roles you love and why for the chance to be featured in a USEA article.

It’s not your trainer’s job to… We get it, trainers are a huge part of our lives, but do we sometimes assume their job description includes more than it actually does? Here’s what trainers have to say about that. Guilty? Well now you know.

Today’s tearjerker is one of those bittersweet tales that it’s nice to enjoy over a cup of something comforting. Appropriate for Horse Rescue Day, this is the story of a foster-based rescue in Pittsburgh. Obviously, fostering means that horses will come and go from the center, and although it’s great that they’re moving on to forever homes, there are people who will miss them once they’re gone. Blogger Sarah K. Susa recounts a childhood memory as she explains how she prepares the kids who’ve fallen in love with foster horses for saying goodbye.

Before I’d even met a horse in real life, I was a horse girl. I spent as much time as I could enveloped in horses, only I could hold my barn in my hands, as I devoured every single horse book I could find. One series in particular was The Silver Brumby – my fascination for wild horses was born between those pages. And so, when I came across this article about a program that works to rehome wild brumbies , it piqued my interest. There are sad truths about some of the methods used to manage the wild herds, but overall this piece is about the people who are working towards positive alternatives and their celebration of these versatile equines.

Sponsor Corner

Did you spot Ecogold’s saddle pads at the USEA Intercollegiate Championships? University of Kentucky Eventing Team looked stunning in their custom Ecogold pads! The Ecogold Breeze collection can be customized to match your team’s colors.

Video Break

Not every horse who goes to Badminton is one of the big guys… Enter the Shetland Pony Grand National , which is both fun and serious in equal measure. Honestly, you may be giggling at the spectacle of itty bitty ponies, their lil legs going like the clappers as they gallop over teeny fences, but many of the young riders move on from these pint-sized rides to have exciting equestrian careers. And the whole thing is in aid of charity – this year the Bob Champion Cancer Trust.


Recipients Announced for MARS Bromont Rising U25 Grant Program 2024

By on May 15, 2024 1:36 pm -

2023 MARS Bromont Rising Grant Recipient Maya Clarkson with Maks Mojo C
on the cross-country course at Bromont June, 2023. © Michelle Dunn Photo

The MARS Bromont Rising U25 scholarship program, administered by the USEA Foundation, is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s grant funding for riders aiming to compete in the MARS Bromont CCI (Quebec, Canada) taking place June 5-9, 2024. Each will receive $2,500 toward their travel and competition costs, and participate in an extensive educational component during the event.

The brainchild of Bromont organizer Sue Ockendon and the late Steve Blauner; the scholarship program was first offered in 2019 for riders competing at Bromont and at the time Ocala, and was expanded to include Galway Downs in 2022 and 2023.

Highlighting this year’s program is the return of three-time German Olympic team member Bettina Hoy, as a guest coach for 2024. Hoy will be coaching athletes on dressage days as well as providing course walks for cross-country and show jumping.

Program director, Olympian and FEI 5* Eventing judge, Peter Gray also acts as a clinician at each event, including his “centreline sessions” on how to make the most of your warm-up and exactly what the judges are looking for movement by movement.

On release of the names Gray commented: “We were overwhelmed with the quality of this year’s applicants and are very excited for an amazing week of training and lecture presentations at the beautiful facility at Bromont. For many of the successful recipients this will be their first FEI competition and first time competing outside of the US; it should be a memorable week! Thank you to Dr. Mark Hart, Carol Kozlowski and Diane Pitts for joining me on the review committee to select this year’s recipients.”

U25 rider Olivia Dutton of West Grove, PA, and Sea of Clouds are among the MARS Bromont Rising grant recipients
for the MARS Bromont CCI, June 5-9 2024. © Michelle Dunn Photo

The recipients for 2024 are:

  • Ivie Cullen-Dean, Newnan, GA, with Fernhill Cardevega
  • Olivia Dutton, West Grove, PA, with Sea of Clouds
  • Julia Fanello, Ocala, FL, with FE Quickly
  • Erin Farrell, Tallahassee, FL, with Ataviuos
  • Colin Gaffney, Lexington, KY, with Baymax
  • Jenna Levesque, Cochranville, PA, with Born Ready
  • Megan Loughnane, Unionville, PA, with Lynton
  • Rylie Nelson, Unionville, PA, with Galloway Sunrise
  • Nicole Reynolds, Coldwater, ON, with Don’t Ask
  • Annabelle Sprague, South Royalton, VT, with DaVinci Code
  • Claire Strehlow, Lexington, KY, with Seabanks Theygo

For more information on the MARS Bromont Rising program visit www.bromontcci.com.

Unsung Heroes: Spotlighting the Longtime Volunteer Crew at Virginia Horse Center

By on May 15, 2024 12:00 pm -

Eventing truly wouldn’t be possible without all the amazing volunteers who ensure the shows run smoothly for us riders. They volunteer because they love our sport and the horses. Today, we’re highlighting a few volunteers at the Virginia Horse Center! Want to sign up to help out during the VHC’s May Event next weekend (May 23-26)? There are still plenty of openings to sign up for, which you can view here.

Diane and Art as fence judges at the World Equestrian Games at Tryon in 2018. Photo courtesy of Diane and Art Bird.

Diane and Art Bird have been volunteering at the Virginia Horse Center for over 25 years. They now live and volunteer in Aiken, but continue to travel back to the center a few times a year to pitch in for certain events.

They trail ride and take care of their four horses now, but both have been involved with horses for most of their lives. “We don’t event,” Art says, “but we’re eventing groupies,” Diane says.

Most of the time, Diane works the start box on cross country, and Art can be found scoring in the office or as a fence judge on cross country. “We do whatever anybody needs when we go to volunteer at an event,” Art says.

Diane loves working the start box, trying to keep riders calm before they go out on cross country. “I really love eventers; they’re really nice people and they treat their horses well,” she says.
Diane and Art have been married for 50 years and volunteering has been a major part of their lives together. “It’s been good for both of us. It’s fun because we both get up really early in the morning and we both get home really late– we’re both really tired, so we’re in it together,” Diane says.

Dennis doing his thing at the Virginia Horse Center. Photo courtesy of Dennis Bussey

Dennis Bussey moved to Lexington, VA two years ago, discovered the Virginia Horse Center and became a frequent spectator at their events. He leads the James River Hikers group and already enjoys outdoor activities, so adding horse shows to his calendar was nothing but fitting.

“The Virginia Horse Center, to me, is a magical wonderland because almost every weekend there is some kind of an event that has to do with horses,” Dennis says.

While Dennis was asking the office staff about the following week’s events, they mentioned that they needed volunteers for an eventing show that weekend. “I thought to myself, you can promise that nobody wants Dennis Bussey to be a volunteer– and anything having to do with judging horses because I don’t know anything about it,” he says.

After being promised that he would receive training and could practice using the walkie talkie before going out to be a fence judge on cross country, Dennis decided to volunteer. “I went out and it was a real hoot to do this thing!”

Dennis was a fence judge at an event, and one horse stood out to him, so he pulled out his phone to take a video. He later learned that the rider he got on video was the one and only Phillip Dutton. After telling some of his friends that he had recorded an Olympian, he recruited them to volunteer at the Virginia Horse Center as well.

Dennis not only loves watching the horse and rider pairs on cross country, but he also has a passion for getting to know them. He frequents the stables at the Virginia Horse Center and enjoys asking people about their horses.

“These people that have horses and come here to participate in all these things – they love their horses,” Dennis says.

Dennis getting to know one of the horses stabled at the Virginia Horse Center. Photo courtesy of Dennis Bussey.
Dennis getting to know one of the horses stabled at the Virginia Horse Center. Photo courtesy of Dennis Bussey.

Dennis, Diane, and Art are just a few volunteers out of the many that make this sport go round. They understand how much goes into volunteering and how important it is to have volunteers at these events.

“If there weren’t volunteers, they couldn’t do it,” Diane says. “We love investing our time because we really like the people and beautiful horses. It’s just amazing what the horses will do for us.”

Diane and Art love the welcoming community that volunteering has provided them and says that everyone should volunteer at least once. “I think some people are a little bit afraid that they don’t know enough, but they’ll be trained at the briefings and the experienced volunteers will help them,” Diane says.

Not to mention, if you are a rider, you can learn a lot from volunteering– watching (and hearing what judges have to say if you volunteer as a dressage scribe) is one of the best ways to learn!

“I would encourage people to come and try it. I think they’ll like it,” Diane says.

Next time you’re at an event, don’t forget to thank the volunteers; we could not do this without them! Better yet, volunteer at an event yourself– you never know what you might learn!

If you would like to volunteer at the Virginia Horse Center Eventing May Recognized HT, click here.

Between the Ears with Karen Bowersox

By on May 15, 2024 9:30 am -

These days, we often view each other’s lives through the lens of a highlight reel, glimpsing the incredible trips, impressive jumps, and moments we’re proud enough to share on social media. What we don’t often discuss is the immense pressure this places on athletes on both ends of the news feed.

Riders, whether professional or not, feel compelled to post content that portrays them as cool and successful. As consumers of this content, we are left with a distorted perception that the sport is easy and that failure might suggest one isn’t cut out for it. These interviews are part of my mission to shed light on the reality of the challenges faced by everyone, regardless of their level, at some point in their journey.

In this edition of Between the Ears, we’re shaking things up a bit and delving into the story of Karen Bowersox from the Major League Eventing Podcast. The podcast spotlights individuals in the industry, aiming to bring the sport of eventing into the limelight.

Karen co-hosted the podcast with her husband, Rob, until his sudden passing in November of 2022. Since then, Karen has admirably kept Rob’s dream alive, producing the show with her son, Robby. Through love and loss, there’s always much to learn about resilience and perseverance. So, let’s journey between the ears…

To read more Between the Ears interviews, click here.

Q: Can you tell us about your journey into eventing and how Major League Eventing started?

A: My journey into eventing began with humble roots in the hunter world. From a young age, I was immersed in the equestrian scene, starting with my first pony that I got at age 7 and eventually transitioning into Arabian competitions under the guise of my parents. I wanted to do eventing so bad, but my parents thought the discipline was dangerous and wouldn’t let me try it while I was still under their roof. Life took its twists and turns -— I got married at a young age, and Rob served in the Marines, so we moved around a lot. It wasn’t until later, after settling back on the East coast, that I found my way back to horses and got to start eventing. Both of our sons started riding as well, and when our son Joe started working for Boyd Martin we saw how the sport needed better opportunities for prize money and sponsorship. My husband Rob and I saw the potential to elevate eventing to new heights, and thus, the podcast was born.

Q: Losing a partner is undoubtedly a challenge. How did you find the strength to continue the work you and Rob started together?

A: Losing Rob was incredibly difficult, both personally and professionally. He was the driving force behind Major League Eventing, and stepping into his shoes felt daunting. But amidst the grief, I discovered his goals, both personal and professional, outlined on his phone. It was a poignant reminder of his vision and the importance of carrying it forward. The support from fellow riders and fans of the show also fueled my determination. With the help of my son and our community, we found the strength to persevere. Every time we finish recording an episode I am so glad that we’re still doing it.

Q: How did the eventing community support you during this challenging time?

A: The outpouring of support from the eventing community was immense. From heartfelt messages to food arriving at the house, we felt surrounded by love and compassion. For his service, instead of sending flowers, we asked for donations to be sent to Fair Hill’s From Green to Gold program and they received so much money that they were able to create Major League Eventing jumps among other improvements to the venue in Rob’s name. The eventing community rallied around us, offering not only condolences but also practical assistance. It reaffirmed my belief in the tight-knit nature of our community and the power of solidarity in times of need.

Q: You’ve shared some of your personal fitness journey with the Major League Eventing community. Can you share more about your journey back to fitness after experiencing grief?

A: The past year saw me grappling with grief and its physical toll. I found myself in a rut, neglecting my health and well-being. I know Rob wouldn’t have wanted that for me and I didn’t like what I was doing. It was a realization that spurred me into action. With the support of friends and the guidance of a trainer and nutritionist, I embarked on a fitness journey. From gym sessions to rediscovering the joy of running, I reclaimed control over my physical and mental health. It’s been a transformative process, reminding me of the mind-body connection and the importance of self-care. I don’t even really like running, but I feel so much better after it. I needed to do it and I’m glad that I did.

Q: What lessons have you learned about resilience and overcoming adversity through this experience?

A: Through grief, I’ve learned that resilience isn’t about overcoming adversity but rather learning to live alongside it. Each day presents its challenges, but with resilience comes the capacity to navigate them. I’ve learned that one minute I’m completely fine, and another it feels like I’ve been struck by lightning. My fitness journey has fit into this as well because, on a bad day, I look around and find that my time should be spent playing with my dogs or going to the gym and it cascades into feeling better, sleeping better, and having better overall mental and physical health. Embracing the journey one day at a time has been critical.

Q: Any advice for others experiencing grief and loss, particularly within the equestrian community?

A: Grief is a deeply personal journey, but no one has to navigate it alone. Seek solace in the support of loved ones and cherish the moments of connection within the equestrian community. Take each day as it comes, allowing yourself the grace to grieve and heal in your own time. Remember, true friends and family will stand by you through it all, offering a beacon of light in the darkest of times.

Q: What goals are you currently pursuing to honor Rob’s memory and further the mission of Major League Eventing?

A: Rob had ambitious goals for Major League Eventing, including expanding the MLE Fit Club into a clothing line catering to equestrian athletes. His dream was to have a line of clothing that could seamlessly navigate from the gym to the barn, and I’m looking into different ways to make this a reality. While navigating grief, I’m committed to exploring avenues to bring his vision to fruition and honoring his memory.

As a community, we’re immensely grateful for Karen’s dedication to continuing Rob’s work and embodying the sentiment that life isn’t about what happens to you — it’s about how you respond to it.

Wednesday News & Notes

By on May 15, 2024 12:01 am -

I’m always left feeling kinda lost after a 5* ends. I’ve been so immersed in everything eventing that when I surface, real life doesn’t seem well, real.

And so I take to the Gram to relive it all from new perspectives, looking for the stories of eventing which are such a huge part of our sport. Like the horse and rider who came last, last year and returned to become champions; the rookie combination – an ‘amateur’ one-horse rider who found herself on the 5* podium; the inspirational comeback of one very determined young woman; the long-awaited completion that had eluded the daughter of a former Badminton champion for four years; and the former farrier who’s waited an awful long while to stand on the 5* podium, and sailed his way up 50 places to do just that.

And of course, the news that William Fox-Pitt is in fact making good on his teasing, and retiring from top level competition. Clare Balding had tears in her eyes as she rounded off the BBC broadcast following his interview confirming the news, and she wasn’t the only one. The eventing legend has been part of the sport ever since the very first event I watched – he was a young up-and-comer then. Thanks for making me feel so old, William!

Badminton’s never just about the podium, or the top-10, or even the top-20. Each competitor has their own story, their own motivation for reaching for the stars, and working their butts off just to have the chance to walk through that arch and say that they’ve been to Badminton. There’s the stories of disappointment that don’t for one second detract from the pride they have for their horse; the rider who’s become a mom since her last trip to the big one (and hopes her mare will be joining her in the mommy club one day); the veteran “horse of a lifetime” who made his whole team’s dream come true; and the fireman who made the save of the day, but still got wet for a second year running.

And then there’s Boyd Martin, who has now completed all seven of the world’s 5*s, ticking the final box and securing his Badminton completion thanks to Thomas.

One thing’s for sure, all of the awesome ponies who’ve given us eventing fans an epic weekend of sport deserve all the pats.

What a wonderful celebration of our sport we’ve witnessed. What a sport.

There was another very welcome sight this week, Tom McEwen shared an update on his Olympic gold and silver medal winner Toledo de Kerser (above), who sustained an injury at Burghley last season. He’s back in the tack and enjoying a walk in the spring sunshine.

Whatever stories you’re writing with your horses this week, enjoy, and go eventing!

U.S. Weekend Preview

Bouckaert Equestrian H.T. (Fairburn, GA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times]

Fair Hill International Recognized H.T. (Elkton, MD) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Hitching Post Farm H.T. (South Royalton, VT) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Hunt Club Farms H.T. (Berryville, VA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Otter Creek Spring H.T. (Wheeler, WI) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Spokane Sport Horse Spring H.T. (Spokane, WA) [Website] [Entries][Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Spring Gulch H.T. (Highlands Ranch, CO) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

The Vista Spring YEH/NEH Qualifier (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring]

UK International Events

Chatsworth International (FEI Nations Cup) (Derbyshire, UK) [Website] [Entries] [Scoring] [Live Stream]

European International Events

LONGINES Whitsun Tournament Wiesbaden (Germany) [Website] [Times] [Scoring] [Live Stream]

Wednesday News and Reading

What do an osteopath, a policing graduate and a horse with no name have in common? A place on the Badminton podium, that’s what. The big class wasn’t the only thing happening on the Badminton estate last week. The BE100 Grassroots Championship is surely on the bucket list of all wanna-be eventers, myself included – if they ever decide to run a 30cm version. Read the stories of the lucky ones whose Badminton dreams came true at grassroots.

There were a number of Badminton entries who showed up against the young guns and proved that age is just a number. I’m always super impressed by the veteran eventers who come out looking fabulous and are a true testament to the work the team put into them at home, and on the road, and the careful management that goes into keeping them at the top of their game. From routine care to nutrition and fitness, read up on the specific needs of the older equine in this informative article.

It’s one thing preparing your horse for a show and then delivering the goods once you’re there – but shipping horses and having them in unfamiliar circumstances can throw up sticky situations. From ensuring that biosecurity measures are sound in terms of the trailer your horse is traveling in, to managing unforeseen changes in diet and behavior, get clued up and prepared for whatever comes your way with this advice from two sport horse veterinarians.

Keeping your horse in your backyard brings a whole new set of horse girl quirks. Having my guy at home is for sure the long-term dream, but for now he’s boarded with my trainer who’s reasonably patient with my paranoia and constant messages wondering if my buddy’s got enough hay to keep him happy. This list of 10 things backyard barn people don’t want you to know is kind of why I haven’t taken the step to bringing my baby home. (Although, to be fair, the bra thing is optional even if you do board your horse IMO, as long as it’s cold enough for a couple of layers, which, in North Wales, it always is. Comfort first, ladies.)

Video Break

And finally, a bit of fun. Can you tell a mare from a gelding just by looking at their face? In three seconds? Test your skills with @evangrooms:

Training Tip Tuesday: Improving Your Stretch Circle

By on May 14, 2024 5:47 pm -

Amelia Newcomb is back with a video that will be useful for eventers, too! The stretch circle is a big part of some upper level tests, sure, but the concept behind it is applicable to any level. In this video, Amelia will show you more about this exercise and what the dressage judges will be seeking.

From Amelia:

In this video, we will be talking about the stretch circle with Nicole, a licensed EC Dressage judge. The stretch circle can be a difficult movement, as it is a test of your connection with your horse from the hind leg through the back and to the mouth. It also is a great test of relaxation, suppleness, and balance! This movement is seen both in the Training and First Level tests and Nicole will be talking us through the requirements for each and giving me a score as I demonstrate incorrect vs. correct stretch circles.

What makes a good stretch circle? As we’re working on the stretch circle it’s important to focus on:

· Contact/Roundness – Before you even ask your horse to stretch down, you want your horse to be round and accepting the contact. Then, you can feed your reins out slowly, inch by inch. Don’t throw your reins away! This will eliminate your connection, and as Nicole explains, the connection in the stretch circle has a lot to do with how the judge scores the movement.
· Rider Position – The stretch circle is all about balance and connection, and in order for your horse to stay balanced and connected, you need to be balanced! Therefore, it is important to focus on sitting back to keep your ear, shoulder, hip, heel alignment. When you tip forward, you will drive your horse onto the forehand, and you will be more likely to lose your connection.

Remember, the stretch circle is a hard movement for both horse and rider! As Nicole explains, we want our horses to stretch down past the point of their shoulder. However, at first, it can be helpful to just work on stretching down slowly. At first, your horse may only be able to stretch down a few inches! If that is all you can do at first while maintaining the connection, that is okay! As you practice, focus on getting your horse round before the stretch, then feeding your reins out little by little for the stretch, and keeping a correct rider position during the stretch while maintaining the connection. You will get there!

I hope these tips help you and your horse! Make sure you watch the video where Nicole is judging my stretch circles and I go into more detail on how you can improve your stretch circle!

To learn more from Amelia, visit her YouTube channel here.

Always Learning with #Supergroom Kate Servais

By on May 14, 2024 12:00 pm -

We love celebrating and learning about the #supergrooms who make this sport go around — quite literally! — so we’re on a mission to interview as many grooms as we can to learn about their journeys. Catch up on the other interviews from this series here and nominate a #supergroom of your own by emailing [email protected]! Today, we get to hear from Kate Servais.

This series is supported by Achieve Equine.

Kate Servais gives Jaguar Duende some love. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Kate Servais grew up wanting to be surrounded by animals. As a kid, she took some pony lessons, but as she got into other sports, horses went to the back burner. Think of any sport– Kate played it, at least a little!

Upon getting to high school, Kate started experiencing pain throughout her legs and joints. When multiple specialists couldn’t find an answer, she decided the best thing to do was to stop participating in running sports. So, she picked back up with riding lessons. She became a working student at Flatlands Equestrian Center, doing a little bit of everything from grooming to riding to photography. 

“The more absorbed I got into the sport, I wanted to do this full time, I wanted this to be my life,” she says. After riding with Sharon White in a few clinics and lessons, Kate inquired about becoming a working student for her and the rest is history.

After almost two years as a working student for Sharon, Kate took the position of head groom. “That progression was definitely a learning curve,” she described.

Even though mistakes have been made along the way, Kate says that experiencing it and learning from her mistakes has been helpful in the transition to head groom. “That’s all part of learning, as long as you understand what you did, accept it, and oftentimes apologizing to the people affected.”

#supergrooms: also part-time videographers. Photo by Sally Spickard.

She said that the USEA Groom’s Group Education Night at Carolina International this year was helpful in learning from grooms who’ve had more experience under their belts. “It was really helpful to have people sit down and talk to all the people who are starting out as grooms or want to become grooms and give some guidance,” she says.

Kate’s words when describing her experience working with Sharon for the past two years are nothing but positive ones. “You constantly learn so much. It’s such a wonderful environment and I’m surrounded by so many fantastic people.”

Although she is early on in her equine career, Kate has some tips and fundamental things to think about in regards to grooming:

 

  • Always have sugar in your pocket. 

 

“It’s an essential to me as a groom.”

 

  • Always be grateful. 

 

“There are some definite lows and some definite highs, but always be grateful for where you’re at and that you get to be in the sport and be surrounded by these animals because they’re just so wonderful.”

 

  • Always be thoughtful

 

“Be thoughtful to each and every horse; all horses are different, so pay attention to every single horse you put your hands on. As horses move up the levels, pay attention to what helps them have a good day and what may have fed into a bad day.”

 

  • Write everything down.

 

“Any changes in feed, any changes in exercise that may have happened, write it down! Write it down with the dates so you have it and you know.”

Kate has not only been handling the responsibilities of Sharon’s head groom, but she’s also been competing herself. She’s been leasing Life Story, aka Basil since this past December and has been gaining valuable experience from him.

Balancing grooming tasks and tending to her own horse is no easy feat. “It’s mental, in the way that if you’ve had a show all day, or you have to leave for a show in an hour but you still have to do your horse, you have to put your stress aside and focus on your horse. He’s a very sensitive horse, so if you have any semblance of a hurry or stress, he will know and he will project that.”

Kate and Rachel Dunning celebrate Sharon White’s clear cross country at Kentucky with Claus 63. Photo by JJ Sillman.

This year, Kate got to experience grooming at her first CCI5* event, the Kentucky Three-Day Event with Sharon and Claus 63.  “I’m was ecstatic for that– I’ve only been to Kentucky once and it was as a spectator. It was incredible to be able to see the behind-the-scenes and to learn from the people around me.” But, the weekend didn’t come without its share of anticipatory nerves: “This was basically my first Long format, ever, with her! So I was pretty nervous about what to expect.”

If you’re considering becoming a groom, take this advice from Kate: “Definitely weigh your options. It’s not for everyone, it’s very intense; you have to really love the sport and the horses and be 100% all in. And it’s okay if you’re not, it’s okay if it’s not the right option for you, it’s not going to make you any less of a horse rider.”

Go Kate and Go Eventing.

Her Love of Thoroughbreds Runs Deep: Kendahl Holden Launches ABW Sporthorses in Honor of Avery Whisman

By on May 14, 2024 9:30 am -

Kendahl and her first event horse and OTTB, Levitate. Photo courtesy of JJ Sillman.

Kendahl Holden’s love for Thoroughbreds started at a young age and it only continued to grow as she flourished in the eventing world with her first event horse and Thoroughbred, Levitate.

Avery Whisman came from a family of horse people and he was riding a horse by the age of two. From riding in the eventing world to becoming a jockey, he always also cultivated a deep love for Thoroughbreds.

Avery and his horse Stonewall Jackson had been partners since Avery was around 13 years old. They went up the levels together. The pair competed at the FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC), formerly known as the North American Junior and Young Riders Championships (NAJYRC) in 2017.

“Avery had multiple event horses that were Thoroughbreds in his career, but Jackson was the most special to him,” Kendahl says. Jackson is now happily retired in Versailles, KY with Avery’s parents.

As Avery moved from eventing to racing, he became an apprentice jockey, and later began his professional career. Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith mentored Avery as he was starting his career. “From there, he never missed. He was so good at what he did,” Kendahl says.

Avery as a jockey at Del Mar Racetrack in California. Photo courtesy of Del Mar Racetrack.

In his racing career, Avery rode 810 horses through the starting gate, totaled 90 wins, and earned over $2.7 million.

On January 11, 2023, Avery passed away at the age of 23.

Kendahl, his fiancée, has been preserving his legacy since, launching ABW Sporthorses in January of this year. “We always wanted to start a business together and this is most definitely an honor to him,” she says.

Kendahl focuses on restarting Thoroughbreds — whether they’ve only been race trained or have had an entire racing career. Since Avery loved Thoroughbreds over other breeds, she wanted to honor him and focus on Thoroughbreds specifically.

“He is by far the most talented horseman I’ve ever met in my life. He had such a way with them that always captivated me. I could never understand how someone could be so deeply connected to an animal,” Kendahl says.

One of the horses that Avery raced was Stay Out, or as he called her, Mi Amor. “Out of all the horses that he sat on, she was one of his favorites. He loved her and would always send me videos and pictures of her,” Kendahl says.

At Avery’s tribute race in February 2023 at Laurel Park, Kendahl was able to get in contact with the owner of Mi Amor and paid the horse a visit. “I did a little kissy sound and I said ‘Mi Amor!’ and she perked her head up and she came over. Instantly, she put her head in my chest and closed her eyes. I have never in my life had such a quick and powerful connection with a horse before.”

Avery always told Kendahl he would love to bring Mi Amor home when it came time for her to retire from the track. So, she wanted to do just that. After a month-long process, she was able to follow through on Avery’s plan, buying Mi Amor and bringing her home.

Avery and Mi Amor. Photo courtesy of Jodi Murphy.

Kendahl’s mom came up with Mi Amor’s barn name: Mia for short. They knew that Mi Amor would be her competition name, but it was missing something. “I really wanted to honor Avery here and she is Avery’s love, so why don’t I put his initials in front of it and tell everyone that she’s ABW’s love? And that was the birth of the prefix ABW.”

Kendahl will have each client sign a contract in order to keep the ABW prefix tacked on each horse’s name. “It’s respect to him and it’s respect to the business. I can follow the horses and it shares his legacy.”

This was the start of ABW Sporthorses.

Kendahl’s love and passion for Thoroughbreds is evident in her training practices. She takes her time restarting them, understanding that they deserve a grace period after they get off the track. They deserve to be just a horse before learning an entirely new way of life.

“They’re just so intelligent; they’re level-headed. They have sense to them and they have heart like no other. The Thoroughbreds are just incredible; I love everything about them.”

Although she specializes in eventing, Kendahl recognizes that some horses that go through her program will end up in another discipline. “My main goal is to keep them happy inside their homes, and if that means it’s in another discipline, then that is fine with me.”

So far, connecting with the horses but not getting too attached has been a bit difficult for Kendahl. ABW Anath came to her at three years old just after she ran her last race. Kendahl knew she wanted to take as much time as needed to build a connection with her.

“I understand that having a quick turnaround is more financially responsible, but at the same time, I think that when we put in the time and effort into something, people gravitate toward that. I enjoy the process more than anything, so I’m happy to say that ABW Anath and I have definitely connected,” she says.

Good things take time, and Kendahl has been and will continue to channel this approach in her training with all the ABW Sporthorses.

Kendahl and Mi Amor. Photo courtesy of Mady Hsue with Tid Bits Media.

“You can’t expect them to listen to you and communicate with you if they don’t trust you. I want all my horses that come through my program to learn how to trust me,” she says.

Kendahl originally planned to become a nurse, but after Avery’s passing, she decided to not pursue that path. She turned to what has always kept her going: horses. “They’ve saved my life in the past when I’ve gone through tragedy and hard times. They keep me motivated and they make my heart full.”

Although ABW Sporthorses is still a fairly new business, Kendahl’s passion for her program and the meaning behind it shines through. For her, seeing the small wins and small progress each day keeps her going.

“You can never stop learning and I think that’s my favorite part about this business so far. Everyday I’m learning something new, whether it be about my horses, people, this business, or this community,” she says.

The support that Kendahl has received already from potential clients and her community keeps fueling her passion for the industry. This year, she plans to get the ABW Sporthorses name out there and build some clientele. Long-term, Kendahl hopes to see ABW Sporthorses all around the country.

“I want to be able to go on the USEA Horse Search, look up ABW, see all of the horses competing, and feel Avery’s legacy.”

Kendahl and Avery. Photo courtesy of JJ Sillman.

Continuing to keep Avery’s legacy alive motivates Kendahl to continue to develop her business. The main reason for ABW Sporthorses is Avery and he will continue to be the driving force behind it.

“To see his initials in front of horses that he loves, that he was passionate about, to see them grow in this community and this sport that we love, it’s vital.”

Kendahl cherishes her memories of being in the winner’s circle with Avery as well as celebrating his wins at eventing competitions. “He’s just the best horseman I’ll ever know and I strive to be even half the horseman he was.”

Tuesday News & Notes from Kentucky Performance Products

By on May 14, 2024 12:01 am -

If there’s one thing to take from the sport of eventing, it’s the camaraderie. I know, we say it all the time, but that’s because it’s incredibly true. I had a conversation with a friend in the show jumping industry not too long ago, and I was amazed listening to her talk about how many riders won’t seek help from other professionals for a variety of reasons. While I am sure that there are many exceptions to this, I’m repeatedly blown away by the support even the top riders in the world of eventing show to each other.

Case in point, this post from Bec Braitling, who threw a leg over several of Tamie Smith’s horses this weekend at Galway Downs while Tamie was away competing at Tryon International. Bec also credited Tamie immensely for her help with Caravaggio leading up to his 5* debut at Kentucky last month.

It’s a part of the eventing world that never fails to warm my heart and makes me ever so grateful to be a part of it.

Events Opening This Week

Inavale Farm HT (OR); Summer Coconino H.T. I (AZ), Bouckaert Equestrian H.T. and Area III Eventing Championships (GA), Full Moon Farm’s Aloha HT (MD), Larkin Hill H.T. (NY)

Events Closing Today

Equestrians’ Institute H.T. (WA); IEA Horse Trials (IN); The Spring Event at Archer (WY); Essex H.T. (NJ); MCTA H.T. at Shawan Downs (MD); GMHA June H.T. (VT); Ocala Summer H.T. I (FL); Poplar Place June H.T. (GA); Genesee Valley Riding & Driving Club Spring H.T. (NY); Carriage House Farm Combined Test (MN)

Tuesday News & Reading

Some horses just need their own, perfectly matched person to bring out their best. That was the case for Devon MHF, the subject of the latest “On Course” from the USEA. It’s a story about trusting the process and the budding relationship with a horse, and how those efforts can truly pay off. Read more here.

With Intercollegiate Championships in the rearview, it’s time to revisit some of the stories from an exciting weekend at Stable View. Auburn University’s Hayden Wathen and Contestor showed their chops that weekend, beating out the pros in their Intermediate division. The Chronicle of the Horse caught up with Hayden here.

Biometric research is gaining momentum in the racing industry — could it be much longer before we see a heavier public emphasis on this in our sport, too? The AAEP Racing Committee is looking to use their sensors on some 60 racing 2-year-olds to further their research surrounding the identification of injury risk. I see plenty of parallels to our sport and hope we see some of these projects branching further into sporthorses, too.

Banks on cross country can be a tricky thing to learn, especially considering you can’t exactly build a replica in your arena. Luckily, Phillip Dutton has plenty of experience with this, and he’s teamed up with Practical Horseman for some useful advice on the topic. Read it here.

Sponsor Corner

Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Despite it all, Caroline Powell and her gutsy, game mare beat the odds to win the Mars Badminton 5*. It’s so rare that our first place podium spot is filled by someone outside the top five, but Caroline took the lead from sixth place. Catch up on all the action that you might have missed in this report sponsored by Kentucky Performance Products.

Video Break

Grab a quick tip from Olympic rider Andrew Hoy all about maximizing your success at water questions:

Video Break: Farrier Abby Bunyard Breaks Glass Ceilings

By on May 13, 2024 1:00 pm -

You know we love a good girl power story here at EN! In this newest video from the FEI’s RIDE series, presented by Longines, we get to meet farrier Abby Bunyard who knew from the tender age of 6 that shoeing horses was her dream career.

But even with knowing from such a young age what she wanted to be when she grew up, she still had to overcome some immerse hurdles in order to break into the male-dominated industry. Hear from Abby how one mentor risked “career suicide” by hiring her and how she’s since made her way to the verge of being named the first female president of the British Farrier and Blacksmiths Association. Plus, she’s got some great advice for girls trying to enter an industry where they feel unwelcomed.