Classic Eventing Nation

Horse & Human Nutrition: Feeding 5* Horses with Sharon White

By on Jun 17, 2025 3:00 pm -

This article is brought to you with support from Sentinel Horse Feed.

“A happy horse is a beautiful thing to be around.” – Sharon White

Sharon White, Sentinel-supported rider, and Claus 63. Photo by Sally Spickard.

With a barn full of beautiful horses, it’s clear that, as a five-star event rider, Sharon knows a thing or two about keeping her horses happy and healthy. Her feeding regimen is the key to her success, which was crafted with assistance from experts at Sentinel Horse Feed.

“I’m not a feed expert in any way, shape or form, but I am an expert horseman,” Sharon said. “Horses will always tell you what’s going on with their feed if you pay attention to how they eat, if they leave anything, their poo, their coat condition, the shine, the look in their eye, their way of going. It all really matters.”

Creating a feeding regimen based on the horse’s needs naturally results in a program tailored to each specific horse. You won’t find a one-size-fits-all solution in Sharon’s feed room.

“Each horse is an individual,” Sharon said. “I think each breed is very unique and specific. You have to know the breed you’re dealing with. A Warmblood is different from a Thoroughbred, and very different from a pony. An older horse is much different from a younger horse. All of these things really matter.”

If you’re not sure how to tailor your program to your individual horse, Sharon’s answer is simple: ask your horse. “It’s hugely important to pay attention to what your horses are telling you,” she said. “They’re very earnest creatures.”

Sharon White and Jaguars Duende. Photo by Shannon Brinkman

Sharon asks herself a few questions when it comes to feeding horses:

  1. Is your horse too hot? Are you feeding the horse too much?
  2. If your horse is too lazy, are you not feeding them enough?
  3. How old is your horse, and are they still growing?
  4. What is your horse’s body condition? Do they need weight, and/or are you working to put muscle on?

On a day-to-day basis, Sharon ensures that her horses have forage available at all times. For those horses that tend to be more like a vacuum than a horse and hoover down all their forage as fast as possible, she uses slow-feed hay nets to keep them from eating too quickly. Alfalfa cubes and dust-free hay are always on-hand as an additional option.

“My horses tend to be in a lot of work, so I make sure they have enough energy from their hard food,” Sharon said. “This is where Sentinel is really useful for me, because I don’t tend to feed a lot of hard food. I use the Sentinel Performance LS, which is an amazing low-starch grain, because they really glow and perform on it without feeding too much. For additional support, the nutritionists at Sentinel organize a top dress for me called Sentinel Care Topline 30, so I know that they’re getting the vitamins and minerals they need.”

While Sharon tries to avoid overfeeding too much grain, when needed. “For my horses that are harder keepers that do need more grain, I break it into many feedings – I’ll feed up to four times a day,” she said. And when needed, Sentinel’s Care Gastric Support feed can come in clutch for additional support of her horses’ digestive systems.

To keep her competition horses who are easy keepers happy while their barn mates are chowing down, her solution is probably already in your fridge: carrots. “I’m a believer in carrots,” Sharon said. “I’m a believer in a handful of carrots to keep them happy when everyone else is eating in the barn. You don’t want to stress a horse out by feeding everybody else but not them, right? And so a carrot can go a long way to keeping them mentally happy.”

A big believer in the ideals of the forage-first philosophy of feeding horses, with grass and hay making up the majority of her horses’ diets, Sharon says her horses’ must have forage available throughout each day.

Sharon White and Arden Augustus. Photo by Sally Spickard.

“To me, grass and hay is hugely important,” Sharon said. “I think that horses need to have forage in front of them all the time.”

If you’ve been lucky enough to attend an event at the Kentucky Horse Park, then you’ve driven through those fields of bluegrass that give the state its nickname. While many might assume that those lush fields are perfect for raising competition horses, Sharon disagrees. She believes that overly rich hay and grass can do your horse a disservice.

“I want dust-free hay, but it doesn’t need to be the most amazingly green, beautiful alfalfa-looking thing I have ever seen, because then you have to really be careful with the amount you feed,” Sharon said. “And I think that horses need to have forage in front of them all the time. They’re meant to graze all day long. So I would prefer that they have that ability. It helps with all sorts of gut issues and everything else. I think alfalfa is rocket fuel! So it has its purpose, for sure. I do feed alfalfa cubes to some of my hard feeders. I soak them very well. I think that is a useful thing to do, if they like it. It also helps buffer the stomach.”

Sharon understands that, like humans, horses also deserve some ‘me time.’ At her barn, her horses know that their time out grazing in their pastures is their own. “My horses tend to be out all night and inside during the day, because that way they know their time alone is when they’re out and no one’s gonna bother them,” Sharon said. “And I think that’s important. During the day, I can monitor how they’re eating and whatnot, and what things affect them.”

Of course, with a full schedule of competitions from spring to late fall, Sharon’s horses don’t always have an exact regular schedule. Like any elite athlete, the horses at Last Frontier Farm need many more calories during competition season than over the winter.

“Their workload matters a lot as to the amount of grain I would feed them,” Sharon said. “In competition season, if my horses have a day off, they get half food. They do not get their full meals, they get half of their meals because they’re not actually burning the energy that they would in work.”

Sharon White and Claus 63. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The biggest changes for her horses come in the off season, when even some of their supplements are reduced or stopped altogether. “They’ll get breakfast and dinner, but they won’t get three meals a day,” Sharon said. “We’ll cut way back on the amount. I supplement during the competition season– like my electrolytes. Most of my competition horses would come off of all supplements in the off season, to give everything a break.”

There are many different feeding philosophies floating up and down barn aisles all over the country– low starch versus high calorie, never feed grain versus some horses need grain, feed alfalfa versus stay far away from alfalfa. Navigating the chaos of information surrounding the right way to feed your horse can be confusing, to say the least. Sharon says that for anyone who’s having a hard time figuring out what’s best for their horse, listen to what your horse is telling you.

“Knowledge is power, but information can be deadly, right?” Sharon said. “So, if you are looking at the information and not the horse, you’re doing yourself a disservice. So you have to look at the horse or pony, and pay attention to the animal, the creature or the living thing, not the information that says this is what you must do.”

As for herself, Sharon tries to listen to her own body the same way she would listen to her horses. “I would think of it exactly the same as I do my horses, right? If you actually pay attention to what you eat, your body will tell you, ‘Oh, that works for me,’ or ‘Oh, that does not work for me.’ I happen to love salmon, and I know the things that my body actually loves because I feel better after I eat them.”

While she has to be conscious of her health, particularly when she’s on-the-go at horse shows where healthy options are few and far between, throughout her career Sharon has learned that not eating at all has more negative consequences than eating something she normally wouldn’t consider healthy.

Sharon White and Jaguars Duende. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

“What I am personally just learning is the fact that not eating has just as many negative effects for me as eating the wrong thing, right?” Sharon said. “I don’t like breakfast, I get busy. I forget to eat. And then by three or four o’clock in the afternoon, wow, I am not doing anything well. And I don’t realize it’s just because my body is like, ‘Okay. And now we’re just in shutdown mode.’”

“I try to be nicer to myself, and then just realize, like you’re either gonna feel good or you’re gonna feel bad, right?” Sharon continued. “If you don’t eat, you’re gonna feel bad. I try not to eat processed foods, but you know what a peanut butter cracker goes a long way. It comes in a package, so it’s processed, but it puts me in a better mood, so it’s going to be okay. That is better than not eating and then becoming just an absolute crazy person.”

At the end of the day, Sharon’s advice is to try your best to eat healthy, listen to your body about what it needs, but don’t overthink it – which, she admits, is easier said than done. “I have to be careful of turning everything I put in my mouth into this big project, because I tend to do that with all things,” she laughed. “I’m going to be aware of everything, I’m going to think about everything, I’m going to try and do the right thing. And sometimes, that is just trying too hard and actually, just eating is all you got to do, right?”

The same concept applies to Sharon’s horses, which are always the priority so that they can perform to the best of their abilities for her. Listening to each horse, calling in professional assistance to craft the right program, and never being afraid to make changes based on current needs helps set Sharon’s program up for success from the ground up – starting with nutrition.

Love this article? Be sure to check out our interview with Sentinel’s Equine Product Manager Kristyn Sturken on The Go Eventing Podcast here, and read more horse & human nutrition tips from another Sentinel-supported rider, Ema Klugman, here. To learn more about Sentinel Horse Feed, visit feedsentinel.com/performance.

Wire-to-Wire for Tommy Greengard in Aspen Farms CCI4*-S

By on Jun 17, 2025 1:00 pm -

The Pacific Northwest could not have delivered more beautiful conditions for a final day of competition at Aspen Farms Horse Trials and CCI4*-S in Yelm, WA. Sunny weather, temperatures in the low 70s with a light breeze, spectacular views of Mt. Rainier to the East, and excellent footing on the grass-covered cross-country track through the woods and undulating hills of Aspen Farms 240 acres.

Tommy Greengard Leads CCI4*-S Start to Finish

Tommy Greengard and Joshuay MBF. Photo by Ashley Kemp Photography.

Tommy Greengard and his 2014 Dutch Warmblood gelding, Joshuay MBF (pictured above, with Mt. Rainier in the background) from California delivered consistently all three phases of competition, leading the CCI4*-S from start to finish on their dressage score of 26.9.

“I’m so proud of him!” Greengard shared shortly after crossing the cross-country finish line. “That’s his first run at the Advanced level since 2023. He’s the most amazing horse. I’ve loved him since we got him as a 5 year old. He has always delivered, and he has always taken care of me.”

Next up Greengard and Joshuay are aiming for the CCI4*-L at Rebecca Farms. 

Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14. Photo by Ashley Kemp Photography.

Hot on the heels of the winners in the CCI4*-S in every phase were last year’s winners and this year’s second place finishers: Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14, owned by Annika Asling. They added just 2.4 time faults on the cross-country course designed by Morgan Rowsell to finish second on 30.4.

“The course felt really good,” said O’Neal after cross-country. “The footing was very good, as usual here. It was really nice to not have rain! Everything rode the way it walked; my plan worked. I could have maybe turned a little sooner in a few spots to make up that little bit of time. But overall, it rode great. I’m so grateful to Clooney’s owner, Annika Asling, for helping me and letting me have the ride–he’s an amazing horse. My whole team is so great.”

The highlight of the show experience for O’Neal was getting to deliver a double clear show jumping round in the Tack Room Too Arena on Saturday night with a packed crowd enjoying the Evening Spectator Reception, with drinks and hors d’oeuvres sponsored by Southern California Equestrian Sports (SCES).

“It’s so fun to have the crowd and hear the cheering,” she said. “I feed off of it! I love the energy and the comradery. It’s great to get more people watching, so they can see what we can do. I loved the atmosphere.”

O’Neal and Clooney are heading to a jumper show later this month, and then will focus on fitness to prepare for the CCI4*-L at Rebecca Farms in July.

Rounding out the CCI4*-S were the two Canadian riders: Renee Kalkman and her Thoroughbred gelding Flame Eternal and Cristina Rennie and her Westphalian gelding Flight of the Arabesque, finishing third and fourth respectively. Both delivered clear and inside-the-time cross-country rounds.

“This was an amazing show!” shared Rennie. “Aspen Farms was my first US competition back in 2019, and I always tell people THIS is the place to go to! So so beautiful. The course was inviting, real, and made me feel ready. Thank you to everyone involved with Aspen Farms Horse Trials for your fine details and love. As a Canadian, it is so great to have this close to home!”

 Aspen Farms CCI4*-S: A Qualifier for US Equestrian Open of Eventing Series

Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z. Photo by Ashley Kemp Photography.

This was only the second year that Aspen Farms has hosted an CCI4*-S division–the only of its kind in Washignton State. This year the CCI4*-S also served as a qualifier for the US Equestrian Open of Eventing Series which awards top ranking riders prize money at the end of the Series.

“I think it’s a great program that the USEF has put together,” said Aspen Farms Show Organizer Jonathan Elliott. “It’s nice to make a grouping of the 4* organizers and competitions, and hopefully allow the West Coast competitors to gain points in the Series. I also think it’s a great promotion leading up to the LA Olympics in 2028.”

Thanks to their results in the CCI4*-S at Aspen Farms, Tommy Greengard of California has moved into the Top 10 on the Series Leaderboard (tied 9th overall). Karen O’Neal of Washington is now 13th. Both Canadian competitors from British Columbia, Renee Kalkman and Cristina Rennie, have entered the running on the Leaderboard too.

The Series will culminate in a $200,000 CCI4*-L final at Morven Park International & Fall Horse Trials, October 9-12, 2025.

Greengard Also Tops the Leaderboard in the CCI3*-S

Tommy Greengard piloted Balladeer Kilbrickens Lad, winners of the CCI3*-S at Aspen Farms. Photo by Ashley Kemp Photography.

In the CCI3*-S, Tommy Greengard piloted Balladeer Kilbrickens Lad, a 10-year-old Irish Sporthorse gelding owned by Patricia Culleton, to their first FEI win. They finished on their dressage score of 26, one of only two pairs to jump clean and inside the time, along with Alessandra Allen-Shinn and Bankseigh, owned by Jordan Raska, who finished eleventh overall.

“He was so brilliant!” said Greengard. “He doesn’t have the strongest cross-country history. I’ve only had the ride on him for a year. He’s gone from Training level to winning at the 3* in under a year. None of us ever thought that he would be a 3* horse, and now he’s a winning 3* horse! But more importantly, he finds the job really enjoyable. He’s happy doing it, so we couldn’t be happier.”

 Sophia Click and Tarantino 54 also delivered a convincing cross-country performance in the CCI3*-S, adding just 3.2 time faults to move from seventh after show jumping to second. Stephanie Goodman and her mare Elwenda DP were consistent throughout all three phases and finished third in the field of 14 starters.

 Hanni Sreenan Wins the CCI2*-S

Hanni Sreenan and Ebenholtz, winners of the CCI2*-S. Photo by Ashley Kemp Photography.

In the CCI2*-S, Hanni Sreenan of Hood River, OR and Ebenholtz, a 2007 Hanoverian gelding owned by Amy Haugen, led the division from start to finish.

Despite how fast, fun, and easy (her own words) the cross-country course rode for Sreenan, the highlight of the show for her was their dressage test on Friday, which produced a personal best dressage score for the pair of 25.5.

“I’ve been really working on getting him to brighten up his step and getting him a little fancier in the flatwork,” she said. “He really improved on the flat at this show. The score was great to see!”

Their next show will be the Intermediate division at Inavale Horse Trials in Oregon.

Paige Beauchamp Crandon and Fyfin Ramiro, a 2016 Irish Sporthorse mare owned by Melissa Beauchamp, finished second in the CCI2*-S. Anni Grandia-Dodson and Mistral, a 2016 German Sporthorse gelding, finished third.

16 Horse Trial Divisions Offered at Aspen Farms

Tommy Greengard and MBF Google, winners of Open Preliminary at Aspen Farms Horse Trials. Photo by Ashley Kemp Photography.

In addition to the FEI divisions, Aspen Farms Horse Trials hosted 16 horse trials divisions from Beginner Novice through Intermediate levels, attracting riders from throughout the Pacific Northwest United States Eventing Association Area VII and beyond. Thanks to generous show sponsors, over $30,000 worth of prizes was awarded to top finishers on Sunday.

In Open Intermediate, Tommy Greengard claimed another win; this time with That’s Me Z, a 2017 chestnut Zangersheide gelding owned by Andrea Pfeiffer. Despite moving from first to third after one rail in show jumping on Saturday, their fast cross-country ride on Sunday moved them back to the top of the Leaderboard ahead of Mickayla Howard and HH Ontario in second, and Emily Pestl-Dimmitt and Aventinus, owned by Louise LaRue, in third.

“This was his first run back since the 4* short at Kentucky,” Greengard said after cross-country. “We were just hoping he would be happy and confident, and he smoked around the course!”

Greengard also secured the top three spots in the Open Preliminary division:

  1. MBF Google, Score 24.0
  2. EL Porvenir Luigi, owned by Andrea Pfeiffer, Score 26.3
  3. Cooley Sligo, owned by Megan Beachler, Score 28.7

“We couldn’t be happier with all the horses,” said Greengard after his wins. “I feel so privileged to ride this group of horses. And also, credit to Andrea Pfeiffer… Andrea is behind everything. She helps me with the horses every single day; day-in and day-out. It’s a dream we both share, and it wouldn’t be possible without her.”

As for why he and his Chocolate Horse Farm team make the trip from California to Aspen Farms in Yelm, WA, Greengard shares: “We love competing here. The tracks are so well presented. We find it really technically challenging. The courses are up to standard. They do a great job putting on the show.”

Elizabeth Bohling and Monbeg Heatwave, winners of Preliminary Rider. Photo by Ashley Kemp Photography.

In Preliminary Rider, clean jumping efforts propelled Elizabeth Bohling and Monbeg Heatwave from fourth after dressage up to first in the division on a score of 37.4. Megan Robinson and Daisy placed second on 38.2, and Caterina Ritson and Tiz Franklin placed third on 38.4.

All four of the Training Level Divisions required sub-30 score performances to make the Leaderboard:

  • Jr. Training: Winners Lorelei Frederickson and Kremer VD Falieberg, Score 25.3
  • Training Amateur: Winners Lorilee Hanson and Mosaïque, Score 24.4
  • Open Training: Winners Stephanie Goodman and Cord Johnson, Score 22.8
  • Training Horse: Winners Jayne Fife and Chaplain, Score 24.4

The lowest finishing score of the weekend was 21.4, earned by Dorothy Voute and her 7-year-old Connemara gelding, Tycooly Fletcher, in Novice Amateur. They and other Amateur / Rider division winners will have their sights set on The Arion Challenge, which awards a custom Arion saddle to an Amateur rider who can win their Amateur / Rider division at both the June and September Aspen Farms Horse Trials.

In Open Novice, Michelle Grimmer won with her 13-year-old Thoroughbred mare, In Private, whom she bought off the track for $1,000 as a 5-year-old.

“The best part of the show for me was being able to ride her forward and let go of her,” said Grimmer, while picking up her many prizes from the Show Office. “The courses are always evolving at Aspen Farms. I’ve ridden Novice level here a million times on different horses over the years. This was by-far the best course I’ve ridden here. There were technical questions–lots of choices you could make to make up time, or to take more time. It gave the horses a good glimpse at the next level and invited forward riding. I loved it!”

Please join us a competitor, spectator, sponsor, or volunteer September 12-14, 2025 for Aspen Farms Horse Trials and USEA Area VII Championships in Yelm, WA. Visit our website, aspenfarmseventing.com for more information.

Aspen Farm H.T. (WA): [Website] [Scores]

Yellow Card Issued at Luhmühlen CCI5*

By on Jun 17, 2025 11:30 am -

Lea Siegl and DSP Fighting Line. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

One FEI Yellow Warning Card was issued at Longines Luhmühlen in Germany this past weekend. Austrian Olympian Lea Siegl was handed down the penalty for “Abuse of Horse – Excessive use of whip, bit and/or spurs (Eventing Rules Art. 526).” The card was issued after Lea’s cross country ride aboard DSP Fighting Line; the combination went on to finish fifth overall in the CCI5* division. No further information on the penalty has been issued.

FEI Yellow Warning Cards can be issued by the President of the Ground Jury, the Chief Steward or the Technical Delegate during the Period of Jurisdiction for the following offenses:

  • Abuse of Horse
  • Incorrect Behaviour by the Person Responsible and/or Incorrect Behaviour by a member of their entourage. For the purpose of this article, the term “entourage” shall mean the Person Responsible’s parent, spouse or partner, family
    member, coach, trainer, groom, crew or other person directly connected with the Person Responsible and includes the owner(s) of the Person Responsible’s Horse.
  • Non-compliance with applicable Sport Rules
  • Non-compliance with Protective Headgear Rules

This is Lea’s only recorded warning or yellow card, according to the list of sanctions that’s maintained by the FEI. A second offense within one year of the issuance of the first results in a two-month suspension.

How EN reports on warnings, cards, and other sanctions: EN reports on sanctions handed down after CCI5* events and major championships (Olympics, World Championships, etc.). The current list of FEI yellow cards and recorded warnings can be found here. 

22 Riders Receive Rebecca Farm Travel Grants

By on Jun 17, 2025 9:00 am -

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

As riders across the country prepare to make the journey to Kalispell, MT for The Event at Rebecca Farm, held July 16-20, many will do so with critical financial support thanks to the Rebecca Farm Travel Grants. Administered by the USEA Foundation and made possible by the generosity of the Broussard Family Charitable Foundation Trust, these grants have long played a vital role in helping up-and-coming riders compete at one of North America’s premier eventing destinations.

In total, $59,000 in grant funds were awarded this year, with all eligible applicants receiving funding. The travel grants are available to riders of any age competing at the CCI3 or CCI4 level** who have not yet represented the United States at a senior championship such as the Olympics, World Championships, or Pan American Games.

The 2025 grants reflect an expanded commitment to the program, with earlier announcements confirming a doubling of the grant amounts to better offset the rising cost of travel. This year, recipients in the CCI4* divisions will receive approximately $2 per mile traveled, while CCI3* competitors will receive $1 per mile.

Since the inception of the travel grant program in 2011, over $200,000 has been distributed to promising athletes striving toward future international representation.

2025 Rebecca Farm Travel Grant Recipients

CCI3*

  • Anni Grandia-Dodson
  • Meg Pellegrini
  • Claire Robinson
  • Lauren Salgueiro
  • Kaylawna Smith-Cook
  • Megan Sykes
  • Harper Click
  • Marc Grandia
  • Mason Reidy
  • Ali Kuhn

CCI4*

  • Alex Conrad
  • Tommy Greengard
  • Allison Springer
  • Briggs Surratt
  • Chris Talley
  • Skyeler Voss
  • Madeline Backus
  • Rebecca Brown
  • Jack Curtis
  • Kristi Foresman
  • Erin Grandia
  • Lizzie Hoff

With continued support from the Broussard Family Charitable Foundation Trust, the Rebecca Farm Travel Grants remain a powerful example of investing in the future of U.S. eventing by helping talented riders reach their goals on one of the sport’s most inspiring stages.

Learn more about the USEA Foundation and its work supporting educational, safety, inclusion and equine welfare initiatives here.

Tuesday News & Notes from Kentucky Performance Products

By on Jun 17, 2025 12:01 am -

What’s that we spied this weekend? Only one #supergroom and one of her best pals out for a spin at the Horse Park of New Jersey! Steph Simpson, longtime groom and manager-of-all-things for Boyd Martin had the special opportunity to take the Turner family’s Tsetserleg out for a spin in the Open Novice. A few time penalties kept them from collecting the blue ribbon, but the experience was worth it all. Don’t miss a full story on the experience coming your way soon here on EN!

U.S. Events Opening Entries Today

Hoosier H.T. (IN); Revel Run H.T. II (MI); River Glen Summer H.T. (TN); Catalpa Corner Charity H.T. (IA); Bayou Gulch H.T. (CO); Olney Farm H.T. (MD)

U.S. Events Closing Entries Today

Stone Gate Farm Mini Trial (OH); Summer Coconino H.T. (AZ); Bouckaert Equestrian H.T. (GA); Mile High H.T. (CO)

News & Reading

Hot weather = hydration check! Riders are at higher risk for dehydration thanks to sweat-inducing show attire and the physical demands of riding. Even mild dehydration can impact your strength, focus, and recovery. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty — start your day hydrated, sip water throughout, and consider adding electrolytes during long or hot rides. Bonus: fruits, salty snacks, and cool drinks can help you stay ahead of the heat. You can find more hydration tips to keep you cool here.

Big news from WEC Ocala: Dover Saddlery will open a two-story flagship store in 2026 as part of the new luxury retail expansion, The Shoppes Off 80th. The store will offer fittings and a full range of apparel, tack, and horse care products. This marks Dover’s 38th location and coincides with the brand’s 50th anniversary. Get more info on this new offering here.

Lucy Katan, founder of the British Grooms Association and International Grooms Association, has been awarded an MBE for her outstanding contributions to the equestrian industry. Her work has been pivotal in improving employment rights, wellbeing, and recognition for grooms—both in the UK and internationally. Read more about this honor and about the International Grooms Association here.

Thinking about buying your next horse? The latest USEA Podcast features coach Ruthie Meyer sharing practical tips on everything from spotting red flags to setting realistic goals. Whether you’re moving up or seeking a lower-level partner, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in here.

🧴 Sponsor Corner: Beat the Itch + Stay Hydrated with Kentucky Performance Products 🌞

Bugs are back — and so is sweet itch season. Also known as summer seasonal recurrent dermatitis (SSRD), sweet itch is caused by an allergic reaction to the saliva of Culicoides midges (aka “no-see-ums”), and if your horse has ever experienced it, you know how uncomfortable and destructive it can be. [Find a helpful infographic on this topic here]

These pesky insects are active from April through October, so early prevention is key. Think: fly sheets with hoods and tail flaps, fans to improve air circulation, avoiding turnout during peak midge hours (dawn and dusk), and insect repellents. Even daily applications of baby oil or Skin So Soft can help deter midges with an oily barrier they don’t like.

When it comes to supporting your horse through summer stress — including hot temps and travel, in addition to itchy skin — it’s also vital to maintain hydration and proper electrolyte balance. That’s where Summer Games® Electrolyte from Kentucky Performance Products comes in.

Originally formulated for the 1996 Olympics, Summer Games replenishes electrolytes and trace minerals in the actual ratios found in horse sweat — no sugar-laden fillers, just research-backed performance support. It’s concentrated, affordable, and adjustable based on your horse’s needs.

Because itchy, uncomfortable, and dehydrated are not a winning summer combo. The horse that matters to you matters to us® — visit KPPusa.com or call 859-873-2974 for personalized supplement advice.

Video Break

You heard it here (well, below) first: the U.S. is on the rise:

Weekend Winners: Aspen Farm, Shepherd Ranch, New Jersey, Seneca, Silverwood, Golden Spike, & Full Gallop

By on Jun 16, 2025 12:30 pm -

Despite some rainy weather, Eventers made the most of this past weekend! We’re here to celebrate all of these accomplishments with our Weekend Winners as we kick off this new week.

Congrats to all teams! We love shouting out our Weekend Winners, as well as giving an extra shout out to the winner of our Unofficial Low Score Award: Lindsay Wagner and Silver Lining, who scored a 19.1 in the Beginner Novice Open 2 division at Golden Spike!

Aspen Farm H.T. (WA): [Website][Scoring]

CCI 4*S: Tommy Greengard and Joshuay MBF (26.9)
CCI 3*S: Tommy Greengard and Balladeer Kilbrickens Lad (26.0)
CCI 2*S: Hanni Sreenan and Ebenholtz (26.3)
Open Intermediate: Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z (35.4)
Open Preliminary: Tommy Greengard and MBF Google (24.0)
Preliminary Rider: Elizabeth Bohling and Monbeg Heatwave (37.4)
Junior Training: Lorelei Frederickson and Kremer VD Falieberg (25.3)
Training Amateur: Lorilee Hanson and Mosaïque (24.4)
Open Training: Stephanie Goodman and Cord Johnson (22.8)
Training Horse: Jayne Fife and Chaplain (24.4)
Junior Novice: Ryan Young and Miss. Presley (32.2)
Novice Rider: Lisa Peecook and SZ Raudo (26.8)
Novice Amateur: Dorothy Voute and Tycooly Fletcher (21.4)
Open Novice: Michelle Grimmer and In Private (27.2)
Novice Horse: Karen O’Neal and Pendleton GB (28.0)
Junior Beginner Novice: Elizabeth Perez and Cool Hand Luke (34.4)
Beginner Novice Rider: Susan Harrel and ODonnells Riverdancer (27.4)
Beginner Novice Amateur: Annie Desmond and Little Elf (26.2)
Beginner Novice Horse: Marc Grandia and Checkter Too (22.7)

Shepherd Ranch Pony Club H.T. I (CA): [Website][Scoring]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Addison Craig and OT Bandini (39.2)
Open Preliminary: Elsie Patterson and Finnigan R-E (41.7)
Preliminary Rider: Payton Piearcy and Geronimo (30.3)
Preliminary/Training: Kaylawna Smith-Cook and Calling Cooley (31.6)
Open Training A: Amber Birtcil and Prince of Oolde (29.2)
Open Training B: Jessica DiCostanzo and Willis (35.7)
Training Rider: Jen Boulden and Ava de La Luna (31.9)
Training/Novice: Fielding Neale and Nadeche (26.8)
Jr Novice Rider: Laine Rethmeier and Carter (29.7)
Novice Rider A: Tayler Ravenscroft and Moonlites Ranger (33.6)
Novice Rider B: Cricket Wood and Latitudefortytwo (35.6)
Open Novice: Kate Miller and Solide (28.6)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Kari Scoggins and Swagger Jagger (31.9)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Dede McCoy and Dune DeHeir (28.5)
Jr Beginner Novice Rider: Genevieve Hedges and Everyday’s A Holiday (30.3)
Open Beginner Novice A: Katherine Robinson and Party Favor (30.6)
Open Beginner Novice B: Michlynn Sterling and ESI Harvard (26.8)
Jr Starter: Rowan Thomas and Even More Impressive (29.7)
Starter A: Fallon Haig and Nevada (33.0)
Starter B: Danielle McKinley and Gift With Purchase (22.3)
Open Grasshopper: Hana Samac and Doja Cat (26.6)
Open Introductory: Suz Roehl and Hold Me Close (26.0)

Horse Park of New Jersey H.T. I (NJ): [Website][Scoring]

Advanced: Phillip Dutton and Possante (41.5)
Open Intermediate A: Isabelle Bosley and Conner (37.9)
Open Intermediate B: Isabelle Bosley and Paper Doll (28.9)
Open Preliminary A: Rylie Nelson and Galloway Sunrise (36.7)
Open Preliminary B: Ryan Wood and Cooley Maestro (39.4)
Open Modified A: Fylicia Barr and Heigh Ho Hero (33.4)
Open Modified B: Reese Dellangelo and Carlson 119 (28.5)
Open Modified C: Matthew Lewis and Quaden AF (36.7)
Open Training A: Boyd Martin and Lamorlaye (27.6)
Open Training B: Bradley Champagne and Excel Etoile Zulu 1 (26.9)
Training Rider A: Madi Simpson and Fernhill Chaos (32.4)
Training Rider B: Darci Burton and VS Correlli Surprise (34.2)
Novice Rider A: Ashley Thorp and Dassett Olympus (26.7)
Novice Rider B: Valentine Jie and Hillowan Bob (34.8)
Open Novice: Lisa Skala and Forthcommons Cool Boy (27.1)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Laura Poveromo and Belmont (32.8)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Brielle Rainsberg and Riley (31.2)
Open Beginner Novice: Morghan Lake and EZ Louis (24.1)
Starter: Rachel Barmore and Mr Ninja (36.4)

Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T. (MD): [Website][Scoring]

Open Intermediate: Meghan O’Donoghue and Global Eros (48.2)
Open Preliminary: Ashley Horowitz and Monbeg Salt Fever (35.6)
Preliminary Rider: Victoria Miller and Contessa (44.2)
Open Modified 1: Morgan Connelly and FireFly (32.8)
Open Modified 2: Isabella Beaumont and Cara’s Huntsman (42.8)
Modified Rider: Morgan Kelly and Baraboo MVH Z (38.3)
Training Rider: Emma Whitaker and HSH Golden Boy (34.1)
Training Horse: Kimmy Cecere and Conquistador XC Z (28.3)
Open Training: Morgan McGrath and Could’ve Ben and Jerrys (30.4)
Open Novice: Kendyl Tracy and Diabolo (30.8)
Novice Rider: Olivia Hickman and Rocktop Dreamer (30.3)
Novice Rider Junior: Lillian Harrod and Celtic Heritage (32.2)
Open Beginner Novice 1: Jeannette Lussi and Rock’N Ranger (30.0)
Beginner Novice Senior: Sara Staley and Master Rudy (27.5)
Beginner Novice Junior: Sophia Boone and Champagne Taste (25.6)
Beginner Novice Rider: Alyssa Matthews and Just Keep Swimming (34.4)
Open Beginner Novice 2: Jacqui Ross and The Astral Rascal (29.1)
Open Starter: Lindsay Berreth and Guising (30.7)
Starter Rider: Laureanne Venter and I’ll Have Another (26.5)

Silverwood Farm Spring H.T. (WI): [Website][Scoring]

Open Training: Lauren DeGood and Southland Jazz (28.9)
Novice – Amateur: Kristin Kubsch and CMF Royal Diamond (26.9)
Novice – Junior: Mia Strunk and Thea Afroditi (29.8)
Open Novice: Ingvill Ramberg and WL Finlandia (29.5)
Beginner Novice – Amateur: Catherine Filkins and Annaharvey Chilli Pepper (40.0)
Beginner Novice – Junior: Annika Zimmerman and Lark (23.7)
Open Beginner Novice: Elly Bates and Bold Endeavor (33.4)
Pre-Starter: Meryl Selsby and Lexington (31.3)
Starter A: Audrey Fazio and I’m Not Famous (34.3)
Starter B: Koryn Werderits and Sound Doctrine (24.3)

Golden Spike H.T. (UT): [Website][Scoring]

Training Jr: Sophia Greenwood and Ardeo Martello Muse (26.4)
Training-Open: Lindsay Wagner and GCS Ardeo Jupiter (26.0)
Novice Jr: Joclyn Nelson and HS Cool River Noble (24.2)
Novice Open 2: Terri Cooper and Guttenberg (33.4)
Novice-Open 1: Grace Lebrecht and Wembley (32.5)
Beginner Novice Jr: Emry Erickson and Twisted Oliver (28.4)
Beginner Novice Open 2: Lindsay Wagner and Silver Lining (19.1)
Beginner Novice-Open 1: Brooke Mcsparin and As It Was (26.9)
Starter Jr: Amy Ahlstrom and Flyin Huckleberry (41.7)
Starter-Open: Carrie Matteson and Maestro De La Nuit (21.2)
Tadpole Jr: Evelyn Johnson and Bruiser Woods (34.1)
Tadpole-Open: Phil Jore and A Sonatina (31.3)

Full Gallop Farm June H.T. (SC): [Website][Scoring]

Preliminary: Maxine Preston and Cashmere (54.6)
Training A: Nilson Moreira Da Silva and Rivercar Lu (33.6)
Training B: Alyssa Peterson and HS Cool River Monalisa (32.8)
Novice A: Rebecca Meriwether Barron and Honorable Way (33.3)
Novice B: Shannon E. Riley and Starman (30.8)
Beginner Novice A: Jessica Schultz and A Giant View (28.1)
Beginner Novice B: Melissa Lucas and Fernhill Dignified (29.7)
Pre-Starter: Allysen Lindler and FGF Total Discretion (35.7)
Starter: Pippa Moon and Shearwater Rebel (24.7)

Little Bromont: Building the FEI Riders of the Future

By on Jun 16, 2025 11:00 am -

Kendal Lehari of Uxbridge, ON, won the EV110 division with License to Chill at
Petit/Little Bromont at the Bromont Olympic Equestrian Park © Cealy Tetley Photo

Following the overwhelming success of last weekend’s MARS Bromont CCI4* at the Bromont Olympic Equestrian Park, Sue Ockendon and her team ran a second major event this weekend focused on developing the next generation of FEI/international horses and riders.

Four countries were represented at Petit or Little Bromont Saturday and Sunday June 14/15 (Canada, USA, Ukraine and Colombia) across multiple levels: FEI CCI1*, EV110, EV100, EV90 and EV85; as well as the “I Can Event” (ICE) hybrid/combinée program at the 45, 60, 70 and 75cm height. The ICE divisions include a dressage test, followed by a jumping course consisting of a mix of cross-country fences and show-jumps, in an arena setting designed to introduce riders to the sport.

Widely recognized for her work championing young riders, and known for “doing things the right way”, event director Sue Ockendon doesn’t hesitate when asked about running Little Bromont just days after putting on the biggest international three-day event in the country:

“These riders (and young horses) are our future,” she said. “It’s the grassroots of our (eventing) sport. Running here at Bromont is what we have to do to get them ready to jump around courses at the upper FEI levels on the world stage.

“We had a great competition this weekend with riders from all over, and each year we run this event it gets better and better. Little Bromont is for the future of eventing because we keep it up to height and up to standards. I’m also encouraged by the growth of the “I Can Event” series and would love to see it eventually run on our grass, instead of in a show ring, to give them a feel for the real thing. It’s a great program and it’s wonderful to see the interest grow.”

CCI1*-S winners Lindsay Beer-Drury of Springwater, ON and Catherston Tick Tock © Cealy Tetley Photo

The FEI CCI1* saw the top three places hold their positions through all three phases: Saturday’s dressage and show jumping, followed by Sunday’s cross-country. Lindsay Beer-Drury of Springwater, ON, rode Catherston Tick Tock to the win, finishing on their dressage score of 26.7. Luciene Claudel of Richelieu, Quebec, added just 1.2 time penalties on cross-country to finish in second on 29.9 and Susana Tezanos Moreno of St. Eustache, Quebec, finished third on Clover, also on their dressage score of 30.3.

In the EV110 Kendal Lehari of Uxbridge, ON, captured the win with License to Chill, adding just 1.2 time penalties cross-country to finish on a final score of 37. Kimberley Bégin of Ste. Marthe, QC, took second and third with Victory Cents and Ultimate Legacy, just behind on 38.8 and 41.2 respectively.

For the complete list of results visit EventEntries.com.

Lucy Davis, 2024 inaugural recipient of an award to an outstanding individual (or individuals) who made a significant contribution to the sport of eventing in Canada. Pictured with Sue Ockendon, Lysel and Yves Landry, and Lorraine Laframboise. Photo by Michelle Dunn.

Two special awards were given out Sunday, honouring lifetime achievement in the sport, and celebrating young Canadian riders at the U18 level. Created in memory of Mary Anne and Guy Laframboise, the Laframboise Family Legacy Awards are in the second of their initial three year program. Mary Anne Laframboise and Sue Ockendon worked tirelessly and often side-by-side to improve opportunities for youth, coaching education and certification; and they spearheaded unprecedented growth in the number and quality of competitions, eventing training stables and Young Rider teams representing Canada. They were both passionately devoted to supporting and developing young rider athletes, as well as the breeding of event horses.

At the MARS Bromont CCI, the Laframboise Family Legacy Award recognized the highest placed U25 rider; and at Little Bromont, recognized the highest placed Canadian U18 rider in the core divisions, as well as honouring an outstanding individual (or individuals) who made a significant contribution to the sport of eventing in Canada.

Lysel and her husband Yves Landry, embraced the equestrian world in the early days of eventing in Canada. They have devoted their lives to horses and sport based out of their Écurie la Crinière farm in Napierville, QC.

With a nursing degree as a model for the care and nurturing of horses and humans in the sport and on her farm, Lysel has represented local and Quebec interests in equestrian sport as a committee member, competition organizer, farm owner, and wife and mother to international riders Yves and Isabelle respectively.

Yves, a Canadian Eventing High Performance Coach with a Bachelor of Physical Education, has been a member of the Canadian Eventing team, competing for Canada at the Pan American Games, Burghley and the then Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Together, Lysel and Yves have produced many successful sport horses with their breeding program and stallions.

Thank you Lysel and Yves for your passion and commitment to excellence in eventing in Canada. In the photo above: Lucy Davis, 2024 inaugural recipient Sue Ockendon, Lysel and Yves Landry, and Lorraine Laframboise.

The Canadian U18 award was earned by Catherine Latreille of Montreal, with her horse RS Morocco. They won the EV90-A division, finishing on their dressage score of 27.5. Catherine, a busy student who took the weekend away to compete, had already gone back to studying for exams tomorrow, but close family friend Gerrie Hoffman of Sutton, QC, accepted the cooler, prize and cheque on her behalf (photo below L-R Lysel Landry, Lorraine Laframboise, Gerrie Hoffman, event director Sue Ockendon and Yves Landry. Photos: Michelle Dunn.)

Lysel Landry, Lorraine Laframboise, Gerrie Hoffman, event director Sue Ockendon and Yves Landry. Photo by Michelle Dunn.

Competitors eager to experience all Bromont has to offer, can enter August Bromont CCI August 15-17, with FEI CCI4*-S through CCI1* and TEAM CHALLENGE (EV100/110 to be confirmed) and is an excellent opportunity for developing horses and riders. Entries are open now, for the Omnibus click HERE.

Plan to join us in June of 2026 for the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Montreal Summer Olympic Games, when the Bromont Olympic Equestrian Park played host to the equestrian events to great success.

Petit Bromont (Canada): [Website] [Scores]

Chris Bartle to Lead First-Ever Eventing Training at CHIO Aachen CAMPUS

By on Jun 16, 2025 9:00 am -

Chris Bartle heads up a Team GB stronghold at the in-gate. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

This July, the world-renowned CHIO Aachen grounds will welcome a new class of equestrian athletes as the CHIO Aachen CAMPUS hosts its first-ever International Training Camp for Eventing, led by one of the sport’s most respected figures: Chris Bartle.

Taking place from July 18–20, 2025, the immersive three-day program is designed for eventing riders competing at the international level, requiring participants to have achieved at least one Minimum Eligibility Requirement (MER) at the 2* level or above with their participating horse. The cost of the full program is €1,500 (about $1734 USD), which includes stabling, full board for both rider and a companion, and a packed schedule of world-class education.

“Aachen is an amazing venue,” said Chris, who currently serves as the British Eventing High Performance Coach. “It will be great to have eventing as part of the CHIO Aachen CAMPUS for the first time. We want to expand the standard of the sport and provide new incentives for riders and horses.”

Participants will train across the CHIO Aachen Dressage Stadium and the iconic Aachen cross-country course (weather permitting), offering a rare opportunity to ride on the same turf as the world’s top eventers. Bartle will lead an intensive program focused on developing a deeper partnership between horse and rider, emphasizing clear communication, shared responsibility, and a system riders can rely on even under the pressure of top competition.

Program Highlights:
Day 1: Technical arena training focused on the core principles of cross-country riding

Day 2: Individual dressage sessions in the CHIO Aachen Dressage Stadium

Day 3: Cross country session on the official CHIO Aachen course (weather-dependent)

Additional Features:

  • Seat training on the advanced SAP equestrian simulator, replicating the Aachen cross country course
  • Fitness training tailored to riders
  • Theory session on cross-country fundamentals
  • Course walk and video analysis of the 2025 CHIO Aachen cross country
  • Q&A with Chris Bartle in the official CHIO Aachen press conference room

Throughout the camp, Chris will share his proven training philosophy: “The rider communicates with the horse through seat position and body language, supported by seat, leg, and only finally with the hand.” This method helped guide Germany to multiple team medals during his 16-year tenure with their national eventing program.

For those who’ve dreamed of riding at Aachen but haven’t yet made it to the World Equestrian Festival, this camp provides an exclusive opportunity to train at the sport’s pinnacle venue while learning from one of its most influential minds.

More information and registration details can be found here.

Monday News & Notes from Futuretrack

By on Jun 16, 2025 12:01 am -

Don’t miss out on a Virtual Pride Panel happening on Friday, June 27 and hosted via the Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation! A diverse group of panelists will be coming together to share their insights, experiences, and more. It’s going to be an incredible event, you won’t want to miss! More information, including how to register, is coming soon, but in the meantime you can stay in the loop by following the Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation on Instagram here.

Major International Results

Longines Luhmühlen CCI5* (Germany): [Website] [Scores] [H&C+ Live Stream Replays] [EN’s Coverage]

Petit Bromont (Canada): [Website] [Scores]

U.S. Weekend Preview

Aspen Farm H.T. (WA): [Website] [Scores]

Shepherd Ranch Pony Club H.T. I (CA): [Website] [Scores]

Horse Park of New Jersey H.T. I (NJ): [Website] [Scores]

Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T. (MD): [Website] [Scores]

Silverwood Farm Spring H.T. (WI): [Website] [Scores]

Golden Spike H.T. (UT): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scores]

Full Gallop Farm June H.T. (SC): [Website] [Scores]

News & Reading

In an effort to increase entries for the 2025 USEA Area 1 Championships, the Area 1 Council is pleased to announce an update to the qualification criteria for this year’s Championships that will be held August 16-17, 2025 in conjunction with Genesee Valley Riding & Driving Club August H.T. in Geneseo, NY. The update in qualification criteria will now permit rider and horse combinations in any level Starter through Preliminary, to become qualified for the Championships upon placing 1st through 5th at one (1) USEA recognized event in Area 1 (including Amateur placings). For Modified and Preliminary the result may be from a USEA recognized event in any area. Placings 1st through 5th from the start of the qualification period, August 18 2024, will be honored in this change. To read more about these changes, click here.

On June 11, US Equestrian held its first town hall discussion focused on horse welfare at the Split Rock Hunter Jumper Classic II at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky. The event is the first in a series of public discussions planned throughout 2025 to engage participants in open dialog on concepts including potential rule and policy changes aimed at improving horse safety and well-being. The participants in attendance widely represented the hunter/jumper disciplines, but there are some interesting takeaways you can read up on here.

A lot of riders misunderstand the distinction between contact and connection. In this article, Olympic dressage rider Laura Graves breaks down the differences between the two and explains how you can improve both — read it here.

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Myth: “Natural Means Less Effective”
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Stay tuned for more myths (and solutions) coming your way here in Monday News & Notes! In the meantime, you can learn more about EcoVet here.

Video Break

It was a first competition weekend for little Lio Jung — the first of many, we reckon!

A Win, Deferred: Ros Canter Rewrites Her Luhmühlen Story with Izilot DHI

By on Jun 15, 2025 4:06 pm -

Ros Canter and Izilot DHI. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Very nearly one year ago to the day, Ros Canter rode into the main arena at the Longines Luhmühlen Horse Trials on her 2023 Pau champion Izilot DHI on as near to a sure thing as you can get. She and the then-eleven-year-old had overcome his notorious spookiness to place top of the pack in the first phase; had added just two seconds of time over a tough cross-country track to retain their lead; found themselves, enviably, with two fences and a tiny smattering of time in hand going into the final phase. Luhmühlen’s showjumping is one of the two toughest in the world at the five-star level, but Izilot – or Isaac, at home – had already bested the other one at Pau, and he hadn’t had a single rail down in an international since his first CCI2*-S in 2019. 

But what is a five-star if not the most efficient and effective way to put all your hopes, your dreams, your doubts, your expectations and your statistics into a blender and mangle them into something you hadn’t even thought of imagining? Ros and Isaac were just three fences from home when their first rail dropped. Then the next went. That was okay: they had those two to spare, and all they had to do was jump out of the double cleanly, and over the final fence, and the 2024 Luhmühlen title would be theirs. 

They did – but as Ros and the packed audience made to celebrate, it felt as though time stopped for just a fraction of a second. Or, perhaps more accurately, the time hadn’t stopped. Ros had tipped over the time allowed by five seconds – four more than she had to spare. Those 2 time penalties meant she had to settle for fourth place, and yielded the crown to Belgium’s Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and her homebred Hooney d’Arville, who’d jumped an exceptional clear to move up from third. 

Ros Canter and Izilot DHI. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Later on that season, Ros admitted that the loss of the win had played on her mind. And on her return, she vowed, she’d learn from what had happened and ensure she and Alex Moody’s strange but ultra-talented gelding got the result they deserved.

Today, that redemption arc was completed. Ros and Isaac cantered into the arena in second place – a placing they’ve held since the first phase, in which they scored a 26, and didn’t lose when adding a scant 2.8 time penalties over yesterday’s enormously influential cross-country course. This time, they easily popped over each of the fences; didn’t lose any focus down the busy grandstand side of the arena; and gave Ros her second clear of the day after her sterling first round on MHS Seventeen. 

It hadn’t been a foregone conclusion – even without last year’s plot twist on the brain, today’s showjumping had already caused considerable issues, with 31 fences falling over the previous 23 rounds. And even jumping clear and inside the tight 82 second time wouldn’t mean a win unless some seriously bad luck befell two-phase leaders Laura Collett and London 52, here on a mission to regain their 2023 title and add their fourth five-star win from as many starts. 

Ros Canter and Izilot DHI. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

But hey: hopes, dreams, doubts, meet blender. Laura and London 52 are always a confidence-boosting pair to watch over the poles, and their round today was no exception – until it was. The first part of the influential treble combination at 10A fell, thuddingly, and that was that. The streak was over; Ros Canter was the Luhmühlen champion. 

“I’m a bit surprised, really,” admits Ros. “I’d have been absolutely delighted with second! But we’re just so thrilled that the horse has come out again with confidence. He hasn’t been an easy character, but he is a really, really genuine horse – and sometimes I think some people think he’s just a bit naughty, but actually, he’s just really genuine and genuinely spooky.”

While she might be surprised at the sequence of events that led to her move-up to the win, the sea change in her own round is less of a shock – because it comes after a lot of reflection and system changes to make it all work this year.

“I feel like last year, I lost my first place and I blamed myself, and so I worked quite hard on how I presented myself today and the mental side behind it. I changed a few things and I was more relaxed today, and I gave him a much better ride, so I’m just delighted,” she says. 

Those changes, she says, largely centred around time management – a tricky thing to get right over the course of Luhmühlen’s lightning-fast Sunday schedule, which puts the five-star’s showjumping less than an hour after the horse inspection, leaving limited time to plan and prepare. 

“Last year, I felt like I got caught out by the timings,” she explains. “We jump a lot earlier here than we normally do. Normally, if you’re in the top ten of a five star, you jump in the afternoon session, so you walk the course, and I might watch a few, and I might rewalk the course in the lunchtime break, and then go and get my head into it and so on. Last year, I felt that it caught me out that it was all a bit more of a rush. 

“So that’s the biggest change I made here – last night, I just put time into having a plan ready for this morning. I like to walk [the course] three or four times if I can, and I didn’t manage that last year – suddenly [the class] started and I hadn’t even got changed yet. So I made sure this year, straight after the trot up I went up, I got changed, and then I came back. I was very much ready for it, which worked a lot better. I just can’t rush stuff like that.”

Last year, she continues, she also travelled down with other people, and this time, she knew she needed to eke out some time by herself to get her head in the game.

“I’m definitely the type of person that needs to put work into the mental side of things. I need to prepare myself for a round,” she says. “Today, I knew after [MHS Seventeeen]’s round that Isaac was going to be coming down [from the stables], and so I went and locked myself in a loo and just rewatched a video that I was proud of, and just really got the plan in my head so I felt more relaxed in the warm up.”

Ros Canter and Izilot DHI. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Finally, she says, a bit change for Isaac added to the marginal gains that shapeshifted their final phase result. 

“That’s also made a huge difference. He was just in a normal metal gag before, and now he’s in a nathe pelham. He’s got such a long stride that when I used to shorten it, he went slower. Last year I got the time faults, and I just felt I couldn’t compress him very easily, whereas in the nathe pelham, I’m able to get that little bit more spring into the canter. He loves it.” 

Even with all her boxes ticked, though, Ros wasn’t immune to the colossal weight of expectation as she entered the ring. 

“The pressure was on, not just on from a competition point of view, but the pressure was on me as well. Today, I put pressure on myself, and I thought a lot about how I wanted to perform today – everything was geared up to try and pull off that result.”

Ros Canter and Izilot DHI: your 2025 Luhmühlen champions. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Now, Ros can add a Luhmühlen title to her Badminton wins this year and in 2023 with Lordships Graffalo; a Burghley title and Paris team gold last year, and the European Championships team and individual gold in 2022, also with Lordships Graffalo; a Pau victory with Izilot DHI in 2023; and the individual World Championship title in 2018 with Allstar B. She also takes home an educational 19th place with the inexperienced MHS Seventeen, who picked up 20 penalties on course yesterday but of whom she says she’s “very, very proud.”

How’s the view from the top, anyway?

“I can’t believe it, really – I didn’t think when I was growing up that I was ever going to do anything like this,” she says. “It’s hard to believe that I keep doing it, but I’m just lucky that I’ve got horses like him, aren’t I?”

Sam Lissington and Ricker Ridge Sooty GNZ. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

British-based Kiwi Sam Lissington took advantage of the open door left by Laura and London 52 to move up into second place with Ricker Ridge Sooty GNZ, with whom she jumped a clear round that looked very nearly jump-off speed – but almost saw them tick over the time allowed nonetheless. 

The reason? Sooty’s just not a very big horse, and Sam had to race the seconds to make it home without penalties when horses with a longer stride might have looked steadier when covering more ground. 

Having just the one horse to ride this week, though, helped Sam to harness the strengths of the little fourteen-year-old. 

“He’s very small, and I’ve gotten used to it now, but it’s a lot easier when I’m just riding him by himself – when I’m riding my other five-star horse with him [at the same show] he really does feel very small,” laughs Sam. “The jumps feel bigger with him than they do with other horses.”

But, she says, “we don’t have problems in the combinations, and we don’t have problems making time. He does, though, put in a lot of effort over the fences, and so my strategy normally is to be a little bit more patient, which I couldn’t afford to do today. So it was a bit of a balance between galloping around and then adding a little bit of patience at every fence, and then trying to get him up in the air with enough scope. I’m glad we could execute [that plan today].”

If she hadn’t, she explains that it would never have been down to a lack of talent or honesty on the gelding’s part. 

“He’s so, so obedient and rideable – like, he’s a teacher’s pet, and he always has been, and he’s a very much a yes man,” she says. “But almost to the point where, if you make a mistake, that’s a mistake, because he just does what he’s told. He’s never going to take over and do something – for sure, he’s got incredible footwork, and he’ll pat the ground and fix a mistake, from that point of view. But basically, if you make a mistake, it’s your fault.”

This result – Sam’s best yet at five-star – comes in the thick of a purple patch for the 33-year-old, who recently made history by taking the top three spots in a CCI4*-L class at Royal Jump in France.

“It’s a reflection of the cumulative effect of years and years and years of work,” she says. “Like, this horse – I found him as a five-year-old with his owner, Pip McCarroll, in New Zealand, and nine years later we’re on the other side of the world. We knew he’d be a good horse, and I’m so glad I’ve been able to show the world just what a horse is – but it’s not just that. To show the world, we’ve had to shift our lives from New Zealand, start a whole new business, survive Covid whilst trying to start a business, build a team of horses to the point that you can ride with confidence like that – it’s just huge, isn’t it? It’s not just the result, it’s the last fifteen years of work that’s led up to it. We’re riding a wave, and I just hope the wave continues and we take the learnings and build on them.”

Laura Collett and London 52. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

While Laura Collett and London 52 would have preferred to add a fourth win from four five-star starts to their record, their third-place finish is still an incredibly impressive addition to their extraordinary track record at this level. Their solitary pole late on course today represents the only penalties they add to their first-phase score of 25.4, which was the best of the class and remained so after a fault-free cross-country round yesterday. 

“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed,” admits Laura. “I think anyone in that position would be disappointed, more for the horse than anything else. He jumped amazing, and didn’t really deserve to have a rail, but it’s the sport, and I’ve said all along, he doesn’t owe me anything. So for me, the main thing is he’s coming home in one piece, and he’s yet again performed and showed everyone what a spectacular horse he is. I’m so lucky to ride him.”

“It’s just ironic,” she continues, “that the last time he was here, he had a fence in hand and didn’t need it, and this year, he had nothing in hand and had a rail!”

Laura also finished seventh with the fourteen-year-old Hester, a former ride of fellow Brit Alex Bragg and Kiwi Jonelle Price. They added two rails and 0.8 time penalties to their 1.2 time penalties yesterday to finish on a score of 43.9.

Laura’s two rides – rangy, modern-looking London 52 and the more solid, ‘traditional’ looking Hester prove that there’s no true stamp of an event horse. It is, she explains, much more about what’s inside. 

“For me, the most important thing is their heart. Really, you can have the most talented horse in the world, but if they don’t want to do it, they’re not going to do it, or they’re going to let you down when it really matters. With London, he doesn’t have the best conformation; he doesn’t have the best technique over a fence; as a young horse, he wasn’t ever really built for cross country – but he’s got a heart of gold, and he’s got the will to win, and that’s what’s turned him into, I personally think, one of the greatest event horses around.”

Of Hester, who she took on at the start of the pandemic, she says, “I’m super proud of her – the way she’s improved from here last year, she’s grown in confidence. I felt she grew in confidence here at the event last year, and she’s just built on that, which I think is a credit to the course designer, to be able to bring a green horse here and have such a good experience that they come back a year later feeling like a true five-star horse. I feel very lucky to have more than one amazing five-star horse in my string.”

Cosby Green and Highly Suspicious. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

British-based US rider Cosby Green closed out a career-defining week, finishing in the top ten with both Highly Suspicious, who jumped clear and one second over the time allowed to take fourth place, and Jos UFO de Quidam, who tipped the first part of the treble combination to take eighth. 

“I’m just really pleased and excited and happy, and just really happy for the team and my support crew and everyone that works their butt off for me – it’s just amazing to be able to produce that result for them,” says Cosby, who has spent the last two seasons with Tim and Jonelle Price in Dorset, and who has obviously inherited their penchant for easy speed – she finished inside the time with one horse, and just one second over with the other on yesterday’s track, which helped her climb from 18th and 36th with them. 

“This is always kind of the expectation, to try to finish as close to dressage score as you can,” says Cosby. “I know these horses so well, and so that was always kind of the intention. You always hope, but you never know if it’ll really happen or not. So we’ve trained and prepared for that to be the case; we’ve been on the fitness; we’ve been practicing away – and it’s just nice when it comes together.”

Lea Siegl and DSP Fighting Line. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Austria’s Lea Siegl had an inauspicious start to the day with the five-star debutant Van Helsing P, who dropped from tenth to fifteenth after a surprising and uncharacteristic stop at fence 7 and three rails, but returned with her Tokyo Olympic partner DSP Fighting Line to deliver a classy clear inside the time, which moved them up from eighth place to a final fifth. It’s another five-star placing in the bag for the eighteen-year-old stalwart, who finished sixth at Pau last year and will now bow out of the sport. 

“I’m really happy with him,” says Lea. “He tried really hard today, and I always can count on him. He never lets me down. He’s just a very special horse, and he’s 18, so I planned that this is his last competition – and it was a wonderful last competition with him.”

Now, she says, ‘Fighty’ “will go back to Austria, to the owners, and enjoy the fields. He’s been with me for 10 years. We went through Juniors, Young Riders, and up to Senior levels to the Olympic Games. He’s just a very special horse for me and I owe him quite a lot. I learned it all from him.”

Malin Hansen-Hotopp and Carlitos Quidditch K. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Germany’s Malin Hansen-Hotopp and Carlitos Quidditch K brought it home for the host nation with an excellent clear inside the time to climb to sixth place. That completes a week that saw them start in third place after a 28.9 dressage, then drop down to twelfth following a MIM activation on course yesterday. For Malin, having another result at this level to add to the fourth place they earned at Kentucky last year is an enormously emotional moment. 

“To have this horse to go to Kentucky last year and came out with the fourth place, and now a sixth place here, I can’t be more proud of him. I think that’s just special,” says Malin, who hopes to be selected for the European Championships again this year – a goal that looks like a very achievable one, particularly considering their win in the CCI4*-L at Blenheim in 2022. But beyond that, she’s dreaming of her next five-star start. 

“Yesterday, because it feels so easy for him, I was like, ‘okay, maybe we can go to Badminton next year,’” she grins.

Isabel English and Cil Dara Dallas. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

British-based Australian Isabel English finished ninth with the rangy grey Cil Dara Dallas  — a horse with so much leg to him that it’s like two of her pony-sized former five-star partner, Feldale Mouse, stacked on top of one another in a trenchcoat. She piloted the ten-year-old to a clear round with 1.6 time penalties that boosted them up the leaderboard from fourteenth into the top ten, following a clear round yesterday with 8.8 time penalties.

Robbie Kearnes and Chance Encounter. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Ireland’s Robbie Kearnes and Chance Encounter rounded out the top ten, adding just one rail to a weeklong tally that saw them start in 37th place on a 39.2 and move up to eleventh after adding just 2 time penalties yesterday.

Mike Winter and El Mundo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Mike Winter and El Mundo took eleventh place for Canada with a super clear round, adding just 0.8 time penalties and moving up from the 15th place they’d claimed when cruising home with 11.6 time penalties yesterday. That completes a weeklong climb up the rankings from initial 22nd for the pair.

The top ten in Luhmühlen’s 2025 CCI5*.

Julia Krajewski and Uelzener’s Nickel. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

In this afternoon’s suddenly very stormy CCI4*-s, two-phase leaders Julia Krajewski and her Paris Olympics partner — and Boekelo and Aachen winner — Uelzener’s Nickel got the job done in fine style with a faultless clear round in the pouring rain, securing them the win and the German National Championship title.

“He’s eleven now, but the feeling he’s always getting stronger and stronger and better and better,” says Julia. “To be honest, Luhmühlen wasn’t our luckiest competition so far. Two years ago, I believe he had two down, and last year, one down, and but he’s just the most genuine horse, and I think he really learns every time he goes out, and he always wants to do well. He would never think of not doing something right.”

“I’ve had many different horses and characters, and he’s maybe, somehow the most genuine, honest one,” she continues. “If I think of [Tokyo Olympic individual champion] Amande de b’Neville, I think she was always next level, and I always knew she was a superstar, I only have to get it right and I have to get on her side — but with Nickel, he’s just so, so willing. He’s a very sweet, nice character, and you always feel like you want to protect him. I thought about doing the five-star and then back and forth, back and forth. Maybe he’s not quite strong enough physically yet, because mentally, he would do everything. And then I feel if they are so willing, you, it’s your job to not jump on the fast track, but to protect the physical side. So I’m very happy I did it like this, and I’m so proud of my horse. And also, I said it a few times this week, but his owner, Professor Bernd Heike, who bought him for me last summer [when he was put up for sale after the Olympics], he’s here, and it’s the first time since 2019 that he made it to a show. He couldn’t see Mandy win in Tokyo because of COVID, and he’s 90 years old, so to win this for him is super special.”

Nickel, who began eventing just four years ago and was initially with Julia as a junior horse for one of her students, hasn’t always been an obvious superstar, but hasn’t yet hit the limit of what he can do — and Julia’s decision to spend her winters based in the foothills of Rome at the yard of her boyfriend, Pietro Roman, has helped to bring his string along so he can head for the topmost level at his peak.

“He always tries, and he would do when stepping up a level. It’s not a problem that he wouldn’t do cross country, but it’s a little bit, think sometimes you go a bit ahead of the physical strengths,” says Julia. “I really feel he’s growing [in strength] — like every three, four, five months, someone comes and says, ‘oh, he got more strong again’, and he feels stronger again. That’s really cool. In Rome, we have a hill where we can work on — they go into the arena, they go downhill and to the stable, back up, and I think that makes quite a difference to get the basic strength into them. And then it’s patience. With horses, you can do a lot, but you can’t speed up time.”

Emma Brüssau and Dark Desire GS. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

26-year-old Emma Brüssau finished second in both the class itself and the German National Championship with her longtime partner, the sixteen-year-old Dark Desire GS. They’d begun their week in fifth place on a score of 34.1, and then climbed up to second after delivering one of just four clear rounds inside the time on yesterday’s cross-country track. Today, they added just one second, or 0.4 time penalties, to secure the Vice Championship.

Australia’s Andrew Cooper and Sharvalley Thunder took third place in the CCI4*-S, retaining the place they’d earned yesterday with a clear inside the time this afternoon. The pair have travelled over from Australia to gain experience at European competitions ahead of next year’s World Equestrian Games.

And so, for now, that’s it from us from Luhmühlen — thanks for joining us on the ride. We’ll be back on German turf in just two weeks time for CHIO Aachen; until then, Go Eventing.

The top ten in the Meßmer Trophy CCI4*-S.

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