Classic Eventing Nation

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: 4 Gorgeous Grays Who Want to Go Home With You

By on Jul 11, 2018 9:00 am -

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

Don’t mind buying out the tack store of purple shampoo … every week? Totally okay with everything you own being constantly covered in white hair? If you answered yes, maybe you should seek help. If you answered no, let’s be real — who can resist a gorgeous gray? Here are four stunning grays who want to go home with you.

Excel Star Armina Z. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Excel Star Armina Z: Ready to win in any discipline!

Excel Star Armina Z: 2012 16.2h grey imported Zangersheide mare by Air Jordan. This recently imported beautiful grey mare is truly an exceptional athlete. Armina has done some competing overseas and is ready to go and win for you in the US. She is light in the bridle, moves well and is always in good form over fences. She has an excellent lead change and will get you noticed in whatever discipline you choose. Armina is suitable for both the amateur and professional rider looking for their next competitive partner. Located in Pennsylvania.

CC Granville. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

CC Granville 2012 Preliminary Grey TB Gelding

CC Granville: “Levi” is an elegant six year old (2012), 16’2 dark grey thoroughbred gelding. Levi started his eventing career as a 5 year old and completed the season at training level. This spring he successfully upgraded to preliminary at Aspen Farms, and will be competing at Rebecca Farms in a few weeks.

Levi is an easy snaffle ride all three phases, is a soft easy ride down to a fence, and always tries to please. He is a very lovable horse both on the ground and under saddle, and would excel with an ambitious young rider wanting to climb the levels. He is elegant and obedient in dressage with good movement. Levi is also very brave cross country with a lovely gallop and he is a careful show jumper. Located in British Columbia.

Charmer. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Flashy Grey Alert

Attention Pony Clubbers and Adult Amateurs! Charmer is an eight year old TB that I bought directly from his racing trainer in February 2013. He did local shows, novice combined tests, and competed in the beginner novice division of the War Horse Series in North Carolina his four and five year old years. Since then, he has been almost dormant while I went back to school. He’s been hacking out with occasional jumping and flat work. He has been back in a program for the last 30 days.

I’ve finally reached the decision that I don’t have the time to devote to him that he wants and deserves. He’s looking for a young rider or adult amateur that will appreciate his work ethic and forward mind set. He needs to be gotten fit again and then he could go almost any direction – dressage, eventing, jumpers, trail riding — I’ve even pushed cows on him.

No soundness issues, and up to date on all health and maintenance. Did all three phases of eventing in a double jointed snaffle and hacks out in a hackamore. He has ground manners and ships well solo or with others. His racing owner and breeder found me on social media, so he’s documented back to birth. Located in North Carolina.

Luck of the Draw. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Serious Upper- Level Prospect! Competing CC1*

Luck of the Draw, or “Benny”, is a stunning 7yo 16.1h Connemara/TB cross by ArdCeltic Art. He has completed a CCI1*, and has the scope and potential to be very competitive at the upper levels. He is a sweet horse, easy to do at home and at the shows. Benny needs a confident rider to bring him to his full potential, YR/Ammys in a program yes, but no beginners please! This is is a top class horse with a bright future ahead of him. Sound with current X-rays! Located in Kentucky.

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

Wednesday News & Notes from Attwood Equestrian Surfaces

By on Jul 11, 2018 12:01 am -

The fashion is high at the fabulous Fitch’s Corner. Photo courtesy of Fernanda Kellogg.

Founded 25 years ago, the Fitch’s Corner Horse Trials has been a popular summer fixture in the greater Hudson Valley.  Held July 21 and 22 on the farm of Fernanda Kellogg and Kirk Henckels in Millbrook, NY.  The weekend’s activities support the Millbrook Fire Department Rescue Squad, a volunteer organization which provides emergency services to the largest area in Dutchess County. Fitch’s Corner Horse Trials has benefited the Rescue Squad for the past 24 years and has raised more than $465,000.

The horse competition features dressage, cross country jumping and stadium jumping in a triathlon format. 300 horses will compete for $25,000 in prize money.  Riders will include local star Booli Selmeyer and Olympic rider Boyd Martin.

General admission is free to the public. In addition to the horse eventing competition on Saturday and Sunday, spectators can enjoy a wide range of shopping at Fitch’s Market featuring over 50 shops featuring women’s fashions, men’s attire, jewelry, accessories, home, gifts for horse and hound and more.  At the Fitch’s Food Court find The Crooked Rooster for great burgers, and the Great Cape Baking Company and Supreme Cream for shakes and other delights.

To celebrate Fitch’s 25 years will be a special photo exhibition by social photographer Mary Hilliard featuring a retrospective of Fitch’s over the years.

New this year will be the 2018 Rolls-Royce Owners Club Atlantic Region Concours held on Sunday July 22. The RROC promotes the preservation, restoration, use and enjoyment of Rolls-Royce and Bentley motorcars. The concours complements these objectives by evaluating cars on numerous criteria against standards of perfection. Over 20 classic Rolls and Bentley’s will compete this year and specators are welcome to this very special event. Cars arrive on Fitch’s Corner field at 8:30 am on Sunday, July 22nd and judging begins at 9 am. A parade of the cars takes place in the arena following the Spectator Luncheon.

The Fitch’s Corner Hall of Fame Award will be presented to Barbara and Donald Tober with Special Recognition to Houlihan Lawrence Real Estate for enhancing the equestrian world and philanthropic support of the community.

National Holiday: National Blueberry Muffins Day

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Gennessee Valley Hunt H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Riga Meadow H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Maryland at Loch Moy II H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Champagne Run at the Park H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Coconino Summer II 3DE & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Your Wednesday News & Notes

The junior riders will soon start their trek to Rebecca for the NAYC. The USEA has written up a quick profile of each rider on the CCI1* Junior Championships teams, with areas sending between one and five pairs out to Montana. [Meet the NAYC Junior Riders]

The horsey profile you’ve all been waiting for is finally here! La Biosthetique Sam FBW wasn’t always the stand-out in Micheal Jung’s yard but he showed up to work every day and soon showed his true potential. While pretty laid back, his strongest dislikes include awards ceremonies, crowded warm-ups, and tight trailering spots. [Behind the Stall Door]

If you’re on track for a Three-Day at Waredaca, consider the Three-Day Challenge. Riders will gain points at competitions by competing in at least two of the four ‘Road to the Three-Day’ events, which consist of HP of NJ II, Waredaca August, Seneca Valley PC, and Morven Park, all leading up to the fall N/T/P3D series at Waredaca in October. [Area II Organizers Offer Road to the Three-Day Challenge]

Attwood Wisdom of the Week – The Importance of Drainage

No doubt about it this has been a rainy spring for most of the East Coast. But no matter where you live, we have all seen the negative effects of too much rain on a poorly constructed arena.

An arena’s drainage system is your first line of defense when the skies open up. Every outdoor should have the minimum of at least one designed French drain INSIDE the arena. Why inside? So that the water does not have to go under or over kickboards to drain away, washing away your footing creating gullies and puddles.

Designing your drainage system is as important as the choice of footing you put in your arena. Ideally your drainage system should let the water leave in a steady consistent manner.

The drainage system should reflect the use of the arena. If the arena cannot have any downtime, more drainage should be incorporated which translates into more maintenance of the footing. More watering and more dragging ensures the footing stays in tip-top shape.

There are always trade offs in creating a perfect riding surface. That’s why riders like Phillip Dutton and Boyd Martin turn to Attwood for their expertise and scientifically proven formulas. Have any footing questions or photos you want to share? Attwood Equestrian Surfaces will be happy to post them on their Facebook and Instagram account. Just email them to [email protected].

Tuesday Video from SpectraVet: Meet NAYC Athlete Kanyon Walker

By on Jul 10, 2018 6:00 pm -

When he’s not riding, Kanyon Walker is on another field—a football field that is. Splitting his time between these intense sports and school, he’s learned what it takes to be a dedicated athlete. Described as a “natural competitor” by his coach, Jennifer Holling, Kanyon is headed to the FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC) to represent Area I next week with his own  Kenneth Street, a 9-year-old Thoroughbred gelding (Crystal Class x Pray For Booger). Meet Kanyon and give him a big cheer next week at Rebecca Farm!

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Novice to NAYC: Partnerships Play a Part for Area III Young Rider Team

By on Jul 10, 2018 2:00 pm -

It’s a special moment to be selected for an event as prestigious as the FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC). It’s even better to go on a horse that has taken you from Beginner Novice to the FEI level because through all the ups and downs over the years, you and your horse have formed a partnership founded on trust, understanding and communication.

Area III Young Riders is sending a full team of four to compete in the NAYC CCI* at The Event at Rebecca Farm this month. It’s an accomplishment in itself, but each of these young ladies is making her first appearance at NAYC on a horse she’s ridden through the lower levels up to FEI. Way to go!

Now without further adieu, let’s meet the Area III NAYC CCI* team!

Ryan Wood and Galway Blazer. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Ryan Wood is 18 years old and from Mobile, Alabama. She and her 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding Galway Blazer are longtime partners and have come up through the levels together. This year they’ve finished first, second and fourth in three Preliminary appearances and in April completed their first CCI* at the Ocala International 3-Day Festival of Eventing presented by Ocala Ranches.

“It is such an honor to be competing at this event and I am so excited to ride alongside my teammates. I always thought it would be amazing to compete at this championship, but never expected it to actually happen!” Ryan said.

“I wasn’t sure how far the lanky 3-year-old I bought would go and I certainly wasn’t sure how far we would go after a colic surgery when he was six. And yet, here we are! Montana will be a completely different show experience than I’ve ever had before, but I absolutely can’t wait.”

Grace Smith and Fernhill Saulsford Nazar. Photo courtesy of Grace Smith.

Grace Smith is 16 years old and from Newnan, Georgia. She and her 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding Fernhill Saulsford Nazar have been partnered for two years. They competed in their first Novice together in summer of 2016 and were winning at Preliminary by early 2017. Most recently, they finished fifth at Chattahoochee Hills last month.

“My horse is feeling better than ever. We have both worked hard to get here and are honored to represent Area III at the NAYC. It is a dream come true!” Grace said.

Jessie Schwartz and WHF Kitaro. Photo by Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Jessie Schwartz is 17 years old and from Alpharetta, Georgia. She and her 13-year-old Thoroughbred/Trakehner gelding WHF Kitaro have racked up several top 10 Preliminary finishes since moving up to the level in January 2017 and have successfully completed two CCI* events.

“I’m so excited to be chosen to represent Area III at NAYC this year. Since the day I started riding Kitaro four years ago I knew I wanted to go to Young Riders with him,” Jessie said.

“In these past years, he has not only matched but exceeded my determination to go after these dreams. Together we have figured out how to move up the levels and now I can’t wait to get the experience competing on a team with my best friend.”

Leila Saxe and Mr Bojangles. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Leila Saxe is 15 years old and from Atlanta, Georgia. She and the 10-year-old Thoroughbred gelding Mr. Bojangles, owned by Angelia and Wayne Saxe, are very experienced at the level, with 14 Preliminary and two CCI* completions under their belts.

“I am so honored and excited to be representing Area III at NAYC this year. I have owned Mr. Bojangles for three years now. When I first bought him we started at Beginner Novice. Who would have known we’d be where we are now?” Leila said.

“About seven months ago I moved away from my parents to train with Kyle Carter and make it on the Young Rider Team. This once in a lifetime opportunity has presented itself to me and I am so grateful for that. I am happy to ride and compete with my team at this event!”

Team Area III. Photo via Facebook.

The Area III team will be coached by Julie Richards who represented the Area III Young Riders at the NAYC CCI2* in 1988. She went on to be a member of the 2000 and 2004 U.S. Olympic Team, helping to earn a team bronze medal in 2004. Julie is based in Newnan, Georgia where she teaches and trains horses and riders of all levels. This is the first year coaching the Area III Young Riders. She said, “I look forward to helping guide these awesome girls through this championship in Montana.”

The Area III team will also be supported in Montana by head groom Katie Strickland. She has been a professional groom for over 25 years, working with upper level riders and Olympians. Fun fact: Katie groomed for Julie when she competed at Young Riders!

Area III Young Rider Coordinator Allina Bell will serve as chef d’equipe, parent wrangler and #1 cheerleader.

We’re less than two weeks away from the start of the 2018 NAYC! Go Young Riders. Go Eventing.

Tracy Bowman Selected for 2018 FEI World Para-Driving Championships

By on Jul 10, 2018 12:01 pm -

Tracy Bowman, left, and Jolie Wentworth with Taylamor Laurabelle. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

You may know Tracy Bowman as a top eventing trainer at Kismet Farms in Martinez, California. What you might not know is that Tracy also competes at the highest level of combined driving and has been selected to represent the U.S. at the 2018 FEI World Para-Driving Championships for Single Horses, which will take place Aug. 28-Sept. 2 in Kronenberg, Netherlands.

Tracy has enjoyed a slew of success with Taylamor Laurabelle, her 16-year-old Welsh Cob mare, and together they have racked up wins competing against able-bodied riders. Tracy and “Bella” most recently won the Advanced/Intermediate Single Pony division at Clay Station CDE this year, as well as the Advanced Single Pony division at Shady Oaks CDE division last year.

“Driving has given me the opportunity to get back into the ring as a competitor, and it is a very exciting sport,” Tracy said. “I am very fortunate to coach many incredible three-day eventing riders, and doing so has taken me to events all across the globe, but this trip will certainly be unlike any other if we are able to get the funds together in time.”

Jolie Wentworth, who Tracy coached to the CCI4* level with GoodKnight and Killian O’Connor, said she hopes the eventing community will support Tracy’s dream to represent her country on the world stage.

“Tracy is a very well-rounded horsewoman. What she has accomplished in her driving career is very impressive and if you have ever seen a driving competition, then you realize the magnitude of how difficult and thrilling of a sport it really is,” Jolie said.

“I hope our community can come together to help her achieve her goal of competing in the Netherlands, especially because she has helped so many top riders in equestrian sports achieve their dreams.”

Tracy and Bella have a specially designed custom carriage, and the cost to get them and their carriage to Europe and back will be about $30,000. An online auction is running through July 22 with all proceeds going to fund the trip to the FEI World Para-Driving Championships. Click here to bid. You can also make a tax-deductible donation through SCES.

You can watch Tracy and Bella in action at Clay Station CDE in the video below. We wish Tracy and Bella all the best as they gear up to make the trip to the Netherlands. You can follow along with their journey on Facebook. Go Combined Driving!

[Let’s Get Tracy to the World Championships! Online Auction]

Weekend Winners: Huntington Farm, Loch Moy, Chatt Hills, Twin Rivers, Whidbey Island, Powder Basin, Coconino

By on Jul 10, 2018 7:00 am -

Growing up, I loved flipping to the back of my weekly Chronicle of the Horse magazines to see who won what over the weekend — and, on the occasion that I’d had a good horse trial finish myself, excitedly racing around the house pointing at the fine print and shouting to my family: “Look, it’s my name!” As much as any blue ribbon, that little bit of recognition made me feel special.

There are a few very sensible reasons why the Chronicle stopped publishing comprehensive results some years ago. Timeliness is one: Nowadays, you can follow event scores as the event is still unfolding. Oftentimes, scores even post online before they’ve hit the actual scoreboard at a show. Compiling them, also, is extremely time-consuming, and nowadays there are more events countrywide than ever before. Putting “Weekend Winners” together for EN is a monster cut-and-paste weekly project that takes me as long or longer than any other post I write.

It’s nothing, however, compared to the hundreds or thousands of hours of work that eventers around the country put into the effort of competing in this sport. And you’re not doing it for a $3 ribbon, although success is certainly a measuring stick to keep progress on track. You do it because you love it.

And I cut-and-paste for hours each Monday not for page views, but because I love the idea of some eventer out there seeing their name or photo on EN and feeling a little burst of pride. From EN to each week’s winners, may we extend a heartfelt congrats and a well-deserved moment in the sun.

An extra-special shout-out to Jordan Linstedt and Staccato, who posted the lowest finishing score in the country this weekend! The pair earned a 19.8 to win Open Preliminary at the 42nd Annual Whidbey Island H.T.

And now, for your weekly winners!

Huntington Farm H.T. [Website] [Results]
Open Preliminary: Christina Reiter & Outlier (50.7)
Junior Young Rider Training: Hannah Smith & Bittersweet Aurora (39.4)
Open Training A: Nicole Leikert & All the Above (33.5)
Open Training B: Jane Hamlin & Fernhill Mischief (39.6)
Junior Novice: Maya Zigler & King Dingaling (34.3)
Open Novice A: Andrea Manley & Shadais China Moon (31.2)
Open Novice B: Julie Howard & Isn’t She Sweet (31.7)
Junior Beginner Novice: Isabel Estes & Fernhill Blue Moon (31.7)
Open Beginner Novice A: Sue Levy & Baltic Mahogany (27.8)
Open Beginner Novice B: Kristy Branco & Phair Play (32.2)

Maryland at Loch Moy I H.T. [Website] [Results]
Open Intermediate: Kelli Temple & Metallica (30.5)
Junior Young Riders Open Preliminary: Emma Ayre & Dad Arewethereyet (34.4)
Open Preliminary-A: Kelli Temple & Caleesi (25.7)
Open Preliminary-B: Maya Black & West River (31.7)
Preliminary Rider: Bennett Camp-Crowder & Rosalynd (31.7)
Modified A: Nicholas Hinze & Dakota Blues (36.1)
Modified B: Abigail Lindsay & A Kodak Image (31.1)
Junior Open Training: William Kidwell & Tremolo (27.4)
Open Training-A: Sarah Cousins & Sneaky Rascal (32.9)
Open Training-B: Jan Byyny & Dashwood (30.0)
Training Rider-A: Elizabeth Billings & Calero (31.9)
Training Rider-B: Nicole Wisniewski & Compromise Elsewhere (34.1)
Junior Open Novice-A: Brynn Hershbine & Cadenza Aria (23.4)
Junior Open Novice-B: Amara Underwood & Slim Jim (35.7)
Novice Rider-A: Katelyn Duda & Will You Remember Me (32.4)
Novice Rider-B: Taylor Martin & Stiletto (25.7)
Open Novice-A: Alexandra Peterson & Captain Crunch (31.0)
Open Novice-B: Sarah Whitehead & Proletariat (30.2)
Beginner Novice Rider-A: Jennifer Trautmann & Norman (25.8)
Beginner Novice Rider-B: Annabel Carruthers & Princess Leia (38.6)
Junior Beginner Novice-A: Sadie Phifer & Gusty Day (32.8)
Junior Beginner Novice-B: Georgia Cooley & Gossip Girl (35.3)
Open Beginner Novice-A: Courtney Sendak & Just Once Ide (29.2)
Open Beginner Novice-B: Carla Tussey & Wise Thinking (23.9)

Chattahoochee Hills Summer II H.T. [Website] [Results]
Intermediate Championships: Kerry Torrey & Zumba (44.4)
Open Intermediate: Alexa Ehlers & Amistoso (41.1)
Open Preliminary: Emilie Mudd & Quite Nice 11 (28.9)
Preliminary Championships: Andrew McConnon & Bossinova (29.4)
Preliminary Rider: Liv Levine & Fernhill Fifth Avenue (33.4)
Jr. Training Rider Championships: Caroline Dannemiller & Tops (33.0)
Open Training: Devon Brown & Hickstead (22.4)
Training Championships: Tik Maynard & Stakkato Bronx (28.4)
Sr. Training Rider Championships: Cindy Phillips & 3rd Times The Charm (35.1)
Training Rider-A: Kelly Carter & My Mexico (31.8)
Training Rider-B: Hanna Johnson & Urlanmore Beauty (33.3)
Jr. Novice Rider Championships: Kaitlyn Brittendall & Blyth’s Madeline GS (33.3)
Novice Rider-A: Kennedy Wheeler & Jos Estoico (31.9)
Novice Rider-B: Charlotte Laseter & Born of the Blues (32.9)
Open Novice-A: Lauren Eckardt & Mancini’s Code (30.5)
Open Novice-B: Nicole Hatley & Aspen (23.6)
Open Novice Championships: Julie Richards & Beaulieu’s Cecelia (28.3)
Sr. Novice Rider Championships: Ashley Selembo & Sweet Georgia Brown (32.4)
Open Beginner Novice Championships: Tik Maynard & Santiano (32.3)
Beginner Novice Rider-A: Elizabeth Clymer & Ima Iny Too (36.0)
Beginner Novice Rider-B: Joanna Dunkerton & Perelli (37.3)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider Championships: Devon Tresan & I Am Superman (28.5)
Open Beginner Novice: Alexa Ehlers & Clear Laveer (32.9)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider Championships: Cheryl Benefiel & Treliver Drambuie (29.8)

Twin Rivers Summer H.T. [Website] [Results]
Open Intermediate: Tamra Smith & Mai Baum (31.5)
Open Preliminary: Auburn Excell Brady & BSP Tuxedo (28.0)
Preliminary Rider: Kaylawna Smith & Fleeceworks Ghost (28.7)
Jr. Training Rider: Alexis Concolino & Contigo (30.9)
Open Training: Taren Hoffos & Hi Duty (26.6)
Sr. Training Rider A: Stacia Lloyd & Infinite Jest (36.1)
Sr. Training Rider B: Margaret Crow & Remington III (32.7)
Jr. Novice Rider: Kayla Bierman & Addyson (29.5)
Open Novice: Tamra Smith & Cooley Starstruck (27.1)
Sr. Novice Rider: Angela Cricelli & Sunsprite’s Cali (29.8)
Future Event Horse 3 Year Old: Holger Hoetzel & Terraplane Blues (80.5)
Future Event Horse 4 Year Old: Doretta Wright & Wright Rendition (80.5)
Future Event Horse Yearling: Sarah Gross & Royal Street (77.8)
Young Event Horse 4 Year Old: Tamra Smith & Fleeceworks Quinn (82.6)
Young Event Horse 5 Year Old: Tamra Smith & MB MaiStein (88.5)

42nd Annual Whidbey Island H.T. [Website] [Results]
Open Advanced/Intermediate: Sandra Donnelly & Belshazzar (46.4)
CT-Open Intermediate: Marc Grandia & Campari FFF (31.2)
Open Intermediate: Kerry Groot & Borasco (44.1)
CT-Preliminary-Open: Madelyn Floyd & Clementine (30.5)
Jr/YR Preliminary: Stephanie Miller & Cabrio (32.4)
Open Preliminary: Jordan Linstedt & Staccato (19.8)
Jr/YR Training: Samantha Hollow-Bist & Scout (31.4)
Junior Training: Ella Carpenter & He’s Got Moxie (29.5)
Open Training 1: Karen O’Neal & Danciana (29.5)
Open Training 2: Karen Lounsbery & Stewart (26.6)
Jr/YR Novice: Ava Cox & Inigo Montoya (34.1)
Junior Novice 1: Madelyn Myers & Bare Necessities (29.1)
Junior Novice 2: Kiran D’Souza & ROR Lisbane Finch (26.4)
Open Novice 1: Jenny Holbrook & Alchemist II (23.3)
Open Novice 2: Leonie Padgett & Don Schatzeli (25.9)
Jr/YR Beginner Novice: Laura Roberts & Ellen Gobrightly (24.7)
Junior Beginner Novice: Grace Messmer & Bentley (26.1)
Open Beginner Novice 1: Karen O’Neal & Clooney 14 (28.1)
Open Beginner Novice 2: Chris Gianini & Aliado (34.7)

First place!

A post shared by David D'Souza (@davidds) on

We all know this sport has extreme highs and lows, today I was lucky enough to have it all fall into place, and lucky enough to get to ride two of the most talented horses I’ve ever had in my life ❤️ the redheads were just foot perfect the whole weekend, with Murphy finishing first and wiski finishing second on their dressage scores of 23.6, and 23.3 respectively. I cannot thank @mjaten and the entire Jaten family enough for their ongoing support, and driving me to be better each weekend. Melissa reminds me at each show whether I am at the top or bottom of the leaderboard that the goals are always the same, to keep working on what we are building with this incredibly talented young horse. Thank you so so much for all you do Melissa!! To all of my clients who support me, encourage me, got up early to see me ride at the crack of dawn Saturday, texted me, and put up with my crazy schedule I could not do this without all of you and appreciate each of you very much!! ❤️🖤 #prestigeitalia #olsonstack #eventing #horsetrainer #horseshowlife #holsteiner #eventersofinstagram #hardworkpaysoffs #samshield

A post shared by Jenny (@lodestar_training) on

Powder Basin H.T. [Website] [Results]
Preliminary-Open: Lynnea Woody & Prince Eric (43.1)
Training-Open: Linda Quist & Belle Gambe (29.2)
Junior Novice: Jhett Jenkins & Pedernales Cat (33.1)
Open Novice A: Erin Contino & Handsome Ransom (28.5)
Open Novice B: Anna Weatherford & Thaddaeus (30.7)
Junior Beginner Novice: Hanna Wildin & Happy Dance (30.8)
Open Beginner Novice A: Sabrina Manning & The River (36.8)
Open Beginner Novice B: Anika Bronfman & Sidecar (31.6)
Intro-Open CT: Kirsi Hussa & The Rest of the Story (34.0)

Coconino Summer I H.T. [Website] [Results]
Intermediate: Summer Peterson & Jake the Fish (44.9)
Open Preliminary: Ellie Brown & Ringfort Fighting Chance (31.0)
Open Training: Jeanine Allred & Shabang (27.1)
Training Junior: Lauren Gillis & Under the Spotlight (26.8)
Training Rider: Shannon Bird & Gatsby V (26.1)
Novice Junior: Savannah Carter & Ballustree Dun Believable (24.1)
Novice Rider: Ashley Armijo & Cimbria (30.0)
Open Novice: Rachel Maloney & Empire Bear Bones (28.1)
Beginner Novice Junior: Sophia Hardesty & San Marco (29.8)
Beginner Novice Rider: Jane Worrall & Mystique Knights (26.5)
Open Beginner Novice: Nicholas Madsen & American Style (27.0)
Intro: Jennifer Wooten & Bella (28.6)

Go Eventing!

Tuesday News & Notes from Chillax

By on Jul 10, 2018 12:01 am -

Sara Gumbiner and Polaris. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The story of Sara Gumbiner and Polaris came into the spotlight this spring as they successfully accomplished their first four-star at Kentucky. Their road there was mountains and valleys for years, and it all paid off, but Sara is scrambling to keep ownership of “Larry.” She is asking for anyone willing to support her efforts to keep the ride. You can check out her Go Fund Me page here.

National Holiday: National Piña Colada Day

Events Opening This Week:  Town Hill Farm Horse Trials (CT, A-1) Caber Farm Horse Trial (WA, A-7) Stone Gate Farm H.T. (OH, A-8)Loudoun Hunt Pony Club Fall H.T. (VA, A-2) Shepherd Ranch SYVPC H.T. II (CA, A-6) The Event at Archer (WY, A-9)

Events Closing This Week: Stoneleigh-Burnham Summer H.T (MA, A-1) Hunt Club Farms H.T. (VA, A-2) Horse Park of New Jersey Horse Trials II (NJ, A-2)

Tuesday News: 

Sandra Auffarth announced yesterday that her eventing world champion partner Opgun Louvo will no longer participate in championships. The 16-year-old won gold at the 2014 World Equestrian Games. She added that “Wolle” will compete at Aachen next week. [Horse who won nine medals steps down a level: ‘Championships are exhausting’]

Horse Sport Ireland named their WEG team! Padraig McCarthy with Mr. Chunky, Aoife Clark with Fernhill Adventure, Cathal Daniels with Rioghan Rua. Sarah Ennis with Horseware Stellor Rebound, and Sam Watson Horseware Ardagh Highlight were named to the squad. A special shout out is due for U.S.-based Tim Bourke, who was named first alternate with Luckaun Quality. Congratulations to all! [Irish Eventing Team Named For 2018 WEG]

Waredaca is working to educate competitors on preparation for three-day events. In order to show how horse trials were traditionally used as key training runs for long format events, they’ve introduced the Road to the Three-Day Challenge, which includes four Area II competitions this fall. [Waredaca Classic Three-Day Teams with Area II Organizers to Offer Road to the Three-Day Challenge]

Tuesday Video: 

Which product does Olympic medalist Phillip Dutton trust to keep his horses calm and focused at the biggest events in the world? Chillax. Learn more.

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Monday Video from Tredstep Ireland: Watch Will Coleman’s Winning Ride

By on Jul 9, 2018 5:00 pm -

Winning Ride: Will Coleman and Off The Record

It was a great day for Will Coleman Equestrian at the Brook Ledge Great Meadow International presented by Adequan® CICO3*, finishing the day with 2 horses in the top 5! Here is his double clear cross-country effort aboard Off The Record that gave him the win! #USAEventing

Posted by USEF Network on Sunday, July 8, 2018

Will Coleman gave us a master class across the country yesterday at the Brook Ledge Great Meadow International, presented by Adequan, in The Plains, Virginia. Mike Etherington-Smith’s cross country course touted a track which gave seasoned horses plenty to do, yet was forgiving and confidence-building enough for the younger horses. Time was a huge factor on cross country day, with just five out of forty pairs coming un under time.

Will Coleman and Off The Record was one of those pairs and their double clear ride gave them the win by just 0.1 penalty points over Britain’s Georgie Spence and Halltown Harley. To make it even more impressive, this was only Off The Record’s second ever three-star and third ever Advanced. Watch and learn from Will’s masterful ride!

Ireland Names Team for 2018 World Equestrian Games

By on Jul 9, 2018 2:58 pm -

Sam Watson and Horseware Ardagh Highlight. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Ireland has announced their team for the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games at Tryon. Congratulations to the following horses and riders:

  • Padraig McCarthy and Mr Chunky, owned by Christopher and Sarita Perkins, Huw Lloyd and Lucy Wiegersma
  • Aoife Clark and Fernhill Adventure, owned by Richard Last and Aoife Clark
  • Cathal Daniels and Rioghan Rua, owned by Margaret Kinsella
  • Sarah Ennis and Horseware Stellor Rebound, owned by Horseware Products Ltd., Niki Potterton and Orla Ennis
  • Sam Watson and Horseware Ardagh Highlight, owned by Belinda Keir

Five reserves have also been named in the following order:

  • 1st  Tim Bourke and Luckaun Quality
  • 2nd Patricia Ryan and Dunrath Eclipse
  • 3rd Joseph Murphy and Sportsfield Othello
  • 4th  Ciaran Glynn and November Night
  • 5th  Clare Abbott and Euro Prince

All combinations are required to maintain their current form and soundness to remain on the squad for WEG.

Irish Eventing Team Manager Sally Corscadden commented: “It is very exciting to be travelling with a squad that has achieved competitive individual performances at four-star and championship level. Our job is to progress this into a competitive team result and a qualification for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Our eventing squads have consistently  produced top class results at a broad range of three and four-star internationals this spring, including a podium finish in the Nations Cup at Houghton Hall, and three riders finishing in the top 10 at four-star level.”

“We would like to thank our coaches, the squad members, their owners and supporters for all their hard work behind the scenes. We would also like to thank everyone who supported us at our fundraising demo nights and race and also all our Team Ireland Equestrian sponsors. It is a huge benefit to be able to send the team with the proper training, support and preparations in place to help them to perform to the best of their ability and make Ireland proud.”

Sally also added that the team’s thoughts and prayers remain with Jonty Evans following his fall at Tattersalls: “He is always in our thoughts and we will definitely be wearing green for Jonty.”

[Horse Sport Ireland announce Irish Eventing squad for FEI World Equestrian Games in Tryon, USA]

Aachen CICO3* Entries Reveal Star-Studded Lineup

By on Jul 9, 2018 10:16 am -

Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The star-studded lineup for Aachen CICO3*, which will take place July 19-21 in Germany, boasts the reigning Olympic, World and European Champion horses, plus multiple CCI4* and CCI3* winners.

Aachen is not designated as a Nations Cup on the 2018 series calendar but will still run as a CICO3* team competition. The U.S. team for Aachen will be Will Coleman and OBOS O’Reilly, Buck Davidson and Carlevo, Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo, and Kim Severson and Cooley Cross Border.

Twelve nations have fielded entries for Aachen to give us 42 total combinations. Germany won the team competition last year and come in as heavy favorites again with Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW, Ingrid Klimke and SAP Hale Bob OLD, Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Louvo, and Julia Krajewski and Samourai du Thot. Julia will also ride Bramham CCI3* winner Chipmunk FRH.

Sandra Auffarth announced last week that Opgun Louvo will no longer compete in championships. We will not see him defend his World Championship title at Tryon, but Opgun Louvo is a past winner at Aachen and has never finished lower than fourth place in five completions at the venue.

In addition to the heavy-hitting German team, the Brits also bring forward a strong team led by Burghley winners Oliver Townend and Ballaghmor Class and Nicola Wilson and Bulana, who are coming off a win in the Barbury Castle CIC3*.

New Zealand also brings forward a formidable team with Adelaide winners Clarke Johntstone and Balmoral Sensation, plus Boekelo winners Tim Price and Cekatinka.

Others to watch include Australia’s Chris Burton, who has won Aachen two times previously, with Saumur winner Quality Purdey, and Tim Lips with Bayro, who delivered a strong performance at Luhmühlen for the Netherlands despite a flag penalty call that didn’t go their way.

Last year’s Brahman CCI3* winners Yoshi Oiwa and Calle 44 just won the Nations Cup at Strzegom and are also in with a strong shout for Japan.

Click here to browse all the entries for the Aachen CICO3*. EN will be your boots on the ground for all things Aachen, so keep it locked here for everything you need to know. Go Eventing.

[CHIO Aachen 2018 Entries]