Classic Eventing Nation

Hold Onto Your Butts: Much Ado on the Defender Kentucky CCI5* Cross Country Course

By on Apr 27, 2024 9:27 am -

We always look forward to seeing what Derek di Grazia has brought from his brain to the hallowed grounds of Kentucky Horse Park each spring for the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. This year is no different. Derek typically begins planning (scheming?) for the following year nearly as the preceding year’s event concludes, and the undulating terrain here provides ample opportunity for him test out some new lines and questions each year.

For this year’s cross country, we’ll see the direction of the course reversed in comparison to the past few years. While the 4* and 5* riders will start and finish in the same area of the course, they will run in the opposite direction as last year. This changes the terrain significantly, particularly at the beginning and end of the course. Let’s dive in to a preview of the 5* track. You can view the 5* in fence-by-fence detail here on CrossCountryApp and the 4*-S course here, and I’ll also embed both right below:

CCI5*:

CCI4*:

The first quarter of the course will take riders over a handful of rhythm-establishing fences to get their horses thinking forward, as it typical for most tracks. After the first four fences, the riders will come up on the first combination of the day at fence 5ABC, MARS Sustainability Bay. This is the first opportunity for horses to splash into the water, which will come up several more times on the course, and it’s also the first test of turning, particularly to the right which features heavily on this year’s track.

It’s not the biggest test of turns comparatively, but riders will still want to have their lines dialed as there is a steep hill up to the B element of this question, followed by a big brush corner that will demand accuracy to avoid an early problem. There is an alternative route for riders to choose, but Derek believes most will opt for the straight route here to set the tone for the remainder.

After fence 5 comes the first long stretch of galloping as riders pass from the first field into the old steeplechase field, encountering another single fence at 6 (the beautifully decorated Market Table – shout out to the incredible course builders and decorators who’ve made the track look amazing!). They’ll then come to the second water question, the Cosequin Cove at 7 and 8AB. Fence 7 will require a forward ride as a yawning ditch stands in front of a MIM-pinned upright rail.

A supersized corgi will greet riders as they come to 8A, which features a steep drop into water and the first left-handed turn of the course to a suck-it-in skinny triple bar. This is a relatively inviting question here, again an opportunity for riders to insert a jolt of confidence and accurate thinking as they navigate it. Again, there is an option here if a rider has a runout at the B element, but time becomes a factor if you choose this route.

A big uphill pull awaits as the riders begin to head up toward the infield, encountering the third combination at 10AB, the Walnut Bank, which is a new combination this year. Here you’d better have a good rein on that left shoulder as we now get into some of the serious angles that proliferate the course. A narrow oxer comes before a very keen angle to a brush fence a B on a slight downhill.

“It’s an interesting piece of terrain,” Derek explained. “They have to really jump in over the oxer — it’s a bit of a scope question because they won’t want to be going too quick because right away they’re going to have to make a slight bend to a very angled brush, which they’re really going to have to hold their line to.” There’s a big potential to invite a runout to the left here as the downhill slope of the mound will carry the horse’s momentum in that direction, especially if they have a big shot over the oxer at A.

After this, the horses will power up the rest of the hill and then coast down to the infield, an opportunity to get up on the clock as they approach the notorious fly fence, the ditch brush at 11. Definitely mark this one on your list to snag a video on your phone — it usually elicits some epic jumps!

From there, they’ll head to the beautiful Wofford Rails at 12 before going to the crowd-pleasing Defender Head of the Lake at 13ABCD. This is a very intense line, made more complex by both the water, which serves to slow down the horses as well as lengthen their stride, and the size of the brush corner at the CD element. After dropping in over a rolltop, they’ll hit a skinny brush at B and will need to be on their line to make the short distance to the corner on the way out.

A huge element of cross country is quick thinking and reaction speed. Because of the short distance between elements here, a peck on landing at A or any wavering off the line could spell disaster. Of course, there is an option that will eat up the clock, but riders will have a route to take should they encounter difficulty here.

“There are a few different options, but really if you’re in the hunt and you’re trying to win this event, you’re going to do the direct route,” Derek said. “But you’ve got to be brave here, you’ve go to have a good line and really make sure your horse sees what it’s doing and just keep going. I think it will be interesting because I think some of the options will get used because it’s not always going to go perfect on the day.”

Despite the intricacy of the Head of the Lake, you’re not even halfway done at this point, and much terrain awaits in the next part of the course. Riders will next pull up to the infield, hopping the Blade and Bow Bourbon Table at 14 and then galloping uphill to another new feature for the 5*, the EEI Root Cellar at 15ABC. This bank, which is reminiscent of the Burghley Leaf Pit or the Leaf Pit at Morven Park, has been most recently used on the 4*-S track but now makes an appearance for the headlining division.

I asked James Alliston what went through his mind when he jumped down a bank like this when I ran into him on my tour. He wasn’t very helpful honestly — “Well, just long reins and sit up, I think” — ok, simple enough but I think I’ll leave that job to him. I’d be pulling a Jeff Goldblum and holding onto my butt on the way down, but there’s not much time to recollect as two very skinny brush fences await at the base, and of course they aren’t on a totally straight line either, because why would they be? I’d be marking this one down as a fence to watch if I were you.

After this, it’s another major uphill pull to get to the peak of the course at Pete’s Hollow, fence 16ABC. Again, you’re tasked with turning right, having had plenty of practice to this point on the course, navigating three elements on a rollercoaster of terrain. You will see horses who may have run out of some steam getting up to the hill, which would cause some drive-bys. The Hollow tends to be fairly influential for all of these reasons, so it’s worth trekking up there to see the action for yourself.

Here is a chance for the horses to really take a breath and catch a second or third wind, as you now have a relieving downhill gallop and a nice fly fence at 17 (Mick’s Picnic Table) to get back to focusing ahead of the next water challenge at 18ABC, the Rolex Grand Slam Challenge.

This question again tests the horses’ ability to hold a line and move their feet quickly, and a another big ditch in front of a brush awaits after a sharp left turn at the C element. There’s also much to look at here — there are massive crowds gathered in the infield at any given point in time, and there are also several elements from the 4* track situated here, so focus will be key which can be a challenge if a horse is beginning to tire.

Hopefully your horse has taken a breath at this point because the last big uphill pull — and it’s a long one — comes next. You’ll need to get the engines rumbling to make it over the massive Squirrel Tables at 19, which offer a left and a right option depending on what line the riders want to take at the Normandy Bank at 20 ABC.

Once again, to the right, to the right as the horses will need to jump sharply up the Normandy Bank before coming to an angled house at B and a big open corner at C. The alternate route here is a carousel that will likely get a good amount of use at this point in the course but will eat up more precious seconds.

But after this, you’re going back downhill so you’ll get a big of a boost with two single fences before coming to the coffin complex, which is always incredibly influential and should be even more so this year with how late it comes.

A MIM-pinned upright rail welcomes horses to the Park Question at 23ABCDE. We’ve seen a similar-looking coffin question at Carolina (designed by Ian Stark) this year, but the steeper terrain and the addition of a second sharply angled brush makes this a true 5* question. There is not much time to make the turn from the ditch to the angled brushes at CD and E, and again at this point you will see some horses beginning to tire. The downhill gallop can be useful for catching breath, but a fatigued horse will have trouble sitting back on his hocks and moving his feet quickly to avoid engaging the MIM pin at A, and reaction speed could be slower at this point.

At nine and a half minutes in the course, your strategy will be key here. Any type of wiggle or bobble at A or B will cause trouble for the brushes, so here is where the option could come in and I think you’ll see more than one rider opt for the option right away.

“As a rider, you really have to make sure that you’re really helping your horse here,” Derek said. “The riders have to really make sure that they don’t have an unwanted activation [at A] and then once they jump in, they’ve got to make sure that they help their horses here and they get the right line jumping out. Riders will really have to make sure that they really have all the plans here so they can navigate this combination clean.

You’re almost there! By now riders will be really thinking about home, but it’s by no means a coast from here. The Mighty Moguls at 25ABC are the final combination, once again utilizing the terrain to create opportunities for issues, however the use of logs I feel is quite welcoming to the tiring horses as these types of jumps tend to be more forgiving comparatively. Terrain and turning aside, these fences *should* be fairly straightforward, but again remember you will not be sitting on the same horse you left the start box on at this point.

Two more single fences stand between the riders and the finish, so at this point it’s about getting them home safely and as quickly as possible. It’ll be mostly downhill from the Moguls on, which I really like as I think this will put some wind back into the horses so they can finish well.

Take another look in our preview Reel:

The optimum time for this year’s course is 11 minutes, 15 seconds. It will be a true championship test that will allow the riders to learn much about the effectiveness of their preparation. We wish all riders safe and clear rides tomorrow — it will be a thrilling day of sport and we can’t wait to see you there!

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

‘It’s Like He Likes Horses’: Riders React to Derek di Grazia’s 5* Cross Country Course at Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event

By on Apr 27, 2024 9:00 am -

Flowers and Squirrels and Corgis, Oh My! Photo from CrossCountryApp.

“Endurance, bravery, stamina, scope”; “fair”; “big”; “five-star”; “five-star”; “five-star”…

That’s a Derek di Grazia Kentucky CCI5* course for you.

The riders all seem very keen to get out there and give it a good shot. Hopefully they’ve all had a good look at the actual fences as well as the impressive floral arrangements that they just can’t stop talking about.

The Brits are glad to be on dry ground, and sitting pretty in first and second; the US contingent are snapping at their heels with Liz Halliday and Lauren Nicholson in joint-third place; and the Germans aren’t far behind. There are six nations represented in the top twenty and the scores are so tight that every single stride, step and second is going count as the runners and riders vie to be at the top of the pack going into tomorrow’s finale.

There’s certainly a lot to do out there (and a lot of flowers), and the riders will have to be switched on the whole way ‘round. The Defender Head of the Lake is an immense question at 13ABCD and the coffin complex Park Question at 23ABCDE is really tricky, especially given where it comes up on the course. But really, we could say hard things about every single one of the fences on the 5* track, as almost all of the riders remind us, it’s for sure a 5*.

We’ve wrangled together a fair few of the talented bunch who’ll be tackling the cross country to find out what they thought of the task ahead. But first, some housekeeping:

If you want to see when your favorites will be heading out of the start box, you’ll find the ride times here.

We’ll be bringing you live updates from the 4*-S (from 9am ET / 2pm CEST) and 5* cross country (from 1:30pm ET / 7:30pm CEST), and the finale of the 5* show jumping, as well as daily reports from each stage of the competition, and SO MUCH MORE! Keep it locked onto EN and click here for all the Kentucky content you can handle As if that isn’t enough, we’ve also got loads of great IG content happening courtesy of our team on the ground too @goeventing.

And now, let’s get the riders’ reactions to the 5* cross country at The Best Weekend All Year


EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Tom McEwen – GBR – JL Dublin – 24.6 – 1st

Heading the charge after the first phase, Tom and ‘Dubs’ have put themselves in a great spot going into the cross country. Especially as we know what a great jumper this lovely gelding is. They were runners-up last year – will they hang onto the top spot and take the win this time around? Only time (and fences) will tell, literally.

In his post-test interview for the live stream, Tom was very keen to point out that the flower arrangements out on course are “second to none”, and he’s not the only one to notice the amount of effort that’s gone into making Derek’s course appealing to the eye.

Does he have anything else to say on the matter? Well, yes, but also more on the flowers:

“The course is beautiful. [Derek’s] courses are always incredible – beautifully designed, best flower arrangements by far. It’s pretty epic to look at. But I think it’s a really clever course. It’s not for the faint-hearted – it is a true five-star track. [There’s] open and closed distances and you’ve got to make up your mind and be reactive at the same time.”

He was clearly totally wowed by those flowers – I hope he managed to tear his gaze from them to take a glance at the fences he’s about to gallop at.

Yasmin Ingham – GBR – Banzai du Loir – 26 – 2nd

World champs, and runners-up at Kentucky in 2022, Yas Ingham and Banzai got their Best Weekend All Year off to a fine start with the best test on the opening day of dressage to top the leaderboard overnight. They weren’t quite able to hold off compatriots Tom and Dubs, but they’re not in a bad spot as they head into the cross country.

The first thing Yas noted when we asked her about the course was how beautiful it is out there – shout out to crew and volunteers who’ve dressed the course!

“It looks brilliant. Derek di Grazia does such a brilliant job of designing each year. He’s asking different questions. It’s a really true big five-star track. The the ground is just perfection. The way the course has been dressed is just beautiful. I’m very much looking forward to riding it on Saturday and the presentation is just 10 out of 10.”

In typical British fashion, Yas is keen to talk about the weather. We’ve had another incredibly wet spring (and winter, and fall, and last summer
) over in the UK, so Yas is very much looking forward to galloping across the superb Horse Park ground:
“We’re used to galloping around in the mud at home sometimes, so it’s a treat to be on top of the ground.”

Any big questions she’s pondering as she makes her plans?

“I think there’s questions the whole way throughout the course. We start with the first water at fence five [MARS Sustainability Bay – 5ABC – a hanging log into the water, onto a roll-top and then a brush corner]. Each individual combination is asking a different question. I think [Derek’s] definitely ticked all the boxes of endurance, bravery, stamina, scope. He ticks all the boxes here and obviously, to be galloping around this park is such a treat. [Banzai’s] always run well here in the past, so I’m hoping that I can give him a good ride on Saturday.”

Lauren Nicholson – USA – Vermiculus – 30.6 – 3rd=

Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

What a showing ‘Bug’ gave between the white boards for joint-third place. This seventeen-year-old can still boogie like the best of them!

Lauren’s plan for tomorrow is simple: “Go fast and don’t make any mistakes!”

She’s sitting on the most reliable cross country jumper on the field according to EquiRatings’ stats, and one of the most experienced horses, so it could actually be that simple, couldn’t it?

“It’s a Derek course – it’ll reward good riding. It’s a bit different than what we’re typically used to here. When I was out walking with David [O’Connor], I typically like to do one less everywhere and he’s like, “No, you got to do one more here
 You’ve go to do one more here
”.

It’ll reward riding correctly, riding accurately, taking the time where you need to and then trying to make up time in between. The ground is fast, which will help me I think. He’s not the fastest horse in the world, but we’re longtime partners and I’m really excited to get out there.”

And does she have any worries? “I’m worried that I’m not worried!” she told Frankie Thieriot Stutes in her post-dressage interview.

Nothing to worry about then, it seems, despite facing one of the world’s toughest cross country courses in just a matter of hours. We all need to be a little more Lauren from time to time – you go girl!

Elisabeth Halliday – USA – Cooley Nutcracker – 30.6 – 3rd=

Liz Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Joining Lauren in third place is Liz Halliday, whose stunning gelding ‘Bali’ proved what an exciting young talent he is when he came out in his first 5* with a very impressive test that showed off all of the scope and power that’ll come in very handy out on Derek’s course.

How does she think Bali will take to the top-level questions he’ll face when he heads out of the start box?

“Obviously he’s never done a five-star; he’s only done two four-stars in the US but he’s finished those with plenty of gas. I actually think it’ll be great for him for me to just let him gallop. He has an incredible gallop – he is quite keen ride cross country. I like the beginning of the course for him, there are fences that you can just ride up to which I think will be great to settle him in. He’s incredibly brave, but he’s never done five-star, so we’ll see, but I truly believe he’s ready for it. I like the course this year and I think hopefully he’ll really enjoy me being able to let him go and let him gallop.”

Sharon White – USA – Claus 63 – 30.7 – 5th

Sharon’s no stranger to bringing horses up to the top-level – Claus is the sixth horse she’s produced to 5*. He’s making his debut at the pinnacle of the sport here this weekend, and what a start he’s had. He’s proved he’s up to it in the dressage, now for the best bit of eventing.

In her post-test interview she summed up Derek’s course building to a tee:

“It’s like [Derek] likes horses. It’s challenging but obvious.”

Sounds pretty perfect.

Kirsty Chabert – GBR – Classic VI – 31 – 6th

Kirsty Chabert and Classic VI. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

One of the four British combinations to have made the trip out to Kentucky, Kirsty Chabert is back at the Horse Park for a second go around. What does she make of this year’s track?

“It’s gorgeous. I think the main water [Defender Head of the Lake – 13ABCD] is the obvious one at the moment that sort of gives the appearance that it requires fairly accurate riding. The rest of it is really beautiful – very flowing, very clear to the horses. I’m really looking forward to it.”

In case you’re wondering about the accuracy question at the Head of the Lake – and what an accuracy question it is! – there’s a big drop into the water, then a bending line to a skinny on an angle, followed by a corner on a very, very tight line, which, seriously, I don’t know how they’ll get to. But these are 5* pros we’re talking about, the superheroes of our sport who make all this look like Pony Club. There is an alternative route if needed, but for sure the big guns will be going for it and what a show it’ll be for the thousands of spectators who’re sure to be crowded right up to the tape.

Oliver Townend – GBR – Cooley Rosalent – 31.4 – 8th=

The World No.1 has topped the podium three times at Kentucky. He’s a little further down the order than we expected with this talented mare, but will be gunning for a leaderboard climb and is another Brit who’s noticed it’s not raining and the ground is well, really good.

The best in the world describes course designer Derek as “the best in the world” – sounds like a top match then. What does he think of Derek’s offering this year?

“I think it’s incredible. Five-stars are five-stars, but I’m a huge Derek fan. I think that he has your twisting and turning early on, which means you’re going to be behind your minutes before you’ve even kicked off and got into a rhythm. He tests you all the way to the end.”

He may be a little off the lead as he heads out of the start box, but as we all know, this is



 “definitely not going to be a dressage competition. I think that stamina will have a huge effect even though the ground is incredibly good, good to firm. So we’re on the good ground, but I still think you’ll see a lot of mistakes and a lot of times penalties.”

Just not for him, he hopes.

Calvin Böckmann – GER – The Phantom of the Opera – 31.4 – 8th=

Birthday boy Calvin Böckmann will be hoping his 24th is one to remember. Personally I enjoy a drink or four on my special day, but Calvin’s mounting up and launching himself ‘round one of the toughest cross country courses in the world on his. As you do.

History tells us it’s not actually a bad idea if you’re an eventer. Michael Jung took the Tokyo lead in the dressage on his birthday, Swiss eventer Felix Vogg won Luhmuhlen the day he turned thirty-two and Kitty King celebrated her day with a second place finish at the German 5*. Blow out those candles and make a wish Calvin.

What does he think of the course? Has Derek delivered up a gift?

“Everything is quite clear for the horses and for the riders. I think the course designer did an amazing job, because here and there, you can always choose if you want to take one stride more one stride less, so I think it is really, really fair. But you always need to be focused – every jump you really need to be there and be 100% focused, so I think that’s going to be very interesting.”

Hannah Sue Hollberg – USA – Capitol H I M – 33 – 12th

Hannah Sue Hollberg and Capitol H I M. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Hannah Sue’s here in hot form with ‘Chito’ after finishing 4th at Maryland last fall and then coming out with a win at Bouckaert Farm this season. She made her 5* debut at Kentucky in 2007 with a horse she’d found in the classified ads when she was thirteen, and has returned a number of times since then. What does she think of the course this year?

“It looks hard
 harder. I feel like Derek’s courses normally walk in a way where you’re like, ‘Where’s the trick here?’ because it walks kind of okay. I don’t feel like this walks that great. He’s done a great job, but it looks harder than I normally walk his courses at this level. But that’s good for me because I need to take it very seriously.”

Any bits more serious than others?

“I think the beginning is really twisty and then it gets kind of up and down the hills, wearing them out a bit. Then that coffin is way harder [The Park Question at 23ABCDE – she’s right, it looks incredibly hard!]. I’ve got to ride every literal stride. But I’m excited. I love this horse very much, and I love his owner and Ms. Mars, her mother, and it’s just a really special thing for me to be able to be here on him.”

Phillip Dutton – USA – Quasi Cool – 33.8 – 13th= / Azure – 37.4 – 21st

Phillip Dutton and Quasi Cool. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

There’s a dad and daughter race going on over in the 4*-S between Phillip and Olivia, but what does he think of the 5*? Basically, it’s exactly what he expected it to be:

“It looks, as we expected – big and scopey, and it’s going to test all the training that we needed to have done. It’s an endurance test. You got to have a speedy horse, you got to have a scopey horse, you got to have an adjustable horse – all of what we expect when we come here.”

Christoph Wahler – GER – D’Accord FRH – 34 – 15th

Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Christoph’s been on the 5* podium over in Germany, but what does he make of how things go down Stateside?

“It’s difficult, it’s big enough. It walks like a real five-star track. You have to be very, very smart and sort of intelligent as a rider in the beginning – just give [your horse] a good feeling, get him into the course, because it twists a little bit and turns and you just want to get into a good rhythm and give him a nice confident feeling about what’s to come. And then the course opens up a little bit more and gets more galloping. That’s probably going to suit [D’Accord] a little bit more. There are tough questions all the way around. [The horses] have to be fit and they have to be willing to jump everything that we put them in front of.”

Sara Kozumplik – USA – Rock Phantom – 35.3 – 16th

Sara Kozumplik and Rock Phantom. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

She’ll be our trailblazer and give us our first proper look at the course with her 5* first-timer ‘Rocky’. But will she be looking at the fences or the flowers? Sara’s another rider to notice the aesthetics of the course (hopefully, also the fences):

“It’s absolutely beautiful. Derek di Grazia is one of my favorite course designers, and he always does a very good job. The builders here are unreal as well – everything looks amazing.”

Did she notice anything other than the decor (delightful as it may be)? Thankfully, yes:

“The ground is absolutely top notch this year, we’re very lucky. It’s a five-star. Derek’s courses, historically, somebody might think something looks like it might might be fairly straightforward, but it rarely is. He rewards positive riding and, fingers crossed, he gives us quite a few options if things don’t go quite to plan or if you’re on a greener horse – I think we’re very lucky that way.

Ema Klugman – AUS – Bronte Beach – 36.6 – 18th

Law student, eventer, superwoman, Ema Klugman is obviously the studious type having recently passed the bar – has she applied herself as keenly to her course walk? Um, absolutely.

How many times do you plan on walking the course, Ema?

“300!”

OK then.

And her three hundred thoughts on it?

“I think that it’s very well built. I think it’s quite big. Obviously, coming here, you wouldn’t think it would be small. I think that not any one combination stands out as being extremely technical or hard or big or anything, but the accumulative impact of the course is going to really be the challenge, for everybody, but certainly for me and my horse. There’s nothing out there she’s never jumped – she’s done variations of all of those questions for years and years, and she’s done them well, but putting them all together in eleven and a half minutes is a big question, so I’m hoping that I’m very accurate and brave and I give her a good ride.”

Bruce Davidson Jr – USA – Sorocaima – 37 – 20th

Buck Davidson and Sorocaima. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Buck Davidson is no stranger to Kentucky Horse Park, it’s been a part of his life forever. As a toddler he watched his dad triumph at the event, and now, each time he rolls up to compete here himself, he’s greeted by the famous bronze statue of Bruce Davidson Sr and Eagle Lion in that most iconic of eventing poses – hailing a cab.

The course at Kentucky is as bold and beautiful as ever, but there are some changes. And Buck’s in favor:

“I think it’s an amazing course, it’s the best one I’ve seen here. I think the last few years it hasn’t flowed that well and I didn’t think it was really that nice to ride. I think [this year] it flows really well. There’s not so many ABCDEF [combinations], there’s no U-turns and so the horses will be thinking forward – when they’re thinking forward, they’re going to jump better. I’m looking forward to it.”

One big change is that the course is running in the opposite direction, meaning the terrain will come into play in a new way. Buck’s sat on a Thoroughbred who was incredibly successful over his racing career, winning over $80,000. How does Buck think this new track will suit his speedy guy?

“It feels like there’s more uphill, but it feels like there’s more galloping as well. It’s all about what you’re sat on right? I’m on a Thoroughbred horse that can gallop and so I love it. [Derek’s] done a great job. The way he make you slow down on your lines is genius. If you were going to go a minute and a half slow, it would probably be pretty easy to pick your way through this, but to try to go really fast, mistakes are out there for sure.”

Andrew McConnon – USA – Ferrie’s Cello – 37.7 – 22nd / Wakita 54 – 41.5 – 33rd

Andrew McConnon and Wakita 54. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Andrew’s another rider with his eye drawn to the spring flowers. He’s also very appreciative of the volunteers – and the media – and for that Andrew, we thank you. Here’s what he actually said:

“The cross country looks great. It’s beautifully presented – it’s decorated really well. The volunteers do an incredible job. We couldn’t do it without everybody here – and the media like you guys. [The course] should suit the horses quite well. Everything’s there to be jumped and I’m looking forward to having to go.”

Doug Payne – USA – Camarillo – 38 – 23rd / Quantum Leap – 39.9 – 29th

Doug’s got two rides in the 5* – one super experienced top-level campaigner and third place finisher here in 2022, and one debutant at the top level. What’s his plan?
“[With] Quantum I’m just going to take a shot everywhere. It’s direct. As fast as I can get it. With him, I’m probably going to go out 80 percent fast early, and then sort of gauge what we’ve got. I’ll probably go wide at the coffin [The Park Question at 23ABCDE] – I don’t think it’s a huge time waster, and it’s absolutely a ton safer. I guess you’re just going to react on the day, if something weird happens, you’ve got to always have your plan B and C and D ready. I think he’s more than capable of doing it.”

And what does he think of the course?

“It’s pretty typical of what [Derek] presents for the horses. I think it’s super fair – everything’s laid out, no traps or tricks or anything. There’s a lot of opportunity to make mistakes – it’s one of those deals. Individually it’s all very doable, and it’s just a matter of getting it done in its entirety.

Ariel Grald – USA – Leamore Master Plan – 38.2 – 24th

Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan. Photo by Tilly Berendt.


We have a number of Derek fans in the field, and Ariel’s for sure one of them, hailing him as a “genius”:

“It looks amazing. As always, Derek, sets a brilliant track. There’s plenty to do out there, all the way through the course. I just think he’s so genius in how he uses the terrain and changes up all the questions and he really asks everything of you and the horse. It’s going to be a proper test.”

Rebecca Braitling – AUS – Caravaggio II – 39.3 – 28th

Bec Braitling and Caravaggio II. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Rookie combination Bec Braitling and Ernie have a long, hard wait ahead of them, going so late in the day.

This is what she said about the course:

“It’s pretty big. Big and long. Looks hard.”

And there you have it, straight from the horses’ mouths, so to speak.
With that, let’s go eventing!

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Eyes On: The Start Box Beckons – It’s Cross Country Day at Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event! – Live Blog from the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S.

By on Apr 27, 2024 8:58 am -

Ready and waiting. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Welcome to the weekend ENers, and not just any old weekend – officially The Best Weekend All Year. It’s cross country day at Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event and we’re bringing you not one but two live blogs from the Horse Park. That’s right, snacks at the ready and settle in for all the action from the 4*-S and 5* cross country. Responsible human things to do? Well we’re giving you full permission to put eventing at the top of your to do list today (and every day if, like us, you’re so inclined).

We’ll see 57 competitors out on course today, with representatives for the USA, Canada, Brazil and Great Britain, and let me tell you, this competition is stacked. With Olympic selection imminent, this is the place to be for hopefuls showcasing their bid to be part of the elite team headed to Paris.

We’ve got eight of the top 10 riders on the USEA leaderboard, including three rides for Liz Halliday; plus World No. 3 Boyd Martin, who has two rides, and Will Coleman, who’ll also be having two turns around the Horse Park this morning; there’s a dad and daughter combo in Phillip and Olivia Dutton; the reigning Pan-Ams gold medalists Caroline Pamukcu and HSS Blake are here – Caroline will be heading out of the start box three times – and team-mate and individual bronze medalist Lindsay Traisnel comes forward with her Santiago mount Bacyrouge; recent Road to the Horse winner Tik Maynard is back in English tack and in the mix; and last year’s 5* champ Tamie Smith will finish things up for us as the last to go. Seriously, we’ve got a formidable afternoon of competition on our hands. Bring it on!

Click here to view the 4*-S cross country course.

Before we get down to business, here’s a brief look at what’s been going down in the 4* competition thus far:

1ïžâƒŁ We’ve got joint-leaders as we head out on course today – Liz Halliday and Miks Master C for the USA and Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri for Great Britain, who both delivered super smart tests for a score of 26 – Liz goes at 11:42am ET / 5:42pm CEST and Lucienne will leave the start box at 10:48am ET / 4:48pm CEST.

3ïžâƒŁ Just 1.3 points behind, in third is Caroline Pamukcu and HHS Blake for the USA who also delivered the goods in the first phase for a score of 27.3 – they’ll get underway at 11:45am ET / 5:45am CEST.

4ïžâƒŁ In fourth place after the dressage is the USA’s Boyd Martin and Commando 3 who are on a score of 28.9 – they’ll be heading out at at 10:27am ET / 4:27pm CEST.

5ïžâƒŁ Rounding out the top 5 is one of Liz Halliday’s other rides (she’s got three), Cooley Quicksilver, who posted a score of 29.2 – they’ll be heading out at at 10:39am ET / 4:39pm CEST.

The scores are tight right the way through the field so every second counts out on cross country today – see the full list here. If you’re in need of more 4* news, we’ve got you covered – you’ll find our full round-up right here.

Flying the Maple Leaf and first out of the start box today will be Jessica Phoenix and Fluorescent Adolescent who are currently on a score of 37.5. They’ll get us underway at 9am ET / 3pm CEST.

If you want to follow along with the form this afternoon, check out EN’s 4* Form Guide, which you’ll find right here.

I’ll be here for every single round, fingers frantically clattering across my keyboard, bringing you every second of the action live throughout the day. Keep this page refreshed and enjoy the ride. If you’re catching up on this later, scroll âŹ‡ïž and read âŹ†ïž.

If you just can’t get enough Kentucky, here are the links you need to to catch up with the 5* competition:
Round-up Reports – [Dressage Day One] [Dressage Day Two]
Live Blogs – [Dressage Day One] [Dressage Day Two]

And if you’re still hankering for more, you’ll find all of our content from The Best Weekend All Year right here. If you’re up for EVEN MORE – you know you are! – we’ve got loads of great IG content happening courtesy of our team on the ground too @goeventing.

Settle in for an afternoon of awesomeness eventing nerds, and go eventing!

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

11:59am
Wow! Just wow! Here’s a quick re-cap before I sign off to go and down a gallon of Gatorade before the 5* starts:

1ïžâƒŁ Leading the 4*-S are Liz Halliday and Miks Master C who delivered the goods out on course and take the top spot as they head into the final phase on a score of 29.2.
2ïžâƒŁ 0.7 behind are Will Coleman and Diabolo on 29.9.
3ïžâƒŁ And rounding out the top three as things stand we have Boyd Martin and Commando 3 on 30.1.

Again, apologies for those scores I just couldn’t keep up with – they were coming fast and furious! Here’s where you’ll find every 4* competitor’s score.

Eyes on for our round-up of all of today’s 4* action – coming soon. Until then, click here for all the Kentucky content you can handle.

I’ll be back in a bit with live updates from the 5* cross country – set your reminders for 1:30pm ET / 7:30pm CSET – don’t miss it!

11:53am
Last year’s 5* champ Tamra Smith is out on course with Kynan. This 9-year-old came out this season with a clear XC jumping round after finishing up last season on a bit of a blip. Prior to that, he was clear all the way. Fingers crossed he’s well and truly back to his clear round form. They’re sitting on a score of 31.7. Caroline is through the final water, so quick, and on her way towards home. Tamie’s having to work really hard but she is making this happen. They do a great job through the influential combination at 6 and then Tamie guides Kynan through the water at 9ABC, turning in the air as they go. Caroline’s through the finish after a great round. Liz added 3.2 time and Caroline 4.8. That means Liz is in 1st, Will Coleman’s 2nd and Boyd’s 3rd. Caroline’s in 6th. OH NO! Tamie’s off. They’d been looking really good but come unstuck at the first angled cabin at 15. She’s back up on her feet and goes over to give Kynan a pat. Bad luck for her.

11:48am
Pan-Ams individual gold and team silver winners Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake are off and running. They were clear inside the time at Santiago, and delivered another speedy clear in the 4*-S at Carolina last month to finish second. Eyes on this one! They’re sitting on a score of 27.3, in third place after the dressage. What a treat to have Caroline and Liz out on course at the same time – and exciting in terms of the leaderboard. Liz is having her arms pulled out, Miks Master C is really, really strong. She’s masterful as she comes into the final water, making him wait. There’s a little slip on the turn on the way out, but he gets his feet underneath him and is happy to gallop on out and towards home. Liz is getting it done. Caroline’s clear through the Defender Sunken Road at 13ABC. This is such an exciting combination – Blake’s so nippy and quick and they are flying.

11:45am
No. 3 on the USEA leaderboard and eventing’s favorite racing driver, Elisabeth Halliday has sped out of the start box with Miks Master C. They were individually 7th at the Pan-Ams in Santiago last season, where they took team silver for the US, and were 3rd in the 5* here at Kentucky. They won the 4*-S at Carolina last month where they finished on their dressage. Eyes on this one – they’re EquiRatings’ favorite for the win! They’re sitting on a score of 26 which put them joint first coming into today. Further out on course Jessie’s clear through the second water at 9. Boyd and Fedarman B are through the finish – they’ve added just 0.8 and slide into 2nd. Liz absolutely flies over the stick pile before the Park Question at 6 – that tricky coffin – she sees her stride and does a beautiful job through there. Miks Master C looks super fit and he has a bit of a conversation with Liz at the table before the second water. Lis is having to wrangle him a little, he looks very strong. They shuffle a little through 9ABC but Liz knows how to handle anything.

11:42am
Canada’s Jessica Phoenix makes her way out on course for the third time today. She’s riding Freedom GS this time around. They come here off the back of a 2nd place at TerraNova, where they delivered a speedy clear. More of the same please! They’re sitting on a score of 34.6. They get a great shot into the first water at 4 and are just where they need to be at the corner coming out. Meanwhile, Boyd and Bruno are on fire! It’s not hard to see why Bruno’s ranked as the fastest horse in the field. They’re clear through the final water and running for home.

11:39am
World No. 3 and USEA leaderboard No. 2 Boyd Martin joins us once more on course, this time with Fedarman B. We’ll see Boyd going in the 5* later on today. This pair were 8th at Pau 5* and 8th at Luhmuhlen last season. Boyd rides this lovely gelding in memory of Ann Goodwin, who rode ‘Bruno’ round the 4* here in 2021 and finished 6th. They’re sitting on a score of 31.7. Wow, Bruno flies over the corner at the B element of the first water at 4! He looks a real picture as he takes on this course. There’s a huge cheer as they make it through the coffin complex that’s been causing trouble all day. They’re really quick as they make their way around. They come up to the Rolex Grand Slam Challenge Water and Boyd has to make a little adjustment to make sure he gets the spot he wants. They turn in the air as they sweep through there – masterful riding on display.

11:37am
Jen Moody and Eye Of The Storm are off and running. They retired out on cross country in their last run, so fingers crossed for them to gallop through the finish flags today. They’re sitting on a score of 42.9. Eye of the Storm has an interesting way of going – he has his nose right up in the air. They make it work though. They’re clear up to the combination at 6 but are another pair to fall foul of the D element and pick up a 20. Meanwhile, Savannah’s through the finish, and so is Arden.

11:34am
Arden Wildasin and Sunday Times have left the start box. This 17-year-old jumped clear around the 4*-S at Carolina last month, adding just 0.8 of a time penalty and finishing in 15th place. Eyes on this one for – hopefully – another speedy clear. They’re sitting on a score of 47.9. Wow, they’ve set off quickly! She punches the air as she completes the combination at 6 – good for her! That was bold riding and it really paid off. Savannah’s through the angled cabins at 15 and 16 and has a great ride through the Cosequin Cove water.

11:30am
Savannah Fulton and Cash Point have joined us on course. This 9-year-old has 9 FEI competitions on his record, and 9 clears. Here’s to number 10 today! They’re sitting on a score of 39.2. They get a great shot into the first water at 4 and take the slightly longer route. They’re clear and galloping on. Mary Bess is at the final water at 17AB. Imperio Magic’s looking a little bit tired but he’s jumping really well. Mary Bess has gone him up in front of her leg and she gives him a nice pat as they gallop up the hill and towards home. Savannah’s now at the water at 9ABC. She’s pitched a little forward as they drop down into the water but she sits up and they make it through there really well.

11:28am
Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic have left the start box. They had a 20 in their first run this season, but had 13 clears running up to that. Hopefully they’ve put it behind them and are back on their clear round form. They’re sitting on a score of 35.1. They drop into the water at 4 and have a little stutter step before the corner on the way out of the combination but they get it done. They head into the super influential combination at 6 and Mary Bess had to work hard, but Imperio Magic stays with her and he wiggles his way through. Great work! Alexa is out at the final water at 17AB. There have been conversations between this pair throughout their round, which will have eaten into the time, but they’re nearing home now.

11:25am
Alexa Thompson and Just To Be Clear have joined us on course. Alexa made her debut at the level last season while she was based with France’s Maxime Livio – she finished 7th, beating out Michael Jung – what a cool result for her! They have 8 FEI competitions on their card and 8 XC clears – here’s to number 9! They’re sitting on a score of 37.9. Meanwhile, Sam Tinney gets pitched forward over the brush into the water at 9, but she sits up and gets the job done. Alexa’s also pitched forward as she drops into the water at 4. She also sits up and they carry on through. Wow, she means business through the coffin complex at 6 and they’re clear through there. Oh no! Sam’s gone out the side door at the Defender Sunken Road at 13ABC. She’s back up on her feet and giving her horse a pat and a hug.

11:22am
Samantha Tinney and Cutty Sark have got their Kentucky XC underway. They retired out on cross country in their last two runs last season, so fingers crossed for them to get a good completion under their girth today. They’re sitting on a score of 39.6. Cassie is now out on the back loop, tackling the Mighty Moguls, which we haven’t seen on the live stream. Sam takes the long route at the first water, banking a bit of confidence for later perhaps. She comes up to the coffin complex at 6 and gets a good shot in. All good over the ditch but then Cutty Sark doesn’t really lock on after the cabin and they’re another one run past the angled brush.

11:18am
Cassie Sanger and Fernhill Zoro are out on course. They clocked up the air miles last season, competing not only in the US and Canada, but making the trip to Europe for Boekelo in the Netherlands and Strzegom in Poland. They were clear at Boekelo adding just 4.4 time, and clear in the 4*-S at Carolina, again adding just 4.4 time. They’re sitting on a score of 35.4. They have a good ride through the water at 4, Cassie’s such a patient rider, letting her horse to see what’s out there and then making it happen. They’re brilliant through the coffin complex at 6 – no doubt about that one. Zoro is so focused and looking for the flags and seems to be really enjoying his cross country. They’re the only ones on course right now.

11:15am
Also going in the 5* later on today, Hannah Sue Hollberg has joined us on course with Carsonstown. They were clear XC jumping in their last 4*-S run at the end of last season, but withdrew before XC on their first outing this year. They’re sitting on a score of 31.2. Oh no! They part company at the coffin complex – a total bummer. They had it, they were making it happen, but Hannah’s popped out the side door. That’s so disappointing for her. She’s on her feet and looks to be fine. Meanwhile, Lyndsay is at the Trakehners and Corners at 19AB – we haven’t seen much of this fence. She tips the flag at the corner but that’s no problem.

11:11am
Part of Canada’s team gold at the Pan-Ams, as well as bringing home individual bronze Lyndsay Traisnel and Bacyrouge are now out on course. They were clear inside the time in Santiago, and clear here 12 months ago to finish 17th. They’re sitting on a score of 36.9. They have a bit of a conversation at the first combination on course – the MARS Sustainability Bay water. But they pick their way through. Meanwhile, Tik is over the Lucky Horseshoe and through the finish. Oh no! Lindsay’s had a 20 at the coffin complex. She tried to keep Bacyrouge on the line but doesn’t make it. They come back round and carry on. Ah, disappointment for Mia and Cashmere at the A element of 17 – the dog on the slope. They seemed to lose impulsion as they came into the fence and come to a stop. Mia puts her hand up and calls it a day.

11:08am
Mia Braundel and Cashmere have got their Kentucky round underway. This 17-year-old gelding delivered a steady clear across the country last year and finished in 31st. They’re sitting on a score of 39.4. Tik clears the Rolex Grand Slam Challenge, having to use all his skill but his horse is taking him forwards and they look to be a real team. Ryan is clear over the last and has picked up just 2.4 time penalties. Apologies for not keeping up with the scores – things are moving super quick. We’ll make sure you’ve got all the info you need at the end, don’t worry! Mia sails over the big table at 8 and comes into the second water at 9ABC. She gives her horse a beautiful ride and gets a great shot through there – they made that combination look easy.

11:05am
Flying the flag for Canada, recent Road to the Horse champion Tik Maynard is back in the English tack and away with SKM Lux Sonata. In 11 FEI runs with Tik, this gelding has just one 11 penalties on his card, for a frangible device, which happened in his last run. They’ll be back to the zeros today hopefully. They’re sitting on a score of 45.4. Tik really is a beautiful cross country rider. There’s a bit of a conversation going into the water at 4, and then again coming out over the B element. Tik pushes forward but it’ll be interesting to see what decisions he makes at the coffin complex. Oh! It so looked like he’d got it but no – more penalties dished out at the D element of 6. Ryan is having a superb round – he’s flying along the track. They look so impressive. They’re clear through the final water and nearing home.

11:02am
Aussie eventer Ryan Wood is underway with Cooley Flight. Ryan and Cooley Flight were 19th here last year, delivering a clear XC jumping round. In fact, in 13 FEI competitions, there are zero XC jumping penalties on their card. They’re sitting on a score of 35. Sydney is through the finish flags with a huge smile on her face, it really looks like she had a lot of fun out there. Another combination who look to be having a great time is Rachel and High Tide – they’re through the sunken road at 13ABC. What a great sight to see a Thoroughbred galloping across the ground at Kentucky. Ryan is just coming to the second water at 9ABC. They’re clear through there and looking good.

10:59am
Rachel Lawson and High Tide are out on course. When she’s not eventing, Rachel helps ex-racehorses find new careers once they’ve finished on the track, a passion inspired by OTTB High Tide. They came out this season with a speedy clear across the country – more of the same please! They’re sitting on a score of 46.8. Sydney has a great ride through the sunken road at 13ABC, this pair are wasting no time at all. Lucienne has cleared the Lucky Horseshoe finale and is through the finish flags. Sydney is also making her way home now – she’s through the final water without even seeing the Dachshund she was so quick through there. This has been a great round. Rachel and High Tide look like they’re having a blast. They have an enormous jump into the water at 9ABC and are super quick through there.

10:56am
Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire have left the start box. Part of the Pan-Ams team silver medal for the US in Santiago last season, where they finished 8th individually, they also have a top 10 finish in the Kentucky 5*, and a 3rd place in the 4* under their girth. They’re sitting on a score of 35. They’re clear over the first 5 and come to the 6th. Sydney does a great job and QC Diamantaire is just looking for the flags. No problems there for this pair. He’s got a great expression on his face as he gallops towards the second water at 9. She’s giving us a riding lesson. Lucienne is having to work quite hard but she’s coming close to the end of the course now.

10:53am
Back for another go around, British rider Lucienne Bellissimo is with us once more, this time riding Dyri. This pair are on a run of 8 consecutive clear cross jumping cross country rounds – will they make it 9? They’re sitting on a score of 26 after storming to the top of the leaderboard in yesterday’s dressage. They go out meaning business but here’s fence 6, where she had problems earlier with her first ride – it looked to be coming together for them, but right at the last second, the extreme angle on that final brush is just too much and it’s a 20 for them, and a drop down the leaderboard. Such a shame for them. They continue on.

10:51am
Alexandra Baugh and Hubert Des 3 Arbres have joined us out on course. They come here off the back of a win in the 3*-S at Stable View where they very nearly finished on their dressage, adding just 0.4 of a time penalty in the XC. They’re sitting on a score of 34.9. We don’t see the start of the round but we do see them having a stop at 6A. It’s really well recovered though as they come round and make their way through. They have more problems at 8 and opt to retire.

10:48am
Eventer and mustang trainer, Elisa Wallace is away from the start box with 2022 USEF CCI3*-L National Champion Renkum Corsair. They had a fall out on XC here last year so fingers crossed that’s put well and truly behind them and they fly through the finish flags this time around. They’re sitting on a score of 35.2. Oh! Monster has a little stumble on landing as he clears the double brush at the Defender Sunken Road but Liz is super balanced and they make it through unscathed. Oh no! Elisa’s had a 20 at the coffin complex at 6. That’s such a shame for them. That fence has caught so many combinations out today. And then there’s more trouble at the brush into the water at 9ABC. She decides to call it a day. Meanwhile, Liz is through the finish, they don’t quite catch the time – 3.6 penalties.

10:43am
They won this class in 2022, Elisabeth Halliday and Cooley Quicksilver are being counted down! They’re here off the back of three clear XC jumping rounds, and have three 5* completions on their card. She’s in the lead on her other ride, Miks Master C, and in 5th with this guy on a score of 29.2. The starter yells, “Have a great time!” as they fly out of the box. ‘Monster’ looks keen over the log as they drop into the first water and take the straight route. Caroline is over the last clear. Meanwhile, Monster has a little look into the ditch at the coffin complex, but Liz kicks on and they squirrel their way through clear. Great riding on display. We’re hearing that Dani and Jos Bravio are nearing the finish – so sorry that we’ve not seen more of them on the livestream. We do get to see them flying the table at 21 and they look to have had a good round.

10:40am
Dani Sussman and Jos Bravio have left the start box. They withdrew after XC last year after picking up 60 penalties out on course – fingers crossed for them to put that firmly in the past here today. They’re sitting on a score of 33.5. Caroline skips through the sunken road at 13ABC making this incredibly difficult track look really very easy. Meanwhile, Hanna Bundy has crossed the finish. Dani’s clear through to the second water at 9.

10:35am
Canada’s Hanna Bundy and Lovely Assistant have now joined us out on course. They were 21st here last year and delivered a clear round across the country with a handful of time penalties. They’re sitting on a score of 38.5. They’re super over the angled cabins at 15 and 16 and then fast as you like through the Cosequin Cove water. They fly on towards the finish. It looks as though Hanna’s had a 20 at 6, although we didn’t see it on screen.

10:33am
No.2 on the USEA leaderboard and No. 3 in the world Boyd Martin has left the start box with Commando 3. This pair come here in hot form on a run of 3 consecutive wins. Eyes on this one for a speedy clear across the country – in 24 FEI competitions the mare has just one XC jumping penalty on her record, in a 2* back in 2020 with former rider Louise Romeike. They’re sitting on a score of 28.9. They led the dressage overnight on Thursday, but were pipped to the podium placings yesterday and go out today in 4th place. They get a great shot through the first combination – the water at 4 – and Boyd really gives us a lesson in how to ride the coffin complex – he wasn’t having a mistake there, for sure. Will’s absolutely flying as he comes through the final water at 17AB. He’s homeward bound now. Meanwhile, Boyd is up at the second water, he sees his line to the skinny triple brush and is straight as anything through there. Will is almost home, he’s going for it and looks like he’s going to be close to the time. He’s smiling as he jumps the Lucky Horseshoe. The leaderboard says he’s spot on the time. First double clear on the day. Wow! What a lesson in cross country riding he’s given us.

10:39am
Pan-Ams gold medalist Caroline Pamukcu is back out on course, this time with 9-year-old King’s Especiale. They had a 20 on their first run this season but put that right at TerraNova last month. She’s in 3rd with her Pan-Ams ride HHS Blake and just outside the top 10 in 11th with this one, sitting on a score of 31.5. Meanwhile, Boyd is through the finish just over the time. He slips into second behind Will and Diabolo. Caroline is golden through the combination at 6 – smooth and pro and just so, so good. They look to be meaning business as they eat up this track. They’re coming down to the Rolex Grand Slam Challenge water and have a huge shot down over the brush – Caroline sits back and steers for the narrow triple brush at B and then off over the brush corner at C. Wow, she’s fast and fierce out there!

10:29am
Will Coleman and new ride, Aussie import Diabolo are off and running! Since landing in Will’s barn this gelding has had four FEI completions, all speedy clears across the country. They’re sitting on a score of 29.9, in 6th place. They get a great shot into the water at 4 but there’s a little hesitation at the corner at B – so far today that’s been an indication of troubles to come at the Park Question at 6. But not so for Will – they’re textbook through the incredibly tricky coffin complex. Pure class. He flies down the drop into the second water and gives Diabolo a great ride through that combination. Class riding on show.

10:26am
US-based Brit, Olympic individual gold medalist in Athens 2004, and coach for the USEF Development Program Leslie Law is out on course with Lady Chatterley. They’re on a run of 14 consecutive cross country clears – here’s to number 15! They’re sitting on a score of 31.6. They’re another combination to have a bit of a sticky jump going into the water at 4. He makes it happen but then they have troubles at the Park Question – the clue’s in the name, it’s a real question, and so early on the track. Leslie decides to call it a day. Meanwhile Jessie’s through the finish and Colleen is nearing the end of her round.

10:23am
Another rider flying the Maple Leaf, Colleen Loach has started her round with Pan-Ams team gold partner FE Golden Eye. This pair were individually 6th in Santiago. They were 28th here last year after picking up a 20 out on course, and have a couple of 20s on their card this season. Fingers crossed for some clear round form heading their way. They’re sitting on a score of 31.9. Jessie is yelling “C’mon!” as she continues to fly her way over the fences. She’s clear through the second water. Oh no! More troubles at fence 6 – this time for Colleen. They come back round and carry on. Man, that line must be so tricky.

10:20am
This morning’s trailblazer, Canada’s Jessica Phoenix is back with us, this time with Watson GS. They jumped clear here last year and finished up in 18th place. They’re sitting on a score of 32. Jessie is already at the first water, which she’s through with no problems. Lisa Barry has crossed the finish. Oh wow, Jessie uses all of her experience at 6! She pulls Watson round and points him in the right direction. Goodness, she made that happen. She’s grinning as she gallops away, but that was a moment, for sure. Julie is up towards the end of the course now in what seems to have been a good round. Their confidence grew as they went and they make it through the finish.

10:17am
Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy have got their round underway. They’re here on the back of two clear cross country rounds already this season. They’re sitting on a score of 37.7. Olivia is at the final fence and she’s grinning as she flies over the Lucky Horseshoe. What a totally class round she’s just delivered. Lisa is continuing to make her way round this tricky course and is through the sunken road at 13ABC. Meanwhile, Julie is clear through the coffin – good for her.

10:12am
Lisa Barry and Rosie’s Aventadora have left the start box. This combination were 6th in the 3*-S here at the Horse Park last fall. They’ve come out with a clear round this season in the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm. They’re sitting on a score of 33.8. Out on course, Olivia makes a superb job of the combination at 6. There’s a huge cheer for her efforts there. She loses her stirrup but gets it back real quick. They’re textbook through the Rolex Grand Slam Challenge water at 9ABC. Really smooth and total pros. She’s really riding brilliantly. Lisa takes the option at 4AB, like most riders have – it’s a little sticky but they make it over and are on their way. Ah, they run into trouble at fence 6 though. It was sticky from the start really, and the horse just didn’t lock on at the final element. They come back though and carry on. Further round the course, Olivia is through the Cosequin Cove water and is on the final leg of the track. She’s flying for home. What an exciting young talent she is.

10:09am
There’s a family thing going down in the 4*-S today as Olivia Dutton joins us on course with the horse formally piloted by her dad – and fellow competitor – Phillip, Sea Of Clouds. Eyes on this pair – in 34 FEI competitions the gelding hasn’t had a single XC jumping penalty. This guy was 10th in the 5* with Phillip in 2022. They’re sitting on a score of 33.5. Karl gets a little deep to the bounce at the sunken road – 13ABC – but they clear the cabin and carry on with their round. They slip on the flat as they turn the corner towards the Dachshund at 17A – he slipped a little earlier too. They don’t let it bother them though and they gallop up the slope, over the hound, back down and over the brush corner in the water. They’re really plugging their way round this track. Olivia clears the first tricky combination – the water at 4AB – big pats for Sea of Clouds. Meanwhile, Karl is over the last and through the finish flags.

10:06am
Last year’s winner of this competition with Hot Bobo, Canada’s Karl Sleasak is on his way with Chevalier. Fun fact – Chevalier translates as Knight in English. He’s been clear in his last three runs and is speedy too – eyes on this one! They’re sitting on a score of 36.2. They get off to a great start but fence 6 makes itself known in the competition once more as they have a run out. He comes back and continues on but he’ll be disappointed for sure. That fence! It really is proving to be a huge question, particularly so early on the course. Meanwhile, Janelle is through the finish line.

10:01am
Canadian pair Katie Malensek and Landjaeger have got their round underway. They’ve had a 20 in each of their two FEI runs so far this season – fingers crossed that it’s third time lucky for them. They’re sitting on a score of 37.7. They put a big jump into the first water and then adds a trot step before the corner at B. But they’re together and galloping on. Briggs and her pony are over the Lucky Horseshoe and complete their 4* cross country.

9:59am
Janelle Flemming and Fly Me Courageous have joined us on course. This 19-year-old has jumped clear ‘round Kentucky 5* – way back in 2015 when he was piloted with this year’s 5* trailblazer Sara Kozumplik. They’re sitting on a score of 39.4. They fly the first three and take the option at the MARS water at 4, like many combinations have. They waste no time though. There are cheers for Briggs’ pony Couture all the way round the course – the crowds are obviously enjoying seeing this courageous little mare. They’re heading down to the angled cabins at 15 and 16. Oh man, they’re brave at the water at 17 – they are truly flying round this track.

9:56am
Briggs Surratt and itty-bitty Corture are off and running. You may be thinking that Corture looks kinda pony-like, and you’d be right – standing at 14.2hh on her tippy toes, she’s a total powerhouse that’s for sure. Fun fact – Couture was bred by fellow competitor Elisa Wallace. They’re sitting on a score of 39.5. They’re flying up the track! This little mare is attacking this round! They positively fly through the first water, making the whole thing look like so much fun. Meanwhile, Brooke has come through the finish flags. Briggs fights her way through the coffin at 6, this pair are so confident, a real team. Cassie’s coming down to the final water, they splash through and are on the homeward stretch now. Redfield Fyre looks full of run where some horses have looked a little tired there.

9:54am
Cassie Sanger and Redfield Fyre are now off and running. In 13 FEI competitions they have zero XC penalties on their card. Eyes on this one for a clear round. They’re sitting on a score of 33.9. Redfield Fyre looks a little backwards over the second by Cassie kicks on and he responds. They set up for the coffin and they wiggle their way through – super work and so nice to see how this fence can work out. Brooke is through the final water and kicking for home.

9:50am
Brooke Burchianti and Cooley Space Grey have left the start box. They jumped clear around Carolina 4*-S earlier this season, here’s hoping for another one of those please. They’re sitting on a score of 48. They set out flying and Cooley Space Grey looks super athletic and easy over the first few fences. They really looked to have nailed it at the Park Question – that pesky coffin – but they have a glance off at the final element. That’s really disappointing as they’d set off in a great rhythm. Cooley Space Grey didn’t really seem to lock on. They come back and carry on their round. They drop down into the water at 9 and seem to have put the trouble at 6 well behind them.

9:47am
Sydney Solomon and Early Review C are now out on course. They’ve had some difficulties out on the cross country so far this season, so this is their chance to put those blips right. They’re sitting on a score of 37.4. Oh goodness, she has a problem going into the water at 4 – Early Review wasn’t interested in getting her feet wet. They come back round and make their way in, but there’s another problem for them at the corner and Sydney puts her hand up to end their round early. Oh no! Autumn’s had a fall – she just gets tossed off the side and just about lands on her feet – that was at fence 15.

9:45am
Autumn Schweiss and Bamford CF have got their Kentucky cross country underway. This is another 9-year-old. They picked up 40 on their last run, so fingers crossed they get to put that behind them here today. They’re sitting on a score of 36.7. Melissa is nearing the end of the course now, and Nilson’s still having a great ride. Autumn takes the option at MARS Sustainability Bay but they’re quick through there. Nilson really sets up for the Defender Sunken Road at 13ABC and they make it happen and continue on their way. Melissa is over the Horseshoe and through the finish. Nilson is over the cabins at 15 and 16 and over ‘the hound on the mound’ – the Dachshund into the final water. He takes the flag, we’ll wait to see what the judges say about that.

9:42am
Brazil’s Nilson Moreira Da Silva and Elmo are away! This guy’s just a 9-year-old. He had a 20 in his first run this season, but jumped clear last time out. They’re sitting on a score of 42.4. They take the option at the first water but waste no time. They fly the stick pile at 5 and comes up to the very tricky coffin complex at 6 – they fight through it and there’s a massive cheer – good for them. Meanwhile, Melissa is still clear as she comes to the two angled cabins at 15 and 16.

9:39am
Canada’s Melissa Boutin and Obeah Dancer GS have now joined us on course. You’ve gotta love this mare’s name! Eyes on this one for a clear round – in 19 FEI competitions they have just one non-completion, and a whole bunch of clear rounds. They’re sitting on a score of 36.7. Waylon gives his lovely mare a big pat as they finish up their round. Melissa’s another one to have a glance off at 6 – this is proving to be a really influential fence. And Shannon’s had trouble there too – she’s walking off course. Melissa has continued on and is clear through 9ABC.

9:36am
Shannon Lilley and Ideal HX have got their round underway. They were 30th here last year after picking up a 20 out on course. Fingers crossed they get a clear in the bag this time around. They’re sitting on a score of 36.2. They’re clear up to the Park Question at 6 but it causes trouble again as they have a runout at the D element. She comes back round and they continue on. Meanwhile Waylon’s through the final water at 17AB and the mare’s really fighting for him. They’re nearing the end of the course now.

9:32am
Canada’s Waylon Roberts is away with OKE Ruby R. Apparently this mare is not an easy ride and Waylon really gets a song out of her. Super impressively, they were the only double clear cross country at this year’s Grand Prix of Eventing at Bruce’s Field. They’re sitting on a score of 35.7. They clear the first three and come quick into the water at 4. He turns for the option, obviously his plan all along. They fly on together. They’re the only combination on track right now. Oh man! Another problem at the Park Question – the coffin complex. They glance off the acute angled brush at D – so disappointing as they looked to be really together up to that point. They come back round and get going again.

9:29am
Heather Gillette and Vincent Chase are now out on course. They were 25th here last year with a steady clear across the country. They’re sitting on a score of 46. They come up to the first water and drop in well. Meanwhile, Melanie’s finished and is still flying as she crosses the line. Her Thoroughbred is still full of run and looks like he could go again. Heather and Vincent Chase are a little sticky. They come to a stand still at the rails into the coffin at the Park Question – they just lost all momentum. She comes back round but the same happened again. She jumps the option before putting her hand up. A shame for them.

9:26am
In the lead with her other ride, US-based Brit Lucienne Bellissimo has got her round underway with Tremanton. This pair had some troubles out on course in their last run at Stable View a few weeks ago, so let’s hope they put that behind them today. They’re sitting on a score of 35.5. They look a little sticky at the start of the course but find their stride. And oh no! They’ve had a refusal at the Park Question. She comes back round but has more trouble. She puts her hand up and decides to walk too. Meanwhile Melanie is really attacking the course and looks to be having a good round.

9:21am
Melanie Smith and Shakedown Street have joined us on course. They had a 20 here last year so will be looking to put that right this time around. They’re sitting on a score of 41.1. She’s made her way to the second water and is clear through there.

9:19am
Molly Duda has left the start box with new to the level this season Disco Traveler. They’ve got 6 consecutive clears on their record, and are speedy to boot – in 10 FEI competitions they’ve added just 0.4 XC time penalties – that’s it, in 10 runs! Blink and you’ll miss ‘em! They’re sitting on a score of 37.4. Meanwhile, Phillip and Jewelent are well and truly back together as they jump the Dachshund at 17AB. They’re through that final water and flying on towards the horseshoe. They cross the flags with a clear round but there will have been a fair bit of time wasted while Phillip was fighting to stay in the saddle. Awe no! Molly Duda has had a fall. She’s up on her feet. Disappointment for her but she’s fine and will be back.

9:14am
He’s No. 1 on the USEA leaderboard and he’s out on course – Phillip Dutton and Jewelent are away! Jewelent’s on a run of 6 XC jumping clears – including at Badminton where he was piloted by Ireland’s Clare Abbott. They’re sitting on a score of 31.1. Meanwhile Liz is over the Lucky Horseshoe and through the finish line. A foot perfect round just a little off the time – a really great round for them. Phillip soars over the stick pile at 5 – Jewelent is really going forward and taking him towards the fences. Will and ‘Timmy’ are at the final water and wasting no time. This pair really know each other so well and it shows in their partnership as they tackle this tricky course. Phillip’s at the Grand Slam water and has a real moment. He’s popped out of the plate, hanging off the side, the crowd are cheering and shouting for what is sure to be the save of the day as Phillip slithers and fights to crawl back up into the saddle. What a super horse, she stood there and waited. And then she got going and jumped the massive brush element at C. What a show!

9:10am
They’ve jumped clear ‘round the 5* three times – Will Coleman and Off The Record are now out on course. They were inside the time in the 5* last year on their way to 7th place. They’re sitting on a score of 30.1. Out on course, Liz is taking all the straight routes, right on her lines – this horse is super impressive for a 9-year-old, he looks like an old pro out there. Will is clear of the first three and heads to the MARS Sustainability Bay. He’s a little deep to the log into the water and puts a big jump in over the corner on the way out. They’re really attacking this course. Shanroe Cooley looks to be feeling a tad tired as he climbs and contends with the undulations out on course – but he’s got his ears pricked and is still attacking these fences. They’re at fences 16 and 17 – the acutely angled cabins. They’re beautiful through the Cosequin Cover water – up the slope and over the Dachshund then down the slope and over the brush corner in the water. They’re shaving off seconds all the way round – so smooth and flowing.

9:07am
No. 3 on the USEA leaderboard Elisabeth Halliday is underway with Shanroe Cooley (USA). This horse doesn’t have a single XC jumping penalty on his record – he’s for sure a jumping machine. They’re sitting on a score of 31.7. Back with Allison and she’s at the Rolex Grand Slam Challenge – the water at 9ABC. She’s still plugging away round this course. Meanwhile Liz has a great shot through the first water at 4 – she’s flying! Jessie Phoenix and Fluorescent Adolescent are through the finish flags.

9:04am
Allison Springer and Vandyke are now out on course. They’ve had jumping penalties in their last three FEI runs – fingers crossed for them to break that streak today. They’re sitting on a score of 35.8. They get off to a good start over the first three, relatively simple fences, and come into the first real question on the course. They get a great shot into the water at 4 and then puts in a huge jump at the corner on the way out of the combination. Meanwhile, Jessie’s still flying round the course. Vandyke puts in a couple of extra little steps through the Park Question at 6 and ends up picking up a 20. Jessie’s at the final water now and still going super.

9am
Our trailblazers Jessica Phoenix and Fluorescent Adolescent leave the start box and get today’s cross country underway! They jumped ‘round clear here last year and finished 24th. Let’s hope they make it two-for-two with a clear round today. They’re sitting on a score of 37.5. They clear the first to a massive cheer from the crowd out there. The folding table at 2 is no trouble and they fly over the oxer at 3. The first combination comes at the MARS Sustainabilty Bay and proves to be nothing to worry about for this pair. The coffin complex comes very early at fence 6 – The Park Question – Jessie flies through there on the slightly longer route, but it wasn’t too much longer. She’s making this tough course look very straightforward so far, but it’s in fact anything but.

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Behind the Barn with Yasmin Ingham and Tom McEwen

By on Apr 27, 2024 7:42 am -

The British have landed! Tom McEwen and Yasmin Ingham are currently first and second, respectively, in the CCI5*-L, but when they’re not going head-to-head on the leaderboard, they’re always down for a good laugh. You can watch this and the entire library of these episodes on the Kentucky YouTube channel here.

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Ride Times] [Live Stream] [Ultimate Guide] [EN’s Coverage]

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Apr 27, 2024 12:01 am -

Today’s the day, the one we wait for all year! It’s the best day of the Best Weekend All Year: cross country day at the 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. As always, I like to wish everyone speedy and safe rides. May you attack the course with the gusto of Chris Hemsworth’s daughter and her tiny pony.

If you’ve got some time before you sign on to watch the live stream, grab your morning brew and give the post-dressage EquiRatings Eventing Podcast a listen, where EquiRating’s Diarm Byrne and our own Sally Spickard breakdown the dressage performances in both divisions and then discuss what we can expect during today’s cross country test.

Get all the links you need to keep tabs on the Kentucky action today right here below and stay tuned for much, much more today! Cross country actions begins at 9:00am ET with the CCI4*-S and then the CCI5* takes the stage at 1:30pm.

U.S. Weekend Action

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Ultimate Guide] [EN’s Coverage]

Horse Park of New Jersey Spring H.T. (Allentown, NJ) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Loudoun Hunt Pony Club Spring H.T. (Leesburg, VA) [Website] [Entries][Ride Times] [Volunteer][Scoring]

The Event at Archer Spring Fling YEH and NEH (Cheyenne, WY) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

University of New Hampshire Spring H.T. (Durham, NH)[Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

International Events

Ballindenisk International (Ireland) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Timetable] [Eventing Ireland Facebook Page]

Links to Start Your Weekend:

Bronte Beach Has A Team Of Women In Medicine Behind Her

Opening The Door to the Future: Volunteers Help 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event to Succeed

Son Of Tiznow, Unraced And Sold For $1, Achieves Pinnacle Of Eventing Sport

Focusing on Kentucky and Looking Ahead to Paris 2024 Olympic Games

Leaders urged to be bold and ambitious at ‘crucial moment’ for horse sport

Sponsor Corner: Sharon White & Jaguar Duendes look amazing in their Vespucci bridle from World Equestrian Brands! Did you see Sharon compete in the 5* at the Kentucky Horse Park this weekend? Shop for a Vespucci bridle of your own here or at booth #109 if you’re in attendance at Kentucky!

Morning Viewing: In case you missed it, here’s Tom McEwan and DL Dublin’s leading five-star test. And yes, you can hear the bird of prey and the commotion it caused right in the middle of the canter work! If you don’t know what Im talking about, make sure you catch up on yesterday’s 5* dressage report.

Tom McEwen Takes Command, U.S. Riders Charge on Final Dressage Day at Defender Kentucky CCI5*

By on Apr 26, 2024 9:00 pm -

Tom McEwen and JL Dublin. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We had to wait until the final group of the field to see World Champion Yasmin Ingham’s early lead shaken on Friday at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*, presented by MARS Equestrian, and it was a fellow Brit who would eventually topple her into second place.

Tom McEwen is no stranger to pressure or the taste of success, and he’s put himself in the driver’s seat with a lovely and expressive test from the thirteen-year-old JL Dublin (Diarado – Zarinna, by Canto), owned by Mr and Mrs J Lambert and Mrs D Johnston, to earn a penalty mark of 24.6 to slide in front of Yasmin and Banzai du Loir’s 26.0. While Tom admitted that he felt that it didn’t quite live up to some of the tests he and “Dubs” have ever produced, his effort still provides him with the overnight lead ahead of Saturday’s cross country challenge.

“I must say it’s quite atmospheric today,” Tom reflected after his test. “There’s quite a few people in there, it’s quite electric in there, which I think has shown with a lot of the tests here – probably everyone not quite getting scores of what they were hoping for, for example. [Dubs] put everything into it, but it wasn’t our best test work. For me, I think we can be softer, better, clear again, but we went in there and nailed what we had on the day. I’m delighted with him.”

Tom McEwen and JL Dublin. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

When asked why he chose to come to Kentucky this year, Tom noted how much he enjoys coming here — but more importantly, the fact that he knew that in order to stand out to the British Olympic selectors,  he will need to be the cream of the crop this spring season. It’s no secret the defending Olympic gold medal-winning team has depth in spades — arguably more so than any other nation at this point in time — so it’s not hard to imagine that Tom’s idea of ‘cream of the crop’ means nothing lower than a podium finish at the five-star level.

“Honestly, it is actually probably one of the best venues in the world,” Tom continued. “We all hope, and we’d all love to be going to the Olympics in a couple of months time. So realistically,  the best way of doing it is come to the one best places in the world. Realistically, I’ve come here to try — our British team is so strong, as you’ve seen with four Brits inside the top 10 this weekend already so far — and every show we’ve been to, they’re so strong. You’ve actually got to go and show yourself, and everyone’s got a different way of doing it and different ideas on how to go about it — but for me, it’s to come and actually perform on a stage on the biggest day.”

Friday afternoon in the Rolex Stadium certainly felt like the biggest of days, with a palpable atmosphere rippling through the stands: “It really felt very busy in the dressage arena today. It felt very electric for the horses and actually being able to come out and expose them to something like that is perfect preparation.”

Tom has knocked on the door of a five-star win with the former Nicola Wilson ride JL Dublin, with whom he finished second here last year, but has yet to achieve that ultimate success of a 5* victory to add to his 2019 Pau win with Toledo de Kerser. While Kentucky is certainly anything but a dressage competition, it’s no doubt a nice feeling to have that coveted first position in hand. Even so, Tom has just 3.5 seconds in hand tomorrow on a course that’s historically tough on the optimum time, while the stats gurus at EquiRatings have him at a 38% win chance after dressage, followed by current second place holder Yasmin Ingham with a 30% chance. You can read more about how EquiRatings algorithm calculates its statistics here.

Tom McEwen and JL Dublin. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

There was a bit of drama during Tom’s test: unbeknownst to him, a hawk captured a squirrel and took it for a screaming spin over the stadium during the test. This caused quite a kerfuffle from the crowd, but luckily Tom and Dubs were focused enough not to notice. The rest of us are fairly traumatized, to be honest.

“I didn’t hear them because last year when I went in, it was quite quiet because there wasn’t really anyone here — and then one person whooped when I did a medium which was a little bit… I was wondering what was going on! So no, this year it was quite peaceful in there,” Tom chuckled when I asked if he’d noticed the aforementioned kerfuffle. I’m not sure the squirrel would agree, though.

Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We have a tie for third place now between two U.S. riders. First up was Lauren Nicholson with the evergreen Vermiculus (Serazim ox – Wake Me Gently xx by Be My Native xx), owned by Ms. Jacqueline Mars, who posted a 30.6 to slide into third earlier in the afternoon. At 17 years old, Vermiculus is among the most experienced horses in the field, and while he’s scored lower before, you wouldn’t have known it from Lauren’s emotions afterward.

“We’ve been very, very lucky,” she said. “He did his first four-long as an eight-year-old and his first five-star here as a ten-year-old and he’s done kind of two, three big three-days a year ever since then, for almost a decade now. Last year was the first season we missed, but we also knew we didn’t want to take any chances with the coming year — and every run on him at this point is just a blessing and fun.”

Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

It’s a testament to Lauren’s program to have a horse of this caliber competing (and, you know, competing) at this level, something Lauren attributes to her team at home as well as the education she has received over the last two decades from David and Karen O’Connor. Lauren, an Olympian in her own right, also knows what it takes to get to a team selection, and she’ll definitely have Paris in mind as she sets out for cross country tomorrow. Vermiculus has a 78% clear jumping rating on EquiRatings at the 5* level and should put his Arabian blood and base of fitness to good use in the hotter temperatures on Saturday.

“If I’m going to go into a team championship at this point, I want to be as sharp as possible, and for me and my horses, I feel like doing a long format five-star and having that extra pressure and intensity is part of that process,” Lauren said on her decision to tackle the 5* — plus, Vermiculus does need a long format to be qualified for Paris since he had a light year in 2023. “But I think it also totally depends on the person and the horse and the four-star short here certainly is not soft by any means — it’s more of a five-star short, so I don’t think anyone in either division is going to leave feeling less than prepared if the Olympics is on the cards later in the year.”

Liz Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Tied with Lauren for third, having ridden later in the day in the final group, are Liz Halliday with The Nutcracker Syndicate and Ocala Horse Properties’ Cooley Nutcracker (Tolant R – Ballyshan Cleopatra, by Cobra). This is a first 5* for “Bali”, who Liz has had since the outset of his career. There’s always a notion of ‘prepare, but you don’t really know until you do it’ when it comes to a horse’s suitability for a 5*, but Liz has certainly crossed her t’s in prep for this debut. It was about halfway around the Galway CCI4*-L course last year (which she went on to win) that she knew the 10-year-old Irish gelding was ready for the next step.

“When he’s nervous, he suddenly tries to stop on me,” Liz laughed. “And so that was what he did in the first shoulder in, and so I rode him quite strong in the second one. He also does it sometimes going across the diagonal to change without me doing anything because he goes, ‘how about walk?’ No, no, please don’t walk! I think it’s just his nerves, and he did notice the camera in the extended walk. But he was a very good boy to go ‘oh!’ and just put himself back together again and be a professional. So I was proud of him for that. Like I say, there were plenty of green moments — it was not even close to a polished test. So for him to be in second with that is exciting for his future.”

A 30.6 leaves plenty of room for improvement for Liz, who’s skilled on the flat and well-known for her prowess at collecting sub-30 dressage scores. With a lovely test delivered today, it’s exciting to think about the potential that still lies untapped.

Sharon White and Claus 63. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Also making a stellar debut in the first phase is another rookie horse, Claus 63 (Catoo – Tina II, by Levisto), who is ridden by Pan Ams team silver medalist Sharon White to a score of 30.7 to sit in fifth place tonight. This weekend has been a reasonably long time coming for Sharon, who’s not had a 5* ride since the retirement of the great Cooley On Show and has taken her time producing Claus to this point. Purchased sight unseen as a five-year-old from Dirk Schrade in Germany, Claus has been tactfully produced through his tendency to be emotional and sharp, particularly in this phase. This spring, he’s not achieved the scores he’s capable of, but today he went in and delivered for Sharon.

“I’m so proud of him,” a very smiley Sharon said. “I was there for him and he responded in kind, so it was really, really satisfying that he was just there. And I thought he was so good, so obedient, so with me. Of course, there’s a little bit — or a lot of — distraction in there, but I thought he was really good and quite a professional, which is not always his strong suit, so I’m thrilled with him.”

“What I really wanted, I achieved, which is that we stuck together and he was with me,” she continued, noting that she had set a goal for herself and was slightly disappointed to not quite have gotten the score she hoped for. But slotting into second at the time is nothing to turn your nose up at, and Sharon remains realistic: “I was actually slightly disappointed with the score, but it’s fine and it is what it is and what I really wanted, I achieved, which is that we stuck together and he was with me, and the score is not up to me. It gives me a starting point, and it is so far from a dressage competition.”

Claus has a couple of Advanced and 4*-S wins under his belt, and of course it remains to be seen how he’ll handle the phases to come, but he’s in excellent, experienced hands with Sharon, who’s focus on mental fortitude has been supplemented this season by assistance from sport psychologist Natalie Hummel.

Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Also newly added to the top 10 today are multi-Kentucky winner Oliver Townend with Cooley Rosalent (Valent – Bellaney Jewel xx, by Roselier xx), a young talent who impressed at Maryland last year and came in as a top horse to watch for the podium finish. “Rosie” didn’t quite have the test Oliver had hoped for, but he remained pragmatic about the 10-year-old mare’s future.

“I thought the exceptional bits were very good and the mistakes were the mistakes,” he said. “I felt she was good. She’s just still a baby. She’s only nine, coming ten years old still. And it’s the start of her career at this level. So, on to the next thing. I think she’ll learn a lot here and the judging is the judging.”

The Rookie Update

Several other rookie horses went down centerline for the first time at a 5* today, and I always like to check in as it’s often an opportunity to glimpse the future talents of the sport.

Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

D’Accord FRH – Christoph Wahler

This wasn’t quite the rest the German rider would have hoped for. A 34.0 — a shade higher than what the horse typically scores, though of course the 5* test is its own animal — will slot this pair into 15th place overnight.

“The trot work [was] okay. I think it’s not necessarily something that comes very easy for him, but he was with me, he was willing to give as much as he can and I think I also did not such a bad job in the trot work. But then, yes, starting with the walk, he was holding himself back a little bit. Walk is our weakest link. I know that, but I think he did it alright. And then in the canter work, it was a shame that he spooked in front of that camera in the second flying change after the half pass because he’s not a spooky horse. He doesn’t really look at things. So I was a bit taken by surprise that he looked at the camera. So obviously that was a very big mistake and then afterwards, the rest of the canter work was alright. He’s usually very good with the changes. The rest was not as good as we can be. But I think for the first time in the five-star test with this horse, it was alright.”

Doug Payne and Camarillo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Camarillo – Doug Payne

The feral pony officially made his 5* debut this afternoon, and while he didn’t quite get down to Doug’s initial goal of a mid-30s score, earning a 38.0, Doug was pleased with the effort the 10-year-old gelding made.

“You know, [it was his] first time in an arena like that– he’s not seen much of it, and he was exceptionally good. There was one little miscommunication at the very end, he thought halt and we’re talking about changing but aside from that, he was excellent. You know, it’s one of those things — I look at him absolutely as a horse for the future. He’s ten years old now, has just done three four-star longs, which I think just needs a lot of innate strength and confidence, and it’s just getting better and better.”

James Alliston and Karma. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Karma – James Alliston

A 38.5 is on the board for the lovely mare Karma (who yes, has an unofficial theme song sung by Taylor Swift), who’s traveled out from California for this first run. James is another exceptionally experienced rider in the field, having brought multiple horses to this level throughout his careers. Now he debuts Karma, who’s definitely a bit stronger in the jumping phases at this point in her career. She is capable of a lower-30s score, so there is undoubtedly still potential in there as the mare continues to develop her strength at this level.

“I was happy with the horse; she was really relaxed, and I was hoping for a slightly better score but the horse was really, really good. I’m happy with her. She had a good season last year at four-star, and you never know until you do it, obviously, but everything she’s done at four-star she’s done well. So hopefully, we can make the next step.”

Bec Braitling and Caravaggio II. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Caravaggio II – Bec Braitling

Bec Braitling did her first 5* centerline in 21 years today, bringing forward the 13-year-old British gelding for his debut today. They earned a 39.3 for 28th place. Despite the higher score — “Ernie” isn’t really the biggest fan of dressage, which is honestly very relatable — Bec was thrilled with her horse.

“I was pretty happy to get through that!” a very positive Bec said afterward. “He was pretty wired in there. He’s been so good all week! And then he got some braids in and came up here and went berserk. And I was like, ‘Cool…!’ Tamie [Smith] was like, ‘he looks great!’ And I’m like, ‘No, he doesn’t!’ And then I was in there just like, ‘oh my god, I have four changes’. I don’t get a change in, usually, and he did almost all of them! And then of course he trotted in the stretchy canter. I was like, ‘Oh, good boy’ and then he trotted. So yeah, a bit of amateur hour in there. But no, he was so good given that he gets so wired about this phase — it’s his nightmare. Small ring, big horse, you know — he doesn’t feel like he fits in there!”

Joe Meyer and Harbin. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Harbin – Joe Meyer

New Zealand’s Joe Meyer also brought forward a debutant this weekend in the adorable Harbin, scoring a 40.4 to go into 30th place. Joe’s remaining realistic about the challenge ahead tomorrow, but he feels the experience the 14-year-old Irish Thoroughbred has gained at four-star will serve him well.

“After Blenheim when he went around so well, I thought he was ready, and the other four-stars that he’s done beforehand. I was wondering whether he had the legs, you know, because he does gallop quite high and things like that. But after Blenheim I got him very, very fit and in a really good place. And I think he’s… is he a Burghley horse? I’m not sure. But he is up for stuff like this Kentucky and maybe Badminton? I think that, he’s more than capable of.”

The Last Word

Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

There was one elimination in the dressage today. Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby were stopped by the judges early in their test and subsequently eliminated. Lillian sent us the following statement:

“The ground jury decided today that Barnaby looked uneven in his test and eliminated me from the competition. The vets have looked him over back at the barn and there is nothing to report. My best guess is that tension made him take some short steps. I am clearly devastated but I also am happy to have a healthy, sound horse and if there is one thing no one can argue, it is that Barnaby owes me nothing. I am here now to cheer on all my friends competing and will be back as a competitor another day.”

We have one withdrawal ahead of cross country in this division: Will Faudree has made the very respectable decision to withdraw Jennifer Mosing and Sterling Silver Stables’ Mama’s Magic Way after he said the buzz in the ring got the better of him today in the dressage (he scored an uncharacteristic 40.1). “He’s done five five-stars and we want to be more competitive and the atmosphere got the best of him today and there is no point in running him,” Will commented. “We will go back to the 20×60 and get better and be back to win one soon.”

Now we look ahead to cross country, the preview of which I’ll have for you first thing tomorrow (you can also view both the 4* and the 5* track on CrossCountryApp here). It very much remains an open game right now, favorites or not, and the Derek di Grazia design stands to exert its influence. Cross country for the 5* begins at 1:30 p.m. tomorrow following the 4*.

You can listen in on a recap of dressage as well as a preview of the action to come on the EquiRatings Dressage Review Show with myself and Diarm Byrne of EquiRatings here or wherever you get your podcasts.

We’ll be back with much more tomorrow, including full live blogs from both divisions from Cheg Darlington. As always, we appreciate you waiting into the evening while I organize my thoughts, and hope you have enjoyed following along with the #BestWeekendAllYear so far. Go Eventing!

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Ride Times] [Live Stream] [Ultimate Guide] [EN’s Coverage]

Miks Master C and Dyri Tie for Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S Lead Heading in to Cross Country

By on Apr 26, 2024 6:34 pm -

Liz Halliday and Miks Master C. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We saw the leaderboard shake up a bit at the conclusion of dressage for the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S at the 2024 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. A competitive field was expected, with the Olympic selection committee present here this weekend, and the riders on the second day certainly did not disappoint.

After leading the first day, we saw Boyd Martin and Commando 3 slide into fourth going into cross country tomorrow. We now see a fully female top three: a tie for first between Liz Halliday with Ocala Horse Properties’ and Deborah Palmer’s Miks Master C (Mighty Magic – Qui Lumba CBF, by Quite Easy) and Lucienne Bellissimo with Horse Scout Eventing’s Dyri (Diarado – La Calera, by King Milford xx) on a 26.0, and Caroline Pamukcu and Mollie Hoff, Sherrie Martin, Deniz Pamukcu, and her own HSH Blake (Tolan R – Doughiska Lass, by Kannan) in third on a 27.3.

Liz Halliday and Miks Master C. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Liz and Miks Master C are entering their third season together. While Liz and “Mikki” have only been together since 2022, this partnership has plenty of experience together already, with three previous 4*S wins, a third place finish in the 5* at Kentucky last year (the horse’s debut at the level), and a top ten Pan Ams individual placing.

“I was pleased with Mikki, he definitely knows where he is this week… he remembers the five-star, he’s been very keen and ready to go… I toyed with the idea of doing the five-star, but I felt he proved himself here last year, and the smart thing for his health and longevity was to do the four-star. He’s a horse with so much power, and was very excitable today so I just tried to keep him calm in the warm up. Our last change was a little expensive, but the rest I was really pleased with him,” Liz reflected.

Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Despite their expensive last change, their score of 26.0 was enough to put them in the lead, tied for first with Lucienne Bellissimo Dyri. Dyri had previously been campaigned through the 3* level with Dirk Schrade before Lucienne took the ride in 2021.

“I’m thrilled with Dyri,” Lucienne commented on their dressage test, which earned them their new personal best at the level. “He’s one of those geldings who’s a little bit introverted. Every time he goes up the centerline, he loses a little bit of confidence, but today was the first time he really started to let me in to all of his work. [We have been] taking time and gaining trust.”

“I did the opposite of what everyone else,” Lucienne laughed. “I did no arena familiarization with him. Which was a risk, but it did pay off… I think if I’d have brought him in last night, he would have come in thinking a little bit backwards. Instead, I was able to put my leg on and actually ride him.”

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Pan Ams individual gold medalist Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake sit only 1.3 penalty points behind Liz and Lucienne.

“I’m not going to lie, I tried not to cry at the end. I’m so proud of my horse, and he’s only 9 this year,” Caroline said. “This weekend is his fourth advanced ever.”

Despite having limited 4* experience together, Caroline and Blake have continuously shown their competitiveness at the level, finishing in the top three in the three 4* previously contested, as well as winning the individual gold at the Pan Ams in 2023.

Outside of the top three, we see Boyd Martin and Commando 3 in fourth, Elisabeth Halliday and Cooley Quicksilver in fifth, and William Coleman with Diabolo and Off The Record in sixth and seventh, after having to withdraw Chin Tonic HS earlier this week.

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

As the competition moves to cross country tomorrow, it will be an exciting day to follow. Only 5.3 penalty points separate the top ten, leaving no room for error. This year as an Olympic year is more intense than ever, and the event expects at least 30,000 people in attendance on Saturday. The CCI4*-S will be the first division of the day, starting out at 9 a.m. You can find ride times here.

Hannah Sue Hollberg and Carsonstown. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“I absolutely love the course, the ground feels amazing. I think it’s tough, fence 4 at the water, and fence 6 with the coffin early on… it’s unforgiving, but it’s well built,” Lucienne stated.

There were a handful of withdrawals ahead of cross country: Tamie Smith withdrew Danito (we have reached out to her for information and will update if we receive any, but Danito hasn’t had many runs in the last bit so it was perhaps always her plans to just do dressage), Buck Davidson withdrew Cooley Candyman, which was his original plan as he is aiming for Tryon’s 4*-L in May and was using this as practice, Katie Malensek withdrew STX Mex, and John Michael Durr withdrew Blue Rodeo.

“We do this not just because we love to compete, but because we love the horses with whom we compete,” JM shared on social regarding “Stanley”. “That partnership is what drives us and brings out our best self every weekend. Sometimes that means listening to what our teammate has to say—even when it is hard to hear. For us, that means addressing the fact that while Nugget the wonder pony has been amazing, the pressure of performing in the dressage arena is overwhelming for Blue Rodeo, therefore, our team has decided to follow his lead and pursue a career in show jumping. I want to share my sincerest thanks to Drs. Anne Baskett and Bill Hay, who not only bred Stanley (Blue Rodeo), but have always put him first. They are incredible veterinarians and horse owners, and have been like family to me. I am incredibly excited for this new adventure and hope it will give Stanley an opportunity to truly blossom. Thank you all for your support. We look forward to this next chapter.”

Tomorrow’s weather forecast looks to be sunny and warm, with temperatures rising into the upper 70s in the afternoon. We’ll be covering the action at the #BestWeekendAllYear, so make sure to stay connected!

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Ultimate Guide] [EN’s Coverage]

Dancing Shoes On for 5* Dressage Day Two – Live Blog from The Best Weekend All Year – Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event

By on Apr 26, 2024 12:58 pm -

Overnight leaders in the CCI5* – Britain’s Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

What a day of dressage we had yesterday! The sun was shining on Kentucky and our stars of the show stepped up to the plate. Here’s our top three as things stand:

1ïžâƒŁ In pole position after the first day’s dressage is Great Britain’s Yasmin Ingham with Banzai du Loir on a score of 26.
2ïžâƒŁ 5 points behind, also from Great Britain, are Kirsty Chabert and Classic VI on 31.
3ïžâƒŁ And rounding out the top three, just 0.1 behind, we have Germany’s Malin Hansen-Hotopp with Carlitos Quidditch K on 31.1.

Ready for even more? Oh yes we are!

Here’s a taste of what we’ve got to look forward to today:

đŸ‡șđŸ‡Č From the US cohort we have the current top 3 on the USEA leaderboard:

1ïžâƒŁ Phillip Dutton is here with his stunning mare Azure;
2ïžâƒŁ World No. 3 Boyd Martin comes forward with Maryland 5* winner and fourth place finisher here in 2021 On Cue;
3ïžâƒŁ Liz Halliday’s exciting talent Cooley Nutcracker is making his 5* debut.

🇬🇧 The Brits are here in force with Olympic team gold and individual silver medalist Tom McEwen back with last year’s runner-up JL Dublin, and gunning for his fourth Kentucky win is World No. 1, Tom’s Olympic gold teammate Oliver Townend, who brings forward Maryland 5* third place finisher Cooley Rosalent.

🇩đŸ‡ș The Aussies are represented by 5* rookie combination Rebecca Braitling and Caravaggio II.

🇳🇿 And at the other end of the scale, in the Kiwi camp we have seven-time Kentucky competitor Joe Meyer with his 5* first-timer Harbin.

đŸ‡©đŸ‡Ș Going for Germany this afternoon, we have World Championship team gold medalist Christoph Wahler, who’s been on hot form recently with his ride here this week, 5* first-timer D’Accord FRH.

I kid you not, the field is so totally stacked I could have highlighted them all – and if you’re wishing I had, then you’re in need of EN’s epic Form Guide, which you’ll find right here.

The USA’s Sharon White and Claus 63 will kick off the action today at 1pm ET / 7pm CEST.

If you want to see when your favorites are going, you’ll find the ride times here.

Missed out yesterday? Don’t fret. Catch up with every step from Dressage Day One with the live blog, which you’ll find right here – and read our round-up report here.

Will there be a change at the top after today’s action between the white boards? Who will be heading into the best day of the year as leader of the pack? I’ll be bringing you live updates throughout the afternoon, so keep this page refreshed and watch this space! If you’re catching up with this later and are the type to like things in order, scroll âŹ‡ïž and read âŹ†ïž. If going backwards is more your jam, have at it.

If your appetite for all things Kentucky is as insatiable as ours – all hail the eventing nerds! – we’ve got a whole bunch of content coming your way, and then some. We’ve got more live blogs comin’ at ya – tune in tomorrow for the 4*-S and 5* cross country, and on Sunday for the finale of the 5* show jumping. AS WELL AS THAT we’re posting daily reports from each stage of the competition and we’ve got loads of great IG content happening courtesy of our team on the ground too @goeventing. Click here for all the Kentucky content you can handle.

Let’s turn our attention to the center line, and go eventing!

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

4:08pm ET
Dressage is done, it’s actually the weekend (kind of) and we’re just one sleep away from The. Best. Day.

Here’s who’s heading out onto tomorrow’s cross country at the head of the pack:

1ïžâƒŁ Our clubhouse leader is Great Britain’s Tom McEwen with JL Dublin on a score of 24.6.
2ïžâƒŁ Just 1.4 behind, also from Britain, are Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir on 26.
3ïžâƒŁ And rounding out the top three we have a pair of Americans – Liz Halliday with Cooley Nutcracker and Lauren Nicholson with Vermiculuson 30.6.

But we all know that eventing’s not a dressage competition. Make sure you’re back with us tomorrow at 9am ET / 3pm CEST when I’ll be live blogging my fingers off for the 4*-S cross country AND the 5* at 1:30pm ET / 7:30pm CEST.

Eyes on for our Dressage Day Two round-up – coming soon. Until then, click here for all the Kentucky content you can handle.

That’s all from the dressage, and all from me for now.
Until tomorrow ENers, go eventing!

3:55pm ET
Phillip Dutton and Azure (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – ‘Sky’ made her 5* debut last season at Maryland but an unfortunate fall means she’s looking for her first top-level completion here this week.
1ïžâƒŁ Phillip is currently sitting at the top of the USEA leaderboard.
👀 Watch out for this pair on the cross country on Saturday – the mare has had jumping penalties just once – and that fall at Maryland – in 24 starts!
⏩ Bred and produced to CCI4* level by Irish international eventer Elizabeth Power, Azure joined Phillip’s barn in 2022.
📈 They were 12th in the 4*-S at Stable View earlier this month and 7th at Bouckaert Farm a few weeks ago, adding just XC time to their score on both occasions. Last season they won the 4*-L at Bromont, adding just 0.8 to their dressage of 36.4.
📋 Trending mid-30s in the first phase – they scored 34.2 at Maryland – they won’t be at the top of the pack once dressage is done, but Azure’s seriously impressive cross country jumping record means she’s likely to be climbing the leaderboard on Saturday.

đŸ€  Definitely a Dutton:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Azure truly is beautiful. A real picture. Phillip takes an extra circle before entering the ring and they’re dead straight down the center line. Sky looks very fit as she gets going into her trot work. She’s got lovely rhythm and she looks soft in the connection. She’s very powerful and expressive in her movements – there’s so much potential on show.

Sky shows a little tension in the walk, she’s looking a little buzzy. Phillip’s sitting very quietly. He’s managing to keep Sky to a walk, only just, but it is walk. The halt at C is very square.

Phillip has to be a bit tentative cantering down the long side, he’s riding really sensibly to keep a lid on Sky’s excitement without losing marks. Sky’s behaving very nicely and answering the questions he’s asking. Phillip doesn’t let the rein out too much in the stretch circle, but Sky is soft in her body on the whole.

They finish up with a square halt and Sky shows just how much excitement she’s been holding under wraps as there’s a massive cheer from the crowd. She gets a big pat from Phillip. Overall there was so much potential on show here, and a lot of strength and power that will stand them in good stead tomorrow.

Phillip Dutton and Azure score 37.4.

3:47pm ET
Boyd Martin and On Cue (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This pair were 4th in the 5* here in 2021 and then won at Maryland where they finished on their dressage of 25. They were top 10 at Burghley last season. In all of the starts at the level, they’ve never finished outside the top 10.
2ïžâƒŁ3ïžâƒŁ Boyd is currently sitting in 2nd on the USEA leaderboard and is ranked 3rd in the world. He took home a team silver medal from the World Championships in Pratoni and has two Pan-Ams team golds and an individual title to his name.
🛀 It’s no secret that Boyd is partial to a nippy dip, but have you ever wondered where his love of ice baths comes from? Perhaps it’s in the genes 👖 Boyd’s parents met at the Winter Olympics – his mom competed in speed skating ⛞ and his dad in cross-country skiing ⛷ So that’s why he’s so speedy across the country!
đŸ€– This 18-year-old has just a single XC jumping penalty on her record from 22 FEI competitions.
📈 Last season they were 3rd in the fall edition of the 4*-S at Bromont, where they topped the podium in the summer.
📋 They put down a 31.8 at Burghley last season. Their previous 5* scores in the first phase were both sub-30 though – a 25 at Maryland and 27 here at Kentucky in 2021. 👀 Eyes on!

On Cue’s already a 5* winner, is she on cue to add another to her card?:

Photo by Abby Powell.

Today’s Test:
Cue and Boyd mean business for sure. They halt dead square and move off fluidly into trot. Cue’s so correct in her steps, there’s lovely balance and rhythm to her trot. She’s light on her feet in the medium and this all looks very easy for this beautiful mare.

This is a big, long horse but Boyd holds her together brilliantly so she can deliver her best work. It’s just so comfortable to watch this pair. There’s a tiny moment when she has a little look around in the walk, but she’s back quickly and very relaxed, stepping out really nicely for Boyd.

The halt and reinback are excellent, so careful and clear. Boyd’s riding for every mark – so accurately – and Cue is responding beautifully. This test isn’t so extravagant as those at the top of the leaderboard, but it’s clean and soft and so settled, it really is lovely to see this partnership in action.

Cue hasn’t put a foot out of place throughout this test. They finish in a straight halt to a cheer from the crowd. A real lovely display of a horse and rider exactly on the same page.

Boyd Martin and On Cue score 32.2.

3:39pm ET
Doug Payne and Camarillo (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! Camarillo, not Doug. At ten, Camarillo is one of the youngest horses here.
đŸ„‡ Doug won team gold at the 2019 Pan-Ams and was individually 16th at the Tokyo Olympics with Vandiver. He was 3rd here at Kentucky with his other ride in the 5* Quantum Leap in 2022, and has a further three top 10 5* finishes on his card.
📈 They were 18th in the 4*-S at Stable View earlier this month and 26th at Carolina International. They were top 20 here last year in the 4*-S.
📋 Their dressage scores range from the low to high-30s. In their two 4* runs this season they’ve posted a 32.4 and 34.4.

Camarillo sure is one striking gray:

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Today’s Test:
Camarillo looked pretty hot when we saw him in the warm up earlier. Doug takes his time after the bell rings. But he’s looking fairly relaxed as he canters up the center line and they start off with a square halt. Camarillo’s fussing around with the bridle a little bit and Doug’s doing a great job to keep him focused. His trot steps are lovely and there’s so much scope in this horse’s movement. He’s actually very relaxed in his body, despite the fussiness in his mouth.

The walk is a little tentative and there are a couple of unbalanced steps at times. It stays relaxed through. Not so much in the reinback, Camarillo’s head comes up and he hollows a bit for the first step, but listens when Doug asks him to drop his head and it finishes better than it started.

Doug’s not able to push down the long side in canter, he’s riding for the marks he can get but can’t let the lid off his really. Camarillo’s answering the questions he’s being asked though on the whole, a few bobbles in the connection here and there.

Overall, this test shows a fair bit of potential and Doug rewards Camarillo with a big pat at the end. Some lovely work, some bobbles. A lot of tactful riding.

Doug Payne and Camarillo score 38.

3:31pm ET
Tom McEwen and JL Dublin (GBR)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – ‘Dubs’ made the trip to Kentucky last season and came 2nd, adding just 5.2 XC time penalties to his dressage score. He followed that up with 3rd place at Pau later in the year.
🏆 Dubs was European Champion as a 10-year-old in 2021 with Nicola Wilson, when he finished on his dressage score of 20.9.
đŸ„‡đŸ„ˆ Tom took home team gold and individual silver medals from Tokyo with Toldeo de Kerser.
👟 Tom stays 5* fit by running (apparently he runs ‘round cross country courses, as well as putting in a more detailed walk, of course). He’s even run the London Marathon in support of Alzheimer’s Research UK.
📈 They come here in hot form đŸŒ¶ïž having won the 4*-S at Kronenberg, Netherlands last month on a finishing score of 27.3.
📋 This guy is ONE TO WATCH 👀 Dubs is the joint-best dressage horse in the field (tied with Yasmin Ingham’s Banzai du Loir). We’re not just talking sub-30 here, we’re talking low-20s, for sure with the potential to even go into the teens. They put down a 20.9 in Kronenberg, matching his career-best result. He scored 23.1 in the first phase at Pau last season, and 22.6 here in Kentucky.

đŸ•șTwinkle toes:

Today’s Test:
Dubs looks great as he canters up the center line and Tom definitely looks to mean business. This is such a classy combination. And they go out to impress right from the off with a gorgeous extended trot – so powerful and big and expressive. Very high marks incoming.

There’s such suppleness in this horse and his movements are so flowing and rhythmical. And Tom rides his tests as accurately as it’s possible to be – he’s pushing for every single mark and is being rewarded with big ones.

Dubs has a really nice swing in the walk, every step is fluid and correct. The halt at C is excellent and the reinback looks easy. They’re smooth and fluid into canter. This is the beautiful test we were hoping for, so far.

Dubs really looks rideable and so very, very comfortable in everything Tom is asking for. He pushes for the extended canter and then Dubs comes straight back. Tom just has to soften the rein in the stretch circle and Dubs takes it forward and down. They really are a picture of harmony.

They finish up in a totally square halt, and there’s a massive cheer from the crowd in appreciation of such excellent work. Tom is super relaxed as he walks out of the ring with Dubs on the buckle end. There’s lots of cheers and applause from the crowd. This really was a gorgeous example of eventing dressage.

Tom McEwen and JL Dublin score 24.6 and go storming into the lead!

3:23pm ET
James Alliston and Karma (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! At 10, Karma is one of the youngest horses here.
💒 We love an eventing wedding and James didn’t disappoint, marrying fellow eventer Helen at Galway Downs in 2019.
đŸȘœ Leaderboard climb incoming! This mare is a jumping machine! From her 8 international runs, she’s had no XC jumping penalties and time faults on just one occasion; in the show jumping ring she’s had one single pole.
📈 This combination headed over to the Netherlands last season to compete in the Nations Cup at Boekelo, where she finished on her dressage score of 35.9 for 14th place, helping the USA to claim team 4th.
📋 They tend to trend low to mid-30s in the first phase.

Knees up and ears forward:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Karma was USEA Mare of the Year last year. She’s real beautiful. She’s got a lot of energy and James will have to keep that on track between the white boards.

They get off to a nice start and Karma’s being good for James. There’s a tiny loss of balance at times in the trot work, partly because she’s got so much power. But there’s a lot of very nice work happening.

There’s a little bobble in the corner and it looks as though there’s a bit of tension creeping in. Karma seems to have noticed the massive atmosphere in the arena. She does relax at the beginning of the walk though. She’s a little fussy in the bridle, showing that tension, but she is walking cleanly.

She’s ready to go off into canter when James asks for the reinback, but she does listen to him. She’s happier in canter and is settling in now. James is doing a lovely job riding the horse that’s underneath him, he’s really sympathetic and soft.

There’s not a lot of stretch in the circle but Karma is looking more relaxed towards the end of their test. They finish up with a nice halt and Karma gets a good pat on the neck. Lots of potential on show here.

James Alliston and Karma score 38.3.

3:15pm ET
Elisabeth Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! Cooley Nutcracker, not Liz! Liz was 3rd here last year with Miks Master C. Cooley Nutcracker is one of four 10-year-olds competing here.
3ïžâƒŁ Liz is currently sitting in 3rd place on the USEA leaderboard.
đŸ„ˆ She won team silver at the Pan-Ams last season.
📈 This combination took 5th place in the 4*-S at Carolina International this season, where they added just 4.8 XC time penalties to their score. 11 penalties for activating a frangible device in the 4*-S at Stable View earlier this month saw them finish up in 20th place. Last season they won the 4*-L at Galway Downs and Mill Spring and were 2nd in the 4*-S at Morven Park. They were 9th in the 4*-S here at Kentucky.
📋 At 4* they trend in the mid to high-20s, but this flashy gelding is well capable of a low-20s test as he showed on his way to 2nd place at Morven Park where he put down a 22.6. He scored 24.5 here at the Horse Park in the 4*-S last season. 👀 Eyes on this one!

Big pats and a PB in the dressage here last year in the 4*-S:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Liz and Nutcracker are really straight at they canter up the center line. The halt is good to begin but there’s a bit of a step sideways. Buy boy, can this guy trot! It’s beautifully cadent and has such exquisite movement. Scores coming in are very high. This horse is so soft and supple which he shows off in the lateral movements. They’re comfortably in the lead in terms of the scores coming in at the start of the test.

Cooley Nutcracker is really listening to Liz and is very comfortable in his work. The walk is very secure until there’s a little spook at the camera. It’s tiny though and he’s straight back into some very, very nice walk work for lots more excellent scores.

Wow the halt at C is great, and the reinback is very secure. They go off into canter and there’s a little green moment, but Liz is straight on it and riding excellently, of course. Cooley Nutcracker settles into the canter and shows off just how good he is at all three paces.

There’s so much power on show, a little too much in the changes really. Liz looks a little frustrated at the end of the test, probably being a bit hard on herself. They get a huge cheer. There’s a nice pat for Cooley Nutcracker. Goodness, this is an exciting young horse.

Elisabeth Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker score 30.6 to go into equal second.

2:58pm ET
We’re heading into a short break now. Back in just over 15 minutes – at 3:15pm ET / 9:15pm CEST when we’ll wrap up the dressage at Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event with the final six competitors and see who’ll be going out onto tomorrow’s cross country as leader of the pack.

2:50pm ET
Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This 17-year-old made his 5* debut here back in 2017 and has since been to seven more top-level events. In 2018 he was 5th here at the Horse Park, adding just a smidge of time to his dressage score. He was top 10 at Kentucky and Burghley in 2019, 16th here in 2019 and 12th at Maryland, and 4th at Luhmuhlen in 2022.
đŸ„ˆ Lauren and ‘Bug’ were team silver medalists at the World Championships in Pratoni.
đŸ€© Lauren started out as a working student for David and Karen O’Connor.
📈 Bug sat out last season and came back this year for the 4*-S at TerraNova where he was 14th.
📋 At Luhmuhlen in 2022 he put down a 26.7 in the dressage. He’s also been sub-30 at Burghley and Kentucky, and very nearly at Maryland, where he posted a 30.7 in 2021. At the World Championships in Pratoni he scored 27.1. Eyes on this one 👀

🧀 Say, “Cheese”!

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Bug gets straight to business with a square halt to start. He’s got his ears pricked as he trots ’round the ring. Everything’s in such lovely balance and there’s lots of cadence in his steps. Lauren’s riding really accurately, of course, and showing Bug off to his best.

This pair really do make a lovely picture together, they’re such a team. Bug is clearly well within himself in his work, everything looks really easy. He’s very relaxed in the walk and steps out really nicely. He just steps square in the halt and then beautiful diagonal pairs in the reinback – super work on show here.

They get into canter and it’s more of the same – really lovely to watch and a horse who clearly knows his job. The flying changes are super accurate, expressive but balanced and clean. There’s a momentary mistake in the final chance, it’s clean but not quite at the right time. But my, the stretch circle is good, he takes his nose out and down and is really relaxed.

They come back up the center line and there’s a huge cheer as they halt. Bug looks ’round to acknowledge his applause. Lauren looks delighted with him. There’s even bigger cheers as Bug shows off as they walk out of the ring. Great work Bug.

Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus score 30.6. and go into 2nd place!

2:42pm ET
Rebecca Braitling and Caravaggio II (AUS)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! ‘Ernie’ not Bec – in fact, Bec made her 5* debut in 2003 at Adelaide. She’s back after a 21 year hiatus, now based in the US and ready to take on Kentucky.
😍 The first time she sat on Ernie she just knew she wanted to take him to Kentucky, and here they are!
đŸȘœ We can expect a hustle for a leaderboard climb on Saturday for this pair – in 20 FEI competitions together, they have just one 20 on their XC record.
📈 They were 3rd in the 4*-S at Galway Downs last month.
📋 We’re looking at mid to high-30s in the dressage at 4*.

😁 Smiles all round:

Today’s Test:
Bec and Ernie halt and salute just as the sun beams down on them – this is one shiny horse! This is a very big horse, really impressive. He’s a little wobbly every now and then in his trot work, but he’s a big guy to keep together. His steps are nicely expressive and he looks to be very happy in his work.

He’s nicely relaxed in the walk at the beginning, but there’s a bit of a jiggy-jog coming in towards the end. A couple of anxious moments for Bec but she keeps a lid on it. She’ll be happy to get into canter.

Ernie gets a little pat for reassurance from Bec. He’s happier now he’s in canter but you can tell he’s super fit and ready for cross country. The changes are a bit excited. He doesn’t take the contact forward in the circle and drops back to trot. He jumps the final change.

They halt to a massive cheer and Bec looks incredibly happy with the horse. There was a lot to like and lots of potential on show.

Rebecca Braitling and Caravaggio II score 39.3.

2:34pm ET
Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent (GBR)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This lovely mare made her 5* debut at Luhmuhlen where a green mistake cross country saw her finish in 27th; she came back out at Maryland and took 3rd.
1ïžâƒŁ Oliver is currently World No. 1 and has topped the podium here three times previously.
💯 He’s making his 100th 5* start here, only the third rider ever to rack up a century of top-level showings.
đŸ„‡đŸ‘‘ He won team gold at Tokyo and was awarded an MBE for his services to equestrianism by the late Queen of England in 2022.
📈 From 19 FEI competitions, this mare has three wins, five second placings and three third place finishes, only finishing outside the top 7 on three occasions. Last season she won the 4*-S for eight- and nine-year-olds at Blenheim, finishing on her dressage of 24.7, the only competitor to keep a clean sheet across the board. And she’s still just a 10-year-old!
📋 We can certainly expect a sub-30 dressage score, perhaps even landing in the low-20s – at Maryland she put down a 23.1. Eyes on this one 👀

đŸŒč Queen Rosie’s ready for it:

Today’s Test:
Oliver makes his 100th entrance up the center line in a 5*. He looks like he means business. And so does Rosie, so straight.

Ah, she lifts her head in the halt and then there’s a tiny mistake as they break from the trot in the turn at C. Oliver’s straight on the case though. The scores improve significantly as this mare settles in. There’s so much power in the extended, so confident and soft. They’re totally focused now, both of them doing the job like pros.

Rosie shows her softness in the walk and the steps are all so clean and correct. There’s lots of expression, it really is lovely. The halt at C’s not quite square, just a smidge off. There’s a little mistake in the reinback too. They strike off into canter and deliver a very good change, and then another one. The scores are going up again now.

Oliver rides very boldly as he pushes down the long side, and Rosie comes straight back when he asks, she’s so adjustable. Oh, there’s a mistake as they head back down towards the final center line. That was a shame.

Overall Rosie for sure showed her class today, but there were a couple of mistakes. Lots of pats for her from Oliver at the end and he seems pleased with her efforts. Not their best score, but not a bad one either.

Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent score31.4.

2:26pm ET
Lillian Heard Wood and LCC Barnaby (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This stalwart campaigner has made 13 5* starts in his 12 year career, with 7 top 20 finishes on his record. He’s at the Horse Park for the third time after making his top-level debut here back in 2016. He’s no stranger across the Pond either, having been to both Badminton and Burghley multiple times. He achieved a career-best result at Maryland last season, finishing top 10.
đŸ€– At eighteen, he may be one of the oldest horses here this weekend, but this guy is a total XC machine! In 42 FEI competitions, he’s had jumping penalties just four times.
📈 He was 17th in the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm this season, just adding XC time penalties to his score.
📋 His best score in the first phase, 33, came at Maryland in 2021; at Badminton last season he put down a 39.5.

😍 This guy:

Today’s Test:
I know I’ve said it a number of times, but man I love this horse! They make a straight entrance up the center line and Barnaby’s gets going in yet another 5*.

Ah, the bell has rung. Lillian’s being spoken to from the judging box. We’re just waiting to find out what’s going on. They’ve left the ring now and are walking out. I’ll update you once there’s news about what the judges saw, but it looks like we’re going to move onto the next competitor.

The live leaderboard is showing them as eliminated.

UPDATE: Here’s a statement from Lillian:
“The ground jury decided today that Barnaby looked uneven in his test and eliminated me from the competition. The vets have looked him over back at the barn and there is nothing to report. My best guess is that tension made him take some short steps. I am clearly devastated but I also am happy to have a healthy, sound horse and if there is one thing no one can argue, it is that Barnaby owes me nothing. I am here now to cheer on all my friends competing and will be back as a competitor another day.”

2:18pm ET
Bruce Davidson Jr and Sorocaima (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – 2022 saw them 14th at Maryland and 30th here. They were 9th at Maryland last season and 22nd here in Kentucky. Will they race even further up the leaderboard this time around? In his 19 FEI starts, he’s had cross country jumping penalties only twice, both times at Kentucky – Buck’ll be looking to put that right this weekend.
🏇 ‘Cam’ had a successful career in racing before turning his hoof to eventing, earning over $80,000 on the track. He made his eventing debut in 2020.
📈 Their most recent run saw them finish 11th at Bouckaert Farm a last month.
📋 We can expect a mid-30s score in the first phase – they put down a 36 at Kentucky last year and 34.2 at Maryland.

🐕 Cam jumps a corgi:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
This is truly a gorgeous horse. He looks so impressive as he canters ’round the ring. They’re nice and straight up the center line but the halt doesn’t quite come off, just one more step please Cam. He looks kind of like he’s curtseying to the judge at C as Buck salutes.

Cam seems very happy in the ring as he moves through the trot work. He’s doing everything Buck asks and trying hard. The walk is equally relaxed and, like the trot, could be bigger for the higher marks, but everything’s accurate and correct.

The halt at C is better, Buck niggles to get it square. they strike off into canter neatly and Cam continues in his quiet way – accurate and clean. They swing slightly off center in the change, but it’s true, and the second one is better. The third change shows up a little bit of a loss of rhythm in the front, it’s through behind though and the fourth one is similar.

He comes back up the center line and halts to a cheer from the crowd. Buck gives him big pats and they walk out. Really, this was a clear round for them. Cam was a good boy and tried hard.

Bruce Davidson Jr and Sorocaima score 37.

2:10pm ET
Jennie Brannigan and FE Lifestyle (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This gelding made his 5* debut here in 2021 and came 24th; he returned to the Horse Park the following year for 16th place, and improved that further last year when he was 12th. He was 5th at Maryland in 2022, finishing on his dressage score. He’s also had a trip over the Pond to Burghley where he finished 12th and best of the Burghley first-timers.
🩊 ‘Foxy’ can be a bit quirky and isn’t always easy on the flat, so đŸ€ž he’s feeling settled for his test today.
📈 They were 7th in the 4*-S at Carolina International this season, where they added just 1.6 XC time penalties to their score.
📋 They put down a PB at the level at Burghley last year – 31.1. It was 35.7 here last time around.

😁 There’s no feeling like completing your first Burghley:

Today’s Test:
Jennie’s asking the crowd to stay quiet as she trots Foxy ’round the ring as we wait for the bell. They make a really straight entry down the center line. There’s some licking going on – from Foxy not Jennie – but he settles quickly as they get into the trot work.

This horse is so classy. He moves beautifully and looks really supple and bouncy. There’s lovely elevation in the trot and Foxy is light and soft. The scores are trending higher as the test goes on. There’s lots of suppleness on show in the lateral movements.

Jennie has her trademark smile on her face as they go into the walk. Foxy is relaxed enough throughout the walk although he shows that he’s fit for cross country at the end of the reinback when he really wants to jump into canter. Jennie brings him back and they continue in a nice canter, albeit with a little tension creeping in, just a tiny bit.

There could be a little more bend in the half passes, but Jennie’s riding tactically and making sure that they get the changes. Foxy really seems happy in his work and Jennie’s done a beautiful job.

They halt at the end and Jennie looks delighted. Foxy gets an enormous pat and Jennie’s grinning. She waves to the crowd. A lot of very nice work on show throughout this test, and great riding from Jennie.

Jennie Brannigan and FE Lifestyle score 37.

1:58pm ET
We’re heading into a short break now. Back in just over 10 minutes – at 2:10pm ET / 8:10pm CEST.

1:48pm ET
Andrew McConnon and Ferrie’s Cello (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – ‘Eddy’ made his 5* debut last season at Maryland where they finished 13th.
🎓 This gelding is a YEH graduate, winning the qualifier at Carolina Horse Park and going on to be Reserve Champion at the East Coast Championships.
đŸ„ˆ They represented the US as members of the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team that brought home a silver medal in the FEI Eventing Nations Cup in Poland last year.
📈 They were 14th in the 4*-S at Carolina earlier this season where they added just 6 XC time penalties and a show jumping pole to their dressage score.
📋 We’re looking at low-ish 30s in the first phase based on their most recent form – they scored 33.4 at Maryland and 32.7 at Carolina.

😍 The look of love:

Today’s Test:
It looks kind of windy as Andrew and Eddy canter up the center line. They halt nicely but there’s a little wiggle coming out of it and Eddy comes off the bridle slightly. They push on and seem to get things together very quickly though. Eddy’s got a great uphill frame and there’s lots of power on show. He’s supple in the lateral work – it looks easy – and he’s got a lot of flexibility in the ribcage.

He spooks a little, at a camera it looks like. That seems to start off a bit of tension for Eddy, he’s starting to look rather nervous as he goes through the walk work – his head’s come up and he’s looking around.

He settles better once he’s off into canter. Eddy’s still a little distracted which shows up in the changes. Andrew’s really riding the horse underneath him and adapting to Eddy constantly. He’s very brave in the stretch circle and rides almost on the buckle. They finish up with a square halt and Andrew has a little sigh.

Lots of quality on show here, Eddy was tense and looking round but Andrew did a great job. This is an exciting horse and will have grown from this experience in the Kentucky atmosphere.

Andrew McConnon and Ferrie’s Cello score 37.7.

1:40pm ET
Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH (GER)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! D’Accord FRH, not Christoph, who has a finish on his dressage score for 2nd place at Luhmuhlen on his card with Carjatan S.
đŸŒ¶ïž They come here in hot form having had a win and a 2nd place already this season.
đŸ„ˆđŸ„‡ Christoph’s no stranger to the Championship podium – he has a European team silver and a World team gold to his name.
🧬 D’Accord is related to last year’s runner up, JL Dublin – they have the same sire.
📈 They were 2nd in the 4*-S in Strzegom, Poland this month, adding just 2.4 XC time penalties to their score. The previous month they won the 3*-S in Luhmuhlen, Germany, where they also added just 2.4 XC time penalties to their score. They sure are a speedy pair! They were individually 12th at the 4*-S Nations Cup in Boekelo at the end of last season, jumping clear inside the time in the XC, adding just a single pole in the show jumping to their score.
📋 At 4* we’re looking at low-30s in the first phase.

Shining in Strzegom:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Christoph and D’Accord get their Kentucky underway with a great square halt. They travel across the arena in the medium – massive scope and movement. This really is a lovely stamp of a horse. There’s so much power and rhythm in his trot work and Christoph is pushing for every mark – he’s really riding bravely.

The walk isn’t quite as impressive as the trot, but D’Accord is relaxed and there’s more accurate riding from Christoph. They move off into canter and everything is starting to look a little more safe than earlier. There’s no mistakes but it’s not quite as wow as during the trot work. We see why when D’Accord has a tiny moment, but then he’s right back with Christoph.

There’s some tension going on under the surface. Christoph has just given D’Accord a little pat. He keeps a lid on it though and there’s a sigh of relief in the halt from Christoph. He looks quite disappointed. The test started off really well and looked to be an exciting contender, but there was obviously tension creeping in as it went on. A shame as this horse clearly has potential to spare.

Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH score 34.

1:32pm ET
Joe Meyer and Harbin (NZL)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! Harbin that is. Joe’s actually been to Kentucky (as well as Luhmuhlen, Pau, Badminton and Bughley!) a number of times – this is his 7th start here.
🧬 Here’s a cool fact for you
 Joe’s mom and dad owned the stallion that sired Mark Todd’s Charisma!
đŸ”„ Joe was part of the Kiwi crew at the Beijing Olympics where he finished top-25 individually.
📈 This season they were 3rd in the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm, where they added just XC time to their first phase score, but came back out for the 4*-S TerraNova and had to bow out of the XC due to a technical elimination. They spent some time in the UK last season, where they were 21st in the 4*-L at Blenheim, adding just 4 XC time penalties to their score.
📋 At 4* we’re looking at dressage scores ranging from the mid to high-30s in general, although this pair aren’t averse to dipping a hoof into the 40s sometimes.

There’s always time at an event for a little munch:

Today’s Test:
Wow, Harbin looks beautiful as he trots ’round the outside of the ring waiting for the bell. He’s snow white in the Kentucky sunshine. They canter straight up the center line but then lose the straightness slightly in the halt. This horse really picks his feet up in the trot work, he’s very expressive. He doesn’t always have the balance to match his steps, but there’s a lot of potential on show.

There could be more bend in the lateral work and there’s some loss of rhythm, but Harbin is obviously trying hard for Joe. He’s reasonably relaxed at the beginning of the walk work, but then the tension creeps in. There’s a loss of rhythm and Harbin shortens his neck slightly. There’s a tentative halt at C and then Harbin really shows how hot he’s feeling when Joe asks for the reinback, there’s a bit of an argument. But he does step back and they continue on into canter.

Harbin looks more settled in the canter work. There are still some wobbles, and little mistakes in the changes, but there’s a fair bit of quality on show, this is an exciting prospect for the future for sure; it’s his first time at the level.

The final halt is very nice. Harbin looks very fit and he showed that at times in the ring, but there’s a lot to like about this horse and it’ll be exciting to watch him jumping over the next couple of days.

Joe Meyer and Harbin score 40.4.

1:24pm ET
Mia Farley and Phelps (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This duo burst onto the 5* scene with the only clear inside the time at Maryland last season, which earned them 5th place on their top-level debut.
đŸ’Č Phelps cost $1! Seriously! At EN we think he’s worth his weight in gold!
👀 This pair are ones to watch on Saturday, that’s for sure. From 16 FEI runs there are zero XC jumping penalties on his record – not a single one.
📈 They were 8th in the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm last month.
📋 We can expect a low-30s score in the first phase – at Maryland they put down a 32.9.

Phelps flew ‘round his first 5*:

Today’s Test:
Phelps enters the ring and there’s a trot step or two as they come into the halt. They get off into their test happily though and right from the start look like a partnership that’s on the same page.

Phelps is answering every question Mia asks of hi. He’s obviously trying hard for her. This isn’t a horse with the biggest movement, but everything he’s doing is accurate and neat. He really relaxes nicely at the beginning of the walk. The scores have been increasing consistently as this test has progressed. A little tension creeps in to the end of the walk work, and the reinback isn’t as smooth as it could have been. They strike off into canter and Phelps is back to looking very happy in his work.

The changes are clean but Phelps comes a little bit above the bridle sometimes. He takes the contact in the stretch circle and is really showing that he’s listening to Mia at this point.

There’s a big cheer as they halt at the end of their test. Mia gives Phelps the biggest pat. Overall this was a nice demonstration of a horse and rider working well together.

Mia Farley and Phelps score 33.8.

1:16pm ET
Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – They were 16th at Burghley last season and 13th here at Kentucky. They also completed in 31st place at Badminton in 2022, and had two 5* finishes in 2021 – Maryland and Kentucky, where they finished 24th and 14th respectively.
🧬 ‘Mason’ is the product of two eventer parents – Mighty Magic, who won the Seven-Year-Old Eventing World Championships in 2011 with Andreas Dibowski (who also rode Mason), and Straightaway, a 4* campaigner in her own right.
đŸ€– As we may expect given his parentage, Mason is an out-and-out XC machine. In 25 FEI competitions he has just a single jumping penalty – one.
📈 They were 20th in the 4*-S at Carolina this season where they produced a speedy XC round, adding just 3.2 time faults to their dressage of 37.4. They rolled two poles in the show jumping to complete on a score of 48.6.
📋 Mason is what you could safely call, enthusiastic. Will’s challenge is keeping all that enthusiasm contained in this phase. At Burghley last season they scored the first 10s of the competition for a drool-inducing halt, earning them a career-best sub-30 score. They put down a 35.1 at Kentucky last year and a 38.8 at Badminton in 2022.

😘 There are a few people at Team EN who’d love a smooch from Mason:

Today’s Test:
Mason shows off his twinkle toes as he trots around the ring. He’s truly stunning, and obviously talented, but boy, does he look hot (not in the good way). There’s a fair bit of tail swishing going on. Will pushes for the extended though and Mason really travels across the arena.

There’s clearly a fair bit of tension going on, but Mason is a good boy in the walk – he’s a little speedy and his head comes up a little in places, but there’s no jigging going on. Mason has a little look around in the halt.

They go off into canter and Mason just wants to get quicker and quicker. There’s some very electric looking strides across the arena and Will does really well to get Mason back. He’s having to ride masterfully to deal with all the excitement that’s bubbling over for Mason.

Mason really gets more and more difficult to keep a lid on as the test goes on and Will must be very relieved when he comes to the final halt. Mason looks very pleased with his efforts and obviously can’t wait for tomorrow’s cross country. Will looks incredibly disappointed as he rides away.

Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way score 40.6.

1:08pm ET
Zachary Brandt and Direct Advance (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – Zach and ‘Rosco’ completed here last year in 24th place.
🏆 For that completion, he was awarded the James C. Wofford “On the Rise” trophy.
📈 They were 6th in the 4*-S at TerraNova last month, where they added just 3.6 XC time to their dressage of 39.2.
📋 Their best 5* dressage result was at Maryland in 2022 where they put down a 35.9; they had a hoof in the 40s in 2023. They scored 43.5 here last time around.

#toothpastepants đŸȘ„ 👖

Today’s Test:
Roscoe looks very relaxed as he canters around the ring waiting for the bell. They come up the center line and there’s a few trot steps into the halt. They wiggle a bit as they set off but Zach keeps things together. Roscoe could show a little more bend and suppleness in the lateral work but his trot is nice and rhythmical. They’re not pulling in the top marks but everything is coming up accurately. Zach’s really riding Roscoe sympathetically, keeping him relaxed and soft to the contact.

There’s a little jiggy-jog under the surface of the walk, it’s clear Roscoe would rather be cantering.

Ohhh, Roscoe’s waves at the judges when Zach asks for the reinback. But comes straight back for Zach. That’ll affect their marks although it would have made a cool photo.

Roscoe settles a bit better once the canter starts. The accuracy’s back on the whole, but the changes are tricky for this gelding. The marks aren’t quite so good as in the trot work, but Roscoe is trying and is answering Zach’s questions.

They halt and Zach looks a little pensive. Overall Roscoe did a nice job really, except for that one moment in the halt at C, but he came back to Zach and worked for him for the rest of the test.

Zachary Brandt and Direct Advance score 41.2.

1pm ET
Sharon White and Claus 63 (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! Claus, not Sharon – in fact, this is the 6th horse Sharon’s brought up to 5*.
đŸ„ˆ Sharon and Claus were part of the US team in at the Pan-Ams in Santiago last season and brought home a team silver medal, finishing 10th individually.
📈 They had an unfortunate 20 on the XC in the 4*-S at Carolina this season, which saw them finish in 32nd place. They won the 4*-S at Ocala International last season, where they very nearly finished on their dressage score. They’re no strangers to the Horse Park, having competed in the 4*-S in 2022 when they came 17th.
📋 They had been trending in the low-30s in the first phase at 4*, although they posted a 39.1 at Carolina earlier this season.

Braids for days and a day to remember today as Claus sets out in his first 5*:

Today’s Test:
Here we go – the first of the day! Sharon makes a very straight entrance and nails the first halt – a great start to their competition. Claus really is a lovely mover, really bouncy and expressive. The scores are very good at the start of their test. He could show a little more bend in the lateral work, but there’s a really nice cadence to his trot. This is a horse and rider who make a real picture together.

Claus is very relaxed in the walk. He’s not taking massive steps, but he’s listening to Sharon nicely and doing his best. Another lovely halt at C and very obedient in the reinback. Very seamless work from this pair so far.

They set off neatly into canter and the first flying change comes easily. The second one is also very tidy. Claus is really in a lovely frame and the scores are consistent throughout this part of the test. Everything’s so accurate and considered, really showing what a team they are.

Sharon grins at the end of the test, she looks delighted with her horse and so she should be – this was a lovely test throughout, so much potential on show for this 5* first-time horse.

Sharon White and Claus 63 score 30.7.

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Behind the Barn with Caroline Pamukcu and Hannah Sue Hollberg

By on Apr 26, 2024 10:02 am -

Whose spirit animal is a bald eagle? Does Kentucky have a distinct smell? And how in the world do you pronounce Pamukcu? The most unconventional questions that equestrian journalists don’t have the cojones to ask are answered as Caroline Pamukcu and Hannah Sue Hollberg sit down for episode 11 of Behind the Barn.

Don’t forget you can watch the entire library of these episodes on the Kentucky YouTube channel here.

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Ultimate Guide] [EN’s Coverage]

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on Apr 26, 2024 5:00 am -

Ok gang, heeeeerrrrreeee we go, Dressage Day Two at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, aka The Best Weekend All Year! Pictured looking fly on the trot strip are your current 5* leaders, Yas Ingham and Banzai de Loir, who took the lead late yesterday afternoon with a score of 26. Her compatriot Kirsty Chabert and Classic IV is in 2nd place with a score of 31, while Germany’s Malin Hansen-Hotopp with Carlitos Quidditch K sits in 3rd place, just .1 of a penalty behind Kirsty, on 31.1. If you missed any of yesterday’s action, then head on over to 🌟 EN’s Ultimate Guide🌟 where you will find everything you need to know (and a bit more besides). If you want to get a blow by blow account of yesterday’s dressage action, then I suggest you check out my good pal, Cheg Darlington’s live updates. She’ll be back on it later to day – 5* dressage starts at 12.30 pm (ET) (not the previously advertised 1pm), so make sure you scratch all your afternoon appointments and get settled in for an action packed day.The USA’s Sharon White and Claus 63 will be the first ones up the centre line today, and we’ve still got last year’s runner up, Tom McEwen and JL Dublin to come, so that leaderboard could well see a change at the top…

One last thing before I leave you to go and check out alllll of the coverage we have Eventing Nation: if you do nothing else today, I would highly recommend giving Tilly’s infamous Golden Chinch Awards a read. Sure to make you giggle – or spit out your beverage of choice – it’s good to see our resident fashion critic hasn’t lost her touch.

Now, off you trot to open multiple tabs on your browser:

🌟 A Glance at the 5* Combinations

🌟 Our Epic 5* Form Guide

🌟 The Low-down on the Runners and Riders in the 4*-S

🌟 Our Guide to What’s Happening at the Horse Park

Oh, and remember to check out my gal Cheg’s live updates – not just for today’s dressage session, but all weekend. She’ll be bringing you all the action as it happens for both the 4* and 5* cross country, as well the 5* grand finale on Sunday. I reckon this one will go right to the wire, so make sure you stay with EN all weekend, so you don’t miss a single second.

There will be daily round-ups of every phase, as well as a cross country preview – complete with the riders’ reaction to the course. In case you haven’t got the memo yet, here is that link to all the coverage you will ever need to The Best Weekend All Year.

Don’t forget to check out our socials too – there’s loads of great Instagram content happening courtesy of our team on the ground too @goeventing, not least of all a TREMENDOUS effort from Zach Brandt in Sally’s Swiftie challenge.

Oooh ooh, I almost forgot! Don’t forget to nominate your fave Kentucky #Supergroom – they could win some pretty cool prizes, and let’s face it, they definitely deserve some extra treats!

Enjoy the show, my friends: here’s the link to the livestream – the perfect accompaniment to Cheg’s live updates which is available on ClipMyHorse TV / USEF Network. If you don’t have a ClipMyHorse account or a USEF account, you can sign up for a FREE Fan Membership, which will give you access to the live stream at no cost. Click here to sign up. ClipMyHorse members (including those overseas) can click here to access the live stream.

Now then, let’s GO EVENTING!!!

U.S. Weekend Preview

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Horse Park of New Jersey Spring H.T. (Allentown, NJ) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Loudoun Hunt Pony Club Spring H.T. (Leesburg, VA) [Website] [Entries][Ride Times] [Volunteer][Scoring]

The Event at Archer Spring Fling YEH and NEH (Cheyenne, WY) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

University of New Hampshire Spring H.T. (Durham, NH)[Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

International Events

Ballindenisk International (Ireland) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Timetable] [Eventing Ireland Facebook Page]

Friday News and Reading

So we all know I love a theme, and with that in mind, I am going to *try* to keep this Kentucky heavy. I mean, given the amount of content out there, it really shouldn’t be too hard. SO with that in mind, it seems sensible to kick off with a Kentucky Preview. Yes, yes I am aware we are already well in the midst of the dressage, but still! Tis always fun to have a general overview of an event, and my pals over at the EquiRatings eventing podcast have, of course, just done that. A fun listen, with lots of predictions – some of them wilder than others – it’s the perfect accompaniment to this weekend’s action!

Lucky enough to be going to Kentucky Horse Park in person?! Oh how I envy you! One day, I WILL make it there, but for now, I shall have to be content with watching from home. As for those of you making your first trip to the Best Weekend All Year, here is a handy guide to the event. Tips on where to get the best bourbon chicken (what even is that, asks the Brit in the room), what to bring (a poncho seems to be top of the list), and how to make the most of the event – as in get there as soon as you can, leave as late as you can. Even Boyd Martin has a suggestion for you. Be sure to bookmark this page and make sure that you really do have the Best Weekend All Year!

Ok, so this isn’t actually Kentucky related, but it is 5* related, so technically that still counts?! If anything, I am already thinking of the post-Kentucky hangover we will no doubt all be suffering from come Monday. Here I have the perfect antidote: a glimpse of the next big 5*, coming hot off the heels of Kentucky….Badminton, baby! (sorry not sorry). What better way to whet your appetite than a look at the actual cross country course that riders will face there in May?! It will be available on the cross country app and the Badminton Horse Trials website as of tomorrow – complete with insights from the course designer himself, Eric Winter and some guy called Mark Todd? IDK, never heard of him…

Another tenuous link to Kentucky, but a link nonetheless. 3 time winner of the 5* at Kentucky, and a regular feature on the podium over the years, William Fox Pitt is looking for a rider to join his team. What an opportunity! Run, don’t walk, if you fancy this. I reckon they’ll be an insane amount of applicants for this one.

Ok. Bear with me on this one, in terms of the ‘Kentucky theme’ that I promised. Jessica Phoenix WAS on the start list at one point, with the wonderful Wabbit. I know this, because she was on my list for the form guide at one point. However, she was cross entered at the afore mentioned Badminton, too, and ultimately went with them instead. BUT, she needs our help! She and Meghan O’Donoghue have started a fundraiser to help with the cost of actually getting their horses to the event. To compete at a 5* -especially one as iconic as Badminton – are what dreams are made of, but they’re also a bloody expensive endeavour, so any financial help you could afford to help these two ladies along the way would be very much appreciated. Plus, it’s always fun to see high profile US/Canadian riders flying their flags over here in the UK. Wishing you and your horses the safest of travels ladies, and the best of luck when you get here!

Sponsor Corner

Big news from Stable View! Show Jumping at the May Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Championships will be sponsored and streamed by Horse and Country!

Weekend Watching

Seems a bit pointless to post anything here, other than the link to the Kentucky livestream. But if you do get bored with all of that action (I mean, what is actually wrong with you if that is the case?!) then here is another option for you: an interview with Kirsty Chabert, who is out there in Lexington this weekend with Classic IV, aka Betty. Another (slightly flimsy) link to the Best Weekend All Year – told you I’d keep it Kentucky themed didn’t I?!