Classic Eventing Nation

EN TRENDS:

Camie Stockhausen Hangs on for Dear Life to Win at Roebke’s Run

By Leslie Wylie on Jul 11, 2016 3:00 pm -

Camie Stockhausen nearly snatched defeat from the jaws of victory yesterday at Roebke’s Run H.T. in Hector, Minnesota.

She kindly sent us a video and explanation of what happened: “My horse Best Etiquette (‘Eddie’) and I were holding first place in Open Training after dressage and cross country. Unfortunately, we executed a glorious stop at fence one in show jumping, taking down all the rails.”

In eventing, however, fortune favors those who refuse to go down without a fight.

“With great help from Eddie putting his neck up like Fred Flintstone’s brontosaurus, depositing me onto his withers, I was able to shimmy back into the saddle,” she says. “The kind Minnesota crowd clapped and I waved and smiled, because of course, I planned all that!”

That’s right, Camie! It looked to us like you were just leaning down to give Eddie a big hug.

“The fence was rebuilt and we jumped the course quickly to cover for time added due to sliding through the fence. At the end of all this drama, we won the blue ribbon!”

Many thanks to Camie for sharing and to Jay Stockhausen for the video.

Go Camie and Eddie. Go Eventing!

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By Leslie Wylie on Jul 11, 2016 1:00 pm -

Buying an OTTB straight off of the track yourself and retraining them a new career can be an incredibly rewarding experience if you have the time, resources and experience to do so. But there are other ways to partner with OTTBs in their ex-racing lives, including taking the reins of a Thoroughbred who has already out there making their way in the eventing world.

For this week’s edition of OTTB Wishlist, as we did last week, we’re taking a departure from our usual MO of featuring Thoroughbreds just recently off the track or still very green in their secondary careers. Instead, we’re skipping ahead a few months or even years to spotlight OTTBs available for sale that have already gotten a jump start on eventing.

Here are three OTTBs that are startbox ready, via EN’s classifieds site Sport Horse Nation. We’ve included the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and more information.

Photo courtesy of Katie Murphy via Sport Horse Nation.

Desert Sonorous 2009 SAFE TB Preliminary – Confidence Builder

“Deszi,” whose Jockey Club registered name is Katelyn’s Desert (Wild Desert – Julia Singing Bear, by Diligence), never raced but instead found her calling in the event world. She is the ideal lady’s ride, and would be a lovely partner for someone returning to riding, looking for confidence, or the adult/young rider seeking an experienced horse.

She is elegant under saddle, and soft and supple to the aids. A quiet mind, Deszi is always composed. Her stride is soft and smooth, with a rhythm that is easy to settle into and jump from. She never says no, and does not get frazzled from rider mistakes. Despite her young age, she is incredibly quiet and focused in the ring, on trails, roads, open fields and at competitions. Deszi has extensive Preliminary experience and has competed at two CIC*s.

Sound, sane, and kind, Deszi will build your confidence, keep you safe, and allow you to enjoy the ride.

Located in Epping, New Hampshire.

Photo courtesy of Anne Aryadne Walker via Sport Horse Nation.

Sporty chestnut 6-year-old, actively competing at Novice, upper-level prospect!

Fantastic opportunity to get an excellent horse just as she’s coming into her prime! 15.3-hand OTTB mare — her Jockey Club registered name is Nomorewar (More Than Ready – War Charm, by War Chant). Fun, talented, athletic mare with a superb work ethic. Correctly started, loads of potential. Poised to move up through the levels!

Delta is a bold, careful, straightforward jumper who holds her own rhythm to fences. Doesn’t need a lot of ‘whoa’ or a lot of ‘go,’ more inclined to add a stride then leave one out. Has a great metronome canter over fences, semi-automatic flying lead changes, and is extremely handy. Jumps 3’6’’ at home and has plenty of scope to go higher.

Great mover with an awesome attitude about dressage, consistently scores in the low 30s. Started on leg yield and shoulder-in, loves to stretch long and low. Experienced cross country, jumps ditches, banks, and water — loves it and shows great aptitude! Hacks on the buckle, alone and in groups.

Recently moved up to Novice at schooling horse trial and finished on her dressage score. Primarily focused on eventing, but also excels in jumpers – won her division at a schooling show and loved it! Would excel in eventing, jumpers or hunters.

Perfect for a competent and ambitious junior/AA or young professional — anyone looking for a fun, athletic prospect to move up through the levels.

Delta is sound and a pleasure to work with both in the saddle and on the ground, loves being groomed and pampered. She lunges/ties/clips/trailers and is UTD on everything. Continuing to compete until sold, price will increase with training.

Would not be selling, but we plan to buy a house in the spring and I need to act like an adult and contribute to the down payment. My loss is your gain! Serious buyers feel free to message me for all the details.

Located in Great Falls, Virginia.

Photo courtesy of Mogie Bearden-Muller via Sport Horse Nation.

Lower Level Winner

Urban Star (Carson City – Global Star, by Relaunch) is a 13-year-old, 15.3 -and Thoroughbred gelding. Urban has evented through Novice very successfully. Schooled Training. Very uncomplicated, ready to take his next rider up the levels and be a successful hunter as well.

Urban is a super sweet and always wants to please. Has spent the last few years doing hunters and being a part-time school horse. Started his eventing career by winning his first recognized Beginner Novice in March. A+ Temperament.

Located in Centreville, Maryland.

20 Reasons Why Diesel Trucks Are the Worst

By Leslie Wylie on Jul 11, 2016 11:00 am -

This post originally appeared on EN’s sister site, Horse Nation.

It’s not that I want to drive a truck — I HAVE to drive a truck, in order to haul to shows and perform various horse-ownership duties. But truck ownership has its pitfalls.

My cherry-red 2004 F250 (nickname “Roy”) and I have a love-hate relationship. When it’s just Roy, my ponies and I cruising down the interstate with the windows rolled down, the music cranked up and the throaty purr of that big diesel engine all around us, I wouldn’t trade him for all the sensible sedans in the world.

But the moment I unhook the rig and we re-assimilate into the real world of claustrophobic parking lots and speed limits — Roy is my only vehicle — I want a divorce. Or at least an affair with a Mini Cooper.

20 reasons why trucks are THE WORST:

#1. Cars hogging the diesel pumps when there are plenty of gas pumps open.

It’s like beating someone in a wheelchair to the handicap restroom stall when there are six other stalls open — just bad form.

#2. Fuel price sticker shock.

I know how much it costs to fill up my truck but the wallet-stabbing pain of seeing those numbers, time and time again, never dulls.

How much Roy’s breakfast costs. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

#3. Catcalls from guys in trucks that are smaller than mine (I always feel sorry for those guys): “Hey! Your boyfriend lets you drive that thing?”

Real original, buddy. I’ve only heard that one about a thousand times.

Not.

#4. Just to be equal opportunity, let’s acknowledge that truck-related harassment isn’t limited to females.

#5. Although, seriously, what’s up with all the hyper-masculine, sexually-charged diesel engine names?

Powerstroke, Cummins … um, ewww.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

#6. And then there are the never-ending truck wars.

#7. And the fact that, technically, you share something in common with these people…

…as well as my least favorite demographic, people who drive giant trucks for no good reason:

To their credit, diesel-driving urban-dwellers have it especially rough. For example:

#9. The dirty looks people give you when you pull into a Whole Foods parking lot…

#10. … or up next to a hybrid at a stoplight.

Quit judging me! Do you think I ENJOY spending $4 a gallon on fuel?

#11. Your truck earns a reputation in the neighborhood for scaring small children, tormenting dogs and waking people up when you get home late.

Roy never gets invited to neighborhood cookouts anymore. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

#12. You’re always the first person friends, family and distant acquaintances call when they need a hand.

#13. And it’s not like you can just lend them your truck.

#14. The unfortunate truth is: Your truck can move pretty much anything.

#15. So you help them, because moving is your superpower and with great power comes great irresponsibility.

#15. Other urban inconveniences include parking…

#16. … and having to turn the engine off and lean out the window when you pull up to a drive-thru. It’s easier to just go inside.

Which brings us to #17. You’re constantly tempted to do stupid stuff.

#18. You can be going 90 mph and it feels like you’re just tooling around on a Sunday drive.

#19. Sometimes it’s just too much power to handle.

#20. Careful, though, because everything about truck repair and maintenance is about 10 times as expensive as the car equivalent. At least if you have to sell your house to keep up with payments…

Got truck woes? Feel free to vent in the comment section below. Go Eventing!

Fun Had by All at Sharon White’s Eighth Annual JUMP! Fundraiser

By Sharon White on Jul 11, 2016 9:00 am -

JUMP! is Last Frontier Farm’s annual derby-cross style fundraiser held in Summit Point, WV. In its eighth annual running, the 2016 edition was a huge success with funds raised to support Sharon White’s high performance horses and a fun, educational experience had by all. In our latest Athletux Equine blog, Sharon tells us about the event, which was held on the Fourth of July hence all the red, white and blue mixed in with Sharon’s signature bright orange! Many thanks to Sharon for writing and to Athletux for partnering with us on this blog series.

A JUMP! competitor gets patriotic. Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

Let’s face it, this is a very expensive sport that we all love so much. Fundraising to make your dreams possible can be an exhaustingly daunting task. I for one have an incredibly hard time asking anyone for money or help, yet to excel at the top levels of our sport, we must have a bit of help.

Eight years ago the idea to do the JUMP! fundraiser was born out of a need to raise money to compete overseas. My goal for a fundraiser was to create something that people benefited from and that would be fun and even a bit educational.

JUMP! has really grown into an event I look forward to every year. We offer classes throughout the day from the intro level up. The goal is for it to be fun and helpful as a true schooling opportunity. I coach all day, we have amazing cross country courses that are safe and inviting with water at every level, and even a lead horse for the green horses if they need it.

Go orange or go home! Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

Alongside our classes we also do some raffles, a silent auction and have fun prizes. Being that as many people know, I LOVE ORANGE, we also encourage fun costumes and orange spirit. This year our event happened to also be on the Fourth of July, which certainly added an additional level of fun and gave people another reason to dress in costume.

This event allows me to afford to make a trip overseas during my season, but it is so much more than that! It has become something my entire team looks forward to, and I hope the community looks forward to as well.

I can not thank everyone who donates items, volunteers, and supports the event enough! JUMP! has reminded me time and time again that if you offer people something in your fundraising efforts, it makes it so both you and they can feel good about it.

I look forward to seeing what JUMP! becomes in the future and my team and I are already excited for next year! If you have never been before, we would love for you to join us.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

: Photo courtesy of Sharon White.

Monday News and Notes from Fleeceworks

By Leslie Threlkeld on Jul 11, 2016 12:01 am -

Photo courtesy of Linda Chatfield

Whidbey Island hosted its 40th annual horse trials this past weekend, and organizer Linda Chatfield paid tribute to hometown girl and U.S. Olympic traveling reserve Maya Black with this fence on the cross country course. We’ll all be cheering for Maya and Doesn’t Play Fair as they head to Rio!

In other news, remember when EN teamed up with Fleeceworks to host our inaugural Scavenger Hunt at Rolex? EN readers completed tasks like taking a selfie with a Fleeceworks rider and stopping by the Fleeceworks booth in the trade fair to answer Rolex trivia questions each day, plus bonus challenges like snapping a photo of the elusive John Thier.

The team of Megan Corbett, Lauren Romanelli, Lisa Schapira and Laura Mungioli won the Scavenger Hunt — they even managed to track down John in the media center, which is no easy task! — and will cash in on their grand prize: a clinic with Fleeceworks rider Tamie Smith! Tamie will be teaching the clinic in College Grove, Tennessee, over the weekend of Nov. 19 and 20.

We’ll be bringing you a full report on the clinic right here on EN, and we’re excited to partner with Fleeceworks to bring you more amazing contests like this in the future. Be sure to check out the full line of Fleeceworks pads on their website. Let us know in the comments below: What do you think should be the prize at next year’s Fleeceworks Rolex Scavenger Hunt?

U.S. Weekend Action:

Huntington Farm H.T. [Website] [Results]

Old Chatham H.T. [Website] [Results]

The Maryland at Loch Moy H.T. [Website] [Results]

Chattahoochee Hills Summer II H.T. [Website] [Results]

Roebke’s Run H.T. [Website] [Results]

40th Annual Whidbey Island H.T. [Website] [Results]

Round Top H.T. [Website]

Coconino Summer I H.T. [Website] [Results]

#GMI2016: Website, Final Scores, Live Stream, Instagram, EN’s Coverage

Monday News and Notes:

Peony Vodka has announced its sponsorship of the “Survivor’s Award” at four Area 1 equestrian events this summer: Fitchs’ Corners Horse Trials (July 23 – 24), Millbrook Horse Trials (August 4 – 7), Area 1 Championships at the Genesee Valley Riding and Driving Club Horse Trials (August 15 – 16) and Town Hill Horse Trials (August 27 – 28). Believing that each competitor who finishes is a winner in their own right, the Peony Vodka Survivor’s Award will be presented to the Adult Rider who completes the event – albeit in last place. Leslie Farhangi, the creator of Peony Vodka, a life long horse person and longtime volunteer, said she wants to honor the spirit of eventing and “have a little fun while doing it.” Cheers to you, Leslie!

When it seems as though we live in a more disaster-prone time than ever, having a plan can make all the difference when it comes to your horse’s safety. Our sister site Horse Nation has put together some tips and advice. [Are You Ready?]

When writing out yet another rent check or cringing at the exorbitant costs of land and/or a modest equestrian property, sometimes I consider throwing in the towel on home ownership altogether and living out of my horse trailer. If the living quarters looked like these, the choice would be easy. [13 Spectacular Horse Trailer Living Quarters]

Weekly Business Tip from Mythic Landing Enterprises: If you’re advertising in a print outlet on a budget, be sure to ask the ad manager if there are any discounts for committing to multiple issues for the year. Another money-saving tip is to advertise every other month, as this still keeps your name consistently in front of your audience.

#RoadtoRio

The Land Rover U.S. Eventing Teams takes Gold at the first ever North American FEI Nations Cup at the Land Rover Great Meadow International. Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen also scored the individual win #GMI2016

Posted by United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) on Sunday, July 10, 2016

Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro Unveil New Musical Freestyle

By Leslie Threlkeld on Jul 10, 2016 7:00 pm -

Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro debuted their new Grand Prix musical freestyle at the Hartpury Festival of Dressage which earned them a score of 90.63% and a landslide victory. The music is masterfully organized by Tom Hunt, and with its bold beat and South American flair feels very appropriate for the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro!

Andrew Nicholson is Master of Barbury

By Leslie Threlkeld on Jul 10, 2016 5:00 pm -

Andrew Nicholson and Nereo competing in the Barbury leg of ERM. Photo by Libby Law Photography.

Andrew Nicholson (NZL) has now won five consecutive three-stars at the St. James Place Barbury International Horse Trials. The previous four were with the now retired Avebury and the fifth this weekend with a superb finish in the third leg of the Event Rider Masters Series riding his 2012 London Olympics and 2014 World Equestrian Games mount Nereo.

Andrew and the 16-year-old Caballo de Deporte Espanol gelding owned by Deborah Sellar were third after dressage on a 37.6. They added two time penalties in show jumping this morning, moving into first when overnight leader Marcio C Jorge (BRA) and Lissy Mac Wayer incurred eight penalties, then blazed around the cross country double clear to clinch the £16,000 first prize.

“I really felt the big atmosphere out there today, but this is why I do it, for the people who support me and to win the first ERM class held at Barbury is extra special,” Andrew said. “I felt I was meeting every fence very easily. Nereo is a long-striding horse but he now adapts to whatever he’s got to do. In fact, he feels like Avebury.”

Paul Tapner (AUS) and his and Amand Burns’ 14-year-old Yogi Bear VIII pulled a rail in show jumping but also produced a double clear cross country to finish second in the division and move into second place on the Event Rider Masters Series leaderboard with 63 points.

“Being on the ERM podium has been a main aim for me this season, so I am very happy,” Paul said. “Our Olympic team gets announced tomorrow (Monday 11 July) and we will have to wait and see what happens. Gatcombe is the next ERM leg and I will certainly be there, if I am not in Rio.”

The new Series leader is Gemma Tattersall, who finished on her dressage score of 44.4 with Caroline Teltsch’s 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse Santiago Bay. They were 13th after dressage but two clear rounds moved them up to finish third overall and take over the Series lead by three points.

With the previous ERM Series leader Astier Nicolas (FRA) now third with 59 points, and Jonelle Price (NZL) and America’s own Clark Montgomery not far off on 47 and 46 points respectively, it’s anyone’s game halfway through the Series’ inaugural year. Click here for the full ERM rankings after Barbury.

Dani Evans and Smart Time were also double-clear to move up from 14th after dressage and finish on a 44.6 for fourth. Marcio and his 13-year-old Westphalian mare jumped clear across the country with 5.6 time penalties for a fifth place finish. Sweden’s Hedvig Wik, 32, and Chippieh, a 14-year-old Holsteiner gelding owned by Sara Sjöborg Wik, had a difficult show jumping round with 18 penalties. They dropped to 21st place from second and opted to withdraw before cross country.

As for the North American contingent, Rebecca Howard (CAN) and Blithe Hill Farm’s 15-year-old Canadian Sport Horse Riddle Master picked up an uncharacteristic 20 early on course to finish 23rd. Tiana Coudray (USA) and Jatial, Inc’s 10-year-old Wesphalian mare Sambuca F added a couple of refusals on cross country to finish 27th. In the St James’s Place CIC3*, Kathryn Robinson (CAN) and her own 15-year-old Let It Bee added only time on cross country to finish 15th.

Australia’s Christpher Burton and Polystar, owned by Michaela Sandberg, won the St James’s Place CIC3* in the 11-year-old Westphalian’s first three-star attempt. “I only came here to show him his first three-star competition, not to win!” Chris said. “But I was impressed with his stride and scope – he’s got quite a bit of Thoroughbred blood – and he’s got a good attitude.”

Event Rider Masters: Website, Rankings, Start Times, Results, Live Stream

Barbury Horse Trials: Website, Start List, Results

[5th successive 3 star Barbury win for Nicholson in Event Rider Masters]

Must Read Quotes from the Great Meadow CICO3* Press Conference

By Leslie Threlkeld on Jul 10, 2016 3:20 pm -

USA! USA! Photo by Samantha Clark.

Clark Montgomery, winner of the Land Rover Great Meadow International, presented by Adequan®, and a representative from each of the Nations Cup teams gathered for a press conference following the awards ceremony.

Clark of course had a cracking round with Loughan Glen, owned by Jess Montgomery and Holly and Bill Becker and Kathryn Kraft, to clinch a wire-to-wire win in their first Stateside FEI event since they relocated to the UK two years ago.

While they added only 1.2 time penalties to their score, Clark said Loughan Glen, whom he affectionately called “Beastie,” left the box ready to roll. “I had a couple of hairy moments actually on course today,” he said. “I think because I’ve been riding him quite fast all year he was a little bit unadjustable for me.”

Of course, it’s better to have disagreements at Great Meadow rather than the Olympics in a few weeks and Clark said this was definitely a wake up call. “I had to argue with him a little bit but he’s such an honest horse and wants to jump the fences.”

Top three individuals left to right: Marilyn Little, Clark Montgomery and Jodie Amos. Photo by Samantha Clark.

The Beverly Equestrian Brush Corners caused the most trouble on course and while most of the USA Nations Cup and Olympic Team riders took the left hand option, Clark opted not to take the chance and opted to take the right hand option, which he timed on earlier rides to only take about two seconds longer.

Clark and Loughan Glen certainly met our expectations as the predicted winner of the CICO3* at Great Meadow, finishing on a score in the 30s with three solid phases. However, there now may be even more pressure now to produce a medal performance at Rio. Clark says the key is to “rely on your training and believe you prepared correctly.”

Boyd Martin, who had a fantastic round with his Nations Cup horse Welcome Shadow, who won the Irish Draught Sport Horse Award, and a surprising disappointing round with his Olympic horse Blackfoot Mystery. They were one of six horse and rider combinations to pick up penalties at the brush corners in the arena, feels that Team USA is looking strong before Rio.

“Each rider and each horse have got to polish up bits and pieces of their performance, but Coach David O’Connor is making sure we’re going for it, and I think we have a good chance,” Boyd said.

Team Canada. Photo by Samantha Clark.

In response to Blackfoot Mystery’s two refusals at the brush combination he said, “I’ve been working so hard at the dressage and show jumping and assumed that he’s a cross country machine. It was obviously very very disappointing but at the same time I’m glad it happened this weekend rather than our next outing.”

“You’ll be sure I’ll have a nice brush corner at my farm in Pennsylvania come tomorrow!” he added.

It was a race for second place in the Nations Cup team competition, and Canada ultimately finished ahead of Great Britain when their final horse and rider combination parted ways at the first water. The Canadian Olympic team will be officially announced on Thursday. “The team is feeling really strong and very united and we’re super excited to have the chance to represent Canada at Rio,” Selena O’Hanlon said.

Team Great Britain. Photo by Samantha Clark.

We were thrilled to have Great Britain competing in the first Stateside Nations Cup thanks to the generosity of Great Meadow. Jodie Amos produced one of four double clear rounds today with Wise Crack to finish third. She said, “It’s been a big trip for us but it’s been incredible and everyone’s been massively welcoming. It’s serious experience, lovely services and a lovely venue. Going forward to the future this is going to be a place to watch so we’re really grateful to be here.”

Congratulations to all the competitors and thank you so much to Great Meadow for a superb competition and excellent prep for our Rio riders. Catch up on all our coverage from Great Meadow at this link and thanks for reading!

Go Eventing.

#GMI2016: Website, Schedule, Ride Times, Live Scores, Live Stream, Twitter, Instagram, EN’s Coverage, @samanthalclark

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen Clinch Great Meadow Victory, USA Wins Nations Cup

By Jenni Autry on Jul 10, 2016 1:45 pm -

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen. Photo by Jenni Autry.

U.S. Olympic team members Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen came to the Land Rover Great Meadow International presented by Adequan largely expected to take the Nations Cup win. As the only combination in the competition that can statistically finish on a score in the 30s, they proved every prediction right today, jumping clear with just 1.2 time penalties to take the CICO3* win on 37.5.

The 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Jess Montgomery, Kathryn Kraft, and Holly and Bill Becker, now looks ahead to the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, where he and Clark will enter yet another competition with high expectations to finish on a different podium. Roll on Rio!

Just four horses and riders made the optimum time of 6 minutes and 36 seconds on Mike Etherington-Smith’s cross country course, and the combinations that made quick work of the track were rewarded with big jumps up the leaderboard.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter, a 14-year-old Oldenburg mare owned by Jacqueline Mars, Raylyn Farms and Patrick Witte, found redemption in their first major competition back after Rolex Kentucky, storming around clear and inside the time to move up from fourth to finish in second place on their dressage score of 43.8.

Jodie Amos and Wise Crack, a 12-year-old Arabian/Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Nicola Coates, made their trip across the pond count, jumping double clear to move up from 13th after dressage to finish third on 49.0 as the highest-placed British rider.

Jodie Amos and Wise Crack. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Holly Payne Caravella and Beth Groblewski’s Santino proudly flew the off-track Thoroughbred flag all weekend, never sitting lower than sixth on a leaderboard that showcased the top combinations in the country. A clear cross country trip with 2.8 time penalties boosted them to a fourth place finish on 50.0.

Hannah Sue Burnett made her birthday weekend one to remember, moving up from 17th after dressage with Mary Ann Ghadban’s Under Suspection to finish in fifth place on 50.2. The 12-year-old Holsteiner mare skipped around cross country with just one time penalty to secure her second consecutive top 10 finish in a CIC3*; “Pippy” also finished sixth in the Bromont CIC3* last month.

Holly Payne Caravella and Santino. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Boyd Martin piloted his Nations Cup mount Welcome Shadow, owned by Craig and Gloria Callen, to a sixth place finish thanks to a clear round with 1.6 time penalties. Phillip Dutton and Lauren Kieffer also finished their Nations Cup rides in the top 10; Tom Tierney and Annie Jones’ Fernhill Fugitive added 3.2 time penalties to finish seventh on 50.4, and Marie le Menestrel’s Meadowbrook’s Scarlett crossed the flags just one second over the time to finish ninth on 55.0.

Those three fast and clear rounds combined with Clark Montgomery’s dominant win with Loughan Glen gave the U.S. a sound victory in the inaugural U.S. Nations Cup leg at Great Meadow, taking the win on 138.3. Canada finished second in the standings on 177.6, with Colleen Loach and Qorry Blue D’Argouges finishing in 14th as the best Canadian pair. Great Britain finished third on 254.3.

Boyd Martin and Welcome Shadow. Photo by Jenni Autry.

While today proved to be a success for the U.S. Nations Cup team, the U.S. Olympic squad had mixed results. Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery, who sat in eighth place after dressage, picked up two runouts at the Beverly Equestrian Brush Corners. Lauren Kieffer and Veronica hit the back rail at the New Oxer at fence 12, triggering the frangible pin and picking up 11 jumping penalties.

Only Clark Montgomery and Phillip Dutton delivered clear cross country rounds today for the U.S. Olympic squad, with Fernhill Cubalawn jumping clear with 6.8 time penalties to finish 19th.

The U.S. Olympic reserve riders also had a mixed day. Traveling reserves Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair, who started cross country in second place, also came to grief at the brush corners in the main arena to pick up 20 jumping penalties. Elisa Wallace fell from Simply Priceless at fence 5, the jump into the Adequan Beaver Pond.

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Sinead Halpin and Lynn Symansky both delivered clear rounds for the U.S. Olympic reserve squad, with Manoir de Carneville finishing 10th with 1.2 time penalties and Donner finishing 12th with six time penalties.

Looking to other notable rounds, Buck Davidson jumped clear with 1.6 time penalties aboard Copper Beach, a 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Sherrie Martin and Carl and Cassie Segal, to finish eighth on 50.8. In addition to Marilyn Little and RF Demeter and Jodie Amos and Wise Crack, just two other pairs made the time: Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect (13th) and Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby (23rd).

Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Mike E-S’s course rode well overall, with 90 percent of the 40-horse field completing. In addition to Elisa’s fall, two other riders parted ways with their horses. Ros Canter also fell from Zenshara at the Adequan Beaver Pond, coming unseated on take off at fence 6a. Kate Chadderton fell from Collection Pass at fence 18, the Land Rover Water Complex. All horses and riders are OK.

Eight riders picked up refusals, with the Beverly Equestrian Brush Corners at fence eight in the main arena causing the most trouble by far. Six pairs picked up refusals there: Holly Payne Caravella and Never OutFoxed, Emily Beshear and Shame on the Moon, Justine Dutton and Huck Finn, Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair, Hannah Sue Burnett and Cooley Dream, and Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery.

Colleen Loach and Quorry Blue d’Argouges. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Justine Dutton and Huck Finn also picked up a refusal at fence 4b, the second of the Piedmont Virginian Angled Brushes. Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless had a refusal at the Adequan Beaver Pond before she elected to retire. In addition to Lauren Kieffer and Veronica triggering a frangible pin at the New Oxer at fence 12, Kurt Martin and DeLux Z also hit the back rail to pick up 11 penalties.

The awards ceremony is underway now, followed by a press conference with all of the Nations Cup teams. You can see loads of photos from today on EN’s Instagram, and be sure to re-live all the action in EN’s Open Thread. Keep checking back for quotes from the press conference and much more from #GMI2016. Go Eventing.

#GMI2016: Website, Schedule, Ride Times, Live Scores, Live Stream, Twitter, Instagram, EN’s Coverage, @samanthalclark

Great Meadow CICO3* Cross Country Live Updates

By Leslie Threlkeld on Jul 10, 2016 9:07 am -

Fence 6B: Adequan Beaver Pond. Photo via MyCourseWalk.com.

Here we go! It’s almost time for the first Nations Cup cross country day in the United States! Hopefully you’ve all been following along with this historic event at the Land Rover Great Meadow International, presented by Adequan®. If you need a quick catch up, click here for all of EN’s coverage and visit our Instagram for more of Chinch’s adventures.

U.S. Olympic Team combination Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen are the heavy favorites to win and so far they’ve performed beautifully under pressure. They are in the lead on a 36.3 ahead of U.S. Olympics traveling reserve Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair on 41.4. The U.S. is also leading the Nations Cup team competition with Canada in second and Great Britain third.

You can check out Mike Etherington-Smith’s gorgeous course two ways: Fence by fence photos and drone flyover. The optimum time on today’s course is 6:36. We’ll be posting live updates here for the duration and Jenni and Samantha are on site tweeting and catching photos and interviews to report back later. Remember you can tune in to the live stream on USEF Network as well.

#GMI2016: Website, Schedule, Ride Times, Live Scores, Live Stream, Twitter, Instagram, EN’s Coverage, @samanthalclark

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen win the Land Rover Great Meadow International, presented by Adequan®, leading from the start and finishing on a score of 37.5, and Team USA wins gold in the first Nations Cup team competition to take place outside of Europe!

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen clinch a wire-to-wire win at #GMI2016!

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Jul 10, 2016 at 9:20am PDT

Here are the top ten on the individual leaderboard and the Nations Cup final scores. Stay tuned for a full report and thanks for joining us this morning!

9:00 a.m EST: We’ll be getting underway at 9:30 a.m.!

9:35 a.m. EST: Our trailblazers Phillip Dutton and his Nations Cup team horse Fernhill Fugutive are making easy work of this course so far. We’re loving the commentary from John Kyle and eventing legend James Wofford!

9:40 a.m. EST: Ben Way and Willows Tipster are the first out for Great Britain. Jessie Phoenix and Bentley’s Best were the first out for Canada and they absolutely attacked this course. The live scores have not yet been updated with the first scores.

9:41 a.m. EST: Phillip and Tom Tierney and Ann Jones bring in a clear round for the USA, adding 3.2 time penalties for a final score of 50.4.

9:43 a.m. EST: Jessica Phoenix and Don Good’s Bentley’s Best have 14 time penalties for a final score of 51.8.

9:44 a.m. EST: Holly Payne Caravella and Never Outfoxed are out of the box and absolutely flying. Unfortunately they were off their line at the Beverly Equestrian Brush Corners in the arena and pick up a runout on the B element. James Wofford felt that was a rider error and thinks the corners will be the most significant combination on course.

9:48 a.m. EST: A clear round and 4.8 time penalties to add for Ben Way and Posy Kopanski and Peter Finer’s Willows Tipster.

9:53 a.m. EST: Holly Payne Caravella and Never Outfoxed have only 4.4 time penalties despite a runout at the Beverly Equestrian Brush Corners in the arena. Lynn Symansky and Mary Ann Ghadban’s Cascani having a nice steady round so far.

9:57 a.m. EST: Hannah Sue Burnett and Under Suspection just one second over the time for 0.4 penalties to add for a final score of 50.2. That will move her well up the leaderboard.

9:58 a.m. EST: Kate Chadderton and Rege Dvorsky’s Collection Pass had a problem at the Adequan Drop Complex – a runout at the B element, a wedge at the bottom of a steep incline after the drop, then another runout at the B option. They were clear on the next attempt at the option and back underway.

10:01 a.m. EST: Lynn Symansky, who’s riding Cascani while Allison Springer recovers from a fall earlier this year, had a nice clear but nearly a minute over time for a final score of 82.6. Savannah Fulton and Captain Jack get it done at the Adequan Drop Complex!

Clean and steady round for Cascani at @greatmeadow 3*. #eventing #goodboyAndy #xc #crosscountry

A photo posted by Lynn Symansky (@lynn.symansky.equestrian) on Jul 10, 2016 at 7:35am PDT

10:03 a.m. EST: Unfortunately Kate Chadderton and Collection Pass are eliminated for a fall later on the course, but John Kyle tells us that all is well with horse and rider.

10:04 a.m. EST: Emily Beshear and Shame On the Moon another to fall victim of the corners in the arena. They just couldn’t get the balanced turn to the B element and pick up a runout. We’ve had about equal number of riders taking the right and left side lines.

10:08 a.m. EST: Savannah Fulton and Full Moon Farm Syndicate’s Captain Jack were clear with 16 time penalties.

10:09 a.m. EST: Our sole rider Puerto Rico is on course: Rio bound Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy are clear through the Adequan Drop Complex.

10:10 a.m. EST: The second Nations Cup team rider rotation is under way as Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett take to the course.

10:12 a.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett have a beautiful ride through the Beverly Equestrian Brush Corners in the arena. Like Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive, they take the left hand option.

10:18 a.m. EST: Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy have 12.4 time penalties for a finishing score of 88.5.

10:20 a.m. EST: Justine Dutton and Huck Finn just don’t seem quite organized early in the course. They pick up a runout and Piedmont Virginia Angled Brushes at 4AB. Justine does well to stay on and then kicks him through the first water.

10:21 a.m. EST: And a runout for Justine and Huck Finn at the B element of the corners at 8.

10:22 a.m. EST: Another clear round for Team USA! Lauren Kieffer and Marie Le Menestrel’s Meadowbrook’s Scarlett come home with just 2 time penalties for a finishing score of 56.6.

10:24 a.m. EST: Four time penalties for Waylon Roberts and Anthony Connolly’s Kelecyn Cognac. Hallie Coon and Celien are having a good round so far.

10:30 a.m. EST: Our favorite pocket rocket is on course – Team USA’s traveling reserve Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair are on course! J. Wofford says if “Cody” is ever reincarnated he will come back as a Jack Russell Terrier.

10: 32 a.m. EST: Rats! Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair pick up a runout at the B element of the Beverly Equestrian Brush Corners in the ring.

10:35 a.m. EST: Sharon White and Cooley On Show put in a masterful round for just 1.2 time penalties and a finishing score of 57.2. Hallie Coon and Celien had just 1.6 time penalties for a 59.9.

10:38 a.m. EST: Kurt Martin and Delux Z activate the frangible back rail at the New Oxer at 12. That will be 11 penalty points automatically. But as J. Wofford says, a frangible pin like that “penalizes the horse but protects the rider.” Travers Schick and his building team are now working to reset the pin.

10:40 a.m. EST: There will be a short hold before Phillip Dutton and his Olympic Team horse Fernhill Cubalawn leave the box just to be sure the frangible pin is reset and ready.

10:44 a.m. EST: Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair have 7.6 time penalties with the runout at the arena corners for a final score of 69. Kurt Martin and Delux Z also finish with 7.6 time and the 11 jumping penalties for activating the frangible pin. We’re back underway with Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Cubalawn. They are 18th after the first two phases.

10:46 a.m. EST: Very tide through the Beverly Equestrian Brush Corners for Phillip and “Cuba.” For possibly the first time this morning the jump judge won’t have to replace a flag!

Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett through the corners #useventingteam #GMI2016 A video posted by Land Rover US Eventing Team (@useventingteam) on Jul 10, 2016 at 7:19am PDT

10:58 a.m. EST: 6.8 time penalties for Phillip Dutton and Tom Tierney, Simon Roosevelt and Caroline Moran’s Fernhill Cubalawn. They will finish on a score of 58.2. Boyd Martin and Welcome Shadow are the first Team USA pair to take the right hand side of the Beverly Equestrian Brush corners in the arena.

11:00 a.m. EST: Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect are the first double clear of the day! They finish ten seconds under the optimum time of 6:36 for a final score of 57.1.

11:03 a.m. EST: Very unfortunately Elisa Wallace and Simply Priceless part ways at the first water early on the course. We didn’t see what happened on the live stream but we did see both horse and rider up and walking away.

11:05 a.m. EST: Will Coleman and Tight Lines are clear with 7.2 time penalties in the horse’s first three-star. Doug Payne and Vandiver are on course and clear through the first rider where Elisa had her trouble.

11:09 a.m. EST: Just 1.6 time penalties for U.S. Nations Cup team rider Boyd Martin and Welcome Shadow. That’s three clears and less than six total time penalties for Team USA.

11:10 a.m. EST: Kim Severson and Fernhill Fearless retire after a stop at the first element of the Adequan Beaver Pond at 5.

Boyd Martin and Welcome Shadow finish just four seconds over optimum time. #GMI2016

A photo posted by @useventing on Jul 10, 2016 at 8:07am PDT

11:12 a.m. EST: We’re loving the anecdotes from J. Wofford on the live stream!

11:14 a.m. EST: Commentator John Kyle says he has been fortunate to sit with analysts in many different equestrian disciplines and the common key to success across the board is adjustability of the horse.

11:15 a.m. EST: Just one second over the time for Doug Payne and Debi Crowley’s very tall and rangy Vandiver. They finish on a 55.6.

11:22 a.m. EST: Sinead Halpin and Manoir de Carneville are three seconds over for 1.2 time penalties. Marilyn Little and RF Demeter, fourth overnight, are on course.

11:26 a.m. EST: Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby are the second of the day to go double-clear. They finish on their dressage score of 63.8.

11:31 a.m. EST: Canada’s third team rider is on course. Colleen Loach and Peter Barry’s Qorry Blue D’Argouges are having a cracking round so far. RF Demeter, owned by Jacqueline Mars, Raylyn Farms and Patrick and Eileen White are double clear and move into the lead on 43.8.

11:34 a.m. EST: Colleen Loach and Qorry Blue D’Argouges activate the frangible pin at the second water. That will be 11 jumping penalties. If Great Britain’s Jodie Amos and Wise Crack go clear then GBR could take silver over Canada.

11:36 a.m. EST: 1.6 time penalties for Buck Davidson and Sherrie Martin and Carl Segal’s Copper Beach.

11:39 a.m. EST: Just a bit of inexperience for Hannah Sue Burnett’s Cooley Dream. They pick up a stock at the first element of the Beverly Equestrian Brush Corners on the left side. They are clear on the second attempt taking the right side option.

11:40 a.m. EST: Colleen Loach and Qorry Blue D’Argouges are clear with 3.6 time penalties for Team Canada.

Colleen Loach and Quorry Blue d’Argouges looking super for the Canadian Nations Cup team #GMI2016 A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Jul 10, 2016 at 8:35am PDT

11:41 a.m. EST: Jodie Amos and Nicoal Coates’ Wise Crack are clear and inside the time. There is one rider left in the Nations Cup rotation, and it’s a race for second and third place!

11:48 a.m. EST: Oh! Veronica leaves long at the New Oxer at 12, activating the frangible pin on the back rail. That’s 11 penalties to add to their score and will move them down the leaderboard from third place.

11:50 a.m. EST: Holly Payne Caravella and Santino had 2.8 time penalties for a final score of 50. Canadian rider Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance have been held on course while the builders reset the frangible pin at 12.

Holly Payne Caravella and Santino showing how off-track Thoroughbreds get it done! #GMI2016

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Jul 10, 2016 at 8:50am PDT

11:54 a.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Team Rebecca LLC’s Veronica are in 13th in the clubhouse after incurring 11 penalties for the frangible pin and another 2.8 time penalties. Jessie Phoenix and A Little Romance are back under way now. We’ve only six horse and rider combinations to set out on course including our leaders Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen.

11:57 a.m. EST: The formatting of some of the text above has gotten a little wonky. I’ve fixed it several times and give up until we’re done here. Sorry, guys!

12:06 a.m. EST: A runout at fence 8 on the left and then a hard stop on the second attempt on the right side for U.S. Olympic Team rider Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery. They’re clear through the Beverly Equestrian Brush Corners on the third attempt and boy does that make us all a bit nervous.

12:08 a.m. EST: Lynn Symansky and Donner are clear with 6 time penalties for a final score of 56.8. Our leader Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen are on course and NO the live stream has failed on me!

12:10 a.m. EST: Jessica Phoenix and Anita Leschied’s A Little Romance were clear with 3.6 time penalties after they were held on course for a frangible pin fix. Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen (live stream back up now!) are clear through those tricky corners in the arena.

12:12 a.m. EST: Just stunning work through the Adequan Bank Complex for Clark and Loughan Glen. Phillip Dutton and the HND Group’s Mighty Nice had 9.2 time penalties.

12:15 a.m. EST: Clark and Loughan Glen jump through the USEA Hollow like it’s a gymnastics exercise. Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High for Canada are on course and need a good round for the Nations Cup Team.

12:18 a.m. EST: Rosalind Canter and Zenshera get a dunking in the Adequan Beaver Pond at 5. That is a very unfortunate elimination and means Team Great Britain will take third in the Nations Cup competition.

12:19 a.m. EST: Clark Montgomery and Jess Montgomery Holly and Bill Becker and Kathryn Kraft’s Loughan Glen are the confirmed winners of the Great Meadow International CICO3* with 1.2 time penalties for a final score of 37.5 and Team USA wins the Nations Cup team competition!

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