Classic Eventing Nation

Heath Ryan (AUS) Suspended 18 Months by FEI Tribunal After Horse Abuse Investigation

By on Aug 31, 2026 9:00 am -

Australian Olympic rider Heath Ryan has been issued an 18-month suspension by an FEI Tribunal — backdated to June 12, 2025, which means the suspension will end on December 12 of this year — following a decision on a horse abuse case that originated on social media in June of 2025. The video, which was found to be from May of 2023, depicted Heath hitting a horse named Nico more than 50 times. In the wake of the video being posted online, Heath initially issued a statement on his own social media, describing the horse as one that had seriously injured his owner and was on the path to euthanasia. He also stated that the video had been published by a disgruntled ex-employee.

“The FEI Tribunal concluded that Ryan engaged in horse abuse pursuant to Article 142.1 of the FEI General Regulations, bringing both the FEI and equestrian sport into disrepute,” a statement issued by the FEI on August 28 says. “He has furthermore breached the FEI Code of Conduct for the Welfare of the Horse pursuant to Article 164.12(i) of the FEI General Regulations. In its Final Decision, the FEI Tribunal suspends Ryan for a period of eighteen (18) months, starting as of the date of the Provisional Suspension imposed on him on 12 June 2025. Consequently, his suspension will end on 12 December 2026. Ryan is also ordered to pay a fine of CHF 3,000 and a contribution of CHF 3,000 towards the FEI’s legal costs.”

The decision comes after months of investigation and procedural elements, which include an attempt by Heath and his legal team to file with Australian national courts to halt the FEI Tribunal’s proceedings via an Australian court injunction, arguing the Tribunal lacked jurisdiction to discipline him. He contended the FEI lacked jurisdiction because the session was private, involved a non-FEI-registered horse, and wasn’t tied to any FEI event — an argument the Tribunal itself rejected in its jurisdictional ruling. He separately sought injunctive relief in Australian courts, including on the question of the Tribunal’s jurisdiction, though the specific grounds argued there aren’t detailed in the tribunal’s decision.

In his team’s arguments to the FEI Tribunal, Heath said that he used FEI-recognized Equitation Science principles (negative reinforcement with escalation), that the horse was in “conflict behaviour” rather than a fear state, and that the horse’s later successful rehoming proved the method worked.

His defense leaned heavily on training science, not just the horse’s history. He argued he had applied recognized Equitation Science principles — specifically negative reinforcement with progressive escalation of pressure, a widely used method in which pressure is released the moment a horse gives the correct response. He maintained the horse was displaying “conflict behavior” (resistance, kicking out, tail-swishing) rather than a genuine fear response, and pointed to the horse’s outcome — successfully re-homed and ridden without incident since — as proof the method had worked.

It’s a defense that borrows real, recognized terminology from an actual scientific framework. But that same body of research contains warnings that cut the other way. Equitation scientists have long cautioned that negative reinforcement only works ethically with precise timing: pressure has to stop the instant a horse responds, or it stops functioning as training and becomes de facto punishment. Researchers have also warned that what looks like a “successful” outcome — a horse that eventually stops resisting — can actually reflect learned helplessness, not genuine compliance, when an animal is subjected to sustained or inescapable pressure.

This is close to the argument the FEI’s own expert made. Equine veterinarian Dr. Rachel Murray concluded in her report that the whip strikes were delivered continuously and “without allowing the Horse time to respond,” finding the technique had “no rational training value” under recognized learning theory. The FEI’s claim went further, arguing that “obedience obtained through abuse is not a success but reflects the prioritisation of the Horse’s use over its welfare” — a framing that echoes, almost precisely, the same caution found in the equitation-science literature Heath cited in his own defense.

There is no confirmation in the decision documents (which can be read in full here) that the individual who submitted/posted the video was interviewed by the FEI or the FEI Tribunal. Heath, along with some of the nine witnesses who provided character statements in his defense, maintained that the video was submitted with a vindictive intention. A third party, Quest Global, confirmed that no evidence of editing or other manipulation of the video was found.

[Read the full FEI Tribunal decision here]

Monday News & Notes from Equine Discounts

By on Aug 31, 2026 12:01 am -

We’re all wrapped up with the USEA American Eventing Championships, presented by Nutrena, which were held this year at the iconic Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. The AEC will also return to the Horse Park in 2027; right now, we don’t yet know the location of the AEC beyond next year but we’ll be eagerly anticipating news on that.

Here’s a look at Sunday’s coverage from #AEC2026:

The Road to AEC Gold Ends in Victory for Six Beginner Novice Champions

One Ear, One Incredible Journey: Mustang Makes His Way to the AEC

Major International Event Results

Scone Palace International HT CCI4* (GBR): [Website] [Scoring] [Live Stream Replays]

FEI Eventing European Championship for Young Riders & Juniors (SWE): [Website] [Scoring] [Live Stream Replays]

US Events This Weekend

USEA American Eventing Championships, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final, and ATC Finals (KY): [Website] [Scoring] [Live Stream Replays] [EN’s Coverage]

Equestrians’ Institute HT & Area VII Championships (WA): [Website] [Scoring]

Seneca Valley PC HT (MD): [Website] [Scoring]

Bucks County Horse Park HT and YEH Qualifier (PA): [Website] [Scoring]

Other Links & Reading

Sponsor Corner: 25% off Big Ass Fans before summer winds down

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Here’s the reminder before the month closes out: USEF and USEA members are eligible for up to 25% off Big Ass Fans through Equine Discounts. And even if you’re not a USEF or USEA member, a paid membership to any local or national equine association qualifies you to save!

Call 877-576-6872 or visit EquineDiscounts.com to lock in your discount.

Training Tip of the Day

A few test-riding tips from our friends at Ride iQ:

Go Eventing

Take a look back on the FEI Eventing World Championships and that USA bronze medal with U.S. team chef d’equipe Leslie Law on the Jon and Rick Show:

Sunday Links

By on Aug 30, 2026 12:01 am -

Before we get rolling on the final day of the USEA American Eventing Championships, presented by Nutrena, let’s round up Saturday’s action! Here are a few links to stories from Saturday, thanks to our friends at the USEA:

A Day to Remember for Six USEA Novice Champions at #AEC2026

Beginner Novice and Starter Competitors Conquer Cross-Country at the #AEC2026

Four Breeds, One Team: Meet the Adams Horse Supply USEA ATC’s “Variety Pack”

Today, we’ll see our Beginner Novice and Starter competitors wrap up their weekend with show jumping, so there’s much more to come! You can follow along with timing and scoring here.

Major International Events This Weekend

Scone Palace International HT CCI4* (GBR): [Website] [Tickets] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

FEI Eventing European Championship for Young Riders & Juniors (SWE): [Website] [Schedule] [Entries] [Ride Times/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

US Events This Weekend

USEA American Eventing Championships, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final, and ATC Finals (KY): [Website] [Schedule] [Program] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [USEA AEC App] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Equestrians’ Institute HT & Area VII Championships (WA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map]

Seneca Valley PC HT (MD): [Website] [Entries] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Bucks County Horse Park HT and YEH Qualifier (PA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Links & Reading

Training Tip of the Day

Even if you aren’t riding at AEC this week, you can always study up on your cross country with CrossCountry App! In this video, USEA Eventing Coaches Program mentor Emily Mastervich walks us through a Novice-level jump on a mound:

Go Eventing

The best story out of #AEC2026:

Piggy Marches On in Scone Palace International CCI4*-L

By on Aug 29, 2026 7:00 pm -

Piggy March and Cooley Anything You Like. Photo by SPIHT/Peter Nixon.

Piggy March continued her hot streak of form at Scone Palace to leapfrog up to first place after cross-country in the CCI4*-L aboard Cooley Anything You Like. She also holds top spot in the two-star ahead of showjumping.

She was one of only three pairs clear inside the time over Alec Lochore’s track, lifting her from fourth after dressage.

“He is an out-and-out Badminton and Burghley horse – so powerful, brave and he has such gallop,” said Piggy. “I was very grateful for the long uphill gallops because he is a machine – it’s just difficult getting him back for the downhill ones!”

Piggy “tried new tactics” today, going directly from the stables to the startbox because the 11-year-old can find the warm-up arena exciting.

“I lobbed round the bottom field and went straight out on to the course before he realised what was going on, and he started very settled,” she said.

Piggy does not have a showjumping rail in hand over Willa Newton and Hartacker, the dressage leaders, who added 8.4 time-faults.

“He was amazing; I’m just kicking myself for the time-faults,” said Willa. “He’d had a horrid winter with his sinuses and teeth and only started eventing in July, so I didn’t know quite how fit he was, so although I’m a bit gutted to lose the lead, he was brilliant.”

Izzy Taylor, fifth after dressage, is 2.1pen behind in third on SBH Big Wall after clocking 4.8 time-faults – and sixth on new ride PSH Encore. Izzy is on the comeback trail after a broken femur kept her on the sidelines until the summer.

“This is my first ‘long’ since, and there were a lot of questions – am I fit enough? Are the horses fit enough?” Izzy said. “I’m still rusty, but the ride he gave me today was really good. The course was great and a real improvement on last year – smooth but you had to work for it, and beautiful ground.”

Two U.S. riders are in the top 10 after cross country, with FEI Eventing World Championships pair Quidley Kellerman and Blakeney’s Cruise jumping clear with time to go into eighth overnight on a 44.6, and Molly Duda with Jutopia jumping clear into ninth on a 47.9 in the mare’s first CCI4*-L effort.

“Special” Muze Holds the CCI4*-S Advantage

Gemma Stevens and Cooley Park Muze. Photo by SPIHT/Peter Nixon.

Gemma Stevens cemented pole position in the CCI4*-S with a breathtaking showjumping clear with Cooley Park Muze, the final horse to enter the Scone Palace International Horse Trials main arena. Mindful of the tight time, Gemma saw a long stride at the large Subaru oxer at fence seven, and the 10-year-old bay soared effortlessly over – then nimbly popped the following upright.

“I came round the corner to that blue oxer, thinking about the time and trying to give him enough space, but I saw a bit too much space! But he was lovely,” said Gemma, who was part of Britain’s gold medal-winning team at the recent World Championships in Aachen, Germany.

“I was a little bit nervous beforehand, not because the course was difficult but because I so want to do well. He is such a good jumper, and he’s a very special horse.”

Gemma is also lying in fourth and seventh, with the Chilli Morning clone Chilli Morning IV and Chilli’s Jester.

“My other two horses were unbelievable as well – all three are lovely, lovely horses.”

Breathing down Gemma’s neck just 0.2 of a penalty away in second is Emily King, who jumped clear on her Luhmühlen runner-up Valmy Biats.

Scotland is represented in third by local rider Wills Oakden and Keep It Cooley, who also left all the coloured poles up.

Sixty percent of the 99-strong field showjumped clear, but only 35% were inside the time.

The leaderboard is tightly packed, leaving little margin for error for those contending for the £1,500 first prize. Just 1.9 penalties – or five seconds of cross-country time-faults – covers the top six.

Scone Palace International HT CCI4* (GBR): [Website] [Tickets] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

Saturday Links from Morven Park International

By on Aug 29, 2026 12:01 am -

We may have wrapped up the Advanced division last night at the USEA American Eventing Championships, presented by Nutrena, but there’s still much more action to come today and tomorrow as our Starter and Beginner Novice championship contenders complete their weekends!

You can still follow along today on Horse & Country for live streams from the cross country and show jumping phases happening today, and if you’re a score-stalker like us, you can do so here.

Best of luck to all competitors who worked so hard to get to this incredible event. Let’s finish the weekend strong!

Major International Events This Weekend

Scone Palace International HT CCI4* (GBR): [Website] [Tickets] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

FEI Eventing European Championship for Young Riders & Juniors (SWE): [Website] [Schedule] [Entries] [Ride Times/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

US Events This Weekend

USEA American Eventing Championships, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final, and ATC Finals (KY): [Website] [Schedule] [Program] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [USEA AEC App] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Equestrians’ Institute HT & Area VII Championships (WA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map]

Seneca Valley PC HT (MD): [Website] [Entries] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Bucks County Horse Park HT and YEH Qualifier (PA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Links and Reading

Sponsor Corner: Morven Park Fall International CCI & H.T. Entries are Open!

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

This week marked opening day for entries to the Morven Park Fall International CCI & H.T. taking place in Leesburg, VA October 8-11. FEI levels, including the US Equestrian Open of Eventing and the USEA/USEF Developing Horse National Championship, are available and it’s promising to be one of the best weekends of the eventing season here in the U.S. You can start planning your competition or spectating weekend here.

Training Tip of the Day

Kai-Steffen Meier is back with more advice, this time on the essentials every rider needs to bear in mind for cross country:

Go Eventing

A perfect Friday night at AEC under the lights:

Boyd Martin and Shanroe Cooley Crowned Adequan Advanced Champions at USEA AEC

By on Aug 28, 2026 11:25 pm -

Boyd Martin and Shanroe Cooley. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Boyd Martin hasn’t had a rail with the 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding Shanroe Cooley in five starts at the four-star level, and he’s a consistent show jumping rider in general. With a rail’s cushion in hand after cross country at the USEA American Eventing Championships, presented by Nutrena, it would be safe to say that Boyd came into Rolex Stadium, ablaze at the end of golden hour and buzzing with a packed hospitality tent, feeling buoyed by confidence.

Clear rounds had been hard to come by in the 18-horse field to that point. Bobby Murphy set the courses for our AEC competitors this weekend, and a technical track that kept horses and riders on their toes with most fences set after a turn as well as the complicating factor of the setting sun exerted influence. Two pairs — eventual second-place finisher Mary Bess Davis (Imperio Magic) and Elisa Wallace (Lissavorra Quality) — secured double clears, and just three others had left all the poles where they belonged but incurred time penalties.

Boyd Martin and Shanroe Cooley. Photo by Sally Spickard.

So that rail in hand may have come in handy, should Boyd have needed it. But he didn’t. One second’s worth of a time penalty was added to his overall score with Shanroe Cooley, who is owned by Dallas LLC, but not so much as a pole was touched on their trip around, giving Boyd another Adequan Advanced Championship and the lion’s share of the $60,000 prize fund. He and “Dallas” end the weekend on a score of 40.5.

“He’s brilliant. I mean, he’s a fantastic jumping horse,” Boyd commented. “At all the the big shows that are really important, he seems to prance out there and jump like a stag. I felt like he jumped the course really well. We had a good warm-up, and [I’m] very pleased with him tonight.”

Shanroe Cooley already has a five-star podium finish under his belt, earned at Luhmühlen earlier this year. The maturity event horses often leave their first five-star with is something Boyd feels is evident in Dallas now. “I just think he’s evolved and and matured and developed a lot since Luhmühlen five-star, and I think that was a great turning point in our career,” he elaborated. “Sometimes when you do those big five-stars, it can rattle the horse, [but] in this case, it’s made him stronger and and more seasoned. So I must say, all three phases this weekend with Dallas, he just felt like a more established, mature horse.”

Liz Halliday joins Boyd for the prizegiving. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The evening was complemented by a special appearance by Dallas’ former rider, Liz Halliday, for the prizegiving ceremony. In fact, the first thing Boyd did upon exiting the stadium was to call Liz and tell her to scoot her boot down to the prizegiving. “We need her in there,” he told her team.

Photo by Sally Spickard.

It’s bittersweet, to be honest, seeing Liz now. It’s overwhelmingly incredible to see how well she is doing, but the shadow of the accident she had here at this event two years ago nearly to the day still lingers. I admire the strength she has (which is, of course, utterly unsurprising, if you know Liz at all) and the pure joy she feels when she’s around the sport now. We can all learn a thing or three from her, her embracing of life as it is. And you’ll be unsurprised to hear that she’s already planning her LA28 Paralympics campaign, so this is certainly not the last we’ve seen of Liz in an arena.

Above all, it’s nice to have her back, here with us. We won’t ever stop being grateful for that.

Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Mary Bess Davis capped off a weekend of redemption by jumping her way up from fourth into second (44.3) thanks to that aforementioned double clear with her own Imperio Magic. I wrote a little yesterday about Mary Bess’ journey back from a nasty injury that, while not the most serious injury she’s ever had was certainly among the lengthiest in terms of recovery. It was discouraging enough that Mary Bess briefly considered hanging it up for good. “I told my husband I’m quitting, I’m tired of hurting, and he’s like ‘let’s just give it time’ — he always says that — and of course, like two days later I was back in with everything, planning where I wanted to go.”

Between that and the niggling little inconsistencies she’d experienced with this horse over the past season or so, Mary Bess came into the weekend armed and ready.

Her secret weapon? The one and only Karen O’Connor, who has been in Mary Bess’ corner for many years, but has been present more recently. “I called Karen and told her I wanted her everywhere with me,” Mary Bess said. “She talked to me coming into this [weekend], and she said ‘you’ve got to learn how to win. You’re competitive. You have to learn how to win,’ and I was like, well, that’s important. And so we came into this and really focused hard on every aspect of the show and performance, and it really paid off. It was really important that she had that conversation with me, and then we applied it all week.”

Mary Bess laughs when she thinks back on her clear round, which she describes as “a little wild.”

Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic. Photo by Sally Spickard.

“He’s just an amazing little horse, and he goes in there and he knows that he wants to perform and show everybody what he’s about,” she said. “And you have to hold on because he gets wild, and he’s like, ‘Hold on, mom!’ I didn’t have time to shorten my reins. I was like, ‘This, this is getting wild!’ and he was just like, “Girl, I’m taking you for a ride!'”

“McColl” doesn’t have the most traditional jumping form, but he certainly doesn’t typically come close to touching a rail, reminding us a little of Emily Hamel’s Corvett in this phase. For Mary Bess, who only has this one horse at the upper levels and not really any others, aside from a few client horses, this result is all about becoming more consistent. Allowing the horse to be who he is is a part of that, and the partnership she’s established with him enables her to keep chipping away at those little one-percent details.

“I want to be consistent everywhere I go, and I don’t want to have any of these mountains and valleys that I’ve kind of been having on and off,” she said. “I want to have a full season of competitive success, so that’s our goal, and hopefully we’ll just keep on.”

“I think all the time about when I was younger and I had three Advanced horses at the same time and I could not get it wrong — I was just on fire,” she had told me yesterday. “And so I think about that a lot, but I will say if you’re going to be on something you would want to be on him because he’s just so careful and I’m so confident with him. I know him so well now and he makes it easy for me to trust and believe.”

Maya Clarkson and Maks Mojo C. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Maya Clarkson didn’t quite have the jumping round she hoped for tonight with her own Maks Mojo C, lowering two rails but finishing within the time allowed for third place and a score of 51.1, but she remained pleased with the improvements she did feel across phases this weekend. “Maks” is a bit more of a one-rail horse, if he’s going to have a rail, so two tonight was disappointing — and something Maya takes the responsibility for — but the weekend served its purpose as a set-up for Maya’s yet-to-be-finalized fall plans.

“The rails where my fault, and I was bummed about them, but that’s okay,” Maya said. “It was our both of our first time actually jumping in this ring together, so I was pleased. He jumped the same he does in every other ring, and I was a little bit just not quite on my game, so that was on me. But he was fantastic both yesterday, and dressage was probably the best test he’s ever done, even with a couple mistakes. And then the cross country, he made it feel so easy. Advanced on him, in the past, has been not always that easy. The horse has the biggest heart of anything I’ve ever ridden, and will just find the flags regardless of what position I’m in. But it was nice to have pretty much all of the round feel really smooth yesterday. So I was really proud of that and proud of him today.”

The recipient of the 2026 Wilton Fair grant, Maya has yet to finalize her plans for whether she’ll go overseas this fall or hold off. She’ll also be eyeing a five-star move-up at some point in the coming seasons, so her ongoing production of Maks Mojo C will be done with this larger picture in mind.

Katie Lichten and HTS Jensen R. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Here’s a look at our final top 10 in this Adequan Advanced Championship:

Keep scrolling for further updates from #AEC2026! I’m signing off from the Advanced division, but will be bringing you end-of-day round-ups from our remaining two days of competition, which will finish off our Starter through Novice divisions.

USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final, and ATC Finals (KY): [Website] [Schedule] [Program] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [USEA AEC App] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Many thanks to Ride EquiSafe, Freejump (both here on site at the Ride EquiSafe trailer on the back side (facing the barns) of Vendor Row!) and the American Connemara Pony Society for their support of EN’s 2026 AEC coverage!

Friday at #AEC2026

Novice riders took on cross country on Friday. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Here’s a look at your full leaderboard for the divisions still running on Friday:

ARMA USEA Training Amateur Championship: Jane Musselman and Corleone Tops (27.8)
ARMA USEA Training Horse Championship: Meghan O’Donoghue and Chepfly (27.6)
ARMA USEA Training Junior Championship Winner: Caden Carter and FE Santos (29.2)
ARMA USEA Training Rider Championship Winner: Catherine Ramsey and Cakewalk (30.0)
USEA Novice Amateur Championship: Hannah Reeser and Ltl Ireland Summr Soldier (24.3)
USEA Novice Horse Championship: Chris Talley and HTF All Eyes On Me (25.6)
USEA Novice Junior Championship: Elliot Bizjak and N’Pressive (28.7)
USEA Novice Junior 15yo & Under Championship: Emmeline Tinsley and RL Horus (27.6)
USEA Novice Master Amateur Championship: Jane Musselman and Cayr Della Caccia (24.5)
USEA Novice Rider Championship: Kirsten Wood and Sophia Tharseo (25.3)
Marshall + Sterling USEA Beginner Novice Amateur Championship: Ashley Anderson and Global Jedi (25.9)
Marshall + Sterling USEA Beginner Novice Horse Championship: Megan Correia-Bittner and Lamborghini (22.5)
Marshall + Sterling USEA Beginner Novice Junior Championship: Lauren Collett and Cozywing (26.6)
Marshall + Sterling USEA Beginner Novice Junior 14yo & Under Championship: Skylar Ragsdale and Finnegan’s Irish Dream (28.1)
Marshall + Sterling USEA Beginner Novice Master Amateur Championship: Kendra Moss and Presidential Nominee HU (27.3)
Marshall + Sterling USEA Beginner Novice Rider Championship: Madeline Bletzacker and Drummer Boy (27.7)
USEA Starter Amateur Championship: Kirsten Hiles and Beatrix SWF (25.3)
USEA Starter Junior Championship: Shelton Repetto and Accordingly (25.8)
USEA Starter Rider Championship: Katrina Davis and Paint Misbehavin’ (23.9)

USEA #AEC2026 Coverage

Chris Talley and FE Marco Polo. Photo by Sally Spickard.

First Impressions Count for Beginner Novice and Starter Leaders at #AEC2026

ARMA USEA Training Champions Make Their Mark at the Kentucky Horse Park

Novice Riders Take on Cross-Country at the #AEC2026

Addie Singleton’s Make-A-Wish Brings Her Back to the Horse She Loves at the AEC

Instagram Round-up: Friday at #AEC2026

Willa Newton Leads CCI4*-L, Cooley Park Muze Spearheads a Gemma Stevens Bonanza at Scone Palace International

By on Aug 28, 2026 2:42 pm -

Willa Newton and Hartacker. Photo by SPIHT/Peter Nixon.

Willa Newton has taken a commanding lead in the CCI4*-L, riding Camilla Behrens’ 14-year-old Hartacker. Third in the CCI3*-L in 2025, the pair returned to Perthshire to record the only sub-30 mark in the class of 27.6. Molly Duda, who represented the USA at the FEI Under-25 World Championships in Millstreet last month, lies in second on 31.5 aboard Jutopia.

Leicestershire-based Willa has been riding Hartacker since the start of last season, with the horse being produced up to four-star by Izzy Taylor.

“He has always been pretty good at dressage but I was just pleased everything came off how I wanted it to,” said Willa, who is trained in this phase by Bettina Hoy. “I really enjoyed every minute. I am so grateful to Camilla for letting me ride him and I feel like I’m starting to know him better.”

Hartacker’s highlight was his flying changes.

“He was so soft and relaxed,” Willa said. “He’s an old-timer now but he can sometimes anticipate things, whereas today he was really rideable.

“There’s a lot of atmosphere, which actually helped me a bit. He was calm outside and I wondered if I’d overdone it, but he went in and felt lovely. He’s such a nice character – he has his quirks and you have to be quiet around him but he’s the kindest person and very happy to be here.”

Willa added that she is “looking forward” to the cross-country test, designed by event director Alec Lochore. “It’s a really good course, with lots to do.”

Also for the USA, fellow FEI Eventing World Championships for U25 Riders competitor Quidley Kellerman also hits the top six with Blakeneys Cruise with a score of 33.0. Molly Duda is also in eight with Carlingford Hes a Clover (36.3).

Gemma Stevens and Cooley Park Muze. Photo by SPIHT/Peter Nixon.

Gemma Stevens, the 100th and final rider into Scone Palace International Horse Trials’ main arena for the Malcolm Group CCI4*-S, forged into the lead with Cooley Park Muze on a score of 28.4.

“He was really with me and his flying changes were a highlight,” said Gemma of the 10-year-old owned by the Rex Syndicate. “He’s such a dude. He prowls around like he owns the place. That’s what they need to be a top-class horse.”

Favourite with equestrian sports statistics company EquiRatings to win this competitive class, Gemma overhauled long-time leader Emily King and her CCI5* stalwart Valmy Biats by just 0.2 of a penalty.

“Valmy was very good, but he almost knows too much now in that he guesses what I’m doing, so I have to be extra on it – especially in a four-star test which is less intense than a five-star,” said Emily, who was third here with Valmy in 2025.

Perthshire’s Wills Oakdens slotted into third aboard his Badminton ride Keep It Cooley, on 29.7.

But this phase was all about Gemma Stevens, who has three in the top eight, thanks to Chilli Morning IV, fourth, and Chilli’s Jester, eighth.

“Three in the top 10 is pretty cool,” she said. “I came here to be competitive!”

Izzy Taylor holds first place on 26.9 in the CCI3*-L, with Barrington Boy, an eight-year-old owned by Johnny Hornby.

Just 0.4pen behind is Ros Canter on Broadstone Lion Man – last year’s CCI2*-L winners -, with Emily King a whisker away in third on Angell’s Choice.

Piggy March steered the home-bred Diamond March to lead the Brooks Macdonald CCI2*-L on 24.4, nearly 5pen clear of Tom McEwen (Brookfield In The Spotlight).

“He’s got 10 out of 10 from me today,” said Piggy of the seven-year-old, owned by Susie Wood and the March Stud. “He was extremely professional, and nailed his halts and rein-back. He’s a big, soft baby who’s still growing into himself, so this is his Badminton.”

In the Malcolm Group CCI*-intro, Ireland’s Chloe Walsh, 17, holds a narrow lead on 28.3 aboard Enniskerry Masterpiece over Heidi Coy (MGH Fair Maid).

Ireland fill the top four places in the Project Pony CCI2* pony section, with Jonty Purcell, 16, in front on FHS Felicity..

As well as top-class international eventing featuring many of the world’s best riders and a wide range of showing, showjumping, arena eventing and other supporting classes, Scone Palace International Horse Trials features superb shopping with a carefully curated selection of local and national retailers, excellent food and drink options and hospitality packages.

Scone Palace International HT CCI4* (GBR): [Website] [Tickets] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on Aug 28, 2026 12:01 am -

One Big Thing: Retired Racehorse Project Announces Charity Polo Match for 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover

The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) recently announced the addition of a charity polo match to the 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, presented by Thoroughbred Charities of America. The match will take place Friday, October 9 at the Man O’ War Polo Field at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, with proceeds benefiting the RRP.

Gates will open at 3:30 PM. The Cadillac Cowgirls, a professional equestrian drill team, will perform at 4:30 PM, followed by the polo match at 5 PM.

Tailgating admission is $150 per vehicle, with one ticket covering the vehicle and all occupants. Walk-in admission is free. Food trucks will be on site, and attendees are invited to participate in a tailgating competition, with prizes and additional competition details to be announced.

“Polo is such a natural fit for a Friday evening at the Kentucky Horse Park, and we’re excited to add something to Makeover week that competitors, spectators and members of the Lexington community can enjoy together,” said RRP Individual Giving Manager, Brittney Atras. “The charity polo match gives people another way to experience the event while helping support the RRP’s work on behalf of Thoroughbreds transitioning to careers beyond racing, and we look forward to working with sponsors who want to help make the inaugural event a success.”

The 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover takes place October 7-10 at the Kentucky Horse Park and showcases the athleticism and trainability of recently retired racehorses and former broodmares in ten disciplines of competition. The event also includes the Makeover Marketplace, clinics, demonstrations, and a vendor fair.

Don’t forget! [The final entry period for the 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover closes TODAY — Friday, August 28 at 5:00 p.m. ET]

[Volunteer sign-ups are also now LIVE — register here]

Tailgating tickets for the charity polo match will be available on EventBrite. Additional details, including tailgating competition prizes, will be announced on the Retired Racehorse Project website.

Activities Today at the AEC:

  • Starter Cross-Country Course Walk with Julie Wolfert | 11:00 a.m. | Please meet at the Starter start box
  • What’s Your Horse’s Heart Trying to Tell You? with Dr. Amy Polkes DACVIM of Equine Imed | 12:30 p.m. | First temporary barn by Main Vendor Row
  • Beginner Novice Cross-Country Course Walk with Martin Douzant | 5:00 p.m. | Please meet at the Beginner Novice start box
  • Adult Rider Program Beginner Novice Course Walk with Ashley Trier | 4:00 p.m. | Please meet at the Beginner Novice start box
  • Adult Rider Program Starter Course Walk with Woodge Fulton | 1:00 p.m. | Please meet at the Starter start box
  • Tacky Tourist Competitor Party | VIP Hospitality Tent by the Rolex Arena | 6:30 p.m. | Tickets required
  • ATC Team Meetup, hosted by USEA Area VIII & IX | 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Adams Horse Supply Adult Rider Lounge on Main Vendor Row | Snacks and beverages provided.

USEA American Eventing Championships, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final, and ATC Finals (KY): [Website] [Schedule] [Program] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [USEA AEC App] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Major International Events This Weekend

Scone Palace International HT CCI4* (GBR): [Website] [Tickets] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

FEI Eventing European Championship for Young Riders & Juniors (SWE): [Website] [Schedule] [Entries] [Ride Times/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

US Events This Weekend

USEA American Eventing Championships, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final, and ATC Finals (KY): [Website] [Schedule] [Program] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [USEA AEC App] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Equestrians’ Institute HT & Area VII Championships (WA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map]

Seneca Valley PC HT (MD): [Website] [Entries] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Bucks County Horse Park HT and YEH Qualifier (PA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Stories from the AEC

Other Links and Reading

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

As we approach the Stable View Oktoberfest $60,000 FEI CCI-S 1/2/3/4* & USEF/USEA Horse Trials on September 25-27, you might consider bringing your horse to school at the venue in preparation — especially if you are based nearby. Rather than just riding about the grounds, however, take advantage of the full roster of schooling series hosted at Stable View for the month of September!

Wed, Sep 9: Hunter/Jumper Institute

The Hunter/Jumper Institute at Stable View is a schooling opportunity for riders and horses to gain valuable experience in a relaxed, supportive environment. Designed with training and education in mind, it offers the perfect setting to school courses, refine technique, and build confidence while preparing for future competitions at your own pace.

  • 0.65m – 1.25m+ Schooling Jumper

Fri, Sep 11 – Sun, Sep 13: $5000 Hunter/Jumper In & Out Series

Join Stable View for a fun, welcoming hunter/jumper show offering quality courses, a friendly atmosphere, and a great chance for riders to gain experience at every level.

  • 2’6 – 3’3 Jumper
  • 1.05-1.30 Open Jumper
  • .65m – 1.0m Jumper Classic
  • $800 Stable View Welcome Stakes
  • $1600 1.25m Stable View Grand Prix

Sat, Sep 12: Schooling Dressage Collection

The Schooling Dressage Show at Stable View provides riders and horses with a low-pressure environment to gain experience and build confidence. Designed for training and preparation, it’s an ideal opportunity to practice tests, receive constructive feedback, and refine performance before recognized competition — all in a calm, supportive setting.

  • USEA, USDF, & FEI tests of choice (all levels)

Sun, Sep 13: USEF/USDF “Fall Frenzy” Dressage

Join Stable View for a USEF/USDF recognized dressage show offering top-quality judging, a calm atmosphere, and a great opportunity for riders to showcase training and progress.

  • USDF/FEI tests of choice
  • Options for Freestyle, Junior, Young Horse, & para-equestrian classes

 

Entries for Oktoberfest close on September 8, so make sure to sign up for this iconic season closer!

Training Tip of the Day

Today we’re on Episode 4 in Noelle Floyd’s OTTB series, where Tik Maynard and FEI veterinarian Dr. Yates discuss the gastric ulcers we find so frequently in off-the-track Thoroughbreds — including symptoms owners may overlook and why gastroscopy can be an important part of reaching an accurate diagnosis:

Go Eventing

Join us and Cosby Green in wishing her long-time 5* partner Jos UFO de Quidam the happiest of retirements:

Boyd Martin Jumps to Top of Adequan Advanced Championship + Thursday Recap from #AEC2026

By on Aug 27, 2026 2:16 pm -

Boyd Martin and Shanroe Cooley. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Jay Hambly’s Adequan Advanced Championship cross country track exerted its influence today as 21 competitors tackled the top-tier questions he’d set out for them. With that, the leaderboard shuffles considerably, with clear, quick rounds rewarded with big leaps up in the standings.

Boyd Martin was the one to emerge atop the field, piloting Luhmühlen podium finisher Shanroe Cooley (owned by Dallas LLC) to the quickest round of the day, accumulating 8.8 time penalties to go onto a score of 40.1 ahead of show jumping on Friday evening. The 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding has been in fighting fit form as an alternate for the World Championships earlier this month, so Boyd knew he had a good, competitive run in the tank.

“I sort of let him run on gently a bit, knowing that he’s very, very fit at the moment, just because of the preparation we did in case we needed him for the [World Championships], and he gave me a fantastic round,” Boyd commented. “I’ve really gelled with him, and we’re just on the same page now through the cross country. He shows a lot of grit and determination –we stumbled into the ditch at the coffin, and I thought it was the end of me, and he shuffled his steps and jumped out over C like a champion.”

Boyd Martin and Shanroe Cooley. Photo by Sally Spickard.

“Dallas” is a former Liz Halliday ride, and Liz has been here throughout the week cheering Boyd on. As Liz works toward her next career move in para dressage, Boyd’s actually heading over to watch her ride at her home base here in Lexington this afternoon.

In terms of Jay Hambly’s course, Boyd shared his thoughts: “He used a lot of the five-star fences, so it’s pretty big, and you know, if I had to be critical, the beginning part wasn’t that friendly. It was a little bit twisty and turny, and there was a lot of trouble early on in the course. I felt like he could have been nicer to us just letting the horses settle in, but it’s a championship course and a lot of prize money on the line, and so it needs to be a high level of standard, and it took some riding, but it was sort of a four-and-a-half star, in my opinion.”

Indeed, there was a considerable amount of trouble earlier on in the course, particularly at the first combination, which was a water complex at 5AB. Overnight leaders Laine Ashker and Lovedance came to grief here — Laine shared on social media later that she’d taken her leg off before the B and “Lottie” didn’t quite read the question, causing a drive-by. A handful of other riders had similar problems here, and one (Rory Frangos and DHI Rocketman) opted to retire at this question.

Maya Clarkson and Maks Mojo C. Photo by Lindsay Berreth/USEA.

A couple of riders who were able to secure clear rounds jumped significantly up in the standings. One of those is 2026 Wilton Fair Grant recipient Maya Clarkson with her own Maks Mojo C, who enjoyed one of their best dressage tests yesterday and jumped a strong clear to move up from 12th into second on a score of 43.1. Maya’s still formulating her fall plans, having undergone hip surgery earlier this year and abbreviating her spring season to recover, but this run has set her up well for whatever comes next.

I was out walking some of the cross country with Maya earlier this week, and she spent some time walking the Normandy Mound question at fence 10, which was set on a sort of S turn with three related questions on terrain. She got some help from some fellow riders and by today felt more confident in the question — which did cause some trouble for other riders today. “I mean, he’s such a good horse,” she told me. “My plan was just to give him a good ride around. He’s a really fast horse. He’s super rideable — he goes in a leather snaffle on cross country, and takes very little to set up for the fences. He was one of the quicker times, but I didn’t really try to go super fast. The jumps are big enough to back them off, so I was trying to just have like a confident round and really set him up well for the rest of his fall season.”

Maya Clarkson and Maks Mojo C. Photo by Sally Spickard.

And the flatwork is coming — it wouldn’t be “Maks'” strongest phase, but thanks to some ongoing help from Maya’s coach Lauren Nicholson, the strength and balance is improving as time goes on. “I think like three weeks ago he like learned how to trot fancy!” she laughed. “And I’m not really sure where it came from, but it’s a really cool thing. I was so proud of him, honestly. In the past too, he’s been one that can sometimes melt down in the ring a little bit. We actually had like a couple of mistakes too, so I was obviously frustrated about that, but really thrilled with the fact that the test was so much better — the quality, everything was so much better, and there’s still room for improvement.”

Katie Lichten and Hickstead Musterd. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Katie Lichten owns two spots in the top five after cross country, in third with Hickstead Musterd and fifth with HTS Jensen R. These two horses are among Katie’s first to have at the level; she previously rode her sister’s horse to the level, but these — primarily HTS Jensen R — would be the first she’s done most of the producing on. She now rides with Phillip Dutton, who’s helped her with both horses and, in particular, the quick footwork that’s needed to produce solid cross country rounds.

Hickstead Musterd started his career as a show jumping before going on to reach the four-star level of eventing with New Zealand’s Jesse Campbell. Katie’s had the ride since 2025 and hit a high point at MARS Bromont this spring, where they finished fourth in the CCI4*-L.

“He’s a really good cross country horse, but he does get a little backed off, and he can really balloon and jump high over the jumps,” Katie described of “Muzzie.” “And he’s not always the most quick-footed with terrain questions. He’s like 17.3 hands or something, so he almost sometimes feels like he goes into a little bit of slow motion. So we’ve just been kind of working on quickening up his footwork.”

Katie Lichten and Hickstead Musterd. Photo by Sally Spickard.

That footwork, she says, comes from a focus on repetition when schooling. Based in Pennsylvania, she frequents Boyd Martin’s Windurra USA base, which has a strong coffin complex that really encourages quick feet. “And Phillip just really emphasizes the position and having the horse in the right canter for each of the questions, and so I think that has given Muzzie more confidence. [Phillip has been great] for my confidence on the cross country too, and I think that’s really translated to the horses. I’m not always 100 perfect, but I feel like now they trust me enough to help me out when I need it, and then I try to tell them they’re good boys and then move on and give them confident rides.”

Hickstead Musterd goes onto a two-phase score of 44.1, with HTS Jensen R in fifth on a 45.2.

Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Mary Bess Davis put her down bank demons to rest with Imperio Magic today; she’s come to the Defender Kentucky CCI5* the last two years and had trouble at the big down bank in the back portion of the course. Jay Hambly used this complex, crafting a very similar question to what we saw this spring at the five-star, and Mary Bess had a game plan to put the past troubles behind her once and for all. It’s not that “McColl” is a spooky horse — he’s insanely brave, as she describes, but he is careful.

“I just thought, ‘oh, it surprised him because I came too quick at it,'” she said of the past issues at the bank. In preparation for this weekend, she spent some extra time schooling similar types of questions. “He’s such a careful horse. I it’s a little unsettling to him, so we just sat there and we went down the banks until he was happy and confident. And I think it really made a difference today.”

Which ticks off her primary goal — redemption — and sets her up well for a run at the US Equestrian Open of Eventing Final at Morven Park in October. She’s also coming off a leg injury herself, sustained when she fell from Imperio Magic after a fence on cross country at Kentucky, resulting in a broken fibula and a nasty stud puncture wound that took a couple months to heal. Luckily, the timing worked out okay to bring McColl back for this event and the fall season.

“I know how amazing he is, and I know what a partnership we have, and I just feel like we’ve just been a small bit off from being very successful last year,” Mary Bess elaborated. “So it was a good day for him. I feel really, really excited about the future because his dressage is getting stronger too.”

Mary Bess will take a score of 44.3 and fourth place into tomorrow evening’s show jumping finale.

USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final, and ATC Finals (KY): [Website] [Schedule] [Program] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [USEA AEC App] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Many thanks to Ride EquiSafe, Freejump (both here on site at the Ride EquiSafe trailer on the back side (facing the barns) of Vendor Row!) and the American Connemara Pony Society for their support of EN’s 2026 AEC coverage!

Thursday at #AEC2026

Boyd Martin and Fetiche des Rouges. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Here’s a look at your full leaderboard from Thursday:

USEA Intermediate Championship Winners: Ariel Grald and Obalix (30.8)
Bates USEA Preliminary Amateur Championship Winners: Elle White and Biscotti (30.7)
Bates USEA Preliminary Open Championship Winners: Allie Knowles and Tip Top Quality (26.9)
Bates USEA Preliminary Rider Championship Winners: Shelby Bradley and Commando D’Osthuy (28.5)
Standlee USEA Modified Amateur Championship Winners: Charlotte Collier and Loughtown Cici ZA (26.7)
Standlee USEA Modified Open Championship Winners: Kyle Carter and Redfield Nola (30.1)
Standlee USEA Modified Rider Championship Winners: Olivia Jane Fry and Qabernet VT (29.6)
ARMA USEA Training Amateur Championship: Jane Musselman and Corleone Tops (27.8)
ARMA USEA Training Junior Championship: Caden Carter and FE Santos (29.2)
ARMA USEA Training Rider Championship: Catherine Ramsey and Cakewalk (30.0)
USEA Novice Amateur Championship: Hannah Reeser and Ltl Ireland Summr Soldier (24.3)
USEA Novice Horse Championship: Chris Talley and HTF All Eyes On Me (25.6)
USEA Novice Junior Championship: Elliot Bizjak and N’Pressive (28.7)
USEA Novice Junior 15yo and Under Championship: Emmeline Tinsley and RL Horus (27.6)
USEA Novice Master Amateur Championship: Jane Musselman and Cayr Della Caccia (22.9)
USEA Novice Rider Championship: Kirsten Wood and Sophia Tharseo (25.3)

Beginner Novice and Starter get underway on Friday with dressage starting at 8:00 a.m. EST.

USEA #AEC2026 Coverage

Photo by Sally Spickard.

Clear Rounds Clinch Standlee USEA Modified Championship Titles for Collier, Carter, and Fry at #AEC2026

ARMA USEA Training Leaders Gallop Toward the Final Phase at #AEC2026

Bates USEA Preliminary Champions Shine in the Rolex Stadium at #AEC2026

USEA Novice Riders Dazzle the Judges at #AEC2026

The #AEC2026 Daily: Thursday

Instagram Round-up: Thursday at #AEC2026

Competition Commences at Scone Palace International Horse Trials

By on Aug 27, 2026 9:01 am -

Laura Collett and Romany Cricket. Photo courtesy of Scone Palace International.

Riders from 11 nations have completed the first horse inspection at Scone Palace International Horse Trials (27-30 August), with a star-studded field set to contest the international classes at the second running of the event – the biggest in Scotland.

The horses and riders were presented for inspection this afternoon in front of the stands at Perth Racecourse, officially getting this year’s international competition under way.

A total of 14 Olympians are among the entries at the Perthshire fixture, with 12 coming forward for the CCI4*-S. Seven riders inside the top 30 of the FEI World Rankings will also compete, while 12 riders have travelled straight from the FEI World Championships in Aachen (August 11-23).

Piggy March and Diamond March. Photo courtesy of Scone Palace International.

Athletes to watch this week include Britain’s Paris Olympic gold medallists Laura Collett, Tom McEwen and Ros Canter, New Zealand’s world number one Tim Price and fellow medallist Clarke Johnstone and Scotland’s leading rider Wills Oakden. Other favourites across the CCI4*-S and CCI4*-L classes include British stars Emily King, Piggy March, Izzy Taylor and Gemma Stevens.

Also taking place today were Subaru-sponsored grassroots eventing classes. Hope Wilson enjoyed a bumper day in the saddle, heading home with two titles: the BE90 (section C) championship with Ballygriffen Cooper and the BE90 (section D) with Charlie Girl.

Olivia Graham and Melanie Boatman’s Master TS secured the BE90 (section E) championship, while in the BE100 (section F), Jessica McKie took the title with Rose McKie’s WS Ollie BE. In the BE100 (section G), THL After Eight and Eilidh Costelloe topped the leaderboard.

Wills Oakden and Mile Beach. Photo courtesy of Scone Palace International.

The Subaru Scottish Grassroots Championships continue Thursday with the jumping phase, when overnight leaders Eilidh Herd and Zuccheros Deff Leppard (SC BE90), and Pebbles Walker and Shannondale Flight and Maeve Sheridan and Hey Pronto (joint leaders, SC BE100), will bid to hold on to their top spots.

Scone Palace International HT CCI4* (GBR): [Website] [Tickets] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]