Classic Eventing Nation

Rolex Horses Make a Return to Competition + Other Scores

By on Jun 14, 2015 6:15 pm -
Jordan Linstedt and Revitavet Capato. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Jordan Linstedt and Revitavet Capato. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Many horses who competed at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event in April are starting to return to competition after well deserved breaks. Barbara and Gary Linstedt’s Revitavet Capato, who finished 35th at Rolex with rider Jordan Linstedt, has had a great start to his summer season.

Jordan and the Hanoverian gelding traversed the country and spent several weeks training and competing on the East Coast before heading to Kentucky, but they are back home in Washington State and it looks as though they haven’t missed a beat. They scored a 43.7 in dressage and added no penalties jumping to secure the victory in the CIC2* at picturesque Aspen Farms Horse Trials in Yelm, Washington.

CIC**!! #AFHT

Posted by Aspen Farms Horse Trials on Sunday, June 14, 2015

Nikki Ayers and Andree Stow’s Rubicon added 8.8 penalties to their score for second place. Mary Burke and her own Prince William moved up from fourth to finish third on a 54.1.

Kimberly Steinbuch and Ruth Bley’s Spartacus D’L’Herbage were on point this weekend in the CIC*. They are building up a solid resume at the level, with this being their second one-star win this year. They were well ahead of the competition with a dressage score of 40.3. Two double-clear jumping rounds solidified their position and their partnership.

Caroline Smith and Lucas maintained the reserve placing throughout, placing 47.6 on the flat and adding nothing to their score. Likewise, Carmen Holmes Smith and Ali Holmes Smith’s Spartacus finished on their initial score for third.

Aspen Farms CIC & H.T.  [Website] [Live Scores]

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On a very, very hot day in Aiken, South Carolina (and indeed all over the Carolinas… it’s boiling y’all), Preliminary through Tadpole competitors are ran all three phases in a one-day event. Technical Delegate Mellisa Davis Warden said the event took all the necessary precautions to be sure all participants are safe.

“There is ice water available for horses in at least two locations, ice water available for riders at all warm ups and obviously all jackets are waived. Misting stations are set up across the facility for horses, riders and spectators,” Mellisa said. “I am carrying ice water and Gatorade as well as salty snacks for anyone in need. There is ice water in every motorized vehicle; at least five are constantly circulating.”

Preliminary was the first to finish up this morning before the temperatures skyrocketed. Sarah Kuhn and Deborah Kuhn’s Dutch Warmblood mare Atlanta B picked up their second Preliminary win in the last month. They scored a very good 25.9 in dressage and were just 4 seconds over the optimum time to easily secure the win.

Full Gallop Farm June H.T.  [Website] [Entry Status]

Awesome clip from today’s Xc! #OTTB #goodgirllils #girlpower (Thank you to Diane Zrimsek)

Posted by Lainey Ashker on Saturday, June 13, 2015

Colleen Rutledge’s Covert Rights is also back in action after an 11th place finish at his first four-star in April. Competing in the Advanced Combined Training division at Seneca Valley, they won on their dressage score of 47.3.

Lauren Balcomb and her warmblood gelding Guido Hatzis completed their fourth Stateside event as a member of Team Windurra. Scoring a 26.7 in dressage they got off to a strong start in Open Intermediate 1. A rail in show jumping and 2.4 time penalties was not enough to knock off the top of the leaderboard and they won with room to spare.

Second place in OI-1 went to Sarah Cousins and Quigase du Lac. Conor Rollins and Fernhill Tiger Con round out the top three having moved up from fifth after dressage.

Alan Triana and Ofrenda steadily climbed the leaderboard in Open Intermediate 2. They were the only pair in the division to finish on their dressage score which moved them from sixth to the top spot. Abraham Ojeda and Obusero were second with 5.6 time penalties on cross country to add to their scrore. Enrique Mercado Romana were third.

Prepping this morning and saw the Mexican Equestrian team. This is how they roll

Posted by Gary AndAngie Francart on Saturday, June 13, 2015

All three of these riders, along with Daniela Moguel with Cecelia and Agave and Guillermo de Campo and Quelite, will be competing at the Great Meadow International Horse Trials next weekend in preparation for the Pan American Games.

Cindy Anderson-Blank and Windchase Aquilla won the Open Preliminary on their dressage score of 22.5, which was quite a competitive division, with the top seven finishing on a score in the 20s.

The top two in the Preliminary Rider division were the only ones to finish without cross country time faults in their class, which had a considerable impact on the leaderboard. Randa Sorzano and Pleasant Rendezvous led from the start with a 24.5. Rachel Nymeyer and Starstruck moved all the way up from seventh after dressage to finish second.

Seneca Valley PC Spring H.T.  [Website] [Live Scores]

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Calvin Euthanized at Aspen Farms Horse Trials

By on Jun 14, 2015 5:43 pm -
Photo by Joe Stylos Photo by Joe Stylos

According to a statement on the USEA website, Calvin, a 17-year-old Thoroughbred gelding owned and ridden by Holly Severijn of Woodinville, Washington, was euthanized at Aspen Farms Horse Trials this afternoon.

“Holly and Calvin were competing in the Training Rider division and were on cross-country when Calvin fell at Fence 12, a log jump out of the water. He got to his feet but it was evident that there was trauma to the shoulder area and the vet team led by Dr. Karen Nyrop advised euthanasia,” the statement reads.

Calvin and Holly have been partnered since 2006. They competed at the USPC Championships in 2007 and completed their first Training level event the same year.

Please join us in extending our sincerest condolences to Holly and all of Calvin’s connections.

[Calvin, 1998-2015]

Sunday Video: Cavaletti Exercises with Evention

By on Jun 14, 2015 4:00 pm -

Two weeks ago Dom and Jimmie Schramm kicked off Season 3 of Evention TV with a detailed tutorial on how to build your own cavaletti. Who knew Dom was so handy with power tools? This week, they’re back to show you just what you can do with the cavaletti you built or the ones you already own.

I love cavaletti exercises (even though I second guess the spelling of the word each and every time I type it). They are great for building confidence in a young horse, fine tuning the basics in an experienced horse, practicing your position over low fences, challenging your horse’s footwork and above all, strengthening your horse’s core muscles. Plus, there are literally endless combinations of exercises you can set up.

In this episode, Dom explains while Jimmie demonstrates three cavaletti exercises that introduce course work through turning exercises and easy combinations. As a bonus, Dom shows you how to measure striding when setting up cavaletti, as the distances will be slightly different than normal fences.

Working Student Diaries: Working Hard or Hardly Working

By on Jun 14, 2015 2:00 pm -
Jeannette Bayer is a working student at Denali Sporthorses in Iola, Texas. She has been eventing for a year with her OTTB gelding Pandamonium (“Panda”) and is the founder of Warm Up Ring Bling. Jeanette sent us this story about her experience as a working student and how the things she has learned along the way gives her hope for the future. Keep up with Jeanette on her blog here, and if you are looking for a working student position yourself, don’t miss these recently updated summer listings. Thanks for writing Jeannette, and thanks for reading!
Jeanette and Panda competing at Pine Hill. Photo via 14 Hands and Counting

Jeanette and Panda competing at Pine Hill. Photo via 14 Hands and Counting

I am not planning to talk about how awful or hard or unfair it is to be a working student because if I did that I think that would prove I’ve learned nothing. Being a working student is a lot of things. It is hard. It is fun. It is fulfilling. It is an amazing opportunity for growth. And it is not for everyone.

I have never been a working student prior to this experience, but I know for a fact I do not have it anywhere near as hard as some people pursuing the working student path to success. I have been blessed with an amazing opportunity to work with a trainer/rider/coach who understands the person I am and can see the potential within me, but better yet, she knows how to get all of that out of me.

As a working student I have learned more than I thought was humanly possible. This knowledge has made me realize that not only did I not know anything, but what I now know is but a drop in the vast ocean that is horse riding, training, nutrition and care.

The more I have learned, the more I realize how much I don’t know, and the endless cycle continues. Aside from sailing over a big jump, it is the most exciting and terrifying feeling I have ever known. I feel both that I am more prepared than I ever was at the start of my journey to own my own business and also that I still have so far to go.

I have had the pleasure to work with green horses, young horses, highly trained horses, a yearling, stallions, spooky horses, jumpers, hunters, eventers, Thoroughbreds, Warmbloods, ponies, giant horses, hot horses, dead heads, pregnant mares and everything in between. Every experience is a new one that, as my trainer says, “adds another wrench to my toolbox.”

Every experience you have makes you more able to solve problems and correct issues you will eventually be confronted with. But every horse is also an individual and will always throw something new at you. This is why it is so crucial to be a working student and watch training actually happen. To encounter as many horses as you can and learn as many things as you can so you are best equipped to be out on your own one day, when you decide to spread your wings.

A day for me is relatively straightforward: feed, water, hay, muck stalls, add shavings, tack up horses, watch them being ridden, bathe horses, fly spray, clean tack, sweep, rake and anything else that needs to get done. It isn’t crazy, It isn’t really a long list. But it is all important.

If I have learned nothing else (but believe me I have learned a lot of other things), it is that you have to take care. It’s hard to explain in two little words. It is more than that but just that at the same time. Take care of the horses. Take care of the tack. Take care of the facility. Take care that you are paying attention and that things are done right. Take care that your words and actions are above reproach.

Horses come to the barn and they are beautiful because they are horses, but when they leave the barn they are whole. Not just because they are trained but because they are taken care of. Mentally, physically, emotionally, inside and out. They are taken care of. There are no short cuts because short cuts produce results sometimes, but doing it right produces results every time.

Horses don’t come to us abused and neglected with a sob story about their past. Most of them come from barns that are nicer than my house and cost more per month. They are eating top quality feed and hay. They have saddles that fit them like a glove. Most are already happy, and yet there is a transformation.

Everything I have learned or am asked to do has a purpose. There is a reason for everything. From the way the stalls are cleaned to the layout of the entire barn, there is a reason. If you go about training horses or even caring for them by the seat of your pants I think you’ll get far enough. But if you have a plan, a routine, a schedule, a goal and a vision, you will get so much farther.

This is why being a working student is important. Seeing how a program works, or does not work, is so important. Watching horse after horse after horse go from a regular horse to a glowing, confident animal might get you thinking it’s more than just luck. The time you spend grooming, lunging, hosing, treating and cleaning all culminates into the beautiful, amazing animal that leaves when it is time.

It is never too late. You can be a working student. Find a reputable trainer and learn as much as you can. Work HARD. Do as much as you can and then a little more because there’s always a little more you can do. Have fun. If you do something wrong, it’s okay, you’re human and accidents happen. Just do it better next time. Sweat, cry, laugh and enjoy. Then the hard work doesn’t feel so much like work anymore. You’ll be in awe of what you don’t know. And if you’re not, you’re doing it all wrong.

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica finish 7th at Bramham CCI3*

By on Jun 14, 2015 12:00 pm -
Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Samantha Clark Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Samantha Clark

Lauren Kieffer capped off a great weekend at Equi-Trek Bramham CCI3* with a clear round in the show jumping to move up to eventual 7th place, and Veronica also takes home the Angela Cotton Memorial Trophy for the Highest Placed Mare.

There were only 18 clear rounds today and after rattling the first fence, Veronica never looked like she was going to touch a rail. (All final scores are here)

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica Photo By Samantha Clark

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo By Samantha Clark

In fact Lauren said she was worried about how fresh she was. “She was wild! We gave her a jump this morning and did a lot just to try and get her rideable again because she was super-keen and here in the warm-up she was a little bit the same.

“We put up a big oxer to try and surprise her and she had the front rail down, and then I did one big vertical and she jumped the snot out of that, so then I just did a tiny vertical and tried to get her rideable! She certainly is not feeling anything from yesterday. She’s actually feeling fresher than usual. I think she’s liking the weather here!”

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica Photo by Samantha Clark

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Samantha Clark

Veronica may be the only one; it’s been really cold today. Officially the high was 55 degrees but with rain all day it’s felt much colder, and my fingers are so cold I’m struggling to type. I asked Lauren if jumping on the grass had posed any problems for her or the mare.

“The grass felt fine. I was a little worried because I can’t think of any three days where I’ve had to jump on the grass, maybe Ocala but that’s nothing like this, but the footing was great. I didn’t have a huge amount of stud in and even with those rollbacks I didn’t feel like I was losing my footing at all and it’s certainly not cut up in front of the fences much.”

Lauren Kieffer with William Fox-Pitt, Pippa Funnell and Andrew Nicholson in the Bramham CCI3* prize giving #thecompanyyoukeep

Lauren Kieffer with William Fox-Pitt, Pippa Funnell and Andrew Nicholson in the Bramham CCI3* prize giving #thecompanyyoukeep. Photo by Samantha Clark

This is Lauren’s first event in England and now that it’s under her belt she thinks the experience will be invaluable. “I think it’s a great event, the course is different from anything I’ve ever done; I love Ian’s courses because they’re so bold and brave and encourage forward riding. They’re not unlike Derek’s in that you can trust them that if you go out and and ride forward it will work.

“The first third of the course is a lot like Kentucky, really open and galloping, the middle third is a combination of very hilly and galloping and the last third is very straight up and down hill, not unlike the old Red Hills but probably even steeper. So that was a little different from anything I’ve ridden on before but it’s an awesome event. It’s a tough track. It’s certainly a solid track, but the ground and everything is good on them. The horses all seem to have come out of it well and I think it’s probably hugely educational to do the Under 25 thing here.

“It’s very different here to say, either Boekelo or Pau; I’d say extremely more competitive than either of those. I finished on a 49 on the same score as [Meadowbrook’s] Scarlett got in Jersey and she was 2nd, and I’m 7th here but it’s way more competitive, just the numbers. I’ve spent a decade with David drilling that in my head but still, you get it in your head that you’re competitive at home but you see it how much more competitive it is over here for sure.”

Flora Harris and Bayano Photo by Samantha Clark

Flora Harris and Bayano. Photo by Samantha Clark

Flora Harris jumped clear on Bayano to finish on her wining dressage score and clinch victory, by far the biggest of her career so far. “I’m overjoyed, I’m so happy, a bit in shock I have to say but I have the most amazing horse and so many people made this possible.

“I know it’s a bit of a cliche but it’s true – the team that surrounds a rider makes a rider. None of it would be possible without owners, sponsors, trainers….we couldn’t do it without them. I just feel very very lucky. I think a win like this is a milestone in any rider’s career and Bramham is such a prestigious event, it’s a bit overwhelming. I’m just thrilled. I couldn’t be happier.”

Flora found Bayano in Holland at a dealer’s yard as a 5-year-old and has brought him on herself; he’s now 9 and this was his first CCI3*. “He felt amazing today, you never know with a horse after their first run round a big track, especially Bramham with its hills and its terrain, it is a stamina test. You never know quite how they’re going to come out of it and he wouldn’t be an experienced three-day horse; it’s only his 3rd three-day but he felt fresh, he felt really on it and he really really tried, I just love him!”

Kitty King and Persimmon Photo by Samantha Clark

Kitty King and Persimmon. Photo by Samantha Clark

William Fox-Pitt and Fernhill Pimms had two rails down to allow Kitty King and Persimmon to move into the runner up spot with a flawless clear. Kitty was another rider who mentioned that her horse came out feeling better than ever today.

“He jumped his socks off today. He jumped by far his best round at a three-star three-day. He felt the same as he does at a one-day event which they never normally do. He tried his heart out the whole way round the track. It’s just lovely to have two such good jumpers because both Ceylor L A N at Tattersalls and him today, neither of them felt like they’d done a three-day.

“In the warm-up it’s a good feeling to know that unless I make an error they’re going to jump clear. I was very happy with him. He’s been knocking on the door at his three stars to get a really good result.”

Best mare at Bramham: Veronica

Best mare at Bramham: Veronica. Photo by Samantha Clark

Gwendolen Fer was the best of a large French contingent in third on Romantic Love. The French made a foray to Blair last year to test out the venue ahead of the European Championships there later this summer and came to Bramham this Spring to get another go at Ian Stark’s famous cross country on somewhat similar terrain.

Knowing Great Britain they may well have got an appetizer of what the weather may be like too – it’s been pretty miserable today, but that can’t dampen what’s been a fabulous weekend’s sport – top class competition, superbly organised, in an amazing venue. Congratulations to all the riders and their various supporters and teams, thank you to all the volunteers and organisers, and we look forward already to next year!

Bramham: Website, Schedule, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, @samanthalclark, Twitter, Instagram

Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace Finish 10th in Bramham Under 25 CCI3*

By on Jun 14, 2015 7:17 am -
Earning their place in the history books: Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace place 10th in the Bishop Burton U25 CCI3* at Bramham and line up next to Olympian Ludwig Svennerstal. Photo by Samantha Clark. Earning their place in the history books: Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace place 10th in the Bishop Burton U25 CCI3* at Bramham and line up next to Olympian Ludwig Svennerstal. Photo by Samantha Clark.

Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace jumped one of only two clear rounds within the time today to finish on their overnight score and complete the Bishop Burton College Bramham U25 CCI3* in a very creditable 10th place in their first international CCI3* appearance.  The only other double clear today came from the winner Holly Woodhead, and there was only one other clear jumping round in the whole division. You can see the final results here. 

Quantum Solace - he'll catch a ferry to Holland Monday and fly back to the US on Wednesday where he'll enjoy a well-earned vacation.

Quantum Solace – he’ll catch a ferry to Holland Monday and fly back to the US on Wednesday where he’ll enjoy a well-earned vacation.

Caroline was quick afterwards to give all the credit to her horse, her beloved ‘Nacho’, but she has ridden him well all weekend, especially in the jumping phases and they have a great partnership together. Caroline was kind enough to talk about her plans for the summer, and her hopes for Nacho for next year on video, but due to wifi constraints I won’t be able to upload that until later tonight. Suffice it to say she and her team did a fabulous job all weekend.

As John Kyle pointed out during the prize giving, the U25 division here at Bramham is a pretty good pointer to future success – Caroline was lined up next to London Olympian Swede Ludwig Svennerstal (who talked non-stop to her it must be noted, he seemed very taken! Meanwhile Nacho just ate grass – “it’s no big deal!”), Olympian Will Coleman is a past winner as is Zara Phillips, Piggy French, Tom McEwen won in  2013 and has since represented Great Britain…the list goes on and on and I don’t expect that Caroline will be any different.

The Senior CCI3* division has already started jumping but as Veronica and Lauren are lying in 12th place they are not due to jump for another couple of hours. The weather is still cold and miserable but spirits remain high in the U.S. camp. Go Bramham and Go Eventing!

Bramham: Website, Schedule, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, @samanthalclark, Twitter, Instagram

Veronica and Quantum Solace Pass Bramham Final Horse Inspection

By on Jun 14, 2015 4:30 am -
Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace pass the Final Horse Inspection at Bramham CCI3*. Photo by Samantha Clark. Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace pass the Final Horse Inspection at Bramham CCI3*. Photo by Samantha Clark.

Two horses were sent to the holding box in each division in the final horse inspection at the Equi-Trek Bramham Horse Trials. One withdrew from the U25, Michelle Kenny’s Asilomar Independence, and Bert Bolton’s Purple Sands was not accepted upon re-inspection.

Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace both looked very smart and very sound, a bright spark on this dull, damp and definitely cold, drizzly morning.

In the Senior Division two horses were sent to  the holding box – Jo Ward’s Primitive Data and Izzy Taylor’s Dax Van Ternieuwbeke, both were subsequently withdrawn.

Final Horse Inspection at Bramham CCI3*: no problem for Lauren Kieffer and Team Rebecca's Veronica

Final Horse Inspection at Bramham CCI3*: no problem for Lauren Kieffer and Team Rebecca’s Veronica. Photo by Samantha Clark.

Veronica and Lauren Kieffer treated the Final Horse Inspection like a mere formality – they showed up looking like dynamite, breezed up and down the jog strip, the Ground Jury took a nano-second to pass them and they went straight back to the stables to get warm and cosy again and devour more polos!

The U25 will show-jump shortly so at some point today we’ll get a gallery up from the rainy Final Horse Inspection. Particularly impressive today was Pippa Funnell’s Sandman who looked as fresh as he did on the first day. The Ground Jury took a very long time before passing Andrew Nicholson’s Perfect Stranger, and Vicky Brake’s Cooleys First was asked to jog twice.

Nick Gauntlett’s Crown Talisman passed without incident today and looked superb, and Nick agreed that Tali did indeed tire on the cross country yesterday but explained that the horse has missed quite a good deal of work this spring due to having a virus but he was anxious to get him round to gain his qualifications.

Much more to come from Bramham today. Stay warm and Go Eventing!

Bramham: Website, Schedule, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, @samanthalclark, Twitter, Instagram

Sunday Links from One K Helmets

By on Jun 14, 2015 12:30 am -
Stuff like this breaks my heart. :/ Stuff like this breaks my heart. :/

West Coast folks and those of you that buy used tack online, take note: the crew at Barnacle Eventing was hit by thieves on Friday night. Barnacle Eventing is based out of Fairwind Farm in Santa Rosa. Two separate barns on the property were hit, with the majority of items stolen being Dressage tack. Josh Barnacle’s Voltaire jump saddle was taken as well. Tack theft is so upsetting. Fingers crossed that the folks at Barnacle Eventing are able to recover their missing gear and whoever is responsible is punished appropriately.

Bramham Links: Website, Entries, Schedule, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, @samanthalclark

U.S. Weekend Action:

Valinor Farm H.T. [Website] [Live Scores]

Larkin Hill H.T. [Website] [Ride Times] [Results]

Seneca Valley PC Spring H.T.  [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]

Full Gallop Farm June H.T.  [Website] [Entry Status]

Queeny Park H.T.  [Website] [Live Scores]

Silverwood Farm Spring H.T.  [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Aspen Farms CIC & H.T.  [Website] [Live Scores]

Round Top H.T.  [Omnibus]

Sunday Links:

Kayley Cuoco Has Total Fangirl Moment Meeting Show Jumper Ashlee Bond

East Hampton Equestrian Compound for $55 Million

Canada Looks To Target Equine Infectious Anemia In The West

Horse Found Abandoned On Road In Flipped Over Trailer

Coral Keen’s Eventing Blog: Looking Forward To A Trip To Germany

Pony Express Leaves Monday For California

Sunday Video: New footing at Rebecca Farms this year! WOOHOO!

Stuart Black Switches Nationality to Ride for Canada, Named as Pan Am Alternate

By on Jun 13, 2015 6:09 pm -
Photo via Wikimedia Commons Photo via Wikimedia Commons

No alternates were listed in this morning’s Canadian Pan American Games Eventing Team announcement, but Stuart Black confirmed to EN that he has been named as the traveling alternate with Orin Tre’ Book’s 8-year-old Selle Francais gelding Tre’ Du Kurnat after recently changing his nationality from USA to Canada.

Stuart was not listed as the traveling alternate in today’s official announcement because his current sport nationality status with the Pan American Sport Organization (PASO), the governing body of the Pan American Games, still lists him as American. Stuart originally changed his nationality to Canadian after moving from England in 1977, but he then switched to ride for the USA when he became a U.S. citizen in 2004.

According to the FEI’s Sport Nationality: Rules and Procedures for Change Applications, a change of sport nationality is subject to the following requirement: “The Athlete must hold the nationality of the country he wishes to compete for at international level. He must have held this nationality by 31 December of the year immediately preceding his sport nationality change application.”

Stuart told EN that he flew to Toronto and had a Canadian passport expedited so that he met the above criteria; his new passport was issued on December 9, 2014. Stuart’s FEI profile, however, did not reflect his new nationality until April 23, 2015, when a request to change his associated national federation from the U.S. to Canada was submitted.

The 2015 Canadian Pan American Games Selection Procedures state that the deadline to submit an application to represent Canada at the Pan Ams was December 10, 2014. Equine Canada’s procedures state that the rider must be a Canadian citizen, a member of Equine Canada and in possession of a valid Canadian passport at the time of applying for the Pan Ams.

Stuart told EN this afternoon that PASO is “a few months behind” in approving his nationality change, but that he should be approved to officially ride for Canada by June 20, about three weeks before the Pan American Games begin in Toronto.

This paperwork delay follows last year’s Canadian World Equestrian Games selection snafu, when Kathryn Robinson was named to the squad only to be removed and replaced due to a missing piece of paperwork.

The following horses and riders were named to the Canadian Pan Ams team today: Colleen Loach and Quorry Blue d’Argouges, Jessica Phoenix and Pavarotti, Waylon Roberts and Bill Owen, and Kathryn Robinson and Let It Bee.

Stuart Black and Tre’ Du Kernat are the traveling alternates, and the following horses and riders have been named non-traveling alternates: Kyle Carter and FR’s Trust Fund, Lesley Grant-Law and What Law, Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High, Jessica Phoenix and Abbey GS (reserve to Pavarotti), Jessica Phoenix and Bentley’s Best, April Simmonds and Quebec NZPH, and Michael Winter and Nothing Gained.

Update: This post has been updated to reflect that Stuart Black expedited his new Canadian passport on Dec. 9, 2014, as opposed to Dec. 22, 2014, the date he originally told to EN. We also added the background information that Stuart rode for Canada for the first time after moving from England in 1977; he subsequently rode for the U.S. after becoming an American citizen in 2004.

Ian Stark Thrilled with Standard of Riding at Bramham CCI3*

By on Jun 13, 2015 3:23 pm -
Overnight leaders at Equitrek Bramham CCI3* Flora Harris and Bayano. Photo by Samantha Clark Overnight leaders at Equitrek Bramham CCI3* Flora Harris and Bayano. Photo by Samantha Clark

As expected today’s cross country shook up the leaderboard, but the top three remain unchanged with Flora Harris and Bayano still in pole position after a flawless clear round inside the time. There were 13 clear rounds inside the time, and 52 clear jumping rounds. Eight combinations were eliminated and two retired; three withdrew before cross country.  (All scores here)

The forecast rain arrived early this morning, but not in the deluges we had perhaps been dreading, and most of the riders agreed that along with the extensive watering and spiking on the course it only helped the going. Ian Stark agreed that this may have been a big factor in why we saw so many horses finishing strong.

” I thought the standard of riding was fantastic. There were a lot of really lovely young horses out there which was really encouraging for the future of the sport,” Ian said. “I think people are now aware that they have got to have a really fit horse here, and it was top of the ground. There weren’t that many inside the time and considering the perfect conditions I thought more might get the time, and they still had to work for it, it wasn’t just a walk in the park.”

Andrew Nicholson and Perfect Stranger Photo by Samantha Clark

Andrew Nicholson and Perfect Stranger. Photo by Samantha Clark

We mentioned earlier how proud we should feel of Caroline Martin and Lauren Kieffer after their great rounds today, and Ian only emphasized this when he pointed out that he feels that Bramham is a real stepping stone to Burghley or similar.

“I certainly think if they went confidently around there they’re ready for a four star; beforehand all the riders were all telling me it was a three-and-a-half star anyway! What I liked was that I didn’t feel that there were any traps on the course, it was all very open. There were a lot of big questions and serious questions but it was all very obvious to the horses.

“I think people know my tracks more now and without exception I think the riders had a certain bit of fear and respect for the course, and so often when riders are a little bit wary they ride better. I thought it was quite a tough track but it didn’t cause as much trouble as it might; having said that there were some lucky escapes! What really pleased me was there were a lot of really nice young horses growing in stature and confidence as they went round.”

Paul Tapner and Vanir Kamira Photo by Samantha Clark

Paul Tapner and Vanir Kamira. Photo by Samantha Clark

Flora Harris told us yesterday that she had changed her preparation after a cheeky mistake at Tattersalls a few weeks ago, and her hunch paid off today – Bayano was foot perfect for her.

“He was excellent, it all went to plan. I watched a few go in the morning and they had some different distances to what I’d planned, but I very much wanted to stick to my plan because things tend to go wrong for me if I change my mind so I was quite pleased when it all came off today!”

William Fox-PItt and Catherine Witt's Fernhill Pimms moves into 2nd place overnight at Equitrek Bramham CCI3*

William Fox-Pitt and Catherine Witt’s Fernhill Pimms moves into 2nd place overnight at Equitrek Bramham CCI3*. Photo by Samantha Clark

William Fox-Pitt cruised round on Catherine Witt’s Fernhill Pimms to stay in second place overnight; the horse has had a good preparation for Bramham and this could either be a stepping stone to Burghley or perhaps his owner’s first chance to go on a Team Trip?

“I was delighted with him. He’s been on very good form this year and I was hopeful that this course was a good one for him and he went as well as I could have hoped. He was very straight and made it feel very easy, and he did the time which is very tough to do as well.

I think this sets him up for something exciting in the Autumn whatever that may be. We’ll just take each day as it comes, and it depends maybe on the selectors; he may actually go to Burghley. I think this is a good test; you’d like to think if they went well here and finished confidently and full of running that Burghley was a very natural progression.”

Kitty King and Persimmon Photo by Samantha Clark

Kitty King and Persimmon. Photo by Samantha Clark

Kitty King added a couple of time penalties to her dressage score but stays in third place overnight and is still delighted with Persimmon’s performance today.

“I was just thrilled with how he went, he gave me a really good ride and he didn’t finish tired at all. He galloped through the water, up the hill and all the way home as quick as he does up the gallops first time so he had plenty left in the tank, and he was really straight at everything and he was extremely careful at the rails we fell at last year! (the water at 12). He had his toes up around his ears there and it was nice to get that blip behind us. He was super all the way around.”

Pippa Funnell and Sandman jump clear with a little time around the Bramham 3* XC Photo by Samantha Clark

Pippa Funnell and Sandman jump clear with a little time around the Bramham CCI3* cross country. Photo by Samantha Clark

Pippa Funnell had warned us yesterday that she would ride the course today according to her horses’ needs and she did indeed add a few time penalties to her dressage score on each one. Sandman looked fabulous the whole way round but she was taking no chances with him, and you can only admire her all the more for sticking to her guns.

Billy The Biz was leading the CIC3* division, and she joked later that she trotted in the woods on purpose so that local rider, Yorkshire girl Nicola Wilson, lying second on her Rolex horse Annie Clover would take the win. Unbelievably this is Nicola’s first Bramham victory, made all the sweeter as it comes on her parents’ lovely mare Annie Clover, and she also finished fourth in the same division on her other Rolex mount Watermill Vision.

Gwendolen Fer and Jodie Amos capitalized on fast clear rounds to move up and fill the fourth and fifth spots with Romantic Love and Wisecrack for France and Great Britain respectively.

Francis Whittington and Fernhill Highlight Photo by Samantha Clark

Francis Whittington and Fernhill Highlight. Photo by Samantha Clark

Further down the leaderboard we saw some big move-ups (and a few plummeting down). Francis Whittington and Fernhill Highlight looked fabulous and are now in the top 10 after what looked like an effortless hack around for 0.4 time to add to their dressage.

Paul Tapner rode Vanir Kamira like a man possessed after a fall at the second fence on Prince Mayo – after being asked to withdraw Yogi Bear from the dressage I imagine he was going to get one out of three round whatever it took!

Izzy Taylor and Dax Van Ternieuwbeke Photo by Samantha Clark

Izzy Taylor and Dax Van Ternieuwbeke. Photo by Samantha Clark

Izzy Taylor on Dax Van Ternieuwbeke and Sarah Ennis both rode proper, old fashioned cross country rounds, as if they were out for a good day’s hunting – these are two riders that the youngsters should be watching and emulating!

Nick Gauntlett and Crown Talisman who tired at the end but jumped clear round the Bramham 3* XC Photo by Samantha Clark

Nick Gauntlett and Crown Talisman, who tired at the end but jumped clear round the Bramham CCI3* cross country. Photo by Samantha Clark

Crown Talisman looked super at the beginning of the course but was noticeably one of the more tired horses at the end; I’m still waiting for a reply from Nick Gauntlett to talk about his round, but as the wifi is also “very tired” (practically non-existent!) at Bramham at the moment he may not have got my messages.

Ben Hobday and Baroque Du Vi leap into the first water on the Equitrek Bramham CCI3* XC - yehboi! Photo by Samantha Clark

Ben Hobday and Baroque Du Vi leap into the first water on the Equitrek Bramham CCI3* cross country – yehboi! Photo by Samantha Clark

I have a confession!  I am now a fully fledged Ben Hobday fan – yep, or should I say, yeh boi, I’ve joined the masses! Where I’d once dismissed him as a joke (or even perhaps worse!) I talked to him after his dressage on Mulry’s Error at Badminton and was swayed – there’s a smart, sensible man beneath the swagger!

I’ve since watched him ride a few other horses and have to admit he’s good, too! He rode Baroque Du Vi in the CCI this morning and was pretty impressive through the first water where I was sitting, and also finished 9th in the CIC on Ramilo. Now it’s my life’s dream to get Laine Ashker to Burghley so they can both meet up, make selfie-love and live happily after!

Trailblazers Mark Kyle and Jesmond Justice jump clear round the Bramham CCI3* xc Photo by Samantha Clark

Trailblazers Mark Kyle and Jesmond Justice jump clear round the Bramham CCI3* xc Photo by Samantha Clark

Today was a good day for Bramham, and for the sport in general; we ran on time almost to the minute all day long, and it was a very long day. I saw the ambulance and medics mostly hanging around chatting all day, filling time, which is wonderful to see them with nothing to do!

Huge, huge thank yous to all the volunteers, especially the people way out in the car parks and road crossings who wait out there all day long for very little thanks and not even a lunch – we salute you. Well done to all the riders, grooms, support crew, organizers, it’s more than a village, it might be a city.

The Final Horse Inspections start tomorrow morning at 8am GB (3am US eastern) followed by the U25 show-jumping at 9:45am  (4:45am US eastern). The lower placings in the CCI show jump at 11:30am GB (6:30am US eastern) and the top 25 will jump at 1:30pm GB (8:30 am US eastern). As usual we’ll be bringing you as much as we can as soon as we can so come back as soon as possible. Thanks for reading, and thanks for going eventing – Go Bramham!

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