Classic Eventing Nation

Barb Crabo, Amber Levine Lead FEI Divisions After Dressage at Copper Meadows

By on Jun 5, 2015 7:11 pm -
Barb Crabo and Eveready at Galway Downs. Photo by Jenni Autry. Barb Crabo and Eveready at Galway Downs. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Welcome back to Ramona, California, where Area VI is wrapping up their spring FEI season at Copper Meadows. It’s Friday out west, which means it’s a beautiful day for dressage! The atmosphere at Copper is warm and very eventing family friendly, which is a great combination for young horses, seasoned veterans, move ups, confidence builders and just plain fun. Copper is running everything from the CIC 3* to Intro this weekend, which means there’s something for everyone! But now, on to the dressage.

 Barb Crabo and Eveready Lead CIC3*

Barb Crabo and Eveready were predicted to win this weekend by our numbers expert, Maggie Deatrick, and once again she is proving the numbers matter! With a lovely test breaking the 50 mark with a score of 47.7, Barb and Ready have room to make mistakes and still take home the win. That isn’t in their game plan though, and you can expect them to finish strong.

A big welcome back to the West Coast to Avery Klunick! She’s been competing out east, coming in second at Chattahoochee Hills last month in their CI 3* and winning the Open Intermediate division at Texas Rose. This 15-year-old gelding has been out only three times this spring but has placed in the top 10 each time. Avery and Winston are certainly making the most of their Rebecca Farm prep with a strong outing on the flat, scoring 54.8 to sit in second.

Andrea Baxter and her mare, Indy 500, are always strong competitors in the three-star divisions out west, and today proved nothing else. Remember that this mare loves to jump, and we might see them end on their dressage score of 60.7, which currently has them in third place. They are certainly capable of moving up the leaderboard.

Jolie Wenworth is riding Maddy Mazzola’s Mojito this weekend. Mojito can be a tough horse in the sandbox and has had trouble coping with the atmosphere at shows this year. Unfortunately, it looks as if Mojito had difficulty settling today as well.

CIC 3 star scores dressage

Heather Morris and Team Express's Charlie Tango. Photo by Stephanie Nicora.

Heather Morris and Team Express’s Charlie Tango. Photo by Stephanie Nicora.

Amber Levine and Guiness St. James Lead CIC2*

Amber Levine had a great day in the CIC2* sandbox with two excellent rides. Amber is currently sitting in first on 48.6 with Valorie Mackey and her own Guiness St. James. The 10-year-old bay Irish Sport Horse is contesting his first two-star and doesn’t seem to be bothered by the change in difficulty — at least in dressage! They were the only pair to break the 50 threshold in the division.

Jolie Wentworth and Kate Miller’s Gordon Biersch stepped up to their second attempt at the two-star level in fine style, bettering their best dressage score by 1.9 points to score 50.0. The charming chestnut Thoroughbred has had a spotty record this spring, but at 10 years old, he’s primed to step out and make a statement.

In third on a score of 52.2 are Lauren Billys and Marseille, the lovely 15-year-old Belgian Warmblood Lauren recently acquired. Lauren competed at Woodside in May to win the Open Preliminary division, and it looks like this will be an exciting pair to watch in the future.

Amber Levine and her own Carry On sit fourth on 53.0 in the tight top rankings. The bay Dutch Warmblood is only 8 and is improving with every outing. Amber has produced this horse from the Novice level, starting their partnership together in 2012.

Rounding out our top five are Heather Morris and Charlie Tango on a score of 53.6. We’ve gotten used to seeing these two at the top of the standings, and Chuck’s careful jumping is sure to put pressure on the pairs sitting ahead. The 7-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding and Heather won their most recent outing at the CIC2* at Twin Rivers in April.

CIC 2 star scores dressage

Gina Economou and Calidore. Photo by McCool Photography.

Gina Economou and Calidore. Photo by McCool Photography.

Advanced 

Barb Crabo and her own Over Easy have been working their way back up the levels after some difficulty in 2013, but Maggie has predicted them to win. Sure enough, the Swedish Warmblood mare performed beautifully today and is leading the division on 33.8.

Ashlynn Meuchel, a member of Area VI’s 2013 Young Rider team, and Sarah Broussard’s Morning Star scored 39.3 to sit in second. Last fall the pair won Advanced at Woodside in October and recently came in sixth at Twin River’s April CCI2*— definitely a pair to watch for the future.

Erin Murphy and Athlone Travel On stepped up to the two-star level this spring and have done quite well for themselves. The skewbald gelding came from Great Britain, where Julie Tew rode him in his first FEI competition. They are a fun pair to watch — it’s always nice to see a little color at the higher levels! They’re sitting in third on 40.9.

Washington-based Kevin Baumgardner and Wembley are another pair we’d like to welcome back to the West Coast! After successfully completing the CIC2* at The Fork and the CCI2*, Jersey Fresh — where they came in 20th out of 40 — the pair have returned to Copper Meadows for their first go at Advanced, scoring 41.5 for fourth place.

Sarah Braun, 2014 USEA Groom of the Year, and her own Perfect Intentions are also contesting their first Advanced this weekend. Sarah almost lost “Candy” last year due to colic, but they’re back in the game this year thanks to a huge rallying of the West Coast eventing community, the doctors at San Luis Rey, Sarah’s indomitable spirit and Candy’s own refusual to give up. This mare has a fiery spirit and loves to jump, so it’s nice to see them perform so well in the dressage, scoring 43.7 for fifth place. I’m sure Candy’s eye was on the cross country course the entire time!

Gina Economou and Calidore, also known as Leo — a big bay gelding with a personality to match — recently won the Open Intermediate at Galway Downs. While their dressage wasn’t their best today, this horse has the scope to jump Mars, and they are well positioned to move up the leaderboard.

With a new course designer for the West Coast in Hugh Lachore, it’s possible there will be some major shake ups as we look ahead to cross country. Stay tuned for much more from Copper Meadows! Go #copperstrong.

Update! Update!: In wonderful fashion, after some concerns from the riders were voiced, Copper’s fantastic event organizers took their concerns into consideration. Currently, riders and volunteers and event staff alike are moving the show jumping ring. Subsequently, the timing of the CIC 2*, 3* and Advanced divisions will be starting stadium at 7 am Pacific, and will complete XC that afternoon.

It’s a classy act at Copper Meadows, folks – competitors, organizers, volunteers, spectators and vendors. Go eventing, go teamwork, and Go #copperstrong!

Copper Meadows Links: Website, Entry Status/Ride Times, Live Scores

Advanced scores dressade

Friday Video from World Equestrian Brands: Copper Meadows CIC3* Cross Country Preview

By on Jun 5, 2015 5:30 pm -

CIC 3* Coursewalk With Hugh Lochore Copper Meadows June 2015

Frankie Thieriot and Ride On Video have teamed up again this weekend to bring us some great video coverage from Copper Meadows. Frankie chatted with Hugh Lochore, the new course designer for Copper Meadows this year, about his vision for the CIC3* cross country course.

The video shows us each question on the course and includes some special commentary from others as volunteer coordinator Margie Davis, who is one of the hard working individuals who helps ensure the show runs seamlessly.

We posted our predictions for the CIC3* earlier today, and we’ll be bringing you more coverage from the West Coast all weekend. Go Copper!

Copper Meadows: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Ride On Video]

Selena O’Hanlon Is Watching the Bromont CCI3* Throne

By on Jun 5, 2015 4:47 pm -
Selena O'Hanlon and Foxwood High. Photo by Leslie Wylie. Selena O'Hanlon and Foxwood High. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Canadian Jessica Phoenix won the CCI3* here last year and now teammate Selena O’Hanlon is doing her part to ensure that the crown stays on home turf.

She and Foxwood High laid down a seamless test this morning to take the early lead and hung onto it throughout the afternoon despite challenges from second-placed Emily Beshear and third-placed Marilyn Little.

Selena and Foxwood High — 1st (46.7)

Selena comes to Quebec with her longtime partner and WEG mount “Woody” as a re-route from Rolex, where they had a less-than-happy Saturday.

“I didn’t actually come here to prove that I could do circles,” Selena says. “I came here to prove I could get him going back on the cross-country after a disappointing Rolex but it certainly is icing on the cake.”

Dressage may not have been their top priority but you couldn’t tell it from their test, which was relaxed yet expressive. “I was worried he might be tense but he just went to work,” Selena said.

Mostly, she says, she’s just eager to gallop out of the start box and give her horse a confidence building round. She’s prepared to pick up a few time penalties in favor of making sure he crosses the finish line feeling like a prince and plans to take the option at fence 20, a bending line with a big, watery ditch to an angled hedge to a corner. “Too much is riding on this and I really more than anything just want to go clear tomorrow — I don’t care about the time so much,” she says.

This is Woody’s third Bromont — they’ve done the CCI2* and CCI3* once apiece — and Selena says he’s come off the sprawling, hilly cross-country course a bit tired in the past. This time, though, she says he feels fitter than ever, so here’s hoping the pair finds the redemption they’re seeking without having to step on the brakes too much.

Bromont is the final selection trial for the Canadian Pan Am team and Woody is among the horses Selena has qualified. She’s earned her stripes already, representing her country at the 2014 World Equestrian Games and the 2011 Pan Am Games in Guadalajara, and says she would love to be named to the Toronto squad.

“I love the team,” Selena explain. “I hate losing out on the team things. I just have such a good time…  It’s more than just the show, it’s the coaching you get and the lessons learned.”

Emily Beshear and Shame on the Moon. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Emily Beshear and Shame on the Moon. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

 

Emily and Shame on the Moon — 2nd (48.4)

Emily says that Bromont has been part of the game plan since Fair Hill last fall, as preparation for her ultimate 2015 goal: Bleinheim in September. She felt that, between the toughness of the course and the challenging terrain, it would be a better prep for them than last month’s Jersey Fresh.

First things first, of course, was the dressage.  Like Selena, Emily expected the atmosphere to generate a bit of electricity in her mare and was surprised when it produced just the opposite.

“She was really relaxed and almost lazy so I didn’t quite have the test I hoped for,” Emily says, nitpicking at a few little mistakes. “I know what she’s capable of but I was thrilled with the fact that she was so quiet and relaxed in that environment. It shows we’ve come a long way.”

As for the course tomorrow, she’s impressed but looking forward to the opportunity to attack.

“There’s a lot to do,” she says. “In a sense it’s what I hoped for. It’s what I feel like she’s ready for.”

Emily says she keeps joking that it’s time to start riding Delta like a grown-up three-star horse and not the baby she has been carefully bringing up through the levels.

“There are a lot of lines where you have to be determined and accurate,” Emily says. “Delta is certainly ready for those challenges and I need to convince myself she’s not green anymore and I need to go out and ride the course the way it’s meant to be ridden.”

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter — 3rd (48.5)

Rounding out the top three is Marilyn and RF Demeter. This mare was unofficial Eventing Nation statistician Maggie Deatrick’s pick to win the whole division in her By the Numbers post earlier this week:

After a disappointing stop at the coffin early on the Rolex course, Marilyn chose to retire RF Demeter in hopes of saving her legs for another day. That day is here, and Marilyn and Demeter will be looking to pick up their first win at the CCI3* level.

An average of 49.2 for this particular test will put these two at or near the top after the first phase. Marilyn and RF Demeter finished double clear over Derek’s Rolex course in 2014, and it’s likely they will repeat that feat here.

An overall show jumping average that leans slightly towards one rail for these two won’t stop them from picking up the win. A final score in the low 50s will help this pair top the field.

Maggie’s prophecies are spot-on more often than not and, if the mare has her groove back after Rolex, a top finish here is far from out of the question. Certainly, Marilyn is on a roll, leading the CCI2* as well with RF Overdressed.

For more videos from all divisions of the Bromont CCI, visit The Horse Pester’s YouTube page.

CCI3* Photo Gallery

CCI3* Dressage Results:

3star

On the topic of Canadians and crowns, local eventer and Pan Ams hopeful Peter Barry and Long Island T have the CIC2* lead on lock.

CIC2* Top 15:

2star

Best of luck to all the competitors tomorrow. Alléz Concours Complet!

Bromont: Website, Entries, Schedule/Ride Times, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Area II Announces 2015 NAJYRC CH-J* Squad

By on Jun 5, 2015 3:00 pm -

NAJYRC team announcements are pouring in, and talented young riders from all over the country are getting the call to step up to represent their respective areas this July at the Kentucky Horse Park. Area II announced their CH-J* team and alternates yesterday, and high hopes rest on this talented team as Area II is the defending CH-J* champion.

We took a few minutes to get to know the CH-J* team members, so without further ado here is your 2015 Area II NAJYRC CH-J* team!

Morgan Booth and Twizzel. Photo by Kate Samuels.

Morgan Booth and Twizzel. Photo by Kate Samuels.

Morgan Booth and Twizzel, Will Coleman’s former Olympic ride, are fresh off of a third place finish in the CCI* at Virginia Horse Trials. Morgan began competing Twizzel in 2014 with NAJYRC as her main goal. And this pair is on a roll. Save one pesky TE in their first event together, they have failed to finish outside of the top three in five events together.

Morgan’s been working with both Will and Katie Coleman to really get to know all of Twizzel’s buttons, and they’re primed to make a great showing in Kentucky next month. This will be her first appearance at NAJYRC.

What is your number one goal for NAJYRC this year? “I would say my number one goal is to have our best performance in Kentucky. He’s such a special horse and I would love to do well for him and for Will. Specifically, I would love to put in our best test and finish on our dressage score. I’m so excited for this experience with a great team!”

Amanda Clement and Peter Pan. Photo courtesy of Brant Gamma.

Amanda Beale Clement and Peter Pan. Photo courtesy of Brant Gamma.

Amanda Beale Clement is another NAJYRC first-timer who will be competing Susie Beale’s Peter Pan, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred gelding. This pair has many miles at the Preliminary level and most recently completed the CCI* at Ocala. In 9 starts at the Prelim or one-star level, Amanda and Peter Pan have finished outside of the top 10 just once.

What part about being a member of the Area II team are you most excited about? “I am very excited for the opportunity to be apart of the area 2 team and cannot wait to build a strong relationship with my team and my horse.”

Skyler Decker and Inoui Van Bost. Photo by Lauren Mannix.

Skyler Decker and Inoui Van Bost. Photo by Lauren Mannix.

Skyler Decker and Inoui Van Bost, her 7-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding, have been together since 2014, where Skyler started her partnership with him at Novice. They’ve just stepped up to Prelim together this year and also completed the CCI* at Virginia last month. This pair has also been very competitive at the Prelim level and will certainly add even more depth to the Area II team.

While this is Skyler’s first time competing at NAJYRC, she traveled with the team to groom for Area II and Grace Fulton in 2014.

How did you find out, and what was the first thing you did? “I woke up to my email alarm and it was the team announcement. I think I probably texted my mom, Ella (Groner), and my coach, Lillian Heard.”

Ella Groner and My Security Blanket. Photo by Sam Groner.

Ella Groner and My Security Blanket. Photo by Sam Groner.

Ella Groner and Beth Mueller’s My Security Blanket were also named to the Area II team and also train with Lillian Heard. Ella began riding My Security Blanket in 2014 after the 15-year-old Thoroughbred finished a brief campaign with Lillian, and the pair hasn’t looked back.

Ella and My Security Blanket won their Junior Training division at USPC Championships and went on to place third in their Preliminary debut at Loch Moy in October of 2014. They also completed the CCI* at Virginia last month in preparation for July at the Horse Park.

What was the first thing you did when you got the team announcement? “I texted my trainer, Lillian Heard. She has helped me to become the rider I am today, and I couldn’t have done it without her.”

Camilla Grover and Remington XXV. Photo via Camilla Grover.

Camilla Grover and Remington XXV. Photo via Camilla Grover.

Yet another former four-star horse is making an appearance at NAJYRC this year: Boyd Martin’s former ride, Remington XXV. After finishing his time with Boyd, “Remi” went on to Caitlin Silliman, who was looking to gain some more mileage and experience at the upper levels. From there, Remi moved to Camilla Grover-Dodge, who will be taking the reins in the CH-J* this year.

Camilla began riding Remi in 2014 at Training level, and the number of blue ribbons they’ve earned together is impressive. They picked up four consecutive wins at the very beginning of their partnership and have also completed a hat trick of wins at the Prelim/CIC* level in 2015.

What is the first thing you’ll do when you arrive in Kentucky? “When I first get the the horse park I will probably go out and explore around to get an idea of where everything is! Unless the horses are there first, then I will definitely go check on Remi first!”

Morgan McCue and Shannondale 54. Photo by Leigh McCue.

Morgan McCue and Shannondale 54. Photo by Leigh McCue.

Morgan McCue and Shannondale 54 round out the CH-J* team for Area II. Shannondale 54 is a 6-year-old Irish Sport Horse who came to Morgan in 2014 after competing with Ryan Wood and Jon Holling. Morgan also competed Shannondale 54 in some Young Event Horse divisions, in which he consistently placed at or near the top.

This is another pair that has been virtually unstoppable, collecting numerous top places at Training level before stepping up to Prelim. After moving up this past winter, Morgan and Shannondale 54 have completed three CIC* and one CCI* in their campaign to represent Area II.

What do you think the most important part of your preparation for NAJYRC has been? “Getting my horse mentally and physically prepared!”

Alternates were also named for the CH-J* team in the event one of the team members is unable to compete: Kira Statue and Castle Jordan, Sunny Greene and Flinder’s Chase, Quinn Riddle and Folk’s Hero, and Emma Stolzenthaler and Wynthrop.

Congratulations to the Area II CH-J* team! Don’t forget, we’re looking for guest bloggers from Kentucky this year, so if you are interested in contributing, please contact [email protected].

#EventerProblems, VI

By on Jun 5, 2015 1:30 pm -

Eventing Nation, I think you have a problem.

Actually, you’ve got a whole big bunch of problems. Our #EventerProblems series rages on with 20 more reader-submitted troubles that only eventers will understand.

If you missed them: Part I, Part II, Part III, Part IV, Part V.

When you wear a hole in the calf of your tall boots before the foot has any sign of wearing out… #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Megan Moore (@teamceoeventing) on

How my weekend horse show started. #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Christy DeMauro (@demauroeventer) on

My mare Sallie is disrespectful to my trainer Mark Combs! #eventerproblems, #EN

A photo posted by Judy Hart Lancaster (@legend7g) on

Pirate peed a big puddle and now he’s afraid to stand in it…

A photo posted by Kate Drake (@katedrakevt) on

3 boot trees- 2 boots #horsegirlproblems #eventerproblems

A photo posted by Kate Drake (@katedrakevt) on

Tie had a wardrobe malfunction… luckily he has a nice auntie who fixed it for him.

A photo posted by Kate Drake (@katedrakevt) on

“Why on earth would you make me jump this mom?” #eventerproblems #jumpallthethings #jumper #eventer #eventing

A photo posted by Jessica Childs (@jessicatamar) on

What’s YOUR problem? Tweet it, Instagram it or share it on Facebook with the hashtag #EventerProblems for inclusion in the next edition of this series.

Go Eventing!

By the Numbers: Copper Meadows CIC3* & Advanced

By on Jun 5, 2015 12:00 pm -
Barb Crabo and Eveready. Photo courtesy of Sherry Stewart. Barb Crabo and Eveready. Photo courtesy of Sherry Stewart.

At this point in the season, we are probably getting a sneak preview of the pairs who might be contesting the inaugural CCI3* at Rebecca Farm, as Copper Meadows is the last Advanced and three-star event on the West Coast prior to the July event. Hopefully some East Coast pairs will come out for Rebecca, but there will almost certainly be a large contingent from the west ready to defend their turf.

There are only four pairs in the CIC3*, but all four have quite a bit of experience at this level. In complete contrast, the Advanced division is fairly green, with one experienced horse stepping back up to the level after a hiatus, one pair with a couple of Advanced runs under their belt from last year, and three pairs who will be attempting the level for the first time. I’m predicting that one rider in particular will be having a very good weekend.

The Advanced division is performing 2014 USEF A-B while the CIC3* runs 2015 FEI 3*-A. The cross country course designer is Hugh Lochore, who isn’t often seen out west, and the show jumping course designer is Jose Nava, who only designs in the west.

WINNER: CIC3*

Barb Crabo and Eveready: Although this pair’s Rolex experience may have ended earlier than they would have liked, their consistent form out west will see them return to the top this weekend. By far the most experienced pair of the group, returning to their territory will give them a confidence booster moving into the rest of the year.

These two have performed this test only once so far, scoring a 51.5 at Galway Downs in March. Although they haven’t seen one of Hugh Lochore’s courses yet, they’ll probably be the quickest of the bunch, averaging only six time penalties across the country. They do average one rail when attempting Jose Nava’s stadium courses, but will be able to hold onto the win with a score in the low 60s.

Barbara Crabo and Over Easy. Photo courtesy of Chesna Klimek.

Barbara Crabo and Over Easy. Photo courtesy of Chesna Klimek.

WINNER: ADVANCED

Barb Crabo and Over Easy: After running into some trouble at the Advanced and CIC3* levels last year, Barb dropped her younger horse Over Easy down to Prelim and Intermediate for the fall and spring seasons. Several confidence building runs culminated in a win at the Galway Downs CIC2* in March, and Barb is bringing this mare back out at this level for the first time in almost a year.

Over Easy averages a 40.2 on this test, which is quite a bit above her typical average. Like most West Coast horses, she hasn’t seen a Hugh Lochore course yet, but averages 9.6 time penalties when going clear across the country. A tendency to have one rail over Jose’s designs will not keep this pair from winning, ending on a score in the low 50s.

Great Meadow Unveils Exciting Entry List for Inaugural CIC3*

By on Jun 5, 2015 10:30 am -
The new Hammock on the Great Meadow CIC3* course. Photo courtesy of Great Meadow. The new Hammock on the Great Meadow CIC3* course. Photo courtesy of Great Meadow.

Entries closed this week for the inaugural Great Meadow International CIC3*, and we have a very exciting lineup of horses and riders slated to compete June 19-21 in The Plains, Virginia. In addition to the U.S. and Mexican Pan American Games teams contesting the prep trials for Toronto, 21 combinations are slated to tackle Mike Etherington-Smith’s new CIC3* course.

Great Meadow limited entries in order to preserve the pristine footing on the grounds, which also host the famed Virginia Gold Cup steeplechase every year. While the venue once hosted the Middleburg Horse Trials, Virginia Horse Trials and the Commonwealth Dressage and Combined Training Association horse trials, Great Meadow has not hosted an FEI event since 2001.

In looking at the entry list, you’ll notice that some of the alternates for the U.S. Pan American Games team are not entered in the Pan Ams prep trials (PA-EV) division. That’s because the alternates were given a choice of competing in the Pan Ams class or the CIC3*, as some of the riders wanted to use the three-star as a qualifier for events later this season.

Joanie Morris, USEF managing director of eventing, confirmed that which division the riders compete in will not affect their chances at being selected as the traveling reserve for Toronto, so it will be an action-packed weekend as we follow along with Team USA in both the CIC3* and the Pan Ams division.

All of the U.S. team members — Phillip Dutton with Fernhill Fugitive and Fernhill Cubalawn, Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett, Boyd Martin and Pancho Villa, and Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous — are required to compete in the Pan Ams division. We’ll also see alternates Matt Brown and BCF Belicoso, Will Faudree and Pfun, and Lauren Kieffer and Vermiculus in this division.

The remaining U.S. Pan Ams alternates are competing in the CIC3*, along with a strong group of heavy hitters. EN’s data analyst Maggie Deatrick, who is competing in the CIC3* with her own Divine Comedy, will be unveiling her picks for the top five as we get closer to the event, but here’s a quick rundown of who will be battling it out for the win.

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda: These U.S. Pan American Games team alternates are coming off their first four-star completion at Rolex Kentucky and will start in this event with a very good chance to win it. “Ping” is arguably the top three-star horse in the country right now, averaging a third-place finish and 100 percent completion rate at the CIC3* level.

Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM: The U.S. Highest Scoring Horse of All Time is coming off the first CCI3* win of his career at the Jersey Fresh International Three-Day Event. Buck and “Reggie” competed at this venue last year at the World Equestrian Games prep trials and will come into the CIC3* as heavy favorites. Buck also has Petite Flower entered in the CIC3*.

Boyd Martin and Shamwari 4: Shamwari was the highest placed U.S. horse at the 2014 WEG and is widely expected to be Boyd’s top contender for the U.S. Olympic team in Rio de Janiero next year. Boyd has been keeping him bubble wrapped with Rio in mind, so this might be one of your only chances to see him in action at an FEI event in the U.S. this year. He’ll also be riding Crackerjack in the CIC3*.

Michael Pollard and Cyrano: Heavy favorites for the U.S. Pan Ams team, these alternates are coming off a big win at the Jersey Fresh CCI2* on a final score of 36.9. Great Meadow will be their second event at the Advanced level as a combination, but the horse has experience to burn having competed at the 2012 London Olympics with owner Carl Bouckaert. Watch for them to be extremely competitive. Michael is also competing Ballingowan Pizazz in the CIC3*.

Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights: Colleen’s homebred star and EN wunderkind was the highest-placed U.S. horse after dressage at Rolex Kentucky and ultimately finished 11th in his first four-star. Also keep your eye on Escot 6, a freak of a jumper who just finished seventh in his first CCI3* at Jersey; he’ll be Colleen’s second ride in this division.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum: In hot contention for that traveling reserve spot to Toronto, Mai Baum is stepping up for his first CIC3* to show he’s a serious horse for the future. The horse is also entered at the Rebecca Farm CCI3*, so he needs a qualifying score at Great Meadow to keep that plan on track.

Lynn Symansky and Donner: The highest-placed Thoroughbred at Rolex Kentucky was also a team horse at the 2014 WEG in Normandy. Donner showed he really liked this venue last year with a memorable dressage test at the WEG prep trials. If Lynn and Donner can replicate that performance, they’ll be highly competitive in this field.

The following combinations are also entered in the CIC3*: Sydney Conley Elliott and Cisko A, Hallie Coon and Celien, Sally Cousins and Abecca GS, Ellen Doughty Hume-and Sir Oberon, Justine Dutton and Jollybo, Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Fly Me Courageous, Kurt Martin and Delux Z, Bobby Meyerhoff and Dunlavin’s Token, and Julie Norman and Consensus.

Mexican team coach Karen O’Connor is bringing her Pan Ams team to compete in the prep trials as well: Daniela Moguel with Cecilia and Agave, Abraham Ojeda and Obusero, Alan Triana and Ofrenda, and Guillermo de Campo and Quelite. It’s exciting to have another team represented at this event, and we look forward to giving the Mexicans a big EN welcome at Great Meadow.

To round out the international flavor of the Pan Ams division, Nilson Moreira de Silva will also be representing his native Brazil aboard Muggle in his quest to compete in his first Games in Toronto. That gives us a total of 36 horse and rider combinations competing at Great Meadow.

Nearby Surefire Horse Trials is running on the same weekend to create “a festival of eventing in hunt country,” and the organizers of both events are hoping Great Meadow spectators embrace that concept and visit Purcelville to watch the competition at Surefire. The event is adding a wine and beer garden to its event this year, as well as tailgating spots, which you can purchase at this link.

Be sure to read our detailed preview story on Great Meadow, which gives a rundown of everything you need to know. Darrin Mollett, co-organizer, confirmed that VIP tables are still available for the event, which has a variety of fun activities planned throughout the weekend. Grace, the famous trick mule that has been featured on NBC, is the most recent addition to the entertainment lineup.

If you’re coming into town early, don’t miss “The Past, Present, and Future of Eventing” panel discussion at the National Sporting Library and Museum from 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 17. Jim Wofford, Karen O’Connor and Mike Etherington-Smith will talk about the historic progression of eventing, from its early days to its current form. A light reception will be held at 6 p.m. Admission is $10 or free for library and Great Meadow Foundation members.

Follow #LandRoverGMI on Facebook here and Twitter here to stay up to date on the latest news. The Great Meadow website also has a wealth of information and is your go-to destination for buying tickets. General admission is $40 per car load for one day or $100 for all three days. VIP tickets start at $150.

Go Great Meadow. Go Eventing.

#LandRoverGMI Links: Website, Entries, Schedule, Tickets, Volunteers, Sponsors

5 Questions for the Win: Ryan Wood

By on Jun 5, 2015 9:02 am -
Ryan Wood and Woodstock Wallaby. Photo by Leslie Wylie. Ryan Wood and Woodstock Wallaby. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Ryan Wood had a pretty solid Thursday. He and Woodstock Bennett set the pace in the CCI2*, sharing the lead with Sharon White throughout the morning and ending up tied for fifth at the end of the day.

With four horses running this weekend — two in the CCI2* and two in the CCI3* — we figure that an extra helping of EN karma can’t hurt. Well, you’re in luck, Ryan!

Each day here at Bromont we’re doling out a big scoop of good luck vibes to a deserving CCI3* rider … but there’s a catch. They have to answer five random questions on one of our favorite subjects — winning — on camera, on the spot. There are no right answers, but it does take a fair amount of bravery to play “ask anything” with the Internet’s most no-holds-barred eventing website. Fortune favors the bold!

We caught up with Ryan yesterday after dressage to offer our karmic services. The perennial good sport, he nodded his head like a champ with only the faintest trace of fear in his eyes.

Thanks for playing, Ryan. Hope that karma treats you well, and good luck this weekend!

Alléz Concours Complet!

Bromont Links: Website, Entries, Schedule/Ride Times, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Friday News & Notes from FLAIR Nasal Strips

By on Jun 5, 2015 12:03 am -
The Four Star Eventing Group's Butch Cassidy sits in 2nd place in the CCI* with Will Coleman at Bromont. Photo via Will Coleman Eventing.

The Four Star Eventing Group’s Butch Cassidy sits in 2nd place in the CCI* with Will Coleman at Bromont. Photo via Will Coleman Eventing.

I think this is the first time in recent memory that I’ve been super jealous of the weather at Bromont versus what I’m experiencing here at home. It has done nothing but rain all week, and while on one hand I’m thrilled (because the footing, duh!), the other hand tells me that it’s depressing to be wet for more than two days in a row. I’m gonna go ahead and say this is a sign I shouldn’t move to England or Ireland.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

GMHA June H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Gennessee Valley Driving & Riding Club Spring  H.T. [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Plantation Field H.T.  [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

The Middleburg H.T.  [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

River Glen June H.T.  [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Roebke’s Run CCI/CIC & H.T.  [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Texas Rose Horse Park Summer H.T.  [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Copper Meadows CIC & H.T.  [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Arrowhead H.T.  [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Derbyshire Farms H.T.  [Website]

News From Around The Globe:

Congratulations to Beth Libby, the winner of this week’s Fab Freebie from Bucas! Beth will receive a lovely Bucas Buzz Off Fly Sheet — we’re sure her horse will appreciate it! [Fab Freebie: Bucas]

Surefire Horse Trials is still accepting entries at all levels for the June 19-21 event. Beginner Novice through Intermediate courses designed by Tremaine Cooper at Jan Byyny’s gorgeous farm in Purcellville, Virginia are always a favorite for locals. They’ve added a wine and beer garden and tailgating this year, too! [Website] [Omnibus Listing]

Wear purple this weekend in honor of Seema Sonnad. A movement has begun for those attending, volunteering, or competing at events this weekend to wear purple in honor of Seema, who suddenly passed away last week. Purple was Seema’s color for cross country, and she could often be seen sporting a purple polo while volunteering as well. I’ll be competing at Plantation Field on Saturday, one of Seema’s favorite events to volunteer at, and will proudly be wearing purple in honor of this incredible woman.

William Fox Pitt is back on top of world number one standings after his win at Badminton. After Michael Jung temporarily ousted him at Rolex, WFP is back on top, with a fifteen point lead. Right behind them? Oh, this American dude named Boyd Martin, he’s in third place or whatever. [William Back On Top]

The 2016 Worth The Trust Scholarships are now open for application. If you are a young amateur rider or an adult amateur looking for a opportunity to fund your eventing education, you should consider applying. Worth The Trust scholarships give thousands of dollars to riders looking for ways to get more lessons, take more clinics, learn about course design, and many other opportunities. Applications open through October 1st. [Worth The Trust Scholarships]

We all love Jon Holling, and maybe a little more than usual because of his recent videos, but do you know what he’s been up to since he broke his leg this March? While he was originally planning to go to Rolex, that didn’t actually work out, and it turns out he’s sold his 4* mount, Zatopek B in the meantime. The Chronicle of the Horse caught up with him recently to chat about everything, including #winnerswearhairnets. [Ringside Chat with Jon Holling]

The British are just killing everyone on the FEI World Rankings for ALL equestrian sports. William Fox Pitt is in first place in Eventing, Scott Brash is in first place in show jumping, and obviously Charlotte Dujardin is murdering everyone in the Dressage world. What are they drinking? How do we get some of it?! [British Are All Number One]

If there’s one thing I’m a little superstitious about, it’s my cross country whip. Everyone has a favorite style, and mine is the jockey whip. Did you know you could get custom ones with different colors and different shaped poppers?  Yeah, you can. You can also order it through SmartPak, so you know it’s gonna be awesome. [Fowler’s Custom Jockey Whips]

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Marilyn Little and RF Overdressed Literally Spring into Bromont CCI2* Lead

By on Jun 4, 2015 6:59 pm -
Marilyn Little and RF Overdressed. Photo by Leslie Wylie. Marilyn Little and RF Overdressed. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Like seriously, I think the horse has springs on its feet.

RF Overdressed is a fresh-off-the-boat German-bred Hannoverian, the sort of floaty-boat warmblood that puts you in a trance when it enters the ring.

Video courtesy of The Horse Pesterer:

Can’t get enough of that sexy trot? I offer this GIF from a video The Horse Pesterer posted of their CIC2* test at Pine Top Advanced earlier this year:

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Marilyn concurs: “That’s a good way of putting it — he has a real spring in his step.” She and co-owners Jacqueline Mars and Robin Parsky imported the horse in December and recalls that, after David O’Connor first sat on him, he warned against leaving him to be her last ride of the day.

“He’s just very, very bouncy,” Marilyn says. “It is like riding a trampoline. The good news is he has a wonderful cadence, so if you’re feeling spry you just wrap your legs around him and go for a ride. But if you’re not, you feel like a rag doll.”

Marilyn originally thought the horse might be a prospect for the Pan Am Games but soon backed off from that plan, focusing instead on laying a sound foundation for the long-term. “He’s only 8 our our partnership is still quite new,” she explains.

They’ve done well for themselves at the 1* level this spring, most recently besting a field of some 70 entries at the Ocala CCI1*. They’ll be looking for their first 2* completion this weekend and are off to a hopeful start, laying down a 40.9 that puts them nearly five points ahead of 2nd placed Mikki Kuchta and Rubens D’Ysieux.

marilyn2

Marilyn Little and RF Overdressed. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Mikki kindly stopped by the media center to tell us about her ride today. Rubens D’Ysieux is a 10-year-old Selle Francais, imported about four years ago by a client for whom he ended up being just a little too much horse.

“She had me start riding him and we just got along great,” she says, noting that he used to have a tendency toward being nervous and tense but has since settled into the sport: “He loves all three phases — he’s been a pleasure to train and ride.”

Indeed, their test today was fluid and relaxed, and Mikki says he gave her the ride she knew he was capable of. “This was everything we’ve been working on,” she says. “This is test we knew we had in him and it was great to get it today and he has more coming. He’s so expressive and talented and strong, and he’s just going to get fancier and fancier. So this is not his best test for the future but his best test for today.”

Video courtesy of The Horse Pesterer:

Mikki guided Rubens around his first Advanced earlier this year and has confidence in his ability to make short work of Saturday’s track. “The course looks good,” she says. “I just have to do my job. He’ll jump through the flags if I can show them to him.”

Since we’re in a GIFing mood, and we don’t want anyone to feel left out, here’s another Horse Pesterer clip of the pair jumping through the Advanced water at Pine Top:

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Rounding out the CCI2* top three is Sharon White and her striking dark dappled grey Cooley On Show.

It was her second ride of the day, having taken the morning lead on Clifford M, who is now tied for 5th. The two horses have been nipping at one another’s heels all spring, trading places on the scoreboard from event to event, and both are in a position to be very competitive this weekend.

Sharon White and Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Sharon White and Cooley on Show. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Video courtesy of The Horse Pesterer:

Whether you’re Team Cooley…

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Credit: RNS Video

…or Team Clifford…

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Credit: RNS Video

…there’s no question that Sharon’s weekend is off to an exciting start.

CIC2* Top 15:

2star1

CCI1* Top 15:

2star1

Team Eventing Nation will be back bright and early Friday morning, bringing you live dressage reports from the CCI3* and CIC2* divisions. The first tests kick off at 10:30 a.m. with Ryan Wood leading off in the 3* and Arden Wildasin in the 2*.

One last GIF for the road…

mgiz9Alléz Concours Complet!

Bromont: Website, Entries, Schedule/Ride Times, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram