Classic Eventing Nation

EN TRENDS:

A Horse of a Different Color: Nite of Fame

By Lindsey Kahn on Apr 5, 2015 9:00 am -

"A Horse of a Different Color" features horses and ponies that have been successful in the sport of eventing while representing a unique breed. Do you have a horse that you think would be a great feature subject? If so, email [email protected].

Nite of Fame and Brooke Schafer performing at the 2014 Secretariat Festival. Photo by Lindsay Hunter.

After trying several other careers with varying success, Nite of Fame the 12-year-old pinto American Saddlebred gelding has found his calling as an event horse.

Fame’s owners Lindsay Hunter and Brooke Schafer say that he wasn’t quite sure what type of horse he wanted to be for a large part of his early life. Purchased as a yearling to be a breeding stallion, Lindsay quickly discovered that although he was a beautiful and flashy pinto, he only produced solid-colored foals. After that, Fame was broke to ride but never shown or competed. He was offered for sale, but without any show experience and a low-set neck (which isn’t ideal for the typical American Saddlebred), Fame struggled to find his place in the show horse world.

At the age of 9, he was gelded and Lindsay began using him as a riding horse at her farm in Nicholasville, Kentucky. In 2013, Brooke decided to take Fame on as a project and after several months it was quite obvious that he had no desire to travel with his head and knees held high like the traditional Saddlebred. It was time for a new game plan.

Nite of Fame winning the Bluegrass Futurity. Photo by Doug Shiflet.

Brooke found out about a futurity featuring American Saddlebred hunt seat horses and decided to prepare Fame for the division. With only three weeks to prepare, she worked very hard to get him in shape to show. Lo and behold, Fame won the Bluegrass Futurity at the Kentucky Horse Park! It seemed as though he had found his calling.

After this milestone, Lindsay suggested to Brooke that Fame might enjoy some jumping. Brooke had been eventing for several years and decided to give it a try with Fame. The first exercise gave an immediate answer – on the lunge line, Fame jumped a small cross rail repeatedly with no guidance, clearing it with several feet to spare.

Nite of Fame jumping at the 2014 Secretariat Festival. Photo by Michelle Partridge.

From that point, Lindsay and Brooke decided to pursue a jumping career for Fame. Brooke began to work with her coach Allie Knowles and friend Julie Norman for advice on the best way to start and guide Fame to success. Fame began jumping in June of 2014, and by September he was a presenter in Paris, Kentucky’s Secretariat Festival, where he jumped in front of a large crowd to represent the versatility of the American Saddlebred. By December, he was named the 2014 American Saddlebred National High Point Jumper.

Fame schools cross-country at the Kentucky Horse Park in 2014. Photo by Ashley Mueller.

Lindsay and Brooke are excited about his future in eventing. Fame is entered in the Spring Bay Horse Trials in April, with many more plans for the future. He already has a very large following in the American Saddlebred community and is helping to raise awareness for the breed. If you see him at an event, make sure to come up and say hello!

Sunday Links from One K Helmets

By Erin Critz on Apr 5, 2015 12:01 am -

Fraizer, my favorite tack-shop dog, loves One K Helmets! Photo from Tack Warehouse

Show season is a bit like the holiday season. We buy a lot of presents for ourselves in the form of new gear and until it’s right up on top of you, you seem to forget exactly how busy things are! Not only do we have all of the excitement of final Rolex preps and Rolex travel going on, but we also have some very fun stuff for the Adult Riders out west that comes together next weekend. The Adult Team Challenge at Twin Rivers has a staggering 32 teams entered this year. The party is likely to be out of control – we’re West Coasters, it’s what we do. April is a wonderful time of year when each weekend just seems to get more and more exciting! I’m not sure how I’m going to have enough energy to keep up with everything that is going on. I already consume what could be described as a near lethal amount of caffeine just to get going in the morning.

U.S. Weekend Action:

The Fork H.T. & CIC [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Scores]

CDCTA Spring I H.T. [Website] [Entry Status][Scores]

Chattahoochee Hills H.T. [Website] [Entry Status][Scores]

Spring Bay H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Sunday Links:

Another Michigan horse tests positive for EHV-1, quarantine continues

Museum celebrates 125th birthday of wooden horse

New York woman charged with stealing horse

Free horse camp offered by Placer County Sheriff’s Office in Northern California

After year of tumult, new leaders say Devon Horse Show will go on

Whip use in horse racing debated

Sunday Video: 18 sleeps away from Rolex!

What It’s All About: A Social Media Recap from The Fork

By Sally Spickard on Apr 4, 2015 8:49 pm -

Tamie Smith is a happy camper tonight with Mai Baum and Fleur de Lis, first and third in the CIC2*. Photo via Mackenna Shea on Facebook.

The FEI divisions as well as the Advanced wrapped up today at The Fork, and the riders who are bound for Kentucky are breathing a collective sigh of relief after a safe day of cross country. While a few fell victim to Tremaine Cooper’s course, we’re pleased to report that it appears everyone is just fine, except for possibly a few bruised egos, as the sun sets on North Carolina. And that is the most important thing at the end of each competition day!

Sinead Halpin had an unlucky fall from Grey Area in the CIC2* today, but she’s reporting that all’s well this evening. Good thing eventers are hard headed, right? We wish Sinead the best and are happy to hear she will be ok after knocking her head.

Phillip Dutton had a great day on cross country, who piloted all four of his rides home clear across tough courses. Phillip will head to Kentucky next with Mighty Nice, Fernhill Fugitive, and Fernhill Cubalawn.

Jessica Bortner-Harris and Win the War romped around the Advanced cross country, logging the second fastest time of the Advanced B division. Needless to say, Jessica is thrilled with her mighty OTTB and how well he stepped up to the plate all weekend.

Liz Riley and It’s the Truth were the second to last pair out on cross country in the Advanced division today, and from the sound of the announcer it sounds like they had a blast out there. This pair also blazed around the course to move up from 28th to 19th overall.

EN’s very own Kate Samuels also had a great day today, easily coming home clear on the Advanced cross country to move up to seventh place overall. Kate has been thrilled with Nyls all weekend — well, maybe not so much with his dressage, but he quickly redeemed himself with two fantastic jumping rounds. Way to go, Kate! #ENkarmaalltheway

I also must give a shout-out to Kelsey Briggs and The Gentleman Pirate, who skipped around the CIC2* cross country course today, surviving a very hairy moment thanks to some quick thinking and good riding. You may remember Kelsey and her incredible story with her OTTB — if not, catch up here and become a fan!

Cheers to Justine Dutton for managing to stay in the saddle today! Just joking, Justine! But after parting ways unluckily at Poplar Place in their last run, redemption is sweet! This pair also skipped around the Advanced cross country with just time added. It’s on to Jersey Fresh for this talented mare!

And, finally, one of our favorite photos of the day. Win, lose or draw — this is what our sport is all about. The camraderie we witness is unmatched, and it’s heartwarming to see Buck congratulating Jennie Brannigan on her CIC3* win. When the dusts settles, our horses’ happiness and our relationship with our peers are two of the most special and important things in this sport. It’s definitely worth remember when times get tough. We hope you’re celebrating tonight, Jennie! Well deserved.

Go Eventing.

#TheFork: Website, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Lauren Kieffer, Tamie Smith, Molly Tulley Celebrate Wins at The Fork

By Jenni Autry on Apr 4, 2015 8:00 pm -

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica. Photo by Jenni Autry.

There’s just no other way to say it: Lauren Kieffer is on a roll as we count down the days to the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, delivering a double clear round with Team Rebecca’s Veronica to win the Advanced A division at The Fork on their dressage score of 23.

“She was great, and I went out to have a quicker run to get ready for the next few weeks, and she was right on point — super straight to everything,” Lauren said. “She loves to go out there and run and jump, and now you just go out and don’t screw up.”

Lauren and Veronica our are reigning USEF National CCI4* Champions, and the simple fact of the matter is she remains a major threat to take that title for a second year in a row with the 13-year-old Dutch mare. “At the end of the day, I’m just shooting to perform at her best, especially on the first day,” Lauren said. “She’s not going to do anything wrong.”

Not to be outdone by “Troll,” Court and Kylie Ramsay’s Czechmate held his lead after show jumping to clinch the win in the Advanced B division with Lauren on 31.1. While he’s not aiming for Rolex, the 9-year-old Czech Warmblood gelding still has a big event ahead at Jersey Fresh, where he has the chance to make go all in for a spot on the U.S. Pan American Games team.

“I’m thrilled with how we went today, and it was good for him because it was more galloping toward the end, which suits him as a big-striding horse,” Lauren said. “I know now that I can go out and pull the trigger when I need to, and I know he’s going to jump all the jumps.”

Lauren was also very happy to have both Landmark’s Monte Carlo finish fourth in the 9-year-old gelding’s second Advanced and Landmark’s Monaco jump clear cross country around the 8-year-old stallion’s first CIC2*. The horses are full Irish/Thoroughbred siblings bred and owned by Jacqueline Mars, by Formula One out of Glamour, and Lauren said it was really special to have Ms. Mars here today to watch both horses go so well.

Winner winner! Photo via Mackenna Shea.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum Win CIC2*

Things went awry at the top of the CIC2* leaderboard when overnight leader Sinead Halpin parted ways on her first CIC2* ride Grey Area, which forced her to withdraw overnight leader Topgun. Sinead confirmed on Twitter that she’s just fine after bonking her head and was disappointed to have to withdraw — just one of those things that can happen when the top 25 percent of the division runs in reverse order.

Then Peter Barry and Long Island T became the ones to beat, as they sat in second place after show jumping, but they picked up a technical elimination after going off course. With Lillian Heard and Abbie Golden’s Arundel picking up 3.2 time penalties, the CIC2* win went to Tamie Smith and Alex Ahearn’s Mai Baum, who jumped clear with 1.2 time to take the blue ribbon.

“He is so fast because I don’t ever have to touch the reins; I can just keep going,” Tamie said. “He has a really big stride and was incredible out there.” Tamie and “Lexus” will stay on the East Coast to aim for the CCI2* at Jersey Fresh, basing at Will Faudree’s Gavilan Farm outside Southern Pines, North Carolina, to take advantage of his all-weather gallop.

Tamie also had a fantastic run with the Team Milton Syndicate’s Fleur de Lis in the horse’s first CIC2*, finishing third on a score of 44.7 with a clear trip and 2.8 time penalties. She found the 10-year-old Dutch gelding through Matt Flynn in 2013 and put together a syndicate after Jennie Brannigan recommended she seriously consider the horse.

While “Milton” has always been a quirky ride, Tamie said the partnership is finally to a place where they can work together across all three phases, and he was a star this weekend in all three phases. “He was tricky in the beginning, and I worked a lot to get him right and did a lot of groundwork with him to develop the partnership,” Tamie said. “I’ve taken my time with him, and he’s just really come around after being a misfit nobody would ride.”

Molly Tulley and Last Call. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Molly Tulley Takes CIC* Win

Molly Tulley capped her fairytale weekend with Allie Knowles’ Last Call by delivering a clear round with just .8 time penalties to win her second one-star on a score of 43.8. Molly said in yesterday’s press conference that she’s grateful to have the opportunity to ride such an experienced horse in this 16-year-old Mecklenberg mare.

She hoped the pieces would come together this weekend after her successful CIC* debut aboard “Fergie” at Carolina International two weeks ago, and we’re thrilled for Molly, Allie and the whole AK Eventing team that they did.

Beau Guimond looked to be having a great time aboard his own Filibuster ST, an 8-year-old Hanoverian gelding Boyd Martin picked out and ultimately encouraged Beau to buy. The purchase seems to be paying off, as the horse finished second in his first CIC* today with one of the 10 double clear trips in the division.

Selena O’Hanlon’s rides always look like they’re having a blast galloping across the country, and today was no different with Kelly Damp’s Zephyr. The 13-year-old gelding made it look easy as he romped around Tremaine Cooper’s course to finish double clear in his first CIC2* on 44.3 to take home third place.

Click here for a full breakdown of final scores across all the divisions that wrapped up today. If you missed the full report on Jennie Brannigan’s CIC3* victory with Tim and Nina Gardner’s Cambalda, be sure to click here to read the full play-by-play, and stay tuned for much more from The Fork.

#TheFork: Website, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda Clinch The Fork CIC3* Win

By Jenni Autry on Apr 4, 2015 4:00 pm -

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Jennie Brannigan punched the air as she crossed the finish line aboard Tim and Nina Gardner’s Cambalda, knowing that a clear trip inside the time gave her the win in The Fork CIC3* on her dressage score of 42.8. It’s the second time in the last five runnings of this CIC3* that she’s won aboard her longtime partner “Ping,” a 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding, and they’ll take this positive momentum forward to Rolex Kentucky in three weeks.

“He actually wanted to go today, which I’m not used to,” Jennie said. “He didn’t feel like he wanted to hesitate at anything, which is cool because he doesn’t always feel like that. Hopefully he’s starting to come into form and we’re not peaking too soon. He just felt spot on everywhere.”

Now Jennie and Ping look ahead to Kentucky, where they’ll hope to end the weekend with a number score. After Ping slipped on pavement and had to be withdrawn before the trot up in 2013 and then jumped all the way around the course last year only to receive a technical elimination for missing a flag, this pair is due a little good luck in Kentucky.

“I think the horse ran well at Kentucky last year,” Jennie said. “He’s way fitter now than he ever has been before. Jumping around at Rolex made me confident, and then having Fair Hill go well, Wellingon go well, Red Hills go well and now today, I feel like our partnership is getting more and more consistent. I’m excited and looking forward to Kentucky.”

Buck Davidson and Ballynoecastle RM. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Carl and Cassie Segal’s Ballynoecastle RM is peaking at just the right time with Buck Davidson, with the veteran four-star campaigner preparing to make his fourth return trip to Rolex. “Reggie,” a 15-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding, skipped around today to deliver one of the seven double clear trips in the division, taking second place on a final score of 45.7.

“He was so good and was a machine out there,” Buck said. “I’m very excited with where he is in all three phases right now. Like I say every time, it’s an honor to be riding him. I feel like I know him and trust him, and he trusts me and knows me too. We’re just having fun right now.”

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter moved into the top three after also jumping double clear, scooting up the leaderboard from 16th after dressage to finish on their final score of 50.8. Like Jennie and Ping, this is another combination that historically performs well at this venue, and Marilyn and “Demi,” a 13-year-old Oldenburg mare owned by Team Demeter, have never finished lower than fourth in four appearances at The Fork.

“To be honest, she felt the best that she ever has,” Marilyn said. “It’s wonderful to be able to come back to the same event year after year because you have a wonderful gauge of where the horse is in that point of the season and in its career. The way she galloped today and the way she felt, I’ve just never felt her like this. I’m thrilled for the horse.”

Marilyn Little and RF Demeter. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Marilyn said she was also very happy that Jacqueline Mars, a member of Company Team Demeter, could be in attendance today to watch Demi storm around the course. “She is a very seasoned horse now, and it’s a privilege to ride a horse with her amount of experience. Going into Rolex with a partner who has seen what she’s seen makes it that much more exciting.”

Lynn Symansky and her own Donner, who won the CIC3* here in 2013, jumped clear with just .8 time penalties to finish in fourth place on 52.4 — which means EN’s Maggie Deatrick correctly predicted the entire top four in the CIC3*. How’s that for some accurate crystal ball reading? Phillip Dutton and Tom Tierney and Annie Jones’ Fernhill Fugitive, who also jumped clear with 1.2 time penalties, round out the top five on a score of 52.9. The entire top five are all entered at Rolex.

In addition to the pairs already named, the following combinations also jumped double clear: Erin Sylvester and No Boundaries, 8th; Sharon White and Wundermaske, 9th; Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High, 11th; and Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Fly Me Courageous. All of these horses and riders are also heading to Rolex.

Lynn Symansky and Donner. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Tremaine Cooper’s CIC3* definitely caused some drama, particularly when Caroline Martin and Pebbly Maximus fell at the sunken road at fence 11, the Uwharrie Bank Hollow, which was revamped this year after now appearing on course last year. The ground jury elected to remove the sunken road from the course at that time, as they had not been happy with how it rode for the first few horses. We confirmed with Caroline that thankfully both she and “Rory” are OK.

As it usually does, the coffin at fence 8, the Land Rover Leap, caused several problems, and the following pairs had runouts here: Holly Payne and Santino, Holly Jacks-Smith and More Inspiration, and Kelly Prather and Blackfoot Mystery. The cheese wedge combination at fence 17 also caught out a couple pairs: Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights, who still managed to make the time; Kelly Prather and Blackfoot Mystery

We saw some scrappy rides at the mound complex at fence 21 toward the end of the course, which was a new addition last year. Numerous horses and riders executed impressive Superman launches over the log on the top of the mound; Tamie Smith had a runout here after circling a very fired-up Twizted Syster before the brush at the A element to regain control.

The second water complex at fence 15, appropriately named the Rocking River Crossing, had a number of riders worried yesterday, but it rode well for most of the combinations today. Holly Payne and Santino did pick up 20 here after taking the option at B, and Tim Bourke and Luckaun Quality had a bummer of a glance off at the brush corner in the water at B.

Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Mackenna Shea and Landioso also picked up 20 on their score card at the Rocky River Crossing after the horse left a leg at the brush corner at B in the water, which knocker her off balance and made it impossible for them to get to the arrowhead at C. Kurt Martin and Delux Z also had a runout at this water complex.

Zach Brandt and Cavallino Cocktail parted ways at the first water, the fish pond at fence 13, and “Skotty” was taken back to the barns in the horse ambulance as a precaution after cutting her leg. Thankfully, Zach confirmed later in the afternoon that the mare is totally fine aside from being a little scraped up.

You can relieve all the action in our live updates thread at this link and see all the scores at this link, and be sure to check Thehorsepesterer’s YouTube channel for cross country videos. We’ll be back soon with score updates and photos from the Advanced, CIC2* and CIC* divisions, so stay tuned for much more from The Fork.

#TheFork: Website, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin

By Sally Spickard on Apr 4, 2015 2:30 pm -

OTTBs are among the most prominently represented breed in the eventing world. Each day, hundreds of ex-racehorses find themselves at the end of their racing career and in need of a new home. Luckily, organizations such as CANTER, New Vocations, Recycled Racehorses, and many more are always on alert for new horses that are ready for second careers. Each week, we'll be bringing you a few OTTB ads that caught our eye. Keep an eye out here for your next eventing superstar!

Every year when the Rolex entry list goes live, I always peruse the list for former racehorses. There’s just something special about seeing a racehorse thriving in its new career, and while of course I prefer eventing to be that career it’s definitely a known fact that these versatile horses can be invaluable in just about any avenue of life. Just take this Quarter Horse trapped in an OTTB’s body over on Horse Nation.

Just like I peruse the Rolex list for OTTBs, I also find myself constantly window shopping for horses who have that sparkle that just gives me those stomach butterflies we all are familiar with. Luckily, I seem to have landed on the perfect OTTB for myself — and while I wish had the financial security to take in another (or three), I know that there are good homes just waiting for their next perfect match. Perhaps yours is listed in this week’s wish list! Have a look:

Photo via CANTER Illinois.

If you’re a fan of chestnuts with some bling, you’ll stop and look at Boom Boom Billy, a big handsome 3-year-old just listed with CANTER Illinois. Boom Boom Billy (Mauk Four – Bridget’s Tribute, by Gold Tribute) has raced three times and is slated to make his fourth start at Fairmount Park today.

Standing 17 hands tall, this guy is said to be well mannered and sound for any discipline. He’s just ready to take on his new career outside of the racetrack. Low miles on this one, and he’s ready to finish in the way you please!

Boom Boom Billy on CANTER Illinois

Photo via CANTER Mid-Atlantic.

Kwiatkowski is our next listing this week, available through CANTER Mid-Atlantic. Kwiatkowski (Delta Miner – Chrome, by Rhodes) is a 2011 colt who has raced a total of six times without hitting the board. This guy stands 16 hands and is said to be a nice mover who will finish out as a nice sport horse. He’s got clean legs and is available at Mahoning Valley in Austintown, Ohio.

Kwiatkowski on CANTER Mid Atlantic

Photo courtesy of New Vocations.

If color is your thing, we’ve got a sampler pack for you this week! Our final featured listing of the week is Desert Doc, a 6-year-old gelding currently available for adoption through the Lexington, Kentucky chapter of New Vocations. Desert Doc (Kela – Jessica, by Doc’s Leader) is our biggest earner this week, racing 21 times for a total career earning of $33,628. He’s been off the track since 2013, though, so he’s had time to settle into life away from the racing world.

At 16 hands, Desert Doc is said to be stockily built and a very easy going guy. New Vocations has found that he really seems to prefer to be a one-person horse, so he’d be perfect if you’re looking for that one horse to form a bond with.

Desert Doc on New Vocations

The Fork Advanced Live Cross Country Updates: Lauren Kieffer Wins Both

By Sally Spickard on Apr 4, 2015 12:25 pm -

Fence 2 - Uwharrie Technology Trap House

It’s already been a jam-packed day in Norwood, North Carolina as the CIC* and CIC3* contested their cross country courses already. Now, it’s the Advanced division’s turn, and Lauren Kieffer will look to take home the win aboard stablemates Veronica and Czechmate. That’s right, Lauren is currently leading both the Advanced Test A and Advanced Test B divisions, and she’s doing it on two scores in the 20s at that.

Tremaine Cooper’s cross country course is formidable, though, so we’ll be looking for some leaderboard shakeup as these combinations get out on course. Refresh this page to keep up with our live updates, and you can also follow along with the PRO Radio Tour here.

#TheFork: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram, PRO Radio Tour

2:10 p.m. EST: That’s a wrap for the Advanced divisions at The Fork! We’ll have a full report coming your way shortly.

2:07 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Czechmate were 7 seconds over for 2.8 time penalties. Very close for the top three in the Advanced B, with Boyd and Pancho Villa finishing on a 31.1. Lauren and Czechmate have scraped by to win on a 30.6 provisionally. How’s that for total domination?

2:06 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Czechmate are home clear, let’s see what her time is.

2:03 p.m. EST: Boyd and Pancho Villa finished 6 seconds over time. Liz Riley and It’s the Truth on their way to the finish. Lauren and Czechmate have the course to themselves.

2:02 p.m. EST: Liz Riley has a hard jump into the water and does good to stay aboard. Kate Chadderton is over 21.

2:02 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Czechmate are on course – can she win both Advanced divisions today?

2:01 p.m. EST:

2:00 p.m. EST: Boyd and Pancho Villa are clear through 18 and 19, Kate Chadderton is at the water at 13 and Liz Riley is clear through 6.

1:59 p.m. EST: Liz Riley and It’s The Truth are on course on their way to 2 and 3.

1:57 p.m. EST: Busy girl Kate Chadderton and VS McCaun Civil Liberty are on course.

1:56 p.m. EST: Boyd Martin and Pancho Villa are headed for fence 7. Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Catchascatchcan are clear through 20.

1:55 p.m. EST: Sally Cousins and Tsunami are clear through 10.

1:51 p.m. EST: Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Catchascatchcan are on course, Victoria Jessop are clear through 12. Ellie MacPhail finishes 18 seconds over in her final prep run with RF Eloquence before Rolex.

1:50 p.m. EST: An uncharacteristic refusal at the water with Ziggy for Andrew McConnon. They’ve picked up a second refusal on the next attempt, and now Andrew’s put his hand up. He’s walking Ziggy through the water to end on a good note. #horsemanship

1:49 p.m. EST: Allison and Mr Sydney Rocks have a hairy go at the water but make it work.

1:48 p.m. EST: Ellie MacPhail and RF Eloquence are nearing the end of their course. Just about 8 more to go today. Victoria Jessop and Desert Mystery are the next to go.

1:46 p.m. EST: Allison Springer and Mr Sydney Rocks are on course and clear through 8. Andrew McConnon and Ziggy are on their way. Ryan Wood and McLovin are clear at 22.

1:43 p.m. EST: Elinor MacPhail and RF Eloquence are on course now. Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo are clear at 18. Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby are home clear. Course appears to be riding very smoothly for this division overall.

1:40 p.m. EST: Ryan Wood and McLovin’ are on their way to fence one. Lisa finishes in 6:55 so she just accumulates 3.2 time penalties.

1:38 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer on course again with Landmark’s Monte Carlo. Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming are home with a clear round and a big smile. She’ll feel great heading into Kentucky with this run.

1:38 p.m. EST: 7:23 for Justine and JollyBo, 7:12 for Colleen Loach. Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming are clear at 18, Lillian is clear at 7.

1:36 p.m. EST: Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby are the new starters. Colleen Loach and Freespirit are on to fence 21, almost home now.

1:35 p.m. EST: Mara DePuy and Coolcorron Kinsale have called it a day at the turtle pond. Brian remarks that the horse got a little caught up on the jump in. They’re walking home.

1:34 p.m. EST: Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming are on course now. This little New Zealand Thoroughbred is a jumping bean! Justine Dutton and JollyBo are jolly good with a clear round and through the finish.

1:33 p.m. EST: Mara DePuy and Coolcorron Kinsale are clear through 9. Justine Dutton and JollyBo are nearing the finish at fence 21.

1:32 p.m. EST: Mara DePuy and Coolcorron Kinsale are on course now. Kate Chadderton and Buckharo are on their way home at 21.

1:30 p.m. EST: Justine and JollyBo are clear through 13. This mare has continued to improve with each start. Allie Knowles and The Dark Mark are home clear with 3.6 time penalties.

1:30 p.m. EST: Colleen Loach and Freespirit are on course now.

1:28 p.m. EST: Justine Dutton and JollyBo are on course and clear through 5. Jessica Bortner Harris and Win the War are just 3 seconds over for 1.2 time – she’ll be positively thrilled with that finish on a score of 53.5.

1:26 p.m. EST: Kate Chadderton and Buckharo are clear through 6. Caroline Martin finishes in 7:05, 18 seconds over with Spring Easy for 7.2 time penalties added.

1:23 p.m. EST: Jennie Jarnstrom finishes in 7:08 with Cape Town. Jessica Bortner Harris are on their way to 18. Allie Knowles and The Dark Mark are on course and clear through 12.

1:22 p.m. EST: Jessica Bortner Harris and Win the War are the new starters. Caroline Martin and Spring Easy are clear through 8.

1:20 p.m. EST: A hard landing at the water for Jennie Jarnstrom and Cape Town but Jennie sticks with it. #stickthelanding

1:20 p.m. EST: Caroline Martin and Spring Easy are on course.

1:19 p.m. EST: Dana Widstrand unfortunately parts ways from Relentless Pursuit at the water. Both she and Rover appear to be ok; Rover appeared to leave a bit of a leg at the jump in.

1:18 p.m. EST: A better view of the Carolina Farm Credit Curve that’s causing issues.

Fence 5 – Carolina Farm Credit Curve

1:17 p.m. EST: Meghan O’Donoghue, Ryan Wood and Lauren Kieffer are all home with time. Sally Cousins and Abecca GS are turning for home. Dana Widstrand is on her way to fence 8. Jennie Jarnstrom and Cape Town are the new starters.

1:15 p.m. EST: Steppin’ Out says no again at 5B, so unfortunately that’s an elimination for this pair. Dana Widstrand and Relentless Pursuit are on course now.

1:14 p.m. EST: Nora and Steppin’ Out have a runout at 5B, and another at their second attempt.

1:13 p.m. EST: Nora Battig and Steppin’ Out are on their way to fence 1. Ryan Wood and Fernhill Classic is clear through 23 and on to the finish. Sally Cousins is clear through 12, Lauren Kieffer is at 18.

1:11 p.m. EST: Sally Cousins and Abecca GS are on course. Lauren Kieffer and Meadowbrook’s Scarlett are coming to the water at 13. Meghan O’Donoghue and Pirate have just two to go.

1:09 p.m. EST: Moving into the Advanced B division, Lauren Kieffer is back on course with Meadowbrook’s Scarlett.

1:08 p.m. EST: Meghan O’Donoghue and Pirate are clear through 12. This crowd favorite is headed to Kentucky next. Will Coleman adds .8 for Obos O’Reilly for a 31.9.

1:07 p.m. EST: Ryan Wood and Fernhill Classic are on course now. Kristin Schmolze is over 17, Will Coleman is almost home with just one to go.

1:04 p.m. EST: Kate Chadderton finishes in 7:11, Phillip and Fernhill Cubalawn in 6:51. Babette Lenna and Little Oliver pick up just 1.6 time penalties. Will Coleman and Obos O’Reilly are in and out of the turtle pond. Kristin Schmolze and Ballylaffin Bracken are clear through 9, Courtney Cooper and Who’s A Star are through 20. Meghan O’Donoghue are on their way.

12:57 p.m. EST: Kate Samuels and Nyls have 2.8 time, Katie Frei have 20 jumping and some time.

12:56 p.m. EST: Kevin Keane and Fernhill Flutter are the newest starters. Kate Chadderton is on her way to 19.

12:55 p.m. EST: Kate Samuels is clear through 22 and on her way home. Phillip Dutton clear through 9.

12:53 p.m. EST: Maya and Doesn’t Play Fair are double clear to finish their weekend on a 31.2. Phillip and Fernhill Cubalawn are the next starters.

12:51 p.m. EST: Lillian Heard and Share Option pick up .8 time for a final score of 27.4. Will Faudree has withdrawn Andromaque. Kate and Nyls are clear through 12. Kate Chadderton and Collection Pass are on course.

12:50 p.m. EST: Kate’s pre-xc ritual:

12:49 p.m. EST: EN’s very own Kate Samuels and Nyls du Terroir are on course! #enkarma

12:48 p.m. EST: Katie and Houdini have a runout at 5B.

12:47 p.m. EST: Katie Frei and Houdini are the newest starters. Lillian Heard and Share Option are on to the finish.

12:45 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Veronica will retain their lead to win the Advanced Test A with a double clear aboard Veronica, finishing on a 23.0. Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair are away.

12:43 p.m. EST: Holly Payne and Never OutFoxed finished double clear to remain on a 38.3. Jimmie Schramm and Bellamy finish in a time of 7:21. Abby Hamblin and Silver Flash are on course. They’ve had a runout at 5B coming a bit too quick down the hill.

12:43 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Veronica are clear at 20. Jimmie Schramm and Bellamy are on their way home.

12:42 p.m. EST: Lillian Heard and Share Option are on course and coming to fence 4.

12:41 p.m. EST: Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect have fallen at 3, they are both up and appear to be ok.

Fence 3 – First Health Trellis Table

12:38 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Veronica are clear through 12.

12:37 p.m. EST: Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice are home with 3.6 time for a 30.7 on the weekend.

12:36 p.m. EST: Jimmie Schramm has a runout at 5, clear on the second attempt.

Fence 5 – Carolina Farm Credit Curve

12:35 p.m. EST: Phillip is clear through 19. Holly Payne is making her way to the turtle pond, and our new starter is Jimmie Schramm and Bellamy. #webelieveinbells

12:33 p.m. EST: Holly Payne and Never OutFoxed are up next. Phillip Dutton is clear through 15.

12:31 p.m. EST: And we’re off! Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice are clear through 4 and 5. These horses will run a very similar course, minus the final water and a couple of other fences.

Lexington Area Recovering from Torrential Rain, More Rain Forecasted

By Sally Spickard on Apr 4, 2015 11:30 am -

The entrance to Kentucky Horse Park virtually unrecognizable. Photo by Courtney Carson.

With just three weeks to go until nearly 100 horses and riders gallop around cross country at Rolex, the Lexington area is warily eyeing the ground as over five inches of rain have fallen on the area in the last 24 hours.

Competitors arriving to compete at Spring Bay this weekend were greeted by torrential downpours and flooded facilities.

Photo via Jennifer Williams Finlan on Facebook.

Courtney Carson, who is scheduled to compete her horse, Bird Is the Word, at Spring Bay this weekend, anticipated the competition being turned into a CT, although the cross country is held at nearby Masterson Station Park and not the Horse Park. Thankfully today, though, it looks like cross country was given the green light to run tomorrow! Cross country is held on Sunday, and the sun is expected to be out today which may help dry the ground a bit.

With all of the rain that’s drenched the area, some of us are surely wondering how the massive amounts of accumulation will affect the cross country course later this month — especially if more rain comes down between now and then. Unfortunately at the latest glance at the forecast, the rain isn’t scheduled to abate anytime soon, save for a dry and sunny weekend. Here’s a look at the upcoming week:

Via weather.com.

Historically, the remainder of April records an average of less than a quarter of an inch of precipitation daily. We’ve been fortunate to have great weather at Rolex, for the most part, the past few years, so here’s hoping that the ground will dry and the rain will let up in time to allow the hard working crew at the Horse Park time to prepare for the arrival of Rolex.

Courtney Carson updated us this morning that Kentucky Horse Park roads are clear of water now, which is a huge relief after seeing the images from yesterday.

Photo via Jen Roytz on Instagram.

The same spot, one hour later. Photo via Jen Roytz on Instagram.

We’ll be keeping an eye on the weather this weekend, and we wish all riders competing at Spring Bay the best of luck, as well as those who live in the Lexington area. Please send us your rain updates, as we’ll continue to update our readers leading up to Rolex. You can send any tips or media to [email protected].

Front entrance of KHP at 6pm. We are pulling out onto Iron Works. What you are seeing is the “in” before the guard shacks

Posted by Lara Knight on Friday, April 3, 2015

Stay dry, EN! Here’s a few more photos of the incredible precipitation pounding Lexington this week.

: Photo via Jen Roytz on Instagram.

: The same spot, one hour later. Photo via Jen Roytz on Instagram.

: Photo via Jennifer Williams Finlin on Facebook.

: Photo via Jennifer Williams Finlin on Facebook.

: Photo via Jenn O’Neill on Facebook.

: Photo via the Spring Bay Horse Trials Facebook page.

: Photo via the Spring Bay Horse Trials Facebook page.

: Photo via the Spring Bay Horse Trials Facebook page.

The Fork CIC3* Cross Country Live Updates: Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda Win

By Sally Spickard on Apr 4, 2015 10:00 am -

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Happy cross country day, EN! It’s going to be a busy day of cross country action, and we’ll be bringing you live updates from both the CIC3* and Advanced divisions thanks to the live radio stream provided by PRO. You can follow along on the radio stream here, and be sure to refresh this page periodically for the latest updates.

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda triumphantly torched the course to come home as the seventh double clear pair to secure their win. The stars have certainly aligned for this pair as they head to Rolex next. We’ll have the full report up shortly!

#TheFork: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram, PRO Tour Radio

12:48 p.m. EST: Fist pump!

12:17 p.m. EST: And that’s the seventh double clear of the division and a WINNER for Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda! Live scores have not updated yet, but Buck Davidson and Reggie were in a close second. We’ll have the full report coming soon!

12:16 p.m. EST: Jennie and Cambalda are home! Waiting on the time.

12:16 p.m. EST: Jennie is heading to the last combination. She’s got 7 seconds in hand to retain her lead.

12:15 p.m. EST: Anyone else make a “Ping” sound whenever they watch Cambalda jump, knowing that’s his barn name? Just me?

12:14 p.m. EST: It’s all Jennie now as Buck crosses the finish double clear. She takes out the flag on the corner in the water but she kicks on. Buck finishes on a 45.7.

12:13 p.m. EST: Buck Davidson and Reggie are on their way home. Jennie Brannigan is approaching the big water. Liz Halliday-Sharp was home clear with time.

12:12 p.m. EST: Jennie Brannigan is clear through 8. Mackenna Shea finishes on a time of 7:48 and 20 jumping.

12:10 p.m. EST: Your leaders Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda are over the first!

12:10 p.m. EST: Sir Rockstar enjoys a well-deserved ice break:

12:08 p.m. EST: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Fernhill By Night are into the splash at 15. They make quick work of it and are clear through there. Buck is clear through 6. Mackenna and Landioso are turning for home.

12:07 p.m. EST: Second placed Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM are on course!

12:07 p.m. EST: Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights still managed to make the time despite their runout, finishing on a 70.3

12:05 p.m. EST: Landioso catches a leg on the corner and Mackenna almost comes out of the saddle. Caused a runout at the jump out as they were a bit off balance but she’s clear on the second attempt.

12:04 p.m. EST: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Fernhill By Night are on their way, in third place overnight.

12:03 p.m. EST: Bummer! Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights have a runout at the cheese wedges at 17. Clear on their second attempt.

12:02 p.m. EST: Great ride at the water for Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights. Marilyn Little and RF Demeter are home with a double clear to remain on a 50.8. #chestnutlightning

12:01 p.m. EST: Mackenna Shea and Landioso are on their way. Marilyn Little is on her way home.

12:00 p.m. EST: Boyd and Master Frisky add 4.4 time for a provisional final of 55.3.

11:59 a.m. EST: Boyd is on his way home with Master Frisky. Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights are on course.

11:56 a.m. EST: Marilyn Little and RF Demeter are on course now. You can anticipate a quick round from these two.

11:55 a.m. EST: Phillip and Fernhill Fugitive have 1.2 time for a provisional total of 52.9. Lynn Symansky is clear through 19. Boyd and Master Frisky are clear through 9.

11:53 a.m. EST: We’re into the top 8 now – pressure’s on!

11:53 a.m. EST: Boyd Martin and Master Frisky are on course. Phillip has two to go.

11:52 a.m. EST: Kurt Martin and Anna Bella are home with just 3.6 time for a three day total of 55.8. Phillip and Fernhill Fugitive are clear through 19, Lynn and Donner clear through 12.

11:49 a.m. EST: Lynn Symansky and The Flying Deer (Donner) are on course.

11:47 a.m. EST: Kurt Martin and Anna Bella are clear through 15 after Kurt had the runout there with Delux Z.

11:47 a.m. EST: Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Fugitive are on course.

11:46 a.m. EST: Kelly Prather picks up her second run-out on course at 17.

Fence 17 – PricewaterhouseCoopers Wedges

11:45 a.m. EST:

Beaulieu’s Cayenne looking so impressive. Big cheers from Julie Richards’ team as they cross the finish

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) April 4, 2015

11:44 a.m. EST: Bramham bound Kurt Martin and Anna Bella are on course. Julie Richards and Beaulieu’s Cayenne are home with just 3.6 time.

11:43 a.m. EST: Kelly Prather and Blackfoot Mystery have a glance off at 8. They’re clear on their second attempt. This combination has caused a handful of problems today.

11:41 a.m. EST: Julie Richards is clear through the water at 15. Sharon White and Wundermaske are the fourth double clear of the day to finish on a 56.8.

11:40 a.m. EST: Tim Bourke and Luckaun Quality finish with 20 jumping and some time. Kelly Prather and Blackfoot Mystery are away.

11:38 a.m. EST: Sharon White and Wundermaske very handy through the water at 15.

11:38 a.m. EST: Julie Richards and Beaulieu’s Cayenne are on course now.

11:36 a.m. EST: Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Fly Me Courageous log a double clear! A final provisional score of 62.7 for these two.

11:35 a.m. EST: Tim Bourke just misses his line to the last element at 15 with Luckauan Quality. He’ll reroute to the alternate route and he’s clear on that attempt. Unlucky.

11:35 a.m. EST: Sharon White and Wundermaske are the next on course.

11:34 a.m. EST: Cavallino Cocktail will hitch a ride back on the trailer, it appears she cut her leg a bit but is ok. No hold on course.

11:31 a.m. EST: Timothy Bourke and Luckaun Quality are on course.

11:30 a.m. EST: Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Fly Me Courageous are clear through 8. Caroline and Quantum Solace finished with a time of 7:13, 24 seconds over for 9.6 time.

11:28 a.m. EST: Zach Brandt falls victim to the splash at 15. Both horse and rider are up and appear to be ok. Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Fly Me Courageous are on course.

11:27 a.m. EST: 10.8 time penalties for Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley, no jumping. Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace are on their way to 18.

11:25 a.m. EST: Amanda and Cool Decision are home 26 seconds over time. Caroline Martin with Quantum Solace as well as Zach Brandt and Cavallino Cocktail are on their way. Liz and HHS Cooley are clear through the last combination, on their way home.

11:21 a.m. EST: Amanda Wilson and Cool Decision are good through the splash. Liz Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley are now on course.

11:19 a.m. EST: 8 time for Michael and Walterstown Don for a total provisional of 60.5

11:18 a.m. EST: Update on Pebbly Maximus, he is apparently doing just fine after riding home in the trailer. Great news!

11:17 a.m. EST: Amanda Wilson and Cool Decision are on course. Michael Pollard and Walterstown Don are home with no jumping penalties. Holly Jacks and More Inspiration choose the option at 15.

11:15 a.m. EST: Holly Jacks and More Inspiration have a refusal at 8. They’re clear on the second attempt.

Fence 8 – Land Rover Leap

11:14 a.m. EST: Didn’t hear too much about Colleen’s ride with Shiraz, but they’re home. Holly Jacks and More Inspiration are now on course. Michael Pollard is clear through the splash at 15.

11:12 a.m. EST: Selena O’Hanlon finishes 13 seconds UNDER the time on Foxwood High. How’s that for a double clear? #moversandshakers

11:11 a.m. EST: Michael Pollard and Walterstown Don are the newest starters.

11:09 a.m. EST: Buck Davidson has withdrawn Copper Beech.

11:08 a.m. EST: Jessie and A Little Romance are through the finish 9 seconds over for 3.6 time. That finishes them on a provisional of 61.4. Lovely ride through the splash at 15 for Selena and Foxwood High.

11:07 a.m. EST: Colleen is back on course with Shiraz this time.

11:05 a.m. EST: Good recovery by Jessie Phoenix after a big jump into the water at 15. Showing her experience here. Erin Sylvester stops the clock 3 seconds under, the first double clear of the day!

11:04 a.m. EST: Jessie Phoenix is clear through 10, Erin Sylvester is almost home at 21. Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High are next on course.

11:03 a.m. EST: Phillip and I’m Sew Ready are the quickest with just 1.6 time and a final score of 57.2.

11:01 a.m. EST: Big Phil and I’m Sew Ready are home clear. Erin Sylvester and No Boundaries are clear through the first water at the Turtle Pond. Jessie Phoenix and A Little Romance are on their way.

11:00 a.m. EST: Kelly Prather and Truly Wiley, Becky Holder and Can’t Fire Me and Leslie Law and Zatopek B all withdrew.

10:59 a.m. EST: Erin Sylvester and No Boundaries are on course. They’re heading to Rolex next.

10:58 a.m. EST: A great ride through the water at 15 for Phillip and I’m Sew Ready. Big cheers for the Carolina International CIC3* winners. Kurt Martin and Delux Z are almost home.

10:55 a.m. EST: Kurt Martin and Delux Z have a runout at the water at 15. Libby Head and Sir Rockstar have just 2 time – the best of the day! She will finish on a total of 73.4.

10:54 a.m. EST: Boyd and Crackerjack finish on a 67.3 with 10 time penalties. Phillip and I’m Sew Ready are now on course.

10:52 a.m. EST: Tame Smith and Twizted Syster had a runout at 21. Caitlin was the second fastest of the time, just 6 seconds over. Libby Head and Sir Rockstar as well as Kurt Martin and Delux Z are on course. Libby had one of the best rides so far through the splash.

10:45 a.m. EST: Boyd Martin and Crackerjack are on course. Caitlin is clear through the Turtle Pond.

10:43 a.m. EST: Tamie and Twizted Syster had a very close call at the corner in the water at 15 but she’s got it done! #msstickability

10:43 a.m. EST: We’re back underway with Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster, who is clear through 12. Caitlin Silliman and Catch a Star are now on course.

10:34 a.m. EST: Fence 11 is going to be removed from the course after the ground jury determined it was not riding safely. The striding was rather tight; good decision by the ground jury.

Fence 11 – Uwharrie Bank Hollow

10:30 a.m. EST: Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato have just 2.8 time, the fastest of the day. No horses on course at the moment as Pebbly Maximus is going to be vanned off the course. Word is that he appears to have stung his leg.

10:17 a.m. EST: Caroline Martin has had a fall from Pebbly Maximus at the Hollow at 11. Horse is up and now Caroline is too.

10:25 a.m. EST: Jordan shows off her stickability at the water over the corner and also at the third element but they’re through it and continuing on their way.

10:24 a.m. EST: Colleen and Escot 6 add just 6 time. Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato are clear through 9. Caroline Martin and Pebbly Maximus are on their way.

10:22 a.m. EST: Holly Payne opts for the option at 15 and has a runout, putting her at two so far. Colleen and Escot 6 are home clear, time pending.

10:21 a.m. EST: Jordan Linstedt and RevitaVet Capato now on course.

10:20 a.m. EST: 23 seconds over for Buck and The Apprentice, so 9.2 time penalties, no jumping. Holly and Santino have a refusal at 8, the Land Rover Ditch combination. Clear on second attempt.

10:18 a.m. EST: Holly Payne and Santino now on course. Buck sounds like he’s making child’s play of the course as the trailblazer. Colleen and Escot 6 are heading to the water. Clear through there – very clever there.

10:15 a.m. EST: Colleen Rutledge is also riding out of order with her three rides. She’s on course with Escot 6, currently in 36th. Buck and The Apprentice are clear through the tricky water at 15. Takes out the flag on the corner in the water but he’s got it done.

10:11 a.m. EST: First rider is Buck Davidson and The Apprentice. He’s in 15th place after the first two phases. Riders are going in reverse order today, but Buck will be interspersed throughout with his multiple rides. This is one of Buck’s rides aimed at Rolex.

The Fork CIC3* Cross Country Course Preview

By Jenni Autry on Apr 4, 2015 7:30 am -

Fence 15 - Rocky River Crossing

The Fork is the traditional final run before Kentucky for the vast majority of riders based in the U.S., and as a result, it’s always a tense morning on Saturday in Norwood, North Carolina. This year, course designer Tremaine Cooper has added a new loop on the far end of the CIC3* course, incorporating both a re-vamped coffin and bringing back the sunken road in quick succession to up the level of intensity in this section of the course.

That feeling of questions coming up quickly one after the other is meant to simulate what the riders prepping for Rolex will face in just three weeks’ time, and Tremaine kindly gave EN a tour of the course to show firsthand how he’s softened the beginning of the course to compensate for that new far loop. But there’s still plenty of work to do the whole way around, and this course historically shakes up the leaderboard and leaves riders with homework to do before Kentucky.

The first four fences are open, galloping jumps to help horses and riders settle into a rhythm, with the first question coming at fence 5, the Carolina Farm Credit Curve. Riders can go right or left at the corner at B, with the combination working nicely as a straight five strides on the left or a slightly bending six strides on the right. While not super technical, it’s a question that will get horses and riders on their toes for the challenges to come.

The next question comes at the coffin at fence 8, which has been branded the Land Rover Leap and sports a new look this year. Tremaine did add an option at the C element this year, and while it will certainly eat up a lot of time on the clock, it does provide a back-up plan for riders who run into trouble at the triple brush arrowhead at the direct route; there’s really not a good way to re-present to that fence following a runout.

Riders will then enter the new loop of the course, which features freshly laid turf Tremaine said he will be closely monitoring throughout the day — especially if more rain falls overnight — followed by a new gate at fence 10, which features a MIM clip, and the return of the sunken road at fence 11, the Uwharrie Bank Hollow.

Next riders will splash through the first water at fence 13, which simply features a table in the water, before jumping the same angled ditch and brush that appeared on course last year and staring down what is easily the most difficult combination on course, the second water at fence 15, the Rocky River Crossing.

This is by far causing the most chatter in the barns, and it’s easy to see why. When you stand directly in front of the big, airy log at the jump in, it doesn’t seem very doable, with a brush corner in the water sitting at a sharp turn to the right, followed by a triple brush arrowhead as the out element at C.

“It’s one of those things were you stand at A and you don’t see it — there’s no in — and then you start to walk it, and all of a sudden it opens up when you’re in the water, and I think the horses will really read it,” Tremaine said. “You need to keep planning all the way through and ride them all separately.”

If riders jump in straight over the log and wait to turn, it’s a steady five strides to the corner, followed by a straightforward three strides to the arrowhead. There is a line there, but this water is almost certainly going to cause drama tomorrow. There is a black flag option at the B element, so riders do have a backup plan if they run into trouble at the corner in the water.

Next is a gallop around the back loop of the course, which features the same tables and cheese wedge combination we usually see here, followed by the mound complex, which debuted last year and has a different look this year. Last year, riders jumped in over a hayrack, through a keyhole on the top of the mound and out over an angled brush.

This year, horses and riders will jump that angled brush as the in, followed by a sizable log on the top of the mound, with three strides taking them down the mound to a narrow, angled log. The angled log at the C element has a good ground line, as well as a small log sitting upright at the front right to encourage riders to curve their line a bit.

“It’s different in that the keyhole kept you exactly in one spot, whereas this is quite a wide log. If you’re a foot or two to the left, it will change your distance to C,” Tremaine said. “The log has a nice ground line, so even if you get in quite close, they’ll be fine. You might have to do a little bit more to work for it, though. You won’t have the same ride over this for every horse, which will make it interesting.”

From there it’s a straight shot home, with just a handful of fences standing between the riders and the finish line. With the front of the course softened this year and a new technical loop added on the far end, it’s tough to say exactly how time will shake out. The top 25 percent of the CIC3* will jump in reverse order, so it will definitely be an exciting finale here at The Fork.

Thank you to Selena O’Hanlon for sharing her photos of the course, and thank you to Tremaine for his time in giving EN an exclusive look at this year’s CIC3* course. The CIC* will tackle the course first in the morning at 8:30 a.m., followed by the CIC3* at about 10 a.m. You can follow along live with our updates here on EN and listen live on PRO Tour Radio at this link. Be sure to click here to catch up on all our coverage from The Fork.

Go Eventing.

#TheFork: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram