Classic Eventing Nation

Boyd Martin Makes the Save of the Day at Fair Hill

By on Oct 19, 2014 10:43 am -
Well sat, Boyd! Photo by Lauren Sumner.

Well sat, Boyd! Photo by Lauren Sumner.

Boyd Martin made the save of the day at the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International yesterday after somehow managing to stay on Welcome Shadow when the mare scrambled over the duck at 24a in the last water complex on the CCI2* course, launching Boyd out of the saddle and bashing the leg he broke in March into the duck’s head.

Our friends at Practical Horseman posted a view from the other side of the duck. How on earth did he manage to stay on?

Post by Practical Horseman Magazine.

And then he pulled off a save again at the ducks with Crackerjack in the CCI3. Check out this photo sent in by EN reader Erin Huffer. Holy hind end!

Photo by Lauren Edzanga.

Photo by Lauren Edzanga.

Alec Thayer has a video of the whole sequence with Welcome Shadow that he’ll be sending us shortly. In the meantime, if anyone else caught a video of the save, we’d love to see it! Send it to [email protected].

Stay tuned for much more from Fair Hill.

#FHI: Website, Live Scores, CCI2* Order of Go, YEH Scores, Schedule, Show Jumping Course Maps, EN’s Coverage, Videos,EN’s Instagram

All Horses Pass Brisk Final Horse Inspection at Fair Hill

By on Oct 19, 2014 9:15 am -
Boyd Martin and Master Frisky. Photo by Jenni Autry. Boyd Martin and Master Frisky. Photo by Jenni Autry.

It was a balmy, breezy 45 degrees for this morning’s 7:30 a.m. final horse inspection at the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International, with 76 horses presenting in the CCI2* and 39 horses presenting in the CCI3*. All horses passed the inspection, with only two being sent to the holding box in the CCI2* out of all the horses.

Wild T’Mater, ridden by Sean McIntosh, and Coolum XV, ridden by Lauren Clark, were both held, but passed upon re-presentation. Two horses were withdrawn this morning: Henry, ridden by Jennie Brannigan, in the CCI2* and Rich N Famous, ridden by Philippa Humphreys, in the CCI3*. (Update: Lizzie Snow withdrew Ringfort Tinkaturk after passing the jog.)

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda, 2nd in CCI3*. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda, 2nd in CCI3*. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Considering how tough Derek di Grazia’s courses proved to be yesterday, the horses looked very fresh on the jog strip this morning. Fernhill Flutter, the only horse to make the time in the CCI3*, hauled Kevin Keane up and down the strip and comically pinned his ears as if to tell everyone’s favorite vet to keep up.

Kevin Keane and Fernhill Flutter, 5th in the CCI3*. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kevin Keane and Fernhill Flutter, 5th in the CCI3*. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Though the morning proved to be very chilly, we at least had dry weather, so many riders were able to debut the outfits they had hoped to wear Wednesday when downpours plagued the first horse inspection. EN’s own Maggie Deatrick, sitting in 11th in the CCI2* with Divine Comedy, looked very sharp in her fitted black blazer with white trim, and Jennie Brannigan rocked grellow skinny jeans in the CCI3*.

Maggie Deatrick and Divine Comedy, sitting 11th in the CCI2*. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Maggie Deatrick and Divine Comedy, 11th in the CCI2*. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The chinchillas also approved of Julie Richards’ fabulous cowboy boots, which she sported when jogging Urlanmore Beauty, who is sitting in second place in the CCI2* overnight. We saw lots of boots, coats and scarves this morning as a result of the chilly temperatures, and I think I speak for all of us when I say I hope the wind dies down and the sun comes out from behind the clouds.

Julie Richards and Urlanmore Beauty. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Julie Richards and Urlanmore Beauty, 2nd in CCI2*. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The CCI2* riders are walking their course now, which is designed by Sally Ike. CCI2* show jumping starts at 10 a.m., with the entire division jumping in reverse order. Their awards will be at 12:30 p.m., followed by a 1 p.m. press conference. The $3,000 PRO Bareback Gambler’s Choice is also at 1 p.m.

Then the CCI3* show jumping starts at 2 p.m., with the division also jumping in reverse order. Awards will be at 3:30 p.m., with a 4 p.m. press conference following. Click here to see the show jumping course maps. Be sure to follow along with us on Twitter and keep checking back for much more from Fair Hill.

#FHI: Website, Live Scores, CCI2* Show Jumping Order of Go, Schedule, Show Jumping Couse Maps, EN’s Coverage, Videos, EN’s Instagram, @eventingnation

Sunday Links from ERS-Eventing.com

By on Oct 19, 2014 12:01 am -
Today's gonna be a good day. Today's gonna be a good day.

Hey there EN, what’s shakin’? I don’t know about you, but my last couple of weeks have been filled with crazy ups and downs. I got a promotion at my office job, which is totally awesome. This means way more money for events and horsey things I totally (don’t) need! On the downside this means that my show-season is pretty much done. Bummer. I really wanted to push for one more qualifying ride for the N3D at Rebecca but I can still go raise hell at some local one-day jumper shows. Which is exactly what I’m off to do today! There’s no reason today can’t be a great day. Lets choose to go and make it one.

North American Events:

Fair Hill International CCI  [Website] [Ride Times] [Schedule] [EN’s Coverage] [EN’s Instagram] [@eventingnation] [Live Scores] [YEH Live Scores]

The Event at Kelly’s Ford H.T. [Website] [Live Scores]

Paradise Farm H.T. [Website] [Ride Times]

Fresno County Horse Park H.T. [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event & Team Challenge CCI & H.T.  [Website] [Ride Times]

Grass Ridge H.T. [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Global FEI Events:

Goulburn NSW (AUS) CCI1/2/3*, CIC1/2/3* [Website]

Le Lion d’Angers (FRA) CCI1/2* [Website] [6-Year-Old Scores] [7-Year-Old Scores]

Sunday Links:

Editorial: Helmet safety law can prevent tragedy

These hilarious horse halloween costumes are the craziest things ever

Study: Horses can communicate blanketing preferences

Facebook readers save horse from lion’s den

Artist Simon Ma is a horse girl’s best friend

Betty Osborne and Sammie join the Century Club

Sunday Video: What’s the century club? It’s for horses and riders who’s combined age totals 100.

Fair Hill Leaders Talk Riding the Highs and Lows

By on Oct 18, 2014 8:00 pm -
Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda at FHI 2014. Photo by Jenni Autry. Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda at FHI 2014. Photo by Jenni Autry.

With the dust settled at the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International, the top three in the CCI3* and CCI2* gathered for a press conference to share their thoughts on a cross country day that certainly took no prisoners.

Boyd Martin, who holds the overnight lead in the CCI3* with Master Frisky, thought this year’s course was particularly tough — maybe even too tough — saying “it makes Boekelo look like a two-star.”

“It’s the most prestigious three day event in America. I would hold winning this event as important as anything else I’ve accomplished,” Boyd said. “From the rider’s point of view, this is the Hawaiian Ironman. That’s why great horses and great riders come here and go on to do wonderful things later in their careers.”

But he’ll likely need to leave all the rails in the cups tomorrow to win, as second-placed Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda are notoriously strong in show jumping. Unfortunately, it’s not Master Frisky’s best phase.

“When I was in France (for WEG), Michael Walton came over and jumped him for me and gave me a couple pointers with him,” Boyd said. “He’s a got a good jump; he jumps really big behind and sometimes jumps over himself. We’ll just do the best we can.”

Redemption proved sweet for Jennie today, as she conquered the double corner combination that caught out Cambalda last year to put herself less than a rail out of the lead. “It was nice to feel like I pulled the trigger on the day,” she said.

Jennie has been very stoic about the struggles she and Cambalda have faced in the past year. After Fair Hill and her technical elimination Rolex, she said in an emotional moment during yesterday’s press conference that she felt like she’d been “kicked in the teeth” after those events.

She’s been exercising racehorses for Michael Matz at Fair Hill’s training track — as well as galloping Cambalda and Henry on the track as part of their fitness regime — and she said her track family and routine have ultimately proved to be her saving grace.

“It’s hard when you’re up and coming and you’re supposed to be a star and you let everyone down, and you beat yourself up, and it’s been this thing to make me realize I just love horses. I love riding good horses,” Jennie said.

Caitlin Silliman also came into cross country day with demons to conquer, as she fell from Remington XXV last year in the two-star and has battled runouts with Catch A Star this year. So when it came to how she prepared mentally, she said she simply knew what she needed to do.

“She’s a very good cross country horse. If I ride her well, she goes well. If you give her confidence in the first five fences, she builds the whole way around,” Caitlin said, and that’s what happened today, with “Hoku” skipping around to move them from 15th up to third.

Though Boyd made it clear winning Fair Hill would mean a lot to him, you can’t help but get the impression he wouldn’t mind seeing a blue ribbon pinned to Cambalda or Catch A Star’s bridle tomorrow.

“It’s a very heartbreaking sport, this sport,” Boyd said. “These girls have had so many reasons to wander off and quit. They’ve worked very, very hard and gone beyond what normal people would do to get here.”

Victoria Jessop, who leads the Fair Hill CCI2*, has had an equally long road to get here with Desert Mystery, an off-track Thoroughbred who raced over fences and came to her as a 3 year old.

“We have a great partnership now, but it took a long time because he needed it mentally, but it was a real reward to put it all together,” she said. “He gave me a great ride. Cross country is his forte; he loves it.”

Show jumping is not the horse’s strong phase, as he’s not the most careful jumper, Victoria said. “We’re working on it, but it would definitely be our crux. It’s getting better, and we’ll give it out best shot. I’m riding the wave right now and enjoying it.”

Julie Richards is also enjoying the ride with Urlanmore Beauty, who did Young Riders with Sarah Kamensky in 2011 and has since been sold to Asa Cooper. When Asa decided to focus on college, the horse went to Julie to compete.

She only started riding him in July, and when he finished cross country at the American Eventing Championships with 5 time penalties on a 6 1/2-minute course, Julie knew she needed to step up her fitness game. The hard work paid off with a double clear today to put her in second place in the two-star.

“He’s Irish, and that’s why I lot of us like to ride those horses, because they just keep galloping,” Julie said. “That’s why I drove 17 hours to get here. You never know when they’re going to step up, and I’m thrilled he did.”

Cooley Cross Border also stepped up today with Kim Severson in his first CCI2* to jump double clear to move to third place, which is particularly noticeable since he’s battled blips on cross country this season.

“I just had to get it right today. That was pretty much my thing,” Kim said. “He is usually very straightforward, but I’ve made some mistakes that was just me not riding well, so I needed to ride well, and I did that, and he was very good.”

The final horse inspection starts bright and early at 7:30 a.m. tomorrow, so be sure to tune back in first thing in the morning for live tweets during the jog. There’s still much more to come from Fair Hill. Thanks for following along today.

[Boyd Martin and Master Frisky Hold Fair Hill CCI3* Lead]

[Fair Hill CCI3* Live Cross Country Updates: Boyd Martin Holds Lead]

[Victoria Jessop and Desert Mystery Take Fair Hill CCI2* Lead]

[Fair Hill CCI2* Live Cross County Updates: Victoria Jessop Leads]

#FHI: Website, Ride Times, Live Scores, YEH Scores, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, Videos, EN’s Instagram, @eventingnation, PRO Live Stream, CCI2* Course Preview, CCI3* Course Preview

Grit, Determination and a Little Luck: Cross Country Day at Fair Hill

By on Oct 18, 2014 7:37 pm -
Kelly Prather and True Wiley. Photo via Nupafeed FB.

Kelly Prather and True Wiley. Photo via Nupafeed FB.

As is somewhat standard at Fair Hill, today encompassed all of the possible human emotions. From sun-up this morning, there have been horses and riders experiencing everything from elation and adoration to positively gut wrenching disappointment. There are stories of triumph, and tales of woe, and just about everything in between.

Something must be seriously wrong with us, as we keep coming back to this sport, but cross country day is what defines us, and the high is so great that we continually return even after days when we’ve been kicked in the pants. Let’s check out some of the stories from today.

#FHI: Website, Ride Times, Live Scores, YEH Scores, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, Videos, EN’s Instagram, @eventingnation

Tamie Smith had a helluva ride today on Twizted Syster, cracking around that CCI2* course like nobody’s business. From Tamie: “A year ago when Chloe came to my barn to be sold, it never occurred to me that she would one day be mine. I’m so grateful to Heather, Mike, and the Team Express Group for making it possible to be the one riding her and also so appreciative in my team that made it possible for me to acquire her and is now owned by The Twizted Systers.

“Thank you to all of you who support me and my dream and have always been there through all of the ups and downs of this crazy sport we love. Chloe truly is a horse I want to be sitting on for cross country and I’m so proud of how well she handled a tough course today! Thank you to everyone for making today possible. Now to rest up for a very big day tomorrow.”

Heather Morris and Tamie Smith sharing some serious love after cross country. Photo via Tamie Smith's FB.

Heather Morris and Tamie Smith sharing some serious love after cross country. Photo via Tamie Smith’s FB.

Heather Morris passing some love to Twizted Syster while she hangs out in her ice boots. Photo via Heather Morris' FB.

Heather Morris passing some love to Twizted Syster while she hangs out in her ice boots. Photo via Heather Morris’ FB.

You know what, teamwork DOES make the dream work. You’re right, Leslie! Here’s to Jon Holling, who has TWO horses in the top 10 after cross country in the CCI3* — a badass achievement!

It was all smiles at the finish line for these girls today, with current CCI2* leader Victoria Jessop riding Desert Mystery in a flawless fashion to finish with no jumping or time penalties at all. Coach 2013 CCI3* champion Jan Byyny was there to give her a big hug at the end!

Photo via AE Wagner's FB.

Photo via AE Wagner’s FB.

My question is … who took out the clump of brush from the top of the keyhole with their noggin? Who was jumping that high? Don’t you know you’re supposed to duck going through a big old brush keyhole? Also, congrats to Liz Riley and Tom for finishing their first CCI3* together, with clear jumping and 30 time penalties; they sit in 35th place for tomorrow.

Jennie Brannigan and Ping KILLED IT today, slaying all their bad luck demons for cross country and moving nicely into second place with only 1.2 time penalties.

From Jennie: “I have so many people to thank, and I know I’ll miss many so thank you to everyone who has stood behind me on this roller coaster … I’m just beyond proud and relived to have two such class athletes to ride. Cambalda finally had his day and Henry was unreal … I look forward to the future but to my friends who have been there through the ups and downs … Thank you. I wouldn’t be anywhere without you.”

Ellie MacPhail and RF Eloquence jumped around their first CCI3* together, adding only 13.2 time penalties. From Ellie: “Pony genius lived up to his name!! I love this horse! Clear around our first CCI3* and in 12th heading into show jumping tomorrow!!”

Photo via Ellie MacPhail's FB.

Photo via Ellie MacPhail’s FB.

Hallie Coon also joined the ranks of newly minted CCI3* riders today, as she and Namaste’ (aka, Yogi) took on the Fair Hill challenge and rose to the occasion, finishing with 29.2 time penalties for 32nd place going into show jumping.

Photo via Hallie Coon's FB.

Photo via Hallie Coon’s FB.

Matt Brown suffered disappointment in the CCI2* when leader after dressage Happenstance had a run out, but he kicked himself into gear to ride Super Socks BCF to a clear round in his first CCI3*. They finished with 23.6 time penalties and go into 22nd place before show jumping.

Photo via Fair Hill International FB.

Photo via Fair Hill International FB.

You ever see this guy out on cross country? He’s almost always wearing hunter green and is definitely accompanied by one or two black labs at all times. I hear that he does some sort of Rolex preview article every year? Not sure …

Photo via USEF High Performance FB.

Photo via USEF High Performance FB.

Kendal Lehari and Totally Frank were having an awesome round in the CCI3* until she pulled him up late in the course between fences 21 and 22. She reports that he just felt a little off, and that they are both happy and resting now. We are all crossing our fingers for a good diagnosis for Frank!

Kendal

Defending CCI2* champion Allie Sacksen has good reason for the smile on her face, as she and Sparrow’s Nio finished their first CCI3* with no jumping penalties and just 10.4 time. That puts them in 19th place before show jumping.

Photo via Fair Hill International FB.

Photo via Fair Hill International FB.

Everyone’s favorite little chestnut pony mare cruised around her first CCI2* with 17.6 time, which puts her in 45th place in that division.

Look at that face! Cooley Cross Border jumped his heart out today and galloped more than he’s ever galloped! He and Kim Severson finished the CCI2* course with a double clear round and have slotted nicely into third place for tomorrow.

Photo via Kim Severson Eventing FB.

Photo via Kim Severson Eventing FB.

Boyd Martin and Master Frisky Hold Fair Hill CCI3* Lead

By on Oct 18, 2014 5:45 pm -
Boyd Martin and Master Frisky

Boyd Martin and Master Frisky. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Buck Davidson and Petite Flower had a chance to take the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International CCI3* lead as one of the final pairs to go, but trouble late on course took them out of the running, with Boyd Martin and Master Frisky’s clear round and 2 time penalties proving enough to hold onto their lead on a score of 45.4.

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda came into Fair Hill looking to settle unfinished business after falling victim to the double corners in the Dutta Farm Yard last year. The look on her face as she conquered that combination today sums up the entire way she rode the course — forward and aggressive, which is exactly the type of riding Derek di Grazia’s track rewarded. The clear trip and 1.2 time moved them from fourth up to second on 48.2.

Caitlin Silliman and Catch A Star also set out of the start box with something to prove, as they’ve had their fair share of struggles on cross country this year. But you wouldn’t have known it today as they made quick work of the course, jumping clear with just .8 time penalties to move from 15th place all the way up to third.

Though Buck ran into trouble with Petite Flower, he’s enjoying a spot in the top five on The Apprentice, who jumped clear as the second horse out with 8.4 time to drop from second to fourth place on 52.4. And Kevin Keane and Fernhill Flutter were the only combination to make the time all day, with their double clear shooting them up the leaderboard from 19th to fifth place on 52.8.

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Allison Springer and Copycat Chloe showed their partnership is continuing to develop in the right direction, putting in a cracking round with just .4 time to move from 22nd to sixth place on 54.8. Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace put in a dominant round, jumping clear with 2 time to rise from 24th to seventh.

Jon Holling had a fantastic day, sitting inside the top 10 with both Zatopek B and Proper Timing, jumping clear and picking up 6.8 and 10 time, respectively, to sit in eighth and ninth places. And Holly Payne and Never OutFoxed win the Biggest Mover Award, with their clear round and .4 time moving them from 42nd all the way up to 10th.

Thirty-one pairs in all jumped clear, with just Kevin and Fernhill Flutter making the optimum time of 10 minutes. Kendal Lehari pulled up Totally Frank between fences 21 and 22 when it seemed like the horse suddenly went sore. Katy Groesbeck retired Oz the Tin Man after a refusal at fence 5. Will Coleman retired OBOS O’Reilly about halfway around the course, and Buck retired Petite Flower after two refusals at fence 21.

Lizzie Snow called it a day with Coal Creek after he slipped into the ditch under the angled brush at 15a, which was later removed from the course because the footing was deteriorating early in the order of go. That combination caused a number of problems, with Werner Geven falling from Vilas County there prior to 15a being removed from the course.

Caitlin Silliman and Catch A Star. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Caitlin Silliman and Catch A Star. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Mackenna Shea and Landioso and Avery Klunick and In It To Win It parted ways at 15b after 15a had been removed from the course. Holly Payne fell from Santino at the first fence, Maya Black fell from Doesn’t Play Fair at the Chesapeake Water, and Cody Sturgess fell from Imperial Melody at the Sneaky Snake. Cody was reportedly taken to a local hospital with an ankle injury, and we have not yet received word on his condition.

Kyle Carter and Conaghy’s Courage received a technical elimination after he missed fence 13 and jumped fence 14. Jimmie Schramm and Bellamy were unfortunately eliminated after a drive by the B element at the first water and two more at fence 6, the Haunted Hill. Lauren Ferguson withdrew Mainway’s Dry Ice before cross country started.

That’s a wrap on cross country day at Fair Hill. Stay tuned for the full press conference report with comments from the top three in both the CCI3* and CCI2* — click here for the CCI2* report if you missed it — as well as more photos and video. And you can relive all the action with our live updates. Go Eventing.

#FHI: Website, Ride Times, Live Scores, YEH Scores, Schedule,EN’s Coverage, Videos, EN’s Instagram, @eventingnation, PRO Live Stream, CCI2* Course Preview, CCI3* Course Preview

Screen Shot 2014-10-18 at 5.00.01 PM

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

By on Oct 18, 2014 3:35 pm -
While falling leaves may look pretty, a pasture is definitely not the best place for them to land. Photo used under Creative Commons License. While falling leaves may look pretty, a pasture is definitely not the best place for them to land. Photo used under Creative Commons License.

I love observing the leaves changing color this time of year – though after a brief, albeit brilliant, showing of colors, the leaves all finally fall to the ground. I’m pretty laid back about having leaves sit in my yard (what, it’s recycling at it’s finest – simply run them over with a mower, and you’ve just mulched your yard). But I take leaves dropping into my pasture very seriously.

While colorful leaves scattered around a pasture might look like the fit right in with the season, I cringe when I see them. Because with the growth of the grass slowing down, ingesting fallen leaves can seem like a great idea to horses. And while equines may want to chow down on some colorful leaves, unfortunately it can lead to them compacting in their digestive system, possibly leading to colic.

A recent article over on EquiMed provides a list of suggestions to help horse owners to take steps to make their Fall pastures safe for their horses. By taking preventative steps, such as removing leaves and poisonous plants, pastures can be made safer. Which can help your horse to have a healthy autumn season. Head over to check out the article here.

And also make sure to check out some of the other highlights from this week in horse health news:

Noncribbing Cribbers have High Cortisol Levels – A recent study conducted by a team of Swiss researchers supports the claim that horses that crib should be allowed to crib. Tests show that cribbers who opted not to crib during observation had high levels of stress. [The Horse]

Effectiveness of Grazing Muzzles Studied in US – A research team from the University of Minnesota has found that the use of grazing muzzles can help reduce the grass intake of horses by an average of 30%. The observations were made during a four-hour period, and there has been no noticeable impact caused by the type of grass a horse is grazing on. [HorseTalk]

Safe Horse Handling for Vet Techs – Have you noticed that even the most quiet horses have a bad day now and again? A recent article on The Horse gives some pointers on how vet techs can handle horses to ensure successful and SAFE vet visits for all parties involved. [The Horse]

Drug Testing System Has Serious Flaws (for the Thoroughbred Industry) – According to research conducted by The Jockey Club, the current ‘state-by-state’ approach to drug testing standards has been problematic. While a number of states have embraced the National Uniform Medication Program, the uniformity does not carry over into testing, due to the contracts that states have with independent testing facilities. [Blood-Horse]

Mycotoxin Feed Contamination Appears to be on the Rise – According to specialist Professor Trevor Smith (of the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada), it appears that the frequency of mycotoxin contamination in feeds is trending upwards. Mycotoxins are produced from molds, and when ingested by horses, have the potential to cause liver damage or cancer. [HorseTalk]

In case you missed it, also check out the recent review of Absorbine’s Fungasol system of products–which can help combat equine skin funk in wet and muddy Fall conditions!

Fair Hill CCI3* Live Cross Country Updates: Boyd Martin Holds Lead

By on Oct 18, 2014 1:45 pm -
Photo via EN Archives Photo via EN Archives

After an exciting day for the CCI2* riders, it’s now time for the headline event of the day: the CCI3* cross country. Catch up on the preview of Derek di Grazia’s course here, and don’t forget to refresh this page for up to date action. You can also listen to the live broadcast stream from PRO here. Optimum time is 10:00.

#FHI: Website, Ride Times, Live Scores, YEH Scores, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, Videos, EN’s Instagram, @eventingnation, CCI3* Course Preview

4:59 p.m. EST: Boyd finishes with 24.4 time. That’s a wrap on the cross country from Fair Hill! Stay tuned for a full report. In the meantime, here is your top 10:

Screenshot_43

4:58 p.m. EST:

Screenshot_42

4;57 p.m. EST: Boyd Martin nearly to the end, coming to 21 and 22 now.

4:55 p.m. EST:

4:53 p.m. EST: Boyd clear through 15. Amanda Wilson is over 22.

4:52 p.m. EST:

4:51 p.m. EST: Great news!

4:51 p.m. EST:

4:50 p.m. EST:

Screenshot_41

4:49 p.m. EST: Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF came home clear with 23.6 time. A great showing for this pair’s first CCI3*.

4:48 p.m. EST: Boyd and Pancho Villa are the last on course now. Amanda Wilson and Cool Decision are clear through 10.

4:47 p.m. EST: Buck Davidson and Petite Flower have a runout at fence 21, meaning Boyd Martin will take his lead into tomorrow. Buck’s now had a second runout and has retired.

fence 21 plush brush

4:46 p.m. EST:

4:43 p.m. EST: Great shot, Karissa!

4:42 p.m. EST: Philippa Humphreys and Sir Donovan are away. Just two more after them to go.

4:41 p.m. EST:

Screenshot_40

4:39 p.m. EST: Buck Davidson and Petite Flower are on course now to challenge the lead.

4:37 p.m. EST:

4:36 p.m. EST: Jon Holling and Zatopek B take out a flag at the first water but are through.

4:35 p.m. EST: #starstruck

Screenshot_39

4:34 p.m. EST:

4:33 p.m. EST: Matt and Super Socks are off. Colleen Rutledge clear through the Farm Yard at 17. Sara Murphy through 11.

4:30 p.m. EST: Kurt Martin and Anna Bella looking a bit tired as they turn for home, just three more to jump for these two who have had a great run. 21.2 time for this pair for a 69.8.

4:29 p.m. EST: Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Fly Me Courageous are off and running. West coast pair Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF will be the next to count down.

4:27 p.m. EST: Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace finish clear with just two time penalties.

4:27 p.m. EST: Morven Park winners Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights are on course and through 5.

4:25 p.m. EST: Katy Groesebeck had a refusal at the first water, fence 5, and has retired.

4:23 p.m. EST: A glance at the scores reveals that Boyd’s lead is not safe just yet. Petite Flower is currently on a 44.8, so a fast round could challenge Boyd for that lead.

4:21 p.m. EST:

4:19 p.m. EST: Libby Head and Sir Rockstar finish with 6.8 time for score of 67.8. Another strong run for this scrappy pair.

4:17 p.m. EST: Ellie MacPhail and RF Eloquence are on course, and Caroline Martin and Quantum Solace are next out of the box.

4:14 p.m. EST: Ashley Leith and Tactical Maneuver are clear through 23, Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming are clear through 6, Libby and Rocky are through 18 and 19.

4:13 p.m. EST: Liz Riley and It’s The Truth get big cheers after completing the final water complex.

4:11 p.m. EST: Boyd Martin and Master Frisky will hold their lead overnight after coming home with two time. They’ll finish on a two-day score of 45.4.

4:10 p.m. EST:

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4:09 p.m. EST: Libby Head and Sir Rockstar are on course now. 13 more to go in the CCI3*.

4:07 p.m. EST: Boyd and Master Frisky are going strong through 18 and 19.

4:05 p.m. EST: 63.2 for Holly Payne and Never OutFoxed as they come home just one second over the optimum.

4:01 p.m. EST: Sally Cousins and Tsunami are home clear with the second double clear of the day! CORRECTION: Sally had 6 time penalties for a two day score of 68.6.

3:59 p.m. EST: Leaders Boyd Martin and Master Frisky are on course.

3:59 p.m. EST: Missed this pair earlier – Rachel McDonough and Irish Rhythm came home clear with 20 time.

3:58 p.m. EST: Hallie Coon and Namaste are the next on course.

3:54 p.m. EST: Sally Cousins and Tsunami are clear through 11.

3:54 p.m. EST: Holly Payne and her second ride, Never Outfoxed, are on course and clear through the first few.

3:52 p.m. EST: Emily Rusinyak picked up another refusal at the Farm Yard, fence 17, with Reatta HW.

3:49 p.m. EST: Jimmie and Bellamy are walking home from fence 6 after two stops, their third on course. Big bummer for this pair.

Fence 6, Haunted Hill. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

Fence 6, Haunted Hill. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

3:48 p.m. EST: Jimmie Schramm and Bellamy have a runout at the first water (fence 5) after a big jump in. Clear on their next attempt.

3:46 p.m. EST: Emily Rusinyak and Reatta HW have a refusal at the first water at 5, clear on second attempt.

3:46 p.m. EST: Avery Klunick and In It to Win It had two refusals at fence 15 and a fall on the third attempt. Both are up and ok.

3:45 p.m. EST:

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3:44 p.m. EST: Avery Klunick and In It to Win It are looking strong towards the back end of the course.

3:43 p.m. EST: Werner Geven has a runout at fence 19 with Vandiver.

Fence 19, Sunken Road. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

Fence 19, Sunken Road. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

3:42 p.m. EST: We love this photo of Allie Sacksen and Sparrow’s Nio! Thanks Katherine!

3:41 p.m. EST: Nelson Moreira da Silva and Muggle picked up a 20 at fence 25.

fence 25 charm cabin

3:36 p.m. EST:

3:34 p.m. EST: Allie finishes with 10.4 time for a total of 70.6.

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3:32 p.m. EST: Caitlin Silliman go into second provisionally after coming home just 2 seconds over time.

3:28 p.m. EST: Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair have a heartbreaking fall at fence 10. They’re both up and ok.

Fence 10, Chesapeake Water. Photo by Andrea Collins, FHI.

Fence 10, Chesapeake Water. Photo by Andrea Collins, FHI.

3:27 p.m. EST: Allie Sacksen and Sparrow’s Nio are tearing the course up! They’ve got just a couple left to jump.

3:24 p.m. EST: Maya Black and Doesn’t Play Fair, fresh off their win at Plantation Field, are on course.

3:22 p.m. EST: Kyle Carter missed fence 13 and went straight to fence 14 with Conahy’s Courage, so unfortunately their day is finished.

Fence 13, Picnic Table. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

Fence 13, Picnic Table. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

3:19 p.m. EST: Mackenna Shea has fallen from Landioso at fence 15, she’s up and ok.

3:18 p.m. EST: 2013 CCI2* winners Allie Sacksen and Sparrow’s Nio are on course.

3:16 p.m. EST: Kyle Carter has a runout with Conahy’s Courage at fence 5, the first water.

Fence 5, Frog Pond. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

Fence 5, Frog Pond. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

3:15 p.m. EST: Kendal Lehari pulls up Totally Frank between 21 and 22, Brian says the horse appears to have come up a bit sore. Currently being checked out by vets.

3:13 p.m. EST: Emily Beshear and Shame On the Moon miss the last element of the coffin, clear on second attempt.

3:11 p.m. EST: Allison and Chloe get their groove back, coming home just one second over time to finish on a 54.8.

3:10 p.m. EST:

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3:08 p.m. EST: Allison Springer and Copycat Chloe are having a great run so far. Only a few left to jump. Emily Beshear and Shame On the Moon are on course.

3:04 p.m. EST: Kevin Keane and Fernhill Flutter are the first double clear of the day! “Who says vets can’t go fast?” Brian asks over the PA.

3:03 p.m. EST: Holly Payne has fallen from Santino at the very first fence. Both are ok, but what a heartbreaker!

3:02 p.m. EST: Crowd favorite Kevin Keane and Fernhill Flutter are almost home, getting lots of cheers on their way.

3:01 p.m. EST: Leah is home with 13.6 time to move from 45th to 6th for now. Well done, Leah!

2:58 p.m. EST: Leah Lang Gluscic is through the final water and turning for home.

2:54 p.m. EST: Back underway now. Kevin Keane and Fernhill Flutter have been given the green light to begin.

2:51 p.m. EST: We’ve received word that Cody injured his ankle, and will go in for x-rays.

2:50 p.m. EST: Three minutes out from restart. Cody Sturgess’ condition is unknown, but we do know he is being transported to the hospital for further evaluation.

2:46 p.m. EST:

2:45 p.m. EST:

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2:44 p.m. EST: 1.2 time for Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda, so they’ll take the lead on 48.2. We’re still on a hold. Cody Sturgess is still being attended to, Imperial Melody has been caught and is on his way back to the barn.

2:42 p.m. EST:

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2:39 p.m. EST: Fence 15A has been removed from the course. 15B will remain. It appears that the footing was still deteriorating even after more gravel was put down. 15A is where Werner Geven had his fall.

Fence 15, Persimmon Tree Turn. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

Fence 15, Persimmon Tree Turn. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

2:37 p.m. EST: Cody Sturgess and Imperial Melody have a fall at the Sneaky Snake, fence 11. Leah Lang-Gluscic will be held, as Cody is still down and Imperial Melody is loose.

Fence 11, Sneaky Snake. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

Fence 11, Sneaky Snake. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

2:36 p.m. EST: Werner Geven and Vilas County have a fall at 15, but both were on their feet quickly.

2:35 p.m. EST:

2:34 p.m. EST: Jennie Brannigan is clear through 21.

2:34 p.m. EST:

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2:31 p.m. EST:

2:29 p.m. EST: Be sure to check our By the Numbers post for predictions on the CCI3*.

2:27 p.m. EST: Back underway with Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda.

2:26 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and Lucky Devil are home with 18 time for a 74.2. We’re back underway.

2:21 p.m. EST: Course is clear, Will Coleman and Obos O’Reilly have retired. Still on a hold for the footing repair.

2:20 p.m. EST: A quick hold at fence 15 due to a footing issue – no issues with falls. Additional footing being put down.

2:20 p.m. EST: Lauren Kieffer and the talented Lucky Devil are three from home.

2:18 p.m. EST:

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2:17 p.m. EST: Tim Bourke and Luckaun Quality are the fastest so far with 4 time penalties.

2:16 p.m. EST: Eliza Farren and Bantry Bays Dublin have a refusal on course, missed the announcement on which fence.

2:15 p.m. EST:

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2:13 p.m. EST: Tim Bourke and Luckaun Quality are coming for home after a strong run. His first three-star was a year ago at this very event.

2:08 p.m. EST: Lizzie picks up a stop at fence 15 and has retired.

Fence 15, Persimmon Tree Turn. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

Fence 15, Persimmon Tree Turn. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

2:08 p.m. EST: Eliza Farren and Bantry Bays Dublin on course now.

2:07 p.m. EST: Jon Holling and Proper Timing come home 25 seconds over to finish on a 60.4.

2:05 p.m. EST: Tim Bourke and Luckaun Quality are sent on their way.

2:04 p.m. EST: Buck Davidson finishes on a 52.4 with a few time on The Apprentice.

2:03 p.m. EST: Lizzie and Coal Creek have a stop at fence 6.

Fence 6, Haunted Hill. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

Fence 6, Haunted Hill. Photo by Andrea Collins/FHI.

2:01 p.m. EST: Lizzie Snow and Coal Creek are out of the start box.

2:01 p.m. EST:

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2:00 p.m. EST: Philippa Humphreys and Rich N Famous on course.

2:00 p.m. EST: Buck Davidson and The Apprentice are clear through the Farm Yard, fence 17 in the main arena.

1:57 p.m. EST: Fence 17 in the main arena

fence 17 farm yard

1:57 p.m. EST: Boyd and Steady Eddie pick up two refusals at 17 in the main arena.

1:56 p.m. EST: Jon Holling and Proper Timing on course now.

1:53 p.m. EST: Buck Davidson and The Apprentice are on course. Boyd is clear through 12.

1:48 p.m. EST: And we’re underway with Boyd, who’s clear through the first three.

1:46 p.m. EST: Boyd Martin will be the first out for the CCI3* with Steady Eddie in just a few moments’ time.

Victoria Jessop and Desert Mystery Take Fair Hill CCI2* Lead

By on Oct 18, 2014 1:30 pm -
Victoria Jessop and Desert Mystery

Victoria Jessop and Desert Mystery. Photo by Jenni Autry.

It was a good day to be sitting on a Thoroughbred, with Victoria Jessop and Desert Mystery jumping one of 15 double clear rounds to take the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International CCI2* lead on 41.3. Victoria and “Dez,” an 11-year-old OTTB gelding (Mojave Moon X Maternity Leave, by Northern Baby) she owns, have been partnered together since 2007 since the horse came off the track, working their way through the levels together.

Victoria and Dez were third at the Jersey Fresh CCI2* in the spring and won the Richland Park CIC2*, setting them up for a go at Fair Hill this weekend. We profiled their road to Fair Hill last month in this post, so you can read more about them while waiting to hear more about their day in this afternoon’s press conference, which will be held after cross country.

Julie Richards and Urlanmore Beauty, an 11-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Asa Cooper, moved up from a tie for fourth to take second place on 43.0 after jumping double clear. This horse only just moved up to the Intermediate level in July, doing his first CIC2* at Chatt Hills in August to qualify for Fair Hill, making their performance today all the more impressive.

Julie Richards and Urlanmore Beauty. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Julie Richards and Urlanmore Beauty. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Kim Severson and Cooley Cross Border moved up from sixth to third with a double clear to sit on 43.6. This clear has to be especially sweet for Kim, as Cross, a 7-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by The Cross Syndicate, have had a few blips on cross country at the two-star level this season. But the horse looked locked on today — redemption is sweet!

Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster put in a textbook double clear to move from ninth to fourth place on 44.7. As “Chloe,” an 8-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare owned by the Twizted Systers Syndicate, has mostly competed in Texas and California, Tamie said she wasn’t sure how the mare would handle the hills. But the terrain didn’t seem to bother her at all today as she ate up the track.

Boyd Martin and SBF Cortez moved up from seventh to fifth place with a clear trip and 2.4 penalties to sit on a score of 46.2, a very solid performance for the horse’s first attempt at the CCI2* level. Boyd still has four more riders to come today, as he’s piloting four CCI3* first-timers around cross country later this afternoon. Godspeed, Boyd.

Marilyn Little nearly pulled off a double clear with RF Quarterman, coming in just one second over the optimum time of 8 minutes, 22 seconds to move up from 13th place to sixth on 46.6. Lynn Symansky and Osborne 9 slipped a few spots down the leaderboard from third to seventh with 5.6 time penalties for a score of 47.4.

Waylon Roberts and Kelecyn Cognac, who only just made it off the wait list when the ground jury kindly let them jog yesterday morning and squeezed them into the order of go, made it count, smoking the clock with the fastest time of the day at 8 minutes to move from 18th to eighth on 45.8.

Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Buck Davidson and Quasar moved from equal 19th to eighth on 49 with a double clear, with Kelly Prather and Truly Wiley also enjoying a healthy move up the leaderboard from 21st to ninth on 49.3. And we’re bursting with pride for our very own Maggie Deatrick, who jumped double clear with her own Divine Comedy to move from 37th to 11th on 52.2.

Phillip Dutton pulled off two double clears aboard I’m Sew Ready and and Get Ready riding for Kristen Bond, who is expecting her first child. Buck Davidson also jumped a second double clear round about Be Mine. Ryan Wood had a good day, jumping double clear with Fernhill Classic and jumping clear with just 2.8 time with McLovin.

Double clears definitely made the difference on the leaderboard today. In addition to those already mentioned, the following combinations also jumped clear inside the time: Rachel Wilks and River King, Andrew McConnon and Ziggy, and Will Coleman and Soupçon du Brunet — who moved from 86th all the way up to 32nd to win the Biggest Mover Award.

Though 52 combinations in all jumped clear, about half the field, Derek di Grazia’s track certainly took its toll. Overnight leader Matt Brown and Happenstance picked up 20 penalties at 7c, the corner coming out of the first water complex, to end their fairytale run. Twenty-two riders in all picked up jumping penalties, with 10 being eliminated and nine retiring.

The only injury on course came when Victoria Long parted ways from all that Jazz at the angled brush at 11b. She was up right away, though holding onto her arm. After being examined by the medics, she was taken to a local hospital for observation and to X-ray her arm. We’ll update you on her condition when we know more.

Be sure to check Sally’s live updates thread here for detailed information on what exactly went down in the CCI2*. CCI3* cross country is about to get underway now, so be sure to follow along with Sally’s live updates and Twitter to stay up to date. And keep checking back for more more from Fair Hill.

#FHI: Website, Ride Times, Live Scores, YEH Scores, Schedule, EN’s Coverage, Videos, EN’s Instagram, @eventingnation, PRO Live Stream, CCI2* Course Preview, CCI3* Course Preview

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Michael Jung, Thomas Carlile Atop Mondial du Lion After Cross Country

By on Oct 18, 2014 11:08 am -
How cool of a jump is this? Photo via Arnaud Wajdzik on Twitter. How cool of a jump is this? Photo via Arnaud Wajdzik on Twitter.

Cross country has just completed for the six and seven-year old divisions at Mondial du Lion, and the leaderboards have shifted going into tomorrow’s show jumping.

In the six-year-old CCI*, Michael Jung has taken command aboard Star Connection, who was in second following dressage. As we reported yesterday, this horse has quite an impressive record already, and it should come as no surprise that he’s taken the lead in this young horse championship.

Chris Burton and Dutch Man Retto moved up from third to second with a double clear round. Overnight leaders Vincent Martens and Eiskönig elected to retire on course after two refusals towards the end.

Canada’s Lindsay Traisnel and Ulysse de Rubercy had a great day on cross country, finishing with a double clear round to move from 10th to 8th on their original score of 48.8. U.S. rider Liz Halliday-Sharp also had a great run, coming home with 6.4 time to add to their dressage score.

The vast majority of the starters today came home double clear, which is impressive for these young horses. Two pairs chose to retire on course, and four were eliminated.

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In the 7-year-old class, Thomas Carlile and Tenareze moved up from second into first place with a double clear effort after overnight leaders Nicolas Touzaint and Carentinhus were eliminated on course with three refusals.

Once again, most of the pairs completing came home double clear, so the leaderboard remains relatively unchanged aside from a few pairs who did not make it home. One pair retired and three were eliminated in this division.

Mondial Du Lion: [6YOs] [7YOs] [Twitter] [Facebook]

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