Classic Eventing Nation

The Inside Scoop on Equestly Riding Gear from the Eventing Nation Team

By on May 17, 2023 3:59 pm -

Team EN has been looking pretty stylish lately: if you saw us at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by Mars Equestrian, you may have noticed our matching jackets, vests, and shirts. This year, we’re showing off our Equestly gear every time we hit the road! Check out what our team has to say about their new Equestly clothes.

On the Seamless Sun Shirts

These are SLIMMING! I have always been a zip-up sun shirt gal, but I’m obsessed with these shirts. – Allie Heninger

So, I’ve always been self-conscious about the belly pooch that has seemingly attached itself to my body since I graduated college. (Thanks a lot, freshman 15 that never went away). Because of that, I try not to wear too many shirts that are form fitting. With these sun shirts, I actually feel confident and stylish in a tight shirt. I don’t know what wizardry is embedded in these, but I need more of them. – Veronica Green-Gott

As a long-armed, long-torsoed gal (my trainer, in the latter part of my teenage years, used to send me into the ring with a pat on the thigh and the enormously unencouraging “go get ‘em, Gorilla Arms”), I’ve long since given up on the idea of one of those nice thumb-holed tops working for me. A bummer, really, as I’m also, deep down, a closet emo kid, and that’s about as close as the world of My Chemical Romance albums and horse shows get to colliding. 

Anyway, Equestly has really done me a solid and changed all that with their Seamless long-sleeve top, a little godsend that has become a staple in my reporting and riding wardrobe since I requested one in basically every single colour from the company. (My favourites are the black – hello, emo, duh – and the rusty orange one, which is a real nice hue, all things considered). It’s just about the only top I’ve ever had that’s actually generous in the arms (I feel like I could actually have a jump school with my thumbs through those holes, which is SAYING SOMETHING for my knuckle-dragging general outline), and although I’d love the body to have an extra inch or two of length to be perfect, I’ve found these bad boys stay put all day if I tuck them into my jeans or breeches, and that’s good enough for me. They’re crazy comfy, super cute, and they don’t hold onto armpit stank, which is an issue everyone I know — myself included — has always had with riding tops. A real win. – Tilly Berendt

I love the material of the shirts and how long the sleeves are, but I think they could be more size inclusive. I usually wear around a medium or large in most shirts, but this large was quite tight and a little short in the length. I feel like if it was slightly longer the tightness wouldn’t have been as noticeable. – Shelby Allen

On the Lux GripTEQ Breeches

Love love love the Equestly breeches and spring line of shirts! They’re cute, flattering, but more importantly keep me comfortable all day between teaching, riding, and managing the farm. Especially with this hot weather rolling in, I’ve been able to stay cool while still getting work done. The one thing I’d love to see would be more pockets!! But the flap over the one pocket is awesome to keep hay/dirt out! – Gillian Warner

The pants are crazy comfy and I love that they have belt loops, so I can try to pass them off as show breeches this summer! – Allie Heninger

These breeches combine the comfort and breathability of leggings with the look of a traditional breech. As someone whose leggings are always rolling down, I love that I can wear a belt with them. My one wish is that they came in a knee patch version! – Veronica Green-Gott

I picked up a cute green pair of breeches, and while I’ve mostly just worn those around the house so far (welcome to the lame horse club, boo), they’re going to join my gymming line-up, because they’re super comfy, super cute, and extra grippy so I won’t fall off my spin bike while I try to stay fit enough to not fall off my horse next time she’s rideable. I’ve never been a riding tights kind of girl, but these ones have swayed me. I suspect they’ll keep me stuck tight to the saddle when I really need that extra bit of help. – Tilly Berendt

I love the breeches! They’re so allowing and stretchy, but still flattering. The silicone patches are very sticky and help keep me in place. I love the big phone pocket too. – Shelby Allen

On the Lux 2-in-1 Jackets

In North Carolina, we regularly experience at least 3 seasons, sometimes 4, in one day. The versatility of the jacket paired with the long sleeve shirt allows me to be comfortable outside throughout all the changes, and look stylish at the same time! – Cassidy Oeltjen

My best experience with Equestly so far has been their Lux 2-in-1 Jacket. I ordered this in hopes of having a layer for being out in all types of weather at events. It has been SO great – I love how the inner shell zips in and out, leaving a nice light rain jacket if you just need something to shield you from the rain. With the inner shell in, it’s nice and warm. I also love the length of the jacket. Nothing makes me feel more marshmallow-esque than wearing multiple layers that don’t go past my waist. I’m also pleased to report that I stood out in a downpour at Stable View a couple weeks ago and the outer shell held up great! No leakage, and the generously sized hood also did wonders to keep me sheltered. – Sally Spickard

You know how Marie Kondo says that your clothing has to spark joy? Well, my Lux 2-in-1 Jacket is just about the joy-sparking-est thing in my closet. It’s been worn everywhere from horse shows to the barn to bougie jazz bars in Philadelphia and it made me happy every time. It kept me dry in a tornado warning/thunderstorm in the streets of Philly and kept me warm typing away in the media tent at Carolina International. The hood stays up on its own without constantly fiddling with it. Plus it’s my horse’s lucky color– yellow. – Veronica Green-Gott

I’ve worn the jacket nearly daily since getting it, because not only is it probably the only truly waterproof coat I’ve ever owned, it’s also SO handy – on warm days, I take the fleece insert out; on cold ones, I pop it back in, and that kind of versatility (plus the touch of waist-cinching) is what I’m here for. I wear my white vest less, purely because I’m a hot mess and I’m trying to keep that thing nice so I can stop looking like a homeless person who’s just snuck into the press conference, but it’s very cute and flattering. – Tilly Berendt

I’m obsessed with the jacket! It’s light enough without the liner to wear all spring but plenty toasty when you pop that liner back in. – Shelby Allen

Our one piece of advice from the entire team: size up for a perfect fit. 

Equestly doesn’t just make great clothing. They’re also driven by their mission to give back to the equine community. They truly go above and beyond for their sponsored riders and for the eventing community. Learn more about their carbon neutral initiative and the founders of Equestly here. 

To shop all of their great riding gear, click here. 

British Events Step Up to Fulfil Cancelled Entries

By on May 17, 2023 12:59 pm -

Bicton course designer and organiser Helen West will add a CCI2*-S to this month’s international. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

There’s something to be said for the speed with which eventing folks can mobilise when the going gets tough — and the going has, quite literally, made things particularly tough this year. Just a scant few hours ago, we shared the news that the Fairfax & Favor Rockingham International Horse Trials had cancelled, giving British Eventing its tenth outright abandonment of this very wet season. That was particularly tough news for CCI2*-S competitors, who had hoped to finally get a run in after losing their divisions at both Thoresby and Chatsworth — but now, thanks to some quick thinking from two teams of organisers, two-star entrants, plus Novice and Intermediate competitors, will still get a chance to run this month.

Bicton International Horse Trials, which famously took on the ‘pop-up’ five-star to replace Burghley in 2021, will add a CCI2*-S to its roster for its event this month, set to be held from May 25–28, among a stacked schedule that sees them host a short-format CCI4*-S and long-format two- and three-star classes. The announcement was made this afternoon, and entries were immediately opened, so the Bicton team, helmed by Helen West, requests that competitors get their entries in as quickly as possible so the team can timetable accordingly. Entries can be made here.

Hampshire’s Tweseldown Horse Trials, which will be held this weekend, has added an extra day on Friday, May 19, to allow for extra Novice, ON, Intermediate, and OI sections to run. There’s a very short entry window open for these classes, bearing in mind the proximity of the event, so entries will officially close at 10.00 a.m. BST tomorrow (May 18), or when full. You can get your entries in here – or, if you’d like to volunteer, Tweseldown’s organisers are desperate for some extra helping hands to get this show on the road. You can get in touch to register your interest via any of the below email addresses:

Fence Judge: please email [email protected]

Dressage Steward or dressage writer: please email [email protected]

Ring steward: please email [email protected]
Anyone who can help with set up tomorrow: please email [email protected]
Go Eventing!

British ‘Spring’ Continues to Wreak Havoc as Rockingham International Abandons

By on May 17, 2023 9:24 am -

Photo by Adam Fanthorpe/Rockingham International Horse Trials.

2023 is turning into the season-that-wasn’t for British Eventing members, as prolonged rainfall since March continues to wreak havoc on the fixtures list. The latest — and thus far most high-profile — event to pull the plug is the Fairfax & Favor Rockingham International Horse Trials, set to take place this week and host national classes from BE100 to Advanced Intermediate, including a class for seven-year-olds, and international classes at CCI2*-S and CCI3*-S.

In a statement on their social media, Rockingham’s organisers said:

“It is with great regret that due to the prolonged adverse weather all competition at the Fairfax & Favor Rockingham International Horse Trials, scheduled to run from 18-21 May, has been abandoned.

Despite a positive drying forecast the site, including the ground for all three phases, has not dried sufficiently to allow the event to proceed in a safe manner and the devastating decision has been made to abandon the event.

Information on entries and ticket refunds will follow shortly.”

“We are absolutely devasted that this call had to be made,” said Horse Trials organiser, Lizzie Saunders Watson. “But the safety of horses and riders is paramount. We were conscious that the weather was against us and had been taking every precaution we could to enable the event to run. Tracking has been installed for vehicle access and our stabling and marquee suppliers have gone above and beyond to get the infrastructure set up on extremely challenging ground.

 “Despite these best efforts, the biggest test was always going to be whether the ground was going to be safe for our competitors. A full ground inspection took place this morning with FEI and British Eventing officials. This included test runs with a horse and rider in all warmup areas, all arenas and the cross county course. Following this, we were told that it would not be safe to run.

 “We are working with our insurers to establish next steps in terms of refunds and will be in touch with everyone as soon as we know more. As you can imagine, this is a huge task to undertake so please bear with us.”

This is the tenth British Eventing competition to be fully abandoned so far this season, though several further events have also suffered partial abandonments — and while some of those partial abandonments have included international classes, such as Chatsworth’s CCI2*, this is the first outright cancellation of an international event in 2023.

British Eventing has also made a statement on its website, saying: “We understand that the abandonment of the FEI classes at Chatsworth International and Rockingham International is both disappointing and frustrating as it means yet another event has become a victim of the prolonged adverse weather conditions.

We also appreciate, that for many of you, these will have been key opportunities to gain MERs or educational runs for your horses and therefore British Eventing is currently looking at alternative opportunities to add International classes into the calendar. Any additions would be subject to FEI approval.

We will of course keep you updated as and when any plans have been confirmed however, in the meantime, we want to reassure you that we are doing our best to work with Organisers in replacing these valuable lost MER opportunities where possible.”

Wednesday News & Notes from Ocala Horse Properties

By on May 17, 2023 12:01 am -

Horsemanship is something that’s been on our minds recently, with a whole host of people voicing their opinions on the matter in both in words and text. For anyone involved with horses, it absolutely should be. Whenever we’re around horses – whether they’re competitive partners or our garden buddies – horsemanship should be at the forefront of every decision we make and every action we take, something Pippa Funnell addresses in her recent Facebook post celebrating the partnership she has with 5* campaigner Majas Hope. It’s a tribute to Hope’s journey, her relationship with him, her responsibility as patron for World Horse Welfare and as a horsewoman, and the joy of a life lived with horses.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Chattahoochee Hills H.T. (Fairburn, GA) [Website] [Entries] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Fair Hill International Recognized H.T. (Elkton, MD) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Hunt Club Farms H.T. (Berryville, VA) [Website] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Otter Creek Spring H.T. (Wheeler, WI) [Website] [Entries] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Spring Gulch H.T. (Littleton, CO) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

The Vista Spring YEH/NEH Qualifier (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring]

Wednesday News and Reading

Alberta is currently under a provincial state of emergency due to multiple wildfires burning across the province. The situation poses a huge threat to humans and animals and the Alberta Equestrian Federation has set up an Emergency Help directory specifically for horse owners. If you’re able to provide help to those who need it, you can sign up here. If you need assistance, click here to view the directory of people offering help. The AEF are also collecting donations via their Equine Disaster Fund. [Alberta Wildfires Emergency Help Directory]

It’s National Numeracy Day today and what better way to do math than have it be about horses. Researchers at Nottingham Trent University have designed an experiment using heart monitors and behavior observation to determine whether horses prefer pats or scratches – Horse Lover’s Math have explained the results of the research and added in some math questions based on the findings for good measure. There are ten questions covering fractions, percentages, place value and more – and if you’re inclined to check your work (or cheat), answers are included. [Horse Math is the Best Kind of Math]

Sycamore seedlings are a no-go for horses and it’s not just grazing near sycamore trees that we need to be aware of – they can get into our hay supply too. I noticed little shoots sprouting up literally everywhere this year and worried that the woodland was attempting to take over my home. Then my vet shared a post on social media explaining that the abundance of sycamore seedlings was due to, of course, the weather here in the UK. A relatively warm, wet fall saw the seeds multiplying quicker than bunnies; follow that up with winter winds so fierce my barn roof blew off and came through my bedroom ceiling, and the little helicopters had the perfect conditions for a massive flight path. The seedlings can be incredibly dangerous for horses as they sometimes contain a toxin which causes atypical myopathy, a potentially fatal muscular disease. I’ve read that there are tests available to determine whether the toxin is present in particular trees, but it’s important to note that the toxicity of the tree alters, so if you go down that route make sure you test trees annually. [Beware the Sycamore Seedling]

Social license has been on all of our lips recently with regards to high-profile international events, but we need to consider all the ways we present horse-human relationships to the world. I watch an awful lot of horse videos online – often for research, often to feed my scrolling habit. So many times I think I’ve found something interesting to include on this page, but then I watch it and, rather than a humorous take on life with horses, I see a horse displaying upsetting behaviors or in situations that, at best just aren’t funny, and at worst, are potentially dangerous. Research and Equine Psychologist Antonia J.Z. Henderson, Ph.D. considers the ever-popular moody mare memes in the context of social license. [The Bigger Picture]

In the latest installment of ‘Pressure Proof’, Daniel Stewart talks about how what’s happening upstairs affects the downstairs (ahem) – in other words, how our thoughts impact our riding. As a keen yogi, I’m not unfamiliar with the concept that different emotions manifest in different parts of our bodies – feelings of tension will show up in your hips and hands, for example. Daniel explains how a simple technique called thought-stopping can help to clear your mind of unhelpful clutter, thus freeing up your body to be the most effective it can be while you’re in the saddle. [Thinking Skills for Equestrians]

And finally, we have this guy. He’s attracting a fair bit of attention for his exploits on a horse he bought off Craigslist with the intention of riding from Austin to Seattle. Some say he’s chasing a Netflix deal, he says he’s fulfilling destiny. There has been a lot of criticism and a few altercations. I just hope his horses are OK. [A Series of Dubious Events]

Sponsor Corner

Did you know that 4* eventer Sara Kozumplik bought her farm from Ocala Horse Properties? Listen in as she talks about her experience working with Matt Varney and Chris & Rob Desino.

Video Break

Joe Stockdale (son of the late Tim Stockdale) and Jack Whitaker (son of Michael Whitaker, nephew of John) have been busy show jumping at the Royal Windsor Horse Show, which took place May 11th-14th (available to watch on demand with a H&C+ subscription). But it’s not all work and no play for the pair. Here’s what went down when they met The Household Cavalry.

Tuesday Video: BTS at Badminton’s Grassroots Championships

By on May 16, 2023 4:00 pm -

Each year when Tilly publishes her grassroots cross country preview at Badminton, it gets me itching to compete again *just* so I could *maybe* make it to something like this once in my life. The course is one of the most incredibly decorated and laid-out, especially among lower-level tracks.

The Voltaire Design Grassroots Championship is contested at BE90 (U.S. Novice equivalent) and BE100 (U.S. Training equivalent) and is run alongside Badminton’s marquee 5* event each spring. This gives competitors a real taste of competing at a major event, while enjoying a championship-caliber show in all respects.

Emma and Abi Stuart keep up a robust YouTube presence, and their week at BE90 championships is chronicled in the vlog above. You can also take a look at Tilly’s cross country preview here.

We Asked SmartPak Employees for Their Best Product Recommendations

By on May 16, 2023 2:00 pm -

My assignment was to pick five things from the SmartPak booth at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, but since I’m a firm believer in the phrase, the more the merrier, I decided to get some outside help. I roped in five lovely SmartPak employees to give me the inside scoop on their favorite products. (Sorry for the ambush SmartPak team!)

Ian Macartney holds the Nantucket Ergonomic Dressage Bridle

Ian Macartney: Nantucket Ergonomic Dressage Bridle

As my first victim, Ian was probably thinking “who is this person” when I walked into the booth and started creeping on the staff. But as soon as I said the magic words, “what’s your favorite product,” he immediately got into the fun. Ian had a tough time deciding between the Nantucket Ergonomic Dressage Bridle and the SmartPak Soft Padded Leather Halter. While he did say that he admired the Amish craftsmanship on the halter, the ergonomic design of the dressage bridle won out in the end. 

This bridle features high-quality English leather combined with soft, comfortable padding. The crown piece offers poll relief, complete with a 2-inch air gap. The anatomic noseband and curved crystal browband won’t put pressure on your horse’s sensitive TMJ and nerve clusters near the nose. You won’t have to worry about a flash restricting your horse’s breathing with this bridle– the ergonomic flash avoids squeezing the airways. Have a sensitive horse? The integrated noseband stabilizes the bit and makes the aids clearer. 

Annina McMillan holds the SmartStride Ultra Pellets

Annina McMillan: SmartStride Ultra

Annina McMillan is the go-to supplement wonder woman at the SmartPak booth. Her favorite product at LRK3DE is the SmartStride Ultra, and let me tell you, she could tell me all about it without even a glance at the back of the label. Annina was explaining to me that this supplement was her favorite because it not only supported joint health, but also contains support for bone and soft tissue, too. 

According to the SmartPak website, a 28-day research study at Texas A&M found that this supplement supported joint health and increased range of motion in the hock. Not only does it have tried and true ingredients, including glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, it also has boron for bone health and collagen and silica to support your horse’s tendons and ligaments. 

In one three minute conversation, Annina had me convinced that this was the supplement for me. My 23-year-old show horse could absolutely use this supplement to keep him thriving and happy in his retirement. 

Megan Kantor holds the SmartPak Ultimate Mesh Fly Sheet

Megan Kantor: SmartMesh Ultimate Fly Sheet

Megan gave me the low-down on the SmartMesh Ultimate Fly Sheet. Megan and her horse have put this blanket through its paces. Apparently, she has a blanket destroyer. And judging by the look on her face, this blanket-destroying horse could put most other hard-on-blankets horses to shame. I’m picturing blankets hanging off his back in ribbons or viciously stomped into the mud. 

The SmartMesh Ultimate Fly Sheet has reportedly held up brilliantly for her and her horse for the past couple years, with no issues to report. The secret to her success is most likely embedded in the fabric itself, which is a durable ripstop material. If your horse truly hulks out and really does destroy its blanket, no worries– it’s backed by SmartPak’s 3-Year Durability Guarantee. It’s also a good choice if you’re located somewhere with particularly toasty summers. The lightweight and breathable fine mesh offers maximum airflow to stop your horse from overheating. 

If your horse is a sensitive nelly like mine, you’ll appreciate the belly band closure and removable neck cover for complete insect protection. 

Sophia Hall holds the SmartPak Slow Feed Hay Bag

Sophia Hall: Slow Feed Hay Bags

As soon as I mentioned the phrase “your favorite SmartPak product,” Sophia essentially sprinted to these SmartPak Slow Feed Hay Bags. Sophia swears by these sturdy bags. She leaves hers outside 24/7/365 and has had them for several years and hasn’t needed to replace them yet. The gator mouth allows her to stuff the bags without needing fifteen extra sets of hands. While the SmartPak website advertises them in two and four flake sizes, Sophia says these puppies can handle quite a lot of hay. 

According to the SmartPak website, even the craftiest horses won’t be able to open the hook and loop closures that hold this bag closed. It comfortably fits 10 to 15 pounds of hay that your horse can enjoy through 1.5-inch or 2-inch square holes. If your horse is an easy keeper, stall-bound, or prone to GI issues, this hay net is a great way to provide entertainment and continuous access to forage.

Brigid Thompson holds the SmartTherapy ThermoBalance Ceramic Mesh Sheet

Brigid Thompson: SmartTherapy ThermoBalance Ceramic Mesh Sheet 

Just like Sophie, Brigid hardly had to think before running over to this SmartTherapy ThermoBalance Ceramic Mesh Sheet when I asked her what her favorite product was. She uses it personally on her own horses on a regular basis. Even her coworkers automatically pointed to the Mesh Sheet when they heard me ask what her favorite product was.

This sheet can be used year-round thanks to the combination of mesh and ThermoBalance fabric. Ideal for cold-backed, stiff, or performance horses, throw this blanket on your horse before you ride to increase circulation and warm up those muscles, or use it after a tough event to hasten recovery. The ergonomic fit, shoulder gussets, and fleece padding at the wither ensure your horse can relax in comfort. 

We always live for a trip through the SmartPak booth each year at Kentucky — be sure to snag your favorite items from this list online, and stop by in 2024 for even more great finds.

This article is brought to you thanks to support from — you guessed it — SmartPak.

FEI Eventing World Rankings Update: Top 4 Unchanged, Tamie Smith to #5

By on May 16, 2023 12:00 pm -

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum take a victory lap at Kentucky. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

With her historic win at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event last month, Tamie Smith now takes a big leap in the FEI World Rankings to achieve her highest position yet at #5 overall. Her point accumulation from Kentucky bumps her from her previous position of eighth.

The reigning #1 and #2 remain unchanged at this ranking with New Zealand’s power duo Tim and Jonelle Price still ruling the roost. Great Britain’s Ros Canter — currently ranked #3 — has a good shot to overtake one of these spots soon, however, with her win at Badminton at the beginning of May (the current FEI Rankings are as of May 4, 2023).

With his second-place finish at Kentucky aboard JL Dublin, Great Britain’s Tom McEwen moves into the top ten at #6 overall, up from his previous ranking of 11th. Australia’s recent 5* winner at Adelaide, Shane Rose, also takes more than a handful of leaps in position to move from #19 to #9 overall.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Miks Master C. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

For the U.S., Will Coleman is still within the top 10, though he loses some ground on this ranking to fall from #5 to #7, and we also welcome Liz Halliday-Sharp to the top 10, moving from #15 to #10 on the heels of a hot spring and a key podium finish at Kentucky onboard Miks Master C.

The newest rankings for FEI eventing riders will come out at the beginning of June to reflect Badminton results and other FEI points accumulated in the intervening weeks.

Longines Luhmühlen CCI5* Entry Preview: World #1 and #2 Joined by Strong U.S. Contingent

By on May 16, 2023 10:00 am -

Felix Vogg and Colero, Luhmühlen winners in 2022. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Hold onto your hats, CCI5* season is just getting underway!

Next up on the 2023 5* tour is the German stop, Longinues Lumühlen Horse Trials, located in northern Germany just to the south of Hamburg. A strong entry list for both the headlining 5* as well as the complementing CCI4* has just been revealed, featuring members of the reigning Olympic and World Championship gold medal-winning teams, the reigning individual World Champion, the reigning individual Olympic gold medalist, as well as a strong contingent from the U.S across both divisions.

View the full CCI5* and CCI4* entry list here.

Tamie Smith and Solaguayre California. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

It’s a juicy one, and some notable highlights from the 5* list include:

  • 2022 Luhmühlen winners Felix Vogg (SUI) and Colero
  • A heavy threat from Great Britain, lead by Tokyo and Pratoni team members Laura Collett (London 52, Dacapo), Yasmin Ingham (Rehy DJ),  and Oliver Townend (As Is, Tregilder, Cooley Rosalent). Other contenders include Kitty King and Vendredi Biats, rerouting after an unlucky tumble at Badminton, Pippa Funnell with 2019 Burghley winner MGH Grafton Street as well as Billy Walk On.
  • A new 5* ride features for world #2 rider Jonelle Price (NZL), who takes the reins on former Cathal Daniels ride L.E.B. Lias Jewel. This 13-year-old Irish mare by Limmerick has contested the 2021 European Championships in Avenches as well as started this event in 2022 with Cathal, but will be seeking a first 5* completion this weekend.
  • World #1 Tim Price brings forward his 2022 Boekelo winner, the 11-year-old KWPN gelding Happy Boy, who despite his 5*-debutant status is a serious threat to finish the weekend on a mid-20s dressage mark.
  • A strong showing from the U.S., with six riders including recent Kentucky 5* champion Tamie Smith, who brings forward the Guariglia’s Solaguayre California for a debut at the level, and Boyd Martin with the Annie Goodwin Syndicate’s Fedarman B. Boyd has also re-routed Tokyo and Pratoni partner Tsetserleg TSF (the Turner family) after an early penalty pick-up on cross country at Kentucky and has also entered Luke 140. These riders are joined by Katherine Coleman on 5* debut horse RLE Limbo Kaiser, Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire, and Matt Flynn and Wizzerd.
  • The U.S. will also have representatives in the 4*: Dan Kreitl and Carmango will use their free flight from Dutta Corp. earned at last year’s USEF National 4*-L Championship, accompanied by Hallie Coon and Cute Girl.
  • While we won’t be joined by German heavy hitters such as Michael Jung or Ingrid Klimke in the 5*, we will see both riders as well as reigning Olympic gold medalist Julia Krajewski in the CCI4*, which is also used as the German National Championship division. 2022 Kentucky winner fischerChipmunk FRH, who is being saved for Paris this season and will focus primarily on short-format events with Michael, will feature in this division.

Tim Price and Happy Boy. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The CCI5* entry list is as follows:

NATION RIDER   HORSE OWNER
Australia Kevin McNab Scuderia 1918 Don Quidam
Scuderia 1918 capital srl & Emma McNab
Australia Will Levett Huberhus AC
Elisabeth Murdoch, Keith Tyson & Rider
Belgium Seppe Vilain Kawa de la Cour Z Steve Vilain
Brazil Marcio Carvalho Jorge Kilcoltrim Kit Kat
Helen & Alistair Mordaunt, Annabel & Alistair Vere Nicoll
Ecuador Nicolas Wettstein Meyer’s Happy
Monique Deyme, Frank Wettstein & Rider
France Florian Ganneval Blue Bird de Beaufour Rider
France Gireg Le Coz Caramel d’Orchis Rider
France Cedric Lyard Unum de’Or
Marie-Christine Duroy-de Lauriere & Rider
France Arthur Marx Church’Ile Philippe Marx
Great Britain Philip Brown Harry Robinson Orbit Electrical Services Ltd.
Great Britain Sarah Bullimore Corquet
Kew Jumping Syndicate, Brett Bullimore & Rider
Great Britain Kirsty Chabert Opposition Loire Daisy Chain Syndicate & Rider
Great Britain Emelie Chandler Gortfadda Diamond Maria Doel
Great Britain Laura Collett Dacapo
Diana Chappell, Gillian Morris-Adams, Alison & Michael Smedley & Carolyn Taylor
Great Britain Laura Collett London 52 Keith Scott, Karen Bartlett & Rider
Great Britain David Doel Ferro Point Christine & Hannah Lees & Molly Nunn
Great Britain Pippa Funnell Billy Walk On Barbara & Nicholas Walkingshaw
Great Britain Pippa Funnell MGH Grafton Street Jane & Jonathan Clarke
Great Britain Xanthe Goldsack Hi Tech Rider
Great Britain Matthew Heath Askari Plum Rowland
Great Britain Yasmin Ingham Rehy DJ The Sue Davies Fund
Great Britain Tom Jackson Farndon Anne & Lain Slater
Great Britain Fiona Kashel Creevagh Silver de Haar Fiona Breach
Great Britain Emily King Valmy Biats Philippe Brivois
Great Britain Kitty King Vendredi Biats
Diana Brown, Sally Lloyd Baker, Sally Eyre & Samantha Wilson
Great Britain Harry Meade Cavalier Crystal Charlotte Opperman
Great Britain Harry Meade Red Kite Nigella Hall & Alexandra Robinson
Great Britain Selina Milnes Iron Angela & William Rucker
Great Britain Imogen Murray Roheryn Ruby MS Team, Kim Pengelly & Fran Reeve
Great Britain Will Rawlin The Partner Miranda & Andrew Rawlin & Rider
Great Britain Kylie Roddy Carden Earl Grey Earl Grey Tea Party-Goers
Great Britain Izzy Taylor Happy Days
Alex Colquhoun, Lavinia Taylor & Caroline Wilson
Great Britain Izzy Taylor Monkeying Around Mark Sartori & Rider
Great Britain Oliver Townend As Is John Peace
Great Britain Oliver Townend Cooley Rosalent Paul W. Ridgeon
Great Britain Oliver Townend Tregilder The Hazeldines & Mitchell Fox Group
Ireland Susannah Berry Monbeg by Design Helen Caton
Ireland Declan Cullen Seavaghan ASH Becky Cullen
Ireland Felicity Ward Regal Bounty James O’Callagham
Japan Ryuzo Kitajima Feroza Nieuwmoed Riding Club Crane
New Zealand Muzi Pottinger Just Kidding Pottinger Family
New Zealand Jonelle Price L.E.B. Lias Jewel Jo Breheny
New Zealand Tim Price Happy Boy Susan Lamb & Therese Miller
Switzerland Felix Vogg Colero Jürgen Vogg
USA Katherine Coleman RLE Limbo Kaiser Rider
USA Sydney Elliott QC Diamantaire Carol Stephens
USA Matthew Flynn Wizzerd
Kathleen & A. Patrick Flynn & Merry Go Round Farm
USA Boyd Martin Fedarman B Annie Goodwin Syndicate
USA Boyd Martin Tsetserleg TSF Christine, Thomas Iv & Tommie Turner
USA Tamra Smith Solaguayre California Julianne & David Guariglia
Germany Nicolai Aldinger Timmo Jutta & Michael Spethmann
Germany Arne Bergendahl Luthien Helmut Bergendahl
Germany Emma Brüssau Dark Desire GS Jürgen Brüssau
Germany Jerome Robine Black Ice Dorothea von Zedtwitz

Action for Longines Luhmühlen will begin on Wednesday, June 15 with the first horse inspection. All action will be live-streamed on H&C+ with a subscription or a one-time event viewing pass. Tilly Berendt will be our reporter on the ground, and we’ll have much more coming your way from Germany very soon.

Go Eventing.

Longines Luhmühlen: [Website] [Entries] [Timetable] [Live Stream]

EN’s coverage of Longines Luhmühlen Horse Trials is brought to you with support from Kentucky Performance Products.

Tuesday News and Notes from Kentucky Performance Products

By on May 16, 2023 7:40 am -

It’s tiiiiiime: the MARS Maryland 5 Star box office is opening on Friday, and if you’re in that sort of neck of the woods, they’re hosting a sales event at Fair Hill Saddlery that sounds like it’ll be all the right kinds of bonkers. (I mean, Boyd will be there, so it’s anyone’s guess what’s going to go down!) Definitely a Saturday sweetener not to miss — and you could win some seriously good swag, too. Get involved!

Events Opening Today: Chattahoochee Hills H.T., Summer Coconino H.T. I, Twin Rivers Summer H.T., Inavale Farm HT

Events Closing Today: Essex H.T., Carriage House Farm Combined Test, Genesee Valley Riding & Driving Club Spring H.T., Poplar Place June H.T., Ocala Summer H.T. I, GMHA June H.T., MCTA H.T. at Shawan Downs, The Spring Event at Archer, IEA Horse Trials

Tuesday News & Notes from Around the World:

Good news, but also annoying news for Thoroughbred lovers: as of Paris 2024, pure Thoroughbred breeding will be recognised in the Olympics — extraordinarily, it’s previously been recorded as ‘unknown breeding’. Baffling stuff. But for those folks who are bringing talented young Thoroughbreds up through the ranks, the Young Horse Championships at Le Lion d’Angers, which are effectively a studbook competition, will still be off-limits, despite many vocal calls for them to open up to blood horses. [A baffling one, this]

Do you ever find yourself just kind of winging it in your warm-up? Honestly, same: I go in with kind of a plan of action, and then end up getting a bit frazzled by dodging other riders, trying to find space to open my horse’s stride, and, frankly, I get influenced by what other people are doing and copy them. It’s a mess! I’ll be taking British u25 champ Greta Mason’s advice into account to sort my life out. [Warm up sensibly]

We all love Piggy, and if you’ve watched it, you probably love PiggyTV, too. Horse Sport sat down with this veritable legend of sport and at-home broadcasting to find out more about her journey up from keen Pony Clubber to two-time five-star winner, and gives you the chance to tune in for a free episode, which takes us on a jolly good snoop around William Fox-Pitt’s yard. It’s great stuff. [Get Piggy with it]

Riding well is just, like, 10% of the equation. When it comes to eventing — and, actually, any kind of horse sport — knowing your horse, and understanding when they’re in pain, confused, or frightened is even more important, and that’s why learning to be a horseman rather than just a rider is key. These great tips will help coaches to ensure they’re building consummate all-rounders, rather than just riders who show up, jump on, and ride for a rosette. [We’ve all got to do the dirty work]

Sponsor Corner: If your horse is sensitive to sugar, be very careful turning them out on the spring grass. Kentucky Performance Products has a fascinating blog full of spring grazing tips 👉 check it out!

Watch This:

Check out a week in the life of a competitor in Badminton’s Grassroots Championship, and be prepared to be wildly jealous of anyone who gets to take part in this very cool competition!

US Equestrian Announces Land Rover U.S. Eventing Squad for 2023 CHIO Aachen CCIO4*-S

By on May 15, 2023 5:30 pm -

Lexington, Ky. – US Equestrian is pleased to announce the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Squad for the CHIO Aachen CCIO4*-S at CHIO Aachen World Equestrian Festival in Aachen, Germany, from June 30 – July 1, 2023. The squad will be led by Chef d’Equipe Robert Costello. From the squad, the four-combination Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team and individual combination will be announced closer to the event.

The following combinations have been selected to represent the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Squad and are listed in alphabetical order:

• Will Coleman (Gordonsville, Va.) and Off The Record, a 2009 Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by the Off the Record Syndicate.

Chin Tonic HS, a 2012 Holsteiner gelding owned by Hyperion Stud, LLC, will be Coleman’s direct reserve horse.

• Phillip Dutton (West Grove, Pa.) and Z, 2008 Zangersheide gelding owned by Thomas A. Tierney, Suzanne Lacy, Caroline Moran, Ann Jones, Evie Dutton, Patricia Vos, and David Vos.

• Ariel Grald (Southern Pines, N.C.) and Leamore Master Plan, a 2009 Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Annie Eldridge.

• Liz Halliday-Sharp (Lexington, Ky.) and Miks Master C, 2012 Swedish Warmblood gelding owned by Ocala Horse Properties, LLC and Deborah Palmer.

• Tamie Smith (Murrieta, Calif.) and Mai Baum, a 2006 German Sporthorse gelding owned by Alexandra Ahearn, Ellen Ahearn, and Eric Markell.

Competition Information

Competition will begin on Friday, June 30, with the dressage and jumping phases, followed by the cross-country phase on Saturday, July 1.

Event website | Schedule | Entries and results