Classic Eventing Nation

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

Monday Video: Queen Cue is Back, Baby

By on May 15, 2023 4:00 pm -

It’s been a minute since we’ve seen the winner of the inaugural Maryland 5 Star, On Cue, out and about. But if you were lucky enough to be at Tryon International this past weekend you may have caught a glimpse of her rocking around the CCI3*-S with Boyd Martin!

Now 18-years-old, the Selle Francais mare owned by Christine Turner is returning to competition and leaving the start box for the first time in over a year — she had able time off after winning Maryland in 2021 and then again after completing the CCI4*-S at The Fork in the spring of last year. Boyd is clearly very happy to back out competing with the mare, and we’re delighted that he’s shared this Jockey Cam video with us so we can join them for the ride.

Tryon International Three Day Event (Mill Spring, NC): [Website] [Results]

Weekend Winners: Tryon, Galway, Hitching Post, Majestic Oaks, Unionville, Spokane, Winona

By on May 15, 2023 1:00 pm -

A busy weekend with seven HTs running across the country, from starter to 4*L divisions running.

We saw numerous fantastic rides, which you can catch up on here, but a special shout out goes to Spokane Sport Horse Trial’s Open Novice winner Mary Burke and Valentino who win our Unofficial Low Score Award by bringing in an impressive 16.9!

Congrats to all on a great weekend!

Tryon International Three Day Event (Mill Spring, NC) [Website] [Results]

CCI4*-L: Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Nutcracker (31.0)
CCI4*-S: Boyd Martin and Fedarman B (33.2)
CCI3*-L: Caroline Martin-Pamukcu and She’s The One (28.7)
CCI3*-S: Bruce Davidson Jr. and Business Class (38.3)
CCI2*-L: Caroline Martin-Pamukcu and HSH Tolan King (31.7)
CCI2*-S: Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp and Maybach (31.0)
CCI1*-S: Meg Pellegrini and Cooley Wish Upon A Star (32.8)
Advanced: Jenny Caras and Trendy Fernhill (34.1)

Galway Downs Spring H.T. (Temecula, CA) [Website] [Results]

4* CT: Gina Economou and Cooley By Design (44.0)
Advanced CT: Emilee Libby and Toska (36.1)
Open Intermediate: Erin Kellerhouse and Bon Vivant GWF (33.0)
Open Preliminary: Allyson Hartenburg and Karel H (49.1)
Preliminary Challenge: James Alliston and Coolrock Wacko Jacko (29.4)
Open Modified: Erin Kellerhouse and Woodford Reserve (24.8)
Junior Training Rider: Sophie Celeste and Max Attraction (29.7)
Open Training: Barbara Crabo and Excel Star First Class (35.0)
Senior Training Rider: Shelby Murray and Sonik Mambo No.5 (24.4)
Novice Rider: Sadie Geernaert and Quixotic KC (24.6)
Open Novice: Erin Kellerhouse and FE Cupcake (20.0)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Charlotte Boleda and Bellechase (31.2)
Open Beginner Novice: Chloe Smyth and Topper (22.9)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider A: Peyton Hayatian and Brochacho (29.4)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider B: Monica Such and Afleet Tom (36.9)
Open Starter: Michelle Casey and Anita Bonita (28.0)
Starter Rider: Tiffany Jorgensen and Mr. Blue Sky (31.0)

Hitching Post Farm H.T. (South Royalton, VT) [Website] [Results]

Modified: Paige Vezina and Gone Black (41.6)
Training 1: June Clark and Dealin’ Diamonds (28.8)
Training 2: Brittany Powers and Brave Indy (31.6)
Novice 1: Corrinne Lauze and Anam Cara (25.6)
Novice 2: Ashley Glynn and Pia Nye Liv (26.1)
Beginner Novice 1: Riley Scherer and Deus (32.9)
Beginner Novice 2: Molly Czub and Zuko (37.8)
Beginner Novice 3: Jillian Middaugh and Isn’t She Sweet (29.1)

Majestic Oaks Ocala H.T. (Reddick, FL) [Website][Results]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Melissa Morgan Paul and Uptown Indy (54.2)
Open Preliminary: Ainsley Hagen and Risque S (31.7)
Open Modified: Alexander O’Neal and Fernhill Liverpool (29.0)
Open Training: Alexander O’Neal and Bravo Charlie (28.3)
Training Rider: Vanessa Stevenson and Fidelio (26.7)
Novice Rider A: Wendy Low and Mr. Steve (27.8)
Novice Rider B: Sophia Carattini and Artax (27.8)
Open Novice A: Christine Feret and Throw Down (28.3)
Open Novice B: Declan Bast and FE Melody (25.8)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Raegan Samson and McLaren (22.7)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Brittany First and Meadowlark (24.1)
Open Beginner Novice A: Elliott Timmons and Nebraska RFB (25.0)
Open Beginner Novice B: Griffin Deyo and Olaina (23.5)
Starter-Intro: Vanessa Stevenson and Virgo (25.7)

Unionville H.T. (Coatesville, PA) [Website] [Results]

Open Intermediate: Alexandra MacLeod and Newmarket Jack (43.2)
Open Preliminary: Daniel Clasing and Et Cetera (25.5)
Modified: Carroll Courtenay and Mr. Puff Higgens Jr. (30.0)
Open Training: Diego Farje and Kolbeinn (24.7)
Training Rider: Rachel McDonough and Heaven Made (31.7)
Novice Rider: Charlotte Carrajat and Late Night (28.3)
Open Novice: Kelsey Abrecht and Julian (26.7)
Junior Open Beginner Novice: Mia Thombs and Bantry Bays Winston (26.2)
Open Beginner Novice: Kelly O’Brien and B.E. Never Say Never (27.3)

Spokane Sport Horse Spring H.T. (Spokane, WA) [Website] [Results]

Open Intermediate: Kerry Groot and Borasco (33.8)
Open Preliminary: Amy Haugen and Ebenholtz (21.8)
Open Modified: Hanni Sreenan and Zena (23.3)
Jr. Training: Brianna Rasmussen and de la Renta (31.9)
Open Training: Marc Grandia and Levino (26.7)
Training Amateur: Erika Perez and Santana (31.2)
Jr. Novice: Rhys Bentley and Overtime Magic (28.6)
Novice Amateur A: Korbin Eckert and Pridefulleigh (21.1)
Novice Amateur B: Sarah Broussard and Ultimo D’Amerloo (26.1)
Open Novice: Mary Burke and Valentino (16.9)
Beginner Novice Amateur A: Crystal McRae and Pursha (22.9)
Beginner Novice Amateur B: Maya Henderson and Action Jaxon (24.4)
Jr. Beginner Novice: Isabella Montana and Tequila Sunrise (32.7)
Open Beginner Novice: Ali Holmes-Smith and CC Macjack (27.4)
Starter: Whitney Spicher and Castleside Maguire (23.0)
Young Event Horse 4 Year Old: Hayden Sottovia and Blue Slide Park (84.9)
Young Event Horse 5 Year Old: Michele Pestl and Tristan (90.7)

Winona Horse Trials (Hanoverton, OH) [Website] [Results]

Preliminary Open: Bentlee Swisz and Isabel (59.5)
Training Open: Christina Ellison and Loughnatousa Warrior (29.8)
Novice Open A: Amanda Wilson and High Tide Rambler (29.3)
Novice Open B: Madeline Bletzacker and Drummer Boy (21.9)
Beg Novice A: Brandi Podboy-Fish and First Rate (33.5)
Beg Novice B: Lauren Heba and FMF Applejack (25.9)
Beg Novice C: Adalee Ladwig and Symphony Dansee (26.8)
Beg Novice D: Brandi Podboy-Fish and Sword of Roheryn (29.4)
Starter Open A: Lisa Boncosky and Guilded Reward (31.7)
Starter Open B: Alayna Lalka and The Frog Prince (29.7)

Liz Halliday-Sharp Dedicates Tryon CCI4*L Win to Mom

By on May 15, 2023 10:28 am -

The pressure was on Liz Halliday-Sharp and the Ocala Horse Properties’ + the Nutcracker Syndicate’s Cooley Nutcrackerc in the Tryon Spring International CCI4*-L as they went in to show jumping with only 0.2 penalties between them and Jacob Fletcher with Fabian.

Liz Halliday-Sharp dedicates her 4*L to mom Deborah Halliday this Mother’s Day. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Cooley Nutcracker, a 9-year-old Irish gelding by Tolant R, has proven to be reliable in the show jumping phase, which paid off again on Sunday. Adding only 3.6 cross country time penalties to their score, Liz Halliday-Sharp was able to secure Cooley Nutcracker’s first 4* win — and, believe it or not, Liz’s first career 4*-L win.

In celebration of Mother’s Day, Liz dedicated her win to her mother, Deborah Halliday, who is also part owner of Cooley Nutcracker. As the day also happened to be the birthday of Liz’s late father Don, the dedication of the win to her family serves a reminder of the team effort and support that goes in to each successful weekend.

Jacob Fletcher and Fabian finish on their dressage score for a second place finish in the 4*L. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

We saw an impressive showing from Jacob Fletcher and Fabian, who added nothing to their dressage score of 31.2. As previous 4*-S winners at both Tryon and TerraNova last year, Jacob and the 13-year-old KWPN gelding used their experience to keep the pressure on and jump around a clear show jumping track to finish just 0.2 penalty points away from first.

Boyd Martin’s partnership with Commando 3 might be new, but is a partnership to watch. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

This was the second FEI event we saw with Boyd Martin’s new partnership with DSN Equestrian Ventures’ Commando 3 (Connor 48 – R-Adelgunde). With a previous seventh place finish in the 4*S at Carolina, the new duo is off to a strong start, adding just 0.8 cross country time penalties to end on a 32.3 for third.

Boyd also saw success in the CCI4*-S at Tryon, claiming three of the top four final spots. Riding clear in both jumping phases and adding on a handful of cross country time to their score, Boyd and the Annie Goodwin Syndicate’s Fedarman B saw victory. This is the duo’s second win at Tryon, having won the CCI4*-L last year.

Runner-up to Boyd and Fedarman B was Boyd with the Turner family’s Tsetserleg. Wrapping up the top three we saw Tamra Smith with Solaguayre California coming off of their second place finish in the CCI4*-S in Kentucky a few weeks back.

In the CCI3*-L, Caroline Martin-Pamukcu and She’s The One maintain their lead throughout the weekend, followed by second place finishers Tamra Smith and Kynan and Sharon White and Shirsheen Ice in third, moving up after double clear show jumping and cross country rounds.

Bruce Davidson Jr. and Business Class were your CCI3*-S winners, followed by Ashley Adams and Charly, and Jenny Caras and Sommersby just 0.3 behind second.

A 2* AND 3* victory for Caroline Martin-Pamukcu. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Caroline Martin-Pamukcu and HSH Tolan King won the CCI2*-L with Lauren Billys Shady and Can Be Sweet in second, and Jenny Caras and Beaulieu’s Cecelia third.

Liz Halliday-Sharp takes another win this weekend in the CCI2*-S with Maybach, leading the competition from start to finish. Kim Severson and Arden Juju take second, with Phillip Dutton and Fernhill Shutterfly in third.

In the CCI1*-S, Meg Pellegrini and Cooley Wish Upon A Star moved up from third after double clear jumping phases, finishing on their dressage score of 32.8. Lucia Strini and Dassett Evermore finished second on their dressage score of 33.0, as did third place competitor Ariel Grald and Cullintra End Game, finishing on a 34.3.

It was a busy weekend, and a fun one to follow! Many thanks to Shannon Brinkman Photography for keeping us in the loops through her lens:

Tryon International Three Day Event (Mill Spring, NC): [Website][Scoring]