Classic Eventing Nation

Sunday Links

By on Apr 6, 2025 12:00 am -

It’s never a bad idea to get out and volunteer! And, on the flip side, it’s also important to remember that our events are largely run by volunteers and it pays to treat them with respect. If you want to get out and help this year, you can earn leaderboard points in the USEA’s Volunteer Incentive Program, and many venues also have their own volunteer rewards program. Click here to see what opportunities are available near you here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Rocking Horse Spring H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Pine Hill Spring H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

CDCTA Spring H.T. (VA): [Website] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Links & Reading

Thoroughbred Fan Earns USDF Gold Medal On Her Former RRP Entry

Letter To The Editor: Malibu Moon Is Second-Most Prolific Sire Of Kentucky Three-Day Event Starters

Market Analysis: An Overview of the Equine Industry in the Americas

Why Straightness is So Important and How to Achieve It

Video Break

Go behind the scenes with Olympic medalist Laura Collett (GBR):

Have a glimpse behind the scenes at legendary Laura Collett Eventing's yard setup! 🇬🇧

Laura rides in Selleria Equipe, E.A. Mattes GmbH and uvex equestrian 🦓

Posted by Zebra Products on Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Boyd Martin Dominates Stable View Spring CCI4*-S

By on Apr 5, 2025 8:33 pm -

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Boyd Martin very nearly swept the Stable View Spring CCI4*-S podium this weekend in Aiken, S.C., claiming 1st, 2nd and 4th among a stand-out class. The placings shuffled between his three horses, but Boyd refused to concede the top spot in any phase. Once the dust settled, Yankee Creek Ranch’s Commando 3 (Connor 48 – R-Adelgunde, by Amigo xx) emerged as the winner.

The 12-year-old Holsteiner kicked things off on Friday by winning the dressage on a 26. “He was sensational on the flat. He put in a great test. He’s a horse that’s got incredible extravagance, and he’s performing well. He’s just starting to get really seasoned at this level, so we’re very pleased with his dressage test,” Boyd said.

“Connor” stepped down into second place after one rail dropped in the show jumping before once again pouncing into the lead during the final phase cross country phase, which he completed with eight time penalties for a score of 38.

“Even though we had four penalties (in the show jumping), I was very pleased with how he jumped a tough, technical track. It was up to size, and we just ticked the third-last fence,” he continued.

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Connor was poised to strike in his five-star debut last fall at Maryland, but an early fall thwarted their efforts, leaving the pair with increased grit and determination as they set their sights on the Kentucky CCI5*-L.

“This cross-country course (at Stable View) was a great preparation for him. It had everything: good coffins, three water jumps, corners, and narrows, and he gave me a really positive, brave feeling the whole way around,” Boyd said. “We still have three weeks of training ahead, with a couple more gallops, but I’ve got my tail up with Connor. I think he’s in great shape coming into Kentucky.”

Boyd Martin and Fedarman B. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Boyd’s Paris Olympics partner Fedarman B showed his depth of experience trailblazing for his stablemates, especially as he navigated the Defender Columbia Coffin Question at 12abcd, which had riders buzzing as they walked the course. Eight time penalties granted “Bruno” a second place finish (38.8)

“He went really well. He’s in great shape. This is his first time going to Kentucky. He’s been to Luhmühlen (Germany), Pau (France) and he’s been to the Olympic Games, but he’s never really competed [at this level] in America. He’s almost a little too brave sometimes on cross country, but the five-star events suit him,” Boyd said. “We’ll try to get him settled in, but it’s important not to ride him too fast in a five-star because it’s a long, demanding course. I think Kentucky’s big jumps and open gallops will actually suit him. He gets a bit over-aggressive sometimes, but if we can keep him relaxed between the jumps, I think he’ll do great.”

Last (for Boyd), but certainly not least — he was fourth in fact — is Luke 140 (Landos x Omega VI, by Limbus).

Riding for the Luke 140 Syndicate, Boyd piloted this “wild man” slightly slower than the rest with 11.2 time penalties added for the sake of control, but came through the finish flags with an increased confidence in the 14-year-old Holsteiner.

Boyd Martin and Luke 140. Photo by Shelby Allen.

 

“He’s a rocket ship, and I love him,” Boyd said. “He’s a maniac—he’s got this amazing blend of careful and brave. I’ve been a bit cautious with him because he’s wild! It’s tough to contain him at times, but I think we’re in good shape with him.”

For a horse who often teeters the line between feral and fantastic, Boyd is hopeful that a massive endurance challenge in Kentucky will be a good match for “Luke.” “He’s a pain in the ass every single day. He’s just a ball of energy, and he can’t contain himself. It’s in his DNA—he’s not being naughty, he’s just wild! I’ve come off him seven times this year, but you have to remind yourself that when it gets tough at the top level of sport, he’s a champ. I’ve put up with a lot, but I think he’s one of the best horses in the country.”

Boyd’s winter season was slightly unusual after a hip surgery set him on the sidelines briefly. Coming back from that, he’s carefully calculated his training, and these results at Stable View were gratifying proof that everything was going to plan.

“I’ve been a little cautious with them this year after surgery early on. I’ve been taking it easy, focusing on keeping them healthy and confident in their preparation,” he said. “Today, though, I felt like it was time to open them up a bit. I needed a good fitness run, and the crew here at Stable View did a sensational job on the footing. It was the perfect moment to push them without taking any ridiculous risks.”

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Shelby Allen.

No one was able to wrestle the lead from Boyd, but Morven Park CCI4*-L winners Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy (Cit Cat x Stomeyford Black Pearl) came the closest. Julie had the pedal down with Sheri Gurske, Renee Senter and her own 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse, finishing three seconds over the optimum time — the fastest round of the day — to plant themselves on the podium in third place.

“I wasn’t trying to be the fastest, but I was trying to be fast. I’m preparing for my first five-star, and I really wanted to use this weekend as a good prep for it. I wanted to see where his fitness level was, so I tried to ride a little tighter, taking more direct lines to the fences. He was such a champ. I’m so excited! He felt incredible today,” Julie said. “He just made it look easy. And at the end of the day, that’s what I wanted. I almost want four-stars to feel a little boring for him, right? So then you know you did all the preparation right so you’re ready for your first five star.”

Julie Wolfert and SSH Playboy. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Stable View was a key preparatory event for Julie and “Jaego” as they have plans for a five-star debut this spring. They are entered at Kentucky, but she’s also applied for the European Development Tour which would pivot their travel plans toward Luhmühlen instead. Julie has been somewhat of a nomad this spring in preparation—traveling back and forth from her home base in Bucyrus, KS, to FEI competitions along the east coast. This commitment to her own competition goals as well as her students back home is a sacrifice, but one that has bolstered her belief in her riding.

“It’s so rewarding, honestly. I get emotional just talking about it, but it can be so hard eventing in the Midwest. When I can compete alongside people from the bigger Areas and even be on the podium, it feels pretty amazing, like I compete with with them, and you know, prevent Boyd from having a podium sweep. I can’t see myself as the underdog anymore. It’s kind of cool—I really am a good rider, and it gives me so much confidence.”

Starting in 15th, those scant 1.2 cross country time penalties were Julie and Jaego’s only fault to finish on 39.3 penalties.

Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Great Britain’s Lucienne Bellissimo rounds out the top five with Horse Scout Eventing’s Dyri. Like Julie, Lucienne is also gearing up for her and the 13-year-old Holsteiner’s (Diarado x La Calera, by King Milford xx) first five-star.

This pair were second after the first phase on a commendable 27.9 and dropped one rail in the show jumping, which Lucienne feels is an effect of her shifting focus toward fitness work rather than gridwork at home, but she got the best feel from his confident cross country effort, which added 13.6 time penalties.

“He was unusually a little bit lit up and strong for the first six or seven fences. We came out of the start box a bit energized, but I could feel the fitness work starting to kick in, which is great because that’s something he’s struggled with historically—staying with me and staying switched on for cross-country. But all in all, it was one of the best rides he’s given me. He had a lot of confidence and wasn’t second-guessing or double-checking things. He felt a bit more set up, which I’m grateful for because the last thing I wanted was for him to go out and feel like he wasn’t trusting me,” she said.

For Lucienne the next three weeks will be focused on maintaining the confident feeling that she achieved at Stable View this weekend. “I’ll do some galloping, run through the test a few times, and just cross country school him.” she said. “But mainly, I just want to keep him safe, sound, and happy. I’m not going to Kentucky to try and lay down a great score; I’m going to try to quietly upgrade him, keep my head down, and just keep him confident. Hopefully, in time, he’ll become super competitive at that level.”

Emily Hamel and Corvett. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Aiken-based Emily Hamel and Corvett were sixth (46.2), Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic were seventh (48.7), and Mia Farley and BGS Calculated Chaos were eighth (51.3). Kim Severson and Cooley Corraghy Diamond were ninth (51.3), and Christina Henriksen finished 10th with Cisco’s Calor Z (51.4).

Stable View Spring 2*/3*/4* and H.T. (SC:): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]`

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Apr 5, 2025 12:01 am -

Now that the fields have been revealed for Defender Kentucky (which is SO CLOSE now!), it’s time to keep an eye on some of the pairs who’ve been tapped as ones to watch this year. Now, we know world #1 Tom McEwen is aiming JL Dublin, who’s very nearly won at Kentucky as recently as last year, at Badminton instead of Kentucky, but there is still a full field of threats to take home that coveted 5* win and winner’s share of the $400,000 prize fund.

You can catch up on our Kentucky coverage, including our previews of both the 5* and 4* entries, here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Rocking Horse Spring H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Pine Hill Spring H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

CDCTA Spring H.T. (VA): [Website] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Links & Reading

The unique genetic change that turned horses into athletic powerhouses

Commentator Bryce to make Grand National history

Piggy March: ‘We Need to Believe in Our British Events’

Take The Chronicle of the Horse’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Survey

Horsepeople’s Top Tariff Questions Answered
Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands

Did you know that World Equestrian Brands will come to you to help you find the perfect saddle for both you and your horse? Click here to find a fitter near you.

Video Break

We thoroughly enjoyed the pure chaos that is Anna Buffini trying to “cook” with her horse, Flynn:

Boyd Martin Sitting Top Three in Stable View CCI4*-S

By on Apr 4, 2025 5:47 pm -

Boyd Martin and Luke 140. Photo by Dave Shapiro.

The morning began humid with a slight breeze. As the sun peeked over the horizon the Stable View warm-up rings were filled with grays, bays, and chestnuts. The CCI2*-S and CCI3*-S divisions did their dressage in the Tree Arena while the CCI4*-S, Advanced, and Intermediate divisions did their dressage in the Hunter Arena.

Concluding the CCI4*-S Dressage Boyd Martin and Yankee Creek Ranch’s Commando 3 topped the leaderboard on a 26. Lucienne Bellissimo followed close behind, both figuratively and literally. She and Horse Scout Eventing LLC’s Dyri followed Boyd and Commando in dressage order of go as well as slotting into second place with a 27.9. Boyd and Luke 140, owned by the Luke 140 Syndicate LLC, were third on a 29.2.

The horses and riders had a quick break before heading to the Mark Phillips Arena to jump the track designed by Chris Barnard. Boyd and Commando 3 were the first ones to enter the arena. The audience was quiet as they navigated the course. The pair unfortunately had a rail down at 11B, the out of a one-stride before coming to the final oxer. Rails fell for the first four combinations before Julia Wolfert and SSH Playboy were the first to produce a double clear round. Second placed Lucienne and Dyri joined the four-fault group with the top rail tipping on 4A. At the conclusion of show jumping, Boyd topped the podium with all three of his horses after two double clear rounds on Luke 140 and Federman B.

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Dave Shapiro.

The overnight CCI4*S leader is Boyd Martin and Luke 140 on a 29.2. Sitting only .8 penalties behind himself in second place is Boyd Martin and Commando 3. With a 30.8 Boyd and Federman B, or Bruno as he is known in the barn, sit in third going into show jumping. All eyes will sure to be on Boyd tomorrow. When asked about his day Boyd shared, “I had a good day. I brought three of my top horses who are headed to the Kentucky Five-Star, Federman B, Commando 3, and Luke 140. All of them put in really good dressage tests and jumped around the show jumping really well.”

Lucienne and Dyri are sitting in fourth place on a 31.9 going into Cross Country. She shared, “My sole purpose of bringing Dyri here is to try and give him a nice run and keep his brain happy before he steps up to his first CCI5* at Kentucky later this month. I’m so happy with his consistent marks in the dressage now, 25-27 in the last couple CCI4*s, he’s been fantastic and there’s so much more to give. He show jumped well, had an unlucky pole early on, and then tried hard through the rest of the course, which rode a touch more technical and square than perhaps historically; all helps prep these horses for the direction the sport is heading. Fingers crossed for Saturday.”

Aiken-based rider Emily Hamel and Black Flag Option’s Corvett are sitting in overnight fifth on a 37.4 only adding one second of time to their dressage score. Emily said, “Overall very pleased with our performance in the four-star today. There’s always room for improvement in dressage but he’s getting more rideable with age which is helpful. I am grateful every time I get to jump Barry. He is truly amazing and makes a big, technical SJ track feel easy. I’m looking forward to having a confidence boosting cross country run tomorrow and carry that into the Kentucky 5* later this month.”

Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri. Photo by Dave Shapiro.

Currently there are twenty-four CCI4*-S combinations who are set to jump Helen West’s Cross County track tomorrow. Regarding her track Helen shared, “There are four distinct differences between the four-star and the Advanced. The four-star is very much designed as a pre-Kentucky prep run. That set it always has to be true to the level and has to be fair for combinations coming here and potentially doing their first four-star. I’m hoping I got the balance right. I think there is enough out there to test combination but I think the track has a really nice flow. I think the guys here have done a really nice job with the ground. They’ve been verti-draining, irrigating, and the footing feels good. I think that will allow these horses to have their pre-Kentucky run and come out of it feeling good and feeling ready for the test that lies ahead of them.” To hear Helen’s complete commentary on several key questions check out the course on the Cross Country App.

Boyd will be one to watch on cross country tomorrow. He also shared his thoughts on the course tomorrow and said, “Cross country looks really really good. I’m really impressed with the work Stable View has done with the ground. They have been madly irrigating, they’ve been watering, and the footing is fantastic. Helen West has built an incredible track. It’s a great sort of preparation event for Kentucky. It’s got everything you’d dream of; it’s got skinnies, corners, coffins, and it’s a nice inviting course but it’s pretty challenging as well. Tomorrow is an important day for me as its their final runs before they go to the Kentucky Five-Star. Hoping they jump around well with confidence and have a fitness run as well.”

You can view a fence-by-fence preview with the course designer, Helen West (GBR), on CrossCountryApp below:

The top three in the CCI3*-S remained unchanged following show jumping. Sydney Hagaman and her own Charmeur are sitting in first on a 27.5. Leslie Lamb and her own Banjo are sitting in second with just one time penalty separating them on a 27.9. To round out the top three is Chris Talley and Allison Pratt’s FE Marco Polo. The top of the Advanced leaderboard also remained unchanged. Woods Baughman and Manderly LLC’s Hopak de Greenbay Z are sitting in first on a 32.9. Skyeler Voss and her own Argyle are sitting in second on a 34.1 while Mia Farley and Karen O’Connor’s Invictus are sitting in third on a 35.4.

The Intermediate saw a slight shuffle of placings. Katherine Coleman dropped from first to third place on her own ESI Baltic Breeze to sit on a 27 going into Cross Country. However, Katherine still holds first place with her own Sirius SB who rose from third after their double clear show jump to sit on a 25. Gabby Dickerson is sitting in second place with Peter Dean’s Assagart Earl sitting on a 26. The CCI2*-S Division only did dressage today and will show jump and run cross country tomorrow. Following Dressage, Isabelle Bosley and Karen Martin’s Conner sits in first on a 24.4. Not far behind on a 24.7 is Mia Farley and Cecile Zovighian’s Nikita. Rounding out the day one podium is Mya Poulos and her own DHI Rock Dancer.

The CCI3*-S kicks off cross country in the morning at 9:30am ET and the CCI-4*S will begin at roughly 12:45pm ET. For Aiken locals, admission is free. Come and experience the thrill of the sport of eventing.

Shelby Allen will be on-site for Eventing Nation for tomorrow’s finale. Stay tuned for her full report!

Stable View Spring 2*/3*/4* and H.T. (SC:): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

A Day in the Life with #Supergroom Andrea Hill and Ariel Grald

By on Apr 4, 2025 9:30 am -

Ariel Grald and Isla de Coco at the Carolina International 2024. Photo by Andrea Hill.

Being a groom for a Team USA rider may not always be glamorous, but it is a role I wouldn’t trade for the world. Join me as I take you through what a typical day looks like as head groom for Ariel Grald at home versus away at a competition.

-AT HOME-

7:00 AM – The day begins bright and early
All grooms and working students arrive at the barn. Since most of our horses are turned out during the night, the first task of the day is to prepare their day stalls. If horses are on a day turnout schedule or if we had to keep horses inside at night due to bad weather, we will go through each stall, dumping and refilling water buckets and packing hay into their hay nets. Otherwise, we will simply fill their buckets with fresh water and head out to the fields to bring the horses into the barn. Depending on the time of year, we will take off/replace the blankets the horses are wearing as they come in, or do so throughout the day as the temperatures increase.

Some of our horses receive morning medication, which we give them before placing them in their stalls. As the horses finish their hay and grain, we start on the daily tasks. In the grain room, we make about four buckets worth of Emerald Valley Fibre-Beet, measure out the Hygain grain into small buckets clearly labeled with each horse’s name for their AM and PM feedings, and refill any syringes needed for the horses’ medications, each also clearly labeled with the horse’s name and type of medicine. Once the horses have finished eating, they will rotate going onto the walker for 20-minute sessions. Our final morning preparations conclude with starting on the laundry for the day, rinsing everyone’s feed tubs, and blowing out the barn aisle to clear any dirt that tracked in during chores.

8:00 AM – Ariel arrives and starts her rides
Ariel writes a list of horses she is going to ride each day and what they are going to be doing as she tailors each horse’s schedule to their individual needs. For the most part, their rides each week will include a gallop or trot day depending on their competition level, a flat day, and a jump day. The other days change depending on the horse and their competition level. In addition to grooming and tacking the horses before each ride, we do therapies such as Bemer, Nebulizer, and Iron Foot treatments.

After each ride, we will untack the horses and brush, sponge, or bathe them, depending on how sweaty or dirty they are. If needed, we will also put the MagnaWave PEMF on them after they have fully dried from their bath. Once about a quarter of the horses are done with their rides, we will start the other horses on the Aquatred walker. The water height and incline angle are adjusted based on each horse’s fitness goals, with these sessions typically starting two months before a competition to reach peak endurance.

10:30 AM – Stall cleaning
It’s time to pick the horse’s stalls while Ariel is busy riding. We prioritize the horses who are out of their stalls first, since it’s much easier to clean.

11:00 AM – Lunch time
At lunch, all of the horses’ hay nets get refilled, with some also getting alfalfa and grain. After lunch, the barn aisle is blown again to clean any hay that might’ve fallen onto the ground while feeding. Keeping a clean and tidy barn is crucial to efficiency, organization, and daily management. Throughout this time, someone is always tacking and untacking horses so Ariel can continue her rides.

2:30 PM – Finishing up
Towards the end of the day, Ariel will finish up her last few rides. Around this time, the vet may also come out during their weekly visit – or monthly during our winter season in Florida – if there is anyone we need them to examine. The horses receive their evening medications, and we do any final resets for medicine and Fibre-Beet. For the horses that have finished their rides, we will put their turnout gear back on and either bring them out to their fields or place them back into their stalls if they stay in at night.

Once all the horses are taken care of, we continue with our evening chores until Ariel finishes her final ride. These chores include refilling hay nets, dumping water buckets, raking, and blowing the aisle one last time.

7:30 PM – “Lates”
This is the time of day we call “lates,” when we tackle the remaining chores of the night, including going out into the fields to blanket horses as well as refilling hay nets and water buckets for the horses that are stalled at night. The time of nightly turnout greatly depends on the season. In the summer, it tends to be later, around 7:30-8:00pm, but in the winter, it adjusts to the timing of the sunset.

Andrea Hill, head groom for Ariel Grald. Photo by Heart Horse Media for Athletux.


-AT EVENTS-

The timing at events tends to be more fluid due to ride times and the type of competition; nevertheless, we try to keep the horses’ schedules as consistent as possible.

General Structure for Day of Arrival:
The first thing we do when we arrive at a competition – typically the day before a horse trials or the day before the horse inspection for a long-format FEI event – is get all of the horses settled into their stalls. This includes filling hay nets, waters, and feed tubs, as well as organizing all the gear into the tack stall. Once everything is set up, Ariel starts with her rides for the day.

For FEI events, if we arrived the day before, Ariel will usually take the horses on a relaxing hack to help them acclimate to the show grounds and ride in her ring familiarization time to prepare for dressage day. Typically, the horses are fed after their rides, but this can vary based on arrival time. About 4 hours later, we refill the hay nets and water and make sure that the stalls are clean. The horses also get to go out for a graze and, if we arrived the day before, a full-body bath.

FEI Jogs:
On jog day, our goal is to ensure the horses look their very best! We braid their mane and forelocks and wrap the top portion of their tail to keep them smoothed down. As a team, we walk over to the jog strip, helping to hold and walk the horses around. If space allows, we will walk the horses in one big circle. Ariel practices jogging while we keep an eye on the horses to make sure they look polished. Just before it is their turn to be presented, we give them one final brush down and unwrap their tail wraps.

Day of Competition:
I aim to arrive at the barn an hour or two before Ariel to prepare the stalls for the day and do any necessary braiding. If needed, some horses will get a pre-lunge or pre-ride before heading into the warmup ring. Each morning, I give all of the horses a tube of Ulcer Gard and any other morning medicines they may need. I keep my phone handy to track when each horse needs to be ready for their pre-ride or competition ride.

We stick to lunch time at 11:00, while dinner timing depends on the last ride of the day. This helps to ensure that all the horses get fed at the same time. At shows, we also like to switch off who is videoing Ariel’s rides and who is bringing down the horses to the ring.

Show Jump Day:
Show Jump day involves a few more technical details compared to dressage day or arrival day. While most of the day stays the same, one or two of us will go down to set jumps in the warmup, along with videoing Ariel’s ride. For FEI competitions, one of us will also do the hind boot check for the officials to watch as we place the boots back on. For Prelim and up horses, they will wear ice boots after they show jump. At the end of the day, we wrap the horses’ legs to ensure they recover properly.

Cross-Country Day:
Cross-Country day has an added layer of complexity compared to Show Jump day due to all the preparation and care. Before the horses head out on cross country, I put in the studs Ariel selects based on the footing and the level. For long-format FEI, we prepare three to four buckets, three sweat scrapers and sponges, towels, vet wrap, halter, and extra shoes and bring them to the vet box. Whether we meet her at the finish flags or she trots into the box, we quickly switch the horse’s bridle to a halter and remove the saddle so we can begin the process of cooling them down with water and sponges. If the horses are warm, we will walk them around and repeat the process of applying water and sweat-scraping them until their temperature and breathing are back to normal, then they can return to their stalls.

For both FEI events and horse trials, we bathe the horses after cross country and check that their shoes still look good. The icing routine for the horses varies based on their level. Training Level horses will get their front legs iced once with wraps. Preliminary horses will get their front legs iced once with SoundHorse ice boots. Intermediate and Advanced horses will get their front legs iced twice in the SoundHorse boots and have their back legs iced with wraps. Depending on how the horses are feeling, we will also do a session of the Bemer on them. At the end of the day, we poultice and wrap the upper-level horses, then put Magic Cushion into their hooves.

Ariel Grald gives Leamore Master Plan a cuddle after presenting for the USA. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

I am very fortunate to work with such an exceptional team and incredible horses. I’m grateful for the opportunity to support such a talented rider and a team that shares the same passion and dedication as I do. It’s a true privilege to contribute to their success and watch them shine in and out of the ring. It’s the hard work, bond with the horses, and support of the team that makes this job so fulfilling.

Andrea Hill is the head groom for Ariel M. Grald Eventing, based in Vass, NC, and Ocala, FL. Ariel is a highly-respected elite event rider who competed with Team USA at the 2022 FEI Eventing World Championships in Pratoni, Italy, on Leamore Master Plan, where she placed 11th individually. She is known for her passion of working with and developing young horses and building unique, personal relationships with each of her horses, and attributes much of her success to her dedicated team, headed by Andrea, who enable her to maintain a focus on her riding and competitive goals. Ariel and Andrea hope to see her current upper-level horses qualify for consideration in future US Team competitions, including the 2026 FEI Eventing World Championships in Aachen.

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on Apr 4, 2025 12:01 am -

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Cora Williamson for Liz Crawley Photography.

We’re eagerly anticipating Stable View’s spring 4*-S this weekend in Aiken, SC, where a few Kentucky hopefuls are running their final prep ahead of the big dance at the end of the month in Lexington. We’ll have a full wrap-up report from the action, which is also serving as a US Equestrian Open of Eventing qualifier leg, coming your way from Shelby Allen this weekend, but in the meantime you can use the link list below to follow along.

Attending an event at Stable View isn’t only about competing, of course! The team on the ground always organizes some great activities, including complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres for competitors and families on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings from 5pm-7pm in Ollie’s Inn during Stable View’s traditional “Graze and Gaze”. Friday’s Graze and Gaze is sponsored by Engineered Equine Performance and Saturday’s is sponsored by Forestier Sellier Saddlery. Also, on Saturday from 11:00am – 4:00pm, you can take advantage of a VIP expeirence! Tickets are $75 per person, and limited tickets remain. Ticket holders receive a picnic lunch consisting of Stable View’s signature charcuterie from the Bistro at Stable View, an open bar with beer + wine, access to the Pavilion upstairs, and a stainless steel Stable View tumbler! Click here to snag your ticket before they’re gone.

Stable View Spring 2*/3*/4* and H.T. (SC:): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

U.S. Weekend Preview

Rocking Horse Spring H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Pine Hill Spring H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

CDCTA Spring H.T. (VA): [Website] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

News & Reading

While Galway Downs reached a big milestone with the LA City Council approving a venue change for the LA28 Olympics last week, FEI president Ingmar De Vos seemed to hedge a little on the final voting from the International Olympic Committee, which is due to take place during an executive board meeting on April 9. “We hope, we think – there is an executive board meeting of the IOC on April 9, so we believe that hopefully by then the master plan, the venue master plan, will be finalized, and that we will know where we will go,” he said, according to a report by Horse & Hound. “But we are in permanent contact with the Los Angeles organising committee about this – everything’s going in the right direction, but we are under a non-disclosure agreement so we cannot say anything.” We’ll keep an eye out for further updates as the final picture becomes clearer.

Cornelia Fletcher made a triumphant return to competition last fall at The Event at TerraNova (FL), winning the CCI4*-L aboard her longtime partner, Daytona Beach 8, just months after giving birth to her daughter, Sparrow. Despite less than four months back in the saddle, Cornelia and the talented but quirky Oldenburg mare delivered a stellar cross country and show jumping to leap from 15th after dressage to the top spot on a final score of 41.4. “This win meant more to me than I can put into words,” she shared. “It was my first competition since having Sparrow—and winning with Daytona just made it even more special.” Cornelia’s story is a powerful reminder that motherhood and five-star dreams can coexist. Read the full story on Practical Horseman here.

Adult Riders, it’s time to rally your teams! The 2025 USEA Adult Team Championships (ATC) will once again run in tandem with the USEA American Eventing Championships (AEC) presented by Nutrena Feeds, taking place August 27–31 at Galway Downs in Temecula, CA. This year brings exciting changes: Starter level has been added to the ATC lineup, while Preliminary has been retired to reflect growing demand at the lower levels. Riders in the Rider or Amateur divisions from Starter through Modified are eligible—and if you’re aiming to compete on an ATC team, don’t forget to submit your Letter of Intent by August 1! Mixed Area teams are welcome, and every rider must be 22+ and part of their Area’s Adult Rider Program. Want the inside scoop or to get involved? Click here to learn more and fill out the Letter of Intent.

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

Scope out the Bistro at Stable View ahead of your visit this weekend!

Video Break

Dynamic duo Chris Talley and Lee Maher stopped by for the latest episode of The Jon and Rick Show:

Bayou Gulch Horse Trials is Growing in 2025

By on Apr 3, 2025 9:30 am -

Last March, we touched base with Colorado eventers as they prepared for and organized the inaugural Bayou Gulch Horse Trials at The Colorado Horse Park, thanks to the new ownership of Singletree Equestrian LLC.

Prior to the 2024 Bayou Gulch Horse Trials, it had been five years without eventing at The Colorado Horse Park.


The 2024 Event was a success, with beautiful weather, and divisions running from Starter-Modified with 150 competitors traveling to attend. I caught up with Heather McWilliams, registered Organizer of the Bayou Gulch Horse Trials, to discuss last year’s event, preparation for the 2025 season, and future plans to come.

“This year, we’re flipping the format, with show jumping on the last day in The Colorado Horse Park Coors Arena. It has amazing footing, and a great warm up, it will raise the experience on the final day for competitors and spectators alike ” Heather outlined. “Based on our responses from our Area IX survey, footing was top of the list of important qualities, which can be difficult out west. We’re renting the arena to have the best footing for our horses, and have purchased our own aerator to use it on the Bayou Gulch cross country land whenever we see fit.”

 

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While all three phases ran on the south side of the road last year, where The Colorado Horse Park cross country has been held previously, including for two Young Riders Championships and the 2018 American Eventing Championships, this coming year will include show jumping and prize giving in the Coors Arena, and will include stabling again at The Colorado Horse Park.

Having the facility back is big for the area. Heather has seen people drawn in from Arizona, Texas, Utah, Montana – 10 states in 2024 – as well as all over Colorado – it’s a great destination spot, with the high quality Colorado Horse Park facilities, and nearby Parker close to everything including the mountains, with plenty to do outside of the event.

“Last year, we invented the wheel, now we know a little better of what to expect,” Heather said. “It’s been well received, the community has been amazing and helpful – anything they can do financially, painting, mowing… it’s amazing to see people show up in different ways, and be excited to have eventing back at The Colorado Horse Park.”

Photo by JJ Sillman.

The volunteer spirit and sweat equity are helpful for a nonprofit organization and effort! As are sponsorships and assistance in funding efforts. Just as they did last year, Bayou Gulch Horse Trials is hosting the Bucks for Bayou Benefit, an online and in person auction on April 12th to help raise money for the event. Items such as a Tamie Smith lesson, a Daniel Steward coaching course, a subscription to RideIQ and more are available, with new items added daily. You can find auction items here.

These volunteer and funding efforts will see the addition of a Preliminary course this year and help in efforts to host a Bayou Gulch’s “Chill” CT on May 10th, cross country schooling on May 11th, Bayou Gulch Horse Trials August 2 & 3, and a nearby Daniel Stewart clinic August 23-24th.

“We want these schooling and educational efforts to promote eventing from a grassroots level, providing an open door at all levels, to equestrians of all disciplines,” Heather stated.”

Engaging with the equestrian community as a whole will emphasize the important role of equestrian sports in Douglas County. With a variety of people showing up in large numbers to participate in a horse sport, Heather is confident the interest will show how these resources can be used in the community. The level of interest in engaging in horse sports such as eventing can show the need to support horse spaces, such as providing large parking areas for trail heads, community arenas and trail courses, supporting venues such as the Horse Park, and more.

Eventually, Heather sees the event growing back towards what it was, hosting Young Riders, and the AECs. “We have beautiful and diverse ground, with terrain, gulches, water, trees, and lots to add overtime to keep the momentum building.”

Photo by JJ Sillman.

In addition to a fantastic venue, the Bayou Gulch Horse Trial crew seems to bring plenty of energy and spirit into the mix as well. “I just have so much appreciation for everyone who supported last year, and the ways in which they have and will again this year,” Heather expressed.

If you would like to extend support to our Colorado Eventers, the Bucks for Bayou Benefit is coming up on April 12th, and will include an online auction with national items. Additionally, there are sponsorship slots still available – contact the Bayou Gulch Horse Trials for more information at [email protected] or go to www.bayougulchhorsetrials.com.

Thursday News & Notes

By on Apr 3, 2025 12:01 am -

​Mark your calendars for the Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation’s Spring Festival Fundraiser, set for Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Full Moon Farm in Finksburg, MD. This family-friendly event supports FMFEF’s mission to promote good horsemanship and foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within the equestrian community. ​

Admission is free, and all are welcome to enjoy a day filled with activities. Volunteers, vendors, and donors are encouraged to participate; those interested can reach out via the contact information provided on FMFEF’s official page here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Rocking Horse Spring H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Stable View Spring 2*/3*/4* and H.T. (SC:): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Pine Hill Spring H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

CDCTA Spring H.T. (VA): [Website] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

News & Reading:

Riders at Thoresby’s Eventing Spring Carnival praised the introduction of new frangible fence designs, which blend modern safety with traditional aesthetics. The course, designed by Stuart Buntine, marked the first competition use of the updated frangible “parallelogram” chassis, earning support from top riders like Tom McEwen, Laura Collett, and Gemma Stevens—even those who triggered pins. “If it saves a life, it’s worth it,” said Laura. Read more on Horse & Hound here.

Eventing rules were front and center on day two at the FEI Sports Forum in Lausanne, with discussions ranging from potential changes to flag and frangible penalties to the exciting prospect of a new U25 championship. The FEI Eventing Committee, led by David O’Connor, also floated tweaks to MER rules and inspections, and even hinted at using tech to improve flag judgments. Nothing’s official yet—final decisions land in November—but it’s clear the 2026 rulebook (and the LA 2028 path) could look very different. Catch up on the full session here.

From beginner lessons to top-10 AEC finishes, 17-year-old Carolyn Rice has grown up in the sport of eventing—and now she’s paying it forward as a mentor and instructor at Willow South Riding School in Georgia. A longtime member of the USEA Interscholastic Eventing League, Carolyn is looking ahead to this year’s Championship at Stable View with her new partner, Fernhill Oreo. After heartbreak and healing with a previous horse, she’s more inspired than ever to pursue a future in veterinary medicine—and keep competing as part of a team that feels like family. Read the full story here.

Video Break

Hear from TerraNova 4*-S winner Jessie Phoenix after she took home the US Equestrian Open of Eventing qualifier leg win with Freedom GS:

Preview the Entry List for the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S at Defender Kentucky

By on Apr 2, 2025 12:02 pm -

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Entries for the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S, which runs alongside the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event’s CCI5* class, have been published after some logistical juggling on the part of the organizing team to accommodate as many entries as possible in 2025. This 4*-S has grown in scope since its inaugural year in 2021, and is now widely known as both a bucket-list event as well as a stiff test of mettle as a horse and/or rider prepares to step up to 5* or a 4*-L later on in the season. Joking referred to as a “5*-Short” by many, this division always promises a competitive field, and that trend remains true for this year’s entries.

A total of 67 pairs are currently entered in the 4*-S, but we do anticipate that number to drop slightly as a few riders have entered on more than the maximum allowed number of two horses. Naturally, there are likely to be a few withdrawals ahead of competition as well, but for now let’s preview the list we have so far.

Notable on the entry list are Will Coleman and Hyperion Stud’s Chin Tonic HS, multi-time winners at the 4* level and 11th in their sole 5* start at Kentucky back in 2022. Chin Tonic HS narrowly missed out on a team spot for the Paris Olympics in 2024 when a relatively minor but ill-timed injury saw the now 13-year-old Holsteiner gelding sidelined just before Kentucky last spring. Now, “Chin” is back in action, taking home the Grand Prix Eventing Showcase win at the start of March and building on that with a handy 3*-S win at TerraNova just last weekend.

Will has been open about his plans to target the next World Championships (happening at Aachen in Germany next year) with this horse, prioritizing 4* competitions on this path instead of pushing to get to another 5*. This combination will be favored to win this competition at Kentucky.

Will Coleman and Off the Record. Photo by Shelby Allen.

But similar to Michael Jung’s presence in the 5*, the entry of Chin Tonic HS is of course no guarantee of a victory in this US Equestrian Open of Eventing qualifier leg. We’ve got several other pairs that will mount a serious threat to Will’s win chances, including one of his own other entries, Off the Record. This stalwart partner of Will’s who carried him to the first-ever U.S. victory at CHIO Aachen in 2022, is another horse who won’t necessarily be aiming at a 5* in the near future, but he should certainly be counted in as winner potential with his consistency in all three phases for Will. There’s also a third entry on the books for Will, who will have to narrow down the selection to two horses when it’s all said and done, in a new ride, the 10-year-old Irish mare Very Dignified. Previously campaigned through the 4* level by Ireland’s Robbie Kearns, this mare was added to Will’s string this year, and they’ve eased into things with an Intermediate run at Bouckaert Equestrian last month. This is an exciting new ride, one who’s won at the 4*-L level before (Mallow – 2024), and while we may not end up seeing this mare in Kentucky, she’s certainly one to keep an eye on as her partnership with her new rider progresses.

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Also poised to make a serious run at the win are Paris Olympians Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake. Blake is another horse that’s very much on a Championship trajectory, and while we could see some changes to Caroline’s entries at Kentucky based on whether or not she is awarded a berth on the USEF European Development Tour that would take her to Europe instead, this pair is another one to watch for a potential win in the 4*. Blake also ran a 3*-S, at Carolina in mid-March, with Caroline for a lower-key pipe opener as both he and his rider get back into the swing of things, Blake after his Paris break and Caroline after returning from maternity leave just a few weeks ago.

Caroline has also entered the towering King’s Especiale, another horse she believes has Championship and real 5* potential who’s coming off of a top-15 finish in the 4*-S at Carolina International last month en route to Kentucky.

Phillip Dutton and Possante. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Phillip Dutton has prioritized the 4*-S for his entries this year, though he is planning to head to LuhmĂĽhlen in June (we aren’t sure which horses are targeting this 5* just yet). To that end, he’s only got 4* entries this year in two of his current top rides, Denim and Possante. Both of these horses had excellent runs at the Grand Prix Eventing Showcase in Aiken earlier in the season, and they also both finished well at TerraNova’s 4*-S last weekend, at which cross country exerted its fair share of influence.

Alyssa Phillips and Oskar. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Alyssa Phillips is entered again this year with Oskar, who was the inaugural winner of this division back in 2021. Alyssa traveled to Germany to compete at CHIO Aachen last year, where they finished 15th individually. This year, they’ve come out with an Advanced win at Bouckaert Equestrian in March and are poised to make a run at a second title, carrying with them the ability to compete in all three phases.

Allison Springer and No May Moon. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Another pair you should definitely count in for a winner threat is Allison Springer with Bromont 4*-L winner No May Moon, a formidable competitor who is a strong shout for some serious leaderboard climbing in the jumping phases.

Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

The West coast is sending a strong contingent of consistently competitive 4* horses to Kentucky this year, represented well by Taren Hoffos with two rides in Master Class and Regalla, Tommy Greengard (who spent some time overseas last year training with Tim and Jonelle Price) with That’s Me Z (who finished inside the top 16 at Le Lion d’Angers’ 7-year-old World Championship last fall) and Joshuay MBF, Kentucky 5* winner Tamie Smith and Kynan, James Alliston with a handful of horses that will eventually become two rides: Cora, Paper Jam, Nemesis, and Irish Pop, Sophie Click and Tarantino 54, and Molly Duda with Disco Traveler.

Of course, this preview barely scratches the surface of all of the combinations we’ll see in this very exciting field, so be sure to take a look at the full list below or here on the Kentucky website.

We’ll keep you posted of more developments on both entry lists for Kentucky as it draws ever closer, so keep an eye out right here on EN for the latest news. You can also view our 5* entry preview here.

Defender Kentucky: [Website] [Tickets] [Schedule] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of Defender Kentucky is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

Full Cosequin 4*-S entry list:

Rider Horse Country
Arielle Aharoni COOLEY BALTIC SEA
Christina Aharoni		 USA
James Alliston NEMESIS
Alliston Equestrian		 USA
James Alliston CORA
Alliston Equestrian		 USA
James Alliston PAPER JAM
Alliston Equestrian and Ric Plummer		 USA
James Alliston IRISH POP
Alliston Equestrian, Grace Brownrigg, Margaret Burchell		 USA
Lisa Barry ROSIE’S AVENTADORA
Lisa Barry		 USA
Tracey Bienemann VENEZUELAN RIVER
Tracey Bienemann		 USA
Tracey Bienemann MENLO PARK
Carol McRoy		 USA
Jennie Brannigan FE CONNORY
Nina and Tim Gardner, Jennie Brannigan		 USA
Jan Byyny BEAUTIFUL STORM
Jan Byyny, Jo Byyny, and Richard Byyny		 USA
Kimmy Cecere OS HERMINTAGE
Kimmy Cecere		 USA
Sophia Click TARANTINO 54
Sophie Click		 USA
William Coleman VERY DIGNIFIED
Jerome Broussard, Elizabeth Lendrum, Gloria Callen		 USA
William Coleman OFF THE RECORD
Off The Record Syndicate		 USA
William Coleman CHIN TONIC
Hyperion Stud		 USA
Alexander Conrad MALIBU PREACHER
Alexander Conrad		 USA
Dana Cooke FE QUATTRO
FE Quattro Syndicate LLC		 CAN
Hallie Coon LUCKY FORTUNA
Hallie Coon		 USA
Hallie Coon CUTE GIRL
Helen Coon, Hallie Coon		 USA
Sarah Cousins WIZARD
OTTB Syndicate		 USA
Bruce (Buck) Davidson Jr COOLEY CANDYMAN
Buck Davidson and Carl Segal		 USA
Gabby Dickerson TRADITIONALLY FERNHILL
Roland Millican		 USA
Molly Duda DISCO TRAVELER
Molly Duda		 USA
Olivia Dutton SEA OF CLOUDS
Sea of Clouds Partnership		 USA
Phillip Dutton DENIM
Caroline Moran, Ann Jones, Ann Lapides, Neill Sites		 USA
Phillip Dutton POSSANTE
The Possante Group		 USA
Mia Farley BGS CALCULATED CHAOS
Mia Farley		 USA
Mia Farley INVICTUS
Karen O’Connor		 USA
Kristi Foresman KINGSTON REUVEKAMP’S
Kristi Foresman		 USA
Hayley Frielick DUNEDIN BLACK WATCH
Kathryn Robertson		 NZL
Hayley Frielick SPORTSFIELD LUMIERE
Hayley Frielick		 NZL
Savannah Fulton CASH POINT
Nelson Warnell		 USA
Colin Gaffney BAYMAX
Colin Gaffney		 USA
Heather Gillette VINCENT CHASE
Heather Gillette		 USA
Ariel Grald DIARA
Annie Eldridge		 USA
Tommy Greengard JOSHUAY MBF
Tommy Greengard		 USA
Tommy Greengard THAT’S ME Z
Andrea Pfeiffer, Tommy Greengard		 USA
Taren Hoffos MASTER CLASS
Copperstrong Group, LLC and Taren Hoffos		 USA
Taren Hoffos REGALLA
Carolyn Hoffos		 USA
Cole Horn MBF COOLEY PERMISSION TO LAND
Cole Horn		 USA
Erin Kanara CHARMED VICTORY
Kaelen Speck		 USA
Ema Klugman RF REDFERN
Team Fern		 AUS
Ema Klugman CHIRAZ
Chiraz Syndicate, Ema Klugman		 AUS
Alexandra Knowles MORSWOOD
Katherine O’Brien		 USA
Ali Kuhn LITTLE HAIL
John Crowell		 USA
Sarah Kuhn MR. CASH VAN DE START
Deborah Kuhn		 USA
Rachel Lawson HIGH TIDE
Rachel Lawson		 USA
Emily Mastervich RIO DE JANEIRO
Nicholas Beshear		 USA
Sophia Middlebrook PRONTISSIMO
Christa Schmidt		 USA
Nilson Moreira Da Silva ELMO
Nilson Moreira Da Silva, Patricia Jefferson and Georgine Muntz		 BRA
Chris Newton NOBLE DISCOVERY
Maxine Preston		 USA
Alexander O’Neal REDTAIL PENUMBRA
Alexander O’Neal		 USA
Caroline Pamukcu KING’S ESPECIALE
Redfield King’s HX Group		 USA
Caroline Pamukcu HSH BLAKE
Mollie Hoff, Deniz and Caroline Pamukcu, Sherrie Martin		 USA
Alyssa Phillips OSKAR
Alyssa and Julie Phillips		 USA
Jessica Phoenix FREEDOM GS
Charlotte Schickedanz		 CAN
Tamra Smith KYNAN
Kynan Syndicate LLC		 USA
Braden Speck BSF LIAM
Braden Speck		 USA
Allison Springer NO MAY MOON
Nancy Winter		 USA
Allison Springer VANDYKE
The RICO Syndicate LLC		 USA
Briggs Surratt CORTURE
Briggs Surratt and Rick Wallace		 USA
Lynn Symansky BOUNCE 6
Linda Graves, Alice Lawaetz		 USA
Chris Talley FE MARCO POLO
Allison Pratt		 USA
Skyeler Voss ARGYLE
Argyle Syndicate, LLC.		 USA
Robin Walker SBT BAROLO
Robin Walker, Alston Kerr and Roger Schramm		 USA
Elisa Wallace LISSAVORRA QUALITY
Donna Biggs		 USA
Arden Wildasin BILLY BEAUFORT
Arden, James, and Sarah Wildasin		 USA

Wesley Clover Parks: A New Era for Eventing in Canada

By on Apr 2, 2025 9:30 am -

Photo by Sunkist Media.

For over a decade, Wesley Clover Parks has been a staple of equestrian sport in Ottawa, Canada, but 2025 marks a pivotal era for the 500-acre facility as it officially steps onto the FEI eventing stage. This year, Wesley Clover Parks will host CCI1* and CCI2* competition, expanding its already impressive resume of international show jumping and dressage events, as well as nationally recognized eventing competition.

While the eventing community welcomes this new addition to the competition calendar, the story of Wesley Clover Parks runs far deeper than just another event venue. This is a facility with history, vision, and a long-term commitment to not only growing equestrian sport but also making it more accessible to the broader community.

From Community Staple to Equestrian Powerhouse

An aerial view of Wesley Clover Parks. Photo by Randy Harquail.

Originally established in the 1960s, the park was developed by the National Capital Commission (NCC) and leased by a local municipality. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, it flourished as a premier equestrian destination, hosting show jumping, dressage, and eventing competitions—including the well-known Capital Classic Show Jumping Tournament.. However, as the decades passed, changing city structures and a lack of reinvestment led to the facility’s decline.

By the early 2000s, the park was losing money to the tune of a quarter-million per year, and its infrastructure—once a crown jewel in Canadian equestrian sport—was visibly aging. The city lacked the resources to maintain it, and its future looked uncertain.
That’s when the Wesley Clover Foundation, spearheaded by Karen Sparks, stepped in.

“We knew the park needed to be more than just an equestrian venue. It had to serve the entire community, not just the small percentage of people involved in horses,” Karen explains. “At the same time, we wanted to honor the equestrian legacy that made this place special.”

What followed was a complete transformation. Under new management, Wesley Clover Parks became a multi-sport outdoor hub, offering:

  • Equestrian competitions (show jumping, dressage, and now FEI eventing)
  • A riding school with beginner-friendly access to horses
  • Cross-country ski trails & mountain biking
  • Soccer fields & charity runs
  • Outdoor education programs for kids
  • Concerts & community events

Despite its diversification, equestrian sport remains at the heart of Wesley Clover Parks, and its eventing expansion is a direct reflection of that commitment.

A New Frontier: Eventing at Wesley Clover Parks

A competitor gallops through the newer water complex on course at Wesley Clover Parks. Photo by Golden Canon Photography.

With an established history in show jumping and dressage, adding FEI eventing to the roster was a logical next step.

“We’ve spent the last few years investing heavily in our cross country course,” says Karen. “We now have two water complexes, one designed by Tokyo Olympics course builder and U.S.-based designer Jay Hambly, along with ditches, banks, and solid galloping ground. We’re ready to take eventing to the next level here.”

Wesley Clover Parks will host its first FEI event this September, featuring CCI1* and CCI2* divisions.

But this is just the beginning. The long-term vision is to bring the North American Young Rider Championships (NAYC) back to a single venue that hosts all three disciplines—eventing, show jumping, and dressage—something that hasn’t been done in several years; most recently, the three disciplines were hosted at the Kentucky Horse Park in 2015 but have since been split across multiple venues and time periods.

“We know it’s a long-term goal, but we’re laying the groundwork now,” Karen says. “If we can grow our eventing offerings steadily, we’ll be in a strong position to host major championships in the future.”

Investing in the Future: Young Horses and Young Riders

Photo by Golden Canon Photography.

Further to this is a cornerstone of Wesley Clover Parks’ core philosophies: supporting young horse and rider development.
For jumpers, the facility already offers free entries and prize money for young horse divisions, making it more affordable for breeders and trainers to bring young horses along. That same support structure is now being implemented for eventing, with a focus on:

  • Divisions for all levels (from EV60 to FEI)
  • Schooling opportunities throughout the season
  • Scholarships and bursaries for developing riders funded by the Laframboise Family Legacy Donation
  • Community engagement programs to introduce more people to eventing

“We want to create an environment where young horses and riders have a pathway to success, while also making equestrian sport more accessible,” Karen emphasizes.

The Road to September and Beyond

With its first major event set for September 2025, Wesley Clover Parks is officially entering the international eventing scene, and the team is eager to showcase everything the venue has to offer.

In the meantime, the park will continue working toward its bigger vision—one that balances high-level sport with community integration.

“This isn’t just about hosting another event. It’s about making eventing, and equestrian sport in general, more sustainable in Canada. That starts with building facilities that work not just for elite riders, but for the broader community as well.”

And if the past decade is any indication, Wesley Clover Parks is just getting started.

This article was supported by Wesley Clover Parks. To learn more about Wesley Clover Parks, click here.Â