Classic Eventing Nation

France Names Squad for FEI World Championships at Pratoni

By on Aug 23, 2022 9:00 am -

#EVENTING #ATTELAGE FEI World Championships Pratoni – Roma 2022 –

Après les Mondiaux de Herning, direction Pratoni…

Posted by FFE – Equipe de France on Friday, August 19, 2022

Adding their squad to the Pratoni party are the French, historically among the more consistent podium finishers in World Championships history and looking to add some more hardware to their medal cabinet in Italy next month. A 6-combination squad has been named for FEI World Championships for Eventing, which begin in earnest on September 14 at Pratoni del Vivaro. The French are the current defending bronze medalists in both World Championship and Olympic competition, and we’ll see the return of one pair from the Tokyo team in Nicolas Touzaint and Absolut Gold HDC.

Nicolas Touizant (FRA) and Absolut Gold. Photo by Sally Spickard.

The named horses and riders are as follows, in alphabetical order:

  • Tom Carlile and Darmagnac de Béliard – nine-year-old Selle Français gelding (Canturo x Palme de Moyon, by Barbarian). Owned by S.C.E.A. de Beliard and Jean-Jacques Montagne, and groomed by Camille Coton.
  • Héloïse Le Guern and Canakine du Sudre Z – 12-year-old Zangersheide gelding (Felton du Mont*Charles de Gaul x Listia du Sudre, by Duc du Maurier). Owned by Bénédicte and Philippe Le Guern, and groomed by Bénédicte Le Guern.
  • Cyrielle Lefèvre and Armanjo Serosah –12-year-old Selle Français gelding (Romando de l’Abbaye x Jolyjo Serosah, by Sassanian). Owned by Charline Guerin, and groomed by Soizic Lefèvre.
  • Gaspard Maksud and Zaragoza – nine-year-old British-bred Sport Horse mare (Cevin Z x unrecorded dam). Owned by Martin Thurlow and Jane Young, and groomed by Lucy-Anna Westaway.
  • Astier Nicolas and Alertamalib’or – 12-year-old Anglo-Arab gelding (Summer Song x Dambine, by Prince Ig’Or). Owned by Aliette Forien, Nicholas Paul, and the rider, and groomed by Laura Schmitt.
  • Nicolas Touzaint and Absolut Gold*HDC – 12-year-old Selle Français gelding (Birkhof’s Grafenstolz x Belle Meralaise, by Verglas). Owned by Haras des Coudrettes, and groomed by Aure Coulange.

France’s Nicolas Touzaint and Absolut Gold HDC. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Olympic team bronze medallists Nicolas Touzaint and Absolut*Gold HDC are the arguable lynchpins of this team — they finished sixth individually at the Games, and were tenth individually at the 2019 European Championships, where they were part of the fourth-placed French team. Nicolas’s own team experience is extraordinarily extensive: though this will be just his second World Championship (he last competed in a WEG in 2006 with his five-star champion Hidalgo de l’Ile), he’s competed at five Olympics and eight Senior European Championships. Most notably, perhaps, is that he’s been European Champion twice — and the second time he managed it, back in 2007, the Championships were held at Pratoni.

Astier Nicolas and Alertamalib’Or. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

He’s joined by Tokyo teammate Astier Nicolas, whose selected horse, the 2017 Seven-Year-Old World Champion Alertamalib’Or, might come as something of a surprise to those who had expected to see five-star partner Babylon de Gamma on the list. But although Alertamalib’Or slipped out of the spotlight for a not inconsiderable length of time due to injury, he’s been on exceptional form since his return, winning Saumur CCI4*-L this spring and taking 13th in the huge final selection trial at Haras du Pin CCIO4*-S this month. This will be a second World Championships for Astier, who took individual silver and team gold at the Rio Olympics with Piaf de b’Neville; he previously contested the 2018 WEG with former ride Vinci de la Vigne, finishing seventh.

Each of the four remaining combinations listed will be making a World Championships debut: Tom Carlile, the most experienced team rider of the four, has two European Championships under his belt (2015 and 2017) and was the travelling reserve for Tokyo, though none of those appearances were with the nine-year-old gelding Darmagnac de Beliard, with whom he was fourth at Bramham CCI4*-L in the horse’s level debut this summer. While he’s relatively inexperienced with just nine FEI starts on his record, the striking horse has finished in the top ten in eight of them.

Heloïse Le Guern and Canakine du Sudre Z complete their three-phase climb to take victory in Bramham’s Under-25 CCI4*-L. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

24-year-old Héloïse Le Guern makes her Senior championship debut in Pratoni after representing France a total of five times at Pony, Junior, and Young Rider European Championships. Her partnership with the former Cedric Lyard ride Canakine du Sudre Z saw her take top honours in Bramham’s coveted under-25 CCI4*-L this year, and they impressed for sixteenth place in the Pratoni test event CCIO4*-S back in May. British-based Frenchman Gaspard Maksud also made his French team debut this year, riding at Aachen with the exciting Zaragoza. They earned a spot well in the hunt after an impressive dressage performance, though a very late stumble on cross-country ended their weekend there early — but they redeemed themselves in the final selection trial at Haras du Pin this month, taking fourth place out of over 110 of the world’s fiercest competitors.

Cyrielle Lefevre and Armanjo Serosah. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

A string of very good cross-country performances over tough courses has earned Cyrielle Lefèvre and Armanjo Serosah their first call-up. They debuted at CCI5* at Pau in 2021, finishing clear and inside the time for twentieth place; this feat was followed by a confident run at Badminton this spring. Their top-twenty finish with a quick clear at Haras du Pin cemented their reputation as a swift, reliable pair in this phase — something that’ll prove vital over Pratoni’s tough hills.

The six named combinations will now travel to Saint-Martin de Brehal from the 27th of August to the 9th of September for a final training camp, during which the team, individual, and reserve allocations will be decided.

“For this final preparation stage, we have selected six couples who have run well this season and have been competing regularly for two seasons,” says French chef d’equipe Thierry Touzaint. “These horses are good gallopers, which is important because I think the cross country will be demanding. We know the site well; the course will have a lot of elevation so we will physically prepare our horses as well as possible. The training course is going to be used for that, but also to refine the dressage tests and make the last small adjustments to the showjumping. The novelty is also the arrival at the course of two young riders, who have an interesting profile for the future. This is the reason why I want to throw them in the deep end. In the end, it will be the five couples whose horses are in the best shape who will go to the world championships. The names will be announced on September 5.”

Gaspard Maksud and Zaragoza seal the deal with an impressive performance at Haras du Pin. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“The Federation provides our riders and handlers with the best experts in their fields to optimize the talent of women, men and their horses,” says Serge Lecomte, President of the French federation, in a translated statement. “Within the French collective reigns a blue spirit, which pushes towards performance with the essential support of the owners and the teams who surround each one, made up of trainers, grooms, veterinarians, farriers… Together, well coordinated, we are stronger.”

“Our National Technical Director is the conductor of all these converging energies that allow France to maintain its rank in the battle of nations… Long live sport and may our best find their way to gold medals!”

The French federation’s National Technical Director, Sophie Dubourg, continues: “Less than two years from the 2024 Paris Games, we are leaving for these Eventing World Championships with the dual objective of obtaining medals, but also of seasoning pairs and riders in major championships. Our leaders will be keen to get on the podium after their fourth place in the teams four years ago at Tryon. Unlike the format of the World Equestrian Games and the Worlds in Herning a few days ago, these two championships are held a few days apart. If it is a pity not to benefit from the emulation created by this multidisciplinary side, there is no doubt that our teams in France will be able to find all the motivation to perform.”

“Participating in these events would not be possible without the support of the owners. We encourage them to keep their horses; their role is essential to allow riders to practice at the highest level and to excel under the colors of France. The federation supports high-potential couples through personalized support dedicated to them and those around them.
We hope that these Worlds will smile on us and we will fervently encourage our Blues!”

Final entries and team/individual designations are due to the FEI on September 5. Want to see more from #Pratoni2022? Click on over to our Ultimate Guide to FEI World Championships for more!

Tuesday News & Notes from Ocala Horse Properties

By on Aug 23, 2022 7:48 am -

If there’s anything in the world more to-the-point than ponies, it’s the people who own them. Thanks to Marti Mitchell for giving us all a good giggle with this sign spotted in the stables at The Event at Archer Area IX Championships. You can almost hear the deep sigh of the person who wrote it.

Events Opening Today: Morven Park Fall International CCI4*-L,CCI3*/2*YH-S, CCI4/3*/2*-S & HT, WindRidge Farm Fall H.T., Ocala Fall Horse Trials, Radnor Hunt H.T., Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T., Hitching Post Farm H.T., Heritage Park H.T.

Events Closing Today: USEA MDHT YEH/NEH Qualifier, CDCTA Fall H.T., GMHA September H.T., Flora Lea Fall H.T., Chardon Valley H.T., Five Points H.T.

Tuesday News & Notes from Around the World:

Considering taking your love of horses to degree level? Check out some of the equine-related programs in North America, which could help get you on an exciting professional pathway. [You’re probably better off getting a degree that’ll lead to a really well-paid job though tbh]

French artist André Brasilier is at the centre of a new exhibition at Sothebys Hong Kong. The 93-year-old’s extraordinary oeuvre dates back to 1959 and features a number of vibrant, expressive horse paintings, which are inspired by some of his favourite places in France. [We’ll admire them from afar because we don’t have half a million dollars]

The latest in US Eventing’s series on long-standing events takes us to Vermont. There, we’re learning about the rich history of Huntington Horse Trials, the roots of which stretch back to the USET’s 1970s heyday. [At home at Huntington]

Ocala Horse Properties Dream Farm of the Week:

 

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The idea of living within an equestrian park appeals to my sense of convenience and community enormously, and this stunning smallholding sits comfortably within Ocala’s Saddlebrook Equestrian Park, just moments away from WEC. With seven stalls in its airy barn and more than six acres of turnout, it’s a little patch of paradise in horse heaven.

Listen to This: Ariel Grald and five-star groom Brooke Massie, who will head to Pratoni next month with Colleen Loach, are the guests of the week on the latest edition of the Heels Down Happy Hour podcast — and they’re discussing all things la dolce vita.

Watch This:

If you’ve not yet tuned in to Lucinda Green‘s enormously informative cross-country video series and seminars, you’re missing out — but you’ve got such an extraordinary wealth of content to catch up on that’ll arguably redefine how you view the pivotal phase of our sport.

Fresh Faces Join Experience in New Zealand World Champs Team

By on Aug 22, 2022 6:42 pm -

World-ranked Tim and Jonelle Price spearhead New Zealand’s team for the FEI World Eventing Championships in Italy next month.

Jonelle Price and McClaren. Photo by Shelby Allen.

The no. 2 and 5 ranked eventers are joined by Olympian and former World Champs representative Clarke Johnstone, along with debutants Monica Spencer and Amanda Pottinger.

ESNZ general manager of high performance Jock Paget says it is an exciting team to name as the nation also looks towards the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

“It’s encouraging to have the combination of championship debutants and experienced campaigners such as Tim, Jonelle and Clarke in the team,” he said. “This is our qualifying opportunity for Paris and we are hopeful of contesting the medals. We’ve had a good build-up in terms of training and have invested into more team competition this year – hopefully, this pays dividends on the day.”

Two-time Olympian Tim will compete aboard 13-year-old Falco, a German-bred gelding who in 2021 won the 5* at Pau. Forty-three-year-old Tim twice rode at World Championships with an eighth in 2018 at Tryon his best effort.

He chuffed to be named on a team he describes as “positive, determined and ready to go to work”.

Tim Price and Falco. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“We go there with earnest and optimism,” said Tim. “We will go in and do what we can all do on our best day and that could net us a good result. I am very excited to have a nice, classy horse to take in Falco.”

The final touches to training and fitness would now be made before the champs.
Jonelle is in on McClaren, a 15-year-old gelding who last year was third in the 5* at Pau, and in 2018 contested the World Champs with Sir Mark Todd.

The 41-year-old rider was New Zealand’s best at the 2014 Caen World Champs when she earned the moniker as the world’s fastest woman with her fourth placing. She has previously competed at three Olympic Games and two World Championships.

She’s confident the partnership she and McClaren have built up over the past few years is now well established. “He hit the big time quite early in his international career but I think now he has some really good mileage behind him and I am hoping we can go to Champs and play our part, putting forward a good team score,” she said. “Our preparation is going well and I am looking forward to getting down there. I am delighted for the owners David and Karie (Thomson) who have been huge supporters of equestrian sports and in particular our eventing team.”

Clarke Johnstone was New Zealand’s best at the Rio Olympic Games with his sixth-placed effort. The 35-year-old, who rode at the 2010 World Champs, has been named on Menlo Park, a Brit-bred 12-year-old who joined his stable late last year.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be back on a championship team for the first time since Rio,” said Clarke. “It has always been my biggest goal to represent New Zealand on these teams and I am excited to put my best foot forward at Pratoni.”

Menlo Park had gone from strength to strength this year, and Clarke hoped that would culminate with a solid score to help New Zealand secure a team medal. “I am also looking forward to teaming up with a great bunch of riders and horses. Now the hard work begins.”

Monica Spencer and Artist are just about to board a plan to wing their way to Europe in preparation for the World Champs. The 35-year-old from Taupo was third in the CCI4*-L at Werribee this year and has previously won at Puhinui.

Monica said she knew Artist was special when she bought him as a four-year-old, but to be named on a championship team was surreal. “I am very excited and proud to have the opportunity to represent New Zealand alongside such an incredibly talented group of riders,” she said. “I am very grateful to the people who have believed in us and been part of our journey.”

Rounding out the team is Amanda Pottinger and her 16-year-old New Zealand-bred thoroughbred Just Kidding. “This is what I have been working towards my whole career,” said Amanda. “It is an honour to be given the opportunity to ride for New Zealand at the World Championships. I had a great experience there at the test event so I am looking forward to going back.”

Amanda Pottinger and Just Kidding. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Amanda is following in the footsteps of her mother Tinks who rode at top level for New Zealand and was part of the bronze medal-winning team at the Seoul Olympic Games.
The reserves for the 2022 World Champs are Jesse Campbell aboard Diachello, Samantha Lissington with Ricker Ridge Sooty GNZ, Matthew Grayling on Trudeau, and Dan Jocelyn with Cooley One To Many.

New Zealand has twice won team gold at World Champs – at Stockholm in 1990 and Rome in 1998. The last time the team was on the podium was 2010 in Kentucky when Andrew Nicholson, Sir Mark Todd, Caroline Powell and Clarke Johnstone won bronze. Andrew and Nereo also won an individual bronze that year.

Individually, golds have been won by Blyth Tait and Messiah in 1998, Vaughn Jefferis and Bounce in 1994, and Blyth and Ready Teddy in 1998, the same year that Sir Mark and Broadcast News won silver. The Kiwi eventers were seventh at the last Worlds in Tryon in 2018.

The championships are being held at Pratoni, near Rome, in Italy. The first horse inspection is on Wednesday (September 14) with the dressage running the next two days, followed by the Giuseppe Della Chiesa-designed cross country and the Uliano Vezzani-designed showjumping. The venue has previously hosted the cross country for the 1960 Olympic Games along with the World Champs in 1998 and European championships.

The best three scores from the team will count towards the final score. Great Britain head into the event as the reigning champs.

WHAT: FEI World Championships 2022
WHEN: September 14-25, 2022
WHERE: Pratoni, Italy
MORE INFO: https://pratoni2022.it
LIVESTREAM: ClipMyHorse.TV

The horse details –

Falco – owned by Sue Benson and Tim Price
McClaren – owned by David and Katherine Thomson
Menlo Park – owned by Jean, Rob and Clarke Johnstone
Artist – owned by Monica Spencer
Diachello – owned by Kent Gardner and Jesse Campbell
Just Kidding – owned by the Pottinger Family
Ricker Ridge Sooty GNZ – owned by Pip McCarroll and Samantha Lissington
Trudeau – owned by Winky Foley
Cooley One To Many – owned by Lucy and Sophie Allison, Franki Clapham and Carole King

Monday Video: Walking Through Water With Phillip Dutton

By on Aug 22, 2022 4:00 pm -

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or it’s you’re new to bringing along a greenie, that first time asking a horse to step into water can be a little nerve-wracking. Will they leap in? Start tap dancing around the waters edge? Or maybe they’ll step right in like no big deal?

Whatever your experience level, these reminders from Phillip Dutton, as he walks us through introducing a five-year-old to water for the first time, are some great tips to help set you and your horse up for a positive schooling experience.

Home Run for the Belgians in Arville

By on Aug 22, 2022 2:00 pm -

It was tough to predict who the final winner would be throughout the sixth leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ in Arville (BEL). There was a leaderboard shake-up in each phase but eventually the home side saved the day with some masterful cross-country riding, to finish on a score of 131.2 ahead of Germany on 148.5. Italy finished in third place on 193.00 and Team GB, who had been in first place after the jumping phase but had a number of cross-country faults, had to settle for fourth. This was the second time in a row that Belgium claimed this prestigious Nations Cup prize in Arville.

Team Belgium winners of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ 2022 Arville (BEL): Jarno Verwimp; Julien Wergifosse; Maarten Boon; Lara de Liedekerke-Meier; Kai-Steffan Meier (Chef d’Equipe). (FEI/Libby Law)

This young Belgian team of Lara De Liedekerke-Meier, Jarno Verwimp, Julien Wergifosse and Maarten Boon, look exciting team prospects for the future – all four putting in strong cross-country performances. They were dressage leaders but after some mixed fortunes in the jumping (which took place on the second day), dropped down to third going into the final test; with Great Britain in front and Sweden in second. Yet the story was not over. The cross-country proved to be a tough track which required bold but accurate riding, as well as endurance to cope with the hilly terrain. There were five eliminations and a further eight retirements on the course.

BEL-Julien Wergifosse rides Dwight de St Roch during the second day of Dressage for the CCIO4*-S – FEI Nations Cup Eventing. Concours Complet International D’arville. Friday 19 August 2022. Copyright ©FEI/Libby Law

Lara De Liedekerke-Meier who competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games last year, was best of the Belgians overall. She stormed around the cross-country on her 12 year old Hannoverian gelding Ducati d’Arville, to finish 4th individually in this CCIO4*-S competition. Her final score helping the overall team score significantly.

“It’s fantastic. Last year was a historical win for Belgium but to win the cup again and keep it here, was just fantastic. My horse was amazing. My teammates were a younger squad than before, so I had to be the anchor a little bit.” – Lara De Liedekerke-Meier (BEL)

Speaking on the cross-country track which caused the demise of the British and Swedish teams and many other individual riders, she said: “I had a wonderful round, the cross-country was really tough and hilly. My horse kept running until the end. This was a fantastic day for Belgium and a fantastic day for eventing and I am so proud of my team. Arville was a fantastic edition.”

BEL-Jarno Verwimp rides Kyba van de Jomaheide during the Cross Country for the CCIO4*-S – FEI Nations Cup Eventing. Concours Complet International D’arville. Sunday 21 August 2022. Copyright Photo: Libby Law Photography

Belgium’s Jarno Verwimp was another rider to make his mark and finished 5th individually in the CCIO4*-S on Kyba van de Jomaheide. The 22 year old rider was delighted with his selection and team win:

“To be in the team for a Nations Cup is already a big honour but to take gold with the Belgian team makes it complete.” – Jarno Verwimp (BEL)

The FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ action now moves to Ballindenisk (21-25 September). This will be the eighth and penultimate leg of the Series. Germany continue to lead with 380 points overall.

Full results here

FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ 2022 Calendar & Team standings can be found here

This press release was written by Eleanore Kelly for the FEI.

Erik Duvander 2022 Clinic Availability

By on Aug 22, 2022 1:13 pm -

Erik Duvander, Swedish Olympian, former USEF eventing performance director, and current private coach to top riders such as Ariel Grald, Jennie Brannigan, Phillip Dutton, Caroline Martin, Liz Halliday-Sharp, and Boyd Martin, has availability for two clinic dates in 2022.

Upper-level riders and barns take note, as we’re sure these dates will fill fast. If you are interested in hosting a clinic for September 4-5 or October 20-21, reach out at [email protected] for more information.

Weekend Winners: Event at Archer, Caber Farm H.T., GVRDRC H.T., Huntington Farm H.T., Ocala H.T. II, Waredaca Farm H.T.

By on Aug 22, 2022 10:54 am -

A big weekend for the U.S. event scene. From Vermont to Florida to Wyoming, Eventers are closing out the summer season well!

The Event at Archer and Area IX Championships (Cheyenne, WY): [Website] [Results]

CT-Intermediate-Open: Travis Atkinson and Don Darco (32.5)
HT-Preliminary-Championship: Amy Bowers and Del Mar Belle (35.5)
HT-Preliminary-Open: Sean Worrall and Osito (25.7)
HT-Modified-Championship: Ashley Horowitz and Tiny Dancer (38.5)
HT-Modified-Open: Madeline Backus and Baratheon (36.3)
HT-Training-Championship: Travis Atkinson and Something (24.3)
HT-Training-Open: Grace Lebrecht and Semper Fortis (35.0)
HT-Novice-Championship: Madison Manley and NDR’s Fez (21.0)
HT-Novice-Open: Travis Atkinson and Ironie (21.9)
HT-Beginner Novice-Championship: C’Dale Jore and A Mariner (27.4)
HT-Beginner Novice-Open: Madeline Backus and Grand Lilly (23.8)
HT-Starter-Championship: Wendy Williams and P.S. King of Hearts (31.7)
HT-Starter-JR: Grace Damelio and Ashes West (29.0)
HT-Starter-Open: Natalie Ellis and Maggie Belle (27.0)

Caber Farm H.T. (Onalaska, WA): [Website] [Results]

Advanced/Intermediate: Sophia Click and Quidproquo (61.9)
Open Intermediate: Kerry Groot and Super Nova (71.0)
Open Preliminary A: Kathryn Nichwander and Fool’s Gold (38.5)
Open Preliminary B: Reese Blinks and I’M Jaguar (31.7)
Jr. Training: Nicole Manning and Redfield Quidam Doty (27.1)
Sr. Open Training A: Karen O’Neal and Cooley Sligo (28.8)
Sr. Open Training B: Bryce Meeker and Centerfield Pixel Star (26.9)
Jr. Novice: Nora Bissonnette and Royce the Rolls of Ponies (38.4)
Sr. Open Novice A: Mary Burke and Valentino (25.8)
Sr. Open Novice B: Jenni Turla and Gingersnap (28.0)
Sr. Open Novice C: Natallya Hyldahl and Crypto Bonn (37.1)
Sr. Open Novice D: Jenna Lounsbery and Stewart (23.9)
Jr. Beg. Novice: Nicole Manning and Sunday Blues “Steve” (36.2)
Sr. Open Beg. Novice A: Brooke Phillips and Tiramisu BEC (26.9)
Sr. Open Beg. Novice B: Brianna Spencer and Gaia (30.3)
Sr. Open Beg. Novice C: Elizabeth Hoffmann and EMMA (26.3)
Starter: Karen O’Neal and Limitless P (19.7)

Genesee Valley Riding & Driving Club H.T. (Geneseo, NY): [Website] [Results]

Modified: Carol Kozlowski and Welbourne (47.4)
Training: Peytyn Geer and Dublin Red (39.6)
Novice A: Carol Kozlowski and Kieran (25.6)
Novice B: Jennifer Treacy and Bene (30.6)
Beginner Novice A: Kimberly Crane and Princess Buttercup (27.7)
Beginner Novice B: Emilija Zygelyte and Sydney (34.0)
Beginner Novice C: Kaitlyn Gallagher and Sailin Shoes (27.1)
Future Event Horse – Two Year Old: Kenneth Estes and JoGlenn Scout (65.400)
Future Event Horse – Three Year Old: Sarah Stewart and Ganache (75.400)
Future Event Horse – Four Year Old: Alice Knoll and Paint the Stars (73.600)
Future Event Horse – Yearling: Carmen Fagnani and Wicked Americano IF (69.750)
Starter A: Ryan Lefkowitz and Mastermind ES (32.7)
Starter B: Bailey Kudla-Williams and Seale (31.3)
Starter C: Karen Kelley and Full Gallop’s King Red (22.7)
Starter D: Genevieve Hay and Knight smoke (32.0)

Huntington Farm H.T. (South Strafford, VT): [Website] [Results]

Open Preliminary: Stephanie Nan Sills and Salt (38.0)
Junior Training: Lyman Ordway and SRF Reverie (41.3)
Open Training A: Lisa Niccolai and KC’s Celtic Kharacter (25.3)
Open Training B: Kate Day and Fortissimo (29.2)
Junior Novice: Max van der Schoot and Playing With Quarters (Andy) (32.8)
Open Novice A: Laura Madalena Pitassi and Jagermeister (25.8)
Open Novice B: Anna Loschiavo and Peaddar (26.7)
Junior Beginner Novice: Rory Cashman and Sandy Prince (40.6)
Open Beginner Novice: Christine Williams and Gigi (27.9)

Ocala Summer H.T. II (Ocala, FL): [Website] [Results]

Advanced/Intermediate: Lexi Scovil and Chico’s Man VDF Z (37.0)
Intermediate/Preliminary: Karl Slezak and Hot Bobo (30.2)
Open Intermediate: Joe Meyer and Harbin (35.8)
Open Preliminary A: Benjamin Noonan and First Class (25.7)
Open Preliminary B: Elisa Wallace and Sharp Decision (30.7)
Preliminary Rider: Tawnie Anderson and Gorgeous In Grey (38.3)
Modified – Open: Alexander O’Neal and FE Thunderstruck (31.8)
Modified – Rider: Juliana Cassar and Cheranimo (31.7)
Open Training: Katie Malensek and MRF Qwlkstep (25.0)
Training Rider: Tracey Corey and Byrnwyck West (26.9)
Novice Rider: Danica Rowlett and Rudianos (22.5)
Open Novice A: Benjamin Noonan and Kay-O (25.6)
Open Novice B: Zachary Brandt and Larcinio Z (25.6)

Waredaca Farm H.T. (Gaithersburg, MD): [Website] [Results]

Open Preliminary: Kirsten Schuitema and One Sly Fox (36.2)
Modified A: Diego Farje and Carnaby (34.7)
Modified B: Sharon White and Jaguar Duende (22.6)
Open Modified – Jackpot: Martin Douzant and Silver Ruby (25.7)
Open Training: Meghan O’Donoghue and PS Duty Calls (22.9)
Open Training – Jackpot: Kendyl Tracy and HSH Golden Boy (24.7)
Training Rider A: Sylvia Byars and CSF Dassett Decoy (34.8)
Training Rider B: Kelly Coile and D.A. Got Game (36.1)
Novice Rider A: Kate Wood and Prinz S.W. (20.0)
Novice Rider B: Lillian Huey and Zodiac Matador (30.9)
Novice Rider C: Jamie Merrill and Addi (24.2)
Open Novice A: Krissy Smith Shellenberger and Quantum K (21.9)
Open Novice B: Michael Pendleton and Clive Christian (27.5)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Haley Miller and He’s True Brew (29.7)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Luba Abrams and Huey (32.5)
Open Beginner Novice: Savannah Fulton and DB Cooper (26.5)
Young Event Horse – Four Year Old: Michael Pendleton and King Siegfred (77.550)
Young Event Horse – Five Year Old: Michael Pendleton and A-Debussy Royale (86.700)

Monday News & Notes from FutureTrack

By on Aug 22, 2022 7:17 am -

It’s been a huge year for top-level retirements, but I’m not sure any of us were prepared to bid farewell to the fierce and feisty legend that is Bolytair B, who will hang up his horseshoes after jumping successfully around several of the world’s biggest tracks with Dom Schramm in the irons. Kudos to Dom, though, for making a sage call for his horse, and for sharing the words of wisdom that “there’s no trophy for squeezing the last drop out of a horse”. That’s something we could all do with remembering.

National Holiday: It’s National Pamela Day. All hail our lord and saviour, Ms Anderson.

US Weekend Action:

The Event at Archer and Area IX Championships (Cheyenne, WY): [Website] [Results]

Caber Farm H.T. (Onalaska, WA): [Website] [Results]

Genesee Valley Riding & Driving Club H.T. (Geneseo, NY): [Website] [Results]

Huntington Farm H.T. (South Strafford, VT): [Website] [Results]

Ocala Summer H.T. II (Ocala, FL): [Website] [Results]

Waredaca Farm H.T. (Gaithersburg, MD): [Website] [Results]

UK Weekend Results:

Blindley Heath: [Results]

Frickley Park International Horse Trials and Area Festival: [Results]

Solihull (2): [Results]

Global Eventing Round-up:

It’s been a double-dip weekend of Nations Cup action, with legs in both Canada and Belgium over the last couple of days. Here’s some highlights from each:

FEI Eventing Nations Cup CCIO4*-S + International H.T. (Bromont, Canada): [Website] [Results] [EN’s Coverage]

 

 

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Team USA took top honours in the three-team competition in Bromont, while Liz Halliday-Sharp and Miks Master C were victorious on the individual leaderboard after a seriously tough day of cross-country.

 

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FEI Eventing Nations Cup CCIO4*-S + International H.T. (Arville, Belgium): [Results]

Meanwhile, over in Belgium, the home team was successful in both the Nations Cup competition and on the individual leaderboard: they beat Germany by an impressive margin of 17.3 penalties, while Italy took third place. Tine Magnus became the Belgian National Champion after winning the CCIO4*-S with Champagne Pia Z, who climbed from 13th after dressage after adding just 5.6 time penalties across the country and tipping a rail in showjumping – such was the intensity and influence of this competition. The top six placings went to Belgian riders, with Manon Minner taking second aboard Cool Dancer and Laura Loge finishing the weekend in third with Absolut Allegro. Just two of the 59 competitors went clear inside the time: fourth-placed Lara de Liedekerke-Meier, who’s based at Arville, managed it with Ducati d’Arville, as did Germany’s Anna-Katarina Vogel and DSP Quintana P, who finished seventh.

Your Morning Reading List:

When it comes to producing young horses for future success and longevity in the sport, there’s no one set way to do things. Some riders prefer to take all the pressure off in the formative years, while others factor in plenty of outings to help their baby horses realise that leaving the farm is no big deal, and I always find it fascinating to dive into the philosophies behind each decision — and all the other decisions that go into plotting out an education. In this piece, Tamie Smith goes through her general plan for hitting the ground running with a youngster — and how that worked for some of the horses who would go on to be stars of her stable. [How to train your dragon — erm, event horse]

We’re calling this one as a member of the 2035 British Pony Europeans team right now. Dressage supremo Charlotte Dujardin has announced that she’s pregnant with her first child, and is looking forward to welcoming her daughter to the world early next year. No word yet on whether the little one has been practicing the flying change aids in the womb. [Talk about a performance pedigree]

If you’ve had a bad day out eventing, it can be incredibly hard to put that aside on your next trip out. That’s particularly true if you’re a one-horse rider, because you might have weeks between competitions to dwell on what went wrong — but it can affect the pros, too, who need to be able to compartmentalise and get straight on the next horse with an unblemished frame of mind. In any case, learning to take control of your own thoughts will lead to some of the biggest gains you’ll experience as a rider. [Here’s how to get started]

The FutureTrack Follow:

 

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I’m really enjoying following the journey of Sarah Clark, who’s made the long trip over from Australia to tackle her first Burghley with five-star partner LV Balou Jeanz. Give her a follow for some fascinating insights into her biggest adventure yet.

Morning Viewing:

Rewind to 1991 with this vintage footage of Mr Stickability tackling Blenheim’s CCI4*-L aboard Park Grove.

 

Sunday Links

By on Aug 21, 2022 12:03 am -

Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach. Photo by Abby Powell.

Just here today on Sunday to say we are super proud of our fellow EN girl Ema Klugman for kicking butt this weekend as the only finishing member of the Australian Team at the CCIO-4* Nations Cup up in Bromont. Ema and her super cool mare Bronte Beach finished in 5th place with just a few time penalties added to their dressage score. Brains and skills!! Go Ema!

U.S. Weekend Preview

The Event at Archer and Area IX Championships (Cheyenne, WY): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Caber Farm H.T. (Onalaska, WA): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Genesee Valley Riding & Driving Club H.T. (Geneseo, NY): [Website] [Entry Status] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Huntington Farm H.T. (South Strafford, VT): [Website] [Entry Status] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Ocala Summer H.T. II (Ocala, FL): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Waredaca Farm H.T. (Gaithersburg, MD): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Major International Events

FEI Eventing Nations Cup CCIO4*-S + International H.T. (Bromont, Canada): [Website] [Results]

Sunday Links:

Teaching Horses True Self Carriage & The Importance of Strengthening the Thoracic Sling

From 4* Eventing to Green Incentive Championship Hunters

All About Feeding Horses Alfalfa

Blown Up By Petrol Covered Bonfire, Begins Riding Career

Grazing with a Bridle: The Controversy Continues

 

Just some more Ema fandom:

Team USA Triumphs at FEI Nations Cup at Bromont; Liz Halliday-Sharp Takes Individual Win

By on Aug 20, 2022 8:38 pm -

Photo by Amber Heintzberger.

Team USA secured the win with three clear cross country rounds today at the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ at the 2022 Bromont CCI-S Horse Trials in Quebec, Canada.

Trailblazer Lillian Heard laid down a clear and fast round riding the 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding Dasset Olympus (Lancelot x Cushlamochree), adding just 1.2 time faults to the overall team score. Andrew McConnon riding his and Caroline Martin and Jeanne Shigo’s 10-year-old Warmblood gelding Ferrie’s Cello (Chello III VDL x Karelza) and Liz Halliday-Sharp riding Deborah Palmer and Ocala Horse Properties LLC’s 10-year-old Swedish Warmblood gelding Miks Master C (Mighty Magic x Qui Luma CBF) both subsequently went double clear and clinched the top placing for the team on a score of 138.6001.

“Going first worked out fine, my horse doesn’t always do what other horses do, so not knowing is fine; he did the beginning part well but the waters were a little sticky – they weren’t unfair, but they were almost five-star-esque,” she said. “My horse fought hard to stay between the flags. The jumps were big and technical; sometimes at the four-star you’ll get one or the other, and they were both … but I think it’s good, if you do that hard of a question, you go on and the next one’s not that hard.”

Colleen Loach and Vermont. Photo by Amber Heintzberger.

The host country Canada finished second overall, with Colleen Loach and Kendal Lehari posting double clear rounds and Jessica Phoenix finishing just outside the time allowed. Jamie Kellock parted ways with Summer Bay, but with four riders the team was able to drop her score to finish on a final score of 158.3002.

Team Australia finished third with a whopping 2050.3003 penalties. Yesterday Dom Schramm withdrew his wife Jimmie’s mare Eclaire after dressage, and today Ryan Wood withdrew before cross country after suffering from stomach flu. He was still game enough to cheer on his new bride Lillian Heard from the sidelines, but not up to the task of riding around the challenging four-star course. That left Ema Klugman as the last Australian standing, and did her country proud with a clear round and just 1.6 time faults riding Bronte Beach Z.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Miks Master C. Photo by Amber Heintzberger.

In the CCI4*-S division, Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp held on to the overall lead riding Miks Master C, finishing on a final score of 37.6. Colleen Loach finished second overall on Vermont, a, 18.2h Hanoverian gelding by Van Helsing out of a Heraldik mare (32.1) and third with FE Golden Eye (Goldfever x Cascade). Halliday-Sharp also won the CCI3*-S riding Cooley Nutcracker. She was also competing Cooley HHS Calmaria in the four-star, but pulled up on cross country after the mare took a bad step while galloping and was taken for examination by the veterinarian.

“My three-star horse was awesome, he is ready for advanced now, which is exciting. Miks Master C was super, I tried to have an organized round but still quick enough, because he was very strong with me at Rebecca Farm. I’m thinking of the big picture, which is a five-star next year and hopefully Boekelo this year, so I was thinking about the big picture and still wanted to take the win, so I’m glad it worked out that way. The course was tough, it was perfect,” she said.

Andrew McConnon, who was competing in his first Nations Cup, also said this was his first trip to Bromont. “I’m thrilled to be on the team and make the trip up, and I really think it did the horse well to come up here,” he said. “He was good in the dressage; there are a couple of things I need to improve. He show jumped well and tried hard, and the cross-country was great. I’m planning to go to Morven and do the four-star long, and this was an incredible prep for that. I think the terrain and the jumps were tough, he had to work in a couple of places, but I think he’s more educated because of it.”

Colleen Rutledge, who first competed on a Nations Cup team at Aachen with Covert Rights in 2015, but didn’t complete the event due to a fall in the water, was happy to cross the finish flags today. She had a runout at the corner coming out of the second water today, where she said she rode too aggressively, but credits her horse with getting her out of the trouble she got them into. “It’s super exciting, this is only my second Nations Cup Team and it’s so cool competing with your teammates; it gives you a taste and just makes me want to do more.”

The course was big and technical, and the terrain at Bromont is hilly. The combination of all three factors caught out a number of horses and riders who were not up for the challenge today. There were falls in every CCI division, and three riders are currently in hospital for observation.

This was the first year that Bromont hosted an FEI Nations Cup™ competition and competitors and organizers alike are eager to keep the competition going into the future. Wyatt Westover, a parliamentary assistant who was attending the event from the House of Commons, said, “It’s certainly huge, I know they want to expand even more and the venue is one-of-a-kind in the area, really. We’re privileged to have it here.”

FEI Eventing Nations Cup CCIO4*-S + International H.T. (Bromont, Canada): [Website] [Scoring]

CCI4*-S Final Top 10:

CCI3*-S Final Top 10:

CCI3*-S U25 Final:

CCI2*-S Final: