Classic Eventing Nation

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: 8 Teflon-Coated Connemaras

By on Nov 22, 2024 2:09 pm -

Have you checked out the new-and-improved Sport Horse Nation lately? EN’s longtime classifieds sister site recently received a big makeover to help make it the best eventers-only matchmaking service in the land. Over 230 listings are now live … check it out today!

As tough as they are brave and compact, Connemaras are the ultimate amateur-friendly eventing partner. Fun fact: They are Ireland’s only native breed, hailing from the region of Western Ireland known as Connemara.

According to the American Connemara Pony Society: “Legend has it that when the Spanish Armada sank off the Connemara coast in the 16th Century, the horses swam to shore and bred with the native ponies running wild in the mountains. They learned to live on the tough vegetation and survive the hardships of their habitat, as a misplaced step could send a pony crashing to its death.”

So, the modern cross country course? NBD.

Here are eight we spotted on Sport Horse Nation, hailing from coast to coast stateside and beyond!

 

Connemara Training Packer

  • Adjectives: Confidence, Packer, Uncomplicated
  • Year Born: 2016
  • Height: 15.2
  • Breed: Connemara
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Training
  • Location: Aiken, SC, USA

SLINGER – Stunning Pinto Connemara X Warmblood

  • Year Born: 2022
  • Height: 15.2
  • Breed: Connemara x Warmblood
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Prospect
  • Location: Ocala, FL, USA

PS Court Favor (Finley) Homebred Connemara X

  • Year Born: 2021
  • Height: 15.1
  • Breed: Connemara x TB
  • Gender: Mare
  • Eventing Competition Level: Prospect
  • Location: Ocala, FL, USA

Young Connemara cross rides like a big horse with big goals

  • Adjectives: Amateur-friendly, Comfortable, Fun!
  • Year Born: 2018
  • Height: 15.1
  • Breed: Connemara X Trakehner
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Training
  • Location: Dixon, CA, USA

AA/Junior UNICORN ALERT

  • Adjectives: Safe, Fun, Unicorn
  • Year Born: 2019
  • Height: 16
  • Breed: Connemara x Thoroughred
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Novice (US)
  • Location: Vashon, WA, USA

COULEE: 6 yr old Connemara/TB Gelding

  • Year Born: 2018
  • Height: 15.3
  • Breed: Connemara, Thoroughbred
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Training
  • Location: Missoula, MT, USA

Top Class Connemara Gelding

  • Adjectives: Talented, Fun, Brave
  • Year Born: 2016
  • Height: 15.2
  • Breed: Connemara
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Novice (US)
  • Location: Co. Carlow, Ireland

Daddy’s Girl Go Bragh – Fun Eventing Mare!

  • Year Born: 2018
  • Height: 15.3
  • Breed: Connemara, Thoroughbred
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Training
  • Location: Hanover, PA, USA

FEI Releases New Equine Online Reporting Hub + Other Welfare Measures, but What of the Inquiries They Already Have?

By on Nov 22, 2024 9:30 am -

The FEI, at its annual General Assembly in Abu Dhabi, recently unveiled significant updates to its Equine Welfare Strategy Action Plan, focusing on safeguarding the well-being of equine athletes across all disciplines. A quick summary of the updates can be found below or in greater detail here.

1. Online Welfare Reporting Tool:

A new Welfare Hub has been launched, centralizing tools for injury tracking, lifecycle data, and reporting horse welfare concerns. Stakeholders, including riders, officials, and fans, can now confidentially report welfare issues online.

2. Optional Spurs for All Disciplines:

Spurs are no longer mandatory in any FEI discipline, allowing riders to adapt their equipment choices based on the needs and sensitivities of their horses.

3. Noseband Measuring Device:

The FEI is developing a standardized noseband measurement tool and accompanying protocols to ensure correct tack use. This initiative is aimed at enhancing horse comfort and addressing concerns over overly tight nosebands. the FEI Measuring Tool will begin use gradually at FEI events in the first part of 2025.

4. Improved Tack and Equipment Guidelines:

A dedicated Tack App is being refined to provide up-to-date clarity on approved bits and other equipment. Reviews are planned annually to ensure transparency and accessibility for riders and teams.

5. Enhanced Rules on Fitness to Compete:

Veterinary delegates will soon have expanded authority to check any part of a horse’s body during competitions, not just legs, to ensure horses are fit and sound for sport. Workshops in 2025 will address these updates in detail.

6. Out-of-Competition Testing:

A robust testing program aims to enhance integrity and ensure health issues aren’t masked outside of competition settings. Details were presented at the Assembly for implementation across disciplines.

But Questions Remain

What’s starkly missing from the welfare discussion, however, is a clear and transparent operating procedure for how reports are handled, nor is there an answer to the status of the cases currently open for investigation under this category. A review of public case records with the FEI reveals no open investigation associated with a suspension against riders like Andrew McConnon, who came under fire several weeks ago after videos surfaced of an individual alleged to be Andrew severely abusing two different horses. There is currently an Open Investigation of a dressage rider listed in the Case Status Tables, however, which raises more questions as to the investigation of riders like Andrew, which the FEI has confirmed is an ongoing one but has also confirmed is not currently associated with a suspension.

EN has subsequently followed up with the applicable governing bodies in the weeks since our initial story about Andrew and incident reporting as a whole. We’ve received little to no response, with the FEI continuing to decline to comment on an active investigation as well as declining to answer our questions regarding how incident reports are handled and what time frame can be anticipated.

The most we have been able to obtain from the FEI in terms of updates is the following quote, received on November 22, 2024:

“Andrew Mc Connon is currently not suspended by the FEI, which is why he is not listed on the Case Status Tables. The FEI is still investigating the matter and can therefore not provide any further information or comments at this point in time.”

The USEA, which had indicated that it could have the power to suspend a member, but confirmed it did not have a precedent to follow in this case, has also made no definitive moves in this specific instance, citing the fact that they were still awaiting further information from USEF and the FEI regarding the investigation. US Equestrian had previously denied the issue jurisdiction, due to the incident not occurring at a USEF-licensed competition (this rule is set to expand to allow incident reports for things that occur on private property, but is effective from December 1, 2024 only).

These interactions leave stakeholders and observers feeling left in the dark. As we stated before, it’s a larger problem than one person, one video, one comment — these incidents are all symptomatic of a system that fails at many turns to protect its most valuable members: the horses. When not all cases are treated with equal expediency, when there is a clear lack of transparency in how reports are handled and passed up the chain, it becomes easy to lose trust.

We don’t have the perfect solution, and while we appreciate that more initiatives are being set out for equine welfare, we nonetheless implore our governing bodies to show, through actions, that they are safeguarding our horses. We implore them — and the stakeholders who also have a voice — to realize that what the current process is is simply not sufficient. We worry that the reporting floodgates will open at the end of the year, with little improvement to processes and transparencies.

We will continue to follow up on the investigations that are active and will also lobby for a greater level of transparency when it comes to reporting and open investigations, and will provide updates here on EN as they are made available to us.

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on Nov 22, 2024 12:01 am -

We’re leading off this mornings news round-up with some thoughts from Phillip Dutton, who shared some reflections on a tough season and the future of the sport. We’ll copy in his writing below, or you can also view and discuss it on the embedded post above.

“With the 2024 eventing season coming to a close, I feel it has been a great year for our sport in many respects with some incredible performances at the CCI5*s throughout the world and with the showcasing of the sport at the Paris Olympics.⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
The downside and tragic events of the year were two high-profile riders having cross-country falls. Namely, the death of Georgie Campbell and the life-changing accident of Liz Halliday at the AEC competition in Lexington, KY.⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
Our sport has come a long way in regard to safety and horse welfare. Frangible pins have definitely prevented falls, and in doing so, have prevented major injuries to both horse and rider – and probably, in some cases, death. Course design and construction have also played an important part as well. It is in everyone’s best interest to embrace this new technology to further improve the safety of the sport. ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
Both Georgie and Liz’s falls were at jumps without frangible pins. It is probably not practical yet to have every fence frangible, but as riders, we should be encouraging organizers and designers to aim for this. Other sports more dangerous than ours have made huge leaps in the safety area – Formula One and the NFL come to mind. Having the old adage that horses won’t learn if the fences come down is rubbish! If a horse needs to run into a solid fence to back off, you probably shouldn’t be riding him. ⁣⁣
⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
On the other side of safety, riders have to make sure they have the right skills and their horses the right education before setting out on course. Aggressive riding definitely plays a part in keeping a horse confident on cross country. More importantly though, is being able to approach each cross-country jump with the required speed, line and take off distance on a forward-thinking horse. After watching some of the long-format events lately, it’s clear to me that many riders lack those skills and instead are relying just on speed and aggression and having a brave, genuine horse.⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

As riders, we have to make split-second decisions, and it is not always going to be the right decision. That is sport and life. However, embracing improvements to jump design, frangible devices in future courses and riders who have a good grasp, understanding and the skills needed to ride safely at each jump will hopefully keep a bright future for our sport.⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣”

Valuable thoughts, and the source of much discussion on social media now. So we want to know: What are your thoughts on Phillip’s post and the state of eventing at large? We’d love if you shared your thoughts with us; you can do so in the comments of this post, on social media, or by emailing us at [email protected].

U.S. Weekend Preview

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News & Reading

Sea of Clouds, the remarkable off-track Thoroughbred turned event horse, is in the spotlight in Practical Horseman’s latest feature. This off-the-track star has found success in his second career, showcasing the versatility and athleticism of Thoroughbreds in sport. From his beginnings on the racetrack to his achievements in eventing, “Socs” proves that every horse has the potential to shine. Read up on this pair here.

The USEA has announced the 12 talented young riders selected for the 2024-2025 EA21 National Camp. These riders were chosen from the EA21 Regional Clinics and will train under top coaches at the iconic Barnstaple South in Ocala, Florida. This program aims to nurture the next generation of eventing talent, focusing on horsemanship, teamwork, and skill development. Head to the announcement here to meet the rising stars shaping the future of the sport.

Ed and Leanne Barnett have dedicated nearly four decades to volunteering in eventing, and their story is a testament to the heart and soul of the sport. From fence judging to helping organize events, their tireless efforts have supported countless competitions and riders over the years. Learn more about the Barnetts’ incredible commitment to the eventing community here.

Jessica Harrington’s journey from three-day eventing to becoming a top Thoroughbred trainer is nothing short of extraordinary. In a feature by Paulick Report, Harrington shares her experiences transitioning from the cross-country course to the racetrack, where she’s trained champions like Alpha Centauri and Sizing John. Her story highlights the determination and adaptability that define equestrian success. Check out the full article to explore her inspiring career across equestrian disciplines.

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

Catch up on all the latest happenings at Stable View, and view the full calendar of activities to plan your next trip to Aiken.

Video Break

Some strong Saddle Club vibes out of the Brannigan camp…

Hyperion Stud U25 Award: U25 Program Puts Community First, Competition Second at VHC Eventing

By on Nov 21, 2024 9:30 am -

The U25 CCI2*-L Podium at VHC Eventing. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott.

As the U25 competitors at VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square, stepped up to the  podium, I couldn’t help but think about what other podiums might be in their future. Would we one day see these same smiling faces at a press conference under the chandeliers of the media room at the Kentucky Horse Park? If that day comes to pass, those who attended VHC Eventing this fall can say that they’ve been watching these riders develop from the start. 

Sponsored by Hyperion Stud and organized by Area II Young Rider Coordinator Chris Donovan, Show Organizer Joanie Morris, and President of the Virginia Horse Center Foundation, Roxanne Booth, the U25 award recognizes competitors under the age of 25 as they grind their way to the top of the sport. When these young riders are one-day navigating the uncertainty of making a living as a professional eventer, they’ll have a close-knit community of peers to lean on, thanks to the U25 program.

The program assigned every rider under the age of 25 who was competing in an FEI division to a team. Ideally grouped by Area, there were also scramble teams as needed. Throughout the weekend these competitors were invited to attend select social events to build connections and a sense of community among the riders. 

“I firmly believe they are the future of the sport, whether they go on to be on a Pan-American team or become future trainers,” Chris said. “Helping develop and build that camaraderie between them is so important, which is why we create U25 teams and encourage them to get to know each other and build a network to support them.”

The Virginia Horse Center has always been a hub of activity for some of the biggest professionals in Area II and beyond. Hawk-eyed fans will spot names like Phillip Dutton, Ema Klugman, Tim Bourke, and Sharon White listed among the scores. Up-and-coming riders can take advantage of this network of elite eventers thanks to the efforts of the U25 program. 

“We have a lot of upper level riders who are here. These kids have an opportunity to go on to become grooms or working students, and they can make those connections while they’re here, right?” Chris said.

For Emeline Gilbert, the U25 competition added to an already exciting weekend. Emeline came in third overall in the CCI2*-S, thereby winning the division among U25 riders, with Albano (Arctic x Lucy May, by Lesotho), owned by Robert Meyerhoff. With dreams of becoming a professional, she worked for Bobby Meyerhoff for eight years and recently started working for Sharon White, who won the CCI2*-L division with Arden Augustus. Emeline also competed her own EWSZ Mozart (Magnum FFT x Ella Cinder, by Laiken) in the CCI3*-L division. 

Emeline Gilbert and Albano. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott.

“I was lucky enough to have Albano finish third overall in the CCI2*-S, and so he was top of the U25. That was pretty special to have that bit of extra reward. And then my three-star horse, EWSZ Mozart– I was extremely happy with him. It was nice that he was able to place  second in the U25,” Gilbert said. “I think the U25 groups create a bit of camaraderie with the other riders. One of my good friends, Audrey Ogan, was first in the CCI3*-S for the U25 division. So it’s really nice to see that come through for her as well.”

In both of her divisions, Emeline was competing against five-star eventers, including her new boss, Sharon White, as well as Tim Bourke, Valerie Pride, and Allison Springer. She says that the U25 program allows her to compare herself against her peers, instead of looking at the overall division. 

“The U25 creates a bit of a separation from the big open FEI division that you’re in. So even if you don’t stack up well against the big group of professionals, there is the U25 which is comparing you more with your generation,” Emeline said. “So I think it’s nice to have the recognition on that side of things and see how you’re comparing that way. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you finish in the top 20 and, yeah, that’s good, but you’re not in the numbers as much because the FEI divisions can be so big and there’s so many professionals in them. I think it’s nice that they have the U25 to separate that a little bit and give you the extra boost of like, ‘Hey, you are doing a good job because you compare well with your age group.’ Plus, that’s going to be the next generation of professionals. So I think it definitely makes you more competitive that way, too.”

VHC Eventing wasn’t Emeline’s first introduction to the U25 program. She took part in the Bromont Rising Program in 2023. “I definitely think U25 has brought me some connections. At Bromont Rising, I got to meet Bettina Hoy and work with her,” Emeline said. ”I think that obviously creates a bit of connection there, and you can use them in the future. And it’s not just like reaching out to a professional that you’ve never met before, which can definitely be a little intimidating. I think it’s nice to have someone who’s laid eyes on you and your horses before. If you’re at a show, you can reach out to them, because they do know you’re riding a little bit. I think that’s always useful to kind of have those connections.”

This month marked Emeline’s first time taking part in the U25 program at the Virginia Horse Center. “I think the U25 offered there is definitely nice. Like I said, it’s just helpful to have a bit of recognition and competition within your age group. I think they do a really good job recognizing that younger group of talent,” Emeline said.

Riding her own Redfield Champion (Diarado x Calinka, by Contendro I), Katherine Maroko also placed third overall in the CCI2*-L division, winning the U25 CCI2*-L on a score of 35.6. Katherine splits her time between going to college and working as head groom for Hannah Sue Hollberg, who came to the event to cheer her on.

“I think that the U25 program is always really interesting to see at events, because I know that a lot of the coordinators always work really hard to have various events throughout the weekend where the different competitors are able to meet each other and create a sense of community,” Katherine said. “It’s all really exciting to be able to see other people more often that we don’t always get to see because we’re all spread out, and then have that sense of community when you win something with a team at the end. Throughout the event, I was able to get to meet some people that I haven’t really had the chance to talk to before. So that was a fun part of the weekend.”

As head groom for a five-star eventer, Katherine makes a lot of connections as she travels for various events with Hannah Sue. But she says that the U25 programs help take those connections to the next level. “With the U25 programs, we definitely interact with a lot of the same people. I’m able to make connections better and through the U25 I’m able to get to know people that usually I would only see in passing,” she said.

Katherine Maroko and Redfield Champion. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott.

While not to the same degree as compared to Areas in the middle of the country, Area II is relatively spread out. Unless young riders are in a program with a five-star eventer, they may not have the opportunity to build a community and make connections without the support of a program like U25. Katherine knows firsthand just how much of a difference programs like this one can make.

“All the work that Chris Donovan and everyone else puts into these types of programs to make sure that every time we have a bigger event in our area, we’re able to have all these socials to help create this community. I’ve seen so many close-knit groups of friends over the years that have been founded from these types of programs. I think it’s really wonderful the work that gets put into creating that community,” Katherine said. 

Previously the sponsor of an award to the top-placed 6- or 7-year-old horse at VHC Eventing in May 2024, Hyperion Stud is once again supporting the future of eventing this November by sponsoring the U25 award. Vicky Castegren, founder of Hyperion Stud, knows how important it is to develop high caliber riders capable of partnering with the quality of horse that she breeds, as well as developing their own young horses.  

“We are so proud to partner with VHC Eventing to present the U25 Award. It is very exciting to see how hard these young riders work to achieve their goals in the sport, and it’s so important to recognize that hard work with awards like this,” Vicky said. “These riders are the future of our sport and it’s wonderful to see these rising talents developing their horses. I am sure we will see them on the podium one day, representing the United States internationally, and we will know it started right here in Virginia!”

Revisit more from VHC Eventing — click here!

Thursday News & Notes

By on Nov 21, 2024 12:01 am -

Cycle4Caroline (C4C) is officially underway, honoring the life and legacy of Caroline March, the British event rider and sister of Piggy March who passed away last year. The 1,100km charity ride began yesterday at Blair Castle in Scotland and will culminate at The Savoy Hotel in London on November 30. Riders and supporters are raising funds for the British Eventing Support Trust and Spinal Research, two causes close to Caroline’s heart after her 2022 eventing accident. Yesterday’s kickoff saw one Ian Stark and Wills Oakden leading the pack of cyclists early on, and the group made stops at hallmark locations like Scone Palace, the forthcoming newest UK 4*-L on the fixtures calendar, and finishing the day with a visit to Lucinda Russell’s racing yard and the Grand National winner Corach Gambler.

You can keep track of the group on route here. The route itself can be viewed here. Most importantly, if you’re able to donate, you can do so here — at the time of writing, donations had surpassed £63,000.

Here are some more scenes from day one — and be sure to follow along with @Cycle4Caroline24 on social media for updates from day two and beyond.

U.S. Weekend Preview

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News & Reading

The latest Cuckson Report examines the FEI’s ongoing efforts to retain equestrian sport’s social license amid growing public scrutiny. To navigate the welfare element of horse sports, the FEI is investing in transparency, education, and outreach to address criticism and ensure the future of horse sports. Head to Horse Sport‘s report for more out of the FEI General Assembly.

Join the eventing community in paying tribute to Sara Kozumplik’s As You Like It in the USEA’s In Memoriam piece about one incredibly special horse. Read it here.

Yellowstone fans, take note: the popular show recently featured a scene where a character administers Banamine via intramuscular injection—a practice veterinarians caution against. The Chronicle of the Horse explores the risks of this method, including potential complications like Clostridial myositis, a life-threatening condition caused by bacterial infection. While dramatic for TV, this scene underscores the importance of consulting a vet for proper medication administration. Check out the full article for expert insights on equine safety and why IM injections of Banamine are best avoided.

Proper recovery after exercise is key to keeping your horse healthy and performing at their best. The FEI, in collaboration with Cavalor, shares expert tips on optimizing equine recovery, from nutrition to rest and beyond. Whether it’s balancing their diet or providing adequate downtime, these strategies can make a big difference. Check out the full article here.

Don’t miss an exclusive interview with world #3 rider Ros Canter (GBR), who enjoyed a banner year complete with an Olympic gold medal, a CCI5* win, and a stable full of special horses. She sits down with Horse & Hound in this feature.

Video Break

View more about Cycle4Caroline:

#Supergroom Paige Ansaldi + Top Grooming Tips from EQYss

By on Nov 20, 2024 12:30 pm -

We love celebrating and learning about the #SuperGrooms who make this sport go around — quite literally! — so we’re on a mission to interview as many grooms as we can to learn about their journeys. Catch up on the other interviews from this series here and nominate a #SuperGroom of your own by emailing [email protected]! Today, we’ll hear from Paige Ansaldi.

Allison Springer hugs her longtime groom, Paige Ansaldi, on finding out she’d won Bromont’s 4*-L. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Paige has groomed for most of her life, even while going to college at the University of Maryland. After she graduated, she wanted to give something other than horses a try, so she wanted to put her criminology and criminal justice degree to use.

“During the initiation process of potentially getting the job, I always said that if I don’t get this, I’m going to go back to grooming,” she says. Around the same time that she found out she didn’t get the job, Allison Springer posted about needing a new groom.

Paige Ansaldi and Vandyke. Photo courtesy of Allison Springer Eventing.

“The stars kind of aligned, and I’ve always been a fan of Allison’s,” she says. It’s a full circle for her 12-year-old self. “I’ve always appreciated her philosophy for training horses and making sure they have a solid foundation.”

Paige has been with Allison for a little over a year and has enjoyed having multiple horses to groom for at the FEI levels. Being able to learn from Allison while she teaches and rides is the cherry on top. “You really never stop learning here.”

Another perk to working with Allison is that Paige gets to use EQyss products on all the horses. “The previous rider I had worked for was also sponsored by them, so when I saw that she was sponsored I was pretty psyched about it because they have some great products!”

That being said, Paige has a few EQyss grooming tips and tricks to share with EN readers…

Tip #1: Shine, shine, shine!

Paige says that currying the horses is truly the best thing you can do for them. Along with that, she recommends using the EQyss Premier Spray on their coats.

“I put that on with a soft sheepskin mitt on their coat before they go into the show ring. It just helps bring that extra shine to them, and it’s one of my favorites.”

Tip #2: Keep their tails strong

The Survivor Equine Mane & Tail Detangler + Shine is a favorite for their horse’s tails.

“It helps keep their tails strong and keep growing, and keeps the tailbone moisturized and that’s pretty huge because it can get pretty flaky depending on what area you’re in.”

Tip #3: Moisture is your friend

The Avocado Mist and Marigold Coat Conditioning Spray are constantly used around Allison’s barn.

“We always use those as coat conditioners, especially during this dry season here to keep them all moisturized. An added bonus is that it helps them smell good, too!”

Tip #4: Don’t slack in the winter months

Paige says that the Micro-Tek Shampoo is perfect to prevent any funk on their skin, especially after they’ve been clipped.

“As this weather is getting to winter, it keeps their legs feeling good. If you have any skin funk going on, it’s really great to use.”

To help with blanket rubs, Paige likes to use the Mega-Tek Rebuilder. “You can actually leave a thin layer on their shoulders while they’re getting blanket rubs and it helps their hair grow back.”

It’s been a big year for Paige and the Allison Springer team, who collected a big win in the CCI4*-L at MARS Bromont this summer with No May Moon and a top-5 finish in the CCI3*-L at MARS Maryland 5 Star this fall with Monbeg Zebedee. Allison is also the fifth-ranked U.S. rider by USEA leaderboard points, capping off a stellar year supported by Paige at the helm of the important work that goes into keeping the horses happy and healthy.

Go Paige and Go Eventing!

Badminton TV to Move onto ClipMyHorse.TV Platform in 2025

By on Nov 20, 2024 9:00 am -

Tim Price and VITALI during the Cross Country phase, Badminton Horse Trials, Gloucestershire UK 11 May 2024

After introducing a native live-streaming platform in 2022, MARS Badminton Horse Trials (UK) has announced that their Badminton TV service will be shifting to the ClipMyHorse.TV platform in 2025 and beyond.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with ClipMyHorse TV who will enhance the Badminton TV experience. Eventing fans worldwide will have the ability to follow the action via a Badminton Season Pass (£21.99) or the ClipMyHorse.TV Premium Subscription,” commented Event Director Jane Tuckwell.

User enhancements such as multi language commentary, live stream rewind and jump back functions will provide a high-quality streaming experience on web, mobile devices and smart TV.
“It is ClipMyHorse.TV’s mission to promote equestrian sports by making it as easily accessible as possible, creating the best streaming experience on all devices. Through this new partnership, ClipMyHorse.TV Premium Members will also be able to access Badminton TV content.” explains ClipMyHorse.TV Managing Director Markus Detering.

Existing Badminton TV subscribers will be contacted directly on how to activate their subscription on the ClipMyHorse.TV platform as the 2025 event draws closer, while the BBC will continue to broadcast their Sunday highlights program as per previous years.

MARS Badminton returns May 7-11, 2025 and you can find more information on this CCI5* event here.

Wednesday News & Notes

By on Nov 20, 2024 12:01 am -

Here’s a fun (and, if we must say, quite a difficult) game to play! Defender Burghley has posted a collection of fuzzy five-star horses to quiz us all on just how familiar we are with the sleek athletes that reside somewhere under that glorious winter shag. How did you do on this test?

U.S. Weekend Preview

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News & Reading

Anti-vaccine conspiracies aren’t just a human health issue — they’re increasingly impacting the equine industry. Horse Nation delves into the risks posed by misinformation, including the growing reluctance among some horse owners to vaccinate against life-threatening diseases. This in-depth article explores the implications for equine welfare and the broader industry, highlighting the importance of science-based decisions in protecting horses. Don’t miss this thought-provoking read here.

Maddy Temkin is making waves in the eventing world by developing young horses with patience and a keen eye for talent. In a feature by Sidelines Magazine, Maddy shares her journey as a rising professional rider and her approach to bringing along young equine prospects. From building trust to shaping future stars, Maddy’s dedication highlights the importance of thoughtful horsemanship. Read the full article here.

After being diagnosed with epilepsy in 2018, long-distance runner Nicole Teeny faced significant challenges, including the loss of her independence and the ability to run freely. Determined to reclaim her life, she set an ambitious goal: to compete against horses in a 50-mile endurance ride. This unique endeavor not only tested her physical limits but also symbolized her resilience and hope. Nicole’s inspiring journey underscores the power of setting bold goals in the face of adversity. Read more about her story here.

Looking to upgrade your safety gear? Ride EquiSafe has published a comprehensive comparison of low-profile equestrian air vests, highlighting key features, safety standards, and fit considerations. Check out the full article for more.

Video Break

Catch up with two powerhouse women in equestrian media: Caroline Culbertson of Equestrian Voices and Horse Person Podcast, and Noelle Floyd, of Dear Horse World (all podcasts you should have on your must-listen list!) sit down for a candid chat at Equine Affaire. Watch the episode below:

100 Days Out From the 2025 $100,000 Conceal GPE Showcase p/b Taylor, Harris Insurance Services

By on Nov 19, 2024 10:30 am -

We are just 100 days out from the 7th installment of “An Event Like No Other!” All are invited to take in this unique showcase of the sport of three day eventing, February 28th & March 1st, at Bruce’s Field in Aiken, SC. The $100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field, presented by Taylor Harris Insurance (GPE), promises two action-packed days of equestrian sport.

Sponsorship Opportunities, Vendor Agreements, and Press Applications are all available online here. VIP and General Admission tickets will go on sale Dec. 1st, 2024.

The event is a condensed eventing competition, with riders contesting three phases (Dressage, Show Jumping, Cross Country) over the course of two days, all with the same horse. This “triathlon” of equestrian sport is the ultimate test of partnership, training, and fitness, and serves as a popular stop on the early-season tour of many top international riders and Olympic hopefuls.

To date the event has worked with 32 national and local non-profit organizations and awarded over $60,000 to our charitable partners. The competition has attracted riders from 9 different countries, including 13 Olympians and international super stars such as William Fox-Pitt & Austin O’Connor, and awarded over $350,000 in prize money to the competitors. In 2021 all four of the horse and rider combinations that went on to travel to Tokyo for the Olympics competed at the showcase. All 5 of the 2022 FEI World Championships US Squad have made an appearance at the Aiken Showcase. Just this past year in 2024, we saw GPE champions, Boyd Martin, Liz Halliday, and Will Coleman all named to the Paris Olympic Team.

The GPE has become the highlight of Aiken’s winter equestrian season. It is able to showcase this fabulous sport in the heart of historic Aiken and generate enthusiasm among equestrian and non-equestrians alike. The GPE is the fulcrum that shines a bright light on this community by attracting many of the world’s best competitors.

All VIP and General Admission tickets go on sale, online Dec 1st, 2024. We can’t wait to see you for #GPE2025!

In-Depth Study on Horse Welfare Perception is Underway

By on Nov 19, 2024 9:30 am -

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Groundbreaking research led by Hartpury University and EQuerry / Co with support from Via Nova Training, is underway. The study is launched to further examine equine welfare perceptions among equestrians in the United States, UK, and Europe, based on previous research carried out in Holland by Dr. Inga Wolframm and colleagues. This new study aims to gather broader insights from different cultural and geographical contexts, helping to shape future practices in horse care and equestrian activities globally.

Addressing Global Challenges in Equine Welfare

This study comes at a time when equine welfare is under increasing public scrutiny, particularly in competitive disciplines and traditional equestrian practices. The concept of Social License to Operate (SLO) is gaining importance, with the public increasingly demanding transparency and higher standards of welfare within industries such as equestrian sports. Recent media reports have highlighted welfare concerns, calling for tighter regulations and a greater emphasis on ethical horse care.

The new study aims to address these challenges by providing scientifically backed insights into how horse enthusiasts across different regions define equine welfare. This is especially significant as the attitude of both equestrians and the public evolve, with many questioning whether enough is being done to ensure the ethical treatment of horses.

“We’ve seen growing discussions around the role of equestrian sport in modern society,” noted one international news outlet. “The industry must adapt to evolving welfare standards to maintain public trust and their social license to operate.”

The new study promises to deliver actionable recommendations to help equestrian stakeholders, including policymakers, trainers, and horse owners, make informed decisions. The study’s findings aim to foster improved welfare practices while addressing the growing concerns within the equestrian community and beyond.

“Previous research has given us insights into the perception of horse welfare in certain regions,” said Christine Bjerkan, Managing Director at EQuerry / Co. “However, equestrian culture and practices vary across demographics, and capturing the broader picture is crucial. By examining a wider demographic of equestrians, we can better understand the global perception of equine welfare within our industry and its real-life implications. By addressing the friction within the industry, we can move forward united on a scientific basis, making positive changes that over time will be reflected in our industry’s public image. We believe this research will offer new opportunities for shaping future horse care and welfare initiatives.”

The study’s findings are expected to be published in mid-2025, with the potential to significantly influence best practices in horse welfare across different regions. For further information on this ongoing research, please contact: Victoria Lewis – Lead Researcher, Hartpury University