Classic Eventing Nation

Weekend Winners: Virginia, River Glen, & Majestic Oaks

By on Nov 11, 2024 9:30 am -

Happy Monday, Eventing Nation! We’re here to celebrate our Weekend Winners – from Starter to 3*, we have plenty to catch up on this week!

Congrats to all on successful outings at Virginia, River Glen, and Majestic Oaks, with a special shout out to the winner of our Unofficial Low Score Award: Erin Murphy and Haslemere Jacamo, who won the Open Training at Virginia on their dressage score of 20.6!

Virginia Horse Center Eventing Fall H.T & International (VA): [Website][Scoring]

CCI 3*S: Ali Kuhn and Little Hail (45.4)
CCI 2*L: Sharon White and Arden Augustus (34.2)
CCI 2*S: Tim Bourke and Sing To Me Cooley (41.5)
CCI 1*L: Ruth Rosendaul and Bonhunt Bertie (31.8)
Open Intermediate: Phillip Dutton and Cooley Starship (29.4)
Open Preliminary A: Ryan Wood and Woodstock Indy (35.5)
Open Preliminary B: Dana Cooke and FE Mississippi (50.4)
Preliminary Rider: Devon Sutherland and Mega Bucks (52.6)
Modified Rider: Kathleen Fitzgerald and Spotted Chap (31.3)
Open Modified A: Alex Reed and Kayan (30.5)
Open Modified B: Kirsten Schuitema and McCovey Cove (35.0)
Junior Training Rider: Liana Anson and Biscuit Snatcher (40.6)
Open Training: Erin Murphy and Haslemere Jacamo (20.6)
Senior Training Rider A: Kaleigh Barkaszi and Golightly (36.6)
Senior Training Rider B: Jaelyn Comer and Uvera Z (32.1)
Training Horse: Abigail McGowan and Mystic Serenade (33.6)
Junior Novice Rider: Madeline Riley and Bobbie Burns (29.4)
Novice Horse: Hannah Brandt and Fernhill Emerald (26.4)
Open Novice: Marilyn Payne and Rock Me Mama (30.0)
Senior Novice Rider: Amanda Brady and Cooley For Keeps (28.6)
Beginner Novice Horse: Hannah Taylor and Rippa (32.4)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Madeleine Betzer and Kenny (Nicas Last Laugh) (30.0)
Open Beginner Novice: Kylie Stangle and Redfield Mikke (25.6)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider: Gina Keller and Snack Attack (24.1)
Starter: Linda Jimenez and Cheeky Girl (27.0)

River Glen Fall H.T. (TN): [Website][Scoring]

Open Preliminary: Makenzie Lowe and BT Jump the Gun (35.6)
Open Modified: Anabelle Friend and Tater’CZalad (37.8)
Open Training: Brad Hall and Montauk Blue (36.0)
Training Rider: Abigail Walker and Galway Bay Cooley (30.0)
Training/Novice: Alexis Anderson and Bourbon Treaty (43.3)
Novice Rider Jr: Willa Newell and Excel Star Wildwood (24.7)
Novice Rider Sr: Samantha McLean and Roses Are Red (36.4)
Open Novice: Brad Hall and Lux Hero (35.3)
BNovice Rider Sr: Kate Bickerstaff and Just Like Ike (37.3)
BNovice Rider Jr: Katherine Naselsker and Foudroyant de Bellerose (30.0)
Open BNovice: Sarah Younger and Cody’s Legacy (37.4)
Open Starter Jr: Wren Willcox and Zephyr (28.7)
Open Starter Sr: Molly DePerna and Mannulus (34.3)

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website][Scoring]

Open Preliminary: Kiersten Miller and Mama Mia (27.1)
Preliminary Rider: Janna Scholtz and Fernhill Locklann (39.8)
Open Modified: Cindy Rawson and Fourfields Classek (26.4)
Open Training: Ainsley Hagen and Ardeo Hennessy (29.8)
Training Rider: Brie Murray and Fernhill Ranga Tanga (26.9)
Novice Rider A: Jill Lance and Always A Wiseguy (30.3)
Novice Rider B: London Roberts-Shipway and Goldmark (26.4)
Open Novice A: Kyle Carter and Reddy for Royalty (25.0)
Open Novice B: Ashlynn Meuchel and NW Limon (23.1)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Lucy Walter and Charge the Harbor (27.2)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Holly Usiak and Nunez WTW (29.1)
Open Beginner Novice: Anna Kjellstrom and Cooley Doublmax (25.9)
Starter-Intro: Margaret Stocker and Vabusa (28.0)

Monday News & Notes from Futuretrack

By on Nov 11, 2024 12:01 am -

It’s time to kick off the annual Goresbridge Go For Gold Select Event Horse Sale! Happening over three days and culminating in a live sale on November 13, this sale, held at Barnadown and The Amber Springs Hotel in Co. Wexford, Ireland, features a bursting catalog this year absolutely of promising event horses. If you’ve not experienced this format before, never fear! Event director Ed Donahoe is here to answer some commonly asked questions in the video above. You can also view the catalog and more information on the sale here (as well as view the live stream of the horses being shown over the next two days). Lastly, you can view Tilly’s wishlist here.

U.S. Weekend Results

Virginia Horse Center Eventing Fall H.T & International (VA): [Website] [Scores]

River Glen Fall H.T. (TN): [Website] [Scores]

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Scores]
News & Reading

News & Reading

A recently rediscovered poem from 1914 poignantly captures the heartbreak of horses lost during the First World War. Horse & Hound shares this touching tribute, written over a century ago, which reflects on the sacrifices made by equine companions who served alongside soldiers. This piece serves as a powerful reminder today on Veteran’s Day of the bond between humans and horses and the enduring impact of war on these loyal animals. Read the full story for a look into this moving piece of equestrian history.

The USEA has published a piece honoring the military veterans and active duty members who also ride. Don’t miss it here.

Want to win a copy of Kareem Rosser’s upcoming second book, When You’re Ready? He’s hosting a giveaway ahead of the book’s release date in February via Goodreads here.

French rider Maxime Livio has announced the transition of three of his horses, including his 5* partner Carouzo Bois Marotin, to new riders in the 2025 season. One horse, a 4* winner called Api Du Libaire, will be campaigned by U.S. rider Alexa Thompson, while two others will move to Thai riders. Read more here.

The USEA is gearing up for its 2024 Annual Meeting & Convention, scheduled for December 12-15 at The Westin Seattle in Seattle, WA. This event offers a unique opportunity for members to engage in educational seminars, committee meetings, and open forums, all aimed at enhancing the sport of eventing. Highlights include a keynote address by renowned horseman Tik Maynard and a show jumping course design seminar led by experts Chris Barnard and Marc Donovan. Attendees can also look forward to networking opportunities and exploring Seattle’s iconic landmarks. Registration is now open, with early-bird rates available until December 11. Click here for more information.

Scholarships, awarding five high school seniors $1,000 each to support their equestrian pursuits during college. Among the honorees is Emily Arriaga from Bahama, N.C., who is attending the Savannah College of Art and Design to study Equestrian Studies and continue her show jumping career. Arriaga, who graduated at the top of her high school class and earned an Associate of Arts Degree from Durham Technical Community College, has extensive experience in all aspects of horse care and training. She aspires to establish a horse sale, training, and showing facility with her brother, aiming to positively impact the equestrian industry. Read more about the recipients here.

Video Break

That’s a wrap on a great weekend of eventing at VHC Eventing, hosted at Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, VA. Have a look at what makes this venue so special to locals from presenting sponsor, Capital Square, CEO and amateur eventer Louis Rogers:

Putting the Bow on Top of a Great Weekend at VHC Eventing, Presented by Capital Square

By on Nov 10, 2024 6:32 pm -
Sharon White & Arden Augustus. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott Sharon White & Arden Augustus. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

Lexington, Va.– Whether competing on a U25 team or riding in a senior division, an exciting weekend of sport was had by all at VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square. With over 450 riders flocking to the historic venue, all three phases ran concurrently with both sides of the cross country course in use and multiple rings in session. This weekend’s winners rose above the fray to take home well-earned blue ribbons.

Having won the CCI2*-S at VHC Eventing in May, Sharon White and Arden Augustus, owned by Anita Antenucci, bookended their season with nearly identical wins, however this weekend marked “Gus’s” first long-format event. 2024 also marked the pair’s first full season at the FEI level. Entering the show jumping phase on a score of 30.2, one rail wasn’t enough to knock the pair out of the lead.

“I was really pleased with him,” White said. “I had the rail and thought I’d lost it, but he was jumping well and it was just that I needed to help him a bit more– and don’t have another one.”

White is well-known for producing her own horses from the ground up and Gus is no different. The five-star eventer planned her season with an eye to Gus’s future and chose to enter the CCI2*-L at the Virginia Horse Center to help build the 6-year-old gelding’s base of fitness. “My whole year has been just about letting his body mature and letting him get stronger. And I debated whether he needed to do the two long or not. But then the hills of Virginia are so intense– I think it’s a really useful base for a horse. So that’s why he was here in Virginia, specifically for the hills, which, again, you’re always looking to put a good, solid base, or foundation of fitness on an event horse.”

Local to Summit Point, West Virginia, White travels to the Virginia Horse Center relatively often. She believes that competing at the venue is educational for horses and riders. “The horses have to learn about competing on terrain. Riders have to learn about competing on terrain. So I was here to give my horses an education on that, because everywhere else the hills are easier, right?” White said, laughing. “The Virginia Horse Center Foundation is just doing such a good job. I really appreciate anyone who puts on events and does their best.”

Hyperion Stud U25 Teams Award

The winning U25 teams in the CCI2*-L. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

While the Virginia Horse Center is a popular stomping ground for upper level riders, this weekend also proved to be a big event for a large contingent of youth competitors. Area II coordinator Chris Donovan organized the U25 Team Challenge, sponsored by Hyperion Stud. Consisting of a total of 21 competitors, there were three teams in the CCI2*-L and two teams in the CCI1*-L, with two riders competing in the CCI3*-S division. Each winning team received the Hyperion Stud U25 Team Award.

The winning CCI2*-L team with a total score of 128.2, consisted of Katherine Maroko & Redfield Champion, Riley Zgrebnak & Cooley Criminal Mind, Megan Hopkins & Altaskin Jack, and Megan Loughnane & Lynton.

In the CCI1*-L division, with a score of 123.60, the winning team consisted of Ruth Rosendaul & Bonhunt Bertie, Mandolin Whitten & Bossanova, Jaelyn Corner & Loughnatousa Yours, and Lea-Claude Pelletier & Golden Nugget.

The CCI3*-S U25 winner was Audrey Ogan and Always Cooley, with a score of 65.7. The pair came in 5th in the division overall.

Area II coordinator Chris Donovan has a long history of involvement with the U25 program and is no stranger to organizing events at the Virginia Horse Center. “I firmly believe they are the future of the sport, whether they go on to be on a team, like at the Pan-American Games or something, or whether they become future trainers,” Donovan said. “Helping develop and build that camaraderie between them is so important, which is why we give U25 riders teams and encourage them to get to know each other and build a network to support them.”

Donovan believes that the U25 riders can learn a lot from competing at the Virginia Horse Center specifically because of the local community of riders. “We have a lot of the upper level riders who are here, and these kids have an opportunity to go on to become grooms or working students for those riders. They can make those connections while they’re here,” Donovan said.

Wrapping Up the National Divisions

The National divisions also wrapped up the weekend today, with the last rider crossing the finish line on cross country with perfect timing, as a cold drizzle had just started to come down over the Blue Ridge Mountains.

In the only Intermediate division, Olympian Phillip Dutton and Leonie Padgett’s Cooley Starship won with a score of 29.4.

Ryan Wood took home the blue in the Open Preliminary A division with his own Woodstock Indy on a score of 35.5. In Open Preliminary B, Dana Cooke and the FE Mississippi Syndicate LLC’s FE Mississippi came in first with a score of 50.4. Preliminary Rider was won by Devon Sutherland with her own Mega Bucks on a score of 52.6.

Kathleen Fitzgerald won Modified Rider aboard Michael Fitzgerald’s Spotted Chap, with a score of 31.3. Open Modified A crowned Alex Reed and Susan Southard’s Kayan winner with a score of 30.5. Meanwhile, Kirsten Schuitema and her own McCovey Cove claimed the blue ribbon with a score of 35.0 in the Open Modified B division.

There were a total of five Training divisions this weekend at VHC Eventing. A score of 40.6 gave Liana Anson and her own Biscuit Snatcher the win in the Junior Training Rider division. Erin Murphy and Haslemere Jacamo, owned by Rae Stone, laid down the lowest score of the weekend, a 20.6, to take home the blue ribbon in the Open Training division. Training Rider A was won by Kaleigh Barkaszi and her own Golightly with a score of 36.6. Meanwhile, Jaelyn Comer claimed the win with Uvera Z in the Training Rider B division with a score of 32.1. Finally, the last Training division, Training Horse, Abigail McGowan and her own Mystic Serenade achieved the winning score of 32.1.

In Junior Novice Rider, Madeline Riley and Alexandra Tatham’s Bobbie Burns won with a score of 29.4. With a score of 26.4, Hannah Brandt took home a blue ribbon with her horse, Fernhill Emerald, in the Novice Horse division. The blue ribbon in the Open Novice division was claimed by Marilyn Payne and her mare, Rock Me Mama, with a score of 30 even. Amanda Brady took home the title of Senior Novice Rider champion with Dante’s Haven LLC’s Cooley For Keeps with a score of 28.6.

Hannah Taylor and her mare Rippa won the Beginner Novice Horse division with a score of 32.4. With a score of 30, Madeleine Betzer and Domenica Kujawa’s Kenny (Nicas Last Laugh), brought home the blue in Junior Beginner Novice Rider. In Open Beginner Novice, Kylie Stangle and Janina Parmelee’s Redfield Mikke claimed the blue ribbon with a score of 25.6. Finally, it’s deja vu in the Senior Beginner Novice Rider division– Gina Keller and her gelding Snack Attack repeat their May performance to win again.

Last but certainly not least, Linda Jimenez won the Starter division with Ingrid Patel’s Cheeky Girl on a score of 27.

The Virginia Horse Center Foundation would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the volunteers who made this weekend possible. Without the hard work of volunteers at every possible turn, competitors would not have been able to enjoy a great weekend of eventing.

Capital Square Tip

Competing on an 1,100-pound animal with a mind of its own is incredibly challenging. Running a horse farm day in and out takes skill and hard work. However, investing in tax-advantaged real estate opportunities can be simple and straightforward, provided you are working with the right partner. Learn more about the Virginia Horse Center’s sponsor, Capital Square.

Sharon White and Capital Square co-CEO Louis Rogers. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

A New Documentary for Your Weekend Viewing: Beyond the Arena with Jon Holling

By on Nov 10, 2024 9:30 am -

We all know Jon Holling as a 5* rider, but he’s also been a huge advocate for safety and welfare in our sport, helping to pioneer the frangible fence movement in eventing that now sees collapsible fences on nearly every cross country course in the country (and beyond). This passion for safety is personal for Jon, and his story has been told in visual form through a new documentary now available in full, at no cost, on YouTube.

Directed by Peter Velasquez, the documentary was filmed over a span of four months behind the scenes with Jon, yielding a story of his resilience and dedication to the sport. You won’t want to miss it!

Sunday Links

By on Nov 10, 2024 12:01 am -

Many congratulations to Canadian Olympian Mike Winter on his receipt of the Jordan McDonald Memorial Cup at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair & Horse Show in Toronto last week. This trophy, given in honor of Jordan, who passed away in a competition accident in 2014, honors the recipient for their exceptional contribution to Canadian eventing.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Virginia Horse Center Eventing Fall H.T & International (VA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

River Glen Fall H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Links & Reading

Identifying Fatigue in Horses During Cross-Country

‘There’s pressure to produce young horses a certain way to get the big bucks’ says rider, who is going against the grain

Aharoni’s Notorious is Carrying on His Five-Star Brother’s Legacy ‘in a Golden Jacket’

Alfalfa or Grass Hay: Which Is Better for Winter Warmth?

Video Break

Get some cross country tip from Sharon White as she walks with her students at VHC Eventing this weekend:

Autumn Hues While Eventing with a View: VHC Eventing Presented by Capital Square

By on Nov 9, 2024 7:30 pm -

Ali Kuhn and Little Hail. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

Lexington, Va. – After an unseasonably warm weekend, competitors across all divisions took advantage of the crisp fall weather to add some extra energy to their mounts today at VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square. While three FEI divisions announced their winners, the CCI2*-L will wrap up tomorrow, along with the remaining 14 National divisions.

The winner of the CCI3*-S traveled a long way to accomplish her first place finish with a score of 45.4. Native to Wisconsin, Ali Kuhn and Little Hail, owned by John Crowell, were on the road for more than 15 hours to get to the Virginia Horse Center and had to stay overnight in Dayton, Ohio. According to Kuhn, “Hail” laid down a great performance despite a rocky start, making it well worth the trip.

“He was really lazy in warm-up, so that was kind of alarming. I thought, ‘If he wants to pull up because he’s tired, that’s what we’ll do,’” Kuhn said. “Then, we had to have a lead out of the startbox because he was on his hind legs. But then, he came out of the startbox really strong. He came out like fire. If it were up to him, he would steeplechase everything. It took him a bit to settle down, but then he felt awesome. It was my job at that point to just stay out of the way. He jumped right into the second water and he was so awesome. At that point I was like, ‘This is going to be an awesome ride today.’ He came across the finish line and felt like he still had a lot of energy left.”

While Kuhn says she would never leave Area IV, she’s no stranger to long hauls to compete. She attempts to go to a new event every season and is contemplating riding at Rebecca Farm next year. This year, she chose VHC Eventing.

“I’ve never been here before and it’s really cool. Every year I try to go to a new place, I want to see other places. The season is so short in Area IV, but they try really hard to offer great events,” Kuhn said. “I love that it’s still nice fall here. By us, we’re getting ready for winter. Conditioning this late in the season by us is hard. Coming out here and knowing that it’s going to be nice and dry was really great. It’s nice to come out here and show with other people who are doing this level. It’s nice to meet other people and see how other people do things– other ideas, other ways of doing things, and walking courses with people I’ve never walked with before. It’s been really helpful to get that variety and learn how other people do it.”

Sharon White and Arden Augustus. Photo by Haley Boothe

Spectators could be excused for experiencing some deja vu when they looked at the scores for the CCI2*-L. The winner of May’s CCI2*-S, Sharon White and Arden Augustus, are once again in the lead with a score of 30.2. Owned by Anita Antenucci, White has had a hand in “Gus’s” development since before birth.

“I bred him with Anita– we bred him together. I competed his mother, Juneau, so I’ve been there from the beginning. Mel, who works for Anita, started him in the beginning, which she always does, and she does a great job,” White said. “When it came to me, it was really just so easy. All the hard work was done. He’s a trier, and he’s solid in his mind. And he just always says, ‘Yes.’”

White credits Gus’s excellent work ethic with today’s result. “He’s been just a little rock star. He’s like a young teenage boy who just tries really hard,” White said. “I was really proud of him. He does not consider it to be a big deal, right? I thought it was a bigger deal because I think the hills here are impressive. But he was like, it’s fine.”

As the last FEI division to wrap-up, the two-star competitors still have to face the challenge of show jumping at 9:30 a.m. tomorrow. While she’s thrilled to be in the lead, White is trying not to dwell on her position prior to heading into the ring tomorrow morning.

“I’m really excited to be in the position of getting the challenge of going in there in the lead, which I don’t enjoy,” White said, laughing. “I prefer working my way up. Whatever happens, I’m so proud of him, and this weekend was really about developing his base, right? I do think that these hills will put a base on a horse, and that’s really what I wanted to do.”

Tim Bourke and Sing to Me Cooley. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

Virginia native Tim Bourke and Sing to Me Cooley were crowned champion in the CCI2*-S division today on a score of 41.5. Owned by Hedgerow Farm, “Melody” was one of five horses Bourke rode this weekend and is new to his string.

“She’s awesome,” Bourke said. “I have only had the ride on her since earlier this year and we’ve gotten along well. She has really good owners. She ran around a pretty tough track there today. The hill at the end always, always comes into play with the fitness and it’s a bit of a step up. But yeah, she was great. I was really happy with her.”

While their partnership is still developing, Bourke says that Melody has an easygoing personality that’s making her a barn favorite. “She’s very easy. She’s simple to do everything with,” Bourke said. “Like the girls clipped her during the week and she just stands there eating hay out of the wheelbarrow while they’re clipping her from her toes up. She’s so chilled out about everything.”

Located two hours north of the Virginia Horse Center, Bourke has become a regular face at VHC Eventing and an avid supporter of the facility. “We’ve always tried to support the Virginia Horse Trials,” Bourke said. “With the new management and everything that’s done there, I think they’ve done a fantastic job of just making it more rider friendly and more all about the horses. And it’s showing– they had a big waitlist to get into the show. I think that that bodes well for what’s to come in the future. Every time you go there, they’re trying to do something new. They’re trying to make something a little bit better. It’s always on our calendar twice a year.”

In the CCI1*-L, Ruth Rosendaul and Bonhunt Bertie were able to celebrate a big achievement. Not only riding a new partner, this weekend also marked Rosendaul’s first completion at the FEI level. Together, the pair has steadily moved up the leaderboard over the weekend after starting in seventh place. Rosendaul has only had the ride on Christa Schmidt’s 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse/Dutch Warmblood for the last year. With Bonhunt Bertie showing her the ropes, Rosendaul crossed the finish timers in first place with a score of 31.8.

The show jumping round proved extremely influential in the one-star division. Only three riders (Rosendaul, Claudia Iannuccilli & Ready Freddy, and Jennifer Duelfer & Cocky Kianna) managed to finish inside the time with no rails down. While finishing inside the time wasn’t much of an issue for many riders, even after the judges dropped the optimum time to 80 seconds, keeping all the rails in the cups proved to be a challenge for many. Rails fell across the course with no particular fence causing more problems than others.

While the FEI levels have nearly wrapped up, the CCI2*-L will finish tomorrow morning with the first rider entering the show jumping ring at 9:30 a.m. After that, all attention will turn to the National divisions, as they tackle a full day of show jumping and cross country.

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Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: 6 Working Student and Professional Opportunities

By on Nov 9, 2024 10:00 am -

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 225 listings are now live … check it out today!

The 9-to-5 office grind can feel like torture for people who dream of spending all day every day at the barn. From working student experiences to professional opportunities, there ARE ways to put your passion to work in the equestrian industry — it’s just a matter of finding the right fit.

Here are six positions that recently popped up on Sport Horse Nation.

ISO Assistant Groom for 5* Rider

Sharon White 5* International event rider in Washington DC area seeks qualified assistant groom to help our current team! Ideal candidate has excellent references & a commitment to excellence in horsemanship. Must be capable of working in a busy training barn with frequent travel to horse shows. Ability to drive a truck and trailer a plus. Independent, mature, energetic, pleasant personality preferred. Responsibilities include attention to detail, ability to multi task, preparing horses for competition and sales,and all basic horse care. Ability to work alone and/or as a team member is essential. Read more…

ISO Working Student in Ocala FL this winter

Who wants a job where you get paid to take your own horse to Ocala for the winter? Skip the snow and spend the winter riding cute horses in the sunshine! Looking for a fun, upbeat person to join our team for the winter in Ocala FL! What we need: A positive upbeat attitude, attention to detail, love of horses, good work ethic, and a willingness to learn.  Bonus if you’re a confident rider comfortable jumping beginner novice and novice fences, as we have a slew of very cool horses to ride! Read more… 

 

Working Student/Team Member

Allison Springer Eventing is in search to add an additional member to this high performance program! ASE is looking for a hard working dedicated individual to help the team full time. Our program provides opportunities for learning and growth if you are looking to forward your education on grooming, horsemanship skills, welfare and care of horses, sustaining a high-performance business, maintaining a full operational farm, trailer driving skills, and all the fundamentals of eventing … We are based in Boyce, VA from April – December and Aiken, SC from January – March. Read more… 

Competition Groom at Upper Level Eventing Barn!

Plain Dealing Farm Eventing is looking for a hard working motivated individual to join our team! We’re a small, tight-knit eventing barn located in Scottsville, Virginia with two international level event riders. The right candidate should have solid knowledge of all aspects of horse care including grooming and tacking. Attention to detail is necessary as our horses are our top priority. Applicant must be capable of working in a busy training barn with frequent travel to horse shows and ability to work on weekends. Applicant must have a valid drivers license and have experience driving a truck and trailer. Prior grooming experience is preferred, but we will consider a less experienced individual with a passion for horses looking to make this their career. Pay level dependent on experience, but compensation includes weekly salary, housing, and board for one horse. Read more… 

Working Student Position at Windchase Eventing 

Come join the Windchase Team!Windchase Eventing has working student positions throughout the year. Train in Virginia with Phyllis Dawson, Olympian and Level V ICP certified instructor. We are looking for a long-term working student at Windchase. Receive daily lessons, full board for your horse, experience riding multiple horses, housing, and shipping to competitions, a package with a value of over $4000 per month – in return for barn work and horse care. You will be part of a top quality eventing stable, train with an Olympic rider, and learning how to run a successful business. Plenty of riding opportunities and daily instruction, and top class facilities. Plus, we have a lot of fun! Read more… 

Rider/Trainer/Instructor position available at Windchase Eventing

Windchase Eventing will have an opening for a Rider/Trainer/Instructor starting in early 2025. Windchase is a top class Eventing boarding and training facility in northern Virginia owned by Olympian Phyllis Dawson. We are looking for an experienced and motivated person who is interested in a long-term position. The position entails riding and schooling the sales horses and boarders’ horses, helping with teaching the working students and clients, and working alongside Phyllis (owner) and our current Stable Manager and Windchase Staff in the general running of the business. Read more… 

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Nov 9, 2024 12:01 am -

Stuart Tinney and Leporis. Photo courtesy of Kirsty Pasto.

We’re sending well-wishes to Australian Olympic rider Stuart Tinney, who has fractured his neck in a fall while training at his home base near Sydney. The fall, which also involved the horse he was schooling (the horse was uninjured), resulted in fractures to the C2, C5 and C7 vertebrae. Eventful Life reports Stuart will be in a neck brace for six weeks and will be sidelined from the saddle for about three months. In the meantime, with the Australian season in full swing, his horses will be placed with other riders to keep them ticking along. You can read more on Eventful Life here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Virginia Horse Center Eventing Fall H.T & International (VA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

River Glen Fall H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Links & Reading

Why Five-Star Rider Bec Braitling Believes Continuing Education is Essential for Eventing’s Future

The Sacroiliac Joint in the Horse: The Key to Movement

Caroline Pamukcu: “You Can Do Both”

Preventive Equine Joint Care: What The Experts Had to Say at the Ask The Horse Live Q&A

Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands

Tack should not be a distraction to you or your horse. Fit and quality make a difference when it comes to making these investment decisions, and World Equestrian Brands has your back with a slew of brands available that have been chosen for their engineering and quality. Shop brands like Vespucci here on the just-launched new World Equestrian Brands website!

Video Break

We’re excited to be on the ground this week at VHC Eventing at Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, VA! Here’s a peek at the jog day action from earlier this week:

That First Time Shine: New Partnerships Lead the Way at VHC Eventing Presented by Capital Square

By on Nov 8, 2024 9:05 pm -

CCI3*-S competitor Emeline Gilbert presents EWSZ Mozart in dressage. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott.

It was an action-packed day at VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square. Against the dramatic backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, four FEI divisions and seven national divisions laid down their best performances in the ring and across the country. When the cards fell, an inspiring trend was made clear– nearly every leader was a newly-paired horse and rider.

EWSZ Mozart and Emeline Gilbert made a good show of contesting their first time at the CCI3*-S level, taking the lead with a 34.9 after a double-clear show jumping round. Gilbert was shocked to find herself in the lead, following the withdrawal of Allison Springer and Crystal Crescent Moon.

“I was just in shock when I came out of show jumping,” Gilbert said. “I was like, ‘Oh my god, we just show jumped clear in our first three star.’ And then to find out I was in the lead– that’s really exciting, but I’m trying not to let that add any sort of pressure and just go out and make it a good experience for both of us tomorrow. Obviously be competitive, too, but I’m focusing more on it being a good outing for both of us.”

Despite her early success, Gilbert isn’t resting on her laurels and is still eager to improve her performance at her next three-star outing. “I thought he was really good in the dressage. I thought there were parts where I left some points on the table, but I thought he was really good and tried really hard for me. And then I thought in show jumping, he really stepped up to the plate. Even when I wasn’t perfect, he was a rock star, and made the course feel easy, which was nice.”

In the CCI2*-L, Katherine Maroko and Redfield Champion pulled off a hat trick, not only taking the lead in their division, but also claiming the title of FEI low score of the day, 23.6. The division was jam-packed with notable names, including 2023 Pan-American Games team silver medalist Sharon White and Australian five-star eventer Ryan Wood. Originally ridden by Olympian Caroline Pamukcu, the 10-year-old Hanoverian gelding recently won the CCI2*-S with Maroko at the Maryland International at Loch Moy Farm this July. Maroko has been building her partnership with Redfield Champion over the last year, having only completed two FEI events together so far.

Valerie Pride took the lead in the CCI2*-S division with Kiss My Jambo M, a new ride for the FEI judge. This is only her third FEI event with the 8-year-old gelding and their first time at the two-star level together. Still, “Jambo” has had a stellar record with his previous young rider.

“I got him last fall and he made a big trip to get here. He came all the way from Spain. I was really excited about him. He was ridden by a young rider over there, and so we’ve just been taking some time to build a partnership, get used to life in the states,” Pride said. “He campaigned a bunch. He’s still one of the top Modified horses in the country, even though he did that last spring.”

Despite their new partnership, Pride and Jambo laid down a double clear show jumping round to end the day on their dressage score of 28.6. Looking ahead to tomorrow, Pride says that while he’s never seen terrain of this magnitude before, she’s feeling confident.

“He’s definitely never done anything with terrain like that, so we’ll learn a lot about him tomorrow,” Pride said. “Obviously, I have high hopes for him, and you have a way of telling how they’ll handle that hill. There’s some pretty good questions out there, so I’m really looking forward to it.”

While the other FEI divisions completed dressage and show jumping today, the CCI1*-L completed the dressage and cross country phases. Leading the way going into show jumping tomorrow is Mandolin Whitten and Bossanova, with a score of 26. This is the pair’s first time riding at the FEI level, which is only sweetened by the fact they’re currently holding onto the second lowest FEI score of the day.

“Bossanova makes my job easy!” Whitten said. “He was so pleasant on the flat and game around a super fun cross country course. It’s really a privilege to ride such a good-hearted horse.”

Whitten has been riding “Nova” for the past two years. Prior to Whitten, the 13-year-old Hanoverian gelding had only competed in the dressage ring. “I started him over fences and have produced him up to the Preliminary level. He’s the first horse I’ve brought along this far, so it’s all been really exciting.”

Tomorrow, the one-star riders will start the day bright and early with a horse inspection at 7:30 a.m. Riders in the CCI2*-S, CCI2*-L, and CCI3*-S will tackle cross country starting at 8 a.m. Riders, competitors, and volunteers are invited to the Competitor Party tomorrow evening, featuring a live band, delicious food, and beverages sponsored by Triple Crown.

VHC Eventing would like to thank all of our sponsors, Capital Square, Hyperion Stud, Old Dominion Equine, World Equestrian Brands, Sagmae, and Dover Saddlery for their support of the Virginia Horse Center Foundation.

Today’s Capital Square Tip:

As an owner and amateur eventer, Capital Square’s founder and co-CEO, Louis Rogers, understands the connection between investing and eventing. Diligence, strategy, collaboration and cooperation can make all the difference. Curious about the transformative potential of real estate investment? Learn more about strategic investment opportunities poised to perform in both good and challenging economic environments.

Virginia Horse Center Eventing Fall H.T & International (VA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and Governor Glenn Youngkin Announce Fifth 2024 Spirit of Virginia Award Recipients

By on Nov 8, 2024 12:00 pm -

First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and Governor Glenn Youngkin present the fifth 2024 Spirit of Virginia Award to the Virginia Horse Center Foundation on October 31, 2024. Official photo by Shealah Craighead.

On Thursday, October 31, Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin awarded the fifth 2024 Spirit of Virginia Awards to the Virginia Horse Center Foundation in recognition of its exceptional contributions to Virginia’s equestrian community and its impact on the state’s agricultural and recreational economy. The First Lady and Governor presented the award to Foundation President Roxanne Booth and CEO Steve Shank at a ceremony attended by local officials, community members, and young equestrians, where they also announced the launch of the Youth Equestrian Festival.

“As a pillar of Virginia’s equine industry, the Virginia Horse Center Foundation not only embodies the Spirit of Virginia, but the Spirit of Passion, Excellence and Sportmanship as they raise the bar for the next generation of riders to grow and compete at the highest level,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “We look forward to the Horse Center remaining a premiere destination for lively competition with the inaugural Youth Equestrian Festival taking place next year. Suzanne and I applaud the Foundation for their tireless work in enriching experiences for all participants and visitors.”

“We are proud to recognize the Virginia Horse Center Foundation for their achievements and their ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting a legacy that has become a cornerstone of Virginia’s agricultural and recreational landscape,” said First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin. “Congratulations to the Foundation for the invaluable impact they continue to make on our state and its communities.”

“The Virginia Horse Center Foundation is truly honored and humbled to join the ranks of fellow Spirit of Virginia award recipients. Our inclusion in this distinguished group of organizations who serve Virginians first and foremost is timely and speaks to the vision of the Governor and First Lady, who recognize the educational, economic, and environmental importance of the Horse Center itself as well as the equine industry in the Commonwealth,” said Steve Shank, CEO of Virginia Horse Center Foundation.

“Equal to that is the vision of our Board of Directors, led by President Roxanne Booth, who is spearheading major facility upgrades and improvements that will help ensure the Horse Center’s place as an equestrian destination of note in the mid-Atlantic region.”

“Thank you to The Governor and First Lady for the honor and recognition of the Fifth Spirit of Virginia Award,” said Roxanne Booth, President of the Virginia Horse Center. “The Virginia Horse Center is in this position because of an army of people who have worked for 40 years, and continue to work, year in and year out, to make this a place that resonates with the energy and enthusiasm of activities revolving around our beloved horses. Our partnership with city, county, and state officials has supported us through lean times and helped us to thrive, and we take pride in sharing the results of our work that exemplify the Spirit of Virginia.”

“The Virginia Horse Center has been an important part of my equestrian life,” said Taryn Ayers, Junior Exhibitor at the Virginia Horse Center “My first A show experience with my first horse, Wiley, was here at the Horse Center during the winter. Prior to that, Wiley and I partnered for the VHSA Associate Finals, so it is fitting to be back for this important event with my wonderful new partner, West Palm. We are so happy to be part of the celebration! West and I have been fortunate to show in many lovely venues across the state and in other states, however, I can honestly say it always feels good to come home to the Virginia Horse Center.”

The Spirit of Virginia Award highlights unique contributions and achievements across the Commonwealth and honors those who make extraordinary impacts in various sectors, from private industry and education to culture, the arts, and philanthropy.