Classic Eventing Nation

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Apr 16, 2022 12:01 am -

 

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The big winners at Twin Rivers Spring International have some really neat prizes to take home courtesy of the McFall family! Not only are Jen, Earl, and Taylor all excellent horse people, but they really have some talent for painting poles and fun fillers. Scroll through the Dragonfire Farm Instagram for more works of art.

U.S. Weekend Action:

Ocala International Festival of Eventing (FL) [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]
Twin Rivers Spring International (CA) [Website] [Entry List/Ride Times/Live Scores]
Fair Hill International April H.T. & CCI-S (MD) [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]
FENCE H.T. (SC) [Website] [Entry Status] [Live Scores]
Longleaf Pine H.T. (NC) [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]
Spring Bay H.T. (KY) [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Saturday Links:

The VIP Volunteer: Janice Holmes

Why the Canter Probably Needs to Be a Bigger Focus in Your Training

Children with cerebral palsy benefited from a riding simulator coupled with virtual reality

To Boost Omega-3s, Focus on Supplement Dose, Not Duration

Are you attending this year’s Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event? Join EN and Ride iQ for a ridiculously epic course walk led by Kyle Carter and Buck Davidson on Friday, April 29. If you register ahead of time, you’ll be entered to win prizes such as a limited edition signed tote bag and goodies from our sponsors. Click here to learn more!

Saturday Video: T minus two weeks until there are horses galloping around the Kentucky horse Park! Here’s the Lucky Horseshoe on its way to its place on course.

World Equestrian Brands Pick of the Week:

Helen and James Alliston In Control of Twin Rivers CCI4*-S/Advanced

By on Apr 15, 2022 7:00 pm -

Helen Alliston and Ebay lead the CCI4*-S. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

We’re keeping tabs on the action at Twin Rivers, where the spring FEI event is in full swing. It’s husband-wife super duo Helen and James Alliston who lead the way in the weekend’s marquee divisions, with Helen in command of the 4*-S aboard Ebay (Escudo – Komtessa) on a 33.9 and James leading the Advanced with Nemesis (Novalis 46 – Maesy, by Musing xx) on a score of 36.4.

James Alliston and Nemesis lead the Advanced after two phases. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

This year we’ll see James make a return to the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, the first time we’ll see him in the Bluegrass State since 2017 with his well-known partner, Parker. He’s competing the horse he’ll take in the 5*, Helen’s Paper Jam (Paparazzo – Reely Hamin), in the Advanced this weekend, currently in third place after dressage and show jumping on a score of 44.6. He’s also entered in the 4*-S with Nemesis.

Many thanks to Sherry Stewart for dropping us some photo updates from the weekend! We’ll be back with more from Saturday’s cross country action later on.

Kentucky-bound Alex MacLeod and Newmarket Jack are in second in their final prep for the “big dance” in two weeks’ time. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Madison Temkin and Dr. Hart are second in the CCI4*-S. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Megan McIver Sabo and Quintessence are third in the Advanced. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Andrea Baxter and Laguca Seca, the son of her 5* partner Indy 500, are first in the CCI3*-S. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Tommy Greengard and Joshuay MBF, second in the CCI3*-S. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Gina Economou and Exclusive, third in the CCI3*-S. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

India McEvoy and Ezara lead the CCI2*-L after phase one. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

Twin Rivers Spring International (CA): [Website] [Ride Times/Live Scores]

Badminton Entries Update: Popular US Pair Withdraw; Sweden Gets The Nod

By on Apr 15, 2022 3:00 pm -

Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

When it comes to entering Badminton, actually getting onto the list is nearly as much of a challenge as completing the tough course: each year, it attracts triple-figure entries and, with only 85 available spots, the competition is fierce for a spot on the startlist, which is allocated by FEI points. And so we all indulge in British Eventing’s finest sideline sport – waitlist watching. Generally speaking, we’ll expect to see at least 14 horses and riders make it in off the waitlist – that’s the minimum we’ve previously seen since the waitlist’s inception in 2008, though it’s no guarantee of this year’s final number.

So far, though, it’s been pretty slow going, and with the final substitution window closing on May 1 at 2pm, the sleepless nights have started for many riders stuck in limbo. So far, we’ve seen five waitlisted combinations make the cut – so let’s take a look at who’s gotten the nod and who’s waiting in the wings.

Sofia Sjoborg and DHI Mighty Dwight. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Our latest withdrawal comes from the USA’s Lauren Nicholson, who had entered the excellent Vermiculus as part of a strong American front this year. This is a particularly notable withdrawal because Vermiculus, or ‘Bug’, is owned by Jacqueline Mars of MARS Equestrian, who join the Badminton family as presenting sponsors this year. Lauren’s withdrawal allows Badminton debutants Sofia Sjoborg and DHI Mighty Dwight, who compete for Sweden and made their five-star debut at Pau last year, to take their place on the main list.

Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby. Photo by Abby Powell.

Prior to today, we’ve also seen British pair Alex Bragg and King of the Mill get the nod after the withdrawal of France’s Sidney Dufresne and Swing de Perdiat, while US pair Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby booked their plane tickets following the withdrawal of New Zealand Olympic pair Jonelle Price and Grovine de Reve. Britain’s James Sommerville and his stalwart partner Talent and Australia’s Bill Levett and the debutante Lates Quin have also been called up to replace American pair Sharon White and Cooley On Show and Australians Sammi Birch and Hunter Valley II. Belgium’s Constantin van Rijckevorsel and Beat It, who were first on the waitlist, have also withdrawn from contention.

This takes us to seventh on the waitlist, and next to take up their spots as starters – assuming we do see more withdrawals – will be Great Britain’s Nicky Hill and MGH Bingo Boy. Ireland’s Esib Power and Soladoun are second in the wings, while American duo Emily Hamel and Corvett will be third in order of priority currently. A total of 26 combinations remain waitlisted at the time of writing.

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: Four Prelim+ Horses Who Are Ready to Go

By on Apr 15, 2022 9:00 am -

In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN. We include the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and contact information.

Ready to tackle the green numbers on a horse with experience at the level? The four eventers we’re featuring this week are all solid at the Prelim level, some with potential for even more.

Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Talented 2* With Upper-level Potential!

Stunning 16.2 hh 7 yr. ISH mare (Future Trend x Cavalier Royale). Careful, scopey jump, and lovely correct gaits make for a super horse for the “Future”. “Bridgitte” has the type of temperament eventers dream of – smart and very trainable, super confident in her own ability, and sweet and quiet with that kind of upper level blood. This horse could be a YR’s dream come true to bring along, a professional’s addition to a very competitive string, or an amateur’s Prelim packer.

Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Perfect for Amateur eventer

‘Rush Himalaya’ (Maya) is an eye catching, 16.1, 8 year old imported Argentinian sport horse. Competed at Preliminary and the 1.10 jumpers in Argentina. Maya is smooth, uncomplicated and comfortable to ride, scoring mid-twenties in dressage. This sweet mare is the perfect horse for an amateur looking to get on and have fun. Maya is great around the barn and at shows, an easy keeper and loves to trail ride.

Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

DSL Tarquin

Quin is a solid prelim horse that has run intermediate successfully as well. Super fun and reliable guy. He is a 2012 Irish Sport Horse gelding by Puissance out is a 3* mare Aquila. 168 cm

This gelding is incredible brave and smart on his feet, with a great natural gallop and powerful jump. He would be ideal for a young rider coming up the ranks, or an older adult looking for a 100% reliable and safe partner. With an ambitious rider he is totally game to step up to intermediate as well.

Located in Co. Kildare Ireland, I am proud to be his representative in North America. I can help with all aspects of the purchase and import process. We are also happy to host you at the yard in Ireland if you wish.

2021 x rays on file for serious buyers.

Reach out today to learn more about this truly special horse!

Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

9 y/o 2* Event Mare For Sale

Mystic Hazzard
2013 17.2hh thoroughbred mare for sale.

Affectionately known as Haz in the barn, this mare is full of class and talent.
Haz has experience through the 2*/preliminary level, with a young rider, and shows the drive to continue progressing up the levels.
Flashy gaits, a floaty jump, and a feeling on cross country like no other; she quite literally hunts the flags out on course.

Haz is an athletic, young and eager mare and this is prevalent in her daily rides. While being the sweetest horse in the barn, she can be quite sensitive under-saddle and therefore is not well suited for a timid or amateur rider. Haz is a confident young professional’s dream!

Haz is extremely well loved, and will only be placed in the best new home.

Priced in the high 5 figures to match the caliber of this horse. Will consider reasonable offers to find the best new home for my special girl!
Sale is only due to the fact that I will be attending school in the near future and she’s too special to let sit on the back burner!
Text 443-878-3405 or pm for more info/loads of pictures or videos of this black beauty!
Currently located in Aiken, SC.

Listings included in this article are randomly selected and not confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.

Friday News & Notes Presented by Zoetis

By on Apr 15, 2022 12:03 am -

Just some foal spam for your Friday. Photo by Ame Hellman.

You’re welcome.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Ocala International Festival of Eventing (FL) [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Stabling] [Jog Order] [Scoring]
Twin Rivers Spring International (CA) [Website] [Entry List/Ride Times] [Schedule]
[Scoring]
Fair Hill International April H.T. & CCI-S (MD) [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Schedule] [Scoring]
FENCE H.T. (SC) [Website] [Entry Status] [Scoring]
Spring Bay H.T. (KY) [Website] [Ride Times] [Scoring]

News From Around the Globe:

We all began riding for the same reasons: the love of the horse and the love of the sport. Back then we spent as much time laughing as we did lunging and as much time smiling as we did circling. It wasn’t about the color of the ribbon, placement on a leaderboard, or worrying about beating or being beaten. Back then we spent more time feeling fun than frustrated and thought more about joy than judges. But what happens when this carefree fun begins to feel more like fear of failure and falling? [Pressure Proof with Daniel Stewart]

Michael Barisone is not guilty of attempted murder by reason of insanity in the shooting of Lauren Kanarek and not guilty of attempted murder of her boyfriend Robert Goodwin. It took more than three days for a 12-member jury in Morris County, New Jersey, to reach that conclusion. The jury, which began deliberations April 11, after hearing two weeks of testimony in the trial of the former Grand Prix dressage rider and trainer, also found Barisone not guilty by reason of insanity on a weapons charge against Kanarek and not guilty of aggravated assault or possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose against Goodwin. [Michael Barisone Cleared of All Charges]

Dom Schramm has his sights set high this year. With the incredibly athletic and feisty Bolytair B, he’s got Badminton as well as the World Championships in Italy on his horizons. If you ever appreciated anything Dom or Boly in your life, consider helping them a little as they accomplish their dreams. [Boly 4 Badminton]

Best of Blogs: Putting the Puzzle Together to Solve Behavioral Issues

Hot on Horse Nation: Equus Obscurus: Horse Armour 

Enjoy these happy bounces courtesy of Alyssa Phillips:

Thursday Video: Galway Downs Lower-Level Winner Spotlight

By on Apr 14, 2022 5:00 pm -

Galway Downs International H.T. took place earlier this month in Temecula, California, featuring divisions from Beginner Novice all the way up to CCI4*-S. While FEI divisions are captivating and watching professional riders can be a master class, we always love to give the lower levels plenty of love as well — especially the Rider and Amateur divisions. Oftentimes these competitors are juggling school, careers, family and much more, and that they’ve made space in their lives for the all-consuming sport that is eventing is inspiring.

Here are three winners — Raney Wolfers, Anastasia Keyser and Georgia Gobos — from Galway who we thought looked especially fantastic out there. Many thanks to Ride On Video for sharing! You can view complete Galway results here.

Training Rider: Raney Wolfers and Annabell (36.2)

Novice Amateur: Anastasia Keyser and Bellatrix (27.2)

Beginner Novice Rider: Georgia Gobos and Black Gold (30.0)

Go Eventing!

Volunteer Nation: 5 USEA Events That Could Use a Hand This Weekend

By on Apr 14, 2022 11:00 am -

 

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Calling all volunteers (and their pups)! There’s a lot going on this weekend out there in the great sovereign state of Eventing Nation, and that means we need all hands on deck to help.

Here are four events that are seeking volunteers. As always, you can earn merit points when you donate your time through the USEA’s Volunteer Incentive Program. Registering to volunteer through EventingVolunteers.com makes it easy and seamless to both find a job and shift as well as learn what your role will entail.

USEA Events

2022 Spring Bay HT

April 4th, 2022 to April 17th, 2022

Twin Rivers Spring International

April 14th, 2022 to April 17th, 2022

Fair Hill International – April Recognized Event [T, P, I, Adv, 2*, 3*, 4*]

April 8th, 2022 to April 18th, 2022

Longleaf Pine Horse Trial

April 13th, 2022 to April 19th, 2022

Ocala International Festival of Eventing

April 11th, 2022 to April 19th, 2022

Photo Feature: #GoEventing at Bouckaert International at Chatt Hills

By on Apr 14, 2022 9:00 am -

Holly Jacks-Smither and Candy King. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Sports photography is something I guess you could say I fell into. When I took a job in communications at the USEA, I found myself wielding a camera with not much clue how to use it. I still feel like that sometimes, but I have been lucky to have a lot of great mentors (and YouTube) to show me the way. As more of a “right brained” person, photography often feels creatively out of my league, but every once in a while I find magic. (You know what they say about blind squirrels…)

Over the weekend I followed the four-star competitors around the cross country course at Bouckaert Farm. Take a tour around to see the venue from my perspective.

For some real skill, please visit Liz Crawley Photography, the official photographer for the weekend. She had an amazing crew out shooting, and should have galleries up shortly.

Bouckaert International at Chattahoochee Hills: Website, Results, EN’s Coverage

Sara Kozumplik and Rubens D’ysieux. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Hawley Bennett Awad and Jollybo. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Andrew McConnon and Ferrie’s Chello. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Dan Kreitl and Carmango. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Jessica Phoenix and Wabbit. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Jessica Phoenix and Bogue Sound. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Mia Farley and BGS Firecracker. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Cosby Green and Highly Suspicious. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Dani Sussman and Jos Bravio. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Joe Meyer and Harbin. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Jessica Phoenix and Isla GS. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Woods Baughman and Hopak de Greenbay Z. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Thursday News & Notes Presented by Stable View

By on Apr 14, 2022 12:03 am -

Shameless self promotion because I think my horse is cute. Photo by Wenzhao Zhang.

For your mid-week brain puzzle, I give you the term Karma Yoga, which is “focusing on a task with no thought as to the outcome of that task”. This is a particularly interesting concept when it comes to training horses, as many of them require this type of zen mindset in order to become successful. This is what it takes to find joy in the smallest of steps forward, and the long term rewards that we find from the most successful partnerships. Ponder the Karma Yoga in your life on your next hack!

U.S. Weekend Preview:

News From Around the Globe:

Several weeks back, a video from a Mark Todd clinic circulated around the internet – it was a clip taken during a clinic, and it caused a lot of conversation and controversy on social media. This podcast is not about that video in particular, but the video did spark some reflection and larger conversations around what we deem acceptable in horse training, what we don’t, and how those standards are set and upheld. In this episode of Equestrian Voices, host Caroline Culbertson sits down with eventer Matt Brown, show jumper Anne Kursinski, and dressage rider Jeremy Steinberg to discuss. [What Does Doing Better Mean?]

Thoroughbreds are made for Eventing. Even though they don’t show the popularity they once did in the original days of our sport, the thoroughbred horse is still fantastically competitive and present at the highest levels of the sport at a consistent rate. Holly Payne is a fantastic lover of the breed, and explains in this article why she still prefers to ride thoroughbreds over some of the biggest tracks in the world. [An Argument for the Thoroughbred]

The equestrian community mourned the loss of a legend when eventer Gemma Tattersall announced the passing of her top horse Arctic Soul, who died at the age of 19 last week. Arctic Soul — an ex-racehorse by Luso known as “Spike” at home — was one of the greatest cross-country horses of all time, and he developed a formidable partnership with Gemma, which spanned over a decade. [9 Glorious Moments from Spike’s Career]

Sharon White advocates forming an identity as a self-confident leader in the relationship with your horse. No matter if you have a timid horse or a brash one, Sharon believes taking the role of leader will help. “The key to communicating with your horse, figuring out what he needs and letting him know what you want—in other words, making yourself the leader—is always the same: education and repetition”. [Become A Self Confident Leader]

Video:

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Get Ready for Fair Hill’s Spring CCI4*-S!

By on Apr 13, 2022 5:00 pm -

The first 4* of the season at Fair Hill International is coming up this weekend, and for many it’s one final prep for Kentucky or Badminton, while others are prepping for a 4*-L elsewhere or stepping up to this level for the first time.

You can preview the full entry list for this weekend’s Fair Hill International here. Want to head over to check out the action? The event can always use volunteers! Check out EventingVolunteers.com for opportunities.

Many thanks to YouTuber Emma for sending in this highlight reel from 2021! You can follow her on YouTube for more compilations here.

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