Evacuated horses mainly go to safer areas within Ukraine as many owners do not want their horses to leave the country. The first horses from Lysychansk arrived at the evacuation stable in Mirihoshcha which is 100% funded by the donations received by UEF – CF. Feed, bedding, and free accommodation are available for the horse owners and accompanying persons. This is only possible because of the kind donations from all around the world.
The UEF – CF has also this week received trucks of supplies and feed from several countries including Belgium, and Poland, and has now supplied over 80 stables in Ukraine. There are still ongoing needs for hay and bedding (wood shavings) and basic veterinary products — you can donate or offer help here.
The Ukrainian Equestrian Federation Charity Foundation, registered in Belgium, with assistance from the FEI (International Equestrian Federation) is supporting Ukrainian horse owners, riding schools, athletes, equestrian clubs, stables, and professionals. We give counselling support and other kinds of needs-based assistance on the ground, including mapping shelter options and assisting with the relocation of horses, gathering offers for goods and organising logistics to deliver goods to equestrians and their horses both in Ukraine and/or in their temporary locations in Europe. We monitor the situation with horses´ welfare and collaborate with FEI, the EEF, and many National Equestrian Federations.
Our promise is that as many funds as possible will be used as direct help for Ukrainian equestrians and their horses in Ukraine (by distributing feed, helping with evacuations and information).
Young riders are the future of our sport, quite literally, and nurturing their futures is key. The Wesko Equestrian Foundation, a non-profit organization founded in memory of Christina Knudsen, aims to bring education and training to talented young event riders, with the welfare of the horse and rider at the heart of the program.
As part of its continued expansion, the Foundation launched The Young Eventers Pathway in March to rave reviews from attending riders. Forty young event riders (between 21 and 28 years of age) were invited to two funded training days at the British Showjumping National Training Centre. Riders benefitted from expert coaching from Philip Surl, Richard Waygood MBE, Matt Lanni and Nikki Herbert, along with gaining access to the Foundation’s wider support team including expert business coach Sarah Armstrong, and Pilates coach Julie Driver.
“The whole day was really useful,” confirmed Norwegian international rider Yasmin Olsson-Sanderson, “being able to run through a test and practice a course of fences really sets you up for the season, as well as having access to business help at the same time. The day had a laid-back feel and made everyone feel welcome.”
Photo by Rose Lewis.
The recent two-day event welcomed riders from Novice level to those already successfully competing at CCI5* level.
“The opportunity to attend and watch training at that level is so valuable. It was not just the training though; it was the opportunity to sit and talk with riders of a similar level and age. Comparing the ups and downs of the sport and realising you’re not alone and others are going through the same experiences as you” commented 5* rider Imogen Murray.
The Pathway isn’t just aimed at professional young riders, with the second day targeted at those either just starting their career at Novice level or those younger riders looking to progress up the levels of eventing as amateurs.
Photo by Rose Lewis.
Nottinghamshire based rider Lucy Scholl commented, “I found the dressage session with Nikki Herbert extremely useful. She really helped iron out some small problems I’d been having. The jumping session was also very insightful, and I really enjoyed doing the cavaletti exercises before jumping a course of fences. I also found the Pilates session after I had ridden was good fun and informative.”
The Foundation now continues to plan for an increased number of Pathway Days throughout the year, working towards their goal of supporting an increased number of young event riders.
The Wesko Equestrian Foundation is a non-profit organisation founded in memory of Christina Knudsen and her passion for the sport of Eventing. The aim of the foundation is to bring education and training to talented young event riders to support their futures, with the welfare of the horse and rider at the heart of the programme.
The Foundation’s riders receive mentoring and in-depth training from one of the world’s most decorated eventing riders, Pippa Funnell, along with former Team GBR World Class Performance Manager, Yogi Breisner. The programme also includes a 360-degree education programme in partnership with A Young Riders Academy.
The Wesko Equestrian Foundation has played a key role in supporting the careers of several young riders over the past three years, including the recent successes of Blenheim Palace International CCI4*L winner Yasmin Ingham (GBR), and 3rd placed Susie Berry (IRL).
Time for a new round of Who Jumped It Best? This edition comes to us from The Fork at Tryon International, where Amber Heintzberger was our eyes on the ground for the 4*-S competition. We’ve got a smattering of shots from the 4*-S and Advanced divisions ready for your votes!
Cast your vote in the poll below for the pair that presents the best overall picture. Yes, we know a photo only captures one moment but hey, let’s have a little fun!
Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Be Cool. Photo by Amber Heintzberger.
Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire. Photo by Amber Heintzberger.
Doug Payne and Camarillo. Photo by Amber Heintzberger.
Dom Schramm and Bolytair B. Photo by Amber Heintzberger.
Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg TSF. Photo by Amber Heintzberger.
Phillip Dutton and Z. Photo by Amber Heintzberger.
Colleen Loach and FE Golden Eye. Photo by Amber Heintzberger.
The retirement of Mr Bass, Laura Collett‘s much-loved partner-in-crime, was a real bummer in the latter half of last year – but hang on, are those his ears we’ve seen Laura snapping on her Instagram stories?! That’s right: Chuck Bass is back, baby – well, sort of! We probably won’t ever see the quirky, cool gelding in competition again, but he’s loving life at home acting as Laura’s in-house therapist and ‘hobby horse’. We love that for him (and for Laura, too)! If anyone needs us, we’ll just be here, patiently waiting for our turn for a go.
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!
The horse world would fall apart without the hard work of the grooms who make the magic happen. But while we’ve all shelled out our hard-earned money for plenty of riding lessons over the years, how do you actually get the required training to excel in this career path? There’s on-the-job learning, of course, but even better is guided education – such as this clinic and presentation by David O’Connor, who taught groundwork and horsemanship skills to a rapt audience.
Need a podcast for today’s mucking out session? The newest episode of the Sidelines Podcast features an interview with Doug and Jess Payne that’ll give you a good boost to get the day going.
Video Break:
Go grassroots eventing in the UK with young rider Flo Carter, who tackled the BE100 (Training) class at Portman Horse Trials.
A little “what am I even looking at?” abstract art to go with your morning coffee. Photo by Leslie Wylie.
I know things can get intense when you’re in the thick of competition season, but a friendly reminder that it’s OK — healthy, even! — to just go for a meandering stroll some days. Take a deep breath and hit the trail, where you both can allow your bodies to relax and your minds to wander. I’ve been working part-time as a horseback trail guide for the past year or so, and spending so much time in the woods has really re-anchored me to what drew me to horses in the first place. It’s helped me be more present both in and out of the saddle.
Your News & Notes:
Volunteers make the eventing world go ’round. The third installment of LRK3DE’s volunteer spotlight series celebrates Sheila Woerth, Course Decoration Chief Steward; Debbie Hinkle, XC Hospitality co-Chief Steward; Thomas Gable, Chief Farrier; and Carolyn A. Borgert – Chief of Fence Judges, Communicators, Stopping stewards & Interior Crossing Guards. [Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Volunteers – Part 3]
Eventers will sleep pretty much anywhere to avoid the expense of a hotel, with our horse trailers often being the most convenient option. Maybe it’s time to level up! Adding living quarters to your bumper pull trailer takes careful planning but can be a gratifying DIY project. [Convert Your Bumper Pull Horse Trailer Tack Room into DIY Living Quarters]
As with so many things concerning horses, it takes a real village to make an event happen — especially one as big as the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event. In episode three of the beautifully produced Behind the Barn series, this time presented by Southern California Equestrian Sports, some of our favorite riders were asked which of the many jobs at LRK3DE they would most like to take if they weren’t riding.
Which rider would like to be the Saturday night entertainment? Who wishes they could re-live their Pony Club years and get to open the arena at A? Who wants to still be be in the saddle on Saturday as an outrider? And who would most like to be behind the bar in the VIP tent? Find out in this video!
How about you, EN fam? What job would you want to do at LRK3DE? Let us know in the comments!
Dom Schramm and Bolytair B understood the show jumping assignment. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
There is something special about a captured moment. I know that sounds immensely lame, but if you think about it, it’s true! As much as video content has taken off and become the most-consumed media format, I think I’ll always gravitate towards a beautiful photo. Our latest featured photographer is none other than Shannon Brinkman, who can most frequently be found at some of the largest international competitions all over the globe. The woman has visited more Olympic Games, more World Equestrian Games, and more venues than I’ll probably ever see and it’s fascinating to hear her talk about her world travels — or to view them through her work!
Shannon was the official event photographer at The Fork at Tryon International this weekend, and her all-star team captured shots from all levels competing. If you competed at The Fork this weekend, you can order your show photos from Shannon here — and keep an eye on her website and Facebook for more updates on where to find her next.
And let’s flip through a few of our favorite shots from this weekend:
Will Coleman and Off the Record are Kentucky bound after another solid prep run this weekend. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
Doug Payne and Starr Witness strut their stuff in dressage. Photo by Alison Green for Shannon Brinkman Photography.
A dog jog? Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
Doug Hannum just out for a casual stroll. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
Doug Payne and Vandiver cruise to the 4*-S win. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
Epic focus from Doug and Quantum Leap under the lights during show jumping. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
“Four off the floor” with Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
Tamie Smith and Elliot V coming down for landing. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
Jana Lyle and Philena take in the dressage scenes. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
Samantha Tinney gives a pat to Glenbrook Cooley after a double clear show jumping effort. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
Diving right in to another weekend of eventing results, and it was a busy one! With two international events and a handful of national events running, eventers were out getting their fix in full force. Our Unofficial Low Score Award winner this week is Carla Jimmerson, who won her Beginner Novice division at Bouckaert Farm/Chatt Hills with her six-year-old Connemara cross gelding, BDF Tag You’re It. Also, a special shout-out to Sophia Middlebrook and Monbeg Odyssey, who earned a 19.8 to win their Modified division also at Bouckaert Farm this weekend. Nicely done!
CCI4*-S: Doug Payne and Vandiver (30.8)
CCI3*-S: Morgan Batton and I’M Sew Ready (33.2)
CCI2*-S: Doug Payne and Fenix Rouge Du Claux (29.9)
CCI1*-S: Marissa Griffin and Conguistador (28.7)
Advanced A: Will Coleman and DonDante (40.5)
Advanced B: Tamie Smith and Mai Baum (23.9)
Open Intermediate: Solomon Edwards and Urlanmore Beauty (40.6)
Open Preliminary: Megan Sykes and Classic’s Mojah (26.3)
Modified: Julie Fanello and FE Clooney (26.8)
Open Training: Adalee Ladwig and Argenta MSF (28.5)
Training Rider: Isabelle Blair and Get It Together (30.8)
Novice Rider A: Cierra Goldstein and Cashetta (31.4)
Novice Rider B: Mary Ellen Sanger and Escariz Du Rona (33.1)
Open Novice: Bridgette Miller and Billy Avon (27.5)
Beginner Novice Rider: Anna Wallace and Kalaska (22.9)
Open Beginner Novice: Deborah Snyder and Ten Indian (24.7)
CCI4*-S: Dana Cooke and FE Mississippi (33.0)
CCI3*-S: Andrew McConnon and D’Luxe Steel (32.9)
CCI2*-S: Lauren Lambert and Biscotti (30.7)
CCI1*-S: Kate Sand and Bourbon (39.3)
Advanced: Allie Knowles and Business Class (34.7)
Open Intermediate: Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot (33.2)
Open Preliminary: Waylon Roberts and Mighty Finn (25.4)
Preliminary Rider: Breeana Robinette and The Dark Mark (33.7)
Modified Rider: Breeana Robinette and Cape Kimberly (33.5)
Open Modified: Sophia Middlebrook and Monbeg Odyssey (19.8)
Jr. Training: Sydney Jordan and Cast Away (32.2)
Open Training A: Jenny Caras and Redfield Splash of Cream (29.0)
Open Training B: Emeline Gilbert and EWSZ Mozart (29.2)
Sr. Training: Logan Harris and Ballygriffin Cool Guy (35.0)
Jr. Novice: Lendy Johnston and Endless Possibilities (31.4)
Open Novice: Werner Geven and Caheradoo Jack (32.2)
Sr. Novice Rider: Jennifer Boshart and Blaze of Charm (31.7)
Jr. Beginner Novice: Madison Zgutowicz and My Valentine (32.9)
Open Beginner Novice: Carla Jimmerson and BDF Tag You’re It (19.4)
Sr. Beginner Novice: Katharina Huenermann and Targaryen TWF (40.2)
CDCTA Spring H.T. (Berryville, Va.): [Final Scores]
Open Preliminary: Chris Talley and Rappahannock (30.5)
Open Training 1: Sophie Ann Stremple and Street Fighting (31.4)
Open Training 2: Sam Hellerman and Roheryn (35.7)
Open Novice 1: Martin Douzant and Nuclear Code (34.7)
Open Novice 2: Claire Anne and Get Serious (32.2)
Open Beginner Novice 1: Danielle Poulson and What’s Happening (28.2)
Open Beginner Novice 2: Danielle Poulson and After Dark (33.5)
Jr. Beginner Novice: Sutton Wetcher and Good JuJu (34.0)
Intro: Suzanne Cornue and Aiken on Tap (37.7)
Pine Hill Spring H.T. (Bellville, Tx.): [Live Scores]
Open Training: Scarlett Peinado and 50 Shades of Envy (37.1)
Open Novice A: Emily Wilson and King Pony (28.1)
Open Novice B: Eva Hemb and Lexington Hall’s Bentley (31.3)
Open Novice C: Payton McBee and Mine Four Keeps (33.6)
Open Beginner Novice A: Sierra Fishell and Regal Regon (22.9)
Open Beginner Novice B: Michelle Kennedy and Right Swipe (25.9)
Open Beginner Novice C: Hannah Elbert and Southern Chrome (29.4)
Open Starter A: Marissa Corcoran and Robin (29.0)
Open Starter B: Megan Correia-Bittner and GINO (32.3)
Completed my first event with Ben today at The Maryland Horse Trials @ Loch Moy Farm to finish on our dressage score of 35.9 in 6th place! Relaxed dressage test but he perks up when the jumps come out 😂 such a thrilling experience to come out of the start box sitting on this much power and enthusiam!
There isn’t much better than seeing former upper-level horses thriving even after the peak of their careers has subsided. One such horse eagerly taking to his new role as “professor” is Ema Klugman’s former 5* partner, Bendigo, who at 20 years old has embraced his job with as much gusto as he did attacking the biggest tracks in the country. Only this time, he’s got amateur rider Julie Anne Bigham in the irons, testing the eventing waters for the first time this weekend with Bendigo as her partner.
“It’s been really fun to help [Julie and Ben] develop a partnership,” Ema commented. Bendigo is leased but still lives at Ema’s farm. “I still get to hang out with Ben all the time and he is happy that he gets to be out jumping all the things, although they are a little smaller now. He put me on the map and gave me a taste of the top level, so seeing him happy makes me very, very happy.”
Ema Klugman and Bendigo competing at Kentucky in 2021. Photo by Sally Spickard.
If you know of a former top-level horse we should catch up with, tip us by emailing [email protected]!
This series is brought to you with support from Zoetis Equine:Your horse is your everything, and when it comes to his care, you want to do what’s right. We’re here to help all horses live happier, healthier lives by connecting you with the equine care solutions, guidance and resources you need.
Werner Geven gives the camera a grin on his way to the Open Novice win at Bouckaert. Photo by Shelby Allen.
Isn’t it nice to find ourselves back in that whirlwind time of year, wherein every weekend is chock-full of events and preparations for our two (two!!) traditional spring five-stars? I’m heading to Badminton tomorrow on behalf of EN to get a first look at the course to come, and suddenly, life feels so full of possibility again. Spring has sprung after a two-year winter – and yes, I’ve really had to stop myself from writing ‘winter of the soul’ there – and it’s a joy now to bask in the sunshine of everyone’s palpable excitement. Roll on the adventures!
National Holiday: It’s National Barbershop Quartet Day. It’s probably best to stay at home today, just in case of celebratory flash mobs.
Though the USA’s two four-stars over the weekend dominated eventing headlines, Europe was well-represented too, with Poland’s popular Strzegom Horse Trials hosting its (admittedly chilly) Spring Open. The feature CCI4*-S class was ably taken by Sweden’s Christoffer Forsberg (a strong contender for the tallest man on the circuit, quite frankly) and Hippo’s Sapporo, pinching the win from Germany’s Nicholai Aldinger and Timmo after delivering the only clear inside the time on the cross-country course. Sweden also rounded out the top three, with Frida Andersen taking third on Box Leo.
Meanwhile, the CCI3*-S podium was wholly filled by Dutch women: Olympic stalwart Merel Blom took first and second place, riding Corminta Vom Gwick and Vesuve d’Aveyron, respectively, while Sanne de Jong took third with her Le Lion ride Jersey MBF.
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.
What’s life like for a young up-and-coming professional in the Netherlands? Follow Sanne de Jong‘s journey with her exciting team of horses and find out!
Morning Viewing:
In memory of the exceptional Arctic Soul, who sadly died over the weekend, we’re looking back fondly on old memories — including his lightning fast effort at Gatcombe in 2017, where he and Gemma became the British Open Champions.
