Classic Eventing Nation

Milestone Moments for FEI Winners at Twin Rivers Spring International

By on Apr 13, 2026 1:15 pm -

A victory in an international eventing competition sanctioned by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) is always reason to celebrate, but for winners of the FEI levels at the 2026 Twin Rivers Spring International in Paso Robles, Calif. from April 9 to 12, they were also career-defining moments.

Karen O’Neal will be able to look back on her win in the CCI4*-S as the event that got her and Clooney 14 in their best form for the biggest moment of their careers coming next at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event later this month. More than 40 years after her first international event as part of the Young Riders Program in 1985, O’Neal, 55, will be making her five-star debut, thanks to her partnership with a horse that she started at the Beginner Novice level back in 2018 .

In addition, Twin Rivers’ CCI3*-L represented the first FEI win for Miss Tique and the first at the three-star level for the mare’s rider, Mickayla Howard. Imhotep de Kreisker notched his first FEI victory in the CCI2*-L ridden by Marc Grandia less than a year into the horse’s eventing career in America. The CCI2*-S was a win by Sportsfield Supernatural in the horse’s FEI debut, and it came less than a year after Sara Sellmer started competing him at Training level.

At the same time, James Alliston, a veteran at developing young horses up the levels, continued the consistent results of Made By Leontine EB by winning the CCI3*-S, their 12th top-two finish in a row dating back to this event last year. The same can be said for Amber Birtcil and Prince of Oolde, who notched their second FEI win in a row in the CCI1*-L.

CCI4*-S: Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14

Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14. Photo by Emma Gray for Atalya Boytner Photography.

O’Neal said she’s wanted to ride at the sport’s highest level ever since she won the USEA Area 10 Preliminary Championships at the age of 14 in 1985, and she’ll now get the shot with Clooney 14.

“I wanted to go to the top of the sport back then, very much so—it was like a dream,” she said. “It was a goal, and as life happened and I got married and had kids and had to support the family with my training business, it wavered.”

Her career has reached new heights since partnering with Annika Asling’s 2014 bay Westphalian gelding (Captain Jack 44 x Zauberfee).

“It takes a long time to get to this level, and I never thought Clooney would get to this level,” she said. “He just seemed more of a slower type horse, so it’s been very fun and rewarding to see him rise to this level. I’ve always wanted to do it, and I’m not getting any younger.”

O’Neal and “Cloonbear” won their first FEI event in the CCI2*-S at Aspen Farm in their home state of Washington in 2022, the first FEI event Clooney had done in three years and her first FEI victory in 11 years.

Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14. Photo by Atalya Boytner Photography.

They moved up to four-star in 2024 and have won four-star competitions at Aspen Farm in its 2024 CCI4*-S, at Galway in California in its 2025 CCI4*-L, and now Twin Rivers in the 2026 CCI4*-S, an event that has traditionally been a prep for West Coast horses and riders for the Kentucky five-star and also serves as a qualifier in the US Equestrian Open Series on the road to the $200,000 final at Morven in Virginia in October.

In their final tune-up before Kentucky, the pair led after a dressage score of 29.2. “A big one was my dressage,” O’Neal said about a highlight of the weekend. “It’s starting to click a little bit, and it feels now like we’re riding it and not just surviving it,” she added with a chuckle. “He was really good, obedient, soft, quiet, and rideable.”

They went double clear on Maja Lindemann’s show jumping course, and jumped clear while adding 16.4 time penalties on Morgan Rowsell’s cross-country course for a finishing score of 45.6.

“I took my time on cross-country,” O’Neal said. “I just wanted to have a nice clean run before getting ready for Kentucky and not pound his legs too much. So, we went a little slower cross-country, but he was really good cross-country, too.”

O’Neal admitted to being “nervous, to say the least” before her first five-star. “I’m still a little unsure what it’s going to look like,” she said. “I’m excited to go. I’m excited to be able to do the sport at this level and have the help I’ve been getting. It’s just an amazing journey.”

CCI3*-L: Mickayla Howard and Miss Tique

Mickayla Howard and Miss Tique. Photo by Emma Gray for Atalya Boytner Photography.

Less than a month since winning her first FEI event in the CCI2*-S at Galway with HHS Ontario (Can Ya Makan x La Juanita), Howard piloted Miss Tique (Graf Top x Miss Calido) to the mare’s first FEI victory and Howard’s first at the three-star level. In the CCI3*-L at Twin Rivers, they went double clear on Adri Doyal’s cross-country course and added a rail in show jumping to finish with a score of 41.7.

The 2017 bay mare registered with the Anglo European Studbook first competed with Howard at the Novice level at the Twin Rivers Winter Horse Trials in 2023. They won the Preliminary Rider division at the Twin Rivers Spring International in 2024.

CCI3*-S: James Alliston and Made by Leontine EB

James Alliston and Made By Leontine EB. Photo by Emma Gray for Atalya Boytner Photography.

In 12 events in 12 months since the 2025 Twin Rivers Spring International, James Alliston and Made by Leontine EB have a record worthy of the horse’s name that means “lion-hearted”—five victories and seven seconds with zero jumping penalties and finishing 10 events on their dressage score. They won the Open Preliminary national championship at the 2025 American Eventing Championships at Galway, as well as the Intermediate debut for the 2017 bay Dutch Warmblood gelding (Casago x Jackpot E.R.) owned by Arnell Sporthorses at the 2025 Woodside Fall International in California.

“He’s always very competitive,” Alliston said. “He does every phase nice and consistent. He’s very relaxed in general.”

After two reserve championships at the two-star level, Made by Leontine EB moved up to three star and won the CCI3*-S on his dressage score of the 28.4 at the 2026 Twin Rivers Spring International.

“The dressage has proven to be pretty reliable up to this point, like he just goes in and does his test and doesn’t get too wound up,” Alliston said. “Then, he’s a really good show jumper. He’s very careful, doesn’t want to touch the poles. So, he seems to be, touch wood, pretty reliable.”

CCI2*-L: Marc Grandia and Imhotep de Kreisker

Marc Grandia and Imhotep De Kreisker. Photo by Tanner Messer for Atalya Boytner Photography.

The well-bred 2018 bay Selle Francais gelding Imhotep de Kreisker (Cornet Obolensky x Sunlight de Kreisker) had some show jumping and eventing experience in his home country of Ireland before being acquired by Team Rebecca to be produced by Grandia. His older full-sister Guenievre de Kreisker has competed in FEI show jumping competitions in France and Spain up to 1.45 meters.

Imhotep de Kreisker has blossomed in less than a year competing with Grandia in the United States, culminating in his first career blue ribbon in his first FEI victory in the CCI2*-L at Twin Rivers.

“He’s a funny guy,” is how Grandia described him. “He’s really easygoing. He’s always known he’s a champion. That’s what we’ve been laughing about today because now everyone else knows. He’s really easygoing but also really cocky and doesn’t like being told what to do.”

In addition to his raw athleticism, Grandia appreciates the horse’s personality, saying “We kind of hit it off and got on the same page pretty early. That’s not to say he hasn’t bucked me off a good number of times, but that’s part of what I like about him. He’s got a cheeky side, so, yeah, we’ve just hit it off.”

Grandia said their goal for 2026 would be the CCI3*-L to be held at Fair Hill in Maryland.

CCI2*-S: Sara Sellmer and Sportsfield Supernatural

Sara Sellmer and Sportsfield Supernatural. Photo by Emma Gray for Atalya Boytner Photography.

The original plan for Sellmer with Sportsfield Supernatural was for the Canadian rider to sell the young 2019 bay Irish Sport Horse gelding (Caricello x Copacabana) as a show jumper last year. Instead, Sam Quinn bought “Griffin” with the intention that Sellmer would keep the ride and hopefully, eventually get her first shot at the five-star level.

“I fell in love with him, and one of my clients and really good friends ended up buying him for me to see if we can go up the levels and see how far he’ll go,” Sellmer said. “I was a little heartbroken that I was going to have to say goodbye to him, so Sam and I talked and I said I think Griffin is the real deal. She totally bought in.”

In his first FEI event in the CCI2*-S at Twin Rivers, Griffin won with a dressage score of 31.4, just edging Amber Birtcil and Mississipi (Falaise de Muze x Coniek).

“He’s a really good jumper, and we’ve been working on his fitness,” Sellmer said. “His dressage has come along really quickly. We’ve been down at Galway Downs since January. We winter here from Canada. He’s made huge progress in the last few months.”

Over the next few months, they’ll return to Canada and compete in FEI events in Washington and Montana. Long term, “Ultimately, we’d like to go five-star with him, that’s the plan,” Sellmer said.

“He’s a really good event horse,” she said. “He’s got the gallop. He’s got the jump. He’s got the heart. He can move. He’s really a quiet soul, but when he gets lit up, he can be quite a lot. I think I’ve sort of met my match as far as a horse than can intimidate me a little bit at times. He’s got all the makings of being a top horse.”

CCI1*-L: Amber Birtcil and Prince of Oolde

Amber Birtcil and Prince of Oolde. Photo by Atalya Boytner Photography.

Coming off their reserve championship in the USEA Young Event Horse West Coast 5-Year-Old Championship held at Twin Rivers in 2025, Birtcil debuted Prince of Oolde in FEI competition at the one-star level in 2026. They won the CCI1*-S at Galway at the end of March and followed that up with a win in the CCI1*-L at Twin Rivers, finishing on their dressage score of 25.3.

CCI4*-CT: Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z

Twin Rivers also held a four-star combined test that featured two veterans at the upper levels. That’s Me Z (Take A Chance On Me Z x Venetia) and Tommy Greengard, the 2025 Advanced national champions at the 2025 American Eventing Championships, had no rails in show jumping and finished first with a score of 31.4. HMR Rolan and Alliston, the 2025 Intermediate national champions and winners of two four-stars, had one rail for a finishing score of 34.8. Both horses are entered in the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S at the Kentucky Horse Park at the end of the month.

What’s Next at Twin Rivers

Audrey Sanborn and Lex D, second in the CCI4*-S. Photo by Tanner Messer for Atalya Boytner Photography/

Twin Rivers Ranch is scheduled to host the Twin Rivers Summer H.T. from June 25-28, the Twin Rivers Fall International from Sept. 17-20, and the USEA YEH West Coast Championships & Last Chance Qualifier from Oct. 22-24.

The full list of winners from the 2026 Twin Rivers Spring International:

CCI4*-S: Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14 (45.6)
CCI3*-L: Mickayla Howard and Miss Tique (41.7)
CCI3*-S: James Alliston and Made by Leontine EB (28.4)
CCI2*-L: Marc Grandia and Imhotep de Kreisker (31.7)
CCI2*-S: Sara Sellmer and Sportsfield Supernatural (31.4)
CCI1*-L: Amber Birtcil and Prince of Oolde (25.3)
CCI4*-CT: Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z (31.4)
Advanced/Intermediate: Gina Economou and Cooley By Design (150.0)
Open Intermediate: Tommy Greengard and Balladeer Kilbrickens Lad (28.5)
Open Preliminary: Jordan Linstedt and Cooley High Society (29.3)
Open Modified: Sophie Tice and Viva La Vida (30.0)
Modified Rider: Teresa Harcourt and Csongor (30.0)
Open Training: Chloe Smyth and SR Myconos (31.8)
Sr. Training Rider: Lisa Peecook and SZ Raudo (27.0)
Jr. Training Rider: Kennedy Wiklund and Juste Capitaine (30.5)
Sr. Training Amateur: Emily Christen and Orczy (34.5)
Training Horse: Katherine Robinson and Party Favor (27.5)
Open Novice: Mia Brown and Pegasus Le Coq Au Vin (26.1)
Sr. Novice Rider: Dede McCoy and Dune DeHeir (23.9)
Jr. Novice Rider: Samantha Ehrlich and Midnight Endeavour (22.3)
Sr. Novice Amateur: Kayleen Crowley and Just Jam (29.7)
Novice Horse: Amber Birtcil and Red-Rag VDL (36.8)
Open Beginner Novice: Jennifer Plassmeier and RD Smokin Sugarfoot (28.2)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider A: Jessica Bielenberg and Meant To Bee (23.8)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider B: Lee Ramensky and Cashelbay Autumn Bloom (34.9)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider: Kaitlyn Favero and Hallelujah DF (25.6)
Open Starter: Lucinde Van Brakel and Jamaica (25.6)
Sr. Starter Rider: Julie Brookman and Cascorado (35.3)
Jr. Starter Rider: Brynn Miura and Lausbub Z (33.4)

Twin Rivers Spring International (CA, USA): [Website] [Scores] 

Weekend Winners: Twin Rivers, Longleaf Pine, Unionville, Poplar Place, FENCE, Pine Hill, & Spring Bay

By on Apr 13, 2026 12:00 pm -

Wow! What a busy weekend to catch up on… good thing we have a recap here as we jump into the new week, still enjoying the action from Twin Rivers, Longleaf Pine, Unionville, Poplar Place, FENCE, Pine Hill, and Spring Bay!

Congrats to all of our Weekend Winners from this massive weekend! We’re celebrating many successful outings here, as well as giving a big shout out to the winner of our Unofficial Low Score Award: Kirsten Hiles and Beatrix SWF, who won the Green as Grass CT at Longleaf Pine on an impressive 19.7!

Twin Rivers Spring International (CA, USA): [Website][Scoring]

CCI 4*S: Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14 (45.6)
CCI 3*L: Mickayla Howard and Miss Tique (41.7)
CCI 3*S: James Alliston and Made by Leontine EB (28.4)
CCI 2*L: Marc Grandia and Imhotep de Kreisker (31.7)
CCI 2*S: Sara Sellmer and Sportsfield Supernatural (31.4)
CCI 1*L: Amber Birtcil and Prince of Oolde (25.3)
4*A CT: Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z (31.4)
Advanced/Intermediate: Gina Economou and Cooley By Design (150.0)
Open Intermediate: Tommy Greengard and Balladeer Kilbrickens Lad (28.5)
Open Preliminary: Jordan Linstedt and Cooley High Society (29.3)
Open Modified: Sophie Tice and Viva La Vida (30.0)
Modified Rider: Teresa Harcourt and Csongor (30.0)
Junior Training Rider: Kennedy Wiklund and Juste Capitaine (30.5)
Senior Training Rider: Lisa Peecook and SZ Raudo (27.0)
Senior Training Amateur: Emily Christen and ORCZY (34.5)
Open Training: Chloe Smyth and SR Myconos (31.8)
Training Horse: Katherine Robinson and Party Favor (27.5)
Junior Novice Rider: Samantha Ehrlich and Midnight Endeavour (22.3)
Senior Novice Rider: Dede McCoy and Dune DeHeir (23.9)
Senior Novice Amateur: Kayleen Crowley and Just Jam (29.7)
Open Novice: Mia Brown and Pegasus Le Coq Au Vin (26.1)
Novice Horse: Amber Birtcil and Red-Rag VDL (36.8)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Kaitlyn Favero and Hallelujah DF (25.6)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider A: Jessica Bielenberg and Meant To Bee (23.8)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider B: Lee Ramensky and *Cashelbay Autumn Bloom (34.9)
Open Beginner Novice: Jennifer Plassmeier and RD Smokin Sugarfoot (28.2)
Junior Starter Rider: Brynn Miura and Lausbub Z (33.4)
Senior Starter Rider: Julie Brookman and CASCORADO (35.3)
Open Starter: Lucinde Van Brakel and Jamaica (25.6)

Longleaf Pine HT (NC): [Website][Scoring]

Intermediate – CT: Ariel Grald and Obalix (29.3)
Open Preliminary: Jeff Beshear and Storm Is Due (34.4)
Preliminary – CT: Ariel Grald and Kiltar Midnight Rendezvous (39.6)
Preliminary Rider: Morgan Hiller and Junkanoo (37.3)
Modified – CT: Susan Plumb and Cooley All In (30.7)
Modified Rider: Julia Beamish and ORS Deejay (30.7)
Open Modified: Ariel Grald and Cullintra End Game (23.5)
Open Training: Kathy Cain and Midnight Moonshine (31.3)
Training – CT: Jessica Cloeter and Alamo City (41.4)
Training Rider A: Morgan Getchell and Fernhill Famous (30.9)
Training Rider B: Katherine Thornton and Carlingford Castle (30.3)
Novice – CT: Eliza Klaitman and Tekkenistic (30.9)
Novice Rider A: Lucy Leff and Amarillo (30.6)
Novice Rider B: Phyllis Hardgrove and Cooley Castle (30.6)
Novice Rider Junior: Summer Kernodle and Reloaded (32.3)
Open Novice A: Rachel Jurgens and Heck (27.3)
Open Novice B: Ariel Grald and Karino (21.2)
Beginner Novice – CT: Leslie LaBraque and Tiarnan Talun Diamond (25.6)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Madison Woschkolup and LH It’s Bo Time (33.8)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Megan Yindra and My First Rodeo (30.0)
Beginner Novice Rider Junior: Penelope Devins and Captain Shadow (31.3)
Open Beginner Novice: Olivia Coolidge and Bold Impression (27.8)
Starter A: Kayla Victor and Agent 99 (30.9)
Starter B: Shannon Bower and Speak Softly (30.3)
Starter – CT: Sara Tessier and Lisdara HSH (29.7)
Starter Junior: Lillian York and Rowdy Revolution (30.4)
Beginner Novice Three Day: Jennifer Patterson and Iron Colony (35.3)
Green as Grass: Katie Spross and Championship Alley (41.3)
Green as Grass CT: Kirsten Hiles and Beatrix SWF (19.7)
Novice Three Day: Morgan Hiller and Silly Wabbitt (29.0)

Unionville HT (PA): [Website][Scoring]

Open Intermediate: Ema Klugman and RF Redfern (32.5)
Open Preliminary: Abigail Cochran and Mixologeigh (29.4)
Preliminary Rider: Rylie Nelson and Galloway Sunrise (39.0)
Modified: Lisa Marie Fergusson and Briarhill Excel Star Cornetta (25.5)
Open Training: Ashley Thorp and Dassett Olympus (24.3)
Training Rider: Kendal Fansler and Milchem Giovanni (34.5)
Novice Rider: Brielle Rainsberg and Riley (28.6)
Open Novice A: Daniel Clasing and Chesterland’s Mrs Witter (24.4)
Open Novice B: Erin Kanara and Fame (22.8)
Beginner Novice Rider: Sarah Reese and Nugget (24.7)
Open Beginner Novice: Aneesa Romans and Kasarah (34.1)
Starter: Karen Rubin and Pax (22.3)

Poplar Place April HT (GA): [Website][Scoring]

Open Preliminary: Melanie Smith and Shakedown Street (34.5)
Modified: Kelly Leihy and Indymoodforlovin (44.7)
Open Training: Melanie Smith and Cavalier Rendezvous (29.8)
Training Rider: Megan Lichty and TBS Declan Pondi (29.3)
Novice Rider: Abby Adams and Newmarket Caro (31.1)
Open Novice: Julie Richards and Herkules 281 (32.2)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Raegan Hornfeck and Gawain (29.4)
Open Beginner Novice: Sallie Johnson and Fernhill Money Talks (21.8)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider: Alison Kroviak and Chromatic (32.3)
Starter: Reagan Gibson and Ardeo On A Mission (32.1)
Starter Junior: Mary Shea and VR Any Given Sunday (31.8)

F.E.N.C.E. HT (NC): [Website][Scoring]

Open Preliminary: Amy Cobb and Clever Soul (29.7)
Open Training: Jennifer Helgren and Del Rio (26.2)
Preliminary/Training: Jordan Crabo and Cooley Margarita (44.2)
Training Rider: Rebecca Barron and Grenadier Guard (32.5)
Novice Rider A: Laura Sweet and Strength of Ten Bears (23.9)
Novice Rider B: Abby Buenting and Calvin (29.8)
Open Novice: Miranda Donnelly and Rockstar Parking (26.4)
Training/Novice: Coti Yandle and Davino (27.6)
Beginner Novice Rider: Maya Carless and I Solemnly Swear…… (32.1)
Open Beginner Novice: Zoe Crawford and Brooklyn (26.5)
Introductory: Chloe Franceschi Malucelli and Sweet as Honey (36.8)
Starter A: Scarlett Congedo and Straight on Till Morning (26.2)
Starter B: Ruth Siegfried and Frederik van de Elsakker (29.7)

Pine Hill Spring HT (TX): [Website][Scoring]

HT-Preliminary-Open: Millie Rackley and The Royal Dub (48.0)
HT-Training-Open A: Darcy Barnett and Heza Silver Haze (29.0)
HT-Training-Open B: Shelby Owen and GTB Felix Felicis (25.5)
HT-Novice-Open A: Katie Carney and Talk of Texas (24.4)
HT-Novice-Open B: Savannah Ware and Machen of the Hill (23.5)
HT-Beginner Novice-Open A: Megan Correia-Bittner and Lamborghini (28.2)
HT-Beginner Novice-Open B: Grace Fahrenbruch and My Mexico (30.3)
HT-Starter-Open A: Megan Correia-Bittner and Brewster (31.5)
HT-Starter-Open B Provisional Scores: Milana Nefedova andRivendell’s Top Secret Sparrow (27.9)

Spring Bay HT (KY): [Website][Scoring]

Open Preliminary/Modified: Eleanor Winter and Mosstown Rebel (28.7)
Open Modified: Madison Temkin and Boley’s Maximum (29.5)
Open Training: Irene Lampton and Rock on Cooley (27.3)
Training Rider 1: Hayden Drager and Winnsome (35.3)
Training Rider 2: Abigail Walker and The Optimist (24.8)
Open Training / Novice: Simone Cardosa and I’d Toast to That! (27.0)
Novice Rider 1: Lenora Evans and Christian Grey (26.7)
Novice Rider 2: Grace Ambrose and Fernhill For Treasure Z (25.6)
Novice Rider Junior: Zoë Rizzuto and The Wellerman (22.5)
Open Novice 1: Hannah Reeser and Ltl Ireland Summr Soldier (22.8)
Open Novice 2: Chelsea Garrison and Freddie Mercury (27.2)
Beginner Novice Rider: Elizabeth Leonhardt and Cut to the Chase (27.1)
Beginner Novice Rider U19: Joshlyn Hernandez and Kynymont Indelibly Irish (27.4)
Open Beginner Novice 1: Alison O’Dwyer and Knockemdown (22.1)
Open Beginner Novice 2: Mary Clare Owdziej and Latin Jet (27.4)
Open Starter 1: Abby Blackburn and OathKeeper (27.1)
Open Starter 2: Alexis Forster and LNJ Sterling (25.3)
Starter Junior: Olivia Caschera and Puttin’ On The Ritz (30.0)
Open Tadpole: Marty Riney and Silver Lining (26.8)

Monday News & Notes

By on Apr 13, 2026 12:01 am -

One Big Thing: Australia Tops Strzegom Spring Open CCI4*-S Standings

Olivia Barton and APH Sodoko. Photo by Leszek Wójcik / Strzegom Spring Open.

The leaderboard shuffled after each phase of competition in the Strzegom Spring Open CCI4*-S in Poland this weekend and following Sunday’s cross country action, it’s Australia’s Olivia Barton who took home the win with Carlene Barton’s APH Sodoku, a 10-year-old Australian-bred Warmblood gelding. Olivia and APH Sodoku are a big of a three-ring talent, having competed at the FEI levels of both show jumping and dressage in addition to their eventing career.

APH Sodoku is a product of Olivia’s mother’s boutique breeding program; in fact, Olivia has competed several other homebreds at the top levels and was until recently based with Prue and Oliver Barrett in Australia. She’s now based in Europe with Stateside Farm in Belgium and this latest result marks her second win at the level at Strzegom (she previously won here with her Adelaide podium finisher Hollyander HG in 2025).

Full results from Strzegom can be found here.

Major International Results

Twin Rivers Spring International (CA, USA): [Website] [Scores] 

Strzegom Horse Trials (POL): [Website] [Scores]

US Weekend Results

Longleaf Pine HT (NC): [Website] [Scores]

Unionville HT (PA): [Website] [Scores]

Poplar Place April HT (GA): [Website] [Scores]

F.E.N.C.E. HT (NC): [Website] [Scores]

Pine Hill Spring HT (TX): [Website] [Scores]

Spring Bay HT (KY): [Website] [Scores]

Other Links & Reading

Training Tip of the Day

How FEI judge and 5* rider Valerie Pride incorporates racing style into her equipment approach:

Go Eventing

Some beautiful scenes from this weekend’s FEI at Twin Rivers in Paso Robles, CA!

Sunday Links

By on Apr 12, 2026 12:01 am -

A very sweet update from 5* rider Zoe Crawford, whose partner for Kentucky in 2021 and 2022, K.E.C. Zara, has made a return to competition with young rider Abby Wilberding in the Beginner Novice at FENCE in North Carolina.

“Three years ago to the day I shared that Zara had picked up an injury and would retire from eventing,” Zoe wrote on social media. “She rehabbed from her injury incredibly and came back to full work. She looked incredible and felt great but with new horses to produce she stayed in light work when there was time. There was also a hospital stay and rehabbing again from running through a fence earning a lot of stitches, because nothing has ever been easy with her. But today, at 20 years old, Zara made her Beginner Novice debut with Abby Wilberding in the irons. In typical Zara fashion she made a scene at the start box acting like she was ready to go 5* again. Abby handled her beautifully and Zara mostly kept it together 😂 at least once out the box!”

We love seeing horses getting a chance to enjoy the sport at an easier level and teaching a few lessons along the way. Go Zara!

Major International Events This Weekend

Twin Rivers Spring International (CA, USA): [Website] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map]

Strzegom Horse Trials (POL): [Website] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

US Events This Weekend

Longleaf Pine HT (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map]

Unionville HT (PA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Poplar Place April HT (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

F.E.N.C.E. HT (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times]

Pine Hill Spring HT (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map]

Spring Bay HT (KY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map]

Links & Reading

Training Tip of the Day

Losing your balance over jumps? Try this:

Go Eventing

A very cute learning moment (and a helping hand) from this pair:

Libussa Lübbeke Takes Over Strzegrom Spring Open CCI4*-S Lead Ahead of Cross Country

By on Apr 11, 2026 5:15 pm -

Saturday at Strzegom Spring Open once again delivered top-level sport and thrilling competition. Riders faced both a demanding show jumping test and the cross-country course, which traditionally remains one of the most exciting elements of the event. There was no shortage of эмоtions – both in international classes and national competitions.

CCI4*-S – Libussa Lübbeke Takes Lead with Caramia FRH

Libussa Lübbeke and Caramia 34. Photo by Leszek Wójcik / Strzegom Spring Tour.

After the show jumping phase in the CCI4*-S, Germany’s Libussa Lübbeke riding the very experienced Caramia FRH holds the lead with a score of 30.0 penalties.

New Zealand’s Samantha Lissington on Delarado, a two-time CCI4*-L podium finisher, is in second place with 32.5 penalties.

Germany’s Ben Leuwer on Zuccini MN sits third with 32.6 penalties with one pole lowered on Marcin Konarski’s (pulling double duty this weekend as both cross country and show jumping designer) influential course.

CCI3*-S – tight race for the podium

Merel Blom-Hulsman and Checkpoint 46. Photo by Leszek Wójcik / Strzegom Spring Tour.

In the CCI3*-S, the Netherlands’ Merel Blom-Hulsman on Checkpoint 46 leads after show jumping with 27.4 penalties. Germany’s Christoph Wahler on Gainsbourg de Bedon is second with 29.9 penalties, followed by India’s Ashish Limaye (2025 Asian Games individual gold medalist) on former Shane Rose ride Easy Turn in third place with 31.3 penalties.

CCI1*-Intro – final results

Mateus Kiempa and Olympic Bay. Photo by Leszek Wójcik / Strzegom Spring Tour.

Saturday also brought the final results in the CCI1*-Intro. Poland’s Mateusz Kiempa riding Olympic Boy claimed victory with 28.5 penalties. Spain’s Esteban Benitez Valle on Curysler CSH finished second with 29.2 penalties, while the Czech Republic’s Miloslav Prihoda Jr on Numero-K took third place with 33.8 penalties.

National competitions – strong performances

The national classes also provided plenty of sporting highlights. Finland’s Nea Rissanen on Toblerone Z won the CNC 80 class, while Poland’s Iga Ślusarczyk on Juliette was the best in CNC 80-18.

Poland’s Daria Kobiernik and Rigoletto WM won CNC 90, while Germany’s Henriette Hübner on Laikari triumphed in CNC 90-18.

Austria’s Julia Gillmaier on Avalon G delivered the best result in CNC 100, while Finland’s Inkeri Laiho on Conradh won CNC 100-18.

The second day of competition showed that the battle for the top positions in the highest classes remains wide open, with a very high level of sport throughout the event. Riders now face the निर्ण decisive cross-country on Sunday – where the final winners of Strzegom Spring Open 2026 will be decided, along with the first leaders of the DCU Strzegom Tour and Strzegom Rising Stars Tour.

Strzegom Spring Open (POL): [Website] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

From the Ground Up: “We Teach Who We Are”

By on Apr 11, 2026 9:30 am -

We’re about a month into the new year, and while I’m not one for resolutions specifically, I love to go into the new year intentionally. I set time aside every winter to think about the space I’m in, my day to day, and an outlook into the future… also helpful for motivating during long days in freezing temperatures!

This year, I’ve found myself craving more growth and learning. I’ve found an outlet through a Master of Arts program in Humane Education through Antioch University.
It’s only a few weeks into the semester, but I’ve already enjoyed diving in, getting to know my cohort, and finding a balance between working full time and studying in between lessons and rides. My hope for this program is to continue building a network and approach that emphasizes kindness and consideration in all that we do.

And with that, I felt right at home as our advisor quoted Parker Palmer in The Courage to Teach: Exploring the Inner Landscape of a Teacher’s Life. Palmer stated, “We teach who we are”. Palmer’s statement has since played over and over in my mind as I engage with the horses and riders in my program.

I spend most of my time learning from horses, but also striving to engage in a conversation with them to clarify our communication, and find a language that works well for both horse and handler. In our training, I strive for patience, softness, and connection. But if I’m not patient, soft, and connected within myself, how am I to expect such an approach from my horses?

I have a young thoroughbred mare, who is wonderfully curious, naturally soft, and kind to her core. She’s been developing nicely, and I’ve sought out help as she continues to grow to ensure my training is the best it can be for her. In one session, a slight brace was noted in her neck, causing some inconsistencies in the contact. The trainer suggested I should respond with the same – if I increase the pressure until she softens, the brace will leave. While it did address the brace in her neck when I attempted that approach, I realized I created an undesirable outcome: by becoming braced myself, she became guarded and braced in her mind.

Horses mirror us, and are amazing teachers for self awareness, and in being intentional. I quickly realized that changing my mindset to meet a brace with increasing pressure created a mindset in my horse that formed a struggle between the two of us. I quickly returned to a commitment to the approach that encouraged my mind and body to carry the patience, softness, and connection that I so want in my interactions with my horses. I found new groundwork techniques to find ways to stretch and move her body in a way that encouraged softness under saddle – I introduced some of the work from Equine Tensegrity Balancing Therapy, clarified some lateral movements in hand and slowly under saddle, and focused on my own body position to better support her biomechanics.

By maintaining my commitment to a mindset and living the example I want to set, and by holding myself accountable to being the patient, soft, and connected horsewoman I want to be, I was able to guide my horse into the same feeling, and seek out harmonious moments and flow in our movement.

Who and how we are influences how we feel, the energy we give and attract, and our interactions with our equine partners. As I continue in my training, in this program, and in my interactions with people around me, I’m going to strive to be intentional in how I show up, the values I hold, and the energy I carry to teach who I am.

To read more from this series, click here.

Saturday Links

By on Apr 11, 2026 12:01 am -

If you’re in the Maryland area, you won’t want to miss an awesome opportunity to take in cross country action during the upcoming Waredaca H.T. on May 2! From 1-4 p.m. on May 2, the Waredaca Eventing Education Foundation will be hosting a cross country viewing party featuring top area riders, all in support of the Foundation’s initiatives to future education and opportunity in the sport. Tickets cost just $31 and can be booked in advance here.

Major International Events This Weekend

Twin Rivers Spring International (CA, USA): [Website] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map]

Strzegom Horse Trials (POL): [Website] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

US Events This Weekend

Longleaf Pine HT (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map]

Unionville HT (PA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Poplar Place April HT (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

F.E.N.C.E. HT (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times]

Pine Hill Spring HT (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map]

Spring Bay HT (KY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map]

Links & Reading

Training Tip of the Day

Some thoughts on separation anxiety and herd bound tendencies in horses, and why it doesn’t automatically qualify as “disobedience”:

Go Eventinghere or on your favorite podcast platform.

Ben Leuwer and Zuccini MN Lead Strzegom Spring Open CCI4*-S

By on Apr 10, 2026 5:21 pm -

The new eventing season in Strzegom has officially begun. The first day of the Strzegom Spring Open was dedicated to dressage tests, which traditionally open the competition in international classes.

Riders from multiple countries took to the start, competing in four international classes (from CCI4*-S down to CCI1*-Intro) as well as six national competitions.

CCI4*-S: German trio in the lead

Ben Leuwer (GER) and Zuccini MN. Photo by Leszek Wójcik / Strzegom Spring Tour.

In the most demanding class of the day, CCI4*-S, Germany’s Ben Leuwer riding Zuccini MN took the lead after dressage with a score of 28.6 penalties. Zuccini MN, 9 years old this year, is contesting his second 4*-S, and on Friday shaved two points off his previous score at the same venue last fall.

Konstantin Harting and Caspara 6. Photo by Leszek Wójcik / Strzegom Spring Tour.

His compatriot Konstantin Harting on Caspara is currently in second place with 29.8, while Libussa Lübbeke and her European Championships/Kentucky top 10 finisher Caramia FRH sit third on 30.0.

Libussa Lübbeke and Caramia FRH. Photo by Leszek Wójcik / Strzegom Spring Tour.

Kiwi rider Samantha Lissington is the first to break up the German party, taking fourth place after dressage with 2025 Luhmühlen runner-up Ricker Ridge Sooty GNZ (31.7). The Netherlands’ Merel Blom-Hulsman rounds out the top five with 10-year-old Diego TH (32.0).

CCI3*-S: Blom-Hulsman on top

In the CCI3*-S class, Merel Blom-Hulsman riding Checkpoint 46 claimed the lead with 27.4 penalties.

Second place goes to Germany’s Christoph Wahler and Gainsbourg De Bedon with 29.9, while India’s Ashish Limaye and Eeasy Turn are third on 31.3.
The best-placed Polish combination, Paweł Warszawski and Caglistro PKZ, currently sit in a solid 9th position with 32.3 penalties.

Season opener sets the tone

Marcin Konarski, event organiser and course designer, highlighted the importance of the April competition in riders’ seasonal plans: “The start of the season in Strzegom brings great excitement. We are already seeing very good form at the dressage stage, and we are confident that the coming days will deliver top-level sporting action.”

The competition continues over the next days with cross-country and show jumping phases, which will determine the final standings. The live stream can be found on ClipMyHorse.TV here.

Strzegom Spring Open (POL): [Website] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]

Key Updates to Defender Kentucky CCI5* Entry List

By on Apr 10, 2026 1:36 pm -

2023 Maryland 5 Star winners Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue tackle the main water complex on cross country. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Since the publication of entries and subsequent release of the draw order for this year’s Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*, we have just a few updates as some pairs have firmed up their plans or ill-timed happenings delayed their plans.

Over the last couple of weeks, the 5* entry list has thinned by four: Mia Farley withdrew Phelps shortly after entries came out, citing a minor injury that will keep him on the sidelines for now. Later, Ireland’s Joseph Murphy pulled Belline Fighting Spirit; the pair is still listed on the MARS Badminton entry list and we should be seeing them competing in England. We also saw Harry Meade pull Cavalier Crystal (three-time 5* podium finisher, including a third place at Burghley last fall), most likely in favor of MARS Badminton. He’s got three horses still on the Kentucky list in Et Hop du Matz, Graffenacht and Superstition; all are still cross-entered at Badminton but we will see Harry in Kentucky with some if not all three of these horses — all with a strong shot at the podium.

The most recent withdrawal also comes from Ireland, as 2023 MARS Maryland 5 Star winners Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue will sadly not be making the trek over for their first crack at Kentucky.

“…very unfortunately Salty has suffered a minor setback after his brilliant run in the Grantham Cup [at Thorseby Park] over the weekend, which very sadly means that Kentucky and Badminton are a no go for this year,” Austin’s team posted on social media today. “He’s a horse like none other to me and he owes me absolutely nothing. We always have his best interests at the forefront of our minds and we will give him all the time that he needs to get right. We hope very much and keep our fingers crossed that he will be good to go again in time for the summer season and in the meantime we will give him everything he possibly needs to aid his recovery. It goes without saying that we are all absolutely gutted, he is feeling at his best ever and we were so excited to have the opportunity to have another crack at one of the biggest events in the world. We know his fans will miss watching him just as much as I’ll miss galloping the 5* turf that he thrives on!”

With FEI Eventing World Championships looming in August, we’ll keep our fingers crossed for a strong recovery and a run for the Irish team heading to Aachen this summer.

You can view the current entry lists for both Kentucky divisions, as well as the CSI5* show jumping competition put on by Major League Show Jumping, which will feature all-time greats such as Olympic champion Christian Kukuk (GER), US Equestrian Open champion Kent Farrington, Laura Kraut, McLain Ward, Karl Cook and many, many more, here.

EN’s coverage of Defender Kentucky is supported by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for all the science-backed nutritional support your horse needs. Learn more about KPP here.

Defender Kentucky: [Website] [Entries] [Tickets]

Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation Hosting Spring Festival Fundraiser This Sunday

By on Apr 10, 2026 1:30 pm -

Photo courtesy of FMFEF.

Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation (FMFEF) will host a Spring Festival and Derby Cross event on Sunday, April 12, 2026 at Full Moon Farm in Finksburg, Maryland to raise funds for the 2026 goal of introducing a Modified division at future Full Moon Farm recognized horse trials becoming a standing fundraiser for the foundation.

All community members are welcome to enjoy a day that will consist of Derby Cross competition, one-mile fun run, vendors, pony rides, food from Santoni’s Marketplace, and more.

Photo courtesy of FMFEF.

Additionally, FMFEF is hosting an online silent auction as part of the fundraiser leading up to the festival. Items are available for both horse and non-horse people including lessons with five star professionals, schooling passes, horse trial entries, gift cards to local restaurants and spas, art pieces, food & wine options and more items being added.

Riders interested in participating in the Derby Cross can sign up in advance and will be given a ride time a prior to the event. There is something for everyone in the derby with obstacles ranging from poles to three foot. The cost is $100 per round and $25 per additional round.
Anyone interested in doing the one mile fun run can also sign up in advance. Dogs are welcome to run or walk the course. The cost to enter the fun run is $25.

Photo courtesy of FMFEF.

“This festival is a chance for everyone—whether you’re in the saddle or simply love the sport— to come together, have fun, and be part of something bigger,” said FMFEF Vice Chair, Katrina Hyde. “By joining us, you’re helping create a more inclusive equestrian community and supporting a modified course that will serve as a lasting symbol of access and opportunity.”

Following the success of the inaugural Spring Festival in 2025, FMFEF looks forward to continuing to host community events that support initiatives that promote inclusion in the sport.

To learn more about the Full Moon Farm Eventing Foundation, click here.