Classic Eventing Nation

Boyd Martin and Miss Lulu Herself Make it Two for Two at Devon Arena Eventing

Sunday night at the Devon Horse Show in PA concluded with yet another distinct discipline on display in the Dixon Oval. Spectators filled the stands for the annual Devon Arena Eventing, held under the lights to cap off the first full week of the show.

Boyd Martin and Miss Lulu Herself. Photo by Mane Source Media for Devon Horse Show.

One of only a few events of its kind in the world, Devon’s Arena Eventing is unlike any other jumping event at the show. The course combines cross-country obstacles with traditional show jumps and spans both the Wheeler Ring and the Dixon Oval.

In the end, it was defending champion Boyd Martin on Miss Lulu Herself who topped the class, taking home the winner’s share of the $50,000 prize fund.

“I love coming here, just because a lot of our personal friends would never, ever come watch an event, you know, and we have a huge circle of friends in our community that are outside horses,” Boyd told The Chronicle of the Horse. “I kind of like being a bit anonymous amongst them. There are lots of kids, parents and their friends, and this is sort of one event that they can come see what we do, so it’s kind of nice. It’s a great event. There are not many events where we sort of ride at night in front of a crowd. So it’s a real privilege and honor to be here at Devon. It’s got so much history and such an aura about it.”

Boyd also piloted Ocala Horse Properties’ Shanroe Cooley, a former ride of Liz Halliday’s, to third place in the division. Shannon Lilley and Ideal HX also turned in a speedy clear round to secure second place on the podium. Caroline Pamukcu and Redfield Dexter picked up fourth, and Ema Klugman rounds out the top five with Chiraz, and also finished in the top 10 with RF Redfern.

Boyd Martin and Miss Lulu Herself. Photo by Mane Source Media for Devon Horse Show.

Full results can be found here. You can also hear more from Boyd and see more photos from the night in The Chronicle of the Horse‘s full report here.

Weekend Winners: VHC, Woodside, Coconino, Willow Draw, & Flora Lea

Another wonderful weekend of Eventing in the books!

Congrats to all of our Weekend Winners on successful outings! As always, we’re taking a moment out of our Monday to celebrate the weekend gone by, and give a shout out to so many great rides… along with a special shout out to the winner of our Unofficial Low Score Award, Annie Desmond and Little Elf, who scored a 20.0 in the Senior Beginner Novice Rider B division at Woodside.

VHC Eventing (VA): [Website][Scoring]

CCI 3*S: Ashley Kehoe and Daktaris (47.4)
CCI 2*L: Emily Hamel and Kingston (31.5)
CCI 2*S: Lucienne Bellissimo and Tremanton (24.9)
CCI 1*L: James Power and Brambleridge Ponder the Truth (Patrick) (37.0)
Advanced CT: William Coleman and Very Dignified (28.0)
Advanced/Intermediate: Chris Talley and FE Marco Polo (31.5)
Open Intermediate: Ariel Grald and Libris Charlotte (35.2)
Open Preliminary A: Devin Robel and Gillou (25.8)
Open Preliminary B: Daniel Clasing and Sportsfield All Out (29.7)
Preliminary Rider: Brooke Kahl and Nata Montada SCF (33.3)
Modified Rider: Lee Maher and HTF Charming Cooley (27.8)
Open Modified: Caitlin Romeo and Fernhill B Good (23.0)
Junior Training Rider: Iselin Byars and CSF Dassett Decoy (33.4)
Open Training: Susan Plumb and Bugsy Malone (23.3)
Senior Training Rider: Jessica Sappenfield and Westwood (29.2)
Training Horse: Tori Nuckols and Nonpareil SPF (31.7)
Junior Novice Rider: Olivia Hickman and Rocktop Dreamer (28.6)
Novice Horse: Ariel Grald and MGH Catch Me (27.5)
Open Novice: Kaitlin Clasing and Pamorkus BSW (31.0)
Senior Novice Rider: Catherine Ramsey and Cakewalk (30.3)
Beginner Novice Horse: Domenica Kujawa and Cesar (26.2)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Olivia Swank and Truly A Moon Shot (36.8)
Open Beginner Novice: Lauren Sumner and Excel Star Babadook (26.2)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider A: Lara Morris and Swan’s Shine Brightly (30.3)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider B: Rachael Grice and Meadow Dancer (27.1)
Starter A: Hayley Palmer and Perplexing (31.7)
Starter B: Allison Smith and Threat Level Midnight (26.7)

Woodside Spring H.T. (VA): [Website][Scoring]

Advanced: Tamra Smith and Kynan (47.3)
Open Intermediate: Tamra Smith and Jutopia (31.0)
Open Preliminary: James Alliston and Made by Leontine EB (25.8)
Preliminary Rider: Olivia Baca and Casskinero (29.0)
Modified Horse Match: Stephanie Goodman and Diranca (30.4)
Modified Rider Match: Saulo Tristao and Cartaleyo JF (32.7)
Open Modified: Tommy Greengard and Cooley Sligo (28.0)
Junior Training Rider: Zoe Barker and Kontessa M (30.3)
Senior Training Rider: Nicci Guzzetta and Little Richard (26.6)
Training Amateur: Clara Marks and Crystal Blue Persuasion (26.1)
Open Training: Tommy Greengard and EWSZ Java (30.3)
Junior Novice Rider: Michaela Smith and Cashmaker (27.2)
Senior Novice Rider: Lisa Peecook and SZ Raudo (23.6)
Senior Novice Amateur: Dana Chase and CARADETTE SZ (28.1)
Open Novice: Tommy Greengard and SD FORT I VALENT (23.9)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider A: Sophia Kuzma and CF Quintano (29.7)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider B: Emma de Vos Benavente and Cat Ballou (31.8)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider A: Gretchen Pope and Optimistic Sol (32.0)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider B: Annie Desmond and Little Elf (20.0)
Open Beginner Novice A: Tommy Greengard and Sailing Time (33.3)
Open Beginner Novice B: Sigourney Jellins and Lausbub Z (28.2)
Junior Starter Rider: Aliana Reiss and Cre Ard Lady (29.3)
Senior Starter Rider: Mohamed Mostafa and Rodrigue Du Granit (28.7)
Open Starter: Ashley Cox and Leilani (28.0)

Spring Coconino H.T. (AZ): [Website][Scoring]


Preliminary-Open: Lindsey Smith and Lucky Sun (32.6)
Modified-Open: Anastasia Keyser and Bellatrix (59.7)
Training-Open: Jennifer Buchanan and Rumer MWF (42.1)
Novice-Open: Angela Carmitchel and Big Fame (25.6)
Beginner Novice-Open A: Jessicca Butorac and Ready Freddy (22.9)
Beginner Novice-Open B: David Timchak and Ole Boy (36.2)
Starter-Open A: Erin Phipps and Finn MacCool (33.7)
Starter-Open B: Julia San Roman and Pragmatic (27.1)
1-Day: Susan Charlton and Prince Buttercup (31.0)

Willow Draw Charity H.T. (TX): [Website][Scoring]

Open Training: Albany Castor and Aurelius (28.1)
Training Rider: Julia Pinell and Street Fighter (29.4)
Novice Rider Jr: Sarah Jackson and WHF Wangari (26.1)
Novice Rider Sr: Scottiann Evans and Chance Encounter (28.7)
Open Novice: Karen Kruse and Viktor CSF (25.1)
BNovice Rider: Julia Engle and Fernhill Philm Star (26.5)
Open BNovice: Katie Carney and Talk of Texas (32.4)
Open Starter Jr: Grace Fahrenbruch and SF Sassafras (34.7)
Open Starter Sr: Kimberly Stafford and Charmed Night HU (23.0)

Flora Lea Spring H.T. (NJ): [Website][Scoring]

Open Preliminary: Matthew Lewis and Quaden AF (38.3)
Open Training: Holly Payne Caravella and Princess Candy (27.7)
Training Rider: Peyton Frankovich and Ben-jamin’ Traveler (36.2)
Novice Rider: Valentine Jie and Hillowan Bob (35.7)
Open Novice: Lacey Ogden and Cooley Ground Control (23.6)
Beginner Novice Rider: Laura Poveromo and Belmont (32.7)
Open Beginner Novice: Pam Wiedemann and DF Andrew (28.8)
Young Event Horse 4 Year Old: Ella Marinucci and Authentic Lies (80.000)
Young Event Horse 5 Year Old: Hayley Frielick and Dunedin LB Muze (79.150)

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier Claims Baborówko CCI4*-L Victory with Kiarado d’Arville

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Kiarado d’Arville. Photo courtesy of Equestrian Festival Baborókow.

The Equestrian Festival Baborówko 2025 concluded Sunday with a spectacular finale, crowning champions in the event’s top-level classes and celebrating outstanding performances from riders across the world. With ideal weather and enthusiastic crowds, the final day delivered intense emotions, technical mastery, and sporting drama befitting one of Europe’s most respected equestrian events.

In the CCI4*-L, the most prestigious and demanding class of the Festival – the KUHN Maszyny Rolnicze Trophy under the patronage of the Wielkopolska Region – Belgium’s Lara De Liedekerke-Meier secured a commanding victory aboard Kiarado D’Arville, finishing on 44.5 penalty points. Switzerland’s Felix Vogg and Frieda claimed second place with 48.4 points, while the Netherlands’ Florinoor Hoogland took third with Hontoni on 62.8 points.

“From the first time I came here I really really liked it. Huge facilities, so many sand arenas. The stables are really good and you know you have a lot of place (…). I love coming here and it is every year in my calendar” – said Lara De Liedekerke-Meier, the winner of CCI4*-L, about the whole Equestrian Festival Baborówko.

Julia Krajewski and Uelzener’s Nickel. Photo courtesy of Equestrian Festival Baborókow.

The CCI4*-S, for the Prize of Patron of the Show Roman Roszkiewicz, was dominated by Julia Krajewski of Germany, who led from dressage to the final round and clinched the win with Uelzener’s Nickel, maintaining her score of 26.8 penalty points. Calvin Böckmann followed in second with Altair De La Cense (37.8 pts), and Lara de Liedekerke-Meier once again stepped onto the podium, this time in third with Ducati D’Arville (39.4 pts).

Special trophies were also awarded on this final day. Julia Krajewski received the Apart Trophy for Best Female Rider and the Trophy for Best Dressage Performance, confirming her outstanding overall form. The Trophy for Best Cross Country Performance was awarded jointly to Calvin Böckmann and Lara De Liedekerke-Meier. The Trophy for Best Polish Rider was awarded to Paweł Warszawski, highlighting national excellence in an elite international field.

“I know that Nickel is the most genuine horse. Whatever you point him at, he jumps” – said Julia Krajewski, the winner of CCI4*-S, about her special horse.

Photo courtesy of Equestrian Festival Baborókow.

In the CCI3*-S for the Energys Polska Trophy, Antonia Baumgart of Germany maintained her lead to take victory aboard Ris De Talm with 26.3 points. She was followed by Pia Leuwer with Hanami 4 (33.5 pts) and Lea Siegl riding Dark Gambler (34 pts).

“I’m absolutely pleased with my horse. He was absolutely fantastic during the whole weekend. From start to finish, just perfect” – said Antonia Baumgart, the winners of CCI3*-S, about her horse, which was bought a few years before at the auction in Baborówko.

The CCI2*-S, sponsored by Grupa DUON, was won by Brandon Schäfer-Gehrau and Cadorico with an impressive finish on 23.1 points. Nicolai Aldinger and Giganta placed second (26.4 pts), while Antonia Baumgart, again on the podium, came third with Blaya D’Ha Z (26.7 pts).

In the national CNC100 class, Nicolai Aldinger topped the leaderboard with Quality De La Vie (29.7 pts), followed by Sanna Siltakorpi on Buba D’Mues (30.9 pts), and Aldinger again in third with Kilcandra Bonnie Princess (31.6 pts).

The CNC-18 category saw Julia Rohde take first place with Kingston (26.9 pts), while Rita Vaarala on Sunnyside 3 and Pola Stachura riding Pepper N shared second and third place respectively, both finishing on 30.6 points.

The 2025 edition of Equestrian Festival Baborówko once again proved to be a celebration of international equestrian sport, uniting top talent, passionate supporters, and a commitment to excellence. With multiple nations represented on the podium and many young horses and riders showcasing promise for the future, Baborówko continues to strengthen its position as a key event on the global eventing calendar.

Equestrian Festival Baborówko (Poland): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]

Monday News & Notes from Futuretrack

A legacy of hope and courage lives on through the Hannah Francis Award, which is now accepting applications for 2025.

Created in memory of Hannah Francis—an incredibly brave young eventer whose battle with osteosarcoma inspired the world—this annual award honors an Inspirational Young Eventer who embodies the spirit Hannah so fiercely demonstrated: dreaming bigger than fear, riding through adversity, and giving back to the community.

Hannah’s story, shared through her beloved soft toy, Willberry the Wonder Pony, captivated tens of thousands. Her charity, Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony, continues to fund critical research into bone cancer and grant equine wishes to others facing serious illness. The award’s bronze trophy, a beautiful sculpture of Hannah and her horse Mavis created by artist Amy Goodman, symbolizes not just the trials Hannah faced, but the strength, resilience, and passion she gave to this sport.

To learn more or apply, visit here. Let Hannah’s legacy remind us: it’s not just about the accomplishments — it’s about the ride.

U.S. Weekend Results

VHC Eventing (VA): [Website] [Scores]

Woodside Spring H.T. (VA): [Website] [Scores]

Spring Coconino H.T. (AZ): [Website] [Scores]

Willow Draw Charity H.T. (TX): [Website] [Scores]

Flora Lea Spring H.T. (NJ): [Website] [Scores]

Major International Events

Bicton International (UK): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]

Equestrian Festival Baborówko (Poland): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]

News & Reading

Fear is an emotion we’ve ALL experienced, and oftentimes it rears its head at the most inopportune times. Fear also has many layers to it, which means understanding it and its hold on us is key. In his latest Pressure Proof Column, Coach Daniel Stewart offers up some words of wisdom on navigating fear. Read it here.

Many congratulations to Canadian Olympian Jessie Phoenix, who has been selected to receive a $20,000 travel grant to help her compete at CHIO Aachen in July with Freedom GS. Freedom GS is a special horse for Jessie, having been her partner for the Paris Olympics, a win in the TerraNova 4*-S this spring, and a podium finish in the Lexington 4*-S in April, setting up for what could be a great weekend in Germany. Read more here.

Does your off-track Thoroughbred seem to lose all her zen as soon as you leave your home property? Really, this advice can apply to any horse, but if you struggle with this, then Aubrey Graham’s latest Thoroughbred Logic column on Horse Nation should be your next read. See what Aubrey recommends here.

🐴 Sponsor Shout-Out: Fly Season Mythbusters with EcoVet

We’re back with another Fly Season Mythbuster from EcoVet, the fly spray that’s shaking up everything you thought you knew about pest control.

Myth: “All Fly Sprays Work the Same”
If you’ve tried one, you’ve tried them all… right? Not so fast. Most fly sprays rely on the same old chemical formulas—but EcoVet takes a completely different approach.

Instead of trying to kill bugs with harsh ingredients, EcoVet uses a blend of food-grade fatty acids that repels flies by confusing their natural radar. It creates a “no-fly zone” around your horse—no gimmicks, no overkill, just smarter science.

🐎 Want a spray that actually works and is gentler for your horse? This is it.

📬 Stay tuned for more myths busted this fly season. To learn more about EcoVet’s fly solutions, click here.

Video Break

Take a ride around Waredaca’s Training cross country course!

Blue Ribbons in the Blue Ridge Mountains: Hamel and Kingston Win CCI2*-L at VHC Eventing, Presented by Capital Square

Emily Hamel and Kingston. Photos by: Veronica Green-Gott.

The remaining two FEI divisions at VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square, wrapped up with inaugural International wins for the leaders of both long-format divisions, the CCI2*-L and the CCI1*-L. Emily Hamel and her new partner, Kingston, won the CCI2*-L division on a score of 31.5. In the CCI1*-L, James Power took home the blue ribbon aboard Brambleridge Ponder the Truth with a score of 37.

Hamel may be a seasoned five-star event rider with the iconic gray gelding, 18-year-old Corvette, but this weekend ended in a crowning achievement for any rider– her first FEI win. While she may not have come home with a blue ribbon prior to this weekend, Hamel has come close many times throughout her career, with two podium finishes and eleven top ten finishes thus far.

“I was really proud of him,” Hamel said of Kingston, owned by Black Flag Option. “This is his first FEI and I’ve only had him since November, so it’s a new partnership. He’s relatively new to eventing and he just tried so hard. Coming into the weekend, I just wanted to have a good run, so winning was icing on the cake.”

The 2015 Dutch Warmblood gelding seems poised to continue in the hoofprints of Hamel’s previous five-star horses. Despite never having seen terrain like that at the Virginia Horse Center, which is frequently referred to as a “mini Bromont,” Kingston rose to the challenge with ease.

“He was great,” Hamel said. “I didn’t know what to expect, because he’s never seen that many hills, but he just loved it. He had such a good time running up and down, and he’s so quick and clever. It was a really fun ride.”

Emily Hamel and Kingston. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott.

Heading into the final phase, Hamel had been trying not to get her hopes too high. Second place winner Tim Bourke and Sing to Me Cooley, owned by Hedgerow Farm, were less than a half of a point behind Hamel. If Hamel wanted to hold onto her lead, her only option was a double clear round. Luckily, Kingston’s show jumping background gave her the minute edge she needed. The pair crossed the finish flags six seconds ahead of the optimum time.

Kate Servais and her own Life Story moved up from fourth place to take home third with a score of 40.2.

It was a big weekend for Hamel. Celebrating her birthday the Wednesday before the event, her first FEI win was possibly the best present she could have asked for. “It feels really cool [to win],” Hamel said. “I’ve done a million FEIs at this point, but I haven’t won an FEI. So it’s extra special.”

Hamel returned to the Virginia Horse Center this weekend after a long period away. “I love it here,” she said. “I haven’t been here in years. I think the last time I was here was when I was working for Phillip [Dutton], so that was a while ago. It’s such a beautiful facility. They’ve done a lot of great upgrades, like the arenas are great to ride in, and the cross country– I think they got some new fences– and it was just a really good experience, overall. Everybody here working and volunteering has been really helpful.”

In the CCI1*-L, James Power found himself heading into the show jumping phase poised to win after yesterday’s leader, Alyssa Phillips and her own Centerfold, did not pass the horse inspection on Sunday morning. With an 11-point lead heading into the ring, Power and Brambleridge Ponder the Truth, owned by the rider, used up some of their overall buffer after knocking a pole at fence nine to finish on a final score of 37. Annabelle Friend and the creatively named Tater’CZalad, owned by the rider, took home second place with a score of 44. Liana Anason and her own Biscuit Snatcher earned a score of 46, sliding into third place.

Like Hamel, it’s the pair’s inaugural FEI win, made even more special by “Patrick’s” comeback from a serious injury in the fall. “I’ve never won an FEI before, and he’s coming off a season ending injury from last year,” Power said. “Being able to come into this season and winning this FEI means so much to me. My mom always helps me out so much, with grooming and just being here supporting me. So I’m overall really happy with how it went.”

James Power and Brambleridge Ponder The Truth.

In the past, Power said he’s struggled to get Patrick to relax at events, but didn’t spare a second thought for the challenging terrain at the Virginia Horse Center. Patrick may be only 15.3 hands, but the Connemara/Thoroughbred is a cross country machine.

“My rides this weekend were pretty good,” Power said. “I got him really relaxed for dressage, he was really good for that. But the cross country is always really good– he’s a beast out there all the time. Show jumping is not my strongest phase. I would say he’s pretty solid at it, but I get really nervous in there. So, I got the one rail, but I’m not disappointed at all with how this weekend went.”

Power, who found time to support his fellow competitors by volunteering at the Horse Center over the weekend, also won the CCI1*-L Young Rider Award, sponsored by Hyperion Stud. Friend came in second place, with Anson taking third. The Award is given to the young rider with the lowest score in each division. Power has been involved in the Young Rider program, which aims to promote community and educational opportunities among up-and-coming riders, for some time. He competed at the Young Rider Championships at the Maryland International in 2024.

James Power, Annabelle Friend and Liana Anson earning the Young Rider Awards, sponsored by Hyperion Stud.

According to Power, the Young Rider program has helped him find a community. “My friend Mia, that’s how I met her,” Power said. “We didn’t know each other before, and we’ve become really good friends, hanging out outside of horses and stuff. Also Claire Allen, and a bunch of other people that I never knew before. I would say the number one thing that I’ve gotten from Young Riders is making a lot of friends and making connections with people.”

Kate Servais and Life Story.

Kate Servais, head groom for five-star event rider Sharon White, won the Hyperion Stud Young Rider Award in the CCI2*-L with Life Story. She purchased the 14-year-old Holsteiner/Thoroughbred from Olympian Caroline Pamukcu.

“I am so proud of him,” Servais said. “He tried so hard all weekend, and I just absolutely adore him so much. He’s so perfect. He tries so hard all the time, and he’s just the sweetest creature ever.”

Historically, Servais said that finding relaxation at competitions has been difficult for the pair, but this weekend they had a breakthrough in the show jumping phase. “We’ve really struggled,” she said. “I’ve struggled with the tenseness and relaxation in the ring. He’s so in tune with me. He’s such a telepathic horse. He can tell any emotion I’m feeling sooner than I can. So going in there and just jumping around so soft and supple and happy– I was so pleased with him.”

Over the last several months, Servais says that “Basil” has transformed her riding for the better. “He’s just changed my riding– learning to relax, learning to calm down, not take everything so seriously and be so intense all the time,” Servais said. “Having more of a sensitive horse has taught me to be quieter and more reactive in the right way, in a calm, quiet way.”

VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square, will return to the Virginia Horse Center on October 30th through November 2nd for another weekend of competition, this time in the crisp fall air against a backdrop of autumn leaves in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Entries open on September 16th and close on October 14th.

Without the support of sponsors like Capital Square, Hyperion Stud, Triple Crown Feed, Old Dominion Equine, and Blue Ridge Equine, events like VHC Eventing wouldn’t be possible.

VHC Eventing (VA): [Website] [Scores]

Laura Collett and London 52 Dominate in Spectacular Three-Peat at Bicton

Team GB takes the first Nations Cup leg. Photo by ESP Photographic.

On the final day of this year’s Bicton International Horse Trials (22-25 May) we saw a spectacular day of sport, but one rider stole the show.

Laura Collett was the rider of the moment at Bicton International Horse Trials in the TopSpec CCI4*-S leading the British team to victory in the first leg of the 2025 FEI Eventing Nations Cup™. The winning British team comprised Laura (riding London 52), pathfinder Gemma Stevens, who looks to have another Chilli Morning-sired star in Chilli King in 14th, Barnie Brotherton, who made an excellent British team debut in eighth place on DHI King Nelson, and Selina Milnes on Cooley Snapchat in fifth place.

Technical Director and Eventing Performance Manager Richard ‘Dickie’ Waygood commented, “There’s so many highlights to mention, with some lovely young horses that will have gone away from here with a really good experience. It has been great to get Barnie on to the team, giving him a wonderful opportunity and he has really shone from beginning to end, which is great for the future. All in all, it’s been a great day for the team and lots of exciting prospects.”

Laura Collett and London 52. Photo by ESP Photographic.

The US team, several of whose riders are spending the summer in Europe as members of the US Development Squad, finished second with Jenny Caras the highest placed rider in 10th on Sommersby.

Laura, a renowned specialist around Bicton’s spectacular cross country course, led the CCI4*-S from the start with a record dressage score for the Devon event, 18.5, on her dual Olympic gold medallist and 2022 Badminton winner, co-owned with Karen Bartlett and Keith Scott, London 52.

She was also third on Dacapo – echoing her first and third placings on the same horses in 2023. Her win on London 52 makes the pair the sole winners of the CCI4*-S since its inaugural run. Their beautiful cross country round, with just 2.4 time penalties, was the fastest of the day. “It was amazing,” Collett commented fresh from her round. “All my horses have been incredible but when I get on [London 52] I get quite emotional because he is just unbelievable. I’m just the luckiest girl in the world to have a horse like him. What he has done for my career has been beyond imaginable. He loves performing in front of a crowd and is at his happiest when people are clapping and cheering, so he’s a happy boy today.”

Samantha Lissington, representing New Zealand, was second on Lord Seekonig and the experienced British combination of Kitty King and Vendredi Biats, holders of European team gold and individual silver medals, were fourth.

Elizabeth Barratt and Big Boss Melo. Photo by ESP Photographic.

Elizabeth Barratt was crowned the Succeed British Young Rider Champion at the start of the day. It was a rollercoaster week for Barratt, but in the end her clear on the ever-reliable 14-year-old Big Boss Melo, owned by Barratt Eventing, snatched the win back for her. “’It means so much to me,” commented Elizabeth once she found out she had the win. “It’s so special, and not something that I ever thought would happen. There are so many amazing young riders at the moment and it’s amazing to be able to compete against them.’”

Symonds & Sampson CCI3*-L saw a shake up of the leaderboard over Krissy Spiller’s show jumping course, with Ros Canter’s one, two finally being intercepted by a stellar clear from Yasmin Ingham and Kinda Corvette.

Ros Canter Silversters Finesse. Photo by ESP Photographic.

The in-form Ros Canter, fresh from a brilliant Badminton victory a fortnight ago, added another trophy to her cabinet with a win on Deborah and Fergus Langstaff’s eight-year-old chestnut mare, Silvesters Finesse, and third on Armscote Explorer. “I’m over the moon. This year both horses have come out and started to really show that they’re top class,” said Ros, post-show jumping round. “I’m delighted for Silvester Finesse’s owner, who sadly isn’t at Bicton today, she has been very supportive and so I’m really pleased for this result with her.”

Kitty King and Dassett Flight. Photo by ESP Photographic.

Kitty King and Elizabeth Golby’s Dassett Flight Path led throughout to win the Equilume CCI2*-L. Tom McEwen followed in second on Brookfield Danny De Muze with Laura Collett and Cooley Iceage in third. “It’s been an excellent week, I always really enjoy coming to Bicton, it’s one of my favourite venues and being based in Wiltshire it’s really nice to support local events,” commented Kitty. “We’ve had a great time with Dassett Flight Path and he’s learnt a lot at this event. He’s just come out and performed at every phase; he’s not let me down or himself down and been a little trooper all week.”

There were universal plaudits for the team at the Bicton International Horse Trials, which catered for around 180 horses over the weekend, producing immaculate footing on Helen West’s cross country course which was beautifully presented and rode well throughout. “It’s been a real pleasure to watch so many horses, both experienced and novice, enjoying themselves,” said Helen. “This is what the sport is all about, and we’ve had really exciting competitions and been lucky enough to have seen both established stars and ones to watch for the future.”

There were special prizes given throughout the sections from the wonderful supporting companies Tackroom Distillery, Redpost Equestrian, Wyvern Equestrian, Darts Farm, Yeti, Equilume, Chatham, Halley Floral Designs, Nyetimber, Darts Farm, Gatehouse Trailer Bar, Taste of Sidmouth and The Kitchen at Combe.

Bicton International (UK): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]

Entry Preview + How to Watch Arena Eventing at the Devon Horse Show

Boyd Martin & Contestor. Winners of the 2019 Devon Arena Eventing. Photo courtesy of The Book LLC.

We’re getting ready for some Arena Eventing at the Devon Horse Show with an iconic class that visits this historic competition each year. A total of 16 entries are on the docket for this eventing’s competition, which will go over two rounds and begin at 7 p.m. ET. If you want to watch live, you can do so on USEF Network by ClipMyHorse.TV here.

The full entry list can be found here. Featuring on the entry list is multi-winner here, Boyd Martin, who’s entered with Miss Lulu Herself, who’s won here at Devon before, as well as Shanroe Cooley, a former ride of Liz Halliday’s. We’ll also see an appearance from U.S. Olympian Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake, Ema Klugman with both Chiraz and RF Redfern, Buck Davidson and Sorocaima, Shannon Lilley and Ideal HX, and many other top names.

Tune in live starting at 7 p.m. and see who will be crowned this year’s champion! Results and orders of go will be found here.

Sunday Links

Save the date! Boyd and Silva Martin’s Windurra Camp is returning this year from August 1-3! This camp, which started in 2024, is back by popular demand and will feature plenty of opportunities for both ridden and unmounted instruction. Registration information is coming soon, so be sure to follow Windurra on social for the latest so you can get those applications in.

U.S. Weekend Preview

VHC Eventing (VA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Woodside Spring H.T. (VA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Spring Coconino H.T. (AZ): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Willow Draw Charity H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Flora Lea Spring H.T. (NJ): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]

Major International Events

Bicton International (UK): [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream]

Equestrian Festival Baborówko (Poland): [Website] [Schedule] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream]

Links & Reading

Tracey Bienemann And Venezuelan River Earn ‘Ironic’ Fair Hill Win

How to Ride the Horse You Thought You Bought

Best of the Blogs: Rockin’ with Breed. Ride. Event.

What You Need To Know: 2025 Devon Horse Show

British Eventing Support Trust awarded grant from Kairos Philanthropy

Video Break

Take a peek at the glow up happening ahead of the 2025 Longines Luhmühlen CCI5* next month!

Kehoe & Daktaris Crowned CCI3* Winner at VHC Eventing, Presented by Capital Square

Ashley Kehoe and Daktaris by Veronica Green-Gott Ashley Kehoe and Daktaris by Veronica Green-Gott

Lexington, Virginia – May 24th, 2025 – The CCI3*-S and the CCI2*-S wrapped up on Saturday, May 24th, at VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square, but the CCI2*-L and the CCI1*-L still have one more phase to go. The weekend has been characterized by pioneering moments for horses and riders alike.

CCI3*-S winner, Ashley Kehoe, claimed her first win at the level riding Daktaris. The pair took the lead from FEI rookie Meagan Hopkins and Altaskin Jack, with a score of 47.4 after an influential cross country phase. The time proved hard to catch in the weekend’s top division; not a single pair achieved the optimum time, with every horse and rider combination having a minimum of 12 time penalties.

“He was so good,” Kehoe said. “I haven’t been here in probably seven or eight years, and I didn’t know how he was going to handle the big climb up the hill at the end and then the corner combination. But he never stopped going. I never had to kick him once.”

It’s a momentous weekend for Kehoe, marking her first win at the three-star level. Just two weeks ago, Kehoe had her first-ever FEI win with Daktaris at Tryon International. “He’s amazing,” Kehoe said. “He’s a winner. He’s incredibly talented and scopey. Actually, I had my first FEI win two weeks ago at Tryon International. I did the two star with him, just as a confidence boost before coming here, and he won that, and now he’s won this.”

Ashley Kehoe and Daktaris. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

It’s been a long road for Kehoe and Daktaris, who purchased the 9-year-old Holsteiner gelding after she had to sell her best horse during COVID. Sourced from a friend in Germany, Kehoe said she had been looking for something spicy– and he definitely fit the bill.

“He acts like a little stallion, to be honest,” Kehoe said. “He sort of shows up and struts around, you know, puffs out his chest. Kind of like Muhammad Ali– it’s his vibe.”

“We used to clear warm-up rings,” Kehoe continued, laughing. “He would stand up on his hind legs, but after ten minutes he would settle and say, ‘Okay, what can I do for you?’”

Kehoe chose to come to VHC Eventing with Daktaris to see how he would handle the rollercoaster-like terrain. “For this horse and myself, I just wanted to see how he was gonna do with the hills,” Kehoe said. “I didn’t want to go all the way up to Bromont, but this venue just has such great terrain that’s so different from Florida. And it just has wonderful show jumping- it has the whole shebang.”

Meanwhile in the CCI2*-L, Emily Hamel continues to navigate a challenging event aboard another first-timer– Black Flag Option’s Kingston, who is tackling his first FEI event with ease (so far). It’s safe to say that his first FEI cross country went smoothly, as the pair added nothing to their dressage score and finished exactly on the optimum time of seven minutes and four seconds.

“Oh, I’m so proud of him,” Hamel said. “He was just awesome. We’re still a pretty new partnership and I’ve only done three Prelims with him, so this is kind of a big ask. He definitely hasn’t seen this many hills before but he was really game and he had a great time. He just loves the job, so that’s fun.”

Emily Hamel and Kingston. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

With the weekend being Kingston’s first crack at the international level, Hamel’s goal for the cross country phase was to boost the Dutch Warmblood gelding’s confidence. As it turned out, she was able to both give the 10-year-old a good ride and stay in the lead.

“Going into the day, I was like ‘Oh I really hope I make time, but also first and foremost, I need to give him a good ride,’” Hamel said. “Again, he’s new at this level, so I decided I’ll go as fast as I can safely go and it worked out.”

Heading into tomorrow on an unproven FEI horse and holding onto the first place slot can be a nerve-wracking situation. Hamel is relying on Kingston’s show jumping background and her ability to keep a cool head to hold the lead.

“He came from a show jumping background in Europe,” Hamel said. “He did around 1.35m over there, so in theory it should go well. But again– it’s his first FEI, so we’re just gonna do our best and hopefully that’s good enough.”

“I am trying not to think of it like I’m going in there as the lead,” she continued. “I’m just gonna try to give him the best ride I can and hopefully everything works out.”

Hamel is coming to VHC Eventing fresh off a 12th place finish with Corvett, an 18-year-old seasoned five-star horse also owned by Black Flag Option, at the Kentucky Three-Day Event. Hamel says that Corvett and Kingston offer her very different rides.

“I’m never really in the lead,” Hamel said. “I’m used to [Corvett], where I have to claw my way up so it’s a new feeling. But it’ll be good practice and I think I have a good mental game. Hopefully that’ll be true tomorrow.”

Lucienne Bellissimo and Tremanton. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

In the CCI2*-S, Lucienne Bellissimo’s up-and-coming young horse, Duke’s Jory, finds himself in second place while tackling his first long format, losing the lead to Bellissimo and her seasoned five-star horse, Tremanton. Together, Bellissimo and Tremanton won the division with a score of 24.9, adding nothing to their dressage score after a double clear cross country round.

“So, I’ve had Tremanton for many years,” Bellissimo said. “She’s campaigned at the four star level, and I was hoping to have taken her to Kentucky, but sadly, she cut her leg quite badly in the paddock and has had a few months out. She’s fine, it was superficial, but I thought off the back of having a bit of a break, it would do her brain and body good to actually come and do a two star and just sort of start over and plan for bigger things for later in the year.”

Bellissimo’s plan worked. VHC Eventing marked Tremanton’s first two-star round since 2020 and the mare answered the course’s questions with ease. “Once I got on course with her, she hit the bottom of the big hill and just attacked it and found the time very, very easy,” Bellissimo said. “She really, really galloped and overtook her brother, Duke’s Jory. Dropping down to the two-star level did her no harm at all. It did her brain some good so she feels in a good space, and she was good on the flat. Hopefully now we can plan some bigger things for later in the year for her.”

An experienced event rider, Bellissimo has been campaigning various horses at the four-star level for several years. Still, she found the terrain at the Virginia Horse Center to provide a unique challenge that is difficult to find in the United States.

“[The course] was beautifully built,” Bellissimo said. “It’s just the undulations, you know? It adds a little bit of complexity for the younger ones when their balance still isn’t quite there. It’s such a nice bit of terrain, and having that hill is always interesting to see how the horses actually cope with it. You don’t always get that privilege of really getting a chance to stay galloping for a couple of minutes uphill. But all in all, I thought it was built really well.”

Now that she’s back and fighting fit, Bellissimo is aiming to ride Tremanton in the Advanced at the Horse Park of New Jersey, before possibly entering her in the Maryland Five Star or in the CCI4*-L at The Event at Rebecca Farm. Bellissimo says that VHC Eventing was a great fitness run for her horses.

“I think it’s great,” she said. “Normally I would go to Bromont, but I sadly can’t this year because we’ve got other commitments. I love the new flavor for the cross country. Over the last couple of years, it’s really changed. They’ve obviously invested heavily. For a fitness run, I think it’s super.”

Alyssa Phillips and Centerfold. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

Finally, in the CCI1*-L, Alyssa Phillips and Centerfold are poised to claim their first FEI win as a pair– should they have a clear show jumping round tomorrow. The combination claimed the lead in the CCI1*-L, after Lisa Chan and Picture This parted ways at fence five on the cross country course. Centerfold is a young, up-and-coming horse that is still learning the ropes at the FEI level. Originally in third place at the end of the day yesterday, “Playboy” put in a double clear cross country round to finish on his dressage score of 31.8.

“He was great,” Phillips said. “He is still a young horse. He’s six this year. He did the five-year-olds last fall at the Maryland Five Star, and came in second. I thought it would be a great educational trip to bring all my horses up here, because I’m based in Florida year round, so we don’t have these types of hills. So it was really great for both my horses to run on the terrain and the courses were prepared beautifully.”

It’s notoriously difficult to prepare for an event with plenty of terrain coming from a particularly flat area like Florida. Despite the additional challenge, Playboy crossed the finish flags with more gas in the tank.

“I was very happy with him,” Phillips said. “He came home with plenty of run, which was nice. Hopefully we’ll jump well tomorrow.”

As VHC Eventing is only his second FEI event, the young Irish Sport Horse found the course difficult, but came home more knowledgeable and more confident than when he left the startbox. The biggest challenge on course proved to be a tree at the combination in the final water complex.

“He spooked pretty hard off of [the tree], but he’s such a genuine brave horse that he was like, ‘That’s scary, but okay, I’m gonna go,’” Phillips said. “But it was nice to feel him grow in confidence the whole way around. With every show, he just keeps getting better and better and improving, which is nice to see in a young horse.”

Moving up to the International level isn’t a simple process; Phillips credits the addition of the one-star level for making it easier.

“It’s been a really smooth transition, and it’s really nice to have the Modified level and the one-star level,” Phillips said. “I really love it. I take all my horses, all my young horses, through it. So really appreciative for that in between Training and Preliminary level. Hopefully things go well, and we’ll move up to the two-star level this fall.”

Phillips isn’t putting pressure on herself or on Playboy going into the show jumping round tomorrow. “He’s a good boy,” Phillips said. “Whatever happens, happens. But I’m proud. I’m proud of him and the horse that he’s grown into.”

The backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains brings a sentimental touch to a weekend that has been so far filled with breakthrough moments. The beautiful views have only added to the overall feeling of triumph as horses and riders have celebrated big wins– whether that’s Ashley Kehoe with her first CCI3* win, or the many rookie riders, who may not find themselves on the leaderboard, but who nonetheless won their own personal victories crossing the finish line at their first FEI event in the foothills of Virginia.

The current results for the National divisions are as follows…

Advanced Intermediate
First – Chris Talley & FE Marco Polo
Second – Lucienne Bellissimo & Kitsch Couture HPK
Third – Lucia Strini & DHI Kevin G

Open Intermediate
First – Ariel Grald & Libris Charlotte
Second – Lucia Strini & Keynote Dassett
Third – Lucia Strini & Excel Cool Quality

Open Preliminary A
First – Devin Robel & Gillou
Second – Daniel Clasing & Barbados OS
Third – Nicholas Beshear & Rollo

Open Preliminary B
First – Daniel Clasing & Sportsfield All Out
Second – Valerie Pride & Excel Star Je T’Aime
Third – Sydney Elliott & Greenhall Good Decision

Preliminary Rider
First – Brooke Kahl & Nata Montada SCF
Second – Austin Skeens & HSH Bangarang
Third – Heidi Siegmund & Ashwood HJ Leandro

Modified Rider
First – Lee Maher & HTF Charming Cooley
Second – Ava Wehrs & Cisko A
Third – Susan Gallagher & HH Rockstar

Open Modified
First – Caitlin Romeo & Fernhill B Good
Second – Fylicia Barr & Heigh Ho Hero
Third – Morgan Booth & Cold Red Rum

Junior Training Rider
First – Iselin Byars & CSF Dassett Decoy
Second – Madeline DeMeirsman & Digby
Third – Kelley Sell & Mojave Moon

Open Training
First – Susan Plumb & Bugsy Malone
Second – Kaitlin Clasing & TGS Lions Sunshine
Third – Daniel Clasing & Glen Future

Senior Training Rider
First – Jessica Sappenfield & Westwood
Second – Mary Clare & Golden King
Third – Emilia Sweeny & Fernhill Jack Sparrow

Training Horse
First – Riley Zgrebnak & Cooley Roan Star
Second – Adelaide French & CFH Darker Royale
Third – Tori Nuckols & Nonpareil SPF

Junior Novice Rider
First – Olivia Hickman & Rocktop Dreamer
Second – Millie Bronstad-Hay & Diarados Boy
Third – Elliot Bizjak & N’Pressive

Novice Horses
First – Kendall Norris & Aneira
Second – Ariel Grald & MGH Catch Me
Third – Barbara Crabo & I.M. Frankie

Open Novice
First – Kyleigh Christians & Magnifique K
Second – Kristina Marth & Redfield Teun
Third – Erin Weil & Patriot Games

Senior Novice Rider
First – Catherine Ramsey & Cakewalk
Second – Meili Gregg & Cooley Triskele
Third – Gillian Ayers & Sawyer

Beginner Novice Horse
First – Domenica Kujawa & Cesar
Second – Abigael Flannery & Beam Me Up Scotty
Third – Brittany Hebets-Miller & Radiant SPF

Junior Beginner Novice Rider
First – Molly Smithers & Wizard of Ozzy
Second – Elliot Bizjak & Melody of Excellence HOF
Third – Olivia Swank & Truly a Moon Shot

Open Beginner Novice
First – Lauren Sumner & Excel Star Babadook
Second – AJ Carter & Texas Avalanche
Third – Ruth Cruz & Malibu in Motion

Senior Beginner Novice Rider A
First – Lara Morris & Swan’s Shine Brightly
Second – Kristyl Callison & After Eight
Third – Sara Laird & Captain Morgan

Senior Beginner Novice Rider B
First – Rachael Grice & Meadow Dancer
Second – Megan Nock & Tidewater’s Breeze
Third – Lynn Kundravi & Fox Ridge Rocket Man

Starter A
First – Selah Fritz & Dial A Lady
Second – Hayley Palmer & Perplexing
Third – Gina Keller & A to Zeke

Starter B
First – Julie McGuire & Mango
Second – Emily Hummel & Who’s That Guy
Third – Allison Smith & Threat Level Midnight

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

Some exciting new developments from Lee Lee Jones, Kareem Rosser and the Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital where she did much of her therapy following her accident in 2016. We’re honored to share the launch of the Lee Lee Jones Patient Assistance Fund at Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital, a new initiative founded by author, polo champion, and philanthropist Kareem Rosser. Created in tribute to Lee Lee Jones, the fund will support patients and families navigating financial barriers to essential recovery services like therapy and medical equipment. The goal? A $1 million endowment to ensure long-term impact. Bonus: 5% of proceeds from Kareem’s memoir When You’re Ready, A Love Story — which shares his journey with Lee Lee — will go directly to the fund. Learn more and donate here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

VHC Eventing (VA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Woodside Spring H.T. (VA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Spring Coconino H.T. (AZ): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Willow Draw Charity H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Flora Lea Spring H.T. (NJ): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]

Major International Events

Bicton International (UK): [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream]

Equestrian Festival Baborówko (Poland): [Website] [Schedule] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream]

Links & Reading

British Eventing and the United States Eventing Association Forge Historic International Partnership

Reiner Klimke Wowed The World At 1984 LA Games

Groundwork Part 1: Improve Connection By Building Trust from the Ground

Relief for Roaring: Possible New Surgical Procedure

Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands

Riders like Allison Springer trust World Equestrian Brands and Equilibrium Products’ leg protection. The Tri-Zone Ultra Brushing Boot is among the most versatile boots on the market, designed to be the perfect all-rounder and suitable for all disciplines from endurance and racing, to dressage, jumping, hacking, and even ideal for turnout. Shop for your new pair or set here.

Video Break

An 18.5 for Laura Collett and London 52 at Bicton on Friday!