Classic Eventing Nation

Meet Me In Maryland: Inaugural CCI5* Set to Take Eventing to the Next Level

By on Oct 6, 2021 9:30 am -

Photo by Amber Heintzberger.

With less than two weeks to go, excitement is building around the inaugural Maryland 5* Three-Day Event. The new facilities, just down the road from the site of the longtime Fair Hill International Three-Day Event, are rapidly being transformed into a hub for spectators and vendors, with crews paving roads and the jog strip in the racetrack infield last week, VIP seating being erected around the main arena, and various hospitality locations set up at key points on the cross country course.

While Fair Hill and its accompanying Festival in the Country have long been a staple of the fall eventing calendar in the United States, the new Maryland 5* is taking everything to the next level. CEO Jeff Newman said that while the new event will retain some of the flavor of the previous event, it will definitely be bringing the sport of eventing into the future.

With activity focused around the main arena, located in the racetrack infield’s “Fair Hill Special Events Zone” there will be various tiers of VIP seating and hospitality (see video with Jeff Newman), and either side of the stadium will be flanked by trade fair vendors. General admission tickets will include access to the grounds, trade fair, Young Event Horse competition on Thursday and Friday, and the warmup areas.

Stadium seating will be ticketed, except for the top few rows of the permanent grandstand. The Blade and Bow VIP section offers reserved seating and all-inclusive hospitality for the duration of the event. An exciting aspect of the Sponsor Chalets, with private hospitality for guests, is that the reserved seating faces the stadium on one side, where dressage and show jumping will take place, while the other side offers sweeping views of the start box and finish line on the cross-country course.

Activities for kids and families will take place near the main entrance, and separate tickets are available for a beer and spirits. The Brook Bend Interiors Arts and Crafts Center will offer activities for kids as well as retail; the Maryland Horse Industry Board’s “Horseland”, which they offer at the Maryland State Fair every year, will offer up close and personal encounters with ponies, miniature horses and other rescues, as well as interactive, educational activities like how to groom a horse. Dog owners can take advantage of the KONG® Equine Doggie Daycare — you must register ahead of time to use this service.

Spectators who aren’t directly interested in the competition (i.e. the non-horsey spouses who get dragged along to take the kids to Horseland while their partner swoons over the horses and riders), may find respite in the Beer, Wine and Spirits festival on Saturday (requiring a separate ticket) and the Maryland Fresh Foods Fest on Sunday (free admission), as well as live entertainment. On Thursday and Friday this area will showcase local non-profit organizations.

Paving the jog strip. Photo by Amber Heintzberger.

There are multiple international riders crossing the pond to compete, partly thanks to the cancellation of other major events due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and partly because the very attractive money (a purse of $300,000 total in the 5*, with $100k going to the winner). The illustrious list includes Zara Tindall, former European Champion, Olympic Silver Medalist and a granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth, as well as three-time Kentucky winner Oliver Townend (GBR), Harry Meade (GBR), Tim and Jonelle Price (NZL), Astier Nicholas (FRA) and Maxime Livio (FRA).

Newman explained that the international horses will fly over on a Dutta Corporation Jet at a reduced rate, and then be transported at no cost to riders by Brook Ledge horse van after quarantining at The Ark at JFK Airport. Dutta Corporation has long been a sponsor of Fair Hill, and this partnership makes the international travel more affordable. There will also be unique amenities for riders at the event, including a tent sponsored by the active wear brand ALO Yoga, where riders can relax, do complimentary yoga classes, or have a massage. This Relaxation Zone will be located at the far end of the infield from the spectator area, conveniently close to stabling.

One of the most exciting aspects of the new venue for both riders and spectators is the ample open space to accommodate the cross country courses. The entire venue is part of the Fair Hill Environmental Resources Area, which is a State Park and is managed by the Department of Natural Resources. All of the fields and forests are impeccably maintained.

Designed by Ian Stark and built by Eric Bull’s ETB Equine Construction, the cross country course encompasses three separate open areas connected by galloping lanes. The established turf has been groomed to perfection, and Bull’s Maryland-themed fences are truly works of art. (Sorry, but the actual fences are still under wraps, so no photos!) Event Manager Kaleigh Collett said that there will food trucks at strategic locations on the course and a shuttle to take spectators to key viewing and entertainment areas.

The three main areas of the course include the gently rolling Timber Field, where the start and finish are located; that is connected by the “Unnamed Tributary”, a connecting galloping lane through the woods, to the Middle Hayfield, which is more steeply hilly terrain. Granny’s Run, a manmade land bridge over a natural stream, connects this to the Sawmill Field, which slopes gradually uphill and includes several big complexes including the main water jump and the Fair Hill bank, as well as more fun Maryland-themed fences.

Newman pointed out that the Maryland 5* is a great economic stimulus for Northeast Maryland and all of the businesses that have had a tough go of it over the past year and a half due to Covid-19.

“A lot of our partners are Maryland businesses, like the Select Event Group, which is building all of the structures for spectators,” he said. In their travels to Maryland for the competition, Newman encourages spectators to look beyond the event venue. “Just down the road we have great crab restaurants, breweries, and quaint shopping,” he said. “Cecil County is one of Maryland’s best-kept secrets.”

Event CEO Jeff Newman and Event Manager Kaleigh Collett. Photo by Amber Heintzberger.

Maryland 5 Star: [Website] [Schedule] [Entries] [Tickets] [Volunteer]

Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Oct 6, 2021 12:01 am -

Caitlin Gooch (Saddle Up and Read), Carson Cressley, Emily and Sarah Harris (Sisters Horsing Around), and Sydney Collier (Paralympian – Paradressage) at EQUITANA USA. Photo via Caitlin Gooch.

I’m still just so happy I was able to make it to EQUITANA USA this year, and some of the people I was lucky enough to meet really made it an unforgettable weekend. The exhibition and trade show focused around a theme of “Discovering Diversity”, showcasing the brilliant variety of horse sports and disciplines as well as the enthusiasts who also represent a wide variety of backgrounds. We get so stuck in a bubble, following one sport the majority of the time — this was a nice reminder that our world is just one small part of a larger universe revolving around a common thread of love of the horse.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Morven Park International CCI4*-L (Leesburg, Va.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Schedule] [Volunteer]

Woodside International H.T. (Woodside, Ca.): [Website] [Volunteer] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Heritage Park H.T. (Olathe, Ks.): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Hitching Post Farm H.T. (South Royalton, Vt.): [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Poplar Place Farm H.T. (Hamilton, Ga.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

Radnor Hunt H.T. (Malvern, Pa.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

WindRidge Farm H.T. (Mooresboro, Nc.): [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Major International Events

Military Boekelo Enschede CCIO4*-L & FEI Nations Cup of Eventing: [Website] [Info Hub] [Entries] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Wednesday Reading List:

The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials will have a new Event Director at the helm after the appointment of Martyn Johnson. Prior to accepting this position, Martyn served as Event Director for Burgham International as well as Sport Director for the Event Rider Masters series. More on the appointment here.

Nominations are now open for the 2021 USEA Appreciation Awards! These awards were created as an opportunity for the eventing community to recognize and honor people who have served the sport tirelessly both in a non-riding capacity and riding capacity. The deadline for submitting nominations is October 31 — you can find a description of the awards acceptation nominations and more information on how to submit here.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to vote for our eventing friends (particularly supergroom Stephanie Simspon!) in the 2021 FEI Awards — learn more here.

The application deadline for the Strides for Equality Equestrians Ever So Sweet scholarship is rapidly approaching! Have you applied yet? Learn more here.

Morven Park riders: be sure to take advantage of several course walk opportunities at the inaugural CCI4*-L and Horse Trials this weekend. Walk the CCI4* track with Phyllis Dawson on Friday, October 8 and the Novice, Training and Preliminary courses with Lisa Bauman, Lynn Symansky and Meghan O’Donoghue, respectively on Saturday, October 9. Times for all walks are TBA — click here to learn more.

See who will be representing the on-fire Team GB at this weekend’s Nation’s Cup leg, happening at Boekelo.

International show jumper Mavis Spencer recently took up steaming hay for her string of competition horses. It was a groom’s perspective that helped turn her on to the idea, and soon she saw for herself how beneficial the steamed hay was, especially when her horses were on the road traveling to shows. Read more in this Haygain blog.

Watch This:

Ever wondered what it’s like to be an eventing influencer? H&C+ followed along with four eventing stars as they venture to training camp for a new series available worldwide on the H&C+ platform. New episodes every two weeks, and the first is already up and ready for watching. Click here to sign up — it’s well worth it!

Wednesday Video Break:

Take a look at the beautiful grounds hosting Boekelo’s CCIO4*-L this weekend:

WHAT A VIEW 👀

From the stables to the main area 🙏🏻

Founders Military Boekelo Military Boekelo – Enschede #mbe21 #MBE2021

Posted by Military Boekelo – Enschede on Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Riders Reflect on the Importance of Jacqueline Mars and Karen Stives Grants

By on Oct 5, 2021 3:00 pm -

Announced last month, the Jacqueline B. Mars National Competition & Training Grant and the Karen E. Stives Endowment Fund Grants assisted several horse and rider combinations’ travel to compete at CHIO Aachen in Germany (Sept. 15-19), and will assist others to travel to and compete at the upcoming FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ The Netherlands CCIO4*-L at Military Boekelo in Enschede, The Netherlands (Oct. 7-10).

Jacqueline B. Mars International Competition & Training Grants

The Jacqueline B. Mars International Competition & Training Grant is awarded annually to up to two eventing athletes who have not represented the United States as part of an Olympics, Pan American, or World Equestrian Games team and have been identified as having the potential to represent the U.S. in future international competitions.

The following horse and rider combinations have been named recipients of the Jacqueline B. Mars International Competition & Training Grants for 2021:

  • Sydney Elliott, Bossier City, Louisiana, with QC Diamantaire, a 2010 Oldenburg gelding owned by Carol Stephens
  • Ariel Grald, Southern Pines, North Carolina, with Leamore Master Plan, a 2009 Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Annie Eldridge

Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

As the two recipients of the Jacqueline B. Mars National Competition & Training Grant, Elliott and Grald were supported in their travel to and competition at the CHIO Aachen as part of the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team — alongside past grant recipients Tamie Smith and Will Coleman — that achieved historic success in Aachen taking home second place in the FEI Eventing Nations Cup, the highest result by a U.S. team at the prestigious event.

Elliott was also named a grant recipient of the Karen E. Stives Endowment Fund Grant, which will support her travel to and competition at the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ The Netherlands CCIO4*-L at Military Boekelo this month.

“It’s such an honor to ride for the U.S., and we’re very grateful to receive these grants,” stated Elliott. “I know I would not be where I am without the help and the funding from the USET Foundation. It’s huge for us.”

Grald also commented that grants are integral in preparing U.S. riders for the greatest stages in the world. “The purpose of the grant is to provide international experiences to build [horse and rider teams] toward [international] senior team championships. It’s so important for us as American riders to go overseas and get that experience abroad,” shared Grald. “It means so much to have that support [from the USET Foundation] behind you. It means a lot to me as a rider and to my owner, Annie Eldridge.”

It was Grald’s first trip to Aachen, and she noted that the team aspect made the record-breaking results that much more meaningful. “My goal is to ride on a world championship or Olympic team one day, so [competing at Aachen] was a building block for those future experiences,” she said. “To be on a team and to be able to share that experience with those other riders and to learn from them was really special.

Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“I have to thank Mrs. Mars and the USET Foundation,” she continued. “I really appreciate [being part of the experience in Aachen] and having so much support.”

Elliott echoed the benefit of having the team experience abroad. “Our team was so amazing, and I was really thrilled to be part of the team in Aachen,” she stated. “As riders, as well as the owners, we’re so incredibly thankful for the USET Foundation and these grants. We would not be where we are without everyone’s help and generosity.”

Karen E. Stives Endowment Fund Grants

The Karen E. Stives Endowment Grant supports athlete and horse combinations already competing at four-star and five-star level with the perceived potential to achieve Elite level by providing financial assistance for a competition and preparatory training opportunity.

The following horse and rider combinations have been named recipients of the 2021 USET Foundation Karen E. Stives Endowment Fund Grants:

  • Tamie Smith, Murrieta, California, and Mai Baum, a 2006 German Sport Horse gelding owned by Alexandra Ahearn, Ellen Ahearn, and Eric Markell
  • Tamie Smith, Murrieta, California, and Danito, a 2009 Hanoverian gelding owned by Ruth Bley
  • Jennie Brannigan, West Grove, Pennsylvania, and FE Lifestyle, a 2010 Warmblood gelding owned by Nina and Timothy Gardner
  • Matt Flynn, Ocala, Florida, and Wizzerd, a 2009 Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by A. Patrick Flynn, Kathleen Flynn, and Merry Go Round Farm
  • Sydney Elliott, Bossier City, Louisiana, and QC Diamantaire, a 2010 Oldenburg gelding owned by Carol Stephens

Smith on Mai Baum and Elliott with QC Diamantaire competed at CHIO Aachen. The remaining combinations will compete at the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ The Netherlands CCIO4*-L.

Smith, who was the traveling reserve for the U.S. eventing team at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan, competed as part of the second-place team at CHIO Aachen with her Olympic mount Mai Baum and will also compete at Military Boekelo with Danito thanks to the Karen E. Stives Endowment Fund Grant.

For Smith, these grants represent an opportunity for the U.S. eventing team to garner more top finishes at major competitions.

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“In order for our country to get back to podium finishes, I think it’s super important to get as much team experience as possible,” stated Smith. “You can’t really substitute experience [for anything else], so it’s such a huge leg up for [the U.S. to consistently offer riders these opportunities]. So that’s been unbelievable.”

Of the Karen E. Stives Endowment Fund Grant, Smith recalls being starstruck by Stives as a child and was inspired by Stives’ ability to support future generations of eventing riders through this grant. “Karen Stives was a legend,” said Smith. “It’s so cool that she has been able to do this for our sport and be able to give back because I think it’s going to make a huge difference [for the high performance U.S. eventing program]. A huge thank you to the USET Foundation and Karen Stives and the selectors who award the grants. It’s not possible [to have these important experiences] without all of this, and it’s a huge benefit to helping us to get where we need to go which is winning medals again.”

Jennie Brannigan and FE Lifestyle. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Brannigan also noted how Stives’ impact on the sport has contributed to the honor of receiving this grant. “I grew up hearing all about Karen Stives, so I’m really grateful to her and the USET Foundation,” she said. “I’m excited to go back to Boekelo and hopefully do a great job for our country and Team USA.”

For Flynn, being a recipient of the grant was extra special for him because his childhood coach was a personal friend of Karen Stives. “It’s an extreme gift that Karen left to the sport,” he said, “and I’m very honored and grateful to receive the grant from the USET Foundation.

“[Being able to travel to Europe and compete at Boekelo] wouldn’t be possible without this endowment fund in Karen’s memory,” Flynn continued.

“That’s the most special part. Karen felt the importance to give hopeful [team championship] riders opportunities like this to gain European experience, so it’s my goal to make the most of it and do our country proud.”

Matt Flynn and Wizzerd. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Thanks to the Jacqueline B. Mars Grant and the Karen E. Stives Endowment Fund, these combinations can continue their training with the goal of representing the United States on the greatest international stages.

Get Out the Eventing Vote for the 2021 FEI Awards!

By on Oct 5, 2021 1:00 pm -

Nominees have been announced for 2021 FEI Awards, and now it’s up to the public to determine the winners! Choose your favorites from the final shortlist of candidates for FEI Best Athlete, Rising Star, Best Groom, Against All Odds and Solidarity Awards from today until Oct. 17. Winners will be announced at a gala dinner in Antwerp, Belgium on Nov. 17.

The public vote will count 50% of the total vote, with the other 50% being decided upon by this judging panel. As patriotic citizens of Eventing Nation, we know which party you’re going to be voting for. Here are the eventing nominees:

Nominee: Julia Krajewski (GER), up for Best Athlete

Why she deserves to win: Julia made history in Tokyo, breaking the glass ceiling to prove that prove that a woman can wear individual eventing gold. Julia overcame innumerable obstacles and heartbreaks on her path to the top step of the podium — she could easily have been a nominee for the Against All Odds award, too. 

Ingrid Klimke and her daughter, the newly-minted Young Rider European Champion Greta Busacker. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Nominee: Greta Busacker (GER), up for Rising Star

Why she deserves to win: Greta, age 19, is the daughter of 2020 winner of the decade Ingrid Klimke, but she’s been making a name for herself in her own right. Most recently she became the 2021 Young Rider European Champion and earned big wins this year at Bad Harzburg, Westerstede and Radolfzell.

Tsetserleg and Stephanie Simpson. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Nominee: Stephanie Simpson (USA), up for Best Groom

Why she deserves to win: As a longtime groom for Boyd Martin, nobody works harder than Stephanie to keep the elite equine athletes under her charge happy, healthy and fit. The photo above says it all — Stephanie has her hands full! — but whether putting in long hours at the farm or on the road, her unwavering work ethic and passion for horsemanship is clear.

Laura Collett and London 52. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Nominee: Laura Collett (GBR), up for Against All Odds

Why she deserves to win: Success has never been handed to Laura, and the obstacles she has overcome — including a severe cross country accident in 2013 that put her in a coma for six days and destroyed her vision in one eye back — would have derailed a less determined individual. From her five-star win last year at Pau to team gold in Tokyo, she’s fought her way to the top.

Nominee: Sue Ockendon (CAN), up for the Solidarity Award

Why she deserves to win: As an FEI Technical Delegate and longtime Bromont Horse Trials organizer, Sue Ockendon has plenty enough on her plate. Yet she’s made time for the MARS Bromont Rising Program, established in 2019 to offer financial aid and training to eventers under the age of 25. And the importance of her work to improve the quality and safety of cross country courses cannot be overstated.

 

The amazing stories of all the nominees in the five categories can be found here.

The public now has 13 days, Oct. 5-17, to cast their votes for their heroes. Make sure you have your say and vote here!

The complete list of nominees for the FEI Awards 2021 are:

Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete – paying tribute to the athlete who over the past year has demonstrated exceptional skill and taken the sport to a new level.

  • Peder Fredricson (SWE), Jumping
  • Julia Krajewski (GER), Eventing
  • Jessica von Bredow Werndl (GER), Dressage
  • Sir Lee Pearson (GBR), Para Dressage

Longines FEI Rising Star – for the youth athlete aged 14 to 21 who demonstrates outstanding sporting talent and commitment.

  • Sam Dos Santos (NED), 15, Vaulting
  • Greta Busacker (GER), 19, Eventing
  • Jimena Carrillo Watanabe (MEX), 14, Jumping
  • Marten Luiten (NED), 20, Dressage

Cavalor FEI Best Groom – for the behind-the-scenes hero who ensures the horses they look after are given the best possible care.

  • Stephanie Simpson (USA), groom for Eventing athlete Boyd Martin (USA)
  • Jorge Luiz Gonzales (ARG), groom for Jumping athlete Matias Albarracin (ARG)
  • Kathleen Van Winden (NED), groom for Para Dressage athlete Sanne Voets (NED)
  • Marie Johansson (SWE), groom for Dressage athlete Patrick Kittel (SWE)

FEI Against All Odds – for an inspiring individual who has pursued their equestrian ambitions and overcome challenges and obstacles along the way.

  • Beatrice de Lavalette (USA), Para Dressage 
  • Laura Collett (GBR), Eventing
  • Japan Equestrian Federation
  • Dr Ruben Fausto Arismendi Garat (URU), Endurance Veterinarian

FEI Solidarity – for an FEI Solidarity or equestrian development project, an individual or organisation that has used skill, dedication and energy to expand the sport.

  • Hellenic Equestrian Federation (GRE)
  • Sue Ockendon (CAN), founder of the Bromont Rising Program
  • Compton Cowboys (USA), community programme in Compton, Los Angeles
  • Equulus Charity ‘Pursuit of Dreams’ (CHN)

The winners will be decided by combining 50% of the public’s vote and 50% of the judges’ vote for the final result. The nine expert judges for this year’s FEI Awards are:

  • Ingmar De Vos (BEL), FEI President
  • Matthieu Baumgartner (SUI), Longines Vice President of Marketing
  • Peter Bollen (BEL), Founder and chief nutritionist of Cavalor
  • Martin Atock (IRL), Managing Director of Peden Bloodstock
  • Kyra Kyrklund (FIN), six-time Dressage Olympian for Finland, six-time FEI Dressage World Cup™ finalist and winner of the 1991 FEI World Cup™ Final
  • Andrew Hoy (AUS), eight time Olympian and team silver and individual bronze medal winner for Eventing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games
  • Lucy Katan (GBR), founder of British Grooms Association (BGA) and the International Grooms Association (IGA) with the support of the FEI
  • Hannia Chinchilla de Wolf (CRC), President of the Federación Ecuestre de Costa Rica and FEI Solidarity Committee member
  • Wendy Laeremans (BEL), Belgium National Federation Sport Director & Chef de Mission

 

Tickets for the 2022 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Are Now On Sale!

By on Oct 5, 2021 11:00 am -

Photo by Sally Spickard.

The moment you’ve all been waiting for is here! Tickets for the 2022 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event are now on sale, and with next year slated to be the first spectator-friendly edition of the event since 2019 it’s sure to be a full weekend of eventing greatness. The 2022 event is scheduled to run April 28 through May 1. Fans can also reserve tailgating spots (pro tip: these sell fast and it’s recommended you reserve yours immediately) and/or VIP hospitality packages to complement their weekend.

To pick up your tickets, visit https://kentuckythreedayevent.com/tickets/. We can’t wait to see you in Kentucky next spring!

Who Jumped It Best? Jump Start Training Level Edition

By on Oct 5, 2021 9:00 am -

While at Equitana USA this past weekend, we got a chance to wander over to catch some of the action at Jump Start, which was running concurrently and also hosting Area VIII’s 2021 Championships. I was able to catch just a few riders tackling Cathy Weischhoff’s cross country course on Friday evening at the end of our day at Equitana, so I thought I’d compile them for a quick edition of Who Jumped It Best?

The majority of the riders pictured hail from the Training Amateur Championship division, though we also have a few appearances from other Training divisions. Apologies for not being able to capture more, but you know the drill! Cast your vote for the pair presenting the best overall picture of harmony using the poll below. Bragging points and EN karma to the winner!

Sophie Coorssen and Coolnaboy Rubens. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Hayley Barbato and Whiskey Road. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Lydia Eifler and Hans Christian. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Maria Temperini and The Flying Dutchman. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Lily Callahan and Royal Crest’s Granite Permission. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Scott Owens and Summer Knight. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Bailey Hennings and Floral Clock. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Erin Neville and Bluestone. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Ruth Rosendaul and Kaloosh. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feeds

By on Oct 5, 2021 12:01 am -

Lily Callahan and Royal Crest’s Granite Permission. Photo by Sally Spickard.

I’m dedicating today’s News & Notes to all of our eventers out there riding horses “of a different color”, aka breeds you typically might not expect to see doing the sport. Truthfully, the term “horse of a different color” in this context is really a bit exclusionary. After all, haven’t we been shown time and time again that just about any horse can at least dabble in eventing? Name a breed of horse, or a mix of breeds, and you’re likely to find one eventing somewhere — this is one of the things I love the most about the sport. Going on a (I’ll try to keep it brief) tangent, I’m re-reading Malcolm Gladwell’s book Blink, which dives into the nitty-gritty of the snap judgement and first impression and how humans are driven by these instincts at a very basic, unconscious level. Just as with everything else, our lives and experiences have shaped our perspective and therefore affect our first impressions.

I bet if you asked a fair majority of eventing enthusiasts what type of horse they pictured when the term “event horse” is mentioned, they’d tell you they saw an athletic, lean, rangy, powerful horse with good conformation, correct gaits, and a powerful gallop and jump. Sure, the eventing archetype may look a lot like this — but event horses come in all shapes, sizes and colors (just as event riders do!). I attended the Equitana USA exhibition this past weekend and was treated to a display of all sorts of disciplines, breeds and riders. Honestly? It was sort of refreshing to be at an event that wasn’t only for eventers — but of course, I did seek out the eventers!

Lily Callahan and Royal Crest’s Granite Permission, her 18-year-old American Saddlebred gelding, were one pair I had the privilege of meeting this weekend. Lily was kind enough to venture over to participate in the Equitana USA American Saddlebred demo shortly before heading out to cross country, where she was competing for the Area VIII Training level title at Jump Start. Lily’s had her Saddlebred for several years, moving through the levels and competing through Modified. They went on to finish 10th in the Training Amateur Championship over the weekend, setting a grand example as ambassadors of the breed while they were at it.

We want to showcase more of these event horses of all types — please tip us by emailing [email protected] and show off your horse!

Events Closing Today: Waredaca Classic Three-Day Event & H.T., The Event at TerraNova, Tryon Riding & Hunt Club “Morris the Horse” Trials, Windermere Run H.T., Holly Hill H.T., Fresno County Horse Park H.T. (Oct), Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event

Events Opening Today: Fresno County Horse Park H.T. (Nov), SAzEA Fall H.T.

Tuesday News:

We are rapidly approaching blanketing season, and our friends at SmartPak want to kit your horse out with the latest and greatest in warmth. As a part of a mega giveaway period on SmartPak, you can enter to win two blankets this week just in time for the cooler temperatures. Click here to submit your entry — and be sure to keep an eye on SmartPak over the next few weeks for new giveaways.

Go behind the scenes at the #1 ranked UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and how its future Equine Performance and Rehabilitation Center will enable an Olympic-level approach to sport horse health and injury prevention in a free virtual event open to the public entitled “Going for Gold: Setting the Standard for Equine Athletes”. Attendees will also learn about the unmatched educational opportunities the center will provide to veterinary students. You can register for this free event here.

Jordán Linstedt has had more than her share of ups and downs when it comes to life and horses. In the latest issue of Sidelines Magazine, Jordán reflects on her horse of a lifetime, the late RevitaVet Capato, motherhood, and what the future holds — you can read the article here.

Multiple factors need to be considered when it comes to safety in eventing. Five-star rider Jon Holling and Landsafe co-founder Danny Warrington discussed some important topics pertaining to safety at the USEA Event College at AEC last month. Read their thoughts on selecting a trainer, schooling safety, moving up and more here.

Hot on Horse Nation: Just-in feedback on the newly-released essay collection, Horse Girls, edited by Halimah Marcus: “Recovering, aspiring, and devoted riders redefine the iconic bond,” states the cover – Horse Girls is an essay collection exploring what it means to be a “horse girl.” Edited by Halimah Marcus, it features essays from instantly recognizable names, like Jane Smiley, but also plenty of work from authors not quite as well-known. The book showcases the diversity of the horse world, featuring works from authors around the world, from Black authors, Pakistani authors, authors with Native American heritage, LGBTQ+ authors and transgender authors and that is what makes it great. Read the review here.

Tuesday Video Break:

Fresh off their trip to Tokyo, Australia’s Stuart and Karen Tinney sat down to answer some questions for Horseland Australia:

Monday Video: Relive Will Coleman’s Aachen Win

By on Oct 4, 2021 5:00 pm -

Ein historischer Moment beim CHIO Aachen 2021! William Coleman siegt als erster US-Amerikaner beim SAP-Cup

Vor zwei Wochen ist etwas historisches passiert! 🤩

Am 18. September hat Will Coleman Equestrian als erster US-Reiter überhaupt den SAP-Cup beim CHIO Aachen gewonnen! 🇺🇸

Lasst uns diesen speziellen Moment noch einmal zusammen genießen!

#chioaachen #weltfestdespferdesports #sap #thebestrun SAP Sports & Entertainment

*******************************************

Something historic happened two weeks ago! 🤩

On 18th September, William Coleman became the first US rider ever to win the SAP-Cup at the CHIO Aachen! 🇺🇸

Let's enjoy this special moment together once again!

Posted by CHIO Aachen on Saturday, October 2, 2021

Will Coleman came home a big winner from CHIO Aachen, taking home top honors in the CCIO4*-S with Off The Record, the 12-year-old syndicate-owned Irish Sport Horse known around the barn as “Timmy”. Will’s win was an enormous personal victory, having come oh so close to topping the podium at a number of international events in the past; and it’s also a huge achievement for US Eventing, as Will is not the first American to win Aachen. It was an all-around good weekend for Team USA — including Will, Tamie Smith, Ariel Grald, and Sydney Elliot — who finished second overall in the team competition, just a fraction behind Great Britain.

This video gives us a peek at their victorious cross country round and an inside look at Will’s immediate reaction to winning the whole shebang. Congratulations again, Will!

Weekend Winners: Areas II and VIII Crown Champions + More!

By on Oct 4, 2021 1:00 pm -

It’s Area Championship season as we get into the thick of the fall competition calendar, and we saw champions from both Area II and Area VIII take home their prizes over the weekend. Let’s jump right in!

This week’s Unofficial Low Score award was a battle of the 19s, but eventually it was Hannah Reeser and Ltl Ireland Summr Soldier, competing in the Area VIII Beginner Novice Amateur Championship, would took the top honors with a finishing score of 19.3 at Jump Start. Ltl Ireland Summr Soldier is a 2014 Morgan mare, and this pair is no stranger to competitive scores on the flat! Their personal best together came at this same event in 2019, where they earned a 15.5 to win the Beginner Novice Amateur Championship. They also finished third in the same division at this year’s USEA American Eventing Championships, also held at Kentucky Horse Park. Many congratulations, you two!

Coming closely behind Hannah and also finishing on scores in the 19s this week are Adalee Ladwig and Argenta MSF (Jump Start – Area VIII Open Novice Championship) and Julie Augustine and Texas Riddle (Maryland – Area II Novice Championship), who each ended on a score of 19.8. Well done to all!

Editor’s Note: As of publication, Facebook and Instagram are still down, so we’ll update this post with social media once they’re back up and running!

Fleur de Leap H.T. (Folsom, La.): [Website] [Results]

Training: Emily Jackson and Southern Reserver ERE (83.7)
Training/Novice: Margaret Morgan and Kegan MacCruise (37.1)
Novice: Kalie Beckers and Calla GBF (28.3)
Novice Junior: Hudsyn Bagwell and Ardeo Mermus Hill (37.4)
Beginner Novice: Ginny Harrison and Romeo Alfa R (31.8)
Beginner Novice Junior: Ann Parker Meyers and Lean Upon Me (34.3)
Novice/Beginner Novice: Hannah Reynolds and Painted Postcard (32.6)
Introductory: Delanie Ward and Wish Upon A Star (37.0)
Starter: McMillan Williams and Misty’s Sorrento Breeze (35.8)
Starter Junior: Victoria Sudkamp and Razzles (32.8)

Jump Start H.T. and Area VIII Championships (Lexington, Ky.): [Website] [Results]

Intermediate Championship: Dan Kreitl and Horales (46.0)
Open Intermediate: Allie Knowles and Street Call (50.7)
Open Preliminary Div 1: Benjamin Noonan and Keep Kitty (30.7)
Open Preliminary Div 2: Liz Halliday-Sharp and FE Caison (24.4)
Preliminary Championship: Maxine Preston and Wants To Be Cooley (32.2)
Open Training: Marty Riney and George Alexander (28.3)
Open Training Championship: Adalee Ludwig and Diego (29.1)
Open Training Junior Championship: Lydia Eifler and Hans Christian (25.0)
Training Amateur Championship: Cora Severs and Cuervo (25.2)
Training Horse: Ciaran Thompson and Ooh La La SCF (29.2)
Training Rider Div 1: Jenny Lackey and Dallo de la Galerna (25.5)
Training Rider Div 2: Micki McDaniel and Magic Artist (30.9)
Novice Amateur Championship: Jane Musselman and Bentley’s Best (25.5)
Novice Horse: Julia Spatt and Uptown Funk (25.7)
Novice Junior Championship: Victoria Baugh and Curioso (28.3)
Novice Rider Div 1: Ansley Whitehouse and Dynamic Knight (32.3)
Novice Rider Div 2: Erin Kowalewski and HSH Lastikko (21.7)
Novice Rider Div 3: Madeline Bletzacker and Landtino S (28.6)
Open Novice: Megan Edwards and Galwaybay HSH (24.1)
Open Novice Championship: Adalee Ladwig and Argenta MSF (19.8)
Beginner Novice Amateur Championship: Hannah Reeser and Ltl Ireland Summr Soldier (19.3)
Beginner Novice Horse: Tate Northrop and Bourbon Boy (26.8)
Beginner Novice Jr. Championship: Maggie Hahn and Duchess (32.0)
Beginner Novice Rider Div 1: Ajay Ryan and Cool Under Fire (32.5)
Beginner Novice Rider Div 2: Lindsay Parsley and Kilkenny Mile (28.0)
Open Beginner Novice: Kaylianna McMorris and Fernhill Future Star (28.0)
Open Beginner Novice Championship: Anika Hawes and Can Do Man (27.3)
Starter Div 1: Brittany Wilson and Playboy (26.3)
Starter Div 2: Danielle Northup and Charley (30.0)
Starter Div 3: Erika Adams and Girl On Fire (28.5)

Larkin Hill H.T. (North Chatham, Ny.): [Website] [Scores]

**Larkin Hill was run as a CT due to weather, and we are told the scoring reflects the final placings. We apologize if any of the results from this show are incorrect!**

Preliminary CT: Booli Selmayr and Carnivale King (28.7)
Training CT: Kate Day and Fortissimo (26.6)
Open Novice A: Emilie Smith and Kildare’s BGS Destination Street (32.6)
Open Novice B: Alexander Conrad and Lexington II (22.6)
Introductory A: Hayden Aureli and Number Nine (33.9)
Introductory B: Miriam Evans and Sunny (24.7)
Open Beginner Novice A: Sophia Grace and Craig Mor Tom (27.0)
Open Beginner Novice B: Alexander Conrad and Sequel (26.5)
Open Beginner Novice C: Morgen M Bowers and Joya de Esmeralda (28.5)

Thank you to Joan Davis of Flatlandsfoto for sharing these winner shots from Larkin Hill! Don’t forget to support your show photographers — Larkin Hill riders can order their shots from this weekend here.

The Maryland H.T. at Loch Moy Farm + Area II Championships (Adamstown, Md.): [Website] [Results]

Intermediate Championships: Tim Bourke and Quality Explosion (43.4)
Open Intermediate: Anna Loschiavo and Fernhill That Guy Jack (45.9)
Open Preliminary: Ryan Wood and Bellavista (38.9)
Preliminary Championships: Martin Douzant and Olympus (34.0)
Modified A: Holly Shade and Hang on Caitlyn (32.1)
Modified B: Tim Bourke and Kung Fu Quality (35.1)
Modified C: Lindsay Kelley and Plumes (31.9)
Modified Championships: Courtney Cooper and Briarhill Excel Star Take 2 (29.5)
Junior Open Training: Jenna Levesque and Paprika (36.8)
Junior Training Championships: Sydney Sturgill and Papa Pablo (42.4)
Open Training: Lexi Scovil and SH Just For Laughs (23.6)
Training Championships: Ashley Trier and LNJ Encyclopedia (30.2)
Training Rider: Kenya Siepser and Charlie Hustle (41.2)
Junior Novice Championships: Leeci Rowsell and Man of Conviction (30.2)
Junior Open Novice: Catherine Kelly and Cooley Meridian (36.4)
Novice Championships: Julie Augustine and Texas Riddle (19.8)
Novice Rider A: Cassandra Strobel and Weather Advisory (31.2)
Novice Rider B: Alexandria Huber and Willy Wonka (31.7)
Open Novice: Kate Coleman and Calloway (22.4)
Beginner Novice Championships: Rebecca Barber and Here and Now (29.5)
Beginner Novice Rider: Sonja Tucker and Gustav (28.0)
Junior Beginner Novice: Daisy Shumaker and The Magician’s Nephew (38.5)
Junior Beginner Novice Championships: Willow Chase and Diablo (25.1)
Open Beginner Novice: Courtney Cooper and Excel Star Quidam’s Cavalier (24.3)

Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (Nashville, Tn.): [Website] [Results]

Training: Sydney Ayres and Pucon (30.9)
Novice: Chelsea Sawtell and Covenant (24.5)
Beginner Novice A: Kim Clark and Mimi’s Musical (22.3)
Beginner Novice B: Sofie Rhodes and Fly High Harvey (35.9)
Starter A: Anne Dottore and Admiralty (34.0)
Starter B: Olivia Trotter and Corner Oak Loch Lorian (39.3)

Moqui Meadows H.T. (Greeley, Co.): [Website] [Results]

Open Training: Julie Pawlak and Catch Me (39.7)
Open Novice A: Dean Santistevan and Vegas (33.1)
Open Novice B: Kara Miller and Chesterland’s Knockout (31.0)
Open Beginner Novice A: Sarah Richards and LaMarca WF (32.0)
Open Beginner Novice B: Emmy Williams and Fortunate Rebel (31.3)
Introductory A: Madeline Backus and Felix Felicis (23.9)
Introductory B: Lauren Fedorczyk and C3’s Playing With Fire (37.1)

Spokane Sport Horse Seventh Annual Fall H.T. (Spokane, Wa.): [Website] [Results]

CCI3*-S: Stephanie Cooper and Sketchy Past (46.2)
CCI2*-S: Ella Kurtz and Sportsfield Harley Davis (37.7)
Open Intermediate: Ashley Widmer and What Are The Odds (53.0)
Open Preliminary: Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14 (28.5)
Open Modified: Dane Padgett and Cafe Noir (27.8)
Junior Training: Ella Eisenbarth and Bryn Carregwen Serendipity (31.8)
Open Training: Whitney Spicher and Ballon (27.9)
Training Amateur: Kathryn Daniel and de la Renta (28.4)
Training Three-Day: Annie Budiselich and Bff Brushfire (33.5)
Junior Novice: Hanni Sreenan and Enchanted (29.8)
Novice Amateur: Sandy Flowers and Reno’s Lad (29.8)
Open Novice: Devin Robel and Gillou (21.2)
Novice Three-Day: Olivia Murphy and Navigator (26.8)
Beginner Novice Amateur: Emily Morrison and Finn (31.3)
Junior Beginner Novice: Piper Hale and Diavolo (29.0)
Open Beginner Novice: Natalie Sullivan and Liberia (32.3)
Beginner Novice Three-Day: Kady Ellifritz and Yankee Bay (29.7)
Introductory A: Whitney Spicher and Jaguar’s Jewell (26.9)
Introductory B: Kathy Rundhaug and Etched In Copper (38.2)
FEH 2 Year Old: Ghislaine Homan-Taylor and Trilogy (72.9)
FEH 3 Year Old: Tanya Adamson and Idaho’s Icewater (73.7)
FEH 4 Year Old: Mary Burke and Valinteno (73.0)
FEH Yearling: Julie Bishop and TBF Sweet Harmony (69.7)
YEH 4 Year Old: Sarah Sullivan and La Copine (81.6)
YEH 5 Year Old: Lois James and Copper Fox (83.7)

Sundance Farm H.T. (Plymouth, Wi.): [Website] [Results]

Open Preliminary: Rebecca Roth and Chapter Two (31.7)
Open Training: Hannah Boyd and Billy McClusky (25.2)
Novice Rider Junior: Megan Holmes and VC Casandra (25.7)
Novice Rider Senior: Cathrine Wunderlich and Concatulations (30.2)
Open Novice: Lauren Miller and Beau’s My Daddy (30.2)
Beginner Novice Junior: Morgan Peterson and Tiz Vivid (29.0)
Beginner Novice Senior: Alexandra Walters and Wrenaissance (28.1)
Open Beginner Novice: Kenneth Dierks and Forget To Remember (34.3)
Starter A: Christy Schlough and Vanquish (33.0)
Starter B: Keileen Driscoll and White Gold (31.4)

Willow Draw Charity Show (Weatherford, Tx.): [Website] [Results]

Open Training: Rebecca Brown and Fe Chiara Mia (30.9)
Training Rider: Courtney Kurlger and Eagle Rising (33.4)
Novice Rider Junior: Scarlett Peinado and 50 Shades of Envy (31.0)
Novice Rider Senior: Ashton Jones and CMF Rembrandt (37.4)
Open Novice: Laura McEvoy and Visconti (28.3)
Beginner Novice Rider Junior: Avery Stroud and Valedictorian (31.5)
Beginner Novice Rider Senior: Anna Hailey and Roma (32.5)
Open Beginner Novice: Hannah Corlett and Mac Creiche (26.8)
Starter: Kamran Fatehdin and Native Black Label (36.6)

Kentucky Says ‘Yes!’ to EQUITANA USA 2021

By on Oct 4, 2021 11:00 am -

Dual Olympic Gold Medalist Phillip Dutton teaches the nuances of equestrian competition at EQUITANA USA. Photo courtesy of EQUITANA USA.

A marriage proposal was the icing on a huge cake celebrating the horse at EQUITANA USA this weekend. Thousands of fans poured into the Kentucky Horse Park Friday, Saturday and Sunday to experience the first North American iteration of the event in almost two decades. The premier horse industry event finally happened for in-person fans after moving all-virtual last year due to COVID-19.

Fans and professionals of all riding levels, disciplines, and breeds, as well as enthusiasts of all ages celebrated the horse during the three-day event.

Saturday afternoon saw the most unexpected highlight for EQUITANA USA 2021. Lindsay Partridge’s Confidence Building session worked on Suffolk, Va., trainer and owner Joe Musicaro as well as the horses. He dropped to one knee and proposed to Jennifer Rose, Partridge’s exhibition rider, as she prepared to dismount following the session. She said yes.

The engagement only added to the successful event.

“Getting back to in-person events has been a relief and celebration for everyone this year,” said Meghan Margewicz, the event director. “Since this was our debut for EQUITANA USA here, the excitement had a bit of an extra happy edge to it. The wedding proposal was a brilliant exclamation point for the weekend.”

“From the clinics and seminars to the activities and shopping, our attendees got a lot out of the weekend,” she continued. “We know we’re only going to grow in years to come.”

From the opening ribbon cutting by Margewicz and event spokesperson Jane Besehar, former First Lady of Kentucky, to the closing keynote from paralympian Sydney Collier, attendees basked in the love of the horse.

The Lost Art of Horsemanship panel featured (l to r): Pat Parelli, Max Cororan, Ronny Riemer and Karen Rohlf. Photo courtesy of EQUITANA USA.

“We’ve really enjoyed getting to see the other breeds,” said Chris Hazlewood of Chapel Hill, Tenn., who attended with his daughter Georgia. “It’s been exciting to see horses that we’ve never seen before.”

Reality television star Carson Kressley not only attended, but participated in the BraveHearts “Trail to Zero” ride to honor veterans who lose their mental health battle to suicide. BraveHearts works to solve that problem by offering equine assisted therapy and activities to veterans that would benefit. Kressley, most recently a judge on the Food Networks BBQ Brawl and Rupal’s Drag Race, is perhaps most known for one of the original cast members of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy.

Attendees packed sessions and clinics featuring U.S. Olympians Lauren Graves and Phillip Dutton. Legendary trainer Pat Parelli’s multiple sessions were also full of people and education. Top U.S. Polo player Nic Roldan not only presented, but exhibited his new Roldan Lifestyle brand of clothing.

Exhibitors were pleased with the new opportunity to connect with customers and equine enthusiasts who came from all around North America.

“This has been a fantastic show,” said Mike Stradiot of Denver, Colo.-based Drinking Post, a self-cleaning watering mechanism for the horse. “Personally, my favorite part of the show has been the opportunity to meet a ton of new people and interact with the market that traditionally we haven’t had an opportunity to get engaged with. It’s been a fantastic show, phenomenal people and it’s been a really good time.”

“I love EQUITANA because it brings a lot of different types of trainers all into one space,” said Kara Musgrave of Green Guard Equine. “So you can see a really big variety of some of the best horsemanship in the nation.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CUlvSlVLWZo/

2016 and 2021 Paralympian Sydney Collier closed out the weekend with a compelling closing keynote talk entitled, “Learning to Love the Lindas in Your Life.” She shared her experience with always resenting her immobile left arm (Linda) to reframe that resentment which improved her competitive performances.

“It’s not something I could order on late night television,” she quipped. “It’s actually something that’s taken a long time and it has taken a lot of surrounding myself with people who actually don’t see Linda as a lost cause.”

Collier used Linda as a metaphor to tell the audience they could overcome their own challenges in competition and in life.

“Let’s face it, there are no improvements to be made without taking that initial leap of faith, in starting the process,” she explained. “That’s where it’s so intimidating … to take that first step in whatever you’re trying to do.”

More event photos and experiences can be found on the EQUITANA USA website as well as its social channels (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter).

EQUITANA USA will return to the Kentucky Horse Park in September 2022. Official dates will be announced soon.

For more information about EQUITANA USA, visit www.equitanausa.com or www.kyhorsepark.com.