Classic Eventing Nation

Monday News & Notes

By on Feb 9, 2026 12:01 am -

One Big Thing: Adult Amateurs, Front and Center (As They Should Be)

There’s a certain kind of eventer who doesn’t make headlines often —- usually because they’re too busy doing the unglamorous work of the “do what you love, but also make enough money to pay at least some bills each month” juggling act. They close the laptop, drive to the barn, ride in the dark, and still show up the next morning like nothing happened.

That’s the point of the C Square Farm / Excel Star Sporthorses Adult Amateur Scholarship: celebrating the riders who quietly do it all. Careers, families, life, and horses.

For 2026, the program, helmed by 5* rider Courtney Cooper and her husband, Neal, awarded two scholarships, and after reviewing many thoughtful applications, it has named this year’s recipients: Amanda Gantz and Elizabeth Espinosa.

The scholarship includes seven days of board for horse and rider, daily lessons, housing, and coaching at a competition, redeemable in Aiken, SC or Nottingham, PA, depending on Courtney’s travel schedule. This creates the kind of support that can make a real difference for an adult amateur trying to stretch time, funds, and energy as far as they’ll go.

Amanda Gantz came to eventing in 2015 after watching the Kentucky Three-Day Event. Her story since has been a masterclass in resilience: navigating breast cancer, multiple horse setbacks, and the loss of her mother, one of her biggest supporters. In 2022, with her mom and husband’s support, she took a leap and imported a green four-year-old Connemara gelding off a video, named Meg O’Pint (“Pint”). After an injury sidelined them in 2023, Pint returned in 2024, and by 2025 the pair hit their stride at USEA events, qualified for the AECs, and earned a spot on the national leaderboard. Amanda plans to use this opportunity to keep building her partnership with Pint and has dedicated her 2026 season to her mom, watching from above every time she leaves the start box.

Elizabeth Espinosa, an Area II eventer, partners with Benediction, a 2014 Oldenburg gelding she has leased since he was four. With the support of the horse’s owner, her trainer, and barn community, Liz and Ben have grown together from first rides under saddle to completing the Novice Rider division at the AECs, plus earning USDF Bronze Medal scores at First and Second Level. Liz lives in Maryland with her husband and cat and works for the federal government. After a year of injuries for both horse and rider, her goals for the season ahead are to rebuild confidence, return to form, and potentially move up to Training Level. Training with Courtney is a meaningful step toward bringing those goals to life.

Congrats to both riders! This award is what adult amateur grit looks like, and the kind that truly deserves its own spotlight.

US Events This Weekend

Ocala Winter I (FL): [Website] [Scores]

Pine Top Intermediate HT (GA): [Website] [Scores]

Other Links & Reading

Training Tip of the Day

Tom McEwen and Lucinda Fredericks share their insights on fitness work for younger horses:

Go Eventing

A real “not touching it!” moment from Emily Hamel’s rising star, Newman, who’s likely getting some tips from a certain barnmate…

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Pine Top Farm (@pinetopeventing)

Sunday Links

By on Feb 8, 2026 1:04 am -

It’s hard to believe that in just a couple months’ time, we’ll be in the midst of spring at the Kentucky Horse Park for the start of this year’s Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event — especially given the current state of the grounds as they sit encased in this winter’s latest snowstorm. The work to prepare the cross country course begins much earlier than you might think — nearly the day after the previous year’s event finishes, truthfully. One reason for this is because the course building and designing team has to factor in variables like this time of year, when work days become fewer and farther between.

See some updates from head course builder Mick Costello from a previous work day:

And some thoughts from builder Levi Ryckewaert:

We’re eager for spring — and 5* season — to get underway in earnest, and if you’re just as excited you can start planning your trip to Kentucky here.

US Events This Weekend

Ocala Winter I (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Pine Top Intermediate HT (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Links & Reading

Training Tip of the Day

A good reminder that our body and how we carry ourselves in the saddle greatly affects our horses’ way of going:

Go Eventing

A peek at what it’s like to volunteer behind the scenes at the start box, brought to you from the hardworking crew at the Florida Horse Park this weekend. You can find volunteering opportunities near you here.

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: Pennsylvania Powerhouses

By on Feb 7, 2026 12:00 pm -

If there’s one state that consistently punches above its weight in the eventing world, it’s Pennsylvania. Home to a dense network of top professionals, premier training programs, and a show calendar that keeps horses busy from early spring through late fall, PA has become a true hub for producing and campaigning quality event horses. This week, we’re spotlighting horses currently located exclusively in Pennsylvania.

Since 2010, Eventing Nation’s classifieds site, Sport Horse Nation, has been the go-to matchmaking service for eventers searching for their next partner. With hundreds of horses for sale at any given time—from talented young prospects to seasoned campaigners with miles under their belts—there’s no shortage of options. And when those horses are based in Pennsylvania, chances are they’ve been produced in a highly competitive, professional environment.

Whether you’re looking for a young horse brought along by a program that knows the levels, a reliable partner ready to start—or restart—your season, or simply hoping to take advantage of easy access to some of the country’s best eventing resources, these Pennsylvania-based horses deliver. Solid foundations, thoughtful training, and the kind of experience that comes from living in the heart of the action.

So map out your farm visits, polish your boots, and meet these standout horses currently listed on Sport Horse Nation and located right in the Keystone State.

Have a horse to sell? List your horse today on Sport Horse Nation and connect with riders who are actively searching for their next match.

And if dressage is more your style, don’t miss the newly launched Dressage Only, featuring 100+ listings of quality dressage horses ready to dance down centerline.

HSH Persuasion

  • Year Born: 2019
  • Height: 16.2
  • Breed: Irish Sport Horse
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Novice (US)
  • 2019, Irish Sport Horse Gelding (O-Piloth x Coolmountain Anja) HSH Persuasion is a very straightforward and easy horse with the scope and potential for the upper levels. He has placed in the top 10 at Millstreet International in the 4-Year-Old championships and schooled and competed at the Novice level. He already has clean changes and a brilliant aptitude under saddle. He should excel in any equestrian discipline and is poised to be a top horse for any type of rider. Learn more…

Gentry Go For Gold

  • Year Born: 2014
  • Height: 16
  • Breed: Connemara, ISH
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Novice (US)
  • Gentry Go For Gold- 12 yr old 16 hh Connemara gelding. Imported in 2021, “Mike” has been an absolute staple in our leasing business for the last four years. He has taken juniors and adult amateurs through Novice all over the East Coast. Mike has competed through Second Level dressage and has attended major venues, most recently at USDF Regionals. He is schooling Third Level movements with a green change and was previously schooling prelim height SJ/XC before our business transitioned to a dressage focused facility. He would be an excellent candidate for someone who wants to do both eventing and dressage. Learn more…

B.E. Mountain View

  • Year Born: 2018
  • Height: 16.2
  • Breed: Irish Sport Horse
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Training
  • Safe, scopey, big bodied, comfortable and point and shoot to the jumps! “Rouge” is a beautiful 8yo 16.2 ISH chestnut gelding. He truly has it all. The scope, the presence, and in your pocket personality. Schooling 1.10m and competing at 1m. Has fox hunted in Ireland and was ridden by a junior. Beautiful uphill way of going with good basic dressage skills. He has evented through training, fox hunting, to jumper shows and is confident at ditches, banks and water. Has a great work ethic and three lovely gaits. Rouge is a sensible horse and ready to gain miles. Learn more…

Accordingly

  • Year Born: 2016
  • Height: 16.3
  • Breed: Hanoverian
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Training
  • Gorgeous on the flat, has changes, packer at the modified level, ready to go preliminarily and second level dressage scores! “Cord” is a 2016 16.2 Bay Hanoverian Gelding. He is a very special horse with an in your pocket personality. Suitable for a young rider or adult amateur to learn the ropes in any discipline. Great mover, easy to jump and a pleasure to ride. Cord has been competing at the Training/Modified Level successfully with a professional while still being ridden by his adult amateur rider who takes him Beginner Novice and does 1st/2nd level dressage on him. Learn more…

  • Year Born: 2021
  • Height: 16
  • Breed: Irish Sports Horse
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Beginner Novice
  • Gorgeous grey 2021 ISH gelding to mature 16hh+ by Clooney Silver (Harlequin du Carel) out of mare by Master Imp and with Clover Hill on dam side. Beautifully bred young horse who is a fantastic modern type with a wonderful quiet attitude. Balanced correct paces and showing great potential over fences he would be a fantastic contender for the YEH classes! He has hunted in Ireland, competed at schooling jumper shows and horse trials. Brave and willing XC, a wonderful blank canvas with a solid foundation to go on with. Green but very willing and could be produced by capable amateur/YR in a program but is a quality type for any serious competitor. Learn more…

BGS What a View

  • Year Born: 2021
  • Height: 17
  • Breed: Irish Sport Horse
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Novice (US)
  • “BGS What a View” is a stunning 2021 grey gelding by BGS Ocean View out of a Lux Z x Cruising mare. Fionn is a beautiful stamp of a horse that has all the right attributes to be a top level event horse – beautiful movement, scopey jumper and a genuine mind. His overall flash & temperament make him a horse that will move up the levels quickly and easily. Fionn is suited for an amateur or young rider looking to win or a professional looking for their next top prospect. Learn more…

Charlie

  • Year Born: 2015
  • Height: 16.3
  • Breed: Thoroughbred
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Training
  • Charlie is a big, well schooled and willing partner. Has previously competed to training level, most recently he’s been ridden and competed by a 16 yo girl. He presents a lovely picture on the flat, and is honest jumping. He can get forward from time to time, so not for a rider who likes a kick ride. He’s the same horse at a show as he is at home. Hacks out, stands for the farrier, vet etc PPE welcome. Learn more…

  • Year Born: 2019
  • Height: 16.2
  • Breed: Irish Sport Horse
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Novice (US)
  • Beautiful 7 yr old, 16.2 gelding with 5* potential. Great upper level prospect for a professional or ambitious young rider in a program. Has done lots of Novice successfully and ready to go Training. Good mover, scopey and careful jumper, lots of blood. Contact Caitlin Silliman for more information, videos, confirmation shots and passport pictures. Learn more…

Double the Legacy: A Matching Challenge for the Richard Picken Memorial Grant

By on Feb 7, 2026 9:30 am -

Meg Pellegrini was the 2025 recipient of the Richard Picken Memorial Grant. USEA/Meagan DeLisle photo.

The Richard Picken Memorial Grant was established in memory of the late Richard Picken by his loved ones to support intensive training in the show jumping phase of eventing. The grant is aimed at riders age 25 and under who are competing at the FEI CCI2* level or higher. Since its inception, the grant has begun to demonstrate its impact on recipients, prompting the Rimora Foundation to honor Picken’s legacy by sustaining the program for several more years through a $20,000 matching challenge in 2026.

Picken firmly believed that specialized show jumping training was essential to success for event riders. His methodical approach, keen attention to detail, and ability to perform under immense pressure helped his students at all levels produce clear rounds when it mattered most.

“He taught young riders with the same commitment and interest that he coached high performance riders,” said Picken’s wife, Joanie Morris. “He believed in a systematic approach to developing horses and riders and was committed to the long game. There were no shortcuts—he would not rush—and most of the time that paid off when it mattered most. It’s been more than three years since he died, and people still come up to me and say they think of him in their training, in their warm-up, or when they jump a clear round. I believe this grant continues his legacy and helps build the future of our sport.”

Picken enjoyed the training at home as much as, if not more than, the atmosphere of major competitions. Competitive to his core, he understood that a clear round under pressure rarely happened by accident. He was deeply committed to instilling the skills, focus, and preparation needed to deliver consistent results. Picken frequently drove through the night to coach riders up and down the East Coast, particularly in the lead-up to major events and championships, and he approached the 20th lesson of the day with the same energy and dedication as the first. His courses and exercises remain set in arenas across the country, reflecting the breadth of his influence through regular clinics in Texas, California, Washington, Michigan, Kentucky, and the Mid-Atlantic.

Caitlin O’Roark, a 2023 recipient of the Richard Picken Memorial Grant, shared that the support significantly improved her show jumping performance while also strengthening her mental approach in competition. O’Roark primarily used the grant funds to train with Scott Keach.

“Overall, it has had a huge positive impact on my riding in all three phases,” she said. “It has affected my riding in the competition ring, but has also expanded my skill set and improved my patience in training the many horses I encounter.”

Another 2023 recipient, Olivia Dutton, used her award to train and compete in the jumper ring with Olympian Lauren Hough.

“My horse, Sea of Clouds, and I really benefitted from that work,” Dutton said. “I would not have been able to have such good results or get so much help without the Richard Picken grant.”

USEA RevitaVet Young Rider of the Year Meg Pellegrini is the recipient of the Richard Picken Memorial Grant for the 2026 competition season. The USEA Foundation looks forward to seeing how Pellegrini will utilize this support in the year ahead.

You can help ensure this grant continues to provide critical funding to future riders by donating at www.USEAFoundation.org. The Rimora Foundation will match all donations up to $20,000 during 2026. Double your impact on eventing’s future by donating today.

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on Feb 7, 2026 12:01 am -

It’s Olympic season this month, and while we’ll have to wait a couple more years for our next turn, one of our colleagues, John Kyle, is situated over in Italy for this edition of the Winter Games! John is, unfortunately for us, not commentating himself this time around, but he is overseeing many of the operations as a part of the Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS) team. The OBS team plays a critical role in the delivery of information from the games, be it via broadcast or other media channels. You can follow along with John all throughout Milan Cortina here.

By the way, you can learn more about John, his career and thoughts on the evolution of the sport in our interview with him on The Go Eventing Podcast.

US Events This Weekend

Ocala Winter I (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Pine Top Intermediate HT (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Links & Reading

Training Tip of the Day

Three tips you can put into practice in your next ride to help your flatwork. The simplest measures can often have the largest impact.

Go Eventing

Two of the best — Toledo de Kerser and JL Dublin, partners of Tom McEwen (GBR) — out for a stroll:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Tom McEwen (@tommceweneventing)

Bruce’s Field Welcomes LiftMaster “Home” as Title Sponsor of 2026 $100,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase

By on Feb 6, 2026 12:30 pm -

The Aiken Horse Park Foundation is honored to welcome LiftMaster back “home” as the Title Sponsor of the 2026 $100,000 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field, p/b Taylor, Harris Insurance Services, returning February 27–28, 2026 in Aiken, South Carolina.

A cherished winter tradition on the national eventing calendar, the LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase offers a spectator-first take on the sport’s three phases — dressage, show jumping, and cross-country — thoughtfully condensed into a format designed to bring fans closer to the action, the horses, and the riders they admire.

“Having LiftMaster return as the title sponsor of this event continues to cement its place of visibility and importance on the eventing calendar. Not only is the GPE one of the top four biggest prizes in eventing in the States, but it is an integral part of the preparation for our team horses and riders. We have championship atmosphere and intensity in a showcase environment and the $100,000 in prize money is a key component to that world-class feel,” said Joanie Morris, COO Aiken Horse Park Foundation.

“We’re thrilled to be back as the title sponsor of the Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase” said Erich Stuckmeyer, EVP and Chief Product Officer of Chamberlain Group, the parent company of LiftMaster. “This event is particularly meaningful for LiftMaster as it has deep roots in our business – both from an access control and security standpoint, and also due to our direct connection to Bruce’s Field.”

LiftMaster’s return feels especially meaningful at Bruce’s Field, a venue rooted in vision, generosity, and legacy. The field bears the name of Bruce Duchossois, whose dream helped shape what is now one of Aiken’s most beloved gathering places. LiftMaster was the inaugural Title Sponsor of the very first $100,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase in 2019 and remained in that role through 2020 and 2021, helping lay the foundation for what has become one of Aiken’s most anticipated winter traditions. Their return this year feels less like a new sponsorship and more like a natural and welcome homecoming to an event they helped bring to life.

“We are pleased to welcome LiftMaster back to Aiken as our title sponsor. Privacy, safety, and security are essential considerations for equestrian properties, and LiftMaster gates represent the gold standard in the industry. This renewed partnership reflects a strong alignment of values and underscores the Foundation’s increasing ability to deliver meaningful brand visibility and engagement for corporate partners seeking to connect with a highly discerning equestrian audience,” said Tara Bostwick, CEO Aiken Horse Park Foundation. 

The 2026 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase begins Friday morning with dressage, followed by show jumping that afternoon. On Saturday, the fan-favorite cross-country phase unfolds across the park, where horses and riders navigate bold, technical efforts in a format that is easy to follow and electric to watch.

At Bruce’s Field, the experience is as welcoming as it is exciting. Spectators are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket, settle in for the day, and enjoy not only world-class sport but a lively Vendor Village, food and beverage offerings, and a crowd that ranges from lifelong eventing fans to first-time visitors who “just came to see what this was all about.” Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome, and the atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and distinctly Aiken.

Ticketing is designed to be simple and flexible for both day-trippers and weekend visitors. General Admission includes full weekend passes (Friday + Saturday) as well as single-day options. Children 12 and under attend free, making the Showcase an easy “bring the whole crew” outing.

For those looking for a more elevated experience, a limited number of VIP hospitality tickets are available and tend to sell quickly. Tailgating packages offer designated course-side space for groups to enjoy Saturday’s action in comfort and style. VIP and tailgating purchases close in mid-February and are not available at the gate, so advance purchase is strongly encouraged.

General Admission tickets are available online in advance, with day-of tickets potentially available at the gate (cash or check only).

While the Showcase highlights top sport, it is equally rooted in something deeper: giving back to the community that makes Bruce’s Field possible. A signature element of the weekend is Ride For Charity, which pairs elite riders with nonprofit beneficiaries and invites fans to rally behind the causes closest to their hearts. Each team is led by a prominent rider serving as Captain, competing not only for bragging rights, but for meaningful impact.

2026 Team Captains & Beneficiaries

  • Team Red — Allison Springer, Leg Up Experience
  • Team Orange — Monica Spencer, Aiken Equine Rescue
  • Team Yellow — Will Coleman, Old Barnwell USCA Caddie Scholarship
  • Team Green — Emily Hamel, Aiken County Pony Club
  • Team Blue — Phillip Dutton, Great Oak Equine Assisted Programs
  • Team Purple — Boyd Martin, Aiken Volunteer Mounted Unit

Additional details about Ride For Charity participation, fundraising, and team activities will be shared as event week approaches. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.

Media Contact
For media inquiries, interviews, sponsorship information, or event details:
Aiken Horse Park Foundation
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (803) 830-7077

About LiftMaster
LiftMaster is a leading brand of professionally installed residential garage door openers and a manufacturer of commercial door operators, residential and commercial gate operators, smart video intercoms, and smart door controllers. Driven by the access and security needs of today’s marketplace, LiftMaster’s expansive line of residential and commercial solutions is designed to fit any lifestyle or application—delivering the latest technology in safety, security, and convenience. Learn more at LiftMaster.com.

About the Aiken Horse Park Foundation
The Aiken Horse Park Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the stewardship and continued growth of Bruce’s Field in Aiken, South Carolina, supporting equestrian sport, community engagement, and charitable impact through world-class events and year-round access to the park. The MISSION of the Aiken Horse Park Foundation is to promote Aiken’s equestrian way of life and encourage the community’s civic, educational, and charitable endeavors.

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on Feb 6, 2026 12:01 am -

Julia Krajewski and Amande de b’Neville. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

One Big Thing: The 100+ Club and EquiRatings Spring Projections

If you’re like us and are itching for the season’s start, don’t worry — data has allowed us to start predicting winning trends long before they set foot in the sandbox.

EquiRatings uses their High Performance Rating metric to begin measurements of a combination’s performance quality. The average 4* HPR for a combination prior to the major 5*s in April sits at 67 — and even among the top 50 four-star performances of each early season, the average is 94. Patterns show that those who crack the 100 HPR mark at these events, however — a likelihood of 0.4% — are likely to provide major results later in the season.

So while we might not have the major events running live yet, don’t stay on snooze as the season ramps up — you may just be able to start seeing those patterns in contenders at upcoming competitions. [Read more about previous result patterns and which events to watch in the coming months here]

US Events This Weekend

Ocala Winter I (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Pine Top Intermediate HT (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Other Links and Reading

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

Boyd Martin’s recent clinic tour brought him to Stable View for a cross-country clinic on January 29th. Though not featured in this video, Stable View is home to a schooling area aptly titled the Boyd Martin/ETB Cross Country Schooling Field, which has been the go-to training grounds in Aiken for upper-level riders for seven years! Boyd oversees the schooling in the winter months, catering to riders from Training level through 4*.

And did you know — all jumps on the schooling field are for sale? Talk to the Stable View Office about purchasing a schooling jump through ETB Construction if any catch your eye.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Stable View (@stableviewaiken)

Training Tip of the Day

Defender Burghley has hosted a Friday Main Arena Masterclass with Carl Hester for years, and was joined at the last event by Olympian demo riders Tom McEwen and Richard Davison. Watch part of the masterclass here (and comment on the post for a link to the full masterclass!):

Go Eventing

Not your average dressage schooling commentary, but definitely an amusing one.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sydney Steverson (@bookipsies_)

Star-Studded Roster Beckons at $10,000 Ocala Invitational Combined Test

By on Feb 5, 2026 12:31 pm -

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS are one pair slated to compete in the $10,000 Ocala Invitational Advanced Combined Test on February 18. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

EN is gearing up to hit the road to kick off the 2026 season down in Florida on February 18, where 30 horses and riders are currently entered (with a few more anticipated) for the inaugural $10,000 Ocala Invitational Advanced Combined Test at Florida Horse Park. Organized by Chris Barnard and Justine Dutton-Barnard’s Notting Hill Stables and supported by multiple local brands, this Combined Test presents an opportunity to tune up for the season, which for many of these pairs may “start” at events like Pine Top Advanced in Georgia and the $100,000 Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce’s Field in Aiken before the March CCI4*-S season begins.

Chris and Justine, both with their own strong connections to the sport of eventing, have hosted shows in Ocala for several seasons now, but this Combined Test represents a part of their larger vision and contribution to the sport. “I’ve always wanted to do an invitational type show for eventing,” Chris said. “It’s early in the season, so that’s why I thought a Combined Test would be ideal. I really wanted to do a show that offers prize money to eventers — which is lacking in this discipline — and the hope is to increase it in the future. It’s also a week or so before the Aiken Showcase and so we thought some might use it as a prep and also to others it would give them a chance to get their horses and themselves in some atmosphere which is always good education.”

Competitors will be challenged at the Advanced level for both their dressage and show jumping tests, with Bobby Stevenson and Valerie Pride stepping in as Ground Jury judges and Chris Barnard judging and designing show jumping. There will be a minimum of $10,000 in prize monies to hand out to the winner, with more support pouring in each day.

The current list of competitors, as of February 4, is as follows:

  • Woods Baughman — Hopak de Greenbay Z

  • Zachary Brandt — Direct Advance

  • Rebecca L. Brown — Fernhill Quite Frankly

  • Jan M. Byyny — Beautiful Storm

  • Kimmy Cecere — OS Hermintage

  • Maya Clarkson — Maks Mojo C

  • William Coleman — Chin Tonic HS

  • Dana Cooke — FE Quattro

  • Jack Curtis — Luska Candy Clover

  • Bruce (Buck) Davidson Jr — Cooley Candyman

  • Gabby Dickerson — Casalto

  • Mia Farley — Phelps

  • Cornelia Roosevelt Dorr Fletcher — Daytona Beach 8

  • Rory Frangos — Monty’s Tune

  • Stephanie Goodman — Elwenda DP

  • Hannah Sue Hollberg — Hachi

  • Jennie Jarnstrom-Dennis — Flower Girl

  • Kendal Lehari — Mitchell

  • Shannon P. Lilley — Eindhoven Garette

  • Natalia Neneman — Chesterland’s Brown Sugar

  • Alex O’Neal — Creative Genius

  • Elinor MacPhail O’Neal — Carsontown Basil

  • Caroline Pamukcu — HSH Connor

  • Meg Pellegrini — Falcon Crown Z

  • Alyssa Phillips — Rockett 19

  • Monica Spencer – Artist

  • Briggs Surratt — Corture

  • Chris Ryan Talley — FE Marco Polo

  • Elisa Wallace — Lissavorra Quality

  • Sharon L. White — Claus 63

If you’re interested in attending this event, it’s free to spectate! It will take place at Florida Horse Park, located at 11008 S Hwy 475, Ocala, FL 34480. Further information and updates can be found on the Ocala Invitational Facebook page here.

Thursday News & Notes

By on Feb 5, 2026 12:01 am -

The late Sandra McDonald competing at Chatt Hills. Photo by Liz Crawley.

One Big Thing: Remembering Sandra McDonald at the Ocala Winter I HT this weekend

For anyone competing at the Florida Horse Park this weekend, local eventer Chris Talley invites all riders to pick up a ribbon in the show office in remembrance of a local eventing hero after her recent passing:

Many of you I’m sure have heard the news of the passing of Sandra McDonald. A force in the eventing community whom it was safe to say was a friend to many of us. Above that she embodied the true meaning of being a sportsman; she was always there to lend a helping hand, and had the most positive attitude and even bigger smile even on the hardest of days.

Together with Emily Holmes and The Florida Horse Park we would like to encourage Sandra’s fellow competitors to pick up a ribbon, at the office, in Sandra’s colors and cherish the spirit she brought to this sport. Lend a helping hand, offer a smile, wish someone a safe ride, and cheer as they come across the finish line. Most importantly we would like to see that ribbon in her colors being carried around the cross country courses, just as she did with her Willberry Wonder Pony on her back, and take Sandra along with you for one more ride.

Rest easy Sandra, you left a hole in this sport but I hope you’ll be smiling down not only this weekend but for every event to come ❤️💙

US Events This Weekend

Ocala Winter I (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Pine Top Intermediate HT (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Other Links and Reading

Training Tip of the Day

One of our favorite USEA Grooms Alyssa Dobrotin starts a new Daily Grooming series with these tips on coat care:

Go Eventing

La propagande poney indeed! This future horse girl watching Elisa Wallace and Riot Gear will be Coming Soon to a Horse Trials Near You within a few years.

Wednesday News & Notes

By on Feb 4, 2026 12:01 am -

 

Olivia Dutton and young mare Autumn Leaves. Photo by US Equestrian.

One Big Thing: Young Horse Masterclass at the 2026 USEA YEH Symposium

The 2026 USEA YEH Symposium returns to Ocala on Monday, February 16th, and features Olympic medalists, members of several Nation Cup Teams, a 5* Judge, and the riders behind hundreds of horses moving up the grades of eventing. This must-attend educational event offers a full day of expert-led demonstrations, in-depth discussion, and hands-on learning focused on developing the next generation of top event horses.

The symposium is open to everyone interested in learning more about the successful production of Young Event Horses and will be split into two sessions:

MORNING SESSION
Majestic Oaks Ocala, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

  • Features a panel of top industry professionals assessing the technique and ability of several young horse demonstrations.
    • Panel Members: Karen O’Connor, Debbie Adams, Caroline Pamukcu, Nathan Mitts DVM
    • Demo Riders: Lauren Nicholson, Buck Davidson Jr., Alex O’Neal, Mia Farley

EVENING SESSION: “Young Horse Masterclass”
HITS Ocala, 3:30 – 7:00 pm

  • Participants to watch several top international riders breakdown their training pathways to success for young horses, while enjoying drinks and hors d’oeuvers provided by the USEA.
    • Panel Members: Peter Gray, Lesley Grant-Law
    • Demo Riders: Olivia Dutton, Phillip Dutton, Leslie Law, Jon Holling

The Young Horse Masterclass will share these experts’ techniques, program insights, and training tips for flat work, jumping work, and the introduction to new fences for young horses of all levels and disciplines.

[Learn more about the panelists and riders here]

[Click here to register]

US Events This Weekend

Ocala Winter I (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Pine Top Intermediate HT (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]

Other Links and Reading

Training Tip of the Day

Follow along with FEI Judge Valerie Pride as she breaks down lengthening on the circle in the new 2026 USEA Training Tests.

Go Eventing

How did FEI groom Adam Short end up with his dream job? Find out here:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Eventing Podcast (@eventingpodcast)