Classic Eventing Nation

Who Jumped It Best: Hartpury’s Birketts Bunker

By on Aug 17, 2021 3:00 pm -

Who Jumped It Best?

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It’s been a real treat to return to the NAF Five Star Hartpury International Horse Trials in Gloucestershire, which made its return to the calendar last week after sitting out the 2019 season. The best bit? Getting to photograph the iconique Birketts Bunker once again. This colossal timber oxer over a sprawling ditch is one of Britain’s great ‘photo fences’ — like Burghley’s Cottesmore Leap, though, it tends to jump brilliantly, despite its bum-clenching proportions.

This year, the Bunker came at fence 16 on the CCI4*-S course. After navigating a significant amount of Hartpury’s not inconsiderable hills, horses and riders cruised downhill, readjusted, and popped an influential pair of open corners on the flat at 13 and 14. Then, they galloped onward to 15, an oxer over a much shallower ditch, before executing a hairpin turn back to this fence. After landing, they galloped on down a short stretch before reaching the second water, which featured a huge log drop in followed by two beefy tables on dry land.

Because of its primary role as a prep event for the autumn’s long-formats — ordinarily lead Burghley, but in its absence this year, an incredibly hilly Bicton 5* — Hartpury tends to provide as much of a stamina test as a CCI4*-S can do, and features big, bold fences that aren’t enormously technical. At this point in the course, riders are discovering whether their horse is quite as fit as they’d expected, and while Birketts Bunker doesn’t ever cause any issues, it can sometimes show off if the communication channels aren’t quite working as they should. You’re not likely to run into disaster if you miss here, but equally, you’ll probably feel as though you’ve gone into orbit in the back seat. It’s best to use that hairpin turn to balance and add power from behind so you can commit and attack — just don’t look down!

Now, it’s over to you, dear readers: we’ve rounded up a collection of snapshots of the Bunker from throughout the day. Have a browse through each pair’s form and then scroll down to cast your vote for the best effort over this epic hunk of timber. We’ll announce the winner on our social media channels on Tuesday, August 24. Happy voting!

Bella Innes Ker and Highway II. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Nici Wilson and Fine Fleur. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Paul Whitehead and Cooley Wingman. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Camilla Kruger and Biarritz II. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Gaspard Maksud and Cado Louvo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Amy Struthers and Hotshot GN. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Molly Faulkner and Call Me Cooley. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Harry Meade and Cavalier Crystal. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Pippa Funnell and Billy Walk On. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

William Fox-Pitt and Oratorio II. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

NAF Five Star Hartpury International Horse Trials: Website, Times, Live Scoring, Cross-Country Preview, Live-Stream, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Twitter, EN’s Instagram

Brandon McMechan Shines in Bromont CCI4-S*

By on Aug 17, 2021 12:49 pm -

Brandon McMechan (CAN) and Oscar’s Wild.
Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Brandon McMechan (CAN) riding Oscar’s Wild rose to the task this weekend at the Bromont CCI-S Horse Trials in Bromont, Quebec. Winning the CCI4*-S after adding just 4 jumping penalties in Sarah Robert’s designed show jumping course and 5.2 time over a tightly wheeled Derek Di Grazia cross country course, giving them a final score of 38.5

“We just have a great relationship” says Brandon of Oscar’s Wild, a 12-year-old thoroughbred gelding which Brandon owns with his father Glenn was sourced by fellow competitor, Kendal Lehari and her mother Gwen.

Brandon, a Toronto based chiropractor, when asked about his weekend said, “I love it here. I try to get all my friends to come for a little cottage weekend, come watch the show and so close to Montreal they can buzz over there.”

Second place in the 4* went to Australia’s Dom Schramm on the score of 45.8 and the KWPN gelding, Bolytair B, with Lindsay Traisnel (CAN) on Bacyrouge taking third place with their score of 54.8.

In the CCI3*-S, Uxbridge resident Kendal Lehari (CAN) and her own Canadian Sport Horse gelding Audacious (Junior) took top place on a score of 34.8. Finishing just ahead of fellow Canadian and Dunham, Quebec based, Colleen Loach on a score of 36.1.

When asked about her weekend Kendal said, “I love Bromont, it’s probably my favourite event.”

Ascot Corner (QC) resident Melissa Boutin took the red ribbon in the CCI2*-S division ahead of a strong field of 14 on her own Obeah Dancer GS (Colleen). Finishing on their dressage score of 24.9. A financial advisor when not riding four to six horses a day and giving lessons in her barn, Melissa appeared pleased with their results saying “It went so well, that course has a beautiful flow. It keeps you busy right up to the end. A really fun course to ride.” Continuing an already great weekend Melissa also won the Open Training with Threes are Wild on a score of 27.6, riding the thoroughbred gelding owned by Marie-Gabrielle Bronsard.

In the Open Preliminary, Kingston, Ontario’s own Selena O’Hanlon riding Ringwood Hustler and Lexington, Kentucky based Alexandra Baugh on Dogano de L’Oiseliere took first and second respectively.

A fabulous weekend by all accounts was had by both Canadian and US based competitors at the iconic venue, Bromont Olympic Equestrian Park, site of the equestrian events of the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games.

A popular discussion for U.S. visitors over the weekend was just how straight forward cross-border travel has become since the change in COVID-19 travel restrictions. US Citizens and permanent residents can now come to Canada by being vaccinated, providing COVID-19 negative results, and entering all the information in to the free ArriveCAN application or on the official website.

Dom Schramm when asked about his border experience said, “It literally took no extra time” and went on to say about the event “People were asking me are you going to Bromont? I said of course I’m going to Bromont. Bromont is the best event in North America.”

Held annually the third weekend of August in the charming village of Bromont, Quebec, the Bromont CCI-S Horse Trials is within easy driving distance of Montreal, Quebec and Burlington, Vermont. This scenic area offers great dining, shopping, entertainment, and golf options.

Information regarding the event is available on our website at https://bromontcci.com and linked to our social media. Reach the event secretary at [email protected].

Kendal Lehari (CAN) and Audacious
Photo; Cealy Tetley
Brandon McMechan (CAN) and Oscar’s Wild
Photo: Cealy Tetley
Mellisa Boutin (CAN) and Obeah Dancer GS
Photo: Cealy Tetley
Selena O’Hanlon (CAN) and Ringwood Hustler
Photo: Cealy Tetley
Melissa Boutin (CAN) and Threes are Wild
Photo: Cealy Tetley
Dominic Schramm (AUS) and Bolytair B
Photo: Cealy Tetley
Colleen Loach (CAN) and FE Golden Eye
Photo: Cealy Tetley
Joanie Morris (USA)
Photo: Cealy Tetley

Chedington Bicton Park CCI5* Entries Go Live; 37 Pairs Entered So Far

By on Aug 17, 2021 11:24 am -

Badminton winners Vanir Kamira and Piggy March. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

British and European eventers were hankering for another five-star competition to replace Badminton and Burghley, which both went by the wayside once more in 2021 with hopes to return in 2022. These abandonments left vacancies on a typically bustling calendar, prompting multiple European-based pairs to make the trek to the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event in April to get some practice over eventual Olympic designer Derek di Grazia’s tracks. But calls to make a replacement British five-star grew stronger once Burghley Horse Trials announced it would not go forward in September, and Bicton Arena has stepped up to take on the challenge. The Chedington Park Bicton Arena CCI5* will be held on the same dates originally occupied by Burghley, September 2-5.

A total of 37 entries headline the list; entries close today and go into late entry status, so this list will likely still be updated with a final number in a few days. Some of the riders listed are also vying for a spot on the forthcoming FEI European Eventing Championships and will likely have entered here as a plan B should they not make the roster for Switzerland.

Take a look at entries for Bicton below, a more complete preview of which we’ll provide once the final entry list has been confirmed.

Some notable names include Canadian rider Mike Winter with El Mundo, 2019 Badminton winners Piggy March and Vanir Kamira, Gemma Tattersall and Chilli Morning son, Chilli Knight, William Fox-Pitt and Oratorio II, 2019 Burghley winner Pippa Funnell with two rides in Majas Hope and Billy Walk On, FEI world number one Oliver Townend with MHS King Joules and Tregilder, the Price duo of Jonelle and Tim, who have entered Grappa Nera and Ringwood Sky Boy, respectively, and many more.

🎫 𝓣𝓘𝓒𝓚𝓔𝓣𝓢 𝓐𝓡𝓔 𝓞𝓝 𝓢𝓐𝓛𝓔 for the Chedington Equestrian Bicton Park 5* Horse Trials 🎫🔹 Dressage – Friday 3 September🔹…

Posted by Bicton Arena on Tuesday, August 17, 2021

Tickets have also gone on sale this afternoon and can be found here.

Stay tuned for much more from Bicton! And in other fall five-star news, entries for the inaugural Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill opened today so it’s about to be a fall frenzy here at EN!

Chedington Park Bicton CCI5*: [Website] [Entries] [Tickets]

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: Maximum Pony Power!

By on Aug 17, 2021 9:00 am -

In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN. We include the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and contact information.

Lexi Mefford and Princess. Photo by Xpress Foto.

Why drive a pontoon boat when you can zip around on a jet ski? As a 5’1″ full-grown, going-on-40-year-old woman who found her mid-life crisis sportspony on Sport Horse Nation a few years back, SHN ads for the 14.2-and-under set always catch my eye.

My own fun-sized lady, aptly named Princess, is a dream on all levels: she tackles the big jumps like a little monster and yet is so polite and proper on the ground you could take her to a fancy tea party. That is owed to the work put in by her former owner/forever co-parent, Lexi Mefford (né Funk), who loves Prin deeply and with whom I’ve kept in touch. This year, in fact, when life circumstances were keeping me from the saddle, Lexi graciously agreed to reignite their special partnership for a few months at least and longer if they wanted. I got to cheer them on at Champagne Run Horse Trials last month, where they finished 5th and looked as happy as can be to be doing what they love most again together.

Lexi Mefford and Princess. Photo by Xpress Foto.

Princess will never be for sale — she has a happy forever home with me — but I’d like to offer her story as an anecdote of a sales story gone right, a true fairytale win-win for all. There’s a place in the world for every horse, and it is SHN’s goal to be a conduit for perfect connections.

Here are three event ponies (plus one foal with super-pony breeding) recently listed on SHN. Check out all classifieds here.

Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Incredible Sport Pony Alert!

An absolute gem — Yukon Gold is an approximately 8-year-old, 13.3 hand pony who seems to rival warmblood movement and easily takes up leg! Yukon is currently schooling at training level and could easily move up to first level dressage in the near future. Although he shows great passion for dressage and seems to enjoy this most, Yukon could also excel at any career such as a low hunter/jumper pony, fox/coyote hunter, beginner novice eventer, or working equitation pony. He has competed at multiple unrated eventing and jumping competitions on the East Coast, and just completed a rated dressage show in MT. Extremely competitive and consistent dressage scores. Yukon loves water, trail rides (can go front, middle, or in the back of groups), has no fear of ditches, dogs, or other scary objects and is an overall prince. He has been introduced to cattle sorting and seemed to enjoy this as well. Yukon does think he is 17 hands, the herd leader, and is not for timid riders. Yukon could make a stellar pony club mount! Yukon is to a 5 star approved home only. 15K. No leases, no extended or overnight trials. Price will increase as he continues to advance in dressage and jumping. Located in Western Montana.

Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Grey American Sport Pony

ISO: An adventurous, fun-loving small human to take over this magical ride. But seriously, don’t let the angelic, unicorn look fool you; this pony is going places and will take you with her if you are willing. At 14.1 hh, this Appendix-Welsh cross will fancy you around the dressage ring and then turn right around and gallop you around the xc course without breaking stride. “Boo” has been competing and finishing in the ribbons at both Beginner Novice and Novice levels and is currently schooling Training and even Modified level questions in xc and 1.0m show jumping. She is for sale at no fault of her own; her rider is moving up levels with another horse and wants to ensure Boo can continue to do what she loves. This little mare shows no fear competing against the bigger horses, knows her job and has fun doing it. Boo would best be suited in a training program for she is a confident and athletic pony that requires a rider that is serious about competing. She loves to show off and loves to be challenged! Located in Plainwell, MI.

Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Gorgeous bay 2021 Dutch Warmblood colt out of full sibling to Theodore O’Connor

Looking for his person! “Raisin” is a stunning bay colt who has three super gaits with great elasticity, and a large rangy canter that should eat up the cross country course! He is a very confident foal and charms anyone who comes to meet him. He has a pedigree packed with proven sporthorse lines and should be an absolute blast to ride. He is sired by KWPN stallion Waterford, who is sired by Consul and the damsire is the stallion Farmer. Farmer is by Voltaire, all exceptional bloodlines for a jumping horse.

This colt’s dam is Louisiana Catahoula, a full sibling to the super pony Theodore O’Connor. She is 3/4 Thoroughbred, 1/8 Arab, and 1/8 Shetland and is registered with the American Warmblood Registry.

He should mature to about 15.3 hands – sire is 16.2 hands and dam is around 15 hands. His 3/4 brother is 15.3 hands at 6 years old.

This colt can be registered KWPN-NA or with the American Warmblood Registry, depending on preference of the buyer if purchased soon. He is available to be seen in beautiful rural upstate New York about 10 minutes from Cornell University. Located in the Finger Lakes wine region.

Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

SAFE & FUN LARGE PONY FOR SALE

Cocoa Puff – 13 year old 14.2 welsh cross
Cocoa is the quintessential kid’s pony or petite young rider/AA looking to have a fun and safe ride. She is a perfect Pony Club pony; in fact, she won the 18” division at a Regional PC Show Jumping Rally! Cocoa has lovely ground manners and travels like a champ; she is the same pony on and off property. She is never barn or buddy sour, and loves to hack with or without a buddy. She jumps banks, ditches, and water — no problem! She has perfect feet, she stands for the farrier, and self loads onto the trailer. For the last year and a half Cocoa has been piloted by an 11-year-old rocking around Maiden, and hasn’t had a single stop on XC. She is ready to find her perfect match and could easily continue eventing or head over to the jumper ring. Cocoa has competed up to Beginner Novice and is schooling Novice height. Cocoa Puff is loved very much so a 5* home is a must. Located in Clayton, NC.

Listings included in this article are randomly selected and confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feeds

By on Aug 17, 2021 7:28 am -

I don’t usually get myself in a tizzy about eventing opening and closing days, but then, I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a day so chock full of big ones. Entries for both the Bicton Arena CCI5* and the AECs close today, while entries are now open for the Maryland Five-Star — and we’re predicting some seriously spicy entries there. Planning to put your name down for any of the aforementioned? Get moving!

National Holiday: It’s National Black Cat Appreciation Day! Did you know that black cats in animal shelters are less likely to be adopted than their colourful counterparts? Consider opening your home — or your cozy barn — to a dusky kitty today.

Events Opening Today: Spokane Sport Horse Seventh Annual Fall H.T., The Maryland Horse Trials at Loch Moy Farm, Jump Start H.T., Sundance Farm H.T., Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T., Willow Draw Charity Show, Fleur de Leap H.T., Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill, Moqui Meadows H.T.

Events Closing Today: Course Brook Farm Fall H.T., Bucks County Horse Park H.T., Woodland Stallion Station 1 Day H.T., Silverwood Farm Fall H.T., Chattahoochee Hills H.T., Equestrians’ Institute H.T., USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final, and ATC Finals

News and Notes from Around the World:

In the aftermath of the Olympics, it’s not just the eventers who are disappointed in the new team format. It’s also been a major point of contention for the show jumpers, too, who’ve raised welfare and practicality concerns. Now, Brazil’s Rodrigo Pessoa is speaking out. [Rodrigo Pessoa on the Olympic Format: “I Hope the FEI will Listen this Time”]

New research is shedding further light on wobblers’ syndrome, and it might not be caused by what you’d expect. [Wobbly Horse: What’s Wrong with Him?]

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced an uptick in funding for British athletes ahead of the Paris Olympic cycle. They’ll now receive £232 million, distributed at various sums between all the sports. [Prime Minister announces £232m investment ahead of Paris 2024]

Spectators won’t be able to attend the Paralympics, which comes as no surprise as COVID cases continue to skyrocket in Japan. Exemptions will be made for this partaking in a school programme. [Tokyo 2020 announcement and guidelines regarding tickets following spectator capacity limit]

Listen: The Eventing Podcast’s Hartpury Review Show, which covers the thrills — and spills — of the weekend’s biggest British event.

Watch: Jon and Rick catch up with Doug Payne and Sam Watson post-Tokyo.

Enter: Planning to check out the inaugural Maryland CCI5* in October? (Of course you are!) Make your week even better by purchasing your tickets early — you could win a swish pair of Dubarries!


Monday Video: Millbrook Memories by Marion de Vogel

By on Aug 16, 2021 4:30 pm -

The woman behind the lens meets the chinchilla behind the … chaos? Photo by Abby Powell.

Take me back to Millbrook! We’re already a week out from this destination event and we’re already pining to go back. The Millbrook Horse Trials are a favorite amongst longtime competitors and new visitors alike. Between the scenic New York countryside and the traditional three-phase format, what’s not to love?

Each year, local videographer and member of the equestrian community Marion de Vogel donates her talents to the Millbrook Horse Trials and captures the essence of the event on each of the four days of competition. We loved getting to meet Marion this year, and we think she enjoyed meeting us (particularly Chinch) too!

Take a look back at the final day of competition in the first video above. And if you missed any of the previous videos, which were embedded into our daily Millbrook coverage, just scroll down to here to catch up:

#MHT2021: [Website] [Final Scores] [EN’s Coverage]

Just a Bunch of Badas* Pony Instagrams from FEI European Championships for Ponies

By on Aug 16, 2021 2:00 pm -

We’re a bit obsessed with the eventing ponies on display at this weekend’s FEI European Championships for Ponies, which were held at Strzegom in Poland and spanned dressage, eventing and show jumping.

Taken from an FEI press release:

The Eventing Championship was another thriller in which France took a strong hold from the start and never let go.

Mae Rinaldi topped the individual rankings after a brilliant dressage test for a score of 23.2 with Boston du Verdon, and she would go on to take the Individual title while also leading the French team to glorious gold.

Her team-mates Mathieu Cuomo (Celeste du Montier) and Zoe Ballot (Voltair de Lalande) were lying third and sixth after the first phase on marks of 26.4 and 28.1 respectively, so France went into cross-country day ahead of Germany in second and Ireland in third place. And the cross-country phase saw many changes to the leaderboard as the 24-fence challenge really tested rider skills from start to finish. In all there were 10 eliminations on course from a starting field of 46.

The combination fence at 11 proved particularly influential in the early stages as riders struggled to find their line to the second element. So when that news was brought back, many opted for the longer route here as the day progressed. Zoe Ballot’s tour of the track was exemplary, the addition of 4.4 time penalties still moving her up a place to fifth overnight. But compatriot Mathieu Cuomo suffered a very different fate.

Lying third with his pony, Celeste du Montier, he was still flying when coming down to the penultimate double of bush fences. But a slip on the bending line to the second element saw the little stallion unable to take off again, and the resultant 20 penalties and time may well have robbed this 14-year-old rider of his chance of an Individual medal placing.

In contrast, fourth French team-member, Valentin Quittet Eslan who was lying 35th with Winnetou as the day began, rocketed all the way up to tenth when producing a superb clear within the time of 6minutes 37seconds. The 15-year-old Dutch-bred Winnetou is a perfect example of a wonderful pony that has served many different riders over the years, in 2019 helping Team France to European silver with Lilou Ducastaing in the saddle.

So at the end of the day the French were still in the lead on 96.4 with Germany’s Ella Kreuger (Golden Grove Simon), Pita Schmid (Sietlands Catrina), Marie Hoffmann (Penny Lane WE) and May Marie Fernandez (Maruto) less than five penalty points behind. And the Irish were still still in bronze medal position when Ted O’Leary (Rockon Pedro), Caoimhe Crozier (Kildromin Banjo), Sarah Keane (Lon Mac Liomhtha) and Ben Connors (Cornafest Fred) finished with 116.3 on the board.

As the final Jumping phase began Connors and his Connemara gelding were lying in silver medal spot on their dressage score of 30.3, just 0.1 ahead of The Netherlands’ Sophie Weening and her brave and bold Hip Hop who raced around the cross-country track the previous day pulling hard all the way and clearly enjoying every moment of it. Mae Rinaldi still held the lead with her French stallion Boston du Verdon despite the addition of 5.2 cross-country time penalties, but on a score of 28.3 couldn’t afford a jumping error if she was to grab Individual gold. So when the leading trio all held firm in the Jumping arena yesterday the Individual podium places remained unchanged, and France claimed team gold on a final tally of 104.4 with Germany in silver on 114 and Ireland in bronze on 132.3.

Rinaldi was delighted with both her result and her brilliant pony. “I’m very happy with my individual victory, but also for the whole team. It’s a dream come true. Boston is a great pony, he is amazing in all three phases…and I love him!”, said the new European champion.

FEI European Championships for Ponies (Strzegom, Poland): [Website] [Results]

We couldn’t help but hit the Follow button on a ton of athletic pony Instagram accounts this weekend, so we thought we’d share a few posts with you as we know everyone loves a good pony!

Who Jumped It Best? Millbrook Intermediate Show Jumping Edition

By on Aug 16, 2021 11:30 am -

What a happy coincidence it is when a sponsor’s fence ends up being the perfect one to shoot for a Who Jumped It Best? That was the case for the Nutrena Open Intermediate divisions at the Millbrook Horse Trials. Nutrena’s fence was placed on a tight left turn off the rail and it was at the perfect angle and in the perfect light to shoot it for our favorite fun competition.

You be the judge! Scroll down and cast your vote in the poll at the bottom of this post for the combination who you think presents the best overall picture.

#MHT2021: [Website] [Final Scores] [EN’s Coverage]

Meghan O’Donoghue and Palm Crescent. Photo by Abby Powell.

Meg Kepferle and Anakin. Photo by Abby Powell.

Meg Pellegrini and RF Eloquence. Photo by Abby Powell.

Katie Lichten and Yarrow. Photo by Abby Powell.

Booli Selmayr and Urania. Photo by Abby Powell.

Andrew McConnon and Wakita 54. Photo by Abby Powell.

Weekend Winners: Bromont, Woodside, GMHA, Otter Creek, Waredaca, WindRidge + International Results

By on Aug 16, 2021 9:00 am -

Another busy summer weekend of eventing is in the books, and we’ve got an all-out international recap of winners for you to kick off your week!

This weekend’s Unofficial Low Score Award winners are Sue Goepfert and Isabeau VT, who won their Senior Beginner Novice division at Otter Creek on a final score of 21.8. This look’s to be this pair’s USEA debut and what a way to smash it! Congratulations!

The Woodside Summer Event (Woodside, Ca.): [Website] [Results]

Advanced/Intermediate: Tamie Smith and Elliot-V (46.2)
Open Intermediate: Sarah Ertl and Global Showtime (34.4)
Open Preliminary: James Alliston and Monkey (26.3)
Preliminary Rider: Barbara Slaughter and Catchy One-liner (34.5)
Jr. Training Rider: Mia Brown and Duke HW (23.0)
Modified/Training Challenge Open: Lauren LoPiccolo and MMS Amadeus (31.9)
Modified/Training Rider Challenge: Catherine Bonadio and IndiGo (32.3)
Open Training: Tamie Smith and Crafty Don (28.9)
Sr. Training Rider: Pippa Murray and Herman (31.8)
Jr. Novice Rider: Adrianna Kosmont and Blurred Lines (28.6)
Novice – Amateur: Leah Yacoub Halperin and Remember Me (26.1)
Open Novice: Tommy Greengard and Cappachina (25.9)
Sr. Novice Rider: Holly Thompson and Atta Boy Atticus (25.2)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider A: Elle Francis and Be Mine (30.3)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider B: Avery Jones and Solomon (32.3)
Open Beginner Novice: Katie Fales and Rosette (26.5)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider A: Leslie Van der Wal and Doonhill Dancer (25.8)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider B: Gina Coons and Lumber de la Nuit (27.0)
Intro A: Jaimi Martin and Marco Polo (33.1)
Intro B: Olivia Bodner and Nil Phet (30.0)

GMHA Festival of Eventing H.T. (South Woodstock, Vt.): [Website] [Results]

CCI3*-S: Anna Loschiavo and Fernhill That Guy Jack (35.2)
CCI2*-S: Daryl Kinney and Monte Carlo (39.1)
Open Intermediate: Ayden Schain and Fernhill Hole Shot (46.5)
Open Preliminary: Lila Gendal and BT Just A Rebel (43.9)
Preliminary Rider: Kate Nolfi and Wild Pioneer (39.5)
Preliminary/Training: Zinovia Baltopoulos and Crownmeroyal (44.2)
Jr. Training: Eliza Quigley and Contra (25.0)
Open Training: Katie Murphy and Joshua Tree (33.6)
Training Rider: Barbara B. Fitch and Donte (24.8)
Jr. Novice A: Ariel Belson and Rocambolesco (36.0)
Jr. Novice B: Sarah Lovallo and Watson’s Delightful (31.0)
Novice Rider A: Hanna Howell and Plosh (31.4)
Novice Rider B: Tracie Sales and Ebony (35.5)
Open Novice A: Jennifer Fitch and Henry (25.7)
Open Novice B: Andrew McConnon and Solo Canto (32.9)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Connor Pearson and ET Tylord (35.3)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Jack Brennan and Paladin (25.8)
Jr. Beginner Novice A: Emma Adams and Honey (36.6)
Jr. Beginner Novice B: Mikaela Ackerman and ICUPK’n (31.0)
Open Beginner Novice A: Lila Gendal and Will I Am (31.7)
Open Beginner Novice B: Danielle Gabree and Cantefina HPF (25.1)

Many thanks as always to Joan Davis of Flatlandsfoto for these win shots from the GMHA Festival of Eventing – and don’t forget to order your own show photos here!

Otter Creek Summer H.T. (Wheeler, Wi.): [Website] [Results]

Open Intermediate: Meaghan Marinovich Burdick and Riviera Lu (50.0)
Intermediate/Preliminary: Rebecca Hunt and Snowflake Lane (45.8)
Open Preliminary: Jana Lyle and Philena (50.9)
Jr. Training Rider: Ekka Wegerich and Falynah B (36.4)
Open Training: Brynna Jovanovich and Arthur (29.8)
Preliminary/Training: Kristin Kubsch and CMF Royal Diamond (37.3)
Sr. Training Rider: Katie Sisk and Long Legs Lenore (27.0)
Jr. Novice Rider: Ava Davis and Valentine (32.6)
Open Novice: Kristine Burgess and Marisol (27.1)
Sr. Novice Rider: Makena Layton and No More Honey WRF (34.8)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider: Lily Hamilton and Midnight Borealis (24.0)
Open Beginner Novice: Clare Walker and Danger Mouse (27.8)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider A: Sue Goepfert and Isabeau VT (21.8)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider B: Linda Pozanc and Caesar Armani (32.0)
Starter A: Mark Ward and Moonlight Clover (24.8)
Starter B: Alexis Anderson and Sharps (25.9)

Waredaca H.T. (Laytonsville, Md.): [Website] [Results]

Intermediate: Ema Klugman and RF Redfern (38.9)
Open Preliminary: Alexandra Wikstrom and Change Order (29.2)
Open Preliminary – Jackpot: Jan Byyny and Beautiful Storm (31.4)
Preliminary Rider: Mandolin Whitten and Mudville (33.9)
Modified A: Kim Severson and Arden Juju (27.4)
Modified B: Audrey Ogan and Second Amendment (26.6)
Open Modified – Jackpot: Kelly Beaver and Excel Star Pluto (40.5)
Open Training: Daniel Clasing and Et Cetera (28.6)
Open Training – Jackpot: Boyd Martin and Ad Lib (25.2)
Training Horse: Ryan Wood and Cooley Continental (28.4)
Training Rider A: Caroline Brown and Sydney (27.4)
Training Rider B: Payton Myers and Tekkenistic (30.5)
Novice Horse: Mackenzie Parks and Mr McGoey (25.4)
Novice Rider A: Nell Nicastro and Pac Man (29.5)
Novice Rider B: Cierra Miller and CV’s Jackpot (25.5)
Open Novice: Erin Murphy and Cooley Cadence (27.1)
Beginner Novice Horse: Rebecca Lee and A Proper Villain (26.5)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Leigh Wood and Dollar Mountain (25.0)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Cami Pease and Vibrant (24.8)
Open Beginner Novice: Stephen Fulton and DB Cooper (32.3)

RF Redfern just won her first intermediate. 😇Thank you Team Fern! And big thanks to Lindsay A. Hicks for helping today.HCS, USA Saddlery & Fittingsuvex equestrian USA Correct Connect Shires Equestrian North America Vitalize – Amaferm EquinePerfect Products Hyaluronex BUCKEYE Nutrition Sterling Essentials Breese Pin Band Remarkable Leather Goods Bewitched Bands Brooks Belts Frilly Fillies Horse BonnetsCannaHorse

Posted by Ema Klugman on Saturday, August 14, 2021

Windridge Farm Summer H.T. (Mooresboro, Nc.): [Website] [Results]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Kelsey Briggs and The Gentleman Pirate (69.9)
Preliminary: Lisa Borgia and Silmarillion (29.2)
Training A: Bobby Meyerhoff and EWSZ Mozart (31.9)
Training B: Marissa Griffin and Conguistador (30.5)
Novice A: Emily Cardin and Hacker (29.0)
Novice B: Nancy Z. Wilson and Lagerfeld (27.4)
Novice C: Amy Cobb and Swift Journey (32.9)
Beginner Novice A: Lisa Borgia and Sink the Bismarck (36.1)
Beginner Novice B: Megan Lapkoff and Slingshot (35.0)
Beginner Novice C: Jessica Wymbs and Weight of the World (36.9)
Introductory: Eliza Klaitman and Excel Star Silver Lining (33.8)
Starter A: Cindy McNeely and Jonah (35.0)
Starter B: Alexandra Mottershead and Bentley (37.2)

Major International Events:

NAF Five Star Hartpury International H.T. (Glocestershire, United Kingdom): [Website] [Results] [EN’s Coverage]

CCI4*-S: Nicola Wilson and JL Dublin (29.1) [Full Report]
CCI3*-L: Gubby Leach and Royal Harvest (31.3)
CCI2*-L: Ibble Watson and Candito (27.7)

FEI European Championships for Ponies (Strzegom, Poland): [Website] [Results]

Eventing:
Gold: Mae Rinaldi (FRA) and Boston du Verdon (28.4)
Silver: Ben Connors (IRL) and Cornafest Fred (30.3)
Bronze: Sophie Weening (NED) and Hip Hop (30.4)

Bromont Horse Trials (Montreal, Quebec): [Website] [Results]

CCI4*-S: Brandon McMechan and Oscar’s Wild (38.5)
CCI3*-S: Kendal Lehari and Audacious (34.8)
CC2*-S: Melissa Boutin and Obeah Dancer GS (24.9)
Open Preliminary: Selena O’Hanlon and Ringwood Hustler (29.0)
Open Training: Melissa Boutin and Threes are Wild (27.6)

Le Grand Complet FEI Nations Cup – Haras Du Pin (Le Pin-au-Haras, France): [Website] [Results]

CCIO4*-S
Team: France (99.5)
Individual: Gwendolen Fer and Traumprinz (27.3)
CCI3*-S: Stephane Landois and Chaman Dumontceau (26.3)
CCI3*-L: Rodolphe Scherer and Song Du Magay (30.6)
CCI2*-S: Mathieu Chombart and Big Boss Melo (27.3)
CCI2*-L: Josephine Schnaufer-Völkel and Cinnamon Red (28.0)

Monday News & Notes from FutureTrack

By on Aug 16, 2021 3:37 am -

Ava, Holly, and Morris celebrate a great first event. Photo via Holly Jacks-Smither’s Facebook.

We were all so bummed for Canada’s Holly Jacks-Smither when she had to make the tough — but totally right — decision to retire her best friend, More Inspiration, from upper-level eventing after the discovery of a heart murmur at Kentucky this spring. But the plucky Thoroughbred isn’t in the equine equivalent of a nursing home — instead, he’s getting to enjoy life as a lower-level schoolmaster. He and working student  Ava Lema-Nilsson made their debut together over the weekend, tackling the Junior Novice division at Ontario’s Grandview Farm, where they finished second.

“I have never been one to enjoy sitting on the sidelines but the joy I felt watching them was overwhelming,” posted Holly on her Facebook page. “Sometimes things just work out how they should.”

I’m not crying, you’re crying.

National Holiday: It’s National Rollercoaster Day! No thanks.

US Weekend Action:

The Woodside Summer Event (Woodside, Ca.): [Website] [Results]

GMHA Festival of Eventing H.T. (South Woodstock, Vt.): [Website] [Results]

Otter Creek Summer H.T. (Wheeler, Wi.): [Website] [Results]

Waredaca H.T. (Laytonsville, Md.): [Website] [Results]

Windridge Farm Summer H.T. (Mooresboro, Nc.): [Website] [Results]

UK Weekend Action:

NAF Five Star Hartpury International: [Website] [Results] [EN’s Coverage]

Aston-le-Walls (4): [Results]

Bold Heath: [Results]

Hopetoun (2): [Results]

 

Global Eventing Roundup:

France’s Mae Rinaldi and Boston du Verdon are the new Pony European Champions after leading from pillar to post and finishing on a 28.4 — the only sub-3o finishing score in the whole competition. Ireland’s Ben Connors and Cornafest Fred took the silver medal, climbing from 11th after dressage, while the Netherlands’ Sophie Weening and Hip Hop took bronze. The French also triumphed in the team standings, followed by Germany in silver and Ireland — whose riders rode for late compatriot Tiggy Hancock — in bronze. These plucky pony riders, who competed over a CCI2*-L track at Poland’s Strzegom, get the ball rolling on this year’s European Championship season.

FEI European Championships for Ponies (Strzegom, Poland): [Website] [Results]

France has had a great weekend all round; they also took top honours in their home Nations Cup leg at Haras du Pin, where a young Dutch team finished second and the Swedes finished third. France’s Gwendolen Fer won the class with Traumprinz (and finished fourth with her 2017 Pau CCI5* winner Romantic Love), while Tim Price’s 2019 Seven-Year-Old World Champion Happy Boy finished second in his four-star debut. Third place went to Germany’s Josephine Schnaufer-Völkel and Pasadena 217.

Le Grand Complet FEI Nations Cup – Haras Du Pin (Le Pin-au-Haras, France): [Website] [Results]

Finally, a small but determined four-star field of four competitors battled it out at Bromont, with Canada’s Brandon McMechan claiming victory on his Thoroughbred Oscar’s Wild after leading the dressage but moving into second going into the cross-country finale after knocking a rail. US-based Aussie Dom Schramm and Bolytair B finished second and even more impressively, did the whole thing on their own. We’re petitioning the FEI to give you a groom’s award, Dom!

Bromont Horse Trials (Montreal, Quebec): [Website] [Results]

Your Monday Reading List:

Ian Stark may be one of the all-time legends of our sport, but that doesn’t mean he’s forgotten his roots. Earlier this month, and fresh off his commentary gig for the Olympics, he spent a long day in the pouring rain acting as stand-in coach for the Duke of Buccleach Pony Club’s grassroots showjumping team. Even better? They finished second under his expert tutelage. [From Tokyo commentary to Pony Club champs: eventing legend steps in as grassroots team coach]

In need of a healthy dose of ‘awwww‘ to start your week? This kiddo who couldn’t quite stay awake to the end of a lead-line class is a real mood. [Behind the Photo: Asleep at the Wheel]

We love it when local newspapers get excited about their nearby eventers. We love it even more when they get giddy over the horses. In this case, it’s consummate horse-crush Tsetserleg. You get ’em, Sexy Legs. [Comal County equine athlete shines at Tokyo Olympics]

Ever wished your horse could talk? So, too, does Olympic gold medallist Oliver Townend. I’m currently on the fence, just out of sheer trepidation that my horse would start requesting Ed Sheeran-heavy schooling playlists. [Oliver Townend: Olympic gold medallist hopes Team GB’s success will inspire young riders]

And finally, Peder Fredricson — former Olympic eventer, now gold medalist showjumper — is one of the great heroes of the Games. Dive into his musings on good horsemanship and take his horse-first ideals into the week with you. [Peder Fredricson on horsemanship: “the horse is your responsibility, so you need to get involved and be engaged”]

The FutureTrack Follow:

The perfect balm for the soul after a busy weekend of eventing? A bit of wanderlust and jumping, courtesy of the Longines Global Champions Tour. I’ve been obsessing over the London leg as captured through EquiSportif’s lens, and I can’t wait to see more of her work.

Morning Viewing:

Rewatch all the Pony Euros cross-country action (and wish you were a gutsy teenager again):