Classic Eventing Nation

Preview Alec Lochore’s CCI4*-L Cross Country at The Event at TerraNova

By on Nov 15, 2024 1:00 pm -

We’re getting ready to watch some exciting cross country on Saturday in Florida as our final major event of the season continues at TerraNova in Myakka City. Alec Lochore is the cross country designer, having taken over from former designer Capt. Mark Phillips at the outset of this season. You can read more about Alec’s goals for this property and his design philosophy, which centers around providing a good preparation path for horses and riders, in our interview with him here.

The B&D Builders CCI4*-L is the headlining divisions this weekend, and the cross country course for this division is set at an optimum time of 10:33, with 25 numbered obstacles and 42 total jumping efforts. While the TerraNova property is not blessed with a ton of natural terrain, the hardworking crew here has gotten creative to include as much terrain change as possible, including the use of a new “Mount Myakka” drop complex set at the far corner of the course at fence 18.

The new “Mount Myakka” hill brings some new terrain change to the grounds at TerraNova. Photo via CrossCountryApp.

The track will also take competitors through the main, Lakeside arena for the first time this year as well, with an ABC combination of angled brushes creating an exciting showing for those in attendance under the Pavillon.

Mia Farley, who won the dressage in this division on Friday with Karen O’Connor’s Invictus on a score of 27.9, said she chose this event for this 8-year-old for its more forgiving terrain, given where he is in his career. “We thought it would be a good goal to run the four-Long here at the end of his eight-year-old year,” Mia said. “I was most comfortable with TerraNova because I know the terrain is a little more forgiving. That being said, I do think the flat ground makes it pretty hard to have rideability, actually.”

It is true – we see chatter often about the world’s statistically flatter courses at the 4* and 5* level, and while it’s easy to immediately think of “softer” when you think of flatter going, Mia brings up a good point in that many times these horses almost need terrain to help back them off and slow them down. To aid with this, Alec and his team have gotten creative, creating turns into questions that compel the competitors to rate their horses accordingly; though, of course a horse that tends to be more on the muscle may still struggle with this, especially earlier on in the course.

“I do think the time will be hard,” Mia said, again alluding to the idea that the flatter terrain may not allow some horses to catch the time as they work on rideability. “I’m personally impressed with the course because they have a lot of gallop stretches but then a lot of turning back to the combination so the turns will help — but you’ve got to slow down to make the turn. They have the coffin [at fence 6] that should, I would hope, slow people down. It’s really steep coming in; it’s so steep that they’ve just put a frangible pin at the A and C element because I think the question is really kind of the ‘cliff’ down to the ditch.”

Mia also noted the Corner, Gate, Corner question at 8ABC as a unique element on the course, involving a left-handed corner, up a mound to an innocuous-looking pinned vertical, then down a turn to a right-handed corner.

We’ll also see riders bouncing into the water at the first water question, at 11ABCD:

Photo via CrossCountryApp.

Mia’s thoughts are that the time might be harder to get up on in the first third of the course, with more turns and loops to complete at the outset before getting to more open galloping in the the middle of the course.

You can view the full course embedded below, and you can also view the other courses across levels on CrossCountryApp here.

Cross country for the B&D Builders CCI4*-L begins on Saturday, November 16 at 11:45 a.m. ET, following the CCI3*-L cross country which will lead off the day starting at 9:40 a.m. You can view the full schedule here. You’ll be able to view the free live feed from cross country all day at this link.

The Event at TerraNova (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Volunteer]

Meet the 2024 FEI Best Groom: Bettina Cardinael

By on Nov 15, 2024 9:30 am -

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

A round of applause for Bettina Cardinael (FRA), who was named the Cavalor FEI Best Groom at the FEI Awards this week! This prestigious award celebrates the hard work of equestrian #supergrooms — those dedicated, behind-the-scenes heroes without whom the sport wouldn’t be possible. Bettina’s recognition comes after an incredible year as groom to Belgian Olympian Lara De Liedekerke Meier, with career highlights including a CCI5* win at Luhmühlen and a 13th-place finish at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Bettina spoke of her special bond with one of Lara’s top horses, Origi, noting the daily routines and small habits she builds at home to keep him calm and confident on the road. “I love working with Lara; she is hardworking, human, and kind to her horses,” Bettina shared, adding that she’s thrilled to have played a part in the team’s success and to receive this honor from Cavalor. A well-deserved spotlight on one of eventing’s unsung stars!

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on Nov 15, 2024 12:01 am -

Ireland’s Jennifer Kuehle and Sammy Davis Junior won the Indoor Derby at Stuttgart German Masters.

Irish riders Jennifer Kuehnle and Cathal Daniels took center stage at the Stuttgart German Masters earlier this week, edging out local favorite and Olympic champion Michael Jung in the thrilling Indoor Derby. Jennifer claimed victory aboard Sammy Davis Junior with a fault-free round in 35.63 seconds, narrowly beating her countryman Cathal Daniels, who led for much of the competition on his seasoned mare, Rioghan Rua. Michael Jung finished in third, just three-hundredths of a second behind Daniels, after a three-second penalty pushed him off the top spot. It was an exciting Irish one-two that left fans in awe — and you can watch Jennifer’s winning round below:

U.S. Weekend Preview

The Event at TerraNova (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Volunteer]

Ram Tap Classic Three-Day & H.T. (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Full Moon Farm Fall H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

The British Columbia Eventing Association (BCEA) is running their annual online auction, and bidding ends soon! The money raised will help provide educational/clinic opportunities supporting all of their members. Start bidding now until November 16! Featured items include: 2025 Rebecca Farms and Galway Entry Fees; a 2025 Cat Skiing Experience at Mustang Powder; lessons from Holly Jacks, Dana Cooke, TIK Maynard, Virtual critique from Sonya Crampton; Redingote, Hit Air, Starbucks, and Tim Hortons gift certificates, and so much more! Click here to start bidding. All prices are in Canadian dollars.

The FEI has introduced a new standardized rule for noseband tightness across disciplines, aiming to enhance horse welfare in competition. This policy sets consistent measurement guidelines to ensure that nosebands are fitted comfortably, addressing concerns over restrictive tack. The change reflects the FEI’s commitment to animal welfare, emphasizing that comfort and performance go hand in hand. Check out The Chronicle of the Horse for more on this important update.

In April 2024, the International Grooms Association (IGA) and the FEI signed the Grooms’ Charter, a commitment to uphold the professionalism and status of grooms in FEI sports. To ensure the Charter’s principles are realized, the IGA has developed an Action Plan, approved by all Charter signatories, outlining initiatives to improve working conditions and recognize grooms’ essential contributions to the sport. IGA Executive Director Lucy Katan emphasized the importance of this plan in fostering positive employment practices and celebrating grooms as vital members of the equestrian community. Read more on this Action Plan here.

The USEF Eventing Watch List is a safety initiative aimed at identifying and addressing potentially dangerous riding behaviors in eventing competitions. Established in 2008, the program allows officials to monitor riders who exhibit concerning performances that may not be reflected in their competition records. By placing such riders on the Watch List, the USEF can provide targeted guidance and interventions to promote safer riding practices and enhance overall safety in the sport. How does this work? Check out this full breakdown here.

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

Have you put Stable View on your list of places to visit yet? If not, you absolutely should! This community-focused haven for horses and humans puts on a bustling calendar of shows across disciplines each year and also plays host to some more human-focused events such as races (if you’re into that sort of thing) and costume contests. Need more reason to visit? Check out our article on why you absolutely must make Stable View a place you can’t miss here.

Video Break

Meet Elisa Wallace’s newest mustang, Denali!

Isabelle Bosley and Paper Doll Take the Lead at The Event at TerraNova CCI3*-L; Nicholson Takes Early Lead in CCI4*-L

By on Nov 14, 2024 5:09 pm -

Isabelle Bosley and Paper Doll. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Competition is underway at The Event at TerraNova, with the first day of dressage complete. Isabelle Bosley, 27 of Monkton, Maryland took the lead in The Estates at TerraNova & Laughlin Tanner Group at Premier Sotheby’s International Realty CCI3*-L riding Paper Doll, a 12-year-old American Hanoverian mare (Paparazzo 3 x Datina) owned by Karen Martin, who is also her breeder. Bosley has been riding the mare for six years.

Bosley said, “She’s a super fun mare to ride. She really took to eventing and we get along really well. This year our goal was to get to a 3-Long in the fall.”

The competitive division saw 19 horses head down the centerline; Bosley’s test with the elegant bay mare was consistent, forward and accurate, resulting in a score of 27.8 for first place ahead of Lucia Strini and her handsome 12-year-old gray Dutch gelding DHI Kevin G, owned by Plain Dealing Farm, with a score of 29.1. Gireg Le Coz, representing France, rounds out the top three riding Hissoa des Bois, a 12-year-old Selle Francais gelding owned by Jean Van Gysel, just a tenth of a point behind Strini on a score of 29.2.

Lucia Strini and DHI Kevin G. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

While it was a sunny and mild day in Myakka City, located East of Sarasota, a strong breeze kept a lot of horses on their toes. Some of the riders had to contend with horses that looked more ready to head out on the cross-country course, located just across an access road from the dressage arena, than to settle in for a relaxed dressage test. The numerous flags surrounding the arena flapping in the wind added to the electric atmosphere.

“She is always a total competitor and gives her best at every event,” said Bosley of Paper Doll. “It’s just a matter of getting her stronger and she’s finally getting to that point and able to get some better marks. I’m really excited with how she went for me today; I knew she’d try her hardest and I just wanted to be able to ride her the best I could. She loves to show off, she loves a crowd, so the bigger atmosphere really suits her because she really lights up and gives a hundred and ten percent. She didn’t put a foot wrong, and did the best test she could do today.”

Bosley also leads the CCI2*-L riding Conner, a seven-year-old Oldenburg gelding who is also owned by Karen Martin, on a score of 22.3. “He’s a super exciting up and coming horse; he’s still very baby, and with him I was definitely worried about the atmosphere, but I’m really proud of him because he took it all in and kind of swallowed his nerves when he went in the ring and was really with me the whole test, he was just perfect.”

French Olympian Gireg le Coz joins us in the U.S., riding Jean van Gysel’s Hissoa des Bois in the CCi3*-L. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

A Maryland native whose parents are both involved in horse racing, Bosley spent ten years working for international event rider Lillian Heard in Cochranville, PA. This past June she began working for Phillip Dutton in nearby West Grove, PA.

“I had been taking some lessons with Phillip before moving over to work for him and he’s been a massive help,” she said. “I give him some credit for my test today, for helping me prep both of my horses. Lillian and I are still really close – she’s almost like a mom to me. I started working for her when I was 17, and while I felt like it was time to get a change and get a different atmosphere, I love that area and it’s home for me. I’m close friends with Phillip’s daughter Olivia as well and we’re both trying to climb up the levels and figure it out together.”

Lauren Nicholson and Larcot Z. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

The B&D Builders CCI4*-L began today with eight out of seventeen horses performing their dressage tests. Lauren Nicholson took the lead riding Jacqueline Mars’ nine-year-old Zangersheide gelding Larcot Z on a score of 30.4. Katie Malensek (CAN) riding her 10-year-old Oldenburg gelding Landjaeger are second (31.7) followed by Sophia Middlebrook riding Christa Schmidt’s 10-year-old Warmblood gelding Prontissimo (32.9).

The CCI4*-L dressage will continue tomorrow; the Insurance Offices of America CCI4*-S division, which boasts nine entries and is a qualifier for the $200,000 US Equestrian Open of Eventing Finals at Morven Park next October, will do both dressage and show jumping tomorrow. All divisions go cross-country on Saturday.

The Event at TerraNova (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Volunteer]

Where Are They Now: Chico’s Man VDF Thrives in a New Chapter

By on Nov 14, 2024 12:30 pm -

Lexi Scovil and Chico’s Man VDF Z. Photo by Shelby Allen.

When Leslie Law, U.S. Development and Emerging Coach, tells you this is the horse for you, you listen.

Lexi Scovil did just that when Law found Chico’s Man VDF Z on a trip to Europe in 2017.

“I was working for Leslie at the time, and I had just sold my previous three-star horse,” she said. “He found Sprout [who] didn’t work for his other client, but he said, I think this is the horse for you. So I actually never even tried him. I bought him off the videos and Leslie’s recommendation.”

It wasn’t a match made in heaven from the get-go but Lexi found that it was absolutely the horse for her. She and Sprout formed a true partnership as they worked out each other’s edges.

“When push came to shove, he was always there for me. He’d give it a try if he could [but] if I put him in a position that was wrong, he’d say, nope, let’s not do that. Sometimes a horse that is not jumping through fire is actually what you need to give you confidence. He [was] going to take care of me. He’ll jump if it’s the right place and he’s not gonna jump if he thinks [that’s] gonna get us in trouble.”

Over the next five years, Lexi and Sprout worked their way up the levels all the way to the top where they completed the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event in 2022 with one stop on the cross country and some time added to a rail and time in the show jumping.

Lexi Scovil and Chico’s Man VDF Z. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“To me, it was hugely exciting just to start. So, I put absolutely no pressure on the result. I didn’t care if he had a few stops or if he didn’t make the time. I think that it went so well because we both were going in to try to have a good jump around.”

After stepping back to do some lower levels to get the confidence going again after Kentucky, she aimed their partnership at the Maryland 5* in 2023. But from the first combination on course, she felt Sprout’s heart wasn’t in it. About halfway around the course, as he got more and more backed off by the speed, the questions, and the experience, she put her hand up to retire.

“It’s not fair to him to ask him to do something he’s not enjoying. He’s a very kind, genuine horse. It was at the point that I could run around Intermediate with one hand behind my back, eyes closed. We knew each other so well. Every time he went out of the start box at Intermediate, he was having a blast. But every time I went to be competitive at a four star, he was like, oh, I don’t know, this isn’t as much fun.”

Lexi ultimately came to the conclusion that Sprout didn’t share her goals for elite level eventing and finding him a rider more aligned with his strengths would be the best way to move forward.

Out to dinner with good friend Sara Kelson, head groom for 5* eventer and trainer Sara Kozumplik, she mentioned she was looking for a lease situation for Sprout.

“[Sara Kelson] sent a couple texts, and all of a sudden, Sara Kozumplik and Kelsey Seidel were at my door.”

Kelsey, a 2023-2024 USEA EA21 National Camp selected athlete, was looking for an upper level mount to teach her the ropes as her own mounts either rehabbed from surgery or learned the levels along with her.

“I actually was stabled across from Lexi at the [2024] spring Tryon FEI,” Kelsey commented. “I was picking her brain about [going overseas] and jokingly had been like, well, if you ever decide that Sprout doesn’t want to do this, I love him.”

When Sara Kelson texted about Lexi looking for Sprout’s new rider, Kelsey couldn’t have been more ready.

“We flew down to Ocala that next week and drove straight from the airport to the farm in riding clothes and everything. I hopped on and jumped him around a few fences. There’s a couple really fun videos of me where I’m just laughing and smiling the whole time, because I was just having the time of my life.”

It was pretty clear to everyone watching that Sprout and Kelsey were going to get on very well.

Kelsey Seidel and “Sprout” pick up a win in the U25 CCI1* at Maryland earlier this summer. Photo by Sara Kozumplik.

“You always have a little bit of nerves because he’s been my horse for seven years at that point, and I had done almost all of the riding on him. Very rarely did anybody else get on him,” Lexi recalled of that first ride. “Sara [Kozumplik] knew the horse a bit and I know her a little bit. She’s seen him go around for a few years and she thought it would be a good horse for Kelsey. They clicked from the beginning. Obviously there’s a little bit of a learning curve on both Sprout and Kelsey end’s, learning a different partner. But as soon as she jumped a couple jumps, I knew it was just right.”

Kelsey stepped back to Training level when Sprout first joined her. Lexi and Sara Kozumplik both stressed to her not to be hard on herself as she and Sprout learned each other’s ins and outs.

“I remember getting back from going back to my trailer [after the first] cross country, and Sara asked how was it? What is he like on course? I was like, if that’s how cross country is supposed to feel like, I’ve been doing it wrong, because that was the most fun I’ve ever had.”

Not everything went according to plan though. Moving up through the levels, Kelsey and Sprout parted ways at their first Prelim together.

“It was literally just a silly mistake trying to ride him like he was my other horse, and he reminded me that he’s, in fact, not. He rewards correct riding. It’s really forced me to think positively in all phases,” she laughingly recalled.

A win at the CCI1*-S and a confident Prelim round later, the pair proceeded to win their first CCI2*-S together at Bouckaert International in October and at the time of writing, are aimed at their first CCI2*-L at TerraNova.

Enjoying the spoils of success!

“It’s really been rewarding to see him go out and do exactly what I knew he would, which is to give her confidence and be pretty competitive at the same time,” Lexi remarked. “It’s so great to watch videos of the two of them together with his ears glued forward, and he’s looking like he’s having a great time.”

For Kelsey, the future is exciting. “We got him with the goal of CCI3* Young Riders next year. Of course, horses, not riders, move their timeline, but to have a win at the one star and now the two star level within the first six months of riding him feels like we’re moving in the correct direction.”

The word Bromont has even been thrown around a couple of times between Kelsey and Sara. “That’s a big track and a big ask, but it would be very exciting!” she said.

When asked how she feels about the decision to let Sprout out to a new rider, Lexi said: “It was a very easy decision for me to make, mostly because the horse was going to an excellent program. Everybody asks me if I’ve been sad to have him gone. Quite literally, in the five months he’s been gone, I think I’ve felt regret or sadness for maybe a minute total. I’m so proud of him and so happy for him. I’ve got all these people looking out for him, for me, and I know he is loved, appreciated, and cared for. That just makes it an easy decision. I’ve not second guessed it once. I know it’s the perfect place for him to be.”

Phillip Dutton Returns to Challenge the US Equestrian Open Leaderboard at TerraNova

By on Nov 14, 2024 9:00 am -

The US Equestrian Open Series returns this weekend at TerraNova in Myakka City, FL, where top eventers will battle for crucial series points in the third and final qualifier of the year.

The competition has already delivered plenty of drama across its first two legs, with US compatriots Sara Kozumplik and Emily Mastervich Beshear currently tied atop the series leaderboard at 40 points each. Beshear claimed victory in the series opener at Morven Park with Rio de Janeiro, and Kozumplik’s took the top spot at Bouckaert International with Rock Phantom.

Closely behind the co-leaders are Ema Klugman and in-form Christina Henriksen, both sitting in 3rd place with 35 points after strong outings at the previous qualifiers. Arden Wildasin and Janelle Fleming round out the top 5 on 30 points each.

TerraNova’s Strong Field Led by Dutton’s Duo

Phillip Dutton and Quasi Cool. Photo by Shelby Allen.

We are already seeing the impact of the series on the rider’s planning – Kozumplik confirmed she would return with Rocky to TerraNova, despite this competition not being in their original schedule. EquiRatings’ analysts expect it is going to take a season points total of 200+ for series prizemoney and the benefit of these early points proved a key part in her decision.

Much like at Bouckaert, if she is going to take the points, she is going to face a big challenge from Olympic veteran Phillip Dutton. In the last leg, Phillip led going into the final phase before an unfortunate elimination on cross-country due to a missed jump. He has two horses entered this time. 13 year old Quasi Cool – who started the CCI5* at Kentucky this year (33.8 dressage) and who has CCI4* short and long wins to his name and Azure – a horse that came from Ireland’s Esib Power and who also has CCI5* experience (15th place finish at Kentucky this year) and CCI4*L win (Bromont 2023).

Just like last time out, Pre-competition predictions make him favourite for the win. Quasi Cool, who leads the prediction centre with a 34% chance of victory and Azure, carrying 27% win chance. He would collect points for both horses and with a string that also contains Jewelent, Possante and Denim all at this level, he is one of the riders best equipped to challenge the overall series – but he can’t let opportunities like this one slip by. He might well lead the series after this weekend and he will aim to stay there if he does.

The rider that can stop him is Sara Kozumplik. She has 40 points on the board already and a win here would guarantee her top-spot at the turn of the year. The in-form Rock Phantom enters with 23% win chance. Expect them to start around the 30 mark, good chance of a clear in the show jumping and then it will come down to a time test.

The Challengers

Sweden’s Jennie Jarnstrom, who currently sits 11th in the series standings with 15 points after a solid sixth-place finish at Bouckaert International, brings two horses to TerraNova – Flower Girl, who sits with a 5% win chance and a 25% chance of a podium finish, as well as Splash Dance rated with a 3% win chance and 19% podium chance. If she can land points with both she will likely sit in Series top 5 after the weekend.

Hayden Wathen (USA) and Contestor enter the event with a 5% win chance despite having never competed at the level before. They had a good run and a podium finish at Tryon in September at CCI3*-S level. Another combination to watch is Andrew Robin Walker and SBT Barolo, who are returning to this level of the sport after a season primarily at 3* level after some time off. This pair have top 10 finishes at CCI4*S and CCI4*L level before that break so this weekend is a milestone comeback regardless of the result. EquiRatings make them a 19% podium chance. Rounding out the field are strong combinations including Briggs Surratt and Corture, Matthew Ulmer aboard Wellview Mister Lux, and Chris Newton riding Noble Discovery – all proven performers capable of breaking into the points.

Series Implications and Future Impact

This qualifier holds particular significance as athletes begin planning their 2025 campaigns. With the series culminating at Morven Park in October 2025, the results at TerraNova will influence how competitors will structure their upcoming season’s schedule.

“The introduction of this series has already begun reshaping how top riders approach their competition calendar” said Annie Bishop. “We’re seeing strategic decisions being made specifically around these qualifiers, which is exactly what we hoped would happen.”

We will be tuning in to follow live scores in the class as they unfold.

Looking Ahead

The series format, rewarding both participation and performance across multiple qualifiers, has already demonstrated its ability to attract top talent and create compelling narratives throughout the season. It has provided an incredible platform for new competitors to emerge and make their mark. We’ve already seen an exciting array of new talent showcasing their skills and potential in this dynamic new competition.

Follow all the action as it unfolds at TerraNova 4*- S through our live results and leaderboard. For deeper insights into this competitive field check out our comprehensive fan guide.

The Event at TerraNova (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Volunteer]

Thursday News & Notes from TerraNova

By on Nov 14, 2024 12:01 am -

Photo courtesy of Flatlandsfoto/Joan Davis.

Have questions about upcoming rule changes or need a refresher on the rules currently in place? USEA Area 2 is hosting a rules webinar with Eileen Pritchard-Bryan on 11/18 with all proceeds benefitting hurricane relief efforts!

Over the course of the last couple of weeks, we’ve been inundated by horrific images of the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Horse people all share a common bond, and that sense of community extends beyond Area 2. In light of this, Eileen Pritchard-Bryan has generously offered to partner with us on a USEF/USEA & FEI Eventing rules refresher webinar as a fundraiser for those affected by the recent hurricanes.

Eileen is an FEI Eventing Steward, Level 4, FEI Eventing Judge, USEF Eventing Technical Delegate and Judge, as well as a USEA Young Event Horse Judge. Eileen was an Assistant Steward in 2010, 2014, and 2018 at the World Equestrian Games (WEG) and the FEI Eventing Chief Steward at the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru. In addition to the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, Eileen has been the Chief Steward for the Maryland 5* at Fair Hill, Bromont Three Day Event CCI, Jersey Fresh Three Day Event and CCI, Plantation International CCI, and Carolina International, among others.

· When: Monday, November 18, 2024 at 7:30pm
· Where: Zoom
· Cost: Donate $20 or more to one of three non-profit organizations- Fleet of Angels, the Humane Society of the United States, or United Way of North Carolina
· Details: Please send a screenshot of your donation confirmation or forward your donation receipt to [email protected]

o To make sure your email doesn’t get lost in the inbox, please title it “Area 2 Hurricane Relief Fundraiser”
o Once donation confirmation is received, you will receive a link to the Zoom webinar
o Please include in your email any questions you’d like Eileen to consider in her presentation

This webinar is open to all!

U.S. Weekend Preview

The Event at TerraNova (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Volunteer]

Ram Tap Classic Three-Day & H.T. (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Full Moon Farm Fall H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

You won’t want to miss the latest episode of the EquiRatings eventing podcast, which this week features the story of Laura Collett’s Horse of a Lifetime, London 52. Hear this candid interview with Laura and the horse that’s fulfilled her dreams and then some here.

For crisis workers Ali Martinez and Kylie Stangle, the barn offers more than just a place to ride—it’s a sanctuary. In the USEA’s latest feature, these dedicated professionals share how spending time with horses provides them with peace, grounding, and balance amid their challenging work. Their story highlights the powerful impact of equestrian life as a source of healing and resilience. Read the full article for a touching look at how horses offer refuge and renewal.

Irish Sport Horses continue to shine in U.S. CCI competitions, claiming 45% of the top 10 spots across recent events. Known for their versatility and athleticism, these Irish-bred horses are making a strong mark on the U.S. eventing scene. Leading sires include OBOS Quality 004, with four top-performing offspring, and Sligo Candy Boy, contributing three. This success also highlights the impact of Traditional Irish Horses (TIH), with one TIH leading the ranks. Check out the full article on Horse Sport Ireland for more on these outstanding Irish contenders.

British Olympic medalist Ros Canter is coming to the U.S. for a clinic! Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from the world #3 rider, January 10-12 at Willow Draw in Weatherford, TX. More information can be found here.

Are your horse’s farrier X-rays making a difference? The Plaid Horse explores how X-rays can support optimal hoof care by giving farriers the insight they need to balance, align, and address any underlying issues. This article dives into the benefits of incorporating X-rays in your horse’s regular hoof maintenance to keep them sound and performing at their best. For tips on how X-rays can improve your horse’s farrier visits, check out the full article here.

Sponsor Corner

It’s officially day one of competition at The Event at TerraNova! You can follow along live here, and tickets for hospitality options are still available here.

To learn more about this event and how to follow, check out our preview article here.

Video Break

Relive THAT Olympic dressage test with Laura Collett:

All Horses Accepted in the Trot Up for the B&D Builders CCI4*-L at The Event at TerraNova

By on Nov 13, 2024 7:17 pm -

Lucienne Bellissimo and Tremanton (Birkhof’s Grafenstolz x Hand In Glove) embraced Florida’s windy weather with a flowing top during the
B&D Builders CCI4*-L Trot Up at The Event at TerraNova.
Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Dozens of horse trailers made their way through the gates of TerraNova Equestrian Center today ahead of The Event at TerraNova this week. With 247 combinations entered, the stables were quickly filled with activity and feelings of excitement for the first competition at the venue since the spring. After October’s Dressage at TerraNova CDI-W was cancelled due to widespread effects from Hurricane Milton, the team at TerraNova Equestrian Center is feeling glad to get back into the swing of things for a successful week of competition.

As the final FEI event in the United States for 2024, all eyes are on The Event at TerraNova and the B&D Builders CCI4*-L, which will get underway Thursday, November 14 at 8:00am with the first part of the dressage phase.

Today, the trot up saw 17 horses presented under the Florida sunshine. Gusty winds made the unseasonably warm 87° temperature more bearable, but despite the warm weather, riders donned their fall fashions in full force. All 17 entries were accepted, including Great Britain’s Lucienne Bellissimo and her mount, Tremanton (Birkhof’s Grafenstolz x Hand In Glove), a bay Thoroughbred-cross mare, owned by Horse Scout Eventing LLC.

Last November during The Event at TerraNova, Tremanton made her CCI4*-L debut and held the lead through dressage and cross-country, falling short of the win behind Jenny Caras and Trendy Fernhill (ARS Vivendi x Cruising), by just .02 seconds. This year, Bellissimo and Tremanton are back and ready to take on the week ahead.

“[I look forward to] giving them all a good educational run on such beautiful ground and feeling how the new course rides,” said Bellissimo. “It looks like lots of new features, and much more undulation built- really impressive. I’m hoping to have a nice last 4*-L before aiming Tremanton for the Kentucky 5* in the spring.”

Bellissimo also has an entry in the CCI3*-L presented by The Estates at TerraNova and Laughlin Tanner Group at Premier Sotheby’s International Realty. Also cross-entered in the CCI4*-L and the CCI3*-L is United States Olympian, Lauren Nicholson.

“I’ve competed at TerraNova in other divisions and am always pleased to see the changes and improvements every time we have returned,” Nicholson said. “I have not ridden many of Alec’s courses, but I had a great go around his tracks this spring and I’m hoping I feel the same this time around.”

The CCI3*-L trot up saw 21 horses presented, with only one, Espoir De La Sienne (Fortunus x Muguet Du Manoir) with Shelby Brost riding for Canada, sent to the holding box and eventually not accepted.

All horses for the Leibold Irrigation CCI2*-L and the Stephex USA CCI1*-L were accepted.

Competition begins tomorrow at 8:00am for the first day of dressage.

The Event at TerraNova (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Volunteer]

Watch Indoor Eventing at the Stuttgart German Masters Today

By on Nov 13, 2024 12:02 pm -

Photo courtesy of Stuttgart German Masters.

We’re getting into indoors season in Europe as the Stuttgart German Masters get underway, featuring an indoor derby tonight that’s drawn a star-studded roster.

Top names such as Michael Jung, Ingrid Klimke, David Doel, Cathal Daniels, Malin Hansen-Hotopp, and many others will contest this evening’s class, which can be viewed live with English commentary on ClipMyHorse.TV with a paid subscription. The indoor evening class will begin around 3:45 p.m. EST and can be found by clicking here.

Here’s a look at the full entry list:

No. Horse Rider
1. Zaragoza
bay 8y. G/ Zapatero VDL/ Laudabe/ / 108AC25/ Bente Bartels, Gerrit Jan Hazelaar		 Wilken,Jordy
2. Eastbourne
15y. G/ / Elmshorn/ / 104ZH25/ Sarah Field		 Sjoborg,Sofia
3. For ever Pleasure N
chest 12y. M/ Firth of Lorne/ Phantom/ / 106SY26/ Schmülling,Pia/ Breeder: Neukötter,Heike		 Schmülling,Pia
RUFV Hesel u. Umg.
4. Ballypatrick SRS
bay 13y. G/ Pacino/ Clover Hill/ / 105TH93/ Ruy Fonseca and Renata Rabello Costa/ Breeder: Austin Broderick		 Fonseca,Ruy
5. Jamira
dbay 11y. M/ Donauklang/ Accuse/ / 106YG14/ Möritz,Corinna/ Breeder: Möritz,Corinna		 Möritz,Anika
RFV Obercarsdorf u. Umgebung e. V.
6. Anapurna de Soulac
dbay 14y. G/ Gatsby de Soulac/ Gaiac de la Roque/ / 105JB29/ Mme Mailys MEYRE		 Brun,Lucas
7. Gredington Mailthyme
bay 14y. G/ Jaguar Mail/ Queens Soldier/ / 105EH94/ Kate Churton		 Duffort,Arthur
8. Fairytale
chest 17y. M/ Fidertanz/ Laurentianer/ / 104YH84/ Neukäter,Gerd/ Breeder: Neukäter,Gerd		 Schaaf,Anna Lena
Reiterverein Stockum
9. Tullibards You Make Me Feel
grey 8y. G/ Beowulf/ / / 107IP50/ Hans Kühnle		 Weimann,Katja
10. Kilcandra Ocean Power
chest 11y. G/ BGS Ocean View/ Bonnie Prince xx/ / 106IQ78/ Familie Jung/ Breeder: Cousins,Vincent		 Lux,Sven
RSG Altheim
11. Rioghan Rua
chest 17y. M/ Jack Of Diamonds/ Flagmount King/ / 103YI06/ Margaret Kinsella		 Daniels,Cathal
12. Grazia K
bay 8y. M/ Gem of India/ Lemon Park/ / 107OF10/ Brandt,Alexander/ Breeder: Kietzmann,Axel		 Siemer,Anna
RUFV Hausstette
13. Vendee Globe’Jac HDC
15y. G/ / Shogoun II/ / 104XZ43/ S.A.R.L. Haras Des Coudrettes		 Gualtieri,Lisa
14. Gunpowder du Leou
bay 8y. S/ Entebbe de Hus/ Oberon du Moulin/ / 108FT76/ E.A.S. Ecurie Lolli/ Breeder: E.A.R.L Ecurie Pascal Leroy		 Lejeune,Camille
15. Callfield
bay 13y. G/ Canstakko/ Heraldik xx/ / 105RK84/ Hansen-Hotopp,Malin/ Breeder: Hacker,Doja Claudia		 Hansen-Hotopp,Malin
Club der Vielseitigkeitsreiter Inse
16. Cascamara
bay 10y. M/ Cascadello II/ Templer GL xx/ / 106WX34/ Lauber,Claudia/ Breeder: Bergendahl,Helmut		 Klimke,Ingrid
RV St.Georg Münster
17. Sammy Davis Junior
bay 15y. G/ Imperial Heights/ Condios/ / 104TD17/ Margaret Kinsella, Cathal Daniels/ Breeder: Amanda Vogan		 Kuehnle,Jennifer
18. Crunchip M
grey 15y. M/ Cassini Boy Junior/ Feiner Stern/ / 105IL98/ Böckmann,Liam/ Breeder: Münker,Franz-Josef		 Böckmann,Calvin
RC Bergerhof
19. Captain Kadou
bay 12y. G/ Kannan/ Olisco/ / / Jos Houben/ Breeder: M. Macault 99		 Doel,David
20. Ignatz H
bay 9y. G/ Inliner/ Carolus/ / 107EX18/ Faye Füllgraebe-Jung/ Breeder: Jürgen Hatzmann		 Jung,Michael

One Last Dance: Preview The Event at TerraNova

By on Nov 13, 2024 9:00 am -

Jessica Phoenix (CAN) and Freedom GS. Shannon Brinkman Photo

It’s time to get underway with our final FEI event of the U.S. eventing season, and it’s a big one held down south in Myakka City, FL at the beautiful TerraNova Equestrian Center. This event has become a popular final stop on many riders’ busy schedules, with offerings ranging from National divisions up through CCI4*-L, and you’ll be able to take in the action in person or from afar all weekend long.

Relevant Links

The Event at TerraNova (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [Volunteer]

Social Media Links

[TerraNova on Facebook] [TerraNova on Instagram]

The Schedule

A busy schedule awaits! Here’s a look at the full schedule, which of course is subject to change, along with the various happenings for spectators and competitors alike:

Wednesday, November 13
2:00pm – Trot Up, all FEI horses
Pavilion open for general seating

Thursday, November 14
Dressage phase begins
8:20am – CCI3*-L Dressage (Magnolia Arena)
3:00pm – CCI4*-L Dressage (Lakeside Arena)
5:00pm – Welcome Party with games for charity
and the Reins of Resilience award ceremony
Pavilion open for general seating

Friday, November 15
8:30am – CCI4*-L Dressage (Lakeside Arena)
9:37am – CCI4*-S Dressage (Lakeside Arena)
2:30pm – CCI4*-S Show Jumping (Magnolia Arena)
Pavilion open for general seating

Saturday, November 16
9:40am – CCI3*-L Cross-Country
11:00am – Empty Bowls fundraiser begins
11:45am – CCI4*-L Cross-Country
12:45pm – CCI4*-S Cross-Country
Pavilion restricted to Empty Bowls ticket holders
Get Tickets Now!

Sunday, November 17
7:00am – Sunrise Service with Pastor Lynn Howell (Pavilion)
8:00am – Trot Up, all FEI horses
10:00am – CCI3*-L Show Jumping (Lakeside Arena)
10:30am – VIP Brunch begins
11:30am – CCI4*-L Show Jumping (Lakeside Arena)
Pavilion restricted to VIP table holders after Sunrise Service
Reserve Your Table!

Happening Daily: Boutique vendor shopping, local food trucks, Tiny Town children’s playground, and more! Bring a lawn chair if you wish to watch cross-country from the course. Free shuttles are available from the parking lot to spectator areas. Well-socialized dogs are welcome on a leash.

Also, a note to all junior riders, 18 or under! You can apply for the Reins of Resilience Award, presented in honor of Gabriella Reitmeyer, who passed away at the age of 15 following a courageous battle against cancer. Learn more about this award and how to apply here.

How to Watch

There will be a free live stream provided all weekend long. We don’t have a full schedule of this stream yet, but will update this post once we do. Presumably, the top divisions, the CCI4*-L and CCI4*-S, will be broadcast, but other divisions will likely also be included on the schedule.

You can access the live stream here.

The Officials

For the B&D Builders CCI4*-L and the Insurance Offices of America CCI4*-S, the USA’s Marilyn Payne will preside over the Ground Jury, joined by Bea di Grazia (USA) and Richard Baldwin (GBR). Andrew Temkin (USA) is the Technical Delegate for the 4* divisions.

Alec Lochore (GBR) will resume his designing duties on cross country, ably assisted by Mogie Bearden Muller (USA). Chris Barnard (USA) is the show jumping designer for all levels.

You can view the full list of officials here.

The Entries

It’s an exciting line-up that aways in the B&D Builders CCI4*-L division, which has an 18-combination entry list. The Insurance Offices of America CCI4*-S, which is also the final qualifier leg of the US Equestrian Open, features 9 horse and rider combinations.

You can dive deeper into the US Equestrian Open implications for the 4*-S field in the EquiRatings Fan Guide here.

Looking to the 4*-L entry list, we have a couple of re-routes from various fall destinations, including Jessica Phoenix and Jim Phillips’ Wabbit, who retired on cross country at Maryland last month, and Lauren Nicholson with Ms. Jacqueline Mars’ Larcot Z, whom she opted not to run at Boekelo due to the horrendous, muddy conditions. Jessie Phoenix also brings forward Fluorescent Adolescent, opting for another 4*-L for this mare after withdrawing her before cross country at Maryland, as well as Sara Irving’s Aeronautics, whom she opted to retire after a drive-by on cross country at Morven Park in October. Olivia Dutton and the Sea of Clouds Partnership’s Sea of Clouds have also returned stateside after a very unlucky parting of ways on cross country at Boekelo last month abbreviated their weekend.

We also send a warm welcome back to the level to Cornelia Dorr and Daytona Beach 8, back in action together after Cornelia’s maternity leave. Her husband, Jacob Fletcher, took the reins on Cornelia’s horses to keep them ticking while she was out of the saddle, but best believe she grabbed them back as soon as she was able!

Looking to the Insurance Offices of America CCI4*-S, Bouckaert International winners Sara Kozumplik and Rock Phantom are poised to pick up another win at the level (and more points toward that US Equestrian Open Final at Morven Park next fall), but will see some competitive threat from the likes of Phillip Dutton with both Caroline Moran’s Quasi Cool and Azure, as well as riders like Sweden’s Jennie Jarnstrom-Dennis and Flower Girl, who have found success at this venue in the past.

This is, of course, just a glimpse at the entry list! You can dive in for yourself by clicking here.

While we don’t have a reporter on site this weekend, you can expect nightly press releases from the event here on EN as well as a final, in-depth recap coming your way on Monday of next week. In the meantime, keep up with the live stream and scoring, and we’ll see you on the flip side!