Classic Eventing Nation

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands

By on May 24, 2025 12:01 am -

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

U.S. Weekend Preview

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

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

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

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

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

Major International Events

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

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

Links & Reading

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

Reiner Klimke Wowed The World At 1984 LA Games

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

Relief for Roaring: Possible New Surgical Procedure

Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands

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

Video Break

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

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier, Julia Krajewski Lead 4* Divisions at Equestrian Festival Baborówko

By on May 23, 2025 4:51 pm -

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Kiarado d’Arville. Pakula photo.

The second day of the Equestrian Festival Baborówko was marked by elegance and precision. Riders showcased their skills in the dressage phase across multiple national and international classes, and spectators were treated to top-tier performances, highlighting the exceptional level of competition at this year’s event.

In the most prestigious class of the festival – CCI4-L, the trophy of KUHN Maszyny Rolnicze under the patronage of the Marshal’s Office of the Greater Poland Voivodeship – Lara De Liedekerke-Meier (BEL) took the lead riding Kiarado D’Arville, scoring an impressive 28.1 penalties. She was followed by Pia Leuwer (GER) on Jard with 32.4 penalties, and Felix Vogg (SUI) placed third aboard Frieda with 33.2.

Julia Krajewski and Uelzener’s Nickel. Pakula photo.

In the CCI4-S, the prize of patron of the show Roman Roszkiewicz, Julia Krajewski (GER) delivered an outstanding dressage test with Uelzener’s Nickel, scoring just 20.4 penalties. Felix Vogg (SUI) came second on Colero (28.4), and Arne Bergendahl (GER) third with Bronco NRW (28.9).

Felix Vogg and Colero. Pakula photo.

In the CCI2-S, the trophy of Grupa DUON, Brandon Schäfer-Gehrau (GER) leads after dressage on Cadorico with an excellent score of 19.5 penalties. Nicolai Aldinger (GER) follows in second place with Giganta (26.4), and Antonia Baumgart (GER) is third on Blaya D’Ha Z (26.7).

Arne Bergendahl and Bronco NRW. Pakula photo.

In the national CNC100 class, Polish rider Daria Kobiernik on Bellaton-III-WM claimed the top spot with a score of 29.4 penalties. Nicolai Aldinger secured second place with Quality De La Vie (29.7), and Michał Hycki placed third on Neapol (30.6).

Julia Rhode and Kingston. Photo by M. Flatow.

Among the youngest competitors in the CNC100-18 class, Julia Rohde leads aboard Kingston with 26.9 penalties. The second place is shared by Rita Vaarala (FIN) on Sunnyside 3 and Pola Stachura on Pepper N, both scoring 30.6.

Organizers anticipate an exciting continuation of the competition in the upcoming days, with the cross country phase set to test the courage, stamina, and partnership between horse and rider. Equestrian Festival Baborówko is not only a top-level competition but also a celebration for equestrian enthusiasts, drawing riders from across Europe and crowds of passionate fans.

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

Friday at Bicton Shows Four New Leaders and Great Britain Ahead in FEI Eventing Nations Cup

By on May 23, 2025 4:38 pm -

Friday at the May International Horse Trials in Bicton, Devon marked the start of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™. Sunny skies and close scores set the stage for a thrilling weekend.

Teams from Australia, Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand and the United States faced off in the first leg of the 2025 FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ series. After finishing third last year, Great Britain has come out strong, taking the early lead with a combined score of 74.6, 12.5 points ahead of New Zealand’s 87.1. The U.S. currently sits in third on a score of 91.2. Olivia Dutton and the Sea of Clouds Partnership’s Sea of Clouds are the highest-placed U.S. riders in the division, earning a near-personal best 29.7 to sit in 12th after dressage.

Laura Collett and London 52 lead the TopSpec CCI4*-S incorporating the FEI Eventing Nations Cup. Photo by ESP Photographic.

One of the most decorated duos in the competition, Laura Collett and her Olympic partner London 52 delivered a show-stopping test to score 18.5, their first sub-20 since the Paris 2024 Games. The 16-year-old gelding, owned by Collett, Karen Bartlett and Keith Scott, reminded everyone why they’re one of the most consistent pairs in the sport.

Before Collett’s afternoon ride, New Zealand briefly held the top spot thanks to Samantha Lissington’s impressive 23.9 on Lord Seekonig, affectionately known as “Charlie”, fresh from a win in the CCI4*-S at Oudkarspel this year.

Laura Collett’s Nations Cup test shook up the competition in the TopSpec CCI4*-S, surpassing her overnight score on Dacapo. She is followed by New Zealand Nations Cup rider Lissington in second and Kitty King on Vendredi Biats, or “Froggy” to his friends, sitting in third on 24.5. With less than a fault separating second through fifth, it’s shaping up to be a close competition.

Kitty King and Dassett Flight Path lead the Equilume CCI2*-L. Photo by ESP Photographic.

The dressage in the Equilume CCI2*-L yesterday was already proving to be a close call, with Tom McEwen and Jason Wood only a point apart in the top two. Another day of dressage has seen a competitive test from Kitty King on Elizabeth Golby’s Dassett Flight Path narrowly nipping the lead from McEwen with a score of 26.7. A pair not to ignore, off the back of an exciting six-year-old season, having been to Le Lion d’Angers Young Horse Championships in 2024, he is proving to be a future star for Kitty. “I was hoping he would come here and now have the mileage and experience to show himself off and really put in a good performance, so I was delighted to pull it off with him,” commented Kitty, post dressage. “He did a lovely test, he was really rideable and is just a joy to work with.”

Elizabeth Barratt and Ride For Thais Chaman Dumontceau lead the British Young Rider National Championships sponsored by Succeed. Photo by ESP Photographic.

Echoing Collett’s double dominance, the Succeed British Young Rider National Championships saw Elizabeth Barratt and Barratt Eventing’s Ride For Thais Chaman Dumontceau, take the top spot from her other ride Big Boss Melo, who now lies in fourth place going into cross country. Closely behind are Finn Healy with Greannanstown Monbeg Joe (second, 0.7 behind) and Jemima Howden on Monbeg Whisper (third).

Ros Canter and Armscote Explorer
lead the Symonds & Sampson CCI3*-L. Photo by ESP Photographic.

Staying on theme with the day, the Symonds & Sampson CCI3*-L saw the overnight leader take the top spot from themselves, with five-time 5* winner Ros Canter and her second ride Armscote Explorer taking the lead off Silvester Finesse, holding consistent with her score only 0.2 marks ahead. She is proceeded by Tom McEwen and Shannondale Arnold, who lie close behind on 25.3, with Barnie Brotherton on Whixley Qualitas and Tom McEwen’s other ride, Maestro, both sitting on 27 penalties.

With only a few points in play across all sections, this weekend will see two thrilling days of cross country and show jumping action.

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

Megan Hopkins & Altaskin Jack Take Early Lead in CCI3*-S at VHC Eventing, Presented by Capital Square

By on May 23, 2025 10:42 am -
Megan Hopkins and Altaskin Jack Photo by Haley Boothe Megan Hopkins and Altaskin Jack Photo by Haley Boothe

Lexington, VA – May 23rd, 2025 – The Virginia Horse Center was bustling with activity during day one of VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square. A total of four FEI divisions and six National divisions kicked off the competition weekend. Two long format competitions, a CCI1*-L and a CCI2*-L, completed their dressage tests on Friday, May 23rd, while the CCI2*-S and CCI3*-S tackled two phases– dressage and show jumping.

At just 17-years-old, Megan Hopkins was surprised to find herself at the top of a tough leaderboard after the conclusion of both dressage and show jumping in the CCI3*-S. She’s riding her own Altaskin Jack, who she purchased from four-star event rider James Sommerville. Sommerville campaigned “Jack” at the four-star level from 2019 to 2022, now the Irish Sport Horse is teaching Hopkins the ropes.

“He’s the first “I-know-my-job” schoolmaster horse I’ve had,” Hopkins said of the 17-year-old gelding. “It’s really helpful because before him I didn’t have a ton of confidence and I had just been running at the two-star level before him. Now that I have him, I really feel like all of my goals and dreams are coming to life.”

Hopkins just moved up to the Intermediate level this spring; this weekend is her first attempt at the three-star level. “This was definitely a big event for me to come to and I’m really just hoping to finish with a really positive run,” Hopkins said. “I was not expecting to jump into the lead or be so competitive after dressage.”

Megan Hopkins and Altaskin Jack. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

Show jumping has not been Hopkins and Jack’s favorite phase. Feeling the pressure of being able to take the lead, Hopkins’ show jumping warm-up didn’t exactly go to plan. “Warm-up was not quite ideal,” she said. “I was really nervous and stressed coming into the show jumping, but I kinda just knew what I had to do. I knew I needed to put my leg on, tell him where to go, and let the fences come to me.”

Hopkins early success this weekend has been shaped by the lessons she learned in the Emerging Athletes Under-21 National Camp in January. “David [O’Connor] is really good with finding one or two things that each of us needed to work on,” Hopkins said. “He immediately told me to stop nitpicking, stop overthinking. Get him underneath you and just go do the job. It immediately helped our show jumping and our cross country.”

Emily Hamel & Kingston Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

Emily Hamel is leading the way in the CCI2*-L division aboard Kingston, owned by Black Flag Option, with a score of 31.5. The pair is holding the lead by just a tenth of a point, with Tim Bourke hot on their heels, riding Barbara Cassini’s Quality TNT. A 15.3 hand Dutch Warmblood gelding, Kingston may be smaller than your average event horse, but he is a certified powerhouse. Despite it being his first attempt at an FEI this weekend, BARN NAME scored his lowest dressage score yet. Typically scoring in the mid- to high- 30s, Kingston dropped his average score by at least five points.

“It’s a good time to have your best score for sure,” Hamel said, chuckling. “He came from a jumper background in Europe, so dressage has been the trickiest part. I was really pleased for him. We’ve been working hard and clearly it paid off, so I was really proud of his try today.”

Kingston is still a new partnership for Hamel. Her trainer, Grant Wilson, found Kingston for Hamel in Belgium. Hamel was lucky enough to fly through Amsterdam a few weeks later. During her layover, she took a quick drive from the airport to test ride Kingston and decided to bring him home– if only that was as simple as booking an extra seat.

Over the last several months, Hamel has been introducing him to the world of eventing. This weekend marks his first attempt at an FEI event. “I got him in November so it’s still a pretty new partnership,” Hamel said. “I’ve got such a strong partnership with my five-star horse, Barry, so bringing these younger horses along is just a bit different. But he’s really fun. He loves the job. He’s got a really cool personality– he’s just a happy go lucky guy.”

Looking ahead to tomorrow’s cross country course, Hamel said the terrain is first and foremost on her mind. “I think they’ve done a great job with the course,” she said. “I think the biggest thing, at least for me and my horses, is the terrain. We’re in Aiken full-time now, so we don’t have nearly as many hills. I’m just hoping that I did the fitness work, but I mean the course is beautiful and I do love coming to this event. It’s so stunning with the backdrop of the mountains.”

Lucienne Bellissimo and Duke’s Jory. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

With four horses to compete this weekend, three in the CCI2*-S, Lucienne Bellissimo is holding all of the top three spots on the CCI2*-S leaderboard with Duke’s Jory, Tremanton, and Qatar M (all owned by Horse Scout Eventing) respectively. Bellissimo says she’s been very carefully nurturing Duke’s Jory up the levels over the last five years.

“I’ve produced him very, very slowly, because he’s done a lot of growing,” she said. “I got him as a five year old at about 16.1 hands. He’s now 17.2 hands just a couple of years later. So I’ve really taken my time with him. He’s a beautiful, moving horse.”

With a score of 23.8, it’s clear that the time she’s taken to produce the gelding to this level is paying off. “He was very rideable today on his test, which is good because his work at home has been super and he did very well at the one star level last season,” Bellissimo said. “I was hoping to start to get into the low 20s on him at two star this year.”

Bellissimo is using VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square, as a test of fitness for the 8-year-old. “There’s a lot of blood about him,” she said. “But with that, he’s also still quite weak. So I’ve taken my time, and my intention this year is just to consolidate him at two star. And I believe in him very much, so for the long run as a proper, proper four or five star prospect, but he just needs to strengthen up.”

Lucienne Bellissimo and Duke’s Jory. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott

That being said, the rolling terrain at the Virginia Horse Center will be the biggest test of Duke’s Jory’s fitness yet. While Bellissimo feels he’s ready, she’s planning on playing it safe for his first time around such a big course.

“I don’t want to knock him off balance,” Bellissimo said. “We’ll see how he feels. Obviously it would be lovely to try and keep him in the lead if I can, but if for any reason, it feels as though he’s a little bit worried about the undulations, then we’ll get a few time faults, but it would be nice to put a win on his record.”

Lisa Chan & Picture This. Photo by Haley Boothe

Lisa Chan is holding onto the lead in the CCI1*-L division, riding her own Picture This, with a score of 31.4. An adult amateur, Chan has owned “Dougie” for the last five years and has trained him up from the Beginner Novice level.

“We’ve had some you know growing pains, but it seems like it’s starting to come together, so I’m really excited about that,” Chan said. “He used to be really tense and nervous like all the time and it seems like he’s relaxing and enjoying showing now. He’s the best thing ever. He’s my whole world.”

Chan has been producing Dougie up the levels outside of her day job as a hairstylist. When she first purchased the gelding, she didn’t have too much eventing experience. “We’ve learned and grown together,” she said. “It’s honestly been really special. I want to just have fun with him, but to do a two star would be cool.”

Originally native to Virginia, Chan says she’s been coming to VHC Eventing for years. “Virginia is my favorite event,” she said. “It’s beautiful. The cross country is simply wonderful, it’s well-organized.”

Preliminary through Advanced National divisions kicked off the horse trial portion of the weekend today.

Advanced Combined Test
First – Will Coleman & Very Dignified
Second – Sydney Elliott & QC Diamantaire
Third – Will Coleman & Fahrenheit Addict

Advanced/Intermediate
First – Chris Talley & FE Marco Polo
Second – Lynn Symansky & Bounce 6
Third – Lucienne Bellissimo & Kitsch Couture HPK

Open Intermediate
First – Sydney Hagaman & Charmeur
Second – Ariel Grald & Libris Charlotte
Third – Barbara Crabo & I.M. Over It

Open Preliminary – A
First – Devin Robel & Gillou
Second – Will Coleman & Box Como
Third – Valerie Pride & Kiss My Jambo M

Open Preliminary – B
First – Valerie Pride & Excel Star Je T’Aime
Second – Sydney Elliott & Greenhall Good Decision
Third – Will Colemen & Honest Man

Preliminary Rider
First – Brooke Kahl & Nata Montada SCF
Second – Lyman Ordway & Exces De Folie
Third – Mackenzie Parks & Mr. McGoey

Tomorrow kicks off the compeititon for the remaining National divisions that have yet to compete. All FEI divsions will tackle the cross country courses, designed by Jay Hambly, starting with the CCI3*-S at 9:35 a.m. Tomorrow evening, VHC Eventing is welcoming competitors to a party from 4 to 6 p.m. on the hill, sponsored by Triple Crown. The vendor row will be open tomorrow from the start of competition until the end of the day. Competitors and spectators can enjoy shopping a variety of tack, equipment, clothing, and more!

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on May 23, 2025 12:01 am -

The Real Rider Cup is coming to the MARS Maryland 5 Star, presented by Brown Advisory, this October! If you haven’t heard of this awesome competition, it’s one very near and dear to the Thoroughbred-lover’s heart. The brainchild of Anita Motion, who has been involved in nearly every aspect of racing and carries the torch for Thoroughbred aftercare, this charity jumping competition teams up racing personalities and off-track Thoroughbreds and benefits programs such as Beyond the Wire, New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, and the Retired Racehorse Project. Over the past near-decade, the Real Rider Cup has raised over $600,000.

The Real Rider Cup will take place at the MARS Maryland 5 Star on cross country day, October 18, following the close of competition. You can learn more about the Real Rider Cup here and get information on tickets to the Maryland 5 Star here (the box office opens on May 27).

U.S. Weekend Preview

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

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

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

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

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

Major International Events

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

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

News & Reading

The USEF has expelled and imposed a cash fine on hunter/jumper trainer Shannon Eckel in the wake of a horse abuse case stemming from a 2021 incident that left one horse dead. While the horse’s death took place away from competition grounds, USEF was able to act because the horse was entered in a currently running USEF-licensed competition. Shannon is able to apply for reinstatement six months from the start of the expulsion date, “based upon affirmative proof of total rehabilitation, including proof that she has truly accepted responsibility for her actions and has taken steps to reform herself,” The Chronicle of the Horse reports here.

If you’ve been in a position where you want to lodge an appeal, inquiry or protest of a rule enforcement at a competition, you know it’s not always the easiest process to navigate. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be if this situation arises in the future. Brush up on how these procedures work here.

Horse & Hound has a preview of entries for the premier CCI4*-L of the UK summer at Bramham International, which takes place next month. The entry list features some Badminton re-routes and plenty of competitors ready to vie for the title. Check it out here.

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

Photo by Kevin McCormick.

Don’t forget to name your teams for the Adult Rider Team Cup happening at Stable View’s Summer H.T. June 20-22!

Teams can be comprised of three or four members. Each rider is only allowed to have a maximum of two horses per team. The best three scores on a team will count. Teams can be made up of professionals and amateurs and competitors can be riding at any level. Please email your team name with a list of your team members to [email protected] by the show’s closing date.

Video Break

Build up some confidence in this full episode of the 2024 Mochara All Star Academy on H&C+:

Dacapo Takes the TopSpec CCI4*-S Lead on Day One at Bicton International & FEI Nations Cup

By on May 22, 2025 2:44 pm -

Today marked the opening of the May International Horse Trials (May 22-25) at Bicton, Devon. The first competitors from all four classes headed down the centre line in the Western Counties main arena, signalling the start of the event.

Elizabeth Barratt and Big Boss Melo lead the British Young Rider National Championships sponsored by Succeed. Photo by ESP Photographic.

In the British Young Rider National Championships sponsored by Succeed Elizabeth Barratt and the Barratt Eventing owned 14-year-old gelding Big Boss Melo took the lead in the dressage with a score of 28.3. “I was really pleased with him in the dressage. He’s quite a sensitive horse and we’ve been working hard on our flatwork so it’s great to have a solid start to the competition. He’s an incredible jumper so I can’t wait to take him cross country on Saturday,” said Elizabeth. Snapping at her heals just 0.2 penalties behind in this competitive class is Holly Clarke and Mrs Alex Clarke’s Nico.

Ros Canter and Silvesters Finesse lead the Symonds & Sampson CCI3*-L. Photo by ESP Photographic.

Badminton winner Ros Canter and 8-year-old chestnut mare Silvesters Finesse lead the Symonds & Sampson CCI3*-L with 25.1. Owned by Deborah and Fergus Langstaff, Nessie, as she is fondly known at home, has had a good season so far with four top ten finishes out of six starts.

Tom McEwen and Brookfield Danny De Muze lead the Equilume CCI2*-L. Photo by ESP Photographic.

The dressage action in the Equilume CCI2*-L saw Tom McEwen take the lead on Mrs Alison Swinburn, John and Chloe Perry’s 7-year-old Brookfield Danny De Muze in his debut at this level with 27.5, exactly one point ahead of second placed Jason Wood and Nitor on 28.5.

Laura Collett and Dacapo lead the TopSpec CCI4*-S. Photo by ESP Photographic.

Having had a win at Thoresby’s CCI4*-S two months ago, Gillian Morris-Adams, Diana Chappell, Carolyn Taylor and Mr and Mrs Smedley’s 16-year-old Dacapo continues his form and leads the TopSpec CCI4*-S class with triple Olympic medallist Laura Collett on 24.8. Mark Davidson and The Round Table Syndicate’s Fonbherna Lancer sits in second by 2.1 points and Laura also has Mrs Lucy Nelson’s 14-year-old mare Hester in third on 27.9.

Laura commented on both her rides, “I am very happy with both horses in the CCI4*-S. Dacapo has always loved coming to Bicton and he’s an older horse who knows his job, so it makes my life easier!”

The FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ 2025 will officially get underway tomorrow with five teams set to compete in the dressage arena from 9:00 a.m. BST / 4:00 a.m. EST.

Mia Farley and Invictus. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

The U.S. is contesting this Nations Cup leg as a part of the USEF Eventing European Development Tour. The U.S. riders’ times are as follows:

  • Tiana Coudray and Coeur de l’Esprit Z: 9:06 a.m. BST / 4:06 a.m. EST
  • Molly Duda and Disco Traveler: 9:30 a.m. BST / 4:30 a.m. EST
  • Alex O’Neal and Redtail Penumbra: 9:42 a.m. BST / 4:42 a.m. EST (Nations Cup team rider)
  • Olivia Dutton and Sea of Clouds: 10:36 a.m. BST / 5:36 a.m. EST
  • Cosby Green and Highly Suspicious: 11:00 a.m. BST / 6:00 a.m. EST (Nations Cup team rider)
  • Mia Farley and Invictus: 12:00 p.m. BST / 7:00 a.m. EST (Nations Cup team rider)
  • Jenny Caras and Sommersby: 12:30 p.m. BST / 7:30 a.m. EST (Nations Cup team rider)

Beyond the sporting action, this year sees an evolution of the attractions on offer with displays on both weekend days from the thrilling Knights of Middle England. There is also a vast array of activities including the hugely popular family dog show on Saturday and Sunday, as well as a display from 2024 Crufts Champion Lorna Hayes with her canine partner Nora.

Tickets are available to purchase www.bicton.com and those 12 and under go free.

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

Bicton Sets the Stage for the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ Opener

By on May 22, 2025 12:30 pm -

Ros Canter and Pencos Crown Jewel. Photo by Hannah Cole.

This weekend, Bicton (GBR) will host the opening leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ 2025, with five teams set to compete in this CCIO4* competition which takes place from May 23-25.

A stellar list of entries consists of athletes from nations across the globe and includes Olympic medallists and seasoned 5-star athletes, as well as a number of rising stars in the world of Eventing. Many nations use this competition as a means of giving younger athletes more experience of competing on a senior team.

The host nation of Great Britain offered Chef d’Equipe Richard Waygood a strong squad of athletes to select from, including double Olympic team gold medalist Laura Collett with her Olympic horse London 52 and British team stalwart Gemma Stevens riding Chilli King. They are joined by Selina Milnes on Cooley Snapchat and Barnie Brotherton riding DHI King, who is making his senior team debut. New Zealand also fields a strong team with two five-star winning athletes- Jonelle Price and Caroline Powell. They are joined by Samantha Lissington and Nick Brooks.

Australia looks set to have an all-female team consisting of Catherine Burrell, Sarah Clark and Lissa Green. Ireland is another nation to field a three-person team but what they lack in numbers, they make up in experience, with three five-star athletes- Susannah Berry, Georgie Goss and, Padraig McCarthy. The USA have a strong squad to choose from, with several athletes travelling from their homeland to compete. This reinforces the significance of the Nation’s Cup Series to international athletes who wish gain team experience and collect Nations Cup points.

Bicton is a perfect venue for spectators and competitors alike. Set in the stunning Devon countryside, it offers spectacular views and makes full use of the rolling parkland terrain. This established venue has staged Eventing competitions since 1977 and runs two annual international events, but this is the first time they have hosted an FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ competition.

Helen West is both the Organiser of Bicton International Horse Trials and the Course Designer of this four-star course:

“It is a real honour to host the GB* leg of the Nations Cup Series, it is the prestige and kudos that comes with that. We stepped in to replace the Burghley 5-star in 2021 and it feels like there is a bit of recognition since. To be awarded this opportunity backs that up and is something we are very excited about.

“Bicton has been running for 48 years and we are very lucky that our hosts, Lord and Lady Clinton are so supportive of equestrian sport, particularly Eventing. It is lovely for them to get this sort of recognition too.”

With the cancellation of Montelibretti (ITA) and Haras de Jardy (FRA), the FEI has allocated six events in total which all take place across Europe. After Bicton, the Series moves to Strzegom in Poland which runs from June 18-22, with the Final taking place in Boekelo in The Netherlands, from October 9-10.

Last year 15 nations competed in the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ highlighting the depth and strength of athletes many nations now have in this discipline. The final standings saw France finishing on 420 points for overall first place, which was well ahead of Germany on 320 points who finished in second place.

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

Australia Announces CHIO Aachen CCIO4*-S Team

By on May 22, 2025 11:05 am -

Andrew Cooper and Sharvalley Thunder. Photo by Atalya Boytner.

Equestrian Australia has announced the athletes they will be sending to CHIO Aachen, which runs from June 27-July 6, for the CCIO4*-S that’s run in Nations Cup format with team and individual competitors.

Representing the Australians in Germany will be a team consisting of:

  • Sammi Birch and Finduss FPB
  • Andrew Cooper and Sharvalley Thunder
  • Kevin McNab and Faro IMP
  • Shane Rose and Easy Turn

This team is a mix of veteran and rising star talent. Shane Rose’s Easy Turn is coming off a serious hot streak of 4* wins, most recently winning the 4*-S at the Adelaide Equestrian Festival last month. Sammi Birch and Finduss PFB will be coming off a top-25 finish at Badminton earlier in May, and Kevin McNab has an exciting up-and-comer in Faro IMP, who most recently finished second in the 4*-L at Strzegom in Poland.

Eventing will run from July 4-6 at CHIO Aachen, and you can learn more information here.

The Strides for Equality Equestrians Ever So Sweet Camp is Coming This Summer!

By on May 22, 2025 9:30 am -

If you’re looking for something fun to do this summer, here’s another camp option for you! This one comes to us from Strides for Equality Equestrians (SEE), which is hosting their second annual fully-funded Ever So Sweet clinic opportunity at Sara Kozumplik’s Virginia base, Overlook Farm.

Strides for Equality’s second Ever So Sweet Camp provides a fully-funded opportunity for Equestrians of Color of any age to experience a week of training with an upper-level professional rider. Participants will take mounted and unmounted lessons with Sara Kozumplik at Overlook Farm in Virginia. Housing for riders and stalls for horses will be provided, and travel expenses will be reimbursed. There is also a limited number of horses available to use for the weekend if needed. Please indicate whether you will be bringing a horse to ride or are applying to use a provided horse.

SEE Ever So Sweet Camp 2025 will begin on Tuesday, July 15 and conclude on Friday, July 18.

If you want to participate, applications are due June 7. accepted riders will be notified by June 15 to allow time to plan travel. Auditing opportunities may become available once riders are finalized, and will be advertised on SEE social media.

To learn more and apply for your spot, click here.

Thursday News & Notes from VHC Eventing

By on May 22, 2025 12:01 am -

Have you caught up with the latest episode of The Go Eventing Podcast? In this special conversation, we sat down with equestrian broadcast pro John Kyle, whose voice can be heard on many major live streams in our sport. But John also believes we need more voices in our sport, and we wholeheartedly agree. Don’t miss this episode now on your favorite podcast platform or here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

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

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

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

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

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

Major International Events

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

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

News & Reading

Pippa Funnell’s 5* ride, MCS Maverick, has been sold to a syndicate and will be piloted going forward by fellow British rider Piggy March. The decision was a mutual one amongst Pippa and “Mav’s” previous owners, Nick, Olivia and Sarah Ross. Piggy’s done a couple of Intermediate events to date and will next contest the 4*-S at Bramham next month. As for Pippa, she’s not quite hung up her eventing boots just yet, but with other obligations such as having several Japanese riders based with her and hosting her own podcast, Talk Horse, competing has taken a bit of a back seat. She hopes to be out competing again later this year. Read more on this story here.

Instead of taking or giving all the blame, riders should understand that the results of their aids, good or bad, are always the rider’s responsibility (but not necessarily their “fault”). This focus on responsibility is key. Horse Nation writer Gwyneth McPherson muses on this topic more here.

The 2025 United States Eventing Association (USEA) American Eventing Championships (AEC) presented by Nutrena Feeds is just over three months away, which means it is time to start planning your trip to Temecula, California! This year, the AEC will be on a Western rotation to the ever-popular Galway Downs, which is a staple on the Area VI calendar each year. Read more about Galway Downs and the upcoming AEC here.

Sponsor Corner: VHC Eventing

Photo by Veronica Green-Gott.

VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square, gets underway this week (more information here) — but don’t forget to plan your return trip in August for a Schooling Event at Virginia Horse Center! 🐴✨

Here’s the need-to-know:

🗓️ Saturday, August 23: $75 Schooling Day — ride all 3 phases (Dressage, SJ, and XC) with no assigned SJ times and flexibility for groups.
🗓️ Sunday, August 24: Unrecognized Horse Trial, Combined Test, or Dressage Test of Choice — ideal for gaining experience in a relaxed setting.
💻 Enter in advance at EventEntries.com
📍 Open schooling runs 9AM–4PM Saturday
🏠 Stabling available + vouchers for scratches
Organized by Molly Bull | XC by Tyson Rementer

Let’s keep the momentum going all summer long! Enter now on Event Entries here.

Video Break

Don’t forget to catch the FEI Nations Cup live stream from Bicton this weekend, available on ClipMyHorse.TV, where several U.S. riders will also be competing!