Classic Eventing Nation

Reporter’s Notebook: Galway Downs Spring International

By on Mar 30, 2021 3:00 pm -

Auburn Excell Brady and BSP Tuxedo. Photo by Sally Spickard.

It was indescribably fantastic to be out at an event doing some coverage this past weekend, and I’m still flipping through the photos wondering when I can get back out there next. As a reporter, you walk a fine line between wanting to report on the actual action and facts while also feeling drawn to the constant undercurrent of other stories – the ones that may not make the final report, but that leave a lasting impression nonetheless.

Of course, the best way to capture your own memories is to support your show photographers and videographers, who work insanely long hours to create gorgeous final products for their customers.

Tails were a flying today at the kick off of the Galway International. Feels good to be back at it.

Posted by Tina Fitch Photography on Thursday, March 25, 2021

The creatives of the sport often go unnoticed, under promoted, or thankless, especially as the world continues to evolve to the point of high-quality smartphone cameras and affordable DSLR options. But the craft of photography isn’t one that can simply be picked up on a whim – these professionals spend hours of their lives perfecting their skill and putting their best work on display.

This weekend’s photographer at Galway Downs was Tina Fitch Photography, and videos can be purchased from Ride On Video (on whom we just ran a fun profile last week).

There is certainly something about a horse galloping across a field. Don’t they write poems and songs about that too?

Posted by Tina Fitch Photography on Wednesday, February 3, 2021

 

 

As my final farewell (for now!) from wine country, enjoy a few shots and small stories from another gorgeous eventing weekend.

Formerly a grass arena on which show jumping was held, the newest arena is accentuated in dramatic fashion by these trees. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Despite a chilly start to the weekend, the California sun broke through for some cross country day heat. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Visible from the new dressage arenas is the training track that also makes its home here at Galway. Note the wine country touch of the early morning hot air balloon! Photo by Sally Spickard.

Tina Fitch, the show photographer, worked tirelessly all weekend to create beautiful memories for riders. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Collapsible tables on display! Photo by Sally Spickard.

Kick for home! Photo by Sally Spickard.

There aren’t many better views, in my opinion! Photo by Sally Spickard.

Area VI rider Madison Temkin rides with a South African flag pin in honor of beloved eventer, friend, and mentor Kate Gillespie. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Many thanks to the hardworking volunteers and officials this and every weekend. Photo by Sally Spickard.

And that’s all she wrote. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Galway Downs International H.T.: [Website] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [EN’s Coverage]

A Q&A with Banixx Rider Ariel Grald

By on Mar 30, 2021 1:30 pm -

In 2019, Ariel Grald, an international 5* event rider and her horse, Leamore Master Plan or “Simon,” finished in the top 10 at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials in Stamford, United Kingdom. This finish earned the pair the distinction and recognition as the highest placed finish for Burghley first timers. They also had success in 2019 at their 5* debut at the Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event finishing in 12th place. Ariel and Simon’s plans to return to international competition in 2020 were put on hold as the worldwide pandemic took center stage. As equestrian events and competitions cautiously and optimistically move forward in 2021, Ariel and Simon are working to successfully return to international competition.

Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan. Photo by Britt Gillis.

Q: You did very well at Burghley. Tell us about your experience?

AG: Competing at Burghley was an incredible experience. It’s a massive venue. Burghley House is stunning, and the estate is so scenic. But there’s a lot of terrain. Even just hacking from the stables up to the dressage and show jumping arena is a decent workout. The cross country course is pretty relentless. You’re going up and down hill a lot. You’re always riding over changes in terrain so that was very challenging.

When I competed at the Kentucky CCI5*, I wasn’t as aware of the people watching along the ropes of the cross-country course because it was a bit more open. There are way more people at Burghley, that was the biggest thing I noticed. Some of the galloping lanes are a bit narrow and some parts are a little bit more twisty and there are spectators everywhere. They don’t have a big grandstand like at the Kentucky Horse Park, but there is stadium seating that goes all the way around all four sides of the grass arena where the dressage and show jumping is held. It’s pretty intimidating!

Q. Do you have a horse you are going to take to the Land Rover Kentucky event this year?

AG: We are not going to Kentucky this year, unfortunately. With the uncertainty with Covid and everything I had made a different plan for my top horse, Simon, because I’m really trying to get him back oversees. We are aiming him for another event a little later in the spring hopefully, in Germany.

Q: Why are you pointing him towards Europe? What’s the difference?

AG: It’s for his experience and for my experience and for the international scene. Just looking ahead, we are trying to make the U.S. Championship teams and you’re always going to be traveling, either to Tokyo or to World Games that are in Italy in 2022. Anytime I can go to a new venue and deal with the stress of traveling for both of us riding in arenas that we haven’t been to, riding on cross country and show jump courses that we haven’t been to is to keep building our experience.

Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan navigate the Burghley Trout Hatchery en route to 12th place. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Q: Every industry was impacted by Covid last year. Some things implemented out of this worldwide emergency, such as Zoom and working from home, are most likely here to stay. Is there anything in the equine industry impacted by Covid that’s also here to stay?

AG: After horse trials were shut down for several months at the start of the pandemic, we were fortunate to resume competitions in the summer. While major CCI5* events such as Burghley and Fair Hill were cancelled, I feel very lucky that we were able to finish out most of the event season. As we all hope to return to some version of normal, I think the enhanced use of technology for communication will stay. For example, show venues send out mass texts to riders, grooms, and others regarding schedule updates and other important information. Also, many professionals turned to virtual lessons to allow people in different areas to train together and I imagine this may continue in the future. Many trainers share tips and ideas on social media by uploading videos and giving educational talks. I’m impressed at how many people throughout all aspects of the sport used technology to overcome logistical issues caused by Covid. 

Q: Everybody has their own riding styles, especially when you get to upper levels. You like to work with each horse as an individual. How does that make a difference in your riding?

AG: I feel like I am able to really get to know all the horses that I have. I spend so much time with each individual horse that I think I end up developing a really good partnership with each one. Some like a little more rein pressure, others like little more leg pressure. I know what support they need from me and how they like to be ridden or the warm up routine for dressage. So I’m lucky that I get to spend enough time with each horse every day when we’re training at home and to really learn about their personalities. I like sort of quirkier horses. I don’t mind ones that are little bit fresh or a little bit higher energy. I actually prefer that ride. So in having some that are a little more sensitive you really have to spend that time to get to know them.

Q: What’s your approach when competing in straight show jumping versus to the show jumping phase of eventing?

AG: I like to bring my dressage saddle and I still go do flat work with the horses to get them ready at the show venue. Some of my event horses can be strong and unfocused if I go straight to jumping them. They are used to having their dressage test and then either going to cross-country or show jumping next. It’s a good time to practice different warm up strategies– which jumps I’m going to jump, how many and how high before I go in the ring. A lot of eventers take their event horses to jumper shows to work on how to best prepare them and it’s a good way to work on those technical show jumping skills. It’s useful to go to a jumper show for several days, jump multiple courses and not have the pressure of being at a horse trials.

Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Q: What do you like most about Banixx products for your horses’ routine care?

AG: I’ve used all of them but I think we use the shampoo the most. The wound care cream and spray I use to treat particular issues of course if a horse has a cut. The wound cream we use a lot on their legs. Often if they have some irritation on their heels or anywhere on their legs, we use the spray for that. So those two products I use to treat certain issues. The shampoo we use routinely. If their skin is in pretty good condition we wash their legs a couple times a week with it. We just got back from Florida where the horses are always getting leg scurf and funk. So being able to use the shampoo on their legs and do the full leg soak for 10 minutes and wash it off, that’s a really important part of daily care of the horses in those environments like Florida where it’s humid and where the horses are quite likely to get skin irritation.

Q: Why do you choose Banixx versus other products?

AG: I think their products are effective and I have many horses with sensitive skin. My top horse, Simon, has four white socks. His pink skin is very easily irritated. I like that Banixx has the collagen in it and the way the formula is made it doesn’t over dry or doesn’t cause further skin irritation. It actually helps soothe their skin. My horses wear boots daily for either schooling and competition, and are often bandaged or poulticed after they gallop and jump. This means we wash their legs frequently, so I have to be careful which shampoos we use. Some other products are harsh and make their skin worse and angrier. But Banixx really, really helps.

Ariel Grald is based out of Setters’ Run Farm owned by Annie Eldridge in Vass, North Carolina. For more information, visit arielgrald.com or settersrunfarm.com. To learn more about Banixx, visit banixx.com.

Brought to you by BANIXX – The #1 trusted solution for equine and pet owners! Learn more about Banixx.

FEI Publishes Return to Competition Measures for Mainland Europe

By on Mar 30, 2021 12:00 pm -

Stock image via Canva.

The FEI has today published the Return To Competition measures that will allow for a safe resumption of international sport in mainland Europe on April 12 following a six-week shutdown to control the spread of the neurological form of the Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1).

The measures focus on six key areas: Pre-event venue preparations by Organisers; Athlete pre-event preparations; Examination on Arrival; Onsite at Event Venue; Departure from Events; and Jurisdiction.

The Return To Competition measures, which were comprehensively reviewed at a stakeholder consultation session last week and fine-tuned by both the FEI Veterinary Epidemiology Working Group and the FEI Veterinary Committee, have now been approved by the FEI Board.

Stakeholders who joined last week’s two-hour online consultation session included Athlete Representatives Pedro Veniss (Jumping) and Beatriz Ferrer Salat (Dressage), Eleonora Ottaviani (International Jumping Riders Club), Klaus Roeser (International Dressage Riders Club), Peter Bollen (Equestrian Organisers), Dominique Megret (Jumping Owners Club), Quentin Simonet and Ulf Helgstrand (European Equestrian Federation), together with international grooms Heidi Mulari (Steve Guerdat) and Kirsty Pascoe (Jérôme Guery), and FEI Events Stable Manager Patrick Borg.

The measures include a series of temporary provisions, which will remain in place until May 30, 2021, providing a science-based safety margin to allow for monitoring of any further related outbreaks. This date can be extended if required and advance notice will be provided to the community. These temporary provisions will be formalised in legally binding Bylaws which will be published during the week commencing April 5 2021.

The FEI Veterinary Epidemiology Working Group has agreed that there is currently no evidence indicating that it would be unsafe to return to international competition in mainland Europe as planned on April 12, provided the mandated enhanced preventive measures are implemented and there are no further linked outbreaks. The Group will continue to monitor the evolution of the European outbreak on a daily basis.

The FEI HorseApp will be updated with new modules which will allow for enhanced traceability as part of the EHV-1 Return To Competition measures. These will be launched in the second week of April.

The Return To Competition measures, which clearly outline roles and responsibilities, are available online and for download in the dedicated EHV-1 hub. Additional documentation will be added in the coming days.

Amateur’s Corner: Krista Wilson on Self-Sufficiency, the Eventing Bug, and the Value of Volunteering

By on Mar 30, 2021 9:00 am -

Welcome to Amateur’s Corner on Eventing Nation! The goal of this series is to gather perspective, experience, and advice from the hardworking and dedicated amateurs that populate our sport. We’ll be doing Q&A profiles with amateurs from all walks of life, hoping their experiences can help others working to balance horses with, well, the rest of life. Do you want to participate in an Amateur’s Corner Q&A? Send your tip to [email protected]. To read more Amateur’s Corner Q&As, click here. Next up is Krista Wilson, a dedicated volunteer and retired teacher who events at the Novice level in Area III with her 8-year-old warmblood, Stella.

Krista Wilson and Stella at Three Lakes. Photo by Victoria DeMore Photography.

EN: First, tell us a little about yourself.

KW: I was born in Georgia grew up in Tallahassee, Florida. I did not start lessons till I turned 24 and started my first teaching job in Jacksonville, FL. I rode with Jack Kenny of Durbin Hill Farm and did the hunter/jumpers with him on OTTBs in the 80’s and 90’s. He was an Irishman and he was the “go-to” guy in the area if you had a horse with a problem. He trained lots of OTTB’s and I got a great foundation of how to take care of horses. It was not a fancy place, but the horse always came first. They looked like a million bucks. He was such a great horseman. I looked up to riders like Rodney Jenkins, Michael Matz and Margie Goldstein as they were the riders who were winning in showjumping at the time. I bought my first horse, Doc Holiday from him.

EN: What or who gave you the “eventing bug”?

KW: I started eventing in 2002 with Linda Konst in Wesley Chapel, Fl. when I moved my second horse, Duchess to her barn. She had a lovely cross-country field and we just started playing around with the jumps there. My horse was ready for a change from the hunter ring, and Linda was just so knowledgeable on every aspect of horses. I was not remotely aware of how to do dressage, but Linda was very patient. Linda is an all-around excellent horse woman. She is another great friend who feels like family. Everyone loves her! I have been so fortunate to meet the right people at the right time. Like Jack Kenny, horsemanship is paramount in her book.

EN: Tell us about your “work/life/ride balance”. What does this mean to you?

KW: Embrace the suck! I am a retired teacher and have a very nice 8-year-old warmblood Novice horse, Stella. (We were ranked #5 in the country last year at Beginner Novice and are ranked #2 at Novice on the USEA leaderboard as of this month) She cost less than $4,000 and I bought her at an online auction without a vet check, without sitting on her. I had planned to pay around $2300, but drinking wine while on the phone with a fellow eventer, I ended up going a bit over budget! She is the nicest horse I have ever owned. I think she might be by Silvio, an Oldenburg stallion who is not registered but sired quite a few horses up in Virginia, but I am not 100% sure of her breeding.

I have bought and sold horses that did not work out. I did not start riding till I was 24 years old and bought my first horse at age 33. I am 59 yrs old and I have never given up on my dream. It is not an option, I am determined and thoughtful in my choices. I often work in exchange for lessons. I organize clinics and my fee is free participation. I watch the warmup of the best riders, and I watch training videos. I am a good grant writer and have benefited from a Sports Psychology Grant that the USEA offered and I won.

I do live in Area 3 in Florida, so I am lucky to have the opportunity to show with some of the best in the country. I support the local riding eventing group (FHTA) and also benefit from being a member. I frequently volunteer at horse shows – this gets me free schooling passes and free education, and is also a lot of fun! I don’t understand why people do not volunteer more – it is such a good way to learn. I guess that many people do not want to put in the hard work to succeed. I am not sentimental about selling a horse if it is not helping me towards my goals. I have had to pay mortgages, car payments, VISA bills, and insurance like everyone else.

My advice? Buy used (truck, trailer, tack,) everything! I have zero regrets because now, I am retired and showing rated shows and having an absolute blast. When there is a rated show, I often stay overnight with a friend or camp in my horse trailer at a place near the show that is less costly than on the show grounds. My experience as a school teacher taught me to deal with disappointments and brush them aside and move on. My horses got me through the stress of work for years- I know that so many people find solace in riding and just being around horses, I feel lucky to have horses in my life. You have to think outside the box and just push on through. Start volunteering and see what happens. I have shown without a groom my entire life; it’s not easy, but I am very self-reliant and self-sufficient.

Photo by Lisa Madren.

EN: Describe a typical day in your week.

KW: Get up, have coffee, fix breakfast, and lunch-to-go. Often, I cook dinner in the morning, so I just have to reheat it when I get home. I like to read in the morning. We have a great newspaper in my area, and I like to stay informed on current events. Next, go to the barn and either work around the barn (painting jumps, cleaning stalls, dragging the arena, always a project that needs doing), and ride Stella.

I try to take a dressage lesson and a jumping lesson every week and I try to school cross country twice a month. I do fitness work with Stella, which is walking 30 minutes to an hour at least three days a week. I have the best trainers! Blair Martindale is my dressage trainer and she has found a way to make dressage fun! That is pretty huge! Richard Mathews is my jumper trainer and he has the best eye. I am amazed at the progress Stella and I have made under his tutelage. When I told him last year that I was getting rails in stadium more than I cared to admit, he had me change my warmup. I have not had a rail since!!! (Six shows and counting!) I use Zoe Crawford for cross country and with her, I have done jumps that I have never thought were possible. For example: we jumped a log into the water at Barnstaple the other day- and I told her it was a “bucket list” item for me! Riding should be fun and with these trainers, it always is. What they have in common is they are all patient, have good senses of humor, and are not too intense in a lesson. They

EN: What is your best advice as an amateur rider? How do you “make it work”?

KW: Marry a good person who understands how much the horses mean to you. I met my wonderful husband, Ron when I was 40 years old through my sister. We hit it off quite well and I feel like I won the lottery! He is my number one fan, and he has always been super supportive! When I met him, I had just completed my second university degree and I had just gotten my second horse, Duchess. I sold my first horse, Doc, after I realized that I could not afford the hobby. I went back to school and got my Master’s degree and then when I bought the next horse, I could actually afford to pay all the bills and sleep at night.

Happy hour on horseback! Photo by Amy Welch.

EN: What drives you/motivates you the most?

KW: I love horses, I could just be around them and be happy. They are the most beautiful animals in the world. If I watch a horse movie, I get misty eyed just seeing a horse canter across the screen. I have no idea why, but I was born this way.

EN: What is the best or most impactful piece of advice you’ve gotten as an eventer?

KW: Lift your eyes.

EN: In one sentence, what does the sport of eventing mean to you?

KW: You don’t have to sit in the saddle to learn something new about eventing: volunteer!

EN: What is something with the sport that could evolve to better serve its amateur riders?

KW: I feel so strongly about volunteering. I think that all amateur riders should be required to put in 10 hours a year volunteering at a horse show in order to compete at any regional or national championship. This sport runs on volunteers and it’s like professional development hours when you volunteer: you have to constantly sharpen that knife or it gets dull.

That being said, I think professionals need to think about how they can support the volunteers more. Everyone – amateurs and professionals alike – has a responsibility to think about how they are affecting the sport. You are a role model whether you want to be or not. Try to be a good one!

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feeds

By on Mar 30, 2021 12:01 am -

Boyd Martin and Leo. Photo by Tod Marks/National Steeplechase Association.

Boyd Martin’s youngest son, Leo, competed in the Chesire Foxhounds Point-to-Point Leadline race this weekend with the pony named Emma. The race was off to a bumpy start, and Leo unfortunately toppled early, but he and his pony sure look adorable. Speculation remains to the cause of the fall, but Silva says it “might or might not be the handler’s fault!” We’re sure you’ll be at the front of the pack next time, Leo!

Events Opening This Week: Hitching Post Farm H.T., Hunt Club Farms H.T., Fair Hill International H.T., Majestic Oaks Ocala H.T., Mill Creek Pony Club Horse Trial, Texas Rose Horse Park H.T., Galway Downs Spring H.T., Woodland Stallion Station H.T., Spokane Sport Horse Spring H.T., Winona Horse Trials

Events Closing This Week: Unionville H.T., Longleaf Pine H.T., USEA MDHT FEH/YEH/NEH Qualifier, Ocala International Festival of Eventing, FENCE H.T., Sporting Days Farm April H.T. III, Holly Hill H.T.

Tuesday News:

Our hearts are heavy to hear of the passing of China Doll, a 15-year-old Irish Sport Horse evented by James O’Haire. The mare suffered a colic this week and could not be saved despite surgical efforts. This pair completed numerous CCI5*-L together. Our hearts go out to the entire team. [Angelica]

Equestrians are bred to be tough, but sometimes that leads us to fighting battles alone. After breaking her collarbone, show jumper Karrie Rufer found herself chanting the familiar lie, “I’m fine.” [Karrie Rufer: Why I Struggled to Admit I Wasn’t Okay]

A lower leg puncture was nearly career ending, but former bankruptcy attorney Lara Gardner never gave up on her Thoroughbred, Well Spoken. Now he’s back, better than ever, and eyeing a climb up the levels of dresage. [Back From The Brink: A Tale Of Tendon Triumph]

What we’re listening to: USEA Podcast #280: Top Tip from Top Grooms #2

Hot on Horse Nation: 10 Things Good Trainers Do

Tuesday Video: Cross country footage and tips from Alex Bragg:

We enjoyed a wonderful day xc schooling at Pontispool Equine Sports Centre. I’ve added a few xc tips on the voiceover which you may find interesting. We are all very excited that our sport is resuming. Good luck at your first events and enjoy 😊 DevoucouxEquilibrium ProductsSsangYongGBEvent CollectionProtexin Equine PremiumConnolly's RED MILLSCarr & Day & MartinDengie Horse FeedsEquiclass BootsGatehouse HatsBetter4HoovesEqui-TrekCannington Enterprises Ltd

Posted by Team Bragg Eventing on Thursday, March 25, 2021

Monday Motivation Video: Four Weeks Until Kentucky!

By on Mar 29, 2021 5:00 pm -

The EN team is counting down the days until the 2021 Land Rover Kentucky 3-Day Event and we’re very excited to bring you the wall-to-wall coverage that you know and love, plus some very cool extras this year. I can’t give anything away just yet though, so that’s all going to have to wait! Until then, we just have to keep pressing forward with the promise that our five-star drought will soon be over and this high-energy montage of moments from the last iteration of the event should help.

Relive some of the highs, lows, and erm … dicey moments from the last time riders blazed across the bluegrass in 2019 with this video montage put together by adult amateur eventer Juliana from Alabama. Juliana is also an ICU nurse and a registered nurse anesthetist who has been working tirelessly through the COVID pandemic. Much love to you, Juliana, for your work — hang in there! Check out her YouTube channel and learn more about her here.

Weekend Winners: Galway, Stable View, Full Gallop, Majestic Oaks, Morven Park, Poplar Place

By on Mar 29, 2021 3:00 pm -

Photo by Sally Spickard.

I was finally able to venture out to take in an event this past weekend, providing EN’s coverage of the FEI divisions at Galway Downs. While the weather was a bit cold and wet on Thursday, the sun came out just in time for cross country and gave us a real glimpse at Southern California in the spring. Above is one of my favorite shots from the weekend, of Jeff Goodwin and Exactleigh on their way home in the Open Preliminary division. The snow-capped mountains in the background coupled with the spring colors makes a great illustration of the time of year here!

Our Unofficial Low Score Award this week goes to Shelby Murray and Reverie GWF, who won their Junior Training division on a score of 18.3. Low scores are par for the course for this pair, but this finishing score still comes as a personal best; their previous personal best was a 19.8 at Galway in 2019, at the Novice level. Well done, you two!

Galway Downs International H.T.: [Website] [Results] [EN’s Coverage]

CCI4*-S: Erin Kellerhouse and Woodford Reserve (30.1)
CCI3*-S: Alina Patterson and Flashback (30.1)
CCI2*-S: Lauren Billys and Can Be Sweet (28.6)
Intermediate: Hilary Burkemper and Undercover (32.4)
Open Preliminary: James Alliston and Calaro (29.1)
Preliminary Rider: Karleen Williams and Next Dance (26.3)
Jr. Training Rider: Shelby Murray and Reverie GWF (18.3)
Open Training: Jordan Linstedt and Lovely Lola (19.3)
Sr. Training Rider: Megan Robinson and Daisy (28.6)
Training Amateur: Kristen Davignon and Fürst Floid (30.6)
Training Horse: Kelsey Devoille and Cute Casalita (33.6)
Jr. Novice Rider: Simone Clark and Indio BMW (21.2)
Novice Amateur: Bari Boersma and Choo Choo (31.1)
Novice Horse: Asia Vedder and Get Cheeky (21.0)
Open Novice: Madelyn Floyd and Redfield Bajall (24.8)
Sr. Novice Rider: Jordan Chase and Welligton (22.4)
Beginner Novice Horse: Kelsey Holmes and Karel H (25.6)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Michelle Jones and Balou Print (22.8)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Michelle Cameron Donaldson and Danny Boy (34.4)
Open Beginner Novice: Erin Kellerhouse and Genesis (22.2)

Stable View Spring 1*/2*/3*/4*: [Website] [Results] [EN’s Coverage]

CCI4*-S: Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous (28.5)
CCI3*-S: Leslie Law and Lady Chatterley (29.4)
CCI2*-S: Alyssa Phillips and Cornelius Bo (27.5)
CCI1*-S: Alyssa Phillips and FE Celestino (34.5)

What a weekend ! I just saw this quote from Jimmy and thought that it embodied everything about Morris .
Thank you so…

Posted by Holly Jacks-Smither on Saturday, March 27, 2021

Full Gallop Farm March II H.T.: [Website] [Results]

Preliminary: Kelly Ransom and Heart of Hollywood (30.7)
Preliminary/Training: Courtney Lucas and Titan (35.9)
Training A: Abigail Steinberg and Infinity (31.0)
Training B: Jocelyn Have and Cadbury VT (28.6)
Novice A: Taylor Berlin and Carlingford Beach Boy (28.3)
Novice B: Emily Watson and Vendi (28.8)
Novice C: Laura Voorheis and Herbst Capella (26.0)
Novice D: Liliana Villarreal and SS Ritchie (32.3)
Training/Novice: Kara Angulo and Cicero (32.4)

March H.T. at Majestic Oaks: [Website] [Results]

Open Preliminary: Ben Noonan and Keep Kitty (31.1)
Preliminary Rider: Emeline Gilbert and Herr Winzig (27.8)
Open Training A: Mia Farley and BGS Calculated Chaos (24.3)
Open Training B: Madeline Backus and Froggy (28.3)
Training Rider A: Lucine Claudel and Tsantania (27.1)
Training Rider B: Maddie Hale and Firebolt (29.5)
Novice Rider A: Darlene Walters and Concord Dawn (26.7)
Novice Rider B: Kate Brown and Royal Lufttanzer (27.6)
Open Novice A: Karl Slezak and HSF Liam McCarthy (24.1)
Open Novice B: Hannah Sue Burnett and Prontissimo (26.2)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Landry Lies and DJ (35.4)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Crissa Gillette and EPA Wildfire (33.2)
Open Beginner Novice A: Nataly Pacheco and Grace On Ice (20.1)
Open Beginner Novice B: Cole Horn and Will O Moor Invictus (26.9)
Starter-Intro: Cindy Stewart and Nocello (28.1)

Morven Park H.T.: [Website] [Results] [EN’s Coverage]

Open Intermediate: Skyeler Voss and Argyle (36.2)
Open Prelim A: Ema Klugman and RF Redfern (28.0)
Open Prelim B: Mike Pendleton and Redfield Fellow (35.2)
Junior Training Rider: Clare Brady and Goodness Gracious (37.5)
Open Training: Bruce Davidson and Invito (30.7)
Prelim-Training: Martin Douzant and Olympus (32.4)
Training Horse: Allison Smith and Great Red Dragon (32.1)
Training Rider A: Morgyn Johnson and Peter Parker GS (31.1)
Training Rider B: Anna Gibson and Black Label (29.3)
Junior Novice Rider: Kate Thresher and Silver Bop (30.2)
Novice Horse: Jan Byyny and Layla LFS (29.5)
Novice Rider: Holly Thornhill and Phineas Flynn (32.1)
Open Novice: Erin Murphy and Rough Heart (30.2)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Ainsley Colgan and Ginobi (26.1)
Open Beginner Novice A: Elizabeth Henry and Sandino FRF (32.2)
Open Beginner Novice B: Brooke Bayley and Botshabelo MVH Z (28.1)

 

The Fern… she handles each challenge with aplomb, and like any good student she’s always eager to guess the right answer and hungry for more.

We started with a relaxed, obedient dressage test which could have featured more pizazz but scored a 27. She positively bounced around the show jumping, throwing in a few tempi changes for good measure which cracked up Amina Harouna who was filming. I started out steadily on cross country to let her find her feet and understand the bigger jumps. By number 6 she was having the time of her life so I let her gallop on. There is something really satisfying about a horse who gains confidence as they go around a course! It fuels my addiction of producing horses, and boy has she has been fun and rewarding to bring along.

Thank you Marilyn Little a million times over for finding this special horse. This was the 10th event of her career and her 7th win… so we are looking forward to many more!

Posted by Ema Klugman on Sunday, March 28, 2021

Poplar Place Farm March H.T.: [Website] [Results]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Melanie Smith and Shakedown Street (43.3)
Open Preliminary: Leah Snowden and Ormolu (31.4)
Modified: Margo Deal and Miss TLC (39.1)
Open Training: Laurel Massey and Lisheen Lismakeera (33.8)
Training Rider: Sarah Slaughter and In The Spotlight (32.2)
Jr. Novice Rider: Emma Spring and Fernhill Copas (28.1)
Open Novice: Madalyn Ellis and Fernhill Magic (26.9)
Sr. Novice Rider: Abby Blackburn and Opposition Lady (29.3)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider: Kyla Barton and Cultivate (36.5)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider: Meredith Hunter and Classic Imp (31.8)
Intro: Raegan Hornfeck and Legendary Spots (41.7)
Starter: Sidnee Milner and Peter Pan (35.3)

Texas Rose Spring H.T.: [Website] [Results]

Advanced/Intermediate: Lauren Lambert and Fantastique (49.2)
Open Intermediate: Ellen Doughty-Hume and Break-in’ All the Rules (60.6)
Open Preliminary: Laura Vello and Sophia Tharseo (42.4)
Preliminary Rider: Kristina Whorton and Finnigan (28.0)
Open Training: Molly Scher and Inferno (29.5)
Training Rider: Katherine Walling and Somestarsomewhere (26.9)
Jr. Novice Rider: Kate Bell and Daphne AS (29.5)
Novice Horse: Becky Roper and Crystal Jack (26.4)
Open Novice: Jessica Ptak-Hooker and Nila Gray Dancer (29.3)
Sr. Novice Rider: Sarah Kaufman and Cache River (28.8)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider A: Addie Miller and Portlaoise Lordano (32.8)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider B: Kaetlyn Perkins and Arizona Sweet (28.3)
Open Beginner Novice: Lynne Partridge and Cassander Z (30.1)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider: Anna Hailey and Roma (32.4)

Our weekend at Texas Rose Horse Park was amazing! Finn and I put in our best dressage test and scoring a 28 which is our…

Posted by Kristina Whorton on Monday, March 29, 2021

Arena Building 101, Part 2: A Solid Foundation

By on Mar 29, 2021 1:00 pm -

We’re pleased to present a six-part column all about arena building and maintenance, presented in partnership with FutureTrack. In part one of the series, you can find an overview of factors to consider when deciding to build. Today in part two, we dive into the concept of arena foundations. To learn more about FutureTrack, visit futuretrackarenas.com.

Stock photo via Canva.

Q: What are the elements of a solid arena foundation, and why is this so important?

FutureTrack co-founder Michael Pollard says that nearly half the jobs he and his father, Jack, work on are re-dos for customers who’ve been led astray during the arena building process.

As with anything worth a long term investment, building a solid foundation is key to any subsequent success. To better understand the process of establishing a strong base when building a riding arena at home, we asked Michael for his top recommendations:

Location, Location, Location

The pretty, relatively level field at the bottom of your property may seem like an idyllic spot for building a new riding arena. Or perhaps there’s some space on the property where there isn’t any existing infrastructure, seeming like a great building spot. But pay attention to the flow of land; one of the important aspects to consider when putting in your base is the flow of water.

“Often when a client starts, they want to put the arena in a place where there are no buildings but maybe that area is already in a bit of a hole,” Michael says. “And you have to have water go somewhere, so it will naturally want to stay where it is. You have to recognize that you’re going to have to build up the surface to give the water somewhere to drain.”

Finding the Right Contractor

When you’re looking for an initial contractor to do the grading to establish your base, Michael says, it’s important to find someone who understands the nuances of riding arenas. Not every contractor is well-versed in this segment of the industry, and there are plenty of pitfalls that can arise from an incorrectly graded base.

“There is always someone who will come in and say, ‘oh yeah i can put it there’,” Michael explains. “But often property owners need a little guidance in choosing the right spot and then determining the viability of that location.”

Down the Drain

Water retention and drainage is a factor to consider when placing the arena’s base. There are different types of drainage, depending on the building budget and the nature of the arena.

When building an arena, a sub-base is typically dug into the ground by an excavator. Building up a “crown” or a higher level from which water can drain towards the outside of the arena is often a part of the sub-base process. From there, many builders will lay down a layer of stone dust which is then compacted (this can be done simply by riding on this surface) before the footing is laid down on top.

“If you are going to spend money somewhere, spend it on making sure your base is done correctly,” Michael advises. “You’re better off having something consistent, a little harder than you might want at first, that’s going to be a good layer that you can build on rather than just throwing sand on top of dirt. It’s a complete waste of time and money, but it’s very easy to have someone convince you to do that. You have to have a base, period, there’s no way around that.”

Through all of these layers, there must be a well thought-out path for water to flow. An arena without sufficient drainage will suffer from loss of elasticity and stability and also runs the risk of erosion, particularly if the arena is placed on a hill. Obtaining guidance from professionals such as those at FutureTrack can help property owners find the best base and drainage plan for building a riding arena on a wide range of budgets.

Coming next month in our six-part arena building series in partnership with FutureTrack: what considerations should you make when it comes time to choose footing for your new arena?

Did you know that FutureTrack Footing offers free estimates and full arena construction services in addition to high-quality fiber footing? Click here to learn more and request your quote.

Cancelled Spring Internationals in Britain Find New Homes for 2021

By on Mar 29, 2021 11:00 am -

Piggy March and Fonbherna Lancer in Little Downham’s inaugural CCI4*-S. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

What goes up must come down, yada yada; as eventers in a pandemic, we’re all perfectly familiar with the concept (and, of course, the disappointment). But thanks to the fast action and forward thinking of a bevy of eventing organisers in the UK, it’s beginning to look like that which goes down may well get a chance to get back up, dust itself off, and kick on for the finish. After the gutting of the spring international calendar in England left riders and owners scrabbling for a season plan for their horses, nearly all the heretofore cancelled competitions have been reinstated – each in temporary new homes.

Although we won’t see a relocated Badminton, the iconic Bramham CCI4*-L, CCI4*-S and CCI4*-L for under-25s will run at Devon’s popular Bicton Arena. Though the West Country facility hasn’t yet hosted a four-star, it’s a much-loved and well-established national and international fixture, and a plethora of riders lent their voice of support to its bid for Bramham this year. The competition will take Bramham’s scheduled dates of June 9–13.

Chatsworth’s CCI4*-S, which ordinarily takes place the weekend after Badminton, is another destination event for riders – and though they won’t have the chance to gallop through Queen Mary’s Bower in 2021, prolific national venue Aston-le-Walls has stepped up to host its CCI2*-S, CCI4*-S and Advanced sections, plus a range of Novice and Intermediate sections from May 12–16.

Belsay Horse Trials has also stepped up to host a CCI2*-L for juniors, which will take place June 3–5, while Cirencester Park makes a welcome return to the BE calendar, hosting the cancelled Withington Manor’s May 1–2 fixture, which features Novice through Advanced national sections and two CCI2*-S sections, including a pony section.

Where some see doors closing, others see opportunities – and this has certainly proven true for Tina Ure, organiser of Cambridgeshire’s Childeric Little Downham Horse Trials. The event, which hosts a well-subscribed Advanced class in the autumn, designed as preparation for Pau, launched its feature CCI4*-S last year – and this spring, the team is excited to debut an idea that Tina’s been dreaming up for several years. Following the cancellation of the Fairfax & Favor Rockingham International, Tina has teamed up with Rachael Faulkner of Hampshire’s Tweseldown Horse Trials, sponsored by the Lucinda Green XC Academy, to launch Little Tweseldownham International. The two separate events will take place consecutively, with Tweseldown hosting competitions on May 20 and 21, and Little Downham taking the stage on May 22 and 23. Each event will offer Novice and Intermediate sections as well as Rockingham’s CCI2*-S and CCI3*-S classes – but in an exciting twist for riders, these international sections will take place over the course of one day, minimising the need for on-site stabling, limiting biosecurity risks and keeping costs lower for riders and owners.

“Like so many owners I had been looking forward to watching my horses compete at the stunning Rockingham Castle, but will have to wait for next year,” said Tina. “I am grateful to British Eventing for endorsing this joint bid with Tweseldown and our innovative timetable that will enable both professional and amateur riders the opportunity to complete CCI-S in one day, something that has been a long-time ambition of mine.

“I have shared the frustration of many owners and riders about the additional expenses often incurred to compete at this level and welcomed the opportunity to try something different. Working with Rachael at Tweseldown is a new collaborative venture aimed at maximising the competition opportunities for all despite the difficulties caused by the Coronavirus and EHV-1.”

Several top-level riders lent their support to Tina and Rachael’s entrepreneurial spirit.

“This new format is a much needed and long-awaited development and could be just what’s needed to help revive and lift the sport,” said Burghley winner Caroline Powell. “Keeping the costs low and limiting the need for onsite stabling will make the FEI classes more accessible for new competitors and makes it more financially viable for professional riders and owners.”

Full-time vet and CCI5* competitor Katie Preston agreed: “Being able to do a CCI3*-S in one day, at the weekend, would be a big advantage to those of us who have to juggle annual leave. By the time you’ve factored in 3 days off for a Spring and Autumn long format and then the time off for 4-5 short formats in a season it doesn’t leave you any days for an actual holiday.

“Onsite stabling is so expensive that I will often look for local stabling and drive in each day. This format would really reduce the costs and hassle for a large number of riders.”

Young professional Alex Whewall praised the economic efficiency of the decision as a business owner: “Rockingham was a key fixture for me with the younger 3* horses so it is really good to see it’s being replaced. As a professional rider running a smaller operation the CCI events can get expensive for me as a business, as it requires longer periods of time away and therefore increased staff costs to cover the horses at home.

“Having a choice of very good locations, with good ground and organisation is really good. The real bonus will be getting the CCI done in one day.  That is going to be a benefit to a lot of people and we’re really keen to see how it will work.”

Morven Park’s 2021 Season Kicks Off with Spring Horse Trials

By on Mar 29, 2021 9:00 am -

Skyelar Voss won the Open Intermediate division with Argyle. Photo by Erin Gilmore Photography.

Over 200 competitors turned out at Morven Park International Equestrian Center over the weekend for the Leesburg, Virginia venue’s Spring Horse Trials. Here’s a brief recap of the action, with divisions ranging from Beginner Novice to Intermediate and including for the first time a Prelim-Training division:

Congrats to Open Intermediate winners Skyeler Voss and Argyle, her own 13-year-old Thoroughbred gelding (Private Gold x Aunt Tizzy, by Cee’s Tizzy). This well-established three-star pair started their weekend in third on a dressage score of 32.2, then climbed a place in each subsequent phase to claim the top spot, show jumping clear and collecting four time penalties cross country. “It felt so good to be back out on my favorite Thoroughbred doing what we love!,” Skyeler shared on Facebook. We love Skyeler and the Morningside Training Farm crew for repping the OTTBs — and looking great doing it! #TeamCheckers

Boyd Martin and Penhill Celtic began the weekend in the lead then slipped to second having had a rail and 5.6 cross country time penalties. Third-placed Alex Reed and On Broadway were the only pair in the 15-horse division to finish cross country inside the time.

We’re proud of our own Jumper Nation editor/four-star eventer Ema Klugman‘s win in the Open Prelim A with RF Redfern, Jeni Klugman’s 8-year-old Westphalian mare (Any Given Sunday x Zsa Zsa). As with Skyeler, Ema climbed a place each phase for the win on a final score of 28.0.

“The Fern … she handles each challenge with aplomb, and like any good student she’s always eager to guess the right answer and hungry for more,” Ema shared on Facebook. “We started with a relaxed, obedient dressage test which could have featured more pizazz but scored a 27. She positively bounced around the show jumping, throwing in a few tempi changes for good measure which cracked up Amina Harouna who was filming. I started out steadily on cross country to let her find her feet and understand the bigger jumps. By number 6 she was having the time of her life so I let her gallop on. There is something really satisfying about a horse who gains confidence as they go around a course! It fuels my addiction of producing horses, and boy has she has been fun and rewarding to bring along. Thank you Marilyn Little a million times over for finding this special horse. This was the 10th event of her career and her 7th win … so we are looking forward to many more!”

Martin Douzant was second in the division with Frame Shamrock, and Daniel Clasing was third with Olney Uncle Sam, who has been competed through the four-star level with Emily Beshear.

Mike Pendleton was the winner of Open Prelim B with Redfield Fellow, an 11-year-old Dutch gelding (Ustinov x Kelly) owned by Lydia Sarro. They were tied for second after dressage, then jumped their way to the top of the leaderboard to finish on a score of 35.2. It sounds like Mike thinks very highly of this horse as an upper level prospect, and he’s for sale, so reach out if you are interested!

Also in the Open Prelim B division, Mackenzie Parks and Mojave Moon were second; Morgan Connelly and Benevolence were third.

Bruce Davidson Sr. and Invito. Photo by Erin Gilmore Photography.

Other Morven winners include:

Junior Training Rider: Clare Brady & Goodness Gracious (37.5)
Open Training: Bruce Davidson & Invito (30.7)
Prelim-Training: Martin Douzant & Olympus (32.4)
Training Horse: Allison Smith & Great Red Dragon (32.1)
Training Rider A: Morgyn Johnson & Peter Parker GS (31.1)
Training Rider B: Anna Gibson & Black Label (29.3)
Junior Novice Rider: Kate Thresher & Silver Bop (30.2)
Novice Horse: Jan Byyny & Layla LFS (29.5)
Novice Rider: Holly Thornhill & Phineas Flynn (32.1)
Open Novice: Erin Murphy & Rough Heart (30.2)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Ainsley Colgan & Ginobi (26.1)
Open Beginner Novice A: Elizabeth Henry & Sandino FRF (32.2)
Open Beginner Novice B: Brooke Bayley & Botshabelo MVH Z (28.1)
You can view complete results here.

“This was my first time attending Spring Horse Trials and I was awe-inspired by the sheer scope of an eventing competition,” says Stacey Metcalfe, Morven Park’s new Executive Director/CEO. “Each phase of competition was more exciting than the last and of course the competitors were all so impressive. We cannot thank the riders, officials, judges, and volunteers enough for coming out this weekend, in the sun and in the rain, to celebrate horse trials with us.”

Cross-country took place on the Park’s sprawling 1,000 acres and competitors enjoyed dressage and show jump arenas outfitted with Eurotex footing from Attwood Equestrian Surfaces.

The Morven Park International Equestrian Center thanks Sponsors SmartPak and Winchester Equipment Company, Silver sponsor Adequan, and Bronze level sponsors Total Equine Veterinary Associates, Coat Defense and In Memoriam Pet Services for their support of Spring Horse Trials.

The Morven Park Fall International Horse Trials and CCI4*-L, CCI3*/2*YH-S, CCI 4*/3*/2*-S will be held October 6 – 10 and the Park’s popular hunter/jumper summer series kicks off next weekend with a sold-out show. Visit MorvenPark.org/Equestrian for details. For sponsorship opportunities, email [email protected].