Classic Eventing Nation

Eventing: A Sport of Comparison

By on Mar 3, 2021 3:00 pm -

AK Waller is 18 years old and a senior in high school headed to Auburn University in the fall. She’s looking forward to joining the Intercollegiate Eventing League team at Auburn.

AK Waller at Pine Top Intermediate in February 2021. Photo courtesy of Liz Crawley Photography.

Eventing: a sport we all know and love. A sport that we have grown to appreciate throughout the years. It’s all great and an amazing environment, but it’s time we talk about comparison. Comparison is seen all throughout the equestrian community and the world in general, but today I am talking about eventing in particular. As a young eventer I am constantly learning and bettering my riding as well as my outlook on the beauty of this sport, how individual it is. Although it is a sport that focuses on you and your horse as a pair, comparison is still widely seen. Comparison is found in many ways; the main views I will be speaking on are social media and comparison to yourself, the healthiest form of comparison.

Social media has evolved greatly in the recent years. It’s a beautiful thing to share your life and to document your progress as a rider. It’s a very nice community but filled with comparison. As someone who is active on Instagram daily, I have not only compared myself but I have also seen other comparing themselves. Sometimes we can’t help but do it because things are shoved in our faces. We are all growing and learning and, frankly, it’s great that people are doing so well – but at what point is the time to stop talking about it? The constant comparison in skill, finances, and horses is extremely abundant. There isn’t much that can be changed to stop comparison, as it is a personal thing people experience, but there is a way to learn how to be proud of ourselves and not flaunt it.
Social media has become a place full not only of support but also full of juxtaposing.

We as riders look up to many pros and young riders, which is completely healthy. At some points, this admiration becomes comparison. Learning to keep our ideas in check and knowing the fine line between comparing ourselves and idolizing someone is important. We have to be aware of the difference in us and the people we look up to. There is a reason we look up to the people we do: to give us motivation. They started somewhere just like we are.

There is absolutely nothing to be ashamed of. Comparison of level and age is something I have seen and something I have even done, and still do sometimes. There is no age limit to a level, only certain requirements for safety. This sport has no age and that is something I believe we should all love about this sport. Thanks to this idea we can all be eventing until we down bank into our grave (morbid, I know, but simply a metaphor). So how can we learn to be content with where we are and not compare ourselves to people who have been in this game longer than we have?

“Content” is a hard word because, frankly, it’s hard to be perfectly content all the time – but we can learn to be content in our own progress. I say we because this is something that I struggle with still. There is no reason to be ashamed of the fact that comparison is in your life; after all, comparison is everywhere.

What if we started to compare ourselves to, well, ourselves? Where would that get us? If we ventured back to us when we first started riding, think about how impressed little us would be. Little us would idolize us now, no matter our level. Comparing yourself to yourself is the best way to do it. When I was younger I watched a show, I’m sure you watched it too, called Horseland – only the best show for young equestrians. Something that I will always remember from that show is the quote, “Compete against yourself and no one else. Go for your personal best!”. That has always stuck with me and it’s something I try to live by, but we all have flaws. It’s ok to be competitive, and it’s ok to want to win; but don’t let it define you.

So from this I am trying to help us see the good and the bad in comparison. There is healthy comparison, more commonly known as looking up to someone, but at points it becomes negative. Don’t let your idolizing become you putting yourself down for not being at the same point other people are. We all started at different times and we all grow at different rates. Compete with yourself first and others second. We are doing our best and that is all that matters!

Updates on EHV-1 European Outbreak + One Case Reported in Ocala

By on Mar 3, 2021 12:22 pm -

We continue to monitor the EHV-1 outbreak in Europe, which has forced the cancellation of all FEI events on the European mainland in an effort to contain it. The outbreak, which began in Valencia, Spain, had claimed the lives of four horses as of March 1, and 84 on-site horses were also exhibiting clinical signs. The venue was hosting a show jumping competition at the time of the outbreak.

Wednesday morning, March 3, the FEI has released a further update on the EHV-1 outbreak in Europe, noting that 15 horses are currently being treated at external veterinary clinics in Valencia and Barcelona. Since the first fatalities at Valencia, two other horse deaths have been reported in Barcelona and Germany, bringing the total toll to six.

Also on Wednesday, the World Equestrian Center – Ocala reported that its management had been made aware of a case of EHV-1 in Ocala. The case was not reported on the grounds of the World Equestrian Center. At the time of this article’s publication, calls to the Florida Department of Agriculture to confirm details of this case had not been returned. A map (updated as cases are brought to the department’s attention or at the first of the month) of reportable equine diseases is maintained by the Department of Agriculture and can be found here.

Update 3:20 p.m. EST: EN has confirmed with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services that a single case of EHV-1 was reported on March 1 out of Marion County, where Ocala is located. A horse showing neurological symptoms is being treated at an isolated facility, according to a spokesperson.

The World Equestrian Center – Ocala also issued a travel restriction out of an abundance of caution Wednesday afternoon prohibiting ship-in horses or horses arriving from other venues such as the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington. US Equestrian has also acknowledged the case and will continue to monitor the situation, recommending the restriction of horses’ movements in the meantime.

EHV-1 cases have also been reported in Canada, with one key outbreak occurring in Quebec in February at Venturing Hills Equestrian Farm. A fundraising effort to assist this farm, which has seen two horses die and at least 18 infected, can be found here.

We will continue to provide updates on this situation as they become available. To view the latest biosecurity updates from the FEI, click here.

A US Equestrian press release outlining precautionary recommendations and compliance protocol reads as follows:

A recent outbreak of an aggressive strain of the neurological form of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) has resulted in the immediate cancellation of international events in 10 countries on the European mainland through March 28, 2021. The outbreak originated at a competition in Valencia, Spain, and is present in at least three other countries in Europe to date. There are no current EHV-1 outbreaks related to the Valencia competition evident in the U.S. at this time, but USEF is recommending members take important steps to protect their horses. USEF is working closely with competition organizers and veterinarians to ensure we are as prepared as possible for a potential outbreak in the U.S.

Below are some best practices you can implement immediately:

  • Review and ensure you are prepared for quick implementation of an isolation plan at a competition grounds and/or at your home farm or facility
  • Check your horse’s temperature twice daily and maintain a temperature log
  • Isolate horses at first signs of symptoms or illness and contact your vet immediately
  • Keep separate feed buckets, brushes, rags, and tack/equipment for each horse
  • Ask your veterinarian about appropriate cleaning solutions
  • Eliminate communal or shared water troughs and buckets
  • Practice hand washing in between handling horses
  • Maintain social distancing for horses; limit nose to nose contact with other horses at the ring
  • Ensure your horse is vaccinated for EHV (Rhinopneumonitis vaccine) in line with GR845

Please note that the vaccine does not protect against the neurological form of EHV, which is referred to as Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) but does reduce the clinical signs and shedding of the virus. Early identification and reporting of ill horses is critical in order to trace possible points of exposure and to aid in the prevention of further spread of the disease. The first 30 minutes following identification of a potentially infectious horse frequently determines the extent and scope of transmission and potential outbreak. You should contact your veterinarian immediately for testing if a horse begins to display any symptoms of EHV. Competition managers should also be notified if the horse is at a competition.

If you are aware of individuals who are not following proper reporting protocols, please contact Debbie Saliling, USEF Director of Compliance, at [email protected].

Maryland 5 Star Up to the Challenge Ahead of Rescheduled October Event

By on Mar 3, 2021 9:00 am -

An aerial view of the Fair Hill Special Event Zone. Photo courtesy of Maryland 5 Star.

The Maryland 5 Star, the newest five-star event – joining Kentucky, Badminton, Luhmühlen, Burghley, Pau, and Australia as just the seventh event at the level in the world – drew the unenviable short straw of being the new event in a year decimated by the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. Forced to pivot away from its grand launch originally scheduled for October of last year, the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill organizing team is now looking ahead to its rescheduled premiere this October 14-17 in Cecil County, Md.

Equipped with a team possessing a wealth of experience in event management both in and out of the equestrian world, the Maryland 5 Star aims to provide quality equestrian sport through the running of a CCI5*, the USEF CCI3*L National Championship, and the East Coast Young Event Horse Championships, encapsulating the sport from every angle.

As many events have experienced in the last twelve months, the process of pivoting to a closed venue or having to cancel altogether is a formidable one. When it became clear that last year’s event could not go forward, the team immediately set about ensuring the 2021 event would be the best it could be.

Event Manager for Marketing, Promotion, and Competition Management Kaleigh Collett explains: “It was inevitable that we would have to cancel last year. There was simply too much unknown going into October and with it being the inaugural event we wanted to present it in the best light we could, and we didn’t feel it would be the best in those circumstances. Having this extra year has given us some time to really focus and and fine-tune the event. We’re still trying to be cautiously optimistic and move forward as best we can.”

Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy. Photo by Abby Powell.

Current USEF protocol prohibits spectators at all licensed events through June of this year. With the potential for this rule to be extended into the fall, the team is looking at their revenue streams from a variety of angles.

“We are thinking about it in several ways – no spectators, limited spectators, higher percentage, and full capacity,” Kaleigh explained. “To say that we aren’t reliant on spectators wouldn’t be true; with any event it would be a huge revenue source, but our hope and plan is to run the competition in some way. Hopefully by early summer we’ll know more about a spectator population.”

To that end, the event is holding off on opening ticket sales at the moment, but will make them available should spectator protocol shift to allow a certain percentage of fans to attend. The event has a ticketing partner in place and will be ready to open ticket sales once they have more direction from the governing bodies.

Recognizing the importance of a quality streaming and digital approach, particularly given the evolution of sporting events in the wake of the pandemic, the organizing committee has also tapped the expertise of Connie Sawyer for Broadcast Production. Connie currently oversees television and streaming production, distribution, on-site logistics as well as the implementation and delivery of Longines rights and FEI Jumping World Cup™ Series and brand standards at all Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ North America Events.

Connie Sawyer. Photo: Maryland 5 Star

“(Connie) will be overseeing the live broadcast/live stream component, which we know even during COVID or post-COVID we can use to grow brand awareness for the event and as a way to enhance the overall viewership of the event,” Communications Director Chris Daley said. “Certainly live streaming and broadcast has become more and more important in the last year, so we want to make sure we’re putting proper focus on that element of our event.”

Also joining the leadership team is Director of Operations Dan Laufner, whose previous operational experience has spanned other sports such as professional tennis and NASCAR. “There will certainly be a learning curve to go through with the eventing competition side of things which I am really looking forward to,” Dan said via email. “For me, it’s more about applying overall event production best practices, my experience and success in overcoming unexpected challenges, working collectively with all vendors and key venue constituents, and bringing a fresh perspective/commercial innovations to provide the best and safest experience possible for all. As a reminder, we have a great partnership with Fair Hill International and one of the best Competition Directors in Mary Coldren whom I will work hand in hand to maximize the success of the competition.”

“We are thrilled to have Connie and Dan join our team because they will provide us with a very high-level of expertise within their particular areas,” said Jeff Newman, President and CEO of the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill, said in a recent press release. “I have known Dan for many years and worked closely with him on other major sporting events. He is someone we can lean on and trust to ensure logistics and operations run smoothly during our inaugural year.” Jeff added, “Connie will not only help us oversee and produce a high-quality broadcast and livestream for viewers, she brings so much added value with her deep event background and extensive relationships in equestrian sports.”

Dan Laufer. Photo: Maryland 5 Star.

With massive facility upgrades and additions being made to the historic Fair Hill acreage as well as the ongoing support of the newly formed Sport and Entertainment Corporation of Maryland’s (The Sport Corp.), the Maryland 5 Star promises to be the event of the fall season. We look forward to bringing you along for more sneak peeks at the facility and more previews of the competition to come as we inch closer to October.

Go Eventing.

Wednesday News & Notes from Haygain

By on Mar 3, 2021 12:01 am -

It’s funny, but I didn’t actually know that the Asian Games were a thing until about five years ago when a coach mentioned them to me. From that moment on, I was on a mission to learn as much about these Games as possible – after all, younger Sally spent hours on the internet trying to find traces of fellow Asian eventers. Now thanks to Instagram, it’s much easier to connect with other riders and follow their journeys as inspiration, and it continues to hold great importance that I do my part to lift these riders up in media so as to increase representation. After all, it’s a lot harder to be it when you can’t see it!

Annie Ho, who has represented Hong Kong in three Asian Games and two Asian Championships, is one such rider I’ve really enjoyed following. Like Yuxuan Su, Annie has had the opportunity to grow her skills thanks to support from the Hong Kong Jockey Club. I’m really intrigued by this model of development and investment – you can read more about this in my feature on Yuxuan Su here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

$50,000 Liftmaster Grand Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field: [Website] [Entry Status] [Course Preview] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Chattahoochee Hills H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Full Gallop Farm March H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Stabling] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Rocking Horse Winter III H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Sporting Days Farm March H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Southern Pines H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Volunteer]

Wednesday Reading List

Fresh podcast alert: catch up with Michele Arana, of In Stride Equestrian which I featured here in N&N a few weeks back, on this episode of the Life 100 Podcast.

SmartPak’s recent response to questions surrounding the fit of its new Piper Evolution breeches is a great example of a brand willing to own its role in inclusivity. Take a look at the conversation here.

Tune in on Wednesday, March 10 for a livestream interview between Eric Dierks and David O’Connor, presented by the Illinois Dressage and Combined Training Association.

COVID-19 claims another horse show victim, this time in New Zealand as the popular Horse of the Year Show has been abandoned for 2021.

Hot on Horse Nation: What’s it like to keep a horse in Alaska? HN contributor Allie Carlson gives us an inside look.

Ones to watch: Tommy Greengard and Joshuay MBF, who handily won their Preliminary division this past weekend at Twin Rivers. Tommy became a hay steamer when “Josh” developed an unusual condition, eosinophilic keratoconjunctivitis, that eventually resulted in his eye swelling completely shut. After ointments and antihistamines controlled the inflammation, Tommy turned to steamed hay.

Strides for Equality Equestrians provides an update on what it’s currently working on in its ongoing efforts to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion within the equestrian industry.

Wednesday Video Break:

Let’s get to know Jamaican eventer Lydia Heywood in this episode of Young Black Equestrians:

Perspective: Proposed MER Changes from an Adult Amateur’s Eyes

By on Mar 2, 2021 3:00 pm -

A number of riders have shared with us their opinions about a recently proposed rule change by the USEA concerning the increased number of MERs to move up to Preliminary, Intermediate and Advanced You can read the latest updates on this proposal here, where you’ll also find a link to a survey soliciting member feedback. Lois James is an adult amateur rider in Area VII. She grew up in Ireland, where she rode from a young age, participating in pony club and hunting. She rode at the FEI one- and two-star levels as a junior and young rider before moving to the United States. To read other Perspective pieces on this topic, click here.

Lois James and Whiskey Business. Photo by Stephen James.

Having reviewed the proposed rule changes regarding 10 MERS per level above Training I wanted to add my voice to the growing wave of concern across the country. I am an adult amateur in Area VII. I grew up in Ireland and competed at (former) CCI** as a young rider, then moved to the US thought that was the end of my competitive riding.

About 8 years ago I got back into eventing with a horse I co-owned with my trainer, and competed successfully at prelim in 2019. That horse was developed slowly and carefully (as is my trainer’s and my style) over about a five year period. We did 10 USEA events TOTAL, three of which were at Prelim, in which he placed every time. He was sold last year to a wonderful junior rider, who had (realistically) dreamed of representing Area IX at junior and maybe even young rider championships.

I can with complete confidence say that if these rule changes go through I will not compete above Training again. For many I know that one adult amateur not being able to qualify for Prelim is not a big deal. But for me it is. It’s a huge deal. Getting to Prelim in 2019 was for me the equivalent of a pro getting to a five-star. I know many adult amateurs and juniors who feel exactly the same.

The responses of “you just need to travel more” or “eventing is expensive” discriminate hugely between the different USEA Areas, and also between professionals and all the rest of us with competing commitments. That said, I imagine many professionals will be negatively affected by the proposed changes due to many of their clients no longer being able to progress.

I urge you to reconsider, especially given the push to make eventing more accessible, more diverse, and less elitist (progress which will be tanked by the proposed rule changes). I know that this is a dangerous sport. I know these proposed changes are well intended. But surely there are ways to promote horse and rider safety that do not permanently restrict so many of us to the lower levels of the sport we love.

Who Jumped It Best? Pine Top Advanced Edition

By on Mar 2, 2021 12:00 pm -

This edition of Who Jumped It Best? Takes us to Pine Top Farm in Thomson, Georgia. Advanced competitors stormed around Derek di Grazia’s beefy track on Saturday with an impressive 88% finishing without jump penalties.

Now it’s time for you, dear readers, to be the judge. Here’s a collection of the Advanced riders dropping into the lower frog pond at fence 19A. The last combination on course, this drop is followed by a skinny chevron out on the other side of the water.

Cast your vote in the poll at the bottom of this post for the combination who you think presents the best overall picture.

Pine Top Advanced H.T.: Website, Entry Status, Ride Times, Live Scores, EN’s Coverage

Mallory Hogan and Clarissa Purisima. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Cindy Anderson-Blank and Windchase Phoenix Star. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Doug Payne and Starr Witness. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Sydney Solomon and Early Review C. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Meaghan Marinovich Burdick & Riviera Lu. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Jenny Caras and Trendy Fernhill. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Sally Cousins and Truly Wiley. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Allison Springer and Business Ben. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Lillian Heard and CharmKing. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Use the Typeform poll below to cast your vote. Once you click Submit, you’ll be given a link to view current results.

Inside the Stable with the Aiken Showcase Stars: Emily Hamel & Corvett (‘Barry’)

By on Mar 2, 2021 9:00 am -

Emily Hamel and Corvett. Photo by Jenni Autry.

We’re in the final countdown to Liftmaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field, which takes place March 5-6 in Aiken, South Carolina! In previous editions of “Inside the Stable with the Aiken Showcase Stars” we caught up with Liz Halliday-Sharp and then Phillip Dutton, and now we’re turning the lens on Emily Hamel.

Emily will be contesting the Showcase with Corvett, known around the barn as “Barry,” a 14-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Corrido x Tina XII, by Clearway) owned by Black Flag Option, LLC. Emily is a head rider for Phillip Dutton and we’ve also gotten to know her better through her podcast, The Whole Equestrian, which bridges the gap between riding and wellness. Emily and Barry are a well-established pair, and in this video Emily shares with us her goals for the season (spoiler alert: Kentucky!) as well as some fun facts about her horse.

Now in its third year, Liftmaster Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field is dedicated to putting on a world-class event. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 event won’t be open to spectators per USEF Guidelines but WILL be livestream broadcast by Horse & Country. The competition will be held Friday, March 5 (dressage and show jumping) through Saturday, March 6 (cross country). EN will be bringing you all the latest.

Learn more about the event here!

Annie Dewitt is a writer, eventer and literary agent at The Shipman Agency. Her debut novel WHITE NIGHTS IN SPLIT TOWN CITY now appears in several languages. Annie trains at True Prospect Farm in Cochranville, PA, with Phillip Dutton and Ryan Wood. She is a passionate Retired Racehorse advocate who has volunteered at The Rosemary Horse Farm Sanctuary in the Catskills. Annie is the happy horse mother to her 5-year old OTTB Confidence Level and her current eventing partner-in-crime, Offshore Cooley. Contact: [email protected]

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feeds

By on Mar 2, 2021 12:01 am -

Photo courtesy of Saddle Up and Read.

Happy National Read Across American Day! Books are such a powerful tool and no one knows that better than Caitlin Gooch, the founder of Saddle Up and Read. Shocked at her home sate of North Carolina’s abysmal literacy rates, Caitlin set out to encourage more kids to read. First she teamed up with a local library where she offered a day a her father’s horse farm as a prize for checking out three or more books.

This project, which earned 501(c)(3) in 2019, also champions representation of minorities in equestrian media. With the help of the community and supporters around the country, SUAR has created a library of books that feature Black equestrians.

SUAR accepts monetary donations and book donations. Books featuring diverse characters or horses are accepted and SUAR has an Amazon wishlist which can be found here. Monetary donations can be made through saddleupandread.org – simply click the donate button and it’ll take you to PayPal. They’re also running a GoFundMe. Those based near Wendell, NC who wish to volunteer can email Caitlin Gooch at [email protected] to coordinate.

Events Opening This Week: Unionville April 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.

Events Closing This Week: Carolina International CCI and H.T., Ocala Winter II H.T., Pine Top Spring H.T., Southern Arizona Spring H.T.

Tuesday News:

Badminton Horse Trials has been canceled. After coordinating with local public health officials, the organizers determined that, “due to the scale and location of the horse trials, it is not possible to secure the surrounding area in the proximity of the event site.” [Badminton Horse Trials 2021 cancelled: ‘Everyone is desperately disappointed’]

Cancellations continue as FEI has pulled the plug on International events in 10 countries due to an EHV-1 outbreak. The outbreak, which originated in Spain, has already proved deadly and is the most serious strain seen in decades. The event cancellation has extended through March 28th. [FEI Cancels European Mainland Events Due to EHV-1 Outbreak]

Mark your calendars! Top female equestrian athletes are sitting down in International Women’s Day, to discuss participating in the only Olympic sports where men and women compete alongside one another.  The panel will talk about the challenges, benefits and idiosyncrasies that these leading female show jumpers navigate in this elegant, demanding and uniquely gender neutral sport. Featuring riders such as Laura Kraut and Georgina Bloomberg, the panel is to feature Women’s Sports Foundation. [Women in Show Jumping: A Panel in Honor of International Women’s Day]

Tuesday Video: Donna Smith was the first rider on a CCI4* course in 2021 Matamata Horse Trials in New Zealand.

Our first rider is out on course in the Randlab Pty Ltd 4*. Donna Smith through the Dunstan Splash with ease.

Posted by Matamata Equestrian Group on Saturday, February 20, 2021

FEI Cancels All Competition on European Mainland Through 3/28 Due to EHV-1 Outbreak

By on Mar 1, 2021 5:05 pm -

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The FEI has cancelled international events in 10 countries on the European mainland with immediate effect and until 28 March 2021 due to the rapid evolution of a very aggressive strain of the neurological form of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1), which originated in Valencia (ESP) and has already resulted in related outbreaks in at least three other countries in Europe.

This decision applies to all FEI disciplines, but in order to prevent huge numbers of horses simultaneously departing the Jumping Tours on the Iberian Peninsula, in Italy and Belgium that have been ongoing for a number of weeks, these specific Tours will be allowed to continue as individual “bubbles” on the condition that absolutely no new horses are allowed to enter the venues and no positive cases of EHV-1 are confirmed.

The Jumping Tour venues in Vejer de la Frontera (ESP), Vilamoura (POR), San Giovanni in Marignano (ITA) and Gorla Minore (ITA) will have stringent biosecurity protocols in place and additional FEI Veterinary Delegates onsite. Horses will only be permitted to leave these venues when they are in possession of an official health certificate from the local Veterinary Authorities. Any horses leaving these venues without this documentation will be blocked on the FEI Database. It is also illegal to transport a horse without an official health certificate.

Oliva Nova (ESP) had already advised the FEI this afternoon that it has decided to cancel the rest of its scheduled competitions in the Mediterranean Equestrian Tour III. Opglabbeek (BEL) has also informed the FEI that it has cancelled its events in March.

A number of countries, including France, have already cancelled all their events to minimise transmission of the virus.

The decision, which covers events in France, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Italy, Austria, Poland, Netherlands, Germany and Slovakia, has been made in accordance with FEI General Regulations Article 112.3, which state: The Secretary General shall have the authority to remove any Competition and/or Event from the Calendar if justified circumstances relating to a Competition or the Event are established.

“This was not an easy decision to block events in mainland Europe, particularly after the major disruption to the FEI Calendar caused by the Covid-19 pandemic”, FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said, “but this EHV-1 outbreak is probably the most serious we have had in Europe for many decades and our decision is based on clearly identified epidemiological risk factors.

“This strain of EHV-1 is particularly aggressive and has already caused equine fatalities and a very large number of severe clinical cases. We need to keep our horses safe.

“We are also aware that a large number of horses left the venue in Valencia without an official health certificate, meaning they had an unknown health status. Some horses were already sick, and the risk of transmission from these horses is a major concern.

“Cancelling these competitions in mainland Europe, with the exception of the ongoing Jumping Tours in the Iberian Peninsula and Italy, limits the number of horses travelling internationally and therefore reduces the likelihood of this very serious virus being transmitted on an increasingly wider scale. We also strongly recommend that the affected member Federations should also cancel their national events.

“We are very conscious of the fact that this is a very stressful and distressing time, and that this is potentially hugely disruptive for those athletes aiming for their Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MERs) or confirmation results for Tokyo, but we are looking at ways to alleviate that in order to assist athlete/horse combinations in getting their MERs or confirmation results once the events in mainland Europe are allowed to resume.”

The FEI is conscious that some athletes have already arrived on competition venues or are en route, and is directly contacting all impacted athletes entered in Events between now and 28 March 2021.

Previous FEI updates since the FEI was first notified of the EHV-1 outbreak on 20 February are available here.

WHAT IS EHV-1?
Equine herpesvirus type 1, or rhinopneumonia, is a relatively common respiratory condition that’s spread through horse-to-horse contact. But this doesn’t necessary mean the horses need to be in close enough proximity to touch noses – aerosol droplets or nasal discharge can contaminate surfaces, such as grooming tools, buckets, and even clothing and hands, spreading the virus quickly and efficiently among a number of horses. For this reason, it can become hard to control very swiftly – particularly as carriers may not show any symptoms while actively spreading the virus over its 2–10 day incubation period.
Although EHV-1 can lead to abortion in pregnant mares or ongoing respiratory issues, it’s a largely innocuous virus that an enormous amount of horses will come into contact with at some point or another. So what makes this outbreak different? Simple: it’s the progression into a neurological form of the disease, known as Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy, or EHM. This progression happens when EHV-1 progresses into the bloodstream, causing inflammation in the microvasculature. This, in turn, can restrict blood flow to areas of the spinal cord, leading to neurologic disease.
EHM is a very rare and incurable form of EHV-1, which can show up in a multitude of ways: some horses may experience a biphasic fever, which has two ‘spikes’, a sudden lack of coordination, limb weakness, loss of balance and inability to stand normally, inability to urinate effectively, or depression. Though there’s no cure, EHM-positive horses can be administered NSAIDs such as bute or banamine to reduce fever and pain. Some horses do go on to recover from EHM – often with lingering neurological deficits – but the fatality rate is high at 30%.
Though there’s no vaccine for EHM, it’s most often caused by EHV-1, so ensuring your horses’ vaccinations are up to date is the most effective way of protecting them against an outbreak. Implementing a robust quarantine strategy when introducing a new horse to your property, too, is essential: keep the new horse separate for ten to fourteen days, limiting the number of people who have access to it and ensuring that all tools and clothing are thoroughly disinfected, and hands washed, before coming into contact with another horse.

Weekend Winners: Pine Top, Three Lakes, Twin Rivers

By on Mar 1, 2021 3:00 pm -

We’ve got plenty of results to cover today, so let’s jump right into it! Eventing action was in full swing in Georgia, Florida, and California this weekend. Across all events, it was Phillip Dutton and Quasi Cool who brought home the lowest finishing score of the weekend, winning the Open Intermediate B at Pine Top on a 21.9. Of course, Phillip also neatly collected another incredible score aboard Carlchen in the Advanced B, earning a 15.0 from judge Janis Linnan in the Advanced B. Both Quasi Cool and Carlchen are owned by Caroline Moran. Stay tuned later this afternoon for video of Phillip’s test on Carlchen.

Pine Top Advanced H.T.: [Website] [Final Scores] [EN’s Advanced Coverage] [Show Photographer]

Advanced A: Jenny Caras and Trendy Fernhill (34.5)
Advanced B: Phillip Dutton and Carlchen (34.2)
Open Intermediate A: Daniel Clasing and MW Gangster’s Game (31.1)
Open Intermediate B: Phillip Dutton and Quasi Cool (21.9)
Intermediate Horse: Tim Bourke and Lennard (33.2)
Intermediate Rider: Isabelle Bosley and Night Quality (40.9)
Open Preliminary A: Erin Kanara and Warren LVSZ (25.9)
Open Preliminary B: Tim Bourke and Flying Quality (29.1)
Open Preliminary C: Lillian Heard and Cooley Gentleman (25.7)
Preliminary Rider: Sydney Shinn and Nyconn Cat (35.5)
Jr/YR Preliminary: Jack Curtis and Luska Candy Clover (28.1)
Preliminary/Training: Paige Drury and Fernhill 13 (32.4)
Open Training A: Julie Wolfert and Namibia (24.5)
Open Training B: Waylon Roberts and Fernhill IKandy (23.3)
Sr. Training: Carrie Stryker and Just For Today (32.8)
Jr. Training: Marissa Griffin and Conguistador (27.4)
Training/Novice: Deborah McWhirter and FE Show Business (32.1)
Open Novice A: Annie Goodwin and Global Halcyon (22.4)
Open Novice B: Bennett Camp-Crowder and Cooley Compass (26.7)
Novice Rider: Mary Carol Harsch and Foster’s Bold Favorite (27.1)

Three Lakes Winter II H.T.: [Website] [Final Scores] [Show Photographer]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Sarah Bowman and Atlus Louvo (45.0)
Open Preliminary A: Matthew Bryner and Nile Gold (30.9)
Open Preliminary B: Liz Halliday-Sharp and Shanroe Cooley (30.9)
Preliminary Rider: Carson Crowell and Levity (32.8)
Open Training A: Holly Jacks-Smither and Willbrook Brown Yeats (32.7)
Open Training B: Lauren Nicholson and Hindine (26.6)
Open Training C: Lauren Nicholson and I’ll Have Another (24.6)
Training Rider A: Teah Wilson and Junior Mint (32.1)
Training Rider B: Kristin Osley and King of Beer (40.5)
Open Novice A: Kimmy Cecere and Pappy Van Winkle (27.9)
Open Novice B: Joe Meyer and Ardeo Harlequin (24.1)
Novice Rider A: Amanda Smith and Tug of War (32.1)
Novice Rider B: Mim Strote and England Calling (30.2)
Open Beginner Novice: Cemone Rovira and Mr. Sandman (31.3)
Beginner Novice Rider: Eleanor Winter and Giant Frosty (36.8)

Twin Rivers Winter H.T.: [Website] [Final Scores] [EN’s Advanced Report] [Show Photographer]

Advanced: Helen Alliston and Ebay (31.7)
Open Intermediate: James Alliston and RevitaVet Elijah (33.6)
Open Preliminary: Tommy Greengard and Joshuay MBF (24.5)
Preliminary Rider: Alexis Larson and PL Diamond’s Inspiration (33.3)
Jr. Training Rider: Shelby Murray and Reverie GWF (24.1)
Open Training: Jordan Linstedt and Lovely Lola (26.4)
Sr. Training Rider: Emily Schmitz and Fernhill Blueprint (29.3)
Training Horse: Jennifer McFall and Hallelujah DF (33.1)
Jr. Novice Rider A: Molly Duda and Lilly (26.7)
Jr. Novice Rider B: Olivia Doman and London Calling OHF (26.7)
Novice Amateur: Leah Forquer and Oakley’s Hunt SE (31.7)
Novice Horse: Chloe Smyth and BBC (29.1)
Open Novice: Tommy Greengard and Leonardo Diterma (25.7)
Sr. Novice Rider: Faith Dalessandro and Spurs and Stilettos (23.8)
Jr. Beginner Novice: Avonlea Wang and Black Gold (25.8)
Open Beginner Novice: Nick Cwick and Livius (27.5)
Sr. Beginner Novice: Kira De Torres and The Great Gatsby (34.2)
Introductory: Toora Nolan and Sir Elliot (31.7)

🦖🦖🦖🌟🌟🌟🦖🦖🦖
T-Rex was a baller around his first Advanced!!
Cheers 🍻 with a 🦖 beer!!! How was I so lucky to find that!? 🤣🤣

Posted by Andrea Baxter on Saturday, February 27, 2021