Classic Eventing Nation

This Year’s Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover Will Be the Biggest Yet

By on Feb 16, 2021 12:00 pm -

The Makeover Marketplace allows buyers to watch, try, vet and buy in one location in one weekend. Photo by Giulia Garcia.

The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) welcomes today 484 accepted applications, representing 480 unique trainers and teams, to the 2021 class of the Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, presented by Thoroughbred Charities of America. The Thoroughbred Makeover is the world’s largest and most lucrative retraining competition for ex-racehorses, and the 2021 class combined with 322 trainers from the postponed 2020 competition year will make this the biggest Makeover yet.

The Thoroughbred Makeover is a retraining competition open to professionals, junior, amateurs and teams, competing side-by-side. Ten disciplines of competition are offered, including barrel racing, competitive trail, dressage, eventing, field hunter, polo, ranch work, show hunter, show jumper, and freestyle (a free-form discipline to demonstrate skills of the trainer’s choice). Horses can compete in one or two of those disciplines.

Horses from each competition year will compete in separate preliminary rounds, and the five top-placed horses in each discipline after preliminary competition will return for the Finale where they will compete once more to determine final placings. New for this year (intended to be part of the 2020 Makeover), a panel consisting of all the judges from the ten disciplines will determine the overall Thoroughbred Makeover Champion in each competition year, selecting the best-trained horse from the ten discipline winners. A popular vote placed by spectators watching both in-person and online via live stream will determine a People’s Choice winner in each competition year, who wins the right to direct a donation to an equine charity of their choosing.

2019 Thoroughbred Makeover Champion Cowboy Swagger, trained by Fallon Taylor. Photo by CanterClix.

“After the pandemic forced the cancelation of the 2020 Thoroughbred Makeover, it was important to us to preserve the opportunity for our 2020 class to compete, and thanks to so many loyal sponsors and donors from the racing, breeding and sport horse worlds, we are going to be putting on the largest retraining competition in history,” said RRP executive director Jen Roytz.

Accepted trainers are encouraged to register their horses at TBMakeover.org as soon as they acquire them. Horse registration closes on July 31, but registration upon acquisition allows the RRP to better gather data on horses undergoing the Makeover process.

The application process for the 2021 Thoroughbred Makeover required trainers to demonstrate their skills and expertise through competition results, videos and references, as well as a letter from a vet stating that that the applicant has the necessary skills and knowledge to appropriately care for a horse transitioning off the track. The RRP’s selection committee took into consideration both candidates’ ability to effectively retrain an off-track Thoroughbred and candidates’ commitment to the RRP’s mission of promoting off-track Thoroughbreds in second careers.

“We’re always humbled by the interest we receive from applicants each year, but with hundreds of 2020 entries still in play and known logistical challenges — move-in, daylight hours, running two Finales, and more — the application committee had the tough task of narrowing down the 2021 entry pool to meet our schedule capacity,” said RRP managing director Kirsten Green. “The primary goal of the Makeover is to showcase Thoroughbreds at their very best, so this means we’re looking for trainers whose application demonstrates that they’re equipped to meet that goal on the timeline provided.”

The Makeover has historically attracted a broad cross-section of the horse industry, represented by junior, amateur and professional equestrians, as well as teams. The great equalizer at the Makeover are the horses: eligible Thoroughbreds competing in 2021 will all come from similar backgrounds, with no more than 10 months of retraining for a second career and all having raced or trained to race within the past two years.

Warlander and Haylie after their final show jumping round at the Makeover. Photo by Canter Clix.

This format allows trainers in all categories to compete side-by-side on equal footing. Juniors and amateurs routinely enjoy great success at the Makeover and have earned many top-five finishes; the 2017 Thoroughbred Makeover Champion Old Tavern was trained by junior Charlie Caldwell.

“Driving demand for Thoroughbreds after racing is a critical aspect of aftercare, and the Retired Racehorse Project’s Thoroughbred Makeover is central to that mission,” says Erin Crady, executive director of TCA. “We believe in the importance of that mission and are thrilled to support the RRP as it prepares for the biggest Makeover in its history.”

Accepted trainers for 2021 include Becky Huestis, assistant rider and manager for John Madden Sales; Darby Mazzarisi, champion hunter trainer; and Natalie (Voss) Nevills, two-time Eclipse Award-winning turf writer for Paulick Report. They join a diverse class of trainers hailing from 46 states and four Canadian provinces. Trainers range in age from 11 (will be 12 at the time of the Makeover as per rules) to 74.

Trainers for the 2021 class have signed up to bring a total of 521 horses. Combined with the declared horses from the 2020 competition year, a total of 953 horses will participate in the Makeover process this year. The full list of trainers accepted for the 2021 Thoroughbred Makeover can be found at the event website.

With the uncertainty of training green horses, the length of time between acceptance of trainers and Final Entry, and the fact that some horses sell before the Makeover, the RRP is once again offering a wait list. Individuals who missed the initial round of applications are welcome to apply to the wait list and can do so by contacting [email protected]. The wait list does not guarantee final entry into the competition, but does widen the impact of the Makeover and helps more horses transition to second careers.

Photo courtesy of Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover.

For riders seeking a well-started off-track Thoroughbred for competition or pleasure, the ASPCA Makeover Marketplace will return in 2021, offering buyers the unique opportunity to watch a horse compete, trial-ride, and complete a pre-purchase exam all in one location. Over 100 horses are expected to be entered in the Marketplace from both competition years.

In addition to a weekend of Thoroughbred competition and celebration of what makes the off-track Thoroughbred great, the Makeover also offers ample opportunity for education for both trainers and the public: educational seminars and panel discussion will take place on Friday, October 15, as well as the Makeover Master Class, a retraining clinic for recently-retired racehorses. Structured similarly to popular colt-starting competitions but without the competitive aspect, the Makeover Master Class offers spectators the opportunity to watch experienced off-track Thoroughbred trainers assess a prospect’s conformation and movement, as well as demonstrate their process for initial training and first rides. A vendor fair provides plenty of shopping opportunities as well!

The Thoroughbred Makeover is the flagship event for the RRP, a 501(c)3 non-profit committed to increasing the demand for and value of Thoroughbreds in their careers after racing. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for the 2021 Thoroughbred Makeover.

Thoroughbred Makeover fast facts:

▪ The 2021 competition is open to any Thoroughbred that raced or had a published work after July 1, 2019 and did not start retraining for a second career before December 1, 2020
▪ Trainers indicate a primary (and optional secondary) discipline on their applications, but are free to change disciplines as the competition approaches and they learn their horses’ strengths. A horse can compete in up to two disciplines, and a trainer can compete a maximum of two horses in a single competition year.
▪ Trainers do not need to have obtained the horse they intend to compete at the time of their application. Some trainers have already obtained their Thoroughbred Makeover mounts, but many are still searching. Trainers may begin registering their horses today, but have through July 31 to complete horse registration
▪ Participation in the Thoroughbred Makeover Marketplace sale is entirely voluntary, but many trainers take advantage of the extra exposure to market their prospects. All sales are private contracts between individual trainers and buyers; the RRP is not involved and receives no commissions

US Equestrian Issues Update on Licensing of 2021 Unionville Event

By on Feb 16, 2021 9:00 am -

Photo by Eventing Nation.

US Equestrian has issued an update regarding the 2021 licensing status for the eventing venue in Unionville, Pennsylvania in the wake of controversy regarding its name last year. Bill Moroney, US Equestrian’s Chief Executive Officer, shared the following statement with EN on Monday, Feb. 15. The venue is confirmed to host national horse trials on April 17-19, May 8 and June 5; its international event on Sept. 15-19 is listed as “Pending USEF Approval” as of Feb. 16, 2021.

“The USEF Board is committed to our comprehensive US Equestrian Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan, which focuses on the expansion of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in our sport and the implementation of new strategies to bring the joy of horse sports to everyone. Given the focus and commitment to our DEI plan, we strongly encourage all involved in equestrian sport to remain aware and sensitive to the fact that words matter. We encourage all USEF competition organizers and members to review the purpose and accompanying strategies outlined in the US Equestrian Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Plan and the impact of the use of offensive words and phrases, but decisions regarding venue and competition names are ultimately at the discretion and the responsibility of individual organizers.”

US Equestrian will offer a new Community Conversations series dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), beginning on Monday, February 22, from 5-6:30 p.m with a session on “Horses in Black Communities.” Anyone interested is invited to register and submit questions in advance for the panelists.

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feeds

By on Feb 16, 2021 12:01 am -

So many incredible people deserve shoutouts after a successful horse trial, but today lets give a round of applause to these folks. Emily Holmes spearheaded Ocala Winter I which included managing a 600+ entry circus. She is an absolute superstar. This weekend also saw some first time volunteers, Zach Brandt and Audrie Stanka both kindly spent time volunteering in addition to competing to ensure the event could continue smoothly. Well done, y’all!

National Holiday: Fat Tuesday

Events Opening This Week: The Fork at TIEC, Rocking Horse Spring H.T., Pine Hill Spring H.T.

Events Closing This Week: Southern Pines H.T., Full Gallop Farm March H.T., Rocking Horse Winter III H.T., Sporting Days Farm March H.T. II, Chattahoochee Hills H.T.

Tuesday News: 

Japan’s Health Ministry has officially approved Pfizer Inc’s COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccinations will begin next week for healthcare workers as the country is still under a state of emergency as a third wave hit the county late last year. The government hopes to secure enough supplies for the entire population, an estimated 126 million people, by “mid-year” as we move closer to the Olympic Games. [Japan Health Ministry says it has approved Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine]

Headed to Bromont this year? Canada will now require negative COVID-19 test results in order to cross the border. Tests must have been taken within three days, and individuals would then be required to quarantine for 14 days once in the country. [New rules requiring a negative COVID-19 test at Canadian border now in effect]

Where does your entry fee go? Cost breakdowns for running an event can be overwhelming and the costs associating with hosting an event are probably more than you think. [The Entry Fee is Only the Beginning: Part One]

Things to ponder today: Can you be a good rider if you aren’t a good horseman? [From The Magazine: Do Riders Need To Be Horsemen?]

One of the best, and most difficult, parts of riding is the partnership with another creature. This is no bicycle you can put back in the garage when you’re finished with it, and that comes with a great deal of responsibility. [My Message for Fellow Young Equestrians: Horses Are Not Machines]

Tuesday Video: Learn how to best cool out an unclipped horse.

Monday Video: A Greenie’s First Cross Country School

By on Feb 15, 2021 5:30 pm -

From formerly wild Mustangs to off-the-track Thoroughbreds and lots in between, five-star eventer Elisa Wallace knows a thing or two about introducing a green horse to jumping. She recently took one of her newest OTTB prospect, I Reckon So a.k.a. Ricky, a 2014 gelding (Redeemed – Thrilled N Delighted, by Friendly Lover for his first cross country school. From the first steps into a water complex, through refusals at spooky fences, to Ricky’s first look at a ditch, Elisa walks us through the learning processes and the successes of their excursion.

Mindful Monday: ‘How Can I Get Out of This Funk?’

By on Feb 15, 2021 3:30 pm -

We recently worked with mental health and wellness coach Sarah Carlan, MSW, on a column addressing common mental health hurdles eventers often face. We’re pleased to bring Sarah back as a columnist here on EN, and we invite you to submit your mental health questions for a future edition. Please email [email protected] to submit your question – you may remain anonymous if you wish. If you’d like more from Sarah, join EN on Patreon and take part in a candid video Q&A with Sally Spickard and Sarah Carlan this Thursday, February 18, at 6 p.m. EST. This event is free and open to EN Patrons only – click here to learn more about Patreon.

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Q: It seems like I can’t seem to juggle all of my responsibilities – work, riding, kids, school, myself, friends – with much success. I always feel like something is being neglected, and meanwhile my riding goals seem to be impossible to achieve. How can I get out of this funk and feel more effective?

Horse people are always juggling so many balls – work, riding, kids, etc. How can we possibly do it all and not feel like we are falling short on one or all fronts? Here are a few things to try:

Look at the mountains not the valleys.

I know that on the outside it looks like everyone else has it together, but they don’t. We are all falling apart in our own special way and are trying like hell not to let other people notice. Most of the time,  however, we are only falling short of our own expectations. In order to “make it”, (and by “make it”, I mean manage to get yourself and your horse to a few shows a year in one piece) in our sport you need to be driven. You need to have what it takes to push yourself a little harder than the average.

With drive can also come a dash of perfectionism: “If it’s not done well, then I’m failing”. When we see the world through this lens we will always see the things we are not doing well and miss the things we are doing well. Our brain is designed to notice the mistakes so that we can correct them; this is called Negative Attribution Effect. If it wasn’t wired that way, we would trip over the same door jamb every time we walked in a room. However, sometimes we need to rewire our brain so it can help us out. At the end of the day, try to practice recounting what you did accomplish rather than what you didn’t accomplish. You will be amazed by what you got done!

Adjust your expectations.

Next try to right-size your to do list so that it reflects what you can actually do. If you set a jump for your horse and he knocks it down every time, we would think of ourselves as cruel if we didn’t adjust something. Maybe we lower the height, give him a better preparation, or even check to see if our saddle is fitting well. How come we don’t do that for ourselves?

If, at the end of every day, we feel like we have dropped a ball (or many), maybe we need to adjust something (or a few things). Maybe we need to ask for help with things around the house, or be satisfied with store-bought treats for our kids’ classroom birthdays, or maybe tonight is takeout night or breakfast for dinner. Each of us has something that we push ourselves to do, and if we gave it up no one would die. So find a way to lower the bar for yourself. Everyone will be happier.

Treat yourself like your own best friend.

Have compassion for yourself when you inevitably fall short. We are human beings and therefore it is inevitable that we will fail, but when we do we have a choice about how we treat ourselves. If a friend came to us and said, “I am having such a hard time fitting everything in and I just forgot about a deadline at work”, would we tell her she was stupid and lazy, or would we reassure her that she is working her butt off and will recover from this mistake? When we do treat ourselves with compassion we have the energy and motivation to do better next time, but when we beat ourselves up we are much less likely to make the necessary change to improve.

Find a way to protect your riding time.

For many of us, finding the time to ride without interruption seems like a pie-in-the-sky dream. We are squeezing it in between work, kid pickup, and dinner, and so the littlest upset could derail the day and force us to cancel on our horse. When my kids were younger I would put them down for naps in the tack-room and then prop the monitor up in the window so I could see the lights moving when they woke up. It gave me the time to ride, but I was always distracted, and if they didn’t want to nap that day I was out of luck. I had a choice – I could seriously lower my expectations for my riding goals, (ie., if I get to W/T/C for 10-20 min 3 times a week I am a super star) or I could learn to carve out protected time. I started scheduling riding on my calendar like I would a work meeting and do all the same things to protect the time. For some people it means finding child-care; for others it means putting their email on auto-reply – but plan it and protect it, because you and your horse deserve it.

British 5* Eventer and Mental Health Awareness Advocate Matthew Wright Dies at 38

By on Feb 15, 2021 12:53 pm -

Matthew Wright and DHI Paparazzi. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We’re deeply saddened to report the death of British eventer Matthew Wright at the age of 38. His passing was announced in a statement on his official Facebook page today (February 15), which reads: “The horse world is a small and close community and we are aware that people are already starting to hear the sad news about Matthew. It is with great sadness that we have to confirm that this is true. Matthew has always been open with everyone about his own battles with mental health and has worked hard to support others through their own. Please could we ask that you respect the family’s privacy and give us the opportunity to grieve at this difficult time.”

Matthew has worn many hats within the eventing world: as a competitor, he represented Great Britain at the Junior, Young Rider, and Senior levels, taking a Young Rider silver medal in 2002 aboard Park Pilot, who would go on to be his first Senior mount. He was a familiar face at five-star, too, making his level debut at Burghley when he was eighteen and going on to compete at the event a further five times and at Badminton ten times.

In 2012, a testicular cancer diagnosis sent his world into a rapid tailspin, and his arduous fight against – and eventual recovery from – the disease became a beacon of hope for those with similar diagnoses. Following his all-clear, Matthew contested a charity race in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, and also enjoyed sharing his remarkable cooking skills on the programme Come Dine with Me.

Beyond his competitive pursuits, Matthew also took a great interest in sport horse breeding, standing four stallions at Caunton Manor Stud, the Nottinghamshire farm he shared with his wife, Victoria, and their children.

Most recently, he’s become an outspoken figurehead for increased mental health awareness in the equestrian world, documenting his own ups and downs with a remarkable frankness that has seen many riders follow suit.

And so, in the wake of Matthew’s tragic passing, it’s important that we continue to speak openly about mental health – a cause he championed wholeheartedly. His Riders Minds was established as a support system for anyone in the equestrian world who is feeling the struggle of a heavy emotional burden, and provides different levels of care – from self-care tips to 24/7 free hotlines – to anyone who needs help. Helmed by professionals and designed to accommodate the unique nuances of life with horses, it’s an excellent resource to keep bookmarked, even if you don’t think you’ll ever need it.

Though mental health awareness has come a long way over the last few years, helped enormously by efforts such as Matthew’s, it’s an unavoidable fact that the equestrian world glamourises and promotes ‘toughness’ and fortitude above almost all things. But just as ignoring a physical injury and climbing aboard your horse with gritted teeth can lead to long term complications, quashing emotions in fear of looking weak isn’t a functional long-term strategy. Whether you turn to a friend, family member, barn owner or trainer, online forum, or one of the many incredible round-the-clock support groups and hotlines available, speaking up about feeling down is one of the smartest and bravest things you’ll ever do – and you don’t have to wait until you feel as though you’ve hit rock bottom.

All of us at Team EN send our deepest sympathies to Matthew’s family, friends, and connections.

 

UK-based support:

Riders Minds: 0300 102 1540/ridersminds.org (24/7)

Samaritans: 116 123/[email protected] (24/7)

MIND: 0300 123 3393 to call, or text 86463 (9.00–18.00 Monday to Friday, except bank holidays)

SANEline: 0300 304 7000 (16.30–10.30 daily)

Papyrus HOPELINE (for un

der 35s): 0800 068 4141/[email protected] (10.00–22.00 weekdays; 14.00–22.00 weekends)

The Mix (for under 25s): 0808 808 4994 (14.00 – 23.00, Sunday – Friday)

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM – for those identifying as male): 0800 585 858 (17.00–00.00 daily)

Switchboard (for LGBTQ+ callers): 0300 330 0630/[email protected] (10.00–22.00 daily)

C.A.L.L. (for callers in Wales): 0800 132 737 (24/7)

SHOUT crisis line: text SHOUT to 85258 

 

US-based support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) to be directed to a crisis centre closest to you

National Hopeline: Call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) to speak to a crisis counsellor

The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ youth): 1-866-4-U-TREVOR (1-866-488-7386)

Crisis Text Line – Text NAMI to 741-741 to connect with a trained crisis counsellor to receive free, 24/7 crisis support via text message

 

Canada-based support: 

Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 1-833-456-4566 (24/7) or text 45645 (4 pm to 12 am ET)

Kids Help Phone (for 5–29 year olds): 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free) or text CONNECT to 686868

Hope for Wellness help line (for indigenous people in need of crisis support): 1-855-242-3310 (toll-free) or connect to the online Hope for Wellness chat

Transgender Crisis Line: 1-877-330-6366

Military Mental Health hotline: 1-800-268-7708

 

 

Weekend Winners: Fresno, Full Gallop, Ocala, Pine Top

By on Feb 15, 2021 10:00 am -

We’ve got lots to cover in our recap from a very busy weekend of eventing! Both coasts got in on the eventing action this weekend, with competitors heading out of the startbox in northern California, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. A very wet weekend in Florida made for some cool photos, but it wasn’t enough to stop the sheer hundreds of competitors from toughing it out.

Our lowest score this weekend was earned by Mia Brown and Duke HW, who won their Junior Novice division at Fresno on a 20.5. This is a personal best finishing score for this pair, whose previous record was a 22.5 in 2020. Honorably mentioned this weekend are Jennifer McFall and Stoneman (Open Preliminary, Fresno – 20.8) – Jennifer also capped off a great weekend with a win in the Training Horse aboard Hallelujah DF on a score of 24.3. Also getting a shout-out today is Will Faudree, who pulled off a 1-2-3 finish at Pine Top in the Advanced/Intermediate aboard Mama’s Magic Way, FRH Ramona, and PFun, respectively. Congratulations to all!

Fresno County Horse Park H.T.: Final Results

Open Intermediate: Helen Alliston and Ebay (28.6)
Open Preliminary: Jennifer McFall and Stoneman (20.8)
Preliminary Rider: Sydney Johnson and Ols Take Time (32.8)
Open Training: Erin Grandia and Indio BMW (22.6)
Training Horse: Jennifer McFall and Hallelujah DF (24.3)
Training Rider – Jr.: Grace Wechser and Raskadero (33.8)
Training Rider – Sr.: Kate Helffrich and Coquette (26.9)
Novice Horse: Asia Vedder and Get Cheeky (22.4)
Novice Rider – Jr.: Mia Brown and Duke HW (20.5)
Novice Rider – Sr.: Megan Robinson and Daisy (23.8)
Open Novice: Tommy Greengard and Leonardo Diterma (26.0)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Hailey Bermingham and Ratrod (33.1)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Dannielle Hott and Siberian Storm (21.8)
Open Beginner Novice: Grace Walker Alonzi and Jumara MVS (25.6)
Open Introductory: Amanda Blake and Danny California (25.3)

Full Gallop Farm H.T.: Final Results

Preliminary: Sallie Johnson and Fernhill DiCaprio (43.1)
Training A: Nilson Da Silva and Go Global (29.1)
Training B: Alexander Conrad and Ricky (23.7)
Novice A: Hanna Grace Johnson and Reenmore Riley (25.5)
Novice B: Katherine Windham and All Aboard (22.4)
Novice C: Sidnee Milner and My Valentine (22.1)
Training/Novice: Elizabeth Bortuzzo and Theodore Cornet Obolensky (31.9)
Beginner Novice A: Livy Muntz and FGF DollarsforPennies (28.6)
Beginner Novice B: Samantha Schwartz and Rumble Fish (31.1)
Starter: Jake Tessler and Katano (40.7)

Ocala Winter I H.T.: Final Results

Advanced CT: Leslie Law and First Class (24.5)
Advanced/Intermediate: Colleen Loach and Vermont (28.7)
Intermediate Rider: Benjamin Noonan and Keep Kitty (34.5)
Open Intermediate Jackpot: Leslie Law and Lady Chatterley (27.4)
Open Intermediate A: Hallie Coon and Global EX (27.9)
Open Intermediate B: Marilyn Little and RF Scandalous (22.2)
Open Preliminary Jackpot: Hannah Sue Burnett and Lukeswell (26.3)
Open Preliminary 1 Day A: Forrest El-Effendi and Get Rhythm (28.5)
Open Preliminary 1 Day B: Christina Henriksen and Cierra (27.8)
Open Preliminary A: Hannah Sue Burnett and Stakkato Bronx (29.3)
Open Preliminary B: Hannah Hubsch and Bethel Park (34.2)
Preliminary Horse A: Sharon White and I-Quid J (24.5)
Preliminary Horse B: Kelly Prather and Catch Me Cooley (25.0)
Preliminary Rider A: Kristin Rubash and Capone (33.0)
Preliminary Rider B: Ella Kay Lane and Double Dare (36.9)
Open Modified Jackpot: Dasha Ivandaeva and MHS Instant Karma (27.2)
Modified A: Kurt Martin and D.A. Shannondale Cushla (30.7)
Modified B: Karli Wright and The Diesel Boy (28.7)
Modified C: Cassie Sanger and Redfield Fyre (29.2)
Open Training Jackpot: Jennie Brannigan and Keepsake (29.5)
Open Training A: Alyssa Phillips and Cornelius Bo (21.8)
Open Training B: Michelle Mercier and Shirsheen Fun For All (28.8)
Junior Training: Cayden Gaffney and Hot Wheels (31.7)
Senior Training: Kelly Taylor and Kynymont Indelibly Irish (34.3)
Training Horse A: Stephen Bradley and Erika Louvo (38.6)
Training Horse B: Clayton Fredericks and FE Boogie Woogie (28.4)
Junior Novice: Addie Craig and Aura CF (28.6)
Novice Horse A: Kurt Martin and Favarick (23.3)
Novice Horse B: Holly Jacks-Smither and Josephine (27.4)
Open Novice: Ariel Grald and In Vogue (25.7)
Open Novice Jackpot: Katie Sisk and Long Legs Lenore (25.5)
Senior Novice A: Alyssa Cairo and Paddington (24.8)
Senior Novice B: Sarah Main and Isaac GS (32.3)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Demmi Hersh and Jacks-R-Wild (26.4)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Cami Pease and Vibrant (26.4)
Open Beginner Novice: Christiana Schultz and Alexa Dawn (24.7)

Thanks jj for catching Hudson being the best he’s been on xc. He’s gaining confidence in himself and that’s probably the only missing piece.

Posted by Kyle Carter on Sunday, February 14, 2021

Today was an absolute blast!!!!
I’m so thankful the rain held off until 20 minutes after my XC run (it dumped buckets…

Posted by Katelyn Marlow on Sunday, February 14, 2021

Ron Stephens’ Froggy living up to his name and nicely splashing his way to a 27.1 in the open novice. Clean and clear…

Posted by Madeline Backus on Sunday, February 14, 2021

Pine Top Intermediate H.T.: Final Results

Advanced/Intermediate: Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way (34.1)
Intermediate Rider: Meaghan Marinovich Burdick (58.6)
Open Intermediate A: Jenny Caras and Trendy Fernhill (29.7)
Open Intermediate B: Phillip Dutton and Sea of Clouds (28.0)
Open Intermediate C: Jules Ennis and Cooley O (37.6)
Open Preliminary A: Matthew Brown and Super Socks BCF (36.1)
Open Preliminary B: Lillian Heard and Cooley Gentleman (28.4)
Open Preliminary C: Ryan Wood and Cooley Flight (35.4)
Open Preliminary D: Therese Evans and Lost In Ireland (39.9)
Preliminary Rider: Blake Fortson and Quiana AF (38.9)
Preliminary Jr/YR: Jessie Schwartz and WHF Kitaro (41.2)
Preliminary/Training: Sara Beth Anton and SPF Vision Quest (30.9)
Open Training A: Caitlin Silliman and Tuck (23.6)
Open Training B: Sophie Miller and Quarlotta C (29.1)
Junior Training Rider: Margo Deal and Miss TLC (31.4)
Senior Training Rider: Natalie Epstein and Fanta (35.2)
Training/Novice: Clarissa Brown and Aristocrat (33.3)
Open Novice: Jenny Caras and Fernhill Salt Lake (21.4)
Senior Novice Rider: Isabella Rodwig and Dempsey (21.9)
Junior Novice Rider A: Amelia Lohr and Skey Skippa VIP (38.3)
Junior Novice Rider B: Aimee Carson and MHF Christine (29.3)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider: Laura Marie Kramer and Atlas (40.9)
Open Beginner Novice: Rebecca Barber and Rubin Hurricane (26.4)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Hudsyn Bagwell and Ardeo Mermus Hill (32.2)

 

The horses were fantastic this weekend at Pine Top despite some very wet conditions. Thanks to the Pine Top crew for going above and beyond trying to keep the footing as safe as possible for all of the horses and riders!
Super Socks was all business and just added xc time to his dressage score of 26.1 to bring home a blue ribbon in his debut for the season. He’s always struggled with show nerves so it was a relief that he came out listening and keeping a lid on things. He’s capable of amazing work and it’s always hard when his anxiety gets in the way of him showing himself off, and I’m super proud of him for how well he stayed with me in all 3 phases!
Big Berry has really benefited from the light Covid season last year, and his dressage has really started to come along. He’s always been such a talented jumper that he’s easily moved up the levels, but his dressage has always lagged behind. His body is muscled completely different from last year and his gaits are really starting to come out. He suffered from a late round in the show jump ring and by then the footing had really deteriorated, so when he went to push off the ground at one oxer he just didn’t get the purchase he needed and had an uncharacteristic rail down. He was super across the country and finished up his first start of the season in fourth place.
Shelley Onderdonk’s Alderwood is still gaining experience at the preliminary level but boy did he impress me this weekend! A couple little bobbles in an otherwise really nice test kept him just barely outside of scoring in the 20’s, but he gave me such a good feeling and has so much more in there. He also jumped out of his skin for me in the show jumping but also had an unlucky one down due to the ground on take off, but I was super pleased with how rideable he was and how well he was jumping. He went quite late in the division on xc and is also still learning how to gallop in balance, so I took it quite easy with him on the clock to keep his confidence with the ground and to keep him jumping in balance. But he’s a total machine and is always eagerly looking for his next jump, I can’t wait for the future with him!!
With lots more rain that came in overnight on Friday and all day Saturday I decided to scratch the rest of my and my students’ horses, but can’t wait to get back out again in another couple weeks!
Thanks to all the grounds crews, volunteers, and my crew at home and at the show for making the best of a soggy weekend!!
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Posted by Matt Cecily Brown on Sunday, February 14, 2021

Monday News & Notes from FutureTrack

By on Feb 15, 2021 7:49 am -

I know I shouldn’t moan after a decade of shivering my way through Maine winters, but England has been COLD lately, guys. Like, -8C cold (Okay, okay, that’s only 18F and I’m a wimp, I know), which is cold enough that my sojourns onto the yard have been trimmed down to the bare necessities: making warm mashes, adding an extra layer of rugs, sliding my icy fingers under said rugs, and simply laughing if anyone suggests doing any actual riding.

Luckily, our extra-wintery week is now behind us and I can resume normal service – but not without taking a moment to acknowledge all those intrepid eventers up and down the country who used their water jumps as temporary ice rinks. I salute you, you big weirdos.

National Holiday: It’s Singles Awareness Day, and you’d better believe I’m going to celebrate with some discounted chocolate selection boxes.

US Weekend Results:

Fresno County Horse Park H.T.: [Results]

Full Gallop Farm February H.T.: [Results]

Ocala Winter I H.T.: [Results]

Pine Top Intermediate H.T.: [Results]

Your Monday Reading List:

Need a great page-turner for this week? The moving memoir Crossing the Line, penned by Kareem Rosser, is an absolute must-read. Poignant and powerful, it charts Kareem’s journey from the Work to Ride programme through to the polo field, and there’s so much we can learn from its pages. Here’s a little something to whet your appetite. [Kareem Rosser is the New Face of American Polo]

It wouldn’t be a Monday without some great jumping exercises for you to take into the week ahead. British Showjumping coach Mandy Frost shares her favourite exercises for those of us who live in fear of coloured poles. [Show Jumping Exercises for Event Horses]

Do you tend to skip sheath-cleaning? It’s one of the least glamorous parts of horse ownership, and there are compelling arguments for and against the practice – but after discovering grapefruit-sized melanomas in her horse’s sheath, one owner is raising awareness of the need for regular, thorough checks of the undercarriage. [Horse loses sheath and part of penis after major melanomas found during sheath clean]

Confidence crises are something every rider can relate to – even the pros. Middleburg-based trainer Brooke Bayley had to overcome just that last year – but the lessons she learned along the way have helped her to aid her students in their own tricky patches. [Everyone Struggles with Confidence]

If you’re grappling with new regulations for transporting horses in the wake of Brexit, you’re not alone. But add this to your bookmarks – showjumper Sarah Lewis has painstakingly put together a breakdown of costs and regulations, plus a list of useful contacts as the equestrian industry prepares to fight for the ability to carry on business as usual. [Helpful addresses and contacts for Brexit letters]

The Rather Exciting Vacancies Klaxon:

New Zealand-based and looking for a very, very cool job? Equestrian Sports New Zealand (ESNZ) is hiring a Communications Advisor – so if you’re a savvy writer, a dab hand at social media, and, of course, highly passionate about equestrian sport, get your application in before March 5. [ESNZ Communications Advisor]

The FutureTrack Follow:

I know you’re already following Kiwi superstar Tim Price, I just know it. But if not, do – if only for his occasional horror movie worthy artistic endeavours.

What I’m Listening To: Living in the UK as I do, I’ve never yet had the chance to check out the Kentucky Horse Park’s International Museum of the Horse. My FOMO was intensified by the launch of the remarkable permanent exhibition, Black Horsemen of the Kentucky Turf – and so I was beyond chuffed to learn that an online version of the exhibition has just been launched. I’ve prepped myself for a deep dive by listening to an audio interview with Amy Beisel, Director of the museum.

Donation Station: London’s Park Lane Stables is down to the final two weeks in its fundraising campaign to secure its premises, ensuring that local riders can continue to enjoy horses in the city. Park Lane is a crucial part of the local community and a busy Riding for the Disabled centre, providing  extraordinary opportunities for riders and volunteers alike. They have just over £600,000 left to raise before February 25 – and we all know how much money can be raised in a short period of time if the horse world bands together. [‘It has transformed our lives’: two weeks to save Park Lane Stables]

Morning Viewing: 

Great Britain’s Sophie Christiansen CBE isn’t just one of the greatest Paralympic dressage riders out there – she’s a dynamic and multitalented software developer. Get to know her here:

14 Ways to Show Your Horse Love This Valentine’s Day

By on Feb 14, 2021 10:00 am -

A kiss for Cristal Fontaine from groom Chloe Fry. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

It’s nearly Valentine’s Day, which means it’s time to show those you love how much you care. For equestrians, it’s just another day of putting our horses first.

For some people, Valentine’s Day conjures images of flowers, candy in heart-shaped boxes and candle-lit meals. Those people clearly are not equestrians.

So what do equestrians think of when we think of Valentine’s Day? Well, we think of balancing our horses’ diets, our horses’ well-being, our horses’ vet bills, whether or not our horse is comfortable/happy/hungry/cold/thirsty/etc. Essentially, we think about the same things we do any other day of the year. After all, we are equestrians, and our horses always come first.

But the truth is, we show our horses how much we love them every single day of the year in the only way that counts — through our actions (okay, and probably through our words).

Here are 14 ways equestrians show their horses they care.

  1. Not sending them down the road when they act like the occasional (or not so occasional) butthead.
  2. Worrying about whether or not they are getting enough hay/grain/omegas/etc. all the time while we subsists on Doritos for breakfast and ramen for dinner.
  3. Making sure the water troughs and hay nets are full, no matter what the weather.
  4. Schlepping to and from the barn multiple times per day to administer medications, wrap and rewrap legs, do wound care and give our huge, fragile beasts anything else they might need.
  5. Not hesitating to haul them across the state (or multiple states) through the night to get them to a specialty vet, only to return the next week for follow up work.

    Shelby, the queen and recipient of late night hauls to the specialty clinic, and person, Nicole Cammuso. Photo by Rebecca Francis.

  6. Missing vacations and holidays and any number of events because our horses are sick or need us in some other way.
  7. Spending hours designing our horses’ fitness regimen while we sit on the couch in our sweats, having not seen a gym in … months? years?
  8. Having the vet out at least twice a year for shots and wellness exams. Not to mention the emergency visits, Coggins, health papers and … the list goes on. In the meantime, we medicate ourselves (with either wine or our horses’ SMZs , vet wrap our wounds and work despite our own breaks, fractures and pain).
  9. Meticulously mucking our horses’ stalls and sweeping the barn aisles while our own houses and cars look like bags of garbage exploded in them (maybe they did?).
  10. Smooching their very kissable muzzles every chance we get.

    Pixabay/zoosnow/CC

  11. Treating our horses to all sorts of pampering like chiropractic work, massage, PEMF, acupuncture and animal communicators while, once again, we pop some ibuprofen and rub our horses’ liniment on our sore and broken bodies.
  12. Paying hundreds of dollars every four to six weeks to keep our horses’ feet in tip top shape when our own pedicures are but a faint memory.
  13. If we have day jobs that aren’t directly related to our horses, we carve out the time to get to the barn to feed, groom, clean or just spend some time with our equine pals.
  14. Repaying their dedication to us by letting them finish out their lives with us, happy in their pastures, even when their competing and riding days are over.

How do you let your horses know you care? Let us know in the Facebook comments!

Happy Valentine’s Day, EN. Go Eventing!

This post was first published on EN’s sister site, Horse Nation.

Sunday Links

By on Feb 14, 2021 12:01 am -

Well, no one ever called eventers anything less than tough! Heavy rain pelted the Florida Horse Park for this weekend’s Ocala Winter I Horse Trials – but you won’t find any eventers packing up and waiting for a sunnier day! It’s perhaps one of my favorite things about this sport: our fortitude. Of course, we’re also labeled “insane” or “crazy” or just, simply, “wow…” so maybe my opinion is off base. Nonetheless, cheers to all the riders out there braving the weather this weekend! You all are tougher than I am as I sit here in my warm hoodie writing this!

U.S. Weekend Action:

Fresno County Horse Park H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Full Gallop Farm February H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Ocala Winter I H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Pine Top Intermediate H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Sunday Links:

Snag a cool Yeti wine mug (or a tumbler, your choice) when you sign up!

Today is the FINAL day to take advantage of EN’s Patreon launch promo! Sign up by end of day today and we’ll send you a free EN Yeti tumbler or wine mug (your choice!). We’re really excited about our new Patreon, which you can learn more about here.

British Grooms Association founder Lucy Katan says an International Grooms Association is in the works.

Watch polo star Kareem Rosser talk about his new book, Crossing the Line, on The Today Show.

The head of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics organizing committee, Yoshiro Mori, has resigned following his recent sexist comments.

It’s true: everyone struggles with confidence.

Hitting the road with your horse soon? These tips might help make the journey smoother.

Best of the Blogs: The Anxious Eventer – On Limits

Sunday Video Break: Check out “The Madden Method” for cooling out an unclipped horse.