Classic Eventing Nation

No Eventers Nominated for USEF Year-End Superlatives (Lots of Arabians, Tho)

By on Dec 20, 2020 10:00 am -

Try harder next year, eventers!

We kid, we kid.

The USEF has announced its 2020 Equestrian and Horse of the Year candidates, and indeed there are no eventers on the list of 11 total rider and horse candidates. No offense to Arabians, they have many laudable qualities including but not limited to great hair and very archy necks, but it does seem weird that exhibitors of the breed took five out of six of the Equestrian of the Year nominee list. Also one Paso Fino in the mix — the Friesians are getting stiffed, woof! Also of note, there is only one nominee for International Equestrian of Honor, show jumper Kent Farrington, and his mount Gazelle is one of two up for International Horses of Honor. Well, good to know that someone out there had a good 2020!

Author’s note: For the record, my commentary above is tongue in cheek — congrats to all horses nominated, ESPECIALLY the Arabians! The versatility and athleticism of this breed is demonstrated by the range of disciplines they have excelled at, as you can see below. They also make great event horses. My first event horse, whom I competed through Training level, was an Arabian; I owned him from age 3 until he passed away last year at age 29 — I wrote a story about him here. 

Another note from the author: I heard from USEF about how nominees are selected — they rely on discipline/breed affiliates to nominate horses and riders for the International and National Equestrian of the Year & Horse of the Year honors. This year, Kent was the only international athlete nominated by an affiliate (USHJA), which is why he is the automatic award winner on the international side. This year was an unconventional one at best and they do typically receive more nominations. 

Here are this year’s nominees — you can read more about them here:

International Horses of Honor

Dolton (Para Dressage). Photo by Lindsay Y. McCall.

Gazelle (Jumping). Photo by US Equestrian.

National Horses of Honor

Pritchard Hill (Hunter). Photo by Irene Powlick.

Vivaldi de Besilu (Paso Fino). Photo by Stunning Steeds.

International Equestrian of Honor

Kent Farrington (Jumper). Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Equestrian of the Year Nominees

Margy Cox (Arabian). Photo by Don Stine.

Tracy Fenney (Hunter). Photo by Shawn McMillen.

Joel Gangi (Arabian). Photo by Howard Schatzberg.

Sandro Pinha (Arabian). Photo by Kelly Campbell.

Colby Powell (Arabian). Photo by Howard Schatzberg.

Jonathan Ramsay (Arabian). Photo by Kelly Kenneally.

Click here to submit your vote.

Go Eventing.

Sunday Links

By on Dec 20, 2020 12:01 am -

Talk about a before and after. There’s so much to be said for a gold ‘ole Thoroughbred, but sometimes the brains on them just blow you away. Laura Collett shows what a difference three days can make in one horse’s education. It’s true the transformation isn’t always that instant, but experiencing their willingness to learn is always a pleasure.

National Holiday: National Sangria Day

Have you entered our latest Fab Freebie? We’re partnering with Horse & Rider Books to give away a copy of Yoga for Riders – just in time for the off-season, where you can introduce some new fitness habits! Click here to enter before Tuesday, December 22.

Sunday Links: 

Increasing Inclusion in Equestrian Sports

Now on Course: From the Driving Course to the Cross-Country Course

European Eventing Championships back on the cards following FEI U-turn

Badminton dressage and showjumping move to new spectacular location

Karen O’Connor: Reflections and Regrets of an Eventing Superstar

Hot on Horse Nation: Editorial: In Defense of the American Thoroughbred

Sunday Video: Liz Halliday-Sharp’s former UK base, Chailey Stud, is officially on the market. Check it out!

Looking to buy an INCREDIBLE 🤯 Equestrian Centre… Just look at that indoor Arena 😍… …and a stunning 2575 sq ft…

Posted by Perry Power on Tuesday, December 15, 2020

 

 

EN’s Top 10 Videos of 2020, #6: Jump Around!

By on Dec 19, 2020 1:00 pm -

We’re counting down the top videos shared on EN this year! To see videos 7-10, click here.

🐎 Jump around… Jump around… Haha this is the funniest video I saw in last days.. 🤠👇⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣🎩 DM for credit 🙏⁣⁣⁣➖ ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣🐴 Follow @horseonig ⬅️⁣⁣⁣🐴 Follow @horseonig ⬅️⁣⁣⁣⁣🐴 Follow @horseonig ⬅️⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣🐎🤠 ➡️ Do you want to be featured? DM me! ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣Tag your friend if you are real HORSE lover ❤️⁣⁣⁣Your daily tailored posts of horses & stuff🔥 #pony #cheval #horselove #horseofinstagram #equestrianstyle #horserider #horselovers #horseaddict #equinelove #lovehorse #horsephotograpy #beautifulhorses #cutehorse #equines #horseplanet #horseslove #horsesofinstagramdaily #horsesofig #stable #cavallo #ilovemyhorse #horseinstagram #horsepictures #picoftheday #saddle #horsetack #pferdemädchen #pferdefotografie

Posted by Horse on Instagram on Monday, September 7, 2020

Though today’s featured video lacks in length, it sure packs a real punch of ridiculousness into a short amount of time. The mornings are turning crisper and cooler as we approach fall and I’m sure the sight of frolicking horses in a field is familiar to many, but these turn out buddies are taking their excitement to a whole new level.

Turn your sound on and enjoy a laugh!

#EventerProblems Vol. 246, Presented by Haygain: We’re All in This Together

By on Dec 19, 2020 9:00 am -

Two hundred and forty six! 246! Y’all have some serious issues. The good news is that we’re right in there with you. Here’s a roundup of your latest #EventerProblems:

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Saturday Links

By on Dec 19, 2020 12:01 am -

Horses are the best medicine ❤️❤️❤️ and when you can’t get your friend to her horse, you get the horse to your friend

Posted by Kathryn Krische on Friday, December 18, 2020

The EN team would like to send our very best wishes to Anissa Cottongim, owner for riders Andrew Palmer and Jon Holling, breeder of several upper-level event horses, and all-around beloved member of the eventing community. Anissa has had to be away from horses, as she is currently receiving care at the Mayo Clinic in Florida, but was recently surprised with a visit from her own Tatendrang, a 14-year-old Trakehner stallion who has competed through the CCI2*-L level.

I dare you to watch this video of their reunion without getting choked up. No one here will argue that horses aren’t good for the soul.

National Holiday: National Wreaths Across America Day

Have you entered our latest Fab Freebie? We’re partnering with Horse & Rider Books to give away a copy of Yoga for Riders – just in time for the off-season, where you can introduce some new fitness habits! Click here to enter before Tuesday, December 22.

Saturday Links:

Are you a high school or college student? Apply for the 2021 Jockey Club Scholarships

Karen O’Connor: Reflections and Regrets of an Eventing Superstar

Make the Horse Leasing Experience a Win-Win

Featured Clinician: Ema Klugman

Horse Hay Q&A

New era of Games embraced as updated Paris 2024 venue concept approved

Hot on Horse Nation: Editorial: In Defense of the American Thoroughbred

Non-Horsey Holiday Fun: A Tale of Two Christmas Trees: A Metaphor for 2020

Saturday Social Media: Congratulations to Allison Springer — new owner of Deerflield Stables!

Sorry to keep you waiting!!! I bought a farm!!!!!! I have been blessed with amazing long term rentals but owning my own…

Posted by Allison Springer on Friday, December 18, 2020

Friday Video from SmartPak: Get Fit for Riding, Part Two

By on Dec 18, 2020 4:30 pm -

A couple of weeks ago we took a look at the first episode of the new #SweatWithSmartPak series — and today, we’re back with the second instalment. As I mentioned in the last post, I’ve recently gotten into a fitness regime – a totally new concept for me, a naturally curvy gal who’s always relied on my riding and barn chores to keep me fit. But I’ve learned that it’s not enough, and these days, I’m not riding multiple horses through the day, either.

I never really expected to enjoy working out, but I’ve surprised myself – now that I’m in the habit, I actively look forward to heading to the gym every evening. It’s an hour of my day that’s totally self-indulgent, and every time I go, I notice the marginal gains. The trick, if you’re not a natural-born gym bunny? Ease yourself in and make it fun. I started with long walks around scenic parks near my house, and then started running to make the outings shorter and more manageable. I picked up yoga via free YouTube lessons (three cheers for my gal Adriene!) and then started adding in workout videos. Now that I feel like I know what I’m doing, I do it all at the gym instead – and the difference in my riding over the last five weeks or so is already huge. My mare is jumping better than she ever has, and I don’t think it’s a coincidence; for the first time in a long time, I feel totally in control of my own reactions in the middle of a course, and I can help, rather than hinder, her.

So if you’re just diving into your fitness journey, join in with this super series from SmartPak – it’s designed to help you learn correct form and will target the muscle groups that’ll most help you as a rider. And if you start now? You’ll be a completely new competitor by the time the season rolls around.

Go Eventing!

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: Dear Santa…

By on Dec 18, 2020 3:00 pm -

In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN. We include the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and contact information.

Right now there are so many wonderful horses listed for sale on Sport Horse Nation, it was hard to choose a category for this week’s spotlight. There’s everything from unbroke 3-year-olds to four-star winners with a lot in between. Here are five that simply caught my eye — bet you can find something to add to your Christmas list.

Meet Virginia. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Meet Virginia~ AA Dream mount!

Meet Virginia
2011 15.1h Tobiano Paint/Draft Mare

Virginia is a wonderful BN Eventer! She was 5th out of 40 horses as a 5yo in the 2016 BN division of the AECs. She is very well trained and easy in her flatwork, and a very honest, uncomplicated jumper. She is super to hack out alone and with company, and is a pleasure in the barn. She would love a job with variety including hunter paces etc. She would suit an AA looking for a fun, consistent and well-educated partner! Price is neg to the perfect AA home!

Paddington. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Paddington~Jr/AA Eventer

Paddington 2014 16.3h Chestnut Oldenburg Gelding

Paddy is a great option for Eventing as he is very brave, has plenty of step, balanced, willing, and loves to jump. He would also make a 3 ring horse as well. He as been very easy and uncomplicated XC schooling. Does not pull, stop, or spook. He is a packer over fences!

Hacks out alone and with company and has some mileage at schooling HJ and dressage shows. Such a nice guy! Very suitable for Jr/AA. Plenty of talent to go thru Training Level at least. Located in South Carolina.

Osito. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Experienced Training Level Eventer

OSITO – Stunning 11 YO 16.3-17 h Dark Bay OTTB. Successfully competing at Training level with DR scores in the mid 20s to low 30s. No XC faults. Recent 1st place finish on DR score of 25.7 Qualified for AECs in 2019 and 2020. He has good ground manners, stands for the farrier, loads and unloads from the trailer nicely. Has made several 2-3 week trips without any issues. He is an energetic guy with a playful personality. Has the talent for more, but happy to be a TR level packer. Currently in NM.

Moose. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Gentle Giant Looking for a Step Down

“Moose” is easy going in the barn and has a complete “in your pocket” personality. He goes out by himself or with others. He is extremely easy to ride and has three very comfortable gaits. Moose has done a little bit of everything – dressage shows, jumper shows, hacking and eventing. He is junior and amateur friendly and looking for a step down in life- can’t say enough great things about this horse! Located in Florida.

Low Key Obsession. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

***Flashy BN/Novice Packer***

****Buyer’s Steal*****

LKE Offers For Sale in Middleburg, VA, Low Key Obsession is a 2010,16 hand, Irish TB, who has competed through the Training Level. “Rico” is a cute mover, typey/athletic jumper, with a great brain and a heart of gold! He is straightforward and flashy on the flat, careful and tidy in the show jump, brave and confident cross country. He feels most comfortable and confident being a Beginner Novice/Novice packer. He is suitable for any adult amatuer or young rider.

Contact Lindsay Kelley- call/text-703.431.0830 or email [email protected]. $18,000. Located in Virginia.

Listings included in this article are randomly selected and confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.

FEI Reopens Bidding Process for 2021 European Eventing Championships

By on Dec 18, 2020 12:00 pm -

Michael Jung, Ingrid Klimke and Cathal Daniels celebrate their individual medals at the 2019 Longines FEI European Eventing Championships. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The FEI has agreed to reopen the bidding process for the 2021 European Eventing Championships after a social media campaign led by Michael Jung gained traction over the past weeks. The Championships, which were originally set to be held in France at Haras du Pin, were cancelled earlier this year in line with the postponement of the Olympic Games, but after early campaigning, both the dressage and showjumping championships were reinstated. Eventing, however, was not.

Horse&Hound reported last week that the FEI had explained eventing’s lack of reinstatement after Jung’s initial call for the Championships to be reinstated in the 2021 calendar. A spokesman told the magazine that an initial bidding process had been opened with a July 21, 2020 deadline, and three venues had applied to host the Championships through that process – Haras du Pin, Ireland’s Millstreet, and an unnamed third venue.

“Due to the third organising committee’s relative inexperience of hosting an event on the scale of the European Championships, this expression of interest did not proceed to the formal bidding/applicant stage,” the spokesman said, continuing on to explain that the other two bids had been reviewed, with the FEI offering significant financial support to ease the burden on the organisers.

But, the spokesman explained, “ultimately, Haras du Pin and Millstreet voluntarily withdrew from the process, due to their limitation to hold the championships on the selected dates and ongoing concerns around Covid-19. Following the withdrawal, and on the understanding that the Olympics would go ahead in 2021, the FEI board agreed not to re-open the bidding process for the eventing Europeans.”

Piggy French and Quarrycrest Echo at the 2019 European Championships. Photo by William Carey.

Jung’s plea via social media for a reinstated Championship named the Swiss CCI4*-S venue at Avenches as a viable and prepared location, with a “motivated and experienced” team. He went on to explain that the new Olympic format, which sees just three combinations represent each qualified team, furthered the necessity for these Championships as a way to progress the next generation of team competitors and continue the development of young eventing nations. But, said the FEI spokesman, Avenches had never come forward in the official bidding process.

But today (December 17) the FEI has made a U-turn in its seemingly final decision to pull the plug on the 2021 European Eventing Championships, and has agreed to reopen the bidding process for a final time.

“Further to the numerous requests received from a number of European eventing stakeholders, including national federations and athletes, and with the full support of the European Equestrian Federation and the FEI Eventing Committee, the Board agreed to reopen the bidding process for the European Eventing Championship 2021,” said the statement. Bidding will open from December 18 and will close on January 15, 2021. The decision will be made in March 2021 via a teleconference.

The World Equestrian Center Ocala is Open! Take a First Look Around

By on Dec 18, 2020 9:00 am -

MAVEN Photo & Film.

The day has finally come: the World Equestrian Center – Ocala has opened its doors! We’ve been eagerly awaiting the opening of Florida’s latest world-class equestrian venue, and from the looks of it we will not be disappointed. We’re pleased to bring you this first look at the stunning 368 acre facility located on the west side of Ocala thanks to the WEC marketing team and MAVEN Photo & Film. In total, the equestrian park property comprises 6,000 acres, and 300 are currently on reserve for future expansion of the show venue.

The inaugural World Equestrian Center Three-Day Event is scheduled for October 21-24, 2021 and will run CCI2*-S, CCI3*-S, and CCI4*-S divisions. The cross country course, to be built on the western side of the property, will be designed by Capt. Mark Phillips.

Take a look at the layout of the World Equestrian Center:

Graphic courtesy of World Equestrian Center – Ocala.

There are a multitude of amenities and details addressed throughout the facility. The venue team provided the following sneak peek from the January issue of WEC Magazine of what visitors have to look forward to:

Photo by MAVEN Photo & Film.

The Equestrian Hotel

The‌ Equestrian Hotel ‌features‌ ‌248 ‌stylishly‌-appointed‌ ‌rooms‌ ‌and‌ ‌suites‌ overlooking‌ ‌the‌ ‌open-air‌ grand‌ ‌stadium where guests‌ can enjoy ‌world-class‌ ‌equestrian‌ ‌competition just outside their window.‌ ‌Guests at The Equestrian Hotel enjoy fabulous shopping, a relaxing day at the spa, strolling the promenade or dining al fresco at the Yellow Pony on our raised terrace overlooking the Grand Arena. The Equestrian Hotel is the stunning centerpiece of the World Equestrian Center – Ocala venue, just minutes from the arenas, exposition centers and competition rings and sports fields.

The Grand Stadium

Built to standards of international competition, the Grand Stadium is the located in the plaza, lying just below the raised terrace of The Equestrian Hotel. With elegant terrace seating and covered seating flanking the ring, all guests will have an exceptional view of the action in the grand stadium. The Jumbotrons at each side of the ring and a phenomenal sound system contribute to atmosphere of world-class competition.

Photo by MAVEN Photo & Film.

Sgt. Reckless Statue

Visit this touching tribute to the decorated warhorse, Sgt. Reckless, located on the spacious plaza across from the elegant Equestrian Hotel. Reckless was decorated with two purple hearts for her service with the Marine Corps. during the Korean War.

Indoor Arenas 1-4

There are four magnificent 262’ × 550’ climate-controlled indoor arenas at World Equestrian Center – Ocala ensuring that competition can be held no matter the weather. All four indoor arenas feature custom-blended GGT footing, stadium seating and massive high definition Jumbotrons. These indoor arenas surround the grand outdoor arena on three sides.

Hunterland

The magnificent derby stadium plays hosts to elegant hunter and jumper competition with seating for 8,000. Lighted for special nighttime events, the stadium provides spectators with the right atmosphere to enjoy top equestrian competition.

Jumper Village

There are 22 outdoor rings at World Equestrian Center including rings especially designed for show jumping. Each ring has a dedicated warm up, with shade pavilions for horses, grooms and spectators.

Stables

Our equine guests have their own elegant accommodations at World Equestrian Center – Ocala. Climate controlled stabling feature special equine mattresses in spacious stalls. We have capacity for 2,200 horses in more than 20 barns. Turnout is essential to equine health, so we have installed 250 paddocks for horses to enjoy during their leisure time.

Dining

The World Equestrian Center has a myriad of dining options from rich Italian food, to amazing Mexican fare and a whimsical candy store that will delight your inner child and a sumptuous French patisserie.

Hunter/jumper competition kicks off on January 6 with the first World Equestrian Center Winter Spectacular, but dining and vendors are open now, so feel free to stop by for a visit! The Tom Powers Christmas Futurity is also happening on Sunday, December 20. Click here to view the full events calendar and plan your visit. To learn more about the World Equestrian Center – Ocala, click here.

Friday News & Notes

By on Dec 18, 2020 12:03 am -

Bellamy enjoying his snow day yesterday. Photo by Jimmie Schramm.

A week from today is Christmas! This year, like everything else, our celebrations will probably look a little different, but the holiday spirit is still strong. The bad thing this year is that the mail delivery system is so deeply overloaded from everyone shopping online that half of my gifts are weeks late in arriving and it’s giving me lots of anxiety. But, I guess we’re all in the same boat so if your gift comes in 2021, I haven’t forgotten you!

News From Around the Globe:

Best of Blogs: I Am A Black Equestrian

Separately, the Board agreed to reopen the bid process for the FEI Eventing European Championship 2021, following numerous requests from a number of European Eventing stakeholders, including National Federations and Athletes, and with the full support of the European Equestrian Federation and the FEI Eventing Committee. The bid process will open on 18 December 2020 and National Federations and Organisers have until 15 January 2021 to apply to the FEI. The FEI Board will take a decision on the allocation of this Championship at its March 2021 teleconference.

Any rider has had the experience. You see something in the distance that will most definitely send your horse into a spiral: be it a deer on the trails, a wayward tarp, or the world-shattering open umbrella. Unbeknownst to you, your heart starts to beat faster as your brain prepares for a spook, and before your horse even sees the threat, he’s tense, too. In these situations, we’ve been taught that a deep breath goes a long way; that horses can sense our fear, and by staying calm, our energy will transfer into them. But did you know that there’s actual science behind this horsemanship? [Two Bodies, One Heart: Horses & Your Heartbeat]

Many people have embarked upon quarantine projects as the COVID-19 pandemic has stretched on. For top eventer Cathy Wieschhoff, that project has been sharing her knowledge from decades of horsemanship. Wieschhoff has begun a web series titled ‘One Minute With Cathy’ which provide viewers with her tips, tricks, and perspective on common mistakes. [Simple Tricks for Teaching Leg Yield]

Have you entered our latest Fab Freebie? We’re partnering with Horse & Rider Books to give away a copy of Yoga for Riders – just in time for the off-season, where you can introduce some new fitness habits! Click here to enter before Tuesday, December 22.

British readers will be a little sadder this holiday season because of the absence of Olympia this year. Normally, at this time of the year, tons of horsey folks would be heading to the London International Horse Show for a week of incredible equestrian action. However, the show was cancelled this year, so we’re looking back at fond memories from the past. [17 Wonderful Olympia Memories]

Pony snow day fun!