Classic Eventing Nation

Twin Rivers: Tamie Smith Takes 1 & 2 spots in CCI3*-S, Haley Turner Wins CCI2*-S

By on Sep 19, 2020 2:00 am -

Some sanity returned amid 2020’s wild ride as the Twin Rivers Fall International unfurled in Central California, where CCI2*-S and CCI3*-S competition was decided today.

Junior rider Haley Turner and Shadow Inspector laid down a wire-to-wire win in the 2*, while the 3* standings changed dramatically as Tamie Smith and Terry and Linda Paine’s Cheers moved from eighth after dressage to first.  Tamie, the 2019 Pan Am Games team gold medalist, dominated with five horses in this 15-horse starting field, including runner-up Solaguayre California, owned by Julianne Guariglia.

The CCI4*-S was originally set to conclude today, too, but was rescheduled for Saturday morning, due to a change in the weather. The reschedule gave the Twin Rivers crew extra time to make some adjustments to the cross-country footing before the 3* and Intermediate pairs ran today. The CCI4*-S cross-country starts Saturday at 8:15 a.m. PT, with Tamie Smith leading the pack aboard Ruth Bley’s Danito.

Haley Turner and Shadow Inspector. Photo by MGO Photography.

            It’s Turner’s 2*

“It was amazing!” said almost-18-year-old Haley Turner of her win with “Chief” in the CCI2*-S. Yesterday’s 26.8 dressage score stayed put over this morning’s show jumping designed by Jose Nava. The afternoon’s run over totally new routes by Hugh Lochore went smoothly, too. Just a .4 time fault, to end on a 27.2.

“It’s been quite a long journey for us,” said the student of Bea and Derek DiGrazia. The 10-year-old Irish sport horse sustained an injury the first year Haley had him, then she was injured in the second year of their partnership. This year, their third together, began with high hopes for a North American Youth Championships spot and started well at the Twin Rivers Winter Horse Trials in March, when they finished second in the Preliminary JR/YR division. Then came COVID.

“It’s wonderful to get back out there. The cross-country course is completely different than it was in March,” reports Haley. “It was fun and a good challenge while also being inviting.”

An online student through high school, Haley graduated early last spring and plans to take a gap year partly because of COVID’s impact on the college experience. The opportunity to focus full time on her riding has been a plus and a pleasure, she says. “It’s almost like we’ve had a second winter to practice and improve our skills.”

Amateur rider Lauren Burnell and Counterpoint finished second, on their 29 dressage score. Emilee Libby and Natalia Valente’s Toska moved up steadily, from an eighth-place tie after dressage, into third thanks to penalty-free show jumping and cross-country.

Tamie Smith & Cheers. Photo by MGO Photography.

It’s Cheers, Indeed, in the CCI3*-S

Under the saddle of Tamie Smith, Linda and Terry Paine’s 8-year-old homebred Thoroughbred, Cheers, was the only horse without time faults on Hugh Lochore’s 3* cross-country. That speed helped him move up from an 8th ranked 34.3 dressage score, and a show jumping rail, which Tamie described as “my rail,” to win the day. “He’s been a work in progress, and it’s really cool to have him seal the deal here. Every horse is different: he’s hot and has been a bit slow to develop.” As the final phase neared, Tamie’s “right hand person,” Bridget London calculated that a double clear would earn the win, and that’s what the pair delivered. “He is an amazing cross-country horse,” Tamie concluded.

 Tamie had a different tact with her second-place winner, Solaguayre California, a relatively new ride. Third after dressage on a 32.3, they had rail Tamie again took the blame for, then four time penalties on cross-country. “Out of the box, I am always going for what I need with each different horse. She’d had a beautiful, solid show jumping round and the time was hard to make on cross-country. It was not an easy track to make up time on. So, I wasn’t trying to go crazy fast on her because she is green and more spooky than Cheers. We went at the level that I needed to for her training.” The Argentine Thoroughbred was developed by David Adamo, who “did a phenomenal job with her,” Tamie added.

Bec Braitling and Arnell Sport Horses’ Caravaggio II finished third in the division. After leading dressage with a 30.6, a show jumping rail and cross-country time faults slipped them to third.

Weekend Highlights  

Along with the conclusion of the CCI4*-S tomorrow and ongoing Introductory through Training competition, the Fall International hosts qualifiers for the USEA Future Event Horse West Coast Championships and The Dutta Corp. USEA Young Event Horse West Coast Championships.  This special showcase for young horses will be hosted by Twin Rivers on Oct. 23-24. An unrated one-day event is slated for Sunday, Oct. 25, and a new, rated Horse Trials is Introductory to Intermediate on Nov. 13-15.

Although USEF and local COVID-prevention safety protocols bar spectators from attending the Twin Rivers Fall International, Ride On Video is live streaming throughout the weekend.

Twin Rivers Fall International: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Saturday Links

By on Sep 19, 2020 12:01 am -

Photo by Abby Powell.

Horses bring me a lot of peace, generally. Even throughout a week as tumultuous as this one, I still found a trip to the barn and a quiet hack to be just what the doctor ordered. I hope you all have been able to get out and enjoy your horses as well.

National Holiday: National Talk Like a Pirate Day (Argh.)

U.S. Weekend Action:

Apple Knoll Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Meadowcreek Park Fall Social Event: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Sundance Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Twin Rivers Fall International: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times/Live Scores]

Major Overseas Action:

Burnham Market: Entries & Ride Times | Live Scores | Website | Live Stream | EN’s Coverage | EN’s Twitter | EN’s Instagram

Saturday Links:

An Eventer’s Path to Safety During the West Coast Wildfires

Beyond the Black Square: Horse Shows Aren’t Doing Enough to Support BLM

Horses, Fire and Evacuation in Los Angeles

Perfecting Your Horse’s Plaits

Eventer kicked in the face calls for riders to consider hats on the ground after ‘lucky’ escape

Cognitive tests don’t always pick up concussion effects, study finds

Why There Will Never Be Another Valegro

Blog Nation: I Stand with Eventing Nation. Enough is Enough.

Saturday Video: Take an up close and personal peek at some of the 4*-L fences on Burnham Market’s course:

How to Tune In to Twin Rivers Fall International All Weekend

By on Sep 18, 2020 10:00 pm -

The new “Burghley Flyover” at Twin Rivers. Photo by Kim Miller.

We’re thrilled to see Twin Rivers Ranch in Paso Robles, California hosting the first FEI event of the 2020 season for our friends on the West coast. Heavy hitters such as Andrea Baxter, Jennifer McFall, Tamie Smith, and many others will be out and about competing this weekend alongside hundreds of riders in divisions ranging from Intro all the way through CCI4*S.

If you’d like to stay in tune with the action this weekend, beginning today, Ride On Video is providing a free live stream each day. Ride On Video, run by Bob and Debbie Ravenscroft, has gone to great lengths this year to support the sport despite having limited resources. Even though they’ve had to pare down their offerings, we’re still so grateful for their efforts and encourage all competing this weekend to order their competition video. You can do so by texting 916-412-8382 emailing [email protected].

There will be a live stream camera on both dressage arenas today. For Friday through Sunday’s activity, one camera will focus on cross country while the other will bring you show jumping action each day. You can tune in to the live stream here and check division ride times here.

Twin Rivers Fall International: [Website] [Ride Times/Live Scores]

Friday Video from SmartPak: Crazy Poles with Amanda Ross

By on Sep 18, 2020 6:50 pm -

Whenever I look at the weekends in my calendar, I like to make sure they’re all full of one of two things: eventing, or learning everything I can to improve the next time I go eventing. (Okay, and gin, too, but that must be presented in either scenario, frankly.)

This weekend’s an eventing one — though as a reporter, not a rider — but after watching a couple hundred combinations smash out excellent four-star dressage tests over the last two days at Burnham Market, I’m already planning my schooling sessions for the moment I touch down at home. So I was delighted to discover that Australian eventer Amanda Ross had delivered up a new instalment in her fun, educational vlog series — and this time, it focuses on universally useful polework. I might not like the lugging, but I sure do like the benefits this’ll bring!

Izzy Taylor Does the Dressage Double at Burnham Market

By on Sep 18, 2020 6:18 pm -

Izzy Taylor and Monkeying Around continue their long string of impressive dressage performances, taking the lead in the CCI4*-L as we head into cross-country. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Sometimes, a rider will turn up at an event and the competition will immediately curl into their lap, purring like a happy kitten. That’s certainly been the case for Izzy Taylor at Burnham Market over the past few days; if there’s a bowl of cream anywhere on site, it’ll certainly be found in her lorry. Yesterday, we saw her take an enormous lead in the CCI4*-S class aboard eight-year-old Hartacker, a horse who had previously sat quite comfortably on scores in the upper-20s. The 20.3 they’d end up posting turned out to be a career best for the horse, the rider, and the venue. That, we believe, is what they call ‘a good day at the office.’

But if Izzy’s known for anything, it’s the fact that she doesn’t stop working until all the work’s run out. Rather than getting complacent after her great performances yesterday, and rather than coasting along on the fact that her CCI4*-L mount Monkeying Around is dressage-bred — with performances to back it up — she came out riding to win. Her laser-sharp focus and immaculate production of the horse throughout the test earned them a 23.2 and the dressage lead.

“There’s always more to come; it’s easy to forget that he’s only nine, but I was really pleased with him,” says Izzy.

We last saw Monkeying Around just last month in the CCI4*-S at Burgham, where he finished third after adding a cumulative total of two time penalties to his 21.2 dressage — though the former Six-Year-Old World Champion’s performance at the four-star level has been somewhat varied, with two cross-country clears out of six runs at the level so far. But while Burgham suits the horse — both those clears happened there — it was easy to see how the gelding had matured through this year. If that straightness and conviction continues over tomorrow’s cross-country course, the nine-year-old will be formidable.

Piggy March ties with herself for second place overnight aboard new ride Fonbherna Lancer. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Piggy March sits in equal second place overnight on a score of 26.2, earned by two of her rides: the former Emily King ride Dargun, who performed his test yesterday, and the former Izzy Taylor ride Fonbherna Lancer, whose turn between the boards came today.

“He’s beautiful — very eye-catching,” says Piggy. “I can probably get certain areas a bit quicker, though — he’s a big mover, and it can sometimes get a bit slow. But his brain was really with me, and I felt he really tried and didn’t feel his attention went elsewhere or missed any signals.”

This is a second international for the pair, who came together at the start of 2020 and finished second in the CCI3*-S at Burgham. Though his early international efforts show a couple of blips, it all began to come together in 2019 for Fonbherna Lancer, and he added a second place finish at Ballindenisk CCI4*-S and a top twenty at Boekelo to the crown jewel of his record — a win at Millstreet CCI4*-S. Now, Piggy’s been working to get to know the horse — a proposition that, in opposition to her familiarisation process with yesterday’s ride Dargun, has been made somewhat trickier by lockdown.

“He’s a really easy horse in lots of ways, but is inwardly a little bit more of a thinker than he would let on,” she says. “He has a little bit of history; I don’t think he was the easiest young horse, but I find him a fun horse — he’s a good mover and a good jumper, and he likes to run. He’s definitely quite a foreign horse, but with enough quality. We’re still learning so much — every run I do, I’d have changed the bit, or the saddle, or the feed… I’ve had him since the beginning of the year, but with only two runs. At home he’s so easy, and it’s only when I’ve got to the competition environment that I’ve figured out things I can do to improve.”

JL Dublin gives Nicola Wilson her second spot in the top ten going into cross-country. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Nicola Wilson found herself in the top ten yesterday aboard the experienced Bulana, who heads into cross-country in seventh place on 27.6. Today, she added another ride to the leaderboard in JL Dublin, a nine-year-old Holsteiner gelding in his first long-format four-star. The performance puts her ahead of Italy’s Vittoria Panizzon and Chequers Play the Game and Sarah Bullimore and Corouet, fifth and sixth overnight respectively.

William Fox-Pitt’s young mare Grafennacht enjoys a fruitful first phase in her debut CCI4*-L. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

William Fox-Pitt and Grafennacht, an eight-year-old mare making her CCI4*-L debut, scored 27.9 for overnight eighth place, belying the relative inexperience of the horse, who finished fourth in the Seven-Year-Old World Championship last year. They slot in just ahead of Alex Hua Tian and new ride Ballbreaker SD, in equal ninth after their 28.3 test of yesterday.

Oliver Townend and former Blair Castle CCI4*-S winner Tregilder round out the CCI4*-L top ten. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The undisputed king of Burnham Market Oliver Townend closes out the top ten at the culmination of the dressage phase aboard Tregilder, who comes into his second CCI4*-L off the back of four consecutive top-ten finishes at four-star level. They posted a 28.3, proving that their 22.9 at Burgham last month, while considerably lower than their usual low-30s marks, wasn’t a fluke but rather a result of considerable progression through the year.

Kitty King and former Six-Year-Old World Champion Cristal Fontaine. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Izzy and Hartacker remained unbeatable in the CCI4*-S class, which incorporates an ‘open’ section with the prestigious eight- and nine-year-old class ordinarily held at Blenheim.

“He was beautiful,” says Izzy. “He’s only eight, and he’s never done a four-star before. He has a beautiful brain and is very trainable — he just really wants to do it right. That’s his biggest downfall in some ways, because he can try too hard, but he was really relaxed in his test and trying. He was 100% with me every stride of the way — it’s so exciting.”

But their three-point lead was narrowed slightly by the efforts of Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir, who sit in provisional second on 22.3 — the 23-year-old professional’s best-ever international score. They’re tied overnight with Sweden’s Therese Viklund and Diabolique. This, too, represents a best-ever international score for Therese, further proving our suspicions that everyone has been drinking a Charlotte Dujardin polyjuice potion over lockdown.

Much of yesterday’s CCI4*-S leaderboard remains full of yesterday’s faces — Oliver Townend and Cillnabradden Evo sit in fourth place, followed by China’s Alex Hua Tian and Don Geniro in fifth and Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo in sixth. The 2018 Six-Year-Old World Champion Cristal Fontaine sits in provisional seventh on 25.7 with Kitty King, despite a minor wobble in which he misread a trot-walk transition as a halt. But Kitty, who is both detail-orientated and quite unflappable in this phase, rode through the blip seamlessly to continue on with the prescribed movement.

The CCI4*-S began its showjumping phase this afternoon, and will continue through the rest of the combinations tomorrow morning — stay tuned for a full report at the culmination of the action, as well as an in-depth look at the CCI4*-L cross-country phase, which begins at 11.45 local time.

You can follow along with all the action tomorrow and Sunday on Horse&CountryTV, and enjoy a virtual ‘walk’ of the courses — both CCI4*-S and CCI4*-L — via the CrossCountryApp.

Go Eventing!

The top ten in Burnham’s CCI4*-L at the culmination of dressage.

The top ten after dressage in the combined CCI4*-S section.

Burnham Market: Entries & Ride Times | Live Scores | Website | Live Stream | EN’s Coverage | EN’s Twitter | EN’s Instagram

How to Make Mane Maintenance Tolerable, Brought to You by BANIXX

By on Sep 18, 2020 3:30 pm -

Mare with a LONG Mane. Photo Credit Shellie Sommerson.

Does your horse hate anything done with its mane? Here are some ways to get her okay with combing, pulling and braiding.

This may take a few sessions, but it will really pay off if you take a little time with your horse! The amount of time depends upon you keeping your ‘cool’ and the horse. A horse that is extremely sensitive, has little handling or one that does not understand boundaries, will take a little longer. But the biggest factor depends mostly on you keeping your ‘cool’. This CAN be accomplished during your regular grooming sessions.

Safety First

Wearing a helmet is a good idea, even a safety vest. You only have one head and brain, protect it! The vest can protect you from a fall or if you get bumped into. If a mistake is made, or an accident occurs  and you have protective gear on, it could really save you from some pain or worse. And helmet hair is totally in this season (and every season), and safety vests go with everything!

Quietly Establish Boundaries

If your horse pulls away while you are removing her halter, then some boundaries are misaligned. Everything starts with boundaries. You need your horse to understand that she is safe standing quietly with you. She needs to understand that some things may be a bit uncomfortable at times, but she is safe and life is fair (not sure if fair for people and horses really translates to the same!) but there is an ‘agreement’ that you can make with your horse with some things that are not totally comfortable, but discomfort will not last long and all will be okay. So, how do you get there?

If your horse does not understand boundaries, then you will need to take some time to establish those, and a refresher is always good. This really does not take long it is just being consistent about your expectations. So, basic leading and standing are part of this, then you need your horse to not step into your space when something bothers her.

Think about having a hula hoop around you as your personal circle. She is not allowed to step into your ‘personal circle’. Your job is to pay attention to your horse’s body language and soften and reward when she gives the correct answer, yet quietly correct rudeness. This really needs to be part of handling your horse in all situations. Getting the timing with this correctly can be a challenge. Watching someone else that has good timing and a good temperament is a helpful tool (videos of yourself are helpful as well so you can see how you move and respond).

Also, when you are working with your horse on establishing boundaries, it is NOT a time for multi-tasking. If your horse needs your help in this department then it is super important to keep your quiet focus with her.

Teach your horse to lower her head with light pressure from your hand and from the halter; you should be able to do this from either side and while you are in front of her. When a horse lowers her head and neck it relieves tension and is calming (the opposite is high head and neck with high alert senses). When you ask her to lower her head it should be with light pressure and not a pushing/pulling contest.

Pay special attention to, and have the goal, of your horse taking deep breaths while you are handling her. Those deep breaths translate to relaxation and understanding – and you want that!

During these ‘exercises’ your only agenda should be to spend a little time working in the deficit areas, not achieving a specific goal. Some days may feel like you went backwards – don’t fret, stay the course. We all have ups and downs. Also, I do not like to tie or crosstie a horse while working on these exercises and activities until she is able to stay calm while accomplishing them.

Once you and your horse have those areas fairly well accomplished (you will likely need to revisit at times) you can progress.

Combing (yes, combing, not brushing)

Again, probably not good to tie or crosstie when you are working on this step until she gets comfortable with it.

The best tool for combing is a metal pulling comb with a handle. This tool will allow you to comb as little amount of mane hairs as you like without losing control of that part of the process, and it will withstand some pressure without breaking.

However, for a horse that is extremely sensitive to having her mane combed, a metal curry (the round curry with a handle) is a solid faux comb. This tool is helpful to desensitize your Drama Queen about having her mane touched.

Metal Curry

Another, often, productive methodology is to start combing the mane from the other side. Yes, you are bringing the mane to the side you do not want it to lay on; however, many horses will tolerate their mane being combed from the side it does not lay on. Combing pulls out little bits of mane too, so you are establishing some action and sensation situations.

Start working on the part of her neck that she is most tolerant of and if she moves around follow for a few steps, then quietly remind her about the boundaries (stop her as gently as possible). Move her back into the original place and start again. Do only as much or little as she can tolerate without getting terribly upset. And if she does not move and is now compliant with your requests, then stop and rub her neck or face or wherever she likes, maybe even give her a treat.

Take those moments and build on them SLOWLY. Take a little progress and be happy with that for the day, do not keep pushing.

These videos show progress from hating combing…

To tolerating it two days later after sticking with the same methodology.

Pulling the Mane

You’ll need a metal pulling comb with a handle (extra tip: if your horse’s mane is in good shape and you want to get it in really good shape for braiding, use a men’s plastic comb).

Men’s Comb

Pulling after the horse is warm, but not wet, is usually the easiest. Just don’t even attempt to pull a wet mane; your fingers will suffer, and it just does not work out too well. Stick with the same methodology as combing when you are getting your horse comfortable with having her mane pulled – go slowly, take frequent breaks and reward when she is quiet.

Find your horse’s ‘rhythm’ and how many hairs she is comfortable with during each ‘pull’. Some are better when the pulling moves up and down the neck rather than in the same area. Some are okay with larger amounts of hair pulled at a time while others are okay with just a few hairs. And some horses prefer to do the ‘pulling’ (once you select the hairs and wrap them around the comb the horse leans away, the hairs come out and the horse leans back to where it was), and do so calmly after that is all figured out.

For the thicker manes it is easier to pull the underside of the mane, and this holds for the super thick pony type manes. Take hold of the underside (closest to the neck), ‘rat’ the mane upward with your comb, then wrap that underside hair around the comb and pull. It should come out fairly easy. Do this up and down the neck, working more on the areas where the mane is the thickest.

Have a long mane that needs to be shortened up? If it is thick then I start pulling and pull every other day until the mane is close to the thickness desired, then I razor the mane to shorten close to the length desired. I finish up by pulling to the desired length. Why not cut? My experience with scissors on a mane has been DISASTER! I just do not recommend using scissors on a mane.

Braiding

Have a helper for the first few times. And cookies are okay during this process! The more positive and the less stressful the braiding session is, the easier it will be the next time.

Yarn versus rubber bands? To share some personal experience, I thought rubber bands would be best for an overly sensitive mare’s first time being braided. It did not work out too well because I am no good with rubber bands. I spent more time messing around with the bands and the mare started getting antsy towards the end of the braiding session. Use materials you are comfortable with and know how to use. And, if you are new to braiding, then practice on a horse that is used to the process.

Start braiding where the horse is more comfortable with you working on her neck. If she is more comfortable at the top of her neck, start there. If it is near the withers, start there. If you have to start in the middle of the neck, just mark out your sections with your comb and start in the middle.

If yarn is your material of choice know that the yarn hanging on the horse’s neck adds a ‘tickle’ factor when it hangs on the neck. To alleviate this, braid down a few braids, then tie up and cut off the excess, then continue. Often you can braid down three or four braids on an extremely sensitive horse before needing to tie up and cut off the excess yarn.

Work in breaks during the braiding sessions. They are good for the horse and they are good for you. You need to stay calm and empathetic.

And be okay if you cannot braid the entire mane. For example, you may not be able to get the top 2 or 3 braids in (nearest the ears) or bottom (nearest the withers). But if you are patient and stay the calm and quiet course, over time (and maybe it is another time) you will be able to braid the horse’s entire mane.

These methods and processes have worked well for hot Thoroughbreds, hot chestnut mares, horses that were previously sedated for mane pulling, somewhat feral horses, drama queens, and many types in between. By staying patient, consistent and not getting overzealous just about any horse can learn that having her mane combed, pulled, and braided is all okay.

These tips can help you and your horse be more comfortable and have more enjoyable grooming and show preparation sessions.

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Why Change Is Hard

By on Sep 18, 2020 12:38 pm -

Photo by Amy Dragoo.

Eventing Nation was started 11 years ago in a barn aisle with the idea that the eventing community is unlike any other. Full of our quirks and rough edges, we come together in barns all across the country, united by love of horses and our crazy sport, to form groups that care for each other through thick and thin. Wouldn’t it be cool if there was a place that encouraged that community to flourish and spread across the country, North America, and the world?

The challenge of relationships and community is that, if you want them to be real, you will have to step into moments of tough conversation and conflict. EN has consistently been willing to move into places of tough conversation well before others because we believe that our community can be real, not just easy. The harder the issue, the more difficult and the more important this first step becomes.

Everyone should be free to hold any particular belief about a word. And I want to say that I personally see each side of the discussion about the word that is causing so much debate this week. But the challenge now facing our sport is not about one word. Frankly, it’s not just about diversity. The question we now face is how will we as a community respond to deep, painful, genuine conflict? Who and what principles will guide us?

The only three actions taken by the editorial team at EN were 1) privately raise the name issue through what we believed were the proper channels, 2) make a commitment to use an alternative name in our coverage on EN, and 3) publish an editorial explaining our perspective after the decisions had been made to not allow us to cover the event and to cancel the event moving forward. I cannot be clear enough that we never made any threats to any person or organization.

The possibility of losing a terrific event is an incredibly tough blow to our sport. It is an outcome that we never desired and never expected. One of the mistakes we made was failing to recognize how deeply the political divisions have primed each of us to turn healthy conflict into bitter strife. We are like mountain climbers crossing a snowfield — seeing fields of white snow all around us while massive chasms wait just beneath the surface for one wrong step to bring disaster.

Day in day out, I only hold our editorial team to one standard: did you do what you thought was right for the sport? But there’s an implied second question — did you do it in what you thought was the right way? I honestly believe that, in pursuing a private conversation through proper channels, we were trying to not only stand up for what we thought was right, but do so in a way that upheld our values of seeking understanding and unity. We only went public after the situation had, to our dismay, exploded. It remains to be seen what the long-term cost to EN will be. But the editorial team lived up to their mandate in a way that makes me incredibly proud to be their leader.

This background is important not to defend ourselves but to provide context for the choices in front of all of us. The positive changes that I genuinely believe almost all of us seek are only possible if we first figure out how to address conflict while staying united as a community. A great number of us must radically put aside our frustrations and anger and come together to have tough conversations rather than rapidly escalating into anger and attacks. The great paradox is that conversation is not enough. We must care for our principles enough that they make a difference and simultaneously care for each other enough that unity thrives amidst change.

Like any sport, eventing is largely controlled by a few key people. We can’t control how those folks will respond, but we can control how we will respond. And so, with a sense of humility that is easily achieved amidst the bumpiness of this week, I submit a few principles that we at EN are committed to:

1) Seek first to understand. We should have asked more questions before advocating for our position.
2) Assume positive intent. I can see how people felt attacked by our request. We should have done an even better job of emphasizing that we were advocating for a change to a name rather than putting forth any perspective about history or people.
3) We don’t demand that everyone be as passionate about diversity as we are open to the critique that we pursue this issue with too much zeal.
4) Try to deal with issues privately and directly rather than publicly. One of the big questions in my mind is whether we would have handled this better by going directly to the event. It’s hard to say, but I think it’s a good general principle to avoid having someone else tell your story.
5) Stay away from flame wars on social media and in comment sections. Conflict only begets more conflict. Anger only begets more anger.
6) Do the right thing and applaud when others do the right thing. Stand up for what you believe in but keep an open heart and mind. Chinch isn’t afraid to speak his mind, and we love that about him, but it’s easy to put on blinders in these situations.
7) Recognize and value all of our sport’s myriad participants and stakeholders.
8) Be kind. If we want EN to be a safe and welcoming space for all, we must set that precedent through our own behavior.
9) Whatever our position or approach yesterday, it can change right now, at this very moment, for the better.
10) Keep red on right, white on left, and insanity in the middle.

As the world changes, change is coming for our sport as well. This is neither the first nor last time we’re going to be faced with a difficult and divisive issue. But going forward we can choose to invest our energy in attacking the issue rather than one another.

It’s time to dismantle the fences that have gone up this week within and throughout our community. We’ll hope you’ll join us in beginning that process.

Now more than ever, Go Eventing.

Tamie Smith and Danito Lead Twin Rivers CCI4*S

By on Sep 18, 2020 11:30 am -

No rust evident from COVID's long break for Twin Rivers' top contenders after today's international dressage. Tamie…

Posted by Twin Rivers Ranch, Equestrian Events on Thursday, September 17, 2020

The first FEI event of the 2020 season for the West coast contingent of eventers kicked off this week at Twin Rivers Ranch in Paso Robles, California. Twin Rivers, owned and operated by the Baxter family, has been a staple on the Area VI calendar and was slated to host its first CCI4*L this spring. Sadly, the coronavirus pandemic forced the cancelation of multiple events worldwide, and the Twin CCI4*L was one such victim.

Nonetheless, eventers can enjoy the fresh new cross country track and multiple other facility upgrades that are always ongoing at Twin this weekend, were FEI divisions from CCI2*S through CCI4*S are running in conjunction with National and Future/Young Event Horse classes.

Tamie Smith and Danito were the cream of the crop on day one of the CCI4*S, earning a 25.1 from judges to secure the overnight lead ahead of second placed Erin Kellerhouse and Woodford Reserve (28.8). Tamie rounds out the top three aboard her daughter’s horse, Passepartout (29.1).

Owned by Ruth Bley, the 11 year old Hanoverian gelding Danito stepped up to the Advanced level at this venue in September of 2019. Tamie and Danito began their partnership in 2018, making steady progress through the levels and picking up a second place finish in the Intermediate division at the American Eventing Championships in 2019. Competitive dressage scores seem to be the chestnut’s jam – each of his Advanced scores this year have come in below 24.0.

EN talent-spotted Woodford Reserve awhile back when the eye-catching Irish Sport Horse gelding was picking up top placings at the Preliminary level. This is another horse newer to the Advanced level, having made the move up earlier this year and finishing second in his debut at Woodside. Piloted by Erin Kellerhouse throughout his American career, the 9 year old gelding also has a prowess for low dressage scores. Be sure to keep an eye out for this one on tomorrow’s cross country (don’t forget to check out the Twin Rivers live stream provided by Ride On Video here).

Rise and shine for this morning's new XC tracks, new jumps, new locations for familiar jumps and new ideas from designer…

Posted by Twin Rivers Ranch, Equestrian Events on Friday, September 18, 2020

Kaylawna Smith-Cook’s Passepartout, piloted by Tamie during Kaylawna’s maternity leave, made his Advanced debut at Twin Rivers this past February and also picked up a win here in the Advanced/Intermediate in July. “Pasco” is also a strong cross country contender who should be competitive in both jumping phases.

Looking to the CCI3*S division, it’s Australia’s Rebecca Braitling leading the charge aboard Arnell Sporthorses’ Caravaggio II on a score of 30.6. This is a personal best score at the CCI3*S level for Caravaggio II, a 9 year old British Sporthorse gelding. Rebecca also holds second place aboard Pamela Duffy-Trotter’s Sunsprite Kirschblute 3 on a score of 31.7 in the 11 year old Trakehner mare’s debut at the level.

Rounding out the top three in the CCI3*S are Tamie Smith and Solaguayre California, owned by Julianne Guariglia. This pair earned a 32.3 from the judges in the 9 year old Argentine Sporthorse/Holsteiner mare who is always striking to watch.

Finally in the CCI2*S, Haley Turner and Shadow Inspector lead the way on an FEI personal best score of 26.8 in their third start at the level. Lauren Burnell and her own Counterpoint take second into today’s show jumping on a score of 29.0, followed by Olivia Loiacono-Putrino and Petey Pablo (29.7).

To learn more about who EN’s number-cruncher, Maggie Deatrick, has identified as pairs to watch this weekend, don’t miss our By the Numbers for the CCI4*S here. You can also watch the live stream and, if you’re competing at Twin this weekend, order your own competition video from Ride On Video here. Finally, please support your show photographers who will be out shooting en masse this weekend! Twin Rivers riders, you can visit MGO Photography for your show photo needs this weekend.

Twin Rivers Fall International: [Website] [Ride Times & Live Scores]

Who Jumped It Best? GMHA Junior Training Edition

By on Sep 18, 2020 9:00 am -

Our latest edition of Who Jumped It Best?, provided generously as ever by Joan Davis of Flatlandsfoto, comes to us from GMHA’s September Horse Trials.

Located in South Woodstock, Vermont, GMHA is a much loved event for Area I eventers and other equestrians alike, hosting several events in various disciplines throughout each year. Joan Davis and Flatlandsfoto are another Area I staple – don’t forget to view and order your show proofs here.

Here’s your latest selection of riders to vote for the best overall impression presented by horse and rider. Cast your vote in the poll below, which will close in one week. Best of luck to all riders.

Madison Blodgett and Molto Al Dente:

Madison Blodgett and Molto Al Dente. Photo courtesy of Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

June Clark and Dealin’ Diamonds:

June Clark and Dealin’ Diamonds. Photo courtesy of Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Sydney Gallien and Beau Voyager:

Sydney Gallien and Beau Voyageur. Photo courtesy of Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Amanda Gardiner and Miller’s Law:

Amanda Gardiner and Miller’s Law. Photo courtesy of Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Samantha Morse and Fionnghuala:

Samantha Morse and Fionnghuala. Photo courtesy of Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Annabelle Sprague and All In:

Annabelle Sprague and All In. Photo courtesy of Joan Davis/Flatlandsfoto.

Friday News & Notes from World Equestrian Brands

By on Sep 18, 2020 12:03 am -

 

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🍰With ‘The Great British Bake Off’ contestants recently announced, we were delighted to receive these photos from a young Eventing fan who entered a competition at her school to bake and decorate a cake to reflect a sporting event they were missing during 2020. 🐴Mimi (aged 11) chose to base her bake on Badminton Horse Trials because it is her favourite weekend of the year and it is her ambition to compete here in the future. She has been a regular Badminton visitor since she was 3. 😋There are 3 sections reflecting each discipline; apparently cross country tasted the best! For the creative fans amongst you all, there will be a chance to get inventive with Badminton in mind in the coming months… #greatbritishbakeoff #GBBO #badmintonhorsetrials

A post shared by Badminton Horse Trials (@bhorsetrials) on

This week has been a rough one emotionally for the eventing community. I am still hopeful that we can improve with kindness and empathy towards all sides, and remember that we are all part of a big family that cares about one another. Let me repeat that, we care. We care a lot. That’s all for today.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Apple Knoll Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status]

Meadowcreek Park Fall Social Event: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times]

Sundance Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

Twin Rivers Fall International: [Website] [Entry Status/Ride Times]

News From Around the Globe:

EN has sadly had some of its sponsors drop off in the fall-out of the Unionville venue’s cancellation. In response, we will be donating these vacated spaces to organizations that are doing good work in the equestrian world. Have a suggestion? Please send it to [email protected].

Even after earning her bachelor of science in microbiology from the University of Vermont, Ariel Grald wasn’t sure that the normal 9-5 life was for her. So she packed her bags and moved to Southern Pines to pursue her dreams of upper level eventing, and the rest is history. Her story is definitely worth reading. [Ariel Grald: Eventing to the Top]

Serious questions around the use of nosebands have been raised by the findings of a new study, in which head x-rays revealed bone lesions on the nasal bones and lower jaws of horses. The bony changes — thickening or thinning — were identified at the site typically subjected to pressure from restrictive nosebands. The causes of the lesions seen at the site of nosebands merit further investigation, they said, because inadvertently damaging the bones of horses as part of equitation is difficult to justify on ethical grounds. [Bone Damage in Horses at Site of Noseband]

After a group of children were unable to return to Myanmar to continue their education, The Good Shepherd Centre in Phuket Town set up a program of support. They were, and are still, seeking the support of additional volunteers to help teach the children basic English, simple computer skills, maths, art and craft etc for just an hour a week. Red Bamboo stepped in to offer a complimentary Beginners Riding Class to all the students and to raise awareness of the plight of the students. [Local Horse Riding School Helping Forgotten Children]

Want to win some FLAIR strips? Today is your last chance! We’re giving away two six-packs to a lucky winner this week. All you need to do to enter is submit a photo of your favorite FLAIR strip color – details can be found here.

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