Classic Eventing Nation

Will Coleman Claims Intermediate A + More Top Results from Blue Mountain Ridge H.T.

By on Sep 14, 2020 8:38 am -

Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

In the Open Intermediate A Division, Will Coleman (Charlottesville, VA) continued his winning streak by clinching first place overall aboard Chin Tonic HS, owned by Hyperion Stud, LLC, after placing first in all three phases with a final score of 37.20. Lucienne Elms (Campobello, SC) and her own Mistralou rose from thirteenth place to secure second with a final score of 33.80. In third place, Bobby Meyerhoff (Statesville, NC) and Lumumba, whom he owns with The Donovan Group, finished with 41.40.

“The Cross-Country course was great!” Coleman reported of the Captain Mark Phillips track. “I had a really nice go. [Chin Tonic HS] is still a little bit green, but he handled it well. I was really pleased with how he ran. He’s growing up and I’m excited about his future. Mark built a really great track, with plenty of good questions.”

Lucienne Elms and Mistralou. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

It was Coleman and Chin Tonic HS all the way this weekend, and while he acknowledged that a win felt nice, he’s got his eyes on the future ahead:

“It’s always nice to go home with a win, but more importantly, all of the horses behaved well and they’re happy about their job. In Chin Tonic’s case, he came out of it with a really good taste in his mouth.”

Bobby Meyerhoff and Lumumba. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Like many top-level competitors competing at the Blue Ridge Mountain Horse Trials presented by EquiSafe Global, Coleman will be returning in November for international competition at TIEC with a recent positive experience coming with him. “Hopefully we’ll just keep moving him up. It’s a long race and we’re nowhere near the finish line so to speak, but he keeps going in the right direction and we’re happy about that. I’m pleased for the horse and pleased for his owners. Hyperion Stud has been a great supporter of ours,” he concluded.

Liz Halliday-Sharp and Maryville Sir Henry. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp (Lexington, KY) and Maryville Sir Henry were untouchable all weekend in the Open Repliminary A Division, ending on a score of 28.50 after a clear Cross-Country run on the Captain Mark Phillips course design. Dominic Schramm (Cochranville, PA) and Quadrocana, the Quadrocana Syndicate-owned 2013 German Sport Horse mare (Quadrofino x Ituango XX), climbed to second by ending up on a score of 30.00 after all three phases, while Nilson da Silva (Aiken, SC) and Giana, the 2008 Oldenburg mare (Gatsby x Exetera) owned by Cindy Burke, improved their sixth place score to finish on 32.90 in third.

Halliday-Sharp and her own 2013 Irish Sport Horse gelding (Sir Shutterfly x Cavalier Royale) were up for the challenge on course, and he was “outstanding,” Halliday-Sharp reported. “I was really happy with him. I thought it rode really well, and all the courses were up to height this weekend, which was good. Mark [Phillips] always designs them that way, which I think is very good.

Dominic Schramm and Quadrocana. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

“I think this was, and particularly Intermediate, too, was one of the stronger tracks I’ve ridden for a long time. It was a bit stronger than we’ve seen since COVID in a few divisions, and that’s not a bad thing because maybe we need a kick in the [pants], and it’s given us a preview for what it’s going to be like in November.” Halliday-Sharp elaborated that the White Oak Cross-Country Course, also utilized at the FEI World Equestrian Games™ Tryon 2018, grabs rider attention even between fences. “It’s always quite intense here, because even when you’re not jumping you have so much undulation and different ground, so it always rides intense, and that side of it makes things more challenging sometimes.”

Nilson da Silva and Giana. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Halliday-Sharp will be bouncing back and forth between several competitions between now and the Tryon International Three Day-Event in November, but will have prepared her horses for the challenge by getting them to the venue in September, she concluded:

“I’m pretty busy between now and November. It’s insane, but we’re just trying to break up the rides so we don’t take ten horses to every event. It’s just better, especially when the upper level horses are running. The [Blue Ridge Mountain Horse Trials presented by EquiSafe Global] is a great event, and we love coming to this venue. It’s just so good for the horses to be in the big arena and experience all the atmosphere. It was an educational weekend for all!”

Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp and Shanoe Cooley. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp (Lexington, KY) maintained first place across all three phrases in the Open Training A Division on Cooley Farm’s Shanoe Cooley, earning a final score of 25.90. John Michael Durr (Shelby, NC) and Chantal Megchelenbrink’s No Matter What bumped up from third in phase one to second overall with a score of 26.80. Kimberly Keeton (Watkinsville, GA) and Amarula rounded out the podium with third place with a total score of 26.90.

Mary Carol Harsch and Theodore alCoda. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

In the Open Beginner Novice Division, Mary Carol Harsch (Chatt Hills, GA) took first place with her own Theodore alCoda with a three-day tally of 29.50. Morgan Batton (Aiken, SC) and Charmin, owned by Mickey Hayden, secured second place with a final score of 30.30. Third place went to Erin Flynn Mobley (Mansfield, GA) and Lauren Duhamel’s Fate’s Fine Magic with an overall score of 31.00.

To follow along with all our Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. coverage, click here.

Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC: Website, Entries, Ride Times, Live Scoring, Live Streaming, White Oak Course XC Maps

Monday News & Notes from Fleeceworks

By on Sep 14, 2020 7:29 am -

This year, we’ve seen event after event pull out of the 2020 calendar in the face of the pandemic. Some are busy making their plans for a return in 2021; some, sadly, have had to take stock of their assets and have discovered that there’s no more petrol in the tank for the future, closing their doors permanently. So it was extra special to pop over to Oxfordshire yesterday to see the fruit of the Cornbury International team’s labours in person. To sustain an event in 2020 is a remarkable thing — but to create one is something else entirely. I’ll be bringing you an in-depth look at how they did it this week, but in the meantime, enjoy this stunning shot from the incredible Sarah Farnsworth, who perfectly captured the magic atmosphere on the estate.

National Holiday: It’s National Peanut Day! If you have an allergy, maybe just consider this one a duvet day.

US Weekend Results:

UK Weekend Results:

Global Round-Up:

  • There was a plethora of CCI4*-S classes around the world over the weekend — Christchurch in New Zealand, Avenches in Switzerland, and Planernaya in Russia all hosted the level. Michael Jung (who?) took the CCI4*-S and CCI3*-S sections at Avenches, riding fischerChipmunk and Star Connection, respectively.

Your Monday Reading List:

From Darfur to rural Wiltshire, Sudanese refugee Abdul Musa Adam’s journey has been an extraordinary and painful one. These days, the talented rider is a stable lad for Andrew Balding Racing, but the road to get there has been littered with grief, torture, and unimaginably perilous border crossings to try to find safety. Now, he seeks sanctuary in the stables — but his search for his lost brother continues on. This heartbreaking story is the most important thing you’ll read this week — so sign up for your trial of H&H Plus and dive in. [H&H interview: Refugee Abdul Musa Adam on turning to horses]

For Bill Roycroft, the 1960 Olympics wasn’t too far off from the outlandish plot of a horsey film. But his story — from hospital bed to podium — is all true, and it’s a bonkers gem in the crown of eventing history. [From the Archives, 1960: Roycroft’s amazing ride at Rome Olympics]

A new film is on its way in 2021, focusing on the serious mental health issues that can plague jockeys. After the high-profile loss of several jockeys over the past few years, mental health awareness is on the up in the tough, fast-paced industry — but there’s still more to be done. The Fall aims to make tangible the issues facing riders. [‘It’s okay not to be okay’: Cold Feet star teams up with equine film company in new project]

Speaking of films, Idris Elba is set to star in a film set in an inner-city riding programme in Philadelphia. “It was a world that I knew nothing about,” says Elba. “I liked the idea that the cowboys have been around for so long nurturing youth and creating opportunities. These kids have cared for these horses as a deterrent to crime or drugs or other stuff that they might have fallen into.” [Idris Elba on ‘Concrete Cowboy’ and the Uplifting Indie’s Improbable Ride to the Toronto Film Festival]

Can TikTok be a bit of therapeutic fun, or is it the breeding ground for the internet trolls of tomorrow? Blogger Camilla Mortensen reflects on this question — and the classic ‘compliment sandwich’ technique — in her latest piece for COTH. [TikTok Trolls and the Compliment Sandwich]

How many of you have a side-hustle that allows you to make a bit more money to support your horse habit — or, indeed, gives you the chance to dabble with working in the industry? We’d guess a fair few — after all, horses are expensive beasts. But is it worth it, or are you just on a fast-track to burnout? [Is a Side Hustle in the Equestrian Industry Actually Worth It?]

What I’m Listening To:

I’ve been devouring the Young Black Equestrians podcast, which takes you across the disciplines to meet fascinating riders with brilliant stories to tell from around the world. I’m guilty of occasionally focusing a bit too heavily on my discipline of choice, and this pod has been a great way for me to branch back out and feel inspired by the variety the horse world has to offer.

 

The Fleeceworks Follow:

You can take the boy out of gymnastics, but you can’t take gymnastics out of the boy — as evidenced by British 5* rider Tom Crisp, who moonlights as a retained firefighter and previously enjoyed a successful stint as a child gymnast. Rumour has it he did a series of backflips across a drinks marquee at Houghton International to win the heart of his wife, Sophie…

Monday Viewing:

Can confirm that managing interviewees is often a little bit like this, no matter their age.

Matt Flynn & Doug Payne Take Home Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. Advanced Wins

By on Sep 13, 2020 8:57 pm -

Matt Flynn and Wizzerd. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Cross country day at the 2019 Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC proved to be influential. Doug Payne closed out a wire-to-wire win the in the B division, but he relinquished the A division to Matt Flynn.

Matt Flynn and Wizzerd were the first Advanced pair to come through the finish flags, and they made every second of their trip around the White Oak cross country course count. Their success this weekend, including finishing on a score of 40.9 has been the product of determined training in an unprecedented year.

The partnership started the weekend with a personal best on the flat, for which Matt credits Erik Duvander. “Dressage was great for him. Erik Duvander was kind enough to help warm me up, and he’s been working with the horse a lot this year. He’s really getting stronger and he put in a personal best for him at that level, so that was really exciting to start off with.”

Doug Payne has not been the only one bumping up his show jumping practice, Matt has joined him here for a few trips under the lights. “Show Jumping last night was really super. I was really happy with him in the Tryon Stadium. I came here a couple weeks ago with my buddy Doug [Payne] and have been doing some jumper shows on the road with his gang and working on that phase the past month or so, which felt really paid off, and I was happy with his round,” he said.

Of course no event is complete without the exhilarating cross country phase, and this pair will certainly be ones to watch when they return for the CCI4*-L in November. “Obviously it’s great to have the horses gallop on the terrain and see what it felt like. This was my first time running the event here in general, so that’s extremely valuable, and I think also in November I will continue to work to even ride more forward,” he said. “I thought it was a good track. It was definitely challenging, but it was sizeable enough that it was rewarding to a good, forward ride, which I think is good preparation for these horses coming back to do the CCI 4*-L here in November. My goal was to do my best to ride the forward lines and stay out of Wizzerd’s way and travel on more than I tend to, which is a goal I’ve been working to improve.”

Bobby Meyerhoff and Fortuna. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Bobby Meyerhoff and Fortuna, the 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare (Balou du Rouet x Consul) owned by Robert D. Meyerhoff, improved from sixth to second after cross country, ending on a score of 45.80. The mare left the box on fire, making sure Bobby had his hands full, but improved over each fence.

“It started out very nice, until fence five where I had a little hiccup, and the mare did an amazing save there, and we kicked on and got our groove back,” Bobby said. “From then on, the course jumped fairly nice. It was big and bold, and I felt the mare change her way of galloping and jumping the big tables, and she took me and felt great.”

Katherine Brown and Victor Z. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Katherine Brown only added 2.40 to her score to end up in third on a total of 52 riding her own Victor Z, the 9-year-old Zangersheide gelding (Vittorio x Concorde).

“My horse has a tremendous gallop, and I never looked at my watch,” she said, “but he just covers the ground so easily. I have a better mental image now. I’ll keep truckin’ along with some more fitness work and hopefully we’ll be back here in the fall a little bit later.”

Doug Payne and Vandiver. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Today did not start as Doug Payne expected. His first- and second-placed horses both saw trouble out on course, but as expected the experienced Vandiver stepped up to win in the B division. The 16-year-old Trakehner gelding (Windfall 2 x Mystic Replica XX) owned by Debi Crowley in partnership with Doug and Jessica Payne, ended on a score of 33.50.

In second place overnight, Doug came to grief at the B element, a skinny brush, with his first ride, Quantum Leap. He did not clear the flags, though he continued on course, and was eliminated. His A division leader, Starr Witness, misread the bank and skinny elements of the Lighthouse Water, picking up two stops to drop them out of the ribbons.

Speaking of experienced, the Olympic gold medalist Leslie Law finished up in second with Voltaire de Tre’, the 11-year-old Selle Francais gelding (Gentleman IV x Socrate de Chivre) owned by Tre’ Book, on 39.10. Rounding out the top three, Nilson da Silva and his own 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (Spirit House x Clonakality Hero), Rock Phantom, finished on a score of 49.

Across both divisions, no one could catch the time. With recent rains and footing that leaned toward slippery, this isn’t entirely surprising. Katherine Brown and Victor Z came the closest at 7:02, just six seconds over.

Of the 21 starters, 11 finished without jumping penalties for a clear rate of 52.4%. Issues on course focused around the Chimney Rock Complex (12ABC) and the White Table to Corner (18AB). The Chimney Rock Complex produced some gritty riding as the divisions continued when word traveled back that the slick ground made a tricky job even harder.

For all the nitty gritty details, check out our live updates.

Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC: Website, Entries, Ride Times, Live Scoring, Live Streaming, White Oak Course XC Maps

Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. Advanced XC Live Updates: Doug Payne & Matt Flynn Win

By on Sep 13, 2020 10:15 am -

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Good morning, EN! We are very excited to bring you live updates from the Advanced cross country at Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC. Doug Payne remains the one to beat as he’s leading both of these feature divisions, so we will keep a close eye on him this morning. Click here to catch up on our coverage.

Advanced competitors are up against 26 numbered fences over 3950 meters. The time to beat is 6 minutes and 56 seconds.

We will be here  keeping record of all the action as it happens, but you can also tune in and watch it live yourself at this link. The first rider leaves the box at 11 a.m., so join us then and keep refreshing this page for all the latest.

12:44 Doug Payne wins the Advanced division with Vandiver! Check back on EN for a full report later today.

12:34 Nilson finishes clear with a time of 7:33.

12:28 Nilson is clear through 4.

12:26 Nilson and Rock Phantom have left the startbox. He has the opportunity to finish in second place of the Advanced B division. He’s got about 12 seconds of wiggle room.

12:25 Matt Flynn and Wizzerd our our provisional winners of the Advanced B division.

12:23 Nilson has one final ride. He had to do a tack change, so he’s just warming up now. He’ll be the final Advanced rider on course.

12:22 Leslie Law finishes in 10.8 time penalties for a provisional score of 39.1. That should move him into second place of the B division.

12:18 Daniela finishes with no jumping faults in a time of 7:21.

12:17 A big jump nearly unseated Leslie at the middle element of the Chimney Rock, but the veteran competitor stuck it to jump clear.

12:16 Leslie Law and Voltaire De Tre are now with us on course. He’s clear through 10.

12:15 If you see Daniela this today make sure to wish her a Happy Birthday!

12:13 Ah, what a shame, Ann has missed fence 19 The Sunburst Table. This is actually her second time missing this table — she was eliminated for doing the same with her first horse — so I’d venture to say this one was skipped on the course walk.

12:12 Madeleine finishes clear with a time of 7:54.

12:11 Lovely trip through the water for Ann Goodwin.

12:11 Now we welcome Daniela Moguel and Cecelia riding for Mexico.

12:10 Madeleine and Crosby’s Gold are clear through 20.

12:08 Ann Goodwin is back with Fedarman B. She has a stop at the trakhener at 7A. She takes her time to determine her options, and she’s clear on the second try.

12:06 Madeleine Scott and Crosby’s Gold have a strong start. They’re clear through 10.

12:05 Ellie has a refusal at the corner at 17.

12:04 Doug Payne and Vandier finish clear with a time of 7:22. That gives a provisional 10.4 time penalties. 33.5 is his final score and right now it keeps him on top of the leaderboard.

12:03 Ellie elects to take the option in the Lighthouse water to give the green horse some time to see his surroundings. It’s a good choice for them and they have a great ride out.

12:01 Darn! Ellie misses the line at 7 and has a runout at the skinny after the trakhener.

12:01 Ellie O’Neal and Zick Zack are clear through 4.

12:00 Doug has conquered his demons from earlier rides. He and Vandiver are easily through the Chimney Rock and Lighthouse Water.

11:59 Doug and Vandiver clear through 8.

11:58 Hallie and Clien have a miscommunication at the boat in the Lighthouse Water. They just get there on a slightly off stride with an angled approach. Clien tries to find a way to get over it, but it doesn’t quite work. Hallie did pop out of the tack, but was up immediately and seems to be ok.

11:56 Doug Payne is out with division leader Vandiver. He did not have the finishes he wanted with his first two horses, so I’m sure he’ll leave the box more determined that ever.

11:55 Hallie Coon and Clien are off and away. They’re clear through 7.

11:54 Bobby Meyerhoff finishes just 18 seconds over for a current score of 45.8. He’s been one of the fastest so far.

11:50 Allison Springer and Business Ben finish with no jumping faults in a time of 7:39.

11:48 Nilson finishes with 20 jumping and a time of 7:48.

11:47 Fortuna is full of energy for Bobby Meyerhoff. They have a sticky moment at fence five, but make it a great save.

11:45 Nilson has had a runout at the corner at 18. This one is catching quite a few competitors today.

11:45 Allison Springer and Business Ben are out on course. They’re clear through 6.

11:44 Nilson with a great shot at this stone wall:

11:44 Megan Sykes finishes clear in a time of 7:25

11:42 Wow! Really lovely ride for Megan and Classic’s Mojah through the Blue Table + Corner at 18.

11:42 Ashlynn and Emporium finish in a time of 7:52.

11:41 Nilson is back with his second ride, Lady Colina.

11:39 Ashlynn has a sketchy moment but gets it done at the tricky corner at 18.

11:39 Megan Sykes and Classic’s Mojah are our next starters.

11:38 Ashlynn is the first rider to take the option in the Lighthouse Water. They have a very classy ride through there.

11:38 Katherine Brown finished with a clear round aboard Victor Z in a time of 7:02.

11:37 Ashlynn Meuchel and Emporium have had a strong start here.

11:35 Whitney and Military Mind have a second runout at 24, the MIM table. That’s disappointing just two from home.

11:35 Katherine Brown and Victor Z are having a cracking ride. They’re clear the Lighthouse Water.

11:34 Whiney has one runout at the corner at 18.

11:33 Ann Goodwin unfortunately did not jump fence 19, the Sunburst Table. She’s been pulled up at fence 23 and will be eliminated.

11:31 Military Mind is full of run for Whitney, and she works hard to be successful through the Lighthouse Water.

11:30 Ann Goodwin has a runout at the Blue Table Corner at 18

11:29 Now we welcome Whitney Mahloch and Military Mind on course.

11:28 Ann and Mettraise have one of the best rides through the tricky Chimney Rock complex.

11:26 Ann Goodwin is clear through four with Mettraise.

11:21 Doug has had another stop at the D element after making it up the bank. He is clear over the option. Looks like he’s opting to continue.

11:20 Doug has had a stop at the C element at the Lighthouse water, a bank up.

11:19 Leslie Law and First Class finish with 20 jump penalties in a time of 8 minutes and 21 seconds.

11:18 Doug Payne is out with division leader Starr Witness.

11:15 Leslie Law and First Class have a bobble through the final element of the Chimney Rock complex. He circles to represent.

11:06 Matt Flynn is the first through the finish flags in 7:30, 34 seconds over.

11:05 Nilson has a runout on the final element of the Chimney Rock Complex. He’s successful on the second attempt.

11:03 Nilson da Silva and Magnum’s Martini starting strong around the lake. It also looks like Doug has heard about his elimination and has pulled up.

11:02 Matt Flynn and Wizzerd are clear through the water.

11:02 Doug Payne has jumped outside the flag at middle element of the chimney rock complex with Quantum Leap. Because he continued, he will be eliminated.

10:43 Looks like we’ve had two riders withdraw before cross country: Kyle Carter with Reddy or Not and Gaby Ruane with Lismakeera Brewski. Both of these pairs were in the Advanced B division.

Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC: Website, Entries, Ride Times, Live Scoring, Live Streaming, White Oak Course XC Maps

Doug Payne Still on Top in Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. Advanced Divisions

By on Sep 13, 2020 9:30 am -

Doug Payne and Starr Witness. Photo by Shannon Brainkman Photography.

Double overnight leader Doug Payne looks like he’s gotten quite comfortable at the top of both Advanced divisions at Blue Ridge Mountain Horse Trials at TIEC presented by EquiSafe Global. After three clear rounds in the show jumping, it doesn’t look like he has any plans to leave here without two blue ribbons.

Starr Witness, the 9-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare (Chello III VDL x Veneur) owned in partnership with Catherine Winter and Laurie McRee, added nothing to her Dressage score to remain first in the A division with a 25.70 heading into cross country. The same was true for Quantum Leap, the 9-year-old Zweibrücker gelding (Quite Capitol x Corporate Report) owned by Doug and Jessica Payne, adding nothing to their 26.10 Dressage score to hold onto second place.

“These two are both stepping up to the level,” he said of his Advanced A mounts after touring the Chris Barnard course design. “Quantum [Leap] has had a little more experience than Starr Witness, but both of those guys responded really well and I think they benefited from the time we spent here in the summer.”

Matt Flynn and Wizzerd. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Matthew Flynn improved from fourth to third, riding Wizzerd to a clear round to keep his original score of 27.30 aboard Patrick Flynn, Kathleen Flynn, and Merry Go Round Farm’s 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding (Wizzerd WV x Oklund).

Doug Payne and Vandiver. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Doug’s untouched score of 23.10 with Vandiver, the 2004 Trakehner gelding (Windfall 2 x Mystic Replica XX) owned by Debi Crowley in partnership with Doug and Jessica Payne kept them atop the Advanced B division.

The remainder of the leading trio also remained unchanged after Show Jumping, with Hallie Coon (Ocala, FL) on 26.90 aboard Celien, the 2007 Dutch Warmblood mare (VDL Tenerife x Hamlet) owned in partnership with Helen Coon, and Ann Goodwin (Aiken, SC) in third on a score of 28.00 after two phases with her own Fedarman B, the 2010 Dutch Warmblood gelding (Eurocommerce Washington x Fedor).

“Vandiver has never jumped better, honestly,” Payne emphasized. “He just keeps getting stronger and stronger, and he’s just got about the biggest heart of any horse I’ve ever had. It’s getting to be a lot of fun with him, actually, because he’s so reliable and jumping great.”

The Advanced divisions head out on Capt. Mark Phillips’ cross country course today beginning at 10:57 a.m. We will have live updates right here on EN, so check back for minute-by-minute action. For more information on how to watch ALL divisions live, click here.

Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC: Website, Entries, Ride Times, Live Scoring, Live Streaming, White Oak Course XC Maps

 

Sunday Links from One K Helmets

By on Sep 13, 2020 12:01 am -

View this post on Instagram

After a week of testing and monitoring Ellie, we received the wonderful news that everything appears “normal”. We are really surprised that they can make such a bold statement considering her parents. 🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️She has no significant abnormalities. Although they can't promise she won’t have any problems, they basically think she should not have any developmental issues 👏👏👏 This was the best information ever! She truly is a miracle. Thanks to everyone for their prayers, calls, and texts. Much love and we are extremely thankful for everyone’s care and support. Hopefully Ellie will be home in time for plantation field to cheer on her dad! Buck and Andrea

A post shared by Buck Davidson 🇺🇸 (@buckdavidson) on

Congratulations to Andrea and Buck Davidson on the arrival of their daughter Emelia Elizabeth Davidson. “Ellie” has spent some time at Children’s Healthcare of Philadelphia after her birth last week, but we are so pleased to see that healthcare providers have said her results are currently “normal.” Our thoughts and prayers are with the family as they continue to celebrate this most special addition.

National Holiday: National International Helmet Awareness Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Live Stream]

CDCTA Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Flora Lea Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Flying Cross Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entries/ Ride Times/ Live Scores]

GMHA Summer H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Ocala Summer H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Otter Creek Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Live Scores] [Live Scores]

The Event at Skyline: [Website] [Entries] [Live Scores]

Stone Gate Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Sunday Links: 

Mind Your Melon AND Do Good: SmartPak’s Buy a Helmet, Give a Helmet Event

What I’d Tell My Younger Self: Life With Post-Concussion Syndrome Isn’t Worth the Ribbons

Nation Media Awards $5,400 in Diversity Scholarships

Making Eventing Work For You

Arena Eventing with Gemma Tattersall

How To Encourage Proper Bend In The Horse

From Board Bills to Babies on Board: The Real Scoop On Riding After Kids

Weekly OTTB Wishlist from Cosequin: Make 2020 Over

By on Sep 12, 2020 2:00 pm -

Photo courtesy of the Retired Racehorse Project.

You’ve got to give the fine folks at the Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) some major props for embracing the misfortune at is the entirety of 2020 and making the best of it. Their biggest event of the year, the Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, was scheduled to be held this October but fell victim to the flurry of event cancellations asa result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet with an important mission still to accomplish — that of promoting finding second careers for ex-racehorses — the RRP has had, like many other organizations, to adapt and overcome the hurdles of 2020.

RRP has already announced that next year’s Thoroughbred Makeover will be double the fun and will include classes for both 2020 and 2021 eligible horses, the Makeover Marketplace will take place in a virtual format this year, they recently wrapped up an OTTB themed meme contest (check out the winners here for a laugh), and most recently they have announced their Make 2020 Over Virtual 5k which features the best race T-shirt that I’ve ever seen, frankly. You can receive the T-shirt by registering for the virtual race by October 7th. Not a runner, but still want the shirt? Heck, register anyway. It’s 2020 and we’re not going to judge! You’ll still be supporting the RRP’s mission after all.

You don’t have to wait until October to shop the Makeover Marketplace, though. Checkout these three eye-catching OTTBs who are currently listed:

Dazzling Deputy. Photo via RRP Makeover Marketplace.

Dazzling Deputy (GIANT GIZMO – CAM’S COUSIN, BY SILVER DEPUTY): 2013 16.1-hand Ontario-bred gelding

“Kind, attentive & brave gelding, which gives him the potential to excel in many directions. His training has focused on Dressage and Competitive Trail; however, he has also been started over fences and is schooling up to 2’. His level head would make him an excellent prospect as a Field Hunter or Eventer, and his eager-to-please temperament makes him suitable for a junior or adult amateur rider. He has both leads, but his right lead transition is currently a work in progress as he prefers to get into it through a flying change. We were planning on taking him to some historical reenactments this Fall, which is why you will notice a clip of us gun training him; he is literally bomb-proof! UTD on everything and microchipped. Big, strong feet. Has been approved to compete in RRP 2020 classes in Oct. 2021. Gets along well with other geldings. No vices.”

Located in Indianapolis, Indiana.

View Dazzling Deputy on the Makeover Marketplace.

Straightaway May. Photo via RRP Makeover Marketplace.

Straightaway May (HIGH COTTON – MAY RIVER, BY GULCH): 2014 16.1-hand Florida-bred gelding

“This sweet guy could easily step into any ring you ask him to. He will jump anything you put in front of him without hesitation, whether it’s in the hunter ring, jumper ring, or hacking out on the cross country course. He leads the way out on trails and enjoys a good snuggle. Incredibly brave, a quick learner, and always willing to please. Has local show miles, currently showing in 2’-2’6″ hunters, and has been schooled over starter height cross country jumps.”

Located in Archer, Florida.

View Straightaway May on the Makeover Marketplace.

Beat Yesterday. Photo via RRP Makeover Marketplace.

Beat Yesterday (MISSION IMPAZIBLE – RAH RAH, BY RAHY): 2015 15.3-hand New York-bred gelding

“Meet Beat Yesterday, who will be competing in the hunters/jumpers. But don’t let that fool you, this boy’s movements would get him noticed in the dressage ring as well. He hacks out alone, trail rides, goes bitless or in a rubber nathe. He has been started over jumps, participated in beginner walk/trot lessons, bathes and stands for the farrier. His sweet disposition would be an asset to any barn. He is our kids’ favorite snuggle bug and trail mount. Beats has gone in western and english tack although he is being trained predominantly hunter/jumper.”

Located in Bedford, Pennsylvannia.

View Beat Yesterday on the Makeover Marketplace.

Snag These Sweet Deals to Celebrate International Helmet Awareness Day

By on Sep 12, 2020 1:50 pm -

Allison Springer was the first five-star rider to compete while wearing a helmet in the dressage phase. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Wearing a properly fitted helmet is more than a fashion statement, it’s protecting your most important asset: YOU!

If you are looking to add to your rotation, or maybe you need to replace an older one (If you had a fall recently — consider this your sign to buy a new helmet!), this weekend is the time to do it. Held September 12-13, International Helmet Awareness Day is here to encourage all riders to mind your melons.

Our friends at SmartPak are celebrating with discounts of up to 20% off your favorite helmet brands including Charles Owen, One K, Uvex, Samshield and more! In addition, they’re offering their first-ever Buy a Helmet, Give a Helmet event. For every helmet purchased, SmartPak will donate one to a deserving organization like Ebony Horsewomen, CBC Equine, UpReach Therapeutic Equestrian Center, Inc., Hearts & Horses (PATH Certified), Philadelphia Urban Riding Academy (PURA), and Horse SenseAbility.

Shop SmartPak here.

For a refresher, here’s how you can make sure you’re buying a properly fitted helmet:

How to Shop for a Helmet

Are you ready for International Helmet Awareness Day? We sure are! To help you find the best helmet for your head shape and hairstyle, we even have a new video for you: How to Shop for a HelmetWant to learn more about helmet fit? Read more here: https://blog.smartpakequine.com/2010/04/how-to-fit-a-helmet/

Posted by SmartPak on Friday, September 11, 2020

More International Helmet Awareness Day Deals:

20% off One K Helmets through Participating Retailers

Up to 50% off Selected Brands from Riding Warehouse

Click here to find a participating retailer near you

Have you got even more deals? We want to hear about them. Drop us a note in the comments.

 

Saturday Links from Nupafeed USA

By on Sep 12, 2020 12:01 am -

Photo via Colleen Rutledge Eventing on Facebook.

Houston, we have lift off! Check out Paul Just Paul, ridden by 12-year-old Ciana Rutledge, taking a long spot at a schooling show at Waredaca earlier this week. I don’t know about you, but I think I would toppled off of this rocket ship backwards. Meanwhile Ciana here is sitting perfectly chilly. You go, Ciana!

National Holiday: National Day of Encouragement

U.S. Weekend Action:

Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores] [Live Stream]

CDCTA Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Flora Lea Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Flying Cross Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entries/ Ride Times/ Live Scores]

GMHA Summer H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Ocala Summer H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Otter Creek Fall H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Live Scores] [Live Scores]

The Event at Skyline: [Website] [Entries] [Live Scores]

Stone Gate Farm H.T.: [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Live Scores]

Overseas Livestream Hookup:  Cornbury House Horse Trails Live Stream

Saturday Links:

Mind Your Melon AND Do Good: SmartPak’s Buy a Helmet, Give a Helmet Event

How To Encourage Proper Bend In The Horse

The Lameness Exam: What to Expect When Your Veterinarian Arrives

Nation Media Awards $5,400 in Diversity Scholarships

‘It’s okay not to be okay’: Cold Feet star teams up with equine film company in new project

Stronach Group To End Playing Of ‘Maryland, My Maryland’ At Preakness Stakes

Just in on Jumper Nation: Maintenance Programs: How Do You Balance Hope with What Really Works?

Saturday Video: Doug Paynes leads both Advanced section after dressage at Blue Ridge Mountain H.T.

Double Duty for Doug Payne in Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC Advanced Divisions

By on Sep 11, 2020 9:26 pm -

Doug Payne and Starr Witness. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Doug Payne has the Advanced divisions cornered at the Blue Ridge Mountain Horse Trials at TIEC presented by EquiSafe Global. Two first placed spots and one second place position makes him the man to beat after the first phase.

Doug grabbed the top two spots in the Test A section with his Pan American Games partner Starr Witness, the 9-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare (Chello III VDL x Veneur) owned in partnership with Catherine Winter and Laurie McRee, receiving a 25.70. Quantum Leap, the 9-year-old Zweibrücker gelding (Quite Capitol x Corporate Report) owned by Doug and Jessica Payne, earned a 26.10 to slot just behind.

Doug Payne and Vandiver. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.He scored 23.10 with Vandiver, a 16-year-old Trakehner (Windfall II X Visions of Grandeur, by Mystic Replica xx) owned by Debi Crowley, Doug and his wife Jessica Payne, to top the Test B section.

In striking distance behind Payne, Whitney Mahloch (Ocala, FL) rode Military Mind, her own 14-year-old Thoroughbred gelding (Military x Beau Genius), to a 26.60 in the A section, with Hallie Coon (Ocala, FL) also coming in sub-27 with a 26.90 aboard Celien, the 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare (VDL Tenerife x Hamlet) owned in partnership with Helen Coon, in the B section.

Doug has become a regular at Tryon in both the eventing and show jumping disciplines.  “We were planning to go to the AECs before that got canceled, and they’ve been here jumping. Vandiver was the 1.30m champion and Starr Witness was the 1.20m champion here recently. We try to bring them places – we may be a little bit different probably from a lot of eventers in that we don’t go to all that many events. We try to pick the best quality of competitions with good venue, courses and footing, and then we supplement that by taking them on the road with the jumpers. I think there’s a lot of value in putting them into a bigger environment more frequently. Then, as they get more comfortable with that, I think you’re more likely to get what you can get at home in a competitive environment.

Doug Payne and Quantum Leap. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

“I really couldn’t be much happier with any of them. You’ve got to look at the bright side, and I think the time that we had during the COVID suspension of competition obviously worked well for our horses. Quinn [Vandiver], the older one, just keeps getting stronger and better as we go. And the two younger horses, I think in a little bit of time are going to be superstars. It’s a lot of fun to see them start to be able to put it all together, which we’ve been working towards for a while,” he said.

This event was a strategic stop for Payne as he’s using it to prep for November’s international competition at TIEC. “In a perfect world, I don’t want to add anything to those scores,” he said. “They haven’t done cross country in a while, but I think all are capable of being near to the time. I’m not trying to go totally crazy. All these guys and Baymax, who’s in the Intermediate, are all aiming to come to the Tryon International Three-Day Event in November to do the CCI3*-L and CCI4*-L. We will go reasonably fast, and jumping-wise, we will try and just knock the rust off and go from there.”

The Advanced group picks up again tomorrow evening starting at 5:29 p.m. local for show jumping under the lights. For more information on how to watch ALL divisions live, click here.

Blue Ridge Mountain H.T. at TIEC: Website, Entries, Ride Times, Live Scoring, Live Streaming, White Oak Course XC Maps