Classic Eventing Nation

Adequan Is Making It Rain on Eventers With Futures Team Challenge, AEC Sponsorships

By on Jul 15, 2020 10:24 am -

Thank you, Adequan, for your continued support of our sport! The makers of those little vials of i.m. polysulfated glycosaminoglycan that keep our horses’ joints feeling their best never fail to step up when we need them most, and on that note they have two big announcements this week:

Clear (or even clear-ish) round, big check, can’t lose! The stakes have been raised for the $60,000 Adequan USEA Advanced Final at the 2020 USEA American Eventing Championships presented by Nutrena Feeds, making it an irresistible draw for qualified horses and riders.

$60,000! Why wouldn’t you show up for this? Not only does the winner receive a fat $30,000 check, this year the remainder of the pot will be distributed as such that any competitor through 25th place will go home with at least enough prize money to cover their entry fee.

  • Champion: $30,000
  • Reserve Champion: $10,000
  • 3rd place: $5,000
  • 4th place: $2,500
  • 5th place: $1,000
  • 6th place: $800
  • 7th place: $750
  • 8th place: $600
  • 9th place through 25th place: $550 (entry fee) each

“We wanted to switch things up a bit and offer anyone that finishes the Advanced in the top 25 to at least get their $550 entry fee back,” explained USEA CEO Rob Burk in the announcement today here. “We’re giving back to more competitors who are able to show up and complete the division. The Champion and Reserve Champion will still walk away with the same large checks as we offered in 2019. This wouldn’t be possible without the support of Adequan and continues our tradition of giving back 100 percent of AEC sponsorship dollars received back to the AEC competitors.”

To qualify, competitors need to complete a minimum of two events without cross country jump penalties at any USEA Advanced horse trials, CCI4*-S, CCI4*-L , or CCI5*-L between March 1, 2019 and Aug. 18, 2020. A list of qualifying events can be viewed here.

AEC entries opened yesterday. Click here for all the info on this year’s event, taking place Aug. 25-30 athe Kentucky Horse Park.

[$60,000 Adequan USEA Advanced Final Extends Purse: Guarantees Entry Fee Back Through 25th Place!]

Also today, US Equestrian announced Adequan as a Title Sponsor for the USEF Futures Team Challenge for Eventing – West and East Coasts. The Futures Team Challenge is a component of the U.S. Eventing Pathway Program that offers athletes the opportunity to compete in a simulated team competition under the guidance of U.S. Performance Director Erik Duvander and U.S. Development and Emerging Coach Leslie Law.

It’s great to see Adequan investing not only in the top eventers of today, but in the top eventers of tomorrow as well. In addition to the USEF Futures Team Challenge, Adequan has been title sponsor of the North American Youth Championships for Eventing (sadly canceled this year).

“The Futures Team Challenge illustrates US Equestrian Federation’s dedication to continually advancing the eventing discipline,” says Allyn Mann, Director of Strategic Partnerships, American Regent Animal Health. “We share that dedication, which is why it’s such an honor to be involved in this unique opportunity to support the sport by helping prospective eventing team athletes elevate their skills.”

“We’re thrilled to have Adequan’s support as the new title sponsor of the USEF Futures Team Challenge for Eventing,” says US Equestrian CEO Bill Moroney. “Many of our eventing athletes depend on Adequan® i.m. to help keep their horses’ joints healthy so they can perform at their peak. It’s a natural fit to have Adequan’s support of this key component of our U.S. Eventing Pathway Program.”

The 2020 Futures Team Challenge events are scheduled for the Plantation Field International CCI4*-S and CCI3*-S (Sept. 17-20 in Unionville, Pa.) and Galway Downs International CCI4*-L and CCI3*-L (Oct. 29-Nov. 1 in Temecula, Calif.).

[US Equestrian Welcomes Adequan® as Title Sponsor for the USEF Futures Team Challenge for Eventing]

Thank you, Adequan! Learn more at the website here.

Take 5 With Phillip, Presented by Equilume: Remembering True Blue Girdwood

By on Jul 15, 2020 8:00 am -

Wandering way back down Memory Lane today….I feel incredibly fortunate to have had True Blue Girdwood a.k.a. Jughead…

Posted by Phillip Dutton Eventing on Thursday, July 9, 2020

It’s hard now to think of Phillip Dutton as anything other than a stalwart of Team USA, but way back before he was a star of U.S. eventing he was a star of Australian eventing. The Equilume sponsored rider represented Australia in three Olympics and four World Championships before becoming an American citizen and changing his competitive nationality in 2006.

True Blue Girdwood, an Australian-bred OTTB (Loosen Up x Paramel) affectionately known as “Jughead,” was Phillip’s first team horse, and the partner with whom he made a name for himself stateside after moving to the U.S. in 1991.

Photo courtesy of Phillip Dutton Eventing.

From Phillip: “True Blue Girdwood came over with me to the U.S.; we literally flew over together. I’ve sometimes heard people say that there are certain things that happen in your life — like going to college or meeting someone — that change your life forever. For me, Jug is one of these cases. If I hadn’t had a good horse like that when I started in this country, I’m not sure my career would have been as successful.

“He first represented Australia at The Hague in 1994, and then was on the Australian team at the Atlanta Olympics, where he was second-best horse and won team gold. Later, he competed at the 1998 World Championships in Italy and had a couple of great finishes at Badminton — an incredible feat for me early in my career — and he was third at Rolex. After the ’98 WEG, we didn’t compete too much; he competed at the lower levels for several years before he retired at our house in Pennsylvania to live out his days.”

In addition to his riders, Jug was well loved by many including his veterinarians Kevin Keane and Denis Goulding; his groom, Colby Saddington; his coach, Wayne Roycroft; his farrier, Dave Kumpf and his co-owner, Annie Jones.

Jug died peacefully on Thanksgiving Day in 2009 at home in his paddock in West Grove, Pennsylvania. He was 25.

Equilume is an Irish equine biotech company providing scientifically validated lighting solutions to the global equine industry. Their patented blue light technology strengthens circadian rhythms and has profound effects on equine health and behaviour.

The Equilume Cashel Light Mask is an individual headpiece that provides timed, low-level blue light to a single eye throughout the day to stimulate optimum health, performance and coat condition.

The Equilume Stable Light provides horses with biologically effective light in a system that replicates the benefits of Nature’s light indoors, designed to maximise health, performance and breeding efficiency for stabled horses.

Equilume products are backed by science and trusted by equestrians and veterinarians worldwide. 

Wednesday News & Notes from Ecovet

By on Jul 15, 2020 12:01 am -

Happy news to begin the day, as the Ebony Horse Club in Brixton outside of London has officially been able to reopen its doors. The coronavirus pandemic and ensuring shutdowns have affected many similar organizations, which is a tough dilemma as so many thrive on their access to programs such as the Ebony Horse Club. Now more than ever, these programs need assistance to ensure they can remain in operation in a post-COVID world. Not sure where to start? I would recommend a Google search for “equestrian access program” or “equestrian nonprofit near me” – those may get you started in the right direction. You never know what may be near you!

National Holiday: Today is National Give Something Away Day. Michi, if you’re reading this, I wear a size fischerRocana please.

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Full Gallop Farm HT: [Website][Entry Status]

Virginia CCI and HT: [Website][Entry Status]

Silverwood Farm Summer HT: [Website]

Full Moon Farm HT: [Website][Entry Status]

Course Brook Farm HT: [Website][Entry Status]

Galway Downs HT: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times]

Wednesday Reading List:

Another Instagram rabbit hole led me to this awesome small business, The Positive Equestrian, aka Marina Layton. Marina is an equestrian blogger who wants more than anything for every rider to feel included and seen. To that end, Marina was inspired to create the Equestrians Unite collection showcasing riders of color with an artsy flair. Each likeness in this collection was brought to life by a rider who inspired Marina. You can shop The Positive Equestrian here.

Running a barn should be like running a well-oiled machine. How do some of the top show barns do it? A little organization goes a long way, and NöelleFloyd.com collected some practical ways to improve the business, organizational side of the house … err … barn.

How does Lauren Nicholson introduce ditches, banks, and water? The Chronicle of the Horse caught up with the Olympic eventer to find out how she introduces new elements to the many young horses learning in her program. Lauren is well-respected for her thoughtful approach to training horses, and you’ll be sure to pick up some useful tips here.

Wednesday Video: How would your horse do on these conditioning sets?

Horses train on the sand dunes!

Wow! What an awesome place to train racehorses 😍🎥 @Devaracinggroup

Posted by At The Races on Thursday, July 9, 2020

Ecovet is an entirely different type of fly spray … and you apply it to your horse in a different way, too. With fly season upon us, we’re sharing some tips for how to best apply Ecovet:

Tuesday Video from Flexible Fit Equestrian USA: An Update from Everyone’s Favorite Tailless Eventer

By on Jul 14, 2020 4:30 pm -

The people have spoken, here’s an update from EN’s favorite tailless eventer, Chasin’ Tail! This weekend Bear, an Appendix Quarter Horse, and former Jumper Nation editor Meagan DeLisle finished third at Champagne Run at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Bear earned much admiration when we shared his story last year (Jumper Gone Rogue: A Jumper Rider & a Horse With No Tail Walk Into May Daze…), and he’s still enjoying life as an eventer! Meagan, recently healed from an ankle injury, navigated him around the picturesque Kentucky bluegrass with such love and enthusiasm — it’s contagious. Take a ride with Meagan and Bear.

Flexible Fit Equestrian: Redefining Comfort & Quality at an Affordable Price. Learn more at www.ffequestrian.com.au.

Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery Return to Competition Together

By on Jul 14, 2020 2:30 pm -

Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery. Photo by Jenni Autry.

A typical weekday morning activity for the eventing obsessed, checking entries for an upcoming weekend in February of this year revealed an exciting development: Blackfoot Mystery was entered in the Open Preliminary at Pine Top. It was no mirage: Boyd Martin’s Rio Olympic partner, now 16, was back out competing. The pair had two easy runs around Pine Top before competitions were halted, but it was hardly the last we’d seen of “Big Red”.

It had been nearly four years since we last saw Blackfoot Mystery on a cross country course with Boyd Martin. The off-track Thoroughbred gelding cemented a spot on the U.S. eventing team for Rio with a solid sixth place finish at Kentucky in 2016 and would go on to finish in the top 20 individually at the Olympics. It was a huge effort for the still-green gelding owned by the Blackfoot Mystery Syndicate LLC, and the horse spent the remainder of the season taking it easy.

“He left a part of himself in Rio, I think,” Boyd reflected. Boyd says the extended break that followed put the wind back in the gelding’s sails, prompting the team to give him another shot at doing what he loves.

Indeed, Red never lost his try or his desire to work, and after a separate injury kept the gelding on the sidelines for longer than originally anticipated, Boyd says he now feels “rejuvenated” and back to his fiery old form. Now with events resuming, Blackfoot Mystery proved his freshness with a handy Intermediate win at the Maryland Horse Trials at Loch Moy Farm this past weekend.

Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

It was a return of sorts for Boyd as well, who quietly spent his own downtime in recovery from much-needed surgery to tame some muscle tears and bone spurs in each hip. “It was a surgery I had planned to have in the off-season this year, but with the extra time I felt it would be better timing to get it done earlier,” Boyd explained. In the interim, Phillip Dutton and Mike Pendleton, along with the rest of Boyd’s team at home, kept Boyd’s string going as competitions resumed. Boyd was eager to get back out and about at Maryland — but bringing out Big Red also? The cherry on top. “I felt like my old self again,” Boyd said. “He was the perfect horse to get back in the swing of things.”

Always the goal seeker, Boyd says he had set an intention for Blackfoot Mystery to run at the inaugural Maryland 5 Star, the running of which was postponed to 2021 due to the pandemic. Now, he says the extra time has been a blessing in disguise, illuminating perhaps a better goal for the chestnut gelding to make his return to the international arena: a CCI4*-L. “It’s better for him to not have to step back in and do something quite so grueling,” he explained. “I think [a 4*-L] will suit him well.”

Whatever the future holds for Blackfoot Mystery, a horse that has demonstrated his grit and talent in true Thoroughbred fashion, Boyd says at the end of the day he feels rested and ready for whatever comes next. “He gave me a brilliant ride around Maryland this weekend,” he said. “He’s done a fantastic job and is in great spirits.”

Baby Leo keeping an eye on Blackfoot Mystery

Posted by Boyd Martin on Thursday, 18 June 2020

#AEC2020 or Bust: Entries Now Open for USEA American Eventing Championships

By on Jul 14, 2020 12:00 pm -

Julia Spatt & 501 Macintosh, winners of the Bates Preliminary Rider division at the 2019 American Eventing Championships. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Opening day of the 2020 USEA American Eventing Championships is officially upon us, and we’re looking forward to the first pandemic championship (that sounds quite Hunger Games-esque) heading our way August 25-30 at Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky. #AEC2020 is sure to be the eventer’s Super Bowl as it always is, though new protocols and considerations are at hand for this year’s event.

If you’ve qualified to run at AEC this year, many congratulations! Qualifying certainly is not always easy, and your hard work should be recognized. It’s advisable to submit your entry as soon as possible (note: AEC is only accepting electronic entries this year), as entry numbers are currently limited to 1,000. There are a few other changes and updates to bear in mind as you prepare for the trek to Kentucky — we’ve hammered them out below. We’ll keep you abreast of any changes the USEA makes to the event or its format in the coming weeks, as the pandemic and states’ procedures for containing it are ever-changing.

What will be different about the American Eventing Championships this year? 

  • No spectators are allowed
  • Competitors are asked to only bring essential people along — parents, coach, groom, etc.
  • Only electronic entries are accepted
  • Double entries are not accepted
  • COVID-19 protocol and procedures will be followed — for a refresher, click here
  • Entries are currently limited to 1,000.

What are some things to consider before entering?

  • Your home state’s current COVID-19 status — is your area a hot spot or experiencing a strong surge in cases?
  • Your current health — are you immunocompromised? Have you traveled recently or had exposure to anyone ill?
  • Those around you — if you travel, will there be anyone who might be at risk by coming in contact with you once you return home?

What are some ways to ensure smooth sailing at #AEC2020?

  • Follow COVID-19 protocol laid out by US Equestrian, the USEA, and show organizers
  • Wear a mask, stay six feet apart from others, and regularly wash/sanitize your hands
  • If you’re feeling ill, please stay home!

As uncomfortable and mildly infuriating as these new guidelines can be, the reality is that it is thanks to those guidelines that events were able to resume in any capacity. We are as thrilled as you are that competitions are back — but as we’ve all learned in 2020, the situation can change by the hour. Through the collective efforts of our community, we can beat this! And we’ll see you in Kentucky at #AEC2020.

To get the full scoop on #AEC2020, click here.

Who Jumped It Best? Big Cheese Schooling H.T. at Ashland Farm

By on Jul 14, 2020 9:00 am -

This Who Jumped It Best? takes us to a place that I hold very near and dear to my heart, Ashland Farm in Walnut Grove, Ga. Ashland is where I grew up riding with longtime coach, mentor and friend Ann Haller. Ann spent many years as the resident trainer on this special property, owned by Lucy and Clay Calhoun. Together, they hosted many schooling shows here, all which formed the foundation of my competition experience. Ann’s husband Roger Haller, famously known for designing the cross country course for the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, only 20 minutes away, laid out what we called the North Gate Pasture to offer cross country schooling and courses for grasshoppers through preliminary riders.

The place was and is still an oasis for local riders. In addition to the cross country field, Ashland boasts two dressage arenas, a full size show jumping ring and 400 acres of sprawling trails. While the local pony club has hosted combined tests, it’s been ten years since the Calhoun’s property had seen three-phase competition, until this weekend.

This weekend Ashland Farm hosted the first Big Cheese Horse Trial, CT & Dressage Show. Organized by Caroline Templeton, 72 local riders of all ages and levels took part in the event, and it was an astounding success. As Lucy Calhoun said, I think Ann would’ve been proud.

To celebrate this homecoming of sorts, y’all help us pick which Beginner Novice horse and rider combination you think presents the best overall picture. Scroll through, and vote in the poll at the bottom of this post.

Thank you to Rebecca Lever of Rebecca Abney Photography who provided these lovely photos. For more from the show, you can check out her Facebook Page. Big Cheese Eventing has a full calendar through the end of the year with three more horse trials. For more information, click here.

Aubrey Sabatino & Cloud Jumper. Photo by Rebeccar Abney Photography.

Hannah Ferrier & Ransom. Photo by Rebeccar Abney Photography.

Allison Frady & Wayward Wincheste. Photo by Rebeccar Abney Photography.

Anabelle Kurtz & Honey. Photo by Rebeccar Abney Photography.

Kelsey Drewry & FGF Big Louie D. Photo by Rebeccar Abney Photography.

Kim Ohlsson & Tall, Dark & Samson. Photo by Rebeccar Abney Photography.

Hattie Clark & Billy the Brit. Photo by Rebeccar Abney Photography.

Hannah Fearing & Something Remarkable. Photo by Rebeccar Abney Photography.

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feeds

By on Jul 14, 2020 12:01 am -

2018 AEC Jr. Beginner Novice champions Ella Robinson and Fernhill Fearless des Terdrix. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Happy opening day for the 2020 USEA American Eventing Championships! We’re headed back to the Kentucky Horse Park this year. So far, the USEA has promised COVID-19 precautions will be enacted. Are you qualified? What an accomplishment, you superstars. Let us know!

National Holiday: Happy National Mac and Cheese Day!

Events Opening This Week: Valinor Farm H.T., Chattahoochee Hills H.T., Silverwood Farm Fall H.T., Woodland Stallion Station H.T., USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final, and ATC Finals

Events Closing This Week: Olney Farm H.T., River Glen Summer H.T., Cobblestone Farms H.T.

Tuesday News: 

The stigma of mental illness unfortunately extends to our cozy corner of the world. Eventer Megan Roswech shares a very honest, raw reflection of her own personal struggles. Her parting message: be kind, to your friends, to your competitors, to everyone you meet, work to be kind. [The Silent Side Of Burnout]

Looking to win at Beginner Novice? While we can’t actually throw you across the jumps ourselves, consider this an insiders cheat sheet. [How Strong is Your Beginner Novice Game?]

Let’s keep your barn running like a well oiled machine, Max and Kris Amaya have it down to a science at Stonehenge Stables. Their best friend is the day sheet, it’s a running tally of what each horse is doing and who is riding. It makes sure no one gets missed, and it keeps an accurate journal of exercise practices. [5 Practical Ways to Run Your Barn Like a Top Show Stable]

Tuesday Video: 

Nupafeed Weekend Winners: Champagne Run, Genesee Valley Hunt, Maryland, Poplar Place, WHES

By on Jul 13, 2020 2:59 pm -

Spotted: Masks on tour at Kentucky Horse Park. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Another busy weekend of eventing is in the books! Perhaps one of the most repeated sentiments I hear these days is gratitude. The coronavirus pandemic certainly affected each of us in its own way, and many riders have commented on the fact that having extra time away from competition has been a blessing in disguise. I truly hope that you’re all seeing the fruits of your hard work paying off as many riders get back into competing.

This weekend’s lowest score belongs to Buck Davidson, piloting Katherine O’Brien’s Business Class to the win in the Open Preliminary at Champagne Run on a finishing score of 22.1. Congratulations!

Some other fun tidbits from the weekend: we saw a father-daughter team take two of the wins at Poplar Place — Tessa Geven and dad Werner Geven winning their respective Novice divisions. We also are thrilled to see Blackfoot Mystery, Boyd Martin’s partner for the Rio Olympics in 2016, back out at the upper levels again. The 16 year old Thoroughbred gelding stepped back into competition pre-pandemic, having two easy runs at Pine Top with Boyd in the irons.

And because we can’t forget our eventer friends taking on other arenas, a shout-out to Laine Ashker, who took three of her horses including one eventer to Dressage at Lexington this weekend. Laine picked up a big win in the FEI Test of Choice: Intermediate A with Danielle Casalett’s Atlas. Not one to be outdone, Laine’s eventing partner Call Him Paddy also earned himself a blue ribbon in his Second Level 1 test. Congratulations!

My birdy was riding on my shoulder today at Dressage at Lexington as Atlas and I took the win in FEI TOC with a 68% at FEI Intermediate A. #RoAmerica #LÆD #onestepclosertograndprix

Posted by Lainey Ashker on Saturday, July 11, 2020

Congratulations to all of this weekend’s winners! Let’s take a look at the finishing scores, as well as at social media from each event:

Champagne Run at the Park HT: [Website][Final Scores]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Caitlin Henderson and Creative Dreamer (30.1)
Open Preliminary: Buck Davidson and Business Class (22.1)
Preliminary Rider: Cierre Daratony and Rio De Janeiro (24.4)
Preliminary/Training: Jenna Sack and Fernhill Imperial Flight (28.1)
Jr. Training Rider: Kate Kirchdorfer and Galway Bay Cooley (28.9)
Open Training A: Kelly Ransom and Heart of Hollywood (26.1)
Open Training B: Rachel Miles and Zane (28.0)
Sr. Training Rider A: Hannah Warner and Drombane Dynamite (25.2)
Sr. Training Rider B: Lily Callahan and Royal Crest’s Granite Permission (34.7)
Training/Novice: Jennifer Coleman and SS Palantir (28.4)
Jr. Novice Rider A: Aidan Goumas and Annapolis (31.9)
Jr. Novice Rider B: Makenzie Lowe and BT Jump the Gun (24.3)
Novice Horse A: Julie Wolfert and Namibia (24.0)
Novice Horse B: Megan Edwards and Spotted Chap (28.6)
Open Novice: Kenzie Mader and Cinco De Mayo (27.5)
Sr. Novice Rider A: Abby Blackburn and Opposition Lady (28.8)
Sr. Novice Rider B: Emily Ragan and Finnegan (25.7)
Sr. Novice Rider C: Kathleen Bertuna and Excel Star Harry (23.1)
Beginner Novice Horse A: Kathryn Greenfield and Artemis HH (30.8)
Beginner Novice Horse B: Rachel Miles and Cooley Nyx (24.3)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider A: Macy Richards and Ramble On (25.5)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider B: Larkyn Hendren and Sandy (31.3)
Open Beginner Novice: William Hoos and Rio (28.5)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider A: Sandra Barclay and Cooley Camelot (31.5)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider B: Kerri Sweet and Shake the Glitter Off (23.3)
Junior Starter: Alison Otipoby and Bombay Ice (34.4)
Senior Starter A: Stephanie Calendrillo and Dispatcher (35.3)
Senior Starter B: Lily Callahan and The Phantom Pistol (35.0)

Namib was awesome this weekend once again! A 20 in dressage for a 4 year old OTTB isn’t too shabby! I’m so proud of…

Posted by Julie Wolfert on Sunday, July 12, 2020

View this post on Instagram

Great week with some great friends!

A post shared by Jess Saari (@jsaari50) on

We did it! Well at least pretty damn good for the first show at the KHP and just in general for the year for a lot…

Posted by Jj Jayhawk Sillman on Sunday, July 12, 2020

View this post on Instagram

Teddy’s first trip to KHP was a success! The atmosphere in dressage was a little overwhelming so it wasn’t our best dressage test, but he jumped double clear XC and SJ to finish 5th. He also took numerous naps 😂The #dynamicequestrianllc team had an awesome weekend as well, with @srs_eventing and Polly finishing 2nd in JBNR, @ceara.m28 and Keepher 9th in BNH, @mlp.eventing 8th on Ellie in a very competitive OP division and got a qualifying score for Duke in his 2nd Prelim. @sep.eventing came along to go horse shopping and was a huge help all weekend. 📸 @sep.eventing #champagnerunhorsetrials #goeventing #eventersofinstagram #eventinglife #bestteam #fernhilldynamic #nappingchamp

A post shared by Dynamic Equestrian, LLC (@dynamicequestrianllc) on

Genesee Valley Hunt HT: [Website][Final Scores]

Open Modified: Carolyn Wehle and Stravinsky (35.7)
Open Training: Carolyn Wehle and Ballyadare (24.3)
Open Novice A: Daisy Trayford and St. Nick’s Beam of Light (27.6)
Open Novice B: Lilli Smith and Wild for Summer (28.6)
Open Beginner Novice A: Rebecca Blackburn and Regally Blonde (27.3)
Open Beginner Novice B: Lois Hacker and Adagio (33.5)
Open Beginner Novice C: Noell Silvertsen and Try This (24.8)
Open Beginner Novice D: Jannah Matzan and Talim (31.5)
Open Intro A: Madison Matuszweski and Everlasting (31.9)
Open Intro C: Suzanne Chang and Brogan (27.8)

Maryland HT II: [Website][Final Scores]

Open Intermediate A: Abigail Niles and Carrick Finest Lad (37.1)
Open Intermediate B: Hannah Sue Burnett and Lukeswell (36.9)
Open Intermediate C: Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery (30.1)
Open Preliminary A: Isabel Finemore and Heartbeat (29.5)
Open Preliminary B: Kaelen Speck and Charmed Victory (28.9)
Preliminary Rider: Brooke Molde and Groundwork (30.9)
Modified A: Cassie Sanger and Ultra Violet (33.5)
Modified B: Mikki Kuchta and Special Reserve (29.8)
Open Training A: Sophia Middlebrook and Monbeg Oddesey (29.8)
Open Training B: Lynn Symansky and Bounce 6 (25.7)
Training Rider A: Jennifer Treacy and Bene (26.9)
Training Rider B: Maggie Buchanan and 3, 2, 1 Blastoff (26.9)
Jr. Open Training: Noah Stanlaske and Chesterland (30.2)
Jr. Open Novice A: Alise Shotwell and Cambell (27.1)
Jr. Open Novice B: Maya Knowles and Junebug (25.2)
Novice Rider A: Annemarie Cochrane and Where’d It Go (24.9)
Novice Rider B: Abigail Fulmer and State of Reverence (30.5)
Novice Rider C: Shannon Allen and KD Mac (27.1)
Open Novice A: Kelli Temple and Excel Star Royal Trend (27.4)
Open Novice B: Daniel Clasing and Greenhill Master Cruise (29.3)
Open Novice C: Ryan Wood and Confidence Level (24.8)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Ashley Russell and Fulleigh Armed (29.4)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Cathrin Weiss and Pegasus Black Gold (28.3)
Beginner Novice Rider C: Luba Abrams and Huey (28.3)
Jr. Open Beginner Novice A: Madison Springle and Andante (27.5)
Jr. Open Beginner Novice B: Alexandra Penland and A Twist of Twyla (32.8)
Open Beginner Novice A: Kristiane Pellegrino and White Oaks Joyride (26.1)
Open Beginner Novice B: Jaclyn Burke and Chance of Liftoff (25.0)

Congratulations Abby Niles and her horse Carrick Finest Lad on a win today at the Maryland Horse Trials at Loch Moy!!They won their Intermediate division, adding only a little time to their dressage score!

Posted by Sharon White on Saturday, July 11, 2020

Poplar Place Farm July HT: [Website][Final Scores]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Briggs Surratt and Ultimate Victory (52.5)
Open Intermediate: Kate Brown and Victor Z (45.0)
Open Preliminary: Zoe Crawford and K.B.S. Quick Strike (26.2)
Preliminary/Training: Lizzie Walters and Proven Reputation (33.3)
Open Training: Sara Beth Anton and Legionnaire (29.2)
Training/Novice: Rian Presel and Venetian Bay (36.7)
Training Rider: Skylah Vinzant and The Black Pearl (39.8)
Jr. Novice Rider: Tessa Geven and Big Bear’s Cepheus (23.1)
Open Novice: Werner Geven and Stay Frosty Oscar (24.3)
Sr. Novice Rider: Hannah Miller and Ana Navarre (27.8)
Jr. Beginner Novice Rider: Blythe Minshew and The Starboard (28.3)
Open Beginner Novice: Lily Barlow and Big Bear’s Coriana (29.3)
Sr. Beginner Novice Rider: Dolly Stuckey and Little Bit of Girl (30.5)
Intro: Myca Williams and Canterbury Tales (78.8)
Starter: Abby Zilberkant and My Stubborn Side (47.9)

What a great weekend at Poplar Place Horse Trials! Aerated XC courses built by Tommy Neneman, Launa DesPortes is a bad…

Posted by Shelley Howerton Page on Sunday, July 12, 2020

Winner winner!! 🦄

Posted by Lizzie Walters on Sunday, July 12, 2020

Ultimate Victory aka Cody and Briggs have a great run in the IP at Poplar Place. A beautiful. XC.gathering just some time. Cody’s second run since loosing his eye April 29th! Show jump tomorrow!! #oneeyedsuoerhorse!!

Posted by Rick Wallace on Saturday, July 11, 2020

War Horse Event Series July HT: [Website][Final Scores]

Advanced CT: Will Faudree and PFun (28.9)
Intermediate CT: Ariel Grald and Caballe (25.5)
Modified: Daryl Kinney and Monte Carlo (27.4)
Modified CT: Caitlin Romeo and Fernhill B Good (34.3)
Preliminary CT: Kaley Crosby and Valentino (28.1)
Preliminary: Will Coleman and Off the Record (34.1)
Training CT: Ana Kaplon and Rockin Maria (35.2)
Training HT: Daryl Kinney and BEC Valencia (27.1)
Training HT: Susan Beebee and Bayou Bengal (26.4)
Jr. Training HT: Kiera Kenny and FE Chardonnay (26.0)
Novice CT: Kristyn Berger and De Firenzi (33.1)
Novice HT A: Cassandra Wallskog and Quentus 3 (28.3)
Novice HT B: Nicole Kemerling and Modern Man (30.2)
Novice HT: Savannah Smith and Gotcha Covered (26.7)
Jr. Novice HT: Gabrielle Chevalier and Ramble On (29.9)
Beginner Novice CT: Sophie Miller and Quarlotta C (36.3)
Beginner Novice HT A: Joni Shimp and Lois Lane (31.1)
Beginner Novice HT B: Jasmine Hobart and Zephyrine (28.3)
Jr. Beginner Novice HT: AnneLaurel Dempsey and Country Girl’s Cadillac (30.9)
Beginner Novice HT: Roberta Woronowicz and The Little Gray Horse (33.3)
Jr. Beginner Novice HT: Taylor Little and Miss MoneyPenny (30.4)
Green As Grass CT: Karen Mahaffey and Arthur HF (24.4)
Green As Grass HT: Courtney Bauer and Horse Feathers Caspian (29.7)
Jr. Green As Grass HT: Willow Chase and Dunn It Big (27.8)
Maiden CT: Karen Stroud and Stonington Blue (32.8)
Maiden HT A: Antonia Matthews and Get Smart (27.5)
Maiden HT B: Rebekah McMurrough and Cricket (27.0)
Jr. Maiden HT: Kylee Casey and Danielle Deer (30.3)

Coco was so good this weekend at the July War Horse jumping clear in the Intermediate CT and cruising around the Prelim…

Posted by Mikaela Kantorowski on Sunday, July 12, 2020

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Feeling so incredibly blessed. I honestly never thought I’d be in this position. I grew up loving horses from a distance, closest I could get was TV and a few trail rides over 20 years. When I started riding a little over 2 years ago, I told myself “by the time I’m 25-30 I’d like to have my own horse” but in the mean time, I was just so happy to be around them.. borrowing all the amazing school ponies that taught me so much and loving each like they were my own. & this past weekend I took MY first horse to his first show at 23 🥺 I think I cried a total of 7 times over the weekend 😂 Gambino, you were a total last minute, impulse buy and you were the best decision. You are my best friend. You are so talented, and smart and you give your ENTIRE heart in any and everything I ask of you. What more could I ask for 🦋He came out after only knowing and learning me as his person for a short 3 months and where there was over 300 horses and freaking killed it. We took home 7th out of 10 and I couldn’t be more proud of him & everything he accomplished. 🦋 • • • I want to thank every single person who has been with me along this journey. From my first coach, to all the good, & bad ones, to the people who cheered me on and supported me, to the people who talk about me and wish nothing but failure on me. Thank you all, each and every moment, lesson, fall, tears, frustration, struggle, and ride has put me where I am today. I wouldn’t change a thing. • • • • Gambino, “G” July 2020 War Horse Series 🦋☁️ • • @aztecdiamondequestrian @onekhelmets @lemieuxproductsofficial @collegiatesaddleryus @_jordy_love_ @practicallysimplephotography @stonewallfarm_dressage @customsaddlery @carolinahorsepark #ShowWeekend #showjumping #greenasgrass #warhorse #carolinahorsepark #gdaottb #ottb #baysbeforebaes #eventer #eventing #dressage #aztecdiamondequestrian #equestrian #blackequestrian #poweredbysmartsupplements #smartpak @smartpak

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This weekend Max and I tackled a first for both of us — competing in a horse trial (for the uninitiated, that’s three phases — dressage, show jumping and cross country). And I guess I can officially call myself an eventer. 😬 It was hot out there, and I have an even greater appreciation of the fact that this sport isn’t for the faint of heart, but it was a heck of a lot of fun. I’m so proud of this pony and what we are starting to achieve together. We finished on our dressage score of 27.5 to win at Maiden today, and qualify for #warhorse championships — a 2020 goal! 🌟 Thanks to the incredible support of so, so many folks who I’m grateful to spend these weekends (and lesson days and clinics) with, but especially to the coaching of @hudspethholly, who keeps helping me figure out exactly how much tough love this rascal pony needs. And to @elizasydnor.dressage (we followed the warm-up plan!), and @brittthebrit, @amcallister90 and @izzelong for the camaraderie, advice and grooming help this weekend and always. 🥰 Plus, @gidyupcsu for lending me her lucky pinny and watch! #welshcob #kwpn #sportpony #goeventing #maxwellsmart #getsmart

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Bestest haflinger 💕

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Monday Video from CLM DWN: Monday Motivation from a Five-Time Paralympic Gold Medalist

By on Jul 13, 2020 10:46 am -

If you’re in the market for a little Monday motivation and inspiration, this beautiful short documentary sharing the story of Natasha Baker, five-time Paralympic Dressage gold medalist and five-time Para-Dressage European Champion, has it in spades.

Natasha was stricken and diagnosed transverse myelitis, a neurological disorder affecting the spinal cord, at 14-months-old. The disease, which in Natasha’s case was caused by an abnormal immune response to a virus, caused permanent nerve damage affecting her balance, a leaving weakness and a lack of sensation in her legs. Always a horse-crazy child anyway, Natasha was thrilled when her doctor told her parents about the local the local Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) where she was then able to ride more regularly and begin showing.

Natasha first learned of Paralympic Dressage the summer of Sydney 2000 — the first year the Paralypmics were televised — and the rest, as they say, is history. Enjoy this FEI TV video that tells Natasha’s story from her early childhood memories to achieving her dreams.