Classic Eventing Nation

Athletux #TakeHomeTuesday: HG One Hay Steamer from Haygain ($999 Value)

By on May 26, 2020 1:10 pm -

Get your game face on, because Equestrian Marketing Firm Athletux has partnered with EN’s awesome sponsor Haygain to give away a HG One Hay Steamer for this week’s edition of #TakeHomeTuesday.

Why We Love It

The steaming process rids hay of up to 99% of the mold, dust, bacteria and allergens found in hay — even in hay that looks beautiful and is top quality in terms of nutrient content. These inhalable irritants lead to respiratory issues that affect over 80% of active sport horses, often without obvious symptoms.

Many vets consider respiratory challenges to be the top cause of otherwise unexplained poor performance. Which is not surprising. As anyone with even mild asthma or allergies knows — especially this time of year — easy breathing is critical whether you’re galloping a 5* cross-country course or taking a leisurely trail ride.

Steaming also adds water to the diet for better digestion and hydration. Unlike soaking hay, it does not leach nutrients and it’s easy to incorporate into the horse keeping routine. Horses love its great taste and smell, helping hard keepers keep weight on and get the energy and nutrients they need.

Athletux is giving away a HG One Hay Steamer, the smallest of Haygain’s three models. It’s perfect for feeding one or two horses and traveling with it is a breeze.

How To Win It

1) Follow both @athletux and @haygainusa on Instagram.
2) Like this post.
3) Tag a friend who might like to enter (one person per comment to maximize your chances).
For an extra entry, enter your email here.

Hurry! Tuesday giveaways only run for 48 hours. Entering takes less than 1 minute so what are you waiting for?

This giveaway closes on Thursday, May 28th at 7 a.m. EST. Winner to be contacted that afternoon!⁠

Bonus of following Athletux on Instagram: #TakeHomeTuesday giveaways for items from top industry brands — we are talking big items like horse blankets, riding boots, helmets, clothing and more. You don’t want to miss it!

Go Eventing.

Equestrian Marketing Firm Athletux is proud to be one of the longest running agencies in the business, working exclusively with equestrian brands, athletes and events. Athletux understands your audience, utilizing innovative and creative ideas to build your brand and image. By integrating a passion for all things equine with drive and knowledge, you will achieve unparalleled results. Think of Athletux as an extension of your team, providing highly specialized tools to take your business to the next level. Learn more about how Athletux can help you revolutionize your business today. Visit athletux.com for more information, or follow along via social @athletux. 

2020 Calendar Is Looking Bright for Morven Park

By on May 26, 2020 9:00 am -

Photo by Valerie Durbon Photography.

Like so many venues, Morven Park International Equestrian Center in Leesburg, VA, had an eerily quiet spring. Its Spring Horse Trials, scheduled for March 28-29, was canceled — for the first time in 46 years.

We’re glad to hear that the horse trials’ rescheduling request has been approved. The formerly “Spring” but now “Winter” H.T. will take place Nov. 14-15, 2020, and feature Beginner Novice through Preliminary levels.

“We appreciate all of your continued support,” the event reports. “As we receive updates from the local, state and federal governments and the USEF and USEA we will keep you all updated as well.”

In the coming months, Morven Park International Equestrian Center is looking forward to welcoming riders and spectators at horse trials, Summer Show Series for hunter/jumpers, the fourth season of Polo in the Park, and more. Here’s an overview of what we have to look forward to this year:

EVENTING

Loudoun Hunt Pony Club Summer H.T.: June 27 – 28, 2020

  • Open Date: May 12
  • Close Date: June 9
  • Divisions: BN, N, T, P, I

Hopes are high that the event will run; a decision will be announced on or before June 10 based on local and state restrictions. Entries are being accepted, but kindly refrain from submitting payment until a decision has been made about running.

Morven Park Fall International Horse Trials & CCI: Oct. 1-4, 2020

  • Open Date: Aug. 18
  • Close Date: Sep. 15
  • Divisions: N, N-JR, T,T-JR,P,P-JY, I, A, CCI2-S, CCI2-SYH, CCI3-S, CCI3-SYH, CCI4-S, CCI4-L

This year’s event features the addition of a CCI4*-L, a response to the loss of Fair Hill’s CCI4*-L, which will no longer run starting in 2020 due to the addition of the CCI5*-L.

The 6- and 7-year-old classes are another exciting addition, giving talented young horses the opportunity to compete against the peers in their age group. These classes are common in the UK and Europe but haven’t yet gained a foothold in the U.S.

Open Cross Country Schooling Day: Oct. 6, 2020, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Come school the Morven Park cross country courses as they were set for the Horse Trials! The cost is $50 per horse/rider; register upon arrival. Must have current Coggins and 2020 Hold Harmless form. Contact [email protected] with questions.

Morven Park Winter H.T. – Nov. 14-15 (rescheduled from March 28-29)

  • Open Date: Sept. 29 
  • Close Date: Oct. 27
  • Divisions: P, T, T-JR, N, N-JR, BN, BN-JR

 HUNTER/JUMPER

Southern States Purcellville Summer Show Series:

Two hunter rings as well as a jumper ring will be offered for each of the seven dates in the series.

  • June 21
  • July 12
  • July 18
  • July 25
  • August 8
  • August 15
  • September 5

Eventers, this is a great opportunity to hone those show jumping skills after a spring off from competition. Each show is VHSA, BHSA and TIP rated and will be held in Morven Park’s three beautiful new outdoor arenas with Attwood Equestrian Surfaces EuroTex footing. Learn more about the series and download the prize list here.

… AND MORE! 

The fourth season of Polo in the Park at the Morven Park International Equestrian Center is scheduled to begin July 11, 2020! Click here for more info.

For more information on Morven Park International Equestrian Center,  visit the website here.

Tuesday News & Notes from Legends Horse Feeds

By on May 26, 2020 12:01 am -

Ian Stark and Murphy Himself. Photo via Ian Stark.

I’ve seen a lot of people sharing and nominating each other for the equestrian photo challenge where each person shares a favorite horse photo every day for 10 days. There have been many really inspiring shots and great throwbacks, but this one is my favorite. Ian Stark and Murphy Himself boldly leaping into the water at the Barcelona Olympic Games in 1992. Ian must have had velcro in those breeches because legend has it that the daring grey decided a bounce before the drop was much more appropriate than the designated one-stride.

National Holiday: National Paper Airplane Day

Events Opening This Week (According to the online omnibus): Genesee Valley Hunt H.T., The Maryland H.T. at Loch Moy Farm II, Poplar Place Farm May H.T., Champagne Run at the Park H.T., Western Underground, Inc Coconino Summer HT & T/N/BN3D Event

Download this one for your next commute (mine is from the bed to the couch nowadays, so no judgement here). The latest USEA Podcast delves into how our sport will bounce back from Coronavirus. You’ll hear from  USEA CEO Rob Burk, USEA President Max Corcoran, and Chair of the FEI Eventing Committee David O’Connor for all the details. [USEA Podcast #258: Getting Back to Business]

I am a complete history buff. Hook me up with a well organized documentary and I’m one happy gal. If you’re cut from that same cloth, then you’ll love this latest piece from Noelle Floyd about the most important horses in American History. [Three Times Horses Changed the Course of American History]

After an epic calendar year in 2019, Piggy March had set herself up brilliantly for Olympic domination in 2020, but those Olympic dreams have unfortunately been sidelined again. We’ve all read Piggy’s redemption story, so we know she’s made of the toughest stuff on earth. With her downtime, she’s cranking away but also enjoying more breaks with her husband and son before her world domination tour continues. [Eventing Star March Rejects ‘Olympic Jinx’ and Focuses on Hope and Ambition]

Tuesday Video: Learn how to master a DIY haircut that won’t leave you embarrassed to go out in public.

Monday Video from CLM DWN: Four Fixes for Quiet Hands

By on May 25, 2020 5:27 pm -

“Quiet hands!” How many times have we all heard that shouted across the arena at us?

Having a pair of quiet, elastic hands and arms is key to having a positive connection with our horse’s mouths … and it’s also not a super easy skill to develop! Area I event rider and instructor Emily Tasker of Fox Hill Equestrians in Barnstead, New Hampshire shares four different tools for fixing those stiff and wandering hands and arms.

Check out more training tips on Fox Hill Equestrians new YouTube channel. Thanks for sharing, Emily!

Make Your Own DIY Brush Jump, With Kentucky Performance Products Rider Lisa Barry

By on May 25, 2020 12:14 pm -

Need to have a school over brush jump but don’t have access to any? Or maybe you want to practice a fun cross-country exercise in the arena? Just make your own—it is easy! Buy some cheap fake Christmas trees and strip them of their branches. Drill holes the size of the stem in your wood jumps or poles and insert the branches. Depending on the tree, you can trim the ends of the naked branches to make a scalloped brush look.

About Lisa:
Lisa Barry is a four-star event rider who has been riding and competing horses for 29 years, and has 16 years of international competition experience. Her horses have had top placings at many FEI events including at the Advanced/CCI4*/CCI5* level. Lisa has trained with Karen O’Connor for 25 years, and has worked for and ridden with Karen and David since she joined the O’Connor program as a working student when she was 17. Lisa competed at the 2015 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event aboard her beloved FIS Prince Charming, aka “Peanut,” a tiny, feisty New Zealand OTTB. Lisa is currently training and coaching out of Lexington, Kentucky and Ocala, Florida. If you have questions for Lisa or would like to learn more about her program email her at [email protected]

Lisa Barry and F.I.S. Prince Charming. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Fight back against an energy crisis that can impact condition and performance.

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Whether you have a hard keeper that needs extra calories to maintain his weight, or a top performance horse that needs cool energy to perform at her peak, Equi-Jewel can meet your horse’s energy needs. Equi-Jewel reduces the risk of digestive upset, supports optimal muscle function, maintains stamina, and helps horses recover faster after hard work, all while providing the calories your horse needs to thrive.

The horse that matters to you matters to us®.

Not sure which horse supplement best meets your horse’s needs? Kentucky Performance Products, LLC is here to help. Call 859-873-2974 or visit KPPusa.com.

MARS Great Meadow International Is Looking Forward to a Safe, Successful Event in August

By on May 25, 2020 9:50 am -

Good news from MARS Great Meadow International, scheduled to take place Aug. 20-23, 2020 in The Plains, VA: The organizing committee is working hard to move forward with a safe, successful event, with confirmed support from title sponsor MARS Equestrian. The event has released this statement.

Lynn Symansky and Under Suspection, winners of the MARS Great Meadow International CCI4*-S. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Five Rings Eventing, LLC is pleased to announce the return of MARS Equestrian™, a division of Mars, Incorporated, as the title sponsor of the Great Meadow International CIC2, 3 and 4*-S.

The MARS Great Meadow International (MARSGMI) takes place in The Plains, Virginia on August 20-23, 2020. At this point, MARSGMI is planning to proceed as scheduled. The Organizing Committee is in the process of developing protocols to ensure the safety of everyone involved with the event, following all local, national, USEA and FEI requirements related to the COVID-19 health crisis. The driving force for all involved will be the health and safety of all competitors, volunteers, and competition staff.

“The sport of eventing may be on hold for now, but when it is safe to return to competition, MARS Equestrian is a perfect long term partner, committed to the future success of MARSGMI. As we navigate this difficult time, we are so grateful to once again have their support, and look forward with hope to a safe, exciting event in August.” said David O’Connor of Five Rings Eventing.

“MARS Equestrian is delighted to return as the Title Sponsor of GMI,” said Geoff Galant, Vice President of MARS Equestrian. “Ultimately, the partnership with GMI is central to our goal of supporting competition in local areas. Finding new ways to connect with fans and business partners while supporting the event is important to us. The team at GMI is working hard to host a top level competition during these challenging times and we support their efforts.”

In the meantime, new for 2020, MARSGMI will offer a national Preliminary division to include more competitors in this destination event.

“Great Meadow is truly a special place in the heart of Northern Virginia horse country,” said O’Connor. “We are especially excited to broaden the reach of this event to be more inclusive of our community members, businesses, and organizations who share our love of open space, animal well-being, and the Piedmont.”

MARSGMI will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and maintain communication with the Great Meadow Foundation, state and local health officials, and the USEF and FEI.

For more information, visit Great Meadow International.

[MARS Equestrian Returns as the Title Sponsor of 2020 Great Meadow International and Is in Close Partnership with the Organizing Committee to Run a Safe Event]

Covid-19 Statement on Status of 2020 Ocala Jockey Club International 3-Day Event

By on May 25, 2020 9:16 am -

Especially since its designation as new host of the CCI4*-L National Championships, the Ocala Jockey Club International 3-Day Event is a hugely important fixture on the U.S. fall eventing calendar. Scheduled to take place Nov. 12-15, 2020 in Reddick, Florida, the event has this morning released the following statement on its status.

Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

The health of our competitors, spectators, officials, volunteers and everyone else involved in the Ocala Jockey Club 3-Day Event production is very important to us. We have been following all related updates regarding the COVID-19 pandemic to assess the potential impact on the OJC Event. Based on what we know at this time, we feel confident that the 2020 event can run as scheduled. To keep up to date with updates, please subscribe to our email newsletter and follow us at our social media channels.

The 2020 Ocala Jockey Club International 3-Day Event is designated as the CCI4*-L National Championships. Additionally, due to the rescheduled Tokyo Olympic Games set to occur in the summer of 2021, the OJC Event is an important Olympic qualifier. As a number of 4* and 5* events have cancelled across the world due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it is highly important to Team USA and USEF the High Performance program that this event be held as scheduled.

The 5th annual Ocala Jockey Club International 3-Day Event is set to run from November 12th to 15th at the 950-acre Ocala Jockey Club farm in Reddick, Florida. The scenery is breathtaking, with the cross-country competition weaving its way through Spanish-moss laden oak trees and rolling hills unexpected in the Florida landscape. The prepared galloping tracks have gained reputation among riders as having some of the best footing in the country, if not in the world.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has certainly created much uncertainty to health and the economy in all corners of activities and locations. This is even more so the case for sport events of international caliber like the OJC 3-Day Event, with competitors and spectators traveling domestically and internationally,” said Pavla Nygaard, President of the Ocala Jockey Club. “There are many months of planning involved to stage a world-class event. Based on our communications with stakeholders to date, it is clear that competitors are excited for the OJC Event to run, and so is the Ocala community.”

In 2018 Ocala Jockey Club 3-Day Event won the 2018 Florida Sports Foundation’s Small Market Event of the Year award.

“While some of our regular sponsors may need to pull back in times of economic recovery, we are looking forward to working creatively together with the community toward another successful competition,” Pavla continued. “The event has provided over $1 million annual economic impact to Marion County. This year, more than ever before, the community will benefit from this event. America has missed the inspiration that sports provide, and we believe that this event is an important part of recovery for Ocala, Florida and our nation. As an outdoors event set on hundreds of acres, we feel confident that the event can run safely and successfully with social distancing and other safety protocols.”

There will be four FEI levels of competition: CCI2*-L, CCI3*-L, CCI4*-S and CCI4*-L. Each of the levels also features special recognition and prizes for young horses and off-track Thoroughbreds, with the popular Thoroughbred Makeover Masterclass event showcased by the Retired Racehorse Project. More updates and information about the Ocala Jockey Club International 3-Day Event will be available at the event website at www.OJC3de.com.

The Ocala Jockey Club facility is a 950-acre crown jewel in the horse country of Ocala, Florida. It serves as a Thoroughbred training farm and to stand stallions, as well as featuring townhomes and an iconic clubhouse functioning as a unique venue for weddings, meetings and other special events. For more information on the Ocala Jockey Club, visit www.ocalajc.com.

[COVID-19 STATEMENT: 2020 Ocala Jockey Club International 3-Day Event Status]

Monday News & Notes from Fleeceworks

By on May 25, 2020 5:00 am -

This incredible shot of Anneli Drummond-Hay (who would go on to be the first-ever winner of Burghley!) when she was just 16 at the Junior European Championships has been doing the rounds on social media over the weekend and all we can say is WOW.

Happy whatever-day-of-the-week-it-is! Time means nothing and UberEats means everything, and the thought of leaving a start box again one day in the not-too-distant future is the glue holding it all together right now. If I seem a bit giddy today, it’s because the weekend saw me get my first jump with my trainer in about 11 weeks, and for 45 blissful minutes, life was truly, utterly wonderful. I’ll be dining out on that feeling all week, and I suggest that if you can, you leave the ground this week with your horses. It’s the easiest pick-me-up I can think of.

National Holiday: It’s National Wine Day, baby, and I’ve been training for today’s celebrations for two months straight.

Your Monday reading list:

British five-star eventer Matthew Wright is at the helm of a new initiative to offer mental health support to riders. Riders Minds comes complete with easily-accessible online resources, an inbuilt support system, and a 24/7 hotline for anyone who needs a listening ear. In a sport that often makes us believe that toughness means soldiering on silently through any kind of pain, this is a seriously welcome network. [New service to support all riders’ mental health]

Jan Byyny is the latest rider to take part in Athletux’s A Letter to Me series, and it’s a good one. “You are going to go so many places with this dream of yours, but there will be disappointments and you will never forget the moments that did not go according to plan, or the words spoken to you,” she writes in an inspiring retelling of her story thus far. Monday motivation – sorted. [A Letter to Me – Jan Byyny]

Want to take this extra time away from competing to make sure all your dressage scores are sub-30? This quick read from Dressage Today gives you the tools to tackle a common eventer issue – tension through the back. You’ll be well prepared to ride for swinging, fluent, authentic paces before you know it. [Go Down to Go Up: Promoting Relaxation in the Horse’s Back]

Stephen Bradley looks back on his 1993 Burghley victory and man, if you love a fine eventing vintage, you’ll love this. American Thoroughbred lovers, you’ll love it even more. Promise. [Memories from the Vet Box with Stephen Bradley]

It’s a listen rather than a read, but pop this on while you’re mucking out this morning. Back in 1986, the legendary Ginny Elliott was a guest on the classic Radio 4 show Desert Island Discs, and she’s every bit as charming and open as you’d hope she’d be. It’s fascinating listening and something a bit different from the usual horsey interview. [Desert Island Discs: Ginny Elliott]

Monday video from Fleeceworks: Motivation and, um, muscles.

In need of a bit more pep in your step this week? Try inspiration pecs – sorry, that’s Panic at the Disco songs, as per British eventer Alex Bragg, who probably says some interesting things in this video, but we can’t remember. Anyone else feeling a bit warm?

 

Waredaca H.T. Rescheduled to June 13-14 + Important Entry Info

By on May 24, 2020 12:58 pm -

Waredaca Horse Trials (rescheduled from May for June 13-14 in Gaithersburg, Maryland) has issued the following statement about their upcoming event:

While hoping to run our event, much depends on the status of Covid restrictions in the state and our county of Maryland. We will announce a decision on June 5. 

Until we are confirmed to run…

1. Please enter WITH ALL REQUIRED PAPERWORK but DO NOT INCLUDE PAYMENT.

2. Once/If we are confirmed to run, this will be announced and PAYMENT SHOULD BE DONE TO COMPLETE EACH ENTRY.

3.  NO ENTRY will be scheduled until it is complete-paperwork and full payment

4.  NO ENTRY REFUNDS after the POST ENTRY/CLOSING DATE OF JUNE 5.

PLEASE CAREFULLY REVIEW OUR CURRENT OMNIBUS LISTING. THE ENTRY PROCESS ALL PAPERLESS, ALL COMPLETED IN ADVANCE OF THE EVENT/YOUR ARRIVAL. 

NEW this year… DRESSAGE TEST OF CHOICE!! Now, have the opportunity to ‘practice’ a test before doing your competition ride! Riders can perform whatever test they wish, in a different arena and under a different judge before riding their competition test! Get exposure to the dressage area and a chance to do your own test ride first! Sign up under ‘other,’ identifying your test of choice and including your fee with the total! Easy!! Also NEW… warm ups and performance arenas with improved attention to cross country footing too!

Any other questions, please contact either [email protected] OR [email protected].

Thanks for your patience and support. Gretchen, Robert, Steph and the Waredaca Crew

Waredaca’s opening date is April 28 and its closing date is May 26.

View a calendar of rescheduled events here. Go Eventing (Soon!)

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: 4 Bold Bays

By on May 24, 2020 9:00 am -

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

Beautiful, bold and bay? What more could you ask for in an eventer? Here are four listed for sale on Sport Horse Nation:

R. H. S Caspar Conthargos. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Talented Imported Gelding

R. H. S Caspar Conthargos, 2014 Imported Oldenburg gelding. 16.3hh. Recent radiographs available.

This dark bay son of Conthargos has that star quality. He is a beautiful package of movement, jump, looks, and a sweet and snuggly disposition. Schooling cross country well, and ready to compete as soon as we are able.

He has three outstanding paces, highlighted by his naturally powerful and springy way of moving. He is proving to have an excellent and consistent style over the fence that will catch anyone’s eye.

Sire Conthargos at the age of four, won the Deister Champions with a 9.5 and, in 2009, effortlessly qualified for the German Champions. His offspring have easily dominated all show jumping events.

Dam sire Eurocommerce Berlin himself was a World Equestrian Games, and European Championships Gold Medalist, as well as a winner of multiple Grand Prixs. Caspar Conthargos’ mother has already produced a 1.60 m show jumper.

With his endless scope, sweet temperament, and with the right training, the future is bright for this top quality youngster. Located in Idaho.

Cuervo Gold. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Safe and Experienced Eventing Horse

“Apollo” (Cuervo Gold) is a 16 year old 16.2 hand TB Gelding. He has taken his current rider from a beginner, with little to no experience, to training in just 3 years. Apollo is bold, and will jump anything you put in front of him. He has an unblemished cross country record. Apollo is a great confidence giver in all 3 phases for all levels of riding. He consistently places in ribbons at shows including Ocala, Florida. He loves to go trail riding. Apollo is ready to show a new rider the ropes of competition in a safe and fun way! Located in Georgia.

Excel Star Renaissance. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Top Class Irish Sport Horse Excel Star Renaissance

If you’re looking to go to the top of the sport … come look at Excel Star Renaissance! She has the movement, gallop and jump to be a top class competitor. Here’s a video of her cross country schooling yesterday: youtu.be/CVTQDZdXFY0

Excel Star Renaissance: 2015 16.2h bay imported Irish Sport Horse mare By Tolan R out of Arko-D (by Arko III)

Has already earned ribbons at Training level and is ready to keep progressing. This mare has it all … scope, step and jump! Plus she has the brain to match her beauty! We expect her to go far in eventing and she’d make a great match for someone looking to bring along a quality young horse. She’s suitable for a junior, young rider or adult amateur, but talented enough for a professional. Located in South Carolina.

That’s the Stuff. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Preliminary Level Eventer *Price Reduced*

That’s the Stuff is a 2010 16.3h OTTB gelding who is competing at the preliminary level and qualified for a CCI2*-S. Russell is a bold, athletic OTTB who has shown promise in all three phases, but is still working to put all three phases together consistently. With that being said, he is very personable in the barn and a real blast to ride xc! He loves being an event horse. I’m looking for the right match for him. Price reduced because the girl who was part-leasing him has a new ride, and I have more horses due to arrive. Located in Florida.

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