Classic Eventing Nation

Thursday News & Notes

By on Nov 6, 2025 12:01 am -

Kiwi Olympian Jesse Campbell is returning to the U.S. to teach a clinic hosted by the University of Kentucky’s Intercollegiate Eventing Team November 22-23! The clinic will be hosted at Double B farm in Lexington, KY and carries a cost of $360 for two days or $180 for one day. Beginner Novice through Intermediate/Preliminary are offered, and auditing is also available if you aren’t able to ride. You can learn more and register here.

U.S. Weekend Events

H.T. at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [Volunteer]

River Glen Fall H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Times/Scores]

Fleur de Leap H.T. (LA): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Volunteer]

Full Moon Farm Fall H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

Mark your calendars! The 2026 USEA Young Event Horse (YEH) Symposium is set for Monday, February 16 in Ocala, FL. With two sessions scheduled at Majestic Oaks and Longwood Farm, the day will offer a deep dive into young horse development, judging insight, and riding demos with top international riders. From jumping full YEH courses to Q&A sessions and evening social sessions and refreshments, it’s a can’t-miss educational opportunity for breeders, owners, riders and everyone in between. Registration is open and you can learn more here.

The FEI’s proposed update to the blood rule is raising major questions across Europe, particularly in Germany, where animal welfare is constitutionally protected. Under the new rule, minor instances of visible blood would no longer lead to automatic disqualification, but instead could result in a warning, unless repeated. While the FEI says this is part of a broader Equine Welfare Strategy, critics argue the change undermines the principle that horse welfare must always come before competitive or commercial interests. German law may even prevent the rule’s application nationally due to strict animal welfare statutes, and the German Equestrian Federation (FN) has already issued strong criticism. With the reputation of the sport and its social license under increasing scrutiny, this revision is sure to remain a hot topic. You can read a deeper dive in this piece from Alicia Zimmer, a legal trainee and avid equestrian, here.

In the latest “Center Aisle” column on Practical Horseman, respected trainer and judge Holly Hugo-Vidal breaks down the proper sequence of aids — leg, voice, spur, and stick — and explains why clarity and timing are key when correcting a horse. No matter the issue, Holly emphasizes staying methodical, not emotional, and always tailoring your correction to the horse’s level and the situation at hand. Read more here.

Video Break

Listen to an important session on mental health, both for professional grooms and the broader horse world, in the latest USEA Grooms Association roundtable:

Applications Now Open: American Horse Trials Foundation to Award “Chasing the Gold” Grants to Support U.S. Riders Aiming for the World Stage

By on Nov 5, 2025 9:00 am -

Sharon White and Claus 63. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

The American Horse Trials Foundation (AHTF) is proud to announce the continuation and expansion of its “Chasing the Gold” Grant, a new funding initiative designed to support U.S. eventing athletes with their sights set on international success.

Launched in 2025, the grant awarded its first recipient, Sharon White, with critical support to compete and train in Europe. Now, applications are open for the 2026 cycle, with two grants of $25,000 each available to promising horse-and-rider combinations who demonstrate both capability and commitment to competing at the highest levels of the sport.

The mission of the “Chasing the Gold” Grant is simple: to strengthen and directly impact the United States’ ability to win medals at CCIO competitions and major international events. The grant provides $25,000 in funding per recipient, which may be used toward European competition expenses, training, and related travel costs, pending AHTF approval.

The Foundation will give priority to athlete/horse pairs who:

  • Have completed a CCI4-Long* with zero cross-country jumping penalties within the last two years, and
  • Have not yet represented the U.S. on an Olympic or World Championship team

Applicants are asked to present a clear and actionable plan that outlines their training, competition, and business strategy toward international success. The selection committee is looking for driven, thoughtful athletes with a long-term vision that aligns with the Foundation’s goal: helping the U.S. win on the world stage.

How to Apply

Applications for the 2026 “Chasing the Gold” Grant are due by November 21, 2025. Submissions should be sent via email to [email protected]. The two selected recipients will be announced during the 2025 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention Awards Ceremony. The application can be downloaded here.

About the American Horse Trials Foundation

The American Horse Trials Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to help eventing riders and organizers raise tax-deductible financial support for national and international competition. The Foundation’s latest initiative, “Chasing the Gold,” represents a bold step forward in cultivating the talent and infrastructure necessary for U.S. athletes to thrive on the world stage.

For more information about eligibility and how to apply, contact [email protected].

Wednesday News & Notes

By on Nov 5, 2025 12:01 am -

Just under a few days to go before the bidding official opens for this year’s Goresbridge Go for Gold Select Event Horse Sale! We’re counting the minutes (and our pennies, to see if an EN horse materializes from Ireland) before the sale begins on November 12. Don’t miss out on our Wishlist of horses here as well as the full catalog and instructions for placing your bid(s) here.

U.S. Weekend Events

H.T. at Majestic Oaks (FL): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [Volunteer]

River Glen Fall H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Times/Scores]

Fleur de Leap H.T. (LA): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Volunteer]

Full Moon Farm Fall H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

In a powerful personal essay for Horse Network, Jamie Sindell captures a truth many in the equestrian world feel but rarely voice: it’s not the horses that break our hearts, it’s the people. From misrepresented horses to broken promises and a heartbreaking moment with her daughter, Jamie lays bare the emotional cost of trying to do right in a sport where not everyone plays fair. But even through betrayal and burnout, she finds her answer: we don’t quit. Not when we can be the good ones. Not when the horses need us most. Read the full story here.

As the 2025 FEI General Assembly approaches, Equerry / Co’s Christine Bjerkan explores the growing tension between public perception and rider reality in international equestrian sport. In her latest deep dive, she examines how welfare-led reforms have progressed—from protective headgear mandates to the Equine Welfare Action Plan—but notes that without authentic athlete inclusion, policy risks becoming performative rather than practical. Drawing comparisons with FIFA and Formula 1, Christine calls for a new era of collaborative governance, where riders are treated not just as competitors but as co-creators of the sport’s future. Read the full essay here, and don’t forget that this year’s FEI General Assembly will be live streamed from Hong Kong on November 7. Check your local times, but more information can be found here.

Content Warning: distressing animal cruelty details. Ohio law enforcement says it could take up to 18 months to file charges after four decomposed horses were discovered locked inside stalls at a Salem show barn late last month. According to local reports, the bodies were hidden inside a boarded-up covered round pen at Pure Gold Stables — property that still held clinics as recently as February. Officials believe some of the horses may have been dead up to two years. The investigation now involves multiple agencies, including the Columbiana County Humane Society and the Ohio Division of Wildlife, and authorities say potential felony charges are likely, but months away. Authorities are asking anyone with factual information to contact the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office detective division at (330) 424-7255. You can read the latest on the case here.

Video Break

Watch Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach Z gallop to victory in the CCI3*-S at Virginia Horse Center this past weekend:

Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14 Punctuate 2025 with Galway Downs CCI4*-L Win

By on Nov 4, 2025 9:30 am -

Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Karen O’Neal has been doing things the hard way for a long time — driving between six or seven barns a day, setting her own fences, building her program on borrowed time and long days. Based in North Bend, WA and generally producing just one upper-level horse at a time, Karen calls her “a little crazy right now,” but every now and then, something starts to take shape out of the “chaos.”

In science, they call it emergence. When order rises unexpectedly from disorder. All the long, scattered hours, the exhaustion, the near-misses quietly organize themselves into a perfect moment. And this weekend at The Eventing Championships Galway Downs, that moment belonged to Karen.

Karen becomes the new CCI4*-L champion at California’s sole event at the 4*-L level with Annika Asling’s Clooney 14, a horse neither of them truly anticipated becoming such when he was purchased off a video as a three-year-old. Bred in Germany by Christoph Hermann, Clooney 14 (who’s also known as “Cloonbear” in the barn) was a whopping 16.1 when he was brought to the U.S., and now he’s matured to 17.1. Annika had initially purchased him for herself, to become her Preliminary horse, but after putting in some foundational groundwork, she opted to hand the reins over to Karen. He was a sensitive, spooky horse as he grew up, and Annika knew Karen would be able to channel his talent into something big.

For her part, Karen has produced several horses to the Advanced level, but she’s not had a 4* horse until now. In Clooney 14, she may even have a 5* horse — she’s got her sights set on Kentucky in 2026 — but first, there were some boxes to check off.

Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

Together, they made good on Clayton Fredericks’ cross country at Galway Downs, a course that exerted its influence and opened the door for a new leader after Rebecca Farm 4*-L winners Tamie Smith and Lillet 3 had trouble at the final water question. This weekend was their third 4*-L effort, and the first they jumped clear on cross country. Previously, they’d run Rebecca Farm’s offering twice, but Karen now thinks the altitude change (Kalispell is about 2,500 feet higher than North Bend, and about 2,000 feet higher than Temecula) could have an adverse effect on her horse, who wouldn’t have the most Thoroughbred influence in his breeding.

“I’ve been working on his dressage a lot, and then really getting him straighter, getting him straighter to the fences and stronger,” Karen said. Because of his towering stature, Karen’s focused a lot on strength. Clooney 14’s uphill build makes him a natural on the flat, but ongoing strength and fitness work have been key. “The Longs are hard for him, because he’s such a big boy. We have some hills behind the property where he’s boarded at, and so I go out there and I do trot sets up and down the hills and gallop. And then I take him once a week to a race track and gallop him on that and do some sprints with him.”

She doesn’t have a ton of help: her daughter, Patience, used to ride at the upper levels and had been helping with teaching clients at home, but she’s recently moved out. Karen’s got one person helping her, a dressage coach who she goes to for lessons when she can, and a family of clients who are based out of a handful of different barns. When she rides Clooney at home, she sets her own fences as she’s often on her own. She and a client are currently in the process of finding a permanent home base so she can have everyone under one roof, but until that time comes, it’s a lot of hours spent in the truck and a lot of quiet.

Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.

“It’s a little overwhelming, right now,” she admits. “My daughter, was helping me, just left, so I’m taking on all her students too. I have a young girl helping me a little bit, which is helping. But I really need to get everybody in one spot. I ride by myself. I have no help. I used to ride with Erik [Duvander] when he would come up, but it’s not often I’m getting lessons. I really appreciate it when I have lessons!”

She plans to travel south to train with Kentucky 5* winner Tamie Smith this winter, once she legs Clooney 14 up from his holiday. “[I’ll] bring him down here in January and start working on fitness and hopefully riding with Tamie a bunch,” she said. “Having her help me get him fitter and stronger and get that dressage — I mean, he’s capable of doing very well in dressage, if we can just get it a little better put together.”

And then, if things go to plan, it’ll be all signs point to Kentucky and the debut of a lifetime on a horse that’s been a special place of bonding between her and Annika. “[Winning at Galway this weekend] does make me proud,” Karen said. “I’ve been his close to his sole rider. His owner rode him some for a while, but the past few years I’ve ridden him on my own.”

To view full results from The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs, click here. To read more from The Eventing Championships, click here.

Tuesday News & Notes from Kentucky Performance Products

By on Nov 4, 2025 12:01 am -

It’s the end of an era and the celebration of a legacy: Kentucky Performance Products recently honored its beloved founder Karen Isberg with a dedicated bench at Lexington’s Masterson Station Park. After more than 25 years at the helm, Karen retired this year, leaving behind a brand synonymous with trust, innovation, and heartfelt horsemanship. From the development of flagship products like Elevate® and InsulinWise®, to penning KPP’s iconic taglines (“The horse that matters to you matters to us®”), Karen built more than a company, she built a community. Her support of the Masterson Equestrian Trust Foundation further reflects her deep-rooted commitment to the horses and people of Kentucky. Karen, we’re raising a scoop of Elevate® in your honor. Thank you, and congratulations on a retirement well-earned!

U.S. Events Opening Entries Today

None!

U.S. Events Closing Entries Today

SAzEA Fall H.T. (AZ)

News & Reading

Lexi Young was one of eight participants in the 2025 USEA Youth Mentorship Program this summer, gaining hands-on experience at the USEF Eventing Young Rider Championships at Loch Moy Farm. From shadowing FEI officials on dressage day to walking cross country courses with designers and helping in the vet box on Saturday, Lexi got an all-access look at the inner workings of a major event. Highlights included working with judges like Sara Miller Leary, learning horse management tips from Max Corcoran, and celebrating a silver medal with the Area I team. Lexi called the experience “the opportunity of a lifetime” and encourages other young riders to get involved, and you can read her recap of her experience here.

In August 2025, USEA Educational Partner #WeRideTogether launched “Out of Bounds,” a powerful and unflinching video series that tackles the complex realities of grooming and abuse in sports. Within just weeks, the series reached more than 25 million viewers, underscoring its resonance and urgency. Combining raw storytelling with survivor voices, Out of Bounds aims to spark early recognition, foster conversation, and drive culture change—before abuse can happen. It’s not a PSA—it’s the human experience, and it’s already making waves. Hear more from #WeRideTogether founder Carrie Kehring and watch the series here.

In a moving essay published on The Chronicle of the Horse, lifelong equestrian and entrepreneur Rosanna Fay shares how her heart horse, Cosmo, became an unexpected lifeline for her mother-in-law Bev, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2024. After relocating to New Hampshire to help care for Bev full-time, Rosanna brought Cosmo along—only to discover that he became a powerful emotional anchor for Bev, reconnecting her to a long-held childhood dream. Their story is a testament to the healing presence of horses and the quiet, present-moment magic they offer—especially to those navigating memory loss. Read the full essay here.

Sponsor Corner: Kentucky Performance Products

When your horse needs more energy without the risk, trust Equi-Jewel®, developed by Kentucky Performance Products to meet the demands of today’s athletes, hard keepers, and equine partners of all kinds.

Powered by stabilized rice bran, Equi-Jewel delivers cool, calorie-dense energy that supports muscle function, weight maintenance, and overall health—without the spikes and crashes of grain-heavy diets. Whether you’re fueling a four-star horse, helping a senior maintain condition, or balancing a low-starch ration, Equi-Jewel brings a safe, natural boost backed by science.

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From eventers to broodmares, stallions to sale horses, Equi-Jewel® is the smart choice when every calorie counts.

Learn more and explore KPP’s full range of supplements at www.kppusa.com

Video Break

Watch Japanese racehorse Forever Young win the Breeders’ Cup Classic this weekend in southern California, becoming one of the richest racehorses of all time in the process:

Weekend Winners: Galway Downs, Virginia, Texas Rose, & Rocking Horse

By on Nov 3, 2025 2:30 pm -

As October wraps up and November begins, the fall season is leaning into Championship season, where we saw Championships running at Galway Downs and Texas Rose, as well as events running from Starter through FEI divisions.

Congrats to all of our Weekend Winners, with a special shout out to the winner of our Unofficial Low Score Award, Paige Hewlett Jackson and Bossier EF, who scored a 19.1 in the Open Beginner Novice A division at Texas Rose!

The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs (CA): [Website][Scores]

CCI 4*L: Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14 (57.6)
CCI 3*L: Tamra Smith and Jump To Day D (28.6)
CCI 2*L: Tamra Smith and Solaguayre Cantata (27.3)
CCI 1*L: Megan Sykes and HSH Tangerine (32.2)
Open Preliminary: India McEvoy-Chisholm and E’zara (32.3)
Preliminary – Championship: Amber Birtcil and Mississipi (33.5)
Open Modified: AnniePearl Stroud and Frogadt (34.0)
Open Modified – Championship: Erin Kellerhouse and Million Bitcoin (27.8)
Modified/Training – Championship: Amber Birtcil and Prince of Oolde (20.7)
Open Training: Erin Kellerhouse and Jonty (26.2)
Senior Training Rider – Championship: Isabella Rega and Blurred Lines (29.6)
Training Horse: Karen O’Neal and Pendleton GB (40.9)
Training Rider: Nicole LaGrange and Excel Star Clovers Chip (27.6)
Novice Horse: Anya Mason and Chalten (32.8)
Novice Rider: Madeline Slocum and Spf Vision Quest (32.5)
Open Novice: Sarah Ross and MBF Insta (30.3)
Senior Novice Rider – Championship: Fielding Neale and Picasso (48.4)
Training/Novice – Championship: Amber Birtcil and Oxford K (24.6)
Beginner Novice/Starter – Championship: Allyson Hartenburg and MBF Longford (27.8)
Beginner Novice Horse: Stephanie Simard and Kelani (22.8)
Beginner Novice Rider: Kylie Schaffer and Million Dollar Dulceria (28.1)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider – Championship: Sierra Lynessa Leigh and #Iwokeuplikethis (29.1)
Novice/Beginner Novice – Championship: Katherine Robinson and Sippin N Kissin (29.3)
Open Beginner Novice: Lauren Billys Shady and Chacco (26.3)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider – Championship: Justin Flach and V Power AF Z (30.6)
Open Starter: Susan Sheehan and VC Caalif Elmy (27.1)
Senior Starter – Championship: Cynthia Allen Lapp and Ruby Pearl (35.3)
Junior Starter – Championship: Sierra Clayton and Pancake (59.7)

Virginia Horse Center Eventing Fall (VA): [Website][Scores]

CCI 3*S: Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach Z (24.7)
CCI 2*L: Phillip Dutton and Autumn Leaves (24.2)
CCI 2*S: Tim Bourke and DHI Kevin G (27.9)
CCI 1*L: Kenta Hiranaga and Promised Land TH (24.9)
Advanced/Intermediate: Lynn Symansky and Bounce 6 (48.9)
Open Intermediate: Sharon White and Quizas (36.8)
Open Preliminary A: Megan Edwards and Global Dynasty (31.2)
Open Preliminary B: Carinne Wancowicz and Deichkind 10 (35.0)
Preliminary Rider: Reese Dellangelo and Carlson 119 (28.4)
Modified Rider: Elisabeth Tansey and Night Moves (35.8)
Open Modified: Kaitlin Clasing and TGS Lions Sunshine (27.3)
Junior Training Rider: Ainsley Riddle and Rockin’ Rowan (35.8)
Open Training: Dominic Schramm and Sneaking Suspicion (28.1)
Senior Training Rider A: Maggie Hoover and He’s So Funny (32.6)
Senior Training Rider B: Alicia Turner and Key Play (32.0)
Training Horse A: Kenta Hiranaga and Dixon (25.3)
Training Horse B: Emily Mastervich and MGH HighLife (31.9)
Junior Novice Rider: Peyton James and LH Peter Parker (27.2)
Novice Horse: Megan Edwards and Mac Daddy (31.7)
Open Novice A: Erin Weil and Patriot Games (33.7)
Open Novice B: Dayna Blumel and Cabo Wabo (30.8)
Senior Novice Rider A: Regina Turner and Heigh Ho Hero (30.1)
Senior Novice Rider B: Lucy Leff and Wellsprings Cool Guy (31.9)
Beginner Novice Horse: Logan Harris and Ondine (29.1)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Catheryn Davis and Fashionable Man (23.8)
Open Beginner Novice: Hannah Moser and Caleidoscope (32.5)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider A: Evan Harris and RREF Rubix (23.5)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider B: Liana Theroux and Our Golden Chance (30.0)
Starter A: Anna Flora and Love Potion #9 (31.0)
Starter B: Madison Woschkolup and LH It’s Bo Time (28.7)

Texas Rose Horse Park H.T. (TX): [Website][Scores]

Intermediate/Preliminary: Amanda Merritt and Apparition (51.6)
Open Preliminary: Laura Sparks and HVL Ravensdale (34.0)
Preliminary – Championship: Shelby Bradley and Commando D’ Osthuy (40.0)
Modified – Championship: Elle White and Biscotti (32.1)
Modified Rider: Keeya Jones and Kingmaker (33.8)
Open Modified: Julie Wolfert and Xkuz (29.1)
Junior Training Rider: Caden Carter and FE Santos (26.7)
Open Training: Sarah Dawson and KIZMET (27.6)
Preliminary/Training: Laura Vello and Duke of Rock (24.7)
Senior Training Rider: Stephanie Lewis and Flashing ARkie (33.1)
Training – Championship: Hannah Corlett and Ernest Fuerst Dance (28.6)
Junior Novice Rider A: Amelia Lightfoot and Brooklyn (21.4)
Junior Novice Rider B: McKenzie Spain and Leonardo Della Malaspina (28.1)
Novice – Championship: Olivia Pratt and Fernhill Beautiful Boy (30.3)
Open Novice: Camdyn Rahe and Stonehavens Dream (28.3)
Senior Novice Rider: Kristi Boyd and Fenway (34.8)
Beginner Novice – Championship: Katie Carney and Talk of Texas (26.3)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Addison Hamlett and Rubiginous RC (27.5)
Open Beginner Novice A: Paige Hewlett Jackson and Bossier EF (19.1)
Open Beginner Novice B: Emily Shelton and Lunaria (33.1)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider: Donna Struke and Singing in the Wind (33.9)
Starter A: Terri Miller and Beau Regard (34.0)
Starter B: Peyton Lewis and Hackberry Caballero (32.7)
Starter C: Macy Clark and The After Party (22.0)
Starter – Championship: Nancy Rinn and REMINGTON STEEL (26.9)
Tadpole: Natalie Patterson and Troubadour (39.3)

Rocking Horse Fall H.T. (FL): [Website][Scores]

Open Intermediate: Clark Montgomery and HSH Marshall (32.4)
Open Preliminary A: Katie Malensek and Civento (27.1)
Open Preliminary B: Emily Szokol and Very Cooley (29.7)
Preliminary Rider: Hannah Willford and DHI Kloosterboy (28.2)
Modified Rider: Kennedy Langmo and Knock Out (27.7)
Open Modified: William Ward III and Enzo (28.0)
Junior Training Rider: Addison Borton and Way Too Marvelous BSR (29.7)
Open Training: Robin Walker and DHI Milan (25.9)
Senior Training Rider: Valli Corbin and Napoleon Z (34.2)
Novice Rider: Serafina Deldon and Prince Renan (33.7)
Open Novice: Kimmy Cecere and Fernhill Candy Time (26.7)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Zoe Holmes and TF Rylee (28.9)
Open Beginner Novice: Melissa Morgan Paul and SSH Better Yet (31.5)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider: Michael Dennis and Celtic Sapphire (32.9)
Starter: Cathy Rotola and BKP Nick Of Time (32.3)

A Bright Fall Season for Autumn Leaves and Phillip Dutton with CCI2*-L Win at VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square

By on Nov 3, 2025 12:10 pm -

Phillip Dutton & Autumn Leaves. Photos by: Veronica Green-Gott

The CCI2*-L was the last FEI division to crown a winner at VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square, and after a breathtakingly competitive show jumping phase, Autumn Leaves remained on top. As Phillip Dutton and “Lenni,” owned by the Autumn Leaves’ Group, galloped around the Stave Mill Arena with blue ribbons streaming in the air, it was fitting that the fall leaves in the background had turned the Blue Ridge Mountains into bright jewel tones. It was the last event of the season for the big grey mare and, for Dutton, her performance set the tone for a bright future.

“I was really proud of her,” Dutton said. “I thought it wasn’t the biggest course, but it’s always hard after you’ve gone fast the day before to get the horses to be adjustable and stay careful. I thought she handled it really well.”

While the fences were not huge, apparently someone forgot to tell Autumn Leaves’ that. “She jumps big,” Dutton said. “Actually, when we first got her, it caused a bit of trouble because she’d go so high and then scare herself, especially on the cross country. Now she’s starting to level out and use that scope in the right way.”

Based on her scope over the fences and stellar performance over the weekend, Dutton hopes that, with some luck, 2026 will be her first season at the three-star level. A frequent flyer at the Virginia Horse Center, Dutton says he keeps coming back to the venue colloquially called “Little Bromont” because of the lessons horses— and riders— can learn.

“It’s a good education for the horses,” he said. “I thought it was a really rider-friendly run this year. The terrain plays a part on the cross country and it’s important for riders and horses to experience that. You can’t just protect yourself from having ideal or flat ground or whatever. It’s good to get out and do it. The arenas here add an element of atmosphere and excitement, so it’s a good experience.”

The seven-time Olympian galloped to victory followed by Olympian Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Olive in second place, and Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Talbots Hill in third. Behind the Olympic riders galloped Lizzie Hoff and Rylie Nelson. Lizzie Hoff won first place among the young riders in the CCI2*-L division aboard Cascadella 8, while Rylie Nelson and Galloway Sunrise took second.

Lizzie Hoff and Cascadella 8

Sponsored by Hyperion Stud, the Young Rider Award brings awareness to the importance of nurturing the up-and-coming riders who make up the future of eventing. Based on Hoff and Nelson’s performances at a tough venue this weekend, the future is bright.

While many riders cite the cross country track at the Virginia Horse Center as a difficult fitness test, Hoff says it was a breeze for Cascadella 8. “The highlight was definitely my double clear cross country,” she said. “My mare was just so on it the whole time. I really didn’t have to do much. It was just an easy, smooth round. She really worked super hard for me, especially up that big hill. So it’s a super nice feeling.”

Hoff has been an avid participant in Young Rider programs, including Emerging Athletes Under 21. She’s also a member of the USEF Under 25 Developing Team. But after having to divert away from her goal of competing at the Young Rider Championships, she said being recognized by the Hyperion Stud Young Rider Award this weekend was a nice surprise.

“So it was really fun to have this, because we have for the last like three years gone to young rider championships, and since we didn’t get to go to one this year, this is a really nice way to add that into our season,” Hoff said. “I was really excited. It was nice to get the recognition and good. And for my horses, too— it was just nice to have that added on to a good weekend with the horses.”

Hoff has big dreams that she says have been supported by a variety of young rider programs early on in her career. “I’m hoping that I’ll have a good string of horses over the coming years to hopefully breach the goal of being a professional and doing some team stuff for the US. That’s the goal,” she said.

Rylie Nelson and Galloway Sunrise.

Nelson, who hopes to have a career in business as well as dabble in professional horse sports, was also excited to be recognized by the Hyperion Stud Young Rider Awards. After finishing with a score of 31.0 aboard Fylicia Barr’s former five-star horse, Galloway Sunrise, Nelson said finishing second in the Young Rider Awards was a great comeback after struggling in the spring.

“I think having a double clear cross country round was definitely the highlight [of my weekend],” Nelson said. “I tried to do the two-long here in the spring and just didn’t quite get around. So really, having a good, confident cross country round was just such a good feeling.”

Known as “Sunny” at the barn, Nelson said that her partner Galloway Sunrise has taken on the professor role with the young rider. “I did my first Modified on her and I just did my first intermediate on her,” she said. “She’s really taught me a lot. I’ve ridden with Fylicia for years. So it’s a really special partnership and opportunity.”

Nelson was a team member for her area’s Young Rider team in both 2024 and 2025. She said the young rider program has helped her make connections that she wouldn’t have been able to otherwise. “It’s such a great experience,” she said. “It really is just like a teaching moment for young riders. It keeps bringing people into the sport and it’s a good experience to be on a team and feel the different pressures of that and understand how that works, and also just to meet other young riders. It’s definitely a nice way to make new friends.”

As the coach for the Area II Young Riders’ program, Susie Beale is an advocate for the Virginia Horse Center as providing a community gathering place and furthering the education of many young riders in the area.

“[Virginia Horse Center] is so supportive of our young rider program here in Area II,” Beale said. “The young rider program is the foundation of our sport, and hopefully these young riders are going to be our Olympians one day. Area II is doing its best to support them.”

According to Beale, young riders don’t just come to the Center for the challenging course and big atmosphere; they can also benefit from the connections they make back at the barns.

“Virginia gives the feeling of pomp and circumstance and it’s a beautifully run event,” she said. “It has FEI classes, so it gives the young riders a feeling of competing in the big time, which is a great experience. They’re stabled next to people like Ema [Klugman] or Phillip [Dutton]. They get to warm up shoulder to shoulder with these amazing riders that are here at this competition. It’s a fantastic place to learn to ride up and down these hills. It’s a true test.”

“When they come to Virginia and they’re successful at a competition like this, it just gives you an enormous sense of accomplishment,” Beale continued. “You feel proud of yourself and your horse at the end of the season. A lot of people work towards this competition all year. It’s their ultimate goal to come to Virginia and compete here at their fall Horse Trials.”

Another year and another successful competition at VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square. Without the support of event sponsors, such as Capital Square, Hyperion Stud, Triple Crown, Taylor Harris Insurance Services, Old Dominion Equine, Blue Ridge Equine, TullMD and volunteers, and a stellar team of organizers and stewards, this event would not be possible.

Virginia Horse Center Eventing Fall (VA): [Website] [Scores]

Monday News & Notes from The Event at TerraNova

By on Nov 3, 2025 12:01 am -

Here’s a fun way to start your week! Sydney Steverson, who you may know from her realness and humor on social media, posted a new video this weekend narrating her cross country ride at Rocking Horse with her horse, Superman. Sydney decided to try out commenting on her round as she rode instead of after the fact, and the final product is entertaining, educational and realistic for a lot of us watching. Enjoy, and read a full story on Sydney and her background here.

U.S. Weekend Events

The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs (CA): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer] [Live Stream]

Virginia Horse Center Eventing Fall (VA): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer]

Texas Rose Horse Park H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [CrossCountry App XC Maps]

Rocking Horse Fall H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

Mindset on a mission: Peak performance coach Nancy Dye turned a lifetime of grit into the identity-first Equestrian Rockstar Bootcamp, a 24-session program built to “rewire” riders for confidence and consistency—on and off the horse. A former WEF competitor whose coaching draws on neuroscience and strategic intervention (with a Tony Robbins twist), Nancy has turned her passion into service to others, and you can read more about her here.

Horses diagnosed with kissing spines might need a combination of interventions such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, shockwave therapy, injections, physical rehabilitation, and in more advanced cases surgery to relieve pain and restore mobility. Nathan Canada, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, of Texas Equine Hospital, in Bryan, describes the long-term management and treatment options for horses with kissing spines in this Ask TheHorse Live excerpt.

Geometry = better scores: USEF “r” dressage judge Amy Jablonovsky (Hessen Dressage, CO) built a bite-size Small Dressage Arena Quiz after spotting why so many riders struggle with 20m circles: we don’t actually know the arena math. Her quiz and keepable diagram walk you through letter order (hello, “All King Edward’s Horses Can Make Big Fences”), key distances (6m to the first letters, 14m to the middles), and circle touch points (10m from A/C and through X) so you can map circles, serpentines, and loops with confidence—and give your judge fewer “not 20 meters” notes. Read more here.

Sponsor Corner: The Event at TerraNova

Level up your spectating game at TerraNova Equestrian Center with a VIP day that mixes world-class eventing and luxe hospitality. Your ticket scores preferred parking, ringside seating, and sweeping views of the arenas and galloping lane, perfect for catching every stride of international cross country and national show jumping. From 11:00 AM–3:00 PM, tuck into a catered brunch by Bradenton favorite Taverna Toscana and make merry at the open beer & wine bar, mimosa bar, and Bloody Mary station. Tables go fast (this one sells out every year), so snag your spot now: get VIP tickets here.
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Video Break

The heart of a lion 💪

Sunday Links from Performance Equine Veterinary Services

By on Nov 2, 2025 12:01 am -

It’s high sale season all over the world, and tomorrow kicks off one very special one in Ireland’s The Monart Sale’s 3-year-old select sale. The Monart Sale showcases Ireland’s finest selection of three-year-old and older sport horses, brought together at one venue, over one exceptional event. Each horse is carefully selected by internationally recognised panel and sold by auction, all taking place within the stunning grounds of one of the world’s most renowned locations. You can see the full catalog of lots and get ready to bid here.

U.S. Weekend Events

The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs (CA): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer] [Live Stream]

Virginia Horse Center Eventing Fall (VA): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer]

Texas Rose Horse Park H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [CrossCountry App XC Maps]

Rocking Horse Fall H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [Volunteer]

Links & Reading

Former Eventer with Incredible Comeback Story Leads Lineup of Saturday Champions at US Dressage Finals

Redefined Equestrian Horse Trials Manages a Successful Run Thanks to the New ORCA Program from the USEA Foundation

‘After that, he never looked back’ – Laura Collett on the event that marked ‘the turning point of London 52’s career’

Thoroughbred Logic, Presented by Kentucky Performance Products: Spooky Season Tricks

Sponsor Corner: Performance Equine Veterinary Services

Looking for a thorough pre-purchase exam for your next horse? Performance Equine Veterinary Services in Ocala, FL can help you out with an all-things-covered exam that will set you on the best path forward with your purchase prospect. You can schedule your appointment here.

Video Break

Watch Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14’s leading cross country round that eventually helped them to the win in the Galway Downs CCI4*-L this weekend:

Bronte Beach Z and Ema Klugman Win VHC Eventing’s CCI3*-S, Presented by Capital Square

By on Nov 1, 2025 10:21 pm -

Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach Z. Photo by Veronica-Green Gott.

Bronte Beach Z and Ema Klugman have done it again at VHC Eventing, presented by Capital Square. Together, the long-time partners have been crowned champion of the CCI3*-S division on Saturday, November 1st, with a score of 24.7. This is the second time Klugman and Bronte have topped the podium in the CCI3*-S at VHC Eventing, previously winning the division in 2020.

In the five years since then, “Bronte” has competed at three five-star events, including the Maryland Five Star and the Kentucky Three Day Event. According to Klugman, that experience and her own familiarity with the venue gave them a competitive edge.

“Not much phases that horse,” Klugman said. “I’ve done [the course] quite a few times over the years, so I know how it feels, going down that hill. You don’t really want to go too fast, just because it can be a little jarring for them. There are places in the course where you have to slow down a bit, but then you can rocket up the hill. You just have to make sure you have enough horse for the loop at the top after you go up that steep hill.”

Klugman’s goal for the day wasn’t just to win, but to come in with no time faults. “It was a good day. My goal was to try to make the time, and I think I was three seconds under, so I was happy with that. Give myself a bit of a challenge,” she said. “I knew that she could do that. I just have to be organized and smooth and try not to waste time.”

Striking the right balance between protecting a horse’s confidence and pushing both rider and horse to grow requires a delicate touch. According to Klugman, VHC Eventing was the perfect time and place to push her own limits and help Bronte prepare for the CCI4*-L at Terranova.

“She felt super fit, which is great, and very game,” she said. “I think it’s good for me to practice riding at speed. It’s a delicate balance of protecting the horses and making sure they’re confident, so maybe not always going really fast. But also, you know, as a rider, it’s a skill to be able to compete under pressure. I was in the lead, so it was mine to lose.”

The Virginia Horse Center has played a role in Bronte’s education up the levels, from winning her first FEI event to solidifying the Zangersheide mare’s fitness for tougher tracks. Klugman says that if she had any advice for up-and-coming riders who were thinking about tackling the Lexington, Virginia cross country course, it would be to take advantage of the big atmosphere for all levels.

“I think what’s really nice about [VHC Eventing] is even the beginner novice and starter folks are jumping in the same stadium that the three-star horses are jumping in,” Klugman said. “It’s kind of like a three-day event feel, even if you’re doing a horse trial. I think it’s a great show. I would say to make sure you have your horse really fit, because there’s a lot of terrain and it’s very hilly here. Try to have good preparation events where you expose your horse to different environments. But I think the horses learned a ton coming here. It’s a place we love coming back to.”

Klugman also notes that winning with Bronte isn’t just a victory for herself— but also for the Bronte Beach Syndicate.

“There’s a big syndicate behind Bronte Beach who have been super loyal and gotten behind me and her for the last five or six years,” she said. “We have ups and downs and, obviously like with any work, we’re really trying to do well all the time. But I feel like I’ve made some mistakes over the course of her career and it doesn’t always go to plan, so it’s really nice to give them a good win. I really wouldn’t have the horse if it weren’t for them; I wouldn’t have been able to keep her. It’s really rewarding to have their support, and it’s an honor to ride for them.”

Phillip Dutton and Autumn Leaves. Photo by Veronica-Green Gott.

The CCI2*-L will be the last FEI division to finish this weekend and will wrap up with show jumping tomorrow afternoon. On Saturday, the top five slots on the leaderboard are populated with two Olympians– Phillip Dutton and Caroline Pamukcu. Dutton has claimed first and second with Autumn Leaves and Darwinn respectively, followed by Pamukcu with HSH Talbots Hill, HSH Olive, and HSH Cruising Spirit in that order.

Dutton and Autumn Leaves are holding onto first place by a narrow margin with a score of 23.8. This weekend marks Autumn Leaves’ first run since the CCI2*-S at Plantation Field in September.

“She hasn’t run since Plantation, so I wasn’t quite sure if she was quite ready to go quick today, but she set off really well,” Dutton said. “The terrain makes it more difficult to make the time, especially for the young horses, but I couldn’t be more pleased with her. She had a really uneventful round and was actually really good.”

Dutton cited coming in under the time limit as a concern, but crossed the finish flags just one second over the optimum time of 7:02. “I thought the time was gonna be hard to get just because of the way the track was with the terrain,” he said. “It was quite a big pull at the end for the horses to come up to the finish with the hill, so I was kind of how power I thought it would ride.”

Looking ahead to show jumping, Autumn Leaves has only a bit of time separating her from Dutton’s second-place ride, Darwinn. The competition is tight between Dutton and Pamukcu. In order to hold onto his spot in the lead, he’ll have to achieve a near double clear. “Generally she does [show] jump well, so now it’s up to me to ride well and hopefully get a good result,” he said.

Tim Bourke and DHI Kevin G. Photo by Veronica-Green Gott.

Seasoned 5* rider Tim Bourke and DHI Kevin G won the CCI2*-S division by a landslide with a score of 27.9, more than ten points ahead of second-place Stella Sunstein and Romans Mr. Kane. Owned by Lucia Strini, “Kevin” is new to Bourke Equestrian and is on trial through the fall season. But based on their performance at VHC Eventing, the future is looking bright for this new pair.

Bourke cites the work Strini has put into Kevin as a large reason for their success this weekend. “He was great today,” he said. “It’s pretty nice leaving the start box on a seasoned veteran that’s done it all. He is a reliable, good horse so you know it was really nice. I’m really happy with him.”

Like the winning pairs in all other divisions, Bourke also said time and fitness were the two most significant factors on the course on Saturday. “The time was tough,” he said. “It was a pretty big fitness test, as you’d imagine, coming up that mountain there at the end. He whizzed on up there.”

VHC Eventing was a preparatory run for Kevin and Bourke, who are planning on competing in the Intermediate at TerraNova Equestrian Center next month. “[This weekend] was a really good start to our partnership together,” Bourke said. “We won the Preliminary the other weekend and then to come here and the two short— yeah, it’s good.”

Kenta Hiranaga and Promised Land TH. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott.

Kenta Hiranaga’s first time at the Virginia Horse Center may be a tough performance to beat. Hiranaga and Promised Land TH won the division CCI1*-L with a score of 24.9.
“[I feel] so amazing. Horses are also very happy,” Hiranaga said. “But today in the stadium, the horses gave their best performances, but I was too focused on the time, and I didn’t give them the best approaches.”

Despite some room for improvement, Hiranaga and Promised Land TH pulled off a double clear show jumping round and was one of only two riders to go double clear in both cross-country and show jumping.

With help from his trainer, Olympian Boyd Martin, Hiranaga says he and “Django” are aiming to do their first CCI2* in the spring. From there, the sky’s the limit. “[I’m aiming for] LA 2028,” Hiranaga said. “With more experience, I hope [she’s a] five-star horse. Maybe [we’ll be at the] LA Olympics or the Brisbane Olympics.”

FEI competition will finish with the CCI2*-L show jumping phase Sunday morning. The final Horse Inspection will be held at 8 a.m. before show jumping begins at 9:45 a.m. During the jog, the ground jury will award a gift certificate to Tull MD for the horse and rider who are Best Presented.

Outside of FEI competition, the National Horse Trials are well underway and will wrap up Sunday afternoon. The Advanced, Intermediate, Preliminary, and Modified divisions all crowned their winning pairs on Saturday. Results and current standings are as follows:

Advanced/Intermediate

  • First – Lynn Symansky & Bounce 6
  • Second – Leslie Lamb & Banjo
  • Third – Katie Lichten & Hickstead Musterd

Open Intermediate

  • First – Sharon White & Quizas
  • Second – Sharon White & Arden Augustus
  • Third – Marley Stone Bourke & First Obama

Open Preliminary A

  • First – Megan Edwards & Global Dynasty
  • Second – Phillip Dutton & Capolino
  • Third – Bailey Hennings & HSH Redfield Red Sox

Open Preliminary B

  • First – Carinne Wancowicz & Deichkind 10
  • Second – Lucia Strini & Shirsheen Ice
  • Third – Gabby Dickerson & The Naughty Vicar

Preliminary Rider

  • First – Reese Dellangelo & Carlson 119
  • Second – Reese Dellangelo & Figaro Des Premices
  • Third – Logan Harris & Terry Jade

Modified Rider

  • First – Elisabeth Tansey & Night Moves
  • Second – Emma Jones & Discreto
  • Third – Laura Hilliard & Ballarin Shanado

Open Modified

  • First – Kaitlin Clasing & TGS Lions Sunshine
  • Second – Emeline Gilbert & MS Spirit
  • Third – Dominic Schramm & Cooley Dejavu

Junior Training Rider

  • First – Ainsley Riddle & Rockin’ Rowan
  • Second – Lillian Weidner & Just Keep Swimming
  • Third – Lexi Young & Nevertheless

Open Training

  • First – Dominic Schramm & Sneaking Suspicion
  • Second – Dominic Schramm & St Cashmere
  • Third – Leah Cort & Hamilton D’Inca

Senior Training Rider A

  • First – Lauren Allen & FGF Bob’s Wired
  • Second – Morgan Hiller & Junkanoo
  • Third – Kimberly Moore & Patrickswell Royal

Senior Training Rider B

  • First – Alicia Turner & Key Play
  • Second – Kathleen Cannon & Global Ask
  • Third – Stephanie Senserini & Monbeg Icon

Training Horse A

  • First – Kenta Hiranaga & Dixon
  • Second – Tim Bourke & Alternative Quality
  • Third – Rebecca Barber Tyler & Bondi Beach

Training Horse B

  • First – Emily Mastervich & MGH HighLife
  • Second – Kristina Koehler & Lammy Fortune
  • Third – Tim Bourke & Flash Quality

Junior Novice Rider

  • First – Peyton James & LH Peter Parker
  • Second – Elliot Bizjak & N’Pressive
  • Third – Lillian Harrod & Celtic Heritage

Novice Horse

  • First – Hannah Brandt & Fernhill Emerald
  • Second – Megan Edwards & Mac Daddy
  • Third – Logan Harris & LH Mint Julep

Open Novice A

  • First – Erin Weil & Patriot Games
  • Second – Erica Leslie Jones & R U Sure
  • Third – Hilary Fordyce & Lowhill Quidam Cruise

Open Novice B

  • First – Morgan Hiller & I See Nothing
  • Second – Dayna Blumel & Cabo Wabo
  • Third – Clara Bond & Beaverwoods Dandelion

Senior Novice Rider A

  • First – Tiffany Smith & Mischief Managed
  • Second – Regina Turner & Heigh Ho Hero
  • Third – Kim Brickley & Eloise

Senior Novice Rider B

  • First – Lucy Leff & Wellsprings Cool Guy
  • Second – Dee Tabb & Child’s Play
  • Third – Mallory Gaines & Land Rush

Beginner Novice Horse

  • First – Logan Harris & Ondine
  • Second – Molly Brown & Soko
  • Third – Caitlin Henderson & Dynamic Storm

Junior Beginner Novice Rider

  • First – Catheryn Davis & Fashionable Man
  • Second – Jocelyn Myers & New Moon Stella Bella
  • Third – Nicola Villarino & What the Devil

Open Beginner Novice

  • First – Hugh Wrigley & FE Clajano Blue PS
  • Second – Ava Wehrs & Drombane General
  • Third – Hannah Moser & Caleidoscope

Senior Beginner Novice Rider A

  • First – Evan Harris & RREF Rubix
  • Second – Emily Hummel & What’s His Face SSH3
  • Third – Julie Wotring & B E Never Say Never

Senior Beginner Novice Rider B

  • First – Liana Theroux & Our Golden Chance
  • Second – Laureanne Venter & I’ll Have Another
  • Third – Maia Schneider & Courtly Miss

Starter A

  • First – Minna Harman & VSH Devine Novelli
  • Second – Casey Jones & Trooper
  • Third – Anna Flora & Love Potion #9

Starter B

  • First – Madison Woschkolup & LH It’s Bo Time
  • Second – Katherine Scott & Point Wild
  • Third – Patricia Healy & Traditional Hat Man

Virginia Horse Center Eventing Fall (VA): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer]