Classic Eventing Nation

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on May 2, 2025 12:01 am -

Image courtesy of The Chronicle of the Horse.

We’re saddened to share the passing of Helena “Lana” du Pont Wright, the first woman to ever compete in Olympic three-day eventing, who died on April 23 at the age of 85. A true trailblazer, Lara helped pave the way for generations of women in equestrian sport—most notably by earning a spot on the U.S. team for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, where she and her teammates won team silver. Her remarkable legacy spans eventing, driving, endurance, and the founding of key institutions like the U.S. Eventing Association and Fair Hill International. Her death came just before this year’s Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, where many riders paused to reflect on her impact. “She was an icon,” said USEF Chief of Sport David O’Connor. “She shaped equestrian sport in this country,” added Allison Springer. We’re remembering her today through a beautiful tribute from The Chronicle of the Horse, which originally appeared in Untacked magazine. Make sure to read it and honor Lara’s legacy here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

The Event at Skyline (UT): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

Stable View Local Charities H.T. + USEA Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Championships (SC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Waredaca H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Texas Rose Horse Park H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/a>] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

WindRidge Farm Spring H.T. (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Winona H.T. (OH): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Major International Events

Adelaide Equestrian Festival CCI5*: [Website] [Entries/Schedule] [Live Stream]

News & Reading

The FEI has partnered with U.S.-based nonprofit #WeRideTogether to launch a free online safeguarding course aimed at preventing sexual misconduct and abuse in equestrian sport. Open to both FEI members and the wider equestrian community, the course combines athlete- and trauma-informed education with practical tools like printable resources and interactive quizzes. “The culture of sport should be one that puts morals over medals—or riders over ribbons,” said #WeRideTogether executive director Michaela Callie. The training is available now on FEI Campus. Read more here.

For NC State senior Lily Dal Cin, college has been a balancing act between riding, art, and resilience. A member of the school’s intercollegiate eventing team, Lily has navigated the ups and downs of horse injuries and academic demands while anchoring her team with steady support and positivity. With a double dose of talent in the saddle and in the studio—she’s an animation major who plans to launch a fine art business—Lily’s college experience has been defined by grit, growth, and the close-knit equestrian community that helped her thrive. Read more about Lily here.

If you’re introducing your horse to new cross country challenges like ditches, water, or banks, groundwork might be your best tool. Eventer Chelsea Canedy shares in her EQUESTRIAN+ video series how working from the ground helps horses build confidence and curiosity before ever tackling these questions under saddle. “It’s not about forcing them—it’s about helping them think through the problem,” she says. From encouraging a drink in the water to calmly stepping off a bank, her approach emphasizes safety, communication, and trust. Read and watch more here.

A new study published in the International Journal of Equine Science is shining a spotlight on a growing crisis in the equestrian world: the working conditions of grooms. Conducted by former groom Susanna Liis Ole and equestrianism professor Inga Wolframm, the study found that long hours, low pay, and lack of legal protections are driving experienced grooms out of the industry—putting horse welfare and the sport’s future at risk. Susanna will discuss the findings in a free webinar hosted by the HorseGrooms Community on May 5 at 1 p.m. EST. You can learn more here.

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

You’ll be able to follow along with some of the competition live from the USEA Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Eventing Championships at Stable View this weekend, thanks to Horse & Country! You can tune in here, and be sure to keep an eye on the USEA website for more coverage from Stable View all weekend long.

Video Break

Tune in to Elisa Wallace’s latest vlog from Kentucky:

Festival Feel for Legacy Equestrian Event at Rebecca Farm This July

By on May 1, 2025 9:30 am -

Tamie Smith and Sumas Tina Turner. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

The Event at Rebecca Farm brings the sound of thundering hooves, the sight of soaring horses and a sense of excitement for all things equestrian to Flathead Valley this summer. Presented by the non-profit Montana Equestrian Events, Inc., The Event is set for July 16-20, 2025.

Now in its 24th year, The Event shares Flathead Valley with the Under The Big Sky Music Festival on the same weekend this year. As a result, early travel and lodging arrangements are strongly encouraged!

The Event’s one-of-a-kind opportunities cover a wide spectrum.

Competitors

Emilee Libby and Toska. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Olympic-caliber equestrians will test their mettle over one of the world’s most breathtaking and challenging cross-country courses. Those with less lofty – yet equally important – competitive goals will tackle level-appropriate challenges with the same beautiful backdrops for cross-country, dressage and show jumping.

The US Eventing Association’s Classic Series will be staged in both Novice and Training divisions. This continues the popular combination of education and competition derived from eventing’s roots.

With divisions from Beginner Novice up to CCI4*-L, The Event offers something for every eventer. Bringing all levels together in one beautiful location is one of many enduring legacies left by the late Rebecca Broussard, who founded The Event in 2002.

Entries open on June 3, on the USEA’s Xentry platform, and close July 1. They fill fast!

Sponsors & Patrons

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Sponsorships offer companies many ways to reach The Events’ spectators from far and wide.

Traditional sponsorship levels emphasize on-site benefits like tickets for special viewing tents, plus advertising and promotional opportunities. These can include program ads, logo placements, banners, social media posts, and cross-country fence and show jump signage.

Limited Edition sponsorships, added in recent years, emphasize digital and media benefits to target the equestrian community more heavily. These unique opportunities include sponsorship of international divisions, prizes, the Kid Zone, the Competitor Party and the live stream that will be viewed by fans around the world.

Tax-deductible Patron Packages give supporters access to tented, well-situated, viewing areas that offer seating, daily snacks and beverages, weekend luncheon buffets, as well as the company of riders, officials, owners, sponsors and fellow enthusiasts.

Contact Marcia to discuss the perfect options for your business’ marketing goals or patron preferences. She can be reached at 406-321-1377 or by e-mail at [email protected].

Vendors

Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

As the gateway to Glacier National Park, Flathead Valley’s awe-inspiring beauty is rivaled only by the beauty of equestrian sport. This combination brings fans by the thousands and the Shopping Fair is where they gather. Along with equestrian apparel and gear, highlights include Montana-made goods, regional arts and jewelry.

Festival-style food trucks cater to wide tastes, and the free Kid Zone activities add to the Event’s reputation as a family-friendly destination worthy of return visits.

Along with a steady stream of shoppers, vendors enjoy the well-maintained grass setting and The Event’s attentive onsite staff.

Vendor applications and more information can be found here. Please e-mail [email protected] with questions.

Halt Cancer at X

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

The Event’s impact goes beyond the horse world with Halt Cancer at X. The charitable initiative was launched in 2012 by the Event’s organizer Sarah Broussard in honor of her mother Rebecca.

Through Halt Cancer at X, Montana Equestrian Events has so far provided more than $1 million in grant funds to innovative breast cancer research projects and to local non-profits that offer financial and wellness services to breast cancer patients.

Breast cancer advocacy’s pink hues grace manes, tails, helmets and haunches during The Event. Competitor pledges, auction proceeds, and donations made during The Event and throughout the year provide the basis for the annual grants. Donations to Halt Cancer at X can be made here.

Equestrian Support

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

The Event is also aligned with career-changing impacts through generous grant programs funded by the Broussard Family Charitable Trust and administered by the USEA Foundation.

The Rebecca Broussard Developing Rider Grants began in 2011. They continue Rebecca “Becky” Broussard’s legacy of assisting and encouraging riders pursuing the sport’s highest levels.

The Rebecca Broussard International Developing Rider Grant, aka the “Big Becky,” awards $50,000 to an international quality rider. The “Little Becky” National Developing Rider Grant increases to $15,000 this year, supporting riders on a similar path.

The Rebecca Farm Travel Grants provide funds to defray the costs of traveling to The Event and are open to those planning to apply for the International Developing Rider Grant.  For this year, the grants will reimburse recipients $2 a mile traveled from home for 4* contenders, and $1 a mile traveled from home for 3* riders.

Travel Grant applications are due June 1, 2025, and can be found here.  Recipients will be notified by June 15, 2025.

Volunteers Welcome

Given the multiple levels of competition and their multiple phases, The Event relies on a large volunteer team to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for all.

There’s a perfect post for most ages and abilities and roles range from assisting in the arenas or on the cross-country course, to spectator parking, hospitality, food services and pedestrian crossings. Volunteering at The Event is famously fun and no experience is required for most positions.

Volunteering info and sign-ups can be found here.

Thursday News & Notes

By on May 1, 2025 12:01 am -

It’s nearly time to kick things off with our next CCI5* of the event, this time “down under” in Australia with the Adelaide Equestrian Festival! With the time zone difference, the event will be about a day ahead of Eastern time here in the U.S., so it’s a bit of a gymnastic exercise to figure out when to tune in, but we’ve been using the World Time Buddy app to help us juggle the time zones. You can view it here to figure out when things will be happening in your time zone.

The First Horse Inspection will have already kicked off by the time you are reading this, so we’ll be looking ahead to the start of dressage, which for the 5* will happen at 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT / 12:30 a.m. BST / 1:30 a.m. CEST TODAY (Thursday). Cross country will begin on Saturday at 12 p.m. in Adelaide, which is 10:30 p.m. on Friday ET / 7:30 p.m. PT / 3:30 a.m. Saturday BST / 4:30 a.m. Saturday CEST. You will be able to follow along live on Horse & Country here. Stay tuned for more content coming your way from Atalya Boytner, our boots on the ground this week!

Adelaide Equestrian Festival CCI5*: [Website] [Entries/Schedule] [Live Stream]

U.S. Weekend Preview

The Event at Skyline (UT): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

Stable View Local Charities H.T. + USEA Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Championships (SC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Waredaca H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Texas Rose Horse Park H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/a>] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

WindRidge Farm Spring H.T. (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Winona H.T. (OH): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

News & Reading

“The people who do eventing in particular, because I’ve been to other equine events, they’re a congenial group,” says the latest featured VIP Volunteer, Debbie Hinkle. “It’s a happy atmosphere and everyone helps everyone. Why wouldn’t you want to be around that?” A longtime presence in the Area VIII community, Debbie has found a home in volunteering — and hopes others will follow suit. Read more about Debbie here.

Can’t get enough Kentucky? Neither can we! USEA has shared their photo gallery from the weekend, and you won’t want to miss some of the best moments here.

Double bridles are not an issue in themselves – but education on their use and constant learning in all areas of equestrianism are key to continuing to improve equine welfare. These are the messages from researchers who found that double bridles exert similar or less nasal pressure and rein tension than snaffles in elite horses. Read more on the research here.

In her latest Chronicle of the Horse blog, amateur jumper rider Ryan Lefkowitz pens a vulnerable and powerful reflection on what it means to fight for a place in a sport that often feels reserved for the privileged. Detailing everything from childhood rejection and dismissive trainers to moments of hard-won joy with her current horse, Mastermind ES, Ryan’s story is a reminder of the grit it takes to not only stay in the game—but to reclaim it on your own terms. A must-read for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t quite belong in the barn. Read the full blog here.

Video Break

Get a cool look behind the scenes in cross country warmup with Boyd Martin and Tim Price:

The Real Rider Cup Joins the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill

By on Apr 30, 2025 9:30 am -

Photo courtesy of Real Rider Cup.

The Real Rider Cup (RRC) organizing committee today announced dates for the annual charity show jumping competitions: Saturday, June 28th in Lexington, KY, and Saturday, October 18th at the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory, in Cecil County, MD.

Founded by Anita Motion in 2017, the Real Rider Cup has raised over $600,000 for Thoroughbred aftercare to date while increasing awareness and fostering a spirit of collaboration and community between the racing, aftercare, and equestrian industries.

“We’re grateful for the continued enthusiasm and support for our event,” said RRC founder Anita Motion. “The breed has given us all so much and we’re honored to give back by supporting a variety of aftercare organizations who are making meaningful impacts on post-racing life for Thoroughbreds. I also want to extend my gratitude to the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill team for this opportunity to increase the reach of our mission.”

Mounted on off-track Thoroughbreds and wearing the racing silks of their colleagues, employers, or other connections, participating riders pledgeto raise $1,000 for Real Rider Cup beneficiaries and contend a show jumping course, riding for fast, clean rounds. Awards are given for individual and team results, as well as top-earning fundraisers. Thoroughbred riders from across industries are welcome and encouraged. Past riders have included Olympians, champion jockeys, outriders, members of the racing press, veterinarians, exercise riders, representatives of breeding farms and corporate track management, and more.

The Lexington leg of the event of the Real Rider Cup will return to New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program on Saturday, June 28th at New Vocation’s flagship Mereworth Farm facility.

The Fair Hill leg of the event will remain on the grounds of the Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, but will shift in date and be hosted at the Fair Hill Special Event Zone, joining the official schedule of events at the MARS Maryland 5 Star to follow the conclusion of the cross-country phase of competition on Saturday, October 18th.

“On behalf of the Sport & Entertainment Corporation of Maryland, we are thrilled and honored to host the Real Rider Cup as part of our schedule of activities during the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory,” said Jeff Newman, SVP Events. “As a major equestrian event in the state of Maryland where Thoroughbreds have had a stalwart influence in the sport of eventing, we strive to do all we can to use the event as a platform to showcase and support the incredible initiatives, by organizations and individuals the likes of Anita Motion, that have done so much for the well-being of horses and the horse industry as a whole.”

Learn more at www.therealridercup.com. Proceeds of the Real Rider Cup benefit the Retired Racehorse Project, New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, and Beyond the Wire.

Wednesday News & Notes

By on Apr 30, 2025 12:01 am -

The wait is over! The MARS Badminton cross country course is now open for virtual previewing, and you can do so with the help of four-time Badminton winner Mark Todd and course designer Eric Winter over on CrossCountryApp here. Stay tuned for much more content from Badminton coming your way soon here on EN.

U.S. Weekend Preview

The Event at Skyline (UT): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

Stable View Local Charities H.T. + USEA Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Championships (SC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteer]

Waredaca H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Texas Rose Horse Park H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/a>] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

WindRidge Farm Spring H.T. (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Winona H.T. (OH): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Major International Events

Adelaide Equestrian Festival CCI5*: [Website] [Entries/Schedule] [Live Stream]

News & Reading

Yesterday, we introduced you to the USEA Intercollegiate Championships teams competing for the title at Stable View this weekend. Next up, it’s time to meet the Interscholastic Eventing League teams who will also be competing this weekend. Meet the teams here.

What went down in the latest US Equestrian Open of Eventing qualifier leg? Recap the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S in the latest podcast from the US Equestrian Open team here.

There’s not much better than taking a peek behind the scenes at a major event like Defender Kentucky. This lookback from Practical Horseman has all the moments of grit and determination you may have missed. Take a look here.

Thoroughbreds have made the difference in the careers of numerous event riders. In this write-up from Paulick Report, see how the Thoroughbred has made an impact on three riders and why the breed remains so special to our sport.

Get the story behind THAT SAVE made by Emily Hamel atop Corvett during show jumping at Kentucky this weekend. The Chronicle of the Horse has the story behind the save here.

Video Break

The aforementioned save:

Two Sanctions Given in CCI5* at Defender Kentucky

By on Apr 29, 2025 12:29 pm -

Calvin Böckmann and The Phantom of the Opera. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Two riders competing in the CCI5* at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by MARS Equestrian, have been given sanctions from the FEI. Both sanctions are related to cross country day.

German rider Calvin Böckmann was given a Recorded Warning for a Series of dangerous jumps with his horse, The Phantom of the Opera. The incidents include a jump at Pete’s Hollow, where the pair stood off from a triple bar arrowhead and subsequently nearly fell. The horse was able to get back up and continue on, but later on had another similar jump at the Cosequin Cove; the pair stayed upright at this question.

Earlier in the day on Sunday, Calvin and The Phantom of the Opera were held by the ground jury (Christian Steiner (AUT), Anne-Mette Binder (GER), and Peter Gray (CAN)) and official veterinarians at the Final Horse Inspection, but were subsequently accepted on to show jumping after re-inspection. Calvin told EN the following after he completed show jumping on Sunday, finishing 11th overall:

“It was definitely not the most ideal line I chose to go down there,” he said. “That’s a situation I think not one of us would ever want to be in. But once he got up, I didn’t even have to do anything. He just straight away started cantering again. We’ve been together for so many years, and I straight away felt that he was absolutely fine. Otherwise, I would have never, ever kept going. And then the next jumps, I felt like he jumped even better, so knowing that, for me, that was the thing that told me he also wants to keep going.”

A Recorded Warning is, by standard, given for cases of Dangerous Riding.

“Before issuing an Eventing Recorded Warning, the Ground Jury has the duty to hear the Athlete, if available,” the instructions on the FEI’s Recorded Warning card read. “At any time, the Athlete has the right to seek out the Ground Jury for any explanation related to an Eventing Recorded Warning. After the decision of the Ground Jury, a notice stating the name of the Athlete and the reason of the warning must be posted on the Official notice board. If after reasonable efforts the Athlete cannot be notified during the Period of the Event that s/he has received an Eventing Recorded Warning, the Athlete must be notified in writing within fourteen (14) days of the Event.”

Athletes can also receive Recorded Warning for offenses such as failing to see a doctor after a fall, continuing on after three refusals on cross country, cases of minor blood, and other reasons. You can see the Recorded Warning card here. The receipt of three of more Recorded Warnings in a 24-month/2-year period will result in a two-month suspension.

Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach Z (pictured here at Carolina International). Photo by Sally Spickard.

U.S.-based Australian rider Ema Klugman was given a Yellow Card with Bronte Beach for Abuse of Horse – Continued pressing of a Tired horse. Ema posted on social media on Sunday morning after cross country that her mare had sustained a heel grab that would result in her withdrawal from competition. Ema had not replied to a request for comment at the time of publication.

Cases of Abuse of Horse systematically carry a sanction of an FEI Yellow Card, including cases of excessive use of whip and/or pressing of a tired horse. An athlete who receives one or more additional Yellow Card warnings from the FEI within one year of their first instance also results in a two-month suspension.

The breakdown of the application of a Yellow Card is worded as below:

164.3 Yellow Warning Card

(a) A Yellow Warning Card may be issued to a Person Responsible by the President of the Ground Jury, the Chief Steward or the Technical Delegate during the Period of Jurisdiction for the following offences: Abuse of Horse Incorrect Behaviour by the Person Responsible and/or Incorrect Behaviour by a member of their entourage. For the purpose of this article, the term “entourage” shall mean the Person Responsible’s parent, spouse or partner, family member, coach, trainer, groom, crew or other person directly connected with the Person Responsible and includes the owner(s) of the Person Responsible’s Horse. Non-compliance with applicable Sport Rules Non-compliance with Protective Headgear Rules (b) The Yellow Warning Card may be delivered either by hand or by any other suitable means. If after reasonable efforts the Person Responsible cannot be notified during the Period of Jurisdiction that the Person Responsible has received a Yellow Warning Card, the Person Responsible must be notified in writing within fourteen (14) days of the Event. (c) A Yellow Warning Card may be issued in addition to any other Sanction(s) that may be issued in accordance with these GRs and/or the relevant Sport Rules. (d) If the same Person Responsible receives one (1) or more Yellow Warning Card(s) at the same or any other International Event within one year of the delivery of the first Yellow Warning Card, the Person Responsible shall be automatically suspended for a period of two (2) months after official notification from, or on behalf of, the FEI Secretary General.

Yellow Warning Card will be systematically awarded for the following offence: a) All cases of excessive use of whip, as defined above, or by stronger sanction(s) (as provided for under Art.526.2). b) Any other cases of Abuse of Horse c) Excessive pressing of a tired horse d) Riding an Exhausted horse coupled in addition to Disqualification.

The Yellow Card can be viewed here for additional information on how it is applied and what its consequences are. You can also view the full FEI Rules for Eventing here. To view the current list of FEI sanctions for eventing, click here.

To view more of EN’s coverage of Defender Kentucky, click here. 

 

Can Ros Canter and Izilot DHI Capture the Castle at Belsay’s First CCI4*-S?

By on Apr 29, 2025 9:30 am -

Photo by Athalens.

Belsay Horse Trials has received more than 100 entries from 12 different nations for its  first-ever CCI4*-S (May 16-18 ).

This bumper entry for Belsay (1) includes a pair of CCI5* winners: Olympic gold medallist and former world champion Ros Canter brings her 2023 Pau CCI5* hero Izilot DHI, while Caroline Harris will ride D Day, on whom she won the French CCI5* last October. Other famous names include Britain’s Piggy March and Bubby Upton, the all-conquering New Zealand husband and wife duo Tim and Jonelle Price, Irish Olympian Aoife Clark, Italian Olympic rider Giovanni Ugolotti, China’s Alex Hua Tian, up-and-coming USA star Cosby Green and leading Scottish eventer Wills Oakden.

This is the first of two international fixtures at the popular Northumbrian venue in May, and is acting as a replacement for the lost event at Chatsworth. It is the first time that Belsay will host a class at FEI CCI4*-S level, which will take place alongside a CCI2*-S, and national advanced and novice classes. The event is being sponsored by leading London law firm Forsters LLP and wealth management company RBC Brewin Dolphin.

The Chaser Communications-sponsored advanced class will also be compulsory viewing for star-spotters; among the entries are Irish CCI5* winner Austin O’Connor, New Zealand Olympian Clark Johnstone and young British team hopefuls Emily King and Tom Jackson.

While Belsay (1) has attracted top partnerships from all over Britain – and further afield – there are also a host of local riders hoping to make an impact in this beautiful setting, which features the historic Belsay Castle as a backdrop. Northumberland’s Jack Mantel and Katie Magee will be fresh from making their Badminton CCI5* debuts, while others to watch include Emma Carmichael, Laura Fenwick, Harry Mutch and Will Murray.

One face familiar to anyone who has followed eventing in the past half-century will be that of Ian Stark – former European champion, winner of many world, Olympic and European medals for Britain and, appropriately, the recently-retired course-designer of tracks such as Chatsworth and the Maryland CCI5* in the USA. Ian, now 71, will ride seven-year-old CCS Dance Monkey, whom he owns in partnership with Chatsworth’s owner the Duchess of Devonshire, in the novice class sponsored by Falcons Events.

Belsay organiser Laura de Wesselow said: “I’m thrilled with the entries for Belsay’s inaugural CCI4* and advanced competition; we can’t wait to see brilliant horses and riders from a total of 14 nations compete here for three days of great sport. The new cross-country courses and the new event layout are looking superb, thanks to a lot of hard work from our team, and we have all the ingredients for a wonderful event.”

Belsay’s well-established fixture featuring international classes from CCI1*-CCI3* and the Pony and Junior National Championships will take place in its usual place in the calendar from May 28 – June 1.

Belsay (1) will occupy a largely different part of the Belsay estate, with fresh cross-country courses designed by Adrian Ditcham, to Belsay (2), in order to give competitors the best possible ground conditions and exciting, varied tracks that will both challenge and reward horses and riders.

Tickets are on sale for both Belsay (1) and (2). The “Belsay Bundle” ticket offering gives you discounted tickets for both events, ensuring that you can enjoy maximum eventing action for a cheaper price, whether you are just coming for a day or wanting to enjoy the full camping experience over both weekends. For example, a one-day adult “Bundle” ticket for Friday, Saturday or Sunday of both events costs just £20, with a saving of £10.

Visit www.belsayhorsetrials.co.uk for more information and to buy tickets.

All the cross country at Belsay (1) and Belsay (2) will be shown on Horse & Country TV’s live streaming platform, H&C+

 

Tuesday News & Notes from Kentucky Performance Products

By on Apr 29, 2025 12:12 am -

Sinead Maynard and Manoir de Carneville. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

This time next week, the next episode of The Go Eventing Podcast will drop, and it’s a special one! Our next co-host is the one and only Sinead Maynard, a 5* rider, USEF selector, and pro commentator (among MANY other things) who has had a many experiences within our sport that we just cannot wait to pick her brain about. We’re gearing up for what promises to be a great conversation about media and commentary in our sport, a walk down memory lane to revisit some of Sinead’s best memories, and of course a recap of Kentucky and a look ahead to Badminton next week. If you have a burning question for Sinead, you can send it to us here!

In the meantime, we also now move into our next 5* event, which is happening in Australia this weekend at the Adelaide Equestrian Festival. We can’t wait to partner with Atalya Boytner, who will be bringing us some photos, videos, and words from her first visit to the Southern Hemisphere. Stay tuned for more coming your way soon here on EN!

U.S. Events Opening Today

Golden Spike H.T. (UT); Aspen Farm H.T. (WA); Shepherd Ranch Pony Club H.T. I (CA); Silverwood Farm Spring H.T. (WI); Horse Park of New Jersey H.T. I (NJ); Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T. (MD); Full Gallop Farm June H.T. (SC)

U.S. Events Closing Today

Spokane Sport Horse Spring H.T. (WA); Otter Creek H.T. (WI); Hunt Club Farms H.T. (VA); Bouckaert Equestrian H.T. (GA); Fair Hill International Recognized H.T. (MD); Spring Gulch H.T. (CO)

News & Reading

The U.S. Center for SafeSport has fired CEO Ju’Riese Colón in the wake of an investigation by U.S. Sen Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) into the organization’s hiring of an investigator who subsequently was charged with rape. Nancy Jaffer reports more here.

It’s USEA Intercollegiate Championships week! This event has grown in scope and attendance year over year, and as we look ahead to competition at Stable View (Aiken, SC), it’s time to meet the teams that will be vying for the top honors. Read more about them here.

Most equestrian fans by now know the name Fiona Howard, the Paralympic medalist who achieved great (and historic) success in Paris last summer. Now, you can get to know Fiona’s special partner, Diamond Dunes, in the latest edition of Behind the Stall Door over on The Chronicle of the Horse. Read it here.

If you’re eyeing a move up to a level that requires counter canter in your dressage test, it’s time to start practicing now! And even if you aren’t, introducing counter canter is a great way to develop balance and responsiveness with your horse. Gather some tips on using the counter canter loop to educate your horse on the concept here.

Sponsor Corner: Kentucky Performance Products

Allergies in horses can present in many ways — from hives and itching to coughing, nasal drainage, and head shaking. Common allergens include insect bites, grass and tree pollen, dust and molds, and even chemicals around the barn. Managing a horse’s environment is key: improving ventilation, choosing low-dust bedding, and limiting exposure to irritants can significantly reduce respiratory and skin reactions. Nutrition also plays an important role. Omega-3 fatty acids, like those found in Contribute™ from Kentucky Performance Products, have been shown to reduce skin inflammation and support a healthier immune response. Feeding omega-3s daily can be an effective addition to your allergy management plan. Learn more about keeping your horse comfortable at kppusa.com.

Video Break

Take us back to Kentucky!

Weekend Winners: Kentucky, Loudoun, & Horse Park of New Jersey

By on Apr 28, 2025 11:56 am -

We’ve certainly enjoyed the action in Kentucky this past weekend! If you want to relive any of your favorite moments, take a look over at our coverage to soak up the Kentucky memories as we get going this Monday.

We also saw events running at Loudoun and the Horse Park of New Jersey, and we’re celebrating all of our Weekend Winners, with an extra special shout out to the winner of our Unofficial Low Score Award, Fylicia Barr and Balou du Nord d’Eleganza, who scored an impressive 17.8 in the Open Beginner Novice division at New Jersey! Congrats to all on successful weekends!

Defender Kentucky (KY): [Website][Results]

CCI 5*-L: Michael Jung and FischerChipmunk FRH (25.0)
CCI 4*-S: William Coleman and Off the Record (33.0)

Loudoun Hunt Pony Club Spring H.T. (VA): [Website][Results]

Intermediate Open: Christina Henriksen and Cisco’s Calor Z (51.6)
Preliminary Open A: Meghan O’Donoghue and Global Eros (30.6)
Preliminary Open B: Jillian Newman and Curraghgraigue freeman (35.7)
Training Horse: Martin Douzant and Galactic Frame Z (28.3)
Training Junior: Madeline Riley and Bobbie Burns (28.7)
Training Open A: Kelty O’Donoghue and Barb the Boss (31.1)
Training Open B: Kaitlin Clasing and TGS Lions Sunshine (30.3)
Training Rider A: Jessica Sappenfield and Westwood (36.4)
Training Rider B: Emma Tuit and Call Me Joe (28.6)
Novice Horse: Daniel Clasing and Guido (26.1)
Novice Junior: Berkley Gardner and Maberlinus M (27.5)
Novice Open A: Katherine Nolan and As Planned (26.9)
Novice Open B: Taylor Berlin and Anuk (26.9)
Novice Rider A: Emilia Sweeny and Fernhill Jack Sparrow (27.8)
Novice Rider B: Elena Labrador and Zen Zara (32.7)
Beginner Novice Horse: Kendyl Tracy and Diabolo (29.2)
Beginner Novice Junior: Claire Kassar and Chaplin (27.9)
Beginner Novice Open: Gillian Smith and Sparkleberry Lane (31.2)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Lynn Berry and Rappahannock (30.6)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Jill Widdifield and Zurich (30.5)

Horse Park of New Jersey Spring H.T. (NJ): [Website][Results]

Open Preliminary: Ryan Wood and Bellines Quality Lady (24.0)
Open Modified A: Amanda Beale Clement and B.E. Cointreau (28.5)
Open Modified B: Charlotte Carrajat and As Is (32.8)
Open Training: Holly Payne Caravella and Princess Candy (37.3)
Training Rider: Elisabeth Tansey and Night Moves (29.3)
Novice Rider: Samantha Marcoux and Seeing Is Believing (29.7)
Open Novice: Kelly Beaver and Excel Star Zenith (25.8)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Beth Durden and Celebrity (26.9)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Liana Theroux and Our Golden Chance (24.5)
Open Beginner Novice: Fylicia Barr and Balou du Nord d’Eleganza (17.8)
Starter: Brielle Rainsberg and Riley (26.3)

Monday News & Notes from FutureTrack

By on Apr 28, 2025 1:29 am -

I know, I know. That is not the first face you were expecting to see this Monday morning. But quite frankly, Michael Jung is getting plenty of coverage at the moment (and deservedly so, I might add). But I can’t let Ros Canter’s latest achievement slip by unnoticed.

No, she did not win a 5*. In fact, the medal that she collected this weekend has nothing to do with horses. Instead, the medal around her neck is a result of running the London Marathon, raising funds for Spinal Research along the way.

Riding round Badminton will be a walk (gallop) in the park in comparison to running 26.2 miles around London. Congratulations Ros! If you would like to donate to Spinal Research, Ros’ Just Giving page is still open – an extremely worthwhile cause, I am sure you will all agree.

U.S. Weekend Results

Defender Kentucky (KY): [Website] [Results]

Loudoun Hunt Pony Club Spring H.T. (VA): [Website][Results]

Horse Park of New Jersey Spring H.T. (NJ): [Website] [Results]

Major International Results

Ballindensik International Horse Trials: [Website] [Results]

News & Reading

Everywhere you turn these days there is some expert or another telling you about the need for top quality sleep. But it turns out that horses can get by with a lot less sleep. Read more about their sleep requirements here. Spoiler – they’re not quite so high maintenance as us – no sleep mask necessary.

Her first 5* might not have ended quite as planned, but I suspect that this won’t be the last we see of Lucienne Bellissimo at this level. She has fought her way back on more than one occasion, and carved a riding career through some seriously savvy business decisions. She spoke to Sinead Halpin Maynard about the struggles that she has faced to make it to the top – and how she continues to make it work.

From one comeback story to another This time, the spotlight is on “miracle pony” Red Kite who fought his way back from a mystery illness to win his local Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) Open ridden Exmoor, Dartmoor and Shetland qualifier. Not bad for a pony who vets had said would never be ridden again.

British Grassroots Riders, there’s an exciting new event to aim for! Bede Events, in collaboration with Agria UK, have just announced the new Agria Amateur 105 three-day event, which will run at Aspen Cooling Osberton International (2), 1st – 5th October.

Video Break

Of course he had to feature somewhere on your Monday News Bulletin. So here he is, the man of the moment, Mr Michael Jung, talking about his favourite horse and his favourite venue (the latter is pure speculation, but it certainly should be after this weekend…)