Classic Eventing Nation

Military Boekelo CCIO4*-L Field of 93 Moves Forward to Dressage Start on Thursday

Tom McEwen looks to continue his hot streak, trotting up this week at Boekelo with Isa.

While we are sadly not covering Boekelo full-tilt as we ordinarily would this year (budgets, they’re a real pain), we’ll nonetheless be keeping you as up-to-date as possible on this absolutely bursting CCIO4*-L field. Some riders are competing for the honors of winning the FEI Eventing Nations Cup Final, while others are looking to confirm their horses as future championship and/or five-star contenders with a strong weekend here in the Netherlands.

Boekelo wouldn’t be the most dimensionally imposing course there is, but the packed-tight atmosphere with spectators in the five figures and beer tents strewn about essentially right on the galloping ropes means it’s a unique environment that often provides a real confirmation of a horse’s coping ability for the future. While it does look like we might avoid cross country day sog, it will be raining in the early going of competition as an additional layer of enjoyment.

For the USA, a team of four + one additional horse for Allie Knowles comes forward to contest this Nations Cup Final. It’s primarily a team of developing horses and next-gen riders, with experience like that of Lauren Nicholson’s anchoring the team. Lauren rides Ms. Jacqueline Mars’ Landmark’s Jungle Gold, and is joined on the team by Allie with two of her exciting younger horses, Montpelier Scais (on the team) and LS Crown Royal as an individual. Jack Curtis and Luska Candy Clover are tackling their first 4*-L together this week as a part of team USA (but they’ve got a good amount of experience at this early stage of their career, having also competed at the inaugural FEI Eventing World Championships for U25 Riders in Ireland this summer), and Hallie Coon steps forward with Sirius SB, whom she’s taken the rider on for fellow American Katherine Coleman.

Coming into the week, it’s Burghley champion Gemma Stevens who’s been tapped as the highest chance to win with Cooley Park Muze, and for good reason with multiple four-star wins and a top-five finish in his first 4*-L at Royal Jump in May. EquiRatings gives this pair a 22% win chance and a 61% of a top 10 finish. You can get the full sense of field, on paper at least, here.

Today’s First Horse Inspection wasn’t without its tension: it wasn’t to be Irish young rider Tom Nestor’s weekend, with his ride Cooley Diamond Dancer sadly not accepted on re-presentation after being sent to the hold box. The Ground Jury this week is presided over by New Zealand’s Andrew Bennie, joined by Angela Tucker (GBR) and Polly Ann Huntington (AUS). Also not coming forward for the jog was French rider Lisa Gualtieri with A D’Aunis.

Dressage commences on Thursday at 9:00 am in the Netherlands, which is six hours ahead of EST. To find the start time in your local time zone, reference the widget below. Starting orders for both Thursday and Friday, as well as live scoring, can be found here. All of the live action can be found on ClipMyHorse.TV here.

Time converter at worldtimebuddy.com

Military Boekelo / FEI Eventing Nations Cup CCIO4*-NC-L (Netherlands): [Website] [Entries/Timing/Scores] [Live Stream]

Wednesday News & Notes: Last Chance for $78 Kentucky Ticket Deals, FDA Warning Issued & More News

Photo via Equestrian Events Inc.

Today is your final day to take advantage of the best pricing on Kentucky Three-Day Event tickets for 2027. Next April, Kentucky will celebrate its 50th anniversary, and the Spirit of ’78 Sale is intended to help you start the celebration early.

As a part of this sale — which ends today — you can purchase two Saturday (cross country day) General Admission tickets, a two-day admission package for Saturday and Sunday, a four-pack of upper-level seats for show jumping and more for $78 (per deal, plus applicable taxes/fees)! This means some serious savings for you and one less thing to panic about at the last minute. You only have a few hours left, so be sure to check out the ticket site here to secure your deal. Additional tickets as well as Hospitality options can be found here.


Major International Events This Weekend

Military Boekelo / FEI Eventing Nations Cup CCIO4*-NC-L (Netherlands): [Website] [Entries/Timing/Scores] [Live Stream]

U.S. Events This Weekend

The Maryland Horse Trials & Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm (MD): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [Volunteer]

Woodside Fall International (CA): [Website] [Entries/Times/Scores] [Volunteer]

Apple Knoll Farm H.T. (MS): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Volunteer]

WindRidge Farm Fall H.T. (NC): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scores] [Volunteer]

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

Pine Hill Fall H.T. (TX): [Website] [Entries/Times/Scores] [Volunteer]

Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Times/Scores]



In the News

  • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued warning letters to Neogen Corporation and Sciarra Aeromed Inc. following an investigation into a veterinary wound care product linked to serious infections and at least 20 horse deaths. The product, Neogen Vet HYCOAT (hyaluronate sodium sterile solution), was labeled as sterile. According to the FDA, the 20 reported deaths represent the largest number of horse deaths associated with a quality defect in an FDA-regulated veterinary medical product. The agency also said it is the highest number of deaths in any animal species linked to microbiological contamination of an FDA-regulated product labeled as sterile. The Chronicle of the Horse‘s full report here.
  • Nineteen former members of UC Davis’s recently-eliminated female equestrian team filed a sex discrimination class action against the school this week, alleging discrimination against all its female student-athletes by depriving them of equal athletic financial aid in violation of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. The lawsuit seeks to make UC Davis pay close to $1,400,000 to its female athletes for depriving them of athletic financial aid and paying it to the male athletes instead in 2023-24 and 2024-25. The Sacramento Bee reports more here.
  • 26 six- and seven-year-old horses will contest the USEA/USEF Developing Horse National Championships at Morven Park next week, and several of those are graduates of the USEA’s Young Event Horse program. Meet them.
  • Don’t forget to set your Eventing Manager team for Boekelo before it’s too late! Need help? Visit the EquiRatings Prediction Center, or use the data provided on the Eventing Manager interface to inform your decisions.
  • Proposed USEF rule changes are now available for viewing and public comment. US Equestrian will also host a Virtual Listening Session for members to voice their opinions on these rule changes on October 5. You can register for that session here.

Recommended Reading & Listening


Coaching Corner


Go Eventing Moment of the Day

Tune in for yesterday’s arrivals at beautiful Boekelo:

Tuesday News & Notes from Kentucky Performance Products: Concussion Research, A Refreshed Nations Cup Finale Awaits, A Racetrack Reject to Olympic Legend Story & More

One Big Thing: Concussion Research Suggests a Potential Flag for Equestrians

Photo by Haley Boothe / Impulsion Media.

University of Miami researchers say the standard concussion tests could be comparing riders to the wrong baseline. In a study highlighted by US Equestrian this week, the university’s Acquired Neurosensory Disorder Research and Treatment Laboratory has so far tested 30 equestrians, and the results suggest riders’ eye-tracking and depth-perception skills are well above average for their age group. That means a concussed rider can fall significantly below their own normal and still score within the general population’s range, which is enough to be cleared to ride.

The lab, which has previously worked with the Department of Defense and the NFL, is building the first equestrian-specific normative values for concussion diagnosis. Each participant completes two symptom questionnaires (the SCAT6 and CISS), a neuro-optometry battery of 10 to 12 tests, and an eye-tracking exam using VR-style goggles. Researchers plan to test more riders at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington this winter and hope the data will eventually give US Equestrian and the FEI a better way to decide when a rider is safe to return after a fall.

What it means for eventers: Eventing may be where the gap is largest. Researchers expect baselines to vary by discipline, and co-director Dr. Erin Williams singled out upper-level cross country as the kind of riding that demands especially strong oculomotor function. Judging distances at a gallop over uneven ground takes more of it than a dressage ride does. In practice, an eventer’s “normal” may sit even further above the general population’s than other riders’ does, so a concussion is easier to miss on a standard sideline test.

The case that started the research shows the stakes: Canadian show jumper Will Martin was cleared after a fall and then crashed again when a fence in front of him appeared to move, which left him unable to ride.


U.S. Events Opening Entries Today

The Event at TerraNova (FL); Ram Tap H.T. & Classic Three-Day (CA); Full Moon Farm Fall H.T. (MD)

U.S. Events Closing Entries Today

Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event (KY); Maryland 3 Star at Fair Hill (MD); Ram Tap National H.T. (CA); Sol Events at Willow Draw (TX); Horse Park of New Jersey Fall H.T. (NJ)



In the News

  • If you’re interested in getting involved with the USEA Young Event Horse program and you’re within range of Fair Hill (Maryland), save the date for October 17 and a YEH Educational Seminar led by the one and only Peter Gray. Info here.
  • The British named an all-star crew on a next generation of top horses for this weekend’s FEI Eventing Nations Cup finale at Boekelo. See who made the cut. The Nations Cup underwent a format overhaul this year, making the Final — held as a Long format — much more influential. Now, this year there are no Olympic qualifications on offer (that comes in 2027), but this year provides a great opportunity for a team to earn some bragging rights and a best foot forward for the road to the 2028 Games. 10 teams have qualified, including the USA, and they’ll all start from 0 points when Boekelo kicks off on Thursday. See more Nations Cup rules and standings.
  • Show jumping has expanded for this edition of the Asian Games, held in Tokyo. Read more.
  • Ariat is opening a store at the Mall of America — the site of Minnesota’s largest tourist attraction.

Recommended Reading & Listening


Sponsor Corner: Four Ingredients for Healthy Joints from Kentucky Performance Products

Photo by Haley Boothe / Impulsion Media.

Galloping, jumping, and months of fitness work all put steady demands on an event horse’s joints. Knowing what keeps a joint working well makes it easier to support one.

In a healthy joint, the ends of the bones are covered with a thin layer of articular cartilage that reduces friction. Synovial fluid is the thick liquid inside the joint. It feeds that cartilage, and it also lubricates and cushions the bones where they meet. Four ingredients support that system:

  • Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a key part of both synovial fluid and cartilage and keeps joint surfaces lubricated. Glucosamine and chondroitin mostly work on the cartilage, while HA does most of its work in the joint fluid.
  • Glucosamine provides the building blocks for parts of the cartilage matrix.
  • Chondroitin sulfate helps control the enzymes linked to inflammation and tissue breakdown. Research shows glucosamine and chondroitin work best as a pair. When studied separately, neither showed the same benefit.
  • Manganese is a component of the cartilage matrix and is essential for growing healthy connective tissue.

Joint Armor™ puts all four in one scoop

Kentucky Performance Products’ Joint Armor™ is a scientifically formulated blend of hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine, and manganese sulfate. It helps maintain cartilage structure and healthy joint function.

Who can benefit?
Joint Armor is recommended for:

  • Young horses, especially those starting training
  • Performance and show horses
  • Racehorses and recreational horses
  • Broodmares and stallions
  • Senior horses
  • Horses with a history of joint injury or arthritis

Learn more about Joint Armor at kppusa.com/product/joint-armor, or download KPP’s printable joint-health infographic here.

Supplements are intended to maintain healthy systems and are not intended to treat or cure illness or injury. Always consult your veterinarian when health issues arise.


Coaching Corner


Go Eventing Moment of the Day

Who jumped it best?

Weekend Winners: Stable View, Spokane, Sundance, Jump Start, Tomora, Old Tavern, ESDCTA & Course Brook

This weekend was packed with action! A few FEI events, Championships, and a strong showing of Eventers throughout, we had loads to celebrate! We did have a few events have to cancel due to extreme weather, but want to give a shout out to all of the event organizers and those involved who work tirelessly to provide opportunities! Thank you to the ESDCTA and Course Brook Farm teams for all that you do, despite weather changing plans.

Congrats to all of our Weekend Winners, with a shout out to the winner of our Unofficial Low Score Award: Lyndsay Peterson and Remington Recall, who scored a 20.6 in the Beginner Novice Rider division at Stable View!

Stable View Oktoberfest CCI4*-S (SC): [Website][Scoring]

CCI 4*S: Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic (39.9)
CCI 3*S: Karl Slezak and HSH Marshall (30.7)
CCI 2*S: Alyssa Phillips and Nadal (26.3)
CCI 1*S: Candace Elizabeth Bell and Oscar (29.5)
Advanced: Devin Robel and Gillou (47.5)
Open Intermediate: Christina Henriksen and Cisco’s Calor Z (38.1)
Open Preliminary: Riley Zgrebnak and Cooley Roan Star (29.7)
Preliminary Rider: Kaitlyn Cobey and Redfield Need For Speed (23.7)
Modified Rider: Emerson Hover and Amore (30.8)
Open Modified: Lauren New and Mister Chin (32.3)
Open Training: Lauren Lambert and FE JOKER IS COMING (25.3)
Training Rider: Emily Wright and Duck (30.8)
Novice Rider A: Chloe-Renee Hetman and FGF Straight Time (31.5)
Novice Rider B: Abby Buenting and Calvin (27.5)
Open Novice A: Sarah Berry Rajoy and Quantum ETC (24.2)
Open Novice B: Sarah Kuhn and B.E. Finish Strong (28.0)
Beginner Novice Rider: Lyndsay Peterson and Remington Recall (20.6)
Open Beginner Novice: Courtney Lucas and Formidable (25.3)

Spokane Sport Horse 12th Annual Fall H.T. (WA): [Website][Scoring]

CCI 3*S: Renee Kalkman and Flame Eternal (45.3)
CCI 2*S: Jennifer Wooten – Macouzet and Bossinova (32.3)
CCI 1*S: Jennifer Plassmeier and Damanio L (46.8)
Open Intermediate: Sophia Click and Tarantino 54 (55.5)
Open Preliminary: Cindy Marvin and Agatha Christeigh (39.0)
Open Modified: Jen Moody and Million Star (27.0)
Training Three Day: Angela Wilson and MNF North Forks Summit (56.0)
Junior Training: Gage Schaefer and Grazie Daisy (32.9)
Training Amateur: Hailey Patno and Quality On Trend (27.1)
Open Training: Sarah Sullivan and SF Cinematic (27.1)
Novice Three Day: Tammy Karplus and Verified AF (53.9)
Junior Novice: Hailey Huarte and Her Copilot (25.9)
Novice Amateur: Jodie Corless and Frogadt (29.7)
Open Novice: Patience O’Neal and Barney Come Home (26.5)
Beginner Novice Three Day: Kathryn Pope and Vicariousleigh (40.6)
Junior Beginner Novice: Chloe Dunsmoor and Fine Magic Talon (30.3)
Beginner Novice Amateur A: Suzy Ralls and Fernhill Fortune (28.8)
Beginner Novice Amateur B: Caroline Smith and Northern Vigor (29.6)
Open Beginner Novice: Avery Jacob and Trinket Box Snapdragon (26.6)
Starter Rider: Elena McRae and RockOTaco (40.6)
Open Starter: Hilary Mourton and Falconwood’s Ice N Easy (31.5)
Young Event Horse Five Year Old: Erin Grandia and Lexi CF (83.6)
Young Event Horse Four Year Old: Jordan Linstedt and LS Caspian (85.9)

Sundance Farm H.T. (WI): [Website][Scoring]

Open Preliminary: Rayna Williams and Storm Surge (35.7)
Open Modified: Jessica Saari and Sir NoNo (26.6)
Open Training: Charles Campbell and Fighting Fellow (26.5)
Novice Rider: Riley Mueller and Gemily (30.0)
Open Novice: Kristine Burgess and Lagans Teddy Bear (30.6)
BNovice Rider-Jr: Amelia Meudt and Aspen (35.9)
BNovice Rider-Sr: Dawn Swingen and Beau’s My Daddy (27.8)
Open BNovice: Ashley Butteris and Feeding Frenzy (27.2)
Jr Open Starter: Luella Iseppi and Salty Ruler (33.1)
Sr Master Open Starter: Patricia Bourdon and Coconut (32.5)
Sr Open Starter: Lauren Miller and Central Parking (30.0)
INTRO – Open: Natalie Heinz and Mr Pickles (33.1)

Jump Start H.T. (KY): [Website][Scoring]

Open Intermediate/Preliminary: Madison Temkin and Fernhill Cool Confection (36.3)
Area 8 Championships Preliminary: Audri Hoos and Colonial Cross (32.3)
Open Preliminary A: Jessena Defler and Quality on Tap (34.3)
Open Preliminary B: Alexandra Knowles and P.S. I Love You (29.6)
Area 8 Championships Modified: Kyra Steinrock and Ccs Dance Monkey (31.6)
Open Modified A: Alexandra Curtiss and Spate (30.7)
Open Modified B: Olivia Pratt and Chin Tonic 3 (28.4)
Area 8 Championships Training: Zoë Rizzuto and The Wellerman (30.3)
Open Training: Woods Baughman and Liatendro (25.9)
Training Horse: Lola Lonesky and Cansiro (24.1)
Training Rider A: Stacy Westmoreland and Tinetto (30.5)
Training Rider B: Natasha Quirk and Fernhill My Time (33.8)
Area 8 Championships Novice: Elizabeth Zuelke and Fernhill Simba (28.8)
Novice Horse: Addison Neumeyer and Cappakeel Billy (25.5)
Novice Rider A: Haley Brockman and Alverta (33.8)
Novice Rider B: Brynn Keil and Gloria Grau (30.3)
Novice Rider Junior: Grace Barger and Dowdstown Tarina (30.6)
Open Novice A: McKena Nolan and NDS Marley (28.5)
Open Novice B: Erin Strader and MBF Qatara (26.5)
Area 8 Championships Beginner Novice: Lara Markel and Sk8er Boi (22.8)
Beginner Novice Horse: Nikki Burns and Uno Mas Bourbon (30.0)
Beginner Novice Horse: Alicia Tymec and Savvy (30.0)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Alexis Forster and LNJ Sterling (27.8)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Allison Cote and Qastillano PF (29.1)
Beginner Novice Rider Junior: Elizabeth Enderle and Bridge View (30.9)
Open Beginner Novice: Addison Neumeyer and Plain Brown Coat (28.4)
Area 8 Championships Starter: Alayna Lalka and Lady Loki (23.1)
Open Starter A: Emily Schwoeppe and List Maker (29.5)
Open Starter B: Lori Miller and Acceleritas (33.4)
Open Starter C: Chelsea Hackbarth and Midlife Crisis (27.5)
Open Starter Junior: Peyton Bizjak and N’Pressive (27.5)

Tomora H.T. (CO): [Website][Scoring]

Modified/Training: Rochelle Costanza and High Hopes Viking (33.2)
Training-Novice: Alexandrea Galligan and RDE Cavalier Emperor (43.5)
Beginner Novice J: Raven Rockwell and Fernhill Coastal Cowboy (27.4)
Open Beginner Novice A: Emmy Williams and Fortunate Rebel (25.0)
Open Beginner Novice B: Kristina Lee and Duncan Z (25.3)
Introductory: Cece McElwee and Guns Lopez (26.9)
Novice J: Bricelyn Koldenhoven and Millfield Billy (28.1)
Open Novice: Daina Kaugars and Finding Fernhill (26.8)
Open Training: Anna Cummings and Fernhill Colano (32.3)
Starter A: Robyn Ritsch and Taylamor Penelope (29.1)
Starter B: Madeline Backus and Lancome (25.3)
Starter – Junior: Sloane Smith and Cornichon (32.3)

Old Tavern H.T. (VA): [Website][Scoring]

Open Preliminary Test A: Kaitlin Clasing and Pamorkus BSW (31.6)
Preliminary Rider Test A: Alexandra Wikstrom and Viking Navigator (38.6)
Open Modified Test A: Sydney Hagaman and Syrakus Sohn A (33.5)
Modified Rider Test A: Catherine Ramsey and Cakewalk (32.9)
Training Rider 1 Test A: Michaela Yowaiski and Tego (35.3)
Open Training Test A: Molly Duncan and Peaky Blinders (30.8)
Training Rider 2 Test A: Nicola Villarino and What the Devil (35.7)
Training Horse Test A: Lexi Scovil and United Front (31.8)
Novice Horse Test A: Arden Wildasin and Le Duc (28.1)
Open Novice Test A: William Coleman and Oscar (27.2)
Novice Rider Senior Test A: Alice Fout and Cocolares (30.6)
Novice Rider Test A: Gretel Frew and Union Commander (37.1)
Beginner Novice Rider Test A: Blair Jackson and Twenty Hawks (33.8)
Beginner Novice Horse Test A: Christina McKitrick and Grecian Pharoah (27.5)
Open Beginner Novice Test A: Natalie Wales and Baseline Beater (34.1)
Beginner Novice Rider Senior Test A: Ashleigh Weisskopf and Knox (31.5)
Starter Rider Test A: Alice Johnson and Cooley Tiniest Dragon (29.1)
Open Starter Test A: Bella Palm and Somelikeitfried (37.1)
Pre-Starter Test A: Charlotte Kotzur and Korbin (38.8)

ESDCTA New Jersey H.T. (NJ): [Website][Scoring]

*Sunday divisions cancelled due to weather*

Novice Rider A: Sara O’Hare and Paddy the Caddy (30.0)
Novice Rider B: Rocco Blaine Henderson and Lenny Kravitz (29.3)
Open Novice A: Erin Kanara and Unique Olivienne (27.1)
Open Novice B: Lillian Heard Wood and Cooley Echo (22.9)
Open Training A: Leeci Rowsell and Fortino (30.9)
Open Training B: Erin Kanara and Fame (30.0)
Starter: Laura Coleman and Finishing a Dream (100.4)
Training Rider: Ruth Dunahoo and Coney Street (37.7)

Course Brook Farm Fall H.T. (MS): [Website][Scoring]

*Cancelled due to weather*

French Win on Home Turf in Lignières, 10 nations Secure Ticket to Boekelo

Team France take the win for the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™: Stephane Landois and Hermes Du Gevaudan, Thomas Carlile and Golden De Beliard AA, Karim Florent Laghouag and Dream De Vieve, Benjamin Massie and Figaro Fonroy. Photo: FEI/Libby Law Photography

The final qualifying leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup in Lignières (FRA) saw France repeat their home win for a second year, finishing on a score of 106.70 penalties. Second place was claimed by Great Britain on 170.40, and third place went to Italy with 194.40 to secure their place in the FEI Eventing Nations Cup Final at Boekelo (NED) between October 1 and 4.

The experienced French team of Benjamin Massie with Figaro Fonroy, Karim Florent Laghouag and Dream de Vieve, Stephane Landois riding Hermes du Gevaudan and Thomas Carlile on board Golden de Beliard AA, topped the podium once more with an emphatic win under the sunshine in Lignières, to the joy of the local crowds.

“We are very happy with the French team this weekend. They were first after dressage which is a good start, cross country was nice and show jumping allowed us to keep the lead, so we are really pleased with the result,” Chef d’Equipe Jean Luc Force said of the team.

Individual winners and team members Karim Florent Laghouag and Dream of Life. Photo: FEI/Libby Law Photography

Having contested four of the five FEI Eventing Nations Cup legs this season, more than any other nation, and winning two – here in Lignières, and leg three in Strzegom (POL) earlier in June – France lead the 2026 standings and go into Boekelo as the favourites on paper. However, with the 2026 format shakeup, all team points set to zero, and so the final prize is all to play for.

The British team achieved second place with a team of Nations Cup debutants, Lizzie Baugh riding Piltown Concorde, Kate Rowe and Hableur, Andrew Downes with Cooley Foxtrot and Tristram Owers on GRS Carina. Making this Great Britain’s 59th podium finish at the FEI Eventing Nations Cup, second only to Germany (61) in the all-time podium finish rankings.

“We had some inexperience in our team, and we were very happy to finish on the podium behind a very strong France on our third visit to Lignières,” Chef d’Equipe Philip Surl said of the team’s result.

“The amount of work and effort that has gone into the preparation of the footing on the cross country by [course designer] Piere Le Goupil and his amazing team has been a lot of work and time, and is hugely appreciated by all the teams.”

Italy back on the podium

France, Great Britain and Italy feature on the Nations Cup podium. Photo: FEI/Libby Law Photography

In claiming their first podium place of the 2026 FEI Eventing Nations Cup, their first time since Avenches (SUI) in June 2024, the Italian team of Beatrice Maggi and Charlotte 238, Alessio Proia on board Gatto Salta D’o, Pietro Majolino riding Dubi Du and Matteo Arrighi with Clark Del Rilate, secured their nation’s ticket to Boekelo next week, finishing well inside the top 10 rankings for the season.

“I’m very happy with this result, I want to say thank you to our team and the organisation for this wonderful event, but the best part is that Italy have returned to the podium”, Team Trainer, Jacopo Comelli, said with a smile.

Rounding out the team competition was Norway in fourth, consisting of Yasmin Olsson Payne with Cos Me Will, Ellen Kristina Hynne on ML Dirty Harry and Heidi Bratlie Larsen riding SC Mr. Chrichton, and the Swiss team of Robin Godel on board Ilario des Tours, Patrick Rüegg with Tabaro and Camille Guyot riding Sunny For Game, in fifth. Both teams complete their competition claiming their nation a place at Boekelo, also.

The Boekelo stage is set

Joining this weekend’s teams down the dressage centre line at Boekelo on Thursday will be five other nations: Germany, Austria, Poland, Belgium and USA. The home nation, the Netherlands, clinched the tenth and the final spot from a three-way tie between them, New Zealand and Sweden, thanks to posting the lowest qualifying team score (Avenches, June 2026) of the three teams this season.

Now, the points reset to zero and ten nations will arrive in Boekelo in just a few days’ time with clean sheets and an abundance of enthusiasm ready to go head-to-head in the 2026 FEI Eventing Nations Cup Final, where only one team can emerge as victors.

FEI Eventing Nations Cup – Lignières (France): [Website] [Scoring] [FEI Eventing Nations Cup 2026] [Live Stream Replays – FEI YouTube] [Live Stream Replays – ClipMyHorse.TV]

Monday News & Notes from Equine Discounts: A USA Win in Ireland; A New Bill for International Equine Travel & More

Since moving from the U.S. to the UK to base with Australia’s Kevin McNab, Alexa Gartenberg has put her goal of putting the building blocks of future success into place into practice. She’s quietly racked up some strong results, and even when her Nations Cup team debut went unluckily sideways in 2024 at Boekelo, she didn’t allow it to define anything. This weekend in Ireland, Alexa earned a big achievement, taking the Goresbridge Horse Sales CCI4*-S title at Ballindenisk with the 13-year-old Cooley Kildaire.

Alexa and “Kili” have grown more and more consistent as their partnership — which begun in 2022 — solidified, and this win is the latest result of that cultivation.

Tom Continues the Tear: Meanwhile, Tom McEwen continued his winning ways at Ballindenisk, winning the NutriScience CCI4*-L (Class Romance), the TRM CCI3*-S (Maestro) and the CCI2*-L (GHS Diamanta). This makes seven four-star wins for Tom this season and, according to EquiRatings, since at least 2008 no rider has collected eight wins at the level in a single season (and we can see how that would be difficult, through the sheer issue of both horse numbers and event numbers). While he’s near certainly not chasing this record as a goal, if he were to achieve it even by accident he’s not got many chances left on the year. He’s got a definite entry at Boekelo this weekend with Isa, but just a couple of options, event-wise beyond that.

[See full Ballindenisk results]


Major International Event Results

FEI Eventing Nations Cup – Lignières (France): [Website] [Scoring] [FEI Eventing Nations Cup 2026] [Live Stream Replays – FEI YouTube] [Live Stream Replays – ClipMyHorse.TV]

Ballindenisk CCI4*-L (Ireland): [Website] [Scoring]

Eventing at the Parks and Canadian Eastern Eventing Championships (Ontario, Canada): [Website] [Scoring]

U.S. Weekend Preview

Stable View Oktoberfest CCI4*-S (SC): [Website] [Scoring] [Live Stream Replays – H&C+]

Spokane Sport Horse 12th Annual Fall H.T. (WA): [Website] [Scoring]

Sundance Farm H.T. (WI): [Website] [Entries/Timing/Scoring]

Jump Start H.T. (KY): [Website] [Scoring]

Tomora H.T. (CO): [Website] [Scoring]

Old Tavern H.T. (VA): [Website] [Scoring]

ESDCTA New Jersey H.T. (NJ): [Website] [Scoring]

Course Brook Farm Fall H.T. (MS): [Website] [Scoring]



In the News

  • #ICYMI, Bouckaert Farm in Georgia announced the addition of dedicated U25 FEI divisions at its upcoming October event as well as its three 2027 offerings. Venue owner and Belgian Olympian Carl Bouckaert said it’s a step near and dear to his heart, providing next gen riders the chance to measure up against others of the same generation.
  • The American Horse Council has expressed support for the recent introduction of H.R. 10611, the Temporary International Movement of Equines (TIME) Act. The bill, which would bring international equine transport regulations in the U.S. into alignment with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) — presumably making it easier for horse to move into the U.S. for competitions, etc. — now enters into the next steps of legislation.

Recommended Reading & Listening

  • “Soak time.”: An appropriate name for taking the time that it takes for information to absorb when working with horses. Read more.
  • “How to ride better for your horse”: Missives from Carl Hester’s Masterclass at Dressage at Devon. Read it.
  • Burghley champion Gemma Stevens joined the Jon & Rick Show for their latest episode

Sponsor Corner: Which John Deere Discount Program is Best for You?

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Get started: Call 866-678-4289, email [email protected], or visit equinediscounts.com.



Coaching Corner


Go Eventing Moment of the Day

Another reminder of the Thoroughbred’s place in the sport:

Sunday Links: Tom McEwen Poised for Another Big Weekend, China Makes Dressage History at Asian Games & More

The Tear of Tom McEwen is poised to continue this weekend in Ireland at Ballendenisk’s fall International. Heading into today’s action, Tom is leading the CCI2*-L, CCI3*-S and CCI4*-L after cross country. By the time many of you are reading this on Sunday, some of those results will have come in so be sure to check in here to see if he pulls off yet another multi-win weekend (he just did this at Blenheim, most recently).

[Access full Ballindenisk scores]


Major International Events This Weekend

FEI Eventing Nations Cup – Lignières (France): [Website] [Timing & Scoring] [FEI Eventing Nations Cup 2026] [Live Stream – FEI YouTube] [Live Stream – ClipMyHorse.TV]

Ballindenisk CCI4*-L (Ireland): [Website] [Entries & Timing] [Scoring]

Eventing at the Parks and Canadian Eastern Eventing Championships (Ontario, Canada): [Website] [Entries & Timing] [Scoring]

U.S. Weekend Preview

Stable View Oktoberfest CCI4*-S (SC): [Website] [Entries & Timing] [Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Sept. 26 VIP Tickets] [Volunteer] [Play Eventing Manager]

Spokane Sport Horse 12th Annual Fall H.T. (WA): [Website] [Entries/Timing/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Sundance Farm H.T. (WI): [Website] [Entries/Timing/Scoring]

Jump Start H.T. (KY): [Website] [Entries/Timing/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Tomora H.T. (CO): [Website] [Entries/Timing] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Old Tavern H.T. (VA): [Website] [Entries/Timing] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

ESDCTA New Jersey H.T. (NJ): [Website] [Entries/Timing] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Course Brook Farm Fall H.T. (MS): [Website] [Entries/Timing] [Scoring] [Volunteer]



Quick Links


Training Tip of the Day

One tip for improving steering with your horse:


Go Eventing

Laine Ashker is back in the dressage ring at Dressage at Devon this week:

Mary Bess Davis Brings Home First CCI4* Win at Stable View Oktoberfest

Mary Bess Davis and Imperio Magic. Photo by Dave Shapiro.

Saturday at Stable View Oktoberfest began with dressage for the Training and Modified riders, show jumping for the CCI2*-S competitors, and cross country for the Intermediate division.
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Christina Henriksen and her own Cisco’s Calor Z held their lead from start to finish in the Intermediate Division, finishing their weekend on a 38.1. Waylon Roberts and FVF Top Gun LLC’s FVF Top Gun moved up to second place after a quick trip around the cross country. The combination finished on a 54.7. Rebecca Brown and Team Junior Syndicate’s Fernhill Quite Frankly weren’t far behind, finishing in third on a 56.3.
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The CCI3*-S followed the Intermediate, and the division saw quite a few changes in the leaderboard, with the time proving difficult to make and several combinations having stops along the way. Karl Slezak was one of only two to produce a double-clear round, moving up to win the division by 6.8 points on a 30.7 aboard Elizabeth Leete’s HSH Marshall. Slezak also finished in second place on Elizabeth Leete’s Herald De La Rose. The combination finished on a 37.5. Allison Springer and Nancy Winter’s Herald De La Rose also finished on a 37.5, with Slezak finishing just ahead of her on the tie-break.
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As the time approached for the CCI4*-S, the Pavilion porches became lined with spectators. VIP attendees enjoyed cider, Stable View travel cups, and their own to-go charcuterie boards. Stable View sponsors, GGT Footing and The Sharer Dale Team, enjoyed their course-side gazebos with their clients and friends.

The four-star saw plenty of shifting in the leaderboard as well. Overnight leaders Kim Severson and Ros and Bill Johnson’s Cooley Corraghy Diamond had a beautiful trip around the countryside. The combination ultimately added time penalties, dropping them down in the final standings. Severson shared yesterday, “I am really proud of Cory thus far; it has been a work in progress.”
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Alyssa Phillips and her own Rockett 19 added a handful of time penalties themselves. The pair ended their weekend in fifth place on a 43.4. Lucienne Bellissimo and Horse Scout Eventing LLC’s Dyri also ended their weekend on a 43.4, finishing just ahead of Phillips on the tie-break to take home fourth place.
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Only two CCI4*-S competitors managed to make the time on Helen West’s course. Waylon Roberts and Andrea McAllister’s Fernhill Salt Lake went double clear to move up to seventh place. Mary Bess Davis and her own Imperio Magic also went double clear. The combination brought home the win and was the only pair to finish sub-40, on a 39.9.
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Davis shared, “Mccoll was absolutely perfection today. I was so proud of him. He was all about business from the first to the last fence. It was such an honor to be his jockey today.”

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Limited Edition. Photo by Dave Shapiro.


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When asked what this win means for her, she said, “Well, it has taken me until the age of 48 to win a four-star, so today is a dream come true for me. I could not be more happy and proud.”
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Davis’s fall plans include a trip to Morven Park for the CCI4*-L. Davis said, “I think this track was a super prep run, and I am so excited for Morven!”

Caroline Pamukcu and Mollie Hoff’s HSH Limited Edition moved up to second place, adding just nine seconds of time to their score to finish on a 40.4. Aiken-based Emily Hamel and Black Flag Option’s Corvett moved up to third place, finishing on a 41.2.


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Hamel spoke very highly of Corvette, saying, “He’s so good. He’s just like a packer out there. He’s fantastic. We have such a great partnership. It’s fun to just take him out.”

Fans were happy to see the Aiken-based combination back out again at the upper levels. Hamel shared, “You know, at Kentucky he was kind of retired from the five-star level. He was really bored at home, so we brought him here, and he showed that he still has what it takes to run around the four-star. So he’s not retired yet.”
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Cross country course designer for the Intermediate, Advanced, CCI3*-S, and CCI4*-S, Helen West, shared, “I am thrilled with how the tracks rode today. The horses read the questions as I intended, and the lines flowed well. The footing was great, and you could really see horses were happy to travel on it. I feel that it was a positive experience for combinations, and they will come away from it in a good place. It was a perfect setup for autumn three-day events. There were enough questions and it needed riding, but those with a plan and who attacked it in balance made it look effortless.”

Emily Hamel and Corvett. Photo by Dave Shapiro.

Alyssa Phillips and her own Nadal led the CCI2*-S from start to finish. The combination added only one second of time over Mogie Bearden-Muller’s track to finish on a 26.3. Sydney Elliot and Carol Stephens’ Greenhall Good Decision went double clear to move up to second place and finish on a 29.1. Jordan Duffet and her own Charlie il Postino moved up to third, finishing on a 34.1.
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Candace Elizabeth Bell and Nell Wade’s Oscar won the CCI1*-S on a 29.5, adding only 2.8 time penalties to their score. Alyssa Phillips and her own Monbeg Dunard Blue finished second on a 33.8, and Laura Hilliard and her own Ballarin Shanado finished on a 48.9.
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Devin Robel and Gillou won the Advanced Division on a 47.5. Riley Zgrebnak and her own Cooley Roan Star won the Open Preliminary on a 29.7. Kaitlyn Cobey and her own Redfield Need For Speed won the Preliminary Rider on an impressive 23.7.
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Going into the final day of competition, Emerson Hover and Amore are sitting in first on a 30.8 in the Modified Rider Division. Lauren New and her own Mister Chin are in first in the Open Modified on a 32.3. Lauren Lambert and Anna Hailey’s FE Joker is Coming are leading the Open Training on a 25.3. In the Training Rider, Sharlee Lowe and her own Conthassini S are sitting in first on a 27.8.

Alyssa Phillips and Rockett 19. Photo by Dave Shapiro.


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Beginner Novice and Novice riders completed phase one of competition today. In Novice Rider A, Chloe-Renee Hetman and her own FGF Straight Time are sitting in first on a 27.5. Erica Webb and Crockett Miller’s Mr. Panda are first on a 26.7 in Novice Rider B. In Open Novice A, Sarah Berry Rajoy and Quantum ETC are in first on a 24.2. In Open Novice B, Ariel Grald and Annie Eldridge’s Baylee are sitting in first on a 23.1.
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Lyndsay Peterson and her own Remington Recall had the lowest dressage score of the day, starting their competition on a 20.6 and sitting in first in the Beginner Novice Rider Division. In the Open Beginner Novice, Courtney Lucas and her own Formidable are sitting in first on a 25.3.
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With plenty of competition still to come, the final day of Oktoberfest is shaping up to be another competitive day at Stable View. The remaining divisions will wrap up tomorrow. Spectators are invited to come out and enjoy the final day of competition, with free admission and plenty of opportunities to watch the action throughout the day.

Stable View Oktoberfest CCI4*-S (SC): [Website] [Entries & Timing] [Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Volunteer]

Saturday Links: Stable View Cross Country, Follow the French Nations Cup Leg & More

Kim Severson and Cooley Corraghy Diamond. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Cross country day is upon us at Stable View Oktoberfest and we’re looking at a bright warm day in Aiken, SC as cross country for the upper levels gets underway. If you aren’t able to attend in person, you’ll be able to watch live on Horse & Country here. It looks like the full day of cross country will be broadcast, but please refer to the stream itself for the most up-to-date information.

The day begins at 9:00 am EST with the Open Intermediate, moving into CCI3*-S at 10:02 am, Advanced and CCI4*-S at 12:08 pm, CCI2*-S and Preliminary at 2:13 pm and CCI1*-S at 4:30 pm.

In the CCI4*-S, also a last-ditch chance for US Equestrian Open points for the second and third spots on the series leaderboard, Kim Severson and Cooley Corraghy Diamond are in the lead after two phases on a score of 32.5. Time is always a factor at these Short format events that are typically set-ups for Long formats, and so it’s sure to influence the final placings — Kim has just 5 seconds of time in hand over Alyssa Phillips and Rockett 19 (34.6). Lucienne Bellissimo is hot on Alyssa’s heels on a two-phase score of 35.8 with Dyri and tied with herself on Qatar M.

Helen West’s cross country course carries an optimum time of 6:29 and is running in the opposite direction for a fresh look. This means’s Pavillon-stationed spectators on site will get an early look at the horses and riders as they come through the Pavillon Corner Complex (14AB), the Derby Field Splash (15) and the Easter Academy Alp and Corner (20, 21AB). Take a look at the full course here.

[Access the live stream on H&C+]
[View live scores]


And overseas…

If you’re an earlier bird, you can also tune in for show jumping at the French leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup in Lignières, which begins at 7:00 am EST and can be viewed for free on the FEI YouTube channel here. Cross country will also be streamed on Sunday on the same channel (also on ClipMyHorse.TV, if you already have a subscription).

Following dressage, France leads the way both in the team standings and individually, with Thomas Carlile and Golden de Beliard AA in the lead with a score of 27.6. View full standings here.


Major International Events This Weekend

FEI Eventing Nations Cup – Lignières (France): [Website] [Timing & Scoring] [FEI Eventing Nations Cup 2026] [Live Stream – FEI YouTube] [Live Stream – ClipMyHorse.TV]

Ballindenisk CCI4*-L (Ireland): [Website] [Entries & Timing] [Scoring]

Eventing at the Parks and Canadian Eastern Eventing Championships (Ontario, Canada): [Website] [Entries & Timing] [Scoring]

U.S. Weekend Preview

Stable View Oktoberfest CCI4*-S (SC): [Website] [Entries & Timing] [Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Sept. 26 VIP Tickets] [Volunteer] [Play Eventing Manager]

Spokane Sport Horse 12th Annual Fall H.T. (WA): [Website] [Entries/Timing/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Sundance Farm H.T. (WI): [Website] [Entries/Timing/Scoring]

Jump Start H.T. (KY): [Website] [Entries/Timing/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Tomora H.T. (CO): [Website] [Entries/Timing] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Old Tavern H.T. (VA): [Website] [Entries/Timing] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

ESDCTA New Jersey H.T. (NJ): [Website] [Entries/Timing] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Course Brook Farm Fall H.T. (MS): [Website] [Entries/Timing] [Scoring] [Volunteer]



Quick Links


Training Tip of the Day

A good reminder on body position and not leaning for a fence:


Go Eventing

Meet Musa Hussain, a 21 year old currently competing at 4* level in eventing, with ambitions of ultimately reaching 5*. He’s an ambitious young rider who wants to compete at the highest level and produce good horses. His British-Pakistani heritage is an important part of his identity, and he recognizes that being visible at this level may help encourage people who don’t currently see themselves represented in the sport:

Ladies Rule the Day at Stable View Oktoberfest

Kim Severson and Cooley Corraghy Diamond lead the CCI4*-S at Stable View Oktoberfest. Photo via Stable View press release.

The first day of competition kicked off as the coldest morning so far this season in Aiken, with a brisk wind chill of 49 degrees. Lucienne Bellissimo and Horse Scout Eventing LLC’s Dyri were the first down the center line in the CCI4*-S. They held the early lead, scoring a 31.8. Scores remained on the higher end, with not one score dropping into the 20s this morning. Towards the end of the division, Kim Severson and Ros and Bill Johnson’s Cooley Corraghy Diamond bested Bellissimo’s score by .1 to end dressage on a 31.7. Alyssa Phillips and her own Rockett 19 slid into third place post-dressage on a 33.
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This year’s competition marks the 12th year of Oktoberfest at Stable View. Stable View’s Barry Olliff shared, “This event has gone from a gleam in our eye to one of the largest horse trials on the East Coast. We try and make a few improvements every year—it’s great that riders regularly return. This is the first time in five years that Oktoberfest hasn’t been affected by the weather. We all remember Helene—that was the worst—but this year’s weather is going to be ideal.”
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As the day continued, it turned into a beautiful autumn afternoon, with highs reaching the mid-seventies. Show jumping kicked off in the Phillip’s Arena at 1:15 p.m. with the CCI4*-S and Advanced Divisions. Less than a rail separated the top ten, and Manny Esparza’s course proved challenging with Mary Bess Davis and her own Imperio Magic being the only duo to go double clear. With the rails flying and the time ticking, there was a bit of a shuffle in the leaderboard.

Alyssa Phillips and Rockett 19. Photo via Stable View press release.

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Severson managed to hold the lead, adding just two seconds of time to her dressage score. She and Cooley Corraghy Diamond will be going into cross country with a 32.5. Phillips added a handful of time penalties herself but was able to move up to second on a 34.6. Following stadium, Bellissimo is now tied for third place with Qatar M. She and Dyri added one rail to their dressage score, while Qatar M added 1.6 time penalties. They are both sitting on a 35.8.

When asked about her rides in the four-star today, Phillips shared, “He was a bit wild for the dressage, and I had to be very tactful. There were a few mistakes, but I have him fit for Morven, and the weather is a bit chilly, so the fitness really showed up today. He jumped great. It’s nice to feel him ready to go because down in Florida it’s still a little muggy, so they’re more mellow.”

We asked if she had a chance to check out the cross country yet: “I’ve been around the cross country once, and I’m about to go out again, but it looks nice. There’s a lot to do. I look forward to having a good prep run to set us up well for Morven!”
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When asked about her rides, Bellissimo shared, “Really impressed with Qatar M today. It’s his first CCI4*, and he showed serious potential in both the dressage and show jumping, although he’s still green in his flying changes at this time. Dyri had an unlucky rail in show jumping, but I have no doubt the cross country will be influential tomorrow. The ground is superb, and I’m looking forward to it.”

Lucienne Bellissimo and Qatar M. Photo via Stable View press release.

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The CCI3*-S is the largest division this weekend, with thirty-seven combinations. Caroline Pamukcu and Luann McElduff and Sherrie Martin’s HSH Conner moved up to first place following show jumping to sit on a 29.3. Canadian Katie Malensek and her own Civento moved up to second after a beautiful double-clear show jumping round. They will head into cross country on a 29.6. Not far behind them, on a 30.2, is Caroline Pamukcu and Mollie Hoff’s Nobless.
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In the Advanced Division, Devin Robel and Gillou are sitting in first on a 37.1. In the Intermediate, Christina Henriksen and her own Cisco’s Calor Z are in first on a 32.9.
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The CCI2*-S and CCI1*-S divisions finished phase one of their competitions today. In the two-star, Alyssa Phillips is leading on her own Nadal on a 25.9. Elisa Wallace and Donna Bigg’s Belline Foody’s Out of the Blue are in second on a 28.6. Rounding out the top three is Michelle Mercier and her own Shirsheen Fun For All with a 29.
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In the CCI1*-S Division, Candace Elizabeth Bell and Nell Wade’s Oscar are sitting in first on a 26.7. Susan Plumb and CDP Stables LLC’s Cooley All In are sitting in second on a 28.5. Rounding out the top three is Alyssa Phillips, who has had a great start to her weekend, and her own Monbeg Dunard Blue. The pair will go into tomorrow on a 29.8.

Helen West, cross country designer for the CCI4*-S, CCI3*-S, Advanced, and Intermediate, shared, “The tracks have a variety of questions which test balance and accuracy. All questions are clear for the horse to read, and I hope will encourage good jumping and provide pleasing pictures.”

[View the cross country maps]
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West went on to share, “The tracks are beautifully prepared, and it is always a great experience designing here at Stable View with such a fabulous selection of well-built fences to play with. I have enjoyed introducing more real brush at the higher levels, which enables me to ask greater accuracy questions, with some of the angles in particular. I also think it gives a more natural and authentic cross country experience and helps prepare combinations for the major three-day events. I am looking forward to watching the tracks ride tomorrow and hope everyone enjoys riding them.”

Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri. Photo by Shelby Allen.

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Bellissimo and Dyri won the CCI4*-S at this year’s Stable View Spring FEI. They also took home first place at Oktoberfest in 2024. Will this weekend add a third Stable View Four-Star to their record, or will Qatar M, Severson and Cooley Corraghy Diamond, Phillips and Rockett 19, or another combination take home the title?

Stable View Oktoberfest CCI4*-S (SC): [Website] [Entries & Timing] [Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Sept. 26 VIP Tickets] [Volunteer] [Play Eventing Manager]
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