Classic Eventing Nation

Friday News & Notes from Stable View

By on Aug 22, 2025 12:01 am -

It’s nearly time for top-level cross country at the brand new Scone Palace International in Scotland! Some creative fences feature on the courses designed by incoming Olympic designer Alex Lochore, all in homage to the event’s Scottish routes. If you want a full preview, be sure to stop by CrossCountry App here for a fence-by-fence look at what’s ahead. Tomorrow, you can watch live on ClipMyHorse.TV beginning at 3:30 a.m. EST / 9:30 a.m. local time with the CCI2*-L, followed by the CCI4*-L starting around 7:10 a.m. EST / 1:00 p.m. local time here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Huntington Farm H.T. (VT): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer]

Bouckaert Equestrian International H.T. (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Hunter’s Run H.T. (MI): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]

Major International Events

Scone Palace International (Scotland): [Website] [Timing/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream]

FEI Eventing European Championships for Juniors/Young Riders (Poland): [Website] [FEI Info Hub + Entries] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream]

News & Reading

We LOVE a VIP Volunteer! In this spotlight from the USEA, you’ll meet Kendra Zartmana, a longtime Area VII volunteer who started volunteering as a way to stay close to her barn family. Her love of dressage scribing, what volunteering means to her, and the value of volunteers are all themes to explore in this profile piece.

The prestige and heritage of equestrian sports give them unique marketing power. Major companies and sponsors are noticing that equestrian events can deliver both elite branding opportunities and broad audience reach. From luxury fashion houses leveraging equestrian imagery to sports broadcasters inking unprecedented media deals, the industry is riding strong tailwinds. This article from Equerry/CO takes a data-driven, analytical look at the equestrian sports sector’s growth; examining market size, media impact, sponsorship trends, and cultural crossovers, to reveal why investing in the equine sports industry today could be a winning strategy.

In the 18th century, the Barb horse, probably of Arabian origin, would experience an incredible destiny that inspired writers and painters. Once upon a time, there was the Godolphin Arabian. Take a fascinating dive into the origins of the Thoroughbred and the Godolphin Arabian here.

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

Doug Payne and Camarillo. Photo by Christine Quinn Photography.

Stable View’s 2025 Oktoberfest is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet, with $60,000 in prize money on the line — including $40,000 for the CCI4-S*. Competitors can look forward to world-class courses designed by Helen West, Mogie Bearden-Muller, and Chris Barnard, plus irrigated, aerated turf footing that promises a true test at every level.

Evenings will feature the beloved Graze & Gaze gatherings, with Friday’s event sponsored by Pony Policy. For those wanting the VIP treatment, don’t miss out on tickets for Saturday, September 27, offering Stable View’s signature charcuterie, an open bar, and access to the Pavilion.

And for a bit of extra team spirit, the Adult Team Challenge returns with prizes and ribbons awarded through third place. Interested in sponsoring a team prize? Email [email protected] to get involved.

Click here for more information and VIP tickets.

Video Break

Learn about the official charity of Scone Palace International this weekend, the Georgie Campbell Foundation:

German Squad Named for Agria FEI Eventing European Championships

By on Aug 21, 2025 12:00 pm -

Michael Jung and fischerChipmunk FRH. Photo by Alex Jeffery.

The German participants for the European Eventing Championships in Blenheim, Great Britain (September 18-21) have been confirmed. The Elite Eventing Working Group of the German Olympic Equestrian Committee (DOKR) has nominated six pairs for the start. The final decision on which four pairs will make up the German team will be made on-site in Great Britain.

Nominated combinations are (in alphabetical order):

  • Calvin Böckmann (Warendorf/WEF) with The Phantom of the Opera (Owners: Simone, Roger, Jason, Liam & Calvin Böckmann; Breeder: Peter Fick)
  • Malin Hansen-Hotopp (Gransebieth/MEV) with Carlitos Quidditch K (Owner: Dr. Bodil Ipsen; Breeder: Miriam Kühl)
  • Michael Jung (Horb/BAW) with fischerChipmunk FRH (Owners: Sabine & Klaus Fischer, Joachim Jung and the DOKR; Breeder: Sabine and Dr. Hilmer Meyer-Kulenkampff)
  • Libussa Lübbeke (Warendorf/WEF) with Caramia (Owner: Annelie and Dr. Martin Lübbeke; Breeder: Annelie Lübbeke)
  • Jérôme Robiné (Warendorf/WEF) with Black Ice (Owner: Dorothea von Zedtwitz; Breeder: Judith McClelland)
  • Anna Siemer (Salzhausen/HAN) with FRH Butt’s Avondale (owner and breeder: Prof. Dr. Volker Steinkraus)

First reserve is Nicolai Aldinger (Egestorf/HAN) with Timmo (owners: Cornelia & Dieter Aldinger and Jutta & Michael Spethmann; breeder: Ole Lehmann), second reserve is Emma Brüssau (Warendorf/Schriesheim/BAW) with Dark Desire GS (owner: Dr. Jürgen Andreas Brüssau; breeder: Bernd Gehrdau-Schröder).

You can view more Europeans coverage here.

Stay Safe, Save Big: Ride EquiSafe’s 2nd Annual Safe in the Saddle Week

By on Aug 21, 2025 10:00 am -

Doug Payne and Quantum Leap. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Safety first—and savings too! Ride EquiSafe is celebrating its 2nd Annual Safe in the Saddle Week, running now through August 24, with a week full of deals, giveaways, and educational content focused on helping riders put their safety at the top of the priority list.

Throughout the week, you’ll find exclusive promotions, including:

  • Buy an air vest, get a free canister
  • Up to 10% off select safety products
  • Free sample of The Infused Equestrian’s Noggin Spray with any vest or helmet purchase
  • Spend $500, get a $25 gift card

Exclusive safety-oriented content on Ride EquiSafe’s website.

And that’s not all—Ride EquiSafe has teamed up with Eventing Nation to offer an exclusive giveaway. Visit this link to enter for a chance to win a $250 gift certificate toward your next Ride EquiSafe purchase.

Safety is more than a product—it’s a mindset. As Ride EquiSafe founder Catherine Winter explains in her recent interview on The Go Eventing Podcast, the mission is simple: to provide riders with the tools and information they need to advocate for their own personal safety.

Don’t miss your chance to save and win—Safe in the Saddle Week ends Saturday, August 24!

2025 Maryland International Equestrian Foundation International Riders Travel Grant Announcement

By on Aug 21, 2025 9:00 am -

Tim Price and Falco. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Attention 5* Eventers! The International Riders Travel Grant Program is designed to help bring the world’s top horses and riders – both from across the U.S. and abroad – to Maryland for the MARS Maryland 5* at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory, one of only seven CCI5* events in the world. This innovative program was created in partnership with Carolyn Mackintosh, owner of Loch Moy Farm.

Travel Grant applications for the 2025 International Riders Travel Grant Program for the Maryland 5 Star must be submitted on or before September 1, 2025. The Travel Grant application must include an approximate budget for travel to the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill held annually in Cecil County, Maryland, in October. The funds are allocated to directly offset some transportation expenses for athletes to compete at the Maryland 5 Star. Travel Grant funds will be allocated no later than September 17, 2025.

[2025 Travel Grant Application]

Applicants may be a US citizen or foreign Athlete, traveling a minimum of 1,000 miles (each way), who is a member in good standing with both their national organization and the FEI. All horses must be qualified per the FEI Rules for Eventing.

These grants are allocated on mileage, past competition performances, and FEI World Ranking. An athlete’s commercial viability and willingness to promote the event to sponsors and spectators will also be considered.

Guidelines

The Travel Grant application must be submitted on or before September 1, 2025. The Travel Grant application must be completed and include an approximate budget for travel to the Maryland 5 Star.

Once the recipients of the Travel Grants and award amounts are determined, the funds will be released by the Maryland International Equestrian Foundation for allocation to the athletes. The Committee will rely on the good faith of recipients that these monies will be used as intended for travel to the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill.

Recipients of the Travel Grants are expected to participate in promotional activities prior and during the event as requested by the event organizers. These activities will be agreed upon with the athlete in advance and coordinated by the Director of Competition, Joanie Morris at [email protected]. These activities may include, but are not limited to:

  • Sharing social media content
  • Attending sponsor receptions
  • Conducting autograph signings
  • Participating in social media content creation
  • Leading scheduled course walks, etc.

Travel Grants will be allocated no later than September 17, 2025.

Eligibility Requirements

  • This grant is restricted to individuals who meet the following requirements:
  • Applicant may be a US citizen or foreign Athlete who is a member in good standing with both their national organization and the FEI. All horses must be qualified per the USEF Rules for Eventing Annex 2.
  • Applicant may be from any country, traveling a minimum of 1000 miles (each way) to the event.

[2025 Travel Grant Application]

We look forward to seeing you in Maryland!

Thursday News & Notes from Virginia Horse Center Foundation

By on Aug 21, 2025 12:01 am -

Racing is returning to Fair Hill! After a hiatus, the ever-popular racing will resume at Fair Hill on its lush turf track on August 30. There is no admission or parking fee for this event, and it’s a great way to set foot on the site of the MARS Maryland 5 Star ahead of October’s festivities. For more information, click here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Huntington Farm H.T. (VT): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer]

Bouckaert Equestrian International H.T. (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Hunter’s Run H.T. (MI): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]

Major International Events

Scone Palace International (Scotland): [Website] [Timing/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream]

News & Reading

It’s safe to say that show jumping legend Beezie Madden has a whole store of knowledge to share. Lucky for us, she is generous with this knowledge, and in a recent interview with World of Show Jumping, she shared her thoughts on horsemanship and the challenges the equestrian industry is currently facing. It’s a piece well, well worth the read, as Beezie talks about the increase in availability of showing opportunities, what many find acceptable and how that compares to public opinion and much more. Beezie may spend her time in the show jumping ring, but her thoughts can be applicable to and food for thought for all of us. Read the piece here.

Last week, media were invited to a day of interview opportunities and a walk around Derek di Grazia’s refreshed cross country course for Defender Burghley. In case you missed it, Derek’s reversed the direction of the course this year — the first time this has been done since 2017 — and it’s certainly got us all buzzing to see it in action. Get an early preview ahead of the official course preview video coming soon here.

Equestrian Canada’s Eventing High Performance Advisory Group (HPAG) is excited to announce an exciting new a coast-to-coast clinic series for all levels. Powered by Canada’s National Team Program eventing athletes and the Eventing High Performance Advisory Group, this unique clinic series brings top-tier talent to local arenas, connecting riders, coaches and fans through a shared passion for the sport. Read more about the clinic series and how you can participate here.

Sponsor Corner: Virginia Horse Center Foundation and VHC Eventing

Here’s a fun idea to escape the late summer heat and enjoy some low-key time with your horse and your friends! Virginia Horse Center is hosting an Open Trail Day on September 27, with all proceeds from the $10 admission fee going to ongoing trail improvements. This is your chance to explore the 5 miles of gorgeous trails within the Virginia Horse Center property! Stalls and campsites available by calling the Stable Office: 540-464-2966. Questions? Contact Tammy Nichols at [email protected] or 540-871-9891.

Video Break

Some always-useful money advice from Mary Hurston on a recent episode of “No Stupid Questions” from NÖELLE FLOYD:

Save Big at Stübben This Week Only

By on Aug 20, 2025 4:07 pm -

Stübben rider Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Stübben North America has announced a limited-time 20% off sitewide sale, giving riders the chance to save on nearly everything from saddles to accessories. The discount applies to all products—including new saddles—making this one of the most comprehensive sales the company has ever offered.

The only exception is on custom saddles, but shoppers will still find unbeatable savings across Stübben’s renowned range of tack, equipment, and rider gear. Known for combining German craftsmanship with modern innovation, Stübben products are a favorite among riders at every level of equestrian sport.

The sale runs for a limited time, making now the perfect opportunity to upgrade your equipment and experience the comfort, durability, and performance that has defined Stübben for over a century.

Visit stubbennorthamerica.com to shop the sale before it ends this Sunday, August 24!

Belgium Unveils Agria FEI Eventing European Championships Roster

By on Aug 20, 2025 11:00 am -

The team decisions are rolling in thick and fast now, and we have a look today at the Belgian squad who will be traveling to Blenheim in September:

👊 Team:
Wouter De Cleene – Quintera
Lara De Liedekerke – Hooney d’Arville (reserve: Kiarado d’Arville)
Tine Magnus – Dia van het Lichterveld Z
Senne Vervaecke – Google van Alsingen

⭐ Individuals:
Jasper Peeters – Jackass PK
Karin Donckers – Olympic de Muze or Ceres de la Brasserie

Congratulations to all! You can view more Europeans coverage here.

Swiss Team Announced for Agria FEI Eventing European Championships

By on Aug 20, 2025 9:00 am -

Nadja Minder and Toblerone. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

The Eventing Swiss Equestrian Selection Committee has made the selection for the European Eventing Elite Championships in Blenheim (GBR) from September 18-21, 2025. The following riders will represent the Swiss colors at this European Championship:

  • Robin Godel, Donatyre (FR), with Global DHI, owner: Catherine Brünisholz, Reserve: Grandeur de Lully CH, owner: Jean-Jacques Fünfschilling
  • Mélody Johner, Lausanne (VD), with Erin, Owner: Mélody Johner, Syndicat Gama
  • Nadja Minder, Illnau (ZH), with Toblerone CH, Qwner: Nicole Basieux
  • Philip Ryan, Obergerlafingen (SO), with Amansara, Qwners: Ruedi Bossard, Gerda Fürling, Petra and Michael Bossard
  • Felix Vogg, Radolfzell GER, with Frieda, Owner: Phoenix Eventing Sàrl, Felix Vogg; Reserve: Cartania, Owner: Felix Vogg, Phoenix Eventing Sàrl

A decision on the deployment of a sixth pair will be made in a week.

Dominik Burger, Team Manager: “Of course, we’ll try to ‘trick our way to a medal,’ but we must also be aware that, with the exception of one horse, this is the first international championship for all the others! In this sense, these European Championships in Blenheim, as planned, are an important first step toward the future, with the World Championships in Aachen in 2026, the European Championships in Avenches in 2027, and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. We’re looking forward to this top event in the ‘homeland’ of eventing!”

In addition to the team leader, Antonia Müller will be the team veterinarian, as well as Gilles Ngovan as dressage coach, Andrew Nicholson as cross-country coach and Markus Fuchs as show jumping coach, all of whom will be looking after the Swiss riders on site.

Wednesday News & Notes from Maryland Horse Trials

By on Aug 20, 2025 12:01 am -

Many congratulations to the upcoming round of Strides for Equality Ever So Sweet Camp attendees! For this camp, Amanda Stradley of Maryland, Daija Sams and Mia Valdez of South Carolina, Kiara Moore and Makayla Washington of North Carolina, and Samantha Diaz of Virginia will join a group of riders from Trinidad and Tobago for four days of coaching, horsemanship education, and community building led by five star Eventing and Grand Prix rider Sara Kozumplik at Overlook Farm in Berryville, VA. You can learn more about Strides for Equality Equestrians here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

Huntington Farm H.T. (VT): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer]

Bouckaert Equestrian International H.T. (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Hunter’s Run H.T. (MI): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]

Major International Events

Scone Palace International (Scotland): [Website] [Timing/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream]

News & Reading

The West coast is calling! This time next week, we’ll be on the ground at the USEA American Eventing Championships presented by Nutrena, where there are a ton of prizes, rewards and bragging rights on offer for all recognized divisions, starting with Starter and going up all the way through Advanced. See a full rundown of what you’ll get in your competitor packet and beyond here.

“Working with horses without reading their body language is like attempting meaningful conversation while actively not listening,” says liberty training expert Ben Atkinson in a recent interview with Horse & Hound. “Every time a horse offers us information with their body, and we miss or ignore it, we act like a dictator. We show them we are not a conversation partner, or someone they can trust.” Indeed, learning how to read equine body language is key to understanding how to best work with them empathetically and correctly. Read the full interview here.

Every so often while grooming your horse, you may come across a lump or bump that seems out of place. When these pop up under your horse’s jaw, is there a reason to worry? There are certainly a few medical reasons why these lumps and bumps may crop up, and understanding this can be key in knowing when to call your vet and when to just keep an eye on things. Learn more in this Practical Horseman refresher.

Sponsor Corner: Maryland Horse Trials

Maryland International

Photo by Erin Gilmore Photography

Entries are now open for the Maryland Horse Trials III and Area II Championships, October 2-5 in Adamstown, MD!

The Maryland Horse Trials is pleased to welcome Land Rover West Columbia as the title sponsor of this event, and a full weekend of festivities awaits. The Maryland Horse Trials III + Area II Championship offers National divisions from Starter through Intermediate. Area II includes competitors from Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. All Area II Championship competitors must qualify throughout the year to compete in the October 3-5 Area II Championship.

Thanks to the generosity of Witherspoon, LLC, and Jim Newman, a longtime USEA volunteer and Loch Moy Farm supporter, Maryland Horse Trials is also proud to award $4,000 in prize money to the Area II Championship division winners.

Learn more about this event here.

Video Break

Mia Farley checks in with some insights on helping your horse recover after the big effort of cross country:

Harry Meade to Head Out First at Defender Burghley

By on Aug 19, 2025 10:46 am -

Harry Meade and Et Hop du Matz. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

World number one Harry Meade will be the first rider to go at Defender Burghley 2025 (4-7 September) on his own and Mandy Gray’s Et Hop Du Matz – and the last, on Dinah and Stephen Posford and Juliet Carter’s Annaghmore Valoner.

As the only competitor with three horses entered for the Lincolnshire CCI5*, Harry’s rides have been drawn 1, 24 (Cavalier Crystal, owned by Charlotte and Peter Opperman) and 60. There are 60 entries in total, but no rider is asked to carry supposedly unlucky number 13.

The 2024 Defender Burghley champions, Ros Canter and Archie and Michele Saul’s Lordships Graffalo, will set off late in the day as number 53.

There are five former Burghley-winning riders in the 2025 field: Piggy March (2022) has been drawn 23 on Maidwell Mavericks’ MCS Maverick, while Caroline Powell (2010) is number 30 on High Time V, owned by Ruth Armstrong, Serena Greenwell, Jo West, Tom Craig and Annabel Jenks. Tim Price (2018) and his 2024 Burghley runner-up, Joe and Alex Giannamore’s Vitali, secured number 40 in the draw. And Oliver Townend (2009, 2017 and 2023) and Paul and Diana Ridgeon’s Cooley Rosalent are number 50.

To see the complete drawn order for Defender Burghley 2025, please visit www.burghley-horse.co.uk/competition/cci5

 A full preview of this year’s cross-country track will feature shortly on Burghley TV, which will broadcast every moment of the action from Defender Burghley 2025.

To find out more about Defender Burghley (September 4-7 2025) and to purchase tickets and hospitality, visit www.burghley-horse.co.uk.

Defender Burghley: [Website] [Tickets] [Entries] [Burghley TV]