A little piece of history leads us off this Friday morning, all the way from Burghley Horse Trials in the UK! Here’s what Burghley shared about this photo series:
We were sent the first of these photos by Pierre le Goupil, Course Designer of the 2024 Paris Olympic cross-country course, from his parents home last week – an invitation from British Equestrian (formerly the BEF), and Burghley Horse Trials to the drinks party for the 1974 World Championships held at Burghley. Pierre’s parents were both successful event riders, and his late father, Andre, competed at the 1968 Olympic Games.
This little piece of history inspired a further look into our archives to these World Championships, which were won by Bruce Davidson and Irish Cap. This victory marked the first time an American had won a World title in eventing. It was a pivotal achievement for the sport in the US and contributed to their hosting of the next World Championships at Kentucky in 1978.
The 1974 World Championships were the second that Burghley hosted, the first being in 1966. In only the second year of the horse trials running, Burghley hosted the European Championships (1962), and went on to host a further five in 1971, 1977, 1985, 1989 and 1997, as well as one Young Riders European Championship in 1978 – no other horse trials site has staged as many Championships.
Thank you Pierre, for inspiring a trip down memory lane!
News & Reading
Here is your chance to support one of our valued eventing venues, Virginia Horse Center. The Virginia Horse Center Foundation is running its annual donation drive to support ongoing efforts to improve and expand the Horse Center in Lexington, VA. You can donate here.
Equestrian Australia is updating its helmet safety standards to follow recent updates to FEI guidelines. Click here to see how this affects your helmet choice for competition.
Sally Cat is a 7-year-old mare who transitioned from an untrained rescue to a confident eventing partner under the guidance of Mikenna Hallock. Sally Cat had farm from an auspicious start to her career, having been surrendered to a rescue after her initial owner entered hospice care. She was untrained and fearful, but with Mikenna’s help she’s transformed into an eventing partner of a lifetime. Read this inspiring tale here.
Working with a new OTTB this winter? The first ride outside of the arena can often be a little anxiety-inducing, but never fear! The Retired Racehorse Project has rounded up some advice from a pro to help you make this a great experience for both you and your horse. Read it here.
Sponsor Corner: Stable View
Entries are officially open for the Aiken Opener H.T., happening January 18 and 19 at Stable View in Aiken, SC! Divisions from Starter through Preliminary are on offer, and it’s a great opportunity to start knocking off that winter rust and legging up for the new season. You can make your entry here, and you can also learn more about the full calendar at Stable View here.
Video Break
Make those braids and quarter marks shine next season with these tips from freelance #supergroom Jennie Savolainen:
