Many congratulations to 5* rider Gemma Stevens, who emerged victorious in the crowd-favorite Cavago Six Bar jumping class at the London International Horse Show on Saturday, besting 12 other competitors aboard Envoy Merelsnest Z through five rounds in which the jumps were raised after each. Facing off against Olympic show jumper John Whitaker and Sharid, Gemma and Envoy Merelsnest Z cleared a massive 1.95m final fence to seal the victory.
“Honestly, I am amazed – he was absolutely brilliant,” Gemma told British Showjumping. “I’ve always known he can jump a big vertical, but putting it all together is the real challenge. I genuinely can’t believe we won today. The atmosphere here at London International is incredible, and like usual he gave his all, trying so hard to clear every jump.”
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News & Reading
US Equestrian has issued an alert regarding the dangers of the screwworm, a devastating and potentially deadly pest, as it spreads around Mexico. “Screwworm has expanded uncontrollably in the last several months from South America and now into Mexico,” USEF said in a press release. “If not controlled the screwworm flies will continue to move north into the United States. There is the additional risk illegal horse entry into the United States could bring in screwworm. You can read more about this warning here.
Did you know that the USEA Foundation awards over 150 grants each year to deserving individuals who are involved in the sport of eventing? During the 2024 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention, held Dec. 12-15 in Seattle, Washington, USEA CEO Rob Burk was joined by a panel of individuals deeply involved in the USEA Foundation including USEA Foundation Chair Hilary Miskoe, multi-time Foundation grant recipient Sharon White, Beth Lendrum of the Broussard Charitable Trust Foundation, and USEA Foundation Development Officer Katherine Cooper. Together, these five individuals shared their top tips for those interested in applying for USEA Foundation grant funding in the future to help make sure your application stands out in the most positive way. Read their advice here.
Thinking of attending the USEA ECP Symposium at Galway Downs in January? There are a lot of benefits to furthering your education as a coach or prospective coach, and this seminar is one way to do it! Read up on what you could take away from attending a Symposium here.
You may have heard of TMJ disease in humans, but until fairly recently it wasn’t known that horses could get it as well. TMJ pain can be caused by trauma, arthritis, infection, inflammation or just wear-and-tear and can manifest as a number of symptoms including head tossing, head sensitivity, trouble eating, uneven wear on the teeth, and difficulty with bits and flexing at the poll. Read more about how TMJ can affect your horse here.
Video Break
Catch up with Australian Olympian Chris Burton:
