While the eventing world has been lost in a Badminton haze, it is important to remember there are other events going on (just helping John out on his lack of memory). Perhaps one the the most exciting things that has happened over the weekend is Tamra Smith winning Twin Rivers HT on Leigh Mesher’s Mar de Amor. Dinero, as he is called in the barn, is a fantastic horse with amazing talent. Mesher, who is currently not able to compete due to a bun in the oven, has given the ride to the very capable Smith. Smith and Big D $$ are currently aiming for the 2011 Pan American Games. For those who are interested in helping them get there, stop in and donate in a fun way!
Fair Hill Horse Trials also happened this weekend. While I hear it was very wet and cold, it seems like it was a good weekend. The CIC*** was won by Nina Ligon and Fernhill Fearless. Doug Payne pulled the win in the Advanced section with Jennie Brannigan and Walkabout following close behind. For full results, check below.
Twin River Scores
What a day of cross country riding at Badminton. I wasn’t able to see all of the rounds, but of the ones I did see, there were some pretty amazing ones. Andrew Nicholson hands down makes XC riding look like going for a quiet hack. His skill in the saddle is to die for. Of course, there were the ever impressive young riders. Everyone should know about my Laura Collett obsession by now. I’ve been thinking about calling her up and asking to switch lives for a month or so. I’m sure she would love it here in Virginia… But besides my crush Laura, there were some other impressive rounds including Georgie Spence and Flora Harris.
These two weeks are so exciting in eventing. I love the non stop coverage of two of the greatest events in the world. Badminton and Kentucky as so motivating. So much so, I got Finley (for those of you who don’t remember Finley, click here) out and practiced my half pass and changes. In time, we should be pretty good together. Don’t worry, despite these two huge events, Eventing Nation will be right here to give you coverage on all the national horse trials as well.
Now for a few more -mostly Badminton- notes:
–Ben Hobday discusses his very slow cross country round today. Despite racking up some 97 time penalties, Ben was thrilled with his horse and said they both came away much smarter.I love seeing riders being so thrilled with their horses- even when they have an undesirable about of time penalties.
–Sam Watson discusses the legend that leads the pack. Personally I love reading Sam’s blog. He is so well spoken and has a fantastic humor. I bet Samantha sure did enjoy all of her quality time with him.
-Emily Cammock continues her winning style by winning two divisions at the South Island 3day Event.
-The road to Rolex with Heather Gillette, blog he discusses how the horses went and just how pleased he is with them.
-William Micklem’s thoughts from the Badminton XC
-The Lexington Herald Leader profiles Kentucky’s Hannah Burnett and her trip to Rolex
-Blyth Tait’s Ready Teddy has passed away due to colic complications. Many of you will remember this fantastic chestnut when he helped Tait achieve Olympic and World Championship gold. 23 year old Ready Teddy will be greatly missed among all those he touched.
Riders reflect on their XC rides:
The final horse inspection is at 3:30am Eastern, the first section of show jumping is a 6am and the top 20 ride at 9am ET. Hope everyone stays tuned for tomorrow exciting finale at Badminton. No matter who wins, they will surely deserve it. Go Eventing.
