If you’ve been wondering where all the British 5* eventers are, I’ve found them. It seems they’ve been trading in the winter weather for sunny skies and going off track in Kenya.
Badminton and Burghley winner Piggy March, above, Olympic medalist Tom McEwen, and World No. 5 Harry Meade have all been spotted on safari, whilst Emily King‘s been busy sorting out her rider’s tan.
Oh, for some time in the saddle under blue skies and sunshine! We’re totally green-eyed.
Wherever you are, go eventing.
U.S. Weekend Preview
Full Gallop Farm January H.T (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer]
Rocking Horse Winter I H.T. (Altoona, FL) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]
Thursday News and Reading
As we reel from the news this week that eventing isn’t a given at the 2028 LA Olympics, the proposed format change is something that’s got everyone in the industry talking. One such professional is Horse and Hound editor Pippa Roome, who’s got three big questions about the proposal for cross country to be the final phase: how will it impact eventing’s roots?; what about the missing horse inspection – and what might it mean in terms of rider choices and horse welfare?; and, given the undeniable delay when it comes to confirming results, due to missed flag reviews for example, how will that work when medal ceremonies are scheduled? All salient points within the biggest question – is Olympic eventing in danger?
Eventing opportunities from USEA. If you fancy trying out eventing without the pressure of entering a recognized event, the New Event Horse program is for you. Find out more and check out the calendar of events for the 2024 season here. And for eventers with dreams of competing at the AEC this season, the new Starter level will be offered in the Junior and Open divisions this year. Here’s everything you need to know.
As we gear up for show season, let’s take a minute to think about how we can protect our horses while they’re out and about. Whenever we put our horses in a situation which involves them mixing with other horses, it’s key that we do everything in our power to prevent them from picking up something nasty. Here are some handy biosecurity strategies for before, during and after a show that we should all take note of.
There’s the promise of more freedom on the trail thanks to the new EXPLORE Act. The Act will see greater access to green spaces, public lands and waters, and will protect access for horseback riders on public lands. The Act has passed the House Natural Resources Committee and will now go to the full House and Senate.
It’s back to basics in the forests of South Wales, UK, where horse power runs on four legs. Logging work is being undertaken to clear diseased trees from a forest on the outskirts of the Welsh capital city, and rather than bringing in heavy machinery, Natural Resources Wales is opting for a more, well, natural solution.
And finally, there’s a new eventer in town… and he’s sweeter than a box of cupcakes. Meet Bubby Upton’s new pal Simba. And there’s more good news from Bubby, she’s back working over fences – a sight we’re delighted to see.
Sponsor Corner
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Video Break
Meet the two mini horses who are right at home in their two-horse city where they’re the only horses in town.
