The beneficiary charity for the 2025 MARS Badminton Horse Trials has been selected, and it’s a good one! Guide Dogs UK is “a charity, almost entirely funded by donations, and we are the world’s largest assistance dog organisation,” according to their website. “As world leaders in puppy socialisation and dog training, we’re the only organisation to breed and train guide dogs in the UK. We’re also the largest employer of specialists dedicated to helping children and young people overcome the challenges of sight loss.”
William Fox-Pitt will lead a course walk at Badminton next year (May 7-11) to raise funds for Guide Dogs UK. “Guide Dogs is an amazing cause, and that sense of connection and working as a team resonates very strongly with me. I’ll be at Badminton as a non-competitor this year, and I’m really looking forward to supporting them there,” he commented.
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News & Reading
The FEI World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses (WBFSH) Eventing World Championship for Young Horses may be in the rearview, but it’s never too late to look back at the experience of some special horses representing the U.S. in France. A total of six U.S. combinations competed at Le Lion, and the USEF has recapped the competition through the red, white and blue lens here.
The next generation of Phoenixes is rising! Jordan Phoenix has Olympic tenacity in her blood thanks to her super mum, Jessica Phoenix. Horse Sport caught up with this dynamic young lady and her partner in eventing, Patras VR.
Did you know Maryland Combined Training Association (MCTA) gives out grant money to members every year? To, reward MCTA’s consistent adult and junior volunteers, these grants help fund lessons, clinics, and educational opportunities. Every year, MCTA offers up to three grants of up to $500 each, and the deadline to apply for this year’s offerings is approaching on Friday, November 29. More information and the grant application can be found here.
Area IV is seeking nominations for its annual Young Riders Sportsmanship Award. This Award is aimed at riders who demonstrate qualities of true sportsmanship in all areas, consideration for fairness, ethics, and respect for team members or individuals. Nominees must be members of Area IV Young Riders, and the nominee can be a rider, spectator, groom, or anyone else who demonstrates integrity and dedication to creating a sportsman-like atmosphere within the sport of eventing. You can submit your nomination here by December 10.
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How Paul Mescal learned to ride horses for Gladiator II:
