Eventing Nation
Red on right, white on left, insanity in the middleSunday Links 31 Aug 2025, 12:53 am
It was a meeting of epic proportions took place recently at Michael Jung’s farm, where his two Olympic champion horses got together for a photo shoot. La Biosthetique Sam (Michael’s partner for the London in 2012 and Rio in 2016) and fischerChipmunk FRH (his Paris gold medalist) represent the success and consistency Michael has enjoyed, with three gold medals to his name to date. It seems that “Sam” is very much the boss in charge — deservedly so!
U.S. Weekend Events
USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final and ATC Finals (CA): [Website] [Digital Program] [Schedule] [Live Stream – Equine Network] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Kentucky Classique H.T. (KY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Bucks County Horse Park H.T. (PA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]
Silverwood Farm Fall H.T. (WI): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]
Equestrians’ Institute H.T. (WA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Larkin Hill Fall H.T. (NY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Links & Reading
From Video to Victory: Alliston and HMR Rolan Crowned #AEC2025 USEA Open Intermediate Champions
Cross-Country Concludes with Beginner Novice and Starter at #AEC2025
Pony Outpaces The Horses For Junior Novice AEC Title
Cleared For Take-Off: Teen Is Charting Her Course From The Start Box To The Cockpit
Video Break
How pro riders prep for show jumping!
Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands 29 Aug 2025, 11:01 pm
A new PSA has hit the airwaves in collaboration with We Ride Together, the Horse Person podcast, Fundamental Films and a host of creatives who brought the vision to life, shining a light on the burden that sexual abuse victims unfairly shoulder each and every day. It’s uncomfortable to think about, but imagine how uncomfortable (to vastly understate it) it must be for the victims of abuse to live in silence and shame. The PSA video serves as a strong reminder that abuse lives among us, and it’s up to each and every one of us to stand up to it and to listen to victims. We Ride Together has dedicated their existence to this mission, and you can learn more about them here.
U.S. Weekend Preview
USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final and ATC Finals (CA): [Website] [Digital Program] [Schedule] [Live Stream – Equine Network] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Kentucky Classique H.T. (KY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Bucks County Horse Park H.T. (PA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]
Silverwood Farm Fall H.T. (WI): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]
Equestrians’ Institute H.T. (WA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Larkin Hill Fall H.T. (NY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Links & Reading
Breaking The Silence: Marisa Metzger Brings Mental Health To The Forefront Of Equestrian Sport
First-class entries for Cornbury House Horse Trials
Learn How to Manage a Strong Mare With Steffen Peters
Boyd Martin is one of the most successful 4*-L riders and he’s entered for the Final
Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands
Freedom of movement + top-notch leg protection: you can’t always find both, but with Equilibrium’s Tri-Zone Allsport Boots, you don’t have to choose.
Video Break
Join Horse & Country for a catch-up with the top up and coming riders and young horses that are heading to Cornbury House Horse Trials 2025 in the hope of being crowned Howden Way National Age Group Champions.
Greengard and That’s Me Z Stay on Top After Cross Country in $60,000 Adequean USEA Advanced Final 29 Aug 2025, 7:40 pm
Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z. Photo by Lindsay Berreth/USEA.
The $60,000 Adequan USEA Advanced Final took to the cross-country track today at Galway Downs in beautiful Southern California. Riders tackled Clayton Fredericks’ expertly designed course, resulting in a few shakeups to the championship leaderboard as the competition heads into Saturday evening’s highly anticipated show jumping finale.
Tommy Greengard (Malibu, California) and That’s Me Z held onto their overnight lead, as the fastest trip of the division, picking up just 7.2 time penalties. They’ll head into tomorrow’s final day with a 36.8 and a sizeable cushion over second-placed Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14.
Greengard was quick to praise the 8-year-old Zangersheide gelding (Take A Chance On Me Z x Venetia), owned by himself and Andrea Pfeiffer. “We’re so proud of him,” he said with a smile. “You know, we’ve been joking. It’s his first Advanced. He’s been going at the four-star level, but this is his first Advanced!”
He also extended gratitude to the team behind the cross-country track. “Clayton Fredricks always does a beautiful job with the tracks out here. He and his team really make a huge effort to make sure the tracks are horse-friendly, well presented, and the ground is good. Thank you to [organizer] Robert [Kellerhouse] and Clayton and their whole team, because a lot of work went into this place to make it a good August in Temecula. So, that was the biggest thing that we were super appreciative of.”
Though heading into the final phase with the lead, Greengard remains grounded. “Tomorrow’s another day, and we’ll take it as we can. But we’re just so proud of the horse, and he’s only 8, and, you know, we’ll take it one day at a time.”
Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14. Photo by Lindsay Berreth/USEA.
North Bend, Washington’s Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14 moved up from third to take the runner-up position after accumulating 22.8 time penalties to finish their day on 53.1.
O’Neal, riding Annika Asling’s 11-year-old Westphalian gelding (Captain Jack x Zauberfee), was thrilled with the performance. “It felt amazing. He took me to everything. I was braver. I even left a stride out in one of my lines, which is not like me at all,” she said. “The balance was there. He listened; he was straight as he’s ever been. He can get a little crooked sometimes, but he was just straight and going. He felt focused and responsive, and all the training paid off.”
Looking ahead to the final phase, O’Neal is optimistic about their chances in the show jumping. “He is usually quite good. That used to be our spooky phase. He’s a good boy out there if I ride to plan.”
Molly Duda and Disco Traveler. Photo by Lindsay Berreth/USEA.
Less than a point behind O’Neal is Molly Duda (Menlo Park, California) and her own 16-year-old Swedish Warmblood gelding Disco Traveler (Donatelli x Cadence). They incurred 11 penalties after knocking a frangible pin at fence 15 and picked up 8 time penalties to head into show jumping with a 54.0.
Based with Tamie Smith just around the corner from Galway Downs, Duda was glad to compete at her “home venue,” even with the added pressure of a championship atmosphere. “It’s good. I mean, I think it feels very comfortable and familiar being here. But of course, with it being a championship, there’s added pressure, and the courses were quite strong. Those were serious championship courses. Definitely no joke!”
More AEC stories:
Three Winners Crowned in the Bates USEA Preliminary Championships at the #AEC2025
Modified Divisions Take the Spotlight at #AEC2025
USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final and ATC Finals (CA): [Website] [Digital Program] [Schedule] [Live Stream – Equine Network] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Friday News & Notes from Stable View 28 Aug 2025, 11:01 pm
Calling all creative equestrians! EQuerry / Co, a leading equestrian-focused marketing agency, is on the hunt for a Content Creator Intern (UK-based, remote) to join their team. This six-month internship offers hands-on experience across social media, campaign ideation, and digital storytelling — with plenty of opportunity to grow into a full-time role. If you’re passionate about horses, marketing, and bringing fresh ideas to life, applications close September 10.
U.S. Weekend Preview
USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final and ATC Finals (CA): [Website] [Digital Program] [Schedule] [Live Stream – Equine Network] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Kentucky Classique H.T. (KY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Bucks County Horse Park H.T. (PA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]
Silverwood Farm Fall H.T. (WI): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]
Equestrians’ Institute H.T. (WA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Larkin Hill Fall H.T. (NY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
News & Reading
Lots of action was on the slate yesterday at Galway Downs, the host of the USEA American Eventing Championships. Yesterday, the Training through Advanced competed over cross country while other divisions got underway with dressage. You can read a cross country recap here.
From heartbreak to bucket-list dreams: when Suz Harvey decided she couldn’t afford a made event horse, she bred her beloved “heart horse” mare, Poison Ivy, hoping for a willing, steady partner instead. That foal became Killian’s Irish Pearl, the homebred chestnut Suz raised, started, and trained herself. This spring, the pair’s second-place finish at Twin Rivers Spring International earned them a ticket to the AEC—and Suz couldn’t be more grateful for the journey. Read more about this special story here.
Five-star eventer and Grand Prix dressage rider Laine Ashker is a great pro to ask about how achieving the necessary balance required to navigate cross country courses directly translates to upper-level Grand Prix dressage movements. Laine breaks down the idea in this Practical Horseman column.
Sponsor Corner: Stable View
Stable View Oktoberfest is coming up quick! Don’t miss out on one of the best fall events of the season, featuring levels of competition for everyone, VIP tickets, daily Graze and Gaze get-togethers and much more. You can learn more about entering and attending here.
Video Break
Watch out world: Nox Martin is coming for your gold medals!
Greengard and That’s Me Z Take the Early Lead in the $60,000 Adequan USEA Advanced Final at the AEC 28 Aug 2025, 8:17 pm
Tommy Greengard and That’s Me Z. Photo by Lindsay Berreth / USEA.
The $60,000 Adequan USEA Advanced Final got underway today at the USEA American Eventing Championships presented by Nutrena Feeds at Galway Downs with riders putting their best foot forward in the dressage ring.
As the penultimate pair of the division, Malibu, California’s Tommy Greengard and Andrea Pfeiffer’s That’s Me Z, an 8-year-old Zangersheide gelding (Take a Chance on Me Z x Venetia), delivered a standout test. Scoring 70.45% from both the judge at B, Debbie Adams, and the judge at C, Robyn Fisher, they wrapped up the phase on a 29.6 to claim the overnight lead heading into tomorrow’s cross-country phase.
Of his test, Greengard noted, “he was really good. You know, he’s quite green. He’s only 8, so there’s definitely a point here and there that’s still there to be had. But I thought some of his extended gaits were the best he’s done in the ring, and I couldn’t be happier with what we’ve been focusing on. He really delivered, so that was great.”
Greengard enters this week on a hot streak after finishing third in the CCI4*-S at Rebecca Farm (Kalispell, Montana) and has a packed schedule at the AEC with seven horses to manage.
Looking ahead to cross-country, he commented: “I think it [the course] looks good. I think it’s really well presented. It’s very fair to the horses. There’s plenty to do. Clayton [Fredericks] always does a great job here.”
While That’s Me Z has already made his mark as a USEA Young Event Horse champion and Le Lion grant recipient, today’s performance shows just how promising this partnership continues to be heading into the top levels of the sport. After spending a significant portion of last year training in at New Zealand Olympians Tim and Jonelle Price’s yard in England, Greengard has more confidence in his partnerships. “It’s been a great year in terms of solidifying the partnership,” he said, “and a newfound confidence for myself, the horses and the team in general.”
For the first time in its history, the AEC has traveled to California, and Greengard couldn’t hide his enthusiasm about seeing the championship hosted in his home state. “I think it’s amazing,” he said. “You know, we’re so fortunate to have it on the West Coast. I’ve been lucky enough to drive out when it’s on the East Coast, but it certainly made it so a lot more of our clients and a much broader group of horses could come to this season. And I think [organizer] Robert [Kellerhouse] done an amazing job, and with the support of all the sponsors, they’ve been able to put together quite a nice event.”
Taren Hoffos and Regalla. Photo by Lindsay Berreth / USEA.
Sitting in second place is Ramona, California’s Taren Hoffos aboard Regalla, Carolyn Hoffos’ 14-year-old Oldenburg mare (Sir Donnerhall x Rubbiera). The pair earned a 30.2 in dressage to stay hot on the leaders’ heels heading into the second phase. Regalla is the only mare contesting this year’s Advanced Final, and Hoffos also sits in seventh place with her second mount, Master Class.
“Her test was great, I am thrilled,” said Hoffos. “She was very hot, and that’s not unusual. I am working with Hannah Sue Hollberg, and she has really helped me be brave about pushing her forward. Allow her to go. It’s really working for her. She likes that ride, and it actually calms her down. I was happy that I was, brave enough to do that in the arena today.”
On the AEC being in her home state, Taren said, “It’s incredible. We’re so lucky. I actually have made my late summer schedule around this. I just think it’s remarkable that it’s out here. And I knew that Robert and the team would put so much good work into everything. And they really have. The grounds look amazing, and the footing’s great, and the courses are top notch.”
Karen O’Neal and Clooney 14. Photo by Lindsay Berreth / USEA.
Karen O’Neal (North Bend, Washington) and Annika Asling’s 11-year-old Westphalian gelding Clooney 14 (Captain Jack x Zauberfee) are in third, just behind Hoffos, with a 30.3. “I feel like I was braver today,” O’Neal explained. “Tamie Smith has been helping me a little bit, and we’ve been experimenting, and I felt more trusting him today and able to show him off a little better.”
Of the cross-country phase tomorrow, she said, “The course is super well built, beautiful fences, lots of challenges; it’s going to make me ride hard and be accurate because it is pretty technical.”
O’Neal, who has competed at Galway Downs several times continued, “there are a lot of new things too that I haven’t jumped here which is kind of fun for me, so I’m looking forward to it!”
USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final and ATC Finals (CA): [Website] [Digital Program] [Schedule] [Live Stream – Equine Network] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Humans of Eventing: Stories from the Barn Aisles of the USEA American Eventing Championships at Galway Downs 28 Aug 2025, 7:58 pm
Here at the USEA American Eventing Championships, presented by Nutrena Feeds, it’s a full week of celebrating not just the professional high performance riders, but also the amateur riders who truly are the backbone of our sport. This week on EN, we’ll be highlighting some of our favorite pairs and their stories. Enjoy our first batch, and if you want to send us a tip for a great story, send it to us at tips@eventingnation.com.
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Close friends Jackie Braybrooke & Angie Leihy traveled to volunteer at the AEC from Australia and Maryland.
Angie Leihy & Jackie Braybrooke: Volunteer Gold Medalist A Long Way From Home
When Galway Downs confirmed their position as the host of the 2025 American Eventing Championships, it was a cause for celebration across the Midwest and West Coast eventing communities. With 12-plus-hour hauls to southern California seen as “only a day’s drive”, riders across the country prepared themselves for the journey. However, one pair of volunteers would prove to have some of the farthest journeys of all.
Angie Leihy came to Galway Downs from Maryland, where she is a regular presence at local events. “Carolyn McIntosh at the Maryland Horse Trials started the best place to volunteer on the planet,” she credits. “I’ve been volunteering all over Area II, sometimes in New York, sometimes in Florida — I go visit family and volunteer.”
Angie’s friend Jackie Braybrooke met her after moving to Virginia from California, where she’d previously volunteered at other local venues like Woodside and Twin Rivers. The two paired up to volunteer together across Area II, and stayed in touch after Jackie returned home to Australia two years ago.
“I have been jump judging and volunteering there [in Australia], and I’m also training to be an equestrian national-level steward,” said Jackie. “I was on holiday here and [Angie] told me about the American Eventing Championships, and I said, ‘I have to come, I have to come!’ I unfortunately can only do one day, but it’s been wonderful. You’re very well looked after here — a very well-run event. I feel very privileged.”
Angie jumped at the chance to volunteer on the other side of the country from her usual locale, and decided to make this vacation with Jackie a truly memorable one. “We always wanted to go to San Diego and I thought, ‘Well gee, the AEC is really close, let’s go!'”
Angie has far more to celebrate than just a beachy holiday however, as the AEC marks a huge achievement for her. “Tomorrow, I reach another level in the Volunteer Incentive Program: it’ll be the 2,000 hour mark.” The USEA will present Angie with her VIP Gold Medal and embroidered jacket tomorrow on cross-country day. “I got a bronze and a silver, but I’m going for gold tomorrow when I hit my 2,000 hours!”
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Long-time best friends Carrie Matteson and Sydni Cook with their horse Maestro de la Nuit.
Carrie Matteson & Sydni Cook: The Nation’s First Starter Horse “Syndicate”
We’re all familiar with syndicates for horse ownership in the upper levels of the sport, but have you ever seen one at the Starter level? When Carrie Matteson and Sydni Cook found Maestro de la Nuit — “the artist known as ‘Mochi’ to his fans” — they knew that he had the potential for dressage excellence, and decided to move forward in co-ownership as he began his competitive career in dressage. Thanks to Carrie’s trademark whimsical nature and carefree approach to life, Mochi’s ownership group was formed: the aptly-named “Wow. Cool Horse, LLC”, now complete with branded merch including hats, sweaters, and seltzer koozies.
Carrie serves as the secretary and “true brains behind the operation” of the organizing committee for the Event at Skyline, which hosts two of only three recognized events in the state of Utah every year. When she’s not spending countless hours running the ship in the show office or working towards the beginning stage of judge licensing with USDF’s L Program, she and Mochi often “take a jaunt” around the Starter level course at Skyline. For them, dressage is the world’s best job, but eventing is their hobby — even though they frequently bring home sub-20 scores in Amateur Starter divisions.
“We’re treating this as ‘Mochi Goes to College’,” said Carrie, referencing Mochi’s new account on Instagram. “He’s going to be famous among all his dressage friends as the classical dancer that dabbles in base jumping, or whatever the horse equivalent is.”
Sydni, on the other hand, is the head trainer at Winter Farms in Park City, Utah, vice president of the Utah Dressage Society, and a frequent dressage judge at Skyline’s unrecognized events each year. As Mochi and friends were driving through the desert to reach Galway Downs on Tuesday, The Dressage Foundation released the announcement that Sydni had just been named as the 2025 recipient of the $25,000 Debbie McDonald Fund for FEI Riders grant, which she will use to spend the winter in Florida training with coach Anne Gribbons.
“Really we just think he should get famous enough to meet Post Malone,” Sydni commented, referencing the pop/country artist’s recent move to their home area of Summit County. “He can ride him in a music video; Mochi is his biggest fan.”
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Matt Preysz, daughter Sloane, and OTTB Snifter’s Spirit after Sloane’s dressage test in the Novice Junior Championships at AEC.
Matt Preysz: Horse Show Dad and “Cheftokeep”
At GPH Equestrian from Lehi County, Utah, they don’t just have Horse Show Dads — they have a management team. Matt Preysz, husband to amateur eventer Kacie and dad to Sloane, who is riding in the Junior Novice Championships this weekend, has showed up and proved himself at enough events that he earned a promotion at Galway Downs this week.
Matt is known for his perfectly-timed boot shines, prowess with a hoof pick pre-cross-country, and his curated collection of dad shirts (pictured above in one of his favorites: “What part of [insert crazy dressage movements diagram] don’t you understand?). After his promotion to chef d’equipe “Cheftokeep”, he proceeded to use his new position to promote other members to his team, including son Junior Puppy Wrangler Brooks Preysz and Executive Brushing Assistant Jordan Erickson (dad to Emry, competing in the Beginner Novice Junior Championships).
Mostly though, the title just comes with motivational (and sometimes begrudgingly supportive) messages to the team’s group chat.
Matt’s text to the Team GPH group text the day they arrived at Galway Downs, when the temperatures were stifling in the high-90s.
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Jenna McEwan and Divine Smite. Photo by Sally Spickard.
A First Time AEC for a Newfound Eventer
When Los Angeles-based Jenna McEwan first met her former Irish racehorse, Divine Smite, her first instinct was to cross him off her list. The Thoroughbred gelding in a plain bay wrapper was for sale with pro 4* rider Kaylawna Smith-Cook, and he’d been spotted by pro photographer and former pro event rider Atalya Boytner, who passed the listing along to her longtime friend.
But Jenna balked.
“Atalya sent me the listing on Facebook, and I thought, ‘it’s a Thoroughbred — too fast, too young, everything I don’t want!’ And she said, ‘I really think you should go try him.’”
Jenna took her friend’s advice and didn’t regret it. “Oh my God, I love him,” she said to herself after that first ride.
It was a pure temperament match. Atalya could see that the gelding, now nicknamed “Cairo”, had “very good boy” energy, and knowing her friend needed a horse that would give her confidence to try new things or be a versatile partner for whatever she wanted to do, she made the match.
“I tried to hard to find something wrong,” Jenna laughs. “I thought the vet check would go wrong. I sent the videos to Deb Rosen and asked her to find something wrong. Instead, it all went perfectly. I thought Atalya was a crazy person, but she was spot on.”
Prior to teaming up with Cairo, Jenna had not done much eventing. Earlier this year, she brought Cairo out for their first events together at Galway Downs and Shepherd Ranch. After just a handful of events, the pair were qualified for the American Eventing Championships — but Jenna didn’t know about AEC until one of her students told her about it.
“I said, ‘What is that?’ It feels like a big deal thing that I didn’t even know existed. If you have the opportunity, why not do it?”
Now, Jenna and Cairo are here at Galway Downs and ready to tackle their first Championship together. It’s a sentimental journey for her after losing her father in 2022. After his death, when Jenna sold his home, she had some extra money left over, which was used toward the purchase of Cairo. “I had this extra money I wasn’t expecting, and I thought, ‘I’m going to buy a horse.’ To say he’s a present from my dad — I love that.”
At home in LA, Jenna and her business partner, Vivian Hall, own and operate Over the Moon Equestrian, a riding school born during COVID that focuses on accessible riding and inclusivity. “We put the kibosh on the ‘I show and you don’t’ attitude and any drama,” Jenna said. Finding a community within eventing has inspired her to cultivate that same culture within her own barn. “I found eventing to be so much more welcoming and inclusive. I am such a believer that there is space for everyone in horses, no matter what you want to do.”
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Stay tuned for more stories from USEA American Eventing Championships coming your way all week here on EN, and don’t forget to visit our coverage sponsor, Kentucky Performance Products, and thank them for their support of our stories from California!
USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final and ATC Finals (CA): [Website] [Digital Program] [Schedule] [Live Stream – Equine Network] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
US Equestrian Board Passes General Rule on Blood in Competition 28 Aug 2025, 8:00 am
The Board of US Equestrian approved amendments to two rules at its Aug. 26 board meeting dealing with blood on horses, hunter Channel II points, and mileage. Those changes are viewable here.
GR 843: Blood Rule
After additional adjustments and discussion following the mid-year board meeting, a change to GR 843 regarding blood on horses in competition has been passed.
The rule is intended to protect horse welfare while acknowledging that a variety of situations may result in the presence of blood on a horse. According to the updated rule, blood caused by the rider/handler or equipment requires the horse to be eliminated from the relevant class. The new rule language also states that the presence of blood on horses will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by a licensed judge or ground jury.
USEF recognizes that horses may sometimes bite their tongue or lips in the normal course of work. If minor blood is spotted in a horse’s mouth, the new rule allows the licensed judge or ground jury to rinse or wipe the horse’s mouth and permits the horse to continue if there is no further evidence of blood. If bleeding continues, the horse will be eliminated.
If a horse is eliminated during a class that is a qualifier for a championship or another class, they may compete in the championship if the bleeding issue is resolved. If a horse is eliminated in the work-off, a championship, or in a jump-off due to blood, they will be eliminated from that phase of the class and placed based on the score they had at the start of the work-off or jump-off round.
Each breed and discipline has its own chapter of USEF rules, separate from the General rules. If breed or discipline rules contain stricter language regarding blood in competition, or have additional requirements and provisions beyond this general rule, the more restrictive elements of the breed or discipline’s rules will take precedence. The General rule will take effect Dec. 1, 2025.
Please see this list of Frequently Asked Questions about the new general blood rule.
Thursday News & Notes from Virginia Horse Center Foundation 27 Aug 2025, 11:01 pm
Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.
A week from today, we’ll be officially underway at the 2025 Defender Burghley CCI5*! Will Ros Canter reign supreme again with Lorships Graffalo? Will Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent swoop in for the crown? Or will it be the turn of someone else to take home the winner’s spoils? We’ll have to stay tuned to find out! Be sure to book your tickets, sign up for Burghley TV and more here, and we’ll see you on the other side soon!
U.S. Weekend Preview
USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final and ATC Finals (CA): [Website] [Digital Program] [Schedule] [Live Stream – Equine Network] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Kentucky Classique H.T. (KY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Bucks County Horse Park H.T. (PA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]
Silverwood Farm Fall H.T. (WI): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]
Equestrians’ Institute H.T. (WA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Larkin Hill Fall H.T. (NY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
News & Reading
The USEA American Eventing Championships at Galway Downs kicked off yesterday with dressage for some divisions, which others will get underway today. We’ll have more stories from AEC coming your way beginning today (brought to you with support from our friends at Kentucky Performance Products!), but in the meantime, catch up on day one’s action here.
If you’re a young rider with big goals, show jumping legend Mclain Ward has some tips for you — and while he may come from a different discipline, his perspective is valuable for many. “The biggest challenge I see for riders making the leap from their young rider career to the top levels is in putting it all together,” he says. “In all sports, it’s one thing to be talented; it’s another thing to be less talented and hardworking, gritty and determined.” Wise words, indeed — read more here.
In any equestrian endeavor, it’s important to know how to celebrate the wins — even the smallest ones. If you’re like most riders, you probably get into the habit of picking apart the success you do have, but that can be a damaging mentality. The Plaid Horse checks in with some advice on celebrating the small wins here.
Sponsor Corner: Virginia Horse Center Foundation
Katherine Maroko and Redfield Champion. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the November edition of the Virginia Horse Center Eventing, coming October 30 – November 2! This event features FEI levels, including Long formats for the CCI1* and CCI2* levels, and a wonderful venue to close out your season and tick off some of those goals. Entries open September 16, and you can find more information about VHC’s calendar here.
Video Break
Scenes from day one at Galway Downs:
Canadian Event Rider Holly Jacks Claims Victory at Grand Prix 27 Aug 2025, 8:00 am
Holly Jacks and Magnolia AS. Photo by Laura Jarvis, Anglestone Events.
Canadian three-day event rider Holly Jacks captured top honors on August 16 in the $20,000 Grand Prix at the Ten Sixty Stables Gold Competition. Riding Josephine, her 2022 Royal Winter Fair Indoor Eventing Challenge champion, Jacks has successfully embraced the show jumping world this summer with a string of multi-talented horses.
Embracing an Alternative Path
Holly Jacks and Candy King. Photo by Tilly Berendt.
During the 2024 eventing season, Jacks’ World Equestrian Games partner, Candy King, sustained a serious stable injury. With upper-level eventing ambitions temporarily on hold and several promising young horses in her barn, she set her sights on Ontario’s Grand Prix show jumping circuit. Recognizing that success is not always linear, Jacks quickly adapted, channeling her competitive drive into new opportunities.
Josephine: From Eventing to Grand Prix
Holly Jacks and Josephine. Photo by Laura Jarvis, Anglestone Events.
Josephine, owned by Donna and Mike Van Beek, has been with Jacks since she was backed as a three-year-old in 2016. The third-generation homebred Arab/Appaloosa/Thoroughbred/Canadian Warmblood mare has excelled across multiple disciplines, eventing up to the 3-star level and winning the Indoor Eventing Showcase at The Royal. Under Jacks’ guidance since 2019, Josephine has now achieved her first Grand Prix victory. “This accomplishment shows the potential of North American-bred horses to succeed at the highest levels,” said Jacks. “And it was also fabulous to have a Grand Prix to attend at Ten Sixty with excellent prize money and course design, where she could shine with her incredible ride-ability and heart.”
Magnolia AS: A Rising Star in the Jumper Ring
Another standout in Jacks’ program is Magnolia AS, an agile grey Anglo-European mare owned in partnership with Julia Worden. Originally purchased as a six-year-old eventing prospect, Magnolia transitioned seamlessly into show jumping. In just two years, she progressed from 0.9m to the 1.40m Grand Prix level. “She was a little tricky when we got her and I started her at a lot of schooling venues, many of which were focused on show jumping,” Jacks explained. “With the support of her dedicated owner and guidance from my coach and mentor, Margie Gayford, I never imagined producing a horse for the 1.40m Grand Prix. But with this team, I’m here—and I love it!” Magnolia recently placed 4th at the Ten Sixty Grand Prix and has been a consistent competitor in 1.40m classes at Angelstone and Caledon Equestrian this summer.
Passion for Eventing Remains Strong
Holly Jacks and Josephine. Photo by Ben Radvanyi.
Despite her foray into show jumping, Jacks’ passion for eventing remains strong. “Even though I’ve competed up through the 5-star level and on the Canadian team, my professional goal has always been to develop versatile horses across disciplines,” she shared. “I’m fortunate to work with owners who allow their horses to shine where they excel most.” Reflecting on her past: “I had some show jumping experience from my time spent working with Frankie and Alan Chesler as well at King Ridge farms for Hugh Graeme, and it’s exciting to have an opportunity to work on my show jumping and refine my skills again.”
Looking forward, Jacks emphasized balance: “I haven’t changed my career path, but I’m enjoying both eventing and show jumping. My goal is to build and maintain a string of top-level eventers and jumpers. I want to thank the Holly Jacks’ Equestrian team at home, along with my assistant trainer, Cassandre Leblanc, and Margie Gayford, for their tireless support this season.”
Balancing her eventing roots with exciting new show jumping opportunities, Jacks continues to demonstrate the adaptability and determination that define her career. With strong support from her team and owners, she looks ahead to future success in both national and international arenas.
Wednesday News & Notes from Maryland Horse Trials 26 Aug 2025, 11:01 pm
Last weekend marked a very special occasion for our own Amanda Chance, who’s been relentlessly stalking following Will Faudree’s 5* horse, Mama’s Magic Way, due to the shared sire (Mighty Magic) with her own Preliminary horse, Like Magic WTW. The “magic” finally happened at Bouckaert Farm and it’s safe to say it’s a love story (baby just say yes).
U.S. Weekend Preview
USEA AEC, $60,000 Adequan Advanced Final and ATC Finals (CA): [Website] [Digital Program] [Schedule] [Live Stream – Equine Network] [Live Stream – H&C+] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Kentucky Classique H.T. (KY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Seneca Valley Pony Club H.T. (MD): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Bucks County Horse Park H.T. (PA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]
Silverwood Farm Fall H.T. (WI): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]
Equestrians’ Institute H.T. (WA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Larkin Hill Fall H.T. (NY): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
News & Reading
As USEA American Eventing Championships kicks off today, let’s tune in for some Fast Facts about the field that’s gathered at Galway Downs to compete for $100,000 in prizes and purses. Read more here.
From severe neglect to thriving in the eventing world: you won’t want to miss the story of Ghost, a palomino Tennessee Walking Horse who found his way to rescue not once, but twice before landing with Jenn Wieckowski and her 10-year-old daughter Lizzie. Don’t miss the heart-warming story here.
Horses aren’t just partners in the arena—they’re also helping children find their voices. A new pilot program in Ohio is showing how equine-assisted therapy can boost confidence and improve speech and language skills for kids with communication challenges. Read more about it on Horse Nation here.
Sponsor Corner: Maryland Horse Trials
Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.
Attention 5* riders! Don’t miss your chance to apply for the 2025 International Riders Travel Grant Program, designed to help bring the world’s best horses and riders to the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory. Applications must be submitted by September 1, 2025, with funds allocated no later than September 17 to offset transportation costs. Eligible athletes traveling 1,000+ miles—U.S. or international—are encouraged to apply.
Make sure your application (including a travel budget) is in before the deadline and join us this October in Cecil County for one of just seven CCI5* events in the world! Click here for more information and to submit your application.
Video Break
We talk a lot about rider posture, but what about our horses’ posture? Find out what this could be telling you in the latest Ride iQ Ask an Expert with Shelley Thomas:
Nominations Now Open for 2025 Horse & Hound Awards 26 Aug 2025, 8:00 am
Becky Moody and Jagerbomb, winner of the Dressage Horse of the Year at last year’s Horse & Hound Awards. Credit: Peter Nixon/Horse & Hound
Nominations are now open for the Horse & Hound Awards 2025 in partnership with NAF and Agria.
This year marks the 10th edition of these awards; Nick Skelton was our first Lifetime Achievement winner back in 2016, the year he won individual gold at the Rio Olympics. The awards have grown every year and in 2024, over 107,000 votes were cast.
Once again, the awards will be presented at a glittering ceremony at Dallas Burston Polo Club in Warwickshire, where some 300 people – including top riders from the European Championships – will gather on 26 November for a glamorous evening of champagne, winner reveals, Oscars-style speeches and dancing.
Last year’s winners included William Fox-Pitt (Lifetime Achievement), Jagerbomb (Dressage Horse of the Year), Olli Fletcher (Young Rider of the Year) and Mulberry Lane (Show Horse Of the Year).
H&H Editor-in-Chief Sarah Jenkins said: “We’re thrilled to celebrate the 10th Horse & Hound Awards in November this year and grateful to our partners NAF and Agria, as well as all the individual category award sponsors.
“The awards is always a special night when we honour both the visible heroes of the year – those who collected medals, rosettes and sashes – and those behind the scenes who contribute to others’ success, make it possible for people to enjoy riding or keep our precious horses on the road.
“Please do take a moment to nominate for this year’s awards, whether you want us to recognise a big star, someone who has helped you or a special person with an inspirational story. We look forward to receiving your nominations and sharing the shortlists with you.”
Nominations close at 5pm on 23 September and can be made at horseandhound.co.uk/awards
The short-lists for voting will be unveiled in our 23 October issue, with voting closing on 30 October. The awards report will run in 4 December issue.
The Horse & Hound Awards 2025 categories are:
- Horse & Hound Lifetime Achievement
- Dressage Horse of the Year
- Hit Air Event Horse of the Year
- Showjumping Horse of the Year
- Show Horse of the Year
- Zoetis Professional Rider of the Year
- Amateur Rider of the Year
- Absorbine Groom of the Year
- NAF Five Star PROFEET Farrier of the Year
- Baileys Horse Feeds Vet of the Year
- Inspiration of the Year
- Young Rider of the Year
- SPILLERS Horse Feeds Pony of the Year
- Horse & Hound Podcast Unsung Hero of the Year
- Agria Horse of a Lifetime
Tuesday News & Notes from Kentucky Performance Products 25 Aug 2025, 11:01 pm
We can’t get enough of this #goeventing moment displayed on course at Wellington Horse Trials in the UK this weekend, where Harry Meade and Tim Price shared a casual hello while passing each other on cross country. Unsure we’d advise trying this at home, kids, but we love to see it!
U.S. Events Opening Entries Today
Morven Park Fall International & H.T. (VA); Poplar Place Farm October H.T. (GA); Pine Hill Fall H.T. (TX); Redefined Equestrian H.T. (CO); The Event at Isaacks Ranch (NM)
U.S. Events Closing Entries Today
The Fork at Tryon (NC); Otter Creek Fall H.T. (WI); Aspen Farm H.T. (WA); Flying Cross Farm H.T. (KY); The Event at Skyline (UT); GMHA September H.T. (VT); Marlborough H.T. (MD)
News & Reading
The Defender Burghley cross country course preview is here! Make sure you’re signed up for Burghley TV (which gives you full access to the full live stream and replays as well as archives) and then head on over to dive on in to Derek di Grazia’s track. The course has been reversed for the first time in nearly a decade, so we’re in for a totally different look and feel than we’ve been used to. You can sign in or learn more about Burghley TV here.
Let’s talk about the concept of self-carriage. In her latest column, Horse Nation‘s Gwyneth McPherson discusses the concept, and how it can be interpreted in or referred to in different ways – it’s an interesting read, and you can dive in here.
With it being AEC week at Galway Downs, we’ve got more content for you to preview a busy weekend of national championship action. Listen to the latest USEA Podcast with host Nicole Brown, USEA President Lou Leslie and CEO Rob Burk here, and learn some fast facts about the Adult Team Challenge Championships portion of the competition here.
Sponsor Corner: Kentucky Performance Products
When it comes to maintaining your horse’s health and performance, vitamin E plays a starring role. It’s essential for strong muscles, sharp nerves, and a resilient immune system—but most horses don’t get enough from hay or winter pasture alone. That’s where Kentucky Performance Products’ Elevate® Maintenance Powder comes in.
Formulated with a highly bioavailable source of natural vitamin E, Elevate helps combat oxidative stress and supports horses of all ages—from growing youngsters to hard-working athletes and beloved seniors. Because it contains no other vitamins or minerals, you can safely adjust the amount to meet your horse’s specific needs without risking imbalances.
Simple, effective, and affordable, Elevate is an easy way to give your horse the antioxidant protection they deserve. Click here to learn more about Elevate.
Video Break
Miss Lulu Herself has a new rider! The super mare owned by Bonnie Stedt who’s gone 4* with Boyd Martin, gave Boyd’s oldest son, Nox, a ride recently and we think it’s a match made in heaven!
Weekend Winners: Huntington Farm, Bouckaert Equestrian, & Hunter’s Run 25 Aug 2025, 11:30 am
Hello, Eventing Nation! We’re enjoying the start to this week celebrating our Weekend Winners!
It was a small, but mighty weekend, with great events running at Huntington Farm, Bouckaert Equestrian, and Hunter’s Run. We’re recapping this weekend here as we shout out so many successful pairs, with a special shout out to the winner of our Unofficial Low Score Award, Karl Slezak and SF Darc Justice, who scored a 21.7 in the Open Training B at Bouckaert!
Huntington Farm H.T. (VT): [Website][Scoring]
Open Preliminary: Rachael Gill and Chance for Love (44.8)
Open Modified: Max van der Schoot and Playing With Quarters (Andy) (36.8)
Open Training: Genevieve Clark and Ardeo Red Rover (35.1)
Junior Novice: Serafina Deldon and Prince Renan (32.2)
Open Novice: Katie Murphy and Grafik Opposition (30.1)
Junior Beginner Novice: Evelyn Murawski and Templewood (23.5)
Open Beginner Novice: Kaitlyn Yacobucci and Solar Strike (30.2)
Starter: Hayley Jean Farr and Excel Star Wildest Dreams (36.8)
Bouckaert Equestrian International H.T. (GA): [Website][Scoring]
CCI 3*S: Alyssa Phillips and Rockett 19 (26.9)
CCI 2*S: Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri (29.4)
CCI 1*S: Katie Malensek and Civento (34.0)
Advanced: Kim Severson and Cooley Corraghy Diamond (36.3)
Open Intermediate: Elle Choate and Paddrick (43.0)
Open Preliminary A: Sharon White and Arden Janeway (27.1)
Open Preliminary B: Karl Slezak and Hot Bobo (27.1)
Preliminary Rider: Sterling Pollard and Tinto (28.2)
Modified Rider: Willow Schwartz and RH Finnegan (30.9)
Open Modified: Katie Malensek and Valeska (25.8)
Open Training A: Karl Slezak and Hellboy (29.2)
Open Training B: Karl Slezak and SF Darc Justice (21.7)
Training Rider: Jorge Aguilar and Pats Jester (40.6)
Novice Rider: Sophia Hand and Fernhill THE WILD CARD (24.7)
Open Novice: Emeline Gilbert and Diakar (28.9)
Beginner Novice: Jo Elwood and Fernhill Armani (30.3)
Open Beginner Novice: Alexandra du Celliee Muller and Contraband RC (22.4)
Hunter’s Run H.T. (MI): [Website][Scoring]
Modified: Cora Severs and Cuervo (37.1)
Open Training: Reagan Richards and FE Sparkling Diamond (30.4)
Open Novice: Mackenzie Judkins and RDM Ring of Mercury (38.9)
Novice Rider: Jill Oliphant and Explorationist (26.3)
Open Beginner Novice: Miriam Kother and Weis Lilie (33.4)
Beginner Novice Rider: Deena Zaitounh and See My Tuxedo (27.5)
Starter STA: Megan Fuller and It’s All About Briggs (37.0)
Starter STB: Heidi Shade and Magic Merlin BTC (31.3)
Golds Galore for French Young Guns at FEI Eventing European Championships for Juniors/Young Riders 25 Aug 2025, 8:00 am
Team France reacts on the podium after winning team gold in juniors during FEI Eventing European Championship in Strzegom, Poland.
The FEI Eventing European Championships for Young Riders and Juniors 2025 in Strzegom (POL) highlighted the unpredictable nature of Eventing, with the jumping phases proving decisive in both the Young Riders and Juniors categories. This year the French proved to be a golden generation after collecting numerous podium finishes in both championships.
In the Junior competition, Team France claimed gold with an impressive final score of 91.2 which put them well ahead of Belgium, who finished on 114.2. Meanwhile, Spain—rarely seen on the podium in Eventing – were just a whisker behind, taking bronze with a score of 114.9.
The Young Rider Championships saw frequent changes to the leaderboard throughout the event, but once again France showcased their strength in the jumping phases to secure gold, finishing on 121 penalties. Ireland took silver with 123.4, and Great Britain claimed bronze on 130.0 penalties.
Juniors
Ella Howard and Marchwood enjoy their lap of honor.
The French squad sat in second place after the dressage phase, just behind Germany. However, after delivering fast and clear cross-country rounds, they entered the final jumping phase as overnight leaders. The cross-country course, designed by the world-renowned Marcin Konarski, rewarded bold and accurate riding.
The French team included Matis Cogniet, who also secured individual bronze on Vivendi Hero, and Tess Carrere on Graphit De Fay Z—both of whom completed the competition on their dressage scores. They were joined by Maxime Goutailler on Berlioz d’Ile and Rachel Weiler on Riviero, who summed up her team’s performance after a tense final phase: “It was so incredible, we were so nervous because we had not a lot of points in front of the other teams but we have done it, so we are so happy.”
On the individual podium, Ella Howard claimed gold after jumping a double clear on her 14-year-old KWPN gelding, Marchwood. Her final score of 28.1 edged ahead of Germany’s Pia Sophie Schreiber and Cliemann, who finished on 29.4. Matis Cogniet (FRA) also ended on 29.4 but took bronze, as Schreiber was closer to the optimum time in the jumping phase.
Speaking after her win, 17-year-old Howard said: “It’s amazing. I’m very lucky, this is my fourth time at a Championship and I would watch people win on the podium before so for it to be me, I can’t really believe it to be honest. My horse has been wonderful all week. He’s such a sweet horse in the stable and when he comes out, he just knows when to perform when it matters. He’s such a special horse and really deserves this win. I am still in Juniors so next year we will try and get here again.”
Young Riders
Heather Busch tastes victory with Crystal-Annabell.
The Young Riders Championship came down to a nail-biting finish. France climbed the ranks from fourth after dressage to take the top spot, thanks to strong cross-country and jumping performances over technically demanding and highly influential courses. They entered the jumping phase in second place behind Ireland, but after Ben Connors incurred two rails down, gold went to France.
The winning team was made up of Valentin Quittet Eslan on Casanova D’Ems, Verane Nicaud on Baron d’Etat, Alizée Bourguet on César des Hauts Crêts, and Paul Barret on Qualified by Van ‘T Huka.
Nicaud spoke on behalf of her victorious team: “I think we all feel really amazing and grateful for the team we had and the horses we had. We were dreaming about a medal but a gold on- it was exceptional. And it’s my last year so it’s especially exceptional. A lot of emotion from all of us and we have two medals—a team and individual—so I was really happy to compete with such great riders.”
The individual medals saw Germany’s Hannah Busch take gold aboard Crystall-Annabell, with Valentin Quittet Eslan (FRA) claiming silver on Casanova D’Ems, and Sophie Weening (NED) and Konan securing the bronze.
Strzegom has proven to be a lucky venue for Busch, who also won individual gold in the Junior Europeans here last year. In her first year as a Young Rider, she repeated the feat. Busch, riding the ever-reliable 14-year-old Crystall-Annabell, entered the final phase with a rail in hand. Though one pole did fall, she held her nerve to secure the title.
“I have no words to describe this because it is just such a surprise and I am so proud of my horse. She did such a wonderful job. I feel happiness and very grateful for having achieved everything I could achieve. My horse and my team and my family make it special- this whole community is just supporting one another. The last week was such a wonderful time.”
FEI Eventing European Championships for Juniors/Young Riders (Poland): [Website] [FEI Info Hub + Entries] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]
Monday News & Notes from Morven Park Fall International 24 Aug 2025, 11:01 pm
Tamie Smith and Crafty Don. Photo by Sherry Stewart.
It’s officially time for the USEA American Eventing Championships! This week, we’ll be on site at Galway Downs for the 2025 Championships, where hundreds of eventers from all over the country will compete for over $100,000 in prizes starting on Wednesday, August 27. If you’re planning to attend, you can see the full schedule of competition and parties here. Galway Downs is also offering two free public tours on competition days for equestrian enthusiasts who want to experience eventing for the first time; registration for these tours is free and can be found here. If you’re unable to join us in southern California, a live stream will be carried on both Equine Network as well as Horse & Country — you can find more information on the live feeds here.
U.S. Weekend Results
Huntington Farm H.T. (VT): [Website] [Scores]
Bouckaert Equestrian International H.T. (GA): [Website] [Scores]
Hunter’s Run H.T. (MI): [Website] [Scores]
Major International Events
Scone Palace International (Scotland): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]
FEI Eventing European Championships for Juniors/Young Riders (Poland): [Website] [FEI Info Hub + Entries] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]
News & Reading
In this month’s “Pressure Proof” column for the USEA, coach Daniel Stewart writes about the concept of using biofeedback to help manage and navigate fear in the saddle (and, let’s be honest, out of it!). We can develop the use of biofeedback in five stages, Daniel says, and he breaks those stages down for us here.
Don’t forget: there are many ways to support The Georgie Campbell Foundation at next weekend’s Defender Burghley! One way to do so is to check out the online auction that will run through September 10. Tons of great items are on offer for a great cause, and you can check out the auction site here. Also, if you’re planning to attend Burghley this year, there will be a guided course walk hosted by Jesse Campbell on Thursday, September 4 at 1 p.m. Tickets for the walk cost £20 and can be booked by emailing events@georgiecampbellfoundation.org.uk.
Speaking of Burghley, today we’ll finally see the reveal of Derek di Grazia’s refreshed cross country course via the official course preview video. Burghley will release the video at some point today, so be sure to keep an eye on their social media channels and website to be the first in the know.
Did you miss Horse Illustrated’s recent webinar with #supergroom Max Corcoran? If so, you can still view it here! Hear from Max on all types of topics centered around horsemanship and horse management, and we guarantee you’ll probably learn a new thing or two.
Sponsor Corner: Morven Park Fall International & H.T.
Photo by Erin Gilmore Photography.
History is about to be made in Leesburg. From October 9–12, Morven Park will host the inaugural US Equestrian Open of Eventing Final, offering a jaw-dropping $200,000 purse in the CCI4*-L—making it the richest event in the world outside of a 5* (and bigger than some of those, too!).
Elite international riders, future championship contenders in the USEF/USEA Developing Horse Championships, and FEI divisions from 1*-4* will make Morven Park the epicenter of global eventing this fall.
Admission is free with advance registration, or elevate your weekend with a VIP Tent Pass or tailgate spot for cross country. Thanks to sponsors like Mars Equestrian, Taylor, Harris Insurance Services, MAI Capital, Tribute Equine Nutrition, and more, the Home of Champions is setting a new standard for the sport. Information on general admission (free) registration, tailgates, VIP and more can be found here.
Video Break
Catch up with Elisa Wallace and Nodin the Mustang!
Collett is Crowned Queen of Scotland at Scone Palace International Horse Trials 24 Aug 2025, 1:35 pm
Laura Collett and London 52. Photo by Peter Nixon.
Laura Collett and London 52 have three Olympic medals and three CCI5* wins to their credit, but gained another crown this weekend by becoming the first winners of The Malcolm Group CCI4*-S class at the inaugural Scone Palace International Horse Trials.
Laura and London 52, who is owned by Karen Bartlett and Keith Scott, had been breathing down the necks of dressage and showjumping leaders Ros Canter and Izilot DHI throughout the event, sitting 0.2 penalties behind them in second. When Ros – Laura’s Paris Olympics gold medal-winning team-mate – picked up 0.4 of a showjumping time-fault for being just one second over the time allowed across country – Laura seized her chance. In a faultless cross-country performance round event director and course-designer Alec Lochore’s imaginative track, she and 16-year-old London cruised round to cross the finish line six seconds inside the time. They therefore leapfrogged ahead of Ros and Izilot and collected their 14th international victory.
Laura said: “I’ve been blown away by the event here at Scone Palace; everything has been phenomenal, which is a huge relief as this is “Dan’s” last run before the European Championships. It’s been the best preparation for him, and he loved performing in front of the enormous crowd.
“Dan felt great this week. He gets better and better with age. A couple of years ago, the water would have been a bogey fence for him, but he jumped in and out the best of my four horses. I’ll definitely be back here; it’s already on the calendar for next year.”
Ros said: “Izilot DHI has been an absolute pleasure this week. He’s been on form all year, so consistent and secure in all his work during every phase at every event. I feel like I’ve really found my way with him and he’s really matured.
“We’ve had a great but busy week at Scone. They’ve done a fantastic job for a first-time event, especially considering the infrastructure and the amount of people they’ve had through the door. The ground has been great, too. I take my hat off to the organisers. I was walking around and I thought ‘goodness me, how do they remember to organise absolutely everything’ – if I was an organiser I’d definitely forget to order the loos or something!”
Behind Laura and Ros in third place was another of Britain’s stars, Emily King, with Valmy Biats.
Jonelle Price and Capitaine De Hus Z. Photo by Peter Nixon.
Jonelle Price and David and Katherine Thomson’s Capitaine De Hus Z maintained their lead in The Malcolm Group CCI4*-L, despite finishing their showjumping round 0.4sec outside of the time. Their final score of 31.2, though, was enough to keep Tom Jackson and Hambro Sport Horses’ HH Moonwalk in second on 33.3.
“I was delighted with him across country, despite being a few seconds over,” Jonelle said. “He jumped super all the way around, though he got a little strong coming home, but that’s the nature of the beast. I was able to manage him and stay better on the clock. He’s a good jumper and coming into the showjumping ring on something like him is a nice feeling. Scone Palace has very much been the focus for him, but we’ll probably look for a five-star next. Myself, I’m heading to Wellington [in Hampshire] at 7.30am tomorrow morning!”
Emma Carmichael receiving her prize from Andrew Malcolm of sponsors The Malcolm Group. Photo by Peter Nixon.
An influential showjumping phase shuck up the results of The Malcolm Group CCI3*-L. Emma Carmichael and Joanna Craigs and Fiona Bell’s 14-year-old Tax Break, second after cross-country, produced a textbook jumping round inside the time, while section leaders, Alex Turnbull and Harelaw Wizard, rolled four, pushing them well down the leaderboard. This marked Emma’s first international victory.
“It’s a bit unexpected, to be honest, as we weren’t even sure if we were going to make it to Scone Palace,” Emma said. “I dislocated the C-joint in my shoulder three weeks ago and I probably shouldn’t be onboard as quickly as this. I’m all taped up at the minute, but it’s held together well this week.
“It was always the plan to get him [Tax Break] here, though. He’s done a few four-stars with me but we needed a CCI3*-L to get a CCI4*L qualification, and he’s knocked it out of the park.”
Tax Break was formerly ridden by Alice Picton-Jones, who competed him up to intermediate, and Emma bought him when Alice went to university.
Emma explained: “I thought he might be quite a nice horse to get going quickly because he’s a bit older. We got him in February and he’s gone from doing a couple of intermediates to jumping around three-and-four-star shorts – then winning here today.
“The cross-country is probably his best phase. He’s a real galloper; he’s so brave and is incredibly bold, straight and genuine. He fills me with confidence which allows me to ride positively. He’s a bigger, stronger horse than what I would normally go for, but he wants to do it and is very adjustable.”
Ros Canter aced the CCI2*-L aboard Kate James and Jo Needler’s eight-year-old Broadstone Lion Man, who was making his debut at this level. The pair stayed on their dressage score of 26 throughout.
“Leo” is a son of Billy Tudor bred by Amy Hawley.
“I really rate him,” said Ros. “Amy evented him until he was a six-year-old. I spotted him at a clinic and asked her if she would ever sell him as I really liked him. Funnily enough, he was for sale and I had two lovely owners who wanted to come in on a horse with me, so it all worked out well.
“He’s quite lazy, but once he’s going he’s off. He’s not idle all the way through his work, but he’s a bit of a teenage boy; he’s a bit hard to get out of bed!”
Scotland’s leading event rider Wills Oakden ensured the Perthshire locals were represented on the winner’s podium as he headed the CCI1* with David Kenwright’s Greystone Midnight Harmony.
Wills said: “I’ve had a fantastic weekend; I can’t thank the organising team and the Mansfield family enough for their hospitality. To have an event of this stature in our area is terrific. The volume of people who have come through the gates has been incredible. I hope everyone comes back next year.”
Riders from across the water dominated in the CCI2*P-S, with Ireland occupying three of the four top spots, only sandwiched by third-placed British rider Eva Bryant and Coolnaleen Rebel (36.7).
Molly Egan and Divine Fernando, fifth after the dressage on 35.1, were the only combination to finish inside the showjumping time. They bumped up a placing after the cross-country and a flawless clear later in the day advanced them into first place on a final score of 35.7. In second was Ireland’s Susan O’Brien and Ballinagore Aaron, just 0.2 of a penalty behind on 35.9.
The first Scone Palace International Horse Trials was acclaimed a huge success, with 27,500 spectators coming through the gates throughout the week and enjoying top-class sport in glorious sunshine.
Event director Alec Lochore said: “We’ve had a lot of very positive feedback. We’ve learnt an enormous amount about the venue, and there are many positives and, of course, some tweaks that will be made. It takes time to understand a new event site, and I’m immensely proud of what the whole team has delivered. We’ll learn, and hopefully we’ll do it bigger and better next year. The Mansfield family [who own Scone Palace] have taken a massive leap of faith in taking on the mantle of what was an enormously popular event [Blair Castle] and by investing in producing something really special here at Scone Palace.”
Scone Palace International (Scotland): [Website] [Scores] [Live Stream Replays]
Statement from Scone Palace International after Loss of Two Horses on Saturday 24 Aug 2025, 8:00 am
We’ve got some devastating news following yesterday’s competition at Scone Palace International in Scotland, where two horses have been lost after separate incidents. Neither loss was the result of a fence-related problem on cross country. The event released the following statement yesterday:
“It is with great sadness that we announce that Jump Start II, owned and ridden by Susan Young (GBR), was humanely euthanised as a result of an accident while competing in the CCI2*-L class at Scone Palace International Horse Trials, Perth, UK, this morning, August 23.
Jump Start II, a 16-year-old gelding, slipped and fell between fences 20a and 20b. He was immediately attended to and treated by two veterinarians on course. He was transported off-course by equine ambulance to the on-site veterinary treatment unit. Regrettably, after being X-rayed, he was found to have sustained an inoperable fracture to his shoulder.
Very sadly, a horse due to compete in a 90cm showjumping class also suffered a fatal injury in an isolated incident while waiting to jump. Storm Clara was being held by a connection of the competitor, was startled and got loose. The horse was treated by the veterinary team, was discovered to have sustained a catastrophic fracture, and had to be euthanised on humane grounds.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the connections of both horses.”
Sunday Links 23 Aug 2025, 11:01 pm
Kick off your Sunday with some European Championships memories from William Fox-Pitt, who won individual silver and team gold at the 2005 Championships with the great Tamarillo (fun fact: one of William’s teammates that year was the current U.S. chef d’equipe Leslie Law)! European Championships begin on September 18 at Blenheim in the Championships’ first return to Great Britain in a decade.
U.S. Weekend Events/strong>
Huntington Farm H.T. (VT): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer]
Bouckaert Equestrian International H.T. (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Hunter’s Run H.T. (MI): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]
Major International Events
Scone Palace International (Scotland): [Website] [Timing/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream]
FEI Eventing European Championships for Juniors/Young Riders (Poland): [Website] [FEI Info Hub + Entries] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream]
Links & Reading
Road to the AEC: Jeanne Carley Hopes the Third Time is the Charm with Shannondale Fionn
Top Scores and What it Takes to Win: the Eventing US Open Qualifiers So Far
Video Break
Take a walk around cross country for the FEI Eventing European Championships for Juniors and Young Riders, which is taking place this weekend in Poland:
(@shtstrzegom)Jonelle Price Does New Zealand Proud at Scone Palace International Horse Trials 23 Aug 2025, 4:00 pm
Jonelle Price and Capitaine De Hus Z. Photo by Peter Nixon.
New Zealand Olympic medallist Jonelle Price has maintained pole position in The Malcolm Group CCI4*-L after cross-country at Scone Palace International Horse Trials (August 21-24) on David and Katherine Thomson’s Capitaine De Hus Z.
Jonelle sped round the beautiful cross-country track in the grounds of Scone Palace and only collected 2.4 time-penalties, putting her on a score of 30.8 going into Sunday’s final showjumping phase.
“I had a lovely run on him,” said Jonelle. “Control has been a little bit of a thing with him and today has been a positive step in the right direction. He came home full of running. I’ve seen many happy rounds today.”
Britain’s Tom Jackson has held on to his second place with Hambro Sport Horses’ HH Moonwalk after adding 3.2 cross-country time-faults to his dressage mark of 30.1. And Jenny Caras (USA)’s clear inside the time on Jerry Hollis’s Somersby has whizzed her x places up the leaderboard to third on 35.1. Jenny was one of just three riders to remain on their dressage scores in this class; the others were Heidi Coy, fourth on MGH Jessica and Sam Ecroyd, now eighth with Mister Big Ears.
Alex Turnbull and Harelaw Wizard. Photo by Peter Nixon.
Alex Turnbull, 22, is in the lead on Charles Robson’s 18-year-old part-bred Clydesdale Harelaw Wizard in The Malcolm Group CCI3*-L after finishing inside the time to stay on her first-phase score of 29.5.
“He’s been working well in the lead up to Scone and he did a very good test, staying relaxed throughout. He’s an experienced horse and has done plenty at the higher levels, so my main aim was to keep him balanced and maintain that pace while being careful.
“The rail-ditch-rail combination was arguably the most challenging section; it was after a triple bar coming down a hill, and it really made me think.”
Alex is in her fourth year with Wizard: “He’s amazing across country; he knows his job inside out and totally loves it.”
Northumberland-based Emma Carmichael also jumped a clear round inside the time on Tax Break for second place going into showjumping with a mark of 33.2, while Japanese rider Kento Nagura is 0.5 of a penalty adrift in third on the highly experienced Vinci De La Vigne.
Ros Canter is in first place in two classes at this stage – the CCI2*-L after cross-country with Broadstone Lion Man and The Malcolm Group CCI4*-S after showjumping on Izilot DHI.
Broadstone Lion Man, who belongs to Jo Needler and Kate James, added nothing to his dressage mark of 26 to remain 2.2 penalties ahead of Canada’s Rebecca Howard (Dolmen Cooley), with Emma Lawton (GBR, Dinnarthall Sea King) third on 28.9.
It looked as though Ros might lose the lead in the CCI4*-S to her fellow British Olympic gold medallist Laura Collett when Izilot DHI, owned by Ros and Alex Moody, picked up 0.4 of a showjumping time-fault for exceeding the time allowed by just one second. Remarkably, however, Laura and the great London 52 did the same, and the pair stayed in their original positions, with Ros going into Sunday’s cross-country on 22.3 and Laura on 22.5, which should set the huge crowds enjoying the action at Scone Palace for a truly exciting finish to this class.
Both riders will be aware, though, of Emily King and Valmy Biats lurking in third on 25.2 and Tom McEwen – the third member of that gold medal-winning squad last summer in Paris – fourth with a mark of 26 on Brookfield Quality.
Wills Oakden received a dunking when he came off his CCI4*-L ride, Keep It Cooley in a water fence, but there was some compensation when he took the lead in the CCI1* after showjumping on Greystone Midnight Harmony from Eliza Bell and Ridgebarn Rummage. Ireland’s Molly Egan tops the pony CCI2* class going into cross-country on Divine Fernando.
As well as international eventing, there are two full days of British Showjumping classes at Scone Palace this weekend. A thrilling Malcolm Group Scone Palace Grand Prix commanded the attention of the crowds in the King’s Arena this afternoon.
Miles O’Donnell and Jackpot DS. Photo by Peter Nixon.
A 24-strong field was whittled down to a final handful who contested the jump-off. Eventer Tom McEwen, who has seven horses here at Scone Palace this week, was first to go on eight-year-old mare Kilcannon Mischief. The pair produced a seamless clear in a time of 50.67 and were tipped for victory until the last combination, Miles O’Donnell and his family’s 10-year-old Jackpot DS (Jack), pushed them into second after zipping round in 50.33.
“In show jumping there aren’t many shows that give you the chance to ride in front of such a big crowd,” said Miles, who lives just outside of Cupar. “The first round was technical and twisty, and the jump-off gave you options; you could go as tight and as fast as you wanted. I had to make sure I was just that little bit quicker than Tom!”
Jack was a relative late starter and has only recently found his stride as a jumper, as Miles explained: “We took a bit of a punt on him, actually; he didn’t start jumping until he was about eight. We had a slow start together but this year it’s all just clicked. He’s got the biggest heart of any horse I’ve ridden and he gives you his all; always 110%.”
Scone Palace International (Scotland): [Website] [Timing/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream]
Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands 22 Aug 2025, 11:01 pm
The road to Blenheim just got even more exciting for British Eventing members. With the Agria Blenheim International Horse Trials—featuring the Agria FEI European Championships—right around the corner, BE has teamed up with Subaru to offer one lucky member the ultimate VIP experience. From course walk insights to hospitality in the Subaru Pavilion, it’s a chance to see the stars of eventing in style on Friday September 19. Entries close on August 31 and can be submitted via your BE Member Rewards Hub. Don’t miss out!
U.S. Weekend Preview
Huntington Farm H.T. (VT): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer]
Bouckaert Equestrian International H.T. (GA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Hunter’s Run H.T. (MI): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]
Major International Events
Scone Palace International (Scotland): [Website] [Timing/Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Live Stream]
FEI Eventing European Championships for Juniors/Young Riders (Poland): [Website] [FEI Info Hub + Entries] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream]
Links & Reading
Scavenger Hunt at the 2025 Adams Horse Supply USEA Adult Team Championships
Manhattan Saddlery: A Tack Shop Outside Of Time
The Power of Energy in the Equine Diet
5 Functional Exercises to Improve Your Riding
Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands
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And because four-legged friends of all sizes deserve a cool-down, Equilibrium also makes a dog version of the Quick Chill sheet—perfect for your pup on those sweltering summer days.
Learn more at World Equestrian Brands here.
Video Break
Enjoy a lovely show jumping round from Boyd Martin and Miss Lulu Herself, complete with commentary from Nox Martin: