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Weekend Winners: MDHT, Woodside, Ocala, Apple Knoll, Miami Valley, & Middle Tennessee 7 Oct 2024, 1:30 pm

A big weekend, filled with 5* prep, Championships, and some impressively low scores… while we had plenty of sub-20 scores, no one could catch the winner of our Unofficial Low Score Award – MaryBeth Young and Juliette, who scored an EPIC 11.4 in the Senior Novice Rider division at Woodside.

Congrats to all on successful weekends! Enjoy our recap and Weekend Winners celebration here.

The Maryland H.T. + Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm (MD): [Website][Scoring]

5* CT: Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach Z (33.9)
4* Test B: Tim Bourke and Monbeg Libertine (47.9)
3* CT: Elsa Warble and FE Unlimited (31.7)
2* CT: Sharon White and Arden Augustus (33.0)
Open Intermediate: Ema Klugman and Chiraz (34.2)
Open Preliminary: Sharon White and Quizas (29.5)
Preliminary – Championships: Rylie Nelson and Galloway Sunrise (28.4)
Modified – Championships: Alexandra Wikstrom and Viking Navigator (35.4)
Open Modified: Alayna Newsome and Quality Dynamite (35.5)
Junior Training – Championships: Lillian Oakley and Hidden’s Clover (Clive) (37.0)
Open Training: Casey Poe and Balou Boy Z (27.8)
Training – Championships: Kendyl Tracy and Dublin ZR (22.2)
Training Rider: Rachael Livermore and Accuraat Z (24.2)
Junior Novice – Championships: Kendal Fansler and Curioso (26.1)
Novice – Championships: Meghan Fillius and Dress Blues (25.8)
Novice Rider: Curran Simpson and RF Cosmos (33.1)
Open Novice A: Daniel Clasing and Baby Balou (27.5)
Open Novice B: Leslie Lamb and I Prince Quayside (24.7)
Beginner Novice – Championships: Sarah Kane and Jamdolin (21.5)
Beginner Novice Rider A: Ainsley McFadyen and Dagda (32.1)
Beginner Novice Rider B: Kendall Doran and Cochise (22.4)
Junior Beginner Novice – Championships: Olivia Hicok and Huckleberry (20.6)
Open Beginner Novice: Daniel Clasing and Mr Nibs (25.0)
Junior Starter – Championships: Emma Briles and Pretty in Pink (32.0)
Starter: Elisabeth Davis and Saratoga Dream (25.0)
Starter – Championships: Lucy Leff and Amarillo (24.3)

Woodside Fall International (CA): [Website][Scoring]

CCI 4*S: Molly Duda and Disco Traveler (57.6)
CCI 3*S: Tamra Smith and Kynan (27.4)
CCI 2*S: Gabriella Ringer and Get Wild (23.4)
CCI 1*S: Amber Birtcil and Milagro (26.5)
Open Intermediate: Stephanie Goodman and Elwenda DP (44.6)
Open Preliminary: Jillian Mader and Coolrock Wacko Jacko (31.7)
Open Modified: James Alliston and Made by Leontine EB (18.8)
Junior Training Rider: Marilyn Schackner and Georgie Z (22.1)
Senior Training Rider: Cyndi Stainner and LH (26.9)
Training Amateur: Rhiannon Gorin and Monbeg Finnegan (31.2)
Open Training: Tamra Smith and Kareena K (22.6)
Junior Novice Rider: Michaela Smith and Cashmaker (21.7)
Senior Novice Rider: MaryBeth Young and Juliette (11.4)
Novice Amateur: Victoria Klein and Chosen One DF (29.4)
Open Novice: Haley Abbett and Nacho (30.6)
Junior Beginner Novice Rider: Savannah Galyean and Aces Hig (28.8)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider A: Fielding Neale and Meant To Bee (25.9)
Senior Beginner Novice Rider B: Katie McCaffrey and Cassini Royale (33.8)
Open Beginner Novice: Leah Yacoub Halperin and Check (18.1)
Junior Starter: Natalie Deitcher and FE Uncle Ben (26.4)
Open Starter: Ashley Cox and Zero Gravity (27.3)

Ocala Fall H.T. (FL): [Website][Scoring]

Advanced: Leslie Law and Lady Chatterley (47.5)
Intermediate Rider: Michelle Mercier and Shirsheen Fun For All (61.0)
Open Intermediate: Vanessa Stevenson and FE Black Ice (39.4)
Open Preliminary: Kyle Carter and Reddy For Raine (27.1)
Preliminary Horse: Jonathan Holling and Fernhill Esmerelda (30.3)
Preliminary Rider: Zach Ketelboeter and Liondrive (33.2)
Modified – Open: Zachary Brandt and Einar (26.8)
Modified – Rider: Declan Bast and Midnight Oil (27.7)
Junior Training Rider: Addison Borton and Way Too Marvelous BSR (31.4)
Senior Training Rider: Amanda Tilchin and My Nana Anna (23.9)
Open Training: Conor Rollins and Fernhill Splish Splash (31.4)
Training Horse: Kyle Carter and Redfield Nola (29.7)
Junior Novice Rider: Emmeline Tinsley and Delilah Z (27.8)
Novice Horse: Declan Bast and Flagmount’s Keen Ice (22.5)
Open Novice: Vanessa Stevenson and Fidelio (27.5)
Senior Novice Rider: Molly Adams and Cougar Crest (31.3)
Beginner Novice Rider: Priscilla Pignatelli and Dittos Gold En Fury (25.9)
Open Beginner Novice: Margaret Stocker and Smilla’s Sense of Snow (26.8)
Starter: Patricia Arnold and SE Heat Wave (26.7)

Apple Knoll Farm H.T. (MA): [Website][Scoring]

Training: Hannah Lowin and Infinity KH (63.6)
Novice: Carol Kozlowski and Elodon Zodiac (31.3)
Beginner Novice A: Hannah Lowin and Jonathan Swift (34.1)
Beginner Novice B: Michelle Levanitis and American Made (27.5)
Starter A: Ryleigh Doyle and Castleview Chief (29.7)
Starter B: Amy West and Carnivale King (30.9)

Miami Valley H.T. at Twin Towers (OH): [Website][Scoring]

MIAMI VALLEY HORSE TRIALS

What a beautiful day for Cross Country! Thank you to our competitors for making this a great show!

Posted by Miami Valley Equestrian Association on Sunday, October 6, 2024

Open Training: Lydia McKenzie and Gen Z (37.1)
Open Novice: Madelyn Long and Baila Morena (24.4)
Open Beginner Novice A: Kara Andrew and Bridge View (28.1)
Open Beginner Novice B: Nicola Tucker and Pandora (29.1)
Open Starter A: Kaylee Van Winkle and Core Conviction (26.0)
Open Starter B: Nadja Kotitschke and McGregor (30.7)
Open Tadpole: Julie Knott and sister janice (35.0)

Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (TN): [Website][Scoring]

Training A: Trisha Marullo and Wine Country (35.8)
Training B: Lucy Duff and Suzie Que (31.8)
Novice A: Erin Rush and HEC Enchanted One (28.6)
Novice B: Shelby Davis and Cooley Caviar (24.4)
Beginner Novice A: Jeri Bechard and Touch N Go (22.4)
Beginner Novice B: Megan Sergel and Dutchess (32.7)
Beginner Novice C: Chloe Harrington and Griffin (31.8)
Starter A: Mindy Kraft and Kraft’s Smokey Day (29.7)
Starter B: Paige Markel and Tinkerbelle (32.0)

Milestone Results for Top West Coast Horses and Riders at Woodside 7 Oct 2024, 11:00 am

The FEI competition at the 2024 Woodside Fall International on October 4-5 produced the first-ever win by Molly Duda and Disco Traveler at four-star, cemented the comeback by Tamie Smith and Kynan with their second victory in a month at three-star, and represented the third two-star win in a row by Gabriella Ringer and Get Wild as well as the fourth blue ribbon this season at either one-star or Modified by Amber Birtcil and Milagro.

Offering the final short-format FEI competition of the year in California in its final USEA-recognized event of the season with a 25 percent increase in FEI entries from 2023, The Horse Park at Woodside was the stage for moments that the eventing world may look back upon as having a significant impact on the future of some of the top West Coast horses and riders.

CCI4*-S: Duda and Disco Boogie to Four-Star Success

Molly Duda and Disco Traveler. Tina Fitch Photography

It’s been quite a journey for Duda and “Disco” to their first four-star victory. The 20-year-old rider and her 14-year-old bay Oldenburg gelding (Donatelli x Cadence) were in elite company when they made their CCI4*-S debut at Galway in Temecula, California, in March and finished second to Smith and Mai Baum (Loredano x Ramira), the previous year’s winner of the CCI5*-L in Kentucky. They then traveled to Kentucky to compete in the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S, followed by a stint overseas as part of the U.S. Eventing European Development Tour.

“Just getting the opportunity to be overseas and experience everything over there was invaluable,” Duda said. “Having the guidance from Tamie, too, over the past few months has been influential, and I just can’t wait to continue to grow and improve.”

The Horse Park at Woodside was the site of the first event Duda and Disco did together in May 2022 when they won at the Training level. On Saturday, they came into cross-country 0.1 points behind Sophia Click and Tarantino 54 (Quattro 7 x Los Argentina), and a quicker round with clear jumping gave them the four-star win with a finishing score of 57.6.

“It feels really good to see the results this weekend,” Duda said. “I think we’ve been working really hard this summer, and it’s always great to see the pieces come together. It also is incredible to think two years ago at Woodside we did our first ever event together at Training level, so it’s pretty unbelievable to be standing here today after winning the four-star.”

Their next target will be their first CCI4*-L at Galway starting on October 31.

CCI3*-S: Smith Keen on Kynan’s Future

Tamie Smith and Kynan. Tina Fitch Photography.

Smith and Kynan followed up their win in the CCI3*-S at the Twin Rivers Fall International in Paso Robles, California, last month with another victory at the level. The five-star-winning rider and the 9-year-old bay Dutch Warmblood gelding (Envoy x Danieta) led after each phase and produced one of just two double-clear cross-country rounds on the course designed by Derek di Grazia. They finished on their dressage score of 27.4.

“He’s been running at four-star level, but we took a step back and reevaluated everything, and sometimes you need to pump the breaks a little bit and figure out,” Smith said. “He’s come out this fall and feels like a different horse. He feels really confident, so I’m really excited to get moving. I did the three-star at Twin, thinking I was going to do the four-star here, and I said I don’t need to push him. I already know he can do it. I just want to see where I’m at. Derek designs both tracks [the CCI3*-S and CCI4*-S at Woodside], and they’re very challenging all the way through.”

Kynan has previously finished in the top-five in three four-stars—at Rebecca Farm in Montana, Twin Rivers, and Galway. Their win in the CCI3*-S at the Twin Rivers Fall International was their first competition in more than four months. Smith said Kynan will move back up to CCI4*-L at Galway where their competition will include Duda and Disco. Duda has been based with Smith in Temecula since returning from Europe.

“I’m coming in the latter of the development; Mickayla Howard really deserves the credit because she’s put all the foundation on Molly, but it’s been fun to be a part of the progression this last year,” Smith said. “It’s been awesome, and she rode fantastic, like it was a picture-perfect round. So, I was really proud of her.”
The other double-clear cross-country in Woodside’s CCI3*-S came from Smith’s other mount at the level, Lillet 3, the four-star-winning 8-year-old dark bay Holsteiner mare (S.I.E.C. Livello x Princess L) on whom Smith began competing this summer.

“It’s been really fun riding her and getting to know her,” Smith said. “She and I are still figuring each other out on the flat and in the show jumping, but on the cross-country, it’s just so right there. We’re both a hand in a glove on cross-country.”

Megan McIver, who rode three horses in the CCI3*-S at Woodside, finished second with the 12-year old grey Holsteiner mare Elle (Con Caletto). They won the CCI3*-L at Rebecca Farm in July.

CCI2*-S: Ringer Can ‘Get Wild’ about Get Wild’s Future

Gabriella Ringer and Get Wild. Tina Fitch Photography.

Ringer, who, like Duda, is 20 years old and a rising star in West Coast eventing, won her third two-star event in a row with Get Wild by leading after each phase and finishing on their dressage score of 23.4. That’s their best finishing score in their nine two-star competitions since March 2023. That was also the best across all of Woodside’s FEI levels.

“This was a great test for us with the terrain here at Woodside, and they provided a really nice big track,” Ringer said. “He went so well in all three phases producing one of the best scores we’ve had at the level and held it all the way to the end for the wire-to-wire win.”

The 12-year-old dark bay Dutch Warmblood gelding (Plot Blue x Cantana) and Ringer were the only pair out of 23 entries, the largest of Woodside’s FEI classes, to finish on their dressage score. There were just five double-clear rounds on William Robertson’s show jumping course and seven on Bert Wood’s two-star cross-country.
“Ace” and Ringer previously won the CCI2*-S at the Twin Rivers Fall International and the CCI2*-L at the Twin Rivers Spring International in 2024.

“He is the horse of a lifetime,” Ringer said. “Moving ahead to the rest of the season, I am looking forward to stepping him up to the Intermediate level at Ram Tap [in Fresno] and ending his season there, giving him some much-deserved time off.”

CCI1*-S: Milagro is Magnificent Again

Amber Birtcil and Milagro. Tina Fitch Photography.

Birtcil has developed a herd of promising young horses from the Netherlands through her Cellar Farm in Petaluma, California, and Milagro is proving to be a standout.
“He’s a little unassuming, like he’s a plain brown horse that doesn’t carry a lot of energy at home, but you take him to a show and he just has such a work ethic and way about him,” Birtcil said. “He really likes to go in and show. He knows the difference between ‘we’re showing’ and ‘we’re schooling.’ He just totally gets the sport, and it makes sense to him. He’s really fun to ride.”

Birtcil debuted the 7-year-old bay Dutch Warmblood gelding (Good Fellow VDL x Easter Uno M) at the Novice level in February. They’ve now collected five total blue ribbons in nine events. They won the Open Modified division at the Woodside Spring Horse Trials when The Horse Park hosted the Laughing Monk Modified Match to spotlight the level that has made a significant impact on the development of event horses and riders.

The Horse Park introduced one-star competition at last year’s Woodside Fall International. This year’s CCI1*-S represented Milagro’s first FEI win, as well as Birtcil’s first since the CCI4*-L at the 2021 Twin Rivers Spring International with Cinzano (Classe VDL x Walta). They were the only pair out of 11 entries to finish on their dressage score, winning with 26.5.

Notable National Results:

Stephanie Goodman and Elwenda DP (Westpoint x Wenderola), the winners of the CCI2*-S at the 2023 Woodside Fall International and victorious in the CCI2*-L at Rebecca Farm in 2024, won for the first time at the Intermediate level, the highest national level offered at the 2024 Woodside Fall International.

Jillian Mader finished first and second at the Preliminary level with Coolrock Wacko Jacko (Jacomar x Lux D) and Cooley Neptune (Beach Ball x Annaghmore Temptress).

The lowest finishing score of the weekend was 11.4 by MaryBeth Young and Juliette, an 11-year-old buckskin mare that is a Morgan and Dutch Harness Horse cross, to win the Senior Novice Rider division. Their dressage test included two 10.0 marks, as well as a 10.0 for their collective marks.

In 2025, The Horse Park at Woodside is scheduled to host the Woodside Spring Horse Trials from May 23-25, the Woodside Summer Horse Trials from August 9-10, and the Woodside Fall International from October 3-5.

Woodside Fall International (CA): [Website] [Results]

Champions Crowned at The Maryland Horse Trials Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm 7 Oct 2024, 8:30 am

Meghan Fillius of Powhatan, VA, rode Dress Blues to victory in the USEA Area II Novice Championships at Loch Moy Farm in Adamstown, MD. © Erin Gilmore Photography

Ten USEA Area II Champions were crowned Saturday on the second day of the The Maryland Horse Trials at Loch Moy Farm. A total of 350 horses from across the Area II region and beyond (PA, NJ, DE, MD, VA and NC) have gathered to celebrate the summer eventing season, having qualified to compete among the best of their peers; and are taking advantage of a luxurious premium facility to prepare for the upcoming Maryland CCI5* later in the month.

Saturday also hosted a one-day event for Open Intermediate, Preliminary, Modified and Training levels; while Sunday saw Novice, Beginner Novice and Starter take center stage.

Highlights from Saturday at the USEA Area II Championships

Alexandra Wikstrom of Clifton, VA, and Viking Navigator won the Modified Championship at the Maryland Horse Trials and USEA Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm. © Erin Gilmore

Many of Friday’s leaders were able to defend their positions and take the Championship title following Saturday’s show jumping phase of the competition. First to be awarded a winner’s sash was Rylie Nelson of Unionville, PA, with Fylicia Barr’s Galloway Sunrise, taking the Preliminary Championship on a final score of 28.4 penalties.

In the Modified Championship division, Alexandra Wikstrom of Clifton, VA, with her own Viking Navigator, or ‘Gunner’ in the barn, finished the weekend on a final score of 35.4, moving up from fourth after dressage to take the blue ribbon.

Wikstrom rides with Jan Byyny and Sally Spinard and admitted that while cross-country is generally their strongest phase, this weekend’s Championship courses designed by Great Britain’s Andy Heffernan, asked all the right questions.

“There were some questions out there that we have had some challenges with in the past, including bending lines to corners and some pretty skinny technical fences,” said Wikstrom. “But I think the whole course rode really well. The time was hard to get — we were the fastest in the division and even so we still had a few time penalties. I’m fortunate he’s an off the track thoroughbred (OTTB) which means he has a really big, open galloping stride, which helps me make the time.

“Show jumping today he was a little bit tired. We don’t often get the opportunity to practice show jumping after going cross-country, a lot of times we show jump first and then go cross-country. So I think it was really good practice especially as I’m aiming him for the CCI1* at Virginia in November. We had one rail down but I was lucky to have that in hand.”

Lillian Oakley, 17, of Pfafftown, NC, and Hidden’s Clover won the Junior Training Championship at the Maryland Horse Trials and USEA Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm. © Kira Topeka for Erin Gilmore Photography

In the Novice Championship division, Meghan Fillius of Powhatan, VA, and Dress Blues earned the blue sash and bragging rights, topping one of the largest divisions of the weekend. The pair finished on their dressage score of 25.8 penalties across the three phases — far surpassing their expectations for their first visit to Loch Moy Farm.

Fillius acquired the Virginia bred, 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse ‘Kieran’ as a five-year-old from friend and breeder Tracey Leftwich, of Fireman’s Run Farm. She calls him her Horse of a Lifetime, having taken him over his first jump and “God willing, I’ll take him over his last jump too!”

As a change from many eventers who fear and even dread the dressage arena, Fillius says Kieran has “embraced” dressage, having spent a lot of time learning how to carry his generous 17.2 frame in second level dressage and more. With a brave and steady cross-country round Friday, on a course that was “made for him,” they just had to hold on through Saturday’s stadium to seal the deal.

“I was a little nervous coming into stadium,” admitted Fillius, “Because he’s not always the most careful when the jumps seem a little less intimidating, and because he’s 17.2 it takes a lot for him to really feel like he’s working! When he came in today and just lit right up and jumped clean, I was beyond thrilled.”

Like many adult amateur riders, Fillius says it’s hard fitting in work, riding and family time these days. “Balancing the horse and family life is tough. I don’t get to ride as much as I would like, but luckily I have a phenomenal coach in Emily Beshear and she’s helped me come up with a plan to help me maximize the time I do get to spend on his back to really get the most out of our performances. We’re hoping to continue on to Training level next year, but honestly I know with horses you have to take things day by day. You can’t take anything for granted and I know that every single ride I have with him is a gift.”

Lillian Oakley, 17, of Pfafftown, NC, took the Junior Training Championship title with Michelle Hargreaves’ Hidden’s Clover. The pair sat in third place after cross-country and laid down a solid double-clean show jumping round Saturday to finish on a three-phase cumulative score of 37.0.

Imported 18 months ago, six-year-old Irish Sport Horse “Clive” has been hard at work preparing with Oakley for their Pony Club B-Rating next weekend and used the Area II Championships as a big push toward that. Their positive outing included a best-ever dressage score, a confidence-building cross-country round (Clive gets nervous in the warm-up) and solid double-clean in show-jumping.

In the National (non-Championship) divisions, Ema Klugman and Chiraz won the Open Intermediate. © Hannah Lujbli for Erin Gilmore Photography.

With a youthful eye toward someday representing her country at the Olympics, Oakley admits bringing a green horse along has been a steep but rewarding learning curve.

“When Clive came to us he only had four months under saddle with no cross-country experience,” explained Oakley. “That was a real learning experience for me. I’ve ridden a horse that’s campaigned at the two star level — I’ve never had to teach a horse before. Having to teach him the water, and how to understand cross-country questions has definitely made me a better rider.”

In addition to the USEA Area II Championships, Loch Moy Farm is also hosting The Maryland Horse Trials #3 recognized National Divisons as two one-day-events (where all three phases are completed on the same day.) Open Intermediate, Preliminary, Training and Modified took place on Saturday with Novice, Beginner Novice and Starter taking place Sunday.

Ema Klugman, representing Australia but based in Germantown, MD, won the Open Intermediate division with the Chiraz Syndicate’s Chiraz. In a group which saw time penalties on cross-country from every rider in the group, the pair added just six time penalties on cross-country to their combined dressage and stadium jumping score to finish on 34.2 penalties.

As a preparation run ahead of the upcoming CCI3* held during the Maryland CCI5* in a few weeks, Klugman admits she didn’t wear a watch to keep time on cross-country Saturday, preferring to “play around” with how Chiraz was going and to get him in the best mental place at the moment.

“Chiraz has actually done some advanced level events so this was intended to be a nice confidence building outing for him which this was,” explained Klugman. “He was great in dressage, he can be a little nervous traditionally but he has come a long way and he’s getting a lot more relaxed.

“He show-jumped very well but had a bit of a spook at something outside the ring while on course, causing me to lose my stirrup. We had to hustle to make the time allowed.”

Kendal Fansler (Clarksville, MD) rode Jaclyn Whitaker’s Curioso to the USEA Area II Junior Novice Championship at Loch Moy Farm. © Erin Gilmore Photography

Klugman was particularly impressed with this year’s cross-country course noting “(Loch Moy) is a hard place to design for, as there’s not a huge amount of space, so it sometimes goes back and forth a little. This year’s course was one of the best we’ve had here, with a really nice flow. There were plenty of terrain questions and Chiraz handled them all really well.”

Each rider we spoke with took the time to mention the quality of venue, arenas and in particular the footing at Loch Moy. Said Klugman: “The footing on cross-country was fabulous. I was a little worried because it’s been raining for about two weeks straight but the footing turned out to be really ideal.”

The Maryland H.T. + Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm (MD): [Website] [Results]

Monday News & Notes from FutureTrack 7 Oct 2024, 7:25 am


How cool is this? Last month, fan faves Sydney Elliott and the tall, dark, and handsome QC Diamantaire were inducted into the Northwest Louisiana Walk of Stars — an unusual honour for a horse, and an everlasting symbol of how much Louisiana roots for its own. It’s almost as unusual for a woman to be inducted as it is a horse: Sydney is now one of less than a handful of female inductees, and hopefully, we’ll see a lot more to come, both in NW Louisiana and across walks of fame worldwide.

U.S. Weekend Action:

The Maryland H.T. + Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm (MD): [Website] [Results]

Woodside Fall International (CA): [Website] [Results]

Ocala Fall H.T. (FL): [Website] [Results]

Apple Knoll Farm H.T. (MA): [Website] [Results]

Miami Valley H.T. at Twin Towers (OH): [Website] [Results]

Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (TN): [Website] [Results]

Your Monday Reading List:

Monday’s always a tricky one to get rolling in the right way, so let’s start with some nice stuff. Like the marriage of a British five-star rider and much-loved trainer, who emerged from her nuptials to find her little army of Pony Clubbers waiting for her in their riding kit, ready to celebrate (with polished paddock boots, of course).

Okay, a show of hands: how many of us are feeling a bit geriatric? I’m 33 now, and while I’m aware that that’s still a baby in the grand scheme of things, it’s definitely heading into the ‘ought to know better’ age, and most days, I kind of think I’ve got a few things figured out. Some days, though, I feel like I’ve just been born, and I’m blinking in the bright lights wondering what on earth is happening. So I enjoyed Lauren Sprieser’s reflections on turning 40 and what she’s learned along the way. It’s nice that in life, as in horses, you never stop learning — so it never stops being interesting.

Right, I reckon we’re all ready to engage our brains fully, now. So let’s move on to musings on horse training — and how it’s not just about muscle memory or movements, but about establishing mental patterns and relationships. This is an interesting piece for you to read this morning and ponder today while you’re working with your own horse.

And finally, big brain thinking time. Padded underwear: do you need it? Look, maybe the cycling enthusiasts are onto something here, and maybe this is the missing link you need to finally be able to convincingly sit the trot. Find out with this in-depth review.

Morning Viewing:

Wild mustang? Not anymore. Join Elisa Wallace and Zephyr as they tackle a schooling show.

Navigating Pregnancy and Raising Kids as an Equestrian 6 Oct 2024, 9:00 am

One of the great prides of modern equestrian sport is that men and women compete against each other on equal footing. There are no women’s divisions or men’s divisions, because there is an understanding that women and men are equally able to ride and train horses.

Yet it took almost 60 years for the individual eventing Olympic gold medal to be won by a female rider. Lana DuPont became the first female eventing Olympian ever when she rode in the 1964 Tokyo Games. Fifty-seven years later, Julia Krajewski won the individual gold medal at the 2021 Olympic Games, which was—somewhat fittingly—also held in Tokyo.

Why did it take almost six decades for a woman to become the Olympic champion in eventing? The answer might lie in the fact that it is hard for women to balance their athletic careers with having children. Pregnancy and raising kids require taking time away from the sport, although the amount of time female athletes spend away varies depending on their preferences and circumstances. I have known women equestrians who have lost sponsors and owners as a result of their decision to have children. I have never heard of a male rider who decided to have children losing sponsors for that reason.

We now have some amazing role models in the sport for women riders who are also mothers. World Number 1 Ros Canter, former World Number 2 Jonelle Price, and countless others seem to be able to balance it all. There is no blueprint or manual for how to make it all work, but there do seem to be many examples nowadays of women riders at the top of their game with children proudly by their sides.

Ride iQ’s podcast series “Equestrian Mama” delves into the challenges of pregnancy and motherhood for riders. The podcast is hosted by dressage rider Lucy Courchaine, who explores a number of different topics across four rich, honest, and fascinating episodes. Lucy is a Grand Prix dressage competitor and USDF Gold, Silver & Bronze medalist based in New England.

The first episode covers navigating one’s first pregnancy. Lucy talks about her own first pregnancy, and the push and pull of preparing to be a mother and running her dressage training business. One of the things that struck me about listening to this episode was how frank Lucy was about the feelings of aloneness and panic she experienced when she was pregnant for the first time. How would she be able to keep her business going while pregnant, and then after having her baby? What would her systems look like? There were many unknowns, but Lucy relied on her friends for advice and support. They assured her that she could continue to ride while pregnant if she wanted to, and that her clients would likely be supportive of her exciting news. They were, and she realized that she could indeed fit in this new, life-changing thing into her life as an equestrian. She restructured her barn slightly and decided to hire some additional help, but she largely kept her business model the same. Finally, Lucy describes a new level of strength she discovered while going through her first pregnancy, and how that strength has made her even more committed as a dressage trainer.

Photo courtesy of Ride iQ.

The second episode of Equestrian Mama features a guest speaker, OBGYN Dr. Kathleen Bertuna, who talks about riding while pregnant and postpartum recovery. The overarching theme of this episode was that every person is an individual and thus will have different levels of comfort with riding while pregnant and after having a baby. Dr. Bertuna expertly walks listeners through the varying levels of risk that come with different stages of pregnancy. For example, in the first twelve weeks of pregnancy, the pregnancy is still very protected by the pelvis, but after about 14 weeks, it comes above the pelvic rim, which tends to bring more risk. After about 20 weeks, an expecting mother’s center of gravity begins to shift forward, which can cause balance issues when riding. What is great about this episode is that it gives listeners information, but it does not say that you have to do anything a certain way, or stop riding at a certain point. Both Dr. Bertuna and Lucy Courchaine emphasize that horses are important for our mental health, and that time with horses doesn’t necessarily have to be spent in the saddle. Thus, if you are not comfortable with the risk of riding while pregnant, particularly later in your pregnancy, you can still spend time on the ground with your horse and use the barn as a mental outlet.

Dr. Bertuna also discusses getting back into the saddle after having a baby, which she emphasizes will feel very different to how you felt before the pregnancy. The recovery is different depending on whether one has had a vaginal birth or a C-section, and the time it takes to heal from either type of birth also varies tremendously among women. Thus, Lucy stresses that it’s important to listen to your body to feel when you are comfortable riding again, and that it’s okay to not be a hero. Finally, Dr. Bertuna touches upon the challenges of postpartum depression and the importance of seeking treatment and asking for help. This episode was incredibly informative because it wove anecdotal knowledge and expert scientific findings together.

In the third episode, Lucy Courchaine shares her own postpartum experience. She describes her first postpartum experience as being much harder than her actual pregnancy. “You can feel it’s the most terrible time and the most wonderful time all at the same time,” Lucy says. She was not initially diagnosed with postpartum depression, but when she was, it all made sense. She had feelings of hopelessness and a lack of control, but with treatment and time, she recovered. Going to the barn and seeing the horses brought her joy and aided her mental recovery. Although she described feeling useless in the barn at first, she slowly got back into a routine and was able to ride and teach again. Lucy also shares practical tips, like types of strollers and carriers that she used for her baby in the barn, as well as finding that a bassinet parked next to the arena was a great option for her particular baby. Although her systems are still evolving, she has found that being flexible and communicating with her clients about her schedule are important to continue running her dressage training business.

Photo courtesy of Ride iQ.

The fourth and final episode of Equestrian Mama features Taryn Young, who founded the equestrian brand Novella and is also a bronze, silver, and gold USDF medalist. Both Taryn and podcast host Lucy have toddlers, and they are both in their second pregnancies. They share their experiences with their first pregnancies, and how they have learned lessons that they are applying to their second pregnancies. Taryn emphasizes how she wanted to stay involved with horses as much as possible, and get back to riding and competing as soon as possible. Part of the reason for this was her desire for her kids to see her doing what she loves. “A happy mom is the best kind of mom,” Lucy adds, noting that mental health is a huge part of the picture of motherhood. Having kids has also changed their mindsets around training and competing. Taryn cites a particular instance in which she had what she described as “a disaster test” when she and her horse had lots mistakes. On the side of the ring, her toddler was screaming, but afterwards, Taryn felt like it didn’t have to be the end of the world. It was just one test. She could try again, and there was so much more to life than a botched dressage test. Having her daughter put that into perspective. Later, she achieved her goal of getting her USDF gold medal, which she describes as an incredible feeling. Both riders agree that they still have all the goals that they had prior to having children, but they are giving themselves more grace to achieve them on a flexible timeline. We would all do well—mothers or not—to give ourselves that kind of grace.

A theme that runs throughout this podcast series is that sharing information is key—because particularly for people having their first baby, there are so many questions and unknowns. Hearing anecdotal stories from Lucy and her podcast guests, as well as gaining valuable scientific information from experts like Dr. Bertuna, goes a long way to closing the knowledge gap and making equestrian mamas more informed and better supported both during and after their pregnancies.

Sunday Links 5 Oct 2024, 11:01 pm

The Eventing Championships at Galway Downs are approaching at the end of October! On offer is $45,000 in prize monies across FEI divisions as well as a new Devoucoux saddle to the top Junior rider in the CCI2*-L. Come and experience the host of next year’s American Eventing Championships and, in 2028, the presumed site of equestrian at the next Olympic Games. Click here for more information on entries.

U.S. Weekend Preview

The Maryland H.T. + Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm (MD): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Woodside Fall International (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Ocala Fall H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scores] [Volunteeer]

Apple Knoll Farm H.T. (MA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scores]

Miami Valley H.T. at Twin Towers (OH): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

Links & Reading

EN’s classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! It’s still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but we’ve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns they’re searching for. EN readers get unlimited free listings until October 10th with promo code “GoEventing” at checkout. Check it out today! [SHN]

Horse who led Queen’s coffin given ‘animals’ OBE’

The change that vets being run by corporates has brought to the horse world

Jury Finds Texas Equine Veterinarian Guilty On Animal Cruelty Charge

Preventing Gastric Ulcers in Performance Horses

Call for Nominations: 2024 USEA Appreciation Awards

Video Break

Remember that “If Horses Were People” series SmartPak used to do? We’re starting a petition to bring them back.

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: Is My Horse Getting Bigger or Are These Jumps Getting Smaller? 5 Oct 2024, 11:30 am

In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our (recently redesigned!) sister site, Sport Horse Nation. Each week we feature a few current listings for insp0 — click the links for more information.

Looking down upon the competition isn’t generally considered sportsmanlike, but if you just happen to be seated upon the tallest horse in the class? Well then, it (literally) can’t be helped.

Among the nifty new features on EN’s newly redesigned Sport Horse Nation classifieds site is a search bar slider wherein you can hand-select the height range of your dream horse. Check it out! 

As a courtesy to our readers who LOVE a good high horse and refuse to come down, here are five recent postings for horses that are 17.1-hands or taller (mounting block not included):

Experienced 4* horse perfect for Young Rider or Adult Amateur

  • Name: Cooley Almighty (“Kavan”)
  • Year Born: 2013
  • Height: 17.1
  • Breed: KPWN
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Advanced
  • Price: Unspecified
  • Location: Hoffman, NC, USA
  • “‘Kavan’ is an 11yr old Dutch Warmblood gelding by Verdi standing 17.1h. Purchased as a 4yr old he has taken his amateur rider with no UL experience through the 4* level. He has had many top placings throughout his career. He is a fancy mover on the flat with clean changes. You will not find a better cross country horse than Kavan! Would be well suited for an ambitious young rider or amateur. Read more …“

FOR SALE: NOVICE OR DRESSAGE UNICORN

  • Name: CMF Diamond Trinity (“Tiernan”)
  • Year Born: 2016
  • Height: 17.2
  • Breed: Irish Draught
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Novice (US)
  • Comfortable Dressage Schooling Level: Third Level
  • Price: $60,000
  • Location: Hugo, Minnesota, USA
  • “Tiernan has taken his young rider from my second horse trial ever to training level with lots of accolades in between over the 5 years hes been with us, including AECs and Area Championships. Although he has Training miles, he is much better suited to be a Novice and below superstar OR continue with his dressage education. Read more …“

Fisher’s Guccio: 2020 17.1h bay Dutch Harness Horse gelding

  • Name: Fisher’s Guccio (“Gucci”)
  • Year Born: 2020
  • Height: 17.1
  • Breed: Dutch Harness Horse
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Prospect
  • Price: $15,000
  • Location: Middleburg, Virginia, USA
  • “Although Gucci is a new addition to the TFSH program, he’s quickly becoming a barn favorite with his sweet and goofy personality. His eagerness to please has made him easy to work with and a fast learner. Originally purchased as a dressage horse, Gucci has shown a talent for jumping, making him a promising prospect for someone looking to bring along a sensitive, sensible horse. Read more …“

AA friendly packer

  • Name: Killerisk Maximilian (“Killian”)
  • Year Born: 2013
  • Height: 17.1
  • Breed: ISH
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Novice (US)
  • Price: $60,000
  • Location: Groveland, FL, USA
  • “Previously, Killian has competed through Novice eventing and .90 jumpers at WEC, HITS, and other local jumper shows. Easygoing, jumps from any distance and always aims to please. Although he has plenty of scope he isn’t the type to jump his rider out of the tack regardless the size of the fence, making him very suitable for an amateur or young rider who needs a horse that will get them to the other side of the fence safely. Easy lead changes. Read more …“

Proudly Offered For Sale in Round Hill, VA: Carlingford Rockabilly

  • Name: Carlingford Rockabilly (“Billy”)
  • Year Born: 2017
  • Height: 17.1
  • Breed: Irish Sport Horse
  • Gender: Gelding
  • Eventing Competition Level: Preliminary
  • Location: Round Hill, VA, USA
  • “Billy is a beautiful gelding who just won his first preliminary with a 21.3 dressage mark! He has all the quality and trainability to continue a very successful career up the levels. This exciting horse is looking for an ambitious rider to join him on his journey to big things. He is bred for the job and has only been loved and produced with his future in mind. Read more … “

Voting is Now Open for the 2024 FEI Awards 5 Oct 2024, 9:00 am

Laura Collett (GBR) is nominated for Best Athlete in this year’s FEI Awards. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

It’s that time of the year again – a unique and important opportunity for fans to have their say on the best of the best in the equestrian world through the FEI Awards 2024.

FEI is delighted to start the clock today on the online voting for the FEI Awards 2024, with the Longines FEI Rising Star, Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete, Cavalor FEI Best Groom, and FEI Inspire Award up for grabs ahead of a glittering and glamourous awards ceremony.

There are 16 impressive candidates from nine countries nominated across the four award categories this year. They include Olympic and world champions, emerging talents, hard-working grooms, living legends, inspirational volunteers and pioneering Federations.

The public have until 13 October to cast their vote here. The winners will be announced at the FEI Awards Gala presented by Longines on 13 November in Abu Dhabi (UAE).

The FEI welcomes back long-time award partners Longines, Peden Bloodstock and Cavalor for the FEI Awards 2024.

The Longines FEI Rising Star category spotlights young talents who have already left their mark on the equestrian landscape. The nominees are 21-year-old French Para Dressage athlete Chiara Zenati, who finished fourth and just off the Grade III podium on home soil at the 2024 Paralympic Games, 21-year-old Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi of the United Arab Emirates, who was the youngest Jumping athlete at Paris 2024 and qualified for the Individual Final on his Olympic debut, 20-year-old Australian international Grand Prix Dressage athlete Jessica Dertell and the multi-talented 19-year-old Mathies Rüder of Germany, who combines skill sets across both Eventing and Jumping.

The nominees in the Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete category are Germany’s Christian Kukuk, who won individual Jumping gold at Paris 2024 with Checker 47 after an incredible three-way jump-off for the medals, Great Britain’s Laura Collett, whose inspirational story has seen her recover from terrible injury to help win and defend Olympic Eventing team gold in Tokyo and Paris, France’s Théo Gardies, who claimed his first world title in Vaulting in Bern (SUI) in July of this year, and Bram Chardon, who recently clinched world team gold and individual silver for The Netherlands at the FEI Driving World Championships 2024 in Szilvásvárad (HUN).

The Cavalor FEI Best Groom category celebrates the unsung behind-the-scenes heroes. This year’s nominees are Germany’s Lisa Fundis, Jumping groom to compatriot and Paris Olympian Philipp Weishaupt, Denmark’s Mette Klose Nielsen, Para Dressage groom to Norway’s multi-medalled seven-time Paralympian Jens Lasse Dokkan, France’s Bettina Cardinael, Eventing groom to Belgium’s Lara De Liederkerke-Meier, who won this year’s German five-star feature at Luhműhlen with Hooney d’Arville, and Estonia’s Pille Riin Roosileht, Driving groom to the Hungarian Youth team under Zsolt Rimarcsik of Hungary.

The FEI Inspire Award showcases the incredible spirit and determination of individuals and organisations serving as role models and showing that anything is possible.

The nominees for the FEI Inspire category are Georgina Urwin of Great Britain for her work with Summerfield Stables – Horses in the Community, the Namibian Equestrian Federation’s heartwarming “Enabling Through the Horse’’ programme, the brilliant Dr Salom Nghinamito of Namibia as an FEI Permitted Treating Veterinarian, and the iconic Lucinda Green of Great Britain for her cross country coaching skills with the Lucinda Green Academy.

Established in 2009, the FEI Awards celebrate individuals and organisations that are making an outstanding contribution to the progress and excellence of equestrian sport, both in and outside the arena.

The lucky award winners will be flown to the FEI Awards Gala presented by Longines in Abu Dhabi (UAE) on November 13 to receive their prizes.

To take part in the fan vote, simply click here!

In summary, the shortlisted nominees for the FEI Awards 2024 are:

Longines FEI Rising Star – for the athlete aged 14 to 21 who demonstrates outstanding sporting talent and commitment:

  • Jessica Dertell (AUS) – Dressage
  • Chiara Zenati (FRA) – Para Dressage
  • Mathies Rüder (GER) – Eventing and Jumping
  • Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi (UAE) – Jumping

Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete – paying tribute to the athlete who over the past year has demonstrated exceptional skill and taken the sport to a new level:

  • Théo Gardies (FRA) – Vaulting
  • Laura Collett (GBR) – Eventing
  • Bram Chardon (NED) – Driving
  • Christian Kukuk (GER) – Jumping

Cavalor FEI Best Groom – for the behind-the-scenes hero who ensures the horses they look after are given the best possible care:

  • Lisa Fundis (GER) – Jumping Groom to Philipp Weishaupt (GER)
  • Mette Klose Nielsen (DEN) – Para Dressage Groom to Jens Lasse Dokkan (NOR)
  • Bettina Cardinael (FRA) – Eventing Groom to Lara De Liederkerke-Meier (BEL)
  • Pille Riin Roosileht (EST) – Driving Groom to Zsolt Rimarcsik (HUN)

 FEI Inspire – for an individual or organisation that has pursued their equestrian ambition in an inspiring way and serves as a role model to show that everything is possible, and that even when faced with challenges, you should never stop believing in your dreams:

  • Georgina Urwin (GBR) – Summerfield Stables – Horses in the Community
  • The Namibian Equestrian Federation programme “Enabling Through the Horse”
  • Dr Salom Nghinamito (NAM) – FEI Permitted Treating Veterinarian since June 2024
  • Lucinda Green for the Lucinda Green Academy (GBR)

The winners will be decided through a system in which 50% of the public’s vote via FEI.org and on the Chinese social media platform WeChat and 50% of the judges’ vote will be combined to give the result. The seven expert judges are:

  • Ingmar De Vos – FEI President & Chair of the Judges Panel
  • Bernardo Tribolet – Vice President Marketing Longines
  • Martin Atock – Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete Award Title Sponsor
  • Peter Bollen – Cavalor FEI Best Groom Award Title Sponsor
  • HRH Princess Nanda-Dévi Norodom (CAM) – Secretary General of the Cambodian Equestrian Federation
  • Mark Samuel (CAN) – FEI Vice President and Chair of Regional Group IV
  • Catrin Norinder (SWE) – FEI Eventing & Olympic Director

Biographies for all the Judges can be found here.

Saturday Links from World Equestrian Brands 4 Oct 2024, 11:01 pm

What better way to commemorate a remarkable Olympic experience? Laura Collett’s #supergroom, Tilly Hughes, had some cool new cushions created for the lorry and we think it meets dog-in-residence Coco’s approval!

U.S. Weekend Preview

The Maryland H.T. + Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm (MD): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Woodside Fall International (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Ocala Fall H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scores] [Volunteeer]

Apple Knoll Farm H.T. (MA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scores]

Miami Valley H.T. at Twin Towers (OH): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

Links & Reading

EN’s classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! It’s still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but we’ve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns they’re searching for. EN readers get unlimited free listings until October 10th with promo code “GoEventing” at checkout. Check it out today! [SHN]

Call for Official Photographer and Videographer/Live Stream Service Providers at the 2025 USEA AEC

Follow Along with the 2024 Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover

Chatsworth Opts Out of 2025 British Eventing Calendar to Focus on 2026 Events

Whatever the Weather: Caring for Your Horse on the Road and at a Competition

Sporthorse Stars: Off the Record

Mother-Daughter Duo Kirchhoff and Chater Share a Love of Eventing

5 Practical Ways to Build A Positive Team Culture In Your Equine Business with Kaitlin Christopherson

Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands

Amerigo Saddles are designed to keep you in proper balance with your horse without interfering with their body. After all, good tack should not be a distraction — really, you and your horse should barely even notice it because it’s fit well and functions properly. You can explore Amerigo’s full line of jumping and dressage saddles, and book your personalized fitting appointment with the pros at World Equestrian Brands, here.

Video Break

We’re looking forward to Mai Baum’s “swan song” at Maryland 5 Star!

Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill Partners with Maryland-Focused Sportsbook for Sports Betting 4 Oct 2024, 11:00 am

2023 Maryland 5 Star winners Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue tackle the main water complex on cross country. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Sport & Entertainment Corporation of Maryland today announced a groundbreaking partnership with Crab Sports, a startup sportsbook tailored exclusively for the Maryland market, to offer exclusive sports betting markets for the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory, October 17-20. These markets include overall betting on the event in both 5 Star (CCI5*-L) and 3 Star (CCI3*-L) competition classifications, event winner, Top 3, Top 5 and Top 10.

This marks the first-time attendees and fans of the event will have the opportunity to engage in sports wagering and the first-ever opportunity for sports betting of equestrian Eventing in the U.S., as the event continues to add new ways to enhance the fan experience and engagement while appealing to a wider audience to attend its four days of action.

“Crab Sports is thrilled to partner with the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill competition, a premier event that showcases the very best of the sport and of the Maryland community,” said Craig Williams, Crab Sports Director. Partnering with local businesses and events is at the core of what we do, and this collaboration allows us to connect with our Maryland customers in meaningful ways, going beyond where others are willing to go. Together, we’re excited to drive even more fan excitement and engagement to the world-renowned 5 Star, right here in our backyard.”

“We are so excited to work with Crab Sports to offer this unique opportunity to our attendees and fans, while showcasing Maryland’s leadership in both sports and entertainment,” said Jeff Newman, President & CEO of the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory. “This collaboration brings a new level of excitement and engagement to our event, as it marks the first time sports betting will be available at an equestrian event of this caliber featuring eventing in the U.S.”

Registration can be done via the Crab Sports website or their free mobile app, available for download through the App Store and Google Play. Attendees and fans of the event can register using promo code MD5STAR through those platforms for betting access. All new users will receive a $500 Bet Insurance offer, giving you a second chance if your initial wager does not settle as a win. Full terms and conditions can be found here.

Market lines for the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory will open on Monday, October 14th and will be live through the event’s conclusion on Sunday, October 20th.

Crab Sports and the Sport & Entertainment Corporation of Maryland are dedicated to promoting responsible gambling. All participants must be 21 years or older and physically present within the state of Maryland. For those needing assistance, please visit mdgamblinghelp.org or call 1-800-GAMBLER. Crab Sports is Licensed and regulated by Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency.

Billed as the “Triathlon of Equestrian Sports”, the prestigious 5 Star (CCI5*) designation is the pinnacle of the Olympic sport of Eventing and unique in that men and women complete alongside one another. Widely known as one of the most acclaimed equestrian events, the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill is one of only two 5 Star level equestrian events of its kind in the United States and seventh in the world. The four days of Eventing competition features Dressage (Thursday-Friday), Cross-Country (Saturday) showcasing renowned course designer Ian Stark-designed courses, and the Show Jumping finale (Sunday).

About CRAB SPORTS

Launched in 2023, Crab Sports is a startup sportsbook tailored exclusively for the Maryland market. Focused on delivering a localized and engaging sports betting experience, Crab Sports partners with local hero brands and community events to create a platform that resonates with Maryland’s passionate sports fans. With a commitment to responsible gaming and innovative partnerships, Crab Sports is dedicated to becoming a go-to sportsbook for Marylanders.

CSI5* Show Jumping to Run Alongside Defender Kentucky CCI5* in 2025 4 Oct 2024, 8:30 am

Santiago Lambre of Mexico, winner of the inaugural $225,000 Kentucky CSI3* Invitational Grand Prix at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event in 2018. Photo by Michelle Dunn Photo courtesy of LRK3DE.

Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI), a non-profit, charitable organization that supports the development of equestrian sports through the staging of events at the highest level, is thrilled to announce a new name and elevated 5* status for the Kentucky International CSI5* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute!

EEI is best known for producing the annual Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ (K3DE), the nation’s premier eventing competition and one of only seven annual 5* three-day events (CCI5*-L) in the world, as well as the recently upgraded Kentucky International CSI5* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute on the same weekend. Known as “The Best Weekend All Year,” the event annually attracts nearly 90,000 spectators who also enjoy extensive shopping, a variety of hospitality experiences, and a wide array of demonstrations.

Early Bird Ticket Pricing opens Thursday, October 10, for the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian, which returns to the Kentucky Horse Park, April 24-27, 2025. The best deals on tickets are only available until December, so don’t miss out on your chance to watch the world’s premier three-day event!

Formerly known as the Kentucky Invitational Grand Prix, the Kentucky International CSI made its debut at the 2018 Kentucky Three-Day Event as a CSI3* and was held as a CSI4* for the first time in 2024. As a CSI5* in 2025, the international show jumping event will make EEI the only event organizer in the world to host both a CCI5*-L and CSI5* in the same week. As has been the case since the start of the CSI, Derek Braun and his Split Rock Jumping Tour (SRJT) team will produce and manage the event for EEI.

“We’re thrilled at Hagyard to be the Presenting Sponsor once again at this prestigious event, and we are excited for the changes announced for 2025,” said Dr. Laura Werner, Surgeon, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. “EEI and Hagyard are two of the premier brands in the equine industry, so it seems like a natural partnership.”

Starting on October 10, Single-Day and Multi-Day tickets will be available at https://www.kentuckythreedayevent.com/tickets. All grounds admission tickets to the K3DE include general parking and admission to the Kentucky Horse Park and International Trade Fair, but do not include access to the competition in the Rolex Stadium. Reserved grandstand seating is sold separately from grounds admission, and traditionally the best seats sell out fast, so everyone is encouraged to place their orders early. Grounds admission is free for children 12 years and under with adult ticket purchases.

For eventing fans looking to enjoy the ultimate curated Kentucky experience, there will be several Hospitality Packages available including the Five-Star Club, the Kentucky Club and a new hospitality offering, The Start Box Club. Details will be available on the website beginning October 10.

Reserved spaces for Saturday’s Defender Tailgate will also be available when ticket sales open. This is the best way to experience the excitement of Cross-Country Day. Platinum and premium spaces tend to sell out fast, so be sure to book early!

Further details on all ticket options and information on the K3DE and elevated Kentucky International can be found at https://www.kentuckythreedayevent.com/.

Friday News & Notes from Stable View 3 Oct 2024, 11:01 pm

We’ve got two CCI5* events left on the calendar this year, both happening this month at the MARS Maryland 5 Star (October 16-20) and Les 5 Etoiles de Pau (October 24-27), and while we eagerly await the full entry list at Pau we do know that Boyd Martin is aiming two of his horses (Fedarman B and Miss Lulu Herself) at this 5*, as are Will Coleman and Off the Record and defending champions Ros Canter and Izilot DHI. Much more to come on the final 5* of the 2024 season — stay tuned.

U.S. Weekend Preview

The Maryland H.T. + Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm (MD): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Woodside Fall International (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Ocala Fall H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scores] [Volunteeer]

Apple Knoll Farm H.T. (MA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scores]

Miami Valley H.T. at Twin Towers (OH): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

News & Reading

An FEI stakeholder meeting was held on October 1 to address the social license and welfare issues facing the sport of dressage. The meeting served to reaffirm the core objectives of the sport, as well as to work through ways to realign things to match up better with these core values. [Read the summary]

After 14 years as a rider and coach at Germany’s Warendorf facility, Julia Krajewski is moving on. “It’s a personal decision,” Julia told ReiterRevue. “The time after the Olympic Games is the phase in which athletes think about what to do next. I really enjoyed working as a national coach. I have been a rider and trainer for 14 years now. Now a different phase is coming. I want to concentrate more on myself in the coming period.” Talks are currently underway to identify and hire a new coach at Warendorf, which systematically produces young event riders to the top levels of the sport and has seen numerous success stories out of its program. [More on this story]

Silva Martin lit up the Oval this past weekend during Dressage at Devon, winning the Devon Dance-Off competition with her longtime homebred partner, Rosa Cha. We LOVED Silva’s full embracing of the hippie outfit, just saying. [Read the story]

Entries for the Educational 3-Day at Florida Horse Park are open now! Don’t miss out on this incredible project from the local eventing community dedicated to education and fun at every level of the sport, happening November 18-23 just outside of Ocala. Entry fees go up at the end of October. You can join this Facebook group for more information on the event.

Sponsor Corner: Stable View

Photo by Christine Quinn Photography.

Closing date for the October Eventing Academy at Stable View is TODAY! The October Academy will take place October 11-13 and features ample opportunity for schooling and practice ahead of a low-pressure, unrecognized competition on the final day. You can accumulate points for year-end prizes and gain some valuable experience without the hefty fees. October is one of three Eventing Academy dates left on the 2024 calendar, so don’t miss out! Learn more here. You can also read a write-up on the Stable View Eventing Academy here.

Video Break

Get some tips on your 10-meter circles from FEI judge and 5* rider Valerie Pride:

Introducing Sport Horse Nation 2.0 + Get Your FREE LISTING Promo Code! 3 Oct 2024, 11:30 am

As legend has it, EN’s OG companion classifieds site — Sport Horse Nation — was built by John in his mom’s basement in 2010. There may or may not have been a chinchilla involved.

That’s not important.

What IS important is that, while functional and still widely used, SHN has been looking its age of late …

… and John recently crawled out of the woodwork to give it a full makeover.

As such, we are excited to roll out a fresh new SHN, replete with advanced user features and upgraded search functionality that will be helpful for buyers and sellers alike.To help you filter through over a hundred eventing horses for sale, you can now narrow your search by criteria like breed, height, level competed, and geographic region, so that if you’re a 6’3″ Beginner Novice rider in Florida you no longer need to sift through piles of four-star ponies in Washington state to find your unicorn. (OK, “piles” is a strong word.)

Sliders for personality and aptitude — Is this horse more ‘whoa’ or ‘go’? Are we talking K3DE-bound or just total dominance and annihilation at the local green-as-grass CT? — make it easier for sellers to authentically communicate their horse’s vibe.

We’re going to fire back up our weekly “Sport Horse Nation Spotlight” post and showcase horses for sale on SHN’s socials as well, so be sure to follow along on SHN Facebook.

It’s been 14 years and thousands of horses sold since SHN began but our original mission remains the same: connecting quality horses with homes where they can be happy and successful.

We believe in better partnerships through smarter matchmaking. We believe in a horse-first marketplace where radical transparency isn’t the exception but the rule. We believe there is a perfect equine match for every rider, and our goal is to bring them together. We believe in bringing all of this together in the only exclusive place to buy and sell eventing horses.

And we believe in giving YOU dibs! EN readers get unlimited free listings until October 10th with promo code “GoEventing” at checkout. Check it out today!

[Browse Over 100 Eventing Horses for Sale at Sport Horse Nation]

Maryland 5 Star Entry Preview: Mai Baum Returns, Strong International Contenders Feature on Roster 3 Oct 2024, 8:00 am

Tamie Smith and Mai Baum at Kentucky.

Entries have closed and we now have a small but mighty field to look forward to at this year’s MARS Maryland 5 Star, presented by Brown Advisory (October 17-20). As always, the Maryland 5 Star also features a large CCI3*-L entry list, as well as entries for the USEA East Coast Young Event Horse Championships for 4- and 5-year-olds, all of which run alongside the CCI5* division.

The North America-Based Contenders

Boyd Martin and On Cue. Photo by Abby Powell.

It goes without saying that all eyes will be on Mai Baum, the Defender Kentucky champion from 2023, who returns to the CCI5* level for one last hurrah with Tamie Smith. The 18-year-old German gelding owned by the Ahearn and Markell families narrowly missed out on a team spot for Paris this summer after dealing with some minor injuries, but Tamie set her sights on Maryland as an ideal “plan B.” “Lexus” has had a light year due to the aforementioned downtime, winning an Intermediate at Twin Rivers this summer en route to the East coast. He last competed at the 4*+ level in 2023, when he finished third individually at CHIO Aachen.

Paris Olympian Boyd Martin features on this list with three horses who are household names at this point. This includes the inaugural Maryland 5 Star winner, On Cue (owned by the Turner family), who was 10th at Burghley in 2023. “Cue”, who is also one of three 18-year-old horses in the field, has also enjoyed a lighter prep this summer, leaning on her experience to prep her for this start without unnecessary wear and tear.

Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Boyd’s Tokyo partner Tsetserleg (owned by the Turner family) also joins the field, just missing out on the 18-year-old club membership at 17 this year. Of all the 5* starts to this U.S.-bred Trakehner gelding’s record, Maryland 5 Star has never been one of them, and Boyd has eyed this up as his goal for his longtime friend after taking him to Badminton earlier this year.

Boyd Martin and Commando 3. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Making his debut at the 5* level is Commando 3 (owned by Yankee Creek Ranch), who was Boyd’s direct reserve horse in Paris. In the short time Boyd’s had the ride on this 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding, he’s ticked off all the prep stops one would imagine en route to a competitive 5* debut, including a second-place finish in the Lexington CCI4*-S in April, a win in the CCI4*-L at Morven Park last fall, and a top 5 in the CCI4*-S at Bromont last spring. While this is very much a horse for the future, you also shouldn’t let the first 5* deter you from picking “Connor” as a top finisher.

Jennie Saville and Twilightslastgleam. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Jennie Brannigan is another one to watch on the U.S. side, bringing forward the Gardners’ homebred Twilightslastgleam, a 14-year-old Thoroughbred gelding who made his 5* debut here at Maryland in 2022, finishing just outside of the top 15. Fun fact, this horse also competed in the Young Event Horse Championships at Fair Hill when he was just a young gun!

Buck Davidson and Sorocaima. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Buck Davidson will bring forward the 13-year-old Thoroughbred gelding Sorocaima, who seriously impressed at Kentucky this spring with a sixth place finish. Buck and “Cam” were also inside the top 10 in the final standings at Maryland in 2023.

Emily Hamel and Corvett. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Emily Hamel is another name most eventing fans will recognize, thanks in part to her partner, Corvett‘s “unusual” jumping style. This will be Emily and “Barry’s” eighth CCI5* start together, and their third time competing in the Maryland 5 Star. They’ve done nearly every 5* there is to be done in the world at this point, except for Pau and Adelaide, and they’re consistent performers who can generally be trusted to jump clear and finish close their dressage score.

Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach. Photo by Abby Powell.

Ema Klugman is back for another 5* start with the athletic mare Bronte Beach Z. This will be Bronte’s second CCI5* start, having debuted at the level in Kentucky this year, where she finished just outside of the top 20. Ema, who just started a new job as a newly-minted attorney working as a law clerk, balances her new career with managing several horses at the Advanced and Intermediate levels, and Bronte Beach is a product of this system. We can anticipate improvement from this pair as the 12-year-old Zangersheide mare gains more experience and strength for the demands of the top level.

Allie Knowles and Morswood. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Allie Knowles and Morswood are another pair we’ve come to anticipate on these 5* entry lists, coming forward this time for their seventh start at the level. They took an abbreviated trip around Burghley’s cross country last month, an unlucky parting of ways cutting their trip overseas short and putting a re-route on their path.

Joe Meyer and Harbin. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Riding for New Zealand but very much a part of the U.S. community is Joe Meyer, who will bring foward Harbin (owned by the Meyers as well as Theresa Foote), a 14-year-old Thoroughbred gelding, for his second CCI5* start. This was another pair that caught our eye in Kentucky with their gritty performance, where they finished in the top 15.

Jessie Phoenix and Wabbit. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Three-time Canadian Olympian Jessie Phoenix will bring forward fan favorite (it’s all in the ears!) Wabbit (owned by Jim Phillips) for his second CCI5* of the year after completing Badminton this spring. Wabbit is yet another Thoroughbred in this year’s field, and Jessie will be looking to improve upon her top 20 finish with this horse at Maryland in 2022. She will also ride the 16-year-old Canadian Sporthorse mare Fluorescent Adolescent (owned by Makayla Rydzik) in her CCI5* debut.

Lindsay Traisnel and Bacyrouge. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Also representing Canada is Lindsay Traisnel, who will compete Patrica Pearce’s 13-year-old Selle Francais gelding Bacyrouge in his first CCI5*. Lindsay has started a 5* before (Pau – 2012) but will be looking for her first completion and a long-awaited return to the level with the horse she took to the Pan American Games last fall, earning a team gold medal and individual bronze.

Lillian Heard and LCC Barnaby. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Lillian Heard Wood is partnered with the third 18-year-old horse in the field in one LCC Barnaby, who comes forward for his 15th CCI5* start. This horse has competed at this level for nearly a decade with Lillian, and she’s the first to tell you he’s only gotten better (and more rideable on cross country!) with age.

Last but certainly not least, three UK-based American riders are coming “home” for a visit and a trip around the Maryland 5 Star.

Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

London Olympian Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl burst onto the 5* scene at Badminton earlier this year, their sophomore effort at the level after parting ways on cross country in the now-14-year-old mare’s debut. At Badminton, they put Burghley to bed for good with an emphatic top-25 finish that featured a near-personal best dressage mark.

Cosby Green and Highly Suspicious. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Cosby Green, fresh off a 16th-place finish at Burghley with Copper Beach, will bring the 14-year-old Irish gelding Highly Suspicious for his 5* debut. This is a horse Cosby’s had in her program for the better part of 10 years, methodically producing him for this moment. She’s got a lot of experience at this level now, but bringing a first-time horse versus one that’s done it before requires a different approach. She’s done that in spades, working with the Prices (with whom she’s been basing in the UK) and selecting the right events to test the horse’s mettle before stepping up to 5*. She and Highly Suspicious are coming off back-to-back 4* podium finishes in Ireland and France and have also finished strong in their two CCI4*-L competitions.

Grace Taylor and Game Changer. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Grace Taylor is also coming over from the UK, bringing the 12-year-old Irish Sporthorse gelding, Game Changer, for a third CCI5* start. This pair has jumped around cross country at Badminton (18th – 2024) and Burghley (withdrew before show jumping – 2023) and come forward well-prepared for their first 5* on American soil.

One notable absentee from this roster on the U.S. side is Diabolo, who was to contest his first 5* with Will Coleman at Maryland. Will shared with EN that “Dab” picked up a minor injury in his last prep run in Unionville and will be sidelined for the remainder of the season.

The Overseas Entries

Six of the entries on this year’s Maryland list come from international riders (not counting the U.S. riders based in the UK mentioned above).

Oliver Townend and Ballaghmor Class. Photo by Shelby Allen.

Current world #3 and defending Kentucky champion Oliver Townend (GBR) is making another trip over for Maryland, this time with another former Kentucky champion, Ballaghmor Class (owned by Angela Hislop, Val Ryan, and Karyn Shuter). One of several 17-year-olds in the field, “Thomas” capped off 2023 in a big way, winning Defender Burghley for the second time and adding to his bursting trophy cabinet. This is the most successful horse in the field, winning three 5*s and finishing off the podium just once, in fifth place, in nine starts. This 10th 5* stands to be a big one for Oliver and Ballaghmor Class if they can return to the form they’ve demonstrated to this point.

Tim Price and Falco. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

World #7 and another winner here at Maryland, Tim Price (NZL), will compete with Falco (owned by Sue Benson), who was his partner for a sixth place individual finish in Paris this summer. Falco is also a 5* winner in his own right, taking the Pau title 2021, which has been his sole 5* start as he’s been aimed primarily at championships in the intervening years. He was individual and team bronze at World Championships in Pratoni and at 14 still has much left to give — including, potentially, another 5* trophy in his first event on U.S. soil.

Harry Meade and Away Cruising. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Harry Meade (GBR) finds himself rather flush with 5* horses this year, bringing two to Maryland after competing three other horses at Burghley last month. He’s got two solid contenders in the Dear and Opperman families’ 17-year-old Away Cruising (also making his 10th 5* start at Maryland) and 5* debutant Et Hop Du Matz (owned by Mandy Gray).

Bubby Upton and Cola. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Bubby Upton continues her incredible comeback story with a first trip to the U.S. aboard Cola, who was 10th at Badminton this spring. Bubby had a series of massive injuries last summer after a fall while riding on the flat. She underwent extensive surgeries to stabilize a burst fracture of the L3 and a horizontal fracture of the L2 vertebrae, and went on to return to the 5* level at Badminton. And she hasn’t just launched a comeback — she’s in it to win it, and she’s got a horse to do it on. A frangible pin penalty at Badminton created a “what could have been” scenario, but she’ll be ready to put that to bed this month in Maryland and leave it all out on the cross country track.

David Doel and Galileo Nieuwmoed. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

David Doel is making his second trip to the U.S. and first to the Maryland 5 Star with Galileo Nieuwmoed (owned by Mary Fox, Gillian Jonas, and the rider), making their ninth CCI5* start together. This pair is yet another serious threat to the top of the leaderboard, having coming second at Burghley last year. They’ve finished at least in the top five in four times in their 5* partnership and stand to make it a fifth this. month.

And there you have it! It’s a small field, but in an Olympic year and with two other 5*s on the late summer/fall calendar, it’s to be expected. We’ll be cheering on each and every rider, and you’ll be able to learn even more about the 5* pairs in our forthcoming Form Guide, which is included in the MARS Maryland 5 Star Digital Program.

You can view full entries to the MARS Maryland 5 Star and much more information on the event here.

MARS Maryland 5 Star: [Website] [Entries] [Tickets] [Volunteer] [EN’s Coverage]

Our coverage of the MARS Maryland 5 Star is brought to you by our incredible supporters, Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional products to keep your horse feeling their best at all times. They’ll even get on the phone with you to help you formulate a solid supplementation plan for your horse’s individual needs! We’d really appreciate your support of KPP, as they’re champions for our sport and beyond and are wonderful people to boot. Check them out here.

Thursday News & Notes from TerraNova Equestrian 2 Oct 2024, 11:01 pm

A 5*-sized throwback this Thursday from you out of The Chronicle of the Horse archives: now a renowned Olympic course designer, Derek di Grazia is also a top competitor, riding at the top levels of the sport and winning Kentucky’s then-3* competition in 1985 with Sasquatch. You can read more about this stop on memory lane here.

U.S. Weekend Preview

The Maryland H.T. + Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm (MD): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Woodside Fall International (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Ocala Fall H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteeer]

Apple Knoll Farm H.T. (MA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times]

Miami Valley H.T. at Twin Towers (OH): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

News & Reading

We’re going to use most of the space in today’s News & Notes to share some opportunities to help those affected by Hurricane Helene as well as news and updates from around the horse communities affected.

Please note, while we do our best to verify the opportunities below, we always advise that you check the context of those gathering donations and otherwise offering help and ensure that you’re giving to an organization or person you trust. We also know this is not a comprehensive list, so feel free to email us at tips@eventingnation.com with a link to a credible donation outlet or charitable organization.

Helene Updates and Coverage:

Blue Ridge Horse Community Digging Out From Hurricane Helene’s Devastation

Tryon Hurricane Helene Update – October 1

Mountain Mules are Bringing Hope to Appalachia

Ways to Help:

Donate to The Foundation of the Horse Disaster Relief fund.

Video Break

Take a tour of the beautiful TerraNova Equestrian Center, which looks foward to welcoming eventers at all levels to the November Event at TerraNova (November 14-17) in Myakka City, FL.

US Equestrian Open of Eventing Announces Qualifier Schedule 2 Oct 2024, 8:30 am

Following the recent announcement of the forthcoming US Equestrian Open, a new series of events highlighting the Olympic disciplines of eventing, dressage, and show jumping, the qualifier competitions for the Eventing competition have been unveiled.

The US Equestrian Open of Eventing will feature an unprecedented amount of prize monies, including $1 million on offer across disciplines and $200,000 up for grabs at the Eventing Final hosted at Morven Park in October of 2025.

More details have yet to be revealed about the series, but the qualifier pathway will feature a $50,000 series award that can be distributed based on rankings. The qualifier schedule also highlights venues around the country and on both coasts to ensure athletes in all areas can have a chance to compete in the series.

The full Eventing Final qualifier schedule is as follows:

2024 Competitions:
1. Morven Park International & Fall Horse Trials CCI-4*-S – October 10-13
2. Bouckaert Equestrian Horse Trials International CCI4*-S – October 25-27

2025 Competitions:
1. Bouckaert Equestrian Horse Trials International CCI4*-S – March 6-9
2. Carolina International CCI4*-S – March 13-16
3. The Event at Terranova CCI4*-S – March 27-30
4. Stable View Spring CCI4*-S – April 4-6
5. Twin Rivers Spring International CCI4*-S – April 10-13
6. Ocala International Festival of Eventing CCI4* – April 17-20
7. Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI4*-S – April 23-27
8. Tryon International Three-Day Event CCI4*-S – May 7-11
9. Aspen Farm Horse Trials CCI4*-S – June 12-15
10. The Maryland International CCI4*-S – July 3-7
11. The Event at Rebecca Farm CCI4*-S – July 16-20
12. Bouckaert Equestrian Horse Trials International CCI4*-S – August 29-31
13. The Fork at Tryon CCI4* – September 11-14
14. Twin Rivers Fall International CCI4*-S – September 19-21
15. Stable View Oktoberfest CCI4*S – September 24-28
16. Woodside Fall International CCI4*-S – October 3-5

The Final:
US Equestrian Open of Eventing Final – Morven Park International & Fall Horse Trials CCI4*-L – October 9-12

The US Equestrian Open has a new website, on which you’ll be able to follow along with events in each discipline’s series, leaderboard updates, and live streaming information. We’ll keep you updated on new announcements from this series and beyond and will see you at the first qualifier leg happening at Morven Park next weekend.

 

Wednesday News & Notes from Morven Park 1 Oct 2024, 11:01 pm

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

A few personnel and staffing changes at the FEI lead off our news round-up this morning as the international governing body has announced a new Director of Eventing to replace Catrin Norinder upon retirement after 37 years of service.

For her part, Catrin Norinder has been involved in the organization of equestrian sports at the Olympic Games starting with Seoul the same year she was hired (1988). She also played a key role in the creation of the Eventing Risk Management Program.

Frédérique Reffet Plantier will take over as Director of Eventing in 2025. Photo courtesy of the FEI.

Frédérique Reffet Plantier will now step up to replace Catrin, effective January 1, 2025. Catrin will stay on in a consulting role for the first part of 2025 to assist with the handover of the role. An FEI press release about the appointment reads:

Working with the FEI since 2012, Reffet Plantier started in the Eventing and Olympic Department working closely with the Director and colleagues on all aspects of event and competition management, FEI Committee administration, and the development of risk management practices within the discipline.

In 2021, she transitioned into the role of Senior Manager within the office of the FEI Secretary General, allowing her to gain valuable experience in governance and decision-making, significantly expanding her skill set in both leadership and management.

“Throughout her time at the FEI, we have had the pleasure of observing Frédérique’s significant contributions across her various roles,” FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said.

“She has approached each challenge with unwavering professionalism and has demonstrated an exceptional ability to manage complex projects.

“Frédérique is well placed to take on this key role within the organisation, with her comprehensive knowledge of the Eventing discipline and her familiarity with the internal workings of the FEI governance structures. Her inclusive and supportive nature has made her a trusted and valued member of the FEI team at our headquarters in Lausanne and we are excited to see the next chapter of the FEI Eventing Department develop under her leadership.”

Chair of the FEI Eventing Committee and former Olympic Eventing gold medallist from the USA, David O’Connor said, “Frédérique brings to the Director’s position a deep understanding of the operational framework of the Eventing discipline, practical experience in implementing these elements at events worldwide, and a sound awareness of horses as an avid equestrian herself.

“Throughout her involvement in the sport’s evolution, Frédérique has played a crucial role in significant decisions, including changes to the Olympic format and advancements in Eventing Risk Management.

“Having witnessed Frédérique’s growth within the sport, I am confident that her respect for its history, combined with her openness to new approaches for future advancement, makes her the ideal candidate for the Director of Eventing position.”

In other personnel news from the FEI, its Communications Director, Olivia Robinson, has also departed from her role after 18 years of service. The governing body will now reassess its operations and departments with findings to be reported in the coming months.

U.S. Weekend Preview

The Maryland H.T. + Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm (MD): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Woodside Fall International (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Ocala Fall H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteeer]

Apple Knoll Farm H.T. (MA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times]

Miami Valley H.T. at Twin Towers (OH): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]

Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]

News & Reading

Ocala’s World Equestrian Center housed 1,200 horses during Hurricane Helene. What goes into this effort to help keep horses and humans safe during extreme weather events? Read more here.

Tryon Equestrian Resort has also been providing updates from Helene as the North Carolina and Tennessee areas continue to recover from massive damages done by the storm.

Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program Championships, which were to be held at Stable View this weekend, have been postponed to October 24-27 as the venue continues to grapple with damage done as Helene moved through Aiken. Declarations and entries have subsequently been extended to October 15, and full refunds will be given to any competitors provided they scratch by October 4. More information here.

British Equestrian has unveiled a new Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan, which includes six key strategic objectives outlined through research for Horses For All. More information on this plan here.

How can you overcome the things that overwhelm you, especially when it comes to competitive environments? Coach Daniel Stewart has some advice in his latest “Pressure Proof” column for the USEA, and it involves things we can practice both in and out of the saddle. Read more here.

Sponsor Corner: Morven Park Fall International & H.T.

We can’t wait to spend “a day in the country” with you next weekend at the Morven Park Fall International & H.T.! With eventing action and championships happening at multiple levels, a slew of awards on offer for top performers, and plenty of ways to enhance the spectator experience, this is truly a fall event not to be missed. Tailgate and VIP opportunities start at just $150, and you can secure your spot here and here.

Video Break

Get excited for Morven Park with us!

Restart Your OTTB with this Program from Ride iQ 1 Oct 2024, 11:30 am

OTTB trainer Aubrey Graham. Photo courtesy of Ride iQ / Kassie A. Colson.

A good Thoroughbred is still the ultimate athlete for the sport of eventing. Their athleticism—and in particular, their gallop—is hard for any other breed of horse to match. Getting a Thoroughbred off the racetrack is also one of the most affordable ways to get into the sport because off-the-track Thoroughbreds (“OTTBs”) are generally a fraction of the price of purpose-bred warmbloods.

However, switching careers can be challenging for a horse. Asking a racehorse to become an eventer is a bit like asking an engineer to become a lawyer. Some aspects of the job might be the same, but shifting careers can present real challenges and there is often a tough adjustment period. The horse has to learn an entirely new set of skills, and they might have some baggage from their years at the track that makes it hard to become an event horse.

In partnership with the Retired Racehorse Project, Ride iQ produced a 10-lesson series to help riders bring along their OTTBs. Ride iQ coach Aubrey Grahamholds your hand through these lessons as she helps you take your horse from basic groundwork exercises to flatwork and eventually jumping.

Aubrey’s main focus is restarting OTTBs, and each year she contributes to the training of, on average, at least 50 Thoroughbreds. She also specializes in horses that are known for having extensive training issues or have been labeled “problem horses.” Aubrey is also the founder of “Thoroughbred Logic,” which includes a series of articles published weekly on EN’s sister site, Horse Nation, as well as nationally-held masterclasses and clinics.

Having such an experienced horsewoman walk you through the steps of restarting your OTTB is a real advantage, especially if you are doing most of the restarting yourself. Through the course of this series, Aubrey works with a 4 year-old Thoroughbred that she is retraining. Whether your horse is four, or six, or eight, the lessons are broadly applicable for any horse switching careers.

To me, one of the most rewarding aspects of training horses is learning how they think and what makes them tick. We have a young OTTB at the moment who I believe has the qualities to be a top eventer. About a year ago, we were out hacking and introduced him to his first “water jump,” which is a wide stream near our farm. He was quite suspicious at first, and would not go in even with a lead horse. We let him stand there and sniff the edge and think about the question for about two minutes with no pressure. Then, like a light switch, he walked straight in. We learned a lot about that horse from that experience—that he likes to have a moment to figure out the question being asked, and then he is more than willing to attempt to give you the right answer. That way of processing information has in turn informed our further training with that horse, and we will keep that in mind for years to come.

The Ride iQ OTTB restarting series is valuable because it will help you figure out what makes your horse tick. You may not follow the exact program that Aubrey presents, and that is entirely okay. The main goal is to build a partnership with your horse and find the best way of communicating with your horse, both from the ground and from the saddle.

One of my first Advanced horses, Joker’s Win, raced over 50 times and then competed in over 65 recognized eventing competitions through the 4* level. He is now semi-retired and still enjoys flatwork and trail riding. That horse taught me what cross country was supposed to feel like, and he was an amazing and generous partner. He was also restarted by a professional rider, who carefully took him from the track into an established eventing program. That smooth transition from racing to eventing is what allowed him to be successful for so many years in the sport of eventing. Having a well-thought out plan like the one Ride iQ provides in this series with Aubrey Graham is a great first step to making your OTTB’s transition smooth. Enlisting additional help from an experienced trainer will also ensure that you have a wonderful partner with which to enjoy the sport for years to come.

US Equestrian Announces Changes to GR838 Regarding Unethical Treatment of Horses 1 Oct 2024, 9:00 am

US Equestrian has confirmed some additional changes to a forthcoming update to GR838, which deals with the reporting and handling of horse abuse incidents. Until December 1, 2024, the rule is written to cover reports of horse abuse at USEF-licensed or endorsed competitions only. This means that reports of abuse, or in the updated language provided for this rule, “unethical treatment of horses” that occur on private property do not currently fall under the USEF’s jurisdiction.

Related to recent reports of abusive behavior on the part of riders such as Cesar Parra in dressage and, later, Andrew McConnon in eventing, US Equestrian undertook an update to the rule that will expand its abilities to enforce this rule on private property. The update will not, however, apply retroactively, which means that reports of unethical behavior that are filed prior to December 1 will not qualify under this jurisdiction.

“Individuals who engage in unethical treatment of horses—regardless of location—are compromising the integrity of our sport and endangering its viability, sustainability, and public perception at a time when all equestrian sport, including USEF-governed breeds and disciplines, is under increasing scrutiny,” US Equestrian wrote in a press release. “Situations such as those that have come to light recently via social media are unacceptable. US Equestrian has heard your concerns and appreciates the courage it takes to report alleged incidents of cruelty to and abuse of our equine partners. We understand and share your frustration that, in many instances, we could not act on incidents that occurred outside of the competition environment.”

The current revisions to GR838 include replacing “cruelty to and abuse of a horse” with “unethical treatment of a horse” to “more accurately reflect US Equestrian’s role as guardian of both sport and our horses.”

This revision will also see the rule applied anywhere unethical treatment is reported, regardless of whether it occurred at a USEF-licensed or endorsed competition. The rule does not give US Equestrian free rein to enter a person’s property unannounced.

“Rather, we will continue to rely on you to report incidents of unethical treatment of the horse,” the press release states. “Once a report is received, US Equestrian will work diligently to interview witnesses with personal knowledge and authenticate any photographs, videos, or other physical evidence related to the alleged incident. This takes time. All allegations are taken seriously. While we are eager to hold wrongdoers accountable, fairness and the integrity of the process dictate that they have the opportunity to be heard and offer evidence in response.”

“The time has come for the US Equestrian community to strengthen our existing leadership on this issue for the betterment of horses and equestrian sport. This also means that each of us must model exemplary behavior at all times. We believe the revisions to GR838, coupled with the existing process and procedures, protect both our horses and our members.”

Tuesday News & Notes from Kentucky Performance Products 1 Oct 2024, 4:51 am

A very happy retirement beckons for stalwart five-star horse Alfie’s Clover, who we’ve so enjoyed seeing blazing around the Big Bs with Richard Jones in the irons. I love this post from Richard and his team, which really shows what a broad group effort it is to get a horse to this level. They really do form families around them, and we’re all so lucky to be in their orbit.

Events Opening Today: Full Moon Farm’s Fall HT,  The Event at TerraNova

Events Closing Today: Hagyard Midsouth Three-day Event, MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory, Ram Tap National H.T., Windermere Run H.T., Willow Draw Charity Show

News & Notes from Around the World:

EN’s classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! It’s still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but we’ve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns they’re searching for. EN readers get unlimited free listings until October 10th with promo code “GoEventing” at checkout. Check it out today! [SHN]

Plenty of different fence profiles can be collapsible — and now, trakehners join their ranks. Osberton International in the UK will debut a frangible trakehner at their venue next week in both the two-star and three-star courses. Here’s how they made it work.

Us horsey folks are, well, a touch unique. Or certainly, we all show up smelling quite unique in circumstances we probably oughtn’t to, anyway. I enjoyed this ode to that special brand of horse-person looniness here, and I reckon you’ll get that little ripple of familiarity too.

On that note, your family might not be as keen as you are on your horse habit. So how do you make it something you can all enjoy together? Is that even possible? Here’s some food for thought.

Recent incidents have prompted a change to some key wording in rule GR838 in the USEF rulebook. This is the rule that, specifically, focuses on the abuse and mistreatment of horses, and the rewrite will come into effect in December in a bid to better protect the equines within its remit. You can read the revision here.

Sponsor Corner: Should you be adjusting your horse’s diet for seasonal changes? A horse’s dietary requirements can shift based on season, and there are a few things you can do to assess your current program and make adjustments as appropriate. Learn more with Kentucky Performance Products here.

Watch This: 

Catch up with Morocco’s Noor Slaoui after her history-making turn at the Paris Olympics:

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