Dancing Sneakers On for five* Dressage Day Two – Reside Weblog from The Greatest Weekend All 12 months – Defender Kentucky Three-Day Occasion
In a single day leaders within the CCI5* – Britain’s Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir. Photograph by Tilly Berendt.
What a day of dressage we had yesterday! The solar was shining on Kentucky and our stars of the present stepped as much as the plate. Right here’s our high three as issues stand:
1️⃣ In pole place after the primary day’s dressage is Nice Britain’s Yasmin Ingham with Banzai du Loir on a rating of 26.
2️⃣ 5 factors behind, additionally from Nice Britain, are Kirsty Chabert and Basic VI on 31.
3️⃣ And rounding out the highest three, simply 0.1 behind, we have now Germany’s Malin Hansen-Hotopp with Carlitos Quidditch Okay on 31.1.
Prepared for much more? Oh sure we’re!
Right here’s a style of what we’ve obtained to sit up for right this moment:
From the US cohort we have now the present high Three on the USEA leaderboard:
1️⃣ Phillip Dutton is right here together with his beautiful mare Azure;
2️⃣ World No. Three Boyd Martin comes ahead with Maryland 5* winner and fourth place finisher right here in 2021 On Cue;
3️⃣ Liz Halliday’s thrilling expertise Cooley Nutcracker is making his 5* debut.
The Brits are right here in drive with Olympic crew gold and particular person silver medalist Tom McEwen again with final yr’s runner-up JL Dublin, and gunning for his fourth Kentucky win is World No. 1, Tom’s Olympic gold teammate Oliver Townend, who brings ahead Maryland 5* third place finisher Cooley Rosalent.
The Aussies are represented by 5* rookie mixture Rebecca Braitling and Caravaggio II.
And on the different finish of the size, within the Kiwi camp we have now seven-time Kentucky competitor Joe Meyer together with his 5* first-timer Harbin.
Going for Germany this afternoon, we have now World Championship crew gold medalist Christoph Wahler, who’s been on scorching kind lately together with his trip right here this week, 5* first-timer D’Accord FRH.
I child you not, the sector is so completely stacked I may have highlighted all of them – and for those who’re wishing I had, then you definitely’re in want of EN’s epic Type Information, which you’ll discover proper right here.
The USA’s Sharon White and Claus 63 will kick off the motion right this moment at 1pm ET / 7pm CEST.
If you wish to see when your favorites are going, you’ll discover the trip occasions right here.
Missed out yesterday? Don’t fret. Meet up with each step from Dressage Day One with the reside weblog, which you’ll discover proper right here – and browse our round-up report right here.
Will there be a change on the high after right this moment’s motion between the white boards? Who shall be heading into the very best day of the yr as chief of the pack? I’ll be bringing you reside updates all through the afternoon, so preserve this web page refreshed and watch this house! For those who’re catching up with this later and are the kind to love issues so as, scroll ⬇️ and browse ⬆️. If going backwards is extra your jam, have at it.
In case your urge for food for all issues Kentucky is as insatiable as ours – all hail the eventing nerds! – we’ve obtained a complete bunch of content material coming your approach, after which some. We’ve obtained extra reside blogs comin’ at ya – tune in tomorrow for the 4*-S and 5* cross nation, and on Sunday for the finale of the 5* present leaping. AS WELL AS THAT we’re posting every day experiences from every stage of the competitors and we’ve obtained a great deal of nice IG content material occurring courtesy of our crew on the bottom too @goeventing. Click on right here for all of the Kentucky content material you possibly can deal with.
Let’s flip our consideration to the middle line, and go eventing!
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4:08pm ET
Dressage is completed, it’s truly the weekend (form of) and we’re only one sleep away from The. Greatest. Day.
Right here’s who’s heading out onto tomorrow’s cross nation on the head of the pack:
1️⃣ Our clubhouse chief is Nice Britain’s Tom McEwen with JL Dublin on a rating of 24.6.
2️⃣ Simply 1.Four behind, additionally from Britain, are Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir on 26.
3️⃣ And rounding out the highest three we have now a pair of Individuals – Liz Halliday with Cooley Nutcracker and Lauren Nicholson with Vermiculuson 30.6.
However everyone knows that eventing’s not a dressage competitors. Be sure you’re again with us tomorrow at 9am ET / 3pm CEST once I’ll be reside running a blog my fingers off for the 4*-S cross nation AND the 5* at 1:30pm ET / 7:30pm CEST.
Eyes on for our Dressage Day Two round-up – coming quickly. Till then, click on right here for all of the Kentucky content material you possibly can deal with.
That’s all from the dressage, and all from me for now.
Till tomorrow ENers, go eventing!
3:55pm ET
Phillip Dutton and Azure (USA)
Information and Type:
5⭐ kind – ‘Sky’ made her 5* debut final season at Maryland however an unlucky fall means she’s searching for her first top-level completion right here this week.
1️⃣ Phillip is at present sitting on the high of the USEA leaderboard.
Be careful for this pair on the cross nation on Saturday – the mare has had leaping penalties simply as soon as – and that fall at Maryland – in 24 begins!
⏩ Bred and produced to CCI4* degree by Irish worldwide eventer Elizabeth Energy, Azure joined Phillip’s barn in 2022.
They had been 12th within the 4*-S at Steady View earlier this month and seventh at Bouckaert Farm a couple of weeks in the past, including simply XC time to their rating on each events. Final season they received the 4*-L at Bromont, including simply 0.Eight to their dressage of 36.4.
Trending mid-30s within the first part – they scored 34.2 at Maryland – they received’t be on the high of the pack as soon as dressage is completed, however Azure’s critically spectacular cross nation leaping report means she’s prone to be climbing the leaderboard on Saturday.
🤠 Undoubtedly a Dutton:
Photograph by Tilly Berendt.
At the moment’s Check:
Azure actually is gorgeous. An actual image. Phillip takes an additional circle earlier than getting into the ring they usually’re lifeless straight down the middle line. Sky appears very match as she will get going into her trot work. She’s obtained pretty rhythm and she or he appears smooth within the connection. She’s very highly effective and expressive in her actions – there’s a lot potential on present.
Sky exhibits a bit stress within the stroll, she’s trying a bit buzzy. Phillip’s sitting very quietly. He’s managing to maintain Sky to a stroll, solely simply, however it’s stroll. The halt at C could be very sq..
Phillip must be a bit tentative cantering down the lengthy facet, he’s using actually sensibly to maintain a lid on Sky’s pleasure with out shedding marks. Sky’s behaving very properly and answering the questions he’s asking. Phillip doesn’t let the rein out an excessive amount of within the stretch circle, however Sky is smooth in her physique on the entire.
They end up with a sq. halt and Sky exhibits simply how a lot pleasure she’s been holding beneath wraps as there’s an enormous cheer from the gang. She will get a giant pat from Phillip. General there was a lot potential on present right here, and lots of power and energy that can stand them in good stead tomorrow.
Phillip Dutton and Azure rating 37.4.
3:47pm ET
Boyd Martin and On Cue (USA)
Information and Type:
5⭐ kind – This pair had been 4th within the 5* right here in 2021 after which received at Maryland the place they completed on their dressage of 25. They had been high 10 at Burghley final season. In all the begins on the degree, they’ve by no means completed exterior the highest 10.
2️⃣3️⃣ Boyd is at present sitting in 2nd on the USEA leaderboard and is ranked third on the earth. He took residence a crew silver medal from the World Championships in Pratoni and has two Pan-Ams crew golds and a person title to his identify.
🛀 It’s no secret that Boyd is a fan of a nippy dip, however have you ever ever puzzled the place his love of ice baths comes from? Maybe it’s within the genes Boyd’s dad and mom met on the Winter Olympics – his mother competed in velocity skating ⛸️ and his dad in cross-country snowboarding ⛷️ In order that’s why he’s so speedy throughout the nation!
🤖 This 18-year-old has only a single XC leaping penalty on her report from 22 FEI competitions.
Final season they had been third within the fall version of the 4*-S at Bromont, the place they topped the rostrum in the summertime.
They put down a 31.Eight at Burghley final season. Their earlier 5* scores within the first part had been each sub-30 although – a 25 at Maryland and 27 right here at Kentucky in 2021. Eyes on!
On Cue’s already a 5* winner, is she on cue so as to add one other to her card?:
Photograph by Abby Powell.
At the moment’s Check:
Cue and Boyd imply enterprise for positive. They halt lifeless sq. and transfer off fluidly into trot. Cue’s so appropriate in her steps, there’s pretty steadiness and rhythm to her trot. She’s mild on her toes within the medium and this all appears very straightforward for this stunning mare.
It is a large, lengthy horse however Boyd holds her collectively brilliantly so she will ship her greatest work. It’s simply so comfy to observe this pair. There’s a tiny second when she has a bit go searching within the stroll, however she’s again shortly and really relaxed, stepping out actually properly for Boyd.
The halt and reinback are glorious, so cautious and clear. Boyd’s using for each mark – so precisely – and Cue is responding superbly. This take a look at isn’t so extravagant as these on the high of the leaderboard, but it surely’s clear and smooth and so settled, it actually is beautiful to see this partnership in motion.
Cue hasn’t put a foot misplaced all through this take a look at. They end in a straight halt to a cheer from the gang. An actual pretty show of a horse and rider precisely on the identical web page.
Boyd Martin and On Cue rating 32.2.
3:39pm ET
Doug Payne and Camarillo (USA)
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5⭐ first-timer! Camarillo, not Doug. At ten, Camarillo is likely one of the youngest horses right here.
🥇 Doug received crew gold on the 2019 Pan-Ams and was individually 16th on the Tokyo Olympics with Vandiver. He was third right here at Kentucky together with his different trip within the 5* Quantum Leap in 2022, and has an extra three high 10 5* finishes on his card.
They had been 18th within the 4*-S at Steady View earlier this month and 26th at Carolina Worldwide. They had been high 20 right here final yr within the 4*-S.
Their dressage scores vary from the low to high-30s. Of their two 4* runs this season they’ve posted a 32.Four and 34.4.
Camarillo positive is one placing grey:
Photograph by Shannon Brinkman Pictures.
At the moment’s Check:
Camarillo appeared fairly scorching after we noticed him within the heat up earlier. Doug takes his time after the bell rings. However he’s trying pretty relaxed as he canters up the middle line they usually begin off with a sq. halt. Camarillo’s fussing round with the bridle a bit bit and Doug’s doing a terrific job to maintain him targeted. His trot steps are pretty and there’s a lot scope on this horse’s motion. He’s truly very relaxed in his physique, regardless of the fussiness in his mouth.
The stroll is a bit tentative and there are a few unbalanced steps at occasions. It stays relaxed by way of. Not a lot within the reinback, Camarillo’s head comes up and he hollows a bit for step one, however listens when Doug asks him to drop his head and it finishes higher than it began.
Doug’s not in a position to push down the lengthy facet in canter, he’s using for the marks he can get however can’t let the lid off his actually. Camarillo’s answering the questions he’s being requested although on the entire, a couple of bobbles within the connection right here and there.
General, this take a look at exhibits a good bit of potential and Doug rewards Camarillo with a giant pat on the finish. Some pretty work, some bobbles. A variety of tactful using.
Doug Payne and Camarillo rating 38.
3:31pm ET
Tom McEwen and JL Dublin (GBR)
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5⭐ kind – ‘Dubs’ made the journey to Kentucky final season and got here 2nd, including simply 5.2 XC time penalties to his dressage rating. He adopted that up with third place at Pau later within the yr.
Dubs was European Champion as a 10-year-old in 2021 with Nicola Wilson, when he completed on his dressage rating of 20.9.
🥇🥈 Tom took residence crew gold and particular person silver medals from Tokyo with Toldeo de Kerser.
Tom stays 5* match by working (apparently he runs ‘spherical cross nation programs, in addition to placing in a extra detailed stroll, in fact). He’s even run the London Marathon in help of Alzheimer’s Analysis UK.
They arrive right here in scorching kind ️ having received the 4*-S at Kronenberg, Netherlands final month on a ending rating of 27.3.
This man is ONE TO WATCH Dubs is the joint-best dressage horse within the discipline (tied with Yasmin Ingham’s Banzai du Loir). We’re not simply speaking sub-30 right here, we’re speaking low-20s, for positive with the potential to even go into the teenagers. They put down a 20.9 in Kronenberg, matching his career-best consequence. He scored 23.1 within the first part at Pau final season, and 22.6 right here in Kentucky.
Twinkle toes:
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A submit shared by Tom McEwen (@tommceweneventing)
At the moment’s Check:
Dubs appears nice as he canters up the middle line and Tom positively appears to imply enterprise. That is such a cultured mixture. And so they exit to impress proper from the off with a beautiful prolonged trot – so highly effective and massive and expressive. Very excessive marks incoming.
There’s such suppleness on this horse and his actions are so flowing and rhythmical. And Tom rides his checks as precisely because it’s potential to be – he’s pushing for each single mark and is being rewarded with large ones.
Dubs has a very nice swing within the stroll, each step is fluid and proper. The halt at C is superb and the reinback appears straightforward. They’re clean and fluid into canter. That is the gorgeous take a look at we had been hoping for, thus far.
Dubs actually appears rideable and so very, very comfy in all the things Tom is asking for. He pushes for the prolonged canter after which Dubs comes straight again. Tom simply has to melt the rein within the stretch circle and Dubs takes it ahead and down. They are surely an image of concord.
They end up in a very sq. halt, and there’s an enormous cheer from the gang in appreciation of such glorious work. Tom is tremendous relaxed as he walks out of the ring with Dubs on the buckle finish. There’s numerous cheers and applause from the gang. This actually was a beautiful instance of eventing dressage.
Tom McEwen and JL Dublin rating 24.6 and go storming into the lead!
3:23pm ET
James Alliston and Karma (USA)
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5⭐ first-timer! At 10, Karma is likely one of the youngest horses right here.
We love an eventing marriage ceremony and James didn’t disappoint, marrying fellow eventer Helen at Galway Downs in 2019.
🪜 Leaderboard climb incoming! This mare is a leaping machine! From her Eight worldwide runs, she’s had no XC leaping penalties and time faults on only one event; within the present leaping ring she’s had one single pole.
This mixture headed over to the Netherlands final season to compete within the Nations Cup at Boekelo, the place she completed on her dressage rating of 35.9 for 14th place, serving to the USA to say crew 4th.
They have a tendency to development low to mid-30s within the first part.
Knees up and ears ahead:
Photograph by Tilly Berendt.
At the moment’s Check:
Karma was USEA Mare of the 12 months final yr. She’s actual stunning. She’s obtained lots of vitality and James should preserve that on observe between the white boards.
They get off to a pleasant begin and Karma’s being good for James. There’s a tiny lack of steadiness at occasions within the trot work, partly as a result of she’s obtained a lot energy. However there’s lots of very good work occurring.
There’s a bit bobble within the nook and it appears as if there’s a little bit of stress creeping in. Karma appears to have seen the large environment within the enviornment. She does chill out at the start of the stroll although. She’s a bit fussy within the bridle, displaying that stress, however she is strolling cleanly.
She’s able to go off into canter when James asks for the reinback, however she does hearken to him. She’s happier in canter and is settling in now. James is doing a stunning job using the horse that’s beneath him, he’s actually sympathetic and smooth.
There’s not lots of stretch within the circle however Karma is trying extra relaxed in direction of the top of their take a look at. They end up with a pleasant halt and Karma will get pat on the neck. Plenty of potential on present right here.
James Alliston and Karma rating 38.3.
3:15pm ET
Elisabeth Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker (USA)
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5⭐ first-timer! Cooley Nutcracker, not Liz! Liz was third right here final yr with Miks Grasp C. Cooley Nutcracker is considered one of 4 10-year-olds competing right here.
3️⃣ Liz is at present sitting in third place on the USEA leaderboard.
🥈 She received crew silver on the Pan-Ams final season.
This mixture took fifth place within the 4*-S at Carolina Worldwide this season, the place they added simply 4.Eight XC time penalties to their rating. 11 penalties for activating a frangible gadget within the 4*-S at Steady View earlier this month noticed them end up in 20th place. Final season they received the 4*-L at Galway Downs and Mill Spring and had been 2nd within the 4*-S at Morven Park. They had been ninth within the 4*-S right here at Kentucky.
At 4* they development within the mid to high-20s, however this flashy gelding is properly able to a low-20s take a look at as he confirmed on his strategy to 2nd place at Morven Park the place he put down a 22.6. He scored 24.5 right here on the Horse Park within the 4*-S final season. Eyes on this one!
Massive pats and a PB within the dressage right here final yr within the 4*-S:
Photograph by Tilly Berendt.
At the moment’s Check:
Liz and Nutcracker are actually straight at they canter up the middle line. The halt is sweet to start however there’s a little bit of a step sideways. Purchase boy, can this man trot! It’s superbly cadent and has such beautiful motion. Scores coming in are very excessive. This horse is so smooth and supple which he exhibits off within the lateral actions. They’re comfortably within the lead when it comes to the scores coming in at the beginning of the take a look at.
Cooley Nutcracker is admittedly listening to Liz and could be very comfy in his work. The stroll could be very safe till there’s a bit spook on the digital camera. It’s tiny although and he’s straight again into some very, very good stroll work for tons extra glorious scores.
Wow the halt at C is nice, and the reinback could be very safe. They go off into canter and there’s a bit inexperienced second, however Liz is straight on it and using excellently, in fact. Cooley Nutcracker settles into the canter and exhibits off simply how good he’s in any respect three paces.
There’s a lot energy on present, a bit an excessive amount of within the adjustments actually. Liz appears a bit pissed off on the finish of the take a look at, most likely being a bit exhausting on herself. They get an enormous cheer. There’s a pleasant pat for Cooley Nutcracker. Goodness, that is an thrilling younger horse.
Elisabeth Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker rating 30.6 to enter equal second.
2:58pm ET
We’re heading into a brief break now. Again in simply over 15 minutes – at 3:15pm ET / 9:15pm CEST after we’ll wrap up the dressage at Defender Kentucky Three-Day Occasion with the ultimate six rivals and see who’ll be going out onto tomorrow’s cross nation as chief of the pack.
2:50pm ET
Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus (USA)
Information and Type:
5⭐ kind – This 17-year-old made his 5* debut right here again in 2017 and has since been to seven extra top-level occasions. In 2018 he was fifth right here on the Horse Park, including only a smidge of time to his dressage rating. He was high 10 at Kentucky and Burghley in 2019, 16th right here in 2019 and 12th at Maryland, and 4th at Luhmuhlen in 2022.
🥈 Lauren and ‘Bug’ had been crew silver medalists on the World Championships in Pratoni.
🤩 Lauren began out as a working scholar for David and Karen O’Connor.
Bug sat out final season and got here again this yr for the 4*-S at TerraNova the place he was 14th.
At Luhmuhlen in 2022 he put down a 26.7 within the dressage. He’s additionally been sub-30 at Burghley and Kentucky, and really practically at Maryland, the place he posted a 30.7 in 2021. On the World Championships in Pratoni he scored 27.1. Eyes on this one
🧀 Say, “Cheese”!
Photograph by Tilly Berendt.
At the moment’s Check:
Bug will get straight to enterprise with a sq. halt to start out. He’s obtained his ears pricked as he trots ’around the ring. The whole lot’s in such pretty steadiness and there’s numerous cadence in his steps. Lauren’s using actually precisely, in fact, and displaying Bug off to his greatest.
This pair actually do make a stunning image collectively, they’re such a crew. Bug is clearly properly inside himself in his work, all the things appears very easy. He’s very relaxed within the stroll and steps out actually properly. He simply steps sq. within the halt after which stunning diagonal pairs within the reinback – tremendous work on present right here.
They get into canter and it’s extra of the identical – actually pretty to observe and a horse who clearly is aware of his job. The flying adjustments are tremendous correct, expressive however balanced and clear. There’s a momentary mistake within the closing likelihood, it’s clear however not fairly on the proper time. However my, the stretch circle is sweet, he takes his nostril out and down and is admittedly relaxed.
They arrive again up the middle line and there’s an enormous cheer as they halt. Bug appears ’spherical to acknowledge his applause. Lauren appears delighted with him. There’s even larger cheers as Bug exhibits off as they stroll out of the ring. Nice work Bug.
Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus rating 30.6. and go into 2nd place!
2:42pm ET
Rebecca Braitling and Caravaggio II (AUS)
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5⭐ first-timer! ‘Ernie’ not Bec – in truth, Bec made her 5* debut in 2003 at Adelaide. She’s again after a 21 yr hiatus, now based mostly within the US and able to tackle Kentucky.
The primary time she sat on Ernie she simply knew she needed to take him to Kentucky, and right here they’re!
🪜 We are able to count on a hustle for a leaderboard climb on Saturday for this pair – in 20 FEI competitions collectively, they’ve only one 20 on their XC report.
They had been third within the 4*-S at Galway Downs final month.
We’re mid to high-30s within the dressage at 4*.
Smiles all spherical:
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A submit shared by Bec Braitling (@boobraitling)
At the moment’s Check:
Bec and Ernie halt and salute simply because the solar beams down on them – that is one shiny horse! It is a very large horse, actually spectacular. He’s a bit wobbly once in a while in his trot work, however he’s a giant man to maintain collectively. His steps are properly expressive and he appears to be very joyful in his work.
He’s properly relaxed within the stroll at the start, however there’s a little bit of a jiggy-jog coming in in direction of the top. A few anxious moments for Bec however she retains a lid on it. She’ll be joyful to get into canter.
Ernie will get a bit pat for reassurance from Bec. He’s happier now he’s in canter however you possibly can inform he’s tremendous match and prepared for cross nation. The adjustments are a bit excited. He doesn’t take the contact ahead within the circle and drops again to trot. He jumps the ultimate change.
They halt to an enormous cheer and Bec appears extremely pleased with the horse. There was quite a bit to love and many potential on present.
Rebecca Braitling and Caravaggio II rating 39.3.
2:34pm ET
Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent (GBR)
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5⭐ kind – This pretty mare made her 5* debut at Luhmuhlen the place a inexperienced mistake cross nation noticed her end in 27th; she got here again out at Maryland and took third.
1️⃣ Oliver is at present World No. 1 and has topped the rostrum right here thrice beforehand.
He’s making his 100th 5* begin right here, solely the third rider ever to rack up a century of top-level showings.
🥇 He received crew gold at Tokyo and was awarded an MBE for his companies to equestrianism by the late Queen of England in 2022.
From 19 FEI competitions, this mare has three wins, 5 second placings and three third place finishes, solely ending exterior the highest 7 on three events. Final season she received the 4*-S for eight- and nine-year-olds at Blenheim, ending on her dressage of 24.7, the one competitor to maintain a clear sheet throughout the board. And he or she’s nonetheless only a 10-year-old!
We are able to actually count on a sub-30 dressage rating, even perhaps touchdown within the low-20s – at Maryland she put down a 23.1. Eyes on this one
Queen Rosie’s prepared for it:
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At the moment’s Check:
Oliver makes his 100th entrance up the middle line in a 5*. He appears like he means enterprise. And so does Rosie, so straight.
Ah, she lifts her head within the halt after which there’s a tiny mistake as they break from the trot within the flip at C. Oliver’s straight on the case although. The scores enhance considerably as this mare settles in. There’s a lot energy within the prolonged, so assured and smooth. They’re completely targeted now, each of them doing the job like professionals.
Rosie exhibits her softness within the stroll and the steps are all so clear and proper. There’s numerous expression, it actually is beautiful. The halt at C’s not fairly sq., only a smidge off. There’s a bit mistake within the reinback too. They strike off into canter and ship an excellent change, after which one other one. The scores are going up once more now.
Oliver rides very boldly as he pushes down the lengthy facet, and Rosie comes straight again when he asks, she’s so adjustable. Oh, there’s a mistake as they head again down in direction of the ultimate heart line. That was a disgrace.
General Rosie for positive confirmed her class right this moment, however there have been a few errors. Plenty of pats for her from Oliver on the finish and he appears happy along with her efforts. Not their greatest rating, however not a nasty one both.
Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent rating31.4.
2:26pm ET
Lillian Heard Wooden and LCC Barnaby (USA)
Information and Type:
5⭐ kind – This stalwart campaigner has made 13 5* begins in his 12 yr profession, with 7 high 20 finishes on his report. He’s on the Horse Park for the third time after making his top-level debut right here again in 2016. He’s no stranger throughout the Pond both, having been to each Badminton and Burghley a number of occasions. He achieved a career-best consequence at Maryland final season, ending high 10.
🤖 At eighteen, he could also be one of many oldest horses right here this weekend, however this man is a complete XC machine! In 42 FEI competitions, he’s had leaping penalties simply 4 occasions.
He was 17th within the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm this season, simply including XC time penalties to his rating.
His greatest rating within the first part, 33, got here at Maryland in 2021; at Badminton final season he put down a 39.5.
This man:
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A submit shared by Lillian Heard Wooden (@lillian.j.heard.eventing)
At the moment’s Check:
I do know I’ve mentioned it numerous occasions, however man I like this horse! They make a straight entrance up the middle line and Barnaby’s will get moving into one more 5*.
Ah, the bell has rung. Lillian’s being spoken to from the judging field. We’re simply ready to seek out out what’s happening. They’ve left the ring now and are strolling out. I’ll replace you as soon as there’s information about what the judges noticed, but it surely appears like we’re going to maneuver onto the following competitor.
The reside leaderboard is displaying them as eradicated.
UPDATE: Right here’s an announcement from Lillian:
“The bottom jury determined right this moment that Barnaby appeared uneven in his take a look at and eradicated me from the competitors. The vets have appeared him over again on the barn and there may be nothing to report. My greatest guess is that stress made him take some brief steps. I’m clearly devastated however I additionally am joyful to have a wholesome, sound horse and if there may be one factor nobody can argue, it’s that Barnaby owes me nothing. I’m right here now to cheer on all my buddies competing and shall be again as a competitor one other day.”
2:18pm ET
Bruce Davidson Jr and Sorocaima (USA)
Information and Type:
5⭐ kind – 2022 noticed them 14th at Maryland and 30th right here. They had been ninth at Maryland final season and 22nd right here in Kentucky. Will they race even additional up the leaderboard this time round? In his 19 FEI begins, he’s had cross nation leaping penalties solely twice, each occasions at Kentucky – Buck’ll be trying to put that proper this weekend.
‘Cam’ had a profitable profession in racing earlier than turning his hoof to eventing, incomes over $80,000 on the observe. He made his eventing debut in 2020.
Their most up-to-date run noticed them end 11th at Bouckaert Farm a final month.
We are able to count on a mid-30s rating within the first part – they put down a 36 at Kentucky final yr and 34.2 at Maryland.
Cam jumps a corgi:
Photograph by Tilly Berendt.
At the moment’s Check:
That is actually a beautiful horse. He appears so spectacular as he canters ’around the ring. They’re good and straight up the middle line however the halt doesn’t fairly come off, only one extra step please Cam. He appears form of like he’s curtseying to the choose at C as Buck salutes.
Cam appears very joyful within the ring as he strikes by way of the trot work. He’s doing all the things Buck asks and making an attempt exhausting. The stroll is equally relaxed and, just like the trot, may very well be larger for the upper marks, however all the things’s correct and proper.
The halt at C is healthier, Buck niggles to get it sq.. they strike off into canter neatly and Cam continues in his quiet approach – correct and clear. They swing barely off heart within the change, but it surely’s true, and the second is healthier. The third change exhibits up a bit little bit of a lack of rhythm within the entrance, it’s by way of behind although and the fourth one is comparable.
He comes again up the middle line and halts to a cheer from the gang. Buck provides him large pats they usually stroll out. Actually, this was a transparent spherical for them. Cam was boy and tried exhausting.
Bruce Davidson Jr and Sorocaima rating 37.
2:10pm ET
Jennie Brannigan and FE Life-style (USA)
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5⭐ kind – This gelding made his 5* debut right here in 2021 and got here 24th; he returned to the Horse Park the next yr for 16th place, and improved that additional final yr when he was 12th. He was fifth at Maryland in 2022, ending on his dressage rating. He’s additionally had a visit over the Pond to Burghley the place he completed 12th and better of the Burghley first-timers.
🦊 ‘Cunning’ generally is a bit quirky and isn’t all the time straightforward on the flat, so 🤞 he’s feeling settled for his take a look at right this moment.
They had been seventh within the 4*-S at Carolina Worldwide this season, the place they added simply 1.6 XC time penalties to their rating.
They put down a PB on the degree at Burghley final yr – 31.1. It was 35.7 right here final time round.
There’s no feeling like finishing your first Burghley:
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Jennie’s asking the gang to remain quiet as she trots Cunning ’around the ring as we anticipate the bell. They make a very straight entry down the middle line. There’s some licking happening – from Cunning not Jennie – however he settles shortly as they get into the trot work.
This horse is so elegant. He strikes superbly and appears actually supple and bouncy. There’s pretty elevation within the trot and Cunning is mild and smooth. The scores are trending greater because the take a look at goes on. There’s numerous suppleness on present within the lateral actions.
Jennie has her trademark smile on her face as they go into the stroll. Cunning is relaxed sufficient all through the stroll though he exhibits that he’s match for cross nation on the finish of the reinback when he actually needs to leap into canter. Jennie brings him again they usually proceed in a pleasant canter, albeit with a bit stress creeping in, only a tiny bit.
There may very well be a bit extra bend within the half passes, however Jennie’s using tactically and ensuring that they get the adjustments. Cunning actually appears joyful in his work and Jennie’s executed an exquisite job.
They halt on the finish and Jennie appears delighted. Cunning will get an infinite pat and Jennie’s grinning. She waves to the gang. A variety of very good work on present all through this take a look at, and nice using from Jennie.
Jennie Brannigan and FE Life-style rating 37.
1:58pm ET
We’re heading into a brief break now. Again in simply over 10 minutes – at 2:10pm ET / 8:10pm CEST.
1:48pm ET
Andrew McConnon and Ferrie’s Cello (USA)
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5⭐ kind – ‘Eddy’ made his 5* debut final season at Maryland the place they completed 13th.
This gelding is a YEH graduate, profitable the qualifier at Carolina Horse Park and happening to be Reserve Champion on the East Coast Championships.
🥈 They represented the US as members of the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Staff that introduced residence a silver medal within the FEI Eventing Nations Cup in Poland final yr.
They had been 14th within the 4*-S at Carolina earlier this season the place they added simply 6 XC time penalties and a present leaping pole to their dressage rating.
We’re low-ish 30s within the first part based mostly on their most up-to-date kind – they scored 33.Four at Maryland and 32.7 at Carolina.
The look of affection:
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It appears form of windy as Andrew and Eddy canter up the middle line. They halt properly however there’s a bit wiggle popping out of it and Eddy comes off the bridle barely. They push on and appear to get issues collectively in a short time although. Eddy’s obtained a terrific uphill body and there’s numerous energy on present. He’s supple within the lateral work – it appears straightforward – and he’s obtained lots of flexibility within the ribcage.
He spooks a bit, at a digital camera it appears like. That appears to start out off a little bit of stress for Eddy, he’s beginning to look moderately nervous as he goes by way of the stroll work – his head’s come up and he’s trying round.
He settles higher as soon as he’s off into canter. Eddy’s nonetheless a bit distracted which exhibits up within the adjustments. Andrew’s actually using the horse beneath him and adapting to Eddy continually. He’s very courageous within the stretch circle and rides nearly on the buckle. They end up with a sq. halt and Andrew has a bit sigh.
Plenty of high quality on present right here, Eddy was tense and looking out spherical however Andrew did a terrific job. That is an thrilling horse and could have grown from this expertise within the Kentucky environment.
Andrew McConnon and Ferrie’s Cello rating 37.7.
1:40pm ET
Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH (GER)
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5⭐ first-timer! D’Accord FRH, not Christoph, who has a end on his dressage rating for 2nd place at Luhmuhlen on his card with Carjatan S.
️ They arrive right here in scorching kind having had a win and a 2nd place already this season.
🥈🥇 Christoph’s no stranger to the Championship podium – he has a European crew silver and a World crew gold to his identify.
🧬 D’Accord is said to final yr’s runner up, JL Dublin – they’ve the identical sire.
They had been 2nd within the 4*-S in Strzegom, Poland this month, including simply 2.Four XC time penalties to their rating. The earlier month they received the three*-S in Luhmuhlen, Germany, the place in addition they added simply 2.Four XC time penalties to their rating. They positive are a speedy pair! They had been individually 12th on the 4*-S Nations Cup in Boekelo on the finish of final season, leaping clear contained in the time within the XC, including only a single pole within the present leaping to their rating.
At 4* we’re low-30s within the first part.
Shining in Strzegom:
Photograph by Tilly Berendt.
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Christoph and D’Accord get their Kentucky underway with a terrific sq. halt. They journey throughout the world within the medium – large scope and motion. This actually is a stunning stamp of a horse. There’s a lot energy and rhythm in his trot work and Christoph is pushing for each mark – he’s actually using bravely.
The stroll isn’t fairly as spectacular because the trot, however D’Accord is relaxed and there’s extra correct using from Christoph. They transfer off into canter and all the things is beginning to look a bit extra protected than earlier. There’s no errors but it surely’s not fairly as wow as in the course of the trot work. We see why when D’Accord has a tiny second, however then he’s proper again with Christoph.
There’s some stress happening beneath the floor. Christoph has simply given D’Accord a bit pat. He retains a lid on it although and there’s a sigh of aid within the halt from Christoph. He appears fairly dissatisfied. The take a look at began off very well and appeared to be an thrilling contender, however there was clearly stress creeping in because it went on. A disgrace as this horse clearly has potential to spare.
Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH rating 34.
1:32pm ET
Joe Meyer and Harbin (NZL)
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5⭐ first-timer! Harbin that’s. Joe’s truly been to Kentucky (in addition to Luhmuhlen, Pau, Badminton and Bughley!) numerous occasions – that is his seventh begin right here.
🧬 Right here’s a cool truth for you… Joe’s mother and pa owned the stallion that sired Mark Todd’s Charisma!
Joe was a part of the Kiwi crew on the Beijing Olympics the place he completed top-25 individually.
This season they had been third within the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm, the place they added simply XC time to their first part rating, however got here again out for the 4*-S TerraNova and needed to bow out of the XC attributable to a technical elimination. They spent a while within the UK final season, the place they had been 21st within the 4*-L at Blenheim, including simply Four XC time penalties to their rating.
At 4* we’re dressage scores starting from the mid to high-30s on the whole, though this pair aren’t averse to dipping a hoof into the 40s typically.
There’s all the time time at an occasion for a bit munch:
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Wow, Harbin appears stunning as he trots ’spherical the skin of the ring ready for the bell. He’s snow white within the Kentucky sunshine. They canter straight up the middle line however then lose the straightness barely within the halt. This horse actually picks his toes up within the trot work, he’s very expressive. He doesn’t all the time have the steadiness to match his steps, however there’s lots of potential on present.
There may very well be extra bend within the lateral work and there’s some lack of rhythm, however Harbin is clearly making an attempt exhausting for Joe. He’s moderately relaxed at the start of the stroll work, however then the strain creeps in. There’s a lack of rhythm and Harbin shortens his neck barely. There’s a tentative halt at C after which Harbin actually exhibits how scorching he’s feeling when Joe asks for the reinback, there’s a little bit of an argument. However he does step again they usually proceed on into canter.
Harbin appears extra settled within the canter work. There are nonetheless some wobbles, and little errors within the adjustments, however there’s a good bit of high quality on present, that is an thrilling prospect for the long run for positive; it’s his first time on the degree.
The ultimate halt could be very good. Harbin appears very match and he confirmed that at occasions within the ring, however there’s quite a bit to love about this horse and it’ll be thrilling to observe him leaping over the following couple of days.
Joe Meyer and Harbin rating 40.4.
1:24pm ET
Mia Farley and Phelps (USA)
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5⭐ kind – This duo burst onto the 5* scene with the one clear contained in the time at Maryland final season, which earned them fifth place on their top-level debut.
Phelps value $1! Critically! At EN we predict he’s value his weight in gold!
This pair are ones to observe on Saturday, that’s for positive. From 16 FEI runs there are zero XC leaping penalties on his report – not a single one.
They had been eighth within the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm final month.
We are able to count on a low-30s rating within the first part – at Maryland they put down a 32.9.
Phelps flew ‘spherical his first 5*:
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Phelps enters the ring and there’s a trot step or two as they arrive into the halt. They get off into their take a look at fortunately although and proper from the beginning appear like a partnership that’s on the identical web page.
Phelps is answering each query Mia asks of hello. He’s clearly making an attempt exhausting for her. This isn’t a horse with the most important motion, however all the things he’s doing is correct and neat. He actually relaxes properly at the start of the stroll. The scores have been rising constantly as this take a look at has progressed. A little bit stress creeps in to the top of the stroll work, and the reinback isn’t as clean because it may have been. They strike off into canter and Phelps is again to trying very joyful in his work.
The adjustments are clear however Phelps comes a bit bit above the bridle typically. He takes the contact within the stretch circle and is admittedly displaying that he’s listening to Mia at this level.
There’s a giant cheer as they halt on the finish of their take a look at. Mia provides Phelps the most important pat. General this was a pleasant demonstration of a horse and rider working properly collectively.
Mia Farley and Phelps rating 33.8.
1:16pm ET
Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Approach (USA)
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5⭐ kind – They had been 16th at Burghley final season and 13th right here at Kentucky. In addition they accomplished in 31st place at Badminton in 2022, and had two 5* finishes in 2021 – Maryland and Kentucky, the place they completed 24th and 14th respectively.
🧬 ‘Mason’ is the product of two eventer dad and mom – Mighty Magic, who received the Seven-12 months-Previous Eventing World Championships in 2011 with Andreas Dibowski (who additionally rode Mason), and Straightaway, a 4* campaigner in her personal proper.
🤖 As we might count on given his parentage, Mason is an out-and-out XC machine. In 25 FEI competitions he has only a single leaping penalty – one.
They had been 20th within the 4*-S at Carolina this season the place they produced a speedy XC spherical, including simply 3.2 time faults to their dressage of 37.4. They rolled two poles within the present leaping to finish on a rating of 48.6.
Mason is what you may safely name, enthusiastic. Will’s problem is preserving all that enthusiasm contained on this part. At Burghley final season they scored the primary 10s of the competitors for a drool-inducing halt, incomes them a career-best sub-30 rating. They put down a 35.1 at Kentucky final yr and a 38.Eight at Badminton in 2022.
There are a couple of folks at Staff EN who’d love a smooch from Mason:
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Mason exhibits off his twinkle toes as he trots across the ring. He’s actually beautiful, and clearly gifted, however boy, does he look scorching (not within the great way). There’s a good bit of tail swishing happening. Will pushes for the prolonged although and Mason actually travels throughout the world.
There’s clearly a good bit of stress happening, however Mason is an efficient boy within the stroll – he’s a bit speedy and his head comes up a bit in locations, however there’s no jigging happening. Mason has a bit go searching within the halt.
They go off into canter and Mason simply needs to get faster and faster. There’s some very electrical trying strides throughout the world and Will does very well to get Mason again. He’s having to trip masterfully to take care of all the thrill that’s effervescent over for Mason.
Mason actually will get increasingly troublesome to maintain a lid on because the take a look at goes on and Will have to be very relieved when he involves the ultimate halt. Mason appears more than happy together with his efforts and clearly can’t anticipate tomorrow’s cross nation. Will appears extremely dissatisfied as he rides away.
Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Approach rating 40.6.
1:08pm ET
Zachary Brandt and Direct Advance (USA)
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5⭐ kind – Zach and ‘Rosco’ accomplished right here final yr in 24th place.
For that completion, he was awarded the James C. Wofford “On the Rise” trophy.
They had been sixth within the 4*-S at TerraNova final month, the place they added simply 3.6 XC time to their dressage of 39.2.
Their greatest 5* dressage consequence was at Maryland in 2022 the place they put down a 35.9; that they had a hoof within the 40s in 2023. They scored 43.5 right here final time round.
#toothpastepants 🪥
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Roscoe appears very relaxed as he canters across the ring ready for the bell. They arrive up the middle line and there’s a couple of trot steps into the halt. They wiggle a bit as they set off however Zach retains issues collectively. Roscoe may present a bit extra bend and suppleness within the lateral work however his trot is good and rhythmical. They’re not pulling within the high marks however all the things is developing precisely. Zach’s actually using Roscoe sympathetically, preserving him relaxed and smooth to the contact.
There’s a bit jiggy-jog beneath the floor of the stroll, it’s clear Roscoe would moderately be cantering.
Ohhh, Roscoe’s waves on the judges when Zach asks for the reinback. However comes straight again for Zach. That’ll have an effect on their marks though it might have made a cool photograph.
Roscoe settles a bit higher as soon as the canter begins. The accuracy’s again on the entire, however the adjustments are difficult for this gelding. The marks aren’t fairly so good as within the trot work, however Roscoe is making an attempt and is answering Zach’s questions.
They halt and Zach appears a bit pensive. General Roscoe did a pleasant job actually, apart from that one second within the halt at C, however he got here again to Zach and labored for him for the remainder of the take a look at.
Zachary Brandt and Direct Advance rating 41.2.
1pm ET
Sharon White and Claus 63 (USA)
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5⭐ first-timer! Claus, not Sharon – in truth, that is the sixth horse Sharon’s introduced as much as 5*.
🥈 Sharon and Claus had been a part of the US crew in on the Pan-Ams in Santiago final season and introduced residence a crew silver medal, ending 10th individually.
They’d an unlucky 20 on the XC within the 4*-S at Carolina this season, which noticed them end in 32nd place. They received the 4*-S at Ocala Worldwide final season, the place they very practically completed on their dressage rating. They’re no strangers to the Horse Park, having competed within the 4*-S in 2022 once they got here 17th.
They’d been trending within the low-30s within the first part at 4*, though they posted a 39.1 at Carolina earlier this season.
Braids for days and a day to recollect right this moment as Claus units out in his first 5*:
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Right here we go – the primary of the day! Sharon makes a really straight entrance and nails the primary halt – a terrific begin to their competitors. Claus actually is a stunning mover, actually bouncy and expressive. The scores are excellent at the beginning of their take a look at. He may present a bit extra bend within the lateral work, however there’s a very nice cadence to his trot. It is a horse and rider who make an actual image collectively.
Claus could be very relaxed within the stroll. He’s not taking large steps, however he’s listening to Sharon properly and doing his greatest. One other pretty halt at C and really obedient within the reinback. Very seamless work from this pair thus far.
They set off neatly into canter and the primary flying change comes simply. The second can also be very tidy. Claus is admittedly in a stunning body and the scores are constant all through this a part of the take a look at. The whole lot’s so correct and thought of, actually displaying what a crew they’re.
Sharon grins on the finish of the take a look at, she appears delighted along with her horse and so she needs to be – this was a stunning take a look at all through, a lot potential on present for this 5* first-time horse.
Sharon White and Claus 63 rating 30.7.
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