Classic Eventing Nation

Overnight leaders in the CCI5* – Britain’s Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

What a day of dressage we had yesterday! The sun was shining on Kentucky and our stars of the show stepped up to the plate. Here’s our top three as things stand:

1️⃣ In pole position after the first day’s dressage is Great Britain’s Yasmin Ingham with Banzai du Loir on a score of 26.
2️⃣ 5 points behind, also from Great Britain, are Kirsty Chabert and Classic VI on 31.
3️⃣ And rounding out the top three, just 0.1 behind, we have Germany’s Malin Hansen-Hotopp with Carlitos Quidditch K on 31.1.

Ready for even more? Oh yes we are!

Here’s a taste of what we’ve got to look forward to today:

🇺🇲 From the US cohort we have the current top 3 on the USEA leaderboard:

1️⃣ Phillip Dutton is here with his stunning mare Azure;
2️⃣ World No. 3 Boyd Martin comes forward with Maryland 5* winner and fourth place finisher here in 2021 On Cue;
3️⃣ Liz Halliday’s exciting talent Cooley Nutcracker is making his 5* debut.

🇬🇧 The Brits are here in force with Olympic team gold and individual silver medalist Tom McEwen back with last year’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 forward Maryland 5* third place finisher Cooley Rosalent.

🇦🇺 The Aussies are represented by 5* rookie combination Rebecca Braitling and Caravaggio II.

🇳🇿 And at the other end of the scale, in the Kiwi camp we have seven-time Kentucky competitor Joe Meyer with his 5* first-timer Harbin.

🇩🇪 Going for Germany this afternoon, we have World Championship team gold medalist Christoph Wahler, who’s been on hot form recently with his ride here this week, 5* first-timer D’Accord FRH.

I kid you not, the field is so totally stacked I could have highlighted them all – and if you’re wishing I had, then you’re in need of EN’s epic Form Guide, which you’ll find right here.

The USA’s Sharon White and Claus 63 will kick off the action today at 1pm ET / 7pm CEST.

If you want to see when your favorites are going, you’ll find the ride times here.

Missed out yesterday? Don’t fret. Catch up with every step from Dressage Day One with the live blog, which you’ll find right here – and read our round-up report here.

Will there be a change at the top after today’s action between the white boards? Who will be heading into the best day of the year as leader of the pack? I’ll be bringing you live updates throughout the afternoon, so keep this page refreshed and watch this space! If you’re catching up with this later and are the type to like things in order, scroll ⬇️ and read ⬆️. If going backwards is more your jam, have at it.

If your appetite for all things Kentucky is as insatiable as ours – all hail the eventing nerds! – we’ve got a whole bunch of content coming your way, and then some. We’ve got more live blogs comin’ at ya – tune in tomorrow for the 4*-S and 5* cross country, and on Sunday for the finale of the 5* show jumping. AS WELL AS THAT we’re posting daily reports from each stage of the competition and we’ve got loads of great IG content happening courtesy of our team on the ground too @goeventing. Click here for all the Kentucky content you can handle.

Let’s turn our attention to the center line, and go eventing!

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

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4:08pm ET
Dressage is done, it’s actually the weekend (kind of) and we’re just one sleep away from The. Best. Day.

Here’s who’s heading out onto tomorrow’s cross country at the head of the pack:

1️⃣ Our clubhouse leader is Great Britain’s Tom McEwen with JL Dublin on a score of 24.6.
2️⃣ Just 1.4 behind, also from Britain, are Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir on 26.
3️⃣ And rounding out the top three we have a pair of Americans – Liz Halliday with Cooley Nutcracker and Lauren Nicholson with Vermiculuson 30.6.

But we all know that eventing’s not a dressage competition. Make sure you’re back with us tomorrow at 9am ET / 3pm CEST when I’ll be live blogging my fingers off for the 4*-S cross country AND the 5* at 1:30pm ET / 7:30pm CEST.

Eyes on for our Dressage Day Two round-up – coming soon. Until then, click here for all the Kentucky content you can handle.

That’s all from the dressage, and all from me for now.
Until tomorrow ENers, go eventing!

3:55pm ET
Phillip Dutton and Azure (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – ‘Sky’ made her 5* debut last season at Maryland but an unfortunate fall means she’s looking for her first top-level completion here this week.
1️⃣ Phillip is currently sitting at the top of the USEA leaderboard.
👀 Watch out for this pair on the cross country on Saturday – the mare has had jumping penalties just once – and that fall at Maryland – in 24 starts!
⏩ Bred and produced to CCI4* level by Irish international eventer Elizabeth Power, Azure joined Phillip’s barn in 2022.
📈 They were 12th in the 4*-S at Stable View earlier this month and 7th at Bouckaert Farm a few weeks ago, adding just XC time to their score on both occasions. Last season they won the 4*-L at Bromont, adding just 0.8 to their dressage of 36.4.
📋 Trending mid-30s in the first phase – they scored 34.2 at Maryland – they won’t be at the top of the pack once dressage is done, but Azure’s seriously impressive cross country jumping record means she’s likely to be climbing the leaderboard on Saturday.

🤠 Definitely a Dutton:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Azure truly is beautiful. A real picture. Phillip takes an extra circle before entering the ring and they’re dead straight down the center line. Sky looks very fit as she gets going into her trot work. She’s got lovely rhythm and she looks soft in the connection. She’s very powerful and expressive in her movements – there’s so much potential on show.

Sky shows a little tension in the walk, she’s looking a little buzzy. Phillip’s sitting very quietly. He’s managing to keep Sky to a walk, only just, but it is walk. The halt at C is very square.

Phillip has to be a bit tentative cantering down the long side, he’s riding really sensibly to keep a lid on Sky’s excitement without losing marks. Sky’s behaving very nicely and answering the questions he’s asking. Phillip doesn’t let the rein out too much in the stretch circle, but Sky is soft in her body on the whole.

They finish up with a square halt and Sky shows just how much excitement she’s been holding under wraps as there’s a massive cheer from the crowd. She gets a big pat from Phillip. Overall there was so much potential on show here, and a lot of strength and power that will stand them in good stead tomorrow.

Phillip Dutton and Azure score 37.4.

3:47pm ET
Boyd Martin and On Cue (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This pair were 4th in the 5* here in 2021 and then won at Maryland where they finished on their dressage of 25. They were top 10 at Burghley last season. In all of the starts at the level, they’ve never finished outside the top 10.
2️⃣3️⃣ Boyd is currently sitting in 2nd on the USEA leaderboard and is ranked 3rd in the world. He took home a team silver medal from the World Championships in Pratoni and has two Pan-Ams team golds and an individual title to his name.
🛀 It’s no secret that Boyd is partial to a nippy dip, but have you ever wondered where his love of ice baths comes from? Perhaps it’s in the genes 👖 Boyd’s parents met at the Winter Olympics – his mom competed in speed skating ⛸️ and his dad in cross-country skiing ⛷️ So that’s why he’s so speedy across the country!
🤖 This 18-year-old has just a single XC jumping penalty on her record from 22 FEI competitions.
📈 Last season they were 3rd in the fall edition of the 4*-S at Bromont, where they topped the podium in the summer.
📋 They put down a 31.8 at Burghley last season. Their previous 5* scores in the first phase were both sub-30 though – a 25 at Maryland and 27 here at Kentucky in 2021. 👀 Eyes on!

On Cue’s already a 5* winner, is she on cue to add another to her card?:

Photo by Abby Powell.

Today’s Test:
Cue and Boyd mean business for sure. They halt dead square and move off fluidly into trot. Cue’s so correct in her steps, there’s lovely balance and rhythm to her trot. She’s light on her feet in the medium and this all looks very easy for this beautiful mare.

This is a big, long horse but Boyd holds her together brilliantly so she can deliver her best work. It’s just so comfortable to watch this pair. There’s a tiny moment when she has a little look around in the walk, but she’s back quickly and very relaxed, stepping out really nicely for Boyd.

The halt and reinback are excellent, so careful and clear. Boyd’s riding for every mark – so accurately – and Cue is responding beautifully. This test isn’t so extravagant as those at the top of the leaderboard, but it’s clean and soft and so settled, it really is lovely to see this partnership in action.

Cue hasn’t put a foot out of place throughout this test. They finish in a straight halt to a cheer from the crowd. A real lovely display of a horse and rider exactly on the same page.

Boyd Martin and On Cue score 32.2.

3:39pm ET
Doug Payne and Camarillo (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! Camarillo, not Doug. At ten, Camarillo is one of the youngest horses here.
🥇 Doug won team gold at the 2019 Pan-Ams and was individually 16th at the Tokyo Olympics with Vandiver. He was 3rd here at Kentucky with his other ride in the 5* Quantum Leap in 2022, and has a further three top 10 5* finishes on his card.
📈 They were 18th in the 4*-S at Stable View earlier this month and 26th at Carolina International. They were top 20 here last year in the 4*-S.
📋 Their dressage scores range from the low to high-30s. In their two 4* runs this season they’ve posted a 32.4 and 34.4.

Camarillo sure is one striking gray:

Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Today’s Test:
Camarillo looked pretty hot when we saw him in the warm up earlier. Doug takes his time after the bell rings. But he’s looking fairly relaxed as he canters up the center line and they start off with a square halt. Camarillo’s fussing around with the bridle a little bit and Doug’s doing a great job to keep him focused. His trot steps are lovely and there’s so much scope in this horse’s movement. He’s actually very relaxed in his body, despite the fussiness in his mouth.

The walk is a little tentative and there are a couple of unbalanced steps at times. It stays relaxed through. Not so much in the reinback, Camarillo’s head comes up and he hollows a bit for the first step, but listens when Doug asks him to drop his head and it finishes better than it started.

Doug’s not able to push down the long side in canter, he’s riding for the marks he can get but can’t let the lid off his really. Camarillo’s answering the questions he’s being asked though on the whole, a few bobbles in the connection here and there.

Overall, this test shows a fair bit of potential and Doug rewards Camarillo with a big pat at the end. Some lovely work, some bobbles. A lot of tactful riding.

Doug Payne and Camarillo score 38.

3:31pm ET
Tom McEwen and JL Dublin (GBR)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – ‘Dubs’ made the trip to Kentucky last season and came 2nd, adding just 5.2 XC time penalties to his dressage score. He followed that up with 3rd place at Pau later in the year.
🏆 Dubs was European Champion as a 10-year-old in 2021 with Nicola Wilson, when he finished on his dressage score of 20.9.
🥇🥈 Tom took home team gold and individual silver medals from Tokyo with Toldeo de Kerser.
👟 Tom stays 5* fit by running (apparently he runs ‘round cross country courses, as well as putting in a more detailed walk, of course). He’s even run the London Marathon in support of Alzheimer’s Research UK.
📈 They come here in hot form 🌶️ having won the 4*-S at Kronenberg, Netherlands last month on a finishing score of 27.3.
📋 This guy is ONE TO WATCH 👀 Dubs is the joint-best dressage horse in the field (tied with Yasmin Ingham’s Banzai du Loir). We’re not just talking sub-30 here, we’re talking low-20s, for sure with the potential to even go into the teens. They put down a 20.9 in Kronenberg, matching his career-best result. He scored 23.1 in the first phase at Pau last season, and 22.6 here in Kentucky.

🕺Twinkle toes:

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A post shared by Tom McEwen (@tommceweneventing)

Today’s Test:
Dubs looks great as he canters up the center line and Tom definitely looks to mean business. This is such a classy combination. And they go out to impress right from the off with a gorgeous extended trot – so powerful and big and expressive. Very high marks incoming.

There’s such suppleness in this horse and his movements are so flowing and rhythmical. And Tom rides his tests as accurately as it’s possible to be – he’s pushing for every single mark and is being rewarded with big ones.

Dubs has a really nice swing in the walk, every step is fluid and correct. The halt at C is excellent and the reinback looks easy. They’re smooth and fluid into canter. This is the beautiful test we were hoping for, so far.

Dubs really looks rideable and so very, very comfortable in everything Tom is asking for. He pushes for the extended canter and then Dubs comes straight back. Tom just has to soften the rein in the stretch circle and Dubs takes it forward and down. They really are a picture of harmony.

They finish up in a totally square halt, and there’s a massive cheer from the crowd in appreciation of such excellent work. Tom is super relaxed as he walks out of the ring with Dubs on the buckle end. There’s lots of cheers and applause from the crowd. This really was a gorgeous example of eventing dressage.

Tom McEwen and JL Dublin score 24.6 and go storming into the lead!

3:23pm ET
James Alliston and Karma (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! At 10, Karma is one of the youngest horses here.
💒 We love an eventing wedding and James didn’t disappoint, marrying fellow eventer Helen at Galway Downs in 2019.
🪜 Leaderboard climb incoming! This mare is a jumping machine! From her 8 international runs, she’s had no XC jumping penalties and time faults on just one occasion; in the show jumping ring she’s had one single pole.
📈 This combination headed over to the Netherlands last season to compete in the Nations Cup at Boekelo, where she finished on her dressage score of 35.9 for 14th place, helping the USA to claim team 4th.
📋 They tend to trend low to mid-30s in the first phase.

Knees up and ears forward:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Karma was USEA Mare of the Year last year. She’s real beautiful. She’s got a lot of energy and James will have to keep that on track between the white boards.

They get off to a nice start and Karma’s being good for James. There’s a tiny loss of balance at times in the trot work, partly because she’s got so much power. But there’s a lot of very nice work happening.

There’s a little bobble in the corner and it looks as though there’s a bit of tension creeping in. Karma seems to have noticed the massive atmosphere in the arena. She does relax at the beginning of the walk though. She’s a little fussy in the bridle, showing that tension, but she is walking cleanly.

She’s ready to go off into canter when James asks for the reinback, but she does listen to him. She’s happier in canter and is settling in now. James is doing a lovely job riding the horse that’s underneath him, he’s really sympathetic and soft.

There’s not a lot of stretch in the circle but Karma is looking more relaxed towards the end of their test. They finish up with a nice halt and Karma gets a good pat on the neck. Lots of potential on show here.

James Alliston and Karma score 38.3.

3:15pm ET
Elisabeth Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! Cooley Nutcracker, not Liz! Liz was 3rd here last year with Miks Master C. Cooley Nutcracker is one of four 10-year-olds competing here.
3️⃣ Liz is currently sitting in 3rd place on the USEA leaderboard.
🥈 She won team silver at the Pan-Ams last season.
📈 This combination took 5th place in the 4*-S at Carolina International this season, where they added just 4.8 XC time penalties to their score. 11 penalties for activating a frangible device in the 4*-S at Stable View earlier this month saw them finish up in 20th place. Last season they won the 4*-L at Galway Downs and Mill Spring and were 2nd in the 4*-S at Morven Park. They were 9th in the 4*-S here at Kentucky.
📋 At 4* they trend in the mid to high-20s, but this flashy gelding is well capable of a low-20s test as he showed on his way to 2nd place at Morven Park where he put down a 22.6. He scored 24.5 here at the Horse Park in the 4*-S last season. 👀 Eyes on this one!

Big pats and a PB in the dressage here last year in the 4*-S:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Liz and Nutcracker are really straight at they canter up the center line. The halt is good to begin but there’s a bit of a step sideways. Buy boy, can this guy trot! It’s beautifully cadent and has such exquisite movement. Scores coming in are very high. This horse is so soft and supple which he shows off in the lateral movements. They’re comfortably in the lead in terms of the scores coming in at the start of the test.

Cooley Nutcracker is really listening to Liz and is very comfortable in his work. The walk is very secure until there’s a little spook at the camera. It’s tiny though and he’s straight back into some very, very nice walk work for lots more excellent scores.

Wow the halt at C is great, and the reinback is very secure. They go off into canter and there’s a little green moment, but Liz is straight on it and riding excellently, of course. Cooley Nutcracker settles into the canter and shows off just how good he is at all three paces.

There’s so much power on show, a little too much in the changes really. Liz looks a little frustrated at the end of the test, probably being a bit hard on herself. They get a huge cheer. There’s a nice pat for Cooley Nutcracker. Goodness, this is an exciting young horse.

Elisabeth Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker score 30.6 to go into equal second.

2:58pm ET
We’re heading into a short break now. Back in just over 15 minutes – at 3:15pm ET / 9:15pm CEST when we’ll wrap up the dressage at Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event with the final six competitors and see who’ll be going out onto tomorrow’s cross country as leader of the pack.

2:50pm ET
Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This 17-year-old made his 5* debut here back in 2017 and has since been to seven more top-level events. In 2018 he was 5th here at the Horse Park, adding just a smidge of time to his dressage score. He was top 10 at Kentucky and Burghley in 2019, 16th here in 2019 and 12th at Maryland, and 4th at Luhmuhlen in 2022.
🥈 Lauren and ‘Bug’ were team silver medalists at the World Championships in Pratoni.
🤩 Lauren started out as a working student for David and Karen O’Connor.
📈 Bug sat out last season and came back this year for the 4*-S at TerraNova where he was 14th.
📋 At Luhmuhlen in 2022 he put down a 26.7 in the dressage. He’s also been sub-30 at Burghley and Kentucky, and very nearly at Maryland, where he posted a 30.7 in 2021. At the World Championships in Pratoni he scored 27.1. Eyes on this one 👀

🧀 Say, “Cheese”!

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Bug gets straight to business with a square halt to start. He’s got his ears pricked as he trots ’round the ring. Everything’s in such lovely balance and there’s lots of cadence in his steps. Lauren’s riding really accurately, of course, and showing Bug off to his best.

This pair really do make a lovely picture together, they’re such a team. Bug is clearly well within himself in his work, everything looks really easy. He’s very relaxed in the walk and steps out really nicely. He just steps square in the halt and then beautiful diagonal pairs in the reinback – super work on show here.

They get into canter and it’s more of the same – really lovely to watch and a horse who clearly knows his job. The flying changes are super accurate, expressive but balanced and clean. There’s a momentary mistake in the final chance, it’s clean but not quite at the right time. But my, the stretch circle is good, he takes his nose out and down and is really relaxed.

They come back up the center line and there’s a huge cheer as they halt. Bug looks ’round to acknowledge his applause. Lauren looks delighted with him. There’s even bigger cheers as Bug shows off as they walk out of the ring. Great work Bug.

Lauren Nicholson and Vermiculus score 30.6. and go into 2nd place!

2:42pm ET
Rebecca Braitling and Caravaggio II (AUS)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! ‘Ernie’ not Bec – in fact, Bec made her 5* debut in 2003 at Adelaide. She’s back after a 21 year hiatus, now based in the US and ready to take on Kentucky.
😍 The first time she sat on Ernie she just knew she wanted to take him to Kentucky, and here they are!
🪜 We can expect a hustle for a leaderboard climb on Saturday for this pair – in 20 FEI competitions together, they have just one 20 on their XC record.
📈 They were 3rd in the 4*-S at Galway Downs last month.
📋 We’re looking at mid to high-30s in the dressage at 4*.

😁 Smiles all round:

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A post shared by Bec Braitling (@boobraitling)

Today’s Test:
Bec and Ernie halt and salute just as the sun beams down on them – this is one shiny horse! This is a very big horse, really impressive. He’s a little wobbly every now and then in his trot work, but he’s a big guy to keep together. His steps are nicely expressive and he looks to be very happy in his work.

He’s nicely relaxed in the walk at the beginning, but there’s a bit of a jiggy-jog coming in towards the end. A couple of anxious moments for Bec but she keeps a lid on it. She’ll be happy to get into canter.

Ernie gets a little pat for reassurance from Bec. He’s happier now he’s in canter but you can tell he’s super fit and ready for cross country. The changes are a bit excited. He doesn’t take the contact forward in the circle and drops back to trot. He jumps the final change.

They halt to a massive cheer and Bec looks incredibly happy with the horse. There was a lot to like and lots of potential on show.

Rebecca Braitling and Caravaggio II score 39.3.

2:34pm ET
Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent (GBR)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This lovely mare made her 5* debut at Luhmuhlen where a green mistake cross country saw her finish in 27th; she came back out at Maryland and took 3rd.
1️⃣ Oliver is currently World No. 1 and has topped the podium here three times previously.
💯 He’s making his 100th 5* start here, only the third rider ever to rack up a century of top-level showings.
🥇👑 He won team gold at Tokyo and was awarded an MBE for his services to equestrianism by the late Queen of England in 2022.
📈 From 19 FEI competitions, this mare has three wins, five second placings and three third place finishes, only finishing outside the top 7 on three occasions. Last season she won the 4*-S for eight- and nine-year-olds at Blenheim, finishing on her dressage of 24.7, the only competitor to keep a clean sheet across the board. And she’s still just a 10-year-old!
📋 We can certainly expect a sub-30 dressage score, perhaps even landing in the low-20s – at Maryland she put down a 23.1. Eyes on this one 👀

🌹 Queen Rosie’s ready for it:

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A post shared by Oliver Townend Official (@olivertownendofficial)

Today’s Test:
Oliver makes his 100th entrance up the center line in a 5*. He looks like he means business. And so does Rosie, so straight.

Ah, she lifts her head in the halt and then there’s a tiny mistake as they break from the trot in the turn at C. Oliver’s straight on the case though. The scores improve significantly as this mare settles in. There’s so much power in the extended, so confident and soft. They’re totally focused now, both of them doing the job like pros.

Rosie shows her softness in the walk and the steps are all so clean and correct. There’s lots of expression, it really is lovely. The halt at C’s not quite square, just a smidge off. There’s a little mistake in the reinback too. They strike off into canter and deliver a very good change, and then another one. The scores are going up again now.

Oliver rides very boldly as he pushes down the long side, and Rosie comes straight back when he asks, she’s so adjustable. Oh, there’s a mistake as they head back down towards the final center line. That was a shame.

Overall Rosie for sure showed her class today, but there were a couple of mistakes. Lots of pats for her from Oliver at the end and he seems pleased with her efforts. Not their best score, but not a bad one either.

Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent score31.4.

2:26pm ET
Lillian Heard Wood and LCC Barnaby (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This stalwart campaigner has made 13 5* starts in his 12 year career, with 7 top 20 finishes on his record. He’s at the Horse Park for the third time after making his top-level debut here back in 2016. He’s no stranger across the Pond either, having been to both Badminton and Burghley multiple times. He achieved a career-best result at Maryland last season, finishing top 10.
🤖 At eighteen, he may be one of the oldest horses here this weekend, but this guy is a total XC machine! In 42 FEI competitions, he’s had jumping penalties just four times.
📈 He was 17th in the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm this season, just adding XC time penalties to his score.
📋 His best score in the first phase, 33, came at Maryland in 2021; at Badminton last season he put down a 39.5.

😍 This guy:

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A post shared by Lillian Heard Wood (@lillian.j.heard.eventing)

Today’s Test:
I know I’ve said it a number of times, but man I love this horse! They make a straight entrance up the center line and Barnaby’s gets going in yet another 5*.

Ah, the bell has rung. Lillian’s being spoken to from the judging box. We’re just waiting to find out what’s going on. They’ve left the ring now and are walking out. I’ll update you once there’s news about what the judges saw, but it looks like we’re going to move onto the next competitor.

The live leaderboard is showing them as eliminated.

UPDATE: Here’s a statement from Lillian:
“The ground jury decided today that Barnaby looked uneven in his test and eliminated me from the competition. The vets have looked him over back at the barn and there is nothing to report. My best guess is that tension made him take some short steps. I am clearly devastated but I also am happy to have a healthy, sound horse and if there is one thing no one can argue, it is that Barnaby owes me nothing. I am here now to cheer on all my friends competing and will be back as a competitor another day.”

2:18pm ET
Bruce Davidson Jr and Sorocaima (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – 2022 saw them 14th at Maryland and 30th here. They were 9th at Maryland last season and 22nd here in Kentucky. Will they race even further up the leaderboard this time around? In his 19 FEI starts, he’s had cross country jumping penalties only twice, both times at Kentucky – Buck’ll be looking to put that right this weekend.
🏇 ‘Cam’ had a successful career in racing before turning his hoof to eventing, earning over $80,000 on the track. He made his eventing debut in 2020.
📈 Their most recent run saw them finish 11th at Bouckaert Farm a last month.
📋 We can expect a mid-30s score in the first phase – they put down a 36 at Kentucky last year and 34.2 at Maryland.

🐕 Cam jumps a corgi:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
This is truly a gorgeous horse. He looks so impressive as he canters ’round the ring. They’re nice and straight up the center line but the halt doesn’t quite come off, just one more step please Cam. He looks kind of like he’s curtseying to the judge at C as Buck salutes.

Cam seems very happy in the ring as he moves through the trot work. He’s doing everything Buck asks and trying hard. The walk is equally relaxed and, like the trot, could be bigger for the higher marks, but everything’s accurate and correct.

The halt at C is better, Buck niggles to get it square. they strike off into canter neatly and Cam continues in his quiet way – accurate and clean. They swing slightly off center in the change, but it’s true, and the second one is better. The third change shows up a little bit of a loss of rhythm in the front, it’s through behind though and the fourth one is similar.

He comes back up the center line and halts to a cheer from the crowd. Buck gives him big pats and they walk out. Really, this was a clear round for them. Cam was a good boy and tried hard.

Bruce Davidson Jr and Sorocaima score 37.

2:10pm ET
Jennie Brannigan and FE Lifestyle (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This gelding made his 5* debut here in 2021 and came 24th; he returned to the Horse Park the following year for 16th place, and improved that further last year when he was 12th. He was 5th at Maryland in 2022, finishing on his dressage score. He’s also had a trip over the Pond to Burghley where he finished 12th and best of the Burghley first-timers.
🦊 ‘Foxy’ can be a bit quirky and isn’t always easy on the flat, so 🤞 he’s feeling settled for his test today.
📈 They were 7th in the 4*-S at Carolina International this season, where they added just 1.6 XC time penalties to their score.
📋 They put down a PB at the level at Burghley last year – 31.1. It was 35.7 here last time around.

😁 There’s no feeling like completing your first Burghley:

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A post shared by Jennie Brannigan (@branniganeventing)

Today’s Test:
Jennie’s asking the crowd to stay quiet as she trots Foxy ’round the ring as we wait for the bell. They make a really straight entry down the center line. There’s some licking going on – from Foxy not Jennie – but he settles quickly as they get into the trot work.

This horse is so classy. He moves beautifully and looks really supple and bouncy. There’s lovely elevation in the trot and Foxy is light and soft. The scores are trending higher as the test goes on. There’s lots of suppleness on show in the lateral movements.

Jennie has her trademark smile on her face as they go into the walk. Foxy is relaxed enough throughout the walk although he shows that he’s fit for cross country at the end of the reinback when he really wants to jump into canter. Jennie brings him back and they continue in a nice canter, albeit with a little tension creeping in, just a tiny bit.

There could be a little more bend in the half passes, but Jennie’s riding tactically and making sure that they get the changes. Foxy really seems happy in his work and Jennie’s done a beautiful job.

They halt at the end and Jennie looks delighted. Foxy gets an enormous pat and Jennie’s grinning. She waves to the crowd. A lot of very nice work on show throughout this test, and great riding from Jennie.

Jennie Brannigan and FE Lifestyle score 37.

1:58pm ET
We’re heading into a short break now. Back in just over 10 minutes – at 2:10pm ET / 8:10pm CEST.

1:48pm ET
Andrew McConnon and Ferrie’s Cello (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – ‘Eddy’ made his 5* debut last season at Maryland where they finished 13th.
🎓 This gelding is a YEH graduate, winning the qualifier at Carolina Horse Park and going on to be Reserve Champion at the East Coast Championships.
🥈 They represented the US as members of the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team that brought home a silver medal in the FEI Eventing Nations Cup in Poland last year.
📈 They were 14th in the 4*-S at Carolina earlier this season where they added just 6 XC time penalties and a show jumping pole to their dressage score.
📋 We’re looking at low-ish 30s in the first phase based on their most recent form – they scored 33.4 at Maryland and 32.7 at Carolina.

😍 The look of love:

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A post shared by Andrew McConnon (@andrewsmcconnon)

Today’s Test:
It looks kind of windy as Andrew and Eddy canter up the center line. They halt nicely but there’s a little wiggle coming out of it and Eddy comes off the bridle slightly. They push on and seem to get things together very quickly though. Eddy’s got a great uphill frame and there’s lots of power on show. He’s supple in the lateral work – it looks easy – and he’s got a lot of flexibility in the ribcage.

He spooks a little, at a camera it looks like. That seems to start off a bit of tension for Eddy, he’s starting to look rather nervous as he goes through the walk work – his head’s come up and he’s looking around.

He settles better once he’s off into canter. Eddy’s still a little distracted which shows up in the changes. Andrew’s really riding the horse underneath him and adapting to Eddy constantly. He’s very brave in the stretch circle and rides almost on the buckle. They finish up with a square halt and Andrew has a little sigh.

Lots of quality on show here, Eddy was tense and looking round but Andrew did a great job. This is an exciting horse and will have grown from this experience in the Kentucky atmosphere.

Andrew McConnon and Ferrie’s Cello score 37.7.

1:40pm ET
Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH (GER)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! D’Accord FRH, not Christoph, who has a finish on his dressage score for 2nd place at Luhmuhlen on his card with Carjatan S.
🌶️ They come here in hot form having had a win and a 2nd place already this season.
🥈🥇 Christoph’s no stranger to the Championship podium – he has a European team silver and a World team gold to his name.
🧬 D’Accord is related to last year’s runner up, JL Dublin – they have the same sire.
📈 They were 2nd in the 4*-S in Strzegom, Poland this month, adding just 2.4 XC time penalties to their score. The previous month they won the 3*-S in Luhmuhlen, Germany, where they also added just 2.4 XC time penalties to their score. They sure are a speedy pair! They were individually 12th at the 4*-S Nations Cup in Boekelo at the end of last season, jumping clear inside the time in the XC, adding just a single pole in the show jumping to their score.
📋 At 4* we’re looking at low-30s in the first phase.

Shining in Strzegom:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Christoph and D’Accord get their Kentucky underway with a great square halt. They travel across the arena in the medium – massive scope and movement. This really is a lovely stamp of a horse. There’s so much power and rhythm in his trot work and Christoph is pushing for every mark – he’s really riding bravely.

The walk isn’t quite as impressive as the trot, but D’Accord is relaxed and there’s more accurate riding from Christoph. They move off into canter and everything is starting to look a little more safe than earlier. There’s no mistakes but it’s not quite as wow as during the trot work. We see why when D’Accord has a tiny moment, but then he’s right back with Christoph.

There’s some tension going on under the surface. Christoph has just given D’Accord a little pat. He keeps a lid on it though and there’s a sigh of relief in the halt from Christoph. He looks quite disappointed. The test started off really well and looked to be an exciting contender, but there was obviously tension creeping in as it went on. A shame as this horse clearly has potential to spare.

Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH score 34.

1:32pm ET
Joe Meyer and Harbin (NZL)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! Harbin that is. Joe’s actually been to Kentucky (as well as Luhmuhlen, Pau, Badminton and Bughley!) a number of times – this is his 7th start here.
🧬 Here’s a cool fact for you… Joe’s mom and dad owned the stallion that sired Mark Todd’s Charisma!
🔥 Joe was part of the Kiwi crew at the Beijing Olympics where he finished top-25 individually.
📈 This season they were 3rd in the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm, where they added just XC time to their first phase score, but came back out for the 4*-S TerraNova and had to bow out of the XC due to a technical elimination. They spent some time in the UK last season, where they were 21st in the 4*-L at Blenheim, adding just 4 XC time penalties to their score.
📋 At 4* we’re looking at dressage scores ranging from the mid to high-30s in general, although this pair aren’t averse to dipping a hoof into the 40s sometimes.

There’s always time at an event for a little munch:

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A post shared by Joe Meyer (@joemeyereventing)

Today’s Test:
Wow, Harbin looks beautiful as he trots ’round the outside of the ring waiting for the bell. He’s snow white in the Kentucky sunshine. They canter straight up the center line but then lose the straightness slightly in the halt. This horse really picks his feet up in the trot work, he’s very expressive. He doesn’t always have the balance to match his steps, but there’s a lot of potential on show.

There could be more bend in the lateral work and there’s some loss of rhythm, but Harbin is obviously trying hard for Joe. He’s reasonably relaxed at the beginning of the walk work, but then the tension creeps in. There’s a loss of rhythm and Harbin shortens his neck slightly. There’s a tentative halt at C and then Harbin really shows how hot he’s feeling when Joe asks for the reinback, there’s a bit of an argument. But he does step back and they continue on into canter.

Harbin looks more settled in the canter work. There are still some wobbles, and little mistakes in the changes, but there’s a fair bit of quality on show, this is an exciting prospect for the future for sure; it’s his first time at the level.

The final halt is very nice. Harbin looks very fit and he showed that at times in the ring, but there’s a lot to like about this horse and it’ll be exciting to watch him jumping over the next couple of days.

Joe Meyer and Harbin score 40.4.

1:24pm ET
Mia Farley and Phelps (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This duo burst onto the 5* scene with the only clear inside the time at Maryland last season, which earned them 5th place on their top-level debut.
💲 Phelps cost $1! Seriously! At EN we think he’s worth his weight in gold!
👀 This pair are ones to watch on Saturday, that’s for sure. From 16 FEI runs there are zero XC jumping penalties on his record – not a single one.
📈 They were 8th in the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm last month.
📋 We can expect a low-30s score in the first phase – at Maryland they put down a 32.9.

Phelps flew ‘round his first 5*:

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A post shared by Mia Farley (@_miafarley)

Today’s Test:
Phelps enters the ring and there’s a trot step or two as they come into the halt. They get off into their test happily though and right from the start look like a partnership that’s on the same page.

Phelps is answering every question Mia asks of hi. He’s obviously trying hard for her. This isn’t a horse with the biggest movement, but everything he’s doing is accurate and neat. He really relaxes nicely at the beginning of the walk. The scores have been increasing consistently as this test has progressed. A little tension creeps in to the end of the walk work, and the reinback isn’t as smooth as it could have been. They strike off into canter and Phelps is back to looking very happy in his work.

The changes are clean but Phelps comes a little bit above the bridle sometimes. He takes the contact in the stretch circle and is really showing that he’s listening to Mia at this point.

There’s a big cheer as they halt at the end of their test. Mia gives Phelps the biggest pat. Overall this was a nice demonstration of a horse and rider working well together.

Mia Farley and Phelps score 33.8.

1:16pm ET
Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – They were 16th at Burghley last season and 13th here at Kentucky. They also completed in 31st place at Badminton in 2022, and had two 5* finishes in 2021 – Maryland and Kentucky, where they finished 24th and 14th respectively.
🧬 ‘Mason’ is the product of two eventer parents – Mighty Magic, who won the Seven-Year-Old Eventing World Championships in 2011 with Andreas Dibowski (who also rode Mason), and Straightaway, a 4* campaigner in her own right.
🤖 As we may expect given his parentage, Mason is an out-and-out XC machine. In 25 FEI competitions he has just a single jumping penalty – one.
📈 They were 20th in the 4*-S at Carolina this season where they produced a speedy XC round, adding just 3.2 time faults to their dressage of 37.4. They rolled two poles in the show jumping to complete on a score of 48.6.
📋 Mason is what you could safely call, enthusiastic. Will’s challenge is keeping all that enthusiasm contained in this phase. At Burghley last season they scored the first 10s of the competition for a drool-inducing halt, earning them a career-best sub-30 score. They put down a 35.1 at Kentucky last year and a 38.8 at Badminton in 2022.

😘 There are a few people at Team EN who’d love a smooch from Mason:

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A post shared by Will Faudree Eventing (@willfaudreeeventing)

Today’s Test:
Mason shows off his twinkle toes as he trots around the ring. He’s truly stunning, and obviously talented, but boy, does he look hot (not in the good way). There’s a fair bit of tail swishing going on. Will pushes for the extended though and Mason really travels across the arena.

There’s clearly a fair bit of tension going on, but Mason is a good boy in the walk – he’s a little speedy and his head comes up a little in places, but there’s no jigging going on. Mason has a little look around in the halt.

They go off into canter and Mason just wants to get quicker and quicker. There’s some very electric looking strides across the arena and Will does really well to get Mason back. He’s having to ride masterfully to deal with all the excitement that’s bubbling over for Mason.

Mason really gets more and more difficult to keep a lid on as the test goes on and Will must be very relieved when he comes to the final halt. Mason looks very pleased with his efforts and obviously can’t wait for tomorrow’s cross country. Will looks incredibly disappointed as he rides away.

Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way score 40.6.

1:08pm ET
Zachary Brandt and Direct Advance (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – Zach and ‘Rosco’ completed here last year in 24th place.
🏆 For that completion, he was awarded the James C. Wofford “On the Rise” trophy.
📈 They were 6th in the 4*-S at TerraNova last month, where they added just 3.6 XC time to their dressage of 39.2.
📋 Their best 5* dressage result was at Maryland in 2022 where they put down a 35.9; they had a hoof in the 40s in 2023. They scored 43.5 here last time around.

#toothpastepants 🪥 👖

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A post shared by Zachary Brandt Equestrian (@zachbrandtequestrian)

Today’s Test:
Roscoe looks very relaxed as he canters around the ring waiting for the bell. They come up the center line and there’s a few trot steps into the halt. They wiggle a bit as they set off but Zach keeps things together. Roscoe could show a little more bend and suppleness in the lateral work but his trot is nice and rhythmical. They’re not pulling in the top marks but everything is coming up accurately. Zach’s really riding Roscoe sympathetically, keeping him relaxed and soft to the contact.

There’s a little jiggy-jog under the surface of the walk, it’s clear Roscoe would rather be cantering.

Ohhh, Roscoe’s waves at the judges when Zach asks for the reinback. But comes straight back for Zach. That’ll affect their marks although it would have made a cool photo.

Roscoe settles a bit better once the canter starts. The accuracy’s back on the whole, but the changes are tricky for this gelding. The marks aren’t quite so good as in the trot work, but Roscoe is trying and is answering Zach’s questions.

They halt and Zach looks a little pensive. Overall Roscoe did a nice job really, except for that one moment in the halt at C, but he came back to Zach and worked for him for the rest of the test.

Zachary Brandt and Direct Advance score 41.2.

1pm ET
Sharon White and Claus 63 (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! Claus, not Sharon – in fact, this is the 6th horse Sharon’s brought up to 5*.
🥈 Sharon and Claus were part of the US team in at the Pan-Ams in Santiago last season and brought home a team silver medal, finishing 10th individually.
📈 They had an unfortunate 20 on the XC in the 4*-S at Carolina this season, which saw them finish in 32nd place. They won the 4*-S at Ocala International last season, where they very nearly finished on their dressage score. They’re no strangers to the Horse Park, having competed in the 4*-S in 2022 when they came 17th.
📋 They had been trending in the low-30s in the first phase at 4*, although they posted a 39.1 at Carolina earlier this season.

Braids for days and a day to remember today as Claus sets out in his first 5*:

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A post shared by Sharon White (@lastfrontierfarm)

Today’s Test:
Here we go – the first of the day! Sharon makes a very straight entrance and nails the first halt – a great start to their competition. Claus really is a lovely mover, really bouncy and expressive. The scores are very good at the start of their test. He could show a little more bend in the lateral work, but there’s a really nice cadence to his trot. This is a horse and rider who make a real picture together.

Claus is very relaxed in the walk. He’s not taking massive steps, but he’s listening to Sharon nicely and doing his best. Another lovely halt at C and very obedient in the reinback. Very seamless work from this pair so far.

They set off neatly into canter and the first flying change comes easily. The second one is also very tidy. Claus is really in a lovely frame and the scores are consistent throughout this part of the test. Everything’s so accurate and considered, really showing what a team they are.

Sharon grins at the end of the test, she looks delighted with her horse and so she should be – this was a lovely test throughout, so much potential on show for this 5* first-time horse.

Sharon White and Claus 63 score 30.7.

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

Photo by Shelby Allen.

Why wait for the actual weekend to kick off #TheBestWeekendAllYear? That’s right, we’re totally here for it, primed and ready for what’s set to be a stupendous celebration of 5* eventing from Kentucky Horse Park.

Coming up over the next two days we’ll see 35 competitors from seven different nations all vying to be at the top of the pack and go out onto Saturday’s cross country as clubhouse leaders. The start list is stacked with talent and we’re in for one heck of a competition, that’s for sure!

Here’s a taste of what we’ve got to look forward to today:

🇺🇲 From the US cohort, the 5* competition sees the current top three on the USEA leaderboard. Going today is No 1️⃣ Phillip Dutton riding 5* first-timer, Quasi Cool.

Also in the mix, and going for another podium place is Doug Payne, who rides 2022 third place finisher Quantum Leap.

🇬🇧 The Brits are back in force with runners-up from the previous two years in the line-up this week. It’ll be Tom McEwen’s turn tomorrow, but today we’ll see reigning World Champions Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir make their pitch to be top of the class.

🇨🇦 The Maple Leaf is represented by Lisa Marie Fergusson and Honor Me, who won highest placed sole owner/rider in 2022.

🇦🇺 2021s winner of the Highest Placed Youngest Rider, Australia’s Ema Klugman, is here with 5* first-timer Bronte Beach.

🇳🇿 In the Kiwi camp, exciting young talent Monica Spencer will bring forward her team bronze winning World Championships partner Artist.

🇮🇪 Susannah Berry and Clever Trick have made the trip from Ireland, hoping to emulate compatriot Austin O’Connor’s Stateside success at Maryland.

🇩🇪 Michael Jung won it for the Germans in 2022, and we’ll see two German riders make their bid today: dubbed ‘the young Jung’ by EquiRatings, Calvin Böckmann is here with 5* first-timer The Phantom of the Opera, joined by Malin Hansen-Hotopp with her 5* debutant Carlitos Quidditch K.

Seriously, the field is so strong I could have picked out all of them to highlight here – and if you’re wishing I had, then you’re in need of EN’s epic Form Guide, which you’ll find right here.

First up the center line this afternoon will be the USA’s Sara Kozumplik and 5* debutant Rock Phantom – they’ll enter the ring at 1:30pm ET / 7:30pm CEST.

If you want to see when your favorites are going, you’ll find the ride times here.

And if, like us, you just can’t get enough of Kentucky, we’ll be bringing you live blogs from both days of the 5* dressage, 4*-S and 5* cross country, and the culmination of the 5* show jumping, as well as daily reports from each stage of the competition, and SO MUCH MORE! Click here for all the Kentucky content you can handle – go on eventing nerds, you know you want to. As if that isn’t enough, we’ve got loads of great IG content happening courtesy of our team on the ground too @goeventing.

I’ll be bringing you live updates throughout the afternoon, so keep this page refreshed and enjoy the ride.

With all that said, let’s kick on and get the party started.
If you’re catching up on this later and like to keep things in order, scroll ⬇️ and read ⬆️. If you’re happy to go backwards through the drawn order, have at it.
Dancing shoes on, ears pricked, and go eventing!

EN’s coverage of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event is presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for all types of horses. Click here to learn more about Kentucky Performance Products.

Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event [Website] [Entries] [Schedule] [Tickets] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [EN’s Coverage]

4:07pm ET
And there we have it. The Best Weekend All Year has begun and we’ve seen some awesome talent on display at Kentucky Horse Park this afternoon.

At this point in the competition:

1️⃣ Sitting pretty in the lead overnight is Great Britain’s Yasmin Ingham with Banzai du Loir on a score of 26.
2️⃣ 5 points behind is another Brit – Kirsty Chabert and Classic VI on 31.
3️⃣ And just 0.1 behind, rounding out the top three, we have Germany’s Malin Hansen-Hotopp with Carlitos Quidditch K on 31.1.

Make sure you’re back with us tomorrow at 12:30pm ET / 6:30pm CEST when we’ll be bringing you the rest of the 5* dressage action and seeing who’ll go out onto Saturday’s cross country in pole position. We’re just two sleeps away from everyone’s favorite day – hooray!

We’ll also have live updates of everything that unfolds out on course in both the 4*-S and the 5* competitions, as well as the conclusion of the 5* on Sunday. And that’s not all! Click here for all the Kentucky content you can handle and keep your eyes peeled for our Dressage Day One round-up – coming soon.

That’s all from between the white boards for today.
Until tomorrow ENers, go eventing!

3:58pm ET
Malin Hansen-Hotopp and Carlitos Quidditch K (GER)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer!
🤖 This gray gelding is a XC machine! He’s completed in all but one of his 32 FEI runs and has had XC jumping penalties on just two occasions.
📈 Most recently they were 22nd in the recent 3*-S competition at Luhmuhlen. Last season they were top 20 in the European Championships, taking silver with the German team. They had a run of great results in Europe on the lead up to the Championships, with two 4th places and two 3rds. In 2022 they won the 4*-L at Blenheim in the UK where they added just 1.2 show jumping time penalties to their dressage of 24.6.
📋 Their score in the first phase at Blenheim was a career-best at the level. At 4* they’re generally high-20s to low-30s. At the Euros they posted a 31.5.

Malin Hansen-Hotopp and Carlitos Quidditch K searching for the Golden Snitch:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Carlitoz Quidditch K looks lovely and bouncy as he trots around the outside of the arena – his ears are pricked and he looks ready for his Kentucky test. This is a really beautiful gray, a lovely stamp of a horse.

Ah, there are a couple of mistakes as they come up the center line, he puts in a couple of changes. But Malin gets a lovely halt and they continue on in better form.

This horse is so powerful. He pushes out in his extended trot and is balanced and smooth. All of this work is rhythmical and the gelding is very solid in the contact. Lots of very nice work on show here.

Carlitos Quidditch K is relaxed in the walk, it’s really easy looking. There’s clear overtracking. The halt is accurate and the strike off into canter is very smooth.

There’s more lovely rhythm and cadence in the canter and the first flying changes are very accurate and score well. He’s very comfortable in his changes.

This horse looks so rideable – he’s consistent and there’s quality in everything he’s producing. The scores are climbing as this test goes on.

Malin’s riding really accurately and this horse is really showing that he knows his job. Everything is flowing and easy and a real pleasant picture.

They finish up with a good halt and Malin looks pleased with her horse’s efforts. A lovely end to the first day of dressage.

Malin Hansen-Hotopp and Carlitos Quidditch K score 31.1.

3:50pm ET
Phillip Dutton and Quasi Cool (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! Quasi Cool, not Phillip.
🥇🥇 🥉 Phillip has won Olympic team gold twice for Australia and individual bronze for the US.
🥇🥇🥈 He’s also won two Pan-Ams team golds and an individual silver.
🎾⛳ As well as in the barn, you can catch Phillip on the tennis court and golf course.
⏩ Quasi Cool came to Phillip’s string from Germany’s Dirk Schrade for the 2021 season.
🧬 He’s by the same sire as Calvin Böckmann’s ride, The Phantom of the Opera, who we saw a little earlier.
📈 They were 15th in the 4*-S at Stable View recently, where they added just XC time to their score. They were 4th in the 4*-L at Bromont in 2022 and 2nd here in the 4*-S the same season.
📋 They have 4* form from the mid-20s to the mid-30s in the first phase. Last time out it was 35.8.

Not just a one-trick pony – Quasi Cool winning the $20,000 Mad Barn Indoor Eventing Challenge last year:

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Today’s Test:
Quasi Cool got off to a nice start but then have a bit of a blip out of the halt. Phillip’s straight on it though and gets him back and they continue on with a nice enough trot.

There’s a little tension showing up in Quasi’s neck, but the steps are all accurate and correct and Phillip’s riding for every mark. The tension continues in the walk, there’s a little inconsistency in the contact which shows there’s some discussion happening.

Quasi steps very carefully in the reinback, it’s a little sticky. But he is doing everything that Phillip’s asking.

The canter work is a lot happier. He’s settling now and moving more freely. Phillip’s having to ride a little carefully and can’t push for the top marks, but everything’s coming up accurately for him. The scores are very consistent throughout the canter work.

They finish up with a good enough halt and Quasi gets a pat. Phillip’s rather serious looking as he leaves the arena, maybe a little disappointed. This was a very accurate test overall, except for the little wobble at the start.

Phillip Dutton and Quasi Cool score 33.8.

3:36pm ET
We’re heading into a short break now. Back in almost 15 minutes – at 3:50pm ET / 9:50pm CEST when we’ll wrap up today’s dressage with the final two competitors.

3:28pm ET
Lisa Marie Fergusson and Honor Me (CAN)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This 18-year-old gelding made his debut at the level here in Kentucky back in 2016. Since then he’s been to the Horse Park every year bar the Covid one and last year, with two top 20 finishes. He’s also been to Maryland twice, both times being withdrawn before the Second Horse Inspection.
📈 This season they were 21st in the 4*-S at Stable View and withdrew from the 4*-S after dressage at Bouckaert Farm.
📋 We’re expecting at least high-30s in the first phase – they posted a 37.1 in their last 5* run at Maryland – although they’re not averse to dipping a hoof or two into the 40s.

At 18, ‘Tali’ knows what this 5* lark’s all about:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Tali canters straight up the center line but there’s a bit of a wobble into the halt. He trots off nicely though and looks to be very happy to be center stage at Kentucky.

Tali’s working hard for Lisa Marie, he’s playing with the bit – we can see his tongue, but he’s doing the movements he’s asked to do and everything is accurate.

Tali’s still sticking his tongue out as he enters the walk work. Lisa Marie’s being really soft in her hands to hep him to settle in his mouth. That tension comes out in the reinback a bit. But the canter seems a little more settled, albeit still with the licking.

The canter is a similar story to the trot, it’s active and accurate but a little tense. He’s obviously full of beans for the jumping phases, but he’s doing everything Lisa Marie asks. She can’t push, but they’re delivering all of the movements.

They come back up the center line and Tali doesn’t quite hold his feet still in the halt. He’s looking round at the crowd as they finish looking extremely pleased with himself. Enjoy it Tali, Kentucky’s watching!

Lisa Marie Fergusson and Honor Me score 42.1.

3:20pm ET
Bobby Meyerhoff and Lumumba (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This mare made her 5* debut at Maryland last season, finishing 14th.
🤩 Bobby began his eventing journey in the Pony Club aged nine, going on to train with Stuart Black and Karen and David O’Connor. He’s also worked for show jumper Aaron Vale.
📈 They were 16th in the 4*-S at Carolina this season where they put in a fast clear across the country, twelve faults in the show jumping proved expensive though.
📋 They posted a 39.5 in the first phase at Maryland.

📸 Lumumba sure knows how to work that camera:

Photo by Jenni Autry.

Today’s Test:
Lumumba looks up as he halts at the start of his test, and then wiggles off into trot. There’s a sticky moment when Bobby has to push her forward when she stalls slightly. She settles into her test though and they look to be together as they continue in their trot work.

Lumumba really looks to be trying for Bobby. There’s little bobbles here and there, but she’s listening and doing her best for him. She walks out nicely and seems to be relaxed and happy in her work.

The halt isn’t quite square but it is stationary and the reinback is accurate enough. They strike off into canter and the scores improve slightly. The work in this section is a little more accurate and the first change is very good. She skips the second a little.

Bobby’s really doing a great job of communicating with Lumumba. He’s working with the horse that’s underneath him and riding really empathetically. There’s a little tension creeping in as the test goes on which is showing up particularly in the later changes.

They finish up with a good halt and Bobby gives the mare a nice pat and neck rub. Lumumba looks like she’s tried real hard, and she was a good girl for Bobby. It’s not a phase they’re going to win, but they created a nice picture of a horse and rider that really get on together.

Bobby Meyerhoff and Lumumba score 39.2.

3:12pm ET
Monica Spencer and Artist (NZL)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – They made their 5* debut at Adelaide last season then took to the skies to take on the US, where they contested Maryland and came 7th.
🥉 They were part of the New Zealand squad for the World Championships in Pratoni, which they found out just three days before ‘Max’ flew out to Italy. It was worth the stress though – they took home a team bronze medal and finished 21st individually.
🏇 Max is racing-trained but didn’t actually race – he switched sides early on and Monica has had him since he was a four-year-old after seeing him at his first show and promptly buying him.
📈 They’re sticking in the States for the time being, and taking it by storm! They were 5th in the 4*-S at TerraNova last month and 4th in the 4*-S at Plantation Field last year.
📋 Eyes on this one 👀 They posted a 24 at Adelaide 5* in the first phase and a 25.6 at Pratoni. It was 28.5 at Maryland 5*.

🎨📸 Artist sure makes a pretty picture:

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Today’s Test:
Monica and Artist really make a great start to their test. Artist looks relaxed in the atmosphere and is really listening to Monica – their lovely relationship is clearly on show.

Monica’s riding this test really accurately. Every single movement is purposeful and clean. Artist’s not delivering the biggest movements, but everything is nice and lots of very good marks coming in for them.

Artist is relaxed in the walk, very active and stepping out nicely. Artist doesn’t stand in the halt at the beginning but Monica waits and he stands for her after a second or two.

This pair create a really nice picture in the canter work. It’s forward but very contained and purposeful. For the higher marks, a little more push would be needed, but Monica is riding conservatively to deliver the best Artist can on the day.

The stretch circle is relaxed and Artist comes up into the contact when Monica asks and they finish out their test in much the same way as they started. A clear round for them. Overall this has been a very accurate example of the test and the relationship between this combination is clearly very special.

Monica Spencer and Artist score 31.9.

3:04pm ET
Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir (GBR)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – This pair famously came 2nd to Michael Jung in their first 5* at Kentucky in 2022. They came back last year but an uncharacteristic 20 on XC day saw them finish in 18th. It’s hard to believe that this is just their third 5* start – all of them here at the Horse Park.
🏆 They’re reining World Champions after adding just 1.2 XC time to their dressage of 22 in Pratoni. They were part of the gold medal winning team at last year’s European Championships too.
📈 They came out this season and took 3rd in the 4*-S at Thoresby after rounding off last season with a 2nd in the 4*-L at Blenheim, where they added just a show jumping pole to their dressage of 20.5.
📋 Eyes on this one 👀 Banzai’s the joint-best dressage horse in the field (tied with Tom McEwen’s JL Dublin).They regularly post scores in the very low 20s in the first phase. At Kentucky last year it was a 22.1.

🤩 Banzai sure looks like he’s knows he’s the World Champion in this photo:

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Today’s Test:
Our second British pairing enter the ring and Banzai has a bit of a wobble in the first halt and steps out sideways. He’s straight back on track though and trots off beautifully. The extended is so impressive. There’s such quality in this horse’s movements. Yas pushes forward with power and then Banzai comes straight back to her.

The lateral work is super supple and in perfect balance and rhythm. We’re seeing the highest scores of the afternoon across the board.

Banzai’s really relaxed in the walk work. He’s stepping out and everything’s rhythmical and accurate. The halt isn’t as steady as it could have been for top marks, he anticipates the reinback a tiny bit. Just a bit.

These flying changes are the best we’ve seen so far this afternoon. The marks for the canter are consistently high, and well-deserved. Everything looks easy for Banzai.

He stretches in the circle and then comes back onto the bridle for Yas as they finish up their canter work. The final halt is much better than the first, lovely and square. Banzai looks very pleased with himself and Yas gives him a big neck rub. There’s a cheer as their score comes in…

Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir score 26 and storm straight into the lead.

2:56pm ET
Kirsty Chabert and Classic VI (GBR)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – ‘Betty’ made her 5* debut at Pau in 2019, finishing in 24th before returning in 2022 and ending up a couple of places better. She was vying for a podium there last year but 8 faults in the show jumping dropped her to 6th. She made the trip to Kentucky last year and finished 21st. She’s also went to Badminton in 2022 but was eliminated on the XC. A reroute to Luhmuhlen was a sound decision however – she came 🥈 and finished on her dressage score of 31.1.
🌳 Betty is a bit of a quirky mare – Kirsty rarely does any work in the arena with her, instead she hacks around the New Forest, which seems to keep Betty happy, and sane.
📈 They come here in great form, having taken 3rd place in the 4*-S at Kronenberg in the Netherlands a few weeks ago, where they added just 3.2 XC penalties to their score.
📋 They put down a 32.6 in the first phase at Pau last season and a 30.8 here. They have been sub-30 at 5* with a 29.9 at Pau in 2022.

Betty checking out the Horse Park:

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Today’s Test:
As Tilly regularly points out, Betty is an oil painting of a horse, and she looks beautiful in the Kentucky sunshine. They enter meaning business and go off into a balanced and rhythmical trot that’s supple and light. A great start for them.

Lots of great scores coming in for this pair. There’s gorgeous cadence in their movements and Betty’s really listening to Kirsty and answering all her questions.

The walk is relaxed at the start but a tiny bit of tension comes in. Kirsty’s able to push for the extended though. There’s a little tension as they turn the corner before the halt, but the halt is accurate and so is the reinback and both score well.

Betty looks to be very happy to be in canter. She’s fully back with Kirsty and listening. The scores aren’t quite as high as for their trot work but they’re very good. Betty really shows her adjustability as Kirsty asks her to extend and then come back, and then really takes the contact forward for the stretch circle.

A tiny mistake coming into the final halt, but there’s huge pats for Betty at the end of the test and Kirsty has a big smile on her face. There’s a cheer from the crowd and it’s well-deserved. This was a really lovely demonstration of horse and rider relationship.

Kirsty Chabert and Classic VI score 31.

2:48pm ET
Doug Payne and Quantum Leap (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – They’ve finished top 10 in five of their six 5* starts, including 3rd here at Kentucky in 2022 where they become the 2022 USEF 5* Eventing National Champions.
👶 Baby Quantum arrived at the Payne yard as a yearling and Doug has brought the gelding up through the levels.
🎓 Quantum is a YEH graduate with a podium place in the Championships as a 4-year-old.
🪜 Expect a leaderboard climb for this pair on Saturday – in 29 FEI runs they have just one – ONE – twenty on their record, and with some smart show jumping form, they may well continue the climb on Sunday.
🛩️ When he’s not piloting horses round cross country courses, Doug pilots his tiny plane to events.
📈 They were 3rd in the 4*-S at Stable View this season, adding just 0.8 XC time to their score. They were 6th in the 4*-S at Carolina this year too, where they finished on their dressage.
📋 They scored 29.5 at Maryland in 2022 – a career best dressage score. We’re more likely to be looking at low-ish 30s though – at Maryland last season they put down a 35.9 and at Kentucky a 33.7.

Quantum is officially the sweetest 5* horse, like ever, as Doug’s little daughter can attest (check out Doug’s IG account for some very cute videos of the pals hanging out together):

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Today’s Test:
Ooo, Quantum is keen as he enters the ring. He thought it was the start box. He does three beautiful flying changes, unfortunately uncalled for. Thankfully Doug gets him right back at almost exactly the point they pass the boards.

Ah, Quantum’s trot is so beautiful. He’s stepping out and has such lovely elevation. There’s a fair bit of tension though so it’s not getting the big marks. He’s a little tight in his neck and a little fussy in the contact. Doug’s doing a wonderful job at keeping him together though.

The walk is a little joggy at times. Quantum is clearly super fit. His connections look to be holding their breath as they watch.

The tension continues in the canter but Quantum’s listening to Doug and everything is accurate, just a bit on the tippy toes.

They finish up with a lovely square halt but Doug looks disappointed at the end of the test. We could clearly see Quantum’s potential but today he was a little too keen in the sandbox. Roll on cross country he says.

Doug Payne and Quantum Leap score 39.9.

2:40pm ET
Calvin Böckmann and The Phantom of the Opera (GER)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer!
🤩 Calvin was dubbed ‘the young Jung’ by EquiRatings.
🧬 ‘Phantom’ is by the same sire as Phillip Dutton’s ride here, Quasi Cool.
🤖 This former Sandra Auffarth ride is a XC machine! In 35 FEI competitions he’s had just one 20 – one! Eyes on this one on Saturday 👀
📈 They were 9th in a strong field in the 4*-S at Strzegom recently.
📋 At 4* we’re looking at low to mid-30s in the first phase.

🎭 Phantom strutting his stuff in Strzegom:

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Today’s Test:
Calvin’s just 23, it’s his birthday on Saturday! What a day to have a birthday, on the best day of the best weekend all year!

He gets his Kentucky off to a great start, coming in looking to mean real business. Phantom looks to be a real pro in his work and is supple and balanced in his trot work. The lateral work is very accurate and scores 7s on the whole.

Phantom’s relaxed in the walk and Calvin’s able to really ride him forwards – they score a 7 for the first medium and another for the extended. There’s a little tension coming through towards the end of the walk work but he produces a very nice halt and reinback and the strike off into canter is very good.

The canter work is very accurate, including the flying changes – they’re some of the best we’ve seen so far.

Everything is smooth and correct and Calvin’s riding for every mark. This horse doesn’t have the big, extravagant movement of some of the horses we’ll see, but everything looks easy and he’s well within himself.

Calvin looks emotional as he gives Phantom a big pat at the end of the test. Overall this was a very clean test, really maturely and accurately ridden. What a start to their Kentucky, and an exciting prospect for the future of German eventing.

Calvin Böckmann and The Phantom of the Opera score 31.4.

2:27pm ET
We’re heading into a short break now. Back in not quite 15 minutes – at 2:40pm ET / 8:40pm CEST.

2:18pm ET
Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – Their 5* debut came at Kentucky in 2019 where they finished 12th, following this up with a trip across the Pond for Burghley later in the season where their top-10 finish made them highest placed first-timers. They returned after the Covid hiatus to claim third place at Luhmuhlen in 2021, then went to Badminton a year later and came 15th.
✨ They also have an 11th individual place at the World Championships in Pratoni on their record, where they were one of just five combinations to finish on their dressage score.
🪜 With just one cross country jumping penalty in sixteen FEI runs since stepping up to 4* in 2018, this pair will be leaderboard climbers on Saturday for sure, and with just two show jumping rails in their last nine internationals, their practice in the 1.40 ring obviously pays off in the final phase.
📈 They were 19th in the 4*-S at Carolina this season, adding just XC time to their score.
📋 They’ve generally scored low to mid-30s in the dressage at 5*.

‘Simon’ showing off his skills in the show jumping ring:

Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:
Simon sure looked excited to be at Kentucky as he pranced down the jog strip yesterday. He is so extravagant, really beautiful and exciting to watch.

He’s bouncy as he sets off in trot after their halt. He’s flicking his toes and showing off. He looks a little hot but Ariel’s holding him together. He’s losing collection every now and then, but has such a beautiful movement. Lots of 6s coming in scores-wise.

The walk is surprisingly relaxed in the early stages – the tension’s still there but Ariel’s holding him together. He gets more tense as the walk continues, a little tight and losing his overtrack. He jiggy-jogs into the halt.

The consensus in the commentary box is that Simon’s looking opinionated. He’s saying, Oh OK, rather than, Hell yeah. He’s saving that for Saturday.

He kicks the boards but that doesn’t bother him. Ariel clearly can’t push in the canter work, Simon’s swishing his tail. He delivers a lovely final halt though for a 7, but Ariel does look a little disappointed. This gelding is so capable of great scores, but today he was keen for cross country. He’s still jiggy-jogging as he leaves the arena and heads down the chute.

Ariel Grald and Leamore Master Plan score 38.2.

2:10pm ET
Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach (AUS)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! Bronte Beach is making her 5* debut here this week.
🇰🇪 Ema started riding as a member of Pony Club in Nairobi, Kenya. She continued her Pony Club journey when she moved to the US, achieving three A level ratings – in traditional, show jumping and dressage – one of only two people in the US to do so.
🍪 As well as an eventer and EN contributor, Ema’s also a law student – she passed the Virginia bar exam just a week or so ago, and has an exam on Monday!
🤖 Bronte Beach is proving to be a XC machine, with just one jumping penalty in 14 FEI competitions.
📈 This combination were 14th in the 4*-S at Stable View earlier this month and 7th in the 4*-L at TerraNova at the end of last season.
📋 We’re likely looking at mid-30s in the first phase; they put down a 35.4 at Stable View.

🏖️ Bronte Beach proving her mettle across the cross country:

Photo by Abby Powell.

Today’s Test:
Not that we’re biased or anything but, go Ema! (Also John Kyle’s just given our Form Guide a shout out!)

Back to Ema – this truly is a big, beautiful mare. They come in meaning business and score 7.2 for their halt and salute.

The trot is beautifully bouncy, such a lovely extravagant step and so much power. She’s really got a huge movement and shows it in the extended walk.

Ah, there’s a bit of a bobble as Bronte Beach goes to set off into canter. Ema’s right on it but the score drops to a 4.5 for the half pass. They’re soon back together though.

Ema’s doing a great job of keeping a lid on the walk, which all comes off accurately. There’s just so much power in this horse. Ema waits and waits for the reinback, waiting for the perfect moment and it works a treat.

The canter work is very rhythmical but the first two changes are both late behind and the scores drop to a 4 and 5.

It’s the same story for the next ones, but the extended canter is super and scores a 7. There’s not a huge amount of stretch in the circle but Ema obviously felt it was more sensible to keep the contact a little.

Ema looks satisfied as she pats Bronte Beach at the end of the test. A whole lotta potential on show here – exciting for the future for sure.

Ema Klugman and Bronte Beach score 36.

2:02pm ET
Andrew McConnon and Wakita 54 (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer!
🤩 Andrew spent some time in England working for William Fox-Pitt. He’s also worked with Pippa Funnell and her husband, William, at The Billy Stud.
🏇 Andrew has also worked with CANTER, a program which provides OTTBs with opportunities for second careers.
📈 This pair were 6th in the 4*-L at Morven Park last fall and winners of the 4*-S at Rebecca Farm last season where they added just 1.2 XC time to their score. They finished on their dressage in the 4*-L at Mill Spring early last season to take 5th place. They were 26th here in the 4*-S last year.
📋 We’re looking at high 30s in the first phase for this mare but with just one XC jumping penalty from 11 runs on their FEI record and generally just a handful of time, this is a combination that should be climbing the leaderboard on Saturday if their 4* form’s anything to go by.

Andrew was awarded the Rebecca Broussard Foundation Developing International Rider Grant by the USEA Foundation last season after his win at Rebecca Farm with ‘Kiki’:

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Today’s Test:
Kiki gets her competition underway with a lovely square halt to start, but lifts her head up a little to check everyone’s watching her. We are Kiki!

This mare is quite long to navigate through the movements. She’s showing her greenness at the level a little – it shows up in the balance and collection. Kiki seems to want to have a look around, and her head comes up a smidge every now and then. She’s trying hard to listen to Andrew though.

The tension gets more obvious in the walk work. She looks up at the crowds and it definitely seems like Andrew’s having to hold her together. She’s reluctant in the reinback, hollowing and her head comes up.

The tension continues in the canter work – she’s coming above the bridle quite a bit. Andrew’s really riding her sympathetically though and keeping her on track.

The changes are tricky but the work between them is OK. Wow, the stretch canter is her highlight. She really drops her head, not quite taking the contact out, but she looks happier in her work at this point.

They finish up and Andrew’s looking a little rueful. Kiki gets a pat as she walks out on a long rein. She’ll have learned a lot in her first time in top-level atmosphere.

Andrew McConnon and Wakita 54 score 41.5.

1:54pm ET
Susannah Berry and Clever Trick (IRE)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer!
🤩 Susie’s trained with Piggy March and was part of the Wesko Equestrian Foundation program mentored by Pippa Funnell.
👀 Eyes on this one on Saturday! This mare sure is clever out on the cross country – in 18 international runs there’s just a single 20 on her record.
📈 This pair were 16th individually in the European Championships last season, where the Irish team were 4th.
📋 We’re looking at mid-30s dressage scores at 4*-L.

🦉 ‘Owl’ being a clever girl at the Europeans:

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Today’s Test:
The green coat of Ireland’s Susie Berry comes up the center line and Owl delivers a lovely halt to start for a score of 7. And those 7s continue across the board for all of the movements at the beginning of this test. This is really lovely work to watch – a horse and rider really in tune with one another.

Owl is very happy in the contact, clearly listening to Susie. He starts off his walk work nicely, but then there’s a little jog step as he travels across the diagonal. Susie gets him back though and he finishes his walk work and halts accurately, albeit losing a little bit of his relaxation.

Owl’s clearly feeling a little on his toes through the canter work. Susie’s doing a great job to keep Owl together. She’s saving every mark she can. The marks had dropped for the canter, but the extended is very good for a 7. The changes have dropped their score though unfortunately and are around the 3 mark.

Susie’ll be relieved to halt at the end of this test. She worked hard. The test started off really nicely, just a little excitement creeping in towards the end. Owl’s looking forward to cross country. Susie’s smiling as her team meet her outside the arena.

Susannah Berry and Clever Trick score 36.4.

1:46pm ET
Jennie Brannigan and Twilightslastgleam (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – He was 16th in his debut at the level at Maryland in 2022 and 17th here last year.
🧬 Comic was born and bred in the US by owner Nina Gardner who, with her husband Tim, has been breeding Thoroughbreds for more than 40 years. The gelding possesses blood lines that have been in their breeding program since the early 1980s.
🎓 Comic was YEH Reserve Champion as a four-year-old.
📋 At Maryland last year they put down a 34.7 in the first phase before having to withdraw due to Jennie having a nasty fall from her ride in the 3*-L. They scored 36.3 here last season and 35.2 at Maryland in 2022.

🏇 Born to run:

Photo by Abby Powell.

Today’s Test:
Comic looks a real picture this afternoon – stunning. He comes in looking to be trying really hard for Jennie.

The trot work isn’t as big in terms of movement as we’ll see in this competition, but Comic is relaxed in the contact and happy in her work. On the whole 6s and 6.5s coming in so far.

Comic looks to be relaxed enough in the walk, but there are moments when he seems to be anticipating the canter work coming up. He halts really nicely though for a 7. The reinback is accurate also.

Ah, there’s tension coming in on the changes. They score a 3.7 for the first one – it was kind of a bobble over the center line rather than a true change – and then he anticipates the next. He settles into the canter work though and is consistently scoring 6.5s.

They finish up and Jennie looks pleased with how Comic’s tried for her as they get their Kentucky underway.

Jennie Brannigan and Twilightslastgleam score 38.7

1:38pm ET
Hannah Sue Hollberg and Capitol H I M (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ form – ‘Chito’ stepped up to 5* here in 2022 but they unfortunately parted company out on the XC, however this pairing showed their top-level class with a 4th place in Maryland last year.
🥇🥈 Hannah Sue won team gold and individual silver at the 2011 Pan-Ams with Chito’s best buddy Harbour Pilot.
🗞️ She completed her first 5* here at Kentucky in 2007 with a hose she’d found in the classified ads when she was 13.
📈 This pair come here in hot form 🌶️ having won the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm last month.
📋 We’re likely looking at a very low 30s score here today; they scored 30.8 in the 4*-S here at Kentucky last season and a 32.4 on their way to 4th place at Maryland.

Everyone needs a buddy like Chito:

Photo by Sally Spickard.

Today’s Test:
Chito canters up the center line and gets off to a lovely start with a 7 for the halt and salute. He looks to mean business as he trots round the Main Arena. He’s really listening to Hannah and the lateral work gets 7s and 7.5s. Lots of impressive work happening for them – it looks effortless. Lots more 7s for the second half of the trot section.

Chito is really delivering a professional test. He’s soft and happy in the walk – lots of quality on show for 7s. Hannah has so much confidence in the extended walk – she asked for it and Chito delivered.

They strike off into canter and the accuracy in their work continues until the flying changes. The scores drop to 4s and a 5 for them. It’s a shame because everything else has been easy for them.

The extended canter is really pleasing for a 7 and then the final change is really good – a 7 for that.

They finish up their test with a pat and Chito looks like he’s really been concentrating and working hard for Hannah.

Hannah Sue Hollberg and Capitol H I M score 33.

1:30pm ET
Sara Kozumplik and Rock Phantom (USA)

Facts and Form:
5⭐ first-timer! This is Rock Phantom’s first time at the level, not for Sara though who’s contested the 5* here as well as Badminton and Burghley on her Pony Club horse.
🏇 Sara also competes at Grand Prix level in show jumping.
📈 Sara took an unlucky tumble out on XC in the 4*-S at Carolina last month after posting a 30.1 in the first phase. The end of last season saw them finish 15th in the 4*-L at TerraNova and they won the 4*-S at Chattahoochee Hills, where they added just 6 XC time faults to their dressage of 35.5. They were 15th in the 4* here at the Horse Park last year.
📋 At 4* they’re very much in the low to mid-30s bracket for their dressage scores.

Rocky loves the big pats:

Today’s Test:
Sara gets the 5* competition started with a 6.5 for their halt and salute.

Rock Phantom is super shiny in the Kentucky sunshine. He looks relaxed as he goes into his trot work, but there are a couple of losses of rhythm. The extended trot gets a 4, but then they carry on with 6s and a couple of 6s.

Rocky’s relaxed in the walk work and the scores improve in this part of their test – lots of 7s coming in. The halt and reinback are accurate enough, and then they have a clean transition into canter.

Rocky shakes his head a little when Sara asks for the first change. The scores for all the changes drop below a 6.

The extended canter is accurate enough for a 6 and the circle is better for 7.

The final halt is nice and square and Sara gives Rocky a massive neck rub – she’s got a big smile on her face. Overall this was a solid test for our 5* trailblazers.

Sara Kozumplik and Rock Phantom score 35.3.

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Tom McEwen and JL Dublin. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Tilly Berendt

Winner: I’m eenie-meenie-miney-mo-ing it between Tom McEwen and JL Dublin and Yas Ingham and Banzai du Loir – and I think it’s probably Tom’s year. That decisive third place finish at Pau last year, plus the second at Kentucky, suggests that the win is on its way, and I reckon it’ll be seriously close, but it’ll go his way this week. Yas will, I think, also have her redemption with a podium finish.

Top US Finisher: It’s got to be Liz Halliday and her formidable Cooley Nutcracker for me. I’ll be real, here: I actually wasn’t ever that wowed by this horse when he was younger and learning the ropes with Astier Nicolas. But since he’s grown into his legs and figured his job out, I’ve been so thrilled to be proven wrong – and in the two years that Liz has had him, boy has she proven me wrong. They’ve got 13 FEI runs under their belts so far and have been in the top ten in 11 of them, including taking the USEF CCI4*-L National Championship at the tail end of last year. This’ll be the gelding’s first five-star, but last year he came achingly close to winning the tough CCI4*-S, but for an 11 at a table that I still haven’t emotionally recovered from because from where I stood, he looked super over it. In any case, he won his next run — the CCI4*-L at Tryon — and so that bodes well for this week, because he had an 11 in his last prep run at Stable View. I like to turn a bit of rough luck into a good omen in whatever tenuous way I can, frankly.

Best Mare: Logic says Boyd’s Maryland victor, On Cue, or Oliver’s Blenheim Eight- and Nine-Year-Old champ, Cooley Rosalent, but actually, I’m going to throw my vote the way of the sole Irish combination here, Susie Berry and Clever Trick. Clever Trick, or Owl, is a real classic kind of cross-country horse – she’s game, and blood, and quick with her footwork and her thinking, and I really rate her as the kind of horse that the late, great Jimmy Wofford would have been vocal in his admiration of. She’s not done a five-star yet, but I think she’ll be serious on Saturday, and while her dressage isn’t her strongest phase, if Derek’s built us a blinder this year, she’ll climb and climb. There’s another reason to get behind Susie, too – she helped produce Morswood, and rode him around a Young Rider Europeans before he came over to be Allie Knowles’s best ginger boy.

Dark Horse: He shouldn’t be a dark horse, really, but I suspect that Stateside audiences may not yet be super familiar with Germany’s Christoph Wahler, who has been second at five-star and seriously consistent at Championships with his top horse, Carjatan S. His ride this week, the leggy D’Accord FRH, is a debutant at the level, but quite a cool one. He and Christoph came together in 2022, and after a few early runs where they ironed out the getting-to-know-you bits, they’ve been absolutely on fire: in their last eight FEI runs, they’ve never finished lower than twelfth place, and have been clear and inside the time in six of them, adding just 2.4 time penalties in the other two. They’re also excellent show jumpers, which will be another tick in the box to help them climb from their first-phase score, which will set them around the 30 mark. While five-star first-timers always have the inevitable question mark over their heads about whether they can make the difference, I would be the most unsurprised person in the Rolex stadium if these two popped up in the top ten, or even the top five on Sunday.

Heart Horse: I’m not sure who I love more, Phelps or Mia Farley — but I do know that I want them to have all the nice things, all the time, because they’re great. This is, in part, because I’m a sucker for an OTTB, but it’s also because every interaction I’ve ever had with Mia has come about because she’s been helping me and Sally bully her partner, Woods Baughman, which means that she’s totally and completely a woman after my own heart. They were so, so, so cool at Maryland, and I really hope their Kentucky debut fulfils all their dreams, too.

CCI4*-S Winner: Shout-out to Katie Malensek, who pilots STX Mex in this class – this is definitely a horse to watch this year, and I really enjoyed seeing him develop on this side of the pond with my pal Tom Crisp aboard.

Lillian Heard Wood and LCC Barnaby. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Cheg Darlington

Winner: I’m convinced it’ll be JL Dublin’s day on Sunday and we’ll see Tom McEwen grinning as he gallops ‘round the Main Arena for his lap of honor. He was pipped to the win by Tamie here twelve months ago due to cross country time penalties, but this pair have another year together in their saddlebag and have come out in winning form this season, taking the title in the 4*-S at Kronenberg last month. Dubs truly is a special horse: his dressage is genuinely a sight to behold, his bravery on the cross country is matched by his talent, and he’s super reliable on the final day. Still etched into the database of great eventing moments in my brain is the image of Nicola Wilson at the top of the podium at the European Championships in 2021. Dubs was a just a ten-year-old when he took that title after finishing on his dressage score of 20.9. He’s a true event horse, and Tom’s a true eventer – a winning combination – and, although it would be cool to have another US victory at Kentucky, I think Tom and Dubs would be popular champions.

Top US Finisher: I reckon we’ll see Hannah Sue Hollberg and Capitol H I M as the best of the US camp. ‘Chito’ really showed his mettle at Maryland last fall when he finished 4th – they were the highest placed US combination that day. He’s come out this season in hot form with a win in the 4*-S at Bouckaert Farm a few weeks ago and I really hope that momentum takes them forward and up the leaderboard at Kentucky. Chito’s brand number is 3, and he was drawn as third to go. They’ll actually be the second combination up the center line on Thursday after being bumped up the order by a withdrawal, but hey, I’m taking the numbers as a sign and predicting that this pair may well be on the podium come Sunday afternoon.

Best Mare: This is actually a really tough category because there are a number of very nice mares on the start list at Kentucky this year. I’m plumping for Oliver Townend’s Cooley Rosalent to top the herd. This mare is truly an exceptional talent and must be a very exciting prospect for Oliver, particularly given that she’s still only a ten-year-old. She’s proven that finishing on her dressage is entirely in her wheelhouse – in fact, she came racing out of the start blocks this season and did just that in the 4*-S at Burnham Market a couple of weeks ago – and when the dressage score is consistently in the low-20s, well, you’re surely onto a winner. Her third place at Maryland 5* last season really showed that she’s growing from each experience she has – putting the green 20 from Luhmuhlen firmly under her cinch and coming back out all the better for it. I hope she’ll do the same with the two poles that kept her from the top of the podium at Maryland and turn out a classy performance across the three phases this time around. I do want to add a shout-out to Kirsty Chabert’s Classic VI also – this mare’s day at the top of the top level is surely just around the corner. I was disappointed to see the chance of a 5* podium slip away from her in the show jumping at Pau, but I’ve no doubt that someday soon the three phases will come together for them like they did at Luhmuhlen in 2022 – where they finished on their dressage for second place – and Kirsty will take home the 5* win that this mare surely has in her. Just not this time around, purely because there are a few horses who’ll be higher up the board after the dressage, although to be honest, I hope I’m wrong about that and she starts her show jumping round on Sunday – after the speedy clear she can definitely deliver on Saturday – in with a real chance.

Dark Horse: I’m torn between two combinations for this – they’ve both got solid experience at the level and decent form in terms of podiums and placings. In no particular order, I’m hailing Ariel Grald’s Leamore Master Plan and Lauren Nicholson’s Vermiculus as dark horses to watch out for. They’re both exceptional geldings with plenty of experience at 5* as well as Championships appearances – I wouldn’t be at all surprised if the pair of them added another great result to their cards this week.

Heart Horse: Ah, this one is super easy – I’m a one guy kinda’ woman and that guy is Barnaby. There are three reasons why I love Lillian Heard Wood’s LCC Barnaby:

1. My first pony was called Barnaby.
2. My Barnaby looked just like a mini version of Lillian’s Barnaby.
3. LCC Barnaby is the epitome of an eventer who lays his heart out on the cross country course.

This guy literally grins as he gallops and jumps his way around 5* courses. He’s so up for the game and his enthusiasm for the sport never fails to remind me why I love eventing like I do.

CCI4*-S Winner: Wow, the line-up for the 4*-S at Kentucky is stacked this year! I’m going with Pan-Ams individual gold medalists Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake. If you write up their last seven FEI runs like a racecard, it reads 3352112. That’s one heck of an impressive streak. With a dressage score that’s likely to sit mid-20s, super careful show jumping and no cross country jumping penalties across 20 international competitions – with the turn of foot to match – I think this combination is going to be pretty hard to beat.

Monica Spencer (NZL) and Artist. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Diana Gilbertson

Winner: Well, well, well, here we are again – Team Picks – and my indecision grows ever worse. This time, the difficulty is deciding between Yas Ingham and Tom McEwan. I feel like both of them have a point to prove. Last year she and Banzai du Loir came across the Atlantic as one of the favourites, after a sparkling debut here in 2022 when she finished 2nd to a record setting Michael Jung. An out of character blip across country left them out of the running though, and instead it was fellow Brit Tom who took the runner up spot. But he and JL Dublin didn’t have a straightforward season after that, either, although they did end the season back on the podium in Pau. SO after all that, who do I think will take the win? Er…One of them. I just don’t know which. Like seriously cannot choose. Yas. But only because I flipped a coin and she was heads.

Top US Finisher: When I grow up, I want to be Liz Halliday. She has got an insane FEI competition record, and one of the most impressive string of horses out there. Cooley Nutcracker is no exception. This may be his 5* debut, but he practically eats the cross country at 4* level, so this should pose no problem to him. Plus, Liz is a seasoned 5* rider, and has been round Kentucky more times than most, so who better to show him the ropes at the level. Bali is ready to take centre stage as the latest in a longline of superstars from the Halliday stable, and this weekend will see him do just that.

Best Mare: Again, tough call, like asking to choose my favourite Spice Girl. For me, as with most of my colleagues here at Eventing Nation, it would seem, it is between Cooley Rosalent, Clever Trick and Classic IV. I love them all; they are all feisty, independent women – the Destiny’s Child of the equine world, if we are going to keep on with the girlband theme. But Oliver Townend and Rosie’s round at Maryland is still fresh in my mind, so I am going to plump for Cooley Rosalent to take the Best Mare moniker here. That and I am a sucker for a grey. I might even be so bold as to say she could take the third place on the podium behind Tom and Yas – testament to her talent, not her colour, I might add.

Dark Horse: I don’t know if Calvin Böckman and The Phantom of the Opera count as a dark horse – at the tender age of 23 (he celebrates his 24th birthday over Kentucky Weekend), this guy has already got more medals than most, and he and The Phantom of the Opera have a verrrry impressive FEI record thus far. But still, this will be their first 5* start, and so for me, that qualifies them as a contender for the Dark Horse category. That, and the fact that the name ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ is, for me at least, synonymous with mystery and intrigue (it also happens to be one of my favourite musicals). They have every chance of finishing well up the leader board having rarely been out of the 20 in recent years. I’m not one to make bold, predictory statements, but I would say that these two are The Next Big Thing.

Heart Horse: Mia Farley and Phelps, with a side of Monica Spencer and Artist. Actually, you know what, I’ve a big heart, so there’s equal room in there for both. Artist stole my heart after that Pratoni performance, when he and Monica appeared out of nowhere (or New Zealand, whatever), taking the International Eventing scene – ad the rest of us – by surprise, and they have continued to impress ever since. Similarly, Mia and her best pal Phelps exploded onto the 5* scene last Fall at Maryland, where they romped around their first 5* – the only pair to finish within the time – to finish fifth. The story behind both of these horses – bought for next to nothing ($1, in Phelps’ case) after a failed racing career, only to become world class eventers – never fails to bring me out in goose bumps, and my heart swells every time I watch them. I love a Thoroughbred at the best of times, and these two dudes are flying the flag loud and proud for OTTBs. Top 10 for both of them I reckon. I’ve made wilder predictions.

CCI4*-S Winner: Yikes. The entry list for the CCI4*-S is as exciting as that of the 5*, with a slew of top names, including Pan Am Gold medallists, Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake, winners of the Grand Prix Eventing showcase, Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS, as well as the afore mentioned Goddess Liz Halliday with three rides – Miks Master C and Cooley Quicksilver amongst them. Up until the beginning of this week of course, the wonderful Tamie Smith and Mai Baum, last year’s fairytale winners of the 5*, were also on the list. Obviously they would be my go to here if that were still the case, but since their unfortunate withdrawal I am going to have to revert to another one of the afore mentioned big shots. I can just about narrow it down to Miks Master C — third in last year’s 5* — and Chin Tonic HS. On account of the fact that I chose Liz as the best US finisher in the 5*, I am going to go with Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS. Got to keep things fair here, after all – and he does seem to have hit his prime this year – long may it last…there’s a pretty big event happening over in France later where that form might come in handy…. Still, with an entry list like that, it will be a fight to the finish, and I am looking forward to seeing it all unfold It really will be (one of) the Best Weekends all year! (I mean, we still have the Olympics to come, guys. Kentucky can’t have it all this time).

Tom McEwen and JL Dublin. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Abby Powell 

Winner: It’s incredibly hard not to pick last year’s runner up Tom McEwen and JL Dublin for the win this year (unless you pick Yasmin Ingram and Banzai du Loir, honestly flip a coin) so I’m not going to! Tom and Dub’s partnership is another year older and another year stronger. A 5* win for this pair is simply a matter of time and Dubs seemed to quite enjoy his time at the Horse Park last year. A my disclaimer though, seriously, I’m not betting against Yas and Banzai either!

Top US Finisher: She’s 18 years old this year, but age is just a number so don’t count On Cue out. She may have had a bit of time off post-Maryland, after she won the inaugural event in 2021, but her rider Boyd Martin clearly felt that the special mare had more to give. They came back to the 5* level at Burghley last year, finishing an extremely respectable 10th place. In fact, in all their previous three starts at this level, they’ve never finished lower than 10th. If On Cue can pull out a clean jumping round in the final phase like she did that year at Maryland, I believe the fairytale could happen again.

Best Mare: Other than On Cue (as above), I think that Ema Klugman and her syndicate-owned toe-flicking Bronte Beach have the potential to take this title, despite this being the mare first appearance at this level. I’ve had the pleasure of watching Bronte in-person a handful of times now and she sure shines in the sandbox and is a beast around the cross country! If she takes a liking to the Rolex arena and puts her best foot forward in the show jumping on Sunday, who knows how far up the leaderboard this pair could ultimately end up.

Dark Horse: Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way are my pick here. It feels like it wasn’t all that long ago that “Mason” was running his first 5* (it was 2021 when he made his debut at this level which I guess is a hot minute ago now, but time still feels like a blur post-2020. I digress) but this will be his sixth appearance at the level and he’s clocked completions and top-half of the pack finishes at minimum in each of them. We know Mason has the potential to go sub-30 in dressage — he did it at Burghley — and he’s a cross country machine. If Will can get this “little boy in a toy store on a sugar high” (his words in a previous interview!) then the sky is the limit for this pair!

Heart Horse: I think Mia Farley and Phelps stole a lot of hearts, including mine, after their 5* debut last year at Maryland. Mia was the epitome of realness and relatability throughout the whole event and how can you not have a soft spot for an OTTB who can rock around cross country like Phelps can? Just keep your jumping shoes on for Sunday Phelps, c’mon!

CCI4*-S Winner: I have to admit I haven’t been quite as involved with coverage this years as I have in past years, so I am just really looking at the 4* entry list right now and yikes, that’s one big stacked list! Out of a good handful of serious contenders, if I have to pick one, I’ll pick out Liz Halliday and Miks Master C to scoop up the win here. Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS might have the edge after dressage, but “Miki” and Liz have the edge in cross country time, which I think will ultimately give them the upper-hand.

Mia Farley and Phelps. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Sally Spickard

Winner: Tom McEwen and JL Dublin

It’s been a bit of an “always a bridesmaid” for Tom McEwen and JL Dublin, who’ve twice hit the podium at the 5* level, including a second place finish at Kentucky last year in the pair’s first 5* together. They followed that up with a third place finish at Pau that fall. While this partnership is still relatively young, it benefits from the experience of both horse and rider, and one could be fooled into thinking the two have been together for much longer than two years. “Dubs” has a 4*-S win under his belt this spring and seems to have come into Kentucky in fighting form. I think we could see Tom nab his second 5* title (he also won Pau in 2019 with Toledo de Kerser) this weekend.

Top US Finisher: Doug Payne and Quantum Leap

Quantum Leap still seems like he tends to fly a bit under the radar at these major events, but in truth he’s one of the best jumping horses in the field. Doug’s been working hard on some updated warm-up strategies for Quantum, encouraging him to flow more forward in his dressage work. That practice has paid off this year as the 13-year-old U.S. bred gelding has been delivering some quality tests. If he can squeak down toward his personal 5* best of 29.5 (Maryland – 2022), he’ll be in good standing to make a bid, but don’t count him out if he scores a little closer to his low-mid 30s average — this is a pair you can nearly count on to climb their way up the standings with clear and quick jumping rounds. Experience is also not to be counted out: Quantum has completed six 5* events to date. Could this be lucky number seven?

Best Mare: Cooley Rosalent

Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent are not a pair to count out for the win, but I’m slotting “Rosie” into the Best Mare spot for now. This exciting younger mare seriously impressed with a gusty performance in her 5* debut at Maryland last fall, where she finished third. Oliver has had great success on this side of the pond in past years, and he’s also making an astonishing 100th start at the 5* level this weekend — good luck beating that number.

Dark Horse: Mia Farley and Phelps

Mia Farley and Phelps are a great underdog story. Phelps, who was purchased off the track by Joanie Morris and then sold on to his current owner, David O’Connor as a sale project. No one stamped Phelps to be an upper level horse, full stop, in the beginning. But I’ve grown to really respect Mia’s ability to quietly and empathetically produce a horse, and mostly to her surprise she put in the work and secured a top five finish in her very first 5* last year at Maryland as the only rider to go clear inside the time on cross country. Mia is nervous for this first go at Kentucky, but she should believe in her preparation and the relationship she’s built with Phelps and who knows — maybe a podium finish is in the cards for this easy-to-root-for pair.

Heart Horse: Claus 63

This was a bit too easy of a choice, as I’ve worked for Sharon White for several years now and have had the privilege of watching Claus flourish under her expertise. Claus is the sixth horse Sharon will have brought to this level; many fans will know her well from the iconic photo of her and former 5* partner Cooley On Show over the ditch and brush fence on cross country. In Claus she has found a different type of ride, but one she believes very strongly in. She’s been qualified to bring Claus out at 5* for a couple years now, but as is her nature she meticulously ensures no stone is left unturned in her preparation. I’ve watched her continue her own education as a horsewoman while also helping Claus be his best self in all three phases. Their record has a few growing pains on it, but on their weekend this pair is absolutely capable of delivering a competitive finish. Education and setting the horse up for a long career will be her priority this weekend, but Sharon’s also as competitive as they come so you know she’ll be in it to perform her best.

CCI4*-S Winner: Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS

Is this a unanimous team vote? I’m not sure, but I feel it likely might be. While the Cosequin Lexington 4*-S is very competitive this weekend, and while I also know Will is setting his horses up for the Olympics rather than necessarily trying to go for gold this weekend, he’s also sitting on a potential world-beater that could earn 10s in his sleep. Time will be tricky to make on cross country as it usually is in a short format, but should Will find himself atop the board after phase two it’s hard to imagine anyone besting him.

Veronica Green-Gott

Winner: Phillip Dutton & Azure
We all know Phillip Dutton’s credentials, it would come with very little surprise to see him at the top of the podium. Azure is a slightly more controversial choice to win the 5* this weekend, as this will be the mare’s second attempt at the 5* level. However, if you look at Azure’s record, you’ll quickly see that this mare is a real athlete with a top-level pilot on board. This deadly combination has had no obstacle faults on their record, and the time penalties they do receive are typically at the 4*-S level. I think there’s enough galloping room on this track for the brave mare to really hit her stride and crack on to finish with few time penalties (I’ll refrain from saying zero to avoid jinxing them).

As for last year’s elimination at their first 5* attempt at the Maryland Five Star, that was a combination of a bit of bad luck and some miscommunication. As Phillip said, “I accept the blame, as I didn’t get the right line for her to the second corner.” We all have a few bad days sometimes, and I’m willing to bet Phillip has fewer than pretty much everyone. All that being said, he and “Sky” seem to be back at it and right as rain based on their 2024 performances. I wouldn’t hold their involuntary dismount against them heading into this weekend’s competition.

Top US Finisher: Barring Phillip & Azure, Liz Halliday & Cooley Nutcracker
Barring Phillip & Azure, Liz Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker would be my choice for Top US Finisher. Sure, it’s the gelding’s first crack at 5*, but I’d be willing to bet Liz will be riding competitively. “Bali” is just as much a competitor as his rider with a record filled with podium finishes. Together, I wouldn’t put it past this pair to make their first 5* a great one.

Best Mare: Ema Klugman & Bronte Beach
When I ran into Ema on the cross country course this morning, I greeted her by calling her Esquire Klugman, before remembering that she’s a lawyer, not a medieval knight-in-training. Either way, I’m a big fan of Ema Klugman Esq. and hope to see her at the top of the pack. I’m also a big mare person and Bronte Beach just seems like a lovely horse. Plus, with Bendigo on her shoulder, there’s no other mare I’d rather believe in. According to her record, “Bronte” is particularly brave, with only one run out/refusal. She does get some time penalties, but with fewer on the longs than the shorts, the galloping room at Kentucky may work in her favor there.

Dark Horse: Mia Farley & Phelps
If you were there when Mia Farley and Phelps crossed the finish line as the only pair to make the time at the Maryland Five Star last year, you would have them as your dark horse pair, too. The cheering, the tears, the hugs, the joy– the whole mix zone/rider tent celebrated with her. Mia always has a smile on her face and a great attitude to go with it. Plus, I’m a sucker for an amazing OTTB and Phelps is absolutely one.

Heart Horse: Chin Tonic
You know how some people are convinced that some celebrities are just lizards disguised as people? Well, I’m convinced that Chin Tonic is not actually a horse, but a Pegasus in disguise. This horse is so silky smooth and catlike in his movements; I could just watch him all day long. If I ever had the chance to ride Chin Tonic (hell I’d take a pony ride) my life would be complete.

CCI4*-S Winner: Danito & Tamie Smith
How can you not choose a horse with the nickname Danito the Flaming Cheeto as your 4* winner? After a brief hiatus, I’m thrilled Danito is back and ready to go. He’s finished on the podium at events like the Maryland Five Star and Rebecca Farm. While this will be his first return to competition at the Kentucky Horse Park since he was eliminated here in 2021, I have faith that this redhead can get the job done.

Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Gillian Warner

Winner: It’s hard to not pick Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir. While we see an incredibly talented field, these two consistently wow with a low 20s dressage score, typically pick up just a bit of time cross country, and jump well under pressure on the last day. They’ve certainly had their experience under pressure, and have delivered. It will be exciting to watch them in Kentucky again this year.

Top US Finisher: I’m keeping my eye on Liz Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker. Although this will be his 5* debut, with top ten finishes in seven of the nine 4* these two have run together, and with Liz’s extensive experience, I imagine they’ll impress.

Best Mare: I love a good mare, and there are plenty competing this weekend I’d love to take home with me. That said, a few in particular catch my eye, including On Cue, who has only ever finished in the top ten at the 5* level, and Karma, who may be making her 5* debut, but who has two 4* wins under her belt, as well as a top 15 finish at the Boekelo Nations Cup.

Dark Horse: 5* debutante Wakita 54 has my eye. As I said, I love a good mare, and “Kiki” and Andrew McConnon have years of experience together, including three top ten finishes at the 4* level in 2023, an impressively clean cross country record, and a trip around the Kentucky 4* last year.

Heart Horse: I have to pick Doug Payne’s sweet Quantum Leap. During my time working with Doug, Quantum’s kind personality, athletic ability, and adorable face made him so easy to fall in love with. Of course, he’s also finished in the top ten in five of the six 5* events he’s competed in.

CCI4*-S Winner: This is near impossible with so many strong pairs in the mix for the 4* this year. For me, it’s between William Coleman and Chin Tonic HS and Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake. Both are wildly impressive in the dressage, hold incredible cross country records (HSH Blake without a cross country jump penalty to date) and tend to show jump quite well. Chin Tonic HS has competed through the 5* level, and HSH Blake has the experience of a win at the Pan Ams last year. It’s hard to pick, and I could see it going either way, but I’ll go ahead and say Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake.

Liz Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker. PC – Sherry Stewart.

Token Horse Show Boyfriend of Team EN, Alex 

Winner: A rumour, that I am definitely not starting right now in this article, has it that Yasmin Ingham prepares for every cross-country round with 37 Cadbury’s creme eggs, bought at a post-Easter discount price. I think that’s probably the diet of a champion so she’s going to win this with Banzai du Loir.

Top US Finisher: Liz Halliday dropped 200 pounds of dead weight over the winter and I reckon that’s probably made her even more aerodynamic than usual. Cooley Nutcracker is ready to crack some nuts, and so is Liz, probably, and if I’m honest, I’m a bit scared of her, but also very impressed. Go show ’em, Liz.

Best Mare: I pick Kirsty Chabert and Classic VI, because Kirsty is a real magician. This is an inside joke that I’m including purely to make it very clear here that my primary role at these shows is to befriend everyone, but also I don’t annunciate very well, because Kirsty thought I was a magician when I told her I was a musician. You win some, you lose some. Anyway, Kirsty wears good sunglasses for cross-country and I do think this horse could move into my winners’ spot if she, too, wore sunglasses. Just something to think about.

Dark Horse: Susie Berry and Clever Trick seem really cool. I base this entirely off the fact that Tilly went to their yard recently to do a photoshoot and all the horses looked like nice horses. Also I hear the Irish have started winning five-stars now. Good for them!

Heart Horse: Last year at Boekelo’s Tuesday night party I confidently told Christoph Wahler that he and D’Accord FRH were going to win. They came twelfth, so this time, I’m just going to say that I like this horse.

CCI4*-S Winner: I was going to say Liz again, but then Tilly reminded that Will Coleman and Chin Tonic HS exist. He’s a pretty-coloured horse, isn’t he? Just an excellent shade of horse. I think that’s all you really need to win.