Equestrian Magazine

Equestrian Spring 2016

2016 Olympic & Paralympic Games On the Road to Rio

Spectator’s Guide

Explore the Tastes of Lexington

Mick Costello

RK3DE Cross-Country Course Builder usef.org

Spring 2016

Equestrian 1

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Conveniently located between Louisville and Lexington, off I-64. 10 minutes from new outlet mall.

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INTRODUCING A NEW CONCEPT TO THE TRADITIONAL COUNTRY CLUB • Premier private 9-hole Par 70 golf course in downtown Paris, Kentucky, featuring an established landscape with 75-year-old mature trees • $499.00 Household Membership

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Table of Contents 23

SPRING 2016

36

43

Cover photo: Kim Russell

23 Mick Costello

RK3DE Cross-Country Course Builder

36 2016 Olympic & Paralympic Games

On the Road to Rio

43 Spectator’s Guide

Explore the Tastes of Lexington

Departments

8 Sponsors

Take a Look at Our Partners

10 Juniors’ Ring

Interscholastic Equestrian Association

14 Seen and Heard

In and Around the Ring

Shannon Kinsley

The Land Rover Test Drive

Show Ring Style

18 Day in the Life

20 Inside Perspective 58 Trending

6 Equestrian Spring 2016

usef.org

Download the Layar app, and scan with your phone.

wi n n i ng doesn’t happen by

a c c i d e n t.

A rub. It’s all that separates a flawless round from “better luck next time.” But you’re not depending on luck.

You’re depending on countless hours in and out of the saddle. And you didn’t come here for just a ribbon.

You came for the championship ribbon. So ask yourself, does your horse have the stomach to win?

Time for a gut check. TheStomachToWin.com

When administered for 8 or 28 days, just one dose a day of ULCERGARD is proven to effectively prevent performance-robbing equine stomach ulcers in horses exposed to stressful conditions. ®ULCERGARD is a registered trademark of Merial. ©2014 Merial, Inc., Duluth, GA. All rights reserved.

EQUIUGD1425-D (08/14)

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: ULCERGARD can be used in horses that weigh at least 600 pounds. Safety in pregnant mares has not been determined.

Letter Equestrian Magazine Volume LXXX, No. 1

Springtime in Kentucky means it’s time for the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event (RK3DE) presented by Land Rover.

In this edition of Equestrian Magazine, the editorial team takes a closer look at the only four-star event in the United States and some attractions Lexington has to offer attendees.

Anyone who has attended the RK3DE knows that a beautiful cross-country course flows along the bluegrass of the Kentucky Horse Park every year. Equestrian Magazine spoke with Mick Costello, the course builder, to learn the process of producing the fantastic course.

The RK3DE is one of two remaining U.S. competitions serving as a designated selection event for the U.S. Olympic Eventing Team. Read about the selection processes for all four Olympic and Paralympic Games teams and check out what some equestrian athletes have been doing in preparation for the Games.

Lexington, Ky., has many restaurants and attractions for RK3DE attendees to enjoy while they’re not at the event. Check out a list of some favorite things to do around the city.

With a behind-the-scenes look at a groom’s schedule at a three-day-event and a look at the Land Rover Test Drive, Equestrian Magazine is your guide to the 2016 RK3DE.

Published by The United States Equestrian Federation, Inc. Chief Marketing Officer Colby Connell Advertising Director Kim Russell Account Executive Crissi White Contributing Writers Sarah E. Coleman Kathleen Landwehr Dana Rossmeier Contributing Editors Mark Coley Kathleen Landwehr Leah Oliveto Dana Rossmeier Eileen Schnettler Design & Layout Courtney Cotton Candice McCown

Equestrian magazine (ISSN 1548-873X) is published five times a year: Horse of the Year Special Edition, Spring/Spectator’s Guide, Summer, Fall, Winter, by the United States Equestrian Federation®, 4047 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511; Phone: (859) 258-2472; Fax: (859) 231-6662. (ISSN:1548873X). NOTE: Effective Issue 1 of 2015, Equestrian magazine will be published and provided electronically and only four editions will have a limited number of printed copies. Only the Horse of the Year Special Edition will provided in the U.S. Mail. USEF is not responsible for the opinions and statements expressed in signed articles and paid advertisements. These opinions are not necessarily the opinions of USEF and its staff.

While the Federation makes every effort to avoid errors, we assume no liability to anyone for mistakes or omissions. It is the policy of the Federation to report factually and accurately in Equestrian and to encourage and to publish corrections whenever warranted. Kindly direct any comments or inquiries regarding corrections to the Colby Connell cconnell@usef.org or by direct dial 859-225-2024. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Equestrian, 4047 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511. Canadian Publications Agreement No. 40845627.

For Canadian returns, mail to Canada Express, 7686 #21 Kimble Street Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, L5S1E9. (905) 6728100. Reproduction of any article, in whole or part, by written permission only of the Editor. Equestrian: Publisher, United States Equestrian Federation®, Interim Chief Executive Officer, William J. Moroney (859) 225-6912. Director of Advertising, Kim Russell (859) 225-6938. Copyright © 2016. Equestrian is the official publication of the United States Equestrian Federation, the National Governing Body for Equestrian Sport in the USA, and is an official publication of USEF.

Follow USEF Follow us on social media and stay up-to-date.

8 Equestrian Spring 2016

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More power.

More protection.

NOW WITH NEW BEST-IN-CLASS

6-YEAR

POWERTRAIN WARRANTY!* The John Deere 4 Family Tractors deliver with strength … and agility. That makes them perfect for work around the horse farm, arena, or anywhere duty calls on your property. Models with 44 – 66 horsepower, a variety of transmission options, cab or open station, two- and four-wheel drive, and the hydraulic power to lift and load all day long. Plus a NEW 6-year powertrain warranty. Best-in-class protection … so you’ll not only get more done, you’ll do it without worries.

As a member of USEF, you are eligible for significant savings on John Deere equipment. And a portion of your John Deere purchases provide direct support back to the equine industry. To get your discount, call us toll-free at 877-576-6872. *Beginning January 1, 2016, all compact utility tractors purchased new from an authorized John Deere dealer come standard with a six-year/2,000-hour (whichever comes first) powertrain warranty. See the LIMITED WARRANTY FOR NEW JOHN DEERE TURF AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT at dealer for details. John Deere’s green and yellow color scheme, the leaping deer symbol and JOHN DEERE are trademarks of Deere & Company.

JohnDeere.com/Ag

Partners Official Timepiece of the USEF www.rolex.com

Official Vehicle of the USEF & Title Sponsor of the U.S. Eventing Team www.landrover.com

Official Apparel Supplier of the USEF & Official Sponsor of the United States Show Jumping Team www.hermes.com

Title Sponsor of the USEF Show Jumping Talent Search Program www.platinumperformance.com

Official Boot and Jean Supplier of the USEF www.ariat.com

Official Pain Management Product, Official Deworming Product, & Official Equine Stomach Ulcer Products www.merial.com

Official Supplement Feeding System of the USEF Sponsor of the SmartPak Adult Amateur Hunter Ranking List www.SmartPakEquine.com

Official Joint Therapy of the USEF, Title Sponsor of the North American Junior and Young Riders Championships, & Title Sponsor of the Open Reining Championship www.adequan.com

Sponsors Official Riding Gloves of the USEF www.heritagegloves.com

Official Saddlepad of the USEF www.Toklat.com

Official Sponsor of the United States Dressage Team Official Shipper of the U.S. Dressage Eventing Teams www.timdutta.com

Official Blanket of the U.S. High Performance Teams www.Horseware.com

Official Sponsor of the USEF www.salleehorsevans.com

Official Performance Horse Boot and Leg Wear of the USEF www.equifit.net

Official Dressage Arena of the USEF and Official Footing Supplier of the USEF www.premierequestrian.com

Official Awards Blanket of the USEF www.buildyourownblanket.com

Title Sponsor of the USEF National Hunter Seat Equitation Medal Final www.englishridingsupply.com

Official Sponsor of the USEF www.deere.com

Official Ribbon Supplier (800) 556-2440 www.hodgesbadge.com

Official Credit Card Supplier www.usbank.com

Official Automobile Rental Agency of the USEF. Be sure to include the USEF discount code CDP# 15757 when you make your reservation to get special discounts! www.hertz.com

Title Sponsor of the USEF Junior Dressage National Championship & Title Sponsor of the USEF Young Rider Dressage National Championship www.agcocorp.com

Official Equine Feeder and Waterer of the USEF & Official Horse Stallplate of the USEF www.nelsonmfg.com

Title Sponsor of the USEF Young Horse Dressage Program, Young Horse National Championships, & Selection Trials www.horseinsurance.com

Official Pain Management Product of the USEF www.equioxx.com

Official Deworming Product of the USEF www.zimecterin.com

Official Nutritionist of the USEF www.ker.com

Official Sponsor of the USEF & Title Sponsor of the Junior Jumper National Championship nsbits.com

Official Therapy Plate of the USEF theraplate.com

Official Liniment of the USEF absorbine.com

Title Sponsor of the U.S. Pony Medal Championship www.marshallsterling.com

Official Saddle Supplier of the U.S. Dressage Team www.mysaddle.com

Title Sponsor of the U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage Team and the U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championships www.deliotte.com

Official Equine Pharmacy of the USEF Official Equine Veterinary Service Provider of the USEF www.hagyardpharmacy.com

Official Equine Stomach Ulcer Products of the USEF www.merial.com

Official Supplier of Laser Therapy to the USEF www.multiradiance.com

Official Supplier www.pulsevet.com

Official Feed of the U.S. Eventing, U.S. Show Jumping, and U.S. Dressage Teams www.triplecrownfeed.com

Official Graphics Partner www.ncgvisuals.com

Official Horsebox of the USEF www.stadiumhorsebox.com

Official Pre-Performance Kit of the USEF www.stablelab.com

The United States Equestrian Federation does not endorse or recommend any commercial product or service. Therefore, designations as official suppliers of the USEF of any commercial product or service cannot be construed as an endorsement or recommendation by the United States Equestrian Federation.

10 Equestrian Spring 2016

usef.org

HERMÈS CAVALE, JUMPING WITH FREEDOM Both technical and athletic, the new Hermès Cavale saddle was designed for top-level show jumping with the help of our partner rider, Simon Delestre. With its wide gullet, angled foam-injected panels, and its seamless medium-deep seat, Hermès Cavale combines balance, comfort for horse and rider, and close contact riding. It offers an innovative answer to the search for the perfect feel over fences.

Official USEF team supplier

I N T E R S C H O L A S T I C E Q U E S T R I A N A S S O C I AT I O N

Founded in 2002, the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA), with more than 12,500 middle and high school student-riders across the United States, has become the largest youth equestrian organization in the United States. The IEA was organized to promote and improve the quality of equestrian competition and instruction available to middle and secondary school students and is open to public and private schools and barn teams.

There is no need for a rider to own a horse because the IEA supplies a mount and tack to each equestrian for competitions. The nonprofit organization’s purpose is to set minimum standards for competition, provide information concerning the creation and development of school-associated equestrian sport programs, to generally promote the common interests of safe riding instruction and competition and education on matters related to equestrian competition at the middle and secondary school levels (grades 6-12/ages 11-19).

12 Equestrian Spring 2016

usef.org

PHOTOS: RON SCHWANE/RON SCHWANE PHOTOGRAPHER

Juniors’ Ring

The IEA currently offers Hunt Seat and Western competition. Next season (2016-2017), the 15th Anniversary of the IEA, a pilot Dressage program will be added during the competition year, in addition to these two existing disciplines.

While excitement builds for the 15th IEA season, the recently concluded competition year was special. After 753 regular-season horse shows, the IEA held combined National Finals at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky., April 20-24. Nearly 600 youth-riders competed over five days in the Alltech Arena. In addition to the competition, the IEA offered a free Education Symposium to expand the attendees’ equestrian knowledge. Highly experienced speakers discussed a number of topics geared toward IEA riders, parents, coaches, and equine professionals. The speaker line-up included Wendy Wills, Lisa Eklund, Candice King, Christy Landwehr, Sarah Coleman, Bernie Traurig, Diane Lesher, Robert Cacchione, Terra Schroeder, and Patti Colbert, among others.

During the year, the IEA also established a Youth Board. The IEA Youth Board includes rider members

from each of the eight zones and alumni representation.

Sue Wentzel, IEA Education Committee Chair stated, “This gives adult IEA members and leadership an avenue to hear the youth voice and to offer an opportunity for leadership to IEA youth members.”

All of the regular-season, regional, and zone finals shows are guided by an IEA staff Zone Administrators and volunteer Regional Presidents. The Zone Administrators also coordinate “best practices” across the zones with monthly meetings and a bi-annual strategy retreat.

Of course, moms, dads, grandparents, and friends all contribute to the wonderful “community” within the IEA, as well.

In addition to the USEF, the IEA is affiliated, and collaborates with, the following organizations: • Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) • National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) • American Quarter Horse Youth Association (AQHYA) • United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) • Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA)

For additional information, visit rideiea.org. usef.org

Spring 2016

Equestrian 13

Every horse has never colicked.

Until he does.

Colic affects horses of every breed, age, and discipline. At SmartPak, we’re on a mission to support healthy horses and happy riders, and that’s why we created ColiCare.

ColiCare is a FREE program that combines a veterinary wellness plan with our best digestive supplement, and backs it all with up to $7,500 of colic surgery reimbursement, should your horse ever need it.

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A DIFFERENT KIND OF STEAKHOUSE center registration

reverse application

Tony’s Logo Refresh - Finished Art - 4.2.14

WES BATTOCLETTE PHOTOGRAPHY

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BUZZ AROUND THE RING

PHOTOS: CLAES JAKOBSSON, WWW.HASTBILDER.SE & SUSANJSTICKLE.COM

Seen & Heard

“Leslie [Law] is an amazing coach and mentor and an excellent person to have in your corner.

It was great to get to know the Eventing 25 Program participants and learn from them, as well. The lunch lectures gave us an opportunity to branch out and gave us an overall picture on how to become a better horse person. I’m grateful to be a part of this program; great things happen through it. I look forward to the next one.”

- Caroline Martin on the Eventing 25 Program training sessions with USEF Eventing Developing Rider Coach Leslie Law

“Having this event is a great experience to get your first Nations Cup under your belt at a young age and learn how to ride on a team and deal with that pressure.”

-Emma Heise, member of the winning U.S. Junior Team in the FEI Junior Nations Cup presented by Hollow Creek Farm, on being able to participate in a Nations Cup competition at CSIO Wellington

16 Equestrian Spring 2016

Top: Callan Solem and VDL Wizard clear an oxer at the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final in Gothenburg, Sweden on their way to a seventh-place finish.

Bottom: The Dutta Corp. U.S. Dressage Team smiles after claiming the Team Gold medal in the Stillpoint Farm FEI Nations Cup (left to right: Arlene “Tuny” Page, Kasey PerryGlass, Laura Graves, Shelly Francis, and Chef d’Equipe Robert Dover).

usef.org

PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE): WWW.SPORTFOTOS-LAFRENTZ.DE, FEI/STOCKIMAGESERVICES.COM, & PICSOFYOU.COM

“It was so fun. I was very happy with that [test] being my first time in an arena like that. He is such a great horse and I am so happy with him.”

- Charlotte Jorst following her Grand Prix Freestyle with Kastel’s Nintendo at the Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage Final

Top Left: Sisters Cassidy and Kimberly Palmer, Pas-de-Deux Bronze medalists at the FEI World Cup™ Vaulting Final Top Right: The Hermès U.S. Show Jumping Team stands atop the podium after winning the Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup presented by Edge Brewing Barcelona at CSIO4* Ocala (left to right: McLain Ward, Beezie Madden, Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland, Lauren Hough, and Todd Minikus).

Bottom: Chester Weber drives through an obstacle on marathon day at Live Oak International, in route to claiming his 13th USEF Four-in-Hand Driving National Championship title. usef.org

“The abilities and determination shown by the riders this weekend was exceptional. We heard from excellent speakers who shared their expertise to further develop the team. The practice was a success and we are looking forward to competing in South Africa this summer.”

- Coach Barbe Smith on the first training session of the U.S. Saddle Seat World Cup Team Spring 2016

Equestrian 17

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JP Stilz 859.221.6811 stilzsells@gmail.com

Bluegrass Sotheby’s International Realty 800 East High St., Ste.200 Lexington, KY 40502 859.268.0099 ©MMIX Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty ® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company.

Marcus Hammond 859.321.9955 mhammond@bgsir.com

PLEASE JOIN US FOR A POLO MATCH

SUNDAY, MAY 1ST • 1851 SAHALEE DRIVE • LEXINGTON, KY following the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Parking $5/car • All proceeds go to Old Friends Equine Retirement Farm.

The property will be open to the public at 3:30pm and the polo match begins at 4:30pm Catering by Shakespeare & Co. • Tailgating & Picnicking are Welcome

SHANNON KINSLEY

PHOTO: USEF ARCHIVES

Day in the Life

Shannon Kinsley leads Meadowbrook’s Scarlett off the van at the 2015 Pan American Games venue.

S

hannon Kinsley is a longtime freelance groom and has been working for Lauren Kieffer Eventing, based in Middleburg, Va. and Ocala, Fla., for two years. During a professional career that has spanned 15 years, Kinsley has groomed at numerous major competitions and championships. In 2015, she groomed at three-day events including the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Land Rover CCI4*, Pan American Games, and Aachen CCIO3*. Kinsley took Equestrian Magazine through her typical daily schedule during a three-day event.

[5:30-6:00 a.m.]

During a horse show, my day typically starts around 5:30 or 6 a.m., but sometimes 7 a.m. depending on if we have later ride times. I’m big on coffee in the morning; I’m hangry without it. I usually like to get there early because you never know when other people are getting there. Also, time management is very important. Every morning I look at the schedule and, in my head, go over what time I need to do various tasks. I’m big on checklists.

[6:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.]

I try and get to the barns by 6 or 6:30 a.m. to feed and stuff. Any day, no matter if it is jogs, dressage, cross-country, or show jumping, I always try and get there early enough that I can have the barn completely done and all of the horses hand-walked before I have to start doing things.

The amount of time we hand-walk depends on our ride times, but even if we get them out for five or 10 minutes that’s good, but ideally I like them out for 20 or 30 minutes if I can manage it.

When it comes time to get horses ready for ride times, it takes me 20-25 minutes to braid. If it is an early ride time or if I have six horses, I will braid them the night before, but if they go after 10 a.m. or for a Sunday jog, I will braid them that morning. If I have a white

“I always try and schedule, if I can, giving the horses an hour alone, just to lie down or have a nap.”

20 Equestrian Spring 2016

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horse or a horse that gets dirty in its stall, they will need a bath. For tacking up, I always give myself 30 minutes, but it usually only takes me 15 or 20 minutes. Cross-country takes a bit longer with boots and studs, but it still only takes me about 25 minutes.

For post-cross country care in the vet box at a threeday event, I typically sponge water on the horses once and scrape it off initially and then start taking studs out and boots off. Having a couple good people to help you is really nice. Lauren Kieffer’s parents are amazing! They are my go-to people; I call them my “working students.” Back in the barns, as soon as I get back, I put the horses in ice one time first before washing off the grease and giving them a full bath. I think it is really important after the horses run cross-country that they get to move around, so I will handwalk and hand-graze them for 20 minutes. Then, I will put them back in ice one or two more times, wrap their legs (I don’t poultice, I’m a Sore No-More girl), and jog them and re-evaluate. If they don’t have pads on their feet, I will pack them for the night. At an event like Kentucky they will get fluids, but they don’t always need them.

good care of them, we massage them, get them chiropractic adjustments, put a magnetic blanket on them, and ice them, but sometimes they just need to be left alone, too.

For my meals, I often eat snacks throughout the day. If Lauren’s mom is there, she will make sure we get fed at some point. Ms. [Jacqueline] Mars is really good about bringing food to us, so we have a good snack table. I also know where the good snack tables are; Boyd [Martin] always has a pretty good snack table so I can run by there and grab a pack of crackers or something.

[12:00-1:00 p.m.]

I always try and schedule, if I can, giving the horses an hour alone, just to lie down or have a nap and not have us fussing with them. I think that is super important. If you have a horse that you think is a little sore, it is what it is; we take

[9:00-10:00 p.m.]

I like to sleep as much as possible. I could sleep 12 hours, but I normally sleep six to seven hours. Anybody that knows me knows that I am not a morning person, which is not great for this occupation, so I like to be in bed by 9 or 10 p.m. every night.

[1:00-6:00 p.m.]

After giving them sometime alone, we come back, handwalk and hand-graze them again, and feed about 3:30 or 4 p.m., then put them up for the night.

[6:00-9:00 p.m.]

It is pretty normal that we get done at a horse show by 6 p.m. Depending on where I am staying or how far away it is, I will usually hang around before heading to dinner and then going back to where I am staying.

Left: Kinsley grooms Meadowbrook’s Scarlett at the 2015 Pan American Games.

PHOTOS: USEF ARCHIVES & COURTESY OF SHANNON KINSLEY

Right: Kinsley with Lauren Kieffer and Veronica

usef.org

Spring 2016

Equestrian 21

Thrill seekers and cautious creatures alike have navigated unchartered territory during Land Rover Test Drives for 68 years. It has been a staple at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event (RK3DE) since Land Rover became a sponsor six years ago. The Land Rover Test Drive gives people the opportunity to take the wheel and experience the rugged off-road terrain capabilities offered by these innovative vehicles.

“Land Rover test drives began in 1948 after completion of the first car. Our goal from the get-go was to get people in the car. It’s a neat surprise to people that they actually get to drive and experience the vehicle without feeling pressure to buy because we don’t sell cars on site,” said Bob Burns, Land Rover events manager.

Located off Nina Bonnie Blvd., and a short distance from Rolex Stadium, sits the Land Rover test course. Curious RK3DE spectators filled with excitement and uncertainty of what lays ahead take their positions at the start line. The course, consisting of a rocky, bumpy path, a big hill, water, tight turns, and a bridge, is designed to reflect the common country atmosphere or that which many participants could find on their farms.

“We really want to make the course look like a piece of the farm so it is a natural setting for the people coming through.

We try to make the course as real-world as possible so when people drive, they don’t think it’s a carnival ride. We’re trying to expose the vehicle to say, it’s not only a cool car, but it can be used in a real-life setting. The property does very well at lending itself to that,” said Burns.

Accompanying the driver is a certified Land Rover Experience Driving Instructor. Coming from all walks of life and drawn to the off-road elements, Driving Instructors serve 22 Equestrian Spring 2016

THE LAND ROVER TEST DRIVE

as hosts and coaches to the drivers. They are very calm, inspirational, and capable of translating their off-road skills to the driver. They instill confidence in the drivers so they can accomplish the course masked by unfamiliar conditions.

Nerves may get to some first-time test drivers; however knowing what to expect will make it easier. Do not be fooled by the pond; the only way to get past it is driving right through it. The car will side tilt during the course. But stay calm; no one has ever tipped over. Climbing the hill may be the easiest part, but the drop may prove rather daunting heading into the remaining obstacles. However, Driving Instructors make sure drivers finish the course successfully.

“Test Drives show the capability of these vehicles, and drivers realize that it’s not a stunt show. It’s very controlled, and if they buy one, they can do this type of stuff. It isn’t dangerous; it’s what they are meant to do,” said Burns.

Finishing the course provides a sense of accomplishment.

Many test drivers are amazed at how effortless the course is and that anyone can do it. Some choose to do it repeatedly.

“Equestrians are familiar with our car, but they don’t think of it as an everyday car, so we want to get the car in front of them. The great thing is its towing capacity. They can drive a Land Rover and get the same capability as their trucks. The test drive makes people aware that they can actually use the car. Equestrians are a great audience for this,” said Burns.

Land Rover will offer test drives for those 16-years-old and over, Thursday, April 28 through Sunday, May 1, during the Rolex Kentucky-Three Day Event. Each driver will receive a complimentary Land Rover hat for participating.

Dana Rossmeier usef.org

PHOTOS: MICHELLE DUNN

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STUDENTS IN GRADES 6-12: TAKE THE REINS AND JOIN THE IEA No Need To Own A Horse!

“As a coach I feel incredibly lucky to work with an organization that offers young equestrians so many opportunities! Our riders have developed such a strong sense of sportsmanship and horsemanship because of the ideologies and practices of the IEA.” – Coach, Chatham, VA

Riders in grades 6-12 can compete with teams in the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA). School-age children, with various levels of experience, compete in Hunt Seat and Western disciplines throughout the school year. Riders not only compete for individual points, but for their team as well.

www.rideiea.org

“Team spirit and confidence! This has been a wonderful experience for all of us. Highly recommended!”

– Parent, Westborough, MA

Founded in 2002, the IEA has more than 12,500 riders on over 1,300 teams competing in hundreds of shows across the United States each year.

For more information, please contact Jennifer Eaton, IEA Membership Coordinator, at 877-RIDE-IEA (877-743-3432) or Jenn@rideiea.org.

It’s fun and challenging – and there is no need to own a horse! The IEA is available to public or private schools and barn teams.

Horses are provided to each rider at every event. All mounts are selected by a draw. Parents like that the IEA provides an affordable format for their child as he/she builds riding skills.

Many of our riders receive scholarships based on their performance throughout their IEA years.

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©2016

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MICK

COSTELLO RK3DE CROSS-COUNTRY COURSE BUILDER

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Anyone who has attended the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event (RK3DE) knows that a beautiful cross-country course flows along the bluegrass of the Kentucky Horse Park every year. However, few know how it comes to be. Mick Costello, the RK3DE crosscountry course builder, puts in countless hours constructing the cross-country fences that make up the renowned course of the only four-star event in the Western Hemisphere.

Equestrian Magazine spoke with Costello to learn how he became a cross-country course builder and the process of producing the fantastic course.

GETTING HIS START AS A CROSS-COUNTRY COURSE BUILDER

C

ostello grew up in a family that had a passion for horses in Monterey, Calif. At the age of nine, he joined the United States Pony Club at Pebble Beach and began competing in eventing, attending his first D rally at Hollywood Park in 1961. Costello worked in exchange for his lessons, which led him to build crosscountry courses at Pebble Beach, the host of horse trials over the Memorial Day weekend and a three-day event around Labor Day. After graduating high school in 1969, Costello was in charge of the cross-country course building at Pebble Beach and continued in this role for a few more years.

“I supervised the building of and built a lot of the ‘69 three-day [cross-country course] which was really the last big one there. It was what’s now called a one-, two-, and four-star. We didn’t have stars then, but that was based on the distance. Back then, we didn’t have phase E [a cool down phase] but we did have the four phases [phases A, B, C, and D] we had at Rolex until 2004.”

Costello was working while many recognizable names competed at Pebble Beach: Eric Horgan, Kevin Freeman, Mason Phelps, Charles and Michael Plumb, Richard Sands, and Jimmy Wofford. The threeday event continued for a few more years before the majority of upper-level competition moved East in the early ‘70s.

Costello headed East in 1985 and began

26 Equestrian Spring 2016

helping his brother Pete build cross-country courses across the country full-time, including the Radnor Hunt International ThreeDay Event in 1986 and 1987. He added the Fair Hill International Three-Day Event to his resume as a course builder from 1989 to 1993 and took over the duties at Radnor Hunt from 1991 to 2001. When Pete began building the RK3DE cross-country course in 1995, Costello stepped in to help finish the course the last two weeks prior to the event.

Following RK3DE’s first CCI4* in 1998, Pete tragically passed away and Costello inherited his brother’s duties. Costello has become a mainstay for the RK3DE as the 2016 event marks his 18th year building the course. He also built the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games cross-country (and marathon) course.

As one can imagine, Costello has a multitude of great stories from his experiences.

“In 1998, I remember about 6:30 in the morning, Billy Wofford and I were putting spare rails around the jump ring (which was grass right across from the lake), these were 16-foot, huge rails, so it wasn’t like anything was going to break. We were putting them out right inside the ring and we were driving a pick-up truck; we got out of the pick-up

...THE MAJORITY OF UPPER-LEVEL COMPETITION MOVED EAST IN THE EARLY ‘70s.

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PHOTO:

PHOTOS BY KIM RUSSELL

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1

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OVER THE YEARS, COSTELLO HAS DEVELOPED THE PERFECT ASSORTMENT OF SUPPLIES FOR THE JOB. 3

1. COSTELLO OPERATES THE BANDSAW MILL TO SLICE DURABLE, 2.5” THICK SECTIONS OF A LOG FOR FENCE 19A, THE BOATHOUSE INTO THE LAND ROVER LANDING. 2. IN EARLY APRIL, SOD ARRIVED TO BE LAID OUT AROUND THE NEW WATER JUMP, THE LAND ROVER LANDING. 3. DEREK DI GRAZIA, THE RK3DE CROSS-COUNTRY COURSE DESIGNER, AND COSTELLO SET THE HEIGHT (3’11”HIGH) FOR FENCE 10, THE ROLLED TABLE BEFORE THE ROLEX HEAD OF THE LAKE WATER COMPLEX.

28 Equestrian Spring 2016

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CREATING THE RK3DE CROSS-COUNTRY COURSE truck and everybody cheered, the whole stands. I guess it was first come, first served.

Naturally we waved, then we went to the back of the truck and there is Prince Phillip right behind us,” Costello says with a laugh.

• The finished product of the RK3DE cross-country course takes about nine months to piece together. In July, just three months after the event ends, Derek di Grazia, the RK3DE cross-country course designer, spends time walking around the terrain of the Kentucky Horse Park and develops a course for the following year’s event.

“The planning process is Derek’s. He walks around and comes up with a track first. After about a day or so of doing that, he comes up with a plan and tries to figure out where he wants to put the jumps. He usually has an idea of where he wants things pretty fast.

And he will say, ‘Can we put this here and that there?’ I have really been pushing for this new water because the Park needs it for all the events, but he finally wants to use it this year. We are having five water jumps this year,” Costello said enthusiastically.

“Without going too far off the track we had last year, the course is quite different.”

Once Costello is given the plan for the course, he begins the gradual process of constructing the course, whether that is building new elements or refurbishing fences from previous years. While the plan can change slightly, by December the course is firm in di Grazia’s mind. In early March, the cross-country course designer and builder spend two days setting fences, determining

WHILE THE PLAN CAN CHANGE SLIGHTLY,

BY DECEMBER THE COURSE IS FIRM IN DI GRAZIA’S MIND.

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the exact locations of the majority of the fences and establishing the correct heights.

A month later, the technical delegate, Tom Ryckewaert (BEL), reviews the course with di Grazia and approves all the heights. Two weeks out from the event, the fences are stained and finished with brush, and mulch is put down for the floral decorations, which are placed the Saturday prior to the event.

Costello uses a wide variety of tools and machinery while on the job. He uses chainsaws, hand tools, power tools, a bandsaw mill, a backhoe with eight-foot forks, and a multi-terrain loader (or skidsteer) with rubber tracks, just to name a few. Over the years, Costello has developed the perfect assortment of supplies for the job.

“The rubber tracks [of the multi-terrain loader] help a lot with building new terrain because it binds the dirt and shapes it. When I got the backhoe, I got eight-foot forks because four-star jumps are a little huge to carry around. A few years ago, I got a bandsaw mill. That has helped because I like to make the lumber for the jumps very thick.” A bandsaw mill holds and cuts large pieces of timber, allowing Costello to easily cut thick sections to be used to build sturdy cross-country fences.

He works with several types of wood to build the jumps, even some that has been sourced from within the Kentucky Horse Park. A big red oak tree that used to be in front of the Big Barn provided the front and back pieces of fence 17, the double brushes, while the sides are elm and the top is bur oak. Costello also gets wood from other sources. This year, TreePro Inc. supplied Costello with elm, which is long-lasting. His friend and Kentucky Master Logger, Jerry Wright, owns land in central Kentucky and frequently provides Costello with cedar. In recent years, Kentucky Master Logger Arlie Birchfield has provided Costello with several

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batches of pine. “I use loblolly pine for the rails because it is lighter. All our rail jumps are now frangible; you don’t like to pre-load them or have them too heavy, so they are actually doing their job.”

The last three years, Costello has been mostly a one-man show building the RK3DE cross-country course, but he does have help.

Occasionally, Wright and Dave Leonard help Costello, while closer to the event Levi Ryckewaert and Tyson Rementer assist. On cross-country day, several people are spread out around the Kentucky Horse Park.

“Tom Ryckewaert’s son, Levi, and Tyson come in and help me finish all the brush and stain. They are terrific. They are building the Rio Olympics course with the Willis brothers [renowned cross-country course builders for events such as Badminton],” Costello said. “We have a slew of people here on Saturday because we have five or six regional crews out on course, and then Dave and I cruise the whole course, Dave with footing and me with everything so if something happens I’m there. There are so many spectators so it is hard to get around, so we have people at different sectors.”

Costello loves his job and gets much joy out of being a cross-country course builder.

He does not have a favorite RK3DE jump or course, though a carved fox jump that he made in 2000 stands out in his mind.

Costello does not feel carving jumps is one of his strengths (Rementer does most of the carving), but the challenge and the finished product of the fox jump were gratifying.

Mike Etherington-Smith, former RK3DE cross-country course designer, encouraged carving fences in order to give the spectators something to look at between horses.

In addition to building the cross-country course, taking care of the footing is an important part of Costello’s job. The ground of the cross-country track needs to be maintained throughout the year, using a combination of seeding and aerating. “I seeded the course last fall and AGRI-Vated it. The

30 Equestrian Spring 2016

AGRI-Vator goes in six inches and actually shatters the ground. I tried to do a little vertidraining, which is a deep tine aeration that basically does the same thing as the AGRIVator but goes deeper so it gives more room for the roots to allow better root structure and drainage. The machine will go 16 inches but I only go 10 or 11 before I hit rocks.” The ground also receives fertilizer and weed control treatments. “We fertilize, we kill dandelions. I try and keep the dandelion killer off until the last week because it won’t let anything germinate, so it drives me nuts.”

Since the long format three-day event is a thing of the past, horse-and-rider combinations compete more often, and the quality of the footing is as important as ever. “Since we lost the steeplechase and roads & tracks, people compete in a lot more events than they used to. It’s very, very, very important that the footing is perfect, not too soft, not too hard. The AGRI-Vator is great if it is hard because you can fluff up the ground right before the event.” In the case of excessive rain before the event, an ample amount of turf provides protection, for the most part, from muddy conditions along the track.

Costello is at the mercy of the weather as he works on the cross-country course throughout the year. He works most days regardless of the weather as it is part of the job and adjusts accordingly. “I try to stay off the grass when it is wet. It helps a lot, but we will have to place the jumps in the rain if we have to.”

Though the majority of the work for the RK3DE cross-country course takes place over several months, Costello remains busy the week of the event. The cross-country fences need to be flagged by Tuesday for the

COSTELLO LOVES HIS JOB AND GETS MUCH JOY OUT OF BEING A CROSS-COUNTRY COURSE BUILDER.

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4. COSTELLO CUTS INTO A SECTION OF A RED OAK TREE THAT USED TO BE IN FRONT OF THE KENTUCKY HORSE PARK’S BIG BARN. THE TREE PROVIDED THE FRONTS AND BACKS OF FENCE 17, THE DOUBLE BRUSHES. 5. A COMPLETED DOUBLE BRUSH TABLE (3’11” HIGH, 5’11” TOP SPREAD) 6. COSTELLO PLACES THE RAIL FOR THE FIRST ELEMENT OF THE PARK QUESTION. 7. TYSON REMENTER HELPS COSTELLO WITH THE MAJORITY CARVING AND INTRICATE DETAILS, SUCH AS THIS CABIN’S WINDOWS.

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8. DI GRAZIA, COSTELLO, AND TOM RYCKEWAERT DISCUSS THE CROSS-COUNTRY COURSE. 9. COSTELLO SECURES THE RAIL FOR THE FIRST ELEMENT OF THE PARK QUESTION. 10. DI GRAZIA AND COSTELLO DETERMINE THE LOCATION OF THE FINAL ELEMENT OF THE PARK QUESTION. 11. COSTELLO CARRIES A GROUND LINE FOR A CROSS-COUNTRY FENCE.

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CHANGES IN CROSS-COUNTRY COURSE BUILDING & SAFETY TECHNOLOGY Ground Jury’s course walk. On Friday, the sand for the road crossings (six for this year’s event) is put down so foot and vehicle traffic are not going across it all week. By the time Saturday comes around, Costello and his crew “do what they are told.”

Once the cross-country phase is over, the course is quickly disassembled. The flowers are removed Saturday evening, with the mulch around the jumps, flags, galloping lanes, and portable fences being removed within a week. “We AGRI-Vate and seed, if necessary. The park got a harley rake which is a cool machine for my skidsteer that I can smooth any ruts with; then we get ready for the [Kentucky Horse Park Foundation’s] schooling days over the [Kentucky] Derby weekend.”

• Throughout his career as a crosscountry course builder, Costello has witnessed developments in building techniques as new technology evolved.

“In the ‘60s, we used little tiny rails and our biggest concern was them breaking. We used to peel Monterey pine rails to three inches wide and wire them to a post and that was a jump, so [course building] has come a long way. My brother started taking trips with organizers and whomever to England and arrange course walks with a lot of different course designers and organizers in the late ‘80s/early ‘90s. He had four different Willis boys come over and help him for a while, and actually, that was when I learned the new knot for tying rails to a post in 1999 or 2000. Before that, we were stapling rope, and we would put 14 staples in a post so it

IT WOULD TAKE AN ARMY TO TAKE DOWN A JUMP.

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would take an army to take down a jump.

Now we can take a knife and a forklift and we’re done.”

Shortly before frangible pin technology was developed in England in the early 2000s, Costello created a makeshift frangible fence as part of a bounce. “We had a bounce on the Preliminary course at Radnor that David O’Connor was designing, and we actually made it frangible. We cut the post off so the rail could roll over and we drilled a broomstick-type dowel. That was all that was holding it so if a horse got in trouble, the rail could go off.”

Once the frangible technology became available, it was integrated into the RK3DE cross-country course by Mike EtheringtonSmith. “[A traditionally pinned jump] is with the post behind the log and a pin underneath it. It is roped so the log can fall 40 centimeters (which is about 16 inches).

They determined that will interrupt a somersault. If the log falls 40 centimeters when the horse is up in the air going over a jump, it will fall in a heap and go home instead of something worse. We put a nail on the underside of the rail that helps activate the pin a bit easier being on that pressure point along the pin.”

Over time, more technology became available, such as the reverse pin and the MIM clip. “In 2010, they came up with a reverse pin. The rail is on the back side of the post and it’s held on with a cable that’s tensioned, so a little bit of forward motion will start the breaking of the pin, instead of more vertical [motion] like the original pin. Mats Björnetun, who built auto parts for a lot of European cars, came up with a hinge system with a clip holding the rail that has the same breaking point as a pin, and it’s much easier to put back up. You don’t have to jack up the

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rail, put a pin back in, and re-tension the cable, so in certain circumstances, I like that better, but not all.” Costello has also used the polystyrene log called Prolog in the past, but does not prefer them since it can no longer be used once broken. Additionally, installing a new one is somewhat time consuming, and he wants to have any holds on course be as brief as possible. Reverse pins take the longest to reset, but Costello and his crew have done them as quickly as 40 seconds.

This year’s RK3DE cross-country course has four oxers with MIM clips, two corners with frangible pins on the front and reverse pins on the back, and the coffin has long frangible pins due to the relatively large rails being used.

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Costello brings immense knowledge and experience to his role as the RK3DE crosscountry course builder. He takes great pride in his work and gets significant joy out of it.

Speaking with Costello brings a newfound respect for the discipline of eventing and the amount of work that goes into cross-country course building, especially for an event of this magnitude. In addition to admiring the determination of the horses and riders on cross-country day, spectators can observe the fine craftsmanship of the fences—the culmination of work that has taken place over several months, but honed over the majority of Costello’s lifetime.

Kathleen Landwehr

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12. AN OPEN CORNER WITH A FRANGIBLE PIN (LEFT) AND A REVERSE PIN (RIGHT) 13. A RAIL OF AN OXER WITH A MIM CLIP 14. ONE OF COSTELLO’S MANY CHAINSAW, BEING USED HERE TO CUT INTO A SECTION OF A RED OAK TREE PREVIOUSLY LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE KENTUCKY HORSE PARK’S BIG BARN. THE TREE PROVIDED THE FRONTS AND BACKS OF FENCE 17, THE DOUBLE BRUSHES.

34 Equestrian Spring 2016

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Legend® Multi Dose (hyaluronate sodium) Injectable Solution, Legend (hyaluronate sodium) Injectable Solution, BRIEF SUMMARY: Prior to use please consult the product insert, a summary of which follows: CAUTION: Federal Law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. INDICATIONS: Legend® Injectable Solution and Legend® Multi Dose Injectable Solution are indicated in the treatment of equine joint dysfunction associated with equine osteoarthritis. CONTRAINDICATIONS: There are no known contraindications for the use of Legend® Injectable Solution and Legend® Multi Dose Injectable Solution in horses. RESIDUE WARNINGS: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption. HUMAN WARNINGS: Not for use in humans. Keep out of reach of children. ANIMAL SAFETY WARNING: For Legend Injectable Solution 4 mL and Legend Multi Dose Injectable Solution – Not for Intra-articular use. The Intra-articular safety of hyaluronate sodium with benzyl alcohol has not been evaluated. PRECAUTIONS: Complete lameness evaluation should be conducted by a veterinarian. Sterile procedure during the injection process must be followed. Intra-articular injections should not be made through skin that is inflamed, infected or has had a topical product applied. The safety of Legend Injectable Solution and Legend Multi Dose has not been evaluated in breeding stallions or in breeding, pregnant or lactating mares. ADVERSE REACTIONS: No side effects were observed in Legend Injectable Solution clinical field trials. Side effects reported post-approval: Following intravenous use: Occasional depression, lethargy, and fever. Following intra-articular (Legend Injectable Solution – 2 mL only) use: joint or injection site swelling and joint pain. For medical emergencies or to report adverse reactions, call 1-800-422-9874. ANIMAL SAFETY SUMMARY: Animal safety studies utilizing Legend Multi Dose Injectable Solution were not performed. Legend Multi Dose Injectable Solution was approved based on the conclusion that the safety of Legend Multi Dose Injectable Solution will not differ from that demonstrated for the original formulation of Legend Injectable Solution. Legend Injectable Solution was administered to normal horses at one, three and five times the recommended intra-articular dosage of 20 mg and the intravenous dose of 40 mg. Treatments were given weekly for nine consecutive weeks. No adverse clinical or clinical pathologic signs were observed. Injection site swelling of the joint capsule was similar to that seen in the saline treated control horses. No gross or histological lesions were observed in areas of the treated joint. For customer care or to obtain product information, including a Material Safety Data Sheet, call 1-888-637-4251 Option 2. ®LEGEND is a registered trademark of Merial. ©2015 Merial, Inc., Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. EQUIOLG1512-A (03/15)

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PHOTO: RIO 2016/ BCMF ARQUITETOS

38 Equestrian Spring Issue 2016

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2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games: On the Road to Rio

An Olympic and Paralympic Games year brings added excitement in the equestrian world. Equestrian athletes are fine-tuning their training with hopes of making the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Teams. Fans anticipate the selection of athletes, hoping their favorites are in the running.

With only a few months to go before the Olympic and Paralympic Games, the following is a recap of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian Team selection processes, athletes who participated in Olympic and Paralympic promotional events, and a look at NBC’s Gold Map Initiative.

Olympic and Paralympic Team Selection Update The United States Equestrian Federation runs fair and transparent Olympic and Paralympic Team selection processes. Here is a look at the three Olympic disciplines, dressage, eventing, and show jumping, as well as the Paralympic discipline, para-equestrian dressage. usef.org

Eventing Athlete-and-horse combinations wishing to be considered for the U.S. Olympic Eventing Team must complete at least one designated competition between April 22, 2015 and June 12, 2016. These events have been designated as Selection Events. In 2016, two U.S. competitions serve as designated selection events: the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Land Rover CCI4* and the CCI3* at Jersey Fresh International Three-Day Event. Five international events round out the calendar of remaining designated events: Badminton CCI4* in Great Britain, May 4-8, Saumur CCI3* in France, May 19-22, Tattersalls CCI3* in Ireland, May 26-29, Bromont CCI3* in Canada, June 9-12, and Bramham CCI3* in Great Britain, June 9-12.

By no later than June 20, the Selectors, Team Coach (David O’Connor), and Team Veterinarian will evaluate the combinations based on a number of factors, including overall Spring Spring 2016 Issue Equestrian 39

performance and soundness of the athleteand-horse combination in the designated 2015/2016 competitions, previous international experience of the combination, athlete fitness, and a combination’s will to win, and will recommend the Team of four athleteand-horse combinations along with one traveling reserve to the U.S. Olympic Eventing Squad. All nominations to the 2016 U.S. Olympic Squad are subject to approval by the USEF Board of Directors and the United States Olympic Committee.

All athlete-and-horse combinations named to the Squad will be required to demonstrate continued preparation, soundness, and ability by competing at the Great Meadow International presented by Adequan in The Plains, Va., July 6-10.

Following the preparation event at Great Meadow, the Squad will train together in Florida before departing for Rio de Janeiro the last week of July. Competition at the Olympic Games takes place August 6-9. The dressage tests will be spread over two days, followed by cross-country and finishing with jumping, after which Team and Individual medals will be awarded.

Dressage The selection process for the U.S. Olympic Dressage Squad began on August 1, 2015. Athletes and their horses, vying for a spot on the short list, spent the winter and early spring competing in qualifying competitions in the U.S. and Europe. With combinations earning some of the highest scores ever recorded by American athletes on their home turf, it was a promising start to the selection process. The qualifying period comes to a close May 1, after which approximately eight athlete-and-horse combinations will be named to compete in European Observation Events.

In preparation for the Observation Events, the short-listed combinations will travel to Europe, where they may choose to train at the U.S. base in Retie, Belgium at Studfarm de Begijnhoeve. Three designated competitions will serve as Observation Events: CDIO5*/3* Compiegne in France, May 19-22, CDI5* Roosendaal in The Netherlands, June 1-5, and CDIO5*/3* Rotterdam in The Netherlands, June 22-26. Athletes are required to compete in at least two of the designated events, but may seek special permission to be exempt from the requirement under criteria outlined in the selection procedures.

Following the conclusion of the European Observation Events, but no later than 40 Equestrian Spring 2016

July 1, the Team Coach (Robert Dover), in consultation with the Selectors, will recommend the team of four athlete-and-horse combinations along with one traveling reserve to the U.S. Olympic Dressage Squad.

All nominations to the 2016 U.S. Olympic Squad are subject to approval by the USEF Board of Directors and the United States Olympic Committee.

The U.S. Olympic Dressage Squad will travel to Rio de Janeiro from Europe the first week of August. Competition gets underway August 10 with the Grand Prix Test. Team medals will be awarded following the Grand Prix Special Test on August 12. Combinations who qualify for the Grand Prix Freestyle will compete for Individual medals on August 15.

Show Jumping On April 13, the Short List for the U.S. Olympic Show Jumping Team was announced and included 10 athletes with 16 horses: • Lucy Davis with Barron • Margie Engle with Royce • Kent Farrington with Gazelle & Voyeur • Lauren Hough with Ohlala • Reed Kessler with Cylana • Laura Kraut with Deauville S & Zeremonie • Beezie Madden with Breitling LS, Cortes ‘C’, Quister, & Simon • Todd Minikus with Babalou 41 • Callan Solem with VDL Wizard • McLain Ward with HH Azur & Rothchild Like their Dressage counterparts, the athletes on the Show Jumping Short List will continue their selection process in Europe at Designated Observation Events. Four events will serve to aid in selection: CSIO5* La Baule in France, May 12-15, CSIO5* Rome in Italy, May 26-29, CSIO5* St. Gallen in Switzerland, June 2-5, and CSIO5* Rotterdam in The Netherlands, June 22-26. The Team Coach (Robert Ridland), in consultation with the Selectors, recommended the athletes for each designated CSIO observation event.

Following the conclusion of the Designated Observation Events, but no later than July 5, Ridland, in consultation with the Selectors, will recommend the team of four athlete-and-horse combinations along with one traveling reserve to the U.S. Olympic Show Jumping Squad. All nominations to the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team are subject to approval by the USEF Board of Directors and the United States Olympic Committee.

The U.S. Olympic Show Jumping Squad will travel to Rio de Janeiro from Europe the

THE GOLD MAP INITIATIVE: Where the Olympic and Paralympic Dream Starts Every four years, the summer Olympic and Paralympic Games excite and entertain millions across the country in a way that inspires them to want to get involved in new sports and learn about the history-in-the-making they are watching. This year, for individuals who read, watch, or hear about equestrian sports leading up to and during the Olympics and Paralympic Games on NBC media, the Gold Map initiative will make it easier than ever for them to connect with further information on how to get involved in the sport.

Partnering with NBC Universal, Gold Map is a collaborative project which is designed to encourage youth involvement and participation in Olympic and Paralympic sports in all areas throughout the country. Through the Gold Map campaign, NBC Universal will direct interested viewers to the new equestrian website hosted on the USEF’s website. A place for viewers to learn about the Olympic and Paralympic equestrian disciplines, new fans can find local trainers in their areas and explore ways to get connected with the sport. As NBC’s live coverage from Rio de Janeiro captivates the country’s attention and inspires young fans, Gold Map will give them a place to begin their own Olympic or Paralympic journey. Visit the United States Equestrian Federation’s Gold Map page at usef.org/goldmap. usef.org

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES, SUSANJSTICKL.E.COM

first week of August. Competition gets underway August 14 with the First Individual Qualifier. Two rounds of team competition will determine the Team medalists, August 16 and 17. Individual competition will take place August 19, where the final equestrian medals of the 2016 Olympic Games will be awarded.

Para-Equestrian Dressage Para-equestrian dressage will take place at the Paralympic Games, which will be held in Rio de Janeiro two weeks after the conclusion of the Olympic Games.

Athlete-and-horse combinations wishing to compete at the Selection Trial for the U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team are required to have met the qualifying criteria outlined in the selection procedures by May 15 in order to be eligible for an invitation. The Selection Trial will be held June 3-5 at the Waterloo Hunt Club in Grasslake, Mich.

The athlete-and-horse combinations will be ranked following the Selection Trial based on 50% of the combination’s overall performance at the Selection Trial and 50% of the combined overall score from the two best international level (CPEDI3*) competitions they competed in from January 1, 2015 through May 15, 2016.

After the Selection Trial, the Selectors, in consultation with the Team Coach (Kai Handt) and Team Veterinarian, will recommend four athlete-and-horse combinations to the U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team.

All nominations to the 2016 U.S. Paralympic Team are

subject to approval by the USEF Board of Directors and the United States Olympic Committee.

Prior to departing for Rio de Janeiro, the Team will train together at the Grand Oaks Resort and Museum in Lady Lake, Fla. Athletes and horses will arrive in Rio de Janeiro the first week of September. Competition takes place September 11-16 with nations contesting the Team tests on days one through three and Individual tests on days three through five.

Medals for Teams and Individuals are awarded following the conclusion of both tests. Combinations who qualify for the Freestyle will compete for additional Individual medals on September 16.

Clockwise from top: Beezie Madden (1), Rebecca Hart (2), Laura Graves (4), Sydney Collier (5), Angela Peavy (3)

Equestrian Athletes in the Spotlight Equestrian athletes participated in promotional activities over the last several months to build excitement for the Rio Olympic and Paralympic Games. The following is a snapshot of what they have been up to: • Beezie Madden (1) participated in the Team U.S.A. Media Summit in Los Angeles, Calif.

• U.S. Para Dressage athletes Rebecca Hart (2) and Angela Peavy (3) participated in a video shoot for team sponsor Deloitte.

• Laura Graves (4) participated in the Team U.S.A. Promotional Shoot in Los Angeles, Calif.

• With 100 days until the Rio Olympic Games, paradressage athlete Sydney Collier (5) participated in the Olympic and Paralympic celebration event in New York City on April 27.

An Olympic and Paralympic Games year brings added excitement in the equestrian world. usef.org

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Equestrian 41

Support your Team at the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games

Visit the U.S. Equestrian Team Registry Help Our Athletes Win Medals and Stand on the Podium When you choose a symbolic gift from the Registry you will make a huge impact on the success of OUR EQUESTRIAN TEAM IN RIO

Go to USET.org/registry and make your gift today!

Photos by Rebecca Walton and Mary Adelaide Brakenridge for Phelps Media Group, SusanJStickle.com

Central Kentucky’s Finest Homes & Horse Farms

Hill & Regan Parker 859-608-8039 WWW.LEXHORSEFARMS.COM Please contact us with any of your real estate needs

Real Horse People Helping Real Horse People 5222 Paris Pike, Lexington Sporting one of the finest homes in Kentucky! This 447 acre, historic horse farm is located on one of the best horse streets in the world. The estate features 74 stalls in 5 barns, 5 auxiliary residences/offices, multiple equipment barns, a lake, treelines paved roads, gated entries, original spring house, European style walker, double fenced paddocks with stately trees, and frontage on 2 roads. The circa 1830 mansion has been lovingly restored with no expense spared. The home has the finest detailed millwork that you can find, original ash floors, coffered ceilings, intricately detailed built-ins, paneled office, tons of finely crafted wainscoting, first floor owner's suite, commercial grade electric, hand crafted shutters that retract into the walls, a 48 foot long great room, and numerous other amenities. This is the finest home and estate Kentucky has to offer! $11,750,000 1590 Carpenter Pike, Versailles Turn key 15 acre horse farm with 15 stalls in 3 barns. The new barn has stalls that open to one of the paddocks (so they can be used as run-in as well). There is 50'x 50' sand ring. There are 4 additional run-ins in the other paddocks.

The main house features one floor living, hardwoods, updated kitchen and master bath, and a basement apartment. $695,000 723 Harrods Creek Road, Paris Fabulous land featuring 15 acres! The brick ranch has had a major renovation including a new copper roof, bathrooms, windows, patio, new gas logs, and doors. The kitchen has been redone with new stainless appliances, cabinetry, granite, double oven, and large new openings into the family room and dining room. The current owners have added miles of diamond wire mesh fencing and Lucas gates (that swing both ways) throughout the farm. Located in the immediate vicinity of Creekside Farm (owned by Coolmore), Xalapa and Adena Springs. Additional land is available. $349,000

Yarnallton Road, Georgetown Super location, less than 2 miles from the Kentucky Horse Park. This idyllic setting features 5 acres of level to gently rolling land with horses grazing in all directions. Over 80% Maury and McAfee soils so you cannot beat the land quality. Additional land is available. $105,000

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Located in the Heart of the Bourbon Trail Energetic, upbeat and casual, Napa Prime is the perfect place to grab a gourmet burger, craft beer, wine or cocktail in a relaxed setting. Visit us today and discover why we have become the area's favorite dining experience.

508 Lexington Road Versailles, KY 40383 859 873-0600

Mon – Sat I 11am – 10pm Sun I 10:30am – 9pm 10:30am – 2pm (brunch)

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4/12/16 11:53 AM

Explore Ashland, the beloved estate of Henry Clay, Senator, Speaker of the House, Secretary of State, the Great Compromiser. Tour the house and enjoy the

17-acre estate including its historic outbuildings, formal garden, majestic and ancient trees, and stroll the paths once walked by Henry Clay and other important figures of the day.

Guided tours on the hour, $10 adults, $5 students, AAA discount. Go to Henryclay.org for a complete listing of tour dates, times and directions.

Tours: March – December 10am – 4pm Tuesday – Saturdays 1 – 4pm Sundays (April – November) Closed on National Holidays Also visit our Ginkgo Tree Cafe featuring salads and sandwiches.

Serving from 11am – 2pm, Tuesday – Saturday.

120 Sycamore Road, Lexington 40502 | 859-266-8581 | www.HenryClay.Org

Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate is managed and operated by the Henry Clay Memorial Foundation, a private not-for-profit organization in service to the public.

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Explore the Tastes of Lexington

Shopping Dining

Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate

The highlight of a visit to Ashland is the guided tour of the 18-room mansion. You will enter the front door and begin a journey through the Clay family mansion and time travel from the 18th century to the present. Guided tours of the mansion take approximately one hour.

To take advantage of the full “Ashland Experience,” you’ll want to allow additional time to see the permanent Henry Clay exhibit room, an informational video about Henry Clay, and to enjoy the Museum Store. Outdoor options are plentiful, with a self-guided tour of the outbuildings, formal garden, and walking trails, and Civil War monument. The grounds are free to visit year-round.

120 Sycamore Road, Lexington, KY 40502 (859) 266-8581 Tuesday through Saturday (March to December): 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday (April to November): 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The last tour of the day begins at 4 p.m.

Admission Adults: $10 // AAA Members: $9 // Students: $5 // Children five and under: Free

Doodles

A shrimp farmer/artist/restaurateur remodeled a gas station into a super trendy spot for breakfast or lunch. Try the dirty shrimp and grits or the grilled biscuits. Doodles restaurant serves “comfort food with a conscience.”

262 North Limestone, Lexington, KY 40507 859-317-8507 Tuesday through Sunday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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Shopping Dining

Gratz Park Inn

Nestled in the heart of Kentucky horse and bourbon country, Gratz Park Inn is the only small boutique hotel located in Lexington’s Historic District, within walking distance to all downtown has to offer. Whether you’re a wedding guest, horse enthusiast, bourbon aficionado, corporate traveler, or vacationer, the Inn is your destination for historic charm and southern hospitality.

The hotel offers a rich combination of appreciating the past while enjoying modern comforts.

What could be more inviting than sinking into one of the cozy Italian leather chairs in its well-appointed library, sipping some exquisite locally-distilled bourbon while reading a history of the area?

The hotel is full of one-of-a-kind furnishings and luxury extras.

Distilled at Gratz Park serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Chef Mark Wombles and team specialize in farm-to-table fare, incorporating an artful and elevated approach to southern cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere, removing all unnecessary ingredients from fine dining, and leaving only the artistic expression food.

120 West Second Street, Lexington, KY 40507 859-231-1777 Distilled at Gratz Park Hours Breakfast Monday through Saturday: 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Lunch Monday through Saturday: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dining Sunday through Thursday: 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Weekend Dining Friday and Saturday: 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Weekend Bar Friday and Saturday: 5:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.

FatKats Pizzeria

FatKats Pizzeria loads its pizzas, pastas, burgers, salads, subs, and dough all the way to the edge with homemade freshness and flavor. Homemade isn’t just a catch phrase at FatKats. You will find homemade items highlighted throughout the menu. In fact, many menu items can only be found at FatKats, like homemade pizza rolls, bread sticks, beer cheese, and made fresh dough. Savor the FatKats experience: award-winning pizza, Angus burgers, beer-battered fish, heavenly subs, mouthwatering pastas, fresh-cut salads, and friendly service!

3070 Paris Pike, Georgetown, KY 40324 502-570-0773 Sunday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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2015 Trip Advis Certificate of E

Three Time Wi Best Pizza Mid

Closest full service to the Kentucky H I75N to exit 125 tu

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Closest full service restaurant HAPPY HOUR DAILY HAPPY HOUR DAILY to the Kentucky Horse Park I75N to exit 125 turn right.

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Napa Prime Burgers and Seafood

Shopping Dining

Tony’s of Lexington

Rose and Lime

The goal at Rose and Lime is to provide you with the highest quality of customer service and the convenience of shopping in a beautiful boutique as you relax or while you’re on the go. They’ve spent months planning and meeting with designers to bring you high-quality, contemporary fashions at an affordable price. Whether you’re going on a special date, headed to the racetrack, or looking for some comfortable, casual attire, you will find it at Rose and Lime.

Rose and Lime is also pleased to offer a growing selection of unique collegiate and Greek merchandise. Their jewelry and accessories are second to none and include top designers. Any items listed by designer are guaranteed to be authentic.

535 South Upper St. @ Center Court on UK’s Campus, Lexington, KY 40508 859-317-9550 Tuesday through Friday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Freedman’s

The Freedman’s Leather story began in 1802, and it continues today with a lineage of master craftsmen who all shared the same vision, each in a different time, and with the same results: quality craftsmanship with the finest materials. The products have changed over time, but the essence remains the same. Steeped in the traditions of equestrian sport, Freedman’s harnesses, saddles, bridles, bags, and leather goods all echo a commitment to excellence that dates back six generations.

136 East Main Street, Midway, KY 40347 859-846-9674 Monday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Napa Prime Burgers and Seafood

Locally owned and operated, Napa Prime offers chef-inspired gourmet burgers, fresh seafood, small plates, local craft beer, world-class bourbons, and the best wines Napa Valley has to offer in a relaxed setting on the Bourbon Trail. Come see why this “culinary twist on an American Classic” has everyone talking!

508 Lexington Road, Versailles, KY 40383 859-873-0600 Monday through Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday: 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. brunch

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Red State BBQ

Red State BBQ was founded in October 2010 by Scott Ahlschwede. An equine vet by profession, Texas native, and a darn good grill master in his own right, Scott simply wanted a place to have some good barbecue and a beer. As luck would have it, he found the lovely Sunset Motel with the old Sunset Restaurant out in front. Ever since, people stopping at the little roadside BBQ joint on U.S. 25 have been able to enjoy brisket, ribs, chicken, and pork on a daily basis along with all the great side dishes it has to offer. All of the sides are made daily and Red State is Kentucky Proud.

4020 Georgetown Road, Lexington, KY 40511 859-233-7898 Sunday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Stella’s Kentucky Deli

Stella’s Kentucky Deli is dedicated to local farmers and to supporting local food economies. Its mission is to produce simple, high-quality foods that emphasize the superior flavors and textures of fresh, local ingredients. To achieve this, Stella’s makes all of its sandwiches, soups, and desserts by hand, in house, using whatever ingredients are seasonably available. You can enjoy a home-cooked meal at the historic downtown location, or call with catering requests.

143 Jefferson Street, Lexington, KY 40507 859-255-3354 Monday and Tuesday: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wednesday and Thursday: 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday: 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The Blue Heron Steakhouse

The Blue Heron Steakhouse is a comfortable and chic, locally-owned restaurant and cocktail bar serving a menu comprised of steakhouse classics and southern fare such as premium cuts of beef, fresh oysters, locally-raised fried chicken, and Caesar salad with fired white anchovies along with an extensive, innovative wine and cocktail list.

The Blue Heron has transformed from an upscale handcrafted cocktail bar to one of Lexington’s finest restaurants with the recent completion of a new kitchen addition. The Blue Heron offers dinner Tuesday through Saturday with a two-sided wood burning fireplace and charming ambience in a renovated historic home. Located in the thriving Jefferson Street corridor, The Blue Heron exemplifies the new style of this popular, revitalized Lexington neighborhood.

You’ve Known Quality All Your Life www.freedmanharness.com 10 minutes from the Kentucky Horse Park 136 E. Main St. Midway, KY 40347 859.846.9674 Monday thru Saturday 10am- 5pm

185 Jefferson Street, Lexington, KY 40508 859-254-2491 Kitchen open Monday through Thursday: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Kitchen open Friday and Saturday: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Bar open Monday through Saturday: 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. usef.org

Harness. Saddles. Bridles. Bags. Belts. Leathergoods.

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170 Jefferson St Lexington, KY 133 E. Main St Midway, KY 509 Main St Paris, KY

OR

The Grey Goose

Hand-rolled, New York-style thin crust pizza. Never-frozen USDA Choice ribeye steaks and burgers. Fresh salads with homemade dressings. A full bar with local and regional specialty cocktails. Great food with fantastic patios in historic downtown Lexington.

“Why Stay in a Hotel?”

170 Jefferson Street Lexington, KY 40507 859-233-1500 Sunday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday through Saturday: 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.

The Tack Shop of Lexington

The Tack Shop of Lexington provides a great selection of quality equestrian supplies at their tack shop in Kentucky.

With a wide range of brands and horse supplies, The Tack Shop of Lexington is an outstanding resource for equestrians from southern Indiana and Ohio, and all of Kentucky.

Need a go-to horse supply store?

Their saddlery features English riding apparel & equipment including bridles, bits, boots, and more. Choose from an array of excellent brand names in tack, including Equifit, Grand Prix, and Hill Top Leather.

Whether you’re training for an event or leisure riding, their riding & saddle shop carries all the horse apparel and equestrian supplies to keep you and your horse comfortable, safe, and stylish in all riding conditions. For everything from horse blankets to helmets, you’ll have your choice of top brands and styles at our tack shop in Kentucky.

• Fully Furnished Corporate Apartments with Upscale Furnishings • • Weekly Housekeeping • • Washer and Dryer in Every Apartment • • Minimum Stay 2 Nights • All of our apartments are in luxury communities with ideal locations close to Keeneland and the Horse Park.

Stay with us for your next horse event! lexingtonrelocation.com • 859.273.3303 reservations@lexingtonrelocation.com

1510 Newtown Pike #124 Lexington, KY 40511 859-368-0810 Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. usef.org

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Tony’s of Lexington

Tony’s Steaks & Seafood is a different kind of steakhouse.

Across from Rupp Arena in The Square on West Main, Tony’s is the perfect location for a meal or bite in our vivacious bar, spacious dining room, or private dining areas. Among the top-rated steakhouses by Zagat and voted “Diner’s Choice Winner” by Open Table Diners, Tony’s Steaks & Seafood is the perfect mixture of an eclectic urban feel, traditional southern charm, and unparalleled service.

401 West Main Street Lexington, KY 40507 859-243-0210 Sunday & Monday: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Tuesday through Thursday: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday & Saturday: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Portofino

Portofino features an inventive menu of Italian and American cuisine. Located in a beautifully renovated building on Main Street in downtown Lexington, Ky., Portofino has an elegant interior design, a menu with the highest quality ingredients, and an extensive wine list.

The menu offers fresh food from local producers as well as the best ingredients from around the world. Portofino has earned the Wine Spectator Award eight years in row, from 2003 through 2010 and is proud to offer such a rich and varied selection. The staff at Portofino is committed to providing its guests with the finest dining experience possible.

249 East Main Street Lexington, KY 40507 859-253-9300 Monday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday: 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Saturday: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Sunday: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

52 Equestrian Spring 2016

Established 2010

2 minutes from the Horse Park!!

NOW OPEN!!

Lexington’s ONLY multi-award winning roadside barbecue joint Barbecue the way you want it to be…

GOOD. 4020 Georgetown Road Lexington, Kentucky

7 days a week

BBQ Tapas Menu

Local and Regional Craft Beer Carefully Selected Wines

123 Opera Alley Georgetown, Kentucky

Designer Apparel at 20-70% off Lilly Pulitzer Jack Rogers Gretchen Scott Sail to Sable & more Equestrian Jewelry, Gifts, Bridal, Accessories Girls clothing Size 4-14; Women’s Clothing XXS-3X 535 South Upper St. @ Center Court on UK’s Campus Lexington KY 40508 (859) 317-9550

FREE GARAGE PARKING

usef.org

Changing the way you look at equestrian sport.

ON-DEMAND

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Around the country.

Across the sport.

on your own time.

Every USEF Network broadcast is available on-demand for you to

Every week USEF Network brings a different event to your screens.

watch when and where you want.

WATCH ON YOUR

FREE Being an equestrian isn’t always easy. You deserve some perks for your commitment. USEF Network is one of them. Whether you’re a member or not, our live shows will ALWAYS be free to watch.

usef.org

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Open every day, 10:30am - 4pm for lunch Wednesday - Sunday, 4pm - 9pm for dinner Saturday & Sunday, 9am - 2pm for brunch (lunch menu is also available during brunch hours)

Serving Kentucky classics and contemporary favorites since 1981.

Dedicated to supporting local farmers, brewers, and distillers.

Stella’s Kentucky Deli 143 Jefferson Street Lexington, KY 40508

859 255-DELI 859 255-3354 stellaskentuckydeli@gmail.com

www.StellasKentuckyDeli.com

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54 Equestrian Spring 2016

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INTERSTATE

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Anyone can use these boots and any busy competition barn should make them a must have!”

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Save up to 20% on year-round rentals with Hertz速 when you include your USEF discount code CDP# 15757 in your reservation.

Combine this CDP# with seasonal promotional offers for added savings.

Book online at www.hertz.com/usef or call Hertz at (800) 654-3131.

Visit www.hertz.com/usef for more information

Co-Listed with Biederman Real Estate

FAYETTE CO. │ 500+ acres w/a lovely historic residence in N. Fayette Co., only minutes to KHP. Rarely does a farm of this size, location and quality become available. $8,250,000

NEAR KEENELAND │ 38.69± acre estate with a lovely, custom residence set among mature trees and the Elkhorn Creek. A remarkable South-Lexington location. $2,494,000

S. TAYLOR LANE │ 52± acre working horse operation just off Carrick Pike with a 3BR home and 39 stalls in two very functional barns. Desirable and manageable tract size. $1,200,000

SCOTT CO. │ 723± acre premier carriage driving/equestrian facility w/28 stalls, indoor arena, farm office and fabulous main residence. Only 5.5± miles off I-75. $5,100,000

HUNT COUNTRY │ Magnificentlyrestored ca. 1825 Federal home in the Iroquois Hunt country on 117± acres of very good land. Only 10 minutes to Hamburg. $2,285,000

IRON WORKS │ 16-acre equestrian facility only four min. from the Kentucky Horse Park with an indoor arena, eight large stalls, living quarters and five paddocks. $997,500

MCCALLS MILL │ 179± acres in Iroquois Hunt country with an entirely custom 7,833+/- sq.ft. main residence, 10-stall barn, two cabins & sand arena. Divisible. $2,950,000

RUSSELL CAVE │ Incredible 95± acre Fayette County estate with historic main residence, 13-stall barn, six fields, four paddocks & heated field waterers. Location! $2,850,000

BOURBON CO. │ Remarkable 137± acres anchored by a 9,274± sq. ft.

MT. HOREB PIKE │ Fabulous twostory executive home on 10± acres

brick home with a tremendous kitchen & first-floor Master suite w/ sunroom & kitchenette. $1,950,000

overlooking Castleton with 6-stall barn and sand arena. Only 4-miles from the KY Horse Park! $1,390,000

OLD LEMONS MILL │ Exceptionally well-located 40± acre farm with a 20stall barn and very nice equipment shed. Adjoining premier Thoroughbred nurseries. $525,000

LISLE ROAD │ 28± acres near the Kentucky Horse Park! A superb location (only 5± min. to equine hospitals and the Park) with an excellent lay to the land. $490,000

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Trending

SHOW RING STYLE

T

HE TIMES THEY ARE ACHANGIN’ AND THE FASHION IN THE SHOW RING IS NO EXCEPTION. READ ON FOR WHAT TO WEAR TO PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD. While bling is not going anywhere, riders across all disciplines have begun to push traditional show-ring acceptable attire boundaries more than ever. What has not changed, however, is clothing maker’s diligence to providing clothes that feature stretch fabrics with moisture-wicking properties, letting you show in comfort AND style.

As always, if you question the legality of any item of apparel you wish to wear, refer to the USEF rulebook at usef.org to make sure it is legal in your discipline.

60 Equestrian Spring 2016

PHOTOS: WINNING COUTURE, HOBBY HORSE CLOTHING CO., SHOW RING OUTFITTERS, TREDSTEP, BROWBANDS WITH BLING

1. Western show pen looks this year feature fancy fabrics and reflective trims; hot colors are jade, teal, and raspberry—all of which can be easily seen from across the ring. Also in are the color combinations of navy and copper or whiskey, moving away from the more-traditional black paired with other hues. Elaborate, graphic patterns are also showing up in rings across the country. // Custom show shirts from Winning Couture ensure you show in slimming style. winningcouture.com // Elaborate, graphic patterns are also showing up in rings across the country. The Heidi SwitchIt Jacket from Hobby Horse Clothing Company has a vibrant taupe, black, and red print topped with a web of bright silver, metallic foil, making it perfect for riding classes. Add the optional SwitchIt collar and cuffs for an extra-fancy finish. hobbyhorseinc.com 2. The saddle seat world has also embraced the change to more athletic-style fabrics, moving away from 100 percent wool suits to a wool- or stretch-fabric blend and even silk, all with a slight sheen. Light-colored jackets are also trending instead of conservative all-navy and black.

For junior and amateur riders, subtle patterns like paisley for the formal classes are in, and juvenile riders are using bling on crops and ties. // One place saddle seat riders are adding a bit of bling is on their whips. This black whip is trimmed with gold and clear, crystal stones. Available as a gaited or dressage whip. showringoutfitters.com

usef.org

PHOTOS: GPA, ENGLISH RIDING SUPPLY, FABIANO MITCHELL, SMART PAK EQUINE, DEVON-AIRE, SWANKY SADDLE CO., HORSE LOVERS OUTLET

The English disciplines, including eventing, show jumping, hunters, and equitation, have come a long way from the traditional velvet hunt caps and navy show coats.

Pops of color can be found at even the most elite competitions.

3. The Tredstep Solo Pro lets riders show their true colors with a traditionally-styled jacket with interchangeable collars and reversible buttons. tredstep.com 4. Carefully handcrafted from Swarovski crystals, these one-of-a-kind browbands will make you stand out from the moment you enter the ring. You can choose the shape, color, and design of each piece. browbandswithbling.com 5. A new generation of GPA helmets are entering the show ring and they’re as light as ever; the EVO+2X is even more comfortable and adjustable than its predecessors. Available in both tone-on-tone and bicolor, it also comes in several finishes, including customizable leather colors and carbon. gpa-sport.com // If bling is more your thing, the Ovation Glitz helmet has frosted sticker accents on both the front and the back, and the helmet comes in black, brown, and navy with pink, silver, teal, or light blue sparkles. ovationriding.com 6. EGO7, an innovative Italian-designed riding boot crosses all English disciplines; available as both a dress and a field boot, the soft leather is enhanced with a synthetic, water-resistant fabric called E-Tex. fabianomitchell.com 7. The FITS Zephyr Dressage Show Coat is made from black power mesh with stunning silver piping; the zipper closure is hidden behind easy-on, easy-off snaps. The feminine seaming and double-vented back only add to the design. fitsriding.com 8. Devon-Aire’s Signature Cordoba Breech offers formflattering woven spandex fabric, grippy silicone knee patches, and elastic ankle panels, as well as faux back pockets and decorative buttons. devonaire.com 9. Monogramming everything that doesn’t move is still in style, especially in the hunter world. Trending now are helmet monograms (which can be subtle or a standout), heat-transfer breech monograms, and customized saddle plates in a variety of styles, all of which will make sure no one steals your stuff. swankysaddle.com 10. Even endurance is getting on board with adding color to everything! EasyCare E-Z Ride Nylon Stirrups deliver both comfort and quality; the thick closed-foam pad provides comfort for the knees and back, helping prevent overall fatigue. Available in a plethora of colors (including DayGlo, reflective, and camo), the shock-absorbing top bar adds extra comfort without the bounce. horseloversoutlet.com Sarah E. Coleman

usef.org

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Image -Tracy Trevorrow

FROM SUCCESS TO SUCCESS MATT JOHNSON AND PETERSBORG'S QASANOVA

Über Realtor Matt Johnson: "It’s all in the connection!"

by Eric Gaskins

Matt Johnson is that easy going powerhouse real estate agent, Dressage competitor, devoted friend and model son who makes everything he does look so easy. After riding shotgun recently for a week I saw first-hand that Matt is a genius juggler. You try keeping an ever growing, multi-million dollar business, a riding/training schedule with a 6 year old stallion who shows signs everyday of being a child prodigy and a life that includes his friends, family, colleagues… try imagining juggling all that and you start to get the picture.

Matt and I have been friends since the days when I came religiously year after year with my horse to train for the season. Matt was my Realtor before becoming one of my closest friends. Year after year he found wonderful places for me to nest, making my escapes painless from harsh NYC winters to this wonderland called Wellington. Over these many years, Matt has become a master of his universe. In the past 3 years alone he's sold close to 100 million dollars in properties. It’s his quiet confidence, that "Zen" quality, which impressed me during my visit with this past Christmas.The first thing you notice spending time with Matt is that his phone NEVER STOPS RINGING. From his morning coffee at about 7am he's already receiving

calls, reading emails and sending and answering text messages. His office sets the day’s schedule but due to the many calls that continue to come in, it can alter as late as midnight; about the time Matt calls it a day.

While I'm busy trying to remember what day it is, Matt's studying the details of the multiple listings he'll show that day, going over business with his assistant Jessica Perez and coordinating with his coach and the barn for his morning lesson on Qasanova, his 6 year old Danish-bred stallion. Matt is brilliant with details answering just about every question posed as he takes clients through bespoke homes and state of the art farms that defy description. That attention to detail has everything to do with his success in business

Matt Johnson and Orisette

and in his chosen discipline: Dressage.

By 9 am we're at the barn pulling on boots and checking Qasanova over as he’s prepped for Matt's lesson with past Olympian and

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coach, Debbie McDonald. From the moment he enters the barn, Matt turns off the noise of his pressured life and focuses on the work at hand. For the next 2 hours he will be listening to and processing myriad information coming from Debbie (I call her his Guru) and communicating it to Qasanova. The patience and discipline necessary to succeed at this sport is never more evident than during these training sessions. Nothing is rushed and nothing is half done. Matt's attention to his riding is second only to his attention to his horse's needs. Qasanova’s care is paramount with nothing left to others to decide. More than once I asked him how he has the energy to do everything before his workday technically begins. By the time he's finished at the barn I'm exhausted.

After a quick shower and change, Matt has traded one uniform for another. From breeches, boots and the pick-up truck, he switches to a smart urban look and his sleek Mercedes.

He's the picture of cool. For the next several

Aspen Glen, 6259 Homeland Road. Lake Worth, Fl 33449

hours he traverses. Wellington and its neighboring communities showing properties to interested clients. On this particular day he has 5 scheduled showings that will take him from Wellington to Lake Worth, Loxahatchee and back again to Wellington. With rolling stops for food, coffee and time to take more calls and text messages, Matt schedules listing appointments, appraisals and more showings. I check my watch and it's only 12:30 pm. The first showing of the day is a listing in the Homeland section of Lake Worth. Before the clients arrive, Matt goes through the house turning on lights, securing the wildlife (rampaging lap dogs) and getting it set for its close-up. Nothing escapes his notice. A 4 bedroom home on 1 acre with a pool will get the same attention as will Aspen Glen, a 15 acre horse farm with its magnificent barn, multiple arenas, 6 paddocks, separate Groom's building and main house.

With multiple bedrooms, a chef's kitchen, endless grounds and an elevator this bespoke

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What stands out most is Matt's quiet approach to selling properties, which range from the most extraordinary to the relatively modest.

His belief that every home finds its owner is never truer than when I watch him introduce these properties to their prospective buyers.

It's a delicate dance not unlike Dressage. Matt doesn't impose his will on his clients but instead allows them to find what feels right for them. Integrity and honesty are his watchwords. On this particular day there are 2 sets of returning clients, people whose homes he's sold and again helping them find new properties.

Potential buyers pepper Matt with questions on the dimensions of the covered arena, the materials used, the composition of the footing, the locations of drainage and irrigation. They ask about the design of the kitchen, the make of the roof tiles, the efficacy of concrete blocks vs. wood. In addition, they ask if he can suggest an architect, a builder

Matt Johnson and Jessica Perez - ENGEL & VOLKERS

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The questions cover all the bases from the comfort of the horses to the comfort of the humans and everything in between. Matt answers all of them and makes suggestions of his own that address more questions even before they are asked.

II learn thatthat much more learned much moreofofthe thework, work, Matt's Matt’s magic touch, takes place after hours when many of us would be relaxing and calling it a day. At this late hour Matt is on his computer and conferring with his assistant, Jessica. So much of the minutiae that leads to the closing is coordinated seamlessly behind the scenes; i.e. contracts drawn up, drafts sent to lawyers, engineering reports analyzed, mortgage and closing documents reviewed, etc. Matt is that rare professional who takes responsibility for his work down to the finest detail making what is a very complex process clear and relatively painless. Matt Johnson is a master in the art of finesse. Ego, in a business rife with the outsized and the easily bruised, is conspicuously absent in just about all of his dealings. The values he was taught by his parents in rural Vermont, worlds away from the phenomenon of Wellington have never deserted him. I can honestly say that his humility has grown just as steadily as has his success.

Matt Johnson is not only a real estate agent and passionate Dressage competitor; he's also a therapist, confessor, best friend and a steady voice of reason. Matt is called upon to serve his clients in countless ways and all in the service of the ultimate goal: finding the right match of buyer and property. He's deft at this as he's a born listener and a man with a deep well of empathy. Having built his business and his riding from the ground up, he is a realist in a business built on aspiration and dream fulfillment. I can't think of a real estate agent I'd trust more with such a delicate operation. It is this combination of trust, satisfaction and joy that keep his clients, both old and new, coming back.

64 Equestrian Spring 2016

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