Week in Review - U.S. Equestrian Federation's Weekly E-Newsletter

Jennifer Wooten-Dafoe and The Good Witch.

Photo by Mike McNally

2010 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Bridgestone Brings the Best in the World to the Kentucky Horse Park

It's that time again. Winter vanished and suddenly the 2010 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Bridgestone has arrived. Bigger than ever in 2010, the competition, which also serves as the USEF National CCI**** Eventing Championship, boasts many of the very best in the game both from the U.S. and around the globe. The action got under way at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, April 22, 2010.

All eyes will be firmly fixed on Oliver Townend as he tries to join the elite company of his fellow Brit, Pippa Funnell, and become only the second rider ever to win the $350,000 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. Townend won the 2009 Mitsubishi Badminton Horse Trials and the 2009 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials—the Grand Slam is awarded to the rider who can win any of these three events in succession, so Townend is, therefore, the only rider currently in contention. He rides ODT Master Rose and Ashdale Cruise Master in his quest for history.

Club Equestrian's Photo Contest at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event

Submit your photos from the 2010 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Bridgestone by May 2 for a chance to win Dubarry boots.

Enter the Contest Now

More News from the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by Bridgestone

More Eventing News

Tina Konyot on Calecto V.

Photo by MDunnPhoto.com

Konyot Guides Calecto V to Kentucky Cup Grand Prix Win

Tina Konyot of Palm City, FL, and her stallion Calecto V scored 70.63% to top a field of 25 in the Kentucky Cup Grand Prix. The Kentucky Cup is the test event for the dressage World Championships that will be one of the eight competitions at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

Belinda Trussell of Newmarket, Ontario, finished second on Anton (70.21%), and Bonny Bonnello of Calgary, Alberta, finished third on Pikardi (68.63%).

The winning riders each had high praise for the Kentucky Horse Park, which will be the first U.S. venue ever to host the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, from September 25 to October 10.

"Everything is spectacular here, and everyone involved is working hard to make sure the horses are happy and comfortable...so hard that my horse thinks he wants to be a Kentucky stallion!" said Konyot, 48.

"I love it, and so does my horse," said Bonnello, 59.

More Dressage News

SmartPak™ Signs on as "Official Tack and Equipment Supplier to the USEF" and adds Sponsorship of the Adult Amateur Hunter Ranking List to its Existing USEF Sponsorships

Expanding its already considerable support of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), SmartPak™ has signed on as "Official Tack and Equipment Supplier to the USEF." In addition, SmartPak will be adding sponsorship of the new Adult Amateur Hunter Ranking List to the list of other programs SmartPak supports, which include the USEF Week in Review and the North American Young Rider Reining Championship.

"The USEF has done so much for equestrian sport, and we are grateful for their leadership on the issues that matter to horse people," commented SmartPak founder Rebecca Minard. "We are thrilled to be able to contribute back to this organization that has done so much for our customers over the years and in the future."

Platinum Performance® Continues Support of the USEF Show Jumping Talent Search Finals

The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is pleased to announce that Platinum Performance® will continue as title sponsor for the USEF Show Jumping Talent Search Finals in 2010. They will also continue their designation as "Official Sports Nutrition Supplement Company" of the USEF.

Platinum Performance® equine nutritional products were originally developed in 1996 by veterinarians at Alamo Pintado Equine Medical Center, and the company continues to utilize the latest nutrition research in formulation of products designed to support complete wellness, performance, and longevity of equine athletes.Platinum Performance provides its clients with educational resources needed to help them make well-informed decisions about maintaining the health of their horses, and has been a proud sponsor of USEF since 2007.

Farnam® Remains Important Partner for USEF and United States Equestrian Team

Farnam® has been an integral part of equestrian sport in the United States, and its support of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) and the United States Equestrian Team goes back for years. With more than 60 years of expertise, Farnam Companies, Inc., is one of the most recognizable names in the animal health care industry, and its equine product division is the largest marketer of horse care products in the United States, offering more than 150 products covering nutrition, fly and parasite control, leg and hoof care, wound care, grooming, stable supplies and leather care.

"Farnam has been a rock-solid sponsor for more than five years now," shared John Long, USEF Chief Executive Officer. "Chris Jacobi and his staff at Farnam bring a lot of energy to the programs they support, and are often involved in a very hands-on way. We appreciate their continued commitment to the Federation, its athletes and its members."

USEF Partners with 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games to Offer Ticketing, Hospitality and Parking Opportunities for USEF Members

The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is pleased to announce a partnership with the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games that will allow USEF members to purchase event tickets, daily hospitality passes, and parking passes with ease. A portion of the proceeds from these sales will support the USEF's high-performance athletes who represent the U.S. in international competition, including the 2010 Games.

The 2010 Games will take place September 25-October 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY, and will feature championships in eight FEI recognized disciplines. This is the first time the Games will be held outside of Europe.

Don't Miss Coverage from the Kentucky Spring Premier Horse Show

ClubEquestrian.com features special coverage from the Kentucky Spring Premier, including information about the show, photos, and videos. Were you at the event? Add your videos and photos to the coverage. Become a fan of the event. Visit www.clubequestrian.com/coverage/2010KSP.aspx.

Mario Deslauriers and Urico.

Photo by Rebecca Walton/Phelps Media Group

Disappointment for the Americans at the Rolex/FEI World Cup Final; Deslauriers Finishes Sixth in Controversial Final

For the American show jumping community, the 2010 Rolex/FEI World Cup Final in Geneva, Switzerland will not be remembered for what happened on the field of play, but for a controversial decision by the Ground Jury involving the disqualification of Sapphire (ridden by McLain Ward) after the second leg.

On top of the world after the first two legs, and with a variety of riders winning the majority of the classes throughout the horse show, the U.S. looked poised to end a World Cup drought that had spanned two decades. Mario Deslauriers, lay second after the first two legs and inherited the lead after the disqualification of Sapphire and very much held his own with Urico—jumping flawless throughout the first two legs of the competition. But when it came down to the title, it wasn’t meant to be for Deslauriers, who had used his experience to coax three clear rounds out of Jane Clark’s nine-year-old prodigy. But the second round of Sunday’s finale proved to be one too many, and three down (plus a time fault) dropped the 1984 champion from the top spot to sixth. A wonderful horse for the future for the United States, Urico held his own against the best and most experienced in the world.

“It was all going so well overall until Friday night,” said
Delauriers. “We are all disappointed about what happened to McLain. It is unfair. For my last round here I was very disappointed. You don’t get many chances to win a World Cup Final. But we will get over this and go forward. My horse jumped fantastic. I have the best horse. He was fantastic; he tried his best. After the triple I thought I had a clear round, but then we both panicked a little bit at that vertical, then we regrouped and had two cheap fences. It just goes that way sometimes, I just wish it hadn’t gone that way today.”

More Hunter/Jumper News

Win a Trip to the 2010 Alltech® FEI™ World Equestrian Games with Ariat

Tell Ariat about your passion for riding, and enter to win the trip of a lifetime, plus other great prizes

Ariat International, the leading manufacturer of performance equestrian footwear, apparel and belts, is pleased to announce the exciting new “Why I Ride Promotion” for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

The contest runs April 15 through May 16, 2010. Entering is easy—simply head on over to www.ariat.com/WhyIRide and submit a story about your passion for riding, horses and the great outdoors. Share your tale, get the most votes and become a finalist. From there, a panel of judges, plus the popular vote, will determine the lucky winners!

Prizes include:
• Grand Prize – A trip for two to the 2010 Alltech® FEI™ World Equestrian Games in Lexington, KY. The package includes airfare for two, two night’s hotel stay and tickets for two to up to four events plus $500 spending money. The winner will also receive $1,000 retail value of Ariat® product.
• Second Prize – $1,000 retail value of Ariat® product
• Third Prize – $500 retail value of Ariat® product

Saddlebreds, and other breeds, compete year after year at the Devon Horse Show. Shown here is Callaway's Mystical Moment.
Photo by Bob Moseder

Preparations Under Way for 114th Devon Horse Show, Entries Close on Monday, April 26

The Saddlebred Friends of Devon are currently under way preparing for the 2010 Devon Horse Show, set to take place Thursday, May 27, through Sunday, June 6, in Devon, PA.

In preparation for this year’s event, the Devon Horse Show has completely replaced the footing in the Dixon Oval, using all-weather footing designed to meet the needs of all breeds and disciplines. Kim Cowart will be the judge for the Saddlebred, Roadster, Friesian, Hackney Horse and Hackney/Harness pony Divisions.

In each of two three-gaited classes, $5,000 will be awarded, thanks to the generosity of Walter Mooney. The winners of the Three-Gaited Amateur and Three-Gaited Stakes will each win $1,400, and all competitors placing first through eighth will receive prize money, with eighth place receiving $300 in each of these classes.

The Five-Gaited Amateur Stake will offer prize money in the amount of $2,500, and the Five-Gaited Open Stake will offer $3,000. There are no entry fees for any of the stake or championship classes.

Photo Courtesy CRAA Spring Derby Premiere Sport Horse Show

Opportunies Abound for Arabians, Friesians, Dressage Horses, Hunters, and Jumpers at the CRAA Spring Derby Premiere Horse Show

The CRAA Spring Derby Premiere Sport Horse Show at the Three County Fairgrounds in Northhampton, MA, offers an array of opportunity like no other. Not only is it the International Friesian Show Horse Association (IFSHA) Region 1 Championship Horse Show, there are also regional and national qualifying events for the Arabian Horse Association, SHIH, SHUS, dressage and many over fences classes offered. In addition, a full day of open breed dressage and full day of hunter divisions, allows two ways for Arabians to qualify. The show also qualifies for double Horse of the Year points for Friesians and double points towards CRAA Year End Awards (nomination & fees are applicable). For the prize list, visit www.orgsites.com/ct/ctriverarabianassoc.com.

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Richard Spooner and Cristallo won the third and final leg of the Rolex/FEI World Cup Final

Photo by Shannon Brinkman

This Week in USEF International Disciplines

Eventing
Eventing competition took place on both coasts this weekend. On the East Coast the Fair Hill International CIC*/** got under way in Elkton, MD. Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda won top honors in the CIC**, Claire Kelley and Clifton Peekachu won the CIC*.

For full results please click here.

In Paso Robles, CA, the Twin Rivers Spring Three-Day Event and Horse Trials featured all levels of competition. Alexandra Slusher and Last Call easily took home the win in the CIC***, Mackenna Shea and Landioso won the CIC** and Kristi Walker and Myelusivedream were first in the CIC*.

For full results please click here.

This week in Lexington, KY, riders representing eight countries will compete in the prestigious Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Bridgestone. Don't miss a minute of the action, Universal Sports will be offering live coverage of the event, for complete viewing options and information please click here. The Kentucky Cup Test Events for Jumping and Dressage are also taking place meaning this weekend is a great preview of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

Handlers and Trainers Needed for the 2010 International Friesian Show Horse Association World & Grand National Championships

Are you an International Friesian Show Horse Association (IFSHA) Member in good standing? Are you available to catch handle or ride horses for the 2010 IFSHA World & Grand National Championships? IFSHA already has IFSHA members looking for professionals to show their horses in-hand, so we want to make sure that they know the resources that are available to them. The information that you provide will be available in the next issue of the IFSHA E-News.

2010 Kentucky International Equine Summit to be Broadcast Live Via H-Span

The 2010 Kentucky International Equine Summit is a biennial event on Monday and Tuesday, April 26 and 27, in Lexington, KY, sponsored by the University of Louisville Equine Industry Program in cooperation with the University of Kentucky Equine Initiative. The Summit will take place at the Lexington Downtown Hilton and will feature more than 70 speakers and panelists dealing with a range of future challenges facing segments of the international and domestic horse industry. This year the summit is entering a partnership with HorseTV to provide a live video feed of all subject tracks over the Internet.

Eastern Tent Caterpillar Numbers Up Again in Kentucky; Horse Breeders Should Protect Mares from Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome

Kentucky experts report that Eastern tent caterpillar numbers are up for the third consecutive year, although populations vary from location to location.

According to Lee Townsend, University of Kentucky (UK) College of Agriculture entomologist, now is the time to check wild cherry and related trees for eastern tent caterpillar activity to determine whether management is necessary.

The Alltech Experience Pavilion to Educate and Entertain During the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games

Located in the heart of the Kentucky Horse Park, the four-acre Alltech Experience will welcome visitors in a variety of languages that will serve as a tribute to both the international nature of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games and the title sponsor’s global business in 120 countries.

2010 Games Launches Business Opportunities, Supplier Registration Web Page

The 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games launched a Business Opportunities webpage, which will house bidding opportunities for potential suppliers.

Current bidding opportunities will be posted on www.alltechfeigames.com/content.aspx?id=3936. This page will be updated on a regular basis to reflect new bid requests.

United States Olympic Committee Announces 2010 FLAME Program Taking Place July 24-27; FLAME Program Celebrates Its 17th Year; Applications Due May 21

The United States Olympic Committee (USOC) announced that the 17th annual FLAME (Finding Leaders Among Minorities Everywhere) program will be hosted at the Olympic Training Center (OTC) in Colorado Springs, CO, July 24-27, 2010. For the past 16 years, the USOC and its family of dedicated Olympic sponsors have inspired minority students with this dynamic, educational program packed with leadership enhancement opportunities.

John Deere Drive Green

The Drive Green tour events give USEF members and other interested consumers a chance to ask questions and get a "hands-on" experience with John Deere's utility tractors and many other products and attachments. In addition, the events feature a uniquely detailed semi-tractor and trailer that transport several of the company's utility tractors, as well as a refurbished "Chip Foose" 4020.

Upcoming Drive Green Dates and Locations

April 24 Snead Ag Supply, 1050 Chesnut Bypass, Centre, AL 35960; Jody Longshore - 205-625-1814
April 27 TriGreen Equipment, 2409 Pulaski Pike, Columbia, TN 38402; Jay Hamlett - 256-233-0339
April 29 University of Tennessee, Martin, McWherter Ag Pavilion, 111 Moody Street, Martin, TN 38238; Mitch Hobby- 731-345-6068
April 30 (10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.), AQHA, MTSU Miller Coliseum, 304-B W. Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro, TN 37129; Leman Wall (AQHA) or Richard Miller (Tri-Green) - 806-378-4333 (office) or 806-681-9761 (cell Leman)
May 1 Hutson, Inc. 250 Shelton Lane, Russellville, KY 42276; Stan Forman - 270-559-0002 or 270-247-4456

Save Up to $50 on Hertz Prestige Collection Weekly Rental

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Platinum Performance/USEF Talent Search
Qualified Riders

The Talent Search program is a very demanding show jumping competition, which attracts the nation’s top young riders in head-to-head competition. The qualifying period for the 2010 events began September 1, 2009.

Learn more about the program.

To see the list of all qualified riders, visit the 2009/2010 Ranking List.

East Coast Championship - Oct. 9-11
USET Foundation Headquarters, Gladstone, NJ

A few riders that have now qualifed on the East Coast:

— Erin Bruheim
— Elizabeth De Golian
— Beatrice Mack
— Katherine Schmidt

West Coast Championship - Sept. 23-25
LA Equestrian Center, Burbank, CA

A few riders that have now qualifed on the West Coast:

— Elizabeth Benson
— Leighona Bernstein
— Colleen Biemer
— Megan Bifano
— Victoria Birdsall
— Chasen Boggio
— Theodore Boris

Book Your Next Getaway Aboard Regent Seven Seas Cruise Lines

Enjoy Exclusive Offers and Amenities Available Only to USEF members

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Select Sailings Also Include:

Private, Onboard Cocktail Party
Onboard Host
$175 per person credit towards Custom Shore Excursion, OR
$175 per person credit towards Pre- or Post-Cruise Hotel Package

For more information, visit www.brownelltravel.com/usef.html.

Renew for 2010

The 2010 USEF Competition year has begun (as of December 1, 2009). Renew your membership now. It is so easy when you log into your MY USEF Account and click on "2010 USEF Membership Application" under 2010 Competition Year. For your convenience and the best membership deal, you can opt for a three-year membership for $150.

The annual USEF Competing Equestrian membership costs only $55. As a competing member, you are eligible to participate at all USEF Licensed Competitions, receive "equestrian" magazine at no additional charge, a million-dollar personal excess liability policy for horse-related accidents that cause bodily injury or property damage to third parties, and the added benefits of USEF MemberPerks—a members-only discount program with unbeatable deals from companies like John Deere, Hertz, Sherwin Williams, USRider, FarmVet, LifeLock, Moxie and others.

Not participating in USEF Licensed Competitions but still want to be a member? There are member categories for you. With the USEF Equestrian membership, at $35, you receive automatic insurance along with the MemberPerks. If you are a college student who is busy studying and not competing, you can join as a USEF Collegiate member for $25. This is another non-competing membership that will give you the benefits of MemberPerks plus four issues of "equestrian" magazine to keep you well informed of equestrian sports. And Club Equestrian, which is only $15, gives you access to the MemberPerks program.

USEF is pleased to announce that we can offer you the ability to pay for your membership renewal with a credit or debit card or by utilizing our newest electronic check payment method. We accept American Express, Visa, MasterCard and electronic check.

If you have questions, call the USEF Customer Care Center and a personal agent will assist you. You may call (859) 258-2472. Monday through Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm [ET]

The United States Equestrian Federation®, Inc. (USEF), as the National Equestrian Federation of the U.S., is the regulatory body for the Olympic and World Championship sports of dressage, driving, endurance, eventing, reining, show jumping, and vaulting, as well as 20 other breeds and disciplines of equestrian competition. As the country's largest multi-breed organization, the Federation recognizes more than 2,800 competitions nationwide each year. It governs all aspects of competition, including educating and licensing all judges, stewards and technical delegates who officiate at these shows.

VISION STATEMENT

The vision of the United States Equestrian Federation® is to provide leadership for equestrian sport in the United States of America by promoting the pursuit of excellence from the grassroots to the Olympic Games, based on a foundation of fair, safe competition and the welfare of its human and equine athletes.

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