Caroline Moran is a longtime supporter of eventing in the U.S. and is a co-owner of Possante, a top mount of U.S. Eventing Team member Phillip Dutton. She shared her insights into the rewards of horse ownership and what makes CHIO Aachen the ultimate experience.

1. How did you become involved with Event horse ownership?

My dear friend, Bruce Duchossois, who was an owner for Phillip Dutton for many years, introduced me to the sport of Eventing about 18 years ago. He was so enthusiastic and excited about Eventing, the people involved in the sport, and the amazing places that it had taken him. After I purchased a share of a horse with Bruce for Phillip, I was hooked, and the rest is history. Now I am a full-fledged Eventing cheerleader. I am also involved in a few partnerships with close friends and it's such a fun way to share the experience. 

2. What was your reaction to hearing your horse had been named to the 2025 CHIO Aachen Squad?

CHIO Aachen is the ultimate equestrian event for all disciplines. To have a horse chosen for the team at that particular competition is always a goal. There is nothing more exciting than to be part of a team, particularly an A Team like we had this year in Aachen. 

3. Tell us about your experience making the journey to Germany.

Team Dutton (Phillip, Evie, Owners and Grooms and of course, Dr. Kevin Keane) have the best time traveling together. We are like a big family. I help organize a lot of the travel plans and reservations, although sometimes I surprise myself when visiting a new location for the first time and we have to pivot because I totally messed up! No matter where we land, we always manage to have a great time together. This was our second time traveling to Aachen, so we had a smooth trip and a fantastic time.

4. Out of the competitions you have traveled to so far, what makes CHIO Aachen special?

Not only is CHIO Aachen an event where you are surrounded by the best of the best in multiple equestrian disciplines, the atmosphere is beyond compare. The venue is thoughtfully planned out so that the crowds never interfere with the horses, the trade fair has incredible shopping, and the VIP experience is exceptional. What really impresses me is how knowledgeable the spectators are. During the dressage, there is a way for the spectators to judge the class through the CHIO Aachen App. It is impressive how close they get to the judges’ scores. 

5. Can you share what the owner experience is like for CHIO Aachen?

Being an owner at any international competition is a thrill, but CHIO Aachen is the ultimate. To get the full experience, it's best to go for the entire week so you can enjoy the opening ceremonies and watch the many disciplines competing. The event management goes out of their way to make everything about the event exciting; from the opening ceremonies to the prize giving, trade fair and VIP, it is the best event in the world in my humble opinion. The VIP is expensive, but well worth the money! From gourmet cuisine and fine chocolate to champagne bars and large screens for viewing, it is an experience all in itself.