Coming your way this morning is the latest episode of The Go Eventing Podcast, featuring co-host Sinead Maynard. In this episode, we discuss the action at Defender Kentucky, do a quick preview of MARS Badminton, and dive into some of the controversy surrounding some sanctions given out at Kentucky and what, exactly, the role of the media is in these scenarios. It’s a don’t-miss episode, and you’ll be able to listen here or wherever you get your podcasts.
U.S. Events Opening Today
Fox River Valley Pony Club H.T. (IL); Midsouth Pony Club H.T. (KY); Stable View Summer H.T. (SC); Round Top H.T. (CO); Loudoun Hunt Pony Club Summer H.T. (VA); Bucks County Horse Park H.T. (PA); Valinor Farm H.T. (MA)
U.S. Events Closing Today
Virginia Horse Center Eventing (VA); Spring Coconino Horse Trials (AZ); Woodside Spring H.T. (CA); Willow Draw Charity Show (TX); Flora Lea Spring H.T. (NJ)
News & Reading
Thinking about shopping for your next eventing partner? The latest episode of the USEA Podcast dives into the sometimes overwhelming world of pre-purchase exams (PPEs). Host Nicole Brown chats with equine vet and USEA Board of Governors member Dr. Angie Yates, DVM, about what to consider, common add-ons, and how to navigate the process with confidence. Listen in here.
In this week’s Ask Stable Sage advice column on The Chronicle of the Horse, an eventer grapples with the heartbreak of parting ways with a beloved but ditch-averse mare. After years of trying everything—including consulting five-star riders and an animal communicator—she’s left wondering if it’s selfish to find a new match who shares her passion for cross country. The Stable Sage offers equal parts empathy and tough love in a must-read response about safety, letting go, and honoring the journey, and you can read it here.
A handful of high-profile withdrawals have shaken up the MARS Badminton Horse Trials lineup just days before the event begins. U.S. rider Jennie Brannigan has withdrawn FE Lifestyle due to a minor incident on arrival in England, saying, “Foxy will always come first.” Austrian rider Lea Siegl also announced her withdrawal, citing a small injury to DSP Fighting Line, while New Zealand’s Samantha Lissington has pulled Ricker Ridge Sooty GNZ following his final gallop—though she’ll still make her debut with Lord Seekonig. Several wait list combinations have now been accepted, including Britain’s Tom Bird and Fiona Kashel, Brazil’s Rafael Losano, and France’s Arthur Marx. Read the latest here.
This example on Practical Horseman offers a great case study in the biomechanics of effective riding. In this detailed instructional breakdown, readers can follow along as one rider works on deepening her seat, improving balance, and refining her posture through simple but powerful exercises—like using a scarf to adjust pelvic alignment and “playing piano” with her toes to release hip tension. If you’re looking to ride with more harmony, suppleness, and connection, this article is full of practical tools to help you get there.
Sponsor Corner: Kentucky Performance Products
Did you know your horse can lose up to 13 gallons of fluid during intense work? Electrolyte balance is essential for hydration, muscle function, and overall health—especially when sweating kicks into high gear. While regular feed and forage provide some minerals, most horses need more, particularly sodium, to trigger the thirst response and encourage drinking.
That’s where Summer Games® Electrolyte from Kentucky Performance Products comes in. Formulated to replenish critical electrolytes in the right ratios, this supplement helps support proper hydration, recovery, and performance—especially during warm weather or heavy training. Don’t just lead your horse to water—help them want to drink it. Learn more from KPP on this topic and others here.
Video Break
An intense final day at Kentucky through the eyes of #supergroom Stephanie Simpson:
