Over the last five decades, Horse Illustrated has evolved with the times, adapting to the digital era with digital issues of the magazine, e-books, its Barn Banter podcast, a monthly webinar series, and an active social media presence. While expanding into these digital spaces, Horse Illustrated has stayed true to its roots, proudly producing a bimonthly print magazine in an era when so many magazines have disappeared or gone all-digital.

“We care deeply about each and every subscriber’s experience, and strive to put out an engaging magazine for horse lovers that is also beautiful to look at,” said Editor in Chief Holly Caccamise. “We listen to reader feedback and favorite topics in order to keep the publication educational and entertaining – something we’d want to read ourselves!”

Horse Illustrated continues to delight readers with expert horse care and health advice, training tips, breed profiles, and stories of fellow equestrians. Along the way, the magazine has earned respect and accolades throughout the equine publication industry, including various honors at the annual American Horse Publications conference. Among those awards include a 1st place in the General Excellence category in 2018 and 2025, as well as recognition in the same category in 2015 and 2021.

To mark this milestone, Horse Illustrated has launched a fresh new look to its website, horseillustrated.com, with a design reflecting the publication’s 50th year. There, readers can enjoy the equine-centric content the magazine is known for.

In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Horse Illustrated will be releasing a special issue as a collector’s edition, with a limited quantity available (newsstand and online orders only). A walk down memory lane, the issue will feature the magazine’s iconic moments in print—including Horse Illustrated’s hallmark breed profiles, legendary covers, and more. Pre-order sales of the special issue will be announced soon, and the magazine will first be available in person at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event.

A limited number of advertising opportunities are available; interested parties can contact Rima Dorsey at rdorsey@egmediamags.com.

About Our Publications

Horse Illustrated, Young Rider, Western Life Today, HorseIllustrated.com, YoungRider.com, and WesternLifeToday.com are part of the EG Media stable. Horse Illustrated is the magazine for people who are passionate about horses. Each issue offers advice on horse health and care, plus user-friendly training tips for both English and western riders and engaging lifestyle features for horse lovers. Young Rider educates horse-loving kids ages 8-15 with a combination of English and western riding lessons, horse-care hints, and stories about real-life young riders, plus fun, interactive elements. Western Life Today is the premier publication for all things western, from fashion and entertainment to destinations and more. Visit www.horseillustrated.com, www.youngrider.com, and www.westernlifetoday.com to learn more. Contact us at 844-330-6373 or horseillustrated@egmediamags.com.

The post Horse Illustrated Celebrates Its 50th Anniversary appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

This spring, however, a different kind of boots and saddles will move into “Cowtown” when the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final and Zen Elite FEI Dressage World Cup Final come to the Dickies Arena, April 8-12, 2026. It all started when the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI, the international governing body for equestrian sport) accepted Fort Worth’s bid to host this year’s Finals back in 2022.  

A front view of Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, where the 2026 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final and Zen Elite FEI Dressage World Cup Final will be held. Photo courtesy of Visit Fort Worth

The Split Rock Jumping Tour (SRJT, based out of Lexington, Ky.) will host this prestigious international competition in partnership with the City of Fort Worth and the Fort Worth Sports Commission. SRJT Founder and President Derek Braun shared his thoughts on bringing the Finals to Texas, “This is a testament to what the Split Rock team and the City of Fort Worth have accomplished over the last several years. I am truly honored to bring a welcoming, world-class experience. There is no better way to showcase the best in show jumping and dressage and celebrate the sport as a whole.” 

Braun and World Cup Finals Event Director Sami McDermott promise not only exciting international sport, but also educational events, daily entertainment with a decidedly Texas flair, an impressive laser light show, and lots of dining, shopping and tourism options. 

Find more information and tickets here.

Competition Synopsis of the FEI World Cup Finals

Created to cap the fall and winter season of international competition, the World Cup Jumping Final was first held in 1979 and the Dressage Final in 1986. While riders are listed by the country they represent, the World Cup Finals are not team competitions. Horse and rider combinations compete in designated qualifier competitions throughout the year in order to earn a berth in the Final.  

Dressage horse and rider combos compete in two classes, the first day in an FEI Grand Prix test, followed by a rest day, then on day three in an FEI Grand Prix Freestyle class. World Cup Final jumping competition comprises three days of classes with a rest day in between the second and third competition days. They jump two rounds on the final day. All horses in both sports are inspected by the ground jury for fitness to compete before official training and arena familiarization the next day, then competition starts the day after that.  

This is the first time that the FEI World Cup Finals will be held in Texas. The USA has previously hosted the FEI World Cup Jumping Final 11 times (Baltimore, 1980; Tampa, 1989; Del Mar, Calif., 1992; Las Vegas, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2015, and Omaha, 2017 and 2023), and the FEI Dressage Final seven times (Los Angeles, 1995; Las Vegas, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2015, and Omaha, 2017 and 2023).  

Find the 2026 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final and 2026 Zen Elite FEI Dressage World Cup Final schedule here. 

Past World Cup Winners

The reigning World Cup Dressage Final top three from last year’s event in Basel, Switzerland, are Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale of Great Britain, first; Isabell Werth and DSP Quantaz of Germany, second; and Isabel Freese and Total Hope OLD of Norway, third. In the 2025 Longines World Cup Jumping Final the top three were Julien Epaillard and Donatello d’Auge of France, first; Ben Maher and Point Break of Great Britain, second; and Kevin Staut and Visconti du Telman of France, third.  

Great Britain’s Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale were the 2025 World Cup Dressage Final winners in Basel, Switzerland. Photo by Kim MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Best World Cup Dressage Final placings for U.S. riders include Steffen Peters and the outstanding gelding Ravel, winners in the 2009 Final in Las Vegas; Debbie McDonald and the super mare Brentina, victors in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 2003 (they also placed third in 2005); and two second-place finishes in 2017 and 2018 by Laura Graves with her former world-number one partner Verdades. Guenter Seidel riding Nikolaus placed third in 2003 and Peters took third on Floriano in 2007 in Las Vegas.  

In World Cup Jumping Finals, the USA has accrued a long list of accomplishments, headlined most recently by Beezie Madden’s win on the athletic stallion Breitling LS in 2018; McLain Ward’s win on the impressive mare HH Azur in Omaha in 2017; Devin Ryan’s second with Eddie Blue in 2018; and Hunter Holloway’s third-place finish in 2023 with Pepita con Spita. Madden also won with Simon in 2013. The uber-talented, U.S.-based stallion Flexible flew to victory in 2012 after taking second in 2008. Further back in World Cup Final history, U.S. jumper riders Katherine Burdsall, Leslie Burr Leneghan, Donald Cheska, Norman Dello Joio, Conrad Homfeld, Lisa Jacquin, Michael Matz, Katie Monahan, and Melanie Smith all had top-three finishes, several of those first-place titles.  

U.S. rider Hunter Holloway and Pepita Con Spita jumped their way to third place in the 2023 FEI World Cup Jumping Final in Omaha. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

The Venue

Dickies Arena will host the competition, entertainment, educational programs and a shopping village. The horses will be stabled in barns located on the adjacent Will Rogers Memorial Center Campus. Due to FEI rules and United States Department of Agriculture quarantine regulations, stabling will be secure and the general public will not have access. A warm-up ring will be constructed next to Dickies Arena.  

The Arena, which is owned by the city, is a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose facility with a capacity of up to 14,000 seats. Opened on Oct. 26, 2019, it is ranked as Billboard’s number one in the world in that size class. The arena’s namesake is the Texas-based clothing company Dickies. 

The neighboring 120-acre Will Rogers Campus is a major hub for equestrian and livestock shows. It is named for the famous cowboy actor and humorist Will Rogers, who was of Native American descent. A botanical garden, a number of art and history museums, and a planetarium, are also located on or near the campus.  

Venue Info

Dickies Arena
1911 Montgomery Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76107  

There is a fee for parking. Directions and parking information can be found here.

Visit Fort Worth

Come for the World Cup Finals, but stay to tour Fort Worth too! There are intriguing and entertaining options for everyone in your family or friends group. Find information at the city’s tourism website, and a video listing top ten things to do in Fort Worth here. Find information about parking here.

Texans will proudly tell you the state is the second biggest in the USA after Alaska. Fort Worth is the fourth largest city in Texas behind Houston, San Antonio and Dallas. It is a city of contrasts, rich history and diverse cultural communities, each with their own heritage, art, music and culinary delights. Established in 1849 as a U.S. Army outpost along the Trinity River, there were several ebbs and flows in population over time, but today the city has over one million residents. When combined with neighboring Dallas, the Metroplex is the fourth most populous in the USA and the largest in Texas.

Fort Worth was a stop on the historic Chisholm Trail, a cattle drive and wagon route from south Texas up to Kansas where the cattle were sold and loaded onto rail cars to ship east. Eventually many meat packing companies established facilities in Fort Worth. With ranching, cattle drives and meat packing being big business there, the city earned its “Cowtown” moniker. The first commercial oil well in the Permian Basin was drilled in 1921. Although the Basin is four hours to the west, the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area is home to over 600 oil and gas company offices.  

Shopping opportunities in Fort Worth run the gamut from cowboy hats and boots to high-end luxury brands to art and antiques to treasure hunting in some really unique thrift stores. Dining options are equally diverse, ranging from premium steaks and Texas barbeque to Mexican and Tex-Mex to many other cultural cuisines from around the world.  

Dickies Arena and the Will Rogers Campus are located in the city’s Cultural District, which is home to a number of impressive art and history museums, a botanical garden and a planetarium, as well as Casa Mañana Theater. Many of the art museums offer free admission to their regular exhibits. The Fort Worth Historic Stockyards, the Fort Worth Water Gardens and the Fort Worth Zoo are all a 10-20 minute drive away from the Cultural District. Find details here. 

World Cup attendees should not miss the chance to immerse themselves in Western history in the Stockyards District, where the Fort Worth Herd conducts twice-daily cattle drives free for public viewing. Also in the Stockyards are the John Wayne Experience and the Historic Stockyards Museum. Stroll Mule Alley, where you’ll find shops and restaurants occupying what was once a large mule barn and is now home to the American Paint Horse Association headquarters, with its famed Paint Horse statues on display. Follow history markers on a walking tour around the area. In the evening visit one of the Stockyard’s many saloons or the world’s biggest honky-tonk, Billy Bob’s Texas. Find more information here.  

Fort Worth Herd features twice-daily live cattle drives in the Historic Stockyards District. Admission is free. Photo courtesy of Visit Fort Worth

One of the most impressive sites in the Fort Worth is the stunning Water Gardens located near the Fort Worth Convention Center downtown. Also in the downtown/Sundance Square area are many shops, restaurants, theaters, the Sid Richardson Western Art Museum (free admission), and the Bass Performance Hall. Sundance Square is a walkable, 37-square-block area with many fountains, outdoor gathering areas, murals and art galleries. There is a free downtown circulator bus and a bike share program to help visitors explore downtown. Discover more about the area here.

This is just scratching the surface of things to do and see in Fort Worth. Among other things, visitors can tour one of only two U.S. Government Bureau of Engraving and Printing currency production sites in the country where paper money is printed. The Fort Worth Zoo has over 500 species of animals, including over 60 endangered species, and a water park.  

If sports beyond equestrian are of interest, Fort Worth has a number of golf courses as well as the Texas Motor Speedway, where on April 11 you can try your hand at driving on the track in the NASCAR Racing Experience. A short drive away in Arlington, the Texas Rangers Major League Baseball team will play home games on April 7 and 8. If you stick around a few more days, Lone Star Park begins its Thoroughbred racing meet on April 16 in nearby Grand Prairie.

Fort Worth Travel Tips

Closest Airport 

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (airport code DFW) is an easy drive to and from Dickies Arena, although depending on the time of day, allow around 35-50 minutes to make the trip.  

DFW is a large international airport offering many amenities and multiple flights landing daily from around the world. The airport ranked third in global traffic volume in 2024 behind Atlanta, Ga. (USA), and Dubai. They have a tram (Skylink) that takes passengers from terminal to terminal. There are both public and private transportation options from DFW to Fort Worth and Dickies Arena.  

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
2400 Aviation Drive
DFW Airport, Texas 75261 USA 

On the DFW website, you can find links to an airport map, driving directions, and information on public (train/tram/bus from DFW to Fort Worth) and private transportation (taxis, rental cars, for-hire airport shuttle services that will take you to Fort Worth). Ride share companies Uber and Lyft operate in the area as well.  

Another useful transportation planning tool is Rome2Rio, which provides options and price estimates. Find more info here.

Housing Options

Official World Cup partner hotels are offering discounted rates. Find out more here.

If these hotels are full, there are many other hotels and rental properties to choose from in Fort Worth. Search hotel or rental property booking sites and use these key words for housing close to the World Cup venue: Dickies Arena; Fort Worth Cultural District; Will Rogers Memorial Center; Texas Christian University (TCU); Fort Worth Medical Center.  

(Note that the Fort Worth Historic Stockyards are a bit farther away, although still within seven miles of Dickies Arena. As with any big city, keep rush hour traffic in mind when planning travel times to the venue.) 

Weather

Spring is a great time to visit Fort Worth; it is before the heat of summer yet warmer than much of Europe and North America during that time. Average daytime high temperature in April in Fort Worth is about 75°Fahrenheit (23.9 C). Average nighttime low temperature in April in Fort Worth is about 56.7°F (13.7°C). On average it rains about 13 days out of 30 in April in Fort Worth—though spring thunderstorms in North Texas can be severe. There will be about 12.5 daylight hours in Fort Worth during the World Cup Finals and a UV index of around 3 is common (moderate risk).  

Don’t Miss the FEI World Cup Finals in Fort Worth!

The 2026 FEI World Cup Jumping and Dressage Finals in Fort Worth are a chance to see the best horses and riders in the world here on U.S. soil and get a sneak peek of the race toward the 2028 LA Olympic equestrian competition. Combine that with all there is to see and do in the fascinating and vibrant Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and it’s a vacation and a half with a bow on top!  

This article about the 2026 FEI World Cup Finals in Fort Worth are a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post A Preview of the 2026 FEI World Cup Finals in Fort Worth appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The Gaucho Derby—deemed the “greatest test of horsemanship on Earth”—challenges riders’ wilderness survival and navigational skills as they race through of a network of estancias in the wilds of Patagonia (not to mention the test of camping outside each night).   

And for those brave enough to attempt it, these races are life-changing.

How Jessie Dowling’s Derby Preparation Began

In 2022, 40-year-old Jessie Dowling, an industrious cheesemaker and dairy farmer in Whitefield, Maine, was listening to a podcast while milking sheep and goats—unaware that soon she would embark on her own life-changing adventure, competing in the 2023 Mongol Derby.  

As president of the Maine Cheese Guild and owner of Fuzzy Udder Creamery, Dowling’s schedule was grueling. The pandemic forced her to think about where her life was going as a farmer and her happiness. She began spending more time with her horses—riding, training, attending clinics—and listening to podcasts.  

“I had heard of the Mongol Derby but thought it was for professional riders—I’m a backyard rider” Dowling says. “But on Warwick Schiller’s podcast, Stevie Delahunt talked about signing up for her Mongol Derby boot camp in Oregon—and I decided to do it.”

Dowling applied for the Mongol Derby, trained with endurance riders in Maine, completed her first limited-distance ride in 2022, and interviewed for the Mongol Derby the following day. “I told them I completed my first distance ride, was signed up for the Mongol boot camp, and they said I was in.”  

“I had zero endurance riding experience,” Dowling says. “I arrive at boot camp in Oregon; Warwick Schiller is there training for the Gaucho Derby. I went from listening to his podcasts in my milking parlor to riding Arabians with him.”

Falling in love with Arabians in the process, Dowling immediately acquired an Arabian gelding, Jelly Bean, as her new Mongol Derby training partner. “He has taught me so much about staying present, reading a horse’s energy, and regulating my energy.” 

Jessie Dowling and Jelly Bean. Photo by Julie Maddock

Her year-long Derby preparation included running, yoga, completing farm chores wearing a hydration pack, using a balance board to strengthen muscles, and a three-day intensive riding clinic with Solange Ellis. “She totally changed how I ride with biomechanic adjustments—sitting a gallop and riding in stable positions for long periods.”

The Mongolian steppe is covered with little marmot holes. “I learned how to sit back as the horse falls into a marmot hole, picks themselves up, and keeps going,” Dowling says. She also learned to ride Western and fast over all terrain. “You’re galloping for miles at a time.”   

In addition to improving these various riding skills, Dowling took Mongolian language lessons and carefully planned her gear.

“You’re only allowed 11 pounds,” Dowling says. “I had a little saddle bag, a hydration pack, med kit, water purification tablets, snacks, two sets of clothes, rain gear, and comfortable hiking shoes.” She traveled to Mongolia and arrived at the starting line.  

The Adventure Begins

“On an average day, the topography changes a lot—mountains, lakes, rivers, rolling hills, grasslands,” Dowling says. “You pass freely roaming cows, sheep, goats, horses, a herd of camels.”  

Dowling gallops past a herd of sheep and goats. Photo courtesy The Equestrianists

Riding 12 hours a day works up an appetite. There’s no Panera along the route; Dowling quickly adapted to the local food provided by host families at the urtuu—the horse stations. “The diet is one of the hardest parts,” Dowling says. “They eat parts of the sheep that we don’t normally eat—intestines or sheep face.” She often snacked on traditional meat pies throughout the day.  

The race rules are strictly enforced, prioritizing the horses’ well-being and the riders’ safety. “Race hours start at 7 a.m. and end at 7 p.m. If you arrive at a horse station by 7 p.m., you give your horse back to the herder, enjoy some food, and sleep in a ger. But if it’s 5 p.m. and you realize you can’t make it to the next station by 7 p.m., you must find a random ger to stay in. But hospitality is huge in Mongolian culture—they usually invite you to stay and feed you if you show up at a ger.” 

Dowling and fellow riders enjoy dinner with a Mongolian family in a traditional ger. Photo courtesy The Equestrianists

On day five, Dowling came off her horse while attempting to put on a rain jacket. She was unable to get back on her flighty mount. “We were walking and walking; I couldn’t find a ger,” Dowling says. “I had to stop at 7 p.m. or else get penalized. So I watched the sunset with my horse; it was beautiful.” She messaged the vet who came to complete the required check on her horse, who she helped Dowling get water and find a ger to stay in that night. Per race rules, Dowling incurred a 2-hour penalty for receiving assistance.  

You Get the Derby You Need

A network of Mongolian herders provide hundreds of horses for the race. 

“You ride 29 different horses during the race,” Dowling says. “It’s a lottery which horse you get. Each horse goes 40 km (25 miles). At each horse station, a vet checks the horse’s heart rate. It must come down to 56 bpm within a half hour. They have the highest standards of ethical welfare for a horse. The vet checks the horse’s gut sounds and gait. A rider gets penalized if there’s any problem with the horse. You can’t override your horse. The race taught me how to rate a horse—a horse will help you know its fitness if you really listen to it.”  

At horse station 2, Dowling kisses her horse goodbye, returning him to his proud owner. Photo courtesy The Equestrianists

Horse’s temperaments are another challenge many riders face during the journey, but this was an area in which Dowling shined.

“Some had trouble with their horse being spicy, but my superpower is that I love every horse I come across” Dowling says. “So, I would just take a deep breath, tell them that I loved them, find the spot they liked to be scratched, and connect with them.”

Dowling lets her horse stop for a drink on day three. Photo courtesy The Equestrianists

As for expectations, be prepared to be humbled. 

“People say you don’t get the Derby you want—you get the Derby you need,” Dowling says. Although she never reached her breaking point, day eight came close. “It’s mostly geldings—just a handful of stallions. On day eight, I pulled a stallion. Never riding a stallion before, I was a bit nervous. I headed out with other riders, tried to keep up, but he kept going slower. It was like he had never cantered before. Then we were down to a slow trot. Then a walk. I’m now the last rider. And if you get too far behind, you’ll get kicked out of the race.

“So I arrive at the only town on the race, and after eating boiled mutton face for a week, I had hopes of joining other riders at a café for chips and a beer… no other riders were there. Then my stallion would not walk over the bridge leaving town. An interpreter nearby helped by leading me across the bridge like I was on a pony ride. And he takes a picture. It was so embarrassing.

“At the next station, my horse checks out fine. I check the hospitality ger—all the food is gone. I just burst into tears. I took a deep breath, headed out to the horse line, and I picked number five. The herder had been waiting for someone to pick his prized horse all day. And I end up getting on the fastest horse! And that boy and I went straight out, galloping across the desert steppe, passed other riders, arrived at the next station less than two hours later, and I was back in the race.”

 Talk about getting the Derby you need.

“That day was the worst and best part of the race,” Dowling says. “I was hungry, demoralized, tired—but never gave up.” 

Leaving station 28, Jessie gallops across the Mongolian steppe towards the finish line. Photo courtesy The Equestrianists

Forty-three riders started the race, only 25 finished, and Dowling placed 13th. She says the experience was life-changing. “I went from an intermediate rider to an advanced rider. Spending 12 hours a day in the saddle on difficult horses, I feel light years ahead in my riding,” Dowling says. “So I got home. The next week, our farm’s cheese wins Best in Show at the Maine Cheese Festival, but I felt hollow inside. I realized this wasn’t what I wanted to do anymore.” 

She promptly sold her business to pursue an equestrian career full-time—with zero regrets.

Dowling accepts ceremonial milk at the finish line. Photo courtesy The Equestrianists

Dowling celebrated by riding the Tevis Cup—a 100-mile, one-day race in California. She opened Iron Ledge Farm, offering lessons and endurance training. Dowling visited Argentina to start training for her next adventure—the Gaucho Derby, which runs from February 18 to 28, 2026. Because the Gaucho Derby involves camping along the route, Dowling is figuring out how to pack a tent, stove, camping gear, and riding essentials in a saddle bag weighing no more than 22 pounds. “The Mongol Derby is the longest race in the world, but the Gaucho Derby has been called the toughest.”  

 And if anyone is up for the challenge, it’s Jessie Dowling.

Learn more about Jessie Dowling and her equine adventures by visiting ironledgefarm.com and following her on Facebook.   

This article about Jessie Dowling’s Mongol Derby is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post How Jessie Dowling’s Mongol Derby Adventure Paved the Way to More appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Hagyard is dedicated to providing the highest level of care through its consistent development and adoption of advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities. This commitment is exemplified by pioneering imaging techniques like the full PET scan in partnership with Churchill Downs, offering a more efficient alternative to traditional methods for precise and timely diagnoses. Hagyard also accepts referrals from equine veterinarians nationwide, ensuring broad access to its innovative treatments for horses of all types.

CareCredit’s commitment to expanding access to care, through finance solutions that help clients manage the costs associated with advanced veterinary services, has directly contributed to improved client retention for Hagyard. Hagyard clients utilize the CareCredit health and wellness credit card for critical procedures like colic surgery and advanced imaging services, notably MRI, supporting horse owners in pursuing comprehensive care. This enhanced accessibility and broader range of options are particularly impactful in retaining clients during the transition from field care to in-clinic services for advanced diagnostics and emergency/critical care.

“Hagyard is incredibly proud of its 150-year history and dedication to innovation in the equine industry,” said Ken Ford, CEO, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. “Our commitment to pushing the boundaries of veterinary medicine is deeply intertwined with the support of partners like CareCredit. Their financial solutions empower horse owners to access the cutting-edge treatments we offer, ensuring the best possible outcomes for their horses.”

Synchrony’s commitment to the equine industry extends beyond financing solutions, as it actively engages in research to inform horse owners about the true costs of care, highlighted in its Equine Lifetime of Care study. This research reveals that while many horse owners believe they are financially prepared, actual lifetime costs can significantly exceed expectations, particularly for unexpected veterinary needs such as colic or orthopedic injuries, which can range up to $10,000.

“At Synchrony, we are deeply committed to supporting innovation in the equine veterinary space,” said Boo Larsen, General Manager of Veterinary Industry, Synchrony. “Our partnership with Hagyard exemplifies this dedication, helping to enable horse owners to say ‘yes’ to innovative care. By providing flexible financing options, we empower veterinarians to deliver the highest quality of care and ensure horses receive the treatments they deserve.”

For more than 35 years, CareCredit has been a valuable financing option for all types of veterinary services, treatments, and diagnostics at locations in its network, giving animal caregivers peace of mind that they are ready to care for their animals throughout their lifetime. CareCredit is accepted at more than 27,000 veterinary practices and all public university veterinary schools in the U.S. For more information, please visit www.carecredit.com.

— Edited Press Release

The post Synchrony’s CareCredit Marks Nearly 20 Years with Hagyard Equine Medical Institute appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

“This virus can spread fast, it can be deadly, and the earliest signs are often so subtle they’re easy to miss,” Commissioner Miller, himself an avid horseman, said. “That’s why monitoring your horses right now is critical. The quicker we identify a potential case, the better chance we have to protect not only our animals, but the entire Texas equine community.”

A particularly aggressive strain of EHV-1 has been confirmed by veterinary clinics in Central Texas. While investigations are ongoing, the TDA believes the situation warrants immediate attention, given the rapid spread and severe outcomes in affected horses.

Those who should act immediately are those who:

• Have a horse that was present at the WPRA event in the Waco area or transported one to/from that event.
• Have a horse that has mingled with those transported from that event.
• Any horse owner or facility operator who has recently participated in large multi–barn gatherings, roping jackpots, or traveled extensively enough to include the Waco region.

Clinical signs of EHV-1 can vary widely, and may include:

• Fever
• Nasal discharge, coughing, or other respiratory changes
• Depression or lethargy.
• Neurological signs: stumbling or incoordination, loss of tail tone, hind-limb weakness, head tilt, recumbency.
• Abortions in pregnant mares.

The EHV-1 virus spreads quickly and efficiently, making early precautions essential. Horses can transmit the virus directly through simple nose-to-nose contact, and infected animals may also release contagious aerosolized particles when they cough or sneeze. Indirect transmission is equally dangerous, as shared tack, grooming tools, water and feed buckets, thermometers, and other equipment can all carry the virus from one horse to another. Even humans can unintentionally act as mechanical carriers, spreading the virus on their hands, clothing, or boots.

To protect your horses and the broader equine community, the TDA recommends the following immediate steps:

1. Isolate any horse that attended the Waco event for at least 14 days from other equines, or until cleared by a veterinarian.
2. Suspend hauling, showing, or mixing horses from the exposure group until further notice. Avoid taking exposed horses to other barns or events.
3. Disinfect trailers, wash-racks, cross-ties, tie-areas, tack rooms, buckets, grooming tools, and any shared equipment. Use an appropriate virucidal disinfectant.
4. Avoid sharing tack, halters, grooming equipment, buckets, water hoses, etc., between exposed and unexposed horses.
5. Monitor temperatures twice daily for all exposed horses and report any fever (≥101.5 °F) or other signs to a veterinarian immediately.
6. If any horse exhibits neurologic signs, coughing, or nasal discharge, isolate it immediately, wear protective gear, and call your veterinarian.
7. Keep accurate records: track which horses were present at events, their movement, and who handled them for contact tracing if needed.
8. Stay in contact with your local veterinarian and keep up to date on updates from state veterinary authorities.

“I’m asking every local horse rider, roper, trainer, and breeder to do their part today,” Commissioner Miller added. “Check your horses twice a day, isolate any exposed animals, tighten up your biosecurity, and call your vet the moment something looks off. If we work together and take this seriously, we can get ahead of this outbreak and keep our horses and our state’s $12.3 billion equine industry safe.”

What is Equine Herpes Virus?

The horse can be affected by many different strains of equine herpes virus (EHV), also known as rhinopneumonitis, but five strains are most prevalent: EHV-1, EHV-2, EHV-3, EHV-4, and EHV-5. Of these, EHV-1 and EHV-4 are associated with viral respiratory disease, with EHV-4 mostly affecting young horses younger than 3 years of age. EHV-1 is the most prevalent concern in horse populations of all ages, not only because its respiratory disease is more virulent than that of EHV-4, but also because it can cause viral abortion in pregnant mares or neurologic disease (equine herpes myeloencephalopathy or EHM). Mutation of the DNA in the herpes virus produces this extremely virulent neurological form, which damages blood vessels in the central nervous system. Subsequent damage to the spinal cord tissues and brain is accompanied by specific neurological signs.

How EHV-1 Works

Horses often contract the herpes virus at a young age but do not always develop apparent clinical signs at that time. Like herpes infections in humans, the virus often goes dormant but can resurface when the horse is stressed by training, transport, competition, herd dynamics, or other health conditions.

Re-activation of the latent virus results in active shedding of the virus in the horse’s nasal secretions. Even a healthy-looking horse can transmit the EHV-1 virus from his respiratory secretions. Horses with clinical signs shed viral particles profusely and should be isolated immediately.

Direct horse-to-horse contact facilitates exposure, but the virus can also be transmitted on peoples’ hands, clothing and shoes, as well as grooming equipment, tack, buckets, rakes, hoses and water tanks, to name a few. It is also possible for airborne particles expelled by coughing or sneezing to transfer to horses some distance away, although no one knows exactly how far.

— Edited Press Release | Source: Texas Department of Agriculture

The post EHV-1 Outbreak Reported in Texas appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Ben Ebeling and Bellana celebrate with a victory gallop. Photo by AveryWallace/US Equestrian

“Every time I ask this horse to come through for me, she is just so clutch. She’s just an incredible competitor and I’m so lucky to have her by my side and in that arena. We’ve been working together for a year now and we’re just continuing to build this synergetic and symbiotic bond,” said Ebeling. “I’m just so proud of her. As I’ve said, a rider is nothing without their horse, so really, thank you, Belle.”

“Our freestyle really highlights her personality as a diva mare and is a testament to strong powerful women. The freestyle includes sections of songs from artists like Rihanna, Beyonce, and Gwen Stefani, and honestly, I don’t think anyone can do it better than a mare and that’s been the inspiration behind this freestyle,” said Ebeling of his musical selection.

Of the evening and monumental achievement, Ebeling noted the format of the competition and the opportunity to highlight the Grand Prix Freestyle a positive push the sport needs to be able to connect with more people and attract a broader audience.

“I think it’s such a great way to capture the hearts and minds of a wider audience. It’s an amazing opportunity for our sport and to show that we can make it fun and entertaining, while highlighting the incredible attributes of our horses. Getting to have my name inked on this trophy with other greats, including two Olympians, it just motivates me more to keep going and keep pushing.”

Ben Ebeling and Bellana. Photo by AveryWallace/US Equestrian

With Drombusch OLD and her own 2011 Oldenburg gelding (Destano x DiMaggio), Felicitas Hendricks (GER) set the tone in the second half of the class, earning a 78.260% to put the pressure on both Ebeling and Marek to deliver. Hendricks, who earned her qualification during the Wellington season in her campaign last spring, competed in the desert for the first time and was thrilled with both her horse and the experience.

“I’ve been with this horse for a long, long time and he just never stops impressing me. I think today was one of the best feelings we’ve had together,” said Hendricks of her ride. “It’s special when you have been partners for as long as we have and you still feel like you’re continuing to grow and develop together – getting better with every ride. I’m so thankful for him and to be able to experience this together.”

Marek (Dunnellon, Fla.) and Fayvel, a 2010 KWPN gelding (Zizi Top x Houston) owned by Cynthia Davila, finished their week with a strong third-place finish in the final class of the week, capping an incredibly strong season for the pair, which included their overall series win, alongside their FEI Grand Prix CDI5* win on Friday evening.

“What’s really fun about showing this horse is that he’s uncomplicated to ride. He lets me really ride and not hold back. With Fayvel, I can really go for it and on a night like tonight, when the pressure is on, I know I’m going to fight for it and he’s going to be right there with me every step of the way and we don’t need to hold back,” explained Marek. “It’s been an amazing week here for us in California and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to compete here with him.”

A total of twelve combinations moved forward to contest the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI5* under the lights, with four different combinations earning personal bests, with competitors across the competition representing the U.S., Canada, and Germany.

View the full results here.

— Edited Press Release | Source: US Equestrian

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And they came because they love horses.

Equine Affaire November 2025 in West Springfield, Mass. Photo by Julie Maddock

Horses—and Donkeys—of All Kinds

Equine Affaire draws attendees and event participants from all over the United States, Canada, and beyond. And over 50 breeds of horses have participated in the various events at Equine Affaire, proudly represented by their national breed associations. The Breed Pavilion was buzzing as horse lovers got to meet and greet enchanting breeds, including the Arabian, Dales Pony, Icelandic, Gypsy Vanner, and many more.  

Misha Duvernoy and Finan—a Gypsy Vanner yearling she bred and owns—share a laugh in The Breed Pavilion. Photo by Julie Maddock

And this year introduced something special at Equine Affaire—the Donkey Extravaganza. You read that right: donkeys of exceptional cuteness were on hand for educational presentations. With those long ears and expressive eyes, they captivated young and old alike. Donkey lovers were delighted to shop from vendors catering to donkey-related products and services.  

Margaret Coulter, Director of Road To Independence, with miniature donkeys. Photo by Julie Maddock

Clinics, Seminars and Demonstrations

The educational opportunities are almost unlimited at Equine Affaire. With clinics, seminars and demonstrations running simultaneously all day in multiple arenas and stages, attendees strategically planned their schedule of events to attend. Clinics included show jumping foundations with Gaby Reutter, ranch riding with Cole Cameron, galloping techniques for eventing cross-county with Phyllis Dawson, classical dressage principles, trailer loading techniques, the basics of saddle fitting, caring for feathers, and even the chance to drive a Whispery Pines Percheron. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

On Thursday afternoon, Kimberly Chick—British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA)-certified helmet and safety vest fitter and owner of Fair Hill Saddlery—presented a clinic on selecting and fitting a safety vest. Safety vests and airbag vests are advanced gear designed to add an extra layer of protection.

“Every rider and handler of a horse is subject to injury—from the ground, mounted, loading, literally anything. And a safety vest protects our vital organs and bones,” Chick explained.

But choosing the right vest and having it professionally fitted is critical.

“There’s a big difference between a 65-year-old trail rider and a 30-year-old eventer,” Chick explains. The discipline and rider’s goals help Chick choose the right vest for a rider, ensuring it isn’t too high above the rib cage or sitting too low on the back.

Chick’s expert tips to selecting a vest: “Buy the highest level of BETA certification that fits you the best and that your budget allows. Your body is worth the investment.”

Kimberly Chick, a BETA-certified helmet and safety vest fitter, helps a rider properly fit a safety vest. Photo by Julie Maddock  

On Friday, Lori Tankel, author of Common Sense Horse Keeping, presented the clinic “Disaster Planning for Horse Owners: How to Be Prepared for the Unexpected.” Tankel stressed how crucial it is for horse owners and barn managers to take seriously disaster preparedness.

“It’s just as important to have a disaster plan as it is to have a fire plan… It will help you deal with disaster challenges in a calm and organized manner,” Tankel said. “Take ownership of your disaster plan—identify potential disasters, put it in writing, post it in the barn, provide a copy to boarders and staff, and then drill it often. Your goal is to ID your horse, load him, and evacuate as quickly as possible. Can you board your horse in any condition, at any time? His life may depend on it.” 

Lori Tankel, author and presenter, shared expert tips on how horse owners and barn managers can implement a disaster preparedness plan. Photo by Julie Maddock

On Saturday morning, Ken McNabb presented the clinic “Overcoming Trail Obstacles: Teaching Your Horse to Have Confidence on the Trail Course.” McNabb explained that “once your horse’s confidence is in you, he will do anything… the more difficult a situation, the quicker you build the relationship with your horse, teaching him to trust you in all situations. You can’t stop your horse from spooking, but you can shape how you will handle it.”

For example, overreacting to a horse that is spooking at a tarp by yelling, kicking, or otherwise trying to force him to go over it will only reinforce the “danger” of the tarp. “Take the fear out, relax, look at the tarp, release, look at it again, release; take the time needed to build the horse’s confidence,” McNabb shared. “My goal is not to desensitize my horse. I want my horse sensitive, but I want to build his emotional control, allowing him to discover he has more courage than fear.” 

Ken McNabb demonstrates how to build courage and confidence when confronting spooky obstacles. Photo by Barry Maddock

Equine Affaire’s Ride With a Pro program is a unique experience that allows riders and horses to take a lesson directly from nationally recognized professionals in various disciplines. Riders pushed down any lingering nerves and quickly realized this was their chance to soak up expert advice.  

Jane Karol’s clinic “Classical Dressage: Developing the Horse & Rider at Training and First Level” focused on building a language of trust with your horse, how tiny adjustments can make a big impact, and why going back to the basics of Training and First Level exercises shouldn’t be underestimated.

“Softer hands [are] fundamental in a smooth walk to canter transition,” Karol said. She stressed “teaching the horse that the leg doesn’t mean go faster, but to go in a more balanced way” and that the “seemingly simple exercise—trot, canter, trot, canter—is a fantastic exercise for riders at every level.”   

Classical Dressage, Ride With a Pro, presented by Jane Karol. Photo by Barry Maddock

Versatile Horse & Rider Competition   

One of the most popular events took place on Friday afternoon in the Coliseum—Equine Affaire’s Versatile Horse & Rider Competition—with Equine Affaire’s favorite emcee, Noah Rattner, and this year’s judge, Jason Irwin. Horse and rider teams were judged on how well they raced through an obstacle course which included pulling a sled, balancing on bridges, bubble wands, a bear, working a gate, a teeter-totter, jumps, and much more. The challenging course tested communication and horsemanship skills. With $5,500 in cash and other prizes on the line, the competition really heated up. 

Bubbles and a bear make for an interesting combination at an obstacle station during the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition. Photo by Julie Maddock

Adoption at Equine Affaire

 The ASPCA Right Horse Adoption Affaire, along with other equine adoption organizations, spent the event introducing people to healthy, desirable, and deserving horses and donkeys in hopes of finding new loving homes. At Equine Affaire in Ohio in April 2025, 30 horses were adopted. Unable to adopt in person at Equine Affaire? Visit myrighthorse.org to meet adoptable equines across the United States.  

A 16-year-old Arabian named Cinder (pictured with his handler from Susquehanna SPCA, Samantha Ceresna) was adopted during Equine Affaire Massachusetts 2025. Photo by Julie Maddock

Fantasia 

This unforgettable “musical celebration of the horse” combines inspiring music, outstanding choreography, talented equestrians, and exceptional horses that come together in an uplifting and memorable performance. Fantasia is the perfect way to end a day at Equine Affaire!    

The Vital Role of Equine Affaire Volunteers

Equine Affaire is a complicated affair with moving parts and people working tirelessly behind the scenes to make it a success—including the many volunteers who return year after year. Equine Affaire HR & Business Manager, Lori Helsel, is the guiding force behind engaging and managing the 75 volunteers needed throughout the four-day event, with each volunteer working multiple shifts a day. Volunteers with big smiles greet and hand out event programs at the entrance gates, assist clinic prop crews with setup during educational programs, help customers drop off items to be sold at the Marketplace Consignment, assist youth in the Equine Fundamentals Forum and popular “Stick Horse Rodeo,” coordinate crowd control during horse rotations in the Breed Pavilion, and work as ushers at Fantasia. 

“The assistance of volunteers in fulfilling these duties is invaluable,” Helsel explained. “One of the things I appreciate most is the passion and enthusiasm our volunteers display. It’s infectious and elevates the energy and enjoyment for attendees, exhibitors, and everyone they meet.”  

Some Equine Affaire volunteers have made it a family affair. Pam Heffernan and her daughter Tracy Bowman have been volunteering together for seventeen years. “I think my favorite thing is just being able to spend four days with my mom,” Bowman said. “I’m obsessed with horses so any reason to be around horses and horse people I’ll jump at. But more than anything, it’s the people. We work with them only for four days out of the year, but we’ve known them for so long that they become like family.”  

“It gives us something to look forward to every year,” Heffernan added. “I really enjoy working with kids in the youth pavilion, making the stick horses, and keeping the area organized.”   

Lori Helsel, Equine Affaire HR & Business Manager, and longtime volunteers Pam Heffernan and Tracy Bowman. Photo by Julie Maddock

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the horses we all love. Start planning now for the next Equine Affaire, happening in Columbus, Ohio April 9-12, 2026. Learn more here.

This article about Equine Affaire Massachusetts 2025 is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Felix Vogg (SUI) and Cartania, winners of 2025 Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill CCI5*-L division. Photo by Allen MacMillan

Monica Spencer (NZL), riding her own 14-year-old Thoroughbred Artist (Guillotine – Volksraad), was second and the USA’s Boyd Martin and Yankee Creek Ranch’s 12-year-old Holsteiner gelding Commando 3 (Connor 48 – Amigo xx) took third. Caroline Pamukcu riding HSH Blake and Jennie Brannigan on FE Lifestyle, both from the USA, were fourth and fifth, respectively. For a complete set of the results from the 2025 Mars Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill, visit here.

Monica Spencer (NZL) and Artist, second place in the 2025 Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill CCI5*-L division. Photo by Allen MacMillan

It was Vogg’s first time competing at the Maryland 5 Star and his second 5* win (he also won in Luhmühlen in 2022 aboard Colero). He is the first Swiss event rider to win twice at the level, the first Swiss competitor to win the Maryland 5 Star, and is only the second Swiss rider ever to win a 5* (Hans Schwarzenbach won Badminton in 1951 which was the top FEI level, but at the time was called a 4*). He joins these past Maryland 5 Star winners on the prestigious list: Boyd Martin (USA) with On Cue, 2021; Tim Price (NZL) and Coup de Coeur Dudevin, 2022; Austin O’Conner (IRE) on Colorado Blue, 2023, and Oliver Townend (GBR) aboard Ballaghmor Class, 2024.  

Vogg and Cartania were in the hunt to win the CCI5*-L division from their first pass down center line in the dressage arena on Friday. They laid down a beautiful test, scoring 28.3 which put them in third after dressage behind Spencer and Artist (23.7) and Pamukcu on HSH Blake (28.2).  

Then, on Saturday, Vogg and Cartania were one of only four pairs to complete new designer Pierre Le Goupil’s (FRA) cross-country course, jumping both clear and within the time. The other three horses achieving a double-clear run were Thoroughbreds (Spencer’s Artist who ranked first after cross-country, Mia Farley’s (USA) Phelps who sat in third at the end of the day, and Sophia Hill’s (AUS) Humble Glory who finished the cross-country in seventh position). Of the 22 starters from six countries (Australia, Canada, Great Britain, New Zealand, Switzerland, USA), 13 completed cross-country for a finish rate of 59.09% over Le Goupil’s course.

After all 13 of the 5* horses presented passed the final horse inspection Sunday morning, it was on to the show jumping phase. The competitors returned mostly in reverse order of finish from cross-country, with Pamucku jumping her horses out of order since she had two competing (HSH Tolan King in addition to Blake). Entering the arena next to last, Vogg and Cartania did what they had to do, jump clear with only 0.4 time penalties over Michel Vaillancourt’s stadium course.

When overnight leaders Spencer and Artist dropped two rails, the victory was Vogg’s. Martin and Commando 3 also left the rails up and confidently sailed around the course for double-clear to move up from fifth after cross-country to take third. Pamukcu and Blake did the same, advancing from sixth to fourth.

Vogg was able to make the trip to the Maryland 5 Star with support from a Maryland 5 Star International Riders Travel Grant. The Grant program assists elite riders from around the globe to travel to Maryland to compete.

“Many people invite me [to the U.S.] but costs are quite high. To be honest, without that grant, I wouldn’t be sitting here,” Vogg said. “I am very thankful that people donated so that we can all come over.” 

Quietly smiling after the win, he admitted that he had a bet with his groom that involved her cutting his hair if he won and him cutting her hair if he didn’t. He was understandably elated on the victory, “It is unbelievable; the horse was unbelievable. Of course, I wanted to win all week, many people wanted that. She was all week mentally so strong.”   

One Degree of Separation from Boyd Martin

Sitting in the final 5* press conference, Martin shared that he, Vogg and Spencer had a connection to the area around Fair Hill. Martin’s farm is only half an hour from the showgrounds.  

“Felix was sort of living with us in America for about a year. He’s a top fella,” said Martin. “Me and Monica are a great mates; she’s my next-door neighbor. So, I love to win, but it’s not so bad being third to these two champion riders, who are both fantastic people. I feel honored to be here with them. They’re well deserved to come first and second. My horse Commando, he’s just a champion.” 

Boyd Martin (USA) and Commando 3, third place in the 2025 Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill CCI5*-L division. Photo by Allen MacMillan

Immediately after the press conference, Vogg hopped on a plane to travel to Pratoni, Italy, (the site of the 2022 FEI World Championships) to compete five horses in a horse trials there. And, Cartania was headed home for some well-deserved rest.  

Spencer has been based in the USA for a little less than two years. All week she had shown emotion about the connection with her long-time equine partner Artist, a.k.a. “Max,” “I’ve had him since he was four and he’s just been a great horse for me. He has taken me all over the world. We come to these big events and I’m just thankful to be here. He just tries so hard.” 

Her plans for after the Maryland 5 Star included a much-deserved vacation for Max and a trip for her and her husband Andrew and son Gus to go on a vacation back to New Zealand for three weeks to visit family and friends. She hasn’t been home since moving to the USA in February 2024.  

Martin jumped on a jet right after the Maryland 5 Star as well, flying to France to compete in the Pau 5* where he will compete Cooley Nutcracker, one of fellow eventer Liz Halliday’s mounts that Martin took on during her rehabilitation from a traumatic brain injury.  

Elsewhere at the Maryland 5 Star

Maryland native Isabelle Bosley, riding Karen Martin’s 8-year-old gelding Oldenburg gelding Conner (Consiro 3 – Concetto), led the CCI3* division from start to finish, winning on a score of 24.8. From Monkton, Md., Bosley comes from an equestrian family with her parents training racehorses. She has also competed in timber racing.

Isabelle Bosley (USA) and Conner, winners of the 2025 Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill CCI3* division. Photo by Kim MacMillan

“I couldn’t be happier,” she said, “It means so much to have my family and friends here supporting me this weekend. Conner was incredible; he’s such a good boy. He’s definitely not for sale.”  

Second in the 3* was Alyssa Phillips, who also maintained that spot throughout the weekend, on her 10-year-old Holsteiner gelding Rockett 19. And, third from wire to wire was Olivia Dutton riding Jewelent, a 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse her father competed before her.  

Alyssa Phillips (USA) and Rockett 19, second in the 2025 Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill CCI3* division. Photo by Kim MacMillan

Olivia Dutton (USA) and Jewelent, third place in the 2025 Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill CCI3* division. Photo by Allen MacMillan

In the USEA Young Event Horse Championships, presented by Dubarry, the winner of the 5-Year-Old Class was Pine Top Penny Belline ridden by Kylie Cahoon. MBF Mirror Image ridden by Arielle Aharoni won the 4-Year-Old Young Event Horse Division.  

In the Maryland Corgi Cup, around 125 enthusiastic, short-legged dogs made a mad dash over several heats in the morning, then a whittled field raced a final time in the afternoon to determine the victor. First-time winner Cheese took home a trophy and gift basket from Corgi Cup producers Major League Eventing. 

Corgis race off the line during the finals of the 2025 Maryland Corgi Cup where “Cheese” was the victor. Photo by Allen MacMillan

The long weekend was full of other family fun, including a Kid’s Corner area with games, crafts, a petting zoo, and a Hall of Champions tent which housed successful event horses such as Jennie Brannigan’s Cambalda, two of Boyd Martin’s Olympic horses Otis Barbotiere and Black Foot Mystery, and Erin Sylvester’s Paddy the Caddy. During the lunch break on Saturday, Shetland Pony races delighted spectators too. Also on Saturday the Maryland 5 Star hosted a beer, wine and spirits festival, and on Sunday a local food vendors showcase. Throughout, there was a nice variety of shopping and dining choices, as well as live music performances. The Real Rider Cup, a Thoroughbred retraining fundraiser, a dog adoption event, and the Mars Pet Experience chalet were also part of the fun.  

For more news and the dates of the 2026 Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill event, visit the Maryland 5 Star website. 

To watch replays of the action at the 2025 Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill, go to FEI TV via ClipMyHorse (subscription required). 

This article about the 2025 Maryland 5 Star is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Vogg Is Victorious at 2025 Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill  appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Boyd Martin and Miks Master C become the first-ever winners of the US Equestrian Open Eventing Final CCI4*-L. Photo courtesy Avery Wallace/US Equestrian

“It’s an incredible feeling to win here,” said Martin. “This event has been so well organized, and Morven Park is one of the best venues in the world. For years, we’ve all seen the potential here. Morven Park has beautiful cross-country tracks, great rings, and a world-class facility. The US Equestrian Open has brought in amazing prize money and attracted the country’s best horses and riders and to win this inaugural event is a huge honor.”

Martin (Cochranville, Pa.) and the Miks Master C, a 2012 U.S.-bred Swedish Warmblood gelding (Mighty Magic x Qui Luma CBF), owned by Ocala Horse Properties, LLC., Deborah Palmer, and Rachael Isaacson, and cared for by Stephanie Simpson, completed the weekend on a final  combined score of 28.7 after producing a clear round int the main arena secure their win and take home the lion’s share of the $200,000 prize pot. Both Martin and Miks Master C’s names will now be added to the perpetual US Equestrian Open trophy, marking their place in history as the US Equestrian Open Eventing Final’s first-ever champions. Additionally, Martin was also awarded the MARS American Bred Talent Trophy which was award to the top-finishing U.S.-bred horse in the competition in the CCI4*-L division.

Miks Master C is a newer mount for Martin, having previously been campaigned by fellow U.S. Eventing Team athlete Liz Halliday before joining Martin’s program just over a year ago. The partnership has now found its rhythm at the top levels of the sport, with Martin noting this victory holds special significance for him, personally, his team, and the supportive team behind Miks Master C. Martin reflected on the journey of taking over the ride following Halliday’s accident in 2024, and the growing partnership he’s developed with the talented gelding.

“I’m so grateful to the owners for trusting me with one of Liz’s top horses. Miks Master C is a legend. He was Liz’s top hopeful, and this whole year we’ve just been getting to know each other. He’s an incredible horse with the right mix of power, grit, and heart.”

Martin shared that though he was still getting to know “Mikki” this year, he has always admired him. “When Liz first bought him, I was extremely jealous,” he said with a laugh. “Mikki is totally my type of horse. He has a lot of Thoroughbred in him. He’s one of those horses that moves like a Warmblood, but thinks like Thoroughbred – a true three-day eventer with an amazing gallop.”

After a thrilling cross-country phase yesterday, which featured a traditionally challenging and technical Derek di Grazia (USA)-designed track, Will Coleman (Ocala, Fla.) and his veteran partner Off The Record entered Sunday’s jumping phase as the overnight leaders on their impressive dressage score of 25.1 However, one rail at B of the triple combination ultimately opened the door for Martin and Miks Master C to move to the top of the leaderboard.

Coleman’s strategic and polished riding across all three phases secured both second and third place aboard Off The Record, a 2009 Irish Sport Horse gelding (VDL Arkansas x Drumagoland Bay), owned by Off The Record Syndicate, and cared for by Erin Jarboe, and  Very Dignified, a 2015 Irish Sport Horse mare (Dignified Van’t Zorgvliet x Kateys Gem), owned by Jerome Broussard, Elizabeth Lendrum, and Gloria Callen, also cared for by Jarboe, respectively. Coleman piloted both horses to just two of the three clear rounds yesterday around the CCI4*-L track, keeping both horses competitively inline on the leaderboard. Ultimately, Off The Record would finish on a final three-phase score of 29.1, while Very Dignified, earned a 35.4, in the pair’s CCI4*-L debut together.

For the Virginia-native Coleman, the introduction of the US Equestrian Open concept to the already historic importance of the Morven Park venue in the region’s deep traditional connection to horses and horse sport, allowed the competitive atmosphere to be elevated while also offering the opportunity to showcase the sport at its best.

“It’s an awesome cross-country course on one of the best eventing-specific venues in the U.S.,” said Coleman. “Anyone who is curious about eventing or wants to see what eventing all is about; they got such an awesome taste of that here at Morven Park this weekend.”

Both riders commended course designer Chris Barnard’s (USA) track on the final day for its technical demands and tight time allowed, which kept the pressure of the moment palpable to the very last ride of the class.

“The course was good and very technical,” Martin noted. “You had to ride it almost like a jump-off. It rewarded forward, efficient riding and showed how beneficial it is to practice pure show jumping on the side.”

When asked about the future of the US Equestrian Open Eventing  Final and Series, and what the athletes hope to see as it continues to evolve and grow, Coleman shared his optimistic outlook.

“This is just the beginning,” he said. “What US Equestrian has built with this series is something that’s going to continue to grow, build more momentum, attract bigger crowds, and more prize money, which is really exciting for us as athletes, for our owners, and for our teams.”

View full US Equestrian Open Eventing Final results here.

— Edited Press Release

The post Boyd Martin Makes History as First-Ever US Equestrian Open Eventing Final CCI4*-L Champion Aboard Miks Master C appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Kimberly, Idaho — For millions of people and families, breast cancer is a fight that touches every part of life. This October, Standlee Premium Western Forage^® is proud to launch its 5th annual breast cancer awareness initiative: Grab & Go^® to Give, a campaign rooted in community, hope, and action. For the first time ever, Standlee’s iconic green Grab & Go bales are turning pink. This is not just a color change, but a symbol of solidarity with those impacted by breast cancer.

At Standlee, supporting the fight against breast cancer is more than a tradition, it’s part of their identity. These pink bales symbolize hope, strength, and unity as we honor the people in our barns, homes, and communities who face this battle.

The pink bales, featuring limited-edition packaging, have been distributed to retailers across the country, spreading awareness from coast to coast. When you choose a pink Grab & Go bale, you’re not only fueling your animals with the same high-quality forage you’ve always trusted – you’re also fueling the fight against breast cancer.

“Supporting the fight against breast cancer has long been part of who we are at Standlee,” said Jessica Wright, VP of Marketing. “Each year, we are reminded that this battle affects the people standing right beside us, in our own barns, homes, and communities. These pink bales are a reminder that together, we can fight for a future without breast cancer.”

This year’s milestone marks five consecutive years of Standlee’s commitment to the cause. Previous campaigns have spotlighted personal stories of resilience and inspired the equine community nationwide to join in the fight against breast cancer.

Funds from this year’s campaign will support the following organizations:

• Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) – Funding innovative research to prevent and cure breast cancer worldwide.
• Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) – Providing education, resources, and a supportive community for people affected by breast cancer.
• Riding Beyond – Offering equine-assisted programs that promote healing and empowerment for women facing cancer.
• Rural Gone Urban Foundation – Providing judgment-free grants and financial support to women battling breast cancer, empowering them to make memories and invest in legacies for themselves and their families.
• Horses and Hope – Supporting medically underserved individuals, especially those in the Kentucky horse industry and beyond, through education, screening, and support to help with early detection and care.

Join the movement: every pink Grab & Go bale purchased helps support these organizations and the people they serve. Together, we can stand stronger in the fight to wrap up breast cancer, one bale at a time.

For more information about Standlee’s Grab & Go to Give campaign, visit www.standleeforage.com/promotions/grab-go-give/ or contact marketing@standlee.com.

For Standlee, the fight against breast cancer is deeply personal. Every pink bale they produce is a reminder that this battle affects the people standing right beside us, and that together, we can keep pushing toward a future without breast cancer.

About Standlee

Standlee puts the health and well-being of the animals you love first by delivering the best nutrition through premium forage and highest-quality animal care products.

Founded in 1981, Standlee has carefully grown and manufactured sun-cured forage to ensure high-quality and consistent nutrition. Their finished products are managed to ensure year-round supply and are delivered to customers by the largest distribution network of forage products in the United States. They provide premium forage in a variety of types and in a wide range of product formats, including pellets, cubes, chopped, and bales. To keep your animals at peak health and performance throughout the year Standlee forage is the perfect nutritional solution for horses, livestock, small animals, and poultry.

Standlee has committed to providing a premium experience when purchasing their products. You can trust it was made with the same dedication as if they are caring for your own animals.

— Edited Press Release

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