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Apr 24, 2020
Fernhill Flutter (2002-2020)
Fernhill Flutter sadly passed away on April 22 due to colic. He was 18 years old. Fernhill Flutter (Puissance x Warrior Queen) was bred in Ireland by Samuel Smyth and was given the name Butterfly Orchid. He got his start in eventing in Italy and competed through the CCI3*-L level before being sold to Dr. Kevin Keane at the age of 8. Dr. Keane brought “Butterfly” to the U.S. and brought him through the levels all the way to CCI5*.
In 2011 the pair finished sixth at the Bromont CCI2* (now CCI3*-L) and went on to finish fourth in their Advanced debut at Millbrook. The following year they finished third at the Fair Hill CIC3* (now CCI4*-S) and third at the Bromont CCI3* (now CCI4*-L). They competed at their first Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event in 2014 placing 28th. They returned the following year, but retired on course.
In 2016 Butterfly began the next stage of his career – teaching young riders the ropes of the upper levels. He competed with Morgan McCue through Intermediate and then was purchased by Natasha Erschen. With Erschen Butterfly won the 2018 Fork CIC1* (now CCI2*-S) and the Fitch’s Corner JYOP the same year.
McCue said in a statement on Facebook “Today my family and I received the news that Fernhill Flutter has passed away. He was an absolutely tremendous horse and I felt honored whenever I got on his back. Thank you, Kevin for allowing me to learn from this horse. Thank you Bfly for everything.”
Erschen said, “Oh Butterfly, I still cannot believe it’s true. You were the greatest friend, I will truly miss you everyday.”
The USEA sends its sincerest condolences to all of Fernhill Flutter’s connections.
May 08, 2025
Competitions
Tom McEwen and JL Dublin are Stars of the Show at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials
The Olympic gold medallists Tom McEwen and JL Dublin lit up the arena at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials with a stunning performance and took the lead after the first day of dressage with the excellent mark of 22.4. They have almost five penalties over second-placed Emily King and Valmy Biats on 27.3.
May 08, 2025
Education
Pressure Proof Tip with Daniel Stewart: Reframing Isn't About Hanging Pictures
At some point in your riding career, you probably found yourself feeling or dealing with a little fear, failure, or frustration. We’ve all been there. Regardless of whether we’re competitive or recreational, we’ve likely found ourselves getting a bit stuck on stress or a struggle; dealing with a little defeat or disappointment, or feeling overwhelmed or underprepared.
May 07, 2025
Interscholastic
Through the Lens: 2025 USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Eventing Championships
We might still be recovering physically from the excitement of the 2025 USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Eventing Championships, but mentally we keep playing the weekend over and over again in our heads. This is a weekend that many eventers and lovers of the sport all over the country (ourselves included) look forward to each year and this year was no exception. From teams getting to experience their first time ever at the championship to mascots swapping gear in a show of camaraderie, there were so many great moments that took place during this year's end-of-the-school-year event. Take a look at some of our favorite moments from the three day competition below!
May 06, 2025
Competitions
Fast Facts: Tryon International Three-Day Event
As we gear up for the summer, the competition season isn’t slowing down and it’s time for one of the staple events on the international calendar in the U.S., the Tryon International Three-Day Event (Mill Spring, North Carolina). This event hosts one of five CCI4*-L events on the U.S. calendar, and this year there are 13 competitors in the field. Continue reading below for more interesting facts pertaining to the event that kicks off this Thursday, May 8.
