The Surefire Horse Trials in Purcellville, Virginia ran 18 divisions from Beginner Novice through Intermediate levels over three days last weekend. Riders enjoyed the cooler than normal weather and improved footing as they got their chance to ride at Jan Byyny’s beautiful farm. Winners included: Sara Kozumplik (OI, ON-A), Collin Reynolds (JYOP), Emily Rzucidlo (OP-A), Jennie Brannigan (OP-B, ON-B), Sarah Mackenzie Nelson (JOT), Phillip Dutton (OT-A), Sharon White (OT-B), Brittany Bridges (OT-C), Lauren Kieffer (OT-D), Arden Wildasin (JN), Dorry Gascon (ON-C), Allison Springer (ON-D), Heidi Siegmund (ON-E), Caroline Muller (pictured above, JBN), Betsy Hafner (OBN-A), and Victoria Jessop (OBN-B).
Full Results | Leslie Mintz/USEA Photo.
The horses in trainer Joe Davis’ barn at Horseshoe Indianapolis don’t just get standard hay in their nets each day. Throughout the afternoon, Davis or one of his employees opens the HayGain machine that sits at the end of his shed row and pulls out a warm, beautiful-smelling bale of freshly-steamed hay to fill their nets.
Are you following along with the action from home this weekend? Or maybe you're competing at an event and need information fast. Either way, we’ve got you covered! Check out the USEA’s Weekend Quick Links for links to information including the prize list, ride times, live scores, and more for all the events running this weekend.
Last month, readers met VIP Volunteer Rebecca Proetto, who volunteered at the MARS Maryland 5 Star horse inspection. This month, the focus turns to husband and wife Ed and Leanne Barnett who introduced Proetto to the art of running an efficient horse inspection at Maryland. Ed and Leanne undertake a 12-hour drive from their home in Indiana to Maryland just to volunteer at the event.
The USEA is saddened to share the passing of Sara Kozumplik’s five-star partner As You Like It at the age of 34. The gelding died in his sleep at his retirement home at Kozumplik's parents' residence.