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.
Eventing combines three phases: dressage, show jumping, and cross-country. It is arguable that many eventers compete in this sport because of the cross-country phase. It's a fan-favorite for sure with its wide open galloping tracks, a wide variety of obstacles to jump, and the ability to encounter natural elements such as water, banks, ditches, and more!
Boyd Martin came into cross-country today in the CCI4*-S at Stable View in an enviable position, holding the top three places, and he put in three strong performances with his Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event-bound horses, finishing on top with Commando 3 (38.0), in second with Fedarman B (38.8), and in fourth with Luke 140 (40.4).
Boyd Martin has always believed in Luke 140 since he came to his barn in 2019. The fiery bay gelding has completed one five-star, in 2023 at Luhmühlen (Germany) where they were fourth, but injuries have meant he’s had to sit out a couple of seasons and miss out on selection for two Olympic Games, most recently in 2024.
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!