“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. We're testing a new episode format this week, as we hope to begin utilizing this platform for long-form discussions covering a variety of in-depth discussions, for which our featured guests and co-hosts will act as an expert panelist to contribute to a deeper dive into topics, events, and various areas of our industry we feel deserve a spotlight.

The Kentucky Three-Day Event is no mere walk in the park — it's a pilgrimage, the place where the eventing world convenes every spring, where legends are made on cross country, and where first-time spectators leave as lifelong eventing fans. If you've never been — or if you've been a dozen times and still feel like you're figuring it out as you go — this episode is your cheat sheet, a one-stop guide from seasoned attendees with all the tips and tricks to making the most of your Kentucky week.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

🔎What’s Inside Season 2, Episode 5?

Host Sally Spickard is joined by Cherie Chauvin, Director of Optimum Time - Global Eventing Tourism, for a comprehensive insider's guide to experiencing the Kentucky Three-Day Event like a seasoned pro. Whether you're planning your first trip to the Bluegrass or looking to finally stop missing the things everyone else seems to know about, Cherie has spent more time navigating this event than almost anyone — and she's sharing all of it.

Which activities you should star on the schedule? What are the tricks to navigating cross-country day? Should you stay to watch the awards ceremony? What inspires someone to go into the porta-potty business? What flavor of ice cream should you bring to meet Bruce Davidson? Learn more about the answers to these questions (as well as Sally’s near-criminal experience on course in Paris) in this episode filled to the brim with all the insider tricks you’ll need at Kentucky!

🔥In This Episode, We Cover...

Join EN and Optimum Time - Global Eventing Tourism at the Kentucky Three-Day Event on Friday, April 24th at 10am for a Win the Warmup Experience, featuring guest host Lainey Ashker. This is a great educational experience, and completely FREE, so save your spot with the link below and we'll look forward to seeing you there! We also had EN photographer and reporter Atalya Boytner catch up with our most recent 5* winner, Oliver Barrett, who just this past weekend won the Adelaide CCI5* on his homebred Sandhills Briar. Listen in to their exclusive interview, and join us in keeping our eye on this young star as he aims for "that pretty big event in August in Germany".

[Click here to RSVP for the EN x Optimum Time KY3DE Win the Warmup Experience]

[Read it on EN — A Weekend in Adelaide: Wins On and Off the Leaderboard, A Full Circle Family Dream and Career Goals Realized]

[US Equestrian Open Leaderboard]

[EN’s KY3DE Form Guide]

From rookies to old favorites, up-and-coming stars to 5* winners, this year's entry list is sure to be packed full of drama. [Click here to follow along with all of Eventing Nation's Kentucky coverage] where you can find pre-event stories and rookie highlights, mid-competition updates and breaking news, and post-event reports and highlights from our team on the ground and around the world.

[Read it on EN — The Newest Members of the Pink Pony Club: Ali Kuhn and Little Hail (and how the Pink began)]

Follow along as you listen and star all the places and activities Sally and Cherie mention on the grounds map here:

34:58 - (Saturday) Cross Country Day

57:29 - (Wednesday) Horse Inspection Day

1:01:57 - (Thursday & Friday) Dressage & CSI5* Days

1:08:29 - Shopping & Vendors

1:21:51 - (Sunday) Show Jumping Day

1:32:38 - Dining & Drinking

1:40:59 - Bathrooms & Hydration

1:51:18 - The Official KY Scavenger Hunt

1:57:06 - Watching at Home

1:58:58 - Navigation, Volunteers, & Rules of the Park

Make sure to check out the Official Event Program at the Park or on their website, as it includes links to all the official happenings and activities during the event, info on every horse and rider entry, breakdowns of the 4* and 5* dressage tests, and our favorite: a guide to the cross country and show jumping courses with details on every single obstacle our competitors will see.

Follow Cherie and plan your next eventing trip with Optimum Time:

Like this episode format and want more like it? Hated it and want us to stop rambling on and taking up two hours of your life that you'll never get back? Send us your feedback at [email protected] and tell us what other topics you'd like covered.

🎧 Tune In to Eventing Everywhere with EN

Head over to EventingNation.com to read all the latest from all levels of eventing across the globe. Connect with us @goeventing, or you can reach us anytime at [email protected].

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Go Eventing wherever you get your podcasts! Let's keep building this community together.

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives

__________________________________________________________________________

The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and stories that make our sport unforgettable.

Our vision: Celebrate the stories of eventing while connecting fans, riders, and supporters worldwide.

What makes us different:

“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. This week, we're going across the pond to bring you a conversation with one of European eventing's (and EN's) most beloved riders, whose career is defined as much by emotional intelligence and patience as it is by podium finishes.

The eventing world is built on partnerships with horses, family, teammates, and the sport itself. This episode explores all of it — the highs of an unexpected 5* win, the humbling reality of balancing a competitive career with motherhood, and what it takes to build something lasting in this sport, from a breeding program rooted in love to a legacy built on the belief that dreaming big is non-negotiable.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

🔎What’s Inside Season 2, Episode 4?

Host Sally Spickard sits down with two-time Belgian Olympian Lara de Liedekerke-Meier for a multi-faceted conversation that spans the full arc of a life built around horses. Based at her family's breeding operation at Arville, Lara is as thoughtful a horsewoman as she is a competitor — someone who has balanced ambition and patience, personal goals and team responsibility, and a family life as one of two parents at the highest level of sport. From her emotional victory at Luhmühlen to her reflections on the state of eventing in Belgium, Lara brings the kind of perspective that can only come from decades in the industry and a genuine love for every horse in her barn, both past and present.

🔥In This Episode, We Cover...

Listen in to some exclusive interview clips following a triple US Equestrian Open Qualifier calendar combo. Sally speaks with Colleen Loach, who took her fourth consecutive win of the season on FE Golden Eye at the Event at TerraNova 4*-S. We check in with Tommy Greengard after his 1-2 punch win on Balladeer Kilbrickens Lad and second-place finish with That’s Me Z at the Galway Downs 4*-S. She also shares a call with Lucienne Bellissimo regarding her Stable View 4*-S win on Dyri, where they finished on their dressage score in an incredibly competitive class.

Additionally, join us in congratulating Asia Sieve for winning the Five Star Eventing Tours Horse Hero Contest, from which she will receive a free all-inclusive trip to the Burghley Horse Trials!

Lara takes us behind the scenes of Arville's breeding program, one built on a deep and lasting emotional connection to her mares. She traces the role that intuition and patience have played in building a program filled with a lot of love and a little bit of luck, and reflects on the horses — including the pivotal Nooney Blue — who have shaped the trajectory of her career. The conversation takes a beautifully honest turn as Lara revisits her unexpected 5* win at Luhmühlen that left the eventing world without a dry eye in the house, letting us in on her rollercoaster of emotion, surprise, and what it meant to achieve something she hadn't dared to hope for. She and Sally dive into the challenge of managing expectations in a sport where so much is outside your control, and why striving to learn from failure is one of the most important skills a rider can develop.

Lara speaks candidly about what motherhood has given her as a competitor: perspective, prioritization, and the reminder that her children love her for who she is, not what she wins. She reflects on the way horses mirror that same lesson with their own timeline, needs, and expectations, stressing that the best thing a rider can do is resist the urge to impose their goals where they simply don't fit.

The episode also turns to the broader landscape of eventing in Belgium — one Lara believes has genuine potential, but strives on its behalf for more commitment, more training infrastructure, and more dreaming from its riders. She speaks with real investment about the next generation, the role of team dynamics in nurturing young talent, and how funding and training opportunities in Belgium compare to the sport's powerhouses like Great Britain. Her message to up-and-coming eventers is clear: ambition isn't optional — it's the foundation our sport is built on.

[Read it on EN: FEI Releases Tribunal Decision + Statement from Tine Magnus (BEL) Following Positive Test at Paris Olympics]

Follow along with Lara and Arville!

Instagram: @laradeliedekerke @eventingarville

🎧 Tune In to Eventing Everywhere with EN

Head over to EventingNation.com to read all the latest from all levels of eventing across the globe. Connect with us @goeventing, or you can reach us anytime at [email protected].

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Go Eventing wherever you get your podcasts! Let's keep building this community together.

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives

__________________________________________________________________________

The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and stories that make our sport unforgettable.

Our vision: Celebrate the stories of eventing while connecting fans, riders, and supporters worldwide.

What makes us different:

“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. This week, we're pulling back the curtain on the side of the sport that competitors depend on, but rarely receive an inside look at. From the judge's booth to the horse inspection strip, the licensed officials who keep eventing running safely and fairly carry enormous responsibility, so we're shining the spotlight on someone who knows the ins and outs of this high-pressure world — as well as what it's like to be the one cantering down the centerline.

Whether you're a seasoned competitor trying to crack the code on your dressage scores, an up-and-coming rider working through the levels, or simply a fan who's ever wondered what's happening inside the booth, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.

__________________________________________________________________________

🔎What’s Inside Season 2, Episode 3?

Host Sally Spickard sits down with FEI judge, Olympian, and long-time eventing official Peter Gray for a zoomed-out conversation on what it takes to uphold the standards of our sport at the highest level. Peter brings a rare dual perspective, having competed at the top of the sport and now judging it as an official — making him uniquely positioned to speak to both the rider's experience and the judge's eye. From the nuances of progressive dressage scoring to the mental resilience required to make split-second decisions during cross country, Peter offers practical insight for riders at every level while pulling back the curtain on what officiating at the FEI level truly demands.

🔥In This Episode, We Cover...

Sally talks through the recent cancellation of the 2026 Maryland 5 Star and what that means for the US and worldwide sport calendar for this year. The EN team had boots on the ground at the Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International CCI & HT, where West-coast queen Tamie Smith swept the board with wins in the CCI2*-S, 3*-S, and 4*-S, so listen in to an interview with Sally and the champion herself regarding her current horses and her plans out East. We also bring you an exclusive phone interview with Elisa Wallace following her second-place finish at the 2026 Road to the Horse World Championship -- where she may have left without an empty trailer!

[Road to the Horse YouTube replays]

[Full interview with Carolina International CCI1* winner Lee Maher (and Chris Talley)]

[Full interview with Carolina International CCI 2*, 3*, & 4* winner Tamie Smith]

Peter leads us through the world of FEI officiating, both what it looks like from the inside and what it means for the competitors. He walks through the judging process at the FEI level, how horse inspections are conducted, what officials are truly evaluating during a ground jury assessment, and how technology is increasingly shaping the way dressage scores are recorded and reviewed. He shares practical, level-appropriate guidance rooted in the principles of progressive training and patient horse development, emphasizing that what earns scores at 5* is the same foundation being built at Beginner Novice. He and Sally explore how the evolution of eventing as a discipline has shifted both training philosophies and judging standards over time, and what role coaches and officials play in keeping that development on track. Peter also speaks candidly about the mental demands of officiating, the pressure of real-time decision-making during cross country, how officials process and manage uncertainty, and what it means to carry responsibility for the safety and fairness of the sport at its highest level — because in the end, it's all about the horse.

[Listen in to Peter Grey on Ride iQ's In Stride Podcast]

[USEF Licensed Officials requirements]

Follow along with Peter Gray!

🎧 Tune In to Eventing Everywhere with EN

Head over to EventingNation.com to read all the latest from all levels of eventing across the globe. Connect with us @goeventing, or you can reach us anytime at [email protected].

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Go Eventing wherever you get your podcasts! Let's keep building this community together.

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives

__________________________________________________________________________

The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and stories that make our sport unforgettable.

Our vision: Celebrate the stories of eventing while connecting fans, riders, and supporters worldwide.

What makes us different:

“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. This week, we're sitting down with someone who knows the sport from nearly every angle as a competitor, a dedicated FEI groom, and someone still navigating what comes next. Whether you're early in your equestrian career, mid-transition, or simply trying to find your footing in this ever-demanding industry, this conversation is for you.

The eventing world is full of passion, but it isn't always easy to sustain. Join us as we dive into the real conversations our community needs to be having: about compensation, career paths, mental health, and what it means to build a life in the horse world that actually lasts.

__________________________________________________________________________

🔎What’s Inside Season 2, Episode 2?

Host Sally Spickard sits down with top eventing groom Courtney Carson to talk about her journey from caring for Olympic athletes to a new chapter outside of the barn. As an Olympic-level FEI groom and program manager, equine insurance underwriter, Founding International Director and US Coordinator for the International Grooms Association, and a newly-appointed FEI Licensed Level 1 Steward, Courtney brings a multi-faceted perspective on what our industry asks of its people and what it owes them in return. This episode covers a special reunion between Courtney and longtime Doug Payne ride Vandiver, horse retirement, mental health, the importance of community, and how to make equestrian sport more accessible and sustainable for the next generation of professionals.

🔥In This Episode, We Cover...

Sally brings us all up to date on happenings from the $100,000 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase at Bruce's Field, including some exclusive interviews with our 2026 champion Phillip Dutton. We get an insight into the emotion behind his win due to Phillip's close relationship to the late Bruce Duchossois, and check in with other standout performances from Aiken, including Australia's own Sophia Hill. Sally also touches on Eventing Nation's presence at the event, where we partnered with Cherie Chauvin from Optimum Time Global Eventing Tourism to provide an educational "Win the Warmup" session with Silva Martin — a highlight that we hope to continue offering at future events! 

The US' first CCI4*-S of the season also took place this past weekend in Bouckaert Equestrian HT International — the first 2026 qualifier for this year's  US Equestrian Open of Eventing. Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Connor ended the weekend with a victory, moving Caroline up the US Equestrian Open's Leaderboard to tie for first place in the current standings.

Courtney speaks openly about the identity that comes with being a groom and the emotional complexity of stepping away — even when it's the right move. Thanks to his incredible owners Debi & Kevin Crowley, Courtney was also recently granted the chance to reunite with Vandiver, her long-time charge under Doug Payne, giving some great insights on the reality of retiring horses and what their lives look like outside the competition ring. She and Sally also address some of the thorniest issues in the equestrian workforce, from wages and housing to building support systems to the lack of structured career pathways for those entering the industry, hoping that our listeners can leave this episode with an eye open for what our eventing community can do better. 

🏆If you'd like to win a copy of World Class Grooming by top FEI grooms Cat Hill and Emma Ford, click here to sign up for our weekly email newsletter "Between the Flags" -- we'll be drawing one winner from our subscribers to be announced on our next episode on March 24th!

[Click here to learn more about everything the International Grooms Association offers]

[Learn about the USEA Grooms Program and their 2026 Educational Series]

Courtney expresses her willingness to work with anyone navigating the equestrian industry to find mentors, provide resources, teach about the freelancing life, or point them in the right direction for their desired career path.

Get in touch with Courtney!

🎧 Tune In to Eventing Everywhere with EN

Head over to EventingNation.com to read all the latest from all levels of eventing across the globe. Connect with us @goeventing, or you can reach us anytime at [email protected].

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Go Eventing wherever you get your podcasts! Let's keep building this community together.

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives

__________________________________________________________________________

The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and stories that make our sport unforgettable.

Our vision: Celebrate the stories of eventing while connecting fans, riders, and supporters worldwide.

What makes us different:

“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Season 2 of Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. As the 2026 season kicks off, join us as we explore major developments shaping the sport — from the highly anticipated $100,000 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase in Aiken to structural changes within US equestrian leadership and the ripple effects of Olympic funding.

The start of a new season is always about possibility, and this episode captures that forward-looking energy! Whether you’re following high-performance competition, navigating your own partnership with a single upper-level horse, or curious about the evolving structure of the sport, this conversation explores how structural decisions at the top level filter down to everyday competitors.

__________________________________________________________________________

🔎What’s Inside Season 2, Episode 1?

Host Sally Spickard sits down with 5* eventing icon Emily Hamel to dive into the realities of building a partnership with a single top-level horse, the patience required to develop trust over time, and what it means to manage expectations while pursuing competitive goals. After their recent completion at Les 5 Etoiles de Pau in October 2025, Emily and her 5* partner Corvett (known as Barry to his friends and fans) became the first North-American horse and rider pair to finish all six Northern Hemisphere CCI5* events — a huge achievement for not only their partnership, but eventing as a whole. With reflections on community, opportunity, and the vibrant equestrian hub of Aiken, this episode sets the tone for a season full of growth.

🔥In This Episode, We Cover...

Sally and Emily discuss the upcoming $100,000 LiftMaster Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase, considered the "season opener" in the heart of eventing country in Aiken, SC. Recent news highlights include Great Britain’s Molly Day joining the FEI as the Director of the newly-merged Eventing and Driving departments, vacating her former position of Event Director of EEI, a position subsequently succeeded by Vanessa Coleman, the former Competition Director for the Kentucky 5*. Sally and Emily also discuss an article highlighting billionaire Ross Stevens and the fund he created to provide $200,000 to every US Olympic and Paralympic Athlete over the next 6 years.

[RSVP for the EN x Optimum Time 'Win the Warmup' Experience at Grand-Prix Eventing]

[Watch the Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase live on ClipMyHorse.TV]

Emily guides the listeners through her journey from meeting Barry to completing their 10th CCI5* together, and what the path looks like when climbing the levels to 5* with just one horse. She touches on mistakes she's learned from and lessons she'll take into partnerships with her up-and-coming horses. Emily places a big emphasis on goals, stressing the importance of a strong partnership while making sure to approach each horse as an individual, without trying to force your goals where they may not fit. She and Sally laugh about Barry's character quirks that have brought him such a devoted fan base, and how Emily has had to adjust her mindset over the years to cater to Barry's rather particular needs.

[Video of Barry going to his room all on his own]

While Emily may have moved to Aiken rather recently, she now considers it her home. Her home base of Good Fortunes Farm was scouted out by EN's amazing sponsor Deirdre Stoker Vaillancourt Real Estate.

If you enjoy Jimmy Kimmel's "Celebrities Read Mean Tweets", you'll love Emily reading some of the more opinionated comments on EN's first million-view reel from the Kentucky Three-Day Event last year, featuring Emily's infamous recovery after a particularly enthusiastic jump by Barry in show jumping! While many comments applauded her impressive save, the keyboard warriors -- as always -- came out to make sure Emily was informed on how they would do it differently!

We have a wealth of exciting cohosts planned for this season, including recent Maryland 5 Star winner Felix Vogg, Olympic medalist Kim Severson, FEI Dressage Judge Peter Gray, and Belgian Olympic eventer Lara de Liedekerke-Meier — just to name a few!

Go Eventing will also be debuting a new format in some future episodes, designed to provide a deep-dive of important topics we think deserve a more focused discussion. Stay tuned for our first discussion focusing on safety and technological advances in Eventing coming your way soon.

🎧 Tune In to Eventing Everywhere with EN

Head over to EventingNation.com to read all the latest from all levels of eventing across the globe. Connect with us @goeventing, or you can reach us anytime at [email protected].

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Go Eventing wherever you get your podcasts! Let's keep building this community together.

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives

__________________________________________________________________________

The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and stories that make our sport unforgettable.

Our vision: Celebrate the stories of eventing while connecting fans, riders, and supporters worldwide.

What makes us different:

“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. In our final episode for 2025, our conversation explores what it really takes to build a long-term career in the sport — from the early days of saying yes to every clinic, opportunity, and horse, to learning when to prioritize, delegate, and turn down offers. We also highlight the pressures of modern professional riding and how staying “all-in,” even while balancing family life, is both the hardest and the most rewarding part of the journey.

This episode brings together the themes that defined our entire eventing year: growth, grit, relationships, and the evolving landscape of eventing. Whether you're a competitive rider, a dedicated amateur, or a fan of the sport, this episode offers thoughtful insights on what it takes to stay inspired, stay committed, and keep moving forward. It’s equal parts reflective and energizing, and a perfect close to Season 1.

🔎What’s Inside Episode 20?

Host Sally Spickard finally settles in for a chat with long-awaited and highly-requested co-host, Olympian, and social media sensation Boyd Martin! We explore the evolution of his program, his recent successes, and how he navigates the nonstop demands of top-level eventing. They touch on his upcoming travel to Australia, the growth of Windurra as a premier training hub, and the ever-present challenge of balancing ambition, opportunity, and family life. With his Boyd signature charm matched by his close rapport with Sally, this finale is one you won't want to miss!

🔥 In This Episode, We Cover...

Winner of the inaugural US Equestrian Open CCI4*-S Series as well as the Open's CCI4*-L Final at Morven Park, Boyd's end-of-season for 2025 has certainly made a lasting mark! 

Boyd shares his insight and candid thoughts on the realities of building a riding career — from choosing owners and syndicate partners to leveraging clinics and communication — and offers perspective on accessibility, social media, and the future of US eventing. Boyd also touches on what he’s learned about communicating clearly and treating people well so they stay in your corner for the long haul — traits that are vitally important when his career as an Olympian, his training center at Windurra, and personality as a social media icon for the sport all depend upon his success.

[Click here to register for Natalie Hummel & Boyd Martin free Champion's Code webinar on November 20th]

[Click here to listen in to our episode with Natalie Hummel on the Go Eventing Podcast!]

Sally throws out a handful of listener questions rapid-fire at Boyd — everything from football plays to horror movie picks to haiku creation (or fundamental lack thereof). Has Silva's love for Felix Vogg been diminished after his champion's cut? Has he ever been stopped by the TSA for his metal skeleton? No holds barred here, so listen in to find out!

It's the bittersweet finale of Season 1 here at the Go Eventing Podcast! We're humbled and honored you chose to ride along with us on the journey this year, and the entire team here at EN thanks you for your support and listenership. Stay tuned this winter for some occasional special episodes, but you'll find us back in full swing come spring for the debut of Season 2!

With the close of this season of To Go Eventing Podcast, we'd love it if you could take a moment to fill out our listener survey. All questions are optional and the survey can be filled out anonymously.

🎧 It's the End of Season 1! What's Next?

Head over to EventingNation.com to read all the latest from 5*s and eventing across the globe — and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the Go Eventing Podcast to help grow our community! Connect with us @goeventing, or you can reach us anytime at [email protected]. 

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Go Eventing wherever you get your podcasts! Let's keep building this community together.

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives

The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and stories that make our sport unforgettable.

Our vision: Celebrate the stories of eventing while connecting fans, riders, and supporters worldwide.

What makes us different:

“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. As the eventing season winds down, this penultimate episode takes a deep look into what it truly means to compete and succeed at the highest level of the sport — offering a rare glimpse into the mindset and methodology of a 5* rider at the very top of the sport plans their seasons, balances horse development with competition schedules, and maintains excellence in an increasingly competitive global field. 

If you're a technical nerd when it comes to the nitty-gritty of the eventing sport, or if you’ve ever wondered how 5* riders choose their partners, manage the pressures and politics of team competition, or adapt their training philosophies across their string of horses, this episode is for you. It’s a reminder that eventing is as much about mindset as it is about skill — and that even at the top, an athlete's success depends on trust, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the horse.

🔎What’s Inside Episode 19?

Host Sally Spickard sits down with World Number One Harry Meade, dissecting the art of producing and selecting horses for 5* competition, the strategic challenges of events like Pau, and the evolving landscape of international eventing. They dive deep into the sport’s direction, the future of horse production, and the enduring passion that keeps eventers pushing forward year after year. From the nuances of conditioning and fitness — a talent Harry is renowned for — to the balance between competition frequency and quality, this discussion offers both inspiration and education for riders and fans alike.

Harry is first and foremost an eventing nerd at heart, and provides that methodical inside perspective while balancing a trust in the heart of elite eventing — a sport built on patience, precision, and partnership. How has he gotten such a talented string that he’s able to aim a healthy handful at each and every 5*? Bring your notepad and several pencils, because the answers are complex but fascinating.

🔥 In This Episode, We Cover...

A shakeup finish at Pau ends with Tim Price and Jarillo on top. This is our final 5* of 2025, so Harry and Sally immediately dive in to discuss the significance and intricacies of European 5*s.

The conversation centers on the idea of “horses for courses” — exploring Harry Meade’s philosophy on matching horses to the right level, and how that shapes his business model and long-term goals. He shares why his focus has always been on producing 5* horses rather than chasing championship teams, describing 5*s like Badminton and Burghley as the pinnacle of the sport he's always held dreams of, rather than the Olympics or European Championships. The conversation also dives into what makes an ideal event horse, how Harry maintains his horses' peak fitness, and what the recent decline in 5* entries might signal about the evolving landscape of eventing’s future.

[Read Sally's article "Horses for Courses on MARS Maryland 5 Star Cross Country Day"]

Sally aims the more thought-provoking and controversial questions at Harry, pressing for answers on his 5* choices and future aims for international competition. Also — do you eat breakfast on cross-country day or keep an empty stomach? Does Harry raid the riders' tent while waiting for his next ride, or wait it out till he's run all three courses?

[Submit your question for our co-hosts here]

Next up: Our most frequently-requested co-host will be joining us on November 18th for our Season 1 Finale of the Go Eventing Podcast — the one and only Boyd Martin!

🎧 Want to learn more about Harry's recent 5* success across the globe?

Head over to EventingNation.com to read all the latest from 5*s and eventing across the globe — and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the Go Eventing Podcast to help grow our community! Connect with us @goeventing, or you can reach us anytime at [email protected]. 

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Go Eventing wherever you get your podcasts! Let's make this our favorite tack room listen.

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives

The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and stories that make our sport unforgettable.

Our vision: Celebrate the stories of eventing while connecting fans, riders, and supporters worldwide.

What makes us different:

“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. This week, we're taking yet another virtual trip, this time to the beautiful country of Portugal, home of FEI eventer Francisco “Kiko” Stilwell to learn all about eventing in small country, the influence of Portuguese breeding programs, and Kiko’s incredible personal history. 

This episode of The Go Eventing Podcast is brought to you with support from Deirdre Stoker Vaillancourt Real Estate, your go-to source for Aiken property. Whether you're renting for the season or looking for a permanent base, Deirdre has just the ticket for you! Learn more at AikenSCProperties.com.

🔎What’s Inside Episode 18?

This week, host Sally Spickard welcomes 4* rider, breeder, Portugal Eventing Association Vice President, Mata do Duque Event Committee Member, and Portuguese Olympic hopeful Francisco “Kiko” Stilwell – who does all of the above with a prosthetic leg.

We’ve been wanting to chat up Kiko for awhile, as his backstory is nothing short of fascinating. Kiko hails from one of the smallest countries when it comes to eventing, and it’s a community that’s struggled to rebuild after the loss of a prominent rider and coach about a decade ago. Kiko has also experienced his share of adversity, dealing with a congenital spinal disease that caused deformations in his left foot, leaving him susceptible to bone infections and overwhelming pain. In 2020, he made the decision to have the lower portion of his left leg amputated to pursue his dreams and save himself from a lifetime on crutches. He and Sally also discuss the intricacies of breeding for eventing, emphasizing the importance of Thoroughbred bloodlines, finding the perfect balance for all three phases, and the need for a focus on amateur riders to sustain the sport world-wide. It’s a story you won’t want to miss out on.

🔥 In This Episode, We Cover...

[EN’s Coverage of MARS Maryland 5 Star]

[EN’s Coverage of the US Equestrian Open of Eventing]

[EN’s Wishlist of Goresbridge ‘Go For Gold’ Horses]

[Visit the Go For Gold Sale]

[Because Maryland and the US Open certainly weren’t the only big competitions recently, catch up on all the things here]

Sally and Kiko share some shout-outs from Eventing Nation and beyond.

Submit your own Go Eventing Shout-outs at [email protected]!

The story behind Kiko’s decision to have part of his left leg amputated to save him from a life on crutches and off horses. Kiko shares the incredible story of his health history and his love for horses and competing in eventing, showing us all that it’s ok to live this life in the body you have. 

The background of Kiko’s family, which is rich in equestrian history and boasts a successful sporthorse breeding program that has evolved with the identify of eventing and the horses it requires. 

The state of eventing in Portugal. The community in Portugal is a close-knit one, and the sport shrank with the loss of well-respected rider and coach Franciscio Seabra in 2015 and the subsequent departure from the sport by his brother, Duarte. The sport has struggled to recover its numbers in the wake of the tragedy, understandably, and Kiko and his community are determined to keep the sport around in honor of those who came before.

[Learn more about Portugal’s two-week eventing extravaganza, Mata do Duque]

Kiko shares his desire to be accessible and transparent in his journey so that everybody can feel visible in their own bodies, and to that end he answers every message he receives from people wanting to connect. We find out his unread message count (if you haven’t already guessed it), what his bucket list events are, what the best thing to eat in Portugal is and more. 

[Follow Kiko on Instagram here and hold him to his ‘answer every message’ promise!]

[Submit your question for our co-hosts here]

Next up: we only have two episodes left before the end of the season (say it ain't so)! Stay tuned in November for the final episodes of our first season featuring two recent World Number One riders: Harry Meade of Great Britain and US Equestrian Open Champion Boyd Martin!

🎧Listen Now and Join the Conversation!

Got thoughts, questions, or feedback? Your voice is a part of our story – we want to hear from you! Find us on social media @goeventing or email us at [email protected]. 

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Go Eventing wherever you get your podcasts! Let's keep building this community together.

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives

The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and stories that make our sport unforgettable.

Our vision: Celebrate the stories of eventing while connecting fans, riders, and supporters worldwide.

What makes us different:

“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. This week, we're taking a virtual trip north to visit one of our Canadian neighbors, learn about eventing life in Canada, catch up with a fan favorite horse and much more. 

This episode of The Go Eventing Podcast is brought to you with support from Deirdre Stoker Vaillancourt Real Estate, your go-to source for Aiken property. Whether you're renting for the season or looking for a permanent base, Deirdre has just the ticket for you! Learn more at AikenSCProperties.com.

🔎What’s Inside Episode 17?

In this episode of the Go Eventing Podcast, host Sally Spickard and Team Canada event rider and three-time Olympian Jessica ("Jessie") Phoenix. 

Jessie is one of Canada’s most decorated eventing athletes and a five-time Pan American Games medalist. From capturing individual gold at the 2011 Pan Ams in Guadalajara, to representing the maple leaf at both the London and Rio Olympic Games, she has been a driving force in Canadian eventing for more than a decade.

She’s partnered with some of the sport’s most iconic horses like Pavarotti, Exponential, and A Little Romance, and her grit is as legendary as her medal record. 

Off the horse, Jessie is a mom, a business grad, and someone who lives by her favorite motto: “If you can dream it, you can become it.”

🔥 In This Episode, We Cover...

[A Major Victory for Eventing in Canada at Wesley Clover Parks]

[Click here for the EquiRatings Eventing Manager — and join the Eventing Nation League with code “PCTD”]

Sally and Jessie shout out some deserving individuals and groups of people -- be sure to tune in for some sage advice on overcoming setbacks in your riding! 

Submit your own Go Eventing Shout-outs at [email protected]!

Canada is buzzing: Wesley Clover Parks brings FEI eventing back, Glen Oro returns, and Bromont remains the ultimate home-turf test.

Why it matters: More quality runs without crossing the border (and that brutal exchange rate).

[Learn more about the Eventing Clinics Across the Nation series here]

Go-to gear: Tipperary helmet + vest. Jessica calls MIPS “life-changing” after multiple falls with no concussions.

Do more good: Support frangible tech—Manton Foundation has a $250k match via USEA Foundation. Jon Holling is running 10 miles per $50k. Jess is in as a guest runner.

Be sure to visit Ride EquiSafe for all of your safety equipment needs!

[Click here to learn more about the $250,000 Manton Foundation Matching Grant]

A few of the potentially stupidest questions we've ever asked a co-host, the story of "Bill the Batterer" (or "Lamby," if you prefer), and what Professor Pavarotti is up to these days.

[Submit your question for our co-hosts here]

Coming up in Episode 18: Sally will be joined next by Portuguese FEI eventer Kiko Stilwell, an inspirational figure you won't want to miss — so tune back in soon!

One note: Our 18th episode will be slightly delayed from its originally scheduled release date of October 21st to allow us time to record and edit following the MARS Maryland 5 Star. 

🎧Listen Now and Join the Conversation!

Got thoughts, questions, or feedback? Your voice is a part of our story – we want to hear from you! Find us on social media @goeventing or email us at [email protected]. 

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Go Eventing wherever you get your podcasts! Let's keep building this community together.

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives

The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and stories that make our sport unforgettable.

Our vision: Celebrate the stories of eventing while connecting fans, riders, and supporters worldwide.

What makes us different:

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. This week, we're diving back into some important topics facing the horse world and, specifically, our sport of eventing. 

🔎 What’s Inside Episode 16?

Host Sally Spickard is joined by U.S. Olympic rider and World Championships/Pan Ams medalist Lauren Nicholson, who’s well-known in the sport for her love producing horses and riders for the future and being a vocal advocate for the sport as a member of approximately 47 USEF and USEA committees. 

Lauren sits down with Sally in this episode to discuss topics ranging from her system and business set-up at home, why she chose to be so involved at every imaginable level, why she just can't help but "poke the trolls" every now and then, and what the future holds for the sport we all love. 

This episode is brought to you with support from the The Maryland Horse Park System, developed by the Maryland Horse Industry Board to be an alliance of three cornerstone equestrian destinations – Prince George’s Equestrian Center, Fair Hill Special Events Zone, and the Maryland Horse Library & Education Center. In partnership with qualifying Affiliate Members, the unified mission is to promote Maryland as a world class equine industry and destination. To learn more about the Maryland Horse Park system, click here.

🔥 In This Episode, We Cover…

Sally and Lauren discuss some newsworthy items, including a happy new update from Paris Olympian Liz Halliday, a new Maryland Masterclass with Ian Stark and Pierre le Goupil, and a chance to win free feed for your horse from Sentinel Horse Nutrition. 

[A New Update from Liz Halliday]

[Purchase your ticket to the Maryland Masterclass]

[Enter to Win Free Feed for a Year from Sentinel Horse Nutrition]

Sally and Lauren recognize some members of the eventing community, including a listener shout-out to Wesley Clover Parks in Ottawa, Ontario. The new FEI eventing at Ottawa, largely thanks to the Laframboise Family Legacy Fund (which also has helped with funding at Bromont CCI Three Day Event, helping keep FEI eventing active in Canada. Their event will have just concluded as you’re listening to this. They ran up to CCI2*-S with courses designed by Jay Hambly. WCP is located right near the city, which is a unique element of this venue. 

Submit your own Go Eventing Shout-outs at [email protected]!

Lauren’s spent several years as an active member of multiple governing committees. She and Sally spend some time on the topic of committee procedure, amateur representation and rule changes, which then leads them into a discussion on social license and horse welfare. Lauren takes a firm stance that curiosity is key when it comes to treating our horses well, and the people she respects most are those who are willing to learn “what they don’t know.” She advises listeners on what makes her respect her fellow horsemen and women, and how we can look at our horses with longevity in mind.

To see any ongoing Rule Change Proposals that are open for comment, log in to your USEA account (the USEA has the authority to submit rule change proposals to USEF for eventing). USEA members (even Supporting Members) can comment on rules using the Rule Change Proposal Survey(s) under "Online Services" after logging in. View the USEF rule change process here.

*Heads up* We experienced some service issues during this segment, so we apologize for the quality disturbances.

Sally and Lauren discuss some “old school” versus “new school” ideas, especially when it comes to horse fitness, as well as using different technologies and techniques with her horses with the idea of simplicity as a navigating force.

For riders who do want the numbers to back up their feel, products like Horsepal are helping eventers track heart rate, recovery, and conditioning in a whole new way. We’ve just published a review of the Horsepal monitor, and you can order it worldwide at horsepal.com.

[Read EN’s review of Horsepal]

What does Lauren do on a rare day off? What is her go-to cooking recipe? 

[Submit your questions for our co-hosts here]

We are nearing the end of Season 1 of The Go Eventing Podcast! Thank you for making it a success! Stay tuned to EN's socials for a special announcement of our final four co-hosts, coming soon! 

🎧 Want to keep following along with eventing at its best?

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the Go Eventing Podcast to help grow our community! Connect with us @goeventing, or you can reach us anytime at [email protected]. 

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Go Eventing wherever you get your podcasts! Let's make this your favorite tack room listen.  

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives

A word from our sponsor: For incredible horse experiences, look no further than The Maryland Horse Park System. With one-of-a-kind destinations across the state, the Maryland Horse Park System is your gateway to connect with horses your way—whether you're a fan or an equestrian, a beginner or a pro. From World Cup Show Jumping and iconic racing to international eventing, scenic trail riding and hands-on education, it’s all here and waiting for you. Find locations and event schedules at Marylandhorsepark.org. 

The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and stories that make our sport unforgettable.

Our vision: Celebrate the stories of eventing while connecting fans, riders, and supporters worldwide.

What makes us different: