“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

“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

“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

“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

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. 

“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. The spotlight this week is on the Defender Burghley Horse Trials — one of the most iconic stops on both the British and global eventing calendar — and our hosts this week join you from a very... unique studio! The conversation highlights the significance of horse welfare and the role of the ground jury in protecting both horses and riders, while also celebrating young talents who are quickly climbing the ranks. With team shoutouts, personal anecdotes, plenty of humor, and a touch of exasperation woven in, this recap captures the passion and spirit of eventing at its best.

🔎What’s Inside Episode 15?

Host Sally Spickard is joined by Eventing Nation editor and British correspondent Tilly Berendt for a lively recap of the Defender Burghley Horse Trials. From Ros Canter’s historic victory aboard Walter, to the electric atmosphere of Burghley’s knowledgeable crowds, this episode dives into the biggest moments, rising stars, and upcoming competitions that are shaping the fall season.

It’s not just about who won — it’s about what the event means for the sport, the riders, the horses, and the fans who follow. Whether you’re looking for thoughtful analysis, EN's token deprecating humor, behind-the-scenes moments, or simply want to stay connected to the global eventing conversation, this episode captures the heart of why we all love eventing.

🔥 In This Episode, We Cover...

Sally and Tilly discuss the next big upcoming events, including the $200,000 US Equestrian Open Final at Morven Park and the Maryland 5 Star. Plus, Sally announces the launch of an exciting new equine wearable coming to the market soon after a recently-attended press event — the Garmin Blaze. Keep an eye out for a product review coming soon!

[Save 5% on MD 5* General Admission tickets with code EVENTINGNATION]

Sally and Tilly recognize EN journalist Chegg Darlington, and Tilly sets aside special shout-outs for the Burghley event team and the 5* grooms, with a special one reserved for Francesca Denning, groom for Austin O'Connor and his fan-favorite mount, Colorado Blue.

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

Expect insights into how young riders are stepping up on the international stage, why Ros Canter’s win is already being called historic, and how the ground jury plays a vital role in maintaining both transparency and horse welfare. You’ll also hear about the atmosphere that makes Burghley one of the most unique and spectator-friendly events in the world, from the buzz of the crowds to the unforgettable moments that only happen here.

[Amanda Chance's FB post on Burghley Breeding Lines]

Get ready for exasperation, humor, and Sally and Tilly's somewhat delirious vibes... because post-event EN team members are all of the above and more.

[Submit your questions for our co-hosts here]

Keep an eye out for our exciting final few (secret) co-hosts before our first season comes to an end!

🎧 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

“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life.  If you’ve ever dreamed of testing your limits, wanted an inside look at the Mongol Derby, or just need a dose of inspiration, this episode brings a rare perspective on what it means to truly partner with a horse — and with yourself — in the ultimate test of endurance. This conversation blends inspiration, humor, and heart, making it a must-listen for anyone who loves stories of resilience and camaraderie in the equestrian world.

🔎What’s Inside Episode 14?

In this episode of the Go Eventing Podcast, host Sally Spickard is joined by Michael Pollard, who shares his incredible adventure competing in the Mongol Derby, the world’s longest (and most grueling) horse race. From the logistical hurdles of traveling to Mongolia to the unique challenges of riding semi-wild horses across hundreds of miles, Michael reflects on the endurance, horsemanship, and grit required to take on such a test.

Michael also dives into the themes of teamwork, integrity, and faith — values that shaped both his experience in the Derby and his wider career in equestrian sports. He opens up about personal growth, balancing passion with profession, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the gratitude he feels for the unwavering support of his wife, Amber, and the wider equestrian community.

🔥 In This Episode, We Cover...

Sally and Michael discuss Team USA's recent success at the Nations Cup at Arville, with Lauren Nicholson and Larcot Z taking the individual gold. Michael lends his unique perspective as a team selector to the topic of team competition and the high level of talent being displayed on the European stage, and don't miss the end-of-season finales at both the Maryland 5 Star and Morven Park's US Equestrian Open Finale this October.

Use ticket code "EVENTINGNATION" for 5% off all GA or reserved seats at the Maryland 5 Star, October 16-19.

Sally recognizes the course builders and designers at events, and Michael gives a heartwarming thank you to his wife, Amber, for her frankly intimidating level of efficiency while he was gone in Mongolia.

Listener Courtney M. also shouts out Bec Braitling, Caroline & Luigi of Inavale Farm, Rosey Paulson, and Debbie Herron.

[Check out Jay Hambly and Derek Di Grazia's course team at work (and the 10/10 effort over that ditch jump)] 

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

Dive in to to Michael's captivating adventure across the Mongolian steppes and learn all about his prep, strategies, and how this experience changed him as a man, rider, and professional. He and Sally recap his most memorable moments, his newly-gained insights on the horses, culture, and environment, and the deep and personal relationships he quickly made among the other competitors. Michael notes that his eventing background gave him a much different advantage than many of his endurance-savvy co-racers, and further details the parallels he found to eventing along his journey.

[Chronicle of the Horse Article]

[Michael on the Jon & Rick Show]

[Michael on Noelle Floyd: Equestrian Voices]

Now that this bucket list item has been checked off for Michael, what's next? Before any of that, of course, he sings an ode to Whole Foods cake — truly the pinnacle of American luxury dessert. He and Sally play a rather amusing game of Two Truths and a Lie that honestly leaves us with more questions than answers...

Thank you to the following Instagram accounts for submitting your questions for Michael!

[Submit  your question for our co-hosts here]

Next up: Sally will be running around at AEC this week — and stay tuned for our next episode live from Burghley!

🎧 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!  

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives

“Where Eventing Lives”

🎙️ Mini Episode: Safe in the Saddle with Catherine Winter of Ride EquiSafe

In this special mini episode, we're joined by Catherine Winter, Founder and CEO of Ride EquiSafe, for a focused conversation on the evolving landscape of safety in equestrian sports. From helmet fitting and body protectors to stirrup design and air vests, Catherine shares why safety is a deeply personal decision that requires informed, proactive choices.

The discussion highlights how research and innovation are driving improvements in rider safety, why inclusivity in equipment design matters, and the role high-profile riders play in setting a positive example for the community. 

Don't forget to sign up for our Ride EquiSafe x Eventing Nation Safe in the Saddle giveaway!

We cover:

Episode links:

🎧 Short, sweet, and packed with expert advice, this is one you'll want to revisit — especially if it's time for you to reevaluate your safety gear.

Contact Catherine at [email protected], or stop by her booth at the following events!

American Eventing Championships (August 25-31)

“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's discussion blends behind-the-scenes stories and lighthearted celebrity comparisons with deep reflections on resilience, trust, and the emotional milestones that define a rider’s career. From training a challenging horse to navigating team dynamics and overcoming missed opportunities, listen in to hear stories on perseverance, evolving perspectives on horse care, and the joys of celebrating a horse’s life beyond the competition arena.

🔎What’s Inside Episode 13?

First and foremost: we wanted to take a moment to pay tribute to Sarah Yorke, a rider in England who tragically passed away after an incident on cross country while competing at Aston-le-Walls. Her horse was not hurt. You can visit the British Eventing Support Trust here.

In this heartfelt episode, host Sally Spickard welcomes Tamie Smith and Alex Ahearn to reflect on the incredible career and lasting legacy of Mai Baum — affectionately known as Lexus — as he heads into retirement.

Tamie and Alex open up about the journey they’ve shared with this extraordinary horse, from Alex’s first rides as a junior to Tamie’s years of championship competition. Along the way, they discuss the pivotal role of financial support in equestrian sport, the transformative power of mentorship, and the importance of keeping the horse's welfare at the center of the conversation.

🔥 In This Episode, We Cover...

Sally relays the application openings for the 2026 Annie Goodwin Rising Star Award and the awarding of support funds from the newly-founded Georgie Campbell Foundation. She, Tamie, and Alex also discuss the 2026 running of Road to the Horse, in which 5* eventer Elisa Wallace will be competing. Additionally, keep an eye out this week for the release of each country's nominated entries for the FEI Eventing European Championships at Blenheim!

Alex shouts out her bosses, Tamie thanks those who attended her clinic at Rebecca Farm, and Sally draws attention to Mary Sawyer, the first eventer to receive the USEA Century Award in 2022 who just won another Century Award for the second time.

[Read more about Mary Sawyer here]

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

Tamie opens up about the perseverance required to ride and train a horse with such talent and complexity, while Alex reflects on their partnership from the early days at novice to the heights of upper-level eventing. The conversation explores the importance of financial support in equestrian sports, the role of community recognition, and the life-changing impact of opportunities like the Rebecca Broussard International Development Grant. They discuss partnership dynamics, horse welfare, fitness and veterinary care, and how perspectives on horse care evolve over time.

Serious questions are asked and answers shared on the dynamic between owner and rider, lessons Tamie and Alex have learned along their journey, and what it takes to keep a champion's mindset amidst the various trials and challenges they both have faced. Tamie and Alex also share a lighthearted debate on which human celebrity Lexus would be, his infamous quirks and demands, and things they've laughed at over the years. Tamie also recalls the humorous lines she's had to draw in regard to her body and physical shape.

Thank you to the following Instagram accounts for submitting your questions for Tamie and Alex!

[Submit your question for our co-hosts here]

At least seven eventers are currently competing in the Mongol Derby, including Michael Pollard who has WON the Derby at the time of publishing! Follow along with the rest of the race [here] or @mongolderby on Instagram.

Next time we talk to you, we'll be on the ground for the American Eventing Championships at Galway Downs!

🎧 Want to know more about Tamie, Alex, and Mai Baum?

We at EN have been Lexus fans from the start of his career, and have covered his and Tamie's rise to the top along the way! Find event coverage, articles and more at @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

“Where Eventing Lives”

Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. In this week's powerful and inspiring episode, we invite you to look with us beyond the competition results, and focus more on how eventing can evolve to become more inclusive, more global, and more sustainable. Whether you’re an athlete, fan, coach, or advocate, this episode is a reminder that eventing’s future is global — and that there’s more than one way to reach the top.

🔎What’s Inside Episode 12?

Host Sally Spickard sits down with Noor Slaoui, the first woman from the Arab States region to compete in Olympic Eventing. From riding mules in the Moroccan mountains to training in France to England where she now runs a successful competition and training program, Noor’s journey is one of bold ambition, cultural pride, and a deep belief in what’s possible. She speaks candidly about the highs and lows of being a trailblazer, from the financial hurdles of high-performance sport to the cultural richness of Morocco’s equestrian heritage.

Also a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Noor opens up about the challenges of entering the sport later than most, her emotional debut at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, and how she’s creating meaningful change in the Moroccan and global equestrian communities.

🔥 In This Episode, We Cover...

There wasn't a dry eye in the house during Mai Baum's retirement ceremony at the Event at Rebecca Farm, so Sally and Noor take us back down memory road with some of his and Tamie's most notable accomplishments. They also cover the upcoming 5*s to be tackled in Defender Burghley and the MARS Maryland 5 Star, as well as several exciting changes coming to Maryland with their new course designer, Paris Olympic designer Pierre Le Goupil. 

Sally and Noor dive into a deeper discussion from a recent COTH article by Matt Brown, titled "Working Ourselves Into The Ground: Rethinking Productivity In The Equestrian World".  Noor draws several parallels to the article from her own journey, and she and Sally discuss how sustainability in this sport requires a true step back to confront and address.

"What if we saw a professional who takes a rest day as someone who’s responsible, not lazy? What if we admired a trainer who works fewer horses but develops them slowly, thoughtfully, and with joy? What if we celebrated business models that prioritize sustainability over volume?" - Matt Brown

Congratulations to the winners of our Go Eventing Podcast 10th Episode Giveaway!

Noor's journey is quite the unique one, and as she and Sally discuss everything from growing eventing in smaller countries to the French education and horse production system, they shed some light on inclusivity, elitism, and longevity in the sport. Noor discusses her upbringing in Morocco riding mules in the mountains and desert, and how she often felt (and still feels) that she is playing a constant game of catch-up while giving her all to be an ambassador for her country. She pushes for advocacy, representation, and education globally, all while keeping both her past and future in mind.

Also, check out Cash In Hand's custom plastic shoes that he wore for the Paris 2024 Olympics!

Noor's organized and logical answer to our horse-sized ducks/duck-sized horses question gets a real laugh out of Sally, and she discusses various travel items on her horsey bucket list. In the game of Two Truths and a Lie, what do you think Noor forgot at home when she traveled to compete at Luhmühlen?? (spoiler alert: it's literally everything)

[Submit your question for our co-hosts here]

Upcoming guest co-hosts include Windurra #Supergroom Steph Simpson, Olympic Show Jumping Gold Medalist and US Eventing Team coach Peter Wylde, and a super-secret guest we hope to reveal soon!

🎧 Inspired by Noor’s journey?

Connect with us @goeventing and let us know how Go Eventing is sparking your own passion or purpose. You can also 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 barn commute listen.

#GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives