Tamie Smith and Mai Baum deliver a fairytale fairwell ending at Rebecca Farm, winning their final upper-level competition together — 10 years after their first 4*-S victory at the same venue. In this episode, Annie and Diarm catch up on the emotional highs, the series impact, and what’s next for the US Equestrian Open.

• Mai Baum’s legendary farewell: A record-breaking 22.0 in dressage, double clear, and the fairy tale win to finish.
• What if…Paris?: Reflections on Mai Baum’s Olympic absence and his undeniable medal potential.
• Tamie’s domination: First and second in the 4*-S with Mai Baum and Jutopia, plus a win in the 4*-L with Lillet 3.
• Post-Mai Baum era: Lillette’s rising profile and what it means for Tammy’s future in the series.
• Tommy Greenguard & That’s Me Z: Major progress, growing confidence, and series leaderboard potential.
• Rebecca as a proving ground: Standout step-ups from Luska Candy Clover, Jess Phoenix’s leaderboard move, and the evolving West Coast impact.
• What’s next in the series: Eyes on Jess Phoenix, the Woodside showdown, and who might shape the final at Morven Park.

• Annie Bishop 
• Diarmuid Byrne 

Stay Connected:

For the most up-to-date series calendar and latest standings, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at usequestrianopen.org. Engage with us on Instagram and Facebook — and use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversatio

In this episode, Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne preview one of the most emotionally charged stops on the US Equestrian Open calendar, as the series heads to Rebecca Farm. At the center of the action is Mai Baum, making his final upper-level appearance after an iconic career with Tamie Smith.

Episode Highlights

• Annie and Diarmuid reflect on Mai Baum’s legacy and what makes this the perfect venue for his farewell.
• The pair break down the stats: Mai Baum tops the Prediction Centre with a 61% win chance and a formidable first-phase average of 24.
• Expect fireworks across the field—Rebecca Farm’s wide-open terrain makes time a major factor.
• Big performances are needed from names like James Alliston, Tommy Greengard, and young gun Jack Curtis.
• The leaderboard is wide open heading into the break—will this be the shake-up weekend?
• Insights into course dynamics, home-field advantage, and the West Coast vs. East Coast narrative.

Guests Annie Bishop Diarmuid Byrne

Listen to the James Alliston interview here.

Listen to the Mai Baum episode here.

Read the Mai Baum article  here.

Stay Connected

For the most up-to-date series calendar and latest standings, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at usequestrianopen.org. Engage with us on Instagram and Facebook — and use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.

In this special episode, we celebrate the remarkable journey of Mai Baum as he prepares for his farewell at Rebecca Farm. Tamie Smith, Alexandra Ahearn, Ellen Ahearn, and Eric Markell join the team to relive the moments that made Lexus unforgettable: from a German auction to Kentucky glory, from heartbreak to heroics.

• A spontaneous trip to a German auction led the Ahearn family to Lexus — and unknowingly to the start of a legendary journey.
• Alex’s decision to step back and let Mai Baum become a US team horse paved the way for a once-in-a-lifetime partnership with Tammy.
• The team opens up about the challenges behind the scenes — from injuries and rare infections to the relentless rehab that brought Lexus back stronger.
• They reflect on pivotal moments like the choice to go to Badminton over Kentucky, the heartbreak of Tokyo, and the glory of finally winning a 5* on home soil.
• With his final upper-level start at Rebecca Farm ahead, the group shares what it means to retire him on their terms — and what he’s taught them along the way.

Guests:

• Tamie Smith: Five-star event rider
• Ellen Ahearn: Mai Baum's owner
• Eric Markell: : Mai Baum's owner
• Alexandra Ahearn: : Mai Baum's previous rider and owner

Hosts:

• Annie Bishop
• Diarmuid Byrne

Stay Connected

For the most up-to-date series calendar and latest standings, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at usequestrianopen.org. Engage with us on Instagram and Facebook — and use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.

Caroline Pamukcu’s wire-to-wire victory at Maryland not only shook up the leaderboard — it marked her sixth counting score and a firm statement heading into the business end of the US Equestrian Open Series.

In this episode, Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne break down the hot conditions, big time penalties, and leaderboard changes that made Maryland such a turning point. From on-the-ground context to what the data says about the season so far, this one is packed with insight.

Highlights

• Caroline’s Climb – Now 3rd in the series standings after a dominant win with She's the One
• Time Trouble – 9 of 10 picked up show jumping time faults
• Canadian Surprise – Lisa Marie Fergusson and Trinity Thank Q jump from 5th to 2nd with their fast showjumping round for their first four-star
• Series Standings Shift – Phillip Dutton and Caroline become the first riders to complete six scores
• Jess Phoenix Watch – Still to gain a sixth counting score, eyes now turn to Aachen and Rebecca Farm
• Aachen Preview – With the top three riders in the Open headed to Germany, can Team USA make a statement before next year’s World Championships?

Guests

• Annie Bishop
• Diarmuid Byrne 

Stay Connected

For the most up-to-date series calendar and latest standings, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at usequestrianopen.org. Engage with us on Instagram and Facebook — and use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.

In this episode, Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne look ahead to one of the most unpredictable four-star shorts of the US season, where tight tactics, hot conditions, and first-time four-stars could produce surprises across the leaderboard.

• Annie and Diarmuid dive into the exciting mix of experienced names like Phillip Dutton and Jenny Brannigan alongside up-and-comers tackling their first four-star.
• A new course designer and a forecast of 90–100°F mean ground conditions will play a big role in strategies.
•  Diarmuid explains the crucial points that are up for grabs 
• Jenny Brannigan returns on Kismet for their four-star debut and could upset the order if they hit their stride.
• Keep an eye on riders like Caroline Pamukcu and Arden Wildasin, who may go fast to put themselves in podium contention.
• Diarmuid shares fascinating data on previous CCI4*-S winners, including one who triumphed despite starting on a dressage score of 50+.
• The Young Rider Championships add an exciting spotlight on the sport’s next generation.

• Annie Bishop
• Diarmuid Byrne

Stay Connected

For the most up-to-date series calendar and latest standings, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at usequestrianopen.org. Engage with us on Instagram and Facebook — and use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.

What makes a hidden gem like Aspen Farms shine? In this episode, Max Corcoran joins Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne to reflect on a standout weekend in the Pacific Northwest — from the charm of a family-run venue to breakout performances and big-picture takeaways for the US Equestrian Open Series.

Episode Highlights

• Max shares what makes Aspen Farms special — top-level footing, stunning scenery, and a tight-knit sense of community.
• Tommy Greengard’s sweep across the 4*, 3*, OI, and Open Prelim proves he’s a rising force with serious depth.
• Aspen’s blend of junior entries and spectator energy signals a healthy future for the sport.
• Jonathan Elliott and his team deliver a welcoming, professional event where family spirit meets elite standards — from water wheels to hot dog BBQs.
• The ‘US Open’ name proves an effective way to connect new fans with the sport, especially over Father’s Day weekend.

Guests

• Max Corcoran
• Annie Bishop
• Diarmuid Byrne

Stay Connected

For the most up-to-date series calendar and latest standings, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at usequestrianopen.org. Engage with us on Instagram and Facebook — and use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.

What does it take to go undefeated in the U.S. Equestrian Open so far? Genay Vaughn joins us from her California farm to talk about the special bond with her horse Gino, the power of musical expression in freestyle, and the support system behind her standout season. From childhood Pony Club memories to European tours and a family that demands excellence, this is a conversation full of grit, joy, and vision for the future.

• Going 4-for-4: Genay reflects on her dream start to the Open and what it means for her and Gino.
• Freestyle with Heart: The story behind her music selections and why it matters.
• Gino’s World: Life with a quirky, confident horse who knows he’s the star of the show.
• Family Roots: How her mom, her coach, and her high-performance dad shaped her journey.
• Pony Club to Podiums: From riding a flood-rescued pony named 'Rescue' to winning at the top level.
• Advice for the Next Gen: Her message to up-and-coming riders navigating the U25 scene.

• Genay Vaughn

• Annie Bishop
• Diarmuid Byrne

Stay Connected:

For the most up-to-date series calendar and latest standings, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at usequestrianopen.org.

Stay connected with the latest news and standings on Facebook and Instagram, and follow US Equestrian on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (Twitter). Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.

Annie and Diarmuid sit down with Jonathan Elliot, the force behind Aspen Farms Horse Trials, one of the most beloved stops in the US Equestrian Open Series. From its cross-country roots in Florida to its current home in Washington, Aspen’s story is a tale of family, community, and the enduring power of horses to shape lives. Jonathan opens up about the show’s early days, the legacy of his horse Aspen, and why champagne and oysters have become part of the tradition.

• The cross-country journey: From Florida farmland to a thriving venue in Washington State
• Aspen, the horse: The one who started it all — traded on a napkin, competed at Kentucky, and helped name the show
• Why Aspen Farms is a full family affair, from birthday wishlists to timing cross-country
• The leap to four-star status and why rider trust made it possible
• Community, coffee, and calmness: What makes the Aspen experience feel so special
• How a dinner turned into free champagne and oysters for everyone at the show
• Why creating atmosphere, access, and welcome matter just as much as competition

• Jonathon Elliot event rider, selector, and longtime organizer of Aspen Farms Horse Trials

• Annie Bishop
• Diarmuid Byrne

📲 Stay Connected For the most up-to-date series calendar and latest standings, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at usequestrianopen.org. Engage with us on Instagram and Facebook — and use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.

Diarmuid and Annie are joined by Noah Rattner - a key figure in the Series and the host of this weekend’s DevenWood qualifier. From honoring family legacy to growing a destination event in the Pacific Northwest, this episode highlights what makes this stop so meaningful.

📌 Episode Highlights

• Honoring the legacy of Ginny Rattner
• Building the DevenWood event into a true destination
• What makes the Pacific Northwest dressage scene unique
• Inside prep for this weekend’s competition
• How the Series supports riders, venues, and the future of the sport
• Favorite moments from the qualifiers so far
• What to watch for this weekend

👤 Guest Info

Noah Ratner – Host of the DevenWood Open qualifier and son of Ginny Rattner, whose vision shaped one of Oregon’s most beloved dressage venues

🎙️ Hosted by:

Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne

Jessica Phoenix joins the US Equestrian Open Podcast for a conversation full of heart, resilience, and Olympic-level ambition. From juggling international travel and family life to chasing big dreams with a fiery Grand Prix mare, Jess takes us inside a season that’s shaping up to be one of her most exciting yet.

📌 Episode Highlights:

• Competing at the top while raising a future star -Jordan & Pavarotti

• What it means to have Freedom GS peaking at just the right time

• How show jumping, eventing, and parenting all fit into one day

• The full-circle moment of getting to Aachen

• What keeps her chasing more after over 500 international runs

Guest Info: Jessica Phoenix is one of Canada’s most decorated eventers with Olympic, World, and Pan Am appearances. Known for her grit, poise, and unforgettable partnership with Pavarotti, Jess is currently second in the US Equestrian Open standings and heading into the summer with big goals — including Aachen, and Morven Park for the US Equestrian Open of Eventing Final.

📲 Stay Connected For the most up-to-date series calendar and latest standings, visit the official US Equestrian Open Series hub at usequestrianopen.org. Engage with us on Instagram and Facebook — and use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation.