Simon Grieve has been very honest about his confidence struggles in recent years and this morning at Mars Badminton Horse Trials was no different, with the 44-year-old confessing his preparation included being hypnotised.The British rider hasnt contested the Gloucestershire five-star since 2019, but arrives with a confident 18th placing at last years Defender Burghley under his belt.Its such a privilege to be able to come here and compete. I know there are a lot of people that would love to be here riding, and so Im feeling very lucky. And to be honest, two years ago I never thought Id be coming back here, so its really lovely to be back.Simon explained that his absence was due to a lack of horsepower, as well as struggling with nerves. At Burghley last year, he explained how the chimp paradox has helped him.I thought Id come to the end of my little line of competing at a higher level, because I I was getting too nervous to do it. It just goes to show that mindset is such an important thing, he said. I was even hypnotised the other day I said [to the hypnotist after] I think Ive had a speech and she said, Yeah, you did for about 50 minutes, but its okay I was talking to your subconscious. We were in the lorry and when I came out the girls were like, we could hear you clucking like a chicken whats going on?!Its big and scarySimon piloted Autograf to a dressage score of 36.4 this morning.Bearing in mind hes green at this level and I find dressage difficult, but he moves beautifully and hes a fabulous little horse a really great mover. So I need to catch up with him, said Simon.The atmosphere was great. There was a bit of clapping, a bit cheering, which is really nice. Its always a cauldron of nerves in there, but I thought he got on with it really well.He described the Eric Winter-designed cross-country course as being big, bold and scary but Id be disappointed if it wasnt.I think the lake is serious. I just cant ever get away from the Vicarage Vee and the water at the top as well is technical. Its all the way around, and its one big fence after another and another it makes it such a challenge.Main image by Tim WilkinsonRelated contentTop riders battle with nerves, too! How one Burghley rider overcame a confidence lossHow to watch BadmintonMare, 16, makes Badminton debut after recovering from tendon injuryThe post I was hypnotised: Simon Grieve combats confidence wobble to return to Badminton after six year absence appeared first on Your Horse.

David Doels Mars Badminton ride, Ferro Point, is back competing at the top level after recovering from a tendon injury she sustained at Burghley in 2023.Consequently the 16-year-old mare arrived here light on competition runs due to David and her owner, Christine Lees, being cautious about the ground she runs on.Its one of the tricky ones shes a slightly older horse and shes come back from injury. Her owner loves the five-stars and didnt really want to go back to Pau, so we targeted Badminton, said David, who owns the ice-cream company Lacock Dairy.She missed the 2024 season and ran around a few four-stars last year, but then the ground got a bit firm for her and she didnt go cross-country again. We put her away and said well bring her out a little bit earlier [this year] to give her a longer, slower build up to this week.Shes not done as much galloping as she would have done in the past, but shes a real blood little mare, and were here to have a nice time. If she comes back with 20 time-faults, its really not going to be the end of the world. Were just grateful that shes still going.Shes like a sewing machineDavid has been campaigning this mare for 10 years and they have three five-star completions under their belts one at Luhmuhlen in 2023, where they finished 13th, and two at Pau in 2022 and 2020.Although there were a few tricky moments in the canter work, David said he is chuffed with the work the mare produced in the dressage test at Badminton, considering that this is the first time she has been in an environment of this scale for nearly three years.Shes like a little sewing machine; shes not really built to move and to do dressage and when I picked up canter she just shoved her head in the air, she said.There wasnt a lot else I could really do for about the first five or six movements in canter, and then she settled back down again.But you know, theyre horses and theyve got their own brains. We dont always know what theyre thinking. Yes, its a bit of a bugger, but shes still in the competition and she loves her jumping. Shell be looking forward to going out there and going galloping round on Saturday instead.Main image by Tim WilkinsonThe post Mare, 16, makes Badminton debut after recovering from tendon injury appeared first on Your Horse.

He can be sharp and spooky and just as you think youre getting somewhere, suddenly youre halfway across the school facing the other direction!These were the words of British rider Tom Jackson after his dressage test at Mars Badminton Horse Trials aboard United 36, who held the lead when the first phase paused for a break on day one.Tom said the 10-year-old gelding, who is owned by Mike Stenning, can be sharp and spooky, and so he is very happy with the work he produced between the white boards.I was really pleased with how he coped in there, because its a lot for any horse, especially one thats not the most experienced.Hes only 10 and its his first five star. Hes quite a spooky horse so to go in and do a solid test like that is really pleasing, said Tom. Hopefully theres plenty of time to build on that in the next few years.His brain is difficultA lot of riders choose to take horses abroad for their first five-star either Luhmuhlen in Germany and Pau in France but Tom felt confident Badminton is the place for United 36 to make his top-level debut.Hes always been and felt a very good cross-country horse. Sometimes the ground can be variable at Luhmuhlen and wouldnt necessarily suit this horse, so we thought, why not give it a crack?Hes so talented. Hes probably one of the most talented horses Ive sat on in terms of his athleticism and his ability, but his brain is quite difficult.Main image by Tim WilkinsonThe post Sharp and spooky horse contesting first five-star pulls off super test appeared first on Your Horse.

For Sophie Sadler, completing her cross-country round in the 2026 BE90 LeMieux Badminton Grassroots Championship yesterday (6 May) was less about results and more about taking a step forward in rebuilding her confidence.Weve had a bit of a rocky start to the season, says Sophie, who is grooming for Alex Bragg at in the five-star competition at Badminton this week. With the showjumping and my confidence everything, really. My confidence just hasnt been great. Sophie was competing her own 16-year-old Joes High Flyer. They added eight faults in the showjumping and 7.6 cross-country time-faults to a very competitive 29.4 dressage to finish in 65th place from 95 starters, which is no mean feat considering her confidence wobbles in the run up to this event. She purchased Joe directly from his breeder seven years ago and Sophie, who originally hails from Yorkshire, has evented him ever since. Hes the best horse ever, she says. But weve had a couple of falls. Since then, the focus has shifted away from chasing results and towards regaining confidence in the saddle. The pair has previously competed at novice level, but this season has been about taking the pressure off and working back up to enjoying the sport again. Joe has played a central role in that process.Hes been amazing to help me get it back, states Sophie.That approach paid off on cross-country, where Sophie says she was able to relax and enjoy herself again.Im so happy, because I had fun, and I havent had fun in a long time across country. Its just the best feeling going round that cross-country course. Crossing the finish line was a particularly significant moment.Just to finish it feels amazing. Im just happy to finish with a smile on my face.Related contentIt means the world: vineyard owner takes top honours in BE100 Badminton Grassroots ChampionshipA great track to get your teeth into: walk the 2026 Badminton Grassroots cross-country course with top event rider, Kitty KingHow to watch Mars Badminton Horse Trials this weekRos Canters grid exercise to slow a keen or strong horse when youre jumpingFive gears a confident cross-country horse needs to haveDressage judges explain how to improve your test scoreThe post I havent had fun for a while, but that cross-country round was the best feeling: Badminton Grassroots competitor who is grooming for a rider in the five-star recounts emotional completion appeared first on Your Horse.

When a horse is bought through an online auction, there are always unknowns. For one amateur rider balancing competition with a full-time job as a vet, those unknowns have turned into a success story. Tasha Seely, who works as an equine vet in the Cotswolds, was competing in the LeMieux BE90 Badminton Grassroots championship class with her own nine-year-old Rudolph Dieu Darco, or Rudolph as he is know at home, yesterday (6 May). They finished on their 34.1 dressage in 22nd place in highly competitive field of 95 starters. Speaking of her history with Rudolph, Tasha says: We were underbidders for him as a three-year-old, and then again as a four-year-old, she explains. The first time he wasnt paid for, so they put him back on and we ended up getting a good deal for him. He was sourced from Belgium via a dealer based in Holland. He looks very like a really nice three-star horse we used to have, says Tasha, who has previously competed up to intermediate several years ago.Im still not sold on whether he wants to be an event horse or not he could still be a pure showjumper, and for a horse we werent initially that sure about, hes turned out pretty well! A horse with plenty of characterSpeaking of Rudolphs character, Tasha says: Hes got the most wicked sense of humour. If a horse was to have ADHD, he definitely would. He thinks everythings funny. He annoys everyone, but hes not nasty.That attitude means he is not always straightforward to ride, particularly while competing.He makes me work so hard out there, says Tasha.Even so, his ability has carried him through the levels so far, and his results suggest there is more to come if he continues to develop.Fitting horses around a full-time careerTasha currently manages three horses alongside her workload, fitting riding in around long working hours.I ride very early in the mornings, and I have a very understanding other half, she explains. Support at home has been key, and trips to events such as Blair in Scotland and Bicton in Devon have effectively served as holidays. Tasha says that her partner, who previously rode as a jockey is very understanding. A return to eventingTasha explains that she took a break from eventing for four years prior to acquiring Rudolph. Id given up eventing because I wasnt very good at showjumping, she says. Cost was also a factor: Its too expensive to go and have four fences down and not be placed, she says.Instead, Tasha focused on showjumping for a period before deciding to come back.You end up getting the bug again, she says.Im really excited to be back. Related contentIt means the world: vineyard owner takes top honours in BE100 Badminton Grassroots Championship Just amazing and I produced him from scratch: primary school teacher victorious in BE90 Badminton Grassroots ChampionshipA great track to get your teeth into: walk the 2026 Badminton Grassroots cross-country course with top event rider, Kitty KingHow to watch Mars Badminton Horse Trials this weekRos Canters grid exercise to slow a keen or strong horse when youre jumpingThe post Hes got a wicked sense of humour: vet impresses at Badminton Grassroots Championships appeared first on Your Horse.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary has received some welcome support from Arsenal Football Club, who has handed over a bundle of socks to help equines in need.The Gunners, who celebrated winning the Premier League with a victory parade drawing hundreds of thousands of fans in London on Sunday (31 May), reached out to the charity late last year after hearing the garments might be useful.This was one of the more unusual donations weve been offered here at Redwings, but professional football socks, which these days are often footless by design, can be invaluable theyre a game changer you might say! said Nicola Knight, Redwings Head of Communications and Campaigns.The socks are being used at our Horse Hospital in Norfolk, for anything from protecting our rescued residents sensitive legs from flies, to holding their vet bandages in place, protecting them from headcollar rubs and even holding back the hair on their legs while they get their feet trimmed. Our donkeys at Redwings Caldecott are using them for enrichment activities too.They are a fantastic bit of kit and were so pleased that Arsenal reached out to us. This inspired donation has been very well received.Michael Lloyd, Arsenal FCs Operational Sustainability Manager, came up with the idea of donating the players unwanted socks and contacted Redwings. Were always looking for ways to reduce waste and make a positive impact through the actions we take as a club, and its great we can work together to repurpose our old kit towards the care and wellbeing of animals, he said.Redwings is responsible for more than 1,500 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules, with over 1,000 in their daily care. Those looking to find out more, rehome an equine, or make a donation can visitredwings.org.ukImages by Redwings Horse SanctuaryMore from Your HorseHow to tell if a horse is happy: behaviourist reveals 13 key signsTwo things you can do now to help you beat show day nervesWould your horse pass the carrot test? Experts explain how to keep teeth healthy5 things to bear in mind to achieve your solo hacking goals with a young or new horse or following a breakThe post Arsenal socks a game changer for horses and donkeys at Redwings appeared first on Your Horse.

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) have circulated additional and updated documentation on the safe use and importation of equine germinal products, including semen, oocytes and embryos.The documents outline the key requirements that must be followed by breeders, veterinarians and germinal product importers to protect Irelands equine health status. Ireland remains free from serious diseases such as Equine Infectious Anaemia (EIA), Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) and Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM), which can be introduced or transmitted through infected germinal products if the appropriate procedures are not followed.All germinal products imported into Ireland must be accompanied by the appropriate official health certification and must originate from approved collection and storage facilities. Importers are required to be registered on TRACES, and all documentation must be retained for a minimum of three years. In addition, all paperwork should be checked by a veterinary practitioner prior to use, and any uncertified or questionable products should not be used.Horse Sport Ireland is encouraging all stakeholders to familiarise themselves with these requirements and to ensure full compliance, non-compliant imports pose a significant risk to equine health, welfare and trade.NOTICE REGARDING USE OF ARTIFICAL INSEMINATION OF EQUINES IN IRELANDINFORMATION NOTE: IMPORTATION OF EQUINE GERMINAL PRODUCTS INTO THE REPUBLIC OF IRELANDFurther practical guidance for breeders is available on the Horse Sport Ireland Preparing to Breed webpage.The post Updated Guidance Issued on Importation and Safe use of Equine Germinal Products appeared first on .

Denis Lynch & Vistogrand competing at St. Gallen in 2024.Horse Sport Ireland is delighted to announce the Irish Show Jumping team selected to compete in the prestigious CSIO5* Range Rover Nations Cup of Switzerlandin St. Gallen, taking place on Friday, 5thJuly.The Irish team has been chosen by Horse Sport Ireland High Performance Jumping Manager Jessica Krten. The team brings together a strong combination of experience and proven emerging talent.Kurten has selected Michael Duffy, Denis Lynch, Mark McAuley, Niamh McEvoy and David Simpson.Kurten looks forward to the competition adding:Taking on strong opposition in St. Gallen this weekend will be a team mixed with great experience and up-and-coming stars. It will be exciting to see. How these younger horses fair in their first team competition at this levelSt. Gallen is one of the most historic and challenging Nations Cup venues on the international calendar, and the Irish quartet are aiming to deliver a strong performance against world-class opposition.The post Irish Team Named for St. Gallen CSIO5* Range Rover Nations Cup of Switzerland appeared first on .

In a proud joint salute to Americas 250th anniversary, Tribute Equine Nutrition and the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) today announced a national partnership to support military veterans and active-duty personnel. Throughout the summer of 2026, a portion of the proceeds from every Tribute product purchased will be donated directly to the PATH International Equine Services for Heroes initiative.Our nations 250-year story of freedom is built upon the courage and sacrifice of our military service members, said Kat Riggs at Tribute Equine Nutrition. At Tribute, we are deeply honored to celebrate this landmark anniversary by giving back to our nations heroes. By partnering with PATH Intl., we can directly support healing, strength, and community for veterans through the profound bond between people and horses. We look forward to rallying our network of dealers and social media communities to champion this important cause.To anchor the initiative, Tribute is releasing a special, festive summer product designed for horse owners who want to celebrate with a purpose. The limited-edition Tribute Wholesome Blends Patriotic Horse Treats feature red, white, and blue sprinkles. The treats are 100% soy-free and safely made in Tributes ionophore-free manufacturing facilities.Funds raised from the sale of every Tribute product will support the PATH International Equine Services for Heroes program. This crucial initiative assists military personnel and veterans of any age, branch, or conflict era. Through PATH Intl. Member Centers and credentialed professionals, veterans participate in mounted and unmounted equine-assisted services, including adaptive riding, carriage driving, therapy incorporating equines and equine-assisted learning. These activities have been shown to help veterans overcome physical and post-traumatic emotional challenges, regain mobility, improve strength and coordination, and re-establish vital social ties.PATH Intl. is incredibly grateful to Tribute Equine Nutrition for choosing to honor Americas 250th anniversary by investing in the lives of our veterans, said Kevin Price, PATH Intl. CEO. Equine-assisted services provide a unique path to peace and rehabilitation for veterans navigating PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and physical limitations. This generous partnership will help expand our reach, allowing more veterans to experience the life-changing benefits that horses uniquely provide, right in their own local communities.Tribute Wholesome Blends Patriotic Horse Treats are available for a limited time at local feed retailers and online. To find a retailer or to learn more about how your purchase supports veteran services, visitwww.tributeequinenutrition.com/pages/america250. For more information about PATH International Equine Services for Heroes, please visitwww.pathintl.org/programs/veterans/.

An increase in body temperature can have severalcauses. | Adobe StockAn increase in body temperature can have several causes; fever due to infection is one of them.During infection, inflammation-associated mediators are produced, which can shift the brains set point, leading to an increase in body, or core, temperature.In horses, we can measure increases in body temperature using a rectal thermometer.Reliable alternatives are subcutaneously placed thermal chips that are measured with a reader, or nasogastric tube smart pills for continuous core temperature recording over time. However, nothing beats the rectal thermometer for its simplicity,availabilityand cost.Digital thermometers have widely replaced mercury thermometers. Digital thermometers come invarious typesand brands and are both reasonably priced and affordable. Individual baseline (rectal) temperatures can differ between horse breedsand byage. Rectal temperatures in the same horse can fluctuate, typically by less than a degree with season or ambient temperature, and by 1, up to 2, degrees during the day. Naturally, measured temperatures are higher post-exercise than at rest. For horses, a cut-off for fever of a per rectum measured temperature is conservatively set at 101.5F (or 38.6C).Not all horse owners know how to take temperatures, nor are thermometers always available. However, taking temperatures is one of the first steps if a horse appears listless, too quiet or anorexic. After the (Equid) (alpha)herpesvirus (EHV-1)Myeloencephalopathyoutbreak at show grounds in Valencia, Spain, in 2021, daily taking temperatures (and reporting) became a mandatory task for participating parties. Requested by FEI during transportation to an event, at entry, but also during competitions, made this simple task an important early alert mechanism to prevent or mitigate disease outbreaks at competitions.Recording changes in core temperatures in horses has been an intricate part of any clinical study. Our laboratory at the University of Kentucky recently concluded a live horse study with twice daily body temperature recordings. We used digital thermometers for this part of the daily clinical exams. The thermometers we used weredifferent brandsof over-the-counter thermometers. Before their use, all thermometers were calibrated in the laboratory using a water-bath test at two preset temperatures: 37.0C (98.6F) and 39.2C (102.6F).Part of this assessment is repeatability, where three consecutive readings performed in the in vitro experimental setup yieldedvery similarresults. During our experiment, we followed a strict protocol of three consecutive readings while the thermometer remained inserted in the rectum of a horse. To our great surprise, the third reading was consistently the highest of the three. Differences between the first and third measurements became wider during the fever days of individual horses.Furthermore, several of our horses are fitted with a thermal chip, and we were able to compare its readings with those from the thermometer. Our third measurement correlated best with the thermal chip reading.ConclusionsKnowing a horses body temperature is vital for its clinical assessment. While digital thermometer readings are typically easy to obtain, easy to read and have replaced mercury and glass thermometers in equine environments completely, they may need a more stringent three-times-is-the-charm approach than we previously thought.We advise anyone taking rectal temperatures in horses with digital thermometers to repeat the measurement at least once with the thermometer still inserted in the rectum. If results diverge between the first and second measurements, a third measurement isindicated.This is an excerpt fromEquine Disease Quarterly, Vol. 35, Issue 2, funded by underwriters at Lloyds, London, brokers, and their Kentucky agents. It was written by Lutz S. Goehring, DVM, MS, PhD, WrightMarkey Professor of Equine Infectious Diseasesat the University of Kentuckys Gluck Equine Research Center, in Lexington, and Maria Polo, DVM, PhD graduate student, also at the Gluck Equine Research Center.