Get ready to enjoy equestrian sports at their finest in sunny Southern California! While were still waiting on formal approval from the City of Los Angeles and the IOC to host equestrian at Galway Downs, about 85 miles south of LA in Temecula, the venue has been named as the proposed staging site for the 2028 Olympics by the LA28 committee. This week as the Olympic flag made its way from Paris to Los Angeles in ceremonial fashion, local NBC reporters stopped by to get a preview of the 242-acre Galway Downs and what it has to offer its incoming Olympians and spectators.Galway Downs is, of course, not the sole attraction factor for Temecula, which also boasts a robust wine tourism culture and is also located within an hour or so of the beach. Photo by Tina Fitch Photography.We dont yet know exactly how equestrian will exist in LA. Well have more on what we know about these sports in the next Olympics coming your way soon, but for now you can catch up via some previous news articles shared here on EN:LA28 Publishes Venue Updates for OlympicsEquestrian Sport Confirmed in Initial Program For Los Angeles 2028 Olympic GamesRevised Eventing Format Submitted to IOC for LA 2028 ConsiderationEventing at LA Olympics Unconfirmed; Subject to Format Change

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As were all gearing up for competition season, we tend to take a little time to set goals and reflect on our victories from the previous season, the

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Tilly Berendt (@tillyberendt)If, like me, youre still not quite over the Olympics, then may I suggest you go and take a look at our own Tilly Berendts Instagram grid, where she has been sharing SO many of the photographs she took whilst over in Paris, including some that almost never saw the light of day, like this one.Make sure to read the captions below each photograph, too, as they often provide a little background on the shot, a tribute to the horses and riders, or even just an affecting dissection of the Olympic journey and what it takes to get there. And if youre missing your daily Olympic fix of everyones favourite Frenchman, Karim Laghouag, then this should sort you out on that front too. U.S. Weekend PreviewApplewood Farm YEH & Mini Event (Califon, NJ) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] Bromont CCI-S Horse Trials (Bromont, Quebec) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring]Caber Farm H.T. (Onalaska, WA) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]Full Gallop Farm August HT (Aiken, SC) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring]Genesee Valley Riding & Driving Club H.T. (Pending USEF Approval) (Geneseo, NY) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring]Hunters Run H.T. (Metamora, MI) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring]Ocala Summer H.T. II (Ocala, FL) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] The Event at Archer (Cheyenne, WY) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]Waredaca Farm H.T. (Laytonsville, MD) [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Volunteer] [Scoring]UK International EventsFrickley Park International and Regional Championships (South Yorkshire) [Info] [Entries] [Scoring]European International EventsFEI Nations Cup (Arville, Belgium) [Website] [Entries] [Scoring]Friday News and ReadingAnother chance to relive the Paris memories, this time in audio form. The marvellous EquiRatings Eventing podcast have clipped up the best bits of all of their Paris podcasts, to create a delightful montage of the whole weekend. One to enjoy now, and perhaps in the long, dark, event-less winter days to come. Another super sterling great podcast; I cant quite fathom why I havent shared this before now! But, here we are, all good things come to those who wait and all that. Anyway, wrap your ears around this weeks Eventing Weekly Podcast with special guest Alice Casburn, for an hour of lighthearted eventing chat. If you enjoy this one, then why not delve into their previous episodes too? For two none eventing guys the hosts, Mitch and Brayden are husbands of Kiwi eventers, Ginny Thomasen and Sam Lissington they manage to get some great guests, not least of all Noor Slaoui, form last weeks episode. Always fun, and sure to bring a smile to your face!More Paris content! I promise I will stop soon.maybe. But seriously, this is a really fascinating insight into a side of the Olympics that doesnt really get that much coverage the role of the vets and farriers. With added perspective from this years FEI foreign veterinary delegate, Emily Sandler-Burtness from Coast Equine Veterinary Services in California, this offers a further look at all the behind the scenes action from a veterinary point of view including the trot up and hold box procedure. The level of organisation is mind blowing, and really hammers home just how much planning goes into every single aspect of an Olympics, in order to pull it all off so seamlessly, as Paris most certainly did.Ever wondered what a Gold Medal winning horse gets up to when the cameras stop rolling? Well wonder no more, as FEI Global visited Michael Jung and Chipmunk at home in Germany, where he reflected on their partnership and expressed his gratitude to his amazing Championship horse: Without horses, we riders are nothing. Cheers to that, Michi!Another Paris retrospective, this time from Australian eventing legend Heath Ryan. In the latest edition of his column, Ryans Rave, Heath takes a look at the dressage and eventing competitions as a whole, before zooming in a little closer on the Australian teams performance, and how the current High Performance programme has affected their Championship results since the Sydney Olympics in 2000. Heath is certainly not backwards in coming forwards with his opinions on how the High Performance programme in Australia and Equestrian Australia as a whole needs to have a rethink and a restructure before the next Championships, and certainly before the Brisbane Olympics in 2032, in order for their teams to improve on their recent results. An unashamedly honest analysis, it will certainly be interesting to see what happens next in terms of the Australian Teams management and training programmes. Moving on now, to Burghley! Hands down one of my favourite UK events, and it is rapidly approaching! As such, it is all hands on deck, and they have been sharing a sneaky peek of the first week of the course build over on their social media channels. Derek di Grazia is once again setting the challenge keep your eyes peeled on Burghley TV for the upcoming course preview a written version of which will also be provided here on Eventing Nation by the afore mentioned Tilly Berendt. At last, a tonic for that Olympic hangoverWhat are you doing with your spare time when the eventing season is over? If youre anything like recently crowned British National Champion, Emily King, youll be lacing up your running shoes and doing a marathon.Or not.! If you cant quite summon the energy for such things (I mean, we have just had an Olympics, that takes time to recover from, right?!) then why not sponsor Emily instead? Shes running for the incredible British Eventing Support Trust, who provide support for riders at all levels whammy be struggling in some way. A brilliant cause, lets help make Emilys energetic efforts worthwhile!And finally, before you skip off into the sunset to enjoy your weekends and whatever equestrian adventures lay in store Do you know anyone that may have future Olympic podium potential? Or perhaps you may be a prospective medal contender yourself. Either way, time is running out for you or your talented family member/friend/neighbour to apply for the British Equestrian World Class Performance Programme. Applications close on 30th August, so act fast! Who knows, it could be the start of another own Olympic journey only four years to go to LA, after all!Sponsor CornerEntries are open for Stable Views Oktoberfest! Compete among the best at one of the premiere events of the fall season. With divisions including everything from Beginner Novice to CCI4*-S, theres something for everyone at Stable View. Spend the first full weekend of fall galloping through Stable Views open fields and forests. Theres no better way to start the second half of your season. Enter now.Allison Springer and No May Moon. Photo by Shelby Allen.Weekend WatchingQuick fire questions are always fun and even more so when theyre with a Burghley winner! View this post on InstagramA post shared by Defender Burghley Horse Trials (@burghleyhorsetrials)

An ever-young veteran and a fantastic Fell were among the winners securing a coveted place in the Your Horse Live finals at the fourth SEIB Search for a Star and SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse qualifiers of the 2024 season. Taking place at Arena UK, courtesy of Equifest, the show on 1 August attracted more than 200 competitors across the 19 classes, offering qualification for both Your Horse Live and Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).Credit: Jenny VinerFell pony Greenholme Jake and Liam Wrobel, 14, were the first winners of the day in the Working Pony class, and wen on to also take the Your Horse Live qualifying Mountain and Moorland class.Our winner had lovely, correct conformation and there was no hesitation when jumping, said judge Alan Mickleburgh.Credit: Jordan BrookingA huge Working Horse class went to Search for a Star first timers, Karen Tennent and Robin Vesteys mare, Harley.We came for a lovely day out, I would have been happy with her going well and maybe a rosette, but to havewon is just amazing, said Karen. Weve had Harley for a year, previously she was hunting in the Welsh mountains. We bought her to hunt which is her main job. The showing is some extra entertainment for her!Credit: Jenny VinerJessica Buxton won the Show Hunter class with Laura Chisholms gelding, Rodney.Im so proud of Rodney, he is like a big Labrador, Jessica said. This is our first big show and we came for the experience. The ride judge, Jordan Cook said he really liked him.Credit: Jenny VinerIn the Riding Horse Hack class, the win went to solicitor, Hannah Pedley and her own mare, Kilbrickens Princess.Im really pleased, she felt great in the ring it was like she knew she should really perform today, said Hannah. She was relaxed and lovely for the judge.The Show and Maxi Cob class as won by Carl Phillips-Davies and Corrine Knoxs, Away With The Greys. Sadly, following their win this combination realised they are ineligible for Search for a Star so they withdrew from the series.I wanted to thank everyone at SEIB Search for a Star for the support while entering the competition this week, said Corrine.Credit: Jenny VinerRebecca Davies and her own bay gelding, Top Gun, took runner-up spot in the Cobs.Otto is just ace, she said. I bred him myself and we now have a full brother on the way. This is our first year showing and a friend said we should definitely give Search for a Star a go.Credit: Jenny VinerCollette McGoldricks Mumford won a large and competitive SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse qualifier. This is the third time Mumford has qualified for HOYS in this class.He is so great, my sister is keen to qualify him in the Riding Horse class as well, said Collette. Hes still only 11-years-old and feeling as well as ever.Credit: Jenny VinerIn the Traditional Cob HOYS Search for a Star qualifier, Fordfield Blue and Jack Gratton from Lincolnshire took top spot.Im so pleased, he really felt like he enjoyed it today, Jack said. Ive had him for four years now and we concentrate on showing. Weve got three other traditionals now at home as well. Hes won all the local shows and loves his hacking and jumping. The horses are very much my hobby and I work as a manager at McDonalds.Credit: Jenny VinerThe one SEIB Search for a Star class open to all riders and not restricted to amateurs, the Open Ridden Veteran, was won by Charlotte Bunting and her own traditional cob gelding, Call the Shots.He was amazing in there today he still thinks hes a five-year-old, Charlotte said of the 19-year-old. We just do veteran classes now and we plan to give dressage a go as well. Ive owned him for 14 years. I did sell him for two years but then he came back, he simply enjoys everything, jumping, pleasure rides and generally being the centre of attention.The SEIB Search for a Star Pony Club qualifying classes saw the first ever Search for a Star Train and Shine Pony Club Masterclass, carried out by former Pony Club examiner and show pony producer, Dena King. The Masterclass gave the opportunity for those children entered in Pony Club Search for a Star at Arena UK to come forward before their classes and have a run through of the go-round and then carry out a trial show with instruction and pointers from Dena before their class.Credit: Jenny VinerIn the Lead Rein class, seven-year-old Jessica Stancliffe took the top spot with her Welsh Section A pony, Synod Miss Sapphire. Jessica is a member of the Oxenholme Branch of the Pony Club.I love cantering on Sapphire and we are going to Pony Club camp next week, said Jessica.Credit: Jenny VinerThe First Ridden went to Ianna Grant and Thistledown Edison. This pair are members of the Ross-Shire Pony Club and travelled down from the North of Scotland for Search for a Star and Equifest. Nine-year-old Ianna is no stranger to Search for a Star, she and Edison won theLead-Rein championship in 2023 and are now in their first season off the lead rein.They are off the lead-rein in the ring this year, said her mother, Charlotte. The 11 hour journey to Arena UK is ourSummer tour!Credit: Jenny VinerJessica Carter and Rebecca Carters Appaloosa pony, Target (Henry), took top spot in the Open Pony Club class. Jessica is in the Grove Pony Club.My favourite part about today is spending time with Henry, said Jessica. He is just amazing, we got held up by an accident and only got here five minutes before the class. We compete mainly in showing although we had a really tough decision between Pony Club camp and Search for a Star and Equifest this week.Credit: Jenny VinerThe Search for a Star In-Hand Plaited Horse and Hogged Show Cob went to Charlotte Liley and her own Irish Draught, Doyley Wood.We came second in this class at Vale View last month and took away what the judge said before coming back today, said Charlotte. I had a retired racehorse before him and was on the lookout for something with morebone.Credit: Jenny VinerIn the In-Hand Plaited Pony class, Kathryn Masters four-year-old part-bred Arab, Broadtown Make a Wish (Paris) took first place with handler, Charlotte Langridge.My daughter Emily is fourteen and Paris will be the next size up for her, said Kathryn. We are using the In-Hand classes as a grounding for Paris, to get out and about and see the world. Then hopefully Emily will compete in 14.2 show pony classes and part-bred Arabs with her.Kimberley Turner and her own traditional cob gelding, Bromley Cask of Magners won the In-Hand Native and Traditional class.Credit: Jenny VinerIn the In-Hand amateur veteran class, Sammy Oates with Janet Oates, Welsh Section B pony, Newtonhall Casanova took top spot.Weve owned him since he was a yearling, we went on a stud visit, saw his head over the door and fell inlove, said Sammy. We broke him in but he can be quite sharp. He is now 19-years-old, he came 8th at the RoyalInternational and qualified for London Horse Show in 2022.He is mainly a field and travel companion, but also as a three-year-old won the Riding Pony class at the Royal Welsh show.The In-Hand Mountain and Moorland class went to Rebecca Jayne Rawlinson-Allen and her Fell pony, Nabside Gracie.She is a superstar and loves her showing, said Rebecca Jayne. We havent done all that much, I bought her as a three-year-old in lockdown and she had a filly foal who I still have in 2022. Gracie was bred on the fells in Cumbria, the in-hsnd showing weve done has been a real stepping-stone and now having qualified in the in-hand Search for a Star class, it would be great to have a go at the ridden one next year.CCredit: Jenny VinerThe British Riding Clubs (BRC) Search for a Star class also took place at Arena UK. It was won by Kate Smith and her Connemara gelding, Dream Shadow. Kate and Orea are members of the North Mimms Riding Club.I like showing and Oreo likes jumping so we do a bit of both, said Kate. We went jumping at Wales and West recently and got a clear round and we compete both locally and on Riding Club teams. Today is an extra special day for Oreo as its his birthday hes 17 today!Judges at Arena UK included Alan Mickleburgh, Magnus Nicholson, Kate Nicholson, Dena King and Terry Chalmers, as well as longstanding series judges, Jordan Cook and Louise Gaunt. Search for a Star stewards included John Foster, Alex Osborn, Craig McLelland, Emma Rodman and Dave Tabern.Click here to find out about up-and-coming qualifiers for the Search for a Star series.Lead image by Jordan BrookingFurther readingFeeding a competition horse: diet advice for achieving good performance and good coat shinePractice makes perfect: four flatwork exercises using straight linesSigns a horse is lacking suppleness, plus exercises to improve itThe post A thriving ex-racehorse, flying Fell and spritely veteran wow Search for a Star judges appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Point Details Importance of Safety Horseback riding is a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in the US, with 50,000 to 100,000 riders experiencing TBIs yearly. What is MIPS? MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) is a patented technology developed by MIPS AB designed to reduce brain injury risk by mimicking the brain's natural movement during a crash. How Does MIPS Work? MIPS helmets have a thin, flexible layer integrated into the padding, allowing slight helmet movement to reduce rotational force and brain injury during impacts. Effectiveness A study by the Journal of Neurosurgery found that MIPS helmets reduced the risk of brain injury by 54% compared to traditional helmets. Benefits of MIPS MIPS helmets offer enhanced protection, comfort, breathability, and a lightweight design, making them ideal for long hours of riding. Popular Brands Brands like Charles Owen, Samshield, and KASK incorporate MIPS technology into their helmets, known for combining safety with style and comfort. Essential Accessories Accessories like riding socks, horse treats, vitamins, and supplements contribute to a rider's overall safety and performance. Maintaining Your Helmet Regular cleaning, inspecting for damage, proper storage, and timely replacement (every 3-5 years or after significant impacts) are crucial for helmet maintenance. Future of Helmet Technology Innovations such as virtual reality training and sensor-equipped helmets are expected to enhance rider safety and performance further. Rider Testimonials Riders praise MIPS helmets for their added safety and comfort, providing peace of mind during rides. Why Equestrian Riders are Turning to MIPS Technology for Helmet SafetyAs an equestrian rider, safety is always top of mind. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a casual trail rider, the risk of head injury is ever-present. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), horseback riding is one of the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in the United States, with an estimated 50,000 to 100,000 riders experiencing a TBI each year.What is MIPS?MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) is a patented technology developed by the Swedish company, MIPS AB. It's designed to reduce the risk of brain injury by mimicking the brain's natural movement during a crash. Traditional helmets are designed to absorb impact by spreading the force of the crash across the surface of the helmet. However, this can lead to a phenomenon known as "rotation" where the helmet rotates on the head, causing the brain to move inside the skull and increasing the risk of injury. MIPS technology, on the other hand, is designed to absorb and distribute the force of the crash in multiple directions, reducing the risk of rotation and subsequent brain injury. This is achieved through a thin, flexible layer of material that's integrated into the helmet's padding.How Does MIPS Work?When a rider falls off a horse, the helmet is designed to absorb the impact of the crash. The MIPS layer works by allowing the helmet to move slightly in response to the impact, mimicking the brain's natural movement. This helps to reduce the risk of rotation and subsequent brain injury.But how effective is MIPS? According to a study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery, helmets equipped with MIPS technology reduced the risk of brain injury by 54% compared to traditional helmets.Benefits of MIPS TechnologyThe use of MIPS technology in equestrian helmets provides several key benefits: Enhanced Protection: Significantly reduces the risk of brain injury by absorbing impact in multiple directions. Comfort and Breathability: MIPS helmets are designed to be more comfortable and breathable, making them ideal for long hours in the saddle. Lightweight Design: Despite the added layer, MIPS helmets remain lightweight, making them a practical choice for everyday use.Why Equestrian Riders are Turning to MIPSEquestrian riders are increasingly turning to MIPS technology due to its proven effectiveness and the stark statistics surrounding equestrian-related TBIs. According to the CDC, TBIs are a leading cause of death and disability among horseback riders. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science found that 75% of horseback riding-related TBIs were caused by falls from horses. By using a helmet with MIPS technology, equestrian riders can significantly reduce their risk of brain injury. Additionally, MIPS helmets are designed to be more comfortable and breathable than traditional helmets, making them a popular choice among riders who spend long hours in the saddle.A Closer Look at MIPS HelmetsThere are several popular brands that incorporate MIPS technology into their helmets. These brands are known for their commitment to safety and innovation in equestrian sports: Charles Owen: Offers a range of MIPS-equipped helmets for different riding disciplines. Samshield: Known for their elegant designs and superior ventilation, coupled with MIPS technology. KASK: Combines Italian craftsmanship with advanced safety features like MIPS.Other Essential Riding EquipmentWhile helmets are a critical part of riding safety, other equipment is equally important. Jodhpurs, riding boots, gloves, and other accessories contribute to a rider's overall safety and performance.Essential Accessories Riding Socks: Comfortable and durable, designed for long hours in boots. Horse Treats and Gifts: Perfect for rewarding your equine friend after a great ride. Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements: Ensure your horse remains healthy and strong. Maintaining Your HelmetTo ensure your MIPS helmet provides maximum protection, its crucial to maintain it properly. Here are some maintenance tips: Regular Cleaning: Clean the helmet using mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the MIPS layer. Inspect for Damage: Regularly inspect your helmet for cracks or dents after falls or impacts. Storage: Store your helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation of materials. Replacement: Replace your helmet every 3-5 years, or immediately after any significant impact, even if no visible damage is present.Comfort and StyleAside from safety, a well-fitted helmet can enhance your riding experience. Modern MIPS helmets come in various styles and sizes, ensuring that every rider can find a comfortable and stylish option.The Future of Equestrian Helmet TechnologyThe adoption of MIPS technology in equestrian helmets is just the beginning. As research and technology advance, we can expect even greater innovations in helmet design. Virtual reality training and sensor-equipped helmets are already on the horizon, promising to further enhance rider safety and performance. What Riders Are Saying About MIPSThe equestrian community has embraced MIPS technology with open arms. Riders across disciplines have praised the added layer of safety and comfort that MIPS helmets provide. Testimonials from professional riders and everyday enthusiasts alike have highlighted the peace of mind that comes with wearing a MIPS-equipped helmet.ConclusionAs an equestrian rider, safety should always be your top priority. With the risk of head injury ever-present, it's essential to take every precaution to minimize the risk of brain injury. MIPS technology is a game-changer in the world of equestrian safety, offering a revolutionary solution to traditional helmet design.Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a casual trail rider, incorporating MIPS technology into your helmet can make all the difference in the event of a crash. So why wait? Make the switch to MIPS today and ride with confidence, knowing that you're protected by the latest technology in helmet safety.Explore MoreDiscover a range of high-quality equestrian equipment and apparel to complement your MIPS helmet: Stable Rugs - Keep your horse comfortable and protected in the stable. Turnout Rugs - Ideal for outdoor protection in various weather conditions. Fly Protection - Essential for keeping pests away during rides.For more information and to browse our full collection, visit Just Horse Riders today.

Isabell Werth (GER), new number 1 of the FEI Dressage World Ranking – Athletes, competing at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with Wendy de Fontaine. FEI / Benjamin Clark The FEI oversees around 70 Rankings and Standings across all the disciplines, from World Rankings calculated on a monthly basis for Athletes, Horses and/or Combinations, to league, team and regional based standings for...