The Go Eventing Podcast

The 2026 FEI Eventing World Championships are here, and there may be no venue in the sport that carries more weight, more history, or more atmosphere than Aachen. Whether you’re watching from the stands, following along from home, or just trying to understand why everyone in the eventing world gets a little misty-eyed when this city comes up in conversation, this episode is your complete guide to what’s at stake, what’s come before, and what to watch for this weekend.

We are in full world championship season and Sally is joined by her favorite co-conspirator — Eventing Nation’s European Correspondent and The Athletic contributor Tilly Berendt — for an unfiltered, wide-ranging conversation that covers the five star season so far, the road to the FEI Eventing World Championships at Aachen, the growing mainstream spotlight on equestrian sport, and what it will take for eventing to seize this moment.

“Where Eventing Lives” Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. This week, we're sitting down with a quietly compelling figure in eventing, whose results speak loudly, but whose philosophy speaks even louder.Elite eventing is won and lost in the details: the training decisions made months before a competition, the way a rider reads a course, the relationship built with a horse over years of patient, welfare-first work. This episode is for anyone who has ever wanted to understand what it takes to make it in the sport without funding or support, and what it actually looks like to pursue excellence in this sport with both ambition and integrity. This episode is supported by Sentinel Horse Feeds. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 🔎What’s Inside Season 2, Episode 7? Host Sally Spickard sits down with Costa Rican eventer Leonor Muñoz for a conversation that is equal parts personal journey and rallying cry for the future of the sport. Leonor has spent years working to build eventing in Costa Rica from the ground up — navigating the very real challenges of funding, infrastructure, and international access that riders in smaller nations face every day — while simultaneously forging the international connections and mentorship pathways that she believes are essential to making the sport truly global. Her story is one of community, creativity, and an unwavering belief that a small country can make a big mark on eventing. 🔥In This Episode, We Cover... 0:20 - News & Notes: Badminton, Tryon, Championships, and Upcoming Prize Funds Sally recaps our most recent 5* coverage from MARS Badminton, where Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo set a new record as the event's first-ever three-time winners. She touches on the upcoming FEI Eventing World Championships at Aachen, where we predict a close battle of the greats: Ros and Lordships Graffalo, Michael Jung and fischerChipmunk, and Laura Collett and London 52. Sally also walks us through our weekend at Tryon International — the first CCI4*-L in the US — where our fan-favorite Mia Farley managed her first 4*-L win with Invictus. Sally also introduces us to the USEF Eventing Young Riders National Championship coming up in June at the Maryland Horse Trials for the event's 20-year anniversary, which for the first time ever will see a $100,000 prize pot across its FEI divisions. MARS Bromont has also seen a prize fund increase up to $50,000 for their June event, so make sure to keep an eye out for our reports on both these events next month! Be sure to also see the link below for our recap on the newly-introduced Intro Level with USEA, as well as the upcoming Combined Test Leaderboard, set to debut December 1, 2026. [Read it on EN: "How Mia Farley Got Her Groove Back: Stories from the Tryon International CCI4*-L"] [Read it on EN: "Wednesday News & Notes: New USEA Intro Level & Combined Test Leaderboard"] 10:35 - One Big Thing: Growing Costa Rican Eventing from the Ground Up Leonor opens with her own journey into eventing — one shaped by passion, persistence, and the kind of community that forms when a small group of people decides to build something together. She speaks about the role of family and community in sustaining the sport in Costa Rica, and how those relationships have been as important to the program's growth as any formal structure. The conversation moves into the very real challenges Leo and her fellow riders face: funding gaps, limited access to international competition, and the logistical complexity of developing horses and riders in a country where the eventing ecosystem is still taking shape. She is candid about what those constraints look like in practice and the creative strategies she and others have developed in response. Leo speaks about the role of international clinics and exchange programs in acce

“Where Eventing Lives” Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. We're testing a new episode format this week, as we hope to begin utilizing this platform for long-form discussions covering a variety of in-depth discussions, for which our featured guests and co-hosts will act as an expert panelist to contribute to a deeper dive into topics, events, and various areas of our industry we feel deserve a spotlight. The Kentucky Three-Day Event is no mere walk in the park — it's a pilgrimage, the place where the eventing world convenes every spring, where legends are made on cross country, and where first-time spectators leave as lifelong eventing fans. If you've never been — or if you've been a dozen times and still feel like you're figuring it out as you go — this episode is your cheat sheet, a one-stop guide from seasoned attendees with all the tips and tricks to making the most of your Kentucky week. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 🔎What’s Inside Season 2, Episode 5? Host Sally Spickard is joined by Cherie Chauvin, Director of Optimum Time - Global Eventing Tourism, for a comprehensive insider's guide to experiencing the Kentucky Three-Day Event like a seasoned pro. Whether you're planning your first trip to the Bluegrass or looking to finally stop missing the things everyone else seems to know about, Cherie has spent more time navigating this event than almost anyone — and she's sharing all of it. Which activities you should star on the schedule? What are the tricks to navigating cross-country day? Should you stay to watch the awards ceremony? What inspires someone to go into the porta-potty business? What flavor of ice cream should you bring to meet Bruce Davidson? Learn more about the answers to these questions (as well as Sally’s near-criminal experience on course in Paris) in this episode filled to the brim with all the insider tricks you’ll need at Kentucky! 🔥In This Episode, We Cover... 00:20 - News & Notes: Win the Warmup at Kentucky & the Adelaide Equestrian Festival Join EN and Optimum Time - Global Eventing Tourism at the Kentucky Three-Day Event on Friday, April 24th at 10am for a Win the Warmup Experience, featuring guest host Lainey Ashker. This is a great educational experience, and completely FREE, so save your spot with the link below and we'll look forward to seeing you there! We also had EN photographer and reporter Atalya Boytner catch up with our most recent 5* winner, Oliver Barrett, who just this past weekend won the Adelaide CCI5* on his homebred Sandhills Briar. Listen in to their exclusive interview, and join us in keeping our eye on this young star as he aims for "that pretty big event in August in Germany". [Click here to RSVP for the EN x Optimum Time KY3DE Win the Warmup Experience] [Read it on EN — A Weekend in Adelaide: Wins On and Off the Leaderboard, A Full Circle Family Dream and Career Goals Realized] [US Equestrian Open Leaderboard] [EN’s KY3DE Form Guide] 11:40 - Entries Preview: Who We're Following From rookies to old favorites, up-and-coming stars to 5* winners, this year's entry list is sure to be packed full of drama. [Click here to follow along with all of Eventing Nation's Kentucky coverage] where you can find pre-event stories and rookie highlights, mid-competition updates and breaking news, and post-event reports and highlights from our team on the ground and around the world. [Read it on EN — The Newest Members of the Pink Pony Club: Ali Kuhn and Little Hail (and how the Pink began)] [EN'S KY3DE Ultimate Guide] 25:29 - One Big Thing: How to Go Eventing at Kentucky Follow along as you listen and star all the places and activities Sally and Cherie mention on the grounds map here:[Kentucky Horse Park map] [Provisional Event Schedule] 34:58 - (Saturday) Cross Country Day[Bringing Your Dog to Kentucky?] 57:

“Where Eventing Lives” Welcome back to Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. This week, we're pulling back the curtain on the side of the sport that competitors depend on, but rarely receive an inside look at. From the judge's booth to the horse inspection strip, the licensed officials who keep eventing running safely and fairly carry enormous responsibility, so we're shining the spotlight on someone who knows the ins and outs of this high-pressure world — as well as what it's like to be the one cantering down the centerline. Whether you're a seasoned competitor trying to crack the code on your dressage scores, an up-and-coming rider working through the levels, or simply a fan who's ever wondered what's happening inside the booth, this conversation is one you won't want to miss. __________________________________________________________________________ 🔎What’s Inside Season 2, Episode 3? Host Sally Spickard sits down with FEI judge, Olympian, and long-time eventing official Peter Gray for a zoomed-out conversation on what it takes to uphold the standards of our sport at the highest level. Peter brings a rare dual perspective, having competed at the top of the sport and now judging it as an official — making him uniquely positioned to speak to both the rider's experience and the judge's eye. From the nuances of progressive dressage scoring to the mental resilience required to make split-second decisions during cross country, Peter offers practical insight for riders at every level while pulling back the curtain on what officiating at the FEI level truly demands. 🔥In This Episode, We Cover... 00:25 - News & Notes: Maryland 5 Star update, Carolina International, & the Road to the Horse Sally talks through the recent cancellation of the 2026 Maryland 5 Star and what that means for the US and worldwide sport calendar for this year. The EN team had boots on the ground at the Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International CCI & HT, where West-coast queen Tamie Smith swept the board with wins in the CCI2*-S, 3*-S, and 4*-S, so listen in to an interview with Sally and the champion herself regarding her current horses and her plans out East. We also bring you an exclusive phone interview with Elisa Wallace following her second-place finish at the 2026 Road to the Horse World Championship -- where she may have left without an empty trailer! [Road to the Horse YouTube replays] [Full interview with Carolina International CCI1* winner Lee Maher (and Chris Talley)] [Full interview with Carolina International CCI 2*, 3*, & 4* winner Tamie Smith] 30:44 - One Big Thing: Rider, Judge, & Jury Life Peter leads us through the world of FEI officiating, both what it looks like from the inside and what it means for the competitors. He walks through the judging process at the FEI level, how horse inspections are conducted, what officials are truly evaluating during a ground jury assessment, and how technology is increasingly shaping the way dressage scores are recorded and reviewed. He shares practical, level-appropriate guidance rooted in the principles of progressive training and patient horse development, emphasizing that what earns scores at 5* is the same foundation being built at Beginner Novice. He and Sally explore how the evolution of eventing as a discipline has shifted both training philosophies and judging standards over time, and what role coaches and officials play in keeping that development on track. Peter also speaks candidly about the mental demands of officiating, the pressure of real-time decision-making during cross country, how officials process and manage uncertainty, and what it means to carry responsibility for the safety and fairness of the sport at its highest level — because in the end, it's all about the horse. [Listen in to Peter Grey on Ride iQ's In Stride Podcast] [USEF Licensed Officials requirements] 2:07:20 - Finish Flags F

Host Sally Spickard sits down with 5* eventing icon Emily Hamel to dive into the realities of building a partnership with a single top-level horse, the patience required to develop trust over time, and what it means to manage expectations while pursuing competitive goals. Whether you’re following high-performance competition, navigating your own partnership with a single upper-level horse, or curious about the evolving structure of the sport, this conversation explores how structural decisions at the top level filter down to everyday competitors.

“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... 01:55 - News & Notes: 2025's Final 5* at Pau 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. 13:48 - One Big Thing: 5* Entries and the Future 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"] 1:09:54 - You Ask, We Answer: 5*s in Europe, XC Breakfasts, and KY3DE 2026 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] 1:16:39 - Finish Flags 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 a

“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... 2:15 - News & Notes: Wesley Clover Parks on the Rise & US Equestrian Open Preview [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”] 9:05 - Go Eventing Shout-Outs 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]! 15:58 - One Big Thing: The Future is Bright for Canadian Eventing 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] 59:23 - Sponsor Segment: Level Up with Ride EquiSafe 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] 1:05:51 - You Ask, We Answer: Strange Questions & Bill the Batterer 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] 1:10:50 - Finish Flags Coming up in Episode 18: Sally will be joined next by Portuguese FEI eventer Kiko Stilwell, an inspirational figure you won't want to miss — so tune back in soon! One note: Our 18th episode will be slightly delayed from its originally scheduled release date of October 21st to allow us time to record and edit following the MARS Maryland 5 Star. 🎧Listen Now and Join the Conversation! Got thoughts, questions, or feedback? Your voice is a part of our story – we want to hear from you! Find us on social media @goeventing or email us at [email protected]. 📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Go Eventing wherever you get your podcasts! Let's keep building this community together. #GoEventing #EventingNation #WhereEventingLives The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat o

“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... 1:35 - News & Notes: Morven and Maryland Upcoming, 5* Travel Grants, & New Garmin Tech 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] 8:01 - Go Eventing Shout-Outs 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]! 17:30 - One Big Thing: Burghley in the Rearview 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] 1:18:53 - You Ask, We Answer: Tiny Horse Army & XC Mounts 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] 1:20:38 - Finish Flags 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 The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and sto

“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![Click here to enter to win a $250 gift certificate to Ride EquiSafe] We cover: 🪖 How to find a helmet that actually fits (and why price ≠ protection) 🦺 Body protectors vs. air vests — what’s the difference, and do you need both? 🔬 How research (like Virginia Tech’s helmet ratings) is shaping smarter safety choices 💇‍♀️ Why hair type and style really matter when fitting helmets 🌍 The push for more inclusive, innovative safety gear for every rider Episode links: Protective Hairstyle Helmet Fitting Guide by Tipperary Catherine's Waterproof Weather or Not Equestrian Breeches 🎧 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)Tryon International storefront (Vendor Cabins 5 & 6)World Equestrian Festival (Exhibitor's Village) The Go Eventing Podcast powered by Eventing Nation is your front-row seat to the heartbeat of eventing. From exclusive athlete interviews to behind-the-scenes insights, we bring you closer to the horses, riders, and stories that make our sport unforgettable. Our vision: Celebrate the stories of eventing while connecting fans, riders, and supporters worldwide. What makes us different: Rider-first conversations Honest, unfiltered stories 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 A community-driven approach

“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... 02:29 - News & Notes: Mai Baum's Retirement, Fall 5*s, and Rethinking Productivity 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! Andrea M., Minnesota Melanie N., North Carolina Aubrey B., Nevada Brittany C., New Hampshire 23:54 - One Big Thing: Inclusivity and Worldwide Eventing 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! 01:11:40 - You Ask, We Answer: Mules, Bucket Lists, & Forgetting Literally Everything 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] 01:20:00 - Finish Fla

“Where Eventing Lives” It’s a milestone episode! 🎉 Welcome to Episode 10 of Go Eventing, the podcast where the heart, soul, and stories of the eventing world come to life. This week, we are joined by an Olympic rider, coach, and all-around icon to recap the latest 5* action and explore the deeper elements that keep eventing evolving. This episode is a masterclass wrapped in a celebration — a thoughtful, honest conversation with one of eventing’s most trusted cornerstones. Whether you're a rider, a fellow Team Germany fan, or just someone who loves to dig deep into the sport at its core, this one is packed with insight, experienced advice, and trademark humor. 🔎What’s Inside Episode 10? Host Sally Spickard is joined by one of her (and let's face it, everyone's) idols: The Bettina Hoy, fresh off the heels of the Luhmühlen 5* in her home country of Germany. Bettina and Sally unpack standout performances, including Ros Canter’s continued dominance and Malin Hansen-Hotopp’s inspiring rise. They dive deeper into the principles that underpin our sport: fitness, preparation, education, and emotional connection, and Bettina shares her expert insights on judging, coaching, and the future of eventing, including what riders and officials alike must do to ensure the sport grows in the right direction. There are also giveaways, laughter, and listener questions, because what’s a celebration without a little party? 🔥 In This Episode, We Cover... 03:12 - News & Notes: 10th Episode Giveaway, Ros Canter at Luhmühlen, LA28 Course Design, & Aachen Preview This is our 10th episode, so we're celebrating with prizes!! Leave us a rating/review and send a screenshot to [email protected] to enter, or post the screenshot to your IG story and tag @goeventing. Sign up for our Between the Flags email newsletter for a bonus entry! Sally and Bettina listen to a short interview from Tilly with Ros Canter and the changes she made from last year's run at Luhmühlen – because yes, even the best of the best can be caught off-guard! They also touch on Malin Hansen-Hotopp's perseverance and passion, LA28's difficult cross-country design challenges to be faced, and the upcoming CHIO Aachen 4*. [Click to enter the Go Eventing Podcast 10th Episode Giveaway!] [Watch Aachen on ClipMyHorse.tv] 38:39 - One Big Thing: High Performance Habits Bettina is one of the most trusted voices in eventing for a reason, so she and Sally take a deep dive into her coaching philosophy, a real talk on judging, and break down the need for emotional intelligence in riding. You'll want to put your comfort zone aside as they discuss how growth often starts with discomfort, how that applies in the saddle, and the importance of improved and continual education for judges and riders alike. Bettina's unmatched experience as a rider, coach, champion, and the most shrewd of judges brings an incredible wealth of knowledge to many unanswered questions – so turn up the volume and learn just why she coaches the very best. 01:18:37 - You Ask, We Answer: Listener Questions, Duck-Sized Horses, & Dream Eventing Rules Do you remember Sally saying in our first episode that she'd never want to battle Bettina Hoy: Intimidating CrossFit Warrior? Well it turns out that Bettina would join a fight – but is it against 100 duck-sized horses, or one eventing-fit horse-sized duck? 👀 You'll have to listen to find out, along with her cheat meal, the best horse she ever rode, and what her first executive order would be on day one as Eventing World President. [Submit your question for our co-hosts here] 01:32:39 - Finish Flags Tune in to our next episode of Go Eventing to hear all the best tips from fitness guru Ifa Simmonds! Be sure to keep an eye out next month for our first #Supergroom feature, the one and only Stephanie Simpson: Boyd Martin Wrangler and Windurra Head Boss. 🎧 Listen Now & Join the Conversation! Got thoughts, questions, or feedback? Your voice is a p