by Nancy Jaffer | Aug 3, 2026
The FEI’s monthly dressage standings have just come out, and the names at the top of the list offer the promise of a memorable world championship this month, with two horse/rider combinations having equal likelihood of earning top honors individually.
The gold is most likely to go either to Denmark’s Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour (Mount St. John Freestyle) or Belgian sensation Justin Verboomen (Zonik Plus). They each have taken turns as number one. This month, Cathrine rose from twenty-ninth to take that spot, with Justin (number one) last month, right behind. Their mounts are, not surprisingly 1-2 on the 3-star and above horse list.
Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour and Mount St. John Freestyle
Reigning world champion Lottie Fry is third in the rider rankings while her Glamourdale holds the same position in the horse hierarchy. Germany’s Isabell Werth (Wendy de Fontaine) is number four, followed by Becky Moody of Great Britain (Jagerbomb). Her compatriot, Carl Hester (Fame) stands sixth.
The highest-ranked U.S. horse ridden by an American is Christian Simonson’s star, Indian Rock, at number 13. Indian Rock is resting, however, and won’t be part of the U.S. team. Christian is riding Fleau de Baian, number 76 on the horse roster, at Aachen.
His teammate, Genay Vaughn (Gino), who dropped off the U.S. world championships team, is number 40 on the rider list.
Helix, ridden by the USA’s Adrienne Lyle, is number 51 on the horse list, but the three-time Olympian did not apply to be on the world championships team.
by Nancy Jaffer | Aug 10, 2026
The FEI World Championships get underway Tuesday at Aachen with Grand Prix dressage competition, as 19 nations (with 91 riders) take part.
The competition begins at 2 a.m. Eastern time, but if you don’t want to get up well before dawn, we will have everything covered on this site. So come back Tuesday afternoon to read what happened, and check in every day after that for a rundown on the six-discipline championships, which end Aug. 23.
In dressage, while only four teams would seem to have a real chance for making the podium when the medals are awarded on Wednesday, there are always surprises.
Twenty years ago, when Aachen hosted the World Equestrian Games (basically the same event, different name, no endurance competition) a lovely grey mare from Denmark, Blue Hors Matine, burst on the scene to produce the top score in the Grand Prix and take bronze in the Special.
Blu Hors Matine was a sensation 20 years ago, the last time the world championships were held at Aachen
So who knows what unexpected star or stars might get our attention in a big way this time around.
In the team ranks, however, the medal surprises won’t include the U.S. squad, which has been plagued by dropouts and the absence of the country’s top two horses, Jane and Indian Rock, rehabbing and resting respectively. But while the other nations are vying for places in the 2028 LA Olympics, the U.S. has no issues there — the home team automatically qualifies.
The big medal contenders include Great Britain, with reigning dressage world champion Lottie Fry (Glamourdale), reigning World Cup Champion Becky Moody and her homebred Jaegerbomb, as well as the architect of British dressage success, Carl Hester (Fame).
Unlike the Olympics, which allows only three riders on a team with all scores to count, the world championships permits a quartet on each squad. In Britain’s case, that’s Fiona Bigwood and another homebred, Donna Bella. Four on a team means leeway, since the worst score can be dropped when the totals are figured.
Teams in contention obviously include Germany, which enjoys a home-side advantage and the charisma of multi, multi-medalist Isabell Werth (Wendy de Fontaine). Denmark and Belgium each have power generated by their star riders, respectively Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour (Mount St. John Freestyle) and Justin Verboomen (Zonik Plus). Also, keep an eye on Spain, which is improving and interesting to watch with LA28 in mind.
by Nancy Jaffer | Aug 5, 2026
First it was Marilyn Little withdrawing La Contessa from the U.S. show jumping team at this month’s world championships in Aachen, Germany. Then came Phillip Dutton’s substitution of his back-up mount, Denim, for Possante on the U.S. eventing team.
On Saturday the U.S. Equestrian Federation has announced another U.S. world championships team drop-out, Genay Vaughn and Gino. Their place will be taken by Meagan Davis and Toronto Lightfoot.
It’s the second change in less than a week. On Wednesday, Jordan LaPlaca said he was stepping aside from the dressage team, with Kasey Perry-Glass and Heartbeat WP taking the place of himself and Gold Play on the squad.
Jordan LaPlaca and Gold Play.
“In the spirit of staying true to my core convictions as a horseman and as a committed partner to my horse, Gold Play, I have decided to withdraw from this year’s FEI Dressage World Championships. Gold Play is okay and that is the most important thing,” Jordan announced.
“But as a member of the U.S. team, I have to do what is best not only for my horse, but for the entire team as well. This is not the end, just the beginning of great things still to come.”
Jordan, who was fifth in the national Grand Prix Championships in May, is short on experience internationally. Kasey has been a team medalist in both the Olympics and World Equestrian Games. Those honors came with her previous horse, Dublet. Heartbeat has far less milage. He and Casey were fifteenth at the national Grand Prix championships, where they withdrew from the freestyle.
Kasey Perry-Glass and Heartbeat WP.
This is a building year for the U.S. dressage team, as it looks toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Team members will get experience at the world championships next week, but there is no chance of a U.S. medal in the discipline there.
The country is short on proven horse power at the top level. Jane, a veteran of the Paris Olympics with Marcus Orlob, has been rehabbing from injury for most of this year and was not a contender for the world championships team. The top-ranked U.S. horse internationally, Indian Rock, has been resting since the national championships, where he dropped out before the freestyle.
Things could be worse. Canada had only two entries for the world championships eventing. Now Michael Winter has withdrawn after his Olympic veteran, El Mundo, sustained an injury during his prep work and can’t compete. Now Jessica Winter and the Fluorescent Adolescent are Canada’s only represntatives in the discipline at the championships.
Mike explained about his horse, known as Roberto, “The care and well-being of Roberto, and of all our equine partners, is paramount. The most important thing is that Roberto is here at home, being well-cared for.
“Not because of what he has done for us, or what he may still do, but because he is a valued partner entrusted to our care. We have a responsibility to make the best decisions we can for him, always with his long-term welfare at heart and with the goal of creating the best possible outcomes throughout his career and his life.”
by Nancy Jaffer | Aug 2, 2026
Author and ground-breaking trainer Monty Roberts died Saturday at his ranch in California. He was 91.
His best-selling memoir, “The Man Who Listens to Horses,” was read by millions of people and made him an international sensation.
The horse-training method he called “Join-Up” involved trust-based communications, detailing a sympathetic way for humans to interact with them. He mentored the late Queen Elizabeth II after she learned of his methods in 1989. They often were photographed together while he worked with her horses.
Monty Roberts at work.
The son of a trainer, Monty started as a stunt double for Elizabeth Taylor and others, while training such actors as James Dean for East of Eden.
But growing up, he saw things he didn’t like in the ways people “training” horses interacted with them.
“My father trained horses in the traditional way, 6,000 years of methods handed down generationally, often violent and rarely fair to the horse. He expected me to follow in his footsteps and so I was also violently disciplined in the only way he knew how, through pain and force. I vowed to seek better methods for my horses.
“I first learned to listen to horses while observing wild mustangs in Nevada at the age of thirteen. Sent there to round up horses for the Salinas Rodeo Association’s Wild Horse Race, I spent hours silently watching the feral horses interact with each other.”
Monty and Shy Boy, who died this year at the age of 33.
Monty sought an alternative to the rough horse training involving force and fear that he too often witnessed, paving the way to the kinder natural horsemanship approach that is widely favored today.
He believed horses communicated through a language he called “Equus.” By understanding and respectfully using this language in a round pen, he showed that a trainer could invite a horse to voluntarily “join up” and choose partnership with a human.
His daughter, Debbie Roberts Loucks, commented, “For the world, he was known as the man who listens to horses. To me, he was simply Dad, a man of extraordinary kindness, unwavering integrity, and an unshakable belief that trust could accomplish what force never could.
“For more than eight decades, he dedicated his life to changing the way people understand and work with horses. His mission reached far beyond horsemanship. He believed that true leadership is built on communication, patience, empathy, and respect; lessons that have touched the lives of countless people around the world.
“Our family is deeply grateful for the love, friendship, and support you have shown him throughout his remarkable life. Your letters, visits, stories, and shared experiences have meant more than you could ever know. Together, you became part of a worldwide community united by a common belief that both horses and people thrive when they are treated with kindness and understanding.”
Through his organization, Join-Up International, based in Solvang, Calif., he promoted his methods, teaching horse owners, trainers, and even corporate leaders about non-adversarial communication.
Monty is survived by his wife, Pat Roberts; his children, Debbie and her sister, Laurel Roberts, as well as “a legacy that forever changed how humanity interacts with the horse.”
by Nancy Jaffer | Aug 2, 2026
The Devon Horse Show is a “must” destination for hunter/jumper exhibitors, and attracts representatives of other disciplines as well. Another USEF Heritage competition, Fairview Partners Dressage at Devon, is held at the venue in September.
Founded in 1896, the May/June multi-breed show is a magnet for young hunter, jumper and equitation competitors, who consider being part of it a rite of passage. Amateurs gear their ambition to an appearance there. And professionals know the show season isn’t complete without a stop on the venerated showgrounds along Philadelphia’s Main Line.
Hunter riders consider a Devon ribbon a mark of excellence.
Families from the area pass down their box seats to their children and grandchildren. It’s standing room only for the Sapphire Grand Prix on the second Thursday of the 12-day show, when the place is packed to overflowing with enthusiastic spectators. Arena eventing on the first Sunday night and four-in-hand carriage competition are among the special features that attract attendance on other days.
The quaint shops offer everything from all sorts of tack to jewelry, clothing and knickknacks. The large souvenir stand does big business for souvenirs visitors are eager to take home, evidence that they have attended one of the most famous landmarks on the equestrian calendar.
Shopping opportunities abound at Devon.
But the facility has undergone a lot of wear and tear over the decades it has stood staunchly in its signature “Devon blue” and white color scheme. The footing is up-to-date, yet some of the structures around the arenas haven’t changed much over the generations. Stabling is being gradually upgraded. And the parking is an issue.
Planning to keep the facility viable in the era of far fancier, amenities-heavy showgrounds such as the World Equestrian Center or Wellington International, the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Foundation has announced the launch of the Devon Legacy Initiative, “a five-year, $5 million effort to preserve, restore and modernize Devon’s historic grounds and facilities.”
The initiative will support infrastructure improvements, enhanced hospitality and “exhibitor experiences;” greater accessibility and preservation projects that will help ensure Devon remains a world-class equestrian destination for future generations.
McLain Ward always makes it a point to compete at Devon.
“Our mission is to preserve, restore, and modernize the historic Devon Horse Show & Country Fair, while honoring the traditions that have defined the event for more than 130 years,” the announcement stated.
The Legacy Initiative will officially kick off with a reception on Thursday, Oct. 8 at Triple Crown Restaurant in Radnor, Pa.
“The Devon Legacy Initiative is about stewardship. This effort will help ensure future generations continue to experience the magic and impact of this treasured institution,” said Wayne Grafton, Devon’s chairman and CEO.
For reservations, email Evan@Devonhorseshow.com or call 610-964-0550 ext. 234.
by Nancy Jaffer | Jul 15, 2026
The Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympics are two years away, but it’s time to apply if you’re interested in volunteering at the Games.
Maybe you can buy a ticket, or maybe not,(there’s great demand) but it’s more fun to be part of the action than it is just to watch. Being a volunteer means swag and all sorts of possibilities, from interacting with athletes to being part of the ceremonies and so many other jobs.
You don’t have to be in the Los Angeles area; volunteers also are being sought in Oklahoma City, New York City; Columbus, Ohio; Nashville, St. Louis, San José and San Diego. But equestrian is in Arcadia, Calif., just outside LA.
Volunteers with sport roles (such as equestrian) will assist with field-of-play operations and maintaining a safe, organized and fair environment for athletes. They will play a crucial role in supporting competition readiness, managing equipment or athlete areas and ensuring that sessions run smoothly and efficiently. Your area of expertise also will help determine your type of volunteer participation.
You must be 18 at the time of your application and be proficient in reading and writing English. Click here if you want to apply. To be in line for an equestrian volunteer job, use this code: 9SMGGA3Q
Or would you like to buy a ticket instead?
July 22 is the final day to register for the second LA28 Ticket Draw for the opportunity to purchase Olympic tickets in Drop 2.
Fans who previously registered for the first LA28 Ticket Draw but didn’t receive a time slot or didn’t purchase their ticket maximums during their time slot in Drop 1 will automatically be entered into the draw for Drop 2.
Additionally, qualifying LA28 Visa cardholders also have until July 22 to opt into the LA28 Visa Presale Ticket Draw, an early purchase window running July 29–31, ahead of Drop 2. Existing registrants can opt in by logging into their account at Tickets.LA28.org, navigating to their profile and checking the Visa Presale box. Paralympic tickets won’t be sold until next year.
Click here to reach the LA28 ticket page.
by Nancy Jaffer | Aug 1, 2026
An injury to Possante in training has led to his replacement for the world eventing championships in Aachen this month. But Phillip Dutton still will be on the team. He had a direct back-up in Denim, who will be his starter in Germany.
“Unfortunately, Possante has come up with an injury in training. He will heal well but not in time for the WEG (world championships).. My huge condolences to Impy and all of his owners! We were really clicking well,” Phillip announced on social media.
Phillip and Possante (Any Dragoo photo)
“It has been an emotional roller coaster of a week to say the least, as, fortunately for me, Denim was then selected as Impy’s replacement. I’m really excited still to be a part of the U.S. team in a very special venue at Aachen.
Possante won the final pre-Aachen competition at the Horse Park of New Jersey last month, where Denim was second.
by Nancy Jaffer | Aug 2, 2026
As the Neustädter Pferdesommer dressage show in Germany came to a close on Sunday, three-time Olympian Adrienne Lyle had to take a back seat again to one of her students.
Quinn Iverson scored a personal best in the 4-star Grand Prix Special with Billie Davidson’s Gremlin 41, an Oldenburg gelding by Grey Flanell. That combination was marked at 70.745 percent for the win, while Adrienne — winner of the Grand Prix in the division on Thursday — was second with Helix on 70.383 percent. The other American in the competition, Meagan Davis, finished fifth on 67.894 percent with Toronto Lightfoot.
Although there is a large U.S. dressage contingent set to compete in Aachen, Germany, for this month’s world championships, Adrienne is not on the team, since she didn’t apply to be considered. She was the winner in May at the World Equestrian Center’s 3-star competition in Florida with Helix, a 14-year-old KWPN gelded son of Apache.
Another of Adrienne’s students, Katie Duerrhammer on Kylee Lourie’s Rosebank VH, was victorious Friday in the 1-Star Prix St. Georges on a personal best of 73.775 percent. Adrienne had to settle for second on Hussman’s Top Gun with 71.765 percent.
On Saturday, in the 1-star Intermediare I, it was the same story. Katie had another personal best in first place on Rosebank with a score of 74.559 for the 8-year-old Swedish warmblood stallion., Adrienne was second on Top Gun (72.794), who, like Helix, is owned by Zen Elite. Her biggest loss of points with the evolving son of Totilas was in the flying changes every three strides, where she received two marks of 4, two of 5 and one of 6.
On Sunday, Katie Duerrhammer won the Intermediare I with Liam Neeson, 72.939. She was the only U.S. rider in the class.
click here for results in the Grand Prix. Click here for results in the Prix St. Georges. Click here for results in the I-1. Click here for results in the Special
by Nancy Jaffer | Jul 28, 2026
The definite entries for next month’s FEI World Championships at Aachen were published today, so click on the discipline you follow to see all the names. And check out this link for an overview of the most important competition of the year.
We’ll be covering the competition, which means you can come to the site every day from Aug. 11-23 to find out who’s winning (and who’s not).
To see the listing of jumpers entered, click here .
For dressage, click here, and for eventing, click here.
Go to this link for driving, this one for para dressage and this one for vaulting squads.
by Nancy Jaffer | Jul 26, 2026
Olivia Dutton, the daughter of eventing legend Phillip Dutton, earned the individual bronze medal on Jewelent in the first FEI U25 Eventing Championship Sunday. It was the only U.S. medal of the championship at Millstreet, Ireland.
Jewelent, bred in County Armagh, Ireland, previously was ridden by Phillip, who will represent the U.S. at the world championships next month in Aachen, Germany, on Denim, after Possante was withdrawn August 1 due to an injury.
“It feels unreal to be on the podium,” Olivia commented after the medal presentation, and thanking Jewelent’s owner for letting her ride the horse originally bought for her father.
“It’s been a dream come true coming here. He is an unbelievable horse, and he tries so hard. Our cross-country effort felt amazing, and to jump clear around that tough jumping course was the icing on the cake. I couldn’t be happier and thankful to the team and everyone supporting us, especially my parents and my sister. It’s a huge team effort, and for us to produce this kind of result makes the hard work worth it.”
Germany’s Calvin Böckmann (Altair de la Cense) won individual gold and Cerys Macauley (Kananaskis) of Great Britain claimed individual silver to add to her team’s gold medal. Germany took team silver and Ireland captured the bronze. The U.S., which had two riders fall on the Michael Etherington-Smith cross-country course, was fifth and last behind fourth-place France.
Eventing U25 champion Calvin Böckmann of Germany with Cerys MacCaley of Britain, left, the silver medalist and bronze medalist Olivia Dutton wearing the bronze. (FEI Photo/Benjamin Clark)
The championship was the first offering ever of the global title at Under 25 level, bridging the gap between Young Rider and senior championship competition.
“I honestly don’t think I’ve ever had so much fun at a championship. We are very lucky to have this new competition and this venue at Millstreet. The gap between Young Riders and seniors can be big and you can get lost,” Calvin said.
“I don’t normally get nervous, but I did feel the pressure. The cross-country was tough and quite different to anything we have seen in central Europe, but it will prepare us well for the future. My horse showed that she fights and wants to do her best; she grows 10 centimeters. For her to have this result means the world to me.”
Calvin, was the FEI Eventing U25 world number one as he arrived at the meet with the horse he has ridden for 10 years, up from the junior level. He was the leader after dressage, but time penalties cross-country moved him down to third. However, in stadium jumping, the riders standing first and second faltered, with overnight leader Tom Nestor of Ireland dropping to eighth as Cooley Diamond Dancer toppled four rails. Calvin’s clear round gave him the honors with a total of 40 penalties.
Cerys moved up from seventh after cross-country to secure the silver with 45.3. Olivia had the U.S. team’s drop score of 35.8 in dressage, putting her twenty-sixth at that point. She added 12 penalties cross-country, but her stadium round with just 0.4 time penalties to give her the unexpected bronze on 48.2 penalties.
After cross-country, Olivia said of the half-thoroughbred, “This horse is amazing, he was with me all the way round. The plan was to do the straight routes and the priority was to get round for the team, but also to be competitive. And I knew the horse was coming back to his country (Ireland) and that everyone would be watching.”
Her horse is a full brother to Cooley Rosalent, British rider Oliver Townend’s 5-star winner.
Olivia Dutton and Jewelent. (Irish Eventing Times photo)
The U.S. had two other combinations in the top ten, as Molly Duda (Disco Traveler) fifth on 49.2, followed by Jack Curtis (Luska’s Candy Clover) with the same score of 49.2.
Click here for team results. Click here for individual results.
