The Enjoyable 2003 Rolex Kentucky 3-Day Event
A Surprise From Across The Pond
I am convinced that there is nothing more enjoyable than a lush spring day in Kentucky-except maybe a day spent in the rolling hills of the Kentucky Horse Park watching horses. My chance to enjoy the verdant, springtime bluegrass arrives with the advent of the last weekend in April. To those who keep up with the sport of eventing, this weekend is known as the pinnacle of eventing weekends in the United States for it is Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event time! The Grand Slam of Eventing The 2003 event proved not only to be a fabulous weekend in Rolex history but also fabulous commencement in the history of eventing. You see, the winner of the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event also progressed to win the Grand Slam of Eventing. As you will recall, the Grand Slam of Eventing consists of $250,000 awarded to any rider who wins Rolex, Badminton and Burghley Four Star Events in succession. Pippa Funnel of Great Britain became the first rider to accomplish this grand task. Pippa Funnel and her partner Metier Consulting's Primmore's Pride won Burghley in England in September as well as winning Badminton in England on her mount Supreme Rock the weekend following Rolex. In addition to having her name written down in the annals of eventing history, Pippa received a Pink Gold 18 Carat Datejust Rolex Timepiece. Pippa was not alone in her accomplishments for she and her colleagues represented Great Britain well. Pippa and Primmore's Pride, Polly Stockton and Tangleman, and William Fox-Pitt and Moon Man occupied the first three places respectively. The road to achieving such a feat does not come easily. The Phases Three-day events are comprised of three phases-dressage, cross-country, and stadium jumping. Dressage demands the utmost attention and respect of the horse. Because it is first, this test truly examines how responsive these highly trained animals are. Dressage allows a horse to perform movements not seen in any other phase of the event. The importance of this phase is this-the rider demands that the horse, which is more than willing and bred to run, achieves harmony in a fluid motion. The movements of dressage you will see at this level, which are most spectacular, are the half pass, shoulder in, haunches in, and extended trot. One purpose of requiring such difficult movements is to train the mentality of the horse for the demanding phase of cross-country. The cross-country phase follows the first day of dressage. The cross-country course demands the utmost in endurance from the horse. Yet, the demands are not solely physical. No, cross-country tests the relationship of the rider with the horse. You see, the obstacles presented on such a course are often wider spreads and maximum heights approached at top-notch speeds. Furthermore, the often represent the hunt course type obstacle meaning that the obstacles can be quite ominous. These obstacles can be surrounded by massive amounts of brush. Moreover, the often have good drops into water and the like. Thrills and spills are to be expected as you watch rider and horse depend upon each other as they navigate the course. Mike Etherington-Smith, the course designer for past Olympic games as well as other international events, always proves to create daring combinations that not only test the horse and rider but also please the spectators. The third and final phase of the event is stadium jumping. Stadium jumping tests the athletic ability of the horse after he has navigated the rigorous cross-country phase. Stadium jumping is filled with oohs and ahhs from the crowd as spectators, on the edge of their seats, watch their favorite pair glide across the high jumps. Combinations such as doubles and triples are often seen during this phase. Particularly at Rolex, this phase features jumps designed after the famous farms in the area. Thoughts on 2003 Dressage The 2003 dressage phase showed that competitors had dramatically improved in this area. I am fairly certain that the test is not becoming easier but that the riders are becoming more accomplished. As a dressage junkie, I must admit, I was quite impressed with what I witnessed! I was particularly impressed with Polly Stockton's ride. She and Tangleman seemed to float in one seamless movement across the ring. The collection and gaits shown by Tangleman were fabulous, and Polly seemed to have a wonderful relationship with her partner. Not to be outdone however, William Fox-Pitt and Pippa Funnels were close on their heels. Thoughts on 2003 Cross-Country Cross-country began as a pleasant day. The sun shined its glorious warmth on the park and the water surrounding it glistened and shimmered. Mike Etherington-Smith designed what seemed to be a very mentally demanding course for the horse and rider possibly more so than in the past. One of my favorite places to hang out after I've pretty much run the course with several horses is the end. In the backside, you can see the rider's first reaction to his or her run. You also see how extensively and painstakingly these gorgeous animals are taken care of. On memory that will stick in my head for quite some time is that of Pippa when she finished. In fact, quite a few photos exist capturing those first moments. Pippa was all smiles. Her enjoyment of the sport and appreciation for Primmore's Pride thoroughly showed. And, as proven a year ago to be the norm, her comrade William Fox-Pitt also had an excellent go on the course. I also must say one other thing regarding Mr. Fox-Pitt-as I sat in the press tent and listened to his comments (you see, there are press conferences after each phase consisting of the top three to four riders), I was vastly impressed. Mr. Fox-Pitt has perhaps one of the most encouraging attitudes I have ever witnessed. His love for his horses and enjoyment of the sport simply as a sport and not a competition is apparent. He seems quite upbeat and pleased with his ride no matter how well they did. He makes what would be quite an intimidating and unfathomable experience to someone like myself seem as though it were as mundane as a practice ride. (Polly and Pippa both also showed the same spirit, too, which is nothing less than I would expect. Furthermore, all three were highly encouraging and pleased when the other did well. They seemed to dote on each other constantly and proved exactly what a team effort this sport is-not only with the rider and horse but with the riders as well.) Thoughts on 2003 Stadium Jumping For those of you who have not experienced Rolex, perhaps one of the greatest moments you will see occurs in the stadium jumping arena. Prior to the competition is the presentation of the colors. Surrounding the ring are all of the flags of the countries present. You truly get the feel of the international experience. I do have to say, however, that a surge of nationalism is common when you holler and hoot for those representing your own interests, particularly in Olympic years. As usual, the stadium jumping phase offered little room for any faults. I practically held my breath as I watched the horse and rider combination soar around the ring. This feeling seemed almost heightened in light of the excellent riders posing a threat to the visitors from across the pond. A Bit About Other Accomplished Riders I have said little up to this point about the favorites-the O'Connors, the Davidsons, Any Tryon, Phillip Dutton, Marcia Kulak, Beale Morris and others. In fact, mere words are not adequate when riders of this caliber are present. However, I will attempt to explain to you in few words what a true honor it is to see a few of these men and women. Karen and David O'Connor are perhaps the best-known couple in eventing. Who doesn't know their horses and names when several have been to multiple Olympic games and garnered medals for the team? Two of these horses made a very special and fitting appearance at the park this year in their dual retirement ceremony-Karen's very Olympic mount Prince Panache, more affectionately known as Nash, and David's Olympic mount Giltedge. These two horses show the excellence of eventing in this country and their performances will truly be missed. Bruce Davidson, Sr. and his son Bruce "Buck" Davidson, Jr. are also flowing suit. Bruce has participated in more Olympic games than I remember. In fact, he helped to bring the World Equestrian Games and subsequently all the Rolex entails to the Horse Park. Perhaps it is Bruce who has done more as an individual for the sport than any other. And it seems as though his son is following in his father's very accomplished footsteps! Despite the highly competitive field, the British seemed to persist and stay at the top but not without spectacular performances by the United States high caliber riders. All riders and horses gave truly brilliant performances. The weekend was one of the most memorable and enjoyable that I have had. It seems as though Rolex always brings out the best in people as well as fosters more memories and moments. I cannot imagine a better Rolex than those I have experienced but I continue to be amazed year after year as the last one is surpassed. Expectations for 2004 and What This Year Offers This year's event proves, before attendance, to be one such experience though. Although there will be teary moments, when David O'Connor's Olympic mount Custom Made (winner of the individual gold medal at the Sydney Games) is retired, the breath-catching and joyful moments will be in abundance. Why? What does Rolex hold for enthusiasts this year that is different than any other year? Rolex holds a magic like no other and not just because of the bluegrass and Kentucky springtime. It's not because it is the premier 4 Star Event in the western hemisphere either! No-it's the qualifying competition for the 2004 Olympic Games! It's also the 7th competition for the USET Pinnacle trophy, the summit in eventing. International riders will be abundant. In addition to the usual event, there is also a modified three-day for those who have already qualified. (P.S. The United States Equestrian Team will use both of these events as selection trials.) This modified course will consist of the new short form to be introduced at the Games. The distance will be 5700 meters and with the maximum amount of 45 jumping efforts. So make plans today to attend! Call area hotel early as they fill up rather quickly. The Event is April 22-25 in Lexington, KY at the Horse Park. For more information on obtaining tickets contact Equestrian Events, Inc. at (859)254-8123, (859) 254-5116 (fax) or visit the official Rolex Website at rk3de.org. We look forward to seeing you there supporting our wonderful teams and the international spirit and love of the magnificent horse! CCI**** Rolex Trophy - Primmore's Pride/Pippa Funnell (GBR) USET Pinnacle Trophy - Bruce O. Davidson, Jr./Mystic Mike (PA) Coman Trophy - Joanna and Roger Day (GBR) Carimati Cup - Pippa Funnell/Primmore's Pride (GBR) Bank One Trophy - Polly Stockton/Tangleman (GBR) Zeppa International Trophy - Jonathan Holling/Lion King II (FL) Best Conditioned Horse - Moon Man/William Fox-Pitt (GBR)
I am convinced that there is nothing more enjoyable than a lush spring day in Kentucky-except maybe a day spent in the rolling hills of the Kentucky Horse Park watching horses. My chance to enjoy the verdant, springtime bluegrass arrives with the advent of the last weekend in April. To those who keep up with the sport of eventing, this weekend is known as the pinnacle of eventing weekends in the United States for it is Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event time! The Grand Slam of Eventing The 2003 event proved not only to be a fabulous weekend in Rolex history but also fabulous commencement in the history of eventing. You see, the winner of the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event also progressed to win the Grand Slam of Eventing. As you will recall, the Grand Slam of Eventing consists of $250,000 awarded to any rider who wins Rolex, Badminton and Burghley Four Star Events in succession. Pippa Funnel of Great Britain became the first rider to accomplish this grand task. Pippa Funnel and her partner Metier Consulting's Primmore's Pride won Burghley in England in September as well as winning Badminton in England on her mount Supreme Rock the weekend following Rolex. In addition to having her name written down in the annals of eventing history, Pippa received a Pink Gold 18 Carat Datejust Rolex Timepiece. Pippa was not alone in her accomplishments for she and her colleagues represented Great Britain well. Pippa and Primmore's Pride, Polly Stockton and Tangleman, and William Fox-Pitt and Moon Man occupied the first three places respectively. The road to achieving such a feat does not come easily. The Phases Three-day events are comprised of three phases-dressage, cross-country, and stadium jumping. Dressage demands the utmost attention and respect of the horse. Because it is first, this test truly examines how responsive these highly trained animals are. Dressage allows a horse to perform movements not seen in any other phase of the event. The importance of this phase is this-the rider demands that the horse, which is more than willing and bred to run, achieves harmony in a fluid motion. The movements of dressage you will see at this level, which are most spectacular, are the half pass, shoulder in, haunches in, and extended trot. One purpose of requiring such difficult movements is to train the mentality of the horse for the demanding phase of cross-country. The cross-country phase follows the first day of dressage. The cross-country course demands the utmost in endurance from the horse. Yet, the demands are not solely physical. No, cross-country tests the relationship of the rider with the horse. You see, the obstacles presented on such a course are often wider spreads and maximum heights approached at top-notch speeds. Furthermore, the often represent the hunt course type obstacle meaning that the obstacles can be quite ominous. These obstacles can be surrounded by massive amounts of brush. Moreover, the often have good drops into water and the like. Thrills and spills are to be expected as you watch rider and horse depend upon each other as they navigate the course. Mike Etherington-Smith, the course designer for past Olympic games as well as other international events, always proves to create daring combinations that not only test the horse and rider but also please the spectators. The third and final phase of the event is stadium jumping. Stadium jumping tests the athletic ability of the horse after he has navigated the rigorous cross-country phase. Stadium jumping is filled with oohs and ahhs from the crowd as spectators, on the edge of their seats, watch their favorite pair glide across the high jumps. Combinations such as doubles and triples are often seen during this phase. Particularly at Rolex, this phase features jumps designed after the famous farms in the area. Thoughts on 2003 Dressage The 2003 dressage phase showed that competitors had dramatically improved in this area. I am fairly certain that the test is not becoming easier but that the riders are becoming more accomplished. As a dressage junkie, I must admit, I was quite impressed with what I witnessed! I was particularly impressed with Polly Stockton's ride. She and Tangleman seemed to float in one seamless movement across the ring. The collection and gaits shown by Tangleman were fabulous, and Polly seemed to have a wonderful relationship with her partner. Not to be outdone however, William Fox-Pitt and Pippa Funnels were close on their heels. Thoughts on 2003 Cross-Country Cross-country began as a pleasant day. The sun shined its glorious warmth on the park and the water surrounding it glistened and shimmered. Mike Etherington-Smith designed what seemed to be a very mentally demanding course for the horse and rider possibly more so than in the past. One of my favorite places to hang out after I've pretty much run the course with several horses is the end. In the backside, you can see the rider's first reaction to his or her run. You also see how extensively and painstakingly these gorgeous animals are taken care of. On memory that will stick in my head for quite some time is that of Pippa when she finished. In fact, quite a few photos exist capturing those first moments. Pippa was all smiles. Her enjoyment of the sport and appreciation for Primmore's Pride thoroughly showed. And, as proven a year ago to be the norm, her comrade William Fox-Pitt also had an excellent go on the course. I also must say one other thing regarding Mr. Fox-Pitt-as I sat in the press tent and listened to his comments (you see, there are press conferences after each phase consisting of the top three to four riders), I was vastly impressed. Mr. Fox-Pitt has perhaps one of the most encouraging attitudes I have ever witnessed. His love for his horses and enjoyment of the sport simply as a sport and not a competition is apparent. He seems quite upbeat and pleased with his ride no matter how well they did. He makes what would be quite an intimidating and unfathomable experience to someone like myself seem as though it were as mundane as a practice ride. (Polly and Pippa both also showed the same spirit, too, which is nothing less than I would expect. Furthermore, all three were highly encouraging and pleased when the other did well. They seemed to dote on each other constantly and proved exactly what a team effort this sport is-not only with the rider and horse but with the riders as well.) Thoughts on 2003 Stadium Jumping For those of you who have not experienced Rolex, perhaps one of the greatest moments you will see occurs in the stadium jumping arena. Prior to the competition is the presentation of the colors. Surrounding the ring are all of the flags of the countries present. You truly get the feel of the international experience. I do have to say, however, that a surge of nationalism is common when you holler and hoot for those representing your own interests, particularly in Olympic years. As usual, the stadium jumping phase offered little room for any faults. I practically held my breath as I watched the horse and rider combination soar around the ring. This feeling seemed almost heightened in light of the excellent riders posing a threat to the visitors from across the pond. A Bit About Other Accomplished Riders I have said little up to this point about the favorites-the O'Connors, the Davidsons, Any Tryon, Phillip Dutton, Marcia Kulak, Beale Morris and others. In fact, mere words are not adequate when riders of this caliber are present. However, I will attempt to explain to you in few words what a true honor it is to see a few of these men and women. Karen and David O'Connor are perhaps the best-known couple in eventing. Who doesn't know their horses and names when several have been to multiple Olympic games and garnered medals for the team? Two of these horses made a very special and fitting appearance at the park this year in their dual retirement ceremony-Karen's very Olympic mount Prince Panache, more affectionately known as Nash, and David's Olympic mount Giltedge. These two horses show the excellence of eventing in this country and their performances will truly be missed. Bruce Davidson, Sr. and his son Bruce "Buck" Davidson, Jr. are also flowing suit. Bruce has participated in more Olympic games than I remember. In fact, he helped to bring the World Equestrian Games and subsequently all the Rolex entails to the Horse Park. Perhaps it is Bruce who has done more as an individual for the sport than any other. And it seems as though his son is following in his father's very accomplished footsteps! Despite the highly competitive field, the British seemed to persist and stay at the top but not without spectacular performances by the United States high caliber riders. All riders and horses gave truly brilliant performances. The weekend was one of the most memorable and enjoyable that I have had. It seems as though Rolex always brings out the best in people as well as fosters more memories and moments. I cannot imagine a better Rolex than those I have experienced but I continue to be amazed year after year as the last one is surpassed. Expectations for 2004 and What This Year Offers This year's event proves, before attendance, to be one such experience though. Although there will be teary moments, when David O'Connor's Olympic mount Custom Made (winner of the individual gold medal at the Sydney Games) is retired, the breath-catching and joyful moments will be in abundance. Why? What does Rolex hold for enthusiasts this year that is different than any other year? Rolex holds a magic like no other and not just because of the bluegrass and Kentucky springtime. It's not because it is the premier 4 Star Event in the western hemisphere either! No-it's the qualifying competition for the 2004 Olympic Games! It's also the 7th competition for the USET Pinnacle trophy, the summit in eventing. International riders will be abundant. In addition to the usual event, there is also a modified three-day for those who have already qualified. (P.S. The United States Equestrian Team will use both of these events as selection trials.) This modified course will consist of the new short form to be introduced at the Games. The distance will be 5700 meters and with the maximum amount of 45 jumping efforts. So make plans today to attend! Call area hotel early as they fill up rather quickly. The Event is April 22-25 in Lexington, KY at the Horse Park. For more information on obtaining tickets contact Equestrian Events, Inc. at (859)254-8123, (859) 254-5116 (fax) or visit the official Rolex Website at rk3de.org. We look forward to seeing you there supporting our wonderful teams and the international spirit and love of the magnificent horse! CCI**** Rolex Trophy - Primmore's Pride/Pippa Funnell (GBR) USET Pinnacle Trophy - Bruce O. Davidson, Jr./Mystic Mike (PA) Coman Trophy - Joanna and Roger Day (GBR) Carimati Cup - Pippa Funnell/Primmore's Pride (GBR) Bank One Trophy - Polly Stockton/Tangleman (GBR) Zeppa International Trophy - Jonathan Holling/Lion King II (FL) Best Conditioned Horse - Moon Man/William Fox-Pitt (GBR)
