Join Brannigan as She Shines at the FE Lifestyle SRF Carolina International CCI4*-S Event!

Raeford, N.C.—March 15— Jennie Brannigan is celebrating a significant win at the Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International CCI4*-S riding Tim and Nina Gardner’s horse, FE Lifestyle. This event is more than just another competition for her; it represents a pivotal moment in her career and her relationship with her horse.

Brannigan, hailing from West Grove, Pennsylvania, is using this event as a build-up towards either the prestigious Kentucky Three-Day Event or Badminton in England with her seasoned partner, affectionately known as “Foxy.” Despite finishing with 10 time penalties, her score of 40.3 was strong enough to secure first place out of 33 pairs.

“It means a lot,” she reflected on her victory. “It’s easy to overlook these wins while focusing on future goals. But it’s crucial to appreciate the moments when everything aligns.”

Carolina holds a special significance for Brannigan. She remembers placing third here in 2017 with her former horse Cambalda and finishing seventh last year with Foxy. However, she also recalls a tough fall at this venue in 2019, where she suffered serious injuries. “This place has a lot of memories, both good and bad,” she said. “Now to be here again, it’s like coming full circle.”

Her endurance and dedication really shine through. Brannigan has been diligently training Foxy during the winter with only one competition under their belt leading into Carolina. The 15-year-old German Sport Horse is known for his versatility, performing well in events like the $100,000 Sterling Venture Capital Grand-Prix Eventing Showcase earlier this month.

“I’ve won at this level before with other horses, but none have been this exceptional,” she noted, emphasizing Foxy’s talent. “His success reflects the hard work of everyone involved with him.”

Brannigan came into the competition ranked second, trailing Monica Spencer and her horse, Artist. When Spencer faced issues at a jump, Brannigan capitalized on the opportunity to take the lead. What stood out was her ability not to let her competitive spirit interfere with her horse’s wellbeing. “At the end of the day, it’s about doing right by your horse. Winning felt like a bonus,” she explained.

Canada’s Waylon Roberts came in second with OKE Ruby R, scoring 42.1. Roberts had taken a break from competition last year to focus on Ruby’s health, making adjustments to her diet and even seeking specialized veterinary advice. “This was our first real test since making those changes,” he shared, revealing the challenges they faced and emphasizing the importance of adapting to the horse’s needs.

Allison Springer secured third place with her Connemara-Thoroughbred mare, No May Moon. She praised the course’s design and its impact on developing young horses. “Great courses help build a horse’s confidence. I feel blessed to ride such a talented mare,” she said, underscoring the joyful bond with her horse.

This year, out of 33 competitors, 28 completed the course. While there were a few challenges, the event concluded with no serious incidents, a testament to proper training and careful course design. These scores reflect the importance of preparation and adaptability in the sport.

The event not only showcased the athleticism of both horse and rider but highlighted the human stories behind each partnership. As Brannigan put it, “Every victory is built on a journey, and some moments are just too sweet to rush past.”

For more updates from the event, check out the coverage on social media: Facebook | Instagram | TikTok.

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Carolina International, 2025 Carolina International, Jennie Brannigan, FE Lifestyle