It was an exciting day at the Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International in Raeford, NC. The weather was perfect for an event that showcased some amazing cross-country riding. Fans and riders were eager to see the new track designed by Derek di Grazia, who took over from the legendary Ian Stark.
Riders praised Derek’s design. They felt the course was challenging but fair, allowing the horses to respond to each obstacle. Derek is known for his thoughtful approach, which encourages riders to be precise in their techniques. As expected, the course set the stage for thrilling performances, leaving many riders optimistic about their upcoming competitions.
Monica Spencer from New Zealand was the overnight leader but faced challenges early in her ride on the horse Artist. After an unfortunate mistake at a tricky fence, she decided to focus on building her horse’s confidence rather than chasing after points, finishing without further issues.
Meanwhile, Jennie Brannigan, who had been in second place, seized the opportunity. She took her horse, FE Lifestyle, to victory with a final score of 40.3. This marked Jennie’s first 4* win at Carolina and her twelfth win at this level overall. Reflecting on her journey, Jennie spoke about the importance of savoring the victories while balancing the drive to improve constantly.
Just two years prior, Jennie’s experience here was marred by a serious fall that left her injured. “I broke my face at this venue riding him,” she recalled. “Now, to win here feels like a full-circle moment.” Her horse has indeed developed, showcasing both talent and heart throughout their journey together.
Waylon Roberts, who claimed second place with his horse OKE Ruby R, had an interesting path to reach Carolina. After a period of rest to improve Ruby’s condition, they returned stronger and more confident. Waylon underscored the significance of listening to your horse’s needs when it comes to training and competition.
In third place, Allison Springer found herself in the spotlight as her horse No May Moon climbed from 12th place to podium position. With a solid performance, she praised the course design, expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to compete at such a high level. Her bond with her horse and owner Nancy Winter is long-standing, and this achievement meant a lot to both of them.
Fourth-place finisher Ema Klugman, balancing her roles as a full-time attorney and rider, explained how vital it was for her to perform well this weekend. This reflects a growing trend among riders who juggle careers outside of equestrian sports, showcasing their dedication and love for the sport.
Fifth place went to Lindsay Traisnel with her horse Bacyrouge, who displayed a fantastic performance after overcoming various challenges throughout the competition. Lindsay’s story emphasizes the importance of family support as she balances motherhood and her equestrian ambitions.
Lastly, Will Faudree finished sixth with his horse Pfun. This event marked his last at the 4* level, and the emotional weight of saying goodbye to a beloved partner was clear.
Interestingly, no riders achieved clear rounds within the time constraint, which is typical for 4*-S events known for their technical demands. An analysis of the event revealed that many riders prioritized safety and strategic pacing over speed, maintaining the well-being of the horses as a top priority.
As we reflect on this year’s Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International, it’s clear that it was not just a competition. It was a celebration of resilience, partnerships, and the deep bond between riders and their horses. The spirit of the event reminds us that listening to our horses and putting their needs first is crucial for success and fulfillment in equestrian sports.
Check out this related article: Join Brannigan as She Shines at the FE Lifestyle SRF Carolina International CCI4*-S Event!
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