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<h2 class="group relative relative pb-3" data-is-streaming="false">1. No combination has ever finished on their dressage score</h2>
Across 122 starters at Tryon since 2020, not one has finished on their dressage score. The cross country time has never been beaten, and the jumping phases have caught out plenty. It is worth watching the <a href="https://usequestrianopen.info/tryon2026/cross-country" target="_blank" rel="noopener">speed horses </a>(Off The Record, Dyri, Shanroe Cooley, QC Diamantaire) on Sunday. If any horse manages to make the time, they will become the first ever at the venue.
 
<div style="text-align: center;"><a style="display: inline-block; background-color: #c8102e; color: #ffffff; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; padding: 12px 24px; border-radius: 4px;" href="https://usequestrianopen.info/tryon2026/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn more in the Tryon Fan Guide</a></div>
<h2 class="group relative relative pb-3" data-is-streaming="false">2. Two horses arrive on long showjumping streaks</h2>
Kynan and Fernhill Bertus arrive at Tryon with the longest incoming clean SJ streaks in the field. Both have nine international rounds in a row without a fault. Both also rank at the top of the adjusted SJ average, meaning those streaks have been built on difficult courses, not easy ones. Watch Friday to see if either makes it ten.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/1d90436c-b7c4-4fad-a54f-4c962a23aab9.jpg?width=2048&amp;height=1589" alt="Kynan Tamie Smith 2025 K3de 539.jpg">
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<h2 class="group relative relative pb-3" data-is-streaming="false">3. Fernhill Bertus: The eight-year-old the data already loves</h2>
This is Fernhill Bertus's first CCI4*-S start. He arrives as the second-highest rated eight-year-old in the world by EquiRatings Elo &mdash; behind only last year's Le Lion d'Angers champion, Brookfield Danny de Muze &mdash; with a completely flawless record across nine international starts. Not a single jumping fault, cross country or show jumping, in any of them.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/776a8093-c3e7-486f-b168-48c2b3af6f05.jpg?width=4768&amp;height=4047" alt="C E5 A1840">
Madison Temkin, 25, produced three top-10 finishes from four runs aboard him in 2025. In 2026, their one international start (Stable View CCI3*-S) resulted in a podium finish. Everything about this combination suggests a horse ready for the step up. Everything about this combination suggests a horse ready for the step up and a big result this weekend could put Fernhill Bertus top of the global eight-year-old rankings. Watch closely.
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<h2 class="group relative relative pb-3" data-is-streaming="false">4. Off The Record: Appreciate Every Time You Get to Watch Him</h2>
At <a href="https://usequestrianopen.info/tryon2026/who-wins--top-scores" target="_blank" rel="noopener">31% win chance</a>, Off The Record heads into Tryon as the statistical favorite. At 17, with Aachen on the horizon, this is his first international run of 2026 - a confident, clean outing may matter more than the result this weekend. But go watch 'Timmy'. He is one of the most consistent horses the US has ever produced, and these opportunities to see him compete don't come around often.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/1bb7dee1-eab4-4a99-b231-1c7ce6d8545c.jpg?width=2048&amp;height=1472" alt="Off the Record 2025 Will Coleman and off the Record">
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">&nbsp;</h2>
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">5. Four of the top five are here and the points are big</h2>
Four of the top five on the <a href="https://us.equestrian-hub.com/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Series leaderboard </a>&mdash; Tamie Smith (205 pts), Will Coleman (170 pts), Boyd Martin (160 pts), and Lucienne Bellissimo (140 pts) &mdash; are all in the Tryon start list. With 31 starters confirmed, 50 points are on offer for the winner, the maximum available at any qualifier, and exactly the kind of weekend that impacts Series positions.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/f4c60395-4300-4ffc-a11d-a722b69c73c4.png?width=717&amp;height=397" alt="Points Scale for Blog Inserts">
The predictions back it up. Will Coleman &amp; Off The Record lead on win chance at 31%. Lucienne Bellissimo &amp; Dyri sit at 20%. She also brings Kitsch Couture HPK. Tamie Smith holds three entries &mdash; Danito, Kynan, &amp; Spiro P &mdash; giving her the highest combined probability in the field. Boyd brings Shanroe Cooley (5%) and Fetiche Des Rouges.&nbsp;
 
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/918041ac-8f31-4848-9220-f17a25350f77.png?width=1009&amp;height=523" alt="Screenshot 2026 05 06 120004">
Fifty points. Four title contenders. This qualifier is likely to have a huge impact on the <a href="https://us.equestrian-hub.com/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener">leaderboard.</a>
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The mission of the US Equestrian Open is to grow and foster a deeper connection to equestrian sport by delivering a premier, unified championship series that engages a broader fanbase through top-level competition, storytelling, and a dynamic, entertaining experience.
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Will Coleman & Off The Record at the US Equestrian Open Final last year.

5 storylines to follow at Tryon this weekend

<h2>Dressage: Kohmann &amp; Famous win at TerraNova on a borrowed freestyle&nbsp;</h2>
Next Qualifier: Mid Atlantic Dressage Festival (May 14) | The Final:&nbsp;Desert Dressage, Thermal CA (November 13)
Kevin Kohmann &amp; Famous won Saturday's Grand Prix Freestyle at TerraNova with 74.635% - a personal best for the horse and a six-point lift over their Grand Prix score the day before. The field had narrowed considerably by then: Monica Burssens and Sahar Daniel Hirosh&nbsp;were both eliminated in the Grand Prix, and Susan Dutta withdrew before the freestyle, leaving Kohmann and Micah Deligdish to contest the class. Deligdish &amp; Carpe Diem De Massa finished second at 69.610%, also a personal best for the horse.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DX645oKkVJA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/e9d833b4-ce55-42b3-a5c3-241913dc99f0.png?width=697&amp;height=847" alt="Screenshot 2026 05 05 143603"></a>
Needing a freestyle for Famous, Kohmann went looking through old music. Normally, he&rsquo;d borrow his wife Devon Kane&rsquo;s music, but that had already been given to Deligdish, who he was competing against. So, he landed on the original Avicii freestyle he rode at the World Cup Final with Duenensee. He rode it once at home, it fit, and he went for it.&nbsp;
"I love the music and it worked out," he said afterward, noting that Famous handled the loud music and the looming storm without issue. The show adjusted the class time around the weather, and it stayed dry. Kohmann closed with one-handed passage into the final halt - a deliberate degree-of-difficulty play that paid off.
The result moves Kohmann to 9th in the Series with three qualifiers completed. Deligdish climbs to 27th, still well outside the top-18 finals cutoff.
<a href="https://us.equestrian-hub.com/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/f095399a-4e44-4809-893e-afef5483707d.png?width=1098&amp;height=1164" alt="0t C X7 Leaderboard of the Us Equestrian Open of Dressage (1)"></a>
The Series returns in two weeks at the Mid Atlantic Dressage Festival in Lexington, KY.
<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/dressage" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/df3afaab-1f25-4fab-a1dc-c46c608169fb.png?width=1080&amp;height=171" alt="Read More Dressage"></a>
<h2 data-section-id="bkawl6" data-start="412" data-end="449">&nbsp;</h2>
<h2>Eventing: Tryon&rsquo;s big field makes this a key week in the Series</h2>
Next Qualifier:&nbsp;Tryon International (May 6)&nbsp;| The Final:&nbsp;Morven Park 4*-L, Virginia (October 8th)
With over 25 entries, the Tryon qualifier this weekend class reaches the higher points band meaning 50 points to the winner rather than 40. Last year, this event had just 16 starters. This year, it steps into a different category entirely. It is now one of the few qualifiers this season to exceed that mark.
A full preview article is coming later this week, but even an early look at the entries suggests a highly competitive field that will have an impact at the top of the leaderboard.
Off The Record &amp; Will Coleman heads the entries and Win Chance. A combination that need no introduction, having finished second in last year&rsquo;s Final, only missing the win with a rail on the final day. This will be his first international start of the season, likely part of a light campaign ahead of Aachen, but the quality is established.
Lucienne Bellissimo brings two entries, Dyri and Kitsch Couture HPK.&nbsp;She sits within reach of the top of the leaderboard and will be targeting points here. With two horses in a high-value qualifier, the opportunity is significant.
Last years Series winner Boyd Martin is entered with two rides, as well as the current Series leader Tamie Smith is also well represented. She has three entries in the field, including two rerouted from Kentucky.&nbsp;
<a href="https://us.equestrian-hub.com/us-equestrian-open" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/05e29bc4-7a50-441e-bd03-1f503445c1c3.png?width=1098&amp;height=1164" alt="Ny3sf Leaderboard of the Us Equestrian Open of Eventing "></a>
<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/eventing" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/254e09dd-d92e-4194-986b-baf0dbd8460b.png?width=1080&amp;height=158" alt="Read More Eventing"></a>
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<h2>Jumping: Farrington wins again&nbsp;</h2>
Kent Farrington needed sixth place or better in Monterrey to win the Major League series. He finished third. It secures his second Major League Show Jumping individual title and brings the season back in line with the underlying numbers. Farrington has been the most consistent rider across the series &mdash; more wins, more podiums &mdash; and the final result reflects that.
The Grand Prix itself went to Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA) and Prins van&rsquo;t Eigenlo, who proved untouchable in the jump-off. Marilyn Little finished second, just 0.13 seconds behind, while Farrington rounded out the podium in third-place.&nbsp;
From a US perspective, three riders finished inside the top 10. Little (2nd), Farrington (3rd), and Natalie Dean (10th) &mdash; all of whom competed at WEF this winter &mdash; underline the strength of that Wellington group translating form onto a five-star final stage.
<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/jumping" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/eeee484b-ef16-4e10-9de3-6d72b0a7f0c7.png?width=1080&amp;height=161" alt="Read More Jumping"></a>
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<h2 data-path-to-node="4">Stay in the loop with The Open Weekly</h2>
Thanks for joining us for this week's edition! Don't forget: a fresh update of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/the-open-weekly" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Open Weekly</a>&nbsp;drops on the site&nbsp;every Tuesday.
<h3 data-path-to-node="9">Join the Conversation</h3>
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<h3 data-path-to-node="6">Go Beyond the Article</h3>
Catch the latest insights and expert interviews on the&nbsp;<a href="https://sites.libsyn.com/559710" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US Equestrian Open Podcast.</a>&nbsp;
<h3>The Mission of the Open&nbsp;</h3>
The US Equestrian Open was born from a strategic&nbsp;Board of Directors decision in 2023 to build a permanent legacy for US&nbsp;Equestrian sport.&nbsp;Its mission is to grow and foster a deeper connection to equestrianism by delivering a premier, unified championship series in the Olympic disciplines.&nbsp; With top-level competition, storytelling, and a dynamic, entertaining experience, the&nbsp;vision is to transform disparate events into a cohesive, narrative-driven season.&nbsp;The series is anchored by&nbsp;core values which include fan-first accessibility, competitive integrity, storytelling, and a dynamic&nbsp;entertaining experience onsite

The Open Weekly: Kohmann wins at TerraNova and Tryon draws a big field

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<h2 class="standard-markdown grid-cols-1 grid [&amp;_&gt;_*]:min-w-0 gap-3 standard-markdown">Eventing: Tamie Smith makes it two in a row to take the Series lead</h2>
Next Qualifier: Tryon International (May 6)&nbsp;| The Final: Morven Park 4*-L, Virginia (October 8th)
Tamie Smith&nbsp;and&nbsp;Lillet 3 won the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S at Kentucky to secure back-to-back wins for Smith following her Ocala victory a week earlier. After dressage she sat third on 29.7. It was cross-country that changed the picture. Lillet 3 added just 1.6 time penalties (the fastest round of the day from 31 starters) to move into the lead heading into show jumping. From there, she held it. Smith and Lillet 3 were the only combination to jump clear within the time. A 31.3 final score and 50 points banked.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/4dda56bd-176d-4a1d-b81b-88a86335dd70.png?width=697&amp;height=846" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 28 114843">
Two wins in two weekends saw a huge points boost. She now leads the 2026 Series on 205 points, 20 clear of Caroline Pamukcu on 185. For the full picture on why everything points firmly in her direction for the rest of the season, read our feature here: <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/tamies-on-top-with-a-west-coast-advantage" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tamie's on top and has a West Coast advantage</a>
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/f87bb6d0-d6fd-4b81-b392-c797d1baf01c.png?width=1080&amp;height=974" alt="Open Weekly Quotes (9)">
<h3 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">The Podium</h3>
Second place went to&nbsp;Will Coleman&nbsp;and&nbsp;Very Dignified - a mare produced in Ireland with Robbie Kearns and is now who showing real promise for the Coleman Team. Will and 'Dora' who were on the podium at the US Equestrian Open Final last year, are still building their partnership, but she is a horse to keep a close eye on as that relationship develops. Third went to Mia Farley&nbsp;and&nbsp;Invictus, who delivered a strong show jumping clear to complete the podium on 38.3.&nbsp;
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<div class="w-fit" data-state="closed"><a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/eventing" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/254e09dd-d92e-4194-986b-baf0dbd8460b.png?width=1080&amp;height=158" alt="Read More Eventing"></a></div>
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<h2>&nbsp;</h2>
<h2>Dressage: Williams wins and Holzer leads after WEC Ocala</h2>
Next Qualifier: TerraNova (April 30)&nbsp;| The Final:&nbsp;Desert Dressage, Thermal CA (November 13)
Jennifer Williams &amp; Joppe K won the CDI4* Grand Prix Freestyle at WEC Ocala with a 75.460%. Ashley Holzer &amp; Hawtins San Floriana finished second at 74.880%, enough to take the lead in the US Equestrian Open of Dressage. Frederic Wandres, not competing, watched the Series lead pass to Holzer: 51 points to his 49.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/29981285-ad67-41f5-825f-8612fd0fa09b.png?width=700&amp;height=847" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 28 131735">
Holzer not only needed a top-two finish to take the Series lead, but also needed Claire Darnell to finish outside the top 3. She got it. Hawtins still hasn't won a Grand Prix Freestyle, but second place accomplished what mattered this week. Williams, meanwhile, posted another score squarely in her recent range. Her 41 points move her into sixth on the leaderboard.
Darnell and Harrold S finished sixth at 68.425%, well below the form she's shown this season. It didn't affect her Series total &mdash; she'd already completed four qualifiers, so the score didn't count &mdash; but it didn't help, either. She sits third at 47, two points behind Wandres and four behind Holzer, with her window to change that narrowing. Jordan LaPlaca &amp; Gold Play posted a 72.250% in their Grand Prix Freestyle debut together.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/30973477-eb65-4a70-8844-e7acfbbad0bd.png?width=1240&amp;height=714" alt="Gl Jzk Current Leaderboard of the Us Equestrian Open of Dressage (1)"> 
<h2 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/dressage" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/3c1ea641-4e2f-4bda-9592-bac6f8b526cf.png?width=1080&amp;height=171" alt="Read More Dressage"></a></h2>
<h2>&nbsp;</h2>
<h2>Jumping: Farrington does it again and introduces a new star</h2>
Kent Farrington won the $340,000 Kentucky International CSI5* Grand Prix on Saturday night but the headline wasn't just the result. It was the horse.
Descartes SR is nine years old and this was his first five-star Grand Prix. Farrington set the pace going first in the jump-off, stopping the clock at 39.92 seconds. From there, no one could catch him. McLain Ward&nbsp; &amp; High Star Hero pushed hardest at 40.42, with Shane Sweetnam &amp; James Kann Cruz completing the podium in third at 40.71.
The context around all three results adds texture. Ward was making his return from injury - his first competition in seven weeks after a fall in Week 10 at Wellington, by his own admission "mildly against doctor's orders." Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz, secure another podium to continue to prove themselves as the most consistent five-star combinations in the world.
But the story of the night was Farrington's newly minted five-star Grand Prix horse. Descartes SR was sourced from Mexico on the recommendation of Francisco Pasquel. Nine years old, first five-star, and he won it.&nbsp;
<blockquote>
"He has an incredible stride. He covers ground like a racehorse and still has the power to give a lofty jump at the final fence, which is a rare combination of attributes in a horse. I had a lot of trust in him to the last fence.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
There will be more to come from this one.
<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/jumping" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/eeee484b-ef16-4e10-9de3-6d72b0a7f0c7.png?width=1080&amp;height=161" alt="Read More Jumping"></a>
<h2 data-path-to-node="4">&nbsp;</h2>
<h2 data-path-to-node="4">Stay in the loop with The Open Weekly</h2>
Thanks for joining us for this week's edition! Don't forget: a fresh update of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/the-open-weekly" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Open Weekly</a>&nbsp;drops on the site&nbsp;every Tuesday.
<h3 data-path-to-node="9">Join the Conversation</h3>
Follow us for daily highlights, behind-the-scenes content, and live updates:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/useqopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>
<h3 data-path-to-node="6">Go Beyond the Article</h3>
Catch the latest insights and expert interviews on the&nbsp;<a href="https://sites.libsyn.com/559710" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US Equestrian Open Podcast.</a>&nbsp;
<h3>The Mission of the Open&nbsp;</h3>
The US Equestrian Open was born from a strategic&nbsp;Board of Directors decision in 2023 to build a permanent legacy for US&nbsp;Equestrian sport.&nbsp;Its mission is to grow and foster a deeper connection to equestrianism by delivering a premier, unified championship series in the Olympic disciplines.&nbsp; With top-level competition, storytelling, and a dynamic, entertaining experience, the&nbsp;vision is to transform disparate events into a cohesive, narrative-driven season.&nbsp;The series is anchored by&nbsp;core values which include fan-first accessibility, competitive integrity, storytelling, and a dynamic&nbsp;entertaining experience onsite

The Open Weekly Graphic with Tamie Smith & Lillet 3 on it

The Open Weekly: Smith and Holzer take the Series leads

Eleven qualifiers in. Two wins in a row. A leaderboard lead of 205 points over Caroline Pamukcu on 185. If there was any doubt about who the 2026 US Equestrian Open of Eventing Series favorite is, Tamie Smith has spent the last two weekends removing it.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/c09f80e8-7dc8-4c6b-a734-019d145f71c5.png?width=1234&amp;height=1212" alt="W1 N Zj Leaderboard of the Us Equestrian Open of Eventing Nbsp (2)">
Three weeks ago, we called it (read the full article<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/six-horses-two-weekends-why-tamie-smith-is-the-series-favorite" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> here</a>). Six horses across two back-to-back qualifiers, open scoring slots, and a West Coast calendar that was always going to favor her. The prediction was Tamie Smith wins the 2026 Series. She went to Florida and Kentucky and made believers of anyone who wasn't already.
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<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">How the wins arrived</h2>
At Ocala, Smith steered Jump To Day D to victory in just his second CCI4* appearance, finishing on his dressage score of 31.5 - a feat only three combinations had managed in the event's entire history, all at a previous venue. She also placed fifth with Spiro P on his CCI4* debut. Two horses, two results, 60 points banked.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/7c7ce645-0353-48a5-aac3-7d21f9406bce.png?width=904&amp;height=1099" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 20 121920 (1)">
Then came Kentucky, where Smith &amp; Lillet 3 won the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S with a score of 31.3 - a performance built on precision across all three phases. After dressage, Tamie sat third on 29.7. It was on cross-country day that the race changed.&nbsp;Lillet 3 added just 1.6 time penalties around the course (the fastest round of the day) to move from third into the lead heading into the showjumping. From there, she held it. Of 31 pairs to jump&nbsp;Guilherme Jorge's course, Tamie and Lillet 3 were the only combination to go clear within the time.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/e087b808-6ca6-488f-a2a0-978352401e22.png?width=697&amp;height=846" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 28 114843">
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">&nbsp;</h2>
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">Why the big wins matter most</h2>
In a series where the points scale is tiered by field size, winning big is not just better, it's structurally different. A win in a field of more than 25 starters pays 50 points. Win a smaller qualifier and you're getting 40. The ten-point gap compounds across a season.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/f4c60395-4300-4ffc-a11d-a722b69c73c4.png?width=717&amp;height=397" alt="Points Scale for Blog Inserts">
Look at how Boyd Martin built his winning 260-point campaign in 2025. His platform was the large-field qualifiers: a win and multiple top-four finishes in fields of 25-plus. He didn't even need two outright wins in those events to get there. Tamie already has two - Kentucky and Carolina, both with&nbsp;Lillet 3. That is a stronger foundation than Boyd had at the same stage.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/8a0429b4-0bcf-4a78-ab57-2148d4ba6e97.png?width=1080&amp;height=1189" alt="Series Podium (1)">
&nbsp;
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">Tryon International Three Day Event</h2>
But the opportunity for big points isn't finished yet either. In two weeks, Tryon will field a 25+ field and Tamie will compete with Ferrie's Cello and Spiro P.&nbsp; She arrives with two more shots at a maximum score before the season tips into the West Coast stretch.
&nbsp;
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">The West Coast factor</h2>
Here is where Tamie's campaign takes on a different shape to anyone trying to chase her.
The second half of the season, the calendar tilts west. Rebecca Farm (July 18), Twin Rivers (September 17), and Woodside (October 2) are all West Coast events. Historically, they draw smaller fields. That is not a weakness, it is an opportunity.
Smaller fields mean wins are more attainable. Tamie's current 20-point scores (earned in tough, competitive fields) become very replaceable with 40 point wins on home turf.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">The Call</h2>
Nine qualifiers to go. 205-points. A string of seven horses. Two 50-point wins already banked.&nbsp;Tamie Smith is on course to win the 2026 US Equestrian Open of Eventing Series.
<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/the-open-weekly" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/797de4a4-a9fd-4ef8-8f83-7253791613fc.png?width=4048&amp;height=577" alt="Us Open Blog Inserts"></a>
<h3 data-path-to-node="9">Join the Conversation</h3>
Follow us for daily highlights, behind-the-scenes content, and live updates:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/useqopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>
<h3 data-path-to-node="6">Go Beyond the Article</h3>
Catch the latest insights and expert interviews on the&nbsp;<a href="https://sites.libsyn.com/559710" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US Equestrian Open Podcast.</a>&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The US Equestrian Open was born from a strategic&nbsp;Board of Directors decision in 2023 to build a permanent legacy for US&nbsp;Equestrian sport.&nbsp;Its mission is to grow and foster a deeper connection to equestrianism by delivering a premier, unified championship series in the Olympic disciplines. With top-level competition, storytelling, and a dynamic, entertaining experience, the&nbsp;vision is to transform disparate events into a cohesive, narrative-driven season.&nbsp;The series is anchored by&nbsp;core values which include fan-first accessibility, competitive integrity, storytelling, and a dynamic&nbsp;entertaining experience onsite&nbsp;.

Tamie's on top and has a West Coast advantage

It was a big day on the Kentucky Horse Park cross-country course with a 62% clear rate and an average of 11.2 time penalties, 2.7 more than expected from this class. The course asked questions (mainly at the influential corner), and not everyone had the answers. But the below riders did.
Tamra Smith &amp; Lillet 3 proved the metrics right. Coming in as the fastest horse in the field by <a href="https://usequestrianopen.info/kentucky4s2026/cross-country" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Top Speed Percentage</a> at 95%, they delivered &mdash; picking up just 1.6 time penalties to move into the lead with a combined score of 31.3. Smith goes into the final phase with a 90% win chance on the prediction centre. A win would add 50 points to her series tally and hand her the Series lead, with a 20 point gap to Caroline Pamukcu. The&nbsp;<a href="https://us.equestrian-hub.com/public/championship/eventing/2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">leaderboard </a>implications are significant.
<a href="https://prediction-centre.equiratings.com/competitions/kentucky_4s_2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/ae835a41-976b-41c6-89e8-e70fc6263be8.png?width=964&amp;height=655" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 25 173650"></a>
Will Coleman &amp; Very Dignified, or Dora to those who know her, put in a smashing round, picking up just 4.4 time penalties to sit second. Coleman has spoken warmly about this mare throughout the season, and it is easy to see why. She jumped clear (and inside the time!) at the US Equestrian Open Final and she jumped clear again today. The prediction centre gives her just a 9% win chance but with a 93% top-three chance, a podium looks likely.&nbsp;
Mia Farley &amp; Invictus sit third after a strong round with just 5.6 time penalties. This combination has historically carried significant time penalties &mdash; often into double figures &mdash; but they have been getting faster, and today showed that progress clearly.&nbsp;
The breakout round of the day, though, belonged to Isabelle Cook. Tina Cook's daughter, competing as part of the GB Rising Lions programme, was the fastest combination on course for a spell &mdash; until Smith came out late in the order &mdash; posting just 3.2 time penalties to climb 28 places from 36th to 8th. A remarkable ride that will turn heads.
Tomorrow, show jumping decides it. Lillet 3 leads with a pole in hand. Very Dignified is 4.4 penalties behind. The <a href="https://prediction-centre.equiratings.com/competitions/kentucky_4s_2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener">EquiRatings Prediction Centre</a> has made its call.
&nbsp;
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/334c046f-d772-4b4d-b0e6-1da2cc765efb.png?width=873&amp;height=670" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 25 174450">

Tamie Smith is set to take the Series lead 

Kentucky is East Coast territory. The iconic Kentucky Horse Park, the five-star running simultaneously, the history and the atmosphere - it all belongs to the established order. And yet, scroll through the top ten of today's dressage leaderboard and a different story emerges.
Four of the combinations sitting inside the top ten are based on the West Coast.
Tamra Smith, Temecula-based and in imperious form all season, leads on Danito with a 27.0, sits fourth with Lillet 3, and 13th with Kynan. That was somewhat expected. What perhaps wasn't is the company she's keeping from her own backyard.
Molly Duda, 21 years old, is based with Tamie Smith in Temecula. Not only does she own Lillet 3 for Tamie, but she sits sixth on 31.1 with&nbsp;Carlingfords Hes a Clover - their best four-star dressage test together across seven international starts. The context makes it more impressive. Scoring ran 2.6 penalties above the six-run average (6RA) across both days &mdash; a tough environment &mdash; and yet Carlingfords Hes a Clover beat their own 6RA by 6.4 penalties. The biggest improvement of any combination in the field.
Then there's Tommy Greengard, 26, based in Malibu, who arrives with two horses and sits equal seventh on 31.4 with&nbsp;That's Me Z. That same combination finished 17th here last year. He also has Balladeer Kilbrickens Lad in the field &mdash; a horse that won his first four-star at Galway Downs just weeks ago sitting in 26th on a 36.3. One to watch tomorrow as he takes on the cross-country with two relatively inexperienced horses who show great promise. Hear from Tommy Greengard on the US Equestrian Open Podcast <a href="https://pod.fo/e/3f8f36" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here.</a>
This is exactly what the US Equestrian Open was built for. A series that gives West Coast-based (and young!) riders, not just a reason to make the trip east, but a genuine shot at competing with &mdash; and beating &mdash; the best in the country. Duda and Greengard are not here to make up the numbers. They are here because of the Series pathway, and they are walking it.
Cross-country tomorrow will ask different questions. But the West Coast has already made its point.&nbsp; Read more on why EquiRatings think its possible to win the US Equestrian Open Series from the West Coast: <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/is-the-us-equestrian-open-winnable-from-the-west-coast" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/is-the-us-equestrian-open-winnable-from-the-west-coast</a>

West Coast contenders deliver in the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S

Tamie Smith is doing what Tamie Smith seems to do. She leads on Danito with a 27.0 &mdash; exactly his six-run average (6RA), delivered on cue &mdash; and sits joint third with&nbsp;Lillet 3 on 29.9 and 13th with Kynan. Lillet 3 leads the <a href="https://prediction-centre.equiratings.com/competitions/kentucky_4s_2026/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Prediction Centre </a>and is certainly one to watch tomorrow with a serious chance at making the time. Three horses and three solid positions. The points Tamie could gain her may become extremely critical in her <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/six-horses-two-weekends-why-tamie-smith-is-the-series-favorite" target="_blank" rel="noopener">campaign for the Series lead.</a>
<a href="https://prediction-centre.equiratings.com/competitions/kentucky_4s_2026/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/a7447e51-337d-4337-b156-b0afde008c47.png?width=931&amp;height=792" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 24 171623"></a>
Sharon White &amp; Claus 63 were the surprise (and impress!) of the phase. A 28.1 is their second-best four-star test from 20 starts together, behind only the 25.2 they produced at the US Equestrian Open Final at Morven Park last year. They outperformed their 6RA by 4.2 marks to sit second overnight. The <a href="https://prediction-centre.equiratings.com/competitions/kentucky_4s_2026/movement" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Prediction Centre</a> has rewarded them accordingly with a +16% swing in win chance, the biggest post-dressage move in the field, putting them top at 21%.
<a href="https://prediction-centre.equiratings.com/competitions/kentucky_4s_2026/movement" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/27215b29-d617-4f04-9806-261922a0d3fc.png?width=931&amp;height=510" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 24 171702"></a>
Then there is Elizabeth Barratt and Ride for Thais Chaman Dumontceau. The 20-year-old, competing as part of Great Britain's Rising Lions team, posted a 29.7 to sit third &mdash; just under the horse's six-run average of 30. The horse's most recent run before Barratt took over in 2025 was the Paris Olympics with St&eacute;phane Landois, where they scored a 24.4. The horse was also previously produced and ridden by the late Thais Meheust who tragically lost her life in a horseriding accident.&nbsp;
As Barratt grows into the partnership and performing on the bigger stages, the ceiling could be high. No British rider has ever completed this class in its five-year history meaning that Barratt, alongside Rising Lions teammates Finn Healy (35.8, 25th) and Isabelle Cook (39.3, 36th), are aiming to change that.
Cross-country is tomorrow. Tamie Smith is everywhere. Sharon White is on form. And a 20-year-old from Great Britain just announced herself.
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 20px 0;"><a style="display: inline-block; background-color: #1a5fa8; color: #ffffff; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; padding: 14px 28px; border-radius: 6px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://usequestrianopen.info/kentucky4s2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn more about Kentucky in the Fan Guide</a></div>

Tamie's on top and Sharon surges in the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S

The Kentucky Horse Park needs no introduction. One of the most storied venues in eventing, it has hosted some of the sport's most iconic moments and this weekend, the Cosequin&reg; Lexington CCI4*-S returns for its sixth consecutive year.
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 20px 0;"><a style="display: inline-block; background-color: #1a5fa8; color: #ffffff; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; padding: 14px 28px; border-radius: 6px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://usequestrianopen.info/kentucky4s2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn more about Kentucky in the Fan Guide</a></div>
If last year is anything to go by, it will be one of the standout events of the entire series. In 2025, it drew the largest field of any qualifier and ranked in the top three for overall field strength. The 11th qualifier of 2026 is shaping up to match it.
And the timing matters. The leaderboard has been shifting constantly through the opening ten qualifiers, and two of the biggest names in the title race arrive here with serious skin in the game. Tamie Smith, with three entries,&nbsp;and Lucienne Bellissimo, with Kitsch Couture HPK, sit third and fourth in the standings and both still have one open scoring slot. With space for six counting scores each, this could be one of the last chances for either to add a fresh result rather than trying to improve on an existing one.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/87e9abcf-8db2-4446-8f96-373fbcec5349.png?width=712&amp;height=417" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 20 173003">
The points at stake here are also significant. With Kentucky operating on the large qualifier scale, a win is worth 50 points, enough to move either combination sharply up a tight leaderboard.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/f4c60395-4300-4ffc-a11d-a722b69c73c4.png?width=717&amp;height=397" alt="Points Scale for Blog Inserts">
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">&nbsp;</h2>
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">The favorite: Tamie Smith &amp; Lillet 3</h2>
Tamie Smith &amp; Lillet 3 lead The<a href="https://prediction-centre.equiratings.com/competitions/kentucky_4s_2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> EquiRatings Prediction Centre</a> on an 18% Win Chance. The ten-year-old produced the highest High Performance Rating (HPR) recorded at a US Equestrian Open qualifier this season&mdash;a 99 at Carolina&mdash;to win a big, competitive class.
<a href="https://usequestrianopen.info/kentucky4s2026/who-wins--top-scores" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/9fdbd7e8-08a3-4ca0-b77d-7c194ce11292.png?width=1174&amp;height=1678" alt="N4 Ocg Who Wins the Cosequin Lexington Cci4 S "></a>
Tamie arrives with six international wins already this season and serious momentum behind her. She&rsquo;s in form, in rhythm, and riding one of the strongest strings in the country right now. Tamie also brings her experience campaigner Danito (10% Win Chance) and Kynan (3% Win Chance) who finished in the top 10 in this class last year.
Read more about Tamie's 2026 campaign&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/six-horses-two-weekends-why-tamie-smith-is-the-series-favorite" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here.</a>
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/5b0cb64b-8068-48b4-999a-c15a2fc2b2c2.jpg?width=4000&amp;height=2667" alt="Tamie Smith Lillet 3 05449">Tamie Smith &amp; Lillet 3 on the way to winning Carolina CCI4*-S. Photo: Liz Crawley Photography
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">&nbsp;</h2>
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">Course experience: Sydney Elliott and Dan Kreitl</h2>
The two horses below Lillet 3 on the prediction centre bring something the favorite can't claim: a proven track record in this specific class.
Sydney Elliott &amp; QC Diamantaire arrive with a 12% win chance having competed at the Kentucky Horse Park four times with two of those appearances being in the CCI4*-S. They finished third in 2023 and eighth in 2024 with a double clear on both occasions. That kind of consistency over a course of Kentucky's standard is not something to overlook.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/447bcae5-293e-488e-b18f-1d3cb098a595.png?width=1536&amp;height=748" alt="M6 Hq I Qc Diamantaire S Record at Kentucky Horse Park ">
On a 11% win chance, Dan Kreitl and Carmango have a strong record at this venue, finishing fourth in 2022 and fifth in 2023. In 2022, they led the class after cross-country before an unlucky show jumping phase dropped them out of the medals but they came back the following year and jumped clear, proof that this course holds no demons for them.
After missing the entire 2025 international season, they returned at the TerraNova qualifier with a convincing third-place finish, starting on a 21 in the dressage. That mark is the lowest four-star dressage score recorded globally in 2026 so far.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/3ed71fed-7af3-4d79-85e0-aa3e0fcc4ed0.png?width=1536&amp;height=536" alt="S Jyyv Carmango S Record at Kentucky Horse Park ">
These two combinations account for the only horses in this field with a top-five finish at this competition. That track record earns its place in any preview, win chance aside.
&nbsp;
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 20px 0;"><a style="display: inline-block; background-color: #1a5fa8; color: #ffffff; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; padding: 14px 28px; border-radius: 6px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://usequestrianopen.info/kentucky4s2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn more about Kentucky in the Fan Guide</a></div>
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">Quick Access Links:</h2>
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Results: <a href="https://www.kentuckythreedayevent.com/results" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Results Link</a></li>
<li>Start Times: <a href="https://www.kentuckythreedayevent.com/entries-and-ride-times" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Start Time Link</a></li>
<li>Live Stream: <a href="https://www.clipmyhorse.tv/en_EU/events/18573/2026-defender-kentucky-three-day-event-the-kentucky-international-csi5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Live Stream Link</a></li>
<li>Watch Kentucky for free with a USEF memberships: <a href="https://www.usef.org/membership/join-renew" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get a free Fan membership</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/797de4a4-a9fd-4ef8-8f83-7253791613fc.png?width=4048&amp;height=577" alt="Us Open Blog Inserts">
<h3 data-path-to-node="9">Join the Conversation</h3>
Follow us for daily highlights, behind-the-scenes content, and live updates:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/useqopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>
<h3 data-path-to-node="6">Go Beyond the Article</h3>
Catch the latest insights and expert interviews on the&nbsp;<a href="https://sites.libsyn.com/559710" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US Equestrian Open Podcast.</a>&nbsp;
The Mission of the Open The US Equestrian Open was born from a strategic Board of Directors decision in 2023 to build a permanent legacy for US Equestrian sport.
Its mission is to grow and foster a deeper connection to equestrianism by delivering a premier, unified championship series in the Olympic disciplines.&nbsp;
With top-level competition, storytelling, and a dynamic, entertaining experience, the vision is to transform disparate events into a cohesive, narrative-driven season. The Series is anchored by core values which include fan-first accessibility, competitive integrity, storytelling, and a dynamic entertaining experience onsite.

Tamie Smith & Lillet 3 cross-country at Carolina

Who wins the Cosequin® Lexington CCI4*-S?

Five editions in and the <a href="https://usequestrianopen.info/kentucky4s2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cosequin&reg; Lexington CCI4*-S&nbsp;</a>has established itself as one of the most competitive CCI4*-S classes in the US. Over the past five years, the field has grown in size, strength, and prestige. This weekend, two of those winners return looking to add their names to the list again.
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 20px 0;"><a style="display: inline-block; background-color: #1a5fa8; color: #ffffff; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; padding: 14px 28px; border-radius: 6px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://usequestrianopen.info/kentucky4s2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn more about Kentucky in the Fan Guide</a></div>
 <img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/1a9dcdb9-cadf-4136-b1df-fcab4615adef.png?width=1196&amp;height=972" alt="Dqe Gz Who S Won Before (1)">
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">The back-to-back champion: Will Coleman</h2>
Will Coleman has won this class more than anyone having had back-to-back victories on two different horses, Diabolo in 2024 and Off The Record in 2025. He also finished third in 2024 with Off The Record, meaning he held first and third on the podium that year. Diabolo is in the five-star this week, and Off The Record has yet to compete internationally this season, likely being managed carefully on the road to World Championship selection.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/835ef1d4-cbe6-453a-a463-9be6c866f0bf.jpeg?width=2500&amp;height=2014" alt="Copy of C Y6 A0108">Will Coleman &amp; Diabolo winning the 2024 edition of the Cosequin&reg; Lexington CCI4*-S
Coleman brings two other rides this year: Fahrenheit Addict and Very Dignified. Fahrenheit Addict is relatively inexperienced at the level, with just four previous CCI4* runs, and this will certainly be a step up in both atmosphere and intensity for the 11-year-old.
<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/mikki-dora-and-six-boyd-will-and-caroline-three-exciting-partnerships-from-the-us-equestrian-open-eventing-final" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Very Dignified&nbsp;or &lsquo;Dora&rsquo;</a> did something no other combination managed at last year&rsquo;s US Equestrian Open Final: she finished on her dressage score (FOD) to take third place. The ability to FOD stands out given the history of this class. It has only happened twice before&mdash;Hot Bobo in 2023 and Diabolo in 2024&mdash;and on both occasions, it led to the win.
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/13cdffba-f4af-41c8-b81a-16c17c83c94a.jpg?width=4160&amp;height=2775" alt="Very Dignified Will Coleman. Credit Devyn Trethewey &amp; Us Equestrian. From Open Final 2025 (2)">Will Coleman &amp; Very Dignified at the 2025 US Equestrian Open Final
&nbsp;
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">The inaugural winner: Alyssa Phillips</h2>
Alyssa Phillips is back for the first time since she took the first-ever edition of this class aboard&nbsp;Oskar in 2021. She returns this time with Rockett 19 - a horse <a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/the-crystal-ball-how-data-predicts-the-next-generation-of-us-superstars" target="_blank" rel="noopener">EquiRatings has flagged as one to watch</a> for some time. He made his four-star debut at TerraNova earlier this season, scoring a 27 in dressage and jumping clear before picking up time penalties on cross-country, though he was held on course so that figure may not tell the full story. Together they have scored as low as 22.3 (albeit at three-star) and they have never finished outside the top ten in an international start.&nbsp;
<img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/9d7c80a1-bcec-4a69-92e8-89663bb6e1ba.jpg?width=null&amp;height=null" alt="C E5 A8517">Alyssa Phillips &amp; Oskar competing at Aachen in 2024
<h2 data-path-to-node="9">Check out the Fan Guide</h2>
An <a href="https://usequestrianopen.info/kentucky4s2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener">EquiRatings fan guide</a> does more than list who's entered: it tells you who's actually favoured and why, using win percentages, Elo ratings, and form data you won't find anywhere else in one place.
It gives context to every phase: who to watch on the dressage leaderboard, who's built for cross-country, and where the competition could turn.
Read it in a few minutes and you'll follow the weekend like someone who knows the sport inside out.
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 20px 0;"><a style="display: inline-block; background-color: #1a5fa8; color: #ffffff; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; padding: 14px 28px; border-radius: 6px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://usequestrianopen.info/kentucky4s2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn more about Kentucky in the Fan Guide</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 20px 0;">&nbsp;</div>
<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">Quick Access Links:</h2>
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Results: <a href="https://www.kentuckythreedayevent.com/results" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Results Link</a></li>
<li>Start Times: <a href="https://www.kentuckythreedayevent.com/entries-and-ride-times" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Start Time Link</a></li>
<li>Live Stream: <a href="https://www.clipmyhorse.tv/en_EU/events/18573/2026-defender-kentucky-three-day-event-the-kentucky-international-csi5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Live Stream Link</a></li>
<li>Watch Kentucky for free with a USEF memberships: <a href="https://www.usef.org/membership/join-renew" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get a free Fan membership</a></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
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<h3 data-path-to-node="9">Join the Conversation</h3>
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Catch the latest insights and expert interviews on the&nbsp;<a href="https://sites.libsyn.com/559710" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US Equestrian Open Podcast.</a>&nbsp;
The Mission of the Open The US Equestrian Open was born from a strategic Board of Directors decision in 2023 to build a permanent legacy for US Equestrian sport.
Its mission is to grow and foster a deeper connection to equestrianism by delivering a premier, unified championship series in the Olympic disciplines.&nbsp;
With top-level competition, storytelling, and a dynamic, entertaining experience, the vision is to transform disparate events into a cohesive, narrative-driven season. The Series is anchored by core values which include fan-first accessibility, competitive integrity, storytelling, and a dynamic entertaining experience onsite.

Will Coleman & Off The Record winning at Kentucky in 2025

Cosequin® Lexington: Who's won and who's back?

<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">Eventing: Two FODs from two winners, and a leaderboard that's moving fast</h2>
Next Qualifier: Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S (April 22) |&nbsp;The Final: Morven Park 4*-L, October 8th
It was a weekend that produced two winners, leaderboard movement, and a statistical rarity that happened twice in the same weekend across two different venues. The double-header delivered.
<h3 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">Fair Hill: Pamukcu &amp; HSH Double Sixteen catch the clock</h3>
Caroline Pamukcu &amp; HSH Double Sixteen won the Fair Hill CCI4*-S by doing what almost nobody does at this venue, making the cross-country time. They were only the second combination in Fair Hill history to do so across 143 starters, and they finished on their dressage score (FOD) of 37.7 as a result. It was the second FOD of the 2026 Series, following&nbsp;Lucienne Bellissimo&nbsp;&amp; Dyri at Stable View a fortnight ago.
Read the full review of Caroline's win<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/caroline-pamukcu-hsh-double-sixteen-speed-to-the-top-at-fair-hill" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> here.</a>
<h3 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">Ocala: Smith steers Jump To Day D to a win in just his second 4*</h3>
Down in Florida, Tamie Smith &amp; Jump To Day D won the Ocala CCI4*-S and they did it with an FOD of their own, finishing on their dressage score of 31.5. Just three combinations had ever finished on their dressage score in this event&rsquo;s history, all before the move from the Ocala Jockey Club. Smith becomes the fourth and the first at this venue (Ocala Festival of Eventing). She also placed fifth with Spiro P on his four-star debut.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DXVVQdCjGpt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/7ac6f3c2-8f6f-47f0-953a-d91cb150d951.png?width=904&amp;height=1099" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 20 121920"></a>
Read more on EquiRatings' prediction that Tamie Smith will win the 2026 Series<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/stories/six-horses-two-weekends-why-tamie-smith-is-the-series-favorite" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> here.</a>
<h3 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">The Leaderboard</h3>
Caroline Pamukcu extends her lead to 185 points, while Boyd Martin moves into second on 160 after finishing second and third at Fair Hill. Tamie Smith jumps to third on 155 and heads to Kentucky with three horses entered. With neither Caroline nor Boyd competing in the US Equestrian Open qualifier this week, this could be Tamie&rsquo;s chance to get ahead.
<a href="https://us.equestrian-hub.com/public/championship/eventing/2" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/c56d96de-cd72-42a9-94a1-6d9c3c125ab4.png?width=706&amp;height=495" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 21 100037"></a>
<h3 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">What's Next</h3>
This is it... the countdown to the&nbsp;"Best Weekend All Year" is nearly over. As the horse trailers roll (and planes land!) into the Kentucky Horse Park, everyone is buzzing from a weekend of dual-coast qualifiers that dramatically shifted the leaderboard. There will be plenty of content across the week from previews, predictions, form guides, and more. So stay tuned on <a href="usequestrianopen.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">usequestrianopen.org</a>, socials and the <a href="https://sites.libsyn.com/559710" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US Equestrian Open Podcast</a>
<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/254e09dd-d92e-4194-986b-baf0dbd8460b.png?width=1080&amp;height=158" alt="Read More Eventing"></a>
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<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">Jumping: Greya becomes the highest-rated horse in the world</h2>
If you have noticed how often we have mentioned Greya this year, we're not sorry. When a horse becomes the highest-rated in the world, it's worth talking about. We have been calling her Greya the Great for a number of month but the numbers have now made it official.
After winning both the $1M Rolex US Equestrian Open Grand Prix and the FEI World Cup Final at Fort Worth, the EquiRatings Elo rankings have a new world number one. Greya sits at 787 - two points clear of Point Break and United Touch S, who are both on 785. The best horse in the world right now is Kent Farrington's mare.
<a href="https://www.equiratings.com/top-horses/jumping-current" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/7d417a59-af4e-49bc-80dc-d9f08c06de5d.png?width=1434&amp;height=1554" alt="9d Wo1 the Current Top 10 Elo Rated Horses in the World 20 04 2026 "></a>
The climb has been rapid and recent. Greya moved from 777 to 781 after the Rolex US Equestrian Open Grand Prix in Wellington. The World Cup Final in Fort Worth pushed her from 781 to 787. Two major wins in the space of three weeks, and a global ranking to show for it.
Toulayna sits fourth in the world on 783 after her role in Thursday's speed class at Fort Worth. Farrington now holds two of the four highest-rated horses globally.
<a href="https://www.equiratings.com/top-horses/jumping-all-time" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/62ef62a8-848f-482e-a8a7-e1e38ad66462.png?width=1698&amp;height=1662" alt="P1t2o the Top 10 Us Elo Rated Horses of All Time Since 2010 "></a>
It also makes her the highest-rated US horse of all time since EquiRatings began tracking in 2010, clearing the previous US record of 784 held by McLain Ward's HH Azur at her peak in 2018. HH Azur set that bar as a World Cup champion herself, winning on home soil in Omaha in 2017 and claiming multiple WEF five-star Grand Prix including the Week 12 final in 2019. She was the standard for what a US horse could be.&nbsp;Greya has now surpassed it.
<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/jumping" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/eeee484b-ef16-4e10-9de3-6d72b0a7f0c7.png?width=1080&amp;height=161" alt="Read More Jumping"></a>
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<h2 class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]">Dressage: Schwartsman Sets a Personal Best at Del Mar</h2>
Next Qualifier: WEC Ocala (April 24)&nbsp;| The Final: Desert Dressage, Thermal CA (November)
Nadine Schwartsman &amp; Royal Flash R won Saturday's CDI3* Grand Prix Freestyle at Del Mar with a 73.675%, marking a personal best for both horse and rider. Almost exactly a year ago, their freestyle debut together produced a 67.990%. Nearly six points of separation in twelve months is no small achievement.
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DXXZr31AAUj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/72990c18-68c7-47cc-8a80-18273b3b480d.png?width=702&amp;height=847" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 21 101416"></a>
G&uuml;nter Seidel &amp; Equirelle finished second at 71.455%, their second freestyle score of the season after withdrawing from the March qualifier. Kristina Harrison-Antell &amp; Finley were third at 70.730%, a step back toward form after the 68.835% in March that raised questions. Cyndi Jackson &amp; Florisson, who won this class a month ago,&nbsp;were fourth at 68.700%.
<a href="https://us.equestrian-hub.com/public/championship/dressage/708" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/5a83ab82-1eec-4619-8c8a-7baec6a9a488.png?width=709&amp;height=373" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 21 101140"></a>
Schwartsman moves to 12th with 31 points and Jackson to 13th with 29, both with three of four qualifying scores banked. Those are good positions to be in with only seven qualifiers left. The window for anyone outside the top 18 to mount a late campaign is narrowing as the schedule thins into summer. For these two, one more west coast stop remains on the calendar&mdash;the Ginny Rattner Memorial in Oregon&mdash;and that's a straightforward opportunity to solidify or improve upon their leaderboard position.
<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/dressage" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://usef-admin.fly.dev/assets/df3afaab-1f25-4fab-a1dc-c46c608169fb.png?width=1080&amp;height=171" alt="Read More Dressage"></a>
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<h2 data-path-to-node="4">Stay in the loop with The Open Weekly</h2>
Thanks for joining us for this week's edition! Don't forget: a fresh update of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usequestrianopen.org/categories/the-open-weekly" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Open Weekly</a>&nbsp;drops on the site&nbsp;every Tuesday.
<h3 data-path-to-node="9">Join the Conversation</h3>
Follow us for daily highlights, behind-the-scenes content, and live updates:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/usequestrianopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/useqopen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X (Twitter)</a>
<h3 data-path-to-node="6">Go Beyond the Article</h3>
Catch the latest insights and expert interviews on the&nbsp;<a href="https://sites.libsyn.com/559710" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US Equestrian Open Podcast.</a>&nbsp;
<h3>The Mission of the Open&nbsp;</h3>
The US Equestrian Open was born from a strategic&nbsp;Board of Directors decision in 2023 to build a permanent legacy for US&nbsp;Equestrian sport.&nbsp;Its mission is to grow and foster a deeper connection to equestrianism by delivering a premier, unified championship series in the Olympic disciplines.&nbsp; With top-level competition, storytelling, and a dynamic, entertaining experience, the&nbsp;vision is to transform disparate events into a cohesive, narrative-driven season.&nbsp;The series is anchored by&nbsp;core values which include fan-first accessibility, competitive integrity, storytelling, and a dynamic&nbsp;entertaining experience onsite.

Eventing