Photo Credits: Amy Dragoo
Spring has arrived, and with it comes a fresh surge of excitement across the global equestrian community.
In this week’s Bridl Weekly, Marie and Chris sit down with a coffee (or two) to reflect on an incredible week of horse sport, inspiring stories, market movements, and cultural shifts shaping the future of the industry.
From the grandeur of five-star eventing in Kentucky to the million-dollar auctions of future racing stars, this episode is a tour through a horse world that feels more vibrant and more human than ever.
Let’s take a deeper look at the highlights.
Five-Star Brilliance at the Kentucky Three-Day Event
The spotlight was firmly on Lexington, Kentucky this past weekend, as one of the world’s only seven five-star eventing competitions delivered everything fans could hope for and more.
Michael Jung, a name synonymous with greatness, shattered records once again. Riding FischerChipmunk FRH, Jung posted an astonishing 18.6 dressage score, the best ever recorded at Kentucky. Despite rainy, muddy conditions that challenged many riders, Jung’s brilliance shone through.
Yet, Kentucky wasn’t just about the leaderboard. Riders like Shannon Lilley reminded us why eventing is the ultimate test of courage and perseverance. Thirteen years after a devastating spinal injury, Lilley made her five-star debut, defying every odd placed in front of her. Her story is a testament to the unbreakable bond between rider, horse, and hope.
As Marie and Chris reflect, Kentucky felt like more than a competition it was a celebration of resilience, new beginnings, and the power of sheer determination.
Showjumping Showdowns Across Two Continents
At the same time, the world’s best showjumpers dazzled audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.
In Lexington, American veteran Aaron Vale set the tone early with a win in the 1.50m Welcome Grand Prix qualifier, beating a jump-off packed with international heavyweights like Christian Kukuk and McLain Ward.
Meanwhile, over in Fontainebleau, France, Le Printemps des Sports Équestres showcased Europe’s elite. With stars like Henrik von Eckermann, Martin Fuchs, and Julien Épaillard on display, the French crowds were treated to a prelude of the battles to come in this European Championship season.
As Marie and Chris discuss, this spring's showjumping season is already revealing new dynamics. While legends continue to dominate, fresh faces like Italy’s Emanuele Camilli (who claimed his first Global Champions Tour Grand Prix win in Mexico City) are rising fast, signaling an exciting generational shift.
Dressage Dreams and New Beginnings
In the world of dressage, it was all about elegance, emotion, and future stars.
Following the stunning victory of Lottie Fry and Glamourdale at the FEI World Cup Final earlier this month, the spotlight has shifted to national and regional circuits as riders prepare for the European Championships.
Fontainebleau’s CDI5* saw strong French performances, while the U.S. unveiled its new Open Dressage Series, aiming to spotlight top talent and build momentum for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Marie and Chris explore how the post-Paris cycle is ushering in a new wave of dressage competitors with rising stars stepping forward even as legends like Isabell Werth and Charlotte Dujardin continue to inspire.
In a sport often dominated by familiar names, it’s thrilling to watch fresh energy entering the ring.
Horse Racing: Dreams Bought at Auction
Spring is not only the season for young horses in showjumping and dressage — it’s prime time for the racing world too.
At the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Spring Sale, records tumbled as two-year-olds in training fetched jaw-dropping prices. A colt by Tiz the Law sold for a staggering $1.5 million, with others close behind. As Chris points out, buying a promising young Thoroughbred is a gamble but it’s one owners and investors are more than willing to take, especially with the Kentucky Derby just around the corner.
In a market fueled by dreams of roses and greatness, optimism is running high.
Culture, Controversy, and Innovation in the Equestrian World
Of course, it wouldn’t be a week in horses without a mix of controversy and innovation.
From a shocking poisoning case at a UK livery yard to the deployment of sniffer dogs at horse shows for anti-doping efforts, the headlines serve as a reminder: the equestrian world, like any other, must balance tradition with vigilance and integrity.
Meanwhile, brighter news emerged with the announcement that Santa Anita Park will host equestrian events for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Using a historic, horse-centered venue promises to blend the best of legacy and modernity for the next generation of Olympic athletes.
Marie and Chris also highlight heartwarming developments, like research into AI technology that could help horses "speak" to vets by interpreting pain and discomfort signals a glimpse into a future where our ability to care for these incredible animals becomes even more intuitive.
The Horse Market: Hotter Than Ever
Finally, no roundup would be complete without a look at the financial side of things.
Beyond racing, the sport horse sales market is booming. Young prospects at foal auctions, showjumpers moving quietly between owners, and elite event horses rising in value after strong five-star performances the entire equine economy seems buoyed by post-Olympic momentum and renewed investor interest.
However, challenges remain. Rising costs of breeding, transportation, and regulation are pushing smaller breeders to the edge, even as the high-end market thrives. The future, as always, will belong to those who can adapt.
In Closing: A Season of Renewal
As Marie and Chris wrap up the episode, one message is clear:
Across disciplines, continents, and communities, the equestrian world is alive with renewal, resilience, and momentum.
New champions are emerging. Old legends are inspiring anew. Innovations are reshaping how we care for and celebrate horses. And throughout it all, the heartbeat of the horse world the partnership between horse and human continues to inspire.
Whether you're following Grand Prix showjumping, cheering for eventing heroes, admiring dressage artistry, or dreaming of Derby glory, this season offers something for every horse lover.
Here’s to another week of passion, sport, and stories worth telling and we’ll be back next Monday with more on Bridl Weekly.