East Coast USEF Platinum Talent Search Results

[AndNirina]

Without taking anything away from the East Coast riders, who I think have done a great job on a tricky course, I can honestly say that I don’t see that big of a glaring difference between West Coast and East Coast competitors.

What does stand out to me, though, is the difference in the horses. Whereas some of the West Coast horses seemed more of a jumper-type, these East Coast horses go around more like I would expect in the finals. I’m not saying they’re easier or more forgiving, but that’s my general impression of the field.

I do think the level of talent seems to be deeper on the East Coast for whatever reason. It’s hard to quantify why that is. It’s pretty unfair to say that those on the West Coast simply “don’t care”. I don’t think that’s the case at all. One audit of a Karen Healey lesson will tell you otherwise.

[goodlife]

Lillie eliminated!

[AndNirina]

Bummer for Lillie.

[Janeway]

No way! I can’t believe Clearway refused TWICE!!! Poor Lillie. To be in the lead like that and then, its all over

[BigEqRls]

Wow. So Lillie is out with two stops. I’d be surprised if Charlotte makes the final four-she had at least two quite deep distances–her horse covered them quite well, though.

As for the footing question still- I was surprised by how many horses had lead issues- either losing a hind lead, swapping repeatedly, or not getting a full change. If the footing is not an issue, I wonder what was?

[Tha_Ridge]

[QUOTE=AndNirina;7199749]

I do think the level of talent seems to be deeper on the East Coast for whatever reason. It’s hard to quantify why that is. It’s pretty unfair to say that those on the West Coast simply “don’t care”. I don’t think that’s the case at all. One audit of a Karen Healey lesson will tell you otherwise.[/QUOTE]

I think it’s really just a density issue. On the West coast, if you want to do the big eq, you ride with Karen. On the East coast, you have your choice—Andre, Frank, Stacia, Missy—and then even the “classic” big names like Timmy Kees, the Dotolis, etc. There are just MORE trainers here who can get you to that end goal. It takes more than just money and rider talent; having a trainer who knows how to prep for the big eq is completely different than having a trainer who can do just hunters and jumpers. Just IMHO… And I’ve worked/ridden on both coasts.

[JFJ]

Who are the judges?

[Tha_Ridge]

[QUOTE=JFJ;7199758]
Who are the judges?[/QUOTE]

Anne Kursinski and Ronnie Beard

[worth_the_wait08]

when is the afternoon session?

[Tha_Ridge]

Top 4:
Allison Toffolon
Michael Hughes
Mattias Tromp
Charlotte Jacobs

[AndNirina]

Top 4 to work off:
Allison Toffolon
Michael Hughes
Mattias Tromp
Charlotte Jacobs

[theblondejumper]

Sitting here in Texas waiting for the afternoon feed and I’m watching LEAVES fall in New Jersey! It’s a high of 80* here today!

[JFJ]

[QUOTE=Tha Ridge;7199759]
Anne Kursinski and Ronnie Beard[/QUOTE]

thanks!

[dp1092]

I’m excited that Allison Toffolon is in the Top 4. She’s a beautiful rider. And I lovve her horse haha

[juniormom]

1:00 pm EST

[BigEqRls]

[QUOTE=AndNirina;7199749]
It’s pretty unfair to say that those on the West Coast simply “don’t care”. I don’t think that’s the case at all. One audit of a Karen Healey lesson will tell you otherwise.[/QUOTE]

I’m sorry if I didn’t word that well. Karen Healey was one of those I was referring to as one of the best in the country.

I meant the equitation industry has gotten a bit out of control with the prices of equitation horses, and because of the huge amounts being spent, winning is more important to some than anything else. So maybe for some people, they don’t care if the level of riding is different as long as they are winning the ribbons at home (on either coast)?

And thank you for your reply/opinion

[RW06]

[QUOTE=Janeway;7199754]
No way! I can’t believe Clearway refused TWICE!!! Poor Lillie. To be in the lead like that and then, its all over :([/QUOTE]

What happened???

[Janeway]

First refusal was coming around a corner to a grey wall - he said no a few strides out but Lillie got him going again after a circle and jumped it. 2nd refusal was the water - same thing, about 3 strides out Clearway just said “no”. And he is a hell of a horse, just think of all the courses he did in indoors last year so beautifully!

I feel really bad for Lillie.

and I bet Andre is annoyed. Heritage preps big time for this! the USET is like their extra-special speciality :yes:

[supershorty628]

What happened with Lillie??

Edit: By the time this posted, the question was already answered. Sorry, I have possibly the worst connection ever (aside from being unable to connect)…

[Tha_Ridge]

[QUOTE=supershorty628;7199791]
What happened with Lillie?? Did he stop at the same jump both times?[/QUOTE]

No, the first stop was at a grey wall coming away from the in-gate. He just looked like he wanted to go home—tried to canter sideways and spin out. She got him over that, but then he stopped at the water. He just did not want to play. Bad pony!