The US Equestrian Open Podcast

• Eventing: David O'Connor on Changing The Game for Horse Sport

  In this episode of the US Equestrian Open podcast, host Annie Bishop is joined by David O’Connor and Diarmuid Byrne for an insightful conversation about the development, purpose, and growing excitement surrounding the US Equestrian Open. David shares the vision behind the Open, comparing its structure to the FedEx Cup in golf and explaining how it provides a year-long storyline for fans to follow, much like Formula One, tennis, and other major sports. The discussion dives into the significance of creating a series that allows riders, horses, and fans to track performances, build narratives, and celebrate the sport on a grander scale. The trio also highlights the importance of storytelling in equestrian sports—how the emotional journey of riders and their horses brings people closer to the sport. They reflect on key moments from the inaugural qualifier at Morven Park and the impact of giving both established and up-and-coming riders a stage to showcase their talent. Key Topics Covered ✅ The Origins of the US Equestrian Open – How and why the series was developed, with insights into its structure and future goals. ✅ The Power of Storytelling in Sport – Why equestrian sports thrive on personal and horse-centric narratives, and how the Open creates opportunities to tell them. ✅ Building Prestige in Show Jumping, Dressage, and Eventing – The importance of a defining event that every competitor aims to win. ✅ Morven Park as the Eventing Final Venue – Why this historic venue was chosen as the ultimate test for eventers. ✅ Growing the Fan Base – How new audiences can engage with the sport and why visibility is key to equestrian growth. Final Thoughts & Looking Ahead As the US Equestrian Open gains momentum, it’s clear that it’s more than just a competition—it’s an evolving story that’s bringing riders, horses, and fans together. With show jumping leading the way and eventing kicking off again, excitement is building for what’s to come. 🎧 Tune in now to catch all the insights and stories behind this game-changing series!

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• Eventing: Caroline Pamukcu’s Big Weekend & Carolina Predictions

  Caroline Pamukcu is making waves again, and this episode breaks down her standout performance at Bouckaert and what it means for the season ahead. Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne dive into the results, the impact of time penalties, and how Caroline’s return after becoming a mom cements her as a top contender. With the Carolina International coming up, they analyze the field, discuss key entries like Boyd Martin’s Cooley Nutcracker and Monica Spencer’s Artist, and debate whether two riders could hit 175 points before Kentucky. Plus, insights into the new course designer, Derek di Grazia, and how cross-country speed will shake up the leaderboard. Who will dominate Carolina? Who goes for Jennie Brannigan and FE Lifestyle take the win? And how will time play a factor in the results? Tune in as Annie and Diarm make their podium predictions and set the stage for an exciting weekend ahead. Follow & Subscribe: 📲 Get the latest updates at US Equestrian Open 📩 Share your thoughts with us on social media 🎧 Subscribe now to never miss an episode!

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• Eventing: The Bouckaert Preview Show

  The US Equestrian Open is back, and this weekend, all eyes are on Bouckaert International. Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne dive into the key contenders, the cross-country challenge, and what makes this event one of the toughest to predict. Will Boyd Martin’s Luke 140 live up to the Prediction Center’s top billing, or will Phillip Dutton continue his series dominance with Jewelent and Quasi Cool? Lucienne Bellissimo’s Dyri leads the dressage standouts and is tipped to lead going into the final phase. Time penalties are likely to decide the winner.  We break down: ✅ The speed vs. stamina debate at Bouckaert ✅ Cross-country time penalties – the real game-changer ✅ Dark horses to watch, including some rising stars ✅ How this event sets the tone for the 2025 US Equestrian Open series 📊 Get the full Form Guide at USEquestrianOpen.org 📲 Follow us on social media for live updates 🎙 Tune in next week for a full event review and our Carolina preview!

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• Eventing: The Series So Far (and what lies ahead)

  The countdown is on! With eight events packed into the next ten weeks, the US Equestrian Open is shifting into high gear. Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne break down the upcoming season, analyze early leaderboard trends, and speculate on who might emerge as the first-ever US Equestrian Open champion. Will Philip Dutton set the benchmark at 175 points before Kentucky? Which horses and riders will rise to the occasion? And why is Morven Park shaping up to be the must-watch finale? Join us as we dive into the stats, the stories, and the excitement of the US Equestrian Open. Don’t forget to follow along at usequestrianopen.org and on social media for all the latest updates! 🎙️🐎

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• Beezie Madden on her story, emerging talent on the US Equestrian Open

  In this episode, show jumping icon Beezie Madden joins Kimberly Prince and Diarmuid Byrne to discuss the excitement building around the US Equestrian Open and the evolution of the sport at the highest level. Key Takeaways: 🐴 Beezie Madden’s Legendary Career A four-time Olympian and two-time gold medalist, Beezie shares insights from her journey from the equitation and hunter rings to becoming one of the most decorated riders in the sport. She highlights the importance of versatility in young riders’ development and the key influences that shaped her success. 🔥 The US Equestrian Open: A New Era for Show Jumping Wellington is hosting an unprecedented level of competition with Olympic champions, World Cup winners, and world #1s all in the mix. “It's so exciting this year… We have so many of the top riders in the world here. Olympic champions, world champions, you name it.” 📖 The Power of Storytelling in Equestrian Sport Beezie discusses how connecting fans to the horses and their journeys makes the sport more engaging and accessible. She emphasizes the role of media and events like the Open in growing equestrian fandom. 🌟 Who Will Step Up? The Next Generation of US Riders The depth of talent in the US is growing, and Beezie believes the Open could be a breakout moment for a young rider. “It’d be kind of cool if one of them stepped up and had their moment at the Open, you know, because it can happen.” 🚀 Looking Ahead to the US Equestrian Open Final With the sport’s biggest names vying for victory, this year’s Open promises to be one of the most thrilling competitions on the calendar. 🎧 Listen now to hear Beezie Madden’s full insights on the US Equestrian Open, the evolution of the sport, and what it takes to compete at the top! Stay connected with the latest news and standings on Facebook and Instagram, and follow US Equestrian on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (Twitter). Use #USEquestrianOpen to join the conversation. 📩 For media inquiries about the US Equestrian Open Series, contact Carly Weilminster at [email protected]. 📣 For sponsorship opportunities, contact Layson Griffin at [email protected].

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