DeRosa Daily Equestrian Olympic News
Horsesdaily Veteran Olympic Reporter Diana DeRosa Brings Us Into Her World

A Bit About the Eventing Controversy

Lately, Eventing has had its share of negative press after a few riders have been seriously injured and horses have died.  When confronted with the question of how do you ensure that all goes well here, it was Gina Miles who eloquently commented, “We all have a strong sense of personal responsibility to present our sport the best we can.  We are sensitive to our horses and how they are feeling.”

Karen O'Connor added, “This is the most professional group of riders I have ever been on a team with.  They all have a moral compass (to do the right thing).  I look forward to the sport being looked at in a different light.  Our job is to make their job look easy.”

Karen went on to explain the unique situation that the course designer faces in an Olympic Games.   “There are many countries that don’t have the opportunities that we have.  Mike has given those other countries the opportunity to finish the course well, while at the same time they will accumulate time faults.”

Phillip Dutton explained that with the way that Mike designed this course if the lesser riders “go too fast they are going to have a run-out or something like that.”

Karen agreed adding, “It’s a good course for run-outs which is a great way for the course to meter out the lesser experienced.” No one asked Karen about the sadness she must still be feeling after the pony she had ridden in the Pan Am Games was recently euthanized after being hurt but Karen wanted us to be aware that Teddy will be with her in spirit.  Sarah Kelly, one of Teddy’s owners, made a bracelet for Karen out of Teddy’s tail. She’ll be wearing that bracelet on the cross country course.” 

I was glad that Karen took a moment to share that final thought with us.  All too often what is talked about are the facts and figures but it’s important to know and understand the riders.  Teddy was a big part of Karen’s life for a long time and dealing with that loss is all part of Karen’s equation.  While it will be Mandiba who will be out there negotiating the course, in a way it will be both Mandiba and Teddy there together.

On Monday we’ll have a chance to witness firsthand how the riders negotiate this Olympic cross country course.  Let’s hope it is memorable in a positive way.

Today was a double day with dressage in the morning and dressage at night and an early rise tomorrow morning when dressage again starts at 6:30.  After the first third of the riders went our very own Gina Miles achieved her goal of scoring below 40, when she garnered a final tally of 37.  Monday will be the cross country and Tuesday the show jumping and Eventing Medals. 

On another note, I want to thank Berit and Lisa for taking the time to write.  Berit wanted to make sure that my columns weren’t going to be similar to the Today Show’s Winter Olympic coverage, which provided only limited details about the Games.  Lisa asked if when I return I’d be willing to share some tips on preparation and workflow, which really is key to getting the job done.  I was glad they both took some time to pass along their thoughts and I’d be happy to share some tips. 

I’m looking forward to hearing from more of you.  Let me know what you want to know.  Ask questions or just take a moment to pass along some comments.  Your input helps guide me to what type of coverage you’d like to see.  Get out your pen because here’s my email:  dderosa1@optonline.net.