Eventing: David O'Connor on Changing The Game for Horse Sport
The US Equestrian Open Podcast
Release Date: 03/16/2025
Eventing: Phillip Dutton on Leading The Series and Laying it All on The Line
The US Equestrian Open Podcast
Phillip Dutton has held the top spot in the US Equestrian Open of Eventing since the third leg of the season — and with Morven Park just around the corner, he’s not slowing down. In this episode, Annie and Diarm catch up with the veteran Olympic rider to talk about his approach to the series, the development of Denim and Possante, and the long-term game of staying competitive in a changing sport. From training philosophies and series strategy to team depth and ownership partnerships, this conversation dives deep into what it takes to lead — and stay leading. Episode Highlights How...
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Eventing: Behind the Scenes at Morven Park
The US Equestrian Open Podcast
With just 11 weeks to go until the U.S. Equestrian Open Final, Annie and Diarm are joined by Stacey Metcalfe and Hannah McSween from Morven Park. From rich equestrian history to fresh cross-country fences and free admission, this episode takes listeners behind the scenes of what makes Morven Park a one-of-a-kind venue—and why October’s Final is set to be unforgettable. Episode Highlights The History of Morven Park: How a 1,000-acre estate once home to Governor Westmoreland Davis became a cornerstone of American eventing. A Legacy of Learning: The Morven Park International Training...
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Eventing: Rebecca Farm Review Show
The US Equestrian Open Podcast
Tamie Smith and Mai Baum deliver a fairytale fairwell ending at Rebecca Farm, winning their final upper-level competition together — 10 years after their first 4*-S victory at the same venue. In this episode, Annie and Diarm catch up on the emotional highs, the series impact, and what’s next for the US Equestrian Open. Episode Highlights: Mai Baum’s legendary farewell: A record-breaking 22.0 in dressage, double clear, and the fairy tale win to finish. What if…Paris?: Reflections on Mai Baum’s Olympic absence and his undeniable medal potential. Tamie’s domination: First and second...
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Eventing: Rebecca Farm Preview Show
The US Equestrian Open Podcast
In this episode, Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne preview one of the most emotionally charged stops on the US Equestrian Open calendar, as the series heads to Rebecca Farm. At the center of the action is Mai Baum, making his final upper-level appearance after an iconic career with Tamie Smith. Episode Highlights Annie and Diarmuid reflect on Mai Baum’s legacy and what makes this the perfect venue for his farewell. The pair break down the stats: Mai Baum tops the Prediction Centre with a 61% win chance and a formidable first-phase average of 24. Expect fireworks across the field—Rebecca...
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Eventing: Mai Baum Special
The US Equestrian Open Podcast
In this special episode, we celebrate the remarkable journey of Mai Baum as he prepares for his farewell at Rebecca Farm. Tamie Smith, Alexandra Ahearn, Ellen Ahearn, and Eric Markell join the team to relive the moments that made Lexus unforgettable: from a German auction to Kentucky glory, from heartbreak to heroics. A spontaneous trip to a German auction led the Ahearn family to Lexus — and unknowingly to the start of a legendary journey. Alex’s decision to step back and let Mai Baum become a US team horse paved the way for a once-in-a-lifetime partnership with Tammy. The team opens up...
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Eventing: Maryland Review Show
The US Equestrian Open Podcast
Caroline Pamukcu’s wire-to-wire victory at Maryland not only shook up the leaderboard — it marked her sixth counting score and a firm statement heading into the business end of the US Equestrian Open Series. In this episode, Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne break down the hot conditions, big time penalties, and leaderboard changes that made Maryland such a turning point. From on-the-ground context to what the data says about the season so far, this one is packed with insight. Highlights Caroline’s Climb – Now 3rd in the series standings after a dominant win with She's the One Time...
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Eventing: Maryland Preview Show
The US Equestrian Open Podcast
In this episode, Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne look ahead to one of the most unpredictable four-star shorts of the US season, where tight tactics, hot conditions, and first-time four-stars could produce surprises across the leaderboard. Episode Highlights Annie and Diarmuid dive into the exciting mix of experienced names like Phillip Dutton and Jenny Brannigan alongside up-and-comers tackling their first four-star. A new course designer and a forecast of 90–100°F mean ground conditions will play a big role in strategies. Diarmuid explains the crucial points that are up for...
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Eventing: Aspen Farms Review Show with Max Corcoran
The US Equestrian Open Podcast
What makes a hidden gem like Aspen Farms shine? In this episode, Max Corcoran joins Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne to reflect on a standout weekend in the Pacific Northwest — from the charm of a family-run venue to breakout performances and big-picture takeaways for the US Equestrian Open Series. Episode Highlights Max shares what makes Aspen Farms special — top-level footing, stunning scenery, and a tight-knit sense of community. Tommy Greengard’s sweep across the 4*, 3*, OI, and Open Prelim proves he’s a rising force with serious depth. Aspen’s blend of junior entries and...
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Dressage: Four-for-Four with Genay Vaughn
The US Equestrian Open Podcast
What does it take to go undefeated in the U.S. Equestrian Open so far? Genay Vaughn joins us from her California farm to talk about the special bond with her horse Gino, the power of musical expression in freestyle, and the support system behind her standout season. From childhood Pony Club memories to European tours and a family that demands excellence, this is a conversation full of grit, joy, and vision for the future. 📌 Episode Highlights: Going 4-for-4: Genay reflects on her dream start to the Open and what it means for her and Gino. Freestyle with Heart: The story behind her music...
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Eventing: Jonathan Elliot and Aspen Farms
The US Equestrian Open Podcast
Annie and Diarmuid sit down with Jonathan Elliot, the force behind Aspen Farms Horse Trials, one of the most beloved stops in the US Equestrian Open Series. From its cross-country roots in Florida to its current home in Washington, Aspen’s story is a tale of family, community, and the enduring power of horses to shape lives. Jonathan opens up about the show’s early days, the legacy of his horse Aspen, and why champagne and oysters have become part of the tradition. Episode Highlights The cross-country journey: From Florida farmland to a thriving venue in Washington State Aspen, the...
info_outlineIn 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!