Category Archives: Desert Circuit

Swail Wins and Learns

Conor Swail logs a lot miles in the victory gallop. You don't get to be no. 6 in the world without making frequent trips to the winner's circle. But, as...

The Ace in Wathelet’s Pocket

Gregory Wathelet’s upcoming Grand Prix mount Ace of Hearts has always shown the athleticism to be an international horse. Now he’s gaining the consistency. The 13 year old, former-dressage horse...

Django Took the Long Road

“I haven't sped him that much," said Katie Laurie (AUS) of her top mount Django II. "He's normally such a big jumper or a bit slow and whenever I try...

Casturano Is an Overachiever

Irishman Conor Swail has a new mount and a good problem. Casturano, previously campaigned by Canada's Samantha Buir, is a 10-year-old German Warmblood with a tendency to over jump—and consistently....

Ramsay Gets a Good Feeling

Ali Ramsay has never had a horse quite like 10-year-old Conrado 12. “He's my type. Like, if you think of [my top horse] Bonita [Vh Keizershof Z] and my horse...

How/What to Watch: Desert Circuit VII

March madness begins with this week at Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, CA. The battle between World No. 5 Conor Swail (IRL) and Belgian Olympic medalist Gregory Wathelet rages...

Alan Wade Was Made to Measure

No matter where you are in the world, Irish course designer Alan Wade's name is synonymous with greatness. Designing his first track at age 12, he's now built courses for...

Consistency Is Conor Swail’s Key

Theo 160 is a winner. At just 11 years of age, Conor Swail’s liver chestnut gelding has collected 34 podium finishes—half of them victories—and more in career earnings than most...

Gregory Wathelet Has Rhythm

Most riders, upon entering the ring for a big class, will show their horse a tricky turn or a potentially spooky obstacle. Watch Gregory Wathelet (BEL) and you'll see him...

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