TurnoutHQ+ Newsroom · Published March 29, 2026 · Updated September 8, 2026
Key Takeaway
Dan Kreitl and Carmango lead a world-class field at The Event at TerraNova, topping the CCI4*-S dressage leaderboard as a final prep for the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event.
What Happened
The dressage phase of the B&D Builders CCI4*-S at The Event at TerraNova concluded on March 27, 2026. Dan Kreitl and Carmango clinched the overnight lead with a score of 21.0, narrowly ahead of New Zealand Olympian Monica Spencer and Artist, who scored 21.3. U.S. Olympian Lauren Nicholson and Landmark’s Jungle Gold held third place with 25.2, followed by Canadian Olympian Colleen Loach and FE Golden Eye in fourth (25.5). Nicholson also leads the CCI3*-S division on How Easy GG with a score of 28.7.
Why It Matters
This event is a crucial preparatory run for many top combinations heading to the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event. For Dan Kreitl, the performance marks a successful return to the upper levels for Carmango after an injury layoff. Kreitl utilized refined dressage training, including a second-place finish at the US Dressage Finals in the Intermediaire I division, to support the horse’s performance and manage his longevity. The Event at TerraNova is also the sixth leg of the US Open of Eventing Series, attracting a diverse international field from ten countries. This highlights the growing importance of the Florida spring circuit for global ranking and series standings.
Discipline Context
As a premier Eventing competition, TerraNova offers levels from Starter through CCI4*-S. The leaderboard reflects a mix of seasoned professionals and rising stars. Monica Spencer and Artist, who were second at the MARS Maryland 5 Star, entered with high statistical odds of winning. Buck Davidson, leading the US Open of Eventing Series, is competing with three horses. Riders praised the facility's excellent footing despite drought conditions, attributing it to the venue's irrigation efforts. Heat management became a factor as temperatures reached 87 degrees. The focus on horse welfare is evident in the management of veteran campaigners like Carmango, where riders balance eventing with pure dressage to maintain soundness. The US Open of Eventing Series within this competition highlights the United States Eventing Association's (USEA) efforts to create a season-long narrative and high-point rewards for the sport's top athletes.
Competitors heading into the season can find show tack and riding equipment ahead of entries.