Inside Kentucky: Building the #bestweekendallyear

Dive into the world of course design and building for the iconic Defender Kentucky with our first Inside Kentucky show of 2024.

This show offers a glimpse behind the scenes with Derek di Grazia, Jay Hambly, Mick Costello, Tyson Rementer, and Levi Ryckewaert, the masterminds crafting the challenges and beauty of the Kentucky cross-country course.

From the intricacies of terrain and the artistry of fence construction to the vital role of safety technologies and the meticulous preparation leading up to the event, join us as we explore the collaboration, creativity, and sheer hard work that goes into preparing for one of Eventing's most prestigious events.

Listen for free across all podcast platforms.

Guests:

Derek di Grazia: Derek, a competitor since 1968, began formally designing courses in 1986. In 2011, Derek embarked on his journey designing the LRK3DE course. Having won this competition in 1985, he brings a sense of understanding of the terrain. His course-building resume includes multiple distinguished courses including the Burghley Horse Trials and Tokyo Olympic course.

Jay Hambly: Jay has held the title of course builder for such events as the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, 2013 Central American Games and the 2003 FEI North American Junior & Young Rider Championships.

Mick Costello: Mick started his work in course building when he was 13 years old. In 1969 he found himself working on a huge 3-day with a group of people he called “The Big Guys” which included Derek who at 14, helped Mick out during the last few weeks of that event. He moved to KY in 1998 where he started his work with the Kentucky Three-Day. Mick’s experience includes many great courses such as Fair Hill, Radnor and Pebble Beach in addition to the LRK3DE.

Tyson Rementer: Tyson started building jumps at Pleasant Hollow Farms in Quakertown, PA. In exchange for lessons, board and entry fees, he would build jumps and other farm work including bailing hay, cleaning stalls, feeding and turnout. He settled into that role full-time in 2003.

Levi Ryckewaert: Levi has eventing in his blood. Growing up in Belgium he worked on a horse farm where his father was a three-day eventer and organizer. Course building began for Levi in 1993 and in 1999 he moved to England to work on the Badminton Horse Trials.

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