Absolute Horse - August 2018 by Absolute Horse Magazine

E M K ’M C - I E!

PI UP RE F

Absolute

AUGUST 2018

INTER COUNTY DRESSAGE CHALLENGE - REPORT INSIDE

The rs!

e n n i W

PLUS

TUTORIALS, REPORTS, EVENTS, COMPETITIONS, BUYER’S GUIDE, PRODUCTS ...AND MUCH MORE!

AUGUST

2018 ISSUE 325

Inter County Prelim Champion Emma Owen riding Woodcroft Larimar at the Inter County Dressage Challenge - see page 8 for full report. Photo by BigTimeMedia

REGULARS 4 News Ariat Saddle Snaps 6 7 Sophie Callahan’s Shoot of the Month - Lucy Bunn 39 Rhea Asks...Mastering Social Media 41 Catch up with Gaby Lucas 56 Reports 62 Vets Directory 63 Classifieds 64 Showdates

Though every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, PCD Media Ltd cannot be held responsible for the opinions expressed in the magazine. The opinions and technical information in the articles are those of the authors.

COMPETITIONS & GIVEAWAYS 18 Equisafety 30 Silvermoor Treatsies 31 Equerry 32 Alltech 41 Equitheme FEATURES 8 Special Report: Inter County Dressage Challenge 13 What’s On 14 Equine Matters 16 Safety & Security 20 Nutrition

How to contact and connect with us...

33 36 38 42 44 46 48 52 54

INSIDE

WHAT’S

Health & Welfare Wellbeing Buyer’s Guide Special Feature: Hunting The Professionals: including Lisa’s Life Ride Like: Bert Sheffield Careers, Education & Training Saddlery & Tack Love Dogs

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NEWS

PALACE HOUSE TO BENEFIT:

The National Heritage Centre for Horseracing and Sporting Art at Palace House is delighted at the announcement by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) that it has been awarded a £250,000 National Lottery grant from HLF’s Resilient Heritage programme. Chris Garibaldi, Director for the National Heritage Centre at Palace House commented: “We are absolutely thrilled to have received the maximum award from the Heritage Lottery Fund’s Resilient Heritage programme which will be used to increase our commercial and marketing capacity to build income through visitor admissions and reach new audiences.” The Centre was formally opened by it’s Patron, Her Majesty the Queen in 2016 after a £4.99m National Lottery grant from HLF and further support from the Racing Industry as well as many private trusts, foundations and individuals from the world of horseracing.

£250,000 HERITAGE LOTTERY FUNDING

HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE VISITS CENTRAL IPSWICH

OPEN DAY BIGGER AND BETTER

Over 1,000 visitors enjoyed a day full of exclusive tours, demonstrations and plenty of pony cuddles at Redwings Horse Sanctuary’s headquarters on 15th July. The UK’s largest horse sanctuary opens the doors to its Norfolk base just once a year and the event proved as popular as ever!

A horse-drawn carriage from Newmarket Racecourses arrived in Giles Square, Ipswich recently bringing with it a taste of The Moët & Chandon July Festival. Members of the public in Ipswich were able to sample exclusive nibbles created by head chef at Newmarket Racecourses, Damian Adams. Competition Winners: Alltech Mia Stansfield, Essex. Back On Track Hayley Parr, Cambs. Botanica Penny Brooks, Essex; Sarah Bellamy, Essex; Sarah Daniel, Essex. Equetech Rachel Woodward, Suffolk. Equitheme Gabrielle Deed, Essex. Silvermoor Treatsies Alfreda Emery, Essex; Amanda Ainsworth, Essex; Andrew Wilkinson, Essex; Georgia Crouchman, Suffolk; Gillian Dean, Suffolk; Julie Watson, Essex; Lynda Pither, Norfolk; Nicola Broadbent, Essex; Nicole O'Malley, Norfolk; Tilly Marie Stiff, Suffolk. Toggi Adrienne Akers, Essex.

GODOLPHIN UNDER STARTERS ORDERS

TRY PONY CLUB FOR FREE Branches and Centres are offering youngsters the chance to come and try out Pony Club with Free Taster Sessions throughout August. Pony Club is ‘the’ starting place for anyone with an interest in horses and riding whether you have your own horse or not. The important thing is having fun and learning more about horses and equestrian sports in a safe and caring environment. There are 23 Pony Club branches and 44 centres in East Anglia. Visit www.pcuk.org/branches if you have your own pony or www.pcuk.org/centres if you don’t.

The Godolphin Under Starters Orders, a specialist primary school education programme, returned to Newmarket Racecourses recently for its second consecutive year. Over two hundred Year 5 students from nine local schools, in and around Newmarket, benefited from the course, which was created to develop students’ understanding and interest in the horseracing industry, as well as raise awareness of Newmarket’s rich heritage and how horseracing shapes their hometown.

SADDLE SNAPS

SADDLE

SNAPS

Our new competition where each month an Absolute Horse reader will win a pair of

ARIAT BURFORD BOOTS

- Becca East

- Cloe Browne

Joey says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hey! How you doinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;?â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sharing is caring!â&#x20AC;?

worth over ÂŁ130!

Sponsored by

- Emma Burrows â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just keeping cool in this hot weather!â&#x20AC;?

Entry is easy, simply email a candid photo of your horse to

snaps@ ahmagazine.com

Don't forget to include your contact details and a caption to your pic... best pic/caption wins the boots...

Good luck!

- Amy Cassidy â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ariat, a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;lickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of Californian quality!â&#x20AC;?đ&#x;&#x2018;&#x2026;

- Samantha Marsh

- Anne Smith

In April we wished for sunshine... be careful what you wish for!

WINNER!

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whatever happens always look at the camera!â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Scruff is fully prepared for this years summer holidays...â&#x20AC;?

- Leshkat Tors

kyj

Sohf othoet Month

Lucy Bunn and Fumiko

- Emma Last

“Does my nose look big when I take a selfie?!”

- Sara McComb “Lesser spotted 2 head cob otherwise known as Patch and Texas!”

- Tonia Hall

Find the Haflinger

couple of weeks back I went over to one of my favourite showgrounds for the most beautiful shoot. Lucy lives on site at the Hickstead All England Showground as her husband, John, and his siblings happen to own it. Every time I visit Hickstead I always think what a pretty background it would make for an equine photoshoot. So I was excited when Lucy got in touch and suggested we do just that. Sadly, we weren’t allowed into the main ring as preparation was well under way for the Royal International, but there were plenty of other scenic spots for us to use. Lucy owns the absolutely stunning, 8-year-old Lusitano, Fumiko and has had him for around a

Facebook: /SophieCallahanPhotos Instagram: @sophiecallahan

year. The pair compete at advanced medium dressage and plan to continue up the levels. Lucy says that her handsome boy is quite a complex character. He loves coconut flavoured treats and being pampered, but depending on which side he gets out of bed, he isn’t a fan of walking through water and can develop a dislike for the most random of things. However, she also tells me that he has the most amazing attitude, is super affectionate and always aims to please. Lucy says, “He’s definitely the horse I have the deepest connection with and he will be part of our family now for good! Not letting this one go!”

Sophie x 7

WINNER! WINNER! SPECIAL REPORT

Inter County Dressage Challenge

ressage teams from across the region headed to Keysoe EC to represent their counties in this years Inter County Dressage Challenge. Team coordinator Tammy Ruffles, and the Suffolk Team were aiming higher than the third place achieved only 12 months ago. The twelve riders selected to represent Suffolk were (Prelim Sec) Emma Owen, Jenny James, Joe Mace and Ruby Lou Morphey. In the Novice section, Alice Croft, Carol Flower, Carrie Eve and Sara

Images by John Tyrrell BigTimeMedia 8

Saturday. This year’s theme was Toys and Games, we chose the quadrilles as the Trolls, with the pas de deux theme as Stringed Puppets. Both musical rides went very well and were enjoyed by all. “On the Sunday the team started with Sarah Algar’s test at 9:07am and carried on throughout the day - there were some highs and some lows on We hear from the team the day, but team spirit members on their personal remained high. experiences of the competition... “One of the team members Tammy Ruffles reported at lunchtime that we “We started off doing our were laying forth, we were county Quadrille on the Toller. In the Elementary section, Caroline Steward, Sarah Algar, Kelsey Love and Laura Smith. With the main team event happening on the Sunday, involving each rider riding two tests at their level in different arenas, the scores from the two tests would count for individual placings, and all scores would fight for team placings.

naturally very pleased to hear we were doing so well, and we were all hoping to pull ourselves up to third and match last year’s results. “Mette Assouline kindly gave up some of her Sunday to come and support the team and throughout the afternoon every team member gave their all. “When gathered for the presentation at the end of the day we were pleased to find out we had an individual winner - Emma Owen at Prelim level, with Joe Mace

another Prelim placing. In the Novice section we had two more placings in the top ten, Alice Croft and Carrie Eve, and three members placed in the top ten of the Elementary section, Caroline Steward, Laura Smith and Kelsey Love. “Then the overall placings were announced, we were hoping to have moved up to third place from our lunchtime position of forth. “Forth got announced, then London took third, we were totally overwhelmed, everyone thought we’d bagged second place when it was announced Team Suffolk had won! We were all over the moon! After eight years of being involved this is an amazing achievement! Special thanks to all involved.” Emma Owen “I had such a good time at the Inter County Challenge weekend. Team moral was great as ever in the Suffolk team. This was the second

Emma Owen

time George my 5-year-old Warmblood and I had competed for Suffolk and after not having a very successful time last year, this year definitely made up for it! With not only getting the individual win in the prelim class with two scores above 70%, but also Suffolk winning the overall team competition which made the whole weekend. “Big thank you to all our sponsors and of course Tammy for all her hard work.” Joe Mace “It was an honour to be asked to represent Suffolk dressage team. It was great to be with some old friends but at the same time make new friends. Great team spirit, support and camaraderie. “Thanks also to all the sponsors for clothing, rugs and many other goodies. From the arena walk in the morning, to the last of my tests, Solly was not phased by the atmosphere, music and tannoy to produce a test over 70% which found us in third place. The afternoon test,

“Go Team Suffolk!”

Joseph Mace

although not such a good percentage placed us in ninth position. A very consistent day and an individual placing of sixth overall. “I was so proud of Solly as he is still only 6-years-old. With this and other individual placings we had hopes of being placed favourably but no, we actually won the whole competition and top podium slot! “This is all thanks to support from trainers, Mette and Michel Assouline and to the hard work and training of Tammy Ruffles the team co-ordination.

Ruby Lou Morphey “I was thrilled to be selected for the team and would like to thank my trainer Tammy Ruffles and my pony’s owner Claire and of course Ada-Mae for this amazing opportunity. “We arrived at a very hot Keysoe and settled Ada into her stable, this year’s theme being Ed Sheeran. “After the arena walk I got dressed for the Quadrille in a tu-tu and pink wig, I was the troll Poppy. We had great fun which included cartwheels and lots of glitter. In the evening we enjoyed a lovely team BBQ and then it was off to bed. “Sunday arrived and I was a little nervous,. We prepared Ada and Steph did amazing plaits with sparkly diamond bands. “Tammy warmed me up and I did my first test of the day. The atmosphere was huge and Ada took it all in her stride Continued overleaf...

Ruby Lou Morphey

SPECIAL REPORT

“Then came the prize giving, as the commentator was calling the results in reverse order my tummy fluttered, Team Suffolk had won! We came first, we won the Inter County Challenge 2018! Even mum cried! “What an amazing two days, what an amazing team. I will never forget it!”

Alice Croft Continued from previous page...

and danced for me, I was so pleased. Ada was then stabled to cool off whilst I watched the other competitors. All of

team Suffolk’s test looked fantastic. “Mette warmed me up for my second test and told me to ride it just the same as my first test, again Ada was brilliant!

Alice Croft “My first Suffolk Inter County experience was amazing, and I am still in shock that we won! The amount of effort that went into the whole competition was outstanding, from Tammy’s coordinating and organisation of the team, to the Assoulines being there to support us with our riding, and to all the team at

Keysoe that made the event run so smoothly. “I was lucky enough myself to get an individual placing of seventh in the Novice, which was amazing achievement for Hero and I! “The whole spirit of the Suffolk team was something that I won’t forget. On the Saturday night we had a BBQ together which helped everyone get settled in and calmed the nerves down! Tammy proceeded to tell us that no matter where we came she would be proud! Never thinking that the next day we would be the Champions! “I would like to thank everyone involved for making it such a memorable experience for me and a big thank you to all of our sponsors! Looking forward already to next year!” Carol Flower “After a very hot journey we arrived at an even hotter Keysoe. Unloaded Destiny into a lovely cool end stable with plenty of water and hay then set up camp Suffolk.

Sara Toller

Carol Flower

“We all helped to decorate the stable area in the theme of Framlingham Castle. Then we went to support the teams in the music competition - there were some fantastic costumes and great music. “Following a late arena walk and leg stretch for the horses we settled down to a team BBQ . “We were all up early for a 7.30am arena walk. Mette Assouline and Tammy Ruffles warmed us up (not that we weren’t already boiling!) and the morning tests were ridden. “Everyone was pleased with their tests so far, and at half way Team Suffolk were in third place. “Afternoon tests were ridden and we were all delighted with how well the horses performed and coped with the intense heat. “The results were announced and Team Suffolk had WON by 3 points! Tammy and Team Suffolk were over the moon! “Many thanks to Tammy,

Carrie Eve

Michele and Mette Assouline and to all our fabulous sponsors and helpers. It was such a lovely weekend.” Carrie Eve “Ron and I had a great weekend at the Inter County Challenge with the Suffolk team, there was a great atmosphere with everybody supporting everyone else. Saturday night was great fun with the Quadrille and decorating the stables, being dressed up as a troll and then wearing tattoo sleeves like Ed Sheeran were two things I wasn’t expecting to do! Sunday morning it was so, so hot and about 30°C by 10am. Ron did two really nice tests despite the heat and managed to pull out a fourth overall, but of course winning as a team was just amazing! There were lots of tears all round from everyone including all the support team. I can’t thank Tammy Ruffles enough for all her help and support over the last few months and for letting us be

part of the team in the first place!” Sara Toller “On one of the hottest weekends we headed off to Keysoe for the Inter County Challenge! Finn, being the cool dude he is, had his stable turned into Framlingham Castle as our theme was Ed Sheeran and Castle on the Hill. Finn is Mr Consistent and did his two novice tests. There was a great team atmosphere; good food and drink and to cap it all, our team won! “Tammy is a superstar and worked tirelessly helping us all! Great to be part of Team Suffolk and hope we can do it again next year!" Sarah Algar “This year was mine and Cloud’s third year of competing for Suffolk and wow what a year! We competed at elementary level. The atmosphere was great, kicked off on Saturday evening by the watching the Quadrille

with a glass of bubbly and a team BBQ. “The weather was really hot and Cloud is a very laid back chap so the heat really didn’t help! I spent lots of time sponging him down and with the expertise of Tammy Ruffles and Mette Assouline kept the warm up to an absolute minimum, but focusing on the bits of the tests that we knew we would need to work on. “Cloud tried his absolute hardest and behaved impeccably. He has a tendency to be a little spooky at such a big competition with so much going on, however he settled down nicely and produced two consistent tests. “The rest of the team were awesome! We managed some great placings and when the final county placings were announced we could not believe it! Suffolk had won! Continued overleaf...

Sarah Ager

SPECIAL REPORT

Continued from previous page...

“I would like thank Tammy and Mette for the opportunity to ride for the Suffolk Team this year and would encourage anyone who fancies it to go along to one of the training days next year. I have made some great friends and very happy memories!” Kelsey Love “I arrived on Saturday afternoon and got Castle House Gem (Ruby) settled into her stable ready for a busy Sunday of dressage in glorious sunshine. “We watched the Quadrille on Saturday evening supporting our team members. We then

had an enjoyable BBQ that evening and prepared for the sunday. I was up early on Sunday morning to feed Ruby and do the arena walk. After watching some of our team compete, I then rode Ruby who pulled off a fantastic score of 68.87% in our first test. In the afternoon we rode another test and Ruby got over 68%. Once all teams had finished it was time for the presentations. The individual presentations were announced first and I came eighth in the Elementary. “The team presentation was very tense: they announced the team who came third and than announced that last year’s winners had come second and

Laura Smith “What an amazing weekend! We arrived on Friday afternoon so we could see any goblins in the arenas and compete at the BD competition on Saturday. That all went smoothly so I could enjoy a glass or two at the team BBQ after getting Goodie all settled for the night. “Goodie was an absolute star on the day and we got over 70% in

Laura Smith

Kelsey Love

TEAM SPONSORS:

Jess Edwards McTimoney

we knew we had won the Inter County Championships! It was the most amazing weekend and I met some lovely new friends. Thanks must go to our amazing hard working trainer Tammy and for the sponsors who supplied all our lovely tops, rugs,etc.”

our first test. We were the last combination for Suffolk and did another good test despite the heat and feeling a little tired. I was amazed but thrilled to be placed in the top 10. “When we were waiting for the team results (which is what it was all about) we were over the moon when we thought we had come third. When second place was announced and it wasn’t us, we all went bonkers. I still can’t believe it and it hasn’t sunk in. I am so chuffed for Tammy Ruffles as I know that it was a secret ambition of hers for Suffolk to win...and we have done it!“

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON

Photo: Lucy Hall

HORSEPLAY ROADSHOW 18TH AUGUST

THE MAGIC MILLIONS FESTIVAL OF BRITISH EVENTING 3RD -5TH AUGUST The Magic Millions Festival of British Eventing is held in the stunning surroundings of Gatcombe Park, home of HRH The Princess Royal. With five British Championships, action packed arena attractions, a Festival Food Walk and over 100 trade stands all situated in one of the most quintessential back drops, The Festival is a must do, destination event for the Summer. Hosting five Championship classes over the weekend with some of the best riders in the world competing, The Festival is a true showcase of the sport of eventing and makes a perfect family day out. With a thrilling line up of displays and competitions taking place in the Main Arena and the Harringtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Arena over the weekend, there is something to keep every member of the family entertained. www.festivalof britisheventing.com

Now in its fourth year the National Restricted Novice Championship at The Magic Millions Festival of British Eventing will once again be supported by TopSpec. In 2017 the title went to Quorn stud groom, Lorna Collins as the runaway winner of The TopSpec Challenge for The Corinthian Cup at Gatcombe Park, riding the 6-year-old Blackrock Ricardo.

The Horseplay Roadshow will be on hand once again at Newmarket Racecourse to help children learn through role play and interactive games. www.newmarket racecourses.co.uk

The Countdown Begins...

LIVERPOOL INTERNATIONAL HORSE SHOW 28TH -31ST DECEMBER

f you are a fan of top class showjumping, breathtaking dressage and great family entertainment what better way to end the year than a visit to the spectacular Liverpool International Horse Show running 28th-31st December. As well as world class showjumping and spellbinding dressage competitions there will be plenty to keep the whole family enthralled with the popular Shetland Pony Grand National, supported by Jones Brothers Civil Engineering, and a return visit by the heart-stopping horse power that is Freestyle Motocross and of course the legendary Liverpool International musical entertainment. www.liverpoolhorseshow.com

THE MARK DAVIES INJURED RIDERS FUND GALA DINNER - 16TH OCTOBER Equestrian charity, The Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund reach their 30th year anniversary this autumn. On 16th October at RAF Private Members Club in Mayfair, London, they present The Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund Gala Dinner - an evening of fine dining and entertainment with guests including celebrity impressionist Jon Culshaw. www.mdirf.co.uk/cgn/ 13

EQUINE MATTERS

DEMYSTIFYING: MULTIPLE CLAIMS ON ONE POLICY With Petplan Equine

orses are unpredictable animals and can often have more than one condition or injury at the same time. Some horse owners are unsure how insurers process multiple claims at the same time for the same horse so Petplan Equine, a specialist provider of horse insurance, explains more. Continuation claims If your horse has an illness or injury which you have made a claim for, which requires further treatment, you or your vet will need to complete a Continuation Claim Form. You have 12 months to claim from the onset date of the condition and you only pay an excess on the first claim for each condition.

Claims for unrelated conditions Submitting several claims on one policy for unrelated conditions may seem a little daunting but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry, this is quite common and your policy provides a set amount of money per condition so multiple conditions are not an issue. Petplan Equine is there to support you and if you have any questions about whether your claims are related or not their experienced claims advisors can help. For each condition you claim for you will have to pay an excess as outlined in your policy when you claim under Veterinary Fees. The excess will then be deducted from the initial treatment cost and the remaining balance will

be reviewed for payment. The cost of the treatment will then be subtracted from the total Veterinary Fees limit for that condition which has been agreed on your policy. Petplan Equine offer a fixed excess with no additional percentage to add. This means that you know in

advance how much you need to contribute towards the cost of a claim. Some insurance companies have policies with percentage excesses so the amount you need to pay increases with the cost of the claim which can be quite substantial in the event your

WHO PAYS FOR THE HORSE WHEN COUPLES DIVORCE?

aying for the upkeep of a horse is increasingly becoming a bone of contention for divorcing couples, according to a leading family lawyer. There are an estimated 446,000 horse-owning households in the country and three quarters (74%) of riders are female. According to the British Equestrian Trade Association horse needs extensive treatment (BETA) in 2015 there were an or surgery. estimated 962,000 female regular riders compared with 348,000 males. Veterinary Fees cover Lyn Ayrton of Lake Legal said: “In divorce cases Petplan Equine provides cover for treatment recommended by where a horse is involved, arguments often your vet up to the full Veterinary revolve around upkeep costs – which can run into thousands every year – as well as the ownership Fee limit you choose with no additional hidden limits for each of the horse itself. The annual cost of keeping a horse is estimated at around £3,600. condition. Some policies with “The cost of maintaining horses was a significant other insurers will have factor to feature in a newsworthy divorce case additional limits within the several years ago which cast doubt over the right Veterinary Fees benefits for of wives to live off their former husband’s wealth things such as diagnostic for life. In the majority of these cases, husbands investigation and MRI scans. see the horse as a luxury and not a necessity but There are also sometimes the wife might hold a very different view, which is additional limits for Complementary Treatment such where problems can arise.” Lake Legal say that for couples wealthy enough as physiotherapy, acupuncture and specialist farriery which can not to worry about the bills this isn’t a big impact the level of care you can problem, for other less well-off couples discussions about the amounts needed to pay for provide for your horse. With a horse can be a huge hurdle to a settlement recent advancements in being reached. veterinary science the Added Lyn: “Paying for items such as livery forms effectiveness of diagnosis and subsequent treatment for horses part of the maintenance element of a settlement and can be a hefty proportion, especially when has improved greatly, so it is moderate incomes are involved. As with school important to check the cover fees, the whole area around horses and the provided by your policy for all associated costs adds to the income requirement. aspects of veterinary care. It boils down to whether or not there is the Please note that terms, conditions financial ability to cover reasonable needs and the and excesses apply. No cover is court will take a view of what those needs are. provided for pre-existing conditions. “It’s sometimes much harder to reach an Petplan is a trading name of Pet agreement for a couple who have always had Plan Limited and Allianz Insurance horses and even stables of their own, than for a plc. couple who have had horses for only a short www.petplanequine.co.uk while, as horse ownership has become much more

an integral part of the couple’s lifestyle for much of the time they’ve been together. One particular case we encountered involved a couple who had actually bought a bigger house with stables after which the wife set up a small livery business to fund some of the costs. When faced with divorce it’s necessary to be both flexible and realistic – there then remains a chance that a horse can be kept providing the costs are manageable.” Lake Legal has produced the following tips for horse owners when getting divorced: • Plan - investigate whether an existing outbuilding can be converted to stables to cut down on livery and other expenses. • Livery costs – a move may be hard to contemplate but look around to find which livery offers the best value for money. • Share the expense with someone in a similar position - It may not appeal at first but if others are involved which makes the costs entirely more manageable there is a longterm benefit. • Are children involved? If so then proceed with caution as conflict surrounding horses bought for children can result in even more heated arguments. • Horse ownership has to be affordable. If you can show a strategy that works to keep costs down this plays well all around, especially in court. www.lakelegal.co.uk

SAFETY & SECURITY

BEHIND THE SCENES:

Champion Hats

ith the creation of riding hats comes great responsibility. The manufacturing process of each individual hat is overseen by one of our experienced team, many whom have been with us from our conception 40 years ago. This knowledge has been passed from generation to generation and when paired with the injection of modern day technology, creates a riding hat which is built to perfection and tested to destruction.

At the heart of our hats lie the team whom constructed them. Although small in numbers, they account for a wealth of knowledge and experience with regards to riding safety equipment. Without their care, expertise and skills we would not be able to create hats which have become synonymous with total, uncompromised safety. On average it takes around 35 minutes for our team to craft a Champion hat by hand, with a minimum of 25 completed stages involved with each hat.

Our staff are regularly assessed on their ability to complete stages of manufacturing which, when joined together, create a Champion hat made to the highest standard in every way. These tasks include the team memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to glue, trim and line as well as inspect and rivet the hat. Our program ensures that every hat receives the same level of care and attention with no corners cut and no room for error. Once a batch is completed, we then meticulously batch test our

EVER WONDERED HOW YOUR HAT IS MADE? WE DELVE BEHIND THE SCENES AT CHAMPION HQ TO FIND OUT MORE.

hats. This requires random samples to be sent to the British Standards Institute (BSI) from every batch, the rest of the batch is kept in the factory until a pass is received from the test house. To gain the British Kitemark on our hats, our factory is audited by BSI. We are also accredited with ISO 9001 2015 quality

management system. Riding hat shells are designed to provide protection on two core levels, protection from penetration and shock absorption. The hard, solid exterior is designed to prevent penetration whilst the interior is lined with shock absorbing material to protect the riderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head. Champion has two types of outer shell, one being a glass reinforced polyester resin shell, which can be seen on the popular ventair Deluxe. Being extremely strong and lightweight in nature, this material is ideal for constructing a riding hat which ensures ultimate protection of the head. The other type of shell is Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) injection moulded plastic, a highly resistant and extremely tough material. The shells spread the loading over a greater area and allows the shock absorbing material between the shell and head to

manage the energy generated by the impact in an efficient manner for maximum protection. Championâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safety heritage has been a driving force in the production, development and design of riding hats for over 40 years. Our passion for safety continues to show through our diligent craftsmen and women who produce each riding hat by hand. Our products continue to be market leaders, standing up to rigorous testing and carrying the BSI Kitemark for 40 years. The kitemark guarantees that your Champion hat will outperform the five main areas of testing comfortably; penetration, shock absorption, lateral stability (Crush resistance), harness strength and stability. Champion can give you total confidence in the fact that all our products are build to perfection and tested to destruction. www.championhats.co.uk

SAFETY & SECURITY

Product News... Equus Rein Grips are used to cover leather reins and provide extra, non-slip grip for riders and are available in a fine pip or a large pip design. Lincolnshire-based racehorse trainer, Nick Kent, was given two pairs of reins – Equus and a competitor brand - to test on his busy racing yard. Said Nick: “The competitor’s brand basically fell apart after a couple of months use. The pimples all wore off and so there was no grip at all. “We couldn’t continue to use them for health and safety reasons as we were unable to hold a horse with them or pull it up. “Both sets of reins were used identically for six months, three or four times a day and in the racing world tack isn’t looked after particularly well or cleaned very often. It really was a hard test we put them through. “The Equus Rein Grips are still being used now and they really have stood up to the test of time.” www.abbeyengland.com

The unisex, flexible Champion Ti22 Body Protector features a segmented style, cutting edge comfort and flexibility achieved through revolutionary SegTek construction. The heavy duty YKK zips, military grade outer mesh, ultra lightweight foam and cool feel titanium coloured inner lining all contribute to the durability and comfort. With drawstring sides for ease of use. The Ti22 is extremely practical and offers total comfort and flexibility, without compromising on safety. Standard: EN 13158: BETA level 3 2009. RRP: Child from £126.50; Adult from £187.25. www.champion hats.co.uk

WIN! COMPETITION

The Chelsea Riding Hat now comes in matt brown, as well as the existing navy and black. The new colour is ideal for riders who favour tweed hacking jackets for the showring or jumping arena. Stylish and elegant, the Chelsea is Kitemarked and approved to PAS015 and has a removable, washable lining for hygiene and comfort. These features, combined with a lightweight, slimline design and competitive price tag make it a hugely popular choice for leisure riders and competitors alike. Available in suedette (including a tasteful crystal version) or matt finish. Additional liners sold separately. RRP: from £107.99. www.gatehouserange.co.uk

WE HAVE TEAMED UP WITH EQUISAFETY TO OFFER 2 LUCKY READERS THE CHANCE TO WIN AN AIR WAISTCOAT! The waistcoat has been cut to ergonomically fit the body and is fastened by a strong front zip. However, by utilising the Touch & Close fastening side straps, it can be fully adjusted enabling it to be worn throughout the seasons over different thicknesses of clothing, including body armour. Rear signagee reads ‘Please Pass Wide and Slowly Thank You’. RRP: £29.99. www.equisafety.com

To enter: Visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the Competitions page. Entries open 1st August and close 30th August 2018.

A. Perry Ltd is gearing up to attend Spoga Horse and Spoga Gafa in September, where it will be unveiling a host of new products including an innovative safe horse tie. Safe Tie is designed to enable riders to tie up their horse securely, yet if it bolts, the tie will break open. This helps to prevent and alleviate injury to the animal. Available in seven colour variations. www.perryequestrian.co.uk New Equisafety Mesh Quarter Sheet is designed to wick perspiration away from the skin, plus it’s a great way of keeping those flies and midges off. Available in Red/Orange or Yellow. RRP: £34.99. The Summer Lightweight Chest Strap clips onto the saddle d’rings, and can be worn with the sheet offering 360 degree visibility, or without, offering that extra pop of hivisibility from the front. RRP: £15. www.equisafety.com

With dappled shade and bright sunlight, being seen whilst hacking out is just as important now as during the winter months. Golly Galoshes reflective and fluorescent versions offer great visibility when out hacking. RRP: from £26.99 per pair. www.gollygaloshes.com

HERBS, LEAVES ROOTS&SEEDS NUTRITION

SUPPLEMENTS AND NATURAL ADDITIONS TO SUPPORT HORSE HEALTH

A is for Aloe Vera...

Aloe vera is well known for its wide-reaching health benefits for humans, but our equine friends can also enjoy these advantages too with a taste-free supplement. Made in the UK from the finest grade of pure organic aloe RRP: £55.20 per carton vera available, Aloeride offers a wide range of benefits, from support to digestion, to promoting a glossy coat, healthy skin and strong hooves, through to supporting swifter recovery and more comfortable movement. www.aloeride.com

C is for Calendula...

Hilton Herbs Phytobalm in new 100g size

D is for Dandelion A diuretic herb used by Hilton Herbs in their DeTox mix to support the liver and kidneys. www.hilton herbs.com

Calendula (Pot Marigold) is part of the daisy family Asteraceae, commonly known as marigolds, which are native to south-western Asia, Western Europe and the Mediterranean. The latin name Calendula means ‘little calender’ or ‘little clock’ and it’s not hard to see where this name comes from! Calendula has been used traditionally as a culinary and medicinal herb - the petals are edible and can be used in salads and the dried petals can be used as a replacement for saffron. In Western herbal medicine Calendula is regarded as the ultimate skin herb. The dried flowers can be used to make a ‘tea’ or fed as a supplement and calendula oil is often added to creams and lotions for skin problems. Calendula is regarded as having antiinflammatory, antiseptic, and anti-fungal properties and is excellent for healing. www.hiltonherbs.com

B is for benefits of Turmeric.... Turmeric is part of the ginger family of plants and grows underground. It has been found to have strong soothing properties and supports digestion, skin and joints. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, that is known for its effectiveness in treating a variety of conditions. Turmeric is renowned for its antiinflammatory properties and has been chosen to be introduced to horses and ponies suffering from stiffness, lameness and arthritis with positive results. In a study into owners feeding turmeric for stiffness/arthritis the average score for effectiveness was 4.3 and 4.1 for lameness (out of a maximum of 5). It is also an anti-oxidant and can help to protect against free radicals in the body which can cause damage. Studies into humans has also shown it promotes mucus production in the digestive system which protects against ulcers. Tremendous Turmeric Treatsies are a low sugar, low starch treat made using turmeric to provide a delicious treat for your horse. www.silvermoor.com

E is for Ease; Ultimate Ease.... New from Feedmark, Ultimate Ease offers a unique combination of ingredients to support horses and ponies needing additional digestive, gastric or hind gut support. The probiotic Yea-Sacc with FOS supports the population of good bacteria and enhances digestion and intestinal activity, all helping to improve overall body condition. The ingredients calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate and magnesium carbonate are included for their acid buffering ability as well as soothing the mucosal lining of the stomach and intestinal tract. Magnesium hydroxide and apple pectin are included to form a gel that supports the lining of the gut. High quality fibre, kaolin, pectin and glutamine peptides soothe the gastric and intestinal lining and help firm up loose droppings. With an aromatic and settling mint aroma, this highly palatable combination of ingredients provides the horse with complete digestive support from the stomach through to the hind gut. www.feedmark.com

F is for Fenugreek.... Fenugreek seeds are well known as culinary herbs, but they can also be beneficial for horses. They are very nutritious, being rich in calcium, Vitamins A, B and C and made up of 20% protein and 8% oil. This, combined with the fact that they have an appetising aroma make them great for adding condition and encouraging fussy eaters. It is also used for digestive support and milk production and works particularly well when fed with garlic. www.champerenebespoke horseherbal.com H is for Horses will naturally seek out herbs...

G is for Gotu Kola... Gotu Kola (Hydrocotyle asiatica) is one of the common names (including Asiatic pennyworth) of the plant Hydrocotle asiatica which is native to tropical and swampy regions of the Asian sub-continent and the wetland regions of the South-eastern United States. It is widely used in south Asian cuisine as a salad ingredient and its name Gotu Kola comes from Sri Lankan Sinhalese the adjective gotu meaning ‘inverted conical shape’ and kola meaning ‘leaf’. Gotu Kola helps to help maintain optimum digestive function with its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to help promote the healing of mucus membranes. It is an adaptogen herb providing supporting to the central nervous system and the immune response. It also helps with wound healing and is a powerful blood tonic. An adaptogen is a substance that helps the body adapt to a new strain or stress by stimulating the body’s own defensive mechanism. www.hiltonherbs.com

J is for Joint Support...

I is for Instructions... Always follow the manufacturer’s advice.

K is for Kelp... Kelp is a type of seaweed usually fed dried in a powder or granulated. People often feed Kelp to provide a rich source of vitamins and minerals as it contains; iodine, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, zinc , sulphur, manganese, potassium, phosphorus. Vitamins A, B, B12, C, D and E. www.champerenebespoke horseherbal.com

addition of hyaluronic acid which works within the joint capsule to stabilise the joint and aid Feedmark’s all-in one supplement shock absorption. Worn Joints provides Formulate! provides a choice of four joint beneficial herbs to aid support options; Healthy Joints, offers a joint mobility and good value option with maintenance levels contains rosehips, of glucosamine HCI, MSM and omega-3 rich boswellia, celery seeds linseed. and turmeric with Enhanced Joints supplies higher levels of bioperine. glucosamine HCI and MSM and also contains www.feedmark.com chondroitin to help maintain articular cartilage and joint function. Ultimate Joints has been created to offer the very best in joint Formulate! enables you to select from a range of supplementary options to supplementation aimed at competition one supplement, bespoke to the horses, older horses or horses with existing or produce needs of your horse. past issues and benefits from the same ingredients as Enhanced Joints, with the

Bespoke Herbal Supplements

All supplements made to order to suit individual needs. Tel: 07758 610253

Please call or email for free advice Email daisy@champerenebespokehorseherbal.com

NUTRITION L is for Loose Droppings...Brewer’s Yeast can help

M is for Mix...

Mollichaff Herbal is a high quality chaff made from top quality oat and wheat straws and also contains limestone plus garlic and a balanced mix of herbs - mint, rosemary and golden rod. It does not contain any artificial flavours. Garlic is widely thought to aid digestion and maintain a healthy respiratory system as well as being a natural fly repellent. Mint is very palatable to horses and is thought to help maintain a healthy respiratory and digestive system. Rosemary and Golden Rod are both thought to stimulate the appetite. The added limestone provides additional calcium for strong bones and healthy growth. Mollichaff Herbal is dust-extracted, chopped and lightly mixed with a low sugar blend of molasses, using a special process that coats every part of the chaff evenly to make it very palatable. This also gives it an open texture, unlike heavily molassed chaffs which can be sticky and lumpy. www.horsehage.co.uk

N is for Nettle....

Nettle can be fed dried and added to feeds or if cut and left to wilt horses will ususally help themselves to what they need. They are an excellent source of dietary fibre, a rich source of iron and Vitamin C, and also contain sodium and chlorophyl. Traditionally they have been used as a spring tonic, to support the circulatory system as a blood cleanser and to improve the depth of coat colour. Their high levels of iron and Vitamin C make them great for helping with Aneamia. The fact that they help to stimulate the circulatory system this makes them good for many conditions where this is beneficial such as arthritis and Laminitis. www.champerenebespoke horseherbal.com

P is for Pineapple... Cavalor ArtiTec is a new scientifically proven, joint supplement containing very high concentrations of active antiinflammatory ingredients. ArtiTec combines anti-inflammatory agents (turmeric root and boswellia serrata) with joint health nutrients (glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, blackcurrant extract) and pain relief ingredients (feverfew and pineapple). www.cavalor.com

O is for Old Age.... Veteranaid from Feedmark is a herbal based product containing seven tonic herbs all of which have been associated with supporting the lymphatic, circulatory and immune systems, which in older or vulnerable horses can need a helping hand to stay healthy. Milk thistle seeds contain the active component silymarin, which is well-known for its liver-supporting properties. Dandelion is included to support the urinary tract and the kidneys, and to help keep the lymphatic system healthy. This is aided by the addition of clivers, which encourage fluid to move through the body. This is particularly important for older horses, as they become less mobile as they move around less, and fluid accumulation in lower limbs becomes more common. Nettle is combined with burdock root, which helps with various systems in the body, including the respiratory and cardio-vascular system, and acts as an all-round detox with echinacea root and ginkgo which help stimulate the immune system and circulatory system. www.feedmark.com

Q is for Q&A... ‘Hi, my pony lives out all summer and is a good doer so he doesn't have much hard feed. I would like to give him something to provide him with a good source of vitamins and minerals. Can you suggest some herbs that would be good for him?’ Daisy Price, Herbalist answers: “I would recommend Sea Kelp as it is a very rich source of minerals, and is particularly high in Iodine as well as containing calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, zinc, sulphur, manganese, potassium, phosphorus and Vitamins A, B, B12, C, D and E; Nettle as they are full of iron and also contain sodium, chlorophyl, Vitamins C and A; Rosehips are a general tonic and are one of the richest natural sources of Vitamin C, as well as containing Vitamin A and K; and Brewer’s Yeast, a rich source of B Vitamins.” www.champerenebespokehorseherbal.com

S is for Schisandra sinensis.... R is for Rocky...

....who gleams in the ring with Mollichaff ShowShine! A high oil chaff, it is flavoured with cherry making it highly palatable to even the fussiest of feeders. It is high in fibre and contains added limestone to provide additional calcium for strong bones and healthy growth. www.horsehage.co.uk

Schisandra (magnolia vine) is native to East Asia and is used medicinally for its adaptogenic properties. An adaptogen is a substance which helps the body adapt to a new strain or stress by stimulating the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own defensive mechanism. Natural substances in the form of plant medicine offer a gentle alternative to fast-acting synthetic chemical medicine in releasing the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own source of energy to sustain the immune system. Schisandra can be used to combat stress and fatigue and support horses and ponies, particularly during and after intense training, which may subsequently lead to fatigue. Its adaptogenic action has also been found to help support normal response to stress. www.hiltonherbs.com

T is for Treatsies.... Chamomile is a source of antioxidants and is a good antiinflammatory. It has been found to promote healthy skin and coat and have a relaxing effect. Many owners use chamomile to support their horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nervous system, maintain healthy digestion, promoting healing and overall wellbeing. Silvermoor Treatsies are available in Calming Chamomile flavour and are made with pure chamomile flowers. Made with natural ingredients, low in sugar and low in starch they are the ideal treat for your horse and an excellent enticement for physio-stretching. www.silvermoor.com

15%

OFF Y OU USE CR ORDER AHP ODE:

LUS15

NUTRITION

W is for Weight Loss...

U is for Unique Discount Code... Visit www.hiltonherbs.com and quote AHPLUS15 to get 15% off your order!

V is for Valerian... Valerian root is tradionally known for it's ability to relax and calm both humans and animals. It is great for horses that have a tendancy to get stressy or anxious but can also be used to ease stomach cramps. It can be beneficial during long periods of box rest, when even the calmest of horses may start to become stressed. It does have quite a strong smell, so should be introduced gradually to feeds. Valerian is prohibitted by several competitive bodies such as the FEI and therefore if you are considering using you should check with competition rules before use. www.champerenebespokehorseherbal.com

Feedmarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Prolamin is a two-part formula developed to help horses and ponies that may require special dietary management. One part delivers a pelleted supplement, which balances the daily ration by providing the essential vitamins, minerals and amino acids that may be missing from a restricted ration and support foot tissue health. The second part consists of a blend of natural herbs that are included for their beneficial effects on the circulatory system, helping to support blood supply to the hoof and maintain capillary wall health: hawthorn, buckwheat, rosehips and nettle. The two parts complement each other, supporting allround wellbeing, promoting health of hoof tissue, and supporting hoof growth and regeneration. www.feedmark.com

BETA NOPS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; HorseHage Has It!

ou may have noticed a logo on your feed bags saying BETA NOPS and wondered what that is all about. Many manufacturers, including HorseHage, now have BETA NOPS (Naturally Occurring Prohibited Substances) certification. Prohibited substances are defined broadly as any substance which can exert an effect on a horse. A naturally occurring prohibited substance (NOPS) is one that is either present naturally in certain ingredients (such as

caffeine or theobromine) or one that occurs as a result of cross contamination during processing before arriving at the feed manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s facility. The BETA NOPS code requires manufacturers to evaluate the risk of a NOPS contamination during every step of the sourcing, storage, transport and manufacturing processes for each product and to design their quality management systems in line with the risks identified. The code has been endorsed by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and the National Trainer Association.

Manufacturers that have signed up produce their goods in strict compliance with the BETA NOPS code, following the current best practice to minimise the risk of contamination by NOPS. For professional riders who compete at a level where testing for prohibited substance is likely, this is extremely important as a positive blood test can have devastating effects on their career. So what does this mean for you and your horse? Well, it means that products with this certification have been produced to the highest possible quality.

For example, when you purchase HorseHage, you can feed it in confidence, knowing that it is cut from the finest leys which are fully traceable and that it has been manufactured under the highest industry standards. www.horsehage.co.uk

BEHIND THE

NUTRITION

s e n i l p l e H

WANT TO GET THE MOST UP TO DATE, PROFESSIONAL FEEDING ADVICE? WE MEET SOME OF THE EQUINE FEED INDUSTRY’S LEADING PROFESSIONALS TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THEM, AND THE ADVICE THEY ARE ABLE TO OFFER YOU.

Meet Rachel O’Sullivan (MSc)...

have been working as part of the Saracen Nutrition Team for 6 years. As part of my job I am responsible for dealing with nutrition enquiries either over the phone, over email or through our free online Feed Advice Form.

be asked a series of questions about your horse to ensure that not only is the best possible feed “We regularly speak to owners from the range advised, but also with horses of all shapes and that other aspects of your horse’s sizes, from retired ponies to high diet and management are taken level performance horses to those into consideration to ensure you with complex veterinary issues, get the best result from your new and each and every horse is as ration. Does the horse need to important as the next. With the gain or lose weight? Does he growth of social media people are need more help with muscle increasingly using online forums development? How much work is to ask for feeding advice but we he in? Does he need more are seeing incorrect and stamina or instant energy? How sometimes dangerous advice is his temperament? Does he being given which is a concern. have any veterinary issues? It is By calling the Saracen Nutrition important to be honest about Helpline you can guarantee you your horse as the suggested diet will be speaking with someone will be based on what you tell us, who is fully qualified and has the remember we don’t know your experience to offer the best horse so do give us plenty of advice for your individual horse. information! “When you call the Saracen Horse “The first part of the diet that will Feeds Nutrition Helpline you will

ecky has been with the Rowen Barbary Team since 2008 and is the first point of contact for many horse owners that ring the helpline. “Day to day calls from horse owners can be quite varied, from looking at dietary recommendations for companion ponies to horses in full competition work, and everything in between. Seasonal variations are also often seen, with one of the main concerns over the 2018 summer being feeding horse during dry conditions, particularly looking at the lack of grazing. “When you ring the helpline you will often be asked a number of questions such as

be discussed is the forage and we will discuss with owners the minimum amount of forage their horse should be eating, taking into account grass, hay and haylage intake. Once the forage element of the diet has been discussed we will move onto the hard feed, which should always compliment the forage aspect of the ration. The recommended hard feed will be fully explained so you understand why it has been suggested over other feeds in the range. Once the hard feed has been suggested the final part of the ration to discuss is whether any supplements are required which can be tailored to your horse’s specific requirements.” Tel: 01622 718487 www.saracenhorsefeeds.com

information required would be how much work your horse is currently doing, how he is currently managed and does he have any issues which would affect our recommendations, such as sharp behaviour, laminitis, Cushing’s, gastric ulcers, poor mobility etc. This is not an exhaustive list so we may ask further questions if we feel it is relevant. Meet Becky Knight... “The more information you give us, the better advice we can give you. So please do not think you details on the horse’s age, weight, type and are rambling on about your activity levels to help gather a better picture of horse and his regime, it all helps the horse. The horse or pony’s routine will also to ensure we recommend the be considered along with any nutritionally most appropriate diet for your related concerns and what as a horse owner horse. you are trying to achieve. We will then look at “Correct nutrition is vital for the the horses current diet to see where changes, if welfare, health and performance required, can be made. We offer friendly, of your horse so I would not impartial advice to try and find the best hesitate to contact us if you are unsure about which products to feed your horse. I am a member of an experienced team of Meet Keiley Alderson BSc (Hons) Equine Science... nutritionists and vets so if you have specific issues, as we have a have a horse with complex assisting the marketing team have been working at problems or just a simple range of products that are when designing new sacks, TopSpec as an Equine question, please feel free to brilliant problem solvers. Nutritionist for four years. brochures, leaflets etc. Some contact us for practical, friendly days we may be out of the office “To recommend a diet for your “No day is ever the same! advice.” giving advice to customers on a horse we need to know your Answering customers’ phone horse’s age, breed and height. It Tel: 01845 565030 trade stand, visiting yards or calls about nutritional advice is also important for us to know Multiple Award-Winninggiving presentations to takes priority; every customer customers at retailer open days your horse’s current condition, is Helpline. who calls will be spoken to the he overweight, underweight, and vet client evenings. same day. Calls can take lacking topline, “There is a range of popular anywhere from five minutes to questions that we are asked by etc? We need to over an hour depending on the know the total horse owners, right from those complexity of the case. We also When not on the diet (including provide less detailed nutritional who are simply checking they helpline Keiley are feeding their horse the forage) your advice via email and social enjoys competing. media for those who are unable correct quantity of feed to those horse is currently fed, who are currently managing a to speak to us over the phone. including “There are many other aspects horse or pony suffering from a quantities and involved on a day to day basis wide range of nutritionallyrelated problems. The majority any e.g. quality control, writing of queries are from customers supplements presentations and articles, fed. Other with horses and ponies who reading recent research, and solutions for the horse and the owner. “We are often contacted by horse owners that have made the change to Rowen Barbary Feeds and are thrilled with the results, whether it be that they have taken their previously wild horse out to a dressage competition or have gained that sought after ticket for HOYS but the case that is always remembered is that of Scottie. His owner first contacted the Rowen Barbary Helpline in the winter of 2008 with Scottie’s future looking bleak as he suffered from a number of dietary issues, but over the next 6 months he managed to put on 60kg - the weight he had lost. In 2011 Scottie became the cover star of a Rowen Barbary Booklet and last winter he turned 40-years-old! “It is important to remember that when you ring the helpline to be honest with your horse’s dietary issues and don't be afraid to ask for help - that is why we are here.” Tel: 01948 880598 www.rowenbarbary.co.uk

! p l e H o t e r e H l l A e r We A NUTRITION

aileys Horse Feeds have a team of 5 office-based Nutritionists and Feed Advisors whose jobs are focussed on providing practical feeding advice and support for horse owners. This may be by telephone, email or through the Baileys website and social media, as well as in person and through nutritional back-up to the team of Area Managers, who also advise horse owners as part of their varied sales roles. Winter and spring can be busy times for telephone and email enquiries, as changes in weather demand corresponding adaptations to horses’ diets. Two years ago, Baileys launched their online Feed Finder tool to help people find the right Baileys feed for their horse based on a series of questions, very similar to

Meet Lisa Elliott

those asked by the Nutritionists. This offers the flexibility of being accessible 24/7 but, of course, it is not as intuitive as a human being and cannot ask all the questions which a Baileys Nutritionist would. It does, however, give accurate feed recommendations, is used by over 2,000 people a month and takes the pressure off the telephone helpline during the busy periods. You can’t beat talking to a person, though, especially if your horse has nutrition-related issues like, laminitis or gastric ulcers. They will ask you about your horse’s body condition, workload, temperament and current diet and will want to know quantities of feed and forage fed, preferably by weight. They will ask you what you want to achieve eg. weight loss/gain, more/less energy etc, and won’t recommend change for the sake of it, if it sounds like you’re doing the right thing already. Every member of the team is, or has been, a horse owner so understands the challenges of fitting in a horse around a job or family. They are also familiar with keeping horses at livery and the compromises that sometimes have to be made, while still ensuring a horse has the best possible care. In short, the whole Baileys team are very much on their customers’ wavelengths and, for that reason, also enjoy a great deal of job satisfaction when horses do well after owners follow their recommendations.

isa Elliott is a specialist Equine Nutritionist at Castle Horse Feeds. She has a Masters Degree in Equine Science and has been working at Castle for the past year and a half. “A big part of my job at Castle Horse Feeds involves speaking to horse owners who call us seeking feeding advice for their horses and ponies. I listen and talk to them to establish the nature of the call, any challenges they may be facing and what they may want to achieve with their own horse. The nature of the calls vary greatly,

Meet Henrietta

Nutrition Advisor and Quality

Hen’s role includes overseeing feed quality and ensuring that what’s manufactured always meets Baileys’ strict quality and nutritional criteria. How long have you worked at Baileys? Only 15 years!

Most memorable nutrition enquiry and why? My first phone enquiry, all those years ago. It was a horse with PSSM (tying-up) - which can be

ranging from owners wanting advice on the right feed to support work and condition; the right balance of nutrients to optimise performance; weight management; to those with horses who are prone to or have ongoing health problems and need the right support as part of a management and prevention plan. “The advice and guidance I have given callers has enabled them to enjoy continued success in their chosen field, from endurance rides to showing and dressage. One client qualified for HOYS and experienced success as part of the Prince Philip Cup for mounted games and it’s

“Hearing the positive feedback and seeing the change, over time, really is rewarding.” ty

‘Hen’ Edwards Control Administrator

Meet Jasmine ‘Jaz’ Grogan...

quite tricky to feed - and the lady was lovely.

What is the strangest enquiry you’ve ever had? I was asked whether you can you feed Outshine to racing pigeons. A few nuggets for shiny plumage and a few more to help them fly further?! What is the biggest myth surrounding equine nutrition? That protein causes many problems, from fizziness to laminitis, to equine gastric ulcers.

Best bit about your job? There are lots of things; my lovely and loyal customers, the variety my job brings and being lucky enough to take my dog (Yogi) to work!

Nutrition Advisor

Jaz is the newest member of the team and has a very varied role. How did you go about becoming an Equine Nutritionist? I’ve always been really interested in nutrition because I can see how it affects so many other aspects of the horses I ride, such as their health and performance. As soon as I left school I went to college and then onto University, focussing my studies on equine nutrition. I then approached Baileys Horse Feeds for some work experience and later ended up working here, as a full member of the nutrition team! My job is really varied, which is great. Day-to-day involves a

so gratifying to have helped contribute to this. “At Castle Horse Feeds we believe that all horses are individuals, so when you call for advice, you will be asked relevant questions so we can build a picture of your horse to offer the best advice possible. These can include condition, workload, age, height and weight, temperament, current feeding regime and any ongoing health issues the horse or pony may have. “Speaking to a nutritionist to get advice and support is one of the main benefits of calling a helpline, so you and your horse can profit from

mixture of taking calls and answering emails on feeding enquiries, helping people to find the most suitable diet for their horse. Writing forage reports and educational leaflets are also an important element of the job, as is keeping up to date with relevant research in the industry. I do get enquiries about birds, pet sheep and pigs as we have the Fancy Feed Company range and Badminton Country Feeds as well. Calls for deer, alpacas and pygmy goats are, admittedly less frequent, so it can take a second to switch my thinking!

expert guidance. Whilst it’s tempting to ask friends and post on social media, it’s important to always speak to someone with an in-depth understanding of nutrition and physiology to provide the best solution for your horse. However, it’s equally important to be totally honest with the person on the phone, informing them fully about your horse, so that they can then offer the right advice to fully maximise your horse’s health and potential.” Tel: 01497 570345 www.castlehorsefeeds.com

Meet Katie Aspinall

have been working at Keyflow for about 5 months. I have a mixed role and part of my job entails giving feed advice over the phone, or on the trade stand at events. Coming from a horsey background, I particularly enjoy this aspect of my job. We often receive before and after images from happy customers, which is always rewarding, especially when they have seen a really big improvement. Calls generally tend to be from new customers who have a problem with their horse and feel that changing to Keyflow could help, or those that have heard about our feeds and are interested in finding out more. We ask people a range of questions about their horse, for example: height, breed/build, age and condition, plus workload, routines, stabling, grazing, their current diet and any concerns the owner has. The important thing is that people give us as much information as possible. Using a weigh-tape to gauge bodyweight and emailing photographs can all be helpful. Tel: 01672 519000 www.keyflowfeeds.com

WIN!

COMPETITION

WIN ONE OF 10 SILVERMOOR TREATSIES!

Silvermoor Treatsies are the perfect titbit for your horse and pony. Low in sugar, low in starch and high in fibre we only use the very best quality natural ingredients so you can be sure you are feeding something not only irresistibly delicious but healthy for your horse too. Choose from Calming Chamomile or Tremendous Turmeric both herbs have renowned holistic properties and have been used for centuries in alternative medicine. www.silvermoor.com

ew research from Feedmark shows that 37% of horse owners don’t think or are unsure that their horse is receiving the correct nutrition year round to maintain a healthy condition. Horse-owners worry most about the joints of their horse (60%), followed by gastric health (35%) and hoof condition (32%) with one in five concerned about their horse’s stress levels. Being overweight is another leading concern with over a quarter of owners being worried about their horse’s weight. Feedmark’s team of top nutritionists undertook the research into equine nutrition in the UK to explore feeding habits, help address the most common equine health and wellbeing issues and to examine how horses’ nutritional needs can be better met. Emily Smith, Director of Nutrition at Feedmark, comments: “Whether you are preparing for an event, recovering from an illness or getting through the cold winter months, your horse will have different needs at different times and managing these can be challenging. “This is why Feedmark has launched Formulate! the first all-in-one, bespoke nutritional supplement customised to meet the individual needs of your horse. Based on the latest scientific research, and approved under quality control BETA NOPS & UFAS schemes, Formulate! is a revolutionary, cost effective and easy way to supplement your horse correctly, ensuring he is receiving the correct nutritional support for its individual needs all year round. www.feedmark.com

Product News...

For horses and ponies in light to medium work Equerry Horse & Pony Cubes and Mix provide the ideal option. Helping to maintain condition and offering a medium energy level, the cubes and mix include a high fibre formula to support a healthy digestive system. Good levels of protein for muscle tone and development are included while oil promotes a shiny coat. Equerry Horse & Pony Cubes and Mix have added vitamins and minerals including magnesium for all round health and vitality. www.equerryhorsefeeds.com

Good Luc

To enter: Visit www.absolutehorse magazine.com and click on the Competitions page. Entries open 1st August and close 30th August 2018.

OVER A THIRD OF UK HORSE-OWNERS WORRY ABOUT NUTRITION

20kg bag – Horse & Pony Cubes £9.95 / Horse & Pony Mix £10.95.

Hi-Drate is a revolutionary new 100%-natural grassbased hydration supplement that is designed to help quench the thirst and guard against low fluid balance for all horses and ponies. RRP: £9.99/750g sachet and £14.99/1.5kg tub. www.equidiet.org.uk

WIN! WIN! COMPETITION

SIX READERS TO EACH WIN 4 BAGS OF EQUERRY HIGH FIBRE CUBES!

Equerry High Fibre Cubes are designed for horses and ponies at rest or in very light work, when feeding forage along is not enough to meet your horses’ nutritional needs. Lower energy cubes are also a perfect way to provide ‘NonHeating’ energy for excitable horses, whilst keeping them in tiptop health. They are made from a high fibre formula providing essential vitamins and minerals including magnesium and a source of protein. Equerry High Fibre Cubes are low calorie, making them ideal for good-doers and are cereal-grain free with low levels of sugar and starch. High Fibre Cubes can be soaked and are suitable for elderly horses as a hay replacer. High Fibre Cubes RRP £8.95 for a 20kg sack. www.equerryhorsefeeds.com

Good Luc

To enter: Visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the Competitions page. Entries open 1st August and close 30th August 2018.

NUTRITION

MAINTAINING YOUR HORSE’S HEALTH WITH IMPROVED

STORAGE OF HAY

eeping hay protected from the elements is vital. Ideally hay should be kept under cover, in a building on a welldrained site that doesn’t leak and has good ventilation. Keeping hay on pallets, rather than directly on the floor, helps to prevent it taking on moisture from the ground and encourages air circulation beneath the bales. When running low on hay it is a great time to move the pallets around and sweep out any hay that could become home for rodents. Whilst hay can be kept outside it will deteriorate much more quickly when exposed to the weather and sunlight. If it is necessary to keep it outside it must be covered, for example a tarpaulin can be used to wrap around the hay, ensuring it is well secured to keep the hay dry. Steps should also be taken to protect hay stored in a roof-only shed as it will be prone to sunlight bleaching. This causes a drop in its nutritional value, particularly protein and vitamin A. Despite how it is stored, even the best quality hays contain high levels of respirable particles (RP). RP’s are less than 5 µm in size and have a 50% chance of being inhaled deep into the lungs. This can cause airway inflammation and even respiratory disorders. A recent study by Erck-Westergren and Dauvillier showed that steaming hay with a Haygain hay steamer reduced the occurrence of Inflammatory Airway Disease (IAD) by 63%. www.haygain.co.uk/pages/benefits-of-hay-steaming

WIN! WIN! COMPETITION

THREE WINNERS TO EACH WIN 5KG TUB OF NEW FORAGE GUARD FROM ALLTECH!

Formulated by leading equine nutritionists using the latest research data, new Keyflow Nurture and Nurture Pro can be used for broodmares, stallions and growing youngstock. While Keyflow Nurture is a fully balanced, high fibre feed designed for horses that are largely in a stabled environment, Nurture Pro is a concentrated balancer that can either be used to supplement good grazing, or added to existing rations to aid muscular development in performance horses or for yearling sales preparation. www.keyflowfeeds.com

Forage Guard is a broad spectrum mycotoxin binder designed to help lessen the damaging effects of mycotoxins on performance and health. Mycotoxins are produced by certain moulds commonly found in grains, mixed feed, forages and bedding, and are generally referred to as being either ‘field’ (Fusarium and Endophyte toxins) or ‘storage’ (Penicillium and Aspergillius) origin. Forage Guard works to bind the mycotoxins in the gut, therefore preventing their absorption from the gut into the horse, without removing key nutrients from the diet, as can be the case with alternative clay binders. It has been awarded eight patents worldwide that protect its novel composition and proprietary production; it has been awarded peer-reviewed research for its binding capacity with pasture toxins and is the only product with peer reviewed research in horses with Fusarium toxins. A 5kg tub of Forage Guard retails at £39 and contains a 100 day supply. www.lifeforcehorse.co.uk

Good Luc

To enter: Visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the Competitions page. Entries open 1st August and close 30th August 2018.

ON KINESIOLOGY TAPING

our body worker/Physio has been out and gone through with you what your horse needs for support and what work they have just undertaken on that area; it looks like they are finished and then they go and pull out what looks like pretty coloured sticky tape and start to either make pretty coloured patterns on your horse, or wrap them up like they are ready to go under the tree! For me it’s normally at this point I am explaining to the client that although I look like I can wrap a decent Christmas present I am completely useless! What I am good at, however, is applying kinesiology tape to a horse to help support a muscle or a joint, help with the lymphatic system and improve in some cases movement. Kinesiology taping was brought to us by Dr Kenzo Kase a human chiropractor that wanted a modality that would support his therapy in human athletes, giving a longer lasting effect to his treatments. The tape itself is made of a sticky under belly elastic cotton material that, when placed against the skin, can activate or relax the muscle (depending on how the tape is applied). The success it brought to human athletes soon made the

transition over to the equine performance horses. Working with the horse and understanding the horses kinesis or ‘movement’ is key to why and how a body worker or Physio will apply the tape. So the tapes supportive but why the colour? Colours within the tape are said to give a ‘colour’ effect such as red for warming, blue for cooling, yellow for happiness etc. It can also help applying different colours if the therapist is aiming for a muscle to activate and a muscle to relax. The way in which kinesiology taping on the horse works best is to sit alongside the therapy actually applied to the horse in the first instance. So depending upon the area that the therapist wants to work on, will depend upon the way in which the tape is applied. The tape is applied with a certain amount of stretch as within the physical law anything that stretches to a certain point will try to spring back to the point before it was

stretched. So as the tape is applied to the horse the stretch of the tape is important as the horse does not have the tape applied directly to the skin; the stretch of the tape interacts with the hair and aims to lift the hair, which will then lift the skin, increasing the space between the connective tissue thus in turn allowing the lymphatic and circulatory system to flow more easily. As the horses muscle works in a layering effect the connective tissue is said to allow for a ‘knock on effect’ from the superficial to the deep musculature, allowing for extra support after the therapist has left. Four main areas (but not limited too) in which the tape can help and why: 1 Swellings - As explained above allowing the skin to lift will allow for more circulation and will also allow for waste products and fluids to be removed. 2 Joint stabilisation although taping is not an

Breslau-Morich, K (2017) The complete guide to taping for equine health, fitness and performance; Gibbons, J (2015) A practical guide to kinesiology taping; Kase et al (2013) Clinical therapeutic applications of the kineso taping method. Kim, A (2016) Kinesiology taping for rehab and injury prevention

THE LOWDOWN

HEALTH & WELFARE

alternative to a cast, the tape is supportive as it works similar to a second skin so the horse is still able to move but will have more support. 3 Tendon injuries - Just the same as the joint stabilisation, if the tendon is injured allowing for more support can help stabilise the tendon tissue whilst it repairs, as well as alleviate any swelling that may also be present (and as there is minimal tissue in the lower limb of the horse, allowing a better form of circulation means you can get that all important nutrition and oxygen to the tendon). 4 Muscle - if the muscle is in spasm or suffering from hypertension then again taping can allow for a better form of circulation to be given to the area effected, allowing for short recovery times and relaxation (dependant on the severity of the muscle injury).

HEALTH & WELFARE

SKIN CARE... BE SKIN AWARE!

s I write this Suffolk is currently in a heatwave and we haven’t had rain for weeks! The sun is blazing and I’m loving it! But skin care is at the forefront of my mind. Earlier this year Hawaii banned sunscreen. A study by Haereticus Environmental Laboratory, a nonprofit scientific organisation, found the chemicals in sunscreen cause bleaching, deformities, DNA damage and ultimately death in coral when they’re washed off beachgoers or discharged into wastewater treatment plants and deposited into bodies of water. The American Academy of Dermatology Association explained although restrictions on sunscreen in Hawaii could lead to an increase in skin cancer, the organisations also says that skin cancer is 30% higher in Hawaii than the national average. Interesting... Which begs the question, what on earth does sunscreen do to the human body if it is toxic to coral? There are a handful of organic compounds used in many

commercial sunscreens because of their ability to absorb UVB and short UVA rays. These ingredients are also used in other skincare and cosmetic products such as skin care lotions, foundations and lipsticks. These ingredients are not only very toxic to the growth of young coral, they can disrupt hormones in humans, plus they can be carcinogen (meaning they can potentially cause cell damage that can lead to cancer). Whilst the EU deems these ingredients to be safe in concentrations of 10% or less, Sweden has completely banned the use of them. So how do we pick the best sunscreen and how do we use it? Firstly only use sunscreen on parts of the body that are exposed to the sun. Our skin is highly absorbent and if you use sunscreen it will be stored in fatty tissues within the body for up to a few days. Choose a sunscreen that is free from toxic chemicals. The best I’ve found so far is by Susan Ma at Tropic Skincare, they have a water resistant mineral sunscreen range available in

BY SAMANTHA HARDINGHAM Factors 15, 30 and 50. If you have lily white legs from spending a lifetime in jodhpurs then check out Tropic’s Instant Glow Leg Serum which mimics your melatonin creating a natural tan rather than a laughable fake orange Strictly Come Dancing look! The moral of the story is to always read the ingredients, be curious and be aware that whatever you put in and on your body is what creates your health!

Highlights from the recent ‘ONE’ - The Alltech Ideas Conference are now available to view online, providing a valuable resource for anyone interested in the latest ideas and innovations in the equine world. Follow the online registration at one.alltech.com Active Manuka Honey Vet is a totally natural antibacterial cream containing 25% of 15+ UMF (activity factor) manuka honey suitable for all damaged skin areas. Active Manuka Honey contains the unique compound 'methylglyoxal' that provides a special natural antibacterial function able to block many infectious bacteria. www.aniwelluk.com New Skin Soother is a natural cooling gel to help soothe skin irritations and rashes caused by insect bites, skin allergies, chafing, rubs, sun or friction burns. Ideal for horses and ponies that rub their mane or tail, and horses that suffer from sunburn or photosensitivity. RRP: £14.95 for 200ml. www.equilibrium products.com

Beat the heat!

excess coat • If possible, turn your horse out at night and keep them • If your horse has pink ears or inside during the day. If this thin skin, use sun cream (that isn’t possible, try and turn is suitable for pets and is them out early in the hypoallergenic and unmorning before it gets hot, perfumed) as they can sun and make sure they have burn access to shade and shelter • Exercise your horse early in the • Provide cool, fresh water in at morning and/or later in the least 2 buckets evening when the temperature has dropped • Clip them to remove any

• If you are competing, make sure someone is at the end of course with water and a sweat scraper to help cool the horse off quickly • Provide fly masks and ear nets • Don’t put a coat/blanket on your horse in hot weather. www.scarsdalevets.com

As with other animals, horses can also struggle in hot weather, particularly if they are not acclimatised (which can take at least 2-3 weeks). Larger horses, heavy breeds and overweight horses are at the most risk. During hot periods, it’s not uncommon to see horses with heat exhaustion, dehydration and signs of colic, so to help prevent these conditions, follow the simple steps above.

STOP

PRESS

Praziquantel Only Wormer

Zoetis Ltd has recently announced that the praziquantel-only wormer for horses will be discontinued from October 2018. This is due to the decision of the third-party manufacturer to cease supply of the product. A new praziquantel-only product for horses would require a new registration, involving many years’ lengthy development and approval processes, which makes it an unviable option for the UK. See the September edition for a full report.

WELLBEING

Brush With

Love!

e know that grooming your horse daily is not only essential for maintaining healthy skin and coat, but also allows you to check over for any lumps, bumps and cuts. But what are the other reasons for grooming your horse? Are there any further benefits? We asked Renwick & Sons, purveyors of the finest grooming tools for their opinion on why grooming is more than just getting your horse clean.

Bond With Your Buddy We all know that your horse is your best friend (well, most of the time!) so grooming offers the perfect bonding opportunity each and every time you pick up a brush. Whether you discover ‘that spot’ they love you to brush, or he nudges you to groom him some more, or even points to the area with his nose, these are cherished interactions and further cement a trusting relationship.

else other than everyday life is a joy. While grooming your horse may not be particularly taxing on the brain, it does allow us an opportunity to direct our focus on getting rid of those stable stains or muddy legs for a short while and reflect on the beautiful relationships which we have with our horses.

BENEFITS OF GROOMING YOUR HORSE BY RENWICK & SONS

Feel The Rush Life is hectic, and it’s easy to get into a habit of rushing your horse and everything you do with your horse at the yard. But time spent grooming coupled with using the right grooming tools means that you can enjoy grooming your horse with improved results and less effort. Busy equestrians are possibly the most organised folk we know, which is why we created a kit that works hard, so you don't have to. Moments Our horses are not the only ones to enjoy the grooming experience. For many busy equestrians, the opportunity to stop and focus on something

Your Pride and Joy We all take pride in our horses, and nothing fills a horse owner with more pride than a complimentary comment! Taking pride in your own appearance is one thing, but we know horse owners take their horses’ appearances to a whole new level! Enjoying a good grooming and tidying up session with your horse will bring you much joy. Whether it’s simply removing half the field from his tail or trimming his fetlocks, the results you achieve will fill you with joy.

Playing a Part in the Routine For some horse owners, particularly those who have their horses at livery, the opportunity to be part of their horses’ daily routine is not possible. For these equestrians, being able to spend time grooming their horse before and after riding is a superb opportunity to spend some quality time with their equine friend, other than in the saddle. For many, this everyday practice is something they look forward to as much as the ridden aspect of horse ownership. www.renwickandsons.co.uk

ommunicating with horses came somewhat as a surprise to me – being an animal intuitive isn’t something you set out to become, certainly not something you talk about when you sit down with a careers adviser at school. But it’s something that I am thankful for every day, especially when I see the effect my gift has on both animals and their owners. My career began in the corporate world in HR, and then expanded out to life coaching, a not uncommon transition. But it was my love of horses that first led me to Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL). Using the power and insight of the horse, EFL reconnects the individual to the present moment and their true self, providing clarity and meaningful change in their

Surge in fly bites...

National trade body the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is issuing advice to the public to be pest aware following a reported increase in the number of fly bites on humans. The heatwave is being linked to an increased number of bites and stings, particularly from horseflies. BPCA says that rural areas are more likely to see an increase in numbers due to the presence of livestock, and access to standing

Straight from the horse’s mouth...

By Rachael Beesley

EQUINE INTUITIVE, COACH AND AUTHOR

Photo: Dennis Ray

life, whether that be personally or professionally. One day, I thanked the horses for taking part in one of the programmes I was on, and it dawned on me that they had been communicating back to me without me even realising. And so my journey as an animal communicator began. I realised what a special gift I was blessed with and set about honing my skills. And of course, that involved talking to many animals, not just horses. As I began to talk about what I did, I found myself being asked to connect with other animals such as cats and dogs, and even recently undertook my first reading with guinea pigs (they’re surprisingly

energetic!). I can also connect with animals that have passed. How do you know that a horse wants to get in touch with you, to tell you something? By their very nature, horses are communicative animals. You don’t need to have a gift like mine to know when something’s not quite right, horses are influenced by the situation around them, and will respond in kind. Where I come in is to provide context to these signs, to join the pieces together to create meaning and a greater understanding and being the conduit between horse and their owner to help improve their relationship. What I’ve discovered very early on,

water in troughs, ponds and marshes, which provide a food source and an environment to breed. Natalie Bungay, BPCA Field Officer, says, “For blood sucking insects such as horseflies, the countryside also gives access to food sources, mainly cows and horses grazing in fields.” According to BPCA, the top five most common bites and stings are false black widow spider, mosquitos, horse flies, wasps and hornets. www.bpca. org.uk/Pest Aware

however is that it’s not always all about the horse, these magnificent beings are so intuitive that they often take the opportunity to tell the owner something about their own life – giving them information and guidance signs to look at their own health or wellbeing too. It’s a way to deepen the connection with an animal, learning something about themselves through the eyes of their horse can help owners move forward in their lives together with their horse. The key thing is that symptoms and signs manifest in many ways and may not be indicative of what you think an animal is trying to say to you. Everyone

Product News...

can listen to a horse, trust your gut feelings, if you feel that something isn’t quite right, then you don’t need to be an animal communicator to know that’s probably the case. Just make some space and time to listen, and you might be surprised by what you hear back. If you want to validate your thoughts, or to deepen your understanding or relationship with your horse get in touch. www.equisentient coaching.com

Hidez graduated compression suits work by applying graduated compression to muscle groups which forces the return of fluid from the limbs back into the bloodstream. The enhancement of blood flow and oxygen availability to the animals’ muscles speeds up the removal of waste products such as lactic acid, and so can play a major role in relief from pain, muscle fatigue and stiffness. www.niagaraequissage.com

Ice Horse is a high quality set of ice products designed to apply compression and long lasting snow-like cold therapy to the feet, legs, stifles and back. www.fmbs.co.uk

BUYER’S GUIDE Pegasus Pearl Sparkle Horseshoe Earrings. RRP: £39.95. www.pegasus jewellery.net.

Sterling Silver Snaffle Pendant on fine trace chain. RRP: £45. www.hihosilver.co.uk

Sahel Cream leather crossbody bag with tassle rope strap. RRP: £265. www.saheldesign.com

s t c u d Pro re! Galo The Holkham Ladies Panama. RRP: £80. www.hicks andbrown.com

The Rockingham Tan Mid-Calf Boot .RRP: £315. www.fairfax andfavor.com

Joanna Jacket. RRP: £285. Antonia skirt. RRP: £145. www.butler stewart.co.uk

The Windsor Maxi leather clutch can be personalised. RRP: £89.99. www.mackenzie andgeorge.com

Exclusive Silver Hearts and Horseshoes Friendship Bracelet. RRP: £65. www.hihosilver.co.uk

New brass and leather Cuff. RRP: £49.99. www.mackenzie andgeorge.com

The Whippet Lampshade is new to the Bella Art country collections. RRP: from £30. www.bellaart.co.uk

Candle Holders. RRP: £45. www.eastafricantrading.co.uk

Foxdenton Estate Gins 70cl. R www.foxdentonestate.co.uk

RHEA ASKS...

Olivia Clutch Bag in Burnt Butterscotch Suede. RRP: £119. www.albion england.co.uk

Evemy & Evemy’s new Equus silk scarf. RRP: £79. www.evemy andevemy.com

Lucky Necklace. RRP: from £105. Jump Hoops. RRP: £110. www.renne jewellery.co.uk

SXC Summer Breeches. RRP: £55. www.super xcountry.co.uk

cl. RRP: £24. uk

Sahel Hand woven leather horse reins. RRP: from £200. www.saheldesign.com

Halcyon White Topaz Circle Ring. RRP: £95. www.emilymortimer.co.uk

I’M RHEA FREEMAN...I’M A PR, MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA CONSULTANT AND COACH WITH A SPECIALISM IN EQUESTRIAN AND RURAL BUSINESS. I WORK WITH A NUMBER OF THE BEST BRANDS IN THE INDUSTRY AND MANY THAT YOU’LL SEE IN THESE PAGES...

h - social media - how I love thee! Yes, I am a social media addict, which is more than a little handy as I spend a lot of time advising businesses of all shapes and sizes on how to utilise the platforms available. However, I completely understand the overwhelm people feel. But I would urge you not to throw in the towel; stick with it. It’s all going to be fine… and I’m going to help you with my twopart series. I don’t know how many social media platforms you run and for what reason. Maybe you do it purely because you want to share your own equestrian/style/lifestyle journey with the world. Maybe you’re looking to attract sponsorship. Or maybe you’re trying to promote a business? Whatever the reason, the rules below will still work… 1. Overwhelm. There are SO many platforms out there, it can be really overwhelming when you think about how you need to create specific content for each, optimum times to post, optimal frequency, etc etc. Everyone feels like this, but don’t stress. You can only do your best and there are tools to help. 2. One thing at a time. If you’re trying to learn all the platforms at the same time, it won’t end well. Yes, you should be constantly trying to hone, develop and improve your skills, but make sure you have strong foundations down in one before moving to the next. 3. Insights. Check your insights. This will show you when your following are online, where they live, ages, and lots more. This might help you when it comes to the best time to post for your audience. Because that’s all that matters. A tech company might find a different time works better for them, but they aren’t you. Although insights are very powerful, also experiment. Even if your insights say your fans are online at 3pm every day, if you post at 3pm and it consistently bombs, try something else.

HOW TO GET THE SOCIAL MEDIA LEG UP? (PART 1) Visit www.rheafreemanpr.co.uk • Twitter (@rheafreeman) • Instagram (@rheafreemanpr) • Facebook (/RheaFreemanPR)

BUYER’S GUIDE

THE CHOICE IS yours!

WITH THE COMPETITION SEASON HOTTING UP AND THE CHAMPION SHOWS LOOMING, YOU MIGHT BE THINKING ABOUT UPDATING YOUR COMPETITION JACKET BUT WITH SO MUCH CHOICE OUT THERE, HOW DO YOU DECIDE ON THE RIGHT JACKET FOR YOU? BUDGET ISN’T ALWAYS THE PRIMARY CONSIDERATION, AS MD AND DESIGNER OF THE BRITISH EQUESTRIAN FASHION BRAND, EQUETECH, LIZ HAYMAN EXPLAINS…

hen it comes to choosing a new competition jacket you need to consider what style suits your body shape. This sounds so simple, but so many people see a jacket in a magazine and it looks great on the model, but in reality it possibly won’t look like that on a real rider. Our competition jacket collection has been created to embrace your curves and flatter those bits you don’t want to be highlighted by your clothing! As a general rule, if you are pear shaped try and avoid shorter jackets. For bigger busted or inverted triangle shapes, find a jacket that gives you a waistline to balance out your shape, to avoid making

you look square. For apple shapes, choose smaller overchecks or plainer tweed to provide you with a slimmer outline. Also, don’t forget that you could buy an off the peg jacket for a fraction of the price of a made to measure jacket if there are just a few minor alterations that need to be done to it to make it fit perfectly. Considering where you are going to wear your jacket is also crucial. Are you looking for a ‘real all-rounder’ which is going to take you from the arena to the showring or are you looking for a discipline-specific jacket?

end up looking like a creased bin bag especially if the size is too small! For lower levels you can wear tweed, which is excellent if you are on a budget because you can wear it for other disciplines such as hunting, showing and riding club activities. Showjumping Shorter jackets are definitely in, but make sure they suit your figure. Softshell is also increasingly popular, but shop with caution if you have curves. Instead a tailored, wellconstructed technical fabric jacket will give you a lovely outline and stand the test of time.

Dressage Technical stretch fabrics are great, but be careful to choose a Showing cloth that still gives you a Choosing a jacket, cut to flatter tailored look, otherwise you may is especially crucial for showing, so look out for a nicely cut jacket, which skims your curves and gives an excellent overall impression. Our tweed show jackets go up to a size 24 and have been designed to suit all figures with their clever seams, pocket and button placement. Try and compliment your show outfit with your horse’s colouring. For example, a brown jacket with a canary plaid can

complement a chestnut, bright bay and even Palomino beautifully, while a green jacket works well for all colours including coloureds! Remember that the most critical factor is that you feel great and can move in it – feeling comfortable will make you confident, and that’s called winning style! www.equetech.com

Catch up with...

GABY LUCAS

Adventure Boot RRP: £144.95. www.grubsboot.com

Pin Tuck Base Layer. RRP: £40. Pin Tuck Riding Leggings. RRP: £45. www.paragonequestrian.co.uk

Fioriblu Crocus Bag in Tan with Gold Highlights and Lime. RRP: £165. www.fioriblu. co.uk

asn’t it been HOT? The British summer has definitely arrived with temperatures soaring to 27oC and higher! Even though this weather is glorious, remember to keep yourself and your horses/ponies hydrated and as cool as possible. The sun also brought out an army of midges which made a beeline for Zante in the field so I have been keeping him in his cool stable during the hottest parts of the day, and then turned him out when it was cooler. I also made the horsey version of ice pops with carrots in frozen water to keep Zante cool and also occupied. It went down very well. June was an extra special month because it was Zante’s birthday! He is 14-years-old now and I cannot believe how far we have come. He is such a superstar and I am so excited for the future with this amazing horse. Zante continues to surprise me when we train, and really tries his hardest when it comes to competing. I have also been working hard preparing for my first dressage clinic at Topthorn Arena where I will be discussing various movements and what exercises are great to practice at home to perfect your dressage tests. I will let you know how it goes next month. Until next time!

MONTHLY COMPETITION... New HyFashion London Edition. RRP: from 29.99. www.hy-equestrian. com/stockist/

Dry Bags are perfect for storing Pony Club essential kit. RRP: from £14.50. www.theholidayshop.london

Gaby x

To keep those midges at bay, this month’s giveaway is an Equithème Sweet Itch Sheet. This dense and absorbing sheet vents away sweat and is made from soft 100% tightly weaved polyester which is comfortable for the horse and also prevents even the smallest of insects coming through. Available in Brown from sizes 4’9” to 6’9”.* www.equitheme.co.uk To enter: Visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the Competitions page. Entries open 1st August and close 30th August 2018.

*Subject to stock availability

Solid silver seahorse. RRP: £224. www.sylviakerr jewellery.com

Just Jodz leggings. RRP: £28. www.just jodz.co.uk

Photo: Duncan Jobson

Safari Weekend Bag. RRP: £299. www.lifeof rileyonline.co.uk

SPECIAL FEATURE

A NEWCOMERS GUIDE TO... FOLLOWING THE RECENT LYCETTS FESTIVAL OF HUNTING THAT TOOK PLACE AT THE EAST OF ENGLAND SHOWGROUND ON 18TH JULY, THE EVENT’S TITLE SPONSOR LYCETTS OFFER AN INTRODUCTION TO HUNTING.

! g n i t Hun

or many, the Festival day marks the highlight of the summer social calendar and provides the ideal opportunity for newcomers to immerse themselves in the horse is frequently going to world of hunting. As many a find the day a challenge. The seasoned Lycetts Festival of happy hacker who has never Hunting visitor will tell you, put a foot wrong may become the hunting community so excited by the day that they welcome newcomers with behave entirely differently to open arms and relish the normal: pulling like a opportunity to share their proverbial train or barging and enjoyment in the sport with pushing. It is often best to hire others. an experienced hunter for the The following guide offers tips first few days until the rider and tricks for newcomers looking knows the form. for a valuable insight into the 2. Be a gracious guest world of hunting... Meets are not provided by the hunt but by individuals. The Four things for first often lavish provision of drinks timers and food is due to the A first outing with a pack of generosity of the host and it is hounds can be a daunting therefore always polite to experience yet taking note of a thank them when leaving the few key things will help meet. newcomers quickly feel at home. The following may prove useful: 3. Listen out for calls of ‘Whip on the left’ or ‘Huntsman on the 1. At least one of you should right’ know what you are doing! This is a signal that hunt staff A novice rider on a novice

will need to pass and should be given priority. Make sure one’s horse is facing them and the hounds as they pass. Never allow the horse’s rear end to be facing the hounds. 4. Volume control While chatting with other riders is key part of the day, there will be times when the Huntsman and Field Master need to listen carefully to what is going on. They will not appreciate loud conversations at these times and so it is always worth being attentive. Top Terms Like any sport, hunting has its own vocabulary. Picking up the hunting lingo by knowing these terms and using them correctly will help newcomers become a dab hand at hunting in no time. Top terms to know are:

• Jump – In hunting circles the word ‘jump’ is a verb and not a noun. Those in the know will talk about ‘jumping fences’, not ‘doing jumps’, despite fences often being referred to as hunt jumps. • Hunt – A ‘hunt’ is the collective noun for the institution. It is also the period of time the hunt is actively following a trail. It does not refer to the day (which is called a

Whippers In and the Field Master should be easy to spot. The next most important person is the Hunt Secretary who will welcome hunters as they arrive and collect the cap. This is the money hunters pay at the beginning of the day, which goes towards the management of the hunt, including looking after the hounds. 2. Thrusters These are the people who ride at the very front of the field, usually as close to the Field Master as they can get. They will dazzle with their courage and impress with their tenacity. Many of them will be very experienced and skilled riders. However, they may not be the best people to emulate. Newcomers to hunting will learn a great deal more if they observe more modest riders who watch hounds and Never judge a hunter by A hunting who’s who conserve their horse’s energy. his hat There are many people involved 3. Children It is easy to be impressed by in hunting and it is often very Younger hunters on small beautiful horses and tricky to tell the key members ponies may appear sweet, yet immaculately turned out riders. apart. When it comes to the never underestimate them. However, one thing hunting mounted field, there are a few Many will have been hunting teaches is never to judge by first types to look out for: since they were toddlers and appearances. Here are a few 1) Masters and Officials will out-gallop and out-jump examples: Once the day begins, everyone the best adult riders. They are 1. The man in scruffy tweed and is equal. But some are more easy to spot by the wellies who holds open a gate is equal than others! These are determined glint in their eyes quite probably the owner of the the Masters and Officials who and their quiet manner. Follow farm or estate on which the hunt run the day. The Huntsman, ‘day’s hunting’). • Run – The active period of following hounds as they follow a trail across country is referred to as a ‘run’. • Country – The word ‘country’ is used by hunting people to describe the geographical area over which a hunt operates with two distinct meanings. It can refer to the type of ground a specific hunt usually crosses or it can refer to the actual geographical reach over which they hunt. Each hunt has a clearly defined country within which its meets are held. • Good Morning / Good Night – Hunting people will greet each other at the beginning of the day with ‘good morning’ and, whatever time they go home, they will say ‘good night’. This is just the way it is and does not mean they have lost their marbles.

is taking place. Greet every person on this basis and novices won’t go wrong. 2. Not every good hunter would fare well in a showing class. Not judging by appearances also applies to horses. Sometimes the ugliest of animals will be a spectacular hunter. Amateur hunters can usually spot these horses by the warm greeting other riders give them, often referring to them by name. 3. Follow the elderly fellow in the faded coat. When crossing difficult country, do not follow the dashing man on the fine steed, but rather the elderly fellow in a faded coat who knows every inch of the country and will know the safest crossing places. He or she will neither waste time nor energy, preserving these for a serious run and they will invariably be right up there at the end.

them at your peril! 4. Pilot Newcomers will quickly learn that some people never refuse at fences. Outward appearances may not make this obvious. For those wanting to follow someone over a fence who is going to give ones horse a good lead, be attentive and work out who is a good pilot and, if possible, slot in behind them. A good indicator is a quiet rider on a happy-looking horse. 5. The rest Old hunting prints would have us believe that almost everyone dazzles and jumps their way across country. In fact, there are often more who don’t do this than those that do. Surtees once said: “Happy are they who hunt for their own pleasure – and not to astonish others”. Within every hunt, there are those who simply ride at their own pace, go through the gates and avoid difficult situations. They may not astonish others, but they will certainly be enjoying themselves. www.lycetts.co.uk www.festivalofhunting.com

Lycetts Festival of Hunting... The Lycetts Festival of Hunting, which took place in Cambridgeshire recently, is an annual showcase for the world of hunting and the countryside community, boasting the greatest gathering of hounds in the UK. The prestigious event also included the Peterborough Royal Foxhound Show, which celebrates its 130th anniversary this year.

THE PROFESSIONALS

Lisa’sLIFE EQUINE AMERICA BRAND AMBASSADOR LISA CLARKE-SPENCE BHSI SM IS A REGULAR ON THE EVENTING CIRCUIT AND TRAINS HORSES OF ALL ABILITIES FROM HER EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, HEMPS GREEN EQUESTRIAN, IN ESSEX.

ot and bothered is how we have all felt this month! After such an appalling winter we mustn’t complain about the amazing weather we are currently having, and I for one love sitting in the sun with a glass of something cold in my hand, but it is not great for Eventing due to the concrete going. Therefore I have been turning my foot to a spot of BS. I am delighted that Fidget is finding her form to be back contesting in Foxhunters competitively and Blue is now happily jumping 1.15m classes. The lovely thing about the showjumping is that sometimes you get to come home with money in your pocket!

More Moods, so I will keep you posted after our next dressage outing at Smiths Lawn, and let you know if it worked. She delivered in the SJ and XC to finish just outside the ribbons. Blue did a good test to be harshly marked and a pole and rider navigation error in the SJ led me to with draw from the XC - there was little point in running on the firm without a chance of a ribbon, this horse is destined for greater things so patience has to prevail. I thought I had the 90 in the bag with a good test and super clear SJ, but alas the old horse (a hunting livery) refused to go a yard on the firmer ground! So he is just going to SJ until we get some rain.

and head girl Pip heading off to Boyton Hall on a Tuesday evening to play with the baby horses. I took Paula Twinn’s 5year-old China Dreams as well. Both jumped really sweet rounds showing great promise for the future. The surfaces at this venue have been redone since I last visited and there’s new management as well. They have been approved for BS and BD affiliated from October. I understand they will run alternate Thursdays throughout the winter.

Ab Fab

professional approach is always welcomed. I got given Patsy as a 5-year-old and had enormous fun with her; her hot headedness made her a better Now a sad note to end. My dear showjumper than eventer, and little horse Ab Fab or Patsy to she won many classes. She is her friends has come to her last also Fidget’s mother, so it will be hour, she is now 24 and her a very sad day indeed. This is the breathing has gone and she is side of horses none of us like to really struggling in this hot think about, and I have toyed My one and only British With the extra time on my weather; she has lost a lot of with whether it makes good Eventing outing this month was hands I decided to take on a nice condition and is clearly reading, but I think it is to Keysoe, where with two of young horse to sell. She is uncomfortable so it’s time to important for everyone to know the three elements on a surface beautifully bred ISH by Golden say goodbye. I will use Gary that even us professionals have it was a venue I chose to run at. Lariat. So I ventured out to Thorpe from the East Essex to make tough decisions, and The lovely Fidget grew horns in evening jumping at 60cm! Kennels to Put her to sleep, he who ever we are they are never the dressage and is now on the That’s something I have not has done this many times for me easy. A massive thank you has to Equine America supplement No done for a while. I found myself in the past and his calm go to Mick and Elaine who have had Patsy as a companion for SPONSOR’S SLOT... the last few years and given her Apple Lytes electrolytes can be added to the feed on a daily basis. Pollen a fabulous retirement, where Eze contains a unique blend of natural ingredients and herbs designed to she has wanted for nothing, and sooth horses affected by pollen. www.equine-america.co.uk grown very partial to Waitrose www.facebook.com/Equine America & KM Elite Products Essex carrots! A.Akers Ltd

GET THE LOWDOWN ON

r e k a it h W t r e b o R

eading British rider Robert Whitaker has six European team gold medals and an individual bronze at European pony, junior and young rider championships. Sponsored by Suregrow, Robert has also represented his country on senior Nations Cup teams on more than 25 occasions. Son of the legendary John Whitaker, Robert is an international star in his own right. He is a top producer of young horses, with a showjumping business in the south of England. The family’s incredible showjumping success may have started many years ago, but

clue, but it would have to involve making money! Did you know? I hold the world Born: 16th January 1983 in record for the Yorkshire. bareback puissance. Family: Wife Kate and daughters In 2011 in Evie and Millie. Stockholm, I Best current horse: Catwalk cleared a Best ever horse: Lacroix 2.12m wall Horse I would love to ride: riding McLain Ward’s mare HH Azur. Waterstone She’s something else. without a Equestrian hero: Ludger saddle. Beerbaum Top Best ever win: The Grand Prix in paddock Madrid on Nicolette. tip: Equestrian ambition: To be Fertilising is world number one. The a vital component to achieving a Olympics would be good too. well-balanced paddock. It Alternative career: I haven’t a stimulates root development, with two representatives at the 2016 Olympic Games, this Yorkshire dynasty is showing no sign of slowing down.

Golden Rules of Jumping

resulting in a denser sward and therefore suppressing weed growth. We use Suregrow fertiliser twice a year on our paddocks, which keeps them in excellent condition. www.suregrowuk.com

aumber With Harriet Morris-B

If your reins are too short you will restrict their freedom of movement.

Photo: Jason Goodlad Photography

before you take off. hether jumping at the highest level or working towards your • Longer Reins - The horse’s head and neck are his fifth leg, allow him the room to use first competition, there are certain key things to remember to ensure them properly. In racing, loose horses never you stand a good chance of a clear round. fall as they have no restriction from the reins so they can fully use their head and • Look Up - Find a point in the distance and stare at it intensely. Imagine you are trying necks. • Adjustability - This doesn’t just mean go to set it on fire. • Stay Tall - Staying tall and strong on take- fast and go slow. Riding a perfect round off, in the air and when landing will help either showjumping or cross-country comes from having the ability to make improve the quality of your horse’s jump. Think of a dressage rider staying vertical ‘micro adjustments’, like changing gears and tall in their upper body. Sometimes it and altering the speed. is helpful to think of the landing position www.harriet-morris-baumber.co.uk

Ride like... TUTORIAL

BERT SHEFFIELD

EQUITHÈME SPONSORED RIDER BERT SHEFFIELD IS NO STRANGER TO COMPETING AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL AS SHE WAS SELECTED TO REPRESENT CANADA AT THE RIO 2016 PARALYMPIC GAMES AND CAME FOURTH AT THE WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES 2014 IN NORMANDY. NOW SHE IS WORKING TOWARDS SELECTION FOR THE WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES THIS YEAR AND AIMING FOR THE 2020 PARALYMPICS AT TOKYO WITH HER YOUNG HORSE WONKY. IN THIS ISSUE WE CATCH UP WITH HER AS SHE PROVIDES US WITH HER TOP TIPS ON HOW TO...

DEVELOP THE WALK

ome riders give up on the walk and think that in dressage you have to buy a good walk and canter to get high marks. This isn’t true, all three gaits are important and can be developed, the walk needs just as much work as the other two paces. And remember that often in a test the walk marks carry a coefficient of two.

Depending on what level you compete at there are different walk movements such as Free Walk, Medium Walk, Extended Walk and Collected Walk which all require different things from your horse.

Free walk doesn’t mean ‘free’ It is commonly seen with some riders that when it comes to the Free Walk part of the test that What the Judges look they give the reins away. Unless the horse is already well for in the walk The walk has an even four-beat prepared, stepping forward into rhythm that should be balanced, the contact with a lifted back, have activity (so the horse walks generally the horses’ reaction is like a cat), rather than dragging to either throw their head his toes through the sand. We around or to lift it up to have a little look round. don’t talk about impulsion in the walk as that relates to spring A good free walk is where the from the hindlegs and a good rider allows the horse to smoothly follow the contact walk doesn’t have that bounciness. It is important that down, stretching into a longer your horse is relaxed but rein. By doing this riders should thinking forward without slowly allow the rein to feed through their fingers whilst breaking into a jog or trot, so keeping the rhythm of the walk keeping the rhythm is key to and riding the hind legs forward. good marks. The horse should The transitions into and the genuinely open his frame forward towards his nose and return from free walk are a large part of the mark. These reveal a show a very clear overtrack of the fore feet with the back feet, lot to the Judge about your we want to see the horse training, whether you are riding the hindlegs to the contact or looking like the hind feet kick front to back. The horse needs the front feet out of the way.

to be practised in staying soft and balanced while the contact changes. This is something to practice every time you ride, even out hacking.

Medium walk is your BEST working walk This is your relaxed but active everyday walk on the bit. There must be a pure, relaxed 1-2-3-4 rhythm first before concentrating on creating purposeful steps, covering the ground and clearly over tracking to gain the higher marks. A good way to get them relaxed but forward is by hacking. Horses generally enjoy hacking and have a good rhythm out whilst on the road. It’s good for the rider to feel and hear the sound of the horses’ hooves on the tarmac to know they are marching. And the rider must remember to allow their hands to move forwards and backwards with the natural nod of the horse’s neck. This is so important as the back muscles (connected to the neck muscles) contract first on one side and then on the other so restricting this movement will wreck the relaxation and purity of the rhythm, resulting in the dreaded 1,2-3,4 camel walk.

For the higher levels there is Collected Walk The Collected Walk is found in the higher levels as it is required for the direct transitions to canter, simple changes, walk pirouettes and ultimately piaffe. It is by far the most difficult walk to train as it requires relaxed, rhythmic, energetic, short steps but no bounce. There should also be no overtrack. It is often the hardest to train on horses Back in the arena, walking over that naturally have brilliant poles and lateral work can help walks. your horse develop their You cannot really work on the suppleness through the back collected walk in isolation, it is while working relaxedly into the the product of careful long term contact. When practicing training and lots of tactfully medium walk and especially ridden lateral work to teach the with a young horse it really horse how to tilt the pelvis helps to keep the rein a fraction under, engage and lift the back longer to give the neck room to without becoming tense and swing. excited. Only short lines of this Extended doesn’t mean collection should be practiced at a time or you risk losing the quicker This walk is developed from the purity of the walk. free walk and only shown in the Take your time developing your horse’s walk, it can be improved higher tests. enormously. Keep in mind the As always the first priority is maintaining the pure even walk first two scales of training at all times, (1) rhythm and relaxation rhythm without over pushing and (2) suppleness, and never and the horse’s back becoming sacrifice these qualities even tense and the steps tending when training something more towards being lateral like a camel. For this type of walk you difficult. Practice these in the right way and an excellent walk want the horse to cover the ground with more power, huge will fall into your lap like a ripe fruit as the horse becomes overtrack and a free shoulder, like a ballet dancer finishing off a stronger through his body. move by extending their arm to Remember the Judges will be the fullest. This is supported by watching you closely throughout the WHOLE test. In the strength of the back and a Novice test, the free walk core of the more advanced alone carries the same number horse. Riders just need to make of marks as both medium trots sure they allow the horse to stretch the head and neck a little combined. Good luck! as he opens the frame in an uphill way with a soft contact.

BERT’S Favourite Gear

The Equithème FIR+ 180g Stable rug is the ideal rug to help increase blood circulation and promote cell rejuvenation. Bio-ceramic powder within the fibres of the rug helps Far Infared Rays to be safely absorbed deep in to the horses tissues and cells, and helps reduce inflammation, aid in eliminating toxins and promoteS the healing process. All these factors can help with relieving muscle spasm, pain, joint pain and tight/tense/sore muscles making this rug ideal after a horse has worked hard in the ring training or competing. Bert commented: “I have been really impressed with this rug as it is great to help the horses muscles to relax and recover, whilst still being breathable as the outer is made from honeycomb which wicks away moisture.” Available in Black/Grey in sizes from 6’0” to 6’9”. RRP: £169. www.equitheme.co.uk

CAREERS, EDUCATION & TRAINING

... f o e if L e h t in y a D A

ANNA CLARKE

REDWINGS VETERINARY NURSE TEAM LEADER

he difficulty with describing a typical day as a member of Redwings Horse Sanctuary’s veterinary nursing team is that no day is like the other. One minute you could be observing a horse for lameness and the next you’re rushing to assist with emergency colic surgery – you can never really

say where the day will take you. Myself and the nursing team are based at Redwings’ Horse Hospital at our Hapton headquarters, south of Norwich, where we support the vets in caring for the hundreds of rescued horses, ponies and donkeys living at the charity’s sites across Norfolk. As you can imagine, helping

such a large population of fourlegged residents to stay happy and healthy is a challenging task, and there’s barely been an illness or injury I haven’t seen in my 14 years at Redwings. Luckily, we have an incredible breadth of knowledge and experience within the nursing team - currently including two Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs), two specialist Equine Veterinary Nurses (EVNs), two student veterinary nurses and six nursing assistants - which means we are always prepared to help tackle whatever the day may bring. As the Team Leader, parts of my role - such as organising team rotas and training - see me work from a desk, but for the majority of the time I’m getting stuck in with the rest of the team undertaking the daily jobs required in and around the hospital.

We arrive at 7.30am and begin our first ‘clinic’ of the day, heading to all the stables, paddocks and fields where horses need medication or need to be observed; for example, a horse recovering from laminitis may not be receiving treatment but will need to be regularly monitored to check how comfortable they are. All treatments and observations are then recorded back at the hospital and any concerns are reported to the vets. Clinics will be repeated up to three times a day, but in between these times, each nurse is assigned a specific role that is rotated daily. One nurse will accompany each of Redwings’ vets to assist with their cases sometimes travelling to our other sites in Norfolk - helping with everything from taking xrays to routine blood tests. Another nurse will be

Redwings veterinary nursing team with pony Woo

Confidence in my skills... responsible for caring for our patients in the hospital’s intensive care stables; a favourite role of mine as helping these often desperately ill horses get back on their hooves is an especially rewarding part of what we do. And then there’s the ‘backroom’ tasks that are vitally important in ensuring the whole veterinary unit continues to work effectively. For example, a nurse will be assigned to the day’s ‘housekeeping’, which involves checking that all the equipment is working, x-ray plates are cleared, surgical kits are replenished and the operating theatre is clean so if an emergency arises, everything is ready for the vets to spring into immediate action. One nurse will even spend the day analysing poo samples for evidence of unhealthy worm counts, which I’ll admit is not everyone’s favourite task but is critical in monitoring the overall wellbeing of our herds and keeping us one step ahead of any potential health problems. Before heading home at 4pm (as long as no emergencies arise!), we write up our notes on the cases we’ve seen and list which horses need to be visited during the next day’s clinics.

Jane is Director at Phillips Brothers (Woodshavings) Ltd

One nurse will then remain oncall at night and two will work each weekend to make sure all the horses who need daily treatments are seen to. As you may have guessed by now, the role of a Redwings veterinary nurse is demanding with many hours spent on (and thinking on) your feet, but I couldn’t see myself working anywhere else. I’ve always wanted to care for animals, especially horses. It’s difficult to understand the neglect so many of them living at Redwings have endured. They deserve to enjoy a peaceful and happy life, and I feel incredibly proud to be a member of a team that provides that for them. www.redwings.org.uk

edwings Horse Sanctuary have recognised the importance of staff training for the last 15 years, and together with Poultec Training, continue to develop their staff. Being the largest Horse Sanctuary in the UK, it is vital that all 2,000 horses in their care are looked after professionally and to the highest standard. Farm Manager, Lesley Dickson says, “The training the Apprentices receive supports their personal development, addresses their training needs, and helps them with their knowledge and skills to perform their role efficiently. The Apprentices are grateful for the one-to-one support provided by Poultec, as they feel encouraged to achieve.” Completing the Advanced Apprenticeship in Equine, gave Holly Higgins the opportunity to use her new-found skills to become a Senior Team Leader at Redwings. Holly says, “The Apprenticeship gave me confidence in my skills, and the confidence I gained helped me to advance my career by moving into my new role as a Senior Team Leader at Redwings’ Aylsham Visitor Centre. I felt supported throughout my Apprenticeship and I really enjoyed learning in the outdoor environment rather than in the classroom.” Continued overleaf...

A day in the life of... Jane Knapp

Today my focus has been on recruitment. Phillips Brothers are expanding their production team with the introduction of a Production Supervisor, so I am casting my eye over the array of CVs, looking for candidates whose values appear to be aligned with Phillips Brothers which are family, commitment, consistency, reliability, trust, direction and leadership. The afternoon has been filled with putting together our Phillips VIP Campaign inviting our loyal customers to join the VIP Club and be assured of their horse bedding requirements at the best price throughout the winter (how can I be thinking of winter in this heat! But success is in the planning!). Those joining the Club then avoid being let down when demand is high. www.phillipsbrothers.co.uk

CAREERS, EDUCATION & TRAINING

Continued from previous page...

Redwings, they have accessed Apprenticeship funding to Poultec strive to support upskill their current staff as well businesses to provide them with as providing opportunities for industry specific training for new young people entering the and current, established staff. At

equine industry. Poultec support employers of all sizes, whether recruiting an Apprentice, through Induction Training, advertising your

THE FIRST DIPLOMA IN EQUINE LEGISLATION, WELFARE AND FIELD SKILLS GRADUATES MAKE HISTORY he equine sector accounts for around £8 Billion of the UK’s GDP and there are over one hundred organisations actively involved in protecting and promoting equine welfare including those that investigate allegations of welfare compromise or enforce

behaviourists and animal and equine welfare charities. The first students started out in July 2017 and have just graduated. Discussing the first graduates Level 3 Diploma in Equine welfare and other equine Charlotte Launder, Training legislation; those who respond Legislation, Welfare and Field Manager at The Horse Trust said, to situations where horses are Skills in December 2016 there “It is so rewarding to see the first found in distress and of course was no regulated qualification the organisations that care for for the many people working or students achieve the volunteering in these vital roles; qualification. We are very proud and rehabilitate horses of them and they have been a and for the sector no accepted experiencing welfare brilliant first cohort providing us standard gauge of professional compromise. with excellent feedback which Until the Horse Trust created the competence. This new qualification enables those who will help us to enhance the course structure and content for achieve it are able to future learners. Developing the demonstrate that they can perform their role professionally, qualification has been a big safely and to a required standard. commitment for The Horse Trust To determine precisely what this involving a significant amount of standard should be the Diploma work but we believe it is vital for people that work in the UK’s was developed in consultation equine welfare sector to be able with statutory organisations, to demonstrate their capabilities veterinary surgeons, for the brilliant work they do.” nutritionists, equine

Students prepare a boarding record for a potential court case

vacancy, or working closely with employers throughout the whole Apprenticeship. Poultec are also able to offer industry specific Short Courses including Emergency First Aid, First Aid at Work, manual handling and equine specific courses including the Level 3 Award in the Principles of Transporting Horses by Road. As well as this, Poultec can also provide extra help to Equine businesses by enrolling staff onto an Apprenticeship in Management, Team Leading, and Customer Service, all of which will help you to develop your managing and people skills further.

On completion of the Study Poultec offer training to 16year-old school Programme, enrolment onto leavers who are either not sure an Intermediate Apprenticeship what working with “The confidence I horses really gained helped me to would be the next step to take entails, or those wanting to build advance my career by in order to kickon their love of moving into my new start your career. You could horses, but are not role as a Senior Team progress onto an ready to go into full-time work. Leader at Redwings’ Advanced Apprenticeship This can be done Aylsham Visitor programme by providing work once you have experience and Centre” the required training through a level of Study Programme. experience and This opportunity is skills. There are a host of available all across the county and enrolment is all year round! progression opportunities

within the equine industry to enable you to fulfil your potential. Gaining an Apprenticeship will enable you to take your career as far as you want to go. If you would like to become an

Apprentice, or one of our employers looking to recruit an Apprentice, please contact us. We work with organisations that may be looking for people just like you! www.poultec.co.uk

alks have been held with key players in a bid to deliver innovative LEATHER apprenticeships WORKERS’ in the leather APPRENTICESHIP Left to right: Phil Bevington of Clayton Leather Group, Richard industry. Brown of Abbey England and Mayor of Walsall, Marco Longhi. Abbey England and the Clayton Leather Group along with several other companies and organisations involved in the Walsall leather industry, including saddle and bridle makers and the UK Leather Federation, came together to hear presentations on a Level 2 Leather Craftsperson apprenticeship Standard. Those attending discussed the opportunities and challenges in establishing a training programme to support the leather industry. Concern focused on the skills deficit and labour shortage in this type of traditional industry. Attended by the Mayor of Walsall, Marco Longhi, the group discussed the establishment of a representative forum as well as an annual leather fair to complement the apprenticeship Standard for the leather industry coming later this year - so watch this space! www.abbeyengland.com

SADDLERY & TACK

HERE THE SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS OFFER ADVICE ON THE PROS AND CONS OF BUYING THE TACK IF IT IS AVAILABLE WHEN BUYING YOUR NEW HORSE.

TACK: NEW OR EXISTING?

efore getting into the depth of the discussion the overall aim with any saddle and bridle is that they fit the horse or pony correctly. If you can be sure the tack has been fitted by a Society of Master Saddlers’ Qualified Saddle Fitter and that is has been checked regularly this should at least allay any major concerns. Even if this is the case and you go-ahead and buy the tack, it is always worth getting your own Qualified Saddle Fitter to visit your yard once the horse or pony has arrived and before you get underway with riding and training.

Don’t automatically assume that the saddle fits - although there is no excuse today for using ill-fitting tack, the seller may not have a great deal of knowledge when it comes to correct saddle fitting and they could simply be using a saddle they already had when they bought the horse in the first place. Unfortunately a buyer caught in this type of situation often tends to be fairly novice and may simply assume the deal they are getting is a good one! There may be situations where the seller blatantly takes advantage of a first-time buyer and in these cases The Society of

Master Saddlers would encourage those new to horse ownership to take a more experienced person with them. As well as making sure the saddle and bridle fit correctly, also take the time to make sure the tack is in good condition. Over the years there have been many instances where a Society of Master Saddlers, Qualified Saddle Fitter has been to check the saddle for owners of a new horse or pony and come away very disillusioned. It can often be the case that the new owner was thrilled to bits when the seller informed them they were providing the tack as well to help them out.

But in many instances the tack can be scratched and very well worn, with even some of the stitching loose and the girth being used too long. Similar instances include stirrup leathers not being a pair and saddle flocking that has become flat, hard and lumpy. Such cases definitely put a different perspective to the saying ’never look a gift horse in the mouth’! The stories often involve dishonesty and a certain stretching of the truth but problems can also occur even when a seller’s intentions are totally honest. In an ideal situation it is sensible to have all tack, and the fitting, checked by a Society of Master Saddlers’ qualified fitter – but they will obviously expect to charge a fee. What happens if the saddle and/or the bridle don’t fit – or need substantial repairs? These are extra costs that won’t have been expected, and therefore considered, at the time of the purchase! Buying a horse or pony ‘complete with tack’ often represents good value and can be hassle-free – but it is a purchase that should never be entered into on the assumption that everything will be alright. www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

Childéric Saddles introduce new payment plan... Childéric Saddles UK appreciates that buying a new saddle is a considerable investment, which is why they have introduced a new payment scheme for those customers wishing to purchase through a scheduled payment plan. The ‘Perfect Fit’ Scheme allows customers to choose from a number repayment options over a 12 - 24 month period and also covers their collection of second-hand saddles, and for those existing customers, the opportunity to upgrade their current Childéric saddles. www.childericsaddles.co.uk

SADDLERY

Q&A

MASTER SADDLER LAURENCE PEARMAN ANSWERS READER QUESTIONS

: Which type of leather would be comfiest to ride in, and how would it wear? Most saddles will have a soft leather covering the seat. The comfort comes from the padding underneath which is made from a foam rubber/latex with variable degree’s of texture, some soft and some firmer. When a deep soft padding is used which is very comfortable for the rider, with use it can stretch the leather causing a rippling effect in the

leather on the seat. If the firmer padding is used it will not be as soft but will retain its shape.

: Are there any obvious signs that there is a problem with my saddle’s tree? If you can hear a squeaking noise while riding or if the saddle has become close or is touching the horses withers in a short period of time, these are a couple of things to look out for. It is best to regularly check the arch of the tree. To do this hold the saddle with each hand

around the tree point areas and try to flex it in and out while listening for any squeaking and feeling of movement. Check to see if the saddle looks symmetrical, check for any stirrup bar movement and better still take your saddle to a Master Saddler for a check.

: What is the benefit of flocking air saddles?

Both flocked and air filled saddles have their benefits. Flocking being the traditional form. Both types require skilled Saddlers to keep them at the correct levels for a good fit. Both flocked and air filled saddles if fitted well do work allowing the horse the freedom to move with a rider through the

various disciplines. On a personal response, I have had success with both systems.

: What are the advantages of a monoflap saddle for jumping? There is only a single flap under the rider’s leg on a monoflap saddle which works as an advantage when jumping by allowing the rider to feel the horse’s movement. This in turn allows the horse the same by feeling the riders aids more clearly. This is often in conjunction with a close contact panel which then places the rider’s seat closer to the movement which overall produces a close contact saddle, ideal for jumping.

TOP TIPS

LOVE DOGS

HELP KEEP MAN’S BEST FRIEND SAFE IN THE SUN

HOT DOGS...

he warning from the country’s leading animal welfare charity The RSPCA comes amid a surge in the number of calls to its emergency hotline over concerns for animals suffering in the heat. The RSPCA has also taken the difficult decision to cancel a number of events scheduled to take place. The charity withdrew from the third DogFest event over concerns that dogs could suffer in the heat. Several of the charity’s branches and animal centres also postponed events or changed plans to ensure dogs were not being put at risk. “During these high temperatures we’ve been made aware of some tragic incidents where animals have lost their

lives after suffering heatstroke. “Therefore we’d urge people not to go out and about with their dogs in this hot weather and, instead, to keep them cool at home and in the garden,” RSPCA animal welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines said. The charity is issuing general care advice to keep all animals safe and happy during the heat: • Fill paddling pools with water so dogs can splash and play but don’t force them in as some find water frightening! • Dogs need exercise, even when it’s hot - but avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day. • Pavements can get very hot in the warm weather - if it’s too hot to touch with your hand, then it’s too hot for a dog’s paws.

If dogs overheat they can become exhausted, vomit, not urinate much, have dry gums and excessively pant, which can eventually cause them to collapse. Follow the below advice which should prevent this from happening to your pet, but if in doubt, contact your vet. • Always have clean, fresh, cool water available for them to drink • Ice cubes are great, healthy and cooling treats

• Snakes are most active in summer so don’t be alarmed if you see one in the wild. Most tend to shy away from people. • Don’t let your pet get sunburnt - use pet-safe sun cream. • Wrap an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel or make a towel wet for your pet to lie on. • Use cold treats from the fridge for added moisture or make an ice lolly from pet-friendly ingredients.

Comfy bedding for dogs... Hillingdon Council's Waste Services has partnered up with Dogs Trust by transporting 800 recycled duvets to give animals a comfier living space at its rehoming centre in Harefield. The council collected duvets that were left by students at Brunel University at the end of the academic year and delivered them to the Dogs Trust to be used as bedding by the dogs being cared for there.

• Use common sense: ask yourself if your dog needs to be with you for each journey you plan to make with it, or if it’s better to leave him/her at home in the cool room • Provide access to outdoor space with shade where possible • If you’re having a BBQ, carefully dispose of left over ribs or chicken wings to prevent them becoming stuck in your pets’ digestive tract • Avoid long car journeys, and use air conditioning where possible • NEVER leave a dog in a closed conservatory, even if there are windows • NEVER leave a dog in a vehicle, even if the window is open. www.scarsdalevets.com

Product News... New ‘Country Mud’ Country Dog Drying Coat colourway. RRP: from £39. www.ruffand tumbledogcoats. com Fenton & Charles Venison strips - high in protein, high in iron and low in fat. RRP: £5 (200g). www.fentonand charles.co.uk Classic Bandanas from the Hettie pet collection, all made in Britain from 100% wool. RRP: from £30. www.hettie.co.uk

Westcotts Puppy food is a high quality complete kibble food for puppies. It is unique as it contains the Animal Health Company’s own supplement Hyper Coat Prime. This supplement is 87% Omega Oils and contains Omega 3, 6 and 9, great for skin, coat and general health. Westcotts is wheat gluten free, diary free, no colourants, soya or flavourings. It is hypoallergenic and sensitive on the tummy. Free delivery (UK mainland only) and discounts when you buy 2 or more 12kg bags. Available in 2kg and 12kg bags. RRP: 12kg - £34.99 or buy 2 bags for £50. www.animal-health.co.uk * Want to try before you buy? Order a free sample pack (postage applies).

The unique ShowSheen Woof Pouf contains Ordenone soap beads that help eliminate even the toughest odours - including fox smell. This convenient bathing tool provides a rich lather bath after bath, lasting for 15 or more washes. RRP: £5.60. www.absorbine.co.uk

Bringing Heritage Alive! REPORTS

Photographs by www.eventtoevent.co.uk

CIAT Attelage de Tradition at Sandringham House 30th June – 1st July

istorically, the United Kingdom was at the forefront of carriage building, respected and revered world wide. We made the finest vehicles that were used by the common man as well as commissioned by world leaders and Royal heads of state. They still maintain an active role in many of the world’s Royal households for state occasions. These precious vehicles were responsible for creating nations, allowing despatch riders and Royal Mail to be delivered across continents and inspired engineers and skilled craftsmen to establish new industries such as wheelwrights, coachbuilders, loriners, harness makers, blacksmiths, spring makers, upholsterers, lamp makers etc.

But sadly with the invention of the internal combustion engine and the introduction of ‘horseless carriages’ these beautiful and historic vehicles fell in to disuse being allowed to rot away in barns and outhouses. Horrified at the loss of this transport heritage, a leading French carriage driving enthusiast and collector, Baron Christian de Langlade, decided to instigate a new type of competition on his estate in central France 20-years ago, to help preserve the traditions of carriage driving and promote the use and restoration of original traditional carriages. This initiative has actively helped encourage the use of traditional carriages, bolstering numbers with an increasing number of restored and Matthew Powers driving HM the Queens team of Cleveland Bays, winner of the Multiples Class

Sharon Wooton, winner of the single pony class and overall Supreme Champion

conserved vehicles being saved year on year. With major events held in France, Italy Spain, Germany and Great Britain, the AIAT GB affiliate was formed in early 2018 to consolidate the three current events held at Glamis in Scotland, Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, and Euston Hall Estate in Suffolk. There are three other great Estate venues planned for 2019. The Attelage de Tradition event consists of three stages over two days where competitors have to present their complete turnouts (horses, carriage, grooms and driver or whip) for inspection and judging, followed on the second day with a 14km road drive with technical challenges and then concludes with a driven obstacle course that tests the skills of the carriage driver. All the stages are scored and the category winners are revealed at the end.

Mark Fuller from Norfolk competing in his first Attelage de Tradition

Not only does the event promote the use of original vehicles, it also acts as a showcase for best practice carriage driving and good animal welfare. The event is open to carriage drivers of all ages and physical abilities and equines of all sizes from miniature Shetlands to Shires. This combined, offers one of the most spectacular country events in the UK and we were not

Liz Harcombe from Suffolk, winner of the Tandem Class - in the lead World Horse Welfare Yogi, a rescue pony who has taken to carriage driving with aplomb!

In T he Sp ot

Spla

light

EXCEPTIONAL MOMENTS OF THE MONTH CAPTURED

By Sophie Harris

Splash - This was taken a couple of months before I started SEH Photography, I knew I wanted to pursue photography professionally but had not yet taken the plunge. A friend suggested I photograph the Household Cavalry at Holkham Beach…

Modris Kesans from Wales, winner of the Single Horse Class

disappointed at CIAT Sandringham this year. Twentynine turnouts of authentic veracity from small ponies to a road coach four-in-hand competed over the two days for the accolade of being announced Supreme Champion. But the ethos of Attelage de Tradition (roughly translated Traditional Carriage driving) is camaraderie not rivalry so everyone goes home with a ‘gift bag’ from the organisers.

Katie Cooper driving Mrs Jean Claydens JJ - winner of the small pony class and the smallest pony at the competition

We were particularly honoured this year to be able to present the Supreme Champion, Sharon Wootton driving Lodeside Flash Harry to an 1868 Round Back gig with an award winning Pic generously donated by Paul Chambers of Equifor.com Our knowledgeable commentator Sarah Dance kept the spectators entertained with her lively and informative commentary so much so that one visitor approached the organisers at the end and said what a wonderful, fascinating and enjoyable day she had had and that she had learnt an enormous amount about our carriage driving and transport heritage – the vehicles were beautiful, the horses magnificent and so happy, and the drivers immaculate! Make a date for next year – you won’t be disappointed!

In the spotlight (Harrie Smolders at Olympia 2017) Olympia 2017 was the first international show I attended as official press. I was nervous (understandably) so decided not to join the rest of the press in the arena for the presentation. Instead I waited near the entrance hoping to capture the lap of honour, this was the result… www.instagram.com/seh__photography/ www.sehphotography.co.uk www.facebook.com/SEHphotographyUK/ eah Marshall, aged 18, had a very successful week recently. Firstly she attended the inaugural Carriage Driving Magazine awards in Wiltshire, being a nominee in two categories. Leah was the runner up in the Traditional Turnout section and won the NonTraditional award. Leah then competed at the BDS Surrey Area Show winning the Pleasure and standing second in the Exercise vehicle classes with her 8-year-old Hackney pony Noddy Vyse Show Girl.

Well Done!

Leah featured in the Absolute Horse Magazine last November

REPORTS

Endurance GB Crowns 2018 Young Rider National Champion

toll with two combinations failing to qualify for their next respective stages. British rider Keighley Pomroy’s ambitions were dashed at Vet Gate Two where her horse Hathek was judged to have an irregular gait. Despite Chadwick’s early success her day was cut short at the fourth Vet Gate, just 16km from the finish, where Aragorn also failed to qualify for the final stage due to an irregular gait. This left the competition wide open between the three remaining British riders. Bunting left on to the final loop with a two minute lead over Bedwin, with Harry Ollis (GBR) riding Kirsty Wiscombe’s homebred bay mare, Yawl Hill Pollyanna, a further nine minutes behind. Bunting and Bedwin rode the last loop together, as they had done the entire ride leading up to that point, ensuring their horses had company and were well motivated for the final stage. However, it was Ollis who put in the quickest final loop at 15.4kph – he successfully created a four minute lead over his compatriots, crossing the finish line in second place behind first placed Al Marri (UAE), who had completed the course nearly two hours

beforehand. However, Ollis’ joy was short lived as Yawl Hill Pollyanna was judged to be lame at the final vetting. Bunting and Bedwin crossed the finish line together, hand in hand, having tackled the tough course together all day – the perfect display of camaraderie, sportsmanship and support with just one second separating the pair’s final result. Both combinations passed the final vetting and the 2018 National Champion and Reserve Champion were crowned!

Photo: David Sanders Photography

he British Young Rider National Championships took place in July at Kings Forest, Thetford, in some of the toughest conditions seen so far this year. Endurance GB is extremely proud to announce that the 2018 Young Rider National Champion is Endurance GB Spotlight Scholar, Ella Bunting, who rode Emma Daniel's Aly’s Estrella de Rock to victory. The combination successfully completed the CEIYJ2* 120km ride at King’s Forest (GBR) in what can only be described as extremely challenging conditions. With temperatures well over 30 degrees centigrade, excellent horsemanship and understanding were required by all riders competing across the entire field of classes. The Young Rider Championships was a closely fought affair throughout the day. Five of the entrants in the CEIYJ2* were eligible to compete for the coveted title. In the initial stages the British contingent was dominated by Charlie Chadwick (GBR) partnered by Aragorn, Charlie’s mother’s 14-year-old Arab gelding. Chadwick sat in second place behind the class leader Hamdan Ahmed Mohd Al Marri (UAE) with a comfortable nine minute lead over third and fourth placed Bunting and Katie Bedwin (GBR) respectively. As the day progressed the extreme conditions took their

Essex’s Claudia Moore tops the Equithème Leading Pony Showjumper of the Year Qualifier

efeating thirty-six others, Claudia Moore took the winning spot in the Equithème Leading Pony Showjumper of the Year Qualifier at Bishop Burton College in East Yorkshire recently. All of the starters were focused on picking up one of the three qualification tickets on offer for the Championship Final which will be held at Horse of the Year Show later this year. From the initial starting field, only four were able to access the jump off. Thirteen-year-old Claudia from Brentwood, Essex headed the class on Elando Van De Roshoeve, a 14-yearold bay gelding owned by Katrina Moore. They made their journey up the country worthwhile when they secured a double clear in a super quick time of 45.00 seconds.

Hot competition at Keysoe team, compost had been added to the cross country track to create an extra layer of cushioned going, as well as all routes being agrivated. Sarah and Ben Way had a busy weekend with numerous rides in Friday’s Burghley Young Event Horse Qualifiers, as well as four rides for Ben in Saturday’s Novice and BE100 classes. The husband and wife team dominated the 4-year-old qualifiers with Sarah Way taking the win on Mrs Powell Brett’s Callista Clover. The 16hh mare produced a consistent set of scores to finish on a total of 84.5 to win, ahead of Annie Bellamy and Shannondale Aero in second. Ben Way and Simba Wawana finished fifth, with

Sarah Bullimore

Sarah’s second ride So Smart finishing sixth. The 5-year-old class was won by Sarah Bullimore and her own Coroyale ahead of MS Team’s MDSandyhill Penhills Zorro who lead the first phase with full marks in the jumping phase. Coroyale went on to finish fourth in Saturday’s BE100.

Five-year-old Langaller Roll Over owned by Alice Griffiths and handled by Oliver Parr, came first in the In hand Sports Horse 4-years -and-over and then came champion Sports horse at the Lycetts festival of Hunting. Ozzy was bred by Charles Upham of the Langaller Stud. “He is the first horse I have backed and produced by myself and although we have had some bumps in the road, days like today have made it really worth while!,” said Alice Griffiths.

Harry Bateman heads Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter

he sun was shining once again at Pyecombe Horse Show in West Sussex recently and it certainly shone down on Harry Bateman, who headed an ultra-competitive Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Second Round. The sixty-one starting

combinations were all completely focused on taking home one of the two direct qualifying tickets on offer for the Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Championship Final at Horse of the Year Show in October. Eighteen talented combinations were able to access the jump off and that was where the battle for top spot unfolded. Harry, who is based in Hockley, Essex, delivered the win in this second round on board Anvils Every Little Helps, a 10-year-old

Clutterbuck scoops Qualifier at The Royal Norfolk Show

bay mare owned by Poppy RollitMason. The pair stormed their way to victory when they secured a treble clear in just 35.19 seconds. With the top two taking the direct qualifying tickets for the Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Championship Final, the combinations in third to sixth took home the chance to compete at the British Showjumping National Championships.

ith seconds to spare, Allana Clutterbuck jumped to victory in the British Horse Feeds SpeediBeet HOYS Grade C Qualifier held at the Royal Norfolk Show on the Wednesday. Each of the forty-eight starters were competing for one of the three qualification spots on offer for the British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet HOYS Grade C Championship Final at Horse of the Year Show. Following a testing first round just seven combinations were left to go head to head over the newly shortened jump off course. Seventeen-year-old Allana Clutterbuck from Upminster, Essex proved to be unbeatable on board Sally Lane’s 9-yearold bay gelding, Vykinbay. With her eye on the allimportant clock, Allana picked up the pace to cross the finish line with a double clear in 45.84 seconds for first place.

Photo: Spidg e Event Photo graphy

ffiliated eventing returned to The College Equestrian, Keysoe recently in what should have been the venue’s second British Eventing fixture of the season. In a stark contrast to May when the event was abandoned due to wet ground, Keysoe was bathed in the hot Bedfordshire sun. As venues across the country struggle with hardening ground the team at Keysoe put every effort into preparing the ground to the best of their abilities. With cross-country course design headed by 4* international event rider Angus Smales, and built and prepared by Dominic Moore’s Jump 1

Essex’s Allana

REPORTS

Euston Park 1 flies high following championship announcement he first Euston Park event on the Endurance GB 2018 Calendar took place recently with the venue and participants buzzing at the news that the 2019 European Championships has been awarded to Euston Park (GBR). The first of four instalments of the Euston Park Endurance events on the Endurance GB. Calendar took place in glorious sunshine. The ever-popular venue saw a total of 75 combinations from nine different nations competing across distances from 80km to 160km over two days of competition. Saturday’s CEI1* saw 15 successful finishers from 24 starters and some very impressive performances despite the testing conditions. British rider Carina Kane took third place with her horse Evermore Artistic, competing in their first ever FEI event. Carina said, “I can’t believe that we finished third, I came here with absolutely no expectations and just wanted to get round. We came all the way from Cornwall but it turns out it was definitely worth it!” British riders competing in the CEI2* had a 75% completion rate, with seventh placed Chaminda Manjula Rodrigo’s ride Bahia Du Cambou having the fastest recoveries of the class

– a total of just 10 minutes and 10 seconds, including the finish. There were three classes taking place on the Sunday; the CEI3*, CEIYJ2* and a second CEI1*. First place in the CEI3* went to Saif Ahmed Mohammed Ali Al Mazrouei (UAE) who’s horse, Quetzal Arvorig, took an average of just under 2.20mins to present at each vet gate, an impressive result given the extremely hot weather. There was one British entrant in the CEI3*, Kirsty Wiscombe with her stallion YawlHill Billy. Unfortunately, their day was cut short when Billy was judged to be lame at the first vet gate and subsequently failed to qualify for the next phase. Better luck was bestowed upon the only other two British entrants, both of whom were competing in the CEI1*. This class had an extremely impressive 82%

completion rate with Nicola Thorne riding LM Bolena, and Charlotte Strang riding Bolero Phantastik finishing in eighth and ninth positions respectively. As is now customary with Euston Park events, the main focus is the Best Conditioned Award presented for each class. The entire prize money fund is dedicated to this prestigious accolade as judged by the Members of the Veterinary Commission. Event Director, Nick BrooksWard of HPower Endurance, said: “This was a great start to what promises to be a fabulous summer at Euston Park culminating in the H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum UK Endurance Festival on 17th-19th August. As ever huge thanks go to the Duke of Grafton for allowing us to use Euston Park for another year, to local land owners and all of our stewards and volunteers.”

Anna PeruzziSmith wins at Anvil Park Stud

nna Peruzzi-Smith from Diss, Norfolk clinched the top spot in the Nupafeed Supplements Senior Discovery Second Round at Anvil Park Stud in Norwich, with Empire Power N. Nineteen initially contended an 11-fence track with nine coming forward into round two, but these were further reduced to just three for the final jumpoff. A third clear failed to materialise, Anna making just one mistake coming out of the penultimate double for a four fault score on Carol Gee’s Empire Power N, a 9-year-old Indorado x Orame mare she has competed for 12 months. But it was sufficient for victory as no treble clears were produced and Anna was awarded the only qualifying place in the Nupafeed Supplements Senior Discovery Final at the British National Championships at Stoneleigh.

Wphicattuare! King Arthur and Olivia Faulkner

Photo: Spidge Photography

n the heat of the June sunshine some of the country’s best show riders and producers hotly contested the showing classes at The Al Shira'aa Hickstead Derby Meeting. In the Alltech Small Riding Horse, Jayne Ross and Casino III claimed the title for the third successive year, with locallybased Oliver Hood riding Diamonds are Forever to victory in the Alltech Large Riding Horse securing the Alltech Supreme Riding Horse Championship, just as his Dad, Allister did in 2018. Jayne was also on winning form in both the Alltech Small Hack and the Alltech Lightweight Hunter, winning with Moluccas High Thyme and Temple Ogue. Her ride from 2017, Bloomfield Valhalla defended his title in the Alltech Middleweight Hunter. Henrietta Spencer riding Lord John retained the Alltech Heavyweight Hunter, for the third year running, before taking The Alltech Supreme Hunter

Alison Thompson presenting the prize for The Alltech Supreme Hack Championship to Jo Bates

Championship. A highlight of the meeting was Jo Bates winning the Alltech Large Hack and then going on to take the Alltech Supreme Hack Championship riding Suzannah Welby’s prolific champion, Elusive. The prize was presented to Jo by Alison Thompson who had won the honour in a joint competition between Alltech and World Horse Welfare.

A first International win for Imogen

Image courtesy of Lorraine Porter.

Alltech showing classes hotly contested at Hickstead

n the same week that Imogen Murray, 24 from Leicestershire, was announced as a long list reserve for Equestrian Team GBR’s World Equestrian Games squad, she claimed victory in the CIC* class at Great Witchingham International in Norfolk. It may come as a surprise to some that this is a first international win for the young rider who finished eleventh at this year’s Mitsubishi Motor’s Badminton Horse Trials. With numerous National wins and International placings to her name, the win was seeming ever elusive. "A first International win seems a long time coming. We probably all assumed it would be with Fred (Wiseguy IV) or Charles (Ivar Gooden), as I came pretty close at Barbury with both of them, but Petal is an out and out superstar. She’s loving being ‘the best horse on the yard’”, commented Imogen. Paired with the diminutive in nature but big in personality and scope, I’ve Dun Talking, the pair jumped their way to victory in Saturday’s jumping phases, under the hot Norfolk sun. Despite having lead the feature International class with her second ride SJL Convince Me, after Friday’s dressage, the 14.2hh dun mare galloped ahead of her younger stable mate to claim the win.

Fletchers Farm Showjumping, 1st July

Paloma O’Connor - Sparks Will Fly

Grace Glanville – Apache

Charlotte Cotton – Whizz

1st Megan Cock - Bambi

VETS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

VETERINARY CONTACTS

Ryder-Davies & Partners VETERINARY SURGEONS Our experienced equine team offer a range of services throughout Suffolk, South Norfolk & North Essex Services include: • Full lameness investigations • Teeth rasping & advanced dental work • Pre purchase examinations • Vaccinations, worming regimes • Equine reproductive stud work • BEVA accredited practice for chilled & frozen semen • Investigation of breeding problems in mares Facilities include: Inpatient and outpatient stabling with 24 hour care • Digital x-ray, In-house laboratory, endoscope & digital ultrasound. We offer: Visits on a round-reduced visit fee Yard visit days- no visit fee • Spread the cost health plans Regular client information evenings & newsletters. www.ryder-daviesvets.co.uk

24 Hour Emergency Support Tel: 01394 380083

HAWKEDON VETS EQUINE PRACTICE 01284 789428

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Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP29 4NP

www.hawkedonvets.co.uk

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