Absolute Horse - July 2018 by Absolute Horse Magazine

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E M K ’M C -I ! PI P EE U R

Absolute

JULY 2018

PLUS

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

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JULY

2018 ISSUE 324

Sarah Field from Ipswich qualifying for HOYS at the SEIB Search for a Star qualifier at Stetcholt EC see page 53 for full report. Photo by SMR Photos.

REGULARS 4 News Ariat Saddle Snaps 6 7 Sophie Callahan’s Shoot of the Month - Gracie Tyte 39 Catch up with Gaby Lucas 50 Reports 60 PhotoNews 62 Vets Directory 63 Classifieds 64 Showdates COMPETITIONS & GIVEAWAYS 24 Absorbine

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.

25 Aniwell 30 British Horse Feeds 32 Horslyx 34 Equine America & KM Elite 35 Horsehage 37 The Spanish Boot Co 39 Equitheme FEATURES 8 What’s On 10 Special Feature: Equine Fraud 11 Futurity Plans 12 Special Feature: Behind the scenes of a photoshoot 14 Suffolk County Dressage Team

How to contact and connect with us...

18 26 28 36 40 42 44 46 47 48 49

INSIDE

WHAT’S

Health & Welfare Special Feature: Women in Business Nutrition Buyer’s Guide Ride Like: James Sommerville Ride Like: Lissa Green Tutorial: Nicola Wilson Tutorial: Harriet MorrisBaumber Meet Colin Bramley-Robins On the Market Lisa’s Life

01473 731220

office@ahmagazine.com

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PCD Media ( East Anglia) Ltd, Home Barn, Grove Hill, Belstead, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3LS

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NEWS

Photo: Swingletree Photography

STOP PRESS:

Norfolk’s Sandringham House offers the perfect setting for the annual Attelage de Tradition carriage driving event on 30th June-1st July. Spectators can enjoy seeing the horses and vehicles close-up and driven while the drivers are judged on their carriage, horse and harness; they take part in a road drive and finally drive a course of cones to determine the winner. www.attelagedetradition.co.uk

SEIB Search for a Star Riding for the Disabled Following on from its firstyear success in 2017, the SEIB Search for a Star Riding for the Disabled (RDA) showing series is set for a great second season. To make it easier for competitors to qualify for the Brook-Leigh Johnson - Wrentnall showman. prestigious 2018 SEIB Search Photo: SMR Photos. for a Star RDA final at the British Show Horse Association (BSHA) Hunter Championship Show at Addington in September there will be just the one further qualifier this year. This qualifier will take place at the Riding for the Disabled Championships at Hartpury College on the 13th July. Competitors entering the qualifier at Hartpury will have the opportunity for a chance to join the horse and rider combinations already qualified for the finals. www.search4astar.org.uk and click to the RDA section.

SOVEREIGN COINS LAUNCHED

To mark Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Sapphire Coronation Jubilee, collectables firm The Bradford Exchange has released a brand new limited edition gold sovereign coin. The 2018 Gold Quarter Sovereign features a portrait of the Queen on horseback, this is the first time that such a portrait has been used. The Bradford Exchange also donated the full set of coins, worth over £1,500, to The Horse Rangers Association, a charity dedicated to supporting children by giving them the opportunity to learn to ride and care for horses. www.bradford.co.uk/goldcoin

A new shopping platform offering a comprehensive range of equestrian clothing and accessories for horse and rider, from some of the biggest brands in the equine industry, is now open. The website launched in May and customers can also try the products first hand at the company’s dedicated Equestrian showroom in Essex. www.thedrillshed.com

FUN & FREE

SUMMER CLUB

Young horse fans can enjoy an exciting peak into the world of Redwings Horse Sanctuary this summer with a series of fun and free activities for children over the school holidays. Kicking-off on Monday 30th July, the charity’s visitor centres in Norfolk, Essex and Warwickshire will be hosting a free Summer Club for children aged six to 11 – and bookings are being taken now! The Summer Club will provide a taster of what it’s like to be a Redwings vet, a field officer, a farrier and even a horsey dentist with hands-on activities. www.redwings.org.uk/newsand-views/summer-club-2018

COMPETITION WINNERS: Equisafety: Helen Reeve, Suffolk. Equitheme: Rosie Wilson, Essex. Equitheme Cooltech Sheet: Christy Calder, Essex; Deidre Carter, Lincs; Hannah Broughton, Norfolk; Martine Holden, Norfolk; Petula Koller, Cambs; Ruth Etteridge, Norfolk; Vicky Jefferies, Cambs. Suregrow: Ally Wright, Suffolk. Grubs: Julie Lumsden, Suffolk. Hickstead Tickets: Lilli Hughes, Essex. Speedibeet: Anne Thompson, Suffolk; Debbie Mace, Suffolk; Eleanor Simmons, Essex; Emma Browne, Suffolk; Janice Daines, Suffolk; Katie Saunders, Herts; Kim Phillips, Essex; Liz Booth, Suffolk; Nicola Haden-Scott, Suffolk; Susan Winney, Suffolk; Vicki Rudd, Essex; Wendy Wyatt, Cambs.

rday 14th July • • •

Open Day is on Satu • • • STOP PRESS: Forelock & Load’s Summer Sizzle 4

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Made in UK

RIDING BOOTS SHOWING BOOTS & GAITERS

CALF ANY WIDTH 13” TO 19” SHORT LEG HEIGHT AVAILABLE SIZE 2 TO 14 MENS & LADIES MADE -TO MEASURE AVAILABLE

WARM IN WINTER - COOL IN SUMMER

124th

SPECIAL FEATURES: • CLIMATE CONTROL TECHNOLOGY • WATERPROOF LEATHER • STIRRUP BALANCE SYSTEM • HOOF PROOF TOE PROTECTION WWW.EQUITECTOR.COM TELEPHONE: 0208 090 4029

2018

• Refreshments

July 21st 2018

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SADDLE SNAPS

SADDLE

SNAPS

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

ARIAT BURFORD BOOTS

- Bridie Clifford

“I wanted her to be a show cob but she insisted on trying to be the new plus-size Masta rug range model!”

worth over £130!

- Charlotte Martin - Ellie Hastings

“It’s a spider!!!”

“Yes, of course I’M MORE photogenic!”

Sponsored by

- Charlotte Green “All that grass has made me so sleepy!”

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!

- Georgia Prosser

- Gemma White

“Pucker up sis!”

WINNER! “Mum, can you please hurry up, I’ve read this page already!”

- Emily Bakes

“Cheese!”

“Can I just look at the photo, I wanna make sure you got my best angle”

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Sohf othoet Month

Gracie Tyte with Danny and Prince

- Hebe Williams Meet the picnic poacher!

- Tegan White

“I am not impressed!”

- Lorraine Holmes

“Let’s go showing she said, it will be fun she said!”

couple of weeks back I had a very special evening shoot with Gracie Tyte and her two ponies, Danny and Prince. If you’re an Instagram junkie (like me) you might better recognise Gracie under the name @pony_nuts because she’s a bit of an Instaceleb in the equestrian world. Dan is the smaller of the two ponies and has been with Gracie and her family for three years. He was rescued as a foal when he was due to be used in a medical experiment in Newmarket. A vet saved all of the foals and sold them on to loving homes for £20. Danny’s previous owners said that he was a bit of a handful and used to box people into the corner of his stable. But Gracie says that despite the fact that he’s definitely still a small pony with a big attitude, he has been her horse of a lifetime, taking her from a nervous rider to

Facebook: /SophieCallahanPhotos Instagram: @sophiecallahan

competing at six national championships last year, including gaining three national titles and competing for English Schools. At 18-years-old, and only 13.2hh, Gracie is fast outgrowing Dan and he is now living a slower pace of life. Which leads me on nicely to Prince. Gracie says he is literally a bigger, younger Dan, without the attitude. Liskillen Prince is a 14.2hh Connemara and has been with Gracie for three months. The pair have already had a triple clear at the NSEA County SJ Championships in the 95cm and a double clear around their first two BE90’s, finishing eighth and second. What a start! Gracie says that this season they hope to continue to compete successfully at 90 and 100, with the aim to just have a lot of fun and see where it takes them. Read more about Gracie Tyte on page 12.

Sophie x 7

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WHAT’S ON FORCES EQUINE GAMES - 20TH 21ST OCTOBER

The Vintage Tack Room will launch its own ladies hunt coat at Lycetts Festival of Hunting 2018

LYCET TS FESTIVAL OF HUNTING - 18TH JULY The prestigious Lycetts Festival of Hunting will take place on Wednesday 18th July at the East of England Showground, Peterborough. For many, the day marks the highlight of the summer social calendar and includes the Peterborough Royal Foxhound Show which celebrates its 130th anniversary this year.

The 2018 Lycetts Festival of Hunting looks to build upon the enormous success of last year’s show, where an enthusiastic crowd of over 7,000 hunting and countryside supporters attended. The historic event is an annual showcase for the world of hunting and boasts the greatest gathering of hounds in the

country. As ever, Lycetts Festival of Hunting will play host to a vibrant variety of showing classes with in-hand and ridden equine classes and qualifiers for the Horse of the Year Show in many categories, as well as the much-loved inter-hunt relays. www.festivalofhunting.com

UK Public Services Equestrian Championships take place at Morton Morrell. It is exclusively for the UK Public Services Community, Serving, ExServing, Staff and Dependants of and raising money for The Air Ambulance Service. British Dressage will be hosting the Associated Championships which is exclusively open to UK Public Service personnel, their staff and dependants who have qualified. British Riding Clubs are invited to compete against Forces Equine. Members of the UK public are invited to watch. www.fegames.uk

RDA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS 13TH -15TH JULY The Riding for the Disabled Association National Championships – the biggest event of its kind in the world for disabled horse riders and carriage drivers – returns with nine new classes in equestrian vaulting and the first ever Endurance competition at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire. The three-day event, which also features dressage, showjumping and carriage driving, attracts over 400 qualifying competitors from all over the UK.

Cpl Samantha Slater AGC British Army Photo: Kevin Sharrock

LIVERPOOL INTERNATIONAL HORSE SHOW 28TH -31ST DECEMBER Standing at just 30 inches tall, Mr Frosty or Prince to his friend’s, is the new official mascot of the 2018 Liverpool International Horse Show! The cremello Shetland will certainly turn heads as he attends a wide variety of events in the run up to show. www.liverpoolhorseshow.com

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SPECIAL FEATURE

EQUINE FRAUD COSTS VICTIMS

£70,000 A

ction Fraud is warning the equestrian community about a scam involving fake adverts of horses for sale. Victims are told to pay an up-front fee for the horse and it’s shipment only to later find that it doesn’t exist. Between 2014 and 2017, victims lost £68,717 to this fraud; an average of £3,436 per victim. Action Fraud is warning horse buyers about fraudulent ‘for sale’ adverts. Fraudsters are placing fake adverts on reputable equestrian sale websites to scam victims out of large amounts of money. Fraudsters will even support their claims of the horse’s existence by supplying copies of relevant ownership documents, pictures and videos of the animal. Although the adverts claim the horses are located in the UK, victims are later told that they’re located elsewhere in Europe and that the horse’s shipment can be arranged via an animal transport company. On agreeing to buy the horse, victims are then contacted by someone who claims to be an agent of the transport company, who asks them to pay the purchase price and shipping costs of the animal either by money transfer or a direct transfer of funds into a nominated bank account. In some cases, victims are contacted about problems with the horse’s delivery, such as the need for vaccinations, special insurance or costs arising from veterinary fees and requests are made to cover these additional costs. Head of Action Fraud, Pauline Smith, said: “With such large amounts of money

Case study 1: Victim lost £6,800 The victim was looking to purchase a horse and was in contact with the ‘seller’ who advised the total amount was for the horse, shipping, transportation and documents as the animal was coming from Germany. Victim paid £6,800 in total via Western Union and was later asked to pay another £1,700 as the horse was stuck in Belgium. The victim knew at this point that it was suspicious and managed to gain the seller’s phone number which was traced back to Cameroon.

suggests that the horse is in the UK but involved, this type of fraud can have a significant and severe impact on the health the seller later informs you that it is in another country. and wellbeing of victims. “If you are looking to buy a horse online, it • Be cautious when buying a horse without seeing it, particularly when the only is vital that you thoroughly check the option of a vet check has been the seller’s details of where you are making the vet. purchase from and be sure to follow our • Never pay by bank transfer for goods advice below. which will be subject to delivery as the “We urge those who think they have been payment cannot be reversed. a victim of fraud to report this to Action • Be cautious of transactions where the Fraud.” seller or shipping agent asks you to make How to stay safe when payment by sending money via a money purchasing a horse online: transfer company as the payment cannot • Be wary of horses being offered for sale be reversed. below their usual market value, • Check the country code of the seller’s particularly where the seller is looking for telephone number and make sure it a quick sale due to a recent family relates to the country that they claim to bereavement, marital breakdown or be in. other issues. If an offer seems too good Every Report Matters – If you have been a to be true, it probably is. victim of equine fraud, report it to Action • Be wary of purchases where the advert Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040. Action Fraud is the UK’s national fraud and cyber crime reporting centre, providing a central point of contact for citizens and businesses. The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) also hosted by the City of London Police, acts upon the information and crimes reported to Action Fraud, developing and disseminating crime packages for investigation locally, regionally and nationally. The NFIB also execute a range of disruption and crime prevention techniques for victims across all sectors to target criminality and engineer out the threat from fraud and cyber crime.

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Axel Rose. Photos: Kevin Sparrow

BRITISH BREEDING ANNOUNCES:

FUTURITY PLANS

ritish Breeding, the new management company in charge of the former BEF Equine Development Programme, is delighted to announce plans for its 2018 British Breeding Baileys Horse Feeds Futurity evaluations. This series aims to identify talented horses that will go on to compete successfully in the future. The series will be held over two separate weeks this year, to give breeders a choice to present foals and young stock at the peak of their development. The Futurity will be open to foals, yearlings, 2 and 3-year-olds in the disciplines of Dressage, Endurance, Eventing and Show Jumping. The series will take place across 11 locations including Writtle College, Essex on 20th August and The College EC, Keysoe, Bedfordshire on 21st August.

so that each horse is assessed by the full panel. The panel will also include a highly regarded international Judge, which will give a wider perspective and help to fulfil the remit of the Futurity as a way of identifying future FEI prospects. The veterinary assessment will continue to be carried out by an experienced panel. This element of the Futurity evaluations covers key indicators of long term soundness and suitability for the sport, as well as giving valuable guidance on the correct management of young horses. An end of season Futurity Championship is also planned.

Enhanced Benefits While maintaining the same entry price for the Futurity, the team are working on numerous added benefits to breeders, to ensure that the Futurity provides value for money. Regional veterinary practices are Familiar Format being invited to offer a wider The Futurity will return to the range of services on the day, popular system of having all including marking sheets and evaluators together in the arena, microchipping, which breeders

can then send to their relevant breed societies for registration of their foals. Rachael Holdsworth explains: “Futurity reports are picked up widely by regional, national and international media. There will be an opportunity to expand this by using the Futurity website and the presence of excellent professional photographers and videographers to provide additional sales and marketing opportunities to our breeders in the form of online classifieds and social media exposure.” The team wants to attract larger audiences to become interested in British breeding, and the series offers an ideal opportunity to enjoy a great day of looking at beautiful horses and meeting their breeders. Anybody looking to buy a young horse can use the series as an opportunity to see a wide range of horses. The added benefit to buyers is the reassurance that each foal and horse has been seen and assessed by a reputable veterinarian and by a panel of highly qualified Judges. The Futurity is also a great opportunity for young breeders and riders to come and learn about young horse development. The team aims to work with the British Young Breeders and equine students and apprentices to widen participation. World-Leading Evaluation System The Futurity provides excellent assessment systems. Eva-Maria Broomer explains: “The Futurity offers an objective and detailed feedback system

based on performance potential for everyone in Britain breeding sport horses and ponies from licensed or approved stallions, irrespective of type, studbook or breed.” New for 2018 will be an enhancement of the linear score sheets to make them easier to understand, with a physical copy for breeders to take home. Rachael Holdsworth said, “The correct management of broodmares, foals, and young horses is crucial to ensuring the best long-term outcomes for British bred horses. We are therefore delighted that the Futurity continues to be supported by Baileys Horse Feeds who will be our headline sponsor again for 2018, and who will continue to provide their highly valued nutritional advice to all participants.”

Beyond the Futurity: The Equine Bridge British Breeding recognises the importance of the Equine Bridge as a pathway for British bred horses into the sport. With representation in its board from the three Olympic disciplines, it will foster a greater connection between breeder, riders, and owners, and offer a new and far reaching approach to making the Equine Bridge an integral part of the sport and a mechanism for the discovery and recruitment of talent. This requires a fresh approach, and the British Breeding Futurity Bridge will therefore be relaunched in 2019. Horses that have already qualified for 2018 will be able to join the programme next year. www.britishbreeding.com

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SPECIAL FEATURE

MAKING THE BEST OF THE BAD WEATHER...

! e l y t s e Graci

GRACIE TYTE IS A NAME YOU MAY BE FAMILIAR WITH AS SHE IS A LOCALLYBASED YOUNG RIDER WHO ALONG WITH HER 13.2HH GELDING DANNY, AND 14.2HH CONNEMARA PRINCE, COMPETES IN EVENTING, DRESSAGE AND SHOWJUMPING AT COUNTY AND NATIONAL LEVEL. HOWEVER INSTAGRAM FANS AMONGST US WILL BE MORE FAMILIAR WITH @pony_nuts - GRACIE’S SUPER-POPULAR INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT THAT HAS GARNERED A MASSIVE 70K FOLLOWERS. HER YOUTUBE CHANNEL HAS OVER 12K SUBSCRIBERS AND OVER 900K VIEWS OF HER ONLINE VIDEOS. BASED IN SUFFOLK, GRACIE RECENTLY HAD A PHOTOSHOOT WITH ONE OF HER SPONSORS, LIKIT PRODUCTS, AND WE MANAGED TO GET BEHIND THE SCENES. THE WEATHER MAY HAVE BEEN AWFUL, BUT EVER THE PROFESSIONAL, GRACIE GAVE THE LIKIT TEAM THE IMAGES THEY WERE AFTER.

Likit Brand Ambassadors Harriet Barron from St. Albans and Gracie at this year’s Badminton

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...and now for the outtakes!

Could YOU be the next Ambassador?

The hugely popular social media campaign to find the next Likit Brand Ambassadors launches on 16th July and invites genuine Likit fans to create video entries explaining why they and their horse or pony should be a part of #teamlikit. Open to riders of all ages, the successful candidates will each receive a year’s supply of Likit products plus branded kit, as well as their own blog on the company’s website and a £100 training bursary. Keep an eye on the Likit social media pages or sign up to their newsletter for updates. www.likit.co.uk

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SUFFOLK COUNTY SPECIAL FEATURE

Under the Spotlight:

DRESSAGE TEAM ON THE BACK OF THEIR BEST EVER FINISH OF THIRD PLACE IN 2017, THE SUFFOLK DRESSAGE TEAM ARE LOOKING TO FINISH EVEN HIGHER ON THE PODIUM THIS YEAR. TAKING PLACE AT THE COLLEGE EC, KEYSOE ON SATURDAY 7TH AND SUNDAY 8TH JULY, SUFFOLK COUNTY COORDINATOR, TAMMY RUFFLES AND HER TEAM OF RIDERS WILL BE COMPETING IN THIS YEAR’S INTER COUNTY DRESSAGE CHALLENGE. TAMMY, AN EXPERIENCED RIDER HERSELF RIDING UP TO INTER1, SPENDS MONTHS WORKING TIRELESSLY TO BRING TOGETHER RIDERS AND SPONSORS. WE TAKE A LOOK AT THIS YEAR’S TEAM...

TEAM SPONSORS:

Jess Edwards McTimoney

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MEET THE TEAM: PRELIM “I started riding on the farm at home in Suffolk where I had my first pony at 4years- old. “My biggest achievement to date has been Jumping at the Royal Windsor Horse Show, and I’m currently aiming for summer regionals on my 5-year-old. As well as 5-year-old young horse classes. “The best advice I have ever received is “sit back and hold tight!” “I have trained with Tammy Ruffles for over ten years, and after completing my Masters in Veterinary Physiotherapy next year I hope to compete George a lot more and progress up the levels.” WOODCROFT LARIMAR - AKA GEORGE (5-years-old) George is master of spooking.

JENNY JAMES

EMMA OWEN

“Both my parents hacked and hunted so soon as I could walk I was put on a pony and followed them around, joining the local Pony Club when I was about 7/8. “I’ve never really had easy horses to ride from a young age. Ponies used to nap and my 14.2hh was a bolter. So it made me the rider I am today and I love problem solving and turning horses around for others. But my best achievement has got to be producing my own up to BE Novice/Intermediate successfully! Having supported a couple of friends at Badminton Grassroots this year, I would love to get a horse qualified for this event. As an eventer Blenheim, Chatsworth is a dream too.” HERALD DD - AKA SIMBA (6-years-old) Simba is a horse I have produced myself. When he arrived from Holland he was wild, literally. Took us days to catch him in the stable, age 4. He’s come along way, although he is still unsure of strangers.

“I started riding at the age of 2. “My biggest achievements include top placings at Riding Club Championships at Lincoln, Aston-le-walls, Swalecliffe and Bury Farm. Winning Ridden at Veteran Horse Society Championships. “The best advice ever given to me is ‘Remember there is always another day’ - that and getting someone else to plait for you! “My superstitions include wearing my lucky shirt. “I’ve trained with Moray Nicholson, Zara Pawley, Tammy Ruffles and the Assoulines. “I’d love to compete at HOYS, and my future plans include being part of Suffolk Dressage Team and seeing how far it can take me.”

JOE MACE

CARILLON - AKA SOLLY (6-years-old) Solly is very nibbly and is always lying down asleep.

“I’m 10-years-old and started riding when I was in my mummy's tummy. “My biggest achievement is getting selected for the Suffolk team and qualifying for The Hickstead Masters. One day I would love to compete at Olympia and ride for Team GB. “The best advice I have been given is to enjoy it and smile and ride like my trainer Tammy Ruffles. “If I could do a test on any horse it would be Rubin's Nite and Nia Mae (Ada Mae’s full sister ) “My good luck charm is my mum. I am trained by the amazing Tammy Ruffles and have had lessons with Hayley Watson Greaves and Spenser Wilton. “My future plans are to train and compete up the levels and I could not do any of this without my pony’s lovely owner Claire and the best trainer in the world Tammy.”

RUBY LOU MORPHEY

CAMPION CASCADE (11-years-old) Ada loves kisses and gives lots back especially to her farrier. She has the most expressive ears and nostrils! If she was human she would be a ballerina in a pink tu-tu!

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MEET THE TEAM: NOVICE “I started riding at the age of five. On my fifth birthday I got a grey Shetland pony called Sparkle, she was very naughty, but started off my love for riding. “My biggest achievement is coming thirteenth at the Petplan Equine Area Festival championships at Hartpury College although I’d love to compete at The Home Internationals. “The best advice I’ve been given is to never think ‘I can’t’ as then the horse will think ‘they can’t’ too. “If I could take a test on any horse it wold have to be Florentina VI. “I would love to have another horse that would enable me to compete at PSG or higher! But still keep Hero as he is my horse of a life time.”

ALICE CROFT

HIGGLYTOWN HERO - AKA HERO (11-years-old) Hero always holds one foot up whilst eating his dinner every night! “I started riding aged 10 at a riding school then bought my first pony at 13. Being placed at the Riding Club Championships has been my biggest achievement to date. “Hopefully one day I will compete at the BD Nationals. but until then I will follow the advice of just ‘Keep at it’. “If I could take a test on any horse it would be Blue Hors Matine. “I currently train with Adam Smyth, and I hope to qualify for the Winter Regionals with my own horse.”

CAROL FLOWER

HALF MOON DESTINY (10-years-old) Owned by my daughter Emma.

“My Mum put me on her horse at just a few months old and then taught me to ride at 3years-old and I don’t think I’ve had many days off since! However my biggest achievement has been completing Badminton Mitsubishi Motors Cup in May this year with Ron which was absolutely amazing, he’s only been eventing a year so I was so pleased with him for getting round! I remember being told by Sharon Hunt to ride every fence like a drop fence and it’s something I’ve never forgotten, definitely made me sit up on landing! “I always wear the same socks to a show, I can’t cope if I have a different pair on! “I’m hoping to get Ron to Badminton again next year and I am aiming to do a 1* on my other horse Pierre in the near future.“ FERDY LL - AKA RON (8-years-old) Ron is so incredibly bone idle, he only does what he has to but comes into his own when you’re riding him. He has his own little fan club too, all the children love him and even though he’s 17.1hh he is such a gentle giant and is so good with them.

SARA TOLLER

“My parents ran a riding school so I was 2-years-old when I was put on a pony! “My biggest achievement to date has been the Petplan Festival final at Hartbury in Prelim this year, however on my competition bucket list I have to qualify for the BD Regional finals at Novice and Elementary level and to try and get onto the Home International team. “The best advice I’ve been given is to “Ride your horse not your test”. “If I could take a test on any horse, past or present it would have to be Brigham! “I train with Paul Hayler, Brigit Whitburn and Alma Haylor and I hope to keep progressing through the grades and aim to ride at the Regionals at Elementary level.” BRIGHAM (17-years-old)

CARRIE EVE

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MEET THE TEAM: ELEMENTARY “I started riding when I was 6. My Grandparents bought my brother and I a pony called Bubbles, who bit me the first day I met her, and she continued to bite me until she died at 23. “My biggest achievement so far was riding at the BD National Winter Championships at Hartpury College this April, in the Novice Silver Area final, and finishing in the top half of our section. Now we want to go again, and to qualify my music freestyle as well. “The best advice I can give - you get out what you put in, work hard and you will achieve your goals. Sometimes it's really hard work though! “I train with Tammy Ruffles, aka Guru as I call her, I wouldn't have achieved as much as we have without her. We are off to the BD Summer Music finals, and we have qualifiers for Area and Regional finals to do also, so it's going to be a busy summer.” ROUVIN (9-years-old) He absolutely loves Likits, he can crunch them in one bite despite hanging them in awkward places!

SARAH AGAR

CAROLINE STEWARD

“I’m from a non horsey background and started riding as a teenager after booking a riding lesson with a group of friends and it went from there. “My biggest achievement has to be taking my horse Cloud from a 4-year-old through the levels to riding at Medium level at dressage. Riding for the Suffolk team in 2014, 2016 and 2017, however I’d love to be brave enough to compete at BE! “The best advice I’ve been given is to enjoy your horse as much as possible and make the most of his strengths.” CALICO CLOUD (14-years-old) Extremely greedy, a bit of a wimp and enjoys breaking tea mugs!

“I started riding at the age of 5-years-old. My sister’s old pony came back home after being on loan and mum started leading me around on him, the love of riding started then. “My biggest achievement to date has been competing at the British Dressage Winter Regional at Elementary level. Also competing at the Mitsubishi Motors Cup at Badminton this year in May. “I’ve qualified for the Summer Dressage Regional at Elementary level which I will be competing at. I also hope to compete at the U25 National Championships at Sheepgate. “My future plans are to get Ruby to Medium dressage and carrying on eventing her at BE100. With my young horse Merlin my future plans are to improve his dressage as that is his weakness. I’m hoping to event him at novice at the end of the year and then go 1* next year.”

KELSEY LOVE

CASTLE HOUSE GEM - AKA RUBY (14-years-old) She does not like hot air balloons!

LAURA SMITH

“I started riding at Newton Hall aged 4 with Rossie Theobald who is one of my parent’s close friends. “I’m lucky enough for this to be my fourth year riding for Team Suffolk, although I would love to ride at the Nationals at some point. “The best advice that I have been given is to try and enjoy myself when competing. It is meant to be fun so I don’t take things too seriously. I would love to do a test on Nip Tuck. He is quirky and so expressive. “I don’t have any superstitions or good luck charms but I have to put my saddle on myself. If someone else does it then I have to re do it all.” GOODIE TWO SHOES (9-years-old) If Goodie sees me go anywhere near the lorry, he runs away when I try to catch him.

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HEALTH & WELFARE

Stress Free

require refrigeration. A good waterproof sunblock is vital for horses with exposed areas of pink and white skin, careful attention should be placed on the muzzle, around the eyes and the heels, as these are often overlooked. Sunburn on the muzzle is particularly prone to becoming sore and infected. Flies will be attracted to dried sweat and can be a real nuisance and reduced rainfall, causing a during the summer months, so number of problems such as be conscientious about concussion to the legs and removing sweat. bruising to the soles, resulting in Activ Scrub is an antibacterial inflammation and swelling. cleansing scrub that can be used Animalintex Hoof Treatment as a body wash post-exercise. should be a staple of any first aid A suitable fly repellent is an kit, the hoof shaped poultice is essential item in your summer ideal for treating bruising of the kit and should be applied before sole. exercise or turnout to deter flies. Koolpak can also be used to Always remember to replace provide instant relief to legs by items as soon as they are used as reducing heat and swelling using delaying treatment while you cold therapy. It is an important rush off to the local tack shop product to remember to pack in will affect the speed of recovery. your first aid kit, especially when www.robinsonanimal travelling away from home to healthcare.com competitions, and it doesn’t

! r e m m u S

ost horse owners would agree that we all endure the difficulties of winter to reap the rewards of owning a horse during summer. Long hacks, endless daylight hours to get jobs done and attending competitions all make surviving the winter worthwhile. However, summer can also have its pitfalls, as our horses spend more time in the field, leading to an increased risk of injury, not to mention the issues that crop up as the temperature starts to rise. Making sure your first aid kit is summer ready is essential to

enjoying a stress-free summer. Some of the contents of your first aid kit will adapt to common summer ailments but a few extra additions might be necessary to ensure you are prepared. Hard ground in summer is inevitable due to increased heat

Product News... Hoof Balm is a super concentrated blend of natural oils that shine, moisturise, nourish and protect the hoof, whilst still letting it breathe. These oils enable the delivery of moisture, nutrients and protection deep into the inner layers of the hoof whilst providing bacterial and anti-fungal protection. RRP: £9.99 (500ml) and £43.20 (3Ltr yard size).

Super Hoof Powder Plus is a concentrated supplement, containing no fillers, but with high levels of Biotin, Zinc, Methionine and Sulphur. These ‘all active’ ingredients work quickly on cracked or damaged hooves, stimulating hoof growth and horn quality. RRP: £25.25 (454g). Hoof Magic supports strong healthy hooves and offers a daily protection against cracks and brittleness. A powerful and fast acting liquid hoof supplement with high levels of biotin and supporting nutrients. Available in 1Ltr (a 37 day supply). www.equine-america.co.uk

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HEALTH & WELFARE

SUMMER HOOF CARE ust like our own hair and nails, environment has its part to play all year round. We love to see the long summer evenings and the warmer weather, full day shows and hopefully more sunshine than rain. Ever thought how the summer affects your horse’s feet though; maybe you’ve a problem horse and know only too well? If they are in and out of sand, muck, dry bedding, dusty fields, this constant battle of environments is going to take its toll. So how do we counteract that? Topical treatments on hooves can protect and create a barrier, but not all barriers are equal, so do your research. We use

beeswax, as it’s the only natural barrier that’s breathable and is the main base to our hoof balm. This will still allow the hoof to do everything it should, but it also creates the most wonderful barrier. This keeps unwanted moisture and bacteria out and natural moisture locked in. Like all living things the hoof needs to breathe, expand and contract depending on environment. The hoof is the horse’s shock absorber, which starts in the frog and spreads out through the tissue above the frog and on into the coffin joint and beyond. This nicely takes us to the sole and frog of the foot. We have all encountered thrush at some point, foot rot is another name. I’ll let that sink in. Foot Rot.

I’M CHERYL MCWILLIAMS AND THE OWNER OF MOTHER BEE - WE MAKE NATURAL SKINCARE PRODUCTS FOR YOU AND YOUR HORSE. Google that only in horses. I was in my late teens when I heard it called this, that hit me how serious thrush can be. If the integrity of the whole foot is compromised there is no chance of soundness and this bacterial/fungal problem has to be treated in the same way you would any serious condition your horse has. Depending on the severity you may need to seek veterinary advice but on the minor side, again a good quality topical treatment will tackle the bacteria and fungus. Our hoof balm contains both Eucalyptus and Tea Tree Essential oils which are both antifungal and antibacterial, it works on all aspects of hoof care. If your horse is more prone to this in winter months when stabled, now is the time to get on top of it. Even when they are in the field it’s important to pick out their feet and check for stones, thrush or any changes. It’s also just as important to not neglect your regular trims even for your field ornaments as the farrier can detect early changes including Laminitis or joint issues. www.motherbeeonline.co.uk

Hooflex Magic Cushion hoof packing is an efficient way to cool and cushion bruised soles and sore feet. Thermographic tests show that the all-natural formula starts working to reduce heat in hooves in just one hour and the cleaning and cushioning properties help to keep soles in good condition, even under pads. Formulated for use before and after competition. RRP: (Inc. VAT) £51.13/1.8kg tub. www.absorbine.co.uk

Aloeride is a pure organic and natural aloe vera supplement that could help improve your horses’ feet. Clinical trials have shown that aloe vera can boost hoof growth by more than 50% over a four-month period – and the unique spectrum of nutrients within Aloeride can bring even better results. RRP: £55.20 per carton (a month’s supply). www.aloeride.com

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PRODUCT

FEEDING FOR HOOF QUALITY... UNDER THE Hoof quality is usually at its worst during the dry summer months. This is because the effects of a dry summer after a wet winter damages hoof horn resulting in dry, brittle hooves that crack easily. A hoof supplement can only improve the quality of new horn growth - not existing horn. It takes nine to twelve months for new horn to grow down from the coronet to the bottom of the hoof. In other words what you feed will not affect the area the farrier is nailing shoes on for 9-12 months. There are two main actions you can take to try and improve hoof quality. One is to feed an effective hoof supplement as part of a well-balanced diet for at least twelve months; and the other is to employ a farrier to trim or shoe your horse’s feet regularly. In my experience good hoof quality can be achieved in about ninety percent of horses that had previously suffered from poor hoof quality if these two actions are taken. What nutrients should be present in an effective hoof supplement? Because hoof wall consists of more than 70% protein (the rest is mainly water) it is important that the horse receives ample good quality protein in his daily diet. A horse on a low protein diet or a horse on a lowcalorie diet to promote weight loss is more susceptible to poor hoof quality than a horse on a

wellbalanced diet to maintain or increase bodyweight. Biotin, methionine or cysteine, zinc, copper, iodine, calcium, fatty acids, and vitamin A all help to improve hoof quality and when fed balanced together have a greater effect than biotin alone. For horses working hard or needing extra condition feeding a top specification conditioning feed balancer will provide all the scientifically recommended levels of biotin and associated nutrients. For good-doers using a non-conditioning top specification feed balancer will provide all the nutrients to improve hoof quality. Article supplied by the TopSpec Nutrition Team. The TopSpec Multiple-Award-Winning-Helpline can be contacted, free of charge, on 01845 565030.

Product News... A salt-based product which can be added to the feed on a daily basis. For high level competition and endurance events, Apple Lytes are also available in a handy syringe for instant replenishment of electrolytes. Tub RRP: £16.99 (18.kg ) £54.99 (10kg). Syringe RRP: £10.99 (30ml). www.equine-america.co.uk

Revive is a great tasting powdered supplement that helps to maintain essential salts and minerals lost through sweat. Ideal for hot days and pre and post exercise. Easy to store in a resealable container and mixes easily in cold water. www.animal-health.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT Super Plus

Fly Repellent Since the successful launch of Super Plus Fly Repellent over 25 years ago, it continues to be a top selling product and constantly wins ‘Best In Test’ awards. Tried and trusted by thousands, Super Plus Fly Repellent does exactly what it says on the container – deters the largest of flying nuisance and blood sucking insects, including Midge, Bots, Horse, Black, Stable and Face Flies, as well as helping to calm and soothe the effects of midge bite. Suitable for application to pink, sore areas to help calm, soothe and stop the need to rub. Super Plus Fly Repellent contains the very best hair and skin conditioner available, which means that it does not have a drying effect on the coat. Barrier Animal Healthcare’s products all contain the highest quality 100% natural, non-irritant ingredients that are suitable for use in organic farming systems. www.flyrepel.com

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HEALTH & WELFARE

DAISY’S HERBAL ANSWERS... My horse is constantly bothered by the flies and seems to attract them more than the other horses in the field. She also seems to be particularly sensitive to bites and gets nasty lumps from them. Is there anything natural I can feed to deter them ? Garlic, Brewer’s Yeast and Turmeric are natural repellents, you need to feed them for 3-4 weeks before the bugs come out to get it into the skin/coat properly. Turmeric will also help with any itchiness and Brewer’s Yeast is great for improving the skin and coat. If she is already being bitten, you can feed Buckwheat which is a natural anti-histamine and

Product News...

will help with the swelling and itching. Feeding a combination of Burdock, Clivers, Nettle and Kelp will help to support the skin. Burdock works as a tissue cleanser and will remove toxins from the skin. The Nettle and Cleavers help to remove the toxins from the body. Sea Kelp is great for improving skin and coat health and is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. If you use Turmeric you will need to feed it with an oil (linseed or vegetable are fine) as it needs fat to be absorbed and ground black pepper to boost the absorption of curcumin.

Daisy Pric Herbalist e,

Revitalising Wash with Spearmint & Peppermint provides a refreshing and cooling wash for your horse/pony without chilling. Spearmint and peppermint are wonderful natural oils to use on hot, sticky summer days after exercise or competition. The cooling peppermint and icy spearmint will instantly cool the surface of the skin but have the ability to warm the animal inside. Combine this with natural coconut cleansers, probably the kindest yet most thorough cleanser; you have an excellent cooling product that also removes heavy perspiration and soiling with ease. Available in 5L, 1L and 500mls. www.flyrepel.com

Winner of BETA Innovation Award... The Leon Rug is a robust, multifunctional and breathable rug. The heavy-duty outer is lined with the hi-tech Welltex fabric to maximise the benefits of infrared for the wearer. A sturdy mesh covers the thin layer of Welltex to help keep the horse cool, calm and relaxed. Ideal for travelling and shows. RRP: £159. www.backontrack.com

New Aerochill Rug is designed to aid in cooling a horse, alleviating heat exhaustion and helping muscle recovery. It is made of a super-absorbent polymer fibre fabric that pulls heat from the horse and improves blood circulation. Available in two sizes: S/M to fit rug size 5ft9-6ft3. Large to fit approx size 6ft6 - 6ft9. RRP: from £159. www.treehouseonline.co.uk

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WIN! WIN! WIN! COMPETITION

WE’VE TEAMED UP WITH ABSORBINE, TO OFFER THREE LUCKY WINNERS THIS FANTASTIC PRIZE!

Absorbine UltraShield is the ultimate insecticide for use around horses to protect against irritating and biting insects. It contains active ingredients Permethrin and Pyrethrin, providing instant ‘knockdown’ when insects come into contact with it, as well as a longlasting protective ‘shield’. The product offers all-round protection in equestrian premises, stables and barns, and also in dog sleeping quarters. UltraShield Spray is instantly recognisable in its hallmark black bottle. RRP: 946ml - £24.77. The new UltraShield Fly Mask keeps horses cool, dry and comfortable, offering full-face protection from insects and the sun. The horse size is available with a removable nose option which firmly attaches with a sturdy hook-and-loop closure, particularly beneficial to lighter coloured noses, blocking 80% of harmful UV rays to protect sensitive skin. Now featuring a wider closure at the jowl keeping the mask secure, a new angle to the eye darts to increase protection around the eyes, added coating to the mesh to reduce solar glare, and reinforced double seams for even greater tear resistance. Horse, Cob and Warmblood size. RRP: from £21.56. For product and stockist information, visit www.absorbine.co.uk, or www.facebook.com/AbsorbineUK

Good Luc

To enter visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the competitions page. Entries open 1st July and close 31st July2018.

Product News... Sooth Itch For horses and ponies to relieve itching, sooth and encourage hair to grow back naturally. The product is completely natural and not harmful and can be applied directly to the skin of horses and ponies. Contains Lavender Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Chamomile Oil and Citrepel. RRP: £15.99 (500ml). Use So-Kalm Paste to ensure focus and calmness without removing the edge required for competition. Can be used alone or as a top up for So-Kalm Solution. Ideal to use before transporting young horses or in times of stress. So Kalm is not a dope so will not affect performance. RRP: £10.99 (30ml). www.equineamerica.co.uk

Absorbine CoolDown is a new, allnatural, herbal equine body wash made with 12 herbs and essential oils. It gently cools and refreshes whilst soothing tired muscles. Conditions the skin and coat, ensuring cleanliness without stripping out essential oils, making it ideal for daily use. Includes rosemary oil, peppermint oil, lavender oil, aloe vera juice, arnica extract and sassafras oil. RRP: (Inc. VAT) £23.03. www.absorbine.co.uk

Striking cob Blue Cross Jack Jack Photo: was taken in by Blue Cross Sheila when he was found Henry abandoned, wandering the lanes of East Anglia. Three years on he has qualified for the Hickstead Royal International Horse Show. ABANDONED At the time of rescue the Police signed him over to Blue COB QUALIFIES: Cross however he found a new HICKSTEAD home in no time. Sheila Henry couldn’t believe her luck when she found him on the Blue Cross website and took him on; friend Lacey Smith now rides him at shows while Lacey’s father Andrew is groom and helper.

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WIN! COMPETITION

WE’RE CAUTIOUS ABOUT THE CONDITION OF OUR HORSES BUT WHAT ABOUT

YOUR CONDITION?

e all know that horses out at grass are happier mentally than being stabled on hard feed. Humans were designed to eat unprocessed foods just like our beloved four legged friends and the ultra refined processed foods that the nation is eating today are contributing not only to our poor physical health but also to the decline in our mental health. I doubt you measure the calories that you give your horse because, well life is just too short isn’t it? But there is a really simple way to achieve portion control for yourself without counting calories and that’s by using your own uniquely sized ‘feed scoop’ your hands! The calories quoted on packets

don’t take into account the Thermal Effect, ie. how many calories are expended to break down your foods. Manufacturers are allowed to be on average up to 20% out on their calories, therefore accuracy in counting them is near as damn it impossible unless you’re within a laboratory environment. For example if you were to eat peanuts as the whole nuts themselves you’ll only absorb 70% of the calories within that portion. Yet if you were to eat peanut butter that’s already been broken down you’ll absorb 100% of the calories. Hence a calorie does NOT equal a calorie. Plus the thing about counting calories is that it doesn’t tell us about the quality of the foods we’re eating or the source, only how much.

WE HAVE TEAMED UP WITH ANIWELL TO OFFER 5 LUCKY READERS THE CHANCE TO WIN A SET OF THEIR POPULAR PRODUCTS FILTABAC, FILTACLEAR AND AMHVET.

BY SAMANTHA HARDINGHAM Using your own feed scoopers is the easiest, quickest way to portion control. A couple of points to add: • Build your meal with protein first, vegetables second, fat third and add grainy carbohydrates (quinoa, buckwheat, oats and brown rice) within two hours of exercising, if needed. (Vegetables and fruit are also carbohydrates) • Aim for three portions of vegetables/fruit with each meal - 10 a day keeps the doctor away! The UK recommended average of 5 vegetables a day is one of the lowest recommendations in the world! • Double the portions if you’re a man.

Good Luc

To enter visit www.absolutehorse magazine.com and click on the competitions page. Entries open 1st July and close 31st July2018.

EQUISAFETY SUPPORT THE HAPPA CONFERENCE

Equisafety Ltd have donated an Air Waistcoat signed by Sir Lee Pearson KBE in the hope that the monies raised from auctioning it off will go towards saving the life of a deserving equine at the Horse and Pony Protection Association (HAPPA) conference on 4th July 2018.

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SPECIAL FEATURE: WOMEN IN BUSINESS hunting country, which extends almost as far as Norwich and up to the Sandringham estate, remains well hunted. This is no mean feat as the varied landscape includes extensive coast lines, marshes, ditches and countless hunt jumps. Adding yet another plate to the spinning act, during the hunting season Ellie’s equine responsibilities increase as she takes on the care of her husband’s additional 2 to 3 horses together with her own.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A

Huntsman’s Wife llie Dunn’s life is a balancing act. As a keen hunter herself, the active 36-year-old wears many hats – mother, groom, Lycetts New Business Account Handler and wife of North Norfolk Harrier’s professional huntsman, Simon Dunn. The couple live with their 4-

year-old son Ralph at hunt kennels based on the scenic Sennowe Park estate in Norfolk. This stunning rural setting and the pair’s daily lives mean they know a thing or two about animals! A menagerie of terriers, horses and labradors, who regularly pick up at local shoots, form fond members of their

family. The couple’s canine commitments also extend to care takers for the only West Country Harriers pack outside of the West Country. Ellie’s husband, Simon is a former gamekeeper and continues to maintain strong relationships with local keepers, striving to ensure that the

“THEN THE LIGHTBULB MOMENT CAME...”

phy

uine Photogra

Photo: KT Eq

Have you ever needed to transport your horse and yet the quotes you’ve received are unaffordable? Or wanted to go to an event but not had the transport to get there? That’s exactly what lead to the launch of Transport My Equine. The brains behind the company are that of Mairead Martin. Having never owned a

horse herself until 2014 it seems unbelievable that such a unique concept was conceived by someone with no equine history. The lightbulb moment came to her after she started to frequent local shows with her own horse, Blue. Having dreamt of owning a horse since childhood, the reality didn’t come true until she was in her early 50’s.

However whilst out hacking they took a nasty tumble. Mairead sustained multiple breaks in her tibia and fibula as well as massive internal and soft tissue damage. This resulted in surgery and a prolonged stay in hospital. Being wheelchair bound and taking medication made focussing on work an impossible task and as a result Mairead lost the income she depended on

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This is a fine balance of carefully choreographed team work – Ellie’s alarm goes early each morning as she rises to feed, check and prepare Simon’s horses ready for him to exercise when he has finished kennels. Before leaving, Ellie will also ride her own two horses, an Irish sports horse named Herbie and cob Maximum. Simon brings the horses in during daylight and washes them (or tries to!), before Ellie gets home from her day at Lycetts. Ellie then picks up where Simon left off, preparing the horses for the next day’s hunting. In the spring and summer months, hunt society activities are a colourful addition to the couple’s calendar. Simon is particularly keen on welcoming new people to hunting and regularly organises hunt rides where mounted followers, some on horses that have never seen hounds, gently exercise with the hounds. Ellie’s passion for hunting extends into her day job. Ellie works part time for Lycetts’

specialist animal trades insurance arm, Cliverton, managing her time around her hunting commitments and working flexibly to fit around the season. Ellie says: “I’m extremely lucky that Lycetts understand about hunting. They see the benefits: that I am involved in local rural life and can talk to our prospective clients with an informed perspective. If someone calls about deer stalking or fox control, I know where they are coming from and they don’t have to explain it to me.” No two days are ever the same and Ellie’s hunting knowledge is invaluable for her role. Handling enquiries and providing quotes for all types of animal owner, Ellie takes care of clients of all sizes, from one-man dog walkers, to security companies with patrol dogs and pest controllers.

from her recruitment contracts. “I basically sold everything I had in order to keep Blue,” she said. It took time but eventually Mairead managed to get back in the saddle again, and a year on from the accident she saved up enough money to buy herself a trailer and started going to shows as well as having lessons. It was at this point that Mairead came up with the concept of her new business and decided to launch Transport My Equine. Customers post their transport

requirements on the website (i.e ‘I need to take my horse to Surrey’). Transporters then quote for this job, allowing the client to make a choice of who to use. The unique rating system means only people who have used the transporter can rate them, giving customers peace of mind. Each job is posted and it’s easy to see what competitors have quoted, meaning the customer gets value for money. www.transportmy equine.co.uk

Ellie and Simon will be attending the Lycetts Festival of Hunting at Peterborough on 18th July.

RHEA ASKS...

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...

f you’re sitting on an idea, how do you know when to take it forward? How do you know if you should start your own equestrian business? The great thing is that you don’t need to quit the day job in order to pursue an idea – far from it. There are many small businesses running in our sector that are ‘done’ in evenings, weekends and lunch hours. This allows you to test the theory and actually grow the business to the size where it could support some or part of your income. Yes, having a full time job AND starting a new business is tough, but this method reduces the financial risk, so it’s swings and roundabouts! With no more than a Facebook page, or even taking part in discussions in Facebook groups, you can test your idea. You might be worried about people ‘borrowing’ your idea, and that could well happen, but there will be a point when you’ve done all your preparation, and the next step is to get it out in the open or at least to do further market research around the idea you have had. The feedback gained in this phase can be really useful and help to refine your idea to make it even better… or it might even flag an issue that could have caused you a massive headache further down the line. Running a business is hard work and there’s little downtime. You’ll be taken on a HUGE learning curve but there are plenty of places to support this growth. YouTube and Google will become best friends, and I would also urge you to look for groups on Facebook (like my Small & Supercharged group – shameless plug there!) and in real life that you can become a member of and/or participate in to ask questions and find support in your entrepreneurial journey. You also need to give any new business time. Yes, it is hard work BUT, let’s be honest, what’s worthwhile that’s also easy?

SHOULD YOU START YOUR OWN BUSINESS? Visit www.rheafreemanpr.co.uk • Twitter (@rheafreeman) • Instagram (@rheafreemanpr) • Facebook (/RheaFreemanPR)

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NUTRITION

DIETARY NO-NO’S WHEN FEEDING YOUR

e s r o 9h

Underfeeding Fibre...

Fibre is an important part of a horse’s diet and is mainly supplied by forage such as grass, hay or haylage. Fibre is fermented by the microflora (mainly bacteria) in a horse’s hindgut. Insufficient fibre intake will lead to digestive disturbances and inefficient digestion, with problems such as loose droppings and colic seen as a result. Gastric ulcers, and stereotypical behaviour such as wind-sucking, are also more likely. Most horses should receive a constant supply of fibre. Even when the diet needs to be restricted, horses should stand for no longer than 4 to 6 hours without forage available. Supplied by nutritionists from the TopSpec Multiple Award-WinningHelpline 01845 565030.

Dusty Hay...

Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO) is considered to be the most common respiratory disease in horses today and is caused by an allergy to dust and mould spores commonly found in poorly made and stored forages. It is recognisable by a persistent cough (often at meal times or whilst being exercised) and is sometimes accompanied by a nasal discharge and apparent difficulty in breathing. It can often have implications on the horse’s performance and is a chronic condition meaning there is no complete cure. Affected horses are likely to need specialist management for the rest of their lives. Supplied by HorseHage & Mollichaff www.horsehage.co.uk

Fearing Protein... Protein is one of the most misunderstood nutrients in the horses’ diet. Often thought of as an energy source, protein is commonly blamed for excitable behaviour, but this is a myth. In reality, protein is only used as energy when there is not enough energy in the diet, but protein is nevertheless essential for your horse and this is why... All body tissues are made of protein, along with enzymes, hormones and antibodies. Protein is a major body constituent, present in hooves, skin,

bones, hair, and muscles. If all the fat and water were removed from your horse’s body, 80% of what would be left...is protein! Protein has an important structural role

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Not Enough Clean Water... Horses must have access to clean drinking water at all times, regardless of whether being stabled, turned out, travelling or competing. An average 500kg horse drinks around 30 - 50 litres of water per day, more in hot weather or if working very hard. As grass has a high percentage of water horses turned out may drink little or no additional water, whereas a horse on more dry feedstuffs such as hay will often drink more. The best way to keep your horse hydrated and to encourage drinking is to provide free-choice access to water which often means frequently checking, scrubbing and refilling water troughs and buckets. Supplied by Rowen Barbary Horse Feeds.

Changing Between Feeds Too Quickly... If you find it necessary to change your horses feed type due to condition, performance, season or health problems this must be done gradually to help minimise the risk of digestive upsets. Plan any dietary changes carefully, and gradually change the diet to avoid the risk of conditions such as colic or laminitis, as the digestive system needs time to adapt to changes in order to best utilise nutrients in the feed. Supplied by Rowen Barbary Horse Feeds. www.rowenbarbary.co.uk

within body tissues, keeping them strong and healthy. It is also essential for muscle growth and repair and is involved in virtually all vital body processes, including the transport of oxygen in blood around the body put simply your horse wouldn’t function without it! Protein is made up of chains of amino acids – so your horses’ individual requirement is for them. Ten of these are “essential” amino acids and must be provided through the diet, so it’s important to ensure your horse is receiving enough.

Providing good-quality protein is key for health and condition, as the better the quality the better it is digested. Sources of good quality protein include fresh grass, alongside linseed and soya, which has an excellent amino acid profile, so look for these to ensure your horse gets the best supply. Supplied by Lisa Elliott MSc – Nutritionist at Castle Horse Feeds www.castlehorsefeeds.com

Feeding Too Much Sugar... Sugar is a carbohydrate and is classed as a Non Structural Carbohydrate (NSC). Most of a horses’ intake of NSCs are broken down in the small intestine into glucose. Glucose provides energy and can be used instantly, if it is not immediately required it is converted to glycogen and stored in the liver and muscles, ready to be used when needed. Glucose is essential in the horse’s diet as it is one of the only nutrients that can cross the blood-brain barrier. Glycogen is essential for muscle contraction, digestion, respiration and brain function therefore sugar is an essential nutrient in the horse’s diet. Problems can occur when horses are fed too much sugar in their diet. Most NSCs are broken down into glucose in the small intestine using enzymes, this glucose is then passed into the bloodstream for use of storage. An overload of glucose in the bloodstream impacts on insulin levels, insulin is the hormone responsible for regulating the levels of glucose in the blood. When the glucose levels are too high more insulin is produced which can result in too much insulin, this has been linked as a cause of endocrinopathic laminitis. Due to a number of factors a large number of horses and ponies are insulin resistant and less able to control high glucose levels effectively in the blood stream. If the horse consumes a high level of NSCs not all the sugars can be broken down in the small intestine and will pass into the hindgut along with the bacteria that feed from them. Digestion in the hindgut is microbial and relies on the fibre digesting bacteria which thrive in suitable conditions. When undigested NSCs enter this environment they can ferment which produces lactic acid. This disrupts the sensitive environment and decreases the pH which can kill the fibre-digesting microorganisms and can result in digestive disturbances and create toxins. Supplied by Silvermoor Haylage. www.silvermoor.com

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NUTRITION Insufficient Salt...

Supplied by Baileys Horse Feeds

Not Keeping to a Routine... Horses thrive on routine and are happier knowing when and where their next meal is coming from! Keeping a routine also ensures that your horse can be fed at regular intervals. The digestive system is not designed to be empty for any length of time. If your horse cannot have ‘ad lib’ access to forage maybe because he is a ‘good doer’ then feeding at regular intervals helps to reduce the time the digestive system is empty. The microbial population of the horses gut comprised a balance of various species, each responsible for digesting different feedstuffs. If a sudden change is made to the diet the microbial population can be disrupted and the food not digested efficiently. This can result in metabolic disorders such as laminitis and digestive efficiency can be compromised, leading to colic or diarrhoea. A solid daily routine can also help keep our horses calmer with a sense of security, which for those who are uptight can only be beneficial.

When the horse sweats as the body’s natural reaction to cool itself down, the sweat it produces contains bodily salts and minerals. If these are not replenished sufficiently the horse will become deficient and this can contribute to dehydration, fatigue and a reduction in performance. There can also be serious repercussions of insufficient salt within the diet. This is in the form of metabolic muscular issues such as azoturia (tyingup), recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis (RER) and Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM). All of these conditions involve the correct contraction and relaxation of the muscles which requires correct mineral interaction, including that of sodium (salt). Supplied by Baileys www.baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

Overfeeding... Dr Joe Pagan, President of Kentucky Equine Research, an equine nutrition and consultation company says, “Excessive energy intake through overfeeding, leading to obesity is the number one danger facing most leisure horses.” Monitoring your horses body weight is an effective means of tracking energy balance, but to get a truly accurate representation of energy status you should know his body fat composition. Condition scoring is a practical way to monitor body fat content and it can be quite accurate when done correctly. Learning how to condition score should form the foundation of any equine management programme. Condition scoring is a visual and touch assessment of your horse’s condition to

WIN! COMPETITION

assess the body fat covering points of the horse’s skeleton. Assessing body fat covering can help to tell you whether you are overfeeding or underfeeding your horse in relation to the level of work that you are doing or your horse or ponies individual metabolism. Condition scoring can be graded on a scale of 1-9. The actual process of condition scoring could fill an entire article but as a guide you should be aiming for a condition score of 5-6 for showing. Most good doers on average tend to have a condition score of between 78, which significantly increases the risk of laminitis. Supplied by Lizzie Drury MSc Registered Nutritionist www.saracenhorsefeeds.co.uk

12 X 20KG BAGS OF FIBREBEET TO BE WON!

Fibre-Beet is a formulated blend containing all the benefits of Speedi-Beet with added high quality alfalfa for optimum condition, and quality protein for muscle tone and function. Alfalfa can also help with topline or simply help maintain weight and a healthy, shiny coat. Offering an excellent source of highly digestible fibre in a soaked form, Fibre-Beet is excellent in aiding rapid rehydration and provides slow release energy without the ‘fizz’. It also has a low sugar and starch content making it ideal for horses and ponies prone to laminitis. Fibre-Beet also has added biotin for hoof quality and can be soaked and ready to feed in only 45 minutes in cold water, or just 15 minutes in warm/hot water. www.british horsefeeds. com RRP is around £12.65-£13.60

To enter visit www.absolute horsemagazine.com and click on the competitions page. Entries open 1st July and close 31st July2018.

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NUTRITION

Assurance marks have been awarded! Saracen Horse Feeds are very pleased to announce that two feeds within the product range have been awarded the BETA Assurance Mark for products suitable for horses prone to equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS). The assurance mark has been awarded to the original cereal free mix RE-LEVE, and the recently launched CompetitionFit Balancer. The assurance mark will help owners recognise that both feeds are suitable for horses and ponies prone to equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS). The new feed mark has been developed by The British

Equestrian Trade Association in consultation with the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, and is based on suitability of ingredients, labelling, marketing claims and independent laboratory testing. The two research led feeds have both been formulated to support healthy digestion and gastric health based on the following criteria. RELEVE is the original cereal free, low sugar, low starch mix which is high in fibre and oil. While Competition-Fit Balancer is a nutrient dense, low intake balancer, low in

starch and contains the recommended levels of live yeast and Acid-Buf that has been proven to help maintain an optimum environment in the stomach and digestive tract. www.saracenhorsefeeds.com

WIN ONE OF 3 SETS OF 5KG HORSLYX GARLIC BALANCER AND 5KG HOLDER!

British Horse Feeds have announced that Speedi-Beet and FibreBeet, have been awarded the Gastric Ulcer Feed Assurance Mark. Speedi-Beet becomes the first and only 10 minute quick soaking beet pulp whilst Fibre-Beet is the only soaking mash product to be approved by BETA, making them both suitable for horses and ponies prone to equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS). British Horse Feeds will be re-launching both products with new packaging very soon, brandishing the new feed assurance mark. Said Will I’Anson, Sales Director of British Horse Feeds: “We are delighted that both of our products now hold the Gastric Ulcer Feed Assurance Mark and to be working more closely with our industry’s trade association. Both products lend themselves very well to helping maintain good digestive health.” www.britishhorsefeeds.com

Ambassador News!

International Grand Prix dressage rider Nikki Barker (nee Crisp) has become Brand Ambassador for Formulate! As well as competing at the highest levels, Barker runs Nikki Crisp Dressage Training Camps throughout the year in Newmarket, Suffolk, and clinics around the country. Nikki comments: “Ensuring your horse is getting the right nutrition is vitally important. Feedmark really understands these specific requirements and Formulate! makes it possible to supplement the exact levels your horse requires.” www.feedmark.com

WIN! COMPETITION

Horslyx Garlic Balancer contains pure garlic oil to provide a natural and effective way to help combat biting insects. Independent research conducted at Aberystwyth University has shown that feeding Horslyx Garlic Balancer can significantly reduce the irritation from flies whilst horses are at grass. Horslyx Garlic Balancer contains powerful antioxidants, vitamin E and selenium plus chelated copper and zinc, to support and maintain a healthy immune system, and a high specification vitamin, mineral and trace element package, which is ideal for balancing nutrient deficiencies. www.horslyx.com

Good Luc

Nikki Barker

riding Durabl

To enter visit www.absolute horsemagazine.com and click on the competitions page. Entries open 1st July and close 31st July2018.

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WIN!

ABH JUL18 pages REBUILT.qxp_Ab Horse FEB18 21/06/2018 16:07 Page 34

COMPETITION

PRIZES COURTESY OF A.AKERS LTD, ESSEX AGENT FOR EQUINE AMERICA & KM ELITE PRODUCTS!

This ‘Winner Takes All’ prize bundle includes:

• One-Hour Cross-Country Lesson with Equine America Brand Ambassador Lisa Spence BHSI SM for you and a friend on your own horses at Hammonds Farm XC course near Colchester, Essex, on a date to suit all parties. A regular on the eventing circuit, Lisa has been working in the equine industry for over 25-years. BHSI SM and former Pony Club examiner, she has spent many years backing, competing and working with all types of horses; • 1 x Pair of Front KM Elite Pro Mesh Event Boots worth £60. These boots are breathable, with an integrated layer that offers superior airflow to cool the leg; • 1 x KM Elite Lambswool Half Pad in Natural made from 100% Merino lambswool and 100% cotton quilted fabric. Worth £65; • 1 x 454g (2 months supply) Cortaflex Regular Powder worth £40. Cortaflex solution effectively supports and maintains healthy joints; • 1 x Equine America Stinger Fly Spray An effective spray for the relief of flying and biting insects. Worth £15.

To enter visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the competitions page. Entries open 1st July and close 31st July2018.

Product News... Silvermoor Treatsies are the ideal healthy treat with neighnaughtiness. Available in Tremendous Turmeric and Calming Chamomile they supply low levels of sugar and starch to horses and ponies. RRP: £2.97. www.silvermoor.com

Equerry High Fibre Cubes are designed for horses and ponies at rest or in very light work, when feeding forage alone is not enough to meet your horses’ nutritional needs. They are made from a high fibre formula providing essential vitamins and minerals including magnesium and a source of protein. Can be soaked and are suitable for elderly horses as a hay replacer. www.equerryhorsefeeds.com

Silvermoor Swingers are the only hanging forage block that provide slow released, healthy entertainment in the stable. High fibre, low sugar and zero starch they are forage based and ideal for those on a low sugar diet. RRP £3.97. www.silvermoor.com

New Smart Zero Lite from Castle Horse Feeds is a fibre focused feed with an advanced formulation. Developed by equine nutritionists to contain very low levels of starch and sugar (<7%) and low levels of energy (8MJ/Kg), Smart Zero Lite is ideal for horses and ponies with metabolic conditions, those that are prone to laminitis or those that need a lowcalorie feed for maintenance and light work. Has added fenugreek for a tasty flavour. RRP: £10.99. www.castlehorsefeeds.com

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WIN! WIN! WIN! COMPETITION

WIN THREE BAGS OF MOLLICHAFF HERBAL!

Mollichaff Herbal is a high quality chaff made from top quality oat straw 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. By stimulating the production of saliva and slowing down the passage of food throughout the gut, Mollichaff Herbal can help to promote good digestion. In particular it will satisfy a stabled horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s psychological need to chew, requiring up to 8000 chews per kilo to eat compared to as few as 1200 for concentrates. www.horse hage.co.uk

WE HAVE 3 BAGS EACH TO GIVE AWAY TO 14 LUCKY WINNERS!

Good Luc

To enter visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the competitions page. Entries open 1st July and close 31st July2018.

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BUYER’S GUIDE Customisable Mackenzie & George Classic Keyring. RRP: £25.99 (add £9 for personalisation). www.mackenzieandgeorge.com

Sterling silver torque bangles with a unique equine themed slogan engraved. Can be stacked or worn alone. RRP: £30. www.pegasusjewellery.net

Nova Gold Crossover Ring RRP: £195. www.emily mortimer.co.uk

Acido Gold Cow Hide Belt. RRP: £45. www.hicksandbrown.com

s u o e g Gor ! Gear

The Fonzie Jumper RRP: £90. www.mistamina.com

Tweedmill Pure New Wool Blankets. Choice of 7 colours. RRP: £59. www.ladidaandover.com The Suffolk Fedora in Camel with Pheasant Feather Wrap. RRP: £95. www.hicksand brown.com

The Bucket Bag in Tan. RRP: £395. www.albionengland.co.uk

Limited edition ring combines solid sterling silver with a 9ct solid rose gold snaffle at the front. RRP: £130. www.hiho silver.co.uk

Free standing Champagne Cooler Stand. RRP: £130. www.ladidaandover.com

Classic Country Brogue shoes in Spanish leather with coloured suede panels. RRP: from £195. www.thespanishbootcompany.co.uk Rose Gold Snaffle Bangle. RRP: £60. www.pegasus jewellery.net

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WIN! COMPETITION

The new Beitris Collection. RRP: from £118. www.sylviakerr jewellery.com

Timothy Foxx Tweed clutch bags. RRP: from £45 for mini clutch and £69 for clutch. www.timothyfoxx.co.uk

WE’VE A PAIR OF NAVY AND RED VALVERDE JODPHUR BOOTS UP FOR GRABS! Pineapple Candle Snuffer. RRP: £14. www.ladidaandover.com

Schöffel Country Chelsea Down Gilet RRP: £199.95. www.schoffel .co.uk

Carrie Cap in Tawny. RRP: £79. www.holland cooper.com

The Pimlico RRP: £250. www.fairfax andfavor.com

These beautiful Valverde Jodphur Bespoke Boots from The Spanish Boot Company offer summer style that’s one step ahead... Featuring a full suede upper, these gorgeous boots are leather lined and feature a contrast coloured elasticated section allowing you to slip them on and off with ease. A quality Goodyear welted leather sole completes the overall picture and with so many gorgeous shades to choose from, you will be stuck for choice! RRP: £195. Available in unisex sizing. Sizes: UK 2.5 – 13. Navy with Red insert shown. www.thespanish bootcompany.co.uk

New 100% quality cotton equestrian napkins. Set of four. RRP: £27.99. www.socountry.co.uk

Hyde & Hare new ‘palomino’ colour Foxley Handbags. RRP: from £195. www.hydeand hare.com

Good Luc

Aztec Diamond Equestrian Fitted Technical T-Shirt. RRP: £30. www.aztecdiamondequestrian.com

To enter visit www.absolute horsemagazine.com and click on the competitions page. Entries open 1st July and close 31st July2018.

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BUYER’S GUIDE Flattering quilted jacket with a tailored, feminine fit. RRP: £80. www.blackheart equestrian.com

The NEW Alston Leather Boot RRP: £264. www.grubs boot.com

Bumble Bee Necklace. RRP: £141. www.sylviakerr jewellery.com

The short fit Bradgate Wellington Boot. RRP: £36.99. www.townandco.com

Schöffel Country Women’s Woven Leather Belt RRP: £69.95. www.schoffel.co.uk

Baleno Astrid Bodywarmer RRP: £89.95. Available from all good retailers and www.ardmoor.co.uk

Pheasant Plumage Glass Platter/Cheese Board RRP: £11.99 www.countryside greetings.co.uk

Percy Ivor Dark Blue Maharajahs Hunting Silk Scarf RRP: £95. www.shopfor shooting.co.uk

Equetech Foxbury Tweed Riding Jacket is cut to flatter your silhouette. RRP: £152.50. www.equetech.com

Personalised name, letter and number signs crafted from horseshoes. RRP: £7.50 per letter. Letter can be replaced with a heart for £20. www.horseshoehearts.co.uk The Madison Chocolate Faux Leather Cross Body Bag. RRP: £250. www.fairfaxandfavor.com

Equit’M Short Sleeved Ladies Polo. RRP: £41.90. www.equitheme.co.uk

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Catch up with...

GABY LUCAS A

Photo: Duncan Jobson

nother month has gone by, and I don’t know about you guys, but where is this year going? Can’t believe it is July already! So last month things quietened down a little bit. I have been riding and teaching a lot in the glorious sunshine. After the success of the previous demonstration with Paul Cornish, we held another at Beechwood Equestrian Centre again. These types of demos are great because it really helps riders understand the test scores from a Judge’s point of view. We also included some pole exercises (which are my favourite) to help with striding. A big thank-you to all the riders who participated with their horses and to the viewers who attended - we had a great time. This month Equithème asked if they could have some more photos of us, which meant we had another photo-shoot which is always fun. Zante loves being in front of the camera, and I think if he was a human he would definitely have been a model. We focused on getting some canter pirouette images. Equithème also notified me that they are starting a new children’s range which is very exciting and the clothes are so adorable, perfect for the budding young equestrian! I have also really focused on doing some pole work with Zante as it is a great exercise to focus on keeping the rhythm and encouraging cadence and lift. I also had chance to compete in the Inter 1 at Wix Equestrian Centre. He produced a lovely test and kept his cool. So excited for the next!

Tisserand Aromatherapy has teamed up with Ascot Racecourse for a collection of elegant bath and body products. RRP: from £10. www.tisserand.com

Introducing the Cotswoldsbased luxury clothing and accessories brand, Leger and Oaks. Collection includes wraps, capes, jackets, blazers and accessories. RRP: capes from £135; Tweed jackets from £245; wraps from £39. www.legerandoaks.co.uk

Gaby x

MONTHLY COMPETITION...

Arundell Clutch Bag RRP: from £65. www.hydeandhare.com Paragon Equestrian Full Seat Dot Silicon Leggings RRP: £45. www.paragon equestrian.co.uk

To celebrate the launch of EQUI-KIDS and the TRC 85 collection by Equithème for children, we are giving you the chance to win either an EQUI-KIDS Pony Love T-Shirt for girls or an EQUI-KIDS Pony Rider T-Shirt for boys. Both T-shirts available in children’s sizes from 4-10 years. RRP: £13.90. www.equitheme.co.uk To enter go online visit: www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the competitions page. Entries open 1st July and close 31st July 2018.

*Subject to stock availability

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Ride like... TUTORIAL

JAMES SOMMERVILLE

HOW TO AVOID THE SPLASH! W

IN THIS ISSUE WE TALK TO GRUB’S SPONSORED RIDER, JAMES SOMMERVILLE, WHO HAS BEEN COMPETING IN THE EVENTING WORLD FOR MANY YEARS AND HAS FACED ALL KINDS OF FENCES WITH HIS MAIN RIDE, TALENT. IN THIS ARTICLE HE PROVIDES SOME TOP TIPS ON HOW TO JUMP WATER TRAYS. 40

ater trays for any horse can be quite daunting and approaching incorrectly may cause you to go for an early bath, which is what we want to avoid. If you don’t have the facilities, try hiring them or try using a sheet tarpaulin weighted down by a pole on each side which will easily suffice. Take it slow and steady, as introducing water trays is a big step for any horse in training and the best way to start is by positioning the tray in-between a pair of wings on one of the long sides of the arena, just in from the track, so there is room for the horse to still go round. This initial step allows your horse to see the jump on both reins without getting worried, easing them in slowly and simplifying this tricky stage. It sets the horse up ready for the next phase which will include a pole placed over the top.

When facing with this stage it is best to get a nice steady trot going with a good rhythm wide around the school. Once your horse is happy, turn towards the jump staying in trot, and look straight toward the fence and prepare yourself for the jump. Once cleared, re-join the track and then change the rein and do the same exercise. You may need to repeat this exercise with your horse to allow them time to gain confidence and not be afraid of the question being asked. Once you feel the horse has relaxed and is jumping with ease it is time to progress to the next stage. It’s now time to improve your horse’s footing, both for the take off and the landing. This is so the horse can adapt its stride making it easier for him to jump the water tray. The exercise requires an upright fence slightly in from the track, again on one

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JAMES’ Favourite

Grub’s LEADING EVENT RIDER SEEKS HORSES

of the long sides of the arena, and then the water tray placed in front of the upright fence. This will get your horse thinking as he will need to alter the point of take-off. Starting the upright small is very important as you do not want to overwhelm the horse by asking too many questions. This enables your horse to focus on the water rather than the height of the fence. You want to create a positive experience by keeping it simple rather than asking too many questions and the horse getting frustrated. For the upright exercise, make sure you are on the correct rein so that the tray is in front of the jump when riding this exercise. Pick up the pace to a good canter and then proceed towards the jump. After jumping the jump on this rein a few times, swap to the other rein so the tray is after the jump. This will help in getting the landing correct. Riding on a circle is the next stage in training as it is a great

way to aid your horse in being supple and helping him to stay in balance and it will also get him used to not always jumping in a straight line. Ride a 20m circle in one end of your school and place a small jump on the centre line with the water tray positioned in the centre, just underneath the jump. Approach this exercise in trot by going large around the school to get your horse settled and prepared. Then bring your horse onto the circle, focusing on the jump and then shifting your body weight in the direction you want to go and then jump. Remember to continue on your circle after the jump and then go large and change the rein, repeating the whole exercise on this rein. I keep stressing to change the rein and repeating the exercise, but it is so important to practice on both reins so the horse is schooled equally as this helps to prevent him from becoming stronger on one side and unbalanced.

I have a pair of Grub’s Discover Shoes and I have to say they are the comfiest shoes I have ever worn, and the fact that they are waterproof is even better! So when our dog, Bert, needs a walk my feet stay dry when we go through long grass that is a bit dewy. The Discover Shoe is also made from tough, snagresistant Diamond RipStop nylon outer, making it a strong, versatile piece of footwear - perfect for outdoor terrain and unpredictable weather. Grub’s Discover Shoe is available in Charcoal/Black and Black/Burst in sizes 413 and Fuschia/Mint in sizes 4-8. RRP: £119.95. For further information please contact Grub’s on 01204 567700 or visit www.grubsboot.com

Having produced top class event horses to 4 Star level, leading event rider Kevin McNab is seeking new horses and owners to join the team. Kevin was a very successful event rider in Australia before moving to the UK. He has had many horses listed on Australian Elite Eventing Squads and Australian Nations Cups teams, and since being based in Surrey has had a number of wins across Europe. Kevin now feels the time is right, after establishing himself in the UK with a fantastic base and facilities, to focus on securing top class horses for major championships. His longstanding association with Brookfield Equestrian recently came to an end giving him the opportunity and time to ride a new team of horses at 3 and 4 Star level. Said Kevin: “After five highly successful years, it is time to move on with the aim of developing my Tokyo team.” To discuss opportunities with Kevin please telephone 07507 430612 or visit www.mcnabeventing.com

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Ride like... L TUTORIAL

LISSA GREEN

AS THE DAUGHTER OF 6 TIMES BADMINTON CHAMPION, LUCINDA GREEN, AND OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALLIST, DAVID GREEN, LISSA ORIGINALLY PLANNED TO RIDE HORSES JUST FOR PLEASURE. BUT EVENTING IS CLEARLY IN THE BLOOD, AND ONCE BITTEN BY THE BUG LISSA HAS PROVED TO BE EVERY BIT AS TALENTED AND DETERMINED TO SUCCEED AS HER PARENTS.

issa has carved her own route to the top, and her Badminton ride on Hollyfield this year was incredible. Lissa is a strong believer in doing everything she can to support her horses’ fitness and wellbeing, and is a brand ambassador for Back on Track. Lissa was delighted to talk to us about her Badminton experience. Having recently completed my first Badminton Horse Trials, I am still on cloud nine. You can't beat it, it is pure magic. The emotion running through your veins is a type of adrenalin you can't recreate anywhere else. I couldn't have been more thrilled with my incredible horse. My Badminton ride, Hollyfield (aka Oli, owned by The Viqueen Syndicate and Succeed Equine), is still fairly green and lacking top-

level experience, so I was a bit dubious about bringing him to Badminton and only made my final decision to go about eight days before. This horse has had a turbulent past and we picked him up as a failed Intermediate horse that kept getting eliminated. Slowly over the past 2.5 years we have turned him round, helping him find a better balance and creating a conscience. It’s been a rocky road and at times I wasn’t

Lissa Green at Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials 2018 Photos by Kit Houghton

BADMINTON AND BEYOND...

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sure we’d win. But what an animal he has become and there is no doubt in my mind we have only uncovered half the horse. The dressage is still tough for him and the 4* test is way above his training level just yet, but he is becoming my best friend in that ring and tried enormously hard with minimal mistakes. The Cross Country was unreal. I genuinely was worried he’d struggle after seeing so many come home exhausted and I suddenly lost all my confidence in my fitness programme. To top it off I had to leave the start box in a brand-new bit. I had the option of using a bit I knew would fail at the ninth minute or taking a risk and if it didn’t work, pulling up a re-routing. I had, of course, tried the bit at home, but nothing can quite recreate a real cross country. So, for the first time in my life I set out on a seriously tough course, fully aware that I may have to pull up. I rode each fence individually and suddenly we were at fence 20 and only then did I think “crikey, we might actually make it home!” I slowed him up for each fence, and every time the bit worked I thought each fence could be my last, but it continued to be effective for the full twelve

minutes. Our fitness regime also worked and Hollyfield finished full of running. The vet even made a point of coming to find us to say he was the fittest horse and how impressed he was. I’m so happy as I know I can really go for it on our next shot, something that will make Hollyfield thrilled as all he wanted to do was go faster! The Showjumping is naturally his weak phase, but his strength has really increased recently, and he was desperate to jump a clear round for me. Sadly, I totally underpowered him over the first few fences having an early two rails. I learnt on the job to sort myself out and add power to his canter for the sticky going and he jumped the rest of the round like a King. I’m so gutted because I could’ve ridden like that from the start and I genuinely believe he would’ve gone clear. You live and learn, and I learnt an extremely valuable lesson when at least there was no gold medal at stake. The best thing about this whole event, is that for the level of training my horse has had - he physically couldn’t have done any better. He was faultless, and I genuinely believe he will be even better next year.

Lissa Green uses Back on Track products featuring the unique Welltex fabric to support suppleness and wellbeing of her horses. For more information, visit www.backontrack.com or call 07766 463099 to find your local stockist.

JOIN THE HMB SYNDICATE

The Lake at Badminton historically causes issues – however the way I tackle water depends on the horse. Whether you have a horse shy or over bold, you must adjust your entrance accordingly. In an ideal world I am desperate for my horse to understand his question. You can only do this by giving them time on take-off. I naturally want to slightly decrease my stride on approach to water and try to take off as close to the element as safely possible. This means the horse will be jumping up, slow and round whilst having time to understand his landing and the next obstacle. Water naturally slows your stride down, so if you come in too fast, it's going to be difficult for the horse to stand up. And beware they often go down on the second stride not the first in this case, so always keep your balance and stay behind the horse for longer than expected!

Would you like to be part of a team, supporting talented up and coming event horses? Now is the ideal time to join the ‘Made in Yorkshire’ syndicate, the brain child of event rider and trainer, Harriet Morris-Baumber. If you have always wanted to be involved in the sport of eventing without actually getting into the saddle, the ‘Made in Yorkshire’ syndicate provides a perfect opportunity to be part of the action. The syndicate currently owns two horses, Escofino I, known as Scooby and Whitesapark Caramel, known as Chappy, both now underway in their exciting eventing careers. As a member of the syndicate you will get the chance to see your horses compete at events around the country, where members get well looked after courtesy of Harriet’s parents fantastic picnics! You will experience what it takes to train a horse to the top level, going behind the scenes at training sessions with some of the country’s top coaches such a Christopher Bartle. To find out more call 07795 562745 or visit www.harrietmorris-baumber.co.uk

Whitesapark Caramel and Harriet

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TUTORIAL

old medal winning event rider Nicola Wilson aims to help riders of all levels tackle walking a cross country course and offers advice on how to ride a course. Nicola highlights fences that she thinks would be rider frighteners and those that are technically difficult to ride, then describes how she would tackle them.

Walking the course Explains Nicola: “At the major events I tend to walk a cross country course three to four times, before I ride it. This allows me to understand the course, walk the lines and set all the minute markers. My tip when walking the course is to always look back at each fence to find the right lines to get to it. “Recently I have started to use a cross country app, instead of using a measuring wheel. You can select your event and it will create a course map, you can then add the jumps and it will automatically set minute markers. It’s a great tool. “Throughout the course I look

for a point around four to five strides before the jump, to prepare for the fence and focus the horse, moving it up or down the gears as required. “The horse needs to read the question, then say okay before the rider can push on. A half halt can engage the horse, but make sure you don’t do it too soon as it may not work and slow the horse down too much, losing the effectiveness of the half halt and the canter will become flat. The canter must always be in front of your leg. “The type of half halt will depend on the fence and the reaction you need. It can be purely a slight half halt to rebalance for a table, parallel or individual fence or a bigger half

n o s l i W a l o c i N PREPARING TO RIDE

CROSS COUNTRY

halt on the way to a coffin. “Whilst jumping a fence, select a point to ride to with your eyes, this may be another element and will help to keep the horse concentrating. The horse can sense your next move; it is such a magical partnership. “It is vital to know your lines on a cross country course so you can direct your horse. Dressage schooling plays a very important part, as your horse often needs to be straight like they are going down the centre line or perhaps ride a figure of eight to get to another element. “Always right positively in the correct canter or pace for the type of dance you are tackling, keep the horse upright and

motivated and keep your hands low so the horse can see what they are doing. The horse’s neck is its fifth leg, so make sure it can use it. “A horse’s canter must have impulsion, with a forward going rhythm, this enables plenty of choice if you need to adapt by adding or taking away a stride to get you out of a difficult situation. When you walk the course you must know all the possible options available so you can react quickly. “As a rider you should react to the way a horse is feeling underneath you. You must give your horse confidence in correct, balanced riding and getting your horse to the fence in the correct canter.

HERE WE TALK TO SUREGROW SPONSORED EVENT RIDER NICOLA WILSON, WHO PROVIDES ADVICE ON HOW TO WALK A CROSS COUNTRY COURSE AND HAS SOME INSIDER TIPS ON WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY.

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“The water jump needs the correct canter as if you have too much speed the horses can jump in too big and tip us forward which can lead to an unnecessary tumble. However too slow or underpowered in the canter could lead to a refusal or an awkward jump again tipping us forward. I use visualisation to help get the correct feel and canter to jump the more difficult Tackling fences fences. “All fences should be tackled “Upon landing after a difficult slightly differently, to achieve a fence or combination a pat and clear and safe round. With any jump if you lift the horse’s head ‘well done’ can boost moral allround. I am an advocate of they can’t see, so let them see rewarding my horses who are the jump before you ask the trying hard to please. We are a next question. “If you are jumping a fence that team, working together. “If part of an element is at the is on a slope downhill or has a top of a slope, a horse may lack drop after it, we need to land energy, try to always keep balanced in our stirrups, most momentum. Your horse should likely slip the reins as the feel like a plane taking off uphill distance from our upper body and not nose diving. and the horse’s neck will increase. This will in turn lighten “Narrow arrowheads can catch the horses front end and put our riders out. Stay straight, with weight on the horse’s hind legs, your hands down and don’t lean forward, always look between sit up and further back than normal, focusing on your centre the flags. “Fear the first and last jump as of balance, moving away from much as any, concentrate and the horses neck. keep your contact, so the horse “Keep the rhythm and balance, does a good job and does not slightly slip the reins, always keep your leg on and turn up the make a silly mistake. “Practice makes perfect, you intensity of the use of the leg if the situation needs you to. Be a don’t need to train over big fences but build your horse and reactive rider and feel what’s your own confidence by training going on underneath you and over the different style of fences always look at the next fence, keeping your eyes up at all times that you are to meet at the competition. Confidence is key.” especially at ditches. Suregrow products include “A coffin canter is the shortest Suregrow Fertiliser, CSM, and most powerful canter but Paddock Grass Seed Mix, Fast it’s imperative that our body Grass, Meadow and Laminitics position is correct and in an Grass Mix. upright position with soft low www.suregrowuk.com hands and eyes up.

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TUTORIAL

IN THIS ISSUE HARRIET MORRIS-BAUMBER TAKES A LOOK AT WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN FINDING A TRAINER AND WHAT TO LOOK FOR TO GET THE BEST POSSIBLE OUTCOME TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN

A TRAINER

re you looking for a trainer to get your horse into shape, or someone to give you a few riding lessons to up your game? If so, do you know what to look for in a trainer? Yorkshire-based trainer, Harriet Morris-Baumber of HMB Equestrian, explains what to consider when finding a trainer and how to get the best possible outcome to suit your individual needs. When choosing a trainer first of all you should define your training goals. Examples of common training goals could be that you are looking for a trainer

to simply give your horse a kickstart after a long break, or perhaps, more specifically, you’re looking to start a young horse under saddle or gain the confidence to make that step up to compete. Whatever your goal, write it down, as this will help you to target your search for the right trainer. It will also help the trainer gain a better understanding of what they will be doing and to see if your goals are realistic. You can also use the list of goals to question the trainer’s experience on these topics, further helping you to find the right person.

With regard to location, keep in mind that the best trainer for your requirements may not be the one closest to you. But you do not want a trainer so far away that you cannot travel there often enough to accomplish your goals, so find the right balance to suit you and your horse. Harriet explained the power of word of mouth saying: “It is a great way of finding a trainer and often the most reliant and truthful. Ask around and see what people have to say as your ideal trainer might be right under your nose. This way will also ensure you get a

When training clients, Harriet gets to know both horse and rider to gain an understanding of how they both work

trustworthy reference”. Always go and visit any potential trainer’s yard and, upon visiting, observe the staff and horses in their care to see if you’d be happy leaving your horse there. Make sure the yard and stables are clean, airy and well looked after. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and have a good look around all the facilities making sure they can accommodate your requirements to achieve your goals. Harriet said: “Here at Granary Hall we are lucky to not only have some fantastic schooling facilities, but we also have some

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in b o R y e l m a r B in l o C

BRITISH PALOMINO SOCIETY CHAIRMAN AND LONG STANDING JUDGE

o you love showing and have a Palomino horse or pony? Ever wanted to know what Judges look for when you are in the ring? Here we talk to BPS Chairman and Judge Colin Bramley-Robins on what he looks for in the showing world. How long have you been a Judge and what made you want to become a Judge? I have judged for around 30 years up to county level. I became a Judge as a way of giving back the enjoyment which I have had the privilege of experiencing by showing my ponies for many years. I find it very rewarding encouraging people to show their animals. Are you a breeder or have your bred Palominos in the past? I have bred Shetlands, PBA and pure bred Arabs for many years. I had a chestnut pure bred and a Palomino PBA standing at stud as well as different Shetland stallions over the years. What is it about the Palomino and Cream Dilute gene that fascinates you? I’ve always been attracted to Palominos. You can’t get anything as beautiful on a horse as the sheen they have in the sunlight on their summer coat. So, when in the ring what is the first thing you look for when judging the classes?

Photo: EmmPix Photography

great bridle paths in the surrounding area. There are a lot of benefits for getting out of the school as it stimulates your horse mentally and also gets him working on different surfaces which is beneficial for all horses”. If your goal is to find a trainer who will coach you and your horse, be sure to closely evaluate the trainer’s personal style in light of your preferences. For example if you are someone that works best from a lot of feedback, you may want to look for an outgoing and talkative trainer. If you are timid you may work best with a calm, encouraging and approachable trainer. However, if you are someone who requires a lot of motivation, you may prefer a trainer with a strong presence. Ask if you can watch your potential trainer in action, observing their way of training and personality when in action. Talk to your potential trainer about their background and previous experience as having a good chat with them will help you gain a better understanding of their personality and ultimately help you decide if you could work together. Remember that the trainer must suit you and your horse. Harriet spends time getting to know both rider and horse, gaining an understanding of how both work. Due to her vast experience she can tailor the way she trains clients to suit their individual needs and personalities. Harriet is available for lessons at her base near York. www.harriet-morrisbaumber.co.uk

When judging I look for quality and substance. Confirmation has to be good as well. Horses and ponies must cover the ground correctly, a lot of this is down to the handler/rider on the way they show their animals.

What can riders or handlers do to stand out? All riders and handlers need to be clean and smartly dressed. Handlers need to wear safe and sensible footwear so you can run your animal out. There is nothing worse than a beautifully turned out horse and a scruffy handler/rider. What are your pet hates? One of my pet hates is competitors that walk out of the ring if they don't get placed in the line-up. It is just very bad sportsmanship. Will you be judging at The BPS National Championships in July? I will be judging at the nationals this year. I am looking forward to seeing new and long committed members showing their animals.

Why do you think owners should join The British Palomino Society? We are a very friendly Society. We’ve been running for many years and are very committed to helping people with their Palominos and cream dilutes. www.thebritishpalomino society.co.uk

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ON THE MARKET

Moat Farm

Willingham St Mary, Near Beccles - Guide Price £875,000

WE SPOKE WITH EMILY COOPER- READE OF ECR PROPERTIES TO FIND OUT MORE...

his is a superb farmhouse with no close neighbours, excellent equestrian facilities

and extensive traditional outbuildings set in around 3.2 acres(stms). “The Victorian 4 bedroom

farmhouse is well presented and has flexible accommodation. There are an impressive range of traditional outbuildings including a brick barn. Moat Farm is a superb family home but would also be suitable for other uses, and is not far from the Heritage Coast (Southwold 8 miles) so has great potential for holiday lets (subject to planning) or bed and breakfast. There is direct access from the property to miles of off-road

permit outriding on the Sotterley Estate. “Equestrian facilities include three indoor stables, a 40m x 20m sand and rubber manège, and the ‘height of luxury’ – a covered horse walker! “There is also a studio room, 5-bay cart lodge, lawned gardens and terrace.” Visit www.ecrproperties.com

MIN. DEL. JUST 25 BALES THROUGHOUT EAST ANGLIA

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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.

The May Bank Holiday saw us all off to the BRC Area 8 SJ Qualifiers at the lovely showground belonging to the Tendring Riding Club. I love this showground, one of the few that still run on grass. I took three horses to compete on behalf of Saffron Walden Riding Club, one for the 90cm team, Eyebrook Cosmos, who had a disappointing pole in the second round; one for the 100cm team, Temple Rexton who helped the team win and qualify for the National Championships in Lincoln in

September. This horse is a hunting livery that is owned by Mr Rea and after my win on him with a chance ride at Poplar BE 80cm in March, he has kindly given the ride to me for the summer. The third horse on the lorry was the lovely Fidget there to jump the 1.10cm teams. As always she delivered two good rounds to secure a team win. The weekend of the 12th-13th May we had the pleasure of Anand Patel and Imogen Murray at Hemps Green to deliver a weekend clinic of dressage, SJ and XC. To have Imogen visit us after her amazing results at Badminton was really fantastic, it was great chatting to her about her Badminton horse and even better that she was able to share tips with us. Anand kept us busy in the dressage arena and seems to be able to encourage a good tune from the horses on the flat, his humour and style was popular with many.

Friday 18th May was the day I went to the World Horse Welfare in Norfolk to take my BHS Stable Managers exam. It has been 25-years since I last took a BHS exam, as I got rather tied up with competing and running a business. The new changes in the BHS exam system mean I will be required to have my BHSI in order to sign off stage 4 and teach intermediate candidates, and as I train quite a few it gave me the kick up my backside needed to enter the exam. On return from the exam I pretty much turned straight round to go to Keysoe for the Horse and Hound Grassroots Three Day Event Championship. Thankfully I was riding for one of my lovely owners Mrs Kerry Lockwood, she owns the giant known as Eyebrook Cosmos. I had a good position overnight sitting in fourth on a 30 dressage the leader only on 29. A rather too good XC round saw me come home clear 26 seconds inside the time, although delighted

with the way the horse ran, the time penalties were expensive and I am still kicking myself for this rather expensive rookie error! Kerry’s son Jacob trotted her cob up for the 80cm section and won the best dressed prize.

Eyebrook Cosmos at the Horse and Hound Grassroots Championships Dressage

Photos: Nicky McAllister

honestly don’t think I have ever known a season with so many abandoned events since the dreadful year of foot and mouth. The run at Aston-le-Walls in April was still surprisingly soft and Nigel Taylor did a credible job of maintaining the ground to give us a much needed run.

Boxer and Jacob Lockwood

SPONSOR’S SLOT... The improvement in all these horses has been thanks to my sponsor Equine America and KM Elite. Fidget runs on Cortaflex and both Blue and Temple Rexton use the ULS Gard. Those who know these two will know how much better they are maintaining their condition since I have been using this product. www.equine-america.co.uk www.facebook.com/Equine America & KM Elite Products Essex - A.Akers Ltd

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REPORTS

Saracen Horse Feeds Houghton International Incorporating FEI Eventing Nations Cup

ix nations contested the British leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup, and while the home side took a narrow early advantage, leading after both the dressage and showjumping phases, cross country day proved its downfall. Germany’s dominance at Houghton continues and she took the FEI Eventing Nations Cup leg for the fourth successive year. The American team was flawless across country, moving up to second. Chef d’Equipe and coach for the US emerging athletes programmes – as well as being Britain’s most recent eventing Olympic gold medal winner - Leslie Law, is a keen supporter of the Nations Cup series. “For us, getting our young riders international team

and second places. Thomas Carlile’s (FRA) stallion Upsilon lead throughout, while Piggy French moved up one place when Brook Staples’s (AUS) Doonaveeragh O Six was eliminated on the cross country course.

CCI1* Dirk Schrade (GER) was another experience is vital. Looking rider to lead from pillar to post, forwards we want to use the this time in the ‘one-star’ Nations Cup series more and competition. Dajara 4 was more,” Leslie explained. awarded the only sub-25 score Ireland held on to third place Bubby Upton-Cannavaro in the dressage phase, to which with New Zealand fourth, she added nothing. Sweden fifth and Great Britain dominated the dressage phase sixth. and remained in the lead ahead Jesse Campbell (NZL) also held his position to finish runner up At the start of the day Britain’s of cross country with Billy Holly Woodhead lay third Beware, she kept her foot off the on board Diachello II. individually but Parkfield accelerator, with time penalties Piggy French added nothing to Highdown March’s dressage Quintessential refused to jump dropping the pair to eighth score to complete the podium the Newmarket Equine Hospital place. This opened the way for lineup. Corners at fence eight. Holly’s Laura Collett and Mr Bass to teammate Matthew Heath had take the class with their dressage NAF British Eventing under already picked up 20 penalties at score finish. Laura also finished 21 National Championships the same fence. The third rider sixth on Dacapo and seventh on Despite holding the 1-2 after out for Britain, Katie Bleloch was Billy Bounce. Jesse Campbell and both dressage and cross country unseated from Bulano at the phases Bubby Upton didn’t have Amsterdam II took the runner Devoucoux Open Ditch, fence a rail in hand going in to up spot, ahead of Franky Reid17. Chuffy Clarke restored some Warrilow riding Dolley Whisper. showjump Cola III after Yasmin moral with a good clear round Ingham and Rehy DJ had left all CCI2* on Second Supreme. the poles in their cups. Upton The ‘two star’ competition was had already had a rail down on CIC3* incredibly closely fought, with her European Champion Eros Whilst Pippa Funnell had 0.2 of a penalty separating first

Jonathan Egmore Wins KBIS Insurance Senior British Novice Second Round

Watched by an eager crowd at Houghton International Horse Trials, Jonathan Egmore jumped in to first place in the KBIS Insurance Senior British Novice Second Round hosted by the Norfolk Showjumping Club. A keen field of horses and riders set out with the aim of securing a place in the KBIS Insurance Senior British Novice Championship Final which is to be held at the British Showjumping National Championships in August. With a treble clear in their sights, ten combinations went through to the final jump off and it was up to the all-important clock to decide the winner. Local rider Jonathan from Diss, rode Nicola Witney’s 6-year-old dapple grey mare, Cambola Des Fontaines straight into first place. Proving to be a consistent pairing for a place in the jump off, this combination picked up the pace to deliver another clean round to take the win in 41.20 seconds.

Jonathan Egmore and Cambola Des Fontaines

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Photo: Bothsides Art & Photography

DHI, and when Cola lowered part of the treble the under 21 British National Championship title slipped through her fingers. A stunned Yasmin admitted, “It never entered my thoughts that we might win! Rehy DJ is the horse that everyone wants, he’s unbelievable.” Upton dropped to second place, 0.1 of a penalty ahead of last year’s winner Felicity Collins.

Following on from a very successful tour in Vilamoura, Adele Rand and Calypso Blue have continued in great form, taking the Newcomers Leading Rider title recently at Houghton International. Adele Jumped a hat trick of double clears over the three days of the show, taking second on Friday followed by a win on both Saturday and Sunday. Adele, who won the Junior Newcomers title two years ago on ponies, was delighted to be able to claim the senior title on her home produced horse Calypso Blue.

High Praise From Riders For Stratford Hills Efforts

Caroline Powell

Photos: Richard Weller-Poley

n its sixteenth running Stratford Hills Horse Trials received an abundance of praise from competitors for extensive work on the ground conditions and course presentation. Organiser Gillie Cranfield said, “I’m extremely grateful for all the hard work put in by landowners and course builders as well as all the officials and volunteers without whom events like this could not happen”. Over seeding earlier in the year by the land owners, changes to the route of the courses to preserve the going, extensive watering and repeated aerovating by David Carpenter’s team resulted in some of the best going at the event despite the prolonged hot and dry weather. “We were really pleased with the course and the going. The land owners had already done a large amount of work to help improve the going with further over seeding and ground work planned for this Autumn ahead of the 2019 event. The general feedback from competitors seems positive, which is a good reflection of the effort the team have put in,” confirmed course builder David Carpenter. Horse of the Year Show winner Polly Eddis, who placed fourth in the BE100 with Cashelbay JJ was quick to offer her praise for the event: “What a fabulous event; the ground was really

good, having a mainly very good grass cover and having been watered and aerovated, including the showjumping and dressage areas. Best of all, a great atmosphere, super stewards from the lovely man in the car park to the fence Judges and to the ladies giving out the numbers. Just a really super event which deserves to be over subscribed.” The Novice sections were dominated by Tom Jackson, who produced a 1, 2 finish with No Limit II and Forrest Gump 124 finishing on 24.3 and 28.7 respectively. The young rider also took the Open Novice with Fire Fly on 30.8. It was Izzy Taylor though, who currently ranks seventh in the world FEI rankings, who had a busy morning in Saturday’s BE100 classes, with 5 rides completing. As one of Britain’s leading lady riders, the back to back 3* winner from Bramham and Tattersalls provided spectators and competitors alike a masterclass in riding 5 horses to their times and all bar one within the cross-country time. Star Commander II was the only one not to complete inside the time, coming home 1 second over, giving a good indication of the quality of the going. Local New Zealand international rider Caroline Powell was another to have a successful weekend with a small string of young horses, with Shore To Shore finishing fourth on their 28.5 dressage in Saturday’s

Izzy Taylor

highly competitive BE100 Open. “It was a great trip to Stratford Hills. I rode three beautifully presented courses and it was clear that a lot of extra effort had gone into making the ground as good as it was. I was more than happy to run my young horses,” said Caroline. The BE100 Open was won by local grassroots star Joanne Watts with Darc Legend, with whom she recently finished eighth in the Mitsubishi Motors Cup BE90 Championship at Badminton Horse Trials in May. “I wasn’t expecting it at all (the win) as I thought the company in the section looked rather tough. He went really well in all phases. Stratford Hills is such a friendly and well run event and I thought they had made a lot of effort with the ground and the grass cover was great,” said Joanne.

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REPORTS

Photo: Spidge Event Photography

Suffolk’s Sam Ward Wins HOYS Qualifier

he South of England Show played host to a British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet HOYS Grade C Qualifier and with a huge seventy starters, there was plenty of action for the spectators. Keeping his cool, Sam Ward rode a convincing double clear to take top spot. With three qualification places available for the British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet HOYS Grade C Championship Final at Horse of the Year Show, each combination came forward with the aim of securing a place at the top of the leader board with a double clear. As twenty-four riders jumped clear in round one, it was left up to the all-important clock to decide the winner as they headed into the final jump off. Traveling from Suffolk, Sam Ward showed a great partnership with Troy III, a 9-year-old bay gelding owned by Michael Bates to secure first place. Posting a clear in the first round, this combination stormed the jump off with a lighting fast round to cross the finish line in 39.93 seconds with a double clear. Members of Littleport and District Pony Club, Imogen Trump, Abby Cowlan, Rebecca Everitt and Nicola Talyor all took part in the Pony Club Talent Pathway Regional Dressage Assessment Day which was held at Beechwood Equestrian Centre in Chelmsford recently.

British Riding Clubs Fibre-Beet Festival of the Horse Championships 2018 The BRC Fibre-Beet Festival of the Horse Championships 2018 took place recently at Aston-leWalls Equestrian Centre. Fibre-Beet is a new sponsor for this event and Hatti I’Anson from British Horse Feeds (producers of Fibre-Beet) was on hand each day, offering advice and information on their range of horse feeds and supplements, and to present prizes, rosettes and sashes to all the winners. Hatti said: “We were delighted to support the Fibre-Beet Festival of the Horse Championships. It was a fantastic weekend with top competition, horses that looked fit and well and competitors that were having great fun and wanting to learn more about Fibre-Beet and Speedi-Beet.” Over 600 competitors travelled the length and breadth of the UK to take part in a range of championship classes. Aston-le-Walls was bathed in glorious sunshine all weekend,

Imogen Trump was selected for a weekend-long National Camp where six riders will then be selected to form The Pony Club Talent Pathway Squad. Littleport Pony Club’s senior instructor Eleanor Cole said, “How fantastic that from our small Club we were able to have so many riders attend the assessment day, I couldn’t be more proud of all of our girls and their ponies. I have known and trained all of them for many years and watching their enthusiasm and determination is testament to their success.”

Oliver Kidner riding Freddy

spectators and competitors alike were treated to some truly exciting Challenge championship rounds. The winning teams and individuals came from across the whole of the UK. However two separate junior teams from Area 14 (Eastern Counties) lifted both the Challenge 100 and Challenge 90 Championship classes; Oliver Kidner riding first Freddy in the Challenge 100, then French Fort Daisy in the Challenge 90, featured strongly in both teams. Said Oliver: “Both ponies were fast today, I can’t believe that both our Area 14 teams have won!” Said Rachael Hollely-Thompson, BRC Manager: “A wonderful weekend, with some exciting Challenge rounds to watch, contrasted by the tranquility of the dressage and showjumping arenas. A huge thank you to over 200 volunteers who gave up their time.”

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Ipswich Rider Wins SEIB Search For A Star

Photo: SMR Photos

Suffolk up to the Osbaldeston qualifier a few weeks ago and their second long drive in a few weeks down to Somerset paid off. “I am almost in shock that we have done it,” said a thrilled Sarah. “We went to Osbaldeston and the Judges gave me some great advice, which has been followed and now we have gone and done it! “When I was young I had a dream that I would one day compete at HOYS and I had assumed that it would never happen, but now I am 45 and it has finally become a reality. It has been a huge learning curve.” Sarah has owned 7-year-old Humphrey for just three months and this was only Humphrey’s third ever show. Sarah continued: “I work full-time as a Sales and Marketing manager in the medical industry. The SEIB competition provides such an n amateur rider from the Search for a Star series over amazing opportunity for people Ipswich, Sarah Field, 20 years ago to give amateur like me with full-time jobs that riders and their horses the has qualified for the prestigious Horse of the Year chance to compete at HOYS. The also dream of having a go at HOYS.” Show (HOYS). series has led to many thrilled Cob class ride Judge, David Sarah rode her horse, Deards competitors achieving this Bartram said: “The Cob qualifier Gold N Silver to a win in the Cob dream. today was a true amateur class. class at the SEIB Search for a Star Sarah Field and Deards Gold N We had all shapes and sizes and qualifier at Stretcholt Equestrian Silver (Humphrey) were our nice coloured winner was Centre in Somerset in May to contesting their second Search for a Star Qualifier of the season. very mannerly and gave me a qualify for HOYS. great ride.” The pair made the trip from SEIB Insurance Brokers set up

Each SEIB Search for a Star qualifier holds classes for Working Ponies and Horses, Riding Horse Hacks, Show Hunters and Cobs. Competitors have the chance to qualify for HOYS in each of these classes. SEIB Search for a Star is professionally run with strict entry criteria. At each of the SEIB Search for a Star qualifiers there will also be a HOYS qualifier for the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse Show Championships. SEIB set up this Championship to support and encourage the re-education and training of ex-racehorses and help them on their way to a new career in the show ring. SEIB Marketing Manager Nicolina Mackenzie said: “We always enjoy coming to Stretcholt, everyone is very well looked after. We saw some lovely horses and ponies today across the classes and we are so pleased to be able to give our very well deserving qualifiers the chance to compete in the Search for a Star final which is now in its 20th year at HOYS.” www.search4astar.org.uk www.racehorse2ridinghorse.co.uk www.facebook.com/SEIB.Search 4AStar

Photo: LRG Photography

Essex’s Lauren Ross Heads Second Round

Lauren Ross proved to be on winning form at Petley Wood Equestrian Centre recently when she headed the Nupafeed Supplements Senior Discovery Second Round. Following the first two rounds, fifteen combinations were able to access the final off and nine went on to deliver that all-important third clear round. Lauren Ross from Hornchurch produced the fastest of these treble clears on board her own 5-year-old bay mare Irena G. The pair set a great pace in the jump off and jumped clear in 38.13 seconds.

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Robyn Woodward Claims Top Spot

very of the seventy-one riders was determined to secure the one of the two coveted Horse of the Year Show tickets on offer for this October’s Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Championship Final and after two competitive rounds, a nail biting eight horse jump off unfolded at The College Equestrian Centre. Fifteen-year-old Courtney Young from Basildon, Essex tackled the newly shortened course in fine style on board Marie Clark’s 6-year-old bay gelding Neil 55. This pair were not fazed by the task ahead as they flew to the top of the leader board with a speedy clear in 40.79 seconds. The riders and ponies that finished in third to fifth took home the chance to compete in the Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Masters at the British Showjumping National Championships.

resh from representing Great Britain in the Pony Nations Cup in Wierden, Claudia Moore rode straight in to first place in The Stable Company HOYS 138cm Qualifier held at The College Equestrian Centre, Keysoe in Bedford recently. The class started with thirty-five determined riders looking to secure their place in The Stable Company HOYS 138cms Championship Final at Horse of the Year Show and after two challenging rounds of showjumping, just three combinations were left to go head to head in the final jump off. Delivering three consistent clear rounds, Claudia rode in to first place on board Katrina Moore’s 17-year-old bay gelding Tullineaskey Fear Deas. The pressure was high going in to the three horse jump off but Claudia held her nerve to ride a superb round in just 37.67 seconds for the only treble clear of the class.

Photo: Spidge Photography.

Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Second Round

orty-six competitors tackled the Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Second Round at Pyecombe Horse Show in West Sussex recently and it was Robyn Woodward who emerged victorious. Every rider was aiming to secure one of the two coveted Horse of the Year Show tickets on offer for this October’s Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Championship Final and after two competitive rounds, an eighteen horse jump off unfolded. Sixteen-year-old Robyn Woodward made her journey from Colchester, Essex worthwhile when she claimed the top spot with Rudgeway Maestro, a 12-year-old grey gelding owned by Robert Woodward. Continuing their form from the first two rounds, Robyn and her ride went on to deliver another accurate round to finish with a treble clear in 31.95 seconds.

Claudia Moore Strikes Again!

Photo: www.hoofprintsphotos.co.uk

REPORTS

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s the first of our Youth Teams to take to the arena in The Netherlands at Wierden, the Pony team riding under the sponsorship banner of Team LeMieux put in a strong performance to finish in second place. Tackling the course with determination, they secured their place on the podium by finishing on just 3 penalties behind Ireland who took the win on a 1 time penalty. The Netherlands claimed third place with 4 penalties. Pathfinder Shaunie Greig, aged 15, from Fife delivered a strong opening round with Casino Royale. This pair fell short of the tight time to come home with 1 time penalty. Building on their performance in the first round, Shaunie picked up the pace to

Team LeMieux Ponies Take Second Place deliver the team a foot perfect clear in the second round. Perdita Digby, aged 15, from Dorset was next in for Team LeMieux on board Kayleighâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Star. This combination delivered a stylish clear in the first round

Claudia Moore Tops Table

L-R Nicole Lockhead Anderson, Claudia Moore, Tahnia Jordan Jones and Shaunie Greig Photo: Fotoagentur-Dill

he Union Flag was aloft in Lamprechtshausen, Austria recently when the Team LeMieux Ponies won their respective Nations Cup in convincing style. In the Austrian sunshine at the Sportridingclub Lamprechtshausen, the British

riders and ponies bagged five clears across their eight rounds to take the win on a total of 4 penalties. Shaunie Greig, aged 15, from Fife delivered the perfect start with Casino Royale. As the first in for the Brits, Shaunie would have given the other riders great

Photo: FotoTrailer

but had a pole down in round two. GBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third team rider was 13year-old Claudia Moore from Brentwood, Essex on Elando Van De Roshoeve, a 14-year-old bay gelding owned by Katrina

Moore. Claudia proved to be on fine form as she rode two superb clear rounds for the team. Last in was Faye Sutton, aged 16, from Shropshire with Robe Ruadh. Faye finished with 4 penalties in each round.

confidence as she rode her two rounds with fluency and precision and in doing so, put a double clear performance onto the board. Following Shaunie was 15 yearold Tahnia Jordan Jones from Wiltshire with Jumper. Tahnia and the aptly named Jumper also posted a superb double clear and tackled the course in style. The third rider in Great Britain was Claudia Moore on Elando Van De Roshoeve. Claudia finished with 4 penalties in round one and 10 penalties in round two. Last in was Nicole Lockhead Anderson, aged 16, from Aberdeenshire with the 9-yearold bay gelding Gangnam Style II. This combination picked up 4 penalties in their first round but

set off into their second round determined to secure a clear and they did just that to ensure a win for GB. The British pony riders continued to do their country proud on the Monday when taking the top two podium places in the Lamprechtshausen Grand Prix. Shaunie Greig fought off the challenge from twenty-four other competitors to take first place on Casino Royale. Shaunie piloted her mount to a double clear and she achieved this once again, doing so in 37.86 seconds. Claudia Moore went on to take second on Elando Van De Roshoeve.

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Chance Entry Produces Big Win At Little Downham REPORTS

Photo: Lorraine Porter

nasty fall at Rockingham International, Imogen produced a flawless Gemma round across the Tattersall challenging and Chillis Intermediate course to Gem finish on the optimum time. “It was the perfect confidence giving round,” confirmed Imogen. “Other riders had said that they thought making the time would be near on impossible as it is quite a twisty track but it rode really well, the ground was perfect and Jess just made it feel really easy.” The organising team at Little Downham have been overwhelmed with emails and social media posts congratulating them on the courses, the overall look of the event and the organisation. New Zealand international Caroline

Photo: Lorraine Porter

Having the Lycetts Leap free hospitality area out on course really added a big event feel the what is one of the smallest venues. Despite being a long and hot day on Friday we had some fabulous sport provided by a number of the world’s best event riders,” added Little Downham’s Sarah Skillin. The now world number 2, Gemma Tattersall, had a busy weekend with 7 horses competing. Producing the fastest round across the Intermediate classes, Gemma and Billy Senora produced a convincing win in the Childeric Saddles Open Intermediate. One of only two combinations to finish on their dressage score, out of 120 starters, the pair produced the fastest Intermediate round of the day. Paul Sims took second place with Last Secret 0.3 penalties ahead of Imogen Murry and Tomgar Jess in third place. Returning to competition after a

Powell took to Facebook saying, “I love the new jumps and I’ve never see the place look so well”. With Friday’s competition not finishing until 8.30pm following a lengthy hold on course the organising team would like to extend their thanks to all of the volunteers who stayed the course and all of the competitors for their cooperation and understanding. Little Downham 2 returns on the 21st-22nd July with classes from BE80(T) to Novice level.

Willa Newton and Chance Remark

Photo: Julian Portch

nother spectacular three days of competition at Little Downham Horse Trials in Cambridgeshire produces a timely and well deserved win for Willa Newton and Chance Remark. A last minute entry proved a lucky one to lead from the start with a 29.1 dressage. The combination put a difficult Houghton CIC3* performance behind them to produce a double jumping clear. On a course notorious for being difficult to achieve the optimum time, on the twisty track designed by Jonathan Clissold, Willa added just 6 time faults to their two-phase score to produce a convincing win. “It’s my first trip here and it was brilliant,” confirmed Willa following her Ames Nissan Advanced win. “The course was great, there was lots to do and the ground was fantastic. We’re off to Luhmuhlen CCI**** next so it was a great last run for him.” Little Downham regular Louise Harwood made the long journey from their Welsh base to take second and fifth place with Jenga II and Mr Potts respectively. Alex Kennedy took third with Lissangle Cavaletto B in her first Advanced. “It was great to see such a wellsupported Advanced class. The feedback has been outstanding and it was a joy to watch.

Imogen Murray and Tomgar Jess

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Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show

reat Britain's top-ranked female rider Laura Renwick launched Ladies’ Day at the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show with a victory in the opening four-star class. Locally-based Laura proved unstoppable in the 1.35-metre twophase competition, sponsored by Watson Plant Hire. Riding 13-year-old mare VDL Groep Alitta, she made light work of having an early draw to post a time of 35.67 seconds, and no other combination seriously threatened her. Ireland's Anthony Condon, winner of the Bolesworth grand prix last year, finished second on Dublin V, with Holly Smith and Fruselli in third. Reflecting on a great start to the weekend, Laura said: “She jumped well on Friday and had an unlucky four faults. She is a naturally fast horse and I was early to go. I went fast and ended up winning by quite a margin, so the course proved more difficult than I thought it was going to. “The two-phases are quite long courses. There were a lot of jumps, but she kept her concentration. “She won a few ranking classes with me in Villamoura in Portugal at the beginning of the year, and she is one of those horses that you don’t feel like you are going that fast, but you are.” Sunday’s action began with the 138cms pony grand prix, sponsored by Clarkes Refurb Ltd, which delivered a fine display by Essex’s Claudia Moore. Claudia, riding Tullineasy Fear Deas, was a class act throughout, with a jump-off time of 33.35 seconds proving two seconds quicker than any other combination. Tabitha Kyle and Playboy van de Zoetewei took second, with Elissa Herrmann and Never Last Spartacus finishing third.

Locally-based Graham Lovegrove showcased his skill and experience to claim an impressive victory in Friday’s feature two-star class. The two-phase competition, sponsored by Gaskells Waste, attracted a bumper entry of more than 70 starters, and it was Graham and Alfie 192 that came up trumps. Ireland’s Matt Garrigan set the early pace, but Paul Barker and

Happy Boy clipped 52 hundredths of a second off his time, although that did not prove enough to secure a topthree finish. Graham’s time of 29.37 seconds proved too much for the rest, despite Graham Gillespie and Andretti going close on 30.06 seconds to finish as runners-up, with Emma Stoker and Townhead Tallulah V finishing third.

Scottish teenager Shaunie Greig won the 148cms Pony Grand Prix, sponsored by Carden Arms, and no-one could doubt her supremacy. Five combinations made it through to the jump-off in Bolesworth’s International Arena, with Shaunie being joined by Nicole Lockhead-Anderson, Faye Sutton and two rides for Claudia Moore. Nicole and Gangnam Style II set the pace with an impressive round in 37.17 seconds, but Shaunie moved into top gear immediately aboard Casino Royale VIII, making some remarkable turns to clock 33.56 seconds. Claudia finished in third and fourth places, respectively, with Elando van de Roshoeve and Shamrock du Gite.

RNATIONAL ENDURANCE . . . A PACKED SUMMER OF TOP-FLIGHT INTE FOR UP RS GEA , FOLK SUF K, PAR TON . . . STOP PRESS: EUS . . .NEXT RIDE EVENT IS 13TH JULY. . . VISIT WEBSITE FOR DETAILS www.eustonparkendurance.co.uk . . .

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REPORTS

Riders From East Anglia Qualify

In SEIB Search For a Star at Bury Farm he halfway stage Hanna Garner Roberta Baston for the 2018 SEIB and King and Winwood Tigers Eye Insurance Brokers Clovers Pride Search for a Star qualifiers took place at Bury Farm Equestrian Centre, Buckinghamshire on the 10th June. Search for a Star goes from strength to strength and there were plenty of entries at this Southern/Central venue. Several local riders did well to take home Horse Live at Stoneleigh in manufacturers have been HOYS tickets. November. brilliant when it comes to The winner of the hunter class at Taking top spot was Hanna Tigger’s feed, any problems and Bury Farm, Roberta Baston has Garner from St Albans with we ring them straightaway. We waited for a long time for her Margaret Burrows’, Winwood basically treat Tigger like a ticket to HOYS. Roberta and her Tigers Eye. This Welsh section D diabetic and he has to have feed own King Clover’s Pride took the gelding is very lucky to be alive that will give him energy but class having attended Search for following a bout of severe that is completely sugar-free. He a Star three years ago to finish laminitis in 2015. Hanna who has the biggest personality in sixth. Roberta from works for Margaret at her the world and there is already a Bassingbourne near Royston, Sandridge Bury Riding School plan in place to hire a coach for said: “When we came to Search and Livery yard said: “It means all the supporters from the yard for a Star before, Richard so much to us all that Tigger is to come down to Stoneleigh to Ramsay said that Walter needed going to be off to Your Horse watch him at the final.” some time to build up and that Live. He was nearly put down in Victoria Oliver’s Fell pony, we should come back.” Roberta early 2015 as his laminitis was Greenholme Falcon took the works as a school caterer, she so severe. The vet said to feed runner up spot with Victoria’s continued: “The kids at school him 15kg of hay a day, I 13-year-old daughter, Chantelle will be delighted to hear that we misunderstood and soaked the Chapman. This is Chantelle’s are off to HOYS. They quite hay before weighing it so Tigger first year showing having spent often ask on a Monday how we was being fed really very little. previous seasons grooming at have got on showing over the The vet then said it was this that shows for Victoria and her weekend.” saved his life.” Tigger is now hunter. Greenholme Falcon – There were some great entries in going from strength to strength, who is known at home as Dan – the new SEIB Search for a Star but he has a very strict daily has been owned by Victoria Mountain and Moorland routine and lives in at night, is since last August. Victoria said: qualifier with the first two places exercised in the morning, and “Chantelle was over the moon going to riders from East Anglia. then goes out for three hours in when the Search for a Star M&M This class is brand new this year the afternoon with a muzzle on. class was brought out this year, and the final will be held at Your Hanna added: “Our feed she wanted to have a go

Photographs by SMR Photos

Chantelle Chapman and Greenholme Falcon

straightaway! Chantelle works so hard with Dan doing everything herself, schooling him and keeping him looking tip-top. She is very excited about the finals at Your Horse Live and it is her dream to one day be able to compete at HOYS with Dan. I am sure with all the hard work and determination they will get there.” Chantelle is from Colchester and attends Manningtree High School. SEIB have this season been supporting some vital research being carried out by the Animal Health Trust into fractures in thoroughbred horses. This research has established a link between DNA and likelihood of fracture and work is now well underway into developing a simple DNA test to determine whether a horse is at risk of fracture. Debbie Guest from the AHT was at Bury Farm to take DNA samples from thoroughbreds that have finished their careers sound. She said: “I managed to get cheek

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swabs from 19 horses that were competing in the SEIB classes at Bury Farm. This takes my current total for the project to 263 control (non-fractured) horses. I was aiming to get 300 horses, so this is really great. All of the owners who I approached at Bury Farm were happy for me to take samples from their horses which was very kind of them as they were all busy at the show. I was very grateful for their time. Each horse takes around 5 minutes to sample, so it is fairly quick.” Debbie will also be attending the two further qualifiers for the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse finals at Vale View Equestrian Centre on the 5th August and Burghley on the 2nd September. Debbie continued: “I am really looking forward to attending the next two shows to hopefully reach our target in the sample collection and also to meet more of the owners and horses that are helping with the project.” Oliver Hood from Blo Norton near Diss riding Zoe Turner’s, Gateshead took a qualifying place at Bury Farm in the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse class by being runner up in the class. Oliver said: “He was brilliant on the day. He now has a bit of experience having been to HOYS Oliver Hood and Gateshead

last year in this class and it is great for Zoe who has had horses with us for around 15 years now. Zoe comes in and rides out at the yard a few mornings a week.” Oliver plans to head to the Hickstead Derby meeting with Gateshead now and he will contend riding horse classes at the county shows over the summer. Oliver continued: “Gateshead is the second horse we have had that has been in training with Bryan Smart. Bryan is so experienced and does a fair bit of showing alongside the racing so they know what type of horse will suit us.” SEIB has an ongoing commitment to ethical showing, including making every effort to wipe out the use of prohibited substances and encouraging fit not fat horses into the showring. Baileys Horse Feeds attended the qualifier at Bury Farm with their equine weighbridge and a trained nutritionist to help educate competitors. SEIB Marketing Manager Nicolina Mackenzie said: “The standard at Search for a Star increases year-on-year and this season we have some absolutely stunning horses through to compete in the Search for a Star final which is now in its 20th year at HOYS. We head north to our next qualifier at Alnwick Equestrian Centre in Northumberland on the 8th July which will be really interesting having not had a Search for a Star qualifier so far north for decades.”

Well Done! eah Fitton is a 12-yearold rider based near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. She attends Culford School and started riding three and a half years ago at Barrow Hall Stables; she got her first pony Bryn after a year and they had eighteen months together before Leah grew too tall for him. Leah then unfortunately fractured her collarbone whilst looking for her next pony. However she found Harry in October last year; he is a 14.2hh Connemara gelding and they bonded straight away. Leah was nervous after her injury and he looked after her and did what she asked whilst she rebuilt her confidence. Leah then took part in a NSEA Eventers Challenge Qualifier in Norfolk and was placed first. This meant qualifying for the National final at Hickstead on the 26th May. “We had never been to a stay away show so it was all very new and we certainly had no expectation to be placed knowing how many people would be there competing. However, they both took it entirely in their stride remaining upbeat, happy and full of enthusiasm,” explained mum Rachel. They took part in two warm up classes on the Saturday, each class had well over 60 competitors and they were placed fifth and third. On the Sunday they took part in their biggest challenge to date in a class that went on for 5 hours as there were so many entries and after a long wait to hear the results Leah and Harry were announced as the National Individual winners for their class. Such an achievement for Harry and Leah. “We are so grateful to Barrow Hall Stables, who provide guidance, support and look after their ponies Harry and Bryn so well, along with over the past three and half years having pretty much taught the whole of the family how to ride. Leah is also a member of Suffolk Hunt Pony Club who again are a constant source of support,” said Rachel. “We must give special mention to Ruth Radlett from Leah’s school who is always so enthusiastic about everything equestrian,” she concluded.

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PHOTONEWS • Suffolk Show • Trinity Park • 30th-31st May 2018

2nd place M&M WHP Cashel Bay JJ

Mimi Morley riding Puzzles Pleased as Punch, Ridden Champions

Tim Davies riding Tullylost Meryl, Showjumping Accumulator winner

2nd place RIHS Working Hunters, K Hirst riding Lislan Defi

Kim Wallis with Rising Phoenix, In-Hand Hack or Riding Horse Champions

Mrs Palmer’s Stanley Grange Gilt Edge, Reserve Best In Hand Pony

M&M WHP class winner PSF Molly

In Hand M&M Champion Springbourne Capricorn, handler Mark Kilbey

Justine Armstrong Small riding Carlingfords King, RIHS Working Hunter winners

Daisy Pitt riding Market Fiesta, 2nd place Novice Working Hunter

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Liane Smith riding Wellington M, Int Stairway class winners

In Hand Hack or Riding Horse Reserve Champions, Jean Cartwright and Cartigan Afternoon Surprise

Novice Working Hunter winners, Edmond Mahony riding DSL Jacaroo

Mimi Morley riding Puzzles Pleased as Punch

Cindy Baldry riding King Arthur, Ridden Senior Reserve Champions

Ridden Irish Draught Champions, Karen Walsh riding Moylough Roger D

Faye Barrow riding Waltham Scorpio, Ridden Senior winners

Sophie Harris SEH Photography

Mrs Cowie-Blandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Merkisayre Brainstorm, Reserve In Hand M&M

Felicity McLachian riding Dudley, 2nd place Ridden Senior

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VETS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

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