Absolute Horse - September 2018 by Absolute Horse Magazine

E M K â&#x20AC;&#x2122;M C - I E! PI UP RE

Absolute

SEPTEMBER 2018

Medal

! s r e n n i W AND MUCH MORE!

PLUS

FANTASTIC PRIZES TO BE WON...

SEPTEMBER

2018 ISSUE 326

Claudia Moore, youngest Brit to win a Pony European Championship medal - see page 58 for report.

Photo: Helen Revington

Photo: Adam Francis

REGULARS 4 News 6 Ariat Saddle Snaps 23 Rhea Asks...Mastering Social Media 54 Reports 62 Vets Directory 63 Classifieds 64 Showdates COMPETITIONS & GIVEAWAYS 15 Barbour 16 Timothy Foxx 21 Grub’s

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.

INSIDE

WHAT’S

26 36 40 FEATURES 42 8 Dressage Focus - including interviews with Carl Hester, Bert 46 Sheffield and Becky Moody 49 16 Country & Equestrian 50 Clothing & Accessories 52 24 VetWatch - Gastric Ulcers

Nutrition Worming: Part 1 Health & Welfare Stabling & Bedding Saddlery & Tack The Professionals Ride Like: Gaby Lucas Ride Like: Rosie Howard

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NEWS

STOP PRESS:

BRANSBY HORSES SECURES FUTURE WORK WITH

LAND PURCHASE he Lincolnshire-based equine rescue and welfare charity, Bransby Horses, has agreed to acquire 800 acres of land to secure the future for thousands of horses that suffer from abuse, neglect or abandonment. Grange Farm, Barlings at Langworth, is a vital investment in the charity’s 50th anniversary year to relieve pressure on it’s site in the village of Bransby, which is at

capacity due to the high number of horses, ponies, donkeys and mules that require a safe haven. Bransby Horses said the acquisition was made possible ‘thanks to the generosity of donors over the last 50 years who have now enabled it’s rescue and welfare work to continue for the next five decades and beyond’. “Sadly, welfare issues aren’t going away, so we need to work together with our supporters to look at

GET IN THE SADDLE FOR

what is projected to happen in the long term so we can use this land resource in the most effective way to meet our core purpose.” Said Bransby Horses’ CEO, Jo Snell: “We are developing a long term plan for the stewardship of this picturesque landholding to ensure a beautiful environment in which to keep our horses and to continue to deliver on the aims of the charity for the future.” www.bransbyhorses.co.uk

CHARITY HORSE RIDE

iders are being urged to saddle up and join a sponsored charity hack that’s raising money for Cancer Research UK. Ride for Research is a sponsored horse ride taking place in September - the horse ride can be done anywhere, with anyone, and for any distance. Rather than organising a sponsored ride at a specific place, riders can hack around their local area to save on travel costs and can get as many people to join them as possible. The organisers expect over 700 riders will take part in the equestrian fundraiser and are asking for horse riders across the country to get involved and join the fight against cancer. The events will take place on 22nd and 23rd September and it’s hoped the initiative will raise £70,000 for vital cancer research. Ride for Research was originally started by Susannah Baughan two years ago and was so successful that Cancer Research UK decided to continue it as an annual event. www.cancerresearchuk.org/support-us/find-an-event/ridefor-research-2018

The organisers of this year’s spectacular Liverpool International Horse Show, 28th to 31st December have launched a new initiative. When groups, clubs and associations get together to buy 10 or more tickets in one transaction, they will receive 10% off as well as a ‘BUY 10 get 1 FREE’ offer! www.liverpoolhorseshow.com

TRIBUTES

PAID TO ICKY

beloved rescued pony, who was a popular face of Redwings Horse Sanctuary’s Adoption Scheme for over 20 years, has passed away at the grand age of 30. Native pony Icky had lived at Redwings’ Caldecott Visitor Centre, near Great Yarmouth in Norfolk, since 1999. Icky was rescued from a horse sale having been destined for slaughter.

Competition Winners: Absorbine: Coral Blew, Essex; Elaeanor Laws; Dot Creasey. Aniwell: Diana Cook; Sonia Cowie-Bland, Suffolk; Lesley Gillman, Essex; Julia Prentice; Susan Sims. British Horse Feeds: Eilish Lawler, Suffolk; Diane Thomas, Beds; Ruth Pennock, Melissa InghamBrophy, Deborah Hilliard, Essex; Kerry Bennett, Essex; Carolyn Birchell, Lisa Whiteley, Lincs; Charlotte Green, Norfolk; Cindy Boardman, Norfolk; Erin Audino, Lorraine Carey. Horslyx: Louise Harding, Cambs; Linda Flavell, Hannah Twinn. Equine America: Karen King. Horsehage: Rachel Leek; Sally Hayes; Hannah Price, Herts; Emma Dobson; Sharon Smith; Jane Simpson, Essex; Dawn Monk, Sameena Rush, Essex; Diane Wilson, David Pullar, Wendy Pearce, Jessica Cook, Kerry McNab, Jackie Foulds. Spanish Boot Company: Emma Flower, Essex. Equitheme: Susan Dawson.

SEIB INSURANCE BROKERS TO GIVE

£100K IN 2019

ollowing the success of the launch of SEIB Giving in 2018, SEIB Insurance Brokers will grant £100,000 to good causes in 2019. The winning charity will receive a grant of £50,000 and another £50,000 will be split between other good causes. SEIB are asking the general public to put forward their nominations for the charity they would like to see win the £50K. Nominations are now open and will close on the 30th November. Once a shortlist of charities has been drawn up, SEIB clients will have the final vote for their favourite project. The winning charity and runners up will be announced at the SEIB Charity Awards Luncheon on the 22nd March 2019. SEIB Chief Executive Officer Barry Fehler explained: “We were delighted to be able to hold our first Charity Awards in 2018 and owing to their success the total amount we have for charity has doubled to £100,000 for 2019. SEIB is so successful because we are totally customer focussed and this is another way that our clients can have their say.” Always known for ‘putting something back’, SEIB is a commercial business with a charitable purpose. The company insures numerous charities and not for profit organisations. SEIB is an independent broker but is ultimately owned by a charity called the Allchurches Trust Limited and profits are used for good causes. The aim of SEIB’s immediate owner, the Ecclesiastical Insurance Office Plc, aims to give £100million for good causes through the Allchurches Trust by 2020. No charity is too small to be in the running for the 2019 SEIB charity giving, but turnover is capped at £15m. The grant will have to be used for a specific project which will make a true difference to the cause it is aimed at. All charities will need to be UK registered and projects are to be UK based but past winners will not be eligible. Mr Fehler continued: “SEIB believe that some of their company profits should be used to contribute to the common good. Our company really wants to make a difference - for example, £50,000 could fund a new sensory room at a children’s hospice, a kennel or stable block for an animal charity or for a homeless charity to purchase more facilities. The choices are endless.” www.seib.co.uk/giving

Wetnose donated £3000 to the Equine Market Watch to help ponies like Larry.

Diary Date... Wetnose Day will be taking place across the UK on 21st September to help educate and promote the issues of animal welfare, as well as raise much needed funds to cover essential food and medical treatments for animals in desperate need in the UK. www.wetnoseanimalaid.com

Sat 6th - Sun 7th Oct

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! 9am - 6pm Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 2pm Sunday

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SADDLE SNAPS

SADDLE

WINNER!

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

ARIAT BURFORD BOOTS worth over £130!

- Jess Malone

“How to grow your own horse: water regularly and store outside. Leave 4-6 years.”

- Jessica Cook

“I’ll pose, but then please let me eat the flowers?”

“Sorry to disturb you but... where the hell where is our dinner?”

Sponsored by

- Gemma Shanks

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

- Kerry McNab

This is Odin who stands by the adage... “only real men wear pink... tutus”

- Gemma White

“How hard can it be to use this thing!!?”

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!

- Lydia Alderson

'Bed Head' t - Melissa Picket

“Close up; cheeeese!”

DRESSAGE: IN THE EAST

“To qualify through to the Championships would be the most unbelievable experience” - Jo Craig

MEET TWO RIDERS

Lauren Larte

HEADING TO THE PETPLAN EQUINE AREA FESTIVAL FINAL AT CODHAM PARK

ver 4,000 riders from around the country have been competing in the Petplan Equine Area Festivals over the last four months, all vying for a place at the Petplan Equine Area Festival Finals. The first Area Festival Final will be held at Codham Park, Essex from Friday 14th to Sunday 16th September. Those heading to the Area Festival Final at Codham Park will have worked hard to achieve their qualification at one of the 24 Area Festivals, which began in May. To compete at an Area Festival, both horse and rider combinations will need to gain three scores at 62% or higher at Preliminary, Novice and Elementary level and two scores at 60% and above at Medium to Intermediate II level. They will then need to place within the top ten to qualify for an Area Festival Final. The Championships will then be held at Hartpury College in April 2019. Qualifying through to an Area

Festival Final is a huge achievement and something that riders Lauren Larter from Hertfordshire and Jo Craig from Essex have been working towards for a number of months. Lauren and her horse Diamore (Bridgette) qualified for the Codham Park Area Festival Final at the end of June at Brook Farm for both Prelim Silver and Novice Bronze. “I bred Bridgette myself; out of my Thoroughbred mare Dianchi and by Avanti Amorous Archie, she is a true Irish Sports Horse and is a very sweet mare,” explains Lauren. “She is now 7years-old and when I was backing her I was concerned she would be a little too quiet, as she just took everything in her stride, but she’s turned out to be just a lovely little mare with the best attitude to work. Whenever she comes out of the arena, she always makes a beeline for my partner and tries to rob him of polos,” laughs Lauren. Lauren and Bridgette have had a very successful year which began with them winning their Novice class at the Area 7 Riding Club

qualifier for the Intermediate National Finals, along with their qualification through to the Area Festival Final at Codham Park. They were also part of the Herts dressage team that placed second at the Intercounty Competition. “The Petplan Equine Area Festivals have been great fun. This was my first time competing in the series for a couple of years and the whole experience has been great for both of us. To qualify through to the Championships would be amazing especially as Bridgette really performs her best in a big environment but I am keeping my goals realistic and if we finish within the top ten at Codham Park, I will be happy,” concludes Lauren. Jo Craig also bred and backed her 5-year-old gelding, Infinity II (Fin) who she qualified for the Area Festival Final at Codham Park at Brook Farm. Like Lauren, Jo and Fin qualified for both the Prelim Silver and Novice Bronze Finals. “I’ve had so much fun on this horse. He’s just taken on everything that I’ve thrown at

him. We’ve only done a few Novice classes, so I never imaged that we would qualify through to the Finals at that level,” explains Jo. Jo bred Fin out of her own mare and by Jessica Williams stallion Ursus, “He’s such a sweet horse, if a little annoying,” laughs Jo. “He can be quite in your face and wants to just be everyone’s friend, whether you like it or not. He’s only young, so I try hard not to put too much pressure on him, we just go out and try and have fun. We did the intercounty teams and he was just a superstar, he really performs. “We’ve thoroughly enjoyed our Area Festival journey and it’s always nice to come away with a rosette,” commented Jo. Sharon Peters, Event Organiser at Codham Park commented, “We are delighted that Codham Park will be hosting a Petplan Equine Area Festival Final. The competition has a true championship feel and we’ve seen some fantastic horse and rider combinations ride down the centre line over the years. I am very much looking forward to this year’s competition and I want to wish all those heading to Codham Park the very best of luck and congratulations to those that make it through to the Championships!” www.petplanequine.co.uk/ area-festivals

NEW SPONSOR OF DRESSAGE AWARD

he Animal Health Trust UK Equestrian Awards will be celebrating equestrian excellence on Wednesday 31st October and is excited to announce a new sponsor of its Dressage Award. This year, Devoucoux Saddles will, for the first time, join the AHT to mark the achievements of riders, owners, trainers and horses from the world of equestrianism. In addition, this year marks the 30th anniversary of the Animal Health Trust UK Equestrian Awards. Since starting in the late 1980s the awards have grown in size and stature into one of the

highlights of the equestrian calendar. Attracting high-profile equestrian guests such as Sir Nick Skelton, Spencer Wilton and the GB eventing team. Kevin Clements, of the AHT, said: “We’re really excited to have Devoucoux join us this year as an award sponsor, in this our 30th anniversary year, at the Dorchester Hotel in London.”

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DRESSAGE

WE TALK TO THE DRESSAGE MAESTRO TO FIND OUT WHAT IT IS LIKE TO SPEND A DAY ON HIS YARD, COURTESY OF HIS SPONSOR SUREGROW.

AT HOME WITHCarl Hester

lympic gold medallist Carl Hester MBE is the holder of more than 65 national dressage titles. Set in the Gloucestershire countryside, Carl’s picturesque yard is home to his treasured and multi-medal winning dressage horses. Surrounding the yard is post and railed turnout paddocks where all the horses get to relax and spend some down time after training and competing. Beyond the paddocks are the fields where both the youngsters live and Carl’s retired horses that have helped him to his major successes over the years. Carl is very fortunate that his yard is supported by a great team who give all the horses the very best care and attention. The team features dressage superstar Charlotte Dujardin and international travelling groom Alan Davies.

There is no such thing as a lie-in at Carl’s and the team are well known for saying he is ‘irritatingly cheerful’ and bouncing with energy first thing in the morning with his mobile ringing and a shout to the dogs he is off to the yard. The schedule is tight, but not hurried where the horses are concerned. Carl never rushes a schooling session and each horse is worked for as long as is required to achieve the goal Carl has set. He misses nothing and calls instructions to the others on the team as they school alongside him. The radio plays and quiet concentration fills the air. The afternoons are when Carl teaches his many clients. Daily Routine Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: All the horses are worked as below: 7.00am - 8.30am. The first

Suregrow Valegro grazing

thing we do is take round morning feeds, as we go into each stable we make sure the previous nights feed has been eaten, check legs and see there are healthy droppings. After they have eaten we start to muck out, change rugs depending on the temperature and get the first horses ready to go out in the paddocks or on the walker. Carl and Charlotte arrive to start riding at 8.30am so we make sure the first horses are ready.

8.30am - 1.30pm. The yard is swept and we continue to get horses ready for Carl and Charlotte to ride. The team warm up the horses before they are schooled and walk them off, usually down the drive; when they finish, often Carl and Charlotte will hack them round the field together. After work all the horses are bathed and groomed. This is a really busy time with everyone focused to get the horses finished by 1.30pm. 2.30pm - 4pm. After lunch we clean the tack and do all the general yard duties and paddock maintenance. 4pm - 5.30pm. All the horses have a quick groom before night rugs are put on, we start the final tidy of the wash bays and tack room, skip out, sweep the yard, take the hay trolley round and finally evening feeds. The arenas are levelled and we once the tack room is locked we leave to the sound of contented munching. 9.00pm. We take it in turns to do the late night check, a quick look over each stable door to see they are all comfortable and well. Wednesdays and Saturday: Horses are hacked for an hour. Sunday: Horses day off. This gives us a day to catch up on other jobs like pulling manes and tails, cleaning the horsebox and all the other jobs that crop up.

“

We make sure our horses are turned out where appropriate or go on the walker. Our paddocks have benefited greatly from the addition of Suregrow fertiliser. www.suregrowuk.com

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

Bert Sheffield

Photo: Rich Neale

Tell us about what’s been going on lately? “My 9-year-old Gelderlander/Dutch Warmblood-cross mare, Fairuza (or Wonky as we call her at home, due her unusual white markings on her face), made a very impressive international debut at the CPEDI3* at Bishop Burton in East Yorkshire last month. Since purchasing Wonky as a feral 6year-old who had never been handled, I have been working hard to train and produce her over the past three years. We competed successfully in a couple of national shows, and then represented for Canada in the Grade III division at Bishop Burton, taking second place on the first day followed by a win in the Individual on the second

day and then second place in the Freestyle with a score of 71.70%. This exceeded all my expectations of Wonky, who is still relatively inexperienced in the competition ring and I am thrilled with her performance and am very hopeful for her future career in international paradressage competitions.”

Which horse has been your ‘Horse of a Lifetime’ so far? “My ‘Horse of a Lifetime’ is Wonderboy (Whoop), the first ‘proper’ big horse I owned and my first international para horse. We bought him as a very, very

WE CATCH UP WITH HORSEHAGE-SPONSORED PARA-EQUESTRIAN RIDER, ROBERTA (BERT) SHEFFIELD, 37. BASED IN SOUTH LINCOLNSHIRE, BERT RIDES FOR CANADA AND WAS SELECTED ONTO THE CANADIAN TEAM FOR THE WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES IN NORMANDY IN 2014 AS WELL AS THE CANADIAN PARALYMPIC TEAM AT RIO IN 2016. unruly 4-year-old and over the years I have trained him through all the Grand Prix exercises. Whoop qualified for the 2014 World Equestrian Games but was my reserve horse as he is so accident and injury prone. He is now living down with Avery Maude Dressage where he was Avery’s advanced schoolmaster until he suddenly developed a bizarre heart problem which looked as though it would kill him. Yet again he used one of his nine lives and has now recovered, much to the amazement of everyone.”

Most useful advice you’ve been given? “The most useful piece of advice is ‘Ride the horse you are on NOW’. It’s a bit Zen really! Meaning put aside the rest of things going around your head,

concentrate and be mindful of what your horse is feeling in the moment. Forget about issues with other horses or in the past, don’t anticipate issues unnecessarily. Just be in that unique moment with your horse.” Your future plans? “My aim this year is for selection onto the Canadian para team with Bailaor for the World Equestrian Games this year which take place in the USA. My passion is training and developing horses so I am incredibly thrilled to now be able to also compete Wonky at international level. She is very special to me and I feel as though we are now beginning our journey together towards team selection for the 2020 Paralympics in Tokyo.”

Bert and Laughton Manor ‘Whoop’

Bert with Wonky

DRESSAGE

BUILDING BLOCKS

ONE BY ONE!

he scales of training are like the building blocks of dressage training, they are a really useful checklist to use, especially if you are training a lot on your own. The scales are: rhythm, suppleness, contact, impulsion, straightness and collection, and throughout them all you also need balance. It's not as simple as working on one and then progressing to the next - they are often interlinked, but they do help to give you focus and direction in your training.

Rhythm Masters Rhythm is not only about having a 4 beat walk, 2 beat trot and 3 beat canter, it's about having control of that rhythm and being able to adjust it. When you go in to ride your test

you want to be able to maintain a lovely consistent easy rhythm, but to do this you actually need to work on being able to alter it - you should be able to go quicker or slower, and make the pace bigger or smaller, that way if your horse tries to take over in the test, by either backing off or running away, you will have the tools available to control it and maintain consistency.

Supple With Style Suppleness in it’s simplest form is just bend - the horses body should follow the line or curve that it is on, and should be uniform throughout the whole horse. However, as with rhythm my key word is adjustability you should be able to take more bend than you need, or take the bend to the outside; you should be able to place the horse’s body

Photo: Risto Aaltonen

COURTESY OF CHILDÉRIC SADDLES, INTERNATIONAL DRESSAGE RIDER BECKY MOODY GIVES READERS A BREAK DOWN OF THE SCALES OF TRAINING…

where you want it. With slightly more experienced riders, I look not only at the lateral suppleness - the left/right adjustability, but also the longitudinal suppleness front/back adjustability. For me this is an essential element when starting to work towards the higher levels.

Keep In Contact Contact itself is the feeling you have in the rein, but again for me it's more about the 'connection' - the energy that starts at the back of the horse being able to pass through the body to the rein. I very strongly believe that there is no such thing as a 'correct' contact, different horses need different contacts at different

points in their education; a horse that tends to try and drop behind the contact needs to be ridden forward into a nice positive connection. A horse that can get too strong might need to be ridden almost off the contact so that it learns to hold itself up!

Impulsion Impulsion is energy, and it's also about being in the right 'gear' (of the motor kind, not the wardrobe kind). Suppleness and contact have to be good to have good impulsion, because the energy must be able to travel easily through the horse’s body to the rein, without meeting any blocks of tightness or resistance. One of the things we want when we are training is that things

Super uphill balance, an easy contact, and clearly showing a good rhythm

A trot lacking impulsion, and also showing a lack of suppleness

How a lack of suppleness and balance affects the corner

should look easy and effortless, and good amounts of energy are essential for this to happen (imagine trying to do a walk to canter transition with low revs, in third gear) STALL. Or a medium canter in 2nd gear (going nowhere). Straight To The Point Straightness is directly connected to suppleness - at its most simple, the horse’s back feet should follow the path of the front feet, so on a circle there must be enough suppleness through the horse’s body that the back feet don't swing out, and in a straight line the horse must have enough core strength that it can remain straight. Most horses struggle with straightness most obviously in canter (very often they are inclined to go slightly 1/4s in and onto their outside shoulder).

A Great Collection Collection is the continuing engagement of the horse’s energy. Throughout the horse’s training we are endeavouring to

draw the hindquarters more under the body and lighten the shoulder, and by doing this to develop more lightness and ease in how the horse moves. However the most important thing throughout all the scales of training is BALANCE without balance it is so difficult to improve the rhythm, or develop suppleness or alter the contact. Balance is also what ultimately gives you self carriage, and it's only when your horse has self carriage that you can really begin to develop their way of moving. The most useful exercises to help the balance are transitions both between the paces and within the pace, but they must be well ridden transitions! So, when you are training by yourself and you are maybe finding it a bit tricky to analyse how things are going, just have a walk for a minute and think through the scales of training. Either it will make you realise that things are going well and that you have everything where you want it, or it will help you to ascertain where your weak link is, and how you might go about improving it in a logical and systematic way. www.childericsaddles.co.uk

The Childéric Silhouette Girth is a super stylish dressage girth, which has been designed to help keep the girth and ultimately the saddle in the ideal place for the horse and rider. Prices start at £330. Riding shoulder in well on the 3/4 line - an exercise that helps suppleness, balance, straightness

Dressage Anywhere Judges 10,000 Tests!

Dressage Anywhere, the online dressage competition and training website, is delighted to announce that it has reached a real milestone - it has judged over 10,000 dressage tests from around the world! Since its launch in 2010, Dressage Anywhere has been running monthly online dressage competition and training classes, with tests judged by FEI, BD List 1 and 2 Judges, making it the go to website for all things online dressage. www.dressageanywhere.com

Product News... The Equithème Short Dressage Coat has a fitted shape with four cream buttons, each featuring a gold crown detail on the front. RRP: £149. www.equitheme.co.uk

The Burghley Brooch features eight pavé set white diamonds within a solid 9ct gold design. RRP: £1,362. www.sylviakerrjewellery.com Use Cortaflex HA and keep your horse or pony’s joints healthy. RRP: 227g/£19.99, 454g/£38.40 and 3.6kg/£218.50. www.equine-america.co.uk Dressage markers available in two types - the ‘Tread-in’ type on a handy hooped frame and eight letters to screw onto walls and fences. RRP: £74.99 and £49.99 respectively. www.abbeyengland.com

DRESSAGE Product News...

This Badminton Brooch/stock-pin is handcrafted in Sterling silver. RRP: £184. www.sylvia kerrjewellery.com Dressage print scarf. RRP: £49. www.emmabrown tweed.co.uk

Buteless High Strength Solution is a natural and palatable formulation that can be used in the short or long term. Can also be used for horses in competition. RRP: 1ltr/£56.99, 4ltr/£79.99. www.equine-america.co.uk

Glucosamine 12,000 milligrams per serving and fortified with MSM and HA, to support your horse’s joint health. Dressage BD approved waistcoat. RRP: £225. www.emmabrown tweed.co.uk Champagne Crystal Browband is handmade on English Sedgwick Leather with Preciosa Czech crystals. RRP: £40. www.paragon equestrian.co.uk

Dressage horse

MATT WATERWORTH, BITTING EXPERT AND DESIGNER WITH HIS OWN COLLECTION, EXPERT BITS, EXPLAINS MORE

Jersey Dressage Tailcoat. RRP: £169.95. www.equetech.com

RRP: 900g/£15.99.

BITTING THE

f you’re looking to change your bit for dressage I would always suggest staying as close to your current bit as possible, whilst complying with the British Dressage rulebook. The rulebook states that any bit that gives an aid isn’t dressage legal; in my opinion the rulebook needs updating which has happened in recent years but still has a long way to go. So we need to first look at the conformation of the horse’s mouth and find a bit that suits the shape of the mouth; whether it’s chunky and large or small and petit, bits will put different pressures in the mouth dependent on the shape. This is most critical in dressage as we are asking more precise signals than any other discipline, so small niggling unwanted pressures can make the small differences that effect our dressage scores. For instance a bit that doesn’t have enough shape and doesn’t give enough tongue relief can make the horse feel strong, once the horse goes against the pressure then the head can start to lose it’s position, either going long and

low, raising or sometimes coming back behind the bit. A small change to a bit that has a nicer shape to follow the mouth conformation can stop the horse being as strong and keep the head in the vertical position. It will also make the horse look for the contact and come back from behind the bit; reactions to pressures differ from horse to horse. An important part of bitting is getting the right thickness of bit. A common opinion is to use a thicker bit to make the horse more comfortable, but in fact thick bits take more room up in the mouth and can cause more pressure. Going thinner is usually regarded as sharper, but in fact sometimes going to a thinner bit creates more room in the mouth and the thinner bit can also make a more precise signal with not as much pressure being exerted on the mouth. So remember, when bitting for dressage, try and be as kind to the mouth as possible to get a happier horse, and in turn a more responsive horse, that will follow our commands more precisely. www.bitsnbridles.co.uk

WIN!

COMPETITION!

A FULL BARBOUR AUTUMN/WINTER 2018 OUTFIT! British lifestyle brand, Barbour is offering one lucky reader the chance to win a full outfit from the new Autumn/Winter 2018 country collection. The prize includes all items shown on this page! Barbour Tartan Lambswool Scarf £27.95 This unisex scarf in signature Barbour tartan is 100% lambswool and a practical, timeless piece.

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COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN FASHION & ACCESSORIES

FOXXY FASHION TIPS WHEN IT COMES TO CELEBRATING WINTER STYLE, BRITISH DESIGNER LABEL TIMOTHY FOXX HAVE FASHION ALL SEWN UP WITH THEIR GORGEOUS COLLECTION OF COUNTRY TWEED PIECES. IN THIS FEATURE, TIMOTHY FOXX’S DESIGNER ROSALIE EUSTACE GIVES HER TOP TIPS ON WHAT’S HOT AND WHAT’S NOT FOR THIS SEASON.. e always stick to our country roots with a play on fashion trends. For example, Chestnut is a strong colour story on the catwalk, so we have taken hints of this and introduced it through our beautiful new tweed addition, Juno. By picking key fashion trends and mixing them with country tweed you get the best (wearable) pieces from both worlds! Remember, if you like a fashion trend, pick elements rather than copying it head to toe. We love mixing tweed with urban styling. Wearing a hoodie underneath a singlebreasted tweed jacket really

works, as well as keeping you nice and toasty on those cold winter days. Or a polo shirt teamed with a pair of skinny jeans, heels and jewellery gives you instant glamour! Don’t forget slogans are big on clothing this season and our Timothy Foxx logos also tick that trend. When you are buying new pieces for your wardrobe, be it horsey or townie, then try and work it into what else you have in your wardrobe. For example, if you are buying new breeches, what other colours do you have that would complement them? If you own lots of Black or Navy,

go for a plaid pair of breeches that have a subtle dark check throughout but are perhaps of a brighter colour, which you can then echo throughout your outfit with some nice winter accessories such as gloves or scarves. This way you can update your riding wardrobe without breaking the bank! Equestrian-inspired fashion is also back for this season, so why not team your leather riding boots (cleaned of course!) with a pair of jeans, statement scarf, t-shirt and jacket for a look that wouldn’t look out of place in Paris or Portsmouth this winter! www.timothyfoxx.co.uk

WIN!

TIMOTHY FOXX IS GIVING ONE LUCKY READER THE CHANCE TO WIN ONE OF THEIR UNION JACK EARWARMERS IN JUNO TWEED!

Featuring a super soft fleece lining and elasticated section to the back, these earwarmers are perfect for keeping your ears toasty. Sizes: S or M RRP: £28. *Prize subject to availability

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

GEAR UP FOR AUTUMN WITH

i g g o T

s tan lines fade and leaves start to fall, Autumn is here, bringing with it the arrival of Toggi’s AW18 range and we couldn’t be more excited! Highlights include the Rochester tweed collection featuring the Mandeville ‘must-have’ tweed cape with a removable premium faux fur collar and a pretty floral lining. The exclusive wool cloth is based on a traditional Scottish houndstooth check reinvented in rich berry and green. The opulent colour palette is inspired by evergreen landscapes and winter berries and is showcased using carefully selected tactile fabrics and trims.

The Branagh jacket, padded with the softest polyester filling and finished with high gloss gold trims is perfect for long winter walks in the countryside and looks amazing when paired with the Antoinette printed shirt and Galacia suede bag. When the reality of the everchanging British weather and cold and soggy trips to the yard kicks in Toggi have got you covered too. Their in-house design team undertake an extensive research and development process to create performance clothing that is designed with wearer comfort in mind. The Noriker breeches are super stretchy and fleece lined,

promising an extra cosy and comfortable wear whilst the Asquith coat is waterproof, breathable and features ergonomically placed stretch panels making it the perfect choice for outdoor activities. Whatever your outdoor pursuit of choice there is something in this extensive range to ensure you do it in comfort and style. www.toggi.com

From top: New Mandeville Ladies Tweed Cape RRP: £230. Branagh Ladies Padded Jacket RRP: £130. Noriker Ladies Sock Bottom Breeches. RRP: £47.50.

Galicia Suede Bag. RRP: £200.

Holstein Ladies Breeches with Sock Bottom. RRP: £55. Asquith Ladies Equestrian Coat. RRP: £155.

Clarisse Ladies Mid Layer Jacket RRP: £75.

Antoinette Ladies Printed Shirt. RRP: £60.

COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN FASHION & ACCESSORIES

SEP Jordan Taupe Linen Shawl. RRP: from £88-£190. www.sepjordan.com

The Portobello. RRP: £275. www.fairfax andfavor.com

Silver snaffle drop earrings. RRP: £30. www.pegasus jewellery.net

Childéric Classique Satchel is available in over 25 colours ways and made to order. Available in two sizes. RRP: from £963. www.childeric saddles.co.uk

& n m u t u A ter Style! Win

New Pluma and Antler Shawls. RRP: £110. www.evemyand evemy.com

The Melford Trilby in Dark Green. RRP: £95. www.hicksand brown.com

The Rockingham. RRP: £315. www.fairfax andfavor.com

Newmarket Luxe Dry Wax Quilted Jacket. RRP: £325. www.hicksand brown.com

18 Carat gold plated Polo Ring. RRP: £95. www.rennejewellery.co.uk

Silk scarf in Hexaddict gold and white. RRP: £145. www.albion england.co.uk

Super X Country t-shirts. RRP £19. www.superxcountry.co.uk

The Sporting Jacket in Airforce. RRP: £299. www.holland cooper.com

Bugsy Hat in Light Grey, Olive, Navy. RRP: £65. www.annabel brocks.com 18 Carat gold plated Stirrup Necklace. RRP: from £85. www.renne jewellery.co.uk

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

Hector Jumper. RRP: £90. Olive Jumper. RRP: £90. www.mistamina.com

Georgina Coat in a beautiful British extended Herringbone tweed. RRP: £445. www.butlerstewart.co.uk

Foxley Handbag RRP: £195. www.hyde andhare.com

COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN FASHION & ACCESSORIES

FASHION WITH A

Conscience

ow does a passion for horses, sustainability and fashion combine? Introducing Sahel, an exciting London based brand that brings together these elements to present a range of accessories. The label was created by former fashion editor and lifelong equestrian, Charlie Davies, who gave up the runways for the desert of Burkina Faso, West Africa. Horse lovers by tradition, the Fulani people used to dress their steeds in vibrant tassels to accentuate the horse’s movement. It was this flamboyant and artistic flair that caught Charlie’s fashion eye, and inspired the birth of Sahel. Traditional Fulani horse harnesses have strong braided straps which are hand woven by highly skilled leather workers, and it is this craftsmanship which we see

exclusively incorporated across the Sahel bags and accessories collection. Now working with traditional English bridle makers, Sahel have been able to combine custom with contemporary via their made to order reins. The African made reins are flexible and beautiful to the eye, harnessing the strength of this traditional artistry. Since their launch in 2008, the company remain committed to supporting the preservation of Equetech Kingsley technical showerproof gilet has a cosy pillow collar and super warm lightweight Bio-Down insulation. RRP: £78.50. www.equetech.com Classic Waterproof Jacket. RRP: £58.50. www.equitheme.co.uk

traditional skills and revival of artisanal livelihoods. They adhere to Fair Trade principles and invest in West African artisan communities, providing better access to health care, clean water and primary education. This includes working with humane action groups to deliver back into these

communities a range of positive impacts including well drilling, water pumps, solar panel installations and child medical checks for their craftsmen and their fellow villagers. Watch their story: vimeo.com/222471544 www.saheldesign.com

Trinity Bangles Stirrup Charm.RRP: £100. www.renne jewellery.co.uk

Olivia Tullett Clara Poncho. RRP: £159. www.olivia tullett.co.uk

WIN! COMPETITION

WE HAVE TEAMED UP WITH GRUB’S TO OFFER 1 LUCKY READER THE CHANCE TO WIN A PAIR OF FROSTLINE BOOTS!

This Jaffa Orange Tweed Cape is made from only the finest British, 100% pure wool tweed. RRP: £125. www.thehomefurlong.co.uk These Technical Riding Leggings are styled in a four-way stretch technical fabric. RRP: £38 www.paragon equestrian.co.uk

Featuring a simple centre seam to give all round foot comfort’, the Grubs Frostline boots have been double tested in production and are totally waterproof from top to bottom. They offer 5.0 Technology, providing comfort and insulation below -10º to +30º, making them perfect for all types of weather. The Superdri lining makes the boot hard-wearing and wicks away moisture from the wearer’s foot. Available in Green and Black in UK sizes 3-13 and Violet and Fuchsia in UK sizes 3-8. RRP: £84.95. www.grubsboot.com

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

COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN FASHION & ACCESSORIES

OUTFIT OF THE DAY Highborn & Harwicke

ighborn & Harwicke is a new British clothing brand from the heart of the Suffolk Coast, combining country style with modern minimalism. Inspired by hunting, equestrian and other country pursuits, infusing traditional country iconography with a modern aesthetic, Highborn & Harwicke is bringing a new spin on English country style, and celebrating it’s Suffolk heritage along the way. www.highbornandharwicke.co.uk All T-shirts RRP: £25. Alderton Polo Shirts RRP: £35. Orford Sweatshirts RRP: £40. Kettleburgh Hoodies RRP: £50.

Sterling Silver Double Knot Cuff Bracelet. RRP: £90. Sterling Silver Galloping Horse Spinner Ring. RRP: £55. www.hihosilver.co.uk

Hyde & Hare Buckleigh Oversized Clutch. RRP: £85. www.hydeandhare.com

Alderbury Jacket. RRP: £125. www.sportinghares.com

RHEA ASKS...

Pheasant Necklace styled in sterling silver and decorated with 14ct rose gold and enamel. RRP: £58. www.ladida-andover.com

Mackenzie & George Belton leather belt is just 25mm wide, meaning it fits through belt loops with ease. RRP: £39.99. www.mackenzie andgeorge.com Cashmere and Faux Fur Pom Pom Bobble Hat. RRP: £75. www.annabel brocks.com

Sterling Silver Farrier Nail Bangle. RRP: £65. www.hihosilver.co.uk

AWOL Sweatshirt RRP: £65. www.annabel brocks.com

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...

ollowing on from my August edition column, this is the second part of my article looking at all things social media, and how to best utilise your platforms. So whether you are promoting your business, sharing your own unique journey, or you are wanting to attract sponsorship, read on... 1. It’s called social for a reason. Don’t make it all about you – it’s not – it’s about your fans and followers. If you want engagement (and you do!), ask your audience questions, respond to comments, show you actually care about them. 2. Engagement is the goal. Big numbers are nice for the ego, but a huge unengaged following won’t generate anything of value. Go for engagement over numbers. Always. 3. Imagery. Instagram is a hugely visual platform, but all the social media platforms have visual elements. You want your content to stop someone’s thumb from scrolling… and good images have this power. 4. Get involved. There are a number of groups online, hashtag hours on Twitter and hashtag challenges on Instagram that can really help you get noticed and get out there. Yes, these can be a lot of work, but they can give your accounts a real shot in the arm if you get involved. 5. Learn. There are some incredible podcasts, blogs and videos out there that you can read/listen to and enjoy for free, but the information they contain is worth a huge amount. Have a Google and get reading! This is a really stripped back guide to shine a light on the fundamental building blocks to social media. I’m very active on Instagram (@rheafreemanpr), Facebook (/rheafreemanpr) and Twitter (@rheafreeman), so do pop along and say hello if you’re hanging out there too!

Primrose Mini Bag. RRP: £185. www.fioriblu.co.uk

Cordonera Boot. RRP: £355. www.thespanish bootcompany.co.uk

HOW TO GET THE SOCIAL MEDIA LEG UP? (PART 2) Base Layer top. RRP: £40. www.aztecdiamond equestrian.com

Visit www.rheafreemanpr.co.uk • Twitter (@rheafreeman) • Instagram (@rheafreemanpr) • Facebook (/RheaFreemanPR)

t h e c t GASTRIC ULCERS V a W VETWATCH

It’s not just racehorses that get

astric ulcers or Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) was once seen as a condition exclusive to performance horses. Whilst it is true that studies have shown 80-100% of racehorses have squamous ulcers, further studies reveal around 50% of leisure and companion horses have glandular ulcers. So, what By is the difference? And what can we do to prevent them? Katie Kershaw MRCVS EGUS is a general term for erosion and ulceration of the stomach’s mucosa (lining). We can narrow this down into Equine Squamous Gastric Disease (ESGD), where the upper region of the stomach is affected, or Equine Glandular Ryder-Davies & Gastric Disease (EGGD), effecting the lower region. It’s Partners VETERINARY SURGEONS not uncommon to have both types in the same animal. www.ryder-daviesvets.co.uk

Tel: 01394 380083

What causes EGUS?

Squamous: This is usually due to splashing of stomach acid from the glandular region up onto the squamous mucosa – ultimately Squamous ulceration *

Photos courtesy of: *Ryder-Davies **Boehringer Ingelheim

too much acid in the wrong part of the stomach. Major risk factors include insufficient forage intake, often when large gaps are left between forage feeds (over 6 hours). Too much starch can also reduce the stomach’s pH, increasing the risk, as can water deprivation.

Glandular: A breakdown of this area’s defence mechanisms, normally designed to cope with high acid concentrations, can lead to ulceration, often present at the pylorus (exit) of the stomach. Persistently high levels of acid (such as when too much starch is fed) may influence the formation of these ulcers, whilst high stress may affect gastrin production and blood supply to the area. Stress can be physiological (eg. during intense exercise) or psychological. Risk factors here are still being researched but it is likely many issues contribute. There is no evidence that there is a bacterial cause, unlike Helicobacter pylori in humans.

Pylorus **

Clinical Signs: Varied – and not necessarily all! • Inappetence/fussy eating • Weight loss/poor body condition • Poor coat • Colic - especially repeat bouts • Changes in temperament • Reluctance to work/poor performance • Skin sensitivity – including girth and flanks

Diagnosis: As you can see the clinical signs are not specific to EGUS alone, so confirming the presence of ulcers is therefore required before treatment is given. Unfortunately, the stomach sits deep beneath the lungs, so the majority of it cannot be visualised via an external procedure such as an ultrasound. There are two reliable methods of diagnosis: (preferably) gastroscopy and (unfortunately) post-mortem.

Gastroscopy: The horse is starved for at least 12 hours (usually overnight is easiest) to enable visability of as A pylorus with areas of hyperaemia *

VET PROFILE much of the stomach as possible. The animal is then sedated and a long endoscope passed up the nose, down the oesophagus and into the stomach. After the stomach is filled with air and food particles cleaned from the walls, the lining is carefully examined for the presence of ulceration in both the squamous and glandular regions. We can grade the squamous lesions from 0 (normal) to 4 (severe). We don’t use a grading system for the glandular mucosa, instead preferring to describe location and severity.

Treatment: If only ESGD is diagnosed, the horse will be prescribed oral omeprazole paste for around 34 weeks initially. This is best done on an empty stomach and works as a proton-pump inhibitor to reduce the stomach’s acid secretion. If EGGD is present (with or without ESGD) then both omeprazole and sucralfate will be given for at least 4 weeks. Sucralfate is a mucosal protectant, providing a protective layer and stimulating mucus formation to create a barrier against the acid. Whichever treatment is necessary, it is important to implement management Poorly visualised lesser **

changes such as increasing the amount of forage, decreasing dietary starch, and reducing stress simultaneously. Follow-up usually involves repeat gastroscopy at the end of the prescribed treatment to ensure healing has occurred. It is important that owners report back any changes in behaviour and performance, so we can determine if the treatment has been successful. Depending on the outcome, your vet may extend the treatment or switch the horse onto a supplement designed to improve the acid balance.

Prevention: EGUS can return if management changes don’t occur. Work hard to reduce the risk factors mentioned earlier. Oil is a great alternative for horses that need more energy but can’t cope with starch.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Does pasture turnout reduce risk of EGUS? In theory yes, but only if your horse is consistently grazing throughout turnout. Does EGUS effect ridden work? We can’t be sure. Studies have shown that racehorses with squamous ulcers demonstrate Lesser curvature **

reduced performance, and it makes sense that a decreased appetite may lead to lower energy levels. Human athletes with a similar condition of their glandular mucosa frequently report heartburn as a symptom during exercise. Gastroscopy: will I know straight away if my horse has ulcers? Yes! The endoscope is attached to a video monitor, so you can see live footage and we can take videos and pictures to reference if required. Can’t I do a faecal test? Testing faeces for blood was initially thought to identify EGUS. Unfortunately, we now know this test isn’t reliable enough to be diagnostic. Isn’t EGGD just the latest fashionable diagnosis for poor performance? The truth is that we have only recently had long enough endoscopes to see all the way to the pylorus and other glandular areas of the stomach. I suspect in the past we may have turned these horses away to grass for a year to try to fix them, accepted that they were always grumpy and girthy, or given up on them as being incapable of performing to a high level.

Katie grew up in Norfolk, moving to Suffolk in 2012 to join the equine team at Ryder-Davies & Partners. She has a strong interest in internal medicine and geriatric care but works with a wide variety of horses from the Suffolk Punch and TB studs to companion ponies. She is currently completing a certificate in Equine Medicine and is a regional vet for Riding for the Disabled.

Duodenal wall **

NUTRITION

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOUR HORSE

DIGESTS HIS FOOD? ave you ever wondered what happens to all that food your horse is constantly trickle-feeding through his system? Most of it will be very fibrous as the horse is a herbivore and has evolved to utilise a high fibre diet, using bacterial fermentation in a highly developed large intestine. A horse will spend most of its time eating as it obtains its nutrients from coarse, fibrous forage which cannot be digested by omnivores. He will graze at his pasture or forage, biting through the stalks with his teeth which continue to grow to reflect the

effect of constant grinding of grass or dry matter containing high levels of silicon compounds. However, these days a horse’s teeth do not always wear evenly and will need regular rasping to remove sharp edges which can impair the chewing action. This is due to the modern day horse being fed a higher proportion of softer feeds such as cereals and having hours of chewing restricted, and this has led to a change in the way a horse grinds his feed over the years. In the horse’s mouth, the digestion begins. The food is chewed and this breaks the food down into smaller pieces which

A FIBROUS JOURNEY THROUGH THE EQUINE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM 26

can be swallowed and disrupts the hard outer covering of plant cells (cellulose), releasing the starches, proteins and other nutrients within. Saliva lubricates the chewed food and reduces it down. The enzymic digestion starts here although it is very small at this stage. The swallowed food is moved along the digestive tract by muscular contractions known as peristalsis. Because the horse is a trickle feeder, its gut is designed to receive small but regular supplies of food and this encourages the muscle contractions to continue. Problems can occur when horses

are left for long periods of time with nothing to eat as these contractions will then slow down and this can lead to serious digestive disturbances. The food is moved along and enters the horse’s stomach where digestive enzymes and strong acids are secreted which begins the digestion of protein and fat. A horse’s stomach is really quite small (the size of a rugby ball) and makes up only 8% of the horse’s total gut volume and its capacity is between eight and 15 litres, depending on the size of the horse. Optimum digestion occurs when the stomach is no more than two thirds full (a feed of 2kg for the average 16hh horse weighing 500kg) so dividing the hard feed(s) into smaller portions to feed more often is a good idea. This is particularly relevant for horses that are fed a high level of concentrates as this phase of digestion is important. For horses that are fed a high fibre diet, most of the fibre is digested in the hind gut rather than the stomach. If food continues to enter the stomach once it is full, the pyloric sphincter will open to allow feed to enter the small intestine. This is normal for the horse on a high fibre diet. For those on high concentrates, this trickle mechanism does not allow the food to stay long enough in the stomach for efficient digestion to occur. If intake is very great and rapid, the trickle mechanism is not activated and the stomach swells to beyond capacity. This distension switches off the

stomach function by inhibiting normal blood flow and neural activity. Fermentation of the stomach contents then occurs and gases are produced which further distends the stomach. This malfunctioning can be very dangerous and lead to disorders from mild colic to stomach ruptures and death. After about 45 minutes, the food will start to exit the stomach and enter the small intestine, which in a typical 16hh horse will be around 70ft and this is where the nutrients start to be absorbed into the bloodstream. As long as the quantity of food fed does not exceed the capacity of the small intestine, by now the starch and sugar will be mostly digested and the end products (mainly glucose) are absorbed

along with the amino acids (which are the end products of protein digestion). Fats and oils are emulsified and broken down into smaller droplets by bile from the liver. This is produced as required as the horse has no gall bladder to store bile. Vitamin and mineral absorption will also begin at this point. The food then passes into the large intestine which consists of the caecum, the large colon, the small colon and the rectum. Millions of beneficial microorganisms including bacteria, yeasts and protozoa are found here. These are the only organisms capable of producing the enzymes necessary to digest cellulose and other components of fibre. It is extremely important to make any changes in the

horse’s diet very gradually in order to maintain the balance of the gut microflora, as these are responsible for the production of some of the B complex vitamins and vitamin K. The end products from the digestible fibre, starches and sugar are volatile fatty acids which enter the bloodstream and are broken down to produce energy. Water resorption occurs and mineral and vitamin absorption continues. Metabolic waste from all other parts of the horse’s body are transported via the bloodstream to the rectum and together with undigested material, they are formed into faeces and voided via the anus… ..and that’s where your mucking out starts! www.horsehage.co.uk

HORSEHAGE HEADING FOR THE STATES!

Supplies of HorseHage will be heading out to the United States to be used by the British equestrian teams at the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games. It is one of the biggest sporting events in the world and takes place every four years. This year it will be held in North Carolina, over from 11th– 23rd September.

NUTRITION

Ulcer-Prone Stig...

Product News...

Photo: Majestic Photography

TopSpec Digestive Aid is designed to optimise digestive health and stimulate appetite in horses. TopSpec Digestive Aid contains vitamin B12 and high levels of a pure, protected probiotic yeast and a prebiotic MOS. It is particularly effective for horses that are working hard, on high concentrate/low forage diets, or stressed. It is ideal for use after antibiotic/worming treatments which can upset the hindgut microbial balance. www.topspec.com

n 2017 Lisa Wild had the news that her beloved 10-year-old bright bay ISH gelding, Stig was suffering from grade 4 gastric ulcers. With the help of her vet and a new diet including both Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet, Stig is now making excellent progress and is out competing again. Said Lisa: “I was first introduced to Speedi-beet and Fibre-beet when Stig was diagnosed with grade 4 ulcers after being scoped by the vet. The vet recommended both feeds as part of Stig’s new diet which he must follow for the foreseeable future. “Prior to being diagnosed with ulcers, Stig didn’t show many signs of having ulcers other than in his competition performance, his lack of condition (even though he would put weight on again) and also the frequency of bouts of colic he was experiencing. This prompted us to investigate further and the results of the scoping shocked us all, he had both squamous and glandular ulcers of which were at grade 4.” The results of Stig’s last scoping showed the squamous ulcers had completely healed and the glandular ulcers had decreased to grade 1. Glandular ulcers are much harder to treat and Lisa’s vet confirmed this might be the lowest they achieve but reducing the ulcers from grade 4 to 1 shows a dramatic difference. Lisa and Stig are currently competing at Novice level with British Dressage and have qualified for the Petplan Area Festival finals with many wins along the way too. www.britishhorsefeeds.com

EnteroZoo is a new innovative drug-free adsorbent gel, designed to maintain your horse’s intestinal health. It’s an oral gel suspension composed of organic mineral and purified water. It works by passing through your horse’s digestive tract, binding bacterial toxins and thereby helping to maintain a healthy gut. RRP: £12.72/100g tube; £34.99/450g jar; £18.99/10 x 15g sachets. www.enterozoo.co.uk

RRP: 1.6kg/£66.50.

Uls-Gard contains ingredients to soothe and coat the stomach, providing support. Uls-Gard Solution has all the benefits of the pellets and is ideal for using as a maintenance product and this can also be fed orally to foals with loose stools. www.equine-america.co.uk

RRP: 1Ltr/£29.99 (2 months supply for average horse); 4Ltr/£95.50.

Fibre-Beet has been awarded the Gastric Ulcer Feed Assurance Mark by the British Equestrian Trade Association and is the first and only soaking mash product to be approved, making it suitable for horses and ponies prone to equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS). The highly degradable fibre sources in Fibre-Beet provide optimum fermentation patterns to help keep the digestive system healthy. Fibre-Beet when fermented produces high levels of butyric acid, which aids the function of the cells of the gut wall, and low levels of lactic acid, making it an ideal alkaline feed. RRP is £12.65 - £13.60. www.britishhorsefeeds.com

NUTRITION

By Rosie King, Area Nutrition Advisor Baileys Horse Feeds

FEEDING FOR WEIGHT GAIN IN THE orse h e n o r p r e c l U aty Llbreri first contacted me for feed advice back in February 2017 about her sensitive but sharp ulcer prone horse Finn. Finn is a 16.2hh, 13-year-old Irish Sports Horse who Katy bought with the view to event, however she really struggled to find a feed that maintained his condition throughout the year and didn’t know what else to try. When I first assessed Finn, he was only a condition score of 3 with a weak neck, angular hindquarters and had an under developed topline; his weight fluctuated between 490-525kg which is well below the recommended weight for a horse of his size. He had already been scoped and diagnosed with grade 2-3 squamous ulcers and had undergone 9 months’ worth of veterinary prescribed medicine however this made little improvement on his weight. Katy also changed his daily routine to incorporate additional turnout and he has

Rosie King

now spent the last three years being turned out 24/7 to reduce the stress of being stabled. Assessing horses forage intakes that live out can provide challenging as it can be difficult to evaluate the amount of forage that they are eating on a daily basis. Although we know

Finn is getting plenty of forage in his diet as he has access to adlib hay in the field it is important to identify the exact amount. For a horse of his size and condition we would ideally like him to consume 3% of his bodyweight in forage as this will help increase his condition and help to maintain a healthy digestive tract. For horses that are prone to Equine Gastric Ulcers we would suggest feeding a high fibre diet that is low in starch. The problem with Finn is that he doesn’t have a great appetite and was easily over faced by large feeds which is often the case with many sensitive horses. The feed that Katy was using was high in fibre but was low in quality protein and overall digestible energy (calories). Taking all of this into consideration as well as his spooky and sharp temperament we decided to create a feeding regime that would keep the meal sizes small, high in calories and digestible fibre whilst still being low in starch and sugars to reduce the chance of digestive upset and to help maintain an even and trainable temperament. I recommended Re-Leve which Katy started to slowly introduce increasing to the recommended amount of 3kg a day, to help

increase the calories in the diet. Re-Leve is completely cereal free and contains highly digestible ‘Super-Fibres’ and oils along with quality protein sources for muscle development, cell renewal and repair. Re-Leve is also very palatable and has an encapsulated blackcurrant flavouring to ensure the fussiest of feeders receive their vitamins, minerals and calories on a daily basis. Another thing I suggested Katy to try was to feed a few different fibre sources in a cafeteria style to encourage his natural foraging behaviour. Slowly but surely Finn started to gain weight and condition in April 2017 he was 518kg and a year on he is now a condition score 5.5 and weighs 622kg. Katy cannot believe the difference in Finn from being such a hard horse to keep to now maintaining his weight well on just 2kg of Re-Leve a day with ad-lib hay. She also says she is now saving money by keeping his diet simple and doesn’t need to worry about him dropping weight in the winter. www.saracenhorsefeeds.com

mily King has partnered gelding Brookleigh since 2013 and together they achieved an amazing fourth place at their first 4* event at Pau, France, in 2015. They were nearing the end of a super cross country round at their first Badminton in 2016, when disaster struck and they fell. Brook picked up an injury which meant that he spent some time on box rest so his diet had to be adapted accordingly. Brook has always been hard to keep condition on and is prone to gastric ulcers so, even when in work, needs a diet which is high in fibre and oil and low in starch. While resting his calorie requirements were clearly reduced so while on box rest he was fed low calorie Performance Balancer, to which Outshine high oil supplement was added, along with some soaked FibreBeet. The balancer provided quality protein, vitamins and minerals yet negligible calories or starch. It’s important that a resting or injured horse still gets all these essential nutrients to support the healing process and the building up of internal reserves. Body tissues, like muscle, tendons and ligaments are made of protein so the

diet must supply the necessary amino acid building blocks to build and repair these tissues. The Outshine provided some additional slow release calories, again with a negligible starch content. Four cups of balancer per day were necessary for a horse of his size and bodyweight, while four to six cups of Outshine topped up his calorie intake. He was able to have ad lib hay and, to add interest and encourage natural foraging behaviour, Brook was given separate

Product News... Progest contains yeast products which aid the bacteria in the hind gut, optimising digestion and, therefore, increasing the nutrients gained from the food. RRP: 908g/£16.99. www.equineamerica.co.uk

New Equerry Cool Mash is an efficient quicksoaking mash for horses that need a low energy feed. Designed for horses and ponies in light to medium work Equerry Cool Mash is cereal-grain-free. It has low levels of starch and benefits from a ‘Non-Heating’ formula. Equerry Cool Mash contains highly digestible fibre sources including sugar beet, to benefit your horse or pony. The mash also includes yeast to support a healthy digestive system and added vitamins and minerals including magnesium. Equerry Cool Mash is available in a 20kg bag. RRP £10.95. www.equerryhorsefeeds.com

ON BOX REST:

BROOKLEIGH buckets of Alfalfa Plus Oil and soaked Fibre-Beet. Sixteen-year-old Brook is now back in work and being fed the recommended amount of high fibre, low starch Ease & Excel, in place of the balancer/Outshine combination, to meet his increased requirements for work and condition, while still ensuring starch intake is low. www.baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

AntiLam is a pelleted multisupplement designed to provide nutritional support for those prone to, being treated for, or recovering from laminitis. AntiLam is so palatable that it can be fed out of the hand to horses and ponies at pasture to provide vital nutritional support. www.topspec.com

NUTRITION

he manufacture of Speedi-Beet is a unique, patented process involving a combination of moisture and thermal treatment. As such, it shouldn’t really matter about the beet, should it? British Horse Feeds have taken beet pulp, currently a byproduct, and turned it into something special. Not only does Speedi-Beet soak rapidly and completely - and other branded products may claim to do so – but BHF is building a database to show how different its product is, compared to others on the world market. At British Horse Feeds we think it is massively important where our beet pulp is sourced and here we’ll explain why. The process of Speedi-Beet manufacture will provide a quick soaking flake, and will be a sanitised product as infra-red heating will neutralise bacteria, viruses etc. If we simply bought beet pulp on the open market,

we could not guarantee consistency of nutrients, purity of product and low environmental impact. It is critically important to British Horse Feeds to only use the highest quality beet pulp, we only source from the British Sugar factory at Wissington, who only work with local contracted farmers.

Beet Varieties and Geography There are many beet varieties available including genetically modified crops. GM crops, such as Roundup Ready, enable more aggressive chemical weed control programmes to be used. There are many factors that do differentiate between beets grown in different areas across the world. The UK does not grow, or process, genetically modified beets. Geographical locations can affect the heavy metal content of beets, but growing areas in the UK are amongst the lowest in the world.

In conjunction with the British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO), new varieties of beet are produced and recommendations for lines given. This ensures that planned varieties help reduce environmental impact, as traits such as rust and fungal resistance can be enhanced, reducing the need for fungicides. In terms of volume, the UK is a relatively small producer but produces the highest quality beet pulp on the market.

SPEEDI-BEET:

DOES IT MATTER WHERE THE BEET COMES FROM? 32

Growing Across the world beet is usually planted in spring and harvested from early autumn onwards. Beets are frost resistant and require a good supply of water to develop. Around 50cm of

rain over the growing season is required. In some areas of the world the water supply is short, especially in hotter climates, so irrigation is needed and the purity of the water used can be a concern along with the yield of the crop. In the UK, over 95% of beet irrigation comes from rainfall, making it as close to an ideal environment as is possible.

Harvesting Harvesters mechanically remove beet tops and dispense whole beets into transporters. In some countries a pre-treatment is used to desiccate green material (beet tops) to facilitate harvesting, although it is not used for UK beet crops. After harvesting it is common practice to store beets at the field side, awaiting transport to the sugar factory. The UK average distance is 28 miles. Delivery to Wissington is within 24 hours of harvest minimising any potential degradation or mould infestation.

Processing The extraction of sugar from beet is standardised worldwide. The beets are cleaned, sliced and flushed with hot water to dissolve the sugar. The sugar water (molasses) then goes on for further processing. Depending on the efficiency of process, and whether molasses is added back to the pulp, the sugar content of dried beet pulp can reach 21%. Typically, the sugar content of unmolassed beet pulp is stated as 7%, beet pulp for Speedi-Beet is guaranteed maximum 5%, one of the lowest.

Some countries also use pressing agents which can affect calcium analysis. Typically, UK beet pulp calcium is in the region of 0.8 -1.0%. Although these values do not impact nutritionally they do indicate levels of efficiency of production. In addition, Wissington, from where British Horse Feeds source their beet pulp, has one of the lowest environmental impacts of any sugar factory in the world. Apart from efficient extraction of sugar, Wissington also produces specialist sugars – such as raffinose – biofuels and functional fibres. Waste heat, CO2 and water are used to fuel greenhouses growing a quarter of the UK’s production of tomatoes. All this means that British beet pulp is the freshest, cleanest and least contaminated in the world. Its production has probably the lowest environmental impact of all regions. There are also some variations within the UK. The beet pulp sourced by British Horse Feeds, and processed by British Sugar at Wissington is the only product that has a guaranteed sugar level of 5% or less. In answer to our question, yes it does make a difference where the beet comes from. By using British beets, from dedicated sources, British Horse Feeds can guarantee the purity, quality and low environmental footprint of its product and, with assured analysis, the best and most consistent specification you can achieve. www.britishhorsefeeds.com

SUDDEN GRASS GROWTH?

‘TIME TO BE VIGILANT’ WARNS HAYGAIN

fter some much needed rain recently, our fields are once again looking fresh as the burnt grass begins to bloom. But what does this sudden growth mean for our equines? Having battled with burnt up fields and a severe grass shortage, the sudden downpours were a welcome change. But, this rain, particularly coupled with warm weather and lots of sunshine, has led to an increase in grass sugar content. The sugar content is in fact worsened after a lengthy drought making it of particular concern. While it can be really tempting to turn out as much as possible now, you must not change your horse’s routine too quickly. Grass sugar content is still at its highest at the hottest point of the day, before gradually declining as we welcome in the evening. The lowest point of sugar content will be in the early hours of the morning before it starts to slowly increase again. Therefore to ensure your horse’s health, continue to turn out overnight, well into the Autumn months. This is true even though our daytime temperate may only peak at 20ºC. When your horse is stabled during the day, continue to feed forage as normal. Abrupt daytime starvation due to the sudden grass growth is actually detrimental to your horse’s health as it causes fat stores in the body to be mobilised and enter the bloodstream - this is where the fat can damage the heart. Instead of limiting dry matter quantity, try encouraging the horse to spend longer chewing and choose a forage that has less calories per kg. The Haygain Forager Slow Feeder is great for stabled horses as it is the natural way to slow the pace a horse eats. The Forager’s regulator grid also ensures smaller bites of forage and increased amounts of chewing, which helps maintain a flow of saliva, acting as a natural buffer to stomach acid. Steaming hay can also be beneficial in ensuring sugar restrictions. As the grass sugar content continues to climb as we head into Autumn it’s essential that we monitor the sugar content in the forage we provide. Studies by Haygain have found that steaming forage actually reduces the Water Soluble Carbohydrate content. www.haygain.co.uk

NUTRITION

... Sponsorship news

eading Norfolk showjumping siblings India and Atiya Bussey have landed the role of Brand Ambassadors for leading supplement producer Feedmark. They will be working with Feedmark to help promote the importance of meeting the individual nutritional needs of horses following the launch of Formulate!, its new all-in-one bespoke supplement. India and Atiya Bussey grew up in Norfolk and their love of horses began from a young age. Their passion stemmed from their mother, who has spent most of her life around horses. While Atiya completed her first senior competition aged 11, India, started competing in BS aged 7. To date, India and Atiya have competed in both the UK and internationally. They aspire to one day compete in the Olympics for Team GB and will always look for ways to improve riding in order to get there. Atiya (13) recently claimed fourth in the Grand Prix in Holland, which is a huge step up for Atiya, with her first competition abroad. She has also competed in Fontainebleau for the Longines FEI European Championships 2018 for Team GBR for the Children on Horses Team, where she secured a double clear in the Nations Cup and was placed sixth on the final day. India (17) was recently selected to go out to Lamprechtshausen as an individual in the juniors (U18) section with her very talented 7-year-old horse, Goldenboy. Her biggest achievement to date is winning a team silver medal at the European Championships for Children on Horses. In the forthcoming months, both girls will be competing at the British Showjumping National Championships at Stoneleigh, with Atiya in the under 16s and India in the under 21s. Both girls will also compete at Lier (Azelhof) International CSI** in Belgium and Hickstead, The All England Jumping Championships at the end of the month. www.feedmark.com

MYCOTOXIN

MICROS M

ycotoxins can occur on growing, harvested or stored cereal and forage crops. Invisible to the naked eye, these toxic chemicals are produced by some types of mould growth under certain environmental conditions. Generally these moulds are referred to as being either ‘field’ (Fusarium and Endophyte toxins) or ‘storage’ (Penicillium and Aspergillius) in origin. One of the key difficulties in identifying risk is that mycotoxins can be present in feed or forage without the presence of mould. Equally, not all mould growth indicates the presence of mycotoxins. Mycotoxin poisoning has the potential to suppress the immune system and cause a wide range of conditions, ranging from sub-clinical symptoms, such as general lack of form, hypersensitivity and loss of well-being, through to possible liver damage. Long term exposure to mycotoxins can, therefore, prove debilitating and leave the horse vulnerable to sickness or disease. Horses are exposed to mycotoxins via feed materials and grazing, as well as (but often over-looked) bedding.

Keep all water and feed buckets clean

Acute mycotoxicosis (mycotoxin poisoning) is rare in the UK and the more likely scenario is chronic exposure to low levels of multiple mycotoxins that presents an ongoing challenge. Mycotoxicosis has the potential to suppress the immune system and has been associated to a wide range of conditions, from general lack of form, hypersensitivity and loss of wellbeing, through to colic, liver damage and even death. High risk groups include horses whose immune system may already be under pressure, such as broodmares, youngstock, veterans, performance horses, poor doers or sick and convalescing horses. How to prevent exposure to mycotoxins Suffice to say, all horses encounter mycotoxins on a daily basis and by following a few

S UNDER THE

COPE... good management practices, you can go some way to reducing, but never eliminating, exposure. Always feed good quality cereals, compound feeds and forage from a reputable source; store in a cool dry place and do not use beyond the use-by date. Big bales of haylage should be well wrapped with at least eight layers of plastic and open bales should be used within two to three days. Mycotoxins occur in damp, humid and drought conditions and are more prevalent on mature crops, so hay is more prone to a higher level of contamination than haylage. Be aware of harvesting conditions and check that hay is or was fully dried before baling and that it has been stored in a dry, wellventilated environment. Practice good hygiene and keep feed, water buckets and feed bins clean. Incidence of contamination has been found on feed and water buckets, as well as feed bins that have not been emptied properly before refilling. Keep bedding fresh and clean as

bedding is fast becoming noted as a potentially significant source of mycotoxin toxicity, and some believe that contaminated straw may cause allergic skin reactions. As contamination is unavoidable, one option would be to include a mycotoxin adsorbent, such as Alltech’s Forage Guard in the horse’s diet. Forage Guard is a natural feed material produced from yeast cell wall and micro-algae, which specifically binds mycotoxins and removes them from the gut. The active ingredient in Forage Guard has a substantial and broad-spectrum capacity to rapidly bind multiple mycotoxins. Its binding capacity is related to specific carbohydrates found on micro-algae and on the inner cell wall (glucans) of a selected strain of yeast. Mycotoxins bind to these carbohydrates, reducing

Check that hay is or was fully dried before baling and store in a dry well-ventilated environment

absorption of the mycotoxins into the body, and the carbohydrate-mycotoxin complex is excreted from the digestive tract. The bonds between mycotoxin and carbohydrate are stable across a wide pH range, meaning the mycotoxins remain bound throughout the gut. Additionally, Forage Guard has a

low effective inclusion rate. This means only a small amount of Forage Guard is required to bind many mycotoxins. A 5kg tub of Forage Guard retails at £39 and contains a 100 day supply. www.lifeforcehorse.co.uk

Photo: Jon Stroud

WORMING: PART1

arlier this summer horse health experts raised concerns over the implications of tapeworm treatment options following

UPDATE

BEST PRACTICE BY WESTGATE LABS

the news that Equitape is to be withdrawn from sale in October 2018. In a turn of fortune for horse health, a specials manufacturer

dedicated to the veterinary industry has stepped up to fill this gap. A new praziquantelonly equine product will be available to vets from August

POSITIVE PROGRESS AS SPECIALS MANUFACTURER STEPS UP TO PRODUCE SINGLE CHEMICAL TAPEWORM OPTION FOR USE UNDER THE CASCADE SYSTEM 2018. Consultant vet to Westgate Labs, Carolyn Cummins MVB PhD MRCVS commented, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Retaining a species-targeted

KBIS BRITISH EQUESTRIAN INSURANCE JOINS FORCES WITH WESTGATE LABS

treatment option is a fantastic outcome for sustainable worming practice and will go a long way in helping us to tackle the major welfare threat of wormer resistance. Evidence based control combining regular testing and targeted treatment is the best chance we have of protecting our horses from endemic disease caused by parasite infection both now and in the future.”

the recommended selection through spring, summer and autumn. In winter when a proactive treatment for the possibility of encysted redworm is advised then a moxidectin + praziquantel would be preferred treatment or alternatively a praziquantel only wormer followed two weeks later by a moxidectin only wormer or 5day fenbendazole where there is no resistance known. Horse owners should contact Horse Worm Treatment their vet to obtain the wormer if Prescribing Options required, which we understand with the availability of a will be competitively priced. praziquantel-only While the prescription worming product limitations may make this Where it has been confirmed wormer less convenient for the that treatment for tapeworm is consumer to purchase, if we needed following a positive return to what is right for the tapeworm test then the horse, this compromise should approach to other parasites be indefinitely outweighed by (most usually redworm and our ability to successfully roundworm) should also be manage parasite control with considered by conducting a the limited numbers of drugs worm egg count. available. For if we have to stop If treatment for just tapeworm is keeping horses we’re all very indicated then a praziquantel much worse off. only wormer would be one of the preferred choices of your vet. Evidence based control Regular testing should form the Alternatively, a double dose of centre of any programme to pyrantel can be recommended determine whether or not a for administration if; • ascarids are also present (more worming treatment is required to keep drug exposure to a likely in foals or yearlings) minimum. Worm egg counts or should be conducted every two• the redworm population in three months (with frequency question is known to not be depending on risk) and resistant to pyrantel. tapeworm tests performed every Where treatment for redworm is six months to monitor infection indicated at the same time as levels in healthy adult horses. tapeworm treatment, then an Lester & Matthews (2013) ivermectin + praziquantel identified that: “Faecal egg combination wormer would be

counts can be used to identify the likely 15-20% of horses that need worming to reduce worm egg shedding and can reduce wormer use by up to 82%”. EquiSal Tapeworm test data shows that fewer than 27% of horses tested require treatment for tapeworm (Austin Davis Biologics) and Lightbody et al (2017) demonstrated that using EquiSal Tapeworm in a targeted worm control programme reduced the use of tapeworm wormers by 86%. For more information and a free downloadable version of the ‘best practice’ table please visit www.westgatelabs.co.uk

Westgate Labs are pleased to be able to offer KBIS customers 10% off across their entire online range including all of their worm test count kits.

Westgate Labs is an independent laboratory and does not sell wormers, they are diagnostic service providers providing expert evidence-based control advice. References: Lester, H., Matthews, J.(2013) Equine. Vet. J. 46, 139e145. Lightbody, K. L. et al (2017). Equine Vet J, 50: 213219.

WORMING: PART1

Use of EquiSal Tapeworm saliva testing for best practice worm control - By Austin Davis Biologics

HORSE’S MOUTH!

STRAIGHT FROM THE

is to reduce the number of wormers your horse receives. International show jumper, Tim Stockdale, has been very

successful in reducing the number of wormers used on his yard. Prior to using EquiSal Tapeworm testing, the horses

were receiving the recommended twice a year treatment for tapeworm. During the last 4 years they have

1 Lightbody, K. L. et al. (2016) Vet Clin Path, 45: 335–346

r Corrine Austin looks after her horses using ‘best practice’ methods that are core to basic horse care/health. After years of carrying out worm egg counts to determine whether her horses needed worming for redworm or roundworm, and conducting expensive blood testing for tapeworm, she set out to find a way to test for tapeworm that is easy to carry out and not costly. As an experienced scientist she set up the Austin Davis Biologics laboratory and researched diagnostic methods to test for tapeworm. Out of this research, Corrine and her team discovered that you could detect tapeworm infections by measuring antitapeworm antibodies in saliva. The method proved to be very accurate and reliable, diagnosing all pathogenic tapeworm infections (validation published in Veterinary Clinical Pathology journal1). The test is similar to a blood test but uses saliva instead which can easily be collected by horse owners and returned to the EquiSal laboratory in Northamptonshire for testing. Corrine’s own horses are routinely tested and since developing the test in 2013, they have only been given praziquantel (anti-tapeworm wormer) when EquiSal saliva testing has shown they are infected with tapeworm. Worms are becoming increasingly resistant to wormers as a result of the drugs being overused, or used routinely without proof that they are required. The best way to prevent worm resistance

Ama’s EquiSal Tapeworm results over time

conducted EquiSal Tapeworm testing, only 8 horses have needed tapeworm treatment, meaning just 8 doses of praziquantel have been used on Tim’s yard instead of 160 doses if they had continued with routine treatment! Tim tells us, “I take my horses’ welfare very seriously and this professional scientific approach to diagnosing worm burdens is the way forward”. The yard has a much lower risk of resistant tapeworm, so when a horse is confirmed as having an infection, Tim can be confident that the wormer will be effective. Using the EquiSal Tapeworm saliva test, it is possible to repeat the test 2-3 months after worming to determine if treatment has been effective and whether an additional dose is required. This has been invaluable for Corrine’s horses as after many years of having low diagnoses, Ama’s saliva score increased, indicating she had become infected with tapeworm. Ama received praziquantel-based wormer and her saliva score reduced over a period of several weeks. However, before reducing to ‘low’, her saliva score increased significantly suggesting reinfection. An additional praziquantel dose was

administered and the saliva score reduced to below the treatment cut-off and remained so. If follow up testing not been conducted, Ama would have maintained the tapeworm infection until the next routine testing and the cycle would continue. Corrine is often asked about tapeworm control by horse owners, and a common theme after the first test is surprise that their horse has an infection, despite carrying out regular worming. In these cases, once or twice a year treatment has not been effective at maintaining a healthy balance and horses end up with constant infection, broken briefly by the worming dose, only to become reinfected at a later date. In these cases it is important to know what you are dealing with and whether to target doses more often to break the tapeworm life cycle and therefore reduce the horse’s risk of reinfection. This strategy, together with good pasture management, can help to prevent constant infection and enable the horse owner to better manage tapeworm infections. The company’s vison for EquiSal Tapeworm is to provide the test to horse owners as cheaply as possible. To do this, the small family run company invested in robotic systems which have

transformed the laboratory to a high throughput operation and keeps overhead costs to a minimum. The cost of the test includes a saliva collection kit, return postage of the sample and laboratory testing. Corrine’s team are also heavily involved with research into horse worm infections including tapeworm life cycle and diagnostic tests for other important horse worms, including an encysted redworm test in collaboration with the Moredun Institute. Collaborator Professor Jacqui Matthews emphasises, “Frequent (including unnecessary) drug use has been shown to speed wormer resistance, which decreases the effectiveness of the few chemicals that we have

to treat serious worm burdens in horses. We must ensure that use of wormers is carefully considered and, preferably, administered after a positive diagnostic test.” EquiSal Tapeworm testing is easily incorporated into your horse’s worm control programme. Simply test every 6 months at a time when you would normally consider treating for tapeworm. Saliva collection kits are available from veterinary practices and SQPs. Visit www.equisal.com for more information or to see a list of stockists.

HEALTH & WELFARE

THE GOOD FELLAS!

esearchers at McMaster University have finally found conclusive evidence that bacteria residing in the gut influence brain chemistry and behaviour. Our gut is home to about 1,000 trillium bacteria which all need to live in harmony. Every second of every day our gut bacteria is performing many functions that are vital to our health. The good bacteria extracts energy from our diet, protect us against infections and provides nutrition to every cell within our body. Any upset in the harmonious gut bacteria community which lives within us can cause anything from mild depression, anxiety, digestive issues, to life threatening conditions. Our quality of life is determined by the quality of our cells and gut bacteria! But what disturbs the harmonious bacteria within the gut and what can you do to restore balanced brain chemistry and behaviour? Antibiotics - they not only kill the bad bacteria in the gut, they kill off ALL the

BY SAMANTHA HARDINGHAM bacteria, including the good stuff! Birth Control Pills - similar to antibiotics they can annihilate all good bacteria in the gut. Processed Foods - a diet rich in beige, industrialised foods that are high in processed flours and sugars, feed the harmful bacteria and destroy the healthy flora growing within us. Chlorinated Drinking Water not only will chlorine keep your pool spotless it’ll keep your gut spotless as well! Go get yourself a water filter…. The good news is it’s easy to restore the good bacteria. Adding fermented foods to your diet, just a couple of teaspoons a day, encourage the growth of healthy bacteria. Eating leeks, asparagus and artichokes will do the same. Drinking kefir (makes sure it’s from goats milk) or kombucha will also restore the natural balance whilst improving your mood, digestive system and your brain health. A happy gut = a happy mind!

VETS APPLAUD NEW METHOD: EQUINE PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT

new method for equine performance assessment has been tested on vets. Conducted by Dr Sue Dyson, Head of Clinical Orthopaedics at the Centre for Equine Studies at the Animal Health Trust in Newmarket, the study assessed how accurately vets may be able to use an ethogram developed by Dr Dyson, to assess pain in ridden horses. The study was conducted at World Horse Welfare’s centre in Norfolk recently. Twenty horse and rider combinations, together with a range of professional practitioners, volunteered their time to support the study, which has the potential to transform the welfare of ridden horses. Initially the horses were assessed by Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT) physiotherapist, Jo Spear. The back was examined to check for any areas of muscle tightness or discomfort. Society of Master Saddlers (SMS) Saddle Fitter, Liz Suddaby, checked the fit, placement, balance and suitability of each horse’s saddle. The horses were then given a 15 minute ridden warm-up before executing an 8-minute purpose-designed dressage test. During the dressage test a team of 10 equine vets, selected from 40 volunteers, scored each horse for the presence of 24 behaviours that may reflect pain. The tests were filmed so that Dr Dyson could make a comparison between her own real-time behaviour assessments and video analysis and so that the rider skill level could be scored retrospectively by Dr Anne Bondi BHSI. Dr Sue Dyson continued: “The behavioural differences between the lame and non-lame horses in the study were very apparent. I am currently cross-referencing analysis of the volunteers’ results with me as the Gold Standard. Early indications show that by giving vets a clear understanding of pain associated behaviour markers they will be better able to recognise pain-related behaviour in ridden horses, which may reflect lameness, and to communicate potential performance problems more effectively with their clients.” An overview of this study will be presented at the Saddle Research Trust Conference in December.

NOW AVAILABLE:

FIRST-EVER COMMERCIAL DIAGNOSTIC TEST FOR VIRUS

diagnostic test, able to identify a deadly virus believed to be present in up to 10 percent of horses, is now available for the first time for horse owners. New Equine Virus (NEV) was first identified in 2013 by Isabel Fidalgo Carvalho. Isabel went on

to found equine biotech firm Equigerminal to develop an accurate and commercially viable NEV diagnostic test that can be used by vets, vet labs and horse owners. After many years of research and testing, the diagnostic test is now launching to the equine

community. NEV - the equine equivalent of HIV - is often misdiagnosed or hidden by other diseases that induce similar symptoms, like anaemia and neurological issues in horses. It is most commonly confused with the Swamp Fever virus and Equine Herpesviruses.

Still bothered by bugs?! New Ruggle-It Fast is an environmentally friendly fly and bug repellent that really works. Quick and easy to use, Ruggle-It Fast comes in a concentrated formula with a free sponge to apply it with. All you have to do is simply add tap water, shake and it’s ready to use instantly. www.karenruggles.co.uk

LOVE OF HORSES HELPS YOUNG MAN’S RECOVERY

amie Pye, a young man who works at Redwings Horse Sanctuary in Norfolk, has spoken out about how his love for horses helped him recover from an eating disorder that dominated his life for years. Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses that affect an estimated 1.25 million people in the UK. Jamie’s illness began when he suffered bullying at school. He received treatment as a child but when he turned 18 he struggled to find treatment due to the lack of adult services. Jamie got a place at a local animal studies college and while studying there he contacted Beat, the UK’s eating disorder charity. He became an Ambassador for the charity and said that volunteering helped him build his confidence. “Beat knew that throughout my experiences I always had a love for animals. They had heard of a lady who ran a HopeThruHorses, where she treats people for a variety of behavioural and psychological conditions with the use of her horses.” Jamie says, “Now I am in recovery I can see the positives of being there, so no matter what, I need to fight to stay there because it is worth it.” www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/support-services/helplines

REAL

LIFE

STORY

etplan Equine has launched a new campaign which highlights the love that people have for their horses. The campaign focuses on real, emotional stories of Petplan Equine customers. www.petplanequine.co.uk/ horsestories One of the short films brings to life the story of Evie and her horse Valentine. Valentine is a huge part of Evie’s life, describing Valentine as her best friend. One night Valentine came down with colic and Evie was faced with the fear of losing her beloved horse which is every horse owner’s nightmare.

Have you got a story to share about your horse? Share your #HorseStories on Instagram or @PetplanEquineUK on Facebook!

STABLING & BEDDING

5 Signs

THAT IT’S TIME TO REPLACE YOUR STABLE WINDOWS

uring this dry spell it’s a good time to review the quality of the timber windows in your stable and replace any elements before the next winter arrives. Scotts of Thrapston, leading manufacturer of timber stables, has some suggestions of things to look out for on your yard. These will only take you a few moments to check: 1. Is the timber window frame badly chewed, going rotten or

Scotts louvred stable windows

showing signs of damage? 2. Is the glass broken, falling out or not laminated for safety? Non-laminated glass should never be used for stabling. Laminating the glass stops shards from entering the stable, if unfortunate enough to be shattered. 3. Do your windows open or have a vent action? If not, your horse is not getting adequate ventilation and this will impact

Hopper stable window

Scotts provides a range of premium doors and windows. They are built to complement both brand new buildings in timber or brick and block as well 4. If you have integral grilles, are as period stable blocks in brick they bowing or rusting? or stone. You can choose to 5. Do you keep your horses in colour match with your during the day in hot weather? If property’s paint work for a so, it is a good idea to add extra cohesive look to your stable and windows or top doors to create home. cross ventilation in the box and Visiting the Scotts website also to give your horse different allows users to review the perspectives to look out on to. various items, along with Scotts of Thrapston can supply a providing comprehensive technical details for each standard range of stable product and an estimated price. windows and doors, for your The estimated prices enable you stable development or refurbishment, as well as a host to budget for future purchases, making it easy to plan a project of other accessories. Their over time to fit your cash flow extensive product range can be and circumstances. purchased to standard Contact a member of the Scotts specifications or manufactured Sales Team, on 01832 732366, to your own individual to discuss or confirm your requirements. requirements and they will then If you are looking to refurbish provide you with a total price. existing timber stables or want www.scottsofthrapston.co.uk to upgrade the quality of finish, their respiratory health. This is significantly important if your horse has specific issues like COPD.

Product News... A total biocide against viruses, bacteria and fungi, Defence 7 is designed for use in all equine yard areas. Defence 7 is on the approved list of disinfectants by DEFRA.

Stablezone Antibacterial Bedding powder is sprinkled under or over bedding, helping to keep bedding drier and reduce odours. www.animalhealth.co.uk

ith more than 10 years working in National Hunt Racing, David Jeffreys became increasingly aware of the need to keep yards and stables spotlessly clean and disease free. David, together with business partner Tom Fillery, identified the need for an antimicrobial coating in the horse world after seeing firsthand the effects of micro-organisms lying dormant on stable walls on a horse’s performance. Explains David: “It is so important to ensure stables are as clean and bacteria free as possible to protect and safeguard both the overall environment and also the

STABLE BIOSECURITY –

TIPS AND ADVICE horses and ponies housed in them. “A product such as Stable Shield Antibacterial Paint provides an extra barrier, hence reducing the risk of horses getting ill. “With diseases easily spread, we should be doing everything we can to minimise the risk to our yards and our horses. By adopting a regular cleaning regime combined with an antibacterial paint, owners can

relax in the knowledge their yard is better protected. “To ensure that the antibacterial stable paint works to its maximum effectiveness, we recommend that stables are correctly ventilated and cleaned regularly, dirt cleaned from the stable walls and power washed at least every six months, then disinfected monthly.” www.stableshield.co.uk

WIN! WIN!

COMPETITION!

25 BALES OF PHILLIPS BROTHERS HORSE BEDDING DELIVERED TO YOU!

Phillips Brothers are offering one lucky winner a delivery of 25 bales of horse bedding! Phillips Brothers produce a range of premium quality wood shaving and straw bedding from their farm in Suffolk. Established in 1894, they have been providing wood shavings throughout Suffolk, Essex, Norfolk, and Lincolnshire for years. www.phillipsbrothers.co.uk Prize delivery within the East Anglian region only.

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

MIN. DEL. JUST 25 BALES THROUGHOUT EAST ANGLIA

The Great Outdoors utumn is both the beginning and the end of the grassland year. It is the beginning because it is the ideal time of the year to reseed worn out paddocks. It is also the end because the grass stops growing by late October, early November and hibernates until spring. It is important to keep maintaining your paddocks so that they remain in good condition; autumn jobs such as reseeding, mowing and harrowing the paddock will help the grass grow well and keep it tidy.

Paddocks also need time to recover after so much dry weather. Oversowing to poached or damaged areas stops weeds invading these areas. Grass seed can be spread by hand, drill or a fertiliser spreader. Early September is the ideal time to fertilise and reseed. The young grass has time to establish and grow before the weather conditions begin to worsen. When reseeding and oversowing the seed mixture should be carefully chosen. The ideal grass to provide grazing for horses and ponies is not the same grass that farmers might use for

silage. The seed mixture should provide a short, dense sward that will cushion the horses’ feet when the ground is hard. It should also be palatable and remain thick at the bottom. Said Jonathan Cox of Suregrow: “If the preparation is right then the maintenance and upkeep of

your paddock is easy. “Don’t think your fields and paddocks will recover without the right maintenance and care. When thinking towards the spring and wanting to have your paddocks in the best of health it is key to carry out the work this autumn.” www.suregrowuk.com

SADDLERY & TACK

DISCUSSED I

SECURITY IN THE SADDLE: regularly compete at showjumping and want more security in the saddle when jumping, can you offer advice on what to look for?

The Society of Master Saddlers replies: The key to success whether competing at a local or international level, is making sure you have the right saddle that fits the horse and is comfortable for the rider. A jumping saddle has been specifically designed to provide a close contact fit to help the rider sit close to the horse and with their weight balanced. It is important for a rider to feel their horse working underneath the saddle in order to get the best out of them. This level of communication is greatly enhanced by a single flap jumping saddle. Showjumping requires the rider to be athletic and in balance with their horse at all times.

Jumping saddles are designed with knee and thigh blocks to help support the rider’s leg position, and the forward cut flap helps assist balance in the saddle. When deciding on which saddle to buy make sure it is one that is designed to allow maximum performance from the rider as well as the horse. As ever, designs vary in style and colour and there are some saddles that are made using a single or mono flap system that allows the rider to have a closer feel around the horse. As with all saddles we recommend that you use a Society of Master Saddlers’ registered qualified saddle fitter, so that you are guaranteed that they are fully qualified, professional and have over three years’ experience to get the best possible fit. Don’t forget to try out the saddle over a few fences as that is what you will be wanting it for!

DONATE YOUR

UNWANTED TACK...

Always pay great attention to the saddle’s flocking, it needs to provide cushioning to help reduce trauma to the back when jumping, also with the rubber composition panels likewise. The forces involved with a big horse taking off, stretching over a fence and landing on the other side are tremendous, so the saddle must sit well and minimise the effect of jarring to the horse’s back. If comfort, style and longevity are what you are looking for a saddle made from top quality leather is just what you need.

Remember cheaper leather can have a tendency to be slippery and not provide a secure seat with good grip. Choosing to buy a bespoke saddle will help ensure it is fitted by trained experts who understand your horse’s needs. Compromise should not be an option when deciding on your new showjumping saddle. Ideally the saddle should maximise your partnership with the horse and balance comfort with style and performance. www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

making it the UK’s largest horse sanctuary. You can support the rescue charity’s work by donating your unused or preloved tack and rugs! All donations are gratefully received by the Redwings team, especially it’s four-legged

...AND HELP HORSES IN NEED!

id you know that a simple rummage through your tack room could provide vital help for horses in need? Redwings Horse Sanctuary rescues neglected and abandoned horses from across the country, giving them a safe place to live, and is currently home to over 1,500 residents –

Continued overleaf....

SADDLERY

Q&A

MASTER SADDLER LAURENCE PEARMAN ANSWERS READER QUESTIONS

: Should new items of tack be 'broken in' gently to avoid any pinching or rubbing, or should they be OK to ride in 'normally' straight away? When fitting items of new tack it is advisable firstly to check the fit is correct before putting on any preparations which may alter the colour if the item needs changing. That done, then take all the components apart and using a

good quality balm / conditioner apply sparingly with a cloth / sponge to both sides of the leather to render it to become more supple. If the leather is not cared for it will become dry and brittle and will crack; the leather needs to be protected before use as it come into contact with sweat, heat, sun and very damp conditions. Also with the more supple leather it will be more comfortable for the horse.

Always store your tack at room temperature.

: I would like to sell my saddle, but I am unsure of its size. How do you measure it? A saddle is measured from the centre of the head nail which is at the front of the skirt to the centre of the cantle (the measurements can vary between makes).

: I have three girth straps, why are there three and which two should I use? There can actually be more than three girth straps each side which would consist of a point strap at the front and a balance strap at the back.

If there is only three each side then it is best to use a front and back combination, but again this depends on the girthing for the individual horse, as it can also be asymmetrically used, according to the demands for each horse. : What are the benefits of using a five point breastplate? A five point breastplate is a means of keeping the saddle in the correct position, whilst allowing freedom for the horse to move. It also works on keeping pressure away from the withers, and attachment of a martingale. www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

SADDLERY & TACK

emember your horse can feel a fly land on his skin so even the smallest aid from your hand or leg should produce a response if your horse is switched on and ready to respond.

residents – from it’s elderly ponies and donkeys who need the extra comfort of a cosy rug in winter, to the horses who are training to be ridden so they can find loving new homes as part of Redwings’ rehoming scheme. In fact, the need for tack – such as bridles – is increasing. Redwings is expanding it’s rehoming operations, with a brand-new training centre currently being built at it’s Caldecott visitor centre, near Great Yarmouth in Norfolk. By helping more rescued horses and ponies to find new homes outside the Sanctuary, Redwings will be able to bring even more horses in need to safety and into the charity’s care. Any donated items that cannot be used within the Sanctuary are sold on through fundraising sales at its visitor centres - and with Redwings being funded 100% by donations from the public, every penny really does count! Anne Galloway, Redwings’ Gifts in Kind Manager, said: “When clearing out your old tack, don’t forget about Redwings! “Donating your unwanted items

is a great way to recycle reusable equipment, and every penny raised from our tack sales goes towards the care of our rescued residents. Also be sure to keep an eye out for a tack sale near you as you too could also pick up a bargain for your own horse!” Before donating your tack and rugs, make sure they are clean, in a good condition, reusable and are either bagged or boxed. Items can be dropped off at your nearest Redwings visitor centre – Redwings Aylsham (near Norwich) or Redwings Caldecott (near Great Yarmouth) – or you can call 01508 481000 to discuss delivery options. All of Redwings’ tack and rug sales are advertised through it’s social media channels so make sure to keep an eye on their Facebook (/RedwingsHorseSanctuary) and Twitter (@RedwingsHS) pages for all the latest dates. www.redwings.org.uk

How can I tell if my horse is not listening? There is nothing more frustrating than an unproductive schooling session. There are many different ways in which your horse will demonstrate that he is not listening. “He will either switch off, shut down or carry on regardless,” added Harriet. However your horse displays his lack of concentration, there are two main options to regain his attention – adjust the volume of your aid or surprise him with a transition he isn’t expecting. Adjusting the volume Adjusting the volume means making your aids clearer and more obvious or making a quieter more subtle signal.

“If they don’t respond the first time of asking, you might need to ‘turn up the volume’ of your aids, this could be by using a stronger and more obvious aid or even using a touch of the whip.” Riders that get into the habit of using their hand or leg with every stride are in danger of becoming ‘background noise’ which is also a common reason why a horse doesn’t listen to its rider, as it is unable to distinguish between the accidental aids and the actual aids. If you have used your leg five times by accident and then the sixth time you actually meant it how is your horse supposed to tell the difference? On the other hand, if you continue to let your real aids go unnoticed, your horse may think this is what you want as you have failed to correct him. “Lazy horses tend to under react to aids and sharp horses tend to overreact, so the key is to adjust the volume of your aid depending upon how lazy or

Riding Lesson

Get the most out of your

head of any lesson, particularly a private lesson, it is important to have an open dialogue about what your short and long term riding goals are. This might be to learn how to canter if you have only just started riding or to aim for your first competition. “Talk to your instructor about your goals, so they can plan out your lessons and monitor your

development. If you feel unable to communicate in this way, it is time to change your instructor, find someone that you are

THE PROFESSIONALS sharp your horse is,” explained Harriet. “With a lazy horse use a normal volume aid first and then use a quicker, louder or more obvious aid if you do not get the desired response. Sharp horses need a slower, smaller or quieter aid first, and then the aid can get gradually louder if the desired response isn't achieved. The volume of the response should match the volume of the request.” Surprise Transitions A surprise transition is where you abruptly change the pace with little or no warning. This can be an 'emergency stop' type feeling, or it can be a sudden sprint. Surprise transitions are really good for horses that zone out or switch off, but should be used with caution on sharp or sensitive horses. Transitions within the pace are great for judging responsiveness and for adding variety; the transitions can be obvious or

HERE EVENT RIDER AND TRAINER, HARRIET MORRIS-BAUMBER OFFERS ADVICE ON HOW TO ENSURE YOU ARE ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS TO GET A POSITIVE RESPONSE.

Is Your Horse Listening?

subtle. “Using transitions within the pace are a key component to my training and schooling. The more adjustable the horse is, the more control I have. Whether this is for dressage, showjumping or cross country.” Variety is the Spice of Life Successful schooling comes from using variety but try not to get stuck into a set routine. Harriet recommends variety, but

BRITISH EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION ELITE RECREATIONAL COACH, ANDREW STENNETT, PROVIDES ADVICE comfortable with, who you can be honest with, especially when things are not quite going to plan,” said Andrew. During the lesson, listen to your instructor and if you don’t understand their instructions, speak up and ask. Riding instructors can use a lot of technical jargon that novice riders can find difficult to comprehend. After all, how is someone that has never ridden

before supposed to recognise that ‘change the rein’ means go in the other direction? All instructors have their own style of teaching so be openminded to new suggestions . They might have discovered a tried and tested formula that helps riders easily understand particular elements of learning to ride. “It is so important to think positive and believe you can do

all still within your own training system to keep your horse focused and to make the most of your session. Try to add in some different exercises such as riding a square, serpentine, and half circles of various sizes. Mix in some lateral work too as this is really good to check the response side to side, as well as forwards and backwards. If you tend to just go round and round the edge with only the odd circle or change of rein, changing

direction every ten strides will be a shock and your horse will not know where you are going next! Ask yourself - how many strides was it since I did something different? Change is the key to unlocking your horse’s attention, if he is not listening, ask a different question or change the way in which you request his response. www.harriet-morrisbaumber.co.uk

it, horses are not psychic but they do feed off people’s emotions and tend to know if you are feeling nervous. Try to give it your best effort and don’t be a passenger, especially in a group lesson. Being asked to work independently within a group provides an ideal opportunity to see how effective you are as a rider,” added Andrew. At the end of each session, spend a couple of minutes summarising what has been achieved and what your aims are for the next lesson. As is the

case whenever you are learning anything new, you will have good days and bad days, and it is just as important to evaluate what went wrong as it is what went right. On a lighter note, Andrew also advises that riders turn up at the right time and on the right day for their lesson and to remember that horses are not machines and they do not always conform to the book, as they haven’t yet learnt how to read! www.grovehousestables.co.uk

Ride like... TUTORIAL

IN THIS ISSUE WE TALK TO EQUITHÈME SPONSORED INTERNATIONAL DRESSAGE RIDER GABY LUCAS, ON...

Photo by Richard Neve

WITH A YOUNG HORSE

Photo by Katherine Rynor

LEG S YIELDING

Photo by Katherine Rynor

GABY LUCAS

young horse to understand the correct canter lead. The movement will also help with suppleness and assist with the initial straightening for other more advanced movements. Leg yielding is a movement seen in more advanced dressage tests however it is a great exercise to use during a schooling session at home for horses at all levels. The exercise is used to supple the horse throughout his entire body; the horse must move both forwards and sideways at the same time whilst remaining parallel with the outside track. The Exercise The horse will cross his front and Leg yielding can help to develop hind legs over each other during your horse’s lateral suppleness the forwards stride. and is one of the most basic of When attempting the lateral movements. The movement, try to work from the movement is particularly useful three-quarter line. Start by riding to young horses, helping them down the three-quarter line with to develop their ability to move the feeling that your horse is away from the leg effectively positioned straight. Repeat this whilst ensuring that the rider on each rein so that your horse uses the correct aids and leg does not become stronger on positioning to influence the one individual rein. It is advised horse. that you perform this exercise no You can introduce leg yielding to matter what the level of the a young horse as soon as they horse as it takes him back to the have established a basic walk basics of listening to aids and and trot. The exercise helps the teaches him not to anticipate the uffolk based Gaby has a wealth of experience competing for Great Britain in the Pony, Junior and Young Rider European Championships and is now progressing up the levels in her dressage career. Zante, a 14-year-old Jazz gelding, is her main horse who she competes at PSG level. On top of Gaby’s busy training schedule with David Trott, she also teaches, organises and presents demonstrations as well as schooling horses for clients.

Photo by David DeBere Photo by Duncan Jobson

sideways movement every time they turn off the short side. The next step is to ride a few straight steps down the threequarter line and then head towards the corner by turning onto a straight diagonal line. Remember to turn the correct

way, you should be travelling the opposite way to when you turned down the three-quarter line. Make sure that your horse is comfortable with this stage on both reins before you progress. Next, start to encourage your horse to step sideways, away from the three-quarter line whilst still travelling forwards. You must point your horse’s shoulders onto a diagonal line from the three-quarter line, making sure they are in the correct position. Your horse should then be encouraged to fall towards the outside shoulder, whilst learning to move away from an inside leg aid. Once your horse understands this element of the leg yield movement, the exercise can be developed into a true leg yield. A true leg yield will see your horse’s front legs crossing slightly ahead of the hind legs whilst still travelling forwards. You should see a slight flexion at the poll, away from the direction your horse is travelling, allowing you to just see the nostril and eyebrow on the inside rein.

GABY’S Gear Favourite

The Equit’M Air Microfiber Helmets are a perfect design to provide comfort and protection as well as style. Thanks to the air system which is composed of three air cushions built-in at the back, it allows air to be inflated and deflated until the hat fits the rider perfectly, making the range unique. Ensuring the hat is strong the outer shell is made from polycarbonate, ABS composite and EPS skull cap which provides protection against shocks.

Remember to use the correct aids making sure that they are clear for the horse to understand whilst remaining discrete. As the rider, your inside leg should be positioned slightly behind the girth, and your weight should shift to your inside seat bone away from the direction of travel, this will allow your horse to move freely away from the leg. Your outside rein should be guiding the direction of travel and preventing the shoulders from ‘running away’. Your outside leg should also be positioned behind the girth, however it will be slightly further back than the inside in order to stop the horse leading with his quarters which is a common error when performing the leg yield. Remember to apply your inside rein lightly and don’t forget it is to be used as the last aid, to ask for the slight flexion. When the horse is content with accepting the leg yield off a straight line, the next step is to progress the exercise onto a circle. To begin with, ride your horse on an eight-metre circle and then push out in leg yield

onto a 20 metre circle, before spiralling back down to the small circle. This will help to move the ribcage away from the inside leg. Once both you and the horse are confident with this you can progress by asking your horse to pick up canter on the circle after a few steps of leg yield, this will help to achieve the correct lead. Leg yield can be used in walk, trot and canter. It is a fantastic movement for improving suppleness and flexibility and ensuring that your horse is off the leg, before moving onto other lateral exercises. Remember that it will take time to become established at leg yielding. As a rider you must ensure you give your horse clear aids and feel confident at being able to feel what your horse is doing underneath your seat in order to be able to correct the horse appropriately if they become unbalanced. For the horse to become proficient at the leg yield movement he must build up his suppleness, strength and elasticity.

Air vents are situated around the helmet to provide good air flow for the rider’s comfort. For inner freshness, the hat has a lining made from memory foam padded mesh that can be removed and washed. The hat is covered in Chamude microfibre which is available in a choice of colours including Black, Navy and Chocolate for a classic finish. The hat also features matching matte coloured inserts, side piping and air vents to finish the look. Available sizes include S/53-54, M/55-56, L/57-58 and XL/59-60. RRP: £229.

Conforms to the ASTM F1163-15 standard with SEI Certification, as well as PAS015 2011 and VG1 01.040 2014-12 standards.

www.equitheme.co.uk

Ride like... TUTORIAL

IN THIS ISSUE WE TALK TO HORSEHAGE-SPONSORED FORMER BRITISH TEAM VAULTER, ROSIE HOWARD, WHO NOW PERFORMS WITH HER OWN TEAM OF HORSES UNDER THE NAME ‘GALLOPING ACROBATICS’, AT SHOWS AND EVENTS ALL AROUND THE UK, AS WELL AS TEACHING VAULTING TO ALL LEVELS OF EXPERIENCE. SHE EXPLAINS WHAT YOU NEED TO START OUT IN VAULTING 52

is mostly avoided.”

Equipment “The three vital elements to start out with are a vaulting roller, back pad and sponge. “The pad sits on the horse’s back and can be made from any number of materials but I prefer super high-density foam as it’s extremely lightweight, shock absorbing and moulds to the horse’s back well. “My pads are 3cm thick, and even when I stand on them, they barely leave an impression, so I know the horses’ backs are not going to feel any pressure points. “I have my sponges made by my local furniture company that cuts foam to any size. They are very simple – just a long piece of

ALL ABOUT...

VAULTING!

Photo: Adam Francis

he first and most important requirement is your horse and, of course, his temperament. He needs to be confident in himself but also have confidence in you as a rider and to trust that you will never hurt him. “This is important because as a vaulter you will be moving into positions not only on his back, but his rump as well as his neck. This trust has to be built up

Paces “A steady canter is essential but any horse can achieve this with training, Rhythm is vital and you ROSIE HOWARD need a horse who can maintain a canter on a circle without leaning in, rushing, cutting sides off the circle, etc, and this can be learned gradually and so a calm, steady and built on gradually. horse is needed and he should “Vaulting at walk is done a lot in never be afraid of you. order to build up confidence in “Conformation-wise, a broad both horse and vaulter and to back will be more comfortable to learn new moves, as well as vault on as the more space there practising known moves and is up there on his back and neck, freestyles. the more moves you will be able “Trot is rarely used although it to do. A strong, solid horse with can be beneficial for a few a wider base of support will training exercises for the make your moves easier to hold, experienced vaulter. It tends to rather than a thin, narrow type make for a bumpy ride with of horse.” inexperienced vaulters and this isn’t good for the horse’s back so

Photo: Andy Moore

you can just tack them up with your kit. I prefer to put my actual tack on the barrel as it is then more like vaulting on the horse. When I teach on the barrel I can pick one end of it up and rock it as if it were a (very steady!) cantering horse – good practice for vaulters…and a good strengthening exercise for me!”

foam that sits on the pad, but underneath the roller and extends around the horse’s girth to offer protection and padding from the roller. Mine are made with soft foam on top so the roller sinks into it and doesn't slip, with chip foam underneath to offer more support and solidity against the horse. Both sponge and pad need to have washable, removable covers on them – my mum is a brilliant seamstress and makes all of mine! “Rollers come in all shapes and sizes. I prefer Meinecke rollers which I have shipped over from Europe. I use them constantly and my oldest one is nearly 13years-old and still going strong. Like saddles, they can cost as much as you want to spend, but they do occasionally come up for sale second-hand. Your roller will also need a girth and side reins -

Roller, sponge and pad

Pad

Clothing “Unlike riders, vaulters don’t need any special clothing at all to begin with. All you need to wear these can usually be bought as a is relatively tight fitting clothes package with the roller if buying that you can move and stretch in. Jodhpurs can be quite new, but don't forget them if restrictive sometimes so leggings not! are preferable. Soft soled shoes “Your horse will also need a such as plimsolls are ideal to bridle and the person lungeing will need a lunge line and whip. If start with and vaulting shoes you haven't got anyone to lunge themselves are very easy to buy your horse, you can teach him to in this country and only cost about £15 - £20. work on a circle made up with “No hats, back protectors, cones and rope, so he is off the gloves, boots, etc are needed – lunge. It takes a bit more work vaulting is all about softness and on the training side but is actually far safer than riding! ultimately means you can go it “The main aim of vaulting is to alone! be so soft as to not influence the “A barrel is not essential but is horse’s way of going at all. incredibly helpful. Mine is made Vaulters are taught how to fall from an oil drum on legs that (from the barrel onto a crash mat means you can practise away to usually), so you understand how your heart’s content before to land safely away from the getting on your horse. Some horse.” groups also hold barrel For further information on this competitions so horses don't growing sport please visit have to be involved. Barrels can www.britishvaulting.org either have a metal handle welded on to imitate a roller or

Barrel

Rosie’s team of horses are fed on High Fibre HorseHage and Mollichaff HoofKind Complete. For further information on feeding your horse or pony, please contact the HorseHage Helpline on 01803 527274 or visit www.horsehage.co.uk

SIMON GRIEVE BECOMES AMBASSADOR

nternational event rider, Simon Grieve, regularly competes at CCI4* level at Badminton, Burghley and Pau and can be found contesting both British Eventing and FEI events around the UK throughout the season. However, a recent altercation with a car led to talks with Equisafety and Simon agreed to become an Ambassador for the brand. “Myself and another rider were hacking down single-track road,” says Simon, “I heard a car coming so we pulled into a lay-by, but unfortunately as the car passed, my horse spooked into it’s path. “I hit my leg on the car and the horse hit his shoulder, but luckily we were okay as was the driver. It wasn’t until we arrived back on the yard, checked the horse over thoroughly, that I began to run over the what-ifs.” Simon continues: “I was wearing hi-vis, but working alongside Equisafety, I hope to encourage drivers to pass wide and slow, and educate riders that hi-vis should be worn at all times of the year” www.equisafety.com

SEIB Trailblazers Champio REPORTS

SEIB Series a Resounding Success

here was an air of festival at this year’s Championships as friends and families came together from all parts of the UK to celebrate their equestrian sport of choice. SEIB Trailblazers Championship is recognised as a major event in the UK equestrian calendar with riders winning their ticket to the championships throughout the year, gaining qualification at one of over 60 official Trailblazer qualifying venues across the country.

First up was the Dodson & Horrell dressage weekend, forty competitions with placings first-tenth accumulating points which determined over the two days of competition the Champion and Reserve Champion of the six Championships. “To win is amazing!” said Beth Davies winner of the Dodson & Horrell Junior Prelim, “I’ve worked towards this since last year.” Amy and Magic Mike claimed first and second in the Senior Prelim Championships. “Magic Mike is 15-years-old and an amazing horse, he tries so hard and is so giving,” said Amy. “Shocked,” said first time competitor at Trailblazers Maisy Elliot as she described her Junior Novice Championship win with King Alfred Moon. The Junior Intro Championship went to Lexy Chambaud and her 8year-old palomino mare Destiny who she has been riding for two years. “I’ve adored it here, and would love to come again,” said Lexy. Following a four year gap Gayle King returned to Trailblazers and claimed the Senior Elementary with Kingthistle Darcy. “It’s a lovely show and so well run,” commented Gayle. “It may be perceived as an expensive championship to come to but you really do get fantastic value for money, excellent Judges, an amazing environment, you are hard pressed to find another arena which is so well dressed. Every single penny is well spent here.” Showing and Working Hunter Championships saw an array of horses and ponies who picked up winning points on Continued overleaf...

Left - right: Gillian Miller, Nicky McKenzie and Jessica Yeung

ongratulations to Jessica Yeung, winner of the inaugural SEIB Unsung 51at Hero Award for Dressage Trailblazers Championship 2018, the presentation took place on the first day of the SEIB Trailblazers Championships at Stoneleigh Park. The award has been introduced by SEIB Insurance to recognise the achievements and contributions given by the support team behind so many Trailblazers competitors. SEIB Trailblazer Championships has been an emotional and truly amazing journey for Jessica Yeung and Gillian Miller. Jessica Yeung and Gillian have been firm friends for over 16 years, their joint love of horses secured their friendship. However Jessica truly stepped up to the mark when Gillian was diagnosed with breast cancer following the birth of her first child. It was a

particularly aggressive tumour and Gillian started chemotherapy immediately, staying in isolation for two weeks sadly unable to see her new born baby. Following months of chemo, followed by surgery and radiotherapy, Jessica supported Gillian taking her for daily treatment, appointments with the “wig lady” and helping Gillian to stay positive and make the best of an awful situation. During Gillian’s breast cancer treatment doctors found a lump on her kidney which turned out to be cancer. Once again Jessica was a huge support to her friend. This illness was particularly poignant as Jessica’s younger brother had suffered with kidney disease for most of his life and sadly passed away. “Jess kept me positive through some of my darkest days; she knew when to make me laugh and when to tell me to stop

nships 2018 moping about!” said Gillian. The friendship continued to the point when Gillian was ready to buy her horse and Jess helped her view prospective candidates, luckily the second horse matched the blue print. “Not surprisingly Jess suggested I qualify Twinkle for SEIB Trailblazers Championship 2018; she has supported me throughout the qualifiers and gave me the boost that I needed to compete,” said Gillian. “I love Gillian to pieces, she is such a good friend and for her to reward me in this way is unbelievable,” said Jess on her receiving her SEIB Un-Sung Hero Award. Jess then went on to qualify her own home produced youngster and so this dynamic duo have enjoyed the journey to this championships, as they always have - together.

ongratulations were also in order to Katy Gillibrand who has been presented with a special award ‘Against All Odds’ at SEIB Trailblazers Championships. SEIB’s Inaugural Un-Sung Hero Awards are the brainchild of SEIB’s Nicky Mckenzie, overwhelmed with the unprecedented response from competitors the Judges were immediately prompted to choose a third winner. Katy has truly battled against all odds to compete at this year’s championships and was nominated by her mum Sue Hegarty. Katy was very much looking forward to qualifying for SEIB Trailblazers Championships 2018, but late last year she became very poorly. Following many tests Katy was diagnosed with advanced secondary cancer - without anyone being aware

that she had primary cancer. Diagnosed as a cancer of unknown primary it was hoped that the gruelling treatment would at least halt or slow the progression of the cancer. On the Friday before Christmas 2017, Katy started her treatment, eight hours of intense chemo every three weeks. Not to be deterred, Katy began training as soon as she began to feel better, through the colder months wrapped in layers of clothes and woolly hats to cover her thinning hair - she never gave up. Her horse Co Co and her son Donta helped, and gave her the strength and incentive to get up in the morning. Katy tirelessly entered and competed at each of her Trailblazers qualifiers; she achieved her goal, through her hard work, inner strength and

ongratulations also to Keith Jago, winner of the inaugural SEIB Un-Sung Hero Award (showjumping). Following a serious riding accident in July last year Julia’s friend and partner, Keith, immediately drove to her assistance arriving at the same time as the ambulance. Julia sustained significant injuries, punctured lung and multiple broken ribs which needed to be plated and spent some time in a critical care unit. During that time, and although not ‘horsey’, Keith took over the day to day Keith Jago is Julia Drummond-Dunn’s ‘Knight in care of Julia’s horse whilst she entered a five Shining Armour’. month period of convalescence. From the Julia’s house as she wasn’t able to return start Keith mucked out, fed, watered, dealt home unless there was someone there to with vets and blacksmiths - even moved into help.

gritty determination and qualified for this summer’s championships. The battle with her cancer is ongoing but for the moment it is under control and the symptoms have subsided. Katy is strong, brave and dedicated ‘against all odds’ she thoroughly deserves her place at this year’s SEIB Trailblazers Championships.

“Keith gave up his pass times and hobbies to care for me as I couldn’t walk, lie down or take care of myself,” said Julia. Qualifying and riding at SEIB Trailblazers Championships 2016 had been a memorable experience for Julia, who had entered for the 2017 championships prior to the accident. Looking towards the prospect of riding once more, Keith gently encouraged Julia not to rush her riding. “Keith watched the first time I rode - well here I am again at the SEIB Trailblazers Championships 2018, due to my knight in shining armour.”

REPORTS Continued from previous page...

Championship, while Olivia Hubbard and her coloured pony, Portland Gypsy won the Albion Junior 95cm. Albion Junior 105cm Championships went to 16-year-old Georgie Marriott and her white fell pony Smokie who she has owned for 4years, a fitting way to end their career. The combination from Lincolnshire qualified at Hill House Equestrian. “It was a very technical course but he excelled in there and I’m really proud of him” said Georgie. The trip from Essex proved well worthwhile for 16-year-old Freya Samuel-Smith and her rescue pony Blue Cross Flannagan, celebrating their final year in juniors by winning the Albion Junior 85cm Championships. The 8-year-old rescue pony was produced by Freya and won both rounds, “I’ve brought him on myself and it’s a real achievement to be here and do so well,” said Freya, “This is the third year I’ve competed here, the second year I broke my nose so Combined Training is growing more popular covering two disciplines dressage and showjumping - dressage in the Royal Arena the nerves have been quite high!” with its superb grass surface and then into the main arena for their Melanie Widdows and Carbonado Joe won the Albion Senior 65cm Championship on their third attempt at SEIB Trailblazers jumping phase. Championships. While the Albion Senior 75cm went to Milly Gillian Hasberry from Leicester won the Combined Training Preliminary Pony 65cm Championship with her home bred 7-year- Rodman and Alekto M another first time visitor to SEIB Trailblazers Championship, “I’ve owned her for just under a year and thought old Connemara St Flannans Graienne. Sophia Jones and her Welsh Section D Harry claimed the Combined Trailblazers would give us something to aim for,” said Milly.” Carrie Moore reclaimed the Albion Senior 95cm Championship Training Novice Pony 75cm Championship. Sophia and Harry have following a two year gap, this year taking top honours with Princess been together for four years. Regular visitors to the championships, 12-year-old Sophia Marston Cruise. “My main goal this year was to qualify for Trailblazers, so to actually win it - this mare just exceeds all expectations!” enjoyed a successful weekend riding two 6-year-olds and claiming A combination who qualified at Summerhouse won the Albion Combined Training Preliminary Horse 65cm Championship with Senior 105cm Championships - and it was Nicola Bartropp’s first Solitaire. “It was amazing a great experience and really fun, we’ve visit to Trailblazers, “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it, I’ve been riding this had her since a yearling and great experience for her,” said Sophia. mare a year, we started at 90cm and only recently stepped up to Shirley Boraston and 18-year-old Chardonnay won the Combined 105cm,” said Nicola, “there’s a big atmosphere here and she was a Training Novice Horse 75cm Championship on their first visit to little nervous to begin with but as the weeks gone on she’s been SEIB Trailblazers Championships. “Everything about this really good and everyone in the collecting ring have been great championship has been amazing and my lap of honour was just which has helped a lot.” lovely - I’ve never done anything like that in my life!” Jessica Fewkes and her 5-year-old mare Judith top honors in the Top honours in the Combined Training Elementray Horse 85cm Albion Seniors on Ponies 75cm Championships. went to Amanda Kisiel and Princess Summer. A section D who surely would have topped a best turn out won the Albion Show Jumping Championships rounded up a week of Albion Senior on Ponies 85cm Championship with Lucy Greenfield. competition at SEIB Trailblazers Championship, run on a points To add their achievement Lucy had a baby just four months prior to system which determined the eventual fourteen champions. the championships and still managed her qualification! Katie Bradburn and Webbswood Jack claimed this year’s Albion Alexandra Taylor and Fantastic Miss Fudge are regular visitors to Junior 65cm (12 years and under). SEIB Trailblazers Championships therefore winning the Albion The Albion Junior 65cm Championship crown went to a delighted Senior on Ponies 65cm was a particular thrill. “I’ve wanted to win a Daniel Williams and Jack, owned by Linda Davies who bought Jack at a sale for £80, as 6-month-old but turned out to be a 4-month- sash since I don’t know how old!” old. SEIB Trailblazers was a truly enjoyable championships which is continuing to grow in stature. All those competing agreed they Only her second visit to SEIB Trailblazers Championship and Izzy Armstrong and her bay mare Salsa claimed the Albion Junior 75cm arrived as competitors and left as friends. day one and day two with the winners of the fourteen In-Hand, sixteen Ridden and seven Working Hunter Championships going forward to be judged for the overall Supreme Champion and Reserve Champion in each section. Liz Bain and her grey hunter Just Tim claimed Supreme In-Hand Championship on their second visit to the SEIB Trailblazers Championships. “I’m thrilled with the win,” said Liz, “it’s the perfect championship for us to compete.” Ava Collinson and Ruston Randolph were crowned Supreme Ridden Champions on their second visit to Trailblazers. “Ava was so excited to come back to Trailblazers this year it’s been so much for fun this year and to take Supreme Championship - Ava hasn’t come back down to earth yet - she’s still on cloud 9,” said Ava’s mum.

Diamonds Are Forever “He’s a once in a lifetime horse, and we’re enjoying every minute with him,” said Oliver. “He’s really at his best when there’s a big crowd and he just goes up another gear.” The Hoods are now hoping he will become the first horse to win the Supreme three times in a row. “Without question we’ll be aiming to come back and win again next year,” Oliver added. In reserve with 28 points was Robert Walker and Jill Day’s Saracen Horse Feeds Supreme Hunter champion, View Point. The De La Hey Family Supreme Pony Championship then followed, and this time it was Melanie Stanford’s Highland stallion Benbreac of Croila who took top spot, with Matthew Cooper riding. Benbreac of Croila, the winner of the BSPS Heritage Mountain and Moorland victor, and Moluccas Bengal Beauty, the Leeman Family BSPS Supreme

Photo: Mark In Time Photography

Alice Ellison heads the Horseware Bronze League Semi Final

Oliver Hood and Diamonds Are Forever

Show Pony Champion, both finished on 25 points so had to ‘ride off’ for the title. In the end, the 11-year-old Highland’s rousing gallop got him the nod from the Judges. “He’s an absolute pony of a lifetime, and we bought him unhandled straight from the hillside in Scotland,” said Gemma Stanford, who is the BHS Director of Horse Welfare and the daughter of the pony’s owner. “He’s had an incredible in-hand career and now he’s having an incredible ridden career too.”

lice Ellison booked her place at Horse of the Year Show with victory in the Horseware Bronze League Semi Final at The College Equestrian Centre, Keysoe in Bedfordshire, with Britney IV. A total of forty-two competitors chased after the muchyearned for seven Horse of the Year Show tickets on offer with twenty-three producing initial clears over coursedesigner Dave Conway’s 12-fence course to get one step closer to their goal. A further ten fell by the wayside in round two to leave thirteen for a hotly-contended jumpoff. It was Alice Ellison’s day. Cambridgeshire based Alice found all the shortcut options on Sacha Ellison’s 12-yearold Indoctro daughter Britney to gallop ahead and win by 0.49 seconds.

Photo: Copyright Julian Portch

he British Horse Society Supreme Horse Championship at Hickstead went to Diamonds Are Forever for the second year in a row. Twelve months ago, show producer Allister Hood took the title, and this year it was son Oliver who piloted Annabel Jenks’ 9-year-old gelding to take the overall honours. Diamonds Are Forever picked up his supreme championship ticket in Friday’s Saracen Horse Feeds Supreme Riding Horse Championship. He has now been crowned champion Riding Horse for three years running, as well as twice winning overall supreme. The three Judges - Badminton Horse Trials 1990 winner Nicky Coe, former show producer Jane Crofts and Adrian Charley, owner of Townfields Saddlery – awarded Diamonds Are Forever 29 out of 30 to put them top.

Photo: Sian Hayden

sparkles for a second time

The Les Squibb Winter 128 cms Championship - Izabella Rogers and Whinney Lass.

unior showjumper Izabella Rogers from Chelmsford has won The Les Squibb Winter 128cms Championship at Hickstead’s Longines Royal International Horse Show. Although Izabella didn’t ride the fastest round, she was the only competitor to jump a clear round to win the class, partnering Nicola Rogers’ Whinney Lass.

REPORTS

Essex's Claudia Moore

helps Team LeMieux Ponies win European Team Gold!

riday 10th August saw the British Pony Team, competing as Team LeMieux, take the Team Gold at the Pony European Championships at Bishop Burton. The Brits came into the team competition in a strong position after two riders returned home with clears whilst the other three combinations collected four penalties each. This left GB sat in equal fourth with Germany, just behind the Netherlands in third on two penalties and France and Ireland in joint first on zero penalties. The first round shook up the leaderboard with just seven riders able to produce a clear and three of those clears came from the British camp, a result which left GB in pole position ahead of the second round getting underway. This was a position that the Brits were to retain. The trailblazer was 15-year-old Shaunie Greig from Aberdeen on board Casino Royale, a 15-year-old bay gelding owned by Anne Greig. Shaunie and Casino Royale brought four penalties forward to the team competition after having an unlucky pole at the final

fence, but they proved to be the perfect pathfinders for Great Britain when they secured an immaculate double clear. Claudia Moore, aged 13, from Brentwood, Essex was next into the arena for Great Britain with Elando van de Roshoeve, a 14-year-old bay gelding owned by Katrina Moore. The previous day this combination delivered a foot perfect round to return home with a

...And individual bronze!

Photos: Helen Revington

laudia Moore added an Individual Bronze medal to her tally at the Pony European Championships. This result also sees her become the youngest Brit to win a Pony European Championship medal. Claudia secured her medal aboard Elando van de Roshoeve. After the first three rounds of competition that were held across the Thursday and Friday of the Championships, Claudia and Elando van de Roshoeve were sat in equal fifth after having accrued just four penalties. A total of twenty-nine started out in the individual final and

Claudia got her medal campaign off to a great start when she delivered an immaculate clear in the first round. She was unfortunate to pick up 4 faults at the first part of the combination in her second round, but such was the strength of her previous performances, Claudia found herself in the jump off for the Individual Bronze medal alongside Romane Orhant from France. The Individual Gold and Silver medals were already secured by Ingemar HammarstrĂśm from Sweden and Max Wachman from Ireland which left Claudia and Romane to go head to head for the final podium place.

Romane was first to go in the jump off and he finished on eight penalties in 52.73 seconds. It was then Claudiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s turn to enter the arena and she proved to be brilliant under pressure when she returned clear across the finish line in 50.34 seconds, guaranteeing her the Bronze medal. Talking after the medal ceremony, a delighted Claudia

clear in the bag and they emulated this in the first round of the team competition. An unfortunate pole down in the second round saw this pair return home with four penalties. It was Perdita Digby, aged 15, from Dorchester, that was the third rider in and she piloted Kayleighs Star, a 13-year-old coloured mare owned by Lady Sophie Digby. Perdita picked up four penalties the previous day and it was an eight penalty finish in round one of the team competition and a four penalty finish in round two. The anchor for the British team was Nicole Lockhead Anderson, aged 16, from Aberdeenshire with Gangnam Style II, a 9-year-old bay gelding owned by Claire Lockhead. Nicole got her campaign off to a great start the previous day when she provided the fastest clear round of the day. She then produced yet another clear in her first round and came into her second round knowing that the Gold medal already belonged to Great Britain. Nicole and Gangnam Style II took the course in their stride and secured another clear round, which left them in equal first individually. Joining her teammates on the podium was Hannah Barker, aged 13, from North Yorkshire with Ammanvalley Santino. Hannah carried eight penalties into the afternoon after picking up four penalties apiece in her two earlier rounds. She then came back into the arena for third time determined to deliver a clear and duly achieved this after a fantastic accurate round. Great Britain took Gold on eight penalties ahead of Sweden and France who took the Silver and Bronze medals respectively. said “Winning Gold on Friday just felt unreal. It was my first time at a Championships and to win a Gold is something I had never imagined. It was just so special and surreal. I woke up this morning knowing that I had a possibility of a medal but when I had one down I thought I’d lost the chance so was devastated. “When I found out I had the chance to jump off for the Bronze I just knew I had to give it everything I could as it could be the only opportunity I ever have. I went into the arena knowing that I really had to jump clear and when I did it was just incredible. To have won a team medal and then to win an individual medal was just icing on the cake. When I came out

the arena mum and dad started crying, they were so emotional. I didn’t join them in the crying as I think I had cried myself dry on the Friday!” Chef d’Equipe Clare Whitaker reflected on a successful Championships, “Claudia had to get round with 4 faults or less and she showed maturity beyond her years. It’s difficult for anyone when you are competing at this level with medals at stake and for her to achieve it at just 13-years of age at her first championships is incredible. It’s been a great championships for us having also won Team Gold. The team were brilliant not only in their riding but also in keeping their cool and pulling together.”

Kirs tin & Pand ora

Jess & Ro bin

EXCEPTIONAL MOMENTS OF THE MONTH CAPTURED

By Sophie Harris

Alongside events I also do portrait photoshoots. Here are a couple of my favourite photographs from shoots this year. Kirsten and Pandora - A partnership who have overcome a number of obstacles but as I'm sure you can see from this photograph it has only made their bond stronger. Jess and Robin - Jess bought Robin as a project pony to sell on, he never left… www.instagram.com/seh__photography/ www.sehphotography.co.uk www.facebook.com/SEHphotographyUK/

Endurance Festival

uston Park, Suffolk welcomed 580 horses and ponies from 33 nations over three days of International and National competition on 19th August. Day one of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum UK Endurance Festival saw 194 riders taking to the tracks in CEI1* 80km, CEIYJ1* 80km and CEIYJ2* 120km classes. There was a notable British success for Sophie Moorhouse riding Crystal Wissam (Sam) in the CEIYJ1* 80km who scooped second place in both the ride and the Best Condition competition. Sophie (15) from Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire said: “Ride plans and tactics in this sport need to be flexible as lots of things can change throughout the event, but I wanted to start with the main group and maintain a consistent pace during the race. Sam has such great presentation times and I could use this to my advantage at the vet gates. I think his presentation times reflect how happy he was with how we were riding and with the course. The way he went out on the last loop (in fourth place) made me realise that we could possibly catch the two horses in front of us. “Riding into the finish and seeing the flags and venue lying in front of us is a memory I won’t forget.”

British Showjumping REPORTS

“It’s a really nice place and it has a lovely set up; I really like it!” - Izabella Rogers

n the British Showjumping Pony Silver League 138cm & Under Final there were six clears out of the starting field of nineteen. It was a fast and furious jump off with tight turns and tricky lines. There were only two double clears with 10-year-old Izabella Rogers taking the win after a superb round in 39.40 seconds on the experienced Shaman Sundance. The pair have only been together for 11 months and this is Izabella’s first Championship. Despite her young age, Izabella who is based in Chelmsford is a seasoned campaigner who won the Les Squibb Winter 128cm Championship at the RIHS with the only double clear.

Photo: 1st Class Images

ssex based showjumper Danielle Westlake stormed into the lead to take the Pony Bronze league 148cm & Under title after winning the All Horse Magazine 80cm Pony Open. Aboard the dun mare, Caramel Twist, Danielle was last but one to go in the nine pony jump off. Taking a risky tight turn to the fourth fence made all the difference as she came round the turn to the final fence to steal the lead from Belle Garrigan riding Icaris W. Danielle commented: “It’s just amazing! To think that we nearly didn’t come because it is such a long journey, but it has definitely been worth it. It’s been such a good show and I couldn’t have asked for anything more.” Catching up with second placed rider Belle from Wrexham, she commented: “I did think that we had done it but I am still happy with second place. Herby is only 5-years-old so he is still quite young.”

Photo: 1st Class Images

Photo: 1st Class Images www.1stclassimages.com

National Championships 2018

At Stoneleigh Park

here were 12 riders out of 30 starters who found the key to the first round of the Pony Silver League 148cm & Under Final. Going fourth in the jump off, Charley Hamilton and Castlebaldwin Golden Arrow set a fast clear in 44.53 seconds, forcing the following riders to take risks but many paid the price of a fallen fence. In the end, it was Courtney Young and her 6-year-old Neil 55 who rose to the challenge and stopped the clock at 43.44 seconds. “I’ve only had Neil since just before Christmas. He was bred by the Platt family and had basically no mileage so I started him off slowly and he has turned out to be very bold and just loves his job. I can’t thank Nicole Rogers enough for buying him for me!” Courtney has already qualified Neil for Horse of the Year Show in the Pony Foxhunter Championship and picked up another HOYS qualification after taking fifth place in the Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Masters with Bacardi III. “I’m really excited for HOYS, it’s a great show and the atmosphere is amazing. I’ve actually got three ponies qualified in the Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Championship as well as Neil 55 and Zucan V in the Pony Foxhunter Championship.” Courtney is based in Wickford, Essex and is accompanied by her multi-tasking mum. “Mum is both my trainer and groom, she is amazing and I wouldn’t be doing all of this if it wasn’t for her.”

Photo: 1st Class Images

t was a brisk start to the day in Arena 3 on Day 4. Suzannah Engelmann took the Senior National Club 90cm Championship title riding 14-year-old Lissin Rocket. Suzannah, who is from Cambridge, won the jump-off in a time of 30.96 seconds and explains how she is no stranger to BSNC: “We have competed here for the last two years in the Senior National Club Championships; in 2016 we won the 80cm and 90cm and then last year we won the 1.00m.” True to his name, Rocket is constantly bouncing around and is ready to go. “He is a very fast horse and is comfortable doing tight turns and angles

Photo: 1st Class Images

over fences, however, he is partially sighted in his right eye so I have to be very cautious but it never seems to cause us any problems.”

he highly anticipated Equitop Myoplast Senior Foxhunter Masters 1.30m saw twelve competitors progress through to the thrilling jump-off on Day 5. With the top four in the class offering a qualification for HOYS, the pressure was on. It was Timothy Davies who shone through in the fierce competition aboard Lionel Van De Markieslanden, known as ‘Lionel’ who is owned by Barret Watson. Completing the jump-off round in 40.58 seconds, the two made it home a whole second before second place Annabel Shields.

n the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Bronze League Championship, six combinations found the solution in the first round and it was Claire Fielding who secured the only double clear to claim the 2018 RoR Bronze League title riding her own bay gelding, Stockade. “My friend Rachel Geary finds me racehorses and I’ve retrained seven so far. Stockade came from Jeffrey Deacon’s yard and had a good racing and point-topoint career,” explains Claire. Claire trains nine event horses and two ex-racehorses at her yard in Stansted, Essex. “The ROR series is great. People must realise that it takes time to retrain a racehorse; I’ve had Stockade for four years and we are still trying to get to where we want to be.”

n day one the Porsche Centre Solihull Championship Arena 2 played host to the Junior National Club Championship Finals, across four height categories; 70cm, 80cm, 90cm and 1.00m. In the 1.00m Championship Final the glory was that of Aoife Rew with Drishoge Lotto who were the reigning champions having won the same class here last year. With just two starters in the class, both riders went clear so it all came down to the jump off. Lilli Fiddes riding Miradays Luigi was first in the jump off but when she picked up an unfortunate four faults after knocking down the first fence, Aoife knew she had to jump clear to take the win. Navigating her way around the course, she knew she had won the moment she landed after the final fence: “I can’t believe we have done it again! I had four faults earlier in the 80cm final with my other mare Lively Lucy and then we were second in the 90cm. Then with Lotto we picked up four faults in the 90cm so I was just praying she went clear in the 1.00m, which she did so I am really pleased with her.”

VETS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

VETERINARY CONTACTS

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

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