Absolute Horse April 2015

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April 2015 £2.80 ISSUE 286

SPECIAL

LaMInITIS RePoRT: Do gut microbes have the answer?

UPDATE:

Stratford Hills Horse Trials

INSIDE

Rider Sponsorship opportunities tails!

- see pages 4 for de

PoPLaR PaRK CoVeRaGe! 3 - see page 42/4

EXCLUSIVE:

Jayne RoSS: ‘My Finishing Touches’

PeRFeCT SUMMeR

30 Over

WaRDRoBe ideas inside!

EAST ANGLIA’S LEADING EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE

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APRIL 2015

Jane Anderson riding Jims Patch, winners of BE90 - Sec D, Poplar Park Horse Trials 14th & 15th March. Photo: Absolute Horse Magazine

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News Your Comment VetWatch: Side Saddle Parelli EAST: Natural Horsemanship Local Show Reports Classifieds Vets in the Spotlight Showdate Directory

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Showing Special Pt 2: It’s Show Time!

Fashion: Summer Collections Nutrition: Looking at Balancers Ayuredic Herbs Laminitis Special Ride Like: Sharon Hunt Practice makes perfect Ride Like: Beverley Brightman Bringing on a Baby

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Equetech Giveaway Win TopSpec Cool Balancer Giveaways

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Careers: Working with horses Saddlery: Synthetic Tack

PHOTONEWS 41 42

UK Riders Dressage: Newton Hall EC British Eventing: Stratford Hills EC

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ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 3

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NEWS WIN TICKETS TO ROYAL It’s all about Redwings first ever art sale!

WINDSOR WITH ALLTECH me… and my horse

The Royal Windsor Horse Show kicks off the 2015 British summer show season on Wednesday 13th – Sunday 17th May. A must-attend event for all horse and country lovers, over 3,000 horses and ponies will descend on Her Majesty The Queen’s private grounds at Windsor Castle to take part in the five day show.

Now in its 72nd year, Royal Windsor Horse Show will continue as a three-star event with total prize money in excess of £250,000.

The lucky winner of this competition Absolute Horse will get to experience the thrilling CSI3* - Alltech Grand Prix for The has teamed up Kingdom of Bahrain Trophy, won with Alltech to last year by Robert Whitaker, riding Catwalk IV. giveaway a pair As well as top class international show of tickets! jumping the winner will get to enjoy the excitement of the Land Rover International Driving Marathon, the legendary Shetland Pony Grand National, displays including the impressive musical drive from The Household Cavalry and much more. Members’ badges will also be included to allow you to sample the atmosphere of the Members Enclosure.

For further information please visit www.lifeforcehorse.co.uk or telephone 01780 764512 *All travel and accommodation arrangements are the responsibility of the winner. The tickets

Ely based company Horse Confidence is proud to be organising East Anglia’s annual equestrian event “It’s all about me… and my horse”.

The event on 27th May has been created for everyone who loves horses, whether you are an owner, a happy hacker, or even a competitor, to help them build their partnership with their equine friends, and is being held at Houghton Hall EC, Cambridgeshire.

Tickets are available at www.itsallaboutme andmyhorse.co.uk

are for Sunday May 17th only. Dress code applies in the members’ enclosure, details of which can be found on the Royal Windsor Horse Show website. Entrants must be 18 years and over.

EQUIFEST 2015 - A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY As the most anticipated equestrian event of the year fast approaches, make sure you pencil Equifest into your diary!

Held at the East of England Showground, Peterborough, August 12th to 16th, the event is not to be missed and promises to be an action packed five days.

Learn from top riders across a range of disciplines and receive hands on advice, great tips and in depth knowledge to help you and your horse whatever your chosen sport or leisure activity.

Tickets for the five day spectacular are now available, (free entry on Wednesday and Thursday), so put the date in your diary today and get all your favourite horse mad friends together for a fabulous weekend of horsey fun.

To book your tickets for Equifest or for more information contact 01733 363500 or visit www.equifest.org.uk

This April, Redwings’ Aylsham visitor centre in North Norfolk opens its doors to art collectors, Sanctuary supporters and those who love all things horsey.

Here, you’ll be able to peruse and purchase pieces from Redwings’ collection of donated artwork; from reproduction prints of well-known paintings and classically framed works depicting traditional countryside scenes, to modern colourful pieces by both amateurs and professionals.

Prices of artwork will range from £5 to £425, so there will be something to suit every taste and budget, plus every penny raised from the art sale will go directly towards the care of Redwings’ 1500 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules.

Redwing’s art sale takes place on Easter weekend Friday 3rd to Monday 6th April and on the following weekend Friday 10th to Monday 13th April, 10am to 4pm, at Redwings Aylsham, Spa Lane, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6UE. Entry is free of charge.

Sunshine Tour UK In 2015, for the first time in history the UK’s most famous showground, The All England Jumping Course at Hickstead will host an unaffiliated championship.

The Sunshine Tour relocates to this prestigious venue after 8 successful years of championship for amateurs and with this exciting move, the attraction goes truly nationwide.

The Sunshine Tour is a series of qualifying competitions for unaffiliated riders and handlers with novice horses and ponies, culminating in a fun and exciting championship on 18th-20th September at Hickstead. Dressage Intro to Elementary; Show Jumping from cross poles to 1m; Showing for ridden, lead rein, inhand and working hunters; Eventers Challenge from 70cm-1m.

Check out www.sunshinetour.co.uk to find out how to take part in qualifying competitions, see the list of qualifying venues and dates or apply for a personal qualifier card to use anywhere.

For more information call 01372 451458 / 07904 898696 or email enquiries@sunshinetour.co.uk (See advert on page 52)

Th Chip Win e Blue ter Show jum Champio nships ru ping n from Wedn Sunday 1 esday 8th April to 2 compete th April, riders o Blue Chip are delighted to announce that they are looking for two show jumping riders to join their elite team, which f all levels in a varie ty of clas highligh includes Beth Vernon and Holly Gillott. ses, with t being T the he Blue C on Friday hip Gran Blue Chip realise how hard it is to qualify for the Blue Chip Winter Showjumping Championships and as a thank you to riders for night wh d P rix ic c h o w mpeting ill see top making this competition so popular there are two amazing sponsorship opportunities available, one for a junior rider (up to 16 years over the riders 1 .3 5 old) and one for a senior rider. Both riders must have competed in the Blue Chip Winter Showjumping Championships 2015, which metre co which wa urse, s won la are run under British Showjumping rules, at Hartpury College.

Chloe Win st year by chester.

For more information please call 0114 2666200 or visit www.bluechipfeed.com/jumpingsponsorship

BLUE CHIP OFFER SPONSORSHIP FOR SHOWJUMPING RIDERS

4 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

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FOR ALL YOUR SADDLE FITTING Tel: 07900 901589 www.expressequine.co.uk

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STRATFORD HILLS ADDS NEW CLASS TO SCHEDULE Stratford Hills Horse Trials held on 20th-21st June, is in its thirteenth year and is well established on the eventing calendar.

This year, as well as the usual full compliment of classes up to Intermediate Novice including U21 sections for both the Novice and BE100, a new BE80(T) class is being added to the schedule. The purpose of the new class is to introduce people to the sport. The class is designed to educate and encourage riders, the dressage is not too daunting and the maximum height of any fence is 80cm. A trainer will do a SJ and XC course walk and will also be available to answer any queries competitors may have – such as permitted tack or how to warm up

for dressage. A new course is being built for the class in the same fields as the BE90 and BE100 courses.

As well as this new class, another addition to the Stratford Hills course is a redesigned and extended water jump, this will enable many more jumping options in all of the classes.

The picturesque XC course now has excellent well-established grass cover over its entire length. If the ground gets very dry the dressage, show jumping and crosscountry courses will all be equivated in the two days prior to the event. In wet weather it also rides well as the soil is free draining and dries extremely quickly.

The organisers are delighted to be

Entries open for the Redwings Show!

Redwings Horse Sanctuary’s annual show will be held on Sunday 17th May at Topthorn Equestrian Centre in Suffolk and with classes for both experienced and novice riders and horses, the charity is looking forward to a super turnout!

In the spirit of providing something for everyone, this year’s event will hold heavy horse classes – a first for the Redwings Show – as well as those aimed at novice riders and horses, lead rein classes and clear round jumping.

The 2015 show will also hold the hotly contested TARRA and Donkey Breed Society affiliated classes, classes for veterans, the ever-popular rescued horses/pony classes and fun classes for those who just want a day out with their horse, pony or donkey.

During the lunch break, attendees will be treated to a talk by Redwings’ Senior Vet Nicky Jarvis on how to body condition score your horse.

For more information and to view the full schedule, please visit www.redwings.org.uk.

Free veterinary seminar for horse owners Does laminitis worry you? Are you looking for ways to lighten the load? Redwings Horse Sanctuary offers horse owners the opportunity to learn more about laminitis and equine weight management in their forthcoming seminar, which is completely free to attend.

On Wednesday 29th April, Redwings will host an evening seminar entitled Lightening the load, featuring two thirty-minute presentations from farrier and educator Dean Bland of Well Equine and Redwings Sanctuary Farms Manager, Emma Lacey.

With talks from Dean Bland, who specialises in horses with conformational and lameness issues and works with organisations around the world, and a valuable insight into how Redwings manages weight issues from the Sanctuary Farms Manager of the UK’s largest horse sanctuary Emma Lacey (who is personally responsible for managing the diets of over 1000 horses), attendees are in for a real treat! There will also be plenty of time during the evening for questions and interaction with the experts.

Redwings’ free evening seminar will be held at Redwings Aylsham north of Norwich on Wednesday 29th April from 6.30pm. As well as fascinating presentations and practical take-home advice, attendees will also be able to pick up a bargain at a second-hand tack sale and enjoy complimentary teas and coffees.

To book your place or to receive more information about future Redwings seminars, contact Andie Vilela by calling 01508 481066 or emailing avilela@redwings.co.uk.

The new water jump undergoing a major reconstruction

February competition winners Blue Chip Danielle Bennett, Essex; Jane Greatorex, Cambs; Amanda Ainsworth, Suffolk; Angela Fowler, Essex; Bethany Hams, Norfolk; Evangelia Diamanti, Cambs; Jo Craig, Essex; Joan Scourfield, Suffolk; L Disley, Cambs; Laura Woolf, Suffolk; Sally Wright, Suffolk; Tia Foster, Essex. Champion & Toggi Lily Bennett, Norfolk. Lifeforce Elite Kelly Tourle, Norfolk; Lesley Holden, Norfolk.

supporting two local charities this year, Success After Stroke, a charity based in Sudbury, Suffolk and The Shelley Centre for Therapeutic Riding which is also nearby.

Entries can be made via the internet at www.bdwp.co.uk/shl from 13th May. Stratford Hills is just off the A12 near Colchester at Higham. Spectators are welcome to come and watch all the competitors and enjoy shopping at the Tradestands - £10 per car including all occupants.

The British Horse Society

2015 Training Dates 4th Apr: Horse Agility Day, Chelmsford EC, Beehive Lane, Chelmsford, CM2 8RL. Contact Beth for more details on 07807 312252 or beth.chamberlin@hotmail.co.uk.

6th Apr: Introduction to Horse Agility, at Valley Farm Equestrian Leisure, Wickham Market, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 0ND. Contact Melanie Lawson for more details: mj.lawson35@yahoo.co.uk.

20th Apr: CPD Fantastic Jumping, with Carole Broad FBHS, 9.30am until 4pm. Houghton Hall EC, New Manor Farm, Sawtry Way, Wyton, Cambs, PE28 2DY. 21st Apr: Intermediate Teaching Training Day, with Carol Broad FBHS, 9:30am until 4pm. Easton College, Easton, Norwich, Norfolk NR9 5DX. 25th Apr: Horse Agility Training and Competition with Amanda Braham. Shuttleworth Equine Unit, Near Biggleswade, SG18 9HF. 10-12.30pm or 1.30-4pm. £30. Contact Ann Kennedy 01234 709960 or bhs.beds@gmail.com 1st May: Stable Managers Certificate Training Day with Carole Broad FBHS, 9.30 until 4pm. Shuttleworth Equine Unit, near Biggleswade, SG18 9HF. For more information on these dates, to book online or for other trainings visit www.bhs.org.uk/east For more details please contact: Janet Pamment, BHS Regional Development Officer on 07808 141076 or janet.pamment@bhs.org.uk www.bhs.org.uk ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 5

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YOUR COMMENT

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now continually jumping for 1st and 2nds and hopefully with do some RIHS & HOYS WHP tracks - it's taken a lot!

Kate Scorey: Because I'm not battling mud every day to see my ponies!

Charlie Cullum: March has been brilliant as I did my first ever competition today, coming tenth in the novice hunter trial - excellent considering 9 months ago I couldn't even get on a horse without being sick from bad experiences till I met my new horse - my perfect partner in crime!

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Sue Nelson: First month back properly riding after broken ankle brilliant!

Hannah Alecock: March has been the best month because on Thursday I became the very proud owner of my dream horse who was given to me by her amazing owner. Goes without saying but I'm extremely grateful and very lucky!

well enough to be turned out, she is not only sound but started walking out on hacks! We have been together 22 years and looks like will have a few more to come.

Hannah Hammond: First proper ride since breaking my arm in June.

Tell us why March has been a great horsey month for you...

month... so far!

Charlotte Gage: Getting to Jenny Dorris Phipps: I get married on Justin Hollis: Archie has completed join in on finishing the final the 18th April and my horses have another BE event and at the grand age season with the East Anglian blood been the most amazing stress relief for of 18 his going strong. We also got our hounds x Gina Bruce: March is good as me this month. And they’re going so best dressage score to date - love him Rosie Harper: Found the perfect nothing has gone wrong... yet. well I can squeeze in a little show on so much. pony! After a sad loss x Daughter’s pony is back in proper my mum’s birthday weekend! work and won a BD elementary class Christina Battle: Because after losing Jade Andrews: Back in the saddle and Harri Penny: After a hard winter loving it since I had a baby in January. battling mud fever and the like, today I last week, he has been off ill since last all my confidence I found it again Missed it sooo much! had my first proper dressage lesson of August on and off, I am saluting thanks to very special friends and a very this year on the most handsome pony magpies all over the place. special pony! ever. It was my birthday present to Hester Kemp: March was pretty Hollie Morris: That my big boy who is myself. awesome. Got to watch the other half 17.3hh and is only 6 is becoming a star Jane Medcalf: Best month for me as beat Mark Todd in the dressage at Sam Merchant: March has been in traffic and working the best he ever been able to tag along with a friend Poplar Park... in his jumping saddle the best month for me as I made has finally clicked, can't wait to have and get her novice mare out to a and jumping stirrups in the class he my debute out at British Eventing, more fun together! competition.... I lost a lot of confidence didn't mean to enter! Men! at Poplar Park. Not only was it my Kerri Skelton: Best month as brought and riding with my friend has helped. first time doing an affiliated Carole Tubb: For me March means my 5-year-old Trad Stallion back into And the mare and I even came home eventing competition, but my first spring has sprung and my ponies and work and he's going fab. Plus my today with a rosette, the icing on the ODE since breaking my back in I have survived another winter intact, youngster is seeming to finally be cake as I was just happy to get round April 2014, only 11 months ago! now bring on the summer! putting weight on after his illness at the XC in one piece!

Wasn't sure I would ever compete Amy Rimmer: March has been the Christmas. Finally light at end of the Leeanne Crowe: Because I haven't again, yet alone go affiliated and be best month because last year I was tunnel. had to turn menage lights on as much. confident.

What a great start to the told my pony had severe separation of Helen Murphy: Because I haven't lost 2015 season.

Kittiana 'Portly' French: Because her pedal bones and may never be a boot or face planted in the mud all after 5 years of hell, my Dales pony is

ST R COMMENT WINNER

Chloe-ann May: Who would believe it, last year I walked the BE at Poplar Park and thought that all the riders were amazing and professional and I could only ever dream of doing a BE event - this year (March 14th) me and Noah flew round the 90! Dreams can come true with hard work and persistence, never give up! Certainly our biggest achievement to date, March has been a great month!

Well done!

Photo taken September 2013 at Norton Heath at the Area Festival when Sofia was a few months old.

Julia Brightwell riding E Equals MC Squared, aka Albert shares her recent successes at Wix EC: “It was my first time competing at Freestyle and also competing at Elementary. My horse and I came first in the Novice with a score of 72.22 and second in the Elementary with a score of 71.15, qualifying for the Regional Finals at both levels!

“I work full time in London and juggle riding with work and my 22month old daughter Sofia so I’m extra proud of our achievements.”

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IT’S SHOW TIME

Prep

Pre-show

Photo: Julian Portch

Jayne Ross and Broadshard Simplicity.

T

he 2014 showing season ended on a high for Jayne Ross and the team at Carol Bardo’s Moor Farm in Berkshire. Jayne and Rosettes Direct’s large riding horse, Broadshard Simplicity took the Supreme Horse of the Year title.

Jayne has shown her talent with riding horses over the years, taking the Supreme in 2011 with Comberton Clancy, 2009 with The Philanderer and 2004 with Soldier Brave.

Jayne and the team are now busy gearing up for another busy showing season. There are some 25 horses at Moor Farm, most of

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8 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

whom will be shortly either returning to the showing ring after their Winter break or starting their careers there. Nothing in this prestigious yard is left to chance and Jayne will only take a horse into the ring once he or she is ready for the experience both mentally and physically.

A big part of preparing the horses for the ring is having them impeccably turned out.

Ensuring that the horses look stunning in the ring is a time consuming process that starts long before the show.

Jayne said, “We want to create a clear outline for the head and legs, but we don’t want the horse to look scalped! The

trimming needs to have the hair blended in and moulded into the contours of the horse, clipping in the direction the hair grows helps with this. Particularly with the older horses, I like to leave them with a degree of modesty. I would also advise trimming three or four days before a show so it has a chance to settle in.”

For trimming the horses head Jayne suggests carefully trimming the ears both right inside and out with small battery operated clippers. The jawline should be defined, “It is often useful to use the back edge of the clippers for trimming under the jaw to ensure definition without looking skinned. The back edge of the clippers is also useful to gently trim off hairs without damaging the coat underneath. Many years ago before electric and battery clippers, it was the norm to use a singeing lamp to do under the jaw.”

When it comes to trimming legs Jayne advocates a similar approach to trimming the head. “Again, we are trying to create definition and shape to the legs. If the horse has very hairy legs it is often useful to pull the higher up hair out by hand. Be careful not to give the horse odd shaped legs when trimming lower down with the clippers. Again, always trim in the direction the hair grows.”

The time of year is also a consideration when it comes to trimming the horse. Jayne added, “We don’t want to trim legs too much at this time of year, horses are losing

their coats and so we don’t want to damage the summer coat underneath”.

After trimming the horse, it is useful to give them a good bath in a high quality shampoo such as Absorbine 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner and then check how the trimming looks afterwards. If any stray hairs have been missed they will become apparent.

The mane needs to be pulled to accommodate the type of plaits you are going to do. Jayne said, “We will often as a team stand back and assess the horses as to what the best plan is. We are always very careful when rugging the horses that none of their mane is rubbed out by a neck cover”. The mane should be pulled from underneath and the length and thickness will depend on what sort of plaits you will need to enhance the horse’s neck.

Before pulling a tail, always ensure you are wearing the correct safety equipment, such as long boots and a hard hat. Head Groom at Moor Farm, Mark Chambers said, “If the horse is at all unpredictable, make sure you have someone to help and if needs be stand him in the stable with the door bolted shut and his tail over the door to pull it, just in case he objects and kicks out.”

Mark said, “Start off pulling the hairs from underneath the tail using a fine comb. To make it easier to get the hairs underneath I often place a short stick under the tail to lift it slightly. Gently pull the hairs out so the tail follows the shape of the dock and looks tight. Go slowly and take out little bits at a

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April 2015 pages 1 to 27_Layout 1 24/03/2015 08:20 Page 9

time and not big chunks. It is best to pull the tail over time so the hairs grow back at different times and therefore at different lengths. It makes life awkward further down the line if all the hairs grow back densely at the same length. The whole purpose of pulling a tail is to enhance the horse’s back end and make it look more elegant.”

Once the tail has been pulled, the team at Moor Farm wash it thoroughly and then

spray with Absorbine ShowSheen to keep the hair in good condition.

With thanks to Carol Bardo, Jayne Ross and their team.

The full range of Absorbine products are available from Equestrian retailers and Absorbine Stockists. For more product information, visit www.absorbine.co.uk, or find us on facebook www.facebook.com/AbsorbineUK.

Hail Caesar!

Horse name: Caesar’s Palace Stable name: Caesar Owner: Jill Day Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Height: 16.31/2hh Age: 6 Breed: Irish Sport Horse Sire: Emperor August

Caesar’s Palace took the Show Hunter Championship at HOYS last year after winning the Middleweight category. We first caught sight of him at the Royal Dublin Horse Show. His owner Jill Day had seen him and wanted us to have a closer look. You could see he was a star even as a 2-year-old and went on to be Youngstock Champion at this prestigious show. Like all top class show horses he just has that ‘look at me’ attitude what horses are born with. You can improve them in many ways but they have to stand out from the rest in a class and attract the judge’s attention.

Three secrets that our readers should know about him: 1: He’s very fussy; 2: He’s a good-doer; 3: He is always relaxed and good to do.

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IT’S SHOW TIME

TACK&TURNOUT SHOW RIDER, PRODUCER AND JUDGE LORAINE HOMER IS TOP OF HER FIELD, COURTESY OF ALOERIDE, THE ORGANIC NATURAL ALOE VERA EQUINE FEED SUPPLEMENT, LORAINE GIVES READERS SOME TOP TIPS ON LOOKING GOOD IN THE SHOW RING….

THE HORSE Presentation is everything and when it comes to your horse, it is important to present the right image from the start.

A brown leather bridle that fits well is the first thing to look for. Old tack is normally the best but you can now find specialist makers for tack designed for the showring. Tack must be supple and clean. Always shine your bits up too.

Most show horses are ridden in a double bridle, however if your horse is young or inexperienced, you can ride in a snaffle or I start with a simple rugby pelham.

You would normally find coloured brow-bands on Riding Horses or Hacks, but be careful not to go too heavy on the bling! I prefer to see horses looking natural, so if you are planning to use make-up on your horse do so discreetly. Check society rules on this as it is becoming unpopular with Judges.

The same goes with overdoing the products on the coat sheen. We feed

What’s the best shampoo to use on my...

10 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

Photos: David Miller

Aloeride because it gives the horses a lovely natural bloom to their coats, which doesn’t rub off over you or look artificial. It also helps support your horses’ immune system, which is important if you have a busy competition season ahead of you.

Always plait up using thread and not elastic bands. A well-pulled mane will help with the correct size and number of plaits.

The show saddle should be straighter cut then a GP saddle to show off the shoulder but above all, comfortable for the Judge to ride in. You can wear a brown numnah under the saddle but it must fit the saddle to the same size.

THE RIDER You need to look the part too, so make sure that your show jacket fits well and is clean. A Navy show jacket is used in hack classes and children’s riding pony classes otherwise a tweed jacket is correct for all other showing disciplines.

requesting that riders wear a hard hat with safety chin strap and some request certain safety standards, so again check the rule book.

Good luck and remember not to get despondent if you don’t win. There is always another day/show and hopefully these tips will help you and your horse move up the line-up by catching the judge’s eye for all the RIGHT reasons! www.aloeride.co.uk 01858 464 550

You should always wear a well fitting shirt and tie with tiepin and never a stock.

Long black leather boots with a pair of cream or canary coloured breeches and brown gloves are key and a show cane is the finishing touch.

More and more shows are now

Palomino: Super Gold is specially made for horses with a palomino, light chestnut or dun coat. It’s natural ingredients are designed to bring out the reflective gold colours in these types. This shampoo is concentrated and can be diluted which makes it’s easier to get through a thicker coat right to the skin.

Bay: Super Red This shampoo will help to achieve a great shine from skin to hair tip, which will reflect the sun and make your chestnuts and bay horses shine brilliantly. The gel formula can be diluted at different rates, for a quick wash off to a concentrated deep cleansing bath.

Grey: Super White is the perfect partner for greys, dapples, roans and flea bittens. This shampoo won’t dull any coloured spots or markings. Due to its concentrated formula it can be diluted for an all over wash, as well as used neat on a stubborn stable stain.

Dark Brown: Super Black for dark brown and black horses has been formulated specifically for these coat types to achieve the best results and a deep down clean. The shampoo contains coconut oil, a natural non greasy conditioner which helps to produce a high gloss sheen. Concentrated so a little will go a lot further than you think.

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Scurf Off - Specially formulated for the scurfy coat, containing pure rosemary oil. Ideal for springtime washes. Great for a moulting winter coat and associated dander and scurf.

Quip Clean - is your onestop-product for cleaning and disinfecting of tools, buckets, feed bins etc.

It’s cleaning power makes light work of heavy dirt.

Make our BODY WASHES the only choice for your horse and pony Stay cool, calm and itch free with our superior range of 100% natural conditioning shampoos and body washes. Bacteria and fungi cleaned away with ease.

Free from chemicals, soap, detergents and artificial thickeners.

Rug Clean - Our Non-Biological washing liquid works even at low temperatures. Suitable for hand and machine washing. Used by the professionals, available to all.

In 1lt, 5lt and 20lt.

No Bute Original - Comfort for joints the natural way. Can be given daily long term.

Free delivery on orders containing any No Bute product.

36/37 Haverscroft Industrial Estate, New Road, Attleborough, Norfolk NR17 1YE Tel: +44(0)1953 456363 Fax: +44 (0)1953 455594 email: sales@barrier-biotech.com www.flyrepel.com www.ragwort.com

ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 11

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IT’S SHOW TIME

Want to cut a dash in the

Showring?

Just as other disciplines demand performance from their clothing, so do show riders, which is why choosing the right showing attire is more than just looking good!

UNDER COVER!

Choose underwear which prevents VPL and gives you a slick finish under your competition outfit and very importantly choose a good supportive bra.

Look out for technical fabrics in shirting for breathability and wicking properties. Our Hexatec Show Shirts are styled in an advanced technical fabric, which is not only breathable, but also wicks away moisture and is quick drying so offers the ultimate in DESIGNER AND MD OF EQUESTRIAN stretch, comfort and shape retention. They FASHION CLOTHING BRAND EQUETECH, also incorporate 'Coolmax' to help you feel fresh, whilst it’s concealed front button LIZ HAYMAN GIVES HER TOP TIPS ON placket, petite crisp show tie collar, tie loop DRESSING FOR SHOWING SUCCESS. to keep tie neatly in place and faux tailored front panel all help maintain a traditional image.The shirts also have shaped darts at opposed to the many ‘boxy’ styles out FINALLY…. both the front and back to flatter, so you there which won’t give you that lovely Showing is all about complimenting your look just as good when you remove your neat, smart first impression. Try and horse and effortless elegance, so look for show jacket! compliment your show outfit with your garments which combine quality and horse’s colouring. A brown jacket with classic tailoring for a look that will catch FREEDOM IS FABULOUS! burgundy plaid, for example can the Judge’s eye for all the right reasons this Freedom of movement is key in the rest of compliment a chestnut or bright bay season! your outfit as well, so choose jackets beautifully, whilst a green Jacket with navy www.equetech.com which feel comfortable and fit. Squeezing works well for all colours including yourself into a jacket you have grown out coloureds! Even your choice of style and of will not only look ugly, but will make colour tie can be used as the link to bring you feel uncomfortable and will be an the whole look together. For example, a unwelcome distraction in the ring. tweed jacket with a very subtle canary plaid Choosing a jacket which is cut to flatter is can be ‘brought out’ by teaming it with a especially important for showing, so look gold tie and Tattersall check waistcoat – out for a nicely cut jacket, which skims stunning on a dun or palomino. your curves and gives a good overall impression. Our tweed show jackets go up ONE LUCKY READER WILL LEAD THE WAY to a size 24 and have been designed to suit When it comes to lead rein showing, the WIN THESE SUPER all figures with their clever seams, pocket vogue towards matching rider with handler and button placement. If you are pear EQUETECH PRODUCTS! continues and for this season we have shaped try and avoid shorter jackets. For introduced showing culottes for ladies who The Wheatley Deluxe Tweed Riding Jacket bigger busted or inverted triangle shapes, love the practicality of trousers but desire is styled in 100% pure wool tweed and has find a jacket that gives you a waistline to been created to flatter all figures with its double the elegance of wearing a shin length skirt. balance out your figure, to avoid making back vents and clever seam placement and is I love navy as a dominant colour because it you look square. For apple shapes, choose perfect for showing off in the ring this summer! is incredibly smart and flattering on all skin Sizes 8-24. Prices start at £125.50. smaller over-checks or plainer tweed to tones. We’ve picked out navy as a base for The Hexatec Capped Sleeved & Sleeveless give you a slimmer outline. There are many Shirts. RRP: £45.95. our plaid because it’s an easy colour to mix nationwide alteration companies popping Equetech Hexatec Sleeveless Shirt with but also not as severe as black. For RRP: £41.95. Sizes: 8-20. Colours: White, up that can easily give you a tailored ‘made lead-rein handlers, we have also Buttermilk. to measure’ look on a budget. introduced wide rim colour coordinated To be in with a chance of winning visit tweed hat with a generous navy velvet bow www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and STYLE IN HAND to the back, again adding something click on the ‘Competitions’ tab. Deadline For in-hand showing, a smart lapelled subtle but feminine to complete the is 30th April. tweed waistcoat can really finish your look, picture. but choose one with some shape as

Giveaway!

12 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

www.equetech.com

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Product news...

The Miranda Jacket is slim fitting competition jacket from the Pikeur Premium Collection. It is made from a lightweight softshell fabric that is extremely breathable, lightweight and bi-elastic to allow greater freedom of movement. Miranda features a half mesh lining for the ultimate in temperature regulation, two zipped front pockets with pocket flaps, double vents at the back, contrasting lurex stitching, the crown emblem embroidered on the left sleeve and Pikeur Premium buttons to finish.

Not only is this jacket uber stylish and comfortable to wear, but it is also a limited edition. Available in Night Blue. RRP: £339. www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

The Equiline Eva Competition Shirt has a fitted shape and features short sleeves, a ruched front with ruffle trim and Equiline crystal detail on the collar. Eva is made from a four way stretch cotton fabric that is also breathable and therefore guarantees the highest level of comfort whilst riding.

Available in plain white or pale blue micro pin stripe with white accents. RRP: £103. www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

This SD Design Stock Pin is styled with genuine Swarovski crystals and immersed in a stunning Jet and Silver setting. Smart and stylish teamed with a stock but also ticks this season’s big catwalk trend for statement jewellery, so even when you wear it for an evening out, you’ll still feel pretty cosmic!

RRP: £38. www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

Toggi Monica The new Monica stock shirt features elegant and classic styling combined with Aerocool fabric technology which absorbs and transports moisture away from the skin quickly, leaving you feeling cool and comfortable. Colours: White; Sizes: 8-20; Price from: £37.50 Champion CPX3000 Deluxe Riding Hat This superbly stylish velvet covered riding hat is made with a lightweight injection moulded ABS shell and soft leather padded harness. Kitemarked to PAS015 for superb protection and Champion peace of mind.

Colours: Black, Navy, Brown, Burgundy, Green; Sizes: 6¼ - 6¾ £96 (VAT not applicable); 67/8 - 7¾. £115.25 (incl VAT).

Toggi Isis breeches have a soft feel and superb stretch to provide exceptional comfort and ease of movement. Featuring imitation suede knee patches, Isis are made from a naturally breathable fabric for exceptional comfort and performance.

Colours: White, Winter White, Sand, Pampas, Chocolate, Navy, Pewter, Black; Sizes: 24” – 34” Price from: £70

Toggi Bayham gloves These exquisite soft leather riding gloves offer outstanding performance, control and style. Feature a velcro tab adjuster for the perfect fit.

Colours: Black, Tan; Sizes: XS – XL; Price from: £35

For more information on all Toggi products visit www.toggi.com and for all Champion products visit www.championhats.co.uk

ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 13

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5 minutes with Anne Fitzpatrick

IT’S SHOW TIME AS EQUIFEST APPROACHES WE ASK THE TEAM FOR SOME ADVICE ON THE IMPORTANCE OF PRESENTING YOUR HORSE WELL AND HOW TO PLAY TO YOUR STRENGTHS IN ORDER TO IMPRESS THE JUDGES

Art of Ringcraft

R

ingcraft is the art of presenting and showing off your horse in the ring to allow the best possible chance of impressing the Judge.

Showing is about making an instant impact and creating the best picture possible. As well as emphasising all the horse’s good points it is important to try and improve or hide the horse’s bad points.

The outcome of the class depends entirely on the Judge’s opinion which is based on a sound knowledge of the requirements for each showing class.

Different Judges place differing emphasis on criteria such as breed, manners, correctness of conformation and way of going.

A horse with good, well-balanced conformation will not only please the eye but should also be able to perform well, be more comfortable to ride and, consequently, remain sound.

Quality, class and overall refinement are essentials a good show horse must have, whether it is a Hunter or a Cob. It is important to know who will be judging and what they might like. Your horse’s success depends on your ability to place him under Judges who will appreciate his qualities.

Riding In the Ring It is crucial that you present your horse at his best whenever the Judge is looking at you. As you enter the ring, try and place yourself between inferior horses so that your horse looks better.

When you are in the ring make sure you concentrate on what you are doing and keep an eye on the Judge to know when they are looking.

The steward will then ask the class to move forward into trot. The trot needs to be well paced with an even flowing rhythm covering the ground. It is important that as you move up a pace that you keep plenty of space around you so the Judge can see you at all times.

When moving into canter you might find it easier to use a corner to help get on the correct lead, and should be smooth, flowing and balanced with the horse showing selfcarriage.

The steward will then ask the class to change the rein and perform the same on the other rein. The steward will usually tell you to change the rein at the next corner and go across on a diagonal. Judges can often use this to look at how straight your horse moves along the line.

The gallop is used to show that your horse

Product news...

LeMieux Competition Riding Socks are 100% premium quality combed cotton with anatomically reinforced and shaped to support muscles and prevent socks from slipping inside boots. The ultra tough Terry fabric sole offers comfort, thermal insulation and shock absorption. As well as breathability and efficient moisture wicking properties. RRP: £7.50.

LeMieux Groom’s Handbag has numerous pockets and

14 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

can extend and lower his strides without rushing. The rider should prepare his horse for the gallop, accelerating smoothly out of the corner.

After the initial ‘go round’ the Judge will be looking how to position everyone in the first line up, so don’t get boxed in and make sure you are seen.

Depending on the class after this preliminary line up you will be expected to perform an individual show or the Judge will ride your horse.

What to keep in your show ring basket?

After the first ‘pull in’ all saddles are removed from the horses, before they are shown off without their tack.

The grooms enter the ring to assist the riders, any last minute touch-ups are made before the horse is stood up in-hand.

We would recommend your show ring basket should contain the following essential items: • One body brush.

• A cloth to wipe away any dirt.

• Coat shine spray.

• Hoof gloss, oil to give the hooves a really tidy appearance.

“Weston Charity Shows was borne from an idea that we needed to help the East Anglian Air Ambulance raise funds, and to provide a stepping stone for novices into the showing world.

The two combined proved a massive hit at our July 2014 event.

“We have an entire novice ring, where you will be supported and encouraged as well as In-hand and Ridden classes for those more seasoned competitors, a fun dog show and clear round jumping with varying heights throughout the day.

“Our 2015 event will be held on 19th July at Weston Equestrian Centre, Morton Lane, Weston Longville, Norwich NR9 5JL (follow the Weston Park signs and the horseshoe signs).

“Gates open at 10am for competitors, there’s ample free parking and for those a little hesitant of towing, there is no tight manoeuvring!

“Spectators are free, plus there’s lots of different trade stands to have a look round.

“Veterinary cover is provided by Westover Veterinary centre, First aid provided by Med PTS and we are fully insured by Lycetts (Fakenham).

“Discounted pre entries will be available on our website www.westoncharityshows.co.uk from 1st May 2015 and will close at midnight 15th July 2015 we also accept entries on the day (cash only).”

Held at the East of England Showground, Peterborough, August 12 to 16, Equifest is the event not to be missed and promises to be an action packed five days.

To book your tickets for Equifest or for more information contact (01733) 363500 or visit www.equifest.org.uk

inner compartments with a secure zip top and choice of grab handles or adjustable shoulder strap. If it needs transporting this is the bag. Available: Burgundy and Blue. RRP: £29.95.

The AnxiKalm Triple Strength syringe ensures a fast rate of absorption so the active ingredients get to work rapidly.

Administration and quantity needs to be varied according to each individual horse or pony. Normally best given in a 3 hour window prior to riding or competition with the last being given at 1 hour 30 mins. £12.95. www.horsehealth.co.uk

April 2015 pages 1 to 27_Layout 1 24/03/2015 08:20 Page 15

GET READY FOR THE

SHOW SEASON Equetech Wheatley Deluxe Tweed Riding Jacket due for delivery beginning of May 2015 • Charles Owen show hats with leather harness; • Canary jodhpurs from Phoenix and Equetech; • Dublin jodhpur boots in all sizes, and adult Ariat boots available; • Huge selection of leather gloves; • Ties, scrunchies, leather-covered canes; • Shires shirts in childrens and adult sizes

...PLUS MUCH MORE!

!

op h s p o t s Your one

Ride N Drive Equestrian Supplies, Tinkers Lane, Henstead, Nr.Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 7LB.

Tel: 01502 740771 OPENING: M, T, W, T, F, S 9am-5pm SUNDAY 10am-3.30pm

ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 15

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FASHION: SUMMER COLLECTIONS

Dress to impress this season with Toggi

When it comes to planning the perfect summer wardrobe, it’s important to be prepared for every eventuality, as few things can ruin a perfect summer day with our horses faster than an unexpected rainstorm. And if there’s one thing we can be sure of in Great Britain, it’s that we can’t depend on the weather.

Fortunately, the latest Toggi collections for Spring/Summer 2015 have you covered, with a tantalising selection of new styles designed to keep you warm, dry and dressed to impress this season.

Outerwear is obviously a key wardrobe essential and you can now enjoy even greater protection from the elements, without riding performance being hindered by inadequate designs.

The superb new Clementine performance jacket is made from a ripstop fabric with taped seams and a durable water repellent finish to ensure the high performance that riders need. Its many design features, such as a two way front zip, extra wide zip up side vents, articulated sleeves, an action back and a removable and adjustable engineered hood, ensure exceptional rider comfort, both in and out of the saddle.

A number of classic quilted jacket styles will have you spoilt for choice, such as the Toggi Arabella and Alexandra which ooze sophistication and class, whilst providing welcome warmth on chilly days. And if you’re looking for a timeless sense of style, the latest addition to the Toggi country coat collection – the April ladies country coat - will not disappoint, expertly combining sophistication with function and Toggi’s renowned attention to detail.

For long, summer days in the saddle, at the yard or out and about at shows, the latest Toggi leisurewear collection has been designed to combine comfort with style, for some wonderful summer adventures. From classically styled rugby shirts such as Lacey or Lena, both made from super soft cotton jersey with stretch, to sophisticated polos such as Lottie and Marcia with their exquisite embroidery, to classically designed sweatshirts such as Lavinia and Kelsey, the latest Toggi leisurewear collection offers something for everyone.

16 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

Toggi Clementine Price from £125

Toggi Lavinia & Toggi Marcia

Toggi April Waterproof and breathable with taped seams and a durable water repellent finish, this beautiful ladies country jacket features a lightweight padding throughout for cosy comfort.

Colours: Fern.

Sizes: 8-20.

Price from: £130

Toggi Arabella Price from £100

Toggi Cordelia In a very delicate fine stripe and with pretty collar detailing, the luxurious fabric of the Cordelia sleeveless shirt contains stretch for added comfort and easy care.

Colours: cool blue stripe.

Sizes: 8-20.

Price from: £37.50

Toggi Lottie This stylish slim fit pique polo has pretty gathering at the sleeve and contrast colour tipping at the collar and cuffs for a look you will love.

Colours: Vanilla. Sizes: 8-20.

Price from: £40 Toggi Cassie With a beautifully fitted shape and flattering quilting design, this super chic padded gilet is perfect for keeping you warm when the sun goes down. Colours: Clematis, Topaz Blue.

Sizes: 8-20. Price from: £65.

Toggi Quest These superb riding boots feature an elasticised quarter panel with a full length YKK zip for ease of donning and doffing.

Designed to provide many hours of unsurpassed comfort, support and performance.

Colours: Black, Cheeko.

Sizes: 36-43.

Price from: £120

Toggi Lawson The classic colours of this gorgeous gents’ rugby shirt are sure to complement any outfit. Designed in a beautiful washed fabric which is spot on for the season.

Colours: Night Blue.

Sizes: XS-XXL. Price from: £55 For more information on all Toggi products visit

www.toggi.com

April 2015 pages 1 to 27_Layout 1 24/03/2015 08:20 Page 17

This Snaffles Technical Polo features an exclusive especially commissioned snaffle bridle print design which brings a haute couture feel to summer casual riding wear.

Styled in a lightweight technical stretch fabric which offers total freedom of movement, this shirt features capped sleeves, gathered seam at the bust, open button placket with a parade of Equetech engraved buttons, scooped back hem and cute White knitted polo collar. RRP: £39.50. www.equetech.com

Petrie Athene Polo Boots feature a tough rubber grip sole with a cozy foot bed as standard. Featuring a full length front zip and flattering high top curve, these boots are finished with the signature Petrie embossed brass effect logo and a designer buckle strap (Which actually fastens via a hidden press stud for ease).

RRP: £360.

Available in Cognac, Dark Brown and Black. www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

The Timothy Foxx men's Marsden Country Polo Shirt in washed navy takes a relaxed approach to a classic. Featuring white cuffs and a generous white collar designed to worn up or down. RRP £42.

The Yelford Country Polo Shirt in Mustard also scores highly in the style stakes with it’s crisp white cuffs and a generous collar. The shirt also features their signature 'Timothy Foxx' embroidery on the back over a bold printed number four design incorporating a stag head in Forrest Green. RRP: £42. www.timothyfoxx.co.uk

The single-breasted Isla Jacket breathes new life into a wardrobe classic, featuring oversized turn-back cuffs and matching elegant high collar in a stunning Tan corduroy set on backdrop of Foxglove Blue, Mustard and Tan plaid tweed. RRP: £335. www.timothyfoxx.co.uk This Otto Schumacher Crystal Belt features a bold parade of Swarovski Crystals throughout its elegant design.

The belt comes in black leather, back patent and white. The perfect partner to your competition breeches or jeans.

RRP: £189.

Black Patent: RRP: £234. www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

Grubs Rainline boots received the highly commended accolade in the Country Fashion and Footwear section in the BETA International Innovation Awards 2015, seen by the judges as a revolutionary product totally new to the industry. www.grubsboot.com

The Cheltenham Ladies Collection pays homage to the stylish race-going ladies who flock to this great city and focuses on feminine shirting with fashion tailoring.

Offering the same exceptional attention to detail and beautiful design as in their popular men’s shirting collection, the women’s shirts are translated through a slimmer silhouette with a more feminine cut.

The inside of the collar, cuffs and the placket feature the brand’s bold signature ‘galloping horse and rider’ graphic print (harking back to the brand’s graphic designer roots) and is also featured through embroidery on the chest.

The Freddie Parker name embroidery on the hem and final contrast button complete this shirt’s allure. Sizes 10–18.

Available in Candy Pink Stripe, Pure White, and Candy Turquoise Stripe. RRP: £65. www.freddieparker.com

ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 17

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FASHION: SUMMER COLLECTIONS

Good looks from Dublin New Dublin Apex Zip Jodhpur Boots are made from a high quality, full grain, soft feel leather upper, with classic styling that includes antique brass YKK zip and embossed leather boot pulls. The unique RCS Platinum footbed provides optimum comfort, shock absorption and support. They incorporate a sweat control lining, shock absorbing heel cushion pod and contoured heel and arch support. While the technically engineered rubber outsole is not only slip resistant and durable, it offers enhanced flexibility. Colours: Black, Brown. Size: 4/37 to 8/42 RRP: £114.99

The new range of jodhpur boots from Dublin have classic good looks. But it's what you don't see that really counts. Three years of global research has gone into creating a range of riding footwear that promises all-day comfort and value for riders at every level.

Made from high quality leather, with comfort technology and featuring multiple style options, there’s sure to be a Dublin jod boot that meets your needs. Their true appeal is on the inside. The unique Rider Comfort System (RCS) is available in different technology and comfort levels to guarantee these boots feel as great at the end of the day, as they do at the start.

New Dublin Meridian Gaiters With their elegant Spanish top, these gaiters co-ordinate with the Dublin Apex and Summit Boots to give a sleek and refined look that is suitable to compete in. Made of soft, full grain leather, with a leather lining that offers superior breathability and close contact while riding. A stretch panel on either side of the strong and durable YYK zip, means these gaiters provide comfort through a perfect fit from day one. Colours: Black, Brown. Size: XSmall to X-Large RRP: £89.99

New Dublin Summit Zip Jodhpur Boots are made from a full grain, soft feel leather upper they include the RCS Ultra footbed for additional comfort and support. With the rubber outsole providing excellent grip and traction both in and out of the stirrup. Like the Dublin Apex Boots, they also feature Poliyou technology that enables the foot to breath, while the footbed is antibacterial, antifungal and fast drying, keeping your feet cool and dry even through the warmer months. Colours: Black, Brown. Size: 4/37 to 8/42 RRP: £99.99

New Dublin Elevation Boots Everyday boots, for all day comfort.

Available in zip jodhpur boots, with a YKK front zip, or pull on design, with Dublin branded boot pulls. These quality durable leather boots feature the RCS footbed with an enhanced cushion layer and a heel and arch cradle that offers comfort and support to those areas. The moisture wicking footbed and lining keep feet cool and dry. Also featuring a rubber outsole that provides grip and endurance.

Colours: Black, Brown.

Dublin Elevation Zip Jodhpur Boots Size: Adults 4/37 to 11/46 Adults £49.99 Dublin Elevation Jodhpur Boots Size: Childs 8/26 to 3/35.5. Adults 4/37 to 11/46 RRP: Childs £34.99, Adults £44.99

Dublin Foundation Jodhpur Boots Quality leather pull on boots, with branded pull loops for easy access. They feature the Dublin footbed, which has cupped heel and arch cradle to offer support and comfort. The rubber outsole is durable and provides grip.

Colours: Black, Brown Size: Childs 8/26 to 3/35.5, Adults 4/37 to 11/46 RRP: Childs £29.99, Adults £37.99

New Additions to the Dublin Jods & Breeches range The new Dublin Supa Shape It Denim Full Seat Breeches offer a beautifully tailored fit that flatters a more curvy shape, with a navel high waistband. Made from stretch denim fabric, with a Clarino full seat. With a stretch side panel on the lower leg, for improved fit and comfort as it helps to reduce bulk and rubbing under long boots or gaiters. Also available in Clarino Knee style.

Colours: Dark Blue Sizes: Ladies’ 8/26” – 18/36” RRP: £64.99

The new Dublin Supa Heritage Clarino Knee Mens Breeches are ideal for competing, schooling or everyday riding. Made from a highly breathable and durable woven, Heritage fabric, these breeches provide great four way stretch. Ideal for the more traditional rider that likes a woven fabric, they feature Clarino knee patches for extra grip and durability and touch tape fastenings at the base of the leg for ease of fit. With two front pockets and a single back pocket with popper closures.

Colours: Beige, Navy, White Sizes: Mens 30” – 38” RRP: £59.99

The new Dublin Supa Slender Classic Melange Jodphurs are made from a highly breathable and hard-wearing knitted fabric. These jodhpurs are extremely soft to the touch. Ideal for everyday riding, they have a self-strapping knee. Stylishly tailored, for the slender rider, they have a narrow waistband with belt loops, which sits below the navel. The melange fabric, where two different tones of the same colour fibre are used, gives a fashionable look to bright colours without looking too bold!

Colours: Chilli Red, Imperial Blue, Jade, Mulberry Sizes: Ladies’ 8/26” – 18/34” RRP: Plain £31.99

To find out more about the New Dublin Collections, or find your nearest stockist, visit www.dublinclothing.co.uk 18 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

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NUTRITION

DIFFERENCE IN

Why feed a balancer?

Equine diets have evolved dramatically in the last fifteen years; this is mostly due to the type of ‘work’ that we now ask horses to do. Originally horses were fed a basic fibre diet with oats if they needed extra energy, not forgetting a good ‘bran mash’ on their day off.

We are now much more knowledgeable about the equine digestive system and feeding bran has actually shown to have a detrimental effect on horses. Bran has little nutritional value and has a high phosphorous to calcium ratio, which can actually cause calcium to be ‘leached’ out of the bones, compromising bone strength and leading to possible osteoporosis.

Horses are designed to mainly eat fibre, little and often, and this constant passage of fibre through the digestive system helps to ensure a healthy gut. In the wild, horses will graze for 18 hours a day on a varied fibrous diet that would include different types of grasses, herbs and even flowers. Many pastures these days are ‘managed’ by us and have little or no variation in forage types.

Many horses and ponies are turned out day and night during the summer months, this is why supplementing the diet of all horses and ponies with the correct level of vitamins, minerals and nutrients will help to ensure they are in the best possible health and condition, both mentally and physically, with a gleaming coat, emulating health from the inside out.

A lot of feed balancers compete with ‘numbers’ claiming that their balancer is the best as it has more ‘x vitamin’ than another.

This is not strictly correct as it is possible to increase the level of certain vitamins and minerals without any benefit to the horse.

Horses can only absorb a certain level of specific vitamins and minerals and any that are fed over this level are just passed through the system and excreted. Therefore you can simply be ‘throwing money away’ as these vitamins and minerals are of no additional nutritional benefit. Blue Chip balancers always contain the most beneficial forms of vitamins and minerals. Fruit

Product news...

By Blue Chip Feed Ltd derived vitamins are the most superior, with the fruit derived form of Vitamin E for example being 4-6 times more bioavailable to the horse than the synthetic form found in the majority of feed balancers. Minerals should be ‘chelated’ to allow faster absorption into the blood stream. When a mineral enters the digestive system it has to find a molecule to attach to, to allow it to pass through the gut wall.

Chelated minerals are already attached to a short chain molecule (peptide) which allows faster, more efficient absorption and ultimately maximum benefit to the horse.

Blue Chip Original is ideal for youngstock and horses and ponies in light to medium work. Blue Chip Pro contains elevated levels of vitamins and minerals along with a prebiotic and blood building formula which is ideally suited for the competition or veteran horse or pony. Blue Chip are the only company to produce a feed balancer designed specifically for Native Ponies; Blue Chip Original Native is ideal to maintain native ponies condition, and the elevated levels of soya oils and organic zinc alongside essential vitamins and minerals will help improve your Native Pony’s coat condition, mane, tail and feathers.

In summary, the Blue Chip range of balancers are designed to make your life easy, with no need for an array of separate supplements, as they contain everything your horse or pony needs to look in stunning show ring condition. www.bluechipfeed.com

Baileys Lo-Cal balancer is a cost effective option for ensuring the gooddoer or laminitis-prone receives a fully balanced diet. It contains a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals and nutrients essential for healthy hoof growth, including biotin, methionine, zinc and calcium, plus other essential amino acids to promote muscle tone and tissue integrity.

Baileys Performance Balancer was developed to ensure that the increasing number of working and competing horses receive optimum nutrition without adding to their waistlines. It contains performance levels of vitamins and minerals and Digest Plus prebiotic, to ensure gut efficiency and support fibre digesting bacteria. www.baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

20 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

BALANCERS

By Anna Welch, BVSc, BSc, MRCVS. Veterinary Nutritionist, TopSpec Whatever the level of work a horse is doing, he needs essential macronutrients (e.g. carbohydrates, protein and fat) and micronutrients (e.g. vitamins and minerals) to keep him healthy and support the work requested of him.

Feed balancers enable us to provide small, nutrient dense feeds which balance a high forage diet, helping to optimise digestive efficiency. Feed balancers enable diets to be tailored to suit a variety of horses and ponies with different nutrient requirements, simply by changing the type of balancer, quantities fed and the products they are fed with (straights, blends, chops or compound feed).

There is clear evidence that horses in hard work have much higher requirements for micronutrients than those at rest or in light work. However, one of the reasons that feed balancers are such useful products to feed to horses is that requirements for macronutrients are very often not needed in proportion to the level of micronutrients.

For example, you can have horses that despite hard work, do very well with their weight; broodmares which maintain weight even though they are heavily in foal or lactating; and youngstock who keep a consistent weight easily (often native types). Conversely, you can have horses in light work which do not hold condition; broodmares who struggle for condition; and youngstock whose requirements are not met by grazing and forage, and therefore need much higher levels of macronutrients supplied by their hard feeds.

So, it is much better to assess your horse’s diet from his workload bearing in mind his condition, rather than feeding according to workload alone.

There are a range of feed balancers available from TopSpec which cover all of the situations which may arise. A conditioning feed balancer will usually be higher in protein, often 25-30%, whilst a non-conditioning feed balancer is likely to have a lower protein level, 12-15%, and a lower Digestible Energy content.

For a horse in light work, a feed containing lower levels of micronutrients will be suitable. However, an assessment of condition is vital in order to decide on the most appropriate e.g. TopSpec Lite Feed Balancer would be ideal for a good-doer, whereas TopSpec Cool Balancer, which is a conditioning feed balancer, is better suited for those that need more condition.

For a horse in hard work, a feed containing high levels of micronutrients is necessary. Again, the most appropriate will depend on condition e.g. TopSpec Comprehensive Feed Balancer is best for a horse which requires more to maintain a good condition, and the supplements TopSpec All-in-One or TopSpec AntiLam, would be more suitable for those that keep a very good weight despite hard work.

For older horses, TopSpec Senior Feed Balancer is most suitable for those that struggle to maintain weight, whereas a low calorie version, TopSpec Senior Lite Feed Balancer, is perfect for those which remain good-doers.

Broodmares requirements can be met with one of a range of products, usually TopSpec Stud Feed Balancer is perfect but a good-doer would be better suited

by TopSpec Comprehensive Feed Balancer, which is fed at a lower rate.

For detailed and specific advice for meeting an individual horse’s needs, it is usually best to speak to an experienced nutritionist. www.topspec.com

TopSpec Cool Balancer provides a very palatable, safe and effective way to improve condition and topline without adding excess calories to the diet. It is a ‘Non-Heating,’ cereal-grainfree formula; with low levels of starch and sugar, plus good quality protein. It stimulates weight gain whilst delivering a formula that not only avoids exciting horses but also includes ingredients that may reduce anxiety and help horses relax.

RRP: £23.25

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NUTRITION

SUPPLEMENT VARIATIONS

Vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients play a vital role in the horses’ diet and optimal levels are essential for health and performance.

For example vitamins, especially Vitamins E and C, are an essential component of the immune system whilst minerals are a major component of bone and are required for nerve and muscle function. Whilst vitamins and minerals are present in forage and other feedstuffs, many horses may not be getting the intake they require due to factors such as soil type, time of year, age, illness, poor digestive function or level of work. For example, horses that are stabled may not have optimal Vitamin D levels as this is normally formed in the skin from exposure to sunlight, but can also be supplemented in the diet. For this reason, feeds may be fortified with vitamins and minerals and or many horses are fed a general vitamin and mineral supplement or a forage balancer. In addition, many of these supplements may

of vitamin C that cannot be absorbed by horses! Other supplements contain ingredients that are not required by the majority of horses and which could actually be detrimental. For example, iron is included in many vitamin and mineral supplements for horses despite the fact that forage based diets supply sufficient iron. In addition, iron does not stimulate red blood cell production and iron deficiency as a cause of anaemia in horses is extremely unusual. Supplementing iron may also interfere with uptake and regulation within the body. And when it comes to very expensive ingredients such as Vitamin E, the level in a supplement may be governed by

by Dr David Marlin price. Some vitamin and mineral supplements even contain ingredients which are illegal for feeding to horses under EU regulations, such as glutamine or contain other nutrients, such as digestibility chromium. For some ingredients great care enhancers (e.g. live yeast and mannan must be exercised. This is the case with oligosaccharides) or nutrients to support selenium as a high intake can lead to hair joint health (e.g. glucosamine and MSM). loss and abnormal growth of the hoof.

A typical supplement may contain more Selenium is usually deficient in most than 15 different vitamins (e.g. B1, B2, B3, forages and so supplementation is required.

B5, B6, B12, C, E, D, etc) and minerals (e.g.

With selenium problems may be more likely calcium, zinc, copper, manganese, iodine, to occur when multiple sources are fed (e.g. etc) and horse owners can clearly not be in forage, feed and from one or more expected to be able to know the individual supplements). vitamin and mineral requirements of their Why does there seem to be so much horse. Horse owners might therefore variation in formulation of vitamin and reasonably expect that the levels of vitamins mineral supplements? Some supplements and minerals in feeds and supplements are may be formulated to meet a price point based on sound science to ensure they are and as such not include the optimal levels both safe and efficacious. An examination of key ingredients as they are expensive. of the declared levels on a range of products Others are clearly formulated without an on sale for horses unfortunately shows that awareness of current legislation. And in there is tremendous variation. In some many cases the formulations appear to be cases the levels of an individual ingredient random with no clear basis for how the such as Vitamin C may vary from none up levels have been arrived at. to 20g per day! In addition, many Fortunately, there are good sources of supplements unfortunately contain a form

CASE STUDY: Tally Owner: Laura Barber Location: Northampton Colour: Dapple Grey Sex: Gelding Height: 17hh Age: 10 Breed: KWPN x ISH

22 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

Tally is in full work as an eventer, so he does a whole range of activities including jumping, dressage and fitness work. Over the winter months he is able to go out every day although only until lunchtime to save his paddock and prevent him from getting bored. In the summer he goes out at night. Although he is still relatively young, Tally developed ringbone in his right hind pastern aged 7, followed by osteoarthritis in his right hock aged 8. Both of these conditions were successfully treated with steroid injections and careful rehabilitation, but it means that I always need to be sure that his joints are being supported in the best possible way.

That is why I discovered Mobility Horslyx to supplement his diet, while also giving him access to the vitamins and minerals that he needs to support healthy joints.

Mobilty Horslyx contains Glucosamine HCl, MSM and Omega Oils; as well as a whole host of vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants. Tally has the 5kg Mobility Horslyx in the 5kg Holder in his stable, so he is able to go to it as and when he wants to. As well as the nutritional element, it also works brilliantly as a boredom buster.

Tally never comes out of his stable looking stiff, and hasn’t needed an injection in his problem joints for over 2 years. I have every confidence in feeding Mobility Horslyx as part of his regular diet routine, as I believe they have the perfect mix of being a palatable reward, supplemented with top class nutritional benefits.

Mobility Horslyx is available in 5kg and 15kg tubs and starts at £13.10.

For more information about Horslyx visit www.horslyx.com or call 01697 332 592.

DR DAVID MARLIN IS AN INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED EXPERT IN THE FIELD OF EQUINE PHYSIOLOGY AND SPECIALISES IN EQUINE NUTRITION AND TRAINING. HE HAS PUBLISHED OVER 200 SCIENTIFIC PAPERS AND CONSULTED FOR BOTH THE FEI AND IOC.

information that can be used to deliver levels of ingredients that are both safe and efficacious in vitamin and mineral supplements for horses. Whilst there are some gaps in knowledge, there are a large number of scientific papers which are summarised in publications such as the National Research Council Nutrient Requirements of Horses (2007), BASF Vitamins - One of the Most Important Discoveries of the Century (2000). More recently, the available relevant information on vitamin and mineral requirements of horses was also summarised in Equine Applied and Clinical Nutrition (2013). Thus, whilst tremendous variation exists between different vitamin and mineral supplements for horses on the market, there is a wealth of information, which if followed, should lead to more standardisation and less differences between supplements.

Nettex has just launched a unique initiative called the ‘Try It Club’.

Aimed at all riders and horse owners in the UK, the ‘Try It Club’ gives consumers a one off opportunity to buy selected Nettex Equine products at half the recommended retail price.

A series of monthly product trials will see club members being able to buy and try some of the popular Nettex ranges.

Consumers are encouraged to sign up via the Nettex website and will receive a welcome pack that gives them hi-viz vest, car stickers and lots of other goodies – all for free!

For more information call 01634 257150 or visit www.nettexequine.com

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COMPETITION

Win TopSpec Cool Balancer 12 lucky winners will each win a bag!

TopSpec Cool Balancer is designed for horses and ponies that need extra condition but no ‘fizz’ and that are in light to medium work.

Cool Balancer provides a very palatable, safe and effective way to improve condition and topline without adding excess calories to the diet.

Cool Balancer is a ‘Non-Heating,’ cereal-grainfree formula; with low levels of starch and sugar, plus good quality protein. It stimulates weight gain whilst delivering a formula that not only avoids exciting horses but also includes ingredients that may reduce anxiety and help horses relax.

Feeding TopSpec Cool Balancer improves the amount of nutrients that a horse can extract from his feed and because the horse can utilise more nutrients from forage the amount of concentrate that needs to be fed can be reduced. This benefits digestion and is a more natural way of feeding, leading to a more relaxed horse.

The forage to concentrate ratio is also improved because Cool Balancer is very nutrient-dense. It is fed in very small quantities, for example just 500g (approximately two beakers) a day for a typical 16hh middleweight weighing 500kg. A small amount of hard feed obviously leaves more space in the digestive system for forage than a large hard feed.

TopSpec Cool Balancer is available in15kg sacks, which last a 500kg horse for 30 days or a 250kg pony for 60 days. £23.25 - 15kg

For further information please contact the Multiple Award-Winning Helpline on 01845 565030 or visit

www.topspec.com To be in with a chance of winning, complete the coupon and post it to: Absolute Horse Magazine, Home Barn, Grove Hill, Belstead, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3LS. Alternatively, visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the ‘Competitions’ tab.

Deadline is 30th April 2015.

TOPSPEC COMPETITION Name.................................................................................................................................................................

Address.............................................................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................................................................

Tel:.............................................................Email:.............................................................................................

April 2015 pages 1 to 27_Layout 1 24/03/2015 08:20 Page 25

NUTRITION Product news...

TopChop Sport is a blend of specially selected, hightemperature dried, British grasses and alfalfa.

This very palatable chop is lightly coated with soya oil and is dust-extracted. It is ideal for horses and ponies needing a very palatable chop, perfect for fussy feeders including performance and racehorses.

TopChop Sport is dust-extracted and high-temperature dried. These two procedures minimise potential mould, making the chop suitable for horses and ponies with respiratory problems.

RRP: £12.25. www.topspec.com Stud Muffins contain a host of natural ingredients, including linseed, fenugreek and whole grains, the wholesome treats will continue to be handmade with the utmost care to ensure that these scrummy snacks are as healthy as they are enjoyable.

They come in a variety of pack sizes to suit every budget including new resealable bags for freshness. RRP: £1.20 to £9.99. www.studmuffins.co.uk

Coming soon to a store near you!

New simplyirresistible from Equilibrium Products is a healthy, delicious feed-topping and a first for equine nutrition.

Designed to liven up mealtimes and support a healthy gut, simplyirresistible is healthy, delicious and bursting with goodness. Each variety is packed full with an array of delicious tastes and textures, is full of natural plant antioxidants and contains a proven probiotic to support digestive health and help the horse get the most out of its feed.

Made from only natural ingredients and available in two tasty varieties, simplyirrestistible can be sprinkled on top of hard feed, chaff or forage to add flavour and variety to dull feeds.

High in fibre, cereal free and with no added sugar, simplyirresistible is a healthy treat that all horses and ponies can enjoy.

By carefully

selecting ingredients that combine great flavours, aromas and textures, simplyirresistible ensures that horses and ponies get maximum enjoyment at mealtimes.

Available in two delicious fruit and vegetable blends: Five Fabulous Fruits - with apple, apricot, strawberry, date and sultanas.

Five Virtuous Vegetables - with carrot, parsnip, pea, courgette and beetroot.

Price: £12.95 rrp for 1.5kg.

Visit www.equilibriumproducts.com for more information on the full range of simplyirrestistible feed-toppings.

Simply scoop is a handy and durable serving scoop, perfect for easy, fuss free measuring of simplyirresistible feed toppings.

This innovative scoop features a clever clip which allows it to be attached to the pack to help seal in freshness. It also means that your scoop is always where you need it, making it the perfect addition to your feed room.

Simply scoop is the ideal partner to the range of simplyirresistible tasty feedtoppings for ease of measuring each 50g portion and equally handy dispensing other ingredients.

Dishwasher safe. Available in 2 colour designs. RRP: £4.95 per scoop.

April 2015 pages 1 to 27_Layout 1 24/03/2015 08:20 Page 26

Herbs

AYURVEDIC

A RARE AND PRICELESS JEWEL IN NATURE’S CROWN

‘We are what we eat’. There is no getting away from the profound truth of this saying. The nutrients that animals and people derive from what they eat and drink provide the vital materials necessary for all the metabolic, bio-mechanical, reproductive and thought processes of life. Without these essential nutrients health status decreases and eventually life ceases to exist.

Today, more than ever before, attention is increasingly being focussed on the importance of correct nutrition to promote and support a healthy life style, longevity and vitality. Indian Herbs have investigated and developed the well-known and hugely successful Ayurvedic herbal tradition of India since the early 1950’s through the work of eminent veterinary surgeons, pharmacologists, biochemists, etc. The exact nature and mode of action of over 700 plant species are now fully scientifically understood and verified. Species-specific safe herbal formulations have been developed to provide the required balance of botanical nutrients to help promote and support not only every day good health and well-being but also more specific difficulties with health and temperament.

These herbal nutrients have been shown to support the body’s own natural processes of recovery and readjustment. In the UK today Indian Herbs products are widely used by leading veterinary practitioners, including university veterinary colleges, and top level competitors and exhibitors as well as large numbers of pleasure/leisure riders. The products consistently show that they have ‘the power to deliver’; their best recommendation comes from the often repeated comment of existing users - "My horse and I don’t know how we managed before we used Indian Herbs products; we cannot be without them now!"

Products can be used on a daily basis and/or on a periodic basis according to the need. They can be used to tackle a wide variety of health concerns either on a short-term basis or in the longer term as required. For more complex problems a programme using several products will be needed as these work in synergy to support all the underlying health issues.

Examples of health concerns which can be supported are: Laminitis; Equine Metabolic Syndrome (E.M.S.); Cushings syndrome; Mud fever; Rain Scald; Itchy heels, grease and foot stamping; Hives (Urticaria) and other skin

by Ann Townsend B.Sc.(Hons.) of Indian Herbs Equine allergies/problems such as photosensitisation; Lymphangitis; Set-fast/tying up; Sweet Itch; Seasonal Head Shaking; Equine asthma (pollen and dust related); Recurrent Airway Obstruction (formerly known as C.O.P.D.); Musculo-skeletal problems such as lameness and arthritic tendencies, muscle tightness and loss of flexion, etc.; Digestive/metabolic issues; Sarcoids; Compromised immune response and associated problems; Stress-related issues affecting behaviour and physiological processes; Sand colic and other forms of digestive tract impaction due to ingestion and compaction of soil material within the tract; Liver problems; Kidney problems; etc.

Indian Herbs also produce herbal products for external use including a purely herbal shampoo (no chemicals or detergents) for horses and dogs as well as herbal skin creams and a hoof dressing which moisturises and sanitises the whole of the hoof area. The canine and feline products are in the form of capsules and syrups and have proved very successful with both family pets and show animals; the latter have shown improvements in their performance and appearance as a result of using the products as part of their health regime.

The products have been shown to be safe to use alongside, following on from or even instead of conventional veterinary therapy, depending on individual circumstances, and do not contain any banned substances. Whatever the health reason, and whatever the season, Indian Herbs Equine can provide the relevant product(s) to tackle the problem and aid the natural recovery processes. If you haven’t tried these products yet give Indian Herbs a try; you won’t be disappointed and will soon realise what a real ‘treasure’ these products are in your equine and small animal health management regime.

Go ‘green’ and give the green light to safe, natural, proven, researched health care products. Go to Indian Herbs in order to experience this unique and exciting fusion of the best of Mother Nature’s botanical larder and advanced scientific innovation.

Please call Indian Herbs Equine on 01249 760664 at any time. We always provide a dedicated care plan for owners to follow for their horses, dogs and cats when using our herbal products. We look forward to hearing from you and assure you of our best service and attention at all times.

Indian Herbs Equine - a principal importer/ distributor of the full range of Indian Herbs Ayurvedic products since 1992.

Products for equine, canine and feline health care as well as practical support and advice for their human carers.

Q&A

Muck heap management

As Equisorb user Linda Sumpner says, "I am very impressed with how little Equisorb bedding I use and how small the muck heap is. I don't have huge piles of shavings to dispose of and I can spread the Equisorb Flax mulch straight onto my garden." This short quote says a lot about a muck heap for horses. How do you manage to put less in to your muck heap? By having a bedding with high absorbency and therefore, less waste. Also by having a good mucking out procedure, thus minimising waste. When the bedding is in the muck heap, what factors are important? Having a bedding with a high biodegradeability (the pace at which the bedding decomposes). Equisorb Flax, coming from a naturally grown vegetable crop, breaks down rapidly in the muck heap and forms a friable, usable compost within weeks rather than months.

So, the combination of high absorbency and rapid decomposition enable you to use less bedding (and thereby waste less) and having established a smaller muck heap you have one which breaks down into a disposable form so much quicker than other materials. Thereby, you have a bedding which provides comfort for the horse ( nice, clean, dry bed) and the compost can feed your garden or your neighbouring farmer’s land.

26 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

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LAMINITIS SPECIAL

GUT MICROFLORA DR TOM SHURLOCK OF BRITISH HORSE FEEDS, DISCUSSES NEW RESEARCH INTO THE....

OF LAMINITICS

Laminitis, like many conditions, is a description of the effect rather than its cause.

That is the condition is an inflammation of the lamellar and may be caused by a number of factors including physical damage, bacterial toxins (disease), metabolic conditions – EMS, IR and Cushing’s Disease - and diet.

In the case of diet, nutritional imbalance can trigger an effect, but the best-known “culprit” is probably the feeding of excess non-structural carbohydrates, such as starch or fructans.

This generates high levels of lactic acid, which increases the absorption of negative factors from the hindgut.

What is a common factor is the inundation of tissues with oxidative, inflammatory, toxic and vaso-constrictive parameters in the extremities (limbs) due to – in part - reduced circulation, compared to the body core.

Why then are non-structural carbohydrates particularly implicated whilst structural ones (fibres) are not? The answer is relatively simple. It depends on the microbes in the gut.

The gut of the horse has three major areas; the stomach, the foregut or small intestine and the hindgut. In order to process the fibrous food that is its natural diet, the hindgut is disproportionately large compared with the rest of the gastro-intestinal tract and acts as a fermentation chamber. The stomach produces acid to condition feed – especially to denature protein and initiate the breakdown of starch, while the small intestine bombards feed with enzymes and absorbs the resultant nutrients. This means that the large intestine deals with those nutrients that aren’t absorbed or cannot be broken down by the horse’s enzymes.

“We do

do

cats gs and

too!”

It is a combination of the available nutrients and the acidity along different portions of the gut, that dictate the populations of microbes, from acid loving lactobacilli in the stomach, to more basic preferring cellulytic bacteria in the hindgut. In conjunction with recent research, that 15% of starch, 10% of oil, up to 70% of protein and 95% of fibre leave the small intestine undigested, the hindgut is major area of fibre fermentation. Whilst there are 100’s of cellulytic bacteria per ml in the stomach and small intestine, there are millions per ml in the large intestine. However the numbers of lactic producing bacteria and lactic utilising bacteria do not change significantly along the length of the intestine.

This means that, in a normal horse, whilst the starch and sugars that are not digested are broken down to lactic acid along the length of the gut, the lactic utilising bacteria take this lactic acid and convert it to volatile fatty acids, or slow release energy. Even when the starch level of a diet increases, the relative numbers of the lactic producers and lactic utilisers remains relatively constant and so there does not appear to be a nett increase in lactic acid in the hindgut. Obviously this is a fairly simplistic explanation, as there are many species of bacteria and other micro-organisms in the hindgut but the overall effect holds true: nett lactic acid production, irrespective of the diet (as long as it remains within reasonable limits) remains constant and so there is no “cue” to initiate the process of endotoxin absorption, vaso-constriction and inflammation. Meanwhile the cellulytic bacteria (and those that utilise other fibre structures) carry on generating slow release energy.

So why is the laminitic different, and why is it that individuals come down with laminitis whilst their pasture mates seem immune?

Recent research has shown that there are two major effects at work. Firstly, dietary change.

In intestinally diseased horses there is a concomitant decrease of fibre utilisers (Fibrobacter, Ruminococcaceae) and a rise in lactic producers (Lactobacilli, Bacilli, Streptococci) in the hindgut, whilst lactic utilisers (Veillonellaceae) remain constant. Nett result is increasing lactic acid and endotoxins from the destruction of the fibre users.

The second factor is probably the decider, in that it appears to be that which determines whether a horse will be laminitic or not.

Continued over page ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 27

April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 08:04 Page 28

LAMINITIS SPECIAL Continued from previous page Laminitic horses have a higher diversity of hindgut microbes than “normal” horses.

Researchers publishing their work in BMC Veterinary Research discovered that, using the diversity index of OTU, that laminitic horses had around 20% greater diversity of species. Because of the complexity of microbial systems it is not possible to identify them all but the research concluded that not only were there large differences in the numbers of microbes common to laminitic and normal horses, but laminitics also had far greater populations of two Clostridiales genera.

This research is in early stages, the authors pointing out that many species are uncharacterised and future investigation is warranted, but identification of species such as some similar to Mitsuokella jalaluinii – which has been shown to generate massive amounts of lactic acid (22.6 mM compared to 3.7 mM from Lactobacillus delbrueckii) – indicates how diversity may upset the lactic producing/lactic utilising balance.

We are still some way from being able to identify laminitis potential from hindgut microbial proportions, but we are moving in the right direction.

For more information on Fibre-Beet or SpeediBeet please contact British Horse Feeds on 01765 680300 or visit www.britishhorsefeeds.com.

Blue Chip advises...

Horses and ponies that are predisposed to having an attack of laminitis need to be carefully managed especially where diet is involved. A laminitic attack may be caused by numerous factors which can include trauma, concussion, sequel to infection or excessive intake of grass or hard feed.

Laminitis prone horses and ponies will require a controlled diet which may include restricted grazing with the use of a muzzle and longer periods being stabled. Horses and ponies that are susceptible to this crippling disease must never be starved as this can result in hyperlipaemia, where stored fats are released into the bloodstream and can cause organ failure.

However it is vitally important that these horses and ponies still receive plenty of fibre, which can be soaked to reduce the calorie content along with a balanced diet.

Blue Chip Lami-light is a low calorie, low sugar, low starch, diet feed balancer that will provide all the essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients without encouraging any unwanted weight gain.

Lami-light is whole-cereal and molasses free and contains a complete hoof and respiratory formula. Laminitis prone horses or ponies often have poor hoof quality, which is why feeding a complete hoof supplement that includes biotin, methionine and zinc can play an essential role in the recovery and continual health of the hoof. Nucleotides are especially beneficial to laminitics as they aid the repair of the laminae, which are often damaged by laminitis attacks. Nucleotides also help to aid nutrient absorption which is beneficial to

horses or ponies on a restricted diet. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and the cells first line of defence, again especially beneficial to horses or ponies with laminitis. Blue Chip contains a natural, fruit derived form of Vitamin E, which is 46 times more bioavailable than the synthetic form used in other feeds, this will help remove toxins that are released during a laminitis attack.

To find out more information on Blue Chip Lami-light visit www.bluechipfeed.com or call 0114 2666200

Laminitis is equine enemy number one Petplan Equine’s latest claims’ statistics show that the specialist horse insurance provider paid out claims for laminitis in each of the 12 months of 2014 amounting to almost £370,000.

Greater understanding about this debilitating condition means year-round management makes prevention increasingly possible. Petplan Equine’s veterinary expert, Gil Riley MRCVS shares the latest veterinary findings into the causes of laminitis and what horse owners can do to prevent it.

It is not surprising that laminitis is always in the top three most common claims Petplan Equine receives with each case amounting to around £1000 in vets’ fees. Laminitis, inflammation of the laminae, the soft tissue structures of the hoof, is most common, painful and debilitating condition affecting horses and ponies in the UK. Laminitis causes a profoundly lame horse with heat and increased digital pulses in the affected feet. Sometimes it is so distressingly severe that the affected animal cannot stand and must lie down constantly.

The mechanism by which laminitis occurs has been the topic of enormous research

28 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

over the last twenty years and our knowledge of the causes and in turn how it can be prevented, has truly undergone a revolution. Once associated only with the times of the year with better grass, we must now consider it a year round threat and must remain vigilant at all times. We have always known that sudden intake of high sugar food can predispose to laminitis but it is only now we can explain the role of hormonal mechanisms. We have also always been aware that being overweight increases the risk of the condition and now we know this is because they are prone to “Insulin resistance”. Insulin is the hormone that instructs cells to take up glucose from the blood; in days gone by, due to the paucity of available food, animals would

thin over the autumn and winter before putting weight on again in the better times of the year. However, with the supplementary feeding we now perform over the darker months, animals kept in excessively good condition have a constantly high glucose. In turn there is a constant secretion of insulin and in some of these cases the animals’ cells simply cease to respond to it; i.e. they become resistant.

In the face of this, the body produces even more insulin in a vain attempt to lower the blood glucose and these increased levels of insulin can have adverse affects on the blood supply to and within the laminae which leads to laminitis. The situation of an obese animal with insulin resistance is described as Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and while we have a number of drugs which can be helpful, ultimately there can only be a long term cure in such cases if the animal loses significant weight.

Another very important hormonal disease that frequently causes laminitis is Cushings disease. Cushings is a result of a dysfunction in the Pituitary gland of the brain resulting in excess amounts of steroid in the body.

The high levels of steroid can again affect circulation to the feet and result in laminitis.

Cushings is mainly a condition of older animals although we are aware now that much younger animals can be affected.

Often the animal’s appearance can betray the presence of Cushings - the pituitary is responsible for the release of other hormones besides the one leading to steroid production and one of these causes hair growth. Thus affected horses can have a “woolly” coat besides unusual fat deposits, vulnerability to infection and of course laminitis. A reliable blood test now exists as does a reliable treatment so a condition that in the past was once basically a death sentence has been transformed into something we can more often than not manage very well indeed.

Laminitis is public enemy number one in the fight to maintain the health of our horses and ponies and the good news is that we can play a huge role in determining whether our animals are at risk. Prevention is definitely better than cure when it comes to laminitis so: monitor diet and your pony or horse’s condition regularly using a weight

April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 07:56 Page 29

“My pony has re cently been dia gnosed with Eq Metabolic Synd uine rome so what co nsiderations sh give to his feed ould I ing regime?”

CASE STUDY: Mickey Elim-a-Net, the original slow feeding haynet, has a unique Inner Net Design, which alters the size and shape of the holes to prevent rapid forage consumption and encourage a trickle feeding pattern. Rebecca Donnelly has found Elim-a-Net invaluable when it come to helping control the weight of her 11.3hh Welsh Section A gelding, Mickey.

“Mickey is your typical greedy pony and could live on thin air if it was possible! It is hard to keep the balance of good condition for the show ring, without him becoming overweight and at risk of getting laminitis. I am very conscious of keeping his digestion healthy so starvation or long periods without hay is not an option for him.

“I discovered Elim-a-Net after Mickey’s first (and hopefully last) bout of laminitis and have not looked back. It keeps him occupied in his stable, or in a well-grazed paddock, for much longer than a traditional haynet and because I can buy him the Pony size it is holds the perfect quantity for him. I now weigh his Elim-a-Net each day in order to make sure his intake is consistent and we can offer him a constant supply of forage in small amounts, which helps support his gut health, whilst also keeping his tummy and weight in check! I use Elim-a-Net all year round and his weight has never been so stable!”

Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is a term used to horses that is esse describe a conditi ntially caused by on in insulin resistance. includes horses wi Horses with EMS, th Cushing's dise which ase (also known to laminitis. as PPID) are espe cia lly prone With the exceptio n of horses sufferin g from PPID, mos normally overweig t horses with EMS ht and are usually are described as easy maintain weight keepers, that gain with very little fee or d. They require a carefully managed low energy diet th to help prevent an at is y additional weig encourage some ht gain, and to ho weight loss. A high pefu fibre diet should hay that offers a be fed choosing sta lly lower nutritional lkier value and it is a go it before feeding od idea to consid as it has been foun er so aking d th eliminate 56% of at soaking hay fo r up to an hour ca its water-soluble carbohydrates. n Spring can cause a significant prob lem for EMS horse grass growth, and s when we see a flu if a lot of grass is sh of available strip graz horses total grass ing will help limit intake as will perio the ds of turnout in a A diet that contain grazing muzzle. s a non-structural carbohydrates (N sugar and starch SC), which include content in horse the feeds, of less than recommended to 12% on average control the blood per feed is insulin levels and laminitis developi help prevent the ng. Forage 'n' Fib risk of re from Rowen Ba that is recommen rbary is one such ded for horses wi pr oduct th EMS. Containing a natu ral blend of forag es and fibres it he all the necessary lps provide the ho nutrients require rse with d for overall healt energy levels low. h and vitality whils This ideal for good t ke eping doers who are of grazing as Forage ten put on restrict 'n' Fibre is ideal to ed use to help balan supplying all the ce the forage give essent n, calories to a minim ial vitamins and minerals whilst ke eping energy and um.

Telephone 01948 880598 or visit ro wenbarbary.co.uk feed advice to lea today to get the rn more. latest

Elim-a-Net is available in Pony, Cob or Horse size, priced from £10.99. For more information and to find your local stockist visit www.parellproducts.com or call 07715 172 470.

all year round tape and take pictures for records. Condition score on a fortnightly basis paying particular attention to the fat laid down around the crest of the neck which can be strong indicator of laminitis If you are unsure talk to your feed supplier/dietary advisor and your vet - they will be able to advise on diet,

management and perform the appropriate tests that will allow treatment to be commenced before laminitis strikes.

For further information on laminitis and other conditions that may affect your horse visit www.petplanequine.co.uk/laminitis.

Lamigard XXXtreme Paste provides powerful anti-oxidants to support the health of the feet, alongside targeted nutrition to encourage general health. RRP £31.31. www.equine-america.co.uk

vitamunch can form part of the diet for a laminitis–prone animal because the quality assured high fibre, low calorie, low sugar composition, and added vitamins and minerals fit with published dietary recommendations for laminitics. vitamunch RRP: £2.95; Munch Net: £2.95. www.equilibriumproducts.co.uk

Formula4 Feet is a supplement for horses and ponies with poor hoof horn quality or laminitis. It is GM free and highly palatable with a blend of three powerful anti-oxidants and two rate limiting amino acids, lysine and threonine. RRP:£34.99 and £89.99. www.equilife.co.uk

ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 29

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Vetwatch February 2015 on a friend’s hunter Hugo - his first time hunting side saddle! Photo: Bernard Hand

SIDE SADDLE y first introduction to side saddle riding was as a young girl visiting the Royal Dublin Horse Show with my family. This show is the highlight of the showing season in Ireland and only the cream of the crop may compete there, meaning those lucky few who get to those hallowed rings have reached the pinnacle in their showing career. It was there one hot August day that I first watched a Ladies Hunter class with a mixture of awe and admiration. Handsome Hunters galloped past ridden by beautiful and brave girls. I decided there and then that one day I too would ride side saddle in that show ring.

After much pestering I persuaded my Mum to buy me a side saddle to fit me and my pony Fairy. We searched and searched and finally we found the perfect one, a beautiful Champion & Wilton previously owned by a famous lady rider called Patricia Hanson.

She was one of the founding members of the side saddle association and many times

M

30 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

Champion at the was half Arab and Dublin Horse Show. I half Connemara and felt so lucky and was the perfect side privileged to have saddle mount being been given the a pretty chestnut opportunity to ride in mare, wella famous saddle! mannered with This was the beautifully smooth beginning of my paces. The highlights venture into the of our time together world of side saddle include winning which over the years Reserve Champion since then has at the Irish National developed into a Championships as passion for all things My sister and I on our first ever day hunting side well as a photo out “sideways” as I hunting making the saddle with Kilkenny hunt in 1996. realised I had been front page of the well and truly bitten by the bug!

Irish equivalent of Horse & Hound!

Together Fairy and I learned the art of side When I was old enough I had my first ride saddle – initially while I learned we did in the Ladies Side Saddle class at the Royal everything from hacking out at home, Dublin show on a friend’s beautiful grey lessons and clinics with experts to cross mare - my dream come true! But my country schooling. We progressed to ultimate aim remains to compete at the showing and Working Hunter classes and in Dublin Show on my own home bred and our first winter went hunting and produced Ladies Hunter. completed long distance charity rides. Fairy When my sister and I began hunting our

ponies side saddle in Ireland many years ago we were quite a novelty at our local hunt, the Carlow Farmers, and due to this were invited to visit neighbouring packs for specially arranged days. But nowadays hunting side saddle has experienced a huge surge of new interest helped by more and more ladies wanting to try and hunts hosting meets especially for ladies. I've been lucky enough to have visited in Ireland the Meath, Galway Blazers, Limerick and Ballymacad hunts and in England the Quorn, Bicester, Berkeley, Beaufort, Ledbury, Dunston, West Norfolk and Waveney to name a few! Even today my sister and I have retained a bit of novelty factor as we are the only sisters hunting side saddle and quite often seen out as a pair! On any outing together there is always a bit of friendly sibling rivalry between us to get that coveted photo jumping the biggest hedge of the day! Despite the fact that we look quite similar under our veils one can easily see which of us is which as we each have quite a different style of jumping! It helps too that according to the

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BROOKE EQUINE CLINIC strict side saddle dress code etiquette I as a married lady wear a top hat and Sarah wears a bowler!

Despite the thrill, excitement and sense of achievement that I get from a day hunting side saddle I still thought that I could try something new, more dangerous and twice as exciting! So along with a selection of other brave ladies I have taken part in the Diana's of the Chase Race for the last two years. This race is the only side saddle race in the world and was revived in 2013 by Philippa Holland. It is held over 3 miles of Leicestershire hunting country with hefty hedges and stiff rails as jumps. I rode a friend’s hunter who despite being a brilliant galloper and jumper just couldn’t quite keep up with the Thoroughbred entries who took the first few placings! But success and happiness for me was getting my horse and I around safely and thoroughly enjoying myself in the process – it was quite an adrenalin rush which I hope to

Bungay Road, Brooke, Norfolk NR15 1DX Tel: 01508 558 228 www.chapelfieldvets.co.uk

attempt for the third time when the race is run again this coming November.

In the summer months showing classes, dressage, concours d'elegance and costume classes have kept me busy. The ultimate aim for anyone who shows side saddle is to compete at the National Championships held every August. This event is a side saddle fans dream come true – 3 whole days of only side saddle classes with everything from dressage to jumping, fancy dress to the “champagne challenge” (carrying a glass of “champagne” while side saddle with the winner the one who spills the least!). An ultimate goal of mine would be to one day compete side saddle at HOYS or Olympia.

Presently due to work commitments I do not have a horse of my own but instead have borrowed or hired but with the hunting season coming to an end I am very much on the lookout for a Ladies Hunter to get my showing fix this coming summer

Vet profile

January 2015 on a hireling from Karen Bamford.

Photo: Claire Owen, Attic Photography

with my ultimate aim to compete at the side saddle National Championships once again having had a lapse of 2 years as I have really missed the challenge, buzz and excitement of competing there.

A week in brief...

MONDAY I'm called to see an Irish sport horse that’s come in from the field lame in front. The owner said he'd been galloping around with his friend and she was worried he'd injured himself as she found an area of heat on his inside cannon. As I do with all lameness exams I started with checking his foot and hoof testers revealed pain at his toe. Once his shoe was removed I found a nasty deep abscess and poulticed it. This case taught me yet again not to overlook the foot even when the history and clinical signs point to somewhere else!

TUESDAY I'm asked to examine a horse with sarcoids in a difficult and unusual position on the inner thigh. I recognise them as a fibroblastic type

owner if he's unusually spooky to that side and she confirms he is. The brown spherical mass looks like a corpora nigra or iris cyst which is easily removed by laser ablation. notoriously hard to treat. I take photos for a specialist’s opinion on treatment. They will require a special cream to be applied for five days.

WEDNESDAY I attend an emergency call out to see a horse who's staked himself in the muscles of his hindquarters - it looks like he tried to sit on a fence post! The wound is very deep, through many muscle layers therefore I recommend he attend our hospital for repair of the laceration.

After 2 hours work he's stitched back together and goes home to his owners the next day.

THURSDAY While doing a routine influenza vaccination on a pony I notice something in his right eye. I ask the

FRIDAY A cob mare was brought to our hospital for a low grade colic that responded to painkillers but once these stopped she became painful again. Being winter in Norfolk sand colic was suspected and confirmed by an abdominal X-ray. The mare underwent surgery to remove 3kg of sand from her colon! She made a full recovery and went home quite a bit lighter to her family!

Name: Aoife Byrne Qualifications: Dr Med Vet MRCVS I graduated from St Stephens University in Budapest, Hungary in 2007. I had an internship at Anglesey Lodge Equine Hospital on the Curragh in Ireland followed by two equine ambulatory jobs before moving in 2010 to do a season of embryo transfer in Argentina and Gloucestershire. I then worked at Rowe Equine and the Equine Eye Clinic for 4 years before moving to Chapelfield Equine after getting married to Peter (who already worked there).

Length of time in practice: 8 years.

What got me interested in becoming a vet: Growing up on a small farm surrounded by all kinds of animals plus the scientific and analytical nature of solving a puzzle when the patient can't talk and tell you what’s wrong!

Hobbies: anything side saddle – from showing in the summer to hunting and racing in the winter.

Family: Husband Peter also a vet at Chapelfield. My parents and brother live in Ireland and my sister in London.

Favourite food: My Mum's roast chicken!

Favourite tipple: Sloe gin especially on a cold days hunting.

Funniest veterinary story: I was asked to examine a family pony who's belly seemed to be expanding despite a strict diet. The non horsey dad had bought his children this "nice quiet gelding" a few weeks before. On examination I found to my surprise and the owners shock (soon followed by embarrassment) that Jack was actually a Jill who a few weeks later produced a fine healthy foal!

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RIDE LIKE... Sharon Hunt

Practice makes

perfect!

T

he first event is now upon us, winter has flown by, and as usual there are always things that we wish we could have improved but the season is long and it's important not to peak too early!

Also a word of warning I suppose, that every year you see a few horses win their first few events and then not do anything again that season; in my opinion it’s all about pacing yourself and your horse. The ground can often not be quite as good as hoped in spring as the elements are often against us, so just because the time may be attainable (at a gallop!) doesn't mean you have to make it. The same can be said with lines and approaches to fences, often riders will all follow the same lines as everyone else, I would personally pick the best ground where possible and this could be to the right or left of a wider fence rather than the middle. Obviously with arrowheads then there is only one line, but do be sensible and within reason make life easier for your horse, it also should help them have more energy and ultimately less wear and tear, which can only be a good thing!

The last few weeks I make sure I have practised as many narrows and corners as possible, as it is amazing how rusty the horses (and us as riders!) can be. This is even more apparent when a few pre-match nerves kick in, and as the horses are generally fresh they can be easily distracted and take their eye off the fence ahead. It can also take a few runs to judge distances at speed again so mistakes are easily made, hence the need to practise and prepare.

We now have pillars in our indoor school, which are wrapped up so in the event of an impact nothing will get hurt! These pillars make fantastic practise for blind turns to fences. I suppose they are like trees but significantly softer! So I have started recreating XC style fences such as oxers to narrows on a turn and with the last element not visible until 2 strides away. This not only helps to find out which horses are happy to be 'surprised' by the narrow fences but also who hold their lines well and which horses drift left or right or simply just come against the hand. All of this needs addressing and working on, as everything ultimately affects the type of jump you get at the fence.

I would use straight lines to begin with for real babies and greener horses, which would be on a set distance to help guide them in, all we have to do then is keep them level to the fence and straight. If one

32 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

is very wobbly then 'v' rails up would be an option either side of the fence or on the floor running along side next to the fence.

Accuracy fences are much better to be ridden carefully, and taking off deeper than far away as the horse can get too long and potentially lose balance and run out. Make sure the distances are on the shorter than longer side to build confidence.

I would begin the turning to narrows with easy angles each way, usually with an oxer turning to narrow, but jumping in reverse the first time to make sure you get over the narrow to begin with. Then jump the more challenging way from oxer to narrow. The oxer opens them up and then the control comes into play with the turn and accuracy fence. I would always build up my horse's confidence with these exercises rather than testing them when younger and less experienced. In my opinion, practise makes permanent, so if you make it very challenging and they run out several times, then this is what they learn to do. So best to start correctly then! The older horses need to be challenged so I tend to work a straight line then build up to curving lines and 'blind' turns. These need to be tested to know what needs improving. They are always set on good distances though as I won't leave that to chance, and after all the distances should be good at events (sadly not always true though, sometimes course walks can leave us scratching our heads!).

The turns could be on a 's' shape bend, from right to left then right again or vice versa.

This exercise can be set up as challenging or as easy as needed depending on the experience and level of each horse. Turning sharp turns to narrows is the most challenging. The horse has to learn to listen

and respond in a relaxed way so that the stride pattern stays the same and doesn't alter with the quicker reactions we have to give them.

Hence the need for practise! If a horse is really struggling with submission of turning then I would break the exercise down and practice with poles on the floor to get the feeling without the pressure of the fence.

Hopefully relaxation will improve with practise then the jumps can be added again, maybe not skinnies to begin, but gradually making it a little more challenging with each session.

Generally though, if a horse has a problem with skinnies it is mainly due to one of several issues - poor lines so straightness cannot be achieved, or too much bend on approach, so straighter head and neck required. Also speed, too often people think speed will help, but this unbalances the horse and makes them more likely to run past things, or the consequence could be higher in head and neck so against the hand and not able to focus on the fence as well.

Also the opposite, going too slowly so the horse has too much time to assess the narrow ahead and not enough impulsion to get to the other side!

If you train with the motto 'practise makes permanent' then if things go well in training there is no reason why anything will go wrong at an event!

Photos: Terry Read

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RIDE LIKE... Beverley Brightman HORSeHAGe - SPOnSORed dReSSAGe RIdeR And TRAIneR, BeveRley BRIGHTMAn, TAlkS ABOuT BRInGInG On A fOAl.

Bringing on a Baby T

he upbringing of young horses to training them to be ridden is a complicated and ongoing challenge. However this challenge is well worth it when the end result is achieved and you are able to see the result of all the hard work you have put in. from the day your foal arrives and during the first few weeks of his life, he will learn more things in this short space of time than they will for the rest of their lives. Therefore it is crucial to get the start right and have a positive and exciting experience for both you and your animal in order to achieve a more rounded and happy horse.

There are six magic steps when it comes to the early handling of a new foal and they are simply there to teach manners and skills for when the foal grows up.

1) Leading Stroking and talking to the foal and mare are great, non-stressful

If the foal pulls the foot away, you must hold onto it until they stop and then place the foot gently down. This is to avoid them making a habit of pulling their feet away which can also lead to kicking.

4) Grooming Get the foal used to being touched and seeing his mother being groomed, and then groom him with a soft brush for short periods each day. This should be enjoyable and help to increase the bond between handler and foal.

5) Bathing introductions which also help to make the mare feel comfortable with you being around her and her new foal.

Putting on and removing the head collar is a good way to introduce the foal to being led and having his head touched.

This can then progress to leading the foal within a few days, to and from the field and in and out of stables, etc. The foal should be led from each side in order to get used to being handled from both sides.

Begin by rubbing down with a damp sponge and then eventually running the hose over the foal’s legs in warm weather, to let them get used to the sound and feel of water on their skin.

Some foals will play in the water and may find it all rather exciting.

6) Loading

The first step towards successful loading is simply to teach the foal to lead sensibly. Then show the foal around the trailer with the ramp down so they can see inside and have a nosey around. It shouldn’t be stressful – just a normal 2) Tying up Begin by putting a lead rope through the walk and stopping to look at the interesting trailer. This can gradually string on the tie ring, but nOT tying it. you can then progress to the foal being build up to walking up the ramp and back down and it may help for the foal tied up for short periods. Talk to him to follow the mare, if she is a good soothingly whilst tied up in order to loader. leave the jockey door open to keep the experience calm and positive. make the trailer feel less enclosed. Then simply walking up the ramp and 3) Handling feet standing still for a few seconds before Introduce your foal to having his feet walking out again until eventually the picked up and picked out, moving around them much like the farrier would. foal is able to load correctly and stand.

Assessing future potential. foals, even at this early stage, can show their potential for the future. you can look for evenness and correction of pace, elasticity, forwardness and looking for correct footfall. you can also see if they have uphill potential and carry themselves well!

Hopefully this early training will provide the basics for a well-mannered and good-to-handle individual before he progresses further as a yearling and is finally broken in as a 3-year-old.

High Fibre HorseHage A dust-free, bagged forage made from selected ryegrasses which have been allowed to mature before harvesting to attain higher fibre, lower protein and lower energy levels. It is lower in sugar than most hays and is suitable for riding and Pony Club horses, native ponies, veterans and those that are resting, convalescing or laminitic.

for more information on feeding your horse or pony, please contact the HorseHage Helpline on 01803 527257 or visit www.horsehage.co.uk

ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 33

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WORKING WITH HORSES

Building a career with BHS EXAMINATIONS provides affordable insurance and quality assurance to the instructor.

When a trainee has passed their PTT alongside their BHS Stage Three (including First Aid, Safeguarding and Protecting Children qualification and DBS checks) they can be called a BHS Assistant Instructor (BHSAI). Experienced While an individual can progress through instructors will continue with their Teaching the entire suite of exams there are also training and education and take the BHS The BHS examination structure develops specific opportunities to work through a Intermediate Instructors certificate before the commercial instructor from the start grooming and management structure, a progressing to the BHS Instructors of their teaching career by passing the riding and training route and a certificate (BHS Coaching element).

Preliminary Teaching Test (PTT), which teaching/coaching route. Engaging Many BHS members with their BHS now also includes the United Kingdom through this system will provide a teaching qualifications actually work on a Coaching Certificate (UKCC) Level 2 candidate with a recognised industry self-employed basis which gives them exam, through to the BHS Instructor qualification that is held in high esteem opportunities to ride/compete/train and (BHSI) and ultimately the BHS Fellowship by employers on a national and teach. Very few people choose to exam (FBHS). worldwide basis.

The PTT is an excellent starting point for specialise while they have the opportunity young coaches and many employers seek to ride and train both horses and people.

Looking after horses There are more than one million horses in this qualification in their staff. The PTT In conclusion, there is no short cut to the UK and someone needs to look after aspect combines teaching skills with both learning and understanding the customer care and service, which them! The career opportunities for theory and knowledge needed to work underpins the commercial needs for a grooming are across all areas of the with horses, but this has a limited use riding school.

Holding this industry. The BHS exam system in any equine job without relevant qualification allows entry onto recognises the skills required to undertake practical experience! Whichever the BHS Register of Instructors, this in a professional manner and on way you choose to gain these which also completion of the Stage Three exam, skills, an employer, or members can be accepted onto the BHS indeed a successful selfGrooms register. employed equestrian worker, A groom may also be able to ride and is likely to be the work horses, but this is not always a person with some requirement in some commercial areas years behind them such as studwork, therapy and veterinary in working actively rehabilitation, for instance. with horses, The Grooms’ Register supports the gaining experience development of this workforce and in all aspects of supports people (staff and employers) in horsemanship! employment, giving advice on contracts, working hours and so on. Being a BHS member gives access to a legal helpline and they regularly direct people to seek advice and guidance from both an employee and proprietor perspective.

Many young people

The British Horse Society has an established training and education structure that is designed to meet the needs of both trainee and employer. It is constantly evolving to remain modern and current to industry demands.

beginning an equine career will begin as a groom, and then progress in their career along teaching/training routes and maybe management roles. Some career paths should be transitory and the staff will move onwards and upwards as their skill and experience increases.

34 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

We caught up with Jackie Frost of Rural Recruitment East Anglia…

Rural Recruitment East Anglia has now entered its fifth year and as every year goes by I get busier whish is great.

Still primarily an Agency supplying private household staff such as Grooms, Housekeepers and Gardeners, I am now receiving more and more requests for private PAS, Office Managers and Farm Secretaries. I am pleased to say that I have filled the majority of these positions very quickly.

My fees are very competitive and the fact that I can be contacted most of the day including evenings and weekends does make the service rather more personal.

With fabulous new jobs coming in every week there is sure to be something for everyone!

The demand for good quality Grooms is as strong as ever and I have a variety of yards that now use Rural Recruitment East Anglia.

I have International Event yards, showjumping, hunting and family yards always calling me for reliable staff. Some offer accommodation and others a chance for the Groom to compete.

Most yards require a Groom who can turn horses out to a high standard so if your clipping, plaiting etc is a bit rusty or you have little experience, it would be a good idea to perhaps try and find somewhere to improve your skills – call me and I may be able to help you.

Visit www.ruralrecruitment eastanglia.co.uk or check out Facebook for the latest job vacancies.

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EQUESTRIAN ENTREPRENEUR Dragons’ Den TV star Deborah Meaden has revealed the secret behind keeping fit for her run two years ago in Strictly Come Dancing – horse riding.

“My dance partner told me at the beginning that my legs would kill me after the first week because I was doing 10 hours’ training a day,” she told members of the equestrian and country clothing industry at the BETA International trade fair recently. “But my legs didn’t hurt once because I ride regularly.

“I had no idea what riding was doing for my wellbeing and that’s something I feel quite passionate about. It’s really helped me in a busy life being able to keep my feet on the ground, feel fitter and be more toned and more active. That’s why I get so passionate about it.”

The entrepreneur told her audience at the NEC, Birmingham, that her parents had not been able to afford to buy a horse when she was a child. “So I used to ride ponies on Minehead seafront,” she said. “In return for walking up and down with them, I was allowed to ride them back to the stable at night. My childhood dream was to be a showjumper.”

Deborah Meaden, an ambassador for the British Equestrian Federation’s Hoof project, which aims to get more people riding, owns six horses – four of them retired ex-racehorses – and rides twice a day, four days a week. “I love riding and the challenges that horses bring,” she said. “There’s something very special about being around them.”

Her audience at the recent BETA event also received a few tips on launching and running a successful business. “For me, it’s about constantly spotting the opportunity, the ability to take an element of risk, and there’s a bit of bravery in there, a bit of stupidity and a bit of blind faith,” she said. “I don’t gamble, but I do take calculated risks.

“With any new business, the first thing I say is to write on an A4 sheet of paper our ideal customer, where they live, what they read, the way they vote, what they drink, which pub or restaurant do they go to. I want a picture of them. Are they open to being sold to?”

RURAL RECRUITMENT EAST ANGLIA EMPLOYMENT AGENCY

Are you looking for staff or are you looking for a job?

Just call Jackie Frost on 07979 501997 www.ruralrecruitmenteastanglia.co.uk FOR A PERSONAL SERVICE FROM START TO FINISH SPECIALISING IN: GROOMS MOTHERS HELP HOUSEKEEPERS/CLEANERS GARDENERS COOKS PAS/FARM SECRETARIES

ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 35

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SADDLERY By retailer Lucy Nicholas of www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

a further downside – inconsistency. Some items, usually stirrup leather or bridles, may have different thicknesses of leather, which can result in weaknesses. The standard ratio of stitches to inches is nine, 10 or 11 stitches per inch, depending on the item, so a section of leather with less stitches could be vulnerable to weakness over time. Plus, if you buy second-hand tack, which many of us do to save money, you have no real way of knowing the tack’s history, or what its breaking point is.

A further issue is that, as I know very well, customers and horse owners often need to source cost effective items in today’s economic climate. And there are lots of inferior, non-English leather items in the market today that are manufactured abroad. However, the finishing is rarely to the same standard as a more costly piece of crafted tack, with for example, the edges of an item not being rounded and sealed to close the fibres within the leather. This again may lead to weakness.

Wacky wetsuits

Tack talk

Are you faking it? We ask whether synthetic tack could be for you and your horse…

As a horse owner and someone that has been involved in the equestrian industry for many years, I have always enjoyed the thrill of buying new tack – and that wonderful smell of leather! As someone that ran a tack shop for over ten years, it is a wonderful sensory experience that will always stay with me. But don’t discount synthetic equipment...

Lasting a lifetime Leather tack has been a popular choice of tack for many years, and there’s no denying its durability – if well maintained, it can last a horse’s lifetime, with regular attention from a saddler to ensure the saddle fits, and a careful cleaning and maintenance regime.

One of the downsides of leather tack however can be its price – as good-quality tack has a price tag to match the

36 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

craftsmanship that goes into its production, particularly if it is handstitched. And while I will always be an advocate of beautiful leather tack, there is

Synthetic tack has been around for a long time and was pioneered in the 1980s; early saddles used a knitted fabric, the same material that was used to cover neoprene foam for wetsuits, and were laminated over a layer of foam. By the early 1990s, microfibre-based dressage saddles were developed.

to consumers, while at the same time, R&D into synthetic goods has increased, with materials such as Cordura, Equileather, Equisuede and Beta BioThane being developed and used by manufacturers.

Although each manufacturer uses their own, closely guarded materials for their synthetic products, most products today have a similar appearance, in my opinion!

I often recommend that customers choose synthetic tack over leather, especially if their budget for tack is in the mid-range. I would also add that many of the synthetic saddles available today have innovative design features that do appeal to many owners. These include changeable gullet systems and girth strap positioning, plus a choice of seat size and tree width, and scope to adjust the flocking. A great innovation is movable panel blocks that sit in front of your legs to help place you in an effective, comfortable position, and give bespoke support and comfort for your leg.

Synthetic V leather?

Over the last twenty years, inferior leather goods have increasingly become available

CLEANING TACK Synthetic tack: Synthetic tack is easy to clean – generally, a wipe with a damp cloth suffices. However if you have been hacking or eventing in bad weather, you may find that you need a cleanser to remove dirt, mud, sweat and more stubborn stains. One piece of advice if you do choose a spray cleanser for your tack is to choose the brand that matches your equipment. This is because the solution will be scientifically formulated to clean their own, branded material. If you do choose a generic product, I would suggest doing a small patch test in an unseen area of the tack, e.g. the underside of a saddle’s flaps, prior to initial use.

Leather tack: In an ideal world, we’d regularly take our bridles apart, clean with warm water and lovingly soap them afterwards with saddle soap, however many people like the easier two step products that come as a cleanser and conditioner, the former removing grease and build up, and the latter being some form of glycerine saddle soap. It will suffice to do a quick clean each time you ride, and then give it a thorough clean every weekend, as inspecting each individual piece of the bridle is a good opportunity to check for worn stitching. Obviously your bit should be cleaned and dried after each use!

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Hazel Morley of the Society of Master Saddlers answers your saddlery queries Q:, My horse is quite prone to losing weight, which means my saddle needs re-flocking regularly. Are there any simple checks I can do between saddler's visits to know whether the saddle fit is OK, or needs looking at urgently?

A: Keeping a close eye on your horse’s condition is very important throughout the year and it is great that you already have regular visits from your registered qualified saddle fitter.

There are a number of ways to check for saddle fitting issues in between those visits which are simple and easy to undertake during seasonal changes in your horse’s weight.

It is very important to make sure the saddle doesn’t pinch your horse if he puts on weight or sits too low on the withers due to weight loss.

Simply by running your hand under the saddle you can quickly learn what to feel and this will give you an idea if you need to call out your Society of Master Saddlers’ Registered Qualified Saddle Fitter before the date you have booked in your diary.

When it comes to simple checks these are best carried out both visually and by feel.

Putting your fingers between the pommel and the horse will give you a rough guide to if the saddle has dropped and is pinching the withers. A saddle that sits too high on the withers will be unstable and it will be ‘obviously’ visible that there is too much height between the withers and the pommel.

Anyone who is unsure whether their saddle fits correctly should immediately consult a Society of Master Saddlers’ Registered Qualified Saddle Fitter.

It could mean a visit every three months in cases where the horse is prone to losing or increasing weight rapidly whether just

moving into the summer or leaving the winter.

Top Five Tips 1 Check your saddle regularly rather than leaving it too late when damage can be caused.

2 The amount of space needed between the horse and the pommel of the saddle is ‘sufficient clearance’. The amount of space changes depending on the type of horse for example a wide flat backed horse will have much less clearance than a narrow high withered horse. As long as there is clearance throughout the length of the saddle at all times then this is ‘sufficient’.

3 Regarding feeling under the saddle, this is done to check the pressure is even throughout the underside of the saddle so you should be feeling an even pressure on your hand. If your hand is squeezed more in one place than another then there is more pressure in that place. It is important to do this both with and without the rider on board.

4 When organising their visit try to remember how your horse changes shape each year from season to season and when these are at their most extreme.

5 Consult the Society of Master Saddlers if you require more information 01449 711642.

Book your fittings in to avoid disappointment - spring time is another busy time As the dark afternoons draw to an end, this is when we all manage to find more time to ride, the grass begins to grow and our horses are really in their element. It is also a time that we have to be more aware of our horses muscle development, and weight as a result of their change of daily routines. Often a re flock is all that needs to be done to get a perfect saddle fit for your horse. All of his work needs to be carried out in a good fitting saddle. However, as you are asking more of your horse if you are competing you will see subtle changes have a big effect in his way of going, his resistance to work as well as his willingness. Sophie Rodger of Express Equine recommends that she sees all of her customers twice a year at least. Competition horses can change saddle fits in a matter of weeks at this time of year so it is always important to be ahead of any issues to prevent a sore back that will require time off.

ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 37

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NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP In this monthly column, EAST will be answering your questions on natural Horsemanship...

“ ”

What is the difference between a carrot stick and a whip?

Carrot sticks have had bad press, but they deserve a fair hearing.

A carrot stick is 4 foot long, made of fibreglass and is quite rigid. A whip on the whole is much more flexible‘whippy’. Both have their place in the tack room and both are very useful.

A carrot stick which is used in Parelli, in essence is a foundation programme, teaching the human to understand the horse using horse psychology and also remembering ‘common sense’ ideas which from time to time get lost!

Parelli teaches the horse how to understand certain pressures that he will be expected to come across in domestication - how to yield to pressure therefore the purpose of pressure becomes much easier - i.e. tying, leading,

loading, riding forwards, vet visits, etc.

understanding of them.

When helping the horse to understand pressures, a carrot stick can be a much better tool than a whip. for example horses can be naturally defensive of their legs - and rightly so - a lame horse is less likely to survive in the wild. So when taming a leg, for example, a carrot stick can be a better tool because of the rigidity and more solid feel which gives the horse a better response, but keeps the handler at a safe distance.

The name comes from Pat Parelli who wanted humans all over the world to think of the tool as halfway between a carrot and a stick - so not all about driving the horse forwards, not all about rubbing the horse and feeding carrots, but the perfect point between the two, which is different for each horse.

Carrot sticks are the same length (mostly) as a horses leg and neck and therefore a good tool for ‘pushing’ or ‘driving’ a horse around. ‘Carrot stick riding’ is taught within the Parelli programme and this develops a riders use of the seat and legs and the horses

They can be fiddly to handle at first, but a good horseman will have a variety of tools at his disposal and will use the most appropriate one at the time. All well-equipped tack rooms should have a stick like this.

For further information contact the Parelli UK team on 0800 0234 813 or visit www.parelli.com

EAST is a group of Parelli Professionals based in east Anglia who teach the Parelli Programme to individuals in the area, either with one to one tuition or group lessons. you can find more information or locate your local instructor at: www.parelliinstructors-eastanglia.co.uk

38 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

A day to remember!

More than 1,500 fans, supporters and many new to Parelli horsemanship techniques made it a day to remember with Pat, Linda and the Savvy Team at a packed Addington Manor Equestrian Centre recently.

Always great fun and inspirational, the Savvy Team included Paul Titcombe and 20-year-old Sparky, Jackie Evans and her Irish Draught cross Thoroughbred cross Welsh Section C, Merlin; 4* Parelli Professional, Alison Jones and Yellow; her partner David Zuend and the much admired Grey, and Rebecca Holloway with her Arab cross Thoroughbred, Katy.

The Parelli Savvy Camp is the place to be with four days of fun and games with your beloved equine friend.

Held at Keysoe Equestrian Centre in Bedford on 21st-24th August, the four day camp will be led by Swiss 4 star Parelli Professional, Walter ‘Wally’ Gegenschatz.

The camp will consist of a number of group lessons, workshops and makeovers to help you and your horse reach the next level in your Horsemanship journey together.

WIN A COPY OF THE N WE HAVE TWO COPIES OF PARELLI’S NEW LEADS & LEAD CHANGES DVD UP FOR GRABS! Pat Parelli guides you through the essential building blocks of reliable, fluid simple and flying lead changes.

As part of the Parelli Four Savvys Support Series, this educational DVD offers an indepth look at an important but often misunderstood skill, from concept to execution and all the way to excellence.

The new Leads & Lead Changes DVD is priced at £58.44 and for members £46.42.

BONUS! if you are already a member of Parelli Connect, this product is available now, to view in its entirety via the Learning Library.

April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 07:56 Page 39

Trailblazers Centre Focus – East Anglia Trailblazers Centres throughout East Anglia offer the full range of first and second round competitions.

The Trailblazers championship series encompasses show jumping, dressage, combined training and showing for both senior and junior competitors at various levels. There are a total of 11 Trailblazers Centres across East Anglia within the counties of Bedfordshire, Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire which provide many opportunities for local riders to qualify for the prestigious Trailblazers National Championships held at Stoneleigh Park from the 16th to 26rd July. Trailblazers has no joining or registration fee.

Bedfordshire The College Equestrian Centre Church Road, Keysoe, Bedfordshire, MK44 2JP Trailblazers disciplines: Dressage, Show jumping Contact Simon Bates on 01234 708400. www.keysoe.com

Norfolk Croft Farm Riding Centre, Thrigby Road, Filby, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR29 3DP Trailblazers disciplines: Dressage, Show jumping.

Contact Carla Alexander on 01493 368275.

Forest Edge Arena, Drymer, Swaffham, Norfolk, PE37 8AS. Trailblazers disciplines: Dressage, Show jumping.

Contact Penny Garrett on 01760 722616. www.forestedgearena.com Lime Kiln Farm EC, Thursford, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 0BL. Trailblazers disciplines: Dressage, Show jumping.

Contact Alison Lee on 07749 951898. www.limekilnfarmec.co.uk Overa Farm Stud, Swallow Lane, Larling, Norwich, Norfolk, NR16 2QX. Trailblazers disciplines: Dressage, Show jumping.

Contact Christine Cooper on 01953 714911/07867518716. www.overafarmstud.co.uk

Suffolk Topthorn Equestrian Centre, Grove Farm, Stonham Aspal, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 6BX. Trailblazers disciplines: Dressage, Show jumping.

Contact Nigel Foulger on 01449 711962/07785521436. www.topthorn.co.uk

Cambridgeshire Houghton Hall Equestrian Centre, New Manor Farm, Sawtry Way, Houghton, Cambridgeshire, PE28 2DU.

Trailblazers disciplines: Dressage, Show jumping.

Call 07812 214682 www.hheqc.co.uk Long Drove Dressage Centre, Long Drove, Somersham, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, PE28 3HY. Trailblazers disciplines: Dressage.

Contact Tara Osborn on 07971 187955. www.longdrovedc.co.uk

Essex Brook Farm Equestrian Club, Stapleford Road, Stapleford Abbotts, Essex, RM4 1EJ. Trailblazers disciplines: Dressage, Show jumping, Showing, Combined training.

Contact Jackie Jones on 07436 790885. www.brookfarmtc.co.uk Longwood Equestrian Centre, Dry Street, Basildon, Essex, SS16 5NG. Trailblazers disciplines: Dressage, Show jumping, Showing.

Contact Jenny Lewington on 01702 202520. www.longwoodec.com Norton Heath Equestrian Centre , Fingrith Hall Lane, Blackmore, Ingatestone, Essex, CM4 0JP. Trailblazers disciplines: Dressage, Show jumping, Showing.

Contact Toni Finch on 01277 824860. www.nortonheath.com A full list of Trailblazers dates and venues nationwide visit www.trailblazerschampionships.com.

YOUR CHANCE TO RIDE ROUND BURGHLEY For more information or to book your place telephone 02476 982252 or email UKcourses@parelli.com.

E NEW PARELLI DVD

For more information contact Parelli Natural Horsemanship UK on 0800 0234 813 or visit www.parelli.com To be in with a chance of winning visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the ‘Competitions’ tab. Deadline is 30th April.

The SEIB Burghley Sponsored Ride gives riders the opportunity to bring their horse to one of the world’s most prestigious three day events and also raise money for charity.

The UK’s most esteemed sponsored ride takes place on Sunday 6th September, on the final day of the world famous Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials.

Run over a 12km course, the SEIB Insurance Brokers Sponsored Ride allows participants to get up close to the daunting Burghley Cross Country fences including the legendary Dairy Mound and Trout Hatchery.

Riders will also enjoy breath-taking views over the magnificent Burghley House and have the chance to explore the tracks and pathways of the vast Burghley Estate.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for riders of all levels to ride round Burghley and raise money for charity at the same time.

Importantly, 100% of the money raised by participants will go to charity”, said SEIB Marketing Manager, Nicolina Mackenzie.

SEIB offers competitively priced insurance cover for a multitude of equestrian possessions and pursuits and the company has a long held ethos of putting something back in to equestrian sport. The company is also the sponsor and organiser of the hugely popular SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse show class held in the main arena

Jonathan Clarke Photography

also on the Sunday at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials.

Ride organiser, Ian Scott said, “The Burghley Sponsored Ride has been held 14 times and cumulative proceeds for charities is now over £180,000. We are hoping the 2015 ride will be as successful as the brilliant ride in 2014 when over £15,500 was raised and over 340 riders completed the ride”.

The SEIB Burghley Sponsored Ride is a great ride to do with friends, as a yard or club and, as it is open to riders 5 years and upwards, it is also the perfect event to participate in as a

family. The entry fee is £33 per rider and every rider is urged to seek as much sponsorship as possible in order raise a substantial amount for charities. Owing to the generosity of the event’s sponsors, SEIB, Stamford XT, Burghley Horse Trials and Burghley Estate, 100% of the money raised will go to equestrian and local Stamford charities.

Everyone completing the course will receive a special SEIB rosette and goody bag and there will be Burghley sponsored prizes for the most money raised. Local volunteers from Stamford ex-Tablers will provide marshalling on the ride. We can advise where to find local stabling via enquiries by email, and there will be an official photographer to enable you to buy a memento of your Burghley experience.

Entries are now open and a schedule and entry form can be downloaded from the website which includes options to enter and pay online at www.icommentate.co.uk/burghley or email burghleysponsoredride@btconnect.com for details on entering by post. Keep up to date and enjoy the fun in the build up to the big day, as well as uploading your own photos and anecdotes, by following on facebook at www.facebook.com/SEIB.Burghley SponsoredRide.

ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 39

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Giveaways READER

WE HAVE 5 TUBS OF THINK ITCH UP FOR GRABS

Brinicombe Equine has been supporting horses and ponies with sweet itch for the last four years. Unlike other approaches which only support the condition from the outside, Think Itch is a feed supplement which works from the inside to target the root cause. This natural formula contains antioxidants, herbs, minerals and nicotinamide to support the immune system and maintain natural histamine levels throughout the midge season. As well as supporting the immune system, Think Itch also contains Brinicombe Equine’s unique Repel-Ex herbal formula, a natural, in-feed fly deterrent which works throughout the whole system, helping to deter midges and flies from landing and biting on the horse. This unique two pronged approach to sweet itch is why Brinicombe Equine believe that Think Itch has proved such a success. In a recent customer survey, 89% of responders said that their horse itched less after feeding Think Itch, and 93% believed that it helped their horse during the summer months. A 4kg Think Itch, which is one month’s supply costs £41.20.

For more information call 08700 606206 or visit www.brinicombe-equine.co.uk

THREE PAIRS OF TICKETS TO EQUIFEST 2015 MUST BE WON! Held on August 12th to 16th at the East of England Showground, Peterborough this phenomenal event promises to deliver five amazing, action packed days and as the winner of this special competition you could be there.

Equifest features the most extensive range of showing classes to suit every type of horse, pony and rider, from heavy horse classes, to re-trained racehorses, coloured classes to miniatures, variety is key when it comes to this equestrian summer party.

You can be confident you’ll see a range of brilliant demonstrations and spectacular performances, as well as experiencing fantastic shopping and entertainment.

For further information call 01733 363500 or visit www.equifest.org.uk

WE HAVE 3 PAIRS OF HIGH PERFORMANCE JODHPUR BOOTS UP FOR GRABS The Outline jodhpur boots from Grub’s are ideal for riding and general stable work and are sure to keep your feet warm, dry and comfortable all year round. These boots combine the unique Insu-Foam Ultra technology with advanced 5.0 thermal engineering for a comfortable warm and dry fit and feature a brand new equine design with a tapered toe, athletic ankle cut and smooth hair grain rubber finish for an elegant look.

The new Outline equine sole with Hard Toe technology provides safety and grip designed for the riding environment in and out of the stirrups.

The cupped arch supports the heel whilst the positive heel stops the foot falling through the stirrup. They also incorporate the Hexzorb shock absorbing technology to help minimise shockwaves when dismounting and walking. The Outline boots are available in black and in UK sizes 48. They retail at around £59.00.

For more information call 01279 418052 or visit www.grubsboot.com

10 LUCKY READERS TO WIN TWO BAGS OF MOLLICHAFF HOOFKIND EACH Do you have a horse or pony that suffers from laminitis? Mollichaff HoofKind is a complete fibre feed designed for the nutritional support of horses and ponies prone to laminitis.

Mollichaff HoofKind is made from a balanced blend of high quality oat straw, dried alfalfa and fibre pellets and is topped with a light dressing of soya oil with added vitamins and minerals, trace elements, antioxidants and biotin. It is low in starch and sugar, high in fibre and does not contain any cereals. It is very palatable and so is great for fussy feeders and is suitable for all horses and ponies.

Low in protein and calories, Mollichaff HoofKind provides limited, controlled energy from high quality digestible fibre and oil based ingredients, making it an excellent feed for fizzy horses and ponies, or those that are good doers, as well as those that are laminitic.

It contains a broad spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement and when fed at the recommended levels to horses or ponies at rest or in light work, it needs no further supplementation other than good quality forage, such as High Fibre or Timothy HorseHage, which are safe to feed to laminitics.

For further information and advice on feeding call 01803 527257 or visit www.horsehage.co.uk

✁

TO ENTER, FILL IN THE COUPON AND RETURN BEFORE THE DEADLINE STATED.

I would like to enter the draw for: (tick all appropriate boxes and indicate prize preference where applicable)

Name....................................................................................................................................... Address....................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Postcode................................

Think Itch

Jodhpur Boots Size .......................................................

40 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

Equifest Tickets Daytime tel.......................................................Mob............................................................ Email: ..........................................................................................................

Which day you would like tickets for See page 3 for full terms and conditions. ...............................................................

Mollichaff Hoofkind

Post to: Absolute Horse, Home Barn, Grove Hill, Belstead, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3LS. Closing date: 30th April 2015.

Alternatively enter online at www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click the competitions page

s

April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 07:56 Page 41

❙ UK Riders Dressage ❙ Newton Hall EC ❙ 8th March

Carley Milbourne and Gunner, 4th place, Intro B

DRESSAGE / SHOWJUMPING PHOTO NEWS

Claire Harris and Forest, Intro B winners

G. Norman and Rocky L'Artemis, 5th place, Intro B

Dawn Chamness and Uptown Girl, 4th place Prelim 7

Linda Rowell and Sayette, Prelim 7 winners Helen Mann and Miss Fortune, 3rd place Prelim 7

Sue Westmore and The Footman, Novice 24 winners

Megan McKeary and De Graaf, 3rd place Novice 24

Molly Garn and Phoebe, 2nd place Novice 24

Jane Ackland-Snow and Donnie, 5th place Novice 24

Julia Green and Into The Party, 2nd place Intro B

PHOTOS: EASTERN LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

❙ Unaffiliated Showjumping ❙ Lime Kiln Farm EC ❙ 15th February

Georgina Pooley and Olly, Class 4 winners

Jenny Warne and Grand Persika, Class 7 winners

Shannon-Marie Watson and Hermes, Class 6 winners

Lily Newson and Pip, Class 2 Lead Rein winners Lucy Wood and Lily, Class 2 winners

PHOTOS: EASTERN LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 41

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HORSE TRIALS ❙ British Eventing ❙ Poplar Park EC ❙ 14th & 15th March

Josephine Gleeson riding Millfields Flight, 7th place BE90 - Sec A

Millie Gray riding Lad, 5th place BE90 - Sec C

42 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

Olivia Rodgers riding Future Gem

Nicky Robinson riding Coulant, 7th place BE90 - Sec B Chloe Winchester riding Ryans Robin, 9th place BE90 - Sec B

Paris Gainsford riding Hollypark Canon, 7th place BE90 - Sec C

Emily Uden riding Campion Capella, 6th place BE90 Sec C

Rosie Bates riding dot 2 Dot III, 2nd place BE90 - Sec A

Jordanna Lee riding Black Beautys Boy, 9th place BE90 - Sec A

Louisa Baker riding Banagher Blue Moon, 9th place BE90 - Sec C

Abi Jacobs riding The Jays Ghost In Cavalier, 4th place BE90 - Sec B

Simone Money riding Halaraafa

Tessa Halsall riding Tresaison Hallmark, winners of BE90 - Sec C

April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 07:56 Page 43

PHOTO NEWS

Kayleigh Warmer riding Ballinteskin Yourself, 8th place BE90 - Sec A

Vicki-May Northover riding Lavally Dubh, 5th place BE90 - Sec A

Eleanor Morley riding Bennington, 6th place BE90 - Sec D

Jane Anderson riding Jims Patch, winners of BE90 Sec D

James Pratt riding Churchside Reflection, winners of BE90 - Sec B

Tamsin Malone riding Gems Dixie, 10th place BE90 Sec A

Olivia May riding Willie Gofar, 10th place BE90 - Sec D

Alexandra D’Urso riding Charlie Clover, 9th place BE90 - Sec D

Jo Thorogood riding My Newtown Clover, 3rd place BE90 - Sec B

Mollie Harris riding Pixel Perfect, 2nd place BE90 - Sec B

Alyson Parker riding Moloko, 6th place BE90 - Sec A

Janet Bradshaw riding Boyne Valley Royal, 8th place BE90 - Sec C

Lisa Cameron-Errington riding Lanchesters Law, 8th place BE90 - Sec D

Barbie Hurrell riding A Touch of Frost V, 8th place BE90 - Sec B

Sam Palmer riding Foreigner of the Lowlands, 2nd place BE90 - Sec C

PHOTOS: ABSOLUTE HORSE ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 43

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LOCAL SHOWS 14th February

15th February

21st February

Wix EC: Arena Eventing

Warehill EC: Showjumping The College of West Anglia: Unaffiliated Showjumping

2’ 1 Eoife Rew – Mollie; 2 Jenna Greyson – Coopers Lad. 2’3 1 Chris Cracker – Domino; 2 Eoife Rew – Mollie; 3 Elle Mitchell – India Moonslate; 4 Lucy Hinde – Mollie. 2’6 1 Eoife Rew – Willow; 2 Carolyn Block – Graham; 3 Sarah Leggett – Dycott Painted Lady; 4 Tammy Long – Homespun Magic. 2’9 1 Carolyn Block – Graham; 2 Jenna Greyson – Desert Kingdom; 3 Clare Capell – Jeffrey; 4 Christine Wonnacott – Burnt Sienna. 3’ 1 Chloe-Ann May – Mr Noah Lot. 3’3 1 Chloe-Ann May – Mr Noah Lot; 2 Sam Green – Yogi.

2’ Novice 1 Katie Johnson - Jet Set II; 2 Kaylee Potter – Jack; 3 Lulu Jenkins – Domingo; 4 Emily Ivory - Glenmore Lad. 2’3 1 Caterina White – Boy; 2 Tilly Bryant Mettlewood Liberty; 3 Sienna White – Rascal; 4 Lulu Jenkins – Domingo. 2’6 1 Sian Kalabza - Smartie Boy; 2 Reanna Plaistow - My Mate Shadow; 3 Alice Archer - Rapid Artist; 4 Freya Harvey – Ivanhoe.

Alice Archer and Rapid Artist

Kate Sullivan – Freworgan Golden Fleur; 3 Laila Javahery – Minstrel; 4 Aoife Rew – Molly. 70cm 1 Aoife Rew – Scotsford Last Chance; 2 Alana Bailey – Silver Sprite; 3 kate Sullivan – Freworgan Golden Fleur; 4 Sarah Lummis – Jazz. Horses 1 Hannah Chelton – Willow. 75cm 1 Aofie Rew – Scotsford Last Chance; 2 Amelia Short – Carinside Houdini; 3 Gabrielle Gadsby – Gladane Gandolf. 80cm 1 Kate Cameron – Maylands Delight; 2 Aoife Rew – Scotsford Last Chance; 3 Alana Bailey – Silver Sprite; 4 Scarlett Bedford – Rock N Roll at Midnight. Horses 1 Karen Wornham – Cattano ADZ; 2 Hannah Chelton – Willow; 3 Amelia Short – Carinside Houdini. 85cm 1 Gemma Whiffen – Bonamie; 2 Talia Daprato – Charlie; 3 Jonathan Hickman – Poppy. 90cm 1 Katie Cameron – Maylands Delight; 2 Chloe Wornham – Bally Lee Boy. Horses 1 Karen Wornham – Cattano ADZ; 2 Stella Stearn – Kissemmie Rebel. 90cm 1 Talia Daprato – Charlie; 2 Katie Cameron – Dundee Spirit; 3 Scarlett Bedford – Rock N Roll at Midnight; 4 Scarlett Bedford – Croc an Noinan Rocket. 1m 1 Chloe Wornham – Bally Lee Boy; 2 Katie Cameron – Dundee Spirit. Horses 1 Stella Stearn – Kissemmie Rebel.

Catherine Caley riding Mr Mager

Photos: Rob Morris Photography Katie Cameron riding Dundee Spirit

14th February

Overa Farm Stud: Junior British Showjumping 70cm 1 Abby Clark – Neebro Bridesmaid; 2 Tilly Shaw – Magic Monkey; 3 Ellie BurrellSquibb – Minni Mouse; 4 Tallia Nuttell – UB Little Cruise. 80cm 1 Lilly Smith – Grangepark Derby; 2 Georgina Barnard – Farriers Gift; 3 Henry Squibb – Birchill Harmony; 4 Milly Stennett – Kolbeach Hollys Dancer. British Novice 1 Abby Clark – Neebro Bridesmaid; 2 Francesca Murrell – Newcott Kingfisher. 128cms =1 Lilly Smith – Grangepark Derby; =1 Henry Squibb – Birchill Harmony; =1 Tallia Nuttell – UB Little Cruise; =1 Tilly Shaw – Magic Monkey; =1 Tia Squibb – Gorm and Ban; =1 Tallia Nuttell – Another Victory; =1 Tilly Shaw – Spooky Lucy; =1 eloise Squibb – Tycorn Cymro Coch; =1 Henry Squibb – Atlantic Hope. 138cms =1 Francesca Murrell – Newcott Kingfisher; =1 Liberty Hargrave – Little Okehurst; =1 Francesca Murrell – Rivervalley Tyron; =1 Imogen Milner-Moore – Watch The Pennies.

Discovery 1 Liberty Hargrave – Little Okehurst; 2 Charlotte Rose Eyre – Its Logik; 3 Kirsty Sanderson – Toms Dream; 4 Francesca Murrell – Rivervalley Tyron. Newcomers 1 Kirsty Sanderson – Toms Dream; 2 Charlotte Rose Eyre – Its Logik; 3 Georgina Catermole – Wise Dennis.

15th February

Overa Farm: Senior British Showjumping 80cm Open 1 Eleanor Masters – Radical Choice; 2 Lydia Campbell – How Bazarres He; 3 Toby Bancroft – Tino; 4 Susi Rodgers Hartley – Summer. British Novice/90cm Open: Open 1 Caroline McBride – Cavalier Casino Royale; Eleanor Masters – Radical Choice. British Novice Section 1 Fern Ainsworth – California Diamond; 2 Helen Gale – Cleggan Bay; 3 Kitty Palmer – Lady Cavenidsh; 4 Debbie Guest – Carnane Santa Rosa.

Discovery/1m Open 1 Eleanor Masters – Its Jack Be Nimble; 2 Toby Bancroft – Donnerstag; 3 Emma Leigh Webb – Carrabeg Lady Grey; 4 Fern Ainsworth – California Diamond. 1.05m Open 1 Lucy Mack – Araboera; 2 Rachel Sargent – Tambourine Man II; 3 Charlotte Cattermole – Wallinea GB; 4 Brook Roberts – Minnie Mexico.

Newcomers/1.10m Open 1 Mary McGuckien – Ben Jem; 2 Toby Bancroft – Donnerstag; 3 Jenny Mitchell – Dhuma Varna; Rachel Sargent – Tambourine Man II.

44 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

Caterina White and Boy

Hannah Chelton riding Willow

Photos: Caroline Hamilton Stella Stern riding Kissemmie Rebel

17th February

Chloe Wornham riding Bally Lee Boy

Kate Sullivan riding Freworgan Golden Fleur

Wix EC: Showjumping 2’ 1 Bea Andrew – Nip & Tuck; 2 Gracie Tyte – Danny Boy; 3 Daisy Moore – Smart Little Berry; 4 Lilly Rose – Storm. Pairs Rescue Relay 1 Gracie Tyte – Danny Boy & Lilly Rose – Storm; 2 Lucia Barlow – Blue Arrow & Bea Andrew – Nip & Tuck; 3 Jessica Fenn – Winnie & Emma Parker – Shona. 2’3 1 Bea Andrew – Nip & Tuck; 2 Saffron Sutherland – Spirit; 3 Jackie Street – Licardo’s Pride. 2’6 1 Nicky Robinson – Coulant; 2 Jackie Street – Licardo’s Pride; 3 Lilly Rose – Storm. 2’9 1 Nicky Robinson – Coulant. PC Dengie Qualifier 1 Frankie Power – Spider; 2 Stella Divine-King – Suzie; 3 Holly Moakes – Tully Dun. 3’ 1 Charlie Lenton – Gem.

18th February

Wix EC: Very Novice Jumping 12” 1 Lucy Vowles – HRA Gemini; 2 Daisy Twin – Sovereign; 3 Amelia Themiscocleous – HRA Snak A Jack; 4 Holly Gregory – Panda.

18” 1 Loren Davies – HRA Fizz; 2 Maysie Philpot – Hedgerows Jack The Lad 3 Daisy Twin – Spot The Buttons; 4 Zak Kent – Jasper.

2’ 1 Bradley Kent – Ramobo; 2 Maysie Philpot – Hedgerows Jack The Lad; 3 Izzy Ainger – Celtic; 4 Amelia Themistocleous – HRA Snack A Jack. 2’3” 1 Summer Kingsbury – HRA Connie; 2 Letesha Duffy – Mister B; 3 Brad Kent – Rambo; 4 Izzy Ainger – Celtic.

19th February

Wix EC: Dressage Intro B 1 L Riley – Wellington; 2 D Viney-Hiner – Blodwyn; 3 A Kynaston – Cook; 4 N Pitcher – Mr Rememberance. Prelim 4 1 E Steele – Eligh Blue; 2 C Lucas – Buzz; 3 J Blagrove – Bertie; 4 S Ryan – Archer’s Aim. Prelim 14 1 A Jacobs – Jays Ghost; 2 F Gillott – Kano; 3 C Eve – Clevery Prince; 4 A Taylor – Rosie. Novice 28 1 A Jacobs – Jays Ghost; 2 C Eve – Clevery Prince; 3 P Petersen – Charlie. % Class 1 K Foley – Jack.

22nd February

21st February

Wix EC: British Dressage Novice Music 1 C McDonald – Marquis De Montaire; 2 L Fisher – Finjo; 3 S Skillin – Carenthago Z. Open 1 S Maddocks – Fifth Edition; 2 C Lee – Indian Lakota. Elementary Music 1 L Fisher – Finjo; 2 S Skillen – Carenthago Z; 3 N Bentley – Rudiger.

Medium Music 1 J Marshall – Decision Time II. Open 1 S Carmichael – Belle Amie. Medium 61 1 O Stafford – Badgers Kingley; 2 M Wyatt – Eduardo; 3 Z Jones – Barcardi. Open 1 J Mason – Cor-De-Corine. Medium 73 1 Z Jones – Barcardi; 2 O Stafford – Badgers Kingley; 3 C Smith – Penhaligan Rockstein. Open 1 S Carmichael – Belle Amie; 2 B Hayler – Woodlander Forever. Ad Medium 85 1 H Theobald – Fabia Bee. Open 1 P Hayler – Spellbound Tobias. Ad Medium 98 Qualifier 1 H Theobald – Fabia Bee; 2 A Turner – Rockkissma; 3 S Saward – Rufus. Open 1 G Lucas – Sante; 2 B Hayler – Woodland Va Voom; 3 G Lucas – Salo. Ad Medium 102 1 A Stanley – Unamore. PYO 1 B Hayler – Alborough Rebeuns; 2 G Lucas – Sante. Ad Medium Music 1 A Stanley – Unamore.

Overa Farm Stud: NSEA Showjumping 50cm 1 Ella Howard – All That Jazz; 2 Lily Spruce – Bureside Sunrise. 60cm Individual 1 Ella Howard – All That Jazz; 2 Yasmin Brown – Rebel; 3 Amy St Felix School 70cm winners Grimes – Dykebeck Wild Nettle; 4 Millie Thurtle – Jubilee. Team 1 Long Stratton High (Kieran Bradley – Felix; Yasmin Brown – Rebel; Stephanie Brown – Oliver; Millie Thurtle – Jubilee); 2 Hethersett Academy (Holly Mitchell – Dykebeck Wild Daisy; Cassey Wright – Lime Kiln Royal Reward; Amy Grimes – Dykebeck Wild Nettle). Intro 70cm 1 Jack Wilmott – LulaBelle; 2 Gracie Hall – Maybrookes; 3 Holly Mitchell – Dykebeck Wild Nettle; 4 Grace Mitchell – Dykebeck Wild Daisy. Mini 70cm Individual 1 Jack Wilmott – Lulabelle; 2 Lucy Clarke – Tango; 3 Oliver Kidner – Will; 4 Gracie Hall – Maybrookes. Novice 80cm 1 Liberty Hargrave – Barney; 2 Polly Papworth – Bubble; 3 Oliver Kidner – Avalon; 4 Oliver Kidner – Will. Team 1 Saint Felix School (Jack Wilmott – Lulabelle; Lucy Clarke – Tango; Thea Hall – Delia; Alessia Haradon – Mille); 2 Hethersett Academy (Cassey Wright – Lime Kiln Royal Reward; Amy Grimes – Dykebeck Wild Nettle; Grace Mitchell – Dykebeck Wild Daisy; Gracie hall – Maybrookes); 3 Norwich High School (Antonia Wolliiams – Nemo; 2 Grace Gowing – Arnie; Ella Wharton – Holly); 4 Langley School (Polly Papworth – Stella; Zoe Campling – Merlin; Oliver Kidner – Will). Novice 80cm Individual 1 Liberty Hargrave – Barney; 2 Polly Papworth – Bubble; 3 Oliver Kidner – Avalon; 4 Oliver Kidner – Will. Team 1 Norwich High School (Antonia Woolliams – Nemo; Grace Gowing – Arnie; Liberty Hargrave – Barney; Ella Wharton - Holly); 2 Saint Felix School (Lucy Clarke – Tango; Thea Hall – Delia; Alessia Hargadon – Millie; 3 Langley School (Zoe Campling – Merlin; Oliver Kidner – Will; Polly Papworth – Bubble; Oliver Kidner – Avalon). Intermediate 90cm Individual 1 Polly Papworth – Bubble; 2 Grace Gowing – Arnie; 3 Oliver Kidner – Avalon; 4 Lottie basey-Fisher – Clones Paddy. Team 1 Langley School (Oliver Kidner – Avalon; Polly Papworth – Bubble; Lottie basey-Fisher – Clones Paddy); 2 Norwich High School (Dill Woolliams – Ma-am Field High; Liberty Hargrave – Barney; Ella Wharton – Holly; Grace Gowing – Arnie).

April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 07:56 Page 45

1st March

28th February

The College of West Anglia: NSEA Showjumping

Wix EC: Pasada Showjumping

60cm 1 Rebecca Everitt – Rita; 2 Ella Howard – All That Jazz; 3 Olivia Henson – Cracker; 4 Lottie Johns – Happy as Harry. 70cm Ind 1 Ella Zatouroff – Foxi; 2 Rebecca Everitt – Rita; 3 Lexi Day – Mr Beaujangles; 4 Lydia Law – Andy. Team 1 Comberton VC, Lexi Day – Mr Beaujangles, Maisie Hay-Clarke – Best Chance, Lauren Bell – Splashing Waves. 80cm Ind 1 Tilly Bryant – Lady Lace; 2 Tilly Bryant – Mettlework Liberty; 3 Lexi Day – Mr Beaujangles; 4 Emily Gredley – Buddy Lad. Team 1 Roundwood Park, Sophie Inman – boy O Boy, Jasmine Francey – Les Vagues de Leau, Ellie Saunders – Dillion, Tilly Bryant – Lady Lace; 2 Comberton VC, Ella Wilson – Ballymore Miss Chief, Lexi Day – Mr Beaujangles, Maisie Hay-Clarke – Best Chance. 90cm Ind 1 Tilly Bryant – Lady Lace; 2 Kitty Haslam – Gwynfaes Hedfanwr; 3 Sophie Inman – Boy O Boy; 4 Matilda Manning – Solo. Team 1 Roundwood Park, Jasmine Francey - Les Vagues de Leau, Daisy Grevestock – Pink Floyd, Sophie Inman – Boy O Boy, Tilly Bryant – Lady Lace; 2 Bottisham VC, Imogen Trump – Tatiff, Matilda Manning – Solo, Eloise Stringer – Silver; 3 Hockerill Anglo-European College, Inse Harper – Some Might Say, Alice Sommerville – Rosie, Kitty Haslam – Gwynfaes Hedfanwr, Maia Dilloway – Sonny. 1m Ind 1 Imogen Trump – Tatiff; 2 Daisy Grevestock – Pink Floyd; 3 Katie Stockwell – Colour Choice; 4 Matilda Manning – Solo. Team 1 Bottisham VC, Imogen Trump – Tatiff, Matilda Manning – Solo, Eloise Stringer – Silver.

2’ 1 Emilia Kay – Bronnie; 2 Lily Cane – Max. 2’3 1 Emilia Kay – Bronnie; 2 Lola Miller – Gypsy. 2’6 1 Bronte Highfield – Dohulla Prince; 2 Jessica Simpson – Splash; 3 Izzy Chantry – Poppy. 2’9 1 Jessica Simpson – Splash; 2 Bronte Highfield – Dohulla Prince.

2’6 Horse 1 Angelina B – Emilia Hunnaball; 2 Maggie – Tia Foster. 2’9 1 Danielle Bennett – Mac; 2 Sarah Endean – Bunnow Magpie; 3 Michelle Saunders – Jimmy’s Surprise. 3’ 1 Danielle Bennett – Mac; 2 Shannon Ryan – Archer’s Aim; 3 lauren Dodds – Bally. 3’3 1 Calire Bolt – Archer’s Quest. Pasada Pony Trophy 1 Jessica Simpson – Splash (36); 2 Lola-Jane Miller – Gypsy (30); 3 Lucy Hinde – Miss Molly (24); 4 Lily Cane – Max (21). Pasada Horse Trophy 1 Danielle Bennett – Mac (380; =2 ChloeAnn May – Mr Noah Lot (35); =2 Sarah Endean – Bunnow Magpie (35).

Daisy Grevestock riding Pink Floyd

Ella Zatouroff riding Foxi

Tilly Bryant riding Lady Lace

7th March

The College of West Anglia: Unaffiliated Dressage Intro A 1 Sofia Reeves – Tyssul Catrina; 2 Ellie Martin – Kirtle Tom Thumb. Intro B 1 Ellie Martin – Kirtle Tom Thumb; 2 Georgie Salter – Harvey. Prelim 12 1 Carolyn – Southburn treasure; 2 Zoe Whiffen – A Touch of Magic; 3 Amy Bowers – Star in the Dark; 4 Elisha Robjant – Millbarr General Sparrow. Prelim 13 =1 Zoe West – Constance; =1 Zoe West – Castello; 3 Elisha Robjant – Millbarr General Sparrow; Charlotte Kerton – Nettis. Novice 24 Zoe West – Constance; 2 Alex Belshaw – Mendlesham; 3 Emma Holmes – Woody; 4 Zoe West – Castello. Novice 30 1 Emma Holmes – Woody; 2 Tasmin Long – Dougal; 3 Alex Belshaw – Mendlesham; 4 Louise Johnson – Ella.

Kitty Haslam riding Gwynfaes Hedfanwr

Sofia Reeves riding Tyssul Catrina

Zoe West riding Castello

Tasmin Long riding Dougal

Zoe Whiffen riding A Touch of Magic

Rebecca Everitt riding Rita

Photos: Rob Morris Photography Photos: Rob Morris Photography

28th February

Wix EC: Inter Schools Jumping 60cm 1 Mollie Townes – Fabio; 2 Phoebe Prideaux – Saucy; 3 Holly Carr – Roshmore Freddy; 4 Sophie Philpot – Total Amazing Toto. 70cm Teams 1 Brentwood (Grace Parish – Sassi; Emma Philpot – Iceford Blue; Ben Hogarth – Alfresco Alfie; Emily Phol – Mr Bubbles); 2 New Hall (Ellie Maim – Sparkles; Mia McDonald – Sparnbrook Serenity; Demi Dole – Just By Chance V); 3 Manningtree High (Jess Simpson – Splash Me; Lola Miller – Gypsy; Saffron Sutherland – Spirit; Mollie Townes – Fabio); 4 Felstead Prep (Eloise Barber – Mosstown Action Man; Phoebe Prideaux – Flashy Lad; Natasha Worsick – Lord of the irish Skye; Poppy Buckenham – Puffin). 70cm Individual 1 Jess Simpson – Splash Me; 2 Abigil Haris – Ozzy; 3 Sophie Philpot – Totally Amazing Toto; 4 Emma Philpot – Iceford Blue. 80cm Teams 1 Brentwood (Ben Hogarth – Alfresco Alfie; Thomas Philpot – Prince of Donaro; Emily Pohl – Mr Henry; Emma Philpot – Mockershill Man); 2 Manningtree (Jess Simpson – Splash Me; Imogen Hughes – Iceford Chester; Sarah Endean – Bunnow Magpie; Robyn Woodward – Little Meg); 3 Manningtree (Jess Simpson – Roby V; Imogen Hughes – Lemonsfield Girl; Robyn Woodward – Co. Melitrowe Dionne; Caitlin Pugh – Mockbeggar Gabriel; 4 Tendring Tech (Megan Meilson-Britton – Don’t You Dare; Tia Foster – Bill Canyon; Kayleigh Mead – Last Man Standing; Emilia Hunnable – Angelina B). 80cm Individual 1 Robyn Woodward – Co. Melitrowe Dionne; 2 Robyn Woodward – Little Meg; 3 Robyn Woodward – Brookwood Fern; 4 Jess Simpson – Splash Me. 90cm Teams 1 Brentwood (Thomas Philpot – Prince of Donard; Emily Pohl – Mr Henry; Jack Cook – Iceford Jigsaw; Emma Philpot – Mockershill May); 2 Manningtree (Jess Simpson – Ruby VII; Robyn Woodward – Little Meg; Sarah Endean – Bunnow Magpie; Imogen Hughes – Iceford Chester); 3 Felstead (Samuel Wisbey – Kiltilane Mike; Megan Davies – Zescheron; Isabelle Scott-Bowden – Cornarone Rospride); 4 Col. Sixth Form (Miamh Healy – Finnegan; Jess Kluss – Sparky; Ellie Hall – Bod; Chloe-Ann May – Mr Noah Lot). 90cm Individual 1 Robyn Woodward – Little Meg; 2 Robyn Woodward – String of Pearls; 3 Samuel Wisbey – Kililane Mike; 4 Jack Cook – Iceford Jigsaw. 1m Individual 1 Samuel Wisbey – Kiltilane Mike; 2 Emma Turtle – Owen Maxwell; 3 Grace King – Fergus; 4 Isabelle Scott-Bowden – Cornarone Rospride.

5th March

7th March

Wix EC: Dressage

Lime Kiln Farm EC: British Dressage

Intro Test A 1 D. Viney-Hiney – Blodwyn; 2 S. Reason – Champtho; 3 D. Mason – Cavalier Goodwin. Prelim 1 1 S. Allen – Forest Clooney; 2 S. Reason – Champtho; 3 S. Allen – Wenderly of Bellhouse; 4 M. Hooper – Consider It Dun. Prelim 18 1 J. Gentle – Orginal Prakster; 2 S. Allen – Forest Clooney; 3 S. Reason – Fingaw Talisman; 4 S. Allen – Wenderly of Bellhouse. Novice 24 1 E. Bradshaw – Maggie; 2 L.Jones – Lady Zadie; 3 N. Robinson – Coulant. %Class 1 E. Bradshaw – Maggie.

Prelim 1 1 Joanna Felton – Coolio.

Prelim 13 1 Abby Palmer - The Touch of Frost; 2 Jessica Lawrence – Wolf; 3 Michelle Lowe - Heartbreaker Diamond; 4 Hannah Norman - Roxoboro Lass.

Novice 24 1 Casey Parker - Eeyore DS. Novice 30 1 Casey Parker - Eeyore DS; 2 Jessica Lawrence – Wolf; 3 Hannah Norman - Roxoboro Lass; 4 Cheryl Hunt – Rouvin. Elementary 42 1 Rebecca Woods - Godington Amon RA.

ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015 45

April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 07:56 Page 46

LOCAL SHOWS 7th-8th March

7th March

Lime Kiln Farm EC: Unaffiliated Dressage LKF Intro 2 1 Alison Lee - A Dark Immu; 2 Kay Maclachlan - Lady Isadora; 3 Elizabeth Taylor – Albert; 4 Ali King Stockman George. Intro B 1 Alison Lee - A Dark Immu; 2 Sarah Watson – May; 3 Ellie Bowen-Jones - Clinton II; 4 Kay Maclachlan - Lady Isadora. Prelim 1 1 Sam Daniels – Oscar; 2 Kerry OsbourneSmith – Will; 3 Julie Wacey – Fizz; 4 Ann Jones – Guisho. Prelim 13 1 Stephanie Cousins - Annie Delight; 2 Cheryl Hunt – Poppy; 3 Jacqueline Anderson - Landmark Court Jester; 4 Anita Lenton - Mango Madam. Novice 24 1 Cheryl Hunt – Poppy; 2 Tasarla Lagan - Templewood Isis; 3 Zoe Young - Di Amore; 4 Jacqueline Anderson Landmark Court Jester. Novice 27 1 John Cameron – Magellan; 2 Alison Cameron – Catchphrase. Elementary 42 1 Alison Cameron – Catchphrase.

8th March

Wix EC: British Showjumping 70cm 1 H Danby – Casper III; 2 S Money – Halarrfa. Ponies 1 A Rew – Scotford Last Chance. 80cm 1 D ScottGarrett – Cofiez; 2 J Greyson – Desert Kingdom; 3 T Foster – Bill Canyon.

Ponies 1 A Rew – Scotford Last Chance. 90cm 1 L Simpson – Ellie; 2 M Howard – Mr Frosty; 3 C May – Mr Noah Lot. Ponies 1 N Gibson – Nightan Moonshine. 1m M Howard – Mr Frosty. Ponies 1 N Gibson – Nightan Moonshine. 95cm Amateur 1 R Oler – Mercedes. 1m Open 1 D Scott-Garrett – Matador D UK; 2 M Eagle – Whiskers. 1.05m 1 E Carvey – Missing Pieces.

8th March

Easton College: NSJC Juniors 70cm Open 1 India Fincham - My Lillia Rose; 2 E Burrell Squibb - Mini Mouse II; 3 Skye Valderas - Twyford Courvoisier; 4 Georgina Barnard - Farriers Gift. Stepping Stones =1 Imogen Milner Moore - Spike Man; =1 Jacob Wright Poppyfields Nutcracker; =1 Henry Squibb - Birchill Harmony; =1 Tia Squibb - Gorm and Ban. Pony British Novice/80cm Open 1 Isobel Staff - Just Malcom; 2 Liberty Hargrave - Little Okehurst; 3 Francesca Murrell - Newcott Kingfisher; 4 Tia Squibb - Gorm and Ban. Discovery/90cm 1 Heavenli Hewitt - CJs Kemosabi; 2 Shannon Smith - Pretty Mate; 3 Atiya Bussey - Lackamore Flyer; 4 Francesca Murrell - River Valley Tyrone. Blue Chip Newcomers/1.0m 1 Heavenli Hewitt - CJs Kemosabi; 2 Shannon Smith - Pretty Mate; 3 Atiya Bussey - Westside Menlough; 4 Charlotte RoseEyre - Its Logic. Pony Foxhunter/1.10m 1 India Bussey - Ocelot II; 2 Charlotte Rose-Eyre - Its Logic; 3 Natasher Piper – Kilimonjaro. 1.15m Members Cup 1 Natasha Piper - My Champagne Supernova; 2 Charlotte Rose-Eyre - Its Logic. Unaffiliated/BS Club 70cm Ponies 1 Stephy Howes - Trixie Silver Wynsanna; 2 Emily Ringer - Skihana Girl; 3 Kierra Leeson - Little Owl; 4 Rik Leeson – Vinnie. 80cm Ponies 1 Kierra Leeson - Little Owl; 2 Hannah Murrell - Derwins Lad; 3 Stephy Howes - Trixie Silver Wynsanna; 4 Sky Leeson – Dennis.

80cm Horses 1 Nicola Denley – Ted; 2 Balla Matthews - Paloma Z; 3 Sophie Mann - Delaney Star; 4 Polly Papworth – Bubble. 90cm Horses 1 Polly Papworth – Bubble; 2 Sophie Mann Delaney Star; 3 Balla Matthews - Paloma Z. 1.0m Horses 1 Lizzie Murrell – Florence; 2 Summer Leeson - Westside Blue Boy. Senior Affiliated Senior Newcomers/ 1.10 open 1 Emily Adcock – Elizabeth; 2 Lizzy Gray – Granby; 3 Ruby Pointer - Dutsey Van Het Hek; 4 Fiona Hirst - Royal Impact. 1.15m Open 1 Siobhain Edmunds - B Amelusina R 60; 2 Fiona Hirst - Royal Impact; 3 Fiona Hirst - Dartans Barrack; 4 Charlotte Peasley Robyn Petanella. Horse and Hound Foxhunter/1.20m Open 1 Zoe Smith – Wyoming; 2 Chelsea Davis - Rabawn Gold Lux; 3 Kelly Hancy – Deago; 4 Zoe Smith - U2 The First.

Chloe Winchester and Anniki

Jenny Mitchell and Dhumavarna

India Bussey and Westwinds Ego

Kelly Hancy and Deago

Caroline Fitzallen Howard and Arinde

1.30m Open 1 Chloe Winchester - Curosa III; 2 Chloe Winchester - Zandokan H; 3 Zoe Smith – Wyoming; 4 Caroline Fitzallen-Howard – Arinde.

Puissance 1 India Bussey - Westwinds Ego; 2 Kelly Hancy – Deago; =3 Caroline Fitzallen-Howard – Arinde; =3 Chloe Winchester – Anniki. KBIS British Novice 1 Ruby Pointer - Clonkyle Pilgrim; 2 Steve Tibbles - Teddington Spark; 3 Abby Steel Voltaires Muddle; 4 Patrice McAllister - Portphilips Amy. 90cm Open 1 Paul Thomas - Mistral De Janau. Discovery 1 Ruby Pointer - Precosious Scarlett; 2 Ruby Pointer - Clonkyle Pilgrim; 3 Abby Steel - Voltaires Muddle; 4 Laura Wingfield Pennys Nederland. 1.0m Open 1 Michelle Lowe Electra IV; 2 Chloe Woodcock – Omara. 1.05m Open 1 Paul Thomas - Mistral De Janau.

1 Kelly Wright. Colby Ballykiss Angel; 2 Briar Rose; 2 Rosie Bulwer-Long.

Sherbert; 3 Tasarla Lagan. Foreman’s Rosie Bulwer-Long. Sherbert; 3 Evie Witte. Alfie; 4 Tasarla Lagan. Foreman’s Boy; 4 Libby Lukins. Jays Silver Spirit.

Regional Final 85cm Horse 1 Helen Boy. Regional Final 75cm Pony 1 65cm Open Horse/Pony 1 Jo Wooley Bell. Dreadnaught; 2 Letitia BulwerRosie Bulwer-Long. Sherbert; 2 Evie - Paddockside Morgan; 2 Tia-Lilly Crane Long. Inca. Regional Final 85cm Pony Witte. Alfie; 3 Kelly Wright. Colby - Birchlands Wonder; 3 Ella FairbairnBallykiss Angel. Regional Final 75cm 1 Rosie Bulwer-Long. Sherbert.

Day - August Surprise; 4 Emily Gurney Regional Final 95cm Horse 1 Letitia Horse 1 Helen Bell. Dreadnaught; 2 Oakfield Autumn Gleam. Regional Louise Wakelin. My Annagh Star. 85cm Bulwer-Long. Inca.

Final 65cm 12 & Under 1 Solie Open Horse/Pony 1 Pip Atkinson.

Stephan - Merry Go Round; 2 Tia-Lilly Crane - Birchlands Wonder; 3 Lauren 11th March Allsopp-Inglis - Rosie White; 4 Emily Gurney - Oakfield Autumn Gleam.

Wix EC: Open Evening Showjumping Regional Final 65cm Pony 1 Solie 2’3 1 Jessica Simpson – Trailblazer; 2 S Coppolo – Little Layla. 2’6 1 Becky Stephan - Merry Go Round; 2 Tia-Lilly Robinson – Shadowman; 2 Emilia Hunnaball – Angelina B; 3 Lucy Hinde – Miss Crane - Birchlands Wonder; 3 Evie Witte Molly. 2’9 1 Sophie Dutton – What’s The Story; 2 Becky Robinson – – Alfie; 4 Emily Gurney - Oakfield Shadowman. 3’ 1 Clire Bolt – Ashes Quest; 2 Sophie Dutton – What’s The Story.

Autumn Gleam. Regional Final 65cm 3’3 1 Sophie Dutton – What’s The Story; 2 Chloe-Ann May – Mr Noah Lot. Seniors On Ponies 1 Jo Wooley Trophy Results: 1 Chloe-Ann May – Mr Noah Lot (55); 2 Becky Robinson – Paddockside Morgan. Regional Final Shadowman (38); 3 Julia O’Brien – Tyler (36); 4 Tia Foster – Bill Canyon (28); 5 65cm Horse 1 Louise Wakelin. My Kayleigh Mead – Last Man Standing (22).

Annagh Star. 75cm Open Horse/Pony

Lime Kiln Farm EC: Trailblazers Showjumping

46 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

Photos: Kindly Supplied

15th March

Lime Kiln Farm EC: Unaffiliated Dressage LKF Intro 3 1 Pauline Wrighton - Hilderston Myrna; 2 Olivia Waller Just Jess; 3 Alison King - Stockman George. Intro A. Junior 1 Poppy St Lawrence – Billy; 2 Poppy St Lawrence – Grace; 3 Olivia Waller - Just Jess; 4 Katy Penny – Peaches. Intro A. Senior 1 Katy Dexter – Mahdeeba; 2 Annie Borrett – Bisley; 3 Pauline Wrighton - Hilderston Myrna; 4 Kate Clarke - Florida VDL. Prelim 7 1 Kelly Brooks - Negn Lad; =2 Sarah Mitchell - Brookfield Joe; =2 Lucinda Leonard - Renvarg Mischief; 4 Sharon Savoury - Oxnead Appleby. Prelim 18 1 Gina Mallett - Miles of Smiles; 2 Sharon Beeby - Godington Amon RA; 3 Kelly Brooks - Negn Lad; 4 Joanna Felton – Coolio. Novice 27 1 Sharon Beeby Godington Amon RA; 2 Frances Vos - Heritage Gemini; 3 Lucy Blowers – Billion. Novice 28 1 Michelle Lowe - Heartbreaker Diamond; 2 Michelle Lowe - Vivendi Noble Cavalier; 3 Gina Mallett - Miles of Smiles; 4 Jacqueline Anderson - Landmark Court Jester. Elementary 49 1 Olivia Gresswell - Kalahari Dorada; 2 Alice Gresswell - Practically Perfect.

April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 07:56 Page 47

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April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 07:57 Page 50

SHOWDATE DIRECTORY APRIL-MAY 2015

WEDNESDAY 1ST APRIL DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07738 000029 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Very Novice Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 2ND APRIL DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Norton Heath EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01277 824860 FRIDAY 3RD APRIL DRESSAGE Beds: Twin Trees EC; Dressage.

Tel: 01767 627414 DRIVING Beds: The College EC; Indoor Driving. Tel: 01234 708400 HUNTER TRIAL Suffolk: Poplar Park EC;

Easton Harriers Open Hunter Trial. Tel: 01473 624761 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Easter Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Open Evening Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436 SATURDAY 4TH APRIL DRESSAGE Essex: Colchester Garrison; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01206 242210 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01328 878282 DRIVING Beds: The College EC; Indoor Driving. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Amateur Showing Society Championship.

Tel: 07759 603120 SHOWJUMPING Beds: Twin Trees EC;

Saturday 25th April 2015

Showjumping. Tel: 01767 627414 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton College; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01493 393223 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton College;

NSJC Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01493 393223 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Cross Pole Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436 SUNDAY 5TH APRIL DRESSAGE Norfolk: Blackwater Farm;

NPS AREA 14 26th April 2015 Ashfields Carriage Driving & Polo Centre, Essex

HUNTERS to MINIATURES RIHS - NPS - BSPS - BSPA - SSAD Ltd - BSHA - SHB (GB) TGCA (GB) - BMHS - MHC (GB) Qualifier for NPS Royal International WHP Championship EQUIFEST - ICENI NATIVE PONY SHOW sae Mrs M. Kidman, Romans Farm, Rettendon Common, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 8HQ or

www.npsarea14.co.uk FOAL & YOUNGSTOCK SHOW Details to follow... see future advert

Sunday 10th May 2015

50 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

10th May 14th June 12th July 9th August

April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 07:57 Page 51

Sponsors of the Showdate Directory

GIPPING RIDING SOCIETY Helmingham Hall Showing Show Saturday 9th May 2015 Start 9am. Helmingham Hall IP14 6EF

Working Hunter, Ridden and In-Hand Classes Qualifiers for 15 plus and Equifest.

Annual Show Saturday 20th September 2015. GRS Annual Show, Stonham Barns IP14 6AT. Classes for all, Working Hunter, Showing Ridden and In-Hand, Jumping and Gymkhana.

Secretary: Rebecca Cross Email: lightingquikchick@yahoo.co.uk or phone 07834 727637

www.gippingridingsociety.onesuffolk.net Carousel RC Dressage and Showjumping.

Tel: 07810 888192 DRIVING Beds: The College EC; Indoor Driving. Tel: 01234 708400 JUMPCROSS Essex: Brook Farm TC; JumpCross League Rd 1. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOW Essex: Norton Heath EC; Easter Fun Show. Tel: 01277 824860

SHOWING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Amateur Showing Society Championships.

Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Affiliated Showing. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Showing and Fun Day. Tel: 01953 789725 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton College;

Offering full livery, equestrian events, venue hire and much more Just off the B1118 on the Norfolk/Suffolk Border

GWC 2015 EVENT DATES 12th April GWC Dressage Day 26th April GWC Spring Show 2nd May GWC Dressage & Members/League Presentation Day 24th May Suffolk & Norfolk Native Pony Show 31st May GWC Dressage Day 7th June GWC Showing Show & Norfolk TGCA Quest 14th June GWC Dressage Day & UK Riders Regional Final 28th June GWC Dressage Day 12th July GWC Summer Show & Think Pink Diamond 18th July GWC Dressage Day 2nd August GWC Dressage Day 30th August GWC Dressage Day 13th September GWC Dressage Day 20th September GWC Fun Show & 15 + Norfolk County 27th September GWC Dressage League Presentation Day 4th October GWC Dressage Day

Makers of...

Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01493 393223 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Newton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01473 785616 MONDAY 6TH APRIL DRESSAGE Essex: Shropland Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01702 543377 SHOW Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; The East Anglia Horse Show. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOW Suffolk: Trinity Park; Ipswich Horse Society Spring Show. Tel: 01449 613923 / 01449 711427 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Tiptree EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01621 815552 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Easter Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 TUESDAY 7TH APRIL DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Suffolk: The Jays; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07785 521436 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Indoor Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07769 907076 WEDNESDAY 8TH APRIL DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Evening Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 FUN SHOW Essex: Longwood EC; Easter Fun Show. Tel: 01702 202520 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Unaffiliated Clear Round

Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07738 000029 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 9TH APRIL DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage - Intro to Ad Med. Tel: 01255 870744

Sunday 19th April from 10am

Science Supplements Telephone 0845 680 0606 or visit www.sciencesupplements.co.uk

April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 07:57 Page 52

SHOWDATE DIRECTORY APRIL-MAY 2015

SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Indoor Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07769 907076 WEDNESDAY 15TH APRIL DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Evening Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn EC; British Dressage. Tel: 07785 521436 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Unaffiliated Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07738 000029 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014

THURSDAY 16TH APRIL SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436 FRIDAY 17TH APRIL DRESSAGE Essex: Tiptree EC; Dressage Challenge. Tel: 01621 815552 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Evening Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Open Evening Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436 SATURDAY 18TH APRIL DRESSAGE Cambs: The College of West Anglia; British Dressage. Tel: 01223 860701 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Team Quest Dressage. Tel: 01603 731577 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Boyton Hall EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 SHOW Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Easter Fun Show. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWING Essex: Brook Farm TC; BSPS Showing. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Longwood EC;

Regular Show Jumping, Dressage and Showing shows are held and run at our Centre and equine specific clinics throughout the year.

Facilities and Events include: • Indoor School with viewing gallery • New 23m x 43m outdoor arena • First class off road hacking • Secure and alarmed tack room • Secure yard with 24hr supervision • Organised Clinics • ‘Own A Pony’ days • Ladies Day • Summer Residential Camp

NEW ROAD, OFFORD CLUNY ST NEOTS, CAMBRIDGESHIRE PE19 5RP Telephone: 01480 812 654 www.northbrookequestriancentre.com

52 ABSOLUTE HORSE APRIL 2015

Photograph: Eleanor Harrison

DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; British Dressage Prelim, Novice and Elem tests. Tel: 01255 870744 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Trailblazers Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01328 878282 DRESSAGE Essex: Norton Heath EC; Team Dressage. Tel: 01277 824860 DRESSAGE Suffolk: GWC EC; Dressage. Tel: 01379 388743 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Newton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01473 785616 SATURDAY 11TH APRIL EVENTER TRIAL Essex: Finchingfield EC; DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Eventer Trial. Tel: 07738 000029 Trialblazers Dressage - Team Quest. Tel: 01234 708400 EVENTER TRIAL Suffolk: Thorne Court; Area 14 Open Eventer Trial. Tel: 01284 DRESSAGE Essex: Longwood EC; Unaffiliated Dressage (1pm start). Tel: 01702 828035 202520 SHOWING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; NORSE DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; British Dressage - Showing Show. Tel: 07973 963559 Music and Medium up to G.Prix. Tel: 01255 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 870744 700236 SHOWING Suffolk: Trinity Park; BSPS Area 16 Spring Show. Tel: 01359 271910 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton College; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01493 700236 393223 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Norton Heath EC; Showjumping for cash. Tel: 01277 824860 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Unaffiliated Showjumping for cash prizes.

SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton College; Tel: 01953 789725 Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01493 393223 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; MONDAY 13TH APRIL NSEA Inter Schools Showjumping. Tel: BHS TRAINING Cambs: Hall Farm Stables; Teacher Training Day with Cora Roberts 01953 789725 BHSITT. Tel: 07740 438353 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 07785 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening 521436 Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: SUNDAY 12TH APRIL 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Cambs: Fenning Farm EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 TUESDAY 14TH APRIL DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 FRIDAY 10TH APRIL SHOWJUMPING Essex: Tiptree EC; Clear Round x-poles - 1’9 (6.30pm start). Tel: 01621 815552 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Novice Evening Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436

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Sponsors of the Showdate Directory Minimus Showjumping (1pm start). Tel: 01702 202520 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01953 789725 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436 SUNDAY 19TH APRIL COMBINED TRAINING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Gipping Rc Combined Training Competition. Tel: 07785 521436 DRESSAGE Essex: Codham Park EC; Dressage. Tel: 07769 907076 ONE DAY EVENT Suffolk: Poplar Park; Easton Harriers Open One Day Event. Tel: 01473 624761 SHOWING Essex: Brook Farm TC; BSPS Showing. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Eastern Miniatures Charity Showing Show.

Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC;

Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 07738 000029 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Harolds Park Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01279 414310 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Showjumping for cash prizes. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01953 789725 MONDAY 20TH APRIL BHS TRAINING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; CPD Fantastic Jumping with Carole Broad FBHS. www.bhseast.org.uk/east TUESDAY 21ST APRIL BHS TRAINING Norfolk: Easton College; Intermediate Training Day with Carole Broad FBHS. www.bhseast.org.uk/east DRESSAGE Suffolk: The Jays; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129

SHOW DATES FOR 2015 26th April: Showing Show 10th May: Jumping and Dressage 24th May: Fun Show 14th June: Championship Showing incorporating Amateur Showing Society Qualifiers 5th July: Jumping and Dressage 26th July: Midsummer Show 9th August: Jumping Show and Dog Show 23rd August: Showing Show 13th September: Team Dressage and Team Jumping 27th September: End of Year Show & Trophy return deadline 12th November: AGM 27th November: Disco and Presentation General Enquiries/for Schedules Chairman - Leslie Quigley on 07919 215531

Makers of...

DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07785 521436 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Indoor Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07769 907076 WEDNESDAY 22ND APRIL DRESSAGE Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; British Dressage. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Unaffiliated Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07738 000029 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 23RD APRIL DRESSAGE Cambs: Fenning Farm EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 FRIDAY 24TH APRIL DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Tiptree EC; Clear Round 2’ plus (6.30pm start). Tel: 01621 815552 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Novice Evening Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436

SATURDAY 25TH APRIL AUCTION Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Equestrian Auction. Tel: 01953 789725 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Essex: Norton Heath EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01277 824860 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01760 722616

HADLEIGH SHOW Holbecks Park, Hadleigh IP7 5PE

Saturday 16th May 2015 Affiliated BSHA, BSJA, BSPA, P(UK), BDS, DBS, Ridden, In-hand & Working Hunters, Local Hunt Classes Schedules available from: www.hadleighshow.co.uk or send C5 SAE to PO Box 1027, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 9XG Entries close - 20th April 2015 Tradestand entries closed

Science Supplements Telephone 0845 680 0606 or visit www.sciencesupplements.co.uk

April 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 24/03/2015 07:57 Page 54

SHOWDATE DIRECTORY APRIL-MAY 2015 Sponsors of the Showdate Directory EVENTER TRIAL Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Eventer Trial. Tel: 07785 521436 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Longwood EC; Minimus Showjumping (1pm start). Tel: 01702 202520

Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07738 000029 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014

SUNDAY 26TH APRIL DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Essex: Finchingfield EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07738 000029 DRESSAGE Essex: Harolds Park Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01279 414310 DRESSAGE Essex: Norton Heath EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01277 824860 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Veteran and Classical Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01953 789725 ONE DAY EVENT Cambs: Whitehall Farm; Soham & District PC Open One Day Event.

Tel: 07751 597623 SHOWING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Showing Show. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWING Suffolk: GWC EC; Spring Show.

Tel: 01379 388743 SHOWING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Working Hunter Show. Tel: 07785 521436 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: The College of West Anglia; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01223 860701 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Colchester Garrison; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01206 242210

FRIDAY 1ST MAY SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Open Evening Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436

TUESDAY 28TH APRIL DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Indoor Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07769 907076 WEDNESDAY 29TH APRIL DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Unaffiliated Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC;

THURSDAY 30TH APRIL DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436

SATURDAY 2ND MAY DRESSAGE Beds: Twin Trees EC; Dressage.

Tel: 01767 627414 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Dressage - Team Quest. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Peter Pan Fun Day. Tel: 01284 386014 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01953 789725 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Cross Pole Competition. Tel: 07785 521436 SUNDAY 3RD MAY DRESSAGE Beds: Twin Trees EC; Dressage.

Tel: 01767 627414 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Blackwater Farm; Carousel RC Dressage and Showjumping.

Tel: 07810 888192 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07785 521436 ONE DAY EVENT Suffolk: Ickworth Park; Suffolk Hunt PC Open One Day Event. Tel: 01449 737536 SHOWING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Showing. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWING Essex: Harolds Park Farm EC; Showing Show. Tel: 01279 414310 SHOWING Suffolk: The Jays; Showing Show. Tel: 01284 386014 SHOWJUMP-CROSS Essex: Codham Park EC; Showjump-Cross. Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Mini S/J, x-pole and Clear Round. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01953 789725 MONDAY 4TH MAY DRESSAGE Essex: Shropland Hall EC;

Makers of...

Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01702 543377 SHOW Essex: Willow Farm; WSJC Showing and Showjumping Show. Tel: 07816 847541 SHOW Suffolk: Trinity Park; Woodbridge Horse Show. Tel: 01449 741294 SHOWING Beds: The College EC; Showing.

Tel: 01234 708400 TUESDAY 5TH MAY DRESSAGE Suffolk: The Jays; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07769 907076 WEDNESDAY 6TH MAY DRESSAGE Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07738 000029 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 7TH MAY DRESSAGE Essex: Norton Heath EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01277 824860 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage - Intro up to Ad Med. Tel: 01255 870744 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01328 878282 FRIDAY 8TH MAY SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Novice Evening Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436 SATURDAY 9TH MAY DRESSAGE Cambs: The College of West Anglia; British Dressage. Tel: 01223 860701 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Trailblazers Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01328 878282 EVENTING Beds: The College EC; British Eventing. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWING Suffolk: Helmingham Hall; Gipping Riding Society Showing Show. Tel: 07834 727637 SHOWJUMPING Beds: Twin Trees EC; Showjumping. Tel: 01767 627414 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Junior and Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 SUNDAY 10TH MAY COMBINED TRIANING Suffolk: Thorne Court; Combined Training. Tel: 01359 233024 DRESSAGE Essex: Codham Park EC; Dressage. Tel: 07769 907076

DRESSAGE Essex: Norton Heath EC; Team Dressage. Tel: 01277 824860 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage - Intro up to Ad Med. Tel: 01255 870744 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01603 731577 EVENTING Beds: The College EC; British Eventing. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Beds: Twin Trees EC; Showjumping. Tel: 01767 627414 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Trialblazers Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 07738 000029 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Church Farm; Fox & Hounds RC Showjumping. Tel: 07941 653163 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Unaffiliated Showjumping for cash prizes.

Tel: 01953 789725 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Newton Hall EC; Open Showjumping. Tel: 01473 785616

Science Supplements Telephone 0845 680 0606 or visit www.sciencesupplements.co.uk

54 ABSOLUTE HORSE FEBRUARY 2015

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