Alberta Bits Winter Edition 2018

The Yakutian

HORSE

WINTER 2018

New MD of Foothills

EMERGENCY TRAILER

The J.C. Anderson

LEGACY MEDAL

An Interview with Filmmaker

Niobe Thompson

P U B L I C AT I O N S MA I L AG R E EME N T # 4 0 0 5 0 2 9 7

Dressage Precision

25 Gifts for

Horse Lovers A LBE RTA E QU ESTR IAN .C OM

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY W E S H A R E Y O U R PA S S I O N

Complete insurance protection for the equine community.

Capri is the industry leader when it comes to insuring horses and their people.

Through our long-standing partnership with the Alberta Equestrian Federation, we’re proud to support the equine community in Alberta.

Our dedicated equine department provides risk management and insurance expertise to protect coaches, trainers and facility operators. Our exclusive programs have proven success supporting professionals in the equine industry through risk management education and comprehensive coverage at affordable premiums.

Connect with us today, capricmw.ca/equine l 1-800-670-1877

Provincial Awards www.hansbosportna.com

Awards Nominations Deadline December 31, 2018

Submit one today for the following: • Outstanding Instructor/Coach • Sportsmanship Excellence • Outstanding Athlete/Rider • Outstanding Volunteer • Outstanding Equine Support Personnel • Outstanding Stable/Facility • Above and Beyond Excellence

MCNIVEN RANCH SUPPLY LTD. PROUD SPONSORS OF AEF Recipients will receive their award at Stride with Us held in conjunction with AEF’s AGM on March 23, 2019 in Red Deer, AB Complete a nomination form by visiting our website https://www.albertaequestrian.com/nomination-form/

Programs Include: Equine Science, Equine Reproduction Technician, Exercise Rider & Jockey Training, Farrier Science, Race Horse Groom Training

Equine Preview Day: FEBRUARY 1, 2019

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

3

WINTER 2018; VOLUME 10, ISSUE 4

Alberta Bits is the Alberta Equestrian Federation’s official member magazine. It serves the equestrian community of horses and riders of all ages, interests and involvement as Alberta’s premier resource for education, information and support.

THE ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION HAS BEEN INCORPORATED SINCE 1978

Alberta Bits magazine is mailed four times a year (Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter) to all current AEF members and is made available at the office and special events attended by the AEF. Alberta Bits is distributed throughout Alberta with news and events on behalf of recreational, sport, breeds & industry and educational sectors of the Alberta horse industry. Alberta Bits is distributed to approximately 18,000 members; 9,000 households and businesses, an exclusive list of tack and equine establishments and at events and trade shows annually.

AEF BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT PRESIDENT ELECT PAST PRESIDENT

SECRETARY

TREASURER

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

INDIVIDUAL

Lauren Parker 403.813.1055 lmparker@shaw.ca Sandy Bell 403.700.7880 windhorseretreat@gmail.com Les Oakes 403.540.9859 lesoakes@gmail.com Dena Squarebriggs 403.760.0512 dmsquare04@hotmail.com Sandy Bell 403.700.7880 windhorseretreat@gmail.com Trish Mrakawa 403.938.6398 trish@willowgrovestables.com Nicolas Brown 587.988.3590 bruchev@gmail.com Alison Douglas 403.762.8570 thealicat@shaw.ca Tara Gamble 780.945.7516 tara@tghorsemanship.com Jason Edworthy 403.651.5678 jedworthy@spring-bank.ca Tiara Chambers 780.897.7446 royaltequestrian@gmail.com Janine Leroux 403.968.3311 j_zuk@hotmail.com Melonie Myszczyszyn 403.932.1108 meloniemysz@cciwireless.ca Brenda Spanier 403.932.2936 brendaspanier@gmail.com Becky Taylor 403.507.9935 beckyt.rvt.mapc@gmail.com Robert Simpson 780.628.2356 rms210@mail.usask.ca

AEF STAFF

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sonia Dantu execdir@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 5

MEMBERSHIP

Norma Cnudde membership@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 1 MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Robyn Weatherly marketing@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 6

COACHING

Erin Rabeau coaching@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 3 COMPETITIONS

Hilary MacDonald competitions@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 2 FINANCE, GENERAL INQUIRIES

Rita Bernard info@albertaequestrian.com 403.253.4411 ext 7

OFFICE HOURS: 8:30AM TO 4:30PM, MONDAY TO FRIDAY, EXCEPT HOLIDAYS

NOTE: The AEF office will be closed from December 24 - January 4 inclusive.

ALBERTA BITS IS PUBLISHED BY WESTERN PERFORMANCE PUBLISHING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AEF

FOR EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES CONTACT: ALBERTABITS@ALBERTAEQUESTRIAN.COM MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Webster ART DIRECTOR Kendra Roberts PUBLICATION COMMITTEE

Sonia Dantu • Louisa Murch White • Robyn Weatherly CONTRIBUTORS

Handful of Films aAron Munson Amanda Ubell Photography

ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Sally Bishop 403.815.1289 sallysuebishop@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DEADLINES SPRING 2019: January 25, 2019 SUMMER 2019: April 26, 2019

FOR A MEDIA KIT AND/OR RATE CARD PLEASE CONTACT ALBERTABITS@ALBERTAEQUESTRIAN.COM or marketing@albertaequestrian.com. All material is copyright 2018. Ideas and opinions expressed in articles do not necessarily reflect the ideas or opinions of the AEF. Alberta Bits reserves the right to accept, and/or edit material submitted for publication. The AEF makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained therein, but assumes no liability in cases of error or changing conditions. Any business relations or other activities undertaken as a result of the information contained in Alberta Bits, or arising therefrom, is the responsibility of the parties involved and not of the AEF. We welcome signed letters to the editor, but reserve the right to publish, edit for grammar, taste and length. For reprint information, please contact execdir@albertaequestrian.com

6 PRESIDENT ’S M ESSAGE 6 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

8 L IVE OUT SIDE THE B OX The winners of the program that awards time away from television and

computers and more time with horses!

10 BIT S & PIECES

A new emergency livestock handling trailer comes to the MD of Foothills,

thanks in part to efforts from AEF members.

held at Royal West.

12 2018 J.C. ANDERSON LEGACY MEDAL Winners and highlights from the inaugural J.C. Anderson Legacy Medal, 14 TR AINER’S C ORNER Professional dressage trainer Patty Hambling takes us through some of

the finer points of collection and proper practice of a 20-metre circle.

Earth’s coldest temperatures.

18 MAKING EQUUS: STORY OF THE HORSE In this question and answer-style interview, filmmaker Niobe Thompson

tells us about the creation of Equus: Story of the Horse.

22 25 GIFT S FOR HORSE LOVERS Christmas gift ideas for equestrians of all ages.

27 BREED PROFIL E The Yakutian Horse, a fascinating breed that is hardy and equipped for 28 ASK AB OUT INSUR ANCE New changes on the insurance horizon for 2019.

29 CLUB & BUSINESS L ISTINGS

30 C L O SI N G T H E Y E A R Celebrating the AEF’s big 40th anniversary!

The Yakutian

HORSE

WINTER 2018

New MD of Foothills

EMERGENCY TRAILER

The J.C. Anderson

LEGACY MEDAL

ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION

100, 251 Midpark Blvd SE Calgary, AB T2X 1S3 Toll Free: 1.877.463.6233 Phone: 403.253.4411 Fax: 403.252.5260

An Interview with Filmmaker

albertaequestrian.com

4

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

P U B L I C AT I O N S MA I L AG R E EME N T # 4 0 0 5 0 2 9 7

THE AEF GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGES FINANCIAL SUPPORT FROM ALBERTA SPORT CONNECTION

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #40050297 • PRINTED IN CANADA • ISSN 1918 - 7114 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE MAIL TO : ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION 100, 251 MIDPARK BLVD SE CALGARY, AB T2X 1S3

Niobe Thompson

Dressage Precision

25 Gifts for

Horse Lovers A L BERTA EQU EST R IA N .C OM

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY W E S H A R E Y O U R PA S S I O N

ON THE COVER: Canadian anthropologist turned filmmaker, Niobe Thompson tells us about the making of Equus: Story of the Horse. Photo by aAron Munson

Get Your

2019 HORSE SAVVY

DAY PLANNER & EQUINE HEALTH CARE RECORDS

30

$

PRICE INCLUDES

GST

& + Shipping Handling

Order this beautiful dayplanner with your membership, through the AEF Online Store, or stop by the office. Makes a great gift!

PROCEEDS FROM THIS FUNDRAISING INITIATIVE SUPPORTS YOUTH PROGRAMMING

RENEWAL SEASON’S AROUND THE CORNER Current Memberships expire December 31, 2018

MEMBERS AUTOMATICALLY RECEIVE

$5M Liability Insurance $30K Accidental Death & Dismemberment Education & Programs Funding, Awards & Benefits Support and Resources Opportunity to earn a FREE membership INSURANCE PRODUCTS THAT COVER YOU 24/7, WORLDWIDE.

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY W E S H A R E Y O U R PA S S I O N

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

5

Message from President, Lauren Parker It has been a busy start to the winter months in Alberta, with record breaking snowstorms already and trying to hang on to those last few months of autumn. It has also been eventful at the AEF, with many exciting and positive changes on the horizon. In October, the Board of Directors came together for a chock-full day of meetings, and I am happy to report that the board is very engaged with the future of the AEF and doing what we can to encourage growth in the community.

We are diligently working towards our year-end goals and are looking to be on track to follow through with the long-term plans outlined in the AEF 2020 Strategic Plan.

During the months to come, the AEF Board of Directors will be out and about in the community, visiting equestrian events and networking with members and potential new members. If you have an event that you would like the AEF to visit, please let us know and we will ensure that a board member, or two, is available to attend.

The board is focused on aligning efforts toward a competency-based format, sharing new marketing initiatives province wide to grow membership, ensuring financial accountability, continuing efforts to help better educate users on Alberta’s Trail System, and rolling out exciting new programs that will be launched in 2019, some in association with Equestrian Canada. Plans are well underway for the 2019 AGM and Stride with Us; an evening of celebration and

recognition of AEF members. We hope you will join us on Saturday, March 23, 2019 in Red Deer, AB, for this special event.

The past few months have been busy for the AEF in the number, and variety, of clinics we have been hosting to elevate knowledge sharing to our membership. Weekend events have covered a range of topics such as showjumping, three-day eventing and officials’ education. Many of these events are covered through generous donations or grant specific funding.

It is the mandate of the AEF to provide educational resources to our community. This is done in many ways; through online education, in person clinics and events, by providing links and resources for trails, printed resources, information for new equestrians and providing funding where permissible by budget for members’ professional development and educational pursuits. By giving back, AEF can help strengthen the community that supports our industry.

In closing, I would like to wish each and every one of you a wonderful and safe holiday season.

Hug your loved ones, four-legged and not, and remember to relax and enjoy this season of giving.

Until next time, happy trails. AB

Message from Executive Director, Sonia Dantu

Philanthropy is among the most rewarding work that creates a true sense of purpose. Our work at the AEF is grounded in the belief that philanthropy should be a positive force. AEF is committed to giving back to the membership and supporting the industry to make it stronger. Through considering everyone’s interests and activities, creating innovative programming for new and existing participants, and developing efficient best practices, AEF is committed to doing whatever possible to foster a unifying and bonding of community.

AEF prides itself in being accountable to the membership.

In 2018, we were one of four Provincial Sport Organizations in Alberta to receive an increase in core funding from the Government. In all, 83 organizations are funded. This was based on various categories of assessment such as membership growth, financial management, building program capacity, incorporating long-term athlete development, new participants, coaching, competitions and increasing participation of under-represented populations.

Significant fundraising efforts and co-ordination led the way for Equine Emergency Preparedness in the province and the November 1 delivery of the 17th Emergency Livestock Handling Equipment Trailer for the MD of Foothills, will benefit our diverse industry. These efforts are not possible without the support of members and partners. It is the shared passion we all have that solidifies our commitment 6

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

and purpose. Together, by giving back and supporting the community, we all share a dedication to our passion.

The equine industry is diverse; everyone has a different interest, yet many share the same goals. The AEF cannot be everything to everyone, but we can ensure that we respect that diversity and work toward a positive future by advocating, educating, promoting and supporting specific programs. Many individual and club members receive funding to help support their professional development, leadership skills and to offset costs associated with taking part in equine related activities.

As we get close to bringing in a New Year (where did 2018 go?), you will see the AEF focusing on increasing participation, endeavoring to provide additional educational opportunities, fostering a strong sense of community and developing initiatives that, in turn, support the membership.

I would like to personally thank all our members for your ongoing commitment to the AEF, the work we do on your behalf, for communicating with us and for being a vital part of our community.

Without our membership, the AEF could not exist, and for that, we are truly grateful to give back.

All the best, all the time, and sincerely enjoy the season. AB

SAVE THE DATE

STRIDE

WITH US in conjunction with

AEF’s AGM March 23, 2019 Red Deer AB

Outstanding Equine Equipment MADE IN CANADA

Premier Box Stalls

Event Stalls

Box Stalls, Tie Stalls & Portable Event Stalls

Portable Corrals • • • •

Stable folding panel design 50� high x 6’-9� long when folded Easy, one person set-up; no tools 1.5� OD, 60,000 psi high-tensile steel tubing

Mud-Free Footing

Feeders

Paddock Slabs

1-800-661-7002

đ&#x;? đ&#x;?

Round Pens

www.hi-hog.com ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

7

LIVE OUTSIDE THE BOX

GRAND PRIZE WINNERS This year’s Live Outside the Box (LOTB) program came to a close on September 30, and we are extremely proud to announce that each and every participant rose to the challenge! Since April, LOTB Buckaroos logged a whopping total of 11,311 hours of horse time, 19,361 hours of outdoor activity, and consumed 33,295 healthy servings – that’s what we’d call a success!

Congratulations to the monthly draw winners of a Hansbo HS IC Halter:

April – Addison Rock May – Makayla Gilchrist

June – Madison Bozarth July – Victoria Kotello

August – Josie Olthuis September – Anthony Bouffard

Special thanks to McNiven Ranch Supply Ltd., official North American Supplier of Hansbo Sport, proud sponsor of the LOTB program for providing prizes for the monthly draws!

Our grand prize winners worked extremely hard and we are incredibly proud of them. Please help us congratulate them!

TIANA WINKLER

AGE 13 – 1ST PLACE

highest horse time hours Tiana lives in Cochrane, AB. She is 13 years old and has been riding for seven years. Three-day eventing is the discipline in which she competes. She feels very fortunate to have two amazing horses - Faro and Diva. Faro is an 18-year-old Canadian Warmblood, and Diva is a 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood. Hanging out at the barn is definitely her favourite activity!

8

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

VICTORIA KOTELLO AGE 10 – 2ND PLACE

highest horse time hours Victoria is 10-years-old and has been riding since she was six. Her pony, Melody, is 13 years old. Her coach, Frank Selinger, found Melody for her two years ago. Victoria and Melody started in the poles-onthe-ground division and have worked their way up to the 2’3” hunters. Melody is a fantastic pony that loves to work, cuddle and roll. They enjoy competing at RMSJ together. Melody and Victoria really love jumping, cantering around at full speed, going on trail rides and riding in the St. George’s Derby Field. Victoria is so excited to continue riding Melody!

MCKENZIE SAKER

AGE 13 – 3RD PLACE

highest horse time hours Mckenzie is 13 years old and lives with her mom, dad, and sister on an acreage outside of Spruce Grove, AB. This year, she started riding a recently-retired offthe-track Thoroughbred. Throughout the summer, they have been in regular lessons two to three times a week and have gone to camps, clinics, and shows.

The time that she has spent training her Thoroughbred has been some of the best moments of her life. Mckenzie also enjoys singing, acting, soccer, skiing, and track.

LIVE OUTSIDE THE BOX

JAXON CALDWELL AGE 9 – 3RD PLACE

HAILEY LEWICKI

AGE 12 – 1ST PLACE

highest horse time hours Hailey has been riding horses since she was four years old. She was inspired to start when her dad took her to Cavalia eight years ago. She takes lessons with her amazing instructor, Sherry Menard, and also participates in gymkhana events at the Josephburg Gymkhana Club. Hailey tries to ride as much as she can and enjoys spending time with her Quarter Horse, Whiskey. She also likes hiking, exploring, riding, reading, collecting Breyer model horses, swimming and spending time with her best friends, Sasha and Elona.

MIKHAIL LEWICKI AGE 8 – 2ND PLACE

highest horse time hours Mikhail is eight years old and lives in St. Albert, AB. He is in grade three and has many friends that he enjoys spending time with at school, including Jasper, Dexter, Kenzo, Ameer and Koby.

Mikhail loves playing with his Beyblades and Lego and also enjoy playing video games, board games and chess. He also enjoys collecting unique rocks for his special rock collection as well as enjoys time outdoors hiking, playing and spending time with his favorite animal pals, “Pepsi” the mini horse, “Baby” the dog and “Java” the cat.

AIMEE DEVEAUX

LOLITA MERRITT

AGE 11 – 1ST PLACE

highest number of healthy servings consumed Lolita Merritt resides in Fort McMurray, AB. She is 11 years old and has loved horses since she was born. She has the ability to ride other peoples’ horses here in Fort McMurray and gets to ride her own pony, Isabella, when she is in Ontario at her grandparents’ farm. Isabella is a lovely Welsh pony who loves to jump and go on trail rides. Other than riding, Lolita loves to dance, swim and take art classes.

AGE 12 – 2ND PLACE

highest number of healthy servings consumed Aimee is a 12-year-old horse lover from Calgary, AB. This year, Aimee had a fantastic opportunity to lease an awesome Arab/QH cross. His name is Hercules!

He is an amazing horse, and they have learned lots together. This year they were in Pony Club together and also did jumping and dressage shows. Both Hercules and Aimee enjoy apples and carrots. Aimee likes to spend her spare time at the barn riding Hercules and exercising the other horses. When Aimee grows up, she hopes to compete in the Olympics.

highest horse time hours Jaxon is nine years old. He lives in a small town in southern Alberta and is an active member of the local Saddle Club.

This year, him and his spunky Paint pony, Tom, entered in several Family Fun Rodeo events, including poles, barrels, goat untying, flags, and for the first time this year, steer daubing. They did great and experienced so many firsts! When they weren’t taking part in events, we would often find Jaxon in the field just laying on Tom bareback in the pasture. Now, he is working towards team roping and has recently commandeered his dad’s heeling horse, Cash. They are looking forward to getting to know one another throughout the winter season and continuing to learn and grow together.

ANNIKA NOVAKOWSKI AGE 14 – 3RD PLACE

highest number of healthy servings consumed Annika is the youngest of six siblings.

This summer, her family moved to a 40acre property near Tofield, AB, with their 28-year-old Arabian, Showtyme. Moving to an acreage, with their recently adopted chickens, kittens, and four more horses, has been a very fun adjustment!

Annika has been learning a lot about stable management and training their new horses. When she is not riding or working with horses, you’ll find her running, downhill skiing, baking, playing piano or spending time with her awesome family. She also enjoys blogging with one of her sisters about their adventures at sistersfromscratch.org.

LOTB is a fun and FREE program offered to youth members ages 7-15 years old. It encourages them to leave the TV/computer behind and get active (by spending time outdoors and with their horse) as well as to eat healthy (by consuming as much fruits and vegetables as possible!). Simply log totals each month (from April to September) for a chance to win great prizes like digital cameras, fitness trackers, sport video cameras and much more!

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

9

BITS & PIECES

TRAILER #17

A new emergency livestock equipment handling trailer comes to the MD of Foothills.

Members of the MD of Foothills #31 and Emergency Responders.

AEF is a non-profit organization recognized by the Government of Alberta as the official provincial governing body for equestrians. AEF is dedicated to the well-being of equines and works for the equestrian community, including industry, and has significant expertise in equine emergency preparedness and management.

It is estimated that Alberta has over 320,000 horses, approximately 33% of the total horse population in Canada. Every municipality within Alberta has equine and livestock-based businesses; there is not a more diverse industry than the equine industry. The equine industry includes, but is not limited to, racing, sport, ranching, breeding, boarding, feedlots, pleasure, recreation and companion animals.

When an emergency or disaster occurs, equine and livestock owners and custodians are often left on their own to manage the livestock in their care. Experience has shown that 10

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

a lack of emergency structure creates human and animal safety issues and has a negative impact on the response of first responders and municipal emergency

The back of trailer #17.

coordinators to an actual emergency.

Albertans have witnessed the effects that disasters have on the livestock

industry. For example, the significant 2013 floods, the massive 2017 Fort McMurray fires and the livestock transportation roll-overs on Alberta roads. Livestock emergencies are not predictable and may happen any day, any time and at any location.

The AEF has significant expertise in the area of equine emergency management. Over 2017/2018, the AEF created the Alberta Equine Industry Emergency Preparedness Plan, Municipal Guidelines and Templates. This project was made possible by grant funding through the Alberta Government’s Growing Forward. The plan provides an overview of how emergencies are managed in Alberta, preparedness tools and resources, as well as roles, responsibilities and protocols.

Continuing our quest to support the livestock industry and provide leadership in the area of emergency preparedness and

B

001 001 06 001 001 07 07 03 03 001 001 06 001 001 07 07 03 03 001 001 06 001 001 07 07 03 03 04 001

%3

03

07

001

06 001

03

07

001

06 001

03

07

9002 pirtS lortnoC latigiD 7-74621 OSI

001

06 001

A

fundraising initiative. Giving is not just about making a donation; it is about making a difference; and everyone who donated has done just that!

In the event of an emergency, call 911 and request an “Emergency Livestock Handling Equipment Trailer.” AB

04 001

AEF was able to raise close to $15,000 towards the trailer, thanks to many who contributed and helped raise funds: CapriCMW Insurance, Foothills Therapeutic Riding Association, Bar T5 Trailers & Tack, and many, many, many individuals who all supported this

© thgirypoc egami DICS .devreser sthgir llA .ecnaillAEDI © thgirypoC .dohtem 7G eht yb metsys gnigami KYMC yna etarbilac ot desu eb nac mrof sihT ® .ecnaillAEDI fo kramedart deretsiger a si 7G .ecnaillAEDI fo noissimrep nettirw tuohtiw detibihorp trap ro elohw ni noitacilpuD .SEPN

04 001 001 04 04 04 01 07 07 02 04 07 07 04 04 07 0000

91 91 52 4.7 4.7 2.01 2.2 2.2 1.3 04 04 05

905030 / :76 noisrev mroF tseT hcni 12x71 7G

001 07 07 08 001 001 001 66 66 57

09

57

05

52

01

3

04 04 07

04 07 04

04 07 04

04 04 07

04 07 04

001 04

001 04

Les Oakes, AEF Past President and Sonia Dantu, AEF Executive Director.

001

management, the AEF completed fundraising in 2018 for an Emergency Livestock Handling Equipment Trailer for the MD of Foothills #31. The trailer will be used to support the MD in their livestock emergency preparedness and management activities. The trailer will be housed at the Spruce Meadows Fire Station, 18801 Spruce Meadows Way SW, and will service all of the Foothills region in Alberta, home to over 22,500 residents.

Emergency Livestock Handling Equipment Trailers are equipped with tools to assist in the event of a livestock emergency: crowbars, containment articles, first aid supplies, power tools, ladders, etc. There are currently 16 emergency equipped trailers in Alberta located at Municipal Fire Departments and County Technical Rescue locations.

There were gaps in the province where sufficient emergency equipment was not available. One such gap was in the MD of Foothills, where one of the highest concentrations of livestock in Alberta exists. AEF is pleased to be able to add trailer #17.

Independently owned and operated.

306.525.7345 Mention Promo Code PW1 and get 5% OFF your first print order!

New customers only.

1.800.236.6438 www.printwest.com • pw1@printwest.com ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

11

ROYAL WEST 2018 J.C. Anderson Legacy Medal

B Y A E F W R I T E R S • AMANDA UBELL PHOTOGRAPHY

2018 J.C. Anderson Legacy Medal final line-up

ABOVE:

12

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

On October 21, 2018, the inaugural J.C. Anderson Legacy Medal came to a close.

Founded in partnership with the 11 Provincial and Territorial Canadian Equestrian Sport Organizations (P/TSO’s) and generously supported by the J.C. Anderson Family Foundation, the J.C. Anderson Legacy Medal is a skill-based jumper medal held at the 1.20m height. The medal is designed as a jumper equitation class, meaning both speed and technical ability are necessary for success.

Young equestrian athletes from across Canada competed throughout the year to qualify for the National Championship held at the Royal West in Calgary. The top 12 athletes competed in the two-day final, ending with an exciting horse-swap scenario for the four finalists. The riders switched mounts and proceeded to jump a small course. According to finalist Shaelynn Enders, this was the highlight of her experience.

“That was the first time that I got to switch horses,” she says.

“I have competed in medals a lot, and to be one of the ones to switch horses was really cool, and Mikayla has a great horse,” Enders adds.

Alberta’s own Mikayla Brabant and her horse Cortofino came out on top, clinching the gold medal following Brabant’s outstanding performance during the horse-swap.

Austin Krawitt from Alberta and Scirocco 91 received the silver medal, while bronze was awarded to Shaelynn Enders, also from Alberta, and Princessa.

Brabant has been focusing on medals to better her equitation. She explains, “It is essential in becoming a top rider. I have really realized since I started doing the equitation [that] I have become more consistent – even in my jumpers – which has made me much more successful.”

The AEF would like to congratulate all of the riders for their participation in this exciting and important new medal competition. The J.C. Anderson Medal fills a gap in the athlete development pathway, and we are all looking forward to seeing what the future holds for these fantastic young athletes! AB TOP: Mikayla Brabant takes first place in the J.C. Anderson Legacy Medal.

J.C. Anderson Legacy Medal 1.20m Overall Results: 1. Mikayla Brabant – Chestermere, Alberta 2. Austin Krawitt – Okotoks, Alberta 3. Shaelynn Enders – Calgary, Alberta 4. Anya Bereznicki – Calgary, Alberta 5. Jaydan Stettner – Regina, Saskatchewan 6. Kyara Semrau – Foothills, Alberta 7. Campbell Legere – Hammonds Plains, Nova Scotia 8. Ashton Wozniak – Foothills, Alberta 9. Sarah Wilson – Calgary, Alberta 10. Beatrice Daviault – Saint-Damase, Quebec 11. Nicole Osmond – Windsor, Nova Scotia 12. Hannah Rajotte – Calgary, Alberta

Austin Krawitt takes second place in the J.C. Anderson Legacy Medal.

MIDDLE:

BOTTOM: Shaelynn Enders takes third place in the J.C. Anderson Legacy Medal ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

13

TRAINER’S CORNER

THE FINER POINTS

Professional dressage trainer Patty Hambling explains some of the finer details of accomplishing collection and a proper 20-metre circle.

ST ORY & PH OT O S B Y J E N N W E B ST E R

Dressage is considered by many to be one of the highest expressions of horse training. Great attention to detail must be considered in all aspects of preparing the horse and rider. The finely-tuned display comes from proper body position of the rider, precise body carriage of the horse and hours of disciplined practice. Dressage riders assess their skills through a progressive series of tests, with the long-term goal of the Grand Prix level in mind.

Moving upwards from one level to the next means the horse can accomplish the required maneuvers in a test with accuracy and self carriage.

If you’ve ever watched a dressage test, you’ll know the rider must be able to direct their mount to a specific letter in the arena and send them from one point to another, executing different movements as they go. A variety of letters are used during dressage tests to instruct the rider where to perform different movements, such as changing the rein from K, across the diagonal to M, for example. The letters help the rider visualize geometric shapes in the arena and indicate reference points where movements should be ridden.

Dressage is considered an art form and horse and rider are expected to perform in harmony, a series of predetermined movements.

In this article, professional trainer Patty Hambling of Okotoks, AB, helps us break down the elements of accomplishing a 20-metre circle – a foundation exercise that sets the 14

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

stage for more complicated dressage maneuvers. Riding a seven-year-old PRE Andalusian stallion, Hambling shows us some of her techniques for obtaining that perfect sphere-like shape.

Just in case you were wondering, PRE stands for pura raza española meaning, Pure Spanish Horse. The prefix PRE in front of a registered Andalusian name indicates the horse was bred in the Iberian Peninsula, where its ancestors have lived for thousands of years. Though the Warmblood is often the most common breed seen in the discipline of dressage, the Andalusian is quickly becoming a coveted mount in modern competitive sport. Hambling is fond of the breed’s demeanor, good looks and smooth gaits, as she has seen first-hand how much the Andalusian can compliment her adult amateur riders.

Here Hambling explains the basics of collection, some techniques for the correction of imperfect circles and ideas for cross-training.

FOCUS ON COLLECTION

“A horse is naturally built like a forward parallelogram, carrying more weight on the forehand and our goal is to eventually change that into a backwards parallelogram,” says Hambling. “We want to shift the horse’s weight from the front end, onto the hind end and then perform the required movements in this balance. We want the horse to be relaxed but be in a state of ‘positive tension’ (tension with suppleness), be

energetic, quick and respond precisely to the rider’s aids.”

A rider’s responsibility is to maintain a proper seat and balance.

“What we mean by this is that if the horse were to disappear from underneath, I’d land directly on my feet in a balanced standing position, neither tipping forwards or backwards,” she states.

This means the rider’s shoulders, hips and heels would all line up vertically.

Hambling also refers to something she calls a “neutral pelvis.”

“Think of your pelvis as a bowl and you don’t want to spill water out the front or back, this is the neutral position,” she explains. This acts as the foundation of the rider’s position, with the upper body being stacked like blocks on top of it and the legs hanging below.

“If the rider isn’t balanced, it’s harder for the horse to be in balance,” Hambling says.

Next the rider’s hands should be out in front and there should be an imaginary line from the bit, to the hand, to the rider’s elbow.

She also says that controlling the horse’s shoulders, as opposed to their nose, is her goal. Hambling refrains from using too much hand to gain control of her mount as this is something she refers to as “backwards riding.”

“We want to ride the horse’s hind end up to our hands and not vice versa!”

With practice the horse learns to carry himself with proper self-carriage, meaning he is in balance, he is “on

TRAINER’S CORNER

RIGHT: Patty Hambling is an AEF member and a professional dressage trainer. Here, she explains some foundation exercises that set the stage for more complicated dressage maneuvers.

the bit” with soft rein contact and maintaining impulsion, causing him to elevate his back. Hambling points out that there are different levels of selfcarriage, especially considering the fact that younger, less developed horses are not be able to step underneath themselves as much. However, when she feels her mount beginning to shift his weight backwards and lift his front end, she knows that this is the beginning of self-carriage. It’s a feeling that is very difficult to describe with words on paper, but experienced riders know they have it when they can create impulsion from their driving aids and contain the horse’s forward motion via half halts produced from the rider’s body. The horse flexes at the poll, maintaining an even contact on both sides of the bit (as dressage is meticulously symmetrical), engages its hind end and lifts his back and shoulders. The horse does not have to have his head perfectly perpendicular to the ground as it is acceptable in dressage tests, to have the nose slightly in front of the vertical.

Ultimately, it’s a state of “willing partnership” while maintaining this ideal body-carriage, that allows the rider to have utmost body control over the horse. Meaning, Hambling can direct any part of her mount’s body anywhere she wants.

“Dressage has to be so accurate – you can’t fudge your way through it,” she says. “And you want to show minimal movement on your part, to the judges.

So your horse must really be listening to you every step of the way in a dressage test.”

Instead, through the process of practice at home, Hambling trains her horses to respond to her aids with remarkable lightness in every circle and change of direction. She trains for responsiveness to her legs and accuracy in steering by practicing corners and ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

15

TRAINER’S CORNER LEFT: By using cones strategically placed at the four main

circle points that the horse must travel through, Hambling helps her horses and riders visualize a proper 20-metre circle.

RIGHT: Trot poles are an excellent cross-training exercise that help to strengthen different muscles of the horse.

later ask the horse to move out sideways in the opposite direction, somewhere else along the circle.

“One of our main goals is to make the horse ambidextrous,” says Hambling.

“So whatever you do on one side, you have to do on the other.”

CROSS TRAINING

acute circle points during schooling.

She also uses cross-training methods to ensure her horses are constantly waiting on her cues and not anticipating what she’ll ask next.

20 METRE CIRCLE PRACTICE

To practice correctness in a 20-metre circle, Hambling often utilizes pylons at various points on the circle. Not only do the pylons give the horse and rider something to visualize, they help to ensure no “flat spots” occur as the horse executes the circle.

“Often I place 2 cones at the 4 circle points that describe the line of the circle,” the trainer explains. “The horse must travel through the cones at each point, performing a curved line to my next circle point and so on.”

Circle points occur at 12, 3, 6 and 9 on an imaginary clock that Hambling instructs her students to visualize within the 20-metre shape. If the horse seemingly struggles to maintain the line to travel through the pylons, this often means they are falling in or out of the circle. If they do, Hambling uses her leg to correct the horse however, she is 16

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

careful not to over correct, causing them to swing the opposite direction.

“If this happens, essentially I would keep riding forward towards the next circle point. And I’d instruct my students to do the same. If you mess up one section of the circle, hopefully you can do better on the next section,” she says.

Hambling practices the 20-metre circle at a walk, then progresses up to the trot once she can accomplish it properly at the lower gait. She’ll then move upwards to the canter, riding transitions on the circle. She will also add smaller 10m circles within the large circle. Focusing on starting and finishing these circles at the circle points. This helps ensure the horse is always listening to her cues and never anticipating. Then she’ll put her mount back onto the 20-metre circle and continue on.

Another way to mix up the practice in training is by asking the horse to halt on the circle, apply leg and push the horse’s body out sideways from the circle. This tactic is largely used if the horse is “falling inwards” on the circle. However, Hambling is quick to point out that it’s important to always work the horse’s body symmetrically, therefore she would

Utilizing trot poles on her 20-metre circle is another way Hambling crosstrains her dressage prospects. The poles help the horse activate different muscles than what would normally be required to perform a circle. They encourage rounding of the horse’s back and strengthening of the abdominal muscles.

Placed along the ground, in a fanlike formation following the outline of the 20-metre circle, trot poles also act as a visual guide for the horse and rider. They can help the rider lengthen or shorten the horse’s stride while maintaining rhythm.

“Poles act as a visual for the rider to be accurate on their line, but at the same time, encourages riders to ride forward to get through them. We have to be accurate while riding forward!” she says.

This difficulty increases ten-fold when she raises the trot poles off the ground for more elevation.

“Raised trot poles helps to increase the lift in a horse’s stride. It’s a strengthbuilding exercise because the horse has to pick its feet up higher than normal.

It’s just another way to cross train for perfection of the circle.”

PRECISION EQUALS ADVANCEMENT

By demanding correctness in all elements of her training, Hambling’s horses carry themselves in balance and execute preciseness in every exercise.

Her cognizance of circle points help develop her mount’s accuracy of the maneuver, and her cross-training techniques keep things interesting after hours of practice.

It’s this kind of commitment that

TRAINER’S CORNER

A rider’s responsibility is to maintain a proper seat and balance. This means the rider’s shoulders, hips and heels should all line up vertically. Hambling also looks for something she refers to as the “neutral pelvis.”

lays the ground work for progression in Hambling’s barn. Though the small aspects may seem unimportant at first, it’s easy to see how correct rider position and proper attention to detail go hand in hand with the advancement through dressage levels. AB

ABOUT THE TRAINER

Involvement in horses started for Patty Hambling as many young girls do, begging her parents for a pony, which progressed into riding through fields and up the road. This transitioned into becoming a member of the local pony club, and progressing through their many levels and exams.

At first, show jumping and eventing were Hambling’s main interests, but through the guidance and example of some influential trainers, her passion for dressage was ignited.

She gained experience and knowledge at different barns in the area, achieving her B.Sc and B.Ed as well as her Competition Coach Specialist designation during this time.

Hambling now has the pleasure of running the beautiful stable, Pon Equus, belonging to one of her longtime clients.

Pon Equus is a smaller private barn that focuses on quality long-term relationships.

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

17

Making Equus:

STORY OF THE HORSE

A Q&A with Dr. Niobe Thompson

Canadian anthropologist turned filmmaker, Niobe Thompson, spent the last three years exploring our relationship with the animal he calls “our best friend.” Not dogs, but horses.

Thompson lived and filmed with horse cultures from the Siberian Arctic, to the Arabian Desert. He joined archeologists and geneticists as they discovered evidence of the earliest domestication 18

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

of the horse. He even worked with scientists to bring a 45-million-year-old horse fossil back to life. In this question and answer-style interview, Thompson tells us what it took to make Equus: Story of the Horse.

Q. Humans have domesticated quite many species – cats, dogs, cows, even honeybees. So what stands out about horses?

NT. Horses were domesticated quite late, just 6,000 years ago. Compare that to cats 10,000 years ago, or dogs as early as 35,000 years ago. Our ancestors hunted horses for far longer than that, but we only began to benefit from horsepower relatively recently. When we did harness horses, the effect was absolutely transformative – the human story was more or less shaped by the horse from that point onwards. Even

OPPOSITE PAGE: Horse herds on the Assy Plateau,

© aAron munson

Tien Shan Mountains, Kazakhstan.

RIGHT: Botai ‘first riders,’ northern Kazakhstan,

part of the cast actors, horse-stunt specialists and elaborate special acts employed to make Equus: Story of the Horse.

today, we talk about horsepower as the mechanical force that carries us and does our work – but only three or four generations ago, horsepower actually meant horsepower.

It’s hard to summarize just how completely horses turned human history on its head, but think about this: Today, over half the population of the planet speaks a language of the Indo-European language family. Meaning, four billion people speak languages that descend from a single mother tongue. Well, that original language belonged to the earliest humans to ride horses, a tiny population of nomads in Central Asia, who got on the back of their horses and took the world by storm.

So I’m not being provocative when I say, horses really are our best friend: what other animal is so powerful, and so fast, and at the same time so willing to do what we ask of them? Not elephants.

Not camels. Dogs are fine, but we can’t ride them and they can’t pull a big load, or plow a field. If you look back at the animal partners we’ve had through time, the partnership with horses outshines them all.

Q.

You’re from Alberta – horse country. But you went all the way to northern Siberia to film horses.

What was that about?

NT. Well, here at home, we love horses.

Almost 50% of the horses in Canada live in Alberta. But in most cases, they’re our pets. Working ranches still rely on real horsepower, but for the most part, we don’t need horses to survive. That kind of horse – a leisure horse – is really a completely new thing in the big scheme of history.

Today, you need to go to the ends of the earth to find traditional cultures, where horses make it possible to survive where we couldn’t survive alone. One of those places is a part of Siberia recorded as the coldest inhabited place on Earth – Yakutia.

800 years ago, the Yakutians were refugees from the wars of Ghenghis Khan, and they fled north with their horses. They

probably didn’t know they were fleeing from the frying pan into the fire, or rather to the coldest place on Earth. But there they stayed and the extreme cold shaped their horses into a fascinating breed.

Yakutian horses never lie down over the nine-month winter and they’ve developed a kind of standing hibernation to lower their metabolism in the coldest weather.

Completely unique behaviour!

As amazing at Yakutian horses are, then you have the Arab horse, which humans took into the hottest deserts on Earth.

And that horse became exquisitely well adapted to extreme heat. So horses are really an incredibly adaptable creature, and we’ve taken them almost everywhere we’ve gone on this planet.

Q. You’re known to go to extreme

lengths to get the “inside science story” in your films. What was the hardest thing you did this time?

NT. We filmed with some of the last real nomads anywhere on Earth – Kazakh herders in the Altai Mountains of Mongolia. This is just a tiny population, whose ancestors fled first the Soviet and then the Chinese revolutions in order to keep their nomadic way of life alive.

And they’ve found a place to do this in the most rugged and isolated mountain environment you can imagine. I was overjoyed to be able to visit them, to live alongside them off and on over the course

of a year, because I knew they could show me how horses make it possible to survive as a nomadic herding culture. You know, in the past, a very large part of the human population lived as nomads and pastoralist herders – so these Kazakhs give us a glimpse of this past.

But to really drive home how central horsepower is to the Kazakhs, I needed to join my hosts on the hardest journey they take: the winter migration. At the end of winter, they drive their sheep, goats, yaks and horses from the low valleys to the high alpine spring camp.

Their animals are pregnant by this time and they have to reach the spring camp before they start giving birth. But the year I joined them was a historic snow year – all the mountain passes were blocked with snow.

I’ve spent a lot of time in the saddle over the years, but never five days in a row in bitter cold. It was a very humbling experience – excruciating! But there was a nine-year old boy with us, and he was fine. Just kept on smiling.

We were so high up in the mountains, the film crew couldn’t travel with us. I had to film much of it myself, on horseback.

We were sleeping in stone huts, feeding the animals the hay we could carry, and using the horses to break a trail through the snow. The winter migration had never been filmed before – I knew this when we started, but when we got through it, I understood why!

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

19

LEFT: Niobe Thompson on the winter migration in the Altai Mountains, Mongolia.

RIGHT: Father and son from the Solutre culture.

Q. You promise viewers a first-ever look at the ancestor of horses, who you call “Dawn Horse.” This animal turns out to be nothing like the horse we know today. What did you discover?

NT. That’s right – the ancestors of horses were a completely different creature to the great big, grassland runner we know now. Just like our primate ancestors, the ancestors of horses emerged tens of millions of years ago after the extinction of dinosaurs.

But at that time, Earth was a greenhouse planet – tropical and covered with dense forests. So the animal we call “Dawn Horse” was adapted to that world. It was a tiny little fox-like creature, who scampered around in the cover of forests and ate leaves and fruit.

There are some really good fossils of Dawn Horse in Germany, so we worked with a famous German expert in animal movement, Martin Fischer, to create a scientifically realistic animation of this creature for the series. It took Martin a year of work to scan the bones, rebuild each one into a digital model, put it all together, and then figure out how the animal moved. Once his team created the shape and movement, our Canadian animators were able to take over and put Dawn Horse into real-life settings. This is a major scientific achievement and it 20

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

means our viewers will be the first to see the ancestor of horses in 3D animation.

Q. Was there a single “wow moment” in the two years you spent filming the series?

NT.

After all the hard work of researching the story and raising the funding, when I finally get out on location, I always have a few moments that really put me on my rear end.

When I say to myself, “Niobe, I can’t believe you’re actually here!” At dawn in Siberia in minus 50C, bringing a herd of Yakutian horses in to feed, with the first rays of sunlight painting the ice crystals orange. Galloping on a crazy Arab horse across the sand in the Arabian Desert, the only time I actually felt cool in weeks!

But for this project, I think the real “wow moment” was on Sable Island with the only truly wild horses on Earth. Sable Island is this windswept dune of sand 300kms off the coast of Nova Scotia, and the horses there live completely on their own. No vet care, no feeding, no human interaction at all. I was out there in January with a biologist, Phil McLoughlin, and looking at these stout, hairy little horses, I realized, “this is Darwin’s world!” Horses don’t need us to survive – they’re perfectly happy on their own.

Q. You built a gladiator’s chariot for the series. What was the point of that experiment?

NT. Yes, that was fun! So as we know, horses had a pretty big impact on warfare, but the earliest battle technology to use horses wasn’t horse archery or fighting from a saddle. It was the single-axle chariot. If we look at classical art and literature, we see that chariots are suddenly everywhere, from ancient Egypt to India, to China. So, I was in the British Museum looking at all these examples of kings and warriors standing in chariots and going into battle, and it just didn’t make any sense to me. I mean, this was a world without roads, and you’ve got people standing in chariots, racing across rough ground, actually aiming their arrows and spears.

How was it possible?

To answer this question, we had to actually build a chariot and test it. I had to try to ride in a chariot myself. We worked with a master chariot builder in England, who used the archeological remains of one of the oldest chariots ever discovered, in China. Over 3,000 years old. And he built a beautiful working model that we could put behind two chariot horses and run at high speed. It was truly terrifying – I found it almost impossible to stay on your feet. I thought those wheels were going to eat me alive.

But we made a discovery! It turns out, all that standing up you see in the ancient art is a bit of a brag. But there is a deadly way of fighting from a chariot.

Q. When you started making this series, did you know that the only truly wild horse left in the world lives in Canada?

NT.

No, that was a complete surprise.

I knew about the Przewalski horses that are being reintroduced in Mongolia. But those are cousins of the horse – many would consider them a different species.

And I knew about the Mustangs of the American West and the horses of the Carolina Channel Islands. But it turns out the only horses that live in complete separation from humans, that have no vet care, no human intervention in their lives, are the horses of Sable Island, off the coast of Nova Scotia.

The roughly 500 horses on Sable – and you have to understand that this is really just an uninhabited strip of sand 300 km off the East Coast – descend from some kind of introduced population. Some say they were the survivors of shipwrecks.

Perhaps they were left by failed settlers.

But now they’ve been living on their own for at least 40 horse generations.

They are wild. They are surviving on their own.

These horses are completely different to domestic horses. It’s Darwin’s world out there and natural selection is shaping a new horse. So they’re smaller and hairier and more stout than domestic horses. They don’t have any predators, so they don’t run away, they don’t fright at anything, because that would be a waste of energy. And they have this amazing reliance on the one other mammal on Sable – grey seals, who poop huge amounts of fertilizer onto the sand. The seals fertilize the grass, which feeds the horses.

We were incredibly fortunate to get access to Sable Island, because this is a national park that is not meant for human visitors – it’s meant to preserve the unique animal life there, including the horses. But there is some scientific research on Sable and Phil McLoughlin from USask is able to visit the island with his team to observe how the horses are evolving in isolation from humans. We were able to go onto the island with Phil.

Q.

Parts of the series feel more like an epic drama than a traditional science doc. More like Game of Thrones, with costumes and sets and props. What were you trying to achieve?

NT. It was very important to us to bring

the world of the earliest riders to life, in the most vivid and exciting ways possible. So we went to Kazakhstan. We spent a month filming with thousands of horses and a big team of horse stunt experts, sleeping in yurts out on the steppes. Our camera got run over by a galloping horse. We built a chase camera with a beat-up old pickup truck. We crashed our drone, several times.

But we needed to go to the other side of the world, to Kazakhstan, because this is where horses were first domesticated, this is where it all began 6,000 years ago.

Alberta may be horse country, but you have to go to Central Asia to see thousands of horses running across the horizon.

huge animal to submit itself to us weak little humans. How does that happen?

We booked a week with a man named Jimmy Anderson, who’s known in horse circles as a kind of magician, a man who can get a horse to do anything. He was on a ranch in southern Alberta and he had an unbroken colt called Shiver. On the first day, Jimmy warned me, “Ya know, Niobe, this isn’t gonna take a week…”

So the first thing I learned is that it isn’t called “breaking a horse” any more – it’s called “starting a horse.” Jimmy doesn’t break the spirit of the horse, he kind of gets to know it, and makes it a friend.

The second thing is, it doesn’t take a week – at least when Jimmy’s doing it.

The sequence we filmed just leaves you floored – just like I was when I saw what Jimmy can do, and how.

Q. The series has some incredible sequences of horse racing in it, from the Kentucky Derby to Mongolia, but it was an unknown kind of racing right here in Canada that stole the show. Can you tell us about “North America’s original extreme sport?”

NT.

We worked with our partners in Kazakhstan over a year to build costumes, cast actors and horse-stunt specialists, find our locations, and even build a perfect scientific replica of the 6,000-year old village of the earliest humans to domesticate the horse. It was an incredible adventure!

The comparison with Game of Thrones has an element of truth – the horse stunt experts who appear in our dramatic recreations have also been cast as Dothrakian warriors in Thrones.

Q. The idea of horse whisperers is familiar to most people. But it turns out you found the real thing right here in Canada.

NT. That’s right. So I’d ridden a lot of

horses, but I’d never broken a horse. Never seen it done. And I was curious about this process, because at some point in every riding horse’s life, someone convinces this

It’s called Indian Relay, at least by those who practice this sport. To me, when I first witnessed this kind of horse racing, it looked completely nuts.

Teams compete on a single quarter-mile track and a single jockey from each team gallops bareback in soft shoes or moccasins, changing horses three or four times. So you have riders galloping in to the exchange area, jumping off their running horses, taking a few steps, jumping onto another horse, and taking off. It’s all happening in one chaotic melee, with horses and riders and handlers, at high speed, several times a race.

But Indian Relay is actually the modern incarnation of the traditional horse races that the Blackfoot, the Shoshone, the Crow and other Plains horse cultures have practiced ever since the arrival of the horse 400 years ago. It was a privilege for us to follow a team from the Siksika First Nation in Alberta as they prepared for the first ever running of an Indian Relay at the Calgary Stampede. It’s really a joyful, inspirational story from a community that doesn’t always make the news in a good way. AB ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

21

25

PERFECT GIFTS for HORSE LOVERS

For Her

HORSE CALENDAR

YETI RAMBLER

The Yeti Rambler 14 oz Mug is the toughest, most over-engineered camp mug out there. The perfect gift for those in your life who love the wild. ($34.99) www.irvinesaddles.ca

QHP BOOT BAGS

Fashionable, functional and fun – all wrapped up into the QHP Boot Bags.

Ensure your boots stay clean, dry and well loved. ($49) www.equestrianfashionoutfitters.com

22

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

HERR WILD RAGS

Fun and crazy prints from Herr Wild Rags spice up your traditional neck rag and make any outfit pop. ($70) www.facebook.com/Herr-Wild-Rags

BAD HOSS SILVER

A simple turquoise touch goes a long ways, this natural royston turquoise necklace from Bad Hoss Silver is a perfect hint of blue. ($190) www.facebook.com/badhosssilver

A great gift for any horse lover, the Hoof Beats Calendar features artwork from Kim Penner of Lacombe, Alberta. ($22.95) www.horsestore.com

HORZE VERENA VEST

Two words to describe the Horze Verena Vest in Falcon Brown: stunning and stylish! ($99) www.equestrianfashionoutfitters.com

Make Christmas unforgettable with these tidings of joy for everyone on the list.

B Y LOU I S A M U R C H W H I T E & J E N N W E B ST E R

s e s r o H r u o Y r Fo HORZE AVALANCHE BLANKET DRYGUY Waterproofing product from Strathcona Ventures is ideal for horse blankets that have lost their waterproofing, saddle blankets and even saddles! It dries odourfree and is eco-friendly as it is water-based and does not use harsh chemicals that could be harmful to animals. ($16) www.irvinesaddles.ca

The Horze Avalanche Pro Lite/Med 1200 D Turnout with Fleece Lining is the perfect blanket for your beloved equine. The warm fleece lining will keep them cozy throughout the winter and the lightweight sheet on top is perfect for fall mornings or light rain. ($199.95) www.horsestore.com

HI-HOG PORTABLE PANELS

HANSBO SPORT GEAR

Get your horse decked out in Hansbo Sport, a product featuring both ceramic and magnetic fibres. The horse pictured here is wearing the Hansbo halter, sweat and travel rug and quick wraps. (Prices Vary) www.hansbosportna.com

MOHAIR CINCH

A custom mohair cinch from TC Custom Cinches in your favourite vibrant colours is a great gift to receive under the tree. (Prices Vary) www.facebook.com/ tccustomcinches/

Hi-Hog Portable Panels are handy to have at home, or heading down the road to a show.

(Inquire for Pricing) www.hi-hog.com

ANKY DRESSAGE PADS

You can do fun and wild colours in any discipline! Check out these ANKY Dressage Pads in Hummingbird, Bluebird and Parrot. ($99) www.equestrianfashionoutfitters.com ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

23

For Him

MOUNTAIN SLEIGH RIDE

Take him for a sleigh ride in a winter wonderland experience he’ll never forget! Your memorable excursion at Warner Stables in Banff, AB includes a fireside warm-up stop after the ride where you can toast a marshmallow and enjoy a warm drink. ($38 per person) www.horseback.com

JOHN DEERE WIFI CAMERA

The John Deere WiFi Camera 100 is an indoor camera that combines both value and innovation in one. Use the free iSecurity+ app (iOS, Android) for your smartphone or tablet device and check in on your property, equipment or loved ones with smooth HD streaming video. ($129) www.martindeerline-store.com

PORTABLE SADDLE RACK

WOODGUARD™

Who doesn’t want a fence that can’t be chewed? Fencing lumber is treated with a non-toxic, organic-certified borate compound to protect against dry rot, termites, and fungus. Never paint, sand, seal or stain again!

(Inquire for pricing) www.strathconaventures.com

24

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

The Tack Collector is a hidden gem for equestrian savings. Take this two-tier rolling basket saddle rack and cart for instance, that allows easy access for all his show and grooming needs. He’ll love the convenience and portability it offers, wherever he may go. Your wallet will love the rack’s consignment price. www.thetackcollector.ca

EIS MEN’S LONG SLEEVE SHOW SHIRT

The Equi In Style Men’s Longsleeve Performance Shirt from Equestrian Fashion Outfitters features cuttingedge fabric technology that combines body-cooling IceFil with the most advanced moisture control – and the equivalent of SPF 50 UV protection.

This shirt is perfect for the stylish, active equestrian athlete! ($99) www.equestrianfashionoutfitters.com

For the Home JOHN DEERE SALT AND PEPPER SET

This nostalgic John Deere stoneware salt and pepper set in the shape of a barn and silo is the perfect gift for JD fans. Decorated in green and cream, it’s a beautiful set for any farmhouse kitchen. ($20) www.martindeerline-store.com

DROPS OF JUPITER

Own a piece of reknowned artist, Shannon Lawlor’s work with a print from her collection.

Drops of Jupiter is special for anyone who loves horses as you can truly feel the appreciation between the animal and his caretaker. (Prices range from $200-$1,100) www.shannonlawlor.com

HANDMADE STOCKINGS

Crafted from real Pendleton® Blankets by Janine’s Custom Creations exclusively for Western Horse Review Boutique, these beautiful stockings show off your western heritage. Fill them with all kinds of Christmas goodies and admire the elegance of your mantle as you do. ($60) whr-boutique.westernhorsereview.com

SERAPE COMFORTER SET This beautiful serape comforter set from Frontier Western Shop comes with three pieces that include the comforter and two pillow shams. Guaranteed to turn any bedroom into a western oasis. Available in queen or king sizes. (From $363) www.westernshop.com

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

25

s d i K r o F EYELIKE STICKERS BOOK

Guaranteed to bring unbridled joy to every kid and crafter who loves horses, Eyelike Stickers: Horses has over 400 equestrian-themed, full-color photographic and illustrated stickers. ($11) greenhawk.com

BREYER® CLASSICS® BATH TIME

Suds are the only things missing in this Breyer® Classics® Bath Time Fun set.

Your little animal lover can give her pony a spa treatment and the fun never ends with this exciting toy set! ($38) greenhawk.com

BREYER® HORSES

Looking for the perfect vintage gift for your kids? The Tack Collector has a great selection of Breyer® horses available ranging in production years and models. Like this Northumberland Flowergirl Clydesdale Mare, for example.

Produced only in 1999 until 2003, this collector’s item is now hard to find. ($38) www.thetackcollector.ca

JOHN DEERE SIPPY CUP

A spill-proof valve is built into the lid of this adorable John Deere sippy cup! Double-wall insulation keeps drinks cooler longer and a sweat-proof surface makes it easy to grip. ($8) www.martindeerline-store.com

26

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

BREED PROFILE © aAron munson

THE YAKUTIAN HORSE CBC Docs recently launched an equine-centered documentary, Equus: Story of the Horse, which is igniting excitement for horse breeds around the world. In this issue of Alberta Bits, we explore one of the fascinating breeds that appeared on the documentary, the Yakutian horse.

B Y LOU I S A M U R C H W H I T E

The Yakutian horse is a rare native horse breed from the Siberian Sakha Republic, garnering its name from the region itself, the Yakutia. The locals, the Yakuts, have relied heavily on the breed for over 800 years. The Yakutian horse has been used for transportation, food in the form of horse meat and clothing made from horse hides. All aspects have played a central role in the region’s economy.

Although not found in Canada, the breed could certainly adapt well to our climate. The Yakutia region is extreme in nature. Annual temperatures fluctuate between +38c and reach extreme colds of -70c. Winter can be unbearable, often lasting upwards of eight months. The Yakutian horse is famous for its adaptability. The breed is able to locate and graze on vegetation buried beneath deep snow, while also successfully surviving without shelter in the area.

©Teh Han Lin/Barcroft images

The Yakutian horse was truly built for the extreme climate of Siberia. The breed sets itself apart from neighbouring breeds, the Mongolian horse and Przewalski horse, as it is larger in stature, averaging 13.2-13.3 hands. In winter, their shaggy coat can reach 10 cm in length, and one of their noticeable features include bushy tails and long manes that cover both their neck and shoulders to protect them from the wind and snow. The breed’s short, but wide feet help them dig out grass under thick snow, and the straight neck attributed to the breed is an adaption to help the horse retain heat in the extreme summer months.

During the summer, they lose almost 20% of their body weight and start accumulating up to 35 kilograms of fat to hold them through the winter. To store body heat, the volume of their urine decreases from 19.8 litres to 12.6 in the cold months. During the winter, the pace of breathing decreases from 10 breaths per minute to 10-12 breaths per minute.

Scientists are particularly interested in the Yakutian horses for the rapid speed of evolution their breed has experienced.

The Yakutian horse breed was founded following the migration of the Yakut people into the region in the 13-15th century AD. One of their closest ancestors of the breed is the Mongolian horse. However, the Yakutian horse has a remarkable modified morphology compared to any of their ancestors.

These evolutionary modifications include hormones and a metabolism that affect their hair development, limb length and body size, explaining their unique appearance. In less than 800 years in the region, the Yakutian horse has developed striking adaptations to cope with the extreme cold. These adaptations are one of the fastest examples of evolution within mammals seen in science today. AB ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

27

ASK ABOUT INSURANCE

ON THE HORIZON

The insurance program provided to members of the Alberta Equestrian Federation is a significant benefit, and as we begin 2019, the following is worth noting.

What’s Unchanged

The $5,000,000 Personal Liability insurance that is included with every membership that the AEF offers remains the most talked about and most relied upon policy in the offering – and with good reason. Individuals, facility operators, coaches, show managers and associations all understand that this 24-houra-day, worldwide policy is a critical element of a sound risk management plan.

The $30,000 Principal Sum Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance will also continue to be included with every AEF membership. Similar to the liability insurance component, the “AD&D” policy provides a safety net for those who suffer a catastrophic injury – something that no one plans for, but occasionally does happen. Please note that this policy does not provide coverage for fracture or dental injuries (see optional AD&D coverage below).

The optional insurance offering has been updated for 2019, and we are pleased to be able to continue our offering of: • $50,000 AD&D coverage to increase the limits of coverage for catastrophic injury and includes fracture and dental benefits.

• $10,000 Members Named Perils mortality insurance coverage for any horse that you own. This optional and innovative product has been very well received for several years by the membership.

• $2,500 Emergency Life Saving Surgery (ELSS) coverage is something we introduced to AEF members in 2018. It too has been well received and utilized by many facing difficult financial burdens due to their horses being in dire need of veterinary care. Remember, in order to acquire this coverage, your horse(s) must also be insured by the Members Named Perils coverage as described above.

28

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

CapriCMW What’s New Brand Guidelines The Weekly Accident Indemnity policy is now enhanced to include its own $50,000 principal sum AD&D coverage, so in the event a serious injury interrupts the income stream Version 1.1 | October 2017 of someone who is employed, additional benefits may be available.

The Travel coverage available to AEF members has been improved for 2019 as well. CapriCMW has teamed with a travel insurance provider to bring an individualized travel experience that takes into full consideration the needs of the member regardless of age or duration of trip. To add to the improvements, we have negotiated a limit of $10,000,000 in coverage for our travel clients. 2019 AEF members will be directed to the travel site through a link after completing your membership renewal.

In the coming months, we expect to be making announcements about other offerings and will be seeking your input – please continue sharing your feedback. After all, we are in service to you, the members of AEF, and are proud to be your insurance and risk management partner.

Michael (Mike) King, CAIB, R.I.B.

Mike King is a partner at CapriCMW Insurance and the program lead for the PTSO programs across Canada. For more information, please call the Agri-department at CapriCMW Insurance, 1-800-670-1877 or agri@capricmw.ca

MEMBER ORGANIZ ATIONS AS OF AUGUST 17, 2018 IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE ABOUT ONE OF THESE CLUBS, OR JOINING, MAKE SURE YOU CONTACT THEM Advocates for Special Kids......................................................................... conniehjalmar@gmail.com Alberta Carriage Driving Association (ACDA)............................................ www.albertadriving-acda.ca Alberta Central Region Pony Club ............................................................panddjensen@hotmail.com Alberta Dressage Association.................................................................... www.albertadressage.com Alberta Equestrian Vaulting Association......................................................................vaultcanada.org Alberta Friesian Horse Association........................................................................................... afha.ca Alberta Horse Trials Association................................................................www.albertahorsetrials.com Alberta Morgan Horse Club ......................................................... www.albertamorganhorseclub.com Alberta Mounted Shooters........................................................................ albertamountedshooters.ca Alberta South Region Pony Club............................................................. www.canadianponyclub.org Alberta Trail Riding Association........................................................................................ www.atra.ca Alberta Walking Horse Association................................................................................www.awha.ca Alix Agricultural Society..............................................................................alixagsociety@outlook.com American Saddlebred Horse Association of Alberta........................... www.saddlebredsofalberta.com Banff Light Horse Association................................................................................ruthann7@telus.net Bear Valley Rescue Society............................................................................... www.bearvalleyab.org Beaverlodge Pony Club.................................................................. beaverlodgeponyclub@gmail.com Bezanson Agricultural Society.............................................................................discoverbezanson.ca Black Diamond Polo Club............................................................................... blackdiamondpolo.com Border Cowboys Mounted Shooters Association..................... bordercowboysmountedshooters.com Bow Valley Riding Association.............................................................................bvra.wordpress.com Calgary Arabian Horse Association................................................... www.calgaryarabian.weebly.com Calgary Area Alberta Dressage Association............................................................. www.ca-ada.com Calgary Regional Appaloosa Club (1997).................................www.calgaryappaloosa.wildapricot.org Calgary Regional Trail Riders..........................................................www.calgaryregionaltrailriders.com Calgary Western Riders....................................................................calgarywesternriders@gmail.com Canadian Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association.......................www.canadianmountedshooters.ca Canadian Horse Breeders Association Rocky Mountain District......www.canadianhorsebreeders.com Canadian Morgan Horse Association................................................................ www.morganhorse.ca Canadian Registry of the Tennessee Walking Horse...................................................... www.crtwh.ca Canadian Sport Horse Association - AB Chapter...................................................... www.c-s-h-a.org Cassils Trail Blazers.................................................................................................. cweestra@live.ca Central Alberta Adult Riding Club .............................................................panddjensen@hotmail.com Central Century Team Ropers Association...................................www.centurycentralteamroping.com Central Peace Horse Association.................................................................................... cpha@live.ca Chinook Chapter (ACDA)......................................................................... www.albertadriving-acda.ca Chinook Country/Alberta Dressage Association........................................ douglorraine87@gmail.com Cleardale Riders Club ........................................................................ sandyrichardson@abnorth.com Clearwater Horse Club................................ www.facebook.com/cwhcpublic/?rf=155981401093436 Cooking Lake Saddle Club.................................................................www.cookinglakesaddleclub.ca Cottonwood Corrals Association (Jasper)............................cottonwoodcorralassociation@gmail.com Coulee Winds Saddle Club................................................................................ kheapy@outlook.com Davisburg Pony Club ................................................................................... donnellydigs@gmail.com Delacour Agricultural Society & Community Club.................................................www.delacourhall.ca Delacour Pony Club . .............................................................................cherianderson99@gmail.com DeWinton Pony Club.................................................................................. melouderkirk@yahoo.com Didsbury Agricultural Society....................................................................www.didsburyagsociety.org Dunmore Equestrian Society................................................................www.dunmoreequestrian.com Edmonton Area /Alberta Dressage Association.............................................................www.eaada.ca Endurance Riders of Alberta........................................................ www.enduranceridersofalberta.com Extreme Cowboy Alberta Association..................................................www.extremecowboyracing.ca Fairview Sport Horse Society............................................www.fairviewsporthorsesociety.weebly.com Family Fun Rodeo Series............www.facebook.com/Family-Fun-Rodeo-Series-1047456848661422 Foothills Therapeutic Riding Association........................................www.foothillstherapeuticriding.com Four: Thirteen Therapeutic Riding Association.................................... www.413therapeuticriding.com Friends of the Eastern Slopes Association................................................................... www.foesa.org Fun Country Riding Club of Strathmore.....................................................www.funcountryriders.com H.E.D.J.E. Society.............................................................................................lundkrista@gmail.com Hastings Lake Pleasure Horse Association................ www.hastingslakepleasurehorseassociation.org High Country Carriage Driving Club............................................. www.highcountrycarriagedriving.org High Country Pony Club.......................................................................... www.canadianponyclub.org High Kick Vaulters.................................................................................... highkickvaulters@gmail.com Highridge Thundering Hooves Gymkhana Club ..........................................hthgymkhana@gmail.com Hoofbeats For Hope Equine Team Society........... www.facebook.com/Hoofbeats-for-Hope-Equine-Team-320728417234 Irricana Riding & Roping Club..........................................www.facebook.com/irricanaridingropingclub Journeys Therapeutic Riding Society ............................................................................... www.jtrs.ca Jump Alberta Society.......................................................................................www.jumpalberta.com Lacombe Light Horse Association........................................lacombelighthorseassociation.webs.com Legerete Canada Alberta Chapter................................................................. www.legeretecanada.ca Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association....................................................................... www.ltra.ca Little Bits Therapeutic Riding Association....................................................................www.littlebits.ca Meadow Creek Vaulting Club.........................................................................................www.mcvc.ca Millarville Musical Ride.................................................................................millarville musicalride.com Miniatures in Motion Horse Club............................................................... www.miniaturesinmotion.ca Mount View Special Riding Association.....................................................www.mountviewriding.com Northern Trails Riding Club .............................................................www.northerntrailsridingclub.com Opening Gaits Therapeutic Riding Society of Calgary ....................................... www.openinggaits.ca Over the Hill Trail Riders ........................................................................................fjhorses@syban.net Peace Area Riding For The Disabled Society................................................................ www.pards.ca Peace Draft Horse Club...................................................................... www.peacedrafthorseclub.com Peace Region Alberta Dressage Association............www.albertadressage.com/peaceregion/peace-region-about.html Performance Standardbreds Association....................................................www.p-standardbreds.org Polocrosse Calgary................................................................................. www.polocrossecalgary.com Ponoka Riding & Roping Association.............www.facebook.com/groups/341339667487/?ref=direct Prentice Creek Equestrian Center....................................................................... ridepcec@gmail.com Quarter Horse Association of Alberta.......................................................................... www.qhaa.com Ranahan Polocrosse Club...................................................sites.google.com/site/ranahanpolocrosse Ridgeview Riding Club........................................................................ ridgeviewridingclub@gmail.com Rimbey Sleigh, Wagon & Saddle Club.......................................................rimbeyswsclub@gmail.com Rocky Mountain Gymkhana Club................................................. www.rockymountaingymkhana.com Rundle Riders Therapeutic Riding Association..................................................www.rundleriders.com Saddle Seat Canada...............................................................................www.saddleseatcanada.com Shortgrass Riding Club...........................................................................www.shortgrassridingclub.ca Society of Tilt and Lance Cavalry....................................................................................www.joust.ca South Country Team Penning Association.................................................................... www.sctpa.ca South Peace Horse Show Association...............................................www.southpeacehorseclub.com

Southern Alberta Trail Riders Association.....................................................................www.satra.ca Southern Century Team Roping Association ..............................www.southcenturyteamroping.com Springbank Equestrian Society........ springbankpark.com/index.php/springbank-equestrian-society Springbank Pony Club..............................................................................................c3inc@shaw.ca Spruce View Gymkhana Club...............................................................dwedmondson4@gmail.com Standard Rodeo Society.......................................................................zakariasenrobyn@gmail.com Steele’s Scouts Commemorative Troop Association........................................www.steelescouts.ca Stone Bridge Carriage Driving Club..............................................stonebridgecarriagedrivingclub.ca Strathcona All-Breed Horse Association........................................................ www.sahaalberta.com Tennessee Walking Horse Association Of Western Canada................................. www.twhawc.com The Calgary Hunt Club...............................................................................www.calgaryhuntclub.ca The Calgary Polo Club.............................................................................www.calgarypoloclub.com The Greater Bragg Creek Trails Association.............................................. www.braggcreektrails.org Trail Riding Alberta Conference............................................................................. www.trailriding.ca Traildusters Horse Club of Smith . ............................................................................. 780-829-3628 Tri-Country Riding Club......................................................................................schenk88@telus.net True Grit Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association...................... www.truegritmountedshooters.com Uplift Therapeutic Riding Association.............................. www.facebook.com/uplifttherapeuticriding Valleyview & Districts Agricultural Society...............................................www.valleyviewagsociety.ca Vegreville Agricultural Society.....................................................................................www.vegag.ca Welsh Show Association.......................................................... piperp13.wixsite.com/wildroseshow Western Canadian Wagon Train.................................................................... gsissons@hotmail.com Western Dressage Association of Southern Alberta.................................................. www.wdasa.ca Wild Rose Draft Horse Association.........................................................................www.wrdha.com Wildrose Mounted Shooters.................................................... www.wildrosemountedshooters.com Will For Riding Foundation..............................................................www.willforridingfoundation.com Xtreme Wild Rose Club............................................................................ xtremewildrose.webs.com

BUSINESS MEMBERS Alberta Association of Complementary Equine Therapy...................................www.aacet.ca Banff Trail Riders................................................................................... www.horseback.com Boehringer Ingelheim Canada Ltd....................................... www.boehringer-ingelheim.ca/en Calgary Stampede......................................................................www.calgarystampede.com CapriCMW Insurance ........................................................................www.capri.ca/horse Carpino Production & Design.........................................................palmocarpino@gmail.com Cartier Farms Equine Assisted Learning................................................ www.cartierfarms.ca Cavallo Pulse Therapy............................................................... www.cavallopulsetherapy.ca Colchester Farm...........................................................................www.colchesterfarms.com Coulee Equine.....................................................................................www.couleeequine.ca Creekside Equestrian Centre........................................................................... www.mcvc.ca Equestrian Factory Outlet - Red Deer................................ www.equestrianfactoryoutlet.com Equi-Health Canada Inc.......................................................www.equihealthcanada.com Equine Connection Inc............................................................ www.equineconnection.ca Equus Physio................................................................................ www.equusphysio.com Evergreen Park (Grande Prairie Agricultural & Exhibition Society)....... www.evergreenpark.ca Foothills Horse Transport.................................................... www.foothillshorsetransport.com Glen Valley Farm.................................................................................www.glenvalleyfarm.ca Greenhawk Cochrane.......................................................................... www.greenhawk.com Guiding Spirit Learning Solutions.....................................www.guidingspiritlearning.solutions High Country Equestrian Center.............................................. www.hcequestriancenter.com Higher Trails Equine Ltd..................................................................... www.highertrails.ca Hi-Hog Farm & Ranch Equipment Ltd......................................................... www.hi-hog.com Horizon Equestrian Centre.........................................................www.horizonequestrian.com Horse In Hand Ranch Ltd..........................................................www.horseinhandranch.com Just Passing Horse Transport & Bereavement Services................www.justpassinghorses.ca Kaspian Equestrian Training Centre.......................................... www.kaspianequestrian.com Katy Whitt Photography..................................................................... www.katywhitt.com Lawton & Co, LLP................................................................................... jwlawton@telus.net Mane Equestrian Athletics.......................www.facebook.com/maneequestrianathletics Martin Deerline...........................................................................www.martindeerline.com McNiven Ranch Supply (Hansbo Sport)......................................... www.hansbosportna.com Millennium Equestrian Ltd.....................................................www.millenniumequestrian.com Moose Hill Ranch.......................................................................... www.moosehillranch.com New View Stables......................................................................... www.newviewstables.com Olds College . ........................................................................................ www.oldscollege.ca Persons Equine and Industrial Dust Control.......................................... www.personscs.com PFERA Inc..................................................................................................... www.pfera.ca Purina Canada......................................................................................... www.equipurina.ca Rocking Star Ranch Equine......................................................www.rockingstarranch.ca Rock’N Horse Ranch Arena & Stables........................................... www.rocknhorseranch.ca Saddle Up Magazine................................................................................. www.saddleup.ca Saltaire Equestrian Haus............................................................ www.saltaireequestrian.com Silverado Horse Centre..........................................................www.silveradohorsecenter.com Spirit Winds Ranch.............................................................www.spiritwindshorsecentre.com Spring Lake Equestrian Camp..............................................www.springlakecampground.ca Stampede Saddle Solutions inc.............................www.stampedesaddlesolutions.com Strathcona Ventures.......................................................... www.strathconaventures.com Syner G Apparel & Solutions....................................................... www.synergyapparel.ca TD Equine Veterinary Group................................................................ www.tdequinevet.com The Dressage Boutique & Equestrian Wear................................www.dressageboutique.com The Horse Store............................................................. www.facebook.com/theHorseStore The Mane Event Equine Education & Trade Show.........................www.maneeventexpo.com The School of Equine Massage and Rehabilitation Therapies................ www.equinerehab.ca The Tack Collector Ltd..................................................................... www.thetackcollector.ca The Visions West Studio.......................................................................... smithpr1@telus.net Ulterra Equestrian Ltd................................................................www.ulterraranches.com Vitality Equine...............................................................................www.vitalityequine.com Western Horse Review...........................................................www.westernhorsereview.com Westwood Warmbloods.................................................... www.westwoodwarmbloods.com Wheatland Equestrian.............................................................. www.wheatlandequestrian.ca Whitemud Equine Learning Centre Association................................................www.welca.ca Willow Grove Stables Inc...................................................www.willowgrovestables.com Winning Strides.............................................................................. www.winningstrides.com

BE SURE TO SUPPORT OUR BUSINESS MEMBERS! THOSE LISTED IN BLUE PROVIDE DISCOUNTS TO AEF MEMBERS. VISIT OUR LIST OF EQUINE FACILITIES ON OUR WEBSITE!

29

CLOSING THE YEAR

Celebrating the Big 4-0!

Photo submissions from members to help us celebrate this milestone anniversary.

Sleigh Bells Ring – Christmas 2016 in Onoway, Ab. Picture by Lucille Landals

Headed back out of the Willmore wilderness and got caught in an early September snowfall.

Submitted by Jo Anne Fleming

Submitted by Lisa Janssen

Whiddy – my hero. Submitted by Kim Berti

30

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

“Team Radar” zipping across the trails. Driving in the winter does not slow us down, it adds to our adventures! Photo credit to Kevin Flynn. Submitted Bridget Simon

MAY YOUR NEIGHS BE MERRY & BRIGHT!

The AEF is built on the strong foundation of our members and volunteers. We are extremely proud of our equine community and thank you for your continued support. We look forward to serving you in 2019.

ALBERTA BITS I WINTER 2018

31

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY W E

S H A R E

Y O U R

P A S S I O N