Revista el Caballo Español 2007 n.181 (English)

El Caballo Español

www.ancce.es

Año XXIX Nº 181 Septiembre - Octubre 2007

Español / English

Diego Marín Fidalgo

Capitán González

Kristina Harrison

”A veces el juez cobra un protagonismo que no deberia tener, el único protagonista en un concurso debe ser el caballo español”

“Si un caballo va bien con una yegua, hay que repetir…. Ya esta todo inventado”

“Creo que los PRE tienen un temperamento fantástico y les hacen el caballo ideal tanto para el jinete amateur como el profesional”

El Caballo Español

nº 181

Septiembre - Octubre 2007

Asociación Nacional de Criadores de Caballos de Pura Raza Española

El Caballo Español Año XXIX Nº 181 Septiembre - Octubre 2007

Español / English

Diego Marín Fidalgo

Capitán González

Kristina Harrison

”A veces el juez cobra un protagonismo que no deberia tener, el único protagonista en un concurso debe ser el caballo español”

“Si un caballo va bien con una yegua, hay que repetir…. Ya esta todo inventado”

“Creo que los PRE tienen un temperamento fantástico y les hacen el caballo ideal tanto para el jinete amateur como el profesional”

nº 181

Septiembre - Octubre 2007

Asociación Nacional de Criadores de Caballos de Pura Raza Española

www.ancce.es

El Caballo Español

Asociación Nacional de Criadores de Caballos de Pura Raza Española

www.ancce.es

El Caballo Español Año XXIX Nº 181 Septiembre - Octubre 2007

Español / English

Diego Marín Fidalgo

Capitán González

Kristina Harrison

”A veces el juez cobra un protagonismo que no deberia tener, el único protagonista en un concurso debe ser el caballo español”

“Si un caballo va bien con una yegua, hay que repetir…. Ya esta todo inventado”

“Creo que los PRE tienen un temperamento fantástico y les hacen el caballo ideal tanto para el jinete amateur como el profesional”

Cover Page: Kristina Harrison with Rociero

El Caballo Español

nº 181

Septiembre - Octubre 2007

Asociación Nacional de Criadores de Caballos de Pura Raza Española

SUMMARY

Asociación Nacional de Criadores de Caballos de Pura Raza Española

Photo by: Barbara Bella

EL CABALLO ESPAÑOL The Purebred Spanish Horse magazine since 1978 Edited by: Asociación Nacional de Criadores de Caballos de Pura Raza Española (ANCCE) Cortijo de Cuarto (Cortijo Viejo) Bellavista, 41014 Sevilla, Spain (España) Telephone: +34 954 68 92 60, Fax: +34 954 69 03 27 Web: http://www.ancce.com E-mail: revista@ancce.com Editor-in-Chief: José Palma Moreno Editorial Committee: ANCCE Communication Taskforce Editor: José A. Fdez Lineros lineros.doma@hotmail.com revista@ancce.com Technical Coordinator: Inmaculada Rodríguez Prensa@ancce.com Columnist: Jaime Molina, Manuel González and Jacobo Rojo Collaborators: Miguel Valdés, Luis Rivero, Juan Carlos Altamirano, Esther Gutérrez, Rafael Ortiz y Alfonso Cuesta Secretaries: Ana Luque Design and Set up: Editorial Maritania www.maratania.es maratania@maratania.es Translations: Yreba Arobed, S.L. traducciones@yrevaarobed.com Legal Registration Number: SE-186-1980 Publicity: Inmaculada Rodríguez 954689260 - prensa@ancce.com Asociación Nacional de Criadores de Caballos de Pura Raza Española (ANCCE) Cortijo de Cuarto (Cortijo Viejo) Bellavista, 41014 Sevilla, Spain Telephone: +34 954 68 92 60, Fax: +34 954 69 03 27 www.ancce.com revista@ancce.com Photo mechanics and Printing: J. de Haro Artes Gráficas, S.L. Telf.: +34 954 180 010, Fax: +34 954 183 444 C/ Brújula, 43, P.I.S.A. 41927 Mairena del Aljarafe, Sevilla, Spain www.jdeharo.com jdeharo@jdeharo.com © All rights reserved. No part of this magazine, including its contents, texts, graphics and photographs, whether in English or Spanish, may be reproduced by any means without specific written permission from the publishers. El Caballo Español is not responsible for the opinions express by its collaborators in the articles published.

138

ANCCE

139 141 146 148

EDITORIAL

154

INTERVIEW

157 162 165 168 170 172 185 194 197 198 202 111 112 114 116 134 135

www.ancce.es

It Is Time to Look Back

NEWS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR THE FORUM

Rafael Ortiz Alcalá Zamora Manuel Carvajal Román Miguel de Rojas Maestre Alicia Picatoste Laso

Diego Marin Fidalgo, President of the Association of Colleges of Purebred Spanish Horse Judges José A. Fdez. Lineros

ASK TO THE EXPERT

Ángel de Amores Moreno José A. Fdez. Lineros Ignacio Molina Fdez. de los Ríos

PROFILES

El Capi, Captain Manuel González Pérez, Specialist in Breeding Horses Maria Luisa Sala Shelly

DAILY VETERINARY PRACTICE Equine External Parasites Esther Gutiérrez Garde

HIGH SCHOOL Spanish Walk II Alfonso Cuesta

DRIVING

Driving throughout the Centuries Luis Rivero Merry

ANCCE REPORTS INTERNATIONAL PRE HISTORY

Jousts and Tournaments Juan Carlos Altamirano

ASSOCIATIONS

FROM NEWSPAPER ARCHIVES SURVEY THE MALL ADVERTISING PRICES MEMBER REGISTRATION FORMS LIST OF BREEDERS WHO ARE MEMBERS OF ANCCE LIST OF ANCCE ASSOCIATED ORGANIZATIONS LIST OF ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

EDITORIAL

Looking forward without overlooking the past It has been just over a year since I took office as the President of ANCCE, appointed the Board of Directors, and launched the task forces. It is time to look back and take a look at what has been done during that time. One of our main concerns was the correct operation of the Stud Book, for which no resources were spared to update and refine the database. We trust that by the very end of July, 100% of the Initial Stud Farm Reports will be in, and by the time you receive this issue, all the data from FESCCR will have been received. As data has been processed, we have discovered, among other things, that, in 50% of cases, the person owning the horse and the name that appeared in the database failed to coincide and this, in addition to causing delays, has increased the complexity of the process. In spite of this, and if the process continues normally, we will probable have an updated database by the first quarter of next year. Despite this complexity, we continue to advance; evaluations and the procedure to register outside of Spain have begun, including a TQB in Costa Rica and another at the beginning of September in the United States. Not only are we working on the pure mechanical aspect of the Stud Book, but also everything that goes along with it; the first part of this is to finish the Stud Book Rules and Regulations so that everyone has a clear picture of the rights and obligations.

The Stud Book has not been the only undertaking; at the end of July, a draft copy of the Rules and Regulations for Conformational Competitions was sent to all members and the various PRE breeder associations. We are awaiting your suggestions to improve and finish it by November so that it can be applied by next year. We have made great efforts in the area of communications. This has been possible through e-mail, which is more direct and also facilitates and cheapens costs. Therefore, I would encourage you to provide us with your e-mail address. ANCCE is working on making email addresses available for those who do not have one. On the other hand, we have been congratulated in the magazine “El Caballo Español” for the changes introduced; these changes have improved both the content and presentation considerably. Changes on the website are also appearing; for now, it is just an outline of what we want to achieve. The SICAB website will also undergo important changes. We are designing a long, medium and short-term Promotional Plan so that Purebred Spanish Horses become, once and for all, an international breed. The plan is expected to be finished by the first quarter of the upcoming year. We have continued with negotiations to acquire land that will allow us to have a modern office where the more than forty ANCCE employees can work directly on the Association and Stud Book tasks. At the same

www.ancce.es

time, the office organizational chart is being restructured to become the springboard for later projects which will consecrate ANCCE as an Association that provides its members with a number of services to become a real business association for the sector. SICAB has been, is and continues to be the ANCCE and PRE breed flagship, but we must not be satisfied with what we have; there is space for a second trade fair, this time located in the center of Spain, under the name MADRID CABALGA. The date for this would be in May. We have not overlooked the Auction, Young Horse Circuits, TQBs or ANCCE Cups, for which changes have been introduced in the rules and regulations or in the inclusion of an open test to facilitate the participation of amateur riders and horse of any age. We have a new Royal Decree—622/2007—which is different in essence from the one published in 2002. The actual content of this Decree has yet to be detailed with the corresponding ministerial orders. We are working in this area, for which we carried out the survey that was published. We have expanded contacts with other national breeder associations and are sure that, although we do not agree on everything, from these contacts, ties will be made that will bring the sector together in the future. Work is underway with the international associations, with several meetings to explain the handling of the Stud Book outside Spain. This translates into a greater expansion of the Purebred Spanish Horse in other countries, for which we must have an agile, trustworthy and responsible system available for the various procedures.

140

ANCCE

These are the major points that have occupied our time. There are other “minor” activities which are equally important and take time. For example, participation in conformational and dressage competitions are extremely useful, as it allows us to maintain contacts within the sector, as is participation in a number of institutional activities, in some cases linked to the sector, while others are linked to the various Public Administrations. As you can see, there are a number of irons in the fire. In spite of it all, there is some criticism that not enough has been done, claiming that it is all an invention, that there is only manipulation. To this, I have to respond with a quote by Voltaire, “The first natural law should be this: pardon your mutual stupidities”, and our stupidities are to continue to work for the PRE horse and the members of ANCCE. As the human beings that we are, we have been right in some matters while in others not. Where we have made mistakes, we are willing to change - but to do so, we need, once again, your help by sending us your complaints. We have designed the necessary tools with which to reach us. We are breeders, and will continue to be breeders, and we want to maintain the formats with which we sought your confidence a year ago.

José Palma Moreno President of ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

NUESTRO INVITADO

The International Carriage Driving Show, a venue to strengthen the sector The International Carriage Driving Show (SIAT 2007), will take place at the Gran Hipódromo de Andalucía (Racetrack) in Dos Hermanas, from the 13th to 16th of September, giving breeders yet another tool by which to display and sell their livestock, within the framework of a venue dedicated purely to Carriage Driving. This discipline has a great future, because it incorporates two major aspects of the sector: traditional carriage driving, in which Spain is the reference within Europe, and competition. As is customary at these venues, there will be stands for a number of equestrianism-related items, breeders, materials and commercial firms; carriage auctions, as well as six technical workshops and five carriage driving competitions. These competitions include three-phase (dressage, cones and marathon), indoor, international - traditional and for fairs; and above all, a new competition, which is still not official.

3 – All judges will be licensed by the RFHE (Royal Equestrian Federation of Spain) or the FAH (Andalusian Equestrian Federation). 4 - The tests to be performed will be Dressage, and Cones mixed with obstacles: 4.1 Dressage 4.1.1 Test nº 1 of the Carriage Driving RFHE, for 4-year-old horses. 4.1.2 Test nº 3 of the Carriage Driving RFHE, for 5-year-old horses. 4.1.3 Test nº 7 of the Carriage Driving RFHE, for 6-year-old horses. 4.2 Cones A cones test will be performed, with 16 to 20 gates, varying in difficulty, according to the age of the horses, including 5- and 6-year-olds, two obstacles close to the arena. 4.3. Results The scores are to be deducted from the dressage score, for which the RFHE Carriage Driving Rules and Regulations will be used. 4.4 Classification. Horses classify depending on the positive scores obtained, according to the following scale,

THE YOUNG HORSE CARRIAGE DRIVING CIRCUIT Until now, the young horse circuit has only included tests for Dressage, Eventing and Show Jumping; it will soon include Endurance (Raid). The Royal Carriage Driving Club, as is their obligation, defends the idea that excellent horses should also be scored if they are ideal for carriage driving in its diverse disciplines. No doubt, this would increase breeder sales expectations, given that this is a magnificent opportunity for stud farms to increase its love of carriage driving, especially in the competitive field. With this in mind, steps are already being taken for the competition to be accepted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA), by way of FEAGA (Spanish Federation of Associations for Select Livestock), but meanwhile it is necessary to make a start on the route, for which the RCEA (Royal Driving Club of Andalusia) proposes three tests, which would be: 1 - For horses of any breed registered in a registration book of Spain, ages 4, 5 and 6, in possession of book, passport and LAC (horse license to compete). 2 - The tests will be performed by horses harnessed singly. The driver and groom must have a federative license.

News September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

141

www.ancce.es

which does not vary for the age category or the breed of the horses. - Young horses classified as ELITE DRIVING HORSES are those that, at the end of the Dressage and Cones tests have obtained 104 points or more (corresponding to an average of 6.5 out of 10 in Dressage and with no penalizations in Cones) - The young horses classified as EXCELLENT DRIVING HORSES are those that, at the end of the Dressage and Cones tests have obtained 96 points (and less than 104) (corresponding to an average of 6 out of 10 in Dressage and with no penalizations in Cones)

Tribute to a veteran breeder Mr. Carlos Montijano y Carbonell ... FECAF, the Maiden Edition Equestrian Fair Photo by: M.Vasco

- The young horses classified as VERY GOOD DRIVING HORSES are those that, at the end of the Dressage and Cones tests have obtained 80 points (and less than 196) (corresponding to an average of 5 out of 10 in Dressage and with no penalizations in Cones) Modes for the evaluation of tests for young horses: The aim of these tests is to verify the aptitude of the young horses for Dressage and Carriage Driving and the quality of their basic work. We think that SIAT would be a good testing ground within a greater framework to evaluate, in addition to being classified as elite, excellent and very good, according to the score, and that gold, silver and bronze medals from SIAT can be awarded. We believe that this First International Show is a magnificent opportunity to advance in the understanding and prominence of an activity that, fortunately, earns more followers every day. An effort from breeders is therefore necessary so that the level of participation is a success, both in number of entries for the tests, and in the quality of each competition. If you are interested, please consult the preliminary program and entry form at www.siat-enganches. com

The Aguilar de la Frontera Town Hall, the local associations, sponsors, stud farms, board members, ANCCE members and FECAF promoters worked together to achieve a single objective, which was to have—in a region full of small PRE farmers and horse enthusiasts—a trade fair. The birth of FECAF The 1st Equestrian Fair of Aguilar de la Frontera took place with a warm welcoming from both the general public as well as from the equine sector since this Cordovan region has a number of small and medium size stud farms. Thanks to this fact, the fair was possible, and we hope that there are many more to come. FECAF was an initiative proposed by Francisco Reina— from Yeguada Veracruz—who mentioned the idea to his veterinary, Nicolás Alberca, also from Aguilar. The latter then, contacted a good friend Joaquín Fernández, with ties in Aguilar. After a meeting in Sevilla where they decided each of their individual functions, the difficult process was launched to achieve the desired goals. FECAF becames a reality At the same time, the required paperwork was taking care of at the Town Hall, and its mayor, Francisco Paniagua, who not only promoted the project for this year, but also from the beginning, supported the idea for years to come. We must also thank ANCCE for the help provided, not only by its president, José Palma, but also by board member from Cordoba, José Leiva, who is providing us with information, trophies and the necessary help. And of course, everything was possible thanks to all those who volunteered, moved solely for the love for horses and their home town. Isidoro Manqrique, in charge of the association “Amigos del Viento” (Friends of the Wind) took care of the infrastructure with the help of the Hermandad de la Veracruz (local Church Brotherhood), who also provided us with their facilities. The program was completed thanks to

142

ANCCE

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Españolwww.ancce.com 142

www.ancce.es

the conference about “Equestrian Culture” by the Flamenco Association “Curro Malena” and finishing with a carriage exhibition. The tribute at FECAF Mr. Carlos Montijano y Carbonell was the promoting spirit behind the idea, because the legacy of this gentleman is his love for horses, his kindness and eternal smile, although in reference to his age that he already has, we would all love to have the hope that he still has and tries to pass on to his grandchildren, the unquestionable heirs of this great devotion.

Yeguada Cubas, Joaquin Olivera and Ararat Martin earned awards at the 13th Edition of the Trofeo Awards Photo by: M.Vasco

The 13th Annual Trofeo Awards were held on June 28, on the terrace of the Ritz Hotel of Madrid. With these awards, Editorial America Iberica pays tribute to all those personalities and institutions who, with their work, promote the development and defence of the sports of fishing, hunting (shooting), golf, equestrianism as well as nautical and winter sports.

Congratulations for these initiatives! From here we support and we hope there will be growth, while ignoring such words as nothing else can be done or that everything has already been done. That is not true, we are here to prove it, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK FECAF!

Ararat Martín

Equus Guadarrama 2007 I Equestrian Trade Show, Guadarrama The first Equestrian Trade Show –known as EQUUS GUADARRAMA 2007—was held on August 10, 11 & 12th at the old Guadarrama soccer field, under the organization of the Guadarrama Town hall, the firm Habril Eventos Ecuestres y Taurinos, S.L.L., the National Purebred Spanish Horse Breeders’ Association of Spain (ANCCE) and the Purebred Spanish Horse Breeders’ Association of Madrid (AGAMA). Guadarrama is located to the north-east of the capital city of Madrid, and is the one area of the province of Madrid with the greatest number of stud farms and equestrian centers. The Trade Fair was open to the general public from 6 pm until 2 in the morning; included in the program was the organization of the Conformational Competition for Purebred Spanish horses, a qualifier for the Spanish National Championships. Collaborators for the event included ANCCE and AGAMA. The judges chosen for this competition were Isaac Rodríguez, Javier García Romero and Antonio Vázquez. All three judges had been judges at the Spanish National Championships held at SICAB 2006. There were a number of Equestrian Exhibitions and Rociero singing/dance groups, as well as stands for commercial enterprises and breeders.

143

The firm Yeguada Cubas was awarded the Trophy for the “Publicity Campaign of the Year.”

Ararat Martin was chosen by the magazine, Trofeo Caballo by the publishers Editorial America Iberica as the winner of the “Equestrian Merit” Trophy, thanks to his trajectory in this sport. Ararat Martin has been Champion of Spain eleven times in Vaulting, and came fourth in the World Equestrian Games in Germany, in the summer of 2006. Joaquín Olivera Peña, from of Coria del Río (Sevilla), was chosen by the magazine, A La Vaquera from Editorial America Iberica, to receive the “Special Mention for Doma Vaquera” due to his successes and his major trajectory in this sport. Olivera has nine times been Champion of Spain in Doma Vaquera, several times Champion of Andalusia and is the winner of countless competitions, having a record that would be very difficult to equal within this discipline. He is the unquestionable figure and an excellent example of this equestrian discipline so loved by its enthusiasts. Photo by: M.Vasco

Chalao from Yeguada Cubas

www.ancce.com / El Caballo Español ANCCE September - October 2007

143

www.ancce.es

Tribute to Alvaro Domecq in Umbrete Photo by: M.Vasco

Fco. Salado. A. Domecq, Fco. Acedo and José Palma with Doma Vaquera lads in Umbrete

emos Photo by :L

During the most recent venue of the Andalusian Doma Vaquera Competitions, held in the town of Umbrete in the province of Sevilla, a heart-warming tribute was given to Mr. Alvaro Domecq Romero, breeder, mounted bullfighter, full member of the PRE Opinion Forum and creator of a number of events and shows, as well as events linked to ANCCE. At the venue, which had an introduction by Doma Vaquera, Judge and Andalusian Equestrian Federation Representative for Doma Vaquera Cristóbal Diaz Angel, diplomas and awards were presented to the young and promising in the world of Doma Vaquera for their work during the Championships held in Umbrete.

During his speech, Alvaro (or Alvarito, as he is known lovingly by many) had kind words for his friends and his Master and beloved father, Alvaro Domecq y Diez who, from childhood, instilled the ways and means in him to always be involved in the world of horses and bullfighting. He narrated his experiences and the mischief he got into while working in the fields, mentioning them one by one, including all those factors that have taught him something throughout his life. This speech was so charming that more one was moved. This event ended with the Doma Vaquera Adult Championship draw and a cocktail, which had been perfectly prepared for such an impressive event, offered by the Salado Family at their own winery. By Manuel Vasco Oliveras

144

ANCCE

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español www.ancce.com 144

www.ancce.es

National Zootechnical Congress Current and future situation of the pure breeds To be held at the Auditorium at the School of Veterinarian Science in Madrid, on October 25 & 26, 2007 PROGRAM

SESSION: NEW TECHNOLOGIES APPLIED TO THE LIVESTOCK SECTOR

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25 09:00 – 09:30: Registration of participants

11:30 – 12:00 : Report: New technologies in the modernization of farms in the management of pure breeds

09:30 – 10:00: Inauguration Ceremony

12:00 – 12:30: Open Forum

10:00 – 11:00: Inaugural Zootechnical framework

Conference:

General

16:00 – 17:00: Round Table: The future of breeding pure breeds

11.00 – 11:30: Break– Coffee SESSION: PURE SITUATION

BREEDS,

14:00 – 16:00: Work Luncheon

CURRENT

AND

FUTURE

11:30 – 12:00: Report: Evolution of animal selection in Spain

17:00 – 18:00: Presentation of conclusions 18:00: Convention Closure

12:00 – 12:30: Report: Conservation of Zoogenetic Resources (Strategies of the National program for the maintenance of biodiversity in domestic animals) 12:30 – 13:00: Report: Assisted reproduction in the genetic improvement programs in Spain 13:00 – 13:30: Report: Integral administration of the animal germ plasma banks 13:30 – 14:00: Open Forum 14:00 – 16:00: Work luncheon 16:00 – 19:00: Open Forum 21:00: Official Congress Dinner FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26 SESSION: PRODUCTION SYSTEM, ANIMAL WELL-BEING AND QUALITY 09:00 – 10:00: Open Forum 10:00 – 10:30: Report: Taking advantage of grasslands as a resource in extensive livestock farming 10:30 – 11:00: Report: Rational livestock production in natural protected (park) areas 11:00 – 11:30: Break – Coffee

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

145

www.ancce.es

Letters to the editor Dear Mr. Editor, Although it is not standard practice for the ANCCE Communication Department to use this forum, we would like to take a moment to respond to the letter from Mr. Raul Gonzalez, which appeared in the past issue, where he discussed the conditions during a PRE conformational competition. First of all, we would like to thank Mr. Gonzalez for participating in this section, which we consider to be very important in the improvement of this and other points affecting the Purebred Spanish Horse. With no further ado, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proceed with the response from ANCCE, and specifically from the Department for Competitions and Contests, we have well-being of horses in mind and logically want each of the events included in the Conformational Calendar qualifying for the Championship Finals at SICAB

to meet all minimal requirements in terms of facilities, both for the horses and general public. Although the large number of competitions is no excuse, nor is the fact that venue dates coincide, it is impossible to be present at each and every competition, and verify that the conditions are ideal for the competition in all cases. As a result of this concern, which we share with you, and to avoid this situation in the future, we can report that in this year, 2007, a report is being made regarding each of the Conformational Competitions indicating the status of the infrastructure, in which the stalls, arenas, stands, showers and all those aspects that refer to the organization of the completion are covered. This translates the interest that ANCCE has in improving competitions, both in terms of the quality of facilities, as

well as all other aspects involved in the organization of a competition, and that affect breeders, judges and the attending public in an effort to guarantee minimal conditions for participation. With this in mind, a chart has been designed to summarize the Competition, which is to be filled out by the LGPRE ANCCE representative in that geographical zone. At the end of the year, when all this information has been collected, a report will be sent to each Organizing Committee detailing the category that the said event will be included in, once the new Rules and Regulations have been approved, should the conditions found during the venue be repeated. Likewise, the organizers will be informed of the improvements needed in their facilities should they want to be included in a higher category. When considering the category of an establishment, the quality of the facilities will be of major importance. Obviously, those competitions in higher categories will be rewarded, as more horses will qualify than those of a lower category. We hope that this new project that has been launched just this year will have positive results in upcoming editions as we share your concerns on this matter. Kind Regards, Competition Department

MagĂ Mateu with Mariscal XLIX

146

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

Politicians and Competitions When will this ever end? This business of politicians or the government commissions who govern the various Town Halls where conformational competitions are held sticking their noses into things is not good. In statistical terms, those competitions that are organized by people who have nothing to do with politics usually work out fine, more or less, or at least decently enough, but those that are organized piggyback between politicians and others (meaning associations) are chaos because both want to preside. This was the case in the competition held recently in Malaga— Equimediterranea—in which nonsense was the buzzword. On the one hand was the Malaga Association, which wanted to organize said competition with goodwill, as they had and have experience, such as at Antequera, Marbella, Dressage, etc, which have worked out more or less well. On the other hand, there was the Convention Center (owned by the Town Hall) that did not want to turn the reins over to anyone, and which, to a

certain extent, seemed correct; however, when there is something which they know nothing about, it is better to leave it in the hands of someone with experience. When a competition begins on the wrong foot, it ends on the wrong foot. Its onset was “shadowy” as, in the arena, the judges could not even see further than their own shadows and, in the most literal sense of the word, their own shadow! They complained to the management and, as nobody even knew who presided, things came and went without any light, or at least without enough light to even see the horses in the arena. Most people know how the pros work in reference to the photographers, who depend on having enough light to take pictures in the arena. The complaints were not addressed, either by the Malaga Breeder Association or the Convention Center. The reception of horses was unpleasant; for some unknown reason, some of the participating breeders decided to abandon the competition due to mistakes in the reception. This is not good for anyone, as it established a precedent

that is far from beneficial for future competitions. Gentleman, that is not the way to launch a Competition that began with very good ideas; nor did it even look like SICAB as, to top it all off, there weren’t any posters announcing the event either in the surrounding area or in the city. That is why the stands were empty and the two breeder stands, Yeguada Nadales (in the line of duty) and Francisco Santiago (to help out), were even emptier. To top things off, the Auction had to be suspended due to a lack of staff (What a pity!). I have no idea who is responsible for all this, but if ANCCE has anything to do with it, they must intervene; if it is not ANCCE, then whoever is responsible must take action before this becomes a bad circus. Conformational and dressage competitions - the more the better, but well done - where horses show their wonders, are a place where enthusiast and breeders are seen with the guarantee that it will be a success. Rafael González Peña

Dialogue brings us closer to one another and enriches us. Experiences, stories, consultations, and opinions from all who support the Purebred Spanish Horse are good for us and are interesting to everyone. The magazine “El Caballo Español” trusts that this section, “Letters to the Editor”, will be an interesting and useful means of communication with its readers. The letters to this section must be signed, with name, surname(s), ID and telephone number, and must not exceed 350 words. Send your letters for publication to: • Postal address: Revista “El Caballo Español”, ANCCE-Cortijo de Cuarto (Viejo), Bellavista 41014 – Sevilla, Spain (España) • Or by e- mail to: revista@ancce.com

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

147

THE FORUM

www.ancce.es

The Forum

Rafael Ortiz AlcalĂĄ Zamora

FUNCTIONALITY Beauty is considered with regards to the concept of utility. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not based on a change in the aesthetic taste of successive generations, but because to the extent that horses have been used differently, their conformation and temperament have been changed. The best horse has been considered beautiful, in other words, that horse whose useful aptitudes respond best to the needs of the eraâ&#x20AC;? A horse is beautiful to the extent that it is useful, and it will be more useful the more it performs the function to which is it destined. Essentially, a PRE horse is a saddle and carriage horse; its conformation and functionality must focus on developing these tasks in the most effective manner.

Today,

t h e functionality of a PRE is of major importance in the Purebred Spanish Horse breeding world. The evaluation of its natural paces (walk, trot and canter) when presented in hand, and the functionality tests, represent a high percentage of the final score. Better than any of our expectations, as if during the presentation in hand, the score for movement represents 20%, or more if canter is also scored, as is the case for horse over the age of three. Thus, the judge will have to give a higher score to a body region (for example, shoulders with greater movement) that is well used, and is therefore, beautiful; more than to the same part of the body that is not used adequately, as it should be. If the horse is also evaluated under saddle while executing a functionality text, the movement of the horse is scored again. Of the full score for a stallion, 25% is earned during the ridden test while the other 75% is reserved for the presentation test in hand, where movements are scored. Today, the functionality tests for 4-year old stallions (Section 8), 5-6-year old stallions (Section 10) and for stallions aged 6 and older (Section 12) are all the same, all horses performing the same route or reprise. It is the judge with his patience who scores each of the groups of horses, taking into consideration that a younger horse does not execute the test in the same way as an

148

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

adult of six or older. Concepts such as not being in the hand, lack of balance, and lack of submission are all penalized in an adult horse. In recent years, the judging of functionality tests has suffered variations; the most important of these has been not awarding a score for each of the natural paces— therefore three scores, to scoring each of the 15 figures into which the route or test is divided. The way the test is scored has changed, not the test itself. Thus, I fear that this new way of scoring is more detrimental to the judging of the functionality of a horse than was the former three scores. Remember that it is the functionality of the horse that is being judged; we must not turn the functionality test into a dressage test and judge it as if it were part of this discipline. The way that a horse shows its natural paces is always more important than the way he executes each of the figures making up the test. The judge scores the movement of the horse, not the rider, and also not how the rider gets his/her horse to perform a 20-meter circle at letter B and E, for example. If we go deeper into the world of Dressage, we can observe how this discipline, at international level, has reduced the number of scores when judging young horses, to score each of the following concepts:  Torte: Rhythm, agility, elasticity, impulsion, flexible back, aptitude to flex joints of the hindquarters. For older horses (6-year olds) the concept of aptitude to move forwards and aptitude for collection is introduced.  Walk: Rhythm, relaxation, activity, length of stride.  Canter: Rhythm, agility, elasticity, natural balance, upward tendency (elevation at the withers), and aptitude to flex joints in the hindquarters. In older horses, the concept of aptitude for collection has been introduced.  Submission: Contact, straightness, obedience, response to the aids of the rider, including changes of pace, shoulder-in and half pass for six-year-olds.

Yeguada Hermanos Benítez Moreno

 General impression: Potential of a young horse for dressage, training standards according to the “training scale” in keeping with the horse’s age. For the FEI (International Equestrian Federation), the idea is to find horses with naturally elastic paces, trained correctly for their age, and able to reach a high level of dressage. The FEI believes that this way of judging is better, impartial and fair. We, instead of keeping a similar system, which is what we had, have taken on a system which was rejected in the past by the hierarchy of the Dressage world, and we score using a large number of scores, scoring each of the figures. Whatever the case may be, there is no doubt that the functionality tests must be judged—due to their importance within conformational contests—by people who are as well-qualified as possible, and if they have knowledge in other fields (biomechanics, anatomy, physiology, dressage, etc.) all the better. Then the judges would be true equine specialists. We must not be obsessed with totally moving away from the functional concept of dressage, as the terminology used to judge the functionality test stems from dressage and is used in this field.

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

149

www.ancce.es

The Forum

Manuel Carvajal Román

THE TRAINING OF THE RIDER Theory and Study of Equitation The lack of basics is, in fact, the cause why some learn badly, as they are not prepared to distinguish defects from perfection, having imitation as their only resource. Thus, no more than a false working method is acquired, which unfortunately, is more easily achieved than good and methodical training.

Theory is knowledge, practice is skilfulness. But knowledge must precede action. ALOIS PODHAJSKY (Former director of the Spanish Riding School of Vienna)

Studying and meditating, on what the old masters have written is where the good horseman prepares the progression of the lesson that he will give his students (horses or riders), deciding the line to follow in order to conquer the difficulties that have arisen. NUNO OLIVEIRA

FRANÇOIS ROBINCHÓ de la GUÉRINIÈRE (1787)

ased on these three points made by these masters, I would like to give theory the place it should occupy in the rider’s training. Unfortunately, most young riders, and adults as well, fail to sufficiently study equitation. Most usually read a few books, but that is not enough; you have to study. You also need to know your level and what books you should read.

they continue to say: “if I had known what I now know, I would not have made so many mistakes.”

It is a shame that these days there are still horsemen who insist to their students that they cannot learn how to ride with books. Of course, you learn to ride by riding. But you must ride with order, with principles, with a course to follow. In other words, with a method, and this, is learned by studying.

In some cases, it is just the opposite: when you know the theory and want to carry it out, you get nowhere in an effort to avoid mistakes. This is not the way either: going more slowly does not always lead to greater progress. You must try to advance daily, but knowing the principles and the aims of the training; and bearing in mind that when your are training, there will always be more to learn. You must go on to the next level, even though there may be an exercise from the previous level that needs perfection. All this must take into consideration your own physical, mental, material and economic possibilities. Even if you have everything, you still don’t know the road, or where you are going, or when you will arrive, so, to avoid getting lost, you must count on a road map or to someone who has previously taken that pathway—the masters.

I have heard very good riders with a great deal of experience, comment in shame what they demanded of their horses when they first started, due to not knowing what they know today. What happened? Well, they learned by trail and error, as if hammering away at cold iron due to lacking the knowledge of a master. There are still some who brag about not ever having had a master. In some cases they have sometimes achieved good results thanks to their great love, hopes and to ignorance which is daring; in some cases, they achieve their objective without really knowing why and many others fail--once again, without ever knowing why. And

150

ANCCE

What they want to say with this is that they have been trained as riders only through practice and they spent years to discover methods that were written down, and that other rider-teachers, colleagues and even friends already knew, but by not asking anyone, they continued to error. They even criticized those who studied.

Just as a doctor, who does not know what illness the patient has because he does not yet know the

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

symptoms, he will also fail to know the applicable treatment. Even knowing the symptoms and the illness, if the doctor does not know the treatment at that point in time, he is unable to cure the patient. How can you dominate the theory to the point that you can apply the method and the correct exercise at the right moment? With a teacher-trainer, because he or she must have dominated it and know how to transmit the best system at the Cuartelero appropriate time. At the next to Manolo same time he or she will Carvajal see whether or not the results are favorable with the applied technique, and if not, he or she can change the exercises until the appropriate work is achieved to get the best performance from horse and rider. The teacher not only has more knowledge than the student, but rather, he or she is also in a position that allows him or her to think; when mounted and having problems, you cannot always think well and correctly. This way, you can memorize the theory and the practice at the same time, since the teacher or trainer dictates all his or her knowledge during the lessons. This is how you ought to learn to ride, during the early years, the same as any other profession or career, especially those wanting to become professionals. The ideal would be to have a teacher at your side every time you ride, but this is not something that is within reach of everyone, and even if you have that possibility, you must still try to ensure that your training is individual and not teacherdependent. So, you must study, because the books on equitation are within everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reach. You must study to achieve a good level of training as a rider, and you should read books that are recommended by your teacher, since both the teacher and these recommended books follow the same working method and pursue the same techniques. When you read about equitation, you also read its history, and discover different masters and methods, which you may or may not agree with. You also discover schools that have existed and lasted throughout the centuries in various countries, cultures and times. You come across breeds of horses that helped these masters

define their riding style and that was also imported to other countries where riders travelled to learn. There were horsemen who were known as great masters, who defended their riding style or their method to the point of it became a question of honor. They also defended the breed of horse they rode, because in those days, there were not so many saddle breeds as there are today. Also, one breed differed greatly from the others. With these methods, which can be discovered by reading about the history of equitation, you realize that some of these have fallen into disuse, above all if you wants to take part in competitive riding. You will also discover antique methods that coincide with the principles of classical equitation and with the regulations of the International Equestrian Federation. If you want to compete, it is also necessary to study. You must be grounded in the Dressage regulations and the methods that coincide with these regulations. Competitions where riding is regulated are where the results of the work carried out by the rider and their trainer, and the training of both, can be appreciated, without overlooking the quality of the horse. Another way of acquiring information, apart from those mentioned above (the teacher and reading), is by means of videosâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; available to everyone today. Some of these collections are marvelous, true masterpieces, due to the fact that it is the great masters of today who have bothered to make them. In the same way as the masters of yesterday bothered to write books and manuals of equitation. Both the masters of yesterday and those of today work based on the classical principles of training, being faithful to their methods and schools after many years of training and dedication. If it were not the case, they would not have become what they are: Masters of Equitation

September - October 2007 / El Caballo EspaĂąol

151

www.ancce.es

The Forum

Miguel de Rojas Maestre

DRIVING

the previous article, I spoke of the walk as the first and fundamental pace in training for driving. This time I will continue with the steps to follow when you hitch a horse in the carriage for the first time. It is very important that the initial contact with a carriage is not traumatic. It is the first time the horse is asked to pull so try to limit the strangeness of the situation. To achieve this, all prior handling must be carried out following a method.

As I said in the last article, riding the horse for some time is always beneficial and will greatly facilitate things, although you can break the horse directly for the carriage. Whatever the case may be, there are some basic steps to be followed. Once the horse has been trained in the stable and performs the three paces on the lunge, he should be obedient to the voice using short and well differentiated sounds for the trot and canter, and gentle and long sounds

for the downwards transitions and the halt. You start by placing a roller with rings on the back and the sides, breaststrap and crupper on the horse. At first, you should work the horse with a riding bridle (without blinders), passing the long reins through the lateral rings. With the horse at halt, in a place that is familiar to it and a person or another ridden horse in front, you should request it, by voice, to go forward to

A. Carrillo Baeza in Aechen at the WEG

152

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

walk in a straight line. Little by little you should start to gently take up a contact on the reins and then play with the fingers, so that the horse will take hold of the snaffle and look forwards and down for its support. At first, it is not a good idea to stop too often, but when you do, the command should be started before the nanny does it, coordinating the movements so that the nanny does not get further away and stops exactly when the young horse has just done so.

the reins. Once the horse has taken the first step, the assistant will begin to walk in front. The second exercise consists of making the horse turn to the right and left, making large curves, always supporting the horse with the rein of opposition, giving and taking with it so that the back of the horse follows the imaginary line of the curve.

With the horse at halt, you must start to caress it on both sides of the face, neck and little by little all over the body, above all, when the horse remains halted even though the assistant moves to its croup.

To carry out this exercise, the outside rein should lightly touch the buttock of the horse. Little by little, and always in walk, the horse will become accustomed, until you are located in the center of the circle, the outside rein is wrapped around the rear of the horse and the horse is neither upset or nervous.

These first halts must be short. The assistant, having caressed the horse, should once again take his/her place in front, at a prudent distance, and you will once again, with the voice, ask for walk in a straight line, and a light contact will be taken up on

You must give this exercise at walk the necessary time for the horse to go in a straight line and a circle without the aid of the nanny, perform a halt with the action of the reins and the voice, and maintain its immobility in a relaxed manner.

Once this step is consolidated, you can then place the entire harness on the horse, including the bridle. Just as was done in the first steps, the assistant once again takes his/her place in front until the horse is confident with the blinders and carries out the exercises with the same tranquility and precision as with the riding bridle. The next steps are to make the horse work with a sledge, always at walk and then without sledge at trot and canter. In these exercises, the contact with the hand, the halts and the move-offs are the most important points, about which I will comment in more detail in the next article.

Photo by: Dick Careman

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

153

INTERVIEW

www.ancce.es

DIEGO MARIN FIDALGO President of the Association of Colleges of Purebred Spanish Horse Judges

By José A. Fdez. Lineros

To devise a breed pattern is complex, but there is one thing that is important, which I explained at the meeting. Whatever we do, there must always be a series of clear cut norms that hinder us from changing the breed, so that we are always working within the PRE breed

Diego

Marín Fidalgo belongs to a lineage that has always been closely linked to Purebred Spanish Horses. He is a veterinarian, conforma-

154

ANCCE

tional judge and breeder from an emblematic farm within the PRE world which bears the special stamp of his father, José Luís Marín García, one of the ANCCE

founders. Now he is faced with a new Project, probably as complex as breeding good horses—to preside over the Association of Conformational Judges.

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

How and when was the Association founded?

“

As technical experts in the breed, we should be involved in anything that has to do with it”

-The Association was re-founded with two already existing associations, Cria Caballar and ANCCE. The General advised us to merge and found a new association, which we did to create the “Asociacion Colegial de Jueces de Caballos de Pura Raza Española” (Association of Colleges of Purebred Spanish Horse Judges). That was in the first quarter of 2005 and, currently, it is the only registered organization. Who does the Association answer to? Right now, there is a legal loophole, as (equestrian) judges fail to appear in the legislation. It is my intention that both judges and the Association be legalized and appear in a (Royal) Decree. One of the things that we have asked Pepe Palma is for ANCCE to help us achieve this goal. You have already had a meeting with ANCCE. What topics were covered? Essentially, it was a matter of establishing contact and beginning to collaborate as, up until now, there has been practically no relationship of any kind. From here, I would like to express my appreciation to ANCCE, and especially to Pepe Palma, for the cordial welcome received. We have discussed a number of topics that affect the PRE, the situation of the judges, and the new rules and regulations for conformation competitions; we believe that as technical experts in the breed, we should be involved in anything that has to do with the PRE.

“

Sometimes, a judge earns an importance that he/she shouldn’t; at a competition, the focus must be on the Purebred Spanish Horse alonel”

From now on, when it comes to the training new judges, who will be in charge: ANCCE, the Ministry, or your Association? First of all, we will have to see if there is really a need for new judges or not, but what is important, and that is what we discussed with the President of ANCCE, is that we need to help “recycle” the current judges at least once a year, so that they have the training needed for the PRE of this day and age. Do you think that the definition of the breed that appears in the Stud

Book is sufficiently specific, or should it be more detailed to eliminate, among other things, the major differences in the criteria found between judges? To devise a breed pattern is complex, but there is one thing that is important, which I explained at the meeting. Whatever we do, there must always be a series of clear cut norms that hinder us from changing the breed, so that we are always working within the PRE breed. It is true that there are certain body regions that could be defined better, but I don’t think there’s anything wrong with what we currently have, and I believe that the differences in criteria have to be smoothed out with refresher courses. Many breeders think that conformational judges are not prepared to judge functionality tests, and that this is a job for dressage judges. What is your opinion on this matter? I honestly believe that the judges are prepared to judge functionality tests, based on the fact that it is not a dressage test, but a matter of judging the paces found in PRE horses—walk, trot and canter—and I don’t think it is right for dressage judges to judge them. I stated that at the meeting with the ANCCE president; however, I do understand that, if it were necessary because the test demanded it, judges would have to take a refresher course to be able to correctly judge this part of the competition. Do you think that the breed should evolve according to the breeders, who at the end of the day are the ones who spend the money, or should it be that breeders breed according to the criteria of the judges? I think that both parties have to march together; the judge, as an expert in the breed, can give a lot to the breeders who are actually breeding the horses. What happens is that sometimes, a judge takes on an importance that he/she shouldn’t; at a competition, the focus must be on the Purebred Spanish Horse alone. Don’t you think the fact that you are a judge and a breeder, which happens in many cases, influences you

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

155

www.ancce.es

greatly when evaluating a horse? In other words, that any horse that departs from the prototype that the judge-breeder has in his head is at a disadvantage? Yes, it is true that there is a certain degree of subjectivity, but that subjectivity must always be within the limits of the breed pattern. I think that that can even be positive, because we know the breed first hand, and that knowledge can add to our role as judge. There are a number of incompatibilities mentioned in the rules and regulations. Are you considering including any more? Logically, there are incompatibilities, although they are sometimes difficult to prove. I think that you always have to rely on the honesty of the judge and, from there, incompatibilities will appear on their own accord. I have suggested to the President of ANCCE that these incompatibilities be proposed by the Association, with the creation of a code of ethics that any given member will have to accept and follow. This can be accomplished if the Association has been legalized and becomes the only legal representative of the judges and, in this way, the problem would be solved. It would be the Association itself that would exclude those judges who fail to comply with the established code of ethics.

Do you think there is a need to limit the number of horses that a judge can judge in a single day? Yes, definitely so. We are not machines. I don’t know if the new rules and regulations will consider this or not, but it should, just as the TQBs have limited the numbers to thirty (30) horses a day. This will have to be done at competitions, although the fact that there are three judges makes the load lighter. Would you like to add anything else? I think this is a crucial moment in which the judges have to come together and forget past conflicts and start working together in an effort to defend our rights and be represented in PRE forums; as technical experts, we have a lot to offer. Moreover, I believe that cooperation is essential, as well as allying with the Ministry of Agriculture and ANCCE. Diego, thank you for the time you have given us and, from here, we want to wish you the best of luck as you lead the Association. Let’s hope that the collaboration between judges and breeders is positive and beneficial for Purebred Spanish Horses. That is our hope. Thanks to you all.

“

Logically, there are incompatibilities, although they are sometimes difficult to prove. I think that you always have to rely on the honesty of the judge”

I think this is a crucial moment in which the judges have to come together and forget past conflicts - start working together - in an effort to defend our rights and we need to be present in PRE forums, which we have a lot to contribute to as technical experts. Moreover, I believe that cooperation is essential, as well as allying with the Ministry of Agriculture and ANCCE

156

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

ASK THE EXPERT FARRIERY

A little more about laminitis I have had the unfortunate experience that some of the horses that I have had, have suffered from laminitis, some have never recovered, but others, although not in perfect condition have, after some time, been able to continue performing their functions. But what has most surprised me is that both the veterinarians and the farriers, when these have differed, have treated this same disease in different ways, applying different therapies and shoes. I would like to know the correct way to shoe a horse when it is suffering from laminitis and whether a horse that has this problem for some time can be cured. Juan Fco. Martin

Ángel de Amores Moreno Master Farrier

All too much frequently, I am called to try to improve the living conditions of stallions and mares, (a greater number of the latter) which are suffering from this terrible disease. When I arrive, it is, in many cases, much too late— either due to ignorance or poor advice—because the animal has lacked the precise and required care. I believe... that nature has then taken its course. We have to put an end to animals suffering, without no apparent desire to live and neglected in a paddock. When talking about laminitis, I do not want to get into its description and evolution, as these have already been sufficiently covered in books, articles, conferences, meetings and discussions about its causes (Nutrition, obesity, chemical, bacterial or viral toxemia, in mares the retention of the placenta, stress, drugs - principally corticoids, bad shoeing, excessive weight carrying, trauma to the hoof etc.)

Deform hoof with laminitis

I would like to say that the work of CHRISTOPHER C. POLLIT on arterial-venous anastomoses, and that of RUBERTE on the same topic and on the complementary action of the vascular valves, marks a new decisive stage in the study of laminitis. The evident clinical signs such as the digital pulse and the temperature of the foot indicate that the digital circulation performs a decisive function. If you add the limited space between the horny casing and the pedal bone, this does not aid vessel dilation, and by the time the accumulation of fluid is observed, there is already an injury, and the final result is a terrible disease.

View of a hoof with laminities

There are studies that prove the existence of a relationship bet-

ween the incidence of the disease and the season of the year, the spring and summer (in Spain) being the most dangerous seasons. Most of the cases I have treated are related to nutrition, the main causes being: Excessive levels of carbohydrates in the diet, when feeding a diet based on mixes with a high energy and starch content, other related causes include obesity, generally in breeds with a tendency to put on weight (PRE, Lusitanos, Ponies etc.). In an effort to prevent the problem, nutritional specialists recommend that 50% of the diet must be fiber, with forage being the most important part of the diet of any equine. Florencia Arrambilde, a specialist in nutrition from Spillers, recommends that the feed for a horse with laminitis should be 2% of the body weight of the animal, as the daily total and reduce this to 1.5% if the animal needs to lose weight. Four types or phases can be determined within the process of laminitis: developmental, acute, sub-acute, and chronic. The acute phase is extremely painful in my opinion, to shoe a horse in this phase is not, either advisable, or beneficial, since at this time, the rotation or the vertical dislocation (sinking) of the pedal bone is taking place, a very important sign to call the veterinarian and to put the animal in a stable (I recommend that the bed sand, as this gives better results than shavings, as the foot is positioned in an optimum position, the pressure is distributed evenly and the horse quickly learns to use it). Cleanliness is essential, if the distance is great, use a vehicle for transport to decrease further suffering.

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

157

www.ancce.es

The farrier comes into play during the sub-acute phase and plays an important role during the chronic phase; in other words, when the intensity of the pain diminishes and the hooves are stabilized. The veterinarian and the farrier must together evaluate when to act. It is important to have a good quality set of X-rays, because a good technical X-ray is useful in quantifying the rotation and the vertical dislocation (sinking of the pedal bone). These X-rays offer the farrier a great deal of information so that he or she can get an exact alignment with real measurements. The orthopedic treatment in this phase must be designed to interrupt the evolution of the disease and to reduce the possibility of relapses. In order to do this, you must get rid of any excess weightcarrying, removing weight from the injured areas of the hoof, balancing the support areas and moving the weight bearing to the healthy area of the hoof, reinforcing the support of the heels and the frog. Only if the pedal bone has rotated a great deal is it necessary to not expect a complete recovery of the hoof mechanism. Remember that a total cure is only possible if the correct orthopedic and pharmacological treatment is carried out.

First phase of treatment

We are constantly learning more about the functioning of the hoof, without forgetting that each case must be evaluated individually, hoof by hoof. No two cases are the same. Nevertheless, thanks to experience, the cascade of events can be predicted, and you can act quickly to overcome the problem. Today, there are an ample number of products, both metal and acrylic shoes, which facilitate the work. Only a few years ago, it was based only on inventiveness.

Second phase of treatment - inverted shoe

Products such as acrylic shoes, if well applied, provide a good support to the area of blood flow of the hoof, as well as to the frog. Multidirectional horseshoes (Rock and Roll/rollerbar), egg-shaped (iron, aluminum), compensated or not, bar or heart-bar, can be of great help, without forgetting pads, of which there are infinite models that can be applied in each case and that the professional farrier should know and/or have in his or her equipment. In the majority of the cases I treat, I try to study the structure that will serve as a support. I do not look for a specific shoe, but rather results; the use of polyurethanes that catalyze quickly, to modify the surface of the hoof, are of great help.

Back view of shoed horse

Remember that there are no two identical cases and on more than one occasion, it is necessary to use more than one method, since the first one tried does not always work. It is important not to be discouraged and to allow time to see the results. I do not want to finish without saying that a well educated and demanding owner pushes professionals be concerned about their education, and that this training is highly valued because of its expense and the difficulties faced in Spain. If we can achieve good teams of owners, veterinarians, riders, trainers, stable personnel and good farriers, we will enter into a new era of horsemanship

158

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

DRESSAGE

Defects at Walk I would like to know what a good walk is like and what the most important defects are, especially the differences between lateral walk and ambling, because I really don’t have it all that clear, and I see that, at many contests, the judges score extremely high on walks that, to me, seem really bad, or just the opposite, they score poorly on walks that I think are good. Moreover, for most people, it seems that the only important thing is that the horse steps on tracks. I don’t think this is all that easy and I would like for you to clarify it. Daniela Karnine

José A. Fdez. Lineros Rider, Trainer and Dressage Judge

¿?

Walk is the hardest gait to judge and to work with a horse. The lack of suspension (i.e., the fact that the horse is not in the air for an instant) makes it more complicated for rider intervention, which generally causes tension, thus leading to a decrease in the attitude or rhythm. For judges, it is also extremely complex to score the quality of this gait and you must be a true expert to not make the mistake (which is quite common, needless to say) of evaluating only the physical space that the horse covers with each stride (whether or not the hoof passes over its track) and, on the other front hoof, this is not even an important aspect to take into consideration. It is not unusual to see, even at major international competitions, horses that, when it comes to collected walk, tend to contract, lateralize or even amble, thus ruining an “apparently” simple and natural exercise. This same contraction appears in the extended walk, when a horse does not take the reins and gives the impression that he fails to advance; however, when the test ends, and the horse leaves the arena with loose reins, you see, interestingly enough, how this same horse that had problems throughout the execution of the test now has an extraordinarily relaxed, ample, active and perfect rhythm in his walk. The tension has simply disappeared. It is not uncommon to see how prestigious and renown judges—if that were possible—allow themselves to be impressed by horses that greatly exceed the track of the anterior hoof, and subsequently give a high score, without taking into consideration

other aspects or defects that really define the quality of the gait/walk. Let’s define walk and what makes it correct: • It is a gait in which the track of the horse has a 4-beat, well-defined, and constant rhythm. Its quality is described with the following adjectives: • Rhythmic (the four beats must be clear and as equal as possible) • Regular (all strides are the same) • Supple (without tension or contractions) • Determined and frank (with no doubts) • Ample (ampleness is never an absolute; it must always relate to the nature of the horse itself) • Active (energetic) A book could be written trying to clarify all these qualities and their adverse defects, but that will come later. For now, let’s focus on the case at hand. When horses used to walk city streets and you could hear their hooves as they hit the cobblestones, the enthusiasts of days gone by knew whether a horse was walking correctly without even seeing it, thanks to the sound of the shoes against the street...ta...ca... ta...ca...ta...ca...ta...ca (hind hoof... front hoof...hind hoof...front hoof). In effect, that is it; rhythm is the fist characteristic of walk, as with any other gait. In this case, you should hear all four steps, with intervals between steps the same and as uniform as possible. Rhythm is the most important factor and, therefore, its defects are the most important, so much so that,

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

159

www.ancce.es

when destroyed, the rest of the aspects taken into consideration when evaluating disappear and the score must always be low (less than 5), which is the case in ambling. Let’s now try to define the two fundamental defects of rhythm, following the previous example of the sound of the steps. • Lateralization: When the sound of the hind and front hoof on the same side almost coincide—in other words, there is no similarity with the front hoof of one side and the hind hoof of the other—then this is lateralization and, obviously, there may be various degrees. The closer together the sound is, the worse the defect is. For example: • Correct: ta...ca...ta...ca • Lateralization 1: ta..ca...ta..ca • Lateralization 2: ta.ca......ta.ca • Lateralization 3: taca........taca Lateralization is considered a serious defect, depending on the degree, which will lower the score drastically. However, when scoring lateral walk, a series of factors intervene such as regularity, agility, frankness, activity or width of stride, which can push the score above 5. • Ambling: When the sounds of the hind and front hooves overlap; in other words, the horse hits the ground with a near fore and near hind at the same time and the sequence of the walk is not heard as four steps, but two, which is when we talk about ambling. This could be illustrated as follows: • Correct: ta...ca...ta...ca • Lateralized: ta.ca.....ta.ca • Ambling: tac.........tac When ambling, there is no need to talk about defects, but rather of the full destruction of rhythm. No matter what other outstanding qualities there may be, the horse will never achieve a sufficient score and will always be under 5.

Placement of left hind leg

Placement of front left leg

Placement of right hind leg

Placement of right front leg

Front right tripod base Left hind tripod base Left front tripod base Right hind tripod base Right lateral biped base Right diagonal bipod base Left lateral bípode base Left diagonal bipod base

160

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

LEGAL

“Mar” Insurance for the Removal of Dead Animals

Ignacio Molina Fdez. de los Ríos Member of the National Commission for Agricultural Insurance of the Ministry of Agriculture

¿?

According to the legislation of CE Regulation 1774/2002 that came into effect in January 2003, all the dead bodies must be removed from a farm and NOT incinerated on or eliminated, as has been done up to now on the farm property (burials).

Guarantees: The insurance covers all the expenses deriving from the collection, movement and destruction of the remains of the dead animals from the farm. Species insured: According to the Home-Rule Region (in Spain):

I know that there are now new rules and regulations regarding what to do when a horse dies; for example, you cannot bury it on your own property, but I would like to know, what exactly must be done when a horse dies at home. Thank you.

Enrique Sánchez

- You must insure all horses that figure in the agricultural register, in the corresponding annual census (in the case of horses, those older than 36 months)

Period of subscription: From January 15 to December 31. Policy comes into effect: 15 days after taking out and paying for the policy Discounts: ANCCE members 4% discount

Sheep-goats Pigs Fowl-rabbits Equines in Andalusia, Aragon, Asturias, Castilla-La Mancha, Catalonia, Galicia, Madrid, Navarre and Valencia.

Subsidies: 42% discount offered by the Ministry of

- Any breeder who has several species will have to insure them all on the same policy

Costs: cost vary within each Home-Rule Region, al-

Agriculture, plus those of each Home-Rule Region. In the event of a CLAIM: Call 900-900-420, indicating the details of the policy and location of the animal. though they range between € 2-3 per animal per year.

Photo by: Fdez. Lineros

Orgulloso XXII from José María Rojas Palatín

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

161

El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El Cani El

www.ancce.com

ANCCE

162

This is a PRE, the noblest of all horses

www.ancce.es REGISTER

PROFILES

www.ancce.es

El CAPI

Captain Manuel González Pérez, Specialist in Breeding Horses LOOK MY DEAR, WHEN BREEDERS GIVE ME THE REGISTRATION OF THEIR HORSES, DO I REMEMBER EVERY ONE? OF COURSE I DO, THOSE STALLIONS … JUGLAR, HISPANO, CARIÑOSO…AND SO MANY OTHERS. TAKE A LOOK … I RODE THAT ONE TOO, DESTINADO. AND WHAT MARES, MY DEAR. WHAT MARES! LOOK, ARCILLOSA, IT IS AS IF I COULD SEE HER NOW. WHAT A GOOD DAM! IF A HORSE WORKS WELL WITH A MARE, YOU HAVE TO REPEAT THE OPERATION…EVERYTHING HAS ALREADY BEEN INVENTED.

The

years spend in the Armed Forces and at the Cría Caballar Office, as well as the experience acquired from working at civilian stud farms, has motivated the Catalonian PRE Breeders’ Association to name him Technical Manager, a position I have held since I became a member of the Reserve in 1993. Catalonian breeders have and continue to confide in him to handle their documents because of his good practices, sense of humor and willingness to work, all of which are backed by his knowledge. For this reason, he considers it his obligation to work with all those aspects that are for the benefit of PREs and their breeding in Spain. Well aware of the responsibilities of his work, he welcomes me at the offices of the PRE Breeders’ Association of Catalonia. His office reflects his life and career, with piles of documents indicating the amount of work yet to be done. Each rosette represents a battle won. Like a village schoolmaster at the blackboard, he shows me the difference that defines a breed, and does it with the pride and humility that can only be gained through knowledge.

Maria

Luisa

Sala

Shelly

Photos

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

Eli

163

www.ancce.es

I strike

up the conversation thinking of his characteristic sense of humor.

Capitan ,Capitan, the boat is sinking …

Well, it is better for it to be sinking than to be thinking… I haven’t seen horses in my days…Dear, there is nothing like it. But hear me well: when I was sent to Morocco, I saw pure Arabs and Berbers. That is when I was posted at the Military Stud Farm in Larache (Morocco) and under the orders of Commander J. Manuel Benjumea Vázquez who has been Field Captain at the Military Stud Farm in Ecija. Together, we drove 14 kilometers daily in a carriage to inspect the stud farm, and he showed me how to pick out a lame horse in the herd from a distance. He had an eagle’s eye! If a horse shakes its head, something is wrong… He comments that it was his father, a farrier and blacksmith officer with the Cavalry at the II Sire Stallion Depot in Jerez, who instilled in him a love for horses. He was born in 1936; at the age of 18, he signed up to the Armed Forces as a volunteer and asked to be assigned to the Cavalry. Now, at the age of 71, he nostalgically recalls his first post. He has been assigned to a number of military depots and stud farms. For the traveler, there is no road, as the road is made while you walk… In 1954, I was sent to San José del Valle (a military breeding center), in Cadiz, and the first horse I rode was Bambu; the last that I remember was Undecimo, from the Military Stud Farm. I did a course as a specialist in breeding in Alcala de Henares, in Madrid, then returned to Jerez; I was stationed at the breeding center in Huelva, in the Protectorate in Melilla, as the Attaché in Ceuta. Oh, if I were to list them all… I became Lieutenant in 1982, and was sent to the IV Sire Stallion Depot in Hospitalet de LLobregat, in Barcelona. I have been Captain through merits since 1988. I became a member of the Reserve in

1993; I have been the manager of private stud farms and several associations. At that time, and under the supervision of several breeders, I managed to merge the various Associations in Catalonia, and to thus create Equus Catalonia. He jumps from 1954 to 2007 with the envious joy typical of a person who enjoys his work. He recalls anecdotes from the seventies, eighties and nineties, the names of horses, stud farms and breeders, some which were lost along the way and others that continue. He communicates the excitement of a person who relives those moments as if they were happening right now… On the desk lies an open magazine with old documentation about a PRE, his sire, dam, grandfather - the entire lineage. Look my dear, when breeders give me the registration of their horses, do I remember every one? Of course I do, those stallions … Juglar, Hispano, Cariñoso…and so many others. Take a look … I rode that one too, Destinado. And what mares, my dear. What mares! Look, Arcillosa, it is as if I could see her now. What a good dam! If a horse works well with a mare, you have to repeat the operation…Everything has already been invented. There have been years and years of specialization; all that the military discipline has helped accept the changes within the sector, especially in recent years. I’m just another guy among those responsible for developing the stud book, with the help of Beatriz Escudero. This computer business just doesn’t go with me. I continue to use a typewriter… the type we’ve always had. My work is in the field, for and from horses. I have always said that I am a civic-serviceman serving breeders. The day I can no longer get up in the morning, I’ll never come back. The day that I can no longer get up in the morning, I’ll never come back.

I have always said that I am a civic-serviceman serving breeders

164

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

DAILY VETERINARY PRACTICE

EQUINE EXTERNAL PARASITES

By: Esther Gutiérrez Garde Veterinarian with Merial Laboratories

The term “parasites” is usually associated with worms that lodge in the digestive tract and that appear there through the ingestion of eggs or larvae present on grass. However, you must not forget that parasites can also affect a horse’s most extensive organ: its skin. These, then, are known as ectoparasites. Described below are some of the most frequent ectoparasites in equines.

Mange

Sweet Itch Mosquitoes are among those agents most commonly involved in skin problems caused by parasites. Mosquitoes are responsible for a process of hypersensitivity or allergy, known as Sweet Itch, which is the most common skin problem in equines. This disease is neither contagious nor infectious, as it is an itchy dermatitis, originating in the immune system. There is no link to sex or age, (although it usually appears between the ages of 2 and 6), but there is known to have a hereditary component. Mosquitoes are seasonal, being more active when the days are warm. Their activity begins at the end of March and continues until the start of October in the northern hemisphere, being more active at dawn and dusk. The pathological problem generally comes to light during the summer and is linked to an individual allergy to the bit of the mosquito. Mosquito bits cause an inflammatory reaction followed by pruritus (severe itching and scratching). The horse

begins to scratch its mane and tail. The wound lead to a vicious circle and become chronic. Asymptomatic dermatitis can appear in winter but, when summer arrives, the symptoms reappear. Among the methods for fighting sweet itch, it is fundamental to limit exposure to sensitive horses, keeping them in stables. The use of insect repellent and insecticides, such as Fipronil, is effective for two weeks. The effectiveness of the antihistamines is controversial and the use of corticoids must be carried out with caution due to their secondary effects. The use of desensitization vaccines is theoretically the most appropriate treatment although their effectiveness seems to vary greatly from horse to horse.

Warble Fly Warble flies (hypodermosis) are also responsible for another external parasite problem, warbles. The mature flies lay their eggs on the hair of the horse, the larvae enter the body through the hair follicle, where is grow to form

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

165

www.ancce.es

nodules. The larvae later bore a breathing hole in the skin. In the case of Gasterophilus inermis (bot flies), the eggs are laid in the cheek area, ingested through licking where the larvae develop and penetrate the subcutaneous tissue under the skin, forming dermatitis in summer. The most appropriate treatment is the application of oral Ivermectin (EQVALAN DUO®).

Habronemiasis Habronemiasis, better known by the term “summer sores”, is also a parasite problem transmitted by insects. It appears in summer and is recurring. The common fly, when feeding on the secretions from small wounds on the skin of the horse, injects the larva of a parasite (Habronema) into the subcutaneous tissue. Due to the metabolism of the parasite, the wound fails to heal. The wounds usually appear on the extremities of the horse, around pasterns and fetlocks, although other locations should not be overlooked. Other types of habronemiasis occur in the area around the eyes and around the genitalia. The ideal treatment for this problem is to use oral Ivermectin (EQVALAN DUO®), repeating the dose at 15 days.

Scabies or Mange Scabies is a dermatitis caused by the pathogenic action of mites. There are various types of scabies depending on the mites involved (E.g: Chorioptic, Psoroptic, Demodectic, etc.). Their clinical manifestations vary according to the location and severity. • Chorioptic scabies is found in the region of the fetlock and pastern, usually of the front legs; it causes great itching and pain, and can even ending up causing lameness. • Psoroptic scabies is less common than the above. It is found in the mane and ears, and characteristically has a moist appearance, since the mites feed on the blood and sweat. It is very itchy. • Demodectic scabies is not very common and less of a problem in horses that in other species of animal. It generally appears in the facial region and, contrary to the above ones, does not produce itchiness. Common to all the types of scabies are their high capacity for infection and their sensibility to Ivermectin (EQVALAN DUO®) as do the mites, if applied topically.

Ticks Ticks are mites that usually affect grazing horses. They are hosts of the agents for equine piroplasmo-

Habronemiasis, better known by the term “summer sores”, is also a parasite problem transmitted by insects. It appears in summer and is recurring.

Hypodermosis

166

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

sis (Babesia caballi and Theileria equi) and also know in English as biliary fever. Prevention is difficult due to the absence of a long term treatment against mites that can be used in horses. To avoid infection it is necessary to at least carry out interventions with insecticides (pyrethroids and organophosphates) on access to the stables. These, applied topically on the animal, do not remain effective for more than 3 days. Fipronil has been proven to be quite effective.

Lice Lice are typically observed in winter and at the start of the spring. They do not support a skin temperature of more than 38ÂşC. Infection could be direct, by close contact, or by

means of the material used for cleaning the horses, as well as blankets or harness. Lice cause itchiness and therefore hair loss at the withers, base of the tail and distal areas of the limbs (fetlocks and pasterns). Affected animals must be isolated, all the affected material disinfected and insecticides used on the animal. Fipronil seems to give excellent results. Its action is long lasting (from 3 weeks to 1 month) and breaks the parasitic life-cycle.

Ringworm (Micotic dermatitis) External ringworm is not in fact parasitic; it is a pathology produced by fungi. Ringworm, contrary to the

ectoparasites, does not characteristically produce pruritus (itching). It is seasonal and occurs mainly in winter, when the animals are stabled, since the fungi need a certain level of humidity and heat. The lesions that are produced are quite characteristic: they are usually circular, scaly and accompanied by hair loss. Contact between animals during breeding or at competitions, life in competitive clubs and stud farms, transportation, etc. are all situations that can favor the spread of contagious diseases. It is therefore important to enforce hygiene and handling measures so as to avoid ectoparasites as much as possible.

Ringworm, contrary to the ectoparasites, does not characteristically produce pruritus (itching)

Hypodermosis

September - October 2007 / El Caballo EspaĂąol

167

HIGH SCHOOL

Spanish Walk II By Alfonso Cuesta

Calmness must be established at all cost Continuing to work without this necessary calm leads to chaos that will complicate the subsequent learning process

Before

continuing with what I believe to be the most orthodox method for teaching the Spanish walk, and the only one about which I will speak, I feel that it is necessary to point out the risks of the traditional method, in many parts of Spain, of using the Spanish Walk and its aids: a whip used by a person on the ground, and the rider alternating the leg and hand aids as a base, from which, once the horse knows them and therefore is able to perform the Spanish walk, to teach the horse passage and piaffe. I repeat that this is traditional, but inappropriate. What generally happens is that those horses taught passage and piaffe using this methodâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;with the exception of those horses trained by magnificent ridersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;perform these movements with their forelegs, frequently not in the manner for a correct authentic passage, and they do not perform the passage at all with their hind legs. Likewise, the piaffe becomes a false copy of an authentic piaffe. Therefore if you want a quality passage and piaffe, minimizing the possibility of errors and at the same time, to a greater extent, guaranteeing more transitions, never use the Spanish walk and its aids as a bases to achieve passage and piaffe.

168

ANCCE

Photo by: Lemos

In the previous chapter, the horse was calm and straight, and at the touch of the whip from the person on the ground, knew how to raise or stamp each of the forelegs. The next step to be taught is that working, for example, on the left rein, the person on the ground touches the left fore leg. After the horse has reacted, the rider walks it two or three steps forwards before the person on the ground touches the right foreleg and once again the rider asks the horse to walk forward. After having achieved this three or four times with each foreleg, the horse must be rewarded with a treat and walking around the arena on a long or loose rein. Rewards are very important as they are the signs that tell the horse that it is interpreting the aids correctly, and walking the horse around the arena on a long or loose rein, with the neck extended helps the training to a great degree: the horse calms down, it relaxes its muscles and

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

Horses taught passage and piaffe using this method perform these movements with their forelegs, frequently not in the manner for a correct authentic passage, and they do not perform the passage at all with their hind legs with which the piaffe becomes a false copy of an authentic piaffe Photo by: Carlos Núñez

it has time to assimilate the previous should be an artistic representation lesson. There is also that which I call of excellent horsemanship becomes the aid of place, which is no more a painful experience and even or less than, during the first lessons, a layman will easily see that the asking for the same exercises in the horse is not relaxed in its work. If same places. Doing it in this way, there is no relaxation (physical), you can see that when the horse there is no calm (psychic) and vice reaches that place, it is already versa, and quality horsemanship is predisposed to doing what was impossible. In any event, this other asked of it on previous occasions. type of training, one of violence You must be very attentive, and tension, is comparable to the because if that predisposition to training given to goats that must go perform is excessive, the horse will up some stairs and put their four feet get ahead of what the rider wants, on a block. Be not deceived; this is a and this attitude will complicate matter of personal choice, unlinked the learning process, as it will not to anything within our environment. be following the order given by the You must decide for yourself to be trainer. If this happens, the place a rational, receptive and reflexive must be changed, or the horse educator. There are thousands of walked around the arena on a long excuses for not doing things that lead rein, or another exercise asked for. to evolutionary training, but they are Jose A. Garcia Mena In the most serious cases of when the only that, excuses. They are not true; horse gets ahead of the rider’s requests, if I am explaining this, it is because I also it will be necessary to stop asking for the have been there and back again. I still Spanish walk that day or for however many days are sadly remember the horses that I cut from their girths necessary. Calmness must be established at all cost. to their flanks and the blows that I gave them with an Continuing to work without this necessary calm leads olive branch, which made those poor animals bleed. to chaos that will complicate the subsequent learning What a beast I was! Fortunately, I got over that years process, not only of the exercise at hand, but rather ago, and now I am some where else, from where it will rebound on the entire training, as once a horse I can tell you: help the horse (give aids), because becomes nervous, if it has not been taught to relax, it helping achieves much more and a great deal sooner will generally become more and more nervous each than violence, whether physical or psychological. Be time and will take longer to calm down; this usually leads receptive to perceive what is happening inside your to a horse to jog, and constantly moving its horse’s head; be rational to interpret it wisely, head up and down, chewing the bit and contemplate to discover what It is fundamental to preserve compulsively, etc… in other words: the next “move” will be. Horses an unbearable horse that will constantly send us messages the mental health of as many of not even serve for hacking and we have two possibilities: to these kind and temperamental horses, out. You must remember what magnificent representatives of the Purebred play with them intelligently and I mentioned in the previous diplomatically, or take them Spanish Horse, as possible. Their only chapter, and which I will wrongly to transform aids into wish is to please their rider continue to repeat: the rider is punishments. Each person must there to educate the horse, not to make his/her own decision. mistreat it. A rider who tries to teach an I know that on this occasion I have written exercise to a nervous horse is committing the crime little about the basic mechanics of the teaching of the of psychological abuse—at least in ethical terms. Spanish walk, but I think it is better this way, because it is To learn well, being calm is vital. Many good horses with fundamental to preserve the mental health of as many generous characters, wishing to please their riders, are of these kind and temperamental horses, magnificent ruined—or rather, their riders ruin them—because of a representatives of the Purebred Spanish Horse, as lack of knowledge or an unhealthy desire for stardom, possible. Their only wish is to please their rider, but in the advised by a misunderstood pride and excessive vanity, end, receive a reward in the form of punishment and while failing to care for the psychological stability of misunderstanding. these generous horses. These riders fail to realize that Please, be rational, receptive and thoughtful. Have with this treatment and poor handling, they transform a “good understanding” with these horses. This way the training of these animals blessed by nature, and everyone wins and everyone is happy. which are plentiful amongst PREs, into torture. What

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

169

NUESTRO INVITADO DRIVING

www.ancce.es

Persian Scythed Chariot

By Luis Rivero Merry

Driving

THROUGHOUT THE CENTURIES

Before

going any further into the understanding of driving and its diverse uses in this day and age, it occurred to me that it would be interesting to know, although in very general terms, the origins and development of carriage driving throughout the centuries.

It is impossible to include the content of the full text as published in a single article. What I am trying to do is to offer the reader these lines so that you can follow a continuous itinerary taking you to the end of the journey of this object that has been, and continues to be, so useful to humankind.

Thus, centuries came and went. Driving (and carriages) go back to the deepest of ancient times, through the Middle Ages to modern times and the present day, evolving, logically, in step with the advances of humanity, perfecting its structures to end up achieving, finally, those models that we enjoy and admire today.

My reference will be Luis Soler, in his “History of the Carriage”, published in

This historical process has been of interest to many specialists, who have provided us with the fruits of their efforts and, logically one of these will be mentioned in a summary (a very limited summary) of their work.

170

ANCCE

1952 by Editorial Cigüeña of Madrid, and prefaced by His Excellency the Duke of Alba.

representation of carriages drawn by horses or asses, which figure in a bas-relief. This type of carriage— the oldest known—established the bases for the vehicle components, which have even reached us today. Although in a rudimentary manner, you can see the box, the wheels (these are made of two half wooden discs joined together), with its axle crossing through and fixed by means of a peg (cotter pin) in the hole drilled in the tip. There is no suspension system.

This author tells us that the earliest document that graphically demonstrates the existence of a device on wheels pulled by animals is the Standard of Ur, which appeared in Asia Minor as a consequence of some archaeological excavations, carried out in 1928, in some tombs of Sumerian origin, dated at 3,500 before Christ, in Ur of �� Chaldea (located in modern-day Iraq). It is the

This discovery means that we now know what the primitive vehicle models were like, and what their uses were …for transporting cargo, important people, for war… and how they were attached to the horses, asses or oxen with harness that, the same as the carriages, used pieces similar to those used nowadays for the same purpose.

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

Egyptian Oxen Chariot

These carriages allowed the Sumerian civilization to move from the banks of the Persian Gulf to those of the Mediterranean. The next documented step is found in Assyrian documents with the basreliefs preserved after the destruction of Nineveh by Scythian and Medes invaders. These bas-reliefs represent the victorious campaigns of their kings, since the Assyrian people were warlike by nature and enjoyed hunting lions and tigers. The carriages represented are larger than those of the Sumerians, and more perfect and better decorated that these, with high sides and decorated with relieves and the application of metal. Those for war and hunting had a simpler, more practical built. These are followed by the Egyptians, who knew about carriages following the invasions of the Asian shepherd people, who imported horses and carriages to the Nile valley.

Assyrian Throne Chariot

Thus, the means of transport and their element of traction were introduced in Egypt and, following a period of adaptation to this means of transport, they both improved in quality. Up to 1800 before Christ, after expelling the invaders, figures of horses were engraved in the temples and Egyptian tombs (in Karnak, the carriage of Ramsses II and in Luxor that of Ramsses III). This makes you think, and many authors defend the idea that they descended from the Arabian breed. The Egyptians improved carriages by making the box lighter and improving the wheels with the invention of spokes and adding copper tires to their circles to protect the tread. They cared for their external appearance, carefully painting them and stylizing them for war, for hunting and for transport. In the Florence archaeological museum, a real Egyptian carriage is on show.

Following the Egyptians, the Persians managed to use their carriages with the greatest effectiveness in war, since they, aside from being excellent riders, were magnificent charioteers. The Scythed Chariot appeared during the reign of Cyrus the Great, a predecessor of the current combat chariot, as an authentic war machine. It hosted two large sickles or scythes at the ends of the axles and a combination of knives embedded in the rear so as to hinder an attack from behind. The Persians, when the mounted cavalry started displacing the carriage for war, they adapted it for a new sport: races. In this last competitive sport and used in war and other tasks, the following phase in carriages and drive moves to Greece; the leap to Europe. In an effort to avoid making this article too long, I will continue the journey throughout Europe, in the next issue.

July - August 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

171

NUESTRO ANCCE REPORTS INVITADO

www.ancce.es

MEETING OF THE PROMOTION AND COMMERCIALIZATION ROUND TABLE Francisco Angelet, Pedro Luis Llorente and Pedro Llargues invited Javier Conde, Pedro Maza and Fernando González to a meeting held on the 22nd of May in Madrid. The objective of this meeting was to contribute ideas for a better promotion and commercialization of the Purebred Spanish Horse Photo by: Lemos

Nazareno from Yeguada Fermín Bohorquez

Mr. Francisco Angelet began the meeting by informing about the executive committee decision to merge the taskforces due to their close relationship with communications. He indicated that under no circumstances was the objective of this taskforce to sell horses for breeders, but rather, aid them in terms of promotion so they can sell their products easier. In his opinion, a short, medium and long-term promotional plan needs to be established. Our market segment must be determined to decide what needs to be promoted in each case and how to proceed. Since there is not sufficient budget to reach the entire world with all the proposals, it is necessary to select the most interesting markets.

172

ANCCE

Various alternatives were presented and the attendees agreed in the need to reach the final client—generally an amateur rider—and in the importance of promoting both within and outside of Spain. There was consensus that the stud book is fundamental to collaborate with the promotion. Procedures and problem solving must be effective for breeders and owners once they have purchased a PRE horse, so that they are satisfied not only with their horse, but with all other related aspects. To achieve suggested:

this,

the

following

proposals

were

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

1. For amateur riders Seek to offer a scenario in which they can use their horses, encouraging them to participate in competitions that are entertaining and attractive both to the general public and to amateur riders. These riders would see that their horse is useful, and the general public will see that they too can ride and participate without being professionals or breeders. Photo by: O. Tarragona • Create a freestyle dressage competition with music for amateur riders

The proposal is to promote the participation of PRE horses in 1.20 meters (approximately) competitions. Incentives would be through monetary awards, or by running show jumping exhibitions with the PRE during the competitions, so that the parents can see that PRES can jump, have better characters than ponies and they are also good for other activities (dressage, hacking…). A subcommittee would have to be created the tests and establish the pertinent contacts with experts in each discipline.

2.- International promotion Greater collaboration with the national breeder associations is essential to work jointly so that these associations do not perceive Spanish breeders as competitors, because there is a market for everyone.

The age of the horse would not be a factor (contrary to what happens with Federation completions) to facilitate owner participation. It would be launched to coincide with conformational competitions, due to their distribution throughout the country, their infrastructure and the fact that these generate public interest.

The possibility of approaching sponsors of products that are linked or closely related to horses (olive oil, tourism, wines…) is also being studied. It would be a good idea to create a subcommittee to search Quintero for sponsors, making use of the contacts that breeders already have in companies with the capacity to invest in this topic.

Central European horses are currently imported to satisfy this need of the Spanish riders. When this need has arisen this country, we have not known how to lock in to this market.

In spite of the fact that the previous proposals are exportable to other countries, the following proposals were also suggested for international promotion:

Monetary prizes are being studied, and the possibility of organizing a final at SICAB. • Create a high school competition This is a discipline that is ideal for the PRE and is of great interest both in Spain and abroad, especially in Latin America. It is a matter of creating a test similar to that of dressage, without being too demanding, free-style and with no age limit for the horses. High School Association will be contacted, to outline the proposals. • Promote the competitions

use

PREs

show-jumping

This is a project that has been mentions repeatedly in the past. There are a great deal of show jumping competitions in Spain, with great number of imported ponies.

• Collaborate in competitions held in other countries This measure seeks to place PRE horses before potential consumers in other countries. It would involve sponsoring (financially) some competitions (conformational or those suggested above), which would be organized under the sponsorship of ANCCE. • Create a PRE show This would involve designing a show, with professional riders, to demonstrate the virtues of the PRE and travel to different countries. With a variety of performances (approximately 30 minutes), this show would demonstrate the versatility of the breed (dressage, vaquera, high school, driving, cobra…). It could also incorporate amateur riders into this exhibition, to “sell” the image of PRE horses to the audience (older people, children, ladies…). The objective would be to take this show to a number of equestrian events and participate in their program of activities. The Paris Equestrian Trade Fair could be

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

173

www.ancce.es

the starting point for this project.

has proven its ability to be among the elite.

• Participate in Trade Fairs with a stand

Certain, outstanding horses—in dressage or driving—could be sponsored so that they are able to participate in top competition, offering a sum to cover travel expenses to international competitions outside of Spain.

Fairs/Trade Shows would be contacted to include PREs in the arena as part of their program of activities. His is an essential of a good promotion for Purebred Spanish Horses so that the general public can see them in action.

• Outstanding international riders or drivers Another option is to contact outstanding riders and drivers from other countries, offering them PRE Horses for competition. ANCCE could finance part of their expenses so that these riders/drivers would compete with PRE horses. This would bring increased prestige—if good results are achieved—as well as major international promotion.

We must have quality furnishings for a quality image; furnishing rented at fairs and trade shows are generally quite ugly, uncomfortable and excessively expensive. It would be worth our while to purchase quality furnishings for exclusive use at these events. To do this, it is important to count on the collaboration of the association of the country in question. The aforementioned translates into a considerable increase in costs compared to previous years; it would therefore be necessary to concentrate on very few markets with regards to these events. Markets must be selected very carefully and participation would have to be for at least 3 years. We can contact the breeder associations from each country in which we are participating to compare costs, find out who could lend horses (if they are quality horses), about storage and/or loan of furniture, contact with the trade show organizers to reserve a preferential place for the stand and for the exhibition in the arenas, etc. • Clinics and seminars Organize clinics with prestigious riders, such as Rafael Soto, vaquera riders, or driving in various countries. This would enable breeders and aficionados in the various disciplines to meet while at the same time attract those who use other horse breeds in these disciplines and to make the breed more widely known and understood. • Invitations to SICAB For journalists (a current practice) • Sponsorship of outstanding horses Top Competition must not be overlooked or forgotten because it is an extraordinary element for the promotion of the Purebred Spanish Horse, especially when the PRE

174

ANCCE

• Publicity in specialized magazines Both in the PRE breeders’ association magazines and in those with national Triunfadora coverage. The ideal from Yeguada would be to advertise in Alberto Abajo the magazines of those countries where more promotion is carried out, so as to support our presence. Advertisements should appear throughout the year, in all breeder association magazines, because they are cheap and they reach our target public. A motto for the PRE, must be sought to be used in all our publicity.

3.- Other proposals • Training schools Other suggestions include the creation of a training school within the sector, to offer professionals to breeders, or where relevant, establish contacts with those training centers currently training in Spain. Meetings would be held with the various Regional Ministries of Agriculture, Education and/or Employment, to establish the needs of the sector. This is the basis for developing the world of horses thanks to the added value for the product, both in terms of handling and training.

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

MEETING BETWEEN ANCCE REPRESENTATIVES AND M.A.P.A. The subjects covered in the meeting affect the Tribunals for Qualified Breeding Stock and the international Stud Book-related issues

Meetings have been held this week with MAPA, to clarify a series of important aspects that were still pending confirmation: 1 -. . TQB: until now there have been no Tribunals for Qualified Breeding Stock, because, months ago, ANCCE requested more control and strictness in the radiology examinations designed to eradicate OCD. A meeting of veterinary radiologists was held on the 11th of May, at the University of Cordoba School of Veterinary Science. Their conclusions on this matter were sent on to the Directorate General of Livestock, who failed to respond until last Monday, therefore, the TQBs for 2007 will be as follows. a) Number of TQBs and their geographical location: In 2007, there will be five (5) TQBs in Spain, plus those requested and approved abroad. TQBs will start at the beginning of September, so that breeders have the opportunity to adapt to the new X-ray norms and do not have problems with time. The locations of the TQBs in 2007 are listed below; final dates to be confirmed: - Dos Hermanas (Sevilla).

for the breeder, a listing of veterinarians with the corresponding technology will be supplied. • The study must include the 10 x-rays requested to date. All breeders in Spain will pay a standard price of €330, plus €0.50 per kilometer, when the veterinary has to travel to the location where the horse is at the time. If the horse travels to the veterinarian, mileage will not be charged. • Veterinarians will digitize the x-rays on a CD, including the veterinarian’s exclusive identification and the horse’s microchip number. This CD will be sent to the University of Cordoba Veterinary Hospital that will provide the osteochondrosis report, and return the written report to the veterinarian who took the X-rays. • Included herein is an appendix with the contact details of the radiologists that have digital equipment and who accept the prices and mileage as detailed above. This list is not exclusive; there could be more veterinarians with this equipment, who would be qualified to carry out the radiological study. • If the horse is free of OCD, he will then be able to register for the desired TQB. • Confidentiality is guaranteed, as the hospital veterinarian will work only with microchip numbers and not with the names of the horses or stud farms.

- Oviedo. - Talavera de la Reina (Toledo).

• If the breeder disagrees with the verdict issued, he/ she can appeal to a committee of experts

- Malaga. - Barcelona b) X-Rays required of those horses presented at a TQB: The same as previous editions, for which the already published and updated veterinary protocol has been sent. However, the main novelties are: - Verification of reproductive organs. Certificates may be granted by the stud farm veterinarian, but always on official, stamped certificate paper from the College of Veterinarians. - Radiological study: The procedure to be followed is as follows: • The X-rays must be digital; CONVENTIONAL X-RAYS ARE NOT ALLOWED. • There is freedom of choice when selecting a veterinarian, but the study must be performed using the aforementioned technology. To facilitate things

• The requirements with regards to OCD have changed so that only those horses with serious cases in specific locations—fetlock, hock and stifle—will be unable to participate in a TQB. • Upon arrival at the TQB site, the certificate granted by the University of Cordoba Veterinary Hospital MUST be presented. • It will be the LG PRE ANCCE Stud Book appointed veterinarians, from the area in which the TQB is held, who will be responsible for the identification and measuring the horses presented. c) Registrations and payments: Registration is through the Stud Book Application form, Request for Attention, marking the Service of TQB. This application must be sent to the ANCCE offices and will also specify the

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

175

www.ancce.es

location of the TQB that is to be attended.

Hispano from Herederos de D. Salvador Guardiola

The rates for this year will be as follows: -

Registration fee to cover organizational expenses: €210 (VAT INCLUDED).

- Fee for the LG PRE ANCCE Stud Book: €25 (VAT INCLUDED). The total of two hundred and thirty-five euros (€ 235) can be paid with a single transfer to the account: 2100-2320-550200168822. d) Practical Aspects of the TQB: - A minimum of twentyfive (25) horses will be required to hold a TQB. - The maximum number of horses evaluated in a single day shall not exceed thirty-five (35). - The same record sheet from previous years will be used; a horse will be considered Apt or Not Apt based on the average of the final score given by two qualifiers. - The individual scores of the horses will not be given out, simply the reference of whether it has been found APT or NOT APT. All breeders may personally ask to see the summary sheet that is handed in, including the averages for the body parts of the horse presented. - A horse will be considered NOT APT if it has any score of less than 5, although this aspect will not be made public, it will simply be stated that it was not apt. Photo by: Lemos 176

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

Listing of TQB Veterinarians

Nº Last Name/s

Nane

Province

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42

Pablo Miguel Antonio Marta Jesus Joaquin Gaspar Alejandro Pablo Maxwell Richard Jorge Carlos Rocio Alvaro J. Juan Jose Carlos Miguel Manuel Juan Aitor Guillermo Raquel Mario Jaime Jordi Emilio Raul Eduardo Manuel Ramon Silvana Leon Miguel Manuel Mª Angeles Alfonso Javier Federico Tiago Marta Javier Marc Moises Manuel Alejandro Antonio Isidro Jose Rosa Pau Miguel Jose Luis

Adrados de Llano Bajon Roman Ballester Villena Bezunartea Lopez Cantero Cabello Cantos Leyba Castellgin Climent Sentena Crecente Maseda De Almeida De La Calle Delgado Aparain Delgado Peñalba Delgado Salazar Diaz Villarias Estepa Nieto Fabregas Felipe Garcia Galisteo Martinez Gallastegi Menollo Garcia Palma Gomez Lucas Gonzalez Coviella Goyoaga Elizalde Grau Ripoll Guil Galindo Hernandez Pla Hernandez Robles Herran Vilella Jimenez Silvana Lizaur Barbudo Llorca Miravey Manso Porto Manzano Rodriguez Martinez Galisteo Mota Vargas Nieto Leon Pereira Prades Prieto Besó Pujol Batlle Redondo Cano

43 Rodriguez Garcia 44 45 46 47 48 49 50

Romero Lasmeras Ruiz Lopez Sanchez Verdugo Sanmartin Serra De Fortuny Valdes Vazquez Vega Plan

Email 1

Madrid Madrid Barcelona Sevilla Sevilla Ecija Cadiz Gerona Barcelona La Coruña Alicante Madrid Malaga - Cadiz Caceres Sevilla Valencia Cordoba-jaen Valencia Cadiz Sevila Sevilla Malaga Madrid S. C. De Tenerife Madrid Barcelona Almeria Cordoba Cordoba Madrid Malaga Malaga Castellon Cadiz Sevilla Estepa Cordoba Sevilla Malaga Pontevedra Barcelona Valencia Barcelona Toledo

Telephone Cell Phone (+34) (+34) 629071957 918435143 636969623 659545555 610202155 649199741 956303989 956303989 635560322 661119190 670800100 609451469 918435143 696965919 608418619 608926899 617451438 656906961 606763808 620530090 616013557 660982757 607939416 607939416 607650644 651512822 610751717 607229495 637075798 670800333 655905422 678873160 629502564 950245567 629272625 651046499 639333371 610400328 616533311 670265625 669135018 670440522 655668251 647698324 667582867 626481421 678642443 670506096 686965010 620961315 652958868 655331037 661500822

San Vicente

616975220

Manuel@veterinariosanvicente.com

Zaragoza Murcia Cadiz Pontevedra Barcelona Cadiz Cordoba

609269915 670862570 606080077 670506096 659442401 627529220 957322344

Vet-esp-equidos@micorreo.cai.es Isidrorl@um.es Josesanchezvet@hotmail.com Casaldorio@teleline.es Pserra@arsequina.com Miguel@laequina.com Jvegplan@oc.mde.es

606080077 649435958 661816646 610367873

Padrados@equitan.com Equidos@husanveterinario.com Ballester@enblanco.e.telefonica.net Martabezu@telefonica.net Jcancab@telefonica.net Joaquin.cantos@realescuela.org Gaspar@equihealth.eu Equisalut@gmail.com Hospitalequinum@terra.es Magalibra@terra.es Jcalle@vetmed.lsu.edu Cda@hotmail.com Rociodelgado@equicentro.com Alvarodelgado@tiscali.es Juanlionheart@hotmail.com Josecarlosestepa@uco.es Mfabregas@hotmail.com Mfelipe@yeguadacartuja.com Jgalmar@oc.mde.es Aitor_gallastegi@hotmail.com Gillevet@gmail.com Rgomeluc@uax.es Coviella@idecnet.com Jgoyoaga@telefonica.net Jr.grau@terra.es Emilioguil@hotmail.es Raulhernandezpla@yahoo.com Vetexpress@hotmail.com Rherran@telefonica.net Vetequin@gmail.com Llorca_mig@gva.es Mmanso57@hotmail.com Estepa@raopel.com Jmota@yeguadacartuja.com Vetequin@vetequin.com Casaldorio@teleline.es Marta.prades@uab.es Jprietobeso@hotmail.com Marcpujolb@yahoo.es Moises.redondo@terra.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

177

www.ancce.es

2-. INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS: MAPA has approved the Registration Procedure to be followed abroad, including the standard agreement; therefore ANCCE can now recognize collaborating associations for the LG PRE ANCCE Stud Book in each specific country. Thus, all countries in the world can now begin registering their horses. Nevertheless, the first evaluation of breeding stock was held in the US in June. Aside from these agreements with the Ministry of Agriculture, through the Directorate General of Livestock, the Stud Book Taskforce has decided to

grant a moratorium for the obtaining of the ownership card at the price of €8. At first the period during which this could be applied for at this rate concluded on the 30th June, this term has now been extended to the 31st July 2007, the date at which the aforementioned ownership cards will cost, €30, for all those horses in possession of a passport. It is necessary to clarify that horses being registered as of the 1st January 2007, will not pay anything for their ownership card, since this is a part of the (new) Passport that is emitted from the Registry offices, whose prices are already regulated.

Mr. Isaías Pérez Saldaña, Regional Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, officially inaugurates the ANCCE P.R.E. Stud Book Office On Monday, the 11th June Mr. Isaías Pérez Saldaña, Andaluisan Regional Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, officially inaugurated the Purebred Spanish Horse Stud Book office, based in the Torneo Empresarial building in Seville. This office has been under the management of the National Purebred Spanish Horse Breeders’ Association of Spain (ANCCE) since the 1st of January of this year. The Regional Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries was also accompanied by Mrs. Rosamar Prieto, alderwoman for Economy and Innovation of the Sevilla City Council, as well as by the President of ANCCE, Mr. José Palma Moreno. Mr. Pedro Rey, the Stud Book’s Technical Manager, was in charge of showing them P.R.E. Stud Book operations, including the full process used when a breeder sends in an application to register a horse. There are sixteen employees at the office, as well as the twenty veterinarians distributed throughout Spain. Since ANCCE took over the P.R.E. Stud Book at the beginning of the year, more than 3100 registrations, affecting approximately 13,900 Purebred Spanish Horses have been handled.

178

ANCCE

Pedro Rey, Jose Palma, Isaías Pérez Saldaña and Rosamar Prieto

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

ANCCE ACTIVITIES IN MAY, JUNE & JULY A new section has been included in the magazine so that all ANCCE members will have first hand information regarding the activities carried out by the governing body, the negotiations undertaken, and conclusions reached in equestrian politics. With no further ado, here is a summary of the past month’s activities. - MEETINGS WITH NATIONAL ASSOCIATIONS: Since May 7th, a number of meetings have been held with regional and provincial associations throughout Spain. There have been a total of 17 meetings held with Associations in Sevilla, Huelva, Cordoba, Granada, Almería, Murcia, Valencia, Catalonia, the Basque Country, Cantabria, Galicia, Castilla León, Andalucia, Castilla-la Mancha, Avila and Extremadura. These meetings were held with the various Associations’ Board of Directors. The objective was to learn their opinions on hot topics involving the regulation of rules and regulations in the upcoming months. The current Board of Directors is aware that it must accept the responsibility to present proposals before the Ministry, but it is extremely important to know the general opinion of the majority within the sector as if we contribute to legislating something that is not accepted by all, it is doomed from the very start. A number of subjects and proposals were covered during the meetings: A)Assisted Reproduction Methods (artificial insemination and ovule and embryonic transfer). As everyone knows, Royal Decree 1133/2002 authorizes artificial insemination and the transfer of ovule and embryos to those horses that are registered as Qualified Breeding Stock, with no limits whatsoever. ANCCE believes that you can’t “fence the open plains”, and that modern medical technology, whenever it benefits breeders, should be used while always taking into consideration the possible repercussions that it may have on the global market for PRE horses. In the equestrian world, there are three different directives on this matter: - Breeds that have decided to prohibit assisted reproduction methods: This is the case of English Thoroughbreds, which allow for the registration of horses from natural covering. This has meant that the good stallions obtain a high price for breeding, and the actual value of the sire stallion, in some cases, is worth several million euros. - Breeds that have fully liberalized assisted reproduction systems: In general, these have been sport breeds with very demanding selection criteria. Thus, only 3 to 4% of the censuses of sire stallions have the necessary level to reproduce within the

breed. In terms of inconveniences, it would be very complicated to incorporate such a demanding selection system, and it would hardly be accepted by the vast majority of breeders. Moreover, in these cases, it would be more a matter of having a brand name horse than a breed, which would allow the herd to access a stallion of another breed that would contribute to the improvement of that breed/horse. - Breeds that have accepted assisted reproduction methods, but have limited the number of birth certificates per horse and year, based on the level of quality achieved by the sire stallion: Accepted for all horses (the conclusion has been reached that it is impossible to verify how each breeder has his/her mares covered), so it has been decided to establish limited numbers: the number of horses per year that a horse can breed, whether stallion or mare, based on the degree that the said horse has achieved within the breed selection scheme. The system in effect in Spain (as established by Royal Decree 1133/2002) is to freely use assisted reproduction methods in qualified horses; this could mean that a person may breed Purebred Spanish Horses without even being the owner of a PRE horse. Representatives from the various Associations have fully agreed with several aspects of this subject: - Admit assisted reproductive methods. - Limit the number of birth certificates per stallion and year, based on the quality that the said horse achieves within the selection scheme. - That, in the case of embryonic transfer, the host mare must be a registered PRE with the basic evaluation. B) Conformational Competitions: The opinion is unanimous in regards to needing profound changes in order to recuperate the credibility currently lacking in the sector. The proposals made by ANCCE have been well-received, although we believe there are other institutions that must discuss this matter, including Judges’ Associations, competition organizations, etc. ANCCE proposals included the following: - Establish categories for contests and judges, as is the case in soccer (European football), where there are different divisions. - Establish an annual promotional and relegation system among the various categories.

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

179

www.ancce.es

- Change the card and judging card. - Bring about specialization among judges. - Mandatory standardization of judging criteria. - Etc. C)Selection Scheme: Both the Circuits and the TQBs have been discussed; however, it has fundamentally been the latter proposals, which have been formulated by ANCCE before the Ministry of Agriculture, that have been studied. These consist of organizing the X-ray studies by using digital radiology, using a single hospital to interpret said Xrays, and eliminating the notes at Tribunals so that horses are either Apt or Not Apt. The proposal for the TQBs in 2008 include a basic ridden test, which would be mandatory for stallions and voluntary for mares. For more information about the TQBs, you can read the latest newsletter on the subject at www.ancce. com. - MEETING WITH THE NEW JUDGES’ ASSOCIATION DIRECTORES: Mr. Diego Marín and Mr. Javier Velázquez, with whom other meetings will be held to discuss the possible changes faced in matters associated with judges and judging. - AGREEMENT SIGNED WITH THE SANLUCAR DE BARRAMEDA HORSE RACING SOCIETY: With this agreement, ANCCE will participate at this important venue with a box granted by the organizers to attend Association breeders visiting this tourist event, considered to be of national interest. - MEETINGS WITH THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE: There have been eight meetings with the various individuals in charge at the Ministry of Agriculture. From the Secretary General, Mr. Josep Puxeu, to the breed inspectors who supervise the Stud Book, who visited the LG-PRE-ANCCE Stud Book offices. Topics covered with the Ministry included the following: - New Rules and Regulations for this year’s TQBs. - Collaboration Agreements with international organizations to handle the international scope of the Stud Book, including the legal framework and requirements. The first Agreement was signed with the PRE Foundation in the USA as of July 4th, presided by our dearest collaborator, Ms. Barbara Currie. - Analysis on Reference Lab operations. - Development of norms for the new Legislation, 662/2007, which, as you all know, has been repealed by the new legislation—1133/2002—as of early June. - Study of the fees affecting the Stud Book. - VISITS TO INTERNATIONAL BREEDER ASSOCIATIONS: To report on matters associated with the Stud Book in other countries, to establish competencies among already existing associations (remember that in many countries with limited PRE density, there are two or more PRE breeder associations), and to analyze the procedures to be followed by ANCCE staff. The countries visited included:

180

ANCCE

- Italy: Where meetings were held with AICCE and AIPRE to try to reach an agreement. - Australia & New Zealand: These countries have been breeding PRE horses for more than thirty years, but there is a major lack of information and resources, which must be addressed immediately. - USA: Since ANCCE is handling the Stud Book, the first evaluation of Breeding Stock outside Spain was held. - Costa Rica: Breeding stock has also been evaluated and a project for a TQB outside Spain has been launched. - Germany: Members of the Communicational and Promotion Taskforce held a meeting with the technicians from the Hanoverian Association to observe their “modus operandi” in order to see what aspects exist and how these could transfer to the PRE breed, as this association has years of selection and global marketing policies. - England: We participated in the New Market Fair with a commercial stand that was attended by ANCCE staff. - OFFICIAL INAUGURATION OF THE ANCCE STUD BOOK OFFICE: In June, Mr. Isaías Pérez Saldaña, Regional Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries for the Andalusian Government, officially inaugurated the new LGPRE-ANCCE Stud Book offices located in the Nuevo Torneo Business Park in Sevilla. - EXECUTIVE COMMITTEES: Three Executive Committees have met in recent months. The dates were May 10th, coinciding with the Jerez “Feria del Caballo” (Fair), June 15th and July 20th, at the offices in Sevilla. The next meeting is planned for September 7th, to coincide with the celebration of the Board of Directors. - TASKFORCE MEETINGS: During the past three months, the various Taskforces have held several meetings. The most important conclusions of all these meetings have been listed below: A)Stud Book Taskforce: a.The proposals made by the International Associations with whom an agreement was to be signed have been presented and the text written. b.The Procedures to be used outside Spain have been drawn up. c. Conflicts reported by breeders and specific Stud Book related actions have been resolved. d.In keeping with new Royal Decree 662/2007, the new petition for the LG-PRE Stud Book was drawn up in keeping with the new legal framework. B) SICAB Taskforce: a.Trustworthy communication with judges on the official list so that they may to respond within the established limits and in writing of their availability to judge at SICAB. The final list will be prepared based on those judges who have answered, so that breeders can vote for the judges they want. As with

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

Trenzado from Ganadería de Herederos de José María Escobar Photo by: Lemos

the past edition, voting will be on the actual horse registration petition sheet. b.Due to the incidents at last year’s SICAB, the breeder marquee will close daily at 10 p.m.

c. Re-structure the Web so that it is a real tool serving breeders. d.Begin sending e-communications to members.

c. Breeder commercial stands will be renovated.

e. Establish a real manual for the promotion of the breed globally for both the short and medium-term.

d.A new show for this year.

E) Selection Scheme Taskforce:

C)Office Taskforce:

a. Establish new bases upon which the TQBs in 2007 will be based, as well as the calendar.

a.Negotiations are underway with the Dos Hermanas Town Hall for a donation of land, free of charge, where future ANCCE facilities can be located. b.Preparation is underway for an “idea contest” among professional architects to elaborate the project. c. Preparation of a “Who is Who?” office catalogue within the Association, including outside contractors (Legal, Economic, Communications, etc.). In others words, a true, long-lasting organizational chart for ANCCE. d.Adapt to the General Law for Data Protection 15/1999 and register the databases with the Data Protection Agency. e. Set up a work procedure that links all the staff working for the Association—currently 34 people—including the offices, and Stud Book and CAR-ANCCE staff. f. Formulate a petition for aid for 2007 before the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food. D)Communication and Promotion Taskforce: a.Exchange of information with other associations of other breeds to compare systems. b.Plan a new format for the magazine, with a market study and an economic feasibility plan, as well as contracting magazine staff.

b.Scientific workshop on osteochondrosis in Purebred Spanish Horses, and its verification to access the TQBs on May 11th, at the University of Cordoba School of Veterinarian Science, presided by Professor Manuel Novales. c. Calendar of the 2007 Young Horse Circuit. d.Meetings with the Circuit Committee (MAPA) to determine dates, subsidies and aid. e. Establish the international TQBs so that, in 2007, there will be three TQBs - two in the United States and one in Costa Rica. f. Meeting with the genetics department at the University of Cordoba and proposals to change the Selection Scheme. g.Study about assisted reproduction methods and their incidence in the new, proposed Selection Scheme. F) Competition Taskforce: a. Prepare the draft of the new Rules and Regulations to send out to all ANCCE members so that allegations can be formulated to better prepare the final copy. b. Meeting with representatives.

the

Judges’

Association

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

181

www.ancce.es

José Palma and Miguel Sánchez

ANCCE SIGNS A COLLABORATION AGREEMENT DE BARRAMEDA HORSE RACING SOCIETY

WITH

THE

SANLÚCAR

The emblematic Bodegas Hidalgo (Wine cellars) of Sanlúcar de Barrameda was chosen for the signing of the agreement between the National Purebred Spanish Horse Breeders’ Association of Spain (ANCCE) and the Sanlucar de Barrameda Horse Racing Society.

The signing coincided with the presentation of the 2007 Sanlúcar de Barrameda Horse Racing season with the participation of the highest representatives from both organizations. Representing ANCCE was its President Mr. José Palma Moreno, while Mr. Miguel Sánchez Delage, the Racing Society President, represented the said Society. ANCCE will have a box during the celebration of the second cycle of races, that is to say, from August 23-25. The box, located in the finish area, with have a catering service to attend all ANCCE-related breeders and institutions. Breeders are invited to spend pleasant a time and to enjoy these beautiful races.

By virtue of this agreement, the Sanlúcar Horse Racing Society will have a 16 m2 stand at SICAB, which will, as is usual, be located in the breeders’ marquee. The Sanlúcar Horse Races are declared to be of international tourist interest and are attended by multitudes of spectators, offering the possibility for the association to start and improve relationships with institutions linked to the world of horses. For more information about the 2007 races, please consult the web-site: http://www.carrerassanlucar. es/

The box, with a capacity for approximately twenty people, will be open during the afternoon-evenings, coinciding with the races. ANCCE will also have a special, 50 m2 VIP Business Box for one day, which will be determined.

182

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

Official recognition of ROYAL DECREE 662/2007 about selection and reproduction of purebred equine livestock The Directors of Council 90/427CEE constitute the Community legislation regarding the selection and reproduction of equine pure breeds. The Ministerial Directive 90/427/CEE, dated June 26, 1990, regarding the zoo-technical and genealogical conditions, which regulate the intracommunitarian exchanges of equines, constitutes the basis upon which the communitarian legislation for the selection and reproduction of equine breeds is based, and by which the stud books receive special reference. The criteria and requirements for the official recognition of breeder associations is provided for in the Decision 92/353/CEE, by the Commission, on June 11, 1992, which establishes the criteria for the authorization and the recognition of the organizations and associations handling or creating stud books for registered equines. Based on the favorable evolution of this sector, indicated by a statistical increase in stud books numbers, the improvement in quality and the international projection of equines bred in Spain, both native as well as foreign breeds, this legislation was modified, thus allowing, therefore, the adaptation of the legislation with regards to selection and breeding of equines to what already exists for other livestock species. Thus, the system was liberalized for those stud books handled by an official service department, so that they could be handled by the associations recognized for this task, provided that the associations fulfill the requirements anticipated in this present Disposition and that they establish the obligations to guarantee the suitable management of the breeds, avoiding any possible dispersion of criteria among the associations could compromise the correct application of the improvement programs. The object of this Royal Decree is to establish: a)The legal framework for the official recognition of the registered equine breeder associations, for them to hand stud books. b)The zootechnical and genealogical conditions that regulate the communitarian exchanges of equines and imports from third (non-EU) countries. c)The legal framework of the equine stud books, as well as the criteria for the registration of horses, and their selection as reproduction stock

Photo by: Lemos

DIPLOMA The President of the National Association of Purebred Spanish Horse Breeders, Mr. JosĂŠ Palma Moreno, has presented a diploma of accreditation to all full members of this great family in thanks for their support and association with ANCCE throughout the years. At the same time, the concept of this diploma is to welcome all those new breeders who are joining with new visions, and who are encouraged to not lose their passion, motivation and interest in the Purebred Spanish Horse, including all those who have re-joined after having been absent for a period of time. On the diploma appear the details of the stud farm, with its brand integrated into a unique design linked to the Purebred Spanish Horse and ANCCE. With this gift, he would like to thank everyone for their contributions, which have lead the Association to become that which it is today, represented internationally, and which have caused the Purebred Spanish Horse to develop in a way that locates it currently in more than sixty five countries.

September - October 2007 / El Caballo EspaĂąol

183

www.ancce.es

Hechizo XIV

THE AUCTION TASKFORCE ESTABLISHES SEVEN NEW AGREEMENTS This past 22nd of June, the Auction Taskforce met in Cordoba to adopt a series of agreements. These included: - As this issue goes to print, there were 42 stallions, 15 mares and 8 groups of fillies registered for auction. - Visits to stud farms began the second week of July. The goal was for the selected horses to be reviewed according to the established veterinarian protocol by mid August. A photographer will accompany the veterinarian to take pictures and videos of all horses. That way, we will have the images early enough to post on the Web. - Breeders participating in the Auction will be offered the possibility of their own riders to ride their horse where they are stabled, as well as at the actual Auction, the month prior to the Auction. - The starting price has increased as follows:

184

ANCCE

€ 9,000 for stallions. € 6,000 for mares. € 3,000 for each filly included in the group of fillies. - All bids will increase by € 1000 to facilitate the rhythm of the auction. - The Auction date is November 22nd and will take place in the marquee set up for mares. To facilitate the auctioning process, access will be controlled, either through accreditations, or with a fee at the door. - There will be increased promotion of the Auction abroad in an effort to have a greater participation of possible buyers from outside Spain

www.ancce.com

International

www.ancce.es

MEETINGS WITH THE BREEDERS’ ASSOCIATIONS OF AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

In order to report on the current situation with regards to the LG-PRE Stud Book and the problems that have been faced in the receipt of details and the possibilities of providing LG-PRE Stud Book services in the various countries, a delegation traveled to New Zealand and Australia from the 18th to 21st July. This delegation was headed by Pedro Pons (a member of the executive committee and commission for the handling of the International Division of the Stud Book) and Manuel González. Once there, meetings were held with the various breeders’ associations in order to better understand the current situation, to listen to their proposals and to get to know, first hand, the state of the sector in the above mentioned countries. In New Zealand, meetings were held with the representatives of three breeders’ associations; specifically, ACPRE (Associación de Caballos de PRE) New Zealand, APANZ (Andalusian & PRE Association of New Zealand) and the NSHA (National Spanish Horse Association of New Zealand). The presidents of each of the associations attended the respective meetings, which were held on the 18th of July in Auckland, along with their board members (Sabina Hole, Susan Grindell and Adriane Bryce, respectively). ACPRE is the only association that has, at all times, collaborated with FESCCR (the cria caballar); in fact, it was formed exclusively for this purpose. This association is dedicated exclusively to the PRE Horse. The other two associations have members with Purebred Spanish Horses, crossbreds, part PRE or a “related” breed (Lusitanos, Paso Finos, Lipizzaners, etc.). Nevertheless, they all basically share the same social basis and directives. Each one independently organizes its own events, but processes the documentation of their PREs and also receives information about the breed and LG-PRE by means of ACPRE and are, in general terms, happy with the work that has been done in the handling of their paperwork. At the end of each talk, there was an interesting debate in which local breeders could ask questions about unresolved issues, which have been added at the end of this article, as they coincided with the inquiries of their Australian neighbors to a large degree.

AUSTRALIA Australia imported PRE horses in the 1970’s, but it was not until 2002 that FESCCR (Cria Caballar) added a section in their LG-PRE for this country. During the 30 years of the Breeders’ Association (AHAA), a Stud Book was set up to control horses that are both purebred PRE, as well as those horses that are a cross between PRE horses and other breeds. Thanks to this, it was possible to set down the basis for a real and truthful census, and to provide some organization for the initial visits by the evaluation commission. The excessively slow response in the registration process in Australia has resulted in the loss of traceability for a large number of PRE horses born in Australia, as well as the progeny of the horses imported from Spain.

PRINCIPAL IDENTIFYING MARKS OF THE AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATIONS PREAA. This association developed from the AHAA, founded in 1973 to control the progeny of the PRE horses imported from Spain in the 1970s. Since its origins, it has maintained an official register of all these horses, as well as the crossbreeding of PRE horses with other Australian breeds. This has led to the creation of a registry which includes all of these horses. It still represents the vast majority of PRE breeders in Australia, with more than 40 people attending its meeting on the 22nd June. Its president is Catherine Nicholls. ACPRE AUSTRALIA. This association was created prior to the first visit by the evaluation taskforce and had been collaborating until 2006. Its president is Bryan Monk. The meetings with this association were held in Melbourne on the 21st and 22nd of July.

MESSAGE FOR THE ASSOCIATIONS In both Australia and New Zealand, the following points were emphasized: 1.- To explain the complexity of the transfer of details and insufficient updating, which has resulted in numerous petitions for the initial status of the stud farms.

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

185

www.ancce.es

Uranio from Yeguada Maipe

2.- The necessity to receive the above mentioned details in order to offer the LG-PRE Stud Book services to breeders. 3.- The new elements of the LG-PRE Stud Book, including: ownership card, breeder and owner code, blood samples to be sent to Spain, and blood sample collection card. 4.- The necessity for a national blood bank in order to investigate hereditary diseases and to be able to claim and prove a horse’s paternity. The requesting of ownership cards for all currently registered horses, with the exception of foals, as these have yet to receive a passport and will receive the ownership cards when this is issued. 5.- Continuity of previously authorized veterinarians. 6.- The carrying out of registrations and basic evaluations in 2007 in each country, and information about the TQBs, which will be carried out, outside Spain, in 2007. These registrations will be undertaken by the veterinarians authorized by FESCCR (Cria Caballar), and staff from Spain will perform the initial evaluations. 7.- The rates charged by the LG-PRE Stud Book, and the need for the approval of those charged by the associations, which must justify their proposals. It has also been stressed that all breeders and owners have the right to receive the same treatment. 8.- The need to unite all the associations in each country in order to better promote and communicate the correct information to both breeders and those interested in the breed.

186

ANCCE

9.- No penalization for surpassing the registration deadlines during 2007. 10.-The elimination of terms such as Andalusian, Iberian, Baroque and others that differ from PRE or Purebred Spanish Horse, to clarity to the markets what this horse is. FREQUENTLY ASK QUESTIONS AND SUGGESTIONS. • Artificial insemination and embryo transfers: which stallions can do these and if it basic breeding stock within each country can use these forms of reproduction. • Stallions that have not been evaluated and approved, but which have progeny: how can their foals receive the necessary documentation? • Can a breeder contact the LG-PRE Stud Book directly in order to request assistance? SUGGESTIONS RECEIVED. • To hold clinics throughout the country that will provide breeders with information about breeding, handling, feeding and general care, dressage and presentation. People are anxious to receive information from Spain. • To create promotional materials with the above mentioned points (in the form of DVDs). • The ability to download the forms on which to apply for assistance from the Internet. These should all be in English.

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

MEETING BETWEEN ANCCE AND THE ASSOCIATION OF HANOVERIAN BREEDERS Francisco Angelet, President of the ANCCE Promotion and Communication Commission, together with Manuel González, traveled to Verden on the 6th of July to visit the headquarters of the German Association of Hanoverian Breeders, in order to closely study their program of breed promotion and selection and to exchange points of view about these topics. This represented the first of a round of visits that have been planned in order to better produce the mediumand long-term plan for the promotion of the PRE, which is foreseen to be presented during September, containing the principal elements indicating how and where the PRE can be learned about, as well as the objectives to be pursued.

The process for the selection of a stallion begins with the breeder himself, who decides whether or not to present the colt for testing at 2.5-years-old, which lasts for about 12 years and ends with the testing of this stallion’s descendents.

The PRE is currently bred in more than 60 countries, and markets must be searched for internationally, in addition to it being internationally that most investment must take place. For this reason, it is important to make contact with entities that have had both a great deal of experience and have achieved results in this activity.

This is the third great tool for promotion, carried out by means of an organization of courses on the handling, feeding, breeding, and training of the horse in different languages, for both the breeders and supporters (both in Germany and abroad), as well as the creation of a network of international agents. In addition to their daughter associations in the USA, Australia and New Zealand (admitted after having worked with them for 20 years), they have agents that are paid by the association and located in strategic countries such as Spain, Italy and France.

Some of the most effective international marketing policies have been carried out by the Hanoverians, this being one of the best known breeds worldwide despite having a relatively small number of horses and having had their breeding geographically centered in the region of Lower Saxony.

Details of the Hanoverian association FOUNDATION: 1922 (although it was created as a club in 1888).

Year 2005

Year 1985

5,464

13,091

Nº ACTIVE MEMBERS:

10,257

8,688

REGISTERED MARES:

19,469

15,204

Nº MEMBERS:

MARES COVERED: 12,664 12,193 APPROVED STALLIONS: 440; of these, 150 belong to the state. ANNUAL BUDGET: € 5,000,000

BASIC PILLARS OF THEIR PROMOTION: - - - -

Auctions. Selection and control of production. Post sale service. Selection and control of production.

The current promotion of the Hanoverians is as a competition horse because, without exception, they win at the Olympics in show jumping and dressage and are amongst the best in eventing. All this derives from the rigorous selection policies and control of production utilized to maintain excellent quality criteria. The figures from the last 20 years speak for themselves: there has been a 28% increase in the total number of registered mares (1.4% annually), with 3.8% of those being covered mares.

- Post sale service.

In addition, they maintain excellent relationships with the National Federation and German trainers and riders who are dispersed all over the world, these being an important element in forming opinions in favor of the breed. We would like to thank both Dr. Hempel, the director of public relations and marketing, and Mrs. Mueller, representative of the Hanoverian Association in Spain, for the information with which they have supplied us. Although this is a breed of competitive horses, the objective of the promotion commission is to learn first hand what the breeders’ associations of the most noted international breeds do in order to take note and adopt those measures that are compatible with the PRE, its aims and system of breeding purity. One of the principal conclusions extracted from this first meeting is the importance of selection for promotion, and how closely these two things are linked, as well as control of production. In the not too distant future, these visits will be continued by the central headquarters of the breeders’ associations of other horse breeds, both purebred and cross-bred, which are used for different leisure and competitive purposes and are known for their international promotion, so as to continue accumulating knowledge and experiences with which to design the best possible plan of promotion for the Purebred Spanish Horse.

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

187

www.ancce.es

Representatives of the National PRE Federation of Belgian and the Costa Rican Association are interested in handling the Stud Book Cyril Vanderbroeck, President of the Belgian Federation, along with two other members, Marc Wunderlin and Alain Mahieu, and Paula Chantada Vincente, Executive Director from Costa Rica, traveled to Seville with the aim of gaining a more thorough understanding the administration of the Stud Book, and thus to learn about the latest novelties. The meeting was presided over by the President of ANCCE, José Palma Moreno, the Technical Director of the Book, Pedro Rey, the International Director, Arancha Rodríguez, the Director of the ANCCE Competition Department, Jacobo Rojo. After the visit to the office of the Stud Book, in Nuevo Torneo, the meeting concluded with a pleasant dinner and the presentation of plaques to the representatives of both associations as a gift from ANCCE. Since the breeders and owners, by means of the Association, can control and supervise the selection scheme and improvement plan for the Purebred Spanish Horse, there are countless associations and international federations that request meetings with the representatives of the Stud Book and ANCCE in order to thoroughly understand its administration and to have it as a reference in their own country.

Photo by: Olga Tarragona

César

ANCCE INTERVIEWS ITALIAN PRE BREEDER ASSOCIATIONS ANCCE Representatives traveled to Florence to discuss the handling of the Stud Book and policies to promote Purebred Spanish Horses in Italy On May 22, ANCCE representatives traveled to Florence to meet with the Italian Breeder Associations, to discuss Stud Book details and policies for the promotion of Purebred Spanish Horse in Italy. The ANCCE delegation interviewed AIPRE (Italian PRE Association) and AICE (Italian Association of Spanish Horses) representatives at the Unaway Hotel in Florence. There are two Breeder Associations in Italy and the main reason for the visit was to inform them of the advances in PRE Stud Book affairs in Italy, and discuss the information that is still pending receipt at the register.

equestrian events in the world, Fieracavalli, which is held in Verona. This year, the event will hold its 109th edition. Therefore, talking about joint promotion with the associations was another major topic. The objective is to participate in important events in Italy and obtain firsthand-knowledge about needs of the potential Italian clients, in addition to offering our collaboration when organizing tests for the PRE.

Italy is an expanding market, with strong historical ties to Spain. It is also host of one of the most important

188

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

ROCIERO A PRE Conquers American Arena It is not a coincidence: when a good horse is matched up with intelligent people, it’s more than probable that that horse will reach the expected goals without getting lost along the way. It is not easy to find a horse, whatever the breed may be, able to play in the elite athletic field; nevertheless, it’s also true that, when this does happen, if that horse weren’t in the hands of a person like Margaret Carrera, it would have probably never reached its maximum capacity. Margaret, as soon as she was aware of the possibilities that Rociero offered, rolled up her sleeves

Rociero

and began working: good planning, the election of the right rider and a good trainer who could do the work right to get the very best out of a horse. And why not? There was a bit of luck involved too, although this comes hand in hand with hard work. These are the ingredients that have make Rociero earn important triumphs in American arenas, and for that, we may see him on the US Dressage team in the near future. That would make us more than happy! From here, we wish his owner and the team making it possible the very best of luck for the future, which is looking very bright.

Photo by: Barbara Bella

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

189

www.ancce.es

KRISTINA HARRISON (TRAINER of ROCIERO)

By José A. Fdez. Lineros Is he the first PRE that you have ridden?

He has a fabulous work ethic and temperament and is obviously so athletic that the work isn’t so difficult for him. He’s smart though, and sometimes outsmarting him becomes the biggest challenge.

I think these horses have fantastic temperaments and make very suitable horses for amateur as well as professional riders.

He can do anything and everything well, but I would say his ability to piaffe is extraordinary

No, a couple of years ago I was searching for a horse for one of my students who needed a kind, safe and smooth horse and we found a wonderful Andalusian who filled the bill perfectly. Tell us a little about yourself, when did you start riding? How did Rociero come to you? I’ve ridden since I was a child, it’s really the only thing I can imagine myself doing. I started out riding hunters, which is in the U.S. a modified style of jumping. I discovered dressage when my hunter needed some help with his flatwork and haven’t looked back. Margaret was searching for a trainer for Rociero and showed me a video. The second I saw him I knew he was my horse and that I HAD to work with him. It really was love at first sight for me Who is your trainer? My trainer is U.S. Olympic medalist Debbie McDonald. As a United States Equestrian Federation Rider who is long listed for the U.S. Team, I am also fortunate to be able to work with Klaus Balkenhol, our national coach Have you followed a different system of work with Rociero than with other horses? I don’t follow a different system with Rociero than with other horses. They all have their strengths and weaknesses and I believe a good horse is a good horse, no matter the breed. He has a fabulous work ethic and temperament and is obviously so athletic that the work isn’t so difficult for him. He’s smart though, and sometimes outsmarting him becomes the biggest challenge. What essential differences have you found, when working, between this horse and those of other breeds, such as the central-European breeds that are most popular for dressage?

190

ANCCE

I really don’t think in terms of breeds. I deal with the horses as individuals and try to accentuate their strengths and strengthen their weaknesses. I will say that I think these horses have fantastic temperaments and make very suitable horses for amateur as well as professional riders. What are Rociero’s most outstanding virtues? I’m laughing, because the thing that most people are initially struck with when they see him is his beauty…is that superficial? But, he’s as beautiful on the inside as he is on the outside. That’s not to say that he can’t be challenging, but we have an ongoing conversation about things and he’s always fair and generous What is/are the exercise/s for which Rociero has most ability and where do you feel that he is most happy? He can do anything and everything well, but I would say his ability to piaffe is extraordinary What exercise have you found to be the most difficult or which do you believe that he finds the most difficult to perform? It’s not an exercise per se, but I think one of the trickiest fundamentals with any horse, Rociero included, is getting them truly connected from the back to the front and over the back. Do you believe that he could make the USA team? Of course! I don’t imagine that the USA judges are use to judging PRE horses; do you believe that that is an advantage or a disadvantage for you and the horse? I think that at first we probably were scored a bit on the low side, as judges are only human and didn’t really know what to do with Rociero. I think we’re past that and are now being judged by the same standards as any other horse and rider team.

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

Photo by: Barbara Bella

Kristina Harrison with Rociero September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol 191

www.ancce.es

MARGARET CARRERA (Owner of Rociero)

By José A. Fdez. Lineros It did not take long to see his conformation, temperament and trainability were exceptional. He loves his job and all the attention he receives. At all competitions he draws a crowd. He has quite a fan club

Did you buy him in Spain? Yes, Rociero XV was purchased in Spain 5 years ago in May of 2002 What attracted you to Rociero so much that you ended up buying him? Photo by: Barbara Bella I am embarrassed to say this, but Rociero was purchased sight unseen. Juan Matute told me about the stallion and thought that I would enjoy having him. He said that he was exceptionally beautiful and would be a wonderful riding horse for me. I trusted his judgement and moved ahead immediately so that I would not lose this opportunity.

Tell us a little about Rociero’s life, his origins, the journey, how you found him, etc... Rociero has had quite a journey in life. I understand that Rociero was shown at the ganaderia of Ferrer Rovira in Tarragona. The trainer was Manolo, also called Manolo el de Arcos. I was told that Rociero was a wonderful exhibition horse and had a natural talent for piaffe and passage. However, the first thing I noticed about Rociero was his incredible temperament!! He came out of quarantine so quiet and calm. Once he arrived at the farm the second thing that we observed was that he had three wonderful gaits, very straight and suspended with a wonderful slow cadence. Since our focus was dressage, this was bound to be Rociero’s future. With our resident trainer, Ana Gilmour, we started showing Rociero. We started at 3rd level. It took us 2 years to train him to Prix St George. During this time he was USDF All Breed Champion at each le-

192

ANCCE

vel that he showed. In 2006, we decided that we would give him the opportunity to reach his potential. We needed to find a rider/trainer that could compete at the international level. After some research, we interviewed a few trainers and choose Kristina Harrison. She was a member of the US Gold Medal Pan American team in 2003. Her coach, Debbie MacDonald, provided a reference which help to finalize the decision. Rociero went to Los Angeles to train with Kristina. He began showing Grand Prix just this year. He placed 3rd overall at the US National Championships at the Festival of Champions in Gladstone, New Jersey. Who bred Rociero? His carta indicates that he was born in the ganaderia de Antonio Torrica Fernandez. The Servicio de Cria Caballar show that he came from the ganaderia de Ferrer Rovira When you bought him, were you looking for a competition horse or did that come later? As mentioned earlier, we did not originally purchase Rociero thinking that he would be a highly competitive dressage prospect. But since all horses on our farm are trained in dressage, he was started down this path. It did not take long to see that he was a natural; his conformation, temperament and trainability were exceptional. He loves his job and all the attention he receives. At all competitions he draws a crowd. He has quite a fan club.

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

Rociero and his rider are on the short list, and are scheduled to go to Germany to train with Klaus Balkenhol and compete in Europe this coming September and October Extended trot

Now that you know him, What do you most like about this horse? There is nothing not to like about Rociero!! We joke that he is the perfect horse. Of course I like his beauty, temperament and trainability the most, but he really is near perfect. He comes out the same every day and loves his work. When you take him to a show, he gets off the truck the same. He is a very thoughtful horse and does not seem to be bothered by much. Even the veterinarians say he is the easiest horse to breed that they have ever handled Do you usually ride him or is he only ridden by your trainer? This is something that I miss; the trainer is the only person to ride him at this point in time. One day, I hope he will come home and be my riding horse. Have you had other PRE horses before?

Photo by: Barbara Bella

We continue to learn everyday how important it is to have qualified dressage trainers to work with your horses. Owners and sponsors like us must be patient and listen to their advice.

Yes. We started breeding about twelve years ago. Recently, the breeding has been cut back to a limited number of select mares. We have 11 horses in the US and 5 in Spain. Our first competitive PRE horse was Bizarro XX, who qualified and showed at SICAB, once as a four year old and again as a six year old. We now have five stallions coming up behind Rociero. We have high expectations for all of them. In Spain we have 2 breeding mares, one is Fandanquera the dam of the black Grand Prix stallion Fandanguero who was recently sold to Russia. Do you believe that Rociero and his rider could be in the future USA team? It is too early to know if Rociero will be on the team – anything can happen in a year. However, Rociero and his rider are on the short list, and are scheduled to go to Germany to train with Klaus Balkenhol and compete in Europe this coming September and October. I think this will be the test as to how well he is received in the international ranks. Do you think that the PRE is a good competition horse?

Rison & Rociero

We believe that training a PRE horse to compete internationally in dressage is very similar to training warm bloods which dominate the sport. A good horse is a good horse and very few of any breed are fortunate to compete at the Grand Prix level. We continue to learn everyday how important it is to have qualified dressage trainers to work with your horses. Owners and sponsors like us must be patient and listen to their advice.

Photo by: Barbara Bella

It is rewarding and wise to enjoy your horses at every level of competition. The old saying “there is something about the outside of a horse that good for the inside of a person’ is so true. The Pure(bred) Spanish is so special and deserves to be appreciated. We are grateful to Juan Matute, and his wife Maria, for finding us this wonderful horse and for their long term friendship. We believe the Spanish horse will play a greater role in international dressage competition and we are proud to help promote the incredible qualities of PRE’s in America and Spain.

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

193

PRE HISTORY

www.ancce.es

PRIOR TO THE BIRTH OF A MYTH, THE PUREBRED SPANISH HORSE JOUSTS AND TOURNAMENTS (IV) By By Juan Carlos Altamirano

Tournaments, just like chivalry, have become myths and their historical reality distorted largely due to the fiction of literature and films which have placed facts in historical contexts that differ greatly from reality. Tournaments were rooted in the classical Greek Era, where they were performed both to maintain the physical well-being of warriors and as a means of practicing military tactics.

The

term “joust” stems from the Latin term iusta pugna, which means a dual or fight between two contenders to justify the rightness of one. Originating in northern European countries, it was customary at that time to settle political, social or economic decisions by combat; the final result was attributed to the decision of God. Later, the term covered a series of Cavalry games

194

ANCCE

or exercises in which knights proved their skills handling weapons, thus differentiating tournaments— in which simulated weapons were used—from the games in which real weapons were used. This gave rise to the terms we know today; tournaments (torneamentum) and conflictus gallicus (Gallic confrontations), attributed to the French. Although no one really knows when tournaments began, an 18th century text attributes their invention

to Geoffroy de Preuilly, whose death has been established to have occurred in 1066 through an epic poem about the Counts of Anjou. This theory has been presented by numerous historians, although, due to a lack of documentary basis, it is unreliable. In fact, it is doubts about the origin of the event that has given rise to new research based on more accurate documental sources. The reality is that, up to now, there has been a dearth of exact information;

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

Many texts point out that tournaments were war games performed by youths to practice and learn the art of fencing, which was crucial at that time

therefore, we can depend upon suppositions and deductions. The image of tournaments passed down from generation to generation is one of two mounted knights wearing armor that confront one another, competing for a prize, which could have been social recognition, popular admiration or, as in some cases, the love of a beautiful lady watching the combat from a platform. However, that image mixes facts and contexts from two different historical periods. In addition, although the 11th century is seen as the period in which tournaments were born, its inception has recently been moved back to the Carolingian Era. The reason for this is

that many historians currently base this supposition on a text by Nithard, which describes the confrontation of two groups in the year 842, when warriors from two armies competed “as a sport”. These confrontations were carried out between groups from different cities, generally located geographically close to one another. As in the previously mentioned case, this theory lacks sufficient documentary support for it to be fully accepted. However, it is possible that the idea that an army needed to be in good physical condition and sufficiently organized in military tactics to be effective in combat could have been conceived before the 9th

century. In the Roman world, horse races, quadrigas, and wrestling were all used so that soldiers could acquire nimbleness, strength and agility. During these confrontations, military and combat simulations were created. In addition to improving tactics by training with various army weapons, the idea was to improve the physical conditions of the participants. At the tournaments, two groups with a similar number of warriors faced each other, using simulated or sometimes real weapons, taking care not to harm opponents. They faced one another on the “battlefield” with the purpose of taking prisoners and booty from the opposing side. Contrary to what we have been led to believe, it was not a matter of the performance of any given individual or individual deeds, although later these aspects gained a certain degree of relevance. The objective was to perfect and organize group military tactics. In fact, when a knight launched against the enemy as either a sign of courage or by mistake and became separated from the group, he was easy prey for his opponents, who quickly encircled and captured him, thus leaving his group with a smaller number of combatants. It was a demonstration during which competitors were captured who, once the confrontation concluded, would have to pay a price according to the social or military rank of the prisoner, the quality of the horses, number of weapons, and other factors. Many texts point out that tournaments were war games performed by youths to practice and learn the art of fencing, which was crucial at that time. Swords, which were wooden, blunt and failed to penetrate, were used in all games. Lances were another important weapon used in training that were thrown against dummy targets. In this (equestrian) game, the moun-

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

195

www.ancce.es

Tournaments were also the means by which modest combatants could climb the social ladder. This contributed to the aristocratic growth of the knights and their isolation from the rest of society

ted knight, with lance ready, had to hit the circle on a target with the tip of the lance while simultaneously avoiding the counter-weight on the other side as it swung in a circle. It is possible that it was from this turning movement that the word tournament (torneo, or turn) arose. The name is also attributed to the fact that knights would tour around the country, almost always along the territorial borders of the various counties or around the periphery of the royal dominion, to take part in these games or confrontations. The invention of tournaments has also been attributed to Manuel Commeno, Emperor of Constantinople, who loved horseracing. It is said that the word tournament comes from these races because the combatants ran from one place to another. All of this leads us to believe that tournaments had been well established by the 12th century. This occurred as a result of an end to warring disputes between Lords, which disappeared as royal power grew. Although the kings never participated, princes and famous knights did, transforming tournaments into a venue in which to show off both physical and strategic strength. The popularity and social recognition of the tournaments led to the implementation of a system of recruitment for semi-professional knights, or combatants, who enjoyed certain fame for their military skills. There were many knights who pledged allegiance to a specific lord in exchange for economic compensation, a position at court, or the promise that the minstrels would exalt their noble image. As has been pointed out, knights usually took great care not to harm their opponents - but this was not

196

ANCCE

always the case. Accidents were frequent or, as sometimes happened, some angry participant would launch real weapons in a careless way against an opponent, causing numerous wounds. This was the reasoning behind the ecclesiastical hierarchy prohibiting tournaments at the Council of Clermont (1130). Nine years later (1139), in the Council of Leteran II, the Pope imposed the Christian obligation to stop combats from Wednesday evening until Monday morning, while once again condemning the practice: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Those detestable jousts or celebrations which knights are used to attending to recklessly face each other and to exhibit their strength and their daringness can mean both the death of the man and danger to his soul. We do not formally prohibit them. If any one of you meets death, if you seek it, you will not be denied penance or communion; but, in the end, you will be deprived of the ecclesiastical burial.â&#x20AC;? This decision was in vain, as tournaments were already considered necessary in the maintenance of health, as a form of amusement, as a way for a knight to acquire the necessary abilities and intelligence, and as a livelihood for many of them. There was more than one young man who had won either honors or a profitable marriage as a result of his fame as a good combatant at tournaments. It is also true that it was at that time that the strength of the blows was controlled; blunt lances were introduced with more rounded tips, as well as mail and armor to reduce injuries.

But, if the Church intervened in the tournaments because of the dangers they created, the English kings also prohibited them, fearing that the sides organized for war placed royal power in danger of a revolt. King Richard, although aware of this danger, continued to authorize them as a means of keeping his armies in shape. Nevertheless, to keep participants under control, he imposed the obligation of holding a license which could only be obtained by paying a sum of money as insurance in case they either began or contributed to any type of disorderly conduct. Tournaments were also the means by which modest combatants could climb the social ladder. This contributed to the aristocratic growth of the knights and their isolation from the rest of society. On the other hand, those mock combats, now socially entrenched, started to lose their military interest. It was at this time that the infantry, banished in part to a secondary position by the cavalry since the 11th century, recaptured its importance; and with the appearance of artillery on the battlefield, the importance of the infantry would increase even more. While the cavalry could never attain major victories without the support of the infantry, nor could the infantry without the cavalry - the military importance of both came from the association created between the two branches of the army. By that point in time, just as had previously occurred with the tournaments, the art of horsemanship, as we shall see, began to gain prominence among European royalty and nobility.

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

NUESTRO ASSOCIATIONS INVITADO

The ANCCE Board of Directors continues to hold meetings with the breeder associations in Spain The most recent meetings were with the associations in Murcia and Valencia In an effort to have a better understanding of the opinions within the sector on current matters of importance within the field of Purebred Spanish Horse, the ANCCE Board of Directors has continued with its policy of meetings with the various breeder associations in Spain. Recently, meetings were held with the Purebred Spanish Horse Breeders’ Associations in the Region of Murcia—in the city of Murcia on June 20—and the Association of the Community of Valencia (FIECVAL), in Valencia on June 21.

was published—thus repealing legislation 1133/2002— and it has become the new legal framework for equines in Spain.

Meetings with the associations from Cantabria, Galicia, Ávila and Sevilla are planned soon.

In the upcoming weeks, conversations will be held with those associations still pending, to then elaborate a memorandum with the real hopes and expectations for the short and medium term.

These meetings have, in fact, acquired a more important dimension since the Royal Decree 662/2007

ith the implications of this Royal Decree on the various breeds, through the corresponding Ministerial Orders, and the practical application of the law, these meetings have been essential for the future legal framework to be based on the majority breeder criteria.

A meeting between the directors of ANCCE and PRECVAL (Valencia)

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

197

FROM NEWSPAPER ARCHIVES REGISTER

www.ancce.es

The Difficult Topic of Marketing Good prospects for Purebred Spanish Horses When tractors substituted horses in farming, the existence of such noble animals was seriously threatened; there was even fear that to see a horse, people would have to go to a zoo. In effect, after World War II, the equine population in those countries with deeprooted tradition such as England, France and Germany had alarmingly low numbers. However, today, horses enjoy truly promising perspectives. The increase of equestrian activities is so great that in Europe, the number of horse enthusiasts is growing at a faster rate than the actual number of horses dedicated to this field. In the case of Spain, the situation is similar. In many cities and tourist centers all over Spain, riding schools are being organized and founded. Moreover, the number of dressage and driving contests increases every year; the Royal Equestrian Federation of Spain has established specific rules and regulations for such events. Likewise, there is a growing interest in Purebred Spanish Horses in Latin America where the demand grows daily. Breeding PRE horses is not yet a profitable business. Don’t forget that it is only thanks to hard word, sacrifice and perseverance that breeders have preserved and improved our native breed. However, it can be said that if the current growth trend continues, breeding horses will become an economic activity. Thus, Purebred Spanish Horses have a wonderful opportunity for expansion in the light of the number of horse enthusiasts. These are good times for the PRE to reach successes of years gone by as the best equine model. That is why La Gueriniere stated: “All authors have given preference to Purebred Spanish Horses, and have seen them as the first in terms of manageability (agile, suppleness, cadence), pomp and in parades (firmness, nobility, grace).”

198

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

PRE, MALUSO, an exceptional horse Dr. A. Sanchez Belda Member of the National Board of Veterinarians Commissioner member of the Register for Purebred Horses and Mares Madrid Presentation: This is a Purebred Spanish Horse born at the Military Stud Farm in 1949 and who died in 1978 at the Military Sire Stallion Depot in Jerez de la Frontera. He lived twenty-nine years and enjoyed a splendid track record, which we will discuss. History: The entry for MALUSO states: Stallion, golden bay, star, line on thigh and gray on tail; 1.55 meters high; brand from the Military Stud Farm. We saw MALUSO for the last time at the Military Sire Stallion Depot in Jerez, his final post, in May of 1977. Although he still had his vitality, gaits and the typical elevation of his breed, the signs of age were frankly obvious, not so much for the leanness of his body, but for the general whitening, which was especially intense on his head, which was practically white, giving a soft tone of gray towards his neck. This evolution of his coat color was expected, based on the description provided during his youth and his current age. Other characteristics of MALUSO, described when he was destined as a sire stallion, include such details as: -- Head profile: straight -- Conformational details: good -- Movements: graceful -- Temperament: Sanguine -- Live weight: 445 kilos. -- General classification: first -- Estimated value: 30,000 pesetas (approximately €180) -- Destination (usage): sire stallion The above information might very well be ambiguous, therefore, it is our obligation to underline those points with ethnologic meaning, away from individual opinions. In this sense, we must first look at the straight profile, which refers to the head of a modern horse, once the ram headed type was forsaken, with their more sub-convex profile, thus preferring the orthoid or straighter silhouette. The second aspect to consider is linked to the live weight, within the scope of average volume, but with a slight negative tendency, if we compare with the current weight (an average of 500 kilos). In any case, remember that the horse is 25 years old and there are major advances in handling, feeding, prophylactic treatment and care for the breed. We will overlook the reference to his eco-

nomic value, which would be only symbolic in this day and age, if compared to the current prices, especially for a stallion used for export. Family tree: his “pedigree” shows: Genero Bilbaino........ Bilbaina Lebrero......... Rey VII Cantinera IV Cantinera II MALUSO ....... Gaditano Hechicero..... Hechicera Romerada......... Tribuno Jabalina...... Serenilla His sire is descended from “Lebrero” born in 1934, a dark bay, from the BAONES stud farm, and acquired by the Spanish State, to become a sire stallion at the Military Stud Farm. He, by “Bilbaino,” was born in 1922, a dapple gray, at the MIURA stud farm, who at the same time, was out of “Cantinera IV” (1927), was bay and also had a BAONES brand. The names of the great-grandfathers, due to the distance in history, lack any true interest, and are not worthy of comment. From his dam, MALUSO is son of “Romerada,” a bay, and an outstanding mare from the state owned stud farm, whose sire was “Hechicero” (1915), a bay and the dam “Jabalina” (1924), with the same coat color, had the same origins. “Gaditano” and “Hechicera” were both born on the GUERREROS stud farm. The other two ancestors (“Tribuno” and “Serenilla”) were both from the military stud farm, where they were born.

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

199

www.ancce.es

General Assembly Meeting On April 18, at the auditorium of the Provincial Agricultural Chamber in Sevilla, the General Assembly of the Purebred Spanish Horse Breeders’ Association of Spain was held, under the presidency of Mr. Juan Manuel de Urquijo y Novales, Count of Odiel. Special guests at the meeting included Mr. Maximo Balbuena and Mr. Lazaro Toscano from the Purebred Spanish Horse Breeders’ Association of Mexico and representing Cria Caballar, Lieutenant Colonel Tomas del Cojo Moreno and Lieutenant Colonel Jose Luis Toscano Gomez, who are the Representatives for Cria Caballar in Cordoba-Badajoz and Cadiz-Malaga respectively. At the General Assembly, the Agenda covered a wide range of topics which the President explained from the minutes of the 1978 exercise, including the following:

His Excellence Mr. Manuel Engo Morgado, Chief General of Cría Caballar with Excellence the Marquess of Borja, Novales Vasco, de la Calle Bohórquez, Martín Coruello, Marín García, Diosdado Galán, Martínez Boloix, Romero Girón, lieutenant colonel Santiago Carrillo and Cammander Ortiz de Ribera, enjoying a luncheon offered by Cría Caballar

200

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

lines those defects that hinder the fixation of genetic characteristics, and therefore, these horses must be rejected. The theory section of the workshop continued with an enjoyable atmosphere, with everyone paying attention to the explanations provided by Martinez Boloix, the speakers who intervened, and each of the participants but always keeping sights of the characters established by the new Rules and Regulations.

Mr. Conde de Odiel, Mr. Marqués de Borja, Mr. Martínez Boloix, Mr. Marín Bravo, Mr. Novales y Sánchez Barbudo in Guijarrillo de D.E. Lovera

We must thank our good friend Pedro Salas for his initiative in meeting with the members nominated from the Judging Commission to harmonize criteria for the upcoming judging and tattooing of Purebred Spanish Horses for this current year. We appreciate the teachings and experiences received during this two-day workshop, but at the same time, I believe I comprehend the feelings of everyone as I express our congratulations for calling the seminar. Not only did the Seminar increase our knowledge of the Purebred Spanish Horse, but it has been a cordial and enjoyable meeting place for the members as well as the breeders who kindly hosted us at their farms to show samples of their horses and attended us with kind-heartedness. We must also express our appreciation, on behalf of the association members, to the members of the Evaluation Commission, almost all of whom attended the workshop, and they left their daily obligations, all over Spain, to participate. Gomez Cuetara and Diosdado Galan y Bohorquez, due to unavoidable commitments, were unable to attend. However, Marquez de Borja, Fernandez Daza, Martinez Boloix, Salas Garau, Marin Garcia, Mendez Moreno,Romero Giron, Nuñez de Pol, Lazo Diaz, Lovera Garcia, Cardenas Osuna, Novales Vazco and Sanches Barbudo were all at the workshop. On the 21st, we had a more theoretical meeting. The technical aspects were in the hands of a master, an expert breeder and competent veterinarian, Manuel Martinez Boloix, who was the moderator. Fernandez-Daza, known for his experience and pondering, and his work and expertise as a member representing the PRE breed before the Registration Commission, and the author, as President of the Association.

In the afternoon of that same day, after lunch with all the participants at a restaurant located in the center of town, the practical session began, with visits to the stud farms owned by Francisco Lazo Diaz, the sons of Romero Benitez, and the Widow of Terry. At each of the stud farms, a number of horses were examined, differing in age and sex, to show the various characteristics that had been mentioned during the theory session of the workshop. The next day, on a truly exhausting tour, the stud farms of Manuel Martinez Boloix, Enrique Lovera Porras, Miguel Angel de Cardenas Llavanera, Maria Fernanda Esaclera de la Escalera and Jose Mª Conde Muñoz were visited. Likewise, during these visits, the practical aspects of the subjects covered and debated in theory were covered. There was a spirit of collaborative friendship and fellowship with the participants being very satisfied with the workshop, where so much was learnt. Once again, I would like to thank the participants and the breeders and owners of the stud farms visited for their wonderful collaborative spirit, and at the same time, would like to congratulate everyone for this workshop; no only, as mentioned before, for what was learnt, but for the friendship and harmony shown during the event. Juan Manuel de Urquijo y Novales Count of Odiel

Mr. Martínez Boloix, Mr. Salas Garau, and Mr. García looking up a hor from Yeguada Cárdenas

Martinez Boloix guided the conference, presented his opinion about the forthcoming evaluations; breeder members should maintain criteria that contribute to a more correct conformational adjustment of the Purebred Spanish Horse, based on its genetic characteristics. With profound knowledge of the subject, the characteristics of the PRE were analyzed, and time was dedicated to those aspects that could give way to doubts, thus sparking a lively debate on certain aspects. He analyzed in depth such characteristics as weight, height, head, ears, eyes, neck, the intersection of the head and neck and under-

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

201

BREEDER SURVEY

202

ANCCE

www.ancce.es

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

203

204

www.ancce.es

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

205

206

www.ancce.es

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

207

208

www.ancce.es

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

209

210

www.ancce.es

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

211

212

www.ancce.es

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

213

214

www.ancce.es

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

215

216

www.ancce.es

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

217

218

www.ancce.es

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

219

220

www.ancce.es

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

221

222

www.ancce.es

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

223

224

www.ancce.es

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Espa単ol

225

www.ancce.es

Conclusions from the Survey

Approximately 2000 surveys were physically sent out to members of ANCCE, the national associations and individuals related to the sector. Four hundred twenty-three have been returned; therefore, there was a response of 20%. This percentage can be considered high when compared to participation in other similar surveys, and does not mean that it is not very significant, when one considers that there are 3,500 breeders with breeders codes. It could be seen that there were certain subjects included in the survey ignored by the breeders; this was demonstrated by the high percentage of replies that indicated “don’t know” for some questions. For example, in the topic covering embryo transfer (Questions 8 and 9), “don’t knows” accounted for between 42 and 48%, the cause for which is almost certainly that the feeling behind the question was not understood. The idea behind these questions was to avoid fraud. Questions 11.1, 11.2, and 11.3 also presented a high percentage of “don’t knows” - between 20 and 22%. It is difficult for breeders to understand the possible consequences of covering with the semen of dead stallions. The same occurred in questions 16ª and 17ª, which were also related to the transfer of embryos, with “don’t knows” accounting for between 17 and 18%. In those related to conformational competitions, there were also some questions with high percentages of “don’t knows”.

226

ANCCE

www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

Therefore, one error that has been made was either that the questions were not asked in a suitable manner or that there wasn’t available a general introduction to the subjects covered in the survey. This has also come out during direct contact at meetings that have taken place between the Management teams and 16 national PRE horse breeders’ associations; therefore, with regards to the methods of artificially assisted reproduction gathered from the conclusions reached during these meetings, there is a general feeling of the following: 1.Doors cannot be closed to science; both insemination and embryo transfer must be permitted. There are some disagreeing voices, although these are in the minority, who would like to take the position of the English Thoroughbreds and permit any form of artificial reproduction. 2.These methods will positively affect the improvement of the breed. 3.Despite this, they could end up producing negative effects for the market. 4.As a consequence of the three above points, regulation will be necessary to avoid the negative consequences that could arise when using these methods of reproduction freely. In addition, it would be sensible to follow a similar route as that taken by the Purebred Lusitanos as much as possible, where these methods are used, but in a controlled manner.

With regards to the TQB, there is absolute agreement; all the associations have stated the need to be rigorous in the veterinary protocol and that maximum reliability must be given to the horses’ X-ray studies. They agree on the free ridden test in which only the natural paces of the horse are evaluated, and have stated the necessity for starting up the second part of the selection scheme at a reasonable cost to the breeder. The concern for the conformational competitions is common; 90% of cases sided with the system proposed by ANCCE and with specifying the regulations for the appointment of the Judges for a competition. The only exception was one association, which considers that it should be the organizers who name the judges; this association also stated its aspiration to organize the Spanish Championships. Another thing that was stated was that competitions must have more content. Almost all agree with the necessity for profound changes that will make the conformational competitions more reliable. One further aspect of the survey, communication, was not touched upon during the majority of the meetings with the association managers, although everyone stated the need to hold these meetings, as they are a very positive force. They thanked ANCCE for its general attitude – a gratitude reciprocated by ANCCE itself.

September - October 2007 / El Caballo Español

227

www.ancce.es

El Caballo Breeders’ Magazine

ANCCE ASOCIACIÓN NACIONAL de CRIADORES The de CABALLOS de PURA RAZA ESPAÑOLA (Purebred Spanish Horse Breeders’ Association of Spain ) ANCCE-Cortijo de Cuarto (Viejo) 41014 Sevilla Telf.: 954 68 92 60 – Fax: 954 69 03 27 www.ancce.com - ancce@ancce.com ANCCE Libro Genealógico (Stud Book) Nuevo Torneo Empresarial Avenida de la Astronomía, S/N. Torre 3 Planta 9ª Oficina 5 Sevilla Telf.: 954 97 54 80 – 954 35 39 89 www. lgpreancce.com Advertising: Srta. Inmaculada Rodríguez Telf: 954 68 92 60 revista@ancce.com

Edition and distribution: • 4,000 bilingual issues for Purebred Spanish Horse breeders and aficionados all over the world, as well as to offices of interest such as: Spanish Embassies, ICEX Offices, Tourism of Spain, etc...

Español

Purebred Spanish Horse magazine since 1978

Publication Dates: Issue

Publication Date

1/07

16/02/2007

2/07

02/05/2007

3/07

01/07/2007

4/07

01/09/2007

5/07

01/11/2007

6/07

02/01/2008

If there is a delay exceeding 5 days, from the publication date, the advertisement will be free of charge.

Coverage: • P.R.E. breeders and aficionados throughout the world, several copies will be distributed to each of the existent breeders’ associations, for them to redistribute to their members. Frequency: • Bimonthly, 6 issues per year

2007 Prices Type

General Price €

Price to Breeders €

Inside page

950

760

• Reader loyalty

Double page

1,950

1,560

• Mailed directly to the home, thus guaranteeing the loyalty and continuity of the readers, at the same time as making it easier to access the publication.

Inside Front cover

1,250

1,000

Inside Back cover

1,150

920

Back cover

Discounts: • 20% to breeder-members, when their own company is not advertised • 5% to associate members, not applicable to the publicity-report of stud farms because this is exclusive to breeder-members. • An additional 10% for contracting publicity in 3 issues per year. • An additional 5% for contracting publicity in 6 issues per year. • PUBLICITY-REPORT: 3 pages about the stud farm, illustrated with photos. Limited to one per issue.

228 164

ANCCE ANCCE

1,500

1,200

Half page

600

480

Quarter page

400

320

Flap/Column

200

160

Short Advertisement (Block)

100

2,750

2,200

Publicity-report VAT 16% is not included Page size: 210*285 mm Agency discount: 10%

www.ancce.com www.ancce.com

www.ancce.es

CABALLOS P.R.E. DE CAPA NEGRA Y CASTAÑA

ATILA LVI Medalla de Oro y Mejor funcionalidad sección 10ª en Valdemorillo 2007 Medalla de Oro y Mejor funcionalidad sección 10ª en Pola de Laviana 2007 Subcampeón raza en Pola Laviana 20072006 COBRA DEde A 5,laCAMPEONA DEde ESPAÑA SICAB Medalla de Bronce sección 10ª en Camponaraya 2007

CASCABELA III

Medalla de Plata sección 7ª en Pola de Laviana 2007 Medalla de Bronce sección 7ª en Fecab 2007

FURIA XCV

Medalla de Plata y Mejores movimientos sección 1ª en Pola de Laviana 2007 Medalla de Plata sección 1ª en Valdemorillo 2007

Tfno.: 902 10 10 80 - 646 812 928 Email: info@yeguadavalle.es - www.yeguadavalle.es VALLE DE MENA Villasuso de Mena, Burgos (España)

www.ancce.es

CABALLOS P.R.E. DE CAPA NEGRA Y CASTAÑA

CASCABELA III

Medalla de Plata sección 7ª en Pola de Laviana 2007 Medalla de Bronce sección 7ª en Fecab 2007

FURIA XCV

Medalla de Plata y Mejores movimientos sección 1ª en Pola de Laviana 2007 Medalla de Plata sección 1ª en Valdemorillo 2007

Tfno.: 902 10 10 80 - 646 812 928 Email: info@yeguadavalle.es - www.yeguadavalle.es VALLE DE MENA Villasuso de Mena, Burgos (España)