British Dressage - Issue 4 2021 by British Dressage

British

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR BD MEMBERS | £5.00 | ISSUE 4 | 2021

DRESSAGE

New

horizons

# H A N D S F A C E S PA C E

CONTENTS & WELCOME.

DESIGNED AND PRODUCED ON BEHALF OF BRITISH DRESSAGE BY: Fellows Media: www.fellowsmedia.com e: mark@fellowsmedia.com t: 01242 259241 Fellows Media, The Gallery, Manor Farm Southam Lane, Cheltenham GL52 3PB Managing Director: Mark Brown ADVERTISE WITH US: For enquiries, contact Jacob Holmes e: jacob.holmes@fellowsmedia.com t: 01242 259249 SUBSCRIBE NOW: If you aren’t a member and would like to receive the magazine contact 01442 820580, bd@webscribe.co.uk or www.mysubcare.com CONTACT US: British Dressage: www.britishdressage.co.uk Managing Editor: Winnie Murphy e: winnie.murphy@britishdressage.co.uk t: 024 7669 8842 Content Editor: Jane Carley e: janecarley5@gmail.com t: 01926 645981 For the full list of BD Office staff, visit www.britishdressage.co.uk British Dressage, Meriden Business Park, Copse Drive, Meriden, West Midlands CV5 9RG Main switchboard: 024 7669 8830 Fax: 024 7669 0390 Executive: 024 7669 8844 Training & Education: 024 7669 8833 BD Youth/u21 International: 024 7708 7801/024 7669 8834 Membership, Horse Registrations & Results: 024 7669 8832/836 Quest: 024 7669 8908 Sport Operations: 024 7669 8827 Judges: 024 7669 8831 Senior International: 024 7669 8835 Para & International: 024 7708 7803 Fixtures: 024 7708 7804 Championships: 024 7669 8846 BD Shop: 024 7669 8830 – press 1 Finance: 024 7669 8838/841 Marketing: 024 7669 8819 Communications: 024 7669 8842/839 Sponsorship & web ads: 01608 676180 The views expressed by individual contributors are not necessarily those of British Dressage. Equally the inclusion of advertisements in this magazine does not constitute endorsement of the products and services by British Dressage.

29 – Bridle fit is as important as saddle fit for the horse’s comfort and optimum performance.

IN THIS ISSUE... 3 From the editor 5 News 7 Profile Greg Sims on bold moves and young horses

WELCOME

hat a happy day it was at the end of pril when we could fi nally celebrate dressage competition returning across ngland, Scotland and Wales. There’s no doubt the differences between the three nations in their approach to lockdown have been frustrating for us all, but we’re almost back to being fully open. ou’ve all certainly been making the most of your new freedom to travel, ride, compete and train, with numbers all on a steep upward curve, which is fantastic to see. The membership team has been busier than ever with questions from returning members and new starters around , of you have joined us since we got back underway so welcome or welcome back record number went down the centre line in pril and ay is e pected to produce even greater figures. The egionals and etplan quine rea estivals are nearing completion and spaces at the ive Star Winter Championships, from une to uly, are already fi lling up. any of you are also working on your summer qualifications under the revised ‘island points’ criteria before the season deadline of une, so it all adds up to a very busy period, whatever role you play in the sport. lans are progressing well for this year’s e ieu ational Championships, which will fi nally have its debut year at Somerford ark in Cheshire. The date is confi rmed as - September, so make sure it’s in your diary We’re just waiting to hear from government on spectator guidance before tickets go on sale, but when they do, we’ll be offering a C money-back guarantee so you can buy with peace of mind more information to follow. There may be some media speculation about whether the lympics and aralympics can continue as planned in Tokyo, but in terms of our operational and performance preparations it’s very much full steam ahead. To produce a horse to peak performance takes months of preparation, so until anyone tells the riders and support teams any different, the Games are very much on The ‘playbooks’ issued by the organisers, outlining the requirements needed to ensure the safety of all at the Games, show the lengths they’re going to for a C secure environment, so let’s hope we have the chance to put them into practice come uly and ugust. British

Winnie Murphy, Managing Editor, British Dressage

ON THE COVER:

Greg Sims and MSJ Found Schufro. Pic: Joanna Prestwich

DRESSAGE THE OFFIC IAL

MAGAZINE

FOR BD M EMBERS

| £5.00 | ISSUE 4 | 2021

12 Feeding for competition Keeping it balanced and legal 21 Cover up Combating the fly menace 29 Competition bridles A more tailored fit for every horse 36 Ask the expert Therapy chairs for riders 39 Sensory hairs Guidance on trimming ahead of rule change 40 Bodyzone Importance of the core 43 Earning the marks Part II of Jane Kidd’s series on key movements 51 Animal health brief Our new series starts with strangles 53 BD Action BDHQ updates and members’ benefits 55 Regional Activity Judge Training 58 Dressage Days Melissa Beer on moving on from Young Riders

New

horizons # H A N D S FA

C E S PA C E

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 3

JERSEY-Tek

THE GO ANYWHERE FLEECE

RUG COLLECTION

Jersey-Tek Fleece Rug 5’6” - 7’0” Navy, Burgundy & Grey - £44.95

British Dressage Full Page_New.indd 1

Available from all major LeMieux stockists

www.lemieuxproducts.com

20/04/2021 16:45

NEWS.

BRITISH DRESSAGE

NEWS RUBIN AL ASAD RETIRED One of the most successful British horses of recent years, Rubin Al Asad, has been retired from competition at the age of 19 following a long and illustrious career. Owned by the late Dr Wilfried Bechtolsheimer, his wife Ursula and daughter Laura Tomlinson, the German-born Hanoverian, known affectionately as Rufus, was partnered by Lara Butler after she started working for the family at

their Gloucestershire home. In 2015 they made their Grand Prix debut and chalked up their first international Grand Prix wins, at Wellington CDI in Florida. The big-moving Rubin Royal x Wanderbursch II gelding went on to earn an impressive CV of national and international successes. Their list of achievements includes FEI Nations Cup appearances and they were reserves for the 2016 Rio Olympics, the 2017 Europeans in

Gothenburg and the 2018 World Equestrian Games in Tryon. In 2018 Lara and Rufus were also crowned National Champions. Rufus and Lara’s final competitive appearance was at the LeMieux Grand Prix Championships at Hartpury last December. They went out on a high scoring just shy of 80% in the Freestyle.

Plans have been announced for the 2021 Quest championships, powered by Saracen Horse Feeds. Leaderboards and regional finals this year reflect the new BD regional structure across England, with new North & West, North & East, South & West and South & East areas and we’ve added more Quest Regional Finals. The 2021 Saracen Horse Feeds Quest National Championships take place at Bury Farm in Buckinghamshire from 28 – 31 October. Details of qualifiers can be found on the website.

British Dressage has launched a new series of freestyle to music tests written specifically for our bronze and silver para rider community, providing the foundations for international competition as well as giving riders a new aim. The tests have been developed by the BD Para Technical Committee as a bridge to the technically demanding FEI freestyle tests. You can now download these tests for free from the BD website free of charge.

FAREWELL TO SARAH WHITMORE It is with great sadness that British Dressage has learned of the passing of Olympian and leading trainer Sarah Whitmore who died peacefully on Saturday 27 March at the age of 89. From Edenbridge in Kent, Sarah played a huge role in the careers of many British riders, as well as competing at Olympic level herself, representing Great Britain at the 1976 summer Olympic Games in Montreal on Junker. She achieved 22nd place individually and eighth in the team competition alongside

Congratulations to Paul Logan and Hayley WatsonGreaves on the safe arrival of baby Elana on 28 April.

OLYMPIA RELOCATES

QUEST 2021 PLANS LAUNCHED

PARA MATTERS

BABY JOY FOR HAYLEY

Jennie Loriston-Clarke with Kadett and Diana Mason with Special Edition. She also was a member of the International Dressage Trainers Club and an international judge. Throughout her life, Sarah mentored and shaped young riders, starting with her beloved nieces Biz Womersley and Kate Brookes-Smith. She trained international riders such as Laura Fry, Clive Halsall, Paul Hayler, Vicki Thompson-Winfield, Julie Hugo, Rebecca Hughes and many more who worked for her at her farm, Hilders, in Edenbridge, Kent. She was a member of the

Olympia, The London International Horse Show’s 2021 edition will relocate to ExCeL London and take place from Thursday 16 to Monday 20 December 2021. The Olympia London venue in West Kensington, which has been home to the iconic horse show for the last 49 years, is currently undergoing a re-development plan.

International Dressage Trainers Club and continued to teach well into her 80s. The British Dressage Board and staff offer their sincerest condolences to Sarah’s family and friends. She will be greatly missed and warmly remembered by so many within the sport.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 5

NEW

POD

CAST

“Feed-related discussions with the experts” INCLUDING

Feeding as you increase workload Clinical issues: Gastric Ulcers https://baileyshorsefeedspodcast.buzzsprout.com

PROFILE.

WHAT dreams ARE MADE OF FOR A BOY NOT EXACTLY BORN WITH JODHPUR BOOTS ON HIS FEET, GREG SIMS HAS EMBRACED ALL THINGS EQUINE WITH REAL GUSTO. JO PRESTWICH MEETS HIM AT HIS SCENIC NORTH WALES YARD.

reg has had what seems a charmed run to the top, winning the coveted Young Horse Championship at the LeMieux National Championships with his four-year-old Waverley Dante in 2017 at the tender age of 23. But it is hard work, dedication and natural talent that have taken him from Stonehouse in Gloucestershire to the slopes of the Afon Conwy, ten minutes from the historic coastal town of Conwy in North Wales. To be fair, his mum Karen did ride as a child and it was a friend of hers who ran a local riding school who introduced the then ﬁve-year-old Greg to his ﬁ rst pony. “I was hooked straight away,” he says, “helping out at weekends and half term mucking out and generally doing everything as soon as I was old enough to earn extra lessons.” LEFT: GREG SIMS WITH WAVERLEY FELLINI, WINNER OF THE NOVICE GOLD TITLE AT THE LEMIEUX NATIONALS AND FIVE-YEAR-OLD CLASS AT THE YOUNG HORSE CHAMPIONSHIPS IN 2020.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 7

PROFILE.

TOP LEFT: NEW PROSPECTS ARE PRODUCED FOR YOUNG HORSE CLASSES ONLY IF THEY ARE READY. ABOVE: GREG USES LONGREINING TO DEVELOP THE HORSE’S BALANCE TO CARRY THE RIDER. ABOVE RIGHT: KARIN HOERNER AND DREAM CATCHER (DANKE SCHON) WITH HER FOAL BY L’ESPOIR.

By the age of 12 – after continuous badgering – his parents relented and bought him a pony. “The first one was a good steady pony who showed me the ropes,’ said Greg. “I joined the Minchinhampton Pony Club and went to rallies and competitions and was in my element.” It was a change of livery yard and meeting Rachel Cox that sowed the seeds of dressage in Greg. “She had a Small Tour horse and I was blown away by what she could do with him, so I finished my GCSEs and at 16 left school to ride. I did a couple of months on one yard and it nearly broke me. Through Rachel I was lucky to have the opportunity to train with world renowned trainers such as Conrad Schumacher and Emile Faurie. These opportunities really

added to my desire to make it in the dressage industry!” (new para) Greg’s first horse was a recently backed, but very novice five year old by Metall. “I’d always done young ponies and made my own so it was a natural progression to buy a youngster – it was all I could afford anyway. He was black with a big white face and socks, just what I wanted! Those youngsters taught me to stay on, feel their reactions and work with them.” In 2011, at the age of 18, Greg saw the Eilbergs’ advert for a working pupil. “I’d always admired Mike’s riding and the Eilberg family so I took the opportunity and ran with it,” he says. “My first job was de-cobwebbing the stables and I finished looking like one complete with spiders! I was with them for six years and

I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF MY TIME AT THE EILBERGS, IT WAS HARD WORK BUT GREAT FUN

8 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

wow, did I learn. Mike took me through the process of starting and training young horses and moving forward their education. I loved every minute of my time there, it was hard work but great fun. I learnt loads and the calibre of the horses was amazing.” The Eilbergs were a major step forward in his journey, and not only in his riding for it was there he met his partner Stena Hoerner, whose mother Karin bred Dornroeschen, dam of the mighty Farouche. This brought about his association with Waverley Stud and onwards to his home in North Wales. “I wanted a good young horse but the only way to afford one was to buy a foal and with the help of Karin and Stena that’s exactly what I did. The three of us looked at hundreds online but only went to see one.” This ‘one’ was Waverley Dante, bred not far from the Eilbergs at Sara Longworth’s Waverley Stud in Warwickshire. “Karin is a great judge of a foal. I loved the breeding: Dimaggio on a Fürst Heinrich mare so the reverse cross to that which produced Farouche. Sara let him loose in the arena, he

RIGHT TOP: PARTNER STENA HOERNER HELPS ON THE GROUND. CENTRE: LEADING MAXIMA DOWN TO THE SCENIC ARENA FROM THE YARD. BELOW: MAXIMA WAS PRODUCED FOR GRADING AS A THREE-YEAR-OLD, SO GREG IS TAKING TIME TO RELAX HER, INCLUDING LEANING OVER TO TACKLE A FEAR OF OBJECTS ABOVE.

was a real looker and I’d never seen anything move like him, especially in the canter so I bought him.” The horse stayed with Sara until he was a three-year-old and it was whilst going to handle him and then long rein and lunge him as he grew up that Greg got the job of starting some of her youngsters. Dante won the four-year-old title at the Nationals and was reserve for last year’s subsequently cancelled World Breeding Championships. Waverley Fellini won five- year-old title at the young horse championships in 2020. He also won the FEI selection class and was due to represent GB at the world breeding championships before COVID caused the event’s cancellation.Greg has been in Wales for three and a half years now and he says that the main trade off is travelling to compete. “Two local-ish venues are great, but the young horse qualifiers are all two hours plus. The upsides are the amazing views across the valley and beautiful Welsh countryside and some fabulous horses.”

“I felt it was the right time to think about a change. Stena had finished university in She eld and had moved back to Warwickshire. We were discussing starting our own business, GSH Dressage. I’d just won the young horse championship with Dante which was a great boost and well timed,” he reflects. “I was sad to leave the Eilbergs, The horsemanship and riding knowledge I gained whilst working for the Eilberg family, which I will be forever grateful for, really set me up for my future in the dressage industry.” That said, it was a scary move but Greg had Dante, two homebreds of Karin’s, numerous clients, and he has not looked back. “Once I’d started to think of going I talked it over with Mike. He’d taken me through the process of starting and developing the youngsters all the time I was there and it was him who said ‘you’ve the talent for it and there is a shortage of good people to do it’. He gave me the e tra confidence needed to make the decision.” BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 9

PROFILE.

ABOVE: TWO AND THREE-YEAR-OLD FILLIES BY REVOLUTION AND VITALIS, OUT OF DREAM CATCHER. BELOW: THE YARD OFFERS FABULOUS VIEWS OF THE VALLEY, AND GREG TAKES ADVANTAGE OF THE SURROUNDINGS TO HACK YOUNG HORSES.

“Because there is such a huge market for a good young horse I do think some people see the young horse classes as the end game. If I don’t think they’re ready to go they don’t go, it is as simple as that,” he says. “Some of the qualiﬁers are quite early in the life of a four-year-old and I think very carefully as to which I aim for those,” he adds. “One I have for this year, Maxima (Toto Junior/Apache), a KWPN owned by Claire Dutton, is aimed at the young horse classes. Claire bought her as a foal and she stayed abroad until she was graded as a three-year-

10 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

old. She came over here and it has taken her a long time to settle, she is lovely but having been produced to ‘flash’ at the grading it’s been a big step for her to learn to relax and soften. I’ve worked a lot with her, leaning over with a foot in the stirrup so she accepts things from behind are just everyday ‘stuff ’.” All the horses are lunged and long reined with Stena on the floor if necessary. “I want them to understand the principles of steering, stopping and going forward before they have to deal with the added challenge of balancing a rider,” he says. “You can’t expect

them to learn all that and carry the rider. I mostly long rein in the arena and once they have steering, change of rein and walking round and over poles than I’ll get on. “We hack them round the lanes when they are ready, always with a friend but I like to have the youngster in front as soon as they are ready so they learn to be brave and take the initiative. The other horse is there as a buffer. We are lucky to have the fields to ride them in, and can go down and walk alongside the river although it depends what livestock is in those fields.” Currently the stables at Tremorfa house are home to Waverley Fellini and Waverley Dante, plus clients’ horses and the next generation of Karin’s homebreds. Dream Catcher (Danke Schon/Flameur), a mare that Stena spotted in Germany, produced an impressive fi lly foal by the ‘in vogue’ L’Espoir this April. In theory she is for sale but Greg admits selling a fi lly goes against the grain, as any breeder knows! Dream Catcher’s two and three-year-old fi llies, by Revolution and Vitalis, look to be ‘superstars in waiting’. “It’s always a big step to move on from what has been successful,” reflects Greg on his decision to strike out on his own. “But it’s the best decision I could have made!”

British Equestrian Team Supplier

Victory LV No tachograph | No speed limiter | No plating, MOT after 3 years Fully collapsible High impact breast bar High impact composite panelspanels composite

Aluminium planked ﬂooring Low and inviting side side Low and inviting ramp with doors doors rampsafety with safety

High impact composite panels Fully collapsible Fully collapsible breastbreast bar bar

Fully collapsible breast bar

Low and inviting side ramp with safety doors Aluminium planked Aluminium planked ﬂooring ﬂooring

Aluminium planked ﬂooring

4,500kg

horsebox built on a brand new chassis

36 month hire for just £700 inc vat PCM, plus £3,900 inc vat initial rental

“I did a lot of research before buying our horsebox as I wanted something to not only last but to be reliable, economical and look smart. The Equi Trek Victory has met all of our requirements and Melfed always arrives at her destination relaxed and ready to give her best.” Tina Wingar & Seiont Melfed

0114 288 4411 • sales@equi-trek.com • www.equi-trek.com Victory *Quotation based on 36 month hire, £700 per month includes vat. Extra costs are insurance, fuel and RFL. Hire-Trek pays for servicing/MOT, warranty and breakdown cover/horse recovery, T&C’s apply. Vehicle shown may have optional extras not included at advertised price. Please contact Hire-Trek for full terms and conditions.

PHOTO: CAMILLE PETERS

RECIPE FOR

success YOU’VE BEEN WORKING HARD AT THE TRAINING, COMPETITIONS ARE BACK ON, BUT IS YOUR FEEDING REGIME READY FOR PURPOSE? HELEN TRIGGS TALKS TO EXPERTS ABOUT FEEDING FOR COMPETITION AND KEEPING WITHIN CLEAN SPORT GUIDELINES.

he return to competition, coinciding with the ush of spring grass, makes it a good time to look at your horse’s condition and see if any amendment to his feed is needed. “Step back and take stock before rushing to give a competition mi , for e ample,” says i ie rury MSC utr( nimal) nutritionist for Saracen eeds. “It is better to increase the training and work level first if your horse is carrying too much weight.” “The horse needs a proper balanced diet or will get increased muscle soreness, not recover correctly and his ability to get stronger will be inhibited. chieving the correct body weight will make your horse able to cope with a longer competition

season. There are no shortcuts you can’t add e tra energy until you have the right body score.” ou can determine your horse’s current body condition by weighing or measuring with a tape and using the body condition score inde es available on the website of the major manufacturers such as Saracen and aileys orse eeds. epending on the work level and fre uency of training and competing, some horses can manage happily on good uality forage, grass and a balancer. thers may need their feed supplementing with additional calories once they reach their optimum body condition. eeding will always be a balance between achieving more strength and stamina and not promoting fi iness and over-enthusiasm. ne of the most important

LEFT: THE RIGHT DIET CAN HELP ENSURE THAT YOUR RETURN TO COMPETITION IS A HAPPY ONE.

12 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

FEEDING.

RIGHT TOP: SOME HORSES WILL DO WELL ON JUST GRASS, FIBRE AND A BALANCER. RIGHT BELOW: REMEMBER TO REPLACE LOST HYDRATION, PARTICULARLY THE ESSENTIAL ELECTROLYTES.

things you can do is to read the label on the bag, says Lizzie. “The information it contains will tell you what the feed is likely to do.” You can also contact the manufacturers’ nutritionist helplines where you can ﬁnd expert guidance. If you are looking for more energy, lift and presence in the arena from a laid-back or lazy horse, choose feeds where cereals come high up in the list of ingredients. To manage an excitable temperament, choose feeds with lower starch levels and higher levels of digestible ﬁbre and oils.

horses will be missing out on some essential nutrients, but also will have diﬀerent requirements for energy (calories) depending on workload and discipline. Thus, additional supplementation with a mix, cube or balancer is often necessary.” Kate Hore, RNutr(Animal) nutritionist, member of the BETA Feed Committee and senior nutritionist at NAF, says: “As we return to work it’s important to remember to replace lost hydration, particularly the essential electrolytes. Ensure daily salt is fed for all horses, and upgraded to full spectrum electrolytes

IT IS BETTER TO INCREASE THE TRAINING AND WORK LEVEL FIRST IF YOUR HORSE IS CARRYING TOO MUCH WEIGHT “In an ideal situation, you don’t want to change your feed drastically in the run up a competition,” says Lizzie. “You should just be tweaking and ﬁnetuning so you are supporting and ensuring optimum recovery after the competition. Make sure you top up his energy reserves.” “Our domestic horses are often stabled for lengthy periods of time with limited grazing and supplemented with hay or haylage, which varies in quality. We also put diﬀerent demands on our horses particularly for those who are competing regularly or working at a reasonable level,” says Emma Short, senior nutritionist for Baileys Horse Feeds. “This means that our

following hard work or travel. Feed electrolytes in water, or in a small amount of a well soaked feed, to ensure the water is replaced as well as those essential salts. “More than ever this year, we need to bring horses back to full ﬁtness gradually and carefully, as many return after a prolonged period of quiet work. Whatever your competition sphere, it’s advised to nourish joints with targeted nutrition to support the additional challenges of work. Joints are complex, so a single ingredient approach is never the full answer. Look for a synergistic blend of glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin, HA, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids to ensure all areas are supported.”

FEEDING.

ABOVE: TO AVOID FALLING FOUL OF ANTI-DOPING REGULATIONS, RESIST GIVING YOUR HORSE HUMAN FOODS AS A TREAT.

At the start of the season be aware of the impact of spring grass which can contain higher quantities of soluble carbohydrates. Regulate concentrate feeds so that your horse does not get a starch overload, while increasing his activity to use up the additional energy. Whatever feed regime you decide on, be aware that the ingredients must be acceptable within the guidelines of Clean Sport. This is the initiative run by the UK’s Anti-doping Agency and by participating in the sport you must adhere to its regulations. nce you a liate to compete, you need to be prepared to be tested and must be careful about the feeds you use and the procedures you follow. Testing for prohibited substances and controlled medications can take place at any level of British Dressage and is carried out in accordance with the British Equestrian Federation Anti-doping Rules (BEFAR). The onus is on the rider to ensure they are compliant. The starting point is the BETA NOPS scheme which lists the feeds and supplements that are audited to meet the anti-doping regulations. “This scheme gives you the best assurance that you are feeding safely, although of course there is never a 100% guarantee,” says Kate Hore.

NAF Feeds has produced a Feed and Supplements Log Book in association with equestrian sporting bodies so you can keep track of the content of your feed and its provenance. Products and accompanying batch numbers are recorded, which demonstrates good practice and can provide supporting evidence in the event of a testing failure. The same rules apply for herbs and supplements which must comply with Clean Sport regulations and any product should be checked on the BETA NOPS database. “It is common for people to believe that because an ingredient is natural that they are also safe to feed to our horses,”

A GOOD GUIDE IS NOT TO FEED YOUR HORSE HUMAN FOOD AS TREATS says Emma Short. “Some herbs are toxic when fed in larger amounts or can provide too much of a particular nutrient. As with any feed ingredient when not fed or processed correctly even an ingredient deemed safe with positive eﬀects may also have the potential to cause negative side eﬀects.” Those competing at international level become used to ensuring that nothing is fed to or applied to their horses which could be deemed to be doping. But for those competing at any level, such vigilance is important. “A good guide is not

to feed your horse human food as treats. After all you don’t know what goes into Polos!” says Kate Hore, who also recommends avoiding other human products. “It’s understandable why people use nappy rash cream or human shampoos but it’s not advisable.” These products may contain ingredients, even in miniscule quantities which are on the banned list and which today’s sophisticated testing can detect. It’s very easy to check which substances are not allowed on the FEI database. Just doing a little homework could avoid elimination, ﬁ ne or ban.

COMING UP ROSES Elite Equine is a new BD sponsor and their organic rosehip powder is part of the BETA NOPS scheme. Rosehip is a source of vitamin C, and has been shown to reduce inflammation, protect cartilage and improve general health. “It is important to assure all riders that a natural product, especially from halfway across the world, is safe to feed,” says Maxie Hepell, Head of Business Development. “We had to go through a lengthy process to achieve our BETA NOPS accreditation. The rosehips used in our supplement are handpicked from high in the mountains of Lesotho in Southern Africa, so getting an independent auditor out to this remote area of the world is not only hugely expensive but a logistical marathon! But the BETA NOPS and other international accreditations we (and other brands) display are there to help riders choose their supplement of choice safely.” RIGHT: ELITE EQUINE’S ROSEHIP POWER HAS RECEIVED BETA NOPS ACCREDITATION AND IS SAFE TO FEED TO COMPETITION HORSES.

14 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

NEW RE-LEVE -CUBES ®

ESTABLISHED ON RESEARCH · FORMULATED ON SUCCESS OPTIMAL MUSCLE HEALTH

GASTRIC HEALTH

WHOLE CEREAL FREE

OPTIMUM STAMINA

SUITABLE FOR HORSES & PONIES PRONE TO EQUINE GASTRIC ULCER SYNDROME

HIGH FIBRE LOW IN SUGAR (4.5%) LOW IN STARCH (9%) PERFORMANCE CUBE

BLACKCURRANT FLAVOUR – TO TEMPT EVEN THE FUSSIEST OF FEEDERS WORKING WITH

Certification Mark

Suitable for equines prone to gastric ulcers as part of a balanced diet

16 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

PRODUCT WATCH.

ROWEN BARBARY FORAGE ‘N’ FIBRE contains a natural blend of forages and fibres to help provide the horse with all the necessary nutrients required for health and vitality, whilst keeping energy levels low. Cereal-free and very low in starch and sugar it is ideal for feeding to horses prone to nervous and excitable behaviour, along with those with metabolic problems. High in fibre it helps support gut health and contains a touch of soya oil for skin and coat condition. RRP £11.86 FOR 20KG | rowenbarbary.co.uk

NATURAL FEEDING

PRODUCT

WATCH

METASLIM is a carefully formulated balancer, designed to support good-doers and those prone to, being treated for, or recovering from laminitis. Created with a leading equine vet, MetaSlim optimises blood sugar levels and aids insulin effectiveness. Suitable for overweight equines and those with fat pads and crests.

CHESTNUT BULK BINS provide highquality nutrition delivered direct to your yard in a unique bulk bin system. At the heart of the business is the quality of their products and its environmental impact. Chestnut bulk bins deliver within a set area from their base in Leicestershire whether you have one horse or a yard full to manage, to help reduce plastic waste and provide balanced, high quality nutrition to meet your horses' needs. RRP DEPENDENT ON FEED facebook.com/ChestnutHorseFeeds/

RRP FROM £35 FOR 10KG | simplesystem.co.uk

NAF FIVE STAR OPTIMUM Feeding NAF’s Five Star Optimum concentrated feed balancer will optimise every horse’s daily diet, and the concentrated formula is perfect for your horse, from family pony to performance athlete, making it the optimum choice for all. Each concentrated palatable pellet contains key ingredients to optimise gut function, combined with optimum nutritional supplement specification which perfectly balances either a high fibre, low concentrate or performance diet. When a daily feed is not necessary, Optimum can be simply given on its own. RRP FROM £29.99 FOR 3.7KG naf-equine.eu/uk

ELITE EQUINE contains only 100% organic rosehip powder, no additives or preservatives, and is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidative action. Horse owners have reported marked improvement in pain and discomfort from arthritic conditions, respiratory tract infections and coughing, swelling and heat in limbs, unhealthy gut and dull coats. RRP £38 FOR 1KG eliteequineuk.com

THE BETTALIFE® equine range includes PharmaQuin Joint Complete HA, PharmaPlast Ultimate Topline, and PharmaTRAC Total Digestive Support, offering high specification supplements for joint health and mobility, muscle and coat health, and digestive tract support. All supplements contain zero artificial fillers or bulking agents and use only the finest active ingredients. The Bettalife® equine range is rated five stars on Trustpilot and all products are available with a 100% money back guarantee. Bettalife® supports the Clean Sport initiative and a full list of ingredients are available to view on the website. RRP PHARMAQUIN £67.50 1KG PHARMATRAC £39.99 1KG PHARMAPLAST £39.99 750G bettalife.co.uk

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 17

PRODUCT WATCH.

BAILEYS ALFALFA BLEND is a unique combination of alfalfa and green oat straw, with a dusting of mint and a light coating of oil and molasses. The green oat straw is softer, more palatable and more nutritious than mature oat straw and is grown in the UK especially for Baileys. Alfalfa Blend can be added to the recommended amount of a mix, cube or balancer, encouraging chewing and adding fibre to an existing balanced diet, and can also be fed in larger quantities as a partial forage replacer. RRP £14.50 FOR 18KG | baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

SARACEN HORSE FEEDS RE-LEVE®-MIX No oats, no wheat, no barley. A cereal-free, alfalfa-free, low starch mix that utilises fibre and oil sources to optimise power generation and recovery. The mix is suitable for horses prone to Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome and includes a live yeast and BMC™, a natural mineral source, which has been proven to support the gastrointestinal health of horses as it buffers excessive acid in the stomach and hindgut. In addition, the mix includes a natural Vitamin E to maintain normal muscle function and support immune health.

BSC-SEABUCKTHORN is a palatable, natural plant extract that provides complete support for gastro-intestinal health. It is rich in antioxidants and Omega oils -3 -6 -7 and -9, as well as being an effective prebiotic. BSC-SeaBuckthorn nourishes the delicate tissues that line the stomach and intestines, supporting healing and natural mucosal defence against acid wear. In the hindgut, SeaBuckthorn favours the growth of healthy bacteria, helping to improve digestive health and efficiency. Nupafeed are proud to work with the British SeaBuckthorn Company (BSC) to ensure quality and traceability. RRP £70 FOR 5 LITRES | nupafeed.co.uk

SPILLERS™ SHINE+ CONDITIONING MIX is a reduced starch, high oil mix which has been carefully formulated with natural ingredients to promote condition and topline in horses prone to weight loss, while reducing the risk of excitability. Added oil enhances coat condition and show ring shine and provides a careful balance of energy sources to build condition safely.

RRP £18.31 FOR 20KG saracenhorsefeeds.com

RRP £15.49 | spillers-feeds.com

TOPCHOP GRASS is a soft and natural product made from a blend of specially selected, dried British grasses with a light dressing of linseed oil. TopChop Grass contains no added molasses or any other sugar coating. It is ideal for horses and ponies needing a soft, very palatable chop, perfect for fussy feeders including fit performance horses and elderly horses. TopChop Grass can be used as a partial hay replacer, especially for elderly horses struggling to maintain condition as a result of poor dentition reducing their ability to chew hay/haylage. RRP £13.75 FOR 15KG | topspec.com

18 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

Westgate Laboratories POSTAL WORM COUNTS & TESTS ASSOCIATE MEMBER

ASSOCIATE MEMBER

• SAME DAY to testing • Easy use andtesting results • Same day • FREE vet&approved results from our • FREE,advice vet approved friendly advice fromSQPs our friendly SQPs

Ser v

ice R

ated 150 r eview s

Great Value Season Packs

Subscription Service

Everything to target redworm, roundworm and tapeworm control for one horse for one year. £69.90

A complete, bespoke test based worm control programme for your horse from £6.50 pcm.

tests you can trust to target parasite control

Discounts for multiple horses, commercial rate for yards of +10 horses.

Worm count every 12 weeks, contact us

ths

Tapeworm test every 6 mon

01670 791994 info@westgatelabs.co.uk | www.westgatelabs.co.uk

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 19

Outstanding Results #FedonTopSpec

Everdale, competing in Amsterdam, ridden by Lottie Fry and owned by Van Olst Horses.

“At Van Olst Horses we aim for the best. In TopSpec we have a top partner. Their quality food and expertise is a great help in getting our horses in top shape to achieve our targets.” Anne Van Olst

Typical Feed Reg im

Photograph by Petra Kerschbaum

e for a 17hh (600 kg) horse in m edium to hard work:Ad lib good qu ality hay or hayla ge, plus grazing Plus two feed s per day - each containing:• 300g TopSpe c Comprehensiv e Feed Balancer (for condition; muscle developm ent and topline, performance; re covery; hoof qu ality; behaviour ; dige stion and utilisat ion) • 300g TopCho p Spor t (combi nes British alfalfa with a bl end of British gr asses, lightly coated wi th linseed oil) • Up to 2kg TopS pec CoolConditio n Cubes (‘Non-H eating’ Conditio ning Cubes quantity adjusted accord ing to condition) ®

Multiple Award Winner for ‘Excellence in Nutritional Advice and Customer Service’ 20 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

Collect

CREATED WITHOUT COMPROMISE

01845 565 030 (062) 85401 www.topspec.com

Tokens

for product and merchandise

by experienced equine nutritionists #FedonTopSpec

Redeem your TopSpec tokens at www.topspec.com/tokens

FLY PROTECTION.

NO ﬂies ON US

WITH MYRIAD FLY RUGS AND MASKS AVAILABLE ON THE MARKET, STEPHANIE BATEMAN DISCOVERS THE LATEST TRENDS IN DESIGNS AND MATERIALS TO ENSURE THEY NOT ONLY FIT WELL BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY REDUCE FLY IRRITATION.

arm sunny days bring about an abundance of annoying ying insects and they love nothing more than to irritate our horses. We’ve all witnessed the joy (or sheer frustration) of turning our horses out in full y-defending regalia, only to fi nd them either totally naked from shimmying out of the gear, or with rubs galore once the items are removed. So, what are the best materials, colours and designs to go for and how can we ensure they stay in place and don’t rub? “Studies have shown that insects are attracted to low re ectance wavelengths, in other words the brightness of an object created by light being re ected, absorbed or emitted. This means that -re ecting surfaces such as glossy or bright colours repel ies better than dark, matte fabrics,” e plains Sally hodes of remier E uine. “ hile traditional mesh y protection is still highly effective in keeping your horse cool and comfortable in summer months, we have seen an increase in more technical, tighter woven fabrics to the market of late.”

This type of fabric features in products such as the Super ite ly ug, designed to offer a more lightweight and breathable alternative to the traditional mesh rug. “The re ective properties of the lightweight nylon construction also provides protection, which means the fabric will re ect the sun’s energy and keep the horse’s coat cool,” adds Sally. “Its 1 nylon construction also gives this rug superior strength and durability, engineered to last for many seasons. air this with the uster ly Mask tra to give you total head to tail protection.” ABOVE: FLIES CAN CAUSE MISERY TO HORSES IN SUMMER, WITH FINE SKINNED AREAS SUCH AS THE FACE PRONE TO PARTICULAR IRRITATION. RIGHT: MODERN FLY RUGS OFFER A MORE LIGHTWEIGHT AND BREATHABLE ALTERNATIVE TO TRADITIONAL MESH MATERIALS.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 21

FLY PROTECTION.

or horses who suffer from sweet itch, the oett lanket provides a totally effective barrier against insect attack and prevents the typical allergic reactions. The fabrics used are breathable and water repellent but have a ‘parasol’ effect said to allow vitamin to be absorbed by the horse. There are different si e options which means you can get the closest to a perfect fit to help prevent rubbing.

FACE OFF ly masks are designed to not only protect your horse’s eyes from attack by fl ies, but also to stop harmful rays from damaging delicate pink skin around the eyes and mu le. “We have noticed that horses are now wearing fly masks for longer periods of time in the good weather, meaning that comfort, fit and security need to be top priority when designing,” says oe radley of e ieu . “This year we have introduced some new materials to our fly masks such as the esh abric for ultimate breathability and airflow over the face, as well as a lycra stretch fabric for unrestricted comfort and freedom over the horse’s sensitive facial muscles and nerves.” ye darts are an e tremely important design feature for the mask and need to have a generous ‘stand-off ’ over the face to avoid eye irritations and provide ma imum visibility and protection for the horse. “We always use a quality mesh which is both fi ne enough for good visibility yet robust enough to withstand everyday use, as well as providing all important and fly protection,” adds oe. “ ur customers’ favourite e ieu design features include the handy forelock slit to avoid rubbing and increase stability, super soft bamboo strips over the nose and brow in our Gladiator and rmour Shield asks and an elasticated head piece and throat strap for a close, comfortable fit.”

FLY MASKS ARE DESIGNED TO ALSO STOP HARMFUL UV RAYS FROM DAMAGING DELICATE PINK SKIN AROUND THE EYES AND MUZZLE 22 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

ABOVE: FLY MASKS PROTECT FROM BOTH INSECTS AND UV RAYS BUT MUST FIT WELL AND BE MADE OF SUITABLE FABRIC IF USED FOR LONG PERIODS. LEFT INSET: TIGHTLY WOVEN FABRICS SUCH AS THOSE USED IN THE BOETT BLANKET PROTECT HORSES WITH CONDITIONS SUCH AS SWEET ITCH THAT MAKE THEM ESPECIALLY SENSITIVE.

GETTING THE BUZZ… Education manager at Areion Equestrian Sue Hurford says: “I use the Horseware Aussie All-rounder as an all-purpose summer and fly rug. It keeps them cool, clean and somewhat protected from the flies. As long as it is well-fitted, it won’t rub.” “I use a fly rug for the evenings and early mornings when the flies are at their worst,” says Katie Blatchford. “My horse has a fly mask every day during the summer but mainly because it has a UV nose guard to protect his sensitive nose.” Liz Daniels has a pony with mild sweet itch and her advice is to: “wash rugs regularly (have at least two so one can be used while the other is washed) to stop grease/dirt rubbing the mane and shoulders, and start using them as soon as it gets towards double figures as that’s when the midges start to hatch. Prevention is so much better than cure.” “We use the lyrca pull-on fly masks as they don’t rub,” says rider Lyndall Kramer.

Widely recognised as the place to buy & sell horses

RREADY TO GO GP

Exclusive 10% BD Discount: BDM10

www.horsequest.co.uk

SUPERB PSG

CLASSY DAVINO GELDING

EXCEPTIONALLY BEAUTIFUL 5 YO MARE

STUNNING 7YO GELDING

4YO READY TO GO UP THE LEVELS

SUPER FEI PONY

AVA IL A BL E O NL INE A ND AT STO C K I STS NATI O N W I D E

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 23

24 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

FLY PROTECTION.

ABOVE: A WELL-DESIGNED FIELD SHELTER CAN OFFER HORSES USEFUL PROTECTION FROM INSECTS AND ARE MORE LIKELY TO BE USED BY THEM IN SUMMER THAN WINTER. RIGHT: THE H-TRAP CAN HELP TO CONTROL HORSEFLY NUMBERS IN THE YARD OR FIELD.

FOR THE FIELD A well-designed field shelter – the larger the better to encourage air circulation – plus protection from trees and bushes can help the horse cope better with the attentions of fl ies. Herefordshire-based Emma Wilesmith comments: “My horses use their field shelters more in the summer than the winter purely to get away from the fl ies.” Horsefl ies cause particular distress in the early summer, and in some years can make sensitive horses virtually unrideable while they are at their worst. Fly traps such as the H-trap horsefly trap can be used to help control their numbers on the yard and in the field. The shape of the large black ball mimics an ideal target for biting female horsefl ies and they are ‘tricked’ into mistaking the trap as a large animal. The ball absorbs heat from the sun and the fl ies are then attracted to the heat when emitted.

Once they land on the ball, they will try to bite it and when they fail to obtain a blood feed, they fly upwards, where they are caught in the funnel and guided into a centrally placed collection chamber. Horsefl ies breed in damp ground, so to maximise horsefly interception, identify their likely fl ight paths from damp areas such as around ponds and riverbanks to where humans or animals congregate. Place the H-traps early, preferably just before the fi rst adult horsefl ies emerge in April/May.

STRIPES BEFORE MY EYES Fly rugs sporting zebra stripes have started to appear on tack shop shelves in recent years. While they may appear to be a gimmick, there is science behind the unusual pattern. A study by wildlife biologist Tim Caro et al in 2019 looked at the benefits of zebra stripes in preventing fly irritation in horses. Observations showed that fewer horsefl ies landed on zebras than on plain-coloured horses. The fi ndings indicate that, up close, striped surfaces prevented fl ies from making a controlled landing. Similarly a striped rug seems to prevent horsefl ies landing on the domesticated horse. BELOW: SCIENTISTS FOUND THAT HORSEFLIES WERE UNABLE TO MAKE A CONTROLLED LANDING ON ZEBRAS, HENCE THE TREND FOR STRIPED FLY RUGS.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 25

PRODUCT WATCH. PRODUCT

WATCH

FLY PROTECTION BOETT BLANKET AND HOOD is designed to form a close-fitting barrier to protect from biting insets that cause sweet itch. Both are made from unique, tough, breathable fabric that is treated with a water and grease repellent. It comes in two parts – the rug with integral neck and adjustable belly shield. There are 17 sizes and three colours available. RRP BLANKETS FROM £165.50, HOODS FROM £63.57 itchyhorse.co.uk

FIELD RELIEF FLY RUG is a unique rug that offers ears to tail coverage with a yellow lightweight mesh designed to help repel flies. It features UV protection, anti-rub lining on the neck, withers and chest, adjustable straps for the neck, chest and belly as well as a stretch hood and long tail flap to ensure maximum coverage. RRP £95 | equilibriumproducts.com

STORMX FLY RUG in zebra print by Hy Equestrian is designed to protect your horse from annoying flying insects. The black and white stripes confuse insects so they steer clear while the breathable mesh fabric prevents the horse from overheating. An integrated neck cover and large tail flap offers added protection. RRP £39.99 | hy-equestrian.com

NAF OFF DEET POWER PERFORMANCE All day protection against flies and insect menace. Available as a spray or gel. RRP FROM £14.99 750ML SPRAY / £16.99 750ML GEL naf-equine.eu/uk

LEMIEUX BUG RELIEF LYCRA MASK Made from a soft, four-way stretch lycra, the LeMieux Bug Relief fly masks provide a close and comfortable fit with an average UV protection of 75%. Anatomically shaped for security and comfort, the pull-on design also minimises the chance of rubbing, while stopping any of those pesky flies getting up and under the mask. Bug-eye darts maximise freedom and visibility, giving a generous stand-off over the face. Breathable mesh ears and extended nose section give extra protection from irritating flies and midges. Forelock slit for increased comfort and security. Available as a half or full mask in sizes XS to XXL. RRP FROM £14.95 | lemieuxproducts.com

ULTRASHIELD® FLY CONTROL RANGE

LEMIEUX GLADIATOR FLY MASK is super tough

from Absorbine features the UltraShield® Insecticide and Repellent for the ultimate control, protecting your horse’s environment from irritating insects. UltraShield® Fly Masks are available in various sizes to help keep your horse cool and comfortable, with structured eye darts and mesh blocking 80% of UV rays. The all-natural UltraShield Green body spray has a fresh, herbal aroma to comfort and soothe horses during the summer months.

and durable whilst offering complete comfort for your horse. Black UV protective mesh is ultra-strong making this mask perfect for turnout, and the dark colour blocks harmful UV rays. A generous fit over the eye darts, which give a stand-off over the face, along with soft breathable bamboo lining strips across the brow and nose helps to prevent rubbing and ensures clearance across eyes. Grey 3D Carbon Mesh upper allows for plenty of airflow to keep your horse cool and the elasticated head piece and throat strap allow for a close firm fit. Available as a half or full mask in sizes S to XXL.

RRP FROM £25.03 absorbine.co.uk

26 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

RRP FROM £32.50 | lemieuxproducts.com

MOTHER NATURE’S

MOST POWERFUL NEW

WOUND CARE.

Silver Honey™

The First & Only Combination of Natural Manuka Honey & MicroSilver BG™

Effective Barrier Against Harmful Bacteria.

REVOLUTIONARY WOUND CARE Day 1

Day 3

- Natural proven ingredients - Gentle on skin and tough on bacteria - Protects the skin’s natural microbiome These one-of-a-kind formulas moisturise and nourish to support new skin cells. So you’ll quickly see amazing results on minor wounds or tough skin conditions.

Silver_Honey_Print_Ad - British Dressage Mag 191 x 120 - Iss 4 May.indd 2

15/04/2021 12:02:13

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 27

High Quality Low in Starch & High in Fibre From Vitamin A to Zinc Fully Traceable Slow Release Energy

Ros Canter, World Champion.

28 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

COMPETITION BRIDLES.

A head FOR PERFORMANCE THE FIT OF THE BRIDLE IS AS IMPORTANT AS THE FIT OF THE SADDLE, BUT IS OFTEN OVERLOOKED. THROUGH SCIENTIFIC ADVANCES WE ARE BECOMING BETTER INFORMED ON THE EFFECT THAT THE BRIDLE HAS ON PRESSURE DISTRIBUTION AND ITS IMPACT ON EQUINE HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE, EXPLAINS SMS QUALIFIED AND CONSULTANT BRIDLE FITTER FOR THE BRITISH EQUESTRIAN WORLD CLASS PROGRAMME DIANA FISHER.

A ADAM FANTHORPE

reas of concern where high pressures can occur are the wing of the atlas, the base of the ears, the midline of the horse’s skull, the Temporomandibular joint (TMJ), lateral ridges of the nasal bone and either side of the ventral aspect of the mandible (base of jaw).

When ﬁtting a bridle, it’s best to start at the top of the head, working your way down observing the interaction with the bridle and these anatomical areas. Headpieces come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, although there is limited evidence on the eﬀect that the headpiece can have on a horse. Too large and it may displace (slip) and cause irritation

FITTING A BRIDLE TO THE HORSE’S SPECIFIC HEAD SHAPE CAN REAP REAL BENEFITS IN TERMS OF COMFORT AND PERFORMANCE to the horse. Too small and it may become tight and create an imprint directly behind the horse’s ears which could lead to discomfort.

SKULL SHAPE If a horse is over-developed in the regions of the wing of the atlas area, this can have a profound

inﬂuence as to how a bridle will sit. The conformation from the wing of the atlas to the skull can present quite a narrow channel and if the headpiece is too wide in this area with too much of a cut out around the ears, it can encourage it to slip forward and in extreme cases can even slip oﬀ over the ears. With this in mind

ABOVE: RESEARCH HAS HELPED US TO UNDERSTAND WHERE THE PRESSURES ARE UNDER THE BRIDLE AND HOW THESE PRESSURES CAN AFFECT THE MOVEMENT OF THE HORSE. BELOW: THE FIT OF THE BRIDLE IS AS IMPORTANT AS THE FIT OF THE SADDLE BUT IS OFTEN OVERLOOKED.

COMPETITION BRIDLES. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Lateral ridge of the nasal bone a narrower, straighter headpiece with a smaller cut out around the ears and the wing of the atlas may be a suitable option. However, the cut out around the ears is most important for the comfort of the horse – no matter how big or small it will help to distribute the pressure in that region. When considering the browband, the TMJ area, which is involved in movement of the horse’s head including chewing and swallowing, needs to be kept as clear as possible. The horse needs to feel unrestricted and comfortable in this area and a tight browband can create excessive pressure. Conversely, a browband that is too large can encourage more movement from the headpiece, which may irritate a horse over time. The main criteria in ﬁtting the cheek pieces is to ensure that the buckles are away from the TMJ area, preferably in line with the upper corners of the eye.

However, it is important that there is su cient distance between the buckle and the eye itself. Positioning the buckles on the middle cheek strap hole allows for future adjustment if required.

Wing of the atlas LEFT: AREAS OF

Ventral aspect of the mandible

HIGH PRESSURES

ON THE NOSE Irrespective of the type of noseband used, there are several factors which need to be considered in correct fitting as there is a complex network of veins, nerves and arteries travelling in all directions down the nose and under the jaw areas of the horse’s head. t is important to fit a cavesson so it is not touching the lower edges of the cheekbone: some horses don’t have a lot of space between the top of the lips and the bottom of the cheekbones and this should be taken into consideration, ensuring that the width of noseband does not interfere with the bit. The style of noseband is also significant it may be useful to have one that is cut back to give more room in this area.

CONCERN WHERE CAN OCCUR.

The noseband should be lined with soft padding ensuring there are no hard edges, especially in the medial margins of the nasal bone and underside of the mandible. f fitting a drop noseband, it is important to ensure that it is not too low. When fitting a grackle noseband, the rings should be positioned on the fleshy area of the head and the straps which

Research has helped us to understand where the pressures are under the bridle and how the pressure can affect the movement of the horse, but more studies are needed to further our understanding. We are currently seeking to quantify the structural asymmetries of the horse’s head and how this may affect the static and dynamic fit of a bridle.

THE ADVANCES IN RESEARCH AND THE INTRODUCTION OF QUALIFICATIONS SPECIFIC TO BRIDLE FIT HIGHLIGHTS HOW IMPORTANT BRIDLE FITTING IS run over the cheekbones should be padded. Purchasing a full, cob or pony si e bridle off the shelf can have its limitations, the way forward for bridle fitters is to be able to fit with component parts and many more bridle manufacturers are now offering this.

BIT AND BRIDLE We also have to consider the relationship between the bridle and bit. Often trainers are asked if a change of bit would help the rider due to the horse resisting the rider’s aids but in some cases a diﬀerent noseband can produce a positive change in the horse. Sometimes it is about marrying the bit to the noseband and not just changing the bit.

Discussions between bridle makers, bridle fitters, biomechanists, veterinarians and physiotherapists are a key part of understanding the interaction between the bridle and the horse and the connection between horse and rider. The future is very exciting for bridle fitting. The Society of Master Saddlers has a new City Guilds ualified bridle fitting course up and running and there are currently eight S S ualified bridle fitters in the world. The advances in research and the introduction of qualifications specific to bridle fit highlights how important bridle fitting is for the welfare of the horse and for the enhancement of performance for the rider. This is hugely positive for equine welfare and performance.

LEFT: HORSES’ HEAD SHAPES CAN VARY WIDELY – THIS HORSE IS VERY BROAD ACROSS THE BROW AND DEEP THROUGH THE JOWL, WITH A NARROW NOSE AND NOT A LOT OF ROOM FOR A NOSEBAND.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 31

COMPETITION BRIDLES.

RIGHT: THE DESIGN OF THE NARROW VERSION OF FAIRFAX SADDLES’ PERFORMANCE CAVESSON ALLOWS IT TO BE FITTED WELL BELOW THE FACIAL CREST AND AWAY FROM THE CORNERS OF THE MOUTH, EVEN WHEN THE HORSE HAS A SHORT DISTANCE BETWEEN THESE POINTS.

RESEARCH IN ACTION Fairfax Saddles has been conducting in-depth scientific research using pressure mapping and gait analysis into the effect of both the fit and design of bridles. The fi ndings, along with the benefits of the resulting erformance ridle, have been published in a veterinary journal. “Our research focussed attention on the conformation of the horse’s head – something that hadn’t really been considered before,” says anessa airfa . “The head is no different to the rest of the body in that there’s a huge variety of shapes, si es and asymmetries out there. Taking the time to e amine each individual horse’s face, then fitting a bridle to his specific head shape can reap real benefits in terms of comfort and performance.” Take a look at your horse’s head from side on. Is his nose wider across the front than round the back? ot many horses have e ual noses and chins, but a traditional cavesson does not have the

adjustability to accommodate these differences. A horse who is large across the top of the nose will need a longer front section of noseband. cavesson that is too short across the top can drag the cheek straps and buckles towards the eyes or potentially rub the facial crest. bigger chin (deeper jaw) will need a longer back strap. This can only be achieved when the front and back section of the noseband are separate and interchangeable. The Fairfax Performance Cavesson is designed with different si ed front and back sections that can be selected to balance the noseband whatever the shape of the horse’s head. The noseband is correctly balanced when the rings sit half-way across the face viewed sideways on. ressure mapping identified a pressure one on the bony processes at the back of the jaw bone, so the airfa erformance Cavesson features a rolite-lined jowl pad in different si es so that it can sit centrally over the jaw bones, with an interchangeable jowl strap

FIT IN DETAIL Diana Fisher looks at a couple of bridles with the fitter’s eye BELOW: Headpiece looks bulky and tight against the base of the ears and the wing

of the Atlas. Buckles at the top of the head cause an increase in pressure underneath them. Also rolled leather reduces the contact area as it is narrower when running over the head and shows increased pressure. The cheek of the curb is very close to the cheek bone, TMJ and base of the ear. The noseband looks close to the bottom of the cheek bone, but it does have plenty of room from the cheek piece of the noseband to the cheek bones. The

32 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

that can be si ed so the buckle carefully aligns in the middle. cavesson should always be fitted well below the facial crest and away from the corners of the horse’s mouth, but when a horse has a short distance between these two points, a wide cavesson can be a challenge. Fairfax Saddles offers two depths of erformance Cavesson with a narrow option that can be useful for this anatomy,

particularly in a double bridle, and also for horses with a fine head. Both the narrow and standard erformance Cavessons fit in same way and both offer clearance either side of the nasal bone which is another area where Fairfax’s pressure testing identified a peak pressure one in commonly used cavessons. ■

back of the noseband lacks padding, and the strap tucked in at the back will be uncomfortable over the jaw bones. The bits are working correctly. RIGHT: Headpiece too big, the splits are too low sitting against the TMJ, throat lash is too long. The cutout for the ears is sitting too low, not at the base of the ear. The browband is sitting above the splits, which you should not be able to see. The noseband has no padding, looks quite bulky and hard, and in trials flash nosebands showed the most pressure of all the

nosebands from pressure at the bottom edge of the band, so it would benefit from soft padding. The buckle on the cheek of the noseband is sitting close to the cheek bone.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 33

34 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

PRODUCT WATCH. PRODUCT

WATCH

COMPETITION BRIDLES & TACK THE PHILOSOPHY SADDLE has a unisex saddle tree, revolutionary and structurally innovative, featuring the CPS concept (Coccyx-protection-system), a new injected-membrane geometry with differentiated capacity to absorb all stress and movement. This concept was conceived to protect the ischium bones, the coccyx and the back and it is visible through the soft Plexiglas inspection window that is on the lower part of the saddle.

BOOTS & BANDAGES AT DICLASS the horse boot specialists for all of your boot and bandaging needs this competition season. DiClass stock a wide range of quality brands loved by dressage riders, such as these Catago fleece bandages. Next working day delivery is free on all orders and you can save 10% when you buy two items with code SET10. T&Cs apply. RRP £24.99 SET OF FOUR | diclass.co.uk

RRP £POA | prestigeitaly.com

MATTES ANATOMIC GIRTH with a detachable lambskin cover is designed for horses with a well-defined girth groove. The girth is contoured a little at the front and back around the elbow area and the tough outer material and the highly functional lambskin are available in more than 30 different colours, with a choice of almost 50 shades for the decorative trim. RRP £148.50 zebraproducts.co.uk

BRANTFORD is a brand-new anatomical dressage bridle from Schockemöhle Sports, with a headpiece based on the well-known Equitus models. Due to its anatomical shape, the headpiece offers a lot of freedom for the ears and relieves the neck band. The noseband is softly padded, tapered to the sides and also has lined D-rings and buckles. RRP £235 | schockemoehle-sports.com

MATTES CRESCENT GIRTH is designed for 'round' horses with a short back and broad ribcage or narrow chest. The special shape works with the ribs so that the girth cannot slip forwards. The tough outer material and the highly functional lambskin are available in more than 30 different colours, with a choice of almost 50 shades for the decorative trim. RRP £148.50 zebraproducts.co.uk

MATTES ASYMMETRICAL GIRTH with detachable lambskin cover is designed for horses whose girth groove is closer to the elbows or less well-defined, where the girth tends to sit further forward. The girth is significantly contoured at the front around the elbow area. The tough outer material and highly functional lambskin are available in more than 30 different colours, with a choice of almost 50 shades for the decorative trim. RRP £148.50 zebraproducts.co.uk

MATTES ATHLETICO GIRTH is designed for horses with an athletic, wedge-shaped physique. The design of the girth prevents the saddle and girth from sliding back and the tough outer material and highly functional lambskin are available in more than 30 colours, with a choice of almost 50 shades for the decorative trim. RRP £148.50 | zebraproducts.co.uk

FAIRFAX PERFORMANCE DRESSAGE GIRTH is based on scientific research and it is proven to improve your horse’s performance by reducing pressure and significantly increasing range of movement and eliminating gait asymmetry. The girth’s patented design avoids the areas where peak pressure is commonly located. The combination of this contoured shaping plus the Prolite cushioning creates a unique buffer zone and prevents a ‘hard' edge that can block movement. Available in black or brown in standard gauge 22"-34" and in narrow gauge 20"-32". RRP £220 | fairfaxsaddles.com

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 35

ASK THE EXPERT.

ARE YOU SITTING

comfortably?

WE’VE ALL SPENT A LOT MORE TIME SITTING DOWN IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS, BUT THE LATEST THINKING ON CHAIR DESIGN COULD HELP AVOID PAIN AND STIFFNESS AND EVEN HELP YOUR RIDING,

EXPLAINS DAVID NEWBOUND OF BACK PAIN PRODUCT SPECIALISTS BACK IN ACTION.

ack pain is a common complaint amongst riders, yet many will conﬁ rm that they are far more comfortable when in the saddle on their horse than sitting at a desk or on the sofa. t’s time to challenge the common misconception that discomfort while sitting is caused by poor posture, when in fact the culprit is lack of movement. When you are on a horse your body is constantly moving, with your core working to keep you in position. n contrast, on most chairs, the lack of movement leads to the back muscles becoming weak and poorly co-ordinated. Circulation also drops, leading to poor soft tissue nutrition which is one reason why practitioners advise getting up and walking about frequently. When you do get moving, activities such as lifting a bale of hay can cause damage. or those who have o ce jobs as well as horses, the last months has e acerbated the situation as instead of going out to a meeting or moving to a diﬀerent room, much of the time has been spent at the computer. Working from home almost always means that your chair

CAPISCO PULS AND SWOPPER SADDLE questrian consultant Sam orrest and her o ce team tried out the Capisco uls and also the Swopper saddle chair, mi ing and matching between them to ﬁ nd the best individual choice. “We tend to sit for long periods when working on a project, so the idea of chair to create movement appeals,” she says. “ ne person found the Swopper hard work until she got used to it she’s young and doesn’t have much core strength. ut it’s a chair that you use little and often and then can see its beneﬁts.” avid says “The Capisco uls was designed to re-create the posture of a good rider. t puts the user in a balanced position that activates and develops their core and is designed for use in numerous sitting positions, from

36 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

may have been designed for a different purpose. inding a better chair that offers movement has become more important than ever. The ariable kneeling chair, for e ample see opposite , was designed to introduce poise to sitting by putting the knees lower than the hips, which reduced tension in the hips. t has knee pads but can be used with lots of different leg positions, each of which places the sitter on a rocking base to create variety and e ercise. The ariable doesn’t have a backrest, but there isn’t one on a saddle either, which should make us all question why we need one on a chair. erhaps the only e ception is where you are in a less active role, such as sitting back and listening on a video call or to a webinar, and for that rocking kneelers are available with a purpose-designed back rest. nitially, you may find the chair’s movement tiring, because your core muscles are being asked to engage more often, but after to days users become acclimatised. s your core strengthens, a rocking kneeling chair can be used for a full working day. ut it’s not the only option inding the right chair for your needs is key to getting the greatest benefits. Choose a supplier that will take time to learn about your lifestyle and physical requirements as well as your working habits and available space.

working at a computer to taking phone calls. The Swopper Saddle puts the user in a similar position to a kneeling chair but allows back and forward and up and down movement.” Sam e plains “The Capisco uls has a part padded and shaped seat so is very comfortable. While it encourages you to sit upright there is a back rest, but fi nd only use it occasionally. t’s very different to a normal o ce chair, and when went back to one, it felt awful, quite constricting broke my back show jumping years ago and fi nd that keeping mobile makes a huge difference. t gives me more natural core strength that makes riding my advanced medium horse much easier.” LEFT: THE SWOPPER TOOK A BIT OF GETTING USED TO BUT SAM FOUND IT BENEFICIAL TO HAVE MOVEMENT WHEN SITTING AT A DESK FOR A LONG PERIOD. ABOVE: THE CAPISCO PULS PUTS THE USER IN A ‘KNEELING’ POSITION AND SAM SAYS SHE FEELS AN IMPROVEMENT WHEN RIDING AFTER USING IT..

ASK THE EXPERT.

VARIABLETM CHAIR BD Membership Experience Manager Rachel Smith works from home several days a week, where she has a kneeling chair. “ ’ve got a standard o ce chair at BD HQ,” she explains, “But have been using a wooden dining chair at home. I’ve got long term issues with my hip and sciatica, and if I stand or sit for too long I get sore.” Rachel who competes at Medium level, got on with the kneeling chair straight away, she comments. “Within a couple of days I noticed less pain in my shoulders and neck from constantly using a mouse. It’s a cross between standing up and sitting down, so I’m not in one position and it encourages me to move.” ABOVE: RACHEL HAS NOTICED A REDUCTION IN NECK AND SHOULDER PAIN AFTER TRIALLING A KNEELING CHAIR.

ACTULUM VARIER Claudine Bichard, who is Carl Hester’s PA and competes at Elementary level, tried the Actulum Varier, which more closely resembles a conventional o ce chair with a backrest but has a ‘rocking’ frame to produce movement. “I’m up and down all the time, but can be sitting for a couple of hours at a time,” she says. “ ’d normally be in a swivel o ce chair or just a dining chair, and you do tend to stiﬀen up. ’ve had two children so my back goes easily!” Claudine reports that she found herself sitting more upright in the Actulum Varier. “It was nice to be able to move forward or backwards easily, and there was less temptation to slouch. I’ve even found this has continued when sitting in a normal chair.” She adds that the chair was a little snug around her hips, and would probably be drawn to a kneeling chair for a future purchase. “But I do feel that the Actulum Varier would be a good choice if you have to both type on a laptop and also sit back and watch or listen to information on screen,” she adds. LEFT: CLAUDINE FOUND LESS

HUMAN TOOL CHAIR AND BACKFRIEND CAR SEAT ADAPTER Daniel Bremner and wife Lucy Cartwright tested the Human Tool chair adapter and Backfriend car seat adapter. “Discomfort while driving is another common issue; car seats are designed for safety when braking or swerving, not for comfort. The Backfriend sits on top of the vehicle seat and connects the back and the seat cushion, supporting the pelvis and lumbar area,” explains David. Daniel comments: “Lorry seats are not that comfortable; the Backfriend puts you in a slightly better position. I’ve got quite a weak lower back, but I found I was slouching less; I arrive ready to compete without feeling stiﬀ.” He often drives for at least an hour either to teach clients or go to competitions, so the Backfriend has proved useful, he says. “The Human Tool is the saddle seat adapted for using with any chair and is portable – you could even put it on your sofa,” he adds. “I didn’t get on too well with the Human Tool,” admits Daniel. “I found a few issues with the male anatomy if you get my meaning! However, Lucy soon got used to it and found that the added movement meant she didn’t get sore if she had to sit for a long period. We tend to do entries and paperwork after a full day’s riding, and don’t have o ce chairs as such, so it’s useful to have an adaptation for a normal chair.” ABOVE: TACKLING PAPERWORK AFTER A LONG DAY IN THE YARD, LUCY CARTWRIGHT FOUND THE HUMAN TOOL USEFUL TO ADAPT A DINING CHAIR FOR AN IMPROVED SITTING POSITION. RIGHT: DANIEL BREMNER TRIED THE BACKFRIEND WHEN DRIVING HIS LORRY TO COMPETITIONS AND FOUND THAT IT PUT HIM IN A BETTER POSITION AND HE ARRIVED FEELING FRESHER.

TEMPTATION TO SLOUCH WHEN USING THE ACTULUM VARIER.

www.backinaction.co.uk

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 37

38 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

WELFARE UPDATE.

A sensitive SUBJECT NEW GUIDANCE ON REMOVAL OF SENSORY HAIRS COMES INTO EFFECT FOR COMPETITORS THIS YEAR. WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE FEI RULING AND WHAT IS BEHIND IT.

n line with the FEI ruling for 2021 that prohibits the trimming/shaving/ removal of a horse’s sensory hairs around the mouth, nose, and eyes, British Dressage has incorporated similarly worded guidance into the BD Welfare Policy this year. The FEI will formally impose sanctions on this ruling from 1 July 2021, which will result in disqualification from any event. However, this is advisory only for national competitions this year and British Dressage will not be introducing any sanctions currently. While we can still advise members not to remove sensory hairs in the interests of horse welfare, as stated by the FEI, it will not be a formal rule until our next full competition year in 2022. The BD Board and Sport Operations Committee will monitor the FEI position closely throughout 2021 to see how this rule is implemented before setting any national sanctions for 2022. In the meantime, our national stewards will observe sensory hairs as part of their checks at major fi tures and may offer guidance to competitors ahead of formal introduction of this rule next year.

British Dressage members who compete in international competitions will still have to comply fully with the FEI rule from 1 July 2021, including any sanctions placed on them in the event of contravention. The FEI rule states: ‘Horses are not permitted to compete in FEI events if… the horse’s sensory hairs have been clipped and/or shaven or in any other way removed unless individual sensory hairs have been removed by a veterinarian to prevent pain or discomfort for the horse.’ The rule book’s glossary deﬁnes ‘sensory hairs’ as ‘hard hairs located on the horse’s muzzle and around its eyes, also known as ‘whiskers’ that are used for sensation.’ Dr Madeleine Campbell, Royal Veterinary College’s (RVC) Senior Lecturer in Human: Animal Interactions and Ethics explains the thinking behind the move. “We’re reaching an ethical point of view which brings an increased awareness of sentient animals and the need to safeguard their welfare. There’s greater acceptance that we should not alter an animal’s appearance for cosmetic purposes.” Dr Campbell points to an increasing evidence base from other species of the

THE FEI RULE STATES: ‘HORSES ARE NOT PERMITTED TO COMPETE IN FEI EVENTS IF… THE HORSE’S SENSORY HAIRS HAVE BEEN CLIPPED AND/OR SHAVEN OR IN ANY OTHER WAY REMOVED’

detrimental effect of removing sensory hairs, and to research carried out at the RVC. A study by veterinary scientist Kata . eres y ki at the C into sensory thresholds on specific areas of the horse’s |head has suggested that removing sensory hairs may affect the horse’s ability to respond to stimuli by leading to numbness in the area. r eres y ki reports from the study, which was devised to help guide methods for sensory testing for use in veterinary treatment: “Despite the lack of statistically significant differences for tactile sensory thresholds between shaved and unshaved skin areas, thresholds of the shaved areas were subjectively higher. ur findings support the importance of hair coverage in tactile sensory function in equines and underline the potential disadvantages of clipping the facial areas for husbandry or cosmetic purposes.” Dr Campbell acknowledges that the trimmed appearance of the dressage horse has become a routine form of competition turnout but adds: “The benefit is purely cosmetic and does not influence performance so there is no clinical justification for trimming. We accept that competitors may have pragmatic concerns, for example that long muzzle hairs trapped under a noseband could be uncomfortable, but there’s no di culty in gently pushing the hairs out of the way, so they can be easily resolved.” ■ BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 39

BODYZONE.

FIRM

foundations A GRAND DESIGN IS ALWAYS BUILT ON FIRM FOUNDATIONS. IT’S A SIMILAR STORY IN THE SADDLE; WHILE A STRONG, INDEPENDENT SEAT IS THE KEY TO A GREAT DRESSAGE POSITION, AN UNSTABLE BASE CAN CAUSE THE UPPER BODY TO TILT, WOBBLE OR SLUMP, SAYS ANDREA OAKES.

ast issue we saw how a correctly centred pelvis forms the platform. This time we’re stepping up to the trunk, which serves as the second building block and sits neatly on top. According to biomechanics expert Dr Russell MacKechnie-Guire (centaurbiomechanics. co.uk), a level pelvis will allow these structural units to stack comfortably and in alignment. The trunk, or torso, can then sit tall, without effort, throughout all paces. If any area is weak or out of kilter, however, a cascade of asymmetries can occur.

WHAT CAN GO WRONG? “A common upper body problem is the sideways bend, where the rider collapses and shortens the rib cage on one side,” says Russell, who explains that a giveaway ‘C’ shape is often evident from the front or behind. “This could be because the pelvis shifts, but it is possible to have correct pelvic positioning and still collapse.” Unravelling the cause of upper body collapse can be challenging, says Russell, who explains that poor posture and daily habits such as carrying a bag over one shoulder can often be to blame. “It’s not always down to rider asymmetry,” he adds. “Horse movement and saddle slip can also contribute. Whatever the reason, shortening through one side creates increased forces under the saddle: on the same side as the lean if the collapse is solely through the torso, or on the opposite side if the pelvis shifts. 40 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

“This increase in pressure translates to the horse’s back, not only affecting horse-rider communication and the effectiveness of the aids, but also performance and e uine health,” says Russell. “These forces will occur every stride; consider how many strides a horse takes in a 45minute training session.” To straighten the torso, Russell suggests visualising two balloons that sit between your rib cage and the top of your pelvis, one on each side. The pressure in each balloon should be e ual. r imagine your rib cage as two springs, with the same distance between each part of the springs. As well as maintaining left-right upper body symmetry, it’s important to consider forward-back positioning. “Novice riders, in particular, tend to take the centre of mass forwards,” says Russell, who explains that causes can range from lack of confidence to the laptop lifestyle’ that promotes a forwards curve. “The horse carries 58% of his weight on his fore limbs and 42% on his hind, so increasing weight on the front end is not helpful in achieving a dressage frame. It will also restrict his forelimb movement and increase loading, contributing to wear and tear. “A rider may lean back due to core or trunk stability problems, in an attempt to anchor themselves to the saddle to absorb movement,” adds Russell. “There’s sometimes a mistaken belief that driving the horse forwards with pressure at the back of the saddle will help him to transfer weight onto his uarters. In reality, bringing your spine behind the vertical will result in over-arching, or ‘lordosis’, and could potentially give you lower back issues.”

RIDER ASYMMETRY WILL NOT GO UNNOTICED. IF A HORSE CAN FEEL A FLY ON HIS BACK, HE WILL CERTAINLY BE AWARE WHEN YOUR POSITION IS OFF CENTRE

BODYZONE.

An additional issue is rotation, where the trunk is upright but twisted. “Take a rider who twists to the left,” says Russell. “Since the horse moves in a counter-clockwise direction while cantering left, this could work. But ask the horse to canter right, with clockwise movement, and a rider twisting the other way will cause conﬂ ict. “The horse can end up falling away from the rider’s trunk rotation, in this case to the inside on a right circle,” he adds. “The rider typically grips with the knees and develops uneven rein tension in an attempt to follow the movement.” A common theme connects all of these upper body issues, explains Russell. “ rider needs to eﬀectively absorb the locomotor forces coming up from the horse, while maintaining dynamic stability,” he says, referring to the postural control required to stay balanced during movement. “Horse, rider and saddle should form a combined unit, but any asymmetry in the rider’s upper body will be compounded by these forces.

TRUNK CALL Address upper body issues with Russell’s six-point plan: 1. ADJUST Start with a secure base – a saddle suitable for both horse and rider, and stirrup leathers of an equal length. 2. IMAGINE Visualise a torch on your belly button and sternum. Are these ‘headlights’ pointing straight ahead, or is rotation in your trunk sending them off beam to the horse’s left or right ear? 3. REFLECT Use the school mirrors to see how you are sitting. Is one of your rib cage ‘springs’ shortening? Training jackets and symmetry marking tape will make unevenness easier to spot. 4. ASSESS Ride up the centre line, from the left and right rein, so a friend or coach can assess your upper body position. Check regularly, as this can change throughout the year and may even alter towards the end of a horse’s shoeing cycle.

“It’s something for riders at all levels to work on,” he adds. “I’m a big fan of regular physio and out-of-saddle exercise, such as Pilates, yoga and strength and conditioning classes, to identify any asymmetries and to improve dynamic stability.” Horses can be forgiving and will often develop a coping locomotor strategy to compensate for uneven riding. There’s no escaping the fact, however, that even the most subtle asymmetry will take its toll. “We noticed during studies that when we destabilised riders, by shortening one stirrup, a horse’s spine became unstable in trot and the loading increased on two of his limbs,” says Russell. “The horse may adjust, but it will affect his way of going and in the long term will leave him prone to overload injuries. “Horses like predictability, and during locomotion they want to move predicting what’s going to happen,” he adds. “Rider asymmetry will not go unnoticed. If a horse can feel a fly on his back, he will certainly be aware when your position is off centre.”

5. EVALUATE Your test sheets may reveal a trend for better marks on one rein or the other. The half pass is a classic movement for highlighting upper body issues. 6. STRETCH If you collapse to the left, take your reins in the right hand and stretch your left arm up to the sky. Hold that position for 20 seconds, lengthening the distance between each rib, then re-take the reins and see how it feels. RIGHT: USE SCHOOL MIRRORS TO SEE HOW YOU ARE SITTING.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 41

42 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

EARNING THE MARKS.

In this new series Jane Kidd will look at points that could earn or at least not lose marks for competitors. Fundamental to all the points are the basics. The majority of the marks are given for the rhythm, suppleness, contact, impulsion, straightness and at the more advanced levels, collection (the training scales)

ON THE TURN

ne of the ﬁ rst things learnt when starting to ride is to apply the inside rein to turn in that direction, yet the opposite is what keeps a horse in a better balance and more able to develop quality work. The application of the inside rein is how both horse and rider ﬁ rst learn to turn but the aim is to ride from the inside leg into the outside rein with a guarding outside leg and only a very light elastic contact on the inside rein. This is di cult for a rider to master, and takes time for horse and rider to develop, but to keep quality in the work this is the goal. t depends on the rider being able to give clear co-ordinated aids, including weight aids, at the same time as maintaining a balanced upright position. This is not achieved in one go but is a step by step process and it helps if riding a horse that knows the way.

“THE BASIC PRINCIPLES MUST ALWAYS PREVAIL AND THESE ARE TO FULFIL THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE TRAINING SCALE” LEFT: THE RIDER HELPING THE HORSE TO MAKE THE SHARPEST TURN OF ALL, THE CANTER PIROUETTE. THE BEND IS AROUND HER INSIDE LEG, SHE IS POISED, SECURE AND BALANCED IN HER SEAT AND TURNING WITH THE HORSE.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 43

EARNING THE MARKS.

For the untrained horse it is the same steady development of reaction to the aids and their coordination. To be able to keep the quality of the work through the turns is vital for good scores in tests. There are corners after corner as well as the circles, serpentines, loops, turns onto and oﬀ the centre line, onto and at the end of diagonals, ﬁgures of eight and pirouettes.

WHAT THE JUDGES ARE LOOKING FOR

• Straightness. Just as on a straight line the hinds should step towards or in the front hoof prints on the same side along the line of the turn. The aim is for no deviation of the hindquarters to the inside or outside. • Bend. This follows the line of the turn so there is little more than a ﬂe ion to the inside on a metre circle. As the turns become tighter, in order to follow the line there will need to be a uniform bend of the whole body centered around the riders inside leg. If the bend is achieved by using the inside rein so that the base of the bend is from the wither this will lead to the weight drifting onto the outside shoulder. This will then pull the horse to the outside and make it more di cult to turn. It is natural for the horse to go where the rider’s weight falls. • Fluency. Rhythm, suppleness, contact and impulsion have to be maintained to establish a ﬂuent movement. LEFT: IT IS IMPORTANT TO STAY STRAIGHT ALONG THE LINE OF THE TURN. IN THIS PICTURE THE INSIDE HIND IS NOT STEPPING TOWARDS THE HOOFPRINT OF THE FORELEG ON THE SAME SIDE BUT DRIFTING OUT.

44 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

59283 PRP Quarter Page Advert.qxp_Layout 1 10/01/2019 11:18 Page 1

THE ORGANISATION OF HORSEBOX & TRAILER OWNERS

STALLIONS 2019 Millennium

Easy Game – E.H. Ravel

Specialist Horsebox & Trailer Breakdown Cover

Hickstead White

Hickstead – Coupe de Coeur

Stakkato Gold

Stakkato – Werther

Bernay

Boston – Lord Loxley

' gue Order for catalo and video 32/80 38 80 Phone: +49 54

www.gestuet-sprehe.de

• • • • •

Gestüt Sprehe GmbH Neuekamp 1 D-49624 Benstrup Phone: +49 54 32 / 80 38 80

' '

01488 657651

Roadside Assistance / Repair Authorised Professional Horse Transport Vehicle Recovery Full UK Cover Optional European Assistance

www.horsebox-rescue.co.uk

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 45

BLOOMFIELDS HORSEBOXES

Built by Professionals for Professionals

46 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

www.bloomfields.co * +44 (0) 1623 869779

EARNING THE MARKS.

TIPS Horses are able to make sharper and sharper turns as their training advances so the circles may be 20 metres at Novice level but Grand Prix horses can make six-metre circles without losing the quality of their work. Thus in Preliminary and Novice tests, riders are wisest to aim for the arc of the corners being not much less than as in a 20metre circle. This will make it easier to maintain rhythm, suppleness and contact. At advanced levels the arc may be six metres, but at every level going deep into a corner when the training scales have not yet reached a su ciently high level risks losing quality and marks. In addition, a great opportunity is sacrificed as a correct corner, whatever the arc, engages and supples a horse, so helping to set it up for the next movement. Preparation: Vital to making a correct turn. The fi rst step is the half halt, the second is a little fle ion to just see the inside eye and to feel a light and elastic contact, the third is a transfer of weight onto the inside stirrup and saddle, without losing the upright posture and the position of the seat bones. Finally, while establishing the appropriate bend, to ride forward into the line of the turn and into the outside rein. When on the line of the turn, adjust the aids so as to be able to keep on that line and maintain the scales of training. Rider’s role: Be conscious of the rider position as there are forces that will make it di cult to stay central, poised, and turning with the horse. Until the position is secure it helps to keep looking forward to where the horse is going and through its ears. Any looking inwards tends to shift the weight to the outside (collapsed hip) and inhibit the ability of the horse to turn. Accuracy: Important but secondary to way of going. Before even getting on the horse study the lines of the turns asked for in the test, where to go to make a 15, 10 or six metre circle or loop, where a three or five loop serpentine will take you, what will be the track of a five metre loop off the long side or down the centre line. Accuracy helps to earn marks as long as it is not at the expense of the quality of the way of going.

PREPARATION IS VITAL TO MAKING A CORRECT TURN

RIGHT: TO HELP THE HORSE MAKE A FLUENT TURN, THE RIDER’S POSITION IS EVEN MORE IMPORTANT THAN ON STRAIGHT LINES. THE SEAT BONES NEED TO STAY CENTRAL IN THE SADDLE AND WHILE REMAINING UPRIGHT WEIGHT IS TRANSFERRED ONTO THE INSIDE ONE.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 47

EARNING THE MARKS.

TRAINING EXERCISES The Half Halt Developing this vital aspect of dressage is a progressive process. In training it can start by being able to make forward going ﬂuent transitions from trot to walk and back to trot. This means applying supportive aids with the legs and the seat and restraining but not pulling back with the reins. When the horse responds the rein, leg and seat aids can be eased before asking for a transition forward into the trot. ntil the horse understands, it may be necessary to use the voice, make a quick check with an outside rein to reduce forward momentum or a gentle massage of the mouth with the reins to prevent or reduce any tension. If the transitions go well then start asking for that downward transition and before the horse walks ease the aids to stay in the trot. The aim is that the horse remains ‘through’ when the aids are applied, that the weight is transferred back onto the hindquarters and the horse is in a better self-carriage and balance.

The actions are ideally barely perceptible so as the training progresses the aids can become increasingly momentary. Spiral circle Spiral in from a 20 metre to say a 12 metre circle on one track and then move back to the original circle on two tracks. As long as the horse steps sideways, almost straight with a slight ﬂe ion, this can help the horse and rider to understand the concept of moving forward from the rider’s inside leg into the outside rein. Lateral work The two earliest lateral movements, leg yield and shoulder-in, are based on that concept of riding from the inside leg into the outside rein and are helpful in improving the turns. earning to keep the position in a correct turn on the forehand is a good way of identifying and mastering the forces that take the rider out of position. nce again we get back to the importance of the rider’s position.

ABOVE: THIS RIDER IS SHOWING CLEARLY THE AIDS FOR A HALF HALT. HANDS RESTRAINING BUT NOT PULLING BACK, LEGS APPLIED AND SEAT AID MAXIMISED BY LEANING BACK A LITTLE, ALL TO BE FOLLOWED BY A RELEASE OF THIS PRESSURE. THE STRENGTH OF THE HALF HALT CAN BE VARIED FROM VERY LIGHT, BARELY PERCEPTIBLE AIDS TO STRONGER ONES, ACCORDING TO THE CIRCUMSTANCES. LEFT: TO AVOID PULLING BACK ON THE INSIDE REIN AND TO MAKE THE DIRECTION OF THE BEND CLEAR TO THE HORSE IT CAN BE HELPFUL TO MOVE THE HAND SIDEWAYS AS THIS RIDER IS DOING.

48 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 49

AT T E N T I O N TO D E TA I L I S S TA N DA R D.

S P E C I A L I S I N G I N 3 . 5 T 4 . 0 T 4 . 5 T 7. 5 T A L L H G V S

T E L 012 7 0 5 8 8 5 9 8 • C O O K E C O A C H B U I L D E R S . C O M •

50 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

DISEASE AWARENESS.

STRANGLES REDWINGS HORSE SANCTUARY

IN THIS NEW SERIES, WE’RE GOING TO COVER SOME COMMON DISEASES THAT AFFECT THE EQUINE POPULATION; HOW TO SPOT THEM, MEASURES TO PROTECT HORSES, AND HOW TO PREVENT TRANSMISSION. IN PART ONE, WE LOOK AT STRANGLES – A HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTION, WHICH AS ITS NAME SUGGESTS

CAN RESULT IN COMPRESSION OF THE HORSE’S THROAT.

treptococcus equi subspecies equi is responsible for strangles. The bacteria often infect lymph nodes around the jaw, causing swelling and di culty breathing. Whilst fatalities are rare, strangles can still be painful and debilitating. It’s one of the most challenging equine infectious diseases to manage.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS? Vary from mild e.g. slight nasal discharge to these more typical signs: • Depression • Loss of appetite/ di culty eating • Raised temperature • Cough • Nasal discharge, often thick and yellow • Swollen lymph nodes around throat • Drainage of pus from lymph nodes around jaw Incubation is between three and 14 days and most recover within six weeks. Roughly 10% remain carriers and can still transmit the disease.

COMPLICATIONS Occasionally, abscesses will develop within other organs. This is known as ‘bastard strangles’ and can be fatal. Another rare and potentially fatal complication is ‘purpura haemorrhagica’ which causes bleeding from the capillaries and ﬂuid accumulation in and around the limbs and head.

DIAGNOSIS Strangles can be diagnosed on clinical signs alone but often vets will take a nasopharyngeal swab for conﬁrmation. lood samples may be taken to identify not only infected horses but also carriers. Another method is guttural pouch endoscopy. Your vet will advise the most appropriate method.

TREATMENT Supportive care involving anti-inﬂammatories to lower temperature. Feeding sloppy food from the ﬂoor makes it easier for infected horses to swallow and encourages abscesses to drain. Hot compresses help them to rupture. Occasionally, vets use antibiotics. It’s imperative to isolate the infected horse.

Treatment for carriers involves removal of dried pus from guttural pouches via endoscopy and the use of topical antibiotics within the pouches.

HOW CAN IT BE PREVENTED? Strangles is endemic within the UK and relatively common. Outbreaks cause disruption and economic problems. It’s highly contagious and spreads via direct contact or indirectly through equipment, shared drinking water and clothing. The bacteria can survive for up to four weeks. • Ensure the yard isn’t overcrowded. • Avoid sharing tack or equipment from horses of unknown health. • At shows/away from the yard, avoid contact with horses of unknown health. Take your own buckets, water and equipment. • Ensure new arrivals are kept apart from others (at least 10 metres) for at least two weeks. • Consult your vet for advice on a strangles vaccination policy for the yard. Some yards insist horses are tested before arrival to identify carriers.

MANAGEMENT DURING AN OUTBREAK 1. Isolate the affected horse at least 10 metres (ideally 25) away from others, with own equipment and water source. Handlers mustn’t move between the infected horse and others. 2. Seek advice from the vet about management, treatment and testing. 3. Lock down yard to prevent horses entering or leaving. 4. Divide horses into groups which mustn’t mix: a. Red – clinical signs and raised temperature. b. Amber – horses which were in contact with horses from red group, even if indirect. c. Green – no known contact with either of above. 5. Healthy horses – monitor temperature twice daily. 6. Foot dips and separate clothing/equipment should be available for each group. 7. Notify all owners. 8. No horse should leave the red area until three consecutive negative nasopharyngeal swabs or a single negative guttural pouch wash is taken. 9. Green and amber groups tested to ascertain infection or carrier status. ■

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 51

LAST CHANCE TO VIEW

Young Horse

Forum FEI 5* judge Isobel Wessels and BD Training Director Paul Hayler host the 2021 Young Horse Forum to discuss scales of training, way of going and what the judges want.

ONLINE

£20 ticket 7 sessions!

Streaming until Friday 2 July! Watch now: www.britishdressage.co.uk.

52 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

Young Horse Forum_fullpage.indd 2

05/05/2021 10:53:43

BD ACTION.

BD ACTION

KEEP UP-TO-DATE WITH THE LATEST NOTICES, NEWS AND VIEWS FROM BRITISH DRESSAGE AT BRITISHDRESSAGE.CO.UK

INTER II TEST NOTICE The FEI has issued a revised Intermediate II test for 2021 which features a change to movement 15 which is used in international competitions. Competitors at the level competing nationally in British Dressage shows should note that our shows will continue to use the 2017 version, where the flying change is at ‘K’, for the remainder of 2021. Riders are urged to check schedules carefully but it should be the 2021 version for international shows and 2017 for national classes. We will look to mirror the FEI test versions from 2022 to avoid any confusion.

ARE YOUR REGISTRATIONS UP TO DATE? This is a polite reminder that horses, riders and owners should be registered before entering BD competitions. Organisers may take late entries at their discretion, however the onus is on the competitor to ensure all parties are registered prior to the entry being accepted. Due to the high volume of registrations at peak times, we advise you allow three working days for postal registrations to be processed. Alternatively you can join/renew online at britishdressage.co.uk/ membership Those who compete without being registered will not be covered by BD members’ insurance and their results will be excluded. Repeat offenders may be fined.

CALLING ALL OWNERS OF TALENTED SEVEN-YEAR-OLDS The 2021 calendar includes the second-time running of the BD Seven-year-old Championship. If you’ve an up-and-coming horse born 2014 and ready to compete Advanced Medium, it’s an opportunity to both give them competition experience and evaluate their training. Important note: At qualifiers, combinations ride Advanced Medium 96 2011, the same test used at semi-finals and championships (not AM92, which is printed in the BD Members’ Handbook). The top two with scores over 63% qualify for semi-finals where the top three with 65% or above qualify for the championships at Somerford Park in September. Visit: britishdressage.co.uk/ competitions/championshipsand-qualifiers/young-horseand-pony/ to find out more.

JUDGE RETIREMENTS Jennifer Gillett (List 2) from Oxfordshire, Lady Caroline Inchcape (List 1) and Jane Kidd (List 1) from Gloucestershire, Christine Pappa (List 5) from Lincolnshire, Tessa Martin-Bird (List 4) from West Sussex and Sheila Urquhart (List 6) from Moray have all retired from the Judges Panel. British Dressage would like to thank them all for their hard work and support over the years and wishes them all the best for the future.

FREE LEGAL HELPLINE: 0845 0178 601

FEI SENSORY HAIRS REMINDER In line with the FEI ruling for 2021 that prohibits the trimming/ shaving/removal of a horse’s sensory hairs around the mouth, nose, eyes and ears, British Dressage has incorporated similarly worded guidance into the BD Welfare Policy this year. The FEI will formally impose sanctions on this ruling from 1 July 2021, which will result in disqualification from any FEI event. However, please note that this is advisory only for national competitions this year and British Dressage will not be introducing any sanctions currently. While we can still advise members not to remove sensory hairs in the interests of horse welfare, as stated by the FEI, it will not be a formal rule until our next full competition year in 2022. The BD Board and Sport Operations Committee will monitor the FEI position closely throughout 2021 to see how this rule is implemented before setting any national sanctions for 2022. In the meantime, our national stewards should observe sensory hairs as part of their checks at major fixtures and may offer guidance to competitors ahead of formal introduction of this rule next year. British Dressage members who compete in international competitions will still have to comply fully with the FEI rule from 1 July 2021, including any sanctions placed on them in the event of contravention.

ENTRIES: IMPORTANT REMINDER In order that results can be recorded accurately, it’s essential that the correct membership number, correct horse registration number and the full and correct name of both horse and rider are given when making an entry.

KEY DATES

27-29 May Winter Regional Championships, Prestige Equestrian LLP, Gloucestershire 28-30 May Somerford Premier League, Cheshire 29 May-3 Jun Winter Regional Championships, Merrist Wood College, Surrey 1-4 Jun Winter Regional Championships, Bishop Burton College, Yorkshire 9-13 Jun Wellington Premier League, Hampshire 16-19 Jun Vale View Premier League, Leicestershire 28 Jun-2 Jul NAF Five Star Winter Championships and Petplan Equine Winter Area Festival Championships, Hartpury College, Gloucestershire 7-11 Jul Hartpury Festival of Dressage including CDI3*, CPEDI1/2/3*, Shearwater YH Semi-finals and Premier League, Gloucestershire 10-11 Jul Summer Regional Championships, Somerford Park, Cheshire 16-18 Jul Summer Regional Championships, Sparsholt College, Hampshire 23-25 Jul Summer Regional Championships and Shearwater and BD Young Horse Semi-Finals, Port Royal EC, North Yorkshire

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 53

Is your farrier registered? Use a Registered Farrier for your peace of mind and for the welfare of your horse or pony Ask to see your farrier’s registration card or check the regulator’s register at www.farrier-reg.gov.uk www.farrier-reg.gov.uk or call 01733 319911 Farriers Registration Council

Foundation Academies Train, learn and excel. If you’re a B, B+ or A squad BD Youth rider, you’re eligible to apply for the 2021 Foundation Academy camps! Find out more and download the application form online: www.britishdressage.co.uk

Rulebook_issue1.indd 5

54 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

Apply NOW Closes 1 August 2021

04/05/2021 12:38:50

REGIONAL ACTIVITY. SOUTH & EAST DO: Katharine Perry and Sharon Walker (job share) M: 07872 603871 (Katharine) M: 07894 232358 (Sharon) E: south&east@britishdressage.co.uk Chairman: Lotte Olsen 01277 822525 Coaching: Tracy Wright 07951 570315 Emma Butler 07843 585504 Rider training: Nicola Preston 07984 642291 Samantha Williams 07974 225005 BD Youth: Phillippa Coles 07860 215895 Jessica Brown 07852 282983 Eve Fifer 07879 643047 Judges: Yvonne Huber 07933 133132 Jane Howard 07831 406406 Para: Joyce Wood 07949 035021 Joanne Dagley-Cleworth 07967 605566 Marketing: Katie Tysome 07772 571497 Caroline Gibson 07795 035581 SOUTH & WEST DO: Amanda Rodgers M: 07894 232355 E: south&west@britishdressage.co.uk Chairman: Susie Cumine 07860 677 977 Coaching: Amy Blount 07773 228562 Nicky Du Plessis 07398 130955 Rider training: Nicky Du Plessis 07398 130955 BD Youth: Jo Lees 07709 376470 Judges: Alicia Anderson 07778 898499 Para: Mark Cunliffe 07717 727147 Marketing: Sharon Stuart 07912 225700 Paula Holland 07748 666794

NORTH & WEST DO: Alex Phillips M: 07495 013192 E: north&west@britishdressage.co.uk

SCOTLAND

Chairman: Tim Downes 07775 797484 Coaching (South): Jane Critchley 07966 865604 Coaching (North): Alison Calvert 07980 886004 Rider training: Jackie Crombie 07816 216594 BD Youth: Sue Blackshaw 07528 570681 Judges: Denise Glanville 07966 303633 Brenda Pamplin 07415 203766 Richard Baldwin 07903 942498 Para: Alison Ramseir 07809 456296 Caroline Unwin 07842 219043 Marketing: Anna Tomlinson 07773 428176

Chairman: Caroline Paterson 07554 086211 Coaching: Jean Stephen 07718 315834 Rider training: Linda Thompson 07919 441039 BD Youth: Kerry Sutherland 07720 085248 Judges: Gillian Peters 07501 444132 Para: Johanne Picken 07507 270508 Marketing: Amelia Ratcliffe-Smith 07837 533506

NORTH & EAST DO: Jo Byrne M: 07783 791191 E: north&east@britishdressage.co.uk Chairman: Vikki Hayton 07860 276578 Coaching: Charlotte Wilson 07949 076141 Rider training: Sarah Farrand 07941 640148 Rachel Longworth 07863 970192 BD Youth: Jess Griffiths 07590 732896 Charlotte Clark 07786 344617 Judges: Helen Copeland 07877 306864 Para: Gillian Brown 07872 923456 Marketing: Sarah McClarron 07557 281360

JUDGE TRAINING Important information: In view of the disruption to the judge training and competition calendar, dispensation has been granted for fulfilling CPD requirements as a judge. The exemption allows an extended period – until the end of Spring 2021 – to attend CPD. We recognise the challenges around face-to-face CPD as a number of the regional seminars were cancelled last year, along with the cancellation of the Principles of Judging Seminar. As an alternative, you will be able to fulfil your CPD requirements by attending two online Zoom judge training sessions at your current level. These are available to book via the judge training Bookwhen page (https://bookwhen.com/bdjudgetraining). We thank you for your continued understanding and support. To apply to become a Trainee judge, visit britishdressage.co.uk/judging/how_to_ become_a_judge. For judge training dates and further information on upcoming seminars and induction days, please see the BD website. Please note that the new exam policy is now in place, so any judges wishing to upgrade must have been at their current list for a minimum of one year before coming forward. Please visit the Judge Bookwhen page at: bookwhen.com/bdjudges where you will find all judge-related booking links including trainee judge registration, system registration, music paper booking, the judge listing form and Zoom judge training sessions. Reminder: It’s a compulsory requirement for all judges to attend two Zoom sessions at the relevant list per year. PART 3 EXAM DATES All judge examinations that have been cancelled will be rescheduled in 2021 to accommodate candidates. Where possible, those booked onto cancelled dates will be offered priority booking. For more information visit britishdressage.co.uk/judging/judge_training and to book visit the judges’ Bookwhen page: bookwhen.com/bdjudges

DO: Kerry Sutherland (Interim) M: 07584 147258 E: scotland@britishdressage.co.uk

WALES DO: Sharon Walker (Interim) M: 07398 763414 E: wales@britishdressage.co.uk Chairman: Mike Mullis 07706 940315 Coaching: Amanda Leaker 07980 309398 Rider training (North Wales): Helen Hopewell 07971 490038 Rider Training (South Wales): Bethan Powell 07545 082247 BD Youth (North Wales): Megan Roberts 07807053246 BD Youth (South Wales): Briony Cutler 07889 817609 Judges: Dianne Breeze 07491 531953 Para: Contact DO Marketing: Cethin Ravenhill 07974 900941 Jen Smithson 07900 993223 Quest: Lorry Davies 07940 449002

REGIONAL TRAINING Please visit each region’s Bookwhen page for the latest dates and to book your place. South & West www.bookwhen.com/bdsouthandwest South & East www.bookwhen.com/bdsouthandeast North & West www.bookwhen.com/bdnorthandwest North & East www.bookwhen.com/bdnorthandeast Wales www.bookwhen.com/bd-wales Scotland www.bookwhen.com/bdscotland

All dates are subject to the status of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Please keep an eye on the British Dressage website and social media channels for the latest updates and arrangements. For the most current dates, please refer to the regional Bookwhen pages which can be found on each regional web page: britishdressage.co.uk/regions/

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 4 2021 // 55

FINANCE

EDUCATION

FAST EQUESTRIAN/FARM LOANS & REMORTGAGES

Start your equine career with Kingston Maurward College

3 Mths T S 25 Yrs A F UTS £10,0-0 £5,0 0 O 00,0 PAY 00

Immediate decision in principle

CCJs, Arrears, Flexible Incomes – no problem! Finance arranged against Farms, Farm buildings, existing Machinery & Equipment, Bare Land, Equestrian buildings, Shops, Cafés etc.

Call us to discuss – if it can be done – we can help!

0800 280 06 05

Apply now for this September kmc.ac.uk/college/ Dorchester | Dorset | DT2 8PY

Brilliant Finance Ltd INDOOR/OUTDOOR ARENAS

OUTDOOR OR INDOOR ARENA BUILDS ARENA REFURBISHMENTS RESURFACING AND TOP-UPS RANGE OF SURFACES AND FREE ADVICE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE - 20m x 40m

ESSEX - 20m x 40m

NORFOLK - 20m x 40m

20m x 40m ARENAS FROM

£19,995

INTERNATIONAL GRAND PRIX RIDER JOANNA THURMAN-BAKER ON A NEW GP ARENAS 20m x 40m ARENA AT TURVILLE VALLEY STUD, HENLEY-ON-THAMES

BUILDING PREMIUM RIDING ARENAS THROUGHOUT THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND

INCLUDING PLANNING PERMISSION

PREMIUM SURFACES EXCLUSIVE TO GP ARENAS

Pantone 289 C100 M85 Y45 K51

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CALL BASINGSTOKE

01256 520431

EXETER

01392 590187

56 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

GLOUCESTER

01452 595168

OXFORD

01865 575356

OR VISIT

GPARENAS.COM

STABLES & OUTBUILDINGS

STABLES & LIVERY

A WORLD CLASS FACILITY Competition training and conditioning for elite horses and riders.

Equestrian buildings

Book online for therapy facilities including aqua-treadmill and vita floor.

equestrian@chedington.co.uk www.chedington.co.uk/equestrian

For further details and a no obligation quote, please contact us:

01829 423 123 info@acjackson.co.uk

ARENA MIRRORS

ADVERTISING

BIDDLECOMBE ARENA MIRRORS

ADVERTISE HERE

www.acjackson.co.uk S U P P LY I N G A N D E R E C T I N G S T E E L F R A M E D BUILDINGS FOR OVER 30 YEARS

/acjacksonltd

For outdoor and indoor arenas Over 10 years experience A professional service guaranteed As used by Charlotte Dujardin 01452 780164 | 07739 224058 biddlecombearenamirrors.co.uk

@ACJacksonLtd

To find out more and to book please call Jacob Holmes on 01242 259244 or email: jacob.holmes@ fellowsmedia.com

CONSTRUCTION ACJ-BritDressage-92.5x116.indd 1

26/01/2021 18:48

Building excellence for you and your horse Design & Layout Planning Application Management 30 years’ Experience Free Consultation

Complete Projects Indoor Arenas Outdoor Arenas Stables & Shelters Gallops & Fencing Horse Walkers Concrete Bases & Groundworks

A TOTAL design and build solution for all your equestrian projects www.teconstruction.co.uk •• 01380 01380 818216 818216 •• info@teconstruction.co.uk info@teconstruction.co.uk www.teconstruction.co.uk

BRITISH DRESSAGE // / Issue 4 2021 // 57

DRESSAGE DAYS.

DRESSAGE DAYS Q&A MEET MELISSA BEER BD Youth has helped launch the career of many young riders such as Melissa Beer who is now developing her own training and livery business. Melissa won the Elementary Restricted national title at 13, before later joining forces with Celestial King, her partner at three Junior Europeans, a Young Rider Europeans and the FEI Young Rider World Cup. She holds her BDCC Level 3 and teaches clinics for BD Youth. Melissa lives in Billingshurst with her partner Paul and their cocker spaniel, Rusty.

This has inﬂuenced the way ride and train others. aving been through the system understand the pressures on young riders and believe this has made me a more empathetic coach.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS? WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO TAKE UP DRESSAGE? y ﬁ rst pony learnt that putting his head down after every jump would send me ﬂying. We were much better at dressage owadays my love for horses and addiction to ‘that feeling’ where it all comes together keeps me inspired.

AT WHAT POINT DID YOU DECIDE TO MAKE IT YOUR PROFESSION? fter college started to work for Sarah illis as her second rider ended up staying for si years was hooked and even though the job comes with e treme highs and lows still can’t imagine what else ’d do.

HOW WAS THE TRANSITION FROM EMPLOYEE TO SELFEMPLOYED? n eye opener in many respects s an employee you have lots of the perks with much less pressure. When you’re self-employed, after your day on the yard, riding and teaching, there are still messages and calls to return, bills to pay and a never-ending list of things to organise. When left my riding job realised how important success at s and my foundation of working at Sarah’s had been. t allowed me to quickly build a network of clients and has recently meant could ﬁ ll a yard with training liveries. feel lucky

to have had such a good start to build upon.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHERS PLANNING THE SAME ROUTE? When making the leap to selfemployed you need to have people to help and support you. mentor or ‘older’ professional who can advise you on what they did, what worked and what didn’t. There are so many paths within the industry. ou have to know your strengths, what you love to do, and then make a plan using those strengths.

WHAT’S YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT SO FAR? had a wonderful time in s with Celestial ing competing all over the world. y favourite show was the oung ider World Cup in rankfurt. The arena is like a smaller scale lympia it was absolutely terrifying at ﬁ rst but the biggest bu

TELL US ABOUT YOUR YARD AND CURRENT HORSES. ’m incredibly lucky to have set up a new training livery yard in West Susse with my long term supporters eil and Catherine Stuart. can now oﬀer top class facilities alongside my training, which is really e citing s well as horses ’m riding for their owners have my own two rennus owned by myself and my partner aul Gri ths,

58 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

who aim to compete at SG this year, and iver ise ingsley, an e citing young horse owned by my parents. e starts his competitive career soon.

HOW HAS TIME IN U21S SHAPED YOU AS A TRAINER? s gave me a huge amount of e perience. t allowed me to learn under diﬀerent trainers at squad trainings and camps, meet many people within the industry, and gave the opportunity to be around and watch riders competing and training at the highest level.

To continue to build and enjoy building my business, keeping my integrity at the heart of everything thing do and every decision make. ockdown has taught me that it’s really important to enjoy the process not just focus on the end goal. want to enjoy each step of each horse’s journey nd to keep learning

SIX FAMOUS GUESTS AT YOUR DREAM DINNER PARTY! The ueen, sabell Werth, Walt isney, eryl Streep, rincess iana, arcus Wareing.

INNOVAT I V E I N S I D E COMFORT, WELL-BEING AND PERFORMANCE GUARANTEED BY OUR HIDDEN SADDLES’ TECHNOLOGIES.

w w w. s a m s h i e l d . c o m w w w. s a m s h i e l d . c o m

SPRING / SUMMER 2021 60 // Issue 4 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

2021-SAMSHIELD-Bristish-dressage.indd 1

03/03/2021 21:12

British Dressage - Issue 4 2021

Articles inside

Earning the marks

Dressage Days

BD Action

Animal health brief

Regional Activity

Competition bridles

Ask the expert

Feeding for competition

Cover up

Sensory hairs

Profi le

Bodyzone

News