ESDCTA MAGAZINE
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
WWW.ESDCTA.ORG January 2020
Cover Photo of Juilliard By: Meredith Rogers
3
18
President’s Message
Amateur Dilemma
6
20
Horse Treats
News from Outside the Ring
8
2020 Executive Officers of the ESDCTA Board
Fun in the Sun…or at least Savannah, Georgia for the USDF Convention
13 USDF Convention 2019 Savannah
16
17
25 2020 Weekend Equestrian program
2020 Rutgers Horse Management Seminar
21
26
2019 ESDCTA Equestrian of the Year
Horse Treats
2
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
President’s Message Welcome everyone to the first newsletter of 2020, I hope everyone had a fun holiday season and a Happy New Year. As I step into the role of President, I hope that I can help the club grow and add new educational experiences for both our junior and adult riders, in both dressage and eventing. I would especially like to thank Heidi Lemack-Beck for doing such a wonderful job of guiding the club these past three years as President, and I feel a bit overwhelmed at the prospect of living up to her excellent job at running the club. I would also like to thank all the new volunteers who have joined the Board as directors or officers, and certainly those who are continuing on in their roles or moving to new positions. I know I won’t be able to excel in the role of President without the help and guidance of everyone involved, considering all the past experience everyone brings to the club. We have a very exciting year lined up with dates already locked in for all the major shows and cross- country schooling. Dates for clinics, educational opportunities, and grant deadlines will be emailed out as they become available. And don’t forget the Awards Banquet on Sunday February 23, at the Copper Hill Country Club in Ringoes, NJ, doors open at 1:30. If you haven’t signed up yet, please visit https://www.esdcta.org/home/awards/esdcta-annual-awards-luncheon/ for all the information and to purchase a ticket. And please consider donating an item or service to the silent auction. I wish everyone a very successful competition and/or fun-filled year, in whatever way you choose to enjoy your horse – try not to lose sight of the reason you’re involved with horses!
Holly Cornell President
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
3
Board of Trustees OFFICERS President
Holly Cornell
president@esdcta.org
Vice President
Ellen Brindle-Clark
vicepresident@esdcta.org
Secretary
Ruth McCormick
secretary@esdcta.org
Treasurer
Betty Audduci 260 Betty Lane Gilbert, Pa 18331
treasurer@esdcta
Dressage at Large
Eliza Banks
MAL@esdcta.org
Eventing at Large
Jennifer Duelfer
MAL@esdcta.org
Dressage Competitions
Dr. Lisa Toaldo
dressage@esdcta.org
Eventing Competitions
Janice Pellegrino
eventing@esdcta.org
Marketing
Erin Gale
marketing@esdcta.org
Membership
Tamara Purdy
membership@esdcta.org
Membership
Heidi Lemack
membership@esdcta.org
Finance
Gary Maholic
finance@esdcta.org
Education
Victoria Shilton
education@esdcta.org
Youth
Ellen Brindle-Clark
youth@esdcta.org
NJEAB Representative
Carolyn Montgomery
crunner141@comcast.net
Awards
Debra Tomajko
awards@esdcta.org
Calendars/Activities
Alexandra Krossen
activities@esdcta.org
Grants
Debra Tomajko
grants@esdcta.org
Equipment
Wilma Pfeer
dressage@esdcta.org
Newsletter
Meredith Rogers
newsletter@esdcta.org
Nominating
Susan Lax
chivalryhillfarm@aol.com
Omnibus
Mia Zimmerman
omnibus@esdcta.org
Show Results
Jean Goetz
results@esdcta.org
732.208.8715
Executive Board
201.874.0373
215.489.1557 609.351.1054
OFF BOARD COMMITTEE CHAIRS
609.466.4178
1
Become a friend of the ESDCTA on Facebook Follow us on Twitter @ESDCTA 4
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
CROSS COUNTRY... News Across Our Region COMMUNITY NEWS
Milestone
If you’re reading this, you are probably a member of ESDCTA, but I’m sure you know of someone who rides dressage or events who is not a member. You know all about the wonderful things offered like educational programs, clinics with big name trainers, horse shows, year-end awards, and not least, that sense of being part of a community of likeminded people. The more members ESDCTA has, the better the programs we can offer. Our membership numbers are also important considerations when state and local governments decide on legislature that affects us (like open space), and we advocate for our sports (we’re working on better footing at the HPNJ). Please reach out to your equestrian buddies and tell them about all of the benefits of membership and have them sign up. The more the merrier!
Please Contact Linda Marciante if you know any ESDCTA members who have achieved any Milestones. Success at a show, regional/national/international award, new horse, or anything else you want to celebrate.
WHAT’S YOUR TALENT?? Let us know what you would like to help us with in 2020. All skills and interests wanted. Have an idea? We want to hear about it. Remember, this club is what YOU make it. Contact president@esdcta.org if you are interested.
NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE
Have a great article that you would like to share? Please send article to: Meredith Rogers: newsletter@esdcta.org All submissions are due by the 15th of the month. Due to space considerations, the editor reserves the right to edit submitted articles. If necessary, articles will be edited and returned for your review. AND YOU GET VOLUNTEER HOURS FOR EACH STORY!
e-mail: lindalbbf@gmail.com
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS For membership questions including updating physical or e-mail addresses please contact: Tamara Purdy membership@esdcta.org
2020 ADVERTISING RATES
MEMBER NON-MEMBER FULL PAGE $100 $130 HALF PAGE $65 $85 QUARTER PAGE $40 $60 BUSINESS CARD $20 $30 CARD FOR 3 MONTHS $45 $65 CLASSIFIEDS $10 $15 Deadline: 15th of prior month Email: newsletter@esdcta.org Please have electronic ads in Adobe PDF or .jpg format
You will receive an invoice for ad via email. Send Payment to: Betty Adduci 266 Betty Lane Gilbert, PA 18331 Email: treasurer@esdcta.org
OPEN BOARD POSITIONS • Calendar
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
5
2020 ESDCTA Annual Awards Luncheon February 23, 2020 Cooper Hill Country Club Ringos, NJ *Registration form on the ESDCTA Website! Final Year End Standings coming soon! We are in need of donations for the Silent Auction! If you are interested in donating items, please reach out to Debra Tomajko debratomajko@gmail.com All proceeds from the auction goes towards ESDCTA Education Events and grants program
EDGAR HOTZ MEMORIAL ROUND TABLE This year’s round table will be held on February 1 in the library of the USET Headquarters in Gladstone, NJ. It is once again Continuing Education approved by USDF, so attendance will count toward CE requirements for “L” graduates. All dressage and eventing licensed officials, judges in training, “L” graduates, and “L” candidates are invited at no cost, we ask only that everyone contribute something to our fabulous pot-luck lunch! Please help spread the word and join us for a fun and educational (and warm) day of practice judging, discussion, and Q & A. Please RSVP to jakestapel@gmail.com and let me know what you can contribute to lunch. Oven space is very limited but crock pots are always a big hit!!
6
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
Meet your new 2020 Executive Officers of the ESDCTA Board! Holly Cornell, President Holly previously served as ESDCTA Vice President. Prior to that, she held the position of Eventing Member-at-Large for three years. She has enjoyed her time on the Board, as well as helping to be the voice of eventers within the membership. Holly competes at USEA events, is acquainted with other eventers, and hopes to be able to bring feedback to the Board as President to improve and increase the number of eventing members. Her knowledge of eventing, as well as her experience serving as show Secretary for schooling dressage and combined test shows, has given her insight and knowledge that she believes is beneficial to the Board and the general membership. "Being part of an enthusiastic group that promotes equine education and activities is most enjoyable," said Holly. She looks forward to continuing her involvement in ESDCTA through many avenues, including volunteering at events and competitions.
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
7
Ellen Brindle Clark, Vice President Ellen Brindle-Clark previously served as the Co-Chair of the ESDCTA Youth Committee. She is a life-long equestrian, starting out in Florida where she followed her older cousin to and around `the barn. As her family moved from country to country with the aerospace industry, her one constant and universal "language" was horses. Ellen studied dressage and jumping in England; eventing in Holland and Germany; and dressage, jumping, and even a little western riding in the US. She said these experiences have led to a strong foundational knowledge of riding, horsemanship, and the equestrian industry. Having settled in New Jersey more than 20 years ago, Ellen's primary focus has become dressage. She runs Dressage Experience Show Management Services LLC. She manages more than 20 shows a year, ranging from schooling shows to Level 3 USEF/USDF licensed shows. Ellen also contracts with Centerline Events for HITS on the Hudson and Region 8 GAIG Regional Championships. Ellen is a devoted 4H volunteer and has served 12 years as a club leader, sitting on the Burlington County Horse Advisory Board, and the NJ 4H State Horse Program Advisory Council Executive Committee. She has chaired the ECRDA Youth Committee, is current CoChair of the ESDCTA Youth Committee and serves as Vice President of the Board of Trustees for The Horse Park of New Jersey.
8
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
Ruth McCormick, Secretary Ruth joined the Board three years ago as Secretary and has been an ESDCTA member for over 12 years. As Secretary, she records the minutes at Board meetings, works on committees, volunteers, and participates in other projects and tasks to support ESDCTA. An amateur dressage rider who started when she was 40, Ruth now rides five days a week since her retirement as a human resources professional. She has a 22-year-old mare and a 12-year-old gelding that she has shown at fourth level. This experience allows her to "better appreciate how much work it is for ESDCTA to run shows and clinics." Ruth believes the analytical and organizational skills she has attained over the course of her career is beneficial to ESDCTA. She also volunteers as a mentor for women in other organizations and is on the business school council at Valparaiso University.
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
9
Betty Adduci, Treasurer Betty has been the ESDCTA Treasurer for three years, bringing to the position her extensive experience in financial reporting, general ledger controls, and detailed account analysis in the financial industry. She has maintained the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment, and quickly identify problems and implement solutions. Her accounting skills also includes extensive knowledge of QuickBooks. In this position, Betty maintains current and accurate records and provides the Board with account status updates to support the organization's goals and decisions. She said she would "like to continue being Treasurer and participate with the Board members towards ESDCTA's mission." Betty also volunteers at events and competitions. She enjoys ESDCTA's educational opportunities that expand horsemanship knowledge and skills, which she believes results in a better partnership for horse and rider. Her goal as a Board member is to "increase efficiency and growth in this organization.
10
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
Jennifer Duelfer, Eventing Member-at-Large
learning to ride themselves.
Jennifer got involved with horses nearly 30 years ago when her parents started taking lessons at a local stable. Horses have been a part of Jen's everyday life ever since. A local trainer introduced her to the sport of eventing twenty years ago, and she fell in love. Since then, she has been actively involved in competing and volunteering her time. Jen currently owns two horses: an off-thetrack thoroughbred she hopes to compete through the preliminary level and her retired warmblood mare. Both horses are kept on her parent’s small farm that Jen helps manage. She is also the mother to two young children who love coming out to the farm and are
As the Eventing Member-at-Large, Jen hopes to be able to represent the eventing communities' interest at ESDCTA. She will continue to volunteer at be a presence at the local shows and events. Please reach out to her with any concerns or areas where we can improve our club.
Eliza Banks, Dressage Member-at-Large Eliza, currently serving as the ESDCTA Dressage Member-atLarge, is a USDF bronze and silver medalist. She is a dressage trainer and instructor in the central NJ area. Eliza's clients represent a diverse groups of horse owners and riders. She enjoys competing and is passionate about the education of trainers, riders, and owners in the discipline. Eliza said she would "be happy to continue to serve as DMAL for the ESDCTA and support its efforts to help its members achieve their goals." She wants members to feel they are a part of a meaningful and cohesive GMO. She believes serving on the Board is an important way she can give back to the sport she enjoys so much.
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
11
Additional 2020 Board Members: Heidi Lemack- Membership Tamara Purdy- Membership Dr. Lisa Toaldo- Dressage Competitions Janice Pellegrino- Eventing Committee Victoria Shilton- Education Debra Tomajko- Awards/ Grants Gary Maholic- Finance Carolyn Montgomery- NJ Equine Advisory Board Representative Erin Gale- Marketing Mia Zimmerman- Omnibus Meredith Rogers - Newsletter Editor Jean Goeltz- Show Results Susan Lax- Nominations Alexandra Krossen- Calendars/Activities
12
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
Learning, Fun, and Community at the 2019 USDF Convention By, Heidi Lemack-Beck
We had five people from ESDCTA attend the annual USDF convention (December 4-7, Savannah, GA) in an official capacity: two GMO delegates, Betty Adduci, and Heidi Lemack; and three PM (Participating Member) delegates, Ellen Brindle-Clark, Debbie DelGiorno, and Lisa Toaldo. Here’s a short run-down on what goes on and key takeaways. Wednesday were all closed meetings for the USDF Executive Board and Committees. On Thursday morning we started our activities with the Region 1 meeting where all the Region 1 people met to discuss the issues to be voted on during the Board of Governors (BOG) meetings, and to catch up with what is happening around the region. We then split up to cover the different committee meetings including the Adult Programs committee, Youth Program committee, Judges L Program and Freestyle Open Forum, USDF/USEF Open Forum (about trending topics in sport and USEF rule changes), and the Judges Reoundtable. On Friday, we had the second part of our Region 1 meeting. One topic was dividing the Jr/Yr division for placing at shows into 15 years and under and 16-21 years, and
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
13
we met the USDF Vice-President nominees. After that, we split again for the GMO Roundtables, Instructor/Trainer Program, and Competition Open Forum. We then reunited for the BOG meeting. Besides the usual organizational stuff that goes on there – budgets, rule change discussions and presentation of nominees for Board positions – Bill Moroney, CEO of USEF, spoke about SafeSport. “There is no doubt the implementation of SafeSport has been an incredible challenge,” he said. “The new rules and regulations for governing SafeSport were coming rapidly, and this resulted in a tremendous amount of information being pushed out, creating anxiety, fear, confusion, and animosity. We realize we did not communicate this program as well as we could have. We’re revamping the SafeSport section of our website effective in January with new resources that will provide you with what you need to know in order to stay in compliance.” He ended his speech with: “The USEF and all of us who work on this every day completely support the women and the men who have bravely come forward to tell their stories. They should have never had to endure abuse of any kind, and their strength is a testament to their character. Their efforts are raising awareness in our sport. I thank all of our members for your support and their questions, which help us do better in providing a safe and joyful experience for all.” On Saturday morning, The BOG met again to hear from The Dressage Foundation and their numerous grants, plus the new grants in development. During the session we voted on the budget, agreed on some By-Law changes, and then there was the presentation of GMO awards, where our Carey Williams received her USDF Region 1 Volunteer of the Year award from the USDF President, Lisa Gorretta. During the three days, there were numerous interesting, helpful, and enlightening educational opportunities. • Managing Equine Degenerative Joint Disease with Dr. Cindy Hatffield • Nuts and Bolts of Designing a Freestyle with Terry Ciotto-Gallo & Joan Darnell • Traditional, Trendy or Too Far (Suitable attire for licensed competitions, schooling shows, and clinics) with Gwen Kaawaloa, Michelle King, and Donna Meyer. • What’s New in Bits and Bridles with Dr. Hilary Clayton • The Connection Between the Horse’s Body and Mind with Kathy Connelly and Charlotte Bredahl Of course, we couldn’t miss the Saturday night Salute Gala & Annual Awards Banquet, 14
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
which celebrates the year end awards winners and the special awards winners. •USDF Hall Of Fame inductees: Axel Steiner and Jane Savoie •Lifetime Achievement award: Fern Feldman •Volunteer of the Year award: Kristi Wysocki •Youth Volunteer of the Year award: Ruby Tevis Important Take Aways • USDF has taken over several responsibilities from the USEF. In 2019, USDF was responsible for all continuing education opportunities for licensed officials, and in 2020 they will manage all training for licensed officials. More information is available through the USDF education department. • Lisa Gorretta announced that junior riders will be allowed to compete in the US Dressage Finals beginning in 2021. They will follow the same qualifying process as adults and may compete in championships for training through fourth level. She said the task force responsible for this project did not predict that the inclusion of juniors would require extra days or rings to be added to the finals. • The US Dressage Finals will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park in 2020, but poor weather in 2019 prompted renewed discussion of moving the finals to another venue. USDF is open to moving the competition, but the organizing committee has struggled to find a showground with the required space, footing, stabling, and dates. • Yourdressage.org has been very successful receiving many hits and log ins. You should take a look at what it offers. https://yourdressage.org/education/ Next month, look for detailed information about some of the special education events that were held, changes being discussed in the Instructor/Trainers Program, Schooling show awards program, and new initiatives being discussed and worked on.
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
15
16
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
Horse Treats By, Meredith Rogers
The top 10 reasons to buy a horse: 10. They are a dime a dozen – check out all of the “free to good home” ads online; so what that they’re old, a little bruised, or unruly; you can fix all that, right? 9. Meet new people – you know, that woman who curls her horse’s tail with a curling iron, yeah, that one 8. They can take you places – so what if it’s faster than you expected or in a different direction than planned; go with the flow, or the spooking horse; whatever 7. Pay less taxes – wait, a horse isn’t counted as a dependent? But you must feed, house, and clothe it; scratch this one 6. The kids asked for a dog – and if you gave in to that one, who knows what they would ask for next 5. Learn geography – so that’s where Oldenburg and Chincoteague are 4. Keep in touch with old friends – at least your friend the ER nurse 3. It’s an excuse to buy new clothes – breeches are so trendy 2. You always liked meteorology – rain in the morning means turnout sheet; sunny and humid in the afternoon, time to run to the barn to take it off And the number 1 reason to buy a horse: 1. They’re pretty, smell nice, and have big eyes that look into your soul
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
17
The Amateur Dilemma By, Meredith Rogers
Happy New Year!!! New Years is a strange season. We look back at the past and hope for the future at the same time. With horses there is always a lot to both review and plan for. Did we accomplish our training and showing goals? If we did, great! What’s next? And if we didn’t, bummer. And what’s next? Regardless of whether it was a good or bad year (aren’t they always both), I always go into the new year thinking that this year will be better. However, just like at my birthday, I also think about where the time went. December flew by. 2019 flew by. I wish I had spent more time to doing X,Y,Z. I wish I had spent less time on that other thing. I should have, could have, wish I had. But, nothing is accomplished by wishful thinking. Having a plan for the upcoming year is important, even if that plan needs to shift over time. What level would I like to show at for this year? What skills do my horse and I need to improve to show at that level? How should I approach our training to acquire those skills? Sometimes it helps to write it down: goal in one column, steps to accomplish goal in the other. Some things are out of our control, but it still helps to identify what those things are and come up with rough plans: if A happens, I’ll do X, and if B happens, I’ll do Y. That’s where I am right now, and I’m hoping by February, the unknowns are a little more concrete, so I can have a real roadmap to follow for 2020. Although the term SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound) goals seems corny and is overused, there’s a lot of truth in keeping it in mind as you think about what you want to accomplish in 2020 with your horse(s). If you choose unattainable goals, you will only be disappointed come December. If you have a big goal (eg, qualify for nationals), it’s a good idea to also have smaller goals that help achieve the big goal. For example, my big goal last year was an All-Breed award at Second level. I did not achieve that, but I did show at Second, which I had never done before – a smaller goal that I did pull off. Most importantly, through training and showing, I learned some things about my horse that should help us moving forward. My overarching goal is always to learn. However, just saying I want to “learn” is not a specific enough goal. Every time I ride, I come up with a plan for the next ride, so what I’m “learning” fits the SMART pattern. For example, on the baby horse, I was having trouble with shoulder-in, so my SMART goal for the next time I rode was to do a better shoulder-in. You can’t get much more Specific than a specific movement;
18
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
it was Measurable as my trainer could tell me I either did it right or wrong; it was Achievable since I’ve done shoulder in on PJ; Realistic for my skillset and Leo’s; and since I wanted to improve for my next lesson, it was also Time-bound. I came up with a plan to accomplish this goal, which involved going on to the Internet to research aids for shoulder-in, closely watching others perform shoulder-in, and asking my trainer exactly what she was doing during shoulder-in when problems arose (eg, too much angle, rushing, etc), and practicing in my head. And, guess what? I got pretty descent shoulder-in at my next lesson! I want to thank everyone who read this column and the entire ESDCTA newsletter in 2019 (examining the past) and hope that you find value in both throughout this new year (planning for the future). I also hope you all accomplish your (SMART) goals, have fun with your horse(s), and have a fabulous 2020.
Our Own Honored at the USDF Convention By, ESDCTA
Our very own Carey Williams received the USDF Region 1 Volunteer of the Year Award. Carey is an Associate Professor and an Equine Extension Specialist at Rutgers University. She not only is an active researcher and teacher at Rutgers, but she is embedded in the local equine and eventing communities, and much deserves this award. Carey has been volunteering for ESDCTA for the past 11 years, always willing to lend a hand, organize events, provide educational resources, and is an integral part of our organization. She has served on the Board as a representative to the NJ Equine Advisory Board, and currently serves as our Volunteer Coordinator and Volunteer Trainer for our NJ Horse Trials. As part of her role at Rutgers, she has her pulse on the state of equine health and shares her expertise with our membership, as well as bringing nonmembers in the equine community to assist with ESDCTAsponsored events and encourages them to become involved in our great organization. Carey is always ready to help with both big and small projects and always with a smile. She is truly committed to helping the ESDCTA and the equine industry move into the future.
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
19
News from Outside the Ring Changing Up the Tests The Fédération Equestre Internationale has updated the following FEI Dressage Tests: Intermediaire I, Intermediaire A and B, and Intermediaire II. The Children’s and Seniors’ tests have been tweaked, and the FEI has approved a Developing Grand Prix horse test for national competition only. The Eventing dressage tests have also been modified. The new versions are valid as of January 1, 2020. They can all be found here: https://inside.fei.org/fei/your-role/all-dressage-tests Showing Your Support, Doing Good A bill has been proposed by NJ Assemblyman Kevin Rooney and unanimously passed by the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee to issue a new license plate that will help fund therapeutic riding programs for veterans and individuals with special needs. This new license plate will feature the head of a chestnut horse, our state animal. The new plate will cost $50 plus a $10 renewal fee. Once the costs to produce the plates are accounted for, the remaining funds will go to the NJ Department of Agriculture to be used to support the health and well-being of the horses used in therapeutic programs. Show your support for our favorite animal while helping others – a win-win!
Winter Shows EVENT NAME
Alexandria Assoc. Alexandria Assoc. Alexandria Assoc. Alexandria Assoc.
20
EVENT DESCRIPTION
Eq.
Dressage Schooling
Eq.
Dressage Schooling Dressage Schooling Dressage Schooling
Eq. Eq.
yourmagazine
2020 EVENT START DATE
2020 OPENING 2020 CLOSING DATE DATE
EVENT VENUE NAME
EVENT WEBSITE
2/1/2020
1/2/2020
1/25/2020
Alexandria Park
http://www.aeanj.com/
2/15/2020
1/2/2020
2/8/2020
Alexandria Park
http://www.aeanj.com/
3/14/2020
1/2/2020
3/7/2020
Alexandria Park
http://www.aeanj.com/
3/28/2020
1/2/2020
3/21/2020
Alexandria Park
http://www.aeanj.com/
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
Fun in the Sun…or at least Savannah, Georgia for the USDF Convention By, Paige Zimmerman
This year, for the very first time, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the USDF Annual Convention and awards celebration in Savannah, Georgia. We went from December 5-8, 2019. I had great fun taking in a city to which I’d never been and had some fantastic meals. I attended dressage education sessions that I really enjoyed and from which learned a lot, and enjoyed a spectacular formal gala, at which I’ll admit to being awed by seeing in person and even speaking with some of the top professional competitors, trainers, coaches, and sponsors in the country! When we arrived at the hotel and convention center on Thursday, the first thing we did was eagerly take in our surroundings. I have to say, USDF selected a beautiful site for their event. The hotel was set on a small island of its own, and across the harbor, you could see the Savannah waterfront section of town. To get across the harbor, we took a quick ferry ride that was very enjoyable and was free. The food, atmosphere, and weather were perfect. It was a nice break from 30-degree Pennsylvania weather to enjoy a balmy 70 degrees! Also, apparently, the Port of Savannah is the second busiest container exporter in the US and the largest single container terminal in North America. So, every once in a while, a massive cargo ship would come floating down the river, along with tug boats and a gigantic contraption that is used to lift the cargo containers off of the ships. This was startling at first, especially when we were enjoying lunch in town and could hear the foghorns (I think that’s what the ships’ horns are called) from a mile away. But the horns became kind of soothing in a way, Savannah Port over time. Friday afternoon, Brenda Curnin and I attended an educational session about creating and competing a successful musical freestyle. It was very interesting and it was a great session for me personally to attend because I am inexperienced in this topic and I feel like it is something every aspiring dressage competitor should understand. Freestyles
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
21
are often the favorite classes at our shows for both competitors and spectators: take the Dressage at Devon and Del Mar musical freestyle nights as examples. They always draw large crowds. In this workshop, the judging of a musical freestyle also was discussed. A few of the most memorable take-aways for me were: 1) make sure your music suits your horse; 2) don’t make the choreography too difficult and risk points; and 3) the judges want to see quality over quantity, so don’t take up the entire maximum time in the arena if you have completed all the requirements and are finished quickly…. in other words, “get in, and get out”! Saturday began with a workshop to aspiring youth riders on the importance of dressage horse conformation. About half of this session was focused on breeding quality dressage horses and what breeders think about when they develop their babies and young horses. Part of this session was also dedicated to the ways in which breeding stallions are chosen for certain mares. For example, a mare with a less-than-ideal walk might be paired with a stallion who has a great walk, a mare with short legs might be paired with a stallion who has long legs, etc. It was fascinating to hear how breeders play the genetic lottery, hoping to counteract substandard traits with good ones. The second half of the session, presented by judge Kristi Wysocki, was dedicated to the judging of dressage horses and what you should look for when evaluating and potentially purchasing a prospect. When I attended Dressage at Devon’s Breed Division this past year and the year before, I was in awe of the high energy of the show and how judges are able to evaluate young horses for lifetime FEI potential in a matter of a few minutes. So, it was incredibly fascinating to hear Ms. Wysocki break it down for all of us and explain the particulars and specifics of assessing young sport horses. On Saturday night I attended the USDF Annual Salute Gala with Brenda, Olivia, and my mom. Olivia won the 4 and 5-Year-Old Mare Materiale with Brenda’s young horse “Flying Colors”, I won the American Hanoverian Society First Level Jr/Yr with Brenda’s gelding “Ducati”, and I received my Bronze Medal. We all really enjoyed the dinner and socializing, and being on stage at a national convention was pretty 22
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
cool too! I loved the atmosphere and enjoyed cheering on all of the other winning riders, youth, amateurs, and professionals alike. 2020 here we come! I’m really looking forward to continuing my journey with team Steidle. It’s pure joy for me to be involved with this group of women who unfailingly mutually support and mentor each other. Plus, the quality riding and training, the beautiful horses, and all the fun we have together make me feel like the luckiest kid on earth every day!
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
23
Changes for 2020 Membership Fees USDF has recently announced that starting in 2020, the USDF pass-through fee GMOs are required to pay for each member is increasing. This pass-through fee has always been included in your annual ESDCTA membership and it gives you a USDF Group Member membership, access to showing at recognized USDF shows, ability to earn rider medals, and access to e-Trak. all without needing a USDF Participating Membership. In order to cover our expenses and keep the club operating with our current offerings, we are in need of increasing membership fees to cover the USDF increase. Below is a full detail of what the current membership fees are. and what they will be in 2020. Current 2019 Membership Fee
2020 Membership Fee
$40
$45
$45 $55 $72 $92
$50 $60 $80 $94 $150 (No Change) $24
Supporting Member Youth Member Senior Family of Two Family of Three Business Member
$150
Life Members
$20
ESDCTA Membership includes more than just a USDF Group Membership! As a member, you can expect: Ø Schooling and Recognized Shows Ø Schooling Championships Ø Year End Awards Program Ø Discounts for ESDCTA organized or affiliated Clinics and Educational events Ø Access to our Monthly Newsletter and email blasts that keep you up to date with things happening in our area Ø Opportunities for Youth and Adult Team Competitions and Sponsorships Ø Education grants
24
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
yourmagazine
25
Anna Gunning: 2019 ESDCTA Equestrian of the Year By, ESDCTA
Anna resides in Bernardsville, NJ, and is a member of ESDCTA. She earned her USDF Bronze medal with her horse, Devon Hill, a former hunter/equitation horse that she has now ridden through Fourth Level. She has also competed at the Region 8 USDF Championships and placed 3rd in the Junior Team Test and 5th in the Fourth Level JR/YR division. Anna has also been a working student for Wendy Garfinkel since 2016, where she helps with daily barn chores and rides. When she is not with her horses, Anna attends Bernard’s High School. She has been on the honor roll for her Freshman and Sophomore years and also plays the bass clarinet. ESDCTA is thrilled to have Anna represent us as the 2019 Equestrian of the Year. She will now go on to represent ESDCTA in the State Equestrian of the Year competition on January 11!
26
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
BUSINESS MEMBERS Blue Bridle Insurance Agency
Windy Hollow Hunt Club Sussex County Fairgrounds 37 plaines road Augusta NJ
PO Box 27 Pittstown, NJ 08867 1.800.526.1711 Nancyh@BlueBridle.com www.BlueBridle.com
AMY HOWARD DRESSAGE LLC
www.WindyHollow.org
Anjelhart Equestrian Center
338 Rileyville Rd Ringoes, NJ 08551 1.908.310.9384 Ashoward@hotmail.com www.AmyHowardDressage.com
Pleasant Ridge Farm LLC
38 Millers Mill Rd, Cream Ridge, NJ 08514 609.758.7676 lacavacreations@aol.com www.Anjelhart.com
Cheret Dressage
122 Barn Swallow Lane, Cresco Pa. 18326 570.856.4977 Brily17@ptd.net www.PleasantRidgeFarmllc.com
Good Times Farm
75 Back Brook Road, Ringoes, N.J. 908.208.6686 Cheretdressage@gmail.com www.CheretDressage.com
Heart’s Journey Stable
278 Jackson Mills Road, Freehold, NJ 07728 732.409.2882 gtts@optonline.net www.GoodTimeFarm.com
Flying Change Farm
425 Kromer Road Wind Gap, PA 18091 610.863.6616 mmorehouse@epix.net www.heartsjourneystables.com
Stone Horse Farm
60 Sutton Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833 908.797.2634 fcfnj@aol.com www.flyingchangefarm.com
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
35 Sutton Road, Lebanon, NJ, 08833 1.570.460.5184 StoneHorseFarm@me.com www.stonehorseequestrian.com
yourmagazine
27
Jersey Palms Farm
NJ Equine Imaging
177 S. Stump Tavern Road Jackson NJ, 08527 609.213.5745 KWLYNX@comcast.net www.jerseypalmsfarm.com
12 Fairway Drive Toms River NJ 18753 609.969.0569 NJEquineImaging@comcast.net www.njequineImaging.com
Red Tail Farm
Family & Cosmetic Dentistry 502 Pennsylvania Avenue Matamoras, Pa 18336 570.228.1921
125 Hacklebarney Rd Chester NJ 07930 201.919.8959 lindadietz.redtailfarm@gmail.com www.redtailfarmnj.com
www.drlisatoaldodmd.com
Suds and Duds
Rhythm and Blues Stables
8 Midland Drive Hackettstown NJ 07840 800.816.3882 info@horsedudsandsuds.com www.horsedudsandsuds.com
12 Hill Rd. Allentown NJ 08501 609 306-8221 RBLStables@aol.com www.rhythmandbluesstables.com
Schleese Saddle Fit4Life
Stacies Saddles
34 Centiennal Ave Holand Landing DC
1-905-898-8335 sabine@schleese.com www.saddlefit4life.com
Stacies Saddles
The Black Pony 1 Canterbury Lane Lebanon NJ 08833 908 507 8929 redroan1202@yahoo.com www.blackponytackshop.com
28
yourmagazine
COLLECTIVE REMARKS
136 Springfield Meeting House Road Jobstown NJ 08041 732-208-2760 StacieSaddles@comcast.net Stacies Saddles
WWW.ESDCTA.ORG January 2020 COLLECTIVE REMARKS
Digital Publication Designed by Mead Creative
MEAD CREATIVE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS - MARKETING STRATAGY WEBSITE & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT
Mike@MeadCreative.com