Horse Country 6-2012 by Linda Hazelwood

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

The View From Here

How soon summer slides into fall. We cannot complain about the beautiful weather we had, when even a thunderstorm came as a relief. Fall is the traditional time for horse sales, so in this issue we look at some of the details of buying a horse. Have you ever wondered about the ins and outs of a pre-purchase examination on your new horse? Find out what happens on page 4. On page 28 we follow reader Kiirsten May through her search for her nextlevel horse. And we couldn’t resist it: the Last Word on page 54 gives you the down-and-dirty on some of the horse descriptions you might find in a “horse for sale” adverts. I will be checking these closely myself as I start the hunt for my next partner. If you’re not looking for a riding horse you might like the smallest horse in the world, the Falabella, described on page 22. If you like watching horses in action, you will have been glued to the Olympics. On page 32 we have comment on the riders and their horses. (To follow the storm that blew up around the disqualification of a Canadian show jumper, please look on our website’s “Breaking News”.) On page 33 we have an exclusive daily diary from Jan Stephens (Canada’s National Technical Officer) who was invited to act as Steward at the Olympics. Happy Trails

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Linda Hazelwood Editor and publisher

The happy guy on this issue’s cover is Kevin Glenister of Dryden, ON. Kevin has written a few Natural Horsemanship articles for Horse Country and is a big fan of the magazine. Back in June, we were let into a secret: being on the cover of Horse Country was on Kevin’s bucket list. While the cover is always Editor’s Choice, this was a chance we couldn’t miss. Megan Gagnon – a friend of Kevin’s – was behind the birthday surprise and took the picture of Kevin at the annual Don Halladay clinic held in Edwin, MB. It was an easy task to do without Kevin suspecting anything as Kevin always enjoys being in front of the camera with his horses. In this photo, he had just finished a demonstration for Don, and is showing off one of his favorite “Road to the Horse” traditions with the use of his extraordinary training tools: two Ipods that create the loud crack of Australian stock whips. Kevin’s birthday is in August, so “Happy Birthday, Kevin!”

HORSE COUNTRY Publisher: L. Hazelwood Suite 203, 23-845 Dakota Street, Winnipeg, MB, R2M 5M3 Phone toll free 1-866-886-2425. Local 204-256-7467. Fax 204-257-2467. www.horsecountry.ca. ISSN 1193-2163. Volume 28, Issue #6-2012: August 27, 2012. Published eight times a year: every six weeks, February/November. Print subscriptions: one year $29.50, two years $53.50, three years $72.50. Digital subscriptions one year $15, two years $25. All prices include taxes applicable to the province of delivery. Cover price $4.95. GST #86303-1456 For US mailed subscriptions add $18 - one year ($36 - two years) CDN, for Europe add $30 - one year ($60 - two years) CDN if airmail is required. Price includes mailing from Canada. An order form is printed at the back of the magazine. US and international subscribers can order a digital version at Canadian prices (no added mailing costs). Please go to www. horsecountry.ca and click on the digital subscription link. Order subscriptions from www.horsecountry.ca/subscribe, or Suite 203, 23-845 Dakota Street, Winnipeg, MB, Canada, R2M 5M3. Phone 204-256-7467, toll-free 1-866-886-2425 or email contact@horsecountry.ca. Pay online, or by mailed cheque, Visa, Mastercard or Money Order. Publisher’s Mail Agreement #40753025. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Suite 203, 23-845 Dakota Street, Winnipeg, MB, R2M 5M3. Email: editor@horsecountry.ca. The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted without the consent of the publisher, and copyright remains with Horse Country (Woodstock Media Services) unless expressly released. Horse Country assumes no responsibility for claims made in advertising copy and has the right to refuse any articles, stories, advertising copy or photos. It is the responsibility of the advertiser or author to obtain copyright releases for photographs used in advertising or supplied editorial, and to verify the authenticity of information supplied which forms the whole or part of editorial pieces. Manuscripts and pictures are welcomed; please state terms and enclose SASE for return if required. Writer’s Guidelines are posted on www. horsecountry.ca. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. HORSE COUNTRY PRIVACY CODE: A subscription to Horse Country includes a free emailed newsletter which arrives no more than once every three weeks. If you do not wish to receive this e-letter, please advise in writing to the email or regular mail address above. We may occasionally make our database of addresses available to businesses which we feel have products which would be of interest to you. Please advise us if you do not wish to receive this information. Horse Country’s complete privacy code can be found at www.horsecountry.ca/privacy. EDITOR Linda Hazelwood 1-866-886-2425 or 204-256-7467 (local) editor@horsecountry.ca CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Ishbel Moore, ishbel@horsecountry.ca ADVERTISING SALES Anita East, anita@horsecountry.ca - 204-275-1101 OFFICE ADMINSTRATION Eldeen Stark, contact@horsecountry.ca SUBSCRIPTIONS contact@horsecountry.ca LAYOUT & DESIGN The Creative Crew. creativecrewcanada@gmail.com ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTIONS: Heather Arklie, Mike Branch, Jackie Crispin, Megan Gagnon, Dr. Cyndi Kasper, Stephanie Kwok, Dr. Kirstin MacDonald, Kiirsten May, Ishbel Moore, Lynn Nutuk, Liane Parker, Jan Stephens, Wendy Strong, Jeanine Walsh, Dr. Sue Wansbutter,

issue #6 | 2012 www.horsecountry.ca

Cover Stories

The Pre-purchase exam. What to expect?

Finding Mr. Right.

Kiirsten May’s search for her new horse

London Olympics 2012

Events in the ring

Exclusive news from behind the scenes

Smile please! Dr Kirstin MacDonald carries out a pre-purchase exam.

The Round Up 35

NAJYRC Endurance, Reining, Dressage

AQHA Youth World Cup

Interlake Riding Club

Photo Competition 24

Rules

This issue’s winners

In every issue 48

Connections

What’s Happening?

Subscription form

Stallion Avenue is now at www.horsecountry.ca/stallion.html Horses For Sale are now a Facebook Group “Horse Country Classified” - personal advertising only.

Issue #7-2012 is published week commencing October 8, 2012. Deadlines: Business advertisers: space closes September 10; Material closing, Horses for Sale and Classified line adverts: deadline September 17. Web adverts uploaded weekly.

Elsie Priddy / Elodon Connemaras.

The Connemara Pony in Saskatchewan.

A day at a clinic.

With Mel Hyland

Helping Hooves of Manitoba.

William gets “in the pink” for charity.

Mike Branch Q & A.

Collection and vertical flexion.

20 12 Questions:

with Marnie Somers

The Falabella.

The smallest horse in the world.

26 36

Ory Brown’s view of rodeo life. Take a kick at Equine Soccer.

Yes, your horse can play too!

River Ranch Equestrian

Meet Lucero and Anna.

Dominique Barbier Clinic

Learn from a French Classical Dressage Master

To mount a horse right. When right is wrong and wrong is right?

The Last Word:

Horse Sales terminology translated.

Items marked with an asterisk have supplementary reading * or archived articles at www.horsecountry.ca/archives.htm

Check www.horsecountry.ca for Breaking News!

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Buying a horse

Written by Linda Hazelwood, with files from Dr Sue Ashburner of Saskatoon. Photos by Linda Hazelwood.

the pre-purchase examination

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

You’ve decided it’s time to take a step upward in your horse ownership. Your goal might be learning a new discipline, or going higher in your current endeavours. You may be searching for a stallion prospect. You may have made a list of the qualities your next horse needs, and searched diligently to find a horse that meets those needs. Hmm. You’ve been introduced to Charlie. Is he the one? “Let’s do a pre-purchase exam to see if he can cope.” Hey, wait a minute. That’s not the first step. Before you call the vet to make the appointment you should make other assessments of Charlie to see if he will suit. Does his training and temperament match your abilities? Meet him

Smile please! The vet carries out a thorough tooth-totail examination.

a few times, catch him in the field, tack him up, blanket/ unblanket etc. Pick out his feet and groom him all over. Ride him at different times of the day. Does he behave the same whether his owner is there or not? Is it possible for you to take him on trial for a month? (But remember to have a proper short-term contract and pay for insurance cover in case anything happens to him.) If you and Charlie click after all that, then you can make the call to the vet.

What’s the purpose? The aim of the pre-purchase exam is to thoroughly evaluate a horse’s physical status and help determine if he will be serviceable for the buyer. The vet will make a number of physical checks (depending on the proposed use of the horse, and your budget) to determine if there is any potential for future problems.

Shortcomings of the exam It’s a snapshot in time, of “today”. It is not a guarantee of fitness, soundness, performance or future health. Neither is it an estimation of the horse’s monetary value. Nor can The hoof tester can discover problems in the foot.

the examiner assess your chances of selling-on the horse in the future. There is fertile ground for communication error, conflict and legal action if the pre-purchase exam is improperly or inadequately done, if the buyer receives improper notes and recommendations, or there is a reliance on verbal communication or assumptions. Note that we keep mentioning “the buyer”. The vet must always represent the buyer. The vet must not do an exam for a seller as it could be seen as collusion to present the horse for sale in a certain light. The seller has no right to access the pre-purchase examination results; those belong to the buyer.

Notes to the buyer Do not be unrealistic in your expectations. There is no such thing as a perfect horse. There is a misconception that buying a horse with a pre-purchase exam is risk-free (ie, that if something goes wrong that someone is to blame), that the horse will “pass or fail” the exam. The decision to purchase is still up to the buyer, not the vet carrying out the exam. Lots of vets don’t like to carry out pre-purchase examinations because of impossible buyer expectations. The buyer should always be present during the examination:  to make sure the correct horse is being presented;  to see what the vet is seeing (worth a thousand words);  to discuss ongoing concerns during the examination. (Many conditions are more easily understood if seen rather than described or written.) If possible, the seller (or agent) should always be present during the examination:  to answer direct questions about current and past medications, current or past injuries, lameness, vices, colic history, vaccinations etc. The seller does not have the right to see results of a pre-purchase exam or x-rays unless the buyer gives permission. The depth of the pre-purchase exam depends on the value of the horse, the buyer’s financial position, the ultimate use of the horse, and the expectations of the buyer. It will consist of four basic pages but as the buyer’s expectations increase, so does the depth of the exam and the size of the report. The cost can start around $300 and go up to $1,200 or more. The basic exam can take upwards of 2.5 hours. continued on page 6

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

The vet will want to know what you propose to do with the horse, for instance, jump (and at what height), dressage (at what level), cutting, reining, driving, ranch horse etc. He or she may also ask about your own experience and riding skills, and where the horse will be kept if purchased. You will receive a thorough written report including x-rays, ultrasound and diagnostic images if the vet recommends and you approve the expenditure. The results can be useful if you need to sell the horse in the future. If there was an issue (for example, results of an old injury) at this exam but it was proven not to have changed over the years, it can reduce your future buyer’s concerns and provide baseline values for the future. There is no pass or fail to this exam. The vet presents a report on the horse as it stands on that day, and it is up to the buyer to accept the horse in its present condition or not. A pre-purchase exam can form the basis of an application for insurance cover.

continued from page 5

If the buyer hands you an existing pre-purchase exam report, say “Thank you very much”, then continue to have your own evaluation carried out.

What is the vet looking for? Serviceability. He/she will evaluate the physical status of the horse and discover shortcomings. Decisions have to be made on whether existing problems are acceptable for the horse’s future function. The more strenuous and high calibre a horse’s future performance, the more significant are the minor problems. Soundness. There is no such thing as a perfectly sound horse. “Sound” is a blanket statement implying nothing is wrong with the horse, or has no conditions which could lead to future problems. X-rays are optional.

What does the vet do in the prepurchase exam?

1. A distance exam, to thoroughly identify the horse and record conformation aspects. 2. A standing physical exam. This will include taking

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Flexion tests are carried out on all four limbs.

the temperature, pulse, respiration (possibly using a rebreathing bag). Also inspected are the eyes, ears, nose and mouth. 3. A standing leg exam to discover bumps, swellings and scars, and check the tendons. 4. A standing foot and hoof exam. Many vets prefer to see the horse without shoes. 5. A moving musculoskeletal exam. The vet will ask you to move the horse on a hard surface to check footfall at the walk and the trot. The horse will then be lunged on hard and soft ground. 6. Flexion tests. In turn, the horse’s legs will be held up towards the body for a specific period of time then the horse will be walked off to identify whether unevenness occurs in the footfall. The interpretation of flexion tests can be a sticking point as many horses will be “off” in the first 10 - 25 feet after the test but can still considered normal. A positive flexion test does not correlate to lameness, but if any issues last more than ten minutes they will be flagged. Many horses may fail the flexion test but not fail pre-purchase exam. Additional tests are dependent on budget and proposed use, and can include x-rays, ultrasound, endoscopy, blood tests for Coggins, drugs etc. Tests for specific viruses can be included if there has been a recent epidemic. For instance, x-rays could be used to examine areas that a horse was predisposed to injure in its previous career; areas in which specific breeds are pre-disposed to problems; areas that need to be “normal” in the horse’s upcoming career; and areas that showed problems in a previous pre-purchase exam. If a horse presents with some problems during the pre-

purchase exam there is always the option to re-examine in the near future. For instance, a normally sound horse may pull up lame the day of the exam because it was playing hard in the field and slipped on ice.

Good luck Remember, the exam is not a pass or fail. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your responsibility to be present, ask questions of the vet, read the examination report and then decide to accept or reject the horse on the issues which present at the exam.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Dr. Sue Ashburner works in the Field Service section of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon. Her main interests are in general equine practice, with special interests in dentistry and dermatology. sue.ashburner@usask.ca Photos: thank you to Joey Barabash, outrider at the Assiniboia Downs for allowing us to use Dude, his 15 year-old Quarter Horse, as a model. Also to Dr. Kirstin MacDonald for demonstrating some of the processes of the pre-purchase examination, and Dr. Cyndia Kasper for helping to set up the demonstration. Also to Natasha Parent, exercise rider, for stepping in to help. Please note, when taking x-rays the vet and assistants will normally wear gloves along with the lead aprons but as this was just a demonstration, the machines were not switched on. Dr. Cyndi Kasper services Winnipeg and surrounding areas with a mobile veterinary service specialising in equine. cyndi@ckmobileequine.ca

By Jeanine Walsh in collaboration with Linda Hazelwood.

Elsie Priddy and Elodon Connemaras

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Anyone who knows of the Connemara Pony in Saskatchewan probably also knows Elsie Priddy. It was a labour of love for her to introduce the breed to the province. She lives on a third generation mixed farm located 10 kilometres east of Saskatoon with her husband Don, who raises commercial Herefords.

Elsie was born in Saskatoon and as a child, her only interest in dolls was having them “ride” her stuffed animals. Elsie loved watching the horses on TV and in the movies. A trip to the grocery store meant one thing: a chance to “ride the range” on the mechanical horse.

In the 60s her parents enrolled her in riding lessons offered by the Saskatoon YWCA, and purchased a lovely Appaloosa gelding from the farm that hosted the lessons. Sadly he came down with navicular and had to be euthanized - a difficult lesson for Elsie in the realities of horse ownership. Her next horse, an exceptional Appaloosa/TB gelding

Century Hills Aedan Zodiac (Aedan) and Elsie Priddy

word-of-mouth, they heard that Century Hills Farm in Ontario had a good colt for sale, so Elsie and Don went on a longer trip with the horse trailer. Don said, “We never go anywhere unless we are pulling a horse trailer!” Elsie was excited to return not only with stallion prospect Century Hills Aedan Zodiac (Aedan), but also a new filly, Glenn Erinn Emma. She threw a party to celebrate and introduce the Connemaras to some of the horse community. Elsie said, “Aedan met my criteria. First and foremost I look for ponies that have sensible temperaments and good movement. Then I check for good, functional, sound conformation and Connemara type.” Aedan has been competing in both Hunter and Dressage shows, and in the 2011 Spruce Meadows Battle of the Breeds he competed for Team Connemara in Compulsory Skills and Jeopardy Trail. He will be returning in 2012. At home, he works on cattle round-ups. As the breed has become better known, owners have started bringing their mares to Aedan and he now has some very good diverse partbreds on the ground. For instance, he has been crossed with a TB/Paint twice, to provide hunter/ dressage mounts, two Warmbloods to produce jumpers, a Morgan twice to produce a driving team, a TB to produce a hunter, an Andulusian/ Quarter Horse and a Welsh as well as being used to produce purebreds. For Elsie, Aedan’s greatest show achievement has been to allow her to continue to learn and progress in both Dressage and Hunting. She says with a laugh, “He has the temperament and ability to do high level dressage if I can learn. Aedan has the ability to jump much higher than I desire at my age, but has the

agility and temperament to give me the confidence to enjoy the sport. I try to take him at least once a week for a trail ride and he is a perfect gentleman whether we go out with a mare or a gelding. Other riders often forget he is a stallion. He knows to keep his stallion behavior of strutting for the mares and glaring at the geldings to when he is free in his pasture. Of course true to pony nature, food and being scratched are very high priority in his mind.” Elsie commented, “Don’t let the name ‘pony’ fool you. These gentle easy-keepers are sturdy enough for adults to ride.” The two geldings confirmed she had made a great choice of breed. She said, “They were incredibly easy to train; willing, athletic and very people friendly,” adding, “people familiar with the breed say that Connemaras are born broke!” Rills Finnian (Finn) and Rills Carrick Fergus (Fergus) were shown in Hunter and Dressage in Saskatchewan, taken on trail rides and cattle pennings. Both geldings were sold in Alberta. Ridden by Stacey Parker, Finn was one of two Alberta ponies that qualified for the large Pony Hunter Division at the Toronto Royal Fair and Fergus excelled in Eventing with Rebecca David. Rills Romany Lace was shown in Hunters, driven in Combined Driving and cattlepenned, before she produced three foals including two lovely fillies by Aedan that are still owned by Don and Elsie. Glenn Erinn Emma also sold to a home in Alberta and Elsie described her as a fantastic driving pony as well as a ridden pony who gave them two geldings with exceptional temperaments. continued on page 10

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

named Dr. Clarke was with her for 29 useful years and even taught Elsie’s daughter, Elan, to ride. Elsie joined 4-H Light Horse and then Saskatoon Pony Club. The older riders at the Pony Club taught the younger ones. In the 70s, the Saskatoon Pony Club brought in great instructors such as Robin Hahn, Dietrich von Hopffgarten and Hugh Graham. Though neither of Elsie’s parents came from a horse background, they became very involved in the Saskatchewan Appaloosa Horse Club and the Saskatoon Pony Club, serving terms on the Executive and enjoying the social aspect as well. Elsie was introduced to Don Priddy by a 4-H friend at a wedding in the family from whom she had bought her Appaloosas. Don had grown up just down the road, bringing the milk cows in daily by horseback and working with his father’s chore team. A perfect match: Elsie and Don were soon married. In due course, Elsie became a 4-H Leader herself, and daughter Elan joined Pony Club. Elsie says, “I felt there was a shortage of smaller, sensible mounts capable of jumping. When looking for a horse or pony for Elan, I researched many breeds and decided the Connemara Pony was just what I was looking for.” She discovered Doris Jacobi, a driving force in the growth of Connemaras in Alberta who provided her with a list of breeders. It wasn’t long before the whole family went on a holiday through Alberta, visiting as many breeders as possible. The next trip was with a horse trailer, returning with not only the colt and filly they initially planned to buy, but two lovely geldings to train as well. Sadly the colt they purchased as a stallion prospect had a tragic accident but by good fortune and

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

continued from page 9

When Elsie first started showing Connemaras in Saskatchewan very few people had heard of them but now most she meets are familiar with the breed, including the Western riders. Connemaras are capable of any discipline. Elsie said, “I once took Fergus in a working cow horse clinic and the clinician was impressed with his speed. Aedan did some reining training one winter and was developing a sliding stop but we decided we’d better quit if we were going to concentrate on dressage!” Connemaras are an athletic yet sensible breed and most have a temperament which can be adjusted to the rider’s need. If the rider asks for quickness the pony will give it. If the rider doesn’t ask for it the pony will be as quiet as they want. And they come back down quickly after you’ve asked for extra effort. It takes a long time for a foal to grow to maturity and more time for training, although Connemaras in most cases are so sensible that they are not difficult to handle. Elsie wants to have adequate time to work with the ponies she has, so will not “mass produce” them. She plans to continue breeding and training one or two ponies a year and this spring was proud to see Aedan’s daughter Elodon Maeve’s first foal – the first of the next generation. Elodon Connemaras was officially formed in 2003 and Elsie gave praise to her husband Don. ”He is a super supporter both psychologically and physically. He encourages me, provides hay, has built fences and great unchewable shelters from old grain bins and went on another vacation to bring Century Hills Aedan Zodiac (Aedan) and Elsie Priddy, checking cattle.

home a Connemara mare from Washington.” Their daughter Elan is their expert on Connemara pedigrees and assists in handling, training and breeding. She is a professional graphic designer, and designed the Elodon website and advertising. Their son Logan just completed his Agribusiness Diploma at the University of Saskatchewan, and farms with them. He contributes his electronics and mechanical skills to the business but prefers the other kind of horsepower. Elsie rides both English and Western, strongly believing good horsemanship is the same in every discipline. She trains the youngsters following the progressive skills of dressage, although using a Western saddle when first starting them. As an adult Elsie has attended or ridden in clinics on colt starting, working cow horse, dressage and driving. She has taken Aedan in jumping clinics held by Manitoba’s Al Matheson twice a year for the past several years. She said, “You can never stop learning about horses,

and I also take every opportunity to watch clinics.” Elodon Connemaras kept the family hopping in 2012, hosting a new venture, the Priddy Farm Hunter Pace and Trail Ride Series. It’s a friendly game in which teams follow a marked trail with optional jumps. The time closest to the mystery pace wins. Teams also “count the foxes” for draw prizes. Elsie attended her first Manitoba Royal Winter Fair in 2012. She commented, “It was fantastic, and made me nostalgic for the days when the Saskatoon Spring Light Horse Show had a huge evening crowd of spectators watching exciting Grand Prix jumping, driving and costume classes. I hope it will be possible to have Connemaras included in the Breeds of the World display in the future, so that more people can appreciate their special attributes and see why their owners love them so. www.elodon.ca de.priddy@sasktel.net 306-374-1703 www.canadianconnemara.org

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Text and photos by Linda Hazelwood.

Clinic day The early morning sounds of the barn: is it just another day? We listen to the huffing of the overnight stalled horses and then comes the crunch of tires in the yard, the bangbang of the trailer doors and the hooves coming down the ramp. The horses are curious and wide-eyed as they take in the new surroundings. Their noses and ears investigate new smells and spaces. The humans check out the space: Where’s the water? Get the hay. Where’s the bathroom? Where can I put my tack? Settle the horse. Get coffee? Check the weekend’s schedule. There is anticipation and excitement, tempered by nervousness. What will we learn? Can we meet what is asked of us?

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

It was no different at the Mel Hyland Clinic which took place at Murdoch Stables, Winnipeg, June 16 and 17.

On the first morning of any clinic, people are nervous and Mel Hyland commented, “I need to know what each individual wants from the clinic but I don’t want to put people on the spot.” It’s human nature that in a group of people who don’t know each other, it’s often hard to speak up and be frank about difficulties and skill gaps. Each of the riders was at a different skill level, the horses had different experience and it was Mel’s job to bring them together to learn. He commented, “I won’t get everyone up to the same stage here, but I will be able to instill the philosophy so they can keep working if they want, when they get home.” He added, “The good part of being in a clinic is the hands-on.” By the end of the weekend he had touched

Mel Hyland and his “borrowed” Second Chance rescue mare, Reba.

base many times with each participant to help them create a willing communication with the horse, without pulling and kicking. In his words, “I have to create the knowledge of how to use body energy and thought intention to get the result.” Manitoba riders were introduced to Mel Hyland as the winning colt-starting trainer at Horse 3 in April, and he has had many clinics booked because people liked what they saw. Hyland’s background is based on 20 years on the rodeo circuit and he said, “I learnt a lot from the bucking horses in terms of balance and feel. If you can ride one out of the chute and do the time with no injuries, the balance and feel are a given.” However, he always spent time with horses other than the broncs and became really serious about the horsemanship side of the business in the 80s. He refocused on the riding horses, starting colts and giving clinics. A good horseman directed him to the philosophy of Ray Hunt, in that the horse is never wrong, but Hyland had to assimilate his past experiences with the Hunt teachings. “Ray Hunt is about making you think,” he said. “There are no magic moves, just thinking horsemanship,”

he added. “The horse will do what he has to, to survive, rein away from the horse’s neck. Look where you want to no pressure. It’s easy to overdo asking the horse to listen go. When you lift the inside (left) rein you also lift your to the rider. The difficulty for those who only ride one shoulder. Don’t worry about the left rein when working horse is to know when to stop. Get the result and shut up. on the right. Just drop it. Pick up the left rein, slide your Otherwise it’s picking.” hand down, when he gives, let it go. Look for the horse’s The hard part for people to understand is that the horse nose (this also changes your weight in the seat slightly). has to figure out what the rider wants, and that when Don’t pull on the rein – pressure only. The hand should the rider stops asking, the horse is rewarded. Hyland not cross over the pommel.” commented, “In a clinic there are time limits on what can Other things he suggested the riders think about: be done and really the horse might need more time to “Where is the weight going in your body when you ask him get where it needs to be.” He to do something? You should prefers the three-day clinics be moving with his feet, not To be safe, the rider has to for this reason. ahead or behind.” decide who’s running the The morning of the first There was discussion day Hyland worked on the about saddle position, and show. mechanicals such as posture, Hyland said, “Before you go but the rider had to add the “feel” part. Horse sense anywhere sit as far forward in the saddle as you can. Sitting depends on feeling the movement, the change of seat, against the cantle pushes down on the horse’s back which whether there is intent or not, and catching the feel of could mean 350 lbs of pressure instead of 150 lbs, which “no intention”. makes it hard for him to operate. If you sit back, all you “The fun thing is to get people to that part rather than are doing is making him a pack horse plus you can’t get they just get on for a ride,” he said. your feet and legs under you and he will be unbalanced.“ Hyland finds it’s a fine line between being firm with He quoted Ray Hunt who used to say, ‘I like to cuddle my clinic attendees, and being tough enough to get the job horse with my legs.’ Hyland related this to “Put your joints done. The thinking rider needs to learn to read the horse, together and don’t sit sloppy. Everyone is built differently and what it’s all about. The horse wants to live an easy life, so maybe it is harder for some people especially if you but the rider’s job is to provide respect and communication, always ride the same horse and only once a week.” set the boundaries of who’s the leader and who’s the follower, so that the horse doesn’t run over people Who’s in charge? Hyland worked with his borrowed horse for a while. Reba Arena work was a “Second Life for Broodmares” rescue horse, coming The group worked on basic position, with feet under butts, off 30 days basic training at St Andrews Stable. Hyland sitting on pin bones. Hyland said, “If your feet are forward wanted her to recognize that he was the one who decided you can’t push the horse forward with the body.” When where she should stop, not her. He worked her at the gate, riders were working on corners, he said, “Pick up the left rein and ride the horse firmer with your seat. Keep the

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

continued on page 14

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

continued from page 13

giving her a “work zone” and a “rest zone”, all off one rein and inside leg to keep circling when she stopped in the place of her choice rather than his. Moving her forward, he made the wrong thing difficult and rewarded with a release when she chose the right thing. He also worked at the mounting block to help a clinic participant. When Reba touched noses with the block, Hyland commented she’s not “smelling” it, she smells it already. She’s “sniffing for Mel demonstrates “Ride forward, through your sternum” to Cheryl Fryer and Michael Moore. texture”. The mounting block work can be good training for getting on and off on a as a lesson in push and rest, disengage, ask again and stump, a wall, a fence etc. To an outsider some of it may keep asking, it was valuable. If Hyland had been riding have looked boring, a seasoned horse they with Hyland working Recognize the three speeds in each gait. You would not have had the on one horse while chance to experience need to know when the horse’s foot leaves the others watched. In that. the ground. He can’t move the foot if he has reality, the onlookers He was continually could have picked up suggesting, asking, weight on it. an essential lesson, promising, turning which was one of her ideas into work, timing, and when to stop. Of course, they couldn’t feel his ideas into rest, and told participants, “Ride forward, the horse under them and recognize the small gives, but through your sternum.” He worked on moving Reba’s hindquarters to move her To praise the horse, rub on the butt, not the neck. It keeps the seat down and the horse is in better balance. closer and closer to the corral panels so he could slide off her to sit on the top rail. “You can use the same principle to teach a horse to stand near a mounting block or other rest place. Drive her away, disengage, if she misses the spot, drive again. The mounting block is the rest spot. You pick the place to stop and drop the pressure. He also demonstrated groundwork, adding, “Spin the rope to say get away from me. When you send energy to the shoulder, she moves away. When you send the energy to the hip she

moves forward. Take the pressure off and she rests.” Hyland also discussed different clinicians and suggested, “Audit around until you find one whose style you like, that you think the horse will benefit from.”

your weight on your butt. There! You sat down!” When you take your life “up” you take his up too. When you take it down, he goes down too.

By the afternoon Mel had been able to evaluate the riders, so now it was time to work hard. He introduced the concept of cadence and the sequence of left leg/right leg/left leg/right leg. He taught, “Soft legs, sit deeper, dig in slow, all the weight in your seat and push with your sternum. Worry about one thing at a time. Move with the action on a loose rein, using the seat. Don’t think about his face, but his feet.” Rise and fall with the shoulder on the wall. “Turn your legs off!” (ie relax). He coached a participant, “Sit on your pinbones, put all

RIDER NOTES Angela Weday signed up for the clinic as she wanted to be a better rider, and learn technique. She said, “I am finding out that there are steps to everything you ask of your horse. You have to ‘get’ step one before you can start on step two.” Riding Cooper, Michael Moore competes in team penning and joined the clinic because of Mel Hyland’s background. He commented, “He has a different perspective to other trainers. I wasn’t sure what to expect because there was variable information on the web, not like some other trainers. I’m getting to be better; we worked on my seat position, legs on, off etc. Hyland’s not scared to make sure that you know NO-NO-NO! He’s firm but in a good way. He makes it difficult for the student to do it wrong.” Jenelle Cancade-Whyte (with 11 year-old Quincy) saw Hyland at Horse3 and liked what she saw. She boards at Murdoch Stables and has no horse transport so it was an obvious choice to join this clinic. She likes learning new things so she also intends to attend other clinics to check the similarities and differences. She said, “The underlying philosophy is the same, working on how the horse moves, why he moves that way, getting in the horse’s way, getting out of it, but the approach is a little different.”

You want to feel that you’re attaching to the horse with hands, seat, body, mind. Keep your mind on it, your focus. If you’re on the trail looking at the bird in the tree you’re not attached and he will take over because you’re not in charge. “I want this stuff, I want to ride my horse in such a way that nobody can see what I did to get him to do it.” This has to come from the gut. Hyland was suggesting mechanical postures, open hand/rein etc., but it’s the gut feel which will make you the better rider. To praise the horse, rub on the butt, not the neck. It keeps the seat down and the horse is in better balance. The hardest thing is walking in a straight line! Aim for the letter A: use your cadence and he won’t swing back and forth. To graduate your performance be more conscious of what you’re doing and thinking. Prepare to the position for the transition. Feel, timing and balance. The alternative is to get your stick and say “go here”, “go there”. Make it as comfortable as possible so he enjoys hanging out with us. If you’re conscious of what you’re doing and be consistent the horse will know and follow through. We’re all built differently as regards body structure so the results may come differently. Working on down transitions from a lope to a jog. The downward are the hardest. Still have to get in our horse’s way, but in enough time (do not pull but “hold his face”). Collect your own emotions. Plan your seat change and thought change that you will no longer support the canter but want a trot or walk. Get organized. Prepare to do it, then do it. Jog a few steps, then ask for a canter again. A few steps then ask for the jog. (Always working away from the group as going towards is where the horse feels safest.) The horse trainer can pick a time and keep working a horse until it’s time to stop but in a clinic there is always a time constraint which can create more problems. If the trainer is focused on a certain discipline, such as jumping, they can get so tied up in the event that it can get in the way of good horsemanship. Hyland teaches communication and effort, staying with the action of the horse. His philosophy is to help riders see the smaller change and lighter try, through consistency and persistence. You can reach Mel Hyland at 780-837-1774

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Teaching rhythm, timing, harmonies. Sound bites from the afternoon session

Ten horses and riders turned out for the parade in Ste Anne, led by “Pink” William.

Helping Hooves Manitoba: Pinkin’ up for Manitoba in 2012

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Horseback riders in Manitoba are joining together to raise money to help charities in the province. In the name of Helping Hooves of Manitoba,ten horses and riders showed up - and PINKED UP! - for the Ste. Anne’s Canada Day Parade. The star of the event was William, a Gypsy Horse owned by Karl and Cora Hohenberg of Cyclone Gypsy Horses, La Broquerie, Mb. In the name of the charity, William had been “divided into segments” and each segment had been available for sale to raise money for Helping Hooves of Manitoba. Sponsors could buy a segment, and William was “pinked” in the donor’s name. A unique concept, and one that raised more than $300 in just one week! Sponsors could buy a mane, a tail, a leg. Even a kiss on the nose. When William was all pinked up and took his place at the head of the Helping Hooves contingent at the parade, he certainly raised the attention of the people lining the streets.

Black Forest William is a 6 year-old Gypsy Cob owned by Karl and Cora Hohenberg of Cyclone Gypsy Horses, La Broquerie, MB. Some of William’s achievements include 2011 GCDHA Reserve Champion Stallion, and 2011 Rainy River Agricultural Society Grand Champion Draft.

Background In 2011 the Helping Hooves group had joined up with an Alberta association, Wild Pink Yonder, to ride for three weeks around south-central Manitoba, challenging the towns they passed through for the title “Pinkest Town in Manitoba”. Ste. Anne won the title of “Pinkest Town”, and in total the towns and riders raised $35,000 for Cancer Care Manitoba. In 2012 Helping Hooves Manitoba is focusing its fundraising activities on individual trail rides, flea markets, and fun days. This year net proceeds will be donated to Helping Hands For Manitobans With Breast Cancer. The season wraps up with a Trail Ride and Fun Day at Birds Hill Park, Winnipeg on September 16. For more information about the group, to join an event, donate, sponsor or volunteer, please call Pam Glover at 204422-8076 or email pam@helpinghoovesmanitoba.com. The Facebook page is “Helping Hooves Steppin Up for Manitoba”. Website is www.helpinghoovesmanitoba. com.

William was “pinked” using non-toxic, washable, eco-friendly livestock spray mixed with water. A couple of baths and he will be back to his normal black and white with no ill-effects. However, owner Cora Hohenberg says, “William loves to roll in mud and soak in the pond”, so the eco-pink was quickly replaced with eco-mud.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Dear Mike Q&A Mike Branch

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Collection; vertical flexion. Could you explain the process of achieving this?

Vertical flexion is the beginning of collection. Collection is a word very widely used today, in many different riding disciplines. It is a word that is very often misunderstood, and hard to define. Many times people will not talk about collection in front of their peers, because there seems to be such a wide definition of the word, and nobody wants to feel as if they are wrong. I will take a few minutes today to try to give a basic synopsis of the term “collection”, a decent understanding of what it means, and help you to get started in the right direction. Simply put, we can say that collection is vertical flexion with forward impulsion from the hindquarters. However, true as this is, it is a little more in depth than that. While it is true that vertical flexion must be obtained, and that the horse needs to drive forward from the hindquarters, the horse also needs to lift its belly and arch its back. This can also be referred to as a horse that is “in frame”. How can we achieve this? Let’s talk about vertical flexion. Vertical flexion is achieved when the horse breaks at the poll. Some people call this a soft feel, on the bit, or driving up into the bridle. In essence the horse actually gives us a soft bend at the poll which is where the cervical vertebrae begin. This is cervical vertebrae one, and cervical vertebrae two, (the Atlas and the Axis if comparing to

human anatomy). When the horse truly flexes at this point, his head will have a vertical shape to it. The horse will also feel soft and pliable in our hands. How can we achieve vertical flexion? I start teaching this the same as any other exercise with the horse: on the ground, with the horse in a rope halter. Let’s say I’m on the left-hand side of the horse. I will place my right hand on the horse’s neck and take hold of the halter knot under the chin (“fiador” knot). I then apply a small amount of pressure, and using a rotating motion of my hand allow the rope halter to massage the horse’s poll and bridge of the nose. I continue this massage until I feel the horse’s head suddenly drop into a vertical position. I have to be careful here not to confuse the horse into stepping backwards. If it does, I cannot release the halter until the horse stands still. As soon as the horse drops into a vertical position I must release any and all pressure on the halter. This is a good place to remind that pressure motivates the horse, and release of pressure teaches the horse. I will continue to do this exercise until the horse will break vertically as soon as I begin to massage. I like to teach this in the halter first as I always try to save the horse’s mouth until it knows what it should do, or what I am asking it to do. Once this is accomplished we can move into the snaffle bit and have the horse get used to having someone on his back. Please note the pictured horse is in a full bridle for high

that has no teeth.) I may not even have a wrinkle showing in the corner of the horse’s mouth. By doing this the horse can feel the bit slide up the bars of the mouth before I ever make direct contact, thus giving the horse opportunity to make a decision for itself to break into a vertical position. Once I have made direct contact in the mouth I will use a “direct” and “indirect” rein. Let me explain the “direct” and “indirect” rein. The snaffle bit is designed to be controlled by use of both reins. Imagine that we are riding our horse counterclockwise (ie to the left). The direct rein is in our right hand, our left hand holds the indirect rein. We will hold a slight steady tension on our direct rein with only enough tension to prevent the horse’s head from turning too far to the left . We should only see the corner of the left eye, and not see the right eye at all. We will then pick up our indirect rein, our left hand in this case, and feel for the horse’s mouth. We will bring up an ever-so-slight amount of tension, holding our left hand slightly lower than the right hand (or direct rein slightly higher than the indirect rein). We will use our indirect rein to massage the bar of the left side of the horse’s mouth. As soon as you feel the horse give at the poll, or break vertically you must release pressure from the indirect rein immediately, followed quickly by the direct rein. This will teach the horse that it has done the correct thing by giving you vertical flexion. (You will learn all this terminology as you progress on your horsemanship journey.) As you and your horse progress at this, you may ask the horse to stay in vertical shape a little longer each time

that you ask for vertical flexion, and then begin to ask for the vertical at the walk. Once you get to the point of being able to pick up your reins and ask for vertical flexion and get it at any given time, you may move up to the trot. Once you can get a really soft feel at the trot and vertical flexion at any given time, you may move up to the canter. Once you advance to the canter, please be patient with your horse and allow your horse to become completely relaxed at the canter before you ask for vertical flexion. This could mean a lot of cantering on your part but believe me the prize is worth waiting for. Not only will you have a horse that is willing to break at the poll and give you vertical flexion, but you will have a horse that is much more soft and athletic, and the longevity of your horse will be greatly enhanced. In this article we have learned about vertical flexion, the beginning stage of collection. We have taught our horse vertical flexion on the ground using a rope halter. We then advanced to the three-piece snaffle bit, and backed our horse. Once on our horses back, we began to teach vertical flexion via direct rein and indirect rein through massaging of the bars of the horse’s mouth. We discussed the necessity of once achieving vertical flexion that we ask our horse to stay flexed a little longer each time, and move up from the walk to the trot, and eventually to the canter. I hope that this article has given you a bit more understanding of the beginning stages – and I really want to repeat beginning stages – of collection, which is vertical flexion. Mike Branch travels internationally, from the southern US, to Canada, and the UK to start horses, hold clinics, and give lectures and demos. Mike has appeared on television in the US as well as on BBC, TV and radio, all across the United Kingdom. Mike may be available for your next function. Enquire at flyingbhorsemanship@gmail.com or call 865-548-0112. www.mikebranch.us. If you have a question for Mike please email it to editor@horsecountry.ca.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

level Dressage, but shows what your horse should look like while walking and maintaining “vertical flexion”. The snaffle bit is a teaching tool, and is not a leverage device. I like to use a three-piece snaffle bit. This bit has a bar connecting to each outside ring; the two bars are connected by a piece of metal called a “dog bone”, or “French link”. I prefer to not have the bit tight in the horse’s mouth; I will feel for the teeth with my fingers and make sure that the bit is only resting on the bars of the horse’s mouth. (The bar is the part of the horse’s mouth

We talk to people who are well-known in the industry to find out a little more about what makes them tick. Our focus? Leaders of national associations, influencers of activity, and top-class competitors. If there is anyone out there you would like to know a little bit more about, please email editor@horsecountry.ca.

Marnie Somers was interviewed by Heather Arklie.

Name: Age: Status: Lives:

Marnie Somers Retired (“I like to fool people about how old I really am.”) Live-in partner Wilf Davis On an acreage near Carberry, MB. I’m a country girl and I fell in love with the west after moving here from Toronto. Occupations: Former President of the Canadian Quarter Horse Association (2001-2012); Former President of the Manitoba Quarter Horse Association (1995); Current Member of Board of Directors of MQHA (1975-present); Current Director at Large of the American Quarter Horse Association (1996-present); formerly ran Manitoban satellite office of, and currently does contract work for, North American Equine Ranchers Information Council; served 5 years on Board of Directors of Equine Canada; current CQHA representative on EC’s industry council; freelance writer for horse and cattle publications (1997-present); web designer and internet marketer (2007present); owner, breeder, boarder and exhibitor of horses (1974-2011)

Growing up, who did you most admire?

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

I really admired my parents, both of whom were stars in their own right. My mother, Norma Sluman, was a published book author and my father, Ken Sluman, was a football player for the Calgary Stampeders and Edmonton Eskimos. They were both idols but for different reasons. I think I got my creative genes from her and my interpersonal skills from him.

If you could go back and relive one day of your life, which one would it be and why? That’s a toughie. I can’t think of one that was a particular highlight. I’ve had my good days and bad days and I think it would be hard to pick just one.

Marnie Somers and Wilf Davis, on vacation.

If I were starting over today, I would go on to university and get a degree. I wasn’t very studious as a teenager. I went to school for social reasons and didn’t pay enough attention to my studies. I did go back to school full-time for 10 months in 2006/2007 to Brandon’s Assiniboine Community College to get my web design certificate. It’s quite an experience to go back to school when you’re of retirement age!

If you weren’t doing the work you are now, what do you think you might be doing?

I’ve often thought I would have liked to pursue a career in law. I think it’s a very interesting field. Being a lawyer is somewhere else I could have used my writing skills. I’m also the type of person to look at things objectively.

Who do you consider to be your mentor, or a person you admire?

That’s easy—Wilf Davis. He has a lot of knowledge about the agricultural business and often teaches me about it. [He’s been a cattle sales consultant for many years and photographs cattle as a side business.] He is often my goto guy to run my writing pieces by. We also do business together, where our clients sometimes overlap. We have the ability to be together 24/7 and not get in each other’s way.

What is the most valuable piece of advice you ever received? It may sound corny, but to live by the golden rule—to treat other people the way I would like to be treated. It’s very important to respect other people because it also shows respect for yourself. We were not a religious family, but that was the guiding principle at home and I’ve tried to carry that through my adult life.

If you could live anywhere in the world where would you go?

What were the challenges you faced in your early working years?

Most of the issues I’ve had working with horses has been related to lack of confidence. There was a fear factor of being injured a few times and getting back into it. I didn’t get my first horse until I was 30 so it was a matter of learning how the horses would act and react in certain situations.

What is your favourite event location or riding area?

That would be the Westoba Agricultural Centre of Excellence, known as the ACE Arena. I was part of the team that worked very hard to get the facility upgraded. We lobbied the money-backers to have the Keystone Centre improved and I’m very proud of it. When you can fit 550 Percherons under one roof, you’ve got a pretty amazing building. The new barns, the new show ring and the new warm-up area are wonderful to have so close to where I live.

What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?

Wilf was into curling a few years ago. He needed two men for his next game and couldn’t find any substitutes on short notice. My sister Shirley was visiting from Montreal at the time. I suggested to her that we trick Wilf and tell him that we could find him two subs. He said OK. Then Shirley and I dressed up like guys, complete with horn-rimmed glasses and the attached mustaches, and we showed up to curl for Wilf’s team. I don’t recall if we won the game, but she and I had a lot of fun that night!

What are your guilty pleasures?

Reading. I’m an avid reader. I have an e-book reader and I spend far too much money downloading books. I have over 100 books on it after owning it for only one year. I probably go through a book a week. I’d much rather read than watch TV because I can learn more.

If I had to move, I’d like to live in Arizona. It’s such a wonderful western state and has many different microclimates, everything from the desert to the mountains. I’ve been there three times and am in a hurry to go back again when I get the opportunity. I’m not sure I would enjoy living with rattlesnakes, though!

What was your most memorable competition or training success?

In 1996, I showed two horses in the halter class of the AQHA Thanksgiving Classic, a 2 year-old gelding and a weanling filly. They were both Grand Champions. I’ve never had a double-header like that before. It was a rare treat for me!

Krystal Pelepiuk, proud new owner of BNE Sharp Customer (Casey), formerly owned by Marnie Somers.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

What would you do differently if you were starting your career today?

Falabella Falabella The Smallest Horse in the World.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

by Ishbel Moore. Photos by Jackie Crispin.

If you love to have horses around but can’t manage the full-size variety, you may want to consider a Falabella: the smallest horse in the world. The gestation period of the Falabella is anywhere between 320-340 days with a rare exception of 360 days. The tiny foals stand at 16-17” at the withers. Despite the small stature, it is common for a Falabella to live well past 40 years. All of this with Thoroughbred blood in the background, including the delicate constitution, they are considered as the original true miniature horses. Reportedly they have two fewer ribs and vertebrae than the normal horse or pony. As a Falabella breeder of almost 20 years in Canada and a friend of Angelica Falabella, Wendy Strong of Strong’s Falabella Miniature Horses in Port Maitland, Ontario can tell you that, “Yes, the horses are thought to have a rib or two less, but it is not known for sure if this is true in every Falabella. The breed was developed using Arabs, Thoroughbreds, even draft horses and a small spotted pony native to Argentina. The Arab is said to have a rib

or two less also, and this is probably where the Falabella got this trait.” This breed is believed to have originated in Argentina, South America, in the mid- to late 19th century, when an Irishman named Patrick Newtall had the idea for a miniature horse and he spent years developing his ‘small’ herd. When his daughter married in 1879, Newtall passed his knowledge and dreams along to Juan Falabella, his son-in-law, on their Recrio de Roca Ranch near Buenos Aires. Juan infused this new breed with Shetland ponies, Arabians, Criollos, Hackneys, Appaloosas, and the small English Thoroughbreds, which they are said to resemble. The program continued through Juan’s descendents and his family remains the primary breeder, with locations in Argentina and South Carolina, USA. Ideally, the horse-type body is slim, with small ears set wide, friendly and calm eyes, and small open nostrils. They are noted to have high withers, with a short, straight back continued on page 24

Falabella AF Emperador, a leopard appaloosa stallion born and raised at Angelica Falabella’s ranch in the US but now living at Northridge Falabellas in Harriston, ON.

foals per year. Many of our foals have been sold to people starting their own breeding herds in both Canada and the States. Some of our foals have been retained to participate in our local 4-H Miniature Horse Club where I am a Leader, teaching my members showmanship and harness driving. I find the breed is very intelligent and easy to train.” The FMHA Registration Association certifies the purity of the prestigious Falabella ancestry, and a pure Falabella is extremely rare, with only 900 registered with the FMHA. Most Falabella farms are found in Argentina but there dedicated breeders all over the world. Strong always recommends that people looking for Falabellas make sure the horse is truly a pure Falabella. “The proof,” she says, “is in the FMHA registration papers, since some breeders will try to sell a Falabella blend as a full blooded Falabella.” Pure Falabella horses are still relatively rare with approximately 2,000 in the world – around 100 of those in Canada – with the remaining numbers in the US and UK. Strong relates that she has had the opportunity to visit many Falabella farms in the US, and some in England and Ireland. Strong adds, “They make great first horses for children because they are safe and many horse loving older adults like the breed because of their versatility. They require less feed, space and daily maintenance compared to that of a full size horse.” While they can be trained to drive and show, they are not considered strong enough to ride, but can make ideal pets given their friendly and obedient nature. At very least a Falabella would provide an interesting topic of conversation, as well as being an ornamental and unique pet. Thanks to Wendy Strong of Strong’s Falabella Miniature Horses in Port Maitland, ON (www.stronghorses.com) and Jackie Crispin (www.northridgefalabellas.com) for their input.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

and a slightly sloping croup. Flowing manes and tails are a defining characteristic, as are the slender legs with a wellformed foot. The most predominant colors are black, bay, brown, gray and roan, but Appaloosa and pinto markings were the favourite colours of the Falabella family, so this is a reason they are common today. Falabellas can come in a variety of heights, however the most desirable are the Class A sizes of under 28”-34”, with some sources citing they cannot exceed 30” at the withers. Reference sources comment that these little horses can have some conformation issues surface in the very tiny ones. However, Wendy Strong is quick to point out that, “Falabellas come in all sizes. Some have dish heads like the Arab and some have a longer flat face like the Thoroughbred. The breed has no height limit; it is strictly a bloodline registry. I personally like the taller ones as they make awesome driving horses.” Although some horses mature at under 30”, with 28-34” being the popular size, others will grow to 40” because they have full size horse blood in their pedigrees. One short and stocky stallion was a favorite of the Falabella family. With the larger than life name of Napoleon, this stud matured at only 27”, weighed 100 lbs, and at the time of his death at 42 years-old, was claimed to be the oldest living horse in the world. Another highly revered stallion was named Menelek. He was sold to Lord and Lady Fisher of England, and was used to start the Falabella bloodline in the UK. A winery in California imported the first pure Falabella stallion into the USA – a leopard appaloosa named Chianti. Strong says, “All of our breeding stock was purchased from the US since we were … are the first breeders of pure Falabellas in Canada. We currently own twelve and maintain a small breeding program producing two to three

Photo Contest Rules.

Thank you once again to Don’s Photo for sponsoring our Grand Prize of $100. First place winners throughout the year will receive a prize from a selection of photography or horse products. This issue’s winners are on page 44.

1. Any Horse Country reader is eligible to enter except for professional photographers/media artists and employees of Horse Country and their families. 2. Maximum of three entries per issue; one entry per email. 3. Each print photo must be identified with your name, address, phone number and title even if all photos are sent in the same envelope. Digital photo entries must contain all the required information in the entry email. 4. To qualify, the photo should portray a scene or an event including horses according to the contest category. 5. Print entries must be maximum 8” x 10” unmounted; digital photo entries at least 4” x 5”, at least 1200 pixels x 1600 pixels (equivalent to 2.1 megapixel camera). If emailing using a proprietary “sharing” program, please click “keep original size”, not “email”. 6. All entries become the property of Horse Country/Woodstock Media Services and will not be returned. Horse Country/Woodstock Media Services will have exclusive rights to use the photographs or videos for any purpose, including publishing the entry in print or electronic form in future issues or on the web, for product reviews, or for promotional purposes without further notice or compensation. PLEASE NOTE: Many entries have come in of people with their horses. If the person in the photo is not obviously a family member we will ask for confirmation that he or she is in agreement with having their image published. ESPECIALLY where children are shown we will ask for their parents’ permission. Each issue of the magazine will award one winning photo and two runners-up. The winning entry from each edition will be judged for the grand prize announced in the November 19, 2012 issue. The photo first place in each edition will win prize(s)to the value of $50. The Grand prize winner will receive prizes to the value of $100. Prizes cannot be substituted. Deadlines for entries are: Issue 7-12, September 10; Issue 8-12 October 22. Please go to page 44 for this issue’s winners.

YOUR EQUINE & FARM FENCE SPECIALISTS Complete Electro Rope & Tape Systems * Bayco * ‘No-Climb’ 2” x 4” Knotted Mesh Horse Fence * Diamond Mesh * Vinyl Post & Rail * HorseRail * PonyRail * HorseCote * HotCote * (White, Brown, Black)

KUBOTA DEALER LOCATOR

ALBERTA Airdrie Tractorland 105 East Lake Crescent Airdrie, AB T4A 2H6 Phone (403) 948-7400 Toll Free 1-877-948-7400 www.airdrietractorland.ca Calgary Tractorland 26 Commercial Court Calgary, AB T3Z 2A5 Phone (403) 240-1977 Toll Free 1-877-240-1977 www.calgarytractorland.ca

SASKATCHEWAN Young’s Equipment Inc Regina, Saskatchewan 306-565-2405 www.youngsequipment.com

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

NEW

The Ferris Fault Finder the original from Pakton Australia Check your electric fence install fast Easy to use Rugged, waterproof, inexpensive Proven for over 15 years

• • • •

FERRIS FENCING •

•

ATTN. CATTLEMEN We now supply ‘Pasturepro’ composite self-insulating posts for permanent or rotational grazing

1-800-665-3307 Tel. 250-757-9677 Fax 250-757-9670 info@ferrisfencing.com www.ferrisfencing.com

•

ASK FOR OUR CATALOGUE

Find more Kubota dealers here: www.kubota.ca/en/dealerLocator.aspx

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

RODEO , THE ULTIMATE RUSH by Ory Brown.

Hi my name is Ory Brown and I am a grade 12 student , so this

with him was like being on a holiday. He made it all fun and

is my last year in High School Rodeo. I live near Lenore with my

interesting. As I approached the summer of Grade 8, Mom and

Mom, Dad, brothers Ace and Boe and sister Sky.

Shane discussed whether I was ready to head down thetrail of

When I was just a little guy my whole life revolved around a horse. Any horse, big, small, cute, ugly, I didn’t care, I just wanted

About July that summer my older brother decided that he was

to be near a horse. Fortunately we were in PMU so a horse was

going to rodeo with me. He didn’t ride much and never roped

not the problem. We did have a pony that I started riding at the

but he was a natural and by August we were ready and off to

age of 2 and was doing a barrel pattern at age 4. This was okay

the first rodeo. I was tie down roping and my brother Ace and

but not really what I was sure I was meant to do. With a lot of

I were team roping. This was the most nerve racking, exciting

trials on different horses we finally found one that I got along

thing I had ever done.

with. I can’t say that I was much of a rider. To be truthful I was

After a few rodeos, Ace decided that doing just one event

terrible. My Mom spent hours trying to teach me how to sit a

was not that much fun so onto the steer wrestling he went.

horse without falling off one side or the other. At about 6 years-

I watched for a while and decided this was something that I

old, things were starting to click. I could actually make a couple

needed try too. So now I compete in tie down, team roping and

of laps with just a little problem. Mom and I worked hard at this

steer wrestling.

riding thing almost every day and things did improve but not by leaps and bounds.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

My Mom decided after the first rodeo that my sister needed to be in a couple of events too. The day was just too long not to

The summer I was to turn 8 my Mom had promised if I helped

make good use of it. So barrels, poles, goat tying, breakaway,

her paint the inside of the barn we could go to whatever horse

team roping and ribbon roping were added. Now, a day at the

sale I picked and she would buy me the colt I chose. Well he was

rodeo was complete. For the next three years life was perfect,

a white and brown paint and I named him Apache. He was the

practice 2, 3, or 4 times a week and rodeo on the weekends

best horse in the world and he was all mine.

high school rodeo.

In Grade 9, Ace and I made it to the Canadians in Team

Now the training started, which was not quite as easy as

Roping and I made it in the Tie Down. The family loaded up and

I thought it would be. The years flew by and when Mom said

out to B.C. we went. It was a terrific experience. We also made

she could no longer teach me any more she set me up with my

it to the Nationals but did not go.

cousin Shane Brown. I thought Mom was tough! Shane didn’t

When I was in Grade 10 we once again qualified for the

take excuses: when he told you to do something with a horse

Canadians and the Nationals in Team Roping, Steer Wrestling

he really meant it. I spent a couple of years learning the art of

and Tie Down Roping. At the Canadians this time we knew what

horsemanship and how to team rope and calf rope. Shane not

to expect and did a lot better. The most fun was the people you

only became my mentor but also my best friend. The time I spent

met and the friendships you carry around with you. During the

Horse Country was proud to offer a scholarship package to

The runner-up was Ory Brown with “Rodeo, The Ultimate

Manitoba High School Rodeo Association riders for the 2012

Rush”. Judges commented, “It was very interesting in that the

season. The criterion was for students to use their creative

reader gets to follow the often difficult path of an aspiring and

writing skills and write about rodeo. For example, to write

successful rodeo champ. It’s a story of family, of learning and

about the effort it takes to compete in MHSRA – the trials and

growing, honesty and hard work.”

tribulations, etc.

summer we would have kids come out to our place and I would

get started. As the time ticks the nerves started to let me know

teach them how to rope and how to be a better horseperson, how

that they were right there with me. My family was always right

to get the most out of their horse by understanding the horse, and

beside me too, with good luck slaps and the loudest cheers you

helping to guide the horse to the place they needed to get with

can imagine. I did not come out with any saddles but I did come

them. Someone did this for me and I was only to glad to help as

out with a great feeling of accomplishment. I had once again

many others as I could.

made it to the Canadians, made some very respectable runs and had a lot of fun.

kids with their horses in the boxes and pushing their steers in

Grade 12 was the year I would rise above it all, except for the

the chute. After the rodeo was over there was always time to

fact that I tore the ACL in my knee in September and was out

rope the dummy.

for the season. Surgery came along in December and I was off

Grade 11 came along and I was cowboy of the year and Hi-

horses until the middle of April. April rodeos started slow for

point for the Manitoba High School Rodeo Association: my dream

me as I could only team rope. It wasn’t until the middle of May

had come true. I was finally a cowboy and off to the Nationals

that I tried the tie down roping again; steer wrestling will not be

I was going. They were held in Wyoming, and once again the

happening this year. I am at least back in the saddle and doing

family loaded up and away we went. I know now what stage

what I love. My sister still rodeos and my little brother Boe is in

fright is. The arenas were so big and everything was on the big

the rodeo world too.

screen. Nervous? I can’t even tell you. I was shaking so bad, I

Rodeo is an event that tests you every time you go out there;

was glad I didn’t fall off my horse. What a thrill it was! Tie down

there is no need for other artificial highs because you get the best

roping and team roping at the Nationals and hazing, ya I had to

rush from the rodeo itself. Be your best and help anyone that you

learn how to do that too.

can to succeed; that is what it is all about. My family is always

Nationals was not that kind to me but I left there at least

there to lend a hand and support me and my brothers and sister.

with my dignity. I hadn’t made a fool of myself and I would be

I have learnt so much about sportsmanship and friendship in the

back. We were at the Canadians once again. The competition

rodeo world.

was tough, the horses were ready, the cowboys were all keen to

Thanks Rodeo: you are the greatest. Ory Brown

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

My days at the rodeo were filled with helping the new rodeo

Finding Mr. Right

My experience buying a horse and tips for others By Kiirsten May

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

“If you want to get serious about hunters, you’re going to need a horse that’s willing to get serious with you.”

Manitoba jumping coach and clinician Andrew Curry was sitting aboard my 16-year-old American Saddlebred/Thoroughbred cross gelding, Handsome, on a cold, damp evening in November. His words confirmed something I’d begun to suspect. After a nine-year partnership, it was time to consider a new home for my beloved four-legged friend. Handsome had tolerated 10 months of lessons and a few schooling shows before firmly deciding that he had no interest in jumping. It was time to start hunting for a new mount. The last time I shopped for a horse, I was 12. My parents and I scoured classified ads and drove out to meet every “kid safe” horse listed in southern Manitoba. As I’m sure many seasoned horsemen and women can attest, the phrase “kid safe” has multiple definitions. It’s a miracle I

(Left) Kiirsten after her second date with Moe; (Right) in the ribbons at her first show.

My first date matched this example. While this sweet bay Thoroughbred was cooperative and well-mannered on the ground, I didn’t even try him over a cross rail. After climbing on and spending twenty minutes at the walk, trot and canter, I couldn’t get his nose off the arena wall. I confessed to Sheryl that I didn’t trust my ability to get him safely over an obstacle as I hadn’t yet been to stop him from counter-bending to look straight ahead. Another phrase to watch out for in horse classifieds is “keen to jump.”

our friends and family in the equine community what we were looking for, and through word-of-mouth, the right horse came along. Now, at age 25, this same method brought me to Mr. Right. Another boarder at BlueBear Farms told me about an 11 year-old Thoroughbred gelding that would be coming up for sale in the spring. This boarder even had a video clip of this horse competing in 2’6” hunters at a schooling show that she and the horse’s owner attended. The gelding belonged to Shelley

that a trustworthy amateur Hallick, owner of Ascero “Finding your perfect horse is hunter is a rare and valuable Stables in Starbuck, Manitoba. creature. I asked Sheryl about this going to be a long and difficult Finding and test riding horse one afternoon at process. It will be like trying to horses is a thrilling and BlueBear Farms, and she said, decide if a man is the one you daunting experience. A want to marry and spend the rest “Shelley’s in the arena right contributor aptly described now for the jumping clinic. of your life with after only one it last month on the popular Why don’t you ask her.” date.” equestrian rant blog, My third and final date SnarkyRider.com: took place at Shelley’s barn “Finding your perfect horse is going It actually means the horse gallops on February 6. It was love at first to be a long and difficult process. It headlong at the fence and no amount sight. Mojito, fondly known as Moe, will be like trying to decide if a man is of seat or pulley rein will stop him. was an ex-racehorse with a friendly the one you want to marry and spend On my second date, I met a beautiful personality and a great butt. What the rest of your life with after only big Holsteiner sport horse with lots of more could you want in a man? one date.” The moment I climbed aboard, I ability. Unlike horse number one, his Luckily, I had my coach by my side. flatwork was exceptional. His owner felt like I’d known Moe for years. I Sheryl Feller, manager of BlueBear originally told me that he’d be a great jumped a small course with him that Farms in Sanford, Manitoba, knew my partner to teach me in the ins and outs night. He had a beautiful rhythmic needs and my limitations. She helped of the hunter ring. After watching her canter and he was very honest to his me navigate the market to find some take him over a few low verticals, I fences. He made me feel secure, and appropriate suitors. realized his enthusiasm would have I immediately trusted him to do his I started my search on classified ad me packing my boots and helmet job. Moe had great conformation, a websites, and I can’t say that horse- and taking up knitting as a hobby great temperament, solid training and for-sale ads have become any more instead. experience in the show ring. I knew he reliable over the years. For example, Sheryl coached me over a few was the horse for me. if someone says their show horse has cross rails and he ran us through the Shelley was asking $5,000 for Moe, been “out of the competition ring for obstacle every time. I didn’t have the but after some negotiating, she agreed a while,” it means the horse has been skill to package his energy. to sell him to me for $4,500 pending soured by an inexperienced rider and When I was 12 years-old, my a prepurchase exam. As that was still no longer frames, bends or moves off family ended up purchasing a mare the leg. continued on page 30 that was never listed for sale. We told

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

didn’t die on one of these test rides. The second time around wasn’t any easier. I was in a unique position in my riding career. While I’d spent thirteen years in the saddle, I’d only just begun learning about the exciting discipline of hunter/jumper. I needed a mount that was going to build my confidence and give me an opportunity to advance in the sport. I was also on a limited budget. With the sale of Handsome and the generosity of one of my closest family members, I had $4,000 to spend on a new horse. While it seemed like a lot of money, I quickly learned

continued from page 29

beyond my budget, she also allowed me to finance the remaining $500 over four monthly payments. Moe passed his soundness tests on February 23, and on March 11, we moved him to BlueBear Farms. Moe is my perfect match and I couldn’t be happier with him. We’ve already accomplished some amazing together and I look forward to many more achievements. Here are my top tips for other riders who are in the market for a horse: • Get your coach on your side.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

They know what you need in a mount and have to work with the horse your choose. An experienced coach can bring incredible insight to the process and detect red flags in a horse’s conformation, behaviour and history before you even climb aboard. • Meet as many horses as you can. It’s hard to know what your money can get you. If you ride all the prospects in

your price range, you’ll have a better sense of a horse’s value and your own expectations. • Be realistic in your expectations. Figure out what quirks or qualities you can live with and what you can’t. Remember that when you take a horse for a test ride, he has no idea who you are and he doesn’t owe you a thing. Ask him lots of questions, but be patient and forgiving with his responses. • Take your time. It could take four months to find the right horse, or it could take a year. Between agent fees, vet checks and hauling, the costs associated with a buying a horse can quickly add up. Make sure you’re investing in a reliable partner who will be a joy to work with and can help you achieve your goals.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

events in the ring Dressage

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

The initial round of the Team Dressage kicked off on August 2 and 3. Ashley Holzer came out as Canada’s top scoring rider, earning 71.809% aboard Breaking Dawn, a KWPN gelding she co-owns with P.J. Rizvi. The score earned her 20th position overall, and qualified her to move on to the next round of individual competition (which is comprised of the top seven teams, as well as the top 11 individuals not already included as team members). Jacqueline Brooks rode D Niro (a Swedish Warmblood gelding owned by Brookhaven Dressage Inc.) to a score of 68.526%, finishing in 41st position individually. Canada’s final member of the Dressage Team, David Marcus, was eliminated after his mount, Capital, spooked during a downpour of rain midperformance and was unable to get back on course under the required maximum

Ashley Holzer and Breaking Dawn.

of 20 seconds. Because all three scores are required to count toward team standings, unfortunately Canada was eliminated.

LONDON 20120

Jumping

Jessica Phoenix and Exponential.

Eventing The Eventing portion was held over four days from July 28-31. Jessica Phoenix was Canada’s top finisher. Partnered with Exponential, her 14 year-old Canadian Thoroughbred gelding, Phoenix completed her first-ever Olympics, earning 22nd place individually on a score of 79.20 penalty points. Michele Mueller also completed the dressage and cross-country phases, but opted not to present her mount Amistad (a 13 year-old Thoroughbred/Belgian-cross gelding owned by Julie-Anna Pring) for inspection before the final show jumping phase. Unfortunately, fellow Canadian Eventing Olympic Team members Hawley Bennet-Awad of Langley, BC, Peter Barry of Dunham, QC, and Rebecca Howard of Salmon Arm, BC were eliminated in the cross-country phase, and unable to complete the competition. As a team, Canada finished 13th in the overall standings. Hawley-Bennet underwent a crashing spill during the cross country phase which gave her a concussion and a back injury, plus a couple of days in hospital. Apparently the air-inflated safety vest she was wearing reduced the actual impact she could have incurred.

Show Jumping began August 4 with a round that counted as both a team and individual qualifier. Eric Lamaze got off to an exciting start, putting in a clear round to tie for first place aboard Derly Chin de Muze, a 9 year-old Belgian Warmblood mare owned by Ashland Stables and Lamaze’s Torrey Pines Stable. Ian Millar made history, breaking a world record on day one of competition by officially making his 10th Olympic appearance. Competing aboard Star Power (an 11 year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Team Works), Millar had one rail down for four faults, putting him in a tie for 42nd position. R i d i n g G e o r g e , a 1 0 ye a r - o l d Hanoverian gelding owned by Brian Gringas, Jill Henselwood incurred four jumping and one time fault for a total of five faults, putting her in a tie for 53rd position. The final member of the Canadian Show Jumping Team, Tiffany Foster, made her Olympic debut aboard Victor, a 10 year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Artisan Farms and Torrey Pines Stable. The pair had two rails down for eight faults, putting them in a tie for 60th place. The second round of Show Jumping competition – which also counted toward both individual and team standings – followed on August 5. Unfortunately, Foster’s horse Victor was disqualified shortly before the competition started. While there was no accusation of malpractice, Victor was deemed unfit to compete on the grounds of hypersensitivity due to a small cut on a forelimb above the hoof. Being short one team member, Canada had to compete knowing that all three scores would stand, as they wouldn’t have the advantage of being able to drop the lowest of four scores.

from behind theen scenes An exclusive daily diary from Jan Stephens, Canada’s National Technical officer, who was invited to Steward at the Jumping events of the Games.

Henselwood was first to enter and had just one rail down for four faults, putting her in a tie for 47th position individually. Lamaze had a faultless jumping performance, but was slightly over the time allowed, incurring one time fault and finishing tied for the 13th spot individually. Riding in the anchor position, Millar enjoyed a fault-free performance, moving him up the individual standings to tie for 17th position. Canada ended the day in sixth position, qualifying to move on to the Team Final on August 6, where they finished in fifth place overall. Millar and 2008 Olympic Champion Eric Lamaze were the only two members of the Canadian Olympic Team for Show Jumping to advance to the Individual Final. The top 37 athletes from the original starting field of 75 qualified for Wednesday’s two-round Individual Final. Lamaze, 44, of Schomberg, ON, incurred 12 faults in the first round of the Individual Final and did not advance to the second and final round of competition. He tied for 29th position in the final individual standings. Detailed results from the 2012 London Olympic Games can be found at www.london2012. com/equestrian. You can also check out “Breaking News” on www.horsecountry.ca to see the events as they unfolded, the press releases, discussions and re-released press releases from Equine Canada with amended positions on the DQ fury.

July 31, 2012

At last I am getting excited at the prospect of acting as an FEI steward at the London Olympics! My journey is just starting as I am ready to board the plane for London in a few hours, however, my real Olympic road started last November when I received a letter inviting me to become involved. Of course, I said “Yes”, and was immediately deluged with orders. Orders to send pictures for identification, details to be checked by the London “bobbies” as to my safe character and worst of all, measurements for uniforms. The preaccreditation arrived two weeks ago and gave us free rides on all buses, the tube and special Olympic transport. Can you imagine two uniforms including shoes, hats, blazers for formal wear and a full casual outfit for work in the “back field”. The only thing not listed is a rain coat, and I imagine that will be a primary need. I am taking pins to trade, a camera and necessary life tools but little else. Of course my hope is that the clothes we receive on arrival will get me through most of the work days. Wish me luck! There will be three Canadians working at the show jumping venue, Kim Morrison from Calgary is on the jumper jury and Pat Chalmers from Quebec will be with me in the stewarding area. I look forward to reconnecting with many of the European officials that came to Kentucky for the World Equestrian Games (WEGS) in 2010. I am at the gate! I”ll let you know about my digs in London tomorrow.

Traveling is always a challenge isn’t it? I left for my connecting Toronto/London flight but Winnipeg was late and Toronto didn’t happen. Once again silver linings and I met an official from Manitoba from Triathlon in the same position. We shared dinner before loading on a later London flight. Next glitch – easy accreditation, easy transit to Paddington Station. Oh, did I mention my luggage is lost. No matter, it will find me, after all it is Air Canada. The glitch – they delivered me to the wrong hotel! Cost me £25 to fix that mistake but at least I wasn’t hauling my luggage!

August 1

Exciting this morning. We have collected our uniforms complete with hemmed pants. We have a briefing at 10 a.m. and see the grooms’ living quarters in Davenport House. We will share lunches with them but dinners are on our own. Most of the jumping horses are in. They can flat today in rings 1 and 5 but there can be no overlap with Dressage who start competing tomorrow. We have the first horse inspection for Jumpers tomorrow. Looks like I start at 6:30 a.m. with a jump school in ring 1. Thinking of you in Winnipeg. Jan. PS Weather is overcast but pleasant!

August 2

Officiating today was long but fun to get started with the jumping. All the horses went well but have you ever been in a situation where you suspect there are too many chiefs! That was us today trying to figure a “flow” from three separate warm up arenas to the hold area which crosses a pedestrian path. It becomes an FEI steward’s job to yell “GATE” to have continued on page 34

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Jill Henselwood and George.

July 30, 2012

continued from page 33 four volunteers reverse the arms to let the horses through! Great fun if you are the person yelling! Tomorrow we start with the real competition. My shift is 6:30 a.m. on a training arena, then somewhere for the competition, then monitoring the gallop track until 8 p.m. Dinner with a German steward tonight. Great fun! She showed me many pictures of dogs and horses. I responded with dogs, horses and grandchildren. I won! Looking forward to more tomorrow.

August 3

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

One of the best things about these London games is our accommodations. Right out of the park gates, manned by soldiers, sailors and green guys I can’t identify, are three pubs on the corner! 1. The Rose and Thorn. I can vouch for their food and their great “shandy” drink but across the street it is claimed they have upped the prices. 2. The Spread Eagle. Live jazz every night and the best sausage rolls on earth. 3. The posh pub on the other side. The Mitre Free House. Have to confess I haven’t been in there yet. I’ll let you know. Today was our first day working for the jump discipline as the jog was held following the last dressage ride of the day.

I started really early. The jumpers were allowed to flat from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in my assigned ring 1. It was fun to see familiar faces. Don’t let the riders tell you they are not excited. They are! The nations and the entourages that accompany the riders everywhere are highly visible and none more than our neighbors to the south! We have 6 warm up or preparation areas with a lunging and a long hacking track up to ring 5 situated at the top of the hill. Cross country started up near #5 but the day after XC was finished the whole course was removed! Because we are in this precious heritage park great care is taken to protect all the greenery. The rings are temporary, beautiful artificial footing and it seems a shame to think it all disappears on August 10.

Last night was a steward debrief followed by a “must do” reception to meet the grooms. I must say the grooms are all happy to be staying in the compound in Davenport House, no more than a two minute walk to stables. First training competition for jumpers is tomorrow. This counts for naught but gets the horses in the big ring. I spent the middle of the day assigned to help dressage – escorting the dancers from their warm up to the arena. Fun really – lots of different approaches in the preps. Jumpers are ramping up now.

August 4

I had the early shift in arena 2 with Charles from Qatar and Anna from Italy. We were all surprised when horses came out to school at 6:30 a.m. when the competition started at 10:30 a.m. We work from a flow chart which shows how the horses should end up in the hold area prior to entering the competition arena. My hope is that it looked smooth. Reality is that we had times when we scrambled to find the listed horses as they had the choice of three warm up areas! The competition went well but as 75 jumped and about 32 were clean, speculation is that tomorrow will be a mightier test. Following a quick bite of brunch at 3:00 p.m. our team of three monitored the walk between the stables and arena 5. This walk is timed from leaving the stables, arriving at the “top”. Leaving there and arriving back at stables. We have a radio at the bottom, on at the top and one roving midway. We finish the day with a meeting at 7:30 p.m. and then bed. Can’t even think of stopping at the pub tonight. Wussy, tired me!

August 5

First day of team competition and the barns are quietly, fiercely focused. These horses have great trust in their grooms, many of them hand walked miles and miles to stretch and relax and find a bite of grass after jumping yesterday. The grooms’ pockets are full of treats and mostly their hands are full of pats! My shift started at 6:30 a.m. in warm up area 3. We had little business until 8 a.m. or so but in international teams of three it is time for networking and sharing.

Early in the morning I heard of the jury’s division regarding Victor. My heart breaks for Tiffany. This is timing and Murphy’s Law doing their worst on her behalf. At the end of the competition Canada sits sixth. That, with no drop score, is digging deep from our veterans. Socially – I had a great meal at an original tapis place with a nephew. First time out since arriving. The schedules seem easier now that a rhythm is established and the egos are more tempered! Wish for good things on Monday.

August 8

Several times I started a review of the past few days. The devastation of Tiffany’s DQ and my inability to speak about it was tough. That being a “done deal” the team was brilliant, and classy. In the back ring, which I began to call home, we looked up at the competition arena. It seemed miles in the air and the atmosphere in that arena was electric and exciting. The riders by now have chosen a favorite or lucky warm up arena and we stewards know who will be coming and who might need hurrying along to meet the needs of live TV. On our dark day, Tuesday, while the team dressage was busy riding, team 4, my team, walked the stables. Lucky us, we were in stables when the results were announced and we had to muster the three winning dressage teams. You want to herd cats? Easy! Try herding grooms, riders, legs wrapped, tack on, hair done, gloves found, all while your radio is yelling 2 minutes ‘til medals. That I must say was as stressful as anything “jumper”. They looked polished and professional on the Telly. We, on the other hand, needed a stiff drink The finals for jumping went well. I really wanted Ian to win but it wasn’t to be. Excited country reps standing around the venues told a very “orange” (Nederlands) story. To finish our Olympics the 21 jumping stewards from all over the world met for a farewell drink at a pub found by Ray Egarr from New Zealand. At the “Kings Arms” we saluted each other and toasted the

team we became in a short 9 days.

North American Junior & Young Rider Championship The North American Junior/Young Riders’ Championships (NAJYRC) are held annually under the rules of the Federation Equestre Internationale – the international governing body for equestrian sport. The 2012 competition hosts the Olympic disciplines of eventing, dressage and show jumping as well as FEI disciplines of reining, endurance and vaulting. Many of the world’s top event riders, including many Olympic gold medalists, began their careers at the NAJYRC.

Endurance Canadian Endurance riders Lee Hutten, Emma Webb and Jessica Yavis won the team gold medal at the 2012 Adequan FEI North American Junior and Young Riders Championships in the

(Left to right) Canadian Endurance riders Lee Hutten (Parker AES), Jessica Yavis (Jahlad), and Emma Webb (Serloki) won the team gold medal at the 2012 Adequan FEI North American Junior and Young Riders Championships in the NAJYRC-CH 4* FEI Championship race.

NAJYRC-CH 4* FEI Championship race held July 20, 2012. In an incredible display of team unity, all three members crossed

Colette Hutten, Dessia Miller, Bob Gielen, Jan Worthington, Jaye

the finish line together to earn top honours in the first ever FEI 4*

Yavis, Rick Yavis, Eddie York, Savanah Wilson, Ashlee Miller, and

120 km race held at the Championships. Hutten of Chesterville,

Sharry Wilson. Team Veterinarian was Glenn Sinclair, Assistant

ON, riding Parker AES, Dessia Miller’s 12 year-old Arabian

Veterinarian was Deanna Spiker.

gelding, finished in 7 hours 33 seconds for fifth place individually. In sixth place was Emma Webb of Flesherton, ON, and and Serloki,

Reining:

Janice Worthington’s 12 year-old Arabian gelding, in a time of 7

Junior Individual champions, Canada’s Haley Franc and Jacs

hours 34 seconds. Jessica Yavis of Winfield, AB, riding Jahlad, a 10

Shy Boy produced the only chink in the otherwise impenetrable

year-old Arabian gelding owned by Jaye Yavis, rounded out the

armour of the US Reining riders who swept gold and silver in

Canadians in a time of 7 hours 35 seconds.

the Young Rider Team event, Individual Young Rider gold and

The gold medal winning Canadians finished in a total time of 21:01:42, and they were the only team to finish the race and

the Junior team title. The Junior team from USA South East had the narrowest of wins over Canada, just 1.5 points separating the two sides, while

be awarded a medal. “We came to the 2012 NAJYRC with an incredible team of

bronze went to USA South Central. Team Canada consisted of

young ladies, and their performance was fantastic which resulted

17 year-old Emily Birch (Sunup Dun It), Haley Franc (Jacs Shy

in a team gold,” said chef d’équipe Maura Leahy. Grooms were

Boy), Micaela Maharaj (Fancy Footprint) and Emily Wilson (Miss Cielo Chex).

Dressage Monica Houweling gained silver in the Individual Championships with Rifradin, while fellow-Canadian, Alexandra Reed riding VIP, took the bronze with 70.000. In the Freestyle Houweling took her second silver and another Canadian, Mathilde Tetreault, stood on the bronze medal step of the podium. Canadian, Mariah Sutton, took Freestyle silver with Renoir while Individual champions Uhlir and Sjapoer filled bronze medal spot. The Junior team title went to Canada/Quebec’s Frederique Bourgault (Pepin’s HG San Classic), Laurence Blais Tetreault (Pissarro), Naima Moreira Laliberte (Tolando) and Nicole Babich Morin (Foxfire) on a score of 200.642. Three of the team were enjoying their Championship debut, and 17 year-old Bourgault said afterwards, “I think we are speechless! Winning the gold is like a privilege for all the hard work we did”.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Left: the Canadian contingent; Below: the prized Podium shot.

By Stephanie Kwok

Take a K I C K at

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

If you are like me, you’re always on the lookout for new ways to have fun with your horse. When I saw a photo of two riders playing soccer on horseback with a giant ball, I knew I had to learn more about the sport. The smiles on their faces clearly expressed their delight as their horses competed for the ball with focus and energy. With that image stuck in my mind, I did some research into equine soccer. Although the sport has been played for about 100 years, it is relatively new, especially when compared to the ancient team sport of polo (over 2000 years). Formal leagues have been competing in Europe since the 1980s, and a few have now started up in the USA. Equine soccer is an exciting game that can be played with two competing teams or on one’s own. During play, the rider encourages her horse to manipulate an oversized ball at a walk or trot, using only his shoulder, front legs and nose. This activity challenges the rider to communicate effectively with her horse to control his lateral movement, gait, energy and, in competition, to also score goals. Sound like fun? Want to try it? You can get started right away by reading the following tips, based on my workshops introducing other riders to equine soccer:

Equine SOCCER

Preparation

Set your horse up for success with the big ball by doing groundwork that introduces him to other things that roll, such as large horse toy balls or empty barrels. A familiarity with these types of objects makes the transition to the big ball easier. Touch your horse’s legs with them, roll them towards him and encourage him to push these objects with either his nose or foot. Be attentive and reward as you normally would for courage and effort.

Equipment

Besides a horse, all you need to play equine soccer is a large, enclosed space, such as an arena, and an equine soccer ball. These oversize balls, often advertised as “cage balls”, have a heavy-duty, burst-resistant vinyl bladder and a separate cover of sturdy fabric such as heavyweight nylon. They can be ordered online through playground equipment suppliers. I sourced 36” and 48” balls through a Canadian supplier for less than $100, including shipping. Before you purchase a ball, determine the size you need for safe play. The diameter should not be less than the height of your horse’s breastbone. If the ball is too small, it could easily become trapped under his belly during play, creating a potentially explosive situation for the rider. At first glance, you might think that the ball’s bladder looks too small to ever fill the cover. Rest assured, it will. My advice: let the bladder warm up to room temperature before trying to inflate it, be patient, and use the right type of pump – one designed for the “high volume, low pressure” inflation of water tubes and towables. When the bladder is fully inflated, the cover will be stretched taut. A warning: unless you wish to repair your new ball very soon, avoid letting a horse play with it at liberty. An equine soccer ball can be damaged by a frisky horse jumping repeatedly on top of it!

Groundwork

Under Saddle

Once your horse accepts the ball’s motion and sounds, you can begin mounted exercises. At a walk, approach the ball on a line that is slightly off-centre, so that it will be kicked forwards by the action of just one of his front legs. Follow the ball, encouraging him to continue making contact with his leg. After a few kicks, walk off in the opposite direction. Repeat this exercise a few times, making sure to approach the ball from both sides, and end your session on a positive note. When you are ready for more of a challenge, weave the ball around cones or through a pair of goal markers. As your handling skills improve and your horse comes to “know” the ball, practise passing the ball to another rider. This is one of the most challenging skills to master.

Play a Game

While the size of teams is flexible, a game of 3-on-3 (two fielders, one goalie) ensures continuous action with all players involved. A game of 2-on-2, without goalies, also

works well. You’ll need an arena that is about 20m wide x 60m long with flat, dry footing so that the ball rolls easily. Hollows or ruts cause the ball to become stuck. Mark out the goals using “soft” objects, such as traffic cones or plastic barrels, placed at least 4m apart; the smaller the goal area, the greater the challenge. Leave space behind the goal of about two horse-lengths.

Rules for an Informal game

• Begin with the ball in the middle of the arena; fielders line up facing each other. • When a team scores a goal, their fielders return back across the centre line; defenders take possession at their end and advance up the field. • Goalies stay behind the centre line. • The team that kicks the ball out of bounds loses possession. • The ball should only be moved by horses, not riders. • Two periods of 10-15 minutes each with a 15-minute intermission is a good length for a game. • Avoid compressing the ball at the fence or between two horses. Back off and approach from another angle. • Walk or trot only, while in possession of the ball. • Sideline any horse displaying aggressive behaviour during play. Learning to play equine soccer has some obvious training benefits, and it makes a refreshing change from your usual routine. But I think what you’ll like best about this sport is that the horses enjoy it as much as we do! Stephanie Kwok divides her time between her family, her passion for horses and her work as a freelance writer and editor. Born and raised on the prairies, she now lives in BC where she plays equine soccer with her young Arabian gelding, Merlyn. Get in touch with her through her website,www.fraserwood.com.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Begin on the ground with short sessions of 5-10 minutes each. With your horse on a lead rope, walk up to the stationary ball and let him sniff it. If he won’t approach the ball, have a helper gently roll it toward his front leg and work on building his comfort with this contact before trying to touch the other front leg or either of his back legs. Be patient, and reward for the smallest effort. Once your horse will accept contact on all four legs, encourage his natural curiosity by gently making the ball roll away from the two of you, then follow it calmly together, and repeat. Your horse may surprise you with how soon he offers to start pushing it with his nose. Be alert to the motion and sounds of the ball – your horse may spook in response to a rebound off a fence or his body. The number of sessions you need on the ground will depend upon your horse’s reaction and comfort with the ball. If your horse appears to need more time with the ball to become comfortable, try these additional exercises: • bouncing the ball next to him and against him (hindquarters, too) • placing the ball onto his back • weaving the ball through cones • approaching a stationary ball at a trot • ground-driving with the ball • rolling the ball with a bit of force against the horse’s legs to simulate receiving a pass from another player.

River Ranch Equestrian opens its doors.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

by Liane Parker.

Manitoba Hunter/Jumper and Dressage competitor Lucero Desrochersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dream has come true! For years, Lucero recognized the need for a Manitoban facility which will work with beginners interested in obtaining English or Western riding skills. In May 2012, Lucero became the manager of River Ranch Equestrian where the aspirations of many budding equestrians may be turned into reality. Located on 80 acres just east of the ever growing town of Beausejour in the Eastman region of the province, River Ranch Equestrian is scenically located with the Brokenhead River running through the middle of the property. The facility has a 10 stall barn, an indoor riding arena, an outdoor riding ring. Spacious grass turnouts each have their own run-in shed and automatic waterer. River Ranch Equestrian will be offering a variety of options suited to meet the needs of novices or those returning to the sport of riding. They can even assist you in starting your young prospect horses. A string of happy school horses offer a safe and enjoyable way to see if equestrian sports are in your blood. Lucero has been working with horses for most of her life. Her father, Leo, who worked for International Aid Agencies, spent many years Lucero in competition.

working in South America. As a result his family was able to enjoy a variety of experiences not available to many people. Lucero was born in Colombia and started riding in the Dominican Republic at 6 years-old. Her mother, Catherine Desrochers, was also an avid equestrian. In 1991, she was able to train with the Dominican Dressage team then preparing to compete in the Cuban Pan American Games. She eventually became a Judge and was very involved in the horse community in every country they happened to be living in. In 1983 the Desrochers family moved back to Ottawa. Between 1983 and 1988, Lucero received further training in eventing with the LaFambroise family and with Ruth Koch for Dressage. During this time Lucero began her teaching career as an assistant instructor in Pony Club. However they moved to Peru in 1988. Here Lucero trained with military coaches that preferred a strong German influence. At this point, Lucero was jumping 1.30m and performing Dressage tests equivalent to the current Canadian National Level 4. Lucero also represented Peru as a Junior Rider at many international competitions in South America. It was during continued on page 40

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

continued from page 38

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

this time in Peru that Lucero began training young and problem horses. In 1991 the Desrochers family moved to Ecuador where they would live for the next 10 years. At this point, Lucero began competing more actively. At Dressage competitions, Lucero showed up to FEI level Intermediare 1 and had students up to and including Prix St George. She also competed in Show Jumping up to 1.50m with students working at 1.40m. She even managed to find time to compete in her favorite sport, Eventing, taking in several 2 Star Events. In 1998, Lucero owned a riding school with 32 mounts. Including students who trailered their horses in to the facility, it was not unheard of for her riding school to teach 75 riders in a single day! In order to represent Canada at international events a rider must first obtain approval from the national equestrian body, and in Luceroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s case she needed to send the Canadian Equestrian Federation (CEF) a taped video performance. After gaining approval, Lucero was able to represent Canada as a Junior Show Jumper at the

Above and opposite: Luceroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daughter Anna, with her Connemara.

American International in Bogata, Columbia. She won several International championships as well as an FEI award for athletes. Lucero and her daughter, Anna, have been back in Canada since 2001. After arriving in Winnipeg Lucero worked at a variety of stables and also maintained a number of independent riding students. In 2003, personal reasons required a move to the western provinces. Lucero did try a few other professions but always found herself

already won some championships in 2011 and 2012 (Open Training Level Dressage on Maureen Demkey’s amazing gelding, Endeavour). Current students have been successful in both Hunter and Jumper, and in the Dressage ring to Prix St George levels. Lucero’s first activity at River Ranch Equestrian was two week-long camps: one in July and one in August. Initially Lucero will be handling all the training duties but her long term goal is to develop young coaches as well as grooms. She has fellow competitors who are always looking for properly trained employees to help them while they are on the show circuit. Her plan for the school is to provide a safe, reasonably priced environment for children and adult amateurs (such as people coming back to the sport after raising families), as well as just provide a place for kids to come and enjoy horses and friends. This lady who never seems to be out of energy also still plans to continue competing herself, training her show students, and perhaps dabbling a bit in breeding sport horses.

Email: lucero@mymts.net, phone:1-204-770-6083

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

drawn back to an equine career. Most recently, it was Kyle King – well known USA trainer/rider – who convinced Lucero to help him prepare a stallion for jumping competitions at Spruce Meadows. In 2008, Lucero and Anna decided that Manitoba held more opportunity for family time so made this province their home. Anna has been blessed with the same natural ability as her mother and has been seen with her beautiful gray Connemara mare at many local events. Currently Lucero (an Equine Canada certified coach) is teaching both Hunter/Jumper and Dressage students and horses. She is also working with some young Arabs and Morgans as well as pleasure horses. She herself has

Story by Heather Davis. Photos by Lynn Nutuk

Dominique Barbier:

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

It all began a little over a year ago when Brenda McCann, owner of B & E Acres in Carberry, MB, decided to take a trip with one of her good horse buddies to Alberta to audit a Dominique Barbier clinic. Little did they know that a weekend trip for two horse crazy women would turn into a life changing moment in their never-ending quest for becoming better horsewomen! After leaving the clinic in Alberta, Brenda knew she just had to learn more from this wonderful Master. On the drive home her wheels were already turning as to “How can I get Dominique to come to Manitoba and, furthermore, would he come to my place?” A year later, after a lot of hard work, the dream came true as B & E Acres hosted their first Dominique Barbier clinic in June. Dominique Barbier is a world renowned French Classical Dressage Master who was born in France in 1950. He began his equine career at a Jesuit school in Poitiers and at 15 yearsold attended Crabbett Park Equestrian Centre in West Sussex, England, where he certified as a British Horse Society Assistant Instructor (BHSAI). In 1972, Dominique returned to England to attend the renowned Talland School of Equitation in Cirencester under the instruction of Mrs. Molly Siveright, FBHS, DBHS. For the next eight years, he sharpened his riding skills at a number of highly regarded facilities throughout Europe, following various disciplines, including showjumping, three-day eventing, dressage and steeplechasing. Dominique then based himself in Portugal for two years studying with the legendary Mestre Nuno Oliveira. Through his internship with Oliveira, Dominique’s riding skills were enhanced by perfecting his “mental and physical attitude.” This experience was a defining moment that

Host and Owner of B & E Acres, Brenda McCann with her 4 year-old Andalusian Golosina and Master Dominique Barbier.

inspired Dominique’s belief in keeping a horse “light and happy,” known as “la belle légèreté a la Française.” Since immigrating to the United States, Dominique’s teaching and passion for the “Art of Dressage” has reached many thousands of people throughout the country, as well as North Africa, Europe, Asia and Brazil. Dominique shares his wealth of experience with equestrians via clinics, symposiums, videos and books such as “Dressage for the New Age”. His avant-garde philosophy, focusing on the importance of mental communication and the understanding of the horse’s nature has been practiced now for over 40 years. Dominique’s foundation is entirely focused on the horse. Everything he does is to better the horse which in the end will allow for both horse and rider to “dance” together with lightness, balance and harmony. Although Dominique’s background is founded on French Classical Dressage, he has experience in teaching all disciplines and his lessons can easily transfer into other areas. Even those focused on Western disciplines can benefit greatly by Dominique’s teachings as they focus on equitation and can improve all riders of any discipline, not just dressage. On Thursday June 7, the clinic kicked off with an evening lecture with Dominique, which was a great opportunity to learn more about his teachings and his beliefs as well as have him answer probing questions from attendees. The clinic featured five riders with skill levels ranging from beginner to advanced. In addition, there were horses of all levels and various breeds, including an Andalusian, a Paint, a Friesian, an Appaloosa and an Oldenburg.

Dominique assisting beginner rider Heather Davis with performing a shoulder-in with her mare.

Clinic participants from left to right, Janette Reinson, Dominique Barbier, Janette McEntee, Sharmyn Hamilton, Brenda McCann and Heather Davis.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Riders in the clinic learned teaches, but he also engages first-hand the proper use the audience. He believes of lunging the horse to every clinician should be help develop balance and prepared to answer any roundness. In addition to question and have an lunging, Dominique also explanation as to why they includes “in-hand” work do things. whenever he rides and taught Dominique truly riders the techniques and lights up a room and is correct implementation of someone whom you want doing “in-hand” work with to be with. One can relate your horse prior to riding. it to when you see one of Dominique is one of those those clinicians who within rare clinicians who not only minutes have the ability to instructs the riders but also have horses connect to them Clinic attendee Sharmyn Hamilton performing proper lunging technique with her Friesian gelding. and as the phrase goes “in their horses, as each day he rode each of the participant’s horses. Horses attending the clinic their pockets”. Dominique has this ability with horses and with had a dramatic and noticeable change each day, becoming lighter people as well. People gravitate to him as he has a powerful and lighter as the clinic progressed. positive energy, tons of patience and a warm inviting personality The highlight for many of the riders, both beginners and that makes you feel like you have known him for years. Attendees enjoyed many different stories and lessons learned advanced, was when Dominique assisted them in performing a Piaffe on their horses. Riders were blown away and everyone from Dominique throughout the weekend, some equine based was utterly amazed to see all the different levels of horses and and others of a more personal nature. One of the small lessons riders doing these maneuvers and all by the second day! which was evident throughout the clinic was the power of A key feature of Dominique’s teachings is the simplicity. smiling. Dominique always had a smile on his face and a twinkle Really, it sounds too simple to be true. But in fact it is just that in his eye whether he was in the midst of teaching a student, … simple! He informed participants he believes it is the ego of telling a story or riding a horse. The smile is a powerful tool for man which has made riding difficult by adding complicated not only communicating with our fellow humans but with our maneuvers, equipment, training aids and languages to make horses as well. Dominique was the essence of happiness and ourselves feel better. We think in order to succeed it has to be when in the presence of such a wonderful person and master difficult. When in reality, it really just needs to be simple and horseman, one just can’t help but smile! easy! This was clearly illustrated throughout the clinic with the Dominique will be coming back to B & E Acres again for another exclusive various levels of riders and horses. Dominique taught riders all clinic October 19 – 21st. Riders who attended the June clinic have already that is required is a few simple maneuvers and once you get signed up for another opportunity to learn from this fabulous Master. them under your belt you can do anything ... including a Piaffe Dominique promised them that if they do their homework and practice what he has taught them, at the October clinic he will help with incorporating the double and much, much more! bridle into their riding. The October clinic will feature 8 spots for riders instead Dominique is an exquisite trainer and person in himself of 5 spots, so if you are interested in participating as a rider or auditor be sure as not only does he actively insert himself into each lesson he to contact B & E Acres. Email Brenda at bmccann1@mymts.net

Photo Contest Fiona Bugera’s entry came in with a story attached. When you read the story you’ll understand why we bent the rules a little and picked these as our first place. Fiona wrote: I’ve attached four pictures for the photo contest and the reason I attached four is because they are a progression of the ritual Sébastien, my 2 year-old son, has when he rides. (If I can only submit one, I suppose it would have to be the one of Sébastien giving Jaffa a thank-you kiss on the nose). We practice natural horsemanship and we definitely are passing this on to our kids. Whenever Seb rides, there are a few things he must do. These are all things he started pretty much

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

1st place

on his own or from what he’s seen us do. 1. When riding, he needs his cowboy hat just like his dad and is always smiling while on his horse. 2. After his ride, he always leads Jaffa to a nice patch of grass for a bit of a feed afterwards. 3. Then after unsaddling and before putting Jaffa back out to pasture, he always has to give him a kiss on the nose to say thank you. Jaffa is an 8 year-old Welsh cross quarter horse cross whatever else happened to be in the pasture that day and is just a magnificent friend for Sébastien.

Photo contest entry form. Deadlne for the October competition is September 10. Photographer’s name: _________________________________________________________________ Age (if under 18) ___________ Address, postal code: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email:___________________________________________________________

Phone number: _____________________________

Describe the photo, where it was taken and who is in it: ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Mail entries to: Horse Country, Suite 203, 23-845 Dakota Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2M 5M3 or email as high-resolution attachments to editor@horsecountry.ca. Include the above information in the body of your email.

Charna Humeny of Teulon, MB wins second place for her picture of their son, Logan, trying to feed two of their horses some of their hay.

Editor’s note: only one of the first place photos will go through to the grand final.

Contest category: “Horse friends” When choosing the winners of our contest we will look for photos that “capture the moment” of horses with their friends. The friends can be other horses, animals, people. While our criteria is based upon content, technical details such as focus, exposure, etc. will be judged and we reserve the right not to award a prize if photos do not meet publication standards. We cannot accept photo entries printed on a home printer. Photo entries should be a minimum 5” x 7” at 300dpi. If you think you’ve “got a winner” and are unsure of how to send it digitally at high resolution, it may be worthwhile getting it professionally printed.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

2nd place

2012 AQHA Youth World Cup Report Team Canada Highlights:

Back row (l to r): Della Cryderman, Stefanie Lepp, Brittany Ruecker, Amanda Daly, Haley Stradling, Laura Anne Berensci, Quinn Brandt, Karen Westerback, Megan Daly, Carly Epp. Front row: Rianna Storey, Joannie Backes.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Photo courtesy of Jessie Godin

A major initiative of the Canadian Quarter Horse Association (CQHA) is to co-ordinate and field a team to represent Canada at biennial American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Youth World Cup competitions. These competitions are educational, leadership-based events for youth members from around the world, culminating in showcasing skills learned in an atmosphere of friendly competition. Each participating country is eligible to select up to five competing riders, two alternate riders and three non-competing youth (leadership members). The host country provides a pool of horses of various ability levels, which are subsequently grouped into lots of five horses each. During the opening ceremonies, teams draw to determine their assigned group of five horses. Teams then designate riders to compete in Western Horsemanship, Western Pleasure, Western Riding, Hunter Under Saddle, Hunt Seat Equitation, Showmanship, Trail; Reining; and Cutting classes. Points earned by placing in the top ten of each class are tabulated to determine the overall team placings. Two sets of medals are awarded to the top ten exhibitors in each class -– one per judge, per show day. Team selection criteria are determined by each participating country, as is the method of funding team fees and travel expenses. Team Canada members are chosen from applications submitted to the CQHA Youth World Cup Committee based on selection criteria for each biennial event and is published on the CQHA’s website. Funding for Team Canada fees and travel expenses is cost-shared by AQHA/CQHA, provincial/regional Quarter Horse Associations, CQHA affiliate disciplines, corporate and/or individual sponsors, and team members’ families. The CQHA Board of Directors congratulates the entire 2012 youth team, coach and manager and their support groups both on site and back at home for their cumulative efforts. You were great ambassadors for Canada and we are very proud of all of you. For more photos and congratulatory Facebook postings, visit Team Canada’s FB (Public Group) page www.facebook.com/#!/groups/194707480629380/ Also CQHA’s own FB page http://www.facebook.com/#!/can.quarter.horse.assoc

• Canada was one of 15 countries who participated at the 2012 AQHA Youth World Cup, July 21-29, Kreuth, Germany. • Team Canada won four GOLD and two BRONZE individual medals. • Team Canada members won Championship buckles in Cutting and Hunt Seat Equitation. • One Team Canada member won trophy spurs as the overall Reserve High Point Rider earning 58 points. • The Right Luke, donated by Chloe Shaw-Jackson, drawn by Team Canada and ridden by several team members, was the Reserve High Point Horse of YWC 2012 earning 51 overall points. • Team Canada finished in fourth place, with 98 total points. Team Italy was first with 144 points; Team Germany was second with 134 points; Team New Zealand was third with 110 points; and Team USA was fifth with 92 points. The 2012 Team Canada five competing riders placed as follows: Joannie Backes, Carlsbad Springs, ON • Hunter Under Saddle – 5th in Show #1; 9th in Show #2 • Hunt Seat Equitation – 7th in Show #2 Quinn Brandt, Steinbach, MB • Western Horsemanship – 4th in Show #1; Carly Epp, Caledon, ON • Western Pleasure – 10th in Show #1 Rianna Storey, Cambridge, ON • Showmanship – BRONZE MEDAL in Show #1 • Western Riding – 4th in Show #2 • Hunter Under Saddle – BRONZE MEDAL in Show #1; 5th in Show #2 • Hunt Seat Equitation – GOLD MEDAL in Show #1; and GOLD MEDAL in Show #2 = HSE Championship Trophy Buckle • Reserve Champion High Point Rider YWC 2012 earning 58 overall points (received set of trophy spurs) Haley Stradling, Aldergrove, British Columbia • Cutting: GOLD MEDAL in Show #1, and GOLD MEDAL in Show #2 = Cutting Championship Trophy Buckle. The 2012 Team Canada alternate riders were Amanda Daly, Pritchard, BC, and Stefanie Lepp, Rivers, MB. The 2012 Team Canada leadership members were Laura Anne Berensci, Paris, ON; Megan Daly, Pritchard, BC; and Brittany Ruecker, Balcarres, SK. The 2012 Team Canada Coach and Team Manager were Coach Della Cryderman, Murillo, ON, and Manager Karen Westerback, Thunder Bay, ON.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

As part of their 50th Anniversary celebrations, the Interlake Riding Club held a fun show on July 7. Some of the games sounded easy, but have you ever tried to bite a piece of licorice hanging from a hockey stick?The â&#x20AC;&#x153;potatoâ&#x20AC;? stake race was difficult too, but a great time was had by all. Photos by Linda Hazelwood. All the photos from the show can be seen at www.horsecountry.ca/gallery.html

Connections:

Kobau Luck Be A Lady

2009 AQHA Palomino Filly. Lucy is very well put together, very good conformation. Has had lots of groundwork. Easy to catch and lead, stands tied. Trailered multiple times. Good for the farrier, and to saddle and bridle. Not being ridden as rider was pregnant. Very curious mare, a quick learner. Never been unsound or lame. Asking $1,000 open to all serious offers. www.allbreedpedigree. comkobau+luck+be+a+lady Linda Bennett, www.Kobaufarms.com 204-437-4688. bennettls@live.com

the economical section for buyers and sellers.

10yo Tennessee Walking Horse gelding. Approx 15.2hh. Black roan sabino with star and two hind stockings. Trail horse, gaited, cattle familiar, ranch raised. Contact Marsha Trinder (T W Ranch â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Russell, MB) at 204-773-2711 or email trinder@xplornet.ca. More horses available for sale. Check websites: www. twranch.ca, www.twhorse.com; Fan Page www.facebook.com/twranch; Videos www.youtube.com/twranch.

HACKNEY PONY:

Registered Hackney Pony Gelding 8 yrs old. Well broke to drive single/double, good on trails and in traffic and loves attention. Up to date with shots and farrier. For more info please call Fran at 204-8862685 or cell (204) 886-7285.

TRAILERS Advantage Auto & Trailer Sales

10yo Paint Gelding. Approx 15.2hh. Sorrel Sabino. Trail horse, used to cattle, ranch born and raised. Contact Marsha Trinder (T W Ranch â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Russell, MB) at 204-773-2711 or email trinder@xplornet. ca. More horses available for sale. Check websites: www.twranch.ca, www. twhorse.com; Fan Page www.facebook. com/twranch; Videos www.youtube. com/twranch.

For all your trailer needs! Featherlite, Bison, Titan, Interstate, Tarnel, Triton, Duralite. Specializing in affordable living-quarter horse trailers. Sales, leasing, rental & financing. FINANCING! 0% down with extended terms up to 20 years! Toll free 1-888-571-8899, local 204-729-8989. 770 Highland Ave., on the TransCanada Highway, Brandon, MB. www.aats.ca. (1-13)

Reg 3 y.o. roan bay mare.

Extremely pretty, well minded. Bred for barrels, but has been working cattle for cutting horse shows. For more information call Robert Krentz 1-204-434-6132 Asking $3,500.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Kiefer Built Genesis 3-horse angle haul trailer with large dressing room and rear tack. Demo model. Will consider trades. (MB dealer #4143.) Darin Bouchard, Darin Bouchard Sales, Cypress River, MB. 204526-7407. (6-12)

FOR SALE: Buggy: very good condition and nice smooth ride. Has been used in show ring and also for trail rides. Can be pulled by horse or pony. For more info please call Fran at 204-886-2685 or cell 204-886-7285.

TACK

FOR SALE: Brown Nylon Halter/Bridle Combo $20. NEW Justin Ladies Boots size 8.5W $40. NEW Burgundy Nylon Halter & Matching Lead $20. Professional’s Choice Wrangler Hood size L $45. Brown Fleece Western Pad $15. Horse size Black Rope Halter $6. 35” Rear Cinch (middle piece only) Dark Leather $20. NEW Concho’s w/Breast Cancer Logo $25. NEW Unique Ranch Headstall w/cow head conchos & buckles $45. NEW Brown Nylon Rear Cinch & Billets $20. 36” Neoprene Cinch like new $35. NEW 36” Neoprene Cinch w/Gel center $35. 7” Loose Ring Snaffle Bit $20. 6” Heavy Eggbutt Oval Snaffle Bit $20. 7” D Ring Copper Mouth Bit $25. NEW Purple Sidewinder Spurs $20. Email zhaan35@mts.net 204-461-2035. (6-12) FOR SALE: Passier Grand Gilbert Dressage saddle. Medium tree, deep seat,17.5” and gusseted panels. Built in May 1998. 27.5cm. Also comes with a CanPro leather girth and stamped 28. Has been extremely well taken care of and is in excellent condition. No stirrups or leathers though could include for additional cost. Asking $1250. Linda Bennett. www.Kobaufarms.com. 204-437-4688. bennettls@live.com (6-12) FOR SALE: 17” Theo Sommer Dressage saddle. Excellent condition. comes with matching leather girth. 17.5” flaps. External thigh blocks. $1,000. Linda Bennett. www.Kobaufarms.com. 204-437-4688. bennettls@live.com (6-12) FOR SALE: 16” Martin Saddlery Saddle c/w FQHB Axis Tree Rear Cinch w/Hoof Pick & Holder Front Cinch. Breast Collar 5* Saddle Pad. Nylon or Original Martin Leather Latigo Cashel Stirrup Turners. $2,250 OBO. Will ship. zhaan35@mts.net. 204-461-2035. (6-12) FOR SALE: Thorowgood English saddle in excellent condition, $275. English bridle only used a few times in excellent condition, $75. Ariat half chaps only worn once (men’s medium) in new condition, $75. 204293-3485.(5-12) FOR SALE: Lightly used brown Western trail saddle, including cinch, bridle, bit and saddle blanket. $600 OBO. Peggy Archer 204-638-5541. parcher@mts.net. (5-12) FOR SALE: Saddle Suit. Size 8. Navy. Includes jacket, pants, vest, two shirts, extra matching fabric. Excellent condition. Used one season on the Arabian show circuit. $90. Sally. 204-851-0406. (5-12)

Rates

All rates are prepaid. Add GST or HST as applicable in your home province. (No PST.) CONNECTIONS SECTION Horses For Sale valued over $750. Picture section. $48: Picture and 30 words text. Guaranteed 1/9th page entry. $24: 30 words text only. Guaranteed 1/18th page entry. Horses valued less than $750 will be placed in the line adverts as below: Line Advertising FREE: Subscribers’ personal line adverts, four times each year. Maximum 30 words per advert. Email to contact@horsecountry.ca or call 1-866-8862425. 70c per word: Subscribers’ business line adverts. 90c per word: All other personal and business. $11: Add a picture to any line category. Bonus web: Horses for sale, line ads and small box ads in the Connections section include at least ten weeks on horsecountry.ca. Email: Send write-up - no more than 30 words, and picture no smaller than 3” x 2” at 300 dpi - high resolution. Please do not sharpen or crop the file. Pictures from web sites, video cameras or smart phones are not acceptable. Photographers proofs not accepted. Please send picture as an attachment, not inserted into the body of the email or Word document. If using Kodak Share or other email program, click on “keep original size”, NOT “email”. Regular mail: Send photo and maximum 30-word write-up, with an SASE if you want your picture returned. Paid adverts will be uploaded to the web each weekend. For security, please phone credit card details, don’t email. Email: contact@horsecountry.ca Phone: toll-free 1-866-886-2425, local 204-256-7467. Fax: 204-257-2467. Mail: Suite 203, 23-845 Dakota Street,Winnipeg, MB R2M 5M3 Call for annual display rates in this section. Web and print packages available from $250. NB - Insertions not restricted to the current headings. We welcome new categories. PERSONAL ADVERTISERS Linda Hazelwood 204-256-7467 or 1-866-886-2425; contact@horsecountry. ca. DISPLAY ADVERTISERS Anita East, 204-275-1101; anita@horsecountry.ca.

FARRIERS

Natural Hoof Care, Warren Boles, Erickson, MB. Phone 204-636-2153, Cell 204-740-0196. Email wkboles@gmail.com, www.bbquarterhorses. com.(5-12)

EQUINE THERAPY

Start a career with horses at the Academy of Equine Assisted Learning, 306-763-0386, www.cartierequinelearningcenter.com. (8-12)

DRIVING

WANTED: Looking for a cart suitable for a pony. please email birdjournal@ymail.com or phone 807-543-3552. (4-12a)

Do you want to reach the heart of Canadian horsepeople? The CONNECTIONS section is an economical way to get your business or service noticed. Call Anita at 204-725-1101 or Linda at 204-256-7467

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

ATT E N T I O N , , , BU S I N E S S E S !

Eddies Sharpening AUTHORIZED REPAIR CENTRE FOR Andis -- Dannyco/Forfex Oster/Sunbeam -- Wahl

For clipper sales, service and blades. eddies@mts.net www.mts.net/~edsharp

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

204-832-3999 202 Wallasey Street, Winnipeg, MB

What’s Happening? Send your show and clinic dates to contact@horsecountry.ca for free insertion. (Limited to date, association, event and contact details.) Other events and additional information can be inserted at a per-word rate. Editor’s decision is final. Call for advertising rates for display insertions. 1-866-886-2425.

ALBERTA AUGUST 25-28 Edmonton. Equanimity Edge Vertebral Realignment Course. www.equinerehab.ca. 1-888-378-4632. SEPTEMBER 15-21 Rocky Mt. House. Equanimity Edge Equine Massage Therapy Course. www.equinerehab. ca. 1-888-378-4632. JANUARY 11, 2013 7th Annual Stable Owners’ Seminar. In conjunction with the 31st annual Horse Breeders & Owners Conference at the Sheraton Red Deer. Alberta Horse Federation..

BC SEPTEMBER 1-7 Langley. EquanimityEdge Equine Massage Therapy Course. www.equinerehab.ca. 1888-378-4632.

SEPTEMBER 21-23 (Multiple events!) Manitoba Horse Council Equestrian Challenge, Birds Hill Park. www. manitobahorsecouncil.ca.

OCTOBER 5 MQHA/AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse Show. ACE Arena, Keystone Centre, Brandon, MB. Larry Clifford 204-727-3661 or email: scotiaopt@wcgwave.ca.

SEPTEMBER 22-23 Westman Dressage. Joan Johnston at Stonehill Farm. www.karsridingschoolcom. Lori 204727-2922 or email stonehillfarmmb@hotmail. com.

OCTOBER 6-8 MQHA Thanksgiving Classic Quarter Horse Shows. ACE Arena, Keystone Centre, Brandon, MB. Sun & Mon are split/combined and double judged. Larry Clifford 204-7273661 or email: scotiaopt@wcgwave.ca.

SEPTEMBER 29 CWHA. AliDale Farms, Steinbach. PAC and NAERIC approved. calicofarmmb@mymts. net. SEPTEMBER 29 - OCTOBER 5 Brandon. Equanimity Edge Equine Massage Therapy Course. Sidonia McIntyre, RMT, CEMT. www.equinerehab.ca. 1-888-378-4632.

OCTOBER 19 Dressage Winnipeg Awards Banquet Ft. Gibralter, Winnipeg.

continued on page 52

SEPTEMBER 8-14 Kamloops. Equanimity Edge Equine Massage Therapy Course. www.equinerehab.ca. 1-888378-4632.

MANITOBA AUGUST 25 Eriksdale Horse Show. Kelly & Ruby Stuart, mgstuart@mts.net. 204- 739-2119 or Linda Wainwright sargil2@mts.net 204-739-2058. AUGUST 25 MTRC 50/25/15 Ninette Fairgrounds. AUGUST 26 Mounted Relay. Erin McNab 204-528-2671 emcnab@millereq.ca. Check website for updates. www.mbtrailridingclub.ca. SEPTEMBER 8-9 MRCHBA Futurity & Quarter Horse Show. Eryn Butterfield. 204-792-6777.

SEPTEMBER 15 MTRC 50/25/15, Seasons Ranch, Sidney. Iris Oleksuk 204-272-6154. irisolek@rainyday.ca. Check www.mbtrailridingclub.ca. SEPTEMBER 15-16 Helping Hooves. Fun Day and trail riding, MHC facility, Birds Hill Park. Pam Glover, 204-422-8076. skcricket@hotmail.com. SEPTEMBER 21-23 Central Canada Slide N Spin and NRHA Western Canada Affiliate Finals. ACE Arena, Keystone Centre. Brandon. crhashowdirector@ccrha.com.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

SEPTEMBER 8-9 Dressage Winnipeg Autumn Classic Bronze Competition. Manitoba Provincial Dressage Championships. Birds Hill Park. Show Secretary Cat Fouillard, 204-952-3314. email: cat@dressagewinnipeg.com

continued from page 51 OCTOBER 19-20 (To be confirmed). Wheat City Stampede, Manitoba Superhorse 50/50 Sale and Futurity. www.manitobasuperhorse.com. OCTOBER 19 NAERIC Barrels of Cash Prospect Sale. OCTOBER 8-9 or 15-16 Turtle Mt. 15/25/50 miles. Myna Cryderman 204-534-2390, myna@goinet.ca. Pot Luck Saturday. OCTOBER 13-14 Westman Dressage. Joan Johnston at Stonehill Farm. www. karsridingschoolcom. Lori 204-727-2922, email stonehillfarmmb@ hotmail.com.

ONTARIO SEPTEMBER 15 Atikokan Equine Trail Ride/Poker Derby at the Charleson Rec Area site. cathyhoard@xplornet.ca. 807-929-1456

QUEBEC SEPTEMBER 21-23 Canadian Equestrian Championships, Bromont.

SASKATCHEWAN SEPTEMBER 15-16 Fall Classic & Prairie Harvest Arabian and Open Breed Shows. Moose Jaw. Prize list Jade 306-740-7240 or www.saskarab.com. SEPTEMBER 22-28 Saskatoon. Equanimity Edge Equine Massage Therapy Course. www. equinerehab.ca 1-888-378-4632. NOVEMBER 19-24 Canadian Western Agribition. www.agribition.com.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

Sunday, September 23, 2012 Eriksdale Arena, Eriksdale, MB Viewing 11:00 a.m. Sale 1:00 p.m. $760 Added Yearling Futurity 12 noon

Sale horses includes

halter-broke weanlings yearlings - some from the futurity broodmares/saddlehorses Catalogues available from Kelly or Ruby Stuart at 204-739-2119 or email mgstuart@mts.net. Or check out the catalogue on the town of Eriksdale website: www.eriksdale.com

To Mount A Horse Right Mounting a horse is actually

your right and step so your

very easy if it is done

right is to the wrong and

properly.

now your right is opposite

A rider can only mount a

its left and left the right.

horse from one side because

To right right is to the left

a horse only likes to be

and to right is wrong is to

mounted from one side.

the right, but backwards,

The left side is right and the

the right is right and the

right side is wrong. You’re

left is wrong only when

right to be left and wrong to

your right is on its wrong,

be right. If you mount from

and the left is on its right.

the front, you mount from

Switching right to left and

the right, which is then the

left to right is wrong. Right

left because your right is its

is wrong and left is right

left, and the left the right,

only from the front or else

keeping in mind that the

the left is right and the right

left is right and the right

is wrong.

is wrong. Put your left to

Got it?

Here’s the line-up of advertisers for this issue. When you contact any of these businesses, don’t forget to tell them, “We saw you in Horse Country!” (Even if you saw their advertising in many other places too.) Advantage Trailer Sales .. 48 John Deere .. 11 BlueBear Farms .. 48 Kubota Dealer Locator .. 24 Brahma Boot .. 55 Kubota .. 25 Buckeye Nutrition .. 31 Decks & Dormers .. 40 Canvasback Pet Supplies .. 45 Miracle Ranch Equipment .. 7 Connie Levesque .. 44 MJ Quarter Horses .. 52 CQHA .. 49 Ocean Trailers .. 52 Cream of the Crop .. 52 One Insurance .. 39 Diamond K Fall Sale .. 51 Parkland Ranch .. 44 Diamond Shelters .. 56 Penner Farm Services .. 50 Dodge Ram .. 17 PineRidge Equine Park .. 52 Dust Off .. 41 Poco-Razz Farm .. 47 Eco Nets .. 49 Prairies North magazine .. 30 Eddies Shapening .. 50 Riva’s Remedies .. 45 Equiline Horse Feeds .. 40 Sea Blend .. 41 Equine Rehab .. 50 Tack in the Box .. 47 Ferris Fencing .. 24 Top Spot Stables .. 48 Grunthal Auction Mart .. 51 Westgates Horse & Country .. 50 Happy Horseback Saddles .. 27 Wild West Farm & Garden .. 27 Happy Trails Ranch & Feeds 7 WW Stables .. 50 Integrated Bio Systems .. 7 HORSE COUNTRY Publication Schedule 2012 Issue Space Material # booking closing 7-12 Sept 10 Sept 17 8-12 Oct 22 Oct 29 1-13 Dec 17 Dec 31 2-13 Feb 11 Feb 18 3-13 Mar 25 Apr 1 4-13 May 13 May 20 5-13 June 17 June 24

Published week of Oct 8 Nov 19 Jan 28/13 March 11 Apr 22 June 3 July 15

Catch the excitement October 19 & 20, 2012 at the Keystone Centre, Brandon, Manitoba www.manitobasuperhorse.com For more information call Eryn Butterfield - 204-792-6777 or Julie Bridgeman - 204-847-2112

Platinum sponsors

Total prize money $19,680.00

SALE

October 20 at 3:00 p.m.

Only foals sold at this sale are eligible to return as 2 year olds. Lot #1 will be a WILDCARD. The high bidder for the “Wildcard” will have his/her choice of any weanling in the sale. Guaranteed $10,000 first place money for the 2014 futurity. Foals offered in the 2012 sale are eligible to win this money. Watch the website for the 2012 catalogue and new sale initiatives.

Gold Sponsors

SWN Intl. - Flaxbed Farrell Agencies Ltd. Vanguard Credit Union - Hamiota Helstrom Performance Horses Westgates Horse & Country Horse Country Magazine Days Inn Memory of Ken & Janie Bridgeman

Silver Sponsors

Wheat City Cowtown Murray Chevrolet Olds Rafter P Quarter Horse Ranch K & R Stuart Quarter Horses

Bronze Sponsor

Photography By Carolynn

Held in conjunction with the Manitoba Rodeo Finals and the Wheat City Stampede

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

FUTURITY

Friday October 19, 8 a.m. Saturday October 20, 8 a.m.

Hatfield Financial & Insurance Services Inc. Feedrite “Feed to Win Program”

Horse Sales Terminology Translated

BIG TROT: can’t canter within a two mile straight-away.

NICELY STARTED: lunges, but we don’t have enough insurance to ride him yet.

TOP SHOW HORSE: won a reserve champion 5 years ago at a show with unusually low entries due to tornado warnings.

HOME BRED: knows nothing despite being raised on the back porch.

BIG BONED: good thing he has a mane and tail, or he would be mistaken for a cow.

NO VICES: especially when he wears his muzzle.

BOLD: runaway.

GOOD MOVER: runaway.

ATHLETIC: runaway.

NEEDS INTERMEDIATE RIDER: runaway.

SHOULD MATURE OVER 16 HANDS: currently 14 hands, dam is 14.2, sire is 15.3 hands, every horse in pedigree back 18 generations is under 16 hands, but *this* horse will defy his DNA and grow.

WELL MANNERED: hasn’t stepped on, run over, bit, or kicked anyone for a week.

PROFESSIONALLY TRAINED: hasn’t stepped on, run over, bit, or kicked anyone for a month.

RECENTLY VETTED: someone else found something really wrong with this horse.

TO GOOD HOME ONLY: not really for sale unless you 1) can pay twice what he is worth 2) are willing to sign a 10 page legal document to allow current owner to tuck him in beddy-bye every night.

EXCELLENT DISPOSITION: never been out of the stall.

CLIPS, HAULS, LOADS: clippity clop is the sound his hooves make as he hauls butt across the parking lot when you try to load him.

FOR SALE DUE TO LACK OF TIME: rider cannot afford to spend anymore time in the hospital.

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca

QUIET: dead (almost).

SPIRITED: psychotic.

WELL BRED: mother and father are also brother and sister!

ANY VET CHECK WELCOME: please pay for us to find out what the heck is wrong with him! SUITS EVENTING: no brakes.

SUITS DRESSAGE: no accelerator.

SUITS ANYONE: except us, we hate him!

issue 6-2012 | www.horsecountry.ca