Horse country 6 2013 by Linda Hazelwood

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The View From Here August 16, 2013

It’s been a funny few weeks for me and my horse. After bonding beautifully with me, coming to meet me in the pasture and sticking like glue to my shoulder at liberty in the arena, all of a sudden she kept running away when she saw me. She is on outside board with seven other horses and when I went to get her from the corral, would duck and dive around the other horses to avoid me. One day I spent three hours just making her walk and trot, trying to emulate round pen work, but she wouldn’t give in. It was a breakthrough when she actually stopped and looked at me. (Step back and lower the energy!) Over my visits to her I brought out all the tricks I had seen at Horse 3, horsemanship clinics and I read books to try and find out why she was doing this. Was it the ride we had where we were out for longer and went faster than we had before? Was she upset with the thunderstorms? Was she in heat, or was she just being a mare? After a period I got her to at least step towards me when she stopped, and when some experts advised that at this stage the odd treat would help, we progressed to being able to touch her on the nose but if I raised my hand towards her neck (even with the halter hidden in my fingers) she backed away. It wasn’t just me, either. She wouldn’t go near anyone else. The light dawned when someone told me she had been badly shocked by the electric fence. A person had been standing near her when it happened. Maybe she was frightened that she would get shocked again. Result! I was able to get her out of the large corral and manoeuvred into the round pen away from the other horses. I could see immediate progress. She made herself work but gradually gave in and walked right up to me. I was able to rub her all over, halter her and hug her. What a silly girl! And how horses can fool you! The previous paragraphs were written August 15. August 16, here we are back at square one again. Circling the other horses and running away. She came up for one treat but then wouldn’t come near me again. So it’s back to the drawing board.

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 25, Issue #6-2013: September 2, 2013. 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 $15.50, two years $26. All prices include taxes applicable to the province of delivery. Single copy print price $5.25. 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.

Happy trails and summer showing to you all - and say thank you to your

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horse every time it allows you to catch it!

Editor and Publisher

This issue’s cover is Jamie Hackett riding the registered Morgan Mare, Sapphire, at JDH Stock Farms, Stratton, Ontario. The farm focuses on breeding quality western-working family Morgans which are used in their family ranching program with Horned Hereford Cattle. See more about the Western Working Morgan Horse on page 22.

EDITOR Linda Hazelwood 1-866-886-2425 or 204-256-7467 (local) editor@horsecountry.ca CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Ishbel Moore, ishbel@horsecountry.ca ADVERTISING SALES Linda Hazelwood, editor@horsecountry.ca OFFICE ADMINSTRATION Eldeen Stark, contact@horsecountry.ca SUBSCRIPTIONS contact@horsecountry.ca LAYOUT & DESIGN The Creative Crew. creativecrewcanada@gmail.com ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTIONS: Mary-Anne Bach, Len Carroll, Ashley Fudge, Babs Hamilton, Holly Madsen, Ishbel Moore, Michael Rohrmann, Irene Schweckendieke, Emma Tarvis.

issue #6 | 2013 www.horsecountry.ca

On the cover 4 7

Cowboy, Horseman, Poet, Legend: Len Carroll Resume With Horses

Michael Rohrmann, Movement Trainer

How the West was Won

By Len Carroll

We are not born as horse riders, we have to learn balance The Western Working Morgan Horse Ears: Your horse’s other eyes

Birthday prize competition

Michael Rohrmann: Helping the horse balance

Twelve questions

with Sandy Donald

Birthday Prize

Daisy and Sue tackle Agility

Subscriber Draw

The perfect seat

Grit and Determination

The rescue horse in the Top Ten at NAJYRC

29 30

North American Junior & Young Rider Championships What Rodeo means to me

A scholarship essay from Holly Madsen

Tornado!

How 7 horses coped

Synchrogait

The gene test for gaitedness

Zip Lock fly control

Test out the science

On the Bookshelf

Competition and results

The Round Up 20 20 21 26 35 37 39 39

Manitoba Horse Council Turn N Burn for the Cure Helping Hooves Event-Full August Manitoba Driving Society CCRHA Wheat City Reining Derby Calgary Stampede The Prairie Spirit Riders Manitoba Cutting Horse Association

In every issue 36 40 43 47

Around and About Connections/Classifieds What’s Happening? Subscription Draw

Issue #7-2013 is published week commencing October 14, 2013. Deadlines: Business advertisers: space closes September 16; Material closing September 23 . Horses for Sale and Classified line adverts: deadline September 23. Web adverts uploaded weekly.

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

Searching for the final bond

Sitting straight with Irene Schweckendieke

Heart Like an Ocean Hoof Prints on My Heart Horses, ink.

Happy Birthday Horse Country!

It’s Horse Country’s 25th birthday in 2013! To celebrate, horse for sale text ads and private classifieds will be FREE for the rest of this year. (30 words max, private sellers only). Picture $24 + GST. Businesses call Linda at 204-256-7467 or email editor@horsecountry.ca FIND US ON FACEBOOK: Horse Country Horse Country Classified

Check www.horsecountry.ca for Breaking News!

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Cowboy... Horseman... Poet... Legend... Len Carroll

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by Babs Hamilton

Top: Life took Len through some narrow and dangerous trails in the early days. Centre (Left) Young Len. (Right) Len in June 2013. Above: The hands at Copithorne Ranch. Len is 2nd from left, at the front. (Provincial Archives of Alberta.)

I first saw on Len Carroll on a small stage in the community center of a tiny hamlet in SW Manitoba. The event was a Cowboy Poetry Gathering and the hall was filled with folks who had come to listen to the stories, poems and songs that told of the cowboy lifestyle, past and present. As he got on the stage, this well built man in his early 80s tilted back his cowboy hat and took the microphone. He viewed the audience, and in a scratchy voice recounted the story of a wife sending out her cowboy husband to buy her a bra. The audience roared with laughter while Len continued in all seriousness. His presence on stage held them captive. After that initial encounter, we often crossed paths at other events over the years but I never really spoke to him, admiring him from afar instead. It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until much later (when asked to do a magazine article about him) that I discovered the story behind this true legend.

beautiful rolling hills of SW Manitoba. Driving up to his homestead, I noticed the lack of horses, which I later discovered was due to health issues in November 2012. He led me into a small room that was furnished as an office, and invited me to sit down. It was evident that he had been going through papers, magazines and photos trying to find what he planned to share with me. Within moments, we were chatting as if we were old friends and I felt truly at ease with ‘The Legend’. As I sat and listened, I was taken back to another time, a different lifestyle and one that I could only imagine being part of; a time when cowboys worked, sweated and broke without complaint and with very little money to show for a hard day’s work. He told of his experiences with the untamed horses, the excitement of packing/hunting in the mountains, of driving cattle and horses, and of the Thoroughbreds that he so loved. He continued on with his exploits as a Hollywood artist and of the friendships he had made along the way. He spoke of one particular mare he had owned for over 30 years and how she had conveyed to him when “it was time”. He told of how he had cradled her head in his lap those last few hours until he knew what he had to do. It stirred something in both of us and when he took off his reading glasses to wipe a teary eye as the memory of that moment, of that mare, took hold of him, I found myself reaching for the box of Kleenex on a nearby window sill. We laughed as we looked at each other wiping away the tears. It was a very poignant moment. Later he showed me where he had buried the mare, not far from the house. After a couple of hours poring over handwritten stories, aged photos and coffee-stained bits of paper, Len ushered me outside to his ancient Oldsmobile parked in the lane. We were heading “somewhere”. He said he had something to show me. Len spoke and I listened as he navigated the country gravel roads and a dusty sandy narrow trail that took us even farther into bush and pastures. He talked about the people he admired, the teachings of Tom Dorrance and Ray Hunt, and when I asked him what was the one thing he would tell folks with horses today, his reply was interestingly simple. ”Folks need to let the horse walk.” He went on to explain that it meant to let the horse move freely, away from you (while under saddle). Letting the horse walk allowed the horse to sense and revere its own body movement and that of the rider, thus creating relaxation and confidence in both. The path we took was very sandy but at one point, we continued on page 6

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Len’s story began like that of many cowboys but soon evolved into something truly special and unique. Born of a farming family in the Bagot, Manitoba area, Len came into this world as a horseman. Horses held a special place in his heart, and at the young age of 15, he was already being paid to break/train horses at $15 a head. Len made enough to line his pockets so he could pursue his ambition to become a cowboy. He headed west to Alberta, taking with him the lessons he had learned breaking horses in his younger years. He worked for cattle outfits as a wrangler or “horse jingler”, a hunter and tour guide in the Rockies. During these guided tours, Hollywood took this young cowboy under its wing. Movie companies filming in the Jasper area hired Len to act as a horse wrangler, stuntman and to be present for background shots. “The Far Country”, River of No Return” and “Rose Marie” put him in the company of Hollywood greats such as Jimmy Stewart, Robert Mitchum, Marilyn Monroe and Howard Keel to name a few. Acting as a stunt double for the likes of Harry Morgan and Walter Brennan left many fond memories for Len. At 28 years-old, Len returned to Manitoba to pursue other ambitions, including opening a riding school in Winnipeg, working as an outrider at Assiniboia Downs where he ran the stable there for a few years and even owned a racehorse or two. {Editor’s note: Len actually went back to school during this period, finished his Grade 12 and took some college courses. He recommends it to others, saying, “I don’t want them to make the same dumb mistakes I made when I was a kid.”] He gave clinics, judged horses at shows across North America, and was the go-to horse authority for the courts. He never tired or wavered when it came to sharing his experiences with 4-H Clubs or taking part in all things horse related like rodeos, reining and even jumping. Along with others that were just as passionate, he was instrumental in promoting and organizing the rodeos in Manitoba and was a founding member of the Manitoba Cutting Horse and Quarter Horse Associations. He was inducted into the Manitoba Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame in 1993, a true reflection and tribute of all that he gave, and is still giving, as a cowboy. Later, he penned his life experiences in the form of stories and poems, becoming a well-known Cowboy Poet and sharing yet another of his special talents with all. He was highly sought after to perform at Cowboy Gatherings and other events. His literary talents became recognized, and in 2010 earned him the title as a Manitoba Laureate recipient. I had the privilege of meeting Len at his home in the

continued from page 5

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came to a huge deep-looking puddle. Len turned to me and said, “Where I want to take you is just on the other side of that puddle, but I am not sure if the car will make it through the water without getting stuck”. We looked at the left side where tree stumps blocked our route. We wouldn’t get by there without a few scratches on the Olds. The right side wasn’t any better as the trail dropped slightly and met with some electric fencing. I turned to Len and asked, “What would the young Len Carroll do?”. Without hesitation, he grinned and put his foot to the floor. The big Olds roared towards the water, and before I knew what was happening, water spewed well above the car and to the side. We took a bit of a dip and then we were on the other side, grinning. It was a reflection of how this man lived his life. He parked the car on the top of a knoll, where we got out and viewed the beauty of the valley below us. He told of how he drove cattle in the early days in this area and how the road we had just come on had been nothing but a tiny deer trail. The only telltale sign of man ever being there had been the lone hoof prints of his horse

Len enjoyed some stunning workplaces.

As he peered into the valley, I could see those cherished and yearned for memories shadow his face. He seemed a passionate man; a cowboy that had lived, and was still living, the life that many dreamed of. His was an existence decreed by truth and determination, by resolve and fortitude, by strength and compassion and by a willingness to overcome the challenges a cowboy may face, often without much reward, except of course having the privilege and honour of being called a true cowboy. That was the person who stood before me…a Poet, Cowboy and Horseman…a Legend by the name of Len Carroll. c

Resume With Horses I learned about horses long before I learned about horsemanship. One came naturally, the other required thought and study and time. I grew up with horses, was raised using them, had an affinity for them and cared about them. But it took a lot of time and experience to really know very much about them. I started my first two year old when I was eight. I guess you’d call it “starting him” today. I got a bridle on him, clambered up and rode around on him. We both had the same savvy – none. That’s a long time ago now and I’m still trying to figure them out. I’ve used horses in quite a few different situations. Let’s see – I’ve plowed with them, ten in a bunch when I was fifteen. I’ve raked hay, mowed hay, swept hay to the stack, a team in each hand – twenty feet in front of me. I’ve skidded logs, hauled pulp wood, threshed bundles with them, harrowed, cultivated and scuffled potatoes. I’ve hauled hay with four of ‘em and firewood, fed cattle, hauled water, cleaned barns and scraped dirt; broke them to wagons, buggies, mowers, bush camps and saddle. I’ve set upon them, roped off them, cut cows off them, gathered off them, reined off them, broke them to ride and been bucked off them. I’ve gathered cattle off them, packed them, guided on them, been tired on them, wet on them, cold on them and lost on them. I’ve trailed them, jingled them, hunted them, tacked them, roped them and gelded them. I’ve bred them and raised them and nursed them and doctored them, sat up with them and slept with them. I’ve been run off with them, bucked off of them, kicked by them, struck by them, shook and flung by them, hurt by them and broke on account of them. I’ve raced them and trained them, bet on them and bragged on them. I’ve shot them and buried them, prayed over them and wept over them. I’ve bought them and sold them and traded them. I’ve hauled them an’ showed them and judged them. I’ve gathered them wild from the mountains, set on ‘em at fifty below. Bucked snow and been cold and been hungry, along with a bunch of just them. I’ve swum them, night herded on them, shod them, trucked them, hauled them and cussed them. I’ve lectured about them and taught on them. I’ve judged them in most every way they can go. In teams and in fours and in sixes, under saddle of all types, ponies in carts or without, bridle horses, cutting horses and hunters, in snaffles or spade and in bosals. There’s some stuff I haven’t done with them yet. But I’m waiting until I have more experience.

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By Len Carroll 1987

Text and photos by Linda Hazelwood

Michael Rohrmann, Movement Trainer (Dressage, Show Jumping, Eventing)

Michael Rohrmann and Riana.

Michael Rohrmann is willing to travel the world to make his contribution to equestrian sport and the wellbeing of the horse. On May 18, in Oakbank, Manitoba, at a demonstration clinic sponsored by Dressage Winnipeg, organized by Ashley Fudge and hosted by Bob and Liane Parker, he commented, “This clinic is a highlight. It’s the last one of my trip!” He left his home country of Germany this spring to visit clients in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and his journey brought him to Manitoba via Texas and many other places, taking eighteen separate flights along the way.

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Working in hand

The Manitoba demonstration clinic was to focus on work in hand, which is fast becoming a lost art. It can start with something as simple as asking the horse to move away from you in the stable and progress all the way through to the airs above the ground.

Rein safety while lunging or long lining.

The horse needs time

During his preliminary discussion, Michael suggested riders often intend to take their time but when they get in the arena, impatience and time constraints come into play. He said, “Horses don’t watch training DVDs. They have to understand our language whether it is English or German. A young horse won’t say to you, ‘What you are doing is wrong’. He will try to work out what you mean from your body posture, demeanour and energy.” The horse understands when he ‘gets it’ there will be less pressure in the mouth. Training the horse starts in the box stall, not the saddle.

We are not born as horse riders, we have to learn balance

It is important to warm up before riding, Michael stressed. If the rider is stiff, the horse cannot flex correctly. For instance, he suggested that with half halts, “Don’t do them too quickly. Let the horse breathe out, and relax your own muscles too.” Both horse and

rider need to learn muscle memory before a movement becomes automatic; it takes 10,000 repetitions to achieve the memory. Michael suggested “starting to sing slowly” to gain coordination on the way to 5,000 correct movements and commented, “Only then can you start different movements, step by step.” He said, “The steps cannot be small enough.” It is important to recognize when the horse is comfortable with a movement, then quit.

Guinness

Michael’s first horse of the demonstration was Sandra Hobday’s 17.2hh 10-year-old Manitoba Warmblood, Guinness. In her application to offer him as a demo horse Sandra said, “Guinness is working at Training/Level 1. I have done some Parelli work with him on line over a year ago and a very small amount of lungeing this year, usually just to watch him and access his physical performance. He is a very calm, very accommodating and very honest horse. He is a joy to work with and would do better than most in a new situation.” Michael first lunged him on the bit with a single 30’ long line, watching Guinness’ face to tell when he was relaxed and positive. Was he more comfortable with the stirrups up, or down? He tested him both sides at the walk, then checked his comfort at the trot. At a little faster pace than he normally would, Michael then added another line to the bit on the other side, and clipped each line to the stirrup with a caribiner. He commented that he preferred a cotton line rather than nylon, as it was easier on the un-gloved hands. The first minutes with Guinness were spent working in a circle to help him understand Michael’s body language. When the horse felt mental pressure Michael would make a low calming “Brrr” and the horse started to recognize that was a signal that everything was alright, and he was safe. The horse was also allowed to find the wall as a safe place. Long lines are valuable tools in starting young horses and the

continuing education of broke horses, as they quickly learn to respond to bit pressure and bending techniques. The next step was for Michael to walk behind Guinness. From that position it was easy to change direction, and he encouraged Guinness to relax, round his back and drop his nose because the lines had constant contact. At times it seemed Michael was dancing behind Guinness, making wide side-steps as he moved in tandem with Guinness to achieve the desired consistent bit pressure. He long lined in straight steps, and helped Guinness at the shoulder, lifting his hand on the inside to ask for bend at the corner. At the trot, Guinness became too hasty but Michael was able to let the lines out to give him his head until he calmed down, and as Michael said, “We come back into harmony.” At the trot, Guinness was unsettled by Michael running behind him, but he found his safe place was the wall. To help, Michael asked for a few steps of trot, then allowed back down to walk. There were lots of comforting “Brrr’s”. When Guinness was comfortable at the trot, Michael called a halt to the lesson, saying, “That’s enough for today.” As mentioned earlier, knowing when to quit is key. Michael also demonstrated asking the horse to move just one foot, or to move the lower leg, tapping with the whip. It was an important demonstration in timing and recognizing the ‘give’. In this exercise, Michael used the wall to help Guinness understand that he was to move a foot or leg forward when requested, rather than step sideways.

Riana

The second horse used in the clinic was Riana, a 6-yearold Hanoverian owned by Dr. Shireen Naidoo. Riana had experience at long lining, plus extensive experience at clinics with a rider on her back and a clinician on the ground. continued on page 10

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Guinness becoming accustomed to two positions of the lines when moving in a circle.

Michael checks the fit of Riana’s bridle.

Asking Riana to move off a hind leg.

First Michael taught Riana ‘follow me’ on the wall as he got to know the horse and judge her temperament. By now, the weather had turned nasty outside and at times Michael’s words were drowned by the drumming of rain on the arena roof. Complementing the exercise he had used with Guinness, this time he asked Riana to make a small side step by tapping the inside hind leg. He recommended to the auditors, “After you dismount, or at a halt, always have the horse stand straight for a moment on a long rein, so he learns what is correct.” In the long line work Michael tied Riana’s tail in a knot so he could reach the back legs with the whip. Asking for an in-hand trot by tapping on her hindquarters he weathered a few bucks, but told her, “It’s OK”, not yelling “Quit” or yanking on the lines. When she stressed, he let her move out until her brain settled then got her back to work. He said, “Some horses you must ride more with the brain than the muscles.” He watches their faces, the eyes, the breathing, to judge stress levels. He commented, “If the horse doesn’t understand Plan A, have a B, C or even D up your sleeve. There are many ways to achieve the desired result, as each horse has a different learning level cycle.”

impresses me about Michael the most is his flexibility and generosity.” She said he always had a goal in mind, and can offer so many options to succeed in what he wants to accomplish with each horse and rider. She added, “In my lessons with him over the course of three days not only did he ride my horse, Ava, but he also worked with us over cavalletti. This was followed on the last day with taking the ‘in hand’ work that he demonstrated on Saturday, to further ask for an increased level of collection, activity and balance. The new ‘feel’ that I have discovered in my horse through this work has been like stepping into a whole new perception of the world...everything appears the same but the experience has changed.” c

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Happy riders, happy horses

A number of dressage enthusiasts had the chance to have one-on-one sessions with Michael during the days preceding the clinic, and they reported that the amount of understanding they gained was phenomenal. This was the second year Michael had visited Manitoba, and he is returning in September 2013. As well as organizing Michael’s visit to Manitoba, Ashley Fudge was able to take advantage of one-on-one time with Michael, and she commented, “What really

Michael Rohrmann’s status

In 1978, he completed Pferdewirt training, with a focus on riding. In 1981, he qualified as Pferdewirtschaftsmeister (Masters Degree) with a focus on riding, achieving the Stensbeck Award for extremely high grades. Until 2007, he was the training coach at the Munich and Vechta Riding and Driving Schools, including professional training for Pferdewirte and Meister qualifications. In 2008, he completed training with Eckart Meyners and was recognized by the Federal Association of the Professional Riders and the German Riding School as a Motion Trainer (Bewegungstrainer EM). For explanations of Rohrmann’s qualifications please go to www.germanhorsecenter.com/qualification.html#c1207 www.germanhorsecenter.com/trainer.html?&trainer=199&na me=Michael-Rohrmann Further reading The 10 Points of the Rohrmann Plan www.michaelrohrmann.de/The_10_Points_of_the_Rohrmann_ Plan.pdf

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Sandy Donald

e v l e s w n o T i t s . e . . u q th i w

Lives 5 miles NW of Brandon Education: - Grade 12, Brandon University. Occupation: - Nurse at Prairie Mountain Regional Health Authority. - Equine Canada General Performance Judge. - Operates Donald Quarter Horses with husband Brian, who is a horse trainer and works for Petro Canada. - Judges horse shows in summer. - President, Manitoba Light Horse Association, Vice-President, Manitoba Superhorse 50/50 Sale & Futurity.

Growing up, who did you most admire? My parents, who worked so hard to raise six children.We never wanted for much, lived on a farm and always ate well, and were taught good values. We always wanted a horse but never had one so we rode the cows.

If you could go back and relive one day of your life, which one would it be and why? My first horse show on my beloved Frisky Toad. I was terrified of horses but wanted to ride and show. I think that day was the major accomplishment of my life.

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Who do you consider to be your mentor, or person you most admire.

Sandy rode in the Manitoba Superhorse 50/50 in 2009.

My husband Brian, who trains all my horses, warms them up for me before a class. He is the reason I am showing at all. He has always supported me. Neil McLeod, who got me into riding and showing years ago. Bob and Faith Olyarnyk, who are always there for me. They never judged me, just gave their support even if Ithe horse I was on was not for me. I can go there anytime for help, and get an objective honest opinion.

What would you do differently if you were starting your career today? I would change so much. I rode and showed some bad horses over the years. I never gave up on them, thinking I could make them into something they weren’t. Now, if I don’t like a horse or click with it, I move on. Same as people; horses are not able to all do what you think they should. There are too many nice ones out there.

If you weren’t doing the work you are now, what would you be doing? I enjoy nursing, but if I could go back I would train as a doctor. When you are younger, years of school are not as appealing.

Showing in a Halter class, Shoal Lake Fair, 2012.

What were the challenges you faced in your What was the most valuable piece of advice early working years. Overcoming my fear of horses. I gained more confidence you ever received? every year that I showed. When I was starting out in showing at an AQHA show, a judge came up to me after I took a wrong lead in a class. He said, “Go home and practise that! I will see you for a second, setting that horse up for the correct lead. I will see you for a lot longer when you go by on the wrong lead.”

What was your most memorable training success? When Brian won the Manitoba 50/50 Superhorse Futurity on Jovi. I helped him with getting her to where she was at the show.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live? Right here in Manitoba. I love the change of seasons.

What is your favorite event location or riding arena? I love the Keystone Centre. I have always been fortunate to live close to such a lovely facility. I also love riding across the fields at home.

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

What are your guilty pleasures? Tack shops wherever I go! Visiting horse friends at shows. c

Sandy and Docs Golden Cookie. She showed him as a 2 yr-old at the Manitoba 50/50, sold him and he stood in a pasture for 4 years. She got him back about 3 months ago. Husband Brian has got him back on track and has had a good summer on him. He will be shown in the two Quarter Horse shows in Brandon this fall

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.

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I purchased a horse last year which was totally not my style of horse. I really tried to make it work but gave up and moved on. That’s not something I do. Next time I will ride the horse more than once.

Text by Ishbel Moore Photos by Martha Parish

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“I was surprised when my name was called. My rosette is a cherished reminder of new friendships, and a testament to how determination and acquiring knowledge can build a bond between human and equine.” – Sue Sheridan, upon receiving her rosette after passing testing in the Beginner Level of Horse Agility at a clinic on June 9-10, 2013 at North 9 arena, Stonewall, MB.

Sue and her husband, Rod, live on 16 acres surrounded by forests and lakes at Ear Falls, which is a small settlement and township of 1200 persons, located in Northwestern Ontario, on the right bank of the English River near the outlet of Lac Seul. “Neither Rod nor I had any experience with horses, but as a child I collected china horses and spent many hours drawing them,” admits Sue. “I have a friend in Red Lake who owns a stable and Rod forced me to call her and arrange some lessons.” A 13.2 hh black and white pony was Sue’s 50th birthday present. Says Sue, “I fondly refer to her as ‘my million dollar pony’ because I would not sell her for a million dollars! Of course, it was no fun horsing around alone, so within the next six months we acquired horses for Rod and our daughter.” Sue explains, “Both Rod’s and Teanna’s horses died the spring of the year we purchased Daisy. Rod’s horse, Cream Bee, had been a gorgeous buckskin Arabian Quarter Horse cross, and Teanna phoned me that fall to tell me that there was an ad for a buckskin mare in Dryden. I knew the owner

and we arranged to see her. Rod and Teanna fell in love and Rod bought her – for me! The owner had gotten her from a friend in Thunder Bay who had taken her as a rescue. She had been foundered and her feet were a mess.” Over the next few years, Sue learned a lot about the treatment of founder and how to deal with abscesses. “It also quickly became evident that Daisy has confidence issues,” adds Sue. “She spooks easily and bolts.” Sue turned to Parelli to acquire skills and confidence. She and Daisy passed level 1 and are working at levels 2 and 3. A Parelli playground has been built, including a pedestal, pylons, carwash, tarp and a teeter-totter. During Sue’s quest for knowledge, she also has taken an online course in equine first aid, Equine Massage Therapy with Sidonia McIntyre, and Reiki level 2 which she then learned to administer to the horses. Now Sue’s attention has turned to Horse Agility, because despite all these useful and helpful methods, she felt the true bond with Daisy was still lacking. “In surfing the internet for more ideas for obstacles for my playground,” Sue says, “I had come across Vanessa Bee’s International Horse Agility site and subsequently purchased her book. It seemed like a natural progression and fun way to improve upon the skills we learned from Parelli. Then, on the Internet, I saw Wendy Clemis’ ad for the Agility clinic. Vanessa was including Stonewall in her North American tour.” After much soul searching, Sue

and Rod decided the six hour drive from Ear Falls would be worth it. Although Sue confesses to being very nervous, the warmth and friendliness she experienced from those organizing and attending the clinic helped her to fit in quickly, and she settled into learning all she could. “I was extremely impressed with Vanessa’s teaching style. She is a knowledgeable horsewoman who presents her information in a down to earth manner. She is able to assist her students in a manner that makes them feel good about themselves and empowered. There is neither false praise nor belittling. She left all of us enthusiastic and craving more!” As for Daisy, Sue was pleasantly surprised, particularly when the test period on Sunday coincided with a thunder storm. “Daisy took everything in stride! All clinic, I kept waiting for an eruption and other than the ball and the whip, she kept herself together. Rod had told me that this would be the indicator of how great the bond between us had become and how much trust she actually has in me. When she became unsure, she’d check in with me, and as long as I remained calm and was mindful of approach and retreat, she handled most things amazingly well. I really liked the liberty session. When she and I were in the big arena, I felt like we were doing a dance together.” The Agility test course was not without its obstacles or challenges, such as the ‘car wash’, plastic bottles, tarps, and ‘scary corner’, and jumps. Sue claims, “I had never

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Daisy and Sue have a great bond.

been able to convince Daisy to jump. As we came around the corner approaching the jump, she initiated a trot, so I thought, ‘Let’s go for it!’ and she sailed over. I looked into the smiling faces of my new friends who were cheering our accomplishment.” Unfortunately, there is no Agility club in Ear Falls. Sue hopes this will change, but until then she will keep in touch with the Selkirk/Stonewall club. Meanwhile she and Rod are currently building the obstacles as per Vanessa’s book. Sue and Daisy will play/practice with them for a while before sending in a video test submission that will be judged by Vanessa, and have points awarded as appropriate. If Sue and Daisy receive a high enough score, they can move to the next level. Sue sums up her experience. “Horse Agility has given me insight to Daisy as well as myself, and will form the footing for the next branch in our path. I painted a sign that says ‘Horse Agility overcoming obstacles.’ This is my new compass. Horse and human moving as one is the bond and level of connectedness that I am striving for. ‘Overcoming obstacles’ speaks to both me and Daisy. We need to overcome our fears and physical barriers, and gain self-confidence. Only then can we strive for true agility.”c

The perfect seat

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Whatever you do in riding, you need a seat that is balanced in every situation. Whether you are jumping, riding dressage or western style, you should not sit off to one side as it unbalances your horse and after a while, if it is not corrected, your horse will become crooked. Every horse needs the neck to keep its balance: take into consideration younger horses. They carry their necks higher than the back nearly all the time. You never see them in trot

or canter carrying a correct contact for a long period of time as dressage and jumping horses are able to do. So, why do we want to have a correct contact? The answer is very simple: in the moment when a horse is coming in contact, it stretches its back muscles and the bones in the back come higher. When the horse comes over its back as it would in a correct contact, the horse is able to swing through its back. This will also make the horse’s stride much more comfortable to sit. It is very important to have an even seat so as the horse comes over its back the rider will not have too much uneven pressure causing the horse discomfort. A lot of riders struggle to bring their horses into a good contact. Imagine you have someone on your back who is sitting to one side. You have to bring yourself and your rider in balance; therefore you (as the horse) have to lift your head higher. Immediately the contact is lost. In this situation a rider will attempt to pull their horse’s head down with the reins or sometimes will use artificial aids such as running reins, neither of which will be successful. The best way to see if a rider is sitting correctly is to stand behind the horse (not too close that you could be kicked) and have a look. If you do not have help on the ground to see if you are sitting crooked, stand in front of a mirror. You will be able to see if you are sitting to one side. Another indicator can be when one of your stirrups is longer or shorter than the other. Sometimes, when a rider sits crooked for a long time the saddle also becomes crooked and a saddle fitter is needed to readjust the saddle.

By Irene Schweckendieck, Gestüt Landhaus Schweckendieck, Wietmarschen, Germany, with Emma Tarvis.

Illustrations: The basic for riding is a correct balanced seat. Emma Tarvis from Winnipeg, who is working in Germany with Irene Schweckendieck, shows you the bad and the good seat positions. 1.Swaying to the right: (ignore the fence line, look at the back of the horse). 2. Swaying to the left, right elbow is away from the body. 3. Good position from behind. 4. From the front: a deep seat, long legs, straight body and perfect hands. (Note: The horse’s neck could be a little bit more elevated.) To achieve a balanced seat it is very helpful for the coach to take the student on the longe without stirrups. First in walk, then in a slow trot so that the student is able to balance themselves. After having a balanced seat in walk and trot you can move to canter. Allow your student to take their upper body more forward and more backwards so long as they are sitting deep in the saddle. Ask your student to move the hips forward and back to drive the horse while keeping the upper body still; this will bring the seat into good balance. The student has to carry their hands evenly in front of them as they hold the reins. Do not allow the rider to have too strong a grip on the reins as this will interrupt the horse’s movement which will cause the rider to have a strong seat. Pay attention that your rider has a correct dressage seat (is a vertical line going through the shoulder, hip and the heel), whereas for a correct jumping seat the line is through the shoulder, knee and toe. The horizontal line will be elbow, forearm and hand for both seats, with the thumb on top. Every rider is able to do these exercises; you only need someone who can hold the longe line and someone who can stand on the ground to check that you are not sitting to one side or the other. When you are sitting in the middle of the saddle you will feel when you are in balance, it is an amazing feeling; sitting easy in your horse. The better you sit the less exhausting it will be and the better it looks. c

Two New Directions for Canadian Equestrians

Advertorial

Every once in a while, new and exciting directions appear for the world to enjoy. benches warming people’s backsides, feet and the floor around them. You are invited to our website at www.greendirections.ca to expand your awareness of heating for the future! Ask for a free quote for your heating project. 2. Equine Body Bling: A fun side for horse lovers has just become available in Canada from California. We are now the Canadian distributor for equine body bling. See their website at www.equinebodybling.com Yes, body bling for our horses, bling to express moods, promote a cause, show corporate support or sponsorship, and for fundraising efforts. Your horses will strut their stuff with colorful equine body bling, safe, easy to apply and remove stickers. Perfect for horse shows, rodeos, parades, barrel racing, 4-H, trail riding, etc. A variety of designs are available. Custom designs may also be ordered. Bling your horse today and enjoy the attention! Bring your bling along for the ride. In summary, let the fun begin. Participating stores will be happy to take your order. New dealers will be added to www. equinebodybling.com when orders are placed. For further information about either of our two new directions, call Ron at 1-888-878-9493 or 1-204-878-9126 or email him at holein1@mts.net

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1. Infrared heating panels, “the furnace of the future” lend themselves beautifully to equestrian applications such as heating for barns, stables, rural homes, riding arenas, and on and on. Offering ease of installation, CSA certification, 5-year warranty, no fire hazard, and no moving parts therefore no maintenance required. As well, heating with infrared heating panels bring multiple health benefits to the resulting environment creating a win-win for all. Simply stated, a heating system of infrared heating panels does not heat the air in a building but rather the building structure. This, in turn, allows the structure, floors, walls, furniture, etc. to become the heating structure. Our infrared heating panels come with many advantages. They are made in North America. They control dampness thus eliminating mold and fungus. In stables, the drying effect cancels out odors. Since the panels heat the structure rather than the air within, doors can be opened in winter resulting in minimal heat loss. Compared to baseboard heating a 50% reduction in electrical heating costs can be enjoyed. Since the panels have no moving parts, no maintenance is required. Panels operate at temperatures which will not produce fires. The applications are virtually endless: maintenance shops, water rooms, etc. For spectator arena comfort we now have available bench/bleacher heating panels which attach to the underside of

2013 Horse Week Wrap up Report! August 4 - 11, 2013 2013 Registered Horse Week Events: Canadian National Appaloosa Show, MHC Sponsored Equine Canada Rider Level Demo and Testing Day, MHC Sponsored First Aid Course, Turn N Burn for the Cure Cancer Care Fundraiser, Equine First Aid Clinic - Uma Equine Services, Gladstone Ag Society 4H Horse Show, Give it a Go Days – Dressage Winnipeg, Combined Driving Demonstration – Manitoba Driving Society, Drill Team Demonstration – Northern Lights Drill Team, MHC Sponsored Trail Ride Fundraiser for Helping Hooves, MHC Sponsored Gymkhana Fun Day and Games and MBRA/MHC Barrel Racing Jackpot.

Testimonials: * “Thanks to MHC for hosting the free Horse Week Gymkhana. Lots of fun, friends and fitness!” MHC junior member Lilly Wiebe *“Great to see MHC promoting grassroots programming through Horse Week. This is my second year participating and I enjoyed all of the events I attended. Looking forward to next year!” MHC senior member Earl Evans *“What a beautiful Equestrian Centre at Birds Hill Provincial Park. We are so fortunate to have this venue right here for our enjoyment – no reason to leave the province. Well attended, well run – see you next year!” MHC Golden member Alice Walker

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MHC Horse Week objectives were as follows: Create Awareness: • Promote the economic impact and significance of Manitoba’s horse industry • Endorse horse welfare • Promote the variety of breeds and disciplines Provide Education: • Identify the benefits that horses and riding provide • Teach the importance of safety around horses • Recognize the importance of recognized riding schools and certified instructors/coaches Increase Participation • Encourage and increase the practice of equestrian sport and activity in Manitoba and Canada • Position the Provincial Sport Organization (Manitoba Horse Council) as the gateway to the practice of equestrian sport and activity • Increase memberships The MHC Board of Directors and staff would like to thank everyone who supported Horse Week 2013!

Prorated membership starts October 15, 2013

Sponsorship Opportunities

MHC is pleased to announce that their pro-rated membership fee structure will begin on October 15, 2013 and end on March 15, 2014. Members joining the MHC on or after October 15, 2013 will receive 35% off the annual membership fee. Sign up today!

MHC actively represents the equine community in industry, animal welfare, recreation and sport. Our organization provides education, grants funding, club support, liability insurance, programs and liaises with government ministries. For sponsorship inquiries please contact the MHC Office at 204.925.5719 or visit the MHC website at www.manitobahorsecouncil.ca.

Equine Canada Western Instructor/Coach Update

Horse Week is held annually to promote and celebrate Manitoba’s thriving horse industry. A wide range of activities are held across the province, including trail rides, horse shows, charity events and open houses to allow horse enthusiasts and the public alike to celebrate horses! Everyone is encouraged to participate.

Sunday, September 29, 2013. WW Stables, 1356 McCreary Road, Winnipeg. Topics to be covered: Presentation on new programs and current program changes, demonstration of western rider levels, Competition Coach and Competition Coach Specialist. Fee: $50 Final deadline for submitting registration forms is September 24, 2013. To access a registration form please visit ww.manitobahorsecouncil.ca/Coaching-Upgrading.

Clinic Support Grants MHC continues to support local horse clubs through the Provincial Clinic Support program. This year’s recipients are as follows: Manitoba Cutting Horse Association – Jeremy Barwick Clinic Dressage Winnipeg – Dressage Development Camp Manitoba Miniature Horse Club – MMHC Spring Clinic Each club will receive a $500 grant, Congratulations!

Follow MHC MHC actively promotes equine advocacy, accessibility, welfare, recreation and sport. Three ways to stay connected with MHC: 1. Visit www.manitobahorsecouncil.ca/ on a regular basis for new events and informational postings 2. Sign up for our monthly e-Newsletter at www.manitobahorsecouncil.ca/ 3. Follow us on Facebook – Manitoba Horse Council MANITOBA HORSE COUNCIL— the voice of equine advocacy, accessibility, welfare, recreation and sport

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2013 Turn N Burn for the Cure!

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The 4th Annual Turn N Burn For the Cure was another success. This year we held our event at the lovely Birds Hill Park as we were included for the second time with all the other Manitoba Horse Council Horse Week activities! This was very kind of Horse Council as it helps to advertise our event. Manitoba Horse Council donated the use of the outdoor arena along with the use of the PA system and made sure to have their canteen available for spectators and barrel racers. Jerry Magas (Equestrian Centre Manager) kindly prepared the ring for the barrel race and diligently harrowed during our event. It was a beautiful warm sunshiny day unlike the cool fall type weather we had been experiencing. We opened our event with Malory Zaboroski singing Oh Canada in her beautiful voice and then listened to “If Today Was Your Last Day” by Nickelback as Kerry Liddiard carried the cancer flag on her horse in memory of her husband Mark. We had a total of 30 entrants who raised $4,686 towards Cancer Care Manitoba. Katelyn Dueck was the barrel racer

The Northern Lights Drill Team gave a demonstration. Front Row : Laura Kucharsky, Tianna Bodie, Lacey Manastyr, Randi Wright. Middle Row: Judi Watt, Alysha FinnsonManaigre, Abe Shapansky, Brittany Jones, Shelley Unger., Back Row: Joanne Doell, Lauren Henderson.

who collected the most pledges – a total of $400. There were lovely prizes thanks to very generous businesses and individuals who donated material or monetary prizes. Several people went home very happy with the silent auction prizes they had accumulated. Kaity Oakley was the successful grand prize winner of a night with Two Dollar Pistol – a live rock band that donated a full three set evening to be auctioned at our event. Mary-Anne Bach and her mare, Smoke and Mystery, were the 1D Champions winning the GIST Silversmith buckle donated by Maple Leaf Agri-Farms. Kerry Liddiard and Ruff Quixote won the 2D Championship, Tracy Wilkie won the 3D Championship and Katelyn Dueck won the 4D Championship. c For more results and pictures please go to Facebook page www.facebook. com/groups/316971380907 Top right: Mary-Anne Bach and Ace at the opening ceremony. Right. Katelyn Dueck (left) raised the most money in pledges and was also the 4D Champion. Pictured with Mary-Anne Bach.

The Helping Hooves Event-Full August plan the event. The domino effect was that MacGregor was then cancelled. But...the show must go on? The next event to be postponed was the St. Andrew’s Trail Ride through Oak Hammock Marsh. The date clashed with the wildly popular Children’s Wish ride. On the day of what was to be the kick-off in Kleefeld, August 10, Pam woke up to a white world. She was fogged-in! Regardless, she set off just a little later than she planned, rode in the parade as Honorary Parade Marshall and worked the Helping Hooves booth with the help of Shona Douglas and Helping Hands President, Val Poole. The evening of the Honey Festival was planned as a country concert with all proceeds going to Helping Hooves. Guess what: at 7pm the rain was coming down so hard the concert was cancelled. August 11 was the day of the Birds Hill Park trail ride. Once again the fog was thick, Pam was delayed and missed the ride. The 20-or-so riders who did set off, guided by Debbie and Bruce Champagne, reported a good ride. When the fog lifted Pam made it to Birds Hill Park, set up her booth and spent a wonderful afternoon watching the afternoon events and spreading the word about Helping Hooves. As the magazine goes to press plans are still going forward for the Horses in Motion Tack Sale on August 25, the St. Andrews Stable ride has been rescheduled for October 1, Kleefeld is holding their benefit concert at a later date and Austin and MacGregor are planning substitute dates for trail rides later in the fall. On August 10 and 11 Helping Hooves also had a information and sales booth set up at the Richer Heartland Rodeo, manned by Dan Guetre. Regardless, ticket sales for the Helping Hooves

Fundraiser Draw are going ahead, and will have been drawn on August 31. Keep up to date with events on www.helpinghoovesmanitoba.com and on Facebook. c Helping Hands for Manitobans with Breast Cancer information is at: www.helpinghands4mbwbc.com issue 6-2013 | www.horsecountry.ca

The Domino Effect. How it all (or at least some of it) fell down for Helping Hooves this year. The plan was for Helping Hooves supporters to ride around Manitoba for three weeks in August starting in Kleefeld in conjunction with their Honey Festival, then via Birds Hill Park, St. Andrews, Grosse Isle (with a train robbery), through to Portage, Edwin and MacGregor finishing with a full-day Wind Up at the Austin Agricultural Museum. The aim was to raise more than $75,000. Helping Hooves is a group founded by Pam Glover to support the charity Helping Hands for Manitobans with Breast Cancer, which provides assistance to women and men in Manitoba who are experiencing financial difficulties while undergoing treatment and follow-up for breast cancer. The project took an immediate hit in the early part of the year when Pam’s sister in Saskatchewan was diagnosed with cancer and Pam had to go to help the family until nature took its course. As the start date of the ride drew closer, it was realised that without Pam in Manitoba carrying out the vital planning, the ride just could not take place. Pam could not say when she would be back, so it was regretfully decided to cancel the three-week ride. The fund-raiser became “An Event-Full August”, as seven events were being arranged independently by groups such as the Kleefeld Honey Festival/Concert (kickoff event), Manitoba Horse Council (trail ride and gymkhana as part of National Horse Week), a trail ride from St. Andrew’s Stables, tack sale and trail ride at Horses in Motion Arena in Edwin, a pancake breakfast by the town of MacGregor topped off with a trail ride to Austin Agricultural Museum and a full day’s Wind-Up including a display by the Austin Hick Chicks Drill Team. The next blow to the group was the cancellation of the Austin Wind-Up Day. The intergral family in their organizing team had a family member be diagnosed with cancer and given a one month prognosis which meant they would not be available to

How The West Was Won: The Western Working Morgan Horse

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by Babs Hamilton

In the beginning of the 20th century, western North America saw a great influx of easterners settling the vast amount of land that was available to them. Large ranches started to appear, soon growing into empires with cattle, sheep and horses being bred and raised on the thousands of acres that spread from the borders of Mexico, up through California, Wyoming, Montana, and right into Canada’s western provinces. Forced to face the challenges of a harsh land and even harsher climate conditions, ranchers were on the lookout for horses that would not only withstand the hard life of being a ranch horse, but would also thrive in these conditions and have the attitude and demeanour the ranchers desired; a horse that could go all day and yet still is the family carriage or riding horse on the weekends. Most of us know the story of the Justin Morgan horse (later known as Figure)…the little bay power horse that captured America’s heart! Foaled in 1789 in southern New England, he was named after his owner Justin Morgan (a singing teacher, farmer and horse breeder). The little stud was known for his speed, endurance, beauty, hardiness

and especially his gentle disposition. He became a legend in the horse world by proving he could outrun, out walk, out trot and out pull any other horse in his time. He passed all of these traits onto his progeny and these attributes in the lineages drew the attention of western ranchers. While many others wanted to “improve” the Morgan by breeding for speed and a lighter riding horse, the ranchers kept true to the foundation breeding of the Morgan horse, and the stallions and mares they selected for their programs reflected that. The mounts were tough, agile and smart cow horses. A combination of old Vermont (Lippitt), Government, Brunk and old Midwest bloodlines turned out tough, agile, and sensible cow horses which were noted for their good feet and legs, deep bodies and strong hind quarters. They had a willing attitude, fast ground covering walk and trot, as well as stamina and, above all, great heart and cow savvy. There were four or five main ranchers in the late 1880’s/ early 1900’s that played an important role in the formation of this type of Morgan horse. They developed what became known as the Western Working Morgan. Their breeding

(L.U. Sheep Co., Wyoming) During those early years, the Morgan horse was slow in gaining popularity in Canada with the first Morgan being registered in Canada in the late 1930’s. Horses in that era were based mainly on British breeds, but when Canadians saw a few of the outstanding Morgans starting to arrive in their country, they were greatly impressed. One of the first registered studs with Western Working bloodlines brought into Canada was Jubilee’s Victory, bred by Frances H. Bryant and owned by George F. Wade of Hobby Horse Farm in Nova Scotia. Victory’s sire, Jubilee King, was bred by the renowned J.C. Brunk and held great importance in the Western Working bloodlines. One Morgan horse of Western Working breeding that stood out and caught the attention of many was the impressive black stallion, Shadow Hawk, owned by a

successful prairie rancher named C.H. “Chay” Gilchrist. Shadow Hawk was by the great Flyhawk owned by the L.U. Sheep Company in Wyoming. It seems Chay did not forget the tireless Morgans he had ridden as a young cowboy in Montana, and was convinced that the Western Working bred Morgans offered what he wanted the most in a saddle horse. Shadow Hawk was one of many that Chay brought to Canada. This started the integration of the Western Working Morgan horse in Canada. Today the Western Working Morgan horse can be seen right across the country. Because this type of horse is so versatile, they are becoming more and more what people are looking for. They excel at ranch work, reining, cutting, driving, Cowboy Dressage, Cowboy Mounted Shooting, trail-riding, family mounts and so much more They can be seen in Parades and are used as 4-H projects. Their gentle disposition makes them an ideal family horse and their work ethic and willingness to give it their all make them an excellent stock horse. Their beauty, versatility and carriage also make them shine in the show ring. Canada has quite a number of breeders that stay true to the Foundation and Western Working breeding lines, believing there truly is no better breed of horse that will accomplish what this breed can and does. Lisa Wilhelm-Hammel has lots to say about the horses she and her husband breed and raise on their Saskatchewan ranch, Coyote Flat Morgan Horse Ranch. “The Western Working Morgan is an addiction that never quits. A package of gentleness, beauty and grace with a natural born cow sense. When asked they have incredible continued on page 24

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stock was carefully selected and the names of their horses became legendary. • The Admiral, Red Oak, Headlight Morgan (Richard Sellman, Sellman Ranch,Texas) • Querido, Sonfield, Sellman Ranch mares (Roland Hill, Horseshoe Cattle Co., California) • H-Saracen, Chingadero, War Paint (Ab Cross, Ab Cross Ranch, Wyoming) • Bombo, Warhawk, Stetson (Ramul Dvarishkis, Wyoming) • Montcrest, Uhlan, Sellman/Hill mares (Randolf Hearst, Piedmont Land and Cattle Co. California) • Monte L, Fleetfield, Delbert (Jackson Ranch, Montana) • Flyhawk, Linspar, Senator Graham

continued from page 23

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strength, speed, stamina and an athletic ability that should require a seat belt. At the same time they are able to adjust and tiptoe around for the greenest and smallest rider. [They have the] strength to rope and hold a cow yet [are] gentle with newborn calves. Their smooth ride, amazing dispositions, dependability in all situations, versatility and sure footedness make for an envious partnership, where you can trust your horse with your life. Our Morgans last all day on round-ups, pasture moves, doctoring and branding, while others had to change horses at least once during the day. They are always sound and ready to go to work. You can depend on them to do their job and take care of their rider.” Just recently, Lisa added a stud from Lee Kubbernus, (Silver Valley Morgans, AB)

Riding the gentle WWMH from Butte Morgans.

S Bar B Chingadero, Silver Valley Morgans.

whose pedigree reads like the “who’s who” of the Western Working Morgan family. S Bar B Chingadero is a stunning all black 100% Foundation. A Chingadero grandson now stands at Coyote Flat Ranch and already has been busy, with five mares expecting foals for 2014. Another recent addition of a great Western Working Morgan horse to Canada came by the way of the 777 Ranch in Wyoming. C-My Golden Hawk, a gorgeous palomino stallion with lines going back to Flyhawk and Headlight Morgan, now calls Ontario home on JDH Stock Farms/JDH Morgans. When the McAdams were asked why they chose a Western Working Morgan, Deja McAdams said, “My hubby used to breed Quarter Horses and use them for ranch work and checking his horned Hereford cattle.

That was until he started riding Morgans. He started riding Beams Dream Maker, and trained a Morgan gelding for a friend and truly fell in love with the breed right then and there. He noticed that with the Quarter Horses it didn’t matter how much training they had, he would get some that were cold backed when he pulled them from pasture to check the cattle or do their job. He found that he would need two Quarter Horses for a day’s worth of work as they tired out quicker than the Morgan did. He can work his Morgan all day long and it seemed it always would have a reserve tank for him when asked, not a hothead, just more than willing to give you 110% anytime you ask. It’s in their hearts to please you. They enjoy working with you, and are extremely loyal and reliable. Our Morgans are built to work, and have the dispositions to please which makes them incredible ranching mounts for us with our horned Hereford cattle. C-My Golden Hawk is our latest addition to our personal Morgan ranching program and we couldn’t be more pleased him. It’s an honor to welcome him to Canada and into our program”. Stamina, great feet and bones, willingness to give it all, intelligence, cow savvy, great disposition and heart are only a few of the words and statements that define the WWM horse. With the call out for horses that are as versatile as this type of Morgan, people are starting to realize the benefits associated with these attributes. It is great to see these lines continue to prosper and grow in Canada and it is wonderful and exciting to see the shared passion for the Western Working Morgan Horse across the world. c

The author, Babs Hamilton, with Eddie, her Morgan horse and various friends.

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Thanks go to the following for assistance in preparing this article: Homestead Morgans, BC; Butte Morgans, AB; Giddy Up Morgans, AB; Maple n Mane Morgans, AB; Coyote Flat Ranch Morgans, SK; A1 Morgans, AB; JDH Stock Farms/JDH Morgans, ON; Butte Morgans, AB; Noble T Morgans, BC; All Heart Morgans, ON; Belle Coullee Morgans, AB.

Manitoba Driving Society

MDS Event report Birds Hill International Horse Driving Trials

Horses and carriages were once again in fine form at the Birds Hill International Horse Driving Trials, held July 20-21 at Birds Hill Provincial Park. Formerly held as a Combined Driving Event, the Trials are hosted by the very active Manitoba Driving Society (MDS), who managed to pull in 28 entries from as far afield as Texas, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Iowa. Seven new entrants came from

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Alberta, and were surprised by the amazing competition facilities at the Park. Entrants challenged two elements on Saturday (the Dressage and Cones), and returned on Sunday for the Marathon with obstacles, including the water feature which is always a favorite with spectators. Driving teams ranged from a pair of Percheron crosses to a tandem of Very Small Equines. Pairs are two horses driven side-by-side while tandems drive one horse in front of a second. One very interesting entrant was brought by driver and trainer Denise Hinder from Texas. Alamo’s Ruby Red, owned by Jerry and Diane Kornegay, is an ambassador for the prototype breed developed by Vicente Fernandez, a well-known singer and actor in Mexico. Looking for a horse with specific attributes, he crosses Quarter Horses with Paso Finos to produce the Fernandez Pony. Sevenyear-old Ruby’s Red proved her merit by finishing second in her class and second overall for the weekend. An outstanding junior driver from Wisconsin, 12 yearold Luke Dahlberg, and his pony, Jesse James, finished an

Donna Trieber, from Mapleton, Iowa, challenging the water feature of the Marathon course with Lowsaam Acres Z’s Tushay.

extraordinary third overall in the event. His Mom, Julie, laughs as she tells the story of the then unruly pony’s arrival to their farm when he was a yearling. Julie says, “We figured he behaved like an outlaw so we named him Jesse James!” Licensed FEI International Driving Judge, Hardy Zantke, travelled from California for the third time to judge the competition, and provided valuable feedback to the drivers. Hardy is an advocate of junior and paradriving

Denise Hinder, from Texas, driving Alamo’s Ruby Red, one of a prototype breed of Fernandez Pony, in the Dressage element.

development. The American Driving Society generously covered his travel expenses in support of the junior driver development at the event. A Driving Trial requires more than 50 volunteers during the competition. The MDS organizing committee thanks them for their contribution. They also acknowledge the outstanding job done by Lenay Gutoski as this year’s show manager and show secretary. c For results and more information please go to www.manitobadrivingsociety.com.

Grit and Determination

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At the annual North American Junior & Young Riders Championship in Lexington, KY, the Chefs d’Equipe from all the disciplines vote on a “Horse Power” Award. The fabulous barefooted, DJB Brave Heart was this year’s winner, as the “Coolest Horse” in the competition. He was selected over all the Eventers, Dressage Horses, Reiners, Jumpers, and Vaulters. He is all of 13 hh, with a victorious rise over a horrendous start in life: he was rescued by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, when he was discovered fighting big “cats” in a ring near Houston, TX. Ridden by Hunter Green for USA North, he finished Top Ten in the 75 Mile Endurance Ride. He was also the only horse to be ridden or finished totally barefooted (no boots, no sole guard of any kind). Not only were the other horses shod, but many were padded. DJB Brave Heart is owned by Darolyn Butler and has been trained by many, but his true spirit is Devan Horn who had the first feeling of destiny for this little horse. c

Horse Country competition and birthday draw results Answer the question below correctly and you will be entered to win one of these great prizes! Question: “What month was Event-Full for Helping Hooves of Manitoba?” (Answer found in this issue.)

n sheet

red cotto

Embroide

Congratulations to Danielle Dunn of Winnipeg, this issue’s winner, who chose a Canada West Boots Gift Certificate. The correct answer to the question “How many plaits in the kangaroo whip pictured in an article in this issue?” was “12”. The next contest deadline is 5:00 p.m. on September 23, 2013. No purchase necessary. The winner will be drawn from all correct entries received by the deadline. Entries must be marked “Horse Country 2013 competition”.

Subscriber Draw (see page 47)

Congratulations to Jack Penner of Warburg, AB, whose 1-year subscription will be doubled to two years.

Thank you to our participating retailers: Champion Charms, Canada West Boots, Front Runner Feeds, Landmark Feeds, BlueBear Farms, Miracle Ranch Equipment, Glover Equine Products, Horse Country Bookstore, and others. Prizes may not be exactly as shown. No dollar value applies to prizes.

ANSWER: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

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YOUR NAME: _________________________________________________________________________________________

EMAIL: _______________________________________________________________________________________________ MAILING ADDRESS: __________________________________________________ POSTAL CODE: ________________ DAY PHONE: ____________________________________ EVENING PHONE: ___________________________________ Contest deadline is 5:00 p.m. on August 12, 2013. No purchase necessary. The winner will be drawn from all correct entries received by the deadline. Entries must be marked “Horse Country 2013 competition” and mailed to Horse Country, Suite 203, 23-845 Dakota Street, Winnipeg, MB R2M 5M3. Entries may also be emailed to contact@horsecountry.ca but MUST include all the information requested above. Subject line should be “Horse Country 2013 competition”. Employees or sub-contractors of Horse Country and participating sponsors are not eligible to win. This information is used only by Horse Country and is not sold, bartered, traded or given to any other parties. If you do not wish to cut your magazine a photocopy entry of the page is acceptable. One entry per household.

The Adequan FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships Presented by Gotham North July 17-21, 2013 eventing and the FEI World Equestrian Games disciplines of reining and endurance. The competition is run under rules of the FEI (Federation Equestre Internationale), the international governing body for equestrian sport, and is the only FEI championship held annually on this continent.

Medal wrap-up for the Canadians at the NAJYRC. Endurance Silver - Team - Team Canada (Emma Webb (ON)/ Jessica Yavis (AB)/Jaylene Janzen(AB) Silver - Individual - Emma Webb (ON) & Vagas Eventing

Bronze - Junior Individual - April Simmonds (ON) & Impressively Done

Dressage

Gold - Junior Freestyle - Laurence Blais Tetreault (QC) & Lowelas Gold - Junior Team - Team Quebec (Blais Tetreault/Moreira Laliberte/Boucher/Cote Villeneuve) Silver - Junior Freestyle - Naima Moreira Laliberte (QC) & Windbreaker 3 Silver - Junior Individual - Naima Moreira Laliberte (QC) & Windbreaker 3 Bronze - Young Rider Freestyle - Tanya Strasser Shostak (QC) & Action Tyme

Reining

Gold - Young Rider Team - Team Canada (Aebly(AB)/M. Steed(AB)/Thomson(AB)) Gold - Young Riders Individual - Madison Steed (AB) & Jumpin Jac Trash Silver - Junior Team - Team Canada (H. Steed(AB)/Wilson(ON)/Whiteside(AB)/Franc(SK)) Silver - Junior Individual - Emily Wilson (ON) & Miss Cielo Chex Bronze - Junior Individual - Maxine Whiteside (AB) & Sailors Good Sackett

Full NAJYRC results can be found at: www.youngriders.org

Watch this golf cart interview by Horse Junkies United with Emily Ferguson and Mackenzie Thiessen, both from Winnipeg. They were part of the Manitoba/ Ontario Dressage Team, placing ninth. Watch their golf cart interview. www.horsejunkiesunited.com/ ?p=65192 The daily write-ups (with photos) from NAJYRC will remain on Horse Countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home page until October 1, when they will be moved to the archives page.

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The NAJYRC is the premier equestrian competition in North America for junior and young riders, age 14-21. Young equestrians come from the United States, Bermuda, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean Islands to vie for team and individual FEI medals in the three Olympic equestrian disciplines of show jumping, dressage,

What Rodeo means to me an essay by Holly Madsen

Rodeo: A public exhibition of cowboy skills. That may be

what do you have? I have fun at every rodeo I go to. No

the dictionary definition for rodeo, but it’s far from my

matter how windy or rainy, I have fun every time!

definition. What rodeo means to me is meeting new people. When

in rodeo; all the animals from the bucking bulls to barrel

I first started rodeoing I was really shy, but all the people

horses. They are all extremely important, because if

were really nice and welcoming and soon I had a lot of

we didn’t have one certain group the rodeo would be

new friends! I was also given a mentor to help me out. It

incomplete.

was a great to have her to be there, as she helped me with

Rodeo means being competitive. You become more

things such as getting my horse in the arena, giving me

competitive with every run or ride you make. Competition

advice and any other things I needed help with.

is a good thing; unless that’s all you care about. You have

Rodeo means learning responsibility. Rodeo takes a

Rodeo means judges. If rodeo didn’t have judges you

you won’t get entered for the rodeo. Maybe you forgot to

wouldn’t be sure exactly when your time stopped, or if

put something in the trailer, or left your back number at

your catch was legal. Judges are incredibly important.

probably won’t get the opportunity to compete. Rodeo means respecting others. You have to respect others in rodeo. If you don’t you’re not likely to get any

Rodeo means volunteers. Volunteers at a rodeo do so many different things. Such as work the canteen, rake the arena or even picking up hats out of the arena. Volunteers are a key role in a rodeo.

back. Respect isn’t hard to give; it can be something simple

To make a rodeo run you need many different things;

like telling someone they had a good run, or picking up

stock, judges, contestants, volunteers and so much

their hat. You should respect your parents for getting you

more. Without any of these things, no rodeo would be

to and from the rodeo, and they likely paid for your entries

possible.

too. So respect that.

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to have other aspects too.

huge amount of responsibility, if you aren’t responsible

home. You must be responsible in rodeo, otherwise you

Rodeo means animals. The animals play a huge role

My name is Holly Madsen and I have been in High

Rodeo means being passionate. If you are passionate

School Rodeo for three years and have come to this

for what you do you are more likely to be good at it. Being

conclusion; What rodeo means to me, is dedication, guts,

passionate means that you will take the time to practice

love and glory. If you don’t have that you’re in no shape to

your events to get better at them. It means that you will

rodeo. Rodeo is a passion, and it’s my passion and I intend

strive to improve your skills.

to do it until I can’t anymore.

Rodeo means having fun. If you don’t have fun, then

That’s what rodeo means to me.

Horse Country was proud to offer a scholarship package to

Holly Madsen was one of two runners up and won a

Manitoba High School Rodeo Association riders for the 2012/13

$50 scholarship with her essay published above. Holly has

season. Students were asked to use their creative writing skills

competed in rodeo for three years, in Breakaway roping, goat

and write about rodeo. For example, to write about the effort it

tying, pole bending and barrel racing. Congratulations to all

takes to compete in MHSRA – the trials and tribulations, etc.

entrants and good luck in the next season of rodeo.

Tornado!!

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Reader Ashley Hogdins of Saskatchewan sent this picture of her yearling Andalusian cross running after a recent tornado. Ashley wrote, “We are about 7 minutes through the bush from Pipestone. The tornado did not come through our property but we saw a large rotating cloud on the ground at the neighbor’s directly across the road. They lost two sheds, a truck (a shed landed on it) and they had damage to their home. Apart from one tree coming down on our horse shelter and six other trees coming down across the property, we came through better than our neighbors. I have five horses and two minis. Prior to the storm they were all huddled in their shelter and when we left to go seek shelter at our neighbor’s (we do not have a basement) they were still there. When we got home my 13 year-old mare was shaking uncontrollably and the rest of the horses were running around bucking. It took them about an hour to settle down and go out grazing again after the storm was finished. c

Ears: your horse’s other eyes

Pinna (Auricle)

Our horses’ ears tell their various emotional reactions, and alert us to unseen dangers. How much do you know about the equine auditory system?

www.merckmanuals.com

by Ishbel Moore

Vestibular system Ossicles (hammer, anvil and stirrup) Cochlea Auditory nerve Eustachian tube opening Ear canal

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A Short Lesson on the Anatomy of the Ear – From the Outside In:

Pinna or Auricle: Made out of a large amount of cartilage, this outer portion of the ear is what most horse people consider the best clue to how a horse is feeling. The shape allows horses to capture more sound than we can. Ears attach to the head of the horse by a thin covering of skin and muscles, with 16 muscles controlling each pinna. Humans have only three such muscles and they are almost useless. Ear Canal: The horse’s ear canal is rather long, making examination of the ear drum basically impossible. Ear Drum or Tympanic Membrane: Lies at the end of the canal and picks up the sound waves – the starting place of hearing. Middle Ear or Tympanic Cavity: Begins on the inner side of the Tympanic Membrane, and is where the three smallest bones in the body are found; malleus (hammer), incus (anvil), and stapes (stirrup). At the end of the chain of bones, the stapes rests on another membrane, separating the middle ear from the inner ear. Inner Ear or Cochlea: This fluid-filled snail-shaped labyrinth of channels contains thousands of sensory cells. The cells send signals to the auditory nerve (to do with hearing) and the vestibular nerve (to do with balance). Sound waves are transmitted to the brain along this amazingly delicate system and become what your horse

Eardrum

Tympanic cavity

hears long before you pick up any noise. “Horses can hear moderately loud sounds between 55 Hz and 33.5 kHz. Humans cannot hear sounds higher than 20 kHz” – Rickye Heffner, PhD, Professor of Psychology, University of Toledo and specialist in mammal hearing.

Reaction to Sounds:

The horse has the ability to detect a wide range of highfrequency sounds which is very important for his survival. He does not focus on the exact location of the sound. He only needs an approximation, so he can bolt in the other direction to safety. Indeed, spooking often happens due to the fact that the horse can only locate the general direction of a noise and not the exact origin. In another example, if a plastic bag is being blown around on your left, and you wonder if your horse has noticed it, check out his left ear. If the open part of the ear swivels toward the bag, then he has seen it. This is called the Pryer Reflex. If he cannot bolt, he will freeze in the hopes that his staying physically still might make him “invisible” to the predator. We see this often in horses grazing in enclosures or fields, as well as in the wild. When disturbed by a “new” noise, their heads come up and turn towards the sound, ears straining to catch any indication of approaching danger, their chewing stops, and the whole body stiffens. It is believed that male horses have stronger reactions to sound because they are the herd protectors, but it is not

in fly season? There is a good chance that this is caused by fly bites / dermatitis, and is not uncommon. Gentle cleaning will remove any crusted blood and debris. Some overthe-counter remedies include hydrocortisone creams or Hearing Loss: Heffner says, “Like any other animal, horses can have hemorrhoid creams containing shark oil. If possible, keep hearing loss due to age, some antibiotics, ear mites, and them inside during the day and turn them out at night. Fly masks that cover the ears are often helpful. genetic disorders.” Leave the hair inside the horse’s ear long. Other owner/ In people, age-related hearing loss starts around 20 years-old, starting with the higher frequencies. However, riders swear by the application of a smear of petroleum it is not generally obvious until we are over 50 years-old, jelly that protects the inner surface of the ears. There are which is 15 years-old in a horse (unless the horse has fly sprays but some horses are more sensitive to these than been exposed to loud sounds which would promote/ others. You should not apply a concentrated fly spray/ cause hearing loss). As noted, the horse has a wider high- repellent to the inner surface of the ear; read the label. frequency of hearing than we do, so he can lose more of A note about black flies: Thought to spread a virus that causes flat, grey-white papilomas found on the inside of it before we notice. “You should not depend on the horse to know where the pinna. Usually these scaly lesions do not cause the sounds are coming from when out riding,” Heffner horse much of a problem, and generally no treatment is advises, “and if the loss is severe, the horse may not detect recommended. Peripheral Vestibular Disease: Occurs oncoming vehicles or other animals. when disease or infection affects the innerIt might, therefore, be startled more middle ear, or the horse sustains a head than usual when something suddenly trauma. Symptoms can include bleeding comes into view.” from the ear canal, tilting of the head, and Heffner states, “Not all horses a loss of balance. who fail to respond to a sound do so Gutteral Pouch Disease: Guttural pouches because they can’t hear it. They may are sacs that open into the Eustachian not be attending to the sound or they tubes of the inner ears. Due to their may have learned that the sound is not close proximity to the pharynx, any informative or important.” bacterial upper respiratory infections can spread into the pouches and result in an Some Ear Problems: accumulation of pus. This can also cause Droopy Ear: A droopy ear is an swelling and hearing loss. indication of paralysis of the 7th cranial Middle Ear Infection: Not a common nerve. Horses with this usually also equine issue, but one we should be have incoordination. Halter buckles aware of. When a horse has a middle ear are the most common cause of this Inward-curving ears are a infection, the problem usually spreads damage. characteristic trait of the Marwari and downward, causing inflammation of the Ear Mites: Although not a common Kathiawari horses from India. tympanic bulla (where the middle ear lies) problem, some mites produce a wax as well as the stylohyoid bone of the skull. plug to protect themselves from the outside world and any medications cannot reach them. A very severe middle ear infection, if left undetected and This also affects hearing. Mites live in the ear canal, near untreated can result in neurological problems. Watch for the ear drum, and cannot always be seen, except by using ear rubbing, head tossing, chomping movements, pain an otoscope. Consult your vet as heavy sedation may be at the base of the ear, depression, head tilted to one side, walking in circles and dizziness. needed to properly examine the canal. Fly bite dermatitis: Age is not the only cause of hearing Parotitis: Swelling and inflammation of the parotid loss. Ears should be checked weekly for signs of infection salivary gland just below the ear. Although this does not or infestation. Rubbing, scratching, redness or hair loss involve the actual ear, the problem can bring on hearing on or around the ear could indicate the presence of pests, loss. such as ticks, ear mites. Have you noticed the inside of your horse’s ear has welts continued on page 34

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thought that their hearing is any more keen than that of the females.

continued from page 33

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Ear Sarcoids: Small local tumors (not necessarily cancerous) of varying appearance and are believed to have a viral origin. Regardless, sarcoids can be difficult to differentiate from proud flesh and summer sores, so call the vet, as prognosis and treatment could be vital. (Note: Squamous Cell Carcinoma can occur sometimes in the ear.) Neonatal Ears: In evaluation of the newborn foal, extremely floppy ears can be caused by poor development of the cartilage, prematurity or dysmaturity. Small hemorrhages on the inner surface of the ear might be a sign of neonatal septicemia. Call the vet! Dentigerous Cyst / Ear Tooth: An ear fistula or conchal sinus, and relatively rare, the ear tooth can cause discharge from the ear. This is a result of a congenital defect during the development of dental material. The first sign of an ear tooth is swelling at the base of the ear. A secondary bacterial infection with white/yellow discharge often accompanies this. The only viable treatment is surgical removal.

The Twitch:

You may have seen someone grab the ear of a badly behaving horse in an attempt to subdue it. While this can be an effective mechanism, it is not recommended. The horse may react violently, and if the horse is already head shy for some reason, your actions will make him worse. There are a lot of nerves at the base of the ear as well as cartilage, and if they get damaged through rough handling, you could cause a permanently droopy ear or disfigurement. The chain and stick twitch should never be used on the ear!

Be Vigilant:

The ears of a horse can tell us much while they add to the horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall beauty. As with all horse health concerns, the animal cannot use words to tell us about a problem. It is up to us to be vigilant, observant, and intelligent, including ear health. We all love when the horse comes to our call, or acts appropriately to our vocal commands. This would not be the case if your horse could not hear. If you have any questions regarding potential problems with your horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ears, do not hesitate to contact your vet. c

from Kim Maharaj

The CCRHA held another successful Wheat City Reining Intermediate Nonpro was won on the first day by Derek Derby in Brandon on June 15 and 16. We would like to Arbez and Jacs Especial Whiz, and by Jacqueline Darroch extend our thanks to the Westoba Centre of Agricultural riding Spookabella on Sunday with a score of 73! She also Excellence and to the CanadInns for their hospitality. The added the Novice Horse Level 1 and 2 to her wins with weekend saw many great runs and we welcomed new this fabulous run. Kim Maharaj and Made Whiz Smarts participants and old friends. won both the Novice Horse Nonpro Saturday morning started Level 1 and 2 on the Saturday. Carol with the Ranch Reining class. Weiler and Tailored in Jewels won the Congratulations to Austin Leposa Prime Time Nonpro. on her win on Colonels Whiz N Guy Robertson was the weekend Gun. She was no stranger to the winner for the Novice Horse Open winners circle all weekend, taking Level 1 and 2 both days; the first day home four wins over the two days riding Baby Steps, owned by Tiffany Kidd, and the second day on Just off including the Ranch Reiner, the NRHA Green Reiner Level 1 and 2 Center, owned by Tammy Holm. Nonpro Derby Champion Kim Maharaj and Made and the Youth 13 and Under. Way Whiz Smarts. The Intermediate Open went to Kyle to go, Austin! Shaw and Goin to Pic A Chic, owned Another multiple winner was by Grant Ryan, on Saturday, and Corrie Hipwell. She had two Bob Ward and Gun It With A Dun mounts with her at the show. on Sunday. Prescribed By Major, owned by The Nonpro Derby was held on Craig and Lore Frondall, took Saturday and saw Kim Maharaj and home the Ladies and Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class, Made Whiz Smarts going home with the Rookie Professional and the the Morrison and the championship Limited Open on both days. Her blanket. This was her first Derby win. horse, Whiz Bang Chex, also did She thanks Jeff Kasten for all the hard Open Derby Champion Kyle Shaw and Going to Pic A not disappoint as they came out Chic, owned by Grant Ryan. work in helping her prepare, and the winners of the Green Horse hauling her horse all the way back on Sunday. Jamie Feller and his to Canada for her. The Open Derby stallion, Jacs Lady Got Tagged, edged her out the first day went to Kyle Shaw and Going to Pic A Chic. Bred, raised for the win in the Green Horse. and owned by Grant Ryan, Going to Pic a Chic continues The NRHA Green Reiner Level 1 and 2 saw different to prove herself in the show pen. Shown by Kyle Shaw, winners on Sunday. Brittany Reutter and Mr. Freeway Pep resident trainer at Ryans Reining Horses in Portage la took their first win in the Level 1, and Carrie Bibik and her Prairie MB, the pair scored a weekend high of 74! new mount, Nics Easter Bud, won the Level 2. The CCRHA Thank you to all the volunteers, sponsors and Green Rider went to Chelsea Weiler and Miss Smart Gay competitors for making the Wheat City Derby another Bar the first day, and to Derek Arbez and Jacs Especial successful show. We always appreciate our neighbors from Whiz on the Sunday. Saskatchewan for including this show in their circuit and Talia Bertrand-Meadows and Fancy Footprint made coming out to support our association. their debut as a team at this show and she was able to We look forward to seeing everyone at the Rudko take home the hardware in the Youth 13 and Under the Summer Slide, July 20-21 and the CCRHA Summer first day. The Youth 14-18 saw Brooklyn Braun riding Sizzler, August 17-18. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to also mark your Peppys on Top, the winner on both days. The Rookie calendar for the Central Canada Slide N Spin and Western Level 2 found Raelyn Serhan and Hes a Stylish Juice in Canada Affiliate Finals September 19-21, 2013, at the the picture both days. Megan Robinson and Kachina Tag Westoba ACE Arena, Brandon. Contact Sherry Gruhle, Chex took home the Nonpro and Limited Nonpro on ccrhashowdirector@ccrha.com. Entry forms available at Sunday; another win for this very competitive duo. The www.ccrha.com

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Central Canada Reining Horse Association

CCRHA - the Wheat City Reining Derby

Around... and About... Have you, or someone you know, won an award, been nominated to a Board, done something special? Do you know of something you think other riders would be interested in? Saskatchewan Long Riders has reorganized and is now live again! Tracy Vollman is President, Cathy Coutu Vice President and Diane Trundle Secretary/Treasurer. There are three rides on their calendar this year. (Sanctioned provincially this year, however there are plans to sanction with Endurance Canada next year.) Jumping Deer Creek Run was held June 15 near Lipton, SK. The trails were along sand/dirt roads and through a scenic pasture valley with some large hills (large by Saskatchewan standards). There were 16 riders entered and 11 completed. The group received many compliments on their first ride this year, which will be an annual event. Hillbilly Highways Run will be held September 7-8, near Prince Albert, SK. To see some great pictures and for updates on our events check the Facebook page “Sask Long Riders”, or contact Diane Trundle, 306-771-4566, altair.arabians@gmail.com

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Employment Opportunity - Only in Manitoba

Seen on Facebook: “Bandits on horseback are needed to rob the train this Sunday. Lots of passengers with loot. Must be able to control your horse, have western tack, cowboy hat. Guns and holsters can be provided. Must be able to get your horse to Grosse Isle for 11am August 4th.” What’s this about? The Prairie Gunslingers are a group of horseback riders from the Manitoba Interlake that stage train robberies aboard the Prairie Dog Central Railway, and are also available for hire as Sheriffs at corporate events. Their robberies regularly raise more than $500 for local charities. On July 29 they were featured on a Breakfast TV episode when they robbed the presenter. For more information go to www.prairiegunslingers.com

Let us know what’s happening in your neighborhood. Send comments and web links to editor@horsecountry.ca.

Dr. Fred Lindenschmidt – Award of Merit Awarded by the MVMA (Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association) Council, the Award of Merit recognizes veterinarians and other individuals who have made significant contributions towards the achievement of the MVMA’s vision. Dr. Lindenschmidt has been the PIPS (Practice Inspection, Practice Standards) Coordinator since 2002. The position was created to support the Registrar with the PIPS process including by-law interpretation, by-law development, PIPS Inspector training and supervision, as well as the completion of clinic inspection reports. The Registrar commends Dr. Lindenschmidt as being able to take the by-laws and apply them in a realistic manner; making rigid rules work in the real world. The MVMA Council identified that Dr. Lindenschmidt has tirelessly volunteered his time for so many years and notes his willingness to continue this tremendous support of the association. The Canadian Western Horse Association reported that their show in conjunction with the Triple S Fair was a huge success. It was very well attended, with over 70 competitors! A big thank you went to everyone who attended, also to all who volunteered for the day, CWHA could not have done it without you! The team at the Selkirk Fair did a great job throughout the day and were a pleasure to work with.

Eric Martin during an interview after his win in the $33,000 Wood Automotive Group CSI** Grand Prix at the Rocky Mountain Classic.

(Left to right) Luis Carrion, Doug Hoskins, Trophy Presenter, Gerald Levin, Pierce Alworth.

Eric Martin and Camil achieved one of five clear rounds on Saturday August 10th, 2013, at the $33,000 Wood Automotive Group CSI** Grand Prix . Eric was third to go in the jump off and secured the win with the fastest of only two double clear rounds. See the round here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=aw-Ywr8siHA Eric’s daughter Helen is following solidly in her father’s hoofprints: earlier the same day she won her speed class and finished champion on the 2’6” Hunter Division.

Members of the Royal Winnipeg Polo Club traveled to the Twin City Polo Club, Minneapolis, MN, on the July long weekend and won the 5 goal United States Polo Association Constitution Cup. In the finals they defeated the Kicking Horse Ranch Polo Team from Des Moines, Iowa, by a score of 7 to 6. Club members also travelled to the Toronto Polo Club to play in the Polo Canada Invitational Tournament the weekend of July 13-14. For more information on the Royal Winnipeg Polo Club please call 204-489-0099.

Calgary Stampede Round-Up It only took three rounds of competition and 6,500 pounds of deadweight to establish Randy Dodge’s New West Truck Centres Belgians as the top team in the Stampede’s Heavy Horse Pull Lightweight division. Dodge’s duo of 9-year-old Red and 6-year old Bud were the reserve champions in 2012. This year, on a tricky surface in the Big Top, they bettered that performance by one place. “They don’t like deep sand,” says Dodge, who treks up from Albany, OR, to make his Stampede headquarters with Stan Grad of Soderglen Ranches near Airdrie. “My horse fell down on the first load. He didn’t know what his footing was. Once he learned what the footing was, he got a lot smarter.” The division attracted an eight-team field of Belgians, Clydesdales, Percherons and Shires, which weighed in at a combined two-horse weight of 2,400 to 3,000 pounds. The lightweights are the only equines that regularly pull three times their weight. The final pull by Red and Bud amounted to 2.2 times their weight.

Heavy Horse Pull - Middleweight

Eleven top pulling teams hooked up their horses and put the power down. It took nine rounds, and 10,000 pounds, before Randy Dodge’s New West Truck Centre Belgians could claim victory. Ron Sebastian of Lumsden, SK and his Jens Lowline Cattle outfit lost to Dodge in the last round. Kevin Danyluk of Colinton, AB went out in round eight. The middleweight teams weighed in at a combined two-horse weight of 3,001 to 3,500 pounds.

Heavy Horse Pull - Heavyweight

‘Go big or go home’ was Nick Barney’s attitude when he brought the heaviest team of horses to Stampede and he went back home to Rigby, ID a winner. The Heavyweight class is for two-horse teams with a combined weight over 3,501 pounds. Tug and Spy, Barney’s team, weighed in at an impressive 4,707 pounds – 285 pounds more than the next-heaviest team. The competition continued on page 38

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Heavy Horse Pull - Lightweight

continued from page 37

on Sunday was strong, with all nine of the competitors lasting until the third pull, at 8,000 pounds, before one fell out. Going into pull eight, with 10,500 pounds on the sled, there were still three teams in the hunt. The No Point Ranch team of Colinton, AB’s Kevin Danyluk pulled 88 inches before having to stop. The Befus Construction outfit of Bob McGowan from Lebanon, OR managed to drag the sled 108 inches before coming to a halt. Barney’s Catalyst LLP team pulled last, and he admits he was nervous after seeing the others falter. Tug and Spy did their best, and their efforts measured out to 136 inches – giving Barney the victory by a margin of 28 inches.

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Canadian National Miniature Horse Show

Her full name is ‘Hot Child in the City’, but the people who love her call her ‘Hottie’ – and not without reason. The diminutive four-year old from Calgary not only won the title of Canadian National Senior Mare Champion, but was also judged Canadian National Supreme Halter Horse . “We bred her and have both of her parents and her grandparents,” says Stephani Pappas of First Knight Miniatures. In business for 27 years, Stephani says the business began when her mom K.C., a keen horsewoman, was pregnant and saw some miniature horses at an auction. “She thought it would be an interesting thing to do, and it kind of took off from there.” The Canadian National Miniature Horse Show wasn’t all about Hottie, of course. Other winners were: HCM Warpaint’s Feeling Groovy shown by Calgarians Louise and Kim Locke in Country Pleasure Driving and Roadster, Imprint Totally Royal Sultan shown by K.C. Pappas in Junior Gelding, First Knight’s Return of the King shown by Randy McGowan of Okotoks in Senior Stallion, Samis Whiz Kid shown by Sarah Hunter of Strathmore in Single Pleasure Driving, First Knight’s Heir to the Throne shown by K.C. Pappas in Junior Stallion, the Lockes’ Circle J Princess in Pleasure Driving, First Knight’s American Idol shown by Taylor Gibbons of Calgary in Senior Gelding and Imprint Striders Special Reflection shown by K.C. Pappas in Junior Mare.

Rodeo - The Richest Afternoon

The Calgary Stampede Rodeo generated 10 days of fierce competition culminating in Rodeo’s Richest Afternoon. Six talented athletes were each presented with a cheque for $100,000.

This year’s winners are: Bradley Bynum, Sterling City, TX (Tie-Down Roping) 7.0 Caleb Bennett, Morgan, UT (Bareback) 92.00-Stampede Warrior Wade Sumpter, Fowler, CO(Steer Wrestling) 3.8 Cort Scheer, Elsmere, NE (Saddle Bronc) 93.50-Spring Planting Jean Winters, Texline, TX (Barrel Racing) 17.40 J.B. Mauney, Mooresville, NC (Bull Riding) 91.50-Bombs Away Champions also receive a trophy bronze that is representative of their event discipline. Showdown Sunday winners are invited to next year’s Calgary Stampede Rodeo.

Rodeo - Bucking horse Coconut Roll passes

For years, the name Coconut Roll brought respect, excitement and a touch of fear into the hearts of bareback cowboys across North America. Earlier this week, this famous Calgary Stampede bucking mare died after chronic illness at the age of 20. Coconut Roll bucked her way to the Canadian Finals Rodeo 11 times and to National Finals Rodeo 10 times. Her “Roll” name came from her mother Rolly Polly, and her father was famous bucking horse Wild Strawberry - themselves both selected many times for the U.S. and Canadian Finals. For those cowboys who hung on, Coconut Roll carried them to the pay window 114 times., earning $550,000. She was a key mare in the Stampede’s Born to Buck program and is perhaps best known as the natural mother of the Stampede’s top champion bucking horses Grated Coconut and Kauai Coconut.” c

Left to Right; Teresa McConnell on Charlotte, Sandy Yake on Revenge; Dianne Brown on Darby, Donna McConnell on Willie, (kneeling) our M.C. Carson McConnell, Kristi Guilford on Mocha, Laura Harms on Boomerang, Donna Decosse on Sonny, Sally Calcotte on Clay.

The Prairie Spirit Riders are an equine drill team formed five years ago by Donna McConnell of Pilot Mound and Sandy Yake from Mather, Manitoba. It started out with 12 riders but after a bit of time ended up with 8 totally committed team members. They ride once a week from April (weather permitting) through till October, and perform in several events during the summer months. They have ridden at Cartwright Ponderosa Days and Parade for two years, Killarney Fair, Manitou Fair. Cancer fundraiser trail ride at Pleasant Valley for three

Erin Watt on Dual What.

Buck McEwen on Freckled Merada.

years, Prairie View Lodge five years in a row, Pilot Mound, Crystal City Days for three years and Carberry Fair this summer. Donna says, “We love to ride and go on many trail rides through the Valley and at Spruce Woods. We are ready to perform at any event that is within a reasonable distance for us as we don’t charge very much. We have to pay our Music Man and hope to cover our expenses, which is just mileage.” c You can contact Donna at donnalar@mymts.net

Thanks to Maureen Scott for sending these pictures from a Manitoba Cutting Horse Association Jackpot held earlier this year at Garry Gerbrandt’s Meadowview Ranch.

Donna Reimer on Stylish Merada 004.

Derek Reimer on Nurse Ellard.

issue 6-2013 | www.horsecountry.ca

The Prairie Spirit Riders

Connections:

the economical section for buyers and sellers.

AMHR/AMHA mares for sale. One is dapple grey, 17 y.o., and one jet black 10 y.o., rebred for 2014. $700 each. We also have 2013 foals for sale Sept 1. Call Barb Glover, Boissevain. 204-534-6008 or email barb@gloverequine.com for more photos.

issue 6-2013 | www.horsecountry.ca

AMHR 2 y.o. sorrel gelding”Whiskey”. Really good with kids. Has been shown at local fairs, with costumes, bridges, jumping. Easy to catch. Call Barb Glover, Boissevain. 204-534-6008 or email barb@gloverequine.com for more photos.

Quarter Horse

Pretty 9 y.o. registered QH mare for sale. Loads, trailers, ties, trims, clips well. Approx. 15.1hh. Smooth ride and fast walker. Asking $3,000. Call 204-482-7339

AMHR yearling pinto “Xray”. Very nice conformation. Shown successfully as a weanling. Easy to catch and work with. $800. Call Barb Glover, Boissevain. 204-5346008 or email barb@gloverequine.com for more photos.

AMHR yearling black filly “Xavierra”$600. Very nice conformation Call Barb Glover, Boissevain. 204-5346008 or email barb@gloverequine.com for more photos.

EQUINE THERAPY Start a career with horses at the Academy of Equine Assisted Learning, 306-763-0386, www.cartierequinelearningcenter.com. (8-13)

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Harness and saddle repairs. Pat Lynch, Prairie Enterprises. 204-752-2162. (8-13)

DRIVING FOR SALE: : Vis-à-vis Carriage. Excellent condition. Can be used with top up or down. Can be pulled with one or two horses. Email lindmanni@hotmail.com or call 204-534-7096.

TRAILERS

Horse drawn wagon c/w double tree & yoke; all new. $3,200. 204=898-4067 drafthorse28@hotmail.com

Advantage Auto & Trailer Sales For all your trailer needs! Featherlite, Titan, Interstate, Load Trail, Aluma, 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. (1-14)

Classified Advertising Rates

All rates are prepaid. Add GST or HST as applicable in your home province. (No PST.) CONNECTIONS SECTION Horses For Sale: Until the end of 2013, text horse for sale ads are FREE (private sellers only). Add a picture for $24 + tax. 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 Line Advertising FREE: Subscribers’ personal line adverts, four times each year. Maximum 30 words per advert. Email to contact@horsecountry.ca or call 1-866886-2425. $1 per word: Business adverts. $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 10 weeks on horsecountry.ca. 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. ADVERTISERS PLEASE CALL: Linda Hazelwood 204-256-7467 or 1-866-886-2425; contact@horsecountry.ca.

HORSES FOR SALE

FOR SALE: JWH Color Peppy Star. 7 y.o. bay mare, reg. Quarter Horse. 15.2hh. Started on barrels, cattle and roping. Great on trails. Experienced rider only. $2,500. 204-482-4856. Winpy’s Peppy. 8 y.o. bay mare, registered Quarter Horse. 15.2hh. Will work cattle, trail ride, barrels. Very athletic, needs confident rider. Indoor riding arena available. $2,500. 204-482-4856. FOR SALE: JJS Playgirls Got Pep. 14 y.o. Buckskin mare, 14.3hh. Registered Quarter Horse. Cutting trained, competed in Team Penning, Reining. Great on trails. Quiet. $3,000. 204-482-4856. FOR SALE: Little Cojo. 10 y.o. mare, 14.2hh. “Silver Dapple” brown with grey mane and tail. Registered Quarter Horse. Works cattle, excellent show horse, schooling, all around horse. $6,000. 204-482-4856. FOR SALE: Appaloosa registered 4 y.o. stallion, loud color, from world champion bloodline. He has sired colored foals, and could continue to sire good colorful foals. We are no longer breeding full sized horses, and are moving, so he must sell. Will consider taking reg’d mini mares on trade, asking $2,000 or best offer. Located south of Regina, SK. Please contact for more info. 306-459-2885. FOR SALE: Appaloosa broodmares, 2 direct daughters of World Champion Appaloosa “TAX MAN”. Good natured mares, sound minded, both have given us colored foals. These mares sell as broodmares, they were never broke to ride. Open for breeding. We are no longer breeding full sized horses and are moving, so they must sell. $2,000 each, or both for $3,000. These are very good mares, an asset to any breeding program. Located south of Regina, SK. 306-459-2885. FOR SALE: “Hugs” Two Blazing Swift, 2003 AQHA Bay Mare. 15hh. $5,500. Jansen, SK. Ccurrently being used at a 25000hd feedlot. Works cattle, gates and has done some roping. A “jump on and go” type. Had a year off (rider’s maternity leave), went back to work with no issue. Loads, ties, stands good for the farrier and bathes. Rides saddled or bareback, with a snaffle, hackamore (bosal) or halter. First job was calving season, covered lots of miles each day, roping and tagging calves. Has an excellent long trot. Has been ridden by kids in the arena and round pen. Has been used by an 8 y.o. beginner for 4H, last summer was started in English and over jumps. Email aorchard@live.ca or phone 306364-4735. FOR SALE: “Vegas”. 2003 Red Roan Mare. 15hh. $4,500. Jansen, SK. Has been used mainly at a 25000hd feedlot. A friendly mare, easy to catch. Loads, ties, bathes, and is good

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Chocolate Palomino 2013 Morgan Colt. Big, athletic, upright colt with great hip and shoulder. Mature to 15hh+. Well handled, halter broke, good with farrier, UTD on worming and shots. Registered, color tested. Weaned and ready to go ! More photos at www.couleebendmorgans.com Email: lcdietz@cciwireless.ca or phone 780-583 2128

FOR SALE: Quarter Horse Team. 11 year old mares. Extremely quiet, sound and very well trained. Been driven in country and town. Great with people; young or old. Also selling harness and wagon. Call 204-534-7096 or email lindmanni@hotmail.com

continued from page 41

Gaited horse owners - have you heard about SynchroGait TM

for the farrier. She works cattle and gates and and is good to ride on her own. I ride her under saddle or bareback, with a snaffle, hackamore(bosal) or halter. Phone 306-3644735 or email aorchard@live.ca FOR SALE: 1- Apx 15.3hh TB/QH mare 8 y.o. Bay; 1- Apx 14.1hh Trakehner X mare 6 y.o. Bay; 1- Apx 15.3hh Trakehner X mare 7 y.o. Chestnut. All have been worked on the ground, round penned, quiet and soft. Must go to good homes. Open to reasonable offers. dkhunter@goinet.ca 204-480-5329. FOR SALE: 2005 Trakehner gelding. 16.2hh. By Sporthorse approved stallion Liebreiz, out of CWHBA premium mare Serene Sunday. Has been professionally trained. Very uncomplicated horse. Trailers, ties,and is not a one person horse! Has been in German Baca clinics for 2 years, and comments are highly positive, whether he is packing nervous amateur trying to regain confidence or a trainer. Loves the trials too. $10,000 + GST. Open to serious offers, this boy deserves his own person. Video and undersaddle photos available. apexfarms@sasktel.net Charmaine Bergman 306-764-7148. FOR SALE: “Arthur”. 17 y.o. 12.3hh Registered Welsh Gelding. Broke to ride English and Western and to drive. Currently being schooled up to 3 ft. Places well at shows. Also used for polo and roping and western. Rider is outgrowing. UTD on all shots, teeth, is good for the farrier. Super easy keeper, easy to load, just all around fun! Email horsecrazey@hotmail.com or phone 204-482-1061 for more information. . FOR SALE: 4 y.o. Registered Warmblood. Brave 16hh grey mare, beautiful mover, sound mind and good form over fences. VERY athletic young horse ready for a rider to take her to the next level! Asking $6,500. For more info phone 306-883-3992 or email dawnfriesen@hotmail.com FOR SALE: Paint weanlings/yearlings, all tobianos (buckskins, sorrels, blacks). Sire: QSR Thatsasweetrolex by A Tru Rolex, dams ranch bred. Call or email for pictures & pedigrees. sandramanz65@gmail.com or phone 306-692-0990.

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TACK

FOR SALE: Fabtron Extra Wide trail saddle in excellent condition. Extra wide 7 1/2” gullet, 16” suede, padded seat, 7/8 position double conventional rigging, heavy stainless steel dees, leather finished in a show brown, Cordura skirts, fenders & housings, approx. 22 lbs. Asking $400. Winnipeg. Email for pictures. stesch@thesoccerpatch.com FOR SALE: 15.5” Big Horn Show Saddle - Gently Used. Gorgeous show saddle - light tan in color with lots of silver. Asking $2,000 OBO. Comes with quilted zip-up saddle bag (has carrying strap). This saddle was only used to show in, NEVER for training. It is in EXCELLENT condition. 204-803-3977 or email brett.budge@hotmail.ca for pictures. FOR SALE: 16” Collegiate English Saddle. Used. Dark brown, in good condition. Comes with zip up saddle bag and cinch. Asking $375 OBO. 204-803-3977 or email brett.budge@hotmail.ca for pictures.

Report from the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, UC Davis SynchroGait is a diagnostic DNA test for a genetic variant (A) that has a major impact on the gait and coordination of horses. The discovery by researchers in Sweden showed that the mutation “facilitates lateral gaits, ambling and pace, and inhibits the transition from trot or pace to gallop”. The gait A variant has been identified as a major genetic factor for performance in trotting horses and ability to perform the additional “flying pace” in Icelandic horses. With SynchroGait owners can identify the innate ability of young horses for gait performance, to predict likely genotypes of offspring and to select optimal mates to maximize production of foals with the gait mutation. In breeds used for dressage or show jumping, where pacing is not a favorable trait, SynchroGait can be used to eliminate the pacing variant. Icelandic Horses have a genetic predisposition to perform five gaits (walk, tölt, trot, gallop and pace). Horses with the gait variant CA and CC are more likely to perform only four gaits (walk, tölt, trot and gallop).

Zip Lock Baggie Fly Control...........who knew?

In other gaited breeds the presence of the A variant predisposes horses to perform alternative gaits. CC horses are three-gaited. Breeds that can benefit from the SynchroGait test include: American Saddlebred, Miniature Horse, Bashkir Curly, Paint Horse, Kentucky Mountain Horse, Quarter Horse, Mangalarga, Tennessee Walking Horse, Morgan Horse, Peruvian Horse, Colombian Horse, (Paso Fino, Trocha, Trocha y Galope, Trote y Galope). The breed list will be updated as information develops. The Rocky Mountain Horse is not included in the the list of breeds that can benefit from this test because in the original studies all Rockies tested possessed the gene. In addition, the gene is associated with “lateral gaitedness” but it doesn’t differentiate between the different lateral gaits. www.capiletgenetics.com/en/start. The Veterinary Genetics Laboratory is licensed by Capilet Genetics to perform the SynchroGait test. Reference: Andersson LS, Larhammar M, Memic F, Wootz H et al. (2012) Mutations in DMRT3 affect locomotion in horses and spinal circuit function in mice. Nature 488(7413):642-6.

Sitting in the patio section of a restaurant, we noticed zip lock baggies pinned to a post and a wall. The bags were half filled with water, each contained 4 pennies, and they were zipped shut. The manager told us that these baggies kept the flies away! We actually watched some flies come in the open window, stand around on the

window sill, and then fly out again. The science behind the zip lock bags of water? It has been said that the millions of molecules of water presents its own prism effect. Given that flies have a lot of eyes, to them it’s like a zillion disco balls reflecting light, colors and movement in a dizzying manner. When you figure that flies are prey for many other bugs, animals, birds, etc., they simply won’t take the risk of being around that much action. c

Horse For Sale advertising Horse Country’s gift to you - October 14 edition: horse for sale text advertising is FREE! Add a picture for $24 + GST. 25 words maximum, private sellers only. Deadline is

September 23 - don’t miss it! Businesses - call for economical rates. Email: contact@horsecountry.ca Freephone 1-866-886-2425 Local: 204-256-7467. Fax: 204-257-2467. By mail: Suite 203, 23-854 Dakota Street, Winnipeg, MB R2M 5M3.

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. Non-profit rates available. Please note deadline and publishing dates on the opposite page. 1-866-886-2425 or email editor@horsecountry.ca

ALBERTA SEPTEMBER 2 CWHBA Stallion Licensing and National Mare Inspection. Horses in Hand Ranch, Red Deer. Entries due July 30. Local contacts Jill Owen, Janine Olsen. National Coordinator Jennette Coote 403-556-8046. www.canadianwarmbloods.com

ADMC BLHPS DSC DW E/CT MAHA MCHA MDS MHT MMHC MPC MPHC SAHA SIRAS SPC

Alberta Donkey & Mule Club Brandon Light Horse & Pony Society Dryden Saddle Club Dressage Winnipeg Endurance/Competitive Trail. Manitoba Arabian Horse Association Manitoba Cutting Horse Association Manitoba Driving Society Manitoba Horse Trials Manitoba Miniature Horse Club Manitoba Pony Club Manitoba Paint Horse Club Saskatchewan Arabian Horse Association South Interlake Rockwood Agricultural Society Springfield Polo Club

15/25/40 miles. Jessica Mannes 204-330-1773. northranch@hotmail.com Maura Leahy 204795-1915. Maura.Leahy@live.ca SEPTEMBER 7-9 MRCHBA Classic Quarter Horse Shows. WACE Arena, Brandon. Eryn Butterfield 204853-7376. erynbutterfield@hotmail.com

SEPTEMBER 7-8 Beausejour Double B Rodeo and Country Fair. Trevor Proutt. 204-205-0723. doublebrodeo@highspeedcrow.ca SEPTEMBER 13-14 MCHA. Brandon Show. www.mbcutting.ca chelseycoulter19@gmail.com

NOVEMBER 2-5 Peter Campbell Horsemanship, Cochrane. 403-246-6205. scrawford@blgcanada.com JANUARY 10, 2014 32nd Annual Horse Breeders & Owners Conference and Annual Stable Owners Seminar, Sheraton Hotel, Red Deer.

MANITOBA SEPTEMBER 6 CWHBA Stallion Licensing and National Mare Inspection. Winnipeg. Entries due July 30. Local Contact Dana Young. 204-966-3316. National Coordinator Jennette Coote 403-5568046. www.canadianwarmbloods.com SEPTEMBER 6-8 SPC. Wind’er-up and Shut’er-down Tournament, Springfield Polo Club, Birds Hill Park. Spencer Smith. 204-782-3252. SEPTEMBER 6-7 Beausejour High School Rodeo. Craig Boitson. 204-755-2924. doublebrodeo@highspeedcrow.ca

SEPTEMBER 7-8 3rd Annual Manitoba Equestrian Championships. Multiple disciplines. www.manitobahorsecouncil.ca SEPTEMBER 7-8 Manitoba Equestrian Championship. Birds Hill Park. Endurance 15/25/50 miles. CT

REGULAR EVENTS SPRINGFIELD POLO CLUB Season starts the May long weekend and ends September 15. Practice games are every Tuesday and Thursday, 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm. Formal games are Sundays at 1:00pm - 4:00pm.

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SEPTEMBER 7 The Pas Mud Bog. Stan Wilson. 204-623-6284, or cell 204-620-9623.

l a u se n r o An h per ity u S a b tur o t u i F n & Ma e l a S 0 5 / 0 5 FUTURITY

Catch the excitement October 25 & 26, 2013 at the Keystone Centre, Brandon, Manitoba www.manitobasuperhorse.com For more information call Eryn Butterfield - 204-792-6777 or Julie Bridgeman - 204-847-2112

Friday October 25, 8 a.m. Saturday October 26, 8 a.m.

issue 6-2013 | www.horsecountry.ca

Platinum Sponsors SWN Intl. Flaxbed Feedrite/Masterfeeds

Gold Sponsors

Total prize money $29,936.80

Sim Qua Ranch (Wayne & Liz Plett) Days Inn, Brandon Helstrom Performance Horses

October 26 at 3:00 p.m.

Farrell Agencies Ltd Van Guard Credit Union (Hamiota) Westgates Horse & Country Horse Country Magazine S & N Tack K & R Stuart Quarter Horses & Paints

SALE

Title Sponsor

Kubota Canada Ltd

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 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wildcardâ&#x20AC;? will have his/her choice of any weanling in the sale. Guaranteed $10,000 first place money for the 2015 futurity. Foals offered in the 2013 sale are eligible to win this money. Watch the website for the 2013 catalogue and new sale initiatives.

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

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsor

Murray Chevrolet Cadillac Silver Blanket Quarter Horses Wheat City Cowtown Rafter P Quarter Horse Ranch Photography By Carolynn

SEPTEMBER 14-15 Russell High School Rodeo. Lynda Witty. 204773-4743. lwitty@mts.net SEPTEMBER 15 Ride-A-Thon. Birds Hill Park; Khartum Shriners Arabian Horse Guard. Paul Kohlmeier; 204-467-2553. paulb.kohlmeier@gmail.com SEPTEMBER 20-22 Central Canada Slide N Spin and NRHA Western Canada Affiliate Finals. NRHA Approved. Westoba ACE Arena, Brandon. Sherry Gruhle, ccrhashowdirector@ccrha. com. Entry forms available at www.ccrha.com SEPTEMBER 21 Horse and Tack Sale, Grunthal Auction Mart. Tack 10am, horses 1pm. www.grunthallivestock.com SEPTEMBER 21-22 Endurance 15/25/50 miles both days. CT 15/25/40 miles. Bel Air. Tanya Tabin 204771-4701. anyatabin@gmail.com. Pot Luck Saturday. Iris Oleksuk 204-792-4125. irisolek@rainyday.ca SEPTEMBER 21–22 MCHA. MHC MEC Show. www.mbcutting.ca chelseycoulter19@gmail.com SEPTEMBER 22 Cream of the Crop Futurity & Sale. Eriksdale. Ruby Stuart 204-739-2119. mgstuart@mts.net SEPTEMBER 27-29 MHJA. Jump into Fall. Red River Exhibition Schooling Show. SEPTEMBER 28-29 MHT. Willville. Pre-Entry to Training available. Val Crowe pvcrowe@mymts.net. www.manitobahorsetrials.com OCTOBER 11 MQHA/AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse Show. WACE Arena, Keystone Centre. Larry Clifford 204-727-3661 scotiaopt@wcgwave.ca OCTOBER 12-14 MQHA Thanksgiving Classic Quarter Horse Shows. WACE Arena, Keystone Centre, Brandon. Larry Clifford 204-727-3661. scotiaopt@wcgwave.ca OCTOBER 25-26 Manitoba Superhorse 50/50 Sale & Futurity. Keystone Centre, Brandon. OCTOBER 26-27 Bluebear Farms Halloween Show. Contact Sheryl at bfeller@mymts.net for information. OCTOBER 31 - NOVEMBER 2 Manitoba Livestock Expo, Brandon. Karen Oliver. 204-726-3590. info@brandonfairs.com NOVEMBER 8-12 Certified Horsemanship Association instructor certification clinic (western & english). Contact Sheryl at bfeller@mymts.net for info and to register either as a participant seeking certification or as an auditor. NOVEMBER 8-12 Bluebear Farms Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) instructor certification

clinic (western & english). Contact Sheryl at bfeller@mymts.net for info and to register either as a participant seeking certification or as an auditor. NOVEMBER 23-24 Provincial Exhibition Schooling Show. Keystone Centre, Brandon. (Bronze.) DECEMBER 13 International Day of the Horse APRIL 18-20, 2014 Horse3, Keystone Centre, Brandon.

ONTARIO SEPTEMBER 7 CWHBA Stallion Licensing and National Mare Inspection. Guelph. Entry Due Date July 30. Local Contact Jackie Van den Brink. 519-624-7177. National Coordinator Jennette Coote 403-556-8046. www.canadianwarmbloods.com SEPTEMBER 14 DSC Horseshow, DDAS Fairgrounds. One Day show with both Performance and Gymkhana events. Becky Hoedl, 807-2166283. rrhoedl@drytel.net SEPTEMBER 15 DSC. Della Cryderman Clinic, DDAS Fairgrounds. Becky Hoedl 807-216-6283. rrhoedl@drytel.net NOVEMBER 1-10 Royal Winter Fair, Toronto. DECEMBER 13 International Day of the Horse

SASKATCHEWAN SEPTEMBER 14-15 SAHA. Fall Classic & Prairie Harvest Arabian and Open Breed Shows. Moose Jaw. SEPTEMBER 21 Diamond K Ranch Fall Production Sale. Candiac Auction Mart. 306-224-4288 or 306224-4733. diamondk@sasktel.net OCTOBER 5-6 SPHC. Harvest of Colours Saskatoon Show. Kerri-Anne Boxall 306-873-5123. Ronni Nordal 306-731-7573. NOVEMBER 9-11 Peter Campbell Horsemanship, Saskatoon. 204-842-3851. coyoteridge@xplornet.com NOVEMBER 19-24 Canadian Western Agribition. www.agribition.com DECEMBER 13 International Day of the Horse.

INTERNATIONAL AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 7, 2014 World Equestrian Games, Normandy, France.

Available digitally! $15 per year www.horsecountry.ca

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.)

Butte Morgans .. .. Canvasback .. .. CQHA .. .. .. Diamond K Ranch .. Diamond Shelters .. Dust Off .. .. Elder’s Equine Clinic .. Equiline .. .. Equine Body Bling .. Ferris Fencing .. .. Glover Equine .. .. Grunthal Livestock .. Infrared Heating Panels .. Integrated Bio Systems .. Manitoba Superhorse 50/50 Maple N Mane & Giddy Up Morgans .. Masterfeeds/Front Runner.. Miracle Ranch Equipment One Insurance .. .. Parkland Ranch .. .. Penner Farm Services .. Poco-Razz Farm .. .. Ram Heavy Duty .. Raspberry Field Morgans.. Ride N Drive Horse Supplies Ritchie Bros. .. .. Stone Creek Western Shop.. WW Stables .. ..

23 26 31 43 48 15 20 29 17 31 25 43 17 31 44 25 27 27 6 29 34 34 11 24 38 44 44 44

ATTENTION B U S I N E S S E S!

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 Linda at 204-256-7467 Publication Schedule 2013/14 (8 issues - every six weeks) Issue Space Material # booking closing 7-13 Sept 16 Sept 23 8-13 Oct 28 Nov 4 1-14 Jan 13 Jan 20 2-14 Feb 17 Feb 24 3-14 Mar 31 Apr 7 4-14 May 12 May 19

Published week of Oct 14 Nov 25 Feb 3 Mar 17 Apr 28 June 9

issue 6-2013 | www.horsecountry.ca

SEPTEMBER 13-15 MHT. Derby. Birds Hill Park Grand Prix. Winnipeg. (All.)

On the Bookshelf Heart Like An Ocean

issue 6-2013 | www.horsecountry.ca

By Christine Steendam: 5 Prince Publishing & Books LLC. 2013; 358 pages, soft cover ISBN 9781-939217-32-5. Christine Steendam lives in the geographical centre of Canada but has written a book where the heroine crosses the Atlantic in a pirate ship with her horse! In 1666, nice girls didn’t do things like that and our Spanish heroine, Senona, is able to keep her reputation intact as she runs away from home with her stallion, gets kidnapped, ends up in America, goes back to Spain and... well, you have to read the details yourself. There are enough brooding heroes, petulant heroines, crusty seamen, lords and ladies and disapproving parents to keep anyone enthralled. A great summer afternoon’s read.

Horses, ink.

A collection of Horse Cartoons by Dave Elston. Soft cover, 50+ pages. ISBN 09879558-0-7 Hilarious. We’ll let some of the “ink” speak for itself.

Hoof Prints on my Heart

By Mitzy Tait-Zeller: XLibris. 2012; 386 pages, hard cover ISBN 978-1-4691-8985-7, soft cover ISBN: 978-1-46918984-0 and ebook ISBN: 9781-4691-8986-4 Mitzy Tait-Zeller is a breeder of Canadian horses living in Saskatchewan (and also a Horse Country reader). The hoofprints she carries on and in her heart are the memories of a horse-crazy little girl growing up in rural Canada. She starts at 2 years-old, when she always had to have horse toys for birthdays and Christmas and follows through to the age of 10 when an aunt gave Mitzy’s family a horse - as long as they paid the gas to go pick him up from Northern Alberta, ten hours drive from home. The sum of $645.33 was winkled out of piggy banks and Toby came home in the back of pickup. That story is typical of Mitzy’s life with horses, some parts good, some parts not so good. She has a natural story-telling gift and the humor, heartbreak and obstacles of her life shine through.

It’s Horse Country’s 25th birthday this year.

Celebrate with us just by renewing your subscription, or becoming a new subscriber. Horse Country will say, “Happy Birthday” to someone every six weeks. If we pull your Account Number* from our draw, we will DOUBLE your latest subscription term. For instance, if you renew or sign up for one year: we will double that to TWO years. You renew or sign up for three years: we will add ANOTHER three years to your subscription term. Happy Birthday from Horse Country.

*Your Account number is found on your mailing label here: 25879 EXPIRES 6-13 John Horsekeeper PO Box 2915 Barntown, MB R9Z 4X9

You can subcribe or renew online at www.horsecountry.ca/subscribe Enter your Account Number and your mailing information will fill in automatically. Or call (toll-free) 1-866-886-2425 for immediate attention.

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1 GO online at www.horsecountry.ca/subscribe; 2 CALL 1-866-886-2425; 3 FILL in the form and mail to the address shown below.

Name:

Phone:

Address:

City:

Province:

Email:

Postal Code:

SAVE UP TO 70% OFF THE SINGLE COPY PRICE PRINT:  One year $29.90*  Two years $54.30*  Three years $73.70* DIGITAL:  One year $15.50*  Two years $26.00* *All taxes included. Single copy price $5.25 + taxes. PRINT ONLY: US delivery addresses add $20 per year.

Card #

Signature

Name on the card

Expiry

 Visa  Mastercard  Cheque

 Credit card only: I don’t want

to miss an issue, so I authorise Automatic Renewal on my credit card. Future subscriptions will always renew at $2 per year below the price current at the time of renewal. I will receive a receipt for my renewal, and may cancel the renewal instruction at any time.

Mail to Horse Country, Suite 203, 23-845 Dakota Street, Winnipeg, MB, R2M 5M3.

issue 6-2013 | www.horsecountry.ca

YES! START MY HORSE COUNTRY SUBSCRIPTION NOW!

issue 6-2013 | www.horsecountry.ca