Equine Journal August 2019

AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION: FORMULATING A FIRE ESCAPE PLAN August 2019

Your All-Breed, All-Discipline Resource

SUMMER DRESSES pg. 48

Summer Fun in Vermont

VOLUME 32, NUMBER 03 | $4.00 | EQUINEJOURNAL.COM

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44TH Anniversary New England Equitation Championships

photo by: Anne Gittins Photography

2018 Junior Medal Winner

October 16–20, 2019 Eastern States Coliseum, West Springfield, MA

JOE M EDICO GR A N T

To commemorate Joe Medico’s dedication to the NE horse world, JR Hudson Horse Transportation is sponsoring two grants of $1250 each. These grants will go to qualified NE Junior Medal riders who demonstrate a financial need in order to participate in the NEHC Championships.

N E HC N E W RU LE

As of 12/1/18 NEHC has a new rule to split and combine entries: If entries warrant minimum 16, management must split class into two sections. For every eight entries after 16 entries, management must continue to split into additional sections. i.e. 24 entries would split into 3 sections, 32 entries into 4 sections and so on. California split may be used. If there is not a minimum of riders of either or both, the junior or adult medal qualifying class, the show can combine to meet the rider requirement. Riders will show at their respective heights. Junior riders will still need a win to qualify. Point system for adult riders will remain the same.

Please check our website, www.newenglandequitation.com about clinic grant money, scholarships, and more!

For Complete Class List, Entry Blank, Information on Juniors in Their Last Year and More!

www.newenglandequitation.com

Contact: Amy Eidson – 401.741.0211 or Cookie DeSimone – 617.347.6413 134942-XX-14.indd 1 EQJMG_190800_0C2-007.indd 2

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Little River Friesians

Sybrich v. Stal Staf Karima 2005 1e premie Model Mare Jasper 366 Pref. x Tamme 276

Trude van de Kleine Koppel 2006 1e premie Model Mare Beart 411 Pref. x Pike 316

Trudi 2006 1e premie Model Mare Wikke 404 x Lolke 371

Truus van het Houkumhuis 2006 1e premie Model Mare Tsjalke 397 x Olof 315

We have chosen our broodmares based on exceptional conformation, pedigree, and temperament to assure we put the very best horses on the ground. Little River’s breeding program is highly selective with the goal of producing nothing less than the highest quality. Every year, a select few of our precious horses will be offered for sale to discriminating buyers. We want to help YOU find your dream Friesian at Little River Friesians!

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Valiant LRF has already shown in saddleseat and driving. She is currently being trained in dressage and also loves trail riding. She is out of our model mare Trudi and would also make e an excellent addition to any breeding program.

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contents August 2019

30 Girl on Fire

A Q&A with 2018 Young Rider Champion Anna Weniger.

features 34 Fighting Fire Does your barn have a fire emergency plan? Take a look at how to form one.

BY KATHLEEN LABONVILLE

Find horse-themed dresses in this month’s Fashion column on page 48.

38 Learning Curve Trainer Ben Roberson discusses techniques for helping non-pros and amateurs make the best of their cutting runs.

BY BRIDGET KIRKWOOD

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PHOTO: TERISÉ COLE

BY JANE CARLTON

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»

online

equinejournal.com

contents

August 2019

departments 14 Editor’s Note 16 The In-Gate 18 Best of August 21 Points of Interest 24 Fun Facts 26 Prepurchase Exam 28 Instructor’s Notebook

61

AUGUST CONTEST

Check out this month’s contest at equinejournal.com.

Learn more at equinejournal.com

lifestyle 45 Travel 48 Fashion 50 Collecting Thoughts

the scoop

Multimedia

Watch videos, search back issues, and find associations.

Calendar

Find a comprehensive list of equine events.

Travel

Find destinations fit for the equestrian.

New Products

Be the first to know what is new on the market.

53 Industry Wide News 56 Industry Wide Affiliates 58 Foxhunting 60 Hunter/Jumper 63 Eventing 66 Dressage 68 Driving 70 Western 73 Breed Affiliates

tail end 74 Real Estate 76 Directories 78 Classifieds 79 Event Listings 80 Last Glance

social media:

67

61 Laura Chapot impressively rode

Chandon Blue to take first in the $50,000 Purina Animal Nutrition FEI CSI2* Grand Prix.

67 The Adequan U.S. Para Dressage

Team earned silver at the Caledon Spring Jubilee CPEDI3*.

on the cover page 34

page 48 pages 30

page 45

follow us @

facebook.com/equinej instagram: @equinejournal twitter: @equinejournal

2018 United States Dressage Federation North American Young Rider Dressage Freestyle Championship winner Anna Weniger aboard Don Derrick.

COVER PHOTO BY TERISÉ COLE

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EQUINE JOURNAL

PHOTOS: (ABOVE) ESI PHOTOGRAPHY; (BELOW) KARIE ALDERMAN/KARIE ELIZEBETH PHOTOGRAPHY

plus:

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enter to win this month’s contest

Visit www.equinejournal.com for three chances to win!

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Our extensive portfolio of horse care products includes Absorbine® Veterinary Liniment for equine muscle and joint pain relief, UltraShield® fly control products, Hooflex® hoof care products, and ShowSheen® horse grooming products. When you’re looking for exceptional horse care products, look for the yellow ribbon.

August 2019

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CheshireHorse.com English & Western Tack Apparel & Footwear Show Clothing Horse Clothing Gifts, Books, DVDs Feed & Supplements Pet Food & Supplies Stable Supplies Fencing Trailers

Incorporating

Noble Equestrian Ashley Performance Shirt

EXECUTIVE EDITOR/GENERAL MANAGER

Elisabeth Prouty-Gilbride ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Kelley Roche ART DIRECTOR

Candice D. Madrid SENIOR ADVERTISING/MARKETING CONSULTANT

Karen Desroches, 603-525-3601 ADVERTISING/MARKETING CONSULTANT

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Equine Journal P.O. Box 386, Oxford, MA 01540 phone: 508-987-5886 subscription questions: 1-800-414-9101 affiliate subscription questions: 1-800-742-9171 international callers: 1-386-246-0102 equinejournal@emailcustomerservice.com www.equinejournal.com A Publication of MCC Magazines, LLC A Division of Morris Communications Company, LLC 643 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901

PRESIDENT Donna Kessler REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Patty Tiberg CONTROLLER Scott Ferguson CIRCULATION BUSINESS MANAGER Michelle Rowe DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING Donald Horton

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PRESIDENT & CEO

© 2019 by MCC Magazines, LLC. All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A. | VOLUME 32, NO. 3

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| August 2019

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Beat the Heat Horse won’t drink?

There is an easier way!

Get Horse Quencher®; pour, fill, watch them drink.

Hydration is important, it can prevent colic & improve performance.

Horses find many reasons to not drink enough; traveling, competition, cold snaps, hot spells, illness, injury, new neighbors - even exercise.

Because horses lose salt and water equally as they sweat, their thirst reflex is not triggered. These are many of the reasons vets & owners are now using & recommending Horse Quencher®, the all natural FEI acceptable water additive that gets your horse to drink water, wherever, whenever. distributed exclusively by;

Intrepid Intrepid International International Call; 800•347•0033 for your local dealer.

Go to; www.intrepidintl.com for more product info.

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EQUINE JOURNAL

With warm days and cool nights, you can’t blame anyone for wanting to enjoy a seasonal campfire. I can speak for all the equestrians out there when I say that when it comes to fires and the barn, fun times do not come to mind. Stay a step ahead with tips for the best fire escape plans on page 34.

The heat of competition can be strong as the season hits its peak, and nobody can attest to that better than 2018 Young Rider Champion Anna Weniger. Since winning in 2018, this girl has been on fire in the dressage ring. Check out Jane Carlton’s conversation with the talented equestrian’s past, present, and future on page 30.

Tired of taking heat from your trainer for not moving with the cow? This month, Bridget Kirkwood caught up with Ben Robinson on how he teaches his amateurs and non-pros to make the best of their cutting runs.

We hope you enjoy the summer heat of August!

Associate Editor

Be a Part of the Equine Journal » In this month’s fashion column, we featured equestrian-themed dresses.

Have a favorite product that we missed? Share it with us by emailing us at editorial@equinejournal.com. » If you have a great photo of your horse you would like to see as our Photo of the Month, email it to editorial@equinejournal.com. » Do you have a training question? Send your questions to editorial@equinejournal.com, and we will have a leading trainer provide you with answers.

| August 2019

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THE IN-GATE

FEATURED LETTER

IS THIS YOUR LETTER? DROP US A LINE AT EDITORIAL@EQUINEJOURNAL.COM AND WE’LL SEND YOU SOME EQUINE JOURNAL SWAG!

I really enjoyed Equine Journal’s three-part training series on jump-offs (in the April-June 2019 issues.) The step-by-step training is great to reflect back to and apply personally and teach through my lessons. Kids’ don’t always get the point of the course walk or watching each other for tips—this column helps them think that way. Keep up the training columns!

- Nikki Brown

#EQUINEJOURNAL 16

EQUINE JOURNAL

Send your submissions to: editorial@equinejournal.com, or to Equine Journal, Editorial, P.O. Box 386 Oxford, MA 01540.

| August 2019

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august 2019 BEST OF

July 30th-August 4th North American Youth Championships After the eventing riders competed in July, watch the top child, junior, and young rider jumper and dressage equestrians from North America take to the ring.

7/30 8/4 th th 6 11 6th-11th United States Equestrian Federation Pony Finals Head to the Kentucky Horse Park for the popular event, there will be flocks of equines under 14.2 and their tiny riders.

15th Relaxation Day Give your horse and yourself a day off—how about a nice graze in the shade instead?

22nd-25th Great Meadow International With new levels and a fourth day added to the schedule, the 2019 Great Meadow International in Virginia is a whole new eventing experience.

27th-September 1st American Eventing Championships Hosted by the United States Eventing Association, all levels of competitors from around the country will gather in Kentucky to compete.

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PHOTOS: (ABOVE) TERISÉ COLE; (BELOW) SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

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POINTS OF INTEREST p. 21 | FUN FACTS p. 24 PREPURCHASE EXAM p. 26 | INSTRUCTOR’S NOTEBOOK p. 28

bits & pieces

August 2019

Photo of the Month

PHOTO: TERISÉ COLE

That smile when you’re focused, confident, and having a great time in the ring.

August 2019

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bits & pieces POINTS OF INTEREST

MEDIA REVIEW

SALT AND SWEAT

[ BOOK ]

Cowboy Dressage founder Eitan BethHalachmy and trainer Dr. Jenny L. Grimmett go into detail on this up-and-coming riding discipline that combines classical dressage and western horsemanship. This book shares methods of developing successful western dressage horses.

From the basics and groundwork to lateral maneuvers and the consistency of gaits under saddle, this book has step-by-step exercises to accommodate you each step of the way, while adding an inspirational tone and a hopeful outlook after each chapter.

BOTTOM LINE: If you’re looking to get involved in Cowboy Dressage, this is your how-to guide.

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The importance of daily electrolyte supplementation for high-performance horses is well known, as regular sweating leads to electrolyte loss. However, idle horses that are exposed to heat and humidity will sometimes sweat excessively, especially when pastured horses are not afforded shade. For these horses, electrolyte supplementation would be appropriate on days when they sweat heavily.

For some owners, recommendations become muddied as exercise schedules include days of little to no sweating intermixed with days of heavy sweating. “A daily electrolyte is probably the best solution for these horses, because all day-to-day worries about appropriate supplementation are relieved. Well-formulated electrolyte supplements are, of course, meant to be used daily, so there’s absolutely no harm in this,” explains Kathleen Crandell, Ph.D., an equine nutritionist with Kentucky Equine Research.

POLL

FIREWATCH WE ASKED: DOES YOUR BARN HAVE A FIRE EMERGENCY PLAN?

80%: Yes, but never

80% 20%

had to use it.

20%: We don’t have

one at my barn.

0%: Yes and have

had to use it.

Want to be included in our polls? Visit us on Facebook by scanning the QR Code with your smartphone.

PHOTO: TERISÉ COLE

DRESSAGE THE COWBOY WAY

By Eitan Beth-Halachmy and Jenni L. Grimmett, DVM, 240 pages, paperback, Trafalgar Square Books; 2018, $29.95

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POINTS OF INTEREST bits & pieces

Cutting Findings

14-21 Junior and Young Riders, ages 14-21, from throughout North American and neighboring countries vie for the FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC) for Dressage.

65

Riders must participate in at least three NAYC/United States Equestrian Federation Qualifying Competitions to be eligible for an invitation to the Championships.

3

In addition to these tests, athlete/horse combinations will be required to earn at least one score of 65% in the respective FEI Junior Freestyle test and FEI Young Rider Freestyle test.

PHOTO: TERISÉ COLE

In a study conducted by the a team of veterinarians, 19 cutting horses diagnosed at Equine Sport Medicne and Surgery in Weatherford, TX, with superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendonitis in the forelimb via ultrasound examinations were evaluated.

All horses were Quarter Horses ranging in age from three to six years old.

Affected horses received a variety of treatment methods including surgery, tendon-splitting procedures, shock wave therapy, receiving platelet-rich plasma, a combination of these, and rest alone.

After treatment, researchers found that 16 (82%) of the horses returned to their previous activity level, one horse had chronic lameness associated with the SDF tendonitis, tendonitis recurred in three horses (18%), and one horse developed an SDF tendon lesion in the opposite forelimb.

NOW YOU KNOW

August 2019

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bits & pieces FUN FACTS Fun Facts about the Silver Oak Jumper Tournament

Silver Oak Jumper Tournament

BY TERISÉ COLE

» THE SILVER OAK JUMPER Tournament debuted in August of 2013, so the 2019 event will mark its seventh year.

ton Falls, NH, the event now takes place about two hours south at Fieldstone Show Park in Halifax, MA.

» The Tournament is one of few jumper-only United States Equestrian Federation shows, meaning there are no hunter or equitation classes held. » As of 2016, the Tournament has been classified as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The event supports Sources: Silver Oak Jumper Tournament - silveroakjumpertournament.com 24

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Danny & Ron’s Rescue, an organization that rescues and rehabilitates dogs, and Omega Horse Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, which is committed to providing humane treatment for all equines.

» Winners of the Tournament’s highlight class, the $75,000 Grand Prix held on Sunday afternoon, include Paul O’Shea, Kevin Babington, Callie Smith, Devin Ryan, and Peter Wylde.

PHOTO: TERISÉ COLE

» Originally held at Silver Oak Equestrian Center in Hamp-

| August 2019

7/8/19 7:27 PM

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August 2019

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7/12/19 10:08 AM

bits & pieces PREPURCHASE EXAM

ERN WESTA WE R

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1. TOTAL SADDLE FIT

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Some horses can benefit from shoulder relief from their girths, and the Total Saddle Fit Cinch provides just that with customizable options of different colors and covers to choose from. Our tester liked how secure the saddle felt and noticed her mare’s front end felt freer in spins.

She also appreciated that the fleece liner is removable for washing—a must during the sweaty spring, summer, and autumn seasons.

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2. SMARTPAK BROWBAND HEADSTALL QUICK CLIP

No more fumbling with buckles or ties—our tester’s favorite features of this headstall were the clips that made changing bits an easy task, making it a must-have for a trainer with a variety of horses. Vegetable-tanned leather that feels sturdy and nickel hardware make this headstall ready to be put to the test with your greenies or put to use on a seasoned citizen.

Though not flashy enough to head into the show ring, this simple bridle is wallet-friendly and perfect for training at home.

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With a copper crackle background and holographic overlay—you will definitely stand out in the arena. Our tester noted the leather was easily pliable, although the brow band was a tad rigid. The headstall ties and while stiff at

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first, it made for easy bit changes. Overall, this product was very adjustable for most horses.

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The Alamo Saddlery breast collar has an added flair sure to make other barrel racers jealous— fringe! As an added bonus, our tester found the leather, though new, to be supple and easy to use. The breast collar was a tad large for her mare, but she was able to make it work due to the many adjustable straps.

BUY IT: alamosaddlery.com; $156.00 Non-profit organizations can contact editorial@equinejournal.com to request an item from EJ’s Tack Trunk.

Our testers: This month, our Prepurchase Exam was conducted by: Kristin Pitzer, Freelancer; and Terisé Cole, Freelancer.

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Do you have a product to suggest?

Contact editorial@equinejournal.com with your ideas.

| August 2019

7/9/19 5:23 PM

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August 2019

| EQUINEJOURNAL.COM 27 6/6/19 1:30 PM 7/12/19 10:08 AM

bits & pieces INSTRUCTOR’S NOTEBOOK Second in a three-part training series

Building a Better Trail Horse Part II: Essential Leading Fundamentals

By Christina Keim At first, leading from the right can feel awkward. Make a habit of leading from the right until the mechanics feel automatic.

THERE ARE MANY REASONS WHY A TRAIL rider may opt to dismount, and when they do it is essential that the horse is flexible regarding how they will be led. In this month’s installment, we will look at how to prepare your trail horse for this eventuality before flexible leading becomes critical for safety.

LEADING FROM EITHER SIDE The best place to start is to ensure that your horse is proficient in leading from either their left or right sides. This skill is essential if you need to dismount in an area with a hazard, such as a steep drop, on one side of the trail, or if you need to lead across the slope of a hill.

“You can literally be stuck between a rock and a hard place,” says Michelle Grald, an experienced endurance and competitive trail rider and Certified Horsemanship Association Intermediate Level II Instructor based in Weathersfield, VT. “You always want to lead on the uphill side of the horse, even if you are bushwhacking. If your horse slips you don’t want to be on the downhill side.”

At first, leading from the right can feel awkward. Make a habit of leading from the right until the mechanics feel automatic. Grald prefers horses to be positioned with their nose at 28

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her shoulder. “I don’t lead with my shoulder at their shoulder,” states Grald. “If they start to get ahead of me, I flip up the bight of the rein, enough to make them take a step back. I do this on the left and right.”

It is smart to practice mounting from the right side as well. “It is totally intimidating for your mind to wrap around the idea at first,” says Grald. “But once you have done it a few times it is pretty easy. Your horse needs to get used to it too.”

LEADING FROM THE FRONT If you need to dismount while bushwhacking in dense thicket or trees or along a narrow single track trail, it can be necessary to lead your horse from their front, also known as leading online. “The horse needs to understand to follow closely but not right behind you,” shares Grald.

When it comes to training this, start in a familiar environment, by holding a short crop or dressage whip in one hand and put the lead in the other hand, which is positioned in the small of your back. Step in front of your horse and lead forward. If your horse gets too close, swing the hand with the crop toward the lead rope behind your back, effectively

TAILING FROM THE BACK Tailing is a technique more commonly used on western trails, where the terrain presents unique challenges. “Tailing is used when the horse needs to have all of its faculties to get up something steep, rocky, or really narrow,” explains Grald. “When a horse is trying to get up something tough, they may want or need to scramble or jump to go forward. You don’t want to be in their way and you don’t want to be on their back. The safest position is on the ground behind them.”

When tailing, the handler is holding onto the horse via a long rope or lead and the horse’s tail. They stand directly behind the animal while the horse goes forward. The lead’s function is to give the handler control once they reach the top, not to direct the horse.

“First, teach your horse that it is okay for you to hang onto their tail at a standstill,” shares Grald. “Next bring the rope up and over their back crossways or just hold it off to the side, and while hanging onto their tail, practice walking around your yard or pasture.” As you gain confidence, try tailing your horse up small slopes, increasing the steepness over time. “The hardest part can be keeping up with them,” Grald states.

“While an eastern trail horse can probably get away without knowing how to tail, it can give a horse a chance to take a break on a really long uphill climb.”

PHOTO: DUSTIN PERIN PHOTOGRAPHY

blocking the horse from getting within an arm’s distance of you.

The position of your lead rope hand behind the back becomes a cue to the horse that they are to stay directly behind you. Once the horse has the basic idea, play with them by leading “normally,” then move your hand behind your back and try turning and walking away at a 90-degree angle. “Usually, they try to come around your right side because that is where they are used to being,” Grald states.

“Swing the crop around to indicate that they are to come behind you.” Once you have mastered this at home, play with online leading on the trail before its use becomes essential.

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7/8/19 7:29 PM

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June 2019

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7/12/19 7/9/19 10:14 2:35 PM AM

GIRL ON FIRE

PHOTO: TERISÉ COLE

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7/9/19 3:46 PM

ANNA WENIGER HAS WORKED HER WAY TO THE TOP OF THE YOUNG RIDER DRESSAGE RANKS

By Jane Carlton who gets to compete which of our horses!

EJ: Can you tell me more about Don Derrick, your NAYC Gold Medal partner? What is he like to ride?

AW: My mom trained and competed Don Derrick from two years old up through Grand Prix, and I began riding him three years ago. I started out just riding him a few afternoons a week, and slowly earned the right to take over most of the riding on him about a year ago. He is a super honest, finely trained horse to ride, but he is a little on the quiet side, so I have had to learn to refine my aids and get the most effort out of Derrick from the least amount of effort from me. He’s also a bit of a grouch in the barn—he’s very particular about which horses and people are his friends, and he’s very food-motivated. He’ll eat just about anything, and loves gummy bears!

When Anna Weniger stepped into the arena at the 2018 North American Youth Championships (NAYC) on Don Derrick, she didn’t think she could beat the top score of 72%. It certainly hadn’t crossed her mind that she could pull off a win. But that’s exactly what the duo did, claiming the NAYC Dressage Young Rider Freestyle Gold Medal on a score of 74.225%.

We took a minute to talk to Anna—who works at her family’s Firstview Farm in Apex, NC—and learn about her lifelong passion for dressage, how she balances riding and attending college, and what’s in store for the future.

EQUINE JOURNAL: When did you start riding? Have you always ridden dressage?

ANNA WENIGER: My parents have had horses my entire life, so they put me on the back of a horse for the first time when I was two, and I never stopped! I rode my first dressage test when I was nine, and I was hooked, so I have never really tried another discipline. In my early teens, I started dreaming of being one of those cool young riders who competed at NAYC, but I definitely did not expect to make it as far as I have. My dream was just to make it to NAYC once—winning was not in the plan!

PHOTO: TERISÉ COLE

EJ: Your mother and father are also big time riders.What was it like growing up surrounded by equestrians?

AW: Growing up surrounded by equestrians was my normal, so I don’t think I realized how lucky I was as a child. My parents have never forced me into riding—as a matter of fact, they encouraged me to try a bunch of other sports and activities, to no avail. Since we all share the same passion for horses, they support me if I decide, for instance, that school has to take the backseat for a semester so I can compete in Florida, and I know not everyone is so lucky.

My mother is my trainer, which has been challenging at times, but she is an exceptional teacher and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Nowadays, our farm has grown into a true family business, and I have the opportunity to help out with horses in training and even take on client horses of my own when school is quiet. The only difficulty is that we tend to fight over

EJ: Are there any other horses that have been influential in your riding career?

AW: There are quite a few! The first was Indecent Proposal, a Connemara/Thoroughbred mare my mom also trained from a young horse through FEI. She was my schoolmaster, and earned me my United States Dressage Federation (USDF) Bronze and Silver Medals when I was 14. She is a super hot and sensitive horse and tricky to take to shows, so she taught me a lot about riding quietly and keeping my cool under pressure.

She is 26 now and teaches lessons at our farm, and I get to ride her on occasion, which is still a treat!

After that was Big Bear’s Royal Finnegan, a full-bred Connemara pony we bought from a hunter barn. He had done dressage earlier in his life, so my first real training opportunity was trying to uncover and build upon his previous training. I took him from Training Level through Prix St. Georges, but at 15 hands he got a bit small for me. We sold him to another young professional in Virginia, who got her Silver Medal on him, and I still see him at shows.

Then, there was Izeffia, the mare we bought with the intention that she would be my Young Riders horse. She was green for her age when we bought her, so I had the experience of teaching her the Third and Fourth Level movements. In 2015, we qualified for the NAYC Region 1 Junior team and placed third at the Festival of Champions in FEI Juniors, which jumpstarted my high performance career. I will always be grateful for that opportunity.

EJ: What is it like balancing a serious dressage career with being a college student?

AW: Both my college friends and my horse friends tell me that I am absolutely crazy! On a day-to-day basis, I am usually in class half the day and at the barn half the day, and I do homework in the evenings and stay up as late as I have to. It is all a matter of prioritizing. Sometimes a class trip means I have to miss a qualifying show; sometimes a midterm means that my parents drive the horses to the show early and I drive myself in the evening once my exam is over and I don’t get to ride on August 2019

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7/9/19 3:46 PM

Weniger is currently focusing on Don Derrick through the Under 25 Grand Prix Level.

EJ: What are your plans for the future?

AW: Derrick and I have been competing in the Under 25 Grand Prix EJ: What would you say the highlight of your dressage career has this year, which in truth has been a more difficult step up than I been to date? expected. There is so much going on and no time to breathe in those AW: It’s a toss up between winning Young Rider Freestyle Gold at the tests. It feels like a whole new discipline compared to Young Riders. So 2018 NAYC and qualifying for the 2018 U.S. Dressage European Young right now, my goal is to become more confident at competing Grand Rider Tour. Getting the chance to represent your country overseas is Prix, and to slowly improve the quality of the work day by day. something really special, and I didn’t realize just how special it was In the near future, I would love to begin the process of trainuntil I was there. At the Future Champions show in Hagen, Germany, ing a young horse up the levels, and in the long term, my goal is Ben Ebeling, Callie Jones, and I were the only American competitors to compete in the international Grand Prix ring and eventually in a crowd of about 800. It made me proud to be representing not represent the U.S. as part of the senior team. However, I am also just my country, but the incredible dressage pipeline the U.S. has entering my last year of college, so I am facing tough decisions as developed over the past few years, which gave the three of us the I contemplate how to fit riding and training around going to grad chance to be competitive against our European peers. In addition, my school or starting a career in geology. Whatever happens, I can’t riding developed tremendously while I was in Europe, in part because live without horses! competing against the top European riders was pretty motivating. The young riders who are out there winning are riding their tests with a lot of power and expression, but they’re also In addition to winning the 2018 very accurate, and I had to learn how to work towards North American Youth Championboth of those goals. ships Young Rider Freestyle Gold All of that work in Europe paid off in my freestyle at Medal, Don Derrick and Weniger competed in Aachen, Germany, on NAYC, which was surreal. I was third from last to go, and the 2018 US Dressage European I knew when I went in that several people had already Young Rider Tour. earned 72%s. I honestly did not think I could beat that, but I was determined to give it everything I had. Derrick was absolutely perfect and we pulled off our choreography at its maximum possible difficulty, with pirouettes on centerline, three-tempis directly into four-tempis around a circle, and another line of three-tempis on the final centerline. I knew the test was good, but when I saw my score, I freaked out—I’m pretty sure my jaw dropped and I stayed like that for several minutes! I was in so much shock that I didn’t cry until a week later, but now I still get emotional every time I think about it.

PHOTOS: (ABOVE) HIGH TIME PHOTOGRAPHY; (BELOW) GERI MESSINGER

the grounds. Sometimes an important show means I don’t have time to study for an exam. I certainly do not have the normal college student experience, but I still take advantage of the opportunities I can.

had a great season in 2015 in FEI Juniors, and started off 2016 well with scores in the 70s at Fourth Level. However, she sustained a neck injury, which we spent months and then years trying to rehab. She got much better, but it became clear that she was not going to be able to perform upperlevel dressage anymore. Last year, we sold her to a hunter/jumper rider who is having a great time with her. It was a heartbreaking experience for me because Izzy was an exceptionally talented dressage horse and I had every intention of taking her to Grand Prix. But injuries are part of life with horses, and I’m very lucky that my parents have kept me in the saddle by letting me ride their horses.

EJ: Have you had any major setbacks in your riding career?

AW: The toughest hurdle for me so far has been with Izeffia. We bought her as a nine-year-old in 2014, and we 32

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7/9/19 3:47 PM

Congratulations!

Jennifer Platt, VMD of Mobile Equine Veterinarian on Diago

Photo by ‘Andrew Ryback

Winner of the GGT-Footing low children’s adult Jumper division sponsored by GGT-Footing at the Ox Ridge Riding and Racquet Club in Darien Connecticut A special thank you to Bill Lowry of Winsor Farm Sales and Arenas for the lovely GGT Footing recipe.

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To discuss your arena footing needs call Cynthia Keating for Arena Building and Consultations at 864-804-0011

7/12/19 6/28/19 10:14 1:38 PM AM

By Kathleen Labonville | Photography by Dusty Perin

e r i F g n i t h g i F When a barn fire strikes, you have only minutes to get horses out safely. Do you have a plan in place?

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7/9/19 3:56 PM

You sip your morning coffee and see the news headline: a fire destroyed a barn, horses unable to be rescued.

“That’s awful,” you mutter to yourself with an undercurrent of panic. “What if this happened at my barn?” you wonder, and make a mental note to draw up an evacuation plan. But your day gets busy and you forget and time marches on. Fire waits for nobody, though, so make today the day that you create a lifesaving plan for your loved ones, equine and human alike. Below are some pointers on how to get everybody out when time is of the essence.

Plan and Practice The worst thing to do in any emergency is panic and stare in shock. Instead, you want to have a well-practiced plan of action to take if disaster strikes so you can go through the motions with hardly a thought. You need to be ready to simply react in the most useful way possible, so have a plan and practice it often enough that it becomes second nature.

A good fire evacuation plan is one that is kept simple. Step one; get all people out of the barn. As much as we love our horses, it’s wise to put human lives and safety first. Fires move quickly and unpredictably. Step two; evacuate horses if you can safely do so. Of course, evacuating horses in the event of a fire is not easy.

“While having stall doors that open directly to the outside is ideal, it may not always be practical for many boarding stables and the like,” explains Robert Solomon, PE, Director of Built Environment Codes/Fire Protection Systems at the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) in Quincy, MA. “Moving the animal away from the barn and into a space where they can’t return is also a good idea. Not only is this generally safer for the animal, it also keeps them out of the way of first responders.

“Ideally you hope that the animal will go outside on its own. That isn’t always the case,” Robert continues. “My experience when I was a volunteer firefighter in Pennsylvania is that barn animals see the barn as the ‘safe’ or ‘shelter’ space and don’t want to leave. Even when they get out, they may tend to try and return for that same reason. Because of this, it is good to have a plan to lead them out. But that has to be balanced against the risks that the handler has while having to enter the space—perhaps multiple times.”

Scott Lombard, Certified Insurance Counselor, Agricultural and Farm Insurance Specialist, and president at Corinthian

FIRE PREVENTION When it comes to something as deadly as fire, the old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” rings very true. Preventing fires is far easier than battling them. The following are practices to help prevent the likelihood of fire in your barn.

• Dust the barn and its surrounding area free of dust, cobwebs, leaves, and dry material.

This debris ignites easily and quickly.

• Keep walkways clear and wide. Wheelbarrows, shovels, forks, brooms, and rakes should be kept neatly in a separate area, not in the barn aisle.

• Test fire extinguishers and have them easily accessible. Use large extinguishers and have an annual workshop for staff and/or boarders on how to use them.

• Install lit signs at exits. These could be lifesaving in the event of a fire at night.

• Install a lightning rod.

• Keep a phone in an easy-to-access spot for quick calling for help. Barn fires move very, very fast.

• Post “no smoking” signs on your property and enforce the rule.

• Keep hay in a separate building if possible, or at least ensure adequate ventilation to avoid combustion, especially with newlybaled hay. Check the temperature in the loft often when newly-baled hay is put up.

• Keep tractors, leaf blowers, weed whackers, and other machinery/tools in another building to avoid gas-fueled fires.

• Ensure your driveway and barn access are wide and clear so that fire trucks and emergency vehicles can easily navigate to the barn at any time. This includes keeping vehicles parked well out of the way.

• Install smoke detectors and check them regularly. If false alarms are a concern, you could instead use heat and flame detectors.

• Install an automatic sprinkler/fire suppression system. As Scott explains, “The best defense for barn fires is a ‘dry sprinkler’ system (safe for areas with freezing temperatures) and/or a dispatched fire alarm system that automatically dispatches fire/ police in the event of a fire, otherwise by the time it is reported it is often too late.”

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| EQUINEJOURNAL.COM 35

7/9/19 3:56 PM

Insurance in Medway, MA, shares his company’s knowledge from insuring horses and farms for over 30 years.

“Horse(s) in [a barn fire] need to be led out and not just released, as many will not leave if panicked. You need to figure out where you are going to put the horses once removed, other than letting them run loose, which may be the only alternative in some cases.”

Good containment areas include a secure paddock or an indoor or outdoor arena. Horses are afraid of fire and smoke and may not want to leave their stalls, so be prepared for this and know you may need to blindfold the horse or use extra encouragement. Plan for how to best handle paddock gates in a hurry, too.

Scott emphasizes the need for planning this all out before an emergency strikes. He explains, “The problem is, once a fire starts in a barn, usually at night when no one is awake or around, it is often too late to remove the horses. Unfortunately, it is the smoke in a fire that most often proves lethal to livestock, not the fire itself. If you do have time to evacuate, figure out where to put them before you are in a crisis, so everyone knows the plan.”

Once you have an evacuation plan in place, hold a drill every year or so. Scott explains, “You need to invite your fire department to familiarize themselves with your barn/facility and your evacuation plans in the event of a fire or collapse crisis.” This is a simple step that many overlook, but it can literally be lifesaving.

“Our recently updated code, NFPA 150, Fire and Life Safety in Animal Housing Facilities Code, available at nfpa.org, requires animal handlers, designated employees, and supervisory personnel to be trained and to hold disaster/emergency drills once a year for horse facilities,” Robert explains. “While that provision has utility to some of the larger or commercial horse farms, there is no reason that smaller and privately-owned stables can’t make a plan and practice it as well.”

The Aftermath Part of your barn fire emergency plans should include what do in the aftermath of a devastating fire. “If your barn burns down and horses survive, you may have to move them to another location, so make plans with neighboring barns. It has been my experience that most neighboring barns are more than willing to help in a crisis,” Scott explains. Alternatively, if you have pastures with run-in sheds, that may be sufficient to house the horses until you can rebuild, depending on the season and your area’s climate.

You’ll need to call your insurance agent right away and have them come out to survey the damage. Do this before you begin any cleanup. Always ensure your insurance coverage is complete and up-to-date. Without it, you could lose everything. “Most agents do not review coverages with clients unless the client reaches out to them. At our agency, we touch base with our clients every year at renewal and review accounts in detail every three to five years, depending on the size of the account,” Scott notes.

As in many cases, the best defense against barn fires is a good offense. Plan for the worst, but set your farm up for the best by utilizing good fire prevention strategies.

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Be sure all fire extinguishers are up to date and that the boarders and workers know how to use them.

Practicing a fire escape plan can help leave you feeling prepared in case emergency strikes.

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7/9/19 3:57 PM

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7/12/19 10:15 AM

ROBERSON’S RULES

Trainer Ben Roberson discusses techniques for helping non-pros and amateurs make the best of their cutting runs.

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The basic concept of cutting—stop the cow—is simple, but learning that concept can be difficult. Trainer Ben Roberson, of Mineral Wells, TX, has impressed upon his non-pros and amateurs the importance of getting the cow stopped. To do that, a beginner must learn how to move with the cow and be a mirror image of it. That foundation has helped many riders achieve their dreams of being competitive in the show pen, including winning National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) World titles.

“Whether you’re going from wall to wall of the cutting pen or working in the middle, each turn is initiated by stopping the cow. But stopping the cow is a hard concept for many amateurs to understand, because they rely on the turnback help to stop the cow for them,” Ben explains. “It is important for people to remember that their help are called ‘turnback men’ not ‘stop men.’”

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Article and Photos by Bridget Kirkwood

BODY POSITION When Ben first works with a new cutter, his initial focus is on their position in the saddle so they are prepared for the stop. “When the horse is going across the pen, a lot of times the people will know that the cow is going to turn, so instead of riding the horse to the stop, they’re getting ready for the next turn,” Ben says. Anticipating the turn is often a result of the rider not trusting in a horse’s training. “The hardest thing for new people to understand is that trainers work really hard for years to train that horse to know what its job is—to stop, to draw back, and to turn,” Ben says. “The rider’s job is to help them stop better, to draw back better, and to turn easier.”

To help the horse stop more efficiently, the rider should be relaxed in the saddle with their hips rolled underneath them. Being stiff causes the rider’s body to become rigid, which could throw the horse off balance and cause the rider to grab the horse with their feet. Ben likes his students’ feet to be down by the horse’s side. If the feet are

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pushed out away from the horse, when the rider needs to kick, the distance between their feet and the horse will cause their timing to be off.

“The rider’s feet need to be where they can use their feet easily without being in the horse,” shares Ben. “If you want your horse to stop on its rear-end, then you have to be on your rear-end in the saddle. We as riders are an addition to the horse. The horse can feel everything that you do up on top of it. If you’re up there leaning around or standing up in the saddle, then the horse will feel it. If you fall forward, then the horse will fall forward. But if you keep your hips underneath yourself when the horse is getting to the stop, then the horse will stop harder.”

To achieve good cutting posture—a relaxed body with feet close to the horse—the rider should break their core at the belly button while holding their shoulders back. “If your shoulders go forward, then you’ll fall forward,” Ben states. He relates the rider’s position in the saddle to

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A

how children are taught to get in the “athletic position” to learn football. “That means that you get on the balls of your feet, bend at the knees and have your shoulders back so that you can block the opposition if they come at you. That is the same position that you should be in when you’re sitting on your horse,” Ben explains. “In cutting, the opposition is the cow and you have to stop it.”

PRIORITIZING THE COW

B C As shown in photo A, the rider should stay relaxed in the saddle, bend at the belly button and keep their feet close to the horse’s sides without grabbing them. Poor posture on the horse, such as leaning forward, backward or sideways, as shown in photos B and C, makes the stop, draw back, and turn more difficult for the horse.

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The number one priority for both horses and riders in cutting is the cow. Making the cow the priority means you mirror the cow’s movements by doing what it does with the intent to stop the cow. Doing this builds confidence in both the horse and the rider, and makes it easy for them to identify where they need to be in relation to the cow.

“If my horse is not doing something right, then I’m probably not going to stop them harder, back them up stronger, or turn them faster. Instead, I’m going to relate it more to the cow. I do that because without the cow, we don’t have a sport,” shares Ben. “If we have a problem during the training process, then we make the horse work harder to find the cow and to stay in time with the cow.

Doing that allows me to not have to stop them hard, back them up hard, or snatch them through the turn.” This method also allows amateurs to more accurately discipline their horses.

“If they get behind because they missed a stop, if they don’t turn good or if they don’t back up good, then the amateur needs to get through that turn, go catch the cow, and stop it,” Ben states. “They have to chase the cow until they finally get back in the correct position to stop the cow.

“That chasing is hard work on the rider and it’s hard work for the horse, but 99% of people will learn where they need to be from doing that. Then, the next time they get out of position, they’ll get back to where they’re supposed to be quicker and they’ll know that they’re in the right place, because they’ll get the cow stopped much sooner.”

Once the cow has been stopped, the rider should let the horse get back to doing its job. This means they must be careful not to hustle the horse or kick the horse past the cow on its next turn.

If a horse makes a mistake, Ben advises his non-pros and amateurs to do something, regardless of whether what they do is the correct or incorrect reprimand for that situation. “The important thing is that they recognize that something has happened or the horse will learn that it can get away with making that mistake,” Ben cautions. “If the amateur does the right thing to correct the

horse, then I can praise them for it. If they do the wrong thing, then I can correct them so that they know what to do the next time it happens. If they do nothing, then that problem is going to get worse.”

IMPROVING THE TURN If a horse’s stop and draw are good, the rider may need to help him turn faster, but they must be careful not to get in the horse’s way.

“The cow needs to be what turns the horse around, not the person,” Ben says. “The horse is twice the size of most of the cows that we cut, so the horse can cover twice the ground that the cow can per move. If you turn before the cow turns, then you’ll get ahead of it.”

A cow usually initiates the turn with its head. The horse should mirror this action.

“When the horse initiates its turn, we want its nose to come first, just like the cow’s did,” Ben states. How fast or slow the turn needs to be can be measured by running an imaginary string from the cow’s nose to the horse’s nose.

When the horse and cow are stopped together in the correct position, the string is loose because they are parallel. As the cow’s nose starts to turn, the string would become tighter and pull the horse’s nose through the turn. If the horse got behind the cow, the string would pull the horse forward toward the cow’s nose. If the horse was too fast in the turn, the string would pull the horse back toward the cow’s nose.

Helping a horse turn better is easier for riders mounted on a well-broke horse. As the rider works to keep the horse’s position ideal for the turn, a willing partner makes the process simpler. “To encourage your horse to turn better, you need to get its ribs and shoulders out of the way to allow the horse to draw and pull through himself and make a 180-degree turn,” explains Ben. For problems with timing, a rider can ask the horse to go faster or slower to help them get back in time with the cow.

When the horse is trying to stay in time with the cow but the rider feels something else isn’t right, it is important they ask a trainer for help.

HOMESCHOOLING Ben likes amateurs to take lessons every week. Lessons are usually conducted in a group setting, enabling people to also learn by watching others. Each person in the group works two or three cows and then they have a group discussion. After that, each person works another two or three cows, using the knowledge they picked up from the first work and the discussion.

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“Regular practice is important because we are trying to paint a picture for the judge,” shares Ben. “The first picture that you paint probably wouldn’t be very good, but the more you get used to your paints and brushes, the better your painting will get. That’s the same with working a cow— the more you practice, the better you’ll be.”

When a person first begins learning how to cut, Ben concentrates on mirroring the cow’s movements. As the rider progresses, the intensity of the lessons increase and the rider is called on to help the horse more. “For example, if the horse kicks its hip out of the stop, which prevents it from being able to draw and causes the horse to do a barrel turn, the important thing for a beginner to do is to stay in time with the cow,” says Ben. “As they get better, we can teach them to keep the hip up underneath the horse by using their herd-side leg, but you can’t do that until they know how to stay with the cow.”

Ride for the stop, not the turn. Once the horse has stopped the cow, the horse will automatically turn when the cow turns.

GAME TIME Ben prefers his customers learn to compete at weekend shows before going to limited-age events. When showing on the weekends, he likes his beginners to show in classes that use re-run cows rather than fresh cattle.

“In a class like the $15,000 Amateur, generally the cows are not good and you can get bad habits from doing that, but if you listen to your trainer, you can learn a lot of lessons too. You’ll learn how to get through problems and hard runs,” says Ben. “When trainers want their customers to only cut fresh cows, I think it handicaps the customer in the long term, because they don’t learn how to get through adversity. The fresh cows make it almost too easy for them.”

In addition to learning what to do once they are in the show pen, amateurs must also learn how to dry work their horses immediately before they walk to the herd. “I use the dry work as practice for what I want my horse to do while I’m showing,” Ben says of the work that happens behind or directly in front of the judge’s stand before a run. “It’s a test run for how I want my horse to operate when he’s showing.”

To do that, Ben visualizes an imaginary cow and tells his clients to do the same. He pretends the cow takes him from side to side, and then he breaks it down until he is working in the middle of the pen.

“It’s a refresher of everything my horse has been taught up to that point,” Ben explains. “Go to the right, stop, draw back. As the [imaginary] cow turns, I’ll turn my horse

If a horse gets behind the cow, it is the rider’s job to hustle until the horse is back in position and able to stop the cow.

the way that I’ve taught him to turn—with the cow. Then I’ll stop that cow again going the other way.

“At the start, you’ll go a little farther across, about 20 strides, and then decrease the number of strides as you work the cow.

You want the horse to understand that when you’re working a cow that he has to stop the cow. He has to break it down to the middle of the pen to where we’re just going one stride, because the middle of the pen is where we win money.”

As the imaginary cow is broken down, the turns a rider asks the horse to make change from 180 degrees to 45-degree turns. “I teach my amateurs that we’re cutting in a ‘V.’ When you’re in the middle of the pen, if the horse is making a complete 180-degree turn, then eventually the horse will get behind the cow because the cow isn’t making 180-degree turns,” says Ben. “When you’re going from side to side, it’s 180-degree turns. But when the cow is in the middle of the pen going left and right, then that horse needs to know to stay up facing the cow. If they get too flat, then you’ll either get back in the herd or you’ll

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have a miss. A miss can destroy your run because the judges will one-point you to death.”

The dry work session should only take between 30 and 40 seconds, according to Ben. “Doing it for any longer wastes time. If you do it for longer, then the judge will get bored and think, ‘Come on man, let’s show!’

You don’t want the judges to have a bad taste in their mouth before you’ve even got to the herd.” Cutting is supposed to be fun. The more confidence a rider has, the more fun they will likely have. To help build that, Ben wants his clients to be involved in their run as opposed to simply being a passenger.

“A lot of people are told to stay out of the horse’s way. That basically means that you hand it over to the horse rather than trying to help the horse. When a rider does that, it takes their confidence away, because they’ll always be second-guessing themselves and they’ll be riding for the turn instead of the stop,” shares Ben. “I want my amateurs to be thinking about mirroring the cow and getting the cow stopped.”

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The horse should be a mirror image of the cow, doing what the cow does.

The cow initiates the turn, not the horse. To turn correctly, the cow must turn first, followed by the horse.

HAULING SOLO Throughout the hauling season, the texts or phone calls Ben receives from his customers change. At the start of the year or if the horse has just left his barn, the texts are usually just a score and how much money was won. As time goes by, though, the messages start to include issues with horses.

“If you feel that something is not right with your horse, you need to talk to your trainer.

You may be able to sort it out yourself by talking about it over the phone or the horse may need to go back to the trainer for a tune up,” Ben says. “If you can’t come home, generally we [professionals] can ask another trainer who is at the show to watch you work the horse and coach you through it. That’s the good part about our industry is that there’s always someone there who is willing to help.”

Repeatedly making the same mistake can lead to long-term problems with a horse. It also increases the time it takes for the trainer to correct those mistakes. Similarly, always asking the horse for big moves can cause him to get sore or execute those moves incorrectly.

“Your horse is like a truck, its parts can wear out. If you were driving your truck and mash-

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ing the brakes all the time, then your brakes would give out and you’d need to take it into the shop to get repaired,” Ben compares. “If you mash on your horse’s brakes all the time, your horse will get tired of stopping and will need to go back to the trainer to get tuned up or go to the vet because you’ve used it so much that he’ll have gotten sore.”

But saving the horse’s big stops for the show pen doesn’t mean you can’t stop during exercise or in the practice pen. “You can still stop them hard, but you want them to do it because they want to. You do that by making them more supple. If they’re soft

and supple, then they’re going to want to stop versus you making them stop hard,” explains Ben. “To make them supple, you’re going to have to be softer in the way that you work them. That means that you don’t go, run, and stop, run, and stop, which is what a lot of people like to do. When you’re just running and stopping, the horse doesn’t learn anything.”

Ben noted trainers aren’t just for the horses, they are there to help riders, too—especially ones who are hauling for a World title.

“Just like the horse needs to get corrected, you need to get correct too,” Ben adds. “If you don’t have a trainer who is 100% on your team, then you’re not going to get better.”

Although Ben sees the value in being able to send a video to a trainer and ask for input, he feels in-person training is far more beneficial. “From a video, he can tell you what you need to do, but more than likely, especially for small things, you need someone watching you and telling you what to do while you’re doing it,” explains Ben. “When you’re an amateur, you have to spend time with your trainer to get better.

It’s just like us trainers, we spend time with other trainers so we can get better, too.”

This article originally appeared in the October 15, 2017 Issue of Quarter Horse News.

Ben uses his ranch in Mineral Wells, TX, to teach his nonpros and amateurs. He prefers his clients come take pre-show lessons before competing to help brush up on their skills.

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TRAVEL p. 45 | FASHION p. 48 | COLLECTING THOUGHTS p. 50

equestrian

August 2019

lifestyle

Home to the Vermont Summer Festival, nestled just outside the village, Manchester is the perfect destination for summer horse showing.

TRAVEL

Summer Fun ➜ in Manchester, VT

BY LINDSAY BROCK/JUMP MEDIA

PHOTO: JUMP MEDIA

Manchester, VT, is the kind of place that captures the heart and keeps families coming back summer after summer. In addition to excellent shopping and dining opportunities, there’s the charm of a gentle pace of life, the family-friendly atmosphere, and six weeks of equineinspired entertainment.

When the weather begins to warm in the Northeast, the equestrian community seeks out unique and charming spots for summer showing. One of the most popular spots for cool mountain breezes and hot competition is Manchester. Home to the Vermont Summer Festival, nestled

just outside the village, Manchester is the perfect destination for summer horse showing.

The Vermont Summer Festival once alternated locations between various ski towns, even running in two different locations in one year. Roughly 25 years ago, the circuit made a permanent move to the Manchester area to better serve the largest concentration of their exhibitors. The country roads of Southern Vermont lead to a relaxed atmosphere with exciting competition and an allinclusive environment that continually ranks the Vermont Summer Festival

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among the most popular shows in North America.

True to form as a mountain town, Manchester offers outdoor activities at every turn. From cycling to mountain biking to cliff jumping and climbing, Vermont won’t disappoint the adventure-seeker. For the shopaholic, there is no place quite like the Manchester Designer Outlets. Quaint shops line the streets with boutique and name brand retail opportunities that are the perfect midday or after horse show retreat.

Then there is the food! Dining while visiting Manchester for the Vermont Summer Festival is an experience all its own with restaurants spanning the gamut of food options. Whether it’s a wood-fired pizza from Depot 62 Bistro & Café, dinner at The Chantecleer just up the road from the Vermont Summer Festival, or a night out at The Silver Fork, Manchester and its surrounding areas are a foodie’s paradise.

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equestrian lifestyle TRAVEL

The picture-perfect Equinox Resort is the Manchester destination for year-round relaxation.

MANCHESTER DESIGNER OUTLETS Stroll the streets of Manchester and indulge in shopping from iconic brands that include everything from Kate Spade New York to Armani. manchesterdesigneroutlets.com BATTENKILL BICYCLES In need of bike rentals?

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WHERE TO STAY

KIMPTON TACONIC HOTEL Voted one of the “Best Hotels in Vermont, 2018”

by U.S. News & World Report, Kimpton Taconic Hotel is a nod to the grand leisure inns of days past. taconichotel.com THE DORSET INN The Dorset Inn has thrived for more than 220 years as a quintessential Vermont lodging and dining experience. During your stay, walk over and visit artisanal bakery, Dorset Rising, for a morning cof-

fee and pastry. dorsetinn.com

THE EQUINOX RESORT Experience luxurious accommodations, upscale on-site dining, and a picture-perfect location at The Equinox Resort, the Manchester destination for year-round relaxation. equinoxresort.com

THE SILVER FORK Be sure to make a reservation for this hidden gem! The chef’s fresh, international-inspired menu is well worth the wait. Our pick of the menu is the wiener schnitzel. thesilverforkvt.com THE CHANTECLEER RES-

WHERE TO EAT DEPOT 62 BISTRO & CAFÉ Try classic wood-fired pizza, like the arugula brick oven pizza, and Mediterranean fare before browsing an incredible selection of one-of-a-kind home furnishings for sale. depot62.com

TAURANT A star of the local dining scene, Chantecleer sits in a remodeled dairy barn and offers fine American cuisine with European sophistication. We recommend the parmesan crusted halibut. chantecleerrestaurant.com

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PHOTOS: (ABOVE) JUMP MEDIA; (BELOW) COURTESY OF DEPOT 62 BISTRO & CAFE

VERMONT SUMMER FESTIVAL HORSE SHOW Watch the best of hunter, jumper, and equitation competition in a familyfriendly atmosphere at the base of the Green Mountains in Southern Vermont. vt-summerfestival.com

Battenkill Bicycles has you covered if you need parts or repairs too! battenkillbicycles.com

PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE EQUINOX RESORT

WHAT TO DO

The Vermont Summer Festival has competition for all ages, from leadline to grand prix.

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equestrian lifestyle FASHION

Equestrian Ensembles Horse-themed Dresses

BY KELLEY ROCHE

WHETHER IT’S TOO HOT FOR PANTS OR YOU HAVE A SPECIAL EVENT WITH A DRESS CODE, THERE IS nothing like keeping on theme with your favorite animal. This month we have horse-themed dresses to help keep you cool and cute.

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[1] AlexandAlexa Molo White Horse Stripe Cassandra Dress ($69.00) Junior riders will love to chill out on a hot day in this cute and comfy horse-adorned dress. alexandalexa.com [2] UNibelle Women’s Vintage 1950’s Sleeveless Horse Print Swing Dress ($39.99) Feeling a bit vintage? This cute number is soft, comfortable, and even has pockets. amazon.com/sp?seller=A1Z6GZJVIJ4ZT1 [3] Miss Scarlett Boutique Equestrian Silk Dress ($98) This horse-printed silk halter dress will have you feeling comfortable yet stylish at the same time. missscarlettboutique.com [4] Rockin Horse Art Shop Puzzling Party Dress ($50.50) Wanting to represent your favorite animal outside the barn? Say no more. This fun dress is perfect with a set of heels for a night out or a party. rockinhorseartshop.com 48

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equestrian lifestyle COLLECTING THOUGHTS

Rebecca Hart Rebecca Hart is the Silver and Bronze medalist from the 2018 World Equestrian Games. She is a three-time Paralympic team member, competing in 2008 in Beijing, 2012 in London, and 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, finishing in the top five in all three games. She was also alternate for the 2004 games in Greece. She is currently ranked the number one rider in her division, Grade III, on the FEI Para Dressage World Individual Ranking. She has competed extensively in international equestrian competition in the United States, Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia.

She is a seven time National Para-equestrian Champion and two-time National Reserve Champion.

Rebecca also speaks at events promoting Paralympic sports and at national conferences for the Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia Foundation. She is a member of the Active Athletes Council for the United States Equestrian Federation.

THE BASICS Name: Rebecca Hart Age: 35 Business: Professional Para Dressage Rider THE FUN STUFF Do you have any nicknames? Becca or Becs.

What’s your favorite barn hack? I use SMB sport boots to hold ice sheets on my horse’s legs after they work out. Easier than ice boots and it holds the ice sheets around the fetlocks.

Who do you look up to? I look up to my big sister Katie. I trust her implicitly. She has always supported me and had my back. She builds me up when I need it and slaps me down when I need that too. She is an environmental educator and strives to make the world a better place. She has come to every major championship I have been to.

What famous horse would you love to ride? That would have to be Valegro.

If you could have any super power, what would it be? My superpower would be the ability to speak and understand any language. I love to travel, and I would love to be able to communicate with people in their own language and dialect.

What is the last thing you binged? Game of Thrones.

Do you have any lucky charms? I have a stuffed Nemo from Finding Nemo. My good friend gave it to me to remind me that when things get tough to “just keep swimming.” It goes with me to every competition.

What’s your guilty pleasure? My mom’s chocolate mint squares. It’s a rich fudge brownie with a crème de menthe buttercream layer and a rich chocolate topping. I eat one and end up eating the whole pan, my willpower goes out the window.

What’s the first thing you do when you get home after a long day? I pick up my cat Walter and give him a cuddle. He’s more dog than cat. He’s been with me for the last 10 years.

Who is your equestrian idol? In the horse world, I look up to Debbie MacDonald. I have followed her career in the ring and as a mentor.

What is one thing in your tack trunk that you couldn’t live without? My Velcro straps. They hold my leg steady when I ride and let me give my horses clearer cues.

If you weren’t in the horse industry, what would you be doing? I would be working in the film industry as a set designer. I love staging theater and film sets. I have worked as a stage manager in the past.

What podcast is at the top of your playlist? This American Life or The Illusionist.

What is on your riding bucket list? I want to ride the able-bodied Grand Prix.

What is your favorite horse movie? I like the classics National Velvet and Black Beauty.

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PHOTO: MONICA STEVENSON

What song do you love to have on repeat? “This is me” from The Greatest Showman. It has kind of become a personal anthem.

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7/12/19 6/6/19 10:40 10:37 AM

Apple Knoll Farm SUMMER JUMPER SHOW SERIES EVERY WEDNESDAY 6/12 TO 9/11 Presented by North Bridge Equine Cash Prizes for Champion and Reserve!

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INDUSTRY WIDE AFFILIATES p. 56 | FOXHUNTING p. 58 | HUNTER/JUMPER p. 60 | EVENTING p. 63 DRESSAGE p. 66 | DRIVING p. 68 | WESTERN p. 70 | BREED AFFILIATES p. 73

news & te affilia s e t a upd

the scoop

Steuart Pittman, founder of the Retired Racehorse Project, was honored with the Humane Horseman of the Year from the Humane Society of the United States.

PHOTOS: (ABOVE LEFT) BRYANT TAYLOR/THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE UNITED STATES; (ABOVE RIGHT) KEVIN M BERNARD; (BELOW) AMERICAN HORSE COUNCIL STAFF

Humane Horseman of the Year Goes to Steuart Pittman Though the match was tied 6-6 at halftime, the NEWport team beat the OLDport team, 13-10.

Newport Cup Title Taken by NEWport team

NEWPORT POLO HOSTED A BATTLE between young and old, delivering an exciting game between NEWport vs.

OLDport. Representing the OLDport team were players Roger Souto, Michel Nseir, Dan Keating, and Dave Bullis. The opposing team, NEWport, fielded Tim

Day/Lauren Bilsky, Jenna Davis, Minnie Keating, and Hamish Wates. Both teams put up a strong fight for this year’s Newport Cup title, but the NEWport players had fire in their bellow to avenge last season’s loss, with a final score of 13-10.

The Humane Society of the United States recently honored Steuart Pittman, founder of the Retired Racehorse Project, as its Humane Horseman of the Year. This award is given on an annual basis to an individual who demonstrates an outstanding commitment to protect American equines. Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman was recognized for his commitment to the retraining of former racehorses for second careers, as well as his successful efforts to gain endorsements from the Maryland Horse Council on key equine protection federal legislation.

Inaugural American Horse Council Hickey Award Presented to Thomas Davis On Tuesday June 11, at its annual Congressional reception, the American Horse Council (AHC) announced and awarded the inaugural James J. Hickey Jr. Award presented in honor of the past AHC President, “Jay” Hickey, who served from 1993 to 2016. The new award will be presented annually to an individual who has been a great supporter of the horse industry and the American Horse Representative Thompson Council. The 2019 Hickey Award was presented to Thomas congratulates Mr. Davis for “Tad” Davis of Davis & Harman LLP for his outstanding receiving the AHC James service to the horse industry.

Hickey Jr. Award.

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the scoop

[LEFT] McLain Ward and HH Azur surpassed 25 contenders to claim the $250,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon CSI4* for a record eleventh time in his career. [RIGHT] Boyd Martin and Contestor clinched the $50,000 Devon Arena Eventing Competition for an third year in a row.

Hosts Successful Competition Across the Disciplines $50,000 DEVON ARENA EVENTING COMPETITION For the third year in a row at the Devon Horse Show and County Fair, the popular $50,000 Devon Arena Eventing competition, sponsored by Douglas and Cynthia Howe and Salt Works, showcased top-level eventing in a unique class that incorporates two of the three elements of threeday eventing: cross-country and show jumping. A packed crowd looked on as a record 33 entries turned out to challenge famed course designer Captain Mark Philips’ tracks, where ultimately Boyd Martin and Denise Lahey’s Contestor took home the top prize after dominating two rounds of competition, while defending champions Chris Talley and Sandro’s Star finished with reserve honors and Buck Davidson and Carlevo rounded out the top three.

The 26-obstacle course challenged horse-and-rider combinations to navigate typical elements found on a cross-country course, including skinny brushes, tables, and corner obstacles, while also tackling stadium fences.

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the first round set a time-allowed of two minutes and 38 seconds, which posed an issue for 17 combinations.

Following round one, the top 12 athletes returned to the Dixon Oval to complete 15 more obstacles in a jumpoff round.

Entering the ring first in round two was Talley with Hannah Salazaar’s Faramund. The pair, starting the round carrying two time faults from round one, finished the second round with four faults, leaving the field wide open for the remaining 11 competitors. Entering the ring seven trips later, Martin and Contestor tackled the course with ease to take over the lead with zero combined faults and a time of 73.30 seconds. Talley, returning to the ring three trips later with his second mount qualified for the jump-off, Sandro’s Star, came just shy of Martin’s time in 73.94 seconds.

As last to go, Davidson and Carlevo LLC’s Carlevo also came close to both Martin’s and Talley’s time, but missed the mark by over a second, finishing in 74.92 seconds.

LADIES SIDE SADDLE

$250,000 SAPPHIRE GRAND PRIX OF DEVON CSI4* The Devon Horse Show once again belonged to the “King of Devon” McLain Ward of Brewster, NY, who surpassed 25 contenders to claim the $250,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon CSI4* for a record elev-

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PHOTOS: PHELPS MEDIA/ THE BOOK LLC

The Devon Horse Show

The Ladies Side Saddle division took center stage during Ladies Day at the Devon Horse Show. The division featured an under saddle sponsored

by Courtyard by Marriott, a hunter hack and an over fences class. Susan Sisco and Ringfort Tinkaturk ultimately took home the championship tricolor, earning first place in the under saddle and in the hunter hack, and second in the over fences.

Sisco and Ringfort Tinkaturk are no strangers to the Devon winner’s circle.

The pair took home the championship in 2016 after Ringfort Tinkaturk made a career change to side saddle from eventing. The 14-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding competed at the CCI2* level with Lizzie Snow and served as Snow’s CH-Y2* mount at the 2013 North American Junior & Young Rider Championships. The transition proved to be no challenge for Ringfort Tinkaturk under the expert guidance of Sisco.

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PHOTOS: PHELPS MEDIA/ THE BOOK LLC

the scoop

The Devon Horse Show continued from page 54

enth time in his career. Ward, who is ranked fourth in the world on the Longines Rankings, rode the 13-yearold Belgian Warmblood mare, HH Azur, owned by Double H Farm, around the famed Dixon Oval in front of a packed crowd, consisting of diehard show jumping fans to Pennsylvania locals, hoping to witness some of the greatest names in the sport of show jumping go head-tohead for the most coveted trophy in the Devon collection: the Celeste McNeal Harper Perpetual Trophy.

Course designer of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, Guilherme Jorge built a technical first round course consisting of 13 obstacles, where nine were able to produce clear rounds to ensure a jump-off. Of those nine, six finished double-clear.

Twenty-five-year-old Catherine Tyree and Mary Tyree’s Bokai led the way in the tie-breaking round with the first double-clear performance of the evening in 41.05 seconds. However, their top finish was soon overtaken by

Ireland’s Paul O’Shea and Tequestrian Farms, LLC’s Imerald Van’t Voorhof, who followed with another faultless round in 39.41 seconds to move into the first place position.

Throughout the next four rounds, Ali Wolff and Blacklick Bend Farm’s Casall, who captured their first FEI win together at Devon in 2018 in the $50,000 Jet Run Devon Welcome Stake CSI4*, came the closest to catching O’Shea in 40.14 seconds.

However, Ward and HH Azur entered through the iconic blue “Where Champions Meet” archway next, going all out and clearing the final oxer in a blazing 38.12 seconds for the lead as the crowd erupted with applause and cheers. Ward’s time held up through the remaining two challengers, ultimately garnering him his third consecutive win in the class.

THREE-GAITED PARK HORSE STAKE The Dixon Oval closed out with several championships in the breed divisions of the Devon Horse Show. In the exciting Three-Gaited Park Horse Stake, Smith Lilly and Ceil and Kenny

Wheeler’s Extreme Ways took the top spot after impressing the judges with his performance, manners, presence, quality and conformation against six other competitors. They were awarded the championship cooler, sponsored

by Misdee Wrigley Miller, as well as the Betsy Van Duren Memorial Perpetual Trophy.

In the Three-Gaited English Show Pleasure Horse Championship, an impressive group of 11 competitors showed their horses to be judged 75% on manners, performance, and presence and 25% on conformation and neatness of attire. The prestigious championship was won by Nancy Ehle and Trust In Love, adding their names on the Second Dennis Mayer Memorial Challenge Trophy, donated by his friends.

Earlier in the day, in the FiveGaited English Show Pleasure Horse Championship, Ceil and Callaway’s Brioni claimed the tricolor ribbon and championship cooler, also sponsored

by Miller. Five competitors were judged on manners, performance, presence, and quality, but it was Ceil who walked away with the win.

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August 2019

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affiliates [ EQUINE JOURNAL AFFILIATE ]

[LEFT] Laurie Grann won the Betsey MacDonald Painting Raffle. [RIGHT] Rita Ballou at the National Trails Day trail ride.

Bay State Trail Riders Association Celebrates National Trails Day ARTICLE SUBMITTED BY LYNN PARESKY AND ANNAMARIA PAUL; PHOTOGRAPHY BY BECKY KALAGHER

NATIONAL TRAILS DAY IS THE ONE day a year when trails take center stage across the country. It is a day when trail groups raise money or tackle trail improvement projects. For 27 years, the Bay State Trail Riders Association (BSTRA) has held a National Trails Day Fundraiser Ride to celebrate the wonderful trails we enjoy with our equine companions and to raise money to make improvement to trails.

This year’s ride, sponsored by Yered Trailers, was held at Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle, MA. The park is a working farm with trails that meander along fields and through the woods. Riders attended from Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode

Island, Connecticut, and across Massachusetts. Riders were not disappointed by the stunning beauty of the park, as more than one was overheard saying they planned to come back to ride there again.

A scrumptious Italian buffet was served to returning riders. The menu included eggplant parmesan, Italian sausage, meatballs, pasta, and desserts.

After lunch, the winner of the Betsey MacDonald Painting Raffle was drawn.

Congratulations to Laurie Grann of Exeter, RI, who had the winning ticket.

Special thanks go to artist Betsey MacDonald for the generous donation of her beautiful painting! After the drawing, the top participants who collected the most sponsorships were

awarded generous gift buckets. A huge raffle with more than $4,000 in prizes followed the awards ceremony, where many went home with prizes.

BSTRA would like to thank everyone who made National Trails Day successful. Whether you are a sponsor, an event volunteer, collected sponsorship, donated, purchased a raffle ticket, or participated in the ride, please know that you made a difference! All money raised goes directly back into the trails, enabling projects that will ensure equestrians continue to have safe access to our trail network. Since 1989, BSTRA has put more than $616,000 into local trails—we could not do that without your support! Thank you!

[ EQUINE JOURNAL AFFILIATE ]

Connecticut Trail Rides Association Members Enjoy Blessing of Mounts, Potluck Dinners, and Poker Rides SUBMITTED BY PATTI CROWTHER

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invitational by the Cheshire Horse Council and hosted by Area Vice President Cathy Clouse, her husband and cohost Jim Clouse, and Area Vice President Christel Maturo. Christine Zinnert Barry and John Barry graciously allowed the event to be held at Barry Farm again this year. The

trail consisted of a fast and slow group for the two-hour ride.

Following the trail, members partook in a wonderful service by Pastor Mark Valigorsky, who blessed each and every horse and rider that were in attendance.

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PHOTO: GINA MCMANUS

SUMMER IS FLYING BY, AND WE here at the Connecticut Trail Rides Association (CTRA) hope that everyone is enjoying their steeds, the trails, and happy campfires all season long.

We lucked out on May 19 with no rain at the Annual Blessing of the Mounts

affiliates

Connecticut Trail Rides Association continued from page 56

He also took time for those who couldn’t bring their horse but came with bridles, halters, pictures, and even tail hair! It was so exciting to see our past president, Gigi Ouellette, and her newly acquired mustang, King, at this trail ride. She has brought King back to health and boy is he handsome! Gigi really enjoyed the trail ride and ended the day with a big smile as they were being blessed! The barbecue after was a nice ending to the day; a big thank you goes to the Cheshire Horse for supplying the food and Jim Clouse, Philip Testa, and Ed Levin for cooking!

Memorial Day weekend turned out to also have good weather. We had a wonderful potluck dinner in the pavilion hosted by Denise Clark on Saturday evening. I’ve never seen so much food to choose from. Our second general membership meeting was held directly after dinner. It was a great night of socializing and catching up with everyone. The next morning, we were treated to a great breakfast hosted by President Lynn Gogolya and Treasurer Ruth Strontzer. Vice President Peggy Robinson volunteered at the grill,

and she sure knows how to cook!

Most attendees went for a trail ride after the breakfast.

On the weekend of June 7-9, the club hosted a camp out and trail ride at the Sunrise Resort at Machimoodus State Park in East Haddam, CT, with clear weather.

The weekend kicked off on Friday with a pizza dinner. On Saturday campers started off with breakfast, followed by marking the trails for Sunday’s ride, and ended the day with a potluck dinner.

Janet Sampieri and Jean Cassella hosted Sunday’s poker ride. There were a combination of obstacles and events on the trail, teams of riders would have Kowboy Ken has made the move into retired life! to complete the obstacle with their In other news, KowboyKen has horses and if successful, they were retired from a long life of hard work. given one envelope containing a card.

We wish him a long healthy retirement, Each team would need a full hand for enjoying the trails, his dog, and of a chance to have the winning hand. course his sisterhood of the traveling Envelopes remained sealed until the pants with horses. Also member Chris riders returned to the starting point.

Mard is a grandmother again! Her grandThe team with the winning hand was daughter, Madilyn Cole, was born to her Laurie Plourde and Patricia Hill. The daughter, Aimee Cole. Congratulations winning junior team was Madeline to the whole family.

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Foxhunting news [ EQUINE JOURNAL AFFILIATE ]

[ABOVE] The Myopia Horse Show will include a demonstration of the hounds with Philip Headdon. [LEFT] Following the demonstration, attendees can meet the hounds up close and personal.

The Myopia Hunt Club Prepares for 119th Annual Horse Show ARTICLE AND PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY LAUREN NORTON

ON AUGUST 30, THE GATES OF THE historic Myopia Schooling Field on Bay Road in Hamilton, MA, will open to host the 119th Myopia Horse Show.

The earliest version of the show dates to the mid 1880s as annual Labor Day Sports. Myopia Hunt Club (MHC) invited the farming community to participate in steeplechases for qualified hunters, flat races, gymkana, and “push ball”—a full-contact, malletless polo using a horse-sized leather ball. Later, horse show classes were added, including single harness, pairs, tandems, four-in-hands, as well as classes for saddle horses, polo ponies, farmers’ utility horses, draft horses, and hunter classes with jumps.

Landowners who had welcomed the Myopia Hunt through their properties were invited to a luncheon under a large tent in the field.

The hunter classes in those days were designed to test the mettle of a good foxhunting horse in Essex County. In what was then a “live hunt,” foxhunters would follow the 58

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hounds led by the huntsman and whippers-in, arriving at a covert to flush the fox. The horses gallop after them, navigating obstacles such as loose stonewalls and fences up to four feet over rocky and broken ground.

Over many years the Myopia Horse Show evolved to include show jumping, equitation, and working hunter disciplines. And over the years the Hunt has changed. Hounds now follow a scent dragged in advance by hunt staff, but the concept remains the same. Philip Headdon, MHC’s experienced and talented Huntsman, selects, breeds, trains, and cares for the hounds. He uses a horn to encourage and call hounds and to inform the field. He also clears and maintains trails all through Essex County that are enjoyed by equestrians and pedestrians alike.

Yet the “outside course” remains the center of activity at the Myopia Horse Show. The permanent jumps are augmented by additional natural

jumps to create a beautiful course for the opening classes on Friday afternoon known as “Hunt Night.” The Friday classes are open to horses and ponies that have regularly hunted or are suitable to the hunt field. These classes are most closely aligned with the origins of the Myopia Horse Show.

On Saturday, supporters and sponsors enjoy a luncheon ringside under a tent similar to those put up a hundred years ago to enjoy the Campaigners Cup—lead line ponies— a demonstration by Philip Headdon with hounds and whippers-in, and the Ladies Side Saddle class for the Barbara Keough Trophy. The day is capped off with the $2,500 Myopia Hunter Derby sponsored by Salem Five Bank. Meanwhile, on a separate course, children and adults compete in the hunter and equitation classes, including New England Horsemen’s Council and MHC medal classes.

The horse show finishes up Sunday with the jumping classes, with fences ranging from 2'3" to the 3'6" $5,000 Myopia Jumper Classic sponsored by Black Rock Farm and the Bella Research Group. For more information, visit our website, myopiahuntclub.com.

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7/10/19 10:02 AM

foxhunting

[ EQUINE JOURNAL AFFILIATE ] Children attending Polo in the Country have the opportunity to partake in an oldfashioned candy toss.

Norfolk Hunt Club To Host Polo in the Country in September ARTICLE SUBMITTED BY GIL RODGERS; PHOTOGRAPHY BY RUTH BALTOPOULOS

POLO IN THE COUNTRY IS AN annual event sponsored by the Norfolk Hunt Club for the enjoyment and participation of the entire community featuring an exciting polo match, a special half-time program, and activities for everyone—especially children. Children may also take pony rides, participate in an old-fashioned candy toss, and get autographs from the polo players. This year will be the 17th consecutive year with over 1,000 attendees expected. The proceeds are for preservation and protection of recreational space and other open space in Medfield, Dover, Sherborn, and surrounding communities.

Polo in the Country will take place on Sunday, September 8, 2019, with a rain date of the following Sunday, September 15, 2019 at the Norfolk Hunt Steeplechase Course at 240 North Street, Medfield, MA. Gates will open at 11:00 a.m, activities begin at 12:15 p.m, and the polo match starts at 1:00 p.m.

The polo match has historical significance between two competitive teams from the Dedham Polo Club and the Norfolk Hunt Club. Similar contests were held over 130 years ago since 1888. In fact, polo has a noteworthy relationship to the Norfolk Hunt Club as cross-country riding and foxhunting were sports instituted by polo players to keep their polo ponies and themselves in shape during the off months.

The polo game will be six “chukkers” divided into two halves of three chukkers each with an extended half-time break.

Each chukker is the official clocked time of seven minutes. The term “chukker”

in Hindi Sanskrit means “wheel” or “to turn.” This probably refers to the sometimes confusing rule that the field of play reverses after each goal; following a score the teams will be going in the opposite direction.

Although details are still being worked out, the half-time show will have special features different from preceding years.

Children from the Norfolk Pony Club will be participating in riding agility exercises, races, and games mounted on miniature horses, ponies, or other equines. Gymkhana may be included demonstrating a set of contests that has many different versions involving speed, abilities, dexterity, and coordination of riders.

Gymkhana also goes way back to the origins of polo as a riding discipline from ancient Persia.

A second halftime feature is the Parade of the Norfolk Hunt Club Foxhounds from the Dover-based Norfolk

Kennels, one of the oldest kennels in America still in use. The pack will be led by huntsman and Master of Foxhounds Alyse Phipps and whippers-in from the Norfolk Hunt Club. Children will be able to meet the hounds and riders on the field following the demonstration.

Preceding the polo game will be the Presentation of the Colors by the prestigious Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Park Ranger Mounted Unit and the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Unit.

Marcus D’Angelo, a junior at Medfield High School, will sing the National Anthem.

Three types of seating are available: general admission, preferred table seating under tents alongside center field, and reserved tailgate spots at the field’s edge. For more information, to reserve a tailgate spot or table, or to purchase advanced tickets, please email norfolkpolo@gmail.com or call 508-2509953. We hope to see you there!

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Send your news for future columns to editorial@equinejournal.com.

BY TERISÉ COLE

Hunter/Jumper news

DEVON DARLINGS Arrowhead Farms of Concord, MA, had a great showing at the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair in Pennsylvania. In the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, head trainer Kristen Bumpus rode Barbara Le Stage’s Diadora to a two-round total of 372 to take the top prize.

After sitting in sixth after the first round, the duo nailed the handy round to finish in first during their debut in the Dixon Oval. In the High 60

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Performance Hunter division, Bumpus and the Dutch Warmblood mare took third, seventh, and eighth.

Also at her first Devon outing and from Massachusetts was Emma Fletcher of Grazing Fields Farm. Aboard her own Conspicuous, Fletcher rode in the Platinum Performance/ United States Equestrian Federation Show Jumping Talent Search 3*, Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) Equitation Classic, and Maclay Horsemanship class, taking seventh in the WIHS Jumper Phase and fourth in the Maclay. She also qualified for the Hunterdon Cup Equitation Classic, whose East Coast event was held at the Devon Show Grounds in July.

LOST LEGEND Pine Meadow Farm in Vass, NC, announced the passing of Rox Dene, one of the industry’s top hunter horses. Piloted by

Elizabeth Solter of Maryland, the Dutch Warmblood-Thoroughbred mare won at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show, WIHS, and more in the early 1990s. Our thoughts are with Rox Dene’s owner, Chanda Boylen, and all the mare’s connections.

RETIRED Top show jumper Lauren Hough announced in June that her grand prix mount, Ohlala, retired from the top of the sport.

After years of competing with Hough in the saddle–their most recent win being the 2017 HITS Ocala Great American $1 Million Grand Prix—and suffering an injury last year that caused the duo to withdraw from the World Equestrian Games shortlist, the Swedish Warmblood mare will now have a breeding career.

AWESOME AT OX RIDGE The team at Madison Show

Stables in Merrimac, MA, fared well at the Ox Ridge Charity Horse Show in Connecticut. In Leadline, Olivia O’Connell took first on Unique, while Caitlyn Culbertson rode the versatile mare to first and third in the .95m Jumper division and fourth in the Low Child/Adult Jumpers. Camryn Biery and Romance had a great week, taking top ribbons in the Suitable Hunter, Pre-Low Hunter, Modified Adult Hunter, and Modified Adult Equitation divisions. D’artagnan and Susan Kern Reaney finished with top placings in the .95m Jumper and High Child/Adult Jumper division and were fifth in the High Child/Adult Jumper Classic. The 1m Jumper division saw Renae Samay and Indian Love Call take three firsts; Jeff Papows finish second with Lady Guinevere—the duo also took first in the 1.10m Jumpers; and Shaelyn Kelliher ride Inquisitive to fifth.

PHOTOS: (LEFT) BRAGGING RIGHTS PHOTOGRAPHY; (ABOVE) CALLIE CLEMENT/PHELPS SPORTS

EMERGING ATHLETE Congratulations to Mackenzie Barnes of Lincolnville, ME, who participated in a United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) Emerging Athletes Program Regional Training Session. Barnes rode in the Ohio session at the University of Findlay with clinicians Julie Winkel and Colleen Reed.

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7/8/19 7:56 PM

PHOTOS: ESI PHOTOGRAPHY

[ABOVE] Kristen Bumpus and Diadora won the $25,000 United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) International Hunter Derby at the Devon Horse Show.

[LEFT] Mackenzie Barnes participated in a USHJA Emerging Athletes Program Regional Training Session at the University of Findlay.

hunter/jumper

[LEFT] Laura Chapot impressively rode Chandon Blue to take first in the $50,000 Purina Animal Nutrition FEI CSI2* Grand Prix. [RIGHT] Jennifer Jones rode Virgo DC to victory in the $25,000 United States Hunter Jumper Association International Hunter Derby.

HITS Saugerties Spring Series Closes with HITS on the Hudson III second round of the Derby, where a strong score of 203 in the handy round would move her to the top of the standings for round two and the Overall Champion title with a total of 373. With a total score of 363.75, Hannah Isop and Believe came in second, followed by Laena Romond and Uptown, who took third with a total of 362.5.

Lila Ouellette and King Of Hearts took home the blue ribbon in the $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix with scores of 85 and 84 in her respective rounds to produce an overall score of 169.

Second place went to Hannah Cocurullo and Gangster with a strong overall score of 166, leaving third place to Lena Reeb and Call Me with a score of 163.5.

International competitors entered the Wilmington Trust Stadium for the $50,000 Purina Animal Nutrition FEI CSI2* Grand Prix. Taking home top honors was Laura Chapot for her ride aboard Chandon Blue.

Kevin Mealiff and Viper Vrombautshoeve Z Top $50,000 Ox Ridge Grand Prix PHOTOS: ESI PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOS: (LEFT) BRAGGING RIGHTS PHOTOGRAPHY; (ABOVE) CALLIE CLEMENT/PHELPS SPORTS

AFTER THREE WEEKS OF competition, the HITS Saugerties Spring Series came to a close with the $25,000 United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) International Hunter Derby in the Hunter Stadium and the $50,000 Purina Animal Nutrition FEI CSI2* Grand Prix in the Wilmington Trust Grand Prix Stadium at HITS on the Hudson III. Exhibitors from near and far enjoyed beautiful weather and great competition.

Week III featured the first of three $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derbies to be held this season, as well as the $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix for Junior and Amateur riders. Both are qualifiers for the HITS Championship, which takes place annually during HITS on the Hudson VIII. Jennifer Jones rode Virgo DC to a score of 170 in the first round of the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby. This would place Jones in fifth going into the

THE PENULTIMATE DAY OF THE 88TH Annual Ox Ridge Charity Horse Show, presented by the Lindsay Maxwell Charitable Fund, featured some of the region’s most talented horse-and-rider combinations, each taking to the ring for a shot at the top prize in the high-

light class of the week, the $50,000 Ox Ridge Grand Prix, also presented by the Lindsay Maxwell Charitable Fund.

Besting a large 15-horse jump-off comprised of young riders and veterans from five nations, Ireland’s Kevin Mealiff and BKS Horse Farms LLC’s Viper

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“He [Chandon Blue] jumped really well both days. I had a super round on Friday but got beat in the end because a few people decided to take an inside turn to the in-and-out,” Chapot said. “Today, I was really hoping we would make the jump-off because I felt like we had a good shot.”

“I knew there was a possibility of leaving out a stride from fence two to three,” Chapot explained her plan going into the jump-off. “But I thought for my horse, it would be better just coming in at a little bit of an angle and trying to make a better turn back to the next fence. He has a lot of good ground speed and the last two fences were really quite a run, so I thought I could make up the time there,” she continued.

Second place went to Michale Hutchinson and Nektarina with a ride time of 39.71. Alexanne Thibault and Sanjay finished off the top three by snatching third place in 40.53 seconds.

Vrombautshoeve Z proved to be the best performers of the night, leading the victory gallop and earning The Michael S. Griffin Memorial Grand Prix Trophy, donated by McLain Ward, as the fastest of only two double-clean pairs out of the initial field.

Serving as the successful trailblazers for the event, Mattias Tromp and Manhattan logged the first clear trip of the afternoon as the second pair over designer Philip DeVita’s 14-fence first round track, leaving all the fences

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hunter/jumper

Kevin Mealiff and Viper Vrombautshoeve Z continued from page 61

upright within the 76-second time allowed. Forcing a jump-off, Mealiff and Iliano Van D’Abelendreef subsequently added their names to the short course list with FEI World Equestrian Games team gold medalist Adrienne Sternlicht of the U.S. and Pembroke immediately following suit.

As the class progressed, foot-perfect rounds proved to be the norm, with 12 more partnerships successfully finishing the track without faults. Aboard their respective mounts, Stephanie Gallucc, Alexandra Pielet, Colin Savaria, Lauren Fischer, Mark Bluman, Sydney Shulman, McLain Ward, Peter Leone, and Jazz Johnson Merton each turned in eligible rides with no penalties.

With the first phase of the contest finished, the 15 pairs were slated to return for the tiebreaker riding in the reverse order in which they qualified. Whittled down to eight efforts, the pattern saw its first double-clear effort of the class completed by Pielet in the irons aboard Helene VE, setting the pace to beat in

36.493 seconds Ireland’s Kevin Mealiff and Viper Vrombautshoeve Z won the Ox as the fifth duo Ridge Grand Prix with double in the start list. clear rounds.

Chasing down the frontrunners, following challengers put the pressure on, but with only a handful left to ride, Pielet and Helene VE still sat atop the leaderboard. Bluman with the ride on Cartouche and Shulman with standing in the way of the Irish team’s Villamoura each bettered the leading victory, but Mealiff’s champion status pair’s time with marks of 35.186 seconds and 34.292 seconds, respectively, but both was secured when the final exhibitors dropped a rail, solidifying Mealiff and lowered a single fence to keep them out Viper Vrombautshoeve Z as the winner of of contention for the title. the $50,000 Ox Ridge Grand Prix.

The third-to-last to tackle the track, Pielet and Co-Pielet LLC’s Helene Mealiff and Viper Vrombautshoeve Z VE captured second place overall as finally added another double-clean only the second duo to complete two performance to the roster, crossing the fault-free trips, and Shulman and Jill finish line in 36.314 seconds, successful Shulman’s Villamoura rounded out the at ousting the top pair by mere millisecpodium spots in third as the fastest of onds. As the last to go, Johnson Merton the four-faulters. and Corona SB were the last obstacle

PHOTO: PHELPS SPORT/BARRE DUKES

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| August 2019

7/12/19 10:45 AM 7/8/19 7:57 PM

Send your news for future columns to editorial@equinejournal.com.

BY TERISÉ COLE

Eventing news Team, as well as the reserves, for the Lima 2019 Pan American Games.

Congratulations to Boyd Martin of Cochranville, PA, with Tsetserleg and On Cue as his direct reserve; Doug Payne of Aiken, SC, with Starr Witness and Vandiver as his direct reserve; Tamie Smith of Murrieta, CA, with Fleeceworks Royal and Mai Baum as her direct reserve; and Lynn Symansky of Middleburg, VA, with RF Cool Play. Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp of Ocala, FL, was named as the traveling reserve with Cooley Quicksilver. Additional reserves include Phillip Dutton of West Grove, PA, with Sea of Clouds; Sydney Elliott of Bossier City, LA, with QC Diamantaire; Will Faudree of Southern Pines, NC, with Pfun; and Lauren Kieffer of The Plains, VA, with Vermiculus.

Lauren Kieffer and Vermiculus were nominated as U.S. Eventing Team reserves for the Lima 2019 Pan American Games.

PHOTO: COURTESY OF MISSY MILLER

MAGNIFICENT MILLER Missy Miller, who is based out of North Salem, NY, in the summer months, traveled to the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair in Pennsylvania for the third annual Devon Arena Eventing. Aboard her own Quinn, Miller took seventh with a first round time of 153.67 and a 78.8 with four faults in the second round.

Returning to New York, Miller

competed at the Larkin Hill Horse Trials with Shirsheen Fun Time, Ormond Views Rascal, and Amazing Mi, where she took eighth with Shirsheen Fun Time in Novice-C.

PAN AM TEAM The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) announced the nomination of the following athlete-and-horse combinations to the U.S. Eventing

FERNHILL FINISHES Anna Loschiavo of Bradford, VT, competed at the Green Mountain Horse Association June Horse Trials with success.

She rode Fernhill Dragonfly to the win in Open Preliminary, finishing with a 33.6, and followed up with Fernhill Turbo in twelfth. Fernhill Hole Shot made his Training Level debut and finished on his dressage score of 25 to take first with Loschiavo in Open Training-B. WATER’S EDGE WINNERS The Groton House Farm Summer Classic fared well for the team from Water’s Edge Farm in Concord, MA. Charlotte Bain and Aim High won Junior Beginner Novice-A with their dressage score of 28.5, while Alyssa MacBeth and Tanager Hill had a great showing to finish sixth in Senior Beginner Novice-C. Kate Fletcher and Lil’ Debbie won Senior Elemen-

tary-A, finishing on their dressage score of 32.8, and Mirabella Coe rode Huckleberry to fifth in Junior Elementary-A in their first outing together.

BEST AT BROMONT White River Junction, VT, native Kylie Lyman rode in the USEF/ United States Equestrian Team Foundation North American Team Challenge at the Bromont CCI Three-Day Event in Canada to help bring Eventing Director of High Performance Erik Duvander’s team to the win. Alongside Allie Knowles of Kentucky, Kimmy Cecere of Florida, and Sydney Elliott of Louisiana, Lyman finished on her dressage score of 28.3 to win the CCI3*-L with Da Vinci Code, giving the team an edge.

Also from New England and competing at Bromont, Cornelia Dorr of Manchester-by-theSea, MA, rode Sir Patico MH to finish ninth in the CCI4*-L.

Eventing contact listings Apple Knoll Farm (tsl) 25 Forest Lane Millis, MA 02054 msamberfrog@me.com b=breeding, t=training, s=sales, l=lessons Call 800-742-9171 if you would like to be featured in our Eventing Contact Listings

August 2019

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eventing

[ EQUINE JOURNAL AFFILIATE ]

Connecticut Dressage & Combined Training Association Spotlight on Volunteers ARTICLE SUBMITTED BY CHRISSY CAPACCHIONE; PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARYANN SMITH

are also dependent on their volunteers, board members, and officers to stay afloat. Our board is passionately dedicated to keeping CDCTA alive and well for many years to come.

We strive to provide welcoming, educational, and affordable opportunities for both our members and non-members.

Without volunteers, CDCTA, would not be able to exist, along with many other small clubs.

This leaves fewer options for schooling shows, clinics, and Asher Woods helping assemble dressage rings for Connecticut Dressage & Combined Training Associaseminars. tion’s May Dressage and Combined Test Schooling This year we have had a Show. wonderful turnout of folks giving tude to any situation. She works hard to us their time to volunteer. Many ensure that our shows run smoothly and is hands make light work. We would like to always concerned about making the expethank everyone who has given their time rience the best it can be for participants. in any way, shape, or form to the club so If you haven’t tried volunteering, give far this year. Please know that your time is truly valued and appreciated by CDCTA. it a chance. Experience the positivity that local clubs bring into our members’ Currently the club is looking for members lives. See what goes into keeping your to join the board. Consider volunteering sport or hobby alive. Socialize, make your time at an event or by becoming a friends, network, and find a place in the board member. world where you can enjoy life. Then give In addition, this month we would like someone else that opportunity by volunto give special recognition to Kathy Ross, teering to keep the opportunity alive, like our show secretary and board member. those before you.

Kathy always brings a warm, positive atti-

Will Coleman Captures Inaugural Advanced Division At MARS Essex Horse Trials IT WAS A WEEKEND OF HORSEPOWER at the third edition of the MARS Essex Horse Trials at historic Moorland Farm in Far Hills, NJ, with more than 5,000 in attendance. U.S. Olympic veteran Will Coleman rode his longtime partner, Obos O’Reilly, to the win in the Advanced division. Coleman finished 64

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cross-country with no jumping and 6.40 time penalties for a three-phase score of 42.10 penalties on his 16-year-old Irish Sport Horse.

“My horse is like an old shoe. He just feels comfortable and familiar.

He’s been with me since he was four years old. He’s been a wonderful horse

for me and it’s great for him to get the win,” said Coleman. “It’s my first time competing here. I thought the event was wonderful. It has everything you want in a marquee event. It’s got atmosphere, a great cross-country course, a beautiful turf and great going. I think it’s wonderful to go full circle back to this area and I hope it can continue for a long time to come. It’s such a special event.”

Following Thursday and Friday’s heavy rains, course designer Morgan Rowsell shortened the cross-country

continued on page 65

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PHOTOS: (ABOVE) I{MPACK}T STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY; (BELOW) UNITED STATES EVENTING ASSOCIATION/KATE LOKEY

MOST PEOPLE WHO VOLUNTEER have different reasons for doing so.

Sometimes the organization has given them a sense of community, a place to belong with other people who share similar interests and hobbies. In turn, they develop new friendships and find an escape from the chaotic world outside.

By nurturing the organization or club, it gives back to the volunteer, providing a safe place to be one’s self, opportunity to socialize with other like-minded individuals, and giving others the chance to experience the community in the same positive light they have are all rewards of volunteering.

Did you know that the Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event has approximately 2,000 volunteers? All are a vital part in keeping the competition alive.

Without them the Land Rover event would not be possible. Even though the Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event is on a largely different playing field from what most of us are used to, it still requires the help and generosity of volunteers to maintain its pulse in the eventing world.

If such a well-respected event requires a small army of volunteers to give it life, then it’s not surprising that smaller clubs such as the Connecticut Dressage & Combined Training Association (CDCTA)

eventing

Will Coleman Captures Inaugural Advanced Division continued from page 64

course to 19 fences to ensure optimum conditions for the competitors. “The course rode great,” said Coleman. “I think Morgan did an excellent job with the tracks and I think he deserves a lot of the credit.”

Missy Miller and Quinn catapulted from thirtyth place in the Advanced Division dressage to second with a final score of 59.80 penalties. “It was such a great weekend. I love the Horse Trials here, they do such a great job,” said Miller. “My horse tried really hard all weekend. He is amazing. The

course rode really well, the striding was great along with the combinations. It is such a beautiful venue. I love to compete here.”

Local rider Megan Kepferle of Long Valley, NJ, was third riding Anakin with an overall score of 61.50 penalties.

Finishing fourth was Canadian Olympic veteran Jessica Phoenix with a score of 62.90 on Watson GS.

Olympic Veteran Will Coleman won the Inaugural Advanced division at the MARS Essex Horse Trials.

Auburn University claims the Championship title for the second year in a row.

PHOTOS: (ABOVE) I{MPACK}T STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY; (BELOW) UNITED STATES EVENTING ASSOCIATION/KATE LOKEY

Defending Champions Reclaim Their Victory As United States Eventing Association Intercollegiate Eventing Champions THE OVERNIGHT LEADERS AND 2018 defending champions have maintained their lead to take the title once again. Auburn University Orange team led the first day on a cumulative 92.601 in their respective novice and training level divisions, and they managed to jump clear on the second day to remain on their overnight score, reclaiming their victory for 2019.

The 2019 United States Eventing Association Intercollegiate Eventing

Championship, held at Chattahoochee Hills in Fairburn, GA, had a total of 86 horses representing 16 schools with 22 teams from 10 states at the beginner novice through preliminary levels. The competitors showed up to the Championship loud and proud, showing off their school spirit and ready for a weekend full of healthy competition.

The 2019 Champions on Auburn University Orange consisted of Isabel Franklin and Anchorman in the Novice

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Level, Sallie Johnson and Things To Ponder in the Training Level, Dorothy Dreelin and Subtle Dream Unveiled as at the Novice Level, and Aubrey Wagner and Fernhill Sinatra in Training. The Novice Level riders finished their weekend with crosscountry, while the Training Level riders completed show jumping, each needing to put in successful rounds to maintain their overnight lead.

The University of Kentucky (UK) claimed both the Reserve Champion title and the third place spot with their Blue and Wildcats teams. The UK Blue team ended the weekend on a cumulative 97.857, just 5.256 points behind the Champion team. The UK Blue team consisted of Macy Clark and Mimi’s Musical at the Novice Level, Jackie LeMastus and Lup The Lupe in Training, Elizabeth Silvia-Chandley and Kontiki in Novice, and Mia Fox and Sport Tracker in the Preliminary Level.

The third place UK Wildcats team was made up of Jackie Lemastus and Exmoor Denver in Preliminary, Katelyn Hagerty and Dutch Harbor in Training, Clair Rowlands and Category 5 at the Preliminary Level, and Cora Severs and Cuervo in Training. The Wildcats finished the weekend up on a 102.875.

Off by only one point, the UK Wildcats team took second for the coveted Spirit Award. After being neck and neck all weekend, it was the Texas A&M team that stole the title this year.

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Send your news for future columns to kelley.roche@equinejournal.com.

BY KELLEY ROCHE

Dressage news

[ABOVE] The Dutta Corp. U.S. Dressage Team finished third out of seven at the FEI Dressage Nations Cup France. [LEFT] Grand Prix powerhouse Devon L has retired from competition.

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Equestrian Center, in Burbank, CA. Region 8 will have their Championships September 17-20 at HITS on the Hudson, in Saugerties, NY.

SUCCESSFUL SHOWING The team from Colleen O’Connor-Dzik Dressage of Harvard, MA, had a great time at the Mystic Valley Hunt Club Dressage Show held June 7-9 in Gales Ferry, CT. Congratulations to Wendy Zarrella and Noah De Luxe on their very first show together, they came in second on Friday in First Level Test 3 and came back stronger on Saturday with a score of 69% in the same class and ended up reserve highpoint rider of the day for Adult Amateur. Sarah Gill D’Orazio and Retador SG attended their second show, received first on 60.41% in Fourth Level Test 3, and also placed second in the same class the following day with 58.472%. Renee Suprenant and Touch of Rum rode in the FEI Test of Choice and exited with a score of 60.515%, followed by riding

to 59.412% in the FEI Prix St. Georges-Stakes on Saturday.

Great job ladies!

MICHAEL MANIA Michael Bragdell, trainer at Hilltop Farm, Inc. in Colora, MD, had his hands full with impressive rides at the Virginia Summer Dressage Show in Culpepper, VA, June 14-15.

Lara and Mitch Mitchelson’s Steinbeck HTF came in third and second in the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Four-Year-Old tests with a 74.40% and 66.64%, respectively. The Mitchelson’s Faberge Blue was a show pro and won the FEI Intermediate II class on a 63.235% and the USEF Developing Grand Prix on a score of 63.375%.

After only a couple of months of training together, Bragdell and Howard and Lisa Smith’s Hanoverian stallion, Frisantos, quickly formed a strong partnership, winning the First Level Test 3 with a 69.44% and the FEI Young Horse Five-Year-Old Final on an impressive score of 77%.

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PHOTO: KARIE ALDERMAN OF KARIE ELIZEBETH PHOTOGRAPHY

RETIREMENT READY Following a stellar career with Canada’s Diane Creech and her daughter, Vanessa CreechTerauds, Leatherdale Farms’, of Long Lake, MN, 19-year-old Hanoverian gelding, Devon L has retired from high-performance dressage competition.

Well-known in their discipline for winning over 10 CDI U25 classes together, the pair made the trip to Pennsylvania for Dressage at Devon in 2018, where they were undefeated in their division. We wish Devon L a happy retirement!

DATES DECIDED The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) selected the dates and locations for the 2020 Great American Insurance Group/USDF Regional Dressage Championships, presented by SmartPak. Region 1 Championships will be held October 8-11 at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, VA. Region 2 Championships will be September 17-20 at the Lamplight Equestrian Center in Wayne, IL. Regions 3, 4, and 9 Championships will be October 1-4.

Region 3 will be at the Florida Horse Park in Ocala, FL; Region 4 at the National Equestrian Center in Lake St. Louis, MO; and Region 9 at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center in Katy, TX. Region 5 Championships will be September 24-27 at the Colorado Horse Park in Parker, CO. September 3-6 will be the Region 6 Championships at the Devonwood Equestrian Center in Sherwood, OR. Region 7 will be held September 24-27 at the Los Angeles

PHOTOS: (LEFT) ANNAN HEPNER/PHELPS MEDIA GROUP; (ABOVE) PSV PHOTO

TEAM USA! After two days of strong performances at the 2019 FEI Dressage Nations Cup France, The Dutta Corp. U.S. Dressage Team, comprised of Katherine Bateson-Chandler, Heather Blitz, Shelly Francis, Nick Wagman, and led by U.S. Dressage Development Coach Charlotte Bredahl as Chef d’ Equipe for the Compiègne CDIO5*, finished third out of seven international teams with 51 points.

dressage The Adequan U.S. Para Dressage Team from left to right; Mary Jordan, Laurietta Oakleaf, Alanna Flax-Clark, and Chef d’ Equipe Regina Cristo.

The Adequan U.S. Para Dressage Team

PHOTOS: (LEFT) ANNAN HEPNER/PHELPS MEDIA GROUP; (ABOVE) PSV PHOTO

PHOTO: KARIE ALDERMAN OF KARIE ELIZEBETH PHOTOGRAPHY

Takes Silver at Caledon Spring Jubilee CPEDI3* THE ADEQUAN U.S. PARA Dressage Team of Mary Jordan, Alanna Flax-Clark, and Laurietta Oakleaf, led by Chef d’Equipe Regina Cristo earned a cumulative score of 183.275% after two days of competition, resulting in a second place finish behind Canada. Canada who narrowly bested the U.S., ended their team competition with a final score of 193.143% at the Caledon Spring Jubilee CPEDI3* on May 31 through June 1.

“I’m proud of how our riders persevered and finished their tests; we were here [Caledon Spring Jubilee] as a team,” said Chef d’Equipe Regina Cristo. “There were many lovely movements in each test, and it was good to see improvements from all our riders. It’s a big commitment for these riders to sign up, travel, and have a team represent. Overall, it was a real delight to be here and would love to be invited back again for a team competition.”

The competition began on Friday with the Team Tests in their respective Grades, counting 50% towards the overall team score. Grade V paraathlete Mary Jordan of Wells, ME, and her own Rubicon 75, a 14-yearold Oldenburg gelding, earned a 62.829% for second place in Grade V. Saturday’s Individual test earned the duo a 54.960%. This was Jordan and Rubicon 75’s first outing since the FEI

World Equestrian Games Tryon 2018 Test Event CPEDI3* in April 2018.

Riding in Grade II, Alanna FlaxClark from Granada Hills, CA, and El Paso, her 15-yearold NRPS gelding, earned a 67.576% in the Team Test to take first place.

Riding high on Friday’s score, Flax-Clark and El Paso, lovingly called “Taco,” continued their winning ways in Saturday’s Individual Test with a 66.078%.

“The competition at Caledon Equestrian Park is going really well. My horse (El Paso) is fantastic, and we have progressed so much in our training since this winter,” said FlaxClark. “Yesterday [in Friday’s FEI Team test] we had a good, focused, forward ride that resulted well in the judges scores.

I tried to continue that focus on day two [Saturday’s FEI Individual Test], and we just went for it.

Noting their progression, FlaxClark praised Sara Schmitt for her support and training, “My trainer, Sara Schmitt, plays a huge role with our team. She keeps us in the right mindset so that we shine in the ring.”

Teammate Laurietta Oakleaf of Ocala, FL, who also rode in Grade II, with her 15-year-old Rhinelander mare Windsome, had an uncharacteristically slow start in Friday’s test earning a 55.354%. Oakleaf and Windsome’s Individual test on Saturday showed improvement, ending on a 59.755%. The Individual Tests counted 50% toward the overall team score.

The Caledon Spring Jubilee CPEDI3* concluded on Sunday with Flax-Clark competing as an individual in the Grade II Freestyle, where she earned a 69.611%.

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www.bridgewaterfarm.com August 2019

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Send your news for future columns to editorial@equinejournal.com.

BY LISA CENIS

Driving news

[LEFT] Chester Weber placed second in the Four-in-Hand competition at the Saumur CAIO4*. [ABOVE] Tanya Wheeler took home the blue in Training Division 1.

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third place, respectively. Finally, in the Preliminary Pony division, Diego Rubio won the division with Hilary Miskoe, Hana Poulin, and Lisa Brooks-Smets rounding out the field.

Rome 1998, and the Nations Cup in Breda. The obstacles designed by Jan in Pratone del Vivaro were used for the World Single Horse Championships in 2006.

Championship and Concours D’Elegance winner at Morven Park Pleasure Show, Arena Driving Trial, and Cross Country Pleasure Ride in Leesburg, VA, on June 14-16.

WORK IT WEBER Chester Weber, of Ocala FL, made his way with fellow U.S. competitors Lisa Stroud and Misdee Wrigley-Miller to Saumar, France for the Saumar CA104* held June 5-9. After placing second in dressage, third in marathon, and with a double clear round in cones, Weber placed second with a score of 150.72 in the Four-in-Hand competition.

STUNNING STAFFORD Stafford Carriage Driving had great drives at this year’s Connecticut Morgan Horse Association Horse Show, held at the Eastern States Exposition Center in West Springfield, MA, June 5-8. Ti’amo, driven by Suzy Stafford and owned by Debbie Zombek, took the overall Single Horse Championship win.

Stafford also drove Wendee DCTF for Susan Williams in the dressage arena to a score of 75%. Gail Aumiller and Sjaantje also had a successful show; taking home two championship ribbons, two-reserve championship ribbons, and finished on two strong dressage scores of 75% and 77.9%.

PARTNERSHIP ENDED After many months of concentrated effort, the Board of Directors of the American Driving Society, Inc. reached the conclusion that their role as affiliate is no longer in the best interests of the vast majority of their membership. Accordingly, the Board of Directors voted unanimously not to renew their Affiliate Agreement with the United Sates Equestrian Federation.

CONDOLENCES Jan Cornelissen, often referred to as the ‘Bridge Builder;’ a nickname that was inspired by the large bridges that he built on many international courses, passed away on June 2 at the age of 91. As an international ‘O’ course designer, Cornelissen designed courses of competitions such as the World Fourin-hand Championships in Den Haag 1994, Waregem 1996,

GO GLORIA! Congratulations to Gloria Burgess and Dr Tom on winning the Pair and Multiples

TOP SCORE The Elk Creek Combined Driving Event, held June 1-2 in Fair Hill, MD, proved to be a great event for driver Paula Bliss of Purcellville, VA. She and Fiona, owned by Ann Spurgas, scored a 47.15, or 70.5%, and won the Training Pony Single class. This was the top dressage score of the event.

PHOTOS: (ABOVE) LISA CENIS; (LEFT) ALAIN MARTIN/COURTESY OF CHLOE REID

WINNING WHEELER The Pickpocket Arena Driving Clinic located in Brentwood, NH, held its fourth annual event, and has become the go-to event for new drivers. At the first of three events scheduled for 2019, 14 very small equines (VSE)s, and 11 ponies and horses participated.

The Granite State Carriage Association was well represented with 10 members of the 25 participants. Congrats to Tanya Wheeler, who won training Division 1, followed by Marsha Cloutier and Melissa Every in second and third, respectively. In Division 2, Maggie Kenter won the class, followed closely by second place winner Caily Krans, Marjorie Palmer finished the top three for the class. Sue Lathrop won the Preliminary VSE division and Dot Rourke took second.

After a quick ring change to enlarge the dressage arena, Laurie Neely won the Training Pony division, followed by Anna Bigelow in second and Francine King placing third. In the Training Horse division, Susan Drover won the class with Ken Fiery and Denise Reed-Gagnon in second and

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driving

[ EQUINE JOURNAL AFFILIATE ] Larry Poulin instructing Jeff Morse at the Saratoga Driving Association clinic in June.

Saratoga Driving Association Hosts Larry Poulin Clinic ARTICLE AND PHOTO SUBMITTED BY CAROL FRANK

PHOTOS: (ABOVE) LISA CENIS; (LEFT) ALAIN MARTIN/COURTESY OF CHLOE REID

ON THE MOST PERFECT DAY, THE sun was shining just enough, a breeze was wafting about, and the temperature was just right, we had the most excellent clinic with Larry Poulin. Larry is a very schooled horseman and still works with his uncle, Olympian and trainer Michael Poulin. The Saratoga Driving Association has done it again, bringing you people to help you become the best.

For the under-saddle dressage riders, Larry talked a lot about unlocking the horse in all the places where they have resistance. He talked about his unfailing interest in going deeper with horses to discover new things. Despite his years at the sport, his interest has not wavered, and he continually learns more.

He urges riders to use your imagination to explore new ways and be free to try things and see if they work for you.

Beware of the traditional way, because it may not be the best way to get what you want, not a casual haphazard approach.

When he says use your imagination it doesn’t mean recreate the wheel, rather don’t be held back by limitations from old understandings. Maybe the answer will be found in trying to approach things differently.

In attendance where the regulars: Barbara Akers brought her new horse, Stormy; I drove my new pony, Lily Dale;

the muscles to hold the frame for long.

Melanie Michon captured on video the breakthough moment of the horse moving correctly, and Jeff summed it up as “awesome!” in an email after the clinic. Though Larry used headsets, which is great for the student, we could all see the changes in the horses. It was a good clinic for auditors, because lots of really good work was done.

King is now competing at the Intermediate Level, so Larry went through elements of the Intermediate level dressage tests for correct preparation and execution. They schooled through many elements, and Henry likely went home with a laundry list of finer points to train.

It takes a lot to get this sport right, but it’s important to appreciate the time spent with the horses as this never ceases to bring fulfillment. If you can’t ride or drive, you can always watch, and it is still wonderful.

Ingrid Nichols brought a pair from Vermont; Jeff Morse brought a horse given to him that was not going right; and Henry Tarryk brought his Morgan stallion, King. Each one of us came away with a bucket of things to consider, work on, improve, or a new lens to look through.

Jeff was delighted to have someone of Larry’s caliber to work with and Larry told me he was delighted to have a trainer like Jeff to work with. Together they worked on getting this ewe-necked Morgan to carry himself correctly, even though as Larry said, the horse did not have August 2019

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Send your news for future columns to kelley.roche@equinejournal.com.

BY KELLEY ROCHE

Western news

ROCKIN IT Originally from Sturbridge, MA, and now residing in Boston, GA, Kelley Carrington French and Jazzing Dreamer ran the barrels in a blazing 14.602 seconds to win the 1D and earn the Open Champion title at the Rockin A Arena Buckle Series in Palmyra, MI. Congrats Kelley!

Olivia Scileppi and Krymsunology took High-Point Champion in the Connecticut Quarter Horse Association Small Fry division.

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home Reserve High-Point Champion in American Quarter Horse Association Level 1 Youth Walk Trot and High Point Champion in the CQHA Small Fry division!

TAG TEAMED The Falls Creek Farm team

NEW TEAM Congratulations to Chris Gray of Chris Gray Performance Horses and Kip Riley for the

VYING IN VIRGINIA Summer Wind Farm, out of Damascus, MD, showed their stuff at the Virginia Reining Horse Association Memorial Day Classic held May 30 through June 2 at the Senator Bob Martin Agri Center in Williamston, NC. Tricia Tillman did a lot of riding at this show, including taking home Reserve Champion in the National Reining Horse Association Open class aboard John Wayne Tag for Louis Kousouris.

In the Novice Horse Open, Tillman made the top ten with two mounts on Friday; Mr Double Jac Boom placed sixth for owner Kimberly Tillman and Smart Sara Roos took seventh for owner Mike Riley.

In addition, Smart Sara Roos took fifth in Derby Level 2 on Saturday with Tillman, who also rode Mr Double Jac Boom to fourth place on Saturday in Novice Horse Open. Aboard Smart Wisdom, Tillman took seventh in the Novice Horse Level 2 on Friday and third in the Novice Horse Open Level 2 on Saturday.

Bob LaPorta and Quick Chic Wolverton took second in the Intermediate Open and the Limited Open classes on Friday. Paola Simi took third in Green Horse aboard A Mid Nite Special on Friday on a score of 63 and took eighth in Green Reiner Level 1. Mikki Evans rode her own Mr Kachina Chic to seventh in Green Reiner Level 1 and rode to a score of 63 in Green Reiner Level 2.

PHOTO: KELLEY ROCHE

SMALL FRY SCILEPPI Many riders made their way to the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, MA, for the Connecticut Quarter Horse Association (CQHA) Connecticut Classic, held June 12-16.

Shout out to Olivia Scileppi and Krymsunology for taking

RAINING RIBBONS The team from Gata Rein Ranch, located in Middletown, Orange County, NY, attended the Central New York Reining Horse Association Ride and Slide Show in Syracuse, NY, June 7-9. Trainer Bill Bowen placed first in Novice Horse Open Level 1 on Hollywood Wimpy Time for Mike Morganti and second in the Open class on Crome Plated Hotrod for Steve and Denise Santagata.

Also aboard Crome Plated Hotrod, Bowne tied for first on a score of 144 in the Novice Horse Open Level 2. Kristie Dahlen rode Jacs Quick Cash to first in the Rookie Level 1 and fourth in the Rookie Level 2 on Friday and won the same classes on Saturday with scores of 138!

purchase of the new prospect Sit Stil Look Pretty, aka Lexi, who was purchased from Sarah Rosciti of Rosciti Quarter Horses in North Scituate, RI. We look forward to seeing Riley and Lexi in the show ring next season!

| August 2019

7/8/19 8:09 PM

PHOTO: NATIONAL REINING HORSE ASSOCIATION

out of Oneco, CT, made their trip to the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association Redbud Spectacular held May 30 through June 9 at State Fair Park in Oklahoma City, OK, well worth it. Isabella Buckley and Roses Only took home five circuit championships, was the High-Point Youth Western winner, and took home the 13 & Under High Point All Around buckle.

western

[ EQUINE JOURNAL AFFILIATE ]

Interscholastic Equestrian Association Hosts Annual Western National Finals SUBMITTED BY KIMBER WHANGER

PHOTO: KELLEY ROCHE

PHOTO: NATIONAL REINING HORSE ASSOCIATION

INTERSCHOLASTIC EQUESTRIAN Association (IEA) hosted their 14th Annual IEA Western National Finals in Oklahoma City, OK, on June 15-16, 2019 during the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Derby at the Oklahoma State Fair Park. NRHA has been a longtime sponsor of IEA and the Derby location was a perfect backdrop for IEA National Finals, where IEA riders mingled with NRHA professionals and world-class horses. Over the course of two days, riders in grades 6-12 from across the nation competed for national championship titles in western horsemanship and reining as both individual riders and for their teams. The IEA uses a drawbased format for competition, whereby riders randomly select the horse(s) they competed on just minutes before entering the show arena with no warm-up.

Saturday morning kicked off the competition with individual reining classes, followed by horsemanship individual classes. Rising to the top of the competition for an unprecedented third year was senior, Ellexxah Maxwell of Autumn Rose Equestrian, Region 5-2, who won both the Varsity Open Horsemanship and Varsity Open Reining classes to be named the 2019 IEA Leading Western Rider. Maxwell also won this title in 2016 as a freshman, as well as in 2018. She received a total of $2,250 in senior scholarship money from IEA for her accomplishments. Maxwell is coached by Debbie and Ollie Griffith of Dublin, OH.

In addition to the Leading Western Rider award, IEA also presented the IEA Cross-Over Rider award on Saturday to Jordan Martin of Team Need A Hand, Region 4. Martin was the highest placing IEA rider to compete at both Hunt Seat and Western National Finals.

Sunday’s competition saw 24 qualifying teams competing in the team portion of IEA Western National Finals. The air was tense with excitement as riders and coaches kept tally of class points after each team class. Ultimately coming out on top of the team competition for both the Middle School and Upper School was Autumn Rose Equestrian. A highly successful team with multiple team wins the past three years, Autumn Rose Coach Debbie Griffith noted, “IEA makes them amazing riders. We’ve been really successful, and the kids work so hard.

They put in a lot of time and a lot of hours in the barn.”

Winning the Reserve Champion Upper School Team top honors was the Grier School out of Tyrone, PA, and coached by Chris McElyea. The Grier School is consistently in the top rankings and is one of the teams that competes in all three IEA disciplines—western, hunt seat, and dressage. Taking home the Reserve Champion Middle School Team trophy was TMC Too from Cuba, NY, coached by Michael and Tonya Cooper. The Coopers had two teams qualify for Western National Finals, TMC Equestrian and TMC Too. Together the teams won the Team Spirit Award.

National Reined Cow Horse Association Derby Champions Crowned A THRILLING DAY OF REINED COW horse action on Saturday, June 15, wrapped up the main event at

the National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) Jack and Phoebe Cooke Memorial Derby, presented

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Ellexxah Maxwell of Autumn Rose Farm was named the 2019 Interscholastic Equestrian Association Leading Western Rider for a third year in a row.

The IEA holds sportsmanship in the highest regard and places importance on the conduct of both its riders and coaches throughout the regular season as well as post season competitions. Winning the NRHA Rider Sportsmanship Award was 14-year-old Jenna Woody, who rides with Flamekissed Equestrian. She has competed in IEA for three years. “There’s just a bunch of people you get to meet and make a bunch of new friends. I just enjoy being with people. I’m an extrovert, and I just love rooting on my friends,” she said.

“IEA is awesome. It really has helped me.”

The NRHA Coach Sportsmanship Award was presented to Linda Dare of Dare Equestrian, Region 5-2. Dare has been an IEA coach since the organization’s inaugural year in 2002. She is also the mother of NRHA Reining Professional, Trevor Dare, who was IEA’s first Leading Western Rider in 2006.

by Cats Picasso. This is one of the most well-known events for four- and five- year-old reined cow horses.

Shown two-handed in a snaffle bit or a hackamore, horses are judged in three preliminary events: rein work, herd work, and cow work. Open and non-pro riders took center stage at the Paso Robles Event Center, in Paso Robles, CA. The top combined score rode away with the prestigious NRCHA Derby Champion title and a share of more than $340,000.

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western

National Reined Cow Horse Association Derby continued from page 71

DERBY OPEN CHAMPION While Clayton Edsall has many championship titles under his belt, winning the NRCHA Jack and Phoebe Cooke Memorial Derby was a first. The NRCHA professional from Oakdale, CA, rode Bet He Sparks, a five-year-old gelding owned

by K & L Phillips LLC, to a 220 in the herd work, a 219.5 in the rein work, and a 222 in the fence work.

In addition to the hefty $30,173 payday, the team also received a DC Cow Horse Gear saddle, Gist Silversmiths buckle, boots by Lucchese, a Platinum Performance gift certificate, and products from UltraCruz. Metallic Freckle and Tucker Robinson were reserve champions and earned $22,834 for owner Anna Lisa Luna.

DERBY INTERMEDIATE OPEN CHAMPION Claiming the Derby Intermediate Open win was Kyle Trahern aboard Peptos Stylin Time, a four-year-old stallion

owned by Peptos LLC. Trahern, from Saratoga, WY, earned $9,718 for his 653.5 composite score after earning a 214.5 in herd, a 219.5 in rein work, and a 219.5 in cow work.

Red Hotz and Jordan Williams earned the Reserve Intermediate Open championship and $7,475 for owners Wes and Sarah Williams.

DERBY LIMITED OPEN CHAMPION Horse shows have always been a family affair for the Fishers, and this week was no exception. Wyatt Fisher, of Nipomo, CA, guided his parents, Jayson and Teresa Fisher’s, TravalinOnMoonshine to a 637 composite,

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Kyle Trahern aboard Peptos Stylin Time claimed the Derby Intermediate Open win.

after earning 212.5 in herd work, 212.5 in rein work, and 212 in cow work. The win was accompanied with a $6,796 paycheck.

Mc CowHammer and Trevor Carter took the Limited Open reserve championship and $4,077 home to New Mexico for owner Bogle Brothers LLC. DERBY NON PRO CHAMPION This year, Hope Miller captured her second NRCHA Jack and Phoebe Cooke Memorial Derby Non Pro championship title.

The non-pro from Washington piloted Sparking Metallic to a 652 composite in the clean-slate finals. Miller led

the herd work finals with a 219, then took the top score in the rein work finals with a 221.5. Her 211.5 fence work sealed the deal on the win and $7,495.

Finishing reserve in the Non Pro Derby was Debbie Crafton aboard A Quick Remedy, earning $5,996.

DERBY INTERMEDIATE NON PRO CHAMPION Kathy Wilson and Ima Prizcee Hickory were crowned the Intermediate Non Pro champions. Wilson piloted her four-yearold gelding to a 209 in the herd work, 213.5 in the rein work, and 219.5 down the fence. The 642 composite earned the California non-pro $3,459.

DERBY NOVICE NON PRO CHAMPION Thanks to a 640 composite, Mandy Lizama and San Master Peppy rode away with the Novice Non Pro champion and Intermediate Non Pro reserve champion titles. The non-pro competitor from Stevinson, CA, scored a 213 in the herd work, 211 in the reining, and 216 in the cow work, earning more than $4,200 in the finals. Auspicious Storm and Lori Conrow claimed reserve and $1,153 in earnings.

PHOTOS: PRIMO PHOTOGRAPHY

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Hope Miller captured her second National Reined Cow Horse Association Jack and Phoebe Cooke Memorial Derby Non Pro championship title.

| August 2019

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affiliates [ EQUINE JOURNAL AFFILIATE ] Bridle Brook Barns hosted a joint clinic with the Northeast Friesian Horse Club at their gorgeous barn in Marlborough, CT.

Northeast Friesian Horse Club European Clinicians Focused on Friesians

PHOTO: REBECCA WILDSTEIN

SUBMITTED BY KATE COOK

THIS SUMMER, GRAND PRIX dressage rider Hanneke Ariens and top Friesian breeder Fleur Van Kempen flew in from Europe as the headline clinicians at Bridle Brook Barns in Marlborough, CT. Bridle Brook is a stunning farm in central Connecticut, with a focus on breeding Friesians for driving, dressage, and pleasure riding. This was the second of this year’s top-rated clinics and education events co-sponsored by the Northeast Friesian Horse Club (NEFHC).

A broad array of riders and auditors, spanning from Training Level to Fourth Level, were in attendance and worked on fine-tuning their dressage skills during the two-day clinic.

The outcomes were evident in the improvements realized after each lesson.

Attendees especially appreciated the opportunity to get input from another Friesian trainer who really understands and appreciates the breed.

Rebecca Eccard, a trainer with Elite Equine Enterprises in New Hampshire, commented, “It was such a wonderful tool to have someone who, one, knows the sport and, two, knows and appreciates the breed and has tools to make what is usually hard for them easier. Normally when I attend a clinic, I hear a lot of what Friesians cannot do. It was so refreshing to hear what exercises I can use to allow my

scheduled for August 23–25 in West Springfield, MA, at the Eastern States Exposition Center. This is also the Region 1 IFSHA Championship show.

Despite some early confusion in the schedule posted on the USEF website, this is the one and only Region 1 IFSHA Championship show!

There will be riding and driving divisions for the Friesian, Friesian cross, Gypsy, Morgan, Saddlebred, Dutch harness breeds, as well as multiple open breed classes—there is truly something for everyone at all levels.

Academy classes will also be offered at this show. To find more show information, visit the “Horse Shows” on our website, nefhc.com, or contact Show Manager John Lampropaulos with questions.

Check back frequently for more events across the northeast to be announced on the club’s Facebook page or check out our website for further details and updates.

horses to understand the movements I am asking them to perform.”

Look for future events at Bridle Brook Barns on their Facebook page, where you can also browse their extensive selection of imported and Bridle Brookbred Friesians for sale. Who knows, maybe your next show partner is there waiting for you!

In other news, it’s show time and there’s still time to show with the NEFHC! The club’s second show of the season is just around the corner.

The premiere of the Midnight Summer Classic Horse Show, which is United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Visit www.equinejournal.com for details. and International Friesian Show Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc. Horse Association (IFSHA) rated, is

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August 2019

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Appleton Manor

New Ipswich, New Hampshire



  

Located in a quaint village setting along the MA border, Appleton Manor is a delight to the senses inside and out. The 13-acre farm offers an exquisite country lifestyle for the serious equestrian with its 19th century barn redesigned in the 1980’s for carriage horses with the original straight stalls preserved and the addition of up to 7 boxstalls. There are loafing sheds with access to grass turnout, equipment bays, 1st or 2nd level hay and bedding storage options, large outdoor arena, pasture and a separate gated driveway for deliveries and your horse trailer. 

The residence is architecturally stunning with a center hall w/curved staircase, Mansard roof affording fine guest quarters on the 3rd level, and entertainment-sized rooms. There’s detached space for the professional’s office, a 4-bay heated garage, inviting pool, bass pond, & wildlife meadow. Come experience all this farm has to offer.

Well priced at $899,000



 74

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      Corn Hill Farm

SOLD!

    

              

Hidden Acres Farm

SOLD!

                

Old Town Farm

           

SOLD!

   

Snow Moon Farm

               

LOOKING TO SELL?

      



 



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DIRECTORIES ARABIANS

ARENA MAINTENANCE

FOLLOW US

BARNS/ARENA CONSTRUCTION & CONTRACTORS

BEDDING & FEEDING

White Horse Construction SHAVINGS/SAWDUST Bulk Kiln Dry/Green Bagged Shavings Farm, Landscape & Pet Products

BARNS • GARAGES • RENOVATIONS The Distinction is in the Details

(610) 593-5559

www.WhiteHorseConstructionPA.com

1000F

1250K

1500H

Trucking -

Live Floor Trailers/Vans Delivery throughout New England, NY, PA 1000 Plymouth St., Rte. 104 Bridgewater, MA 02324 508-697-0357 or 800-665-9328 www.bridgewaterfarm.com

2000S

DRESSAGE

Twin Ridge Farm We are a complete and caring horse facility offering…

Crossen Arabians LLC Breeders of National quality Purebred and Half-Arabian Sport horses and Western Pleasure type individuals.

✶ boarding boarding ✶ coaching leasing ✶ lessons lessons ✶ leasing clinics ✶ training sales ✶ clinics ✶ training Jeri Nieder

BARNS/ARENA CONSTRUCTION & CONTRACTORS

USDF Bronze Medal, USEF”r” Jeri Nieder - USDF Bronze Medal and “r”Judge

603-456-3031 603-456-3031 ✶ 603-456-2354

Warner, NH jnieder@mcttelecom.com jnattrf@gmail.com 223 Pumpkin Hill Rd. ✶ Warner, N.H. 03278 www.twinridgefarm.net Crossen Arabians and Warmbloods Tom and Susan Crossen • 860-742-6486

www.CrossenArabians.com

APPAREL & SUPPLIES

Jodi Pearson-Keating Classical Dressage

Horse Stalls - Flooring - Barn Doors Windows - Fans - Lighting

Training for all Levels of Horses & Riders Stony Brook Farm Ƈ 28 Longmeadow Rd. Ƈ Norfolk, MA

USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist

Jodi is available for clinics and coaching.

Trailer-in lesssons welcome.

Boarding Available.

www.classic-equine.com (800)-444-7430

jodipearsonkeating.com jodi@jodipearsonkeating.com 508-797-8451

SHARE YOUR BUSINESS TODAY! 508-987-5886 76

EQUINE JOURNAL

Barbara Ann Archer

USDF Bronze & Silver Medalist

714 Snipatuit Road Rochester, MA Tel: 508.763.8038

Teaching, Training, Boarding, Indoor Riding Arena www.dressageatfairfieldfarm.com

| August 2019

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DIRECTORIES FARM EQUIPMENT

FENCING

INSURANCE

Equine 2016:Equine

PHOTOGRAPHY

04/16/18

Be a member.

Not just a number.

CheshireHorse.com English & Western Tack Apparel & Footwear Show Clothing Horse Clothing Gifts, Books, DVDs Feed & Supplements Pet Food & Supplies Stable Supplies Fencing Trailers

Noble Equestrian Ashley Performance Shirt

THE CHESHIRE HORSE

Offering Home, Auto, Business and Farm Insurance in VT & NH

(800) 639-4017 www.co-opinsurance.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

SADDLE FITTING

8 Whittemore Farm Rd, Swanzey, NH, 877-358-3001

SHARE YOUR BUSINESS TODAY! 508-987-5886

GYPSY HORSE

5 Demanche St. Nashua, NH 03060

Saddle Fitting More than 30 Years Experience

F Fitting All Makes F Travel to Your Barn F All Saddle Repairs

(including converting foam panels to wool)

F Representing: • DUETT Saddles - For Wide Horses • WOW Saddles - Custom in Minutes not Months

Colin Kimball-Davis

508-397-3800

FENCING

ckimballdavis@earthlink.net

CALL NOW 508-987-5886 Since 1987

WHOLESALE & RETAIL

INSURANCE

SALES AND LEASING

wholesalefence@pcfreemail.com eschfence@gmail.com

Strain Family Horse Farm

For him the Safest Fence….. for you a Lifetime Warranty.

New England’s Largest Quality Sales Stable

“A Good Fence Makes a Good Neighbor”

866-857-1676 610.857.1676

est. 1967

We Buy Horses and Accept Trade-Ins

Consignments Welcome at No Charge All Horses Sold with 3 Week Exchange Guarantee

https://allhorsefence.com Since 1984 – Made in USA Our UltraGuard Vinyl Horse Fence – Where beauty and function bring horse, fence, and property together. Also available*EasySnap Vinyl Electric Insulators* *PW Equus HDPE Black, Redwood Fencing*

Horse Farm Consulting

1-800-838-3092

Saddle Shop Horse Transportation

Granby, CT

860.653.3275

strainfamilyhorsefarm.com August 2019

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DIRECTORIES

CLASSIFIEDS

SALES AND LEASING

REAL ESTATE

**** MOTIVATED SELLER ****

“Horse Capital of the East” New loads of horses in from the west weekly Top Quality Western & English Performance Horses…..Sold with Guarantee Castleton, VT 802 468 2449 www.pondhillranch.com

BAROQUE HORSE STORE As Seen in Movies & TV Series!

Income producing equestrian facility consisting of 100+ acres which offers possibilities for development. This horse boarding facility was erected in 2003. It boasts a 21 stall stable and 70ft x 160ft indoor riding arena, all wood construction and shingled roof. All supported on a full frost wall foundation. Stalls are 12ft x 12ft,

www.BAROQUEHORSESTORE.com Unique Riding Equipment; Traditional, Fantasy, Reenactment, Medieval, World Heritage, Show.

bhs@mcn.org 707-937-2133 after 10am, PST, CA. USA

fully rubber matted with automatic heated drinking water. There is a 48ft x 100ft loft for hay storage (stores approx. 2000 standard bales of hay)

CALL NOW 508-987-5886

and tack trunk storage. The lounge offers bathroom, kitchenette climate controlled. Tack room has 21 spacious lockers. Well light wash area and 1500watt heater for cold weather. Outdoor

TRAILERS

space has 9 individual turn-out paddocks and 100ft x 200ft outdoor space. Majority of remaining property is wooded with wide riding trails or cross-country course. Also included is a colonial farm house circa 1810. Home needs exterior and interior cosmetic work and TLC. Contact Lis Real Estate at 413-831-6612 or 413-537-7410

THERAPEUTIC SERVICES FOR HORSES & HUMANS

PEMF THERAPY-PMT MASSAGE Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Coaching and Counseling. CONTACT: Julie Baker, 913-396-8064.

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AD INDEX Abacus Sports Installations, Ltd........................37 Absorbine/WF Young Inc ���������������������������������������9 Apple Knoll Farm......................................................52 Arena Works...............................................................12 Back On Track..............................................................3 Big Bale Buddy..........................................................47 Blue Seal......................................................................17 Blue Seal Dealers.....................................................20 Bridgewater Supply................................................67 Carriage Shed, The...................................................15 Cheshire Horse..........................................................12 Classic Equine Equipment �����������������������������������23 Equibrand....................................................................27 Equine Affaire....................................................10, 11 EQyss Grooming Products..Inside Front Cover Farm Credit.................................................................74 Farms And Barns..............................................74, 75 Feathered Horse Classic ���������������������������������������43 HITS................................................................................49 Intrepid International.....................................14, 57 JM Saddler...................................................................44 Jug Waterers...............................................................52 Legends Horse Feed...............................................29 Little River Friesians LLC ����������������������������������� 4, 5 Mid Atlantic Triply Ceilings..................................25 MSPCA at Nevins Farm..........................................59 New England Equitation Finals...........................2 Newport Polo.............................................................55 Norfolk Hunt Club....................................................51 Nutrena......................................................Back Cover PhotoArt By Jill..........................Inside Back Cover Polysols Inc./GGT Footing.....................................33 Precise Buildings, LLC............................................52 Priefert Ranch Equipment...................................19 Pro Fence.....................................................................37 Pyranha Inc.................................................................44 Reveal 4-N-1, LLC.....................................................47 SmartPak Equine......................................................13 Spalding Laboratories..............................................1 Springfield Fence.....................................................62 US Hunter Jumper Association.............................7 Vetericyn......................................................................25 White Horse Construction �����������������������������������37

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EVENT LISTINGS

AUGUST 04 | BSTRA LAKE DENNISON PLEASURE RIDE, Royalston, MA. CONTACT: Becky, bstra@charter.net, 508-476-7094.

30–09/01 | THE MYOPIA HORSE SHOW, Hamilton, MA. CONTACT: myopiahunt.org.

04 | CTRA SALMON BROOK RIDE, Granby, CT. CONTACT: Lynn Gogoyla, 860-425-9092.

30-09/02 | CTRA LABOR DAY WEEKEND AT CAMP BOARDMAN, Goshen, CT. CONTACT: cttrailridesassoc.org.

07 | NORTH BRIDGE EQUINE JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis, MA. CONTACT: appleknoll. com.

31–09/01 | TWO DAY STADIUM & CROSS-COUNTRY CLINIC WITH ADRIENNE IORIO, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis, MA. CONTACT: Olivia Wolfe, oliviawolfe1196@gmail.com, 860-367-2197.

10-11 | CTRA AUCTION AND BARBECUE, Camp Boardman, Goshen, CT. CONTACT: Shirely and Dennis McClary, 203-982-8219.

14 | NORTH BRIDGE EQUINE JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis, MA. CONTACT: appleknoll. com.

18 | AREA 1 SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS CHAMPIONSHIPS, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis, MA. CONTACT: appleknoll. com.

Farm, Millis, MA. CONTACT: appleknoll.com.

15 | BSTRA FALL HUNTER PACE, LOCATION TBD. CONTACT: Sharron, hiddenhollowacres@comcast.net, 413-6687606.

15 | CTRA MEMBERS ONLY BLUFF POINT STATE PARK RIDE, Groton, CT. CONTACT: Ruth Strontzer, 860-345-2954 or 475-238-5887.

21 | APPLE KNOLL FARM USEA

SEPTEMBER

HORSE TRIALS, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis, MA. CONTACT: appleknoll.com.

22 | BSTRA FALL FUNDRAISER

08/30-02 | CTRA LABOR DAY WEEKEND AT CAMP BOARDMAN, Goshen, CT. CONTACT: cttrailridesassoc. org.

04 | NORTH BRIDGE EQUINE JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis, MA. CONTACT: appleknoll. com.

PLEASURE RIDE, N. Scituate, RI. CONTACT: Lynn, lynnparesky@aol.com, 508-476-7094.

22 | CTRA MEMBERS ONLY RORABACK WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA TRAIL RIDE, Harwinton, CT. CONTACT: Vevette Greenberg, 203-5061183.

21 | NORTH BRIDGE EQUINE JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis, MA. CONTACT: appleknoll.com.

08 | CTRA LOWER SALMON RIVER TRAIL RIDE, East Hampton, CT. CONTACT: Peggy Robinson, 860-309-0673.

25 | CTRA MEMBERS ONLY STEEP ROCK RIDE, Washington Depot, CT. CONTACT: Lynn Gogoyla, 860-485-9092.

08 | NHDEA FALL DRESSAGE SHOW, UNH Showgrounds, Durham, NH. CONTACT: Carol Ann Head, carolannhead@ gmail.com, nhdea.org.

28 | NORTH BRIDGE EQUINE JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis, MA. CONTACT: appleknoll.com.

11 | NORTH BRIDGE EQUINE JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll

28 | BSTRA NORTHFIELD MT. PLEASURE RIDE, Northfield, MA. CONTACT: Rose, rzariczny@verizon.net, 401-4873190.

28-29 | CTRA ANNUAL BOARDMAN MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND, Camp Boardman, Goshen, CT. CONTACT: cttrailrideassoc.org.

Equine Journal (ISSN # 10675884) is published monthly by MCC Magazines, LLC, 735 Broad Street, Augusta, GA 30901. Subscription rate is $19.95 per year. Editorial and Advertising offices are located at P.O. Box 386 Oxford, MA 01540. Periodicals Postage Paid at Augusta, GA and additional offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Equine Journal, PO Box 433237, Palm Coast, FL 32143-9616. Submission of freelance articles, photographs and artwork are welcome. Please write for editorial guidelines if submitting for the first time and enclose SASE. No faxed materials accepted. Articles that appear in Equine Journal do not necessarily reflect the position or opinion of Equine Journal or MCC Magazines, LLC. Equine Journal does not endorse and is not responsible for the contents of any advertisement in this publication. No material from Equine Journal may be copied, faxed, electronically transmitted or otherwise used without express written permission.

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LAST GLANCE

“Summer’s lease hath all too short a date.”

PHOTO: ISTOCK.COM/CALLIPSO

– William Shakespeare

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PhotoArt By Jill Life’s Events • Film • Video • Books

Samson Valliere

Photojournalism at its finest!

Jilluann Martin-Valliere

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561-719-8624

www.photoartbyjill.com

7/12/19 7/9/19 3:34 9:32 PM AM

S:7”

S:10”

We know what it takes to provide the balanced nutrients your horses rely on to look and feel their best. It comes down to what’s inside the feed.

That’s why our SafeChoice® products are leading the controlled-starch market. It’s also why we’re always working to stay ahead of the curve on equine nutrition and topline health. Because the two go hoof in hoof.

VISIT TOPLINEBALANCE.COM TO TAKE OUR TOPLINE ASSESSMENT. © 2019 Cargill, Incorporated. All rights reserved.

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T:10.75”

Nutrition you can count on for healthy, happy horses.