Eiðfaxi International - 01/2021 by Eiðfaxi frá Íslandi

INTERNATIONAL 1 - 2021

Table of contents 4 6

A letter from the editor Priviledged to know these geniuses

Árni Björn Pálsson

14 Is The National Breeding show a future event? 30 Young rider of the year 2020 32 Gæðingarider of the year 2020 36 Sport rider of the year 2020 40 Pace rider of the year 2020 44 Breeding rider of the year 2020 46 The rider of year 2020 52 Speaking the same language 64 An ambitious young rider 66 I am actually rather shy Hafliði Halldórsson celebrates 60 years 86 The Breeding Day 92 Landsmót 96 Magical tours with Gestur at Kálfhóll Farm

EIÐFAXI INTERNATIONAL – 1/2021 Published by: Eiðfaxi ehf. Editor: Hilda Karen Garðarsdóttir Layout: Skyndiprent Advertising: eidfaxi@eidfaxi.is Cover photo: Blesi frá Heysholti at Jökulsárlón. Photo by Liga Liepina 2

A letter from the editor Many of you know the Eiðfaxi magazine. The first issue was published in Iceland in July 1977 and since then Eiðfaxi has been in a leading role when it comes to cover the world of the Icelandic horse and horse people in Iceland. For many years Eiðfaxi International was also published for the foreign horse entusiasts all over the world. Ever since the internet first became a common phenomenon and then social media took press and news coverage up to a new level, the print media has taken a hit. It seems that people don’t have time or interest anymore to read artickles in magazines and books, because it’s awfully cool to read about them via computer, tablet or smart phone. Even so, there are many of us who really hold on to the tradition of publishing magazines. Having said that, team Eiðfaxi obviously wants to be cool as well, so that is why this E-magazine is now debuting and you’re reading it on your smart device, or perhaps you even printed it on your home printer! This is a free online version of news, articles and interviews from Iceland to our Icelandic Horse Lovers around the world. We are quite unique and sometimes isolated here up North, with our horse the Icelandic one, the only one, on our Island. So, we want to share all the magnificent project, horses, horsemanship, travelling, competition and the art of riding in Iceland with you. Eiðfaxi International in the new online version, will be published and sent out every other month and we hope you are on our email list so you will be joining us on the ride!

Hilda Karen Garðarsdóttir hilda@eidfaxi.is 4

Fjórðungsmót Vesturlands Borgarnes júli 7 - 11 2021

Priviledged to know these geniuses Árni Björn Pálsson

Árni Björn Pálsson is a well-known trainer, breeding- and competitionrider. He has been awarded „Breeding rider of the year“ four times, in 2013, 2018, 2019 and in 2020. But what is the key to this success?

„A truly natural gæðingur can make a clumsy rider look like a genius,“ says Árni Björn and laughs. „But no, seriusly it is just like any other work, you have to keep at it and as you gain experience showing horses, you improve and you get better in reading the types of horses you get and you can use your knowledge as you go since we are always learning something new every day.“ Árni thinks that the horse‘s confirmation says a lot about its abilities. „We are always learning more and more about the connection between confirmation and his ability to move and perform the complex things we are asking of him. Of course we see different looks on a great tölter and a real pace horse but there are certain sections in their confirmation that make things easier for them, and that can really help the trainer,“ says Árni and that makes us wonder how he feels about the changes in the weight between the scores for confirmation and ridden abilitis, where the weigth for confirmation has now been decreased by 5%. „This decision is probably taken after a real consideration. Personally, I would have liked to 8

see this change made after about ten years. We have reached great results in the last ten years and the horses are getting more beautiful, but in my opinion we need to reach more retention and stability in the confirmation development before we decrease the proportion of it in the total score.“ But what about the other changes? „They are mainly good changes and I think we have to give them a chance. We are emphasizing on a strong charackter and a self-carrying horse. Maybe these are the tools that will reveal which horses don‘t belong in that category,“ says Árni and adds that it will be exciting to see if that will be the case. What would Árni advise young riders who want to gain experience and skills on the breeding track? „Oh, that is a tricky one in a short conversation, but the very best thing is to get a job at the best breeding and training farms like I did when I was a kid. I was fortunate enough to get to work for Kristbjörg and Gunnar in Auðsholtshjáleiga and there I learned to see how to do things right. That‘s is my advise,“ says Árni before he says goodbye an carrys on.

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Memorable Horses fro

Kolka frá Breiðholti í Flóa f. Grunur frá Oddhóli

„Kolka is the most talented mare I have ridden. She posseses extraordinary gaits, great speed range and balance. She is a big charackter. When I showed her in Hella 2018, it was amazing and I have never experienced a performance like that; I got in the saddle just minutes before to warm her up and I felt the power and abilities just there. So I stopped and got off, walked with her until the pair before us was finished, got back on and went straight to the track. This just happend, there was no ending to her power and great abilities on the gaits, but she still got a 10 for walk both ways! Amazing mare.“ Photo: HHG 10

Spaði frá Stuðlum f. Barði frá Laugarbökkum „The two brothers from Stuðlar have a unique charackter. Clear gaited natural gæðingur with a very easy and sweet temperament that everyone likes in a horse and it’s not complicated keeping them on your side. That makes them quite valuable.Spaði carries him self strongly and proudly and always light on the reins. A very happy horse.” Spaði is now in the hands of Hulda Gústafsdóttir. Photo: Nicki Pfau

Katla frá Hemlu II f. Skýr frá Skálakoti

“I don’t know where to start describing Katla. She is quite exceptional. She is very pretty, actually the dream horse both when you think of confirmation and ridden abilities. She is big and elegant to look at and has a special charm everywhere she goes.” Photo: Óðinn Örn Jóhannsson

om the Breeding Track

Elja frá Sauðholti 2

f. Brimnir frá Ketilsstöðum

Jarl frá Árbæjarhjáleigu II f. Stáli frá Kjarri

Draupnir frá Stuðlum f. Kiljan frá Steinnesi

„Regarding confirmation, this is a very valuable stallion. His front part is very beautiful, he has good height and overall a stunning horse. Natural gæðingur with clear gaits and a sweet charackter. A top class stallion anyone can ride.“ Photo: Nicki Pfau

„Like Draupnir he has these great, clear gaits and amazing charackter – anyone can ride him to and do great things. Jarl is a very fun horse, light with extremely clear gaits – simply a natural. Jarl is now in training with Hekla Katharína Kristinsdóttir and we will probably see him soon on the competition track.“ Photo: Óðinn Örn Jóhannsson

„Elja has a unique front part, 9.5 for neck, withers and shoulders and has a very delicate type of confirmation. A super gæðingur with great gaits and spirit. It would have been exciting to have her in competition now.“ Árni showed Elja for Iceland on the WC in Berlin 2019, where she won the class of 7 year old mares. Now she is beiing trained by Frauke Schenzel on Kronshof in Germany and the plan is to compete on her in fivegait. Photo: Sofi e Lahtinen Carlsson - Toltaren

Trausti frá Þóroddsstöðum f. Þröstur frá Hvammi

“Trausti is a genius. I showed him four-years-old and he already had open gaits and ready for anything. The tölt was naturally good but the pace always clear. Glódís Rún Sigurðardóttir competed on Trausti for Iceland at the WC in Berlin 2019.” Photo: Óðinn Örn Jóhannsson

Sigurrós frá Stuðlum

f. Dynur frá Dísarstöðum “Sigurrós is a natural gæðingur with great speed in all gaits, high leg action, large steps, and a big and strong mare. The plan was to show her again in the spring of 2020, but due to Covid-19 that didn’t happen. Photo: Nicki Pfau

Father CS RAS TS Draupnir Stuðlum Kiljan frá Steinnesi 8.74 8.97 8.88 Elja frá Sauðholti 2 Brimnir frá Ketilsstöðum 8.56 8.88 8.76 Jarl frá Árbæjarhjáleigu II Stáli frá Kjarri 8.50 8.96 8.78 Katla frá Hemlu II Skýr frá Skálakoti 8.48 8.89 8.72 Kolka frá Breiðholti í Flóa Grunur frá Oddhóli 8.16 9.10 8.73 Sigurrós frá Stuðlum Dynur frá Dísarstöðum 8.36 8.70 8.56 Spaði frá Stuðlum Barði frá Laugarbökkum 8.53 8.87 8.73 Trausti frá Þóroddsstöðum Þröstur frá Hvammi 8.34 8.87 8.66 12

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Frægur IS2012187051 frá Auðsholtshjáleigu

Sölvi IS2012187051 frá Auðsholtshjáleigu

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The National Breeding show A future event?

The National Breeding show took place in Hella on June 27th in excellent weather conditions. The event was a collaboration of The Horse Breeders association, The Icelandic Agricultural Advisory Centre, The Horses of Iceland Project and Rangárbakkar. The event draw over 1200 guests to Hella and a great number of subscribers also watched online on www.eidfaxi.is, where one could choose from Icelandic, English or German. Þorvaldur Kristjánsson former breeding director, and Jón Vilmundarson horse breeder, were speakers in charge in Hella. Photos by Louisa Hackl

Álfaklettur frá Syðri-Gegnishólum, the highest judged 7 year and older stallion, received the Faxabikar trophy. From left: Sigríkur Jónsson, Sveinn Steinarsson, Sólveig Stefánsdóttir, Bergur Jónsson, Olil Amble and Álfaklettur, Magnús Einarsson, Daníel Jónsson and Rauðskeggur frá Kjarnholtum, Kolbrún Jónsdóttir and Þór frá Stóra-Hofi. The right to take part in the show were the ten highest judged breeding horses in all age classes, that is 4, 5, 6 and 7 years old stallions and mares. Most of them were able to come to Hella to be presented by their riders and to receive rewards for their achievements, since there was no Landsmót this year like planned. Stallions with first prize for offspring were also presented, as well as honorary prize stallions. Four stallions received first prize for offspring: Skaginn frá Skipaskaga, Ölnir frá Akranesi, Konsert frá Hofi and Stormur frá Herríðarhóli. 16

Honorary prize for offspring reiceived three stallions: Skýr frá Skálakoti, Óskasteinn frá Íbishóli and Loki frá Selfossi. Þorvaldur Kristjánsson breeding director in horse breeding at the time, claimed that this show was very important since Landsmót was cancelled, so the top breeding horses this year would get their rigtfully earned prizes, both for their individual performances as well as for offspring. Eiðfaxi contacted a few commentators to have their opinion on the event.

The owners of Fold frá Flagbjarnarholti received the Þorkelsskjöldur trophy, which is given to the highest judged mare of the event. From left: Sveinn Steinarsson, Eyvör Sveinbjörnsdóttir, Bragi Guðmundsson and Sveinbjörn Bragason. Haraldur Sveinsson and Jóhanna Bríet Ingólfsdóttir horse breeders in Hrafnkelsstaðir 1 What did you think of the event? We thought it was a good event and enjoyed watching it from our car. We would have liked to have met more people and be able to walk around the area, but due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we stayed in the car. Do you think this event will be annual from now on? Yes, why not? We could very much picture it develop into an annual event. Do you think this arrangement, where the breeding horses are only presented and not judged, would suit an event like Landsmót in the future?

Yes definitely, mostly due to the freshness we noticed in the younger horses. They were not coming to Landsmót after maybe a few breeding shows and then had to perform again at Landsmót, instead they came only to be presented on their own terms. Even if the young horses are extremely good, we must remember not to compare them to older horses and demand too much of them, and this arrangement can surely be of help there. The only question is if Landssýning in the years between Landsmót, should take place later in the summer, so more horses get the chance to take part in it. But it is also understandable that we have to draw the line somewhere.

Helga Una Björnsdóttir horse breeder and rider What did you think of the event? I thought it was a great event and I liked the arrangement, and the horses got a good presentation. The weather was also nice, so that helped too. It does not replace Landsmót, but definitely fun and necessary in times like these. Do you think this event will be annual from now on? Perhaps it will, but only in the years between Landsmót. I really believe though, that prizes like honorary prize and 1. Prize for offspring only belongs to Landsmót, but of course it was understandable to hand out these prizes this year at Landssýning, because of the times we live now. Do you think this arrangement, where the breeding horses are only presented and not judged, would suit an event like Landsmót in the future? As a rider, I feel that is quite special to show the horses again at Landsmót. The atmosphere is unique, and we prepare differently for it. I don’t think I would like to give that up.

Stormur frá Herríðarhóli received 1. Prize for offspring. From left: Jelena Ohm, Sveinn Steinarsson, Ólafur Arnar Jónsson and Renate Hannemann in Herríðarhóll, Árni Björn Pálsson on Stormur.

Árni Björn and Stormur frá Herríðarhóli showed why they were hard to beat in T1 on the competition track for years.

Karl Áki Sigurðsson horse breeder What did you think of the event? It really was a more success than I dared to hope. The day was great and luckily organizers went on with it, in these strange times we have had. The event gave us breeders a chance to see a lot of horses and we collected a lot of information for our thoughts into the next breeding year. Do you think this event will be annual from now on? I couldn’t say, but I do ask myself if we shouldn’t have some similar event in the years between Landsmót. Do you think this arrangement, where the breeding horses are only presented and not judged, would suit an event like Landsmót in the future? Yes, I think so, but to be honest I hope it does not evolve that way, since I’m one of them who doesn’t want to shorten Landsmót down at all, not one hour! This is the week that I look forward to every two years and I really don’t want to change a thing about it, and I don’t understand the debate to shorten everything, because I like them just the way they are.

Ölnir frá Akranesi received 1. Prize for offspring. From left: Jelena Ohm, Sveinn Steinarsson, Smári Njálsson breeder of Ölnir,Reynir Örn Pálmason sits on Ölnir.

Reynir Örn Pálmason and Ölnir. 20

Konsert frá Hofi reiceived 1. Prize for offspring. From left: Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson and Konsert, Jón Gíslason and Eline Manon Schrijver breeders, Sveinn Steinarsson and Jelena Ohm.

Konsert frá Hofi and Jakob Svavar.

Daníel Jónsson waves to spectators riding Skaginn. 21

Skaginn frá Skipaskaga received 1. Prize for offspring and the Orrabikar trophy. Here the breeders in Skipaskagi, Sigurveig Stefánsdóttir and Jón Árnason, lift the trophys high up in the air and Daníel Jónsson on Skaginn.

Ármann Sverrisson gets his prize for Loki. From left: Jelena Ohm, Sveinn Steinarsson, Ármann and Loki, Viðar Ingólfsson sits on Starkar frá Egilsstaðakoti son of Loki.

Loki frá Selfossi reiceived honorary prize for offspring and he came with a group of 10 interesting offsprings. 22

Óskasteinn frá Íbishól reiceived honorary prize for offspring. From left: Jelena Ohm, Sveinn Steinarsson, Magnús Bragi and Óskasteinn and Elisabeth Jansen and Aðalsteinn frá Íbishóli son of Óskasteinn.

Magnús Bragi was of course happy with both the awards and Óskasteinn.

Skýr frá Skálakoti with offspring and Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson. 23

Skýr frá Skálakoti reiceived honarary prize for offspring and the 1. place, and is the holder of Sleipnirbikar trophy. Photo from left: Skýr frá Skálakoti, Jakob Svavar and Guðmundur Jón Viðarsson breeder of Skýr. 24

Drift frá Austurási was the highest judged four-year-old mare of the show and therefor the first receiver of the Álfadísarbikarinn trophy. Photo from left: Sveinn Steinarsson, Bergur Jónsson and Olil Amble giving the Álfadísarbikarinn trophy, Loftur Breki Hauksson and Ragnhildur Loftsdóttir breeders of Drift, Árni Björn Pálsson riding Drift and Sigríður M. Björgvinsdóttir chairman of Sleipnir riding club.

Álfamær frá Prestsbæ was the highest judge five-year-old mare of the show and reiceied the Hremmsuskjöldur trophy. Photo: Sveinn Steinarsson, Sigríkur Jónsson chairman of the Horse breeders association in South Iceland and Þórarinn Eymundsson with Álfamær.

Leynir frá Garðshorni was the highest judged five-year-old stallion of the show. Photo from left: Sveinn Steinarsson, Jelena Ohm the breeders Birna Tryggvadóttir Thorlacius and Agnar Þór Magnússon, who was also riding Leynir.

Askja frá Efstu-Grund was the highest judged mare of the show and received the Kröflubikarinn trophy. Photo from left: Sigríkur Jónsson, Sigurjón Sigurðsson and Sigríður Lóa Gissurardóttir breeders and owners of Askja and Hlynur Guðmundsson rider.

Fold frá Flagbjarnarholti in flying pace. She was the Róbert frá Kirkjufelli was the highest judged best seven-year-old mare of the show and her rider four-year-old stallion of the show, ridden by is Sveinbjörn Bragason. Daníel Jónsson. 28

Viðar frá Skör was the highest judged stallion in the class of six-year-olds. Photo from left: Jónas Vigfússon and Kristín Thorberg, Ólafur Þórisson chairman of Geysir riding club, Karl Áki Sigurðsson breeder of Viðar, Helga Una Björnsdóttir with Viðar and Sigríkur Jónsson.

KOLTURSEY AUSTUR-LANDEYJUM

@KOLTURSEY

SÍMI - 692 1030

Glódís and Glymjandi frá Íbishóli. Photo: Jón Björnsson

Young rider of the year 2020 Glódís Rún Sigurðardóttir Young rider of the year 2020 is Glódís Rún Sigurðardóttir. Glódís is born in 2002 and has been riding since since was a small child and competed with great results. She has won the childrens class at Landsmót three times and won 30

over twenty Icelandic Champion titles. In addition to all that, she has competed for Iceland both on the Nordic Championship and the World Championship.

What do these awards mean to you? “It is an enormous honour to receive such rewards. This is surely a title that every young rider aims to get, and I have always had it as a larger goal of mine. It’s so rewarding to get recognition for the work I have put in my projects and be awarded for the things I have achieved along the way.” How does one achieve what you have? “I have a family that support me all the way, and I’m really thankful for their devotion. I also want to thank my horses for the great cooperation and always to put all their effort in our projects. I work with a lot of people and trainers that have helped me get where I am, so this is a team effort.” What does Glódís Rún do when not riding /training? “I’m studying at Fjölbrautaskóli Suðurlands high school in Selfoss and will be graduating in May. I’m also working as a trainer home in Sunnuhvoll, where I train for others as well as my own horses.” What are your plans for the years to come? “To keep improve myself as a rider and learn something new and become better every day. After high school I want to take a break from studying and get more experience as a trainer and rider. My plan is to go to Denmark next fall to

Glódís riding Trausti frá Þóroddsstöðum at WC2019

train horses and come back home in the winter to train and take part in competitions. After the one-year break, I plan on going to the University of Hólar to study there,” says this ambitious young rider of the year, Glódís Rún Sigurðardóttir.

Nominated for Young rider of the year Glódís Rún Sigurðardóttir, Gyða Sveinbjörg Kristinsdóttir Hafþór Hreiðar Birgisson, Thelma Dögg Tómasdóttir Ylfa Guðrún Svafarsdóttir

Gæðingarider of the year 2020 Hlynur Guðmundsson

Hlynur and Tromma frá Höfn. Photo: Þórdís Ingunn Björnsdóttir

Hlynur is the Gæðingarider of the year second year in a row. How does that feel Hlynur? „I am truly honoured to have received such rewards and now two times in two years. It is a very good feeling to be recognized for the hard work you have put in your projects. There a many memorable things from 2020 that come to mind, but surely foremost the fact that my main competition horse, Tromma frá Höfn, was constantly improving and we ended up winning the B-class at Metamót in Sprettur with a total score of 9,11.” How did you manage to achieve your goals last year? „I wouldn’t have gotten these good results if it wasn’t for the trust the owners of the horses have shown me, and for that I’m truly grateful. The results are of course a combination of several things, like the quality of the horses and the cooperation in training and caring between me and my fiancé Bjarney Jóna Unnsteinsdóttir. We train a lot together and I could not have done this without her.” Hlynur had three mares in competition last year, Hending frá Eyjarhólum, Marín frá Lækjarbrekku and Tromma frá Höfn. How would you describe those three and what are their future plans? „First it is Tromma, she is sired by Magni frá Hólum and the mother is Flauta frá Kanastöðum. Tromma is a very sensitive gæðingur with great speed range, uniqe balance in tölt and trot. I have trained Tromma for four years and I have found honered having her all this time. Now she is expecting a foal this summer sired by Skýr frá Skálakoti. Hending is sired by Mjölnir frá Hlemmiskeiði and her mother is Folda frá Eyjarhólum. Hending is a strong but light footed fourgaited mare with 9,5 for trot and slow tölt

from last summer’s assessment. Hending is also pregnant with a foal sired by Skýr frá Skálakoti, but the plan is to bring her back in training after one year. Marín frá Lækjarbrekku is sired by Gaumur frá Auðsholtshjáleigu and the mother is Þula frá Hólum. Marín is a very soft gæðingur with excellent gaits and great speed in pace. Marín returned to training last season after she had had a few foals. Now she is like the other two, with filly after Skýr.” What do think about the Gædinga competition in general? “I find it a great form of competition where the Icelandic gædingur gets to shine and show his abilities. I like the positive development and new ideas like gædingatölt, which was first tried out last year.” Hlynur is determined when asked about this year’s goals: “My goal is always to bring well trained horses to the track and be able to show his qualities. I have several new horses in training, and I plan to show them this year. Then Magni frá Hólum is getting better after some injuries last year, so I’m excited for the new season,” says the Gæðingarider of the year, Hlynur Guðmundsson.

Nominated for Gæðingarider of the year 2020 Daníel Jónsson Hlynur Guðmundsson Sigurður Sigurðarson Stefán Birgir Stefánsson Sæmundur Þorbjörn Sæmundsson

Ranking Lists in Gædinga competition of 2020 # Rider

A-class

1 Stefán Birgir Stefánsson

Event Gæðingamót Hrings

2 Guðmundur Björgvinsson

IS2013158161 Sólon frá Þúfum

8,68

Meistaramót Íslands

3 Sylvía Sigurbjörnsdóttir

IS2008187685 Villingur frá Breiðholti í Flóa 8,66

Gæðingamót Fáks

4 Jóhann Kristinn Ragnarsson

IS2005137600 Atlas frá Lýsuhóli

Gæðingamót Sleipnis

5 Daníel Jónsson

IS2008188560 Kolskeggur frá Kjarnholtum I 8,66

Gæðingamót Sörla

6 Bjarni Jónasson

IS2011157065 Korgur frá Garði

8,65

Gæðingamót Hrings

7 Sigurbjörn Bárðarson

IS2008186651 Nagli frá Flagbjarnarholti

8,65

Gæðingaveisla Sörla (WR)

8 Freyja Amble Gísladóttir

IS2011158165 Stimpill frá Þúfum

8,62

Félagsmót Skagfirðings

9 Sæmundur Þorbjörn Sæmundss IS2013186955 Bjarmi frá Litlu-Tungu 2

8,61

Gæðingaveisla Sörla (WR)

10 Vignir Sigurðsson

8,61

1 Elin Holst

B-class

Score 8,70

# Rider

Horse

IS2006165663 Gangster frá Árgerði

8,66

IS2013265005 Evíta frá Litlu-Brekku

Horse

Score

Gæðingakeppni Léttis 2020

Event

IS2007176176 Frami frá Ketilsstöðum

8,70

Gæðingamót Sleipnis

2 Olil Amble

IS2011176178 Glampi frá Ketilsstöðum

8,66

Gæðingamót Sleipnis

3 Sigurbjörn Bárðarson

IS2006187683 Hrafn frá Breiðholti í Flóa

8,65

Gæðingaveisla Sörla (WR)

4 Vilborg Smáradóttir

IS2013157651 Sigur frá Stóra-Vatnsskarði

8,65

Hestaþing Sindra

5 Þór Jónsteinsson

IS2011187091 Frár frá Sandhól

8,62

Opna Gæðingam. á Flúðum

6 Hlynur Guðmundsson

IS2011277012 Tromma frá Höfn

8,61

Gæðingamót Geysis

7 Hanna Rún Ingibergsdóttir

IS2011181430 Grímur frá Skógarási

8,60

Gæðingamót Sörla

8 Thelma Dögg Tómasdóttir

IS2009165101 Póstur frá Litla-Dal

8,59

Stórmót Þjálfa 2020

9 Helgi Þór Guðjónsson

IS2014187695 Þröstur frá Kolsholti 2

8,58

Gæðingamót Sleipnis

10 Bjarney Jóna Unnsteinsd.

IS2013285750 Hending frá Eyjarhólum

8,58

Hestaþing Sindra

Ragnhildur and Vákur frá Vatnsenda. Photo: Louisa Hackl

Sport rider of the year 2020 Ragnhildur Haraldsdóttir Ragnhildur Haraldsdóttir is the Sport rider of the year. She did very well on the track, taking part in the strongest tournaments last summer. Among her achievements are a win at the Reykjavík Championship in V1 fourgait, riding Vákur frá Vatnsenda. Their total score in the A-finals was 8.03. At the same event she took part in the A-finals in tölt T1 and was awarded with the 36

Golden feather from the Icelandic trainer’s association. She also made the A-finals in fourgait at the Sleipnir tournament and in tölt at the Sprettur Open. She won the Open gædingatournament in Flúðir and ended in first place on the Icelandic ranking list in V1 and has two horses on the top 20 list in T1. “To be awarded as the sport rider of the year is a

great honour and a bit unreal at the same time. Looking back, the win riding Vákur at the Reykjavík Championship was my favourite moment. It’s a bit sad that the Icelandic Championship was not held, since my plan was to top there,” says Ragnhildur and this was her first nomination for a riders award in Iceland. Ragnhildur had mainly two horses in competition last summer, Vákur frá Vatnsenda and Úlfur frá Mosfellsbæ. Can you tell us about Vákur? “In my mind Vákur is a very special horse, a fourgaiter with great and even gaits, always ready to give everything he’s got. I had Vákur when working for Hafliði Halldórsson at Ármót. Vákur was then turning four years old and from the start I knew he would be a great fourgaiter in the future. He has this great character and gaits and the charm and form under rider that is essential to get the best results. I showed him in a breeding assessment in the spring of 2014 and at the Landsmót in Hella that year. He came back to me in February 2019. Then he had not been in any training for over a year. Since then, we have been growing together.” Ragnhildur has also gotten great result riding Úlfur “Úlfur comes out of my own breeding and therefor very special to me. He is a very sweet character with extreme movements and good gaits. He is growing now with his increased strength and he is a fun project and friend.” Success like this one has to come with ambition, hard work and talent. But to what does Ragnhildur owe the results?

Ragnhildur and Úlfur frá Mosfellsbæ.

“There are so many that have helped my along the way. I want to thank my riding instructor Julio Borba, his part is huge in my success. I have taken lessons with him since 2013 and I never miss an opportunity to do so when he is in Iceland. I have taken lessons with more instructors and if you are determined to achieve something, you have to take lessons on a regular basis and learn from the more experienced at each time. I want to thank Hafliði for bringing me Vákur, and my family and friends that have supported me in any way, like Helgi Þór and Rúna Tómasdóttir my lucky charm and Guðni Gunnarsson who has helped my with my mental training.” What are your goals for 2021? “My goal is to do my best with my horses and keep taking lesson to gain more knowledge and understanding to be able to build and train them right. It is not a secret that I aim for the World Championship in Herning with Vákur, but for that to happen I have to keep my focus because there are so many great riders and horses with that same goal,” says the Sport rider of 2020, Ragnhildur Haraldsdóttir.

Nominated for Sport rider of the year 2020 Aðalheiður Anna Guðjónsdóttir, Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson, Ragnhildur Haraldsdóttir, Teitur Árnason,Viðar Ingólfsson 37

V1 fourgait

Icelandic Ranking Lists in sport 2020 #

Rider

Ragnhildur Haraldsdóttir

IS2010125289 Vákur frá Vatnsenda

Jóhanna Margrét Snorradóttir

Aðalheiður Anna Guðjónsdóttir

Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson

IS2011135086 Hálfmáni frá Steinsholti 7,57

Opið síðsumarsmót Spretts

Siguroddur Pétursson

IS2009137717 Steggur frá Hrísdal

7,53

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Hanna Rún Ingibergsdóttir

IS2011181430 Grímur frá Skógarási

7,47

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Þórarinn Ragnarsson

IS2011187118 Leikur frá Vesturkoti

7,43

Opið síðsumarsmót Spretts

Mette Mannseth

IS2012258163 Skálmöld frá Þúfum

7,33

Opið Haustmót Léttis 2020

Hulda Gústafsdóttir

IS2011180401 Sesar frá Lönguskák

7,27

Opið síðsumarsmót Spretts

IS2012187985 Hraunar frá Vorsabæ II

7,27

Opið síðsumarsmót Spretts

F1 fivegait

10 Helga Una Björnsdóttir

PP1 pace test

Event

7,70

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

IS2010125848 Bárður frá Melabergi

7,63

Opið síðsumarsmót Spretts

IS2011157299 Óskar frá Breiðstöðum

7,60

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Rider

Snorri Dal

Þórarinn Eymundsson

IS2012181608 Þráinn frá Flagbjarnarh. 7,53

Hólamótið UMSS og Skagf.

Teitur Árnason

IS2012181660 Atlas frá Hjallanesi 1

7,40

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Hinrik Bragason

IS2009136571 Byr frá Borgarnesi

7,33

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Árni Björn Pálsson

IS2013182591 Jökull frá Breiðh. í Flóa 7,33

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Bjarni Jónasson

IS2010284977 Harpa Sjöfn frá Hvolsv. 7,30

Hólamótið UMSS og Skagf.

Sina Scholz

IS2009157780 Nói frá Saurbæ

7,23

Hólamótið UMSS og Skagf.

Þórarinn Ragnarsson

IS2013287870 Ronja frá Vesturkoti

7,23

Íþróttamót Geysis

Sólon Morthens

IS2012225599 Katalína frá Hafnarfirði

7,17

Opið síðsumarsmót Spretts

IS2012236578 Fjóla frá Eskiholti II

7,17

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

10 Valdís Björk Guðmundsdóttir

Score

Rider

Davíð Jónsson

Jóhann Kristinn Ragnarsson

3 4

Horse

IS2010165559 Engill frá Ytri-Bægisá I

Horse

Score

Event

7,57

Opið íþróttamót Borgfirðings

Score

Event

IS2005236671 Irpa frá Borgarnesi

8,92

Íþróttamót Geysis

IS2011286806 Þórvör frá Lækjarb.

8,46

Íþróttamót Geysis

Konráð Valur Sveinsson

IS2014165652 Tangó frá Litla-Garði

8,13

Opið íþróttamót Borgfirðings

Þórarinn Eymundsson

IS2007258558 Gullbrá frá Lóni

8,10

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson

IS2014135606 Ernir frá Efri-Hrepp

8,08

Opið síðsumarsmót Spretts

Árni Björn Pálsson

IS2011182375 Óliver frá Hólaborg

8,00

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Helga Una Björnsdóttir

IS2006186178 Penni frá Eystra-Fróðh. 7,92

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Sigurður Vignir Matthíasson

IS2000156686 Léttir frá Eiríksstöðum

7,83

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Daníel Gunnarsson

IS2010235062 Eining frá Einhamri 2

7,79

Opið síðsumarsmót Spretts

10 Erling Ó. Sigurðsson

IS1999165791 Hnikar frá Ytra-Dalsg.

7,71

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Rider

Aðalheiður Anna Guðjónsdóttir

IS2012188095 Kveikur frá Stangarlæk 1

Viðar Ingólfsson

IS2011286771 Maístjarna frá Árbæjarhjál. II 8,50 Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Siguroddur Pétursson

IS2009137717 Steggur frá Hrísdal

8,30 Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Jóhanna Margrét Snorradóttir

IS2010125848 Bárður frá Melabergi

8,23 Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson

IS2011135086 Hálfmáni frá Steinsholti

8,17 Opið síðs.m. Spretts

Ragnhildur Haraldsdóttir

IS2010125289 Vákur frá Vatnsenda

8,17 Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson

IS2010156107 Konsert frá Hofi

7,93 Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Ævar Örn Guðjónsson

IS2009188691 Vökull frá Efri-Brú

7,83 Íþróttamót Spretts 2020

Janus Halldór Eiríksson

IS2012287637 Blíða frá Laugarbökkum

7,83 Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

IS2009284172 Katla frá Fornusöndum

7,73 Íþróttamót Sleipnis

Horse

Score Event

Score

8,53 Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Rider

Event

Aðalheiður Anna Guðjónsdóttir

IS2011157299 Óskar frá Breiðstöðum

8,63

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson

IS2013287086 Vallarsól frá Völlum

7,83

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson

IS2012181421 Kopar frá Fákshólum

7,70

Opið síðs.m. Spretts

Gústaf Ásgeir Hinriksson

IS2011186194 Brynjar frá Bakkakoti

7,67

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Anna Björk Ólafsdóttir

IS2012225553 Eldey frá Hafnarfirði

7,63

Opið síðs.m. Spretts

Snorri Dal

IS2010165559 Engill frá Ytri-Bægisá I

7,53

Hafnarfjarðarm.m. Sörla

Edda Rún Guðmundsdóttir

IS2008284741 Spyrna frá Strandarhöfði

7,50

Íþróttamót Spretts 2020

Eygló Arna Guðnadóttir

IS2008184551 Nýr Dagur frá Þúfu í Land.

7,37

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

Ólöf Rún Guðmundsdóttir

IS2012201487 Skál frá Skör

7,30

Íþróttamót Sleipnis

10 Guðmundur Björgvinsson

IS2011265651 Ópera frá Litla-Garði

7,23

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

T2 Tölt

T1 Tölt

10 Elvar Þormarsson

Pace rider of the year 2020 Konráð Valur Sveinsson

Konráð and Kjarkur frá Árbæjarhjáleigu in flying pace.

“It is a good feeling, always enjoyable to receive recognition for your achievements on the track,” says Konráð Valur, who now is the Pace rider of the year, third year in a row. His results last year were amazing. He has the best time of the year in 100m pace and 3rd best in 250m and 150m! But what was your highlight of the season? “I think it is just the big picture, the whole season with Kjarkur frá Árbæjarhjáleigu II. He is the horse that has been with me through many competitions and many seasons in a row in training. A truly magnificent horse. The new pace horses are of course very exciting, it is a great feeling to realize you were right when it comes to picking out a top pace horse.” Konráð became Reykjavík Champion in 250m and 100m pace last year and he was the winner of the Pace games (Skeiðleikar) last year. He showed up with new, very fast horses last year, for example he sat four horses that went the 100m under 8 seconds: Kjarkur frá Árbæjarhjáleigu II (7,32), Dama frá Hekluflötum (7,56), Tangó frá Litla-Garði (7,81), and Kastor frá Garðshorni á Þelamörk (7,86). But what does it take to be a top pace rider year after year? “I think for me, it is having people around me who believe in the same things I do and are ready to discuss them. In that way you can keep on improving in all areas of riding, training or caring

for the horses. Then you also have to keep the focus and don’t be afraid to try new things to see what is truly working and what not.” The WC in Herning is this year and Konráð is the World Champion in 100m pace, so he has earned a right to compete there. What horse will you take to Denmark? “There are a few five gaited horses and pace horses I can choose from, Kastor, Kjarkur, Tangó and Laxnes. These are the horses I will be competing on this summer. Then anything can happen, new opportunities, horses, you’ll never now. My goal for each season is to do better than last time and break a record,” says Konráð Valur.

Nominated for pace rider of the year 2020 Árni Björn Pálsson Daníel Gunnarsson Jóhann Magnússon Konráð Valur Sveinsson Sigursteinn Sumarliðason 41

Icelandic Ranking Lists in pace 2020

250m

150m

100m

# Rider Horse Time Event 1 Konráð Valur Sveinsson

IS2006186758 Kjarkur frá Árbæjarhjáleigu II 7,32

Opið síðsumarsmót Spretts

2 Sigursteinn Sumarliðason

IS2008187654 Krókus frá Dalbæ

7,37

Lokamót Meistaradeild

3 Jóhann Magnússon

IS2011255571 Fröken frá Bessastöðum

7,44

Lokamót Meistaradeild

4 Ingibergur Árnason

IS2009286105 Sólveig frá Kirkjubæ

7,49

Gæðingaveisla Sörla (WR)

5 Sæmundur Þ. Sæmundsson

IS2007157339 Seyður frá Gýgjarhóli

7,51

Opna Gæðingamótið á Flúðum

6 Árni Björn Pálsson

IS2011182375 Óliver frá Hólaborg

7,51

Meistaramót Íslands

7 Viðar Ingólfsson

IS2010186505 Ópall frá Miðási

7,53

Meistaramót Íslands

8 Sigurbjörn Bárðarson

IS2008157895 Vökull frá Tunguhálsi II

7,55

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

9 Konráð Valur Sveinsson

IS2011201056 Dama frá Hekluflötum

7,56

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

10 Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson

IS2011187880 Jarl frá Kílhrauni

7,57

Meistaramót Íslands

# Rider Horse Time Event 1 Sigurbjörn Bárðarson

IS2008157895 Vökull frá Tunguhálsi II

14,06

Metamót 2020

2 Árni Björn Pálsson

IS2010177100 Seiður frá Hlíðarbergi

14,11

Metamót 2020

3 Konráð Valur Sveinsson

IS2006186758 Kjarkur frá Árbæjarhjáleigu II 14,17

Skeiðmót Meistaradeildar

4 Gústaf Ásgeir Hinriksson

IS2013155474 Sjóður frá Þóreyjarnúpi

14,19

Metamót 2020

5 Sigurður Vignir Matthíasson

IS2000156686 Léttir frá Eiríksstöðum

14,22

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

6 Daníel Gunnarsson

IS2010235062 Eining frá Einhamri 2

14,4

Skeiðleikar 5

7 Ingibergur Árnason

IS2006181752 Flótti frá Meiri-Tungu 1

14,42

Metamót 2020

8 Glódís Rún Sigurðardóttir

IS2006288809 Blikka frá Þóroddsstöðum

14,49

Metamót 2020

9 Eyrún Ýr Pálsdóttir

IS2010255503 Sigurrós frá Gauksmýri

14,52

Metamót 2020

10 Hans Þór Hilmarsson

IS2008257650 Vorsól frá Stóra-Vatnsskarði 14,54

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

# Rider

Horse

Time

Event

1 Sigursteinn Sumarliðason

IS2008187654 Krókus frá Dalbæ

21,23

Metamót 2020

2 Sigurbjörn Bárðarson

IS2008157895 Vökull frá Tunguhálsi II

21,36

Metamót 2020

3 Konráð Valur Sveinsson

IS2006186758 Kjarkur frá Árbæjarhjáleigu II 21,57

Skeiðleikar 1

4 Daníel Gunnarsson

IS2010235062 Eining frá Einhamri 2

21,75

Reykjavíkurmeistaramót

5 Gústaf Ásgeir Hinriksson

IS2010266201 Rangá frá Torfunesi

22,02

Metamót 2020

6 Finnur Jóhannesson

IS2006257301 Tinna Svört frá Glæsibæ

22,07

Skeiðleikar 3

7 Sæmundur Þ.Sæmundsson

IS2007157339 Seyður frá Gýgjarhóli

22,25

Metamót 2020

8 Jóhann Magnússon

IS2011255571 Fröken frá Bessastöðum

22,3

Metamót 2020

9 Árni Björn Pálsson

IS2010177100 Seiður frá Hlíðarbergi

22,82

Skeiðleikar 5

10 Ingibergur Árnason

IS2009286105 Sólveig frá Kirkjubæ

22,9

Metamót 2020

Ranking Lists from Worldfengur.com, February 17th 2021.

COMPETITION HORSE BREEDING FARM OF 2020 IN ICELAND

ÁRBÆJARHJÁLEIGA 2 www.heklakatharina.is - heklak@gmail.com / HeklaKatharina @hekla_katharina Árbæjarhjáleiga II

Árni Björn riding Fenrir frá Feti. Photo: Jón Björnsson

Breeding rider of the year 2020 Árni Björn Pálsson Árni Björn Pálsson is the Breeding rider of the year, third year in a row. “I will not deny it, it is always nice to get a pad on the shoulder when things go well. I am a professional rider and a train, show horses, work with breeders, owners and trainers and people who trust me for their project. So being aware breeding rider of the year is certainly a nice bonus but not necessarily a goal in itself. 44

My work is very giving, because you meet a lot of people and horses from all over the world really, therefore you can say that I have a good perspective on the breeding world each time.” Árni Björn showed 87 breeding horses last year in 100 performances. The average age of these horses was 5,9 years, average confirmation score was 8,23 and the average ridden abilities score was 8,12. He is far from being alone in his work,

because his fiancée Sylvía Sigurbjörnsdóttir is his coworker. “The work is a cooperation between me and Sylvía. She plans everything and has an overview of every aspect of what happens outside the track. When a rider has 20-30 horses on a breeding show, it is very important to have someone holding everything together, stay in touch with owners, make sure everyone is one time and mind the warming up and so on. We emphasize on not being late, even though we have many horses. Our experience has taught us how to do it and I have her so much so thank.” Understandably, the breeding show season is quite busy for Árni, Sylvía and their staff. But is it a hard job and stressful? “It is a lot of work and long days, especially in the spring. I don’t find extra pressure or stress, I always put a lot of press on myself to try to do the very best I can. I realize that I carry a huge responsibility because people trust me for their best horses, and I want to resolve each project as well as possible. I admit that I will not be able to work in this tempo forever, but while you are young and fresh it is easy. My interest in it is so big, and that gets me pretty far on a daily basis.” What do you think about the breeding system and the new changes? “I think that many positive things are in motion and we are on the right path. Of course, there is always a question of technical implementations. The main thing in my mind is that we should focus on evaluating the abilities of each horse and not

the training, since that is a factor that cannot be inherited. We should also focus on the younger horses and at the age of 5 or 6 we should have all the necessary information on the horse. We ought to make the gap between generations smaller instead of bigger. About the changes, I am not sure that it was necessary to lower the weight on confirmation. On the other hand, I find the emphasis in the confirmation sector much better than before, with the increased knowledge on what the horse has to have to be able to perform under a rider. About the act loosen rein, that should maybe have been put on the score 9,5-10, and then we can ask ourself, if we have a condition to put some weight on the slow tempo tölt.” What are your hopes for 2021? “I just hope that the world will recuperate from COVID-19 and things become as close to normal as possible, so that we can hold shows and tournaments. On this occasion, I want to send my best thanks to Þorvaldur Kristjánsson former breeding leader. He has done great work in his years for the breeding of the Icelandic horse and really put effort in the changes that have been made. I think he has brought breeders, riders and judges closer to one another and made the conversation better and more positive. At the same time I wish Elsa Albertsdóttir all the best in her work as a new breeding leader and I congratulate her on carrying on the work for us breeders.”

Nominated for Breeding rider of the year Aðalheiður Anna Guðjónsdóttir, Árni Björn Pálsson, Helga Una Björnsdóttir Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson, Ævar Örn Guðjónsson 45

Jakob and Konsert frá Hofi

The rider of year 2020 Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson

Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson is the rider of the year for the second time, but he also received the awards in 2017. “I can’t say that it is a goal each year to get this title and I admit that I hadn’t thought about it much in the special year 2020 was, where we couldn’t hold Landsmót or Icelandic Championships. But I look at it as a certain bonus to the things I achieved last year, and the honour to be awarded is great because there are so many great riders in Iceland,” says Jakob when asked about his goals for each competition season.

fi. Photo: Henk Peterse 47

Jakob’s achievements last year were quite extensive, which shows how diverse he is as a rider. He was nominated in two categories, both as a breeding and sport rider. He showed 40 horses in 46 performances in breeding assessments. Their average age was 5,8 years, average total was 8,12, confirmation 8,34 and ridden abilities 8,00. Only 2% of the horses had any injuries after the show, which is a very low rate. Jakob took part in the biggest tournaments last year and he is among the top riders in most disciplines in the masters class. His best time last year in the 100m pace was 7,57 riding Jarl frá Kílhrauni. “Great results demand good work, and we work well together her at Fákshólar and we have great facilities and people, and then of course the horses are excellent.” Is it complicated to have so many things going on instead of focusing on fewer things? “It’s really all based on the same foundation, general training and the development of horses, and then you have to find them a role that fits, breeding, racing, sport or gæðingakeppni. Training is almost always the same before you set a special goal with each horse.” What do you think of the changes on the breeding assessment system? “I have been rather positive toward these changes and I find that they are built on the condition of taking us in the right direction in the breeding and choosing for breeding, horses that are in a marketing sense suitable and enjoyable to have. Some kind of implementations can be further discussed, like loosen the reins, which I think we could reconsider, at least partly. The idea behind it is good and the fact that the judges, 48

riders and breeders think about the self-carrying horse. There may come a time when we can take it out again. Before horses got away with running through the assessment, but I find that the changes prevent that now.” In the sport section, Jakob reached great results, especially riding two horses, Hálfmáni frá Steinsholti and Konsert frá Hofi. He also competed on Ernir frá Efri-Hrepp in PP1 and got an 8,08 and took part in T2 riding Vallarsól frá Völlum. “Hálfmáni is a great gæðingur from my own breeding, and I aim for the national team and the WC in Denmark with him,” says Jakob asked for his goals with Hálfmáni this year. Konsert has now left the country, wasn’t it hard to see him go? „Yes, I miss him, he was a unique horse that sometimes tested his trainer, but also taught me a lot. He gave me great and memorable moments and is one of the best I have trained.” What do you think about the status in the sport competition? “The diversity in riders is excellent and that really pushes us forward. I know that many of our judges are great and surely doing their best, but sometimes I wonder if they can follow up on the rapid development that is going on when it comes to the art of riding. It may be unfair to expect them to spend enormous amount of time to increase their knowledge since judging is their second job. I think that side can be reinforced and I want to say, that many of them are extremely good and are really keeping up with everything that is going on.”

Jakob and Hálfmáni frá Steinsholti. Photo: Nicki Pfau What are thoughts for 2021? “In many ways 2020 was a good year for us horse people and I think we were quite lucky compared to other sports. We have had a good year, even though Landsmót could not be held, which in 50

many ways was an understandable decision. Personally, I would have liked us to try to hold Landsmót, but with different conditions than we are used to,” says Jakob, the rider of the year 2020.

Lightness in movement and mind

Sustainable athletes

Champions

Education

Winner of breeders show at Landsmót 2018

Upbringing in natural conditions

Glampi frá Ketilsstöðu Photo: Bjarney Anna

um and Julio Borba.

Speaking the same language

On Saturday, the 8th of February a riding demonstration took place from morning to night. This demonstration was called Modern Equestrianism. In the evening a Galashow was held. Julio Barba was responsible for this day along with his co-workers, Olil Amble, Bergur Jónsson and Hafliði Halldórsson. A lot of riders and horses participated in both the demonstration as well as the Galashow. Fákasel was full of guests as all the tickets sold out in presale. Photos by Bjarney Anna Þórsdóttir 53

Julio in rein work with a young stallion. Photo: Bjarney Anna

Emphasize on quality work In the beginning of the demonstration Julio Borba adressed the importance of using the same language during all communication with the horse, from the very beginning. What he means by this is to gain the horse’s understanding we need to use the same aid-system from the beginning. From when we first approach the horse in his pen and all the way through training. This way we get the horse to trust us as a leader with respect rather than fear.

Prepare for rein work In the next part of the demonstration, Brynja Amble and Elin Holst walked the three-year-old horse Garpur frá Hellubæ into the riding hall. The goal was to teach a young horse to walk alongside the rider in preparation for rein work. It is important to emphasize that the horse 54

respects the rider’s personal space and walks alongside him relaxed but focused. In this example you could clearly see the importance of using body language to give the horse a signal of whether he should stop or continue walking. Following this Garpur was lead in a circle. Julio does not use circular pen because he wants to teach the horse to be able to walk in a circle in a big open space in a riding hall. In the beginning you can use the walls of the riding halls for guidance and support, that way more trainers can help the rider in the ring to have control over the horse. They emphasized that the horse walked with correct posture from the beginning. Soon after the horse walks calmly in circular rein work, side reins are used to guide the horse to correct posture. The horse is not forced in any way as the side reins are loose. Before adding the side straps

Julio and Brynja Amble Gísladóttir working with Grandi frá Syðri-Gegnishólum. Photo: Bjarney Anna

the horse is prepared for the reins by the trainer putting his hands softly on the horse’s ring bit. This way the horse gives in and agrees to the soft reins. The side reins assist the horse by softening the top line in the neck, lifting the back and encourage the hind legs under neath his body. This way the horse is better prepared to hold a rider.

Introducing the rider The next act was how to introduce the horse to the rider. For this act Grandi frá Syðri-Gegnishólum was introduced. Before Brynja Amble sat on Grandi‘s back, Julio lead him in a circle in an open space in the riding hall. Grandi is nearly four years old and had experienced this work before but for the sake of the demonstration they did this again like it was the first time. In this example you could clearly see the importance of the former act because Grandi obviously trusted and respected the rider. The trainer of the circle controls the direction and size of the circle, the rider who is sitting on the horse follows the horse’s movements and either sits in a right or left seat depending on which applies at the time. When the circle rein is removed and the riders´ hands take over, the trainer of the circle is still standing in the middle and helps with signals and aids and that way increases the horse’s understanding.

Correct posture The final act before lunch break was when Julio lead Álfgrímur frá Syðri-Gegnishólum in a circle and demonstrated how he got the horse to put more weight on its hind legs and that way train the horse in correct posture with its health and durability in mind.

Gráfeldur og Bergur Jónsson Photo: Bjarney Anna

Meaningful to see the young horses After the lunch break the development of the horse was continued to be demonstrated and now it was time for working with the horse in hand. Olil Amble and Ljósálfur frá Syðri-Gegnishólum demonstrated to the audience various exercises. They mainly stuck to The Four Circle of Newcastle which is named after its originator, William Cavendish, who was born in the 17th century and was the duke of Newcastle. These exercises are performed with the horse on a curve and are meant to able the horse to carry the weight either on the inner or outer hind leg,

for example the shoulder-in and travers. A lot of emphasis was put on the horse’s well-being during exercises, whether they are collecting or flexible, because only then the exercise actually pays off.

Tölt and balance Next it was time for Bergur Jónsson to ride into the hall in Gráfeldur frá Syðri-Gegnishólum which is four years old. The goal was to demonstrate how you can teach a horse to tölt without making the tölt into some kind of punishment by forcing it to do it. Julio talked about how the horse had to enjoy itself on tölt and little by little gain balance. Naturally, Gráfeldur was still imbalanced in tölt. On the other hand it was very soft and his topline relaxed and in moments behind the vertical line. Julio and Dr. Susanne Braun veterinarian explained the difference between rollkur and when horses are soft in their topline and with their heads vertical or right behind the vertical line. In rollkur horses are forced below the vertical line by hand and at the same time pressure is put

on them to walk underneath them with their hind legs and in this situation their topline is tense. It was necessary for this discussion to take part and explain to equestrians that there is a significant difference between the two. It was meaningful for all equestrians to realize that in certain stages of training it is normal for horses to be imbalanced in some gaits and having more weight in their front legs. Out in nature horses carry more weight in their front part. This is why trainers put so much effort into training horses to put the weight in their back part in order to increase their health and durability as riding horses. This kind of demonstration could and should be done more often. Showing horses which are in different stages of training improves the minds of riders by showing us that there are a lot of obstacles to overcome in order to fully train a horse. Horse training can be compared to a child taking its first steps in musical school, first a basic understanding has to be built before the child can eventually play Johann Sebastian Bach‘s symphonies seamlessly.

The amazing group of staff, riders and volunteers. Photo: Bjarney Anna 58

Elin Holst riding Frami frá Ketilsstöðum and Brynja Amble riding Goði frá Ketilsstöðum well dressed up. Photo: Bjarney Anna Every trainers final goal is a collected horse which walks straight with a clean rhythm, with its neck as the highest point and the nose in front of the vertical line.

Promlem solving Next, Ragnhildur Haraldsdóttir, Kristín Lárusdóttir and Jakob Svavar Sigurðsson came into the hall one by one with horses and had Julio Barba assist them with their horses which all had different kind of problems. At times it was hard to see what exactly they were looking for, but the biggest learning point was, that sometimes one problem leads to another. Riders come forward to get answers to certain problems which are not necessarily there in that moment, which is why the lesson has to flow with the feeling of the rider and the trainer.

Off to pace! Next it was time for pace training. Bergur came into the hall riding Stinna frá Ketilsstöðum and instructed guests about pace training. Same as the other acts, the horses well-being, happiness and relaxation is the most important step when pace training. A content horse which walks forward willingly learns to pace quickly and in the beginning the sprints are short. Elin Holst showed Spurning frá Syðri-Gegnishólum in pace and took a few asperous sprints.

Speed changes in tölt Next on the agenda was a competition in speed changes and those who participated were Sigursteinn Sumarliðason, Kári Steinsson and Kristín Lárusdóttir. Sigríður Pjetursdóttir FEIF international judge was asked to judge the 59

Live music performed by the radiant Jóhanna Guðrún and Davíð Sigurgeirsson. Photo: Bjarney Anna competition and at the same time justify her numbers. The riders were asked to display their opinions and Julio Barba was also asked to describe his speed changing experience. Sigríður started by explaining what judges seek for when speed changes are shown and after she had explained each of the riders demonstrated a few speed changes. The idea behind having the judge and the rider conversate is great but the question is whether it was suitable for this demonstration. In the end Julio rode Glampi frá Ketilsstöðum and demonstrated a typical training session. It was very fun to be able to observe Julio and Glampi because their interplay was absolutely beautiful.

New standard In the evening the Galashow took place and you can say that new standards were set. Live music and Jóhanna Guðrún’s singing set a festive tone to the show and sometimes the music and equestrianism sent shivers down the authors spine. Most of the demonstration acts were phenomenal and it was clear that riders put a lot of effort into professional and beautiful riding. The whole day was great fun, informative and an honour to those who were responsible for it. Julio Borba is humble towards the Icelandic horse and the methods he has to offer are thought out to have the horse’s best interest in the foreground. This day emphasized the quality of the Icelandic horse which seems to be able to solve all roles that it’s offered. Pictures - Bjarney Anna Þórsdóttir.

Commentators

Fanney Hrund Hilmarsdóttir I think it was very strong to give the audience the context; that is, to show the training process from a young horse to an educated horse. It is quite common at riding demonstration to go over „a traditional training session “of a well-educated horse. After the demonstration the observers go back to their stables filled with ambition from what they have experienced, only without a clue which steps are necessary to take towards a comparable goal. The incremental passage of the training process did not only give the spectator tools to work on his horse, but most importantly a well-organized

toolbox. The fact is, it is not enough to have putty and paint when you go home and cannot find anything in the crowded storage and then end up painting before using the putty. I also absolutely loved Julio training Álfgrímur on the ring. That looked like unformal, flowing dance. What has always fascinated me about Julio, is that he doesn’t use the exercises just to exercise or the form just for the form, but he seems to use it to improve mental and physical balance and strength. To watch him use his body and energy in a diverse way was very enlightening and is only done by trainers that have extreme knowledge and insight into the movements of the horse, and they also understand what each emphasis and stimulation brings to the overall strength and balance. The Gala Show was a really enjoyable experience and the highlight of it was the performance of the couple in Syðri-Gegnishólar, Bergur Jónsson and Olil Amble. At the end of the day, I felt the result was that it is good to have a few very good tools in the box – tools that both horse and trainer knows well. These tools are used in a skilled and predictive way, in all circumstances, all through the training process. That does not necessary mean that all horses will become great, but they will definitely be more likely to become the best, content version of the horse they have ability to be. And what more can you ask? I could certainly not ask for a better day. Thanks for the inspiration, the tools and the toolbox. 61

Ingibergur Árnason I thought is was a great demonstration day and very interesting to see how much work is done with the young horses before anyone eventually gets on them. I also noticed how early on they start using side reins and with all the accuracy in the aids, both from the reins and the trainers body language. The only downside I can think of is that it was too short, because I had so many questions after watching the demonstrations and taking everything in that I experienced. So hopefully we will get a chance of another day like this. The Gala Show was incredible and a new flavor in indoor shows. These shows have often been in that way, that riders ride like maniacs to some heavy metal rock music, where the horse jumps 62

up in the corners and you get the feeling that this has to be the riders very last ride forever! But in this show there was a totally different tone set, very professional riding and the art of riding in the foreground with live music. Three acts were my favorite ones: Olil and Bergur very professionally riding their well trained and great gædingar, Sylvía Sigurbjörnsdóttir and Árni Björn Pálsson were great on top tölters and a well rehearsed act, and then the very fast sprints in pace by Davíð Jónsson and Sigursteinn Sumarliðason through the riding hall. This amazing day was well organized in an ambitious way, where professionalism and sincerity were shining through it all. Hopefully this was only the beginning of something more.

Olil Amble On behalf of the organizing team, I would like to thank for all the good wishes we have received after the riding demonstration and Gala Show held in Fákasel. Tickets sold out in the presale and fewer people were able to watch than wanted. We found that everything went according to plan and we really felt that we got to share good things with our audience. In our opinion, this approach with the horse and audience is something that we horse people should do more of. Find a time and place to get together, enjoy our amazing horse, learn to appreciate more than high leg action and speed. Our horse is a tough Viking with excellent speed range and an accomplished Gæðingur. He is also a great leisure horse and he can also

be a sensitive ballerina and danse around doing all kinds of exercises. We also found the need for more training and higher appreciation of the slow gaits and by doing so we lift our horse up to the pedestal it deserves. By hosting the ridingdemonstration we wanted to share with everyone what we have been dedicating in our art of riding in the last 15 years. Julio Borba our instructor, has been riding since he can remember, and his father and uncle along with Luís Valenca were his most important mentors. Julio was a rider in the Royal Equestrian Academy of the Portuguese Royal Court for 12 years and performed all the exercises riding horses of Lusitano breed. Since he left the Academy he has been travelling the world as a riding instructor and has already made a huge impact on the training of the Icelandic horse. Our goal for the big day in Fákasel was that everyone would be comfortable, both our staff, volunteers, riders and guests. We emphasized on being able to warm the horses up indoors, which is an important basis for modern indoor riding/ training. We thank all of our great sponsors, who supported the event with funds and work, without such help we would not have been able to pull this off, but it was a strong cooperation where many got together and worked hard so we could do things like we wanted. For that we are eternally grateful. Many thanks to you all and to the guests, this dream of ours came true thanks to you. 63

An ambitious young rider Eiðfaxi enjoyes stories from horse people everywhere and at any age, because they all have the passion for the Icelandic horse in common. Kristín Eir Holaker Hauksdóttir is a 10-year-old rider who lives with her family on a horse farm called Skáney. Skáney is located in Borgarfjörður West Iceland about 90 minutes drive from Reykjavik. Skáney is actually one of the oldest horse breeding farms in Iceland and beginning was 70 years ago when Kristín‘s great grandfather started the breeding. After that her grandparents Birna Hauksdóttir and Bjarni Marinósson took over the farm and now her parents Haukur Bjarnason and Randy Holaker are actively taking part in running the farm today. Skáney is a busy farm because sheep and cows are also bred there and 64

like on every farm in Iceland, dogs and cats are an essential part of the animal life on the farm. So obviously Kristín Eir is born into a family of horse enthusiasts and she has been riding from a very young age and as soon as she was big enough, she would sneak out and go riding alone on her favorite horse. At Skáney you will also find a riding school and young riders come there for clinics and lessons by Kristín’s parents. A riding school has to have solid and trustworthy horses and Kristín Eir helps a lot with their training as well as all kinds of other work that has to be done in the school. Kristín Eir likes to compete in equestrian sport and she wants to take part in the League KB mótaröðin next winter, and she is already an Icelandic

champion in dressage, only 10 years old, competing against kids aged 10-13 years. Kristín has ambition to be a great rider and horse breeder who loves the farm life, and we are most certainly going to keep a good eye on her in the future. Kristín answered a few questions for Eiðfaxi: Birthday: July 20th Zodiac sign: Leo Age: 10 years old Home: Skáney, Borgarfjörður School: The elementary Grunnskóli Borgarfjarðar, Kleppjárnsreykir Horse club: Borgfirðingur Other hobbies: Basketball, Karate and playing piano Most fun to do with the horse: Compete, horse tours and ride bareback. Favorite gait: Gallop and pace The most fun horse: Dama frá Skáney, five gaited mare Favorite stallion: Sólon frá Skáney and Ellert frá Baldurshaga Your first horse: Sól frá Skáney. My grandparents gave me her as a christening gift. She is the same age as me. Most fun horse related memory: The Landsmót in Hólar 2016 was so much fun! My mum was pregnant with my sister Sara and we slept in the Camper which I love. I liked to visit the Hólar University and being there for so many days with them. We played in a theme park, saw a play and went to a ball. Role models: Mum, dad and Jakob Svavar

I am actually rather shy Hafliði Halldórsson celebrates 60 years

The word entrepreneur is sometimes used when describing men who not only have a vivid imagination and great ambition but are also driven to make their ideas come to life. Hafliði Halldórsson is one of those men and he has often flown quite high in ideology and implementation. Recently Hafliði turned sixty years old and sat down with Eiðfaxi to reflect on his very eventful life. 67

Good old days. Hafliði with his collegues in the Riders association in the Fákur riding hall in 1990. From left: Hafliði, Þórir Örn Grétarsson, Maaike Burggrafer and Hinrik Bragason. Photo: Eiðfaxi.

The beginning Hafliði Halldórsson was born on the 7th of February in Reykjavík in 1960 and was the fourth born out of six siblings. „My mother is from Hergilsey in Breiðafjörður and my dad was from Reykjavík. The first years of my life we lived in Fossvogur area in Reykjavík and I attended school at Breiðagerðisskóli. No one in my family was riding horses during those years but by that time I was completely fascinated by horses. I walked down to the stables at Neðri-Fákur.“ At the time the riding club Fákur had the club’s stable there as well as in Laugardalur where the Reykjavík Park and Zoo is now, Hafliði was a regular at both places. 68

„I walked around the stables and spotted some beautifully coloured horses that in my dreams ‘belonged’ to me. I got free bread at the nearby bakeries and fed it to the horses. One time I had stuffed some bread inside my jacket and crawled on all fours along the stable floor. Before I knew someone had snatched me up and I was hanging by my jacket. I looked up and saw that it was a horse that had managed to get a hold of me. There I was, hanging from its mouth for a little while until one of the shepherds saw me and nudged the horse with a broom stick. The horse let me go and I fell to the ground. This is one of my first horse related memory”. To begin with, Hafliði‘s equestrianism consisted of combing and holding on to horses that he got permission to do. This led to his first riding

course with Guðrún Fjeldsted, a riding instructor who was located in Neðri-Fákur stable area. When he was twelve years old, he went to the countryside to a farm called Innsti-Vogur near Akranes, to work for Þórólfur Pétursson. „Me and my friend, Jón Árnason, went there together to work. Today Jón owns a horse farm which is called Skipaskagi and is located at a farm called Litla-Fellsöxl. Me and Jón stayed with Þórólfur at Innsti-Vogur for two summers. The second summer Þórólfur was moving to the north of Iceland. I was asked to drive the belongings all the way from Innsti-Vogur to Hjaltastaðir. Among those things were three ancient and open tractors with rear trailers which the rest of the househould things were stacked upon. My packed lunch for the trip consisted of milk in a bottle and biscuits from Frón and with that I made my way from Akranes to Skagafjörður in the North, about 300 kilometers. I got to Skagafjörður in the middle of the night and took the bus from Varmahlíð back to Akranes at 8 in the morning. When I got back to Innsti-Vogur the next fully stacked tractor was waiting for me. I also drove the second tractor North as well as the third. That summer I was 13 years-old.“ The following winters Hafliði started to work more at Fákur, e.g. as a shepherd and shoeing horses as well as starting to train young horses. „At that time Fákur is an extensive organisation with community stables for hundreds of horses and numerous men on their payroll. The late Bergur Magnússon was the chief executive officer, CEO. He was very strict and made great demands on the employees. Him and I got along well and became great friends. He trusted me enough to take over Fákur‘s training center which was a great deal back then and there I was, practically

still a teenager, made responsible for the operation of the training center. It was a very i nformative time for me, and you can say that there are three men that are responsible for my discipline, hard work and finishing what I start. These men are Bergur, Bogdan Kowalczyk former coach of the national handball team and Sigurbjörn Bárðarson. Each of them a hard-working man that made great demands on himself and on those who worked for him.“ Not everyone knows that in his teenage years Hafliði was among the most promising handball players in Iceland. He trained with the handball clubs Íþróttafélag Reykjavíkur and Víkingur and was in both the under-17 and under-21 national teams. Inevitably it came to choosing between handball and training horses. “I chose training horses over handball purely because it was a profession while handball was a hobby. At the time there wasn’t any money in handball, so the choice was easy in the end. However I am still a highly interested handball fan and I greatly enjoy watching the national team which my friend Guðmundur Guðmundsson coaches with favorable reputation”.

Horse training takes over In the early 80‘s Hafliði was intensely occupied with training horses at Fákur where there was never a lack of work. „The Day of the Horse in 1980 is memorable for me because I had the honour to showcase the monarch himself, Hrafn frá Holtsmúla at Melavöllur. It was quite the experience for a young trainer, something I will never forget”. In the winter 1984 -1985 Hafliði started working for Sigurbjörn Bárðarson in Víðidalur and stayed with him until 1988. 69

„The time I had with Diddi was superb. He trusted me completely but at the same time made demands on me to withstand that trust. With Diddi I learned that practise truly makes perfect. Sigurbjörn was superior to other horse trainers at the time in a way that he progressively trained to succeed; he was hard working, conscientious and never touched alcohol or tobacco. All of those things made Sigurbjörn gain an advantage which reflects in his great success. With Diddi I got to know and train great horses that were amazing to work with and Diddi had a supreme selection of horses in his stable at this time”.

Víðidalurinn and Sæla At the end of his years with Sigurbjörn Hafliði decided to buy a stable in Víðidalur the Fákur stable area and work independently training horses.

This unique painting of Sæla frá Gerðum has an honor spot in the house at Ármót. Photo: Petra Lönnqvist/Hestafoto. 70

„Me and my father-in-law bought a stable together in road D-tröð. Me and his daughter Inga had been together for a long time and by that time our first children were born so we had to become financially stable. The years in D-tröð were fun. There I had young people to my assistance, e. g. Ólafur Ásgeirsson, Steingrímur Sigurðsson, Jón Gíslason, Ragnheiður Samúelsdóttir and many more. I did not train many horses for others but instead I focused on buying untrained horses to build up and sell. My income from this was quite good. At the same time, I was teaching a little bit overseas in Sweden, I did not want to be wandering between countries while having horses in training in Iceland that had already been paid for. I have always had a hard time understanding how some riders can be overseas for days on end while having horses to attend to at home in Iceland. While overseas they are not attending to the horses they have been trusted with and paid for”. During those years Hafliði got a mare to train which would end up greatly affecting his whole career as a rider and breeder. „Like many people know, I have a severe passion for hunting and fishing and feels like it’s just in my blood and I think it may even be increasing. Many times I sought after hunting geese in Austur-Landeyjar area in South Iceland, near the farm Bakkakot and Ármót, because usually there were thousands of them on the fields there in the fall. On these trips I renewed my friendship with Ársæll Jónsson, called Sæli, who then lived in Bakkakot and now in Eystra-Fróðholt just next to Ármót. Sæli and I first got to know each other in the 80’ when I bought a few horses of him, among others the brilliant Saigon frá Bakkakoti. Anyway, on one of my visits Sæli asks me to break

Stóra Hof Breeding farm Bæring Sigurbjörnsson & Kolbrún Jónsdóttir

www.storahof.com storahof@gmail.com Stóra Hof Bæring Sigurbjörnsson

in a pinto mare that he bought from Gerðar in Austur-Landeyjar. At the time the mare was fiveyears-old and had had three foals already! I said yes to Sæli and got the mare to Reykjavík. In the beginning she showed no signs of being talented since she lacked muscles, only went around in a very pacy tölt and barely had any leg action. So I usually trained her early in the mornings so as few people as possible would see me riding her. This went on for weeks and I didn’t think she would grow at all. In March I am out riding Sæla and passing the riding hall in Víðidalur, which had newly been built. There were some kind of loud construction going on and it was like she suddenly woke up from a Sleeping Beauty sleep! She begins to stamp down in pure tölt with amazingly high leg action and it just gave me goosebumps to experience this change! I just sat there afraid to move and we kept on going for about two kilometers. Then I stopped, got off and walked back to the stables because I wanted to leave her happy and calm after this special experience of ours. This was a turning point in the training, and she started to show me all her amazing abilities from that point on. We had great times together, she is a huge part in my success as a rider and is unforgettable to me. Ársæll and I bred her son together, Sær frá Bakkakoti, sired by Orri frá Þúfu. Sær is quite the unique horse like his mother and has proven to be a successful stallion”.

The Horse School After a few good years in Víðidalur Hafliði decided to change things up and move his horse business out of the urban area. The winter from 1997-1998 he had a training center in Langholt í Flóa, near the town Hveragerði. The following winter he moved again and took a part in a new project. 72

„Örn Karlsson was building a great facility at Ingólfshvoll in Ölfus and following that people started to think about how that facilty could be used to make the equestrianism in Iceland better. It was then that the idea of a horse school came up, Hestaskólinn á Ingólfshvoli. We thought of The Horse School as an economic choice compared to Hólaskóli, Hólar University. The studies at Hólaskóli were certainly detailed but also time consuming and expensive. We had this idea of a three-month long course which we would compress the curriculum and give young people the chance to get to know all sides of equestrianism without having to commit to a school for many years. We had amazing professionals with great experience join our team. I can name a few like Atli Guðmundsson, Olil Amble, Þórður Þorgeirsson, Einar Öder Magnússon, advisor Ágúst Sigurðsson and veterinarian Páll Stefánsson. We had a lot of courage and registrations for the school exceeded our expectations.“ The winter from 1998-1999 was the first operating winter of The Horse School and Hafliði says that it went well despite having to deal with some difficulties in the beginning. In the fall of 1999 some students declared how dissatisfied they were with Hafliði‘s teaching strategies and harsh training of the young horses which were used for teaching. This got to the media and started up some pretty heated discussion. To sum it up a reconciliation was made in order for the school to be able to keep on operating. This reconciliation consisted of Hafliði withdrawing from day-to-day teaching for the most part. The School did unfortunately not manage to survive these accusations and was shut down in 2000. „If I had known beforehand how things would

evolve, I would have never been a part of the project, never! We brought this new idea to the table and it came clear early on that certain institutions and officials were against our idea from the beginning. Some people thought we were trying to exploit Hólaskóli and the teaching strategies there, but I always looked at The Horse School as a conventional alternative to Hólaskóli. I can say that the chairman of the Trainer’s Association at the time, Ólafur Hafsteinn Einarsson was completely opposed to the idea, therefore all chances of partnership were

impossible. The dissatisfaction of the students was also completely blown out of proportion by the media and Jónas Kristjánsson the editor of DV had a lot to do with that. I will gladly admit that I made some mistakes in my job as principal but none that deserved such a harsh attack by the media. The case ended in front of the District Court where I was cleared of all charges but thedamage was done and The Horse Schools reputation was ruined. The idea of The Horse School was and still is great, of that I am convinced.”

Ármót At the turn of the century Hafliði‘s life took yet another turn. The Horse School had perished and as they say: When one door closes another one opens. „Around this time I bought the land Ármót and that is a story to tell. I was traveling overseas judging horses and out of the blue I got a phone call from a girl, Josefine Evert, who had taken a riding class with me a long time ago. She asked if I could make a pitstop in Stockholm on my way home to Iceland and I decide to do so. I had no idea why she wanted me to make that pitstop but at the airport an older man welcomes me with the words „Hei Haffe, vil du kaffe?“ (Hey Haffi, want some coffee?). That man was Dan Evert. We talked and he brought up the errand, which was to find a mare for him in Iceland and pair her with a stallion. That was easily retrieved on my behalf. Shortly after that he wanted to buy another mare and that’s how it snowballed. Soon he proposed to me an idea that we should buy a land together in Iceland. I was hesitant at first, but he convinced me that it was better for everyone to have their own rather than having to rely on others. I start to look around for land and Dan completely trusts me with that. Location, size, housing, price? When I asked him his answer was always „It‘s up to you.“ A word had started to spread out that I was looking for a piece of land and Gunnar Jóhannsson contacts me and offers me Ármót, a land he had recently acquired at an auction. This was a land I had dreamt of having for a long time, but I never thought that dream would come true. It was big and hat lots of perks and at a great location. At this time, it was very neglected, all the houses, fences and fields were more or less ruined. I saw great potential in the land nonetheless and we 74

Hafliði and the riders at Ármót, Leó Geir Arnarson, Martine Sverresvold and Sigursteinn Sumarliðason. Photo: Petra Lönnqvist/Hestafoto.

L L Ó H S I ÍB

Íbishóll is an Icelandic horse breeding farm in Skagafjörður. We get approximately 30 foals every year which we train and sell. We also sell some of the young horses before they are started under saddle. The farm Íbishóll is approximately 310 ha and situated close to Varmahlið in Skagafjörður, North West Iceland and is well suited for horse breeding. The horses have their summer grazing up in the mountains which we think is an important experience for them (especially the young ones) to make them strong and healthy and be able to behave like “wild” horses during summer at least! Our breeding goal is a fivegaited horse with a lot of controllable and fun spirit, but we also love good fourgaiters. We like horses that are roomy, supple and with big movements. The first famous horse breed from Íbishóll was Fengur (M: Gnótt frá Ytra-Skörðugili and F: Fafnir frá Fagranesi). Fengur won the Tölt competition at the World Championship in 1999 ridden by Johann Skúlason. The company Íbishóll ehf. is own and run by Magnús Bragi Magnússon and Elisabeth Jansen and we would much appreciate if you contact us by facebook (Ibisholl) or e-mail: ibisholl@simnet.is or just give us a call (+345) 8623788! Magnús and Elisabeth

ended up buying Ármót”. Following the buy, we began constructing and had to tear down most of the houses. We also had to clean the ditches and put-up new fences among other things.“ Hafliði says that he definitely wondered what mess he had gotten himself into. „I can vividly recall when Dan came to visit Ármót for the first time. At the time demolition was in full force and the land did not look like it would ever be suitable for horse farming. Inga, my wife at the time, asked Dan what he thought of the land and after some consideration he just said: „I think I know that Haffi knows what needs to be done.“ He did not have any longing to interfere

with the construction himself. He trusted me 100% the whole time.“ The construction at Ármót started early in 2001. It was formally over two years later with an opening ceremony on January 18th in 2003. It is believed that around 5000 people visited Ármót that day. It is safe to say that Ármót was the best horse keeping facility in the country at the time. High ceilings, wide hallways, pens for well over a hundred horses. The biggest two horse pens were around 20 square meters, enormous residence and a riding hall to name a few.

The purchase of Ármót and all the construction there were extremely expensive. Hafliði says that the total cost was never formally calculated but it is clear that it was hundreds of million ISK. „When construction was in full force, I remember there were around sixty people working and I was paying about six or seven millions per week. It was so special and unbelievable really that Dan just transferred more and more millions to me without asking a question or making a comment about the construction. It was just unsolicited. The only thing he wanted to know when we talked was what the weather was like and whether the horses were doing OK! I made sure from the start to hire an accountant and a lawyer to keep track of finance. It wasn’t until years later, shortly after Dan passed away in, that I found out that he wasn‘t and had never been registered as an owner of Ármót. Until then I always thought we owned Ármót together. All these assets he had contributed were a so-called subordinated loan which meant I was the only registered owner and could refund that loan whenever I pleased without any interest or additional expenses. The trust he had for me was so much and I did everything in my power to stand up to that trust. I have often wondered why a man I did not know at all until I met him at the airport in Stockholm turned out so amazing for me. He only had one daughter, had never been married so I think he just thought of me as his son, however weird that may sound. He also showed great interest in Iceland, the nature and The Icelandic Sagas and really enjoyed visiting Ármót and the horses. We really cared for each other and I look at him as one of the greatest and most benefactors in my life.”

Great friends! Hafliði and the amazing Portuguese riding instructor Julio Borba. Photo: private collection.

Ármót is a special place The idea behind Ármót is built on two pillars, selling horses and tourism and the business has worked out well. „I am proud of my job at Ármót“ Hafliði says. „Both the fact that we completely gave it a new life after having been neglected and the fact that business has been great the last years. Tourism obviously offers a lot of opportunities such as horseback riding, angling, shooting, bird watching in the clean and pure nature all around. Ármót is a special place and I have immense faith in what can be done there and there are already some future plans of more development there. Up until now horse selling and breeding has been the base of the business. I have done very well in that field since I only sell good horses. 77

I have no interest in selling hundreds of horses a year, I would rather sell fewer good horses. I have never had to advertise my horses for sale, my reputation has been enough for me thus far. I have also been lucky with which stallions I choose for breeding, especially with Sær and Ás frá Ármóti. Sær has proved himself as a breeding horse many times and Ás has also been great. His offspring is gorgeous and easy to train, have a great temperament and solid gaits. In the beginning I had 25 mares in breeding but I have reduced that number to 13 and the idea is to reduce that number even more rather than increase it. It is the same idea as the horse sale, I want to focus on quality and put in more hours of work in each individual in order for the value to increase.”

National Team It is not possible to look over Hafliði‘s life without going over his career with the National Team, both as a rider and a coach. His first World Championship was in Austria in 1987. He competed on Ísak frá Runnum. He also competedat the WC in Austria in 2001 and won the Tölt Horn for Team Iceland on the gorgeous horse Valíant frá Heggsstöðum. That win was the endpoint of Hafliði‘s competitive career. „I am the kind of guy that if I compete it is the first place or nothing. It has never been enough for me just to partake or ‘just’ getting through to the finals. The win with Valíant in Austria was a certain highlight in my competitive career and it is always a good thing to finish at the top. Sigurður Sæmundsson asked me and the late Einar Öder Magnússon to help him direct the national team. It was truly an honour to be asked to help the National Team and our collaboration was truly incredible because both Sigurður and 78

A victory moment at the WC2001 in Austria. Hafliði had just won T1 riding Valíant frá Heggsstöðum. With them in the picture are Guðni Ágústsson minister af agriculture at the time and his wife Margrét Hauksdóttir. Photo: Eiðfaxi.

Einar were honourable men. When Sigurður quit coaching the National Team Einar took over and lead the National Team at the WC in 2009, me and Einar then lead the National Team together at the WC in 2011, then I entirely took over and was the team leader at the WC 2013 in Berlin.” Hafliði says that the years he spent with the National Team were both a fun and giving time but at the same time he realized more the politics that surround the National Team. „It is a big boiling pot of politics and not always good,” he says. „There is a lot of advocacy there for certain members who more than anything want the control in their hands and unfortunately the National Team’s interests isn’t always in the first place. I, for example, suggested that we would establish a National Group by searching 80

for direct participation from the riding clubs to appoint the group. The team leader could then add to the group as he wanted. That, in my opinion, would have been a great benefactor for Icelandic equestrianism and it is a great recognition for riders to be picked for a team that way. This was not well liked at the time but when the new team leader took over it sounded like the greatest idea ever however weird that may sound. At the same time I don’t think we respected the Nordic Championship enough. It is like some people look at those tournaments as comfortable preparation tournaments for the WC but these tournaments are very strong and we should act like they are.“ The departure from the National Team was not how Hafliði had imagined.

„I had alot of fun with the National Team and considered my job there well done. I could have seen myself continuing to work for the National Team at least until the next World Championship but I did not get the support from the National Team Committee and that is how it ended. I think I know what went on behind the curtains and who were the main characters in that play. It is something those people have to have to themselves but I don’t feel bad towards any of them.”

The future On February 7th 2020 Hafliði turned sixty. When you reach a milestone like that in your life you will look back and reflect on what you have done with it but at the same time you look forward to the future. „I will continue the business I have at Ármót as long as I enjoy it. I am never lazy when it comes to work if I do say so myself, I work 16-18 hours each day and enjoy myself in the farm work. I like to have everything around me in perfect condition if I use a teaspoon, I will wash it immediately and put it back when I am done. Tidiness is something I was born with and some people say I am a bit particular regarding this and I just enjoy it. But everything has it’s lifespan and I don’t plan on growing old at Ármót. I have considered selling, I even had a couple of very good offers a few years back, but they didn’t quite reach my appraisal. I am not going to stress over selling and when the right offer comes I will agree to it.” But what is the magic number Hafliði won’t refuse?„I am not afraid to say it. I estimate the value of Ármót at one billion ISK.” Hafliði‘s personal life hasn‘t always been perfect through the decades but he says he is satisfied and at a good place today. 82

„I lived with Inga for over twenty years and together we have three grown children; Magnús, Hafþór and Hafrún and we even have three grandchildren. Inga is an amazing woman, and we are great friends and always have been. It probably wasn’t easy, living with me at that time, I was gone a lot regarding horses and hunting but she was very considerate and when we separated, it was all in great harmony. Today I am in a relationship with Helga Möller, stewardess and singer. We have been together for two years now. I remember Helga from when she was in the band Celsíus and played at the club back in the day. We were acquaintances but it wasn’t until New Years Eve in 2017 that I see her picture on Facebook and despite being a naturally shy guy I decide to leave a comment on her photo. She answers my comment almost immediately and we talk all through the night. I would say that our relationship is glorious and I hope she feels the same way.” Where will Hafliði be in ten years? „I have been extremely healthy all my life, haven’t even had a headache! There is actually a genetic heart disease in my family, so I am being monitored for that, but I have never felt anything related to that, thank God. I plan on being in full swing at seventy and I will definitely not be out of projects by that time. I still enjoy hunting a lot, maybe even more than I used to so I will have plenty to do. I might have reduced my business by then and moved from Ármót, maybe even set up a smaller facility with a few horses. Or I might even just buy a nice house in Portugal and become neighbours with my great friend Julio Borba! You never know where you are going to end up.”

Six memorable horses from Hafliði‘s career

Sæla frá Gerðum

Saigon (Sæþór) frá Bakkakoti Hrafn frá Holtsmúla Riding Hrafn was like riding a diffent breed. His strength and carriage was amazing! Strong gaits with so much speed and an excellent character. Hrafn is a milestone stallion in the breeding history of the Icelandic horse. I got many of his offspring to train and most of them were very good. Photo: Eiríkur Jónsson

Saigon was að horse I had in 1984-85 son of Ófeigur frá Flugumýri. Many of my colleagues may be surprised to see that name, but Saigon was a gæðingur, very clear and good gaits with good speed and high leg action. Photo: Eiríkur Jónsson

The queen herself, who has had the most impact on my career. She always draw attention, her radiation, extraordinary movements, amazing top line and head carriage, always positive and forward thinking. Our years together were like in a fairy tale, simple as that. Photo: Eiríkur Jónsson

Næla frá Bakkakoti Daughter of Sæla but in many parts unlike her mother. Her father was just some young stallion but she was incredible! Her character and courage was unbelievable. She would never blink in any condition, always forward. Photo: Eiðfaxi

Sær frá Bakkakoti Sær is a mix of two of the best horses in Iceland at that time, and that mix certainly worked out. We established a corporation around him when he was only three-days-old and his worth then was seven million ISK. Sær has excellent gaits and a solid character you can trust. A gæðingur that has put his mark on the breeding. Photo: Eiríkur Jónsson

Valíant frá Heggsstöðum One of the most beautiful creatures I have seen. Black, lots of mane and majestic with great big movements. You had to be dead not to be charmed looking at him. I think I won every single tölt tournament we took part in and a very sweet moment to get the Tölthorn in our final competition in 2001. Photo: Eiríkur Jónsson

Jarl frá Árbæjarhjáleigu with offsprings

The Breeding Day Eiðfaxi´s Breeding Day was held on the 9th of May at the show ground of Fákur riding club in Víðidalur Reykjavík. The weather really made a great day spectacular for riders, horses and guests. Eiðfaxi offered Live Stream from the event and the choice between English, German or Icelandic language. We were humble and happy to see how many subscribers logged on to our fairly priced event from more than twenty countries world wide. Many people also visited the show grounds, staying save remembering the 2m rule because of the COVID-19 pandemic and enjoyed beeing outside watching all the magnificent horses. Eiðfaxi wants to thank everyone who made this day memorable. These are the riders, breeders and horse owners and all the volunteers and staff, the Horses of Iceland project for collaborating with us when it came to marketing and Fákur as the generous hosts. The photos from The Breeding Day were taken by Gunnar Freyr for Horses of Iceland and Eiðfaxi. 87

Þröstur frá Kolsholti & Helgi Þór

Ás frá Strandarhöfuð & Ásmundur Ernir

Þristur frá Tungu & Aðalheiður Anna

Adrian frá Garðhorni á Þelamörk & Daníel Jónsson

Ýmir frá Heysholti & Hekla Katharína Kristinsdóttir

Ísak frá Þjórsárbakka & Helga Una Björnsdóttir

Þinur frá Enni & Ástríður Magnúsdóttir

Óðinn frá Hólum & Elísa Benedikta 89

Arthúr frá Baldurshaga & Teitur Árnason

Atlas frá Hjallanesi & Teitur Árnason

Alrún frá Dalbæ & Sigursteinn Sumarliðason

Askur frá Enni & Þórdís Erla

Lýsir frá Breiðstöðum & Brynja Kristinsdóttir

Kórall frá Hofi á Hofðaströnd & Flosi Ólafsson

Heiður frá Eystra Fróðholti & Daníel Jónsson

Ljósvaki frá Valstrýtu & Árni Björn 91

Landsmót The National Icelandic Horse Competition

The National Icelandic Horse Competition, known to Icelanders as the “Landsmót” is the largest outdoor sporting event in Iceland showcasing Iceland’s best horses and riders. Started in 1950 at Thingvellir National Park and has been held 23 times on various locations in Iceland. It will be held in Hella, south of Iceland, 2022 from 4th to 10th of july. Since it was held in Thingvellir National Park in 1950 it has grown into the full blown bi-annual country festival that it is today. The Landsmót has been held at rotating locations around Iceland since the beginning in 1950. The event has been held five times in Hella 1986, 1994, 2004, 2008 and 2014. At Landsmot at Hella South Iceland in 2008, attendance reached a record high of 14.000 people. The main theme of the event is an all Icelandic Riding Horse Competition “Gæðingakeppni” where riders of all ages and their horses compete in an event composed of showing all five gaits of the Icelandic horse, tölt, trot, walk, gallop and pace. The parallel theme is a competition and show of breeding horses, were the best stallions and breeding mares are shown and rated. As Tölt 92

is the most treasured gait of the Icelandic horse, the highlight of the Landsmot is always the Tölt competition where the best Tölt horses and their riders compete for the Landsmot Tölt Champion Title. Landsmót is today an all Icelandic country Festival for the whole family. The event is a week long, acquiring over 100 volunteers a total staff of over 200. Apart from being a horse competition, the event is a popular spectator and family country Festival. The Landsmot area is transformed into a village featuring a large camp site, markets with a variety of goods, children’s playgrounds, a line-up of Icelandic entertainers performing during the week, and a number of Icelandic food vendor offering a wide variety of culinary choices. Landsmót was supposed to be held in Hella 2020 but was cancelled do to COVID-19 along with almost every event that year. We look forward to the event in 2022 and we are certain that it will be a large and spectacular event.

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Magical tours at Kálfhóll farm The key to the riders heart

Riding in unspoiled nature, for hours and hours, deep in the heart of Icelandic nature, with free running horses ahead of me and clean air running through my lungs – I am on top of the world.

Is this a fairy-tale story? No, this is a review from one of many happy guests who were riding with Gestur and his family on one of his amazing tours they offer from Kálfhóll Farm. At Kálfhóll farm in the south of Iceland, Gestur Þórðarson has been working with horses most of his life. Gestur has been breathing, training and selling horses and also running horseback riding tours from Kálfhóll for a long time. We asked Gestur about the horses and what makes them so special. “The Icelandic horses have so many unique qualities. Their character is different between horses, but generally, they have strong minds and are easy to work with. For example, it is pretty common for people from other countries who have been working with other horse breeds and had an accident or lost their nerve to start working with Icelandic horses, and most of those people fall immediately in love with them”. Gestur says that this characteristic of the Icelandic horse makes it so well suited for travelling; the horse is always ready to work and its temperament is steady enough to overcome any obstacles that will be on his way. Now Gestur has teamed up with his fellow farmers in the North and North-West, and together, they have formed a company, Íslandshestar. Íslandshestar Íslandshestar is a company offering horseback riding tours in Iceland. Gestur is one of three farmers who own and operate Íslandshestar. The farmers used to operate their tours for another company in Iceland, but Gestur says the farmers’ idea of starting a business of their own will bring the farmers closer to their guests, making for a more personalised experience while enjoying the warmth of their homes, farms and horses. When 98

Gestur riding one of his beautful breeding horses booking a riding tour with Íslandshestar, the guests can be sure that they are supporting the consumer-to-farmer concept. The farmers who offer the best selection of multiday tours in Iceland have many years of experience in operating riding tours for guests from all over the world. Íslandshestar offers both day tours and multi-day riding tours for beginners to experienced riders. The variety is such that everybody should be able to find a riding tour to fit their riding level. The tours are perfect for families, friends and single riders who want to ride the Icelandic horse in unspoiled Icelandic nature with local farmers.

The Icelandic horse is a majestic breed but sometimes they get lost in the dramatic landscape of the highlands - photo by Gigja Einars The other farmers – Halldór and Haukur The other owners of Íslandshestar are the farmers Halldór and Elín and Haukur Suska. Halldór and Elín at Bjarnarstaðir Farm are known for offering Íslandshestar’s guests the chance to witness the most incredible sights in North-East Iceland. Halldór is often called the mountain man up in the North. He owns many sheep which he drives and

herds back from the Northern Highlands every autumn and offers his guests to join him as well. His most popular tours are Northern Exposure and Arctic North. He also offers our most unique tour of all – Under the Mystique Midnight Sun, where our guests start riding during the night time on the summer solstice and rest during the day. 99

Our guests lining up for a photo - photo by Gigja Einars Haukur Suska lives, along with his children, at Hvammur Farm in Vatnsdalur in North-West Iceland. Haukur operates several of our tours and offers accommodation for our Kjölur tour as well. Haukur has four children and over 100 horses. His wonderful family helps him operate the tour. Haukur is always cheerful, and it is so much fun when he takes out his guitar and starts playing and singing with our guests. 100

What makes riding with Íslandshestar so special Gestur says there are many reasons why riding in Iceland is so popular and unique. Some riders own their own Icelandic horse but dream of experiencing the horse in its natural environment. Iceland is the least densely populated country in Europe, with a pure, unpolluted and truly magical landscape, which is another reason why riders want to ride in Iceland. The best way to travel in Iceland is by a horse, and riding the

The colourful horses from Káílfhóll farm are sure-footed while crossing rivers - photo by Louisalilja horses in their native habitat is an authentic riding experience. While horseback riding, you can go to places that no cars can go or are allowed to and focus on experiencing the landscape and nature all around. Icelanders have been travelling that way since they first settled here and the horses helped us get to places that we could not otherwise. The Icelandic horse is also very gentle and friendly. They have a big character which make

them fun to get to know and ride. One of the most desirable reasons to come horseback riding in Iceland is the Icelandic horse’s unique Tölt gait. The Icelandic horse is considered to be the only breed in the world that has five gaits. The unique gaits are Tölt and Flying pace. Tölt is a four-beat lateral gait, very smooth and comfortable for the rider, especially on a longer tour. The reason why Tölt is so smooth is that there are always one or more legs touching the ground, and that is the 101

Watching over the herd on our Thórsmörk tour - photo by Louisalilja advantage the Icelandic breed has over other breeds. The horses are very gracious when tölting, and it is so amazing to watch how the rider stays perfectly still when the horse is tölting. Our tours Because Íslandshestar provides a great range of tours, each with unique features about them, all riders should be able to find an ideal tour to go on, Gestur explains. 102

Herding along free running horses is the traditional way of travelling in Iceland. On many multi-day itineraries, you will find yourself riding alongside a herd of loose horses. It is a thrill to see such a spectacle, but it is also entirely practical. Riders can change mounts often, ensuring the horses are well-rested and therefore eager to get going. Each horse has a different personality, and it can be fun to get to know

various horses along the way. As they are small and powerful, the horses will no doubt awe you with their stamina and strength of character. In Iceland and on our riding tours, you can find hot spring oases featuring hot pools and geothermal hot springs that are perfect for relaxing after a long riding day. Whether our guests are keen to explore Iceland’s geothermal areas or its national parks’ glaciers and volcanoes, ride along sandy beaches or tackle rugged highland trails, the possibilities for breath-taking trails in Iceland are endless. North or south, multi-day rides reward the horseback traveller with off-the-beaten track wonders and the privilege of accessing trails that few tourists get to see. It really is a very special way to see Iceland.

What tours are operated from Kálfhóll farm? The Golden Circle is the oldest and most popular tour we offer. This tour was nominated by CNNgo as one of the greatest horse treks in the world! This tour is perfect for families and those not having the required riding experience for our highland tours. Riding days can be long, so our riders should be in good physical shape and have basic horsemanship skills. Another very popular tour is the highland tour Landmannalaugar – Mt. Hekla. Our ride starts along the riverbanks of the mighty glacial river Thjórsá, with a magnificent view of the glacier Eyjafjallajökull and the volcano Hekla. The beautiful area Landmannahellir is a fitting outpost in the Central Highlands before going on to enjoy the colourful rhyolite mountains in Landmannalaugar, surrounded by black lava fields. Landmannalaugar is a

Gesturs sons Hannes Ólafur, Egill and Þórður Freyr the managing diretor, help his father operate the tours photo by Louisalilja geothermal wonderland in the Southern Highlands. Its natural bathing pools are only one of the highlights which make this area one of Iceland’s most popular destinations for nature lovers. Our Þórsmörk Nature Reserve tour is perfect for riders who love to ride in the Southern Highlands for a shorter amount of time. 104

During these three days, we ride through contrasting scenery of lush oases between majestic mountain ranges. Riding in this wonderland of nature is an experience of pure joy and one which we have been offering for many years; it is still as popular as it was in the beginning.

Efsta-Sel horsebreeding Daníel Jónsson tel: 860 3559

dannijons30@gmail.com

We’re a small, independent brand based in Reykjavík, Iceland. As a husband-and-wife team, we work together on all aspects of our company, taking a practical attitude towards design and passionately sharing our ideas. Alrún’s reputation for edgy Nordic design is founded on our range of original bindrune jewelry. Our bindrune symbols continue a Nordic bindrune-making tradition more than a thousand years old. Bindrunes were used to cast magic spells, conceal secrets, and to create powerful personal amulets. They were also common in other aspects of everyday life and were a clever method of relaying messages. The ancient Norse believed that a bindrune could intensify the meaning of a personal message and invoke its power in their lives. We are always looking for new ways to share the story behind our symbols, and personal connections are important to us. Our designs are expressive, and we want them to have a special place in your heart and in your home. We welcome you to discover connections to the past and share in the beauty of new Nordic tradition.

Eiðfaxi International - 01/2021

Articles inside

Magical tours with Gestur at Kálfhóll Farm

I am actually rather shy

Landsmót

An ambitious young rider

Speaking the same language

The rider of year 2020

Breeding rider of the year 2020

Is The National Breeding show a future event?

Sport rider of the year 2020

Pace rider of the year 2020

Young rider of the year 2020

Priviledged to know these geniuses

Gæðingarider of the year 2020