EQuine AMerica Fall 2020

EQuine magazine

WHAT SHOULD YOUR BILL OF SALE SAY? A (PERSONAL) TELEMEDICINE CASE STUDY GOOD READS - DRESSAGE BETWEEN THE JUMPS THE TWO SIDES OF EQUINE ARTIST SUSAN SILVERMAN

A CONVERSATION WITH WOODS BAUGHMAN MARS GREAT MEADOW INTERNATIONAL CCI4* HORSE PARK AT WOODSIDE RUNS ITS FIRST CCI4* MORVEN PARK INTERNATIONAL RUNS NOVICE - ADVANCED

fall 2020 @EQAMMAG

WHAT SWITZERLAND DID FOR THE LUXURY WATCH,

B&D BUILDERS DOES FOR THE EQUESTRIAN FACILITY.

Let’s discuss your building vision.

717.687.0292 | BandDBuilders.com

D i s t r i b u t i o n pa rt n e r s

Thank you!

Thank you to these truly wonderful distribution partners. In this time of real business uncertainty, we’ve come together to support each other, and we are so thankful for your fellowship. EQuine AMerica hopes to continue to team up and collaborate with you for the unforeseeable future and beyond.

Committed to our community.

Past, present and future.

NE WPORT BE ACH | ASPEN | PALM BE ACH | 561.318.8671 | 866. 584.2666 | LUGANODIAMONDS.COM

equine america MAGAZINE A COUNTRY UNITED BY OUR PASSION FOR HORSES . VOLUME 15 . 2020.

publisher

CLR Media, LLC editor

Carina Roselli Editorial Assistants

Lays Coutinho - Afonso Westphal Contributing Writers

Dr. Bob Grisel, Dr. Joanna Frantz, Lisa Hellmer, Olivia Lagoy-Weltz, Dr. Nettie Liburt, Carina Roselli, Charlene Strickland, Dr. Ashley Wagner, Carrie Washburn PROOFREADER

Meredith Williams graphic designer

Afonso Westphal COVER PHOTO

ES Equine Photography Danash’s Northern Tempest (aka “Dani”) Owned by Palm Beach Sport Horses

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Equestre Americas became EQuine AMerica Magazine in Spring 2018. EQuine AMerica is published four times a year and distributed at horse shows and select tack shops across the USA. EQuine AMerica is also available by subscription for home delivery and digital online viewing. FOR SUBSCRIPTION MANAGEMENT AND ADDRESS CHANGES contact us at info@eq-am.com , SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR to carina@eq-am.com.

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| EQuine america magazine

PRO L O G UE

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8 | EQuine america magazine

equine america MAGAZINE A COUNTRY UNITED BY OUR PASSION FOR HORSES . VOLUME 15 . 2020.

CONTRIBUTORS DR. ASHLEY WAGNER, PhD Ashley obtained her Doctorate in Equine Nutrition from the University of Kentucky and went on to work in new product development in the feed and supplement industry. She founded Equinutrix Nutrition Solutions to meet what she saw was an industry need for supplements with scientifically proven efficacy in horses. Her involvement in research has led to numerous co-authored scientific articles, abstracts, and speaking engagements.

dr. Bob Grisel, DVM Bob graduated from the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine with honors and having received multiple awards. Bob’s recent publications focus on lameness, especially the correlation between abnormal gait characteristics and specific sources of pain in the horse. His new book, “Equine Lameness for the Laymen” is excerpted in this issue.

Carrie washburn Carrie is an equine physiotherapist certified in equine sports massage, equine kinesiology taping, educated in cold laser therapy, and Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy. She owns and operates Performance Equine – Integrated Therapies out of Carbondale, Colorado, which offers these services to clients and their equine partners along with a full line of all-natural, FEI/ USEF compliant supplements. Carrie has worked on some of the country’s top dressage, reining, and show jumping horses.

charlene strickland From Bosque Farms, New Mexico, Charlene is an equestrian journalist, writing about sport horse training, showing, and breeding. She’s earned awards for her magazine work from the US Equestrian Federation, The Chronicle of the Horse, and the Society for Technical Communication. In 2013, she won the Alltech A+ Award for Best Article. She is a member of the International Alliance of Equestrian Journalists. Charlene has ridden and shown Western, hunters, and dressage.

Holly johnson Holly is the founder of Equinium Sports Marketing, an equine PR & marketing firm in Wellington, Florida. She has a Bachelor’s degree specializing in entrepreneurship and an MBA in Sports Management, as well as a strong FEI background. In her early 20s, Holly rode for the Lipizzaner Stallions; she performed in the Middle East, Canada, Alaska, at Madison Square Garden and other US destinations. Equinium currently represents clients in the US, Europe, Australia, and South America.

10

CO

Dr. Joanna Frantz, PT, MSPT, DPT Joanna earned both her Master’s and Doctorate Degrees in Physical Therapy from Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine. She is certified through the USEF as the Physical Therapist for the US Para-Equestrian Dressage Team and the founder of Refine Your Ride, which helps riders understand how their bodies affect their horse’s performance. Her work is specifically designed to help riders correct their common faulty movement patterns to prevent injury and improve their effectiveness on the horse.

Lisa Hellmer Lisa is a USDF bronze and silver medalist on her Oldenburg, Aniko (“Sneaks”), currently competing at Intermediate I. She graduated summa cum laude from Johnson & Wales University with a degree in equine business management and riding. She is now a USEF Silver Para Dressage Coach and recently formed LCH Equestrian in Ocala, FL.

Dr. Nettie Liburt, PAS Dr. Nettie Liburt is the Senior Equine Nutrition Manager at Mars Horsecare US/BUCKEYE™️ Nutrition where she helps develop new products, trains associates in equine nutrition, and works with the company’s UK-based team at the WALTHAM®️ Centre for Pet Nutrition on developing and implementing research protocols. She holds Master’s and PhD degrees in Animal Science from Rutgers University. Dr. Liburt is a member of the Equine Science Society and a registered Professional Animal Scientist (PAS).

Olivia Lagoy-Weltz Olivia is a USDF bronze, silver, and gold medalist. Her earlier experience includes working for and riding at several top barns in Holland and Germany. Olivia is currently competing her own Rassing’s Lonoir (“Lono”) on the CDI circuit in Wellington, Florida and throughout Europe. Most recently, USEF selected Olivia as Team USA’s traveling alternate for the World Equestrian Games, Tryon 2018.

Steve long Steve is an accomplished business intelligence consultant and published technical author with a creative side that includes a passion for producing beautiful images. A photographer since childhood, his love of horses has led him to pursue photographing top-level equine events.

Ontributors

equine america MAGAZINE A COUNTRY UNITED BY OUR PASSION FOR HORSES . VOLUME 15 . 2020.

20.

• Contents • eventing Special: 80. Morven Park International Horse Trials

88. Coming Together, Six Feet Apart at Woodside’s First CCI4* 98. Orange on Blue: How the Modified Level is Bridging the Gap 116. A Conversation with Woods Baughman 144. MARS Great Meadow International

12

14.

Other Disciplines: 66.

Dressage – It’s On Until It’s Not On

104.

Para Dressage – A Trip to Para National Finals

126.

Hunter/Jumper – Stepping Up to Meter-20

columns: 20.

Equine Arts – The Two Sides of Susan Silverman

48.

Veterinary – A (Personal) Case Study in Telemedicine

94.

For the Good of the Horse: Physio – KT Taping the Lumbosacral Joint

110.

Legal – What Should Your Bill of Sale Say?

134.

For the Good of the Horse: Nutrition – Feeding the Performance Horse

140.

Rider Wellness – Fall Exercises

152.

Our World – For the Love of the Horse Editorials:

40.

Who Gets To Be An Equestrian?

72.

Direct from Oz? Horses of a Different Color

contents

70.

Divine

equine The finest equestrian goods, curated for you by the Editor.

Kimes Ranch - Bonnie Jean Stable Style – The Book

Matt and Amanda Kimes founded Kimes Ranch in 2009.

They are known for their iconic jeans that have the longevity and

Stable Style, the website founded in 2015, is

durability you demand because they only source Ring Spun denim.

dedicated to inspiring you with beautiful barns and

Ring Spun denim has greater tensile/tear strength than Open End

stables. The goal is to excite you with awe inspiring

yarn found in other brands. Thus, their jeans last 2-3 times longer.

tours, jaw-dropping designs, and inside looks at celebrity

Kimes Ranch is in fact an all-American western brand based out of

stables. Now the first Stable Style book is finally here!

Scottsdale, Arizona, but the “Bonnie” skinny jean is a cross-cultural

Stable Style: Barn Inspiration for all Equestrians is a

piece that we can all ride in. The Bonnie has everything you need:

hardcover (8.25″x10.25″) book with 190 pages, printed

skinny leg; higher-wasted rear; and a tri-blend technology to help

with love in the USA. Inside you’ll find a cool collection

with the rebound (holds its shape), improve wearability, and provide

of petite and sizable barns along with a sprinkle of

give in all the right places. Details: fabric: 93% cotton, 6% polyester,

beautifully organized tack rooms that are sure to inspire

1% elastine. Made in the USA. Find it in their 2020 Fall Collection at

your inner architect and décor designer dreams. We

www.kimesranch.com, $120.

invite you to thumb through this coffee table book in

Feeling a little country? Get your Kimes American Rancher

your daily celebration of the equestrian lifestyle. Find

trucker hat to support BraveHearts, a PATH accredited equine

it at https://stablestyle.net/shop/. Stable Style: Barn

therapy center based in Harvard and Poplar Grove, Illinois. As the

Inspiration for all Equestrians will also be available for

home of the largest equine-based program in the country for

preorder on Amazon, $68.

military veterans, BraveHearts salutes our veterans in the hope of bringing joy and unlimited possibilities through the healing power of the horse. All services are offered at no cost to the veteran.

For more information, or to make a direct donation visit: https:// braveheartsriding.org/.

WIT Equestrian – Fall Sun-Shirt WIT Equestrian Clothing Company is a modern equestrian apparel brand that mixes modern looks with understated equestrian style. Based out of Bakersfield, California, this one-person company’s founder, Jacqueline Arnold, creates all the designs herself. In 2019, she was inspired to start a brand that represents stylish riders who also work hard and do “Whatever It Takes” to stay in the saddle.

It all started with Jacque’s original “Breech, please” embroidered sweatshirt, which sets the tone for the brand. Since then, she takes inspiration from pop culture, music, fashion trends, and other equestrians to design all of WITs stylish pieces. From her you’ll see anything from high fashion-inspired designs to modern looks and retro tees. WIT’s seasonally themed sun-shirts, like the Limited-Edition Horse Girl Summer Sun-Shirt, are one of the more popular items in her line. The new Fall Sun-Shirt does not disappoint with its crisp fallen leaves on a burgundy base, compression feel, and sun protection for schooling on fall’s coveted sunny afternoons. The details: 82% polyester, 18% spandex / 38-40 UPF / Fitted design / Comfortable longer body and sleeves / Flatseam and coverstitch / Very soft four-way stretch fabric. Made in the USA, www.witequestrianclothingco.com, $45.

BOTORI – PJ Pant BOTORI is fueled by a team of driven, creative professionals on a mission to design comfortable and practical performance riding apparel fit for every rider’s adventures. All BOTORI apparel is developed and designed in Philadelphia and made with quality in the USA. All fabrics are crueltyfree, and BOTORI works with a small number of vendors, which allows them to maintain close relationships built on openness, transparency, and accountability.

BOTORI riding apparel is designed for active, modern equestrians who are conscious of sport and style. From technical fabric to dynamic fit, their clothes are made to be lived in, all day every day, in and out of the saddle. These riding tights are next level in softness, with a brushed interior and mesh cuffs. The PJ Pant is definitely a pair you can fall asleep in and roll out of bed ready for an early morning ride. Available in new, unique fall colors like Red Oak (shown) and Birch. Get yours at www.botori.life, $115.

F.WORDS – Florette Gilet F.WORDS Founder and Creative Director, Kendel Neidermyer, combines her years of luxury brand experience with her dedication to craftmanship and her athletic history as a nationally competitive gymnast to create Couture Performance Apparel. F.WORDS’ Couture Performance Apparel enhances and elevates a woman’s confidence from the barn to the board room, and everywhere in between. Their unique blend of Haute-couture and technical athletic and leisure clothing fits the needs of the chic, modern woman—comfortable, refined, and elegant pieces that reflect ease and confidence wherever, whenever. Even better, F.WORDS’ headquarters and 100% of its manufacturing are in New York City.

The Florette Gilet (aka vest) is super versatile with large front pockets (4 to be exact) and double stand collar and armhole detail crafted in Dondi® Italian cashmere cotton compact knit doubleface jersey (it’s practically reversible). Oatmeal in color and available in sizes XS through XL, moisture controlling, and breathable. Made in the USA, www.fwordsgear.com, $1095.

Divine

equine The finest equestrian goods, curated for you by the Editor.

Fluff Monkey Combining a fun accessory with a practical tool! A Fluff Monkey is a colorful ball of fabric that can buff, dust, wash, entertain, relax, stylize, apply, identify, reward, and represent! Also available as Pony-Poms hair ties and the Body Mop bathing fluff monkey. Handmade in the USA with colorful, durable, washable materials. Endless colors and customization options makes this the perfect team accessory, fundraising promotion, or holiday stocking

Rooted Earth Farm + Apothecary – Dream Balm

stuffer! Customize with your barn colors or go with traditional holiday colors. Made by hand in the USA. Get your custom Fluff Monkey at https://fluffmonkey.com/, $19.95 - $24.95.

Dream Balm 4 oz. Organic Herbal Sleep Salve.

This balm smells SO good! Use it before bed each night (or anytime during the day) and the herbal scent will soothe your mind, body, and soul. Helps you get to sleep and have sweet dreams. Softens your skin and protects and soothes your lips. Can also be used in your hair as a deep moisturizing treatment.

No essential oils for those sensitive to overwhelming scents—this won’t overwhelm you, at least not in a negative sense. Made by hand in the USA with organic coconut oil, organic beeswax and infused

Twisted String Jewelry Custom Horsehair Bracelet

with organic herbs: lavender, chamomile, hops, and rose petals. Get yours at www.amazon.com, $33.99.

What a beautiful way to celebrate your beloved horse(s)!

Whether your best friend that you see daily or a cherished loss you’re still feeling, their manes and tails are full of memories. Let Twisted String weave strands of their hair into a beautiful, infinite circle to remind you of the endless love you’ll always share. Bracelets are custom made to your specifications using horsehair that you submit.

Each piece is entirely unique and handmade in the USA. Order yours at https://www.etsy.com/shop/TwistedStringJewelry, $35.

SPECIAL HOLIDAY STOCKING STUFFER EDITION Treestar* Coffee Soap Scrub Bar For the trainer who’s never seen without a coffee in her hand, stuff her stocking with coffee she can take in the shower! Help your trainer multi-task in the morning. WAKE UP with this coffee-infused bar containing fine coffee grounds to scrub you awake and get that blood flowing under your skin. Smells like a warm French vanilla coffee with hints of chocolate. Although it’s vegan, do not eat it. Details: 5 oz. bar wrapped in a reusable and biodegradable cotton muslin bag. Ingredients: Extra virgin olive oil, organic coconut oil, organic & sustainable palm oil (Brazil), water, coffee grounds, fragrance. Made by hand in the USA. Available at www.treestarnyc.com, $12.

GUMBITS - CHEWING GUM

FOR HORSES AND PONIES GumBits promotes the salivation process and eliminates the teeth grinding that can occur during the intense training of high-performance sport horses and ponies. After a short amount of time, most horses and ponies come around to a happy, frothy mouth that helps all riders, whether top competitor or hobbyist, enjoy their workout without the training grind.

GumBits encourage chewing activity, triggers salivation, eliminates teeth grinding, and horses love the taste. They’re made of all-natural, safe, FDA approved ingredients that are sweet and palatable. Made in the USA. Visit www.gumbits.com to learn more and get yours at your local major tack shop, $39.95.

Divine

equine The finest equestrian goods, curated for you by the Editor.

Snaks 5th Avenchew Gracie Crunch Cups Snaks 5th Avenchew turned their Crunch Cups™ into enchanted unicorns! Meet Gracie—she’s sassy, trendy, and cute as a button!

Each Crunch Cups™ is a crunchy horse treat topped with mouthwatering décor. Peppermint flavor. Sold by the dozen, online only.

Colors, designs, and consistencies may vary as items are handmade and no two cups are alike. Get them for your horse’s stocking (or every horse in the barn if you’re feeling particularly enchanted) at www.snaks5thavenchew.com, $18.50.

OsoAndBean Cowgirl Hip Flasks Heaven just cannot possibly be heaven without horses and whiskey—or wine or bourbon, or whatever you want to put in these fun and functional flasks. Toss them in a saddle bag or just your coat pocket, so long as their warming brew is in reach on chilly winter days.

Do it in style: take a stand on your rules for heaven or carry the vintage memories of some of the strongest horsewomen who came before us. Details: waterproof laminate wrap, scratch-resistant, premium 18/10 stainless steel, printed and assembled in the USA. Get them at www.etsy.com/shop/OsoAndBean, $21.

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I Dreamed Last Night My Horse Was Jackson Pollock 18� x 24� acrylic on gallery wrapped stretched canvas.

One of many artists I imagined as horses. I used my signature horse and combined the characteristic physical look and style of the artist. I still have many more to do as they combine my love of art and horses, and are insane.

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| EQuine America Magazine

THE TWO SIDES OF

SUSAN SILVERMAN I grew up in Northern California sneaking over to the

own creations. I had a consistent creative outlet, but I was

local stable and begging anyone with a horse to let me

limited to felt, puffy paint, and an audience of 3 to 10-year-

ride. To this day, the smell of alfalfa, fresh bed shavings,

olds. We won over thirty Oppenheimer awards and were

and the look of dirt under my nails from a curry comb

purchased by Learning Curve, a large toy company based

makes me feel like I’m ten years old again.

in Chicago.

The barn has always felt like a second home—it’s

The next decade was spent riding and training horses,

where I got my first taste of independence as a kid, it

and my creative outlet was helping design our barn and

was where my girls spent their summers and all of their

tending to the grounds of our ever-expanding equestrian

free time, and it’s where I met my second husband. The

property in Washington.

whiskered nuzzle of a horse, a dog curled up at my

After an injury prevented me from being able to

ankles, and the purr from a friendly barn cat are my

continue riding, I found myself drawn back to the canvas. I

versions of a childhood stuffed animal.

started painting every day, drawing inspiration from horses,

I have always had a desire to express myself through

tack, and the elegance and playfulness of riding. I challenged

visual creations. My mom loves to tell stories of how

myself to experiment with different styles and mediums. I

I would spend a week designing the cover for a book

made custom pieces for friends and family.

report only to barely finish writing the book report on

I think I would still be giving away pieces if it wasn’t

the last night before it was due. My mind processes

for my daughter who set up a website and Instagram

details, ideas, and concepts visually. My hand with a pen,

account for me and insisted that there were people who

paintbrush, or even a saw has always been my preferred

would buy my creations.

tool to communicate with the world.

Instagram quickly became the most-used app on my

I attended art school but spent most of my time

phone as I found an incredible community of people who

feeling like I was fighting with my creativity rather than

inspired me and appreciated my talent. I have created dozens

letting it flourish. I became a hobbyist who would go

of custom pieces and over a hundred original pieces.

years without picking up a paintbrush only to have a

In 2019, my piece, Blue Horse in Paris, was selected by

flurry of creativity―making handmade cards, cakes, and

the curator of the Emile Hermès private art collection in Paris.

even wood cutouts, but I wasn’t consistent and never

As someone who once rode in an Hermès saddle, wears

imagined I could pursue art full time.

jeans with a white shirt and an Hermès scarf and lives in my

When I became a mom, the creativity flowed into

18-year-old Hermès loafers, I continue to be amazed that

party decorations, decor for my girls’ rooms, costumes, and

one of my paintings was selected to be a part of an incredible

painting with my children. I created felt boards with custom

collection to inspire designers.

pieces for my girls and their friends. People started to notice,

I live in Menlo Park, California and work out of my

I got orders, and then a friend with an MBA from Stanford

garage with my border collie, Raleigh, and his best friend, my

convinced me that we could make it into a business. With

daughter’s French Bulldog, Bouchon. My creativity continues

her business acumen and vision, FeltKids was born.

to thrive on the energy, support, and playful teasing of my

For the next seven years, I worked as the founder and

husband and daughters. Most of my work is available for

chief designer. I created custom boards for popular children’s

prints. I welcome commissions, and some originals are still

tv shows and movies such as Curious George, Winnie The

available. You can message me on Instagram or email me

Pooh, Thomas the Tank Engine, Madeline, Wizard of Oz,

at ssilvermanstudio@gmail.com. You can also find me on

Stuart Little, and Teletubbies, along with dozens of my

Instagram @susanhsilverman.

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Picasso Reimagined 20� x 30� acrylic on gallery wrapped stretched canvas.

I have always been inspired by Picasso and wanted to play around with horses and his style.

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Double Horse #1 24” x 36” acrylic on gallery wrapped stretched canvas.

I love the graphic quality of my split horses. I did a commission of this series for a customer in her barn colors. These colors are not only lively but they’re the colors of America (and the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Norway, and others).

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| EQuine America Magazine

Abstract Horse #2 18� x 24� acrylic on gallery wrapped stretched canvas.

I

came

up

with

an

abstract

horse, full of different repeating shapes: curls, paisleys, circles, triangles, and diamonds. It has both a feeling of symmetry and asymmetry. The three horses are tied to each other as a repetition design element. Because they have extra legs, they are standing and dancing at the same time.

The horses had such action and color, I needed a non-competing environment. The dark grey fence gave me the horizon lines and the row of palm trees gave me the tall vertical pattern I wanted. I left each palm tree with one green palm frond. I liked the mix of unrestrained opaque colors in the horses and the very restrained use of color and transparency in the palm trees.

25

Blue Ribbon Black 18” x 24” acrylic on gallery wrapped stretched canvas.

In 2017, I made a signature horse out of the simplest shapes. I couldn’t stop for months. This horse is the basis for my split horses and my artists as horses series. I have a sketchbook full of versions yet to try.

26

The Male Gaze

The Mare’s Glare

11” x 14” acrylic on heavy archival paper.

11” x 14” acrylic on heavy archival paper.

This is an abstract capture of the first few

This is an abstract capture of the following

seconds of a mare being flirted with.

60 seconds. I really liked the X-ray vision of the stallion through the mare’s tail, and her expression is priceless.

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E q u i n e A rt s

side two

Horse and Hound

16� x 20� acrylic painting, then photographed and altered to make horse blue using my iPad. This is #8 in my Horse and Hound series, and my first blue horse. I find true blue serves to be both vibrant and almost a neutral.

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| EQuine America Magazine

The New Feminists 11” x 14” acrylic painting on heavy archival paper.

What can I say? I’m in love with the drinking, (some smoking) badass women who don top hats and bowlers and gallop over hedges side saddle. I painted referencing several collected photographs of the women on their mounts, then made up a background and sprinkled in lots of hounds. If your art collection doesn’t have a hound peeing, do you even have a collection?

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E q u i n e A rt s

Quaran-team 6� x 6� acrylic and collage on board.

I referenced a picture of two of the side saddle riders from England that I follow on Instagram. Faces terrify me but it came together! I added the horse in the center and then cut out a piece of kilt from a magazine for the COVID-19 mask to give it a 2020 vibe. On the black and white prints, I hand-painted glossy red lipstick to make them really pop.

30

Hunt Delayed By Running Of the Bulls 9� x “9 acrylic on heavy archival paper.

The hounds are not amused in this picture as the English Bull Terriers have escaped through the gate and want to join the party. I think Churchill would have approved.

E q u i n e A rt s

Cheers to the Fine Roman Nose 8� x 10� gouache and acrylic.

Work in progress, celebrating the beautiful Roman nose in multiple species.

32

What the Fluff?!!

12� x 16� gouache and acrylic on heavy archival paper.

I like to imagine and add something unexpected to the hunt scenes. I thought this had a New Yorker magazine cover kind of vibe to it.

E q u i n e A rt s

Blue Horse in Paris 20” x 30” acrylic on gallery wrapped stretched canvas.

I wanted bright and graphic. I made a rough sketch in bed one night and liked it in the morning. This piece lives in the Émile Hermès Private Collection their

in

flagship

Paris,

above

retail

store.

Unfortunately, the collection is not open to the public.

Susan Silverman

34

2021

S H OW

DAT E S

PASO PARK WELCOME CLASSIC April 21–25 • Classic Series

PASO PARK SPRING CLASSIC April 28–May 1 • Classic Series

ROSÉ IN MAY May 27–30 • B Series

PASO PUMPKINS & PONIES October 14–17 • B Series

PASO PARK FALL CLASSIC November 3–7 • Classic Series

PASO PARK OAK TREE CLASSIC November 10–14 • Classic Series

TURKEY TROT & JUMP November 18–21 • B Series

R E S E RV E

N OW

Email info@PasoRoblesHorsePark.com to reserve your stalls today!

W E B S I T E — www.PasoRoblesHorsePark.com

good reads

h of my jumping essage. That’s the

$29.95 USD ISBN: 9781570769283 52995

E KURSINSKI

9 781570 769283

www.HorseandRiderBooks.com

F O PR O

IN G

DRESSAGE IE W

DRESSAGE BETWEEN THE JUMPS

TRAIN and condition a tuned-in competitor with greater longevity.

UMPS J BETWEEN THE EV

IMPROVE time, turns, adjustability, and responsiveness.

Dressage between the jumps:

JANE SAVOIE’S BOOKS have changed the way people ride. She was the first to promote mental training tools and techniques as integral to competitive riding success, and her cross-training concepts for the horse—how to use dressage fundamentals for every equestrian sport—have been called “not just a read, but a must read for every hunter-jumper rider.”

JANE SAVOIE’S

R

ERCISES ON THE FLAT

JANE SAVOIE’S

JUMP BETTER

The Secret to Improving Your Horse’s Performance Over Fences

THE SECRET TO IMPROVING YOUR HORSE’S PERFORMANCE OVER FENCES

Now Savoie has created a book specifically for equestrian sports with a jumping component—hunter, jumper, equitation, and eventing. In these photofilled pages, she breaks down the six most common problem areas she sees when horses jump: “whoa” and “go”; rhythm; suppleness through the poll, neck, body, back, and hindquarters; contact and connection; collection; and flying changes.

Then Savoie fills the rider’s toolbox with targeted exercises on the flat—simple solutions to the nagging problems that prevent riders and horses from doing their best over all kinds of obstacles. Her excellent lessons gradually incorporate ground poles and low fences to build valuable skills without stressing the horse’s body.

Throughout, top riders share their own stories and insight, demonstrating numerous ways dressage exercises helped solve real problems over fences.

By Jane Savoie Shared in partnership with Trafalgar Square Books www.horseandriderbooks.com

With incredible clarity and her trademark enthusiasm, Savoie arms readers with knowledge, confidence, and problem-solving prowess that will result not only in clear rounds, but happier horses, ready and willing to perform in partnership.

$29.95

5/20/20 12:03 PM

The goal is for your horse to be able to move his

Here’s a great exercise to learn what it feels like when

shoulders easily left and right, so you can make his body

the horse’s shoulders are positioned correctly between

straight. When you ride your horse in a certain position

the reins.

every day, that position feels normal to both of you. So, the first thing you need to do is recalibrate your sense

1.

of straightness.

be 8 to 10 meters in diameter. Look down and notice

Start by walking on a small circle to the left. It can

where your horse’s right shoulder is. Then counter-flex Straightness occurs when your horse’s shoulders are

your horse at the poll with an indirect right rein so you

between the reins, in front of your hips, and in front of

see his right eye.

his hips. By riding in this position every day, in time you create a new normal.

2. Watch your horse’s shoulders slide to the left when you counter-flex him to the right. If you can’t see them

To develop this feeling, ride your horse in counter-flexion

move, make a smaller circle. If you’re still having trouble

and notice where his shoulders go. Do they slide in the

seeing his shoulders move, overbend his neck to the

opposite direction from the way he’s flexed at the poll?

inside with your inside rein so you can clearly see his

Eventually, your horse needs to be flexed and bent in the

shoulders pop to the right (fig. 6.5). Then counter-flex

direction he’s going when you’re on a circle or a curve.

to the right, and notice how his shoulders slide to the

But until you fine-tune your sense of where his shoulders

left.

are, it’s better to ride him in counter-flexion with no bend and a straight body than to let his shoulders pop

3. When you counter-flex, you might feel that the horse’s

out. When that new, “straight” position of his shoulders

body gets “rounder,” and he seems more connected

feels normal to you, then ride him in true flexion to the

from back to front. This shape occurs when he’s straight

inside while making sure his shoulders stay in the same

because the energy that comes from behind can travel

place they were when he was counter-flexed (figs. 6.4

through his body uninterrupted and be recycled by your

A & B). If his shoulders do pop out, that will now feel

hand back to his hindquarters.

“wrong” to you. As a result, you’ll automatically make

36

the correction by counter-flexing for a few strides and

4.

moving his shoulders back where they be-long before

correctly to the inside, but keep his shoulders in the

resuming true flexion.

exact same spot that they were in when you counter-

| Equine america magazine

Eventually, you should be able to flex your horse

6.4 A & B This horse isn’t straight. His shoulders are to the left of the arc of the circle. To straighten her horse, the rider has counter-flexed him at the poll to the left (A). As a result, his shoulders have slid over to the right, and they’re now in front of her hips and his hips (B).

flexed him. When you’re not sure if your horse’s

It’s very important during counter-flexion to use

shoulders slipped to the outside again when you

your supporting rein to keep the neck straight.

flexed him to the inside, go back to counter-flexion

If your horse’s neck bends to the outside, he’ll

to see if the shoulders move to the left at all.

end up popping his shoulders to the inside. This position is no better than the shoulders popping to the outside. You need to find the correct marriage of the rein aids where one rein flexes and the other supports. In this way, you prevent the horse’s neck from bending so that you can isolate the poll.

Putting It All Together Between the Jumps Let’s now take a look at how you can incorporate some of these shoulder suppling exercises into your jump schooling. Remember, we’re still thinking that your horse is hollow to the left with a weaker left hind that pushes diagonally across his body. This action causes the right shoulder to “pop” outside the line of travel.

6.5 When you’re having trouble

APPROACH AND GETAWAY

seeing your horse’s shoulders move,

Place two poles on the ground on the quarterline

overbend his neck to the inside with

several strides apart. You’re going to focus on using

your inside rein so you can clearly

your dressage exercises both during the approach

see his shoulders pop to the outside.

and the getaway (recovery) after the “fences.”

37

good reads

6.14 If your horse’s shoulders escaped to the outside while jumping the ground pole, counter-flex, and ride shoulder-fore during the getaway. In this case the rider has counter-flexed to the right and moved both her arms to the left to slide the horse’s shoulders left.

6.15 Approach the next pole in shoulder-fore. Jump the pole, and make sure your horse is still in shoulder-fore after the jump. Note that the rider is keeping the horse flexed to the right to retain control of his shoulders even though in left shoulder-fore, he should ideally be flexed to the left.

Remember that the getaway from the first jump is

on the girth so your horse’s body doesn’t fall to the

actually the approach to the next jump.

left when you move his shoulders in that direction.

1.

3.

Pick up the trot. If you have trouble getting

Go over the pole in the trot. If your horse’s

control over your horse’s shoulders, ride the turn

shoulders escaped to the right while jumping, make

prior to the first pole in right counter-flexion so you

the same adjustment of counter-flexing and sliding the

know you have the horse’s shoulders between the

shoulders to the left during the getaway (fig. 6.14).

reins during your approach.

4.

Approach the next pole in left shoulder-fore.

2. You can also circle to the left in trot, and feel how

Jump the fence, and then make sure your horse is

the shoulders “pop” to the right. Then approach

still in left shoulder-fore after the jump (fig. 6.15).

the pole. As you approach, counter-flex your horse

38

to the right, and take your two arms to the left to

5. When this exercise is easy, try it over small jumps

move his shoulders left. Be sure to keep your left leg

or raised cavalletti.

BOOKS THAT GIVE YOU SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO EACH DAY

LEARN, LAUGH, LIVE WITH US TRAFALGAR SQUARE BOOKS | NORTH POMFRET, VERMONT

HORSEANDRIDERBOOKS.COM

Photo credit Brittany Anzel/ELLE

Donna M Cheek

e d i to r i a l Excerpt reprinted with permission from ELLE Magazine

Equestrian?

WHO GETS TO BE AN

In the elite, predominantly white world of horseback riding, Black women face a painful set of challenges.

By Rita Omokha

Like many elite, largely white institutions—

When people talk about the equestrian

prep schools, opera, theater—the equestrian

world in America, they’re usually referring

world is facing its own reckoning with

to the one governed by the United States

racism. A week after the murder of George

Equestrian Federation (USEF) and tied to

Floyd, 17-year-old rider Sophie Gochman,

major national competitions—and Olympic

who is white, penned an online essay for the

dreams. The costs to get into the sport (and

horse-world magazine The Chronicle of the

advance to higher levels), however, are steep,

Horse. “We are an insular community with a

when it comes to both money and time.

gross amount of wealth and white privilege, and thus we choose the path of ignorance,”

Finances aside, once you’ve ventured into

she wrote. A white trainer, Missy Clark,

the sport, it’s a whole other hurdle for Black

composed a rebuttal. “In our world, some

people, especially women. Black riders make

choices are forced because they’re based on

up less than 1% of the USEF, and a Black

the cold hard fact most people can’t afford

equestrian has never competed for the U.S.

to do this. It doesn’t mean that it’s fair,” she

in the Olympics.

wrote, “but it also doesn’t mean that it’s discrimination.” Their exchange prompted

Philesha

Chandler,

a

Black

dressage

Lauryn Gray to submit her own story to

competitor from Florida, learned the hard

the publication. The 17-year-old Canadian

way how alone Black people can feel in the

jumper, who is of mixed race, wrote that

sport. When she was a working student at

“my barn and the circuit I compete on

a Kansas riding-lesson and boarding stable,

have always been an extremely loving and

she wasn’t treated like her white fellow

accepting environment, but...I realize that

riders, and they never stood up for her. White

the same can’t be said about our community

students at the barn were assigned the typical

as a whole.”

duties associated with a horse barn: tacking

41

Photo credit Taylor Pence/ELLE

Jordan Allen

up, cleaning stalls, feeding, grooming horses, and occasionally painting fences. Her trainer would ask Chandler to clean her house: sweep and mop the floors, clean the bathrooms, and wash the dishes.

“It was one of those ‘What?’ moments,” Philesha says. “For the trainer to feel I was the best choice for her house chores because of the color of my skin—I was hurt.” Still, she never spoke up, for fear of losing access to the barn and its horses. “There are so many times I experienced racial prejudice in this sport,” she says, that she eventually grew numb. Now a dressage trainer with her own business, she prioritizes mentoring Black kids interested in dressage. “I want them to know that we belong here, and they can do this.”

Veteran show jumper Donna M. Cheek remembers coming up in the ‘70s, and microaggressions that were not so micro.

“People didn’t want to recognize me because of my skin color,” she remembers. Competing as a hunter—scored at the judge’s discretion— Donna would get very low marks compared to her white counterparts.

Despite the challenges, Donna went on to become the first Black rider to represent the

Photo credit Celeste Sloman/ELLE

Philesha Chandler

United States in the 1981 World Show Jumping

not have been possible. Allen counts herself

Championships and the first equestrian inducted

lucky: She won the Overall Grand Champion title

into the Women’s Sports Hall of Distinction

(in the 3’6” section) at the USEF Junior Hunter

in 1997. She’s now a trainer in Paso Robles,

National Championship. But the 19-year-old is

California, and she says there’s still so much work

usually one of the few Black riders at horse shows

to be done to make the sport more welcoming

and is the only Black athlete on her University of

toward Black people.

South Carolina equestrian team. Young Black girls reach out to her on Instagram to tell her she’s an

For the sport to truly enter a new chapter, Black riders say, it has to start from within: USEF

inspiration. It’s important for them, she says, “to see me out there.”

needs to step up. Riders want to see themselves in magazines, on television screens, and in industrywide promotions.

USEF says it’s doing the work needed to make the sport inclusive and fair. “The experiences recently shared with us by Black members of

“People need to be exposed to stories like

our community are heartbreaking and deeply

mine,” says top rider Jordan Allen. “That you

troubling,” said CEO Bill Moroney in a statement

can do this and not have all the money.” Allen

to ELLE. “They were also a wake-up call, and we

started riding when she was 7; by 10, her talent

now see US Equestrian has not been a strong

caught the eye of well-known trainer Kim Carey.

enough ally for Black equestrians—especially Black

She recommended Allen for the prestigious

women.” The federation is pledging to provide a

training center, Ashland Farms, where she became

special performance-based grant for riders; enact

a working student. “[Riding at Ashland] exposed

financial support programs that give access and

me to other barns and to other people giving

promote education within the industry; implement

me horses,” she adds. Without mentorship,

mandatory antiracist and unconscious bias training

scholarship, and access, getting to the top may

for USEF’s staffers and board; and include more

Black women in marketing materials. “It’s important

a rising Black equestrian, says. “I hope it’s lasting

that people see themselves,” says Vicki Lowell, USEF’s

change and not just something for the moment.”

chief marketing and content officer.

Meanwhile, she’s raising awareness about the lack of diversity on her blog, theblackequestrian. “It’s going

“

Photo credit Celeste Sloman/ELLE

to take all of us staying strong and fighting for the sport we love,” she says.

If you can’t see people who look like you doing it, living it, how can you dream of becoming that thing? Shaquilla “Shaq” Blake

“

“I’m happy that USEF is paying attention and trying to make changes,” Shaquilla “Shaq” Blake,

Shaquilla “Shaq” Blake

Menlo Charity Horse Show Benefiting Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired

save the date August 10 - 15, 2021

AT THE BEAUTIFUL MENLO CIRCUS CLUB IN ATHERTON, CALIFORNIA MENLOCHARITYHORSESHOW.ORG #MENLO2021

63

Figure 1. King Cornbread’s profile on the Getsound telemedicine platform.

Equine Telehealth:

A PERSONAL CASE STUDY

By Dr. Bob Grisel, DVM and Carina Roselli Independent scientific consultant David Marlin, PhD recently lead an international research team assembled to determine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on horse welfare. The investigators, who surveyed more than 11,000 horse owners from late March to early April 2020, reported that 15-22% of respondents had already experienced restricted access to equine veterinary services.

An additional 52-85% of respondents that hadn’t yet

promptly indicated that he was unable to review the video

been affected predicted that they would within the near

footage due to image quality. That was when I learned that

future. There is little question that the world’s current

video footage doesn’t always look the same on both ends of a

climate is affecting the way in which we provide healthcare

text message, particularly when two different types of devices

to our animals. As with any crisis, however, there is always

(e.g. Android versus Apple) are trying to intercommunicate.

the opportunity to revise and improve our practices.

This article highlights one case in which the horse owner was forced to navigate her horse’s veterinary diagnosis and treatment within the context of a global pandemic.

MY INTRODUCTION TO TELEMEDICINE My veterinarian suggested that I upload the footage to an official telemedical platform that his practice had started using. Like most of us, I had heard of equine telemedicine

KING CORNBREAD HAS A STIFLE PROBLEM

48

but (like most of us) had never used it before. But now I was

Due to current social restrictions and limited access to my

faced with a real problem that needed real attention. After

primary veterinary team, I elected to send a text message and

encountering a short learning curve, I was able to submit my

some video clips with the hope that I could get some medical

consultation request via the platform, which was nice enough

guidance with respect to Cornbread’s apparent lameness

to convert my videos into something that my veterinarian

issue(s). My veterinarian was kind enough to respond, but

could actually assess (see Note on Video Quality).

| EQuine America Magazine

V ETERINAR Y

I first had to create a profile for Cornbread within the platform (Figure 1). Then I had to select what kind of help I needed:

Screenshot 1.

Then I searched for and selected my vet:

Dr. Jones’s reply via telemedicine in-app messaging.

Screenshot 2.

49

v e t e r i n a ry

Then I submitted the background information and video for my vet to review (Screenshot 3a).

Screenshot 3a.

50

V ETERINAR Y

Note on video quality:

Figure 2. The quality of your veterinarian’s consultation reflects the quality of the images that you submit for review. a. I first submitted video footage via a text message from my Android smartphone. This is how it appeared on my veterinarian’s iPhone. b. We subsequently decided to use a telemedical platform that automatically converts footage between devices, regardless of their respective operating systems. My vet was able to view and accurately assess the footage via this method.

I immediately received email confirmation that my review request was submitted to Dr. Jones and my request appeared in the app as a pending review (Screenshot 3b). Within minutes I had a response from him confirming that Cornbread had a problem (Screenshot 3c).

Screenshot 3b.

Screenshot 3c. Dr. Jones’s reply via in-app messaging.

51

v e t e r i n a ry

We then conversed back and forth via the platform where I was able to add photos and video as needed.

Screenshot 4.

52

MY INTRODUCTION TO TELECONSULTING

relationship (VCPR) maintained by the primary

The telemedical platform that we were using

veterinary to provide medical advice related to a

enables veterinary professional members to converse

mutual patient. All advice is channeled through the

directly with one another about individual cases

primary veterinarian, who subsequently relates the

(a form of telehealth known as “teleconsulting”).

information to the horse owner. Teleconsulting, if

During teleconsultation, the referral veterinarian

performed appropriately, provides horse owners

(or specialist) utilizes the veterinary-client-patient-

with global access to veterinary expertise.

Figure 3. Cornbread’s symptoms suggest possible neurologic disease. a. The consulting veterinarian noted that Cornbread was “slapping” his hind feet during the trot and canter, both on the flat and up hills. This observation coupled with a few other neurologic signs prompted her to recommend on-site neurologic evaluation. b. These observations coincide with Cornbread’s unusual stance while in the cross ties.

53

v e t e r i n a ry

Screenshot 5.

54

v e t e r i n a ry

TIME FOR THE ON-SITE VISIT

on as well as a clear diagnostic plan moving

Telemedicine is not intended to replace on-

forward.

site, personal veterinary attention. Rather, it

During the visit, Dr. Jones acquired neck x-rays

is intended to supplement it. I was happy to

and pulled blood for EPM and Lyme titer analyses.

schedule an appointment by this time because

He indicated that he would send all the images

we already had some idea(s) of what was going

and blood work results to Dr. Williams for review.

Screenshot 6.

55

vveetteerri innaarryy

Screenshot 7.

COMPOUNDNG PROBLEMS

instructions. I started to notice a difference in Cornbread’s

While I was waiting for Cornbread’s blood work results to

attitude and affect within about a week. I agreed to submit

become available, I decided to clip him as his hair was getting quite

updated reports with images (photos/videos) at least once weekly

long and scraggly. During the process, I noted that he had developed

to my veterinarian so that we could confirm that Cornbread

many crusty bumps all over his back and sides. I decided to utilize my

was responding positively to treatment. We assessed his overall

newly founded telemedical skills to contact my primary veterinarian.

appearance, soundness, movement, and skin health at each

I thought that my veterinarian’s speculation made a lot of

consultation milestone.

sense, as I had never previously observed Cornbread having skin

I noticed that as treatment progressed, Cornbread started

problems in all of the time that I have owned him. I ordered some

standing and moving more normally. His dermatitis resolved

shampoo and started using it (albeit with mediocre initial results).

after about 10 days of concurrent EPM therapy with intermittent

As noted above, blood test results came in on September 8th and

shampooing. My veterinarian suspects that his stifle problem

Cornbread did test positive for EPM.

(delayed patellar release) will also resolve with further treatment, time, and increased fitness. All-in-all I’m feeling great about

FIXIN’ CORNBREAD In lieu of Cornbread’s blood test results, my veterinarian sent me medication to treat EPM with explicit administration

where we are and where we’re going with Cornbread’s health and performance. Moreover, I was able to achieve all of this at a fraction of the cost and amidst an ever-increasing pandemic.

Figure 4. Cornbread’s telemedical expenses versus projected costs without telemedicine.

55

EQUESTRIAN SPORTS W W W. W E S T PA L M S E V E N T S . C O M

Photo credit Elaine Wessel/Phelps Media Group

Augusta Iwasaki and Small Ocassion won the Large Junior Hunter 15 & Under 3’ 6” Division.

From Michigan Favorite to National Championship Venue: Traverse City Horse Shows Answers the Call

By Elaine Wessel of Phelps Media Group

Traverse City Horse Shows (TCHS) are already

championships is a testament to the advancements

well known for their high-caliber horse shows set

we have made, including big-ticket items like new

amongst picturesque rolling hills outside Traverse

rings and permanent structures, as well as enhanced

City, Michigan. The TCHS team has been hard at

footing. We can’t wait to unveil our new updates in

work for the past number of years building the venue

2021!” commented Matt Morrissey, Event Director of

and competition schedule into one that has become

Traverse City Horse Shows.

a magnet for championships and top-tier events.

Though it became one of the highlights of the

In 2020, Flintfields Horse Park hosted 11 weeks of

season in Michigan this year, the Adequan/USEF

competition across six rings and three seasons—

Junior Hunter National Championships East Coast

spring, summer, and fall—to mark their largest year

and

yet, but 2021 promises to be even grander with a

Gladstone Cup Equitation Classic, presented by

number of new additions on the horizon.

Intermont Equestrian at Emory & Henry College, were

“Over

60

the

past

few

years,

we

have

United

States

Hunter

Jumper

Association

been

not originally slated to be under the management of

committed to enhancing the venue and our offerings

the TCHS team. By mid-summer, the championships

to our exhibitors and visitors, and we are thrilled

were in peril of being canceled due to the COVID-19

to be at a point where Flintfields Horse Park is

pandemic, which had already forced the event to

now recognized as a favorite venue by many of our

move from its original base at Brandywine Horse

guests. The fact that we are now hosting major

Shows in Devon, Pennsylvania, to the Kentucky Horse

hunter / jumper

Photo credit Elaine Wessel/Phelps Media Group

Creative jumps were brought out for the finals, as seen here by Tessa Downey and Spectacular

at the 3’6” height to emerge as the Overall Grand

for qualified riders, TCHS stepped in to offer their

3’6” Champion aboard Small Occasion, and Riley

site to host the exciting finals.

Hogan and Keebler were the top point-earners in

“We only had about three weeks to prepare

the 3’3” divisions to capture the Overall Grand

for Junior Hunter Finals, so we were very proud

3’3” Championship. Impressively leading from

of the event that our team put together in such

start to finish, Grace Debney demonstrated her

a short time with the help of the USHJA and US

equitation expertise to capture victory in the USHJA

Equestrian. The horse park looked amazing, and

Gladstone Cup Equitation Classic – East, presented

you would have never known that we were not the

by Intermont Equestrian at Emory & Henry College,

original host based on the success of the event.

to wrap up the successful championship.

We hope everyone who joined us had a memorable experience, and we extend our congratulations to all of the riders!” noted Michael Morrissey, Event

Photo credit Allyson Lagiovane/Phelps Media Group

Park in Lexington. To avoid such a disappointment

Director of Traverse City Horse Shows with his son, Matt.

During the 2020 installment of the event, hundreds of junior riders and their mounts vied for valuable points over the course of three days in the Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel International Ring, which showcased a series of inventive obstacles crafted for the occasion. By the conclusion of the event, eight talented horse-and-rider pairs had been crowned as champions in their respective divisions. Augusta Iwasaki rode to the top of the standings ahead of more than 70 junior hunters

Augusta Iwasaki and Grace Debney 61

hunter / jumper

In addition to the championships for junior riders

equestrian competition in North America for children,

in August, Traverse City Horse Shows put on a slew

junior and young riders ranging in age from 12 to

of other shows that included the two-week Traverse

21, and TCHS is eager to rise to the challenge of

City Spring Horse Show, six-week Great Lakes

hosting such a lofty championship. Horse-and-rider

Equestrian Festival, and three-week Traverse City Fall

combinations from the United States, Mexico, and

Horse Show, which featured the 50th anniversary of

Canada will vie for top honors and demonstrate their

the American Gold Cup and the Silver Oak Jumper

abilities throughout team and individual classes, with

Tournament. One of the most storied shows in the

international clout and glory on the line.

United States, the American Gold Cup made its debut

“We are so excited to finally host the FEI North

in Traverse City, a benchmark year considering it was

American Youth Championships, even if they are

the first time the event had invited hunters and been

a year later than expected! With many of the

held over two weeks.

participants looking towards professional careers

Looking toward 2021, the Midwest will once

in the industry, we are honored to be able to offer

again see the Traverse City showgrounds in full

a platform where they can display their skills and

activity as it hosts 12 weeks of FEI competition, plus

advance even further in their competitive confidence.

two new championships to add to the excitement.

Many of the world’s current top riders from North

The FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC)

America rode in this competition when they were in

for both show jumping and dressage, the only FEI

their youth, and we are proud to have a hand in the

championship held annually on this continent, will

development of these future stars. Dressage has not

join the calendar from August 11 - 15, 2021 (after a

been held at Flintfields Horse Park in many years, so

hiatus in 2020 when they were supposed to be held

we are hoping this marks the return of dressage to

at Flintfields Horse Park for the first time). The NAYC

the showgrounds!” said Matt Morrissey.

is a historic annual event aimed to provide aspiring

Additionally, equestrians from Illinois, Indiana,

elite athletes with the opportunity to gain valuable

Kentucky, Michigan, and Ohio will be given an

team competition experience in a championship

opportunity to compete in Traverse City when the

atmosphere,

zone

USHJA Zone 5 Jumper Team Championships make

alongside a group of their peers. It is the premier

their premiere August 4 - 8, 2021. Like NAYC,

representing

their

region

or

The Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel International Ring hosted this year’s major championships.

Photo credit Allyson Lagiovane/Phelps Media Group

Photo credit Allyson Lagiovane/Phelps Media Group

Sydney Shulman and Villamoura were one of the American Gold Cup class winners. the Championships will consist of both team and

companies and organizations throughout Michigan,

individual competitions, pitting eligible horse-and-

and this feels like an appropriate extension of that

rider pairs against each other after qualifying in their

throughout the Midwest.”

respective division at USEF-licensed competitions.

With Traverse City Horse Shows’ experienced

The finals also offer chances to earn Zone Horse of

team at the helm, equestrians and their families

the Year points in the 1.10/1.15m Children’s and

from the Midwest and beyond can look forward to

Amateur Jumper, 1.20/1.25m Junior and Amateur

world-class competition throughout 2021 and the

Jumper, and 1.30/1.35m Junior and Amateur Jumper

years to come. If the past is any indication, then

sections.

each coming year will bring a compelling collection

“As a native Midwesterner myself, I’m so happy

of upgrades and additions that will continue to

that we will be hosting the USHJA Zone 5 Jumper

attract equestrians of all skill levels to Traverse City

Team Championships in Michigan in 2021,” remarked

Horse Shows.

Tom Blankenship, TCHS horse show manager. “This is an important competition for equestrians in the surrounding states, and we are all ready to showcase what Traverse City Horse Shows has to offer. Our

Photo credit Allyson Lagiovane/Phelps Media Group

team has formed great relationships with local

Sophia Mitchell and Chevito were the Large Junior Hunter 16 - 17 Champions.

63

Including 2 weeks of Of Competition

FEI 5*!

dressage

By Olivia Lagoy-Weltz

Photo credit AdobeStock/RD-Fotografie

It’s on, until it’s not on Making plans for international competitions in a time of uncertainty

Friends, fellow riders, and Lono enthusiasts have

predict what could get canceled. So, what is the plan

been asking a lot of questions lately about what my

for this season? 2021? This season is business as usual.

plans are for this upcoming season. It’s a good and

We leave for Florida at the beginning of November

fair question, and while it seems like it should be

and will take our time to get everyone clipped and

complicated, I’ve made the choice to not let it be.

settled in. We’re not doing any crazy-early November

You cannot plan for what you cannot predict. And

CDI’s, but we won’t wait too long to show in case

stressing about something you cannot control is not a

they have to cancel things again. Depending on how

good idea, though I do plenty of it at times. The best

Lono feels, shows will start for us in December or

thing you can do is to make a plan as if everything is

January, and then we will take it from there.

going to go according to that plan but be ready for things to change at any moment. Sounds complicated,

In terms of the World Cup, it doesn’t make sense

right? Not really. There’s the plan, the back-up plan,

for us to go this year because it’s in Sweden and

and then the other plan. And after that, you just think

the Olympics are our bigger priority. The number of

on your feet. This is life with horses.

shows needed for us to re-qualify for the Olympics is two Grand Prix and two Grand Prix Specials, so two

66

People have been asking what I think will happen

shows total. Picking your shows when there are so

with shows this year—if they will happen at all. My

many to choose from is always an art. You want to

answer to everyone has been that there is no way to

try to time it for when your horse is feeling at its

“

“

What’s the plan if things don’t go as planned this season? Same thing

we’ve been doing all year—analyze the situation, don’t overreact, make a plan, and execute the plan. Olivia Lagoy-Weltz

best. Different shows count for different amounts

have more overlap with all the rest of the barns

of FEI World ranking points, as do your placings

then we would maybe care to think about.

in addition to your scores. Our selection process is based on scores, not points, but your World

Due to the virus’s ability to spread before you

Ranking affects where you can end up in the draw

even know you have it (if you ever know you have

for big competitions. Sometimes strategizing can

it), combined with the fact that the population of

make one’s head spin and that’s when it’s great to

Wellington more than doubles during the winter

have a little outside perspective from your trainers

show season, combined with the level of possible

and coaches and friends to help you make a plan.

overlap between barns—a + b + c = we could have

Don’t be afraid to make it a team effort if you can.

a perfect storm on our hands if we don’t all do our part.

Photo credit AdobeStock/Natalia Shelestyukova

My biggest concern for Florida is the social commingling. The Florida winter season is a very

On top of being worried about the health

social environment where people from all over the

and safety of the entire equine community, I’m

country (maybe the world) come together. People

particularly concerned about my clients and my

will be flying up and down the east coast to ride

staff. I have several lovely clients that are part of

and show, though maybe less now due to the

the high-risk demographic, and I know I’m not the

uptick in working from home. I know several of my

only professional in this position. I also need to

clients have friends at their former barns that they

contend with making sure that the 18 horses under

like to go socialize with. Similarly, the lovely ladies

my roof continue to receive the same level of care

that work for me have lots of friends from other

no matter what situation arises. I hate to imagine

barns, too. My biggest worry is the possibility of

how hard that would be if all of my staff got sick,

spreading the virus within the horse community if

or even two out of four. Fortunately, our day-to-

there is an outbreak. Between vets, farriers, feed

day operations are all outside, and we tend not

store deliveries, horse shows, and social events, we

to be in tight situations, so the likelihood of this

dressage

after that, you just think on your feet. Olivia Lagoy-Weltz

“

“

There’s the plan, the back-up plan, and then the other plan. And

happening is not necessarily high, but it’s still something

hopefuls used Wellington as their training ground for the

to be conscientious about, especially if/when visiting

lead up to the Olympics. I could see them coming back to

other barns.

Wellington for that again this year. At the end of the day, it’s going to come down to how comfortable people are

Another question people have been asking me is if

with traveling and how comfortable they are with being

the Europeans will come to Wellington this season, and

away from home during a pandemic. And if things get

if not, what does that mean for our qualifications. I can’t

shut down again, international riders could get stuck in

say for sure, obviously, but I would guess that some

the US for an unpredictable amount of time.

will come and some will not. Helgstrand Dressage will definitely be bringing a group of horses for sale again.

*

*

*

With travel being restricted all summer, there has been a high demand for imported horses, so it will potentially be a very good season for sales.

So, what’s the plan if things don’t go as planned this season? Same thing we’ve been doing all year—analyze the situation, don’t overreact, make a new plan, execute

In terms of competition riders—I don’t know. There

that plan, and try to be ready if that plan falls through.

is no shortage of shows in Europe during the winter

Adapt, be fluid, try not to absorb every horrible thing

months, so I could see Europeans who usually come here

that’s going on in the world, don’t take everything

to train and show deciding to stay home this year. On the

(including yourself) too seriously, and make the best of

other hand, being in Florida allows European riders from

what you have and where you’re at. It can be hard, but

cold countries to be outside in warm weather all winter,

try to have fun with it. Buy lots of cute face masks to go

so they may decide to brave the travel for more desirable

with every outfit. I saw online that you can buy sets of

working conditions. Last year, many of the Japanese team

matching face masks and stock ties. Perfect! Send me 10.

Photo credit AdobeStock/matilda553

special

Happy birthday fergus He has hundreds of thousands of followers on

The Essential Fergus the Horse, and now, Abernethy

Facebook and a surging presence on Instagram. Each day,

celebrates his age―and the wisdom that should come with

he and his diverse group of friends share their mishaps,

it―with an all-new selection of horsey humor, including

their successes, and their innermost thoughts with the

many cartoons fans have never seen before, created

world. He is seemingly ageless, looking even better now

exclusively for this book. With a genuine appeal that

than when his ascent to fame began. Who is this intriguing

crosses boundaries of breed, discipline, and geographic

Internet celebrity? Fergus the Horse (Equus hilarious), the

location, Fergus unites anyone with an eye for a horse and

creation of artist Jean Abernethy, has been entertaining

a need for a laugh. Readers of all ages―from 5 to 95―will

audiences―young and old, in print and online―with his

be delighted by his wit, honesty, and profoundly funny

comedic adventures for the past 20 years. His rise to

observations on horses, humans, and the life they strive to

fame was documented in the epic equine comic collection

live together. Get your copy at horseandriderbooks.com.

HAMPTON CLASSIC

AUG 29

SEPT 5

See you next summer! hamptonclassic.com

#hamptonclassic 81

e d i to r i a l

Photo credit Anne Gittin

Laura and Dani

72

| equine america maGaZine

Direct from Oz? Horses of a Different Color

By Holly Johnson - Equinium Sports Marketing

How Spotted Breeds are Becoming a Competition Favorite Among Amateurs and Professionals Alike

For anyone who grew up loving

Adiah HP stand out at the top of

horses, you might remember the

the sport as literal figurines of

“Horse of a Different Color” from

what’s

1939’s musical fantasy classic, The

world stood up and took notice of

Wizard of Oz, as one of the most

their success, and now more and

iconic scenes from any movie.

more amateurs are opening their

The color changing horse drew a

hearts, barns, and show schedules

carriage in the mythical Emerald

to horses of a different color.

City, changing from bright white

possible.

Wellington’s

The

equestrian

spotted

sport

to iridescent purple, red, and gold

horse, Danash’s Northern Tempest

as it pranced its way through the

(aka “Dani the Wonder Horse”), is

city with Dorothy and her crew in

an Appaloosa Friesian mare who is

tow. In reality, four horses were

bringing her unique combination of

colored with lemon, cherry, and

intelligence, athleticism, and spots

grape flavored powdered gelatin to

to the hunter ring hunter derbies

achieve the technicolor spectacular,

(and the cover of EQuine AMerica

bringing the magic to life.

Magazine). In Wellington, where

These days, less iridescent (but

year-round competition is staged at

in no way less beautiful) multi-

the iconic Palm Beach International

colored horses are finding their

Equestrian Center, Laura Reece rides

way into America’s show rings.

and trains Dani under the guidance

Harnessing (quite literally) our love

of Ashley Glica of ATG Equestrian.

for unique coat colors, breeds like

Ashley and Dani have competed

Appaloosas,

and

in a few USHJA National Hunter

Pintos are become an increasingly

Derbies, the most recent of which

common site, even in traditionally

was in early October on the grass

conservative arenas like hunters

field at the Global Dressage Festival

and

Prix

show grounds, against some of

Dressage National Champions and

the country’s top Derby horses.

Breyer Models, Pam Fowler-Grace’s

While Dani is still green, her willing

Appaloosa gelding Pay N Go and

temperament and talent stand out

Jim Koford’s Dutch Friesian mare

even beyond her stunning spots.

Knabstruppers,

dressage.

As

Grand

73

o u r w o r ld

Photo credit ©susanjstickle.com

Jim Koford on Adiah HP

“Dani is the horse that has helped me return

official sport horse show career. She and Laura

to the show ring after a long sabbatical from

won the Rusty Stirrup division at the 2019-

riding,” said her rider Laura. “With Ashley’s

2020 ESP Holiday show and many ribbons since

help, Dani has really blossomed, and her lovely

in the Hunter Derby, USHJA, and Green Hunter

coat is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes

Classes at the 2020 Winter Equestrian Festival.

to her charms. Sometimes we forget how green

Her highly engaged and quickly growing social

she is, she acts like a seasoned professional and

media following, along with media attention,

loves her work. She regularly works in dressage,

has granted Dani national adoration and

as well as over fences, to build her strength,

exposure.

topline, and suppleness. I’m really excited for what 2021 will bring for us.”

While Dani is not the typical Hunter horse, she is a classic example of patterned coats

Owned by Palm Beach Sport Horses and

becoming the norm, especially in Wellington.

standing at 17 hands, Dani is a 2013 Leopard

She follows in the footprints of pinto and

Appaloosa Friesian cross, currently registered

spotted ponies first debuting in the pony hunter

with the Friesian Heritage Horse & Sporthorse

rings in the early 90s. One classic example, the

International as well as with the United States

pony that may have set the color standard, is

Equestrian Federation (USEF). She was bred in

Sam I Am, a tri-color pony of unknown breeding

Cheboygan, Michigan by Jessica Bowman of

ridden to many top finishes by Amy Balius

North Horse Farm. In 2017, she was purchased

(formerly Cline). Sam’s blue eye and bright bay

by Palm Beach Sport Horses and began her

coat with spectacular white splotches paired

e d i to r i a l

with a sweet, spunky personality and super

where you see a sea of bay horses and then a

scope, launched him into numerous Small Pony

flashy pinto or palomino trots by—it can really

Hunter Championships at the Winter Equestrian

catch your eye.”

Festival and Colorado Summer Horse Show

On the opposite coast, another spotted sport

circuit, as well as ribbons at Pony Finals and the

horse has been taking a young lady through the

Devon Horse Show where he was the Small Pony

basics of dressage. Stonewall Tango, a coming

Hunter Stake Class winner. Amy remembers

6-year-old, is a mix of Knabstrupper, Friesian,

that Sam was one of the only small tri-colored

Arabian, and Saddlebred lineage. He was bred

ponies at the time, and that he quickly became

by Michael Muir and is by Prevailer LR and out

a fan favorite. Most importantly though, Sam

of Stonewall Fantasia; he’s officially deemed a

defined her riding career as a pony rider and

Stonewall Sport Horse. “Tango” was originally

beyond, setting a standard in both color and

started as an eventer but has come to focus

quality that was, and still is, hard to match.

on dressage, staying true to the dancing brand

“Sam gave me a sense of security and trust

in his name. And since it takes two to tango,

whenever I rode him,” said Amy. “He had a

Blake Hengel has grown her bond with this

bouncy little trot and jumped a lot higher than

striking gelding since she began riding him

he needed to, zoning in on the jumps. He would

when he was just a 3-year-old. Blake and Tango

find the jumps for me, and his favorite distance

work with dressage trainer Sandy Savage at

was the long shot—he would fool everyone

Clay Station Ranch in Wilton, California, and

with his scope! Most judges would smile during

have had ribbons at Training and First Level

our round as they were thoroughly surprised by

shows, including the Starr Vaughn July show

his jumping style! Some judges loved him, but

and Rancho Murieta JR/YR Championships. She

some were not a fan of his three colors,” she

said, while everyone loves his spots and they

explained. “I think the colored coats are much

attract a lot of attention wherever they go,

more accepted now, and it can really make a

Tango’s best attribute is his personality and the

difference, especially in the big hack classes

affection he shows.

Amy with Sam I Am Photo credit Kathy Cline

e d i to r i a l Photo credit Dr. Lauren Klutchka

Murder Hollow Knabstrupper foal 77

o u r w o r ld

Photo courtesy of Blake Hengel

Blake and Stonewall Tango

“We have a very strong bond, since I’ve had

color 100% of the time, and he is currently in

him since he was a baby,” said Blake. “He’s

dressage and eventing training with Dean Graham

very smart and needs the mental stimulation of

and Meghan Fischer-Graham at their Avalon

training and working so he doesn’t get bored.

Enterprises in Reddick, Florida.

He is very easy going for such a young horse,

Based

in

Chester

County,

Pennsylvania,

and he is a total ham in the show ring. He knows

Renee manages her own broodmares and Pax’s

people are watching and likes to show off. He

breeding schedule out of her gorgeous, spooky-

has nice, comfortable gaits that are getting more

named farm, Murder Hollow, where she produces

powerful as he grows in strength. I’m excited for

approximately 12-15 foals per year, with her first

the 2021 show season. I can’t wait to see how far

group hitting the ground back in 2016. So far, the

he can go in dressage!”

results of her crossings have been a lot of color

To meet this growing demand for spotted and

and a focus on FEI-level bloodlines.

colorful sport horses, one breeder in Pennsylvania,

Knabstrupper is a European warmblood

Renee Tucci, spent 7 years searching for the

(Knabstrupperforeningen for Danmark (KNN) is

perfect stud to bring color and type to the US

the warmblood book). Variations include a full

Knabstruppers and other breeds. Pax Asgard af

leopard print, a pattern that resembles a blanket

Pegasus, “Pax” for short, is that stud. His first

Appaloosa, and a “fewspot” pattern, which

crop of foals hit the ground in 2020 and he was

resembles a typical solid coat. With some of the

bred to 50+ mares for 2021. Many of her 2021

earliest recordings of spotted equines in Denmark

homebreds by Pax (which all come from approved,

dating from the 1600s, the heavily patterned

actively competing dressage, show jumping, and

horses were used almost exclusively by royalty

driving warmblood mares) have already been sold

and nobility while the fewspot horses were

in utero. Pax’s genes ensure that he will throw

used for carriage driving, mainly because it

e d i to r i a l

Photo credit Dr. Lauren Klutchka

Murder Hollow Knabstrupper mare and foal

is easier to match the fewspot horses’ colors

and athleticism for the FEI disciplines,” explains

for a team. Because the Knabstrupper is a

Renee. “The breed has really only been in the US

warmblood,

sport

for about fifteen years and is quickly becoming

horses like Hanoverians, KWPNs, Oldenburgs,

a favorite for both professionals and amateurs.

and Trakehners result in horses that are fully

We searched long and hard to find a stud

registered and can be approved through the

who could throw both color and type, which

stud books. The KNN requires lineage as well as

we finally found in Pax. We have had a large

inspection, grading, presentation, and scored

demand for him this year; for 2021 he has been

performances for a horse to be accepted into the

bred to many of the classic warmblood sport

stud book.

horse breeds, as well as outside mare books

crossings

with

popular

Murder Hollow’s focus has been on the

such as Friesian and Haflinger. We are really

sport horse-type Knabstrupper, refining the

looking forward to seeing how he imparts his

draft horse and classic type attributes to create

color and sporty qualities to such a variety of

a horse destined for the sport horse show rings.

mares.”

Murder Hollow’s own mares currently compete

Celebrities like Pay N Go and Adiah HP, and

in eventing, dressage, and particularly driving,

amateur stars like Dani, Sam I Am, and Tango

where their Four-In-Hand, Pairs, and Singles

unabashedly show off their spots and splotches.

teams work with superstar veterans like Jimmy

Together, they’ve set a competitive precedent for

Fairclough and Sterling Graburn.

non-traditional colors on America’s show scene,

“All of our hand selected broodmares have

while breeders like Murder Hollow are producing

current or past show histories, and we focus

color and type for the modern sport horse―

very much on temperament, conformation,

creating a sport horse of a different color.

e d i to r i a l

Photo USEA/Jessica Duffy

(Advanced Division A) 1st place team Sharon White and Cooley On Show

Morven Park

Fall International Horse Trials October 2 – 4, 2020 / All photos by Steven Long

80

Morven Park has proudly featured annual horse trials

trials. Unfortunately, like so many competitions this year,

since 1974, and it wasn’t about to sit 2020 out, at least

the new CCI4*-L division was canceled along with all

not entirely. The 2020 Morven Park Fall International

of Morven’s FEI divisions. Nevertheless, the event went

Horse Trials was originally supposed to host a brand

forward with the Novice through Advanced horse trials

new CCI4*-L division alongside their existing CCI4*-S,

divisions on what ended up being a perfect fall weekend

CCI3*-S, CCI2*-S, and Novice through Advanced horse

in northern Virginia.

Ev e n t i n g

(Advanced Division A) 2nd place team Will Coleman and Tight Lines

Sharon White and Meghan O’Donoghue finished on top of the podium in their Advanced divisions

(Advanced Division A) 3rd place team Bruce Davidson and Carlevo

in first, second, and third place (respectively) after the stadium jumping phase.

(A and B respectively). Sharon, aboard Irish Sport Horse, Cooley on Show, overtook Will Coleman

Top Three Final Scores (all USA):

on Tight Lines and Boyd Martin on Long Island T

Advanced Division A

after finishing only 17 seconds over the seven-

1st. Sharon White on Cooley On Show (36.30)

minute optimum time set for Tremaine Cooper’s

2nd. Will Coleman on Tight Lines (37.20)

challenging cross country course (no one finished

3rd. Bruce Davidson, Jr. on Carlevo (39.00)

at optimum time). Meghan, aboard her own OTTB, Palm Crescent, also moved up the leader board from

Advanced Division B

fourth to first, overtaking Ariel Grald on Leamore

1st. Meghan O’Donoghue on Palm Crescent (40.50)

Master Plan (who executed a planned withdrawal

2nd. Boyd Martin on Luke 140 (41.90)

from the cross country phase), Maya Black on Miks

3rd. Will Faudree on Mama’s Magic Way (42.40)

Master C, and Boyd Martin on Luke 140, who stood

For full scores from the weekend, click here.

81

(Advanced Division B) 1st place team Meghan O’Donoghue and Palm Crescent

eventing

(Advanced Division B) 2nd place team Boyd Martin and Luke 140

(Advanced Division B) 3rd place team Will Faudree and Mama’s Magic Way

TRIBUTE: Alexandra Sacksen and the late Sparrow’s Nio

84

Sparrow’s Nio (Grange Finn Sparrow X JB), a

way up the levels, competing at the prestigious

15.3-hand 17-year-old Connemara/Thoroughbred

Kentucky Three-Day Event three times. Together,

gelding owned and ridden by Alexandra Sacksen,

Nio and Sacksen completed 66 USEA recognized

collapsed between fences 19 and 20 while on

events, 23 at the Advanced, four-star, and five-

cross-country in the Advanced division at the

star level. They competed in 26 FEI competitions,

2020 Morven Park Fall International Horse Trials

earning seven top-10 finishes. Sparrow’s Nio was a

on Saturday, October 3rd. In their 10 years spent

fan favorite who will be remembered for his love of

competing together, Sacksen and Nio went all the

a good cross country gallop.

EVENTING

Photo Credit ©MGO Photography

(CCI4* 1st place team) Tamra Smith & Danito

Coming Together, Six Feet Apart Woodside International Horse Trials Presented by Robert Kellerhouse October 8 – 11, 2020

Like many equestrian facilities in the US, The

return to competition in August, hosting an exciting

Horse Park at Woodside has experienced serious

horse trial with Robert Kellerhouse’s Woodside

challenges

curtailed

Eventing. Park members, show staff, exhibitors and

activities this year. Located in the San Francisco

generous volunteers all followed COVID-19 safety

Bay Area, the Park rests in one of nine California

measures, including masks and social distancing,

counties that were first in the nation to issue a

and the success of the competition paved the way

Shelter-in-Place order for COVID-19. By mid-March,

for the much-anticipated October CCI4* event.

resulting

in

significantly

only “essential personnel” were allowed on site to

August and September brought unprecedented

care for resident horses, and all near-term events on

wildfires to forests only miles away from the

the Park’s show calendar were cancelled to comply

Park. Barn talk became consumed with air quality

with local mandates. In step with policy changes and

indices, eerie orange skies, and soot layers on

public health protocols, the Park was thrilled to see a

cars. Shows were necessarily halted or cancelled,

Photo Credit ©MGO Photography

(CCI4* 2nd place team) Erin Kellerhouse & Woodford Reserve

people tried to stay indoors, and local vets

facility and stiff competition.

shared information on how to ensure horse

As

a

nonprofit

organization,

The

Horse

health and safety in ash-filled air. The Horse

Park at Woodside exists because of dedicated

Park at Woodside and other neighboring farms

equestrians. For this exciting CCI4* Horse Trial,

took in equine refugees from fire areas, with

Friends of the Park and Woodside Eventing

lineups of trailers at rescue rendezvous points

signed up in droves to serve as volunteer jump

demonstrating the strength and generosity of

judges to watch the amazing athletes fly. As

the horse community. Heroic efforts by CAL Fire

spectators were not allowed and headcounts

and shifts in weather brought clear air, setting

were strictly controlled, Directors from the Park’s

the stage for Woodside Eventing’s thrilling CCI4*

Board of Governors supported health and safety

competition at the Park. Course designers Ian

measures, playing the role of cheery “COVID

Stark and Bert Wood laid out spectacular cross-

Cops” with sanitizer and extra masks on hand.

country tracks for the various levels competing,

All

and Park staff worked tirelessly to ensure Park

performances, with Pan American Games Gold

readiness and top-tier footing while maintaining

Medalist Tamra “Tamie” Smith (USA) putting on

COVID-19 vigilance. USEA Performance Director

a riders’ master class. Tamie not only won the

of US Eventing, Erik Duvander, was also on hand,

CCI4* division with an outstanding performance―

elevating the excitement by observing top-caliber

she pulled a hat trick―finishing atop the podium

riders and sharing feedback on the well-prepped

in the two other FEI levels as well.

in

attendance

enjoyed

truly

spectacular

Photo Credit ©MGO Photography

(CCI3* 1st place team) Tamra Smith & Solaguayre California

Throughout this most unusual and trying year

safety, joy, and the equestrian sport a unified

that is 2020, The Horse Park at Woodside has been

reality. The CCI4* made for a thrilling capstone

continually impressed by equestrians’ commitment

of superior riding which we now follow with

to their community. The Park also appreciates the

downtime for quieter moments to commune in

professionalism of Woodside Eventing and all the

nature with our four-legged friends.”

eventers who support the sport and the facilities that make it possible. In the words of Executive

CCI4* Top Five Final Scores:

Director Steve Roon, “We express our deepest

1st. Tamra Smith on Denito (33.60)

thanks to our members, donors, staff, exhibitors,

2nd. Erin Kellerhouse on Woodford Reserve (36.40)

volunteers, public health and safety officials,

3rd. Emilee Libby on Jakobi (43.70)

show producers, Board of Governors, and friends.

4th. Lauren Billys on Castle Larchfield Purdy (44.00)

When we look back at this year, we will not forget

5th. James Allison on Paper Jam (53.90)

the challenges, but mostly we will marvel at the camaraderie of all who came together to make

All other final scores can be found here.

eventing Photo Credit ©MGO Photography

(CCI3* 2nd place team) Rebecca Braitling & Caravaggio Photo Credit ©MGO Photography

(CCI4* 4th place team) Lauren Billys & Castle Larchfield Purdy Photo Credit ©️ Steven Rice

(Open Preliminary 1st place team) James Alliston & Pandora

ŠKristin Dokoza

We are deeply grateful for all the equestrian community has done to come together and support each other in this incredibly challenging year.

As a nonprofit committed to horse sport, land stewardship and communing in nature, The Horse Park at Woodside counts on our community. Equestrian bonds bring us together, and our mutual investment ensures the success of The Horse Park at Woodside for years to come.

Please consider making a year-end gift to support our mission to promote high caliber horse sport, equestrian education and responsible land stewardship with a tax-deductible donation to www.horsepark.org.

LOVE THE HORSE FIRST BECOME A MEMBER SECOND

THREE PHASES, TWO PARTNERS, ONE GOAL #BetterTogether | www.useventing.com

Kinesiology Taping

the Lumbosacral Junction

By Carrie Washburn Performance Equine – Integrated Therapies

Have you ever had the frustrating feeling that your horse feels “flat” and is having trouble engaging? Does it feel like lifting their shoulders and sitting on their hind end is harder than normal?

Oftentimes we think our equine partner is just being lazy, but what we often don’t realize is that

94

physiotherapy technique that can provide some relief.

they are feeling sore. Just as you or I would feel

In nearly all horses that I’ve had the privilege

after a trip to the gym, our equine partner can

to work on—whether employed in show jumping,

experience sore, tired muscles. They, just like us,

dressage, cutting, reining, or trail riding—at some

can benefit greatly from bodywork to help those

point in their careers they all experience soreness

sore, tired areas.

in the Lumbosacral Junction. This is the area

There are many potential reasons why your

where the lumbar and sacral spine meet. If you

equine partner is experiencing that flat feeling,

follow along on the Lumbar Spine to just before

but for now I want to teach you about one area

the croup, you should be able to feel a brief pause

that I find quite prominently affected in this

in the spine. The vertebrae “stop” briefly with a

situation, and guide you through a noninvasive

soft spot before the start of the Sacral Spine. The

| EQuine America Magazine

F OR THE G OO D O F THE HORSE

All Photos by Carrie Washburn

Step 1

Step 2

Lumbar and Sacral spines meet at this junction to form a “V” shape. It is at this “V” that we will want to concentrate on.

The best modality that I have found to help treat is

soreness

kinesiology

in

the

tape.

Lumbosacral By

simply

Junction

applying

a

decompression taping over that “V” you can help or totally mitigate that flat feeling. This kind of taping is very effective and easy to apply.

After you have located the soft spot between the vertebrae of the Lumbar and Sacral spines, you will need to measure and cut a strip of extra sticky kinesiology tape about 16 – 18 inches long (it does not need to be exact). You’ll apply the tape along the spine at about 50% stretch (you will need to break the tape’s backing in the middle to be able to stretch the middle section of the tape).

I prefer to apply the middle, stretched portion

Step 3 95

F OR THE G OO D O F THE HORSE

first, and then apply each end with zero stretch. You will want to make sure that the tape covers the “V” in the middle of the tape and has about eight inches on either side of the “V” that is two to four inches wide.

I prefer to use Rock Tape H2O (the extra sticky version made for humans), Rock Tape Equine, or Vetkin. (Photo 3).

After you have applied the tape along the spine, you will apply two more pieces forming an “X” over the top of the original tape. The “X” should cross directly over the soft “V” spot between the vertebrae. These strips should be applied the same as your first tape: 50% stretch in the middle, apply the middle section first, then apply the ends (approximately two inches on each side of the stretched middle) with zero stretch.

(Photo 4).

Voila! You’re done! I usually give the horse 12 – 24hrs off after application and I like to leave the tape applied for about 48hrs or so. If possible, longer will not hurt, but it may become irritating and is not necessarily more effective. You can absolutely ride your equine partner with the tape on. You can apply it at a show or event. Most organizations will not let you compete with it on, but you can use it before and after back at the barn.

(I am not a veterinarian and this article does not constitute veterinary advice. Equine bodywork and kinesiology tape are not substitutes for proper veterinary care.)

Step 4

96

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Photo credit USEA/Leslie Mintz

ORANGE ON BLUE:

How the Modified Level is Bridging the Gap

By Jessica Duffy/USEA Staff

For years, eventing in the United States had six distinct recognized levels: Beginner Novice, Novice, Training, Preliminary, Intermediate, and Advanced.

The divide between Training and Preliminary is generally recognized as the step from the lower levels to the upper levels. This level upgrade introduced many new challenges including fence height, fence width, faster speed, and increased complexities in all three phases.

98

In 2016, the USEA Board of Governors approved

minute. Cross-country courses can include angled

the addition of a seventh recognized level between

lines, corners, varied terrain, and combinations

Training and Preliminary. This new “Modified” level

with water or narrow fences and the show jumping

would help to bridge the gap between the upper

course includes two doubles or a double and a

and lower levels and provide a steppingstone to

triple combination. The dressage test is held in the

help riders better prepare for their move up.

short court (20 x 40 meters) and includes leg yield,

In order to compete at the Modified level, horses

medium gaits, and changes of lead through the trot.

and riders need to achieve two National Qualifying

In 2017, the first year the USEA offered the

Results (NQRs) at the Training level. Horses need to

Modified level, there were just three events that

be at least 4 years of age to compete. The maximum

offered the level and it saw a total of 22 starters.

height for cross-country and show jumping is

That grew exponentially in 2018, with 13 events

3’5”, and cross-country speed is 490 meters per

offering the Modified level with a total of 231

Photo credit USEA/Leslie Mintz

eventing

starters. In 2019, there were 32 events across the

Jacqueline Mars’s 9-year-old Dutch Warmblood

country which offered the Modified level, and 576

mare Get Gaudi (Alicante HBC x Second Floor) at

horse-and-rider combinations started at the level.

the Ocala Winter I Horse Trials in February 2019)

So far in 2020, even with the impact of COVID-19,

and best finishing score (22.6 aboard Brandye

there have been 25 events that have offered the

Randermann’s 7-year-old Latvian Warmblood I’ll

Modified level with 565 starters, and nine events

Have Another (Gaultjers x Kameja) at the Grand

are still set to run Modified divisions this year.

Oaks Horse Trials in January 2020). “I’ve really

In its first year, events offering Modified could

appreciated the addition of the Modified level and

be found in Areas II, III, and IV. In 2018, Areas I

have found it very useful,” Nicholson said. “For

and VII ran their first Modified level events, and

these horses, they were ready in their education to

Area X joined in with a Modified division in 2019.

practice more technicality cross-country and learn

Area VIII became the seventh of the 10 USEA Areas

how to jump out of more pace/gallop, but they

to offer Modified this year. Thirteen out of 50

were still a bit green or young and we didn’t want

states have events currently running the Modified

to risk them making a mistake at a Preliminary-

level, with the highest concentration in Areas II

sized fence and scaring themselves or setting

(Maryland) and III (Florida).

themselves back.”

Despite the effect that COVID-19 has had

“I think the Modified level has been a great

on this year’s eventing calendar, the number of

way to teach them more technicality and speed

starters at the Modified level is now outpacing all

without the fences being too big or unforgiving to

FEI divisions in 2019, as well as Advanced. So, at

green mistakes,” Nicholson continued. “Courses

this same time in 2019, there were fewer starters

at all levels over the last 10 years have become

in each of the CCI*, CCI2*-S, CCI2*-L, CCI3*-S,

increasingly difficult, and for these careful/scopey

CCI3*-L, CCI4*-S, CCI4*-L, and CCI5*-L levels,

young horses, the Modified level is a much nicer

as well as Advanced, than there have been at the

and more gradual steppingstone then making the

Modified level this year.

jump directly from Training to Preliminary.”

The Modified level has benefitted horses and

Amateur rider Blake Fortson used the Modified

riders alike. Lauren Nicholson (née Kieffer) holds

level to bolster his mare’s confidence after a sticky

the records for best dressage score (19.1 aboard

move-up from Training to Preliminary. “We were

99

eventing

winning everything at Training level all last year and I

the days to do all the conditioning work that we really

felt like it was time to move up,” Fortson explained of

need [for Preliminary], and that’s what I realized when

his partnership with Quiana AF (Quite Easy x All That

I tried to move up to Preliminary – she just wasn’t fit

Glitters), his 6-year-old Oldenburg mare. “A lot of people

enough yet for Preliminary, and I didn’t have the time to

encouraged me to move straight to Preliminary, but

get her fit enough.”

since the Modified level was there, I did a Modified, but

“Modified has been super helpful in that you have

I didn’t feel like the Modified was actually that different

the questions, the time is more manageable, and

from Training level at that point. From a lot of organizers

the width of the jumps, which I feel is the biggest

and designers I’d talked to, they were kind of figuring it

difference between Training and Preliminary. It’s a more

out as well, using Training jumps and Preliminary jumps

approachable introduction to all those elements.”

to make a course that worked. So, I moved my horse up

Fortson has taken his time this year at the Modified

to Preliminary, and it didn’t go so well so we dropped

level, really making sure that his horse was fit and ready

back down.”

to step back up to Preliminary. “I ran the last Modified

COVID-19 interrupted Fortson’s plans for the spring

like a Preliminary speed-wise to get the horse and myself

season, but he started his summer season at Modified.

comfortable with that speed over more manageable

“I feel like the organizers and course designers have

jumps. It’s been a real training experience between the

really figured it out and were doing it in a way that really

Training level and the Preliminary level. It is such a big

benefitted the horse and rider as a transition between

jump between the two levels.”

Training and Preliminary,” he observed. “As an Amateur

Joanie Morris, another Amateur eventer, and her

with a full-time job, I ride in the evenings, I don’t have

6-year-old Thoroughbred gelding, Betterthanexpected

Photo credit USEA/Leslie Mintz

eventing

Photo credit USEA/Leslie Mintz

(Malibu Moon x The Best Day Ever), have also taken

(he was finding Training a bit on the easy side),

advantage of the Modified level as a training tool.

but they tend to be of a more forgiving design

“He came up through the USEA Young Event Horse

and size than Preliminary, so if we make a mistake

(YEH) program and was third in the Championship

it’s a learning experience more than a knock to

last year,” Morris said. “He’s been fun and easy

our confidence. Modified is a perfect middle

to produce and did his first Preliminary in March.

ground for a developing horse and/or rider. It’s

He did that quite easily, but it was definitely

really inspired me to be competitive at a level that

challenging for both of us. I didn’t want to have

requires more technical attention to detail.”

every event feel like a challenge for him.”

Like Fortson, Morris’s plans for the year were disrupted

by

COVID-19.

When

Morris

and

Betterthanexpected

have

also

completed two CCI*-S and one CCI*-L this

competition

year, the FEI equivalent to the national Modified

started up again, she elected to come out at the

level. “This level has been the making of what I

Modified level. “It feels like it’s well within his

hope continues to be a super horse as he moves

capacity given his training and strength, but the

up the levels,” she said. “All three phases at

courses are definitely more technical than the

Chattahoochee

Training level without the bigger jumping efforts

jumping clear over a very tough Chris Barnard

you see at Preliminary that can challenge a young

track was really rewarding as we’ve worked super

horse physically over a longer course,” she said.

hard on his jumping. He cruised around the cross-

“I want to keep him confident and enjoying the

country so easily, and there was a very influential

sport. It’s been the perfect level for him to learn

combination at fence 4 which he really read and

at and gain experience and each event he feels

understood even though he’s not seen the exact

like a better horse. Thoroughbreds are obviously

question before – a testament to his education at

bred to gallop, but this has been a great place

the level.”

to build his strength in the other two phases as well.”

Hills

were

memorable:

show

Christel Carlson organizes the Spokane Sport Horse Farm Horse Trials, the only event in Area

“For me, if you look at the results at the level

VII or anywhere on the West Coast to offer the

as a whole, the time can be challenging to make

Modified level. “I felt that the opportunity for

on the cross-country,” Morris observed. “So it’s

our Area was important,” she said of making the

a great level to practice riding out of rhythm and

choice to host the Modified level. “We also offer

daring yourself to take on the time. For my horse,

schooling and clinic opportunities throughout the

the jumps are big enough to hold his attention

year as well as our two recognized events. We host

Photo credit USEA/Leslie Mintz

our Area VII Adult Rider Clinic and are planning to

maybe even sustain gallop speed, at the level

progress to a FEI one-, two-, and three-star short

above. Can you gallop a show jumping fence at

format event in 2021. Modified is essentially the

the higher speed and height out in the open field

intro level for FEI now. We also hope to offer one

comfortably? Then, when faced with a course at

of the first Modified USEA Classic Series Three-Day

the level below in competition (where horse and

Events next year in the fall if competitions return

rider may become more tense due to internal or

more toward normal.”

external environment) you feel far more confident,

“The transition [from Training to Preliminary] is

are likely to be safer and more competent, probably

a difficult one,” Carlson said. “[Modified] reduces

more successful at negotiating the course, as well

the height and speed from Preliminary but allows

as you and your equine partner have much more

you to increase the questions above Training level,

fun.”

as well as the height and speed. Most importantly,

“It’s a good level to spend some time at

I believe it provides some small degree of margin

whether you are developing a horse or moving up

for safety in case of horse or rider error. For

yourself,” Morris concluded. “I have always felt

that reason, we have very few shared fences –

that the move up from Training to Preliminary is

most are new construction, and if the first jump

the biggest step up the levels, especially because

in a combination is shared then the ‘outs’ are

there seems to be some real variation in difficulty

different.”

of Preliminary courses. It’s a good place to learn

Carlson’s advice for those thinking of trying

what your strengths and weaknesses are and to

out the Modified level is to make sure you feel

allow your horse to develop their confidence.

truly prepared for the level. “Before you sign up

Everything happens just a little bit quicker at

to compete at a level, be sure you are comfortable

Modified than it does at Training, so both horse

schooling all of the dressage, show jumping and

and rider have to think faster and be confident

cross-country heights, cross-country questions,

always looking for the next jump.”

click to watch

103

Courtesy of Veronica Gogan

Veronica Gogan

Goes to PARA Nationals Interview By Lisa Hellmer

Para Dressage rider Veronica Gogan (last interviewed in our Winter 2020 issue) is back with us again to bring us along on her journey to and through the AdequanÂŽ/USEF Para Dressage National Championships held at the Tryon International Equestrian Center October 22 - 25, 2020.

EQuine AMerica: When did you first decide to make

through USPEA and we were able to use those scores to

Para National Finals a goal for you and Robin?

qualify. Fortunately, horse shows began to re-open by the

Veronica Gogan: It came about around June. Originally,

end of the summer and we were able to also get to a few

we had used the structure of our Governing Member

physical horse shows. In hindsight, these physical shows

Organization’s year-end awards as a framework for our

were absolutely critical for us; without them, we would

show season. They offered a selection of schooling and

not have been so successful at Tryon.

rated shows at different venues which gave us exposure to

104

different judges and different places. As show after show

Tell us a little background about Robin. Has he been

was cancelled due to COVID-19, we were a little lost. Hope

to a show this big before? Have you and he had a

Hand, the president of the US Para Equestrian Association

championship experience together before?

(USPEA), reached out to me mid-summer to let me know

No, Robin has never been to a horse show this big

about the Para Dressage Emerging Athletes Competition

before, Championship or otherwise. Still, Robin never

being held at the Para Dressage Nationals. We jumped on

missed a beat! When he arrived at Tryon, he walked off

it! We still had to meet the criteria to become Emerging

the trailer like he owned the place. Robin absolutely loves

Athletes, but there were virtual showing opportunities

to go off property, he loves to show, and he loves to be out

pa r a d r e s s ag e

Courtesy of Veronica Gogan

The updated 2020 Santana Horse Auction Advertisement

and about. He feigns irritation at all the pampering, but

CPEDI. There was a lot of comradery in the barn from

he actually loves it. He loves to be the center of attention.

chatting and “good lucks” to learning about each other’s

He was even recruited to be a “friendly horse” for another

equipment, meeting support teams, and admiring each

para rider. Para dressage allows for a friendly horse to

other’s horses.

stand ring side as a reassuring presence for the horse in the ring. When another rider needed it, Robin was there

How was the atmosphere at Tryon? How were they

to help. None of it seemed to faze him!

handling things with COVID-19?

The facility is amazing and still growing! The first

How did you get down to Tryon from Virginia?

two days we were there, every time I looked into the

When we set sights on the Emerging Athletes

competition ring in the indoor, I got teary eyed. It was just

Competition, we knew there were opportunities for me

a fairy tale, but the atmosphere seemed pretty subdued;

to ride a borrowed horse. At that time, we didn’t think it

things are tough with COVID-19. The show grounds are

would be in Robin’s best interest to trailer him the seven

politely and strictly enforcing social distancing and mask

hours to Tryon. As the summer progressed, he was doing

wearing. It’s very clear that the buy in to showing is that

so well that Ann-Louise Markert, Robin’s owner and our

you agree to follow the rules and it’s obvious participants

trainer, said if we could find him a professional shipper up

are doing their best. The fact that there are no spectators

to the challenge of trailering a 27-year-old stallion, who’s

is a bummer. The Washington International Horse Show

a choking risk, then we should take him to Nationals.

was moved to Tryon and running at the same time. We

Robin’s age or needs didn’t bother the shipper we found.

watched some of the biggest names in show jumping

Brewster Walker took great care of him.

from empty stands.

Where were you stabled? Who were your stable

What did you do to prep yourself as well as Robin

mates?

for this show and change of venue?

We shared a row of stalls with the other emerging

We are so glad we made it to several venues this

athletes. As we were in the National competition, we

summer, it helped us hone our timeline and warm-up.

were separate from the para horses showing in the FEI

Figuring out how to get ourselves to the ring with just the 105

Courtesy of Veronica Gogan

pa r a d r e s s ag e

right amount of time took some practice. We didn’t worry

we can start out on the buckle no matter where we go, and

about how Robin would react to anything, he’s as sensible

I can let him stretch his head down to get his topline loose.

as a horse can be. It also polished us as a team. My support

He also has about five minutes of intermittent coughing he

team is worth their weight in gold!

has to get through in the beginning of each ride, at home or away. Once we’re loose, we slowly pick up contact and

Did you have a coach with you?

focus on halts and bending. Then in the trot work, it’s

Yes, Ann-Louise Markert is Robin’s owner and our

more of the same. We both have to conserve energy, so

trainer. She has everything to do with our success. An

not overdoing it is essential. We have to have enough pep

eventer, by trade, she has embraced para dressage and

left to shine once we’re in the ring.

been 100% dedicated to our journey.

What were you most excited about?

Did you have someone with you to help you groom

I was so excited to be in the big ring with “the big

or are you doing everything yourself? If it’s just you,

kids” under the lights. The USEF, the US Para Equestrian

what’s that like and how do you do it?

Association, and Tryon International Equestrian Center

Madison Cowen is my amazing groom. She has Robin

really pulled out all the stops to make the Emerging

ready for the Olympics every time we go into the show

Athletes Competition feel like a big deal. It was exciting

ring. She is an eventer, but has owned the dressage way of

that it was live streamed so everyone at home could watch.

life for us. Robin really gives her a run for her money. He

I had never ridden in front of an international judge, much

only eats soaked food and gets several buckets of soaked

less three of them! It was a learning experience to think

alfalfa per day. His face and front legs are constantly green!

about your test from places other than C.

What is your warmup like?

What was competing at such a big show like? How

Our warm-up is 70% walk work. Between Robin’s age

did you handle your nerves?

and my muscle spasticity, the walk is the best way for us to

It was so much fun! I’m a bit of a nut when it comes

loosen up. Fortunately, Robin is a very sensible, calm guy so

to controlling my mind space, so on Thursday and Friday I

Courtesy of Veronica Gogan

pa r a d r e s s ag e

let myself be sappy, excited, sentimental, and a little

length and independent grab loops on each

nervous. But on my show days, I tucked all that away

D-ring. It took us many iterations to find a contact

and got focused. There were some nerves, but I fed

that worked for all parts of our tests. It’s still not

them a little bit to get hungry for the ring. The best

perfect, but it’s lightyears from the beginning of

part of riding for me is that negativity gets left at the

the year.

mounting block. Once I am in the stirrups, it’s go time and the horse under me is all I’m thinking about.

What’s

your

biggest

takeaway

from

Nationals?

Do you do anything special for Robin to keep

I’m here to stay! I thrived on that pit of nervous

him relaxed? Special treats or pamper sessions?

excitement and the pressure of a big horse show. I

Robin works for food! He can’t chew anything

would never have predicted I would enjoy that part

that doesn’t just dissolve, so he gets after dinner

so much. I have some big aspirations for 2021 and

peppermints. I buy them in five-pound quantities. He

am dying to get started!

knows the canister lives in the basket of my scooter and digs his nose in at every chance. He also lives to be with his mom, Ann-Louise. After we showed on

What’s next?

We’re

already

hard

at

work

to

get

Saturday, they went out for a hack. As much as he

modifications made to my saddle to incorporate

enjoyed being in the show ring, I think he enjoyed

a hard hand hold. I’m allowed to have a bar on

that more. On Sunday she had planned to take him

the front of my saddle to assist in my security

out to let loose on the cross-country field, but it was

and to steady my hand. It will be a long road

drizzly and wasn’t safe. I’m glad we hadn’t told him;

of trial and error to figure out what is the best

he would have been so disappointed!

shape, size, etc. and then to polish how to ride with it. The para community is amazingly

What is the biggest improvement you feel

supportive. I have had an outpouring of support

you’ve made this past year preparing for finals?

and ideas from current and former elite athletes

Suppleness! I use reins with loops at a fixed

to get just the right solution.

equine law

What Should Your

Bill of Sale Say?

By Carina Roselli, JD, MEM

The days of handshake deals have PASSED. Please, if

• The UCC generally requires a contract for the

you take nothing else from this column, never ever Ever

commercial sale of goods costing more than $500.

EVER buy a horse on a handshake deal. The world has

Under this law, horses are “goods” and therefore

become litigious (sue-happy) and not putting things in

qualify as needing a contract for sale.

writing is asking for trouble; specifically, a lack of contract

• There must be a contract to employ the UCC in a

will severely limit the legal methods you as the Buyer or

lawsuit because any claim or defense would focus on

the Seller can employ to protect yourself in the event of a

what is or isn’t in that contract.

lawsuit from a sale gone sour. Draft and sign a Bill of Sale!

• Under the UCC, lawsuits over horse sales are usually

A Bill of Sale is a contract between the seller of a

based on one or two of the Bill of Sale’s implied

horse and the buyer of that horse for the purchase of

warranties: Warranty of Merchantability and Warranty

said horse. As such, it is a contract, and its contents can

of Fitness for a Particular Purpose (more on that in a

mean the difference between getting the horse of your

minute).

dreams or being saddled with a “lemon” who I’m sure

• CPAs are employable without a contract because they

is quite loveable, but probably not what you bargained

focus on the fairness and transparency of the entire

for (literally). Now the key word here, ironically, is

transaction rather than the contents of the contract.

“saddled” because nothing can completely protect

• Under CPAs, courts look at whether the Seller’s sales

you from potentially buying a “lemon” horse, but a

activity (including marketing) or representations (verbal

properly drafted Bill of Sale can determine whether

and written) could mislead a Buyer.

you’re stuck with it.

• In some states, fraud, negligence, and breach of

Three areas of the law govern how a horse sale

warranty automatically violate CPAs, which opens the

conflict may be resolved. (1) Tort law governs civil suits

Seller up to paying substantial money damages.

like fraud and negligence. (2) The Uniform Commercial

• Not having a contract may violate “The Statute of

Code (UCC) governs all merchants of goods, therefore

Frauds” (which is beyond the scope of this article)

commercial horse sales fall under this area of the law.

and could void the entire agreement if made on a

(3) Your state Consumer Protection Act (CPA) protects

handshake.

Buyers from deceptive and unfair practices by Sellers, whether commercial or not.

To avoid trouble under any of these areas of the law, here are some recommendations for what your Bill

Some legal points:

of Sale should say:

• Under tort law, misrepresentation of a sale horse

110

can cause a claim for fraud and possibly negligence

Things for both the Seller and the Buyer to consider:

if someone is injured or killed because of that

• The state where you buy or sell your horse might dictate

misrepresentation (or omission).

a specific requirement for a Bill of Sale and its contents

AdobeStock/encierro

(particularly in Florida, Kentucky, and California). For

the existence of any liens or encumbrances, should

example, Florida law dictates that there must be a Bill

be stated in writing as part of this bill of sale.”

of Sale and it must contain at least these eight pieces of

These eight pieces of information are designed

information:

to protect the Buyer and the Seller from each other.

1) The name, address, and signature of the Purchaser, the

Clauses one through six are self-explanatory. Clause 7

Owner, or their duly authorized agents. In a transaction

exists to ensure the Seller is in fact the rightful owner

solely relating to a stallion season, breeding right, or

(or a lawful agent of the rightful owner) of the horse

fractional interest in a horse, the syndicate manager

you are buying; it attests that they have the right to

or horse manager may serve as an acceptable agent in

sell the horse to you free of any other interest, title, or

response to this requirement.

claim. Clause 8, on the other hand, exists to protect

2) The name of the horse, and its sire and dam if known.

the Seller from having the Buyer return next week

3) The breed and registry status of the horse,

saying their new horse is not the 5* show jumper the

if applicable and if known.

Seller said he is. Unlike in other states, nothing verbally

4) The age of the horse, if known.

said about the horse’s condition or ability (etc.) carries

5) The date of the sale.

any weight in Florida (more on verbal warranties in a

6) The purchase price of the horse.

minute). All warranties (e.g. the horse is fully sound,

7) The following statement: “As the person signing below

fertile, or can jump 3’ 6” with scope for more) must be

on behalf of the Owner, I hereby confirm that I am the

written into the Bill of Sale for the Buyer to make a case

lawful Owner of this horse or the Owner’s duly authorized

for recission (undoing) of the sale if the horse fails to

agent, and I am authorized to convey legal title to the horse

meet those expectations.

pursuant to this bill of sale.”

Florida’s Bill of Sale rules are the strictest in the country,

8) The following statement: “As the person signing

but their content requirements are a good minimum

below on behalf of the Purchaser, I understand

for any Bill of Sale, regardless of where the transaction

that any warranties or representations from the

occurs. Read on for more considerations.

Owner or the Owner’s agent that I am relying upon in acquiring this horse, including warranties

• If a horse fails to meet the Buyer’s expectations, the

or representations with respect to the horse’s age,

Buyer may want to return it. Courts vary on how long

medical condition, prior medical treatments, and

a period is “reasonable” for a Buyer to have a case for

equine law

Photo AdobeStock/piter2121

Never ever Ever EVER buy a horse on a handshake deal.

returning a horse. If the horse becomes lame a week after

deceptive as actual fraudulent misrepresentation. Omissions

purchase (and not caused by a new injury), is that reasonably

that cause injury or death may make you liable for fraud and/

close to the date of purchase to be within the speculative

or negligence.

“window” for return? To avoid an expensive guessing game,

• An “As Is” clause alone does not prevent implied warranties

I recommend you put a return window into the Bill of Sale.

from attaching to the horse’s sale. You as the Seller can still

That window could be 0 minutes, 24 hours, or 30 days or

be liable for the implied Warranties of Merchantability and

more—It’s up to you and the buyer to agree—but I would

Fitness for a Particular Purpose under the UCC. The only way

put it in writing to avoid a costly lawsuit over the issue.

to prevent such warranties from attaching is to expressly and

• Include the horse’s microchip number to make identification

specifically disclaim them in the Bill of Sale; simply adding

indisputable.

“without warranties” and/or “without representations” may

• Determine if the price includes sales tax, which is charged

not be specific enough in some courts. An example of an

in some states, and include that fact and the amount in the

express and specific disclaimer of Warranty of Fitness for a

Bill of Sale for tax filing purposes.

Particular Purpose would be: “Unless otherwise expressly

• Buyer and Seller should establish in writing exactly when

stated in this Bill of Sale, Seller makes no guarantee—verbal,

ownership changes hands—by event, not necessarily date/

written, express, or implied—as to the soundness, condition,

time—to determine who owns the horse during transport.

conformation, and/or performance of said horse for any

For example: Buyer takes ownership of said horse upon

particular purpose.”

departure from Seller’s farm, or upon arrival to United States, or upon arrival at Buyer’s barn.

Warranty of Merchantability is an implied warranty that

• Be sure to include a clause that states which state’s laws

promises the horse sold is “merchantable” (marketable) and

govern the transaction (where the Seller is located or where

reasonably conforms to the Buyer’s expectations (they’re

the Buyer is located or where the horse is located). As noted

getting what they’re paying for). If a horse becomes lame

above, different states have different laws.

shortly after being purchased (and not caused by a new injury) and then cannot be sold to a third party (becomes

112

Things to consider if you’re the Seller:

unmarketable), the implied Warranty of Merchantability

• Disclose all relevant facts about the horse, e.g. health

may allow the Buyer to rescind (undo) the sale, even if the

history, soundness, training, and temperament. Failing to

lameness issue was unknown to the Seller at the time (in

disclose material information about the horse may violate

some cases). Alternatively, if the horse fails to live up to

your state’s CPA. Courts often find failure to disclose just as

the Buyer’s reasonable expectations, the implied Warranty

of Merchantability may allow the Buyer to sue for the

• The contract should state whether the Buyer purchased

difference between what was paid for the horse and

the horse with the guidance of a trainer or broker to show

what the horse is actually worth.

that you as the Seller were not the only voice relied upon.

• The contract should state that the Buyer had the

• Under the UCC, any affirmation of fact or promise

opportunity to have an independent veterinarian perform

made by the Seller to the Buyer relating to the horse

a pre-purchase exam of the horse, and that if they did not

being sold becomes a part of the basis of the bargain and

exercise that right, they waived it.

creates an express warranty that the horse shall conform

• If you agree to maintain ownership of the horse until

to the affirmation or promise made. Put simply, this

its arrival at the Buyer’s barn, the horse will be your loss

means that words you say can become integrated into

if something terrible happens enroute. Make sure to

the bargain and act as a promise that the horse sold will

maintain the horse’s existing insurance or insure it prior

conform to the statements you made, even if not put in

to transport.

Photo AdobeStock/PheelingsMedia

writing (except in Florida). This can get Sellers into hot water under the UCC’s Warranty of Fitness for a Particular

Things to consider if you’re the Buyer:

Purpose. And, if the Buyer relied on what you said as part

• Assume NOTHING.

of their reasoning for purchase, and what you said turned

• If you are buying a horse for a particular purpose (e.g.

out to be false, you may also be liable for fraud.

a brood mare), ensure that purpose and the fact that the

For example, if you say, “This horse is bombproof”

horse is fit for that particular purpose is written as an

(which I highly recommend you never say), that statement

express warranty in the Bill of Sale. For example: “Said

becomes a promise you’ve made to the Buyer. If the

horse is known to be fertile and is fit for the purpose of

purchased horse is in fact known to rear at the sight of its

breeding.”

own shadow, the Buyer likely has grounds to sue the Seller

• If a trainer or broker helped you find the horse, find

for fraudulent misrepresentation. If, prior to purchase, the

out if they are also representing the Seller. If so, this is

Buyer explained to the Seller that the “bombproof” horse

called “dual agency” and requires your written consent

was intended for his 7-year-old daughter, the Buyer may

in some states. Decide if you are comfortable with the

also have grounds to sue under the UCC’s Warranty of

dual agency and put it in writing along with how fees

Fitness for a Particular Purpose because a horse prone to

and commissions, if any, will work from both sides of the

rearing is obviously unsuitable for a 7-year-old child. And,

bargain.

if that 7-year-old child was hurt or killed by said rearing

• Have an independent vet who is unfamiliar with the

horse, the Buyer may have a case for negligence.

horse and unconnected with the Seller perform a

equine law

Photo AdobeStock/Flamingo Images

Nothing can completely protect you from potentially buying a “lemon” horse, but a properly drafted Bill of Sale can determine whether you’re stuck with it.

prepurchase exam. Some courts have stated that this

where a generic Bill of Sale may not meet the legal

exam is customary practice in the equine industry; not

requirements). But second, it’s probably clear by now

performing a prepurchase exam may be interpreted

that I prefer a detailed Bill of Sale. I believe that it’s best

as waiving your right to sue for any physical/medical

to try to prepare for every eventuality that might arise in

issues later discovered.

and around a horse sale and contract for how it will be

• Request that the Bill of Sale attest the horse has not

handled. That way, both sides of the transaction know

been administered any medication or treated by any

exactly what to expect from each other if the worst-case

veterinarian within the last 7 days. Alternatively, if the

scenario becomes a reality.

Buyer accepts that the horse has been medicated or

In terms of loopholes, a generic Bill of Sale may fail to

treated in the last 7 days, that information should be

expressly and specifically disclaim implied warranties; it

disclosed in the Bill of Sale.

may fail to state who owns the horse during transport or

• If the horse is syndicated, ensure all owners (or

whether a pre-purchase exam is waived if not performed,

members of the LLC) sign the bill of sale.

etc. In my opinion, a generic Bill of Sale may leave gaping

• If you agree to take ownership of the horse prior to

holes for a legal action where the law greatly favors the

its arrival at your barn, the horse will be your loss if

Buyer. With a detailed Bill of Sale, Sellers can better

something terrible happens enroute. Make sure to insure

protect and prepare themselves by contracting away

the horse prior to transport.

potential problems rather than leaving out details for a

• When considering which state’s laws should govern

court to fill in as they see fit and Buyers can rest easier

the transaction (where the Seller is located or where the

knowing they are entering into a transparent transaction.

Buyer is located or where the horse is located), look up

Conflicts over horse sales are unfortunately common.

each state’s CPAs to determine which are the most Buyer

The industry has a long history of fraud and deceit—

friendly and lobby the Seller for that state to govern the

it’s where the derogatory term “horse trader” came

transaction.

from—but even reputable Sellers can have problematic sales because horses are an inherently risky commodity.

Conclusion Obviously, for my clients, a Bill of Sale is mandatory,

But, a lot of that risk can be mitigated by a proper and comprehensive Bill of Sale. Not surprisingly, whether

but I was recently asked if it’s better to have a detailed Bill

you are the Buyer or the Seller, I recommend you

of Sale or one that is more generic that you can probably

consult an equine lawyer to draft or review your Bill

just download online? Which one has more loopholes?

of Sale to make sure that it sets you up for the most

First, even a generic Bill of Sale you find Googling is

positive outcome and protects you in the event the sale

better than no Bill of Sale at all (unless you’re in Florida

somehow goes sour.

BRINGING YOUR BRAND BEYOND THE IN-GATE

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eventing

A CONVERSATION WITH

WOODS BAUGHMAN Woods Baughman is one of the USEF’s 2020 Eventing 25 Emerging Athletes. As assistant trainer to international 5* event rider, Sharon White, and a 4* eventer in his own right, Woods is up and coming at high speeds. In 2019 he won the CCI3*-L and the Dutta Corp./USEF CCI3*-L Eventing National Championship at the Dutta Corp. Fair Hill International with his horse C’est La Vie 135 and the Virginia Horse Trials CCI3*-L with Sharon’s horse, Masterel.

Woods Baughman is young, talented, but above all

Your higher numbers are bad, right? Like golf.

else―he’s a multi-tasker.

Right, exactly. We take your percent score and we subtract it from 100. Then it’s a penalty score instead.

Woods Baughman: Hello.

So, if we get a 70% in dressage, that’d be a 30-point

EQuine AMerica: Hi, Woods. Is this still a good

penalty score. Our dressage score is your normal

time to talk?

dressage percentage score but subtracted from 100.

At the end of the three phases, we add them all

Yeah. I’m just heading out to set up a course, so I

together and whoever has the lowest score wins. That

can talk. Oh, okay… You can do this at the same

way, each time we have something go wrong, like if

time? Oh, for sure.

you have a rail down in the jumping phase, that’s four penalties added to that score.

I have walked a couple courses. I walked Fair

116

Hill last year. I am majorly impressed by what

So, you had a rough start to the sport? Yeah. The

you guys throw yourselves over at high speeds.

only thing I was too concerned about when I was

Slightly crazy. Yeah. But you’ve been doing it

that young was how fast I could go around the cross

from a young age. How old were you when you

country; that part went very well. When you’re a

started eventing? I started riding when I was six and

kid, it’s just all about speed and the rush. Exactly,

I just happened to be in an eventing barn. I’d say, I

it’s all about having fun. You don’t really know what

was probably about eight when I did my first event.

the sport means. You just know for some reason they

The only thing I vaguely remember is that it went

didn’t make you the winner. At some point along

horribly. Why? What happened? I just remember I

the way, I figured out that winning was the thing we

finished on 108 points or something like that, which

wanted to work for, and I’ve been working for that

for us, is very, very bad.

ever since.

Photo credit Steven Long

Woods Baughman and C’est La Vie 135 at the Dutta Corp. Fair Hill International 2019 117

Photo Samantha Clark courtesy of Woods Baughman

eventing

Woods Baughman and C’est La Vie 135 at Great Meadow International 2020

I know you had a damn good 2019 [winning

He’s a machine at cross country and he comes out

the CCI3*-L and The Dutta Corp./USEF CCI3*-L

and he’s very careful in showjumping. It’s a really

Eventing National Championship at The Dutta

special thing to have.

Corp. Fair Hill International with C’est La Vie 135, and then winning the Virginia Horse Trials

He gives me a lot of confidence going into the

CCI3*-L with Masterel two weeks later]. But no

weekend. I can make a bit of a mistake and he’ll

one’s had a very good 2020. How has it gone for

be there to help me out if I do. I’m young enough

you? We’re hoping to finish it out a little differently.

that it’s expected I’m not going to be perfect,

It was not a good start to the year. But finally, we’re

but he’s very forgiving and lets me make those

getting things going. Where are you guys headed?

mistakes without having to pay too much of a

We’re headed to Tryon in November to do the

price. All you can really ask for at the end of the

CCI4*-L. It’s the only one running in the U.S. this

day is a horse that’s going to help you out.

year, so we’re very thankful that there’s at least one running. It’ll be our first four long there. Is this with

And what about your new horse, Pako [Hopak

C’est La Vie? Yeah, with C’est La Vie. I’m very excited

de Greenbay Z, Zangersheide, Herald X Cado

to be going.

de Greenbay X Cassini I]? He’s seven. He just did his first CCI2*-L last week. He was fantastic

118

Can you tell me a little bit about C’est La Vie [C’est

there. I was a little worried if he was going to be

La Vie 135, Contendro I X Anette X Aarking]?

fit enough, but we had no trouble finishing on our

He’s a pain. He has to be the center of attention

dressage score. He’s just a big, loose, young horse.

at all times or he’ll let you know his opinion on

He’s going to take a bit of time to get going, but

not being the center of attention. But he really

he’s a fantastic jumper and a beautiful mover, and

knows and enjoys his job, so when it counts he

he’s got a brilliant head on him. He never stops

comes through and he just performs. Does he

trying. Even though he’s pretty green and he has

love all three phases or is he partial to one?

no idea what’s going on 90% of the time, he just

He’s really special in the fact that he doesn’t really

keeps saying yes. I have to be a little more careful

have a weak spot. For sure, he has his own little

on him, but I give him a fair chance to do everything

weaknesses here and there, but he’s quite good in

because he doesn’t necessarily know what to do.

all three phases. He’s very good in the first phase,

But whether he’s done it before or not, he always

so we can lay down a good score in the dressage.

gives it his best try.

Where did you find him? Dirk [Schrade] helped me find

Vie? C’est La Vie is also quite big. He’s about 17.2hh. For

him. He was in Belgium. He’s a registered Zangersheide

eventing, they’re pretty big. My last event horse was 15.3hh

and he’s out of a Cassini mare, so he’s very well bred for

in contrast, so it’s a bit of a different feeling.

jumping. Did you get him as a seven-year-old or did you get him earlier and let him stay over there for

Luckily, they’re both very smart horses. C’est La Vie is

a bit? No, I just got him at the very end of April. I was

very, very quick thinking, and then Pako’s just a very

lucky. I went over in February, right before everything closed

clever horse. As big as he is, when he does get in trouble,

down, and I was able to try quite a few horses and make it

he can actually pop in a half stride pretty quick, so that’s

home without getting stuck, and then from there it was just

a good feeling to know that when we get into trouble, he

getting Pako the vetting and the flights and all that. I was

does have the ability to get us out. I had a pretty bad miss

worried I couldn’t get him out of Europe before it locked

when I tried him. He moved quite quick there to make up

down. It was a race. I was so worried he was going to get

for it and I was like, “Wow! For a horse that big, that was

stuck in Europe, but luckily, we got him home.

pretty quick.” That was one of the things that stuck in my mind trying to decide whether to buy him.

We had some time to do nothing, so he sat at home for a while, which was nice because then I had time to get to

And how old is C’est La Vie? He is 12 years old this

know him before he went out to his first show. We realized

year. I got him at the very tail end of his 10-year-old year.

how green he was, which was a bit of a surprise because

I bought him in November. What’s the average career

he looks like quite a big, strong horse, but realistically he

length of an event horse? It depends a little bit on the

doesn’t really know how to use any of it. Despite how he

horse and a little bit on their care. If you’re lucky, they

looks, he’s quite weak. He just needs a little time. How

can compete at 16 to 18 years old at a five-star level.

big is he? He’s just shy of 17.3hh. How big is C’est La

There are a few special horses that compete at 20, 21

Woods Baughman and C’est La Vie 135 at the Dutta Corp. Fair Hill International 2019

Photo credit Steven Long

119

hunter Photo credit Samantha Clark courtesy of Woods Baughman

Woods Baughman and C’est La Vie 135 at Great Meadow International 2020

120

eventing

business as usual.WOODS BAUGHMAN

“

“

I try to stay pretty positive, most of the time anyway. We didn’t really ever back down from training. We just kept things going

years. But once they hit 16, they start going downhill

that kind of experience is just always super, super useful.

a bit, so then it’s just how well you can maintain and

So, ideally it amounts to 12 visits a year to help you

keep them going before it’s time to back off.

develop? Yeah, it’s extra training sessions, and you can never have enough lessons.

It really depends a lot on the horse, like the type and the mentality, because some horses just don’t have

Were you able to get in a lesson before COVID? No,

quit in them, and those are the ones that are really

but they were very, very good about giving us ways to

good for our sport, so they end up refusing to retire. I

submit videos to Leslie so that even though we couldn’t

know a few that, they can’t quite run at the upper level

see him in person, if we wanted we could send him

anymore, but they did their whole life, so now they’re

videos and he would give us the best online help he

in their 20s and still packing kids around Preliminary

could. How did that work out? In this situation, that’s

courses, which is still big enough, just because you

the best you can do. I was able to get a few videos to him

can’t make them stop.

and he gave me some helpful pointers over email, and that was that until he was finally able to start coming up.

About your being selected for the USEF Eventing

When was that? After competitions opened in June.

25, how does the selection process work, how

Now he can come in person? Yeah. He’s probably

did you get selected, when? Can you walk me

been up four or five times now, I think. That’s fantastic,

through it? Yeah, so it starts out pretty basic. There’s

considering what’s going on. Yeah, they’ve [USEF]

an application at the end of the year. They announce

really, really made a big effort for getting us the help,

when it’s open. You fill out the application and it just

which has been super. I’ve been really thankful for that.

asks personal questions about you, your competition experience, previous results, future goals, that kind of

Are you committed to C’est La Vie as a team horse

thing. Then there’s a review process where they look

or can you be trained by Leslie on any horse? It’s

through all the applications and select the people who

whatever horse I want. Right now, I only have the two

they’ll invite to do an in-person assessment. They had

horses. I ride the two of them with Leslie. USEF will send out

two assessments in Florida, then one or two in Aiken,

an email that he’s coming and then we just let them know

and then one on the West Coast. You just pick whichever

how many horses we want to ride. It’s first and foremost,

one you want to go to and you go and ride in front of

your team horse gets the slot and then if Leslie has extra

the selectors and speak to them about your plans and

time, then you can ride one of your other ones. Right now,

goals looking forward. From there, they select from that

C’est La Vie is your primary? Yeah, C’est La Vie is older

group who will be on the team for the year. I believe I did

and more experienced, so he’s the primary horse.

the application in November and then the assessment was in January, and then they announced the list about

In preparation for the CCI4*-L at Tryon, can you

a month later.

walk me through what your process was to get yourself back in order after having so much

What does it mean now that you are part of

downtime? I try to stay pretty positive, most of the

Eventing 25? What actually happens? We have

time anyway. We didn’t really ever back down from

access to Leslie Law [USEF Eventing Development and

training. We just kept things going business as usual

Emerging Coach]. He comes for training sessions about

and hoped that things would come back quickly and

once a month or so, and it just gives you the extra

our horses would be ready to compete, if not coming

experience of working with a world-class instructor and

back in better form than normal. Then when they

rider. Leslie’s amazing, so to get in front of him and get

did open competition finally, both of my horses were

121

eventing

click to watch

“

“

You can never have enough lessons. WOODS BAUGHMAN

more than ready to step up and get out, which made

I just think that competing the way we are now,

the transition pretty easy.

with no spectators and wearing masks and all of the rules—you guys really have to love to

What has it been like for you competing during

compete to want to go through it. Doesn’t it take

COVID-19? It was a little weird going out because we

something away from the competition to lose

work on a farm outside, so it’s the same people. We

the spectators and lose the camaraderie you have

don’t really wear masks or social distance because we

with the other competitors? It just seems like it

all live together on the same farm, so there’s no reason

makes for a crappy version of competition. It only

to. Then when we get to the shows, we have to adapt

makes things quieter. I can tell you that, but honestly,

because we only really wear masks when we go to the

when I’m riding that’s the last thing I’m thinking

grocery store once a week—that’s the only time we

about because I’m normally just focused on trying to

leave the farm.

remember my dressage test. Fair enough. But yeah,

So, you show up to the event and first thing, someone

Park last week and I’ve never seen it so quiet. It was

takes your temperature, and you have to pop on your

creepy how like a ghost town it was.

it does make things a bit awkward. I was at the Horse

mask and wear your bracelet. You sign the forms, so there’s a bit of a different feel when you get started,

You grew up right around there, right? I think

but it’s all becoming a bit normal now. What’s the

I heard you grew up five minutes from the

bracelet? We have to sign health forms saying we

Kentucky Horse Park. Yeah. I’m from Lexington, so

haven’t been around anyone sick. It’s just a health

it’s 15 minutes from the park or something like that.

waiver, and then once we sign it, we have to wear

You were part of the Keeneland Pony Club? That

a bracelet. They change the color of the bracelet

sounds like it would be a famous pony club. Yeah,

each day to make sure that everyone has had their

Keeneland. I don’t know if it’s famous or not, but…

temperature checked when they come onto the

Just by name. I’ve always wanted to go there to

property and that everyone has signed the health

see a Thoroughbred auction.

waiver. Wow. That’s a system I hadn’t heard they

122

were doing. That’s smart. Yeah. Shows have been

In the past, you had off-track Thoroughbreds,

taking it fairly seriously.

right? Yeah. I had the Quarter Pony and then after that,

my next two horses were both off-the-track Thoroughbreds.

Thoroughbred, and I can see the benefit on the final day.

Did you train them right from the track? My first had

You’re finishing with a horse just as fresh as it started, so

been off the track for a couple of months, and then the

when you’re looking towards showjumping, you don’t have

second one was directly off the track. He’d had some time

to worry about, “Is my horse going to have enough in the

in a field, but I restarted him with my trainer at the time.

tank?” You’re worried that it might still have too much in

He was supposed to be a sale horse for her and I ended up

the tank, and so that’s a nice feeling to have because there’s

buying him for myself.

nothing worse than holding your breath and squeezing out that last bit of energy to pull up between rounds.

I know Thoroughbreds are very popular in eventing.

Do you think they’re particularly built for the sport?

Why did you transition to Warmbloods? I’m quite bad

They have their advantages, but they definitely have their

at dressage. I’ve heard that from a lot of eventers.

disadvantages as well. They’re not exactly meant to sit

My trainer, Sharon White, she was in Germany looking

and push, so the dressage is quite difficult. But once you

for horses and happened upon a more experienced horse

get past that first phase, there’s nothing that runs like a

[Maverick McNamara, British Warmblood, Medoc X Skippy]

Woods Baughman and C’est La Vie 135 at the Dutta Corp. Fair Hill International 2019

Photo credit Steven Long

123

Photo credit Steven Long

hunter

Woods Baughman and C’est La Vie 135 at the Dutta Corp.

Fair Hill International 2019 that was very good on the flat and very reliable. It was

which he has turned out to be, and so I just ended up

the sort of thing where you can get on him and if it goes

with him. We quite trust Dirk, so when I was looking for

wrong, it’s because you’re doing something wrong,

a second one, I went back to him. Then he found Pako.

versus on my little Thoroughbred, you can do everything

It wasn’t really an intentional transition to Warmbloods.

right and it still might not be so good. He really gave me

I still very much respect Thoroughbreds. I think that

a chance to learn the aides, learn the feel, learn how it

they’re very, very good horses, but I’ve just ended up with

should be, so that I could actually learn how to ride a

Warmbloods at the moment.

test and not get all stressed out and worried that it was going to go poorly from the beginning. I could do quite

You’re 24 years old, right? Does that mean this

poorly, and I’d still get a decent enough score, so I really

is your last year in the Eventing 25? No, because I

learned to relax and just ride the test.

don’t turn 25 until next year. It’s the year you turn 25, so I have one more year that I can apply and hopefully

124

I really, really learned a lot from that horse, and he’s the

be re-accepted into the program. Was this your first

one I ended up taking to Germany in 2018 to train with

year being accepted into the program? In the under

Dirk. We retired him while I was there, so I found C’est

25s, yes. When I was 18, I was on the under 18 list. Now

La Vie before I came home, and over there, you’re not

that’s been absorbed into the same program. So forever

really going to find a Thoroughbred. C’est La Vie was

ago, when I was 18, I was on that list. Yeah, so I have one

in the barn and Dirk really pushed for me to take him.

more year. Hopefully, it’ll be a more normal year for

He thought he would be a really good match for me,

you next year. Yeah, hopefully. I try to stay positive.

Lauren Hester on Happy Feet B, 2012 KWPN mare (Zacherov x Canturano I), winner of $5000 Ruby Speed 1.35 m, Desert Circuit VI, Desert International Horse Park, March 2020.

hunter / jumper All Photos By Charlene Strickland

Stepping Up to Meter-20

By Charlene Strickland

A course set at 1 meter (3ft 3in) is a milestone for a young or green jumper, but it’s in moving up to 1.20m that the horse shows his talent. spreads,

daughter. Audra continued, “She’s not big but

combinations, and distances—poses greater

Adding

8

inches—with

she has a huge heart. She’s my very good friend.

questions for the horse and rider to answer.

She is one of the smartest horses I’ve ever had.

How confident is the horse? Does he show the

She is fast and careful.”

scope to clear height and width? Is he rideable

Audra also noted that Flurry inherited

in turns and adjustable at each fence, both in

swiftness from Thoroughbred ancestors. “I rode

the approach and after landing? If he’s clear,

her mother, who has a lot of Thoroughbred on

is he poised and fast in a jump-off? We talked

her side,” she said. “That gives her speed.”

with jumper riders about young horses to see

Dr. Fleck said, “I’ve never seen her have a

how they evaluate contenders at 1.20m courses.

time fault. We knew she was special early on.

At 2 1/2 and 3 years, she was jumping over

Bred to Excel Bloodlines

little things.” He added, “I think this is one of ability.

Flexible’s best babies. Rich [Fellers] thinks that.

Rainland Flurry (Flexible x Calvaro Z) is a 2013

can

predict

jumping

We call her the mini Brute. Flexible is not real

mare, bred by Robert Fleck, DVM of Woodinville,

big. You’re surprised that he jumped meter-60.”

Washington. With Rich Fellers, Flexible won the

Flurry stands only 15.3hh.

2012 FEI World Cup Finals and placed 8th at

In 2020, Audra rode Flurry to be the

the 2012 Olympic Games. Also an exceptional

Circuit Champion of the 7-year-old young

jumper, Calvaro Z ranked 17th on the 2019

jumper division in the Desert Circuit at Desert

list of Show Jumping Sires (World Breeding

International Horse Park in Thermal, California.

Federation for Sport Horses).

In

2019,

Flurry

was

champion

Derek of

Braun,

of

Split

Rock

Farm

in

the

Lexington, Kentucky, talked about Colour Your

Thunderbird Show Park Series—Crooks Show

Day (Contendro I x Landadel), who’s now 11.

Jumping 6-Year-Olds. At those shows in Langley,

He showed the Holsteiner in USEF six-year-

B.C., she earned the nickname Flurrious. “Fast

old classes and developed the horse’s talent

and flurrious. She has a little fan club already,”

through the levels. Derek explained how a horse

said her rider, Audra Fleck-Snijders, Dr. Fleck’s

can show what jumper division suits him: “You 127

p h oto s p r e a d hunter / jumper

All photos by Carina Roselli

Derek Braun on Colour Your Day, 2009 Holsteiner (Contendro I x Landadel), $30,000 Smartpak Grand Prix, HITS Coachella Desert Circuit, HITS Desert Horse Park, Thermal, California, March 2019. feel what those instincts are in the horse that can

We don’t start pushing them until the middle of

move to the next level.” The rider needs to have the

their six-year-old year. Then, we start asking them

knowledge to nurture a prospect, and then see what

for a little bit more. We keep on going with that

level matches the horse’s talents.

process, which has seemed to work for us.” Another

Is the horse careful? Does he have the scope and

technique of Kirsten’s is to use each competitive

the attitude to move beyond the meter courses? “I

round as a training assignment. “Every time we’re

try to search for real quality as a young horse and

teaching them something. Every class we do, we

then take the time to produce them up the ranks,”

work on a specific thing, whether it’s rideability,

said Derek, who explained that the horse’s attitude

turns, or an element in the course. Every round has

affects how he jumps, whether at a lower level or

a specific purpose.”

the Grand Prix. Many horses can jump the same way

Lauren Hester of Hester Equestrian in Lexington,

they do at meter-20 as they do at meter-60, but it’s

Kentucky also trains and competes young horses.

the horse’s desire that makes him a candidate to

Lauren has earned over $1M in prize money in her

progress, ultimately to the Grand Prix. “Riders can

career as well.

really sense what the horse is telling them.”

Happy Feet B (Zacherov x Canturano I). She bought

Her newest up-and-coming star is

the 2012 mare at the foal auction organized by Stal Developing Talent Kirsten Coe of Johnston, South Carolina has represented the US internationally and competed

Hendrix in Limburg, the Netherlands. She admits picking the gray foal for her name. “It was my first time buying a foal. It worked out.”

in the FEI World Cup Jumping Final, earning her

Lauren won with the KWPN mare in five-, six-

over $1M in prize money so far. Kirsten trains and

and seven-year-old classes. “Happy was very special

shows young horses bred by her family’s Equine

from the beginning. They broke her over there [in

Trading Company, Inc. She explained how she lets a

the Netherlands] and told me about how special she

young horse progress at his own speed, aiming for

was. She is my first horse that I bought as a foal or

the horse to feel comfortable on course. “I might

even brought along, so I was very excited. She was

push them up one division and go back down, and

special when she was a four-year-old and she was

then go up again and go back down until I feel like

third in the five-year-old finals in Kentucky. She had

they’re comfortable jumping all the heights and the

the fastest time in the jump-off, but I made a mistake

different elements—the liverpools, doubles, triples.”

and caused her to have the last jump down.”

Kirsten does not ask too much of a youngster.

A good win in 2020 was the FEI Ruby Speed

“I let them tell me what they’re ready for. The five-

1.35m class at the Desert Circuit. “She has her ups

year-olds do pretty basic work… very small jumps.

and downs,” said Lauren. “Last year she moved up

to the meter-40 Grands Prix. She was second in

Farm in Santa Fe, New Mexico found that the mare

her first Grand Prix and then she won her second

showed talent over cross rails. “She was slow to

Grand Prix! We did two more Grand Prix classes

mature, and then all of a sudden she started to

at the World Equestrian Center where she was

show some athleticism with her jumping. She was

also first and second. I gave her a break, and

jumping high because she was so careful. That’s

now we’re bringing her back up again. I gave her

one of the challenges in bringing her along,”

a break because she’s young.”

explained Stephanie. “She was at the tops of the standards when I did the five-year-old classes.”

Analyzing Performance

As jumps became higher, Midnight Hour had

The horse tells the rider about his comfort

to adjust her style. “Up to meter-30 has been

and confidence, and the rider can help the horse

ground-breaking for her. It’s starting to click

improve on course. Riding can affect the horse’s

for her. Her go-to was to jump higher. Now she

style, adjustability, and speed. An example is

is better with her knees. She has a good hind

another mare, Midnight Hour, foaled in 2013

end. She’s starting to get much more clever

from KWPN parents. Her sire, Wamberto, was

about jumping.” Stephanie rides with Everardo

champion at the 2006 KWPN Stallion Show

Hegewich in California, “Everardo says not to

and also won the 2007 U.S. 100-day Stallion

move up to the next level until the horse is

Performance Test.

perfect at one level.”

Midnight

Hour

was

originally

aimed

at

Kirsten Coe aims to have a horse learn the

dressage. Trainer Stephanie Gershon of Skybound

size and the technical aspects of a course. An

Audra Fleck-Snijders on Rainland Flurry, 2013 mare (Flexible x Calvaro Z), 1.20 m, National Sunshine Series Week II, HITS Desert Horse Park, Thermal, California, November 2019.

Stephanie Gershon on Midnight Hour, 2013 mare, 1.20 m, National Sunshine Series Week II, HITS Desert Horse Park, Thermal, California, Nov. 2019.

athletic jumper may need to focus on increasing

let me do any flat work with her.” When Happy

rideability, such as responding on turns. She said,

was seven, Lauren hired California trainer Allen

“Whenever I feel they are struggling with an issue,

Clarke to alter Happy’s outlook. “He got her

whether it’s something on the course or rideability or

going in the ring and almost riding like a normal

a related distance, whenever they get too careful—

horse. She is a sweetheart in the barn, but as

maybe you have to assess what’s going on in the

soon as you try to do flat work she still gives you

round and with the horse. That’s when you would

a run for your money. I think that’s what makes

drop back down and make them comfortable.”

her such a good horse is because she fights for

A horse can become aggressive on course,

what she wants.”

running at the jumps. For such a horse, Kirsten said, “They have to learn patience. Every horse is an

130

USEF Rules

individual, and they need to learn their individual

The USEF Rulebook, JP124, describes the course

weaknesses and strengths.” She recommends

for the 1.20m division. The minimum speed is 350

a positive attitude: “In the end, for a horse,

meters per minute (roughly 15 miles per hour),

confidence is king. If you can always nurture that

over a course of at least 10 jumping efforts, of

feeling for them, then they can excel.”

which three of the first eight must be spreads

Lauren Hester’s Happy Feet B is an example

(oxers). Rule JP116 has the standards for young

of such learning. Lauren said that the Dutch

horse competitions, at five, six, and seven years

horsemen cautioned her. “They did warn me

old. These classes invite youngsters to gain

that even though she was very talented, she was

confidence and excel. Fence heights are 1 meter

very difficult. I found that out early on when

to 1.15m (five-year-olds), 1.20m to 1.25m (six-

she wouldn’t accept injections or let us even cut

year-olds) and 1.30m to 1.35m (seven-year-

her mane with scissors. Her attitude continued

olds). Heights can increase after July 1 of the

to worsen, and she wouldn’t go in the ring or

show season.

Thank You

to the exhibitors and sponsors who supported the show, to the Roberts family and the World Equestrian Center staff, and finally, to the all-star Capital Challenge team who showed what it means to “Rise to the Challenge.�

October 1-10, 2021

IS

CIP

LIN

E

OSPHOS® (clodronate injection)

F O R E V E RY E

N I QU

D E

The intramuscular bisphosphonate injection for control of clinical signs associated with Navicular Syndrome in horses 4 years of age and older

Learn more online

www.dechra-us.com www.osphos.com

As with all drugs, side effects may occur. In field studies and post-approval experience the most common side effects reported were signs of discomfort, nervousness, and colic. Other signs reported were: renal insufficiency/failure, anorexia, lethargy, hypercalcemia, behavioral disorders, hyperkalemia, hyperactivity, recumbency, hyperthermia, injection site reactions, muscle tremor, urticaria, hyperglycemia, and fracture. In some cases, death has been reported as an outcome of these adverse events.

The safe use of OSPHOS has not been evaluated in horses less than 4 years of age or breeding horses. OSPHOS should not be used in pregnant or lactating mares, or mares intended for breeding. NSAIDs should not be used concurrently with OSPHOS. Concurrent use of NSAIDs with OSPHOS may increase the risk of renal toxicity and acute renal failure. Use of OSPHOS in patients with conditions affecting renal function or mineral or electrolyte homeostasis is not recommended.

Refer to the prescribing information for complete details or visit www.dechra-us.com.

CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of licensed veterinarian. * Freedom of Information Summary, Original New Animal Drug Application, approved by FDA under NADA # 141-427, for OSPHOS. April 28, 2014.

Dechra Veterinary Products US and the Dechra D logo are registered trademarks of Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC. © 2020 Dechra Ltd.

Bisphosphonate.

For use in horses only.

Brief Summary (For Full Prescribing Information, see package insert) CAUTION: Federal (USA) law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

DESCRIPTION: Clodronate disodium is a non-amino, chloro-containing bisphosphonate. Chemically, clodronate disodium is (dichloromethylene) diphosphonic acid disodium salt and is manufactured from the tetrahydrate form.

INDICATION: For the control of clinical signs associated with navicular syndrome in horses.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Horses with hypersensitivity to clodronate disodium should not receive OSPHOS. Do not use in horses with impaired renal function or with a history of renal disease.

WARNINGS: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.

HUMAN WARNINGS: Not for human use. Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children. Consult a physician in case of accidental human exposure.

PRECAUTIONS: OSPHOS has been associated with renal toxicity.

Concurrent administration of other potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be approached with caution and renal function should be monitored.

Use of bisphosphonates in patients with conditions or diseases affecting renal function is not recommended. Horses should be well-hydrated prior to and after the administration of OSPHOS due to the potential for adverse renal events. Water intake and urine output should be monitored for 3-5 days post-treatment and any changes from baseline should elicit further evaluation. As a class, bisphosphonates may be associated with gastrointestinal and renal toxicity. Sensitivity to drug associated adverse reactions varies with the individual patient.

Renal and gastrointestinal adverse reactions may be associated with plasma concentrations of the drug. Bisphosphonates are excreted by the kidney; therefore, conditions causing renal impairment may increase plasma bisphosphonate concentrations resulting in an increased risk for adverse reactions. Concurrent administration of other potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be approached with caution and renal function should be monitored. Use of bisphosphonates in patients with conditions or diseases affecting renal function is not recommended. Administration of bisphosphonates has been associated with abdominal pain (colic), discomfort, and agitation in horses. Clinical signs usually occur shortly after drug administration and may be associated with alterations in intestinal motility. In horses treated with OSPHOS these clinical signs usually began within 2 hours of treatment. Horses should be monitored for at least 2 hours following administration of OSPHOS. Bisphosphonates affect plasma concentrations of some minerals and electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium and potassium, immediately post-treatment, with effects lasting up to several hours. Caution should be used when administering bisphosphonates to horses with conditions affecting mineral or electrolyte homeostasis (e.g. hyperkalemic periodic paralysis, hypocalcemia, etc.). The safe use of OSPHOS has not been evaluated in horses less than 4 years of age. The effect of bisphosphonates on the skeleton of growing horses has not been studied; however, bisphosphonates inhibit osteoclast activity which impacts bone turnover and may affect bone growth.

Bisphosphonates should not be used in pregnant or lactating mares, or mares intended for breeding. The safe use of OSPHOS has not been evaluated in breeding horses or pregnant or lactating mares. Bisphosphonates are incorporated into the bone matrix, from where they are gradually released over periods of months to years. The extent of bisphosphonate incorporation into adult bone, and hence, the amount available for release back into the systemic circulation, is directly related to the total dose and duration of bisphosphonate use. Bisphosphonates have been shown to cause fetal developmental abnormalities in laboratory animals. The uptake of bisphosphonates into fetal bone may be greater than into maternal bone creating a possible risk for skeletal or other abnormalities in the fetus. Many drugs, including bisphosphonates, may be excreted in milk and may be absorbed by nursing animals.

Increased bone fragility has been observed in animals treated with bisphosphonates at high doses or for long periods of time. Bisphosphonates inhibit bone resorption and decrease bone turnover which may lead to an inability to repair micro damage within the bone. In humans, atypical femur fractures have been reported in patients on long term bisphosphonate therapy; however, a causal relationship has not been established.

ADVERSE REACTIONS: The most common adverse reactions reported in the field study were clinical signs of discomfort or nervousness, colic and/or pawing. Other signs reported were lip licking, yawning, head shaking, injection site swelling, and hives/pruritus.

POST-APPROVAL EXPERIENCE (December 2018): The following adverse events are based on post-approval adverse drug experience reporting. Not all adverse events are reported to FDA/CVM. It is not always possible to reliably estimate the adverse event frequency or establish a causal relationship to product exposure using these data.

The following adverse events are listed in decreasing order of reporting frequency: renal failure, polyuria, polydipsia, abdominal pain, anorexia, lethargy, hypercalcemia, behavioral disorder, discomfort, hyperkalemia, hyperactivity, recumbency, hyperthermia, injection site reactions, muscle tremor, urticaria, hyperglycemia, and fracture. In some cases, death has been reported as an outcome of the adverse events listed above.

INFORMATION FOR HORSE OWNERS: Owners should be advised to: • NOT administer NSAIDs. • Ensure horses have access to adequate water before and after administration of OSPHOS. • Observe their horse for at least 2 hours post-treatment for signs of colic, agitation, and/or abnormal behavior.

• If a horse appears uncomfortable, nervous, or experiences cramping post-treatment, hand walk the horse for 15 minutes.

If signs do not resolve contact the veterinarian.

• Monitor water intake and urine output for 3-5 days posttreatment.

• Contact their veterinarian if the horse displays abnormal clinical signs such as changes in drinking and urination, appetite, and attitude.

Manufactured for: Dechra Veterinary Products 7015 College Blvd., Suite 525, Overland Park, KS 66211 866-933-2472 © 2020 Dechra Ltd. OSPHOS is a registered trademark of Dechra Ltd. All rights reserved. Approved by FDA under NADA # 141-427

F OR THE G OO D O F THE HORSE

Photo credit AdobeStock/jollier

The Whys and Hows of Feeding

the Performance Horse

By Dr. Ashley Wagner & Dr. Nettie Liburt, Ph.D.

The words “performance horse” conjure up many an image in one’s mind―from the Olympic jumper to the eventer, to the racehorse, to the barrel horse. But in fact, performance horses come in many shapes and sizes, and work at all different levels.

Of course, the high-level performance horse fits into

What one rider may consider very hard work, another

this description, but what about the school horse that gives

might consider medium. For this reason, the National

2 lessons a day, several days per week? Or the working

Research Council (2007) has attempted to quantify

ranch horse, or trail horse who guides inexperienced riders

what Light, Medium, Heavy, and Very Heavy workloads

day in and day out? These too are performance horses,

actually mean (Table 1).

even if they are not front and center in the show ring.

The objective quantification of workload helps

That said, performance horses typically require more

equine nutritionists estimate appropriate nutrient and

calories (energy) than idle or maintenance horses, and

calorie needs, and consequently to select an appropriate

in some cases, a slight increase in protein, vitamins,

feed type. Horses in light work do not typically require

and minerals. Each horse should therefore be fed as

the same kind of diet as those in heavy work, and vice

an individual, based on the amount and type of work

versa. We’ll talk more about selecting concentrate feeds

performed, overall health and desired body condition.

later.

Read on for nutritional guidance for your performance horse, no matter what level you’re at!

Start with Forage

How much work is my horse doing?

the basis for every equine diet. Horses evolved as trickle

When in doubt, always start with forage. Forage is The intensity of work a horse does is often subjective.

134

feeders, eating small amounts of forage all day long.

Workload Light

Medium

Heavy

Very Heavy

Guideline 1-3 hours/week; 40% walk, 50% trot, 10% canter (Light trails, easy hacking, basic dressage, “weekend warrior”) 3-5 hours/week; 30% walk, 55% trot, 10% canter, 5% jumping/cutting/skill work (Amateur hunter, school horse, mid-level dressage horse) 4-5 hours/week; 20% walk, 50% trot, 15% canter, 15% jumping/cutting/skill work (Jumpers, eventers, upper level dressage, working ranch horses) Varies; ranges from 1 hour/week speed work to 6-12 hours/week slow work (Racehorses, elite level eventers, and show jumpers)

Table 1. Definitions of approximate workloads for horses. National Research Council, 2007. Nutrient Requirements of Horses, 6th Ed. National Academies Press. Washington, DC. Despite how we manage them today, the equine

Feeding a small amount of hay (about one pound

digestive system still demands a steady intake of

for an average adult horse) prior to a ride may also help

forage (be it hay, pasture, chaff, or other fiber source)

manage horses with equine gastric ulcer syndrome, or

for optimum health. Quality of hay and pasture

EGUS. When a horse begins to exercise, the stomach

count too. Hay that looks very stemmy (lots of sticks

contracts and the pH decreases (becomes more

or tough stalks), has seed heads or seems rough, is

acidic), increasing the risk of acid splashing up and

probably not high in nutritional value. Softer, clean,

damaging the delicate squamous, or upper part of the

leafy hay tends to be higher in protein quality, easier

stomach, where ulcers commonly occur. Having a bit

to digest, and more palatable to the horse. Note that

of forage in the stomach helps to create a “mat” that

the only real way to know the quality of hay is to have

can tamp down the splashing, theoretically reducing

an analysis done, which is fairly easy and inexpensive.

exposure of the upper stomach to strong acid.

There are a number of laboratories across the country that can assist you with the sampling, mailing, and

Water, Electrolytes, and Hydration It also goes without saying that water is essential. A

Photo credit AdobeStock/Rabbitt

analysis of your hay.

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F OR THE G OO D O F THE HORSE

Photo credit AdobeStock/RD Fotografie

lack of water is more fatal to a horse than a lack of food.

intensity increases, the need for electrolytes that are

Water is crucial for digestion and regulation of body

lost in sweat are not met by typical diets. In addition, if

temperature. The average adult horse weighing 1,100

the forage is of poor quality, or is restricted, there is an

pounds requires roughly 10 gallons of water per day,

increased need for potassium. If you choose to provide

but a number of things impact how much water a horse

an electrolyte supplement, look for ones that contain

will drink. Hot and humid weather, increased exercise

sodium, chloride, and potassium (and even calcium) as

intensity, or when additional forage is added to the diet,

main ingredients, and be aware that some products may

are all situations that require a horse to drink more water.

contain added sugar for palatability, which may have

Did you know that an 1,100 lb. horse exercising in

health risks for certain horses.

hot and humid conditions could drink up to 30 gallons of water? The more a horse sweats, the more water is needed to replace losses. But water alone won’t hydrate a

Now that we’ve selected forage and ensured our

horse! Horse sweat is heavily concentrated with sodium,

horse is properly hydrated, it’s time to evaluate grain

chloride, and potassium, all of which are essential for

concentrate needs. If a horse can suffice on a forage-only

proper muscle function and hydration. Electrolytes

diet (and there are some performance horses out there

(sodium, chloride, potassium, and calcium, for example)

who can), a ration balancer is recommended to ensure

are essential for proper hydration and muscle function,

protein, vitamin, and mineral requirements are met, as

and the body does not store them. Thus, what is lost

these can vary in the forage. Even the best quality forage

needs to be replaced.

may be lacking in things like Vitamin E or amino acids,

How do you make sure that your horse is getting adequate

136

Concentrates, Fats, and Carbohydrates

amounts

of

electrolytes?

Forage

and

and a ration balancer can provide such nutrients without excess calories.

electrolytes go hand in hand. Earlier we talked about

If more calories are required in the diet, look for

good quality forage, things to look for, and testing to

concentrates that are higher in fat (6-12% crude fat,

be sure. Feeding a good quality forage plus a fortified

for example). A gram of fat has more than double the

feed (both at adequate amounts) can meet most of the

calories of a gram of carbohydrate, so it’s a great way to

electrolyte needs of most horses. However, as exercise

add calories without adding a lot of volume. In addition,

fat takes a long time to metabolize, so it provides a slow, steady release of energy (think endurance, long slow work, or the energy between jumps on course).

General Diet Guidelines Always start with good quality forage. Alfalfa hay tends to be higher in protein and calcium compared

Carbohydrates, however, do play a critical role

to grass hay such as timothy, orchard grass, or coastal

in the horse’s diet. The brain runs almost exclusively

bermudagrass. If you don’t have pasture, seek out good

on carbohydrates, and this energy source is essential

hay, and ask your supplier if they have an analysis. A

for that quick burst of energy (think launch over the

qualified equine nutritionist can help you interpret the

jump or gallop out of the starting gate!) Horses, like

hay analysis and balance the overall diet.

humans, store carbohydrates in the muscle and liver

For the horse that has trouble maintaining weight,

in the form of glycogen. Unlike humans, however,

look for feed concentrates with a high fat content (8-

horses can’t “carb load.” The goal of “carb-loading”

12%) that also contains high quality digestible fibers,

is to provide adequate fuel to replace the glycogen

such as beet pulp or oat hulls. Consider modifying the

that is depleted during exercise. In humans, this

training program to ease workload slightly (shorter

works! But humans are physiologically a bit different

sessions or one less day per week) to help the horse

than horses in this way.

hold onto calories and gain weight. Similar suggestions glycogen

go for the nervous or excitable horse, if focus and

restoration in the muscle of humans following

calm is what you’re going for, but also consider a

intense exercise will occur in 24 hours, but for

lower carbohydrate concentrate (20% or less of non-

horses, glycogen repletion takes 48-72 hours.

structural carbohydrates (NSC)). Want more spunk?

Why is that? Horses absorb carbohydrates from

A textured feed with a slightly higher carbohydrate

the gastrointestinal tract at a slower rate, have a

content (25-30%) may help, assuming that there are

slower rate of glucose uptake by the muscle cells,

no metabolic concerns or history of laminitis.

Without

carb-loading,

normal

Remember every horse is an individual and should

a rapid increase in the activity of one of the main

be fed as such. Just as a group of people don’t all have

enzymes in the pathway to make more glycogen.

the same dietary requirements, neither do a group of

“Carb-loading” doesn’t work in horses, and a single

horses. If you are struggling with your horse’s diet, be

large meal heavy in carbohydrates that a horse isn’t

sure to consult a veterinarian or an equine nutritionist.

accustomed to can be a health risk.

In the meantime, enjoy the ride!

Photo credit AdobeStock/Tosca M White

and the act of depleting glycogen doesn’t signal

137

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RI D ER WE L L NESS

Meet Joanna Frantz, PT, MSPT, DPT

How to Refine Your Ride Doctor of Physical Therapy Human Sport Science and Medicine Practitioner for USEF

As riders, over the years, we’ve all tried different

feel any slight changes in your seat. Many riders recognize

exercises for strengthening. There are so many, so how

that they have a “weaker” leg, and when adding that

do you choose? You can spend time searching the

aide, they feel that the horse does not respond. You

internet and then you have to decide what equipment,

may be unaware that your aide is late or inaccurate,

bands, weights, straps, etc. you need. There are so many

but inevitably your horse responds accordingly. I’ve seen

choices, it can be daunting to figure out where to start

experienced riders exhibit frustration because they do not

and what exercises are best for you. Let me take away

understand why their horse went off course. This happens

your confusion by showing you where to start and how

in all disciplines. In dressage, for example, a half pass left

to keep it simple.

isn’t as smooth or as straight as a half pass right. In show

Getting balanced on the horse starts with your feet on the ground specifically activating muscles to improve

than it does turning right.

your strength in the saddle. Remember, you, the rider, are

There are special tests that I perform with my riders to

an important part of the horse and rider athletic team. As

determine if this “weaker” leg is actually weak. Usually,

good horse owners and riders, we tend to focus most of

the test shows the leg is strong, but there is no balance

our attention on our horses: the horse’s balance, warm-

and support from the opposite leg. If the hips are not

ups, cool-downs, and treatments—but what about you!

equal in strength and flexibility, then the rider will have

I want to draw your attention to YOU! Think about

an imbalance in the pelvis, which translates to your seat

your ride. Do you find that you always collapse to one

in the saddle. The horse feels this imbalance in his back,

side, fix with one arm, prefer to ride left more than right,

which will affect his overall performance. Just like the

have back, hip, and/or other joint pain? Yes? Of course.

horse, the rider works in diagonals. Biomechanically, if

We all do! So, it’s time to start working on yourself.

the rider applies a force, there must be an equal and

The first place I start with my riders are their hips and pelvis. If horses can feel a fly on their back, then they can

140

jumping, the team always loses more time turning left

opposite force to stabilize that movement and produce it effectively in the horse.

Exercise 1

Exercise 2

I’d like you to first perform a self-test to determine

Exercise 1: Clams

which one of your legs feels inadequate, or into

Here I demonstrate a basic exercise to start activating

which stirrup you have difficulty shifting your weight.

the Gluteus Medius. Starting in correct alignment is very

Remember, do not perform any of these tests or

important to put the muscle in the optimal position. To

exercises if they cause pain or risk of injury. Maintain a

do this, start by laying on your side (start without the

safe environment.

band if you have never done these before). Bend both

Self-test: On a solid surface, perform a single leg

knees, place top hand on your waist, and keep your

stance for 30 seconds; compare left vs. right leg. If

hips/pelvis rolled slightly forward. Engage your lower

the solid surface is easy and equal on each side, try

abdominals (you should feel the abs under your fingers),

standing on an unstable surface like a pillow or foam

keep your feet together, then slowly lift your top knee

cushion. If you collapse while standing on one leg, or

rolling it slightly up and back. Only go as high as you

shake, or are unable to perform without holding on,

can without causing your back, waist, or hand to move.

part of the problem is likely that your Gluteus Medius

Rotate up as high as you can in a slow and controlled

is weak.

motion. Hold at the top for about 5 seconds, then slowly

So now what? I’m going to show you how to start

lower back down. If you are able to complete at least 20

with hip strengthening exercises that focus on the

clams with minimal fatigue, add a resistance band. The

Gluteus Medius, which is a critical muscle for riders to

band should be flat and placed above the knees.

strengthen. It is on the side and slightly to the back of the hip. It helps extend and rotate the leg.

Exercise 2: Side Plank Clams

These are the first two exercises in a progression

Here is a progression of the clams. As above, start

of exercises that have shown to be most significantly

without the band and progress as tolerated. Start

effective in improving muscle strength in the Gluteus

in the same position as above, but come up on your

Medius.

elbow and forearm. Lift your hips, keeping your top line

141

RI D ER WE L L NESS

Pre-Treatment

Post-Treatment

During my rider performance clinics, riders will see and feel changes right away, like this rider. The correction is simple and effective. I was able to correct the under-active hip and gain symmetry in the seat. This activation can take a few minutes just before riding and I encourage this with all my riders at any level and in any discipline.

straight from shoulder to knee. Keep your top hand on your waist, keep your hips/pelvis rolled slightly forward.

Keep your feet together, then slowly lift your top knee, rolling it slightly up and back. Only go as high as you can without dropping your hips. Rotate up as high as you can in a slow and controlled motion. Hold your knee up for about 5 seconds, then slowly lower back down. If you are able to complete at least 20 side plank clams with minimal fatigue, add a resistance band. The band should be flat and placed above the knees.

These ground exercises are a great way to start improving your balance and stabilization on the horse.

I know there are so many choices for exercises, but it is best to keep it simple and focus on the most important for your goals. Practice these exercises every day before you ride and continue as tolerated through the progression. You will notice as you move through the exercises, you will feel more stable in the saddle and require less effort in your aides to get your horse to move smoothly, efficiently, and accurately.

142

The human-equine relationship is threaded throughout the fabric of our history.

Humanity has been able to spread far and wide on the backs of horses -- but the carnage of horses at the hands of humans is also well documented. Sadly, horses are still faced with the same challenges, continuing to put their future welfare in jeopardy.

Over 65,000 horses were transported across our borders for slaughter in 2019 -- most were young, healthy, and had untapped potential.

Tens of thousands more abused and neglected horses are in need of rescue and re-homing each year.

The EQUUS Foundation is committed to finding homes for at-risk horses and horses in transition, providing a safe-haven for aged and infirm horses, and increasing opportunities for all people to engage and partner with horses in new and innovative ways.

65,009

Horses shipped across the border to be slaughtered last year

48 million People with disabilities in the

United States

69,000

People with disabilities currently being assisted by America’s horses.

7,900

Horses currently assisting Americans with disabilities.

The solution is within our reach!

Tens of thousands of horses at risk for abuse, neglect, and slaughter could, instead, be dramatically improving the lives of people..

For horses to remain an important part of American life and have a viable future, we need to embrace a fundamental shift in our attitude towards horses -- from the horse as a commodity to the horse as an athlete, companion, teacher, and healer.

Contact us: 203-259-1550 mail@equusfoundation.org Learn more: www.equusfoundation.org 143

(1st place CCI4*-S) Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z

eventing All photos by Steven Long SL EQ Sport Photography

(1st place CCI4*-S) Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z

MARS Great Meadow

International CCI3*-S and CCI4*-S The Plains, Virginia August 19-23, 2020

Like every equestrian discipline, COVID-19 took its

came ready to dance when they half-passed right over

toll on the eventing scene. Of the sixteen CCI4*-S events

the Great Meadow International CCI4*-S dressage record

originally scheduled for 2020, only seven will run. In its

score of 24.2 (held since 2016 by Clark Montgomery and

second year of title sponsorship by Mars Equestrian, Mars

Loughan Glen) with their score of 21.8.

Great Meadow International was the first event at this

Final scores for the CCI4*-S came down to the wire

level since everything shut down in March after the Red

when Liz Halliday-Sharp’s (USA) ride was called into

Hills CCI4*-S in Florida.

question over a flag at fence 17. The Ground Jury ruled in

The originator of Great Meadow International, David

her favor and she finished first on her dressage score of

O’Connor, designed a challenging course for the 223

24.2. After taking a rail down in the show jumping phase,

entries, up 77 from last year. It seems riders were itching

Will Coleman (USA) and Off The Record placed second

to come out of lockdown and get back to work. “So

with an impressive dressage score of 21.9. Erin Kanara

many events have been canceled, and this has been such

(USA) and Paddy the Caddy rounded out the top three.

a beacon on the calendar for all of the riders,” Marilyn

Liz and Erin brought the fight to the CCI3*-S as well, with

Little (USA) told US Eventing. “To have a place like this

Liz placing second riding Cooley Be Cool and Erin placing

to come during a pandemic is really special. Without

fourth aboard Morning Glory SE. CCI3*-S top three final

Mars’s support, this would never have happened. The

scores: (1) Lynn Symansky on RF Cool Play (USA), (2) Liz

feeling from the riders, we’re all just really grateful, and

Halliday-Sharp on Cooley Be Cool (USA), and (3) Meg

everyone’s happy to be here.” Marilyn and RF Scandalous

Pellegrini on RF Eloquence (USA).

145

(1st place CCI4*-S) Liz Halliday-Sharp and Deniro Z

eventing

(2nd place CCI4*-S) Will Coleman and Off The Record

(3rd place CCI4*-S) Erin Kanara and Paddy the Caddy 147

(1st place CCI3*-S) Lynn Symansky and RF Cool Play

eventing

(2nd place CCI3*-S) Liz Halliday-Sharp and Cooley Be Cool

(3rd place CCI3*-S) Meg Pellegrini and RF Eloquence

RESTORE THE CORE. Introducing ULTIMATE RECOVERY TM – A supplement for performance horses.

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Learn more at BuckeyeNutrition.com

o u r w o r ld

Horse Health Webinar Series Brings Experts to You If there is one thing horse owners are passionate about, it’s their horse’s care. To ensure their four-legged friends stay healthy and happy, they spend a great amount of their time, talent, and money on the best treatments and products available.

But how do we know it’s money well spent? Is

wanted fellow horse owners to hear some of the

the latest “it” product going to be effective, or is

great information I was learning,” she explains.

there more an owner should know? Can you trust

Julie decided on a webinar format to create a live,

medical information that populates the internet? As

interactive experience for attendees and began

COVID-19 began to cause horse show cancellations

contacting possible allies and industry colleagues to

and training facility shutdowns, these questions

help get the program off the ground. After finding

were on the mind of entrepreneur and lifelong

that her idea resonated with them, she began to

horse owner, Julie Garella.

approach leading equine veterinarians and scholars,

Since becoming the owner of several small

asking for their participation as presenters. They

horse care brands eight years ago, Julie has

also responded enthusiastically to the idea—from

frequently

there things came together quickly.

sponsored

continuing

education

events for veterinarians. Through attending the

Less than three weeks later, the webinar series,

educational portions of these events, she noticed

For the Love of the Horse, was launched. Each

an information gap between what the attending

edition features a 20 to 30-minute presentation

professionals learned and what horse owners could

followed by a live question and answer period.

readily access.

Leading veterinarians and equine professionals

As our social interactions became limited,

provide their time and expertise as presenters while

Julie went to work on her goal of providing free

a collective of horse care brands, industry media,

health

and breed and discipline associations help promote

and

soundness-related

education

that

would help owners make informed choices for the care and treatment of their beloved horses. “As

152

the venture.

The

series

quickly

grew

in

popularity,

the COVID-19 ‘shelter-in-place’ order began to

necessitating the launch of www.lovethehorse.

look more long term, I decided to take action. I

com, where visitors can register for upcoming

“

“

As the COVID-19 ‘shelter-in-place’ order began to look more

long term, I decided to take action. I wanted fellow horse owners to hear some of the great information I was learning.” julie garella

webinars and view replays on demand. With

seems like a great way to share information

just 10 episodes thus far, the response has

and learn in an interactive way. From the start,

been remarkable, garnering more than 6,000

we focused on evidence-based content that

registered attendees from 38 states and over 40

provides useful information for preventing

countries. And, nearly half of attendees have

and treating horse health issues. The goal is

attended multiple sessions.

healthier horses through greater access to the

Saying she thinks the series has tapped a

Photo credit Penn Vet New Bolton Center

need, Julie emphasizes that the main goal is

best information out there—think PBS for horse owners.”

connecting horse owners with up-to-date,

As a former investment banker, Julie started

quality information that is factual and useful—

MacKinnon Products in 2012, purchasing brands

and most importantly, rooted in science.

in the horse health sector as a way to continue

“For the Love of the Horse is connecting

working while spending as much time as possible

with owners who are used to seeing a lot of

in the horse world. “All of my products crossover

sponsored content that isn’t necessarily factual.

from the veterinary to the consumer sector,” she

We want to build a bridge between expert level

explains. “We are sticklers about only making

veterinary knowledge and horse owners so

science-backed claims.” But, she says she got

that owners can make more informed decisions

tired of being out-marketed by larger brands, so

about their horse’s health and soundness.

she began working directly with veterinarians to

Hosting a non-promotional webinar series

develop products.

Dr. Cristobal Navas uses 64 data points to measure cardiorespiratory fitness.

153

o u r w o r ld

Julie

also

began

sponsoring

continuing

education events for veterinarians and practitioners.

they can make better, more informed decisions regarding their horse’s health and soundness.”

As she attended the seminars, it became clear that

For the Love of the Horse is a great way to share

the knowledge and diagnostic tools available to

information in an interactive way where horse

veterinarians has exploded. Equine medicine has

owners can gain access to useful and accurate

become much more sophisticated—with specialists

equine health care information. With more than

in internal and sports medicine, and research

350 attendees for the first edition, the series was

exploring and treating issues like respiratory

an instant draw, which Julie attributes in large part

failures, conditioning techniques, and new ways to

to the caliber of presenters who committed their

use technology for better outcomes.

time and expertise.

“There are all kinds of resources available, if you know where to look. But with little regulation,

154

The Presenters

companies can claim their products do things that

The veterinarians Julie contacted were very

aren’t necessarily accurate or helpful. Combined

receptive. For the Love of the Horse and its mission

with

the

resonated with some of the most respected horse

internet, I knew they weren’t helping people care

health professionals,―from leading veterinarians to

for their horses as well as they could. People are

researchers and scholars. To the audience’s benefit,

emotionally invested and want a quick fix. Sort

these experts are excited about the mission and

of like the cosmetics industry—there are a lot of

the opportunity to contribute to educating horse

claims that seem far-fetched but are hard to check.

owners.

the

amount

of

misinformation

on

My goal was to bridge the gap between expert

Because many have made continuing education

level veterinary knowledge and horse owners so

presentations in the past, they embraced the live

o u r w o r ld

Photo courtesy of Dr. Bras.

Dr. Raul Bras’s webinar, Hoof Lameness - Undersdtanding Causes and Cures, drew more than 900 attendees.

and interactive format of a webinar. A relatively

Role of Cardiorespiratory Health in Equine

short 20 to 30-minute presentation and live

Performance

question and answer period works really well,

• Former Olympic veterinarian Dr. Richard

and the “chat” encourages attendees to post

Mitchell on The Value of the Ridden Lameness

questions, interact, and participate in discussion.

Exam

“I’ve

been

surprised

by

the

level

of

• Dr. Raul Bras, both a veterinarian and a

engagement and the quality of the audiences

Certified Journeyman Farrier, on Hoof Lameness:

for the webinars,” said Dr. Jen Gold, ACVIM and

Understanding Causes and Cures.

Clinical Associate Professor at Washington State

• Dr. Clair Thunes, an equine nutritional

University known for her expertise in internal

expert, on Hay: What’s in it and What Else Does

medicine. “Because a large portion of the

Your Horse Need?

audience had attended previous editions, the chat room was a huge source of engagement and connection during and after my presentation.”

The Spirit of Collaboration Building partnerships with organizations like the American Quarter Horse Association have

Recent Presentations

proved successful. “Our mission is to share

• Dr. James Orsini of UPenn School of

quality educational content with American

Veterinary Medicine on Laminitis: Understanding

Quarter Horse owners,” said Tara Matsler, the

the Disease and Best Practices in Prevention

AQHA’s digital content manager. “It not only

• FEI veterinarian Dr. Kent Allen on Back Issues in Performance Horses • Dr. Samantha Brooks, an equine genetics

helps our members―it will hopefully improve horse care and owner knowledge overall.”

Horse

ownership

and

the

supporting

specialist, on The Impact of DNA on the

industries are shrinking, so continuing to divide

Performance Horse

resources just didn’t seem like a good answer,

• Dr. Cristobal Navas De Solis, a leading

Julie explained, who reached out to a network

researcher on cardiorespiratory issues, on The

of like-minded people at the start of the project.

155

Dr. Phoebe Smith hosted For the Love of the Horse’s most recent webinar, Understanding Metabolic and Cushings Syndrome on November 8th.

“

“

The series quickly grew in popularity, necessitating the launch of

www.lovethehorse.com, where visitors could register for upcoming webinars and view replays on demand.

Current partners include Back On Track, Ice

constituents, we reach not only high-level

Horse, Phelps Media Group, and Pro Equine

equine competitors but the other 70 percent

Grooms.

of the horse-owning population. Those owners, who compete locally or may not compete at all,

The Audience With more than 2 million horse owners in

reminds Julie.

the United States, the potential audience is vast.

Since inception in March 2020, For the Love

“It seems like they have been waiting for this

of the Horse, has gained thousands of followers

information,” says Julie, who estimates they

with more than 6,000 individuals registered

are reaching nearly a quarter of horse owners

to date. To learn more about the horse health

through targeted emails.

series and register for an upcoming webinar—

“Because we have such a cross-section of companies and organizations inviting their

156

are just as invested in their horse’s health care,”

or replay a previous edition on demand—visit www.lovethehorse.com.

LEARN FROM THE BEST—

World-class veterinarians answer questions and share best practices to help keep your horse healthy, happy, and in peak performance.

WATCH & LEARN Live Webinars lovethehorse.com

On Demand lovethehorse.com Follow the Love facebook/lovehorsehealth

Alden Corrigan Media, Back On Track, Ice Horse, ProEquine Grooms & Phelps Media Group

Stay Social While We Maintain Social Distance: #BestOfBlenheim #ThePlaceToJump #WestCoastShowcation #BES2021 

@BLENHEIMEQ



@BLENHEIMEQUISPORTS



@BLENHEIMEQ

BLENHEIM EQUISPORTS

Thank you!

Thanks to everyone who supported the 2020 Dressage at Devon virtual show.

We hope to see you next September!

Mark your calendars for the 2021 Dressage at Devon!

See You in 2021!

Sept 28 - Oct 3, 2021

Support Dressage at Devon, a non-profit organization, as we prepare for the future.

Please join us as we Passage Into the Future dressageatdevon.org/passage-into-the-future

ŠStacy Lynne Photography

ŠHoofprints Images (4)

Exciting Exhibitions

Ladies Hat Day

Food & Shopping

Please visit our website dressageatdevon.org Sign up for our Newsletter & follow us on Facebook.

Breed Show

epilogue

UNCONSCIOUS BIAS

Bias is a prejudice in favor of or against

social worlds by categorizing. Unconscious

one thing, person, or group compared with

bias is far more prevalent than conscious

another, usually in a way that’s considered to

prejudice and often incompatible with one’s

be unfair. Biases may be held by an individual,

conscious values.

group, or institution and can have negative or positive consequences.

It is important to note that biases, conscious or unconscious, are not limited to ethnicity and

Unconscious biases are social stereotypes

race. Though racial bias and discrimination biases

may

exist

about certain groups of people that individuals

are

form outside their own conscious awareness.

toward any social group. One’s age, gender,

Everyone

about

gender identity, physical abilities, religion,

various social and identity groups, and these

sexual orientation, weight, and many other

biases stem from one’s tendency to organize

characteristics are subject to bias.

holds

unconscious

beliefs

well

documented,

From the University of California, San Francisco: Office of Diversity and Outreach at https://diversity.ucsf.edu/resources/unconscious-bias.