Equestrian November/December 2015
‘Tis the Season of Giving Equestrian Charities
A Moveable Feast
A Modern Twist on Thanksgiving
A Versatile Athlete
More Than a One-Trick Pony
Table of Contents
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER
22 30
39
Cover photo: New Vocations
22 A Versatile Athlete
Retired racehorses get a new lease on life.
30 ‘Tis the Season of Giving
Equestrian Charities
39 A Moveable Feast
A modern twist on Thanksgiving
4 Equestrian November / December
Departments
6 Sponsors
Take a Look at Our Partners
8 Juniors’ Ring
USEF U-25 Show Jumping National Championship
12 Seen and Heard
In and Around the Ring
Diana Conlon
Security at Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event
16 Day in the Life
18 Inside Perspective
usef.org
Letter
W
ith the holiday season upon us, the writers at Equestrian Magazine are reflecting on a wonderful year and looking forward to 2016. In October, Retired Racehorse Project hosted the first Thoroughbred Makeover in conjunction with the Breeders’ Cup in Lexington, Ky., showcasing the many talents of off-the-track Thoroughbreds. Sarah Coleman, Director of Education & Development for New Vocations, takes a look at the highly successful event and what’s to come in the future. The holidays are often a time when people around the world choose to contribute to their favorite philanthropies. Equestrian Magazine reveals several equestrian athletes’ favorite charities and how they give back to their communities. The dining room table is often at the center of many holiday celebrations. Mary Cox, an equestrian interior designer who recently launched Horse of a Different Color, a classic equestrian home décor line, gives readers tips on some decorating for the table. The CP National Horse Show hosted the exciting new championship for up-and-coming show jumping athletes: the $100,000 USEF U25 Show Jumping National Championship presented by the Porter Family, the Jacobs Family, the Jobs Family, & the Keenan Family. Equestrian Magazine recaps the inaugural championship and hears from a few people on how they think it will help future equestrians. Whether you’ll be spending your holidays at home with loved ones or in the barn preparing for 2016, Equestrian Magazine and the USEF wish all equestrians a joyful holiday season and a happy New Year!
6 Equestrian November / December
Equestrian Magazine Volume LXXVIII, No. 6
Published by The United States Equestrian Federation, Inc. Chief Marketing Officer Colby Connell Advertising Director Kim Russell Account Executive Crissi White Contributing Writers Mary Cox Sarah E. Coleman Contributing Editors Lee Carter Mark Coley Kathleen Landwehr Leah Oliveto Dana Rossmeier Eileen Schnettler Sissy Wickes Design & Layout Courtney Cotton Candice McCown
Equestrian magazine (ISSN 1548-873X) is published seven times a year: January/February, Horse of the Year Special Edition, March/April/Spectator’s Guide, May/June, July/ August, September/October, November/December, by the United States Equestrian Federation®, 4047 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511; Phone: (859) 258-2472; Fax: (859) 231-6662. (ISSN:1548-873X). NOTE: Effective Issue 1 of 2015, Equestrian magazine will be published and provided electronically and only four editions will have a limited number of printed copies. Only the Horse of the Year Special Edition will provided in the U.S. Mail. USEF is not responsible for the opinions and statements expressed in signed articles and paid advertisements. These opinions are not necessarily the opinions of USEF and its staff. While the Federation makes every effort to avoid errors, we assume no liability to anyone for mistakes or omissions. It is the policy of the Federation to report factually and accurately in Equestrian and to encourage and to publish corrections whenever warranted. Kindly direct any comments or inquiries regarding corrections to the Colby Connell cconnell@usef.org or by direct dial 859-2252024. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Equestrian, 4047 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511. Canadian Publications Agreement No. 40845627. For Canadian returns, mail to Canada Express, 7686 #21 Kimble Street Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, L5S1E9. (905) 672-8100. Reproduction of any article, in whole or part, by written permission only of the Editor. Equestrian: Publisher, United States Equestrian Federation®, Chief Executive Officer, Chris Welton (859) 2256912. Director of Advertising, Kim Russell (859) 225-6938. Copyright © 2014. Equestrian is the official publication of the United States Equestrian Federation, the National Governing Body for Equestrian Sport in the USA, and is an official publication of USEF.
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Partners Official Timepiece of the USEF www.rolex.com
Official Apparel Supplier of the USEF & Official Sponsor of the United States Show Jumping Team www.hermes.com
Official Vehicle of the USEF & Title Sponsor of the U.S. Eventing Team www.landrover.com
Official Tire Products of the USEF www.Bridgestone.com
Title Sponsor of the USEF Show Jumping Talent Search Program www.platinumperformance.com
Official Boot and Jean Supplier of the USEF www.ariat.com
Official Joint Therapy of the USEF, Title Sponsor of the North American Junior and Young Riders Championships, & Title Sponsor of the Open Reining Championship www.adequan.com
Official Pain Management Product, Official Deworming Product, & Official Equine Stomach Ulcer Products www.merial.com
Official Tack and Equipment Supplier of the USEF, Title Sponsor of the North American Junior and Young Riders Reining Championships, & Sponsor of the USEF Network www.SmartPakEquine.com
Official Fly Control Products of the USEF & Official Grooming Products of the USEF www.farnamhorse.com
Sponsors Official Riding Gloves of the USEF www.heritagegloves.com
Official Saddlepad of the USEF www.Toklat.com
Sponsor of U.S. Dressage Festival of Champions and Two- and Three-Star Eventing National Championships www.timdutta.com
Official Blanket of the U.S. High Performance Teams www.Horseware.com
Official Sponsor of the USEF www.salleehorsevans.com
Official Performance Horse Boot and Leg Wear of the USEF www.equifit.net
Official Dressage Arena of the USEF www.premierequestrian.com
Official Awards Blanket of the USEF www.buildyourownblanket.com
Title Sponsor of the USEF National Hunter Seat Equitation Medal Final www.englishridingsupply.com
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Official Ribbon Supplier (800) 556-2440 www.hodgesbadges.com
Official Credit Card Supplier www.usbank.com
Official Automobile Rental Agency of the USEF www.Hertz.com/USEF Be sure to include the USEF discount code CDP# 15757 when you make your reservation to get special discounts!
Title Sponsor of the USEF Junior Dressage National Championship & Title Sponsor of the USEF Young Rider Dressage National Championship www.agco.com
Official Equine Feeder and Waterer of the USEF & Official Horse Stallplate of the USEF www.nelsonmfg.com
Title Sponsor of the USEF Young Horse Dressage Program, Young Horse National Championships, & Selection Trials www.horseinsurance.com
Official Pain Management Product of the USEF www.equioxx.com
Official Deworming Product of the USEF www.zimecterin.com
Official Nutritionist of the USEF www.ker.com
Official Sponsor of the USEF & Title Sponsor of the Junior Jumper National Championship nsbits.com
Official Therapy Plate of the USEF theraplate.com
Official Liniment of the USEF absorbine.com
Official Equine Pharmacy of the USEF www.hagyardpharmacy.com
Title Sponsor of the U.S. Pony Medal Championship www.marshallsterling.com
8 Equestrian November / December
Official Saddle Supplier of the U.S. Dressage Team www.mysaddle.com
Title Sponsor of the U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage Team and the U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championships www.deliotte.com
Official Equine Stomach Ulcer Products of the USEF www.merial.com
Official Supplier of Laser Therapy to the USEF www.multiradiance.com
Official Feed of the U.S. Eventing, U.S. Show Jumping, and U.S. Dressage Teams www.triplecrownfeed.com
Official Horsebox of the USEF www.stadiumhorsebox.com
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Juniors’ Ring
USEF U25 SHOW JUMPING NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
The championship originated as a means to transition Young Riders to the senior ranks. The 28 athletes who competed in this year’s championship were invited according to their ranking on the USEF U25 Rider Ranking List, which tracks performance in a wide variety of applicable classes. DiAnn Langer, USEF Show Jumping Developing Rider Chef d’Equipe, explained, “This new USEF U25 Show Jumping National Championship and the support for this division in the Developing Rider Program by the National Horse Show makes the bridge between the Young Rider and the senior ranks seamless. The National Horse Show’s commitment to future generations of high performance athletes is invaluable to our future success.” Lucy Deslauriers had solid performances in all three championship competitions to claim the overall U25 title with her mount, Hester. In the first competition, Deslauriers did not feel she rode her best
Numerous championships and programs exist to help develop young talent for the future. This fall, the CP National Horse Show hosted an exciting new championship for up-and-coming show jumping athletes with the inaugural $100,000 USEF U25 Show Jumping National Championship presented by the Porter Family, the Jacobs Family, the Jobs Family, and the Keenan Family. The championship included 28 combinations from Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. competing for top honors. It was based on the FEI World Cup format with fence heights up to 1.50m, giving these rising stars between the ages of 16 and 25 the feel for senior-level championship competition. The athletes competed in three competitions, the $15,000 Faults Converted competition, $20,000 JumpOff competition, and $30,000 Two Round competition, after which the overall champion was determined. Top: Silver medalists Katherine Strauss and All In Below: The 2015 $100,000 USEF U25 Show Jumping National Championship medalists - (left to right) Katherine Strauss (Silver), Lucy Deslauriers (Gold), and Catherine Tyree (Bronze)
10 Equestrian November / December
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PHOTOS: SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY
with one rail down to finish in eighth place. The talented 16-year-old redeemed herself in the second competition by winning with a clean, fast jump-off aboard Hester. On the final night, the duo had two flawless clear rounds over the challenging courses to earn the championship Gold medal. “I think it is an absolutely great division,” said Deslauriers. “It’s the perfect in-between step amid the High [Junior and Amateur Owner divisions] and the Grand Prix level. At select shows, it is a really special division, and it does a great job of bringing us up from the highs that we have been doing for the rest of the year.” In competing over three days, the championship’s format gave athletes the opportunity to learn from one round to the next, as a weak performance in an early round could still leave room to rebound in the overall competition. Kelli Cruciotti did not have a strong first competition with Chamonix H, yet a great performance in the second competition propelled her up the overall standings. Another stellar performance in the third competition allowed Cruciotti to finish fifth in the overall championship. Great riding was on display throughout the championship, even when things did not go quite as planned. Katherine Strauss and All In won the first competition and, while they had a few unlucky rails in the other competitions, their skill and consistency allowed them to claim the Silver medal. Catherine Tyree and Enjoy Louis were sitting in second place heading into the last night of the competition when a mistake resulted in an unexpected refusal in the first round of the final competition. Tyree composed herself and completed the course and then came back to the arena with a solid performance in the second round to secure the Bronze medal. The growth displayed by these athletes, not only throughout the year but from one championship round to the next, highlighted the strength of the U25 Program in giving young athletes the opportunity to gain valuable experience in high-level competition. As more and more U25 classes are added at competitions around the country, the U25 Program is poised to create a strong pipeline of experienced young talent moving into the top level of show jumping.
Above: Lucy Deslauriers and Hester on their way to claiming the inaugural 2015 $100,000 USEF U25 Show Jumping National Championship title Opposite bottom left: Bronze medalists Catherine Tyree and Enjoy Louis
■ Kathleen Landwehr
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November / December
Equestrian 11
Changing the way you look at equestrian sport.
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Seen & Heard
BUZZ AROUND THE RING
“This was like a dream come true. We are going to use the feedback from the judges and work to improve especially on bringing more power and brilliance in the movements, while maintaining accuracy. There were dozens of people who came together to make this championship happen; I could not have done this without them.”
PHOTOS (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): MOONFYRE PHOTOGRAPHY, PICSOFYOU.COM, LIBBY LAW PHOTOGRAPHY, BECKY PEARMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
-Kate Shoemaker after winning the CPEDI1* Championship National Division title with Solitaer 40, leading the division from beginning to end
It was a really great week. My horse jumped incredibly in all the rounds. The first round I didn’t ride my best, so I really tried to put in strong efforts the rest of the week, and he really helped me out there. - Lucy Deslauriers after winning the inaugural $100,000 USEF U25 National Championship presented by the Porter Family, the Jacobs Family, the Jobs Family and the Keenan Family with Hester
14 Equestrian November / December
Top: Rebecca Hart won her seventh consecutive National Title after winning the 2015 CPEDI3* Championship High Performance Division Championship with Schroeter’s Romani. Bottom: Mary Kathryn Clark and Questafir were the top U.S. combination at the 2015 FEI World Endurance Championship for Young Riders and Juniors.
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He’s got everything - he’s the whole package. It’s an unbelievable feeling to be sitting on him; I am blown away every time I ride him. - Tamra Smith on Mai Baum after winning The Dutta Corp./USEF Three-Star Eventing National Champion and USEF National Developing Rider Champion titles at The Dutta Corp. Fair Hill International
“I was definitely nervous being in the lead, I am usually ranked lower going in so it’s less pressure. This was a new position for me and it added more pressure to stay on top in the second round and in the test.” -Winner Kelli Cruciotti on being last in the order for the workoff of the Pessoa/US Hunter Seat Medal Final at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show Top: Suzy Stafford and PVF Peace of Mind led from start to finish in the USEF Single Horse Driving National Championship at the Hermitage Classic Combined Driving Event. Bottom: In their European debut, Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF finished in sixth place individually and led the Land Rover U.S. Eventing Team to the Silver medal at the Military Boekelo-Enschede CCIO3*.
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November / December
Equestrian 15
Introducing the Monaco Stretch. Fit to move.
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Day in the Life
D I A N A CO N LO N
Diana Conlon is a trainer at Olive Hill Sporthorses, a premier sales and training program in Lexington, Ky., located minutes from the Kentucky Horse Park. She is also the coach of the University of Kentucky Equestrian Team, which is nationally competitive in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association. Conlon took Equestrian Magazine through a day in her hectic schedule, managing many lessons.
[5:30-6 a.m.] The day starts early! My husband leaves for work by 6:30 every day, so we usually eat breakfast and catch up before he leaves. I then will spend some time on the computer planning horse shows, booking hotels, updating my website, or organizing lessons. This is when I get most of my work done! [8 a.m.] During the UK Equestrian Team’s season, I usually have a few morning lessons a week (including a 7 a.m. lesson most weeks!). I try to encourage them to schedule morning lessons, as it is easier on my schedule (and my horses) to spread lessons out a little. The UK Team lessons are group lessons on my school horses. They ride for 10 weeks in the fall and spring, and with almost 40 team members, it makes for a busy time!
PHOTOS: SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY DIANA CONLON
[9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.] The middle of the day is spent riding my sale horses and horses in training. Before the day starts, my assistant (Alexa) and I make a schedule of who we are riding that day, who needs to jump, what everyone is working on, sale videos, etc., and then we spend the next few hours getting that done. Alexa and I will both ride five-six horses a day, and then there is usually some time for a quick lunch or errand before the afternoon rush starts. [3 p.m.] During the school year, the kids are getting out of school during this time and the barn starts getting busy. In the afternoons on Monday and Wednesdays, my lessons start at 3:30 and go until 7:30 or 8:30. They are a mix of UK Team lessons and boarder/client lessons. Tuesdays and Thursdays are Alexa’s lesson days, so if I’m not teaching in the evening, I will be catching up on paperwork or going out to dinner (I DON’T cook!!). [8:30-9 p.m.] On a normal day, now we are winding down, watching Netflix (The Office and The Blacklist), and getting ready for bed. I will spend some time on the computer doing billing, scheduling, etc, if needed, but am rarely up past 9:30. 18 Equestrian November / December
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H
igh-level competition horses are to the equine world what preeminent quarterbacks are to the NFL. They are exceptionally athletic, highly coveted, and fans swoon over them. Because of their prestige, talent, and value sentimental and monetary – owners and competition venues employ security measures to protect them. From home stables to competition barns, tight security eases owners’ and riders’ peace of mind. Extensive planning goes into security at competitions with the sole purpose of keeping horses and athletes safe. How is it done? Vanessa Coleman, Director of Competition for the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event (RK3DE), gave Equestrian Magazine a detailed overview of horse and rider security during RK3DE at the Kentucky Horse Park. The International Compound Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) rules mandate competition organizers provide secured, fenced stabling. Import and Export protocols mandate separate stabling for international horses. This ensures that neither domestic nor international horses contract and transmit diseases within their respective countries. RK3DE defines this confined area as the International Compound, with barn five serving as the international horse stable. Because of the FEI’s strict protocol, RK3DE safeguards this area with security. Before horses enter the international compound, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees the disinfection and then inspects the barn to ensure proper measures have been taken to provide appropriate bio-securi20 Equestrian November / December
A LO O K AT R K 3 D E S E C U R I T Y
ty. Security fences the perimeter of barn five back to barn six to keep unauthorized individuals out. Members of the Kentucky State Police, professional security workers, and trained volunteers monitor the area 24 hours a day. “Logistically, barn five is the easiest to maintain and monitor because of the quarantine and isolation protocols. We make sure the facility is up to the USDA’s standards, and it’s very closely, very carefully monitored. We have 24-hour security so the horses, tack, and additional equipment are not disturbed. The backs of the stalls are locked to ensure no one can get in, and the perimeter is being watched. We’ve never had an issue because security is positioned strategically to monitor the facility,” said Coleman. There is only one entrance in and out of the International Compound, manned by Kentucky State Police officers. They are tasked with keeping a clear perimeter and approving authorization. RK3DE issues those associated with the horse and athlete picture identification badges to ensure legit entrance. The FEI limits the number of people allowed in the stables to minimize foot traffic and potential security breaches. “We try to do the best we can to keep everything safe and monitored. The riders have enough to think about and concentrate on during competition without also having to worry about their horse’s wellbeing,” said Coleman. The Domestic Compound Also per FEI Rules, the Domestic Compound protects the domestic horses. RK3DE stables them in barns eight through 12. An eight-foot high chain linked fence, with metal clamped locks, keeps the general public away from the barns and gives usef.org
PHOTOS: MARK COLEY
Inside Perspective
horses and athletes some time to unwind. The fencing perimeter starts at the corner of the show office and extends up to barn 13 to incorporate water and the manure pile. During the day, three access points, manned by volunteers and backed up by police officers and professional security, allow horses, athletes, and those associated with them to get to the barns. During the evening, security closes two gates, leaving one access point because foot traffic decreases at night. Security consistently circles around the perimeter 24 hours a day. “We employee a horse person to night-watch, as state police or security may not understand a horse problem. He periodically, and quietly, walks up and down the aisles just to make sure the horses are okay,” said Coleman. Barn Access Any horse-loving equestrian competition spectator would love barn access. RK3DE security knows this. Unfortunately, asking during the competition is pointless. Some of the RK3DE security’s biggest challenges come from those who want barn access. RK3DE allows the athlete to have up to five people with barn access. This usually includes a groom plus four others. “We are very strict about barn access because it really is for the horses’ and riders’ protection. I think the riders appreciate this because the barn should be a place where they have the ability to escape, especially at an event like this, when there are 80,000 people across four days, wanting autographs and watching their every move. This is not entirely bad, but the riders deserve to have a space to reflect on their prior performance,” said Coleman.
Before the competition, the athlete has to notify Coleman which five people they want allowed barn access, define their roles, and include photo identification. Such individuals may include a veterinarian, physiotherapist, a friend, and family member. RK3DE moved from a wrist band system – where anyone could share identification – to official photo identification for an extra layer of protection. As an extra security caution, a veterinarian must check in with the RK3DE Veterinarian Delegate before a badge is issued. “If I did sleep the week of the event, I would not be kept up by the security. We have two board members that are in charge of security, and they are phenomenal. Everyone works so well together between the Kentucky State Police, the private security firm, and volunteers. Mary Fike, who is our stable manager, Karen Winn, Chief FEI Steward and her assistant stewards, and Cleon Wingard, Chief of Stable Security, are exceptionally educated in how all of this works and what we need to do to keep everyone protected,” said Coleman. Over the course of RK3DE, 105 Kentucky State Police officers, and 110 private security personnel from Andy Frain of Kentucky, an independent security firm, manage RK3DE security. All this is for the horses’ and athletes’ safety and protection, as much as it is for spectators. Every event has to follow FEI rules. However, not all events have the same security protocol. What a competition puts into it, they get out of it. With no security instances since RK3DE inception, RK3DE has everything covered. Rolex Kentucky Three-Day event takes place April 28 through May 1, 2016 at the Kentucky Horse Park. ■ Dana Rossmeier
Top left: A rider gives her horse some exercise just outside Domestic Stabling. Above: International horses prepare to enter their stalls following disinfection. Left: Will Colemen shows off his identification. RK3DE moved from a wrist band system to official photo identification for an extra layer of protection. usef.org
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22 Equestrian November / December
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Equestrian 23
A VERSATILE ATHLETE:
MORE THAN A ONE-TRICK PONY
24 Equestrian November / December
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PHOTO: COURTESY NEW VOCATIONS
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November / December
Equestrian 25
WITH AN ESTIMATED 20,300 THOROUGHBRED FOALS BORN IN THE UNITED STATES IN 2014 AND ONLY ONE KENTUCKY DERBY WINNER, THE ODDS ARE PRETTY SLIM THAT EVERY THOROUGHBRED TO HIT THE GROUND WILL MAKE IT EITHER AS A GRADED-STAKES WINNER OR A SUCCESSFUL BREEDING PROSPECT. BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN THAT THESE RETIRED ATHLETES ARE WORTHLESS—NOT BY A LONG SHOT! TYPICALLY RETIRED BY FOUR- OR FIVE-YEARS-OLD, THE VAST MAJORITY OF THESE ANIMALS CAN GO ON TO EXTREMELY SUCCESSFUL SECOND CAREERS. THOROUGHBREDS CAN COMPETE AND EXCEL IN ALL DISCIPLINES, EVEN THOSE NOT TRADITIONALLY THOUGHT OF AS “THOROUGHBRED-FRIENDLY,” LIKE WORKING CATTLE, BARREL RACING, TRAIL RIDING, AND MORE. 26 Equestrian November / December
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PHOTOS: COURTESY NEW VOCATIONS, (BOTTOM RIGHT) SUZANNE FISCHER
Looking for a New Vocation Many Thoroughbreds are retired for two reasons: they are not fast or competitive enough, or they become injured. Generally injuries don’t preclude a Thoroughbred from having some form of second career; many severely injured horses, with proper time and vet care, can go on to become trail horses or flatwork-only mounts. Thoroughbreds innately possess the drive to succeed and please, making them an ideal mount for many disciplines. While aficionados of the breed know this, it has become increasingly clear that the rest of the world needs to know that there is nothing that a Thoroughbred cannot do. From endurance, competitive trail, dressage, eventing, ranch horses, barrel racers, Pony Club mounts, lesson horses, fox hunters, trail horses, jumpers, hunters, and everything in between, there is an off-the-track Thoroughbred (OTTB) perfect for the job. Sometimes it simply takes seeing one in action to realize it! Breaking Down Barriers Steuart Pittman, founder of the Retired Racehorse Project (RRP), has long been passionate about the Thoroughbred breed. Having watched show rings around the country transition from mainly Thoroughbred competitors to various Warmblood breeds, he recognized that there was a need to remind the American public that Thoroughbreds can do so much more than simply race. Through the creation of the Retired Racehorse Project in 2010, Pittman seeks to increase demand for retired racehorses through public events, clinics, videos, and social media. The organization’s mission is to “facilitate the placement of Thoroughbred racehorses in second careers by educating the public about the history, distinctive characteristics, versatility of use, and appropriate care and training of the iconic American Thoroughbred.” In October of 2015, Pittman and the RRP hosted an event that not only reminded the nation that the Thoroughbred is an amazing breed, it knocked their socks off. The Thoroughbred Makeover proved beyond a doubt that there is truly nothing this great breed can’t do, showcasing the breed in both “traditional” Thoroughbred events and the non-traditional (think barrel racing and working cow events). All Thoroughbreds, All the Time Lexington, Ky., is renowned as the birthplace of some of the world’s greatest Thoroughbreds, and is aptly dubbed the “Thoroughbred Capital of the World.” Therefore, it was no surprise that the Breeders’ Cup, a two-day racing extravaganza that attracts the best racehorses, trainers, and owners from around the world, chose Lexington as the host of its 2015 event. Over the course of the weekend, $26 million in usef.org
purse money was awarded to winners of both dirt and turf races at the iconic Keeneland race course. In an effort to celebrate more than the two days of racing, Lexington hosted a week-long fete called the Breeders’ Cup Festival. Chocked full of everything from live musical performances, culinary shows, and special bourbon tastings, the city pulled out all the stops to show visitors and residents alike the wonders of the Bluegrass. Thoroughbreds, and their athleticism, were the key players in the kickoff event for the Breeders’ Cup Festival: The Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium. Hosted by Thoroughbred Charities of America, the inaugural Thoroughbred Makeover event was held at the Kentucky Horse Park, a venue famous for being a leading equine tourist attraction and home to some of the best horse show facilities in the nation. Designed to highlight the versatility of Thoroughbreds once they leave the track, ex-racehorses competed in three days of competition in disciplines ranging from the moreconventional show hunters, polo, dressage, show jumping, field hunter, and eventing to working ranch, competitive trail, and barrel racing. For those riders who wanted to show off their OTTB in a way that didn’t fall into a specific category, a “freestyle” category was offered. Who Could Compete The Thoroughbred Makeover was open to both professional and amateur riders alike. In order for a Thoroughbred to be eligible for the competition, it had to have a Jockey Club tattoo and have been raced or have been in race training after January 1, 2013. The horse could not have had any significant training in any discipline other than racing before January 15, 2015. This competition was designed to truly showcase what Thoroughbreds can do with minimal retraining time. Each of the nearly 200 horses that stepped in to the arenas or on to the fields of the Kentucky Horse Park impressed the judges, who included powerful names from all facets of the equine world, including Maggi Moss (Thoroughbred owner), Michael Dignelli, Bernie Traurig, and David Hopper. Each competitor had to declare the discipline in which they would compete in, earning at least one ride before the judges. The top three competitors from each discipline were then invited to ride on Sunday in the Thoroughbred Makeover Finale. Each horse competing was then pinned first, second, or third in its division. An overall winner of the entire event, aptly named “America’s Most Wanted Thoroughbred,” was then chosen from the 10 discipline winners. Over $100,000 in prize money was given out to the overall winner and to the top three winners in each discipline.
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MANY THOROUGHBREDS ARE RETIRED FOR TWO REASONS: THEY ARE NOT FAST OR COMPETITIVE ENOUGH, OR THEY BECOME INJURED.
The Results Are In The inaugural winner of this landmark event was Lindsey Partridge, a Canadian trainer who brought two horses. Her winning ride was aboard Soar, a 2007 Canadian-bred mare. Partridge brought Soar and Lionofwallstreet to compete in two divisions: the Competitive Trail division and the Freestyle division. She qualified for the finals in Competitive Trail with both horses and for the Freestyle finals with Soar. The Competitive Trail division was judged on a six-mile ride through the Park, with horses having to complete multiple obstacles like water crossings, gate openings, and other tests of a horse’s willingness and athleticism. The Freestyle division allowed Partridge to show off Soar’s bravery, movement, and willing attitude, having the mare do everything from jump, maneuverer a large ball through the arena, do a turn on the forehand in a baby pool, drag a tarp, ride while waving a flag, jump bridle-less, and more. (And who said Thoroughbreds were spooky?) In addition to outstanding competition, the Makeover boasted a myriad other options to attendees, including dozens of seminars, a Thoroughbred Marketplace, demonstrations, and an Off-Track Thoroughbred magazine launch. Though the 2015 event has set the bar high, the 2016 event promises to be even bigger and better.
Networking: The Retired Racehorse Project Founder Steuart Pittman recognized that Thoroughbred ex-racehorses needed staunch advocates and educators in both the sport and recreational riding arenas. Begun with one Racehorse Training Symposium in 2009, the organization now hosts multiple events a year in various locations, including the Trainer Challenge, the 100 Day Thoroughbred Challenge, Thoroughbreds For All Fair Hill, and the Thoroughbred Makeover, all designed to raise awareness of the versatility of horses once their racing careers are over. Recognizing that Thoroughbreds retired from racing remain at a disadvantage in the marketplace compared to their other breed counterparts, the RRP created a state-by-state Resource Directory to connect racetracks to the people, organizations, and businesses that provide training and placement services for Thoroughbreds that retire from racing. retiredracehorseproject.org
Organizations That Serve the Racing Industry While the RRP is not the only organization servicing ex-racehorses, it is unique in how it helps them. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of organizations throughout the country to help retiring racehorses that are leaving the track, and each has a special approach. Some organizations focus on rescuing Thoroughbreds that have been abused or neglected; others focus strictly on horses that are finishing their racing careers. No matter their method, the end goal is the same: to give horses that are finishing their racing careers a chance at a new vocation.
Adoption: New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program Created in 1992 on a farm in Laura, Ohio, New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program was formed to rehabilitate, retrain, and re-home horses retiring from the track. The program has homed over 5,500 horses since its inception, and now has facilities in Ohio, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania. This program focuses on taking horses directly from over 40 racetracks, providing rehabilitative services to care for any injuries or issues, and instilling basic retraining before adopting the horses out to carefully screened, qualified homes. newvocations.org
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Rescue: Akindale Thoroughbred Rescue Founded in 2006, Akindale Thoroughbred Rescue (ATBR) has rescued more than 100 horses from auction houses where they are destined for slaughter. Begun by life-long horse lover and philanthropist John Hettinger, ATBR operates out of his 1,000-acre farm in Pawling, N.Y. Recently, ATBR has expanded its mission to provide a safe haven for Thoroughbreds no longer able to race by taking in horses that, after some retraining, will be able to be adopted out to qualified owners. akindalehorserescue.org Combo: CANTER USA A combination of an adoption, rescue, and networking program, the Communications Alliance to Network Thoroughbred Ex-Racehorses (CANTER) provides retiring racehorses with opportunities for new careers by directly connecting those who have racehorses that are retiring with people who are looking for a new mount. Founded in 1997 and having homed over 20,000 Thoroughbreds to date, CANTER has affiliate organizations in many regions and states. Run completely by volunteers, CANTER helps owners and trainers market their horses by taking photos and videos of the animal and posting the information on the CANTER website. Interested parties then contact the seller directly to obtain more information or purchase the horse. canterusa.org While the Thoroughbred adoption, rescue, and networking organizations may have different modes of operation, each functions for one main reason: to help the retired Thoroughbred racehorse. Each entity that helps these horses transition from a life on the track to a successful second career is helping in two very important ways: making sure these athletes are safe, and educating the public that these animals have so much left to give post racing. That’s a wire-to-wire win. ■ Sarah Coleman usef.org
PHOTOS: MEGAN STAPLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
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‘tis the
Season Giving of
The holiday season is upon us! This time of year inspires us to take stock of our good fortune and to empathize with those less fortunate. For some of us, giving back means writing a check to a charitable organization(s) whose cause resounds with us and whose mission is identifiable and measurable. Others choose to volunteer time and sweat, or gifts in kind. For all of us, donating a part of our personal assets — tangible or intangible — reaps a reward. The following members of our equestrian community describe the charities that are dear to them and the importance of giving back.
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PHOTO: NACHO OLANO
Laura Kraut Royal Palm Beach, Fla.
thebrooke.org justworldinternational.org
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lympic show jumper and international success Laura Kraut is an ambassador for The Brooke ( thebrooke.org ) and for JustWorld International ( justworldinternational.org ). Established in 1934, The Brooke is an international animal welfare organization dedicated to improving the lives of working horses, donkeys, and mules in some of the world’s poorest communities. The Brooke provides veterinary care and educational programs on animal health in Africa, Asia, and Latin America where these animals, as beasts of burden, are an integral part of local economies. Kraut and her partner, legendary English rider Nick Skelton, reside in England during the summer. The Brooke is based in England and approached the pair to be ambassadors for the charity. “It is really an interesting and worthwhile cause, particularly because living in the world we live in, you don’t think about the lack of knowledge and horse care.” Kraut works to promote name recognition and knowledge about the group’s mission through social media and personal endorsement. The Brooke’s mission is to free working horses, donkeys, and mules from suffering, and “was an easy cause to get behind” for Kraut. Kraut’s involvement with JustWorld International began when her son, Bobby, was very young. Just World International is devoted to breaking the cycle of poverty and helping children thrive through education initiatives. “JustWorld helps communities improve their way of life with education, especially for the children. Bobby was little and it really hit home for me.” Kraut acknowledges the superlative job that JustWorld International founder, Jessica Newman, has done toward growing the charity. “She does such an amazing job and is so visible that it is easy to help with it.” The organization has successfully linked the equestrian world with humanitarian efforts. November / December
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R
eining superstar Mandy McCutcheon supports numerous charities from her family-based business in Aubrey, Texas. McCutcheon was the first woman and non-professional to be inducted into the National Reining Horse Hall of Fame, the first woman to surpass $2 million in earnings, and the first female reining athlete to win a Team Gold medal at the FEI World Equestrian Games. With her husband and fellow top rider, Tom, McCutcheon has a history of supporting charities that benefit members of the equestrian community who are in need. For years, the McCutcheons were involved with the Equestrian Aid Foundation ( equestrianaidfoundation.org ). As stated on their website, “The mission of the Equestrian Aid Foundation is to provide grant-based assistance to horsemen and equine-related professionals suffering from illness or catastrophic injuries.” From this experience, the McCutcheons focused their philanthropic efforts closer to home in championing the Reining Horse Sports Foundation ( rhsf.com). Established in 1999 by the National Reining Horse Association, the Foundation is dedicated to development and enhancement of the sport of reining worldwide. Through its Dale Wilkinson Memorial Crisis Fund, the Foundation assists members who have experienced catastrophe and demonstrate financial need. As McCutcheon explains, “Anything can happen to any of us at any time. When we are fortunate enough to be in the position where we can help, we do.” The McCutcheons donate time, services, and gifts in kind, such as lessons to the Foundation fundraising events. A mother of two, McCutcheon also donates gift certificates and goods to families at her children’s school. She consults with the school counselor to ascertain which families in the school are most in need and anonymously gives holiday gifts to them. 34 Equestrian November / December
Mandy McCutcheon Aubrey, Texas
equestrianaidfoundation.org
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Rebecca Hart
PHOTOS: ALLEYN EVANS FOR SHANNON BRINKMAN, SUSANJSTICKLE.COM
Unionville, Pa.
sp-foundation.org specialolympicspa.org
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S
even-time U.S. Para-Equestrian Dressage National Champion and Paralympian Rebecca Hart supports two charities that are intrinsic to her life. Born with familial spastic paraplegia, causing muscle atrophy and lack of control from the waist down, Hart is driven to help those with handicaps. She is a donor and public speaker for the Spastic Paraplegia Foundation ( sp-foundation.org ) that supports research on the condition and assistance for those afflicted. A rare and little known condition, Spastic Paraplegia is related to better known conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, for which there is no therapy or cure. Hart provides financial support as well as personal support for fellow sufferers. “I want to let people know that they don’t have to let their disability define their lives. You are not your disability; your life is still yours.” Despite her busy schedule as an international Para- Equestrian, Hart makes herself available as part of a support network for the Foundation. The Special Olympics of Pennsylvania ( specialolympics.org ), Hart’s hometown state, is her other philanthropic focus. Hart is dedicated to the equestrian portion of the event, serving as supporter, mentor, and judge. As a Para- Equestrian, her sport involves riders with physical disabilities. Through the Special Olympics, she is able to support riders with cognitive challenges. “I know what riding does for me on a physical, mental, and emotional level, and I know that it helps on the cognitive side.” Hart is intimately connected to the therapeutic relationship between horses and disabilities and endeavors to provide the same opportunity to others. Hart is grateful to those who have helped her to become a Paralympian and seven-time National Champion. “I have been able to succeed at such a high level in my own sport because people have supported me and helped me along the way, like Cherry Knoll Farm and Margaret Duprey. I am who I am today because of all of the people who have supported me. This is a way of paying it forward.” November / December
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F
ive-time eventing Olympian Phillip Dutton and his wife, Evie, combine their formidable energies to support local and national charities. They dedicate their efforts to the growth of equestrian sport through financial gifts and volunteer hours to the United States Equestrian Federation and the United States Equestrian Team Foundation. “I support charities that are associated with my sport and livelihood,” explains Dutton. He lends his expertise and celebrity to promote and develop many events, including Plantation Field International, Fair Hill International, Millbrook Horse Trials, Southern Pines Horse Trials, and Surefire Horse Trials. In turn, these events not only build the equestrian industry, but they sustain the beautiful parks in which they are run. On a local level, the Duttons are involved with the eminent Stroud Water Research Center that endeavors ‘to enhance knowledge and stewardship of freshwater systems through global research, education, and restoration.’ The Stroud Water Research Center in Avondale, Pa., is internationally acclaimed for its research on the ecology of streams, rivers, and their watersheds. ( stroudcenter.org ). In addition, the Duttons are a force behind the Upland Country Day School ( uplandcds.org ), the bucolic school attended by their twins. While Evie lends her ideas and energy to the Board of Trustees, Phillip is an enthusiastic fundraiser and proponent of the school. The Duttons are continuing a legacy of giving back. The tradition of charitable work began in Australia for Phillip, whose parents were active members of the community and local Pony Club. Evie’s family has a very strong philanthropic presence, which she endeavors to continue. 36 Equestrian November / December
Phillip Dutton West Grove, Pa.
stroudcenter.org
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F Tom Brennan
PHOTOS: MIKE MCNALLY, SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY
Charles Town, W.Va.
For more information, contact Brennan at: tbrennan@whfonline.com
or hunter rider, trainer, and USEF judge Tom Brennan, philanthropic inspiration is borne from personal tragedy. In 2011, part-time employee and friend Claire Mawdsley was killed in an automobile accident while driving home from the Middleburg Classic Horse Show. Mawdsley, a member of the equestrian team at Virginia Intermont College, was dedicated to two things: academics and horses. She excelled in the equine studies program at Virginia Intermont and planned to pursue her dream of a career in the horse business. To honor and promote the ideals embodied by Claire Mawdsley, Brennan established the Claire Mawdsley Scholarship and Rider Recognition Program at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show. The program recognizes the achievement of full-time students participating in the Junior Hunter divisions at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show, an elite qualifying indoor show. Brennan’s goal is to recognize the notable accomplishments of juniors who successfully juggle the demands of full-time high school and riding. He contrasts the lifestyles of “average” junior riders who attend brick-and-mortar schools and ride on a limited basis with “professional” junior riders who have tutors or attend cyber school and have more time to dedicate to riding. Brennan explains, “I want to promote participation in the junior hunter divisions at the indoor shows. Sometimes the kids who are well-rounded and have other interests and responsibilities, namely school, don’t participate at that level because they don’t think that they have a chance. I want kids to feel that if they have done enough to qualify for indoors, they belong there.” Enrollment in the program is free and points are tracked in all of the over fences classes in each section of Junior Hunters at the show. The riders who accumulate the most points in their section are then awarded Championship and Reserve Championship honors in center ring at the Harrisburg arena. The winners receive a cache of beautiful gifts donated by various equestrian-based companies and a financial scholarship to be used at an institution of higher learning. The Claire Mawdsley Scholarship fund is funded by private donations that Brennan solicits year round. He is inspired to reward the accomplishments of the less-celebrity junior riders because he recognizes himself in them. “I was that average kid, as were so many prominent leaders in our industry. I want to broaden equestrian sports and hope to grow it from the base.” He believes that everyone is responsible for giving back to the industry that supports them. For more information, contact Brennan at tbrennan@whfonline.com. ■ Sissy Wickes
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Support your Team at the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games
Visit the U.S. Equestrian Team Registry Help Our Athletes Win Medals and Stand on the Podium When you choose a symbolic gift from the Registry you will make a huge impact on the success of OUR EQUESTRIAN TEAM IN RIO
Go to USET.org/registry and make your gift today!
38 Equestrian November / December
usef.org Photos by Rebecca Walton and Mary Adelaide Brakenridge for Phelps Media Group, SusanJStickle.com
A
Moveable FEAST
Mary Cox, an equestrian interior designer, transformed Dr. Beth Glosten’s barn aisle into a welcoming venue for a moveable feast using tableware for the photos shoot that was custom-designed by Lizi Ruch. “We decided it would be fun to add a modern twist on the traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Since farm to table is the new revolution in eating, what better way to present this concept than with an elegant dinner setting at Dr. Beth Glosten’s lovely barn? We chose Dr. Glosten, author of The Riding Doctor, not only because her barn is wonderful, but she is a passionate advocate for slow food and grows a majority of what she eats on her farm. We transformed her barn aisle into a welcoming venue for a moveable feast using tableware for the photo shoot that was custom-designed by Lizi Ruch. The centerpiece and tapered candles were kept minimal since we did not want to detract from the beautiful, ornate dinnerware. If your place settings are simple in composition, you have creative license to add more pumpkins or greens on the table. But remember don’t be afraid to ‘think outside the barn’ and incorporate seasonal bounty or objects from nature like branches, winter berries, etc. Don’t be afraid to be creative and add your own traditional touches to this version of a quintessential American holiday. Oh and don’t forget - if you actually host your farm-to-table dinner at your barn, a minimum of two horses should join the festivities (Grand Prix Dressage Gold medalist is optional) !” ■
■ Mary Cox
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1
3
2 1.
All you will need is a simple farm table, but if you don’t have one, a rustic table can be created from a weathered palette placed atop some saw horses.
2.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match dining chairs. Not enough seating? Well then it’s time to bring down some hay bales from the loft and add some decorative equestrian pillows (the ones pictured are from equestrian-interiors.com).
PHOTO: SOUNDVIEW PHOTOGRAPHY
3.
Some small white lights (from Target) added a festive, but soft, ambience (the only problem we ran into was keeping DG from eating them!). We placed battery-operated candles in various sizes throughout the space (Costco or Pier 1).
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4.
A clear vase served as our center piece (from my local T.J. Maxx, a whopping $4.99) filled with gourds, oranges, apples, seasonal vegetables, fruits, and artificial berries.
5
5. 6.
I dug into my very large box of bits and used a variety of snaffle bits as napkins holders.
The miniature pumpkins with taper candles (from our favorite dollar store) are a simple, inexpensive way to add some Fall color to your table.
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7
PHOTOS: SOUNDVIEW PHOTOGRAPHY
7.
To bring a little ambience and warmth to the barn we hung some old stirrup irons with an assortment of random reins. The rein was secured to a beam with command hooks to minimize the damage to Dr. Glosten’s barn. Fishing line was strung at the end of the rein buckle and then tied on to the hook. (Because this is a friend’s new barn, we did not want to leave our mark, but if you don’t care about some extra holes, just hang it with a nail; put in at an angle or cup hook!) Each stirrup iron has a battery operated light. They come in a box of six and can be purchased at Pier 1.
8.
The mini lanterns are also from Pier 1. The same concept with the fishing line can be used to hang the lanterns. (Make sure you use a heavy weight fishing line.)
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8
Mary Cox is an equestrian interior designer who has accumulated a ridiculous amount of tack. She recently launched Horse of a Different Color, a classic equestrian home décor line equestrianinteriors.com and welcomes your ideas & creative solutions for incorporating that used tack into your home décor. Dinner Place Settings were generously loaned for this photo shoot by Artfully Equestrian. artfullyequestrian.com Dr. Beth Glosten owns Rider Pilates, LLC riderpilates.com and is author of The Riding Doctor: A Prescription for Healthy, Balanced, and Beautiful Riding, Now and for Years to Come
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Happy Horsey Holidays!
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I Love My Horse K A ST E L D E NM A RK SUN SH IRT S
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What’s Next Spring Issue The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Land Rover is the United States’ premier eventing competition. Equestrian Magazine talks to Mick Costello, builder of the cross-country course, about the process involved in putting the pristine track together. For fans attending the RK3DE, we’ll provide readers with the Equestrian Magazine Spectators’ Guide to restaurants, shops, and attractions around Lexington, Ky. The Interscholastic Equestrian Association Hunt Seat & Western National Finals will take place in Lexington April 20-24. We’ll go behind-the-scenes of the Finals to learn what it takes to become a champion at the event. Don’t forget to check out the iPad version available through the iTunes App store.
A fresh approach to classic equestrian style.
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48 Equestrian November / December
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