SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
AUST: $12.95 ISSUE #5 ISSN 2652-4635 ISSN 2652-4635
9 772652 9 772652
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David Cameron Jumping with heart Delivering Dreams Meet our finalists Lost your confidence We’ll help you find it Carolyn James Boosting dressage scores Megan Jones The equestrian motherhood balance
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Editor Amanda McWhinnie amanda@equestrianhub.com.au Advertising Enquiries Joanne Conyers 0448 442 220 joanne.conyers@equestrianhub.com.au The Saddle Hub Sales Enquiries Shae Herwig info@equestrianhub.com.au
Website/Subscriptions www.equestrianhub.com.au Published by Equestrian Hub PO Box 13, Tintenbar NSW 2478 0414 760 067 info@equestrianhub.com.au www.equestrianhub.com.au Follow Equestrian Hub equesthub
On the Cover Eight-time Olympian Andrew Hoy and Vassily de Lassos delivered a faultless cross country round at Tokyo 2020 (Image by Libby Law Photography). Magazine Layout Kimberley Bloom Design www.kimberleybloom.com.au kim@kimberleybloom.com.au
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2 | EQUESTRIAN HUB SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
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Contents 4 7 8 20 24 28 40 44 48 53 54 60
Our Contributors From the Horse’s Mouth Spotlight on David Cameron Brister’s Brief Ask an Expert: Rebecca Ham Delivering Dreams: Our finalists Feature: The Beauty of Balance Vet Vibes: Laminitis Feature: Creating Confidence European Trends: Mountain Horse Boots Nutrition: Feeding Cool Fuel Feature: It’s a Balancing Act
ISSUE #5 • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
66 74 78 84 91 92 98 106 108 110 112
Saddle Up: When to Call the Fitter Life After Racing Horse Breed: The Haflinger Feature: Spring Wardrobe Saddle Review: Prestige X-Helen On My Tackbox: Improving your scores Training Tips: From the Ground Up Young Rider: Bella Plumridge Perfect Partners: Scott Hergest & Spinnin’ Whiz 20 Questions with Cody Rawson-Harris Stockists E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 3
O U R C O N T R I B U TO R S
Enya Crockford A rider for most of her life, Enya has been a qualified coach since her teens. She's trained numerous horses up through the eventing levels and is currently working with her sweet but opinionated homebred mare. Always an important issue, she tackles rider biomechanics and offers insightful advice on becoming a more balanced and effective rider.
Amanda Mac As editor of Equestrian Hub Magazine, Amanda’s two long-standing passions, one for horses and the other for writing, come together perfectly. In this issue she talks to top show jumper David Cameron about country life and beyond, and investigates some great gains for OTT Thoroughbreds courtesy of a group of dedicated enthusiasts in Coffs Harbour NSW.
Ken Faulkner One of Australia's first Natural Horsemanship clinicians, Ken started teaching some 35 years ago. He’s presented clinics around the globe, is an EQUITANA regular, and along with Kathy Stewart Faulkner, runs the Australian Horsemanship program. In this issue, he takes a look at groundwork and its importance for both you and your horse.
Jessica Morton Jessica is a dual national New Zealand-Italian freelance journalist, equestrian traveller and writer. Currently based in Tuscany, she’s perfectly positioned to bring us the very latest in European equestrian innovations and trends – and reckons that with the Mountain Horse Spring River Boot collection, there’s no excuse not to be fashion forward from the feet up.
Claudia Brodtke A communications professional, Claudia has found a great way to combine her fascination with both writing and the equestrian sports through her contributions to the Equestrian Hub Magazine. Outside her professional life, she’s most likely to be spotted enjoying downtime with her horses. In this issue, she chats to our talented Young Rider, Bella Plumridge.
Rebecca Ham Rebecca earned a degree in Equine Science in 2006 and taught equine nutrition at NMIT in Melbourne in their diploma and degree programs before joining the KER team in 2014. Bec is a dressage rider, equine sports therapist, EA and PCAV coach, and in this issue shares some of her extensive knowledge in ‘Ask an Expert’.
4 | EQUESTRIAN HUB SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
Charlie Brister Regular columnist Charlie is an all-round horseman and an expert in retraining problem horses. He also coaches riders in the art of cross country, show jumping and dressage. In Part One of a two part fitness series, he offers some expert thoughts on how to prepare your equine athlete for the show jumping ring.
Dr Doug English A veterinarian and long-time turmeric researcher, Doug completed his Bachelor of Veterinary Science at the University of Queensland in 1974. He’s well-known throughout Australia for his work in the equine industry and is a long-time Equine Veterinarians Australia member. For the very latest on laminitis, based on up to the minute research, don’t miss his informative article.
O U R C O N T R I B U TO R S
Christine Armishaw Christine is a horse trainer, coach and passionate eventing and jumping rider. A Kiwi girl based in NSW, she teaches others not just how to ride, but also how to understand their horse. She delves deep into restoring the confidence you may have lost, before catching up with star eventer and busy mother, Megan Jones.
Larissa Bilston Larissa, BAgrSc (Hons I) is the Nutritionist for Farmalogic, where she developed Equine Vit&Min and the Farmalogic Equine range. Her extensive experience is highly regarded by trainers, riders and owners who understand the importance of good nutrition. In this issue, she explains why nutrition influences hot behaviour and what you can do to minimise the problem.
Megan Jones One of Australia's top event riders, Megan began riding at the age of five and continued though Pony Club before bursting onto the international scene at the 2003 World Cup Final. She won Silver at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and has some fascinating insights on motherhood, plus a few strategies to help with the equestrian/family life balance.
Cody Rawson Harris A second generation film animal trainer, Cody has trained horses for the big and small screen for over 30 years. He’s also successfully produced horses for every Olympic discipline, expertly works horses in-hand and under saddle, and is an exceptionally talented carriage driver. Turn to 20 Questions for a glimpse into Cody’s sometimes unusual world.
Suzy Jarratt Suzy has lengthy and varied form on the board as a writer and presenter. She works for several Australian and overseas companies and is the author of three published books. Two years ago she won an international award for equestrian journalism, and in this issue takes an in-depth look at the remarkable and easy to love Haflinger.
Sonia Caeiro Alvarez Sonia is a journalist, editor and writing workshop facilitator. She’s had a lifelong love affair with horses, although sadly does not have any and so lives out her passion vicariously through her pony-owning friends. She recently went western and caught up with outstanding reiner Scott Hergest and his remarkable Quarter Horse partner Spinnin’ Whiz.
Carolyn James Carolyn has spent many years competing, judging and coaching, first in the UK and then in Australia where she’s lived since 1980. She has judged at many prestigious dressage events both at home and internationally, and was instrumental in establishing junior development clinics. Passionate about the sport, she shares some expert pointers on improving your dressage scores.
Kathryn Sullivan-Butt Kathryn Sullivan-Butt is The Saddlefitter. An EA and AHRC coach with over 20 years’ experience, she is nationally and internationally trained and accredited with the Society of Master Saddlers, the ASFA, and Equinology. She discusses saddle fitting and what to look for so you’ll know whether or not to call the saddle fitter.
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 5
TAKING APPLICATIONS NOW To find out more, visit our website equestrianhub.com.au 6 | EQUESTRIAN HUB SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021
Photo: Rodney’s Photography
Delivering Dreams Sponsorship
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
Have you ever wondered if you are
From the Horse’s Mouth
symmetrical in the saddle? Are you hindering or supporting your horse through your position? All is revealed when Enya Crockford talks to Natasha Gunston about the importance of biomechanics. Once you’ve read this article, flip across to Saddle Up. Your balance also affects your saddle, but
With Fiona Todd
there are other factors to consider and Kathryn Sullivan-Butt explains what to
I
look for so we know when to call the
and gloom of COVID.
dressage scores, and we can expect
As the Olympics wrap up, we congratulate
to see some massive improvements
all our equestrians but pay special tribute
from everyone once events are up and
to the always inspiring Andrew Hoy
running again!
with our cover. Andrew reminds us of
Coming back into riding after an injury,
the importance of dreaming, believing
childbirth, or some other life event
and achieving. Throw in bucket loads
can be a massive mental challenge.
of hard work and you can go wherever
Christine Armishaw helps us mount back
you want. I confess to more than a few
up with confidence, and even puts a
goose bumps as I listened to his interview
song in our hearts.
’m beyond excited to introduce you
saddle fitter.
to the latest issue of Equestrian Hub
Combine all of this with Carolyn James
Magazine, a bright light in the doom
great Tackbox article on improving your
with Channel 7 after winning silver. He
We check out the gorgeous Haflinger,
totally encapsulated our ethos here at
European correspondent Jess Morton
Equestrian Hub when he said that dreams
looks at boots, and we give you the
where achievable if you follow them and
heads up on spring fashions (horse
surround yourself with good people.
related, naturally). A happy Saddle
Which of course, brings us to Delivering
Hub customer reviews the Prestige
Dreams – and in this issue we announce
X-Helen and this issue’s inspiring Young Rider is Bella Plumridge.
our ten finalists. Over the next few weeks, we’ll also introduce you to them
Megan Jones proves she is
on our social pages, and ask you to
superhuman as she gives us the
vote for who you think should receive
heads up on combining an equestrian
Faulkner explains why groundwork
life with motherhood. Rebecca Ham
is vital for you and your horse. Our
explains how to keep condition on a
Perfect Partners are none other than
our Readers’ Choice award. Also, a big thank you to Amanda Ross, another home grown Olympian, for her words of encouragement to everyone who applied. Champion show jumper David Cameron
Thoroughbred: how much protein is appropriate, and importantly, how to
Life After Racing celebrates the versatility of OTT horses, and Ken
Scott Hergest and Spinnin’ Whiz, and to round us out Charlie asks 20 questions of Cody Rawson-Harris.
talks to Amanda Mac about Krome,
avoid ‘fizz’, while still talking nutrition,
growing up in the country, and the
Larissa Bilston discusses the effects
favourite tipple, relax and enjoy! Plus,
power of following your dreams. I’m
of feed, and whether you might
remember to jump over to the VIP area
unknowingly be contributing to hot
to gain extra insights, stories, hints and
always staggered at the way the Universe delivers! Still on jumping, Charlie Brister lends a hand to get our horses show jump ready: how to improve fitness and strength, how
or anxious behavior. And with spring well and truly upon us, resident vet Dr
It’s a cracker issue, so pour your
tips. Stay happy, stay safe … and dream big dreams.
Doug looks at laminitis. What are the
often to train, and the mix your horse
symptoms? What are the risks? What
needs to achieve the desired outcomes.
effect does grazing have? E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 7
David and Finch Farm Spruce at the Sydney Royal (image by Australian Jumping).
D
avid Cameron is not long home from a Queensland show run. One of his current team, Alan
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111 Z, came third in his first World Cup at Gatton, which David says is “pretty good”
Following your heart
– a bit of an understatement I think! Next stop was the Caboolture World Cup Show and an exciting round in the 2021 Australian Jumping Teams League (AJTL). Similar to the internationally renowned Global Champions League, the AJTL, which has some serious prize money on offer, is a four-round competition for
David Cameron is well known in Australian show jumping circles as a talented rider and an all-round nice guy. AMANDA MAC spoke to him about his early life in country NSW and the events that expanded his horizons.
corporate sponsored teams. Besides David, the Coolmore Peachester team includes two riders who train at the Cameron’s Redleaf Lodge Stables. Managed by Tallara Cameron, David’s wife, the team jumped
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some good rounds and were coming
And what they did was to ride all the
When you dig deeper, it’s not hard
third until David didn’t quite clear
way through Pony Club, while giving the
to see why, despite the variety of
the challenging Geopro Joker fence,
local competition a run for their money
equestrian influences in David’s
bringing their overall placing to seventh.
at Agricultural shows. “I think one year
formative years, it was jumping that
“I didn’t love the Joker idea before that
we did 32 Ag shows all told. We were
won him over. There were a number of
happened, now I like it a lot less!” he
pretty lucky because many of the shows
able show jumpers in the Forbes area,
says with a wry laugh.
were within two-and-a-half-hours of us.
not to mention the calibre of riders –
Unfortunate confrontations with Jokers
So there were a couple of really good
aside, David’s jumping career has
show runs, as well as the Royals and
been stellar. But then, he’s had a bit
World Cups.”
of practice. Raised in Forbes NSW,
Grant Hughes, Lindsay Ball, and Janelle Waters, for example – who were all competing at the same shows as young David. “There was a lot of great show
Involvement with the horse world
jumping, and we saw that growing up.
doesn’t end with David’s immediate
They were really excellent role models
family. His aunt, Helen Page, a well-
and that inspired you to want to do it
known racehorse trainer now based on
yourself,” he says. And let’s not forget
the Gold Coast, was at the time training
the twins’ peer group, a talented crop of
out of Warwick Farm. A lot of horses
young riders who all jumped well, and
NSW, and had a lot to do with Pony Club
came David’s way through Helen, and
were the source of both firm friendships
and the implementation of the NSW
from Central West Thoroughbreds.
as well as spirited competition.
coaching program.
“We were forever trying out off the
One of those friends was future
track Thoroughbreds,” he recalls – and
Olympian Pete McMahon. Only two
there’s nothing like variety for improving
years older than David, Pete and his
your skills.
brothers grew up at Tullamore, just 80
his family were enthusiastically horse focussed. His father was a successful show jumper, his mother rode dressage and trained young horses. David’s grandfather, Bob Cameron, coached around the Central West and throughout
Impressive family credentials to be sure – and they served David and Ian, his twin brother, well. While the twins attended any and all of the coaching clinics held in the area, it was their parents who were a continuous source
Tallara and Alan 111 Z, trotting up for his first World Cup Qualifier at Gatton in June (Image by The J’Taime).
of support, encouragement, and influence. “Mum and Dad gave us a very sound foundation in horsemanship, and although we didn’t realise it at the time, that was very, very useful,” David says. Their grandfather Bob also coached the boys on occasion, but his most notable influence was in supplying them with a string of good horses, starting with their first ponies, Mouse and Powder Puff, who, David recalls, was “bomb proof, jumped, sported, and won heaps of ribbons.” Bob later swapped the ponies for two Galloways, followed by larger horses some years on. “So the first horses we rode were ones that Grandpa gave us,” David explains. “He never owned them though. He sourced them from people he knew. And looking back, that was the reason we started to ride and kept riding. Everyone’s got to have a first good horse that they like, and Grandpa providing us with those early horses was really vital to what we did.” E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 9
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David steers Tony Norman's Nicolette to victory in the 2016 Showcase of Show Jumping Silver Final, (Image by Allira Fontana Photography).
kilometres from Forbes. “So we did a
after Krome and learning that he wasn’t
But it was while David was at uni that
heap of stuff together. We’d often take
in work, offered to take him on. Ricki
a twist of fate cemented his future
just the one truck to go to the big shows.
agreed and later that year David took
direction as an equestrian. He had
There were the McMahon boys, a couple
him on a show run in Victoria. Long story
been enjoying playing rugby and was
of other guys who were quite good, Ian,
short, Krome jumped his way into bigger
hoping to develop as a player when he
and myself, and we all rode in the Sydney
classes and David bought him.
badly injured his knee. “That ruined any
Royal, the Juniors in Melbourne and the World Cup shows. I think the fact that we were such a tight group helped us stay in the sport,” David says.
But here’s the thing: when David was much younger, he remembers being at a show where he saw Ricki riding Krome. “I told my parents that one day, I was
chance of a rugby career. I think in the back of my mind I had always wanted to ride professionally at some stage. So when the injury happened I was like OK, well I'm really going to throw myself into
David’s first World Cup was with
going to have a horse that looked just
Warmblood Krome. Just 18 years old
like him. So it was quite amazing that
at the time, he attributes the horse’s
he ended up at our place, where he
Blessed with access to the family farm
arrival in his life as another factor in
eventually retired and was 30-years-old
and paddocks aplenty, David began
keeping him keen - and how the pair got
when we had to put him down last year.
trialling different horses with the idea of
together is an interesting story in itself.
He was the sort of horse that makes you
building a team. However, as with other
Originally owned by Ricki Cox, Krome
want to ride because he was scopey
rural areas, opportunities to become a
was ridden and jumped by Ricki up until
and brave. He was a pretty good horse
professional rider in Forbes were limited,
the arrival of her daughters. With two
– everyone needs a horse like him.”
so he was in some doubt as to whether
young people to care for, she could no longer attend many shows, plus Krome
While David was studying – a four
the horses.”
that particular dream was feasible.
year teaching degree at Charles Sturt
During the team building phase he
University – there wasn’t much time for
taught first at Trundle Central School,
riding, and competitions took a back
followed by several years at Parks High
seat. However, besides Krome there
School – jobs that with their regular
The horse was on an extended sojourn
were always other horses at home, so
holidays and good hours worked in
in the paddock when David ran into
he kept his hand in with a few shows
well with David’s equestrian pursuits.
Ricki at the Bathurst Show. He asked
during the holiday breaks.
“I employed twin girls to work alternate
tended to be cold backed and was a little tricky, requiring more time than she could afford.
10 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 11
S P OT L I G H T
days for me. So that helped me balance the horses and my job. I used to get home and ride four horses in the afternoon, often riding past nightfall.” By now I’m curious to know at what point David decided that turning professional might be viable, but apparently there
I remember one day she said, ‘I’ve either got to move to Forbes or you've got to move to Sydney, and I'm not moving to Forbes’. So there wasn't really an option! he definitely didn’t want to live in Forbes
In need of work, David approached a
long-term. So now with a clear-cut
number of schools but with the first term
incentive to move, he applied for a job
already underway, jobs were thin on
at Barker College on Sydney’s North
the ground. Now with nothing to lose,
Shore, and got through to the last round.
he decided to see if he could match
relationship. She was living and working
The college indicated their strong
what he would otherwise have earned
in Sydney, while David was just under
interest and David, thinking he had the
from casual teaching by working with
400 kilometres away in Forbes.
job, resigned from Parks just before the
the horses that quite a few people were
“I remember one day she said, ‘I’ve
job at Barker unexpectedly fell through.
either got to move to Forbes or you've
But with logistics for the move to Sydney
got to move to Sydney, and I'm not
give it another term, and by the end
already in progress, the die was cast.
of that year I’d decided to keep going.
The couple rented five acres at Glenorie,
If I’d stayed in Forbes, I don’t think I’d
some 45 kilometres north-west of the
ever have made enough money out
But that said, he admits that although
city, and with both an arena and yards it
of horses. But when you’re around a
unsure of where he did want to settle,
suited them perfectly.
bigger population, there's a lot more
was no moment of sudden revelation. It unfolded through a process that was far more organic. David was seeing Tallara – who he’d met at the Bega World Cup – in what was a fairly long distance
moving to Forbes’. So there wasn't really an option!” David laughs.
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asking him to ride. The experiment was a success. “Then I thought I'd
S P OT L I G H T
opportunity to ride professionally,” he
right away? Tricky if you happened to be
changed his price,” David says. “I feel
says. Nonetheless, David acknowledges
teaching in a classroom! But David, now
he did us a huge favour getting into
that he probably wouldn’t have taken
working for himself, was able to oblige
this place, and we're very grateful to
the leap to turning professional had it
– and that was the start of nine months
both him and Lesley for doing that.”
not been for Tallara’s support: “She was
filming for Wild Boys.
The couple celebrated their 10-year
always very confident and positive about
Other projects followed, including Pirates
anniversary at Redleaf this year.
me going along that road."
of the Caribbean. “That was great fun.
In 2014 and 2015 David claimed the
And another unexpected source of
The stunt was for the film’s opening
title of Australian Senior Show Jumping
income was about to materialise. Not
scene. Four or five guys were riding
Champion, a hotly contested and hard
12 horses all in harness, and a lot of
fought victory on the Martin family
preparation was needed,” David recalls.
owned mare RR Dyranta. Add to that
long after he’d relocated to Sydney, a friend gave David’s details to Grahame Ware, the horse master for many of the films, TV series and commercials shot
“I’ve learned a lot from Grahame over the years, he’s a fantastic horseman.”
Champion Part 1 at the Sydney Royal plus several World Cup wins, and
in Australia. Grahame eventually got in
So if you happen to notice someone
they were in contention for the 2016
touch with David, asking him to come
looking suspiciously like David trotting
Rio Olympics. David took the mare to
out to his property for a trial ride. At the
across the screen in productions like
Europe, but after just two shows she
time Grahame was involved in Channel
Underbelly, Australia the Story of Us,
suffered a suspensory injury that ended
7’s period drama Wild Boys and very
Thor Ragnarok, or in the not too distant
their campaign. “We put her in foal over
shortly after the trial, David received an
future, Marvel’s Shang Chi, you now
there, brought her back to Australia
urgent phone call: it was the first day
know why!
and eventually retired her. She’s now
of filming and Grahame’s usual riders
And then an exciting opportunity
a brood mare at Redleaf and it’s good
were all out of action, could David come
popped up. David and Tallara were
to have her in the back paddock. I've
firm friends with show jumper Julia
actually got the filly we bred while we
Hargreaves. In fact, David had ridden
were in Europe. She’s been broken and
horses from Copabella Sporthorses,
I’ve just started with her, so that's pretty
the Hargreaves family owned stud, for
exciting,” he adds.
Julia’s mother Lesley. Julia was living at
Missing selection for the Olympics must
Over the oxer with Rowan Willis’ Wellington Grey Goose at Florida’s World Equestrian Centre (Image by Andrew Ryback).
Redleaf Lodge, another family property, when she decided to give the London Olympics a shot – so would David and Tallara like to rent Redleaf? “At the time that seemed pretty unachievable. We were renting five acres with 13 horses, and here we were thinking of moving to Redleaf with 42 acres and the capacity for 40 horses! But we really wanted to do it, so we went for it,” David tells me. And it was a great decision, even though it represented a steep increase in rent and the couple were well and truly out of their depth, they loved the
have been pretty devastating, and I’m wondering what it takes to come back from such a significant disappointment. For David, it’s looking ahead for the next opportunity: “There’s no point dwelling on it. You look at the team you've got and decide how to go forward from there. You have to either produce the young horses you already have, or put owners together to buy others.” David and Tallara married in 2017 (his greatest triumph to date he tells me), and the couple are loving life at Redleaf,
property. So nothing daunted, David
a property that for them has been a
asked Alan Hargreaves for a purchase
“game changer”. They’ve fine-tuned the
price and first option to buy. Alan agreed
way they run the stables, and many of
and for the next six or so years, the
their clients are now based there. “It’s
couple struggled to build the necessary
a beautiful property with great facilities
deposit, selling several horses they’d
and it’s definitely allowed us to go to the
have preferred to keep along the way.
next level. We’ve got a dressage arena,
But after their fair share of trials and
jump arena, cross country paddock, and
tribulations, they eventually became
we hack on the dirt roads around the
Redleaf’s proud owners. “And to Alan's
property. So it's really improved our ability
great credit, in all that time he never
to produce horses,” David explains. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 13
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And on that subject, Redleaf is currently home to an exciting group of horses, including Oaks Come By Chance (owned by David and Tallara); RR Monster (coowned with Linda Martin); Finch Farm Spruce (co-owned with Liz Watson, and the Brydon family) who’s just started to jump at Grand Prix level; Alan 111 Z (owned by Linda and Graham Huddy, and Sally Watkins) who David reckons is one of the best horses he’s ever ridden; Pete Benson’s Femme Fatale; and Tony Norman’s Tulara Darkensky.
A victory lap with RR Dyranta at the 2014 Summer Classic World Cup Qualifier (Image by Stephen Mowbray).
After the recent Queensland run, there are now three World Cup horses on the team. “Alan, a ten-year-old, Come by Chance who’s nine, and eight-year-old Spruce – so they’re a really exciting group of young horses coming through,” David says.
It’s because we've produced good horses and sold them that we were able to buy Redleaf. These days, the type of horse David looks for has changed quite considerably. Back in the day when finances were tight, re-saleability was important. So the aim was to source horses that were rideable, good looking, and commercial – horses that other people would want to ride. “And that's been really good for us. It’s because we've produced good horses and sold them that we were able to buy Redleaf,” David says.
can do the next thing,” David says, “but hopefully now we're in a situation where we've got some really good owners and people around us. And we're in a bit of a difference place in our lives so we can build a team and hang on to it.”
Sadly though there were horses that David and Tallara were very fond of and would have loved to have kept, but didn't. They reluctantly sold several horses to Japan to help fund their Redleaf deposit. Oaks Kosmo, sold for the same reason to Maddie Sinderberry, one of their clients at the time, went on to jump in her first World Cup events. “But I’m sure there’re many riders out there that have those same stories. You have to do those things so you
So now their aim is to move towards horses with strong competition potential. Likely candidates need to have a good brain and be good to work with. Athleticism and strength are both essential and soundness is critical. “They’re got to be horses that are trainable, I think that's really important,” he says. “Then the aim is to have one that's a real athlete, as well as having commercial potential. The trick is trying to get all those dots joined.”
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Future plans include taking a horse overseas and getting home successfully: “I've had a couple of goes at it and it would be really good to be up there and win a couple of decent classes. Tallara has a good horse in Oaks Come by Chance, so it would be wonderful to do that together. And then of course, it'd be great to represent Australia at the World Equestrian Games. Denis Lynch once told me that your best years as a show jumper are between 40 and 50, so I've got a few years yet to get ready,” he adds cheerfully. A wise man once said that if you throw your heart over the fence, the rest will follow – I think David must have been listening.
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 15
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J
umping an 80cm course may not take much work for the average horse, but what can we do to help
ensure we’re riding a happy, healthy
BRISTER’S BRIEF
Fit to go: show jumping
athlete? How much cantering should you do? What speed should you train at? It is a bit like the human fitness space, there are so many options. Should you do HIIT, weightlifting, running or Pilates? Similar to people, variety of training helps to provide a solid foundation. Let’s break down fitness into different components. There’s the cardiovascular fitness needed to maintain the speed
In Part One of CHARLIE BRISTER’S two part fitness series, he offers some expert thoughts on how to prepare your equine athlete for the show jumping ring.
and impulsion of the canter throughout your round. Then there’s the strength your horse needs to push from the hind end when taking off for an obstacle. Finally, there’s the conditioning necessary to prevent injury – which
BRISTERS BRIEF
A Thoroughbred will probably need less work on its cardiovascular fitness and more work on their ride-ability and strength to push off from behind.
Jumping should be part of your horse’s work schedule but don’t overtrain
spends slightly longer in the air – only a
How about the weather?
fraction of a second but this adds up over
If you’re competing in the warmer
the course of the day. Therefore, as the
months, be mindful of when you’re
jumps get higher your horse needs to be
training. If you train early in the morning
fitter and more rideable at speed.
or late in the afternoon, how will your
The Equestrian Australia rule book
horse cope when you have to compete
states that in outdoor show jumping
in the middle of the day? Don’t ride in
competitions of less than less than
temperatures that are dangerously high,
1.05m, the required speed is 325 meters
but occasionally you both need to train
per minute (mpm), more than 1.30m
in hotter weather so your fitness is at
requires 375mpm. For comparison, a
an appropriate level for the extra stress
4* cross country is 570mpm.
heat will put on you at the competition.
What surface are you on?
Diet
Is your horse used to jumping on grass
This depends on your particular horse’s
at home but competing on sand, or vice
needs and the level of jumping. If your
versa? Your horse may feel different
horse is fat, feed it less. If your horse is
depending on the surface. If the grass is
skinny, feed it more. If your horse is hot,
wet it can be drastically different to riding
feed less grain/pellets and more fibre. If
on sand – and a deep muddy footing will
your horse is a bit dull, feed more grain/
be physically more taxing on your horse.
pellets. As you’ve probably realised, this
Many top English riders take their horses
is an oversimplified look at your horse’s
means your horse can handle the
through muddy fields at slow speed to
nutritional requirements. What it does
repetition of multiple jump rounds on the
condition them for the less than ideal
suggest is that much depends on you
same day without undue stress on the
conditions that can occur at competitions.
noticing how your horse looks and feels.
joints and ligaments.
What breed is your horse?
By all means call a nutritionist for more
And there are other important
A Thoroughbred will probably need
advice, but also trust your gut instinct on
considerations:
less work on its cardiovascular fitness
what’s best for your steed.
What height are you jumping?
and more work on their ride-ability
All of the above factors impact on what
and strength to push off from behind.
training you need to do. Simply put,
Whereas a Warmblood is likely to need
regular training sessions will give you
more work on their fitness and ride-
a good foundation on which to build. If
ability, but less strength training.
you ride five days per week, chances
Is your horse easily adjustable?
are your horse will be fit enough for low
At 60cm most horses don’t require a lot of athleticism to clear obstacles. What they do need is basic trainability and education. This will enable them to navigate the course easily and help in their progression up the heights. At 1.30m a horse requires a lot more strength and power.
What speed are you going?
The more balanced and ride-able your
level jumping. And going back to your
horse, the more efficient it will be in its
gut instinct, how does your horse feel
jumping round. You’ll need to spend
after jumping a course? Are they puffed
less time increasing and decreasing the
or ready to keep going? Do they tend to
canter, which will make things easier for
have a rail down towards the end of the
Generally speaking, the higher the jumps,
you both. A horse that’s heavy on the
round? This will give you a rough guide
the quicker the speed. Also, when the
forehand will require more training and
as to whether you need to increase your
jumps are considerably higher the horse
more time between fences to rebalance.
horse’s fitness or not. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 21
BRISTERS BRIEF
Even if you’re short on space, if greater
Thursday: Flatwork
fitness is needed try going at a faster
Friday: Jumping, grid-work
pace around your arena four or five
A fast canter on the long side of the arena with two point seat.
Return to a three point seat on the short side of the arena.
times, rebalancing before each of the
Week 3
short sides before accelerating down the
Monday: Wake up, caffeinate, flatwork
long side again. This simulates the added
Tuesday: Jumping course work lesson
adrenaline of a competition, and will also
Wednesday: Hack or trail-ride
ensure you can still balance your horse
Thursday: Pole-work/ride-ability
when travelling at a higher speed. Repeat
exercises
this on each rein, and if your horse is
Friday: Flatwork
doing that easily add extra repetitions.
Saturday: Training day/competition
This is best to do in the middle of your
This is a rough guide and can of course
training sessions when your horse is
be altered depending on your schedule
adequately warmed up. And if they get a
and your horse’s requirements. The
bit over-excited you’ll have time to calm
main idea is the variety of training,
them down and reinforce their ride-
and note the inclusion of easy days.
ability before ending the ride.
To prevent injury and sourness, it’s
Your horse’s work plan
important not to overtrain your horse.
Assuming your horse is already in
If in doubt make sure you go for a jump
consistent work, here’s a possible
lesson with a knowledgeable coach.
work plan. If returning from a spell in
They’ll be a great source of information
the paddock, you’d want to build the
on all the topics mentioned above. Your
workload up gradually and not jump in
coach will help to gauge where your
the first week.
horse’s fitness is at, and provide suitable
Week 1
exercises to help get you to where you
Monday: Wake up, caffeinate, flatwork
need to be.
Tuesday: Pole work, ride-ability exercises Wednesday: Hack or trail ride Thursday: Flatwork Friday: Jumping lesson
Don’t miss Part 2 of Fit to go in our November/December issue, when we tackle eventing. Charlie is preparing an
Week 2
instructional video to guide you through
Monday: Wake up, caffeinate, flatwork
this article. To watch, jump into our VIP
Tuesday: Hill work or up tempo work
area. We’ll announce on our social
around the arena
pages and via email to our VIPs when
Wednesday: Hack or trail ride
it’s live, so stay tuned.
Repeat this exercise on each rein, adding more repetitions as fitness improves.
Remember to rebalance in the corners. 22 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Quality pasture helps to meet a horse’s protein requirements (Image courtesy of Kentucky Equine Research).
How much protein is required? The protein requirement for horses depends on life stage and workload.
ASK AN EXPERT
Rebecca Ham: Equine nutritionist
The current National Research Council recommendations for protein intake in a 500kg adult horse in work is 540g per day, for horses in light work 699g per day, and those in moderate work 768g per day. Quality pasture, hay and well formulated feeds or balancers are usually adequate in meeting these requirements. When it comes to protein, quality is far more important than quantity. A higher
Meet our expert REBECCA HAM, who has a degree in Equine Science and is a member of the Kentucky Equine Research team. We asked for her advice on keeping condition on Thoroughbreds.
quality protein more effectively delivers the essential amino acids required by the horse that cannot be made in the body. A high-quality protein source can be fed in relatively small amounts. Feeding a lower quality protein at a
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E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 25
ASK AN EXPERT
higher rate is not going to meet the
in increasing the calorie density of the
When looking for a commercial feed,
horse’s requirements for these essential
ration without substantially increasing
selecting one with a lower non-structural
amino acids. Optimal protein in a horse’s
the volume of the meal. Keeping meal
carbohydrate content is a good idea. But
diet helps to build and maintain muscle,
sizes small is critical as the horse only
make sure you also take into account
which is important for supporting
has a small stomach, and reducing the
the feeding rate. Even if this figure is
athleticism and performance.
size of the feed will help to improve
low, if you are feeding 4kg per day, it
Does excess protein make TBs ‘fizzy’?
utilisation as it goes through the
may add up to more than if you have
It is a common misconception that high
What feeds should you avoid?
protein diets contribute to more ‘fizzy’ type behaviour. This is not the case. It’s usually linked to other energy sources
gastrointestinal tract.
If you have a particularly ‘fizzy’ Thoroughbred, basing the diet on fat
a slightly higher figure but are only feeding 2kg per day. If you are experiencing problems with getting weight on your horse, have a ‘fizzy’ horse or are concerned about
in the diet like carbohydrates, which
and fibre is a great way to go. Getting a
have a greater influence on glycaemic
tested, low non-structural carbohydrate
response post feeding. Excess protein
hay is a good option, or soaking it
intake can result in the horse needing
helps to reduce the non-structural
to drink more to excrete the urea and
carbohydrate if you are unsure of its
program to come up with an individual
nitrogen that are broken down as part of
analysis. Selecting the right type of fibre
solution for you and your horse.
protein metabolism.
is important as well and there are lots
What’s the best cool feed for TBs that improves weight and also helps to keep condition on?
of options! Typically, lucerne hay may
If you would like to speak to a member
have a higher digestible energy content
of the nutrition team at Kentucky Equine
and lower non-structural carbohydrate
Research, you can get in contact on
Fibre, fibre, fibre! Fibre intake needs to
content than a grass hay.
1800 772 198 or advice@ker.com
gastrointestinal health, it is a good idea to speak with a reputable, qualified equine nutritionist as they can look at all aspects of your horse’s feeding and management
be at least 1.5% of body weight per day on a dry matter basis. When needing the extra calories for weight gain, this can be offered ad lib if appropriate. When the horse has a healthy microbiome in their hindgut, they are very effective at deriving energy from the fibre provided in pasture, hay, chaff, haylage or other highly digestible supers. As the microbes break down this fibre, they produce B group vitamins, which have been linked to undesirable behaviour if these levels become low. Essentially, good gut health can assist in good behaviour as well as improved feed utilisation. Selecting super fibre sources such as beet pulp and soy hulls can be valuable here as they are more digestible and can contain more calories than other fibre sources like hay. Additionally, in winter the fermentation process that fibre undergoes during metabolism produces heat, helping to keep the horse warm. In terms of feeds other than fibre, using a high calorie ingredient such as stabilised rice bran can be useful
Beet pulp is high in fibre, more digestible, and has more calories than many other fibre sources (Image courtesy of Kentucky Equine Research).
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E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 27
Photo: Nadeen Davis Photography & Digital Art
F E AT U R E
Delivering Dreams Meet our finalists
F E AT U R E
Although she had a passion for horses throughout her childhood, NICOLE CREIGHTON-JONES didn’t come from a horsey family and couldn’t afford to ride, so she read equestrian magazines, watched numerous horse events, and dreamt that one day it would be her in the saddle. After leaving school, she volunteered at her local riding club, learning as much as she could before buying Rustic Fire in early 2019. “I’d only had a couple of dozen riding lessons and at first I had to hold the monkey strap while cantering,” Nicole recalls. Then she had her first jumping lesson and was hooked! India and Connie at Northside Riding Club’s Derby Day Competition (Image by Meg Andrew).
Her first 40cm competition came a few weeks later, six months after that she was competing and regularly placing in 115cm events, and by the end of the year was
With a mum who was formerly a show jumping state
jumping 130cm courses she’d built herself using course
champion, it’s hardly surprising to learn that INDIA
designs she found online.
ALLEN grew up around horses. She started riding when she was three, went to Pony Club and was helping her
By this time Nicole felt that her dreams of riding at
mother train and break horses by the time she was nine
a high level might really be possible. “I travelled to
– which is when the show jumping bug bit.
competitions with the aim of building up to the Young
As her jumping career progressed, India started training OTT Standardbreds and Thoroughbreds and loved helping the horses into a new phase of their lives.
Rider series in late 2020. But bushfires and COVID meant I was only able to get to three competitions that year,” she says.
But just after her 16th birthday, a bad riding accident
But that hasn’t stopped her. Although she faces time
resulted in compound fractures to her leg, followed by
constraints and financial challenges, she’s now focusing
16 surgeries and a month-long hospital stay.
on mastering 130cm fences before stepping up to
Fear of horses and another accident became very real. “I was terrified, but I needed to kick the fear. So I approached a local Thoroughbred trainer and got a job as a track worker,” she says.
140cm. Her long term goals are to ride at the top level and to one day represent Australia. “Nobody believed I would get as far as I already have, and I’d like to prove that you don't have to be born into an equestrian family to become a good rider,” she says.
It took some time, but India’s shattered leg and her confidence eventually healed. She began training OTT horses again, enrolled in TAFE, and completed a Certificate III in Performance Horse studies along with
Nicole and Rustic Fire in their first Young Rider competition at the 2020 Summer Classic (Image by Kylie Teirney).
Year 12. It was after moving to Sydney that India purchased Connie, her dream horse. Now four years old, Connie was started and schooled by India, and has turned into an impressive horse with a bright future. “She has changed my life as a human and as a horsewoman. I would like to expose her to multiple disciplines in her young horse phase before pursuing a professional jumping career,” India says. Although she’s only ever had four paid lessons, India dreams of being able to afford the expert instruction that will help her lift her game to the next level.
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 29
EQUESTRIAN HUB | BOUTIQUE
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F E AT U R E
EMMA HULSE is a passionate equestrian who loves dressage and eventing. She has been busy competing with her new horse Eagle Elms Fiderstar, producing results that include a 1st in both the Novice 2B at Camden Equitation Dressage and the Prelim 1B at Hawkesbury Dressage, and a 2nd in the EVA80 class at Harden Eventing. Several years ago a series of bad falls rocked her confidence. But with the help of her coaches she’s working on overcoming her fears and is determined to achieve her goal of competing at Medium Dressage and 105 Eventing by the end of 2022. Hannah and Woodside Maestro focussing on their test (Image by Oz Shotz Photography).
A great believer in giving back, Emma regularly volunteers at dressage and eventing competitions and is a dedicated Sydney Eventing committee
HANNAH GIBLIN began riding as a young child and
member. She says one of her greatest achievements
has never looked back. After a solid grounding at Pony
was her involvement in Sydney Eventing’s public
Club she moved into the world of showing, and some of
acknowledgement of the Traditional Custodians of
her proudest moments have been winning Champion
the land on which their event was held, which was
Girl Rider 12 Years and Under at Brisbane Royal, some
very well received and later replicated at the Canberra
significant successes at State level competitions, and
International Horse Trials.
coming home from the Queensland State Challenge Show with five garlands. More recently she won Supreme Hack and Supreme Rider of the Show at the 2021 Kilcoy Ag Show, and Supreme Rider at the 2021 Maleny Ag Show.
Emma says she faces three main obstacles to achieving her goals: time, money, and mental barriers. “Throughout my riding career I’ve balanced full time university study and employment, and now full time employment in the Sydney CBD where I also live.
But while she still enjoys showing – she’s currently
The commute to my horses is often over 90 minutes,
preparing for the Lady Rider class at this year’s
involving exorbitant fuel costs and toll fees. But I love
Brisbane Royal – she felt the need for a challenge and
riding so much I’d do it every day if I could afford it!”
moved into dressage training, a transition that she says has been “extremely challenging but very rewarding.”
She manages to fit everything into her schedule by getting up before the crack of dawn to ride, or if that
And there's another challenge: she’s started her own
isn’t possible, to commute to her horses after work,
horse training and tuition business, and now has
which she says, is never a chore.
several clients. “It was always my dream to be a horse trainer and whilst my business is extremely small, it’s certainly a step in the right direction,” says Hannah,
Emma and Eagle Elms Fiderstar competing in the 2021 Berrima ODE (Image by Melissa Goodson, Snapshotaustralia).
who would ultimately like to be a top dressage trainer. As with many in the equestrian community, her biggest obstacles are time and money. “Although I’m up at 6:00am everyday feeding, un-rugging and cleaning stables, along with working in my day job, there are never enough hours in the day.” High on Hannah’s wish list is to improve her riding and training techniques, and to find a way to reduce her working hours so she can spend more time focussing on building her training centre and schooling her clients’ horses.
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 31
F E AT U R E
NICOLE MUTIMER grew up in Larrimah, a remote Northern Territory (NT) township, and spent most of her childhood on the back of a horse. The family moved to Darwin when she was a teenager and for the first time she was able to go to Pony Club, where her ‘cowboy’ riding style was tidied up! For several years Nicole was employed by the NT Police to develop and deliver Juvenile Diversion Programs for young people who were either juvenile offenders, or had been abused - a role that was both difficult and rewarding. “It’s amazing how horses are a great equalizer and can help heal the most broken of souls,” she says. Jasna’s current horse is beautiful nine-year-old stallion Royal Rinpoche (Image by Amanda Wood Photography). Thanks to owning the “epitome of the naughty grey pony”, JASNA MARSANIC realised early that riding was largely a mind game. After university she learned horsemanship from “a fabulous old couple” who leased her a B grade show jumper, gave her lessons on their A grade jumping mare, and let her have the odd ride on a horse later sold overseas as a Grand Prix show jumper. Forever grateful for these experiences, Jasna also broke in her first horse under their tutelage, and began show jumping at C Grade when she was told that she was too old and her 17.3hh horse too big to compete at a lower level! She also strapped for Sue Hearn, who helped get her 12-year-old gelding training medium and advanced level movements, as well as putting her up on some of her own horses so Jasna could get a 'feel' for dressage. Since then Jasna says she has been blessed with some beautiful horses, and although she hasn’t been competing is loving training: “It’s my zen time where you can't focus on the past or the future. You have to live the ‘now’ when you are riding.” Her current horse, a beautiful nine-year-old stallion, was broken in late due to injury. Jasna’s dream is to give him a good education before lightly campaigning him, and if possible, to document the journey. As she says, few riders make it to the top so it’s important to be realistic and celebrate the everyday: “Personal goals and happiness are just as important as competitive goals. And I think it's healthy to inspire others – it's never too late to learn and to try.”
32 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
A full-time coach and trainer since 2013 (she was selected as the National Interschool Championships NT Show Jumping Coach on four occasions), Nicole is a very successful competitor in jumping, dressage and showing events and has won numerous titles. She is passionate about improving horse welfare through ethical horsemanship practices and education, and holds a Diploma in Equitation Science through Dr Andrew McLean's Equitation Science International. Her other passion is reaching out to riders who are struggling and are at the point of giving up. Often these are mums and other women who think that having the confidence to ride is a thing of the past. Despite the costs associated with travelling, she delivers clinics for adult riders throughout the Territory. “Their journey is amazing, emotional and very inspiring,” she says, “and my goal is to help all of those women who want to improve their horsemanship, safety, and feel like they are growing. I want to make the love and joy of riding achievable for everyone.” Nicole and Mon Amour at the 2018 Fred’s Pass Show (Image by Tegan Cann Photography).
DELIVERING DREAMS
“Every mistake and ‘failure’ is an opportunity to learn. And if you do what you love, your passion and drive will help push you through the tough lessons! The harder the journey, the bigger the sense of achievement. Nothing is worth doing if it takes no effort or doesn’t teach you something.” Olympian Amanda Ross (Image by Stephen Mowbray Photography)
Business without the bumps It starts with a plan that puts you in control
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F E AT U R E
LAURA NORTHOVER began riding as a five-year-old. Growing up her focus was on showing and dressage, with a bit of jumping and working hunter for variety. While family funds were limited, Laura was fortunate to always have nice horses, although usually very green or freshly broken. Through high school she worked at a dressage stable, where she learned a lot - including the importance of a good work ethic. With school now behind her she competes on most weekends in either the show ring or dressage arena. Although travelling long distances to shows is not in her budget, she is delighted to say that she has been placed at the Sydney Royal in the open, breed, and Georgina and Georgie at this year’s Burpengary CCN (Image by Oz Shotz Photography). GEORGINA MUTTON’S passion for horses runs in the family, and thanks to helping parental hands she was riding her first pony before she could sit up. While she had several wonderful horses while growing up, Georgina first discovered her love of eventing with the often naughty Oki. With years of hard work they made Interschool and Pony Club state teams and competed up to 1*.
working hunter classes every year since first attending in 2014. “I am really proud that each year I’ve have taken a horse fully produced by myself. I currently have two horses, a Warmblood and a wonderful Clydesdale cross,” she adds. With her Warmblood now competing at elementary level, she hopes to progress all the way to Grand Prix one day. But for the next 12 months her sights are set on getting Jay, her “beautiful big spooky” Warmblood competing at advanced level dressage. The most challenging horse she’s ever owned, Laura would love to access training to help Jay reach his full potential.
Then followed a move interstate to attend university,
“I’ve dreamt of riding in tails since my childhood, and I
plus a seven year break from riding, with Georgina
think I finally have the horse to get there if I can do him
“missing it a lot.” Fortunately fate intervened when
justice. Showing wise, my ultimate goal is to win a class
she was offered Life in Manhattan, an OTT grey mare
at either an EA or SHC show, or sometimes I'd even be
whose stable name happened to be Georgie – and with
happy with a top 10!” she laughs.
a birthday just two days after Georgina’s own, it was clearly meant to be! Although she had to rearrange her life in order to return to riding, Georgina couldn’t be happier. “We’ve
Laura and Jay Jay in their rider class at the Show Horse Council NSW HOTY Show (Image by Lorelle X Mercer Photography).
competed in three Ev65 events, always finishing in the top 10. Our best result to date was winning our event at Fig Tree Pocket in March 2021.” With Georgie showing so much promise, Georgina’s goal is to compete at EV80 level before the end of the year, stepping up to Ev95 in 2022. After seven years away, she recognises she needs to develop her own riding, and wants to grow as an OTT retrainer and coach: “I’d love to be able to work with more talented Thoroughbreds and young riders in the future,” she says. While realising such dreams can be financially costly Georgina equates it to “setting your pay on fire before you even get it” - she’s more determined than ever to access the coaching and OTT retraining education she needs.
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 35
F E AT U R E
PHILLIPA ROSS has overcome more than a few serious health issues and is definitely not a stranger to adversity. She rode as a child and her dream was always to own a horse and join Pony Club. However, her family was impacted by the global financial crisis and her dream never came to fruition. In her early 20s and financially independent, she returned to riding and had just begun cross country training when she had a couple of significant falls. “They left me injured and traumatised, and out of fear and a belief I was not good enough, I gave up riding all together,” she explains. Fifteen years later and Phillipa has put the past behind Gabrielle and Sid taking advantage of the 2020 Fig Tree Pocket Equestrian Club Competitive/Participant Dressage Day (Image by Oz Shotz Photography).
her. “In 2020 I reinvigorated my love of horses and horsemanship. I’ve overcome a great deal of adversity in my time and am no longer just surviving, I’m thriving,” she says.
It wasn’t until she’d completed her studies in Agricultural Science at the University of Queensland that GABRIELLE PENNA was able to realise her lifelong dream of owning a horse – and Sid, a well-educated 13-year-old, 17.2hh Thoroughbred fitted the bill perfectly.
When COVID-19 hit, Phillipa began working from home and (when lockdowns allowed) replaced her morning commute with a riding lesson. But her fear didn’t leave entirely until she worked with a sports psychologist and purchased Toby, a gentle Clydesdale cross. The
Knowing only the basics, Gabrielle says that initially she
pair competed in their first HRCAV Combined Training
was “an unbalanced blobbing sack of potatoes with no
event in May. Phillipa says she loved every second and
understanding of contact or correct aids.” But she’s a
“cannot wait to get out and compete more.”
quick learner, and now the pair are eventing in South
Unfortunately, Phillipa’s job became redundant not long
East Queensland. In August last year they rode in their
after buying Toby, and finances are now stretched.
first ODE and have since competed in seven events,
However, she’s determined to follow her equestrian
placing in the top 10 in four of them, followed by a 2nd
dream: “I’m aware you can’t become a great rider
place out of 42 riders in the 65cm class at the Warwick
overnight, and I want to dedicate time to increasing my
Horse Trials ODE. They have since moved up to the
knowledge. And as a fan of evidence-based learning,
80cm classes.
I’m keen to undertake a Diploma of Equitation Science,”
Gabrielle is passionate about community and wants to support her wonderful friends in their riding journeys in the same way they have supported hers: “I believe in building a community around riding where we all believe our goals can be met if we remain tenacious and put our minds to it.” For Gabrielle, her biggest achievement has been her improvement over the last two years. While 60cm cross country jumps were at first daunting, she now looks at star classes and thinks ‘one day’. “As an adult learner I always felt a little behind in my riding ability and education. Now I believe if I dedicate myself to this sport I’ll be just as competitive as those who have been riding their whole lives,” she says. And if there was expert coaching to help her on her way? Well, that would be a dream come true.
36 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
she says. Phillipa with Toby, the heart horse who helped rebuild her confidence (Image courtesy Phillipa Ross).
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Asymmetry usually means the muscle is too weak on one side and too tight on the other (Image courtesy Natasha Gunston).
W
e all know riding is a sport like no other, thanks to our four legged friends
who keep us somewhat broke, always
F E AT U R E
humble, and usually very happy. But beyond the partnership aspect of horse
The beauty of balance
riding, the demands placed on us as athletes are also quite unique. While a sport like running requires forward and up/down movement, a rider must deal with four types of movement: forward and back, side-to-side, twisting,
Riding is a sport that requires the human
and up and down. To ride effectively,
body to perform a variety of movements.
we have to stabilise ourselves against
ENYA CROCKFORD explores the world of biomechanics and shares some expert advice on how to become a more balanced and effective rider.
all these movements and correctly apply our aids at the same time. This is known as biomechanics, which looks at how the horse and rider move,
F E AT U R E
Check your boots and gloves for uneven wear marks (Image courtesy Natasha Gunston). both by themselves and in relation
What makes us ride well?
boots. Start by inspecting your saddle’s
to each other. I spoke to Natasha
Riding isn’t so much about strength and
seat, the lower part of your saddle flap,
Gunston of The Eventing Physiologist,
power output as activating the right
and the inside of your boots. This can
an accredited exercise physiologist,
muscles at the right time. When we have
reveal unevenness in your pelvis and
biomechanics coach and 2* eventer,
unevenness or position faults, it’s usually
who explains the role of biomechanics
subsequent movement from your legs.
because some muscles aren’t being
in our riding, how to assess our own
“For example, you might see a bigger
used properly, causing them to be weak
biomechanics, and offers some simple
wear mark on the right side of your
while the opposite muscles tighten as
saddle’s seat,” Natasha explains. “If
tips and exercises to become a better balanced and more effective rider.
they work hard to compensate. “About 90% of riders are uneven through the
Why are rider biomechanics so important?
pelvis, because one side is tight and the
Biomechanics dictate our ability to
weak side your seat usually has more
apply our aids effectively and not inhibit
weight in it and your leg won’t work as
the horse's movement so that we can
effectively. On your strong or tight side,
produce good performance. Even more
you will be tense and pushing against
importantly, it ensures we are evenly balanced and easy to carry in order to prevent long-term changes in our horse. Natasha compares the effect unevenness has on our horse to pushing a wheelbarrow uphill. If the wheelbarrow
other is weak,” says Natasha. “On your
so, you’re sitting to the right and you have more weight in the right leg, which causes the right hip to brace and lock. At the same time, you might see more wear marks on the left saddle flap and on your left boot, because the tilt has made your left leg less stable so that it
the horse.”
swings around.”
Assessing your biomechanics
And if you ride in gloves, check the wear
To correct weaknesses in our position,
on these to see if you’re using one rein
we have to know what and where they
more than the other.
are. Unfortunately, most of us have been
2. Have someone video you
has a big rock on the left hand side, your
riding with our faults for years so it’s
left arm and leg will have to work much
almost impossible to recognise them on
harder. Soon you will collapse your left
feel alone.
side and shift your ribs to compensate
Natasha recommends three methods to
discrepancies. From the side, check to
spot any weaknesses or unevenness:
see whether you're keeping your ear,
thing happens to your horse, influencing
1. Check your gear
shoulder, hip and ankle in alignment.
the way they move and even causing
Check your gear for uneven wear
If not, notice whether your spine is
damage over the long term.
marks, particularly your saddle and
tipping forward or backwards.
for the uneven load. When you’re slightly uneven in the saddle, the same
You can also assess yourself on video. From the front, look at your stirrup levels and see where there are
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 41
F E AT U R E
Biomechanics involves correctly stabilising our body against the movements of our horse (Image by Ross Stevenson Photography).
3. Get a professional assessment
Three ways to better biomechanics
If however you’re leaning to far back in
The previous two tips will help you
Natasha shared three ways to help
the chair position, your lower leg might
notice any faults and correct them, but
improve your balance and effectiveness:
be too far forward, creating a tight seat,
there is often an underlying tightness
1. Correct a fork or chair position
gluteus muscles and lower back. This
or weakness that will cause you to go
The fork and chair position are
shifts your weight onto your horse’s loins
back into your old position. “It’s not
common imbalances in the way we sit
and your hands will likely be blocking
necessarily a big catastrophe. It could
in the saddle. If you video yourself and
and hanging onto the reins.
just mean that there's a muscle that's not
discover your spine is tipping forward,
quite able to activate correctly because
there’s a good chance you are in the
it's switched off and needs to be turned
fork position. You will have too much
back on,” Natasha says.
weight through your thighs and groin,
In that case, see an exercise physiologist
folding forward off your seat bones
or physiotherapist who can identify
onto your pubic bone. This position
At the same time, let your thighs, knees
weaknesses and help you correct them.
prevents you from using your driving
and ankles relax down.
And while someone equestrian-specific
aids effectively.
2. Strengthen your gluteus muscles
is ideal, any good physio will be able to
To correct this, Natasha recommends
Are you weaker through one side than
help. Tell them what you’re struggling
working on sitting back and shifting your
the other? Is your weight shifting to one
with so they can identify where the
weight from your thighs to your seat
side? Or, do you have difficulty getting
problem is coming from and correct
bones. Shortening your stirrups a hole or
one leg on as well as the other? This is a
those areas.
two can help you create the right feeling.
sign that you’re weak through your
42 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
To fix the chair position, Natasha suggest bringing your seat further forward in the saddle and extending your body by thinking about growing tall.
F E AT U R E
The fork position prevents you using your driving aids effectively (Image courtesy Natasha Gunston).
The chair position causes you to block with your hands and upper body (Image courtesy Natasha Gunston).
pelvis and hip stabilisers, particularly your
your feet are a hip width apart again.
first finding your pelvic bones with your
gluteus medius.
Repeat this several times then go the
fingers. “Then bring your fingers up a
Natasha suggests some simple exercises to strengthen these muscles. The first is the clamshell. Lie on your side with your head propped up on your hand and your legs bent at 90 degrees. Your feet, shoulders and hips should all be in line. Keeping your free hand on your hip, ensure your top hip is slightly further forward than your bottom hip. Keeping your feet together, lift your top knee up and slowly lower back down, making sure you don’t roll your hips back.
other way. You can see these exercises
few centimetres and push them into
demonstrated on The Eventing
your abdomen while staying relaxed.
Physiologist’s YouTube channel.
Then pretend to cough. You will feel a
3. Activate your core
little tightening under your fingers which
A strong core is essential for a stable
is your core activating.”
position, but contrary to popular belief, it can’t be strengthened with sit-ups alone. “Strengthening the superficial abdominal muscles won’t truly activate your core,
To recreate the feeling, think about bringing your belly button to your spine and tightening the front of your pelvic
as your core is actually several layers
region. Then practice activating your core
deep,” Natasha says. It’s important to
through your day-to-day activities: working
learn how to activate your core so that
out, brushing your teeth, waiting for the
it comes naturally when you ride, and
kettle to boil … anything! “That way,”
the good news is it doesn’t even require
Natasha says, “it becomes so automatic
hours of Pilates torture! (Although this
that you subconsciously activate it when
too is very beneficial).
you’re in the saddle. Then you can focus
slow, controlled step to the left before
To understand the sensation of
on every other aspect of riding instead of
stepping across with your right leg so
engaging your core, Natasha suggests
thinking ‘core, core, core’.”
For the second exercise, the crab walk, you will need a looped resistance band or Theraband. Place it around your legs at your knees and stand with your feet hip distance apart. Take a
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 43
xxx
Horses susceptible to laminitis should be removed from the paddock before 11:00am.
VET VIBES
Laminitis: the latest findings
E
quine laminitis (sometimes known as founder) is a complex, multifactorial syndrome that
manifests as pain and lameness in the feet. The modern horse is bigger and heavier than its ancestor, the Prewejski horse, which stood at around 14.2hh. However, hoof size has changed little over the millennia and the structure of the equine hoof today is very close to its mechanical limits, and has become a major focus for problems.
The latest research into laminitis has produced some interesting findings. Veterinarian DR. DOUG ENGLISH explains why laminitis is a more complex problem than was at first thought.
Essentially, laminitis is caused by a cascade of inflammatory and vascular reactions, which cause damage to the structure and function of the hoof’s suspensory apparatus: the lamellae
VET VIBES
attaching the distal phalanx (the last bone in the hoof) to the hoof wall. Such damage can be irreversible or take years to correct. When the horse stands, weight bears down on the attaching structure causing further problems. The ideal fix is 100 per cent no weightbearing on hooves, which is, of course, unachievable as horses cannot lie flat for more than an hour or two.
Image courtesy of Hygain.
And before we go further, it may be useful to note that a disease and a
response syndrome (SIRS), rather than
reaction: it limits production of the
syndrome are not one and the same:
being a discrete disease entity.
neurotransmitter dopamine, which
a disease has a definite cause with distinguishing symptoms, while a syndrome is a group of symptoms that
In fact, the understanding of laminitis as a primary and severe disease of the
controls and limits the production of ACTH (Adrenocorticotrophic hormone)
basement membrane (the membrane
in the middle part of the pituitary gland,
providing cell and tissue support) in the
which then in turn is over secreted and
hoof, now needs to be revised. Current
stimulates excess cortisones from the
There are a number of symptoms that
data indicates that before symptoms
adrenal cortex.
suggest laminitis:
become evident, a variable phase
It’s the excess cortisone and resultant
Presents as lame
associated with gross changes in the
insulin dysregulation in horses with either
hoof capsule, along with stretching and
PPID or EMS that puts them at a higher
elongation of the lamellar cells, are an
risk of developing laminitis. Fortunately,
early and key event in the onset of
PPID can be treated with the drug
might not always have a definite cause.
Symptoms indicating laminitis
Reluctant to move Leans backwards to even up weight distribution, which is mostly on the front feet of a normal horse Sensitive when a hoof tester is applied to the toe Gross hoof wall abnormalities with a wide or divergent white line A flat sole
the disease.
as Prascend, a dopamine agonist
disease is now believed to be the
(the opposite of an antagonist) which
predominant form in horses presenting with
stimulates the production of the dopamine
lameness. Their insulin levels are several
necessary for restoring balance.
times higher, they have higher plasma
Risk factors
triglycerides, and higher body condition scores (in other words, they’re fat!).
Diverging rings
Insulin dysregulation
Laminitis is now considered to be a
Many of these cases are, but not
clinical syndrome associated with
necessarily, older horses with either
systemic diseases such as endocrine
PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia
disease, sepsis, or systemic inflammatory
Dysfunction or Equine Cushing’s) where the adrenal glands produce excess
A 2019 survey identified a number of risk factors associated with laminitis: Lack of regular daily exercise: standing in small areas is not conducive to good hoof health. Historically, horses are athletes that moved in herds over wide areas, and
cortisone, or EMS (Equine Metabolic
they still need to continually move for
Syndrome) in which fat cells produce a
good health.
hormone that elevates cortisone levels, altering the normal insulin response and producing high levels of insulin and elevated blood glucose. PPID is a disease of the pituitary gland caused by degeneration of the A laminitic horse will often lean backwards to redistribute weight away from their forelegs (Image courtesy Hygain).
pergolide, known in the marketplace
Laminitis associated with endocrine
hypothalamus, a part of the brain that plays a vital role in controlling many bodily functions. This degeneration sets off an unwelcome chain
Serious illness such as intestinal infection following major abdominal surgery Obesity Lack of exercise Genetic predisposition Previous history of laminitis High levels of cortisone from different causes E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 45
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VET VIBES
Avoid grazing susceptible horses where the grass is short as it has increased sugar. Hoof care intervals greater than eight weeks Soreness following routine hoof care Seasonal increases in grass fructan: a major cause of laminitis is linked to seasonal increases in the concentration of grass fructans (chains of fructose molecules). Fructose is the monosaccharide sugar common in fruit, and the main sugar in honey.
of non-structural carbohydrates in a
up to 260 DP fructans (260 fructose
short period. Use a muzzle all of the
units) in Timothy. Fructans cannot
time or not at all. (See this issue’s Ask
be broken down by enzymes in the
an Expert for more on non-structural
small intestine and are fermented by
carbohydrates).
micro-organisms in the large intestine
Feeding ryegrass in pasture or hay. Avoid grazing susceptible horses where the grass is short - it has increased sugar.
creating volatile fatty acids and lactate, with the potential for large amounts to cause acidosis resulting in laminitis. The higher the DP, the greater the danger of laminitis.
Fructans like oligofructose increase
Most mammalian biochemistry cannot
during periods when grass can
Don’t miss our November/December
handle it in large amounts.
photosynthesise but can’t grow e.g.
issue, in which Dr Doug takes an expert
cold weather, water logging, drought.
look at mycotoxins and their implications
Laminitis and grazing grass The relationship between laminitis and
Fructans are reduced by topping or
grazing grass is complex, however a
cutting grass because the plant’s
number of causal factors have been
fructan stores are then used to
identified and should be kept in mind:
produce new leaves.
Access to pasture later in the day when photosynthesis from the sun has boosted its sugar content. Susceptible horses should be removed from the paddock before 11:00am, and not be put out until just before dawn. Spending only short periods on grass educates the horse to eat too fast. Use of grazing muzzles part time:
for laminitis.
Fructans tend to be highest at the start and the end of the growing season, particularly in regions with shorter growing seasons. Polymerisation is the process in which small molecules combine to form chains. Fructans with lower degrees of polymerisation (DP) are likely to be more rapidly broken down than those with higher DPs. DP varies between
this causes compensatory eating and
species, from brome grass which has
the ingestion of substantial amounts
26 DP fructans (26 fructose units)
Use a grazing muzzle all of the time, or not at all. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 47
F E AT U R E
Creating confidence With 19 years coaching experience CHRISTINE ARMISHAW, a 1* event rider and EA Level 1 Coach, knows a thing or two about rider confidence: how it gets lost, and where to find it.
A
s women returning to riding, we all remember the way it used to feel when we were fearless teenagers. Jumping whatever we could find lying around, racing friends and galloping across fields or down the beach. If somewhere along the way you happened to come unstuck from your mount, you just got up, dusted yourself off and hopped back on. Then, when you returned to riding after a long break, be it due to career commitments, having children or perhaps coming back after an injury, you discovered a new mental component that apparently needed to be addressed.
Make a plan
Breathe a song
Before you get on, decide what it is
One of the first things to happen when
thinking brains seemed suddenly
you are going to do in this ride. Maybe
we get nervous is our breathing gets
pre-occupied with the future. If we came
you’ll practise flatwork, play over
shallow, leading to our body becoming
off the horse and hurt ourselves, we
trotting poles, or do some jump training.
tense and stiff. Your brain is deprived of
had other responsibilities that may be
Whatever it is, decide at the start. Then,
oxygen and you can’t think properly. A
affected, like work, kids and general life
make micro plans during your ride
fun way to keep yourself breathing as
duties. These common thought patterns
to stop yourself from aimlessly riding
turn us from gung-ho girls, into timid and
you ride is to sing a song out loud. One
around in circles, waiting for something
cautious ‘what if-ers’.
of my riders, Carina, sings a tune as she
to happen! It can be as simple as
mounts up and continues the song for
I personally have experienced this
deciding to walk half a circle, weave
the first couple of laps around the arena.
phenomenon more than once, after
through some cones, then trot back.
She finds it incredibly beneficial for
coming off horses and breaking my
Did it go well? If yes, great, if not, that’s
beating her pre-ride jitters and now does
arm and leg on separate occasions,
OK. But now you can try again and you
it every time she gets in the saddle. The
and even more so after having each of
have a way to evaluate your progress.
reason it works so well is simple – you
my two children. I only stopped riding
Always think one or two steps further
must breathe to sing. It keeps the oxygen
for the later part of both pregnancies
ahead in your ride than where you are
flowing, while allowing your brain to get
and was back in the saddle a few short
right now. This one tip alone will make
focused on something other than ‘what if’
months after my babies were born, so in
any ride much more productive and is
style thoughts. The flow-ons are that your
the grand scheme of things I didn’t have
great for building confidence, as it keeps
body also starts to relax, and it can even
a large amount of time off. However, it
your brain engaged and thinking ahead.
help relax your horse.
Having realised we weren’t invincible, our older, wiser and more forward-
wasn’t necessarily the length of time that was the biggest culprit, but the added level of responsibility I found myself laden with upon becoming a mother. Nerves kicked in and I would start to feel apprehensive right before mounting up. I was tentative about going too fast and a basic 60cm vertical out in my paddock seemed more like a Grand Prix show jump fence! One time, while jumping on my Thoroughbred Fanta, I got nervous and tensed up. We awkwardly jumped the fence and I promptly fell off over his right shoulder. I wasn’t hurt and Fanta just stopped and stood there looking at me on the ground - I think we were both as surprised as each other and I was cross with myself. That was a really significant moment for me. What made it a turning point was that yes, I acknowledged I was experiencing a level of anxiety, but no, I would not allow it to dictate or define me. That’s where getting on top of your nerves begins, with acknowledging the feelings you are experiencing, then making a plan to move forward. Here are my top tips for dealing with nerves and re-building the confidence you know you had. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even find more than you had before.
ABOVE: With Myal High El Capitano on the downhill and over the wagon at Camden (Image by Tom Testone Photography). LEFT: Christine coaching at her Oaks Sport Horses jump clinic (Image by Melissa Goodson, Snapshotaustralia). E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 49
F E AT U R E
Christine and Myal High El Capitano in the dressage phase at Camden (Image by Ian Vaughn Photography). LEFT: Discussing goals, challenges and making plans for this client to move forward (Image by Melissa Goodson, Snapshotaustralia).
Do it until it’s boring
for lots of situations: building up to a
nuts and pick holes in everything, just
When you’re trying to push yourself
canter - trot until it’s boring; jumping
pick one or two things to focus on for
to level-up, but you’re feeling the fear
baby cross rails - ride over poles on
the next couple of rides. They could
of the next step, wait. When my client
the ground until it’s boring; putting the
be sitting taller and keeping your legs
Sandy was feeling anxious about
jumps up - ride those tiny cross rails until
under your body, rather than toes out in
trotting her mare, even though she
it’s boring!
front of you; looking up and out, not just
really thought she should be doing it
Perfect practise makes perfect
down at your horse; or remembering to
by now, my advice was this: just walk. Walk circles, lines, figure eights, through cones and over poles, until all that
After being out of the saddle for a while, or riding on your own with no
lift your chin, turn your head and actually look to see where you're going.
one guiding you, your position can get
Another great one is remembering to
sloppy. The easiest way to fix this is
keep your eyes up and look past the
simply knowing exactly what you wish
fence, not down at it, as you jump. At
to improve in the first place. If you can
every jump clinic I hold, this one comes
Interestingly, once you’ve done
bribe a child to come out and film part of
up multiple times. It’s much easier to pick
something for long enough with
your ride in exchange for TV time (yes,
a fixed point ahead to keep your eyes
repeated success, you can’t help but
I’m guilty of this), it can be incredibly
on, like a fence post or a tree, rather than
want to try a little more. This can work
useful to do a self-critique. Don’t go
just saying ‘don’t look down’. Rachel, who
walking gets boring. Taking the pressure off yourself subconsciously opens your mind up.
50 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
F E AT U R E
came along to a recent clinic was amazed
pack all the right gear. Leave the added
Don’t let other people define your
at how much this one simple change in
excitement of actually competing for a
success, it looks different for everyone.
position positively altered her balance
later date.
You may wish to get back to the level
and improved her confidence.
Set up for success
When I run low level jump clinics, the
you previously competed at, or you might want to stick to pleasure riding.
riders are feeling nervous, excited and
Either is OK because riding is supposed
oftentimes are not sure how their horses
to be fun! Your goals might include
will react in the new environment. By
cantering around an open field, hitting
the end of the session, the ladies are
the trails with friends again, or being
laughing, their horses are relaxed and
able to ride out with your kids. No matter
going in a more balanced way, and
the destination, remember the joy of
everyone has two or three things they
horses comes from the journey they
first. You will already be taking your
can go home to continue working on.
take you on.
horse off the property, riding with other
It might take a few outings to get really
Want to hop on board her next clinic?
strange horses in an unfamiliar setting,
comfortable riding to your best ability off-
Contact Christine by email
and having to deal with the pressures of
property, but this is the mental space you
christinearmishaw@gmail.com, or search
float loading, traffic, and remembering to
want to be planning a competition from.
Facebook for Christine Armishaw Equestrian.
On your quest to build confidence you do need little goals that push you out of your comfort zone, but set yourself and your horse up to be as successful as possible. Before heading out to your first dressage day or jump competition, aim to attend a clinic or training day
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 51
52 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
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famous Winter Boot, created to keep
doesn’t lack character. Like a fine wine,
being outside with our horses.
With riding hours still at a premium, it’s important to make the minutes count, and one sure-fire way to ensure that is to invest in a great pair of riding boots.
his young daughter Catherina’s feet warm while she was riding in freezing temperatures. The success of this signature product jumpstarted the company and was soon followed by two international bestsellers: the riding shoe (a basketball style sneaker with a heel) and the waterproof riding coat (a lightweight alternative to oilskin).
VertyCore™ sole is lightweight and slip resistant, with shock-absorbing qualities that enhance both function and comfort. The memory foam footbed cushions the sole of your foot, helping to reduce foot fatigue so you can ride better for longer.
they get better with age, developing a beautiful patina with wear and conforming over time to the contours of your foot and leg. Built to last, and last beautifully, purchasing a pair represents a sound investment.
Whether you’re looking for something practical to keep your feet dry over winter, or a pair of showstoppers made for more, the Mountain Horse Wild River range might just transform
How about performance?
your equestrian
brand is well-known in equestrian circles.
Of course, the best riding
lifestyle and prove
The company produces a full range of
boots must
to be as functional
clothing and accessories, all in the same
mix form and
as they are
Swedish village in which it began.
function, and
fashionable.
Thirty years on, the Mountain Horse
the aesthetics of
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 53
NUTRITION
Feeding cool fuel
A
s prey animals, horses are naturally perceptive to potential dangers and will prime
themselves for flight instinctively. A horse’s tendency towards hot or anxious behaviour is influenced by breed and genetics, life experience and training, as well as the type and amount of feed ingested. Identifying possible diet-related causes of altered behaviour is a critical first
Equine nutritionist LARISSA BILSTON explains why nutrition can influence hot or anxious behaviour and what you can do to minimise the problem.
stage in determining the best nutritional strategy for long-term management of a horse’s health and behaviour. Nutritional factors that can underpin changed behaviour in horses include:
NUTRITION
for ‘play’. The key to avoiding exuberant
soy, or lupin hulls), oilseed meals, or oil.
misbehaviour is to match calories
Feeding lucerne just prior to exercise is
consumed with calories burned.
also recommended to buffer stomach
The amount of hard feed a horse needs varies according to the sugar and
acid and prevent splash burning the squamous region of the stomach.
starch (calorie) content of the forage
Hindgut acidosis occurs when high
and the horse’s requirement for body
levels of undigested starch and sugar
maintenance, growth and workload.
overflow into the caecum and colon.
Changes in pasture or hay quality are
Microbial fermentation of sugar and
not always visible, so it is important to
starch in the hindgut creates more acidic
regularly monitor your horse’s body
volatile fatty acids than those produced
condition for signs that they are gaining
by fibre fermentation, which can cause
or losing weight. Then increase or
ulcers in the gut lining.
decrease the size of the hard feed in
Hindgut acidosis can occur suddenly,
response to changes in workload and
when horses are turned out onto a
body condition score.
fresh paddock of lush, high sugar
High sugar or starch intake
pasture for example, or after the quick
Although many working horses perform well on grain-based hard feeds, some are prone to hot behaviour and become easily excited or nervous on high sugar or high starch diets. The reasons for this are largely unknown but are likely due
introduction of high starch hard feeds. Chronic hindgut acidosis occurs when horses are fed large meals of high starch ingredients which can’t all be absorbed in the small intestine and are fermented in the hindgut.
to spiking blood sugar and elevated pro-
Minimise the risk of hind gut acidosis
inflammatory cytokine levels and/or gut
by feeding every six hours with a meal
issues related to the microbiome via the gut-brain axis, or pain caused by gastric ulcers or hind gut acidosis. A horse’s tendency towards hot or anxious behaviour can be influenced by the type and amount of feed ingested.
BELOW: Hulls from the lupin are one of the low GI ‘super fibre’ feeds.
Gut-related pain The pain caused by gastric ulcers in both the squamous (upper) and glandular (lower) regions of the stomach can cause poor or changed behaviour. Gastroscopy is required for a correct
Overfed, underworked High starch or sugar intake Gut-related pain
diagnosis, and the treatment protocol depends on ulcer severity and the affected region of the stomach. Lifestyle and dietary changes are usually necessary for successful management of
Mycotoxin ingestion
gastric ulcers.
Microbiome and the gut-brain axis
Horses prone to ulcers need free choice
Dietary deficiencies and mineral
access to forage (unless overweight).
imbalance.
Overfed, underworked
Cereal hay, chaff, and cereal grains including barley, wheat, oats, corn, millrun, bran and pollard should be
Overfeeding of hard feeds is one of the
avoided. Also avoid feeds with added
most common causes of hyperactive
molasses or honey – so read bag labels
behaviour in horses. When horses
carefully. Choose low GI hard feeds by
consume more calories than they use
mixing your own or looking for premixed
in a day, they will store some excess
feeds made from legume grains (e.g.
energy as body fat, and use some of it
lupins), 'super fibres' (like beet pulp, E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 55
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NUTRITION
that’s below 500 grams per 100 kg of horse bodyweight, and limit access to high sugar grass (especially lush
Unless overweight, horses prone to ulcers need free choice access to forage.
new shoots in autumn and spring, or following a frost). Research shows that the addition of protected forms of the live yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae stabilizes hindgut pH and maintains a more diverse microbiome. Buffers such as bicarbonates that are protected until they reach the hindgut are another useful tool when starch and sugar intakes cannot be reduced sufficiently.
Mycotoxin ingestion Mycotoxins are harmful substances produced by bacteria and fungi growing on forage and grains. They can be present in pastures and grains pre- and post-harvest as well as in hays and silage. After ingestion, mycotoxins can negatively impact gastrointestinal function, disrupting the intestinal mucosa and the microbiome before being absorbed and causing neurological symptoms and organ damage. The symptoms of mycotoxin load in horses depend on many factors including the type and amount of toxin present and the individual's immunity or tolerance to mycotoxins. It is not unusual for one horse in a paddock to be much more affected than others. Symptoms of mycotoxin issues affecting the nervous system may include: Unpredictable, irritable, or spooky behaviour, out of character for the horse's temperament General crabbiness when ridden, pinning ears, swishing tail, kicking out Girthiness, not standing for saddling/ mounting
Adding a broad-spectrum mycotoxin
balance of gut microbial species (as
binder to the feed can help to address
occurs during emotional or physical
these issues. Options to reduce
stress) has been demonstrated to cause
exposure to mycotoxins can include
behavioural change in some species.
Tight, tense, impulsive flight response
limiting grazing hours or removing
Head shyness and sensitivity to touch,
horses from affected pastures during
noise or sudden movement Aggressiveness towards people or horses Hormonal behaviour in mares and
certain times of the year.
Microbiome and the gut-brain axis
Animals treated with probiotics have measurably lower levels of corticosterone, a stress hormone. Scientists believe that supplementation with probiotics to improve digestive
Exciting new research is emerging to
comfort is a plausible strategy for
demonstrate the significant influence of
behaviour modification in horses.
Separation anxiety
the gut microbial population on animal
Supplementation with live yeast
Head shaking or flicking.
health and behaviour. Disruption to the
Saccharomyces cerevisiae or certain
‘riggy’ behaviour in geldings
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 57
WHY BUY AND SELL THOUGH THE SADDLE HUB? þ BUY ONLINE SAFELY Secure payments with no risk of being scammed.
þ NO SURPRISES Confidence that saddles listed are described accurately, photographed honestly and the model you pay for is the one you get.
þ PROFESSIONAL SERVICE Helpful, friendly saddle advice and service from our team before and after your purchase.
þ MORE WAYS TO PAY Wide range of payment options to suit your budget and finances getting you in a new saddle sooner.
þ LOW RISK We inspect saddles, provide an accurate description and reject any that are not suitable for sale. You won’t receive a saddle with unexpected or undisclosed damage or blemishes.
Lactobacillus bacterial species maintains the natural diversity of hindgut bacterial populations. This keeps hindgut pH more stable, potentially avoiding behaviour modifying deficiencies in the vitamins and amino acids normally provided by a healthy hindgut microbiome.
Dietary deficiencies and mineral imbalance When a horse’s body lacks essential nutrients, behavioural and neurological symptoms commonly referred to as grass-affected behaviour can occur. For example, grass tetany and staggers can be caused by an imbalance in the macrominerals sodium, magnesium,
þ TRIAL FOR 14 DAYS We want to make sure you and your horse get the right fit and love your new saddle.
nitrogen and potassium. Dr Thomas Swerczek, a veterinary pathologist at the University of Kentucky says that supplement changes may be necessary when horses graze
For buying or selling contact info@equestrianhub.com.au www.equestrianhub.com.au 58 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
stressed pasture forages, especially grass in the spring and autumn when cold-stress and drought stress occurs. The use of herbicides also dramatically stresses grass pastures. The levels of
NUTRITION
Enjoy FLEXIBLE payment solutions at The Saddle Hub Mycotoxins are harmful substances produced by bacteria and fungi and can be present in pastures and hays.
potassium and nitrate spike in stressed
The B group vitamins are important for
plants, while sodium declines in pasture
energy metabolism and nervous system
forages. Excessive potassium and nitrate
function. Signs of deficiency include
can be corrected by adequate salt in
decreased appetite and increased
the diet, both as a preventive and when
irritability. The gut microbial population
symptoms are acutely occurring.
is responsible for production of much of the vitamin B that horses require,
Calcium and magnesium levels need to
so horses under emotional or physical
be balanced to maintain normal muscle
stress require a vitamin B supplement.
contraction and relaxation. Ensuring correct dietary balance between calcium, phosphorous and magnesium is critical to optimise uptake and avoid painfully tight muscles after work. There is no scientific evidence to support
Scientists have found that DHA and EPA, the marine-sourced omega-3 fatty acids, can improve cognitive function in humans. Research from many species demonstrates that DHA is essential for normal brain development before and
the use of excessively high levels
after birth. New work is linking EPA to
magnesium or calcium in any form as a
mood and behaviour. Perhaps in future
‘calmer’ or to improve brain function or
we will see research linking marine-
reduce excitability. A high oxalate intake
sourced omega-3 supplementation to
from some C4 pasture species including
improved horse behaviour and learning.
kikuyu, setaria and buffel grass is a common cause of calcium deficiency.
Larissa Bilston, BAgrSc (Hons 1), is a
Many diets lack adequate magnesium
nutritionist with Farmalogic. You’ll find
to achieve an optimal calcium to
a full length version of this informative
magnesium ratio, creating a need for
article in our VIP area. Log in to www.
magnesium oxide supplementation.
equestrianhub.com.au/vip-member/
O
lympic event rider Megan Jones has horses running through her veins. Her greatest equestrian
F E AT U R E
It’s a balancing act
achievements are her silver medal from the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and coming an individual fourth at the same Games – made even more special because it was with Kirby Park Irish Jester (Festy) a homebred horse. “I was the first person to breed, break in, train and medal, all on
Megan Jones is an Olympic eventer, wife, and mother of one. She recently spoke to CHRISTINE ARMISHAW about pregnancy, juggling family and horses, and how she keeps things running smoothly with a human foal at foot.
their own horse at an Olympic Games,” recalls Megan with a smile. Megan was away competing on the weekend Festy was born. “In fact, my sister nabbed him before me because she was there at the time,” Megan says.
F E AT U R E
ABOVE: Finnley, happily stealing Megan’s limelight since 2019 (all images PYT Equestrian Photography). LEFT: Queen of the team, Kirby Park Impress always gives everything she’s got. “She had him for a couple of years
two – I thought we better start actually
Throughout her pregnancy Megan
before he was broken in, but then she
doing this!” she laughs.
stayed busy and kept riding, after all
stopped riding and kinda lost interest, so her horses became mine.” Little did Megan’s sister know that young Festy was going to take her dedicated sibling all the way to the top.
When Megan did fall pregnant, it was still a bit of a surprise for the couple. “We went overseas for a quick trip to the UK for a week, where they flew us around by helicopter to look at horses
Alongside that, Megan has many other
between England and Ireland. I was
equestrian accomplishments to be proud
sick the whole time we were there. I get
of, like a team bronze at the 2006 Aachen
really motion sick from flying anyway so
World Championship and winning the
I thought that that’s what the issue was,
Anna Savage Best and Fairest Award
but it was actually morning sickness, and
three times, just to name a few. However,
I had no idea.”
Megan’s achievements don’t stop with horses. She is also a wife to husband James and, more recently, a proud mother of two-and-a-half-year-old Finnley.
When the couple found out that they were pregnant a month or so later, they kept it under wraps for as long as possible, which led to many an awkward
“this was a baby for James. He could play with it and I’d just keep riding my horses,” she recalls of her thoughts at the time. “I didn’t compete, though I was still riding five or six a day and still jumping at home. I told myself the safe option was to show jump in the arena and to not cross country school. But if I was to have another, not that I am, I wouldn’t ride as much as I did last time, or for as long,” she concedes. Megan stopped riding only about seven weeks before she had Finnley. “I was so small though, and he stayed really, really high,” she says. Her obstetrician decided she should have a caesarean, a decision
Megan is the first to admit that as far as
stare coupled with blaring silences.
having kids goes, she wasn’t previously
“We trucked ten horses interstate to an
clucky. “I never really had a burning
interschool competition for a group of
desire to have a child. Maternally, I felt
parents. On the second day of the comp
pretty fulfilled with teaching all my young
it was a bit hot, so I had to take off my
When the big day came James was
students, as well as breeding my own
big puffer jacket and just had a t-shirt
arguably the more concerned of the
foals,” she says. But James had always
on. You could tell I looked a bit like I’d
two. “He was standing at the back door
wanted a family at some point, which
eaten all the pies,” laughs Megan. But of
waiting and I pulled up on the quad bike
Megan was totally on board with. “Then,
course, no one wanted to be the person
with blood all over my hands because
as I was getting a bit older – I was forty-
to mistakenly ask if she was with child!
I’d had to go cut some proud flesh off
he didn’t take lightly, because he felt Megan was ‘too old and too strong’ from riding to safely deliver on her own.
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 61
62 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
F E AT U R E
With RLE Barina at the Adelaide International, one of Megan’s favourite 3D events. a horse before I left,” she recounts, cracking up. “He’s saying ‘Megan, we’re going to be late, this is non-negotiable!
nature took the helm and Megan needn’t have been concerned. “Once they got him out and showed me his little face, I
and then she took him everywhere she went. “I’d be breastfeeding while doing jump lessons, squatting down to change
You’re having a baby, get in the car!’ I’m
the height of the jump and all that kind
late for everything and James is having a
of stuff. He just hung out with me,” she
complete breakdown while I tell him ‘I’ll be there in a minute, just gotta wash my hands and get changed’,” says Megan, who’s got us both in fits of laughter at this point. “So, three hours later when we finally got to the hospital my doctor said ‘wow, you actually turned up, I can’t believe it, I thought maybe you would have missed the day’.” Although outwardly casual about the
Once they got him out and showed me his little face, I was gone! I was like, mine, mine, mine, don’t come near him, he’s mine!
whole affair, Megan shares some of her inner feelings from that time. “I was really scared about not having a traditional birth, and whether I’d get enough of the right hormones to make me fall in love with the child. I’d been so non-maternal the whole time, was this going to be a disaster or what?” But
says. Clearly, there was no way this baby was ‘just for James’ once he’d arrived! Now, nearly three years later, horses are still an integral part of life and this professional equestrian has continued to keep the show running like a well-oiled machine. Megan captains a tight ship, the success of which is down in no small part to the day-to-day running of the Megan Jones Eventing Team. With the help of three grooms she works eight horses
was gone! I was like, mine, mine, mine, don’t come near him, he’s mine!” And I can hear the love in her voice as she shares this sweet memory. Finnley slotted right in. Megan had a few weeks off while bonding with her son,
a day. “I usually get on the first horse at 6:00am, ride ‘til 11:30am and then teach throughout the afternoon into the evening,” she tells me. “I’ve had to adjust how much I can ride based on how much more mobile Finnley has become as he’s gotten older. But we just timetable it.” E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 63
Job Vacancy: Stud Hand – Yearling
Join Megan Jones Live & Online Authentic Equestrian
AN 8 WEEK PROGRAM Open to all riders, all levels and all ages Course: Live interactive weekly sessions (zoom) Eight topics with weekly tasks Private Facebook group
Baramul Stud, located in the historically rich Widden Valley, is one of the largest privately-owned breeding enterprises in Australia.
Ask questions directly with Megan Training – horse and rider:
– Min of 12 months experience on a commercial stud farm or equiv.
Build connection
– Experience preparing and developing young horses is paramount.
Increase confidence
– Strong horsemanship skills and working knowledge of how to prepare horses for sale.
Discover the 4C's
On the job training will be provided. Attractive salary package to commensurate your skills and experience, including on-farm accommodation with negotiable horse agistment if required to continue your own hobbies and passion. For more information contact us on 02 6547 0506. Send your resume to baramul@baramulstud.com.au
"Megan's astute knowledge of her craft is infectious. Her skills outstanding. I'm learning so much from the weekly zooms." Carolyn, Australia
Next course starts soon! Scan QR code to learn more Call Megan 0417 858 371
Vegetarian, Glycerin-free, Petroleum-free, pH Matched Premium Leather Care
Top ranking riders like Jade Findlay realize that caring for your leather is as important to your horse as buckling on your helmet for every ride is to you. Imagine how good your horse feels when tack maintained with Sterling Essentials touches his delicate skin. You can see how he appreciates the gentle, safe ingredients and your thoughtfulness, can you not? His health is up to you. Take the reins to improve the health and wellness of your horse, your tack, and yourself by using Sterling Essentials, the premier all natural leather care brand for equestrians around the world.
64 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Photo Credit Jade Findlay
F E AT U R E
Between her, James and the stable girls, the crew have got it under control. The whole team has Mondays off and Finnley is home with Mum and Dad, where they enjoy time in each other's company. On Tuesdays and Thursdays it’s day care, while on Wednesdays Finn gets to hang out with his cousin at Megan’s parents. The boys are of similar age, so it’s great fun for them both. Friday is often comp day and the whole family bundles into the truck before hitting the road together for the weekend. When he’s home, Finn goes to cross country lessons with Megan, or ‘helps’ James with farm jobs. “You’ve just got to be a changing beast, you know,” she says. The family simply figure it out and make it work and, if Megan can’t ride for some reason, her awesome girls are able to exercise the horses. So she gets maximum bang for her time available buck, Megan swears by following a few time-saving rules, like washing manes pre-ride so they air dry before rugging the horse back up, and having the ultimate travel kit for super speedy comp preparation. ABOVE: Guhr, a rising star Megan hopes to 4* with next season. BELOW: Toulando lapping up some serious attention.
It’s safe to say that maternal instinct definitely kicked in. “I thought I’d feel really guilty if I couldn’t ride and had to look after a sick child or something. But there’s never an ounce of guilt, he comes first,” Megan says. What’s more, she thinks that the horses are now going better with more days of lunging and hacking out with her girls instead of schooling all the time. “It hasn’t affected the training of the horses or anything like that,” she smiles. “A lot of people tell you that life changes so much when you have a child, but it only changes a lot if you let it.” Sounds like a new family member for the win. Stay tuned for our podcast with Megan when she’ll share her industry secret, top time saving tips, including what goes in that travel kit and her favourite Bunnings hack! To listen, jump on over to our VIP area. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 65
Saddle balance low behind (chair seat). All images courtesy of The Saddlefitter.
H
orse ownership is a demanding and complex pursuit. As responsible horse
SADDLE UP
When to call the fitter
owners we must ensure the wellbeing of our charges, which encompasses everything from the worming regime we use, foot care, pasture management and more. And if we choose to ride our horses, we must also ensure that they are comfortable in their saddles. Research from the UK suggests that to achieve optimum saddle fit, saddles
If you’re unsure whether you, your saddle, and your horse are a good fit for each other, it may be time to call the saddle fitter. KATHRYN SULLIVAN-BUTT shares her expert advice on some saddle fitting basics.
should be checked a minimum of three or four times a year to address the changes in our horse’s shape through the seasons, the needs of the rider, and the wear of the saddle. If you’re not calling on the expert advice of your fitter quite so regularly, then as riders we need to
SADDLE UP
ABOVE: White hairs in the trapezius are a sign your saddle may need adjusting or is wrong for your horse. know: a) how to assess any changes to saddle fit that might have occurred; and b) when an appointment with our
ABOVE: Uneven sweat patterns or ruffles.
Soft swellings on the spine which occur after saddle removal. Muscle atrophy, especially at the
saddle fitter is necessary to prevent small
trapezius and where the rear of the
concerns becoming big issues.
saddle panel sits.
So what aspects of saddle fit should we be checking before calling out our saddle fitter? These indicators fall into three categories: the horse, the saddle, and the rider.
The horse Saddle fit problems can manifest as behavioural issues on the part of the horse, biomechanical restrictions, and pain due to focal pressure points. The following are signals to be aware of as they may indicate your horse is having issues with the fit of your saddle (although it’s important to note that most
Muscle hypertrophy especially at the loin. Rub marks, swelling, and galls in the girth region. Short stepping behind or lack of lateral shoulder movement. Inability to bend around the rider’s leg.
out behind and bucking. Holding their breath under saddle
The saddle the horse and rider. If your saddle is
Uneven sweat marks with ruffling and
being worn unevenly (either in the seat,
saddling: shifting weight, trying to bite, pulling back, unusual stretching, and facial expressions that exhibit pain. White hairs in the saddle and girth region.
down on the saddle, and even a change in stance due to injury to the horse. As a rider, standing back and assessing your saddle balance (girthed up) when your horse is on a flat surface and is standing BELOW: Uneven panel contact affects both horse and rider and can be improved with correct saddle fit.
Our saddles are a reflection of both
be the cause):
becomes agitated on girthing up and
weight fluctuations, panels packing
Stopping and refusing to go forward.
fit, and may therefore require further
‘Girthiness’ – when the horse
changes for many reasons: our horse’s
while ridden.
Unable to rein back in diagonal pairs.
dry patches.
Saddle balance from front to back
Tail swishing, head tossing, kicking
of these can be unrelated to saddle investigation if saddle fit proves not to
Our saddles are a reflection of both the horse and rider.
the panel or in the flaps) it could be an indicator that the saddle is not sitting square, or that changes need to be made. If your saddle is wearing quickly, your saddle fitter can advise on correct leather care to ensure the longevity of your valuable purchase, and can also check the safety of your stirrup leathers, points and stitching. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 67
SADDLE UP
Lateral postural issues in the saddle can be addressed with saddle fit.
square is a good habit to acquire,
may indicate that our saddle balance is
The wrong twist (the narrow waist in the
because your saddle balance will need
incorrect, and that the compensatory
saddle seat), seat size, and knee block
to be addressed if it changes. Ask your
action of our position to maintain balance
can all greatly affect how you sit as a
fitter to help you develop an eye for that
is fatiguing us and causing pain. Lower
rider, as well as your comfort and your
optimum balance. A saddle sitting low in
back pain is particularly common with
ability to effectively and safely ride your
front or behind will affect the comfort of horse and rider. In the same way a saddle that is sitting off to the side will lead to pressure inequality and focal pressure points for the horse, as well as an uneven platform with potential long term issues for the rider.
The rider
horse. An experienced saddle fitter can
Lower back pain is particularly common with saddles sitting low in front.
help you to select the correct saddle shape for your body type. For riders who are returning from injury, your saddle fitter can assist you to balance correctly in the saddle so you will not adversely affect your horse. Riders recovering from injury often shift
Riding is a sport that increases core
saddles sitting low in front. A collapsed
in the saddle and sit to one side, and
strength, and good riding should allow us
postural position and ‘chair seat’ is
there are techniques that help to keep
to build fitness and strength. However,
typically associated with a saddle sitting
the saddle straight so the horse will not
if riding leads to back soreness this
low behind.
be hurt while the rider recovers.
68 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
n i w e N ! e r sto
Bates Victrix 17"
$3,995
ATM Jump 16.5"
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Albion Revelation 17.5"
$6,500
Erreplus Elena 17"
$4,500 Enzo Treviso Lucia Mono 17"
$3,250
Devoucoux Makila Lab 18"
$5,250
Peter Horobin SF Geneva 17.5"
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Platinum Show 17"
Frank Baines Union Lux 17.5"
$2,000
$2,400
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 69
SADDLE UP
The effect of incorrect saddle balance on rider posture.
Discomfort in the saddle Many riders suffer in silence with pubic and seat pain. The right saddle, sometimes even just the right adjustments to your current saddle, can make all the difference to comfort in the pelvic region while you’re riding. For women riding through pregnancy, or for those who are postmenopausal there
Rider balance point forward and even.
For women riding through pregnancy, or for those who are postmenopausal there are significant changes that can affect comfort in the saddle – and ladies, if you are experiencing discomfort then it is definitely time to call your saddle fitter. to achieve. Without an optimal position
The right fitter becomes an important
from the rider, the horse will be
part of your team as you work together
compromised and unable to perform
to ensure maximum comfort and
definitely time to call your saddle fitter.
at its best.
optimum performance.
Rider position is intrinsically linked
Finally, choosing the right fitter is an
to the balance and fit of your saddle.
important consideration. Selecting a
Kathryn Sullivan-Butt is an EA & AHRC
We all aspire to the willowy strength
fitter who is experienced in your brand
coach with over 20 years’ experience,
and classical position of the top riders,
of saddle, and who carries the correct
an Australian and internationally trained
but if the saddle is not working for
hardware to address required changes
saddle fitter, and a Society of Master
you optimally then achieving an ideal
makes a significant difference to the
Saddlers Qualified Fitter. She can be
position will be hard, if not impossible
outcome for both you and your horse.
found at www.thesaddlefitter.com.au
are significant changes that can affect comfort in the saddle – and ladies, if you are experiencing discomfort then it is
70 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
WWW.SYKES.NET.AU
Now Available! Cough Mixture Relieves coughing in horses and cattle. Helps with secretion or expulsion of phlegm, mucus, or other matter from the respiratory system.
Nervine Powder Vitamin B1 supplement for horses under stress. Nervousness, stress and poor performance can be a result of deficiency in essential vitamins, poor quality feed, transporting, after sickness and during periods of high performance work.
White Ointment Zinc based. Allows rapid healing, is a UV protectant and protects against invasive dirt and bacteria.
Isogel Muscle, joint and tendon pain relief. Produces a heating effect when rubbed into sore areas. For deeper pain, Electric Oil is recommended. Use under wet or dry bandages.
Green Ointment Anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. Used on greasy heal, treats ringworm and can be used for minor cuts and abrasions.
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E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 71
The HERO program is a Harness Racing Victoria initiative established in 2015 to assist in creating pathways for retired standardbreds and provide support in their transition from the racetrack to pleasure or performance horses. With over 10 HERO Recognised Retrainers based all throughout Victoria the HERO program is well equipped to provide ample opportunities for standardbred life after racing. To learn more about HERO, visit www.hrvhero.com.au or follow HRV HERO on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For all inquiries please email hero@hrv.org.au or phone 0411 499 051.
The HERO program is proudly supported by
Below are just a few of our off-the-track standardbred horses currently going through the retraining process. For further information on any of these horses, please contact their retrainer.
JASMINE
$2,500
Age: 14
Height: 15.2hh
Sex: Mare
Location: Katatmatite
Retrainer: Marzel Park
Contact: Nicole Touzel 0409 646 390
Jasmine is the ideal all rounder. She is unraced with an established trot and canter. Working kindly in a frame with a beautiful soft mouth, happy to jump and enjoys going out in the bush. She is easily handled and ridden by a 12yo girl. Standing at 15.2hh & 14yo, this eye-catching girl with a beautiful way of going is sure to get noticed in any discipline or out on the trails.
MAJESTIC REIGN “REIGN”
$2,000
Age: 12
Height: 15hh
Sex: Mare
Location: Garfield
Retrainer: Forest View Thoroughbreds
Contact: Amanda Porter 0417 622 329
Majestic Reign retired from her successful racing career after having 14 starts for 8 wins. She is a sweet, kind little mare, well put together, has scarring on near-side hind but this does not affect her. She had 3 foals after her racing career before moving on to her new life under saddle. Reign is currently green broken to saddle and deserves a family to love and dote on her. She is wonderful with other horses, very gentle to be around.
BIG GUN JOHNNY “JOHNNY”
$2,000
Age: 7
Height: 16.1hh
Sex: Gelding
Location: Mount Duneed
Retrainer: Shory Park
Contact: Nikki Cook 0421 506 215
Formerly trained by Mitch Fox of Fox Equestrian Johnny has been started professionally and correctly from an extremely well-regarded show stable. Johnny has attended a number of shows and always brings home a ribbon. Johnny was put out for a short spell and has been brought back into work by the team at Shory Park. Johnny is a very good doer, it would be fabulous to see this boy continue with his show career, already winning broad sashes at just his first outings. Johnny would best suit a confident rider wanting a performance horse. He is not a beginner or nervous rider’s type. A lovely chunk of horse looking for a special home.
All HRV HERO horses come with two complimentary riding lessons with the closest HERO Recognised Retrainer to the purchaser, a FREE membership to Standardbred Pleasure and Performance Horse Association of Victoria, and horse registration for the first year. To view more of our HEROs in training, please visit our website www.hrvhero.com.au and click on 'Available horses'.
O
ver the months we’ve had some exciting glimpses into the great work being done around
LIFE AFTER RACING
Australia to retrain and rehome off the track Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds
New lives, new stories
– oftentimes with spectacular results. And no less exciting are the success stories emerging from Off The Track NSW Inc (OTT NSW Inc). Located in Coffs Harbour, and generously supported by Country Racing Syndications, the organisation is run by a team of dedicated Thoroughbred
It’s probably fair to say that few horses are as misunderstood as the retired racehorse. Often labelled as difficult, anxious, and unpredictable, AMANDA MAC discovered that that’s a long way from the truth.
enthusiasts under the guidance of committee president Cheryl Lantry. With a life-long connection to the racing industry, Cheryl retrained more OTT's than she can remember prior to obtaining her racing NSW trainers’ licence.
L I F E A F T E R R AC I N G
“Thoroughbreds are bold, intelligent,
Starting their show season in led
Another OTT NSW Inc member,
versatile, athletic horses, and our aim
classes only, Megan was rewarded
Samantha Croft of Clark & Croft
is to increase the number of owners
with Supreme Led at their first show.
Bloodstock has a similarly interesting
prepared to take on an OTT racehorse,”
However, although Geron proved to be
tale to tell about her OTT Arrow, a
she tells me. “The transition from racing
very quiet in training, he was also lazy.
Thoroughbred that she had sold as a
to performance or pleasure horse can
“I could see why he never won a race,” Megan laughs.
yearling. Thinking he would make a
be extremely rewarding, and the end result can secure a life of care for the
During his first few months under saddle,
career and every time he ran an
Thoroughbred post racing.”
Geron won the 2017 Queensland Show
ordinary race, Samantha was quick to
Horse Council Large Hack Rising Star,
let his owner know she was interested
and has since won many champion hack
in buying him back. When Arrow was
classes, including Champion Ridden
eventually retired from racing at the end
Thoroughbred at Toowoomba Royal,
of 2016, she more than happily brought
Case in point is the story of OTT Baribo. Owned by OTT NSW Inc member Jolene Cole, Baribo’s previous career as a racehorse was, to put it mildly, less than stellar. But he hit his stride as an endurance horse when in 2019 the pair won the heavyweight division in
Grand Champion Off The Track NSW, and of course, Grand Champion Star of All Stars at OTT NSW Inc’s recent show.
Australia’s most prestigious endurance
For Megan, one of the best things
race, the Tom Quilty Gold Cup. So if
about owning and retraining an OTT
you thought Arabians were the only poster pin-ups for endurance, better think again! Jolene says Baribo has remarkable stamina “an ability to recover and go all day … it’s an honour to own and ride him.” Looks like Baribo found his forever home.
Thoroughbred is the family that comes with them – the stud manager, trainer,
lovely hack, she followed his racing
him home. She remembers only getting in a few weeks of part-time training with Arrow before their first outing at the 2017 Inverell Show. While that proved to be a little early in Arrow’s new career to be
track work rider, even the person who
successful, the pair had a lot of fun and
foaled them down. “You don’t just get a
their partnership blossomed. Samantha
horse, you get a family and a history. My
says Arrow’s show name is now Cupid's
journey with Geron has been the best
Arrow, probably down to the fact that
thing that has ever happened to me.
she’s “completely love struck” by her
He’s my heart horse,” she says.
OTT protégé.
Most horses retiring from racing are eminently suitable for a career in one of the many disciplines celebrated during OTT NSW Inc events. “Currently we stage show jumping, dressage, showing,
LEFT: Simone Bullock and Urrac (L), with Melinda Bullock and Stratums Express enjoyed Fashions Off The Field (Image by Chris Miller Photography). BELOW: Jockey Belinda Hodder presenting Megan and Geron with their Grand Champion Star of All Stars prizes (Image by Chris Miller Photography).
rider and in hand classes,” Cheryl says. “We recently held our Championship show and there were numerous entries in each discipline, with competitors travelling from Canberra, Mudgee, Sydney, Tamworth and Tweed Heads.” One of those competitors was Megan Perrin. Five years ago she began retraining Geron, an OTT retired from the track for being too slow. She saw him for sale on Facebook, and although not looking for a new horse, decided that if he hadn’t sold within 24 hours, he was meant for her. “So I bought an ex race horse sight unseen through Facebook!” she says. But fortunately, it was love at first sight. Very wisely, Megan began Geron’s education slowly, starting with a six month let down to give them time to develop a bond free of pressure. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 75
that’s extremely rewarding if you’re properly educated and prepared for the transition,” she explains. In her considerable experience, starting slowly and giving the horse time to learn simple tasks and get accustomed to a variety of new situations, as well as having the patience to wait until they’re mentally and physically ready before progressing to the next level, can be a deciding factor in the horse’s future. Trying to rush an OTT along can result in a horse that’s not properly prepared for its new life, and is instead confused and uncomfortable. “Worried horses that have been thrown in the deep end Jolene Cole and Baribo won the 2019 heavyweight division in the Tom Quilty Gold Cup (Image by Denise Keelan Photography).
might result in them being labelled as a problem or unsuitable,” Cheryl says, “then the horse’s welfare and future
Thoroughbreds can be very versatile,
in cross training all her horses so they
can be at risk as the chance of them
one of the reasons that Samantha and
rarely get ridden in the same place, or
finding a new and secure forever
Arrow were able to take out second
always do the same thing, which keeps
home diminishes.”
place in the hack ring, followed by a
it fresh and fun for everyone.
But with care, patience and a pinch of
While these and many other re-homing
love, you could very well discover your
success stories are heart-warming,
new heart horse.
second in show jumping at the OTT NSW Inc show. But away from the glamour of the show ring, Arrow’s home life includes mustering cattle,
Cheryl makes the point that re-training an OTT Thoroughbred can sometimes
You can catch up with Off The Track
in a few little quirks, one of which is
be more complex than starting a young
NSW Inc at www.offthetracknsw.org.
shying enthusiastically at threats real
horse. “Taking a Thoroughbred horse
au and if you dream of giving an OTT
and imagined. So to give him something
off the track and giving it a new life
Thoroughbred a new life, contact Cheryl
else to think about, Samantha decided
and purpose will take you on a journey
and her team for more information.
jumping logs, flat work and indulging
to teach him to jump. Not only did he love it, it turned out that he had a real talent. “Unfortunately he still can't be
Second in the Tamworth Aelec Winter Championships, Samantha and Arrow show off their versatility (Image by Oz Shotz Photography).
lead back to his paddock without seeing monsters. But so be it, no one's perfect!” she laughs. “He’s been a challenge at times, but I have never had intentions of selling him.” Life on a busy property includes stock work, so from the very beginning Arrow had to learn to carry sheep, “much to his horror and mine as I'm trying to lift them up that high,” Samantha jokes. But he has some handy additional talents and can cut an escapee crossbred lamb from a mob better than the farm dogs or bike, so that’s become one of his jobs around the farm. That said, Samantha believes 76 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
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S
ince the nineteenth century the Haflinger has made its mark in science, sport and industry; during
HORSE BREED
wars and in times of peace. Named after Hafling, a village in the
The Haf linger
southern Tyrol, the breed originated in 1874 when a foal was born at Josef Folie’s stud in Sluderno, now part of northern Italy. By Arabian El Bedavi XXII out of a local
Sometimes known as the Avelignese, Haflingers are athletic, energetic and have a natural tendency to be balanced and light on the forehand. SUZY JARRATT takes an in-depth look at this remarkable breed.
mare, the foal, a colt named Folie after its owner, had a distinctive chestnut coat with a dorsal stripe. History records that he was ‘deeply muscled with Arabian noblesse, long
HORSE BREED
LEFT: Ridden by Jodie Peever, Trish Skelton’s Bunderra Nearco has more recently been trained in dressage (Image by Glenys Lilley, Foxwood Photography). BELOW: Trick riding practice with Stella and her Haflinger. vehicle was manufactured which could
the company’s direction changed these
carry heavy loads – it was named ‘The
horses were sold into private ownership
Haflinger’! As is a range of slippers and
and small breeders took over, imported
clogs made in Germany simply because
more and expanded the numbers.”
the horse is a favourite of the shoe company’s founder.
Paul and his wife, Sharon, run Fernances Creek Haflingers located in the Lower
In May 2003 the breed made
Hunter Valley of NSW. They took over
international news. It was announced
from Paul’s parents 30 years ago. “My
that the world’s first cloned horse – a
parents bought a Haflinger in the mid-
healthy Haflinger filly who scientists
eighties. I didn’t pay much attention
named Prometea - had been born in
then but after spending time in Germany
Cremona, Italy, to a genetically identical
where, of course, they are so abundant, I
surrogate mother. It was declared a
developed a more active interest when I
breakthrough for the equine world and
returned home,” Paul says.
heralded the cloning of elite horses for polo and the racing industry.
While away he witnessed the popularity of the breed. He visited Merano in
This is a breed which today is
South Tyrol to watch celebrations
enormously popular in Europe. In
commemorating the start of the racing
Germany alone it has been reported
season, when scores of Haflingers are
that every third pony is a Haflinger. And
ridden and driven through the streets,
there are many in the United States.
and local farmers, in traditional costume,
In Australia there are only about 800,
participate in the annual Haflinger Gallop.
and there were none before 1974 when the Dalgety Land Company imported seven from Austria, selling them five years later.
Paul says that in recent years there has been a surge of imported bloodlines into this country, and the availability of diverse stallions and mares has
Paul Groves, president of the Australian
improved the overall Australian herd.
Haflinger Breeding and Sports
“The introduction of Haflinger AI has
Association (AHBSA) explains: “Because
also opened up new possibilities for
sloped shoulders, a strong back and joints, straight croup, a long and correct stride and magnificent temperament’. All Haflingers today trace their lineage through one of seven stallion lines to Folie. Originally, they were used by farmers and traders to navigate the narrow Tyrolean trails. They were ridden, pulled carriages and carried goods and, because of their strength and agility, many were utilised by the military as packhorses during both world wars. Justifiably, they developed a reputation for being robust and hardworking. In Austria in the late fifties a light utility E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 79
EQUESTRIAN HUB | BOUTIQUE
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80 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
HORSE BREED
first golden horse. “I’d always wanted a pretty pony and the Haflingers caught my eye.” Her parents liked them, too, and bought Nero, who was so appealing they purchased Nevada a few months later. Stella’s interest in trick riding began, first training on Nero, and then on Nevada as her confidence grew. Schooled by Mikayla Barber and Hollie Shiels, formerly from the Girls Girls Girls stunt team, Stella became pretty handy at suicide drags, layovers and other tricky manoeuvres executed at high speed as her horses’ long manes and tails flew in the wind. They performed at shows and festivals delighting audiences. ”They’re both so willing”, says 15-year-old Stella, “anything I’ve asked of them such as jumping and mounted archery, they’ve done. And they’re really great with beginners. Nero is presently away being a therapy horse.” She points out that Haflingers are good ‘doers’. “We just give them hay, plus a few supplements. They have a different metabolism to other horses and tend to quickly become ‘fatlingers’ if overfed!” Trish Skelton’s love affair with the breed began when she purchased Bunderra Nearco as an unbroken three-and-a-halfyear-old. Now 20 months old, Affogato will become Mirabelle Farm’s stallion at stud if he passes his three-year-old classification (Image courtesy Mirabelle Farm).
Trish showed the gelding for ten years. “He was a Haflinger national champion
breeders and clients looking for a
return to more traditional roots. During
on four occasions, three of which
particular type of horse,” he says. “Both
the war years, they were bred with
were in consecutive years,” she says
our stallions are offspring from imported
characteristics giving them the ability
proudly. “He won a champion led class
Austrian bloodlines, and we offer both
to pull armaments. The German army
at Melbourne Royal, and graced the
modern and traditional types.”
was interested in this type, resulting in
cover of the 20th anniversary edition of
He says that there are now two distinct
the horses losing height and gaining
EQUITANA’s magazine. More recently
body shapes. “One has an athletic
bulk. Now there are many breeders
he’s been in dressage training. He’s 14hh
build and is finer across the chest and
endeavouring to return the horse to
and chunky enough to carry weight while
rump. The other is somewhat smaller
what some would call its ‘original’ taller,
still being eligible for pony dressage.”
and stockier. They’re the ones working
athletic shape. We’re focused on the use
extensively on the land in Europe.”
of Haflingers in a sporting context, and
According to Paul, Haflinger terminology
they’re ideal for riders of all ages.”
She considers Nearco a super star. “I’ve had some amazing offers over the years but I’d never part with him. He’s brought
is a bit tricky. “What is today called the
Stella Doherty from the Sunshine Coast
so much happiness and enjoyment to all
‘modern’ Haflinger is, in some way, a
was only young when she owned her
my family and friends.” E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 81
HORSE BREED
breeder who wants to stay around 140 centimetres. My feeling is that if a Haflinger rider wants to be competitive they should, perhaps, aim for pony dressage events where entrants mustn’t exceed 148 centimetres.” No matter what their size Haflingers are likely to gain in popularity in Australia – they have so much going for them. On its website, the AHBSA notes that the breed has become one of the most strictly regulated and highly selective in the world. Each Haflinger is required to pass rigorous checks before they are given the seal of approval, these days with a microchip rather than the traditional edelweiss flower brand. During inspections, the horse’s conformation, soundness, size, movement, temperament, colour and fertility are all taken into consideration. Horses that don’t make the grade are not passed, which has resulted in a breed that is good-natured, sound, fertile and hardy. What is there not to like? Learn more at the AHBSA’s informative Bunderra Nearco has enjoyed outstanding success in the show ring (Image by Glenys Lilley, Foxwood Photography). Trish has owned her Haflinger since
She is a strong believer in the breed’s
2004, Amanda Flood met hers in 2010.
versatility. “These horses can do
Amanda runs Mirabelle Farm on the
Pony Club, trail riding, cattle cutting
Mornington Peninsula. After being
– anything. Their 2015 World Show
away from all things equestrian for 28
which I visited at Ebbs in the Tyrol
years she wanted to get back to that
highlighted their adaptability. I saw
lifestyle, but not with a Thoroughbred or
sports I never knew existed: riders being
Warmblood. “And I didn’t want to squash
pulled on snow skis, as well as western
a fine pony. I was attracted to a heavier
riding, show jumping, long reining and
type, suitable for a middle-aged woman
competitive carriage driving. It was such
like myself, and after extensive research
an eye-opener. They’re not designed
swayed towards this breed because the
for one specific thing like a Warmblood,
Haflinger classification process includes
they’re an all-rounder.”
a temperament component which I think is really sensible.”
website: www.haflinger.org.au/ haflingers-in-australia
At Mirabelle Farm she only produces a few horses annually. “I’m introducing
After working long and hard with John
blood that will help alleviate what I see
Chatterton, “an amazing horseman
is a problem here. Height is what a lot of
from Queensland,” Amanda became
people are looking for whereas my main
competent and comfortable handling
protocol for breeding is temperament,
and training young stock from the ground.
and I’m probably the only Australian
82 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Haflingers are good doers and care must be taken not to overfeed them.
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Epona Elite Ella Ladies Long Sleeve Base layer.
T
he sun is out, the birds are chirping and it’s finally getting warm enough to peel off some
layers. So as the days become longer
F E AT U R E
and you have more time to ride, you can ditch the heavy outerwear and slip into
Spring sensations
some of the latest beautiful, lightweight equine fashions just in time for spring. Whether you’re schooling at home or enjoying a lesson, there’s a hot trend in the pants department. Save your
With the continued uncertainty in our lives, spring’s arrival couldn’t be more welcome. So don’t hesitate, it’s time to revitalise your wardrobe with some stylish, on-trend riding wear.
breeches for the competition arena and let comfort combined with fashion reign supreme with a pair of riding tights. Growing more and more popular, if you’re still sitting on the fence with this
F E AT U R E
ABOVE: Ringers Western Pentecost River Women’s Sleeveless Work Shirt.
ABOVE: Horze Laurel Vest.
ABOVE: Epona Elite Grace Ladies Polo Shirt.
one, try riding in a good pair to see what
for extra security in the saddle seal the
While the days are still feeling fresh,
all the fuss is about.
deal for us. What’s not to love?
bare arms may not be for you just
Step out in style with the stretch, comfort
While the colours for tights and
and feel of yoga pants, coupled with
jeans this season are simple and
the grippy knees and seat of traditional
straightforward, designers have
jodhpurs. Fun silicon grip prints are
launched happy, bold colours to pop on
super for that added staying-aboard
top! If the arrival of the warmer weather
adhesion. Features and options abound
makes you want to let your personality
with cell phone pockets, belt loops,
shine bright, this is your moment. Paint
pretty bits of bling and more, so you’ll certainly find the perfect pair to suit your mood - a must have for every rider. Plus, if you need to swing by the shops on the way to or from the stables, you’ll fit right in with the current activewear vibe. The fashion colour palette for our lower halves is more muted this season,
yet. For added atmospheric buffering, long sleeve base layers are a super choice. Different weights offer various levels of insulation to banish any chilly spring morning breeze. Pick something moisture-wicking to keep you dry even when you start to turn up the heat. Plus a four-way stretch for fit and freedom of
box options like pastel mint, soft pink
movement, and a neck zipper to adjust
or teal are box-tickers, or stand out
to the temperature are both ideal.
in a statement piece with chevron stripes; two-toned navy and peach; or something with some floral flair. Of course, classic black is always on the radar for a flattering, edgy look.
As the season progresses and it starts to heat up, base layers can also offer protection from our hot Australian sun. Choose from styles that have built-in UV protection. SPF30 and SPF50 are readily
featuring the core classics of black, navy
If you’re well and truly ready to feel
available and are well worth it if you’re
and wine, ideal foundation pieces for
the sun on your skin, short sleeves
out in the saddle during the peak of the
any rider’s wardrobe.
are where it’s at. Polo shirts are still a
day. In hotter weather, or when you're
much loved favourite, with their bright
really moving and getting a workout,
considering for great fit, feel and comfort
colours, moisture-wicking ability, and
staying fresh is key. We love breathable
in the saddle is a pair of horse riding
timeless style. Riding T-shirts of the less
fabric, antibacterial odour reduction and,
jeans. With well thought out features,
traditional variety are also making an
the best bit, cooling mesh inner sleeves
like being high waisted with inbuilt
appearance in the form of eco focused
- the ultimate base layer recipe.
tummy support, a thigh pocket for your
equestrian wear. Made from recycled
If it’s something less fitted you fancy,
phone, and hidden underfoot keepers
plastic bottles that would otherwise have
relaxed-fit shirts are an excellent spring
to make sure they stay in place at any
ended up in landfill or in our oceans,
choice. Find yourself a cool cotton
pace, you’ll hardly want to take them off.
these are pieces you can feel good
blend, collared number for an all-over,
A seamless inner leg, plus a suede seat
about wearing every time you mount up.
lightweight level of protection from both
Another legwear option worth
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 85
EQUESTRIAN HUB | BOUTIQUE
ALL THINGS SPRING Get ready for those glorious sunny days ahead 1
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86 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
7
F E AT U R E
LEFT: Horze Breathable Crystal Cuff Gloves. BELOW: Horizon Horse Riding Jeans.
the sun and wind. But relaxed doesn’t
front zip can make for a cool twist on
mean boring. Available in fun colours like
a traditional style. Water repellent
pastel pink, lemon yellow, cactus green
and windproof, a good vest can
and pistachio, work shirts like these
bring your comfort level up quite
will brighten up any rider’s day. Double
a few notches.
buttoned breast pockets keep your necessities secure, while sleeves that roll up and button out of the way let you get your hands dirty while keeping your shirt clean. No more water dripping along your sleeves to your elbows when you get stuck into spring cleaning your horse!
To keep yourself snug for just a while longer, go one layer more with an on-trend, tailored hoodie. Choose from a pullover or zip-up front, with a corded hood and kangaroo
Spring is a finicky season. The days can
pouch to keep your
start cool before heating up, so the trick
hands and neck
is to layer up and then remove one layer
warm while you wait
at a time as temperatures rise. A stylish
for the sun to get
vest to keep you warm and looking
going on fresh spring
oh, so smart is an equestrian fashion
mornings. Cherry
essential. Puffer vests are ideal, styled to
blossom pink and night
flatter a woman’s body with both the cut
blue are our favourite
of the garment and just the right amount
hoodie colours – but
of angled stitching on the puffs to keep
you can choose to suit
you looking great. If you like to keep the
your mood.
rest of your equestrian wardrobe more muted, a bold vest can be the cherry on top when it comes to letting your glamour side out.
Spring grass doesn’t grow without seasonal rain, so if you do find yourself caught
We’re seeing figure-flattering, down-
in a semi-tropical
filled vests in metallic gold and bronze
downpour, or in the
strutting onto the scene. Tailored for the
midst of a whipping
ultimate in fit, the addition of stretchable
spring wind, it’s worth
panels at the back allow for perfect
having a light jacket
comfort while in the saddle. Two-way
on hand. Soft shells
zippers are the way to go and, if you
are perfect for adding
like something a bit different, an off-set
layers without too E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 87
F E AT U R E
ABOVE: ELT Fargo Hoodie. ABOVE RIGHT: Ariat Women's Showstopper 3.0 Short Sleeve Show Shirt. BELOW: Ariat EOS Full Seat Tight. much additional bulk. A full-length zip is
Good gloves are an essential for any
the standard set-up, but it’s interesting
rider and you don’t have to compromise
to note that quarter zip soft shells are
your grip just because it’s getting
also available as handy fleece-backed,
warmer. There are a couple of tracks
mid-layer pieces. In either case, zip up
you can go down in this department.
pockets and thumbholes finish the job.
Consider a pair made of sweat-wicking
A vest over a soft shell still allows for
Lycra, a handy form of moisture
freedom of movement, but keeps in the
management. Or, choose a pair made
heat when you need it.
with breathable mesh-backing to keep
Lightly quilted jackets are another
you cooler while you keep a contact.
stylish look catching our eye around
Want to use your phone to check a
the stables this season. We’re all over
message before mounting up? You
the alternating stitching lines, which
can leave your gloves on when you’re
create a feminine and fitted silhouette,
wearing touch screen compatible
while thumb holes at the cuffs add
feather touch fingertips. Add extra
to the overall quality and feel. For
reinforcing on the rein-holding fingers
a sophisticated look try out colour
and you get the best of both worlds with
blocking, with the chest, upper back
durability as well as sensitivity. Silicon
and inner arms contrasting to the body
print on the palms keep the reins in your
of the jacket. Looking and feeling this
hands, while a little bling detailing on
good will make you want to keep these
adjustable Velcro wrist closures will add
jackets on even beyond the barn.
spring time sparkle to your ride.
88 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
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90 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
SADDLE REVIEW
Prestige X-Helen With blocks that follow the horse’s anatomy and a design that allows the rider close contact without hindering movement, this saddle is a real winner. Horses have brought Katrina Park a
with horses of all ages, leading to the
However, Katrina decided it was time
range of globe-trotting experiences.
development of her business Cadence
to upgrade to a new saddle to be used
Born in the UK she grew up feeding
Horse Training. Based in Nar Nar Goon,
long term, something that would be
ponies at the local riding school, an
Victoria, Katrina offers a range of training
a good fit for them both. In particular,
activity that later evolved into riding
programs and online courses, all backed
Lucifer, who was still growing, needed a
lessons. Some years down the track,
by her knowledge of biomechanics,
saddle that gave his shoulders freedom
and she had earned a Diploma in Equine
exercise physiology and rehabilitation,
of movement.
Studies, followed by a Bachelor then a
skills which blend perfectly with her
Masters in Equine Science.
aptitude for training horses.
Her tutor encouraged her to apply for
Katrina’s current horse Lucifer is a six-
which would be wide enough to
an internship with Kentucky Equine
year-old Warmblood gelding. He came
accommodate Lucifer, with a narrow
Research in the US, an application
to her as a two-year-old and although
twist to suit Katrina.
that was successful. After completing
he wasn’t always “the nicest person to
the 12 month internship, Katrina was
be around,” he was quite smart and very
invited to manage the Caddel Equine
good looking. Originally planning to take
Rehabilitation Centre, which she did for
him on as a project horse, his charm won
six years.
Katrina over. Since those early days he’s
Her US adventure came to an end
come along in leaps and bounds under
when relatives in Melbourne invited
her guidance, and no longer lives up to
Katrina’s saddle fitter recommended the Prestige X-Helen Dressage saddle,
After finding The Saddle Hub through Facebook, Katrina was delighted to discover that they had a Prestige X-Helen available. A seamless, stress-free experience with prompt communication and shipping followed. Katrina had a few questions for the
her to come and explore Australia – an
his namesake!
opportunity which she eagerly accepted.
Lucifer was first ridden in a Bates Arena,
answered with The Saddle Hub acting
After finding employment on a stud
purchased as an interim saddle while
as “an excellent middleman.”
farm, she started training and working
he was being started and still growing.
saddle’s owner, which were quickly
After a tick of approval from the saddle fitter, Lucifer is now enjoying his comfortable new saddle and showing great improvement. Meanwhile Katrina, who plans to compete with Lucifer in the near future, loves the secure and correct position the Prestige X-Helen puts her in. Even better, the saddle has been successfully refitted several times as Lucifer continues to grow. The Saddle Hub has a wide variety of top quality second-hand saddles, so why wait? Visit www.equestrianhub.com.au
Katrina and Lucifer look more than comfortable in their Prestige X-Helen Dressage saddle.
and browse through their fantastic range. All saddles come with a two-week trial, finance options, and a courier right to your door. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 91
2019 CCN4* Short Summer Classic winners Shane Rose and Virgil are just one of the many partnerships Carolyn has judged. All images by Stephen Mowbray Photography.
H
ave you ever got your scores and said to yourself or a fellow competitor ‘but I thought I did a
good test. I don’t think the judge liked me’.
O N M Y TAC K B OX
Improving your scores
Here are some possible explanations from the judge’s point of view as to why your scores weren’t all that you’d hoped for, as well as some tips that might help you to achieve a better score. So often you see things when judging that you wish you could tell the rider at the time because you know they’d make such a difference. And therein lies the
An FEI Level 3 Eventing Judge, EA Dressage Judge and EA Coach, CAROLYN JAMES has judged many of Australia’s finest riders. Here she shares some expert pointers on how you can improve your dressage scores.
value of protocol days when you can talk to the rider and work on problem areas. That being said, we are always happy to discuss the test with you after the event. Just remember that everyone, judges and riders alike, are trying to do
O N M Y TAC K B OX
their best but given time constraints,
they come and write for me because
In training your horse, be adaptable.
it is not always easy to have these
it helps them understand the common
Perhaps not everything that you planned
conversations, which should be both
mistakes people make, and to see that
to do that day will work. It has been said
positive and constructive.
we judges are trying to help riders with
that the difference between a good rider
our comments.
and a great rider is feel. Ride what you
As a judge, our job is to use the scale
have at that time and moment, and if
of marks in assessing the combination
As a rider I understand the frustration
according to the scale of training, and
when things are not going to plan.
to try to ensure we give constructive
Some time ago a rider who has had a
comments in order to assist the
lot of success at FEI eventing wrote for
Always spend enough time in walk and
partnership in their further training and
me at the Sydney International. On this
really stretch your horse over the back
development. If the movement is good
occasion I was on the long side. The
and use suppling exercises to help
it should be scored an eight, and if
rider said: “I had no idea how different
longitudinal and lateral suppleness,
insufficient a four – and the comments
it looks from here. It’s so obvious
ensuring that they are mentally as well
should reflect these scores. A 10 is
when the halt is not at the marker or
as physically prepared for the work to
excellent (not perfect), and if there is
not square, and I can clearly see the
come. And remember to give breaks
nothing that could have been done
balance, engagement and frame.”
and reward them for a job well done.
better, then why not award that score.
And, by the way, it is where judges are
A great reference is the FEI Dressage
positioned that often accounts for any
Handbook Guidelines for Judging.
differences between their marks.
I often suggest to riders who might
But now let’s look at strategies that may
take time to stretch before the session?
be stressing about being judged that
help you to improve your score.
A rider who is stiff and tight will not be
something is not working then change it. Go back to something that does work.
Not only does your horse have to work on being stronger, more supple and flexible, so do you! How many of us remember to
Another dressage test judged by Carolyn – Amanda Ross and Di Cavalli Diesel at the 2019 Sydney International CCI4* Short.
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 93
O N M Y TAC K B OX
Carolyn judged Stuart Tinney and Celebration at the 2020 Wallaby Hill International 3D Event. able to work in harmony with the horse.
arena dimensions, the geometry of each
Prepare for the transition with a half halt,
Pilates and yoga are both great for riders
figure, where each movement starts
and think: get straight, now rhythm and
and certainly improve strength, flexibility,
and finishes, and be sure to read the
correct tempo not speed!
balance and core strength.
directives. All too often riders do not ride
Also work on your body alignment. A horse cannot be expected to perform a correct shoulder in if the rider is crooked, and all too often the rider doesn’t even realise that they are crooked. Which brings me to my next point: wherever possible, have a pair of experienced eyes on the ground, someone who is able to assist you and alert you to issues that you aren’t aware of. At the competition have a plan for your warm up routine. All horses are different so know what works for your particular horse. Allow yourself plenty of time so that you are not rushed or stressed. And do not change your tack just before a competition - always practice in the
a corner correctly and then have little time to prepare for a movement across the diagonal. Ride each movement and not just the pattern. For example, not just
The size of your circles is where we often see marks thrown away. Having said that, the quality of the paces is so important.
Whilst we are not judging when you are outside the arena it is still important to give a good impression. Remember to look confident as you come down the centre line. It’s the first impression of you that the judge has, so enter and ride for that 10. As someone once said, dare the judge to take marks off you! Prepare for transitions within and when changing the pace with half halts. When halting try to show immobility, but if your horse is tense do not hold it for too long. If carrying a whip do not salute with the whip hand and try to use peripheral vision to find the marker, which like all things, takes practice. The directives are there to help you. For
centre line C track right, MXK medium
instance, a halt includes the transitions
trot, K collected trot – but talk yourself
in and out. As previously mentioned,
Know your test and visualise riding the
through it, use the corner. Ask yourself,
accuracy is important. The size of your
movements perfectly. Be aware of the
have I got him around my inside leg?
circles is where we often see marks
equipment you are going to ride in.
94 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
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O N M Y TAC K B OX
Christine Bates riding Adelaide Hill delivered a winning score at the 2020 Wallaby Hill International under Carolyn’s watchful eye.
thrown away. Having said that, the
educational platforms out there and we
quality of the paces is so important.
never stop learning.
However, an accurately ridden, obedient test with a horse that does not possess extravagant paces is capable of gaining some good marks.
So read the comments on your tests and work with your trainer on areas that need improvement. Remember the word ‘dresseur’ means to train, and
If something goes wrong during a
the aim is to produce through correct
movement put it behind you and ride
training a horse that is balanced, and
the next one positively. Remember, an
developing greater flexibility, strength
improvement in one mark per movement
and responsiveness to the aids, which
equates to a 10 per cent improvement on
in turn should help create a harmonious
your overall score. And finally, look at the
picture and a happy equine athlete.
test to see where the coefficients are.
I hope these pointers have been helpful.
It is a great idea to watch tests from
Enjoy the journey with your horse and
some of the professional riders both
remember that there are no shortcuts.
here in Australia and overseas. Live
Shortcuts cannot replace the good basic
telecasts and on demand replays
training that creates building blocks you
are great for this. There are so many
can always return to.
Where Carolyn goes, her mascots go: a Highland bear from the Isle of Skye, and Willberry, the fundraiser for Hannah's Willberry Wonder Pony Charity (Image by Carolyn James). E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 97
TRAINING TIPS
W
hatever your discipline, it's a bit short sighted to think a horse will ride any better
than he handles on the ground.
From the ground up
Reluctance to spend time with groundwork can often be down to a bit of laziness on the rider’s part, or not knowing what good groundwork skills actually are. Some people think they can lunge a horse and tire it out enough to get on safely – but if you think it won’t buck
Rodeoing, training, breeding, showing, KEN FAULKNER has been involved with horses for most of his life. He teaches Natural Horsemanship around the globe and is a stickler for good groundwork.
you off if it’s going to, you’re dreaming! Horses don’t buck physically, they buck emotionally, and the conventional style of lunging won’t do much for your horse mentally or emotionally. You’re really just warming him up, so if he’s in a
Move the horse’s front end around in a circle using pressure on the side of his nose, making sure he looks in the direction of the turn. RIGHT: Rub the horse where the saddle will eventually go.
All images courtesy Australian Horsemanship.
negative state of mind you'll actually be
looking for a lateral bend, and we get this
and reluctant to move, it's because we
helping him to buck you off!
by shortening the lead rope and rubbing
haven't stimulated them and got them
the horse along his neck, side and rump
past the idea of resisting pressure. So,
Groundwork is the best way to get the emotions fixed before you get into the saddle to work on the physical. But like any training principle, there should be
while using a gentle pulsing (I call it milking) on the lead rope to encourage him to turn his head and release, with the
holding the halter rope, stand beside your horse’s body and using fingertip
bend running right through his body: poll,
pressure in the area of your leg position,
neck, shoulder and ribs. If he won’t flex,
ask the horse to move around you in a
ask him to move his hindquarters a step
lateral bend. Work on this until your horse
and try again.
responds to a light touch.
I have a particular outcome in mind –
Groundwork Skill Two: Yield to feel
in others words, there’s a point to them.
One of the miracles of horsemanship
The super seven
is getting a prey animal to yield to feel.
Groundwork Skill Three: Get your horse to notice the energy in your body and to shift his energy in response
a point to it – and you need to have the patience to give the horse enough time to see the point. With all the groundwork skills I use,
Groundwork Skill One: Lateral Flexion
We use our hands, feet, reins, the bit,
How do you know your horse is solid
animals push against pressure. That’s
energy in my body increases and he
enough to be quiet? He can bend. A
why some horses are heavy when they’re
should notice and shift his feet in a lateral
defensive horse won’t bend. So, we’re
ridden. When they’re heavy to the legs
step. As I breathe out, he should relax.
but what we don’t recognise is that prey
If I stand tall and breath in deeply, the
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 99
TRAINING TIPS
the horse as he circles and gently milk the lead rope to encourage the nose in while pointing a stick (I prefer an inflexible stick or pole to a whip) at his hindquarters. If he refuses to bend, stop him and start again. This is all about transitions, flexion and turns, not the number of circles. When the back legs and front legs step equally in their stride, that means they’re engaged and the horse is pushing with his hindquarters rather than front end.
Groundwork Skill Six: Sideways/Lateral movement Can my horse step laterally on an angle or square? Encourage this by blocking his forward motion either by pressure on his halter or standing in front of him, while asking him to step sideways by tapping him on his ribs with your stick.
Groundwork Skill Seven: Addressing the horse's natural sense of claustrophobia In their natural state, horses have a flight line. Anything that challenges their ability to run (horse floats, alley ways, stables, any enclosed area) increases their claustrophobia. So I might ask him to step between me and a fence, or to jump over, go through, or around something, perhaps a tarp, or a horse rug over his body, or ask him to walk between some barrels.
Pre-flight check To me, groundwork is a great pre-flight check. It's a great way to get together with your horse before you get on. One of the biggest de-trainers of horses is surplus energy, and groundwork skills are A well trained horse with a good foundation becomes a willing partner.
Groundwork Skill Four: This is an impulsion check
a great way to regulate that energy so when you get on, you don’t have to hang on to the reins to hold the horse back.
How soft are your horse’s feet? Does he
Groundwork Skill Five: The essence of circles is lateral flexion in movement
move his feet freely and easily when we
Can the horse keep his inside back leg
and emotionally settled. Then we just
ask him to go backwards and forwards a
tracked with his outside front leg while
hop on and do the same groundwork
few steps, or is he reluctant? The more
he’s lunged on a 10 metre circle? The
techniques again, the only difference is
relaxed they are the more relaxed their
circles are pretty much irrelevant - it’s
now we’re on their back.
feet. Nervous horses have nervous feet,
his balance as he learns to do transitions
I do groundwork with all my horses. With
lazy horses drag their feet.
and turns that’s important. Focus on
a young, green or unstarted horse it’s
100 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Once we’ve run through our groundwork skills, the horse will be more balanced
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TRAINING TIPS
Ask the horse to step softly and willingly backwards from slight pressure on the front of his nose. to teach him control and the ‘buttons’
back. Be able to direct the hindquarters
side, nature tells him he’s at the end of
or cues that I need him to have for the
off a straight line. A defensive horse won’t
the flight line and he’ll relax.
rest of his life. For my older horses,
bend laterally because as a prey animal,
groundwork is their stretching and
they want to be straight so they can run
Pilates exercises. As a horse gets older,
away. If you can move the hindquarters
we see that style of horse being ridden
laterally, you’re telling them they’re at the
all the time, high headed horses with
I need to keep him supple and healthy if I want him to live and function into old age. And with every animal, us included, stretching is good for you. With my young horses I might spend anything up to half an hour or more on groundwork before I get on them. For my partnership horses, I spend a lot less time on groundwork but I make sure I’ve worked them into a good place before I get on. For my advanced horses I just give them a little pre-flight check that might only take 30 seconds to a couple
A really defensive horse will want to stay straight with his head elevated. And
hollow backs running on their shoulders.
If you have a horse that doesn’t want to bend, get off, stand beside them and keep working with them until they can bend.
As the head lifts, they brace their front legs and they’ll resist forward motion whether you’re leading them or trying to ride them. To improve your horse’s balance and disposition, lateral flexion is your friend. If you have a horse that doesn’t want to bend, get off, stand beside them and keep working with them until they can bend. If he’s stiff and straight, he's not going to give you a good ride anyway.
of minutes. end of their flight line. The flight line is
Create your dream horse
And to that I would add if you want to
the distance they run after they’ve been
So many people get hurt because
be safe, own the horse’s hindquarters
negatively stimulated or pressured. So
they’re not setting their horses up
whether you’re on the ground or on his
when he moves his hindquarters to the
properly. We've got better horses than
Own the hindquarters
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 103
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TRAINING TIPS
we've ever had, yet our knowledge of basic horsemanship is less. A lot of us go straight from the breaker into competition training, and then we wonder why the horse gets over-faced and blows up. We blame the training but it's not that. It’s because we forgot to educate them. You can’t train an uneducated horse, and you can’t educate an uncontrolled horse. And they're the three stages of your horse’s life: control, educate, and then train. Horses are supposed to be fun. Take time to make your horse into the horse of your dreams. The horse of your dreams is a generous, honest, reliable, trustworthy horse. And you don't just get that, you build it through good training. To find out more, visit www. australiannaturalhorsemanship.com – and you’ll find a full length version of this fascinating article in our VIP area. Log in to www.equestrianhub.com.au/ vip-member/
ABOVE: Rub the horse while he is standing still in a bend to relax. BELOW: Teach the horse to move his hindquarters from the gentle consistent pressure of your hand.
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 105
Competing in the 2021 Prix St Georges Sky Park Dressage Championships at Werribee (Image by Shoulder Fore Photography).
to competing at Prix St. Georges and Intermediate I level.
YO U N G R I D E R
Ahead of her time With an extraordinary string of successes already behind her, the dressage world is Bella Plumridge’s oyster. CLAUDIA BRODTKE learned more about a young rider whose career has so far been stellar.
W
inner of the Sydney 2019 CDI-P and 2021 CD-Lite P, 2021 CDN-P Australian Freestyle Record holder, 2021 FEI Pony Winner at the Victorian Young Rider Youth Championships and the Boneo Classic, and winner of the 2019 Australian Leg of the World Youth
Dressage Challenge Championship and Overall World Youth Dressage Challenge Champions (pipping over 60 other riders worldwide to the post in the process), at just 15 years old Bella Plumridge has enjoyed remarkable success – and all on the Arabian Riding Pony she has ridden from elementary
106 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Hailing from Victoria’s Yarra Valley, Bella grew up watching her mum training with Charlotte Pedersen, who has coached Bella since she started riding. Surrounded by dressage horses, Bella was entranced and watched the movements in awe, dreaming of one day riding them herself. Bella has ridden for as long as she can remember and as soon she was able to ride off the lead, she attended Pony Club and found her favourite disciplines in dressage and show jumping. Her first pony, Lily, a 12.2hh pocket rocket arrived when she was four. A year later and Jerry came along, a four-year-old breaker who was so bombproof that she remembers having to work hard to encourage forward motion! Currently Bella has four horses in work: FEI Small Tour Arabian Riding Pony Illawong Harvest Moon (bred by Kate Law) has been her partner for five years, and Tres Bonne NZ, a 16hh Warmblood x Thoroughbred x Clydesdale is
YOUNG RIDER
Bella’s jumping favourite. Then there’s Snapdragon, a 16.2hh homebred Warmblood breaker out of her mum’s FEI horse, and lastly Blueberry Twist, a blue roan Welsh D bought as a project and since stealing Bella’s heart. Aiming to work with each horse four times a week can be a challenge when you’re trying to balance getting up at 5:30am to clean out stables, school, and riding one or two horses every night! But Bella’s love of dressage helps to motivate her through some very long days. She says that the appeal of dressage is everything: “It’s all about the time you put in behind the scenes training and making a connection with your horse, and that you can always improve and aim to do things better in competitions where every mark counts.” Bella’s been a member of the Victorian Young Rider Squad since she was ten. On their A Squad for the past two years, she says it's been "an amazing experience." As a squad member, she’s been expertly mentored while having the opportunity to develop her riding, theoretical knowledge, and fitness, as well as enjoying support from close friends who are there for each other through the ups and downs of what can be an exacting sport. As well as continuing to develop her current team, Bella would also like to ride and train other horses with a dream of one day representing Australia at either the Olympics or WEG. But ever practical, she’s planning to study psychology at university, a career she says she will enjoy, and one that would help finance her equestrian dreams.
Bella and Illawong Harvest Moon were Small Tour champions at the 2021 Boneo Park Inter 1 (Image by One Eyed Frog Photography).
Success such as Bella’s doesn’t come without support, and her ‘thank you’ list includes her parents, especially her mum; her coach Charlotte Pedersen; Jan Smith and the Victorian Young Rider Squad; her school Yarra Valley Grammar; vets The Equine Practice; farrier Brook Dobbin; and her sponsors Horse in the Box Equestrian, Hoogies of Seville and Epona Elite Equestrian. And from all of us here at the Equestrian Hub, keep shooting for the stars, Bella – we’re excited to see what comes next.
A winning line-up, with a rug and ribbon for Bella after the Sydney 2021 CD-Lite P. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 107
I P E R F E C T PA R T N E R S
Scott Hergest and Spinnin’ Whiz Reining trainer Scott Hergest was in the middle of winning yet another event when SONIA CAEIRO ALVAREZ called him to chat about his champion ride and long-time partner Spinnin’ Whiz.
f you haven’t yet gotten along to a reining competition to see what all the fuss is about, you probably should. The atmosphere is electric, the horses’ agility and speed amazing, and the connection between horse and rider truly remarkable. For close to 30 years now, Scott Hergest has been an outstanding competitor in the sport, and has had numerous wins and placings at both State and National shows, including Futurities and Derbies. Currently he’s campaigning Spinnin’ Whiz – Dusty to his friends – a Quarter Horse he started and has trained to Derby and Open success at all levels. When I spoke with Scott, he and Dusty were mid-competition near Gympie in Queensland. Nevertheless, he kindly took some time out to talk about the partnership he has with his outstanding reiner.
P E R F E C T PA R T N E R S
It was in early 2017 that Scott chanced
he should have won. However, we had
Coast Championships, the 2018
upon the young horse while browsing
a hiccup. Even so he was an absolute
Pacific Coast Reserve Championship
social media. “I’d been looking for
standout and one of the American
Derby, and the Intermediate Derby
a prospect for a while when I saw a
judges was saying, ‘go buy that horse!’,
Championships, after which they landed
Facebook ad for a stud in NSW,” he says. “It was pretty much sight unseen
and since then we’ve done pretty well.”
the truck arrived, I watched some horses being unloaded, and then out came Dusty. I liked his look straight away and I have never had a bad day with him. He’s a great horse.” Scott tells me that it wasn’t exactly a deep love at first sight, but from the get-go he knew there was something special about this particular Quarter
Association Open Championship. And most recently, the pair took out the win
and the seller said, ‘I’ll send him off to you, if you like him, that’s great’. When
the 2018 Queensland Reining Horse
I’ve been offered very good money for him, but he’s earned his keep and I don’t think I could ever sell him.
at the 2021 Queensland Reining Horse Association State Show Open Derby and Intermediate Derby with a score of 146.5. “We’ve been putting a lot of good runs together,” Scott tells me. “We’re looking at the Nationals this year, probably our last Derby year. Dusty’s done a lot of work, so I’m not really too worried. He’s been a successful horse for me ever since the first big event at the Queensland Derby. I’ve been offered
Horse. “It was just the look of him – I can’t explain it exactly,” he says. “He
Modestly, and with more than a
very good money for him, but he’s
was just one year old, and I could see he
smattering of understatement, Scott
earned his keep and I don’t think I could
was an excellent horse. He has no bad
lists some of the triumphs of the last few
traits really. He’s good to do anything
years which include wins as the 2017
with, including leading the younger ones. Basically, everything he’s asked to do, he does.” Although Scott can’t pin down a
ever sell him.” So although their competitive days in
Queensland Reining Horse Association
the pen may come to a close at the end
Derby Championships and 2017 Reining
of the 2021 season, one thing’s for sure,
Australia Derby Co Championships.
Scott and Dusty are very likely to remain
The pair placed at the 2018 Pacific
perfect partners.
specific reason for their connection, this intangible but immediate flash of intuition was the start of a partnership that has been going strong for the past five years. Trust was built over time and he credits a softer training style to cementing their relationship. “I’m not a very hard trainer. Quarter Horses are normally a very hot breed but Dusty wasn’t that difficult,” he explains. “When he does something wrong, I don’t freak out. You can’t be banging on at them, it just doesn’t work.” Speaking mid-competition, Scott is in a competing mindset. He and Dusty have a fine reputation in the arena, although Scott is characteristically humble about their achievements. “I’ve been around for quite a while and have had a few horses – and we did ok,” he says. “Then Dusty came along. A few years ago, we’d done the Beaudesert Performance Club, and were at the Pacific Coast at Gatton. He was young but ready and
Scott and Dusty took out the recent QRHA State Show Open Derby and Intermediate Derby with a score of 146.5. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 109
Q: Where did you grow up? A : I haven’t grown up yet. I spent my childhood in the New England ranges at a place called Nowendoc in between Gloucester and Walcha.
20 QUESTIONS
20 Questions with Cody Rawson-Harris For more than thirty years, Cody has worked all over the world training animals and educating actors for films, television series and commercials. He also trains horses for every Olympic discipline, and for the racing industry.
Q: Heath Harris, your movie horse trainer father, is well-known. Was your mother also involved in the business? A : Yes, she was very heavily involved. She did films like the Silver Brumby and Snowy River: The McGregor Saga.
Q: What was your involvement with horses growing up? A : I did Pony Club and worked outside of my parents. I think Mum used to send me to Pony Club so she could get some peace and quiet.
Q: Did you have any mentors besides your parents in the early days? A : Ray Hunt was an inspiration, and Glen Randall from Randall Ranch who did films like The Black Stallion and Ben Hur.
Q: When did you start learning the finer points of training horses?
20 QUESTIONS
A : When I let go of the ego. I was always fairly handy and had a good feel, but letting go of the ego took my horse training to the next level.
Q: What do you find the hardest thing to train a horse to do? A : On set there is a delivery date. That really looms over you on film productions. Keeping the horse in a relaxed frame of mind when shooting begins in two weeks puts a lot of pressure on the situation.
Q: I’ve heard you were a stunt double for Orlando Bloom. Were you picked for your good looks or stunt riding abilities? A : Of course for my good looks! We supplied the horses for Gregor Jordan’s Ned Kelly. I was galloping through the bush firing guns as Orlando’s character Joe.
Q: Any big names who were really good to work with? A : Russell Crowe with The Silver Brumby and the True History of the Kelly Gang, Olivia Newton-John, Hugh Jackman, and Mackezie Foy was brilliant to work with.
Q: What are some of the movies and TV shows you’ve worked on? A : Other than the ones I’ve mentioned, Black Beauty for Disney +, The Dressmaker, The Pacific, the Gallipoli miniseries, Racing Stripes, The Witcher and many, many more.
Q: Have you trained other animals besides horses? A : I’ve trained water buffalo, parrots, dogs, monkeys, zebras, donkeys, mules, cats (they’re actually quite cool to train), sheep (which I found quite similar to training horses), kangaroos, and emus just to name a few. In my business you name it, we tame it!
Q: Have you worked at any particularly interesting locations? A : All over South Africa, India, Hungary, Turkey, New Zealand. I’m blessed that I’ve been able to work in all these places.
Q: When you’re not riding, how do you relax? A : Exploring, which is non-existent at the moment during COVID. Even going for a drive and finding a new restaurant is good fun.
ABOVE: Cody and his unicorn shooting a TV commercial. LEFT: Rehearsing before the day’s shoot.
Q: What do you look for in a potential
Q: What is something from your line
liberty horse? A : Willingness
of work that could benefit the
Q: If you weren’t in the liberty/movie
A : Pay attention to relaxation. Also, have
industry, what would you be doing? A : I would be training and helping horses with ‘problems’.
a bit of grit.
Q: What’s the first thing you look to
A : A horse called Windy. She was an
work on with a ‘problem’ horse? A : Regardless of the ‘problem’ you need to start by getting their attention.
Q: Is there any particular issue you
everyday rider?
Q: If you could have any horse past or present which one would it be? Andalusian and was taken before her time. She was the most amazing horse. Every horse I touch, Windy has taught me something that helps. She gave me
really enjoy fixing? A : I enjoy seeing the process with a horse that’s fearful, or has had trouble with humans, and gaining their trust. There is satisfaction in the end. More recently, I’m enjoying helping racehorses with barrier issues.
so much.
Q: Are you afraid of anything? A : Anything that is designed to eat you!
which is for anyone interested in my film
Q: What are your plans for the future? A : To keep training horses locally. When COVID settles down the international film industry will open up again. I’m also doing up my website www.crhlivestock.com work, hosting a clinic, or booking lessons. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 111
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S TO C K I S T S
Find a stockist or shop online Page 25 – Horse Health AXIS www.jurox.com.au
BANANA FEEDS www.bananafeedsaustralia.com HI-FORM www.hiform.com.au KER www.ker.com MCDOWELLS www.mcdowellsherbal.com
Page 80 – Finishing Touches
Page 90 – Hoof and Leg Care
ARIAT www.ariat.com.au
HORSE IN THE BOX www.horseinthebox.com.au
EQUIPE www.trailrace.com.au
ICE N EASY www.iceneasyequine.com.au
GLOSSARENA www.nrgteam.com.au
KER www.ker.com
MONTANA www.justcountry.com.au
MISSY'S BUCKET www.missysbucket.com.au
WOOF WEAR www.zilco.com.au
POTTIES www.sykes.net.au
Page 86 – All Things Spring
Page 30 – Blue
ARIAT www.ariat.com.au
EQUESTRIAN HUB www.equestrianhub.com.au FAIRPLAY www.horseinthebox.com.au
ARIAT www.ariat.com.au CARIBU www.petstock.com.au
MCDOWELLS www.mcdowellsherbal.com POTTIE'S www.sykes.net.au SCOOT BOOTS www.scootboots.com WOOF WEAR www.zilco.com.au
Page 101 – Riding the Range
ARIAT www.ariat.com.au JUST COUNTRY www.justcountry.com.au DAN POST www.westernbootbarn.com.au KENTUCKY www.trailrace.com.au EQUESTRIAN HUB www.equestrianhub.com.au
GIDGEE EYEWEAR www.gidgee-eyes.com JUST COUNTRY www.justcountry.com.au NRG www.nrgteam.com.au
SUNBODY www.justcountry.com.au
PERFORMARIDE www.performaride.com.au PETSTOCK www.petstock.com.au
THE SADDLE HUB www.equestrianhub.com.au
112 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
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