Equestrian Times Magazine February/March 2016 Issue 1 by Equestrian Times Magazine

Issue No.1

February/March 16

CLINIC “PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT” 2-Day Clinic with 2015 OHJA Equitation Coach of the Year FOCUS Horses and Mental Health LIFESTYLE Fit to Ride PORTFOLIO Ryan Kelly Magical Landscapes

EXCLUSIVE MIKE & EMMA WINTER Eventing’s Power Couple on the Road to Rio DISCOVERY Quick Glance Into Western Games POLO The Enchanting World of Snow Polo www.equestriantimesmagazine.com

Italian Elegance & Style NOW AVAILABLE IN THE US AND CANADA

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February/March 2016

FROM THE EDITOR

can’t believe how much time has flown by since I came across this quote from Paulo Coelho: “If it is still in your mind, it is worth taking the risk.” I used to dream of becoming a designer, and it became my reality. My aspirations in sports and later on in sports marketing took me all the way to China...I used to day-dream while driving on weaving country roads, that one day I would be galloping through fields. I used to dream that I would be able to ride my freestyle dressage test and jump fearlessly....I rode my first dressage freestyle last year and aim to enter the show jumping world on my fantastic mare Katerina this upcoming show season...I used to dream about working within the equestrian world, someday, somehow. I would never have thought it will mean launching my own equestrian magazine...

Our journey with ETM has been a thrilling one so far, and has brought many amazing people together. The ultimate truth that you are only as good as your team has been proven true. Looking at this issue there is no doubt our team is especially great. We did it...We established a brand new and fresh equestrian lifestyle magazine. We are excited about the journey to come with many years of progress and growth. The concept behind Equestrian Times Magazine is to celebrate the lifestyle associated with equestrianism in focus of the horse. ‘We created the magazine for the times we need more equestrian.’ Our goal is to develop a modern, sophisticated, interdisciplinary publication to embrace equestrianism enthusiastically. No matter what discipline or what level you ride, you will find your favourite articles. If you are not a rider yourself, but a horse enthusiast ETM is for you too. In this issue we interview an amazing couple, Mike and Emma Winter, who believe that family and hard work is what makes life special. We report on 2 different clinics in 2 different disciplines, but are surprised by the commonalities... In our Fit to Ride section, Deanna Bossert, our talented chef will make you believe you can cook healthy, nutritious meals that will aid in your every day activity both in and out of the saddle. We hope you will enjoy our magazine. “Life is better with horses”.

February/March 2016

CONTRIBUTORS Lin Haag MSW, RSW

REGISTERED SOCIAL WORKER

Lin Haag is a PhD student in the Lyle S. Hallman Faculty of Social Work at Wilfrid Laurier University researching in the areas of disability studies, traumatic brain injury, and acquired chronic illness & injury. She has been involved in this field both in academe and practice for the last ten years, conducting research examining the lived experiences of university students with disabilities and brain injuries, as well as developing and implementing innovative individual and group based interventions for people living with brain injury and chronic pain. Being an equestrian all her lifer and after completing specialized training at Horse Spirit Connections, Lin in partnership with Shelley Walkerley (NP-PHC PhD) started MoonDance Equine Facilitated Therapy Centre located in south-western Ontario, Canada. Equestrian Times Magazine is honoured to have two such exceptional professionals contributing, and bringing an amazing topic into perspective.

Vanessa Hughes PHOTOGRAPHER Vanessa began her career as a freelance photographer eight years ago. Unable to ride in her youth Vanessa began a photographic journey back into the horse world two years ago. Her favorite sport to photograph is eventing but you may find her at horse shows and events all over the West Coast and beyond. She recently completed her studies at UCLA in arts and photography. Known for her unusual perspectives, she enjoys getting right into the action for the best shots. “I am delighted to join the ETM team and looking forward to an exciting first year of many to come.”

Alana Pickrell

INTERN EDITOR, JOURNALIST

Meet Alana Pickrell…our talented editor and journalist intern; currently a full-time student, full-time equestrian. She is enrolled at Trent University and Loyalist College in a joint major program pursuing a double degree in journalism and English. She has been riding since she was four-years-old. Alana is a barrel racer, and you might have already read some of her blogs about the story of Tee; a rescued OTTB mare on her way to become a barrel racer. (*Read more on our website and through social media - every Wednesday we post a new blog #projectthoroughbred) “I am so happy that I found Equestrian Times Magazine and have been given the opportunity to work with such a wonderful team who share the same passions as I do. Well, and to spare my ‘non-horsey’ friends from too much ‘horsey’ talk... :) 6

February/March 2016

Deanna Bossert

Adriana Garcia

Deannaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest in food sprouted from a longstanding pattern of professional grazing as a child. Often referred to as a professional food grazer by her mother due to sneaking Italian meatballs, and homemade sides, Deanna went on to study the building arts while continuing to let her title carry through while at Savannah College of Art and Design. Originally focused on the fine arts & building arts, Deanna found her love of culinary arts and nutrition trump her initial passions when she accepted an Interior Design position in Miami, Florida. Being surrounded by exotic, farm-fresh ingredients, and multicultural cuisine, she explored Miami by the means of her taste buds, creating ties with each cultural delicacy. Leaving the building arts soon after arriving in Miami, Deanna went on to Johnson & Wales University to study the Culinary Arts as well as Food Service Management. While much of her skills as an artist come into reality as a chef, she exhibits a direct dueling passion for both worlds in her plating designs and culinary skills. Her current project and business, The Cooking Collaborative, LLC --- will launch in late March of this year (2016) to share her passions as a chef with the community in Miami, Florida, utilizing farm-fresh ingredients and crafting nutrient-dense dishes.

After working in the animation industry in her hometown of Mexico City, Adriana moved to the U.S. to pursue her masters degree in animation to further expand her skill sets. All with the final goal to keep applying them in the industry, fulfilling her passion to tell stories and create characters. She just recently worked on a Weightwatchers commercial that aired in Germany. Growing up in a big, busy place like Mexico City, she was constantly surrounded by interesting people, history, art, trends and events; things that would often inspire her. Being fascinated by animals, she truly enjoys studying their behavior, looks, and personality (and even those of people!). These studies would later serve as inspiration for her own creations. Comedy has always been one of her favorite subjects, and very often she portrays it through her work. She truly enjoys reaching out to people through her storytelling and character designs. She believes that animation is a strong form of communication that can reach out and touch the lives of many. Adriana is excited to share her characters with the readers of Equestrian Times Magazine.

THE COOKING COLLABORATIVE LLC.

CHARACTER DESIGNER, STORYBOARD ARTIST

CONTRIBUTORS

February/March 2016

CREDITS

PUBLISHER AND EDITOR IN CHIEF Rita Irina Pljusznyin irina@equestriantimesmagazine.com DESIGN ETM Design info@equestriantimesmagazine.com INTERN EDITOR Alana Pickrell

COVER PHOTO

Rider Karen Bristing on her horse “Moonlight’s Ranger” competing Preliminary level at Galway Downs International Event in November 2015. Photographer Vanessa Hughes, a master of light and creativity is fascinated and inspired by the world of eventing. Her subjects are dominated by dynamic angles and blackened backgrounds.

CONTRIBUTORS Lin Haag, Shelley Walkerley, Deanna Bossert, Adriana Garcia EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Mike Winter, Emma Winter PORTFOLIO Ryan Gardner Kelly Photography

ADVERTISING Jocelyn Davie jocelyn.davie@equestriantimesmagazine.com INFORMATION info@equestriantimesmagazine.com www.equestriantimesmagazine.com

www.ladyphotographic.com

February/March 2016

2016 ETM All rights reserved. Reproduction of this publication in any form is strictly forbidden. While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein.

February/March 2016

CONTENTS EDITOR’S NOTE CONTRIBUTORS CREDITS

CLINIC “PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT”

STYLE + COLOUR EQUESTRIANS ARE ATHLETES IN STYLE

COMEDY WHO IS READY FOR THE SHOW SEASON?

DISCOVERY THE WORLD OF WESTERN GAMES

THE BEST LINES YOU WON’T FORGET

DISCOVERY A YOUNG TRAINER WHO HAS IT ALL

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW MIKE & EMMA WINTER

GLOBAL The Enchanted World of Snow Polo

15 SIGNS THAT YOU MIGHT BE AN EVENTER

PORTFOLIO MAGICAL LANDSCAPES

2-day clinic with 2015 OHJA Equitation Coach of the Year

Adriana Garcia brings comedy to life...with horses

Eventing’s Power Couple on the Road to Rio

FIT TO RIDE BENEFITS OF FOOD FOR EQUESTRIANS

Nutritional value of food and lifestyle choices play an enormous role in a rider’s ability...

FIT TO RIDE RECIPES

FOCUS HORSES AND MENTAL HEALTH

Kale and shaved zucchini salad with cashew crusted Mahi Thai Morning Mylk Shake

February/March 2016

Orange & Navy

“Keep an open mind and never stop learning”

Winter wrap, literally...

Featured Photographer - Ryan Kelly

+ Find special content on our blog - www.equestriantimesmagazine.com

FEATURES 18

EXCLUSIVE MIKE & EMMA WINTER EVENTING’S POWER COUPLE ON THE ROAD TO RIO

IN FOCUS HORSES AND MENTAL HEALTH

GLOBAL THE ENCHANTED WORLD OF SNOW POLO

February/March 2016

"Practice Makes Perfect" 9

2 DAY CLINIC WITH RACHEL SCHNURR 2015 OHJA EQUITATION COACH OF THE YEAR *OHJA - Ontario Hunter Jumper Association

any riders in North America start their show jumping careers in the hunter and equitation rings. This model in the US and Canada has produced riders with great achievements internationally and at local ‘A’ - circuits. The style derived from the hunter and equitation rings is not only visually appealing but also an effective approach to stay relaxed and in harmony with the horse, communicating through invisible aids. The riders emerging to the Grand Prix Show Jumping levels from the hunter ring and equitation classes develop a strong foundation as young riders. They learn how to maintain impeccable position in every gait and over fences, riding smooth and well composed rounds. The technical skills that are perfected for equitation translate well to the jumper ring and aids riders to develop a certain mental sharpness. One of many technical riders who has proven the importance of finesse and dedicated training is Canada’s Rachel Schnurr. She started her career as early as the age of 7 with equitation classes to perfect her skills for the jumper ring. She still recalls her first pony - named Peanut – who helped Rachel enter the world of equitation and competition. Rachel’s junior career ended with great success winning the CET National Medal Finals at the Royal Winter Fair in 2010. Rachel believes that “if you look at the world of show jumping today, technique is huge. Any good rider should be able to jump into the equitation ring and win. Riding is all about proper technique and body position – leg first, then balance, seat and soft hands – all create a better jump and the winning ride. There is so much technique and hours of practice behind a good ride, which seems so easy from the sidelines. There is a reason why it appears so ‘easy’. Rachel now teaches at Windamere Stables near Waterloo, Ontario. Her goal for her students is simple. She aspires to pass down all the techniques and finesse that she learnt through the years from her coaches, mentors and time in the saddle.

February/March 2016

CLINIC

Rachel Schnurr & Castor Troy Z February/March 2016

In 2015, 9 of her students qualified for the Royal Winter Fair, where she was named OHJA Equitation Coach of the Year. A great achievement for such a young coach. Rachel puts great emphasis on the importance of practice and time spent in the saddle. “I try to encourage my students to aim for perfection especially when it comes to schooling and training outside of the show-ring. What you put in your ‘backpack’ at home is what you can utilize in competition.” We personally witnessed Rachel’s extensive repertoire and enthusiasm to keep her students motivated day after day during the clinic. The key to developing good equitation – riding position that is not only visually appealing, but also effective – means you need to establish a good foundation says the talented young coach. “I try to keep each day filled

with new combinations to mix it up. It is good for both horse and rider.” Rachel believes that a polished, thinking, and effective rider puts the work in at home and enters the ring with confidence. “Exercises that train the rider’s eye and teach patience include riding jump offs, short turns, technical exercises and lots of work with poles.” Day 1 of the 2-day clinic focused on these types of exercises. Before jumping, the riders cantered through poles, adjusting the amount of strides the horses were told to fit in between the obstacles. Participants were challenged to ride lines in exact number of strides. A normal 7-stride line had to be ridden in a forward 6 and in a collected 8, first using only ground-poles progressing onto small verticals. Rachel believes that the height of the jump has to come after

Photo

ishootstills.com

“YOU HAVE TO SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS...YOUR EXERCISE STARTS AT THE EXACT MOMENT YOU PICK UP THE CANTER.”

February/March 2016

the rider develops the ability to control the horse. A balanced and ‘perfect’ pace in the approach is what makes a good fence and a good distance. Challenging halts throughout the session tested the riders’ control of their mounts. Adjusting distances and strides tested the horses’ rideability. Next Rachel set up creative grids which she believes help riders slow their body, stay behind their horse, and jump without getting ahead. We heard Rachel say to one of the riders …“If your shoulder gets ahead of your hips, it puts you in a weak, imbalanced position, your horse is likely to drag you out of the saddle at landing, making it harder to recompose your position and get your pace back.” After the grids she set up exercises that served to practice the adjustability of the horse. These consisted of lines

February/March 2016

Rachel Schnurr & Rex owned by Heather Mitchell Royal Winter Fair, Canada 16

February/March 2016

that were set on half-strides and bending lines. Even poles on the ground were set on a bending line. “Riding turns have to become natural to both horse and rider, these exercises focus on your ability to either package your horse or lengthen the stride. Many times you will come across a line during your course that may be a forward four to a packaging five and you need to be able to ride it properly – with the horse’s rhythm never changing.” “You have to set yourself up for success, your exercise or your course starts at the exact moment you pick up the canter…You set yourself and your horse up for success way before the jump.” There were 5 horses in the advanced group, and the above advice meant a different approach to each and every one of the participants. One of the riders rode a mare with “lots of blood” as Rachel observed, and another had a horse that had to be taken to the jump and the rider was instructed to ‘stay behind’ to encourage the gelding by a strong position. Rachel said with humour that “your horse is like a pony in the body of a Warmblood…you have to show him you are the boss and be assertive while being encouraging...and make sure to give with your hands over the jumps…soft hands…lots of leg…” Rachel believes that training is repetition. “Practice is what makes anyone a winning rider”. Show jumping is a sport that requires the ability to concentrate. Training a rider’s mental ability also derives from dedicated training with a goal in mind. The first day of the clinic prepared riders for Day 2 - the ultimate challenge. Riding courses with the same finesse and creative thinking. There was a lot of repetition! The second day was all about real-time jump-off like courses and putting the details from the previous day into action. Rachel gave her last notes on how much preparation matters. “Success is more than just time in the saddle. It is your overall preparation, your lifestyle, your fitness and the management of your horse and schedules. Rider and horse both have to be well equipped mentally, physically and technically….” Without a doubt every single rider who attended the clinic went home with lots to work on in preparation for the upcoming show season.

“THE TECHNICAL SKILLS PERFECTED FOR THE EQUITATION CLASSES TRANSLATE WELL TO THE JUMPER RING”

CLINIC

February/March 2016

WHO IS READY FOR THE SHOW SEASON?

Illustration by Adriana Garcia adrianagarciadesigns.com

February/March 2016

He is certainly ... COMEDY

Read Equestrian Times Magazine on the go wherever you are with the new app. Available SOON! Download yours for this issue for iOS & Android. Follow us on our social media platforms for further updates.

AVAILABLE SOON! February/March 2016

THE LINES

you won’t forget

"Canter .... NOW!!! - Not 2 weeks from today!" - Ute Busse "I notice with hunters and jumpers, that when they sit the trot, they go 0.00 miles per hour in order to make it easier...If that is what you have to sit the trot, your horse is not working through his back. Just because you want to be smooth, that does not mean you ride with no consequence"

- Christine Traurig “...HOW MUCH YOUR 120 lbs BODY CAN AFFECT your 1200 lbs HORSE...

- Alana Pickrell

February/March 2016

BEST LINES

“DRESSAGE IS THE BASIS”

“Remember that every time you ride your horse you are either training or un-training, so make every minute count” - Leslie Richards

- Christine Traurig

“You can’t lift up something you are already sitting on with your hands... ...Your body is 10% of the overall weight, your position therefore is very influential on the shape of your horse” - Hyde Moffat

Would you like to be a part of this section? E-mail us your lines to info@equestriantimesmagazine.com, we will select the top 4 to publish in our magazine. February/March 2016

EVENTING’S POWER COUPLE ON THE ROAD TO RIO

EXCLUSIVE

INTERVIEW

EQUESTRIAN TIMES

MIKE & EMMA WINTER

February/March 2016

Mike Winter and Nothing Gained, CIC**, Belton Park Owned by Jonathan Nelson (British) February/March 2016

wo time Olympian Mike Winter and his wife Emma shared their inspirational story with Equestrian Times about family, business and preparations for Rio. They are a dedicated duo with an enormous will to make the most of their lives and develop talented young horses. This year Mike and the Jonathan Nelson, owned “Nothing Gained”, are aiming for the Olympics in Rio.

In 2016 we will be aiming at several events in the build up to RIO, to gain qualification and selection.”

Their business; Wayfarer Eventing; is located in the Cotswolds. The area is a jewel with its quaint roads and villages. As we approached the stables we had to stop several times to let cars drive by. We certainly enjoyed every stop, as there is just so much to look at in the area. Beautiful. Mike and Emma do it all without major sponsorship, with an “Nothing Gained,” who is fondly amazing ability to adapt as the sport known as “Bud” on the Yard, was changes and evolves. They are also fun purchased by Jonathan Nelson, a to interview… British Business man, as a young horse. You are not only a successful rider and He came to me in 2013 and needed have represented Canada from Olympics some retraining. He began to steadily through major events but you also run a improve and by the end of 2013 made successful business. When and how did his international debut at Gatcombe it all start? How do you keep such an CIC* followed by Weston Park CCI*. intriguing positive attitude? He continued his rise up the ranks over I started off being a working Pupil the past few years including notable CCI and CIC** success, as well as a in Canada with Nick Holmes-Smith, move up to the advanced level in 2015. which quickly resulted in my experience

in Arizona, Florida, South Carolina, many years running our business in Georgia, and now living and running our own business in England. Having a competitive goal driven career in horses is both a challenging and rewarding pursuit. Gathering experience and knowledge as a working pupil, was not only an endeavour to improve my riding skills, but to also gain business experience and contacts that could help me along the way. Every horse I was given the opportunity to ride, from sale horses, to breaking young horses, racehorses, and client horses have taught me something. As well as the numerous people, some of whom didn’t even know I was watching and imitating, helped me shape my riding. I have been lucky enough to share this journey filled with success and possibly even more failure, with my wife Emma. I believe an honest support system is so important. It offers encouragement and equally important criticism and direction. Each goal along the way seems like the most important until it is reached and then shrinks away as your sights are set firmly on the next. Whether that be, going Advanced, making the Canadian team for the first time, going to the Olympics, selling an expensive horse, moving out of our trailer and into a house, having children, buying a house...life in this game is never boring or without challenges. Can you recall your most memorable horses that you’ve competed on throughout the years? Do you ever feel that some are more special than others?

Amelia Winter and Eskimo Joe, Goring Heath, BE 100

February/March 2016

EXCLUSIVE

My success, along with Emma’s great achievements, including with her horse Mahogany Chief at both Rolex multiple times and Burghley 4 star, does not hold a candle to our greatest achievement, our children and watching them enjoy horses along with us. With Amelia, now almost 15 years old, who has had plenty of competitive success on her pony and now continues to progress up through

“... HAVING A COMPETITIVE GOAL DRIVEN CAREER IN HORSES IS BOTH A CHALLENGING AND REWARDING PURSUIT...”

Emma Winter and Mahogany Chief, CCI****, Rolex Kentucky February/March 2016

the levels in competitions with her horse Eskimo Joe. She works hard in all aspects of the business, from making coffee for a customer, pulling out sale horses, cleaning stalls, and riding anything I will let her on. I can’t talk about family without mentioning our little one Lilly, now 7 years of age, who may not be the most hard core equestrian.... but loves all the animals and anything that sparkles (kind of like Mommy!!) My oldest daughter Cassie, who has a successful career in education lives in Canada and has a strong interest in horses. I couldn’t be more proud of them all. I am just still blown away about the facility and the true fairy tale world it seems to represent - honestly I’m having a hard time focusing on my questions - How

did you find this amazing location for your business? You used to live in the States, what made you take such a big move? Do you find a different attitude in eventing and horses in general compared to North America? This newest chapter has brought more challenges and learning opportunities. After many years of high rankings as a rider based in America, I noticed at the Olympics in 2008, that the European riders had better horses, rode extremely well and had a very professional approach to competition. I realized in what high esteem eventing is held in the UK. We talked about the benefits and challenges of making the move; and how it would affect our children and our lifestyle. After making the move I believe it was almost all positive. Our business has transformed from mostly teaching

based income to primarily sales. We are also lucky enough to be based at a fabulous facility in the “Heart Of The Cotswolds” with great galloping and a full XC schooling course, which we both use to develop our horses, as well as hire out, along with a full course of show jumps and a standard Dressage arena. This is very popular for people looking to get a full schooling experience. We still have several students and owners, but nothing compared to the volume or style of teaching or the “program” that we had in America. The Events here are abundant, with extremely high participation and competitive standards. The access to young horse stock is amazing; from Ireland to Holland we have access to some of the best Eventing and Jumping bloodlines in the world, and everything is for sale.

“....OUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT, OUR CHILDREN AND WATCHING THEM ENJOY HORSES ALONG WITH US”

Mike and Lilly at the stables

February/March 2016

EXCLUSIVE

Amelia and Eskimo Joe at home training

Horses are often arriving at the same time that others are flying out to their new owners. Emma starts them on the XC on the lunge line and then I back them and do the first work under saddle. While I compete the International horses, Emma works with most of the horses eligible for young horse classes and the beginning of their Eventing careers.

Emma and Mahogany Chief at Rolex Kentucky

How different are your adrenalin levels when Amelia, your daughter, is in the saddle and gallops through a course, as opposed to when you are in the saddle? Are you a worrier when it comes to her riding?

Not to mention England has produced some of the best Eventing horses for sale in the world, as many top professionals rely on this as a main source of income. However, even with making this big positive change I’ve never forgot about the people and countries that have helped me get to where I am today; when I was in America I had American owners of horses who supported me through the international ranks… now I am in England and I have English owners doing the same. I would love to find a way of eventually involving Canadians here in England or back home.

As we get older and plan for the future we hope our children share the same passion for horses as we do. At the moment it appears Amelia has this passion along with talent, drive, and ambition. She has a work placement this summer with William and Pippa Funnell. If she does take over the business at some point, I will be both excited and nervous. I still watch Amelia and Emma with mixed emotions…I share in every step and every jump the concentration and excitement... however, at times I feel sick with fear, as the animals and sport we love comes with many risks and it would be lying to yourself not to face that it can even be fatal.

Sometimes the initial novelty of downtime and relaxation between seasons wears off with no specific goals as it happens to so many riders, how do you keep your focus and inspiration? As another year has passed, I think we have struck a good balance with work, family and down time. Including our annual family beach holiday to Ibiza and I took a boys ski/snowboard holiday to Austria with fellow Event riders. Now sights are set on 2016, the prospect of Rio,

You and Emma are working together at starting young horses for successful careers in Eventing. Not to mention, while we are currently talking, one of your young horses is being shipped to the U.S. and we got to personally see how much labour is involved. How do you keep up with so much at once? Our focus on sourcing and producing the highest quality prospects, to compete and sell, means we always have exciting horses from 3yo to the more experienced, older upper levels. There are always trips to view and select the next potential super stars from current proven bloodlines and raw potential.

Lilly ‘hard at work’ with her ‘staff’ February/March 2016

Mike Winter and Nothing Gained, CIC**, Banbury Castle, owned by Jonathan Nelson (British)

February/March 2016

"...COMMUNICATION THROUGH RELAXATION..."

February/March 2016

horses aimed at goals from 5yo Burghley young Event horses, National BE Championships, FEI National, and World Championship age classes such as Blenheim 8/9 CIC*** and Le Lion CCI* 6 year olds, and more customers coming to buy horses,. The pace never slows. 3 a.m. wake-up calls to go competing, kids to drop off and pick up at school, customers to pick up at the airport, dinners to cook, homework, daily training, tractor work (my favourite). I don’t know how it all gets done except for our amazing staff at the farm, my super wife/partner Emma, vets, farrier and most important COFFEE AND CAKE!!

“I DON’T KNOW HOW IT ALL GETS DONE EXCEPT FOR OUR AMAZING STAFF AT THE FARM, MY SUPER WIFE/ PARTNER EMMA, VETS, FARRIER AND MOST IMPORTANT COFFEE AND CAKE!!!” Every trainer has “that” line which makes the books (and many blogs)…Do you have one that you would share with us to remember?

Mike and BGS Titanium, Eventing in England, owned by Jane Lanyon (British)

“Communication through relaxation.” I tell people this so they understand that a relaxed horse can concentrate and understand what you are asking much better than an over-disciplined, tense, fearful horse. February/March 2016

15 SIGNS...

... that you might be an eventer:

February/March 2016

15 SIGNS...

THE MOST EXPENSIVE PAIR OF PANTS YOU OWN ARE BREECHES.

Dressage…jumpers…galloping over fences…you are great at multitasking and you are brave. (Or couldn’t decide because you simply love it all?)

WHEN YOU SEE STACKS OF RAILROAD TIMBER ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, YOU WONDER IF ANYONE WOULD NOTICE IF YOU HAULED IT AWAY. YOU COULD BUILD AN AWESOME XC COURSE WITH ALL THAT!

4. When someone mentions jumping their horse over a coffin, it doesn’t sound strange to you at all. 5.

YOU THINK OF GOLF COURSES ARE A TERRIBLE WASTE OF PERFECT TERRAIN.

When you see a pile of dirt at a construction site and you think - “wow I could really use that fill to finish my bank.”

YOU WEAR BREECHES,TALL BOOTS, AND ROCK HELMET HAIR WITHOUT SHAME IN PUBLIC PLACES.

When you mention going to Florida for the winter, your friends know you’re not talking about spending time on the beach.

AFTER A TOUGH DAY AT WORK THERE IS ONLY ONE THING THAT YOU WANT TO DO, AND THAT IS GALLOPING THROUGH THE FIELDS AT FULL SPEED.

10.

The most swimming you have time to do is when you encounter an involuntary dismount water combination.

11.

YOU GET EXCITED WHEN YOU HAVE BIG RAIN PUDDLES IN YOUR RING, BECAUSE YOU GET TO PRACTICE WATER OBSTACLES.

12.

Everything you own is the same colour combination as your eventing colours. (Mine even goes with my truck)

13.

YOU DON’T LIKE HIKING, BUT THINK NOTHING OF THOROUGHLY WALKING THE XC COURSE 2-3 TIMES.

14.

You choose to drive on back-roads and country roads so you get to day-dream about galloping in the fields.

15.

at the

YOU THINK NOTHING OF SPENDING $300 ON YOUR HORSE’S SHOES EVERY 5-6 WEEKS YET HAVE NOT SPENT THAT MUCH ON YOUR OWN SHOES IN THE PAST YEAR. (Unless you are purchasing new tall riding boots!)

...that you might be an eventer!

February/March 2016

MAGICAL LANDSCAPES of the United Kingdom & Ireland

FOR EVERY ISSUE, EQUESTRIAN TIMES MAGAZINE WILL BRING AN ARTIST TO THE SPOTLIGHT. FOR THE FIRST FEATURE WE ASKED RYAN KELLY TO SHARE HIS MAGICAL LANDSCAPES OF THE UNITED KINGDOM AND IRELAND. MEET RYAN, OUR FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER...

portfolio 34

February/March 2016

Ryan Kelly

www.gardnerkellyphoto.com

am from Savannah, GA a quaint southern town. In Savannah I attended Savannah College of Art and Design for film and television where my interest in photography began. Savannah is a beautiful city, and is a great place to live in as an artist. Since my initial love for photography I have developed my skills and interest by teaching myself new styles and techniques, especially working with textures created by light and subtle hues. My visit to the UK had been something I have always dreamed of. The landscapes there are breathtaking and mystical, which is exactly the reason I had always wanted to visit. My style of photography focuses on evoking the magical feel of the terrains. My subject matter always thrives from filtered lighting techniques. I enjoy taking photos of landscapes and the region provided me with such a rich tapestry of material to work with. I hope I can visit the land of mystical terrains again soon...and next time I will make sure to visit a horse show. This issue of Equestrian Times Magazine; focusing on Eventing opened my eyes about a whole new world - the excitement and adrenalin of Eventing.

PORTFOLIO

February/March 2016

PORTFOLIO

February/March 2016

FIT to RIDE

NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF FOOD AND LIFESTYLE CHOICES PLAY AN ENORMOUS ROLE IN A RIDER’S ABILITY TO STAY FOCUSED AND HAVE LASTING AND SUSTAINING ENERGY Recipes and Article by Deanna Bossert, THE COOKING COLLABORATIVE, LLC Photo: Michele Mueller and Amistad Denise Lenz and Viva’s Capitol EQUESTRIAN TIMES MAGAZINE

If you’re anything like me, you grew

up eating quality ingredients, with a mother who wouldn’t let you leave the breakfast table without finishing your morning orange juice. Possibly, you had a strict grandmother that stated, “you can’t live on love alone.” Maybe, you were on the opposite end of the spectrum entirely and are just now realizing how vital it is to know what you’re putting into your body. We tend to think of wellness to be singular and somewhat divided from what wellness fully and truly encompasses. We look to the media, those around us, and the trends that quickly unfold as steady guidance to what we should and shouldn’t do in the world of wellness. While some of this guidance is quality information or somewhat complex, we have to remember that we must suit the needs of our own personal health versus the overall suggestions directed to the general public.

As a chef, I must look at ingredients and nutrition quite the same as these aspiring architects. You cannot lay the foundation of your diet with rubbish. You do not begin a blueprint for a home without a proper plan, a strong foundation, and the means to support the structure. Your system is quite the same. A fashion designer or seamstress does not simply sew. They design and create a garment that is outlined to fit the human form in the correct fashion. A nutritionist does not simply educate others on nourishment without understanding the inter-working of the human organs relating it entirely to food. An equestrian does not become a skilled rider overnight without months or years of practice controlling their 1200 pound horse. Nutritional study and the ability to truly cook does not happen overnight, however a quality foundation must be established for your body to run at optimum levels. We build slowly, take away slowly, adjust and perfect much like any skill.

serves nourishing, nutrient-dense, and honest cuisine. I gear people to focus on the idea that quality health is so much more than the displacement of disease while the statement “You are what you eat,” couldn’t be more true in its suggestion.

My company prides itself on being plant-pushers, nutrient-hunters, and happiness foragers - knowing that creating an ecosystem of overall wellness trumps what any medicine could ever do prior to a disease. We refrain from dismissing your choice “diet” as we are aware that not one individual is alike, nor faces a similar battle. There is no “one size fits all” in the diary of culinary nutrition. We believe in creating concrete nourishment and dietary adaptations to suit your needs while showcasing that developing successful eating habits & a healthy lifestyle isn’t a journey that should be spent alone. This is precisely why we are called The Cooking Collaborative, as we are When my interest in culinary nutrition here to support the battles, victories, first sprouted, I was a college student While I am no longer a part of the downfalls, and celebrations that you studying the building arts. Many students hoped to become architects building arts, I would now consider have with food. We are a culinary hive one day with the study of construction myself somewhat of a body architect. & an education incubator showcasing While I note in my upcoming website, the powers of food. Our success begins being the foundation of their studies. I am not a nutritionist nor a dietitian. I with our clients & users, creating a am a chef, quality food pusher who collaboration of individuals ready to build healthier and happier bodies. 48

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FIT TO RIDE

ETM Photo-shoot with one of the fittest Eventers Michele Mueller and her Olympic Hero Amistad

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MY COMPANY PRIDES ITSELF ON BEING PLANT-PUSHERS, NUTRIENT-HUNTERS AND HAPPINESS FORAGERS

ETM Photo-shoot with Denise Lenz and Viva’s Capitol Cornerstone (Palgrave) Dressage Show, PSG 1st place 50

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Over the years I have found that the most vital source of health comes from a balanced diet. The term balanced is one of the key words I use to describe a nourishing diet because it hits all the nutritional requirements that your system needs to operate correctly. Using the word healthy to describe food cannot be stated as truthful, as nourishment is never a singular victory. All nutrients and vitamins must work together to create a healthy body. If an orchestra is missing a keynote for their symphony, the cohesion of the music is off. If a boat is not properly constructed it will sink while a parked car cannot move without the proper fuel. Your system is no different. It has to have the correct levels of nutrients and minerals to lay the foundation of your health. If you were to look deeper into overall wellness in the equestrian world, it is hard to fathom a rider being anything but physically and mentally fit. Much like I had noted previously,

health is so much more than the displacement of a disease, it is important to uncover the laws behind a quality rider, one who seems as if they are one with their horse and a true extension of the animal. The ability to be in unison with your horse does not just come from the ability to control a horse through jumps or a challenging dressage test. It is far more than that as many riders can attest to. While strength may be one factor in the ability to control a 1200 pound animal, the nutritional value of food and lifestyle choices play an enormous role in a riders ability to stay focused and have lasting, sustaining energy. Not only is it about the health of the individual, it is about the strength and wellbeing of the horse, which directly correlates to the riders weight, strength, and stamina. In coming articles we will uncover the victories we gain from the correct diet. Until then we invite you to try our recipes and discover how amazing the benefits of food can truly be.

February/March 2016

Kale & Shaved Carrot Zucchini Salad

(Serves 4) 1 large bunch KALE 4 large HEIRLOOM CARROTS OR REGULAR CARROTS 1 medium ZUCCHINI 1/2 cup TOASTED PEPITAS 1/4 cup TOASTED & CRUSHED CASHEWS 1/2 cup GOATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FETA CHEESE 1/4 cup FIGS (optional)

1. Wash all of your ingredients thoroughly. 2. Preheat your oven to 300 and combine your pepitas & walnuts onto a baking sheet. Roast the nuts until they begin to darken. The pepitas will turn from a light green to a somewhat forest green when toasted. Reserve and let cool. 3. With a chef â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s knife, cut your kale into small bite-size pieces. 4. Using a mandolin slicer with caution tuck your fingers and slice the carrots on the smallest ribbed setting to create noodle-like slices. They should be long, slender, and string-like. 5. Reserve your kale & carrots in a colander to dry. 6. Removing the ribbed setting on your mandolin, set the mandolin to the straight blade with the smallest setting. Slice your zucchini along the mandolin and reserve for grilling. If you do not want to grill the zucchini it can be enjoyed raw in your salad, sliced exactly the same as the carrots. 7. With a grill-pan combine olive oil and let it heat up. Once it has been heated add small slivers of your zucchini and flip. Reserve and let cool. 8. Slice the figs in half and reserve in a bowl. 9. Lastly, combine all ingredients into the bowl and add a fair amount of dressing to your salad. 10. To break-down the tough exterior of kale, combine the dressing (see below) by squeezing your tongs together gently to help to incorporate the dressing.

Cashew-crusted Mahi

(Makes 4 servings) 6oz pieces of WILD MAHI FILLETS 1 cup RICE FLOUR 2 cups CRUSHED CASHEWS 2-3 eggs 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1/4 teaspoon salt

Sherry Vinaigrette

1. Using three bowls, add the rice flour to one, eggs to another, and crushed cashews to the last. 2. Taking a mahi fillet, combine it into the rice flour. With your other hand, transfer it to the egg and cover completely. Using your dry hand, add it to the cashews. Repeat this process with all four fillets. 3. Heat your oven to 375 degrees F. 4. In a skillet, add the extra virgin olive oil and let it gradually heat up. Pan-sear the fillets on both sides without over- crowding the pan. We recommend only adding two to a medium sized pan. 5. Once the nuts have become a golden brown, add the fillets to an oiled baking dish and continue to cook for approximately 10 minutes or until it reaches 140 degrees F. 6. Remove the fish and enjoy with your salad.

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(Makes 12 servings for use throughout the week!) 1 GARLIC CLOVE 1/2 SMALL SHALLOT 1/4 SHERRY VINEGAR 1/2 cup EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL 1 teaspoon HONEY 1/4 teaspoon KOSHER SALT 1/8 teaspoon GROUND BLACK PEPPER 3 medium BASIL LEAVES 1. Combine all of the ingredients except the oil into a highspeed blender. Blend until the ingredients are well combined. 2. Once combined, add in the olive oil slowly until it has become entirely emulsified. 3. Reserve in the fridge until ready to use. The oil will preserve this mixture for up to 1.5 weeks.

FIT TO RIDE / RECIPE

Kale & Shaved Carrot Zucchini Salad with Cashew-crusted Mahi February/March 2016

Thai Morning Mylk Shake

FOR ONE SERVING 1/2 BANANA 1/4 cup PINEAPPLE 1/4-1/2 cup COCONUT MILK (from the can) 1/2 cup ORANGE JUICE (preferably freshly squeezed) 3 PITTED MEDJOOL DATES (soaked) 2 tbsp FRESH GINGER (grated) 1 tsp CINNAMON 3 tsp TURMERIC 2 tsp TAHINI PASTE 2 scoops of NATURAL PROTEIN POWDER (optional)

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METHOD OF PREPARATION: Freeze the banana the night before. Soak the dates overnight and peel away at the skin and remove the pit. Add all of the ingredients to a high-speed blender until well combined. If you feel as if you need more of one ingredient feel free to do so. If you would like the shake to be a thicker consistency combine with more ice.

cheers!

FIT TO RIDE / RECIPE

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ENTIRE INVENTORY

foreveroakequestrian.com February/March 2016

February/March 2016

Style + Colour A little bit of colour theory: Harmony can be defined as a pleasing arrangement of parts, whether it be music, poetry, design and even colour... In visual experiences, harmony is something that is pleasing to the eye. It engages the viewer and it creates an inner sense of order, a balance in the visual experience. At one extreme is a visual experience that is so bland that the viewer is not engaged. The human brain will reject under-stimulating information. At the other extreme is a visual experience that is so overdone, so chaotic that the viewer can’t stand to look at it. The human brain rejects what it can not organize, what it can not understand. The visual task requires that we present a logical structure. Colour harmony delivers visual interest and a sense of order. A colour scheme based on complementary colours is one formula to reach equilibrium and interest for the brain at the same time. Orange and Navy are complementary colours, which means they are situated exactly opposite to each other on the colour wheel. When placed next to each other they appear balanced. In colour therapy they are used to create harmony . Enjoy these colours and “ride in harmony”.

MODERN ENERGETIC ORANGE & CALMING, CLASSIC NAVY BLUE Sharp, sophisticated, sporty! We equestrians are athletes too, and athletes need inspiration to their dedicated work. For this month try these colours... Navy blue - a traditional and classic equestrian colour. There is just something to navy that makes it so elegant. Navy has many positive effects on the human body; like lowering blood pressure, calming strong emotions and bringing tranquility. Orange - is a complementary colour to navy blue and was picked to create a fun, bright look with Spring in mind, furthermore it can induce enthusiasm, and has learning enhancement benefits.

STYLE GUIDE THE HORSE: 1. Equiline Outline Fly Bonet - Navy 2. Equiline Polo Wraps - Navy 3. Hermès Orange Saddle Pad 4. Ogilvy Memory Half - Pad in Navy 5. SOFT’ UP PRO Free Jump Stirrups in Orange THE RIDER: 6. KASK Dogma Chrome Helmet in Navy (*as shown both chrome and helmet in navy) 7. Horze Crescendo Jara Quilted Vest 8. Noel Asmar Convertible Long Sleeve Polo 9. Noel Asmar Boot Socks in Navy 10. Animo Nerissa White Breeches 11. Parlanti Miami Tall Boots in Dark Brown 12. Hunter Boots in Navy 13. Roeckl Roeck Grip Riding Gloves- Navy with White Piping

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Horses &Mental Health TWO EXCEPTIONAL HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS LIN HAAG AND SHELLEY WALKERLEY HIGHLIGHT THE POTENTIAL OF EQUINE FACILITATED THERAPY AND THE IMPORTANCE OF LOCAL COMMUNITY Article written by Lin Haag (MSW RSW, Registered Social Worker) MOONDANCE EQUINE FACILITATED THERAPY CENTRE Established in partnership with Nurse Practitioner Shelley Walkerley (NP-PHC PhD) and the ‘herd’ of Banbury Farm Stables, owned and operated by Sarah and Michael Banbury

he conversation is starting to surface in society. Finally, after all these years, and all of our progressing knowledge, we are learning how to speak up and stand together when it comes to mental illness. It has been around for centuries; it has been publicly shamed, actively avoided, and solemnly fought. Until now… Mental health is something that many people struggle to achieve and maintain on an ongoing basis. In North America between 15-20% of adults experience mental illness over their lifetime (1-2). It can be a moderate interference in their daily lives for some people and for others it can mean a complete and total inability to engage in daily activities and a serious drop in quality of life. Mental illness affects individuals, families and communities and can result in significant financial hardship, chronic poverty and homelessness. It can interfere with interpersonal relationships, employment and, in some cases, can lead to selfharm and suicide. Although more and more public awareness is being drawn to this issue, people experiencing challenges to their mental health and well-being are often subjected to isolation, lack of understanding, and stigma. Rather than expose themselves to this experience, many people suffer in silence, unable to obtain the support they need to achieve a healthy status. As health care professionals, Shelley Walkerley and Lin Haag recognized the need for increased access to mental health supports in their community and as long-time equestrians they knew about the restorative effect of time spent with horses. For them, blending these aspects of their lives together through equine facilitated therapy just made sense. The partnership between horses and humans has been a long and important one offering safety, labour, transportation and companionship and has developed the horse’s strong urge to be of service to humans. As prey animals, horses have heightened sensory abilities allowing them to process information from their

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environment on multiple levels all the time. They are highly empathic and are particularly attuned to human energy and emotion. Horses sense when people are genuinely asking for help and they are willing to guide and support them in the healing and growth process. In recent years, with more people looking for less medicalized health care options, horses helping people heal has become much more widespread. After completing specialized training through Wilfrid Laurier University and Horse Spirit Connections, Shelley and Lin started MoonDance Equine Facilitated Therapy Centre located in south-western Ontario, Canada. The centre offers a variety of individual and group services based on the ‘FEEL’ (Facilitated Equine Experiential Learning) model. Sessions are tailored to their clients’ goals and range from leadership and interpersonal skills to personal discovery and growth to individual and group counselling and equine facilitated psychotherapy. As a nurse practitioner, Shelley has a strong background in health care. She offers mental health services to youth and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, and behavioural issues. She also has extensive experience working with individuals confronting addiction to nicotine. Shelley has been working for many years in communities of newcomers to Canada, and people facing economic and social challenges. She is interested in providing the benefits of equine therapy to people who identify with these experiences. Lin is a registered social worker and brings a unique combination of lived experience, academic knowledge and practice skills to the MoonDance team. Lin works with older youth and adults offering personal discovery and growth sessions as well as individual and group counselling. She specializes in working with adults adjusting to chronic illness 60

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and disability, combining her practice skills with her lived experience of traumatic brain injury. She also has a particular interest in supporting caregivers of people living with health and mental health challenges, blending equine facilitated counseling with traditional group therapy approaches. With all the work done on the ground and no previous experience with horses necessary, equine facilitated therapy is accessible to anyone and can be adapted to meet the clients’ comfort and safety needs. Using a mindful approach to horse/human interaction, it is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach maximizing the partnership of the therapist and the horse, offering people insight through a deeper engagement with the horse. Specifically designed exercises allow participants to experience a true, authentic relationship with a horse. For some this may be the first time they have experienced this type of relationship. As empathic creatures, horses can mirror human emotions and physical responses. This allows participants to reflect and modify behaviour for positive changes and encourages them to ground themselves within their body. For many participants, this is a reconnection with a body that has been at odds with them for years. Participants learn how to recognize and experience trust in a non-judgmental, non-verbal relationship. Mastering fear is key to developing and enhancing self-confidence. Safe interaction with horses allows participants to face and master fears and to experience courage. There are specific exercises that are designed for couples, teams and groups as well. These allow humans to experience the unique strengths of ‘the herd’ and the power of mutual care and trust. The ‘learning by doing’ nature of the activities helps participants to understand their own mind, body and emotions and the interconnections

between them, while presenting them with the opportunity to take active steps towards achieving mental health through a non-invasive, nonmedicalized therapeutic approach. Partnered together, therapist and horse help people improve their communication and leadership skills, develop trust, self-esteem, and selfawareness and learn new ways to cope with past trauma and heal old wounds.

“AS EMPATHIC CREATURES, HORSES CAN MIRROR HUMAN EMOTIONS AND PHYSICAL RESPONSES”

In the next issue Shelley and Lin will introduce their herd and how their story started. Their website is under construction, where soon you will find more information about their business; MoonDance Equine Facilitated Therapy Centre.

1. National Institute of Health. (2014). Retrieved on January 26, 2016. http:// www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/prevalence/any-mental-illness-ami-among-usadults.shtml 2. Canadian Mental Health Association. (2016). Retrieved on January 26, 2016. http://www.cmha.ca/media/fast-facts-about-mental-illness/#.VqgO0lKGMg4

They are located near Waterloo, Ontario in a scenic setting minutes from St Agatha at Banbury Farm Stables. For more information or to book a session call Lin Haag or Shelley Walkerley (519)-578-8169.

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February/March 2016

DISCOVER the WESTERN world Quick glance into Western Games The variety of disciplines within the horse world is extensive. It ranges from dressage to backyard pleasure, to halter classes, to hunter-jumper, to barrel racing and just about everything in between, with some events being more common and widely known than others.

BUT DID YOU KNOW THAT WESTERN GAMES DOESNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T JUST MEAN BARREL RACING? Several small towns will put on monthly horse-shows throughout the spring, summer and fall. Some of them including both the English and Western discipline, while some are strictly geared towards one or the other. If you decide to go to a Western Horse Show or a Rodeo this spring; here is a variety of Western games that both cowboys and cowgirls love to compete in.

BARREL RACING This event is well known worldwide. It involves a cloverleaf pattern, a timer, and a whole lot of guts. In this event the horse and rider enter the arena, complete the pattern as fast as they possibly can, and try to remember to breathe throughout the ride. Fastest time wins.

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DISCOVERY

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POLE BENDING This western speed event involves a few more obstacles than barrel racing. The pattern consists of a straight line of 6 poles set in a row. The object of the game here is for the horse and rider to weave in and out of the poles without knocking any over. First you run a straight line down the one side of the poles, then weave down all 6, turn the end pole as quick as possible, weave your way back up, and run straight down the other side to home. Here is the catch, each knocked pole adds a 5 second penalty to your time, and once again the fastest time wins.

DOWN AND BACK

FLAG RACE This one is a little more complicated than the other events. For this game there are two barrels placed in a line, the same distance as you would use for a figure-8 exercise. However, the top of one barrel is open with a flag (or stick) sticking out the top of it. Once you enter the arena the goal is to grab the flag out of the barrel, make a figure-8 pattern around the top barrel, and place the flag back in the first barrel without slowing down or missing your target. Handeye coordination plays a big role in this event.

The name says it all. There is one single barrel placed at the far end of the arena. Run down, turn it, and run home. Fast of course!

DOES SOMETHING SOUND FAMILIAR ABOUT ALL THESE EVENTS? YOU GOT IT, WESTERN GAMES ARE ALWAYS SCORED BASED ON SPEED WITH THE FASTEST TIME WINNING.

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SKUDAHOO If you stay all day you can see this event - saved for the end of the day. It combines all of your skills into one big obstacle. Down one side of the arena there are four poles in a straight line. In the middle of the arena is a single jump. And up the opposite side of the arena there are three barrels â&#x20AC;&#x201C; also in a straight line. To begin the horse and rider weaves through the four poles and immediately crosses over the small jump in the center. You circle back and weave through the three barrels along the other side and jump the jump in the middle for a second time before crossing over the timer line.

A. Pickrell

Jennifer Charest Photo

So what’s the final verdict? Are you excited to saddle up, kick for speed, and test out your skills in the western games?

On the photo above: Jennifer Charest and her horse “BAD RICK REAL SASY” aka Ricky. Ricky and Jennifer were on Team Ontario, and competed in barrel racing for NYATT at the All American Quarter Horse Congress.

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"Keep an open mind and never stop learning"

However, not only did she meet my personal requirements, but she also seems to surpass the expectations of everyone who she crosses paths with. Leslie is characterized as talented, engaged, and extremely hard working. Her true character seems to shine wherever she is, whether it be riding her own horses at a show or teaching up and coming students. There is no doubt within the western riding world that Leslie Richards is one of the best emerging professionals in the business. On the 19th of January a small group of dedicated barrel-racers braved the cold Canadian winter to learn under one of Ontario’s greatest competitors in the barrel-racing world. But first, lets do a quick background check on Leslie Richards. To begin, several people recommended her. We had never personally met, but I had watched her compete and always admired her style. Leslie started her riding career when she was 2 years old, which definitely checked off my

February/March 2016

LESLIE RICHARDS BARREL CLINIC

“I think the main thing that Leslie helped me realize was just how much my 110lb body can affect my 1100lb horse…” Article by Alana Pickrell, clinic attendee and intern editor at Equestrian Times Magazine

PixelWorks Texas

hen you are looking for a trainer or a clinic to attend I am willing to bet that you have a list of specific requirements that you look for. Maybe your coach has to have a specific number of recommendations from your fellow, trusted horse-friends. Or maybe this trainer needs to have a specific amount of years of riding experience under them. Not to mention, a few championship titles behind their name would definitely be a bonus right? For Leslie Richards she met every single one of my personal requirements.

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“required amount of previous riding experience”. She has won several Ontario titles, as well as qualified and won the 3D NBHA World Champion in Georgia, in 2015. She started her own training business in 2012 and hasn’t looked back since. And finally she eagerly took on and planned an entire clinic even with the freezing temperatures this winter, which left no question about her passion and dedication to both the sport and helping others. Without a doubt, it was extremely cold that day, especially when the first lessons started at 10 a.m.

DISCOVERY

The temperatures didn’t stop the riders, Leslie, or the group of spectators that filtered into the arena to gain as much knowledge as possible. Leslie really took the time to get to know each rider and horse combination and adjust her tips and exercises depending on what was going to work for each individual team. This meant running to different spots in the arena to make sure she could focus directly on you and the problems you were struggling with.

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The day was designed so that there were three different clinic groups with each group running for 2 hours straight. Obviously this allowed for the groups to be small and personable. But it also allowed for riders of all skills and experience. By the time I finally saddled up for the 12:30 p.m. session it was brought to my attention that I was going to be riding alone. This meant, by the luck of the draw, I managed to score a 2-hour one-on-one private lesson with Leslie Richards. What I enjoyed most about the clinic is that I wasn’t just another rider on a nameless horse. Leslie walked the arena on foot while I warmed up so she could get to know my horse, our journey together so far, and my personal experience and knowledge. She adjusted her exercises to fit my riding level and she pushed me out of my comfort zone several times to try and expand my knowledge. We focused a lot on controlling my horse’s entire body. This meant trying to get her to walk in a C-shaped bend (which might have been more work for me than it was for my mare). It meant doing tons of circle work without barrels, and then eventually it lead to tons of circle work with barrels. One major realization that truly shocked me the most was how much my body position can restrict my horse.

In the 4-5 months that I have been riding Tee, I have been struggling with balanced small circles. Ultimately they are beautiful to the right with hardly any trouble, but going to the left they are sloppy, uneven, and inconsistent. After watching me ride for a couple of minutes, Leslie told me to take my inside hand off the rein and reach it behind me to try and touch my horses hip. As backwards and as weird as that sounds, as soon as my hand was stretched straight behind me and my shoulders were open as wide as they could possibly be, my mare loped quiet, small, and consistent circles around a barrel with absolutely no problems. What an eye-opener it was for me to know that my body position was actually the root of all evil and not poor training or inability in my horse.

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Shawn Gosse Memoriesforeverphotography

Leslie taught me to focus on my own training as much as I focus on my horses. She helped remind me that when you are riding it is all about teamwork and finding the balance that works for both you and your horse.

FEATURED COACH & TRAINER

Ultimately she helped restore my confidence in my horse and in myself and she did all of this because she took the time to treat me like an individual, which so many trainers don’t have the time to do. Her knowledge, skills, and advice are something that I will take forward into every ride and even though it was only 2-hours of learning from her I know that she helped improve my skills as a rider immensely. “My final piece of advice would have to be to keep an open mind and never stop learning; I think that there is something to be learned from everyone if we open our minds to doing things different ways.” – Leslie Richards. February/March 2016

THE ENCHANTING WORLD OF SNOW POLO

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Snow Polo World Cup St Moritz / Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com

Winter wrap literally

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lorious winter sunshine, snowcovered fields gleaming like crystal chandeliers, polo ponies at full speed… With all the action and physicality of a traditional field polo, snow polo is even more fast-paced due to the smaller playing field and the snowpacked surface, presenting a fascinating challenge to both horses and players. The orange snow polo ball, made of inflatable vinyl, is more unpredictable in flight than the standard polo ball. Rather than the traditional four, teams consist of three players making the game even speedier. Snow polo is a tradition that originated in the glamorous ski resorts of Switzerland. But how did it all begin? Who had thought of the idea to play polo on ice and snow? Believe it or not it all started over a quarter century ago…

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Snow Polo World Cup St Moritz / Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com

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Snow Polo World Cup St Moritz / Tony Ramirez/www.imagesofpolo.com

In the mid eighties a small group of gumptious Swiss had the mind boggling idea of playing polo on the frozen surface of Lake St. Moritz in Engadin. Back then nobody would have thought that they were in the process of enacting a worldwide success model. But they in fact started a rapidly growing tradition reaching global heights. Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy was the first to follow in the footsteps of the success story of St. Moritz.

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Snow Polo World Cup St Moritz / BILDNACHWEIS: fotoSwiss.com/cattaneo

As in Engadin, matches in the Dolomites are on a frozen lake, first on Lago di Landro, later Lago di Misurina. The Polo Masters in Megève in France is another one of the earliest snow polo tournaments, as are the World Snow Polo Championship in Aspen, Colorado and the Snow Polo World Cup in Kitzbühel, Austria. Even Asia joined in on the fun. The most notable location in China is in Tianjin, where the inaugural Snow Polo World Cup in 2012 took place at the fabulous venue - The Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club, and has since become one of the most successful venues attracting over 10000 spectators a year. Today snow polo is one of the most loved variations of polo attracting spectators all around the world. New locations are added to the impressive list every year, and snow polo is now played at the most renowned and popular winter sport venues and polo destinations all around the globe.

Following the event’s huge success, the Federation of International Polo (FIP) sanctioned the first ever Snow Polo World Cup to be premiered in China at Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club in 2012. Teams from eleven nations and one Special Administrative Region were invited, making it one of the largest tournaments ever since the debut. This year in 2016 Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club celebrated it’s 5th year anniversary putting on such a successful event. It was my loveliest escape to a fairy-tale world of horses and fantastic facilities disappearing from my office and the population filled capital during my extended stay in China. Hosted by the Federation of International Polo and coorganized by the Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club, Fortune Heights Snow Polo World Cup 2016 featured 6 top teams from Argentina, Canada, Chile, England, France, and Hong Kong delivered a spectacular adrenalin filled winter polo extravaganza.

Are you starting to regret that winter is almost over? Equestrian Times Magazine we will make sure to take you to the best locations where you can enjoy this adrenalin filled, stunning equestrian sport and the glamorous venues where the championships are held year-round.

Earlier this year the freshly laid snow in Tianjin, China was as smooth as a wolf ’s pelt at the sun-soaked South Field, but the polo was fast and fierce as the tournament snarled into life. In the opening contest, local favourites Hong Kong clashed with cold-weather veterans Canada. Two-time Fortune Heights Snow Polo world champions, Hong Kong were keen to make The Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club hosted Asia’s amends for last year’s early exit against eventual champions first Snow Polo Challenge in 2011. The event has been Brazil. The Canadians, meanwhile, were looking to improve attracting thousands of guests year after year. The inaugural on a strong run that took them to the quarterfinals in 2015, event attracted a substantial media coverage and kept it’s but were defeated by the hungry dragons - as Team Hong promise for the future years. Kong roared into the finals flying through Argentina and Chile...

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Snow Polo World Cup Tianjin / Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club / Fortune Heights

February/March 2016

The dragon proved mightier than the lion at China’s magnificent Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club, as Hong Kong vanquished England to be crowned champions of the Snow Polo World Cup 2016. In four fiery chukkas of polo action, the Hong Kong trio of Henry Fisher, James Harper and Matias Vial were too hot for Alastair Paterson, George Meyrick and Jack Richardson of England to handle, winning by five goals to four. 2016’s final was a repeat of the 2014 Snow Polo World Cup final matchup, in which England narrowly triumphed 6 – 5, and Jack Richardson was awarded the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. This time, however, that honour belonged to Hong Kong’s James Harper, who was inspirational in the home side’s victory.

Spring you can come now! Photo

Snow Polo World Cup Tianjin / Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club / Fortune Heights

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Snow Polo World Cup Tianjin / Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club / Fortune Heights

And this is our wrap for the winter season, we will be back next winter with action filled news and beautiful photos as well as travel tips if you are looking for a fierce and yet enchanting horse filled escape to winter the globe’s winter wonderlands. About Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club: www.goldinmetropolitanhotel.com Now China’s largest polo facility, the exclusive, members-only club features state-of-the-art equestrian facilities including two internationalsized polo fields, stabling for 150 horses, training facilities, riding school and a 5-star hotel-style Clubhouse with guest accommodation, worldclass restaurants, Tianjin’s largest wine cellar with over 10,000 bottles of premium vintage wine, grand ballroom and spa.

February/March 2016

Snow Polo World Cup Tianjin / Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club / Fortune Heights

TECHNICAL NEVER LOOKED SO

OFFICIAL APPAREL PARTNER FOR THE

CANADIAN

WITH EQUINE CANADA

EQUESTRIAN TEAM ASMAREQUESTRIAN.COM