Equine Online June 2017
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INTRODUCING
some exciting new sections
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EQUINE ONLINE 3
EDITOR Hayley Clarke
From the Editor
CONTRIBUTORS Courtney Clarke Ashleigh Davis Hayley Clarke Harnessed Media Julia Latham Hana Wilson Virginia Caro Ashleigh Sanderson
COVER IMAGE Harness Jewels - Hayley Clarke
CONTACT US We would love to hear from you. Send us an email hayley@equineonline.co.nz
I’ve begun full time work for 10 weeks
out for their spell and hopefully both of
so juggling that and a magazine as well
them will do a bit of growing and filling
as everything else has been pretty full
out over the next few weeks before
on! So please bear with me over the next
getting back into it! I hope you’re all
few weeks while I get use to managing
enjoying these winter months as much
everything! This month we get another
as you can - look forward to catching you
detailed account of our Kuda Guru’s
next time...
advetures and we get to see a whole lot more pictures so we can engage in her experiences. Ashleigh our Foaling Midwife is back with more tips to help us prepare for our arrivals in a few months
x y e l ay
time and Courtney is back talking us through how she is overcoming her nerves and learning to canter! Julia Latham has written a great piece on how
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4 EQUINE ONLINE
she got started - a very good read and we have a photo spread of snaps from the recent Harness Jewels. Away from the magazine my boy Ben is still enjoying some time off and is definitely enjoying getting his covers off at any opportunity when the sunshine decides to present itself. Our race horses have been turned
H
What’s in this issue? 6
Milestone looming
8
Aussie horsemanship clinician coming to NZ
14
Our Kuda Guru is back with a very interesting read!
26
Check out the photo spread from the Harness Jewels
37
Monthly Madness is back!
26
10
14
EQUINE ONLINE 5
news
Milestone looming By- DUANE RANGER
By- DUANE RANGER for Harnessed Media
Photo by Trish Dunell
Ron Richardson has two more Alexandra Park starts to achieve his own personal milestone. And the Te Awamutu trainer will be relying on last Friday’s Alexandra Park winner, Classie American, to repeat the dose. If he can Richardson will end the season with four wins -one more than his previous best. The three-year-old has so far provided Richardson with all three of his wins in 2016-2017. They were at Manawatu on December 15, Cambridge Raceway on
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December 28, and last week’s threequarter length victory at ‘The Park’. Richardson has trained three winners on three other occasions since taking out his trainer’s licence in the early 1980s. That was in 2013-2014; 2012-2013; and 20092010. “He’s my only horse in work at present and I’ll probably line him again again at Alexandra Park on the 14th (July) and then possibly one more start at Alexandra Park after that. “He goes slightly better right-handed. The way he’s going now I’d like to think
he can give me my fourth win. He really sprinted home well on Friday. The races are getting tougher, but so is he,” Richardson said. By the he meant Classie American had taken some time to mature and even now he was still developing. “He’s always been a bit weak and has come back stronger this time in, but he’s still got some way to go yet. I think he will make a nice 4-year-old when he is fully matured,” said Richardson. The American ideal - Classic Vicolo gelding has only had eight starts since
winning his qualifying trial eight seconds under time at Cambridge Raceway on August 4 last year. Stakes-wise this season has been his most lucrative ($22,669) after 2013-2014 ($24,421). Last Friday Classie American had just his second start back since spelling on January 6. He was the $18.70 ninth favourite. Peter Ferguson settled Classie American last from his widest front row draw and they were fourth last of 11 at the bell. They were then four-deep on the markers on the home turn and then swept up wide before piercing through the middle with a strong late burst for victory. Classie American paced the 2200m mobile in 2:43 even (mile rate: 1:59.2) and came home in 58.2 and 29.5. “I was delighted with his run. He was a bit weak last time in and I think the wee break has done him the world of good. We are hoping he can go on with it like his older brother, Classic American (by American Ideal), who won one race here and a further 18 in Australia. “He’s the best I’ve trained and this fella would be second best. We sold Classic American to Perth in 2013 and I kept a share. “He still holds the Gloucester Park track record of 1:52.6. That’s pretty smart on an 800m track. He has won 18 races over there and more than a quarter of a million dollars,” Richardson said. “He’s also won the Binshaw and San Simeon Classics. That’s something I’m quite proud of,” he added. Richardson also has their two-year-old brother in work. “He’s also by American Ideal and is developing well. I bought into the family with my good friend Keith Hasler, who lives at home and helps me in the stable. “Keith introduced me to the family and we have won races with the first two foals out of the mare - American Classic (by American Ideal) and Classic Bet (by Bettor’s Delight),” Richardson said. Richardson has had 25 starters to the races this season and 646 since 1982. His career record stands at 31 winners, 85 place-getters and amassed $205,844 in lifetime stakes.
Check out this FACEBOOK page for the inspiring journey of a girl who wants to become a Para-olympian.
ONE GIRL, ONE PONY, 101 DREAMS https://www.facebook.com/onegirlonepony/
EQUINE ONLINE 7
Aussie horsemanship clinician coming to NZ By- HANA WILSON
Horsemanship clinician, Tanja Kraus,
the same attributes in our horses –
from Australia is set to visit New
Consistency,
Zealand in August for her second
Kindness,
series of clinics. I am hoping that you
trustworthyness and a willing partner.”
would like to share this news with your readers.
Reliability, Respect,
Calmness, Confidence,
Tanja travelled to Dust A Lone Ranch in Putararu, where she held the first
Tanja has done amazing things in
ever ‘Developing the Partnership’ clinic
her career so far. From the humble
in the region. Students enjoyed the
beginnings of teaching a few private
clinic so much, that they have asked
lessons to travelling abroad to share
Tanja to return later in the year - with
her skills and knowledge. Tanja is a true
clinics booked in August, on both the
professional, and skilled horsewoman.
North and South Island.
She has a unique ability to pass on her
While in New Zealand Tanja and her
knowledge in a safe environment, with
partner Phil Monaghan attended the
a clear and concise teaching method,
Inaugural Vaquero Gathering, held in
while complimenting students existing
Taupo, where Phil was a presenter. The
training. Tanja currently teaches across
Gathering celebrates the traditions
Australia, New Zealand and the United
and skills of the original Californian
States, where her clinics receive rave
Cowboys - the ‘Vaquero’. Phil and Tanja
reviews. Her passion is teaching kind
were invited along after successfully
horsemanship philosophies to develop
organising the first Australian Vaquero
a lasting partnership for the horse and
Gathering, which was held last year in
rider.
Glenreagh.
“My inspiration is teaching the horse and rider to be in tune, more flexible, supple, strong, athletic and confident. to develop our horse, ourselves and together. This includes written theory, rider biomechanics, ground exercises and ridden exercises. Whatever your discipline, or if you just ride your horse for a pleasurable hack on the weekends, we are all looking for
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Applying Tanja’s methods and philosophy, I have been able to gain the confidence to bring on my young warmblood mare, skilfully handle my foal and improve the performance and partnership of my competition horse that I use for Working Equitation. I truly believe Tanja has a unique way of communicating with the horse and rider, to allow success in the relationship with compassion, kindness and assertiveness”. “Without TKH, I have no doubt in my mind that I would never have known the true unity and bond authentic horsemanship gifts both horse and human”. “TKH has shown me that I can keep going to another level. I was stagnant with my skills and I didn’t think I could or
At each clinic we will discover how our relationship and communications
TESTIMONIALS “I have been riding for 50 years and attending Tanja’s clinics for 6 years. I have been to many lessons and clinics over the decades but Tanja’s have by far been the most inspirational and informative, with positive feedback. She has given me the skills and inspiration to stay riding and competing at a high level.
If you are interested in more information
my horse could go to another level, and
or interviewing Tanja, please contact
we have, our bond has strengthened,
me. Alternatively visit the website www.
my courage has also and my horse
horsemanshipforperformance.com
or
appreciates me so so much more, without
connect with us on Facebook www.
Tanya’s horsemanship skills and being
facebook.com/tanjakraushorsemaship.
the best teacher, we wouldn’t be looking forward to a future of progress”.
EVENTING SUPER LEAGUE ALL WOUND UP By- VIRGINIA CARO The ESNZ Eventing Super League concluded with the Pryde’s Easifeed CCI3* at the Saddleworld Melbourne International Three-day Event at Werribee Park over Australian Queen’s Birthday weekend, 8-12 June, as the New Zealand Oceania team competing there did not contest the final leg on home soil at the NRM National Three-day Event at Taupo. Samantha Felton’s second place on Ricker Ridge Pico Boo at Werribee not only helped the New Zealand team to an outstanding win in the Oceania Championships, but propelled her from seventh to third place in the Super League on Pico Boo, relegating stablemate Ricker Ridge Escada to fourth position. Ginny Thompson and Star Nouveau’s fourth place at Werribee ensured they retained second place in the League, and while they closed the gap on Donna Edwards-Smith and DSE Mr Hokey Pokey, the lead this diminutive palomino crowd favourite had established in the year long series proved unassailable. Jock Paget, who won the Melbourne event, had not contested a Super League class in New Zealand, having brought Angus Blue back from the UK when he returned home at the end of last year. The New Zealand thoroughbred, by Senor Pete, had minimal preparation for the Oceania Championships, but Paget said, “I’m very proud of him, he’s travelled all round the world, he’s not very big but he’s got a big heart.” The fourth member of the team, Andy Daines on Spring Panorama, was unable to add to his Super League points, and dropped a place to sixth after Felton’s rise up the rankings. Daines had the misfortune to be stopped on course after a competitor fell, while the fence was repaired, and was unable to establish his rhythm again, saying, “I was riding backwards from then on.”
Emily Cammock’s win on Shaw Lee in the NRM CCI3* at Taupo in May propelled her up the standings, after limited starts in the South Island, and was just reward for making the long trip from Christchurch with her two small children. She had been thwarted by cancellations on previous trips to the Horse of the Year in March and the Central Districts event in April. The presentation for all six of the ESNZ Eventing series takes place at the Annual Awards Dinner in Auckland on 1st July.
FINAL RESULTS - ESNZ Eventing Super League: Donna Edwards-Smith (Te Kauwhata), DSE Mr Hokey Pokey, 207 pts, 1; Ginny Thompson (Kaukapakapa), Star Nouveau, 171 pts, 2; Samantha Felton (Matangi), Ricker Ridge Pico Boo, 135 pts, 3; Felton, Ricker Ridge Escada, 129 pts, 4; Emily Cammock (Christchurch), Shaw Lee, 114 pts, 5; Andy Daines (Kumeu), Spring Panorama, 96 pts, 6.
EQUINE ONLINE 9
the horse midwife
Stage one labour - signs of foaling in the mare Column - ASHLEIGH DAVIS Equine Online is excited to have Ashleigh Davis on board to write a monthly column about Foal Education. Ashleigh is a well established ‘horse midwife’ who will bring us plenty of knowledge through her monthly columns. You can find out more about Ashleigh’s FoalEd business on her Facebook page or by emailing her. www.facebook.com/FoalEd info@foaled.co.nz
Hi everyone!
foalings on large farms in fine patches of
before foaling, as the changes and
Man these monthly posts come round
an otherwise stormy night as the mares
sensations their bodies undergo as foaling
grasp their chance in the good weather
approaches are very new and confusing
(speaking from first hand experience
for them. Maidens always require extra
here!).
attentiveness when it comes to foaling.
quickly! Sadly I’m now back in New Zealand in the freezing cold winter – BUT – it’s July.
vary
A separate post has been written
And that means that next month foaling
extraordinarily between individual mares.
specifically dealing with maidens; check
will start in the Thoroughbred world!
Some may display signs of discomfort for
out www.foaled.co.nz/blog for more
Foaling season rolls around so quickly,
days, others only in the hours before they
details.
but it’s definitely my favourite time of the
foal, where others may display nothing
And that means next month is August.
Stage
One
labour
can
year (minus the mares who foal in storms).
at all. This is why it is important to keep
Since we’re nearly at the start of the
a record of your mare’s behaviour leading
foaling season it makes sense to look at
up to foaling – it may help in years to
the start of the foaling process.
come if you breed her again!
Signs of Stage One labour can include (but are not limited to): -
filling of the udder (normally
occurs before Stage 1) -
filling of the teats and waxing
FOALING IN THE MARE
SIGNS OF FOALING IN THE MARE
up of the udder (as the mare moves closer
Foaling is divided into three distinct
Signs of foaling that begin too early
to foaling, normally still before Stage 1)
‘Stages of Labour; pre-partum, foaling,
can be warning signs. Vaginal discharges
- rolling
and post-partum. This post will deal with
are a common symptom of placentitis. If
-
Stage 1 Labour.
untreated, placentitis can result in foetal
- pawing - sweating
The first stage – pre-partum stage – can
abortion very quickly. Remember – if you
last anywhere from minutes to days. It
are concerned always call a vet to double
begins when the foal starts to move into
check.
the correct foaling session, and ends once the mare’s water has broken.
-
flank watching
pacing (walking very
purposefully without going anywhere)
Early signs, as well as no signs at all, are
- flehmen
also common in first time foalers known
-
kicking at their bellies
Mares have the ability (within reason)
as ‘maidens’. Maidens tend to have smaller
-
running milk
to control when they foal and have
udders and can often have no bag or wax
been known to ‘cross their legs’ in bad
and show no signs right up until foaling.
-
head tossing
-
loosening vulvas and
conditions or if they are stressed. It is not uncommon to have multiple
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Similarly
they
can
also
look
uncomfortable for days, even weeks
- loosening/relaxation
of posterior muscles
-
any other obvious changes in
normal demeanour -
general
air
of
being
uncomfortable and uneasy
POSITION OF THE FOAL
with its front legs forward and its head on
For the duration of the pregnancy the
top of its legs. This position is checked in
foal is upside down in the mare’s uterus.
Stage Two and anything other than this is
During Stage One the foal is moving into
deemed to be a dystocia.
As the mare gets closer to foaling
position and preparing itself for delivery
Stage 1 labour finishes when the mare’s
you could expect to see more of these
and this is what causes the mare to
water breaks – this is the beginning of
behaviours, and that the signs of foaling
become uncomfortable and display the
Stage 2 Labour, which will be the subject
would be getting closer and closer
signs and behaviours listed above.
of next month’s post.
together.
The foal moves into an upright position
EQUINE ONLINE 11
Have you noticed similar timelines in your mares? What signs do you look for to know something is wrong or as triggers to call the vet? I’d love to hear about your experience from you so feel free to get in touch at info@foaled.co.nz and remember – if there’s something you want to see just let me know! Until then, happy foaling all! The Horse Midwife P.S. if you have a question please feel free to check out our Website (www.FoalEd.co.nz) or Facebook Support Group (www.facebook.com/ groups/foaledsupportgroup).
WANT TO ASK ASHLEIGH A QUESTION? SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO INFO@FOALED.CO.NZ AND THE ANSWER TO YOUR QUESTION WILL FEATURE IN NEXT MONTHS MAGAZINE
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EQUINE ONLINE 13
kuda guru
DIFFERENT THOUGHTS FROM DIFFERENT CULTURES
Text - ASHLEIGH SANDERSON
One thing that I love about my nomadic
America, from Africa, Asia or Australia,
There are differences though, huge,
lifestyle, is seeing all the different ways in
and they all work the same – they have
black and white differences, in how we
which we care for, ride and interact with
the same muscles and skeleton forming
approach, think about and care for our
horses. A horse is a horse, and all horses
their body, the same movement, and
horses. Some of things I see and love –
speak horse – sounds slightly odd, and
are prone to the same problems, issues
some I hate, and most I can see the logic
yes, logical, but some people think it is
and unsoundness’s. The issue is never
behind and give me more tools for my
weird that I can work with horses all over
in being able to speak horse, but often
tool kit. In many cases there is no right
the world. And I always say to them, but
in speaking the human language – I do
or wrong, and I have no desire to point
he is a horse – the same everywhere. I
sometimes require a human translator
fingers or condemn, but some things are
can work with horses from Europe, from
when I am teaching!
trickier to understand. I am the person
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If you would like to follow my travels, thoughts, blogs and learn more you can follow my Facebook page, www.facebook.com/Kudaguru or my new and improved website will be up and running this month at www.kudaguru.com
nosebands, gadgets, ropes and pulleys,
as much of their time as possible, out in
ever stronger bits. Just teach your novice
big herds, wandering their fields, picking
riders, on well-educated, safe horses and
at grass as they went. Many horses have
then life is simple. And boots? Well yes,
less space than zoo animals, and yet a lot
if your horse does indeed brush, knock
of people hate zoos because of seeing the
himself, damage his legs, add boots or
animals living in such unnatural spaces.
even bandages, but if you go for a jog
One of the things that really gets
around the block, do you add a range
ingrained into your brain, is always call a
of shin guards, anti-rubbing straps and
vet at the first possible sign of any trouble.
protection? No, just a good pair of shoes,
That, I think, was one of the longest lasting
a balanced way of running, an awareness
voices that remained with me when I left
of where your legs are, and off you go. I
for Zimbabwe, where we do much of the
still firmly believe that the majority of
basic horse work ourselves. Vets are not
who will watch a trainer do something….
horses don’t need boots, or half of the
that available, and have to cover large
And ask questions – Why do that? What is
other “stuff” that they are made to wear.
distances making them expensive and
your aim? How does it work? As a trainer,
We were also taught the correct way to
slower. The first time I was handed a box
I am always happy to explain when
do stable management – if dealing with a
of 40 horse vaccinations, 40 syringes and
someone asks me – if fact I would love to
horse in a stable, have him tied up – that
40 needles and told to go and vaccinate
explain rather than have someone watch,
way he can’t get injured with the pitch fork
all the horses in the yard was somewhat
think that is different therefore wrong.
you are cleaning his stable with, push you
of an experience…. But… But, don’t
The hardest times are when a trainer is
around or walk out of the door. Never go
we call the vet? I was given a withering
not open minded enough to ask about
behind the horse. Always bend or crouch
look, a two-minute lesson on the first two
something that challenges their own
down to deal with his legs, never kneel.
horses, and told to get on with it. The
personal training or belief.
Speak to the horse to let him know you
different “norms” of horse care began to
England
are there, but no shouting. This simple
show themselves…
I learnt to ride as a child in England, at
foundation of how to be with a horse in
Zimbabwe
a very fancy British Horse Society training
a solid, safe way was firmly engrained and
On returning to Zimbabwe after leaving
yard, known as one of the best around,
now I wouldn’t be able to do things in
school, I was reintroduced to the very
and am so very grateful for the solid base
any other way. Sure, I have learnt to bend
Zimbabwean term of – Make A Plan. It is
I was given. They were very tradition, did
certain rules with certain horses, but a
a third world country, and you cannot just
things correctly and safely.
foundation in England or similar is the
pop to the shops to buy whatever it is you
best start to your horse related life.
need. There are no saddlers who will come
The horses and ponies were mainly cobby types, locally sourced, tough
And, horses live out. If you think of a
out to fit a saddle for you, and limited
Mostly not too fancy or
stable as a cage – would you keep your
supplies of tack. So, you make a plan. Buy
refined that wouldn’t stand up to work,
dog in the same size cage in relation to
your saddle when away on holiday, and
but some exceptional school masters
his size? No. There is often upset about
make a plan with pads, shims and risers
as well. Every horse had his or her own
dogs, such as working security dogs etc,
to make it fit. A trip to your supermarket
snaffle bridle and a saddle. A headcollar.
who spend their day or night, when not
yields you all sorts of treasures, from
A rug in winter. And that was about it. If I
working, in a cage that is a couple of
green soap and sugar to poultice wounds,
remember right, one horse in the yard had
metres square. But, we think nothing
a baby nappy to hold it in place, and a can
a pair of brushing boots and a running
of keeping a horse in a cage he can
of Coke to help with equine dehydration.
martingale when he was in a jumping
only just turn around in and lie down in.
You learn bush medicine pretty fast,
lesson. And, I still consider this as normal
Horses are not designed for cages, but
and can always take something and
– if you school your horse correctly, there
for wandering many miles a day, and my
repurpose it for another use. Your horse is
should be no need for martingales, tight
first introduction was of horses spending
rubbing his tail? Deworm him first, then
cross-breds.
EQUINE ONLINE 15
mix mouthwash and baby oil 50/50 in a
a friend of mine owned a vegetable
die every year. There isn’t a cure to give
bottle and rub it into his tail daily – the oil
growing small holding, and a farm stall, so
– treatment is more about giving support
soothes, the mouthwash kills bugs, the
I collected boxes of waste everyday – the
to the horse, and it seems the strong ones
rubbing usually stops fast. And yogurt,
outside lettuce leaves, carrot tops, pea
survive and the weak ones don’t.
oh, let’s start listing all that yogurt does…
shells etc, which got added to the horse’s
Ticks are bad news, for two main
Make a plan indeed.
daily hard feeds and kept everyone happy.
reasons. Firstly, they carry Biliary, similar
Having started in UK and always being
Three of the problems that horses in
to tick bite fever, and this again, kills many
alert to overweight ponies on lush
Africa face are African Horse Sickness,
horses, although they can be saved if the
grazing being prone to Laminitis, what a
ticks and lighting. African horse sickness
symptoms are discovered fast enough.
difference to see nothing but sand and
is a horrific disease spread by small,
The other reason is that they suck the
dust through the dry season, and green
biting midge type flies, and causes a
horse’s blood, leading to weakness,
grass through the rainy season, that has a
huge number of fatalities. In Zimbabwe,
anaemia and loss of condition. Sadly, it
lot less goodness. The grass in Zimbabwe
the rains come from about August /
is common to see horses in some areas
is a lot more water and less goodness and
September through to April. From May
with bent over ears – and this folding of
sugars, meaning that Laminitis and obese
until late August there is no rain at all.
the ear is due to tick damage. The ticks
ponies practically doesn’t happen. The
Now, the little biting flies like the rain,
love to go into the soft, warm, dry ear and
problem becomes more, how can you
so as soon as the rain begins, they start
bite into the skin there. With enough of
grow Lucerne (alfalfa) and other crop
breeding, and coming out to bite the
them, the ligaments and cartilage in the
grasses, with limited water, to keep horses
horses. With an incubation period of a few
ear is damaged, leading to thickening
happy through the dry season? And most
weeks, horses start to show symptoms
and folding of the ears. When I lived in
feed rooms have an ancient, hand run
early in the new year. Although there is
Zimbabwe and had my own riding school
chaff cutter, for chopping all this lovely
a vaccination, given as two injections,
there, many of my school ponies were
greenery for the horse’s feeds. Luckily,
many horses, ponies, donkeys and mules
rescues who had had a tough time at some
16 EQUINE ONLINE
point, and it was almost a uniform, that so
injured foal due to this. Two pony mares
many of them had a folded ear! Instead
and their foals were on temporary livery
in Africa! I was very lucky in my time there, that
of thinking of it as a blemish, I took it as a
at a local stud farm, as I was out of the
Zimbabwe was an FEI development
badge of honour, that the pony had had
country and hadn’t wanted to leave two
country,
meaning
a difficult time and had come out of that,
young foals at home without specialised
Equestre
Internationale
still smiling and able to do a useful job.
foal supervision. On my return, I was
equine body) was spending a lot of
Many trail horses, school horses, working
told that the four of them had been in a
money of developing riders there. So, we
cattle ponies etc have hogged (clipped or
sheltered, well treed paddock during a
had a steady flow of Olympic riders and
roached) manes, making it easier to get
storm. After the storm, the grooms went
trainers coming through and teaching us
tick controlling dip right onto the skin
to collect them, and found the two mares
all, way more accessible then in Europe.
and not washed off the long mane. And,
standing on a granite slab, calling for their
(It was through this scheme that I ended
dipping is at least a weekly chore.
babies. One had been struck and killed
up working for an Olympic eventer in
Lightning is also a big killer in Africa,
instantly, the other had been thrown into
Ireland for a while – huge learning curve,
striking many cattle and people each
a wire fence and had torn his ear in half
but proof the scheme really does work).
year. A lot of southern Africa is granite
on it. He also grew up with a folded ear,
Then, there was limited access to
based, making it a perfect attraction for
joining the ranks of the tick damaged
warmbloods or purpose bred competition
lightning hits, and sadly this leads to
ponies without having had the ticks to
horses, and mostly we rode off the track
victims. Horses also get struck, and for
start it off. Even to this day, I will teach
Thoroughbreds.
this reason many are stabled through
happily in the wind, rain, snow (well, not
popped them in a horse box, took them
late afternoon until early the following
so happily, but I still show up and get it
home and started to ride them the next
morning, as evenings are a common time
done), but the second I see lightning on
day, hacking them out, schooling and
for big thunder storms, as they build up
the horizon, I am legging it back under
playing with jumping poles. Considered
through the day. I lost a foal, and had an
shelter. One of the effects of growing up
very normal – I am still amazed when
the
Federation (the
global
We looked at them,
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I see people who consider re-backing them as a year -long project, before really schooling them on - treating them as totally untrained horses. Thoroughbreds who have been well treated by their trainers are already vastly experienced, they know about travelling, working with others, standing quietly for washing, plaiting and treatment. They have seen crowds and heard loud music, and are ready for new experiences. I still have a very soft spot for Thoroughbreds and if I own another horse one day, I suspect it will be an ex-race horse again. South Africa Moving to South Africa, was similar, but different (or same same but different as they say in Asia) As with Zimbabwe, a lot of riders are on Thoroughbreds, but they are moving faster than Zimbabwe on switching to more and more warmbloods. I believe this is for two reasons – one, there is more disposable money around, and secondly, the ground.
Africa has much harder
ground than Europe - there is less rain fall, and even when there is rain, the ground can have a hard sting to it. Big European warmbloods simply cannot stay sound on this hard surface. Now, the warmbloods
hind leg, that turned out to be a puff
They are set to catch small antelope,
are becoming lighter and more athletic,
adder bite. These snakes are dangerous
rabbits, cattle and sometimes horses.
and in SA there are so many purpose built
because they are slow and lazy, where
An old horse of mine had been loaned
arenas that jumping on the good old
most snakes will slither away to avoid
out to someone who grazed them on
fashioned hard grass isn’t generally done
human contact, these will lie in the path,
viel land, and he stood in a snare, which
much.
and when you almost standing on them,
cut through to the bone just below his
When I first moved my horses from
they bite. Their venom doesn’t kill, but
hock (knee) on the hind leg. The wire
Zimbabwe to South Africa there were
causes the tissue to die and slough off
bit in tight and severed all tendons. The
some new things to think of though.
the limb. That was a revolting couple
vet who saw him suggested putting him
Horse sickness, ticks and lightning as all
of months, with the stench on opening
down but I had a very soft spot for this
still problems, but we add in more snakes
the bandage spreading right across the
particular old man, so took him home,
too. I had to deal with my first two major
property, but the leg came right and
and many, many weeks, rolls of cotton
equine injuries there – first off was a big
Haiwon returned to the jumping arena
wool, bandages, tubs of medicine, blood
black riding school pony called Haiwon.
after that. The other bad injury that I
sweat and tears, he was sound enough to
He was gorgeous and a firm favourite
had to deal with there was a wire snare.
play in the paddock and take small, light
with many of the riders. He came in from
Snares are common in viel (pronounced
children out for walking rides. He lived on
the paddock one day with a very sore
flay) areas – rough, open grass bush land.
a good few years after that.
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Another aspect of typical South Africa – I
to the races and vaccinate all the horses
pro Thoroughbred mind is great!) These
have mixed feelings about. It is the home
for African Horse Sickness. Seeing it, the
make awesome polo ponies and eventers.
of a great deal of bush racing, where local
very proud owners, the majority of horses
The horses who I see in Kenya are
farmers and business men take their
in good condition, well fed, turned out
safari horses, many of whom raced, then
horses for races in the middle of nowhere,
beautifully and in good tack, you see the
went on to become eventers, jumpers,
over a rough track through fields or open
pride, tradition and spirit it encourages.
polo ponies or dressage horses, before
land. The bad things about this – many
If there were a way to keep the good
“retiring” to the quieter life of chasing
of these horses are lame, sore or not
stuff going without the negative side,
down herds of elephants, galloping with
receiving adequate care, and this should
everyone could be happy. A big job there
giraffe or running with wild dogs. Such a
of course be stopped. The tracks are
though….
retirement….
rough, hard, often stony ground. It also
Kenya
encourages horse theft, when people see
Although it would be several years
kept stabled at night to avoid predators –
a possible champion bush racer, the horse
before I travelled to Kenya, I am keeping
they can easily be taken by a lion – but get
is ether not for sale or out of reach, so he is
Africa together!
to go out grazing all day, in the bush close
The lucky horses who I see need to be
magicked away in the middle of the night.
Kenya is still very colonial and old
to home, with a human guard to watch
Again, for this reason there is a big push to
school English. Eventing and polo are still
over them. An idyllic life for a former
ban it. However, I went bush racing with
popular, and there are some lovely horses
competition horse.
a friend who is an equine vet, and had
there, and still, from what I have seen,
been hired by the local government to go
mainly Thoroughbred.
(Which in my
The following is an extract of a blog I wrote on leaving Kenya the first time…
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There were two massive highlights for
not move, they would come closer to
snort, from the bottom of his feet. His
me – where the staff really came into
investigate, and we weren’t to move. If he
version of an elephants warning trumpet,
their own and it was awesome to be
was worried, he’d would get out in front
I’m quite sure it was deliberate… The
back in Africa. Simon (the lodge’s head
of us, but don’t move. After seconds or
matriarch cow came charging towards
guide) had a knack of knowing where
hours, the puppies had enough rest and
us, ears flapping, in a mock charge. Now,
the animals would go at all times.
On
playtime time, the pack re-grouped and
if we had stood our ground she would
the first day, we saw a herd of Elephants
off they trotted to the next hunt. We
have stopped, but by now Angola had
drinking at a water hole. We were in two
(stiffly, feeling old again) climbed back in
got everyone on their toes and fired up,
different game vehicles and he parked
and off we went. Quite amazing. I don’t
and all four horses went Oh My Word
ours one side of a track, got the driver
think many people could have predicted
RUN…. We all pulled up within a couple
to park on the other side, saying they
it to that degree, or could have got me to
of strides and turned back to face them,
would cross through the middle, sure
lie on the ground with a pack of prolific
but by then the matriarch had figured she
enough, they walked (rather suspiciously,
hunters.
had the upper hand and came at us again.
lots of ear flapping) through the gap.
The second thing was hilarious, again it
As Daisy said, she was playing with us,
On one particular occasion though, we
ended up with my friend Sara, and I. We
knowing she could push us around, but
were looking for wild dogs. They are
were on a game ride, Sara and I, Daisy
discretion being the better part of valour
the second rarest predator in Africa, and
(another of the amazing riding guides)
Sosian has one of the biggest packs. After
and one of the grooms, also called
being told they were very hungry since
Simon.
they have 12 puppies to feed, and how
called Angola, a tough little bay gelding,
was ooops, elephants behind, thorns
they are incredible hunters, working as
ex polo pony who was game (excuse
in front, which is worse?
the pun) for anything and had a good
Daisy’s thoughts were hmmm, if there is
burst of speed. And a sense of humour.
an elephant guard behind this bush, we
Angola likes it when you stop to look at
in trouble… Luckily Angola’s thoughts
game, because he gets to stop and pack
were clearly Yippppeeeeee, lets RUN,
as much grass into his mouth as possible,
and he whipped us past thorn trees, over
taking it with him as a picnic. They are
rocks and bushes and well away from
allowed to graze, since it keeps them
elephants. Again, poor Simon the groom
quiet. We approached a water hole just
had to hold his horse straight and facing
lie on the floor and takes photos. I said
as a herd of elephants was entering from
them until us idiot tourists were out the
ya, right. He said, absolutely, but with the
the opposite side.
way – these guides and their horses have
slight grin that makes you think he’s not
were only a couple, but more and more
totally serious. Sure enough, 2 minutes
kept coming. It was a young herd, with
later, the pack came through. I said, get
a few adults and lots of calves. The main
out? Really? He said sure, get out. Sara
cow knew we were there, but wasn’t too
and I were in the dirt before he could
bothered. Angola got fed up, we had
change his mind. The Mom came around
stopped on a granite sheet with NOTHING
the corner leading the puppies, saw us,
to EAT. So, he started stepping forwards,
thought about life, and wandered off to
backwards, pawing his feet. Steel shoes
talk to her fellow pack members, leaving
time to run, don’t be tempted to argue
on granite, tap, tap, tap, tap.
the case….
a team and being successful 80% of the time, we were parked in the game vehicle, in thick bush where the radio tracking collars told us the matriarch was hunting with her pack. Simon turned to me and said that the pack should break out just to the side of us, and if they did, to get out,
I had the most awesome horse
We thought there
and all that, Daisy said NOW, GO. And she and I turned to see we were caught up in a semi-circle of thorn trees. My thought Apparently,
a great skill in cantering backwards… I now, truly understood just how much horses can learn to play and interact with other animals – when riding with wild African game, you are so reliant on these horse’s brains and instincts – when they are happy pushing into an animal’s space, great, but when your horse says too close,
the puppies watching us, watching them,
As Daisy was whispering to us, be quiet,
watching us, watching them. Very quietly,
So, that is Africa from my eyes – next
she’s heard us, stay still, watch what that
Simon was telling us to stay still, be quiet,
month we move to Asia and the Middle
one is doing, Angola let out the biggest
East!
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columns
The DIARY of a nervous rider INTRODUCING
some exciting new sections
Column - COURTNEY CLARKE
Keep up to date with the diary of a nervous rider - coming to you each month
This month has been a pretty quiet one the whole time (we had been working to myself this is not fun at all. I am PAGE 37 - EO Buy & $ell - Looking to sell horses or some gear orthought trying to find something
really.
on this so much as well so it was super
not enjoying this at all. I was scared and
inparticular? our Buy & $ell page to do She justdidn’t that. Free month $2notper disappointing). listen and for all theI first was nervous and then that was helping Early in the monthUse I attended another
ridden was after an absolute listingshow perwhich month that.
wassell worried about wasitems Gordy. Inin Best Poppy orPictures myself. So I got off. info My sister got Youshe can multiple one listing. and Mare we were asked to trot and she just on and rode her in a couple of classes for must be supplied, Email hayley@equineonline.co.nz trotted straight for the fence and I had me to try and finish on a good note. I was
disaster. There really is no other way to
describe it. It was doomed well before the day even arrived.
no control at all. This scared me and I
really disappointed and upset for the next
I am rehoming another Standardbred Gordy who is paddocking with Poppy. I knew deep down that by taking Gordy to the show in the inhand section and then riding Poppy wasn’t going to work because Poppy is a bit of a baby when
COMING SOON - Check it out - Wanting to advertise your small business but not wanting to spend heap money? inhand show aayear ago of when her other We’ve got the solution for you! Advertise in our ‘Check it out’ stablemate came along she was rearing section for just $20 a month. Additional costs will apply if you are wanting us to produce and had ants in her pants and all her your advertisement. in touch at hayley@equineonline.co.nz for more details. manners were out the window. Get S I knew a stablemate comes to a show. In an
that I needed to take her to some inhand shows with a stablemate before I rode but I didn’t and I wish I had! It also didn’t help that she didn’t go on the float and when we actually arrived we had no time (we had to take Gordy to the show and then Mum and Dad had to go back and get Poppy). And as I expected once Poppy saw Gordy all her manners and everything we had been working on was gone. I had to ride out the back
Your Youradvertisement advertisement here here
of the line-up for Best Presented as she wouldn’t stand still or stop neighing out or listen at all. In Best Walking she paced
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Never give up on your dream Column - JULIA LATHAM
A little insight into how JULIA LATHAM got started...
A long time ago a little girl moved from
one could do anything with the pony and
and the little girl excitedly got ready to
England to New Zealand with her family.
that if she wanted him she could have
start Pony Club. But the Pony Club was
More than anything in the world the little
him. Finally, a pony of her own!
horrified that a little girl was riding a
girl wanted a pony but her family weren’t
The little girl biked home as fast as she
stallion and she was not allowed to go.
could and told her parents that she had a
The little girl however was very stubborn
She used to spend hours biking around
pony. A paddock was rented and a family
and she would bike to Pony Club and
the countryside looking for ponies and
friend agreed to pick the pony up in their
watch the other kids then bike home and
dreaming about owning a pony of her
horse float.
practice what she had seen on her pony.
horsey and didn’t have much money.
own. Then one day she found a little white
So they all went to pick up the pony
pony all by himself in a paddock. He had a
and the little girl was so excited until the
tangled mane and tail and looked like no
family friend exclaimed: “you can’t have
one cared about him.
that pony! He’s a stallion!”
The little girl would bring him carrots
“What’s a stallion?” said the little girl’s
and talk to him. She found an old brush
mother. So it was explained to the family
and started untangling the mane and
that a stallion was not at all suitable for a
brushing his coat. One day she climbed
little girl. But that little girl was extremely
up the gate and sat on his back. The pony
stubborn and no one was going to say
wandered around grazing while the little
she couldn’t have her pony. She showed
girl sat on him and talked away.
them how she could climb on and ride
This carried on until one day the owner turned up and saw the little girl on his pony. He called her over and said that no
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him with no saddle and no bridle. She loved him and he was her pony. So the pony went to his new paddock
One day she would be a really good rider and have a riding school and never turn people away because they didn’t fit in. At the Pony Club was a little boy with a beautiful chestnut pony. The little girl thought he was amazing. Now forty years later the little girl is a really good rider and has a beautiful equestrian property where she teaches all kinds of people to ride and enjoy their horses. And the little boy with the chestnut pony…. Well she married him. So never give up on your dream…. I didn’t.
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Quote it!
Winners are not people who never fail, but people who never quit
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The DIARY of a nervous rider Column - COURTNEY CLARKE
Keep up to date with the diary of a nervous rider - coming to you each month
This month has been pretty quiet really. Winter is hard – you leave for work in the dark and arrive home again in the dark! I have managed to keep squeezing in my weekly riding lessons which I am loving! I have been riding a very very quiet horse called Tess. She is extremely push button and more woah than go which suits me! To be completely honest when I first started my lessons I was really scared to trot but the instructor asked me to trot so quickly into the lesson that I didn’t really have chance to react to how scared I was. After more and more trotting I was getting really comfortable on Tess and was even trotting without stirrups which was great for my balance and my own confidence. After a few lessons I was asked to ride a different horse. I was very nervous about this and really uncomfortable but I did it. His movements were quicker than Tess and his trot was more bouncy but I was proud to be able to adjust to a new horse. I
have
always
been
quite
one
dimensional with horses – I am 100%
this month.
me verbally what these things are but to actually see them myself is invaluable.
comfortable with Poppy on the ground
Record yourself. Even if it is just on a
but with another horse I can be some
phone or even just photos. I am a visual
So that’s about it for me this month –
what weary and unconfident. So moving
learner and actually being able to see
Poppy will come back into work within
to a new horse even for 1 lesson was a big
what I am doing and how I am asking
the next two weeks, she’s bored and
deal for me.
for something and giving aids is such
destroying salt blocks and being a little
I have now been riding Tess again
an incredible learning tool. I thought
tart at tea time! I also have another OTT
and have just started cantering off the
my figure of eight was awful. So bad!
Standardbred Gordy who I plan to do
lunge. This week I was actually confident
But when I watched it myself I didn’t do
some groundwork with over the next
enough to push her on in the canter and I
a bad job for my first attempt. Yes there
wee while and see how I go working with
attempted a figure of eight in the canter.
is a lot of stuff to work on but now I can
another horse.
Which brings me to my piece of advice for
also see what that is. My instructor can tell
Keep Warm x
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Picture perfect
Harness Jewels 2017
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check it out
LINCOLN EQUESTRIAN MARKET Last year we ran a not for profit equestrian Market Day for local businesses and second hand sellers in Prebbleton. It was a huge success and in response to requests from people who attended we have agreed to run it again this year.
SUNDAY AUGUST 13 2017 FROM 10:00-15:00 AT THE LINCOLN EVENT CENTRE, MEIJER DRIVE LINCOLN.
Everyone is welcome to book a stall, or come and browse and catch up with other equestrian people. FOR MORE DETAILS OR TO BOOK A STALL CONTACT Glynnis.clarke@gmail.com
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Franco Tallis (Gordy) 5 year old brown Standardbred gelding Retired from racing on 1st April. 15.2 unofficially measured Well put together and moves nicely. Will need time to fill out. Gordy went to his first show on 7th May. We were very late (floating issues with my mare!!) We got there and the first class was already started so we literally pulled him off the float and into the ring and he was such a gentleman. He really seemed to love it and was perfectly behaved. He then was happily tied up for the afternoon while I rode my mare and again he was perfect!! I would love to see him in the show ring when he has built up
and I think he will really enjoy showing. A good home is absolutely essential $200 Rolleston, Christchurch Phone or text 0276364355
WANTED 5ft Show set - hood/tailbag/cover Phone or text - 0273751609
Your advertisement here
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monthly madness TH F O E
MEM
H
NT O M E
TIP TIME Make use of space at a show and be careful not to push your horse or pony out of its natural rhythm.
ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha JOKES UP!
Arion Animal of the Month
Did you hear about the man who was hospitalized with six plastic horses inside him? The doctor described his condition as stable.
ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha PHOTO OF THE MONTH
Name - Percy Age - 1 week old Favourite Food - Milk Fun Fact - He loves to lie by the fire
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next month
We have an exciting giveaway coming up! We have more from our foaling midwife. Our monthly columns will be back to inspire you in every way! Our Kuda Guru will be back with more exciting adventures! Keep an eye out for our next Arion Animal of the Month! We will have more up to date news from around the country. We will check in with Marie Palzer as she gets set to tackle tie Mongolian Derby! AND keep an eye out for our new pony club section!
Want your pony club to feature in Equine Online? Send us your details and we will be in touch with details on our exciting new section!
Want to feature in Equine Online? Look out for the Facebook prompt or send us your photos to hayley@equineonline.co.nz for your chance to be our
PHOTO OF THE MONTH!
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