March 2011
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The Natural Side page 19
page 6 page 29
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page 20 page 16
From the Editor Gaited Canada is going through another growth spurt!! I am very pleased to introduce two new columns that are sure to help gaited horse owners. With two trainers, saddle fitting and farrier consultation you are sure to find the answers to your questions or learn interesting and horse healthy information. It has been a year since our first issue. I can not say it hasn’t been a LOT of work, but I am thrilled with the results! Mike Kavanagh showing MFT Ranch Horse Versatility class at the 2007 world show
Our publish dates have changed, and our deadlines for advertising and editorial submissions has been shortened due to an increase in design and demand.
Stefanie
3. Missouri Fox Trotter From the Missouri Ozarks
10. Wild Pink Yonder On the road to a cure 12. Extreme Challenges how extreme is extreme
16. Product Review - Winter riding boots Our readers test boots from 3 different makers
20. Manning Park simply breath taking
06. Training Q&A 19. The Natural Side 27. Association & Clubs 29. Saddle Up 30. Breeder Directory 30. Stallion Directory 31. Classifieds
Volume 2 - Issue #1 January/February 2011 Gaited Canada Publisher: Trademark Design Stefanie Schermerhorn Editor editor@gaited.ca 1-877-801-7276 (toll free) Gaited Canada online is published bi-monthly: Jan/Feb, March/April, May/June, July/Aug, Sept/Oct and Nov/Dec. The views and opinions expressed in this publication throughout the features, columns and advertisements are not necessarily those of the Trademark Design. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be duplicated or used within other sites or publications without written permission from the publisher.
Developed from horses in the Missouri Ozarks, the Missouri Fox Trotter is a gentle and stylish breed whose heritage can be traced to the horses of early settlers coming to the Ozarks from Kentucky, Illinois, Tennessee and Arkansas. Settlers of the rugged foothills of Missouri were dependant on a horse that was surefooted and had the ability to do whatever was needed around the homestead, ranging from plowing, hauling logs and working cattle, while at the same time being able to double as a stylish buggy horse or riding horse for the family. They recognized that a horse with a natural four beat gait would suit the rocky and forested land. Whatever the need, these selectively bred using horse proved capable and adaptable. Early breeders selectively bred for the gliding fox trot by blending American Saddlebred, Standardbreds, and Tennessee Walkers with the Morgan, Thoroughbred and Arabian. Influential stallions include Brimmer, a Thoroughbred, Old Skip, a Morgan/Thoroughbred cross, and the two American Saddlebred stallions, Chief and Cotham Dare; And often selected breeding stock based on horses with fast running speeds.
on the ozark trail - Kleipzig Mill and Rocky Creek
Conformation: The Missouri Fox Trotting Horse generally stands between 14 and 16 hands in height, and averages between 900 to 1200 pounds. The horse should stand well on its feet, be erect, wide awake and alert. The neck should be graceful, in proportion to length of body, and joined to the body in a manner pleasing to the eye. The fox trotting horse should have a neat, clean, symmetrically shaped head of medium length; pointed ears that are well shaped; eyes that are large, wide set and bright; and a tapered muzzle with large nostrils. The back should be reasonably short and strong, the body deep and the ribs well-sprung. The flank should be sleek, and the chest deep and full. The shoulders should be sloped at a 45 to 50 degree angle, and moderately muscled. The legs should be muscular and tapered. The foot should be well made, strong and in proper proportion to the size of the horse. The overall condition of the horse should be reflected by its demeanor, body weight, muscular definition and tone, hair coat, and the feet. In form to function, good conformation permits the gaits to be performed in the proper manner. Proper conditioning and correct conformation will permit the horse to carry weight for an extended period of time, in comfort to the rider.
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performed in a square, stylish manner. The gait is to be accomplished with animation, overstriding the front track. There is to be reach in each stride, front and rear. A four beat gait is distinctly different from the fox trot which has a broken rhythm. When correctly performing the flat foot walk, you will hear a steady, equal four beat cadence produced by the hooves, the head shake will be more animated than in the fox trot, and the rider will be getting a smooth ride.
Sensation’s Mr. Jim performs a fox trot gait - rider Wesley Worsham of Tulsa, OK
Fox Trot: The fox trot is a broken diagonal gait performed by walking in front and trotting behind, with reach in each stride. The front hoof of the diagonal pair strikes the ground just before the rear hoof, and one front hoof is on the ground at all times in a correct foxtrot. The fox trot has a motion and rhythm that carries from the nose through the tail. The fox trot gait will be performed in a stylish collected manner by walking in front and trotting behind with striding reach, both front and rear. There should not be excessive animation, nor should there be climbing or exaggerated knee motion in the front legs. The back feet will exhibit a sliding action resulting from the horse breaking at the hocks. The horse will disfigure or overstep his track, and shall travel straight on all four legs. The head will be carried slightly elevated, with rhythmic motion in time with the movement of the rear feet. The tail will be carried naturally, and should emphasize the rhythm of the gait. The exceptional rhythm of the fox trotting horse begins at the tip of the nose with the characteristic headshake and continues back through the ripple of the tail. Flat Foot Walk: The flat foot walk shall be a flat, four beat gait
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Canter: The canter is a three beat gait and shall be performed in a straight, collected manner with the head and tail
slightly elevated. The horse shall travel with a forward rolling motion while on the correct lead, Tboth front and rear. The three-beat gait is performed with a rocking motion, starting from the outside rear foot, then to the inside rear-outside front combination, and then to the inside front foot. The head should be at its lowest point when the inside front foot is on the ground. The canter is not a fast moving gait, and the horse should appear relaxed and move freely.
in putting on their annual Show and Celebration. One year after that three barns were constructed. The association, and the breed has continued to grow; the facility and association currently include 130 acre showgrounds, with 17 - 50 stall barns. The main Show Arena, a Versatility Arena, and two warm up arenas. There are 334 full service RV sites and a restaurant. Today there are over 94,000 horses registered and more than 8,000 members.
In 1948 a group of 15 owners and breeders concerned with preserving the breed secured a charter and created the first stud book. The association and breed continued to grow at a good rate, but in 1955 the Secretary's home burned and with it the stud book along with all of the association records. There was a lot of confusion, and of course discouragement, but the charter was kept going. Then in 1958 the association was reorganized with a larger capital and group of owner and breeders, and in 1959 the first Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Jubilee Celebration was held in Ava, Missouri with 14 classes. In 1976, the Association purchased land just outside of Ava, Missouri, to establish a showgrounds to use
Riders and horses display their best form during English Pleasure class competition at the 2010 Spring Show and Futurity competition of the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association in Ava, Missouri
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with Jamie Drizin Sharon in Manitoba asks: Why is lateral work important, and what are the best beginner lateral exercises to work with on with my gaited horse.. Excellent question. Lateral work, as defined in dressage, is any work where the horse is moving forward and sideways at the same time. The idea in lateral work is to have the horse work more “under itself”, that is, working with it’s hind end more towards it’s centerline. This position improves the horses’ ability to build and retain self carriage and thus will improve strength, straightness, impulsion, collection, aid in suppleness and help to improve lightness. The lateral movements are the shoulder-in, the counter shoulder-in, travers, renvers and half-pass. The first thing to understand about the lateral movements is that these are more advanced and your horse must first understand and respond to your leg, seat and hands. It should be relaxed in the bit and responsive to your touch. Asking a horse to do these movements without covering these bases covered first will make a poor and frustrating experience for both horse and rider. When I teach students I introduce them to the idea that we are really communicating to the horse in a language. This language is mostly made up of syllables and accents. For example, riding on a straight line I want to do a reverse of direction with my horse, a simple 180 degree turn. I will first use my inside leg to aid in getting the bend I desire and then my rein to supplement the rest of the turn. I can say this is a two syllable word. In this case I can use the word “target”. The “tar” represents the pressure of the inside leg and the “get” is the rein.
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These two syllables together, in that order make a word, or a command which the horse follows. You can see these are individual syllables if you reverse the order and instead say “get-tar”. That is, if I go down the same line and bend the horse with my rein first (get) and then use my inside leg pressure (tar) the horse will actually do a shoulder-in (I am supersimplifying here). The same two syllables in a different order will make a different command, just as we find in any language. The concept that these pressures, in different areas on the horse are syllables allow a rider to build a whole “vocabulary”. The shoulder-in and counter shoulder-in are probably the most basic of the lateral movements for the beginner. They are however, a bit more complicated than my description above. These are also some of the most useful since they directly aid in getting the inside and outside hind legs of the horse towards the centerline and helps to control one of the two parts of the horse you can “move”. In the shoulder-in, the hind legs will move forward along the line of travel while the front legs will move laterally, with the inside foreleg crossing in front of the outside foreleg (outside being towards the wall). The horse will be moving on three tracks. One track is the outside hind, the second is the inside hind and outside foreleg and the third is the inside foreleg. This is how this exercise aids in collection, in that you are specifically asking the horse to bring the inside hind under
itself. Here your shoulders should be going with the direction of the horses’ shoulders, the outside shoulder ahead of the inside. The rider’s head should be focused on the direction you are going, in this case straight ahead. Don’t over-bend your horse’s head, that’s a common mistake.
The counter shoulder-in will most likely be a bit easier for the beginner since you can use the fence line as an aid, although in theory you shouldn’t. As the name implies this exercise is the
counter of the shoulder-in, the head is going towards the wall. Everything is the same, including the travel on three tracks. The riders shoulders should be with the horses’ with the rider’s head looking straight ahead. All this shoulder and head positioning may seem to some rather strange but realize that these parts are connected to the rest of your body. Try this: stand on the ground with your feet shoulder-width apart. Now twist your torso at your waist to the right, allow your legs to relax and go where they want. You’ll find that your left leg moves forward and to the right, your left leg moves back and to the left. Think about that same twisting movement on the horse, pressuring the rib and the shoulders. That’s riding with your body and letting your reins supplement!
click on the video image below to view Jamie demonstrating these two maneuvers for Gaited Canada!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDrQXKpnyZk
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practicality: noun Definition: concern with actual use Synonyms: common sense, horse sense
Introduction to gait The mechanics of gait Conformation of gait Show gait vs trail gait Suppling to improve gait Bits and head gear Trimming and shoeing for natural angles and smooth gait Trail and obstacle training
Combining natural horsemanship and traditional breed training methods, Stefanie forms a connection built on confidence and cooperation, developing a safe, sane and sound pleasure horse. Throughout the process of building skills and confidence, Stefanie works on defining and honing the natural gait of each horse. Understanding the mechanics of gait, the individual horse's ability, conformation and genetics are all taken in to consideration
Trademark Farms Darden, TN 38328 toll free 1-877-801-7276 cell 731-845-5752 email info@pintopaso.com
NEW!! Now you have access to a professional farrier!
Gaited Canada Subscriptions Digital magazine on CD delivered to your door. view magazine on your computer No internet connection required to $35.00 shipping included
Gaited Canada is pleased to announce that Bob Goudreault is available to answer your questions concerning hoof health, trimming and shoeing. A graduate of the Olds College Farrier Science program and farrier for over 25 years, Bob has experience in many aspects of the horse world. From the racing horses, polo horses, performance horses, ranch horses and gaited horses.
Full color, full gloss printed magazine delivered to your door. Print issues available 2 weeks after digital online issues. $55.00 shipping included Paypal and credit cards accepted email editor@gaited.ca for invoice and payment instructions
Submit your questions to editor@gaited.ca
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In 2009, while still grieving over the loss of my stepdaughter to breast cancer, I stumbled across an interesting website about an incredible horseback ride across Alberta: 400 miles in 22 days. It was Jane Hurl’s Wild Pink Yonder. To this day I can’t remember how I found it; I like to think of it as divine intervention. To me, this was a Godsend, a way to honour my stepdaughter, help fight this dreadful disease -- and the bonus was that I could do it while enjoying my favourite pastime, horseback riding. I knew getting my horse to Alberta was impossible so I sent off an email to Jane asking if she’d consider bringing her Wild Pink trail ride to Manitoba. Quick as a wink I got back a reply saying yes, it could be done. And then this woman went on about how we could do it, and the work we would have to do. You get the picture. Apparently she’d mistaken my interest in riding for an interest in organizing! I am not a leader; I’m the poster child for follower! Never organized a thing in my life and never wanted to. Love being in the background. No lime light for me! Well, here was this woman I’d never met telling me that she’d bring Wild Pink Yonder to Manitoba if I’d do the work. *gulp* Over the next few hours I couldn’t get my mind off “the ride”. My thoughts started drifting to, “Could I do this?” and a little voice (I like to attribute this to
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my stepdaughter) kept saying, “Yes, you can. Just decide that you’re going to do it and do it!” So, my next email to Jane was, “Ok, I’m in. How do I start?” Many times over the next weeks my courage waned and I was tempted to email and decline. Each time I was about to do that I’d get an email from Jane telling me how happy they were to have found me, or how thrilled she was to have Wild Pink Yonder expanding in just their first year! Then I found out Jane was writing to me from the hospital! She had had an horrendous accident while conditioning her team of Norwegian Fjord horses for the ride and would be spending three months in a rehab hospital with 5 broken bones in her spine, 3 breaks in her right hip and a broken left leg! She was in a full body cast and only allowed out of bed if they shifted her from the bed into a wheelchair and this
woman was already planning the next year’s ride! There was no way I could back out after learning that! This has been, and continues to be, a very scary journey for me. I’ve done so many things that I would never have dreamed I could ever do. Camping on a mountaintop in Alberta! Yikes, there are bears out there! Oh, and driving through Calgary! Are you kidding me? Did I really do that? Yes, I did! A year and a half later, here we are, in
the midst of plans and meetings and all the excitement of bringing Wild Pink Yonder to Manitoba. Now my challenge is calling total strangers on the phone and asking them to find space in their towns for up to 30 horses, 40 people and all their vehicles. Oh, and we’d like you to feed us and our horses -- not one but two meals, plus pack a lunch for us, please! This wall-flower is now going to meetings to get towns excited about raising money for breast cancer research, planning parades in our honour and, quite literally, turning their towns pink in an effort to win a music concert (that I have to find and hire). This shrinking violet is asking small businesses and huge corporations for their hard earned money! Each step makes me prouder of myself than I’ve ever been before. Imagine, nine months from now I will be sitting on my horse leading a group of people on an unforgettable ride through Manitoba and maybe, just maybe, the money we raise will provide the funding needed to discover a cure for breast cancer. You never know, and wouldn’t it be ... be ... I can’t even think of a
word to describe how elated I would be. Come with me. Join Jane, Rusty and me on the ride of a lifetime here in Manitoba -- a ride to end breast cancer forever. You don’t have to come for the whole thing. You can ride for a day, a weekend or a week -- or you can follow my lead. Throw caution to the wind and join me for the whole, glorious 22 days! Wild Pink Yonder (Manitoba). It’s going to be legendary.
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You can find the word “extreme” proceeding any number of equine activities these days. Most of these events are based on obstacles, maneuvers, and time limits and are “judged”. Most incorporate natural horsemanship and competition in a more casual atmosphere than breed shows or breed based disciplines. These events are open to all ages and levels of riders and any breed of horse at all stages of training.
National competitions are of course more demanding than some local and regional events. The opportunity to improve and participate at higher levels of competition are available in many organizations.
From Extreme Cowboy Races, to arena obstacle challenges and everything in between, these events are represented by local, regional and national associations and clubs across North America. So how extreme is EXTREME? This is very subjective, with events often based on the level the participants are comfortable with.
Silent Poco Sunay, better known as Winston owners Mike and Stacey McCoy
What type of obstacles will I encounter? Each club or association has a long list of obstacles that you may encounter at any event; bridges, water crossings, gate opening, jumps, hill climbs, object drags and scary curtains of ropes, tarps or vines are common in many competitions. What kind of maneuvers will I encounter? You may be asked to have your horse perform a turn on the forehand or haunches, side pass,
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David Thompson on Henry
directional backing, trot (intermediate gait) or serpentine to name a few standard maneuvers.
way of equipment and do not require judges to be highly trained and certified. General horsemanship knowledge is normally all that is required to judge obstacle and maneuver negotiation. If you think this is a sport for you, check out some of the national associations and see if there is a region with events close to you - if not, maybe the local horse club could host sanctioned events!
performing a turn on the fore-hand (stepping out of the box is a score deduction
What are some of the benefits of joining a club or association? These events are great for the whole family, generally offering multiple divisions for age or experience of rider. It is a great way to get out and participate in an equine event that is open to such a wide variety of participants. National organizations (and their respective regions) offer high point awards, cash prizes, and titles that are not only fun and exciting to win, but can increase the value of your horse (lifetime point awards for horses). Placing well in competitions may increase your farm’s (and training) reputation as well bring recognition to specific bloodlines and/or breeding programs that have consistent placings. As with any equine discipline, the more you practice and participate, the better you become. If you don't have a club or association for these events in your area, you local saddle club can organize one as a jackpot event or hold more than one per year and have high point awards. They are easy to organize, require very little in the
Extreme Cowboy Association. Extreme is part of the original name used for the first televised event. The word, "Extreme" also acknowledges that our event is directly associated with Craig Cameron who originated the sport as we know it and is founder of the Extreme Cowboy Association. The vast majority of the obstacles that you will encounter in a sanctioned EXCA event are things you will routinely encounter while on a trail ride or daily work on a ranch. www.extremecowboyassociation.com National Competitive Trail Horse Association The founders of the Supreme Trail Challenge and Texas Trail Challenge merged in 2008 to form the
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National Competitive Trail Horse Association to be the sanctioning and record keeping organization for STC and TTC rides. As most NCTHA members also compete in endurance and other competitive trail venues, www.supremetrailchallenge.com Ontario Competitive Trail Riding Assoc. While Endurance rides in all area of Canada and the United States are sanctioned by the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC), competitive trail is most often sanctioned and governed by there various national and provincial organizations such as OCTRA. A competitive trail ride is shorter than an endurance ride, they are usually 25 to 40 miles and multi-day rides can amount to over a 100 miles in 3 days. Competitive trail is more strategic in some ways compared to Endurance – you must ride within a minimum and maximum time – It is the best conditioned horse ‘fit to continue’ that wins not necessarily the fastest. www.octra.on.ca
American Competitive Trail Horse Assoc. 6 miles 6 obstacles 6 judges Our mission... To create an enjoyable venue showcasing the wonderful attributes of the great American trail horse and granting them the recognition they so richly deserve. To create a registry open to all breeds and a point designation system which will stay with each horse for its lifetime, thereby adding to their value and distinction. To create and enable humane treatment options for horses in need. www.actha.us NATRC (North American Trail Ride Conference) a sport that partners horse and rider as a team. Competitors find that the sport is not only fun for the rider, but for most horses as well. Both thoroughly enjoy riding new trails, looking forward to what is around the next bend, enjoying new scenery, and new tasty trail-side snacks. Camp is a cozy neighborhood filled with people who find it perfectly natural to constantly talk about horses. You will find that experienced competitors are extremely willing to give newbies tips and point out things that could help them on the ride. www.natrc.org American Trail Trial-Horsemen's Association (ATTA) is an association that promotes the sports of horseback trail riding and trail trial riding and provides education, recognition and awards programs for riders and horses. ATTA IS THE ORIGINAL NATIONAL TRAIL TRIALS ASSOCIATION. Trial trial rides traditionally include trail obstacles for novice, intermediate, and advanced horseback riders and horses and also include noncompetative riders. Non-members are welcome on all ATTA trail trial rides. www.attatrailtrials.com
Khamaal, at the Double Horn Race in Bluff Dale, Texas
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The British Columbia Competitive Trail Riders Associations ( BCCTRA) promotes and enhances the sport of competitive trail riding within British Columbia by providing education, training and competition for all levels of equestrians. Although a competitive trail riding (CTR) is not a race, both the timing and pacing of your horse is crucial to succeeding in these events. www.bcctra.ca
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ankle. If the zipper was at the back of my leg I don't think it would have happened. My feet still got cold when it was around -20. Toe warmers made a big difference and kept my feet warm. I received a replacement pair of boots that are a different style. I haven't noticed much difference between the two. These boots were much easier to break in. The zipper is on the back of my leg. The seem to work about the same at the different temperatures. I still like to wear toe warmers on the cold days. Mountain Horse Active Winter High Rider The Active Winter Rider features a warm and cozy faux fur lining and is destined to become one of our best-selling winter riding boots! Sleek and sturdy, the Active will keep your feet warm and comfortable, even in the harshest conditions. The faux leather foot part is 100% Waterproof and has been tested to withstand One Million Flexes in -10°C weather. • Rugged Duralon™ upper resists wear and tear • HYDRO-TX™ membrane for waterproof protection up to the bottom of the zipper • Thermal insulating faux fur lining keeps legs and feet warm • Strong and durable side-fitted YKK® zipper • Durable elastic side gusset for a sleek & customized fit through the calf • Reflective inserts on back counter for improved nighttime visibility • Removable, ergonomically designed EVA insole with soft Nylex lining • Built-in steel shank for improved stability while walking or riding • Dirt-shedding tread with enhanced grip zones for added security on the ground & in the irons • Shock-absorbing IPS system in heel for allday comfort Ladies Sizes: 6-10 Regular or Wide Calf Black only. 150439...$219.95 Overall the boots worked well. I liked that the zipper was more to the side of my leg not on the back. It was much easier to zip them up. That being said I think the zipper on the side caused a problem. The zipper ended up breaking at my
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Nicole
Our readers review 3 styles of winter riding boots over the next 3 issues of Gaited Canada Ariat® Women’s Bromont Tall H2O Insulated Style# 10004059 MSRP $279.95 (US dollars) Description: Traditional field boot styling without the excess bulk - ideal for competition during inclement weather. Product details: ·Waterproof full grain leather ·Waterproof membrane ·Primaloft® insulation ·Dri-lex® plaid lining ·Full length back zipper ·Stretch leather back panel ·Traditional filed boot styling ·Duratread™ outsole So, here we are, with any luck, suffering through that final vestiges of winter and I must say that I really love my boots still getting compliments! They have held up to the worst that old man winter had to offer and my feet remained comfy and warm throughout. By January and February most of my riding was indoors with the odd hack through the snow however, if it was not too cold to ride, the boots did their job and kept my feet warm and dry. The best part, they have actually become more comfortable with use and certainly easier to walk in. The zipper is still working smoothly and with a good cleaning they are ready for a show. I especially like the feel I get through the suede insert on the inside of the calf, great for giving aids to the even the most sensitive horse. Soon, I will be putting them away in lieu of my summer boots but they are certainly ready for another few winters and have obviously been built to last. I would definitely recommend these boots to my clients that ride throughout the winter months. Val
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The freedom to get filthy and the pleasure of finding them clean and dry, ready for another jaunt into the goo, gunk and sludge of bad weather and dirty jobs. A 100% waterproof four way stretch inner bootie reduces friction points while hand laid layers of waterproof natural rubber keep you absolutely dry and comfortable in the most uncomfortable of conditions. Bogs' slip-on perfect fit doesn't need breaking in and we static cold test all of our boots to ensure that you'll be warm and cozy even in sub-zero temperatures. The tread of the non-slip sole is designed to kick away dirt so that you always have excellent traction. Perforated insole provides shock absorption and vapor reduction. FEATURING 100% Waterproof Natural hand-lasted rubber over a four way stretch inner bootie Non-slip, non-marking and self-cleaning outsole Aegis anti-microbial odor protection insole Comfort rated from temperate to -40째F or sub-zero conditions $117.00 HEIGHT: 17in PRODUCT SIZES: 6-11
Karen Carter-Miller replacement reviewer 150 Mile House BC I own Quarter Horses, Kentucky Natural and Saddlebreds. We are a full service training and boarding facility with 45 horses in our care. I spend approximately 9 hours with the horses each day. The boots are heavier than I had expected, making extra work of walking until I became conditioned to wearing them. I found they didn't bend at the front of the ankle, the lack of flexibility added leg strain for the first couple of weeks. Definitely a heavyweight boot. But that said, these boots kept my feet warm during lessons (standing for 3 or mor hours), chores (1.5 hours twice daily) and riding (2+ hours per day) in
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all but the coldest of days in our area (central BC). Temperatures varied from +3 to -17 while I have had these boots. My work load, however does not change so they have been a welcome footwear solution. I especially like the complete water proof and dirt proof durability when dealing with mud and rain NO MORE wet feet (yay). The traction is sufficient for mud, snow and ice and the soft top is comfortable on my larger calf muscles. The boots fit well in both english and western stirrups, but did diminish communication with the horse compared to a softer leather tall boot, but was a small price to pay for riding warmth and comfort. I recommend these boots for wet winter conditions and cool to moderately cold temperatures.
with Marcie Morey What is the difference between all the gaits that gaited horses can perform? You've heard all kinds of names for gaits such as: running walk, pace, amble, stepping pace or pacey, saddle gait, rack, fox trot, tolt, fino, corto, largo..... to name a few. The answer may surprise you. The simple truth is that the only difference between all lateral, 4-beat gaits is the timing. There is really no such thing as “different” gaits. It is all the SAME footfall, just different timing and rhythm of the footfall. Do you know what the footfall of a walk is? Trivia time! This goes for every horse on the planet. The true walk is a lateral, independent 4-beat gait. So, one side goes and then the other. Ex: Left hind, left front, right hind, right front. Keep saying this over and over. When you ride, try to feel which hoof is landing when and chant to the rhythm. Make sure you start counting from the rear. Rear is #1 and #3. Fronts are #2 and #4. Only one foot at a time is hitting the ground. On a gaited horse, speed this footfall up and you have a gait! If your horse is not gaiting the way you like, it may just be a matter of changing the rhythm or timing of the footfall. The question is how do you change the timing? I'll show you when I come up there for a clinic :) (Just kidding....no really, I'm thinking August??) Of course, the horse has to make those step beats closer together when he speeds up from the walk. If you 'walk-him-up-into' a gait from a big walk, he can only go so fast with perfectly independent steps before he will want to trot so be careful with that. On a pacey horse, that's the thing to do. But on a trotty horse, it is the WRONG thing to do. On a trotty one, you have to ask him to go ahead and gait with a shorter stride right away, almost in place. Speed can come later with that one, once he's got the motor and muscle memory to keep it correct and consistent.
www.marciemorey.com I shared some of this answer in the previous issue of Gaited Cananda. It is usually a matter of engagement of the hind quarters, or changing the frame of the horse's way of going. Perhaps slowing down, perhaps speeding up and perhaps a combination of all the above. Answers on paper however are very general and every horse has a custom need. It depends on whether you're riding for show or strictly for pleasure. For showing purposes you would want to perform a gait according to what that breed registry and/or class is looking for. So you would need to get familiar with the breed/class requirements. For pleasure purposes, I like to keep it simple and allow the horse to be as natural as possible as long as the gait is smooth for you. By “allow”, I simply mean, to interfere with nature as little as possible. This is all a horse-by-horse case, of course. You still use the same concepts whether you're showing or not. It's just the ultimate goal that may be different for each case.
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...simply breathtaking
Horseback Riding in EC Manning Provincial Park. It doesn’t get much better than this!! Horses are allowed on designated trails only, but this will not limit your riding experience. The magnificent scenery, awesome trails and breath taking experiences all await you on the equestrian designated trails. The Park is so well managed, with resources and information that make your trail riding get away an amazing experience. Camping is available, and again only in designated areas. The Horse camps are available at Dewdney and Hope Pass trails.
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Visitors are requested to carry backpacking stoves and not have open fires. Unless otherwise noted on the trail description all horse camps include a toilet, fire ring, water, hitching rail and grazing. So what are we waiting for, lets get to the trail information!! Monument 83 Trail Rating: Moderate Length: 16 km one way Time: 5 hours Start of Trail: Monument 78/83 parking lot. From the parking lot the fire access road remains level for the first 3 km. After crossing the first bridge, which spans the
Similkameen River. At this point you can take a short side trip to Boyd's Meadow by taking the left fork, or stay to your right and soon after crossing the Similkameen River the trail crosses the Chuwanten River. From this point keep to the left at all branches. As you will immediately see the trail starts to climb as soon as you cross over the bridge. The ascent is moderate and climbs steadily over the next 12 km. At 14 km the Centennial Trail which goes to Cathedral Lakes cuts off to the left. The last kilometre is more strenuous, but handled by horses with even light conditioning. Once you are
there, it is enjoyable and a nice spot for lunch on a sunny day. The summit of Monument 83 stands above the timberline at 1980 m and is the location of an old 1920's B.C. Forest Service fire lookout station. This old lookout is open and offers shelter when the weather is poor. There is also a more recent fire lookout on the American side of the border built by the U.S. Forest Service in the 1960's. This is seldom used now as most fire spotting is through aerial surveillance. One unusual feature of this area is the presence of a rockcovered grave. The carved wooden headstone bears the inscription: "Pasayten Pete, shot by L.E. Lael, 26.8.61". Mystery surrounds the grave: does it contain the body of a loyal horse, a drunken rum runner, or a two-faced prospector? Nobody knows for sure! From Monument 83 the trail leaves the park, crosses the international border and enters the Pasayten Wilderness Area of the United States. Dewdney Trail Rating: moderate Length: 36km one way Elevation Change: 1131 metres Time: 14-16 hours hike or 2 days by horseback Definitions: Wilderness camp - unless otherwise noted includes toilet, fire ring and water; no horses allowed Horse camp - unless otherwise noted includes toilet, fire ring, water, hitching rail and grazing The trail commences at the Cascade Recreation Area parking lot located 12 km east of the west entrance to the park and ends at Dick's cabin on the Whipsaw Road. The Cascade
Recreation Area parking lot consists of a 20 vehicle parking area, 2 pit toilets and 3 hitching rails. From the parking lot follow the west side of Snass Creek in a northerly direction. At 2.5km you will reach the turn off point for the Whatcom Trail to the east, and at 3.5km, from the parking lot, you will arrive at Dry Lake. This lake fills only during spring freshet and dries up by early to mid July. From
Forest Service fire lookout station
Dry Lake it is a steady 12.5km climb following a valley to Paradise Valley. If you look high up on the mountainsides you might be lucky to spot a Grizzly Bear or Mountain Goat. As you near the top end of the canyon, water your horses, as there is limited water at Snass View Camp. At this point you leave Manning Park and enters the Cascade Recreation Area. Snass View wilderness camp is located at the Whatcom Trail junction, which is also the west end of Paradise Valley. From the Snass View camp the trail leaves in a northwesterly direction going 1km to yet another
junction. The left fork or Warburton Trail is a 6km loop trail ending at the Tulameen horse camp. Warburton horse camp is located 3km from Snass View camp. Another 3km down the trail brings you to the Tulameen horse camp. Approximately 2km from camp the Tulameen River is crossed and the trail follows Hubbard Creek for 6km where there is a very nice open meadow and Hubbard Creek camp. Four km east of the horse camp is Paddy's Pond, which is also a good source of water. From this point you can either turn north, and travel to Coalmont (approximately 30km), or continue east a further 6km to Dick's Cabin. The cabin is at an elevation of 1900m. with lots of subalpine flowers and very picturesque views. From Dick's cabin you can return the way you came or via the Hope Pass Trail or continue in an easterly direction along Whipsaw Creek on a logging road.
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Hope Pass Trail Rating: easy to moderate hiking trail Length: 23.5 km one way Time: 10 hours Wilderness Site: Horse camp unless otherwise noted includes toilet, fire ring, water, hitching rail and grazing The trail begins at Cayuse Flats parking lot, 17km east of the west portal and ends at Dick's Cabin. Cayuse Flats has 2 pit toilets, parking for 20 vehicles and 3 hitching rails. After leaving the parking lot you will follow the Skaist River in a northerly direction. At approximately 6km the trail crosses Grainger Creek where Grainger Creek horse camp is located (There is no grazing available at this horse camp). Continuing along the Skaist River the Hope Pass Trail goes through some fairly heavy timber and crosses various creeks. Water is plentiful on this trail year round. Km 19 brings you to a viewpoint as well as hitching rails and benches. Marmot City is located just below Hope Pass and is the location of yet another horse camp (Marmot City horse camp). This camp has limited water and feed during the later part of a hot summer. From Marmot City you can travel north a further 1.5km to Dick's Cabin or continue in an easterly direction along the Hope Pass Trail and down Whipsaw Creek on a 24km logging road. From Dick's Cabin you can return the way you came or follow the Dewdney Trail west to the Cascade Recreation parking lot via Paradise Valley, a distance of 36km, and then take the
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Skagit Bluff Trail to Cayuse Flats. The Skagit Bluff Trail is 5.6km.
on the Hope Pass Trail
Poland Lake Trail Rating: fairly strenuous Length: 16 km return (to the lake) Time: 5 to 6 hours Start of Trail: Strawberry Flats parking lot Best Time to Go: Late June to early October Wilderness Site: Northwest end of Poland Lake The trail starts at the gate on the Gibson Pass road. For the most part the trail is a fire access road. The trail is level for about .5 km and then gradually starts to climb. At .8km there is a creek, but the remainder of the hike to the lake will be dry. The trail gradually veers away from Gibson Pass Road and climbs more steeply to the ski hill. Once you reach the ski run area (just before the orange chair) those on horseback stay to the right keeping on the fire access road which makes several switch backs and comes out at the top of the orange chair then continues to the 4.5 km. Hiking Route: After crossing under the orange chair, you will come to the start of the switchbacks and a trail sign (2.5
km). Looking to the south, while you are crossing over to these switchbacks, you will have a good view of Nepopekum Falls. These falls are quite spectacular in the late spring and early summer during the run-off of melting snow. Step over the creek bed, which is dry in the summer but full of water in spring and early summer, to begin the most strenuous part of the climb. As you reach the 3 km mark, the trail leads into an extensive forest burn area. During the mid 1940's a number of fires occurred in manning Park. The results of these burn areas are usually spectacular displays of wildflower meadows and a luxuriant growth of berry shrubs. The switchbacks eventually take you north and west almost to the top of the ski hill (4 km). A further .5 km will bring you out along the Horseshoe run of the orange chair. The trail levels out here and maintains gentle rolling ascents and descents. Once you cross over the ski run you leave the ski hill area. There is an area map signposted here (4.5 km).
The Poland Lake Trail
Skagit Bluffs Trail Rating: moderate Length: 5.6 km one way Time: 2 hours Best Time to Go: June to October (Red Rhododendrons bloom mid-June) Start of Trail: Cascade Recreation Area parking lot (12 km east of the west portal to the park OR Cayuse Flats parking lot (17 km east of the west portal or 25 km west of the Visitor Centre). The Skagit Bluffs Trail parallels the Hope-Princeton Highway between the Cascade Recreation Area parking lot and Cayuse Flats parking lot. As the trail rises above the road riders are rewarded with occasional good views. Little traffic noise is heard as the trail climbs and heads deeper into the forest on a trail that is often softly padded with needles from the trees towering overhead. For a good stretch of this trail you will actually be hiking along the old Dewdney Trail which is part of, or parallel to, today’s Hope Princeton Highway. The elevation gain begins almost immediately. For the first 10 minutes the trail skirts along and gradually rises above the highway. You will soon begin to notice an abundance of Red Rhododendrons. The trail levels out for about 100 m and then starts to climb. A further 15 minutes of uphill will bring you to a rock slide area. This scree area continues for a few hundred metres. After this the trail descends for a brief minute break and then starts a brief and easy uphill climb (30-35 minutes from the trail head). Continuing along, the trail starts
to descend and brings you to three creeks, all within a few hundred meters. Atleast two of these will have ample water throughout the year. You then begin a slight ascent which gradually becomes more strenuous but only for a short time and then begins to descend to a fairly strong large creek which is a good supply of water (about 45-50 minutes along the trail). This creek is not bridged so caution must be used in crossing it. At this point the trail is rolling along up and down, About 1 hour into the trail you will notice it widens. You are now riding along the historic Dewdney Trail section which is part of the Skagit Bluffs Trail. Within 5 minutes you will reach a viewpoint which is a good spot to take a break or stop for lunch. A further 5 minutes along the trail will bring you to a second viewpoint, much like the first. In the autumn this trail provides a wonderful blend of colours from golds and greens to orange and crimson with vine maple scattered along most of it. After leaving the second viewpoint the trail gradually descends. Here you reach the 4th creek (1 m across) and it also should have plenty of water throughout the summer. There
is no bridge here cross carefully. Continuing along, (90 minutes in to the trail) the trail ascends briefly and the 5th creek is reached within a few minutes. It is a large, dry creek bed in summer but full in the spring. There is no difficulty crossing it later in the season. A section of creek and mud (2 m across) is reached about 6-7 minutes later. This is a naturally damp area and can be expected to be moist, wet or muddy year round. You will notice different plant life along this portion of the trail which is due to the more damp nature of the geography and presents a good opportunity to look at mosses, ferns and lichen. Windy Joe Trail Rating: moderate to strenuous Length: 8 km one way Time: 2.5 hours Best Time to Go: JuneSeptember Start of Trail: Similkameen(WindyJoe/Pct) Trail Parking Lot The trail begins at the Windy Joe/PCT/Canyon Nature Trailhead, located 1 km off Hwy 3 on the Gibson Pass (Lightning Lake) road. It heads southeast along the Similkameen trail for just over 2 km before intersecting the
The summit of Windy Joe Trail
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Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana? )
Windy Joe trail. As you travel along the first part of the trail, keep your eyes open for birds. Many species can be seen along here. The trail, which begins its climb here, is an old access road that was previously used to transport people and goods to the fire lookout at the summit. At approximately 3.5 km Lichen use Wolf e tr r you will cross a small a h below C stream, which is a good spot to stop for a rest and water the stock. Notice how the creek supplies plants, such as mosses and horsetails, with the large amounts of moisture that they need to survive. On the ground, watch for the large cones of Western White Pine, and small tufts of brilliant Chartreuse Wolf Lichen growing on the trees. A few minutes after passing a second creek you will get your first view of Frosty Mountain, the highest peak in the park. Another 5.5 km, and as indicated by a sign, the left fork continues on to the top of Windy Joe.
NEWS! In the fall of 2010, three Lower Mainland Chapters of the Back Country Horsemen Society of BC teamed up with BC Parks and Manning Park Resort to begin construction of the Manning Park Horse Camp. The campsite will be located on the road to the Gibson Pass ski hill at the old Trail Riding Stables site behind the lodge, . From this campsite there is access to the gorgeous trails in the Park. After a day (or more) on the trails, you can take advantage of the close-by amenities include hot showers, hot tubs, pool, steam and exercise rooms. For a night out take in the restaurant or stop by the pub.
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Located in the heart of the Cascade Mountains it is within a three hour drive from either the Lower Mainland (Vancouver) or the Okanagan. The climate and geography have combined to make this park an all season recreation area. The park contains a large number of scenic, historic, floral and fauna attractions and provides a wide range of both summer and winter recreational opportunities The Park and surrounding area is rich in history; from native occupation, to the gold rush of the mid 1800s to homesteading of ranchers and farmers in the early 1920s. All of this has made Manning Park one of the premier spots for modern day exploration (tourism) and recreation. For more information Manning Park Resort at 250-840-8822 park website
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All Gaited Breed clubs
Tennessee Walking Horse
BC Gaited Horses www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=116811951701620 Gaited Horse Group of Ontario info1@gaitedhorsegroup.com
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American Saddlebred Horse Association of Canada info@saddlebredcanada.com ASHA Alberta rmacleo1@planet.eon.net
Icelandic Horse Canadian Icelandic Horse Federation Ontario susanandsteve@sympatico.ca Ontario Icelandic Horse Association Icerider@bell.net
Kentucky Natural Gaited Horses Registration inspection Saskatchewan contemporaryequine@gmail.com
Missouri Foxtrotter Missouri Fox Trotter Club of Canada westwinds@sasktel.net
Paso Fino Central Canadian Paso Fino Horse association Ontario(region of American association) finavistafarm@hotmail Paso Fino Owners & Breeders Club of Canada PFOBCC@pasofinoownersandbreedersclub.ca
Peruvian Paso Peruvian Horse Association of Canada Alberta gusmccollister@efirehose.net Peruvian Horse Club of Alberta chantelle.sawatzky@gmail.com Peruvian Horse Club of BC 4beat@telus.net Ontario Peruvian Horse Association rembab@talkwireless.ca Peruvian Enthusiasts and Recreational Riders Unlimited malsbury@telus.net
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Jamie Drizin comes to Gaited Canada!! Jamie Drizin has had a fascination and love for the horse since he was young. While living in the Dominican Republic he discovered the Paso Fino and soon created the Hacienda del Sol ranch dedicated to the breeding and training of the Paso Fino and other smooth gaited horses. He has had the opportunity to work with and learn from fine horsemen such as Clay Harper and John Lyons. With his wife Marie, Jamie runs Hacienda del Sol Equitation which seeks to apply balance and lightness to all smooth gaited horses. Most recently, Jamie is producing a series of training videos for Nutrena Feeds. The first video in the series can be seen here (click to go to video) please address your training questions for Jamie to editor@gaited.ca
Jamie will be the feature trainer for Gaited Canada’s Trainer Q&A segment
email your questions to editor@gaited.ca
www.kamloopssaddlery.com
products from the best quality trees and materials. Paying special attention to detail from construction to finished product.
Bob with a custom saddle in progress
Bob Goudreault comes from a cattle and horse farm near Edmonton, Alberta. Upon completing high school, Bob went to Edmonton Northlands race track. It was there, racing Standardbred horses that hooked Bob in the horse business. Shortly after that, Bob attended, and graduated from the Olds College Farrier Science programand returned to the race track (Calgary Stampede), where he started a 25 year venture in the Farrier business. Serving the horse industry in the Calgary area brought experience in many areas of the horse world. From the racing horses, polo horses, performance horses, ranch horses to gaited horses. In 1989 Bob attended the Olds College saddle making program for two years. Under the direction of Ken Cameron, a veteran saddle maker from Red deer Alberta. Armed with a fresh passion for the horse industry Bob moved to Merritt BC the winter of 1991 to work under saddle maker Andy Knight along with co-worker John Vissor at Knight's Western Emporium. If you ask, he will say he has been very fortunate to have worked with some of the finest craftsman in the business over the years. In 1993 Bob moved to Kamloops BC and started Kamloops Saddlery. He and wife Rebecca Live on an acreage east of Kamloops. The shop, where the saddles and horse gear are created is located on the property. You will find fine quality custom ranch saddles, endurance saddles and pleasure use saddles along with custom chaps and chinks and other horse gear. Bob is devoted to making the finest quality
All saddles are made by hand, one at a time. Each saddle is custom made to the customer’s request. With the greatest of care and attention to detail. Using only the best quality materials. US skirting, hand made trees, real sheep skins and great quality hardware. The endurance saddles we make are fitted with foam pads and attached with velcro. Each saddle made comes with foam shimes and wedges (also
attached and held in place by velcro) giving you the advantage to change the shape to fit the profile of your horse’s back. Additional foam pads and skimes are available upon request.
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Kentucky Natural Gaited Horses
Peruvian Paso
Contemporary Equine Saskatoon, Saskatchewan contemporaryequine@gmail.com
Foxcreek Homestead Meath Park, SK 306 929 2350 foxcreek@inet2000.com
Paso Fino Artworks Paso Finos Ottawa, Ontario (613) 646-2890 info@artworkspasofinos.com
Lone Pine Peruvians Tanya or Dan Mckee Clyde, Alberta T0G 0P0 780-348-5503 herford1@telus.net
Contemporary Equine Saskatoon, Saskatchewan contemporaryequine@gmail.com
Silver Cloud Peruvians Princeton, BC (250) 295-6480 lremme@xplornet.com
Circle L Paso Finos Fort Saint John, BC 250-785-5318 clpasos@telus.net
Rocky Mountain Horse
Cree Valley Paso Finos Westlock, Alberta 780-349-8558 creevalley@hotmail.com Toddler & Rider Paso Finos Florida 305-242-1444 info@trpasos.com
Gaited Meadows British Columbia (250) 679-3881 info@gaitedmeadows.com
Tennessee Walking Horse Laurindale Stables Drayton Valley, Alberta 780-515-0216 laurindaletwh@yahoo.ca
[Biru Azul (Black) X Huracona SGR (Liver Chestnut)] With only 2 shows under his belt he finished both shows with Reserve Champion Pleasure Stallion. With temperament second to none, he is my new trail companion with or without other horses. He is strong, decently gaited and smooth.
_____________________ 2004 Mahogany Bay 14.1 HH $750 stud fee plus $5 per day mare care.
Lone Pine Peruvians Tanya or Dan Mckee Box 182 Clyde, Alberta T0G 0P0 780-348-5503 herford1@telus.net Specializing in Pleasure/Performance/Trail Peruvians
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